BEIJING: China has expressed deep concern over recent border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, urging both countries to ensure the safety of its citizens and the protection of Chinese investments in the region.
Fierce border fighting erupted between Pakistani and Afghan forces on Saturday night and continued into Sunday morning.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Islamabad responded to Kabul’s aggression, during which 23 Pakistani soldiers were martyred, while around 200 Taliban fighters and their allies were killed.
Afghanistan had earlier accused Pakistan of launching airstrikes on its territory, claiming it carried out the cross-border attacks in retaliation. Islamabad, however, denied conducting any air operations, maintaining instead that Kabul must “prevent the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) from using its soil for terrorism.”
Despite repeated calls from Islamabad for Kabul to take action against militants operating from its territory, Afghanistan continues to reject allegations that it harbours terrorist groups.
China, which shares borders with both Pakistan and Afghanistan in its western region, has been attempting to mediate between the two neighbours to ease rising tensions.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said during a regular press briefing that “China will continue to play a constructive role in improving and advancing relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.”
He expressed hope that both Kabul and Islamabad would remain peaceful and restrained, and would resolve their concerns through dialogue and consultation to prevent further escalation.
In August last year, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had urged his Pakistani and Afghan counterparts during a meeting in Kabul to strengthen communication at all levels.
A few weeks earlier, Beijing had hosted an informal trilateral meeting, during which both Kabul and Islamabad agreed to deepen diplomatic engagement and strengthen bilateral ties.