Islamabad — Pakistani media report that a high-level Turkish delegation will visit Pakistan next week to help ease recent tensions between Islamabad and Afghanistan. Turkish Ambassador Dr. Irfan Neziroglu said both sides value Turkey’s “positive role” in mediation.
The visit was announced following a meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Baku. Erdoğan noted that the latest Istanbul talks between the two sides had ended inconclusively, and Turkey aims to continue its mediation efforts.
Timeline of Recent Talks
- March 23, 2025: Pakistani delegation visits Kabul for discussions.
- May 6, 2025: Senior officials hold a phone call agreeing to strengthen high-level contacts.
- October 19, 2025: Ceasefire agreed upon in Doha.
- October 25, 2025: Second round of talks mediated by Turkey and Qatar held in Istanbul.
- October 30, 2025: Joint statement issued.
- November 6, 2025: Another high-level meeting scheduled.
Regional and Economic Impact
Pakistan continues to accuse the Taliban of supporting TTP and BLA militants, which has led to the closure of key border crossings including Torkham and Spin Boldak since October 11. Traders report losses exceeding $100 million, and thousands of workers have been affected. The Taliban reject these allegations.
Iran, Russia, and other regional players have also offered mediation, with Tehran planning a regional meeting at the end of December to help reduce tensions.
Meanwhile, Kabul is exploring alternative routes to export fresh fruits to Russia, Central Asia, and India. Pakistan emphasizes that its engagement with Afghanistan is based on national capacities and priorities.
Traders on both sides are urging their governments to ensure successful negotiations, reopen trade routes, and revive commerce to restore livelihoods and economic activity.
