The Ministry of Labour & Social Affairs of the Afghan Interim Government declared August 14 a public holiday. The day will commemorate the third anniversary of the U.S. and NATO withdrawal. It also coincides with Pakistan’s Independence Day. This announcement marks the day as a significant milestone in Afghanistan’s history.
According to the official notification, the holiday corresponds to the 10th of Safar al-Muzaffar, 1446 Hijri lunar calendar, and the 24th of Asad, 1403 Hijri solar calendar. It celebrates the “victory of the Afghan people over the American occupation under the Islamic Emirate.”
Afghan Interim Government Prime Minister’s Message
The Prime Minister of the Afghan Interim Government conveyed a message on this occasion. He honored the sacrifices made by interim government forces in ending a 20-year occupation. The Prime Minister framed the defeat of the U.S. and its allies as a “victory of faith and spirituality over materialism.” He marked August 14 as a historic and proud day for Afghanistan.
He emphasized that while the conclusion of the fight against occupation is a moment of pride, it also brings new responsibilities. The Prime Minister called on government officials and the public to work diligently in strengthening the Islamic system, stabilizing the country, and safeguarding the lives, property, and honour of the Afghan people.
Multiple Independence Days of Afghanistan
Interestingly, Afghanistan celebrates two other independence days in addition to this new holiday. August 19 marks the Anglo-Afghan Treaty of 1919, which granted Afghanistan independence from British influence. February 15 commemorates the withdrawal of Soviet troops in 1989, marking the end of Soviet occupation.
Shared Struggle, Shared Future
As both Pakistan and Afghanistan celebrate their liberation from Western powers on August 14, Pakistan observes its 77th year of independence, while Afghanistan marks three years since the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces. These parallel celebrations underscore the shared history and struggles of the two neighbouring nations.
