FM Dar to visit China tomorrow for regional situation talks.

Key Points:

1. Official Visit to China:

   • Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, will visit Beijing from May 19 to 22 at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

   • The focus will be on regional stability in South Asia, bilateral relations, and global developments of mutual interest.

2. Regional Tensions:

   • The visit follows heightened tensions between Pakistan and India after a military standoff triggered by the Pahalgam attack in Occupied Kashmir (which India blamed on Pakistan without evidence).

   • Indian airstrikes (May 6–7) in Punjab and Azad Kashmir killed civilians, leading Pakistan to shoot down five Indian jets.

   • After further escalations (drone interceptions, airbase strikes), US mediation on May 10 helped secure a ceasefire.

   • India continues its aggressive stance, while Pakistan warns against escalation and offers dialogue.

3. China’s Support for Pakistan:

   • On May 5, China reaffirmed its backing for Pakistan during a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari.

   • China has been a key ally through economic support, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), seen as a “lifeline” for Pakistan’s economy.

   • In March, China extended a $2 billion loan repayment by one year, aiding Pakistan’s financial stability.

The upcoming talks between Ishaq Dar and Wang Yi highlight the strategic importance of Pakistan-China relations, especially amid ongoing regional tensions with India. China’s consistent political and economic support reinforces its role as a key partner for Pakistan in maintaining stability and counterbalancing Indian aggression. The discussions will likely focus on de-escalation strategies, economic cooperation, and long-term regional security, further solidifying the all-weather friendship between the two nations.