The Khunjerab Port management in China’s Xinjiang region issued a notice on Saturday, officially declaring the closure of Khunjerab Pass for a four-month period during winter, from December to March. This decision contradicts the joint press statement from October 20, following a meeting between caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The initial statement had asserted the year-round operational status of Khunjerab Pass.
According to the notice, both countries need to revise and sign the agreement on border ports and management systems through diplomatic channels to ensure the year-round opening of Khunjerab Pass, in accordance with the “Port Entry and Exit Management Measures.”
China’s State Port Management Office will actively seek approval for the year-round operation of Khunjerab Port from relevant authorities. Until an official notice is issued by China’s State Port Management Office, Khunjerab Port will maintain its seasonal customs clearance mode, closing from December to March. However, the management of Xinjiang’s Khunjerab Port plans to seek temporary pass openings for special needs.