Pakistan Afghan officials trade allegations as situation remains tense at border
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The Torkham border crossing remained closed to the general public and business activities for the sixth consecutive day on Sunday due to an ongoing dispute between Pakistani and Afghan border security officials. This deadlock emerged following an exchange of gunfire that took place last Wednesday, leading to the abrupt closure of the border. The situation has left countless individuals and businesses on both sides of the border grappling with significant disruptions.
In an attempt to resolve the impasse, representatives from both Pakistan and Afghanistan convened for discussions. On the Pakistani side, the delegation was led by Khyber Rifles Commandant Asim Kiyani, Lt Col Ahmad Mujtaba of Chitral Scouts, Lt Col Zainul Abideen, and Maj Shahabuddin.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan was represented by Hafiz Asmatullah Yaqoobi from Gumrak (Customs), Qari Meraj from the border security forces, and Mulavi Takal.
During the meeting, both parties addressed the critical issue of border security, with Afghan officials alleging that Pakistani border forces initiated the firing on September 6 while construction work on new security posts was underway. In response, the Afghan side refuted these claims, asserting that they were not responsible for initiating the gunfire.
The discussions led to agreements on certain key points. Among them, Afghanistan committed to informing Pakistan about any developments related to the construction of new structures within a hundred-meter radius of the border.
Pakistani officials expressed their willingness to support the rebuilding of old posts or security infrastructure. Despite these agreements, the Torkham border's continued closure underscores the pressing need for a swift resolution to ensure the resumption of normalcy for the people and businesses affected by this protracted dispute
