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China Demands Investigation into Killing of National in Afghanistan

China has urged the Afghan government to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the recent murder of a Chinese citizen in Afghanistan. The incident occurred in Takhar province, where the deceased, identified by the surname Li, was affiliated with a mining company.

According to Taliban police spokesperson Mohammed Akbar, Li was attacked by “unknown individuals” while traveling with a translator on Tuesday evening. Fortunately, the translator was unharmed during the incident.

Reports indicate that Li did not inform local security officials of his travel plans, which is typically required for Chinese nationals in Afghanistan. Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani remarked that Li was advised to notify authorities when moving between districts or provinces.

In response to the attack, China’s foreign ministry expressed its profound shock and called for a thorough investigation. Spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the necessity for Afghan authorities to take decisive actions to protect Chinese citizens and businesses operating within the country.

ISIS has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack, as stated by the intelligence monitor SITE. The organization asserted that its fighters targeted the vehicle of the Chinese national, resulting in his death and damage to the vehicle. According to ISIS, their militants employed a machine gun during the assault.

This attack represents a significant incident, marking the first targeted killing of a foreign national in Afghanistan since December 2022. At that time, ISIS-K, a local affiliate of ISIS, attacked a Kabul hotel frequented by Chinese investors, claiming multiple lives and injuring several others, including Chinese citizens. Following that event, the Chinese government urged its nationals to evacuate the country.

The Taliban assumed control of Afghanistan in August 2021, following the withdrawal of US and allied forces after a prolonged military presence. While the Taliban claims to have restored order, the resurgence of ISIS-K has raised concerns, as it continues to execute high-profile attacks against a range of targets, including Taliban officials, prominent religious leaders, and members of the marginalized Shiite community.

Even though no nation has formally recognized the Taliban-led government, China stands out as the first country to appoint an ambassador to Afghanistan during the Taliban’s rule, signaling its intent to strengthen economic ties and investment opportunities in the region.

The significance of China for the Taliban cannot be understated. As the Taliban seeks to attract foreign investment and fortify regional partnerships to combat their isolation—largely a result of international concerns over their policies regarding women’s rights—China remains a crucial player in these efforts.

Source
www.yahoo.com