Russia
The Anglo-Russian Entente of 1907 was an agreement between the United Kingdom and Russian Empire about Persia (modern-day Iran), Afghanistan, and Tibet. It was signed on August 31, 1907, in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The purpose was to resolve their rivalry in Central Asia and counter the German Empire threat of connecting Berlin to Baghdad through a new railroad.

United Kingdom
The convention settled the dispute over Persia. Russia recognized southern Persia as part of the British sphere of influence, and Britain agreed to stay out of northern Persia. Russia also promised not to interfere in Tibet and Afghanistan, and Britain extended loans and political support in return.

|  |  |
| --- | --- |
| Signed | 31 August [O.S. 18 August] 1907 |
| Location | Saint Petersburg, Russian Empire |
| Signatories | * United Kingdom
* Russian Empire
 |

The agreement clarified the boundaries and control of each country in Persia, Afghanistan, and Tibet. It established spheres of influence, respecting Britain's influence over Afghanistan and ensuring non-interference in Tibet's internal affairs. The convention played a role in the formation of the Triple Entente, a coalition between the UK, France, and Russia.

### Background:

The late 19th century saw increased rivalry between the Russian Empire and the British Empire in Central Asia, particularly concerning Afghanistan, Iran, and Tibet. The emergence of Germany as a world power and Russia's defeat in the Russo-Japanese War prompted British and Russian officials to consider resolving their differences in Asia. Talks about an entente had occurred earlier, but resistance in Britain delayed a deal with Russia.

Rise of Germany: Germany's entry into the Triple Alliance in 1882 and its military expansion raised tensions. Members of the Triple Alliance opposed Anglo-Russian influence in Asia. Germany's focus on Europe and limited colonial aspirations in the Middle East allowed it to manipulate regional dynamics.

### Trouble in Persia:

The Persian Constitutional Revolution in 1905 created instability. Britain and Russia discussed dividing Persia into zones to protect their interests. The revolutionaries, facing European and monarchist opposition, realized an Anglo-Russian alliance posed a greater threat than hostility between the two powers. In 1907, Britain and Russia signed an agreement to regulate their interests in Persia.

### Terms of the Convention:

The Anglo-Russian Convention formalized Russian and British spheres of influence in Persia, Afghanistan, and Tibet. In Persia, the agreement divided the country into three zones, with Russia having the north, Britain the southeast, and a neutral zone in between. The Persian government, not consulted, refused to recognize the agreement. Anti-British sentiments grew in Iran, impacting nationalism.

### Afghanistan:

The convention acknowledged Afghanistan as part of the British sphere of influence, and Russia agreed not to attack Afghanistan. In return, Britain granted Russia equal commerce rights and communication with Afghan officials on non-political matters. The terms increased anti-British sentiments in Afghanistan.

### Tibet:

The convention recognized Chinese suzerainty over Tibet. The UK pledged not to engage with Tibet without Chinese approval. The agreement aimed to curb Russia's expansionist efforts threatening India. The Anglo-Russian Convention followed the British expedition to Tibet (1903-1904) and the Anglo-Chinese Convention of 1906, reestablishing China's control over Tibet.