QUETTA, Feb 26 — Hundreds of people were stranded today at a key border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan, days after fighting between security forces left at least three dead.
Border tensions have risen since the Taliban’s return to power last year, with Pakistan alleging militant groups are planning attacks from Afghan soil. The Taliban deny harbouring Pakistani militants, but are also infuriated by a fence Islamabad is erecting along their 2,700-kilometre border, drawn up in colonial times and known as the Durand Line.“The border remains closed for passengers as well as trade,” a Pakistani security official told AFP.
“A delegation of tribal notables and religious leaders has been formed to hold talks with the Taliban,” he added. Thousands usually cross every day, including traders, Afghans seeking medical treatment in Pakistan, and people visiting relatives. — AFP