China and Pakistan's Five-Point Proposal for Restoring Peace and Stability in the Gulf and Middle East Regions

Xinhua News Agency Beijing, March 31 — China and Pakistan’s Five-Point Initiative for Restoring Peace and Stability in the Gulf and Middle East Regions

(北京, March 31, 2026)

On March 31, 2026, Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister, held talks with Darel, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, in Beijing. The two sides exchanged views on the situation in the Gulf and Middle East regions and proposed the following initiatives:

1. Immediately cease hostilities. China and Pakistan call for an immediate ceasefire and an end to fighting, making every effort to prevent the conflict from spreading. Humanitarian aid supplies should be allowed into all areas affected by the war.

2. Quickly initiate peace talks. The sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence, and security of Iran and Gulf countries should be maintained. Dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable ways to resolve conflicts. China and Pakistan support the parties involved to start negotiations, and all parties should commit to resolving disputes peacefully. During the negotiations, conflicting parties should not use or threaten to use force.

3. Ensure the safety of non-military targets. The principle of protecting civilians in military conflicts must not be broken. China and Pakistan call on all parties to immediately stop attacks on civilians and non-military targets, fully comply with international humanitarian law, and cease attacks on critical infrastructure such as energy, seawater desalination, electricity, and nuclear facilities, including peaceful nuclear sites.

4. Ensure the safety of shipping lanes. The Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters are vital international trade routes for goods and energy. China and Pakistan urge all parties to protect the safety of ships and crew stranded within the Strait of Hormuz, arrange for commercial vessels to pass safely as soon as possible, and restore normal navigation through the strait.

5. Ensure the primacy of the United Nations Charter. China and Pakistan advocate practicing true multilateralism, jointly promoting the strengthening of the important role of the United Nations, and supporting the establishment of a comprehensive peace framework and the achievement of lasting peace based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law. (End)