China says IEA must reform before government can be recognized

China said on Tuesday Afghanistan’s Taliban government will need to introduce political reforms, improve security and mend relations with its neighbours before receiving full diplomatic recognition, Barrons reported Wednesday.

Speaking to Barrons, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said: “China has always believed that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community.

“We hope that Afghanistan will further respond to the expectations of the international community, build an open and inclusive political structure (and) implement moderate and stable domestic and foreign policies,” he said.

Wang also told Barrons China has urged Kabul to “resolutely combat all types of terrorist forces, live in harmony with all countries around the world, especially neighbouring countries, and integrate with the international community at an early date”.

“As the concerns of all parties receive stronger responses, diplomatic recognition of the Afghan government will naturally follow,” he said.

The IEA government has not been officially recognised by any country since regaining power in August 2021.