China Urges Restraint Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Amid Border Clashes

China’s deep concern over the recent tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan was articulated by Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian at a media briefing. Commenting on the weekend’s violent exchanges, Lin emphasized China’s desire for both nations to remain calm, avoid escalation, and pursue peace and stability through diplomatic means.

In a statement, the Pakistan Army noted that at least 23 Pakistani soldiers and over 200 Taliban fighters were killed in fierce overnight clashes. In contrast, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed, with around 30 others wounded.

Despite the hostilities, China maintains robust relations with both Pakistan and the Taliban-led Afghanistan, participating in a tripartite dialogue mechanism aimed at easing tensions. This includes addressing Islamabad’s allegations regarding Kabul hosting militant groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and Baloch Liberation Army.

Mujahid indicated that the military operations ceased at midnight after intervention by Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Interestingly, China’s statement followed after the cessation of hostilities on both sides.

Lin did not address the recent visit to India by the Taliban's interim foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, a move analysts suggest might unsettle Beijing. China, with its border shared with Afghanistan, had forged close ties with the Taliban after their takeover in August 2021, fueled by its concerns over Islamic militant factions such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement in Xinjiang.

The deteriorating relationship between the Taliban and Pakistan due to the presence of TTP and BLA militants poses challenges for China’s diplomatic efforts. Furthermore, despite Beijing’s offer to integrate Afghanistan with the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Taliban reportedly proposed establishing a direct route between China and Afghanistan via the Wakhan Corridor.