ISLAMABAD: Efforts to revive dialogue between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban collapsed in Istanbul this week, as both sides failed to reach common ground despite mediation by Turkey and Qatar.
The breakdown marked another setback in regional peace efforts, with officials confirming that no further talks are currently planned.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced that the negotiation process has effectively ended, saying, “Our return empty-handed shows that even the mediators have now given up hope.”
He, however, expressed appreciation for Turkey and Qatar, acknowledging their sincerity and consistent support for Pakistan’s position during the discussions.
According to Khawaja Asif, the Afghan delegation demanded that Pakistan accept verbal assurances instead of signing a written agreement — a condition Islamabad rejected. “In international diplomacy, final commitments must be put in writing,” the minister stated, adding that while the Afghan side agreed with Pakistan’s concerns verbally, they refused to formalize those understandings, leading to a complete impasse.
He went on to warn that if terrorist attacks originate from Afghan territory, Pakistan will respond in kind. However, if no cross-border aggression occurs, the existing ceasefire will continue to hold.
The minister emphasized that Pakistan’s only demand is for Afghanistan to prevent its soil from being used against Pakistan. He noted that a written agreement would serve the best interests of both countries and contribute to lasting peace and regional stability.
Khawaja Asif further said that if the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) elements are beyond the control of the Afghan Taliban, then Pakistan should be allowed to take necessary action against them inside Afghanistan without interference from Kabul.
The Istanbul negotiations, which entered their third round earlier this week, ended in a deadlock as mediators failed to secure consensus on a formal cooperation framework.
The failure underscores the growing frustration among regional stakeholders seeking to de-escalate tensions and foster stability along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
