Over successive rounds of talks — first in Doha, Qatar and subsequently in Istanbul, Türkiye — Pakistan presented sufficient and irrefutable evidence of terrorist activities and of Afghan Taliban links to those groups. While the Afghan side acknowledged receipt of the evidence, it did not accept responsibility nor offer the concrete commitments Pakistan demanded. Instead, the talks were plagued by diversion from the core issue and by repeated blame-shifting. Consequently, the dialogue failed to produce a workable solution.
Pakistan expresses its appreciation to the Governments of Qatar and Türkiye for facilitating the dialogue and for their sincere efforts to secure a peaceful resolution. Pakistan also thanks other friendly states for their support.
The security and safety of Pakistani citizens are the Government’s highest priority. After four years of repeated engagement and bearing heavy losses of men and material, Pakistan’s patience has run its course. The Government of Pakistan will continue to take all necessary measures — including the employment of all required resources — to neutralize terrorists, dismantle their sanctuaries, and hold their abettors and supporters accountable.
The Government remains committed to a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan and has repeatedly advocated for an end to hostility and for respect of international commitments, including those contained in the Doha Agreement. Pakistan will, however, never compromise on the defence of its people and territorial integrity.