Taliban Engages Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia in Talks Amid Pakistan Tensions

Zakir Jalali, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Taliban administration, stated that along with implementing security and defense measures following recent developments, diplomatic efforts are also being actively pursued. He said the administration’s diplomatic apparatus is coordinating the use of all legitimate and responsible tools to protect “national interests and security.” According to Jalali, within this framework, detailed consultative talks have been held today with foreign ministers from several “friendly and cooperative” countries, including the Republic of Turkey, the State of Qatar, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He added that during these contacts, the official stance of the Taliban administration and what he described as “existing realities” were shared with these countries. The Deputy Minister also noted that these countries have played a mediating role in the dialogue process between Afghanistan and Pakistan and continue their efforts. These statements come amid recent months of tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, with ongoing diplomatic consultations potentially playing a crucial role in reducing differences and preventing further escalation.