ISLAMABAD, Oct 28: Pakistan and Afghanistan wrapped up three days of negotiations in Türkiye on Monday without reaching a final agreement to ease growing cross-border tensions.
The talks, which began on Saturday, focused on military disputes and militant activity along the frontier, particularly the presence of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operating from Afghan soil.
While officials said most points had been agreed upon, the main obstacle remained a mechanism for verifiable action against terrorist groups.
Sources cited by Dawn described the discussions as constructive but difficult.
Early on Monday, both sides expressed optimism, calling the progress “encouraging” and the engagement “serious.”
However, by evening, hopes faded as the Taliban delegation reportedly resisted signing any written guarantees, especially regarding TTP activity. Pakistani negotiators had earlier presented their final position, leading to speculation that the talks could collapse, though Afghan officials maintained that remaining disagreements were “few” and “resolvable.”
Mediators from Türkiye and Qatar urged continued dialogue, viewing the sustained engagement as a sign of progress.
“Even without a breakthrough, staying at the table for three days is significant,” one mediator noted.
The talks follow deadly border clashes earlier this month that killed dozens on both sides.
Though a temporary peace was restored after discussions in Doha on October 19, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned of an “all-out war” if current talks fail. (AP)
