The Torkham border crossing reopened after nearly a month, restoring trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Closed since February 21 due to Afghan construction, the reopening is expected to alleviate economic losses and enhance transport capabilities. Officials urged collaboration to strengthen economic ties, despite ongoing tensions between the two nations.
The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened after being closed for nearly a month, facilitating the resumption of trade activities. The closure, initiated by Pakistan on February 21 due to Afghan construction work along the border, resulted in halted cross-border trade and movement.
As the principal transit route for travel and goods, Torkham is crucial for Afghanistan, which is landlocked. In 2024, trade value between the two nations exceeded $1.6 billion, according to the foreign office in Pakistan.
Naheed Khan, a senior police official from the Khyber district, confirmed the reopening of Torkham for transport. Similarly, Hazrat Nabi Toor, an Afghan customs clearing agent, reported that the border could now facilitate the movement of trucks.
Hajji Hikmatullah, the Torkham gate commissioner in Afghanistan, expressed optimism about the reopening, stating it would enable stranded trucks to reach their destinations effectively. He called for a coordinated strategy to segregate political issues from business initiatives to strengthen economic relations.
Following the announcement of the border’s reopening, Asghar Ali, a customs clearing agent from Pakistan, noted a surge of vehicles transporting fruits and vegetables toward Torkham. Asghar remarked on the significant economic losses incurred during the closure, emphasizing that trade should remain unaffected by diplomatic disputes.
Historically, border skirmishes have prompted closures of vital crossings like Torkham and Chaman, greatly disrupting trade and the movement of individuals. The recent closure resulted in clashes, injuring three Pakistani civilians. This situation arises amidst heightened tensions between Kabul and Islamabad due to increased militant activities against Pakistan, which Islamabad attributes to Afghan support for militant groups, a claim Afghan officials deny.
In summary, the reopening of the Torkham border crossing marks a significant development in resuming trade relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan after a prolonged closure. It highlights the vital importance of commercial exchanges and calls for a strategic approach that separates political conflicts from business interests. This reopening is essential for alleviating the economic strain faced by both nations and restoring normalcy in cross-border movements.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
