Urumqi Talks Formally Conclude; Afghanistan and Pakistan Reaffirm Non-Escalation Pledge, Schedule Next Round for End of April

Afghanistan's Foreign Ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi formally announced on April 9 that the China-mediated talks in Urumqi had concluded after eight days. Balkhi posted on X that discussions were held in a 'constructive atmosphere,' covering bilateral relations, security issues, and regional stability. He thanked Beijing for hosting and expressed hope the process would 'help strengthen trust, deepen relations and promote effective cooperation.' Pakistan and Afghanistan formally agreed to avoid further escalation of the conflict, with both sides committing to refrain from actions that could complicate the situation. The Chinese foreign ministry confirmed the trilateral meeting concluded with agreement to hold the next round of talks at the end of April, providing the most concrete timeline for continued engagement since the conflict began on February 26. While no formal ceasefire agreement was signed and Pakistan's Operation Ghazab-il-Haq technically remained in force, the non-escalation pledge marked the first such mutual commitment since the Eid pause expired on March 24. Analysts noted the conclusion of the talks without a formal deal, but with a scheduled follow-on, was characteristic of Chinese diplomatic methodology — incremental confidence-building rather than comprehensive agreements.