Afghans display pride in their religion, country, ancestry, and above all, their independence. Like other highlanders, Afghans are regarded with mingled apprehension and condescension, for their high regard for personal honor, for their clan loyalty and for their readiness to carry and use arms to settle disputes.

Afghan’s cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavour and aromatic spices. The dietary staples are rice and bread (naan). Other basic foods include cheese, beef, lamb, chicken, eggs, tea and numerous fruits and vegetables. As in other Muslim countries, livestock must be slaughtered according to Islamic rites (halal).

Afghanistan’s most popular art is poetry. The country’s poetic heritage spans many centuries and cultures. Poems traditionally celebrate heroic virtues, romantic love and religious piety. The most important Pashtu poet is Kaushal Khan Khattak, a 17th century chieftain and warrior who also wrote books on philosophy, medicine and ethics.

99% being Muslim (Sunni Muslim 80%, Shi'a Muslim 19%, other 1%)