Afghanistan

Its geographic location as an Asian crossroads has rarely been an advantage in Afghanistan's history. The landlocked country has repeatedly been the plaything of powers and divergent interests. The name of this country originated in 1801 as part of the Anglo-Persian Peace Treaty, which was supposed to be a military contribution pact between Persia and Great Britain. But soon the British lost their interest in this treaty. But it was not until 1919 that Afghanistan achieved independence from the British Empire. From then on, the country's numerous ethnic groups led to tribal struggles and eventually to the growing influence of the Taliban. The Taliban's renewed seizure of power came in 2021 after the withdrawal of NATO troops.

• Country data Afghanistan