Afghanistan and Pakistan Resume Peace Talks in Istanbul Amid Rising Border Tensions

Afghanistan and Pakistan Resume Peace Talks in Istanbul Amid Rising Border Tensions
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Afghanistan and Pakistan have resumed peace talks in Istanbul after earlier negotiations broke down, with Turkey and Qatar mediating renewed efforts to ease escalating border tensions, Khaama Press reported.

The fourth round of dialogue between Kabul and Islamabad began on Thursday afternoon, following the collapse of previous discussions earlier in the week. Turkish and Qatari diplomats are facilitating the process, which aims to establish mechanisms for border security and revive suspended intelligence-sharing agreements.

The prior round ended in deadlock on Tuesday after four days of talks, with both sides exchanging blame. Pakistan accused the Taliban administration of failing to act against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants operating from Afghan territory, while Taliban officials said Islamabad was violating Afghanistan’s sovereignty.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that progress depends on the Taliban showing “a change in attitude” toward cross-border militancy. He also alleged that foreign interference — particularly from India — had undermined earlier peace efforts.

Diplomatic sources told The Express Tribune that mediators from Turkey and Qatar have proposed confidence-building measures such as joint patrols and information-sharing along the disputed Durand Line. These steps are seen as critical to preventing another collapse in dialogue.

Analysts say the outcome of the Istanbul talks will be crucial for shaping the future of Afghanistan–Pakistan relations and regional stability. Failure to reach an understanding, they warn, could embolden militant groups and deepen tensions along the border.