KABUL: The latest round of Afghanistan-Pakistan peace talks in Istanbul ended without agreement, with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan accusing Islamabad of insincerity and attempting to shift blame onto Afghanistan.
In an official clarification released by Zabihullah Mujahid on November 8, the Taliban government expressed gratitude to "the Republic of Turkey and the State of Qatar - the two brotherly countries - for hosting and mediating the talks." It added that Afghan representatives had attended "in good faith and with appropriate authority" on November 6 and 7, expecting Pakistan to approach the matter "seriously and constructively."
The statement said Pakistan displayed an "irresponsible and non-cooperative attitude," trying to "refer all responsibilities regarding its security to the Afghan government," while showing "no willingness to assume responsibility for either Afghanistan's security or its own." Acting on leadership instructions, the Afghan delegation had aimed for "a fundamental solution," but Pakistan's actions made the talks fruitless.
Criticising Islamabad's stance, the Taliban reiterated its "principled position" that Afghanistan will not allow its territory to be used against another country, nor permit any foreign nation to violate its sovereignty and independence. The statement emphasised that defending Afghanistan's people and territory remains "the Islamic and national duty" of the Emirate, vowing to "firmly defend against any aggression with the help of Allah and the support of its people."
While reaffirming ties with the "Muslim people of Pakistan," the Taliban stated it would only cooperate "within the limits of its responsibilities and capabilities." The statement reflected Afghanistan's frustration at Pakistan's repeated attempts to externalise internal security issues and its reluctance to commit to regional stability.
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admitted that the third round of talks had "reached an uncertain stage with no results" and said there are "no plans yet for a fourth round." Afghanistan's Minister for Tribes, Borders, and Tribal Affairs, Noorullah Noori, warned Pakistofficials "not to test the patience of Afghans" and cautioned Asif "not to be overly confident in his country's technology," adding that if conflict occurs, "both the elders and youth of Afghanistan will rise to fight."
Zabihullah Mujahid said in a press briefing on Saturday that the issue between the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Pakistan is long-standing, dating back to 2002, and did not emerge after the Islamic Emirate assumed power.
He added that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan had facilitated direct talks between the TTP and Pakistan, which were largely successful, but certain elements of the Pakistani military sabotaged the process. Mujahid also stated that some factions within the Pakistani military oppose a sovereign authority firmly established in Afghanistan.
The Istanbul talks, meant to reduce border tensions, exposed Pakistan's duplicity, deepening mistrust and raising the potential for confrontation. While the ceasefire remains along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Afghanistan suspects Pakistan may again launch unprovoked attacks, including drone strikes targeting civilians.
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