Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan have agreed to the CPEC expansion into Afghan territory, a major development in regional connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative. This decision was made during a trilateral meeting in Beijing, signaling stronger cooperation among the three nations.
Beijing Hosts Trilateral Talks
The informal meeting brought together Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Officials described the talks as positive and focused on promoting peace, economic integration, and counterterrorism.
The three sides agreed that regional stability depends on economic growth and joint efforts against terrorism. They emphasized that extending CPEC into Afghanistan could create new opportunities for trade, infrastructure, and long-term development.
China-Pakistan Partnership Strengthens
In a separate bilateral meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for China’s core interests. He also thanked Beijing for its consistent backing of Pakistan’s sovereignty and security.
Wang Yi referred to Pakistan as China’s “iron brother” and confirmed China’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic and political stability. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress of CPEC and welcomed the involvement of third-party countries in its next phase.
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Focus on Key Sectors
The ministers discussed expanding cooperation in several areas, including agriculture, information technology, industry, and investment. They also agreed to strengthen their coordination at regional and international platforms, supporting multilateralism as a guiding principle.
Afghanistan’s Role in Regional Connectivity
Afghanistan’s inclusion in the economic corridor marks a shift in its role in regional development. The three countries highlighted that deeper ties and cross-border projects would help rebuild Afghanistan’s economy and foster peace.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar also raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, urging a peaceful solution in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions. He stressed that lasting peace in South Asia depends on resolving long-standing disputes through diplomacy and dialogue.
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