Hope is not the conviction that something “ www.outlookafghanistan.net “will turn out well but the certainty that @The.Daily.Outlook.Afghanistan something makes sense, regardless of [email protected] how it turns out. 0093 799-005019/ 777-005019 In front of Habibia High School, Quote of the Day Vaclav Havel District 6, Kabul, Afghanistan

Volume Num. 4542 Saturday February, 13, 2021 Dalw, 25, 1399 www.Outlookafghanistan.net Price: 20/afs

Biden Vows to Bring Danish Says an ‘Responsible End to Wars’ WASHINGTON - The US Presi- tinuing to ensure that terrorist Interim-Government dent Joe Biden in his first visit threats cannot endanger the se- to the Pentagon as commander- curity of the American people.” in-chief, has promised to work “As your commander in chief, I Brings More Violence with Secretary of Defense Lloyd will never hesitate to use force J. Austin and leaders around the to defend the vital interest of world “to bring a responsible America, the American end to wars that have dragged people and our allies on for far too long, while con- around the world... More on Num(Page (2) 4)

President Ghani Spoke to Tajik, Kazakh Leaders Over Bilateral Relations KABUL - President Ghani said leaders stressed the expansion in a telephone conversation of bilateral relations, regional with Tajik President Emomali cooperation and they also dis- Rahmon on Thursday has dis- cussed the Afghan peace pro- cussed the Afghan peace pro- cess. cess, bilateral relations, and re- The president of Tajikistan ex- gional cooperation. pressed his full support for Presidential Palace stated, dur- the views and plans of ing the conversation, both the Republic... More on Num(Page (3) 4)

KABUL - Second Vice President more violence and that it means tensified their violence, which is Sarwar Danesh said on Friday returning to the past,” said Dan- in no way in the country’s inter- Afghanistan to Begin COVID-19 that the current opportunity for ish. est,” Danish added. peace should be seized. Danish also said that most of the Meanwhile, Mohammad Karim Vaccinations Next Week Speaking at the ceremony mark- Taliban’s released prisoners re- Khalili, former chairman of the KABUL - Afghanistan will to healthcare workers, security ing the first anniversary of the turned to the battlefields. High Peace Council, at the cere- launch COVID-19 vaccination forces and media workers, Af- death of Mohammad Baqir Mo- He also emphasized that being mony marking the first anniver- drive with India assissted vac- ghan acting health minister Wa- haqiq in Kabul said that the Tali- the Taliban away from the ne- sary of the death of Mohammad cines next week, officials said heed Majroh said. ban has shown “less sincerity” gotiating table is not in the best Baqir Mohaqiq said that called Thursday. He said that COVAX funds to the peace efforts and instead, interest of the peace process. on both sides to take the oppor- Afghanistan on Sunday received COVID-19 vaccines to reach they have increased their vio- “The Afghan government has tunity of peace. 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vac- 20% of Afghanistan’s popula- lence in the country. taken bold steps in the peace “Let us take this opportu- cines donated by India. tion in the first category and the “An interim setup will bring process, but the Taliban have in- nity to establish a... The doses will be administered second category is also... More on Num(Page (1) 4) More on Num(Page (4) 4) Page 2 February, 13, 2021 Main Page

28 New Cases of Senior Tehrik-I-Taliban Leader COVID-19, 3 Deaths ‘Haji Dubai’ Killed in Afghanistan Reported in Afghanistan NANGARHAR - Tehrik-i-Tal- iban leader, Amir Nawaz, who was suspected of killing the re- nowned aid worker and Japa- nese national “Tetsu Nakamu- ra” in Afghanistan was killed in Nangarhar province, Afghan and Pakistani officials told - me dia. Nawaz is also known as “Haji Dubai” and was on the wanted list of terrorist figures in Paki- stan for his role in series of mur- ders and kidnappings in Kara- chi, Punjab, Balochistan, and KABUL - The Ministry of Pub- The ministry says the cumula- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. lic Health on Friday reported tive total of known COVID-19 Reports also indicate he was the 28 new positive cases of COV- cases is 55,473, the total num- mastermind behind the Bannu ID-19 out of 1, 391 samples ber of reported deaths is 2,427, prison break in April 2012, in tested in the last 24 hours. and the total number of recov- which 260 Taliban fighters fled The ministry also reported eries is 48,390. from detention as a result of the three deaths and 111 recover- So far, 272,256 samples have attack. ies from COVID-19 in the same been tested in government Pakistani media also reported period. centers and there are 4,656 that the TTP leader was killed stan a couple of days ago. The new cases were reported known active COVID-19 cases in an “armed” battle in Afghani- No group has so far claimed responsibility for the killing of Nakamura. (Khaama Press) in Kabul (4), Herat (3), Kanda- in the country, data by the min- har (3), Balkh (8), Nangarhar istry indicates. (2), Maidan Wardak (1), Kapisa The number of deaths from (2), Helmand (2) and Uruzgan COVID-19 globally is more Pregnant Afghan Woman Sells Pajhwok Reporter in (3) provinces. than 2,369,471 and the number The deaths were reported in of known global coronavirus Kidney to Pay Husband’s Debts Faryab Shot Injured Herat province, according to cases is 107,807,456, according HERAT - Khawrai Gul, an Af- KABUL - Unidentified gunmen Pajhwok Afghan News: “When data provided by the Ministry to Johns Hopkins University. ghan woman in Herat, has sold shot and wounded Pajhwok Af- Kohi got out of his car for shop- of Public Health. (TOLO NEWS) one of her kidneys to pay the ghan News reporter Qutbuddin ping in the bazaar, he was shot loans of her husband. Kohi in northern Faryab prov- with a silent gun and the attack- Gul, 28, is a native of nearby ince yesterday. er fled.” Kohi is also the head of Faryab province, but has sought He was attacked and wounded the province’s journalists’ asso- refuge in Herat province amid in the bazaar of Maimana, the ciation. Pajhwok Afghan News Mine Factory Wrecked, the war and other violence. capital of Faryab, on Thursday editor-in-chief Danish Karokhel She said she did not have any evening. strongly condemned the inci- 31 Taliban Killed: Defense Officials other option except to sell her Kohi told Pajhwok Afghan dent and called on the authori- KANDAHAR - The Minis- kidney and to pay the loans of News he had been shot in the ties to find and punish the per- try of Defense (MoD) says a her husband who was in Tali- head but his condition was sta- petrators. Taliban mine factory in the ban custody. ble. Alauddin, a reporter for No group has claimed respon- Arghandab district of Kan- The Taliban has not comment- Gul. The Ministry of Public Salam Watandar in Faryab, told sibility for the attack. (Pajhwok) dahar province has been ed. Health has said that the sale and destroyed. “I had been pregnant for 50 days purchase of organs is illegal, Ministry of Defense in a re- on the day I gave my kidney—I and hospitals that are involved leased statement on Thurs- didn’t tell the doctors that I was in illegal organ transplants will day said, that a Taliban pregnant, because I had to do be prosecuted and their licenses Daesh-Linked Foreigners mine and bomb manufac- it,” said Khawrai Gul. can be revoked. turing factory was discov- “I didn’t know the person to This comes a week after TOLO- Arrested in Balkh ered and wrecked. whom I gave my kidney, but news reported that hundreds MAZAR-I-SHARIF - Foreign Azimi added the operations were The operation that took he was from Afghanistan,” she of poor and displaced people members of Daesh group have conducted to find a kidnapped place in the region resulted said. “I had given blood tests have sold their vital organs for been arrested in northern Balkh child, Abdul Maroof, but the in complete destruction of a lice chief of PD5 in Kabul were before. Later the doctors called a small price in the western province, an official said on raids resulted in the arrest of for- Taliban mine factory. killed. me and asked me to come and province of Herat. Thursday. eign members of Daesh. During the attacks, eight mine This comes as 31 Taliban fight- give my kidney to a person, so Confirmed figures show that Balkh governor Mohammad He said the foreigners and their makers including their leader ers were killed in an airstrike in I went there and gave the kid- over 1,000 kidneys have been FarhadAzimi told a press confer- families and children were in po- were killed and a massive mine Chahar Bolak district in Balkh ney,” said Khawrai Gul. traded in Herat over the last ence here that some foreigners lice custody. factory belonging to the Taliban Province. “I was taken to a mountain be- five years. Over 100 of such and their families linked with Azimi did not disclose nationali- was destroyed, MoD stated. 209 Shaheen Corps stated, that cause of the debts, then my wife people who have sold their Daesh were captured in Deh- ties of the arrested foreigners but Meanwhile, IED, mine, or bomb these Taliban fighters were had no option except to go to kidneys are living in the Se dadi district and Mazar-i-Sharif said the National Directorate of explosions have raged across killed during the operations Luqman-e-Hakim hospital to Shanba Bazar village in Injil city, the provincial capital, on Security (NDS) would later pro- Afghanistan, and on Wednes- conducted by the Afghan na- sell her kidney,” said Amrud- district in Herat, and are Wednesday night during eight vide details in this regard. (Pajh- day’s string of IED attacks, tional defense and security din, the husband of Khawrai relatives of one... different raids by security forces. wok) many people including the po- forces. (Khaama Press) More onNum (Page (11) 4) Outlook Horoscope Aries (Mar. 22-Apr.20) Capricorn (Dec.21-Jan19) Cancer (June 21-July 20) Libra (Sep 23-Oct. 22) Feb 13, 2021 - You may feel a bit protec- Feb 13, 2021 - It would be a good idea to tive today, Aries, and with good reason. Feb 13, 2021 - Break through the potential Feb 13, 2021 - Overall, this should be a pretty socialize with others today in a comfort- Others are likely to be aggressive when it moodiness of the day, Cancer. Burst into good day for you, Libra, as long as you don’t able, open setting. Say what you feel in- comes to moving in on your territory. Be song while walking down the street. En- get overly sensitive about certain things. stead of just concentrating on what you strong. Assure yourself as well as those courage others to sing back to you, as if Your awareness is bound to be extra sharp think, Capricorn. Be just as good a listener as you ex- in your charge that everything will be your life were an opera. Your creativity is today, so use this ability to stay alert and pect others to be for you. Join a writing circle or take fine. Take reasonable precautions, but don’t complete- extra strong at this point, so let it shine in unexpected open to what’s going on around you. Perhaps you’re feel- a painting class. Your creativity is looking for an out- ly close yourself off to the outside world. That knock areas of your world. You have the wonderful ability to ing a bit restless when it comes to matters of the heart. This let today, so you might as well share this gift among at the gate could just as easily provide much-needed turn even the most mundane situations into something is telling you to stop fidgeting and take action. friends. help. exciting.

Taurus (Apr.21-May 20) Leo (July 21-Aug. 21) Scorpio (Oct.23-Nov.22) Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb.18) Feb 13, 2021 - You may be plagued with Feb 13, 2021 - You may be a bit confused Feb 13, 2021 - This is one day in which Feb 13, 2021 - Stick with what comes nat- restlessness, Leo, to the point that you may your heart pounds with excitement. For urally, Aquarius. If something feels diffi- today, Taurus. More than likely, it will be not be able to get anything done. If you hard for you to get an accurate read on some reason, Scorpio, there’s a quiet cult or abrasive, this is a sign that your sense that this is happening to you even in voice inside warning that you may be energy is better used elsewhere. But don’t your emotions. One of your automatic re- the slightest degree, stop whatever you’re sponses in situations like this is to turn to getting yourself into a great deal of trou- turn away until you’re sure that what doing and take a break. Your work isn’t ble. An enthusiastic approach toward love may be nec- you’re facing is actually a combative force instead a close partner for advice. Unfortunately, worth the sacrifice of your sanity. Consider going to a this advice may throw you into even more of a tailspin. essary, but this may not be the best day to act. People of your own skewed sense of reality. You could be spa or call up a friend with a hot tub so you can soak in are too sensitive and not necessarily that impressed overly sensitive about a given situation and thereby What you need more than anything is to spend quality some warm, relaxing water for a while. time alone. with your potentially abrasive demeanor. making up scenarios that don’t even exist.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Virgo (Aug. 22-Sep 22 ) Sagittarius (Nov.23-Dec.20) Pisces (Feb.19-Mar.20) Feb 13, 2021 - Secure your emotions and Feb 13, 2021 - Be careful of exerting your make sure you’re set in your mind before will too strongly toward someone who re- Feb 13, 2021 - Be more aggressive when Feb 13, 2021 - Your heart may feel ex- you take action today, Gemini. This is a ally isn’t receptive to it, Virgo. Be conscious it comes to your intentions in a romantic tra loving today, Pisces, which is good, terrific time to get things started. Follow- of other people’s feelings. Be gentle when it situation, Sagittarius. It would be a great since you will probably need it. There ing through to completion shouldn’t be a comes to love and romance. You have a yellow light, idea to impress your lover with a delicious home- is most likely someone close to you problem. The difficult part is taking that which means that it’s OK to proceed. Be careful that the cooked meal on a night like this. Put a bit more passion who needs a lift of some sort. You may be like the first step. This can be easily done on a day like today, so other person is receptive to your advances. Don’t come into the equation and relight the spark that might have tow truck that arrives to pull a car out of the ditch. Be don’t miss this opportunity when your intuitive sense is across as too aggressive and end up making a fool of recently gone out. Don’t hesitate to be the instigator in careful when you hook up the chains. Don’t scratch extra keen. yourself. love. the bumper or pull too hard all at once!

Across Yesterday’s Solution 1. Slip, 5. South American weapon, 9. Press, 13. City in Peru, 14. Scare, 16. Style, 17. Aus- trian peaks, 18. Latin name for our planet, 19. Conspiracy, 20. Feelings of boredom, 22. Su- pervisors, 24. Bristle, 26. An ancient Assyrian city, 27. Entreat, 30. Flourish, 33. Waterproof clothes, 35. Plant life, 37. Sphere, 38. Used a broom, 41. Chemist’s workplace, 42. Water holes, 45. Lullaby, 48. Seller, 51. Protective wall, 52. Made from apple juice, 54. Mongol hut 55. Pertaining to an ecclesiastical council, 59. Braised meat stew, 62. Hireling, 63. Come- dian, 65. College girl, 66. Decorative case, 67. A very short time, 68. Tinted, 69. Platter, 70. Apollo astronaut Slayton, 71. Catch a glimpse of Down about anchor assure 1. A thick portion, 2. Murder, 3. Unfeeling, 4. Cocoyam, 5. Louisville Slugger, 6. Marga- bomber booze bride rine, 7. Stage between egg and pupa, 8. Apprehend, 9. Jeopardize, 10. Part in a play, 11. casket cent chess close Smell, 12. Catches, 15. Fen, 21. Goulash, 23. Ride the waves, 25. Cards with 1 symbol, 27. competition corona cover Found over each eye, 28. Dog-___, 29. “Hee ___”, 31. Buxom, 32. Delete, 34. Confederate device divot finger firs soldier, 36. Assist in crime, 39. Liveliness, 40. Found in a cafeteria, 43. Terse, 44. Skidded, graft group hope orbit 46. Gunk, 47. Otalgia, 49. Decree, 50. Phonograph disc, 53. Bog hemp, 55. Hurried, 56. party plead purify Abominable Snowman, 57. French for “We”, 58. Pass the tongue over, 60. Horn sound, retreat roar route scarce 61. Countercurrent, 64. C shone shoot strategy Page 3 February 13, 2021 Editorial and Opinions

In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Kind Afghanistan-India Relations: A Unique Example for Regional Countries

sition, Afghanistan should play its economic role in the heart of Asia. By: Mohammad Zahir Akbari Therefore, it is one of the key responsibilities of the Afghan government to prove its impartial role in heart of Asia. The close friendship between t the height of the escalating war and violence, yesterday the peo- India and Afghanistan must not be considered as a threat to any third Aple of Afghanistan were in the witness of a good event; it was the country. construction of Shatoot Dam in the thirsty outskirts of Kabul capital city. As pointed out, we have no bad memory from India in soil of Afghani- Based on the contract which singed between Afghan and Indian officials, stan other than playing constructive role. Therefore, the relationship Escalated Violence the Shahtoot Dam is planned to be completed in the next three years with between Afghanistan and India should be a good example for other holding nearly 150 million cubic meters of water to help irrigate some countries in the region. They must realize that any relationships that Shatters Public Hope 4,000 hectares of land, and to provide drinking water to some two million are established on basis of force and oppressive actions are unstable. In imilar to all nations, Afghans also nurture an ambition for residents of Kabul. The Indian prime minister pledged that his govern- twenty first century, no one should expect a stable friendship through Shaving a peaceful and democratic state. Their dream is ment will provide $236 million to construct the dam. However, this is not imposing puppet regime or imposing colonial system. Afghan people to exercise their rights in a civil society void of war and vio- the first major and effective project being built by India in Afghanistan. will remain appreciative and grateful to those who chose true ways of lence. They desire to taste the sweet fruit of democracy. In last two decades, India sponsored several big and effective projects friendship with Afghan people. It is extremely expected from govern- They dream their children be able to live a peaceful life. such as construction of parliament and India-Afghanistan Friendship ment of Afghanistan to compensate the true friendship of those coun- Afghan men and women pray for having a society where Dam [Salma Dam], and now Shatoot dam. Although Afghanistan was tries such as India, Japan, Germany and others through prioritizing life and liberties are valued and no blood is shed or tears donated billions of Dollars in last two decades, the Indian assistance were their goods and services in Afghanistan. We must not be merely the re- are flowed. An end for the outpouring of grief which results more strategic and more effective focusing on re-construction of econom- ceiver of donations; we should also prove to be a good friend. The pros- from bloody incidents and atrocious acts is the desire of Af- ic infrastructure. If all donors could spend their donation in such effective pects of relationships with these countries, especially with India seem ghan nation. way, now Afghanistan would have overcome all the current challenges. very shining. India is a one emerging economic and political power and To the unmitigated chagrin of Afghan people, radical ele- Many Afghans believes that friendship between the two countries have it can trustfully support Afghanistan in the fields of education, health ments and colonial powers amalgamated throughout the been strong, unlimited, stable and can be mentioned as a good example and reconstruction of the country. On the other hand, Afghanistan is a history to destroy this land and sow the seeds of discord in the region and also in world level. economic corridor between south Asian and central Asia which is very and sectarianism. For instance in the past, a number of kings According to public opinion, India has always proved its good-will and important for India as a growing economic power. practiced upon the policy of “divide and rule” and inflicted good friendship with Afghanistan, especially in last two decades. In ad- And finally, it is also worth to appreciate the current president of Af- heavy human casualties and irreparable loss upon the nation. dition to construction of Afghan parliament, construction of Salma dam ghanistan for his unique economic initiations in the country. Seeming- The cruel rehearsals of dictatorial regimes and fatal civil un- and lately Shatoot dam, India has sponsored hundreds of public and pri- ly, he is well aware that this is more than six centuries that Afghanistan rest played the most destructive role in Afghanistan. vate schools, thousands of scholarships, sending corona vaccine for near- has been isolated economically. This happened after the invention of A thumbnail description about the past regimes will unfold ly half a million people and constructed multiple roads in Afghanistan. It compass and advanced ships which led to shutdown of Silk Road in all the barbaric practices of those who ruled under sacred is said that that India “is the biggest regional donor to Afghanistan and the heart of Asia. Afghanistan which was the center of trade and busi- terms – from Abdul Rahman Khan to Mullah Omar who the fifth largest donor globally with sponsoring unforgettable strategic ness suddenly isolated changing to a landlocked country with sudden both called themselves Amir-ul-Mumineen (the commander projects in the country. Although Afghanistan is not directly connected to decrease in trade and goods exchanges. Today, if we want to revive our of the faithful) but treated people in the worst possible way. India, many Afghans trust India to go there for study, business, and using traditional position, we need to rescue from chronic poverty changing The history is shocking for the nation and fill a large number health its services. In general, India has a high place in the heart of Afghan the landlocked country to land-link country in the heart of Asia. In this of people with hatred. people because of its constructive friendship and relations with Afghan regard, the economic projects which have been initiated by the presi- With leaving a dark history behind, Afghans dreamt for a people. Nevertheless, the friendship with India should never mean hos- dent Ghani can be considered as new historic steps to break the his- peaceful society, particularly following the collapse of the tility with someone else. torical isolation. Although the government of Ghani has many weak- Taliban’s regime. Despite the fact Afghan people have no destructive memory from India nesses in terms creating national oneness, fighting against corruptions, The nation believed that it was the death knell of funda- in soil of Afghanistan; the government of Afghanistan should note that rise of violence and so forth, his economic plans and achievements was mental ideology and murder of innocent civilians. Democ- there is a long competition between India and Pakistan. Therefore, both unique in recent history of Afghanistan. If he wishes to improve in racy, which upholds the rights and dignity of mankind and countries may try to continue its rivalries through soil of Afghanistan. all mentioned fields, he should follow the footsteps of Amanulllah in cherishes humanism and civil society, was likely to pave the No country must be allowed to continue its competition from soil of Af- all fields especially in fields of promoting democracy, civil freedoms, ground for respecting public rights. ghanistan or misuse the relation with Afghanistan in a way to threaten meritocracy, fighting against corruption, insecurity and more impor- With this dream come true, Afghan men and women cele- the interest of other countries. We expect both countries should build tantly creating homophony between deprived people of the country brated democracy through electing their representatives for their constructive relationship with Afghanistan just on the basis of mu- and government. approving Constitution and participating in provincial and tual relation not affecting any third party. Neither the presence of India presidential elections. This was deemed as a unique mile- should be considered as threat to Pakistan and nor the presence of Paki- Mohammad Zahir Akbari is the permanent writer of the Daily Outlook stone in the country’s history. stan should be considered as a threat to India. Given its geographical po- Afghanistan. He can be reached at [email protected] This superficial view and optimism were really naïve of the nation who did not regard the other side of the coin; i.e., the orchestration of the Taliban’s guerilla fighters. The bloodshed of the past re-emerged with the Taliban’s ter- rorist activities, shattering the dream and hope of Afghan na- Europe’s ESG Opportunity tion. Being left despondent, a large number of people aban- doned the country and many others were beset by sufferings. troduce these ideas elsewhere. But in a global economy where each The continuation of tragic episodes and merciless killings left By: Olivia Grégoire and Bertrand Badré country is trying to shape standards to its own advantage, the key is no room for optimism. not merely to defend a model, but to present it to the world as a basis inance is evolving in a more sustainable direction, and just in time. With the escalated militancy, Afghan civilians mainly wom- for further discussion. Pension funds, insurance companies, and sovereign wealth funds Since its inception, the EU has frequently been criticized for its slug- en and children were changed into sacrificial lambs and the F have made multiple commitments on climate change, biodiversity, and gishness and bureaucratic red tape. But in a union of 27 sovereign nascent democracy did not take root. economic inclusion. In each case, the aim is to treat finance as a tool, not states, every decision is necessarily the result of negotiation and com- After all, on the one hand, militancy started with great an end in itself, and to adopt objectives that go well beyond financial promise. Moreover, decisions about what constitutes good or bad force, on the other hand, the “war on terror” involved US- returns.Today, more than $40.5 trillion globally is invested according behavior relative to a norm should not be made lightly. Ironically, led NATO forces in the issue. The war continued for about to environmental, social, and governance principles. But who defines therefore, Europe’s inclusive governance model may give it a com- two decades, but warring factions did not hesitate to keep what constitutes an ESG investment, and how far can we trust ESG petitive edge in shaping global ESG standards. on fighting. The Taliban leadership signed a peace deal with statements issued by corporations? We need a set of genuinely global With its large and prosperous single market, high savings rate, and Washington last year in Doha. Subsequently, they held talks ESG standards – and Europe can, and should, play a leading role in powerful financial sector, Europe can potentially influence these with the Afghan government, but neither of the two issues formulating and implementing them.Far from being a purely technical standards through what Zaki Laïdi calls “norms over force.” This is could bring in peace or stability so far. matter, assessing firms’ non-financial performance is a deeply political the exact opposite of traditional political and military power, or, as With the start talks between the Taliban and the Afghan gov- issue. The first step is the choice of indicators to measure a company’s Laïdi puts it, the “ability to produce and set up a worldwide mecha- ernment, a sense of hope emerged in public air and Afghans environmental or social performance. Then there is the question of es- nism of norms able to structure the world, to curb unruly behavior hoped that the Taliban would declare ceasefire and reduce tablishing baseline ESG standards that Europe, the United States, or from entering players, to offer those who abide by the rules, particu- violence. However, the Taliban have turned their back on the China will require from all firms that want to do business in their mar- larly the less powerful, ample opportunity to make the norms stand peace talks as their delegations have traveled to neighboring ket, as well as a frame of reference that will directly influence financial against all, including the powerful.” countries. They are largely involved in killing soldiers and and investment flows. Furthermore, because measuring non-financial performance goes civilians, including women and children, which shatters the Designing such indicators is an invaluable instrument for building well beyond simple accounting, the transition to a more ecologically public hope. sovereignty. Europe, in many respects a global leader in the environ- and socially sustainable capitalism through participants’ transpar- The Taliban try to hamper democratic progress and flagrantly mental and social domains, should therefore seize the opportunity, and ency and shared responsibility may become the polestar of a new violate the fundamental rights of Afghan citizens. Although advance the case for a different kind of sovereignty that serves as a European identity.At a time when Europe is seeking to outgrow its the Taliban signed a peace agreement with the United States launchpad for global initiatives.Since French President Emmanuel Ma- internal political divisions, the EU has an opportunity to reiterate its and have not killed a single US soldier during the last year, cron advocated building European sovereignty in a 2017 speech, the environmental and social values without requiring member states to they continue spilling the blood of Afghan people, disregard- European Union’s view on the issue has evolved significantly. Nowa- support a particular economic model, but rather by simply sticking ing the public calls for reduction in violence. The Taliban’s days, member states are far less ambivalent about defending European to a results-based approach. Despite their historical and cultural dif- dogmatic mindset and warped mind is the main obstacle to sovereignty, whether in response to emerging digital monopolies, the ferences, member states have many shared values that enable them the peace. Their mindset has not changed towards democrat- economic risks of Brexit, or the public-health threat posed by COVID-19. to agree on the basics on issues such as gender equality or environ- ic values as well as women’s rights and liberties. To safeguard its model and values, Europe can no longer just respond mental protection.One of the founding fathers of European integra- Overall, the Taliban seek to hinder the fulfillment of - Af to events, but needs to be proactive in identifying and initiating mea- tion, Jean Monnet, believed that sovereignty declines when it is en- ghans’ ambition and dream for a society void of violence and sures that will spread beyond its borders. Assessing corporations’ non- trenched in old patterns. Having designed a sovereignty that differs bloodshed. financial performance can form part of a more assertive sovereignty fundamentally from previously tested governance models, the EU Afghans are most likely to lose their hope with the current that also enables Europe to address equally urgent issues such as cli- must now demonstrate its vitality by extending its power beyond situation and their dream for a democratic state has yet to mate change, social problems, and shifting geopolitical alignments.For its single market.More than any other jurisdiction, the EU should come true. In short, the Taliban still seek to rule the coun- example, the EU has set itself far-reaching environmental goals, start- embrace new norms, not fear them. By requiring an evaluation of a try under sacred terms, which is no more acceptable to the ing with achieving carbon neutrality no later than 2050. To that end, it firm’s environmental and social impact before granting access to its people of Afghanistan. recently developed a so-called green taxonomy, a standardized clas- market, the EU would have a unique opportunity to assert both the If the Taliban are not pressured strongly, they are unlikely to sification that enables assessment of the sustainability of 70 economic singularity and the extent of its sovereignty. cease violence. activities that together account for 93% of the EU’s greenhouse-gas In doing so, Europe would contribute to a necessarily global debate With this in mind, Afghanistan’s international allies have to emissions. regarding the transition toward a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive bring the Taliban under pressure to reach a peace agreement On the social front, the EU established the Charter of Fundamental capitalist economic model. This goal was implicit in the Sustainable with the Afghan government and stop their acts of violence. Rights in 2000, and in 2017 proclaimed the European Pillar of Social Development Goals and Paris climate agreement that the world ad- Rights – granting its citizens new and more effective means of ensuring opted in 2015. We now have a duty to make it overt. equal access to the labor market, fair working conditions, and increased social protection. And in October 2020, the European Commission pro- Olivia Grégoire is Minister of State for Social, Solidarity, and Re- posed an EU directive to ensure adequate minimum wages for workers sponsible Economy at the French Ministry of Finance. Bertrand in member states.But here, too, Europe is trapping itself in a defensive Badré, a former managing director of the World Bank, is CEO and situation. Although Europe is protecting its sovereignty by building Founder of Blue like an Orange Sustainable Capital and the author of such an environmental and social framework, it has no desire to in- Can Finance Save the World?

Chairman / Editor-in-Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida Email: [email protected] Phone: 0093 (799) 005019/777-005019 www.outlookafghanistan.net

The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authers and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Daily Outlook Afghanistan. Page 4 February, 13, 2021

(1) Danish Says... sions and border cooperation. supporting peace, and the importance of moderate opponents among Republican on Thursday that three Syrian brothers Meanwhile, Rahmon invited President voters, he said, by ridiculing them as “Nev- were among those arrested, after German dignified peace in the country. The way to regional and international consensus for Ghani to attend the 20th Anniversary of the er Trumpers” and “RINOs” (Republicans authorities had been alerted to an internet continue the war is by no means the way the success of the Afghan peace process. Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the in Name Only). purchase of five kilos of sulphur and five for the country to progress,” Khalili said. He noted that reducing violence, severing event is scheduled to be held in Tajikistan Many people at the Feb. 5 virtual gather- kilos of aluminium powder. (Reuters) Muhammad Mohaqiq, leader of the Hezb- ties with terrorists, advancing sincere and by March 2021. ing agreed with Glassman. In a poll of par- e Wahdat party also speaking in the cer- meaningful negotiations, and preventing (18) UK Economy ... Since the fall of the Taliban regime, Af- ticipants, about 40% of those in attendance emony says that at the moment all the Tali- the released Taliban prisoners from return- ghanistan and Tajikistan have close eco- supported creating an entirely new party, a 2.3% fall in output in November when ban’s commanders are preparing for the ing to the battlefield “were four major com- nomic and trade ties. according to one source with direct knowl- there was a partial lockdown, pointing to war, adding that: “Therefore I am calling mitments that the Taliban failed to fulfill.” Earlier on Wednesday President Moham- edge of the discussions. About 20% favored greater resilience to COVID restrictions on the government to be prepared both for “Minister Atmar also welcomed the new mad Ashraf Ghani and Kassym-Jomart K. creating a faction within the party, and an than at the start of the pandemic. war and defend the country.” (ATN) U.S. administration’s decision to review Tokayev President of the Republic of Ka- the Taliban’s compliance with their com- equal number supported creating a faction That left output 6.3% lower than in Febru- (2) Biden Vows ... zakhstan had a conversation. mitments based on the U.S.-Taliban agree- outside the party, though it remained un- ary before the start of the pandemic, the Of- fice for National Statistics said. when necessary,” Biden said, adding that During the conversation, both sides talked ments, calling it an essential step for ad- clear exactly how such an independent fac- However, the Bank of England forecasts “the central indispensable mission of the over the expansion of bilateral relations, vancing the Afghan peace process.” tion would operate. (Reuters) the economy will shrink by 4% in the first Department of Defense is to deter aggres- trade relations, economic cooperation, re- Meanwhile, Mohammad Qasim Halimi, (13) Biden Moves ... three months of 2021 because of the new sion from our enemies, and if required to, gional issues, and the Afghan peace pro- Minister of Hajj and Endowments, dis- known as “remain in Mexico.” His ad- lockdown and Brexit disruption. fight and win wars to keep America safe.” cess. cussed the formation of a broad consensus ministration suspended new entries into Unemployment has risen much less than But “force should be a tool of last resort, not Both of the leaders focused on working in the Islamic world for ending bloodshed the program when he took office on Jan. feared at the start of the crisis, largely due the first,” he said. together to find an immediate solution for and realizing peace in Afghanistan. 20, but did not immediately put forward a to subsidies to keep people in work, though “The Defense Department is essential for the Afghan students in Kazakhstan. (Khaa- The Islamic countries, reputable institu- plan to bring those already in the program sectors such as hospitality and high-street the work State Department diplomats do ma Press) tions, and organizations (like OIC & MWL), into the United States. retail remain hard hit. around the world. In fact, the president well-known personalities, and Muftis of (4) Afghanistan to Begin ... Republicans embracing Trump’s hard- Last year’s fall in output was the biggest said, DOD personnel are not just the guar- the Islamic world (like Sheikh Qarzawi) under process. line immigration views have criticized the since modern official records began after antors of US security, but often diplomats have consistently disapproved of the war He said that the third category covering ending of MPP and could use it as fuel for World War Two. Longer-running histori- themselves,” he said. in Afghanistan, Halimi said. 60% of the population requires $325 mil- political attacks if illegal immigration in- cal data hosted by the Bank of England In the meantime, the Washington Times The Islamic countries and organizations lion, of which only $76 million remains to creases on Biden’s watch. suggest it was the biggest drop since 1709, reported that has indicated he could aban- have reiterated that attacking schools and be secured. (1TV NEWS) Top Biden officials have stressed in recent when Britain suffered a “Great Frost”. don the approaching May 1 exit deadline universities, destroying infrastructures, weeks that migrants should not attempt to GDP is almost always compared on a to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan. (5) Abdullah Calls ... and killing innocent civilians were in stark enter the United States, saying they need “real” or inflation-adjusted basis, which The February 2020 deal says that all US violation of the principles and teachings of in violence. Has it happened? Of course more time to build up the capacity to pro- shows Britain was the worst performer in troops are supposed to be gone by May the holy religion of Islam, Halimi added. not,” said Abdullah. cess more asylum seekers. the Group of Seven large advanced econo- 2021. (ATN) Meanwhile, Afghan Foreign Minister Ha- “Individuals who are not eligible under mies. But Sunak said Britain did better on But, officials in the Biden administration neef Atmar also weighed in on the stalled (8) OIC Urges ... this initial phase should wait for further a “nominal” basis, which ignores inflation. have said any deal should be based on con- peace process issue on Thursday and called instructions and not travel to the border,” (Reuters) ditions on the ground rather than a date set 2013 had stressed unity for peace in Af- on the international community to review Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro on a calendar. ghanistan. (19) India, Pharmacy ... legal options available in order to force the Mayorkas said in a statement. “Due to the No combat death for US troops The Afghan government always blames Taliban to stick to its commitments as per current pandemic, restrictions at the bor- Roping in more private hospitals, once The US military has gone a full year with- the Taliban for the recent targeted killings, the Doha deal. der remain in place and will be enforced.” identified groups from the general public out a single combat death in Afghanistan but the group denies hand in the attacks. Addressing a press conference, Atmar During a call with reporters on Thursday are given the shots. A government online for the first time in two decades of war, (Pajhwok) said: “All our international partners reit- evening, three Biden administration of- vaccine platform told Reuters it could han- Military Times reported. erated that the Taliban must return to the (9) Saleh Blames ... ficials described the plans to reverse the dle 10 million inoculations a day. Army Sgts. 1st Class Javier Gutierrez and peace process and restart negotiations; if the surge in violence and murders of the program, with the first phase beginning on The health ministry also says India is the Antonio Rodriguez were the last two they want the international community to people—this trust was blind and without a Feb. 19. fastest to reach the 7 million milestone, Americans to die while fighting in the trust them in the peace process, then they strategy, we will not repeat it again,” Saleh “We will start small,” said one of the offi- though immunisation relative to popula- country one year ago, the report said, add- should stick to the commitments made in wrote on Facebook. cials, all of whom requested anonymity. tion has been much higher in many other ing that two others, Army Staff Sgt. Ian the Doha agreement.” Based on the statistics, over the past two The Biden officials declined to name the countries. McLaughlin and Army Pfc. Miguel Vil- Atmar also stated that the new Biden ad- weeks, at least 30 people were killed in Ka- ports where the administration planned to Several big Indian states, such as Tamil lalon, were killed in January of last year. ministration is working with Afghanistan bul as a result of targeted attacks, and 30 begin processing, citing fears that people Nadu and Punjab, have covered fewer The Taliban has said it may still target US on a joint program regarding the peace more wounded. The majority of the victims would rush to those locations. than 40% of their high-risk people such as military members if the Doha agreement is process. (ATN) were civilians. The United States developed the strategy nurses, doctors and hospital cleaning staff, violated. This comes as US National Se- The Taliban, however, has denied any role in close coordination with Mexican author- worrying the federal government. curity Adviser Jake Sullivan in a telephonic (6) Atmar Seeks ... in the attacks. ities, according to the officials. (Reuters) India has deployed the COVAXIN shot de- conversation with his Afghan counterpart understands the situation in the region, “The Taliban group is trying to mobilize veloped by Bharat Biotech in partnership Hamdullah Mohib on Jan. 22 said the (14) Three Wounded ... they also understand the situation in Af- the public mindset against the Afghan with the state-run Indian Council of Medi- Biden administration would review the ghanistan. Most likely, they will choose the government by creating a state of fear and got shot – one woman in the womb, one cal Research, as well as a vaccine licensed Trump administration’s February 2020 US- middle option in which the two sides will chaos,” said Ahmad Zia Warsaji, head of man on his cheek and one man on his from AstraZeneca and Oxford University. Taliban agreement, the White House said agree,” said Rahmatullah Nabil, the former the media department of the office of First arm,” said Myanmar Red Cross official Some doctors and the opposition-ruled in a press release. head of the Afghan intelligence agency— Vice President. Kyaw Myint, who witnessed the clash. state of Chhattisgarh, however, are wor- There are 2,500 troops left in Afghanistan, the National Directorate of Security (NDS). “If the Taliban are involved in such inci- “The crowd is still growing,” he added. ried about COVAXIN, which was ap- and the agreement between the Taliban Atmar also stressed that a regional con- dents in the area, they should accept the Doctors do not expect a 19-year-old woman proved last month for emergency use with- and former US President Trump stipu- sensus has been reached about the Afghan responsibility and respond. If the govern- shot during a protest in the capital Naypy- out any efficacy data from a late-stage trial. lated that all of them should be removed peace process. ment is involved, then the government itaw on Tuesday to survive. She was hit in (Reuters) by May 2021. Republican US Senator He said the Afghan government is trying to should respond to the people,” said Sayed the head with a live round fired by police. Lindsey Graham in an interview with CBS (20) Bitcoin Soars ... further strengthen this consensus. Akbar Agha, a former Taliban commander. As Washington announced sanctions, Eu- has said that the American troops will not Atmar stated that the regional countries What do residents say? ropean Union lawmakers on Thursday Inc said it was planning to offer support for leave Afghanistan in May, supporting the have also expressed their support for the “There is no security anywhere,” said Bilal, called for action from their countries and some cryptocurrencies on its network this Biden administration’s stance on Afghani- current system in Afghanistan in recent dis- a resident in PD5 of Kabul. Britain said it was considering measures to year. stan and its bid to review the US-Taliban cussions with the Taliban. “If you don’t clear the things from the high- punish the coup leaders. But Luca Paolini, chief strategist at Pictet agreement. Nevertheless, the US President Joe Biden in er level, then you can’t figure it out from Supporters of Suu Kyi’s National League Asset Management, said corporations “I’m very pleased with what the Biden ad- his first visit to the Pentagon as commander- the lower level,” said Aziz, a resident in for Democracy (NLD) welcomed the U.S. were hedging themselves against the pos- ministration is proposing for Afghanistan. in-chief, has promised to work with Secre- Kabul. sanctions but said tougher action was sibility that bitcoin succeeds. We’re going to keep troops there on a con- tary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin and leaders “No one knows where the suicide attackers needed. “And so companies probably do what ditions-based approach,” Graham said. around the world “to bring a responsible really exist—whether they are on the street, The junta remitted the sentences of more some retail investors are doing, to say well In response to a question that will the US end to wars that have dragged on for far too at home or in a car, no one knows,” said than 23,000 prisoners on Friday, saying the this bitcoin will probably fail, but there is troops leave Afghanistan post may, Gra- long, while continuing to ensure that terror- Kabul resident Fardeen. move was consistent with “establishing a still a low chance that it may not fail. And ham said, “I think we’re not going to leave ist threats cannot endanger the security of Based on TOLOnews statistics, 270 people new democratic state with peace, develop- so, they want to be part of it,” he told the in May. We’re going to leave when the con- the American people.” were killed and 347 more wounded in ment and discipline” and would “please Reuters Global Markets Forum. ditions are right. The the Taliban have been “As your commander in chief, I will never January alone across the country as a result the public”. (Reuters) Rival cryptocurrency ethereum was 3% cheating. They haven’t been complying. hesitate to use force to defend the vital in- of 214 explosions, group attacks and shoot- higher at $1,793.88 after hitting a record And so I like what Secretary Blinken and (15) Russia ‘Ready’ ... terest of America, the American people and ings. (TOLO NEWS) high of $1,839 on Wednesday, days after its the Biden administration is doing.” our allies around the world when neces- that the EU must take a firm stance in its futures began trading on the Chicago Mer- “They’re reevaluating our presence in Af- sary,” Biden said, adding that “the central (10) Afghan Railway ... relations with Russia, pointing to ongoing cantile Exchange. ghanistan to keep the footprint low, but not indispensable mission of the Department of Heart’s Torghondi was also operational conflicts in Ukraine, Belarus and the south- Some market participants though contin- to walk away and lose all the gains we’ve Defense is to deter aggression from our en- but according to the agreement, Turkmeni- ern Caucasus. ued to advise caution. achieved,” Graham said. “If we leave too emies, and if required to, fight and win wars stan collected the revenue of exports and “It will be for the member states to decide “Investors must remember that bitcoin is soon without a conditions-based with- to keep America safe.” imports. the next step, but yes, this could include not a simple, get-rich-scheme. In reality, it drawal, Daesh and al-Qaeda will come But “force should be a tool of last resort, not He said once Turkmenistan generated rev- sanctions. And I will put forward concrete has been, and will continue to be, suscepti- roaring back. Women will suffer greatly. the first,” he said. “The Defense - Depart enue to compensate their expense on the proposals, using the right of initiative the ble to downward price swings – especially So they’re in a good spot, I think, on Af- ment is essential for the work State Depart- railroad construction, Afghanistan would high representative has,” Borrell told EU when the short-term winners look to with- ghanistan.” ment diplomats do around the world. In start collecting the revenue which would lawmakers on Tuesday. (Euronews) draw their earnings,” said Gavin Smith, A study group appointed by US Congress fact, the president said, DOD personnel are further help improve the country’s income. (16) Uzbekistan Aims ... chief executive officer of cryptocurrency calls on the Biden administration to slow not just the guarantors of US security, but Mirzakwal said trains using the railway consortium, Panxora Group. the withdrawal of US forces from Afghani- often diplomats themselves,” he said. track were charged tariff and $10 were Uzbek alphabet based on the Latin alphabet “While another upwards price run is on the stan, remove the May 1 exit deadline and In the meantime, the Washington Times charged against one tonne of load, which in 2019. horizon, investors should remain cautious instead reduce the number of troops only reported that has indicated he could aban- was economical compared to air and trans- The updated alphabet consists of 30 charac- and look to implement a steady risk man- as security conditions improve in the coun- don the approaching May 1 exit deadline to port charges. (Pajhwok) ters: 29 letters and an apostrophe to denote agement strategy,” he added. (Reuters) a hard sign, specific sounds, or intonations.. try. The report finds that removing inter- withdraw US troops from Afghanistan. (21) Australian City ... national forces by the May 1 deadline set in The February 2020 deal says that all US (11) Pregnant Afghan ... In neighboring Kazakhstan, the process of the US-Taliban peace agreement could lead troops are supposed to be gone by May another. They said they succumbed to the switching to the Latin alphabet has been Largely blamed on lax infection control to a civil war in Afghanistan. 2021. However, officials in the Biden admin- business offer for their organs due to pov- going on since 2017, when former President procedures at two Melbourne hotels where The Afghanistan Study Group began its istration have said any deal should be based erty and unemployment. Nursultan Nazarbaev first instructed the international travelers were required to Congressionally mandated work in April on conditions on the ground rather than a Some women and children are among government to work on the transition to a quarantine for 14 days. 2020, just weeks after the US and the Tali- date set on a calendar. (TOLO NEWS) those who have sold kidneys. Latin-based alphabet by 2025. At the time, the rest of Australia was relax- Another Central Asian country, Turkmeni- ing restrictions due to low case numbers ban signed an agreement on February 2020 (7) International Community ... Six residents of the village, who were dis- on the conditions for a US troop with- placed from neighboring Badghis province, stan, switched from the Cyrillic script to after an initial nationwide lockdown. drawal that would end US’ long military expressing their deep concern over the es- said they sold their kidneys due to poverty. Latin in 1993, while Azerbaijan, a Turkic- Some Australian states have imposed engagement in Afghanistan. calation of violence and targeted killings of They were paid $300,000 Afs ($3,800) each. speaking former Soviet republic in the border restrictions on travelers from Mel- “We have an interest in an Afghanistan civilians, have reiterated their support for Later on, local officials said that they have South Caucasus, replaced its Cyrillic-based bourne. Federal lawmakers were on Friday that respects basic human rights. We do the continuation of peace negotiations and assigned a task team to probe the issue in alphabet with the current Latin-based script rushing to get to the national capital Can- not, however, believe that securing these advancing the Afghan-led Afghan-owned Herat. on December 25, 1991. berra to attend Parliament on Monday for interests requires a permanent US military peace process,” the statement said In Herat, two hospitals--Luqman-e-Hakim The Soviet-era transition of Turkic languag- fear that the Australian Capital Territory presence in Afghanistan,” the group said in “They also welcomed and supported the and Aria Afghan--are carrying out the kid- es to Cyrillic was in part implemented to government will restrict their entry. the report. efforts and principled stance of the Afghan ney transplants. (TOLO NEWS) distance Central Asian states and Azerbai- Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Health The report said that: “An immediate diplo- Government towards the fulfillment of the jan from Turkey, which as part of a West- Minister Greg Hunt were in Melbourne to matic effort to extend the current May 2021 commitments by all involved parties, the (12) Anti-Trump ... ernization drive changed its Persian-Arabic inspect biotechnology company CSL Ltd.’s withdrawal date in order to give the peace establishment of a ceasefire, and achiev- Republicans to try to purge Trumpism script to a Latin one in the 1920s. plant where a local version of the Astra- process sufficient time to produce -an ac ing a comprehensive political solution from within its own ranks, said David The switch away from Arabic script among Zeneca vaccine is being manufactured. ceptable result.” (TOLO NEWS) commensurate with the will of the Afghan Jolly, a former Republican congressman Turkic languages in the former Soviet Morrison said before the lockdown was people,” the statement read. from Florida who recently quit the party in Union was designed to distance the Mus- announced that he was confident the state (3) President Ghani ... According to the statement, FM Atmar has protest of Trump and declared himself an lim Central Asian nations from the Islamic government could handle the cluster. government on regional connectivity and briefed the participants about the challeng- independent. world. (RFERL) “I wouldn’t be here if I wasn’t confident,” the Afghan-led-owned peace process, the es of the second round of peace talks, Tali- A party of center-right conservatives could (17) Danish, German ... Morrison told reporters. “I’ve just flown statement said. ban’s regional trips and the group’s failure never create a broad enough coalition to down from Sydney today. That’s why I’m According to the statement, the two leaders to live up to its commitments, the Islamic win national elections, Jolly said. And for the person arrested in Germany. here. Business as usual for me being in also stressed economical and trade expan- world’s solidarity in condemning war and Trump has effectively undercut his more German magazine Der Spiegel reported Melbourne here today.” (AP) Page 5 February13, 2021 International Page

WASHINGTON- A group of former Republican offi- Anti-Trump Republicans Face Major cials considering a new center-right political party to counter former President Donald Trump’s influence Challenge in Launching Third Party UK Economy Slumps by would face steep challenges in shaking up a U.S. po- Record 10% in 2020 litical system that has favored two-party rule through- out its history. after COVID Hit Reuters exclusively reported on Wednesday that more than 120 Republicans - including former elected offi- LONDON- Britain’s Britain will escape two cials, along with former administrators under Trump coronavirus-ravaged straight quarters of con- and former presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. economy suffered its traction - the standard Bush and George W. Bush - met virtually on Feb. 5 biggest crash in output definition of recession to discuss forming a third party or a new center-right in more than 300 years in Europe - even though faction. in 2020 when it slumped the economy is set to Two of the most prominent anti-Trump Republicans by 9.9%, but it avoided shrink in early 2021 due in Congress - Rep. heading back towards to the effects of a third Liz Cheney of Wyoming and Rep. Adam Kinzinger recession at the end of COVID lockdown. of Illinois - rejected the idea of a breakaway party in the year and looks on “As and when restric- statements to Reuters on Thursday. course for a recovery in tions are eased, we con- Other Republican critics of Trump expressed similar 2021. tinue to expect a vig- skepticism - arguing a third party would accomplish Official figures showed orous rebound in the little beyond splitting the votes of conservatives and gross domestic product economy,” said Dean helping Democrats get elected. (GDP) grew 1.0% from Turner, an economist The resistance to a third party among some of October through Decem- at UBS Global Wealth Trump’s toughest Republican critics underscores the ber, the top of a range of Management. extreme difficulty of such a political revolt. Such an ef- “If somebody was going to start a third party that was of Georgia. economists’ forecasts in Britain’s economy grew fort would require walking away from the Republican going to gain some traction, it would be Trump” and A spokesman for Cheney told Reuters in a statement a Reuters poll. 1.2% in December alone, Party’s massive political infrastructure - staff, money, not his opponents, said Conant. that she opposes “any effort to split the party,” saying This makes it likely that after ...(More on P4)...(18) connections and data on donors and voters - that Kinzinger joined the Feb. 5 video conference of the it would only make it easier for Democrats to enact would take years if not decades to build from scratch. anti-Trump group and spoke for about five minutes, policies that conservatives oppose. An upstart party would also have little chance of suc- a spokeswoman told Reuters. But the congressman Both Cheney and Kinzinger were among just 10 India, Pharmacy of the ceeding without a charismatic leader who could cap- wants to “reform the party from within,” she said. He House Republicans, a small minority, who voted to World, Falls Behind on ture the loyalties of millions of disaffected voters, said has recently formed a new political action commit- impeach Trump on a charge of inciting the Jan. 6 in- Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who was a senior tee to support Republican primary challengers run- surrection at the U.S. Capitol. Vaccinations at Home advisor to the Republican primary campaign of Marco ning against pro-Trump House Republicans such as A more likely outcome of an anti-Trump movement NEW DELHI- India has grammes usually start Rubio, a Senator from Florida, in 2016. Matt Gaetz, of Florida, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, would be for centrist ...(More on P4)...(12) won plaudits for gifting off slow and then ramp and selling COVID-19 up as logistic and opera- vaccines around the tional issues are sorted Biden Moves to Bring in Asylum world, but it will have to out,” said Gagandeep Three Wounded as Hundreds of crank up the pace of im- Kang, Professor of Mi- Seekers Forced to Wait in Thousands of Protesters Defy Myanmar Junta munisations at home to crobiology at the Chris- Mexico under Trump Program meet its targets. tian Medical College in Having reported the Vellore. Myanmar told a special session world’s second-highest “In India, we are fortu- WASHINGTON- The U.S. government next week of the Human Rights Council in number of COVID-19 nate that supply of vac- will begin to gradually process asylum seekers forced Geneva that there were “growing cases after the United cines is not a rate-lim- to wait in Mexico under a controversial program put reports, photographic evidence” States, India wants to iting step, but to meet in place by former President Donald Trump, officials that security forces have used live innoculate 300 million the timelines set by the said. ammunition against protesters, in people - a fifth of its government, we will The moves are part of a plan by the administration of violation of international law. population - against the have to immunise some- President Joe Biden to end the program, known as the The mass protests on Friday were virus by August. where between 4 and 5 Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), an effort compli- mostly peaceful but were the big- However, in four weeks times more people each cated by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and con- gest so far, and came a day after health workers vaccinat- day than we are doing cerns over illegal immigration. Washington slapped sanctions on ed only 7.5 million front- today.” The Trump administration launched the program in generals who led the takeover. line workers on priority, The government says 2019 as part of a wide-ranging crackdown on the abil- Three people were wounded a rate at which it would it is ready to step up ity to seek asylum in the United States, which Trump when police fired rubber bul- take India several years vaccinations from next officials depicted as rife with fraud and meritless lets to break up a crowd of tens to reach its goal. month, including by claims. The initiative forced more than 65,000 non- of thousands in the southeastern “Vaccination pro- Mexican asylum seekers back across the border to wait city of Mawlamyine, a Myanmar ...(More on P4)...(19) for their U.S. court hearings, although far fewer are be- Supporters of ousted Myanmar office said more than 350 people, Red Cross official told Reuters. lieved to still be in Mexico. leader Aung San Suu Kyi clashed including officials, activists and Footage broadcast by Radio Free The Biden administration will begin by working to with police on Friday as hun- monks, have been arrested in Asia showed police charging Bitcoin Soars to All-Time process about 25,000 migrants with active claims in the dreds of thousands joined nation- Myanmar since the Feb. 1 mili- at protesters, grabbing one and High After BNY Mellon program, officials said on Thursday. wide pro-democracy demonstra- tary coup, including some who smashing him in the head. Stones Biden vowed on the campaign trail to roll back restric- tions in defiance of the junta’s call face criminal charges on “dubi- were then thrown at police before Announces Crypto Venture to halt mass gatherings. ous grounds”. tive Trump-era immigration policies, including MPP, the shots were fired. NEW YORK- Bitcoin 2020.The BNY Mellon The United Nations human rights The U.N. rights investigator for which is informally ...(More on P4)...(13) “Three ...(More on P4)...(14) on Thursday jumped announcement came to a fresh all-time high just days after Elon after BNY Mellon said Musk’s Tesla revealed it Russia ‘Ready’ for a Break in Relations with it formed a new unit to had bought $1.5 billion Uzbekistan Aims for Full help clients hold, trans- worth of the cryptocur- the EU, Says Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Transition to Latin-Based fer, and issue digital as- rency and would soon sets. accept it as a form of Russia’s foreign minister Sergey Alphabet by 2023 The new unit at BNY payment for its cars. Lavrov suggested his country Mellon is expected to roll After long being must “prepare for war” if it wants Uzbekistan plans to fully transition the Uzbek lan- out the offerings later shunned by traditional peaceful relations with the Euro- guage from the Cyrillic script to a Latin-based alpha- this year, the bank said. financial firms, bitcoin pean Union as the 27-nation bloc bet by January 1, 2023. Bitcoin hit a record high has finally entered the considers economic sanctions. The Justice Ministry said in a statement on February of $48,481.45 earlier on mainstream. Lavrov said the EU was Russia’s 11 that the government approved the target date and Thursday and was last Last month, BlackRock largest trading and investment a corresponding road map for the plan a day earlier. up 6.9% at $47,932. The Inc, the world’s largest partner, but that his country need- The government’s decision comes less than four largest virtual currency asset manager, added ed to be prepared in case “sanc- months after President Shavkat Mirziyoev issued a in terms of market capi- bitcoin as an eligible in- tions are imposed in some areas decree to expedite the full transition of the Uzbek talization has gained vestment to two funds, that create risks for our economy, language to a Latin-based alphabet. about 66% so far this and on Wednesday, including in the most sensitive ar- Uzbek, as well as other Central Asian languages, was year and soared roughly credit card giant Master- eas”. written in an Arabic script until the late 1920s. 1,200% since mid-March card ...(More on P4)...(20) He was asked in the interview, re- It then switched to Latin script as part of a larger leased by the Soloviev Live You- words since last week’s visit to Latinization of Turkic languages, before the Soviets Tube channel on Friday, whether Ministry. Moscow by Josep Borrell, the EU’s introduced Cyrillic in 1940. Australian City Melbourne Russia was heading for a “break” “We do not want to isolate our- foreign policy chief. In 1993, less than two years after the collapse of the with the European Union. selves from world life, but we During the trip he called for the re- Soviet Union, Uzbekistan began to transition back to Begins 3rd Lockdown “We proceed from the fact that must be ready for this. If you want lease of Alexei Navalny, the jailed a Latin script but Cyrillic is still widely used. Due to Cluster we are ready [for that],” Lavrov peace, prepare for war.” Russian opposition leader. After going through various iterations, a working replied, according to a transcript European and Russian officials Borrell later told the European group at Tashkent State University presented a fi- MELBOURNE- Mel- A population of 6.5 mil- released by the Russian Foreign have been exchanging strong Parliament ...(More on P4)...(15) nal draft of the updated ...(More on P4)...(16) bourne, Australia’s lion will be locked down second-largest city, will from 11:59 p.m. until the begin its third lockdown same time on Wednes- Danish, German Police France, Germany and the UK Call on on Friday due to a rapid- day because of a conta- ...(More on P4)...(27) Arrest 14 over Alleged ly spreading COVID-19 gious British variant of Iran to End Its Uranium Metal Production cluster centered on hotel the virus first detected Terrorist Attack Plan quarantine. at a Melbourne Airport COPENHAGEN- Danish police said they have ar- The five-day lockdown hotel that has infected 13 rested 13 people in the last week, while German will be enforced across people. police have arrested one more, on suspicion of at- Victoria state to prevent Andrews said the rate of tempting to make explosives and planning a ter- the virus spreading from spread demanded dras- rorist attack in either Denmark or Germany. the state capital, Victo- tic action to avoid a new “These people could be inspired by militant Islam- rian Premier Daniel An- surge in Melbourne. ism,” the chief of operations in the Danish intelli- drews said. “The game has changed. gence service, Flemming Dreyer, told a press brief- The Australian Open This thing is not the 2020 ing on. tennis tournament will virus. It is very differ- “We have found the ingredients and parts needed be allowed to continue ent. It is much faster. It to make a bomb,” Dreyer added. but without spectators, spreads much more eas- The arrests followed a joint Danish-German law he said. ily,” Andrews told re- enforcement operation. Danish police said a state- Only international porters. “I am confident ment late on Thursday they believed “there are in- flights that were already that this short, sharp dividuals with the intent and capacity to commit in the air when the lock- circuit breaker will be ef- terrorist attacks in Denmark”. down was announced fective. We will be able An Islamic State flag, a pump gun, a hunting rifle We, the governments of France, conduct research and develop- We strongly urge Iran to halt these will be allowed to land to smother this.” and ignition devices for explosives were among Germany and the United King- ment on uranium metallurgy for activities without delay and not to at Melbourne Airport. Melbourne emerged the items found in searches. dom, note with grave concern the 15 years. take any new non-compliant steps Schools and many busi- from a 111-day lock- Seven of those arrested in Denmark have been recent confirmation by the IAEA Recalling our statement of 16 Jan- on its nuclear programme. In es- nesses will be closed. down in October fol- charged with committing or aiding in attacks af- that Iran is producing uranium uary, we reiterate that Iran has no calating its non-compliance, Iran Residents are ordered to lowing a fresh wave of ter allegedly acquiring materials and components metal in violation of the JCPoA. credible civilian justification for is undermining the opportunity stay at home except to infections that peaked for manufacturing explosives and firearms. Police Under the JCPoA, Iran commit- these activities, which are a key for renewed diplomacy to fully exercise and for essential at 725 cases a day. It was did not say what the charges were for the other six ted not to engage in producing step in the development of a nu- realise the objectives of the JCPoA. purposes. ...(More on P4)...(21) people arrested nor ...(More on P4)...(17) or acquiring uranium metal or to clear weapon. (Ambafrance) www.outlookafghanistan.net www.thedailyafghanistan.net @The.Daily.Outlook.Afghanistan @The.Daily.Afghanistan [email protected] [email protected] 0093 799-005019/ 777-005019 0093 799-005019/ 777-005019 In front of Habibia High School, In front of Habibia High School, District 6, Kabul, Afghanistan District 6, Kabul, Afghanistan

Back Page Saturday February, 13, 2021

Daily Outlook Kabul Sunny Bamiyan Sunny Herat Sunny Mazar Sunny Kandahar Sunny Ghazni Sunny Jalalabad Partly Weather Forcast cloudy 18°C 8°C 23°C 21°C 26°C 15°C 26°C

1°C -6°C 4°C 8°C 6°C -1°C 9°C

US Embassy to Abdullah Calls Out Taliban Afghan Officials, for Stalled Peace Talks ‘Stop Corruption’ KABUL - Abdullah Abdullah, will anyone lose in peace.” Chairman of the High Council “At this point, the Taliban’s for National Reconciliation, on stance is pretty harsh and this Thursday spoke out against the does not help as we proceed Taliban who he says has taken with the job at hand; they say a “harsh stance” in relation to that the prisoners should be the current peace talks. released, the foreigners must Addressing an event to mark withdraw, they should be the establishment of a commis- dropped from the (UN) black- sion for political parties under list,” he said adding that the the HCNR, Abdullah said: “At Taliban also want other condi- this moment, the Taliban has tions met before they will agree taken a hard stance, which un- to a ceasefire. fortunately is not helping the On whether the Taliban has situation.” stuck to its commitments as per “Our delegation is still in Doha the agreement signed with the and we are in contact and we US in February last year, Ab- KABUL - The US Embassy in Kabul is urging hope this deadlock is only short dullah said one of the precon- government officials who have “squandered” the term,” he said. ditions was a reduction in vio- budget allocated to the fight against the Corona- “We know that nobody will lence. This has not happened, virus to stop corruption. win through war,” Abdullah he said. According to the US embassy, dozens of Afghan said, adding that the same ap- “One of the foundations of the officials were introduced for the prosecution to plied to peace – that “neither agreement is a reduction... The Attorney General’s Office for embezzlement More on Num(Page (5) 4) in the COVID-19 budget. U.S embassy tweeted that “This malfeasance costs Afghan citizens not just financially, but in delayed access to potentially life-saving medical Atmar Seeks Intl International Community Expresses Concern care”. This comes as The Ministry of Public Health on Legal Action to Over Escalation of Violence in Afghanistan Friday announced that with the international KABUL - International com- funding programs 16 million more doses of coro- Compel Taliban to munities have expressed their navirus vaccine will be available for the public. “deep concern” over the esca- Based on the decision of the National Security Keep Promises lation of violence and targeted Council and the instructions of the President, the killings of civilians in Afghani- first phase of the vaccine will be applied to the stan. health workers and the Afghan defense forces. The sixth round of consensus- Members and media employees will be the sec- building meetings for peace in ond prioritized group to receive the vaccine jabs Afghanistan was held in Kabul as they are directly involved with others and the on Thursday. risks of contracting the virus in them are much Foreign Minister Mohammad higher. Haneef Atmar, high-ranking According to MoPH in the initial category, 20% government officials, ambas- and international partners had “Ambassadors and representa- of the population will be vaccinated, the second sadors, and representatives of participated in the summit, the tives of regional and inter- part of the category includes 16 million of the Asian and European countries, Ministry of Foreign Affairs said national countries and public to be immunized against the COVID-19 and Afghanistan’s regional in a statement. organizations, while... virus. (Khaama Press) KABUL - Afghan Minister of Foreign Affairs More on Num(Page (7) 4) Mohammad Hanif Atmar at a press conference on Thursday said that over 30 nations have called on the Taliban to resume the peace nego- tiations in Doha. OIC Urges 5 Security Personnel Killed in Attack He urged the international community to review legal options to press the Taliban to abide by its Immediate End to While Escorting UN Convoy commitments to the US-Taliban peace agree- KABUL - At least five personnel ment signed between the two sides in Doha last Violence in Afghanistan of the Afghan Directorate of Pro- February. KABUL - The Organization of Islamic Coopera- tection Service were killed while “All our international partners reiterated today tion (OIC) has condemned bombings, targeted escorting a UN envoy on the that the Taliban must return to the peace process killings and escalating violence in Afghanistan Kabul-Jalalabad highway, the and restart the negotiations—if they want the in- in which mostly civilians lost their lives. United Nations Assistance Mis- ternational community to trust them in the peace OIC secretary general Yousef bin Ahmad Al- sion in Afghanistan (UNAMA) process, then they should abide by their commit- Othaimeen in a statement on Thursday called confirmed on Thursday night. ments in the Doha agreement,” said Atmar. for an immediate end to the violence in Afghan- “The UN family in Afghanistan Atmar said the new US administration is review- istan, urging all parties to work for the success mourns the loss of five Afghan ing the US agreement with the Taliban and that of the intra-Afghan peace talks. Directorate of Protection Service the United States and Afghanistan are working The OIC chief said violence was not a solution personnel in an incident today in on a joint program about the peace process. and that the Afghan-led peace process was the Surobi District of Kabul. No UN on Thursday, security sources died offering protection (to) Referring to the US troop withdrawal, Atmar only way to achieve peace and reconciliation. personnel were hurt or vehicle said. our staff, as they do on so many said that the complete drawdown of US forces He reiterated the organization’s support for affected in an attack which hit a Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Sec- days. The UN has expressed its from Afghanistan will be based on the condi- peace and security and development in Af- DPS vehicle that was escorting a retary General’s Deputy Special deepest condolences to Govt tions on the ground. ghanistan. UN convoy,” UNAMA tweeted. Representative for Afghanistan, of Afghanistan ... Violence in What do Afghan politicians expect of the Foreign ministers of Organization of Islam- The incident reportedly oc- offered condolences: Afghanistan must end,” tweet- Biden administration? ic Cooperation (OIC) member countries curred in Tangi Abreshum area “My thoughts and prayers are ed Ramiz Alakbarov. (TOLO “The United States of American ... at a meeting in Nigeria in November... of Surobi district around 10 am with families of officers who NEWS) More on Num(Page (6) 4) More on (PageNum (84)

Saleh Blames Released Taliban for Afghan Railway Revenue Violence, No More ‘Blind Trust’ 30pc Up This Year: Mirzakwal peace deal are playing a major tions and the recent attacks on ARA Assistant Administration this year was 30 percent more role in the rising security threat the employees of the Ministry and Finance head MirwaisMir- than the revenue collected in the to the country. of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of zakwal told Pajhwok Afghan past year. He said the revenue Saleh added that he is ready to Rural Rehabilitation and Devel- News that Afghanistan was con- had been dispatched to the na- prove case-by-case that the re- opment and Ministry of Agricul- nected through the railroad with tional treasury. leased prisoners are involved in ture, Saleh said that those Tali- Uzbekistan in Hiratan Port and When asked how the revenue the current violence against the ban members who were released with Turkmenistan in Aqina surged, Mirzakwal said that people. are behind these attacks, and Andkhoi Port. other routes had been closed However, a number of citizens that the Afghan government will He said Afghan businessmen and most of the exports and have said that the dramatic surge no longer release more Taliban used the ports for their trade ac- imports took place through in the scale of violence and a rise members from the jails in good tivities with the two neighbour- railway tracks which helped in- KABUL - Afghanistan’s First in the targeted attacks is rooted faith. KABUL - The Afghanistan Rail- ing countries. crease the revenue. Vice President Amrullah Saleh in the failure of the Afghan secu- “We are ready to prove case- way Authority (ARA) collected Mirzakwal said in the outgoing In addition, he said, transpar- said on Thursday that those Tali- rity and intelligence agencies. by-case that the 5,500 Taliban three and half billion afghanis solar year, the ARA generated ency and reforms in ARA also ban prisoners who were released Referring to the recent spate of prisoners that we released in revenue during the outgoing over three billion afghanis rev- contributed to the surge from the Afghan government targeted attacks on the employ- for peace--they are some- solar year, showing a 30 percent enue. in revenue. He said the jails as part of the US-Taliban ees of the government institu- how involved in... increase over last year’s returns. He added the revenue collected railway track from... More on Num(Page (9) 4) More onNum (Page (10) 4)