MEDIA RELEASE

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER
MINISTER FOR TRADE
ACTING MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
TIM FISCHER

25 August 1998

Unlawful Detention Of Iranians In Afghanistan

The Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tim Fischer, said today that he was deeply concerned at reports that a number of Iranian nationals, including diplomats, had been unlawfully detained by members of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

'I consider that the taking of hostages is totally at odds with accepted norms of international behaviour and I strongly urge the Taliban to release any captives immediately and to ensure their safe passage home,' Mr Fischer said.

'The Australian Government condemns any breach of human rights, including terrorism, and we have asked our High Commission in Pakistan to convey the Government's concerns to Taliban representatives in Islamabad.'

'The Government has asked the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to follow this matter closely, and more generally, to urge all parties in Afghanistan to work towards an enduring peace,' he said.

For further information: 

Mr Fischer's Office: (02) 6277 7420
Mr Downer's Office: (02) 6277 7500
DFAT: (02) 6261 1555