Pakistan and China have affirmed their commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s journey towards stability and international integration, as stated in a joint announcement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This declaration follows the conclusion of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s diplomatic visit to Beijing.
During the Fifth Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue, both nations pledged assistance to Afghanistan and urged global support in addressing humanitarian and economic challenges, fostering inclusive politics, advocating moderate policies, promoting good neighborly relations, and combating terrorism.
Discussions between Pakistani and Chinese officials encompassed various facets of their bilateral relations, spanning strategic, economic, political, defense, and cultural cooperation. Emphasis was placed on safeguarding mutual interests and fostering regional peace and development.
Affirming their enduring friendship and strategic trust, Pakistan and China committed to deepening cooperation across all sectors and implementing previously agreed-upon initiatives. They exchanged congratulations on recent accomplishments and reiterated support for each other’s core interests, including territorial integrity and counterterrorism efforts.
In response to the terrorist attack on the Dasu Hydropower Project convoy, both leaders vowed to bolster security measures and collaborate closely in counterterrorism endeavors. They stressed the significance of peace and stability in South Asia and endorsed peaceful conflict resolution through multilateral dialogue.
The two sides pledged to enhance collaboration on China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with a focus on aligning the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with Pakistan’s developmental objectives. They reaffirmed commitments to expedite infrastructure projects and strengthen cooperation in agriculture, industry, and technology. Ensuring year-round functionality of the Khunjerab Pass for bilateral trade was also highlighted.
The meeting addressed advancing energy cooperation, fortifying financial ties, and acknowledged China’s support during natural disasters in Pakistan. Furthermore, they celebrated burgeoning cooperation in space exploration and reiterated the importance of regional peace, particularly in resolving disputes such as the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, through established international norms and agreements.
In parallel, amid China’s formal acceptance of a permanent Afghan ambassador under the Taliban regime, a top aide to President Xi Jinping visited Islamabad on February 2 to apprise Pakistan of developments. Both sides reaffirmed commitment to a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, stressing enhanced coordination for regional stability and recognizing the pivotal role of neighboring nations in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
While regional countries had previously agreed to collectively decide on recognizing the Taliban government, China’s direct engagement with the Taliban government could potentially enhance its influence and benefit Pakistan in the long term. Nonetheless, China remains wary of Afghanistan being exploited by terrorist entities, indicating ongoing concerns despite diplomatic developments.
