The official spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abdul Qahar Balkhi, confirmed that the formal talks between the Afghan and Pakistani delegations, hosted and mediated by China in the city of Urumqi, have successfully concluded.
Kabul 24: According to Balkhi, the Afghan side described the negotiations as constructive and comprehensive.
Discussions covered bilateral relations, security issues, border management, and regional stability. The Islamic Emirate’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed gratitude to China for its warm hospitality and active mediation role, while voicing hope that this process will lead to greater mutual trust, stable relations, deeper understanding, and effective long-term cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
Meanwhile, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement confirming that peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan were held under Chinese mediation in Urumqi. Both sides agreed to seek a comprehensive solution to their differences.
The Chinese statement highlighted that the delegations participated in a practical, sincere, and constructive atmosphere, engaging in in-depth discussions on key issues.
According to Beijing, the two parties committed to refraining from any actions that could complicate the situation or escalate violence. Instead, they pledged to resolve problems through dialogue, mutual understanding, and continuous engagement.
China emphasized its close relations with both Afghanistan and Pakistan and its role as an active mediator in facilitating these talks.China further stated that it will continue its efforts in the future to promote confidence-building measures, sustainable relations, and constructive negotiations between Kabul and Islamabad.
The talks come at a time of heightened border tensions that have recently caused casualties and disrupted cross-border trade and movement. Observers view China’s mediation in Urumqi, located in Xinjiang, as a reflection of Beijing’s strategic interest in maintaining stability in South and Central Asia, protecting its economic projects, and preventing the spillover of insecurity.
Although specific details of any agreements have not been publicly released, both sides expressed commitment to continuing the diplomatic process.
Analysts believe this round of negotiations could mark a positive step toward de-escalation, though lasting peace will require sustained political will from both Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with ongoing support from regional mediators like China.
Overall, the successful conclusion of the Urumqi talks has raised cautious optimism for reduced tensions and improved neighborly relations, which would benefit not only the two countries but also contribute to broader regional stability.
