Pakistan criticised over incorrect map shown during Afghanistan peace talks

Pakistan faced criticism after a map displayed during informal peace talks with Afghanistan in Turkey appeared to leave out parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

The map was shown during a meeting held in Istanbul earlier this week aimed at easing military tensions between the two countries.

Images of the map circulated on social media, drawing reactions from Pakistani users who questioned how the graphic was presented. While some observers suggested the lower-left portion may have appeared distorted because of design and colour choices, the upper-right section was widely described as clearly inaccurate.

The discussions, titled “Afghanistan and Pakistan: A dialogue in the spirit of Ta’aruf - 1,” were conducted in a “Track 1.5” format involving former officials, policy experts, and individuals considered close to decision-making circles.

The talks were organised by the Turkish aid group IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation and facilitated by Turkey and Qatar, according to Afghan and Pakistani media reports citing sources.

In a statement, the organisers said the meeting aimed to address key issues between Afghanistan and Pakistan, explore possible solutions, and contribute to efforts toward long-term peace.

Pakistan’s delegation included former special envoy for Afghanistan Asif Durrani, lawmaker Sitara Ayaz, former lawmaker Mushahid Hussain Sayed, and senior journalist Hamid Mir.

The Afghan side included former diplomats Atif Mashal, Obaidullah Bahir, Jafar Mahdavi, and Ghuncha Gul, according to Afghanistan’s Amu TV.

Several Pakistani news outlets reportedly published reports about the Istanbul talks using the incorrect map before later deleting the content from their websites and social media accounts.

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have deteriorated sharply in recent months following Islamabad’s bombing of Kabul in February.