On Sunday the 20th of October the Embassy of the I. R. of Afghanistan welcomed guests and visitors into the Embassy. The Open Day was part of the Windows to the World program; an initiative of the ACT Government to engage participating embassies and high commissions and provide a unique insight to these iconic buildings. 2019 marked the Embassy of Afghanistan’s first time participating in Windows to the World, together with more than 25 other embassies around Canberra. 

The event was a great success and saw over 800 visitors, who were able to enjoy a wide range of activities and gain perspective on Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage. There was live traditional music throughout the day, dry fruits and saffron tea for sampling, delicious traditional food for sale and a range of jewellery, carpets, and clothing on display. There was also an exhibition celebrating 50 years of Afghan-Australia diplomatic relations, alongside traditional artwork and paintings. Guests were also treated to kite-flying and could have their names written in Persian calligraphy, try on samples of national dress and have their photos taken. 

The Embassy wishes to extend its thanks to all volunteers and participants from the Afghan community in Sydney and Canberra for their generous assistance in making the Open Day a success and providing their talents and skills, and to all those visitors who came along to enjoy some of what Afghanistan has to offer. The Embassy looks forward to returning to the Windows to the World program in the future.