نگرانی‌ها از مسدود ماندن گذرگاه‌ها با پاکستان

As the closure of shared crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan enters its eighth day, around 2,000 freight trucks remain stranded, inflicting millions of Afghanis in losses on Afghan traders.

Currently, five key crossings, Torkham, Angoor Adda, Dand-e-Patan, Ghulam Khan, and Chaman, remain closed to commercial trade.

Naqibullah Safi, Executive Director of the Afghanistan–Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, said: “Afghanistan has also incurred losses because hundreds of trucks carrying fresh fruits, vegetables, and other export goods are stranded at the crossing.”

Azarkhash Hafizi, former head of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, added: “According to the principles of regional cooperation and integration, trade routes should remain open. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan are members of the World Trade Organization, and the convention clearly states that no country has the right to block public trade routes for another.”

In addition to the crossing closures, trade via the Port of Karachi has also been halted. Afghan traders note that Karachi is the closest and most cost-effective transit route for Afghanistan, but political disputes periodically disrupt operations there.

Zalmai Azimi, a trader, stated: “Afghan merchants import goods through Karachi Port, which is a close and low-cost transportation route. Due to the recent tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, nearly 7,500 containers are now stuck at Karachi Port.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Economy, criticizing the politicization of trade relations between Afghanistan and neighboring countries, emphasized that economic and commercial interests should not be sacrificed for political tensions.

Abdul Latif Nazari, Deputy Minister of Economy, said: “The closure of trade routes by some neighboring countries and the continuation of this trend contradicts international trade regulations. We urge our neighbors to separate political issues from economic and commercial matters. Expanding trade benefits both Afghanistan and its neighbors. The Islamic Emirate’s policy is dialogue and engagement to overcome challenges.”

Pakistan is Afghanistan’s top export destination. However, periodic tensions and political decisions continue to disrupt the flow of trade between the two countries.