China Calls for Stronger Ties with Pakistan, Afghanistan
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a trilateral dialogue with his counterparts from Pakistan and Afghanistan in Kabul. The meeting focused on strengthening security cooperation, boosting trade, and expanding regional connectivity at a time when all three countries face growing internal and external challenges.
Security and Counterterrorism
Wang Yi urged the three nations to step up collaboration against terrorism and cross-border militancy. He stressed the need to create a regular trilateral security dialogue involving intelligence sharing, law enforcement cooperation, and coordinated action against extremist groups. China reiterated that it opposes outside interference and supports solutions driven by regional governments.
Push for Economic Development
The talks also addressed economic integration. Wang encouraged Pakistan and Afghanistan to expand trade and investment with China, highlighting opportunities in infrastructure, energy, and transit trade. He said stronger economic ties would help deliver stability and development, reducing the environment in which extremist groups operate.
CPEC Expansion into Afghanistan
One of the focal points was the planned extension of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. Officials said this could transform regional connectivity by linking Afghanistan more directly to Chinese and Pakistani infrastructure projects, opening new routes for commerce across South and Central Asia.
Strategic Relevance for China
China’s interest in closer cooperation stems from its concerns over security in its sensitive Xinjiang region, which borders both Pakistan and Afghanistan. By pushing stronger trilateral exchanges, Beijing aims to safeguard its western frontier while presenting itself as a stabilizing force in the region.
