Pakistan and Afghanistan hold peace talks in Doha today. This follows a week of intense border clashes. Both nations extended a ceasefire to allow these discussions. The goal is to ease tensions and prevent more violence.
Delegations arrived in Qatar’s capital early Saturday. Afghanistan’s team is led by Defence Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob. Pakistan sends Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif to head its side. Officials from both countries confirm the meeting is underway.
The clashes started over security concerns. Pakistan accused Afghan soil of hosting militants. These groups launched attacks inside Pakistan. Islamabad demanded action from Kabul. Tensions boiled over into ground fights and airstrikes.
The border spans 2,600 kilometers. It has long been a flashpoint. Fighting killed dozens on both sides. Hundreds suffered wounds. This marks the worst violence since the Taliban took power in 2021.
A 48-hour truce began earlier this week. Both sides agreed to extend it. This covers the full Doha talks. Sources say the pause holds for now. No new incidents were reported overnight.
Pakistan’s focus is clear. The talks aim to stop cross-border terrorism. Islamabad wants verifiable steps from Afghanistan. Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke out. He urged Kabul to control militant proxies. “Mutual security beats endless violence,” he said at a military event.
Afghanistan denies the claims. The Taliban says it does not shelter attackers. Kabul accuses Pakistan of false information. They blame Islamabad for stirring trouble. Afghanistan also points to alleged Pakistani support for rivals like ISIS. Both sides reject these charges.
Regional powers watch closely. Saudi Arabia and Qatar called for calm. They warn of wider risks. Extremist groups like al-Qaida could gain ground. Stability in South Asia hangs in the balance.
The Durand Line divides the nations. Afghanistan never fully accepted it. This adds to old disputes. Past alliances have faded. Now, security issues dominate ties.
Friday saw a deadly suicide blast. It killed seven Pakistani soldiers near the border. Thirteen others were hurt. Such events fuel the cycle of blame.
Pakistan and Afghanistan hold peace talks in Doha with hope. Experts say quick wins are key. Confidence-building steps could follow. Long-term border management needs work too.
No escalation is sought, per Islamabad. The foreign office stresses dialogue. They push for action against terror threats. Kabul echoes the need for respect. Sovereignty must stay intact, they say.
Outcomes remain unclear. Yet, the mere act of talking is progress. It breaks a pattern of retaliation. Lives depend on success here.
Fans of peace in the region wait. Doha has hosted big talks before. Qatar’s role as mediator shines again. Neutral ground helps trust build.
This meeting tests wills. Pakistan seeks safety from attacks. Afghanistan wants an end to strikes. Balance is tough but vital.
Pakistan and Afghanistan hold peace talks in Doha amid high stakes. Results could reshape borders. Or spark more trouble if they fail.
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