By Ashima Gul
Pakistan’s Border Security
The world is full of borders, and yet, borders are the clear demarcations of a country’s sovereignty, but they are also the fragile threads that connect nations and cultures. This paradox is particularly relevant for Pakistan, with its 7,000-kilometer-long border shared with four countries: Afghanistan (2,670 km), Iran (959 km), India (3,190 km), and China (595 km).
Pakistan-Afghanistan Border
The Durand Line is a highly porous border. According to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the conflict in Afghanistan continues to affect border security.
Pakistan has:
• Constructed a fence along the border, with over 1,400 km completed as of 2023
• Established 850 border posts
• Deployed over 170,000 troops along the border
Pakistan-Iran Border
The Pakistan-Iran border has seen drug trafficking. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Iran and Pakistan accounted for 85% of the world’s opium seizures in 2020, with 89 tons of opium confiscated.
Pakistan has:
• Established joint border patrols with Iran
• Increased cooperation with Iranian authorities to share intelligence
• Implemented measures to enhance border surveillance and control
Pakistan-India Border
The Line of Control (LoC) between Pakistan and India has seen tensions. The ceasefire agreement is monitored by the Director-General of Military Operations (DGMO) on both sides.
Pakistan-China Border
The Pakistan-China border is relatively peaceful, with both countries enjoying strong diplomatic ties. They have cooperated on several infrastructure projects, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
In conclusion, Pakistan’s efforts to secure its borders are a testament to its commitment to national security and regional stability. As Hasan Askari Rizvi, a renowned Pakistani political analyst and author, notes in his book “Pakistan’s National Security: A Reader”, Pakistan’s borders embody the nation’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, in essence.
With its comprehensive border management strategy, Pakistan is not only strengthening its security but also contributing to regional peace and cooperation. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of its borders, it remains steadfast in its commitment to building a safer and more secure future for its citizens.