The Afghan Embassy has been asked to shut operations in Australia from 30 June, 2026. The embassy continued to be manned by the pre-Taliban ambassador and staff even after the Taliban ousted the pro-US regime in Kabul. The big Afghan Diaspora in Australia is expecting an uncertain future for various services given by the mission, unless Canberra allows the Taliban government to operate it, which looks unlikely soon.
A joint media statement by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Canberra and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia says, “In light of the prevailing circumstances, following consultations instigated by the Australian Government, and in the context of constraints beyond the control of the Embassy, given concerns the situation was not able to continue in perpetuity, we advise that the Embassy’s operations will be suspended after 30 June 2026.
While this was not the preferred outcome, an understanding has been reached regarding an orderly and dignified transition, without prejudice to the Embassy’s or the Australian Government’s principled position on the situation in Afghanistan.”
It adds: “The Australian Government has no intention of accepting a Taliban-appointed diplomat, Honorary Consul or other representative.”
About the current Taliban government the statement says, “We do not recognise the Taliban as the legitimate representatives of the Afghan people. We strongly condemn the Taliban’s persistent systematic abuses of human rights – particularly against women and girls, and voices of dissent. We reaffirm our shared commitment to human rights, and the dignity of the people of Afghanistan.”
