Khawaja Asif says no breakthrough yet in Pakistan-Afghanistan talks

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that there has been no significant progress in the ongoing talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and it is too early to attach high hopes to the dialogue process.

Speaking to Geo News, Asif said discussions with the Afghan Taliban have yet to produce any breakthrough. “So far, there has been no progress that would allow us to be optimistic,” he remarked.

He added that Qatar’s defence minister and Turkey’s intelligence chief are making efforts to ensure the continuation of talks and prevent any breakdown in communication. “Our delegation was at the airport to return home last night, but Qatar and Turkey requested that we give them another opportunity to mediate,” Asif said.

He confirmed that Pakistan had agreed to resume talks with Afghanistan at Turkey’s request. “We were informed that discussions with the Kabul delegation would continue in an attempt to find a way forward. The talks have not yet restarted, but our delegation remains in Istanbul,” he stated.

According to the minister, any progress in negotiations would depend on a change in Kabul’s approach. “If our friendly countries can convince Afghanistan to stop supporting terrorist elements, that would be a key development,” he said.

Asif emphasised that the basis of all conditions is peace, and without peace, no advancement can be achieved. “If terrorism or support for the TTP continues at India’s behest, there can be no way forward,” he cautioned.

He further said that trade and other positive developments would only be possible once peace and mutual trust are restored. “If they remain obstinate or act as India’s proxy, then nothing can be done. But if Pakistan’s peace is threatened, we will respond accordingly,” he warned.