Doha, October 19, 2025 — In a major development for regional peace, Pakistan and Afghanistan have reached an immediate ceasefire agreement after high-level negotiations in Doha. The talks, mediated by Qatar and Türkiye, brought together senior delegations from both sides to address months of escalating border tensions.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, the ceasefire will be accompanied by mechanisms to monitor its implementation and ensure sustainability. The ministry stressed that this agreement lays the groundwork for long-term stability and security in both countries.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who led the Pakistani delegation, confirmed the ceasefire in a statement on X. He declared that the agreement would immediately halt the “chain of terrorism from Afghanistan” and reaffirmed that both nations had pledged to respect each other’s territorial sovereignty.
Asif also announced that the next round of talks will be held in Istanbul on October 25, where both sides will engage in detailed discussions to strengthen the ceasefire and draft a comprehensive peace plan.
The Pakistani delegation included ISI chief and National Security Advisor Lieutenant General Asim Malik, highlighting Islamabad’s commitment to the process. On the Afghan side, the delegation was led by Defense Minister Mullah Yaqoob, with Taliban intelligence chief Maulvi Abdul Haq Wasiq also present.
BBC Urdu reported that the ceasefire is being seen as a turning point in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, with hopes that it will reduce border clashes and create space for cooperation in trade, security, and development.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry described the agreement as a foundation for future peace, stressing that the two “brotherly countries” now have an opportunity to move beyond conflict and work toward sustainable development.
For years, Pakistan and Afghanistan have struggled with cross-border militancy and territorial disputes, which have strained ties and fueled instability. Analysts suggest that this ceasefire, if implemented effectively, could mark the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral relations.
As the world watches, the upcoming Istanbul talks will be critical in determining whether this major development evolves into a lasting peace framework.