Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has emphasised the importance of bilateral trade through the Pak-Afghan border, announcing that a provincial-level jirga has been formed for negotiations with the Afghan government.

According to a statement issued by the chief minister’s press secretary, Ali Amin Gandapur met with Afghan Consul General Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir in Peshawar.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, including enhancing bilateral trade, regional peace and stability and addressing the challenges faced by Afghan citizens residing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

They also discussed the ongoing closure of the Torkham border and the hardships it has caused for traders and civilians on both sides.

Also, read this

Gandapur warns of consequences over rights denial

Gandapur challenges Maryam to a performance-based debate

PM Shehbaz: Afghanistan must prevent its soil from being used against Pakistan

Efforts to reopen the border before Eid

Considering Ramazan and Eid al-Fitr, both parties agreed to work towards an early reopening of the border.

Ali Amin Gandapur stated that the border closure has severely affected traders and transporters, especially during Ramazan.

He stressed that keeping the border shut is not in the interest of people on either side, as it disrupts businesses and causes unnecessary difficulties for ordinary citizens.

“We are making every effort to reopen the border as soon as possible, and we urge the Afghan Embassy to play its role in this matter,” he added.

The chief minister highlighted that both Pakistan and Afghanistan have suffered due to regional instability and that peace is in the best interest of both nations.

“Dialogue is the most effective means to achieve lasting peace in the region,” he said, confirming that a provincial-level jirga has been formed for negotiations with the Afghan government.

However, he noted that the terms of reference (ToRs) for the jirga are awaiting approval from the federal government, after which it will be dispatched to Afghanistan.

To facilitate Afghan nationals traveling for trade, medical treatment, and education, special border desks are being set up.

Gandapur added that talks with international organizations are underway to provide Afghan visitors with health and education cards during their stay in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.