The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Afghanistan stood along the ancient Silk Road, connecting traders and travellers between China, Central Asia, and India for centuries.

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021 and announced an interim government under the name Islamic Emirate the following month.

Afghanistan holds vast, largely untapped mineral wealth, including major deposits of copper, iron ore, and lithium.

Agriculture is the backbone of Afghanistan’s economy and supports the livelihoods of around 80% of the population.

Afghanistan is divided administratively into 34 provinces, each headed by a governor.

Kabul stands more than 1,700 metres above sea level, making it one of the world’s highest capital cities.

Buzkashi, Afghanistan’s traditional national sport, involves horsemen competing to carry a goat carcass or its modern substitute toward a goal.

Afghanistan’s national flag has changed 20 times since the beginning of the 20th century, with most changes involving major differences in its colours or design.

Afghanistan has one of the world’s youngest populations, with approximately 63% of its people under the age of 25.

Afghanistan is known for its high-quality agricultural products, including saffron, pomegranates, almonds, apricots, and raisins, many of which are exported internationally.

Ahmad Shah Durrani founded the modern Afghan state in 1747 after uniting several Pashtun tribes.

Dari and Pashto are Afghanistan’s two official languages, while several other languages are spoken across the country.