China has stepped up diplomatic efforts in Afghanistan most notably with the Taliban after the U.S. military withdrawal from the nation.

China even suggested that the group rapidly retaking large parts of Afghanistan would play “an important role in the process of peaceful reconciliation and reconstruction” of the country.

China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, called the Taliban “a pivotal military and political force,” urging their leaders “to hold high the banner of peace talks”.

“The meetings focused on political, economic and security issues related to the two countries, the current situation in Afghanistan and the peace process,” tweeted Mohammad Naeem, a spokesperson for the Taliban.

The Taliban also confirmed that Beijing had given assurances to expand “co-operation with the Afghan people” and to not “interfere” in its affairs.

Taliban leaders have stepped up their international diplomacy in recent months, seeking global recognition for when they hope to return to power.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on an official visit to India, warned on Wednesday that Afghanistan would become a “pariah state” if the Taliban takes control by force.

“The Taliban says that it seeks international recognition, that it wants international support for Afghanistan. Presumably, it wants its leaders to be able to travel freely in the world, sanctions lifted, etc,” he told reporters.

“The taking over of the country by force and abusing the rights of its people is not the path to achieve those objectives.”

He say however that China’s possible involvement in Afghanistan could be “a positive thing” if the goal of a “peaceful resolution of the conflict” was truly genuine.