CHAMAN: The vital Chaman border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained completely sealed for the 28th consecutive day on Friday, crippling trade and stranding pedestrians amid a tense military standoff. The border closure, a consequence of deadly clashes on October 10th, has inflicted millions of dollars in losses on businesses and traders reliant on the key transit route.
The prolonged shutdown has brought all commercial and pedestrian movement to a grinding halt, creating significant economic hardship on both sides of the frontier. The situation at the border remains volatile, with sources reporting sporadic exchanges of fire between Pakistani and Afghan border forces in recent days. A temporary ceasefire was subsequently established, which, notably, allowed for the resumption of the Pakistani government’s program for the repatriation of undocumented Afghan refugees.
As the physical border stays shut, diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis are being channeled through a separate track. According to sources, high-level talks between Pakistani and Afghan officials are currently underway in Istanbul, Turkey. The discussions are said to be focused on critical issues, including the terms for reopening the border, the resumption of trade, and establishing a framework for future cross-border movement.
Meanwhile, security in Chaman town and at the border zero line remains on high alert. Pakistani security forces have fortified their positions, anticipating any potential escalation. The outcome of the Istanbul talks is being closely watched by the business community and residents, whose livelihoods are directly tied to the flow of goods and people through this crucial gateway. The continued closure underscores the deep-seated tensions and the complex challenges facing relations between the two neighboring nations.
Meanwhile the deadlock continues in the ongoing talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
According to TV reports, the latest round of negotiations held in Istanbul, Turkey, appears to be heading toward another stalemate.
The talks reportedly failed to yield results due to the Afghan delegation’s rigid stance, preventing both sides from reaching a written agreement on counterterrorism measures.
Pakistan expressed gratitude to Qatar and Turkey for their mediation efforts. Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Atta Tarar, stated that the responsibility for eliminating terrorism rests with Afghanistan.
