Ottawa- March 9, 2021

The U.S. State Department awarded posthumously seven Afghan women who were assassinated by terrorists in 2020. Fatema Natasha Khalil, General Sharmila Frough, Maryam Noorzad, Fatima Rajabi¸ Freshta, Malalai Maiwand, Freshta Kohistani are recognized for their dedication to women's empowerment and serving their communities in Afghanistan.

Furthermore, Ms. Habiba Sarabi, a former minister and governor and a member of Afghanistan's Peace Delegation, was awarded the Simone Veil Prize by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of France. She was recognized for her leadership in implementing reforms to advance women's education and social and political participation in Afghanistan.

We express our heartful congratulations to Ms. Sarabi on this achievement. We also pay tribute to all victims of the terrorist attacks in Afghanistan.