China welcomes the end of “three weeks of anarchy” in Afghanistan with the establishment of a new interim government in Kabul, “as a necessary step to restore order and rebuild the country”, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a press briefing on September 8.

Beijing has already said it is ready to build friendly relations with the group following their takeover.

Analysts have said a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would open economic opportunities for China and allow for expansion of its massive overseas infrastructure drive, the Belt and Road Initiative.

The Taliban may also see China as a crucial source of economic support and potentially a key ally. Last week a spokesman for the militants said Beijing had promised them increased aid and Covid-19 assistance.

Wang on September 8 said China would “not interfere in Afghanistan’s internal affairs”, but hoped the Taliban would “pursue moderate and steady domestic and foreign policies, resolutely crack down on all kinds of terrorist forces, and get along well with all countries, especially neighbouring countries”.