On August 20, 2025, while the trilateral meeting among Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China was still in process, Pak Asia Youth Forum hosted an insightful SpaceX session titled “Corridors of Convergence: CPEC, Connectivity, and Counter-Terrorism in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-China Dialogue.” The session focused on how cooperation among the three countries could be enhanced in light of the ongoing meeting’s objectives. Moderated by Fatima Waheed, the session featured two speakers: Mr. Israr Madni, Director of the International Council for Religious Affairs ( IRCRA ), and Mr. Wahidullah Ghazikhail, Director at the Center for Studies and Research.
Highlights from Mr. Israr Madni
Economic Integration and Regional Connectivity
Mr. Madni stressed the significance of extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to include Afghanistan. He highlighted how this extension would greatly improve transportation and trade links between the three countries, catalysing broader regional economic growth and cooperation.
Stability and Growth through Collaboration
He emphasized that fostering deeper collaboration among Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China is key to promoting stability and economic development. Despite existing obstacles, Mr. Madni underlined that stronger mutual economic ties could help overcome political challenges and enhance bilateral relations.
Separating Business from Politics at the Border
Mr. Madni pointed out the ongoing political tensions since 2001 affecting border trade, urging that business and trade initiatives should not be compromised by political disputes. He emphasized the need for pragmatic approaches to safeguard and encourage cross-border economic activity.
Chinese Mediation and Committee Proposal
He proposed the formation of a committee to oversee economic and security cooperation, advocating for China to serve as mediator or supervisor given its positive ties with both Pakistan and Afghanistan. Mr. Madni identified the Chinese collaboration model as an effective framework for advancing regional peace and development.
Counter-Terrorism and Border Security
Mr. Madni addressed the importance of coordinated counter-terrorism efforts, particularly against the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He emphasized the necessity of joint operations, improved border surveillance, and stricter management to curb smuggling and maintain security.
Infrastructure Connectivity via Wakhan and Gwadar Port
He advocated linking Afghanistan to regional infrastructure projects through routes like Wakhan, combined with gateway access via the Gwadar deep-sea port. This integration would provide mutual benefits by fully incorporating Afghanistan into the CPEC framework.
Highlights from Mr. Wahidullah Ghazikhail
Economic Integration as a Pathway to Prosperity
Mr. Ghazikhail reinforced the importance of economic integration among Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China. He highlighted that connectivity through shared projects and corridors is fundamental for fostering regional prosperity and cooperation.
Overcoming Obstacles through Pragmatic Cooperation
He acknowledged various challenges the three countries face but urged pragmatic collaboration to move beyond political differences and strengthen economic ties. Mr. Ghazikhail emphasized that mutual benefits depend on sustained engagement and practical solutions.
China’s Role as Mediator and Coordinator
Supporting the idea of a joint committee, he underlined China’s crucial position in mediating and supervising initiatives related to both economic and security cooperation. According to him, China’s balanced relations make it ideally suited to foster trilateral coordination.
Urgency of Counter-Terrorism Collaboration
Mr. Ghazikhail stressed that coordinated counter-terrorism measures are essential in addressing cross-border security threats, including trafficking and smuggling. He highlighted the importance of joint security efforts to enhance peace and stability in the region.
Strategic Infrastructure for Connectivity and Trade
He underscored the strategic value of linking Afghanistan through the Wakhan corridor and Gwadar port infrastructure projects, describing these as critical elements for enhancing regional trade, transportation, and long-term connectivity.
Key Takeaways
The session made clear that extending CPEC, boosting regional economic integration, advancing coordinated counter-terrorism efforts, and embracing pragmatic, China-mediated dialogue are vital steps toward peace and prosperity in South Asia. Overcoming political hurdles through collaboration and connectivity will be key to unlocking the promising potential of this trilateral partnership.
The session concluded with closing remarks from the Moderator, who thanked the speakers for their valuable insights and reaffirmed the Pak Asia Youth Forum’s ongoing commitment to facilitating constructive dialogue for regional peace and cooperation.
