The ‘Pakistan Gate’ – aimed at improving border management and curbing illegal trade between the two neighbouring countries – would be formally inaugurated on the Independence Day (August 14) this year.

The construction of the gate would complete within two months at an estimated cost of Rs15 million, the officials said.

Together, the Frontier Corps Sector Commander Brigadier Khalid Beg and Balochistan Collector Customs Saeed Ahmed Jadoon laid the foundation stone of the gate at Taftan in Chagai district. Civil and military officials along with several tribal leaders were also present on the occasion.

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Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Taftan, Brigadier Beg explained that the aim of building the ‘Pakistan Gate’ was to improve border management. He said it would also serve as a trade gate, facilitating thousands of traders crossing into Pakistan.

The gate would represent Pakistan on the border, being constructed jointly by the Balochistan customs and the Frontier Corps, said Jadoon.

It is important to mention here that Iran has long been demanding Pakistan to build a trade gate on its side of the border after it built a similar gate on its side at Mir Java in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan province. Iran has created 10-foot-high walls at various places along with its border with Pakistan.

Jadoon while giving more details said even though the gate was Pakistan’s requirement to strengthen border management, it was also requested by Iran to help curb illegal trade on both sides of the border.

The officials also announced that Islamabad was also planning to construct a ‘Pakistan House’ at Taftan border to facilitate pilgrims en route to Iran and Iraq.

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