Russia and China Urge Dialogue Between Taliban and Pakistan Amid Rising Border Clashes

Following intense clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistani border guards, alongside Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul and several provinces, Russia and China have called on both sides to de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue. Moscow expressed concern over the expansion of armed conflicts, while Beijing emphasized the immediate need for a ceasefire.

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, wrote on her X (formerly Twitter) page on Friday, February 26, that Russia is worried about the escalation of violence between the Taliban and Pakistan. The Russian Foreign Ministry urged both parties to abandon this “dangerous confrontation” and resolve their differences through political and diplomatic channels.

Simultaneously, Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, stated that Beijing is deeply concerned about rising tensions along the shared border. He said China has called on the Taliban and Pakistan to exercise restraint and declare an immediate ceasefire to prevent further conflict. According to him, China is actively engaged with both sides via diplomatic channels and stands ready to mediate to ease tensions.

These appeals followed Pakistani airstrikes on several Afghan cities, including Kabul. Pakistani officials said these attacks were in response to an assault by Taliban-affiliated forces on Pakistani border guards.

The surge in hostilities comes as the Taliban administration has so far failed to establish stable and tension-free relations with Afghanistan’s eastern neighbor—a situation that has intensified security concerns for residents living in border areas. China maintains close relations with both parties and has preserved its ties with Taliban authorities since 2021.