ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have agreed to continue the ceasefire following a week-long round of talks held in Istanbul. The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced the decision in a joint statement released on Thursday night.
The discussions, mediated by Turkiye and Qatar, were focused on strengthening the ceasefire initially reached in Doha earlier this month. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to peace and regional stability during the talks.
According to the joint declaration, Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have also agreed to establish a joint monitoring and verification mechanism to ensure the full implementation of the ceasefire. “This system will guarantee the continuity of peace,” the statement added.
The monitoring system will oversee compliance from both sides, with fines imposed on any party found violating the agreement. The rules and mechanisms for enforcing the ceasefire will be finalized during the next round of negotiations scheduled for November 6 in Istanbul.
The talks, held from October 25 to 30, aimed to reinforce the understanding reached in Doha on October 18 and 19. Both Turkiye and Qatar appreciated the constructive approach shown by Pakistan and Afghanistan, expressing hope for continued cooperation toward lasting peace in the region.
In their joint statement, the mediator nations praised the “positive and responsible conduct” of both delegations and reiterated their support for sustained stability. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry also expressed optimism that the upcoming meeting would finalize a framework for long-term peace.
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information, Atta Tarar, welcomed the joint declaration, stating that it aligns with Pakistan’s position and places responsibility on the Afghan Taliban to prevent cross-border terrorism.
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He added that Pakistan has sought assurances from the Taliban regime that Afghan soil will not be used against its neighbor. Tarar also commended Turkiye and Qatar for their active role in facilitating dialogue and supporting peace efforts between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban.
