Torkham: Tribal elders and traders from Pakistan met their Afghan counterparts at the Torkham border to hold discussions on peace and to resolve the ongoing border alignment dispute.
The Jirga meeting took place at a time when the border has remained closed for several weeks following clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces.
During a Jirga session, both sides openly discussed the controversial reconstruction and renovation of a border post on the Afghan side.
Members of the Pakistani delegation told media that they had full authority from the government and were well-informed about Pakistan's concerns, particularly regarding repeated violations of border infrastructure agreements by the Afghan side.
The Afghan delegation, after listening to Pakistan’s objections, requested time to consult their authorities before responding.
The Afghan representatives were informed that Pakistan fully adheres to all agreed protocols concerning border infrastructure. However, Afghan governments, on multiple occasions, have attempted to build security checkpoints near the Zero Point despite Pakistan's objections.
According to sources, the Pakistani delegation proposed that in order to keep the border open at all times, the Afghan side must provide a new guarantee that it will not unilaterally alter the border infrastructure and will observe a temporary ceasefire for one month.
During this period, members of the delegation would engage with the relevant government authorities on both sides to find a lasting solution to the issue. Additionally, they would work to convince the government to keep the border open permanently while separating security and political matters.
Sources confirmed that the talks held on Sunday strictly followed tribal traditions, where disputes are resolved through Jirga, a peaceful process of negotiations for dispute resolutions.
The Pakistani delegation made it clear that any violations would be met with a strong response. Meanwhile, Afghan delegates sought time to convey Pakistan’s message to authorities in Kabul and Jalalabad.
The Afghan delegation was informed that if the Afghan Taliban halted the reconstruction or renovation of their checkpoint, Pakistan would reopen the border and de-escalate tensions.
According to sources, this Jirga was arranged after a week of efforts, which included establishing contact with Afghan tribal elders. Additionally, Pakistani officials hosted an Iftar dinner with local security officials to finalize the Jirga's terms and conditions.
