Tue Oct 21 16:38:51 UTC 2025: Summary:
Following a ceasefire brokered in Doha, the Chaman border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has partially reopened. Violent clashes had previously shut down the border, leaving hundreds of containers stranded and causing economic losses for traders. The reopening has allowed some containers to cross into Afghanistan, and facilitated the repatriation of Afghan families who were given orders to leave Pakistan due to lack of documentation as part of a government initiative, citing security and economic concerns. Both countries urged to fully restore trade activities.
News Article:
Pakistan-Afghanistan Border Partially Reopens After Ceasefire
Chaman, October 21, 2025 – The Chaman border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has partially reopened following a ceasefire agreement reached in Doha, ending days of violent clashes that resulted in casualties on both sides. The border crossing, vital for trade and movement between the two countries, had been sealed, causing significant disruption and economic losses.
On Monday, October 20, 2025, the first day of the reopening, several Afghan families began crossing back into Afghanistan through the Balochistan province. These families were being repatriated following a recent Pakistani government directive citing security and economic concerns, targetting individuals without proper documentation in Karachi. According to officials, approximately 3,400 individuals from 550 families made the crossing.
The closure had also left nearly 400 containers carrying goods from Karachi port stranded at the border. As of Monday evening, some of these containers began moving into Afghanistan. A similar situation was witnessed at the Spin Boldak border crossing.
Nafees Jan Achakzai, president of the Chaman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that hundreds of trucks loaded with goods, including fresh produce and essential items, remain stranded at Karachi port and near the border. He emphasized the urgent need for both countries to fully restore trade activities to avoid further economic damage.
Ataullah Bugti, a government official, confirmed that the district administration has provided basic facilities for the returning Afghan families. While the partial reopening is a welcome development, concerns remain about the full resumption of trade and the ongoing repatriation efforts.
First Piper 