Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Ali Amin Gandapur Calls for Talks with Afghanistan to End Terrorism

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister **Ali Amin Gandapur** has said that repeated military operations have failed to curb terrorism, which has instead increased, stressing that the solution lies in **dialogue with Afghanistan**.

Speaking to reporters, Gandapur revealed that Afghanistan has given a **positive response** to Pakistan’s call for talks. “We have always maintained that negotiations are the only solution. Afghanistan has also shown willingness for dialogue. This week, we will send the names of a tribal delegation to the federal government for the talks,” he said.

The chief minister emphasized that loss of innocent lives in counterterrorism operations is unacceptable. He noted that while action against terrorists is the mandate of the federal government and the military, sustainable peace can only be achieved through negotiations.

Gandapur also announced a **public rally on September 27** under the directives of PTI founder Imran Khan, saying it will prove that the people stand with their leader. “Our mandate was stolen, but we will reclaim our right. Our policy — and that of our founder — has always been dialogue,” he asserted.

Condemning the federal government’s handling of national institutions, including cricket, Gandapur remarked: “India is our enemy, and people are most excited for matches against them. Losing to India hurts our nation. The team must fight hard to secure victory, but the federal government has destroyed every institution, even cricket, which is why we can’t win against India anymore.”

Highlighting the devastating toll of terrorism in the province, Gandapur said more than **80,000 lives have been lost over decades**. He reiterated that only negotiations could restore peace. “We will also discuss this in our rally and take people’s opinions. Terrorism must end, and dialogue is the way forward,” he added.