China said on Wednesday that Taliban and Pakistani representatives had agreed to work toward an early easing of tensions following the end of a week of talks in the western Chinese city of Urumqi.
The discussions, held from April 1 to 7 and hosted by Beijing, brought together officials from diplomatic, defense and security institutions from China, the Taliban and Pakistan, according to Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for China’s Foreign Ministry.
Speaking at a regular briefing, Mao said the talks were conducted in a “constructive atmosphere” and involved candid and pragmatic exchanges focused on resolving disputes.
According to her, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to resolving differences as soon as possible and agreed to avoid actions that could escalate tensions or further complicate the situation.
China emphasized that dialogue and consultation remain the most effective way to address disputes between the Taliban and Pakistan, Mao said, adding that all sides agreed to continue engagement under what she described as the “Urumqi process.”
She said the three parties also acknowledged the importance of maintaining stable relations, particularly given broader regional instability, and described Afghanistan and Pakistan as “close neighbors” whose ties are critical to peace in South Asia.
She said both the Taliban and Pakistani delegations expressed appreciation for China’s role as mediator and host.
Terrorism was identified as a central issue affecting relations, she added, with all sides agreeing to explore a comprehensive approach to address security concerns.
The talks come after weeks of cross-border clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistan that began in late February and have included airstrikes and artillery exchanges.
Pakistan has accused the Taliban of allowing militant groups, including Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, to operate from Afghan territory — a claim the Taliban deny. However, a UN monitoring group has reported that TTP has around 6,000 fighters in Afghanistan.
While the Urumqi talks signal a willingness to engage, neither side has disclosed concrete outcomes or agreements beyond general commitments to dialogue.
China said it would continue to facilitate communication between the two sides and support efforts to stabilize relations.
