At a diplomatic ceremony on January 30 in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping received the credentials of 309 foreign diplomats, including Bilal Karimi, a former Taliban spokesman. This move made China the first country to formally recognize the Taliban as the governing power in Afghanistan since their seizure of control in 2021. The recognition comes as China has been increasing its involvement in Afghanistan through investments and projects following the withdrawal of US forces in 2021.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that accepting Karimi’s credentials did not equate to official recognition of the Taliban government. However, the move was still seen as a major diplomatic victory for the Taliban, which has been seeking global recognition while facing isolation and economic sanctions from the West.
China’s decision to recognize the Taliban envoy is part of a broader strategy to engage with the group based on mutual interests, particularly in relation to security. Other countries, including Russia, Iran, Turkey, and India, have also sought pragmatic relationships with the Taliban in an effort to secure their respective interests and moderate the group’s behavior.
The Taliban, facing severe economic challenges and widespread unemployment in Afghanistan, has been seeking partners to alleviate these crises. China’s recognition provides a major power ally for the Taliban, especially given the US’s reluctance to engage with the group.
The relationship between the Taliban and China, while beneficial for both parties, also carries potential risks. Deeper ties with China could lead to the Taliban falling under Chinese influence and possibly alienating other regional powers. The Taliban, recognizing this dilemma, seeks to balance its engagement with Beijing while avoiding complete isolation from other potential foreign patrons.
Overall, China’s recognition of the Taliban as an official envoy highlights the evolving dynamics in the region as countries adapt to the change in power in Afghanistan and seek to secure their respective interests.