The abrupt closure of the Torkham border crossing on 21 February 2025 sent shockwaves across both Pakistan and Afghanistan. This crucial trade and transit point, which facilitates the movement of thousands of people and millions of dollars in trade daily, was shut down following a dispute over construction activities on both sides. The month-long impasse resulted in economic losses, humanitarian hardships, and heightened tensions between the two neighbours. However, after sustained negotiations, the reopening of the border on Wednesday 19 March signals not only a temporary resolution but also highlights the importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation.
The closure stemmed from disagreements over construction activities. Pakistani and Afghan border officials found themselves embroiled in a dispute regarding the renovation of a security post on the Afghan side and the placement of a signboard on the Pakistani side. Both governments had previously agreed to inform and consult each other on any changes to the border infrastructure, a protocol that was evidently not followed. Tensions escalated, leading to a complete shutdown of customs and immigration offices, leaving trade and cross-border movement at a standstill.
The situation worsened on 3 March, when an exchange of fire between Afghan Taliban fighters and Pakistani security forces resulted in the death of an Afghan border guard and injuries to others. With failed initial talks and mounting pressure from traders, transporters, and local populations, both governments had no choice but to seek a negotiated settlement through diplomatic and tribal mechanisms.
The economic impact of the border shutdown was substantial. Officials estimate a loss of $72 million in trade revenue due to the month-long closure. The Torkham crossing serves as a vital commercial link between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with hundreds of trucks carrying essential goods such as food, medicines, and fuel. The suspension of trade led to daily losses of $500,000 for Afghan traders and also a financial strain on Pakistani exporters.
Future border agreements must include contingency plans to guarantee the movement of essential goods and emergency medical cases, even in times of political strain.
Beyond economic costs, the closure severely impacted thousands of families who rely on cross-border movement. On an average day, 10,000 people cross the Torkham border, many of whom require urgent medical treatment in Pakistan. The closure also created logistical nightmares for businesses, disrupted supply chains, and left transporters stranded for weeks, causing perishable goods to go to waste.
Recognising the urgency of reopening the border, both sides turned to traditional jirga diplomacy. A 57-member Pakistani delegation, comprising tribal elders, traders, and local government representatives, engaged in negotiations with an Afghan jirga made up of members of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The first round of talks on 9 March saw Pakistani officials relay Islamabad’s stance on halting unauthorised construction and upholding previous agreements.
However, miscommunication led to the postponement of the second round of talks scheduled for 12 March, frustrating Pakistani negotiators. Security officials, concerned about inconsistent messaging, decided to downsize the Pakistani jirga to include only key stakeholders with an in-depth understanding of the border dispute.
The decisive breakthrough came on 17 March, when both sides met in Torkham. A Pakistani delegation of 36 members comprising clerics, tribal leaders, and business representatives met with a 25-member Afghan delegation. Led by Pakistan’s Syed Jawad Hussain Kazmi, the meeting resulted in a clear commitment to halt illegal construction and adhere to prior agreements. The jirga mechanism, though slow, ultimately proved successful in de-escalating tensions and ensuring a diplomatic resolution to the impasse.
On 19 March, the Torkham border reopened with a brief ceremony, symbolising the resumption of trade and travel. Delegates from both countries met at zero point to mark the occasion, with transporters and traders eagerly awaiting clearance to move their goods. The reopening was especially significant given the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holiday, allowing thousands of families to reunite. The first order of business was facilitating the movement of stranded vehicles, followed by the prioritisation of medical emergencies, a stark reminder of the human cost of the closure. By evening, trade had resumed, with trucks loaded with coal entering Pakistan and cement shipments moving into Afghanistan. The pedestrian movement will begin on 21 March. The agreement reached includes a mutual commitment to consult on any future construction and maintain open communication between security forces to avoid similar disputes.
The closure of the Torkham border underscores the fragility of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and the urgent need for a structured, long-term conflict resolution mechanism. While the jirga system played a crucial role in ending this standoff, it cannot replace formal diplomatic engagement. A permanent border management committee is essential to oversee security coordination, trade facilitation, and infrastructure development, ensuring that political disputes do not repeatedly disrupt cross-border movement.
Frequent shutdowns not only stall trade but also erode trust between business communities, exacerbating economic instability on both sides. Establishing clear protocols for dispute resolution, enhancing customs cooperation, and leveraging regional trade frameworks can help prevent future crises. Moreover, humanitarian considerations must remain a priority. This month-long closure left thousands without access to medical care, education, and employment. Future border agreements must include contingency plans to guarantee the movement of essential goods and emergency medical cases, even in times of political strain.
The reopening of Torkham offers a moment of relief, especially with Eid approaching and trade resuming. However, unless structural reforms are implemented to prevent future closures, this victory may be short-lived. Pakistan and Afghanistan must prioritise a stable border policy that fosters economic integration and trust, ensuring that Torkham remains a bridge between two interdependent nations, not a recurring crisis flashpoint.
