ISLAMABAD: In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following extensive negotiations held in Doha, Qatar. The talks, which lasted 13 hours, were hosted by the State of Qatar with mediation from the Republic of Türkiye. The agreement marks a major step toward restoring peace and stability along the shared border and curbing terrorism in the region.
According to a statement issued by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both sides not only agreed to halt hostilities immediately but also committed to establishing a permanent mechanism for bilateral peace and cooperation.
The statement further noted that follow-up meetings will be held in the coming days to ensure the implementation and continuity of the ceasefire. These measures are expected to strengthen security and foster stability in both nations. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry expressed hope that this crucial development would pave the way for lasting peace and the reduction of border tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has announced that a ceasefire agreement has been reached between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
In his post on X, he stated that terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil on Pakistan’s territory will immediately cease, and both neighbouring countries will respect each other’s sovereignty.
He further said that delegations from both sides will meet again in Istanbul on October 25 to discuss detailed matters. Khawaja Asif also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the brotherly countries of Qatar and Türkiye for their support.
Diplomatic observers have described the ceasefire agreement as a major success for Pakistan, particularly in its ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism originating from Afghan territory. For the first time, Afghanistan has formally assured that all terror networks and related facilitations operating against Pakistan will be dismantled immediately.
Analysts believe this outcome reflects Pakistan’s consistent stance on the international stage that Afghan soil must not be used for terrorism against its neighbor. The success is attributed to Pakistan’s firm military strategy and steadfast diplomatic approach, which compelled the Afghan side to return to the negotiating table and accept Pakistan’s principal demands.
The mediation by Qatar and Türkiye played a pivotal role in guiding the talks toward a positive outcome. While the detailed provisions of the agreement have not been made public, both sides have agreed to maintain diplomatic engagement to solidify the progress achieved.
The development offers Afghanistan an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to regional peace, while Pakistan has underscored that national security remains non-negotiable. The next challenge lies in ensuring that the ceasefire agreement is fully implemented, paving the way for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for both nations.
