Afghanistan- Progress in talks to reopen Ghulam Khan Port

(MENAFN- Pajhwok Afghan News) KHOST CITY (Pajhwok): Afghan and Pakistani officials say the Ghulam Khan Port in southeastern Khost province will be permanently kept open for people's movement and trade.

They made the announcement during a visit to the dry port on Wednesday, saying besides trade, both sides wanted to open the border crossing for crossDurand Line movement of people as well.

Currently, the Ghulam Khan Port is used only for cross border trade activities and no public movement is allowed.

Pakistani military official Col. Shehzad during a meeting said that Ghulam Khan Port would be opened for the movement of common people as well which would have a positive impact on economic activities.

Afghanistan Ambassador inPakistan Atif Mashal said that the Ghulam Khan Port would be officially reopened soon for people's movement.

Talking to reporters, Mashal said both governments had made progress in talks on the issue.

Mashal and local military and civil officials visited the port and facilities for customs and other authorities on the Afghan side of the port.

Innam Rahmani, an Afghan businessman, said that the Ghulam Khan port distance to Karachi sea port was 400 kilometres short compared to Torkham and Spinboldak.

He added their goods reach Khost fromKabul while through Ghulam Khan Port the goods would directly arrive in Khost.

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