Afghanistan and Pakistan hold talks in China as Beijing seeks to ease rising tensions

Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has sent a mid-level delegation to China for formal talks with Pakistan, as both sides meet in Urumqi amid efforts by Beijing to ease tensions between the neighbours.

In a statement, the Afghan ministry said the delegation had arrived in China “at the initiative of the People’s Republic of China” and would hold official talks with the Pakistani side “in accordance with its principled position.” It added that the process was being carried forward at China’s request and on the basis of “mutual respect and constructive engagement.”

Kabul outlines key priorities

The ministry said Kabul would participate from a “balanced and principled position” and planned “comprehensive and responsible talks” on good neighbourly relations, stronger trade ties, and “the effective management of security issues.” It added that diplomatic engagement based on “mutual respect, non-interference and constructive understanding” could help deliver “practical and lasting solutions.”

Pakistan also confirmed the talks. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said, “Talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban were held in China,” adding that Islamabad had sent a delegation to Urumqi to discuss “the issue of terrorism originating from within Afghanistan.” He said the talks were continuing and that Pakistan wanted “concrete steps against terrorists.”  

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The meeting follows weeks of worsening friction and cross-border violence, which experts describe as the most serious tensions between the two sides since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The agenda is reported to include security, a possible ceasefire, and measures to reopen or stabilise trade and travel links.

China has said it is working to help both sides resolve their differences through dialogue. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing had “been working actively to mediate the conflict” and would continue to play a “constructive role” in improving relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

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