Afghanistan Times
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By Farhad Naibkhel-KABUL: The Torkham crossing which links Afghanistan’s eastern province of Nangarhar to Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) was reopened for traffic after a five-day closure due to clashes between Afghan and Pakistani forces.
“After five days, Torkham gate was reopened for traffic today at around 8:00am,” said Nangarhar provincial spokesman Atullah Khogyani.
He said that passengers having Pakistani visas can pass the crossing point.
Both sides agreed for the reopening of the crossing, he added.
Clashes began Sunday between Afghan and Pakistani forces after Pakistan forces started to build a check post, which the Afghan authorities claim was inside Afghan soil. Three Afghan police and two children were killed in the three-day clash, while 17 police were injured.
Pakistani forces also sustain casualties in the incident.
“Productive meeting was held with relevant Pakistan leadership on Torkham issue and agreed on ceasefire,” said Afghan ambassador to islamabad Omar Zakhilwal.
Two days after ceasefire, the crossing was reopened for traffic.
Parliament members criticized the government for complicated policy regarding the issue.
Lawmakers urged the government to tackle the issue through political dialogue permanently.
It is pertained to mention that besides sustaining casualties, both side bear up financial loses. Many traders’ goods stopped at both sides due to clashes.
