The Torkham border, a crucial gateway for trade and travel between Pakistan and Afghanistan, has reopened after a 25-day closure. Authorities from both countries reached a ceasefire agreement, allowing commercial trucks to resume operations. From Friday onwards, pedestrian crossings will also be permitted, restoring movement between the two nations.
Trade Resumes After Long Disruption
The closure, which began on February 21, halted all cross-border trade and travel. It was triggered by a dispute over Afghan forces building a bunker near Zero-Point, leading to clashes with Pakistan’s Frontier Corps (FC). The standoff left hundreds of trucks stranded, disrupting vital food and commercial supply chains to Afghanistan.
With the reopening, bilateral trade has resumed, and trucks loaded with goods have started entering Afghanistan. Officials expect the restored flow of goods to ease economic pressure on both sides.
Ceasefire and Removal of Disputed Structure
Pakistani tribal jirga leader Syed Jawad Hussain Kazmi confirmed that Afghan officials agreed to remove the controversial construction, which had fueled tensions. A ceasefire will remain in place until the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meets, ensuring continued stability.
Pakistani security officials welcomed this development, expressing satisfaction with Afghanistan’s decision to de-escalate the situation.
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Economic Impact of the Closure
Before the closure, the Torkham border facilitated daily trade worth around $3 million. The disruption affected businesses on both sides, with Afghanistan relying heavily on food imports from Pakistan. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $1.6 billion, highlighting the economic significance of this route.
Aside from trade, the border crossing sees the daily movement of approximately 10,000 people, including traders, medical patients, and workers. The reopening is expected to revive economic activity and ease hardships for those dependent on cross-border movement.
Security Concerns and Ongoing Tensions
While the reopening is a positive step, security concerns remain. Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghanistan to prevent its soil from being used by terrorist groups, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Islamabad has pointed to reports, including one submitted to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), detailing the alleged support provided by Kabul to the TTP.
The 2,500-kilometer-long border remains a source of regional tensions, with both nations seeking to balance trade interests with security challenges.
Looking Ahead
The reopening of the Torkham border marks a critical step toward restoring stability in trade and regional relations. However, the long-term resolution of border disputes and security concerns will require continuous diplomatic efforts. The upcoming JCC meeting will play a key role in shaping future engagements between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
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