Pak-Iran Border Crossings to remain open 24/7

Pakistani Ambassador to Iran Muhammad Mudassir Tipu announced the decision to keep the Pak-Iran Border crossings at Taftan and Gabd operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This decision aims to facilitate uninterrupted trade and commerce between the two neighboring nations, fostering a climate of economic growth and opportunity.

Ambassador Tipu hailed the decision as a major stride forward, emphasizing its potential to substantially increase the flow of goods across the border. The move is expected to create new avenues for economic collaboration, opening doors for enhanced trade relations and mutual prosperity.

The decision to keep the Pak-Iran Bordercrossings open round the clock comes in the wake of renewed emphasis on energy cooperation and trade between Pakistan and Iran. Despite external pressures, both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, as evidenced during the recent visit of Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi to Pakistan.

During President Raisi’s visit, the two nations reiterated their commitment to transforming the shared border from a ‘border of peace’ to a ‘border of prosperity.’ Discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in the energy sector, including electricity trade and the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project.

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A joint statement issued by the Foreign Office highlighted the shared vision for long-term economic partnership and regional connectivity, particularly focusing on socio-economic development in Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan and Pakistan’s Balochistan provinces.

Both countries underscored the importance of finalizing the free trade agreement (FTA) and setting a target of boosting bilateral trade to $10 billion over the next five years through collaborative initiatives. Measures such as establishing joint border markets, economic free zones, and new border openings were also discussed to facilitate smoother trade operations.

Additionally, there was consensus on fully operationalizing barter trade mechanisms to streamline economic activities, especially in border sustenance markets. Efforts to enhance connectivity, including the regular shipment of goods under the TIR Convention, were also emphasized to ensure efficient and barrier-free trade.