After a four-month closure due to winter conditions, the Khunjerab border between Pakistan and China has reopened for bilateral trade and tourism.
Situated at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet above sea level, the Khunjerab border is the sole land crossing linking the two countries.
According to the 1985 protocol agreement, the border is typically closed from December 1 to March 31 due to heavy snowfall. However, with the arrival of April, both passenger vehicles and goods transport have resumed operations in the border areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, Sust, and the Chinese city of Tashkurgan.
The reopening of the Khunjerab border heralds the commencement of bilateral trade and tourism activities between Pakistan and China. The name “Khujarab Pass” originates from the local Wakhi language, with “Khun” meaning blood and “Jerab” referring to a creek from a spring or waterfall.
Last November, the management of Khunjerab Port in China’s Xinjiang region announced the closure of the pass from December to March.
However, reopening discussions have been ongoing, with both countries aiming to amend and sign agreements on border ports and management systems through diplomatic channels to facilitate year-round access.