China's Strategic Engagement with Taliban Faces Challenges from ISIS-K
China has been strategically engaging with the Taliban in Afghanistan since the U.S. withdrawal in 2021, aiming to secure its interests and counter threats from groups like the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISIS-K). Despite maintaining diplomatic ties and security cooperation, Beijing has not formally recognized the Taliban government, using recognition as leverage to ensure its interests are protected. The Taliban has managed to restrict Uyghur militants' activities but has not expelled them, which remains a concern for China. ISIS-K has targeted Chinese nationals and businesses, complicating the Taliban's role as a security partner for China. 
