The foreign minister of Finland and co-chair of a high-level pledging conference on Afghanistan has called for an immediate, comprehensive, and nationwide ceasefire and protection of civilians.  

Acknowledging the efforts made by all parties involved in the peace and reconciliation process over the past few months, Pekka Haavisto said the EU strongly supports the process.

Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross Peter Maurer also made a similar call in a statement.