UNITED NATIONS, May 10 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.

"The Secretary-General welcomes the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan as a positive step toward ending current hostilities and easing tensions," Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for the UN chief, said in a statement.

"He hopes the agreement will contribute to lasting peace and foster an environment conducive to addressing broader, longstanding issues between the two countries," Dujarric said.

The spokesman added that the United Nations stands ready to support efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.

Pakistan and India announced earlier Saturday a ceasefire with immediate effect, following days of military strikes on each other. ■