Security – Pakistan Urges Kabul to Act as Talks Begin in China
Security – Pakistan on Thursday said responsibility for easing tensions with Afghanistan rests largely with Kabul, as both countries entered initial negotiations aimed at reducing hostilities and addressing long-standing security concerns.
Talks Begin Amid Rising Tensions
The latest round of discussions commenced in Urumqi, a city in China’s Xinjiang region, following a series of diplomatic engagements involving senior officials. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had earlier travelled to Beijing, where he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to coordinate efforts ahead of the talks.
Officials described the dialogue as preliminary, focused on setting the groundwork for more detailed negotiations in the future. Both sides are attempting to address escalating tensions that have strained relations between the neighboring countries in recent months.
Pakistan Calls for Concrete Action
Speaking in Islamabad, Pakistan’s foreign ministry spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi emphasized that while Islamabad remains committed to dialogue, meaningful progress depends on Afghanistan taking decisive steps.
He stated that Pakistan’s participation reflects its continued concern over security issues, particularly allegations that militant groups are operating from Afghan territory. According to Andrabi, any sustainable resolution would require Afghanistan to demonstrate clear and verifiable action against such groups.
The spokesperson also clarified that the current discussions are being held at a “working level,” indicating that they are part of a broader diplomatic process rather than a final settlement. He noted that Pakistan’s delegation was still engaged in talks and had not yet returned.
Background of the Conflict
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have deteriorated over claims by Islamabad that cross-border attacks are being carried out by militants allegedly based in Afghanistan. Kabul, under Taliban leadership, has consistently denied these accusations, maintaining that it does not provide shelter to extremist elements.
Despite these denials, incidents along the border have contributed to growing mistrust, complicating efforts to rebuild cooperation between the two nations, which were once close allies.
Role of China and Regional Stakeholders
China has played an increasingly active role in facilitating dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Beijing has supported Islamabad’s position while also maintaining communication channels with Kabul. Reports indicate that China has even dispatched a special envoy to Afghanistan in an effort to encourage a negotiated outcome.
In parallel, Pakistan has been involved in broader diplomatic initiatives beyond the region, including efforts to mediate tensions in the Middle East. These engagements have strengthened its ties with key international players, adding another layer to its diplomatic strategy.
Temporary Truce and Continued Challenges
Last month, both countries agreed to a temporary halt in hostilities during the end of Ramadan, following appeals from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey. While the ceasefire offered brief relief, it did not fully resolve underlying issues.
Since the truce expired, sporadic incidents have reportedly occurred in remote border areas, underscoring the fragile nature of the situation. Previous attempts at dialogue, including meetings held in Istanbul last year and separate initiatives by Gulf nations, have not produced lasting results.
Uncertain Path Ahead
The current talks represent another attempt to bridge differences, but challenges remain significant. Analysts note that trust deficits, security concerns, and differing narratives continue to hinder progress.
Both sides have expressed a willingness to engage, yet the outcome will likely depend on whether concrete measures can be implemented on the ground. For now, the discussions in China signal a cautious step forward in a complex and evolving relationship.