By The South Asia Times

PESHAWAR - A key border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened after 25 days following successful negotiation between the security officials of two countries.

The Torkham border has been reopened as trade activities resumed while pedestrian will be allowed from Friday onward, Geo News reported.

 Trucks, that stucks at the borders, have started entering Afghanistan, restoring bilateral trade that had been severely disrupted.

The closure, which began on February 21, was triggered by tensions over the construction of a bunker by Afghan forces near Zero-Point, prompting a strong response from Pakistan’s Frontier Corps (FC). The resulting clashes led to a halt in trade and travel, causing significant economic losses and humanitarian challenges for Afghanistan, which heavily depends on imports from Pakistan.

Syed Jawad Hussain Kazmi, head of the Pakistani tribal jirga, stated that Afghan officials have agreed to remove the disputed construction, which had fueled the standoff, according to the broadcaster.

He added that a ceasefire will remain in place until the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) convenes, ensuring regional stability.

Pakistani security officials have expressed satisfaction with Afghanistan’s decision, easing immediate concerns over further escalation.

Economic and Humanitarian Impact

The prolonged closure left the crossing congested with truckloads of supplies destined for Afghanistan, which is grappling with a humanitarian and hunger crisis. Trade between the two countries was valued at over $1.6 billion in 2024, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Office.

Customs officials estimate that the Torkham border facilitates daily trade worth approximately $3 million and sees the movement of nearly 10,000 people daily. The reopening is expected to restore economic activity and ease travel for thousands of traders and citizens dependent on this crucial border route.

Security Concerns and Terrorism Threat

Despite the breakthrough, terrorism remains a major concern for Pakistan. Islamabad has repeatedly urged Afghanistan to prevent its territory from being used by militant groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to launch attacks.

Pakistan’s concerns were reinforced by a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) report, which highlighted a nexus between Kabul and the TTP, accusing the Afghan authorities of providing logistical, operational, and financial support to the group.

While the reopening of Torkham is a significant diplomatic development, long-term stability along the 2,500-kilometer porous border will depend on sustained dialogue, security cooperation, and mutual commitments to counterterrorism efforts.