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       PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Wednesday stressed the importance of opening seven western border crossings with Afghanistan saying the move will enhance regional trade and connectivity, especially through the Central Asia Corridor.

       He said this during a meeting with delegates from the National Defence University during their visit to Governor’s House here.

       Director General of the Institute of Strategic Studies and Research Analysis Major General Mohammad Raza Aizad led the visitors from the 26th National Security Workshop.

       The workshop brought together members of parliament, academics, bureaucrats, business community leaders, and representatives of civil society.

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       Complains tribal districts yet to get due share in resources

       The governor briefed them about the constitutional responsibilities and historical significance of the Governor’s House.

       The participants raised various questions about the province, including the situation in the newly-merged tribal districts, issues related to higher education, natural resources, and other important matters.

       The governor highlighted the unique position of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to its geographical location, especially its proximity to the Afghanistan border.

       “The province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is distinct from other provinces due to its location along the Afghan border,” he said.

       Mr Kundi said the opening of all border crossings with Afghanistan would not only improve trade but also enhance economic activity in the region, benefiting Central Asia.

       He expressed concern about the issues facing people of merged tribal districts affected by years of conflict and said while those areas were integrated with the province, they had yet to receive their due rights and benefits.

       “Tribal region was merged with our province but they have not been given their rightful share in resources,” he said.

       The governor said for years, the country had extended hospitality to Afghans, so visa processes should be made easier and joint markets with Afghanistan and Iran should be established.

       He addressed several key issues affecting the province, including energy, natural resources, and the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue.

       “We must focus on negotiating and resolving issues peacefully, as the world has chosen dialogue while we remain caught in disputes,” he said.

       Highlighting the energy potential of the province, the governor pointed out that despite vast hydroelectric capacity, the province had not fully utilised that resource, causing electricity costs to go up.

       He emphasised the province’s continued struggle to receive its rightful share of oil and gas royalties, as well as water resources.

       “There are many issues that need to be addressed through workshops like this, where think tanks can present solutions and recommendations for the betterment of the province and the country,” he said.

       Mr Kundi said that KP and Balochistan were the most affected provinces, so preferences should be given to them.

       He said the visit provided the visitors with an opportunity for an in-depth exchange of ideas and a closer look at the region’s challenges and potential solutions.

       Published in Dawn, November 7th, 2024