BEIJING: Fresh diplomatic efforts are underway as Pakistan and Afghan Taliban resume talks with mediation from China, aiming to ease tensions after recent border clashes.
According to reports, senior-level discussions began in Urumqi on Wednesday. Sources say the Pakistani delegation is being led by a senior official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the talks intended to pave the way for broader, formal negotiations.
The renewed dialogue follows weeks of sporadic violence along the border, despite a temporary ceasefire during Eid-ul-Fitr. While the truce helped reduce hostilities, tensions have remained fragile.
Officials indicate that the current round of meetings is focused on rebuilding communication channels and laying the groundwork for sustained engagement between the two sides.
Relations have been strained, with Islamabad accusing Kabul of allowing Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters to operate from Afghan territory claims that Afghan authorities have consistently denied.
China has played an active diplomatic role in recent weeks. Its special envoy for Afghan affairs, Yue Xiaoyong, visited both countries earlier in March to encourage dialogue and push for a ceasefire following deadly cross-border incidents.
Meetings during that visit included discussions with senior Afghan officials such as Amir Khan Muttaqi, highlighting Beijing’s ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote regional stability.
