CPEC Expansion Gains Momentum with Focus on Afghan Connectivity
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to diplomacy and multilateralism as the only viable path to resolving global conflicts, highlighting the importance of inclusive dialogue and institutional reform. Speaking to China Daily in New York during Pakistan’s presidency of the UN Security Council, Dar emphasized the weakening global mechanisms and called for collective efforts through platforms like the UN, OIC, SCO, BRICS, and ASEAN to restore peace and stability.
Addressing global unrest in regions such as Gaza, Kashmir, and the Middle East, Dar stressed the urgency of reviving the role of institutions like the UN in upholding international peace. He backed UN reforms and welcomed initiatives led by China, including the International Organization for Mediation and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, which promote conflict resolution and development financing through cooperation rather than confrontation.
P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor
In the realm of Pakistan-China relations, Dar reaffirmed the depth of strategic partnership, calling it "iron brotherhood" and noting their joint efforts in elevating bilateral and multilateral cooperation. During meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, both sides reinforced their commitment to regional economic integration.
At the heart of this regional cooperation lies the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which links Gwadar Port to China’s Xinjiang region. Dar revealed Pakistan’s proposal to extend CPEC into Afghanistan, offering the landlocked country greater access to trade and investment. This move, he argued, would not only enhance connectivity but also promote long-term regional stability.
A recent trilateral meeting involving China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan further solidified this vision, with all parties agreeing to deepen cooperation mechanisms. As Pakistan concluded its term as Security Council president, Dar chaired a landmark session on peaceful dispute resolution, culminating in a unanimous resolution supporting multilateralism.
He underlined the critical role of the Global South in promoting peaceful solutions and emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to collaborative diplomacy. UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed similar sentiments, calling for stronger regional partnerships and collective responsibility in global peacekeeping efforts.