ISLAMABAD: Chinese Special Envoy on Afghanistan Ambassador Deng Xijun arrived here on Friday to meet top military and political leadership over changing situation in Afghanistan and possibility of resumption of dialogue with the Afghan Taliban.

The newly appointed Chinese Special Envoy on Afghanistan Ambassador Deng Xijun called on the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi today, Foreign Office spokesman Qazi Khalilullah told DawnNews.

During the meeting, Fatemi underscored that peace in Afghanistan was vital for the peace and stability of the entire region and highlighted Pakistan’s role in facilitating an 'Afghan-led and Afghan-owned' reconciliation process.

Also read: China favours role in Afghan peace talks, appreciates Pakistan's efforts

He emphasised that Pakistan and China had convergent interests and shared goals vis-à-vis Afghanistan and welcomed China’s growing engagement with Afghanistan, as well as its efforts for peace and development in the country.

Ambassador Deng Xijun lauded Pakistan’s role in facilitating peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan and commended Pakistan’s concerted efforts and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.

He reaffirmed China’s continued support to Pakistan to address the common challenges faced by the region.

The two sides also discussed the forthcoming Ministerial Meeting of Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process, which will take place in Islamabad next month, and reaffirmed their commitment to work closely for its success.