Pakistan is holding talks with Afghanistan aimed at ending the worst conflict between the two South Asian neighbours since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed on Thursday that senior officials from both countries are participating in discussions in the northwestern Chinese city of Urumqi.
China Mediates the Negotiations
The talks are being facilitated by China, which has been attempting to broker a negotiated settlement between the two countries. The conflict, which began last October, has already claimed scores of lives on both sides and disrupted trade and cross-border movement. Officials said the negotiations will focus on establishing a potential ceasefire and reopening border crossings to restore trade and travel.
Pakistan’s Position
The Pakistani spokesperson emphasized that Islamabad remains committed to the dialogue, stating, “Our efforts for talks will continue despite the problems that will keep coming.” Pakistan has also expressed appreciation for China’s role as a mediator, calling the efforts “mutually supplementary.”
Tensions Over Militancy
A key sticking point in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations is Islamabad’s accusation that the Afghan Taliban is harboring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, who are carrying out attacks inside Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban has denied these claims, arguing that militancy within Pakistan is an internal issue for Islamabad to resolve.
Outlook
The talks represent a critical opportunity to stabilize a volatile border and reduce the risk of further violence. Success could reopen trade routes, improve security, and strengthen Pakistan’s role as a regional mediator, particularly amid its ongoing efforts in the Middle East conflict between the U.S., Iran, and other regional actors.
With information from Reuters.
