Informal dialogue brings together former officials, experts and journalists to explore de-escalation avenues
A meeting of delegations from Afghanistan and Pakistan for informal talks in Istanbul, Turkiye, April 29. — X
PESHAWAR/ PAKISTAN:
Informal talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan aimed at reducing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad have begun in Istanbul, with Qatar and Turkiye playing a facilitating role, sources said Express Pakinomist on Thursday.
According to the participants, the first meeting was organized by a Turkish organization, which invited political figures, political experts, journalists and former diplomats from both countries to participate in the discussions.
The Afghan delegation included former diplomat Atif Mashal, Obaidullah Bahir (grandson of Gulbuddin Hekmatyar), Jafar Mahdavi and Ghuncha Gul. Pakistan was represented by former Special Envoy for Afghanistan Asif Durrani, ex-Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, senior journalist Hamid Mir and Senator Sitara Ayaz.
Sources familiar with the meeting said both sides agreed on the need to work towards de-escalation and reduce tensions between the two countries. However, they added that the process still lacked a formal mandate, while Turkey and Qatar continued to support peace efforts.
Genel Başekümız Avukat Bülent Yıldırımın opening speech, Insani Diplomasiden Sorumlu Yönetim Kurulu Üyemiz Abdullah Altayın koordinatorlüğünde İstanbul’da’ Afganistan temselmılı Pakistan 1.5 görüşmeleri balzidi.
Our Vakfimızın… pic.twitter.com/EYw0epNJK5
— İHH (@ihhinsaniyardim) 29 April 2026
The discussions were held under a “track 1.5” format involving former officials, experts and individuals close to policy makers. This framework allows informal exchanges on sensitive issues without binding diplomatic commitments.
According to the organizers, the focus of the dialogue was to address the root causes of tensions and explore practical ways to improve relations between Kabul and Islamabad.
Sources further said that this was the fourth such initiative involving regional and international stakeholders, including engagements in China, Saudi Arabia, Doha and Istanbul.
They added that despite recent border clashes, the ceasefire situation remained intact and no major escalation was reported through official channels.
