Peshawar: The Torkham trade route between Pakistan and Afghanistan has officially reopened for vehicular movement after being closed for 25 days, following a successful flag meeting between officials from both countries.
The meeting, held at the Afghan Customs House near the Torkham border, marked the resolution of the tensions that had led to the closure of the crossing. Both countries endorsed the agreements made during a joint tribal jirga, and the decision was made to resume bilateral trade.
With the reopening of the trade corridor, cargo trucks have begun crossing into Afghanistan from Pakistan. Approximately 1,500 trucks pass through the Torkham border daily, facilitating crucial trade between the two nations. However, pedestrian movement will remain suspended for two to three more days due to damage to the Torkham immigration system caused by Afghan forces’ gunfire.
The reopening is expected to provide significant relief to both countries, as the Torkham route generates around $3 million in daily revenue for Pakistan and handles a substantial portion of the $2.5 billion annual trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Prior to the closure, the border had been a vital conduit for goods, with trade volume reaching up to $1.5 billion per day.
The Torkham border had been shut down after Afghanistan began infrastructure development at a disputed site, leading to cross-border tensions and unprovoked gunfire from Afghan forces. The closure had severely impacted bilateral trade, with both sides suffering economic losses.
A joint jirga comprising tribal elders from both sides had facilitated negotiations, eventually leading to an agreement. The Pakistani delegation, led by Khyber Rifles Commandant Colonel Asim Kayani, participated in the talks that ensured the resumption of cargo movement through the border.
Officials have stated that the situation is now under control, and trade is expected to return to normal. However, due to ongoing repairs to the Torkham immigration system, pedestrian movement will remain restricted for a few more days.
Authorities on both sides have expressed hope that the easing of tensions will allow for improved cooperation and stability along the border.
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