THE SINO-AFGHAN RELATIONS IN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This paper provides a brief information about history of relations between China and Afghanistan from ancient past to the present era. The collected data relies both on primary and secondary sources. From past to the present China-Afghan relations have always cordial and friendly. Trade relations between both countries date back to the ancient times of Han dynasty 3^rd century BC and trade route was the beneficial silk road. Currently both countries have embassies in Beijing and Kabul, and both share a 76 km narrow border. Apart from sharing a border they also share same historical sites and shared same religion and cultural heritage centuries ago. there was a time when some of the well-known provinces of Afghanistan was part of Chinese protectorate. moreover, silk road is another important element which links the two states together. Trade, immigration and cultural exchange have taken place through silk road for centuries between both nations. Not to mention, relations between China and Afghanistan have been smooth till 1933, however, in 1934 it was slightly deteriorated. Still, soon after that it was again back to normal. China has provided Afghanistan millions of dollars in the form of grants and non-reimbursable grants, apart from that a long-term initiative of reconstruction and development in Afghanistan has been planned by China. China is trying hard to make its neighbor state stable politically as well as economically which at last will have positive impacts on the well-being of herself.