Taliban-Pakistan Talks to Resume in Istanbul on November 6

Officials from the foreign ministries of Qatar and Turkey have announced that a new round of talks between delegations from Afghanistan and Pakistan will be held on November 6, corresponding with Thursday, the 15th of Aqrab (Afghan calendar), in Istanbul.

The discussions are part of ongoing efforts previously initiated between the two sides aimed at addressing border issues, security concerns, and regional cooperation. Istanbul, regarded as a secure venue for such diplomatic meetings, will once again host the process.

Following the previous round of talks, Taliban spokesperson Mawlawi Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement that the negotiations had concluded, with both parties agreeing to continue discussions to resolve outstanding issues.

Despite these talks, concerns persist among Afghan citizens about the lack of transparency in the negotiation process and the Taliban administration’s lack of international legitimacy. Many international organizations and observers have called for the inclusion of diverse Afghan groups in such dialogues, asserting that broad participation is essential for achieving lasting and inclusive peace.