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Afghanistan–United Kingdom relations facts for kids

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Afghan-British relations
Map indicating locations of Afghanistan and United Kingdom

Afghanistan

United Kingdom
Diplomatic Mission
Afghan Embassy, London British Embassy, Kabul (closed)

The countries of Afghanistan and the United Kingdom have a long and interesting history together. Their relationship goes back to when the British ruled parts of India. It also involves a time when Britain and Russia were rivals in Central Asia, known as the Great Game. The border between modern Afghanistan and what was then British India, called the Durand Line, also played a big part. Afghanistan has had an embassy in London since 1922. However, there was no official Afghan ambassador there from 1981 to 2001.

A Look at History

Britain was very interested in protecting its rule in India. This led to a rivalry with Russia in the late 1800s, known as the Great Game. This competition greatly shaped the relationship between Afghanistan and the United Kingdom.

There were several Anglo-Afghan wars between 1839 and 1919. These wars were important events in their shared past. After nearly a hundred years of British influence in Afghanistan, the country became fully independent in 1919.

Later, the United Kingdom did not get involved in the Saur Revolution, which was a change in government led by communists. However, Britain was against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. The UK also stayed out of the civil wars that happened after the Soviet troops left in 1989.

Where Diplomats Work

Embassy of Afghanistan in London
Embassy of Afghanistan in London 1.jpg
Location South Kensington, London
Address 31 Princes Gate, London, SW7 1QQ
Ambassador Mohammad Daud Yaar

The Embassy of Afghanistan in London is like Afghanistan's official office in the United Kingdom. It is where Afghan diplomats work to represent their country. The building used for the embassy was built in the late 1850s. It was designed by a builder named Charles James Freake.

Afghanistan bought the building in 1925.

Pictures of the Embassy

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