Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

As minister representing, I do not have a full brief in terms of all the questions contained in Senator Brown's primary question, but I can advise him in response to some of the issues he has raised.

As everyone in this chamber knows, it is a difficult time in Oruzgan province. We have seen this in the most recent incidents resulting in the wounding of three Australians and two Afghan soldiers, and we all send our sympathies to them and their families. As I say, it is a very difficult time. We are aware of recent press reports indicating that the governor, Governor Sherzad, is seeking another position in the Afghan government. I cannot speculate on those reports. I have no further information other than an awareness of those reports.

What we do know is that Australia has appreciated the valuable work that Governor Sherzad has undertaken in Oruzgan across a full spectrum of issues and he remains a valued partner of Australia's forces there. During his time as governor we have made substantial headway in training the Afghan National Army 4th Brigade. Security in the province has improved in large measure due to his willingness to work closely with us throughout the province. He does remain a consistent voice for the people of Oruzgan and is focused intently on making improvements in the fields of good governance and the rule of law. I am advised that, as a valued partner, the government would not like to see him leave his position; however, this is ultimately obviously a matter for the Afghan government.

As I have indicated, we do not have any information other than the reports that you referred to. But the Australian contingent in Oruzgan continue to have strong and positive relations with the Afghan government and Afghan regional officials, and obviously they are currently experiencing quite a difficult time, particularly as a result of that recent attack. (Time expired)