Negotiations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban entered their third day in Istanbul, as the dialogue moved toward its final stage, sources said on Tuesday.

During the third round, which lasted 18 hours, the Afghan Taliban delegation agreed to Pakistan’s demand to take action against militants and extremist groups operating from Afghan soil.

The delegation, in the presence of mediators, acknowledged the core issue raised by Pakistan.

The sources revealed that the Taliban delegation’s stance kept shifting due to repeated instructions from Kabul.

They said that illogical and unreasonable guidance from Kabul had been the main reason for the lack of progress in previous rounds.

“Pakistan and the hosts remain committed to resolving these complex matters through serious engagement,” the sources added.

An “ultimate effort” is now underway to reach a logical and negotiated settlement, according to officials familiar with the matter.

The first round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban was held in Doha, Qatar, where both sides had agreed on a ceasefire.

The second round took place two days ago in Istanbul, during which both delegations reviewed the implementation of the points agreed upon earlier.

Security sources said that Pakistan had presented Afghan authorities with a comprehensive plan to counter terrorism.

Earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told the media that the Afghan Taliban had only two options — “either to live peacefully or face open conflict with Pakistan.”