By Saeed Shah ISLAMABAD (Reuters) -Border clashes over the weekend between Afghanistan and Pakistan led to the deaths of dozens of soldiers, the most serious clash between the two countries since the Taliban seized power in Kabul in 2021,

Pakistans primary concerns centered on the India-Afghanistan joint statement’s reference to Jammu and Kashmir as part of India, and Afghanistan’s commitment not to allow its territory to be used against India.

Afghanistan's reported rejection of visa requests from Pakistan's top defence officials marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the two neighbours amid ongoing border clashes and deepening diplomatic mistrust.

Strategically, the N-25 connects Pakistan’s deep-sea ports with northern transport routes. The city of Khuzdar acts as a vital junction linking the N-25 with the M-8 motorway, which extends westward to Gwadar Port — the flagship of the multi-billion-dollar CPEC initiative.

China urges Pakistan and Afghanistan to resolve border clashes through dialogue, expressing concern over escalating tensions.

The fighting began Saturday night, when Afghan forces struck multiple Pakistani military posts. Afghanistan officials claimed to have killed 58 Pakistani soldiers in response to what they said were repeated violations of Afghan territory and airspace.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Sunday condemned Afghan aggression, saying that Pakistan would not compromise on its sovereignty under any circumstances.