BEIJING (Dunya News) – Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, arrived in Beijing on a one-day official visit, marking a significant moment in Islamabad’s ongoing diplomatic engagement over the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Dar was received upon arrival by China’s Special Envoy for Afghan Affairs Yue Xiaoyong and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi. The visit is his second trip to Beijing this year and comes at a time of heightened regional instability.
Chinese officials indicated that Beijing is prepared to enhance coordination with Pakistan regarding the evolving situation involving Iran. Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning confirmed that both sides would strengthen strategic communication and work towards peace efforts linked to the crisis.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator @MIshaqDar50 lands in Beijing for a one-day visit at the invitation of his counterpart; Foreign Minister Wang Yi of China. pic.twitter.com/qZs6iW4ccx
— Ali Dar (@alimdar82) March 31, 2026During the visit, Dar is expected to hold detailed discussions with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, reviewing bilateral relations as well as regional and global developments. The talks are set to focus on issues of mutual concern, particularly the ongoing conflict involving United States, Israel and Iran.
The visit coincides with increasing diplomatic activity aimed at easing tensions stemming from the war, which has drawn in multiple regional and global stakeholders.
Islamabad has intensified its diplomatic outreach in recent weeks, positioning itself as a key intermediary between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan hosted a high-level quadrilateral meeting involving foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt, focusing on ways to de-escalate the conflict and restore stability in the region.
Following the meeting, Dar stated that participating countries had called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Middle East. Pakistan has also reportedly facilitated communication channels between the United States and Iran, relaying key messages between the two sides.
Observers suggest that Islamabad’s proactive diplomacy has elevated its position on the global stage, particularly in relation to conflict resolution efforts.
DPM/FM Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 departed #Islamabad this morning for a one-day visit to #Beijing, #China, at the invitation of his counterpart, Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Both leaders will review bilateral ties and discuss regional & global issues of mutual… pic.twitter.com/GTxPlk3KJh
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) March 31, 2026Ahead of the visit, China was increasingly viewed as a potential guarantor in any future agreement between Iran and the United States. Analysts believe Tehran is seeking firm assurances in any prospective deal, a role that Beijing could potentially fulfil.
The Foreign Office reiterated that Pakistan and China share an “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership”, characterised by close coordination and regular consultations on regional and international matters. Officials stated that Dar’s visit would provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions on both bilateral ties and pressing global developments.
In a notable development, the Foreign Office revealed that Dar proceeded with the visit despite medical advice to rest after suffering a hairline fracture in his shoulder a day earlier. The decision was described as reflective of the importance Pakistan places on its relationship with China.
The visit takes place against the backdrop of a prolonged conflict that began on February 28, involving the United States, Israel and Iran, and has since impacted the broader Middle East. The situation has also triggered significant economic repercussions, particularly due to disruptions in oil and gas shipments through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
The ongoing blockade has affected global energy markets, contributing to rising economic pressures worldwide.