The resumption of cross-border trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan follows a temporary disruption caused by Pakistan’s introduction of a new visa rule. Commercial traffic came to a standstill when Pakistan enforced a requirement for the crew of commercial vehicles to possess passports and visas. In response, Afghanistan refused entry to trucks, leading to a suspension of trade. A Pakistan customs official revealed that talks between officials from the Ministry of Commerce and their Afghan counterparts resulted in an agreement to extend the implementation of the new rule by an additional two weeks for Afghan drivers. This decision followed two prior deferrals by Pakistan.
The media office of the governor of Nangarhar province in Afghanistan confirmed the normalization of cross-border trade after diplomatic discussions. The statement indicated optimism that the issue would be permanently resolved. The situation has unfolded against the backdrop of strained relations between Kabul and Islamabad, exacerbated by Pakistan’s plans to deport hundreds of thousands of Afghan migrants allegedly residing illegally in the country. Approximately 340,000 Afghans have been deported or voluntarily returned thus far.
Pakistan’s imposition of a requirement for passports and visas represents a departure from a longstanding practice allowing individuals to cross the border with national identity cards. Afghanistan, a landlocked nation heavily reliant on imports through Pakistan, faced disruptions in trade. Pakistan, grappling with a significant economic crisis, contends that allowing duty-free entry for Afghan-bound goods results in substantial financial losses. Additionally, concerns about smuggling and illegal sales further complicated the situation.
Pakistan justified the mass deportation of migrants by citing the need to safeguard its welfare and security, particularly in light of an increase in attacks attributed to militants operating from Afghanistan. The Taliban government in Afghanistan has consistently asserted that it does not permit foreign militants to use its territory, characterizing Pakistan’s security concerns as a domestic matter.
This recent development highlights the intricate diplomatic and economic challenges in the region, as both countries navigate issues related to trade, security, and the movement of people across their shared border.
