In this interview with Matrix Media, veteran economist Haroon Sharif sheds light on what lies behind the Afghans’ (especially the business community’s) dismay towards Pakistan, and the repercussions if the chaos at the borders continues. Pakistan has gradually been losing Afghan trade because of multiple bureaucratic hurdles and corrupt practices by its officials at Torkham, Chaman, and Ghulam Khan border crossings. Repeated attempts by the top political and military brass have often failed because of the collusion among officials of various departments. Corruption looms large as Pakistan pushes for more coal imports from Afghanistan, which largely depends on imports (edibles, construction materials) from its eastern neighbour.
Courtesy: Matrix Media
Dated: 05-10-2022
