Pakistan rejects Afghan’s TTP relocation offer in Second round of Pak-Afghan talks
Istanbul, Türkiye — The second round of high-level peace talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban concluded in Istanbul, with Pakistan firmly rejecting Afghanistan’s proposal to relocate members of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to another location. Instead, Islamabad urged Kabul to take decisive and concrete action against the group, sources told ARY News.
Talks Focused on Border Peace and Security Mechanisms
Diplomatic sources revealed that the negotiations continued for nine hours and primarily focused on developing a joint monitoring and oversight mechanism to curb cross-border milit@nt movements and strengthen border stability. Both sides also discussed measures to address trade barriers and promote economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
Officials confirmed that the discussions included exploring options for a long-term political understanding between Islamabad and Kabul, aimed at fostering sustainable peace in the region.
Background: Ceasefire Agreement in Doha
Before the Istanbul meeting, Pakistan and Afghanistan reached a temporary ceasefire agreement in Doha following 13 hours of negotiations hosted by Qatari officials. According to the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both countries agreed to establish a permanent mechanism for mutual peace and stability to prevent future cross-border escalations.
The Ministry stated that the measures would “strengthen peace, stability, and cooperation between the two brotherly Islamic nations,” and lay the groundwork for ending border tensions in the long term.
Pakistan’s Response and Regional Diplomacy
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed the developments on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the ceasefire represents a significant step toward ending militant activity originating from Afghan territory. He emphasized that both sides have agreed to respect each other’s territorial sovereignty, a key element in improving trust and coordination between the two nations.
Khawaja Asif also expressed gratitude to Qatar and Türkiye for facilitating the peace dialogue and mediating the negotiation process. The Defence Minister confirmed that a follow-up session will take place in Istanbul on October 25, where both sides are expected to review progress on implementing the agreed measures.
Significance of the Talks
This latest round of talks marks a critical moment in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, highlighting Islamabad’s firm stance against any compromise on groups involved in milit@nt activities. Analysts believe that continued dialogue, backed by regional cooperation and international mediation, could pave the way for long-term peace and stability in South Asia.
As both governments prepare for the next meeting, the success of these talks will depend on practical implementation, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to combating extremism for regional peace.
