Critical Pakistan-Taliban Talks Kick Off In Doha Today As Border Crisis Deepens | Exclusive Details

Last Updated:October 17, 2025, 02:12 IST

Key discussions are expected to centre on a potential ceasefire extension, a point that directly highlights Pakistan's immediate security vulnerabilities

Pakistan is anticipated to push for significant concessions from the Taliban government in return for any agreement on a prolonged cessation of hostilities. (Representational photo: AFP)

A critical round of negotiations between Pakistan and the Taliban is scheduled to commence in Doha on Friday, sources confirmed to CNN-News18. The talks, facilitated by a third-party mediator, underscore the growing urgency to address escalating cross-border tensions, primarily fueled by the activities of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

A delegation from the Afghan side is slated to travel to Qatar’s capital, reflecting Kabul’s strategic intent to leverage the crisis, assert diplomatic legitimacy, and pressure Islamabad towards formal recognition of the Taliban’s sovereignty. The participation itself is viewed by the Afghan side as a necessary step to project the Taliban as an equal negotiating power, fundamentally rejecting any dictation or interference in Afghanistan’s affairs by Pakistan.

From Islamabad’s perspective, these talks signify a deep-seated desperation to stabilise its western frontier and prevent internal unrest from escalating further due to TTP hostilities. Pakistan will use the platform to present its case regarding the surge in TTP attacks in Khyber and Waziristan, acknowledging a palpable military fatigue and an apparent incapacity to unilaterally contain the insurgency.

Key discussions are expected to centre on a potential ceasefire extension, a point that directly highlights Pakistan’s immediate security vulnerabilities. However, Pakistan is anticipated to push for significant concessions from the Taliban government in return for any agreement on a prolonged cessation of hostilities.

The current situation is widely regarded as critical, with the necessity of third-party mediation underscoring the severe breakdown in bilateral relations. While Pakistan is focused on security and counter-terrorism assurances, the Taliban is firmly positioned to use the meeting to advance its political agenda on the global stage.

Manoj Gupta

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

News world Critical Pakistan-Taliban Talks Kick Off In Doha Today As Border Crisis Deepens | Exclusive Details

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