Pakistan closes Friendship Gate with Afghanistan

Exchange of fire takes place as Afghan forces try to stop fencing


Mohammad Zafar October 15, 2018
PHOTO: ISPR

QUETTA: Pakistan on Sunday closed its Friendship Gate with Afghanistan in Chaman following a clash between security forces of both the countries over fencing along the bordering town of Sakan Kanarr.

The Pakistani border guards were busy in fencing when Afghan security forces tried to stop them, which resulted in an exchange of harsh words. Soon after, the dispute escalated into a battle as both forces exchanged fire. No casualties were reported.

Pakistan started fencing along the 2,400 kilometres Afghan border in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan to prevent terrorists and smugglers from entering the country.

Numerous rounds of negotiations between officials of both the countries failed to yield any positive result as Afghanistan opposes Pakistan’s move of fencing its border.

Following Sunday’s clash, the Pakistani officials closed the Friendship Gate at the Pak-Afghan border in Chaman, suspending all kinds of trade movements, including supply vehicles for NATO forces in Afghanistan.

Hundreds of people on both sides of the border were stranded, while people living in the bordering town were gripped by fear.

Pakistan has increased its troops and patrolling along the Pak-Afghan border to control any violation by the Afghan forces.

Residents of Chaman staged a protest against Afghan Inspector General of Border Police Commander Abdul Raziq Achakzai. The protesters chanted full-throated slogans against Achakzai for provoking clashes at the Pak-Afghan bordering town of Chaman.

COMMENTS (3)

NASIR SAEED | 5 years ago | Reply I blame america they will do more attacks because pakistan wont bend over anymore for them
JAVAID | 5 years ago | Reply What fence has to do with afghan peace ??? It is For Pakistan's Peace ... Wake UP please !!!!
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