The second round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban regime will be held today (Saturday) in Istanbul, following up on the earlier round of discussions held in Doha, sources said.

According to the official sources, Pakistan will once again press Kabul to prevent anti-Pakistan terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil.

The issue of cross-border terrorism is expected to top the agenda during the Istanbul dialogue.

Pakistan is also set to demand verifiable action against terrorist groups operating inside Afghanistan, particularly Fitna Al Khawarij, Fitna Al Hindustan, and other militant outfits involved in attacks against Pakistan.

Officials said the objectives of the Istanbul talks remain consistent with those of the first round in Doha, where Pakistan participated seriously and constructively.

The Doha talks had resulted in a ceasefire, after which no major terrorist incidents were reported from across the border.

Following the incidents of Afghan aggression, border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain closed.

The Afghan Taliban delegation, led by Deputy Interior Minister Haji Najeeb, has arrived in Istanbul to participate in today’s talks.