Turkiye and Qatar praise constructive engagement of both sides for regional stability
ISTANBUL, October 31, 2025: Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have reached an agreement to extend the ongoing ceasefire, following a week-long round of talks in Istanbul. The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed the development late Thursday night through a joint declaration issued with Qatar and the two negotiating parties.
The talks, which took place between October 25 and 30, focused on solidifying the initial Doha ceasefire agreement reached earlier this month and establishing mechanisms to ensure lasting peace and accountability.
Joint Monitoring and Verification System Established
According to the declaration, both Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban agreed to create a joint monitoring and verification system to ensure compliance with the ceasefire terms.
“This system will ensure the continuity of peace,” the joint statement read. It added that any violations of the ceasefire would result in fines or sanctions imposed on the offending party. The rules and mechanisms governing this enforcement will be finalized in the next round of talks on November 6, also in Istanbul.
Mediators Praise Constructive Dialogue
Turkiye and Qatar, who jointly mediated the negotiations, welcomed the positive and responsible approach of both sides. In a statement, the mediators praised the progress made and reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and stability.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry separately commended both delegations for their constructive participation and expressed hope that the upcoming talks would finalize a long-term peace framework. It also thanked Turkiye for hosting and facilitating the discussions.
Pakistan Welcomes Outcome
Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar hailed the joint declaration, calling it a diplomatic success for Pakistan that strengthens its position on cross-border security and counterterrorism.
“The declaration clearly places the responsibility of preventing terrorism on the Afghan Taliban,” Tarar said in an interview with Samaa TV. He added that the situation would be closely monitored until November 6, emphasizing that any terrorist activity during this period would make the Taliban accountable under the agreement.
Tarar also acknowledged the active mediation role of Turkiye and Qatar, noting their contribution to facilitating a balanced and constructive dialogue between both sides.
Next Steps
The next phase of negotiations is scheduled for November 6 in Istanbul, where the enforcement mechanisms of the ceasefire and long-term peace guarantees are expected to be finalized. Both sides have agreed to maintain open diplomatic channels until then.