During a meeting with traders in Logar province, Stanikzai addressed the repercussions of shutting down trade and transit passages to Pakistan, highlighting the interdependence of both nations. He pointed out Afghanistan's crucial role as a conduit for Pakistan's access to Central Asia. Stanikzai expressed a desire to avoid causing disruptions for Pakistan, underscoring the importance of keeping borders open to facilitate the transit of Afghan fruits and vegetables to markets in Pakistan and beyond, including India.
The discussion marks the first instance Kabul has hinted at potentially closing Pakistan's transit route to Central Asia as a countermeasure to Islamabad's trading constraints. The ongoing trade route closures, heightened customs tariffs by Pakistan, and disregard for trade agreements have culminated in a 10% decrease in Afghan exports to Pakistan within the year's initial five months.
In a parallel development, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the Political Deputy of the Taliban's Prime Minister, called on India to address visa challenges facing Afghan traders, especially those exporting dry fruits, to bolster bilateral trade. Kabir advocated for the elimination of trade and transit hindrances to foster Afghanistan's economic stability, thereby enhancing the trading environment and benefiting numerous Afghans.
Source: The Khaama Press