Sydney, 19 August 2019 - The 19^thof August 2019 marked the 100^thAnniversary of Afghanistan’s Reclamation of Independence and was celebrated in Sydney at the NSW Parliament. This celebration was part of a series of events taking place across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji to honour this important milestone, alongside the 50^thAnniversary of Afghan-Australian diplomatic relations. 

The Embassy of the I.R. of Afghanistan was pleased to organise the event in Sydney. The event was attended by numerous leaders and members of the Afghan community, friends of Afghanistan and Australian state officials, including representative of the office of Ms Gladys Berejiklian, Premier of NSW, Mr Anthony John Sidoti, who is the NSW Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans. 

NSW Parliament House recognised the anniversary by hoisting the Afghan flag, and the official events began with all guests joining to recognise the victims of the abhorrent terrorist attack in Kabul on Saturday the 17^thof August. 

The Embassy wishes to express its appreciation to all guests of the event and the ongoing support of Afghan communities in NSW to the Embassy, and their contribution to the promotion of bilateral relations and the mutual friendship between Afghanistan and Australia. It also extends its thanks to the staff of NSW Parliament house for their assistance in making the event a success. 

This 100^thAnniversary of Independence and 50^thanniversary of diplomatic relations draws attention to the ongoing efforts of Australia and its people to promote peace and security in Afghanistan, the contributions of Afghan-Australians who have made Australia their home, and the spirit of mutual

support that binds them together. We each look forward to a future of lasting stability and security as we move forward into what the next 50 years will bring for the Afghan-Australian bilateral relationship, and the next 100 years of Afghan independence.