China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan Agree to Extend CPEC into Afghan Territory
Beijing: In a significant regional development, China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan have agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. The agreement was reached during a trilateral meeting of foreign ministers held in Beijing, attended by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the Chinese Foreign Minister, and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
According to the statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the three countries reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation on regional security, economic development, and counter-terrorism. China expressed its firm support for the sovereignty, security, and stability of both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
During the meeting, the foreign ministers also agreed to enhance trilateral security cooperation and convene the 6th round of the Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue soon in Kabul.
The Foreign Office confirmed that Ishaq Dar held important meetings with his Chinese counterpart and other key officials during his visit. The Chinese Foreign Minister described Pakistan as a “steel friend” and “all-weather strategic partner,” emphasizing the importance of continued bilateral cooperation.
Ishaq Dar also stressed the need for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue, terming it essential for long-term peace in the region. Both sides expressed satisfaction over the accelerated progress on CPEC Phase Two.
Before concluding his three-day visit, Ishaq Dar addressed the media, terming the trilateral discussions as fruitful and constructive. He said that the strengthening of ties among China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan would play a vital role in promoting regional connectivity, peace, and prosperity.
