Zabiullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, has welcomed China’s assumption of the penholder role for Afghanistan in the United Nations Security Council.
Kabul 24: In an interview with TOLOnews, Mujahid said China possesses a proper understanding of the regional situation and enjoys positive relations with the Islamic Emirate.
He added that Beijing is therefore capable of addressing Afghanistan-related issues in a fair and impartial manner.The penholder responsibility includes leading negotiations, drafting resolutions, and guiding the Security Council’s decision-making process on Afghanistan.
Japan held this position throughout 2024. Following the conclusion of Japan’s term, the role has been transferred to China for 2025.Mujahid described China as a reliable partner that well understands regional dynamics.
He noted that the friendly relationship between the Islamic Emirate and the People’s Republic of China provides a solid basis for advancing Afghanistan’s matters in international platforms.
According to Mujahid, China can fulfill this role neutrally and avoid one-sided approaches.This welcoming stance comes amid China’s growing diplomatic and economic engagement in Afghanistan in recent years.
Beijing has maintained its embassy in Kabul, expanded trade ties, and invested in infrastructure projects. Observers see China’s new role as evidence of increasing Chinese influence in Afghan affairs and its intention to help shape international policies concerning Afghanistan.
Experts in international relations view this development as part of larger geopolitical shifts. While the United States and some Western countries had earlier reservations about assigning the role to China, the decision was ultimately accepted.
China has consistently argued that the drafting of resolutions should not be limited to a few Western powers.The Islamic Emirate hopes this change will contribute to reducing diplomatic isolation, promoting economic cooperation, and easing or lifting existing sanctions.
Mujahid has previously expressed appreciation for the positions taken by China and Russia on Afghanistan, emphasizing cooperation over pressure.
This transition may open a new page in Afghanistan’s international diplomacy and reinforce China’s position as an influential actor in regional stability and development.
Success, however, will depend on the cooperation of all involved parties and their consideration of the actual situation inside Afghanistan.
