Closed for three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic breakout. Finally, Pak-China trade opened for bilateral trade through Khunjerab Pass. Prime minister Shahbaz Sharif says that this step helps both countries to boost harmony and increase revenue.
The Khunjerab Pass is a major trade route between Pakistan and China. Now opened after a closure of almost three years in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The pass that connects Gilgit-Baltistan with China’s Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region was closed in the year 2020. After the spread of the Covid-19 outbreak. According to official sources, the Chinese authorities have shared a letter with Pakistani officials regarding the reopening of the pass for trade.
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The port authorities on the Chinese side of Khunjerab Pass have been instructed to take all necessary measures regarding Covid-19 before the start of the arrival of goods from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani border authorities have also been instructed to take all measures regarding Covid-19, ensuring the containment of the disease. It may be mentioned that as a result of cold weather and lack of oxygen in the high altitude. Khunjerab Pass generally opens from April 1 to November 30 every year. And remains closed from December 1 to March 31 of the following year.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his pleasure over the reopening of the Khunjerab Pass. Saying it would help increase bilateral trade between Pakistan and China. The reopening of the pass removes a hurdle that would further expedite the pace of work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he said.
The prime minister termed the occasion a welcome one for boosting trade with ‘Iron brother China’ and expressed his resolve to move ahead on CPEC with dual speed. He added that CPEC was a gift of progress and prosperity given by former prime minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and the Chinese leadership for the region and the people.
The premier also appreciated the relevant authorities of the two countries and team members over the restoration of trade and travel facility.