KANDAHAR CITY (SW): The 22-day-closure of Spin Boldak – Chaman crossing point between Afghanistan and Pakistan has inflicted financial losses worth millions of dollars.
Abdul Baqi, vice president of the Kandahar Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI), told Salam Watandar Pakistani traders sustained some 80 percent of an estimated $ 22 million losses while the rest of 20 percent loss has been sustained by the Afghan traders. He added it is high time for Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan and beyond hence Islamabad has borne the brunt of the closure.
Last week, the Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PAJCCI), reflected grave concern over the closure that is critically affecting traders on both the sides, in terms of immense financial losses and trust deficit. In a recent press conference in Afghanistan, Khan Jan Alokozai, vice president of the PAJCCI, expressed fears that due to frequent closures transit route of Pakistan may not remain a potential choice for Afghan businesses which will also significantly affect the bilateral ties between the two countries not only economically and politically but also in terms of social connectivity.
Haji Nanay, a fresh fruit exporter, told Salam Watandar Pakistan has always taken political advantage of the border crossings. He stressed traders like him cannot afford closure for even an hour. He urged Kabul and Islamabad to keep politics and trade apart.
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