The Khunjerab Pass, a crucial trade route between Pakistan and China, has recently reopened after nearly a three-year closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The pass linked Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan with China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and was shut down in 2020 following the emergence of Covid-19.
Official sources indicate that Chinese authorities have communicated with Pakistani officials about reopening the pass for trade purposes. The port authorities on the Chinese side have been instructed to implement all necessary precautions to prevent Covid-19 before accepting goods from Pakistan. Likewise, Pakistani border authorities have received instructions to enforce all Covid-19 measures to ensure the containment of the virus.
The Khunjerab Pass is typically accessible from April 1 to November 30 each year but is closed from December 1 to March 31 due to frigid weather and oxygen deficiency at high altitudes. However, the port was temporarily opened twice earlier this year to facilitate the smooth clearance of Pakistan’s urgently required supplies.
Despite extremely cold weather, heavy snow, and oxygen scarcity, local customs officials worked tirelessly to ensure cargo transportation. This year, the last temporary opening was from January 30 to February 10, while the first was between January 19 and 20. These temporary openings allowed 128 cross-border personnel visits, 328 vehicle passages, and the export of more than 6,000 tonnes of goods.
The reinstatement of the border crossing is anticipated to increase economic activity between the two countries. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is ecstatic about reopening the Khunjerab Pass, claiming that it will increase bilateral trade between Pakistan and China. In addition, he stated that the reopening would expedite the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. (CPEC).
The Prime Minister referred to the occasion as a welcome opportunity to strengthen trade with “Iron Brother China” and expressed his determination to advance CPEC faster. He acknowledged that CPEC is a gift of progress and prosperity from former Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and the Chinese leadership for the region and its people. Additionally, the Prime Minister commended the relevant authorities from both countries and the team members for their efforts in restoring trade and travel facilities.
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