ISLAMABAD: China has emerged as a major player in efforts to resolve the rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, stepping forward as a mediator when the conflict between the two countries seems to be getting out of hand.
The Chinese Foreign Minister has reportedly held talks with his counterparts in both countries, with China’s special envoy for Afghan affairs visiting both capitals to try to find points of agreement.
Foreign Office Spokeswoman Tahir Andrabi, during a weekly media briefing on Thursday, welcomed China’s initiative to defuse tension between the two warring neighbours. Pakistan and China, besides other world capitals, have been urging Afghanistan to stop exporting terrorism and support peace in the region.
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson has said that both sides need to “exercise restraint” and resume direct talks, adding that “the most urgent task is to prevent the fighting from expanding.”
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China’s intervention follows Pakistan’s launch of Operation Ghazablil-Haq last month in retaliation for deadly attacks originating from Afghan soil. However, the hostilities persist with no resolution in sight. Pakistan argues that they have the right to defend itself in the face of terrorism, and Kabul needs to ensure it does not support terror groups such as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) before they scale down the operations.
The involvement of China in the negotiations is interesting, especially with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye preoccupied with the Middle East crisis. China is in a good position to act as a mediator owing to its close ties with both Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is said that President Xi Jinping has shown personal interest in the negotiations, indicating that China recognises the importance of stability in the region for the success of its strategic interests.
Islamabad has made it clear that it would continue targeting terror hideouts on Afghan soil until Kabul assured vigorous action against those behind the killing of innocents in Pakistan.
Experts suggest that Pakistan should take this opportunity to work closely with Beijing and secure guarantees from Kabul against anti-Pakistan militants.
Beijing’s message is clear, urging both countries to start dialogue and diplomacy and avoid confrontation.
It was also learnt that China may arrange a trilateral meeting in Beijing to resolve the conflict and bring consensus on a lasting ceasefire between Islamabad and Kabul.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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