KABUL: Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, says China is concerned about recent clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which have resulted in civilian casualties.
Speaking Monday night during a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Afghanistan, Fu said Beijing hopes the disputes between Kabul and Islamabad will be resolved through diplomatic channels.
He stressed that China is using the diplomatic channels available to it to help mediate between the two sides.
Fu also called for the release of Afghanistan’s frozen assets, describing them as the property of the Afghan people. He added that continued constructive, realistic, and trust-based engagement between the international community and Afghanistan’s authorities could help address the country’s current challenges.
The Chinese envoy further urged the lifting of visa sanctions on Afghan officials as a step toward enabling dialogue and engagement between Afghanistan and the international community.
Highlighting ongoing challenges, Fu said unexploded ordnance and the forced return of Afghan migrants remain major obstacles facing the Afghan government. He also noted that some countries have deliberately reduced or completely cut humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.
Fu emphasized the importance of improving the humanitarian situation in the country.
China’s remarks come amid reports that the recent clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan have caused significant civilian losses. According to Afghan authorities, more than 100 Afghan civilians have been martyred since the start of Pakistani attacks, with extensive damage reported to homes, markets, mosques, and public property.