CHINA cannot afford a neighbourhood in chaos because that would greatly affect its geo-economic engagements and priorities in the region. China is also worried that if any of its neighbours is caught in turmoil, it could become China’s strategic, political and economic liability.
Apparently, this is a major factor behind China’s growing involvement in Afghanistan’s reconciliation process. This is also linked to China’s geo-economic approach. Conflicts always invite international attention, and in some cases international interventions, which slow down the pace of economic development.