ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have decided to expand the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, according to officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The decision is seen as a significant step towards regional cooperation despite the temporary deterioration of relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The Senate Foreign Affairs Committee officials revealed that Pakistan and China are currently developing their diplomatic ties because of Afghanistan’s political changes. China is working to enhance diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan but faces various difficulties.
The officials reported that India’s position which blocked SAARC development, has caused regional cooperation frameworks to fail, including the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and other regional initiatives. In response, Pakistan has focused on developing better diplomatic ties with its neighbouring countries, especially with China and Afghanistan.
Officials confirmed that Pakistan and China both view terrorism in Afghanistan as a common problem which China raised as an Afghan security issue. The CPEC expansion project will connect BRI corridors with the Maritime Silk Road which will enhance regional trade activities and improve transportation links.
The officials also discussed the Chinese concerns regarding terrorism in Afghanistan, where it was stated that Pakistan and China have a similar stance on this matter. The CPEC will be extended to connect the Belt and Road Initiative routes with the Maritime Silk Road.
The Foreign Secretary also briefed the committee, saying that Pakistan is not going to join any particular group but is instead improving its position in the international diplomatic setup. He said that terrorism is a threat to the entire world and that Pakistan is holding joint military exercises to combat cross-border terrorism, especially to ensure that terrorists do not use the borders as safe havens.
