Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban began Doha talks on Friday, with Qatar mediating to ease rising tensions along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border. The meeting aims to prevent new clashes and restore stability before the temporary ceasefire between both sides expires this evening.
High-Level Delegations Meet in Doha
According to British and Afghan media reports, the Taliban delegation, led by Defence Minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, arrived in Doha to meet senior Pakistani security and intelligence officials.
The talks focus on finding a diplomatic solution after weeks of cross-border skirmishes that turned deadly.
Although Pakistan has not issued an official statement, state media confirmed that both delegations plan to discuss border security, de-escalation measures, and communication channels.
Officials describe these talks as one of the most significant direct engagements between Islamabad and Kabul in months.
Qatar Steps Up as Mediator
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a recent cabinet meeting, commended Qatar’s mediation role. He shared that the Emir of Qatar expressed regret over the Afghan attack on Pakistan and reiterated his commitment to peace.
“Qatar has always played a constructive role in promoting regional stability,” the prime minister said.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also received a message from Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, who praised Pakistan’s restraint and openness to dialogue. Dar thanked Qatar for its sustained peace efforts.
Talks Crucial as Ceasefire Nears Expiry
The Pakistan–Afghanistan Doha talks come at a critical moment. The ceasefire between the two nations will expire at 6 p.m. Friday, raising pressure on both sides to avoid renewed conflict.
Regional observers say that if the talks succeed, they could establish a new security framework to stabilise the border and strengthen trade and cooperation.
Related stories:
