US President Donald Trump has expressed his belief that China played a crucial role in persuading Iran to engage in ceasefire negotiations. This assertion comes as the White House confirmed high-level discussions between the US and China regarding the situation.
China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, disclosed that he had conducted 26 telephone conversations with officials from Iran, Israel, Russia, and various Gulf nations throughout the conflict. He emphasized China’s commitment to actively work toward a permanent resolution of the war.
It is suggested that an urgent call from China, Iran’s largest trading partner, was instrumental in facilitating successful ceasefire discussions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Trump’s remarks highlight China’s influence as negotiations approached a critical juncture.
In a significant development, Pakistan is set to host negotiations between the US and Iran in Islamabad, following collaboration with China on a comprehensive five-point plan. This plan encompasses an immediate ceasefire, the initiation of peace talks, the safeguarding of civilians and infrastructure, the assurance of secure shipping routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, and a UN-supported framework for enduring peace.
Historically, Pakistan has allied with the US while also nurturing strong relationships with both Iran and China. According to Professor Natasha Lindstaedt from the University of Essex, it is likely that Pakistan sought China’s assistance in this matter. She noted the substantial pressure from China at a crucial moment, which likely influenced Iran’s willingness to negotiate.
China’s economic ties with Iran are significant, with Chinese buyers accounting for over 80% of Iran’s oil exports, representing approximately 13% of China’s overall oil imports. Lindstaedt pointed out that China’s interest in the Middle East has intensified, particularly since its trade tensions with the US escalated. She indicated that an ongoing conflict in the region would adversely impact China’s economy, making it imperative for Beijing to seek stability.
China has expressed its approval of the ceasefire and has taken some credit for its facilitation of the negotiations. President Trump is scheduled to visit Beijing in May for a long-awaited meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which was previously postponed due to the escalating conflict.
Under the temporary ceasefire agreement, the US is anticipated to halt military actions against Iran for a two-week period, while Iran is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, Iran has introduced a ten-point proposal aimed at achieving a long-term resolution to the conflict, which Trump has characterized as “workable.”
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that Minister Wang Yi’s extensive contacts with regional counterparts depict China’s balanced approach to the crisis. She reiterated China’s objective to facilitate an end to military operations and to foster dialogue aimed at addressing the underlying issues and restoring peace in the Gulf.
Both China and Pakistan have collectively proposed a five-point framework to restore stability in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that Islamabad would facilitate further discussions between US and Iranian delegations this week.
However, Professor Lindstaedt cautioned that ceasefires tend to be “inherently fragile,” often dependent on trust and effective communication. She highlighted that previous ceasefires, such as the one between Iran and Israel, have been tested by continued hostilities. Following the announcement of the current ceasefire, reports have surfaced of Iran launching attacks on Kuwait and Qatar, while Israel has responded with strikes on Lebanon. Lindstaedt noted that both sides appear to be weary of ongoing conflict, suggesting a potential for negotiation but cautioning against over-optimism.
