Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that Pakistan seeks the Pak-Afghan talks to result in a written agreement rather than verbal understandings.
Speaking to the media outside the parliament, he said the government wants everything to be clear and made part of the agreement, adding that if there is any violation, then Qatar and Turkiye will act as guarantors. Asif said Pakistan does not require anyone’s direction for the Pak-Afghan negotiations, adding that the talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan are essential, as peace is a necessity for the region.
The defence minister said Pakistan desires peace, prosperity, and trade in the region, saying, "The peace and trade are vital for the region, and that is what we are striving for. Whoever is giving guarantees should do so in writing, and we shall proceed."
Earlier, it was reported on Thursday, the series of talks between the Pakistani and Afghan delegations has resumed in Istanbul.
Earlier, the negotiations had been suspended following an unprovoked firing incident at the Afghan border in the Spin Boldak. The Pakistani delegation presented evidence of unprovoked firing from the Afghan border before the Afghan side. Both delegations are presently in contact with their respective national institutions. Evidence of ceasefire violations from the Afghan border has been handed over to Turkish and Qatari mediators.
