Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that the recently agreed ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan hinges on the Taliban’s ability to prevent militants operating from Afghan territory from attacking Pakistan.
Speaking to Reuters on Monday, Asif emphasized that the continuation of peace along the border depends entirely on Kabul’s commitment to halting cross-border incursions.
The ceasefire, brokered in Doha over the weekend, followed several days of deadly clashes that killed dozens on both sides — the worst confrontation since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021.
Islamabad launched airstrikes and ground operations along the 2,600-kilometre border after accusing the Afghan Taliban of allowing the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to use Afghan soil as a base for attacks.
“Anything coming from Afghanistan will be a violation of this agreement,” Asif stated, adding that “everything hinges on this one clause.”
The agreement, signed by Pakistan, Afghanistan, Qatar, and Turkey, clearly prohibits any border incursions. According to Asif, the ceasefire will remain effective as long as both sides respect its terms.
Asif confirmed that Qatar and Turkey mediated the talks and will act as guarantors for the implementation of the accord. A follow-up meeting is scheduled in Istanbul next week to finalize operational details and establish a mechanism to prevent future misunderstandings. The Afghan Defence Minister, he added, acknowledged terrorism as the primary cause of tension between the two countries.
Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, Asif said the country has endured immense human and economic losses. He expressed hope that peace will now return, restoring bilateral relations and reviving cross-border trade.
Under the agreement, Afghanistan will regain access to Pakistani ports, potentially enhancing regional commerce. Asif reiterated that only Afghan citizens with valid visas will be allowed to stay, while the repatriation of illegal immigrants will continue.
