Pakistan-Afghan jirgas agree on ceasefire, reopening of Torkham border
People stand next to parked trucks loaded with supplies at the Torkham border crossing following a clash between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Photo: Reuters
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A significant breakthrough occurred on Monday as Pakistani and Afghan jirgas reached a mutual agreement on a permanent ceasefire and the reopening of the Torkham border.
The discussions, which took place in a joint meeting, resulted in an understanding to temporarily halt controversial construction activities on the Afghan side of the border.
Syed Jawad Hussain Kazmi, leader of the Pakistani jirga, highlighted the importance of the meeting, calling it a turning point in defusing tensions between the two countries.
He confirmed that both sides have agreed to suspend the disputed construction by Afghan forces, pending further consultations with Afghan authorities.
The ongoing construction issue will be addressed in the next Joint Chamber of Commerce meeting, where a final decision on the matter will be made. In the meantime, trade routes through the Torkham border will remain open, ensuring uninterrupted cross-border commerce.
The exact date for the Joint Chamber's session will be determined through mutual consultation, marking an important next step in resolving the long-standing issue. This agreement follows weeks of heightened tensions and clashes near the border.
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