LANDIKOTAL
The Torkham border remained closed for the 25th consecutive day despite a mutual understanding developed between the Pakistan-Afghan jirga in the second round of talks the other day to reopen the crossing, as the final approval to reopen the border still awaits confirmation from Islamabad and Kabul, sources said on Tuesday.
They said that a high-level Pakistan-Afghanistan jirga, which met in Afghanistan on Monday, successfully brokered a ceasefire and agreed on the immediate resumption of all forms of movement through Torkham.
Custom agents association president Mujeeb Khan Shinwari,who is the jirga member, said that Afghan officials sought additional time for consultations on halting disputed border constructions, a key sticking point in the negotiations.
Pakistani Jirga head and Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) advisor Syed Jawad Hussain Kazmi expressed optimism, stating that a final response from Afghan authorities is expected soon.
Kazmi said both sides had agreed to address the issue of border constructions in the upcoming Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting.
“Until then, all disputed constructions will remain suspended and the ceasefire will be upheld. The JCC will be reactivated to ensure smoother communication and crisis management between the two countries” Kazmi said.
The Pakistani delegation, comprising 36 members led by Kazmi, included Khyber Chamber of Commerce President Haji Muhammad Yousaf, while the Afghan side had 25 members.
Mujeeb Khan Shinwari, President of the Torkham Customs Clearing Agents Association, confirmed that both countries’ border officials have reached an understanding on reopening Torkham and maintaining stability. He said that Islamabad and Kabul remain in talks to finalize an agreement that could lead to a long-term resolution of border tensions.
The border closure, triggered by clashes over Afghan forces’ construction of a military checkpoint in disputed territory in February21, has severely impacted trade and daily cross-border movement.
According to Kazmi, Pakistan has lost an estimated $72 million in customs revenue over the past 25 days, with nearly 10,000 people affected daily by the shutdown. The situation remained critical as traders, travelers and border communities eagerly await a final breakthrough in diplomatic negotiations.
