The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has once again made it clear that trade and transit routes with Pakistan will remain closed until Islamabad provides firm, transparent, and binding guarantees that these routes will never again be used as a tool of political or economic pressure.
Kabul 24: Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Islamic Emirate, stated on Thursday that Pakistan’s unilateral and illegal closure of border crossings in recent months not only paralyzed legitimate bilateral trade but also inflicted severe financial and livelihood losses on ordinary citizens of both countries.Mujahid said:
“The Islamic Emirate, out of respect for the blood of our martyrs and the dignity of the Afghan nation, will no longer accept that vital trade and transit corridors be turned into leverage for political pressure by a neighboring country.
Today, we are fully capable of meeting our essential needs – including fuel, food, and industrial goods – through multiple alternative routes, including Iran, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and even air corridors.
Therefore, we have made the reopening of trade borders with Pakistan strictly conditional on receiving strong and credible assurances from the Pakistani government.”According to the spokesman, these guarantees must include: A written and official commitment never to close the crossings again for political reasons
Compensation for losses suffered by Afghan traders during the closure period
Establishment of a joint mechanism to monitor compliance with mutual commitments
Full respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and the dignity of its people in all bilateral dealings
Mujahid stressed that the purpose of this firm stance is not to escalate tensions, but to ensure long-term stability of transit routes, protect traders’ rights, prevent harm to ordinary citizens on both sides, and promote dignified and sustainable trade.He concluded:
“Any step toward normalizing commercial relations must be taken in an atmosphere of mutual respect, equality, and lasting cooperation. The Islamic Emirate is ready to reopen the routes without delay as soon as credible and practical guarantees are received.
Otherwise, we will vigorously pursue the development of alternative routes.”This official position comes amid reports in recent weeks of behind-the-scenes talks between delegations from both countries, though Pakistan has so far reportedly refused to provide written and binding guarantees.
