Beijing: China on Wednesday expressed its support for Pakistan's proposal to host talks between the United States and Iran, aiming to resolve the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. "Ceasefire and peace talks are more important tasks at hand," stated Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian during a press briefing in Beijing. "China supports all efforts conducive to easing tensions, deescalating the situation and restoring dialogue," he added.

According to Anadolu Agency, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier announced Islamabad's willingness to facilitate discussions between the US and Iran. This statement was subsequently shared by US President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform. Responding to reports of the US presenting Iran with a "peace plan," Lin reiterated China's backing for initiatives that promote dialogue and negotiation as the "only viable way forward."

Addressing concerns about the strategic Strait of Hormuz, Lin emphasized the significance of maintaining peace and stability in the region, which is crucial for securing international shipping routes. He mentioned that China is actively communicating with relevant parties to work towards deescalating the situation. "The pressing priority for the parties concerned is to immediately stop military operations to avoid further deterioration and escalation of the situation and prevent the turmoil from causing a greater impact on the global economy," Lin stated.

According to Beijing-based Caixing Global, a notable development has taken place with the successful navigation of the first Chinese-owned cargo vessel through a newly established safe corridor in Iranian waters. This new route, set up on March 13 between Larak and Qeshm islands, allows ships to bypass the traditional shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz and avoid the deeper central lanes.

Lin also commented on the broader impact of the Middle East conflict, noting that it is severely affecting the global supply chain. He affirmed China's commitment to working with the international community to address energy issues collectively. The escalation of hostilities in the region follows a joint US-Israeli offensive on Iran, which has resulted in the loss of over 1,340 lives since February 28. In retaliation, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries that it accuses of hosting 'US military assets.' The conflict has also seen the death of 13 US servicemen and injuries to dozens more.