ISTANBUL/ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated a firm stance during high-level talks in Istanbul, declaring it will not tolerate any terrorism originating from Afghan soil. The discussions, co-hosted by Türkiye and Qatar, mark the third round of principal-level negotiations between Islamabad and the Afghan Taliban aimed at consolidating a fragile ceasefire after deadly cross-border clashes last month.
The Pakistani delegation emphasized that Afghan territory cannot be used for terrorist activities under any circumstances. A key focus of the two-day talks is to finalize a monitoring and verification mechanism to ensure peace is maintained and violations are addressed. Islamabad is pressing for concrete action against the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), including dismantling militant sanctuaries and handing over key leadership operating from Afghanistan.
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To bolster trust, Pakistan has proposed involving neutral third-party observers to oversee the implementation of any agreed framework. Afghan officials attending the talks include Intelligence Chief Abdul Haq Wasiq, Deputy Interior Minister Rahmatullah Najib, Doha-based Taliban representatives Suhail Shahin and Ins Haqqani, among others.
Afghan sources described the initial session’s atmosphere as “good,” although structural differences remain. Pakistan demands an end to cross-border attacks, while the Taliban insist they do not harbor militants and stress respect for Afghan sovereignty.
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The success of this round is seen as a critical test for both neighbors, determining whether they can move from repeated conflicts toward a stable working relationship. The talks are scheduled to last two days but may be extended if progress appears likely.