by Mussawer Safi 26 June 2023
The economic and social growth of both countries relies on the free flow of goods and people over the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. However, given the recent Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, this movement also poses formidable obstacles and threats. Amir Khan Muttaqi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), and Obaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani, Charge d’Affaires of the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul, met on May 28 and formed this committee. The organization will strive to enhance visa procedures, border security, and humanitarian assistance for Afghan refugees in Pakistan and elsewhere.
Along the Pakistan-Afghan border, terrorism and militancy pose a substantial threat. Multiple armed groups on both sides of the frontier threaten the stability and peace of a region that has been a hotbed of insurgency and violence for decades. Pakistan has initiated fencing along its border with Afghanistan since 2017 to prevent terrorists and traffickers from accessing the country. This regulation has impeded the free movement of legal business, labor, and family members across international borders. Due to the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, concerns have also been raised about Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other anti-Pakistan breakaway organizations.
Another difficulty is the humanitarian crisis developed along the Pakistani and Afghan borders since the Taliban took control. Thousands of Afghans have attempted to flee the country via Torkham, Pakistan’s most famous border crossing. However, many have been delayed or prevented from entering due to Pakistani officials’ rigorous screening procedures. Moreover, since 2016, all Afghans have been required to have a valid passport and visa to enter Pakistan, which is difficult for many impoverished and illiterate Afghans to obtain under the current circumstances. Pakistan has housed millions of Afghan refugees for decades, straining its resources and causing social unrest.
Consequently, the Pak-Afghan border is a dynamic and complex sector that requires Pakistan and Afghanistan to collaborate continuously. The IEA foreign ministry’s announcement of a joint committee to facilitate the cross-border movement of persons and goods is auspicious. There are hazards and challenges associated with this transition that must be considered. Borders between nations should be friendly and collaborative bridges, not sites of contention, and both sides must collaborate to make this a reality.
Decades of tension and conflict have existed between Pakistan and Afghanistan due to their porous and lengthy border of 2,670 kilometers with five active crossings. Pakistan has taken numerous steps to manage its borders better and facilitate commerce and travel at its five operational border crossings, despite its need for more human resources. By signing such agreements, both parties can advance economically and socially.
Pakistan and the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) have recently constituted a joint task force to address border issues and enhance cooperation. This action demonstrates that the IEA is committed to sustaining a constructive dialogue with Pakistan to preserve the peace between the two countries. The task force’s work will intensify security and restrict the freedom of movement of terrorist organizations such as the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has been initiating attacks on Pakistan from Afghan territory.
Establishing the Spin Boldak-Chaman border trade route is also positive for the two countries’ economies. The new route is essential for the economic rehabilitation of both countries in the post-COVID-19 era, as it will increase bilateral trade and transit commerce. The commerce corridor will also result in increased employment opportunities and social interactions.
The cross-border cooperation agreement between the IEA and Pakistan acknowledges Islamabad’s ongoing need for more effective border control in Pakistan. Pakistan has erected checkpoints and a barrier along its frontier with Afghanistan, drastically reducing the country’s terrorist threat. The influx of refugees and illegal migrants is straining Pakistan’s economy and security, so the fence’s other purpose is to stem this flow. Pakistan expects the IEA to refrain from interfering with its territory and government.
The administration of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border is a delicate issue that requires frank communication and cooperation. The similarities between the two nations’ pasts, cultures, religions, and ethnicities can be utilized to mutual advantage. Peace and stability in the region are in the best interests of both nations and can be achieved through diplomatic negotiations. Pakistan has always been committed to assisting the IEA in establishing an Afghan-led and Afghan-representative government. In addition, Pakistan expects the IEA to honor its commitment to preventing terrorist organizations from using Pakistani territory to launch attacks against other nations.