Cold Talks in Riyadh: Pakistan-Afghanistan Peace Efforts Stall

Saudi Arabia facilitated talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Riyadh over the weekend, which concluded without any progress. Both nations remained inflexible in their positions on cross-border terrorism, and no compromise was reached. Further negotiations might occur as Saudi Arabia continues its mediation role.

In a bid to soothe escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan over cross-border terrorism concerns, Saudi Arabia hosted a weekend of diplomatic conversations. However, the talks failed to bring any breakthroughs, as both parties stood resolute in their long-standing stances.

The Riyadh-mediated discussions, aided by Turkiye and Qatar, marked a continuation of earlier negotiations held in Istanbul but ended with no tangible steps forward. Both sides maintained their positions, signaling a persistent impasse in their efforts to resolve security issues.

With potential future talks suggested by Saudi officials, who mediated the closed-door sessions, the situation remains complex. Pakistan's demand for Kabul to address terrorist activities clashed with Afghanistan's denial of allowing its soil to be used for operations against its neighbor, highlighting the entrenched challenges in bilateral relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)