The United Nations office in Afghanistan, the US chargé d’affaires, and the European Union delegation in Kabul each issued separate messages extending congratulations to Afghans on the occasion of Nowruz, marking the first day of the new solar year, despite the day not being officially celebrated this year.
“The UN in Afghanistan celebrates with Afghans the arrival of Nowruz and the onset of spring, a season of renewal, and expresses shared aspirations for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for all Afghans,” the UN office in Kabul stated.
US Chargé d’Affaires Karen Decker shared on X: “Wishing a joyous Nowruz to Afghans worldwide as we welcome spring and a new beginning. With the holiday coinciding with Ramadan this year, may your iftar be enhanced by haft mewa and samanak.”
Similarly, the EU delegation in Afghanistan conveyed their best wishes, saying, “Wishing everyone a joyous and prosperous Nowruz, filled with hope, happiness, and fresh starts.”
“Nowruz Mubarak to all who observe this meaningful day. May the coming year be replete with blessings,” added the EU office.
This acknowledgment comes at a time when, prior to the Taliban’s control over Afghanistan, Nowruz was extensively commemorated as a national holiday. Celebrations included family outings, televised concerts, and a significant event in Balkh province, where attendees performed the Jahinda Bala ritual at the Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif on Nowruz.
However, the Taliban has excluded Nowruz from the nation’s official calendar, choosing instead to mark the beginning of the new academic year on Wednesday, March 20, coinciding with the first day of solar year 1403.
