A new round of high-level talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban has concluded. The meetings took place in Istanbul, following an initial round in Doha.
According to diplomatic sources, the discussions lasted for nine hours. A key point of discussion was the ongoing threat posed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Sources revealed that Pakistan took a firm position during the talks. The Afghan side proposed relocating the TTP to a new area.
Pakistan categorically rejected this offer. Instead, Pakistani officials urged Afghanistan to fulfill its promise of taking decisive action against the militant group. The focus remains on eliminating the threat, not moving it.
Read: Pakistan-Afghanistan Ceasefire Extended for Doha Talks
These talks build on a recent ceasefire agreement. That agreement was announced after 13 hours of negotiations in Doha, facilitated by Qatar.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, confirmed the ceasefire on social media. He stated it marks an end to terrorist activity from Afghan soil into Pakistan. Both nations agreed to respect each other’s territorial sovereignty. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to ensure the ceasefire holds.
The discussions in Istanbul also explored broader issues. Officials worked on establishing a joint mechanism to monitor cross-border terrorist movements.
They also addressed trade barriers between the two countries. The goal is to reach a long-term political understanding that ensures regional peace and stability.
