We Do Not Know About Pakistan-afghanistan Talks In Saudi Arabia: Foreign Office

The Foreign Office has expressed ignorance regarding media reports claiming that Pakistan and Afghanistan held talks in Saudi Arabia. Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi said that while they have seen such reports, they cannot confirm any negotiations taking place in Saudi Arabia.

During the weekly media briefing, the spokesperson stated that Pakistan welcomes the mediation offer made by the President of Türkiye and is ready to receive the Turkish mediation team. He clarified that the delay in the team’s visit is not due to any lack of cooperation from Pakistan.

He further said that Pakistan had closed its border with Afghanistan due to the prevailing situation, while Afghan authorities have also closed their side of the border. Currently, Pakistan has opened the border only for humanitarian assistance.

Meanwhile, international news agency Reuters reported that a third round of peace talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan was held in Saudi Arabia, hosted jointly by Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Qatar. According to the report, no major progress was achieved, but both sides agreed to maintain the existing ceasefire.

The spokesperson also informed that the President of Kyrgyzstan recently visited Pakistan, during which delegation-level discussions were held. Both countries agreed to further enhance bilateral cooperation and increase the trade volume to 200 million dollars by 2027–28.

During the visit, 15 MoUs were signed, and over 20 Kyrgyz companies along with more than 80 Pakistani businessmen participated in the business forum. Ishaq Dar held meetings with the Kyrgyz President and Foreign Minister, while the Egyptian Foreign Minister also visited Pakistan, where Ishaq Dar inaugurated the Islamabad Conclave.