Pakistan and Afghan Taliban Begin High-Stakes Talks in Doha Amid Border Tensions

A high-level security delegation from Pakistan has arrived in Doha to hold talks aimed at easing the recent surge in cross-border tensions with the Afghan Taliban.

The delegation includes Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Gen. Asim Malik, head of Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI.

An Afghan delegation led by Defence Minister Mullah Md Yaqub Mujahid and Abdul Haq Wasiq, chief of the Islamic Emirate's intelligence agency, GDI, is expected to arrive in Doha tomorrow.

According to Afghan media, the 48-hour ceasefire between the two countries has been extended at Pakistan's request until the conclusion of the talks.

Facilitated by Qatari and Turkish authorities, the negotiations, scheduled for tomorrow mark the first formal engagement since last week's deadly clashes along the border.

The main focus of the talks is reportedly the extension of the ceasefire until the two parties can reach a solution to resolve their political and security conflicts, that have recently raised concerns among regional countries and international organisations.

In a post on X, the Taliban spokesperson, Zabiullah Mujahid said the Taliban "reserve the right to respond" to Pakistan's attacks but have temporarily halted military operations "out of respect" for the negotiation team in Doha.

He further warned that while Kabul seeks peaceful resolution, and facilitate positive developments in regional security with Islamabad, any further hostilities "will be the result of Pakistan's provocations."

Shafqat Ali Khan, spokesperson for Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said "Pakistan wants a peaceful, stable, friendly, inclusive, regionally connected, and prosperous Afghanistan," adding that Islamabad "expects Taliban to act responsibly, honour their commitments, and play a constructive role in achieving the shared goal of eliminating terrorism from their soil."