Photo : South China Morning Post
NIAS Area Studies
PAKISTAN READER
Photo : South China Morning Post
China-Pakistan-Afghanistan Foreign Ministers meeting in Beijing
What is the background, and what did they discuss?
Femy Francis
On 21 May, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi held an informal trilateral meeting in Beijing with his counterparts from Pakistan and Afghanistan, Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. The highlight of the meeting was the call for the expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
What is the regional background?
First, the meeting comes in light of the military standoff between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam attacks, which killed 26 Indian civilians. This led to a series of escalations and military confrontations, with the eventual ceasefire between the two countries. One of the major highlights of the tensions was the arms supply by China to Pakistan. According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), China accounts for 81 per cent of Pakistan's arms imports from 2020 and 2024. In addition to supplying unmanned aerial and combat aerial vehicles, China also supplied SH-15 truck-mounted howitzer guns stationed near the LAC, and also set up communication towers near Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the LAC. Additionally, the Pakistan army uses China-made telecom gear, “Ultra Set,” exclusively made for Pakistan.
Second, India-Afghanistan diplomatic call. India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar held a telephone conversation with Muttaqi. Jaishakar affirmed that India will take concrete steps to establish stronger ties with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Additionally, India will provide humanitarian aid and assistance to refugees from Afghanistan who were forcefully repatriated from Pakistan. The “Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan” deported 80,000 Afghans living in Pakistan as they were made to return to their country of origin.
Why CPEC and Afghanistan?
China and Pakistan are calling for an upgradation from CPEC 0.1 to CPEC 0.2, which now aims to expand the CPEC to Afghanistan. Wang Yi and Ishaq Dar agreed that the upgraded version will focus on cooperation in areas of agriculture, energy, mining, and security. CPEC is one of the flagship projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was launched in 2015, which aimed to connect China’s Xinjiang region to Pakistan’s Gwadar port through roads and railways. Afghanistan signed the Belt and Road Initiative in 2016. The same year, the first Chinese train traveled from China to Afghanistan’s port city of Hairatan. This kickstarted the Sino-Afghanistan Special Railway Transportation Project, to no avail. In 2023, Taliban’s Commerce Minister Haji Nooruddin Azizi urged China’s President Xi Jinping to let Afghanistan join in CPEC. Azizi noted that Afghanistan can offer China coveted mineral resources. He said: “China, which invests all over the world, should also invest in Afghanistan. We have everything they need, such as lithium, copper, and iron.”
It is reckoned that Afghanistan has mineral resources worth USD 1 trillion, mostly untapped. Currently, there are some Chinese firms actively engaging with Afghanistan, where China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (CPEIC) is involved in the oil extraction from the Amu Darya basin. China’s The Metallurgical Corp of China Ltd (MCC) aims to invest in the mining sector and is currently in talks with the Taliban to open a copper mine. As of now, Pakistan is Afghanistan’s largest trading partner, with China and India being second and third, respectively. Since this meeting, the three heads of state have not ratified anything on their plans for CPEC expansion.
What are the terrorism concerns?
The three heads of state agreed on the need to promote counter-terrorism initiatives. They agreed to oppose all forms of terrorism. Wang Yi stated that they will engage in security cooperation and remain “vigilant against external interference in regional countries' internal affairs.” Wang Yi noted that all three countries need to enhance political mutual trust and support friendly relations in the neighborhood. Engineers, envoys, and other Chinese nationals are often targeted by militant groups in Pakistan, often seen as an extension of the government and establishment. Pakistan has time and again expressed concerns regarding Afghanistan’s involvement with Pakistan’s militant groups and for acting as a safe haven for these terrorist groups like Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, who are known to have Taliban support. The militant group Balochistan Liberation Army, accused of several recent terrorist attacks, has sanctuaries in Afghanistan. Muttaqi, during this meeting, vowed to give full support for counter-terrorism activities.
What else happened in Beijing?
On the sidelines Wang Yi and Ishaq Dar agreed to upgrade the CPEC collaboration in areas of energy, mining, counter-terrorism, and security. They also announced that the sixth trilateral foreign ministers meeting will be held in Kabul. On the meeting, Ishaq Dar said that they: “reaffirmed trilateral cooperation as a vital platform to promote regional security and economic connectivity.” Wang Yi noted that: “Afghanistan and Pakistan expressed clear willingness to elevate diplomatic relations and agreed in principle to exchange ambassadors as soon as possible.” Muttaqi affirmed that Afghanistan is willing to strengthen security cooperation and uphold regional stability with China and Pakistan.
The meeting, though, did not come out with a ratified agreement and plan on how to go forward with the trilateral cooperation. It did bring Pakistan and Afghanistan together, as ties soured after the repatriation act, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of abetting militant groups. The meeting also showcases China’s new role as a regional unifier, bringing countries together to forge economic ties. China yet again brokered cooperation between tense neighbours, a step towards normalization of ties after strained relations.
References:
“Chinese, Afghan, Pakistani FMs hold informal meeting in Beijing,” Global Times, 21 May 2025
“Trilateral cooperation: CPEC to be extended to Afghanistan,” Business Recorder, 22 May 2025
“Beijing breakthrough: Afghanistan and Pakistan to upgrade diplomatic relations,” Tehran Times, 21 May 2025
“China makes Taliban regime, Islamabad agree on ties upgrade,” Dawn, 22 May 2025
In Focus
PM to visit Iran, Turkey and Azerbaijan
On 23 May, The News International reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on a diplomatic tour with the nations. The Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Turkey and Azerbaijan from May 26 to May 29 May. High level delegation team will be accompanying the PM including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for planning, Development and special Initiatives Ahan Iqbal, and senior officials from the Ministry of foreign Affairs.
The diplomatic sources of the embassies of the three countries said that on 25 May PM Shehbaz will begin the tour from Tehran, where he will meet senior Iranian leaders. During these meetings PM is expected to brief the Iranian Leadership on Pakistan’s military response to the recent unprovoked attacks on several cities and key facilities. The next visit will be on 26 May in Turkey and he had scheduled his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on May 27. On the last day of the tour, he will be meeting Prime Minister Baku on 28 May and the discussions will be held with the President of Azerbaijan and senior cabinet members. The major agenda is to include recent tensions between India and Pakistan while focussing on regional peace and cooperation. ( “Regional security: PM led delegation to visit Iran, Turkiye, Azerbaijan from 25th-29th,” The News International 23 May 2025)
PTI divided over Gen Asim Munir’s promotion
On 23 May, Dawn reported a split within PTI over the promotion of COAS Asim Munir to field marshal. Interim PTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan publicly congratulated Munir, while party founder Imran Khan, from Adiala Jail, criticised the move, stating Asim Munir had been declared ‘king’ as Pakistan was being run according to the ‘law of the jungle’. His comments were posted on his X account, managed by unidentified handlers, following meetings with lawyers and family on 21 May. In contrast, Gohar, after visiting Khan in jail, expressed hope that the promotion would come with a greater sense of responsibility for national stability. Speaking to the media, he emphasized the need to normalise the country’s situation and reiterated PTI’s support for the armed forces. Meanwhile, PTI leader Aleema Khan distanced the party from Gohar’s remarks, insisting they were personal opinions and not reflective of the party’s view. She reiterated that only the founder represents the party’s stance. (Ikram Junaidi, “Army chief’s elevation to field marshal splits PTI,” Dawn, 23 May 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Army command vows decisive action against alleged Indian terror proxies
On 23 May, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan’s top military commanders, chaired by field Marshal Asim Munir, pledged to dismantle all terror proxies and facilitators threatening national peace. The 270th corps commanders’ conference, held at GHQ, condemned the recent Khuzdar attack and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to counter foreign sponsored terrorism, particularly alleged India backed nonstate actors in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. India was accused of intensifying covert destabilisation after military setbacks like the Pahalgam incident. They vowed to eliminate hostile elements trained to spread chaos, calling the Khuzdar attack a barbaric violation of humanity. (“Army top brass vows to decimate terror proxies, facilitators,” The Express Tribune, 23 May 2025)
PDAA to regulate the digital assets
On 22 May, Dawn reported the Ministry of Finance's announcement to implement a comprehensive strategy for regulating digital assets and growing the virtual assets economy. A new regulatory body called the Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA) will be established based on the recommendations of the Pakistan Cryptocurrency Council (PCC), which will guide the cryptocurrency industry. The PDAA is expected to enhance innovation, economic inclusion, and the responsible adoption of digital assets aligned with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. The finance minister and PCC Chairman stated, "Pakistan must regulate not just to catch up, but to lead. With the PDAA, we are creating a future-ready framework that protects consumers, invites global investment, and positions Pakistan at the forefront of financial innovation.” The PDAA will focus on regulating the informal crypto market, enabling blockchain-based representation of national assets, providing legal clarity for investors, and encouraging young entrepreneurs to build blockchain-based startups for scalable solutions. This initiative signals Pakistan's intention to be an important player in the global digital economy. Bilal Bin Saqib, the CEO of the PCC, emphasised that the goals extend beyond crypto; he highlighted the importance of financial inclusion and promoting Web3 innovation. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt sets up digital assets authority as per FATF requirement,” Dawn, 22 May 2025)
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s Economic Reforms and Funding Talks
On 23 May, Dawn reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegate Jihad Azour visited Islamabad for a week-long talk with the Pakistani government. During the talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his government's priority to accelerate institutional reforms and maintain macroeconomic stability. The Prime Minister stressed the transformation of Pakistan from economic recovery to sustainable growth. The discussions dwelled on the imposition of agricultural income tax, widening the tax net, financial devolution, and enhanced provincial contributions toward national security. Pakistan proposed modest relief measures in the forthcoming budget, such as a reduction in super tax, incentives for the real estate sector, and relief for the salaried class. The IMF assessed these proposals in the context of revenue targets and expenditures and aimed to finalise the upcoming fiscal year's budget under the 7 billion USD Extended Fund Facility. Separately, the Prime Minister met with the World Bank delegation led by Anna Bjerde. The Prime Minister expressed his goodwill that the World Bank's Country Partnership Framework would result in over 20 billion USD in development investment, aligning with Pakistan's development priorities. (Khaleeq Kiani, "PM Shehbaz pledges swift reforms, resolves to benefit from World Bank help," Dawn, 23 May 2025)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan declares a Africa Friendship Day
On 23 May, Dawn reported that the Senate unanimously declared 25 May as Pakistan-Africa Friendship Day, a proposal put forward by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. This resolution aims to strengthen bilateral ties in trade, culture, education, and technology. The session was attended by African ambassadors and high commissioners. Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan's contribution to peacekeeping in Africa, particularly in Rwanda, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. He expressed Pakistan's interest in increasing trade in textiles, pharmaceuticals, sports goods, and IT services, noting that the country's digital training programs align with Africa's digital transformation agenda. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf parliamentary leader Syed Ali Zafar described Africa as "a continent of youth, values, and vision," and suggested establishing an annual Pakistan–Africa Cultural Festival to celebrate their shared heritage. Additionally, the report condemned the recent attack in Khuzdar, attributing it to alleged Indian proxies. (Iftikhar A khan, “May 25 declared as Pakistan-Africa Friendship Day,” Dawn, 23 May 2025)
SECURITY
Balochistan school bus bombing- Pakistan alleges Indian-backed proxies of terror attacks
On 22 May, media outlets including Dawn and The News International reported on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's response to the school bus bombing that took place on the Zero Point on the Quetta-Karachi highway in Khuzdar on 21 May. The alleged suicide bombing of the Army Public School bus had killed three female students and two soldiers. PM Sharif along with Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited Quetta. Following the visit to Quetta, PM Sharif issued a statement accusing “state-sponsored proxies of India (Fitna al Hindustan)” and proxies in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of orchestrating the attack, although no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan has levelled several unfounded accusations of Indian involvement in the attack, with the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement on 21 May accusing India of using "terrorism as a state policy" while other officials chimed in. "At least 21 training camps under the patronage of the Indian government are operational in Rajasthan state of India," The News International cited an unverified source.
Additionally, The News International claimed that over 300 terror attacks have taken place in Balochistan in the last 25 years, narrating a list of nearly 30 terror incidents in Balochistan since 2009. The report follows the school bus bombing in Khuzdar and the Jaffar Express train hijacking by the Balochistan Liberation Army on March 11, which Pakistan alleges was carried out by Indian proxies. ("PM vows strong action against perpetrators after school bus blast in Khuzdar," Dawn, 22 May 2025; "Three schoolgirls among five martyred in suicide attack on APS bus in Khuzdar," The News International, 22 May 2025; "Over 300 terror incidents have struck Balochistan during last 25 years," The News International, 22 May 2025)
"Development, representation and justice must go hand in hand with security operations or this cycle will continue," says an editorial in The News International
On 22 May, an editorial in The News International titled "Terror is terror" staunchly condemned the terror attack on the Army Public School bus in Khuzdar. The editorial noted that the attack has undermined the political ideologies of the separatist cause in Balochistan, where the government alleged "Indian-backed proxies operating under the guise of separatist causes" and the Balochistan Liberation Army for the attack. The editorial also highlighted that "there was a time when political engagement helped dial down violence in Balochistan," calling for "dialogue and genuine representation" as solutions to the violence. The editorial underscores the need for political engagement with the people of Balochistan to mitigate the crisis. ("Terror is terror," The News International, 22 May 2025)
"...without a political solution to decades-old grievances, a sustainable counterinsurgency strategy cannot be formulated," says an editorial in Dawn
On 22 May, an editorial titled "Khuzdar atrocity" urged Pakistan to pursue a "rational course," unlike India in its claims against Pakistan's involvement in Pahalgam by sharing any evidence of India's involvement in the APB school bus bombing incident with the international community. The editorial calls for the national parties of Balochistan to come together, for a reconciliation process "involving non-violent political elements that agree to work within the bounds of the Constitution." ("Khuzdar atrocity," Dawn, 22 May 2025)
SOCIETY
Zahir Jaffer sentenced to death for Noor Mukadam murder
On 22 May, Dawn reported that the Supreme Court of Pakistan upheld the death sentence for Zahir Jaffer in the murder case of Noor Mukadam. The court commuted the death sentence for rape to life imprisonment. The kidnapping sentence was reduced from 10 years to one year. The case has been long delayed, highlighting issues of judicial sluggishness. Noor’s death was a preventable tragedy, with many people aware of her situation but failing to act. This highlighted the systemic failures in protecting victims of gender-based violence, calling for urgent reforms in the judicial system to ensure timely justice. The verdict marked an essential step but also a reminder of the broader challenges in addressing violence against women in Pakistan. (“Justice for Noor,” Dawn, 22 May 2025)
CHINA
Afghanistan to be included in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, says Ministry of Foreign Affairs
On 22 May, The News International reported that Islamabad and Beijing have decided to include Afghanistan in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This came after Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the Foreign Minister in Taliban government of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi sat down for a discussion in Beijing on 21 May. As per the Foreign Office of Pakistan, the three ministers have expressed their commitment to emphasize upon “trilateral cooperation” for enhancing “regional security and economic connectivity.” The three leaders also delved into the future directions for enhancing trade ties. The three ministers have also highlighted their common resolve towards combating terrorism and establishing regional “stability.” The Foreign Office Pakistan informed that the “6th Trilateral Foreign Ministers Meeting” would take place in Kabul as per the convenience of the three leaders. Dar and Muttaqi also had a separate discussion in Beijing. The two ministers acknowledged the “positive momentum” in Pak-Afghanistan ties and appreciated the increase in “diplomatic engagement and trade.”
(Asim Yasin, “Beijing meeting: Pakistan, China agree to extend CPEC to Afghanistan,” Dawn, 22 May 2025)
Islamabad and Kabul decide to swap envoys for enhancing bilateral ties
On 21 May, Islamabad and Kabul decided to enhance their “diplomatic” ties through “exchanging” envoys. This was agreed upon after Foreign Ministers of Afghanistan, Pakistan and China met for a “trilateral” discussion in Beijing. The push for discussion came from China to bring down the “tensions” in the region and enhance “connectivity” via the Belt and Road Initiative. Foreign Minister Wang Yi appreciated the recent development and has pledged to furnish all the support for the betterment of Pakistan-Afghanistan ties. Afghanistan continues to face diplomatic isolation from the rest of the world. However, China, UAE and Russia have ensured their diplomatic engagement continues with the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Previously, there had been a surge in tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Islamabad has continually blamed the Taliban government for not acting upon the anti-Pakistan militant groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan which continue to operate from Afghanistan.
(Baqir Sajjad Syed, “China makes Taliban regime, Islamabad agree on ties upgrade,” Dawn, 22 May 2025)
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