China-Afghanistan Relations

Developments in two areas – Afghanistan’s illicit drug trade and the Sino-Afghan shared border – will give us early indications of Beijing’s approach to a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

Beijing will approach Afghan affairs – and the Taliban – more cautiously than people think.

The Taliban’s promises cannot be trusted. China knows this, but it has few good options.

China must clarify its strategic priorities to be able to positively influence the trajectory of the Afghan peace process.

Deteriorating Afghan security poses risks for China, so Beijing is quietly building up its presence in the area.

China’s policies on Afghanistan, Xinjiang, Russia, terrorism, and the trade war – all have their roots in the late Cold War era.

Afghans consider both China and India to be trustworthy neighbors. Together, they can help ensure Afghanistan's future.

China’s role in Afghanistan is undoubtedly growing. What does that mean for the peace process?

Kabul and Islamabad have long requested China help them settle their differences.

The meeting underlines growing military-to-military ties.

Despite Chinese attempts at mediation, differences between Kabul and Islamabad persist.