Commemoration of the 106th Anniversary of Afghanistan’s Restoration of Independence in Canberra

On Sunday, 24 August, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Canberra hosted a remarkable ceremony marking the 106th anniversary of Afghanistan’s independence.

The event was graced by the vibrant presence of Afghans residing in Australia, friends of Afghanistan, diplomats, and retired Australian soldiers, who together brought a special spirit and dignity to the occasion. The tricolour flag of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan was raised to the heartfelt tunes of the national anthems of Afghanistan and Australia, a powerful moment symbolising the living spirit of resistance, freedom, and unity of the Afghan nation. The flag was hoisted by the Ambassador, accompanied by four Afghan girls representing four of Afghanistan’s ethnic communities.

The ceremony continued with remarks by His Excellency Wahidullah Waissi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. In his address, the Ambassador described Afghanistan’s independence not only as a historic achievement but also as a responsibility for the present and future generations. He stressed that the spirit of independence and resistance against tyranny still runs in the veins of the Afghan people. He added:

“Today, under this blue sky and before this sacred flag, we are not only commemorating a historic day; we are reviving the very soul and identity of Afghanistan—a country that has, time and again, stood tall, fought, and risen anew for an eternal cause.”

Following this, Mr. David Savage AM, a retired Australian soldier and long-time friend of Afghanistan, addressed the audience. As the first civilian casualty for Australia during his mission in Afghanistan, he spoke of his memories and experiences working alongside the Afghan people, underscoring the deep and enduring ties between the two nations. His presence was a clear message of solidarity and friendship between Australia and Afghanistan.

The ceremony also featured Ms. Kimia Yousofi, Afghan Olympian and representative of Afghanistan’s young generation, who delivered a message of hope and resilience. In her inspiring remarks, she highlighted that Afghanistan’s future lies in the hands of its youth—a generation that, despite immense challenges, continues to stand firm and remain hopeful.

The program, hosted by Khalid Amiri and Taranum Jafari, was enriched by the voluntary participation of Afghan youth, all proudly dressed in traditional national attire.

The commemoration concluded with the planting of three saplings by ambassadors and guests, symbolising hope for peace, stability, and a brighter future for Afghanistan. Guests were then welcomed to a warm and friendly reception, where they enjoyed traditional Afghan food and drinks and found an opportunity for dialogue and solidarity.

This gathering once again affirmed that the flag and the Embassy of Afghanistan are not merely symbols but reminders of the honour, resilience, and hope of a nation that will never abandon its aspiration for freedom and independence.

To visit the photos of the ceremony, click HERE.