Ceasefire Agreement Between Afghanistan and Pakistan

Amid ongoing conflict that has resulted in numerous casualties and injuries, Afghanistan and Pakistan announced a commitment to uphold a ceasefire on Sunday.

This ceasefire, facilitated by Qatar and Turkey, is effective immediately and aims to halt hostilities between the two nations.

Since the start of this month, tensions have surged, with both countries accusing each other of aggression. Afghanistan, in particular, has denied accusations of harboring militants responsible for attacks in border regions.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Taliban government, expressed optimism following discussions held in Doha, Qatar, the day prior. He indicated that a bilateral agreement had been signed.

“We’ve agreed that neither country will engage in hostilities against the other or support groups that launch attacks on Pakistan. We’ll avoid targeting each other’s security forces, civilians, and critical infrastructure,” Mujahid stated.

A mechanism will be put in place, with support from intermediary states, to address claims from both countries and ensure that this agreement is upheld.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, confirmed the agreement on social media, stating that “cross-border terrorism from Afghan territory will cease immediately.” He added that both nations would respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial rights. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul to delve deeper into these matters.

Both representatives expressed gratitude to Qatar and Turkey for their mediation efforts that led to this ceasefire.