The pull out of the U.S. and our allies presents many challenges and opportunities; unfortunately, there is no real upside for the U.S., but it could present China with the opportunity to further corner the market on rare earth elements and create more problems for India. Not is all positive for the Chinese as the cost of mining will involve considerable expense; the minerals are in areas with little if any infrastructure and the current rail lines are week.
Additionally, they will have to face the same tribal challenges as the U.S. and their record of inhumane treatment of their own Muslim minorities could put them at deadly odds with the various Islamic militant groups within Afghanistan. Although Pakistan, another player in the area has been moving closer to China, will elements of the Pakistani Intelligence Service will willing to give China a free hand in the area? Pakistans support of the Taliban will be a key element in the future of the area. Given the internal politics of China at this time, the last thing that President Xi needs is a military problem in the area.
This excellent article discusses these and several other factors which will make the exploitation of the area by China a challenge. Will China go the same way as the British, Soviets and the U.S., or will they be able to create success in Afghanistan? Given the drawback of some counties which have seen the true cost of co-operation with China, it would be wise for China to move carefully in the future in the area. For a full analysis, please go to https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/taliban-redux-opportunities-and-challenges-for-china-in-afghanistan/?_se=YmtsYXp1cmEwMUBnbWFpbC5jb20%3D
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