Australia will close its embassy in Afghanistan within three days as international troops have started to leave the country. The embassy has been open since 2006. However, the location of the embassy is unknown, due to security concerns.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison expressed alarm over the increasing security situation in Kabul, promising that the embassy would reopen once the situation had stabilised.
“This form of diplomatic representation is common practice around the world. It does not alter our commitment to Afghanistan or its people,” he said.
The Embassy will Resume After the Stabilization of the Situtaion
Moreover, PM Scott Morrison said on Tuesday; “Australia’s expects that this measure will be temporary. Also that we will resume a permanent presence in Kabul once circumstances permit.”
According to The Canberra Times, Australian officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will visit Afghanistan from other locations in the region.
Furthermore, Morrison stated; “The government has been advised that security arrangements could not be provided to support our ongoing diplomatic presence.”
The Labour has Called on the Government
Subsequently, Labour has called on the government to outline the factors behind its decision. To discuss whether consideration of other possibilities took place. Possibilities such as; co-locating a diplomatic presence with other like-minded countries.
The prime minister earlier stated that Australia would continue to support Afghanistan through its diplomatic presence, development cooperation, and people-to-people contacts.
Labour senator Penny Wong stated, “The Morrison administration should explain how it will now fulfil these obligations.”
“We are particularly concerned that this critical decision was made without bipartisan input following 20 years of Australian military, diplomatic, and development participation in Afghanistan.”
The embassy in Kabul will close on Friday, May 28. Australia has around 80 troops in Afghanistan who will leave the country by September.
Last, despite everything, this closure of the embassy would have a negative impact on Australia’s ability to deliver and monitor the ongoing development partnership with Afghanistan.
