Afghanistan to Join CPEC: Trilateral Discussions Signal a New Era in Regional Security and Cooperation

A significant advancement for the region’s economic growth was made when the foreign ministers of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed to expand the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan during their trilateral meeting in Beijing. At this high-level gathering, which China hosted, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cross-border cooperation and diplomatic relations, advancing regional stability and development, and tackling the shared threat of terrorism. The two nations’ decision to strengthen their diplomatic contacts and their agreement to designate full-time ambassadors marked a significant turning point in their relationship.

At their trilateral meeting in Beijing, the foreign ministers of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan decided to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan, marking a major step forward for the region’s economic development. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering diplomatic ties and cross-border cooperation, promoting regional stability and development, and addressing the common threat of terrorism at this high-level meeting hosted by China. An important turning point in their relationship was reached when the two countries decided to increase diplomatic ties and agreed to appoint full-time ambassadors.

There are now hopes for a much-needed improvement in the tense relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan as a result of the problems that were decided upon at the recent conference. Both nations stand to gain security from the eradication of terrorism, and the expansion of CPEC to Afghanistan would boost regional economic growth. China is Pakistan’s steadfast ally and reliable ally. China praised Pakistan’s resilience, expressed pleasure with CPEC Phase II, and stated its openness to incorporate third parties. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar commended China for its support of Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and right to self-defense.