Pakistan rejects Afghan Taliban's offer to relocate TTP
Talks are likely to continue for three days
The second round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban concluded late Saturday night in Istanbul, following more than nine hours of intense negotiations, diplomatic sources confirmed.
The discussions, which began at 2:30 p.m. and continued through a working dinner, were hosted by Turkey and centered on regional security, counterterrorism efforts, and the activities of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operating from Afghan soil.
According to diplomatic sources, the Afghan Taliban delegation proposed relocating TTP militants to a new area within Afghanistan as a possible step toward easing tensions with Pakistan. However, Islamabad rejected the offer, maintaining its position that the Afghan Taliban must take “decisive action” against the group rather than relocate it.
Pakistan’s delegation reportedly reiterated that the Afghan authorities must honor their commitments to prevent Afghan territory from being used for terrorism and fulfill the promises made to the international community under earlier agreements.
The talks, described as “frank and focused,” come amid renewed cross-border tensions and a surge in attacks inside Pakistan linked to TTP elements.
Diplomatic observers say the Istanbul talks reflect ongoing international efforts to bridge differences and strengthen regional cooperation against militancy. Further consultations between Islamabad and Kabul are expected in the coming weeks as both sides continue to seek mechanisms to address security and border management challenges.
Talks are expected to continue for three days
Both sides will hold further discussions on forming a robust mechanism to combat terrorism.
Besides that, the proposals given by Pakistan to stop the infiltration of militants from Afghanistan would also come under discussion.
On the other hand, hundreds of vehicles are stranded at border crossings at Torkham, Kharlachi, Angoor Adda, Ghulam Khan, Chaman, south and north Waziristan and district Kurram for the last 15 days due to the closure of these routes.
The last round of talks had been held in Doha, Qatar following which both countries had agreed on a ceasefire.