Pakistan Facilitating Cross Border Movement Of Afghan Brethren – OpEd
The Pak-Afghan border is a 2,400-kilometer-long frontier that separates Pakistan and Afghanistan. The border has been a site of ongoing conflict and instability due to various factors, including political tensions, cross-border terrorism, and drug trafficking.
In recent years, the situation at the Pak-Afghan border has become increasingly volatile due to withdrawal of US-led foreign troops from Afghanistan and the subsequent resurgence of the Taliban. The Taliban has gained control of many parts of Afghanistan, leading to an influx of Afghan refugees into Pakistan. The Pakistani government has struggled to manage the influx of refugees, which has put a strain on resources and increased security concerns.
It is not uncommon for media outlets in different countries to have different perspectives on certain events, including incidents at border crossings. It is important to verify the information and sources of any news reports before drawing conclusions or making judgments. It is also important to acknowledge that the situation at the Pak-Afghan border is complex and multi-faceted, with many factors contributing to tensions and conflicts. While there may be isolated incidents of mistreatment of Afghans by Pakistani authorities, it is also possible that some media outlets may be selectively highlighting these incidents to create a negative image of Pakistan. In any case, it is crucial for all countries and stakeholders involved in the situation at the Pak-Afghan border to work towards constructive and peaceful solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals involved, regardless of their nationality or ethnicity.
It is important to promote a positive image of Pakistan’s efforts in border management and dispel any false impressions that may have been created. Pakistan has been actively working to enhance border security and manage the influx of refugees from Afghanistan in a humane and responsible manner. Pakistani government has taken steps to improve the infrastructure and facilities at border crossings, including the construction of new border posts and the deployment of additional security personnel. Moreover, Pakistan has been working closely with Afghanistan and other international partners to enhance cross-border cooperation and communication, and to address common challenges such as terrorism and drug trafficking.
It is also important to acknowledge the significant contributions that Pakistan has made towards promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan over the years, including hosting millions of Afghan refugees and supporting Afghan-led reconciliation efforts. These efforts have not only benefited Afghanistan but have also helped promote regional security and stability. By highlighting these positive efforts and achievements, Pakistan can counter any false or negative impressions that may have been created and contribute to a more constructive and cooperative approach to managing the situation at the Pak-Afghan border.
The Pak-Afghan border is one of the busiest and most porous borders in the world, with several crossing points spread along the 2,400-kilometer-long frontier. The movement of people and goods across the border is essential for trade, commerce, and the livelihoods of many individuals on both sides of the border. However, the ongoing conflict and instability in Afghanistan, particularly the resurgence of the Taliban, have significantly impacted the movement of people and goods across the border. There have been reports of increased security measures and restrictions on the movement of people and goods at some of the crossing points, particularly in areas where there have been security concerns or clashes with militants.
Moreover, the influx of Afghan refugees into Pakistan has put a strain on resources and infrastructure, particularly at the border crossings. The Pakistani government has been working to manage the situation by setting up new refugee camps, providing basic amenities and services, and enhancing security measures to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. The quantum of movement at the Pak-Afghan crossing points is likely to fluctuate depending on the security situation and other factors, including the availability of resources and infrastructure on both sides of the border. However, it is important to ensure that movement across the border is facilitated in a safe, secure, and humane manner that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals involved.
Pakistan currently has five crossing points (CPs) operational with Afghanistan, which include Chaman, Torkhum, Kharlachi, Ghulam Khan and Angoor Ada. Monthly movement at Pak-Afghan crossing points stands at approximately 3, 85,000 passengers in addition to hundreds of trade convoys. Despite less resources and strength, Pakistan is manning over 100 counters at the crossing points to ensure smooth processing of a heavy inflow of cross-border movement. No other bordering country has such an exodus at their border crossings.
Though Pakistan has Integrated Border Management System (IBMS) in place at main crossings, which supports One Document Regime (valid visa/ passport). However, to facilitate their Afghan brethren, Pakistan also allows a large no of Afghans especially patients, journalists, women and traders to cross the border on Tazkera (non-valid) document on humanitarian grounds. Exclusive counters at crossing points have been operational for Afghan patients and women only. Afghans entering into Pakistan either on valid or invalid documents are allowed to extend/ renew their status to stay in Pakistan. Border crossing for Afghan brethren even without passport to earn a livelihood, or to visit a relative, address any medical emergency or get education is an exclusive offer extended by Pakistan, which no other neighbor offers. As per official data, due to insufficient documents / no documents about 5-6 thousands Afghan nationals are refused entry every month for obvious reasons. A few among those refused Afghans falsely create nuisance about mistreatment by Pakistani authorities at border crossing points.
Pakistani government has been working to enhance border management and facilitate safe and secure movement across the border, particularly in light of the influx of Afghan refugees and the security challenges posed by the conflict in Afghanistan. Some of the steps taken by Pakistan to improve the situation at the Pak-Afghan crossing points include:
Enhancing infrastructure and facilities: Pakistan has invested in improving the infrastructure and facilities at the crossing points, including the construction of new border posts, the installation of scanners and other equipment for security screening, and the provision of basic amenities for travelers and refugees.
Deployment of additional security personnel: Pakistan has increased the deployment of security personnel at the crossing points to ensure the safety and security of individuals crossing the border. This includes both regular security forces and paramilitary personnel.
Introduction of new technology: Pakistan has introduced new technology and systems to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of border management, such as biometric screening and tracking systems.
Coordination and cooperation with Afghan authorities: Pakistan has been working closely with Afghan authorities to enhance cross-border cooperation and communication, and to address common challenges such as terrorism and drug trafficking.
Provision of humanitarian assistance: Pakistan has been providing humanitarian assistance to Afghan refugees, including the provision of food, shelter, and medical care. The Pakistani government has set up new refugee camps and enhanced the capacity of existing camps to manage the influx of refugees. These steps have helped to improve the situation at the Pak-Afghan crossing points, but the situation remains complex and challenging. It is crucial for all stakeholders to continue working together to address the security, humanitarian, and logistical challenges posed by the situation at the border.
The writer is Islamabad based expert of strategic affairs
