Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar landed in Beijing on Monday to begin a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening Pakistan-China relations. The visit comes at a crucial time, following recent military tensions between Pakistan and India after the Pahalgam incident.
Warm Welcome and High-Level Agenda
Dar was received at the airport by senior Chinese officials. His visit follows an invitation from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and marks the first high-level contact between Islamabad and Beijing since the Pakistan-India ceasefire was brokered on May 10.
During his stay, Dar will meet Wang Yi for wide-ranging discussions covering bilateral relations, regional peace, and evolving security challenges. Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq is also part of the Pakistani delegation.
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Trilateral Engagement in Focus
The talks will set the stage for a scheduled trilateral meeting on May 20, where Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will also participate. The meeting will focus on regional security, economic cooperation, and Afghanistan’s evolving situation.
Backdrop of Recent Conflict
In response, Pakistan downed six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and neutralised dozens of drones. The 87-hour conflict ended with a ceasefire facilitated by the United States.
China Reaffirms Support
Amid the crisis, China expressed strong diplomatic support for Pakistan. The Chinese ambassador in Islamabad described the relationship as one of “ironclad brothers” and praised Pakistan’s restraint and maturity in handling the situation.
Strengthening a Strategic Bond
The Foreign Office called the visit a reflection of the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between the two nations. Both sides are expected to reaffirm mutual support in security, economic development, and regional stability as part of their longstanding alliance.
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