The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan reopened on Wednesday after nearly a month of closure due to Afghan construction activities. This reopening is expected to restore trade, which was valued at over $1.6 billion in 2024. Officials from both sides emphasized the need for separating politics from business to improve economic ties amid ongoing tensions.
On Wednesday, the Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan reopened after nearly a month of closure, allowing for the resumption of trade. The closure, initiated by Afghan authorities for construction work on February 21, had significantly hindered cross-border movement and commerce. The Torkham crossing serves as a vital transit route for both travelers and goods, facilitating trade that exceeded $1.6 billion in 2024, according to Pakistan’s foreign office.
Naheed Khan, a senior police official in Pakistan’s Khyber district, confirmed the reopening, stating, “The Torkham gate has been reopened for transport.” Meanwhile, Hazrat Nabi Toor, an Afghan customs clearing agent, also verified that truck movements to and from Afghanistan were resuming. Hajji Hikmatullah, the Torkham gate commissioner from Afghanistan, mentioned that the reopening would assist many trucks that had been stranded during the closure.
Hikmatullah expressed the need for a “comprehensive strategy” between the two nations to separate political issues from trade, promoting enhanced economic relations. Following the announcement, Asghar Ali, a customs clearing agent in Pakistan, noted a surge of vehicles carrying non-perishable goods heading towards the crossing, emphasizing the economic impact of the border closure on traders. Ali remarked, “This border closure inflicted millions of dollars of losses on businessmen.”
Historically, border clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces have resulted in closures of significant crossings like Torkham and Chaman, disrupting trade and travel. The recent Torkham closure had escalated into a skirmish, injuring three civilians from Pakistan. This reopening occurs amid heightened tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, attributed to an increase in militant attacks within Pakistan’s border regions. Islamabad has accused Afghanistan of harboring militant groups responsible for these attacks, while Afghan officials have refuted these claims, urging Pakistan to address its domestic security challenges.
The reopening of the Torkham border crossing marks a significant step towards reinstating trade and mobility between Pakistan and Afghanistan after a prolonged closure due to construction activities. The situation underscores the importance of developing robust economic collaboration while minimizing political tensions. The economic repercussions of border closures necessitate a focus on cohesive strategies that foster trade without interference from political disputes. Overall, the reopening not only benefits commerce but also highlights the ongoing challenges in the diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
