NATO has welcomed the announcement of a three-day cease-fire in Afghanistan during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr.

Axar.az reports citing Turkish media.

“I welcome the statements by the government of Afghanistan & the Taliban on a 3-day ceasefire over Eid. All parties should seize this opportunity for peace, for the benefit of all Afghans,” Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg tweeted late Saturday.

“NATO remains committed to Afghanistan’s long-term security,” he added.

In a message last evening, the insurgents made the surprise announcement amid escalating conflict and a shaky peace process, directing militants to stay out of areas under the government control, but said government forces could visit Taliban-controlled areas.

In a similar holiday truce two years ago, there were unprecedented scenes of fighters from opposite sides embracing each other and taking selfies.