KARACHI: Pak-Afghan Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) has decided to resolve issues faced by the traders and the people living at the edges of the both countries, besides curbing smuggling.
According to the source, in the meeting of Pakistan and Afghanistan authorities, the traders, importers and exporters were also present. During the meeting, the transporters of both the countries convinced the authorities for visa exemptions to cross the Torkham border carrying transit trade goods as well as other goods vehicles.
Pak-Afghan Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) discussed issues related to border management, illegal crossing of the people, countering smuggling and terrorism including smooth flow of Pakistan and Afghanistan Transit Trade even in crucial situation.
The members of Pakistan and Afghanistan in the meeting agreed the new border management system, only people with valid travel documents will be allowed to cross the border.
The Pakistani delegation also gave detailed briefing on the installation of Closed-circuit television cameras, baggage and vehicle scanners and other security equipment are being installed, in addition to fencing for preventing unauthorized crossings.
The officials from Federal Agencies, including Customs, FIA and NADRA will also be present on the crossing point to fulfill the requirements of the people, traders and transit trade vehicles to avoid any mishap.
Pakistani delegation during the meeting underlined that the relationship with Afghanistan was one of the most pivotal relationships for Pakistan’s national security and foreign policy and it was imperative that the channels of communication be kept open with Afghanistan at all levels.
Pakistan and Afghanistan authorities agreed to restrict the incident that halts transit trade that not only worsen the relations of both countries but also stops the activities at the borders causing problems to the traders and the people living at the border areas.