Former Afghan King Mohammad Zahir Shah

Mohammad Zahir Shah, 92, the king of Afghanistan who emerged from forced exile in 2002 to become the ceremonial "father of the nation" after the Taliban's retreat, died July 23 in Kabul. He had been ill, but the cause of death was not disclosed.

His four-decade rule began in 1933, when he succeeded his slain father as leader of an isolated and desperately poor country. King Zahir enjoyed one of the longest periods on a world throne, but more-powerful uncles and cousins exerted military and political authority in his country.

Nevertheless, King Zahir used his stature as royalty to win development aid from both the United States and the Soviet Union -- a remarkable achievement during the Cold War struggle for influence at the strategic Asian crossroads. -- Former Afghan King Mohammad Zahir Shah - washingtonpost.com
king zahir shah الملك الافغاني : محمد ظاهر شاه

Mohammed Zahir Shah News - The New York Times
BBC News SOUTH ASIA Profile: Ex-king Zahir Shah

Tribute to King Zahir Shah....Baba e Millat... ...