Political Parties and Civil Society Express Concern Over Deteriorating Relations with Afghanistan

Opposition political parties and several members of civil society in tribal areas have expressed concerns over the worsening relations with Afghanistan, emphasizing that the continuation of this situation will have serious negative consequences for residents on both sides of the border.

Participants of this public meeting called for the immediate start of talks among relevant parties to facilitate the reopening of border crossings and the resumption of trade with Afghanistan; a move they say plays a crucial role in improving livelihoods and reducing tensions in border areas.

In the joint 13-point declaration released at the end of the meeting, full implementation of all proposals made by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial assembly was stressed. The signatories stated that ignoring these proposals would not only exacerbate the economic crisis in the tribal regions but also widen the gap between the people and decision-makers.

They also called for a more responsible approach towards Afghanistan and constructive engagement with the Taliban administration, emphasizing that the closure of border crossings and suspension of trade hurts ordinary people and traders the most.