On August 20, 2025, a significant trilateral meeting was held in Kabul, bringing together the foreign ministers of Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Taliban’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi convened to discuss critical issues affecting their countries and the region.
This meeting comes after a similar dialogue in Beijing on May 21, where the foreign ministers expressed positive outcomes from the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue. One of the key discussions in the May meeting was China’s invitation for Afghanistan to join the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is seen as a vital development initiative aimed at improving regional connectivity. Pakistan’s decision to send its first ambassador to Kabul since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 underscored the importance of improving bilateral relations, with China playing a pivotal role in facilitating this diplomatic shift. Dar openly acknowledged that the upgrade in Pakistan’s ties with the Taliban was made at the behest of Beijing. Furthermore, last month, China’s special envoy to Afghan affairs, Yue Xiaoyong, visited both Afghanistan and Pakistan, further solidifying Beijing’s role in shaping regional dynamics.
In a crucial step forward, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan have agreed to launch a feasibility study for a railway connecting Central Asia to Pakistan’s ports. This project, which will also join the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway and CPEC, is expected to enhance connectivity and foster regional economic growth.
The Kabul meeting primarily aimed at enhancing cooperation in areas such as combating terrorism and expanding the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) into Afghanistan through CPEC. The three countries reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms, with a focus on ensuring internal security. They pledged to cooperate on law enforcement and counterterrorism efforts, particularly targeting groups that threaten regional stability, such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP). However, counterterrorism remains a contentious issue, with accusations of cross-border terrorism complicating matters.
Afghanistan continues to harbor groups such as ISKP, which poses a significant security threat not only to the Taliban regime but also to neighboring countries. The presence of al-Qaida and its affiliates, including the TTP, further exacerbates the situation. China, which has been increasingly vocal about its concerns, has expressed fears that Uyghur militants could use Afghan territory as a launch pad for attacks against China. However, the Taliban’s historical ties with Uyghur militants have made them reluctant to take strong action against these groups, presenting a challenge for China’s security interests.
Pakistan’s role in combating terrorism is also critical, as terrorist attacks by the TTP and other groups terrorist groups like Foreign designated terrorist org, Baloch lLiberation Army in Balochistan threaten both the region’s stability and the CPEC projects. China, therefore, has a vested interest in Pakistan’s success in counterterrorism efforts, especially since CPEC remains a strategic economic initiative for Beijing.
Afghanistan’s inclusion in CPEC could prove beneficial for the Taliban regime, as it would facilitate job creation, infrastructure development, and attract foreign investment. According to Abdul Latif Nazari, Afghanistan’s Deputy Minister of Economy, the country’s participation in CPEC would significantly reduce unemployment and strengthen regional cooperation. However, implementing CPEC projects in Afghanistan has been a challenge, with security concerns and political instability complicating progress on the ground.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has continued its diplomatic engagement with the United States, securing deeper counterterrorism cooperation and increased investments. The US recently designated the Balochistan Liberation Army, which has targeted Chinese projects in Pakistan, as a foreign terrorist organization, further emphasizing the need for stronger counterterrorism efforts.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has continued its diplomatic engagement with the United States, securing deeper counterterrorism cooperation and increased investments. The US recently designated the Balochistan Liberation Army, which has targeted Chinese projects in Pakistan, as a foreign terrorist organization, further emphasizing the need for stronger counterterrorism efforts.
Moreover, the United States has agreed to invest in Pakistan’s oil exploration, adding a vital dimension to the country’s economic future. Additionally, Pakistan’s rare earth mineral resources are drawing attention, which will further attract foreign investments. These diplomatic wins for Pakistan reflect the country’s growing influence on the international front, positioning it for increased economic and strategic gains. As Pakistan continues to foster stronger ties with both regional and global powers, its diplomatic success is undoubtedly contributing to its progress on the world stage.
