China to extend economic corridor project into Afghanistan
China, Pakistan and Afghanistan’s interim Taliban government have reached a consensus on expanding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghan territory, broadening the scope of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in the region.
During a trilateral meeting held in Beijing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister of the Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan.
According to a statement from China’s foreign ministry, all three sides agreed to extend the ongoing CPEC infrastructure projects—originally centered in Pakistan—into Afghanistan. The move signals Beijing’s intent to deepen regional connectivity and investment through its flagship Belt and Road strategy.
While relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been tense due to security concerns and anti-terrorism issues, both nations have reportedly agreed to reestablish diplomatic presence by appointing ambassadors in the near future.
A statement from the Taliban’s foreign ministry, quoting Muttaqi, conveyed the group’s readiness to enhance political and economic cooperation with both China and Pakistan.
Despite no country officially recognizing the Taliban government since it seized power in 2021, China has taken steps to strengthen engagement, appointing an ambassador to Kabul in 2023.
This development suggests Beijing is positioning itself to play a more prominent role in Afghanistan's reconstruction and regional integration through its Belt and Road Initiative.
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