Pakistan commits to resolving differences with Afghanistan through dialogue but insists its core security concern over terrorism must be addressed first
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue with Afghanistan despite the conclusion of peace talks following deadly cross-border violence.
The foreign ministry acknowledged that the third round of negotiations in Istanbul concluded on Friday without agreement.
“Pakistan remains committed to resolution of bilateral differences through dialogue,” the ministry stated.
However, Islamabad emphasised that its “core concern, i.e. terrorism emanating from Afghanistan needs to be addressed first and foremost.”
Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban government of harbouring militant groups, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The ministry claimed the Taliban government avoided “taking any measures on ground and tried to back out of the commitments they had undertaken at the first round.”
This statement came a day after the Afghan government said its ceasefire with Pakistan would remain despite the failed talks.
Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid blamed Islamabad’s “irresponsible and uncooperative” approach for the breakdown.
“During the discussions, the Pakistani side attempted to shift all responsibility for its security to the Afghan government,” Mujahid wrote on social media.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism that mediation was moving “in the right direction.”
“We’re hoping for positive results,” Erdogan told reporters, adding that senior Turkish officials would likely visit Islamabad soon.
Pakistan also accuses Afghanistan of acting with support from India, Islamabad’s historical rival.
Afghanistan wants its territorial sovereignty respected and accuses Pakistan of supporting armed groups against it.
Both sides have threatened a resumption of hostilities that killed more than 70 people and wounded hundreds last month. – AFP
