‘Will Always Prioritise China-Pakistan Relations’: Xi Tells Shehbaz Sharif In Beijing

Last Updated:May 25, 2026, 6:29 PM IST

Xi said China’s commitment to Pakistan would remain unchanged despite shifts in the global political landscape.

Chinese President Xi Jinping with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing. (Image X/@SpoxCHN_MaoNing)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday told Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that China would “always prioritise” its relations with Islamabad during a high-level talks in Beijing.

The remarks came as the two leaders met during Sharif’s official visit to China, where both sides discussed regional developments and broader cooperation, according to Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning, who shared details of the meeting on X.

“President Xi said that no matter how the international landscape may evolve, China will always place priority on the development of China-Pakistan relations in its diplomacy with neighboring countries,” Ning wrote.

The foreign ministry spokeswoman also noted that XI reiterated China’s support for Pakistan in safeguarding its “independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity”.

“The two sides should accelerate the building of an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era, which will be a fine example for building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries,” she added.

Shehbaz Sharif In Beijing

The meeting in Beijing comes as Sharif continues a four-day visit to China, following earlier talks with Premier Li Qiang. The discussions also took place amid wider diplomatic efforts involving regional stability and the ongoing Iran war.

Pakistan has emerged as a central mediator between the US and Iran, hosting direct talks last month that did not lead to a final agreement. Sharif was accompanied on the trip by Pakistan’s army chief General Asim Munir, who has been central to Islamabad’s diplomatic engagement.

During the talks, Xi praised Pakistan for what he called its initiative in helping restore peace in the Middle East. He said both countries should maintain close communication and coordination, and jointly oppose unilateral actions and Cold War-style thinking in global affairs.

Sharif, speaking alongside Chinese leaders, said Pakistan was committed to supporting peace efforts and thanked China for its backing. He said the world was going through a “critical moment” and stressed the importance of continued cooperation.

China has also said it will work with Pakistan to contribute to early peace and stability in the Middle East.

(With inputs from agencies)

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