Afghan Delegation Cancels Jirga On Torkham Border Reopening Over Participant Dispute

The second round of talks between Pakistani and Afghan tribal elders and traders aimed at reopening the Torkham border crossing was cancelled on Wednesday.

Afghan representatives called off the meeting after Pakistani side increased the number of its participants at the last minute.

Haji Gul Murad Arab, a member of the jirga, told Afghanistan International that 26 Pakistani traders and tribal elders were initially expected to attend. However, just hours before the meeting, Pakistan submitted a list of 60 participants.

According to Arab, the Afghan side insisted on negotiating only with traders and tribal elders and refused to engage with government officials or private individuals.

Sayed Jawad Hussain Kazemi, a Pakistani jirga member, also confirmed that Afghan representatives cancelled the meeting due to the increased number of participants. He stated that the Pakistani delegation would consult with officials to arrange another round of negotiations soon.

Earlier, tribal elders and traders from both sides had agreed to investigate a military post the Taliban planned to build near the border. Pakistan had previously stated that Torkham was closed due to the Taliban's attempt to construct a post on Pakistani soil.

During the first meeting, both sides agreed that if the disputed area was proven to be Pakistani territory, the Taliban would halt construction, allowing the border crossing to reopen.

Despite ongoing efforts and meetings, no final agreement has been reached to reopen the key trade and travel route. Torkham has remained closed for over two weeks, causing millions of dollars in losses for traders on both sides.