China's Expanding Engagement with Taliban-Led Afghanistan
Since the Taliban's return to power in 2021, China has progressively deepened its diplomatic and economic ties with Afghanistan, focusing on security concerns and resource investments.
Since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, China has progressively deepened its engagement with Afghanistan, focusing on security concerns and economic opportunities. In July 2021, prior to the Taliban's takeover, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with a Taliban delegation led by Mullah Baradar in Tianjin, emphasizing China's concerns regarding Uyghur militants. Following the Taliban's ascension, China appointed Yue Xiaoyong as its special envoy for Afghan affairs, underscoring its strategic interest in the region.
In September 2023, China became the first country to appoint a new ambassador to Afghanistan since the Taliban's takeover, with Zhao Xing assuming the role. This diplomatic move was reciprocated in December 2023 when China accepted the credentials of Bilal Ahmad Karimi, the Taliban-appointed ambassador to China. These developments indicate a gradual shift towards formalized diplomatic relations.
Economically, China has pursued investments in Afghanistan's natural resources. In 2023, a 25-year contract was signed with the Taliban for the Amu Darya oil field, involving an annual investment of $150 million by the Xinjiang Central Asia Petroleum and Gas Co. (CAPEIC). However, this deal was terminated in 2025 due to the company's failure to meet its commitments. Additionally, efforts to revive the $3 billion Mes Aynak copper mine project, originally agreed upon in 2008, have faced delays due to security concerns and logistical challenges.
China has also provided humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. Following a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in June 2022, China contributed approximately $7 million in emergency aid. Similar support was extended after subsequent earthquakes in October 2023 and August 2025, reinforcing China's role as a responsive partner during crises.
Despite these engagements, challenges persist. Security incidents, such as the December 2025 attacks near the Afghan-Tajik border resulting in the deaths of Chinese workers, have raised concerns about the safety of Chinese nationals and investments in Afghanistan. These events have led to evacuations and may impact future cooperation.
Overall, China's approach to Afghanistan under Taliban rule reflects a pragmatic strategy aimed at securing its interests while navigating the complexities of the region's political and security landscape.
