Permanent truce mediated by Ankara: Pakistan and Afghanistan to hold next talks in Istanbul

Escalating clashes last week between Pakistan and Afghanistan ended after talks held in Doha, hosted and mediated by Turkey and Qatar.

The parties reached an agreement on a “permanent truce.” Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said the truce has been finalized and that both sides will reconvene in Istanbul on October 25 to discuss detailed issues. Asif thanked Turkey and Qatar for their active roles in securing the truce.

Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also stated that the parties agreed on a full and meaningful ceasefire.

Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the declaration of the truce, saying it is pleased with the decision to establish mechanisms to strengthen peace and stability between Afghanistan and Pakistan reached during the Doha talks.

The statement also praised Qatar’s efforts as host and reaffirmed that Turkey will continue to support efforts to secure lasting peace and stability between the two neighboring countries and across the region.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said follow-up meetings will be held to ensure the sustainability of the truce and to confirm its reliable and lasting implementation.

The Istanbul meeting on October 25 is expected to address issues such as truce implementation, monitoring mechanisms, border security, humanitarian access, and mutual confidence-building measures.

Experts say the mediation roles of Turkey and Qatar could be decisive for regional stability, and that monitoring mechanisms and confidence-building steps between the parties will be critical for achieving a lasting truce.