The Ministry of Information and Culture said that in the past two years it has prevented the publication of 150 books that were contrary to religious teachings.

The Publications and Bayhaqi Books section of this ministry added that the publication of these books was prevented in Kabul and various provinces.

Abdul Aleem Zanwak Muftizadeh, head of Publications and Bayhaqi Books at the Ministry of Information and Culture, said: "Books that are published must comply with the policy of a system and should not be against our fundamental and cultural values. Such books, totaling 150, were either not suitable for publication or were influenced by foreign factors, especially those related to the American occupation."

Salahuddin, a bookseller, said: "Books that are against the religion of Islam or come from countries like Iran and Pakistan, we are forced to sell them because there is a demand in Kabul."

Nasir Ahmad Amiri, a resident of Kabul, said: "On one hand, it is good that no one has the right to promote another religion, and on the other hand, it is good to allow it so that young people can obtain the information they need about other religions."

Baz Mohammad Shir Zai, a resident of Kabul, said: "In this matter, the views of our young people should be considered because they want to study in various fields, even if it is non-Islamic."

Previously, the Ministry of Information and Culture announced the collection of books contrary to religious teachings in the capital.