Afghanistan Joins Hands with China and Pakistan to Expand the CPEC Project

CPEC Project Expands as Afghanistan Enters Strategic Alliance with China, Pakistan

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: May 22, 2025

Summary: Afghanistan agrees to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), marking a strategic shift in regional cooperation and infrastructure growth.

In a major development, Afghanistan has agreed to expand its cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework. This decision followed a high-level trilateral meeting with leaders from China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, where the focus was on increasing economic linkages and regional growth.

Afghanistan's participation in the CPEC is considered as a strategic shift in its foreign relations, particularly because the project offers significant infrastructure investments, improved trade routes, and increased integration into regional economic networks. The enlarged corridor is expected to benefit Afghanistan by boosting road infrastructure, energy access, and cross-border trade linkages.

Afghanistan was invited to be part of the CPEC by China and Pakistan, who believed it would help stabilize the region and strengthen economic connections. This agreement would not only increase China's presence in the area but also enhance Pakistan's trade relations with Central Asia.

However, this event is likely to have geopolitical tensions. India has long opposed the CPEC, which runs through the disputed territory of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Even with concerns, the three-way meeting focused on working together, economic stability, and shared benefits. More discussions and planning for the expanded CPEC routes through Afghanistan are expected in the next few months.

Afghanistan's participation marks a new chapter in regional connectivity, perhaps paving the path for more diplomatic and economic cooperation in South Asia.