Pakistan, Afghanistan talks in Istanbul enter second day as both sides seek de-escalation
ISLAMABAD: The second round of peace talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan to firm up an uneasy truce is still underway in Istanbul, with discussions focused on a three-point agenda that includes setting up a joint monitoring and oversight mechanism to curb cross-border militant movement, Pakistani state media reported on Sunday.
The talks in Istanbul, which began on Saturday and are expected to continue into Sunday, mark the latest attempt by Pakistan and Afghanistan to prevent a relapse into violence after the worst border fighting since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover of Kabul.
Clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan erupted earlier this month after Islamabad demanded the Taliban rein in militants it says are attacking Pakistan from sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. Kabul denies the allegations.
Pakistan launched airstrikes across the border earlier this month, after which both sides exchanged heavy fire, killing dozens and prompting the closure of key crossings that remain shut. Both countries reached a ceasefire agreement last week thanks to mediation from Qatar and Turkiye, and agreed to meet in Istanbul on Oct. 25 to ensure the peace lasts.
