China Says Afghanistan-Pakistan Talks Progressing as Efforts to Ease Tensions Continue

Negotiations between Afghanistan and Pakistan are moving forward, Chinese officials said on Friday, amid ongoing efforts to ease tensions following months of conflict along their shared border.

According to China, both sides have shown willingness to re-engage in dialogue, marking a potential step toward reducing hostilities that have persisted since late last year. The talks come after violence erupted in October, resulting in dozens of casualties, with Afghan communities reported to have borne the heaviest impact.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said both countries value Beijing’s role in facilitating discussions and are prepared to return to the negotiating table. She described the development as positive, indicating that diplomatic channels remain open despite ongoing tensions.

While officials did not confirm the exact location of the latest discussions, previous rounds have been linked to the city of Urumqi in northwestern China. Beijing has maintained close communication with both governments, including holding calls with foreign ministers and dispatching a special envoy to the region in March to support mediation efforts.

China shares a border with both Afghanistan and Pakistan and has sought to play a stabilising role as relations between the two neighbours deteriorated following the return of the Taliban to power in Kabul in 2021. Once seen as partners, the two countries have increasingly clashed over security concerns.

Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of allowing militant groups to operate from its territory and carry out attacks inside Pakistan. Afghan authorities have denied the allegations, insisting that militancy within Pakistan is a domestic issue. The dispute has contributed to a sharp rise in cross-border tensions, including military exchanges and heightened security measures.

China has said it is working to create conditions conducive to dialogue by providing a platform for both sides to address their concerns. Officials indicated that further updates on the talks could be released jointly by the three countries in the coming period.

The latest diplomatic push reflects broader regional concerns about stability and security, particularly given the potential for prolonged conflict to disrupt trade routes and economic cooperation. Observers say sustained dialogue will be critical in preventing further escalation and restoring a degree of trust between the two neighbours.

As mediation efforts continue, the willingness of both Afghanistan and Pakistan to participate in talks is being seen as an encouraging sign, even as underlying tensions remain unresolved.