NATIONAL NEWS
ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Friday emphasized that Pakistan is pushing for its ongoing dialogue with the Afghan Taliban to culminate in a written agreement instead of informal verbal assurances.
Talking to reporters outside Parliament House, Asif said Islamabad wants all terms spelled out clearly on paper so that any future violations can be addressed effectively. He added that Qatar and Turkiye are expected to serve as guarantors should either side breach the agreement.
He stressed that Pakistan is independently steering the negotiation process and does not need guidance from any external power. According to him, meaningful engagement between Islamabad and Kabul is essential, as long-term regional stability depends on peace.
“Pakistan’s aspiration is simple: peace, economic progress, and unhindered trade across the region,” Asif said. “If guarantees are being offered, they must be documented. Only then can we move forward confidently.”
The latest round of discussions between Pakistani and Afghan officials resumed in Istanbul on Thursday. The process had stalled earlier following an incident of unprovoked firing from the Afghan side in Spin Boldak.
Officials said Pakistan has presented evidence of ceasefire violations to the Afghan delegation, while both sides
remain in contact with their respective institutions. Records of the border incidents have also been shared with Qatar and Turkiye, the expected guarantors.
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