Pakistan has allowed transit trade and import from Afghanistan from Chaman and Torkham border terminals besides opening of Ghulam Khan terminal for bilateral trade from today (Monday).

"In view of strong fraternal ties and due to renewed Afghan Government’s request, it has been decided that with effect from 22 June 2020, the third border terminal at Ghulam Khan will be opened for bilateral trade and to allow transit trade and import from Afghanistan through Torkham and Chaman border terminals as well," the Foreign Office said in a statement.

This arrangement on trade will be in operation 6 days a week. Saturdays will be reserved for pedestrian movement on these border crossing terminals. These steps are being taken after implementing all necessary protocols related to COVID-19 pandemic, said FO.

"The opening of Ghulam Khan border crossing terminal and allowing imports from Afghanistan reflects Pakistan’s resolve to help Afghanistan and facilitate its trade," the statement read.

Pakistan is a major trading partner of Afghanistan and the largest market for Afghan exports. The opening of Gwadar Port for Afghanistan’s export and import has further strengthened trade linkages between the two countries.

Furthermore, the Pak-Afghan Torkham border closed due to coronavirus reopened for commercial activities after 3 months. According to border officials, imports have been restored three months after the opening of the Torkham border, with dozens of vehicles entering on both sides of the border.