Talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, held under Chinese mediation in Urumqi, have concluded without any breakthrough, but more rounds are expected in the near future to achieve some progress.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, sources confirmed that the dialogue between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban ended after discussions in the Chinese city of Urumqi, where both sides highlighted key issues affecting bilateral relations.
The meeting, held in the presence of Chinese intermediaries yesterday (Thursday), marked an initial effort to revive a stalled dialogue process.
Sources said that Thursday’s sitting served as a preliminary session aimed at restarting engagement between the two sides. However, as anticipated, no significant progress was made during the talks.
Despite this, both parties expressed willingness to continue discussions, with further rounds of negotiations expected in the future. China also reaffirmed its commitment to playing a neutral mediating role.
Yesterday, while giving a weekly briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi confirmed that talks are currently under way in Urumqi, where Pakistan has sent a delegation for dialogue with the Afghan Taliban under Chinese mediation. He said the objective of the talks is to end cross-border terrorism and ensure peace.
The FO spokesperson confirmed that discussions regarding Pakistan and Afghanistan were also held during the China visit of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, underscoring the importance of regional coordination.
He added that the meeting in Urumqi follows the recent visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Beijing, where he held discussions with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.
He stressed that Pakistan expects the Afghan side to take concrete and verifiable action against militant groups operating from its territory. The talks, described as working-level engagements, are ongoing, with the Pakistani delegation still present in China.
China has been actively facilitating dialogue between the two neighbours, as tensions persist following renewed clashes after a temporary ceasefire.
Pakistan maintains that the responsibility to end hostilities lies with Afghanistan, while diplomatic efforts continue to seek a durable resolution.
He said the country is being represented by senior government officials, though details regarding the full composition of the delegation have not yet been disclosed.
