Ambassador’s Participation at the Waitangi Day 2023, New Zealand

The ambassador of Afghanistan, His Excellency Wahidullah Waissi, had recently visited New Zealand to celebrate Waitangi Day, marking the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Maori chiefs in 1840. During the visit, the ambassador had the honor of meeting with the Governor General at the Diplomatic Luncheon at Russell and the Prime Minister of New Zealand at the Waitangi ground.

The Ambassador discussed current affairs of Afghanistan and dire situation of Afghans, especially girls and women, under the rule of the Taliban. The Governor General of New Zealand expressed her solidarity with the people of Afghanistan during this challenging time. The ambassador emphasised his hope for continued collaboration and friendship between people of Afghanistan and New Zealand, and the importance of cultural exchange and understanding.

Ambassador Waissi also called on Hon Andrew Bayly, member of parliament and co-chair of Afghanistan’s Friendship group at the New Zealand Parliament. Ambassador Waissi has briefed the MP about the situation of human rights, girls education, regional security and Afghans in diaspora. The friendship group of Afghanistan at the NZ parliament was established in March 2020. The group has 12 member MPs.

In addition to his official meetings, the ambassador also took the opportunity to engage with the Afghan community in Auckland city, New Zealand. The Afghan community in New Zealand has grown significantly in recent years and continues to thrive, making significant contributions to the country in various fields. The ambassador was impressed by the passion and dedication of the Afghan community, and expressed his support for their continued growth and success in New Zealand. To date, more than 20 thousands Afghans chose to live in New Zealand since 70s of last century. The New Zealand government has managed to evacuate couple of thousands of Afghans since August 2021.

The ambassador’s visit was a testament to the strong and growing relationship between Afghanistan people and New Zealand, and the efforts being made to promote cultural exchange and understanding between the people of two nations. It was an important opportunity for the ambassador to represent the Afghan people and engage with key leaders and members of the Afghan community in New Zealand.