Local sources informed Afghanistan International that on Saturday, Pakistani border forces and the Taliban members held talks in the Kharlachi area of the Dand Wa Patan district in Paktia province.

According to these sources, a separate meeting is simultaneously taking place between tribal leaders from both sides.

These talks have commenced after five days of border clashes in Paktia province.

Residents of the Dand Wa Patan district told Afghanistan International that the exchange of fire between the two sides ceased on Saturday morning. They reported heavy clashes on Friday night.

Videos sent by local residents to Afghanistan International show that shops and houses in the Dand Wa Patan district have been destroyed. Local sources report that at least five Taliban members and three civilians have been killed in the clashes since May 13.

Although Pakistani officials and the Taliban have not yet commented on the main reason for these clashes, unofficial sources suggest that the construction of an outpost at the zero point by Pakistani forces triggered the skirmish.