Afghanistan’s ambitions to establish a direct road link to China through the Wakhan Corridor have resurfaced amidst changing geopolitical dynamics following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. Despite the lack of international recognition, the Taliban government has intensified efforts to strengthen economic ties with regional neighbours, particularly China, which has become a key trade and investment partner. With bilateral trade reaching $1.5 billion in 2022, Kabul is keen on bypassing Pakistan by reviving the historic Silk Road route through the remote Wakhan Corridor, aiming to connect directly with China’s Xinjiang province.

 

However, the realisation of this route faces significant hurdles, mainly due to Beijing’s security concerns regarding potential infiltration by Uyghur militants through this porous border. While the Taliban have accelerated road construction in the Wakhan region, China’s cautious stance remains a significant obstacle. The strategic implications of such a project are profound, as it could reduce Afghanistan’s dependence on Pakistani transit routes and alter the dynamics of regional connectivity, potentially reshaping Central Asia’s logistics landscape.

 

* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

 

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