The Embassy has continued to serve the Australian Afghan community since the takeover of Kabul by the Taliban in August 2021. The Australian Government thanks HE Wahidullah Waissi, Ambassador of Afghanistan, for his dedicated service over this difficult period. Likewise, the Embassy thanks the Australian Government for holding the Taliban accountable for their egregious abuses of human rights and disregard for international law, and for its principled support for the people of Afghanistan as well as its continued humanitarian assistance and engagement with the Afghan Australian community.
The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Canberra and the Australian Government stand with the people of Afghanistan. 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.
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.
Beyond 30 June 2026, the Australian Government, as the host nation, will continue to respect and protect the premises of the Embassy, together with any remaining property and archives, in accordance with international law, including the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961.
The Australian Government has no intention of accepting a Taliban-appointed diplomat, Honorary Consul or other representative.
