Istanbul — Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to continue their fragile ceasefire following a fresh round of negotiations in Istanbul, where Turkey and Qatar played a central role as mediators.
According to a joint statement released after the talks, representatives from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Qatar met between October 25 and 30 to reinforce the truce that was originally reached in Doha on October 18–19. The discussions focused on preventing renewed border clashes and creating mechanisms to ensure compliance.
The statement confirmed that all parties committed to maintaining the ceasefire, with further details on implementation scheduled to be finalized at a high-level meeting in Istanbul on November 6. A key outcome of the talks was the decision to establish a monitoring and verification system designed to track violations and hold accountable any side that breaches the agreement.
Mediators Turkey and Qatar expressed satisfaction with the progress, praising both delegations for their willingness to return to the table despite earlier setbacks. Officials noted that the talks had briefly collapsed the previous day, with Pakistan’s delegation reportedly preparing to leave Istanbul. However, at the request of the Turkish hosts, negotiations were resumed, leading to the breakthrough.
Diplomatic sources revealed that Pakistan’s central demand remains unchanged: clear, verifiable, and effective action by Afghanistan against terrorist groups operating across the border. While this issue has long been a sticking point, both sides agreed to “give peace another chance” by continuing dialogue under international mediation.
The Istanbul round marks a cautious step forward in easing tensions that have flared in recent months, with both countries facing pressure to prevent further escalation. The upcoming November 6 meeting is expected to determine the practical framework for monitoring the truce and ensuring long-term stability in the region.