Middle East

Ruined Libraries Rise from the Ashes

Kabul's libraries were no more than targets for missiles in wartime but now a huge effort is underway to restore some of their old glory.

21 Feb 05

Roaring smuggling trade across Afghan border keep Peshawar markets humming.

21 Feb 05

Supporters of the Afghan warlord say they are ready to launch a holy war against the Americans.

21 Feb 05

Disputes over the military command of several provinces are raising tensions in the run-up to next month's grand assembly.

21 Feb 05

Love potions and other traditional mystical remedies are growing in popularity, to the annoyance of many Islamic scholars.

21 Feb 05

Powerful new broadcasting equipment will bring the power of television to areas that have never experienced it.

21 Feb 05

Protest over government's record on pay and employment also hears anti-American sentiments.

21 Feb 05

As expected, Hamed Karzai has been elected head of Afghanistan's transitional government at the grand assembly.

21 Feb 05

The country's smaller ethnic communities are keen to have their say at the grand assembly.

21 Feb 05

Desperate to get to Iran, Afghans entrust their money and lives to smugglers.

21 Feb 05

Support local journalists