Pakistan-Afghan Taliban Talks Collapse in Istanbul Due to Sticking Points on Counter-Terrorism Demands

A three-day negotiation session between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban ended abruptly in Istanbul, Turkey, without reaching an agreement due to the Afghan Taliban's reluctance to rein in terrorist networks operating in Afghanistan and carry out strikes against Pakistani militants. The talks, which lasted for 18 hours, were marked by tense exchanges between the two parties, particularly over Pakistan's demands for credible action against terrorist outfits based in Afghanistan.

Key Takeaways:

• The Afghan Taliban delegation repeatedly agreed with Pakistan's demand for decisive action against terrorist networks based in Afghanistan, but their stance changed after receiving instructions from Kabul.
• The Taliban delegation claimed they have no control over the Pakistan Taliban (TTP), a demand repeatedly pressed by Pakistan during the talks.
• Pakistan's negotiators confirmed that the major sticking point in the negotiations was Kabul's reluctance to make a commitment to rein in the TTP.
• The host countries, Turkey and Qatar, are trying to resume the talks despite the deadlock, and a final effort is underway to resolve the matter through logic and dialogue.
• Pakistani officials believe that some elements in Kabul are working on a separate agenda, preventing the negotiations from progressing.
• The Pakistani delegation has maintained its stance that accepting Islamabad's counter-terrorism demands is in the interest of all parties involved.

Statistics:

• The talks lasted for 18 hours over three days.
• The Pakistani delegation repeatedly demanded credible and decisive action against terrorist outfits based in Afghanistan.
• The Afghan Taliban delegation claimed they have no control over the Pakistan Taliban (TTP).

Sources:

• Sources (no specific date mentioned)
• Official sources