Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban are holding the second round of bilateral talks in Istanbul today (Saturday). The discussions aim to finalize a post-ceasefire monitoring system to prevent cross-border terrorism and strengthen regional stability.
The Foreign Office confirmed that no major terrorist attacks have taken place from Afghan soil in recent days. Officials called it a positive outcome of the ceasefire agreement reached in Doha earlier this week.
At his weekly media briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the ceasefire “has largely held.” He added that “no major terrorist attack from Afghan soil has occurred in the last two to three days.” Andrabi described the Doha talks as “fruitful” and expressed hope that the same progress would continue in Istanbul.
He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s main expectation remains unchanged — Afghan territory must not be used for terrorist acts against Pakistan. The Doha ceasefire, he explained, was finalized through delegation-level meetings led by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, which focused on ensuring border peace and eliminating cross-border terrorism.
Andrabi also said that Afghan transit trade will remain suspended until the security situation improves. He revealed that armed attacks had been carried out against Pakistan at several border points linked to Afghan trade routes, resulting in casualties. “The lives of our citizens are more important than any trade,” he emphasized.
The Istanbul talks, hosted by Türkiye, are expected to finalize a joint monitoring framework to ensure that both sides comply with the ceasefire and avoid future violations. Andrabi said Pakistan would participate with “sincerity and honesty,” stressing that its only demand is for Afghan soil not to be used against it.
Meanwhile, Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that the meeting would focus on maintaining the ceasefire and establishing a reliable system to monitor it.
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Through these continued diplomatic engagements, Pakistan aims to promote regional peace, strengthen border security, and foster long-term cooperation with Afghanistan.
