Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to immediate ceasefire in Doha talks

• ​​​​​​​⁠Islamabad, Kabul laud role of Qatar, Türkiye in facilitating ceasefire

ISTANBUL

Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed Sunday to an immediate ceasefire during talks in Doha, mediated by Qatar and Türkiye, the two countries confirmed.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif confirmed that the ceasefire agreement has been reached between Pakistan and Afghanistan, adding that the two neighboring countries will respect each other's territory.

The defense minister said through the US social media company X that the delegations from the two countries will meet again in Istanbul on Oct. 25 for detailed discussions.

Afghan interim administration spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid also confirmed that an agreement was reached.

“Negotiations between representatives of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, held in Qatar, have concluded with the signing of a bilateral agreement,” Mujahid said on X.

Mujahid said that according to the agreement, both parties have reiterated their dedication to peace, mutual respect, and the preservation of "strong and constructive neighborly relations."

Adding that both sides will avoid targeting each other’s security forces, civilians, or infrastructure, Mujahid noted that a future mechanism, mediated by third countries, will review claims and ensure the agreement is enforced.

Role of Türkiye, Qatar lauded

Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Islamabad welcomes the agreement finalized late Saturday night in Doha, calling it “the first step in the right direction.”

“Deeply appreciate the constructive role played by brotherly Qatar and Türkiye,” Ishaq said on X, calling for “all efforts” to be put in place “to prevent any further loss of lives.”

Mujahid, the Afghan interim administration spokesman, expressed Kabul’s “profound appreciation” to Qatar and Türkiye for their role in facilitating the negotiations.

Earlier, the Qatari Foreign Ministry said the two sides agreed to establish mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability.

It added that both parties will hold follow-up meetings in the coming days to ensure the sustainability and verification of the ceasefire’s implementation “in a reliable and sustainable manner.”

The Foreign Ministry expressed hope that the agreement would help end tensions along the border between “the two brotherly countries” and form a solid foundation for sustainable peace in the region.

Qatar and Türkiye mediated Doha ceasefire talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan after border tensions between the nations escalated since last week.