BEIJING: China announced on Friday that talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan are making good progress. This comes after reports surfaced about discussions taking place in China aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between the two countries, which has escalated since the Taliban regained control in 2021.
China, sharing a border with both nations, has stepped in as a mediator. They have been in regular contact with the ministers of foreign affairs from both countries and had a special envoy visit earlier this year in March.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning shared at a press conference that both Pakistan and Afghanistan appreciate China’s efforts to facilitate dialogue and are keen to continue their discussions. She pointed out that this willingness to talk is a positive sign for both nations.
While Mao did not specify the exact location of the talks, the two countries previously indicated they might be taking place in Urumqi, a city in northwestern China.
Mao emphasized that China is committed to fostering an environment conducive to these discussions and is actively engaged with both sides to ensure a fruitful dialogue. She mentioned that further updates from the three countries would be shared soon.
In related news, clashes that erupted in October between Pakistan and Afghanistan have resulted in heavy casualties, particularly among Afghans. Pakistan has accused the Afghan Taliban of providing support to groups that carry out attacks in their territory. However, Afghanistan dismisses these claims, labeling them as issues within Pakistan’s own borders.
