Historic Arrival of China's Ambassador to Afghanistan Under Taliban Rule

In a landmark development, the Taliban leadership has welcomed China's newly appointed ambassador to Afghanistan, hailing it as a pivotal moment signaling an invitation to other nations to forge relations with the Taliban-led administration.

This comes against the backdrop of the Taliban's ascendancy to power in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led NATO forces after nearly two decades of conflict. In the wake of their takeover, Taliban leaders have faced international sanctions, and their rule remains unrecognized as legitimate by the global community.

The United Nations seat for Afghanistan continues to be held by the former government led by Ashraf Ghani. Currently, only a handful of nations maintain operational diplomatic missions in Afghanistan, with China being among them. Both China and the Taliban have expressed their mutual desire for closer ties.

Ambassador Zhao Sheng's arrival was marked by a grand reception at the Presidential Palace, escorted by a police convoy and greeted by uniformed troops. This event signifies the first instance since the Taliban's assumption of power where an ambassador to Kabul has been officially welcomed with such pomp and ceremony.

Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi emphasized the special relationship between the two nations and described Zhao's appointment as a "significant step with a significant message." The Taliban's chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, noted that it is customary for new ambassadors to present their credentials to the head of the country.

We should establish good relations as a result of good interactions, and with good relations, we can solve all the problems that are in front of us or coming in the future." However, he refrained from addressing inquiries regarding what Zhao's presence might signify concerning the Taliban's persistent demand for official recognition on the international stage.

China has always done the unexpected. Establishing diplomatic ties with Taliban would help Taliban to behave as a normal country operating in the world. The effects of sanctions by other countries will also be reduced.

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