Trilateral Foreign Ministers Dialogue Strengthens Cooperation Against Terrorism and Security Concerns

Strategic Insights -

The sixth Trilateral Foreign Ministers Dialogue held in Kabul brought together Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi for discussions on political, economic, and security cooperation. The meeting focused on joint efforts against terrorism, trade, transit, health, education, culture, and drug control, and reaffirmed commitment to expanding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. The talks followed a meeting between Dar and Wang Yi in Islamabad, which reaffirmed the 'All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership' between Pakistan and China. China's evolving posture now includes playing an active role in regional stability, with considerable stakes in the region. However, tangible change is necessary to address the challenges faced by Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Trilateral Foreign Ministers Dialogue aimed to strengthen cooperation against terrorism, expand trade, and enhance economic ties between Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan.
  • The meeting reaffirmed commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) expansion into Afghanistan and stressed the importance of joint efforts against terrorism.
  • The discussion also highlighted the need for closer coordination in multilateral forums and regional peace and prosperity.
  • China's willingness to play an active role in regional stability has increased its stakes in the region.
  • Pakistan has suffered a relentless wave of cross-border terrorism since the fall of Kabul in 2021, with 82 militant attacks in July alone, killing 101 people and injuring 150.
  • The Afghan Taliban's promises at diplomatic tables have been hollow, and concrete measures against militant groups are necessary for regional stability.
  • FM Dar and Wang Yi emphasized the need for security cooperation and called for "concrete and verifiable" measures against terrorist groups.
  • China's involvement can push Kabul towards accountability, and regional cooperation can begin to flourish when the Taliban regime delivers on its promises.

Statistics:

  • 82 militant attacks occurred in July 2023, killing 101 people and injuring 150 (Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies).
  • The TTP and BLA have targeted Pakistani civilians, security personnel, and Chinese nationals linked to CPEC projects.
  • India's funding and enabling of proxies such as the TTP and BLA has been widely acknowledged.
  • The Afghan Taliban has allowed militants to operate with impunity, undermining security and economic cooperation.

Sources:

  • Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies