ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban are holding a second round of crucial talks in Turkey today. Both sides aim to establish a strong and verifiable monitoring system to combat terrorism. The meeting follows last week’s Doha talks, which resulted in a temporary ceasefire. Officials from both countries confirmed that today’s discussions will focus on preventing cross-border terrorism and ensuring peace along the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier.
During the talks, Pakistan seeks a firm agreement to stop terrorist attacks originating from Afghan soil. The discussions will center on building a clear mechanism to verify actions against terrorist groups. Pakistani officials stress the need for lasting cooperation and practical steps from the Afghan side. Both sides believe a structured approach will help avoid future misunderstandings and strengthen regional security.
Read more: Pakistan, Afghanistan extend truce until end of Doha talks
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that an Afghan delegation led by Deputy Interior Minister Haji Najeeb has arrived in Turkey. Pakistan’s delegation includes senior officials focused on defense and national security. Both parties have expressed hope that the Istanbul talks will build on the progress made in Doha. The dialogue is seen as a continuation of efforts to restore trust and ensure mutual respect between the two neighbors.
In the first round of talks held in Doha six days ago, Pakistan was represented by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and National Security Adviser Lt. Gen. Asim Malik (Retd.). The Afghan team was led by Acting Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob and intelligence chief Maulvi Abdul Haq. That meeting, mediated by Qatar and Turkey, ended with a ceasefire agreement and a shared pledge to eliminate terrorism. The current round in Turkey aims to solidify those commitments.
Read more: Historic Pakistan-Afghanistan Talks in Istanbul Aim to Tackle Terrorism
Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi said that the ceasefire agreed in Doha has largely held over the past week. He noted that no major terrorist attacks from Afghan territory have occurred recently. Andarabi added that Afghan Transit Trade remains suspended until security reviews are complete. He expressed optimism that the Istanbul talks will sustain the positive trend and deepen cooperation. Pakistan’s main demand remains clear — Afghan soil must never be used for attacks against Pakistan.