KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – The Embassy of Afghanistan in Canberra will suspend operations after June 30, 2026, and Australia will not accept any Taliban-appointed diplomats, the Australian government and the embassy said on Friday.
In a joint statement, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said the decision follows consultations between the Australian government and the embassy, which has been managed by diplomats appointed by the former government of Afghanistan.
The statement described the suspension as “not the preferred outcome” but said both sides had reached an understanding on an “orderly and dignified transition” that preserves their positions on Afghanistan without prejudice.
Australia reiterated it has no intention of recognizing or accrediting any Taliban-appointed diplomat, honorary consul, or other representative.
Both parties reaffirmed their non-recognition of the Taliban as the legitimate representatives of the people of Afghanistan and condemned the group’s systematic human rights violations, particularly against women, girls, and dissenting voices.
“We reaffirm our shared commitment to human rights and the dignity of the people of Afghanistan,” the statement said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade thanked Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi for maintaining embassy operations and serving the Afghan-Australian community during this period. It said Australia would continue humanitarian assistance and engagement with the Afghan diaspora.
The department added that, under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, Australia will continue to protect the embassy premises and property after operations are suspended.
The Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) had previously warned that closure could deprive Afghans in Australia of essential consular services, such as identity and travel documents, and undermine support for women’s rights initiatives.
The council described the potential closure as a “major victory” for the Taliban that could have psychological effects on Afghans in Australia, asylum seekers, and Australian personnel who served in Afghanistan.
Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, most of the international community has refrained from granting diplomatic recognition, citing concerns over human rights abuses, ties to terrorism, and the absence of an inclusive government. Russia remains the only country to formally recognize the Taliban, while several regional states maintain limited engagement without offering full recognition.
