China Backs CPEC Extension to Afghanistan under BRI Framework
Islamabad/Beijing: China and Pakistan on Wednesday reiterated their firm support for extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan, under the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aiming to foster greater regional connectivity and economic integration.
The commitment was reaffirmed during the 5th China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue held in Beijing. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi—also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee—and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi participated in the wide-ranging and constructive discussions.
According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office, the three sides underscored the importance of the trilateral platform in advancing regional peace, fostering economic development, and realising a shared strategic vision for connectivity across the region.
The foreign ministers welcomed the recent improvements in Afghanistan’s security landscape and agreed that robust economic ties and improved regional connectivity are critical for sustained development and prosperity.
Highlighting the necessity of sustained diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation, the ministers agreed to intensify collaboration through enhanced communication and mutual trust.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening close and cooperative ties with Afghanistan, particularly in areas of trade, transit, healthcare, and regional connectivity.
China, in turn, expressed full support for Pakistan and Afghanistan in safeguarding their territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national dignity.
The three sides also emphasised the need for concerted efforts to eliminate terrorism and counter external threats, which they noted are essential for achieving broader economic and connectivity objectives. They reaffirmed their united stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
It was further agreed that the 6th Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Meeting will be convened in Kabul at an early, mutually agreed date.
