China on Friday expressed support for Russia’s recent decision to recognise the Taliban government in Afghanistan formally. The Chinese Foreign Ministry described the move as a positive step and restated its commitment to maintaining friendly ties with the Afghan people.
Speaking in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning noted that Afghanistan should not be isolated from the global community. She highlighted China’s consistent stance as a neighbour with historic ties, emphasising the importance of engagement rather than exclusion.
The Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 after overthrowing the Western-backed government. Since then, they have been seeking global recognition and foreign investment to rebuild the country after years of conflict, including the Soviet occupation from 1979 to 1989.
Although China has not formally recognised the Taliban regime, it maintains diplomatic contact and currently hosts a Taliban-appointed ambassador in Beijing. China has said full recognition would depend on progress in political reforms, improved security, and stable relations with neighbouring countries.
Mao reaffirmed that despite ongoing challenges, diplomatic ties between China and Afghanistan have remained steady. She stated that both countries’ embassies continue to operate normally and have played a constructive role in bilateral relations.
