The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, has appointed Mr Roland Kobia as the Special Envoy of the European Union to Afghanistan.

The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, has today announced the appointment of Mr Roland Kobia as the Special Envoy of the European Union to Afghanistan. The Special Envoy's main task will be to advance the European Union's contribution to delivering lasting peace and prosperity in Afghanistan and in the region.

Mr Roland Kobia, a senior EEAS official and currently Head of the European Union Delegation to Myanmar, will ensure the European Union’s continued engagement in international and regional processes aiming at peace in Afghanistan by coordinating and consulting with all regional, international and non-governmental actors. He will act as the European Union’s representative in relevant fora and processes. He will also ensure regular reporting to the Member States of the European Union.

"Roland Kobia has a long-standing experience of peace and reconciliation processes in Asia and Africa. With his appointment, the European Union confirms its commitment to cooperate with our Afghan friends to bring peace to the country once and for all, after a long conflict which has cost so many lives, as well as to support the stability and the development of the country, the rule of law, and human and women's rights", Ms Mogherini said. "I would also like to thank the current EU Special Representative, Franz-Michael Mellbin, for his outstanding contribution and tireless work in support of stability, peace and reform efforts in Afghanistan over the past four years", she added.

The new Special Envoy will work in close cooperation with the recently nominated Head of the European Union Delegation in Afghanistan, Mr Pierre Mayaudon. Mr Kobia will take up his new role on 1 September 2017.