Search Articles

Home / Articles

From Economic Cooperation to Political Intervention: China`s Role in Afghanistan

. Dr Allauddin kakar, Dr Bilal Zubair, Dr Akbar Khan


Abstract

Sino-Afghan relationships date back to the era of the ancient Silk Road. Their formal diplomatic relationships were established in 1955. Since then Afghanistan remains an important component in Beijing`s regional policy. Over the past two decades, China`s economic and political role in Afghanistan has increased. For Beijing, Afghanistan has become an important aspect of its geo-economic and geo-political calculations. This article identifies security, energy, connectivity, and geopolitics as the main interests of China in Afghanistan.  Afghanistan`s important geostrategic location combined with its connectivity features provides Beijing an opportunity to achieve its foreign policy objectives. Peace and stability in Afghanistan are key to Chinese interests. China`s Central Asian Strategy, the BRI and CPEC, and the security of its Xinjian region are important factors in China Afghan policy. From its role in the Doha peace dialogue, economic aid, and investment, China has emerged as a proactive regional player in the Afghan affair. This article attempts to recount China's political and economic role in Afghanistan. Also, the paper discusses future prospects of China role in Afghanistan and provides policy recommendations.

Key Words: China, Afghanistan, geostrategic, political, economic, Central Asia.

Download :