Feb 27 • 12:59 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Qatar discusses de-escalation with Pakistan and Afghanistan

Qatar is engaging in discussions with Pakistan and Afghanistan to reduce tensions amid escalating border conflicts.

Qatar has taken the initiative to mediate discussions aimed at de-escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, as both countries have been experiencing exchanges of military attacks along their shared border. The Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khalifi, engaged in phone calls with both Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. During these discussions, the focus was on supporting peaceful resolutions to conflicts to foster stability and peace both regionally and internationally.

This diplomatic engagement comes in the wake of heightened tensions, including recent comments from Pakistan's Defense Minister Khwaja Asif declaring "open war" against the Afghan government, which reflects the increasing hostilities between the two nations. This statement was made shortly before Pakistan conducted airstrikes targeting Kabul and several other Afghan provinces in retaliation for previous military action taken by Afghanistan. The situation is critical, as these military exchanges have resulted in numerous casualties and threaten to further destabilize regional security.

Qatar has been a longstanding mediator in various conflicts in the region, and its involvement in these discussions underscores its commitment to fostering diplomacy and dialogue. As the situation evolves, the role of Qatar may be pivotal in facilitating further negotiations to prevent escalation and to work towards a sustainable peace that can benefit the broader region.

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