Afghanistan and Pakistan to hold peace talks in Doha today

Afghanistan and Pakistan will hold peace talks in Doha on October 18, both sides said, after the neighbours extended a ceasefire following a week of fierce border clashes.

Pakistan and Afghanistan on Friday extended the 48-hour truce for the duration of the Doha talks, as they seek to resolve the clashes that killed dozens and wounded hundreds in the worst violence between the two countries since 2021.

"As promised, negotiations with the Pakistani side will take place today in Doha," Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said.

According to him, the Kabul team led by Defence Minister Mullah Muhammad Yaqoob arrived in Doha.

Pakistan's foreign office, in turn, said Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif will lead discussions with representatives of the Afghan Taliban.

"The talks will focus on immediate measures to end cross-border terrorism against Pakistan emanating from Afghanistan and restore peace and stability along the Pak-Afghan border," the statement reads.