THE Pak-Afghan border crossing at Chaman, Balochistan, has been closed by Pakistani authorities since Afghan protesters burnt this country’s flag and reportedly vandalised the Friendship Gate at the crossing on Aug 18. Two separate demonstrations were held on the day in the vicinity, one on the Pakistani side to protest against Indian Prime Minister Modi’s inflammatory remarks targeting Pakistan, the other across the border, where a gathering to celebrate Afghanistan’s independence took on a decidedly anti-Pakistan tone. As is the case when hyper-nationalistic sentiments are whipped up, the Afghan demonstrators reportedly ended up attacking the border gate and burning the Pakistan flag. In reaction to this, the local authorities have kept the crossing shut; vehicles and people have been unable to cross the border for the last 11 days, with Islamabad insisting that Kabul apologise for the provocation.

While the flag-burning stunt is indeed deplorable, the fact is that common people on both sides of the border are suffering due to the closure. It is estimated that between 10,000 and 15,000 traders cross over daily, while trucks laden with perishable produce are waiting in queues, with their cargo bound to spoil in the summer heat. Moreover, vehicles carrying supplies for Nato forces in Afghanistan have also been held up. While Islamabad is well within its rights to protest the desecration of the national flag, it should take steps immediately to reopen the crossing and let common people cross the border. The incident should not be lumped together with the larger Pak-Afghan relationship, which, at this point in time, is anything but cordial. Earlier on, the Torkham crossing was also closed for a brief period. In fact, if Pakistan showed magnanimity over the issue and reopened the Chaman crossing, it would send a positive signal to Kabul. Those elements — such as militants — that are standing in the way of better Pak-Afghan relations should be the ones prevented from crossing the border, not ordinary citizens of both countries.

Published in Dawn, August 28th, 2016