China has called upon the global community to increase assistance for Afghanistan and collaborate to address terrorism as the country marks the second anniversary of the Taliban’s ascension to power.
In order to maintain long-term peace, stability, and prosperity in Afghanistan, the spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, Wang Wenbin, underlined the importance of increased security cooperation and all-encompassing support.
China Urges Global Support for Afghanistan
During a regular press briefing, Wang asserted, “The international community should strengthen bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism security cooperation and support Afghanistan in its holistic approach toward achieving peace, stability, and development at an early date.”
He acknowledged the interim government’s efforts, noting pragmatic measures taken to promote economic recovery, safeguard livelihoods, combat corruption, and enhance security.
While recognizing the Taliban’s initiatives, Wang conveyed the international community’s expectations, including safeguarding the rights of women and ethnic minorities and fostering a more inclusive government structure.
He expressed hope that the interim Afghan government would actively address these expectations and enhance its engagement with the Afghan people and the global community.
The Taliban took control of Kabul two years ago following the withdrawal of US troops and the subsequent collapse of the Western-backed government established in 2001.
However, promises of preserving rights, freedoms, and safety quickly deteriorated, with women being deprived of education and healthcare and instances of violence and torture emerging, partly attributed to the activities of the Islamic State’s local affiliate.
China, mindful of counterterrorism efforts and the potential for instability spilling across its borders, presented a four-point proposal in April to address the issue in collaboration with Afghanistan’s neighboring nations.
Despite not officially recognizing the Taliban government, China has increased interactions with Kabul authorities, delivering humanitarian aid and participating in security and trade discussions.
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A Step Towards Afghanistan’s Recovery and Stability
In a notable development, China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor into Afghanistan.
Highlighting the urgent humanitarian needs, Wang emphasized that resolving the crisis is pivotal for Afghanistan’s long-term stability.
He called upon countries that have reduced aid, frozen assets, and imposed sanctions over the past two years to take lessons from the situation.
According to a recent Unicef report, the requirement for humanitarian aid in Afghanistan has surged to 29.2 million people, with over 15 million individuals projected to face severe levels of food insecurity.
As China seeks to contribute to Afghanistan’s stability and recovery, international collaboration and assistance are essential to address the multifaceted challenges the nation faces in the aftermath of the Taliban’s takeover.
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