Washington, D.C./Beijing/Kabul – March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump has raised concerns over China's growing influence in Afghanistan, alleging that the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has taken control of Bagram Air Base. The claim has ignited a diplomatic dispute, with the Taliban vehemently denying the presence of Chinese troops at the former U.S. military facility.
Trump’s Concerns Over China’s Influence
Speaking at a White House briefing, President Trump criticized China's alleged expansion in Afghanistan, stating, “We were going to keep Bagram—not because of Afghanistan, but because of China. It’s exactly one hour away from where China makes its nuclear missiles. And you know who's occupying it right now? China.”
The president also reaffirmed his commitment to recovering U.S. military equipment left behind during the 2021 withdrawal, calling it a "disgrace" that American weaponry is now in the hands of the Taliban.
Taliban Dismisses Allegations
The Taliban government has swiftly rejected Trump's claims. A senior Taliban spokesperson stated, "There are no Chinese troops at Bagram or anywhere in Afghanistan. Our country will not allow foreign military presence." Despite this denial, Beijing’s deepening economic ties with the Taliban have fueled speculation about its strategic ambitions in the region.
China’s Growing Role in Afghanistan
While China has denied any military deployment in Afghanistan, it has significantly expanded its economic and diplomatic footprint. Under President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Beijing has signed major infrastructure and mineral extraction deals with the Taliban. In 2023, China granted Afghanistan tariff-free trade access in key sectors such as construction, energy, and consumer goods.
Reports have previously suggested that China conducted feasibility studies regarding a potential presence at Bagram, though no concrete evidence has surfaced. However, analysts note that Beijing’s strategic interests in Afghanistan align with its broader regional ambitions.
Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy
President Trump’s comments signal a potential shift in U.S. policy toward Afghanistan, with his administration considering measures to counter China’s influence. The White House is reportedly reviewing economic and security strategies to strengthen America's position in the region.
As global tensions rise, Trump's remarks underscore the growing U.S.-China rivalry, with Afghanistan emerging as a key battleground in the struggle for geopolitical dominance. The coming months could determine whether Washington takes further steps to reassert its influence in the region.
.png)
The opinions posted here do not belong to 🔰www.indiansdaily.com. The author is solely responsible for the opinions.
As per the IT policy of the Central Government, insults against an individual, community, religion or country, defamatory and inflammatory remarks, obscene and vulgar language are punishable offenses. Legal action will be taken for such expressions of opinion.