Focus remains on cross-border terrorism; Pakistan calls militant presence in Afghanistan “unacceptable”
DOHA: Pakistan and Afghanistan on Saturday completed the first round of Qatar-mediated talks in Doha, aimed at addressing escalating tensions and cross-border security concerns, diplomatic sources told Geo News.
According to the sources, the discussions centered on infiltration by militant groups operating from Afghan territory into Pakistan. Both sides agreed to continue the dialogue, with the second round scheduled to take place tomorrow morning.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif led the Pakistani delegation, accompanied by senior security officials, while Afghanistan’s Defence Minister Mullah Yaqoob headed the Afghan side, joined by the country’s intelligence chief and key officials.
During the talks, Pakistan conveyed that the presence and activities of militant groups in Afghanistan were “unacceptable”, urging Kabul to take concrete steps to prevent cross-border attacks.
Earlier, the Foreign Office confirmed that the Pakistani delegation’s visit to Doha was part of efforts to engage the Afghan authorities on security cooperation.
“The discussions focused on immediate measures to end cross-border terrorism against Pakistan emanating from Afghanistan and to restore peace and stability along the border,” the FO said, adding that Islamabad appreciated Qatar’s mediation in facilitating the dialogue.
This meeting marks a renewed diplomatic push to reduce tensions between Islamabad and Kabul following months of increasing border incidents and militant incursions.
