DOHA: The first round of talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan concluded in Doha, according to informed sources.
The next session, scheduled for tomorrow morning, will focus on cross-border infiltration by militant groups operating from Afghan territory. Sources said Pakistan’s delegation was led by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, while the Afghan side was headed by Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob.
Senior Pakistani security officials accompanied Khawaja Asif during the discussions, while Afghanistan’s intelligence chief was also part of Kabul’s delegation. During the meeting, Pakistan firmly conveyed that the presence and activities of militant groups on Afghan soil were unacceptable.
Earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that a high-level Pakistani delegation led by Khawaja Asif was in Doha to hold talks with representatives of the Afghan Taliban. The ministry said the discussions were aimed at “taking immediate steps to stop cross-border terrorism against Pakistan originating from Afghanistan” and restoring stability along the shared border.
Pakistan reiterated that it does not seek escalation and urged the Afghan Taliban to uphold their commitments to the international community by taking verifiable action against terrorist organisations such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
The Foreign Office also acknowledged Qatar’s mediation role, expressing hope that the Doha dialogue would contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region.
Meanwhile, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that an Afghan delegation, led by Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob, had departed for Doha, saying: “As promised, negotiations with the Pakistani side will take place today in Doha.”
Read Also:Islamabad, Kabul must agree on clear rules for coexistence: Khawaja Saad Rafique
