Pakistan, Afghanistan agree on free movement of cargo trucks

The agreement is set to come into effect this month and will boost trade prospects for both the neighbouring countries

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to free movement of trucks and staff between the two countries, boosting bilateral trade prospects under the Taliban-led government.

The agreement was reached under the Temporary Admission Document (TAD), which would come into effect on March 21, Tolo News reported.

“We have finally done it! Historical development on regional connectivity front! We wish to share that Pakistan and Afghanistan have allowed free movement of each other’s trucks between the two countries and cross [staffing] Temporary Admission Documents (TAD),” said Abdul Razak Dawood, Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce and Investment.

Based on the agreement, Afghan consulates located in Quetta and Peshawar will issue documents for the movement of Pakistani trucks.

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Likewise, Pakistan's consulates based in Kandahar and Khost will issue the relevant papwers for the Afghan trucks.

According to the Joint Chamber of Commerce between Afghanistan and Pakistan, the agreement will enable free movement of Afghan trucks in Pakistani cities.

“The governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed on it and it will soon become effective in practice,” said Naqibullah Sapai, head of the Joint Chamber.

Afghan traders added that the free movement of the trucks would help reduce prices of commodities.

“Previously, the Afghan trucks were being fined while importing commodities from Karachi, but now these problems are resolved,” shared Zalmai Azimi, a trader.