Islamabad, March 19 (IANS): Pakistan on Thursday decided to seal its eastern border with India for a period of two weeks amid concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.

"I am directed to refer to the subject cited above and convey the approval of the Competitive Authority for complete sealing of Wagah Border for an initial period of two weeks with immediate effect in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19, in best interest of both countries," said Section Officer Naqeeb Arshad, who signed the letter, sent to the secretary to Prime Minister Imran Khan, secretaries of the ministries of defence, foreign affairs and commerce and other regional officials.

Earlier, movement of foreigners and commodities from Pakistan at the joint check post (JCP) at Wagah-Attari was suspended indefinitely on March 13 as a precautionary measure against coronavirus.

On March 14, Pakistan shut its western border with Iran and Afghanistan for two weeks due to the threat of coronavirus pandemic. Pakistan's Interior Ministry asked authorities in Peshawar, Dera Ismail Khan, Quetta and Turbat to convey that the National Security Committee approved the complete sealing of the borders.

The official letter said the decision will come into effect from March 16 in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, in the best interests of all three countries.