China has become the first country in the world to formally establish diplomatic relations with the Taliban at the highest level, Xinhua reported. The former deputy press secretary of the Taliban movement, Bilal Karimi, has been appointed as the ambassador of Afghanistan to China, marking a significant diplomatic milestone.
The credential handover ceremony took place on January 30 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Ambassadors from 42 countries, including Bilal Karimi, presented their diplomatic documents to Chinese President Xi Jinping. The event signifies the formal commencement of their diplomatic duties. Back in September 2023, China was the first country to appoint its ambassador to Kabul after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan.
During the ceremony, President Xi Jinping expressed his optimism about the ambassadors' roles in fostering comprehensive cooperation and building stronger bilateral relations. He emphasized that China would provide the necessary support and conveniences for ambassadors to fulfill their duties effectively.
However, the move has triggered concerns and raised questions about China's stance on recognizing the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan.
U.S. Reacts Cautiously
In response to this development, U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated that Beijing's position on recognizing the Taliban remains unclear. He reiterated that the existing relations between China and the Taliban would not alter the U.S. policy regarding the recognition of the Taliban government.
Miller emphasized that for the Taliban to gain international recognition, especially from the United States, concrete steps must be taken. These include addressing human rights concerns, ensuring inclusivity, and particularly focusing on improving the status of women in Afghan society.
The United States has consistently urged the Taliban to demonstrate a commitment to protecting human rights, ensuring an inclusive government, and upholding the rights of women and minorities. Miller underscored that until such steps are taken, the United States will maintain a cautious approach toward recognizing the Taliban government.
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