Afghanistan is a landlocked country located in South Asia, bordered by Pakistan to the south and east, Iran to the west, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north, and China to the northeast. The country features a diverse landscape, including rugged mountains, vast plains, and desert regions. The Hindu Kush mountain range runs through the central part of Afghanistan, creating a natural barrier and influencing the climate. The climate in Afghanistan varies significantly by region, with arid conditions in the south and more temperate weather in the north. Major rivers, such as the Helmand and Kabul, provide essential water resources for agriculture. The country's geography has played a crucial role in its history, affecting trade routes and cultural exchanges throughout the centuries.