China’s Multilateral Strategy in Post-American Afghanistan

The US withdrawal from Afghanistan and the subsequent takeover of the country by the Taliban created a dilemma for the People's Republic of China. The Chinese leaders are wary of getting embroiled in the complex situation in Afghanistan. However, they also realize that without proper engagement, the country poses the threat of adverse outcomes for China. This study departs from such an idea and holds that the Chinese approach to a Taliban-led Afghanistan in the aftermath of the US withdrawal is one that is informed by the failure of the United States and its allies. The article describes the Chinese strategy towards Afghanistan as regional and multilateral. This multilateralism suggests that the Chinese are wary of repeating the missteps of NATO and the West. It also indicates the Chinese desire to avoid a regional competition involving Afghanistan.