Senior officials from both countries are participating in the discussions, which are being facilitated by China as part of efforts to broker a negotiated settlement between the neighbours, long linked by security ties but increasingly at odds over militancy and cross-border attacks.

The talks are expected to focus on securing a ceasefire and reopening key border crossings to restore trade and travel flows, according to sources cited in earlier reports, signalling an attempt to stabilise economic and civilian movement disrupted by months of hostilities.

“Our efforts for talks will continue despite the problems that will keep coming,” a Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson said during a regular media briefing, underscoring Islamabad’s position that dialogue remains the primary channel for de-escalation.

Pakistan has also acknowledged China’s role in facilitating the engagement, describing Beijing as an important global actor whose diplomatic efforts are complementary to regional stability initiatives.

Tensions between the two countries have escalated sharply since late 2025, with Islamabad accusing the Afghan Taliban authorities of harbouring militants from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, an insurgent group it says is responsible for attacks inside Pakistan.

The Afghan Taliban has rejected those allegations, maintaining that militancy within Pakistan is an internal issue and denying any official support or sanctuary for the group.

The two countries share a 2,600-kilometre border that has historically been porous and contested, and recent fighting has marked a significant deterioration in ties that had initially shown signs of alignment following the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul in 2021.

The event highlighted rapid technological advancements and the steady shift toward models that prevent disputes before they reach the courtroom.

The conference hosted more than 50 speakers, including judges, academics, legal advisors and specialists from leading international institutions.

Their discussions focused on practical strategies, new legal frameworks and the growing role of artificial intelligence in modern judicial processes.

Preventive justice emerged as one of the most prominent themes during the second day of the event.

Experts emphasized that judicial systems around the world are moving toward approaches that reduce litigation through early intervention, alternative dispute resolution and improved access to legal guidance.

Pietro Alpekakos, a Greek judge and expert with the European Judicial Training Network, explained that the concept of justice is no longer limited to resolving disputes after they arise.

He stated that mediation, reconciliation and amicable settlements can significantly reduce case loads and improve the overall experience of individuals seeking legal redress.

Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, former president of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, presented a structured vision for implementing preventive justice.

He emphasized that judges must examine potential drawbacks and identify steps to mitigate risks when considering preventive measures within their jurisdictions.

Prof. Jauntas Machado, director of the Human Rights Center in Portugal, voiced concerns regarding over-regulation.

He cautioned that excessive legal requirements and compliance frameworks may hinder social and economic life, potentially limiting both individual freedoms and corporate activity.

A major portion of the conference was dedicated to artificial intelligence and its rapidly expanding presence in the legal domain.

Experts explored how AI can support judicial decision-making, improve efficiency and strengthen systems that rely heavily on accurate data analysis.

Prof. Gong Baihua of Fudan University highlighted the benefits of predictive technologies used in risk assessment.

He noted that these systems provide judges with vast datasets and deep analytical capabilities, enhancing the speed and quality of preventative legal measures.

However, Baihua also underscored the importance of addressing risks such as algorithmic bias.

He stressed that any AI used in judicial processes must remain subject to strong legal and ethical frameworks to ensure fairness and accountability.

Prof. Jerome Abrams, a member of the Litigation Section council of the American Bar Association, discussed ongoing efforts to develop constitutional artificial intelligence.

He described this work as a major challenge that requires careful coordination between legal authorities, technologists and policy makers.

Judicial cooperation between countries was another key focus of the conference.

Speakers addressed the complexities of cross-border legal processes and the need for adaptable frameworks that facilitate collaboration among international partners.

Michael Wilderspin, former legal advisor to the European Commission, pointed to difficulties that emerged after the UK’s exit from the European Union.

He noted that while years of EU membership strengthened cooperation in civil and commercial legal matters, new inconsistencies have appeared between English and European laws.

Arbitration was also highlighted as an area where global progress is evident.

Nicolas Rouiller, lawyer and partner at SwissLegal Roeller and Associes, explained that arbitration has become increasingly universal, with 172 countries adhering to or respecting the New York Convention on the Enforcement of Arbitration.

Rouiller emphasized that cooperation between courts and arbitrators remains essential for efficiency.

He noted that courts facilitate enforcement and bring parties together, while arbitrators help reduce pressure on judicial staff and improve the speed of dispute resolution mechanisms.

The conference concluded with calls for continued research, stronger collaboration among nations and the development of balanced regulatory frameworks that support innovation without compromising justice.

Experts agreed that AI and preventive justice will remain at the center of global judicial reform efforts in the coming years.

A new wave of optimism is sweeping across Sudan as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have agreed to a humanitarian ceasefire proposed by the United States and Arab partners.

This development marks an important step toward restoring peace and stability in a nation that has long suffered from conflict and hardship.

The RSF’s acceptance of the ceasefire initiative signals a growing commitment to prioritize humanitarian needs and create a pathway for dialogue.

Their readiness to discuss long-term peace arrangements reflects a positive turn in Sudan’s ongoing efforts to rebuild trust and unity among its people.

The U.S., alongside Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, has been actively working to promote peace in Sudan. The proposed truce aims to allow safe humanitarian access, deliver aid to affected regions, and pave the way for a sustainable political process.

The international community has welcomed the RSF’s statement, viewing it as a step toward ending the two-and-a-half-year conflict.
The United States reaffirmed its dedication to facilitating negotiations that could help both sides find common ground.

“The RSF looks forward to implementing the agreement and beginning discussions on cessation of hostilities and the principles guiding Sudan’s political process,” the group stated. Such language reflects a renewed tone of cooperation and hope, signaling potential progress for the war-torn nation.

The ceasefire plan aligns with growing global calls for peace and stability across Africa. Neighboring countries and humanitarian organizations have expressed support for a coordinated effort to ease the suffering of civilians, especially in famine-stricken areas.

The proposed truce not only promises to reduce violence but also allows for essential aid delivery to displaced families.
Medical organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) continue their tireless efforts to treat victims and provide relief in North Darfur and other regions.

U.S. officials emphasized the urgency of immediate de-escalation to prevent further loss of life and displacement. Their ongoing engagement with both parties reflects the international community’s determination to help Sudan return to peace and stability.

If implemented successfully, this ceasefire could become a foundation for a long-term peace agreement.
Such an achievement would represent a monumental shift for Sudan, offering new opportunities for reconciliation, rebuilding, and development.

Sudanese citizens, weary from years of turmoil, are expressing cautious hope that this truce may finally open a path toward healing.
Community leaders have called on all parties to honor their commitments and protect civilians at all costs.

This agreement demonstrates that diplomacy and humanitarian concern can still prevail even amid deep divisions. By prioritizing peace over conflict, Sudan’s leaders are showing the world that dialogue remains the most powerful tool for change.

International observers view the RSF’s willingness to cooperate as a signal of shifting priorities within Sudan’s leadership. The promise of accountability for past violations and protection of civilians marks a hopeful beginning for a more responsible and transparent approach.

Peace advocates around the world continue to emphasize that lasting stability in Sudan will require unity, patience, and strong international support. With continued cooperation between Sudan, the United States, and Arab nations, the potential for peace grows stronger each day.

This humanitarian ceasefire initiative represents more than a pause in fighting—it symbolizes a chance for renewal. It allows Sudan to look ahead to a future defined by compassion, dialogue, and shared purpose rather than division.

As the world watches closely, this moment may become a turning point in Sudan’s history. Through collaboration and goodwill, the dream of a peaceful and prosperous Sudan feels closer than ever before.

According to a statement from Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs early Sunday, the two South Asian nations committed not only to a halt in hostilities but also to “the establishment of mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability between the two countries”.

They further affirmed that follow-up meetings will be held in the coming days “to ensure the sustainability of the cease-fire and verify its implementation in a reliable and sustainable manner”.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, welcomed the accord as “a first step in the right direction”.

Posting on X, he expressed appreciation for the “constructive role played by brotherly Qatar and Türkiye”. He also flagged the next meeting to be hosted by Türkiye, underlining the need for “a concrete and verifiable monitoring mechanism … to address the menace of terrorism emanating from Afghan soil towards Pakistan”.

He added: “It is important to put all efforts in place to prevent any further loss of lives.”

Earlier, both Islamabad and Kabul held talks in Doha on Saturday after the worst violence between the neighbours since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.

According to Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, negotiations took place in Doha with Kabul’s team led by Defence Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob. Meanwhile Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed its Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif led discussions with Taliban leadership.

The cross-border flare-up was triggered by Pakistan’s demand that Afghanistan rein in insurgent groups accused of staging increasingly frequent attacks on Pakistani territory—and which Islamabad says operate from safe havens inside Afghan soil.

The Taliban government denies harbouring armed groups for attacks on Pakistan, instead accusing Islamabad of misinformation, and of sheltering ISIL-linked militants undermining Afghan sovereignty.

On Friday, a suicide bomb near the border killed seven Pakistani soldiers and wounded 13 others, according to security officials. Pakistan’s Army Chief, Asim Munir, warned on Saturday that “the Afghan regime must rein in the proxies who have sanctuaries in Afghanistan and are using Afghan soil to perpetrate heinous attacks inside Pakistan.”

While the cease-fire agreement marks a positive step, analysts caution that the true test will lie in sustained verification, cross-border monitoring and addressing deep-rooted mistrust. Establishing a credible mechanism to monitor adherence and respond promptly to violations will be crucial if peace is to hold.

Sheikh Abdullah, who also serves as the UAE’s deputy prime minister, underscored the importance of halting hostilities, securing the release of hostages, and preventing further escalation in the Middle East. The meeting, attended by UAE Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri and UAE Ambassador to Israel Mohamed Mahmoud Al Khaja, marked a rare diplomatic engagement between the two nations since the Gaza war began in October 2023.

The UAE and Israel normalized relations in 2020 under the US-brokered Abraham Accords, but bilateral interactions have been limited amid the ongoing conflict sparked by Hamas-led attacks on Israel. Saar noted on X that this was his second meeting with Sheikh Abdullah, signaling a cautious resumption of dialogue.

During the talks, Sheikh Abdullah called for a “serious political horizon” to restart negotiations for a two-state solution, reaffirming the UAE’s longstanding support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. He also stressed the need to curb extremism, tensions, and violence across the region, the ministry statement said.

The meeting coincided with Israel’s intensified military operations in Gaza, which resumed last month after the collapse of a US-mediated truce. The Hamas-run health ministry reports that over 1,330 Palestinians have been killed since the offensive restarted, bringing the total death toll since October 2023 to 50,695 — numbers cannot be independently verified. The war erupted when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and abducting 251 hostages, of whom 59 remain in Gaza—24 believed to be alive.

Sheikh Abdullah’s push for peace reflects growing regional concern over Gaza’s humanitarian toll, with the UAE positioning itself as a mediator advocating for stability and Palestinian rights amid a conflict showing no signs of abating.

The bombardment signals the risks of a deepening rift between two powerful regional militaries over Syria, where Islamist rebels have installed a new government after toppling former leader Bashar al-Assad in December.

The Israeli strikes on the three sites Turkey was assessing, including a heavy barrage on Wednesday night, came despite Ankara’s efforts to reassure Washington that a deeper military presence in Syria was not intended to threaten Israel.

The Islamists replacing Assad have alarmed Israel, which is wary of an Islamist presence on its border and has lobbied the United States to curb Turkey’s growing influence in the country.

Ankara, a longtime backer of opposition to Assad, is positioning to play a major role in the remade Syria, including with a possible joint defence pact that could see new Turkish bases in central Syria and use of Syria’s airspace.

In preparation, Turkish military teams in recent weeks visited the T4 and Palmyra air bases in Syria’s Homs province and the main airport in Hama province, according to a regional intelligence official, two Syrian military sources and another Syrian source familiar with the matter.

The sources spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the visits, which have not been previously reported.

Turkish teams evaluated the state of the runways, hangars and other infrastructure at the bases, the regional intelligence official said.

Another planned visit to T4 and Palmyra on March 25 was cancelled after Israel struck both bases just hours beforehand, according to the regional intelligence official and the two Syrian military sources.

Strikes at T4 “destroyed the runway, tower, hangars and the planes that were grounded. It was a tough message that Israel won’t accept the expanded Turkish presence,” said the intelligence official, who reviewed photographs of the damage.

“T4 is totally unusable now,” said a fourth Syrian source, who is close to Turkey.

When asked about the visits, a Turkish defence ministry official said: “Reports and posts regarding developments in Syria – whether real or alleged – that do not originate from official authorities should not be taken into consideration, as they lack credibility and may be misleading.”

A spokesperson for Syria’s defence ministry declined to comment.

Turkey’s foreign ministry on Thursday called Israel “the greatest threat to regional security”. On Friday, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told Reuters Turkey wanted no confrontation with Israel in Syria.

Heavy Strikes

In the four months since Assad was toppled, Israel has seized ground in southwest Syria, made overtures to the Druze minority, and struck much of the Syrian military’s heavy weapons and equipment. Wednesday’s strikes were some of the most intense yet.

Syria’s foreign ministry said Israel struck five separate areas within a 30-minute window, resulting in the near-total destruction of the Hama base and wounding dozens of civilians and soldiers.

Israel said it hit the T4 air base and other military capabilities at air bases in Hama and Homs provinces, as well as military infrastructure in the Damascus area.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz called the air strikes a warning that “we will not allow the security of the State of Israel to be harmed”. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Ankara of seeking a “Turkish protectorate” in Syria.

Noa Lazimi, a specialist in Middle East politics at Bar-Ilan University, said Israel was concerned that Turkey could establish Russian anti-aircraft systems and drones at T4.

“The base would enable Turkey to establish air superiority in this area, and this poses a serious concern for Israel because it undermines its operational freedom in the region,” she said.

Ideological Collision Course

Turkey has tried to reassure the U.S. that it wants to work towards a stable Syria.

Foreign Minister Fidan told U.S. officials in Washington last month that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa would not pose a threat to neighbours, according to a senior regional diplomat close to Turkey and a source in Washington briefed on the meetings.

Fidan and other Turkish officials had earlier told Sharaa that Ankara was carefully calibrating its moves towards a defence pact so as not to irk Washington, one of the Syrian military sources said.

“Turkey, not Israel, would pay the highest price among regional states were there to be failure or destabilization in Syria, including with refugees and security,” an official in Turkey’s ruling AK Party told Reuters.

Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish Research Program at the Washington Institute think tank, said Turkey and Israel were on an “ideological collision course” but could avoid military escalation through mediation with Washington.

For Prince Mohammed, this was a diplomatic victory, reinforcing his efforts to transform his oil-rich nation from its conservative past into a formidable soft-power player.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of high-level talks involving American, Russian, and Ukrainian officials underscores its ambition to position itself as a key global mediator. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman personally welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Jeddah, just before crucial discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives.

This meeting followed a recent episode where former U.S. President Donald Trump rebuked Zelensky for being “ungrateful” during an encounter at the White House.

Saudi Arabia had already facilitated discussions between top U.S. and Russian officials, marking the first direct engagement between Washington and Moscow since the onset of the Ukraine war. The selection of Saudi Arabia as the host was acknowledged by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as a mutually agreeable venue for both parties.

For Prince Mohammed, this was a diplomatic victory, reinforcing his efforts to transform his oil-rich nation from its conservative past into a formidable soft-power player.

The kingdom’s diplomatic balancing act extends beyond the Ukraine war. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has shifted towards a policy of neutrality in global conflicts. This pivot aligns with its broader economic agenda—Vision 2030—which aims to reduce its reliance on oil by attracting foreign investment.

As part of this strategy, Prince Mohammed has de-escalated tensions in Yemen, re-engaged with Iran, and maintained strong ties with both China and Russia, all while preserving Saudi Arabia’s historically close relationship with Western powers.

Balancing Relationships with Putin and Trump

Saudi Arabia’s global image is no longer confined to its oil wealth. The kingdom has hosted high-profile boxing matches, electronic music festivals, and humanitarian summits. It has also sought to bolster its reputation as a peace broker by organizing aid conferences and diplomatic meetings.

In August 2023, Saudi Arabia hosted a two-day peace summit on Ukraine with representatives from over 40 nations, though Russia was absent. Earlier in the year, Riyadh pledged $400 million in aid to Ukraine.

Prince Mohammed’s increasing diplomatic prominence stems in part from his close ties with Trump. Trump’s decision to make Saudi Arabia his first international visit as president in 2017 was a significant departure from tradition.

Even after losing the 2020 election, Trump’s business connections with Saudi Arabia remained intact, with Saudi investments worth $2 billion flowing into a firm managed by his son-in-law Jared Kushner and plans to establish Trump-branded properties in the kingdom.

On Friday, Trump announced his intention to revisit Saudi Arabia, citing the kingdom’s pledge to invest $1 trillion in U.S. companies over four years. “This time, they’ve gotten richer and we’ve all gotten older”, Trump remarked, reinforcing his administration’s transactional approach to diplomacy.

Simultaneously, Prince Mohammed has cultivated a strong rapport with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Unlike Western leaders who distanced themselves after the Khashoggi incident, Putin maintained ties with the Saudi crown prince. Even after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Prince Mohammed resisted U.S. pressure to distance himself from Moscow, continuing to collaborate with Russia on global oil supply management.

In 2023, Putin visited Saudi Arabia, reinforcing Riyadh’s role in the BRICS economic bloc, which seeks to counterbalance U.S. financial dominance.

Saudi Arabia’s ability to hedge its relationships in an increasingly polarized global landscape has proven beneficial. The kingdom played a critical role in securing the release of American teacher Mark Fogel from Russian custody and has successfully mediated multiple prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia.

However, the recent U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia notably excluded Ukraine. In contrast, the upcoming meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian officials will ensure Kyiv’s involvement in ongoing negotiations.

Saudi Arabia’s Eyes on Gaza

Beyond Ukraine, Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic positioning could serve its broader regional objectives. Trump’s controversial proposal to relocate Gaza’s population and redevelop the territory into a luxury coastal destination has been met with widespread Arab opposition. In response, regional leaders convened in Cairo to endorse a $53 billion reconstruction plan aimed at preserving Palestinian residency in Gaza.

By playing a key role in ending the Ukraine war, Saudi Arabia stands to gain favor in Washington over Gaza.

Hasan Alhasan, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Bahrain, suggests that the kingdom could leverage this goodwill to bridge the gap between the U.S. and Arab positions on Gaza.

With Trump potentially in office, Prince Mohammed may attempt to use their close ties to influence American policy in the Middle East.

Nonetheless, Saudi Arabia faces challenges in balancing its strategic interests. Trump has long advocated for Saudi-Israel normalization, but the kingdom remains committed to defending Palestinian statehood.

Saudi officials have consistently emphasized that a lasting peace must guarantee Palestinian rights in accordance with international resolutions. In a recent statement, the kingdom reiterated this stance, underscoring its reluctance to accept Trump’s Gaza relocation plan.

Prince Mohammed’s ability to sustain positive relations with Trump, Putin, and other global leaders may determine the success of his ambitions to position Saudi Arabia as a decisive mediator in international conflicts.