China Urges Kabul and Islamabad to Reduce Tensions, Engage in Dialogue

BEIJING (Afghan Verified) - China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called on Afghanistan and Pakistan to reduce tensions, exercise restraint and engage in direct talks following recent cross-border military actions.

Lin Jian wrote on X that Beijing hopes the two sides will declare a ceasefire as soon as possible and resolve issues through dialogue. He added that You Xiaoyong, China's special representative for Afghanistan, has begun mediation visits to both countries. China is ready to continue efforts to facilitate reconciliation and de-escalation, Lin Jian said.

The remarks came after Pakistan carried out airstrikes on Kabul, Kandahar, Paktia, Paktika and other areas last Thursday night, according to Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Mujahid wrote on X that the strikes, described as a continuation of past aggressions, martyred civilians. He referred to Pakistan as the "military regime."

Afghan security forces responded with retaliatory attacks on Pakistan, Mujahid said.

China's intervention seeks to address escalating hostilities between the neighbors amid ongoing border disputes.