ISLAMABAD (PEN) : China has expressed support for *Russia’s decision to recognise the Taliban government* in Afghanistan, becoming the first country to do so since the group’s return to power in 2021. Beijing reiterated its longstanding position that Afghanistan should not be isolated from the global community.
“As a traditional friendly neighbour of Afghanistan, the Chinese side has always believed that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson *Mao Ning* during a press briefing on Friday.
China Maintains Diplomatic Ties with Taliban
Although China has not formally recognised the Taliban-led administration, it maintains diplomatic engagement with Kabul and hosts a Taliban-appointed ambassador in Beijing. Mao Ning emphasized that diplomatic relations between China and Afghanistan have remained uninterrupted.
“No matter how the internal or external situation changes in Afghanistan, diplomatic relations between China and Afghanistan have never been interrupted,” she stated. “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.”
Taliban Seeks Legitimacy Amid Ongoing Challenges
The *Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021* after the withdrawal of foreign troops and the collapse of the Western-backed government. Since then, the group has imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law and has struggled to gain *official international recognition*—a key priority for Kabul as it seeks to stabilise the country and attract foreign investment.
While Russia’s recognition marks a diplomatic milestone for the Taliban, *China has maintained a cautious approach*, stating that the Afghan government must first implement political reforms, enhance security, and improve regional relations before it can receive full recognition from Beijing.
Geopolitical Context
China and Russia’s moves are being closely watched amid evolving regional dynamics. Both nations have voiced concern over potential instability in Afghanistan and have emphasized the importance of engaging with the country to promote peace and reconstruction.
As Afghanistan emerges from decades of conflict, international actors continue to weigh their diplomatic strategies, balancing geopolitical interests with concerns over governance, security, and human rights under Taliban rule.
