China and Pakistan Propose Five-Point Peace Plan to End Iran Conflict

Beijing. China and Pakistan have jointly proposed a five-point peace plan to end the ongoing conflict in Iran. The proposal prioritizes an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz waterway.

This initiative follows a visit by the Pakistani Foreign Minister to Beijing, where they sought Chinese cooperation to halt the hostilities. The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that both nations are making new efforts to establish peace. 

China has taken an active role now that fuel prices have been rising steadily for a month since the Iran crisis began. Previously, China had offered little reaction to the Iran conflict. 

Although China appeared less affected in the initial stages compared to other Asian nations due to its substantial oil reserves, there is growing concern that a prolonged war could deal a significant blow to the Chinese industrial sector. As the world's factory, China requires stability in the global economy to maintain its production and exports, which is currently at risk due to the Iran conflict.

China has previously attempted to play the role of a peace mediator in the Middle East. In 2023, China played a crucial role in improving diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and a year ago, Beijing hosted talks to foster national unity among Palestinian factions.

While there is no clear indication yet that anyone has endorsed this new proposal from China and Pakistan, it appears likely to help establish President Xi Jinping as a neutral mediator and peacemaker in global politics.