Former king of Afghanistan dies --- BBC

Zahir Shah was deposed in 1973 and went into exile, but returned to Afghanistan after the fall of the Taleban in 2002. --- "It gives me great pleasure to come back, great pleasure," the monarch said on returning to his country. ---- Many Afghans had a deep love and respect for Zahir Shah, whose lengthy reign was associated with peace, security and modest political reform. --- His 40-year reign saw women receiving education and voting in elections, and a free press. --- After World War II, in which he succeeded in maintaining both Afghanistan's neutrality and its borders, the king recognised the need for modernisation. ---- Mr Shah died at his Kabul residence in the presidential palace compound.