Gandapur says KP govt waiting for ToRs’ approval from Centre

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Sunday said his government had formed a jirga to initiate negotiations with the Afghan government.

He, however, said the jirga was awaiting approval for its Terms of Reference (ToRs) from the federal government, after which the jirga would visit Afghanistan to initiate a dialogue.

An official handout said that he made these remarks during his meeting with Afghan Consul General Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir, who called on the chief minister.

Gandapur said efforts were underway to establish special facilitation desks at the border for individuals traveling for trade, education, and medical treatment.

He said that Afghan citizens with valid travel documents would be welcomed.

Gandapur noted that discussions were ongoing with relevant international organizations to issue health and education cards for Afghan nationals seeking medical treatment and education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He said the closure of the Pak-Afghan border was causing hardships to traders and transporters.

The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, including the promotion of bilateral trade, regional peace and stability and issues faced by Afghan citizens residing in the province.

During the discussion, the closure of Pak-Afghan border at Torkham and its impact on traders and the general public on both sides was highlighted. Both sides agreed to make efforts to reopen the border as soon as possible.

The chief minister said that closure of the border was not in the best interest of the people on either side, as it affected not only businesses but also ordinary citizens. He underscored the urgent need to reopen the border at the earliest. He said the provincial government was making every possible effort and urged the Afghan Consulate to play its role as well.

The chief minister stated that ongoing instability in the region had caused difficulties for people on both sides of the border, and dialogue remained an effective means to achieve lasting peace.