9-Hour Pak-Afghan Talks In Istanbul Yield 'Tactical Calm' But No Formal Deal | Exclusive Details

Last Updated:October 26, 2025, 02:44 IST

Top Indian intelligence sources view the Istanbul dialogue as a calculated manoeuvre within a larger geopolitical context

Inside details from the talks learnt by CNN-News18 reveal the core sticking points. File pic/Reuters

The second high-level round of security and political talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan concluded in Istanbul after a gruelling nine-hour session, according to top sources. While no formal agreement was signed, both delegations committed to an immediate de-escalation of border tensions, offering a temporary reprieve in the strained bilateral relationship.

Inside details from the talks learnt by CNN-News18 reveal the core sticking points. Islamabad intensified pressure for a verifiable monitoring mechanism to prevent cross-border movements by the outlawed Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) from Afghan soil. In response, Kabul firmly resisted the idea of joint border patrols but indicated a willingness to “explore mutually acceptable modalities for intelligence sharing".

The humanitarian and economic crisis surrounding Afghan refugees was another central focus. Pakistan pushed ahead with its plans for a phased repatriation drive and limited border openings to address the immediate crisis of nearly 1,200 trucks stranded and mounting trade losses. However, Kabul issued a stern warning of severe economic and humanitarian fallout if the forced refugee repatriation is carried out, signalling a major point of contention. In a diplomatic breakthrough, sources indicate that Turkey and Qatar are likely to form a joint trade-security task group to facilitate a phased resumption of commerce and ensure security guarantees.

Meanwhile, top Taliban sources struck a defiant public tone, rejecting any “Pakistani diktat" and asserting that the talks were held between “equals". They publicly refuted Islamabad’s charges, claiming that “no Pakistani militants are officially sheltered in Afghanistan" and classifying Pakistan’s allegations as “politically motivated". Furthermore, stern public warnings were issued that any Pakistani cross-border military action would be treated as “aggression against the Emirate".

Top Indian Intelligence sources view the Istanbul dialogue as a calculated manoeuvre within a larger geopolitical context. They interpret Ankara’s mediation as part of a broader Islamic bloc diplomacy that strengthens Pakistan’s geopolitical standing. Crucially, Indian sources argue that the “peace time" bought by the talks grants Islamabad a much-needed “breathing space" to recalibrate its domestic policy on the TTP without the embarrassment of admitting military weakness. The Istanbul round, according to this assessment, represents a “temporary tactical calm but not a strategic reconciliation", with Turkey emerging as a silent gainer for successfully hosting the second round of high-stakes negotiations.

Manoj Gupta

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

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