Pakistan has agreed to reopen peace talks with the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul following a request from the host country, Turkey, aimed at reviving the stalled dialogue between the two sides. According to reliable sources, the Pakistani delegation earlier set to return home after the breakdown of talks has decided to extend its stay in Istanbul to resume discussions with the Taliban at the hosts’ request.
Sources said the move reflects Pakistan’s decision to give peace another chance by restarting the negotiation process. The talks will center on Pakistan’s core demand that Afghanistan take clear, verifiable, and effective action against terrorist groups operating from its territory.
Pakistan has once again stressed that Afghan soil must not be used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. Diplomatic exchanges have also taken place between Afghan officials and mediators, resulting in the resumption of dialogue between the two neighboring states. Turkey, which is facilitating the talks, is determined that the process under its auspices should produce meaningful outcomes.
Earlier, four rounds of extensive talks were held between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul, but progress was hindered by the Taliban’s inconsistent stance. Sources said that after consulting the Kabul administration, the Taliban delegation would often reverse its earlier commitments, suggesting external influence on Kabul’s position.
During the Istanbul sessions, the Taliban negotiators had, on multiple occasions, acknowledged Pakistan’s legitimate concerns before international mediators. However, their stance would shift following renewed contact with Kabul officials. Mediators also recognized Pakistan’s demands as justified and in line with regional stability.
Before the Istanbul dialogue, Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban had held talks in Doha, where both sides agreed to a ceasefire and to finalize a mechanism in Istanbul for counterterrorism monitoring and prevention. The renewed round of peace talks, now reconvened under Turkish facilitation, is expected to focus on rebuilding trust and advancing regional peace efforts.
