Kabul Hosts Trilateral Dialogue on Regional Cooperation

A high-level Pakistan-China-Afghanistan dialogue is taking place in Kabul today, bringing together foreign ministers from the three countries to discuss counter-terrorism, regional trade, and connectivity. This marks the first trilateral meeting hosted in Afghanistan since the Taliban assumed control of Kabul, signaling renewed regional engagement.

Trilateral Meeting in Kabul

The Afghan foreign ministry confirmed that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi are attending the talks.

The discussions aim to review earlier commitments and explore practical steps for stronger cooperation. Central themes include counter-terrorism coordination, expanding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, and advancing regional trade and connectivity.

Officials highlighted that the participants will also deliberate on shaping future relations grounded in shared interests, mutual trust, and broad-based collaboration.

Counter-Terrorism at the Core

One of the top priorities on the agenda is enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation. The three countries face common security challenges, and the Kabul meeting provides an opportunity to work out mechanisms for joint responses.

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Pakistan and China have repeatedly underscored the need for Afghanistan to ensure its soil is not used by militant groups targeting neighboring states. By formalizing commitments at this trilateral platform, the parties aim to strengthen coordination against extremist threats.

CPEC Extension to Afghanistan

Another significant issue under discussion is the extension of CPEC into Afghanistan. Both Islamabad and Beijing view Afghanistan as a crucial link for regional connectivity. Expanding infrastructure projects into Afghan territory could open new trade corridors, improve economic activity, and stabilize the region.

If finalized, the extension of CPEC would connect Afghanistan with Pakistan’s ports and China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative, potentially transforming regional trade patterns.

Symbolism of the Venue

This is the first time since the Taliban’s return to power that Afghanistan is hosting such a high-level trilateral meeting. Analysts believe that Kabul’s role as host reflects the Taliban administration’s attempt to project itself as a legitimate political actor capable of engaging in international diplomacy.

For Pakistan and China, participating in a Kabul-hosted dialogue highlights their pragmatic approach toward engaging the current Afghan leadership to secure mutual interests.

Chinese Diplomat’s Dual Mission

Following the Kabul dialogue, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will travel to Islamabad to co-chair the sixth Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue on August 21.

This dual mission underscores Beijing’s intent to strengthen both trilateral cooperation and bilateral relations with Pakistan. Wang is also scheduled to hold meetings with senior Taliban leaders to discuss political and economic matters.

Islamabad Round of Talks

In Islamabad, Wang will meet with Ishaq Dar to lead the sixth round of the strategic dialogue. This platform serves as a cornerstone of Pakistan-China relations, focusing on deepening economic, political, and security cooperation.

The fifth round of these talks was held in Beijing in May 2024, where the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to long-term cooperation.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the upcoming dialogue will emphasize the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” a phrase both countries use to highlight the resilience and depth of their bilateral ties.

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

Officials in Islamabad confirmed that Wang’s visit reflects the continuity of high-level exchanges between the two countries. The dialogue will cover issues of mutual concern, including economic cooperation, trade, agriculture, mining, and industrial development.

Both sides are expected to reaffirm support for each other’s core national interests and pledge closer coordination on regional peace and stability.

Broader Regional Implications

The trilateral meeting in Kabul and the strategic dialogue in Islamabad together represent a broader regional push for stronger alignment. For Pakistan, China’s involvement provides both economic opportunities and strategic depth. For Afghanistan, the talks offer a platform to engage with key regional players and secure potential investments.

China, for its part, continues to position itself as a stabilizing force in the region, using diplomacy and economic initiatives to expand its influence.

Path Ahead

The Pakistan-China-Afghanistan dialogue in Kabul, followed by the Islamabad round of talks, marks a critical moment for regional diplomacy. By focusing on counter-terrorism, connectivity, and trade, the three countries aim to move beyond rhetoric and toward actionable cooperation. The outcomes of these meetings could shape the region’s economic and security landscape for years to come.