during his career, therefore, he understood the dynamics of the TTP and Afghanistan, according to observers.As the ISI DG, Gen Asim spearheaded initial efforts aimed at facilitating direct talks between the US and the Afghan Taliban. Given this background, the army chief is likely to give a crucial input to the government led by Prime Minister Shebhaz Sharif on the policy review on the TTP and Afghanistan.On Tuesday, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar led a Pakistani delegation on a day-long visit to Kabul. In an official handout, there was no specific mention of Pakistan's concerns over the cross-border terrorist attacks.But sources said this was one of the topics of discussions. Pakistan's special envoy Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq was part of the delegation meaning the issue of the TTP must have come up for discussions.According to sources, it is possible the government may revisit the strategy to hold direct talks with the TTP.Previously, the sources said, the government did not like a direct approach towards the TTP. In the Foreign Office, officials who were dealing with the matter were of the view that holding direct talks with the TTP was not a wise strategy. Ambassador Sadiq suggested talks with the TTP through the Afghan Taliban, The Express Tribune reported.It is likely that given the resurgence of TTP attacks, Pakistan may close the door for talks and go for other options to neutralise the terrorist threat. Some observers feel that the TTP announcement to end the ceasefire may be a tactical move to get more concessions from Pakistan in the wake of a change of command.
--IANS san/ksk/
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