The Taliban government has welcomed China’s new ambassador to Afghanistan, Zhao Sheng, in Kabul yesterday. In a statement, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the appointment is the part of normal rotation and was intended to continue advancing dialogue and cooperation between the two countries. The ministry stated that China’s policy toward Afghanistan is clear and consistent. After this China has become first country who named an ambassador since the Taliban took over in 2021.

According to reports, China has invested millions of dollars in Afganistan, as it seeks to expand its influence. Earlier this year, China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan also agreed to extend the Beijing-backed China-Pakistan Economic Corridor into Afghanistan.