Pragmatism and security. China's foreign policy towards Afghanistan (1971-2021)
Keywords:
China, Afghanistan, Taliban movement, securityAbstract
This article analyzes the evolution of China's foreign policy toward Afghanistan between 1979 and 2021, a period marked by prolonged armed conflict and the intervention of external actors. Chinese policy was characterized by a pragmatic and limited approach, prioritizing national and regional security, especially in relation to Xinjiang. During the Soviet-Afghan War, China supported the mujahideen to counter Soviet influence. Subsequently, in the face of the Afghan civil war and the rise of extremism, Beijing strengthened security cooperation with neighboring states, while maintaining discreet dialogue with the first Taliban Islamic Emirate to ensure stability on its border. Starting in 2012, with the withdrawal of Western troops, China increased its economic aid and military cooperation with the Islamic Republic, while maintaining communication with the Taliban. From an economic standpoint, although bilateral trade grew, large investment projects were hampered by the fragile security situation caused by the Afghan conflict. China also implemented a policy of strategic balance with the Afghan actors in conflict, which allowed it to mitigate the risks arising from Afghan instability and secure its security and economic interests.
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