The second round of peace talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan began in Istanbul on Saturday. The negotiations aim to create a joint mechanism to counter cross-border terrorism and improve regional security.
According to officials, Pakistan’s delegation is focusing on achieving verifiable measures to curb terrorism originating from Afghan territory. The Afghan team is being led by Deputy Interior Minister Rahmatullah Mujib.
Doha Talks Laid Groundwork for Ceasefire
The Istanbul discussions follow the first round of Pakistan-Afghanistan talks held in Doha on October 19. Those meetings were mediated by Qatar and Turkiye, resulting in a temporary ceasefire agreement. However, border trade between the two nations remains suspended despite progress on security coordination.
Pakistan Calls for Verifiable Monitoring Mechanism
During a recent briefing, Pakistan’s Foreign Office emphasized the need for a “concrete and verifiable” system to address terrorism emanating from Afghan soil. The spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan seeks peace and does not desire escalation. However, the Afghan Taliban authorities must fulfill their commitments and take credible action against terrorist groups such as the TTP and BLA.
He described the Doha round as the first step toward regional stability, focusing on ending cross-border terrorism and restoring calm along the border areas. He also noted that there had been no major terrorist incidents in the last few days, terming it a positive sign of the initial dialogue’s outcome.
Security Remains a Priority
The spokesperson confirmed that border crossings with Afghanistan would remain closed for now due to ongoing security concerns. He stated that protecting citizens’ lives takes precedence over trade or goods movement, highlighting the government’s commitment to national security.
Defence Minister Warns of Consequences if Talks Fail
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who led Pakistan’s delegation in the first round, issued a stern warning that failure of the talks could lead to an “all-out war.” Speaking to reporters in Sialkot, he expressed cautious optimism, saying the outcome of the Istanbul talks would be known soon.
He noted that the border had remained peaceful over the last several days and that 80 percent of points agreed upon during the Doha talks were being implemented. Asif also accused India of using Afghan elements to wage a proxy war against Pakistan.
Despite tensions, he voiced hope that both nations could agree on a lasting peace framework ensuring stability across the region. He recalled that the Doha talks reflected a genuine desire for peace, though he regretted Afghanistan’s continued support for groups attacking Pakistan despite decades of Pakistani hospitality toward Afghan refugees.
Border Situation Remains Tense
Border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been closed since October 11, following deadly clashes earlier this month that left dozens dead on both sides. The confrontation, the most severe since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover of Kabul, erupted after Pakistan demanded that Kabul act against militant groups using Afghan territory for attacks.
Although the ceasefire reached last week remains intact, border trade is still suspended. The ongoing Istanbul talks are seen as a critical opportunity to stabilize the border and lay the foundation for sustained peace and cooperation between the two neighbors.
