Pakistan to re-open Iran border tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to re-open four border points with Iran from Sunday, 5th July for trade purposes.

A notification issued by Ministry of Interior said that crossings at Gabd, Mand, Katagar and Chedgi will be opened. The decision was taken after a meeting of the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) which reviews the coronavirus situation.

The borders will remain open seven days a week from morning to evening only for trade as per mutually agreed understanding between both countries. The trucks will be allowed after ensuring all COVID-19 related Standard Operating Procedures and protocols.

On Friday, Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan has urged to find a permanent solution to end closure of Chaman border with Afghanistan.

The chief minister chaired a high-level meeting attended by officials of the Balochistan home department and other senior officers to discuss the issue. They also discussed matters related to Afghan transit trade and smuggling of goods.

CM Balochistan was briefed that approximately 12,000 to 15,000 people were using the border crossing, whereas 90 percent of products sent to Afghanistan were brought to Pakistan without paying duties.

The chief minister said that he will hold meeting Prime Minister Imran Khan to discuss the issue of Chaman border closure.

It is decided that a committee will be formed comprising of representatives of political parties of the area which will hold meetings with local traders and people registered for the financial package.

The second committee will work under the supervision of the provincial chief secretary and other members will include concerned officials of the administrative sub-committee.