Pakistan Agrees to Resume Peace Talks With Afghanistan in Istanbul

Pakistan has agreed to restart peace talks with the Afghan Taliban government in Istanbul, according to reports from a private Pakistani news channel on Thursday.

The decision comes after earlier discussions ended without an agreement, but Islamabad has now chosen to give diplomacy another chance. Pakistani officials have extended their stay in Turkey to continue the dialogue.

Focus of the New Round

This will be the third round of talks.
The discussions will mainly focus on:

• Action against terrorist groups

• Ensuring Afghan soil is not used against Pakistan

• Improving security along the border

Pakistan wants firm guarantees that militant groups will not operate against Pakistan from Afghan territory.

Earlier Talks Ended Without Progress

On Wednesday, Pakistan’s information minister announced that the previous round of talks ended without a deal.
Islamabad accused Kabul’s delegation of blocking progress, adding that the lack of agreement creates uncertainty in efforts to stabilize ties.

Border Tensions Background

The latest push for talks follows deadly border clashes, which killed several people on both sides — the most serious violence since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.

Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns over cross-border militancy, while Afghanistan has urged Pakistan to use diplomacy instead of force.

Despite challenges, Pakistan has signaled that dialogue remains the best way forward to protect peace and secure the region.