Pakistan, Afghan officials convene amid escalating TTP threat

ISLAMABAD: In response to the surge in terror activities by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a high-level delegation from the Taliban-led Afghan government has landed in Islamabad for crucial talks with Pakistani officials.

Governor Kandahar Mullah Sherin Akhund, a close aide to Taliban supreme leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, is heading the delegation. The objective of these discussions is to alleviate tensions between the two nations and address the growing security concerns.

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The delegation arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday to participate in the Joint Coordination Council (JCC) meeting. Sources reveal that the JCC discussions will focus on devising strategies to mitigate the rising tensions and enhance cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

During the meeting, Pakistani officials are expected to raise concerns about banned groups exploiting Afghan territory for launching attacks against Pakistan. The issue of terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan will also be on the agenda, reflecting the shared commitment to addressing regional security challenges.

Key topics such as the Pak-Afghan border fence, the Chaman border, and visa-free movement will be extensively discussed during the sessions. Additionally, bilateral talks between the Afghan delegation and Pakistani officials, including a meeting with Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Asif Durrani, are anticipated.

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The delegation, comprising nine to ten members, including Afghan defence and information ministers, along with intelligence officials, is set to engage in multiple meetings with the Foreign Office and military officials during their visit. This high-profile dialogue is a critical step towards fostering cooperation and addressing the complex security landscape in the region.

The visit occurs against the backdrop of increased terror incidents in Pakistan, prompting public criticism from Islamabad over Kabul’s alleged failure to take decisive action against militants using Afghan soil for cross-border attacks. The outcome of these talks will likely have a significant impact on the ongoing efforts to curb terrorism and promote stability in the region.