China has recently assumed responsibility for leading consultations, managing negotiations, and drafting resolutions related to Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council, a move seen as reflecting Beijing’s growing diplomatic influence on Afghan affairs. According to reports, China is now serving as the “penholder” on Afghanistan within the Security Council. The role gives a member state primary responsibility for drafting resolutions, coordinating negotiations among council members, and shaping discussions on issues related to Afghanistan. The responsibility was previously held by Japan. However, following the end of Tokyo’s term on the Security Council, several countries reportedly competed for the position. After months of consultations and disagreements among council members, China secured the role. In March this year, China submitted the first draft resolution concerning the extension of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). China’s ambassador to the United Nations subsequently stated that Beijing had led the drafting and coordination process for the resolution as the principal coordinator of the Afghanistan file. Political observers say China’s assumption of the role could influence how the Security Council approaches issues concerning Afghanistan, including the UNAMA mandate, political and security developments in the country, and the international community’s engagement with the Taliban administration. The United States, however, continues to retain responsibility for matters related to Afghanistan sanctions under the Security Council’s 1988 Sanctions Committee.
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