Trade Ties between Pakistan and India Remain Suspended Since 2019
Since 2019, trade ties between Pakistan and India have remained suspended due to heavy duties imposed by New Delhi on imports from Pakistan after the Pulwama attack. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted the impact of the Pulwama attack, which occurred on Feb 14, 2019, resulting in the loss of 40 personnel in Indian-occupied Kashmir.
India’s decision to impose a 200 per cent duty on imports from Pakistan, suspend the Kashmir bus service, and halt trade across the Line of Control has further strained the relationship between the two countries. Mr. Dar emphasized the challenges Pakistan faces in its relations with India, Afghanistan, and Iran, advocating for constructive engagement and dialogue to resolve outstanding issues, including the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir.
Despite Pakistan’s efforts for peace and cooperation, India’s actions have impeded progress and posed challenges to normalization of relations. The foreign minister also addressed the issue of terrorism from Afghanistan, highlighting the impact of attacks by the TTP and its affiliates based in the country.
Published in Dawn, May 19th, 2024