Pakistan has formally shared its concerns and demands with mediators during ongoing talks in Istanbul, where its delegation presented “evidence-based and logical information” on the formation, training, and operations of terrorist groups and their external support networks, the Foreign Office said on Friday.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi told reporters during the weekly media briefing that Pakistan’s delegation, led by National Security Adviser Asim Malik, is taking part in the negotiations with the Afghan Taliban administration. The talks are being held under the mediation of Turkiye and Qatar.

Andrabi said the Pakistani delegation also raised the issue of recent unprovoked firing from the Afghan side and handed over Pakistan’s formal demands to the mediators in Turkiye.

He emphasised that the discussions cover terrorism-related evidence and the need for effective security mechanisms to prevent cross-border attacks.

“The Foreign Office will not make any conclusive statement until the talks reach a final outcome,” Andrabi said, adding that “there is currently no deadlock in the negotiations.”

He urged media outlets and the public not to pay attention to fake news or rumours circulating on Afghan social media accounts.

Borders to remain closed

Responding to questions, the spokesperson dismissed Afghanistan’s claims regarding the recent Chaman border incident, saying that “the firing was initiated from the Afghan side.”

He added that the assessment reports following the incident were “not positive,” and the reopening of the border would only be considered after a favourable review.

Andrabi confirmed that the issue of border violations had been raised in Istanbul and reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance that Afghan soil must not be used for terrorism against Pakistan.

In response to another query, the spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s position on past air engagements with India.

“All aircraft shot down by our brave air force are now part of history, and we stand by our record,” he said, noting that confusion persists in the Indian media regarding the models of the aircraft downed, including Rafale jets.

Rejects Indian propaganda

He also rejected an Indian media report claiming that Hindu pilgrims were denied entry into Pakistan.

“This is absolutely false,” Andrabi said, adding that Pakistan has issued visas to 2,400 Hindu pilgrims.