India, May 25 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing on Monday as global diplomatic attempts to calm tensions between Iran and the United States continue to move slowly. According to Chinese state media, the meeting came shortly after Sharif held discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who is considered China's second most powerful leader. The visit has drawn international attention because Pakistan, being a mediator, has become an important bridge between Washington and Tehran during the ongoing crisis.

Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Also Joins China Visit

Sharif is accompanied by Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, who has been playing a vital role in backchannel diplomacy between Iran and...