DOHA — Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed Sunday to an immediate ceasefire following talks in Doha mediated by Qatar and Türkiye, officials from both countries confirmed.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif announced that the two neighbors reached an understanding to respect each other’s territorial sovereignty, adding that delegations from both sides will meet again in Istanbul on Oct. 25 for further discussions.

“Negotiations between representatives of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, held in Qatar, have concluded with the signing of a bilateral agreement,” Afghan interim administration spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on X.

He said both sides reaffirmed their commitment to peace, mutual respect, and the preservation of “strong and constructive neighborly relations,” adding that they agreed to refrain from targeting each other’s security forces, civilians, or infrastructure.

Mujahid noted that a follow-up mechanism, with third-party mediation, will be established to review any claims and ensure the ceasefire is upheld.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar hailed the Doha agreement as “the first step in the right direction,” expressing gratitude to Qatar and Türkiye for their mediation efforts.

“Deeply appreciate the constructive role played by brotherly Qatar and Türkiye,” Dar said on X, calling for all efforts to prevent further loss of life.

The Qatari Foreign Ministry said the two countries agreed to establish mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability, expressing hope the ceasefire would reduce tensions along the shared border and serve as a foundation for sustainable peace in the region.

The Doha talks followed a sharp escalation in border clashes last week, which resulted in dozens of casualties on both sides. — Agencies