ISLAMABAD — Pakistan and Afghanistan held high-level talks in Doha on Saturday, mediated by Qatar, in an effort to ease tensions after a week of deadly cross-border clashes. While discussions continued late into the night, officials said a breakthrough was still uncertain.
The meeting was led by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, along with National Security Adviser and ISI Chief Lt Gen Asim Malik. The Afghan delegation included Acting Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob Mujahid and Intelligence Chief Maulvi Abdul Haq Wasiq.
Read More: Doha Talks End with Pakistan-Afghanistan Ceasefire Agreement
Diplomatic sources said Pakistan made it clear that the presence of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) on Afghan soil was “not acceptable” and demanded verifiable action against the group. The Taliban side reportedly asked for specific evidence of TTP hideouts and promised to address concerns “to Pakistan’s satisfaction,” though they said it was “unrealistic” to expect a complete halt to TTP activity.
Talks were held in a “cordial but cautious” atmosphere, with participants consulting their leadership throughout the session. A joint statement is expected after further discussions on Sunday.
Tensions between the two neighbours have been rising since Pakistan carried out airstrikes on suspected TTP sanctuaries inside Afghanistan on October 9. The Taliban responded with cross-border attacks that killed 23 Pakistani troops, prompting further counterstrikes by Islamabad. A temporary ceasefire was agreed to on Thursday and later extended, though brief exchanges continued Friday night.
Read More: Pakistan Seeks Decisive Taliban Action Against Cross-Border Attacks
Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Pakistan’s strikes targeted verified militant camps and rejected Afghan claims of civilian casualties. He also rebuked the International Cricket Council (ICC) for “biased and premature” comments suggesting Afghan cricketers had died in the strikes, urging the body to maintain neutrality.
As tensions lingered, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim offered to mediate between Islamabad and Kabul, speaking separately with both leaders to help promote peace in the region.