Reopening of Torkham Border Crossing: A Step Towards Economic Resumption
The Torkham border crossing, key for trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, reopened after a month of closure due to construction work by Afghan authorities. The reopening is expected to revive trade valued over $1.6 billion. Officials from both sides stress the importance of separating political issues from economic cooperation to enhance relations and reduce losses resulting from border disruptions.
The Torkham border crossing, an essential point for trade and travel between Pakistan and Afghanistan, has reopened after being closed for nearly a month. This closure, which began on February 21, occurred due to construction activities initiated by Afghan authorities along the border, resulting in the suspension of cross-border trade. The reopening allows for the resumption of trade, which was valued over $1.6 billion in 2024 according to Pakistan’s foreign office.
Naheed Khan, a senior police official in Pakistan’s Khyber district, confirmed the border’s reopening for transportation. Afghan customs agent Hazrat Nabi Toor also acknowledged that the passageway at Torkham had reopened, facilitating the flow of trucks between the two countries. Hajji Hikmatullah, the Torkham gate commissioner in Afghanistan, indicated that the border would open around 4:00 p.m., with passenger movement expected to resume by Friday.
Hikmatullah emphasized the need for both nations to devise a comprehensive strategy that delineates political issues from business interests to strengthen economic relationships. Asghar Ali, a customs agent in Pakistan, reported that the news prompted a surge of vehicles, laden with goods such as vegetables and fruits, toward the border.
The closure had significant economic repercussions, leading to millions of dollars in losses for traders. Border disputes have historically disrupted trade and hampered the movement of people, with Torkham and Chaman crossings seeing such closures previously. Last month, the Torkham closure resulted in a conflict between border forces, injuring three Pakistani civilians.
This development unfolds amid heightened tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, exacerbated by a rise in militant attacks in Pakistan’s western provinces adjacent to Afghanistan. Islamabad has repeatedly accused Afghan authorities of providing refuge to militant groups responsible for cross-border assaults, while Afghan officials refute these claims and urge Pakistan to address its own security challenges.
The reopening of the Torkham border crossing marks a significant step towards the resumption of trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan after a prolonged closure. Despite previous tensions and challenges posed by political disputes, stakeholders from both nations are advocating for cooperative economic strategies. Continued dialogue and resolution of security concerns may enhance the trade dynamics and foster better bilateral relations in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
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