Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to embark on an official visit to Beijing from May 19 to 22, where he will engage in comprehensive discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The talks will focus on the evolving security landscape in South Asia and its impact on regional peace and stability, according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Sunday.
The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Pakistan and India following a recent ceasefire, which ended a military standoff triggered by the Pahalgam attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir. India, without presenting evidence, blamed Pakistan for the incident. In retaliation for Indian air strikes on May 6–7 that targeted areas in Punjab and Azad Kashmir and caused civilian casualties, Pakistan downed five Indian fighter jets. The escalation, marked by drone interceptions and strikes on airbases, eventually led to a ceasefire brokered by the United States on May 10.
While India has maintained a confrontational stance, Pakistan has urged de-escalation and called for dialogue. China reaffirmed its support for Pakistan amid the crisis during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Chinese officials on May 5.
The Foreign Office confirmed that FM Dar’s visit comes at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The two leaders will hold in-depth discussions on the regional situation, with particular focus on South Asia’s stability.
In addition to security matters, the visit will include a review of the full scope of Pakistan-China bilateral relations. Both sides will also exchange views on key regional and international developments of mutual concern.
This trip is part of the continued high-level engagement between Islamabad and Beijing. China remains one of Pakistan’s most significant allies, with strong cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, energy, and investment — particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), often described as an economic “lifeline” for Pakistan.
Earlier this year, China extended the repayment deadline for a $2 billion loan by one year, providing critical financial relief and helping stabilize Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves.
