Pak-Afghan talks: Taliban refuse to commit to anything in writing at 3rd round

The third day of ongoing talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul has once again been marked by serious challenges and deadlock, according to diplomatic sources familiar with the negotiations.

Sources said Pakistan has presented a set of logical and well-reasoned demands, which both the host countries and even members of the Afghan Taliban delegation acknowledge as legitimate and fair. However, despite this understanding, the Afghan delegation has not yet agreed to fully accept these demands, creating an impasse in the dialogue.

Diplomatic insiders revealed that the Taliban delegation has been in constant contact with the Kabul administration, reportedly moving forward under its directives. “It would be fair to say that they are being controlled from Kabul,” one source noted, adding that this dependence has slowed progress on several key issues.

The Pakistani delegation, meanwhile, has maintained that its proposals are in the mutual interest of both sides and are essential for ensuring regional peace and stability. The host countries facilitating the Istanbul talks have also conveyed to the Afghan side that Pakistan’s demands are reasonable and aligned with broader security goals.

However, sources indicated that there has been no encouraging response from Kabul, which continues to stall the process. “It appears that certain elements within the Kabul administration are pursuing another agenda,” a source remarked, hinting at internal divisions within the Afghan leadership.

Despite the stalemate, Pakistan’s stance remains consistent, strong, and firmly rooted in logic and regional security imperatives, the sources added.

Reporter: Ahmed Mansoor