The Intelligence from The Economist Reeling and dealing: how to engage the Taliban
Sep 2, 2021
Ed McBride, Deputy Foreign Editor for The Economist, shares his expertise on the Taliban's control in Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal. He discusses the diplomatic challenges of engaging with the Taliban while exploring their potential alliances with global powers like China and Russia. Additionally, McBride tackles the ongoing African swine fever crisis in China, which threatens the pork industry and market stability. He also reflects on Judy Chicago's impactful activist art, highlighting its role in addressing social injustices.
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Engaging with the Taliban
- While some argue for completely ignoring the Taliban, engagement is necessary.
- America needs to prevent terrorism and protect Afghan citizens, requiring interaction.
Leverage After Withdrawal
- America's leverage increased after troop withdrawal, primarily through financial control.
- The Taliban previously had no incentive to negotiate, knowing the US was leaving.
Conditional Aid
- America should use incremental, reversible steps tied to specific goals when aiding the Taliban.
- Focus on helping ordinary Afghans, like keeping schools and clinics open.