"My Visit to Gabd-Rimdan: The Final Border Crossing on the Pakistan-Iran Border"

06th February, 2020 (Date of Visit)

After Pakistan's independence from British India in 1947, Iran and Pakistan established the boundaries between their respective territories in 1958-59. The process involved both the delineation of the borders and the physical marking of the boundary lined their mutual border, marking a significant step in their historical relationship.

Among the four official border crossings shared by Iran and Pakistan, Rimdan stands as a critical junction linking the southeastern Sistan province of Iran to Pakistan's Balochistan province. Serving as a pivotal entry point for both travelers and goods, Rimdan plays a central role in facilitating trade, commerce, and interactions between these neighboring nations.

In the realm of trade and commerce, the two primary border crossings, Taftan and Gabd, serve not only as routes for pedestrians but also as conduits for trade. Conversely, Mand and Chadgi are exclusively reserved for trade purposes. Recognizing the potential for economic growth, Iran and Pakistan have joined hands to establish joint-border markets aimed at bolstering trade. The initial phase witnessed the operationalization of three markets at Gabd, Mand, and Chadgi, promoting economic engagements at these border points.

Strategically positioned approximately 120 kilometers from Iran's bustling port city of Chabahar and merely 70 kilometers from Pakistan's thriving port city of Gwadar, Rimdan's geographical proximity to these major ports underscores its significance. 

Gabd-Rimdan, as the second entry point along the 900-kilometer border between Iran and Pakistan, acts as an additional link fostering trade and public movement. Its inauguration symbolized the joint efforts and shared aspirations of both countries to promote trade, cultural affinity, and people-to-people connections.