China reaffirmed its commitment to preserving cordial ties with the Afghan people on Friday, applauding Russia’s move to become the first nation to formally recognize the Taliban government in Afghanistan.
“The Chinese side has always believed that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community as a traditional friendly neighbor,” Mao Ning, a spokesman for China’s foreign ministry, stated at a news briefing.
After overthrowing the government supported by the West, the Taliban regained control in 2021 and have since enforced a stringent version of Islamic law.
The majority of countries have refused official diplomatic recognition, citing human rights issues and the need for political reforms, despite its attempts to gain international recognition and draw in global investment.
China has hosted a Taliban-appointed ambassador in Beijing and kept diplomatic ties open despite not formally acknowledging the Taliban government.
“No matter how the internal or external situation changes in Afghanistan, diplomatic relations between China and Afghanistan have never been interrupted. The diplomatic institutions of the two sides in each other’s countries have maintained their normal functioning and have played a positive role in promoting the development of relations between the two countries.” Mao said Friday, reiterating Beijing’s consistent diplomatic stance.
Prior to granting the Taliban government full diplomatic recognition, China had previously asked them to enact political changes, strengthen security, and strengthen their relations with their neighbors.
The consequences of decades of violence, including the civil war, the Soviet invasion (1979-1989), and two decades of US-led intervention, is still being felt in Afghanistan.
The Taliban continue to prioritize international recognition in their quest for economic recovery and legitimacy.
