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| Afghan Defence Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob, centre left, shakes hands with Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif after reaching a ceasefire deal negotiated by Qatar and Turkiye [Handout: Qatar Foreign Ministry] |
Doha: Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following successful negotiations held in Doha, Qatar. The talks were facilitated by Qatar and Turkiye, marking a significant step towards restoring peace and stability along the Pak-Afghan border.
According to a statement from the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both sides have also agreed to establish mechanisms to ensure long-term peace and the effective implementation of the ceasefire.
Defence Ministers Lead Peace Effort
Pakistan’s delegation was led by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, while Afghanistan’s team was headed by Defence Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob.
During the discussions, both sides focused on measures to end cross-border terrorism, prevent future incidents, and promote stability along the 2,600-kilometre shared frontier.
A spokesperson for the Afghan government, Zabihullah Mujahid, confirmed that Kabul’s delegation had arrived in Doha for the talks, expressing optimism that dialogue would help prevent further hostilities.
Recent Escalation Along the Border
The ceasefire follows a week of intense clashes between security forces of the two neighbouring countries — the most serious escalation since the Taliban took control of Kabul in 2021.
Cross-border violence was triggered by Pakistan’s call for Afghanistan to take action against militant groups allegedly using Afghan territory to launch attacks inside Pakistan. Islamabad maintains that such activities have endangered regional peace and security.
On Friday, a suicide attack near the border resulted in the martyrdom of seven Pakistani soldiers and injuries to thirteen others.
Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, said the armed forces will continue to protect the nation’s sovereignty and called on the Afghan authorities to prevent the use of their soil for hostile activities.
Commitment to Lasting Peace
Both sides have agreed to hold follow-up meetings in the coming days to ensure strict implementation of the ceasefire and to resolve issues through dialogue.
The Government of Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and stability, emphasizing that differences can only be resolved through mutual respect, understanding, and continued diplomatic engagement.
Qatar and Turkiye have been praised for their diplomatic efforts in facilitating the agreement and encouraging both sides to pursue a peaceful path forward.
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