China's geopolitical calculations have led it to form a strategic alliance with the Taliban, the fundamentalist group that now controls Afghanistan. Beijing sees the Taliban as a useful partner in securing its interests in the region, including combating terrorism and protecting its investments in infrastructure and natural resources. Despite the Taliban's human rights abuses, China has provided the group with economic and political support, bolstering its legitimacy and undermining international efforts to promote democracy. This alignment has raised concerns about the potential for China to use its influence in Afghanistan to advance its authoritarian agenda and further erode human rights and democratic values.
