China Urges Dialogue Between Afghanistan and Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions
Beijing is calling for calm and restraint between Afghanistan and Pakistan, urging both nations to resolve escalating disputes through dialogue and consultation rather than force. The call comes after Pakistan launched strikes inside Afghanistan targeting what it claims are terrorist safe havens, intensifying a long-running conflict between the two neighbors.
Recent Escalations and Chinese Concerns
On Friday, March 14, 2026, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with his Afghan counterpart, Amir Khan Muttaqi, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the growing tensions. According to a statement released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Wang Yi urged both sides to exercise restraint, engage in immediate face-to-face talks, and seek an immediate ceasefire [1]. He warned that further use of force would only exacerbate the situation and escalate tensions.
The Chinese appeal followed Pakistani airstrikes on Friday targeting a fuel depot near Kandahar airport in Afghanistan. This action represents a significant escalation in the conflict, despite China’s ongoing efforts to mediate [1].
Underlying Tensions and Pakistan’s Concerns
Pakistan has experienced a resurgence in terrorist activity since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan in 2021. Islamabad has repeatedly called on the Taliban administration to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries within Afghanistan, particularly those linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). These appeals, however, have reportedly gone unheeded.
Recent attacks, including a February 16 suicide bombing in Bajaur district that resulted in the deaths of eleven Pakistani soldiers and a civilian, have heightened tensions. Investigations have linked the bomber to the Afghan Taliban’s special forces [1].
China’s Role and Regional Stability
China has consistently advocated for regional stability and has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to foster cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Sixth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue was held in Kabul on August 20, 2025, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar in attendance [1] and [3].
During the dialogue, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of deepening good-neighborly relations, mutual trust, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs [1] and [3]. China has too expressed its willingness to work with the international community to promote peace in Iran [1].
Looking Ahead
As tensions remain high, China’s continued diplomatic efforts will be crucial in preventing further escalation and fostering a peaceful resolution between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The emphasis on dialogue and restraint reflects China’s broader commitment to regional stability and its vision of a shared future for the region.