Doha talks: 'Khawarij attacks unacceptable,' Pakistan tells Afghanistan

DOHA: The first round of talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan concluded in Doha, Qatar, with both sides agreeing to continue the dialogue on key security concerns. Sources said that discussions would resume tomorrow.

The high-level talks were held to ease border tensions between the two neighbors. Pakistan’s delegation was led by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and National Security Adviser Lt. Gen. (R) Asim Malik, while the Afghan delegation was headed by Defence Minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob and Intelligence Chief Mullah Wasiq.

According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan demanded an immediate end to cross-border attacks, stating that Islamabad would refrain from any retaliatory action if TTP attacks ceased.

Qatar played a facilitative role in organizing the discussions. The Pakistani side urged the Afghan Taliban to take “immediate and verifiable steps” to address Pakistan’s legitimate security concerns.

The meeting was held with a single-point agenda — to stop terrorist attacks in Pakistan by groups operating from Afghan soil.

Foreign Office Spokesperson confirmed that the talks focused on eliminating cross-border terrorism and promoting peace and stability. The Pakistani delegation took a firm stance, warning that any attacks by militants would be met with a strong response.

Both sides agreed to maintain the 48-hour temporary ceasefire during the dialogue process.

Pakistan also urged the Kabul administration to take verifiable action against terrorist outfits operating from its territory.

Appreciating Qatar’s mediation efforts, the Foreign Office termed the discussions a positive step toward lasting peace and stability in the region.