Eternal Afghanistan

"It is wrong to think of Afghanistan as a warlike realm," says French journalist Olivier Weber, who has made documentary films, written a dozen books and won several awards, including the Albert Londres Prize. "One searches in vain in the annals of its history for some predisposition to violent conflagration. To be sure, dramas and tragedies have tended to beset the country. [..] But there remains an abiding sense of hope, an avid quest for openness, like an insatiable longing."

Iranian photographer Reza shows this colourful and mystical land, with its peasants, poets and children, its majestic scenery and ancient timeworn buildings. A special correspondent for several publications, including National Geographic, Reza is also a founder member of Aïna, a French NGO working with UNESCO to help revive Afghanistan's media.

It will be a long time before foreign travellers can again enjoy the famous Afghan hospitality. Until then, this book is here to show the spirit of the Afghan people. The photos, often presented in a way that recalls Persian miniatures, are accompanied by a commentary. "It's wrong to think of Afghanistan as a warlike realm," says French journalist Olivier Weber, who has made documentary films and written a dozen books. "One searches in vain in the annals of its history for some predisposition to violent conflagration. To be sure, dramas and tragedies have tended to beset the country. [..] But there remains an abiding sense of hope, an avid quest for openness, like an insatiable longing." Iranian photographer Reza shows this colourful and mystical land, with its peasants, poets and children, its majestic scenery and ancient timeworn buildings. A special correspondent for several publications, including National Geographic, Reza is also a founder member of Aèna, a French NGO working with UNESCO to help revive Afghanistan's media. [from UNESCO website]