On October 26, 2017, the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS) organized the launching ceremony for the Farsi translation of the book "China in the 21st Century: What Everyone Needs to Know”. The author of the book is Dr. Jeffrey Wasserstrom, professor of history at the University of California, Irvine. This book has been translated into Farsi/Dari by Besmellah Alizada and Juma Khan Rahyab, and published by the department of publications of the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS).The book provides an essential guide for understanding how China has become a global superpower with unparalleled regional growth.

Mr. Ghulam Jilani Zawak, head of Kabul News, Mr. Mohammad Yusuf Rahnaward, executive head of Confucius Organization and Besmellah Alizada were the speakers at the event. The panelists discussed the centrality of China for regional security, development and investment. The discussion touched on the longstanding historical ties between Afghanistan and China, which have been – and continue to be – both social and economic. At present, China represents one of the key investors in Afghanistan. The discussants called for greater attention to China as Afghanistan strengthens itself as a regional partner.

The event was attended by representatives from the Afghan government, Parliament, civil society, academia, and media agencies. The event was followed by a lively Q/A session.