Inauguration of Ghulam Khan Border Post

A high ranking delegation from the Ministry of Finance headed by the Minister Dr. Ashraf Ghani and the Deputy Minister for Customs and Revenue Mr. Ghulam Jelani Popal traveled to the southern provinces of Khost and Paktia during the month of October to participate in a range of events and consultations with local representatives. 

During the trip, the delegation discussed different economic and financial issues in meetings with tribal leaders, government officials and experts in various communities.  The Minister reviewed the present economic situation of the country and the future perspectives, pointing out the challenges lying ahead as well as the means for achieving sustainable economic prosperity.  In this regard, he provided detailed information on the causes of poverty and unemployment, the opportunities arising from the development of the private sector and trade, and the current status of the national revenue. 

One of the main purposes of the delegation’s trip was to inaugurate the Ghulam Khan Border Post in the province of Khost.  Ghulam Khan borders with Pakistan’s North Western Frontier Province and is located within the Southeastern Corridor, a major transit area for goods transported to and from the neighboring nation.  No Customs institution or border post had been operating perviously in the province. 

In this context, the establishment of the Ghulam Khan Border Post represents one of the most significant achievements in the reform of the Customs administration.  The post will contribute to the implementation of standard Customs procedures and enforcement measures to a significant flow of trade, enhancing revenue collection and limiting illicit and smuggling activities.

 
Dr. Ghani at the Ghulam Khan Border Post

The Ghulam Khan border is moreover positioned on an ideal and rapid trade route between the Central Asian region and the commercial hub of Karachi.  Due to its strategic location, donor organizations and countries may be willing to support the rehabilitation of the road from Ghulam Khan to Khost.  In the future, regulated trade through this border will also entail important economical and social benefits for the population of the area. 

The inauguration of the Ghulam Khan Border Post further highlights the key role which is played by the Customs administration reform in promoting trade and economic sustainability in Afghanistan, in direct furtherance of the National Development Program objectives.

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