ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has voiced optimism about the upcoming talks with the Afghan Taliban, set to take place on November 6, hoping for fruitful outcomes from the dialogue.
Addressing the media during his weekly briefing on Friday, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that Pakistan remains committed to contributing to the reconciliation process and looks forward to promising results from the scheduled discussions.
The prior negotiations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul had collapsed. However, following a request from the host country, both sides agreed to restart their stalled talks in the city.
The Foreign Office spokesperson highlighted that the second round of discussions between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban concluded in Istanbul on Thursday evening under the guidance of mediators.
He underlined that Pakistan approached the Istanbul talks, which began on October 25, with sincerity and a constructive attitude. Andrabi also noted that while the discussions were initially planned for two days, they extended to four days, reflecting Pakistan’s serious efforts to reach a mutual understanding with the Taliban administration.
During these talks, Pakistan engaged constructively but firmly maintained its stance that Afghan soil must not be used for terrorism against Pakistan.
Andrabi stressed that Pakistan is not seeking escalation but expects the Taliban leadership to honor its commitments to the international community and act decisively against terrorist groups such as Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, which endanger Pakistan’s security concerns.
He emphasized that for over four years, Pakistan has urged the Afghan Taliban to take effective action against terror outfits operating from Afghan territory. Despite repeated assurances, attacks from Afghan soil on Pakistan have intensified.
Andrabi noted that credible intelligence had been shared with the Taliban about the presence of senior leaders of Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan in Afghanistan, yet no substantial action had been taken.
In October, unprovoked aggression was reported along the border, with attacks launched into Pakistani territory from Afghanistan. In response, Pakistan took strong countermeasures in defense of its border areas.
Tahir Andrabi reiterated that while Pakistan desires peace and maintains hope for a positive resolution in the upcoming November 6 dialogue, it will do everything necessary to safeguard its sovereignty and citizens. He also appreciated the constructive roles played by Qatar and Turkey in facilitating these discussions.
