The important second round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban is taking place today in Turkey. Both parties aim to establish a strong and verifiable system to counter terrorism threats effectively.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi and Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid have confirmed the talks in Istanbul. The discussion is focused on stopping terrorism from Afghan territories that may harm Pakistan and preventing further Pakistani casualties.
The meeting agenda includes building a clear and reliable framework to combat these threats. Pakistan backs the creation of a solid and effective system against terrorism.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid announced that an Afghan team, led by Deputy Interior Minister Haji Najeeb, has left for Turkey to join the discussions.
Six days ago, the first round of discussions between Pakistani and Taliban teams ended in Doha. The Pakistani side was headed by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif with National Security Adviser Lt. Gen. Asim Malik (Retd.), while the Afghan side was led by Acting Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob along with intelligence head Maulvi Abdul Haq.
Facilitated by Qatar and Turkey, the first round led to a ceasefire agreement and a pledge to combat terrorism jointly.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi stated in his first weekly update that Afghan Transit Trade is still on hold pending a security review. He remarked that the ceasefire agreed upon in Doha is mostly being respected.