New Delhi: As tension increased between America and Iran, the agitation in Pakistan also intensified. PM Shahbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir have reached China. Before this, Munir had gone to Tehran and met Iranian leaders. Now the discussion is that the real agenda of the talks in Beijing is to reduce tension in West Asia and prepare the ground for a ceasefire.
Does Pakistan want to show itself as a peace ambassador?
For the last few days, Islamabad has been continuously giving the message that it can bring peace in the area. Government statements are repeatedly reiterating that stability in West Asia is most important. Experts say that this is an opportunity for Pakistan. Pakistan, which was lagging behind in diplomacy for a long time, now wants to show itself as an important player.
Why is dialogue with China so important?
Shahbaz’s visit to China is not being taken lightly. Beijing has already tried to become a middleman in West Asia. Remember the Saudi-Iran deal? In such a situation, the Pakistan-China meeting is being linked to the current crisis. It is believed that both countries will talk on every angle from Hormuz to nuclear deal. Pakistan needs China’s support, China needs control in the area.
What is China’s role in the talks between the two countries?
China seems to be playing an important role behind the scenes in this entire incident from the very beginning. It is being told that Pakistan had also organized an important meeting in Islamabad for talks between America and Iran, but no concrete result could be achieved from it. Even in the initial days of the war, China remained active. According to reports, China held several rounds of talks with Iranian officials and maintained constant contact in an attempt to manage the situation.
Why has the Strait of Hormuz become the biggest issue?
20% of the world’s oil passes through here. The US-Iran tension has had the biggest impact on this route. One small spark and oil prices will catch fire in the global market. America, China, India, everyone wants this path to remain open. If Iran closes Hormuz then war is certain. Due to this fear, everyone is intensifying diplomacy.
Is there still conflict between America and Iran?
Even amid reports of talks, swords have been drawn. America wants Iran to give guarantees on its nuclear program and missiles. Iran is saying, “First lift the ban, then we will talk.” Both are adamant in their insistence. On top of that, the Israel-Hezbollah front is also heated. Therefore the situation can worsen at any time.
Is Pakistan back in limelight?
Munir’s visit to Tehran, then China tour with Shahbaz, has once again brought Pakistan into the global spotlight. Analysts believe that Islamabad is presenting itself as a link between West Asia and China. Now everyone’s eyes are on the Beijing meeting. If Pakistan and China together can reduce the tension then it will be a diplomatic victory for Pakistan. Otherwise it will just remain a photo-op. The coming days will decide whether Pakistan is really a game changer or just taking advantage of the opportunity.
