If Afghanistan joins CPEC, the entwined destinies of the peoples of Pakistan and Afghanistan could bring socioeconomic development, improve bilateral relations and usher peace and stability in the region. This was the focus of my PhD (2017-2021). Though it seemed unlikely then, but a few developments strengthened the hopes.

Firstly, on Sept 8, 2019, in a Pakistan-Afghanistan-China trilateral meeting, construction of Peshawar-Kabul motorway under the banner of China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Plus Cooperation (CAPPC) was agreed to. This aimed at jointly working towards promoting trade and connectivity. It was perceived as a move paving the way for Afghanistan joining CPEC.

Second was the signing of China-Iran comprehensive partnership MoU in 2020. Estimated at $400 billion, and spread over 25 years, it encompassed development of Chabahar through which the Iran-Afghanistan-Central Asia transportation corridor is to be connected to the wider BRI project. It will help in modernising oil and gas sectors, establishment of industrial zones, military........

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