Afghanistan Peace CampaignZhao Xing, China’s ambassador in Kabul, noted that political relations between China and Afghanistan have grown since the Islamic Emirate came to power.
Officials from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and China, following years of expanding economic and trade ties, continue to strengthen their political and commercial cooperation.
Mohammad Naeem Wardak, deputy minister for finance and administration at Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized during a meeting with the Chinese ambassador that the Islamic Emirate, based on its foreign policy, seeks positive engagement with all countries, including China.
Wardak stated: “The Islamic Emirate’s policy is to pursue positive and beneficial relations within the framework of our values, interests, and national priorities. By the grace of God, the Islamic Emirate has achieved considerable success in this area.”
Zhao Xing, China’s ambassador in Kabul, noted that political relations between China and Afghanistan have grown since the Islamic Emirate came to power.
He highlighted that China has eliminated customs tariffs on Afghan goods, calling it a turning point in the economic relationship between the two countries.
The Chinese ambassador said: “Last year, China announced it would bring import tariffs on Afghan goods to zero. In contrast, the United States imposed unilateral tariffs that not only affected China–Afghanistan trade but also harmed global trade. This reflects the arrogant nature of such countries.”
Meanwhile, Abdul Wali Siddiqi, head of Ariana Afghan Airlines, said that with the increase in direct flights to China, the goal is to facilitate travel for citizens and expand trade between Kabul and Beijing.
Siddiqi added: “Ariana Airlines currently operates one flight per week to China. To meet the needs of citizens and traders, this will be increased to two weekly flights.”
Mohammad Younus Mohmand, first deputy of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said: “Our relationship with China is close, historic, and rooted in geographic proximity. We hope to connect our trade ties via railway as well.”
According to the Chinese ambassador, the trade volume between Afghanistan and China reached $1.5 billion in 2024, marking a 19% increase compared to 2023.