China supports extension of CPEC into Afghanistan

China is willing to extend the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Hua Chunying said during her regular briefing.

“China supports the extension of CPEC to Afghanistan, which will bring more BRI benefits to the Afghan people. China is also pleased to see the Gwadar port, among other CPEC projects, plays a positive role in this process and stands ready to work together with Pakistan and Afghanistan in this regard,” said the Chinese spokesperson.

China has also expressed delight over the resumption of trade ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

“China applauds the endeavors of Pakistan and Afghanistan to overcome difficulties caused by COVID-19 and resume trade and personnel exchange recently. As a neighbor and friend of both countries, China looks forward to improvement of relations between and economic development in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and stands ready to play a constructive role to this end.”

According to experts, Pakistan’s decision to open routes for Afghan trade is positive step and the CPECunder the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) can greatly enhance regional connectivity and link Pakistan with Central Asia via Afghanistan.