China-Pakistan diplomatic push opens path for Middle East de-escalation: Masood Khan
Islamabad: Former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Masood Khan, has said that China’s inclusion in ongoing mediation efforts has significantly strengthened the prospects for de-escalation in the Middle East, describing it as a “momentous” development for a peace process still at an embryonic stage.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in a statement issued in Islamabad, Masood Khan noted that the evolving diplomatic framework, initially shaped by a Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, has now evolved into a “four-plus-one” mechanism with China’s endorsement and substantive contributions.
Highlighting the key elements of a proposed “Five-Point Initiative,” Khan said that the foremost priority is an immediate ceasefire, stressing that no diplomatic process can succeed without cessation of hostilities. The second pillar, he noted, is the restoration of humanitarian assistance to populations affected by the war, followed by the initiation of a structured and sustained dialogue between United States and Iran to address complex and technical issues through diplomacy.
He further underscored the importance of protecting civilian infrastructure, warning against attacks on non-combatant targets, particularly nuclear and energy facilities, which risk escalating the conflict to dangerous levels. He identified the Strait of Hormuz as the most critical flashpoint, stressing that ensuring freedom of navigation through this vital corridor is essential for global economic stability.
He added that the initiative is anchored in the principles of the United Nations Charter, particularly respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of disputes. “This gives substantive content and legitimacy to the ongoing diplomatic conversations,” he remarked.
Assessing the joint role of Pakistan and China, he said while China brings global influence and strong ties with all major stakeholders, Pakistan offers established diplomatic channels and trust with both Washington and Tehran. “Together, they are exploring common ground and a median point for peace,” he said.
However, he cautioned that the ultimate success of the initiative depends on the willingness of the principal actors to demonstrate flexibility. Khan concluded by noting that the evolving diplomatic momentum, reinforced by Pakistan-China coordination, offers a promising pathway toward de-escalation, provided that key stakeholders seize the opportunity for dialogue and compromise.
