Australia Condemns Assassination

Media Release

New York

20 September 2011

The Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd condemns the assassination of the Head of the High Peace Council and former President of Afghanistan, Professor Burhanuddin Rabbani.

"Professor Rabbani was dedicated to advancing the peace process, and I am appalled at his murder by those seeking to derail the creation of a stable Afghanistan," said Mr Rudd.

"Australia offers sincere condolences to Professor Rabbani's family, friends, and the Government and people of Afghanistan.

"We also offer our sympathies to the Head of the High Peace Council Secretariat, Massoum Stanekzai, who was injured in the attack.

"I am confident this cowardly attack will not deter the vital work being done by the High Peace Council to bring about a peaceful and secure Afghanistan," Mr Rudd said.

"The Government of Afghanistan can continue to count on Australia's strong support for its efforts to achieve a lasting peace."

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