Afghanistan-China relations

The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has indeed provided China an opportunity, but there’s little evidence that Beijing has any concrete plan to address the country’s problems. 

The Taliban's new deal is actually a repeat of a previous contract signed by the former Republic government with CNPC in 2011. That deal's fate should temper expectations.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi's surprise trip to Afghanistan was a clear sign that China is ready to engage with the Taliban as a normal government.

The trade offers concrete and immediate benefits to both the Chinese government and the Taliban.

What lies ahead for Afghanistan as the United States withdraws and fighting between the Taliban and the government intensifies?

None expect China to replace the United States in military terms, but Central Asia may hope Beijing plays a more substantial role in Afghanistan.

China has long resented the presence of U.S. and allied forces in Afghanistan, but is equally wary of instability in the region.

What the peace process and U.S. withdrawal means for Beijing.

The NUG has seen more success than its predecessors in appealing to China – largely thanks to the Belt and Road.

Since the early '90s, Kabul has tried to convince China to intervene with Pakistan on its behalf – to little success.

Emboldened by foreign support, the Taliban continue to refuse talks with the Afghan government.