Kabul-Islamabad tensions raise concerns over CPEC’s future

KABUL: The Pakistani newspaper “The Express Tribune” has expressed concerns over the closure of routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, describing this as a threat to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, which undermines its feasibility. Economic experts quoted in the article warn that if the closure of routes between the two countries continues, this significant project for regional connectivity and economic cooperation may lose its practical viability. According to the article, China seeks to extend CPEC into Afghanistan to connect the country with regional markets and open new trade routes. However, the ongoing closure of routes between Pakistan and Afghanistan by 2025 raises serious doubts about the implementation of this plan. The article notes that the closure of routes with Afghanistan not only causes severe economic losses but also negatively impacts Pakistan’s international credibility. The Tribune highlights comments by economic analysts, indicating that if Pakistan connects China with Afghanistan and Central Asia through CPEC, it must establish mechanisms to protect against ongoing trade and political pressures. Analysts emphasize that CPEC is not just an economic project but also a reflection of Pakistan’s regional role, trust, and credibility. The current situation indicates that practical steps and sustained border stability are crucial for the extension of CPEC into Afghanistan.