The third round of negotiations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban has commenced in Istanbul, marking another important attempt to address security concerns and restore stability between the two neighboring nations. According to diplomatic sources, discussions have now formally begun on establishing a “monitoring and verification mechanism” aimed at preventing terrorism and managing cross-border militant activities. This development comes after Pakistan once again agreed to hold bilateral talks on Turkey’s request, which offered to mediate and facilitate what is being termed as a last opportunity for diplomatic engagement.

In the previous months, tensions have risen significantly between Pakistan and Afghanistan due to a series of terrorist attacks inside Pakistan, which Pakistani authorities claim were carried out by groups operating from Afghan territory. Pakistan has repeatedly demanded that the Afghan Taliban government take concrete action to dismantle militant safe havens and prevent their fighters from crossing into Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban, however, has consistently denied the presence of such groups on its soil, describing the situation as a misunderstanding or an exaggeration by Pakistan’s security agencies.

The second round of talks, held on October 25 in Istanbul, was described as lengthy and mentally exhausting. Despite hours of discussion, no progress was made on Pakistan’s central demand: a firm commitment that Afghan territory would not be allowed to be used for attacks against Pakistan. Diplomats present during the negotiations stated that the Afghan side frequently paused the discussions to seek instructions from Kabul and Kandahar, which delayed the process and created frustration within the Pakistani delegation. As no breakthrough occurred, Pakistan’s representatives ultimately decided to conclude the talks and return home.

However, just as the Pakistani delegation was preparing to depart from Istanbul Airport, Turkey intervened and requested both sides to give the negotiations one final chance. Responding to this appeal, the Pakistani team agreed to return to the negotiation table. Turkey, which has maintained close cultural and political ties with both countries, sees a stable relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan as vital for regional peace and its own diplomatic influence. Turkish officials have emphasized that continued conflict or mistrust between the two neighbors could deepen instability in the broader region.