Divided by Lines, United by Economy: Navigating the Af-Pak Economic Crossroads

Trucks loaded with supplies to leave for Afghanistan are seen stranded at the Michni checkpost, after the main Pakistan-Afghan border crossing closed after clashes, in Torkham, Pakistan September 7, 2023. REUTERS/Fayaz Aziz/

In the rugged terrains that define the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, the Durand Line stands not just as a physical demarcation but as a symbol of enduring political and economic tensions. Stretching over 2,400 kilometers, this colonial-era boundary has long been a source of contention, with implications that extend far beyond regional politics to encompass significant economic stakes for both nations.

Recent years have seen a marked increase in confrontations along the Durand Line, with Afghanistan and Pakistan locked in a complex dispute that intertwines security concerns with economic interests. Afghanistan has never formally recognized the border established by the British in 1893, which it argues unjustly divides ethnic Pashtun communities. Pakistan, on the other hand, asserts the importance of the border for national sovereignty and security, especially in curbing terrorism and regulating trade.

The political economy of the Durand Line is multifaceted, with trade and commerce at its core. “The border regions are crucial economic arteries for both countries, where informal trade and cross-border commerce have historically played a significant role in local economies,” explains Dr. Amina Khan, a regional expert at the Institute for Strategic Studies. However, the frequent closures and military standoffs disrupt trade flows, affecting both countries’ economies.

Security measures, including the construction of border fences by Pakistan, aim to combat cross-border terrorism but also impact legal trade and the livelihoods of communities reliant on border markets. According to the United Nations, the informal economy across the Af-Pak border is substantial, with millions of dollars’ worth of goods traded unofficially. This economic dynamic complicates the political landscape, intertwining local livelihoods with broader security policies.

Both Afghan and Pakistani officials express concerns over the potential for conflict escalation. “We are committed to protecting our national integrity and will take all necessary measures to ensure our border’s security,” stated a spokesperson from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Similarly, Afghan authorities have called for dialogue and a resolution that respects the rights and livelihoods of border communities.

International actors, including the United States and China, have a vested interest in the stability of the region. The Belt and Road Initiative and the potential for Central Asia-South Asia connectivity underscore the geopolitical importance of resolving the Af-Pak border dispute amicably. “Stability and economic development in the border regions are crucial for regional connectivity and prosperity,” commented a senior analyst from the Brookings Institution.

As both nations grapple with internal security challenges and the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, finding a pathway to cooperation over the Durand Line is more critical than ever. Experts agree that dialogue, trust-building measures, and a focus on economic cooperation could pave the way for a more stable and prosperous border region.

The political economy of the Durand Line encapsulates the broader challenges facing Afghanistan and Pakistan. Balancing security concerns with economic development, respecting community rights, and fostering regional cooperation remain pivotal in navigating the precarious landscape of the Af-Pak border.