US and China Face Off at the UN over Afghanistan : Just Security

Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun

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Summary
A diplomatic dispute over which country should act as the United Nations Security Council's "penholder" on Afghanistan has become a significant issue between the United States and China. This debate, escalating since late 2024, has implications not just for how the UN engages with the Taliban, but also for China's growing influence in the Security Council.

Traditionally, the U.S. and other Western powers have held the penholder role, which gives them significant control over resolutions. China, looking to assert itself more within the UN, has expressed interest in taking the lead on Afghanistan, a rare instance where elected members have traditionally held this position. This has led to tensions, particularly with the U.S., which firmly opposes China’s involvement.

As the dispute over penholding continues, it raises broader concerns about future Sino-American relations in the Security Council and the UN's ability to effectively address Afghanistan’s issues.


Quote
"What is at stake is not what the UNAMA mandate says, but who has control over the text."