70 Years of China-Afghanistan Diplomatic Ties
KABUL(BNA): As China and Afghanistan commemorate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, the two countries reflect on a relationship built on mutual respect, sustained partnership, and shared aspirations for development.
Chinese support for Afghanistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity remains unwavering. In a statement, Mawlawi Abdul Salam Hanafi, the deputy prime minister of the Islamic Emirate, highlighted the historical foundation of the relationship, emphasizing trade, economic collaboration, and political connections.
In recent years, China has facilitated Afghan exports by offering tariff exemptions. This was evident during the lead-up to the 136th China Import and Export Fair in Guangzhou last year, where Afghan businessmen flocked to the Chinese Embassy in Kabul seeking business visas to tap into the growing trade opportunities.
Afghan products such as saffron, hand-woven carpets, pine nuts, and precious stones have gained visibility in exhibitions across multiple Chinese cities, further strengthening bilateral trade relations.
Chinese investments have also significantly contributed to Afghanistan’s infrastructure and social projects. Notable initiatives include the construction of the Kabul-Jalalabad highway, improvements at Jamhoriat Hospital in Kabul, and educational facilities at Kabul University. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the IslamicEmirate, emphasized the importance of these economic ties, stating, “We should use all the facilities that we have in common economically.”
China’s humanitarian aid has been critical for Afghanistan, mainly in times of crisis. Arafat Jamal, UNHCR representative in Afghanistan, expressed gratitude for China’s support, which has enabled the UN agency to assist displaced families. citing Xinhua.
In response to natural disasters, China has promptly provided essential relief items, including cash donations to the Afghan Red Crescent Society and aid packages comprising food, clothing, and medicines.
According to Xinhua report, Cultural exchanges have flourished as well, with the Confucius Institute at Kabul University training approximately 5,600 Afghan learners since its establishment in 2008. Students, like Ali, have found joy in learning Chinese and aspire to continue their studies in China.
Cooperation in preserving cultural heritage has also seen fruitful outcomes, particularly at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Bamiyan Buddhas, where Chinese and Afghan scholars have collaborated on conservation projects.
Gul Ahmad Wahaj, the Bakhtar News Agency correspondent, remarked on the strength of the cultural ties between the two nations, describing them as “among the strongest and most harmonious.”
Looking to the future, Zhao Xing, the Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan, expressed a commitment to working together for development, regional peace, and mutual cultural exchange, stating, “China is willing to join hands with Afghanistan to pursue development and prosperity.”
Bakhtar
