China said on April 3 that talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan are making progress. According to Beijing, the two sides have agreed to continue dialogue, in what is being viewed as an effort to de-escalate tensions that have intensified between the neighboring states since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that both Pakistan and Afghanistan attach importance to the dialogue facilitated by Beijing and are prepared to continue negotiations. According to the Associated Press, the parties resumed working-level consultations several days earlier in Urumqi, in western China.
Media reports indicate that the current round of talks is focused on a possible ceasefire, the reopening of border crossing points, and the restoration of trade and cross-border movement.
At the same time, Pakistan maintains that armed groups operating from Afghan territory continue to carry out attacks on its soil, while Kabul rejects the allegation and says it remains prepared for responsible dialogue.
China, for its part, says it is seeking to preserve communication channels between Pakistan and Afghanistan and to provide a platform for negotiations, as tensions along the border have escalated in recent weeks and resulted in casualties.
However, Beijing has so far released no further details regarding either its mediation efforts or the substance of the ongoing consultations.
Author: Mariam Simsive
