Afghanistan: Afghanistan's interim administration led by the Taliban on Wednesday urged the country's traders and industrialists to explore alternative trade routes instead of relying on Pakistan, official media reported.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the interim deputy prime minister for economic affairs, issued the directive during a meeting with business representatives in Kabul, as reported by Bakhtar News Agency. Baradar emphasized the need for this shift to be implemented promptly, citing Pakistan's frequent closure of border crossings, which he claims have been used as political leverage, causing substantial losses for Afghan traders.

The directive comes amid strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with Islamabad yet to respond to the statement from Kabul. Baradar further asserted that if Pakistan intends to reopen routes with Afghanistan, it must provide firm assurances that it will not close them again under any conditions, as reported by Tolo News.

Relations between the neighboring countries have soured in recent weeks following deadly border clashes last month. Both sides have engaged in several rounds of discussions to address disputes over militant activities, and a ceasefire is currently in place. The frequent closures of key crossings due to clashes and increasing militant attacks have disrupted trade and travel between the two nations, exacerbating the economic challenges faced by Afghan businesses.