China Urges Afghan Decision on Bagram Air Base Amid US Interest

Beijing, Sep 19 (PTI) — China has asserted that the issue of the United States potentially re-establishing its presence at Bagram Air Base should be determined by Afghanistan and its citizens.

Responding to U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about reacquiring the strategic facility due to its proximity to China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized respect for Afghanistan's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

"The future of Afghanistan should be in the hands of Afghan people," Lin stated, adding, "Our stress is that hyping up regional tensions does not win support. We hope relevant sides could play a constructive role for regional stability."

Trump mentioned plans to reacquire the air base four years after the chaotic withdrawal of American troops, which followed orders from his predecessor, Joe Biden, as Taliban forces took over Kabul.

Expressing interest in regaining the base, Trump cited its strategic importance due to its location near China, noting, "We're trying to get it back because they need things from us."

The U.S. administration is reportedly in talks with the Taliban’s interim government to renew relations, with Trump referencing Bagram’s value due to its proximity to China, specifically its nuclear weapons manufacturing sites.

China, meanwhile, has forged diplomatic ties with the Taliban-led government, investing in mining and oil extraction projects in Afghanistan.

Trump made his comments while addressing the press alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer as he concluded his visit to the United Kingdom.