Muttaqi Meets with China and Pakistan Foreign Ministers in Beijing

Muttaqi emphasized expanding bilateral relations, strengthening economic cooperation, and removing trade barriers. He described China as one of Afghanistan’s key economic partners and highlighted plans to boost trade soon58.

Trilateral Dialogue on Infrastructure and Regional Connectivity

During the informal trilateral meeting, the ministers discussed enhancing diplomatic engagement, launching joint infrastructure projects, and advancing China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). A major highlight was the agreement to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan to improve regional connectivity and development239.

Commitment to Good Neighborliness and Mutual Respect

The foreign ministers of China and Pakistan assured Afghanistan of further development of relations based on good neighborliness and mutual respect. They agreed to increase trade and facilitate transit among the three countries, reinforcing a cooperative regional framework58.

Upcoming Sixth Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kabul

It was agreed to hold the sixth formal meeting of the Afghanistan-China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue soon in Kabul. Experts view this as a positive step to enhance Afghanistan’s role in regional diplomacy and economic interactions52.

Analysts Welcome Expanded Regional Engagement

Political analysts welcomed the meetings, emphasizing the importance of expanding Afghanistan’s interactions with regional and trans-regional countries. They noted such engagements build confidence internationally that the Afghan government seeks constructive relations5.

Muttaqi’s Broader Regional Outreach

Earlier this week, Muttaqi also traveled to Iran for the Tehran Dialogue Forum, where he discussed expanding political and economic ties with senior Iranian officials, signaling Afghanistan’s intent to broaden its regional cooperation beyond China and Pakistan5