Negotiations between Afghanistan and Pakistan are advancing steadily, China said on Friday, following reports that the South Asian neighbours were meeting there to try to end their worst conflict since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.
China has been stepping up mediation efforts, holding calls with both the country’s foreign ministers and dispatching a special envoy in March.
“Both Pakistan and Afghanistan attach importance to, and welcome, China’s mediation, and are willing to sit down for talks again, which is a positive development,” foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.
Mao did not confirm the venue, though earlier statements from the neighbours indicated talks were being held in Urumqi. She added that all three countries would release further details in due course.
China Steps Up Mediation
China has maintained close communication with both sides to create conditions for dialogue and provide a platform for negotiations, Mao said.
Beijing’s involvement highlights its growing role as a regional mediator, driven by security concerns along its western borders and broader economic interests linked to regional connectivity and trade routes.
Conflict and Accusations Persist
Fighting between the two countries since October has killed scores of people, with Afghan civilians bearing the brunt.
Islamabad has accused the Taliban government of sheltering militants responsible for attacks in Pakistan, an allegation Kabul denies, calling militancy a domestic issue for its neighbour.
The renewed talks reflect mounting pressure on both sides to prevent further escalation, as prolonged instability risks disrupting trade flows, worsening humanitarian conditions, and undermining fragile regional security.
(With inputs from Reuters)
