Afghanistan: Death of Afghan-Australian Governor

Australia deeply regrets and deplores the death last night in a suicide bombing of the Governor of Afghanistan’s Paktia Province, Hakim Taniwal.

Mr Taniwal was an Afghan-Australian who had returned to Afghanistan to help in the rebuilding of his former homeland. As a provincial governor, Mr Taniwal was making an important contribution to restoring peace and stability. His death is a blow to Afghanistan and a sad loss to Australia, his adopted country.

The Taliban have reportedly claimed responsibility for Mr Taniwal’s death. Australia is determined that the progress achieved in Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban will continue. An Australian Defence Force Reconstruction Task Force has begun deploying to Oruzgan Province, in Afghanistan’s south, and will be fully operational before the end of the year.

I extend my condolences to Mr Taniwal’s family, friends and colleagues in Australia and Afghanistan.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555