By Khawaja Hamza

Islamabad- According to diplomatic sources , after extensive diplomatic efforts by China, Pakistan and Afghanistan are set to begin an important first round of meeting today in the city of Urumqi, China, mediated and hosted by China.

Sources say China has invited both sides to Urumqi with sincerity and neutrality. In the first phase of the meeting, the background and progress of previous talks held in Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia will be reviewed.

Chinese officials will listen to the positions of both countries and then try to establish a mutually acceptable, verifiable mechanism to address ongoing tensions and key issues between them.

It is expected that the delegations from both countries will include officials from security, defense, and foreign affairs ministries.

China has emphasized its commitment to reducing tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan and to finding a neutral and peaceful solution.