Afghanistan’s 88 th Independence Day anniversary was officially celebrated by the Embassy for the first time in Canada on Thursday.

The Embassy hosted a reception at the Cartier Drill Hall, where more than 250 guests heard the Afghan Ambassador thank Canada and specific grassroots and non-governmental organizations for their contributions and help for the Afghan people.

Canada’s Associate Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and interdepartmental coordinator for Afghanistan, Mr. David Mulroney, Spoke on behalf of the Government, reiterating Canada’s continued support for Afghanistan.

The Honourable Bev Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, and The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Pubic Safety, Mr. Leonard Edwards, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, and other Canadian civil and military officials joined esteemed diplomatic representatives from more than 50 nations in the event.

Also present were members of NGOs, academia, media, business and representatives of the Afghan-Canadian communities from the Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa regions.

During his remarks, Ambassador Samad acknowledged the presence of two Afghan female journalists, Ms. Humaira Habib and Ms. Farzana Wahidy, who have recently arrived in Canada on higher education scholarships.

He paid tribute to Canadian sacrifices and assistances over the past six years. He also highlighted the work of non-governmental groups and individuals. The Ambassador also honored Mike Frastacky, a Canadian carpenter, who built a school in Afghanistan, but fell victim to criminal elements last year.

The event also featured Afghan cuisine and traditional music.

Embassy of Afghanistan

September 07, 2007