China Welcomes Pakistan-Afghanistan 48-Hour Temporary Ceasefire Decision

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (FO) announced today that the Government of Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban regime have agreed to a $48$-hour temporary ceasefire, effective from $6\text{pm}$ Wednesday. Reached with mutual consent, this cessation of hostilities was agreed upon at the request of the Taliban and is intended to facilitate constructive dialogue to find a positive solution to complex border issues.

This move follows a recent surge in cross-border tensions, including precision strikes conducted by Pakistan’s Armed Forces in Afghanistan, and defensive action to repulse attacks by the Afghan Taliban along the Balochistan border, which regrettably resulted in the martyrdom of $23$ Pakistani troops in earlier incidents. Pakistan continues to assert its right and resolve to defend itself against terrorist groups utilizing Afghan territory for attacks.

The diplomatic progress has drawn international support. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, publicly endorsed the exercise of restraint and offered to play a constructive role in improving bilateral relations. Similarly, the United Nations rights chief, Volker Turk, welcomed the development, appealing to both parties to prevent civilian harm and commit to a lasting truce.

Pakistani officials confirm the ceasefire remains effective, with no violence reported overnight. This critical $48$-hour window is viewed as an essential first step towards de-escalation and securing long-term border stability.

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