Khunjerab Pass – symbol of friendship

A vital land port on the China-Pakistan border, the Khunjerab Pass, has begun operating year-round, a change that experts believe will significantly enhance bilateral trade and benefit the surrounding region.

Previously open for only eight months each year, the Khunjerab Pass transitioned to year-round operations on December 1. This move is anticipated to strengthen economic ties between the two countries and propel the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into its next phase of development.

Zulkafil Hassan Khan, president of the Society of International Relations & Law in Islamabad and director of the Pak-China Corridor of Knowledge, described this as a landmark achievement. He highlighted its importance in enhancing trade and uplifting local communities, emphasizing the pass’s role in fostering stronger land connectivity between the two nations.

The Khunjerab Pass is located at an altitude of around 5 kilometers above sea level and connects China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region with Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region via the Karakoram Highway. Experts noted that the pass facilitates the efficient transport of goods such as machinery and textiles, further boosting regional trade.

Khan expressed optimism that the year-round opening would stimulate regional economic growth, encourage greater people-to-people interaction, and promote connectivity.

Moiz Farooq, executive editor of Pakistan Economic Net and Daily Ittehad Media Group, hailed the development as a symbol of enduring China-Pakistan ties. He emphasized the pass’s critical role in improving connectivity and trade, serving as a vital gateway linking China, Pakistan, South Asia, and beyond, while advancing CPEC’s objectives.

Khunjerab Customs reported handling over 50,000 passengers, 11,000 vehicles, and 40,900 metric tons of cargo since resuming passenger customs clearance on April 1. The 72.7% year-on-year increase in trade volume demonstrates the route’s potential, and year-round operations are expected to further boost economic activity, cultural exchanges, and regional integration.

Symbol of Friendship

Farooq described the Khunjerab Pass as a symbol of friendship and collaboration, reflecting both nations’ commitment to mutual prosperity and connectivity. He noted the shared vision of overcoming challenges such as harsh weather and high altitudes, emphasizing the importance of sustainable infrastructure for economic resilience.

Imran Khalid, an international affairs commentator, called the decision to keep the pass open year-round a game changer for regional trade and tourism. He said it would enhance Pakistan’s role as a trade hub linking Central Asia, South Asia, and Europe, while promoting cultural exchanges, stabilizing supply chains, and supporting CPEC objectives.

Bai Zhijun, director of the documentary From Xi’an to Gwadar Port, highlighted the strategic significance of the Khunjerab Pass and the Karakoram Highway as key components of CPEC. He noted their role in enabling trade and communication among neighboring countries, including Central Asia, which stands to gain from these open channels.