Pak-Afghan peace talks restart in Istanbul

Pakistan and Afghanistan have resumed peace talks in Istanbul, four sources familiar with the matter said on Thursday, a day after Islamabad said the discussions had ended in failure.

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Three of the sources said the nations had recommenced talks at the request of mediators Turkey and Qatar, to ensure they do not resume border clashes that have killed dozens this month.

One of the sources, a Pakistani security official, said Islamabad would press its central demand at the talks that Afghanistan take action clear, verifiable and effective action against militant groups.

Also on Thursday, Afghanistan's state broadcaster, RTA, reported that the stalled talks were set to resume in Istanbul under the mediation of Turkey and Qatar.

In Islamabad, two senior security officials told The Associated Press that Pakistan has once again stressed that Afghan soil should not be used for what it called “terrorism” against Pakistan and that it appreciates the constructive role of its hosts and remains committed to seeking a peaceful resolution in good faith.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter with the media on the record.

The Pakistani military said on Thursday it killed 18 militants in two separate operations in Balochistan.