Afghanistan, Pakistan Reach Multiple Agreements In Istanbul Talks: Sources

Afghanistan, Pakistan Reach Multiple Agreements In Istanbul Talks: Sources

In a significant development, Pakistan and Afghanistan have likely reached multiple agreements during peace talks in Istanbul, with a joint statement expected to be released later tonight, sources told CNN-News18.

Sources said that most key points have been agreed upon by both delegations, marking a potential breakthrough in the latest round of dialogue aimed at easing cross-border tensions.

The joint statement following the talks is expected to address a ceasefire extension, the reopening of roads between the two countries, the location and timing of future meetings, and other outstanding issues, according to sources familiar with the matter speaking to the Afghan media.

The peace talks between the two nations entered their third day on Monday.

The talks come a day after US President Donald Trump vowed to resolve the crisis between the two neighbours “very quickly" and as tensions along the border remain high following recent exchanges of fire that have killed dozens of soldiers and civilians on both sides.

The clashes prompted Qatar to host the first round of negotiations that led to a cease-fire agreement on October 19 between Islamabad and Kabul.

Afghan media on Monday quoted Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesman for Afghanistan's Taliban government, as saying the Istanbul discussions were in progress. Pakistani officials also confirmed the talks are underway.

Earlier, it was reported that discussions hit a deadlock over written guarantees, refugee repatriation, and broader security concerns.

The breakdown in talks between the former allies was reported to be primarily because of Pakistan's high-handedness and its mistrust of the Taliban leadership. Islamabad had demanded written assurances that Afghan soil would not be used by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which is responsible for a fresh wave of violence in Pakistan's border districts, but the Taliban refused.

Pakistan's army said Sunday it had killed 25 militants while “repelling two major infiltration attempts" along the border, even as delegations were talking in Istanbul. It also said five Pakistani soldiers had died during exchanges of fire.

Pakistan has accused the Taliban-led government of not doing enough to control militants, particularly the TTP, as it has faced renewed violence in border districts since the Taliban's takeover in 2021. In response, Kabul has rejected the accusations, stating that Pakistan is responsible for its own security.

Source: News18
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