The event began with the recitation of a few blessed verses from the Holy Quran by Qari Gul Mohammad Muslim.

Following that, the President of the Chamber, Alhaj Mohammad Siddiq (Mohmand), warmly welcomed all guests—especially the Consul of Pakistan, the Director of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the Customs Department, the respected Director of Agriculture Mawlawi Abdul Rashid Munib, national businessmen, and other attendees. He spoke about the importance of enhancing trade and improving commercial operations.

Then, the Director of Foreign Relations, Sheikh Sahib, discussed the value of good bilateral relations and neighborly cooperation between countries. He also welcomed the newly appointed Consul of Pakistan, Mr. Wais Ahmad, and requested the provision of necessary facilities for both the public and the business community. He particularly emphasized facilitating visas for Afghan citizens traveling to Pakistan for medical or other needs and called for improved ease in exports and imports.

After that, the Head of the Fresh Fruit Commission, Sayed Yaqoot Shah Agha, highlighted the urgency of visa processing. He stated that visas should be issued quickly, as traders urgently need them during peak harvest times. He added that in the previous year, efforts were made regarding customs penalties and that similar support should be provided this year to prevent the spoilage of fruits and ensure swift clearance processes.

Next, a member of the Board of Directors and the Head of the Dispute Resolution Committee, Haji Abdul Ahad Siddiqi, emphasized that trade between Afghanistan and Pakistan is essential. He noted that many issues can be resolved through their joint efforts and that smuggling has now been eliminated, with trade conducted according to proper regulations.
He stressed the importance of having complete documentation for all goods, and once customs duties are paid and official documents are issued at the Chaman border, those documents should be valid throughout Pakistan. He emphasized that trade strengthens the relations between the two countries.

Following that, the head of the fresh fruit market, Haji Mohammad Kandahari, said that Pakistan has raised tariffs on fresh fruits to such an extent that it is no longer profitable. Traders are suffering heavy losses—last year they faced losses, and now the same is happening. He added that there are still hurdles for trade trucks from the Chaman border to Quetta. A new route has been created but is not yet operational, and people are facing significant problems.

Afterward, the Director of Agriculture and Livestock, Mawlawi Abdul Rashid Munib, assured that his department stands in support of the traders and promised to provide all necessary facilities. He said he has directed his staff to deliver services effectively and efficiently.

The representative from the Customs Department also expressed commitment to supporting trade growth and improving facilitation processes.

Later, the Consul General of Pakistan in Kandahar, Mr. Wais Ahmad, stated that upon his arrival, he held meetings with relevant authorities and visited the border areas. He mentioned the issues raised by the Governor and said that decisions have been made to address those concerns.
He emphasized the importance of delivering on promises and said he would work to solve problems and push for progress in all areas. He acknowledged that institutions like the Customs and Agriculture Department are functioning well and called for lawful trade, stressing that illegal activities—especially smuggling—must be prevented. He requested from the visa officer, Mr. Babar, that all efforts be made to ease the visa process. He also mentioned that efforts are underway to reduce tariffs to zero.

Finally, the President of the Kandahar Chamber of Commerce and Investment, Alhaj Mohammad Siddiq (Mohmand), provided the Consul General of Pakistan with information about the historical background of the Chamber, the quality of Kandahar’s fresh fruit exports, and requested stronger trade ties between the two nations. In response, the Consul gave assurances of cooperation.

The meeting concluded with a prayer.

Date: Monday, 16 Saratan 1404 (Solar Hijri Calendar)