IEA-MoFA statement regarding closure of Torkham gate

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan deems the closure of Torkham gate and opening of fire on Afghan security forces by the Pakistani side contrary to good neighborliness.

 

The government of Pakistan closed Torkham gate last Wednesday following firing by Pakistani security forces on Afghan security forces as they were carrying out repair work on an old security post constructed several years ago.

 

The closure of Torkham gate can adversely affect bilateral and regional trade, and cause trade and financial losses to common mercantile class on both sides.

 

Recently, a truck of an Afghan businessman loaded with figs headed to India via Wagah border was burnt near a Pakistani police checkpoint, engendering grave concern and mistrust.

 

Moreover, the Pakistani government recently stopped hundreds of containers loaded with Afghan goods at Karachi port under the pretext of Sensitive List.

 

Unfortunately, in contravention of previous commitments, and customary and international laws, the Pakistani side often creates hindrances at Karachi port and closes crossing points under unjustified pretexts during the advent of Afghan agricultural and fruits season which not only harms bilateral trade, but also fosters distance between the fraternal people and countries, while creating impediments and delays for regional trade and transit.

 

As a large number of people (women, elderly and children), including funalerals, are stranded on both sides of Torkham, the closure of the gate cannot be justified under any circumstances.

 

As the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan emphasizes commitment to resolving issues through understanding and diplomatic dialogue, and considering its economic-centric foreign policy with facilitation of regional trade and transit at its core, it reminds the Pakistani side that such actions are also detrimental to the trade of Afghanistan, region and national economy of Pakistan, which is currently dependent on exports more than ever.

 

It is necessary that both sides seek solutions to these problems through understanding in a bid to promote regional trade, transit and economic growth, and not allow political and other issues to undermine economy, trade and free movement of people.