ISLAMABAD: In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan and China havejointly called for more visible and verifiable actions to dismantle andeliminate all terrorist organisations operating from Afghan soil. Thisstern message emerged from a joint communique issued following the seventhround of the Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue held inBeijing, raising concerns over ongoing threats to regional stability andsecurity that could undermine years of counter-terrorism efforts.
The dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign MinisterIshaq Dar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, underscored the persistentdanger posed by militant groups in Afghanistan. Both nations expressedalarm that these organisations continue to threaten not only neighbouringcountries but also global peace, prompting questions about theeffectiveness of current measures in Kabul and the potential for escalatedcross-border tensions.
Experts note that Pakistan has long accused groups like theTehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan of using Afghan territory for attacks, withrecent years seeing a surge in incidents. The joint statement highlights ashared frustration, as similar calls for action have been made in previousbilateral and multilateral forums, yet tangible progress remains limited,leaving regional stakeholders anxious about future security implications.
During the talks, which took place on January 4 after Dar’s arrival inBeijing, the two sides reaffirmed their all-weather strategic cooperativepartnership. They pledged to deepen counter-terrorism cooperation, ensuringthe safe advancement of initiatives like the China-Pakistan EconomicCorridor, which has faced security challenges due to militant activities inthe region.
The communique emphasised zero tolerance for terrorism in all its forms,with China commending Pakistan’s comprehensive measures to protect Chinesepersonnel and projects. This mutual support extends to broader securitycollaboration, as both countries view terrorism as a common threat thatcould derail economic and developmental goals across South and Central Asia.
On the Afghan issue specifically, Pakistan and China agreed to maintainclose coordination with the international community. They urged the Afghanauthorities to establish an inclusive political framework, adopt moderatepolicies, prioritise economic development, and foster good-neighbourlyrelations to facilitate Afghanistan’s integration into the global community.
This call aligns with ongoing regional dynamics, where tensions betweenPakistan and Afghanistan have periodically flared, including borderskirmishes and accusations of harbouring militants. The emphasis onverifiable actions suggests a demand for concrete steps, such asdismantling training camps and preventing cross-border incursions, to buildtrust among neighbours.
The dialogue also marked the beginning of celebrations for the 75thanniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China in 2026.Both sides unveiled a commemorative logo and announced a series ofinitiatives to strengthen people-to-people ties, cultural exchanges, andcooperation in emerging fields, reinforcing their ironclad friendship.
In addition to security concerns, the discussions covered enhancingstrategic communication, trade liberalisation under the China-Pakistan FreeTrade Agreement, and upgrading the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor withfocus on growth, innovation, and green development corridors aligned withPakistan’s economic framework.
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Multilateral coordination featured prominently, with China expressing fullsupport for Pakistan’s upcoming rotating presidency of the ShanghaiCooperation Organisation in 2026-2027. Both nations reiterated commitmentto the United Nations Charter, multilateralism, and opposition tounilateralism, highlighting their aligned positions on global issues.
The joint communique reflects a maturing partnership that prioritises notonly bilateral gains but also regional peace. By publicly pressing foraction against Afghan-based terrorism, Pakistan and China signal a unifiedstance that could influence broader international engagement with Kabul,potentially shaping counter-terrorism strategies in the coming year.
As 2026 unfolds with anniversary celebrations, the emphasis on securitycooperation underscores the pragmatic foundation of Pakistan-Chinarelations. Amid evolving geopolitical challenges, this dialogue serves as areminder that enduring partnerships are built on addressing shared threatshead-on, ensuring stability for future generations.
Source:https://www.dawn.com/news/1965240/pakistan-china-call-for-more-visible-verifiable-actions-to-eliminate-terrorist-groups-based-in-afghanistan
Tags: Pakistan, China, Afghanistan, Ishaq Dar, Wang Yi, CPEC,Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan
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