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Senior government representatives from Pakistan and China discussed Monday how to expand the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan in order to advance prosperity and economic growth.

Ambassador Yue Xiaoyong, China"s special representative for Afghanistan, met with Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood. The political and security situation in Afghanistan was discussed, as well as Pakistan"s and China"s humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and other topics of shared interest.

In order to alleviate the financial burdens of the Afghan people and support the development of a sustainable economy, the foreign secretary further emphasised the significance of defrosting Afghanistan"s foreign reserves and facilitating banking operations.

The foreign secretary emphasised once more how crucial it was for Afghanistan to meet the demands of the international community in terms of inclusivity, respect for all Afghans" rights, particularly girls" education, and effective counterterrorism measures.

The foreign secretary emphasised that, notwithstanding what is happening elsewhere, the international community"s attention should not be taken away from the catastrophic situation in Afghanistan. The foreign secretary emphasised the importance of ongoing constructive engagement and practical collaboration with the interim Afghan authorities while also highlighting the crucial role that organisations like Troika Plus and the Six Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan play in advancing common objectives.

Ambassador Yue Xiaoyong was grateful for Pakistan"s significant and positive contribution to the Afghan situation. Only a peaceful, stable, and connected Afghanistan could serve as a hub for improved regional trade and connectivity, according to both sides.