Today the Presidents of Afghanistan and Pakistan meet in Istanbul to discuss regional security issues and struggle against militants.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai, his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari as well as military and intelligence officials will participate in the summit hosted by Turkish President Abdullah Gul.

The meeting is held ahead of London international conference on January 28, 2010.

According to Today’s Zaman, Turkey “has been working behind the scenes to repair relations between Islamabad and Kabul, notably over negotiations with the Taliban.”

UK Foreign Minister David Miliband, the US Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke are expected to attend.

A.G.