Diplomatic sources have revealed that Pakistan and Afghanistan have reached an agreement in principle to reopen their shared borders soon, following the recent tensions that led to the nine-day closure. If no further conflict arises, the crossing is expected to reopen in the next 24 to 48 hours.
Empty trucks, which were stuck at the Chaman-Spin Boldak border for several days, have already started entering Pakistan, while vehicles carrying Afghan citizens are returning to Afghanistan. Customs personnel have been directed to immediately report to the Torkham terminal, where scanners have been installed to expedite cargo clearance.
Sources said that preparations for reopening the Torkham border under the recent ceasefire agreement between the two countries are almost complete. Commercial and pedestrian movement remains suspended in places including Ghulam Khan and Angoor Adda, with hundreds of trucks loaded with fruits and vegetables stranded on both sides.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had earlier stressed that Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to work closely to eliminate terrorism from the region. He said that both countries understand the threat terrorism poses to regional peace and have agreed to take joint action.
In an interview with Arab News, Asif noted that the new understanding was reached through mediation by Qatar and Turkey, thanking the diplomatic efforts of both countries. He said the main objective of the peace agreement is to eliminate terrorism from the border areas that have long been militancy-ridden.
Meanwhile, China and Saudi Arabia welcomed the ceasefire, calling it a positive step towards reducing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. China also expressed its willingness to play a constructive role in improving bilateral relations and promoting stability in the region.
According to official sources, Pakistani and Afghan delegations are scheduled to meet again in Istanbul on October 25 to review progress on recent agreements.
