BEIJING: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has expressed appreciation for China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity during his ongoing official visit to Beijing.
According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office on Tuesday, Dar met with Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC), to discuss regional stability following the recent escalation between Pakistan and India.
During the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties between the CPC and Pakistan’s political parties. Liu reiterated that China, as an “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partner” and “ironclad friend,” will continue to prioritize its relations with Pakistan.
Dar arrived in Beijing on a three-day official visit at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in South Asia, following a ceasefire between Pakistan and India after a military standoff triggered by the Pahalgam attack in Occupied Kashmir — which India alleged, without evidence, was backed by Pakistan.
On May 6–7, Indian air strikes in Punjab and Azad Kashmir resulted in civilian casualties, prompting Islamabad to respond by downing five Indian jets. Subsequent drone interceptions and airbase strikes escalated the conflict until U.S. mediation on May 10 led to a ceasefire. While India has maintained an aggressive stance, Pakistan has called for dialogue and warned against further escalation.
During his visit, Dar is scheduled to hold in-depth discussions with the Chinese leadership on regional peace and the broader implications for South Asia’s stability. The two sides will also review the full range of bilateral ties and consult on global and regional matters of mutual interest.
Afghanistan’s interim Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is also expected in Beijing to join the trilateral discussions on regional peace and security.
Before his departure, Dar emphasized the depth of Pakistan-China relations, describing China as a major trading partner and a steadfast ally. He said his talks in Beijing would cover political, economic, regional, and global issues, including the recent India-Pakistan tensions.
