Pakistan Rejects Reports of Refusing China's Mediation for Talks with Taliban

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has rejected media reports claiming it refused China's request for talks with the Taliban, describing them as 'baseless.'

Taher Andrabi, spokesperson for Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, said on Monday that any speculation or distortion of facts in this regard has no basis. He emphasized that Pakistan and China remain 'reliable partners and close friends' and maintain close contact and coordination on all matters of common interest.

China has reiterated the need to reduce tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan. Lin Jian, spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry, said the most important priority is to prevent the expansion of conflicts and for both sides to return to the negotiating table as soon as possible. He added that Beijing is ready to continue its mediation efforts to reduce tensions and improve relations between Kabul and Islamabad.

The statements come amid ongoing conflicts between the Taliban and Pakistan that have lasted 19 days, including Pakistani airstrikes on more than ten provinces in Afghanistan.

According to United Nations statistics, at least 75 civilians have been killed and 193 others wounded following Pakistan's attacks on parts of the country.