Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has announced that Pakistan and Afghanistan have reached a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending terrorism and ensuring long-term peace in the region.

The agreement was mediated by Qatar and Turkey, two key countries now serving as guarantors of the deal.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Khawaja Asif said terrorism has plagued the Pak-Afghan border areas for years, and recent clashes had underscored the urgency of addressing the issue.

“Both countries have realised that an immediate end to terrorism is necessary, otherwise regional peace could be at risk,” he said.

Qatar and Turkey to guarantee implementation

Asif confirmed that the agreement was reached through the joint mediation efforts of Qatar and Turkey, and a follow-up meeting to finalise operational details will be held in Istanbul next week.

He added that both sides had agreed to form an effective mechanism to address mutual concerns and prevent future misunderstandings. “The Afghan Defence Minister also admitted that terrorism remains the main cause of tension between the two countries,” Asif noted.

Restoring normalcy and regional trade

Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices, the Defence Minister said the country has suffered massive losses of life and property due to terrorism. “Now it is hoped that peace will return, relations will normalise, and Pak-Afghan trade and transit will be restored,” he said.

Asif mentioned that under the agreement, Afghanistan will once again be able to use Pakistani ports, which could help boost cross-border commerce and connectivity.

Clarifying Pakistan’s stance on refugees, Asif said that Afghan citizens holding valid visas will be allowed to stay in Pakistan, but the repatriation of illegal immigrants will continue. He stressed that the use of the Pak-Afghan border must be formal and regulated, similar to international standards.

“Pakistan and Afghanistan have been neighbours for centuries — geography cannot be changed,” Asif remarked. “It is hoped that after this agreement, both countries will move forward with better relations.”