Pakistan Expresses Frustration Over Taliban Delays in Istanbul Talks
Pakistan on Sunday openly criticized the Afghan Taliban regime for stalling the Istanbul process, urging concrete steps against terrorist elements and a commitment to prevent cross-border violence. The statement marks a sharper public stance as Islamabad reiterates its expectations that talks lead to tangible security gains along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.
Officials said Islamabad appreciated the mediation efforts of Turkey and Qatar but emphasized that delays and evasive language on critical counter-terrorism commitments are unacceptable. The diplomatic tension underscores the fragile balance in regional diplomacy where Pakistan seeks procedural progress and verifiable action rather than mere assurances.
Key Demands: Border Handovers and Counter-Terrorism Action
Central to Pakistan’s push is the handover of militants who operate across the border, a long-standing demand framed within broader efforts to curb cross-border terrorism. Pakistani authorities argue that without credible action against terrorist networks and safe havens, talks risk becoming a façade that yields little in terms of security for ordinary citizens living near the border regions.
In addition to border cooperation, Islamabad is pressing for concrete counter-terrorism steps. This includes enhanced sharing of intelligence, coordinated operations against groups designated as terrorists, and commitments to prevent planning and financing from areas under Taliban influence. The emphasis on action reflects Pakistan’s experience with the persistent threat of violence along the Durand Line and the heavy toll it has taken on civilian life and regional stability.
International Mediation: Turkey and Qatar’s Role
Pakistan acknowledged the important role played by Turkey and Qatar in facilitating dialogue and maintaining a channel for communication with the Taliban leadership. Ankara and Doha are seen as pivotal regional partners capable of leveraging influence to steer discussions toward practical outcomes. However, Pakistan’s public censure signals that mediation alone is insufficient without deliverables.
Observers note that Turkey and Qatar find themselves balancing mutual interests with the broader goal of stabilizing the region, including ensuring that Afghanistan does not relapse into renewed chaos or become a safe haven for terrorist networks. Islamabad’s message could push the mediators to press for verifiable commitments and timelines from the Taliban regime.
From Islamabad: The Afghan Regime’s Accountability Question
Pakistan’s foreign office spokesperson criticized the Afghan Taliban regime for failing to act against terrorists operating under its purview. The statement framed the issue as one of accountability: if Kabul cannot or will not act, it undermines confidence in any negotiated settlement that relies on Taliban assurances alone.
Historically, Pakistan has sought a stable and peaceful Afghanistan, recognizing that instability in Kabul directly affects security inside Pakistan. The current stance appears to reflect a desire for a more assertive and verifiable approach from the Afghan authorities, with consequences if commitments are not honored.
What This Means for the Istanbul Talks
The Istanbul talks are a critical forum for defining security, humanitarian, and political arrangements in the region. Pakistan’s insistence on concrete steps suggests a shift toward outcome-oriented diplomacy. If the Taliban regime remains reticent or uncooperative, the talks risk stalling or losing momentum, complicating efforts to establish a durable regional framework for peace and counter-terrorism.
Meanwhile, Turkey and Qatar are likely to face renewed pressure to convert dialogue into measurable action. Western and regional observers will be watching closely to see whether the Taliban can demonstrate willingness to curb extremist activity and prevent cross-border threats that undermine peace processes.
Conclusion: A Test of Will and Diplomacy
Pakistan’s stance embodies a broader regional demand: talks must be anchored in tangible security commitments, not rhetoric. As mediation continues, the pressure on the Afghan regime to act against terrorists and cooperate on border security will determine whether the Istanbul process can deliver durable stability in a volatile neighborhood.
