Afghanistan and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire Mediated by Qatar

Darwin, 19 Octobor— After a week of deadly border clashes, Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire through mediation by Qatar. On Sunday, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement confirming that both countries have not only agreed to halt hostilities but have also committed to taking effective measures toward establishing lasting peace and stability.

Al jazeera said, The statement further mentioned that upcoming meetings between the two countries will be held in the near future to maintain the ceasefire and monitor its implementation.

Peace talks began in Doha on Saturday, with the Afghan delegation led by Defense Minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob. On the Pakistani side, Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif led discussions with the Taliban representatives.

According to Pakistan, “The main objective of the dialogue is to put an end to terrorist activities originating from Afghanistan and to restore peace and stability along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.”

It is worth noting that recent clashes along the 2,600-kilometer disputed border have resulted in numerous casualties on both sides. Pakistan has alleged that terrorists have been launching attacks from safe havens inside Afghanistan, prompting airstrikes along the border.

The Taliban has denied these allegations, accusing Pakistan of spreading misinformation and harboring groups like ISIL (ISIS) within its own territory—groups that threaten Afghanistan’s stability.

On Friday, a suicide attack near the border killed seven Pakistani soldiers and injured 13 more, according to Pakistani security forces.

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, stated, “The Afghan government must put an end to terrorist operations launched from their soil and take strict action against the groups responsible for heinous attacks in Pakistan.”

This ceasefire is being seen as a significant step toward reducing tensions and building a path to lasting peace between the two nations.