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| Photo File (Tomorrow's Affairs) |
The next round of peace talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban is scheduled to take place today in Istanbul, amid renewed efforts to end cross-border militant attacks and stabilize regional peace.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated that talks are pursued only when there is a realistic chance of progress, adding, “Negotiations are meaningful only if there is hope of advancement; otherwise, they are a waste of time.” He reiterated that Pakistan’s primary demand remains unchanged — that Afghanistan must ensure its soil is not used for attacks against Pakistan.
The minister expressed optimism that the Taliban leadership would act “wisely” to promote peace across the region.
Earlier, the second round of talks, held on October 25 in Istanbul, ended inconclusively after tense negotiations failed to produce agreement on Pakistan’s single-point demand regarding cross-border terrorism. Reports suggested that the Afghan delegation repeatedly sought instructions from Kabul and Kandahar, causing significant delays.
Following that setback, the Pakistani delegation had initially prepared to return home. However, at Turkey’s request, both sides agreed to give diplomacy one last chance, resuming talks at the Istanbul Airport before scheduling this final round.
According to a statement from the Turkish Foreign Ministry, both sides have agreed to maintain the ceasefire, establish a monitoring and verification mechanism, and impose penalties for violations. The high-level meeting today is expected to finalize these measures and determine a roadmap for lasting peace.
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