Kabul: The Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan reported on Saturday (Jan 13) that Pakistan had effectively closed a crucial northwestern border crossing for truck drivers, signaling a shift in document requirements. Noor Mohammad Hanif, the director of the information and culture department in Nangarhar province, revealed that officials at the Torkham crossing had started demanding passports and visas from Afghan truck drivers.
In response, Kabul reciprocated by now requesting Pakistani drivers to present passports and visas. The Nangarhar governor’s office issued a separate statement, indicating ongoing talks between officials from both sides to resolve the matter, with a decision expected soon.
The Torkham border crossing has experienced multiple closures in recent months, including a nine-day shutdown in September 2023 due to clashes between border forces. On Saturday, dozens of trucks carrying perishable items, such as vegetables and fruits, were stranded on each side of the border, awaiting the reopening of the crossing.
Ongoing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan encompass various issues. Islamabad has voiced concerns about the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban-e-Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan, a group responsible for numerous attacks on Pakistani soil. Pakistan claims that many TTP leaders and fighters have sought refuge in Afghanistan, emboldening them to launch further attacks on Pakistani security forces.
Despite the Afghan Taliban government’s insistence that it does not permit the TTP to use its soil for attacks in Pakistan, tensions persist. Additionally, friction arises from Pakistan’s continued expulsion of Afghans, with over half a million deported in recent months due to lacking valid papers.
