Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in a meeting with Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund, expressed hope that the group would “understand and pay special attention” to Beijing’s security concerns.
According to the Taliban, Wang assured the group of China’s readiness to cooperate on both economic and security matters.
The Taliban’s office said Wang stressed that Beijing had been “sincere and steadfast” in its friendship with Afghanistan and remained prepared to strengthen ties in key areas. He added that enhanced security cooperation would pave the way for Afghanistan’s progress.
“We have a shared future and want Asian countries, especially Afghanistan, to take steps towards modernisation,” Wang was quoted as saying. Referring to historic ties, he described China and Afghanistan as “good friends.”
The senior Chinese diplomat also said Beijing respected Afghanistan’s independence and the choices of its people, adding that he believed Afghans had chosen the right path. He noted he was the only foreign minister from a permanent member of the UN Security Council to have visited Afghanistan twice under Taliban rule, calling this a sign of “friendship and sincerity.”
In response, Mullah Hassan Akhund sought to reassure China, saying: “Tell the president of China that no security threat will arise from Afghan soil towards China or any other country.” He pledged the Taliban would not allow Afghanistan to be used as a base to harm others.
The Taliban prime minister also thanked Beijing for its “positive positions, support and cooperation” in international forums, adding that China had consistently played a constructive role in global development. He called on Beijing to continue its efforts to support the Taliban’s position within the international community.
Wang Yi’s meeting with Mullah Hassan Akhund took place during his visit to Kabul for a trilateral summit with Taliban and Pakistani officials. The Taliban Foreign Ministry earlier said the gathering would focus on strengthening political, economic and regional cooperation.
