Taliban Signal Readiness for Talks After Deadly Pakistani Airstrikes

Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban administration on Friday expressed openness to negotiations with Pakistan following a wave of airstrikes that targeted its forces in key urban centers.

Once considered allies, Islamabad and the Taliban government have seen ties unravel in recent months, with tensions escalating into direct military action.

Despite the heavy casualties and rising hostilities, Taliban officials indicated they are prepared to pursue dialogue in an effort to ease the growing crisis.

“Afghanistan has never been a supporter of violence and has always preferred to resolve issues based on mutual understanding and respect,” the Afghan foreign ministry quoted Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi as telling Qatar’s junior Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalifi by telephone.

“However, this approach will be effective only if the other party demonstrates a practical and sincere willingness to find solutions.”

The statement added that Qatar, which previously played a key role in halting last year’s clashes between the two nations, is now collaborating with other countries in efforts to defuse the renewed crisis.

Source: Reuters