Pakistan and China on Monday issued a joint communique calling for more visible and verifiable measures to dismantle and eliminate all terrorist organisations operating from Afghan territory. They stressed that militant groups must be prevented from using Afghanistan to carry out attacks against any country, citing growing threats to regional and global security.
The statement followed the conclusion of the seventh round of the Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue, held in Beijing, where Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar led the Pakistani delegation. Both sides underlined the need for sustained international engagement on Afghanistan to curb militancy and promote long-term stability.
Regional security and counterterrorism focus
According to the communique, Pakistan and China agreed to maintain close coordination on Afghan affairs. They urged the Afghan authorities to establish an inclusive political framework, adopt moderate policies, prioritise development, and pursue good-neighbourly relations. Moreover, both countries committed to working with the international community to help Afghanistan integrate into the global system.
China commended Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and the measures taken to protect Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions. It recognised Pakistan’s sacrifices and contributions in the fight against terrorism over the years. In response, both sides reaffirmed zero tolerance for terrorism in all forms and pledged to deepen cooperation on security to ensure the smooth progress of Belt and Road projects. They also opposed double standards in global counterterrorism efforts.
Strategic ties, CPEC expansion discussed
During the dialogue, the two countries reviewed bilateral cooperation across politics, defence, economy, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. They agreed to enhance strategic communication, deepen mutual trust, and jointly safeguard shared interests while promoting regional peace and prosperity.
Pakistan and China also marked 75 years of diplomatic relations and launched commemorative activities to expand cooperation into new areas. Additionally, the two sides agreed to develop an upgraded version 2.0 of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, focusing on industry, agriculture, mining, and improved connectivity, including Gwadar Port and the Karakoram Highway.
