Islamabad (GNP) : Masood Khan, former ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China and the United Nations and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, has underscored that the inclusion of China 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.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Khan noted that the evolving diplomatic framework-initially shaped by a quadrilateral grouping of Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt- has now effectively expanded into a “four-plus-one” mechanism with China’s endorsement and substantive contributions. He emphasized that this development has added both credibility and structure to ongoing negotiations.
Highlighting the key elements of what he described as a “Five-Point Initiative,” Khan explained that the framework prioritizes an immediate ceasefire as the first and most critical step. “No diplomatic process can succeed without cessation of hostilities,” he stated, stressing that continued conflict undermines all peace efforts.
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 the principal parties—United States and Iran—to address complex and technical issues through diplomacy.
Khan 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 firmly 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.
Khan also pointed to growing international support for the process, including signals from the European Union, which has expressed readiness to support diplomatic efforts and create space for dialogue.
Assessing the joint role of Pakistan and China, Khan described it as complementary and strategically significant. 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. While some signs of pragmatism are visible behind the scenes, he stressed that meaningful progress requires both sides to move beyond rigid positions.
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.
