China's Greater Role in Afghanistan in Post-Withdrawal Environment
Fakhar alam2021, Spotlight
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Abstract
China paid close attention to the changing political and security conditions of Afghanistan during the military exit of the United States from the war-torn country. Amid the fragile peace negotiation and with the collapse of Ashraf Ghani's regime, the country invited a lot of attention from the region as well as from the entire world. China also showed its concerns over the changed scenario and so vowed its pledge to respect and support the political settlement between the Taliban and other political stakeholders in Kabul. China showed utmost support to the peace process among the Afghan stakeholders and now also desires to work for the reconstruction and stability of Afghanistan long with other regional and global contenders. China does not have any historical baggage in Afghanistan and it has never sided with any of the factions or interfered in the internal political matters therein. Therefore, China can confidently partner with any of the future government(s) of Afghanistan. Moreover, Beijing's decentralised diplomatic approach is always acknowledged by stakeholders in Afghanistan. China's role in Afghanistan would also be compatible with the other neighbours of Afghanistan, especially Pakistan and the Central Asian Republics (CARs).
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Afghanistan and the Peoples' Republic of China
What made bilateral relations deepened? Abdul Naser Noorzad, lecturer at Kabul university Afghanistan and the People's Republic of China have had good political, economic and cultural relations from the old era to today. In general, this importance is influenced by economic and political exchanges that shape relations between these two countries (Center for Strategic Studies). Considering the geopolitical situation in Afghanistan and the threats and opportunities posed by this situation, the importance of this country has increased for the People's Republic of China and a number of factors are contributing to the development of these relations. Strengthening the spirit of convergence in the region in foreign policy of both countries have been one of the important factors of the development of these relations. Today, regional cooperation for economic development and addressing the security challenges as a global crisis in the region and the world are among the most important foreign policy requirements of each country. Afghanistan has put regional cooperation at the top of its foreign policy agenda after a decade-long isolation period (1990s-2000) after the fall of the Taliban. Meanwhile, regional cooperation means the establishment of ties with the countries of the region, which is important for the region and as whole for Afghanistan. In this regard, China is undoubtedly of great importance to Afghanistan (Center for Strategic Studies). China, in its strategic and long-term perspective, sees Afghanistan as the centerpiece of Central and South Asia, and sees its security and stability as a major contributor to China's security and economic growth. One point cannot be ruled out that both countries are looking at each other in spite of friendly relations, and this is a commonplace in foreign policy of the countries.
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The resurgence of the Taliban prompted China to reconsider its approach towards Afghanistan, striking a balance between safeguarding its economic interests and pursuing strategic objectives while simultaneously grappling with security concerns. While the rise of the Taliban poses security challenges, China recognizes the potential for economic cooperation, particularly in resource development and infrastructure connectivity. However, China remains cautious because of the risk of non-state actors exploiting Afghanistan as a safe haven. China's approach to Afghanistan involves fostering connections with the Taliban, contributing to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and promoting regional peace and stability. China seeks to cooperate cautiously with the Taliban on economic projects while emphasizing counterterrorism efforts. China also engages with regional partners to promote its stability and development. The key to China's success in Afghanistan lies in its ability to balance security imperatives with economic pursuits and strategic objectives. This delicate balancing act is crucial to ensuring regional stability and fostering development in Afghanistan.
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