China has voiced support for Russia’s landmark decision to formally recognise the Taliban government in Afghanistan, becoming the first global power to do so since the group’s return to power in 2021.
During a press briefing on Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning welcomed Moscow’s move and emphasized Beijing’s long-standing diplomatic engagement with Kabul. “As a traditional friendly neighbour of Afghanistan, the Chinese side has always believed that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community,” Mao said.
Russia’s recognition comes nearly three years after the Taliban swept back into control following the withdrawal of Western forces and the collapse of the foreign-backed Afghan government. Since then, the group has struggled for legitimacy on the global stage while attempting to attract foreign investment and aid to rebuild the war-torn country.
Although China has not officially recognised the Taliban-led administration, it maintains diplomatic relations and has hosted a Taliban-appointed ambassador in Beijing. Mao reiterated that diplomatic ties between the two countries have remained uninterrupted. “The diplomatic institutions of the two sides in each other’s countries have maintained their normal functioning and have played a positive role in promoting the development of relations between the two countries,” she stated.
China has previously signaled that full diplomatic recognition hinges on the Taliban’s progress in implementing political reforms, ensuring domestic security, and fostering good relations with neighbouring countries. Nonetheless, Beijing’s endorsement of Russia’s move marks a significant step towards greater international engagement with Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
The Taliban has welcomed any gesture of legitimacy from world powers, hoping that formal recognition could pave the way for economic recovery and diplomatic normalization after decades of instability and conflict.
