Will the world recognise Talibanistan?

Distressing images of journalists displaying injuries sustained after being beaten by the Taliban have underlined global concerns over the hardline Islamist group, and its ability to deliver on promises to protect human rights and guarantee freedom of the press as it forms a new Afghan government.

However, China on Wednesday announced USD 31 million as an aid to Afghanistan, its first after the Taliban seized power in Kabul, as it backed the Afghan militant group’s interim government, saying it is a “necessary step” to restore order and “end anarchy”.

As China and Pakistan welcome the Taliban rule, the big question is whether the rest of the world will recognise Talibanstan.