The national jirgas of Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to a ceasefire and the reopening of the Torkham border during a joint meeting held on Monday. The decision came after weeks of clashes over border disputes, with both sides committing to respect the ceasefire and work towards maintaining peace.
During the meeting, the Afghan delegation requested time until evening to halt construction work in disputed areas, to which the Pakistani side agreed. Both parties also decided to temporarily suspend construction activities and engage in further consultations. The head of the Pakistani jirga, Syed Jawad Hussain Kazmi, described the meeting as a “significant step towards reducing tensions.”
The agreement was reached after weeks of skirmishes along the border. Both countries have also agreed to keep trade routes open, while the issue will be further discussed in the upcoming Joint Chamber of Commerce meeting.
The Pakistani delegation included national elders, representatives from the Khyber Chamber of Commerce, Torkham Customs Clearing Agents, religious scholars, and other prominent figures. The delegation attended the meeting on the Afghan side of the Torkham border. Following the meeting, Shah Khalid Shinwari, Chairman of the Landi Kotal Tehsil, issued a statement emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue.
The Afghan jirga has promised to provide a positive response by evening after consulting with relevant authorities. This agreement is being seen as a crucial step towards peace and stability between the two neighboring countries.
Also read: Tensions ease at Pak-Afghan Torkham border as Jirga concludes first session
