In DITA XML, linking elements like <xref> and <link> play a pivotal role in creating cross-references that enable seamless navigation within and across topics. These elements are essential for establishing relationships between pieces of content and ensuring that readers can access relevant information easily.

1. <xref> Element: The <xref> element is a fundamental component for creating cross-references within DITA topics. It allows you to link to other topics or specific locations within the same topic. To use it, you typically set the href attribute to specify the target of the cross-reference. For internal links, you can use anchor IDs to navigate within the same topic. Here’s an example:

<p>For further details, see the <xref href="#section-2"/>.</p>

2. <link> Element: The <link> element is another way to create cross-references, especially for linking to external resources. It can be used to connect to topics, files, websites, or other references outside the current DITA content. The href attribute is also utilized to specify the target of the cross-reference. Here’s an example of linking to an external website:

<p>For more information, visit the <link href="https://www.example.com" format="html"/>.</p>

These linking elements provide a versatile means to establish connections and enhance the usability of DITA content, allowing readers to efficiently explore related topics and resources.