Border trade with Iran remains unaffected as tensions persist
Published on: January 21, 2024.
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Trade activities between Pakistan and Iran remain unaffected despite recent tensions between the two countries. Despite airspace violations and retaliatory strikes, both sides have kept their crossing points open, allowing trade to continue. This development has been confirmed by officials who have stated that border towns such as Taftan, Gwadar, Kech, Panjgur, and Washuk are still engaged in trade activities.
Makran Commissioner Saeed Ahmed Umrani has assured that there have been no complaints about border closures from the five districts that border Iran. Additionally, Pakistan Customs authorities in Taftan have reported that their offices on the Taftan border are open and trade activities are proceeding as usual.
In recent days, over 100 trucks carrying rice, potatoes, and other goods from Pakistan have crossed the Taftan border into Iran. On the other hand, Pakistani authorities have received liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other petroleum products from Iran.
Despite the tensions, trade activities have also been taking place through the Chidgi border between Pakistan and Iran. The deputy commissioner of Panjgur, Mumtaz Khetran, has confirmed that trade continues at this border.
It is worth noting that Pakistan had recalled its 34-member delegation from Chahbahar following the Iranian strikes in the Panjgur area of Balochistan. The delegation, which included former Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Fida Hussain Dashti, had arrived in Chahbahar before the Iranian attack. However, they were not welcomed by Iranian officials as they had been during previous visits.
Five members of the delegation, including QCCI President Abdullah Achakzai, were initially denied entry into Iran by Iranian border authorities. They claimed that Iranian intelligence agencies had issued negative reports about these individuals. However, after protests from the other delegates and their refusal to attend the joint border committee meeting, the five members were allowed to enter Iran.
Due to the strikes and the ensuing protests, the planned signing of MoUs during the meeting could not take place, and the Pakistani delegation promptly returned in protest.
Overall, despite tensions and airspace violations, the trade between Pakistan and Iran remains robust, with both countries keeping their borders open. This situation has allowed trade activities to continue smoothly, benefiting both nations.
Source: [Dawn](https://www.dawn.com)
