The recent informal trilateral meeting in Beijing between the foreign ministers of Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan signals a hopeful turn toward greater regional cooperation and integration. At a time when much of the world is gripped by geopolitical strife and economic uncertainty, such efforts to build trust and partnerships among neighboring countries deserve recognition and support.
Two major outcomes of the meeting are particularly noteworthy. First, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to restore diplomatic representation by exchanging ambassadors — a crucial step in mending strained bilateral ties. Second, Afghanistan has been invited to join the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a central component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). If successfully implemented, this inclusion could transform Afghanistan’s economic landscape and significantly enhance regional connectivity.
These developments also underscore China’s emerging role as a key diplomatic player in global affairs. Beijing’s quiet yet effective facilitation of peace and cooperation — evidenced by its mediation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and efforts to bridge Palestinian factions — demonstrates a distinct style of diplomacy that favors economic interdependence and dialogue over confrontation. The Beijing trilateral forum is a continuation of this model, offering hope for sustainable engagement in a historically volatile region.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need to deepen Belt and Road cooperation and extend CPEC to Afghanistan, while also acknowledging security concerns. He urged joint efforts to combat terrorism — a message clearly aligned with Pakistan’s longstanding concern over the presence of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups operating from Afghan soil. These groups have carried out numerous attacks within Pakistan, complicating bilateral relations and threatening regional peace.
China’s mediation could serve as a stabilizing influence, especially in managing delicate issues such as cross-border militancy and territorial disputes, which have led to armed clashes in the past. If Afghanistan is to benefit from CPEC and expanded Chinese investments, the Taliban must demonstrate a genuine commitment to countering terrorism and ensuring regional security.
The potential dividends of trilateral cooperation are substantial. Afghanistan, ravaged by decades of war and international isolation, urgently needs infrastructure development, investment, and employment opportunities. Inclusion in CPEC could provide a much-needed economic lifeline. For Pakistan, a stable western neighbor means reduced security risks and increased trade potential. For China, it offers strategic depth and strengthened influence in Central and South Asia.
However, economic cooperation cannot flourish without parallel progress on the political and security fronts. The Taliban’s willingness to meet international expectations — particularly regarding human rights and counterterrorism — will ultimately determine the success of this diplomatic initiative. If these conditions are met, the Beijing trilateral could mark the beginning of a more peaceful and prosperous regional order.
