Mohammad Mudassir Tipu, Pakistan’s ambassador to Iran, told Tasnim News Agency that Islamabad’s channels of communication with the Taliban remain open.
In response to a question about the future of relations with the Taliban, Tipu said, “We are in negotiations and must see how the situation on the ground evolves.”
He expressed hope that the Taliban would take Pakistan’s “legitimate concerns” seriously so that both sides could work together to promote peace and development.
The Pakistani diplomat added that Islamabad’s primary concern is “terrorism emanating from Afghan soil,” which must be addressed.
A month ago, the Taliban and Pakistan held talks in Saudi Arabia. Islamabad confirmed the meetings but said the Riyadh negotiations yielded no concrete results.
In recent days, both sides have moderated their tone. Pakistani religious scholars have urged them to enter dialogue and resolve their issues through negotiation.
Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s finance minister, welcomed statements by Taliban Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani asserting that the group would not allow Afghan territory to be used against other countries.
Haqqani, in a speech, praised Pakistan’s positions and emphasized the Taliban’s desire for positive relations with all countries.
Given these declared gestures of goodwill, talks are expected to resume soon.
