Mujahid: Pakistan’s Irresponsible Approach Led to Failure of Istanbul Talks

DID Press: Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban government, said that the “irresponsible attitude” of the Pakistani delegation and its refusal to accept security commitments prevented any agreement from being reached during recent Istanbul talks. He also reaffirmed the Taliban’s commitment to defend Afghanistan’s sovereignty and security.

Mujahid said that the Taliban delegation, acting under the directive of the group’s leadership, participated in the talks with Pakistan in Istanbul on November 6–7 to address bilateral differences, but negotiations ended without progress.

He said hopes were high that the Pakistani delegation would engage in a constructive and responsible attitude; however, “the other side tried to shift its own security responsibilities onto Afghanistan and showed no commitment toward ensuring security for either country.”

“The irresponsible approach and lack of cooperation from the Pakistani delegation meant that, despite the mediators’ efforts, no results were achieved,” Mujahid added.

He stressed that the Taliban government will not allow Afghanistan territory to be used against any neighboring country and will firmly defend the sovereignty, independence, and national security of Afghanistan.

“The Muslim nation of Pakistan are our brothers,” Mujahid said, adding that “the Islamic Emirate, with goodwill and within its capacity, remains ready for cooperation.”

He concluded by saying that defending Afghanistan’s people and soil is a “religious and national duty” of the Taliban, and that the group will “resolutely respond to any aggression with the support of God and the nation.”