Ishaq Dar calls China visit ‘extraordinary and strategic’

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described his recent visit to China as “extraordinary” rather than routine, emphasising its strategic significance, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel.

Upon returning, he briefed journalists in Islamabad on Thursday, revealing that high-level interactions took place with both the Communist Party of China and Chinese ministers.

Dar disclosed that the meetings in China were not limited to bilateral discussions but also included important trilateral engagements involving China, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.

Delegates included China’s additional secretary, Afghanistan’s additional secretary, and Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Sadiq Khan.

He further noted that these discussions were follow-ups to key decisions made earlier on April 19 in Kabul, all of which have now been fully implemented.

The recent meetings, he added, delved deep into strategic matters, demonstrating high levels of mutual understanding.

On Wednesday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office confirmed that Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi participated in a trilateral meeting in Beijing.

The Foreign Office spokesman stated that the three ministers engaged in a wide-ranging and constructive dialogue to enhance communication, cooperation, and mutual trust.

The ministers reaffirmed the importance of the trilateral platform to promote regional peace and development while advancing strategic regional connectivity.

They acknowledged recent improvements in Afghanistan’s security situation and recognised strong economic linkages and infrastructure connectivity as essential to long-term growth and prosperity.

During the meeting, Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering close, cooperative relations with Afghanistan, particularly in areas of trade, transit, healthcare, and regional linkages.

Both China and Pakistan restated their intent to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

China expressed its support for both Pakistan and Afghanistan in upholding their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity.

All three sides agreed that the eradication of terrorism and foreign threats is vital for achieving their shared economic and connectivity goals.

They also reaffirmed their united stance against terrorism in all forms and agreed to enhance joint security cooperation to safeguard peace and stability in the region.

It was mutually decided that the sixth Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Meeting will be hosted in Kabul at a mutually convenient date in the near future.

Reporter: Anwar Abbas