Pakistan’s Role in Durand Line Narrative Denied by Taliban
Afghanistan’s Taliban government said Pakistan is shaping a “false narrative” about the disputed Durand Line following recent talks in Doha. The Afghan side stated there was no discussion or agreement on the border issue during the meetings.
Context of the Doha Talks
The conversation between Pakistan and Afghanistan, held under Qatari mediation, focused on a cease-fire and coordination on border management. Despite this, Islamabad has repeatedly accused Kabul of providing sanctuary to militants who attack Pakistani territory, claims the Taliban dismiss as baseless.
Border Dispute Remains Unaddressed
Afghanistan has never formally recognised the Durand Line drawn in 1893. The Taliban’s remarks reinforce Kabul’s long-standing position that any border question must be settled by both states without external pressure.
Implications for Relations
The exchange raises concerns over the fragile state of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. Analysts say that diverging narratives on the border issue may complicate efforts to sustain the cease-fire and rebuild trust between the two neighbours.
