This article explores the complex interplay between orthodox Islamic monotheism and various folk traditions in Afghan society, specifically examining practices that may manifest elements interpreted as polytheistic. While Afghanistan is predominantly Muslim, with a strong adherence to the principle of Tawhid (the oneness of God), centuries of cultural exchange and indigenous beliefs have fostered a rich tapestry of local customs. This conceptual study, drawing upon theological texts, historical accounts, and observations of common traditions, identifies and analyzes practices such as the veneration of saints and shrines (Ziarats), beliefs in local spirits and supernatural entities, and the use of amulets and talismans. The analysis critically discusses how these traditions, while often viewed by adherents as culturally permissible or as means of seeking blessings from God through intermediaries, can be interpreted as forms of shirk (polytheism) from a strict monotheistic perspective. The study highlights the tension and coexistence between these belief systems, underscoring the dynamic and often syncretic nature of religious practice in Afghan society. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for appreciating the nuanced religious landscape and for effective engagement with local communities.

This report explores the complex and multifaceted intercultural and spiritual interactions between the peoples of Central Asia and the Far East, with a particular focus on the historical processes surrounding the transmission, adaptation, and transformation of Buddhism across these regions. Drawing on manuscript evidence, philological studies, and comparative doctrinal analysis, the study highlights the role of the Sutra of Golden Light as a central vehicle for cultural integration and religious dissemination. It examines how Buddhist texts, especially in their Sogdian, Uyghur, Chinese, and Oirat versions, not only reflected the philosophical core of Mahayana Buddhism but were also reshaped by local linguistic, cultural, and spiritual contexts. The report also addresses the syncretic nature of these translations, the role of Buddhist rituals in statecraft (particularly in Tang China), and the use of sacred texts as instruments of moral, social, and political legitimacy. In doing so, it demonstrates how Buddhism served as a bridge between diverse civilizations and contributed to the historical development of religious thought and intercultural dialogue across the Eurasian continent.

Angola is an important maritime country in southern Africa with abundant fishery resources. For a long time, the Angolan government has regarded fishery as a pillar to promote national economic development, increase employment and ensure food security. Since its independence, the Angolan fishery has experienced a long period of low tide due to the domestic political situation. With the end of the civil war and the improvement of national policies, the Angolan fishery has shown new development trends in recent years. Influenced by factors such as rich fishery resources, a vast consumer market and national policies, the Angolan fishery has significant development advantages and broad prospects.

The study of the relationship between China and the peoples of Central Asia, which have a deep history, shows its relevance in the modern conditions of world development. Despite this, the study of Chinese civilization, politics, economy and culture of China is one of the priority topics in academic and analytical circles in the Central Asian countries. In the modern conditions of globalization, economic cooperation between the two sides is increasing. China is increasingly present in the socio-economic space of Central Asia. Analytical centers of China play an important role in this process.

This study explores the market system of the Bukhara Emirate from the late 18th to early 20th centuries within the context of transregional economic relations and Eurasian history. Positioned at the crossroads connecting East and West, Bukhara functioned as a vital transit hub and redistribution center for goods between India, China, Iran, Russia, and Central Asia. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining historical-economic analysis, social anthropology, and source criticism. It examines market infrastructure, trade specialization, pricing mechanisms, social stratification of traders, and institutional regulations. Particular attention is given to the interplay between domestic trade and international product circulation, as well as the role of intermediaries and administrative controls. This study fills historiographical gaps and contributes to understanding how traditional markets integrated into the global economy.

The article describes some Chinese written sources of the Qing era (1644-1911), which significantly supplement and expand the general information about the territories and peoples of China during the reign of the Manchu dynasty. Information about the authors of the works and the structure of written sources is provided. For example, "Qingdai Tongshi" (清代通,, The general History of the Qing Dynasty) Xiao Yishan describes the events of the entire Qing era. Information about the peoples of Central Asia is contained in the second book in the second section, devoted to the reign of Qianlong. The fundamental work, which belongs to the category of official sources "Qing Shilu" (清实录, True records of the Qing Dynasty), is a collection of chronologically arranged facts and official documents. Since the volume of the essay is huge, we are interested in extracts from this source containing materials on Xinjiang. "Qing Shilu" by Xinjiang Ziliao Jilu" (清实录新疆资料辑录, Collection of materials on Xinjiang from "Qing Shilu") The 2016 edition consists of 8 volumes, totaling 4,596 pages. Information about Kazakhs and Buruts (Kyrgyz) is contained in chapter two. Among the writings of a private nature, we note "Siyu shuidao ji" (a description of the waterways of the Western Region) Xu Song (1781-1848), a fundamental work on the historical geography of the Western Region of the Qing period.

All of these works have yet to be thoroughly investigated, as the sources contain little-studied information about the peoples and historical geography of Central Asia, on the socio-political and economic situation in Central Asia during the Qing era.