KURRAM: Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Sajid Hussain Turi held a jirga here on Sunday with the elders of Turi, Bangash other tribes of Kurram district to discuss the recent clashes on the Pak-Afghan border and the subsequent closure of the crossing point.

The jirga, also attended by members of Anjuman-i-Hussainiya and Tehreek Hussaini, was held at the deputy commissioner’s office.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Turi said people on both sides of the border had suffered irreparable losses due to clashes and terrorism incidents and now it was time for both the sides to play their role in establishing peace and stability in the region.

He appreciated the tireless efforts of security forces, the district administration and the local elders, which led to a ceasefire and opened way for negotiations.

Talking to Afghan tribal elders, who also participated in the jirga, the minister said the tribes on both sides of the border had cordial relations and that the land disputes between the two should be resolved through jirga.

Sajid Turi said elders from both the sides would soon convene a jirga to help resolve the land dispute.

The tribal elders commended the minister’s efforts for peace in the region. They said reopening of the border for trade and movement of people would augur well for both the countries.

Published in Dawn, November 28th, 2022