In a significant development, 27 Chinese containers loaded with advanced agricultural equipment have entered Pakistan through the Khunjerab Pass. This comes as part of a trial run, with the pass being temporarily opened throughout the year for cross-border trade.
The Ministry of Commerce, in a recent notification, revealed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had conveyed China’s willingness to initiate the second trial run for the year, allowing the transportation of essential goods and equipment.
The Khunjerab Pass, a vital border crossing between Pakistan and China, was closed by the Chinese government on November 30 last year for a four-month winter period. This decision, made a month after an initial agreement to keep the high-altitude road open year-round, posed challenges for cross-border trade.
The historic agreement, signed between the two nations in 1986, stipulates that the Khunjerab Pass remains open for trade and travel from April to November-end each year. However, discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar during the Third Belt and Road International Cooperation Summit Forum led to a mutual decision to operate the pass throughout the year.
In response to this commitment, Chinese authorities issued a notice, suggesting the need for both countries to amend and sign an agreement on border ports and management systems through diplomatic channels to keep the Khunjerab Pass open year-round.
Despite facing challenges, the pass was briefly opened from January 2 to 16 for the transportation of goods from China to Pakistan. During this period, three dozen Chinese containers carrying export items arrived at the Sost Dry Port.
On Saturday, 27 Chinese containers, loaded with agricultural equipment for Pakistan’s “Green Pakistan” initiative, crossed the Khunjerab Pass amid heavy snowfall. Despite challenges, including six inches of snow in the Koksil area, the Chinese drivers and containers entered Pakistan. However, they faced difficulties as the Pakistani side lacked facilities to promptly clear the road.
Efforts are underway to address these challenges, highlighting the collaborative nature of the trade relationship between Pakistan and China. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders anticipate a resolution that ensures the smooth flow of goods and strengthens bilateral ties in the realm of cross-border trade.
