Torkham Border Closure Continues Despite Ceasefire Agreement
The agreement on a ceasefire and the removal of the construction near the border has raised hopes for a resolution, but the delay in implementation has raised concerns about the fate of the trade route and the people who rely on it. The situation remains uncertain, with the meeting between border security officials on Wednesday being crucial in determining the next steps.
The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains closed, despite a ceasefire agreement reached during a joint Jirga on Monday, as Afghan authorities delay implementation pending final approval from higher authorities.
The border was closed on February 21 after Afghan forces attempted to construct a military checkpoint near Torkham, which Pakistani authorities objected to. A 2-hour meeting between the two sides on Monday ended on a positive note, with the Afghan side asking for a final recess to consult with their higher authorities on agreeing to Pakistan's conditions. The main points of discussion included the construction of a controversial check post near the border, a six-month ceasefire, and the reopening of the border.
The Afghan side insisted on reopening the border without any conditions, but Pakistan linked it to a ceasefire and the construction of a Customs Terminal on their side. The Afghan delegation was told that any misadventure regarding the check post would be met with a stern response from Pakistan. A meeting between border security officials from both sides is scheduled for Wednesday to discuss the reopening of the border.
The Torkham crossing facilitates $3 million in daily trade and sees 10,000 people movement, making its reopening crucial for the economies of both countries. Pakistani officials are satisfied with Afghan authorities' decision to remove the construction and agree to a ceasefire, which will remain in place until the Joint Coordination Committee meeting.
The closure of the Torkham border has entered its 25th day, and emergency consultations are under way between the Afghan Jirga and their authorities. A flag meeting will be held before the trade route reopens, and the outcome of the discussions is still uncertain, despite hopes for a resolution to the border issue.