Pakistani forces opened fire on Afghan border positions on Thursday even as the third round of high-stakes talks between the two countries began in Istanbul, Afghan media reported. The incident has cast a shadow over the ongoing negotiations aimed at reinforcing a fragile ceasefire and preventing further escalation along the volatile frontier.

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, said the firing occurred in the Spin Boldak area and caused concern among local residents.

“While the third round of talks with Pakistan has begun in Istanbul, it is with regret that I must say that this afternoon, once again, firing was initiated by Pakistani forces on the Spin Boldak area,” Mujahid said. He added that Afghan forces had not yet responded “out of respect for t

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