china, Afghanistan, and Pakistan Deepen Strategic Cooperation
Table of Contents
Kabul – In a meaningful move to bolster regional stability, China, Afghanistan, and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced collaboration across trade, connectivity, and security. The pledge came during the sixth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue, held in Kabul on wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Trilateral Dialogue: A Platform for Regional Coordination
The talks brought together Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad ishaq Dar. This trilateral mechanism, initially established in 2017 and revitalized in 2022, provides a crucial forum for policy alignment among the three neighboring nations. An informal meeting in Beijing this past May further solidified ongoing engagement.
Wang Yi emphasized China’s dedication to strengthening exchanges and fostering strategic trust with both Afghanistan and Pakistan. He advocated for expanded economic ties, improved infrastructure, increased cultural exchange, and a unified front against transnational terrorism.
Pro Tip: Understanding the historical context of regional alliances is crucial for interpreting current geopolitical strategies.
Addressing Regional Concerns and Security
The Chinese Foreign Minister urged all parties to resist external interference and prevent the use of their territories to undermine the sovereignty, security, or territorial integrity of others. Beijing also pledged continued support for Afghanistan’s integration into the international community and the normalization of its diplomatic relations.
Muttaqi expressed gratitude for China’s constructive role in fostering trilateral cooperation, highlighting Afghanistan’s desire for deeper friendship and collaborative progress. Dar underscored the immense potential for cooperation in areas such as trade, the Belt and Road Initiative, infrastructure development, and counterterrorism efforts. He also called for the release of Afghanistan’s frozen overseas assets and increased collective action against all forms of terrorism.
Wang Yi’s Visit: Signaling China’s Commitment
This Kabul meeting marks Wang Yi’s second visit to Afghanistan as the Taliban regained power in 2021, following a previous trip in March 2022. Analysts interpret these visits as a clear indication of China’s sustained commitment to maintaining strong ties with Afghanistan and promoting regional stability. Did you know that China has consistently maintained diplomatic relations with Afghanistan even after the Taliban takeover?
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Launch of China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue | Beijing |
| 2022 | Revival of Trilateral Dialogue | Beijing |
| May 2025 | Informal Ministerial meeting | Beijing |
| August 20, 2025 | sixth china-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue | Kabul |
Liu Zongyi, director of the Center for South Asian Studies at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies, noted that China and Pakistan are leading the way in supporting Afghanistan’s stability, reconstruction, and reintegration into the global community. He contrasted this approach with the unilateral sanctions and asset freezes imposed by some Western nations.
strengthening Bilateral Ties and Addressing Terrorism
Earlier on Wednesday, Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund met with Wang Yi, describing China as a “force for justice” and praising its non-interference policy. Akhund assured Wang that Afghanistan would not allow its territory to be used to threaten China and expressed a desire for a lasting and positive relationship with Beijing.
wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to fairness and practical cooperation, while also reiterating concerns about the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a UN-designated terrorist group. He urged Kabul to intensify efforts to suppress the group’s activities. The ETIM’s presence in Afghanistan has been a long-standing concern for China, as the group has been linked to separatist movements in Xinjiang (Council on Foreign Relations).
Liu Zongyi emphasized that China’s approach differs from “countries obsessed with geopolitical competition,” highlighting China’s focus on a pleasant policy towards the Afghan people and a trustworthy partnership for the country’s future. Despite political shifts, diplomatic missions in both China and Afghanistan remain operational, sustaining bilateral relations.
What impact will this trilateral cooperation have on the broader geopolitical landscape of Central and South Asia? How will these partnerships influence regional security and economic development?
China’s Expanding Role in Afghanistan
China’s increasing engagement in Afghanistan reflects a broader strategic shift towards greater involvement in regional affairs. This is driven by several factors, including China’s economic interests in Central Asia, its concerns about regional security, and its desire to project itself as a responsible global power. The Belt and Road Initiative, in particular, is a key driver of China’s engagement, as Afghanistan is seen as a potential transit route for trade between China and other countries in the region.
Frequently Asked questions about China-Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation
- what is the primary goal of the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral dialogue? The main goal is to promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity through enhanced cooperation on trade, connectivity, and security.
- what are China’s key interests in Afghanistan? china is primarily interested in ensuring regional stability, preventing terrorism, and securing its economic interests in Central Asia.
- What has been Pakistan’s role in this trilateral cooperation? pakistan plays a crucial role as a facilitator and mediator between China and Afghanistan, leveraging its historical ties and regional influence.
- what concerns does China have regarding Afghanistan? China is concerned about the potential for terrorism and extremism emanating from Afghanistan, especially from groups like the ETIM.
- how does this cooperation differ from Western approaches to Afghanistan? China emphasizes non-interference and economic engagement,while some Western countries have focused on political conditions and sanctions.
We hope this article provided valuable insight into the evolving dynamics of regional cooperation. share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to World Today News for the latest updates on global affairs!
