‘First Step in Right Direction’: Global Leaders Welcome Pakistan-Afghanistan Ceasefire Pact

Doha/Istanbul — October 20, 2025

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following high-level talks in Doha, Qatar. The agreement — brokered with the mediation of Qatar and Turkiye — marks a pivotal moment in easing escalating tensions along the shared border.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif led the delegation during the Doha talks, aimed at addressing Islamabad’s security concerns and restoring cross-border peace. The two sides pledged mutual respect for sovereignty and agreed to meet again in Istanbul on October 25 for further dialogue.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar hailed the development as “the first step in the right direction”, expressing hope that the next meeting would establish a verifiable monitoring mechanism to curb terrorism from Afghan soil.

Regional stakeholders including Qatar, Turkiye, and Oman welcomed the accord, praising it as a foundation for sustainable peace in South Asia. Turkiye reiterated its commitment to support efforts for long-term stability in the region.

In Pakistan, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq called the pact a “significant step toward regional stability”, underscoring that peace in Afghanistan is inseparable from peace in Pakistan. He also emphasised the need for joint action against terrorism and enhanced cooperation.

Former U.S. diplomat Zalmay Khalilzad termed the agreement “good news from Doha”, while PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique called for its success and longevity.

However, former human rights minister Shireen Mazari raised concerns about the absence of any reference to FAK or the group’s safe havens in the agreement. “While a ceasefire is welcome, the issue of Afghan Taliban support for Fitna al Khawarij remains unaddressed,” she noted.

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The region now watches closely as the peace process heads to Istanbul, with hopes high for a durable resolution.