The third round of talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban government, aimed at ending cross-border terrorism, continued for the second day in Istanbul. The negotiations, being held under the mediation of Türkiye and Qatar at the Conrad Hotel, are taking place under strict media restrictions. Their main objective is to finalize a framework for monitoring and verifying counterterrorism commitments made by both sides. The intelligence chiefs of Pakistan and Afghanistan are leading their respective delegations.

Mediators Fully Support Pakistan’s Demands
At his weekly press briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said that the Pakistani delegation presented its demands to the mediators in a comprehensive, evidence-based, and logical manner. He emphasized that the only purpose of these demands is to end cross-border terrorism.
“The mediators have fully endorsed Pakistan’s position based on the evidence we provided and in line with international law,” Andrabi said. He added that the mediators are now discussing Pakistan’s demands point by point with the Afghan delegation.

Clear Demand to Disassociate from TTP
According to sources, Pakistan has urged the Afghan Taliban to clearly disassociate themselves from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and to take firm, practical action against anti-Pakistan elements operating from Afghan soil.
Islamabad has asked Kabul to issue a clear decree expressing its commitment to distancing itself from the Pakistani Taliban and all groups working under the TTP umbrella. The news outlet Khorasan Diary has also confirmed the existence of this “evidence-based list of demands.”

Progress Encouraging but Concrete Guarantees Still Difficult
According to Dawn News, sources familiar with the talks have described the progress so far as “encouraging,” suggesting that “some remaining issues might be resolved.” However, they cautioned that reaching an agreement that ensures verifiable enforcement against militant groups remains difficult.
Reports indicate that both sides may reach an understanding on counterterrorism cooperation and border security protocols. However, persistent mistrust and Kabul’s unclear stance on the TTP continue to be major obstacles to a lasting agreement. Officials have indicated that the discussions may be extended beyond today if necessary.