BEIJING -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday said that initiating peace talks is no easy task, but only through negotiations can more casualties and losses be avoided, which would also help prevent the expansion of the conflict and restore normal navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks in a phone conversation with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar at the latter's request.

During the call, Dar briefed Wang on the latest developments regarding the situation in Iran and shared Pakistan's perspective.

He expressed gratitude to China for supporting Pakistan's mediation efforts and emphasized that a ceasefire, ending the conflict, and restoring peace were shared aspiration of all parties involved.

He noted that the current moment is crucial for restarting peace talks and urged the international community to encourage both the United States and Iran to return to the negotiating table and find effective solutions for peace.

Pakistan and China share the same goals and positions on the issue, said Dar, who expressed hope that the two countries would work together to play a constructive role in persuading the parties to end the conflict.

Wang reiterated China's principled stance, affirming that China and Pakistan are strategic partners of mutual support and trust, and that both countries hold an objective and just position on the conflict, with broadly aligned views.

He expressed appreciation for Pakistan's unremitting efforts to de-escalate the situation and reaffirmed China's support for Pakistan's continued role as a mediator.

China stands ready to strengthen strategic communication and coordination with Pakistan, make joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict, and work together to advance regional peace and stability, Wang said.

The two sides agreed to jointly promote a ceasefire, the end of the conflict, and the resumption of peace talks, as well as to ensure the safety of non-military targets and maritime routes, and to support the United Nations in playing a leading role.

They also exchanged views on border conflicts between Pakistan and Afghanistan and other issues.