Chinese FM calls for preserving hard-won momentum of ceasefire on Iran

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday that the top priority is to make every effort to prevent the conflict from reigniting in the Middle East and maintain the hard-won momentum of the ceasefire.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a phone conversation with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar.

Wang reaffirmed China's principled position and commended Pakistan for brokering the temporary US-Iran ceasefire by hosting the Islamabad talks, in which it played a fair and balanced mediating role.

He called on the international community to continue to step up efforts to promote peace talks, and unequivocally oppose any actions that undermine the ceasefire or escalate confrontation.

Wang said the five-point initiative for restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East region put forward by China and Pakistan, embodies the international consensus on promoting peace, adding that it can still serve as a roadmap for resolving the crisis.

China welcomes Pakistan playing a greater role and stands ready to work with Pakistan and the international community to contribute actively to the early restoration of peace and stability in the Middle East, he added.

Dar gave a comprehensive briefing on Pakistan's mediation efforts in the talks between Iran and the United States and expressed gratitude for China's efforts in promoting peace.

Pakistan is ready to maintain close communication and cooperation with China to play a positive role in achieving regional peace, Dar said.