Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that the recent peace agreement reached between Pakistan and Afghanistan is a significant step which will lead to the elimination of terrorism and the establishment of lasting peace in the region.

In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabia, Khawaja Asif praised the mediation efforts of Qatar and Turkey, noting that both countries played a key role in the agreement.

Khawaja Asif said that last week’s terrorist incidents had escalated into direct clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, prompting both nations to realise that peace is impossible without the immediate elimination of terrorism.

According to the defence minister, the core objective of the agreement is to dismantle terrorist networks in border areas and ease bilateral tensions.

Asif added that a meeting will be held next week in Istanbul to finalise the details of the agreement, brokered with the mediation of Qatar and Turkey.

He noted, “The Afghan defence minister has also acknowledged that terrorism is the primary source of tension between the two countries, and effective measures will be implemented to control it.”

Khawaja Asif emphasised that the presence of Qatar and Turkey guarantees the agreement’s success.

Expressing hope, the minister said that the pact is expected to normalise Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, reduce border tensions, and restore trade and transit systems between the two countries.

He stated that Afghanistan will once again have access to Pakistani ports, while Afghan refugees with valid visas and identification documents will be allowed to stay in Pakistan.

However, he clarified that the repatriation of undocumented refugees will continue.

Khawaja Asif further emphasised that the Pakistan-Afghanistan border should now be used formally and in accordance with international standards to prevent any future misunderstandings or conflicts.

“It is too early to claim full satisfaction; we will have to observe in the coming weeks and months how effectively this agreement is implemented,” he added.

Referring to the enduring neighbourly ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Khawaja Asif said, “We hope that this agreement will enable both countries to move forward with trust and cooperation, ushering in a new era of peace and development in the region.”