Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Friday forcefully rejected claims of a deadlock in critical negotiations with the Afghan Taliban in Istanbul, expressing optimism for a positive resolution even as the nation grapples with cross-border terrorism and recent violent clashes at the Chaman border.

During the weekly press briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi confirmed that the dialogue between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban is proceeding under the supervision of international mediators. He emphasized that Pakistan’s non-negotiable demand is an end to the use of Afghan soil for militant activities targeting the country.

“The talks are ongoing in Istanbul with the participation of representatives from both sides. At present, there is no deadlock,” Andrabi stated. He revealed that Pakistan’s delegation is being led by National Security Adviser and Director General Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Asim Malik, with Additional Secretary Syed Ali Asad Gilani also participating in the high-level discussions.

The spokesperson reiterated that extremist elements operating from Afghan territory continue to pose a grave threat, targeting innocent civilians within Pakistan. “Pakistan seeks peaceful and cooperative relations with Afghanistan, but the use of its soil for terrorism against Pakistan is unacceptable,” he asserted.

Addressing recent border flare-ups, Andrabi refuted allegations from Afghan authorities regarding firing incidents at the Chaman crossing, maintaining that the aggression originated from the Afghan side. He confirmed that Pakistani security forces delivered an “effective response” and cited such incidents as the primary reason for the continued closure of border crossings, which will only reopen when the security situation stabilizes.

Andrabi also dismissed reports circulating on Afghan social media about the presence of ISIS in Pakistan as ‘baseless and contrary to facts.’ He stressed that ‘the existence of ISIS or any terrorist outfit cannot be tolerated in a civilized society.’

In response to Indian media claims, the spokesperson clarified that Pakistan had not denied entry to Hindu pilgrims. He explained that while 2,400 visas were issued for the Baba Guru Nanak celebrations, a few individuals were turned back solely due to incomplete documentation. “The Indian media reports are false and misleading,” he said, noting that over 1,900 yatrees, predominantly of the Sikh faith, had already entered Pakistan on November 4.

Touching on historical military matters, Andrabi reaffirmed Pakistan’s previous statements on the number of Indian aircraft downed by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), adding, “Our brave air force defeated a much larger adversary.” He noted that the Indian side had even sought U.S. mediation for a ceasefire at that time.

Concluding the briefing, Andrabi conveyed that while Pakistan remains hopeful for a successful outcome from the Istanbul dialogue, the government’s foremost priority will always be the protection and security of its citizens.