Moscow Afghanistan Talks End Without Joint Statement

The eighth round of Moscow Format consultations on Afghanistan concluded on October 5 without a joint statement after Pakistani and Afghan representatives failed to agree on the final wording.

According to diplomatic reports, disagreement over references to terrorism prevented participants from adopting the document. The outcome highlighted the difficulty of building regional consensus while relations between Islamabad and Kabul remain strained.

Terrorism References Become a Sticking Point

Russia’s special representative for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, said differences between the two delegations emerged during preparation of the final statement.

He explained that Afghan representatives objected to language linking Afghanistan too frequently with terrorism. According to Kabulov, similar wording had appeared in the previous year’s declaration, but the Afghan delegation considered it unacceptable under the changed circumstances of bilateral relations.

Pakistan’s concerns centre on militant activity and attacks it attributes to groups operating from Afghan territory. These allegations remain a major source of disagreement between the neighbours.

Russia Offers Diplomatic Assistance

Despite the failure to agree on a declaration, Russia expressed readiness to help reduce tensions.

Kabulov said Moscow could assist through appropriate diplomatic channels if both Pakistan and Afghanistan requested its involvement. Participants also urged the neighbours to avoid military action and seek political solutions, citing the consequences of violence for civilians.

He emphasised that the Moscow Format would continue operating and that its purpose was to coordinate regional cooperation, rather than settle bilateral disputes.

Regional Cooperation Remains on the Agenda

The meeting brought together representatives from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia, China, India, Iran and Central Asian countries. Belarus and Egypt attended as guests.

The announced agenda covered political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan, alongside stronger coordination against terrorism and narcotics trafficking.

A joint statement had been planned before the meeting. Its absence leaves participants without an agreed public document from this round, although the consultation process remains in place.

Further progress will depend on whether regional governments can find acceptable language on security concerns while encouraging continued dialogue between Islamabad and Kabul.