China has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan, offering to play a constructive role in enhancing diplomatic relations and regional stability.
This assurance was shared following a recent development where both Pakistan and the interim Afghan government announced their intention to elevate their diplomatic missions to ambassadorial level. Speaking on the matter, Lin Jian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Beijing welcomes the move, considering it a step in the right direction for both nations.
According to Lin, this decision signals a positive shift in bilateral engagement, reflecting a mutual desire to improve communication and cooperation. He emphasized that increased diplomatic engagement could help rebuild trust, facilitate collaboration, and contribute significantly to peace and development in the region.
Lin also pointed out that the upgrading of diplomatic ties aligns with the outcomes of an informal trilateral meeting held in May this year, which brought together the foreign ministers of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. During that meeting, the three countries explored ways to improve regional connectivity, strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation, and promote economic integration.
China, maintaining strong diplomatic and economic relationships with both Islamabad and Kabul, has often acted as a mediator in regional dialogues. Its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which includes the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has vested interests in regional stability, especially concerning the security of infrastructure projects that could potentially extend into Afghanistan.
Beijing’s support for improved Pakistan-Afghanistan ties is consistent with its broader regional diplomacy aimed at fostering peace, enhancing trade, and building resilient partnerships across South and Central Asia.
