Pakistan has welcomed international efforts to ease tensions in the region after a temporary ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan during Eid. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Türkiye’s role in facilitating dialogue and promoting stability.
The ceasefire, announced separately by Islamabad and Kabul, came into effect from March 18/19 and is set to continue until March 23/24. It marks a rare pause in hostilities following days of escalating cross-border tensions. Officials warned that any violation could lead to renewed military action.
According to government sources, the truce was achieved through mediation by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. During a telephone conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed the situation in Afghanistan and the broader Middle East. Both leaders agreed that diplomacy and negotiations remain the only viable path to long-term peace.
The prime minister also expressed solidarity with Türkiye amid ongoing regional instability and recent attacks, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for its ally. He extended Eid greetings to President Erdoğan and emphasized the importance of unity across the Muslim world.
In a separate call, Shehbaz Sharif spoke with King Abdullah II to discuss rising tensions in the Middle East. He condemned recent attacks on Jordan and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace and stability in the region. Both leaders stressed the need for restraint, de-escalation, and constructive dialogue.
The temporary ceasefire has also been welcomed by the United Nations and Turkish authorities, who expressed hope that it could lead to a more lasting peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Tensions between the two neighbouring countries had intensified in recent months due to cross-border security concerns and militant activity. Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns about the presence of militant groups operating from Afghan territory, while clashes along the border have led to military responses on both sides.
The latest ceasefire offers a brief window for diplomacy and confidence-building, with regional and international stakeholders urging both countries to extend the truce and work toward a sustainable peace framework.
