Border crossing at Torkham will reopen today

KABUL/PESHAWAR: Pakistan has loosened the criteria for travel documents until March 31, 2024, and as a result, the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan will reopen today.

This decision was made, according to sources in the local media, in response to a group of Afghan transporters and representatives who visited Pakistan’s embassy in Kabul to meet with trade authorities and make a plea for the reopening of the Torkham border.

Afghanistan had initially objected to Pakistan’s new visa and passport requirements for drivers and their helpers, which sparked tensions between the two countries and ultimately resulted in the crossing’s closure.

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and chamber of commerce delegation held negotiations with Pakistani embassy workers, citing the impact on trade, in order to request a relaxation of visa rules.

According to media sources, Pakistan has finally approved Afghanistan’s request and given drivers a reprieve till the end of March.

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Thousands of vehicles bringing coal and goods from Iran and Central Asia, including fruit, vegetables, and onions, were left stranded when the commerce crossing was closed. A customs official stated that Pakistan’s shipments to Afghanistan were zero during the blockade.

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According to Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Afghan government, an agreement between the two countries is imminent, and the public should anticipate good news shortly.