China has promised to offer economic support and investment for Afghanistan’s reconstruction, adding that its ready to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with Taliban.
Recall that Taliban fighters on Sunday, invaded the outskirts of Kabul, demanding transfer of power. Unfortunately during the invasion, the fighters entered the presidential palace, causing the Afghanistan president, Ashraf Gani to flee the country.
After the invasion, thousands of Afghans have reportedly headed for the airport in the hope of catching a flight out of the country.
However, with the current development in Afghanistan, China has declared that its ready to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with Afghanistan, on the basis that the country will not be used as a base for militants.
Disclosing this to reporters on Monday is China’s spokesperson, Hua Chunying stating that: “China “welcomes” the chance to deepen ties with Afghanistan, a country that has for generations been coveted for its geo-strategic importance by bigger powers.
“The Taliban have repeatedly expressed their hope to develop good relations with China, and that they look forward to China’s participation in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan
“We welcome this. China respects the right of the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and is willing to continue to develop friendly and cooperative relations with Afghanistan.”
Hua called on the Taliban to “ensure a smooth transition” of power and keep its promises to negotiate the establishment of an “open and inclusive Islamic government” and ensure the safety of Afghans and foreign citizens.
Furthermore, Hua said that China’s embassy in Kabul remains operational, although Beijing began evacuating Chinese citizens from the country months ago amid the deteriorating security situation.
According to report, a top-level Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi in Tianjin last month, promising to create opportunity for China that shares a rugged 76-kilometre (47-mile) border with Afghanistan.
Following this, the Taliban’s takeover on Sunday opens a strategic door to China which is both risky and an opportunity.
The Taliban meanwhile may consider China a crucial source of investment and economic support, either directly or via Pakistan -– the insurgents’ chief regional patron and a close Beijing ally.
China has so far stopped short of officially recognising the Taliban as the new leaders of Afghanistan, but Wang Yi called them a “decisive military and political force” during last month’s meeting in Tianjin.
AFP
