BEIJING: Foreign ministers from Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan convened in Beijing for a trilateral meeting aimed at bolstering regional cooperation and connectivity. The talks, involving Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, centered on strategic collaboration for regional peace and development.

The meeting underscored the importance of the trilateral platform in fostering mutual trust and dialogue among the three nations. The ministers acknowledged the positive changes in Afghanistan’s security landscape and stressed that strong economic ties and connectivity are vital for regional prosperity.

Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade, transit, health, and connectivity ties with Afghanistan. Both China and Pakistan expressed their intent to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, aligning it with the Belt and Road Initiative. China also voiced its support for Pakistan and Afghanistan in safeguarding their sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The ministers emphasized the need for enhanced security cooperation to combat terrorism and external threats, which they identified as crucial for achieving their economic ambitions. The three sides reiterated their opposition to terrorism in all its forms.

The next meeting of the Trilateral Foreign Ministers is scheduled to take place in Kabul at a mutually agreeable date, signaling continued diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation among the three countries.