By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi
PESHAWAR: A joint Pakistan-Afghanistan peace jirga is scheduled to be held in Peshawar on 31 March, aimed at developing a framework to promote peace, stability and dialogue between the two neighboring countries.
The announcement was made by former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief secretary and Aspire-Khyber Pakhtunkhwa head Arbab Shezad Khan at a joint press conference alongside Qaumi Islahi Tehreek chief Haji Sohrab Ali Khan.
The development comes amid Pakistan’s ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq targeting militants and their support infrastructure in neighboring Afghanistan. Islamabad launched the operation last month following what it described as unprovoked aggression by the Afghan Taliban along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border.
Khan said prominent political leaders, tribal elders, religious scholars, civil society representatives, members of the business community and media personnel would attend the jirga. Political figures who have previously worked towards peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan have also been invited.
“The peace jirga will focus on mutual respect, trust-building and serious negotiations for lasting peace,” he said, adding that a joint declaration would be issued at the conclusion of the meeting and shared with the governments of both countries.
He said the initiative aims to establish a common pathway for peace and stability through dialogue and negotiations, describing the effort as the “need of the hour” amid heightened tensions.
Khan added that similar jirgas are planned in Quetta and other regions following the 31 March meeting, bringing together stakeholders to chart a broader roadmap for peace. Participants are expected to call on the leadership of both countries to implement an immediate ceasefire, reduce tensions and resolve disputes through diplomatic channels.
