Pak-Afghan talks in Saudi Arabia fruitless, says Ishaq Dar: Tolo News

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed fruitless talks with Afghanistan in Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Qatar. He stated that improved relations depend on Afghanistan's commitment to counterterrorism pledges, according to a Tolo News report.

Following the fruitless end to talks between delegations from Afghanistan and Pakistan, Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has now confirmed that discussions between the two countries were held in Saudi Arabia, as per Tolo News. However, he noted that these talks, like those previously held in Turkiye and Qatar, have not yielded results.

Pakistan Sets Conditions for Improved Ties

Ishaq Dar, referring to recent security developments, stated that Islamabad is closely monitoring the events of the past weeks and months. He emphasised that improvement in the situation depends on the Afghan side's commitment to its pledges. He added that implementing some of Pakistan's requests, particularly regarding counterterrorism cooperation, could have a significant impact on bilateral relations. Dar said, as quoted by Tolo News, "What happened last month, what changed last week, and what improvements follow those actions... they know very well that if some of our requests, especially on counterterrorism, are fulfilled, the impact will be very substantial."

Dar Welcomes Afghan Fatwa, Sets Timeline

Ishaq Dar also welcomed a recent fatwa issued by Afghan religious scholars that emphasised the prohibition of fighting beyond Afghan soil. He also expressed appreciation for the remarks made by the Islamic Emirate's Interior Minister, who stated that Afghan soil will not be used against any other country. He added, "I believe that if they seriously implement the commitments made in the two fatwas and the recent statement by Sirajuddin Haqqani, and if a noticeable difference is seen within the next two to four weeks, I am confident that our government, the Prime Minister, and the Field Marshal will be happy to reconsider the matter."

Analysts Urge Continued Dialogue

Meanwhile, according to Tolo News, political analysts stress that for the two countries to resolve their challenges, dialogue must remain open and accept reasonable demands from both sides. Previously, Qatar, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia had hosted talks between Kabul and Islamabad, but all of these discussions ended without results. (ANI)

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