ISLAMABAD: In a groundbreaking development, Pakistan and China have jointly decided to transform the Khunjerab border, their sole land route, into an all-weather passage for trade, marking a significant leap in bilateral relations.
Previously, the Khunjerab Pass closed for four months each year due to harsh weather conditions, from December to April. However, to enhance bilateral trade, the two nations have resolved to keep the route operational even during the challenging winter season, when the mountainous region is mostly snow-covered.
Authorities on both sides of the border have swiftly initiated essential preparations to facilitate this momentous decision. The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, representing Pakistan’s side, has been entrusted with the task of implementing the necessary arrangements to make the route accessible throughout the year.
Captain (R) Syed Ali Asghar, the Secretary Interior of Gilgit-Baltistan, chaired a high-level meeting where he directed all relevant authorities to ensure complete arrangements for keeping the Khunjerab Border open year-round for trade and tourism purposes. This decision is anticipated to create a surge of economic opportunities and alleviate challenges faced by local traders.
The meeting, attended by key officials including Commissioner Gilgit Division Kamal Ladak, DIG Special Branch, Commander FWBL, Deputy Commissioner, Additional Collector Customs, Deputy Director FIA, and Deputy Director NHA, emphasized the positive impact of sustaining year-round trade activities at the Khunjerab Border. Secretary Interior underscored the benefits this move would bring to the local economy and traders’ livelihoods.
“Keeping the Khunjerab Border open throughout the year for bilateral trade between China and Pakistan will not only boost economic activities but also lead to positive effects on our economy. Local businesses will benefit, and it will ease the challenges faced by our traders,” Secretary Interior stated.
To ensure the effective implementation of this decision, Secretary Interior issued immediate directives to all relevant authorities, urging them to finalize practical arrangements for maintaining a functional Khunjerab Border and the Sost Dry Port round the clock. This proactive step is expected to create a conducive environment for trade and tourism, fostering economic growth in the region.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, during an event at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing last month, had announced the conversion of the Khunjerab Pass into an all-weather border. The pass, situated at an elevation of more than 15,000 feet above sea level, connects Gilgit-Baltistan with China’s Xinjiang region. Prime Minister Kakar expressed the intent to upgrade customs and other logistic services, facilitating seamless trade and movement of people.
He emphasized the importance of deepening trade, connectivity, and cultural ties between Xinjiang and neighbouring regions of Pakistan. Furthermore, he underscored Xinjiang’s significance as the starting point of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has pledged over $65 billion for road, rail, and other infrastructure developments in Pakistan.
As per the officials this historic decision is set to strengthen the economic collaboration between Pakistan and China, benefiting both nations and the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, and stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two countries.
