Afghan-Pakistani border Jirga at Kharlachi stresses cooperation and goodwill

A border Jirga between Afghan and Pakistani officials was convened this week at the Kharlachi Border Terminal with the support of the Pakistan Army, bringing together tribal elders and traders from both countries to discuss matters of mutual interest.

As part of the meeting, the Afghan delegation visited the Pak-Afghan Bhai Chara Hospital located at the terminal and expressed satisfaction with the healthcare services available.

Participants emphasized the need to strengthen goodwill and expand practical cooperation across the frontier.

Pakistan reiterated its commitment to democratic values and the rule of law, while also putting forward proposals to create more employment opportunities for local communities living along the border.

Both sides agreed to continue collaboration in trade, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

The Jirga also highlighted the importance of making such meetings a regular feature to sustain dialogue and build stronger cross-border ties.

Border jirgas have long played an important role in resolving disputes and fostering cooperation between communities on both sides of the Durand Line. In areas like Kurram, where tribal and commercial ties run deep, such forums help maintain stability and ensure that local voices are heard in broader bilateral discussions.

The Kharlachi Border Terminal, one of several key crossing points between Afghanistan and Pakistan, has become a hub for trade and people-to-people exchange in recent years. Initiatives such as the Pak-Afghan Bhai Chara Hospital reflect ongoing efforts to ease humanitarian pressures and improve cross-border relations.

At a time when relations between Kabul and Islamabad often face challenges, local-level engagements like the Kharlachi Jirga are seen as a valuable channel for promoting mutual trust, addressing community needs, and strengthening economic cooperation between the two neighbors.