A recent report indicates that while Beijing has not publicly expressed concern, its diplomatic response reveals underlying discomfort.

According to the Politaiya Research Foundation, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to Beijing aimed to secure support for mediation efforts. However, he received only a “cautious and principle-based” response.

The report suggests that this situation indicates that all is not well in China-Pakistan relations. Disagreements, particularly regarding Afghanistan and the United States, are surfacing, affecting the trajectory of their “all-weather” partnership.

Previously, Pakistan had attempted mediation by convening meetings with countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey in Islamabad. However, after failing to achieve concrete results, it turned to China for assistance.

Instead of openly supporting this initiative, China advised Pakistan to first improve its relations with Afghanistan. The report states that China believes a country in conflict with its neighbor cannot act as an impartial mediator.

Furthermore, the report highlights that under the leadership of Asim Munir, Pakistan has overlooked China’s security interests in Afghanistan, prompting Beijing to reassess its regional strategy.

China’s concerns are also linked to its significant investments, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Additionally, China aims to expand its economic and connectivity networks in Afghanistan, which are crucial to its Belt and Road Initiative.

In recent years, China has significantly reduced funding for CPEC, citing concerns over corruption, terrorist attacks on Chinese personnel, and rising instability in Pakistan.

The report notes that Pakistan frequently references CPEC to secure economic support from China, but Beijing is now adopting a more cautious stance.

Experts believe that the evolving circumstances may gradually alter the dynamics of China-Pakistan relations, potentially impacting regional politics and economic cooperation.