ISLAMABAD, April 2 (Reuters) – Pakistan is holding talks with Afghanistan to end the worst conflict between the South Asian neighbours since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.
The talks in the northwestern Chinese city of Urumqi were being held between senior officials of the two countries, the spokesperson said.
China has been trying to mediate a negotiated settlement to the conflict between the allies-turned-foes that share a 2,600-km (1,600-mile) border. The fighting, that began last October, has killed scores of people on both sides.
The talks will focus on a potential ceasefire and on the reopening of border crossings to allow trade and travel, Reuters reported on Wednesday citing sources.
“Our efforts for talks will continue despite the problems that will keep coming, ” the Pakistani spokesperson told a regular media briefing.
Pakistan appreciates China’s role as an important global player and the efforts were mutually supplementary, he said.
Islamabad accuses the Afghan Taliban of harbouring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militants, also called the Pakistani Taliban, who it says are waging an insurgency inside Pakistan.
The Afghan Taliban denies the accusation, saying the militancy is Pakistan’s domestic problem.
(Reporting by Asif Shahzad, writing by Shanima A; Editing by YP Rajesh)
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