U.S. Implores China to Open Borders to U.S. Military Supplies to Afghanistan

President Obama’s decision to increase the number of troops in Afghanistan to 30,000 has seemingly pushed the China-U.S. relationship into complicated territory. According to the “South China Morning Post,” Washington is in discussions with Beijing to open the Xinjiang region’s border with Northern Afghanistan to facilitate the transport of supplies to troops stationed in the area, a move that would require infrastructure investment in Afghanistan and Chinese cooperation.

Because of its unique position, the Wakhan Corridor on the China-Afghanistan border is of great concern and interest, as the U.S plans to utilize this area as a supply line for its troops.

In his interview with the “South China Morning Post,” U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Philip J. Crowley, explained that the greatest difficulty for U.S. troops in Afghanistan is insufficient supplies. The majority of supplies come via Pakistani ports, but this supply route frequently receives terrorist threats. “We are looking at how to create alternative supply lines. This is the something we will be talking to China and neighboring countries about,” he stated.

President Obama brought up the question of opening borders during his previous visit to China, but the issue has not made any progress. Afghan officials are also campaigning China to open 73 km of its border, proposing that the government consider building railroads and highways and use the resulting contacts and dealings to improve trade.

During routine press conference, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Qin Gang faced tough questions about the U.S.’s proposal regarding the Chinese-Afghanistan border. He responded that China will continue to maintain a dialogue and cooperate with the U.S. on this matter and other South Asian issues, while maintaining established communication and agreements.

Obama administration officials announced that extra troops will be sent in order to carry out a more diplomatic military offense, which will attract more investment for long-term support of Afghan reconstruction. This will help stabilize the Afghan political situation after the U.S. military withdraws. The Obama administration had also stated numerous times that it hopes China will play a constructive role in Afghan affairs. In the long run, the U.S. will seek close cooperation with China to increase support, aid and investment in Afghanistan.

Assistant Secretary Crowley explained that despite the effort to enhance military operations in order to gain the upper hand, Afghanistan’s reconstruction after the war will require international agreement and cooperation in terms of infrastructure, organization and economics. He stated that this effort will encompass everything from cultivating a judiciary system to bringing products to market. He also expressed hope for Japan and South Korea to join China in playing their respective roles in Afghanistan.

China’s direct investment in Afghanistan represents a growing trend, with the maximum investment in an Aynak coal mine at nearly $3.5 billion. China is still involved in Afghanistan, helping local citizens construct hospitals and mosques.