In a significant pledge to bolster regional peace and security, Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating and expanding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), extending its benefits to Afghanistan. This declaration was made by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Munir Akram, during a UN Security Council debate on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organizations in New York.
Ambassador Akram emphasized that implementing connectivity projects through Afghanistan to Central Asia would substantially foster peace and security within Afghanistan and the broader region. He asserted that such initiatives are crucial for the economic integration and stability of these areas.
Reflecting on regional dynamics, Ambassador Akram expressed regret over the quest for regional dominance by a major state, which he said had undermined the potential of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). This, he noted, has hindered the collective progress of South Asian countries.
He called for enhanced regional integration grounded in adherence to UN principles, underscoring the importance of collaboration
between regional and inter-regional initiatives with the United Nations. Such cooperation, he highlighted, is vital for promoting peace, security, and economic development.
Ambassador Akram stressed that fostering greater cooperation and understanding through these projects would not only contribute to the stability of Afghanistan but also benefit the surrounding regions. The expansion of CPEC is seen as a pivotal move towards achieving these goals, offering a pathway to economic growth and improved regional connectivity.
By championing these efforts, Pakistan aims to create a framework for sustainable development and long-term peace, leveraging the potential of regional cooperation and international partnerships.
