Pak-Taliban Talks in Doha Gain Ground as Third-Party Mediation Moves Border Dispute Forward

Pak-Taliban Talks in Doha: An important round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban is going to start in Doha (Qatar) on Friday. According to the report, this talk is being held under the mediation of a third country and its purpose is to reduce the increasing tension between the two countries. The main reason for these tensions is believed to be the increasing activities of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in recent months.

Top security officials of both countries included

According to sources, Pakistan's National Security Advisor and DG ISI Lieutenant General Asim Malik and Afghan Taliban's Defense Minister Mullah Yaqoob are likely to meet in Doha today. It is being said that some other ministers and senior security officials from both sides may also participate in this talk.

Kabul's objective—to create political identity on the global stage

A high-level delegation from Afghanistan is about to reach Doha. Kabul's aim through this dialogue is to strengthen its political legitimacy at the international level and to put pressure on Pakistan to formally recognize the Taliban regime. The Afghan side is seeing this meeting as an opportunity to prove that the Taliban is not subordinate to anyone but an independent and equal party.

Islamabad's priority—border stability & internal security

For Pakistan, this conversation is being considered as a serious attempt to stabilize its western frontier. Due to increasing violence by TTP, instability is increasing in areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Waziristan. Pakistan now wants to raise the issue through this dialogue platform that the Taliban should rein in TTP, because the Pakistani Army is facing fatigue and strategic weakness due to continuous terrorist attacks.

Possible ceasefire and terms

Sources reveal that the main focus of the talks will be on a possible ceasefire extension. Pakistan is expecting concrete security guarantees and anti-terrorism cooperation from the Taliban in return for any new agreement. In return, the Taliban will try to increase its political recognition and global acceptance.

Mediation role and deteriorating relationships

Relations between the two countries are extremely delicate at this time; hence, third-party mediation is considered necessary. Experts say that while Pakistan is giving priority to its security concerns, the Taliban wants to use this meeting as a platform to show its legitimacy and diplomatic power.