Beijing, 12 April 2023 (TDI): On Wednesday, China released an 11-point statement on the Afghanistan question, outlining its support for moderate governance, counter-terrorism efforts, and the reconstruction of Afghanistan.
The statement aimed to highlight China’s stance and its respect for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, independent choices, religious norms, and commitment to non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.
The 11-point statement of China was the true expression of its aspirations for Afghanistan to adopt an open and inclusive political structure based on moderate policies.
In addition to its aspirations, China reiterated its commitment to assisting Afghanistan in its reconstruction and economic development, including cooperation in fields such as medical care, poverty alleviation, agriculture, and disaster prevention and mitigation.
Moreover, the Chinese statement reaffirmed its support for moderate and prudent governance in Afghanistan and calls for an open and inclusive political structure, domestic and foreign policies, and friendly exchanges with all countries, especially neighbouring countries.
Therefore, China pledged to continue its support for peace and reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan, including assistance in reconstruction, economic cooperation, and participation in Belt and Road cooperation.
Considering the need for resolute action against terrorism, particularly the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) forces in Afghanistan, China called for greater bilateral and multilateral counter-terrorism cooperation to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, institutions, and projects, as well as those of other countries.
Also, it called on the United States to lift sanctions, return Afghan overseas assets, and deliver pledged humanitarian aid while opposing external interference and infiltration in Afghanistan.
China’s support for plans and measures that contribute to political solutions, rather than geopolitical games, also emphasizes the need for international and regional coordination on the Afghan issue.
Furthermore, China endorsed initiatives and actions that promote a political resolution to the Afghan issue, and actively participates in multilateral coordination efforts, such as the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the Afghan Issue among the Neighbouring Countries of Afghanistan, and other relevant platforms.
In a nutshell, the statement on the Afghan question reflected its commitment to supporting moderate governance, counter-terrorism efforts, and the reconstruction of Afghanistan while respecting its sovereignty and non-interference in its internal affairs.
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China’s emphasis on cooperation among stakeholders and multilateral coordination underscores its commitment to finding a political resolution to the Afghan issue and promoting regional stability and security.
