"Pakistani and Afghan Delegations Convene in Kabul to Discuss Trade and Transit Facilities"

Throughout the two-day discussions in Kabul, the delegations from both nations have reached a consensus to depoliticize trade and prioritize the welfare of the people.

In the negotiations, the delegations reached an accord to ensure continuous trade and transit connections, with a commitment to conclude the 'Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Agreement' within two months.

As part of the agreement, Pakistan will streamline the process of transferring goods from containers to regional containers at Karachi port.
In the preferential trade agreement between the Pakistani and Afghan delegations, a one-year temporary free permit for truck movement was additionally endorsed. This temporary permit agreement will be operational from May 2024.
Moreover, the agreement includes provisions for the transfer of goods via multi-modal air transit through Pakistani and Afghan airports. It was further decided to commence multi-modal air transit within the upcoming two months.
As per the agreement, Pakistan will eliminate the requirement for a bank guarantee within one week for goods in transit from Afghanistan, deeming the existing insurance as satisfactory.
Furthermore, the two delegations have concurred to collaboratively address additional hurdles through mutual consultation. Additionally, they have committed to abstain from border trade and to foster the establishment and enhancement of banking relations.
As per statements by Afghan spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, Pakistan has signaled its readiness to purchase coal at international market prices.
The Pakistani delegation participating in the negotiations was led by Deputy Minister of Commerce Muhammad Khurram Agha, while the Afghan delegation was under the leadership of Acting Minister of Commerce Nuruddin Azizi.