Chinese President Xi Jinping met Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing on May 25, 2026, as part of Sharif’s four-day official visit to China from May 23. [1, 2, 3] Sharif was accompanied by Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, a key negotiator in the ongoing US-Iran conflict mediation. [1, 2, 4, 5]
Pakistan has played a central mediating role in efforts to end the US-Iran war, having hosted the only direct talks in April 2026 between US and Iranian officials. Those talks ultimately failed after Iran accused the US of making excessive demands. [1, 2, 4, 5] Munir traveled to Tehran on May 22-23 to continue negotiations with Iranian leaders. [1, 2, 4, 5]
During the Beijing meetings, Xi Jinping praised Pakistan’s efforts, calling the country “taking the initiative to play a mediating role in restoring peace in the Middle East.” He urged both sides to maintain close communication and oppose unilateralism and Cold War mentality. [2] Xi also commended Pakistan’s peace promotion role, saying China values its participation in regional stability. [2, 4, 5]
Shehbaz Sharif described the current moment as critical for the world and highlighted Pakistan’s sincere mediation role, noting that Field Marshal Munir’s visit to Tehran happened amid Sharif’s diplomatic trip. He thanked China for supporting peace efforts and expressed optimism, saying “things are moving in the right direction.” [1]
Field Marshal Munir told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that a US-Iran agreement is close to being reached. Munir pledged to continue efforts to facilitate a deal and hoped for increased Chinese involvement in the process. [4, 5] Wang Yi called Pakistan a trustworthy and qualified mediator and said “peace may be difficult, but it will ultimately arrive.” [4, 5]
China has maintained a quieter, supportive role by facilitating calls and meetings with Gulf countries while backing Pakistan’s mediation efforts. [1, 2, 4, 5] Sharif’s visit also commemorates the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations in 2026. [3]
Sharif’s official visit is set to conclude on May 26, following engagements in Hangzhou and Beijing focused on strengthening bilateral ties and cooperating on regional security. [1, 2, 3]
