ISTANBUL: Pakistan has conveyed its final position to the Afghan Taliban on cross-border terrorism during the latest talks in Istanbul, security sources said.
According to the sources, Pakistan made it clear that the continued patronage of terrorist groups by the Afghan Taliban is unacceptable. The delegation emphasized that the Taliban regime must take concrete and verifiable measures to eliminate cross-border terrorism originating from and operating inside Afghanistan.
Security sources said the arguments presented by the Taliban were illogical and inconsistent with ground realities. “It appears the Taliban are pursuing another agenda or acting under external influence,” the sources added, noting that such a course of action is detrimental to the stability of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the broader region.
Further progress in the dialogue will depend on a positive and constructive attitude from the Afghan Taliban, the sources said.
During first round of talks, Pakistan and Afghanistan had reached a ceasefire agreement. The deal was brokered during talks held in the Qatari capital, Doha.
According to an official statement, the negotiations were mediated by both Qatar and Turkey. The two neighbouring countries have also agreed to hold further meetings in the coming days. The goal is to establish a permanent mechanism to ensure long-term peace and stability.
