Pakistan opens border checkpoint for repatriation of Afghan nationals

Pakistan has officially initiated the repatriation of Afghan citizens residing illegally within its borders, reopening the Torkham crossing on November 1 after weeks of closure.

According to official sources, hundreds of Afghan nationals arrived at the immigration point to return to their home country. The repatriation process, which is taking place in Khyber, follows a government decision to use the Torkham border specifically for the operation, Caliber.Az reporrts per Samaa. 

Authorities clarified that the reopening is limited solely to repatriation efforts. Trade and pedestrian traffic at the crossing remain suspended. The Torkham border had been closed for all traffic since October 11, amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, the Chaman crossing, another key trade and transit point between the two nations, remains shut for the 21st consecutive day, according to officials. The prolonged closures have disrupted bilateral trade and cross-border movement, adding pressure to already strained economic and humanitarian relations.

By Sabina Mammadli