New Developments in China-Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations
New Delhi:
Just days after India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar had a conversation with Amir Khan Muttaki, the Taliban’s representative in Afghanistan, China acted quickly to arrange a meeting between the foreign ministers of Pakistan and Afghanistan. During this informal meeting led by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, both nations tentatively agreed to send ambassadors to each other soon. They also showed interest in enhancing their diplomatic relations, according to a statement from China’s foreign ministry.
China’s Diplomatic Approach to Afghanistan
Alongside the meeting, China’s Foreign Minister also touched upon bilateral discussions between Amir Khan Muttaki of Afghanistan and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. China aims to strengthen ties between Kabul and Islamabad, particularly in light of India’s recent diplomatic engagement with the Taliban. Notably, while China accepted an ambassador from the Taliban-run government in Kabul, it hasn’t officially recognized it. In contrast, New Delhi has maintained its diplomatic channels open but has yet to recognize the Taliban’s government.
Current Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan
Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been strained since December 2024 when an airstrike by Pakistan in Paktika province resulted in nearly 50 deaths, many of whom were women and children. Despite the devastation, Pakistan has not acknowledged its military’s involvement, instead claiming it is conducting “anti-terrorist operations” against groups it deems a threat. Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan of harboring terrorists targeting its territory, a claim that Kabul firmly denies.
The Taliban has also raised concerns regarding Pakistan’s management of refugees, with Muttaki meeting with Ishaq Dar last month to discuss these issues.
After the Recent Meeting
Expressing gratitude to China for facilitating talks with the Taliban, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry highlighted the positive developments in their bilateral relations regarding diplomatic engagement, trade, and transportation enhancements. China’s Foreign Minister reciprocated by expressing support for reconstruction and development efforts in Afghanistan and a willingness to amplify trade engagements. Wang stressed that all parties agreed to collaborate on security matters and combat terrorism, ensuring regional stability.
Muttaki also underscored the significance of nurturing political and economic relations with both countries, hoping for future advancements in these areas.
India’s Approach to the Taliban
India and the Taliban have been working on strengthening ties since the latter assumed power in August 2021, following the withdrawal of foreign troops. Diplomatic meetings between Indian diplomats and Taliban officials have aimed for broader cooperation over time, rooted in historical connections.
While ties remain unnormalized, India’s strategy under the Taliban emphasizes humanitarian aid and supporting Afghan citizens’ welfare. The evolving diplomatic initiative is aimed at restoring a sense of normalcy in relations, with numerous meetings occurring in the past year.
A high-profile gathering took place in Dubai in January, involving Indian representatives and the Taliban’s Foreign Minister, in addition to Afghan delegations, where substantial discussions—including those about the port of Chabahar—were held. This Dubai conference was designed to enhance cooperation in various sectors, like humanitarian aid, development, trade, culture, and national security interests.
Recently, the Indian government has also permitted the Taliban to gradually oversee its Afghan missions in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, enabling consular services for Indian citizens and facilitating business, academic, or healthcare exchanges for those coming from Afghanistan.
