Beijing: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday emphasized the need to prevent the escalation of tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan and called for a return to negotiations. In a phone conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Wang highlighted the importance of preventing further conflict between the two nations.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang Yi expressed China's support for Pakistan's anti-terrorism efforts and urged the country to continue safeguarding Chinese personnel and projects within its borders. He noted that China's special envoy on Afghan affairs is actively working to promote peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The dialogue between the two foreign ministers also covered regional and global issues, with Dar underscoring the necessity of reducing tensions in the Middle East and beyond. A statement from Pakistan's Foreign Ministry emphasized the significance of de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy, in line with United Nations principles.

In a related development, Afghanistan accused Pakistan of targeting seven villages during recent clashes. The incidents were reported by Afghanistan's deputy spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat on the social media platform X, claiming three fatalities in Paktia province and mortar attacks in various districts. Islamabad has yet to respond to these allegations.

The relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan has deteriorated over recent weeks, with border tensions leading to casualties and property damage. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring terrorists and has launched an operation named "Ghazab Lil Haq" across the border. Afghanistan denies these accusations and advocates for negotiations. Both countries have reported casualties, but the figures have not been independently verified.