Assessing the Feasibility and Impact of Extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor into Afghanistan

Abstract

This study examines the feasibility and implications of extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, focusing on its geopolitical, economic, and developmental impacts in the post-2021 Taliban-ruled era. Afghanistan’s strategic position as a crossroads between Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East positions it as a potential hub for trade, energy transit, and regional integration under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The analysis highlights Afghanistan’s growing interest in CPEC as a pathway to economic recovery through infrastructure development, access to regional markets, and foreign investment . However, challenges such as ethnic fragmentation, security instability, governance deficits, and geopolitical rivalries (e.g., U.S.-India strategic interests and Russian caution) complicate implementation . The study advocates for a phased, modular approach prioritizing pilot projects in stable provinces like Balkh and Nangarhar, coupled with inclusive governance and multilateral cooperation to mitigate risks . While CPEC’s extension offers transformative potential for Afghanistan’s post-conflict reconstruction and China’s BRI ambitions, success hinges on balancing infrastructure investments with diplomacy, security coordination, and community engagement.