Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Seeks Direct Talks with Taliban

Chief Minister Amin Gandapur of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has announced plans to send a delegation to Afghanistan to negotiate with the Taliban over terrorism concerns. His statement follows an escalation of militant activity and military operations in the region. Gandapur stressed the importance of dialogue for peace.

In a significant move to address terrorism concerns, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Amin Gandapur announced Thursday his intention to dispatch a delegation to Afghanistan for direct talks with the Taliban. This development comes nearly a week after he sought the Centre's permission to engage in peace negotiations.

The announcement follows a spate of military operations by the Pakistan Army against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Gandapur, addressing lawyers in Peshawar, emphasized the need for dialogue, noting that he will involve tribal leaders in these discussions.

Terrorism has surged in Pakistan since the Taliban's 2021 takeover in Afghanistan, leading to strained relations between the two nations. Gandapur underscored the necessity of a clear policy to combat militancy and criticized the federal government for its insufficient efforts in developing the tribal regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)