Trilateral Cooperation: CPEC Expansion to Afghanistan Agreed

The foreign ministers of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan have agreed to expand their trilateral cooperation, particularly by extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. This decision follows a dialogue in Kabul and aims to enhance economic, security, and political ties amidst ongoing regional tensions.

In a significant diplomatic advancement, the foreign ministers of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan convened in Kabul to enhance their cooperation across various sectors. Among the key outcomes is the plan to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, marking a strategic regional partnership.

The meeting, which saw the participation of Pakistan's Ishaq Dar, China's Wang Yi, and Afghanistan's acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, focused on reinforcing political, economic, and security ties. This collaboration is seen as a crucial step for regional development, coinciding with an upcoming launch of the second CPEC phase.

In a statement, Pakistan's Foreign Office emphasized their collective commitment to counter-terrorism and cooperation in trade and transit. Notably, China played a mediating role between Pakistan and Afghanistan, addressing security concerns raised by Pakistan related to cross-border attacks. This diplomatic development sets the stage for the upcoming SCO summit in China.

(With inputs from agencies.)