Pakistan and Afghanistan have begun high-level talks aimed at ending their most serious conflict in years, with China stepping in as a key mediator.

The discussions are taking place in Urumqi, where senior officials from both sides are meeting to de-escalate tensions along their volatile 2,600-kilometre border.

China Steps in as Mediator

Beijing has taken an active role in facilitating dialogue between the two neighbours, whose relations have deteriorated sharply since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

The conflict, which intensified in October last year, has resulted in dozens of casualties on both sides, raising concerns about regional stability.

Pakistan has acknowledged China’s involvement, describing it as a constructive and complementary effort to restore peace.

Focus on Ceasefire and Trade

Talks are expected to centre on negotiating a potential ceasefire and reopening key border crossings that have been shut due to the violence.

The closure of these routes has disrupted trade and travel, impacting local economies and cross-border communities that rely heavily on movement between the two countries.

Core Dispute Remains

At the heart of the tensions is Pakistan’s accusation that the Afghan Taliban is harbouring militants from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as the Pakistani Taliban.

Islamabad says the group has been carrying out attacks inside Pakistan, fuelling an ongoing insurgency.

However, the Afghan Taliban has repeatedly rejected these claims, insisting that the issue of militancy is an internal matter for Pakistan.

Fragile Path Forward

Despite deep mistrust, Pakistani officials have indicated that dialogue will continue even if challenges persist.

“Our efforts for talks will continue despite the problems that will keep coming,” a foreign ministry spokesperson said.

The outcome of the Urumqi talks could determine whether both sides can stabilise relations or whether the conflict risks escalating further.

(with inputs from Reuters)