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The son of Mullah Fazlullah, chief of Pakistan’s Tehreek-i- Taliban, and 19 other insur- gents were killed in a US drone strike in Afghanistan on Wednesday morning, Pakistani media reported. Pakistan’s Dawn news reported that the TTP has confirmed the drone attack on its facility in eastern Kunar province and the killing of Abdullah, son of Mullah Fazlullah. The report said that The Chief Executive of the Gov- However, he said the group must has so far refrained from partici- surrender that’s being offered to in a text message sent to the ernment of National Unity Abdul- first lay down arms, cut ties with pation in direct peace talks with the Taliban, but a dignified pro- media in Bajaur Agency on lah Abdullah reiterated the govern- the terror groups and networks, the Afghan government and insists cess for reaching a political frame- Wednesday evening, the insur- ment’s peace offer to Taliban and renounce violence. Abdullah on direct talks with the US. In the work. And again, he emphasized gent group said that 20 suicide group in a bid to end the ongoing further added that the government meantime, Principal Deputy As- that this is negotiations without violence through reconciliation. is committed to share the details sistant Secretary Alice Wells of the preconditions, a process that The Haqqani network -- which a crucial role because there was bombers were killed, and six Speaking during a gathering orga- with the public regarding any peace Bureau of South and Central Asian would lead to a cessation of vio- others wounded in the drone continues to enjoy significant sup- an apparent link between the nized on the eve of International agreement to be reached with the Affairs told reporters on Monday lence, halt the ties with terrorism, port inside Pakistan, has been re- Haqqani network operating in attack. They said that a drone Women’s Day, Abdullah said the Taliban group as he assured that that President Ghani offered a dig- and respect for the Afghanistan fired missiles at Ghazi Camp sponsible for several high-profile Afghanistan and Pakistan, the government is prepared to recog- no deal will be concluded in secret. nified process during the Kabul constitution,” she added. terrorist attacks in Afghanistan, a general argued. The issue had run by TTP in Kunar near the nize Taliban as a political group. This comes as the Taliban group Process-II summit. “This is not a (KP) Pakistani border, Dawn News top NATO commander said on creates some tension between reported adding that the TTP Wednesday. “We still see there is the US and Pakistan, Pavel said, commander of Bajaur chapter, a significant support, or at least adding there had been some Gul Mohammad, who was provision of safe haven, to Haqqani positive moves by Islamabad. head of Ghazi Camp, was also network (in Pakistan),” General “But still from time to time, killed in the attack. Another Petr Pavel, chairman of the NATO we see cross border clashes commander named Ustad Ya- Military Committee, told the De- between Pakistan and Afghan- seen, who trained suicide fense Writers Group. “The second istan.” Pavel said he had seen bombers, was also among the in command in the Haqqani net- media reports about Russian dead. Pakistan’s Express Tri- At least four policemen were killed wounded in the attack. The attack base. Two other attackers then ly two and a half hours,” sources work is effectively driving the Tal- arming the Taliban. “Up till after insurgents attacked a police stared at about 8:30pm local time stormed the police compound and said. But Gen. Abdul Raziq, Kan- iban today. A number of high-pro- now, we do not see significant bune also reported that a Paki- file attacks in Afghanistan in the progress between NATO and stani intelligence official said base in southern Kandahar prov- at police headquarters in Spin Bold- clashed with the security forces, dahar police chief says that only ince on Wednesday night, security ak district of the province after a according to the sources. “The two one border policeman was killed last couple of months were deliv- Russia on how to handle the the drone struck on the day the ered by the Haqqani network,” situation in Afghanistan. training of the bombers was sources confirmed. In addition, suicide car bomber first detonated attackers were killed by security in the attack. The Taliban claimed three other policemen were his explosive close to the police forces but the clash lasted for near- responsibility for the attack. Pavel claimed. Pakistan had an im- “We are calling on all the actors about to be completed. portant role to play in the Afghan in Afghanistan, including Rus- (ToloNews) peace process, Pavel noted, ex- sia, to take a responsible stand plaining that meant creating con- to contribute to the stabilisa- ditions where all opposing forces tion and to a peaceful resolu- would see their chance at the ne- tion of the problem. “Russia, gotiating table rather than on the China, India and Pakistan all battlefield. “That is what we should be part of this solution. would like to achieve. Whatever Up till now, we do not see any The government’s programme ety, the United Nations in Afghan- nancing for women to reduce the work to achieve the Sustainable ghan women is essential to reduc- differences are between the cen- significant problem with Rus- to empower women economi- istan said on Thursday. The UN gap between women and men and Development Goals in Afghani- ing poverty, inequality, and vio- tral government and the Taliban sian when it comes to Afghan- cally is a key step forward to said it encouraged the government foster gender equality. While mark- stan, including addressing the needs lence against women,” said Toby would be better handled at the ne- istan,” General Pavel conclud- opening more doors for their to prioritise investment in educa- ing International Women’s Day, the of urban and rural women and girls. Lanzer, acting head of the UN in gotiating table rather than on the ed. participation throughout soci- tion, healthcare and business fi- UN welcomed the government’s “Empowering urban and rural Af- Afghanistan, said in a statement. battlefield,” he said. Pakistan had (Pajwok) FRIDAY .MARCH 09, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

AFGHANISTAN TIMES Regional interferenceisthreatening Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy Libya's futureas onestate Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] Regional interference is the most significant obstacle Email: [email protected] to a sustainable peace and prosperous future in Libya. www.afghanistantimes.af Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Advisory editorial board Saduddin Shpoon, Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal Graphic-Designers: Edriss Akbari and Bilal Yusufi Marketing & Advertising: Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0708954626, 0778894038 Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press

By Guma El-Gamaty As a result, foreign military inter- ters and other military aircraft to to leave this prolonged state of The constitution says ference and infiltration through the the Libyan forces of Haftar, in vi- conflict behind, and prosper as a borders became almost a daily oc- olation of UN-backed internation- unified and peaceful country. Article 117 currence during this unstable peri- al sanctions against the regime. Another way to unity od. Foreign interference of this kind Haftar's LNA, which is aligned As Italian researcher Federica Saini The President shall appoint one of its members as Chief Justice of the Supreme is most prominent in Libya's with the Tobruk-based House of Fasanotti put it "Libyans will con- Court. Members of the Supreme Court, except under circumstances stated in Article southern Fezzan region as the Representatives and refuses to rec- tinue to be their own worst ene- One Hundred Twenty Seven of this Constitution, shall not be dismissed till the end When Libya declared its indepen- country's southern border with ognise the UN-backed government mies-unless they, in partnership of their term. dence as a constitutional monar- Niger, Chad and Sudan is some in Tripoli, has taken control of with the international community, chy under King Idris Sanusi on 1500km long, highly porous and large swaths of territory in eastern can figure out a political model that December 24, 1951, it became one has hardly any governmental con- and central Libya over the last cou- benefits from their diversity rath- of the first former European colo- trol. This makes it very easy for ple of years, with significant help er than trying to override it." nies in Africa to gain independence foreign armed groups to infiltrate from the UAE. But Haftar could Former US Ambassador to Libya Editorial and achieve autonomy through the the area. One of the groups that not have established his military Debora Jones has recently warned United Nations. The United King- are active in this region is a Chad- control without the support of that unless Libyans make the nec- dom of Libya, as it was officially ian rebel group called the Front for Egypt as well, his other major Arab essary compromises to form a uni- known back then, consisted of Alternation and Concord in Chad backer. Egypt, especially in the last ty government that can exercise three provinces: Tripolitania in the (FACT), which is believed to be four years, has provided Haftar's sovereignty over the entire coun- west, Cyrenaica in the east and fighting alongside local groups op- forces with "training and the de- try, "they will be forced to accept Pseudo war on terror, Fezzan in the south. Each prov- posed to Khalifa Haftar. But livery of all kinds of ammunition, the inevitability of remaining the ince had its own regional govern- Haftar has also relied on the sup- weapons and military equipment, playing field of external regional ment, but they were united as one port of foreign armed groups in the including attack helicopters and powers in a state of endless uncer- causes and implications country under a federal system. Fezzan region. For example, fight- fighter jets". It has also launched tainty". Since the revolution in Initially, the newly formed Liby- ers from the Justice and Equality direct air raids against strongholds 2011, every single attempt to form an state was very poor, had nearly Movement (JEM), a Sudanese op- of Haftar's opponents, especially a sustainable central government he menace of terrorism has been plaguing the globe like a no infrastructure to base its devel- position group, are believed to be in the city of Derna and elsewhere. in Libya has failed. Now, it is time opment on and was relying heavi- fighting alongside forces loyal to A divided Libya for Libyans to face this reality and disease without panacea, and made it so intricate and intrigu ly on UN aid to feed its popula- Haftar in this region. The sad reality today is that Liby- adopt a different approach in or- tion. But only 10 years later, the Late last month, the situation in ans are deeply divided along re- der to save their country. It has ing for the West – the protagonists of this ghastly war – to discovery of oil transformed the the Fezzan region escalated further gional, tribal and political lines. become almost impossible for the annihilate the pillars of terrorism which marches on unabated in country considerably and made it when foreign fighters participated Also, as result of continuous for- central authority in Tripoli to main- one of the region's most prominent in clashes between local groups just eign interference, the country is de- tain border security, unity, and developing countries. This pseudo war is taking lives of hundreds. oil produces. But Libya's new- outside the of Sabha. Clashes be- facto divided into three parts, with sovereignty of a vast country that The spiraling chaos in these countries raise the quintessential ques- found riches also brought about tween the fighters from the Sixth each region battling with different has a small population. So per- new problems. International oil Brigade, an armed militia attached but equally grave problems. The haps, instead of a top-down ap- tion of whether terrorism is unconquerable or peace would ever producing companies were not to Haftar's Libyan National Army supposedly legitimate and inter- proach, what is needed, and may prevail. The US as a superpower has to maintain balance in the happy with the country's federal (LNA), and rival fighters from the nationally recognised government well work, is an approach that will structure and demanded to deal Tebu ethnic group left six civilians is sitting in the capital Tripoli in deconstruct and then reconstruct world by suppressing extremism which threatens security of other with a single central authority rath- dead and wounded many others. western Libya. The east is com- the Libyan state from the bottom countries, in particular where it has military bases such as Afghani- er than several local governments According to media reports, sev- pletely under the control of up. This means real decentralisa- when doing business with the king- eral foreign armed groups were ac- Haftar's military, mainly as result tion. stan. But after the US enters a country under any excuse – be it to dom. As a result, Libya abandoned tive in the fighting. The elected of the military assistance provid- The power to govern, and the oil institutionalize democracy in dictator regimes or to intervene in an the federal system and unified its Mayor of Sabha, Hamed Al-Khay- ed by the UAE and Egypt. The revenue that is necessary for de- three provinces under a central ali told reporters that "There are south is effectively a no man's land velopment, must be transferred internecine conflict – the occupied land becomes at times largely government in 1963. Ironically, al- Chadian and Sudanese fighters with many foreign and local from the central government to infested with the phenomena of terrorism and flare-up of ambitious most 50 years after precipitating with their flags on attacking the groups, including Haftar loyalists, elected local authorities. Over 100 its transformation into a unitary Libyan Defence Ministry's Sixth jockeying for control. The increas- municipalities that have been yet notorious fighters and an increasingly downgraded rule of law. state, Libya's vast oil resources are Brigade in Sabha and they aim to ing presence of Chadian and formed across Libya since 2014 can Afghanistan, Iraq and some ‘Arab Spring’ countries very well ex- now a threat to its future and its control the city and the entire Sudanese armed groups, estimat- be used as the basis of this new unity. Over the years, the Libyans south." The Chadian forces were ed in their thousands, is threaten- system, or the country can be di- perienced it. failed to strike a social contract reported to have temporarily tak- ing to significantly change the de- vided into larger regional authori- In the past three years foreign terrorists backed by Islamabad that would guarantee the fair dis- en over key sites in the city. But mography of southern Libya and ties. These regional or local author- tribution of the country's wealth. foreign actors are not only active making it increasingly difficult for ities, with help of transferred oil have been infiltrating into Afghanistan to deteriorate security situa- Also, the regional powers that in Libya's impoverished and con- any Libyan central government to revenues, can help re-build Libya tion and topple the democratic government. Evil designs of Paki- want to benefit from Libya's re- flict-ridden south, Libya's east is ever regain control of the region. from the bottom up. These local sources are refusing to stop inter- devastated by a slightly different Ultimately, the Libyans them- authorities can also solve the coun- stan’s dreaded intelligence agency too spew miseries on Afghans. fering in the country's affairs. In form of foreign interference. The selves - and especially Libyan lead- try's ongoing security problem, by the words of the former US am- UAE and Egypt in the east ers - are responsible for this situa- forming local security forces which NATO alliance’ assistance to defend the country against Pakistan’s bassador to Libya, Deborah K In June 2017, a report by the UN's tion. Driven by greed and self-in- can later be amalgamated into a animosity and hostility has been very fractional and inconsiderate Jones, "given its geography and Libya Sanctions Committee re- terest, they failed to agree on a national force. energy resources, Libya matters vealed that the United Arab Emir- social contract that would distrib- This bottom-up, decentralised ap- too. They had refused to help Afghan security forces in the embat- too much for others to ignore it." ates, as part of its ongoing sup- ute Libya's wealth and resources proach may well succeed in bring- tled Helmand derail militants with air raids. Chad and Sudan in the south port for Khalifa Haftar, was oper- fairly among the country's many ing sustainable peace to Libya and Following the February 2011 rev- ating a military base in Libya's Al groups and factions. But some Lib- preserve it as a unified state. How- Islamabad’s harboring and feting of terrorists and its perpetual olution, Libya entered into a state Khadim, about 100km east of yans went even further and agreed ever, this ambitious plan can only state of denial coincides with Washington’s blind eye to the ground of transition and the last seven Benghazi. This is currently the larg- to become "proxies" for regional work if regional powers like the years have been characterised by est military base the UAE has out- powers. They invited foreign mil- UAE end their destructive inter- realities, making it very obvious that the US is gaining from the instability and violent conflict in side its borders, and it allows the itaries and armed groups into their ference in Libya's affairs. Other- plague of terrorism. The United States is deliberately keeping close the country. There has not been a emirate to have a significant and own country for personal gain. wise, the breakdown and disinte- strong central authority that can permanent military presence in Now, these foreign forces are the gration of Libya, and the suffering ties with Islamabad and fooling the world under the pretext of war maintain security and protect Lib- Libya. The Sanctions Committee most significant threat to Libya's of the Libyan people, will contin- against terror. Washington has sided with the wrong country in the ya's long borders (about 4500km report also established that the future and unity. ue for many years to come. war on terrorism, because there is no denying that Islamabad is with six neighbouring countries). UAE has supplied attack helicop- But there is still a way for Libya (Aljazeera) sheltering notorious Qaeda leaders in its safe houses, located in garrison cities. Terrorism, in essence, serves as an excuse to pro- long their stay in the occupied countries. The West is injecting imposed wars on conflicted nations to de- vour their wealth – simply put, to absorb what’s left of their oil Pathway to Violence sources - and to sell their weapons. The perception that terrorism has become a pretext for the modern world to sell weapons seems cent percent true. From sand bags to light and heavy armored vehi- cles, the protective gears have occupied minds of politicians and security officials of the third world countries as they feel they are no safer in their home countries where once people were at peace. Asia and Africa as many countries in the two continents are de- pending on foreign donations and support on war on terror. Though, the United States has military bases in many of these countries, but terrorism keeps marching on and becoming more devastating rather than lessening. Subscription Rates Fee Categories Afghanistan Times Annual Afg: 3600 at your door step For fast delivery service Six Months Afg: 1800 Afghanistan Times seeks the names, addresses of your International Organization $200 per year organizations and the number of copies you want. FRIDAY .MARCH 09, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Even as the Electronics and IT gies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Ministry has set an ambitious tar- internet of things (IoT), digital get of making India a $1-trillion payments, digital education and e- digital economy in the coming five healthcare. to seven years, it is not going to be But people tracking the digital sec- a cakewalk, especially as a profit- tor feel that the country is at a na- able business model is yet to be scent stage in developing a profit- developed for new-age technolo- able business model for digital gies and emerging digital ecosys- themes like e-education, e-health- tems. According to experts, achiev- care, digital financial systems or ing the $1-trillion digital economy cybersecurity. Also, there is no tag is not a certainty and the gov- regulatory environment for such ernment needs to make the right digital ecosystems. “The govern- policies and further execute them ment needs to build a collabora- properly if it wants to move to- tive business model with the pri- wards that goal. Without any such vate sector in order to get invest- commitment and faster execution, ments, as well as innovation in India could only achieve an eco- such fields,” an expert said. nomic value of digital technologies The government also knows the to the tune of $500 million or $600 challenges, and is collaborating million in the next 5-7 years. with the private sector to under- India’s digital and IT industry, in stand the needs and what could be its current form, is primarily driv- the supporting policies. Electron- en by the IT and IT-enabled ser- ics & IT Minister Ravi Shankar vices and is estimated to stand at Prasad had undertaken a few meet- $150 billion, followed by financial ings with IT honchos regarding the services at $50 billion and electron- issue. The ministry had also roped ics manufacturing at $40 billion. in McKinsey & Co to prepare a However, going forward, the fo- road map for increasing the pace cus will be on start-ups, financial of dig. technology and new-age technolo- (BBC)

POLAND’S SHORT-TERM ECONOMIC

OUTLOOK The International Monetary Fund on Wednesday proffered options FAVOURABLE: to sustain Nigeria’s economic re- covery, warning that despite exit- ing recession recently, the coun- EU try’s economy remained vulnera- ble to shocks. After contracting for five consecutive quarters since January 2016, the National Bu- ABUJA – THE Minister of Bud- per cent.And higher still from the reau of Statistics said in its sec- get and National Planning, Senator 2nd Quarter, when it grew by 0.72 ond quarter 2017 gross domestic Udoma Udo Udoma, yesterday percent.The numbers clearly show product (GDP) report that the said that he presented a memo to that the economy has fully exited country’s economy had recovered the Federal Executive Council, recession.” Also briefing, the Min- with a new 0.55 per cent growth FEC, on the recent release of eco- ister of Niger Delta, Pastor Usani rate. The NBS data showed that nomic performance of the country Uguru Usani said the council also the new growth rate (year-on- in the last quarter which he said approved the redesign of section year) was 2.04 per cent higher showed that the Gross Domestic five of East – West Road meant to than the rate in the corresponding Product (GDP) grew by 1.92 per- link Oron in Akwa Ibom to Cala- quarter of 2016 (-1.49 per cent) cent. Senator Udoma who stated bar in Cross River State. He said this while briefing State House cor- that the first contract awarded for Poland’s short-term economic out- and higher by 1.46 per cent points recorded in the preceding quarter. respondents said, the growth was section five all together was unim- look remains favourable, with higher than that of the previous plementeable On his part, Minis- growth strong and the financial The figures were revised to –0.91 per cent from –0.52 per cent due quarter, when the economy grew ter of Defence, Brigadier-General sector stable, the European Com- by 1.40 per cent and 0.72 per cent Mansur Dan-Ali presented the sta- mission has said in a report. to revisions to crude output for March 2017. The IMF said the in the second quarter, which he said tus of the implementation of ap- Photo: image4you/pixabay.com/ showed that Nigeria had fully ex- proved capital projects and CC0 Creative Commons recovery came on the back of new to 15.1 per cent year-on-year by employment. Although it com- Bank of Nigeria; improvements in foreign exchange measures by ited recession. According to him, achievements of the Ministry from Photo: image4you/pixabay.com/ January 2018, from 18.5 per cent mended the country’s strides in tax administration, and significant “I presented a briefing to the Fed- 2015 to 2017. He said the presen- CC0 Creative Commons government, rising global crude oil at December 2016. But, at the con- implementing a National Econom- improvement the business environ- prices, attractive yields on gov- eral Executive Council today the tation covered the strategic poli- “Economic growth is strong, the clusion of its 2018 Article IV Con- ic Recovery and Growth Plan, the ment. In 2017, the World Bank most recent Gross Domestic Prod- cies of the Ministry which is to financial sector is stable and there ernment securities, a tighter mon- sultation on Monday, the Execu- IMF said the government was still ranked Nigeria as one of the top etary policy and increased re- uct and other related economic per- build and maintain flexible, com- are no short-term risks to fiscal tive Board of the international fi- required to initiate urgent, compre- 10 reforming economies in the formance numbers as released last pact and highly trained Armed sustainability,” the commission serves to a four-year high level of nance agency in its assessment re- hensive and coherent policy ac- world, having moved up 24 places about $43 billion as at last Febru- week by the National Bureau of Forces capable of defending the said in its Country Report Poland port on Wednesday said the re- tions to curb these vulnerabilities. in ranking from 169th position to Statistics (NBS). “You will recall territorial integrity of the nation. 2018, published on Wednesday. ary. Other factors include policies forms, which inspired the coun- The progress in the economy, it 145th out of 189 countries in its to contain inflationary pressures, that the Nes indicated that in the The minister said his brief also “The economy has been growing try’s exit from recession, failed to noted, showed in the beginning of Ease of Doing Business Report. last quarter of 2017 the economy covered the serviceability of the robustly. Domestic demand, espe- with economic growth reaching impact non-oil non-agricultural a convergence between official and However, the IMF identified low- had continued its positive growth military platforms, operational cially private consumption, has 0.8 per cent in 2017, driven main- growth, lower inflation close to parallel market rates in foreign ex- er crude oil prices, which stood at trajectory by growing by 1.92 per readiness, future and projections been the dominant driver of growth ly by recovering oil production single digits, contain banking sec- change windows as a result of tight $62.35 per barrel on Wednesday, cent. This is higher than the previ- and the way forward. over the last few years. This was capacity, while inflation declined tor vulnerabilities or reduced un- monetary policy by the Central and tighter external market. ous quarter when it grew by 1.40 (AP) particularly evident in 2016 and 2017.” The commission said, how- ever, that investment remained slug- gish until mid-2017. But it added: “Strong private consumption has been supported by a buoyant la- bour market, increased fiscal trans- fers and record-high levels of con- sumer confidence.” After increas- ing by 4.6% in 2017, Poland’s real GDP is forecast to grow by 4.2% in 2018 and 3.6% in 2019, among POLICIES ARE EFFECTIVE: PM the highest rates in the EU, the re- port said. “An increasing utilisa- The latest recognition by the In- IMF report once again put Ma- he said in a Twitter post today. my has shown resilience and con- tion of EU funds should result in ternational Monetary Fund (IMF) laysia on the right track to achieve The IMF has commended Malay- tinued to perform well despite ex- higher investment, in particular once again proves that Malaysia's a high-income nation status and sia for its strong and resilient eco- ternal shocks, while fiscal consol- public investment,” the commis- economic policies are effective and praises our resilience and strong nomic performance, underpinned idation proceeded. Progress was sion added. will continue to drive the country economic performance." "Our eco- by accommodative monetary pol- made towards achieving high-in- (BBC) to success, Prime Minister Datuk nomic policies are effective and will icy and gradual fiscal consolida- come status and improving inclu- Seri Najib Tun Razak said. "The continue to drive us to success!" tion. "In recent years, the econo- sion," it said. (CNN) Sri Lanka’s Chief FTANegotiator says export market diversification key for long-term economic growth

On the invitation extended by the India and China, addressed the Director General of the Depart- negotiating team of the three FTAs rent position related to the three National Chamber of Exporters Council of the National Chamber ment of Commerce and a former negotiated with Singapore, India, FTAs. He stated that in regard to (NCE), K. J. Weerasinghe Advisor of Exporters (NCE) of Sri Lanka Ambassador to the European and China from the inception of the proposed Economic and Tech- to the Ministry of Strategy De- at its last meeting, to elucidate the Union, with substantial expertise negotiations, and later replaced Dr. nology Co-operation Agreement velopment an International Trade, important aspects of these FTAs, and experience in the area of Trade, Saman Kelegama as the Head of (ETCA) with India which seeks and Chief Negotiator of the Gov- and particularly the FTA with Sin- having represented Sri Lanka in the Government Negotiating to expand the coverage of the ex- ernment, related to the free trade gapore which was signed recently. many overseas Trade destinations. Team, after his demise. At the out- isting FTA which is currently lim- agreements (FTA) with Singapore, K. J. Weerasinghe is a former He served as a member of the trade set Weerasinghe outlined the cur- ited only to trade in goods. RSA warns that most citzens feel locked out of key economic decision making Most citizens feel locked-out from economic decisions made by key Society of Arts (RSA) calls for more if they formally included fellow Britons through bodies like the Bank of England and HM Treasury, a new study warns 'double devolution', citizens' juries 'jury service' or participatory budgeting. The two-year — with only 13 per cent in the North East saying they have any influ- and participatory budgeting to re- qualitative study to engage a group of citizens in eco- ence over central government. 72 per cent report 'little' or 'no' influence build trust. But Building a Public nomic policy found that those involved felt much more over central government on Brexit, despite vote to 'take back control', Culture of Economics, the final able to apply economic issues to their lives. But cru- new survey reveals. People in the North East feel the least (13 per cent) report of the RSA’s Citizens’ Eco- cially, it also found that the economic experts involved influence in the UK over central government, but the most (42 per cent) nomic Council, finds half (47 per thought the experiment helped them make more informed influence over local councils: decentralisation is essential. The Royal cent) would trust decision-makers decisions, understand citizens’ perspectives FRIDAY .MARCH 09, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Officials with the California De- to sell these types of shellfish. The partment of Public Health (CDPH) products sold by certified harvest- issued a warning on Wednesday ers and dealers are subject to fre- advising consumers against eating quent mandatory testing to moni- mussels, clams or whole scallops tor for toxins. PSP toxins affect sport-harvested by from San Fran- the central nervous system, pro- cisco and San Mateo counties due ducing a tingling around the mouth to dangerous levels of toxins. The and fingertips within a few min- advisory stated that sport-harvest- utes to a few hours after eating ed bivalve shellfish in those two toxic shellfish. These symptoms counties were testing for danger- are typically followed by loss of ous levels of paralytic shellfish balance, lack of muscular coordi- poisoning (PSP) toxins. The natu- nation, slurred speech and difficul- rally occurring PSP toxins can ty swallowing. In severe poison- cause illness or death in humans. ings, complete muscular paralysis Cooking does not destroy the tox- and death from asphyxiation can in. The Department of Public occur. Consumers can get the most Health wants to be clear that the current information on shellfish shellfish toxin warning does not advisories and quarantines by call- apply to commercially sold clams, ing CDPH’s toll-free Shellfish In- mussels, scallops or oysters from formation Line at 1-800-553-4133. approved vendors. State law per- For additional information, please mits only state-certified commer- visit the CDPH Marine Biotoxin cial shellfish harvesters or dealers Monitoring Web page. (AP)

An Australian nurse who sensed complete heart blockage – the re- tal in New York. “When nobody he was having a heart attack took sult of a developing heart condi- else is around, what do you do? necessary measures to save his tion. A second EKG confirmed the This person seemed to have quite own life. The 44-year-old man, fact that the man was indeed suf- good experience in emergency care, whose name has been withheld for fering from a heart attack. Using based on their confidence in man- security reasons, was the only the Emergency Telehealth Service aging this severe situation.” God- medical professional on duty at a (ETS), he emailed the results to a bout also praised the nurse for nursing post in Coral Bay, West- doctor and connected to an emer- opting for tenecteplase, which he ern Australia, when he started ex- gency physician who was willing believed was “crucial to dealing periencing chest pain and dizzi- to help him out. Next, he inserted with these sorts of emergencies”. ness, South China Morning Post intravenous (IV) lines in both his According to RxList, the internet reported. Since the next medical arms and self-administered medi- drug index for prescription drugs facility was 150 kilometers away cations such as aspirin, blood thin- and medications, “TNKase® A KILLER flu pandemic could be tems crippling under the pressure and no one else was around to help ners, painkillers and tenecteplase, (Tenecteplase) is indicated for use poised to sweep the globe “tomor- and the collapse of the global econ- him out, he decided to treat his a clot-dissolving drug. “It was in the reduction of mortality asso- row,” killing as many as 33 million omy. And what could cause such own heart attack. The first thing quite genius to be able to do all ciated with acute myocardial inf- people in its first 200 days. A cat- devastation, on a global scale? “The the man did was perform an elec- these things,” said Brandon God- arction (AMI). Treatment should astrophic shift in the flu virus most likely culprit will be a new trocardiogram (EKG), which re- bout, vice chair of the emergency be initiated as soon as possible af- could wipe out 300 million peo- and unprecedentedly deadly mu- vealed that the male nurse had a department at Lenox Hill Hospi- ter the onset of AMI symptoms.” ple, a leading flu expert has warned. tation of the influenza virus,” he The warning comes as vicious out- said. “The conditions are right, it breaks sweep across the United could happen tomorrow.” Flu vac- States and Britain during the north- cinations attempt to ‘predict’ the ern hemisphere’s winter. One of next season’s outbreaks. But the New Mexico these unusually deadly strains first viruses they don’t anticipate can emerged in Australia last year, and step into the gaps left by those has since been dubbed “Aussie they block. Picture: Istock w om an b lam es Flu”. Officially designated H3N2, Flu vaccinations attempt to ‘pre- this variant has proven resistant dict’ the next season’s outbreaks. to the latest flu vaccine and has But the viruses they don’t antici- failed d r u g t est become the most common circu- pate can step into the gaps left by lating. It’s also proven particular- those they block. Picture: ly deadly to the elderly. IstockSource:istock Flu pandem- ‘Aussie Flu’, along with another ics happen once in a generation, on 'm ed ical strain, ‘Japanese Flu’, are being professor Robert Dingwall, anoth- blamed in a more than 40 per cent er flu expert, told The Sun Online. surge in flu-related deaths in the He explained that for a pandemic m et h ,' US and UK. Dr Jonathan Quick, to happen, there needs to be a “dra- chair of the Global Health Coun- matic shift” in the flu virus — cil, said the rapidly shapeshifting something we can expect to see r ep or t says flu virus is “the most diabolic, roughly every 20 to 40 years. The hardest-to-control, and fastest- last pandemic hit in 2009-10 when spreading potential viral killer swine flu emerged in Mexico, while known to humankind.” Describing the deadly Spanish flu pandemic what sounds like scenes from a of 1918 claimed up to 100 million horror film, Quick warned in The lives — infecting a third of the Daily Mail of starvation, medicine world’s population. supplies running low, energy sys- (BBC) Children and adults who spend a lot of time outside in the summer may be less likely to develop mul- tiple sclerosis years later, a U.S. study suggests. Sun exposure is Ear ly r esear ch thought to lessen the risk of MS, a chronic disease in which a person's immune system targets nerve cells su ggest s a in the brain and spinal cord, lead- ing to damage. It is estimated Can- ada may have among the highest prevalence of MS in the world. p h on e case While the disease is common, little is known about its causes. But for more than 10 years, sun exposure has been thought to be m igh t b e ab le linked to MS risk. Previously, re- searchers focused on how UV-B rays from sunlight seem protec- t o m easu r e tive during childhood years. Now, University of British Columbia A New Mexico woman attempted ficials said the label even appeared neurology professor Helen Trem- to trick a probation officer by blam- fake — without a glossy appear- lett and her co-authors have taken ing her failed drug test on a pre- ance and “slightly fuzzy” letter- blood p r essu r e a broader view, extending the as- scription for “medical meth,” a lo- ing, according to the report. The sociation into adulthood. In cal website reported. Ginger probation officer called Sharpe’s Wednesday's online issue of the Sharpe, 34, was arrested after she doctor who denied prescribing the journal Neurology, Tremlett and violated her probation when she medication. “I have never pre- her team report combing through failed her drug test in late Febru- scribed methamphetamine,” the data on 151 women with MS and ary, the Albuquerque Journal re- complaint said, according to the 235 others of similar age without ported. Sharpe attempted to fool Albuquerque Journal. Sharpe later the disease who were all partici- the probation officer by claiming admitted trying to blame the drug pating in the Nurses' Health Study her doctor prescribed her metham- test on prescribed meth and said so much if you were exposing your- B rays, which depended on the lat- phetamine, the newspaper said. To her “friend was convinced she based in Boston. The long-running self to direct sunlight. It was just itude and altitude of where they U.S. study is one of the largest in- make her claim more legitimate, would get away with it.” Sharpe going out in the summer that was lived and the average cloud cover Sharpe allegedly placed a fake la- was on probation after pleading vestigations into risk factors such associated with a reduced risk," for the location. Prof. Helen Trem- as diet, hormones, and environ- bel on a prescription bottle read- guilty to forgery charges last year. Tremlett said in an interview. In lett says her findings suggest that ing “methamphetamine 5 mg tab- She faces additional forgery and ment for major chronic diseases in the study, subjects were divided health behaviours through until women. "We found that just gen- lets.” But the officer wasn’t fooled identify theft charges after the lat- into three groups based on low, early adulthood can alter your risk by Sharpe’s attempt to pass the est incident. erally going out in the summer was moderate and high exposure to UV- of developing MS. (AFP) a beneficial thing and didn't matter illegal drug as “medical meth.” Of- (CNN)

A new smartphone device allows people to easily measure their blood pressure without a cuff squeezing their arm. It’s still too early to tell if the tech works accurately, but if it does, it could enable more people, FDAclearsworld'ssmallest mechanical heart valve especially in developing countries, to check if they’re at risk for heart The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded approval of the Masters Series Heart Valve with disease. The device, described in a study published today in Science Hemodynamic Plus (HP) Sewing Cuff (Abbott) to include the 15-mm valve size, making it the smallest Translational Medicine, consists of a 3D-printed case attached to the mechanical heart valve approved in the world. Until now, pediatric patients have had limited replacement back of a smartphone. When a person presses a finger on a button-like heart valve options because of their small size. The Masters Series 15-mm HP valve represents an important sensor, an app is able to calculate blood pressure, according to the treatment option for these patients, the FDA said in a statement. "While larger replacement heart valves have study. But the device was tested on so few people — the vast majority been approved for years, there is an unmet need in young pediatric patients, especially newborns and infants, of them with normal blood pressure — that it’s impossible to say with congenital valve defects who may be too small to use currently-marketed heart valves," said Jeff Shuren, whether its measurements are accurate, according to several experts. MD, director, FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health. The product is a rotatable, bileaflet valve High blood pressure, or hypertension, can cause strokes, heart attacks, designed for implantation in the aortic or mitral position. It consists of two semi-circular discs that open and and kidney failure. But measuring blood pressure is notoriously diffi- close in response to blood pressure changes during the heartbeat, similar to a patient's own valve. The Masters cult. Simple things like being stressed, drinking a coffee, or dangling Series Mechanical Heart Valve was first approved in 1995 for patients with a diseased, damaged, or malfunc- your legs off an exam table can lead to inaccurate measurements. Plus, tioning aortic or mitral heart valve, the FDA notes. The device is also approved for use in replacing previously arm-squeezing cuffs are clunky, not portable, and they can be painful to implanted aortic or mitral prosthetic heart valves. (WP) older patients or impractical for people with obesity. FRIDAY .MARCH 09, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Australian scientists, led by Aus- tralian of the year Michelle Sim- mons, have made a significant step in creating a world-beating, single- atom quantum computer. Simmons and her Australian team announced on Wednesday they had built quan- tum bits, known as qubits, from single phosphorus atoms in sili- con, that could communicate and correlate with each other. Quan- tum computing is a field of science that aims to replace the building blocks of traditional computing, known as bits, with quantum par- ticles. While classic bits can have a value of only 0 or 1, quantum bits can exist in multiple states at once. This means they can be thousands of times more efficient and poten- tially revolutionise computing. A working quantum computer could solve, in minutes, a problem that would take a classic computer thousands of years. Simmons said a process known as “entangle- ment” was crucial to this develop- ment. Entanglement allows one demonstrated in silicon with sin- bigger, but they are limited by their bits, set in November last year quantum particle to communicate gle atoms, both of which provide a coherence. You get coherence times with qubits made of aluminium. On with and affect the state of anoth- much higher accuracy and reliabil- becoming really long the smaller Monday, Google announced they er, which allows them to transfer ity. “In the silicon field, nobody you can make them – and single had created a 72 qubit computer – information at any even more effi- has yet demonstrated that in those atoms are the smallest you can go.” a record for total qubits, but not cient rate. Simmons’s research single atom systems,” Simmons Silicon qubits, according to Sim- entangled. Both developments proved the qubits the team devel- told Guardian Australia. “The sin- mons, are the best long term op- come as physicists try and reach oped were correlating with each gle atom systems are the ones tion for quantum computing. Qu- what is known as “quantum su- other, which was a promising sign showing the longest coherence bits with low levels of coherence premacy” – the point at which a of entanglement. While other qu- times and very high accuracies. are prone to errors and are too un- current quantum computer can bits have previously been entan- “Other qubits are physically big- reliable for calculations. The cur- outperform a standard supercom- gled, it has never successfully been ger and you can scale them to be rent entanglement record is 10 qu- puter. (BBC)

COLUMBIA N AS A fin ds satellite, REMOVES r ea lises it h a s lost THOMAS Korean researchers have devel- current blockchain system is af- of exchange, according to Rutgers oped a new blockchain system, fected by three major problems _ University professor of Econom- JESSELL, called "PureChain." They said it consensus time delay, slow trans- ics Michael Bordo and Dartmouth RENOWNED will resolve major problems involv- action speed and user verification. College professor of Economics th e softwa r e a n d kit ing the current blockchain system But the PureChain system, which Andrew Levin. Other merits of and may be applicable to central utilizes physical unclonable func- CBDC they mentioned included NEUROSCIENTIST, bank digital currencies (CBDC). tions (PUF), appears to have suc- "its security as a store of value and The research team _ comprised of cessfully resolved those problems. its stability as a unit of account th a t ta lk to it FROM HIS POSTS experts from Korea Advanced In- "It is a realistic blockchain tech- for economic and financial trans- stitute of Science and Technology, nology that can be applied to actions." PUF is an industry-prov- Columbia University on Wednes- Kyung Hee University, security CBDC," said Han Ho-hyeorn, a en technology with physical prop- day removed a top neuroscientist R&D company ICTK Holdings Kyung Hee University professor erties that are impossible to clone. from his posts and announced (ICTK) and blockchain and cryp- who has led the research team for PUF features unique random val- plans to dissolve his lab after an tocurrency service firm Epito- the past year. CBDC would ues that can be compared to indi- internal investigation uncovered meCL _ held a press conference in strengthen the efficiency of the vidual fingerprints or DNA. Be- violations of “university policies Seoul, Thursday, to announce the payments system as it could serve cause its inimitable key values can- and values.” The scientist, Tho- new system. The team said the as a practically costless medium not be leaked. (AP) mas Jessell, a professor of bio- chemistry, biophysics and neuro- science, is one of the world’s fore- most researchers into the basic bi- ology of brain cells. His work at U.S.spacecompaniesaimto Columbia focused on how senso- ry and motor neurons coordinate movements. Dr. Jessell, 66, was a winner of the prestigious Kavli helpBrazil rocket baselift off Prize for Neuroscience in 2008 and by launching satellites one at a time has been a fellow of the Royal So- on smaller rockets, cutting costs ciety of London since 1996. He and wait time for clients. “Our vi- was a director of the Kavli Insti- sion is to launch hundreds of Vec- tute for Brain Science and a direc- tor rockets into orbit to satisfy the NASA has announced it will try is indeed IMAGE up there. In this systems used in the IMAGE Mis- tor of the Mortimer B. Zuckerman growing market for microsatel- to wake up the “zombie satellite” update, dated Monday, the Amer- sion Operations Centre no longer Mind Brain Behavior Initiative, lites,” said Vector Vice President IMAGE, unexpectedly found ican space agency said “observa- exist, and other systems have been both at Columbia. In a statement, Alex Rodriguez, who made a De- working by an amateur sat-spot- tions from all five sites were con- updated several versions beyond Columbia said that it “has ended cember visit to Alcantara coordi- ter. Magnetosphere scanner IM- sistent with the radio frequency what they were at the time.” In the administrative positions of Dr. nated by Boeing. “We are closer to AGE went silent, and was pre- characteristics expected of IM- other words, it doesn't have the Thomas Jessell and will be wind- the equator and have an excellent sumed dead, back in 2005. Then AGE. Specifically, the radio fre- electronics and software to hand ing down the Jessell lab.” The de- site for launching microsatellites,” this month, while looking for the quency showed a spike at the ex- that are compatible with whatever cision followed “an investigation said Brigadier Luiz Fernando Agu- US military's failed Zuma satellite, pected centre frequency, as well the bird is transmitting and expect- that revealed serious violations of iar, coordinator of the Brazilian Air skywatcher Scott Tilley caught a as side bands where they should ing to receive. Agency eggheads university policies and values gov- Force’s space program, comparing signal from the missing scientific be for IMAGE.” The Goddard bo- will have to figure that out before erning the behavior of faculty mem- the Alcantara site with Kourou. bird. As we reported yesterday, the ffins next need to undertake what anything more can be done, such bers in an academic environment,” Alcantara has radars, a runway and rediscovery of IMAGE was ten- the agency called “significant re- as sending instructions to the craft. the statement said. We’ll bring you a seaport to unload equipment, tatively confirmed by NASA's verse-engineering” to capture and If NASA can decode data from the stories that capture the wonders along with plenty of open land to Goddard Space Flight Center, analyse the probe's communica- satellite, it will then try to, by re- of the human body, nature and the store rockets and build a liquid which said it would use the Deep tions. “The challenge to decoding mote control, turn on the satellite's cosmos. You agree to receive occa- oxygen plant if needed, he said. A Space Network to verify the ob- the signal is primarily technical,” payload “to understand the status sional updates and special offers previous attempt at a U.S.-Brazil- servation. That's now happened, the announcement explained. “The of the various science instru- for The New York Times's prod- U.S. companies eager to tap into the fast-growing market for low-cost ian space partnership was scuttled and Goddard boffins are certain it types of hardware and operating ments.” ucts and services. satellite launches could become the first customers when Brazil’s Al- in 2003 when the technology safe- cantara space center near the equator opens as a commercial spaceport, guards agreement faced resistance executives and Brazilian officials said. Aerospace titans Boeing Co and from the leftist government of Lockheed Martin Corp in December visited the Alcantara space center, former President Luiz Inacio Lula but the Brazilian space agency’s launch site is especially attractive to da Silva and was thwarted by Bra- smaller firms because its equatorial location cuts fuel costs by a third. zilian lawmakers. The new effort Digital currency prices fall after Still, Brazil’s aim of becoming a hot new hub in the space industry will is expected to pass easily in a more depend on negotiating a technology safeguards agreement (TSA) with conservative Brazilian Congress. the United States to protect sensitive American space launch and satel- While the market for launches of lite technology. Without it, no U.S. rocket can blast off from the South large geosynchronous satellites has American country. Brazil wants to attract customers by marketing itself solidified, the Space Enterprise SECwarns about exchange dangers as the cheaper alternative to Kourou, the European spaceport in neigh- Council, which represents U.S. boring French Guiana, which mostly launches big satellites. Brazilian industry from launch services to The values of many digital curren- and IOStoken took the biggest hit curities laws. These platforms tors that they are regulated or meet officials are hoping to complete a U.S. TSA this year that would facili- satellite manufacturers, has said the cies took a tumble after the U.S. with a value decline of more than should either register themselves the regulatory standards of a na- tate the opening of the commercial spaceport. On Feb. 22, U.S. and expanding microsatellite sector Securities and Exchange Commis- 22 percent over the last 24 hours. as a national securities exchange or tional securities exchange.” The Brazilian government representatives, along with space companies from could experience up to 600 launch- sion (SEC) said on Wednesday, According to the SEC, digital cur- be exempt from federal protection. SEC notes that many cryptocur- both countries, held a conference call with a White House official who es for satellites under 110 pounds March 7, that platforms used to rencies are deemed as investments, “The SEC staff has concerns that rency exchange markets claim strict was asked whether the Trump administration would agree to a TSA (50 kg) between now and 2022. trade digital currencies need to be or securities, because each digital many online trading platforms ap- standards regarding trade, but in- with Brazil, according to a person on the call. The safeguard accord Alcantara could capture 25 per- registered. Bitcoin dropped 6.65 coin has a value that rises and falls pear to investors as SEC-registered vestors should be aware that these could be ready this year if the U.S. State Department gets negotiating cent of that market, according to percent to $10,082 after the warn- like stock. Even more, many plat- and regulated marketplaces when standards are not equal to or meet permission, according to industry representatives. Tucson, Arizona- the council, which has said a U.S.- ing, Ethereum fell 7.55 percent to forms for swapping digital curren- they are not,” the SEC states. the same standards enforced by an based Vector Launch Inc, which specializes in small rockets, appears Brazilian partnership would give $756.29, and Bitcoin Cash cies for cash or other cryptocur- “Many platforms refer to them- SEC-registered national securities eager to launch from the Brazilian site. The company wants to undercut both countries an edge in the fast- dropped 9.14 percent to rencies fall under the “exchange” selves as ‘exchanges,’ which can exchange. big payload specialists like billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk’s SpaceX growing segment. (CNN) $1,095.77. Waltonchain, Hshare, umbrella as defined by federal se- give the misimpression to inves- (AFP) CALIFORNIANSKEEPATTACKINGDRIVERLESS CARSANDWE'RENOTSUREHOWTOFEEL Like something out of a Transformers film, angry citizens are fighting involved angry humans shouting Francisco for pedestrians to cross the road. The ve- back against what they perhaps perceive as the modern equivalent of at and slapping the self-driving hicle was in self-driving mode, but a human was in the Decepticons: autonomous cars. According to crash reports filed cars. According to the first report, the driver's seat, as required by state law. The raging with California's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), people are a male pedestrian supposedly at- pedestrian ran across the street "shouting". He then attacking driverless cars. So far in 2018, autonomous vehicles played a tacked a self-driving Chevy Bolt struck "the left side of the Cruise AV's rear bumper role in six accidents on state roads. Of those, two of the accidents as it waited at a traffic light in San and hatch with his entire body." FRIDAY .MARCH 09, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

The 90th edition of the Academy Awards proved to be a hit – not only with regards to those nominated but also with some of the stunning gowns that celebrities were spotted wearing. From Sofia Vergara playing it safe in black to Jennifer Garner adding a pop of colour to her outfit, Hollywood’s leading ladies donned elegant yet eye- catching creations. Here’s a lowdown of who made the cut for best dressed at Oscars 2018. Sofia Vergara The 45-year-old Modern Family star stepped out for the event in a black off-the-shoulder gown, finishing off her look with silver drop earrings and bright red lipstick. Accompanying Vergara was her husband Joe Manganiel- lo, who looked dapper in his tux. The couple looked pic- ture perfect while sharing some sweet moments in front of the camera. Jennifer Garner A pop of colour will always ensure you stand out from the crowd – as proved by Jennifer Garner at the Oscars. The actor stunned in a co- balt blue gown by Atelier Versace. The show-stopping ensemble comprised a broad bodice, cape and floor-skim- ming skirt. We don’t know about you but we were left floored! Gina Rodriguez The Jane the Virgin star stunned in a voluminous gown by Zuhair Murad. The plunging gold gown featured shimmery accents and a silver belt that cinched to her waist – hands down flaunting her toned torso. Looking glam head to toe, the starlet accessorised her look with tiny earrings and a low ponytail. Chhote Chhote Peg singer Navraj Hans reacts to the song being called Honey Born to an actor mother and a cin- “It [was] long overdue. I hope it ematographer father, actor Emily occurs in all parts of the world and Rampage to hit theatres Deschanel says she wasn’t quite in all businesses and places of the delighted child whenever her work, because it’s clearly not re- Singh’s dad would film home videos — stricted to the entertainment indus- week early after unlike her younger sister, actor try.” She adds, “I’ve certainly ex- Zooey Deschanel, who would perienced being treated not as an “jump in front of the camera”. As equal. I’m happy [that] women are Avengers: I nfinity a kid, Emily wanted to become an getting their voices, speaking out comeback architect. It was during high school and changing things. I’m excited to when she drifted towards theatre be in this world as it (the move- that she realised she loved it. While ment) is on.” Emily feels there War release date change she has played character roles in ought to be more women working the films Cold Mountain (2003), in all professions, and says she’ll Glory Road (2006) and My Sis- “definitely pursue” producing and Dwanye Johnson’s giant gorilla movie is coming ter’s Keeper (2009), her break- directing. “But because I’ve spent through role was of the forensic so much time away from my chil- a week early to India after Marvel decided to anthropologist, Dr Temperance dren, I’ll be picky. I won’t take release Avengers Infinity War a weak early. Brennan, in the TV series Bones. work that doesn’t make me pas- Looking back at a career span- sionate.” When it comes to dis- Warner Bros has moved up the re- the theatres on April 13 instead of head of an anti-poaching unit out ning more than two decades, Emily cussing projects, Emily says Zoo- lease date of Dwayne Johnson- its earlier announced date of April of Rwanda, and his best friend is happy at how things have ey often acts as her sounding starrer Rampage in light of the 20, according to The Hollywood George, an albino gorilla, as they changed for good in the entertain- board. “It’s nice to have a sister Marvel’s decision to shift Aveng- Reporter. The change in schedule fight monsters in a big city. The ment industry, especially with re- with whom you can talk about ers: Infinity War from May 4 to gives the film a full two weeks film also features actors Naomie gards to the ‘Me Too’ movement your work and what happens in April 27. Rampage, which is di- again before the arrival of the lat- Harris, Malin Akerman, Jake Lacy, against the widespread prevalence the industry. I value that,” she con- rected by Brad Peyton and based est Avengers film. The film follows Joe Manganiello, and Jeffrey Dean of sexual assault and harassment. cludes. (Hindustan Times) on 1980s video game, will now hit Davis Okoye, a primatologist and Morgan. (Hindustan Times)

Singer Navraj Hans is on a career tion? I can’t stop people from high with his song Chhote Chhote making comparisons. I just saw Peg from the film Sonu Ke Titu Ki this opportunity and grabbed it.” Sweety ruling the charts and cre- What was his father’s reaction to ating a lot of buzz among the audi- the shift from Tote Tote Dil to ence. Navraj, son of renowned sing- Chhote Chhote Peg? He says, er Hans Raj Hans, says that he is “Dad was really happy, and said ecstatic with the response he’s got commercial hit zaroori hai life mein. for the song. “God’s been kind, and He always pushes me to do a good I am pleased with the reactions. I job. Upon hearing Chhote Chhote, After treating the audience with an action-packed trailer, Tiger Shroff goes all have been working hard for the past he said ‘Maza aaya, crisp voice guns blazing in this new poster of Baaghi 2. The third poster showcases Tiger ten years, so it feels good that my aayi hai’.” With the song being tout- Shroff in a rugged avatar holding gun with an intense look. Tiger Shroff has hard work has finally paid off,” ed to be Yo Yo Honey Singh’s big taken the action a notch higher than what we had seen in the prequel. The actor says Navraj. The said song is sim- comeback, did Navraj feel side- ilar to Tote Tote Ho Gaya Dil lined? “Even Neha (Kakkar) has took to Twitter sharing the poster captioning, " Guns blazing all around ??". (Bichhoo, 2000) which was sung only four lines in the entire song. I Baaghi 2 has been creating immense buzz ever since its announcement. The by his father. Asked if he was ap- got to sing the hook line. Every makers have been timely treating the audience with contents that have raised the prehensive about people drawing song has its demand, and you anticipation level amongst the audience. The film brings to celluloid Tiger Shroff comparisons between his father shouldn’t think why your voice and Disha Patani in the lead role. Co-Produced by Fox Star Studios and Sajid and him, he says, “I didn’t take was not used more. That’s not Nadiadwala under the banner name Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, 'Baaghi any kind of pressure. How would professionalism,” says Navraj 2' is directed by Ahmed Khan and is slated to release on 30th March, 2018. I have been able to sing if I would whose latest song is Mundiyan (Santa Banta) have thought about people’s reac- Toh Bachke Rahi, for Baaghi 2. The Remix gave importance to my music know-how, not looks: Sunidhi Chauhan

Singer Sunidhi Chauhan, who will be seen as a judge on digital reality show The Remix, says shooting for it while she was pregnant was easy-going and enjoyable as emphasis was given to her musical knowledge over her looks. The Remix, presented by Amazon Prime Video, will also feature composer Amit Trivedi and DJ Nucleya. It will start streaming on Friday. Sunidhi was pregnant with her child. She delivered a boy in January. “The Remix came to me at a very special stage in my life - when I was expecting my first child. It is heartening to receive a warm welcome by the creators of the show. Moreover, they made the working atmosphere as easy-going for me as possible - it did not feel like I was on set putting in many long hours. What is truly remarkable is the fact that the importance was given to my musical know-how, and not how I looked on screen,” Sunidhi said in a statement. Hosted by actor Karan Tacker, The Remix will have 10 teams each comprising a singer and music producer, who create their own unique sound of music and compete against each other. An Amazon Prime Original, the show is created and produced by Greymatter Entertainment. (Tribune) Fox Star India triumphs at the Oscars 2018! Oscars 2018 has just ended and Fox Star India shines bright bagging 6 competition at the 90th Academy 2 awards respectively for toping awards in a row for movies like 'The Shape of Water' and 'Three Bill- Awards this year. 'The Shape of charts with the performances boards Outside Ebbing, Missouri'. A romantic fable and a murder- Water' and 'Three Billboards Out- which were ground-breaking. mystery, both the stories stood high triumphing over a series of tough side Ebbing, Missouri' won 4 and (Santa Banta) FRIDAY .MARCH 09, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Karen Bardsley scored an own goal Mallory Pugh fell wide of the post as England Women suffered a 1-0 - extended into the second half. defeat to the United States, who England had been more than a reclaimed the SheBelieves Cup in match for the highly-rated USA for Orlando. The Lionesses were hop- most of the first half, but Neville's ing to take away one point from women looked to fade as the inter- the match to win the title, but af- val approached and the difference ter confusion in defence in the 58th in quality continued to tell for the minute, a clearance attempt by rest of the contest. Neville brought Millie Bright hit keeper Bardsley on Toni Duggan and Nikita Parris to give their American hosts the who both created chances, while advantage. England continued to the last-gasp effort came in the pile on the pressure and an equal- 87th minute when Lucy Bronze iser nearly arrived late in the game put in a free-kick to Izzy Chris- as Ellen White's header came with- tiansen who whipped in the cross in inches of the goal, but bounced for White. The Birmingham City off the inside post. A draw would Ladies striker was left in disbelief have been enough for Phil Neville's as her header hit the post and new side to lift the trophy on goal bounced to Tierna Davidson who difference, after a 4-1 win over cleared the ball from the line. France followed by a 2-2 draw France beat Germany 3-0 in with Germany. But the testing Wednesday's other game to finish moments at the end of the first 45 third behind England. minutes - as a powerful strike from (Sky Sport) R or y M cI lr oy gets in ea r ly pr a ctice at Au gu sta in pr epa r ation for M aster s

Rob Key reflects on Ross Taylor's liked and he could have done him- Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath. The heroics, decides if Sachin Ten- self some serious damage. You have battle of the summer is Kohli ver- dulkar or Virat Kohli is greatest and to wonder if in doing so he might sus James Anderson. That's the has a few words to say on sledging have made a niggle into something final frontier for Kohli. If he cracks in our latest Hit for Six. Was Ross a lot worse, putting him in danger that, which I'd guess he will, he Taylor's match-winning hundred of missing the Test series, but hope- will go down as one of the game's for New Zealand in the fourth ODI fully that's not the case. In sum- greats even though he still has a against England up there with the mary - it was one of the best long way to go in his career. best you've ever seen in one-day knocks I've ever seen and would But, Sachin, at the moment, still cricket? It's certainly the best in- be in the top 10 one-day knocks has the edge over Kohli for me. nings I've ever seen Ross play. of all time, for sure. Speaking of Sticking with Kohli, legendary Rory McIlroy has revealed that he spent time at Augusta National last That's saying something in itself Virat Kohli: he tours England this former Indian captain Kapil Dev week getting in some early practice for the Masters next month. McIl- because he's someone with an ex- summer, the one place he has strug- has said he should play county roy opted to miss the first World Golf Championship event of the year traordinary record. But, when you gled generally to score runs. Would cricket before this summer's Test in Mexico, but he decided to interrupt his week off by travelling to start comparing it to some of the a good series see him surpass Sa- series against England. Would you Augusta and enjoying some early preparation for the first major of the innings played by the likes of Vi- chin Tendulkar as India's greatest be for that? Or does it just offer year. The 28-year-old is the first of three players this season to attempt rat Kohli and AB de Villiers, you ever batsman? It's hard to compare him the chance to assess English to complete a career Grand Slam of majors, with Phil Mickelson aiming have to say he's a little bit behind eras, but you've got to be some conditions better and play himself for a full set at the US Open before Jordan Spieth aims for his fourth those guys. That said, you simply player to beat Sachin. If anyone into form? I've never had a prob- different major at the PGA Championship in August. McIlroy insisted can't fault his courage and mental can, it's Kohli. But, for me, Sachin lem with it. Even with the Test he would be "totally ready" to contend at the Masters if it started this toughness; the series was on the was just in a class apart. Every- series against India coming up this week, and he feels refreshed and relaxed as he looks to bounce back from line, as well as the game, so it was thing about him from a technical summer. It would be amazing if a tremendous effort. Given the in- point of view was spot on. He Kohli played county cricket - we Judy Murray has been fighting ranked 60 or a Fed Cup captain a disappointing performance at the Honda Classic. The world No 12 felt for women in tennis her whole from a lower zone like myself his swing had got "out of sync" at PGA National, but he believes he has juries he picked up he could easily didn't have as good a team around should be welcoming him with ironed out those flaws ahead of this week's Valspar Championship at have gone off - he ended up having him, he came up against tougher open arms. career and has called on Sere- [calls for change], of course it Innisbrook. (BBC Sport) to run more than he would have bowlers - Muttiah Muralitharan, (BBC Sport) na Williams and other top play- will have some kind of impact, ers to follow her lead. Williams but it doesn't drive anything is a vocal advocate of women's through. "On the men's side, if rights and empowering women, you've got Andy and Rafa and but Murray is concerned that Roger and Novak pushing for Valdezvs Quigg:Scott Quigg is thelatest British the players driving through change, whether that's Davis changes in the sport are male Cup or better distribution of and that the women's game the profits from the grand fighter totarget titlesuccess in theUSA could be left behind. From Billie slams, they're going to sit up Jean King to Venus Williams, and take notice. But we need As Scott Quigg attempts to win remaining, and would reach the who was a key figure in secur- top women to do the same the WBO belt in America, we look tournament final, only to suffer a ing equal prize money at all the thing. "Serena, now that she's back at five other British fighters points loss to Andre Ward in At- grand slams, female players had a baby girl, I'm hoping as who battled to title success in the lantic City. The Olympic silver over the past 50 years have not she comes towards the end of States. The Bury man is bidding medallist had made an eventful been afraid to get political. her career that she will use her to become the new WBO feather- start to life in the professional Murray was one of several to voice to make things change for weight champion when he chal- ranks as he overcame a shock loss voice exasperation last week women. "It's not all about equal lenges Oscar Valdez in Carson in to Breidis Prescott by claiming the when plans to radically trans- prize money, it's about grass- the early hours of Sunday morn- WBA super-lightweight title with form the Davis Cup made no roots opportunities and help- ing, live on Sky Sports. Brits rare- a masterful points win over An- mention of the Fed Cup, a com- ing the female game across the ly receive an easy assignment when driy Kotelnik. After sweeping petition in need of reform. Mur- world get stronger." You can they are sent to the US, but can Dmitry Salita aside inside a round, ray, who was speaking to mark watch the ATP Masters 1000 Quigg make his name with an up- Khan was invited to showcase his International Women's Day on from Indian Wells with cover- set victory over the highly-rated blistering hand speed at the famed Mexican? Here are five homegrown Madison Square Garden in New March 8, said: "I think it needs age getting underway from fighters who have celebrated title York, against brash local favourite more of the top women players 7pm on Sky Sports Action and victories on US soil... Froch en- Paulie Malignaggi. Khan intro- to push for change on the wom- via the red button on the same tered the inaugural World Boxing duced himself in style, stopping en's side of the game because channel this Thursday. You can Super Series, fresh from a WBC Malignaggi in the 11th round, and change is always driven from also watch it from 10.30pm on title victory over Jean Pascal, and has based his career mostly in the the top. "So, if somebody Sky Sports Main Event. was pitted against former undis- States since that night. Khan's long- puted middleweight king Jermain term rival Brook would take a flight Taylor. Las Vegas or New York across the Atlantic four years later was not offered to the no-nonsense to challenge Shawn 'Showtime' Nottingham man, who still man- Porter, the rugged IBF welter- aged to enthral a new audience with weight champion, who had blast- a 'Rocky' style comeback win at a ed out Malignaggi in his last fight. Nicky Henderson has ruled Top Notch out of the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham next week. Fifth in the casino in Connecticut. 'The Cobra' The Sheffield man retained a steely Champion Hurdle to Annie Power in 2015 and second to Yorkhill in the JLT Novices' Chase 12 months ago, retained the WBC belt after a stun- composure throughout a hard- the seven-year-old has won the Christy 1965 Chase at Ascot and the rearranged Peterborough Chase at ning comeback fought encounter, which saw both Taunton this season. However, he was last seen finishing fourth in the Ascot Chase won by Waiting Patiently 'The Cobra' retained the WBC men cut, and his cleaner work last month, a run Henderson was not happy with. The Seven Barrows trainer said in a statement posted on belt after a stunning comeback would be rewarded with a points his Twitter feed: "Sadly we have had to pull Top Notch out of Cheltenham and he will not run in the Ryanair Trailing on points after an ear- victory. Brook celebrates his Chase. "We have to conclude that his run in the Ascot Chase last time was slightly disappointing and Sarah ly knockdown, Froch pounded points victory in Carson. Shreeve, who rides him every single day, and knows the horse inside out, said she felt he's been a bit too quiet Taylor to a halt with just seconds (BBC Sport) and isn't his usual perky self so we have made the decision t skip Cheltenham. FRIDAY .MARCH 09 . 2018 -Hoot 18, 1396 H.S Vol:X Issue No:221 Price: Afs.20

Top South Korean negotiators left Chung announced the North Ko- North Korea runs an underground overseas depot for North Korean for the United States Thursday to reans were prepared to discuss de- military base south of Qardaha, weapons. The military collabora- brief their American counterparts nuclearization with the US as long Syrian President Bashar al-As- tion between the Assad regime and on the outcome of their historic as their security was assured, sad’s hometown in costal Lattakia Pyongyang has come to surface in meeting with North Korean leader prompting tentative optimism in province, a well-informed source the last two weeks. CNN report- Kim Jong Un earlier this week. Washington. "I think that their told Zaman al-Wasl. Long tunnels ed that North Korea has been send- South Korean National Security statement and the statements com- have been built during the last sev- ing supplies to the Syrian regime Office Head Chung Eui-yong re- ing out of South Korea and North en years in a deep valley in Qarda- that could be used to produce chem- vealed few details of the trip as he Korea have been very positive," ha under the supervision of North ical weapons, according to a Unit- boarded a plane at Seoul's Incheon US President Donald Trump said Korean experts. According to Za- ed Nations Security Council dip- Airport for a brief two-day visit Tuesday. "I think that they are sin- man al-Wasl’s satellite images and lomat. Speaking on condition of an- to Washington. "The most urgent cere. ... I hope they're sincere. a military source, the underground onymity, the diplomat said that issue is to make sure the United We're going to soon find out." facility has been under construc- North Korea had sent acid-resis- States and North Korea will en- Agenda unknown tion for seven years, started at the tant tiles, valves and thermome- gage in talks," Chung said, as he Little is known about the del- beginning of the Syrian revolution ters to Syria. The diplomat was departed with National Intelligence egations' visit to the United States, in March 2011. Part of the base is citing a report on North Korea au- Service chief Suh Hoon. The two including who they'll be meeting being constructed inside a large thored by a U.N. panel of experts. diplomats recently returned to with and what they'll be telling their tunnel in the mountainous area that The same report also claims North South Korea from an unprecedent- allies about the North Korea meet- lies on the Mediterranean Sea. Just Korean missile experts visited Syr- ed meeting with North Korea's ing. Robert Kelly, associate pro- a small part is located outside. The ia in 2016 and 2017, after chemical Kim in Pyongyang, believed to be fessor of political science at Pusan high level of secrecy in the North weapons supplies had been sent the leader's first face-to-face talks National University, told CNN the Korean base raises speculations of to the Middle Eastern state. with South Korean officials since South Korean delegation is likely whether it’s a nuclear facility or (BBC) he took power in 2011. The meet- to meet with National Security ing led to plans for an April sum- Adviser H. R. McMaster or pos- mit when Kim will meet South sibly US Secretary of Defense Korean President Moon Jae-in at James Mattis. US Secretary of the demilitarized zone separating State Tillerson is out of the coun- the two countries. On Tuesday, try on his first official. (CNN)

More than 20 people have died in man said. Some opposition politi- Nigeria’s parliament passed legis- clashes between herders and farm- cians have accused Buhari of fail- lation on Wednesday meant to help ers in central Nigeria, police said, ing to take action against the herd- authorities tackle money launder- part of an outbreak of violence that ers because they are his ethnic and ing and funding for terrorism by has piled pressure on President religious kin - an accusation his allowing its financial intelligence Muhammadu Buhari less than a supporters dismiss. The herders unit to operate free of state con- year before elections. Two herd- are mostly Muslims from Buhari’s trol. The move is aimed at remov- The French foreign minister says that Paris would respond if the al- groups.” Le Drian’s remarks come an corridor set up by the govern- ers went missing in the central Fulani ethnic group, while the ma- ing bureaucracy impeding investi- Iran and Russia have the means to leged use of chemical weapons in amid a Syrian army operation to ment. Paris, in tune with other state of Benue on Monday and one jority of the farmers are Christians gations of financial crime and was ensure that Syria honors a UN res- Syria is proven. Resolution 2401, liberate the Damascus suburb of Western powers and mainstream was later found dead, a state po- of other ethnicities. Many of the taken under international pressure olution calling for a 30-day cease- which was passed by the UN Se- Eastern Ghouta, which has been media, has been trying to pin the lice spokesman said. In revenge, a clashes between the communities, on Nigeria to crack down on en- fire across the Arab country. Jean- curity Council on February 24, used by a host of militant groups, blame for the crisis in Eastern group armed with machetes at- triggered by competition over demic corruption afflicting the Yves Le Drian on Thursday urged calls for a ceasefire “without de- including the Takfiri al-Nusra Ghouta on the Syrian government tacked people, including women dwindling arable land, have be- economy and law enforcement. Tehran and Moscow, which have lay for at least 30 consecutive Front, to target the Syrian capital and Russia, which provides air and children, in the district of Ok- come part of a cycle of revenge Nigeria’s upper legislative house, been helping the Syrian govern- days.” The truce, however, does with deadly mortar and shelling cover to the national army’s ground pokwu the same day, the spokes- attacks that shows little sign of the Senate, adopted the bill on ment in its counter-terrorism op- not apply to operations against attacks. The militants have been operations. They have also been man said. Twenty-four people abating. The presidency said Bu- Wednesday, completing its passage erations, to use their influence on the Takfiri Daesh and al-Nusra ter- using the civilians in Eastern Ghou- trying to link an alleged chemical died in that violence, he added. hari would begin a tour of areas hit through parliament after the lower Damascus and make sure it re- ror outfits as well as “all other in- ta as human shields in the face of attack in the region to Damascus, “Four suspects have so far by the clashes, including Benue, house’s approval on Tuesday. spects Resolution 2401. The top dividuals, groups, undertakings and army advances and thus blocking in what analysts say is an attempt been arrested in connection with on Monday. President Muhammadu Buhari French diplomat further reaffirmed entities associated with terrorist their exit through the humanitari- to justify a future. (PressTV) the gruesome murder,” the spokes- (Reuters) would need to sign the legislation for it to come into force, but is expected to do so. The new law makes the Nigerian Financial In- telligence Unit an independent body able to share information with counterparts abroad. Until now, the agency has operated un- der Nigeria’s state Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Parliament acted after the Egmont Group, a body of 155 Financial Intelligence Units worldwide, threatened to delist Nigeria unless its own unit gained autonomy, en- abling it to deal with financial crimes more effectively. The Eg- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tiller- “shithole countries” in January. and visited the African Union mont Group insisted that failure son said on Thursday that African Trump later denied making the headquarters on Thursday. The to make Nigeria’s unit legally in- countries should weigh Chinese comment. “We are not in any way complex was fully funded and built dependent would have subjected loans carefully, while adding that attempting to keep Chinese dol- by China and is seen as a symbol financial transactions from Nige- Washington was not trying to keep lars from Africa,” Tillerson told a of Beijing’s thrust for influence and ria, including funds transfers and Chinese investment away from the news conference in the Ethiopian access to the continent’s natural credit cards, to special controls, continent. Tillerson, a former Exx- capital during his first diplomatic resources. The top U.S. diplomat’s banking sources said. This could on chief executive, is seeking to trip to the continent. “(But) it is comments followed a speech ear- mean a refusal to process tens of bolster security alliances on a con- important that African countries lier this week in which he criticised thousands of payments. Banking tinent increasingly turning to carefully consider the terms of “China’s approach” to Africa transactions above a stipulated Beijing for aid and trade. He may those agreements and not forfeit which he said encouraged depen- threshold are automatically sent to also seek to smooth relations after their sovereignty.” He arrived in dency through “opaque contracts” the Financial Intelligence Unit. U.S. President Trump reportedly Ethiopia, Africa’s second most and “predatory loan practices”. (CNN) dismissed some African nations as populous nation, on Wednesday (Reuters)

Yemeni government called on the Council resolution 2216 in order ernment is exerting to put an end United Nations to save the Red to put Yemen and its people on to the Yemenis' suffering and and Emboldened by Trump’s weak response, Putin and his cro- Sea from a possible environmental the right path to end the coup and Houthis' crimes. The government disaster caused by the oil spill off restore the state's legal institutions. has been seeking to resume the nies are saying: ‘You know we did it, and you know and we the coast in Hodeidah. This came The Minister affirmed that the political process that is based on during a statement by the Yemeni government has been doing its best the rules and references agreed on know you’re not going to do anything about it.’ Foreign Minister Abdulmalik al- within the available capacities and internationally including the GCC Mekhlafi, at the sidelines of the resources to cope with the living initiative, outcomes of the Nation- meeting of Arab foreign ministers conditions and basic services chal- al Dialogue and International Se- Now that British police have an- to them if they betrayed their coun- ed States. And on Monday, Putin iron-fisted image is Putin’s strong held in Cairo, in which he con- lenges amid disastrous humanitar- curity Council Resolution 2216. nounced that Sunday’s poisoning try? It is significant that the poi- gave a rousing speech to officers card with the increasingly nation- demned Houthis. The Yemeni FM ian ordeal due to Houthis insistence Speaking about the Arab Summit in Salisbury of a former Russian soning occurred just two weeks of the Federal Security Service alistic, patriotic Russian elector- urged the international communi- on messing up with the country's which will be held at the end of intelligence officer turned MI6 as- before Russia’s presidential elec- (FSB), praising them for their suc- ate, who are fed a steady diet of ty, UN Security Council perma- resources, security and stability. March in Saudi capital Riyadh, the set, Col. Sergei Skripal, “is being tions, with Putin displaying cess in thwarting foreign espionage anti-Western propaganda on state- nent member states and 18 nations Houthis activities escalated to an FM described the proposed sum- treated as a major incident involv- hyped-up belligerence toward the plots and reminding them that “the controlled television. Putin of supporting peace process in Ye- intolerable level, which brought the mit as an opportunity to regain the ing attempted murder by adminis- West. In an address last week to life, rights and security of our cit- course will win the presidential men to pressure the coup forces human rights situation in Yemen initiative and come to consensus tration of a nerve agent,” Kremlin Russia’s Federal Assembly, Putin izens must be steadfastly protect- election, but the Kremlin may be to seriously return to peace pro- to an all-time low, based on reports on the policies that put high na- involvement in the crime seems bragged about Russia’s new nucle- ed from both domestic and foreign worried that the turnout will be cess on the basis of the GCC's Ini- of the UN and specialized organi- tional interests of Arab nation almost certain. But what was the ar missiles, which he claimed could threats, from any efforts to hinder low because of Aleksei Navalny’s tiative, outcomes of National Dia- zations, said Mekhlafi. Mekhlafi above all other considerations. motivation, aside from reminding evade anti-missile defenses and us in solving the tasks of our coun- vigorous campaign for a boycott logue and International Security pointed out to the efforts the gov- (AFP) Russian spies what could happen deal a devastating blow to the Unit- try’s strategic development.” This of the elections.