Kabul/Islamabad, March 28 (NationPress) China's attempts to mediate between Islamabad and Kabul seem to have hit an impasse, casting serious doubt on its influence in both nations, particularly in Pakistan, according to a recent report.

The international magazine 'The Diplomat' highlights that despite the Chinese Foreign Ministry's claim of both Afghanistan and Pakistan showing a willingness to address ongoing issues, the initial response to Beijing's mediation was lackluster, especially from Pakistan.

“Following unsuccessful mediation attempts by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, China stepped in to resolve the escalating conflict, which Pakistan has labeled an 'open war'. The hostilities began in October of the previous year, with both nations conducting military strikes on each other's territories. A ceasefire was brokered by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, but the violence resumed due to unresolved tensions,” the report elaborates.

The renewed clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have raised major concerns for China, a significant ally, economic collaborator, and neighbor to both countries.

The report indicates that Beijing has intensified its mediation efforts, recognizing its substantial interests in both nations.

“Following Pakistan's launch of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against the Taliban on February 27, China voiced deep concerns, urging both parties to 'remain calm, exercise restraint, and resolve disputes through dialogue and negotiation; cease hostilities quickly to prevent additional suffering,'” the report stated.

China escalated its mediation attempts during the first two weeks of March, with its special envoy for Afghanistan, Yu Xiaoyong, visiting both Islamabad and Kabul to facilitate a ceasefire.

According to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Yue Xiaoyong undertook shuttle diplomacy regarding the recent conflicts between the two nations from March 7 to 14.

As per reports from Pakistan, The Diplomat noted that Islamabad has rejected Beijing's attempts to mediate the conflict, citing the unchanged position of the Taliban concerning the presence of militant factions in Afghanistan.

The report emphasizes that China's mediation initiatives between Pakistan and Afghanistan seem to be fruitless.

“Pakistan's indifferent response to China's mediation suggests two possible scenarios. Firstly, Pakistan might genuinely be disinterested in negotiating with the Taliban until the threat posed by militant groups in Afghanistan—which the Taliban denies—has been eradicated, irrespective of the Taliban's assistance. Alternatively, Pakistan's increasing alignment with the United States during the Trump administration may have empowered it to disregard China's requests,” the report concluded.