Political figures and several nations on Sunday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan, signed after important talks in Doha, Qatar. The development came at a crucial time, as tensions had been escalating along the border between the two neighboring countries. Both sides pledged to end cross-border hostilities, respect each other’s sovereignty, and move toward long-term peace and cooperation. The breakthrough was achieved through the mediation of Qatar and Turkiye, who played a key role in facilitating dialogue and promoting understanding between the two governments.
- The author Anum Malik, is affiliated with the State News Agency and contributes her research to the think tank, CDS.
- *The views and opinions expressed herein, and any references, are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of the Centre for Development and Stability (CDS).
A high-level Pakistani delegation, led by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, met Afghan Taliban officials in Doha to discuss Pakistan’s growing security concerns, especially the issue of cross-border terrorism. After a series of detailed negotiations, both sides agreed to an immediate ceasefire and decided to hold another round of talks in Istanbul on October 25. The upcoming discussions will focus on establishing a concrete monitoring mechanism to ensure that both countries adhere to the truce and respect each other’s territorial integrity.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar hailed the Doha agreement as “the first step in the right direction.” In a statement on X, he said that the next meeting in Istanbul must produce a verifiable monitoring mechanism to address terrorism originating from Afghan soil. He emphasized that preventing further loss of life must be the top priority and praised both Qatar and Turkiye for their diplomatic mediation.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the development, calling it a positive and important step toward ending border tensions between “the two brotherly countries.” The statement expressed hope that this agreement would become a solid foundation for sustainable peace in the region. Turkiye also expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the Doha talks, confirming that both sides had agreed to form mechanisms for peace and stability. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said that Turkiye will continue supporting all efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Oman also welcomed the ceasefire agreement and appreciated the mediation role played by Qatar and Turkiye. In its official statement, Oman expressed hope that this deal would lead to “lasting and comprehensive peace” between Pakistan and Afghanistan, two friendly Muslim nations whose stability directly affects the wider region.
In Pakistan, political leaders from across the spectrum praised the agreement. National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq described it as a “significant step toward regional stability.” He noted that Pakistan has always stood for peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and respect for neighboring countries. Sadiq highlighted that peace in Afghanistan and Pakistan is deeply connected, saying, “Peace in Afghanistan is intertwined with peace in Pakistan.” He also pointed out that the ceasefire became possible because of the consensus between Pakistan’s political and military leadership.
Calling the upcoming Istanbul meeting crucial, Sadiq expressed confidence that continued dialogue is the only path toward lasting peace. He further urged both sides to strengthen people-to-people contacts, trade, and mutual cooperation, stressing that joint efforts to combat terrorism are essential for regional prosperity.
Former U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad also praised the ceasefire, calling it “good news from Doha.” He commended Qatar and Turkiye for their mediation and expressed hope that this agreement would help both countries work toward a peaceful future.
PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique termed the development “a commendable step” and prayed for the success of the peace process. In a statement on X, he highlighted the shared faith, culture, and geography that bind Pakistan and Afghanistan together. “Afghanistan should know that Pakistan is neither a land of war nor America, Britain, or Russia. The religion of Islam, traditions, blood ties, and geography will not allow us to be separated from one another,” he said.
However, not all voices were entirely satisfied. Former Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari welcomed the ceasefire but criticized the agreement for not mentioning the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). She argued that the Afghan Taliban’s support for the TTP and the existence of their safe havens were key issues that needed to be addressed directly.
Despite these concerns, the agreement represents a major diplomatic breakthrough after months of border tensions and mutual accusations. Analysts believe that if both nations remain committed to dialogue and cooperation, the ceasefire could pave the way for long-term peace, economic partnership, and regional integration. The upcoming Istanbul meeting on October 25 will be critical in determining how effectively the truce can be implemented and monitored on the ground.
The success of this ceasefire will depend on the political will and mutual trust between Islamabad and Kabul. Regional stakeholders, including Qatar, Turkiye, and Oman, have expressed their readiness to continue supporting the peace process. The international community also views this as a hopeful beginning for a region long scarred by conflict and instability.
If both Pakistan and Afghanistan uphold their commitments and work together to resolve security concerns, this agreement could mark the beginning of a new era of peace and cooperation. In point of fact, peace in Afghanistan is intertwined with peace in Pakistan. The Doha ceasefire now stands as a symbol of hope, a chance for two brotherly nations to replace conflict with dialogue and build a future grounded in stability, respect, and shared prosperity.
