WASHINGTON: China is stepping up its diplomacy on the Iran war, putting forward a five-point proposal with Pakistan, rallying support from Gulf countries and opposing a United Nations proposal to use any force necessary to open the Strait of Hormuz. It is China’s latest push for a more prominent role in global affairs, though it may prove to be more rhetorical than substantive, with the US appearing uninterested in Beijing’s efforts.

It's a turnaround for Beijing, whose official response has been muted so far. Why is China stepping in now?

BEIJING: China on Wednesday urged countries to join a joint peace initiative with Pakistan to help ease tensions in the Middle East, warning that the ongoing war in Iran is…

WASHINGTON: China is stepping up its diplomacy on the Iran war, putting forward a five-point proposal with Pakistan, rallying support from Gulf countries and opposing a United…