KABUL, (DNA) – US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a surprise visit to Kabul Monday for talks with Afghan leaders, an Afghan official said, amid renewed optimism for peace in the war-weary country.

Pompeo’s first official visit to Afghanistan since he was sworn in as America’s top diplomat in April follows an unprecedented ceasefire during Eid last month.

The Islamic holiday was marked by spontaneous street celebrations involving Afghan security forces and Taliban militants.

The official confirmed Pompeo’s arrival on the condition of anonymity. A joint press conference with President Ashraf Ghani is due to start shortly.