Beijing on Tuesday demanded that Afghan authorities take immediate and effective measures to protect Chinese citizens after a deadly bombing at a restaurant in Kabul killed at least seven people, including one Chinese national. The attack has intensified security concerns for foreign nationals in Afghanistan and prompted renewed diplomatic engagement between China and the Taliban-led government.
Deadly attack targets restaurant popular with Chinese visitors
The explosion struck the Chinese Noodle restaurant in the Shahr-e-Naw area of central Kabul on Monday. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran confirmed that six Afghan nationals also lost their lives in the attack. He added that the restaurant primarily served Chinese Muslims and often attracted Chinese business visitors and residents.
The SITE Intelligence Group reported that the regional affiliate of the Daesh group claimed responsibility for the bombing, describing it as a suicide attack targeting Chinese nationals. The incident has heightened fears about militant threats in the capital, despite Taliban claims that they have restored security across the country.
China shares a rugged 76-kilometre border with Afghanistan and has maintained close ties with the Taliban government. Chinese officials have pursued economic engagement in recent years, particularly in mining, infrastructure, and regional connectivity projects. However, the latest attack underscores the ongoing risks faced by foreign citizens operating in the country.
Beijing issues warning and presses Kabul for action
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Beijing had made urgent representations to the Afghan side. He stated that China demanded Afghan authorities spare no effort in treating the injured and take concrete steps to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens. He confirmed that five additional Chinese nationals suffered injuries in the blast.
Moreover, China issued a fresh travel warning, urging its citizens to avoid traveling to Afghanistan. Authorities also advised Chinese individuals and enterprises already in the country to strengthen security awareness, enhance protective measures, and evacuate high-risk areas as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Taliban officials continue to seek foreign investment as international aid declines. Chinese business visitors have increased since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, hoping to explore economic opportunities. However, analysts say sustained investment will depend heavily on the government’s ability to guarantee security for foreign nationals and local communities alike.
