BEIJING/ISLAMABAD – China hosted week-long informal talks in Urumqi from April 1 to 7 2026 bringing together Pakistan and Afghanistan in a bid to de-escalate months of deadly cross-border fighting that has killed hundreds and displaced over 94,000 people .
The tripartite meeting involved cross-departmental delegations including officials from foreign affairs defense and security. The Pakistani side was led by Foreign Ministry Additional Secretary Dr. Syed Ali Asad Gillani while Afghanistan was represented by Foreign Ministry Chief of Staff Mohibullah Wasiq .
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the discussions as “candid and pragmatic” proceeding in a sound atmosphere with a problem-solving results-oriented approach . The Afghan and Pakistani delegations reportedly expressed appreciation for China’s “fair and just position and utmost effort” as the host nation .
The core outcome saw Afghanistan and Pakistan reaffirming that they are “Muslim brothers and close neighbors” and agreeing “not to take actions that could escalate or further complicate the situation” . Both sides committed to resolving differences as soon as possible through dialogue and consultation.
China emphasized that “terrorism is the core issue affecting Afghanistan-Pakistan relations” . Pakistani sources told The Express Tribune that Islamabad conveyed three demands to Kabul: formally declare the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan a terrorist organisation dismantle its infrastructure and provide verifiable proof of action .
The three sides agreed the “Urumqi process” is of substantive significance and will continue with further communication and dialogue . Sources indicated a follow-up meeting is expected by the end of April 2026
