Afghanistan, historically dubbed “the graveyard of empires,” has once again become the epicenter of a geopolitical contest. Following the withdrawal of the US forces in 2021 and the Taliban’s return to power, the country is entering a new phase of regional power dynamics. Two key players, China and Pakistan, find themselves as allies in navigating Afghanistan’s uncertain future. While their interests align in certain areas, their relationship is complex, shaped by geopolitical ambitions, security concerns, and economic aspirations.
The Rise of China and Changing Geopolitical Dynamics Related postsChina and Pakistan share a long history of cooperation, often described as an “all-weather friendship.” The bond, built over decades, has solidified in recent years through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The two countries have worked together on various fronts, particularly on economic and security cooperation, and they find common ground in Afghanistan due to shared concerns over stability, extremism, and the potential for economic expansion. Pakistan, which has deep historical ties with Afghanistan, is keenly aware of the impact of instability in its western neighbor on its own security and internal dynamics. For decades, Pakistan has played an influential role in Afghan politics, often mediating between factions, including the Taliban. China, meanwhile, has grown increasingly interested in Afghanistan, not just as a security issue but as an opportunity for economic investment, given the country’s rich natural resources.
China’s involvement in Afghanistan is primarily driven by two key objectives: security........