The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Rome,
H.E. Khaled Ahmad Zekriya’s remarks about June 2nd—Italy’s Republic Day—and June 3rd, 2021, the 100th Year Anniversary of the Establishment of Bilateral Ties between Italy and Afghanistan
بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم
Dear Italians and Afghans,
On behalf of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Rome, Italy, once again, I would like to express my warmest congratulations to the great people and government of Italy on the auspicious occasion of the Republic Day, where on June 2nd, 1946, the Italians through a referendum, expressed their will in choosing a Republic over a Monarchy in Italy. For us, the Afghans, we can relate to Italy’ choice in establishing and celebrating their Republic as a national heritage, as we too, have embarked in protecting our own Islamic Republic and the democratic gains of the last two decades in Afghanistan.
This year, the Afghans and the Italians also share another important historical landmark date—June 3rd—the 100th Year Anniversary of the Establishment of Bilateral Ties between Italy and Afghanistan, which took place on June 3rd, 1921. In fact, Italy was among the first Countries to recognize the newly independent Afghanistan. This historical bond between our two nations were further consolidated by the hospitality offered to Afghanistan’s King Amanullah, the founder of our independence, and the last king and Father of the Nation, King Zahir Shah as well as to tens of thousands of Afghans making Italy their home.
In the last two decades, Italy’s proactive involvement in the development of the Afghanistan as well as military and security assistance, which finally led to the signing of the bilateral strategic partnership agreement in 2012, is indicative of this fraternal and enduring relationship between our two nations.
At this juncture, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people and government of Italy for the sacrifices they have rendered both in blood and treasure in Afghanistan.
In view of the pandemic, despite the encouraging developments around the world, both the esteemed embassy of Italy in Kabul and our embassy here Rome, had no other choice, but to postpone the celebration of the 100th centennial. Our embassy in Rome is planning to have the 100th Year Anniversary Celebration along with our National Independence Day during the first week of October, that is if the COVID-19 pandemic does not become an impeding constraint for holding this grand event.
Lastly, we believe that is time for our international and regional partners to stand united as we the Afghans, as a resilient and courageous nation also stand united and ready under one flag in support Afghanistan’s National Defense and Security Forces to pursue peace, and at the same time, protect the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Afghanistan, including safeguarding our republic and democratic achievement of the last two decades. Hence, it is imperative for all of us that instead of uncertainty, we must embrace confidence and unity in protecting our shared gains in Afghanistan.
Thank you.
June 3, 2021