Comment
Shamim Shahid
PESHAWAR: After nearly a week of intense border clashes that claimed dozens of lives on both sides, Pakistan and Afghanistan reached a ceasefire agreement late Saturday during negotiations held in Doha, Qatar.
The breakthrough, facilitated by the State of Qatar with assistance from the Republic of Turkiya, aims to restore calm and open a new chapter in bilateral relations. China and Iran have been designated as guarantors to ensure compliance with the terms of the accord.
According to the agreement, Afghanistan has pledged not to allow its territory to be used for any activity against Pakistan, while in return, Pakistan will continue providing humanitarian support to Afghan refugees.
While no formal statements have yet been released by Islamabad or Kabul, the ceasefire news has sparked widespread relief and optimism among citizens of both countries. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages celebrating the “return of hope” and “brotherly peace” between the two neighbors.
In a statement confirming the development, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said,
“A round of negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Afghanistan was held in Doha, mediated by the State of Qatar and the Republic of Turkiya. The two sides agreed to an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability between the two countries.”
The statement further added that both parties would hold follow-up meetings in the coming days to ensure the sustainability and effective implementation of the agreement, contributing to long-term security and regional stability.
The detailed text of the ceasefire agreement outlines several key provisions:
· Immediate cessation of hostilities and creation of a Joint Border Coordination Office to manage communication between military officials.
· Afghanistan’s assurance that its soil will not be used by any group, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to conduct attacks against Pakistan.
· Pakistan’s reaffirmation to continue humanitarian support for Afghan refugees in line with Islamic and humanitarian principles.
· Establishment of Peace Corridors at Chaman and Torkham to facilitate trade and human connectivity.
· Media restraint clauses, directing both nations to avoid hostile rhetoric and promote messages of Islamic brotherhood.
· Monitoring and review mechanisms, with Qatar hosting quarterly meetings to assess progress.
The ceasefire agreement, effective immediately, will remain valid for two years and can be extended by mutual consent — marking a potentially historic step toward lasting peace and cooperation in the region.
