Russia becomes first country to recognise Afghanistan’s Taliban regime. Will China follow? - Experts monitoring the Taliban’s new diplomacy push in Asia say China could follow suit, paving the way for wider recognition of the militant group and ending its pariah status on the world stage.

Russia said on Thursday it had accepted the credentials of a new ambassador of Afghanistan, making it the first nation to recognise the Taliban government of the country. In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow saw good prospects to develop ties and would continue to support Kabul in security,

After Russia became the first country to officially recognise the Taliban government, China has welcomed the move, fuelling speculation it may be next. As regional powers deepen ties with Kabul, questions mount about the global legitimacy of Afghanistan’s isolated rulers.