Is Afghanistan ripe for development or teetering on the edge of chaos? Sceptics argue that since the fall of the Taliban in late 2001, the peace that was imposed by commitment of foreign troops and billions in aid has been a mirage.
Still, for many war-wary Afghans and resident foreigners, the security situation over the past 12 to 18 months appeared to be gradually improving. Until May, Westerners were beginning to relax, particularly in the capital Kabul, venturing out to restaurants and tentatively lowering their guard.
