A Reuters image showed Taliban fighters carrying a box of weapons near the Torkham border after exchanges of fire between Pakistani and Afghan forces.
China on Friday urged Pakistan and Afghanistan to negotiate a ceasefire, expressing deep concern over the recent escalation along their shared frontier. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing was “closely following developments” and was troubled by rising tensions and the reported casualties.
Mao reiterated that China supports efforts to combat all forms of terrorism but called on both sides to stay calm, exercise restraint and settle differences through dialogue and consultation. She urged the two neighbours to realise a ceasefire as soon as possible to prevent further suffering, saying de-escalation is in both countries’ fundamental interests and would help maintain regional peace and stability.
Mao added that China has been engaging through its channels and stands ready to continue playing a constructive role in de-escalation and in improving bilateral ties. When asked whether Beijing was considering evacuating Chinese nationals or companies, or suspending flights because of cross-border clashes, she said China is monitoring the situation closely and will provide necessary assistance to Chinese citizens in need.
China maintains relations with Pakistan and Afghanistan via a tripartite mechanism and holds periodic meetings to address Islamabad’s repeated allegations that militant groups based in Afghanistan — including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and the Baloch Liberation Army — carry out attacks in Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban reject those accusations and blame Pakistan’s military actions, including reported airstrikes on Afghan territory, for aggravating the conflict.
