Archive · 21 May 2025
China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan Agree on Economic Corridor Expansion
China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed to expand the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
This involves extending infrastructure projects into Afghanistan to boost trade and connectivity.
India opposes this, as CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The countries also discussed deepening cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which is China’s global infrastructure program.
Additionally, Pakistan has extended airspace closures for Indian flights for another month following heightened tensions.
This comes after military actions between India and Pakistan.
China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed to extend CPEC into Afghanistan.
India has expressed concerns regarding CPEC's expansion.
The trilateral meeting also included discussions on the Belt and Road Initiative.
Pakistan extended the closure of its airspace to Indian flights by another month.
The moves come after recent tensions and military actions between India and Pakistan.
- Who
- China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan's foreign ministers
- What
- Agreement to extend CPEC, deepening cooperation, and airspace restrictions.
- When
- Meeting held on May 20, 2025; report published May 21, 2025
- Where
- Beijing
- Why
- To deepen trade, improve regional connectivity, and enhance cooperation, as well as address shared security concerns.
China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan's Stance
India's Stance
CPEC Expansion
China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan's Stance
Aiming to boost Afghanistan’s economy and improve connectivity; expanding BRI cooperation
India's Stance
Concerns over infringement on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Regional Security
China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan's Stance
Underscored shared commitment to countering terrorism and fostering stability and development.
India's Stance
Security challenges associated with the China-Pakistan-Afghanistan axis.
- Date of Report
- May 21, 2025
- Meeting Location
- Beijing
- CPEC Scope
- Extension into Afghanistan
- Countries Involved in Trilateral Meeting
- India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan
- Next Trilateral Meeting
- Early, mutually convenient date
Sources
India, Pakistan DGMOs hold 'routine' hotline talks
China-Pakistan economic corridor to expand into Afghanistan: Why it matters for India
China, Pakistan agree with Taliban to expand Economic Corridor into Afghanistan
Satellite images show China ramped up Pakistan dam work in late 2024
Pakistan to extend airspace closure for Indian flights by another month: Report
Pakistan, China agree to deepen trade, maintain close communication
