Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XI Issue No:313 Price: Afs.20

www.afghanistantimes.af www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimes www.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes WEDNESDAY . JUNE 19. 2019 -Jawza 29, 1398 HS

AT News Report reconciliation is to hold the group refused to meet the Afghan seventh round of talks with the government and also did not KABUL: The in the next coming days announce ceasefire. agreed to pull troops out of in the Qatari capital of . As peace talks heat up, during peace talks, The U.S. troop withdrawal widespread combat between the AT News Report terrorism.” This comes as the said Taliban officials.Suhail is one of important issues that government forces and the Taliban United Nations already announced Shaheen, spokesperson for the U.S.-Taliban talks focused on. insurgents continues across the KABUL: The National Security that over 3,000 civilians were killed Taliban’s political office based in Taliban in response, are said to country. The bloodshed claims Adviser, Hamdullah Mohib said in the last Afghan year (2018 – , said on Twitter where that guarantee that Afghanistan lives of dozens each day. that at least 50 people lose their 2019) in nationwide conflicts. “the U.S. would pull troops out would not be used again by Hamdullah Mohib, National lives every day due to the ongoing Also, President Mohammad of the country and would stop international terrorist networks Security Advisor to President war and conflicts in Afghanistan. Ashraf Ghani has announced that interfering in the country”. But to threaten the US and its allies’ Ashraf Ghani, on Tuesday Addressing a security more than 45,000 security forces he didn’t elaborate about the security. acknowledged at a security meeting held in Moscow, Mohib had been killed since he took the time of the drawdown. Since September 2018, Mr. meeting in Russia that at least 50 said Tuesday that there was a high office in September 2014. , U.S. Khalilzad had six rounds of the security forces per day lose their concentration of threats in the Mohib’s remarks show a mass special representative for Afghan talks with the Taliban, but the lives to the violence. region. He emphasized that increases compared to the past countering terrorism needs reports over Afghan death toll collective action. The National caused by conflicts. But there are Security Council quoted Mohib serious concerns over the security on Twitter as saying: “At least forces’ death toll, as the Afghan 50 people pay the ultimate government does not officially sacrifice in the fight against publish it with the media. terrorism on a daily basis, which Mohib flew on Monday to makes Afghanistan as the country Russia to participate in a high at the frontlines fighting against security meeting.

AT News Report By Farhad Naibkhail sidelines of the second - from 11th June to boost people to KABUL: At least 62 militants South Asia Cooperation Forum people’s connections and build were killed and 32 others KABUL: The China-South Asia (C-SACF) at the lakeside of constructive relation... wounded in multiple extensive Media Forum was launched at the Fuxian Lake in Yuxi city of China military crackdowns within past 24 hours, security officials said. In a statement issued Tuesday...

Presidential candidate Ibrahim Alokozai on Tuesday accused President Ashraf Ghani of “dictatorship, selfishness and AT News Report egoism” in running the country’s affairs. He said the president is AT News Report continuing appointments in the KABUL: A new polio case has government institutions as routine KABUL: At least 30 drug dealers been reported by local officials in which is in contravention the law were pleaded guilty to drug southern Uruzgan province. Dr. and the political ethics. trafficking and were sentenced to Saifudin, head of the polio “He [President Ghani] is like year behind bars in the past one campaign for Uruzgan said on a ‘dictator’ and a ‘selfish’ week. A statement issued by the Tuesday that a two years old kid individual who commits ‘illegal courts of Criminal Justice Task was affected by polio in Meher actions’ but implements the law on Ghani to respect the demands Force (CJTF) that 30 drug Abad village of Terinkot city, the on others,” said Alokozai. “At of the candidates. “This traffickers sentenced to one – 16 provincial capital. “Family of the least 270 guards were assigned to government was ‘illegitimate’ years’ incarceration after polio affected kid lives on the one of his deputies, but for other from the beginning. It came with examining their dossiers by outskirts of Terinkot city and candidates, guards were hired from the support of John Kerry,” said primary and appeal court of CJTF. they (family) did not have ... private security firms.” Fraidoon, a civil society activist The Counter Narcotics.... Alokozai’s supporters called in Kabul. (TOLONews) WEDNESDAY . JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Bamyanisseem littleinterested in upcoming polls

Members of electoral monitoring organizations said the conflicting remarks will affect the elections. while the commission’s million,” said Habiburrahman spokesman has put the figure at Nang, head of IEC secretariat. 41,000 voters during this period. “The exact budget for the Meanwhile, a commissioner of the elections is estimated $149.8 IEC on Sunday said that the million,” said IEC commissioner country’s election management Rahima Zarifi. body is grappling with a series of According to the observers, problems that need to be tackled the IEC has finalized $146 or at least reduced. million as the budget for the On the election budget, IEC elections. BAMYAN : The remoteness of participation of people in the chief announced that they had “This harms public trust and voter registration centers, wide- voter registration process, he finalized $146 million draft budget the democratic process and a spread rigging in the Wolesi Jirga hoped the turnout would increase. for the elections. But later on, head national process. The IEC elections and lack of trust over According to him, around 120 of the IEC secretariat put the leadership and the secretariat are the Independent Election polling stations have been amount to $150 million. However, not coming up on a single Commission (IEC) are to blame approved by the IEC for a commissioner from the IEC remark,” said Marwa Amini, for lack of people’s interest in presidential election. dismissed both statements on the spokeswoman for Free and Fair the upcoming presidential “About 52 percent women election budget and announced a Election Foundation of election in central Bamyan and 48 percent men had third figure about the budget. Afghanistan. province. Earlier, the participated in the Wolesi Jirga “Our total budget for all Although 70 percent of the Independent Election elections, which showed 80 elections is estimated $146 voting centers in Ghazni province Commission (IEC) announced percent turnout in Bamyan,” he million,” said Nuristani. remain closed due to threats, the launching a 20-day voter added. Without giving information “We are purchasing biometric IEC offers a surprising figure of registration process for the Sept about the number of people Electoral observers have reacted Election Commission (IEC) over Alam Nuristani, the head of the devices and the transportation of those registered for voting in the 28 presidential election. registered as voters, he said the with surprise to the recent issues around the upcoming IEC, said that the commission biometric devices which is area. Afghanistan’s presidential The IEC says around 50,000 central office had set up some contradictory statements by presidential elections. had registered over 400,000 new included in the budget. The exact election is scheduled for people have so far registered as restrictions regarding the number members of the Independent In her latest statement, Hawa voters between June 8 and 15 amount is estimated up to $150 September 28. (TOLONews) voters within 10 days of the of voters. ongoing drive ahead of the Pajhwok reporter visited upcoming election. some voter registration centers Ismael Zaki, coordinator of and found that less than 10 civil society and human rights individuals visited these centers network in the central zone, said for registration on a daily basis. lack of access to registration He said he spent more than one centers, distrust on IEC’s hour in a center but saw no one commissioners and people’s arriving for registration. engagement in agriculture were Meanwhile, Ali Mohammad, factors behind the sluggish voter a resident of Panjab district, told registration process. Pajhwok that due to a fewer Calling people of Bamyan as number of voter registration KABUL: The Independent observation of the ongoing voter to observation of the recent agriculturalists, he said it would centers, rural people could not go Election Commission (IEC) on registration as important and said: Wolesi Jirga elections but said be difficult for them to abandon to certain centers for registration. Tuesday announced launching “We are committed to providing such mistakes should be avoided their work and life and go to In the Wolesi Jirga vote, he oversight process of the ongoing all facilities to observers in this in the upcoming presidential registration centers and pay a said facilities had been made by voter registration and said so far regard.” He said presidential election. Around one million huge fare. Criticizing the IEC for candidates in registration process no political party had started hopefuls and voters were observation cards would be not launching public awareness but no such measures had been observing the task. responsible to oversee the ongoing increased in the IEC database programs about voter taken for the presidential Earlier, the IEC has voter registration and share their system this time, said Nang. registration, he said denying elections. Marzia Rafiee, a civil announced a 20-day voter concerns and complaints with the He told Pajhwok Afghan someone information was against society activist, said residents registration process for the Sept IEC. Nang said those violating the News it was not yet known how the law and constitution. could not go outside their villages 28 presidential election. law would be dealt with sternly much observation cards would be Ali Shah Misbah, provincial and homes because it was summer Habib Rahman Nang, IEC and introduced to the Attorney distributed. IEC director for Bamyan, and they were busy in agricultural secretary, addressed a joint press General Office (AGO). Abdul Khabir Mohmand, however, rejected these claims activities. conference with representatives He further said all those IEC head for foreign relations, and said the voter registration But people would surely of political parties, civil society, individuals observing the voter told the press conference that process was going well. register as voters if mobile teams media, election watchdogs and registration process could get there were some challenges at the Regarding lukewarm went to rural areas, she added. presidential candidates. He said acredential letter from the recently held Wolesi Jirga polls so far no political party had commission. such as technical problems, weak would be issued online as well and observed the voter registration He acknowledged there had internet and database. the demanders could register their process. He termed the been some problems with regard He said observation cards documents in this regard. C-SAMF launched to connect people to people in the region

...P1 between China and South people exchange through media people exchange between China Asian countries media outlets. cooperation. and South Asia. President of The session was attended Media forum is aimed to Yunnan Media Group said that I E C a lloca tes $ 3 0 m for by officials and media make deeper media cooperation we need the power of economy representatives from China, between China and South Asia nad technology as well as the Afghanistan, , Bangladesh, countries, he added. power of cultural transmission. , Nepal and Seri Lanka, President of Cankaoxiaoxi, He said that China’s pu r ch a sin g biom etr ic devices who all discussed the China and Xinhua News Agency Wang cooperation with South Asia is a South Asia further media Chaowen said that culture and great treasure waiting to be cooperation toward histories between China and discovered china is ready to live connectivity of people to people South Asia countries has long in harmony with and contribute Head of the IECsecretariat said says that they are in in the region. story and media is a bridge to the development of South Asia. Speaking at the C-SAMF, between the mentioned countries He stated that Yunnan talks with different companies to purchase the devices. Vice Chairman of Yunnan and civilization and exchange province is strengthening Provincial Committee of the views. He said urged all to work exchanges and cooperation with The Independent Election Chinese People’s Political together to improve coverage of south Asian countries in all areas Commission (IEC) on Tuesday Consultative Conference said economic news in China and and in many fields in accordance announced the allocation of $30 that we amassed here to discuss South Asia in order to help the with President Xi Jinping’s call million for purchasing biometric future of media cooperation linkage between the China and for Yunnan to become China’s identification devices ahead of the between China and South Asia South Asia countries. We all radiation center for south and September presidential elections. countries in order to construct together must step up efforts to Southeast Asia. communication between people promote interaction and Yunnan and South Asian The head of the IEC and media play a key role. cooperation between Chinese countries are good neighbors that secretariate, Habib-Ur-Rahman He said that mass media is and South Asian media, he added. cannot be moved away and true Nang said the election growing rapidly and this forum He insisted that we must work partners that cannot be separated, commission has finalized $150 has strong aim to for people to together to enhance people-to- he underlined. million as the budget for the elections and that it has been shared with the Ministry of Finance. 62 insurgents killed in recent military raids Nang made the statement ....P1 here in Kabul, Ministry positions and sanctuaries by Kapisa, three militants were killed during a ceremony that marked of Defense, (MoD) said that artilleries and air forces. and five others wounded in the official launch of distribution Afghan National Army (ANA) During these operations in Balamorghab district of Badghis, of certificates and identity cards with the cooperation of Afghan the past 24 hours, 19 Taliban one rebel was killed and three to the election observers. National Police (ANP) and fighters were killed and five others wounded in Dawlatabad “Overall, the budget plan we National Directorate of Security others wounded in Baharak and district of Balkh and one militant sent to Ministry of Finance is (NDS), conducted joint Ishkamish of Takhar, 15 was killed in Andar district of estimated to $150 million,” said operations against insurgents in militants were killed, 13 Ghazni province. In past 24 Nang. “We are trying to reduce different area of Takhar, Ghor, wounded, six arrested and hours, 13 planed clearing this amount of money. We have Uruzgan, Helmand, Badghis, number of vehicle of the enemy operations, and 74 Special Forces held talks with those companies Kapisa, Ghazni, Balkh, with ammunitions destroyed in operations conducted in different preparing the devices.” Badakhshan, Sar-e-Pul, Paktika, Ahangaran, Shutorkhan and provinces; also, Air forces The IEC members called on Kandahar and Kunar provinces. Amrotak center of Ghor, 14 conducted 162 aerial operations the political parties and electoral The tatement said that in rebels were killed and four supporting Afghan National army observers to help in overseeing these operations 62 militants strongholds of the enemy including 21 strikes on enemy’s the process. had registered over 400,000 new voters during this period. Momand, member of the IEC. were killed and 32 others destroyed in Kotwal and Naichin sanctuaries. ANA discovered and In her latest statement, the voters between June 8 and 15 “Those willing to obtain Afghanistan’s presidential wounded. area of Urzgan, six militants were confiscated weapons and head of the IEC, Hawa Alam while the commission’s certificates should register election is scheduled for Afghan security forces killed and a strongholds ammunition in the operations as arrested six militants and handed destroyed in Sangeen and Nahr- well. ANA as the nation’s defense Nuristani, said the commission spokesman put the figure at 41,000 online,” said Abdul Khabir September 28. over them to judicial organs for e-Saraj district of Helmand forces are ready to give sacrifice further inquiry. province. to bring lasting peace and security Afghan National and Similar, three insurgents to the people and are determined Defense Security forces shelled were killed and three others to eradicate terror groups in DACAAR and bombed the enemies’ wounded in Nijrab district of Afghanistan. TENDER NOTICE Third polio case registered in three months in Uruzgan DACAAR ITB 28 PRF-458 to 468-505/1801-01/RID1.11/RID1.9/04.2019 (Heifer) ...P1 access to health facilities,” received the polio immunization. registered before, this (polio) is a DACAAR ITB 30 PRF-480 to 484 1706-50/DUH2.3/05.2019 (Chicken) he said. Also, head of the great threat to the Afghan Date: June 18, 2019 Meanwhile, provincial immunization department for the children,” he said. health care officials said the anti- southern provinces has In the past three months nine Sealed offers are invited from qualified vendors/companies for Supply & Distribution of Heifer for DACAAR Program polio vaccine was not launched expressed concerns over reports cases of polio have been registered in Kabul, Balkh and Nangarhar Provinces, and Supply & Distribution of Chicken for Herat and Kunduz Provinces. in Mehrab Abad village duet to of polio cases in the southern so far, thus three polio cases in security conditions, thus a parts of Afghanistan. “Seven Urozgan, two in Kandahar, three number of children have not cases of polio have been Helmand and one in Kunar. Please get the detailed tender documents from websites at www.dacaar.org/www.acbar.org/ www.acci.org.af or DACAAR Main Office in below mentioned address. The offers should reach to DACAAR till July 08, 2019 4:00 P.M. 30 drug traffickers sentenced to prison The bid opening session will be held on July 10, 2019 at 10:00 AM in DACAAR Main Office. Your participation in the ...P1 Police (CNP) has during operation in different CJTF courts has convicted the bid opening session is highly appreciated. seized 24 kilograms of heroin, provinces. accused traffickers, mentioned over 29 kilograms of morphine, Out of 27 drug traffickers, statement. 428 kilograms of hashish, 17 one smuggler, who planned to All the convicted drug DACAAR Address: kilograms of crystal and 823 smuggle drug through Hamid traffickers would have defense DACAAR Logistics Unit grams tablets of K from the Karzai international airport to attorneys for their legal defense aforementioned convicted drug (UAE) and will be convicted after DACAAR Main Office , House No. 403, Street No. 12, Paykobe Naswar, Qala-e-Fathullah, Kabul - Afghanistan. runners, mentioned statement. who were identified and arrested. separate judicial trials based on At the same period, CNP Statement said that after the evidence brought before the Email: [email protected] or [email protected] has arrested 27 suspected drug examining the evidences and court and the Counter Narcotics traffickers including two women arguments from both sides the law of Afghanistan. WEDNESDAY . JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

KANDAHAR CITY: The education department in southern Kandahar province says the number of girls graduating from 12th grade has increased. Final exams have just and summer vacation started in Kandahar, one of the militancy- hit provinces of the country. Nazar Mohammad Samimi, Central Bank governor says his office is not responsible for spokesman for the education department, told Pajhwok Afghan the crisis in Afghanistan Commercial Bank. News there had been a surge in the enrollment of girls. The Bank so that the bank will help us number of girls graduating from in this regard, but the Central Bank high schools has also gone up this [officials] did not cooperate year. He said about 60,000 because they have been involved children had been enrolled in in the ‘violations’,” said Andish. schools, including 15,000 girls, Another big problem in the this year. purchase of the bank, according to About 10,000 had been But officials say despite the after attaining maturity. underlined the need for quality -- TOLOnews findings, is that Mr. enrolled last year. problems, people realised the Samim said the education an atra where Kandahar was Andish, who claims he has bought According to Samimi, around value of education, something department was trying to raise lagging.. Women Affairs Director all shares of the ACB, got up to 55 700 girls graduated from high that has contributed to the awareness among the people Ruqia Achakzai hailed the increase percent of the shares even until the school last year but the number improvement this vital sector. about the importance if in the number of female graduates last days of the bank’s operation. surged to 13,000 in 2018 -- a 40 Earlier, the education department education, particularly for girls. as good news. However, she urged However, the Central Bank percent increase. told Pajhwok about 13,000 girls Samina, who recently graduated greater efforts to promote girls’ officials said that the transfer of “At least 5,500 students were enrolled in schools annually from the Zarghona Ana High education. the shares from the former graduated from 12th grade -- but many of them dropped out School, told Pajhwok concerted She added there were 19 shareholders of Afghanistan 13,000 of them girls,” he for different reasins. efforts were needed to increase schools and two seminaries for Commercial Bank to its new explained. Insecurity, lack of Officials link most of the the number of girl students. girls, with 15 principals and 750 shareholder “was not shared with female teachers, school buildings problems to ancient traditions. She expressed happiness teachers. Kandahar has around them”. This means that the and other issues affect the Many families prevent their over completing her school 340,000 students, including An investigation by TOLOnews admitted that providing a license remained assets will be divided education of girls. daughters from attending school education despite problems. She 80,000 girls. shows that Afghanistan to Afghanistan Commercial bank, between Mr. Andish and former Commercial Bank, commonly without assessing the required shareholders of the bank once the known as ACB, went bankrupt capital of the investors, was a case is cleared. last year, being the third “mistake”. “It is the right of the bankrupted private bank in the “We saw that they could not shareholders to have a share in the country after Kabul Bank and do it. We decided based on the money which is left after clearance Afghanistan Development Bank. law but I want to tell you that if in the bank,” Sediq said. The Central Bank I were the governor of the bank Article 21 of Afghanistan’s information shows that the [at the time], I would not have banking law says that no person problem in the ACB goes back to given a license to the bank,” Sediq may, without the prior written 2012 when the bank was said. authorization of Da Afghanistan operating under the name of “Afghanistan’s laws are Bank, acquire a qualifying holding, BRAC Bank, providing small allowing all investors to invest 20% participation, 30% loans to its customers. in banking, therefore, the investor participation, or control of a bank. The BRAC Bank was was from Bangladesh who Legal persons having qualifying founded by a Bangladeshi investor founded the BRAC Bank in holdings in banks must be financial in 2006. The ACB owner, Jawed Afghanistan but after a while, he institutions. Andish, said he bought all shares decided to sell his shares. The Meanwhile, Hudwal said the of the bank in 2015 for $22 bank has not been sold, its shares Central Bank cannot be unaware million. But he claims that a have been sold. There is a of a deal on shares of Afghanistan bankrupted bank was handed to contrast between these two,” Commercial Bank. him through a compromise said Khan Afzal Hudwal, former “The Central Bank has been between former shareholders of deputy governor of the Central aware of all these,” he reiterated. the ACB and some members of Bank. He said that based on the the state-owned Central Bank, Another reason that resulted banking law, there are 15 stages for also known as the Da Afghanistan in the bankruptcy of Afghanistan saving a bank from bankruptcy. Bank. Three investors, including Commercial Bank is a number of “The banking law says this, Jawed Andish, Zabihullah Ziarmal violations by the bank, the not me. When a bank faces a and Tariq Emadi had decided to Central Bank officials said. problem, The first stage is the submit their proposals to the The officials said that some preparation of a balance sheet for Central Bank in 2015 to buy the of the violations in Afghanistan the bank to know about its assets. shares of Afghanistan Commercial Commercial Bank include a $2 It means that this bank can be Bank, according to Andish. million loan provided by the bank revived and if the assets are less, However, after submitting by taking a public school in then the government takes other their proposals to the Central Kabul as a guarantee, providing measures,” Hudwal said. Bank, Emadi’s proposal was big loans with the help of the Critics say that the conflicting rejected but Zabihullah Ziarmal shareholders and the sudden remarks by the Central Bank withdrew from the tender due to disappearance of at least officials are aimed at keeping their unknown reasons and finally, $700,000 from the Mazar branch “fault” secret when it comes to Andish had no option but to buy of the bank. issues around the bankruptcy of the shares. Andish says that at However, the defense lawyer the ACB. that time, he was informed that of the former shareholders of the “The Central Bank is trying the bank has Afs1.25 billion plus ACB, Shafiqullah Saighani said to keep its mistakes under the A 3D light projection last month in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, of how a destroyed an additional $11 million on its that the bank faced problem after table,” said Ahmad Shah Reka, assets but later he found that the it was sold out to Mr. Andish. former head of Afghanistan Buddha, known as Solsol to locals, might have looked in its prime. Central Bank had given him He said that Mr. Andish Commercial Bank. “wrong information” about the owes $12 million from the The Deputy Head of BAMIYAN: Here is a reminder the time were thought to be the to locals, might have looked like pieces of painted stucco BRAC Bank in collaboration with purchase of the shares of the Afghanistan Chamber of to someone with the initials A.B., two biggest standing Buddhas on in his prime. decorations from the network of its former shareholders. bank from the former Commerce and Industries, Khan who on March 8 climbed inside the planet. It took the Taliban The image was beamed into chambers or take away chunks of “There is a building inside the shareholders. Jan Alokozai, said the problems in the cliff out of which Bamiyan’s weeks, using artillery and the niche one night in 2015; later fallen sandstone. Graffiti Afghanistan Commercial Bank’s “This is not the Central the ACB are connected with two giant Buddhas were carved explosive charges, to reduce the the couple donated their signatures, slogans, even compound which does not worth Bank’s fault. This is not the inattention by the Central Bank. 1,500 years ago. Buddhas to thousands of $120,000 projector to the solicitations for sex abound. more than $200,000, but the price Central Bank’s authority to do “Violations should be In a domed chamber — fragments piled in heaps at the culture ministry. Anyone can, as A.B. did, crawl of the building was estimated assessments for someone who prevented when they happen in a reached after a trek through a foot of the cliffs, outraging the The local authorities bring through the passageways Afs234 million [$2.9 million] in wants to buy a bank. We are not bank. It is ‘frustrating’ when the passageway that worms its way world. Since then, the degradation it out on special occasions, but surrounding the towering niches the overall capital of the bank. It the analyzer of the banks, we are license of a bank is canceled,” up the inside of the cliff face — has continued, as Afghanistan rarely, as Bamiyan has no city in the cliff, through winding is in contravention of the law. the controller of the banks,” the Alokozai said. A.B. inscribed initials and the and the international community power supply, other than fields staircases tunneled into the They violated the law before I Central Bank governor said. A banking expert, meanwhile, date, as hundreds of others had have spent 18 years debating of low-capacity solar panels. sandstone and up steps with opted to purchase the bank,” TOLOnews findings show said the Central Bank has not paid in many scripts, then added a what to do to protect or restore The 3D-image projector is risers double the height of modern Andish said. that the Central Bank has made the required attention to save little heart. the site, with still no final power-hungry and needs its ones, as if built for giants. The Central Bank governor conflicting reports from its Afghanistan Commercial Bank It’s just one of the latest decision and often only one guard own diesel generator. At the end of this journey, you Khalil Sediq said the BRAC Bank assessments on Afghanistan from bankruptcy. “The Central contributions to the destruction on duty. Most of the time, the arrive above the eastern niche, shareholder made an unclear Commercial Bank since it was Bank is responsible to monitor a of the World Heritage Site of One recent idea came from a remains of the monument are so which housed the smaller Buddha, decision to abandon their handed to the new shareholder. bank when it wants to start Bamiyan’s famous Buddhas. wealthy Chinese couple, Janson poorly guarded that anyone can and stand on a ledge just behind activities. A document of the Central operation and then it should make The worst was the Taliban’s Hu and Liyan Yu. They financed buy a ticket ($4 for foreigners, where the statue’s head once was, The TOLOnews findings Bank’s assessment shows that clear how much capital does it effort in March 2001, when the the creation of a Statue of 60 cents for Afghans), walk in taking in the splendid Buddha’s show that the shares of the BRAC the ACB has been ranked at have,” said Abdulwase Haidari, an group blasted away at the two Liberty-size 3D light projection and do pretty much whatever eye view of snow-capped Bank were bought by two Afghan “grade three” which show it is in expert. “I think the problem [in giant statues, one 181 feet and of an artist’s view of what the he wants. And many do. mountains and the lush green nationals, Aryan Azimi and Salim good condition, while in other Afghanistan Commercial Bank] is the other 125 feet tall, which at larger Buddha, known as Solsol Souvenir-hunters pluck valley far below .(nytimes) Azimi, for $3 million and they assessment, the bank was ranked the outcome of four matters: lack immediately got a license for it, at “fourth grade” which shows it of good banking, lack of good with a new name: Afghanistan is in a critical condition. monitoring and lack of attention,” Commercial Bank. “I shard the information said Mohib Sharifi, a banking The Central Bank governor [about the loans] with the Central expert. (TOLONews)

'I am trying to find a good market for wheat production of Helmand farmers and other provinces,' he said. Helmand would be once again self-reliant on crops and it would also export its agricultural products to other provinces this year, he said. Tor Jan, a farmer from Nawa district, told Pajhwok that his Agriculture info-iconofficials say News that farmers in the province wheat crop yielded better result 95,000 hectares of land has been focused more on cultivating this season compared to the past. cultivated with wheat crop in wheat crop this year. 'Our crops are very good, but southern Helmand province this He said over 95,000 hectares we don't have good market for year, showing a 25 percent of land in the province was selling wheat,' he said. increase in wheat farms compared planted with wheat in Helmand He said government officials last year. this year which showed a 25 always promised to find market Helmand agriculture director percent increase in wheat for their products but they did Zalmai Alko told Pajhwok Afghan cultivation over last year. nothing in practice. WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES An gr y r elatives pr otest a ga in st B ih a r CM N itish K u m a r ou tside M u za ffa r pu r h ospital a s en ceph a litis toll r ises On Tuesday morning, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar rushed to the SKMCH hospital in Muzaffarpur, where more than 300 children have been admitted with complaints of AES since June 1. Close to 90 of them have died. Public grief gave way to outrage here Tuesday when angry peo- ple raised slogans as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held a meeting with officials to take stock of the Acute Encephalitis Syndrome outbreak, which has claimed the lives of over 100 chil- dren. The death toll has climbed NAB had no to 105 with both the SKMCH hospital and the privately owned Kejriwal hospital reporting one ulterior motive in casualty during the night, the dis- trict administration said. Kumar, who had been away in New Del- Zardari arrest: IHC hi since Saturday, returned to the The Islamabad High Court rants of arrests even after the ref- state capital Monday evening and (IHC), in its detailed judgement erence is filed,” reads the report. held an emergency review meet- of PPP co-chairperson’s bail plea The court maintained that the ing on the AES situation with of- dismissal, stated no ulterior mo- Supreme Court (SC) fixed a stan- ficials. After the meeting the gov- tive can be attributed to the Na- dard for bail in NAB cases in the ernment swung into action, de- tional Accountability Bureau Avenfield reference. SC’s decision claring it would bear the expense (NAB) for the arrest. Justice also applies to the pre-arrest bail for treatment of those found with Amir Farooq and Justice Mohsin case, it added. Former president the syndrome even if it took place Akhtar Kiyani announced the Asif Ali Zardari was arrested by at private hospitals. Instructions IHC decision stating that inter- NAB last week after IHC recalled were also issued for equipping im bail can be granted if the ar- the pre-arrest bail granted to him primary health centres with nec- rest made is based on ill-inten- and his sister Faryal Talpur in the essary facilities so that children tion. However, in its written or- fake accounts case. The cases with symptoms of AES in remote der, IHC said NAB’s arrest of against Zardari are part of the in- areas could be provided with Zardari was based on the need vestigations being conducted by medical attention closer home for further investigation of the NAB in pursuance of the Su- since, in several cases, the time accused and as such, there is no preme Court’s verdict in the mon- involved in travelling to the dis- ulterior motive involved in his ey laundering of billions through since June 1. Close to 90 of them ities and other health department Speaking to journalists, they could have been saved,” one of arrest. The judgement also states fake accounts case wherein it was trict headquarters and seeking have died. The chief minister, who officials. In the meantime, hordes pointed out to a water tanker. them said. admission to hospitals had led to that arguments on behalf of the forwarded a joint investigation was flanked by his deputy Sushil of people gathered outside the “This is today’s development. A team of Union health depart- petitioners that chairman NAB team (JIT) report. Other suspects worsening of the condition of Kumar Modi and cabinet colleague hospital and started shouting slo- Things are being spruced up so ment officials visited the district patients. On Tuesday morning, does not have authority or juris- in the investigation include Omni and local MLA Suresh Sharma, gans like “Nitish Kumar go back”, that it makes a favourable impres- over the weekend and clarified diction in the matter are “with- Group’s Anwar Majeed and his Kumar rushed to the SKMCH went to the ICU inside the hospi- angry over the chief minister sion on the chief minister. Had the that AES was an umbrella of hospital in Muzaffarpur, where out substance”. Zardari arrested son Abdul Ghani Majeed, former tal to take stock of the situation choosing to visit the city only CM visited earlier, it would have symptoms, unlike Japanese En- in fake accounts case Pakistan Stock Exchange chair- more than 300 children have been before holding an impromptu re- after the number of casualties had made the concerned people pull cephalitis which was a viral in- admitted with complaints of AES “Under section 24 (a) read with person Hussain Lawai and Sum- view meeting with hospital author- crossed the three-digit mark. up their socks and many lives fection. section 24 (c) of the Ordinance, mit Bank Senior Vice-President Chairman NAB can issue war- Taha Raza. Ninekilledin jeepaccident BannedfromBangladeshschools,Rohingya First rescue operation Nine persons died on the spot of Sri LankaNavy'sSLNS and six others were seriously in- childrenareexposedtoextremisminmadrasas jured when a jeep bound for Ba- jhang’s Masta Rural Municipali- Half a million refugee Rohingya Gajabahubringsill fisherman ty from district headquarters children are shut out of local Chainpur met with an accident in schools in Bangladesh, leaving Dumri of Masta Rural Munici- many in religious madrasas where ashorefor treatment pality, today. The deceased have critics say educational standards The first mission of recently vessel about 109 nautical miles been identified as jeep driver are low and students are vulnera- commissioned Sri Lanka Navy off the Galle Lighthouse. The pa- Surendra Thapa and passengers ble to indoctrination. About SLNS Gajabahu was to bring an tient was administered first aid Nayan Khadka, Dhauli Khadka, 740,000 Muslim Rohingya fled ill fisherman ashore for treatment aboard the ship which even of- Juna Khadka, Bhakta Duwal, into the country during a 2017 Laxmi Duwal, and Kalak Baha- on Monday. Upon receiving in- fers medical facilities and trans- crackdown by Myanmar’s mili- formation disseminated by the ferred to a Fast Attack Craft to dur Khadka and his son Jundhara tary, swelling the numbers of the of Masta Rural Municipality. Department of Fisheries and rush him to the Galle harbor. The minority in Bangladesh to about 1 Aquatic Resources about an ill patient was then rushed to the One person who died is yet to be million. But while their language identified, police said. Sub-in- fisherman in deep seas, SLNS Teaching Hospital-Karapitiya for spector Mahananda Joshi of and culture are similar to people Gajabahu was sent out to retrieve further treatment. Chainpur Ward Police Office said in southeastern Bangladesh, au- the patient who had left for fish- The Navy said it is the very first the accident might have occurred thorities regard the Rohingya as ing aboard a multiday fishing ves- rescue operation undertaken by when the overloaded jeep went temporary guests and their chil- sel 'Shan Putha 04' from the Beru- the former U.S. Coast Guard cut- out of control and skidded off the dren are denied access to local wela fisheries harbor on 09th ter after joining the Sri Lanka road on a downhill stretch. The schools, raising fears of a “lost June2019. The ill fisherman was Navy fleet on June 6th. jeep is said to be stuck on a cliff. generation”. Many Rohingya chil- safely taken aboard the naval (APF) “Six of the injured were rescued dren had managed to slip through by security personnel with the the net until earlier this year when help of locals. Rain and wind have Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s made rescue difficult,” said the government cracked down, order- SI. “As we don’t know for sure ing schools to expel them. Government hell-bent on how many were on board the Lucky Akter, 15, lost her spot at el. To fill the gap, Rohingya madrasa, which has taken in at least hideouts But critics warn that the jeep, we don’t know if there are Hnila village school, where almost groups and Bangladeshi Islamists 15 Rohingya students. Thirteen- madrasas are not a good educa- other people awaiting rescue,” a third of her class were from ref- have set up more than 1,000 ma- year-old Hares, who was expelled tional alternative. The Interna- creatingconflict:Thapa said SI Joshi, adding that securi- drasas – religious schools that from a school in the Bangladesh tional Crisis Group said in a re- ty personnel had searched the ugee camps. She now has nothing accident site till the evening in case to do but help her mother with provide everything from basic town of Teknaf, now goes to a cent report that there was no there were more people to be res- chores. Rights groups have criti- Koran-based education to gradu- madrasa in the Leda refugee camp. evidence madrasas are promot- cued. Personnel of Nepal Police, cised the government’s policy, and ate-level religious studies. “It’s better for him to get busy ing violence, intolerance or in- Armed Police Force and Nepali charities and the UN children’s “We don’t differentiate people with studying, otherwise he will doctrination by extremists. Army had reached the site from agency Unicef have set up some by their nationality as long as loiter around in the camp and get “However, a policy of denying Chainpur to carry out rescue. Ac- 1,800 makeshift facilities in the they have a strong urge to be ed- spoilt,” his father, Mohammad young people formal education cording to Bajhang Chief District camps, schooling around 180,000 ucated and serve Allah’s path,” Khaleque, said. and leaving them reliant on un- Officer Suresh Sunar. children – but only to primary lev- said the head teacher of one local plots world terror from mountain regulated madrasas. ‘Oppositionparties Kamal Nath meets Amit Shah to discuss issues of state havenoagenda’ The agenda of the meeting was not immediately known, but an official close to Nath claimed it was to discuss issues related to Madhya Pradesh. Speaking at a press meet organ- Council Bill, Bill on Human Madhya Pradesh chief minister time associate RK Miglani in one Nidhi Yojna, and implementation ised in Hetauda, Thapa charged Rights, National Security Bill and Kamal Nath held a closed-door case; and his nephew Ratul Puri of 10% reservation in govern- that the government had tabled Guthi Bill in the House. meeting with Union home minis- in another. ment jobs and admissions in ed- superfluous bills in the Parlia- He held that the communist gov- ter Amit Shah on Sunday evening The agenda of the meeting was not ucational institutions for people ment to create chaos and conflict ernment had tried to prove its anti- — the first between a Congress immediately known, but an offi- from economically weaker sec- in the country. He said the bills religious character by tabling the CM and Shah after he assumed cial close to Nath claimed it was tions. In a letter earlier this tabled in the House against peo- Guthi Bill in the Parliament. charge in North Block — accord- to discuss issues related to month, Nath sought financial ple’s aspirations were not accept- “Communists call religion opium. ing to officials familiar with the Madhya Pradesh. The CM also support from the Centre for a able to his party. “The govern- They are trying to prove it right,” matter. The meeting, which last- met Prime Minister Narendra dedicated set-up to tackle crimes ment is hell-bent on inviting po- he stated. He demanded immedi- ed for about an hour, comes at a Modi earlier this month. Soon af- against women and children that litical conflict,” he added. Thapa ate withdrawal of the Guthi Bill. time when central agencies are in- ter that meeting, Madhya Pradesh would include investigating of- alleged that the government had A version of this article appears vestigating some of Nath’s aides: expedited two key central govern- ficers, legal advisors, prosecu- tried to create ideological polari- in print on June 18, 2019 of The his officer on special duty ment schemes in the state: the tors, and DNA laboratories. sation by tabling the Media Himalayan Times. (AP) Praveen Kakkar, and his long- Prime Minister Kisan Samman (hindustan times) P M i n st r u c t s n o t t o r u sh t o a n n o u n c e Punjab Chief Minister Sardar said. He expressed that the gov- Usman Buzdar said that opposi- ernment is working with full com- a U N P P r e si d e n t i a l c a n d i d a t e tion parties have no agenda and mitment and passion to save the they are trying to hoodwink the country from difficult circum- Prime Minster and United Na- "The advice given by the Prime have already commenced the ship- people through criticism for the stances. The Pakistan Tehreek-e- tional Party (UNP) leader has Minister is that this is not a time ment of an order at the time of sake of criticism. He expressed Insaaf (PTI) government is fully advised the UNP parliamentary to look for a presidential candi- writing,” he said. these views in a statement issued focused on providing necessary group not to be hasty to an- date. It is the time to fulfill the Royal Ceramics exports to 13 on Monday. He said that the op- facilities to the people and unprec- nounce a name of the Presiden- promises made on the 8th Janu- markets, including North Ameri- position should realise that the edented steps have been taken for tial candidate from the party ary 2015. ca, Europe, India and Australia. people cannot be fooled through citizen’s welfare. since the presidential election Some setback happened because The group has 15 factory outlets, lies. He maintained that corrup- He said that the past govern- has not been announced yet. The of the Easter bombing attack. up from 10 in the last financial tion was at its peak during the ments ignored the problems of the Prime Minister has given these Now work on completing the year and the capital expenditure tenure of the previous rulers and people and added that they are instructions at a UNP Parliamen- goals. After that we can talk about for FY19 stood at Rs.4 billion, national resources were wasted responsible for the deteriorating tary Group meeting held at Tem- a presidential candidate," the Pre- up from Rs.3.6 billion a year ago. mercilessly on wrong projects. economic conditions. The prime ple Trees Monday night. Fol- mier was quoted by the Minis- The earnings of Royal Ceramics Previous rulers prioritised minister and his team have taken lowing the discussion, State ter. in FY19 fell 9 percent to Rs.2.6 their personal interests instead of solid steps to improve the econo- Minister Ajith Mannapperuma Having completed the lengthy billion, on a revenue of Rs.31.5 national interest. Those who en- my. The journey of public service told the media that the Premier process, we are now looking to billion, up 8 percent from a year joyed at the expense of the pub- will not halt and will continue, the pointed out that this is not a time reap the benefits of this in the ago. lic’s money cannot be leaders, he chief minister concluded. to find a presidential candidate. year that has commenced and (LBO) WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES News-in-Brief Japan must lift 17 dead after unilateral sanctions motorboat on N. Korea if it wants sinks in bad summit: Choson Sinbo weather in Chongryon organ slams Prime Minister Abe Indonesia for "calling for dialogue without action" At least 17 people, including The Japanese government must Yong. The “hostile” Japanese pol- four children, died after a mo- lift its “hostile” unilateral sanc- icy against the DPRK has not torboat sank in choppy waters tions on North Korea if the two changed, the Choson Sinbo argued, off the Indonesian island of Java, countries are to hold a summit, citing Tokyo’s decision to extend Reuters has quoted government a Tokyo-based pro-Pyongyang its sanctions against the North by official as saying on Tuesday. organ said on Tuesday. A com- two years in April as one exam- The 10-metre (33 ft) wooden mentary carried by the Choson ple. The pro-Pyongyang organ vessel with 57 people on board Sinbo — an organ of the Gener- also denounced the Japanese gov- was hit by high waves off Sume- al Association of Korean Resi- ernment for recent comments that nep in East Java province on dents in Japan (Chongryon) — Chongryon remains subject to the Monday, said Tholib, a spokes- urged Japan to take the mea- Subversive Activities Prevention man for the search and rescue sures in response to Prime Min- Act, which stipulates necessary agency. "Rescue teams saved 39 ister Shinzo Abe’s recent stated control measures for organizations passengers and are searching for one missing person," he added. desire to meet North Korean linked to terroristic and subver- (AP) leader Kim Jong Un “without sive activities. In response to a conditions.” In an interview question from Lower House mem- with the Sankei Shimbun in ber Jin Matsubara, the Japanese Egyptian ministers’ May, Abe said he wanted to government said in May that it statements on “talk with him frankly with an “can’t deny the possibility that public budget raise open mind.” But the Choson the association will conduct de- Sinbo on Tuesday said “ac- structive activities depending on controversy tions” would be necessary if future circumstances” in a state- Two Egyptian ministers have Tokyo wants to prove the sin- ment carried by the Japan Times. made criticizing statements about cerity of the prime minister’s “It is also necessary [for Tokyo] the government allocating insuf- remarks. “The unilateral sanc- to express the will to settle histo- ficient funds to the country’s tions, which are an intensive ry and take action to ensure the education and health sectors last expression of a hostile policy rights and interests of Chongryon month, raising controversy, trig- against the DPRK, should be lift- and Korean residents in Japan, gering talk about an imminent ed,” the newspaper said in a which is one of the most impor- Cabinet reshuffle and pushing commentary written by Kim Ji tant tasks.” newspapers not to publish any further statements by a number of ministers. On May 12, Min- ister of Education Tarek Shawki Russia on Tuesday called for re- approved the deployment of 1,000 voke war,” Ryabkov told jour- of its presence and from other was attending a parliamentary straint to avoid escalation in the additional troops to the Middle nalists, quoted by RIA Novosti steps, including dragging and HongKonganti-extradition Planning and Budget Committee Middle East after the US said it East. Acting Defense Secretary news agency. He said that US Sec- pushing its allies in various parts meeting when he criticized the was deploying additional troops Patrick Shanahan said the troops retary of State Mike Pompeo of the world into stepping up Ministry of Finance’s non-coop- due to heightened tensions with were being sent “for defensive pur- while visiting Russia last month pressure on Iran,” Ryabkov said. Bill protestersrepeat calls eration with the Ministry. Iran. “We are urging all the sides poses” as the US has blamed Iran had stated that US troops were Tensions between Tehran and to show restraint,” President for last week’s attacks on two tank- in the region not to start war but Washington have escalated since Vladimir Putin’s spokesman ers in the Gulf of Oman. Russian to prevent it. Pompeo said at a the US last year quit a multi-na- for CarrieLam'sresignation India sacks15 Dmitry Peskov told journalists Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei news conference with Russian tion nuclear deal with Iran, a close senior tax in response to a question on the Ryabkov said on Tuesday that US foreign minister Sergei Lavrov in ally of Russia. Peskov said Tues- The organisers of a massive pro- peating the demands which they deployment. “We would prefer plans to increase its troop pres- the Black Sea resort of Sochi on day that “our starting point is test that drew two million onto said Mrs Lam had yet to respond officials over not to see any steps that could ence in the Middle East were aimed May 14 that “we fundamentally still that Iran will remain within Hong Kong streets last week- to. The group rejected Mrs Lam's introduce additional tensions in at provoking armed conflict. Such do not seek a war with Iran.” “If the framework of the nuclear deal end repeated calls on Tuesday apology and said she was simply corruption the already unstable region.” The actions “cannot be seen otherwise that’s the case, the US should re- and will maintain adherence to its (June 18) for Chief Executive talking about her own problems United States said Monday it has than as a deliberate course to pro- frain from further reinforcement obligations.” Carrie Lam to step down for her without answering any questions, India on Tuesday sacked 15 se- nior tax officials facing probes in mishandling of a divisive extra- or meeting any of their demands. corruption cases, sending across dition Bill. In a press conference Calling Mrs Lam "incompetent", a tough message to bureaucrats Deadly earthquake on Tuesday, Mrs Lam offered convenor of the CHRF Jimmy taking kickbacks for facilitating T r u m p to depor t m illion s her "most sincere apology" to Sham said Mrs Lam did not listen tax evasion by companies, a gov- hits China's Sichuan Hong Kong, saying she realised to the problems of Hong Kongers. ernment statement said. Last she "needs to do more". But it "We need a Chief Executive who week, the government had dis- province was not enough for the Civil responds to the problems of Hong missed 12 income tax officials of illega l m igr a n ts fr om U S Human Rights Front (CHRF). Kongers, we don't need a Chief who were mainly facing corrup- At least 12 people have been About an hour after Mrs Lam's Executive who talks about her own tion charges. India improved its President Donald Trump is tion orders by federal judges but which has risen dramatically on press conference ended, mem- problems," he told journalists out- ranking, among 180 countries, by killed and more than 100 injured threatening to remove millions of remain at large in the country. his watch. in a strong earthquake which bers of CHRF held up signs re- side the Legislative Council. three points to 78th on a global people living in the country ille- The official spoke on condition of He recently dropped a threat to corruption index in 2018, accord- shook the south-western Chi- gally on the eve of formally an- anonymity to explain the presi- slap tariffs on Mexico after the nese province of Sichuan. The 6.0 ing to the annual index of the nouncing his re-election bid. In a dent's tweets. It is unusual for law country agreed to dispatch its Transparency International, an magnitude earthquake struck near anti-graft watchdog. pair of tweets Monday night, enforcement agencies to announce national guard and step-up coor- Yibin in Changning County, 'sformer president Trump said that US Immigration raids before they take place. Some dination and enforcement efforts. south-east of the provincial cap- and Customs Enforcement in Trump's administration believe A senior Mexican official said ital Chengdu, late on Monday, Czech opposition would next week "begin the pro- that decisive shows of force — like Monday that three weeks ago, officials said. It was followed by MorsiquietlyburiedinCairo parties to challenge cess of removing the millions of mass arrests — can serve as effec- about 4,200 migrants were arriv- several powerful aftershocks. Egypt's first democratically office said the 67-year-old leader illegal aliens who have illicitly tive deterrents, sending a message ing at the US border daily. That TV footage showed rescuers pull- elected president Mohamed had collapsed and "died as he at- PM Babis in found their way into the US". to those considering making the number has now dropped to ing injured people from the rub- Morsi was buried Tuesday as tended a hearing" in a retrial hear- no-confidence vote "They will be removed as fast as journey to the US that it's not worth about 2,600. Immigration was a ble of collapsed buildings. calls mounted for an indepen- ing Monday over alleged collabo- they come in," he wrote. An ad- coming. Trump has threatened a central theme of Trump's 2016 More than 4,000 people have had dent investigation into the caus- ration with foreign powers and ministration official said the ef- series of increasingly drastic ac- campaign and he is expected to to be relocated because their homes were destroyed or dam- es of his death after he collapsed militant groups. Abdel Maksoud Opposition parties said they will fort would focus on the more tions as he has tried to stem the hammer it as he tries to fire up in a Cairo courtroom. The Is- told AFP only around 10 family call a vote of no-confidence in than one million people who flow of Central American migrants his base heading into the 2020 aged, state media reported. Chi- na Central Television showed the lamist leader, who was over- members and close Morsi confi- Czech Prime Minister Andrej have been issued final deporta- crossing the southern border, campaign. thrown in 2013 after a year of dants were present, including him- Babis’s government over alleged aftermath of a landslide that had conflicts of interest, although blocked a road and left a lorry divisive rule and later charged self. An AFP reporter saw a hand- they lack enough votes to win. engulfed in debris. Several major with espionage, was buried at a ful of mourners entering the cem- The five parties will submit their M or e th an 3 0 0 ,0 0 0 flee Con go roads were damaged including the cemetery in eastern Cairo's etery complex, accompanied by request on Friday for a special highway between Yibin city and Medinat Nasr, one of his law- police officers, but journalists session of parliament, party lead- Xuyong county, the official Xin- yers said. Abdel Moneim Abdel were prevented from entering the ers said at a news conference on violen ce in two weeks: U N H CR hua news agency reported. In Maksoud said family members site. The graveyard is in the same Tuesday. “This government, with Chengdu, about 300km (186 had washed Morsi's body and suburb as the largest massacre in this prime minister, has been tar- More than 300,000 people have At least 161 people have been killed lence at “this massive scale”, miles) away, an early warning prayed the last rites early Tues- Egypt's modern history, the Au- nishing Czech Republic’s repu- fled inter-ethnic violence in north- in a northeastern province of Dem- fears are that more people will system triggered a siren that day morning at the Leeman Tora gust 2013 crackdown on an Islam- tation both home and abroad, eastern Democratic Republic of ocratic Republic of Congo in the try to seek safety in Uganda, sounded across the city about a Hospital. That lies near the pris- ist sit-in at Rabaa Square, weeks therefore we deem this step a Congo since early June, the Unit- past week, local officials said on crossing Lake Albert, minute before the earthquake on where Egypt's first civilian after Morsi's ouster by the mili- moral and political gesture.” ed Nations refugee agency said Monday, in an apparent resurgence UNHCR spokesman Babar struck, Xinhua said. Shaking was president, a prominent Muslim tary. Over 800 people were killed on Tuesday, reporting on peo- of ethnic clashes between farming Baloch told a news briefing in felt in Chengdu and also in the Brotherhood member, had been in a single day as security forces US releases new ple on the move in the Ebola-hit and herding communities. Geneva. city of Chongqing, to the east of held for six years in solitary con- moved against protesters calling province of Ituri. As Congolese continue to flee vio- (Reuters) Yibin. More than 500 firefight- finement and deteriorating for Morsi's reinstatement. images from ers have been deployed. health. The prosecutor general's (AP) suspected attacks on Gulf tankers Toryleadership U S , T u r k ey r em a in The US military has released new candidate: I images it said showed Iran's Is- in d ia logu e over Kuwait emir tovisit Iraq lamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) removing an un- wasdefinitely exploded mine from a Japanese- S -4 0 0 d isp u t e: T op owned tanker following suspect- never aspy amidGulf tensions-KUNA ed attacks on two vessels in the Gulf of Oman on June 13. The Tory leadership contender Rory N AT O gen er a l Kuwait’s ruler will visit Iraq on bah al-Ahmad al-Sabah’s visit near the strategic Strait of Hor- images, released on Monday, also Stewart said he had not worked Wednesday, state news agency will discuss bi-lateral relations muz shipping lane, which Wash- showed a hole on the side of the as a spy, but added that if he had, U.S. Acting Defense Secretary decision to cancel 's pur- KUNA reported, saying the trip and “comes amid unprecedent- ington has blamed on Tehran. Japanese-owned Kokuka Coura- it would be illegal for him to say Patrick Shanahan and his Turkish chase of F-35 stealth fighters if it comes amid unprecedented re- ed tensions and developments Iran has denied involvement in the geous that officials say appeared so. The candidate, who started counterpart Hulusi Akar remain in proceeds with its purchase of the gional tensions after attacks on witnessed by the region”, the attacks. to have been caused by another as an outside bet to be the U.K.'s contact about Ankara's plans to Russian S-400 air defense sys- tankers in the Gulf. Sheikh Sa- agency said, referring to attacks (AP) mine. The new photos follow the next prime minister, appears to buy a Russian air defense system, tem. "I know there'll be follow earlier release last Thursday of a be gathering momentum in the and may meet during NATO meet- on dialogue to work on ... details race. The idea that he was recruit- grainy video, which the US said ings in Brussels next week, between Minister Akar and Sec- showed the IRGC removing a ed into MI6 after his time at Ox- XITODISCUSSDENUCLEARISATIONWITHKIMDURING ford University — a claim that NATO's commander told Reuters. retary Shanahan. As a matter of suspected limpet mine from the U.S. General Tod Wolters said the fact there may the opportunity Kokuka Courageous. Washing- first surfaced a decade ago — has added a degree of intrigue and military-to-military relationship to meet next week at the ministe- VISIT TO NORTH KOREA: CHINESE OFFICIAL ton blames Tehran for the report- between the United States and rials in NATO," Wolters said at ed attacks in which two vessels James Bond mystique to an al- Chinese President Xi Jinping will ready off-beat candidacy for the NATO remained "absolutely, pos- the Paris Airshow. near the strategically important itively solid," despite Washington's (BBC) meet with North Korean leader Strait of Hormuz. top job. Stewart's CV includes a Kim Jong Un during his upcom- stint in the U.K.'s diplomatic ing state visit to Pyongyang to Philippines spokesman service during which he was a discuss the bilateral relations as talks invoking US coalition official in southern Iraq well as the situation on the Ko- shortly after the 2003 invasion. Zelensky says what rean peninsula. "During the vis- defense treaty as Before that, he wrote a bestsell- it, Chairman of the People's Re- Duterte downplays ing travelogue after walking he would tell Putin public of China Xi Jinping will across Afghanistan in 2002. He hold talks with North Korean sinking of fishing boat also worked briefly as a private When interviewed by the German Zelensky on his being elected leader Kim Jong Un. The two The Philippines may invoke its tutor to Princes William and Har- newspaper Bild, Ukrainian presi- president of Ukraine; it also failed leaders will review the bilateral mutual defense treaty with the ry. His father was a diplomat dent Volodymyr Zelensky was to extend greetings on the occa- relationship over the past 70 United States if it finds the sink- who served with the Secret In- asked what he would tell Vladimir sion of his getting into office. years, exchange opinions on the ing of a Philippine fishing boat telligence Service, the U.K.'s Putin when he met him for the first “President Putin will congratu- bilateral ties in the new era and this month was the result of an foreign intelligence agency also time. “Let us start from the point late president Zelensky on the identify key directions of their known as MI6. Asked on the armed attack by the Chinese, a that Donbas and Crimea are first success in the settlement of development. 21. BBC's Today program if the law reached a deadlock after the Ha- spokesman for Philippines Pres- Ukraine,” he answered. The Ukrai- the domestic conflict in south- The sides will also discuss the This will be the first visit noi summit between Kim and US ident Rodrigo Duterte said at would allow him to say whether nian leader believes that Crimea is eastern Ukraine and on the first situation on the Korean Penin- by a Chinese top official to President Donald Trump. While press briefing Monday. Spokes- he had worked for MI6, Stewart not lost for Ukraine. “We hope success in the normalization of sula and the progress of the po- North Korea in 14 years, he add- Washington demands that Py- man Salvador Panelo said the said: "I definitely would say I've that soon it will be returned. I love Russian-Ukrainian relations,” litical settlement", International ed, saying that the trip is timed ongyang completely dismantle Philippines will invoke the trea- served my country and if some- Crimea very much. I have been Putin’s spokesman Dmitry Pes- Liaison Department Head of the to the 70th anniversary of the nuclear facilities in the country in ty “if it is the right thing to do body asked me if I was a spy I there many times. This is a unique kov said. The parties have not Communist Party of China Cen- establishment of diplomatic re- order to get sanctions relief, North with that agreement,” according would say 'no'." The assertion place in Ukraine with its nature agreed to hold a meeting yet; the to a translated transcript of the tral Committee Song Tao said at lations between China and Korea wants part of restrictions originally surfaced in a blogpost and history. For me, Crimea has Russian side does not rule out that a press conference on Tuesday. North Korea. to be lifted before denucleariza- briefing. The treaty calls for the by former diplomat and antiwar U.S. to support the Philippines always been and still stays a part it might take place, but at the mo- Xi’s visit to North Korea is sched- The visit comes as the pen- tion begins. activist Craig Murray. It was lat- if it’s attacked by another coun- of Ukraine,” Zelensky stressed. ment, they are monitoring ‘the uled to take place from June 20- insula settlement process has (Spuntak) try, he said. er picked up in a New Yorker. The Kremlin did not congratulate developments in Kyiv’. WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES

We a r e a n a t ion a l in st it u t ion a n d n ot t h e voice of a gov t or a p r iva t e or ga n iza t ion

AFGHANISTAN TIMES Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.afghanistantimes.af Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Advisory editorial board Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir Graphic-Designers: Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 By Simon Shen Yes, it is convenient because Af- quil. Of course, there is no such through the valleys. In these Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan ghanistan has established a con- thing as absolute safety in reali- schools, teachers can speak for- Many people would probably sulate in a small border town in ty, and that applies to the Wa- eign languages, and have access to Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 think that traveling to Afghanistan Tajikistan, where international khan Corridor as well. online social media. Their biggest Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press must be a very dangerous propo- travelers can apply for fast-track Two years ago, a retreating hope is that the outside world can sition. But the truth is, a trip to Afghan visas at a cost of US$150. group of Taliban troops launched once again regard Afghanistan as the once war-torn Central Asian Although that’s pretty expen- a surprise attack against another a “civilized paradise”. As a mat- country through the Wakhan Cor- sive, there is still considerable de- small town along the Afghan- ter of fact, quite a number of edu- The constitution says ridor can offer another kind of mand for them. Tajikistan border. cation projects in Central Asia are traveling experience. And when I said “fast-track”, I Many locals in the Wakhan Cor- funded by the Aga Khan fund. The Article 119: The Wakhan Corridor is a moun- meant it was really fast: I sub- ridor still have haunting memo- Aga Khan is the hereditary leader Members of the Supreme Court shall take the following oath of office in the presence of the tainous and rugged panhandle in mitted my application at 9:30 ries about the Taliban. Even of Ismailism, a Shia denomination President: “In the of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful, I swear in the name of God Almighty to the far northeastern area of Af- a.m. and got my visa approved though they themselves have re- that is very modernized, and is attain justice and righteousness in accordance with tenets of the Holy religion of Islam, provisions of ghanistan that projects deep into at around 11 a.m. mained relatively safe in the area therefore seen by the Islamic fun- this Constitution as well as other laws of Afghanistan, and to execute the judicial duty with utmost Pakistan, Tajikistan and China. However, apart from paying over the years, many of their damentalists, including the Tali- honesty, righteousness and impartiality.” The salient was off-limits to the US$150, you also have to sign a friends and relatives were killed ban, as a heretical order. Taliban even at the height of its liability waiver to prove that you in other parts of Afghanistan Education is on top of the Aga power, mainly due to its difficult are entering Afghanistan volun- during the Taliban reign. Khan’s agenda. In recent years, terrain. Besides, not only is the tarily rather than “being sent” Still, the area serves as a valuable his denomination has set up the Wakhan Corridor widely consid- there, and that you agree to trav- buffer zone. University of Central Asia, which ered the only safe region for travel el into the country at your own Perhaps what impressed me has three different campuses in across the entire Afghanistan, but risk, before you can get your visa most about the Wakhan Corri- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and it is also – and this is perhaps rel- approved. The nearest Taliban dor are the local schools. Ever Tajikistan. I have paid a visit to atively little known – an impor- position in the Wakhan Corridor since the fall of the Taliban re- the university, and believe it or tant channel through which the is around six hours’ drive from gime, the Afghans have generally not, I felt that their facilities are country is drawing foreign curren- its rural villages. Although it isn’t attached huge importance to ed- even better than those of the Chi- cies. really that far away, the Taliban ucation. nese University of Hong Kong. Recently, I have taken a trip to insurgents rarely, if not never, set And across the Wakhan Corri- These campuses are all built in the Wakhan Corridor from across foot on these villages that lie deep dor, village schools are subsidized the mountain regions of the three the Afghan-Tajikistan border. The in the Pamir Mountains because by the local authorities, and kids, countries, with a view to improv- trip wasn’t originally on my itin- it is simply not “cost-effective” in general, can go to school, al- ing the education level of the next erary, and the main reason why I for them to do so. As a result, though on foot under most cir- generation in these rural areas. suddenly changed my traveling the Wakhan Corridor has become cumstances. That explains why This article appeared in the Hong plan is that it is a “convenient” “another Afghanistan” that is kids in school uniforms can of- Kong Economic Journal on June way to enter Afghanistan. relatively safer and more tran- ten be seen steering their way 14 (ejinsight) Amidst President Ashraf Ghani’s visit to the United Kingdom and talks with Prime Minister Theresa May, Pakistan’s For- eign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had a telephonic call with the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, exchanging views on bilateral interests, particularly on Afghanistan. The events come ahead of Zalmay Khalilzad’s preparedness for seventh round of talks with Taliban in Qatar. Ironic, telephonic con- versation news made public by Pakistan’s High Commission to Great Britain at London at the time when British Premier and Afghan President were busy in a meeting. Khalilzad is hopeful for getting some advances in talks with Taliban. Where- as Taliban leaders believe that developments in peace talks is depending on the US, especially with envoy Khalilzad. “We hope Khalilzad will deliver what he has promised—that he would try to bring to closure the framework for peace on these two issues,” Taliban spokesperson Sohail Shaheen was quot- ed by media. The two issues are included withdrawal sched- ule of foreign troops from Afghanistan and a road map for the future structure of Afghanistan. Both the issues are not com- mon as certain sections within Afghanistan having reservations on pulling of US led troops out of Afghanistan at once and disrupting of the existing political process. Instead, almost Af- ghans are in favor of an intra-Afghan truce through intra Af- ghan dialogues. Though the second round of Moscow intra- Afghan dialogue concluded without positive outcomes in May, but former President along with other leaders in Kabul are hopeful of positive outcomes in future. Now the Norwegian government has announced willingness for hosting of third round of talks, therefore, US along with Russian Fed- eration and Chinese needs to help it in making fruitful pro- By JRABIA NASIMI later it secured a place in its ghanistan meet England on coming together to enjoy the posed Norway talks. It is the time for all of the peace brokers first World Cup. the same pitch. England has occasion. We spoke to Af- This success story is remark- been a long-standing sup- ghan supporters and commu- to convince all internal and external stake holders of ending able considering that for al- porter and advocate of crick- nities at the match who were hostilities, which might be in interests of the whole world. most the entire 1990s there et in Afghanistan. During the celebrating the country’s was no safe space to practice 2003 national trials in Afghan- achievements in making it to Now, there are more expectations from Pakistan to play an or play in Afghanistan. Un- istan, England donated kit the tournament, and enjoying honest role in the peace process in Afghanistan. Islamabad needs Conflict, violence and turmoil der Taliban rule, sports were and British diplomats attend- time with friends and family — have been the main reasons banned. There was no crick- ed to show their support. the result of the game was in- to use its influential on Taliban as the main supporter of the Afghanistan has made head- et team, no pitches and no Like many people who call consequential. The outcome group and pressure them to observe a long ceasefire and even- lines in recent years. Amid a talk of entering into world more than one country of the warmup match suggests war lasting almost two de- competition. Under the shad- “home,” the World Cup is an that any victory for Afghani- tually go the negotiations with the government of Afghanistan. cades, moments of national joy ow of enduring conflict, the exciting moment. Almost 30 stan on Tuesday will be hard Pakistan in the past was dishonest to its commitments regard- and excitement have been few current team has grown up years ago, the British Conser- won, indeed. Afghanistan may and far between. But with the facing challenges that would vative politician Norman Teb- be the underdog, but being ing the Afghan peace and almost sabotaged several efforts made Afghanistan cricket team fac- be unimaginable to many. Ter- bit suggested that immigrants British, it is the underdog that ing England on Tuesday in ror attacks, displacement and who support their homeland I love to back. Afghanistan for peace. It destroyed efforts with ordering the militant group only its second Word Cup ap- conflict continue to affect the rather than England at cricket has overcome many hardships not to accept the intra-Afghan dialogues and intensify attacks pearance, we should celebrate country. However, through- matches were not significant- to reach the World Cup, and I the opportunity to show the out the turmoil, the game has ly integrated. However, the am positive it will demonstrate while their negotiators were talking to Khalilzad. world the progress the coun- been a source of positivity “cricket test,” or so-called its resilience as nations, com- try has made. and strength. Afghanistan is “Tebbit test,” is a myth that munities and cultures come As one of the national sports up against well-established has long since been disman- together over the next few of Afghanistan, cricket has teams, such as Australia, In- tled. The World Cup is a weeks. Regardless of the re- Subscription Rates become synonymous with the dia and England, all of which chance to enjoy and support sult on the pitch, Afghanistan country’s culture and ethos. have access to funding and all and any countries. I know are the winners. Theirs is a Note: The following rates will apply from January 01, 2017. Yet it was only 20 years ago resources that are out of I will be cheering for both story of hope and overcom- reach for most. In this con- sides on Tuesday, soaking up ing the odds that I hope will Categories Fee that a cricket board was estab- lished in the country. In this text, we must celebrate the the atmosphere, enjoying the inspire the next generation of Afghanistan Times short space of time, the Afghan success of the nation in friendly rivalry, and celebrat- people in the country in their Annual Afg: 5400 national side has made an im- standing alongside these in- ing afterwards whatever the pursuits both on and off the at your door step pressive and dogged rise to a ternational titans. It is testa- winner. Volunteers at the Af- field as they continue to break Six Months Afg: 2700 For fast delivery service position where it is able to com- ment to the Afghan people’s ghanistan and Central Asian boundaries. Afghanistan Times seeks the pete with the best at an inter- resilience, tenacity and spirit Association recently attend- • Rabia Nasimi is strategic de- names, addresses of your national level. In 2009, Afghan- in the face of adversity. ed warm-up matches between velopment manager at the Af- International Organization $240 per year organizations and the number of istan was competing in Divi- For members of the Afghan England and Afghanistan, ghanistan and Central Asian copies you want. sion Five, the lowest tier of the diaspora in this country, it is and said the atmosphere was Association. World Cricket league. Six years a moment of pride to see Af- that of a carnival — nations (Arabnews) WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By Sanchita Bhattacharya

On May 11, 2019, Mena Man- The aim is to shutter outposts where troops are often gal, a former journalist and a cul- tural advisor to the Wolesi Jirga, left like sitting ducks for Taliban attackers the Lower House of Parliament, Only a tangle of razor wire marks was killed in the Kart-e-Naw area the entrance of a remote Afghan of Kabul. Mangal had worked as army checkpoint that may soon a news presenter for three local be shuttered as the government TV networks in Kabul, including closes vulnerable outposts after LEMAR TV, Shamshad News, years of losses to Taliban fight- and Ariana TV. Earlier on May 8, ers and desertions. The post in 2019, the Taliban, launched an Wardak province west of Kabul attack on the head office of US- has been hit before, and its sag- funded aid group Counterpart In- ging blast walls and teetering sand- ternational in the Shahr-e-Naw bags make clear the vulnerability area of Kabul city, citing the “in- of the 13 troops living there for termixing” of women and men weeks on end. Now, after years working at the site and its pro- of brutal attacks and mass deser- motion of “western activities”. At tions from similar checkpoints, least nine people were killed (in- the Afghan government is acting cluding five members of the Af- Offences of Violence against of silence, as violence is meted out (as well as fatalities in various on long-standing American re- ghan Security Forces) and 20 were Women”, published in May, by family members and conserva- categories, including quests to close them. The aim is wounded in a siege that lasted 2018, 237 cases of violence tive groups. The factors contrib- civilians).The decision to end to shutter outposts where troops military's Task Force Southeast, or pay because of mismanagement more than seven hours. An Af- against women were reported in uting to this violence include the these assessments, which have are often left like sitting ducks said it was challenging to finally and corruption. And if an attack ghan woman who has worked at 22 Afghan provinces monitored failure to deal decisively with per- been produced in various forms for Taliban attackers and consol- change the Afghan military's does come, back-up may never Counterpart for more than three by UNAMA between August petrators; a culture of impunity; since 2010, was published in the idate them onto larger bases – view. "They have a lot of polit- arrive. years, speaking on condition of 2015 and December 2017, and perceptions that violence against latest quarterly report by the several of which are under con- ical pressure at the local level On Gen Miller's visit, US anonymity, stated, “The Taliban another 280 cases of murder and women is ‘normal’; illiteracy and American Special Inspector Gen- struction. The plan is for troops with district governors and par- snipers and soldiers secured the want to kill women who work honour killings were also docu- low levels of public awareness; tra- eral for Afghanistan Reconstruc- to lead offensive missions, tak- liamentarians who have said this isolated facility's perimeter and with men. If I die, there will be no mented by the UN mission. This ditional patterns of marriage; cor- tion (SIGAR). According to the ing the fight to the Taliban in- is our only visible representa- one Afghan soldier complained to one to feed my parents and sib- is the sixth UNAMA report on ruption and abuse of state posi- SIGAR, Quarterly Report, pub- stead of trying to survive day- tion of [the government] in these his higher-ups about not having lings.” violence against women since tions; women’s limited access to lished on April 30, 2019: to-day in often deplorable living remote areas," he said. been paid for three months. Mangal’s killing is just the latest 2009, when the UN mission in justice; the lack of security; and This quarter, the U.S.-command- conditions with little outside sup- For General Scott Miller, Asadullah Khalid, Afghani- in a number of slayings of Afghan Afghanistan began monitoring the weakness of state authority in the ed NATO Resolute Support (RS) port. The "checkpoint is a failed who leads Nato's Afghanistan stan's acting defence minister, women over the past 18 years, implementation of the law on the districts and provinces. Neverthe- mission in Afghanistan formally tactic", Dadan Lawang, an Afghan mission and the US war effort blamed a documentation issue and since the toppling of Taliban re- Elimination of Violence Against less, there have been some visible notified SIGAR that it is no long- army general, said recently at a in the country, the closure of said it would be fixed. gime. Most Afghan men in this Women (EVAW). gains for women. The maternal er assessing district-level insur- US base in Paktia province, south checkpoints is crucial for the His staff dished out several traditionally conservative society Further, as reported in Decem- mortality rate in Afghanistan re- gent or government control or in- of Kabul. About 50 per cent of Afghan military. $100 bills to soldiers from a wad still hold the view that women are ber 2018, Afghanistan ranked duced from 1,340 deaths per fluence. The RS mission said the military casualties occur at check- "They don't lose people in that Khalid said was a gift for Eid, inferior and have no right to free- second among the worst places 100,000 live births in 1990 to 396 district-level stability assess- points, he said, a grim number [offensive] operations, they kill the festival marking the end of dom. Some of the women have in the world to be a woman. The in 2015, (according to World Bank ments were “of limited decision- considering tens of thousands of Taliban," Gen Miller told US Ramadan. "I want to make sure been killed in so-called ‘honour’ report quoted a project of the Th- data). Also, in contrast to the strict making value to the [RS] Com- Afghan troops have been killed military officials at a recent that everyone sitting on a check- killings carried out by their own omson Reuters Foundation, Taliban years, when women were mander…. According to the or wounded since the end of 2014 meeting. "You want to hear my point gets a pay cheque and food," families; others have been killed which conducted a poll on the banned from work, made to wear a NATO RS mission, control of – losses the massively depleted [tactical] priorities? Talk about Gen Miller told AFP. by terrorist groups that object to world’s worst places to be a full-length burqa that covered their Afghanistan’s districts, popula- Afghan military can ill afford. checkpoints." To hammer his "It's a leadership issue. These women in public roles and who woman. According to the poll, face and not allowed out without a tion, and territory has become "We want to draw down all message, Gen Miller makes fre- are things we take for granted." speak about women’s rights. Afghanistan is ranked second, male relative, a March, 2019 re- more contested over the last two those checkpoints and establish quent trips across Afghanistan, While critics agree Afghan On April 18, 2019, a woman, with India at rank 1, Syria at 3, port, states that women in Afghan- years, resulting in a stalemated strong bases now," Gen Lawang bringing local military com- checkpoints have little tactical along with her husband, was killed at 4 and at istan now constitute 27 per cent battlefield environment between told AFP. manders to show them troops' value, they differ over whether by the Taliban in the Ozan Saqaal 5. Women in today’s Afghanistan each in Parliament and in the civil the ANDSF and the insurgency. The idea of closing check- living conditions. On a visit to withdrawing troops to bases will area of Gosfandi District in Sar- face a host of daily threats in the service. Talks between the Taliban The plight of women (who con- points has been taboo in Afghan the Wardak checkpoint last make them more willing to fight. e-Pul Province. Military sources form of insurgency violence, ho- and the US are a serious source of stitute 48.52 per cent of the total politics for years. A tiny fort fly- week, Gen Miller said he want- Closing checkpoints "essentially stated that that the circumstanc- nour killing, stoning to death, concern for Women’s rights activ- population of 37,209,007) in Af- ing the black, red and green na- ed to open Afghan command- cedes ground to the Taliban and es surrounding the killing of the beatings, rape, giving away of ists, with many worried that a deal ghanistan has been pulled into tional flag sends a message that ers' eyes to the perilousness of gets the [Afghan security forces] couple have not been ascertained. girls in marriage to resolve dis- between the two sides could erode focus in recent months, as many the government holds an area, such outposts. The scruffy on to larger bases, where they of- On October 24, 2018, the Taliban putes, enforced prostitution, the hard-won freedoms and rights in the war-torn country worry and Afghan politics is built on a camp, where troops sleep in ten hunker down," said Bill Rog- killed a woman and her child for burning or using chemical sub- of Afghan women and girls in ex- that the limited rights available patchwork of alliances with re- converted shipping containers gio, a senior fellow at the Founda- running away from home in the stances to deface, and forced im- change for peace. Kabul-based to women will be lost if the Unit- gional power brokers, many of with smashed windows, is a tion for Defence of Democracies Shahrak District of Ghor Prov- molation or suicide, mostly in the women’s rights activist Maqadasa ed States makes a deal with the them in remote places. short distance from Highway 1 think tank in Washington. But ince. On March 19, 2018, a wom- name of religion and tribal cus- Atalwali observed, “We need to Taliban. US negotiations with the "To maintain an alliance suf- – a key route for sending goods Colonel David Butler, a US mili- an was beheaded by Taliban ter- toms. Three decades of war and keep up the fight and be prepared Taliban are dangerous for the al- ficient to remain in office ... the and supplies into Kabul and tary spokesman in Kabul, said rorists in the Baharak District of devastation has ruined the social for what may come to Afghanistan ready deteriorating situation, par- president of Afghanistan has of- around the country. But despite Afghan troops "are doing more Badakhshan Province. The motive fabric of the entire nation. The in the near future.” The Taliban, ticularly for women in the coun- ten preferred to push troops out its strategic location, troops at independent operations and are behind the killing was not known. deep-rooted social conditioning who have disruptive influence in try. Since the commencement of into locations that make no mili- the checkpoint and others like more effective during those oper- According to the latest UNAMA of women has forced them to stay nearly half of Afghanistan, are seek- peace talks between the US and tary sense but are politically im- it often go without regular food ations". (United Nations Assistance Mis- away from the political, social ing to impose their harsh interpre- the Taliban, there has been ex- portant," said Stephen Biddle, a sion in Afghanistan) report on and economic mainstream of the tation of Islam in areas they con- tremely limited participation and professor at Columbia Universi- women’s rights, jointly prepared country for a considerable peri- trol. Unsurprisingly, the US mili- involvement of women, and the ty in New York who has written with the United Nations High od of time. Even after the ouster tary has stopped disclosing esti- future of women in Afghanistan extensively about Afghanistan. Commissioner for Human Rights ICCWorldCup2019:Match of the Taliban, most women still mates of how much of Afghani- is falling further into darkness. US Army Brigadier General (OHCHR), titled, “Injustice and live in fear and suffer under a veil stan is controlled by the Taliban (eurasiareview) Kevin Admiral, who heads the US Impunity: Mediation of Criminal 24,EnglandvsAfghanistan — Weather forecast | T h ey wa n ted a son so m u ch th ey m a de Hourlytemperatureand th eir da u gh ter live a s a boy chances of rain Will the weather be a hindrance in this game? By Sheena McKenzie says much about the discrimina- "she." Mangal is a cherished extra says, he likes to play football against women, that they can't tion faced by Afghan girls quite pair of hands for the family of nine with other boys in the village, be themselves and live like a Sanjoor, Afghanistan — At first literally from the moment they're who earn around 6,000 Afghani where he is the only bacha posh woman freely." 'There were so glance, 13-year-old Mangal Ka- born. After all, "no one who has (around $80) per month -- meager child. His father, Khoda, says many advantages and disadvan- rimy could be any boy living in a only sons is transforming them even by Afghanistan's standards. neighbors have been accepting of tages' Making the transition back small village in western Afghani- into a daughter," Hashimi says. "I love all my daughters but I love Mangal, only telling him that the to living as a girl -- particularly stan, hauling firewood and feed- The transition is temporary, and Madina more as I ask her to do child "should wear girl's clothes after a brief glimpse of male free- ing cattle on his father's farm. bacha posh children are expect- work like 'go take care of the cattle' when she grows up." To which doms -- can be a painful process. Silently he hurries between chores ed to shed their male identities or 'bring something to a neighbor,'" Khoda replied: "Of course." Even Shazia, who did not want her last -- a slight figure in luminous white once they hit puberty and return says Khoda. "Otherwise there is when people realize a child is, in name published, was nine years trainers, lugging jerry cans of wa- to living as girls -- something that no difference between them." Au- fact, a girl dressed as a boy, "they old and living in Kabul in 1990 ter across barren fields. doesn't always come easily. Un- thor Hashimi says that Afghani- kind of go along with it," explains when her parents decided to tran- Until the age of two, Mangal was derpinning the custom is the su- stan's love for its sons has practi- Hashimi. sition her to bacha posh for five Madina, one of seven daughters perstition that a bacha posh child cal roots. In this agricultural econ- "There's this understanding that years. With civil war raging, Sha- chosen by her parents to live as a will "turn the hand of fate, so omy it's the boys who chop wood, the family is using this loophole zia's parents had already sent her boy under an Afghan tradition that the next child born into the plow the field, travel independent- to get around this void, to try and two older brothers away to Rus- By Bijoy called "bacha posh," a Dari term family will be a boy," Hashimi ly and work outside the home, she right their family, and have a sia to avoid them being drafted. that translates to "dressed as a says. Mangal's father, Khoda says. And when they marry, their source of honor and pride," she But when her father -- a middle- boy." For as long as Mangal can Bakhsh Karimy, told CNN that wives -- and the next generation of says. Mangal occupies a blurred class businessman dealing in im- Hosts England will be eyeing ond ton of the tournament to pow- remember, he tucks his long hair should the family have a son, the children -- are absorbed into the space between daughter and son. ports and exports -- lost his leg their fourth win of the World er England to a convincing eight- under a woolen cap, pulls on his child would return to living as a family. For girls, it's a very differ- When not working on the farm, in an accident, her mother and the Cup 2019 when they take on wicket win. England, meanwhile, jacket and trousers and helps his girl. Until then or the point when ent story. A daughter is expected he attends a girls' school along remaining six daughters were left struggling Afghanistan at the Old will miss Roy for this game too father tend their wheat and dairy Mangal hits puberty, Khoda and to be "demure" and "help with do- with four of his sisters. But he without a breadwinner. Trafford in Manchester. En- due to an injury to the opener. farm in the snow-capped village his wife Amena Karimy were mestic chores," says Hashimi. does so dressed as a boy and "That's when my family decided gland will be firm favourites to As far as Afghanistan are con- of Sanjoor, in Herat province. "happy" with Mangal and the Outside the home, a girl "haggling known by his male name. for me to dress up as a boy," win the game. The hosts are not cerned, not much has gone their In Afghanistan's deeply patriar- responsibilities he carries out, in the market" or "looking adults "No, I don't consider him like a says Shazia, who, as the third only an experienced and stron- way in this tournament. They chal society, sons are highly val- like "welcoming guests to our in the eye" would come as a shock son," says Khoda. "We know she daughter, was deemed old enough ger side but are also in fine form were tipped to be the surprise ued over daughters -- to the point home and offering them tea or for some people, she adds. For is a girl, in the future she must to help her mother outside the at the moment. Afghanistan, on package of the World Cup but the where a family is deemed "incom- food." 'I made my daughter like a parents without a son, bacha posh wear girl's clothes and marry home -- but still young enough the other hand, have struggled newcomers have failed to live up plete" without a boy, says Nadia boy' After having two girls, Man- is a workaround to these obstacles someone." Each family has their to pass for a boy. gal's parents longed for a son. "We that cuts across socioeconomic own take on bacha posh. Jour- "I had to play the role of a son," to deliver in the World Cup so to the expectations. With four loss- Hashimi, an Afghan-American far. Their inexperience on the es in as many games, Afghanistan pediatrician and author of the made her like a son to help her lines. Data on the practice is scarce, nalist Ehrari said some parents says Shazia, who went by the best-selling 2014 bacha posh nov- father," said mother Amena. but Hashimi says almost every told her they were "trying to hide male name Mirwas and was made biggest stage of the game is very are reeling at the bottom of the el "The Pearl That Broke Its "I made my daughter like a boy Afghan she interviewed for her or don't want to show others that to cut her hair and wear boys' much evident as they have not points table. Afghanistan had suf- Shell." Girls are brought up be- to serve me food and water when book knew of a bacha posh child - they have daughter." A son is a clothes. Practically overnight managed to come up with their fered a heavy nine-wicket loss lieving they are a burden on the I am working in the desert," fa- - regardless of region or class. 'Peo- source of pride, whereas "having Shazia's daily chores changed usual performances. England are against England in the warm-up family, said Sodaba Ehrari, Chief ther Khoda said. In the Dari lan- ple kind of go along with it' Sitting a daughter is a shame," they said. dramatically -- from "cleaning and coming to this game on the back game and will have to play out of Editor of the Afghanistan Women guage there are no gender pro- beside his father in their simple Other parents said they desper- feeding the chickens" to "accom- of a thumping win over the their skin to even challenge their News Agency (AWNA), who has nouns "he" and "she." But Man- mudbrick home, softly spoken ately wanted their daughters to panying my mum at the local Windies in their last outing. It formidable opponents. How’s the interviewed several parents of gal told CNN he preferred being Mangal keeps his answers brief. "have achievements." But in a market." Sometimes Shazia was a thorough all-round per- weather expected to be? bacha posh children. Women "can- referred to by his male identity - With a shy, quick smile, he says society where "everything is just would even get groceries alone, formance from the Eoin Mor- The weather forecast is very not earn money to support their - and the English equivalent "he." that "yes" he likes being a boy and for men," bacha posh was the something she described as a gan-led side. England bowled out promising. According to Accu- families, they cannot live alone -- His parents meanwhile, believe prefers being referred to by the only way "their daughters could "huge undertaking, especially for the Caribbean outfit for a pal- Weather, the chances of rainfall at and so many reasons (like this) that Mangal's gender at birth -- English pronoun "he." But, he live in freedom," said Ehrari. a young girl." "There were so try total of 212. Pacers Jofra the start of the game will be lead them in this patriarchal soci- female -- remains unchanged. The adds: "I would like to go back to Their clothes might be different, many advantages and disadvan- English translation of their con- being a girl when I grow up." When but the inequality remains, said tages to being bacha posh," says Archer and Mark Wood starred around 6 percent. It will increase ety to practice bacha posh," she with the ball, picking up three as the game wears on but there is said. The centuries-old tradition versation uses the pronoun not helping on the farm, Mangal Ehrari. "This is an injustice Shazia, today a 37-year-old mother of three daughters, work- wickets apiece. The score was no real reason to worry as it is ing for a women's NGO in the never going to challenge the for- unlikely to cross the 20 percent United States. As "Mirwas" she midable batting line-up and Joe mark. As far as the temperature is Disclaimer: could "fly kites, play soccer with Root ensured that the opposi- concerned, it will be hovering be- neighborhood kids, ride my dad's tion does not make a comeback. tween 16-18 Degree Celsius The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) bicycle -- all of which were not With Jason Roy out due to a throughout. The humidity will be and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Afghanistan Times. ordinary activities for a girl in Af- hamstring injury, Root opened in the lower 60s for the most part ghanistan," Shazia told CNN by the innings and scored his sec- of the game. phone from her New York home. WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES WatchdogcallsonEUtosaveseamigrants asblocemphasizescontrolof borders A European rights watchdog said gration to Europe. The bloc's 28 the sea to Europe so far this year. on Tuesday that the European national leaders are set to restate The data also shows nearly Union was violating internation- their commitment to these poli- 15,000 people are estimated to al law with its increasingly re- cies in a new "Strategic Agenda have died or gone missing in the strictive stance on migration and for 2019-2024", a document they perilous sea voyage since 2015, should step up sea rescues - an are due to endorse at a summit in including more than 500 so far this element that is not part of the Brussels on Thursday and Fri- year. The Council of Europe, the bloc's new five-year action plan. day and a draft of which was seen continent's leading rights organi- The EU has become tougher on by Reuters. "Effective control of sation that includes EU states and immigration since a 2015 spike the external borders is an abso- others as members, said the bloc in Mediterranean arrivals caught lute prerequisite for guarantee- had failed in its duty to save lives it by surprise, stretching social ing security, upholding law and and prevent returning people to and security resources and feed- order, and ensuring properly where they are at risk. "(EU mem- ing support for right-wing and functioning EU policies," it says. ber states) have adopted laws, eurosceptic forces across the United Nations data shows ir- policies and practices which have bloc. The EU has since tightened regular sea arrivals from the Mid- often been contrary to their legal its external borders and asylum dle East and North Africa obligations to ensure effective laws, as well as giving aid to non- dropped from over 1 million in search and rescue operations, the EU states on the eastern and 2015 to some 141,500 people last prompt and safe disembarkation southern rim of the Mediterra- year. Fewer than 23,000 refugees and treatment of rescued people, nean to help them contain mi- and migrants have made it across and the prevention of torture. Russiawarnsof “cyberwar” following report theUSattackeditspower grid The Kremlin on Monday to conduct offensive online op- damage to the country's econo- warned that reported US digital erations, the publication said. my. Saturday's NYT article came incursions into Russia's electric Some analysts have cast doubt one day after researchers with se- power grid could trigger a "cy- on the NYT reporting that the curity firm Dragos said that hack- berwar" between the two coun- United States has put implants ers behind at least two dangerous tries. The warning came two inside Russia's grid, and the pub- intrusions on industrial facilities A senior adviser to the Iranian the CSS is “a think tank responsi- they should push America to put Mohammad Baqeri, chief of staff days after The New York Times lication was clear it had no clas- have expanded their activities to government said war is “inevita- ble for advising the Rouhani ad- an end to the economic war for the Iranian military, denied reported that the US Cyber sified information detailing how probing dozens of power grids in ble” if the United States does not ministration in Iran on foreign pol- against Iran,” he said. Hosseini’s culpability in recent attacks on oil Command, the arm of the Penta- deep into Russia's power infra- the US and elsewhere. Last year, lift sanctions against Iran, Saudi icy as well as internal affairs.” threats included telling the for- tankers in the Gulf of Oman and gon that runs the military's of- structure the US has bored. The researchers with security firm Arabia’s Al Arabiya reported President Hassan Rouhani is the eign minister of the United Arab said on Monday that if Iran wants fensive and defensive operations report, however, was enough to FireEye said the hacker group's Monday. “If American people re- chief executive of the secular wing Emirates (UAE) on Friday that to blockade oil shipments, “it is in the online world, was aggres- get the attention of Kremlin offi- malware—which actively targets ally don’t want to go to war with of Iran’s government and subser- the UAE will be “wiped out from militarily strong enough to do that sively stepping up its targeting cials, who pushed back in a post safety systems used to prevent Iran, the US president should vient to Supreme Leader Ayatol- the map” if Iran goes to war. fully and publicly.” of Russia's grid. Saturday's re- published Monday by the TASS explosions, fires, and other po- abandon the current course of lah Ali Khamenei. Hosseini also “The wise action on your behalf Israel / Middle EastNational Se- port said the command had tak- news agency, which is owned by tentially fatal accidents—was de- policy in regard to sanctioning said last week that “as long as is to be cautious about what you curityIranoil tankersSanctions- en steps to place "potentially the Russian government. "If one veloped with the help of the Cen- Iran. Otherwise, rising tensions America’s economic war against wish for,” the belligerent analyst Strait of HormuzUnited Arab crippling malware inside the assumes that some government tral Scientific Research Institute automatically will drive us to an Iran continues, Iran does not give told the UAE minister. Maj. Gen. Emirates Russian system at a depth and agencies do this without inform- of Chemistry and Mechanics in unavoidable war, sooner or lat- any guarantees that the tools it with an aggressiveness that had ing the head of state, then of Moscow. er,” said Diako Hosseini, a senior will use to counter this economic never been tried before." In some course this may indicate that The NYT said the United States' analyst at the Center for Strate- war will be merely economic cases, the NYT reported, Penta- cyberwar against Russia might increasingly offensive digital in- gic Studies (CSS) in Tehran on tools.” “It is not our problem if Weneedtousepersuasion gon and intelligence officials have be a hypothetical possibility," cursions into Russia's electric in- Friday. that is a cause for concern for oth- been hesitant to brief President Russian Presidential Spokesman frastructure were part of a broad- According to Al-Arabiya News, er countries. If they are worried, Trump in detail about the activ- Dmitry Peskov said. The er view designed to make Russia rather than military action ities out of concern he might spokesman went on to say that and other US adversaries pay a countermand the operations or "vital areas of our economy are price for engaging in cyberopera- inVenezuela,Colombia’s discuss them with foreign offi- under continuous attacks from tions against the US or US inter- cials. Last year, Trump gave the abroad." Russian agencies have ests. Such operations include in- president says Cyber Command more leeway countered the attacks to prevent roads into US industrial systems. Daily pressure should be exerted tional community to recognize on Venezuela’s military to defect Guaido as acting president after Yemeni Drones from the President Nicolas Ma- the leader of the opposition-con- duro regime rather than interna- trolled National Assembly de- Strike2Saudi CanHuaweiSurvive? tional military intervention, Co- clared himself interim leader in We knew it was going to be bad. ering its sales target to about $100 lombia’s president told CNBC January. Airports But could being placed on the billion from previous estimates of Tuesday. “For the weeks to Political stalemate appears to have Trump Administration's export $125 billion to $130 billion. The come, and for the months to set in for Venezuela, however, with The Yemeni Army announced blacklist actually be enough to Bloomberg news service has re- come, I actually believe that the Maduro hanging onto power and that the drone units of the coun- put Huawei out of business? ported that Huawei is expecting best thing we can do in the inter- still backed by the military and try’s Army and Ansarullah Pop- It was clear from the very begin- its international smartphone ship- Defense ministry’s main task - national community is to put allies including Russia. The U.S. ular Forces managed to carry out ning that the Trump Adminis- ments to drop by some 40-60%. enough pressure, and make the said it has not ruled out military strikes against 2 airports in Sau- tration's move to add Huawei to "It's a disaster for Huawei," said big call to the Venezuelan mili- action in Venezuela but there ap- di Arabia. Arabic-language al- an export blacklist last month Bill McClean, president of IC In- tokeepAzerbaijaniarmyin tary, that they should step on the pears to be little appetite to ini- Masirah television network quoted the Yemeni Army as re- would have devastating conse- sights, in a recent interview with right side of history and that tiate a potentially protracted in- quences for the Chinese telecom- EE Times. "I don't care how they constant combat readiness means stepping side-to-side with tervention there. porting late on Saturday that President (Juan) Guaido and the “What we have said is that we drone units of the Yemeni Army munications giant. But in the try to spin it. If this extends for a Only some units of the Azerbaijani army were involved in battles in (National) Assembly,” President have to combine all instruments and Ansarullah Popular Forces weeks that followed, some in- year or two, they're out of busi- April 2016, when the Armenian army was defeated, Azerbaijani De- Ivan Duque told CNBC’s Jou- to achieve the most important hit two airports in Saudi Arabia, dustry insiders and analysts have ness." McClean and other ana- fense Minister, Colonel-General Zakir Hasanov said at a press con- using Qasif-K2 combat drones. questioned whether Huawei — lysts acknowledge that Huawei ference in Baku, Trend reports on June 18. Hasanov stressed that manna Bercetche in London on objective which is Maduro step- Tuesday. “I think that’s far more ping out of power, so that’s why Saudi Arabia has been striking the largest telecommunications — currently the No. 2 supplier being in a stalemate, the Armenians sent to the front even elderly since March 2015 to re- company in the world and one of handsets worldwide — could people who were unable to fight. The minister stressed that success- important than any military ac- I have been a promoter of the dip- tion that can come from abroad,” lomatic blockade,” Duque said. store power to fugitive president of the largest companies in Chi- likely source many of the parts it ful reforms are underway in the Azerbaijani army. "The army is devel- Mansour Hadi, a close ally of na — can even survive after be- needs from non-U.S. suppliers in oping in all directions, which is testified by the international organiza- Duque said. A “daily call’ had to Migration crisis be made to the Venezuela mili- In the meantime, Colombia is un- Riyadh. The Saudi-led aggression ing cut off from re-supply of China or other parts of the world, tions,” Hasanov added. “The main directions of the reform are to has so far killed more than 20,000 U.S. chips and other components. as long as South Korean memory provide the army with modern armament and equipment, increase tary to persuade them to defect der pressure from the sheer Yemenis, including hundreds of from supporting Maduro, Duque amount of Venezuelans fleeing the Huawei was known to have chip vendors Samsung Electron- combat effectiveness, develop infrastructure and take other measures,” women and children. Despite stockpiled a large number of ics and SK Hynix continue to sell he said. “Azerbaijan often conducts large-scale exercises. The modern suggested. Maduro is still in pow- country. According to the UNH- Riyadh's claims that it is bomb- er despite an attempt to oust the CR (the UN’s refugee agency) and chips over the past several memory chips to the company. educational centers operate. The exercises are held in conditions sim- ing the positions of the Ansarul- months in anticipation of U.S. But many of the parts Huawei ilar with combat conditions. More military units and formations will controversial leader by opposi- IOM (the International Organiza- lah fighters, Saudi bombers are tion lawmaker Guaido earlier this tion for Migration), the number government action. Company buys from U.S. firms are so dra- be involved in such exercises." “The role of the Turkish Armed Forces flattening residential areas and CEO Ren Zhengfei initially said matically superior to those avail- year. Political turmoil in neigh- of refugees and migrants fleeing civilian infrastructures. Yemen is in the combat capability and professionalism of the Azerbaijani army the U.S. government was updat- able elsewhere in the world that is high,” he said. "We use the experience of the Turkish army and boring Venezuela has dominated Venezuela has rocketed to 4 mil- the world’s largest humanitarian conduct joint exercises with the Turkish armed forces. Eight exercises Colombia’s foreign policy con- lion people by mid-2019 with crisis with more than 22 million ing Huawei's capabilities and de- they have a hard time seeing Hua- were held last year, while this year their number will be increased up cerns this year. Duque was one many seeking asylum in neighbor- people in need and is seeing a clared that the ban would have wei remaining competitive with- to 13". The minister added that Azerbaijani President, Supreme Com- of the first leaders in the interna- ing countries. spike in needs, fueled by ongo- no impact on Huawei's planned out them. For example, Huawei mander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev pays great attention to the army from ing conflict, a collapsing econo- rollout of 5G technology. But has been on a drive to build more a social point of view. "Most of the officers of the Azerbaijani army my and diminished social services this week, Zhengfei acknowl- of its own chips to fill its needs, are constantly on the front line, and their families live in the houses and livelihoods. The blockade on edged that the U.S. ban will hit pushing subsidiary HiSilicon to rented in nearby villages,” he said. “The Defense Ministry appealed Trumpfiresstaff after Yemen has smothered humani- Huawei's sales harder than he ini- design more advanced ARM- to the president, and the funds being allocated to officers for rental tarian deliveries of food and med- tially expected. Huawei slashed based processors such as the 10- housing increased. This decision was appreciated by the Azerbaijani icine to the import-dependent its revenue forecast for this year nm Kirin SoC. But such chips are army." (Trend) he'shumiliatedbyhisown state. by as much as $30 billion, low- still well behind cutting-edge. TwonewMinistersappointed pollsshowinghimlosing E U ou tlin es en gagem en t to Continuing his tradition of firm. Indeed, the man has no blaming everyone but himself loyalty to anyone. March in- B lack S ea r egion al cooper ation inKazakhstan for his poor performance, ternal poll data showed Trump Two new Ministers have been appointed in Kazakhstan, reports Trump fired several of his in- trailing Biden in 11 key battle- The EU foreign ministers adopt- torial integrity, the United Na- Council of the European Union. Akorda. "Bakhyt Sultanov has been appointed as a Minister of Trade ternal pollsters over leaked ground states. In the states ed the conclusions on EU's en- tions Convention on the Law of The Council of the European and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Magzum Mirzagaliyev polls showing he would lose that provided him with his nar- gagement to the Black Sea region- the Sea, including freedom of Union also reaffirms its long- has been appointed as a Minister of Ecology, Geology and Natural to Joe Biden. It isn't clear if row path to victory in 2016 — al cooperation, emphasizing that navigation, as well as EU policy standing commitment to foster- Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan," reads the decree. Trump was firing his pollsters Florida, Michigan, Pennsylva- a nonrecognition policy on ille- decisions and its nonrecognition ing prosperity, stability and re- Two new Ministries - the Ministry of Trade and Integration and the because the data leaked or nia, and Wisconsin — he's be- gal annexation of Crimea is fun- policy on the illegal annexation silience in the Black Sea area. The Ministry of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources - have been because his performance in hind Biden by double digits. damental to the EU's approach of Crimea are fundamental to the Council welcomes the sector-ori- created in Kazakhstan. the polls was so weak. Either He faces similar bad news in to regional cooperation in the EU's approach to regional coop- ented and pragmatic cooperation way, it's indicative of Trump's Iowa, North Carolina, Virginia, Black Sea area. eration in the Black Sea area,” within the Black Sea Synergy ini- inability to accept the truth: Ohio, Georgia, Minnesota, and “The Council reiterates that re- read the Council Conclusions on tiative that aims to build confi- OSCE supports seminar Americans overwhelmingly Maine. And it isn't just that he spect for international law, in- the EU's engagement to the Black dence, foster regional dialogue and disapprove of his job perfor- trails in swing states. Trump's cluding the principles of inde- Sea regional cooperation pub- deliver tangible results to the ben- for young community mance, and his own polling data also shows that he is "un- pendence, sovereignty and terri- lished on the website of the efit of both the region and the EU. data shows they have no in- derperforming" in red states leadersin Kyrgyzstan tention of reelecting him. For that "haven't been competitive most presidential candidates, for decades." For example, on preventing VERLT such a negative response to Trump leads by only 2 points Beijing’sDilemmaOver HongKongProtests a candidate would mean it was in Texas. Some 30 young community activists from all seven provinces of Kyr- time to redesign the cam- Trump initially tried to say that Hong Kong Chief Executive Car- respect and understanding for the A: Since Hong Kong affairs gyzstan participated in an intensive three-day training workshop on paign's approach or perhaps the polls were "fake news," but rie Lam is facing calls to step SAR government’s decision [to and working relations between the prevention of violent extremism and radicalization that lead to down over her handling of an suspend the amendments] and the central and SAR governments terrorism (VERLT). The event concluded on 18 June 2019 in Issyk- shake up key campaign staff. then his people confirmed the But doing those things would numbers, but tried to excuse unpopular extradition bill, huge will continue its staunch support are entirely domestic affairs, this Kul, northern Kyrgyzstan. The training sessions were delivered by protests against it, and its sus- for Chief Executive Carrie Lam is not a question to be answered three prominent experts of the Interior Ministry’s Service for Coun- require Trump to admit he's them by saying they're "an- tering Extremism and Illegal Migration with the support of the OSCE polling poorly, which he won't cient." pension last Saturday. (For a re- and the SAR government in gov- by the foreign ministry. I’d refer Programme Office in Bishkek. They raised the participants’ aware- do. Instead, he's shooting the Now, Parscale claims that there cap of these events, see CDT’s erning Hong Kong in accordance you to the competent authority ness on the relevant legal framework, key terms and concepts, princi- earlier posts or listen to a con- with law and upholding the for more information. I’d like to messengers: his pollsters that have been "huge swings in the cise but thorough podcast ac- SAR’s prosperity and stability bring to your attention to re- ples of tolerance and diversity, online prevention of violent extremism brought him data he didn't President’s favor across the 17 as well as possible driving factors of and ways to prevent VERLT. count from The New York with people from all sectors. sponse by the Spokesperson of “The training course is a great platform to bring together young lead- like. states we have polled, based Times’ Austin Ramzy.) Even [Source] The ministry’s Lu Kang the Hong Kong and Macao Af- ers of Kyrgyzstan, to enhance their knowledge of VERLT and com- Two pollsters that helped with on the policies espoused by some local lawmakers who sup- reiterated this stance at a press fairs Office of the State Council bine their efforts in peacebuilding and stability, both in Kyrgyzstan the 2016 campaign were let go, the Democrats." Given that ported the initial legal amend- conference on Monday, follow- that the Central Government gives and across the region,” noted Sergei Sizov, the Police Co-operation including one, Michael poll after poll shows Trump is ments have become sharply crit- ing the two-million-strong march full recognition to and will con- Officer in the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. Baselice, who is close with personally unpopular, as are his ical of Lam. Beijing, however, is the day before: Q: Following fur- tinue its firm support for the Throughout the workshop, the participants were fully engaged in Brad Parscale, Trump's 2020 hateful policies, everyone in standing by her. Chinese Foreign ther mass demonstrations in Chief Executive and the SAR gov- interactive group and individual work, including presentations, dis- campaign manager. Trump his campaign is going to have Ministry spokesman Geng Shua- Hong Kong yesterday, does the ernment in carrying out their work cussions, case studies, practical exercises as well as artistic perfor- also got rid of Brett Lloyd, to do a lot of spinning until ng said in a statement on Satur- Hong Kong Chief Executive still according to law. [Source] Citing mances. As a result, the young community leaders were able to draft day: The Chinese Central Gov- enjoy the support of the Central an anonymous Hong Kong offi- their own initiatives on countering instances of VERLT at the commu- who heads The Polling Com- November 2020. nity level. pany, Kellyanne Conway's old (AFP) ernment expresses its support, Government? cial, Reuters’ James Pomfret. WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Turkish industrial Venezuela’scollapse output dips in April after first-quarter fraysitseconomic growth Turkey’s industrial production fell in April after growing on a month- tieswithRussia ly basis in the previous three MOSCOW — In his toughest political play.” Russia’s public months, official data showed. moments, Venezuelan President display of support came at a Output fell by 1 percent in April Nicolás Maduro has turned to number of crucial moments since compared with March, the Turk- Russia for support. When the the opposition leader, Juan ish Statistical Institute said on its United States sanctioned the Ven- Guaidó, proclaimed himself the website on Tuesday. Production ezuelan energy industry in Janu- country’s interim president in of intermediate goods, durable ary, Russia’s oil firm Rosneft January, challenging Mr. Ma- goods and capital goods all fell. helped to divert its oil exports to duro’s grip on power and plung- Economists are warning of a pos- Asia. And when rumors of an ing the country deeper into po- sible double-dip recession in Tur- armed American intervention litical crisis. Russia’s support key starting in the second quarter reached fever pitch in March, two allowed Mr. Maduro to claim the of this year. The economy grew airplanes with Russian military backing of a powerful ally and to by 1.3 percent in the first quarter technicians landed in Caracas — maintain critical support in the compared with the previous three a reminder Russia was on Vene- military and the ruling party. months, emerging from a techni- zuela’s side. Yet there is growing But in economic matters, Rus- cal recession in the second half of evidence that, beyond these high- sian state-owned companies are 2018. Industrial production also profile gestures with limited ef- cutting back on the business they dropped by 4 percent in April fect on the ground, economic ties do with the bankrupt nation to compared with the same month between Venezuela and Russia are protect their bottom line, show- of last year, the eight-straight an- fraying. Russian banks, grain ex- ing the limits of President nual decline, the data showed. The porters, even weapons manufac- Vladimir V. Putin’s strategy of annual contraction in production turers have all curtailed business propping up an ally and antago- was almost double that of March, with Venezuela, driven away by nizing the Trump administration. when it fell 2.2 percent. The the very economic collapse they The Russian government has not March figure had amounted to the intended to help Russia’s South filled the breach, refusing to is- slowest decline since September. American ally withstand. “Rus- sue Venezuela new credit lines, Other data published this month sia’s economic ties to Venezuela to commit to new investments suggests that Turkey’s economy have really slowed down in the or even to provide relief on ex- could be contracting again. Car past few years,” said Maximilian isting debt to ease Mr. Maduro’s sales fell an annual 55 percent in Hess, a fellow at the Foreign Pol- battle with the opposition. The May, continuing a slump that to- icy Research Institute in London. Kremlin’s preference for symbol- tals 50 percent in the first five “The policies today are really ic displays of support instead of months, an industry body said on low-cost, but they get a lot of geo- long-term investments. Russian Energy Minister Alex- tries are determined to promote fahan. Iranian energy minister and means to ensure on-time imple- June 11. Sales of homes dropped ander Novak said that both Tehran cooperation. Novak gave assur- his Russian counterpart together mentation of development an annual 31 percent in May, the and Moscow are resolute to fur- ances that the current event in his- with members of the commission projects in both sides. Neces- biggest decline this year, the Turk- ther increase bilateral ties in all ar- torical city of Isfahan will help arrived in city of Isfahan on Mon- sary structures have been creat- ish Statistical Institute said on eas, particularly in economic fields develop economic and cultural day night. Earlier on Sunday, ed by the Russian government, Monday. Last week, the govern- World Bank grants where Washington has put its cooperation between the two Ardakanian in a meeting with he said, adding that all Russian ment announced a new package of weight to isolate the Islamic Re- countries. He appreciated Irani- Minister of North Caucasus Af- organizations have put on their cheap loans to industry worth 25 500- mln- USD loan public. Speaking on Monday in a an Energy Minister Reza Arda- fairs Sergei Chebotarev, said that agenda promoting relations with billion liras ($4.3 billion) in an ef- dinner banquet held in honor of dig- kanian and the head of Iran-Rus- Tehran adopted mechanism to Iran, he said. He added that Rus- fort to stimulate the economy. Such nitaries taking part in the 15th joint sia joint economic cooperation facilitate partnership between the sia is interested in exporting red unorthodox measures have been to Uzbekistan for economic cooperation meeting of commission for hosting 120- Iranian and Russian private sec- meat and crops to Iran. Russia criticised by economists for un- Iran and Russia in Isfahan, Rus- member Russian delegation. tors in a bid to help bolster eco- has voiced its determination to dercutting central bank efforts to sian Energy Minister Alexander Meanwhile, Ardakanian said that nomic ties. Meanwhile, Che- form a bloc in defiance of US’ slow inflation, which is running at economic reforms Novak acknowledged good neigh- he was pleased with hosting the botarev described political deter- unilateral economic pressures. In almost 19 percent, and to defend The World Bank has approved a World Bank country manager for borly relations and partnership of 15th joint economic cooperation mination of Iranian and Russian a most recent case of Russian the embattled lira, with higher in- 500-million-U.S.-dollar loan to Uzbekistan, said in a statement. Iran and Russia, saying both coun- meeting of Iran and Russia in Is- presidents as the most important opposition. terest rates. support Uzbekistan's ongoing "This DPO provides additional economic transformation and support as the focus of reform market reforms, aimed at increas- shifts from regulatory changes to ing jobs and the well-being of its more complex institutional re- Ukraine will not people, the bank's office in forms, which are necessary to P r ison s u n der siege as Z im ’s Uzbekistan said Monday. support private sector growth, Uzbekistan will receive the loan increase job creation, and ensure leave vicious through a Development Policy greater social inclusion of the Operation (DPO), which will most vulnerable citizens," he help sustain Uzbekistan's eco- said. The World Bank supports circle without nomic reforms to reorient the Uzbekistan through 22 projects economy towards greater private totaling over 3.6 billion dollars, HARARE – The Chikurubi Max- have drugs for… ailments like One complained the cells were Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human sector-led growth and job creation. according to the World Bank. fiscal reform imum Security Prison in Harare pneumonia and meningitis. We infested with lice and other ver- Rights (ZLHR) has condemned "Uzbekistan's wide-ranging re- Uzbekistan has been carrying out Ukraine will have to face several is crumbling at the seams, assailed need a functioning X-ray machine. min. Such conditions are com- such “deplorable” conditions forms continue, bolstered by sig- economic reforms in the last two key challenges soon: the repay- by overcrowding and a critical As of now, our machine is down mon in Zimbabwe’s 46 prisons. which it said “exposes inmates to nificant support from the coun- years to attract foreign invest- ment of foreign debts and the re- shortage of medicines, food and and yet this is a basic tool re- They were built to collectively illnesses and psychological trau- try's citizens and the internation- ment. structuring of the economy. At first other basics as the economically- quired for diagnosis,” Blessing incarcerate 14,000 prisoners, ma.” In 2013, the body said, more al community," Hideki Mori, (AP) glance, these are quite diverse tasks, crippled country battles to care Dhoropa, a doctor at the prison but hold more than 20,000 to- than 100 prisoners died of malnu- but only for a superficial examina- for its inmates. Convicts and hospital, said as lawmakers vis- day. Chikurubi’s men’s section trition-related illnesses. tion. Our government recently in- wardens alike bemoan packed ited Chikurubi last week. houses 2,508 inmates instead of At Chikurubi, donors provide life- troduced the concept of managing E a st Afr ica : D eb t , the sovereign debt of the country. cells where running water is er- AFP correspondents saw pris- the 1,360 it was designed for. saving anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs Among the main messages we hear ratic and shortages of food, oners wearing threadbare uni- “Our population is much high- for inmates who need it. “I am HIV d eficit a n d a m on et a r y that external, currency debt will be clothes and bedding prevail. Ba- forms in the prison’s male and er than we should hold,” con- positive. Drugs for HIV are avail- replaced by internal one in sic painkillers and antibiotics are female sections. Inside the cells, ceded Senior Assistant Commis- able. But other medicines, antibi- u n ion con u n d r u m in hryvnias. More expensive and impossible to come by, meaning paint flaked off some walls and sioner Alvord Gapare, who over- otics… even the painkiller parac- short debt with the help of refi- prisoners risk dying from easily- for bedding, prisoners had thin sees jails in the Harare province. etamol, are not there,” 18-year-old E A's exp a n d ed b u d get s nancing will be replaced by a long treatable conditions. “We don’t blankets on bare cement floors. – Diet ‘not suitable’ – prisoner Chiedza Chiwashira. and cheap. So far this is only a set of contradictory phrases, because East Africa's finance ministers EAC member state should keep hryvnia debt is a priori shorter and presented expansionary budgets its budget deficit at around 3 per more expensive than external one with ambitious revenue targets cent. Kenya, which unveiled a (if we are talking about real market Eu r o p e o p e n : St o c k s st a r t that are likely to be missed, lead- Ksh3 trillion ($30 billion) bud- issues). At the same time, the sim- ing to more borrowing amid rising get, is set to sink deeper into debt plification of the nature of the concerns over looming debt dis- under a proposed plan to bor- Ukrainian economy, the flattening tress. In Uganda, Matia Kasaija row $5.9 billion to cover a 5.7 of its relief and the loss of the glo- l ow e r , a l l ey e s o n ECB a n d I r a n presented a Ush40.5 trillion per cent deficit. Kenya's Trea- bal value chains by Ukraine, in- ($10.7 billion) budget, a 21 per sury Cabinet Secretary Henry cluding the strengthening of the raw Stock markets have started the speech in Sintra, Portugal at the room remained to expand quan- trade war/recession, monetary cent rise from this past year's Rotich dismissed rising concerns material character of our exports, session lower with investors opt- ECB central bank forum, could titative easing in the euro area. policy impotence, and low strike Ush32.7 trillion ($8.7 billion). To over debt sustainability. He main- will make it impossible for us to ing to stay on the sidelines as offer further clues as to how As of 0841 BST, the benchmark prices for policy puts." fund the rising budget, which is tained that the public debt, which achieve a positive trade balance in they listen in on a European Cen- much further the ECB can look Stoxx 600 wasdown by 0.31% Also dampening the mood was as a result of significant increases stands at around $50 billion, is the foreseeable future. Everything tral Bank policy conference for at monetary easing, over and to 377.30, alongside a drop of news that Washington would de- in military, public administration within sustainable levels, and that is also logical here: selling cheap possible hints on monetary poli- above the September TLTRO 0.71% to 12,000.41 for the Ger- ploy a further 1,000 troops to the and infrastructure spending, East the burden is projected to de- raw materials and semi-finished cy going forward and ahead of the program," said CMC Markets man Dax while the FTSE Mib- Middle East. In economic news, Africa's third-largest economy cline. "We shall continue to re- products on the international mar- US central bank's policy decision UK's Michael Hewson. On that tel was moving lower by 0.45% according to the European Auto- plans to borrow more from both main on the planned path of re- kets and buying more expensive the next day. "With all the focus note, speaking at the annual ECB to 20,532.51. Sentiment in eq- mobile Manufacturers' Associa- local and foreign sources. ducing the fiscal deficit in the consumer goods with a high level on the Federal Reserve it’s easy Forum in Sintra, Portugal, ECB uity markets was very bearish. tion, car sales in the European Kampala is also targeting an al- medium term in order to create of added value, as well as even to forget that the European Cen- chief Mario Drahi said that fur- According to Bank of America- Union edged higher by just 0.04% more expensive investment goods ready depleted Petroleum Fund, more fiscal space and reduce the tral Bank is facing an even bigger ther interest rate cuts remain a Merrill Lynch, its June fund against their year ago level in May and is tightening the screws on public debt," he said. The fact (means of production), we cannot a priori expect a positive trade bal- problem. With ECB President part of the ECB tool kit, that the manager survey revealed the to reach 1.44m vehicles. For later existing taxpayers to fund an 8.2 that the Kenyan government in- ance, and imports will always ex- Mario Draghi leaving at the end monetary authority remained most 'bearish' sentiment since the in the session, Eurostat was set to per cent fiscal deficit. Uganda's tends to borrow $5.9 billion from ceed exports (for example, you can of October, and the economy in committed to its price-stability global financial crisis with "pes- publish its final reading on euro fiscal deficit is significantly above international and domestic mar- calculate how much grain you need Europe floundering, today’s objective and that considerable simism driven by concerns over area consumer prices. the 3 per cent ceiling agreed with kets to fill the budget gap during to sell on the foreign market in or- the International Monetary Fund the 2019/20 financial year paints der to ensure the purchase of one in the charter for fiscal responsi- a picture of a country in a rut. locomotive and the composition of Bank of Canada says bility. Rising budget deficits across Kenya recently floated a third Eu- the grain-carrier cars that transport the region run against ongoing ef- robond in the international mar- the same grain). In addition, the forts to establish the East African kets that raised $2 billion to re- capitalization of the economy, the Nigeria:Foreigndirect investment flexible exchange Monetary Union by 2024: Each pay maturing debt. so-called internal asset. rate crucial for hasnot dropped-CentralBank inflation targeting U K in vest m en t ou t look Lagos — Contrary to reports that the period contrary to the Reu- ital flows to Nigeria, from Janu- Flexible exchange rates are a key Foreign Direct Investments ters' report." Reuters had quoted ary to May 2019 stood at $14.2 reason for the Bank of Canada’s (FDIs) into Nigeria in 2018 a World Investment Report of billion, of which FDIs account- success in hitting inflation targets in focu s a s ch a n ces of dropped by 40 per cent, the Cen- 2019, recently released by Unit- ed for $2.87 billion, represent- and will remain an important part tral Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has ed Nations Conference on Trade ing a 20.18 per cent of the total of the monetary policy frame- said that the country continues and Development (UNCTAD) amount. Furthermore, Nigerian work, a top official said on Mon- 'n o-dea l' B r exit r ise t o 6 0 pc to enjoy steady capital inflows. on FDIs to African countries. The startups had raised a total of day. Deputy Governor Lawrence In a statement the apex bank is- report alleged a decrease of over N26.640billion or $73.6 million, Schembri said the floating Cana- Economists from the British such a scenario would be slow main downside risk to the UK’s sued yesterday through its direc- 40 per cent in FDI inflows to up 800 per cent from the dian dollar had allowed Canada to Chambers of Commerce paint a and gradual for the years to come. economic outlook as the disrup- tor, Corporate Communication, Nigeria last year. But, data re- N3.240billion or $9.2 million survive tough times, in particular bleak picture of UK economic According to Johnson, should he tion caused would increase the like- Isaac Okoroafor, it said that while leased by the National Bureau of between April and June of 2018. by limiting the damage done to the growth and investment after a become the new Prime Minister, lihood of the UK's weak growth it was not privy to the method- Statistics (NBS) showed that in A total of $4.24 million was economy after the 2014 oil price possible no-deal Brexit, while a the UK will leave the EU on 31 trajectory translating into a more ology used in arriving at the fig- 2018, the total capital inflows to raised by 13 startups, mostly shock. Schembri, speaking to an KPMG survey of corporate October 2019 regardless of the pronounced deterioration in eco- ures, "we wish to state that avail- the country stood at $19.07 bil- from foreign investors, while audience in Edmonton, Alberta, did CEOs reveals a high level of opti- outcome of a possible new round nomic conditions", BCC experts able records show significant in- lion of which FDIs accounted for grants made up almost 70 per not make any reference to current mism spread across the UK's pri- of talks with Europe. He says, wrote. crease in FDIs in Nigeria during $7.78 billion. Also, the total cap- cent of the deals. interest rate policy. The bank has vate sector. As former London however, leaving with a deal Many outside experts agree the been on the sidelines since Octo- Mayor and UK Foreign Secretary would be a preferable option, but main risk posed by "hard Brexit" ber, and analysts do not expect it Boris Johnson holds a solid lead the deal that's currently on the is a high degree of uncertainty in move again this year. The Bank of in the ongoing race for the next table will not do. In this light, the immediate aftermath of such Jet Airwayslenderstogotobankruptcycourt Canada, in coordination with the Prime Minister, the business BCC analysts say UK invest- an event. For example, it remains federal finance ministry, sets an community expressed contradic- ment could drop to its slowest unclear if the EU would impose Lenders to crippled Jet Airways than $1 billion, said after a meet- lenders have decided to seek res- inflation target every five years, tory assessments of the future of in a decade closer to the end of tariffs and duties on the British said Monday they would start ing in Mumbai that only one olution under (the) IBC since with the latest review set to be the UK economy. Johnson says this year. The last two months imports and exports, and how the bankruptcy court proceedings “conditional” offer has been re- only a conditional bid was re- completed in late 2021. That tar- the UK could leave the EU with- of this year, experts say, could, cross-Channel movement of peo- after failing to find someone to ceived for Jet Airways. That is ceived,” the lenders said in a get has been 2% for the last 23 out a deal this year, adding uncer- therefore, become the most tur- ple and capitals would be regulat- take over the Indian carrier. Once believed to have come from Abu statement. They added the bid- years, which the bank has largely tainty to the nation's investment bulent period for UK investment. ed. Experts believe the UK is in- India’s biggest private airline, Jet Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, der had sought “exemptions” on achieved. “While the inflation tar- outlook. According to a new re- Some experts say the odds of a sufficiently prepared for a "no- stopped operating in April after which already had a 24 percent pricing from the Security and get gets most of the attention, our port from the British Chambers "hard Brexit" have now risen to deal" divorce, despite Johnson hav- it ran out of cash and its planes stake in Jet. The creditors, led Exchange Board of India, the flexible exchange rate is a critical of Commerce (BCC), a 'no deal' as high as 60 per cent – up from ing said that Britain must actively were grounded. Doubts have by State Bank of India, said the market regulator, which was component of the framework and Brexit would hurt UK investment roughly 30 per cent earlier this prepare now for the least desirable mounted since over whether the meeting decided to turn to India’s only possible under the insol- is necessary for its success,” said this year. BCC experts believe re- year. "A messy and disorderly outcome. carrier will fly again. The airline’s insolvency and bankruptcy code vency code. Schembri. covery from the consequences of exit from the EU remains the (Spuntak) creditors, who are owed more (IBC). “After due deliberations, (AP) (AP) WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Lionsgate Eyes 'Hunger Games' Movie Box office-busting Avengers: stood again to tell this story," said Prequel Endgame dominated the MTV Lifetime network executive Brie Movie and TV Awards Monday, Miranda Bryant. The docu-series With Suzanne Collins planning a as Captain Marvel star Brie Lar- has led Chicago prosecutors to May 2020 release of a sequel son led tributes to real-life hero- publicly seek out potential vic- novel, the studio is working ines by ceding the spotlight to tims of R&B star Kelly, who has "closely with her on the movie." her stunt doubles. Endgame, the pleaded not guilty to felony sex Lionsgate is eyeing a Hunger second-highest grossing film of crime charges. "This isn't just a Games prequel movie as trilogy all time, picked up the best mov- trophy to us because this really writer Suzanne Collins has a new ie award, as well as best hero for speaks to the important cultural novel set for release in May 2020. Robert Downey Jr's Iron Man impact that this generated from "As the proud home of the and best villain for Josh Brolin this documentary," Bryant add- Hunger Games movies, we can as Thanos. Oscar-winner Larson ed. US actor Noah Centineo ac- hardly wait for Suzanne’s next added to the superheroes' haul cepts the award for Best Break- book to be published. We’ve been by picking up the best fight through Performance for To All communicating with her during Now that Men in Black: Interna- ing a certain amount of confusion, the edge. At one point, stars Tes- rious. The studio did not stand award, praising her stunt work- the Boys I’ve Loved Before dur- the writing process and we look tional has been released, the dust as well as stripping away what sa Thompson and Chris Hem- by him. “The studio was an ab- ers as the "living embodiment of ing the 2019 MTV Movie & TV forward to continuing to work is starting to clear on its troubled some considered the more mod- sworth ‘hired their own dialogue sentee landlord. They were no- Captain Marvel" as she brought Awards. ( AFP ) closely with her on the movie,” production. A new report says that ern sensibilities,” the report writers’ to work with them on set. where to be found,” one insider them up on stage. Joanna Ben- Newcomer Noah Centineo Joe Drake, chairman of the Lion- producer Walter Parkes frequent- quotes a source as saying. Origi- “It wasn’t a Dark Phoenix situa- is quoted as saying. Men in nett and Renae Moneymaker, was the night's biggest individual sgate Motion Picture Group, said ly clashed with director F Gary nal writers Art Marcum and Matt tion,” the studio source said, mak- Black: International opened to who also trained Larson for the winner, scooping awards for Monday in a statement. Scholas- Gray, who attempted to depart Holloway were present on set, ing a reference to a similar situa- the worst weekend figures of the first female-led Marvel Studios/ breakthrough performance and tic plans to release a new Hunger the project on several occasions. and the report quotes sources as tion on Fox’s X-Men film, which series, and to the worst reviews. Disney superhero film, said it best kiss alongside Lana Condor Games novel next year, a prequel The Hollywood Reporter says saying that their script was well saw significant behind-the-scenes It holds a 24% score on Rotten was an "honour" to work on the for Netflix teen romance film To set 64 years before the start of that Parkes, a longtime series pro- liked. “Early drafts of the script drama. But, ‘Gray tried to exit the Tomatoes, and has so far made film and "be a part of bringing All The Boys I've Loved Before. the original Hunger Games novel ducer and a confidante of Steven were described as being edgier and production several times but was $103 million against a $110 mil- such a strong female character to But it was a disappointing series and timed for the reaping Spielberg’s, held final cut on the more timely, tying the story to convinced to stay by the studio’. lion budget. Previous entries, star- life." A wide-ranging awards night for Game of Thrones, which of the Tenth Hunger Games. film, and demanded significant re- the current debate surrounding Gray has previously delivered ring Will Smith and Tommy Lee show also paid tribute to wom- won best show but lost out in A Hunger Games prequel has writes on the film. “New pages immigration,” the report says, but major hits such as Straight Outta Jones, made a combined total of en beyond Hollywood such as three other categories. The epic long been talked about. arrived daily for the actors, caus- Parkes’ rewrites took off a lot of Compton and The Fate of the Fu- $1.6 billion. trailblazing Supreme Court Jus- fantasy's final season was widely tice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the panned by critics and audiences. subject of documentary RBG, The MTV Movie and TV Awards who won a new category for best have been taking a sideways look Mental Hai Kya motion poster: A real-life hero. And in the at Hollywood since 1992, honour- evening's most poignant mo- ing films and their actors with ment, victims of sexual abuse "golden popcorn" statuettes. The murder has been committed and Kangana were honoured by the producers nominees are decided by produc- of Surviving R Kelly, which won ers and MTV executives, while best documentary. "Survivors the winners are chosen by the Ranaut, Rajkummar are suspects walked through the fire and then public, who vote online. Actors?Rajkummar Rao and Kan- gana Ranaut’s Mental Hai Kya prepares to release on July 26. Ahead of it, the makers of the film has released a new motion picture, which tells us a little more than is known about the film. Phategi' Trailer: Also read: Sania Mirza slams actor Veena Malik’s accusations about her son, adds ‘I am not Pak A crazy, mad fun ride! team’s dietician, teacher or moth- er’ The motion poster opens with Anushka Rajkummar holding a cigarette in his mouth. He is in a blue and white semi western formals and Sharma looks intently at the camera. Soon, we see Kangana in the frame, seated on a table next to could play him. She too has a blue dress on, her curled short crop draws at- tention, as much as her severe a cop in expression. Soon, many things inside the room soon start burn- next film ing, including a laptop and the window panes. We also get to star Anushka Shar- know that there will be a murder by the makers in the past have makers of Super 30 shifted their and toxic mental violence this ma is known for choosing a script in the film and that there will be certainly piqued the interest of the release date to avoid a needless would cause. Despite the film be- that stands out, which is evident two suspects, namely Rajkum- audience. Earlier this year, the film clash. Hrithik issued a statement ing ready, I have requested my throughout the course of her 11- mar and Kangana. Nothing much was in news after it came to light in May, saying: “I have decided producers to shift and announce year career. Now, according to was known about Kangana’s that Mental Hai Kya and Hrithik to shift the release date of my the next suitable date as soon as reports, the Zero actor may soon Mental Hai Kya. However, the Roshan’s Super 30 were to clash film ‘Super 30’ in order to save possible.” be seen in a new cop drama, ac- quirky posters and stills released on the box office. However, the myself from the personal trauma (Sky Sport) cording to DNA. The details about the project are currently under wraps – such as who will be the director and producer – Sunny Deol confirms he didn’t speak to but the film is said to be on a hard-hitting subject and will showcase Anushka in a whole new look. And it seems like the Shah Rukh Khan for 16 years after Darr mysterious new project is a win- ALTBalaji is one of the pioneers Tusshar Kapoor and Mallika ning role for the actor, who is in the web world. After deliver- Sherawat are making their digital Actor Sunny Deol in an appear- Rukh Khan as well. My only is- said to be on a constant look out ing many hit shows of different debut with the web-series. ance on Aap Ki Adalat, hosted sue with the film was that I did of good quality scripts. Kareena genre, they are ready to spook The web series revolves by Rajat Sharma, has said that he not know they would glorify the Kapoor, Aamir Khan to report- and tickle your funny bones with around a group of friends who get didn’t speak to Shah Rukh Khan villain. I always work in films with edly star in ‘Forrest Gump’ Bol- a horror comedy web-series together at an isolated resort. for 16 years after their much pub- an open heart and believe the per- lywood remake “Anushka is Booo Sabki Phategi. The makers What soon follows them is a mys- licised tiff on the sets of the 1993 son. I believe working with trust. constantly looking for quality have released the trailer of the tery as they soon discover that film Darr. Sunny said that peo- Unfortunately, we have many ac- scripts and it seems like she has series and it seems nothing less each one of them has a secret from ple on set were afraid of him, ‘be- tors and stars who don’t function found a brilliant one that will see than an absolute laugh riot with their past which is revealed. What cause they were wrong’. In an in this manner. Maybe that’s the her play the role of a woman elements of horror. The web- is planned to be a joyous roman- earlier press interaction, he had way they want to get their star- series has a stellar star cast which tic night takes a turn for the worse said that he was never told that dom.” Sunny had disagreements police officer,” says an unnamed source to DNA, adding, “This is includes Tusshar Kapoor, Mal- due to some happenings in the Shah Rukh’s character - an ob- with director Yash Chopra as well. the first time she will be seen in lika Sherawat, Sanjay Mishra, resort. It's set to be one show sessive stalker - would be glori- He had told Filmfare in an inter- this avatar as she will don the Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Shar- that's sure going to keep the audi- fied in the film. He said, “At the view then, “I’ll never work with khaki. The project is extremely da, Shefali Jariwala Sakshi ences gripped. end of the day, people loved me Yash Chopra again. He isn’t a man close to her heart.” The actor has Pradhan, Shweta Gulati among All episodes of 'Booo Sabki in the film. They loved Shah of his words. been seen in some big Bollywood others. 'Booo Sabki Phategi' has Phategi' will be available from numbers as of late. been directed by Farhad Samji. 27th June, on ALTBalaji app! Rajamouli's next, 'RRR' is a hit even before the completion! India's most awaited upcoming Kabir Singh song Tera film, RRR, an SS Rajamouli di- rectorial has broken all records Ban Jaunga shows among the movies by raking high Kiara Advani’s meek on overseas theatrical rights with a whopping amount of 70 Crores. Preeti falling in love According to the sources from the industry, the makers of RRR with Shahid Kapoor’s were on a huge bankroll with over- dominating hero seas theatrical rights of worth approximately 70 Crores fetched The new Kabir Singh song from Phars Films, an overseas film Tera Ban Jaunga shows how distribution house. The movie Kiara’s Preeti falls in love has been made on an estimated with Shahid Kapoor’s budget of 300 crores. The inter- character in the film. esting insight about RRR is that A new song Tera Ban Jaunga from shows how Kiara’s meek char- this Kabir comes up with a catchy the movie's team has completed Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Ad- acter, Preeti, falls in love with answer, “I like the way you the film's first schedule and the vani’s upcoming film Kabir Singh Shahid’s titular character Kabir breathe”. Hard to beat that one. team is working on the film's sec- is out and adds to the romantic Singh. Sung by Tulsi Kumar and Shahid comes out as a possessive, ond schedule, now. fighters of the year 1920, Alluri British Raj. The story is a fic- which are already getting the fans jukebox from the film including Akhil Sachdeva, the song begins aggressive boyfriend who doesn’t The film deals with a fiction- Sitarama Raju and Komaram tional retelling of their lives be- excited. Once the movie is set to numbers such as Kaise Hua, with Preeti asking Kabir the most mind beating up the boys who al story revolving around freedom Bheem who fought against the fore they became public figures release in theatres. Mere Sohneya and Pehla Pyaar commonly asked question, bother his girlfriend and stands that are already out. This one “What do you like in me?” To on stage as she gives a speech. WEDNESDAY .JUNE 19, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES GBhurdler Andrew Pozzi impresses in DiamondLeagueinRabat Jarrell Miller's team are yet to be contacted about a potential heavyweight fight with Tyson Fury, says his co-promoter Dmi- triy Salita. The New Yorker at- tended Fury's second round stop- page win over Tom Schwarz in Las Vegas at the weekend and has been linked with a future fight against the former world champi- on. But Miller's future remains unclear after he missed out on a world title fight with Anthony Joshua due to a failed drug test and Salita is yet to receive an offi- cial approach about Fury. Salita told Sky Sports: "Jarrell is one of the biggest names in the heavy- Andrew Pozzi was in good spir- flag. Brazil's Gabriel Constantino weight division. With him being its after an impressive second was third. "I'm really pleased with at the Tyson Fury fight, I under- in a calamitous 110m hurdles my run in Rabat," said Pozzi who stand that speculation of that race at the Diamond League had Shubenkov sprawling over the match is natural, but there have meeting in Morocco. The 27- line in front of him after the Rus- not been any discussions regard- year-old Sky Sports Scholar sian was clattered into by Jamai- ing a fight with Tyson Fury. admitted to be "rusty" after can world and Olympic champi- "When the time is right, with the kicking off his Diamond League on Omar McLeod. "My prepara- personality of both fighters, it will campaign with sixth in China in tion has been really tough since be one of the biggest fights and May. Having moved last year Rome so I'm delighted to get most exciting promotions in box- to Italy to link up with Cuban through this race in Morocco. "I ing." Fury had revealed two dates coach Santiago Antunez, Pozzi wasn't able to push as much as for his next fight, then plans to is working his way back to full normal and had to be very cau- pursue a rematch with WBC fitness and he produced a solid tious but it shows me I'm in really champion Deontay Wilder after display in Rabat on Sunday good shape and things are going they battled to a draw in Decem- night. He clocked 13.30 seconds, well. "I am looking forward to get- ber. "We have got September 21 0.18s behind Russia's 2015 ting back into training and build- or October 5 for my next fight world champion Sergey Shuben- ing on this performance in the Di- and then, next year. Tyson Fury expects to fight again in September or October kov - competing under a neutral amond League." (Sky Sport) Scotland move up to Johanna eighth in International JonGruden's Kontaeases Netball Federation Oakland past Anett Rankings rankings Raiders Kontaveit in tofeature Birmingham on'Hard The British No 1 will face Jelena Ostapenko or qualifier Iga Swiatek in Knocks' the second round The Oakland Raiders will feature play in the first International Se- have no shortage of story lines on the latest season of "Hard ries game at the Tottenham with former Super Bowl-winning Johanna Konta breezed past and play either compatriot Eka- Knocks" as fans will get a be- Hotspur Stadium against the coach and former ESPN analyst Anett Kontaveit 6-4 6-2 in her terina Alexandrova or Croatia's hind-the-scenes look at Jon Chicago Bears on October 6, Gruden leading the way. Wide re- first match on grass to reach the Petra Martic. The British No 2 Gruden's team. TV network were one of five teams who ceiver Antonio Brown, acquired second round at the Nature Val- Heather Watson suffered a third HBO and the NFL announced on could have been chosen to fea- this offseason from the Pittsburgh ley Classic in Birmingham. The straight first-round defeat against Tuesday that the Raiders will be ture - along with the Detroit Li- Steelers, will aim to improve the British No 1 was taking to court the world No 51 Barbora Stry- Scotland have moved up to eighth eighth in the world by 2019 at showcased in the 14th edition of ons, San Francisco 49ers, New quality of the team as Oakland look for the first time since reaching cova. Watson won the first set in the International Netball Feder- the start of our last strategic plan the series in what is expected to York Giants, and Washington to bounce back from a 4-12 sea- the semi-finals of the French convincingly and things might ation Rankings, with Northern Ire- back in 2015, and it is testament be their final season in the Bay Redskins - and will make their son. Team owner Mark Davis said: Open and quickly adapted to the have panned out differently had land shifting back to ninth. The lat- to the hard work, dedication and Area before the franchise moves first appearance on the show. "Everybody wants to be a Raider. surface. Kontaveit is ranked just she taken advantage of being 0- est set of rankings, reflecting expertise of the entire Netball to Las Vegas. Oakland, who will The five-episode series will Now they'll find out. two places lower than the world 40 up in the first game of the matches played since the March Scotland performance team, pro- number 18 but the British player second, but Strycova fought hard 3, sees the Scottish Thistles gramme and players that we have competed at a high level through- to turn things around. Watson, progress to their highest ever rank- realised this goal," said Claire out. Konta wrapped up victory who is looking climb back to- ing following a recent Test match Nelson, CEO of Netball Scotland. in an hour and 12 minutes. She wards the top 100, saved four against Gibraltar. Gail Parata's out- "With world netball now more ShakibAlHasan'sunbeatencenturyleads broke her opponent twice in each match points at 5-3 in the decid- fit secured 62-33 win over their competitive than ever it is imper- set and never faced a break point ing set but Strycova served it out opponents as they continue their ative that we continue to build Bangladeshtoseven-wicket winover West Indies on her own serve. After a career- for a 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory. In a preparations for the forthcoming on our recent successes as we best clay court season, the signs jam-packed draw, the two top- Vitality Netball World Cup in Liv- strive to become one of our Shakib Al Hasan's second con- are there that the 28-year-old ranked players in the world erpool. The Scottish Thistles are sport's top netballing nations." secutive World Cup century pro- could mount of real charge on the Naomi Osaka and Ashleigh Bar- housed in Group D alongside En- Gail Parata has announced the pelled Bangladesh to their high- grass over the coming weeks. She ty will take to court against Mar- gland's Vitality Roses, Uganda and Scottish Thistles squad for Ju- est successful ODI chase as they will face either Jelena Ostapenko ia Sakkari and Donna Vekic re- Samoa in the Preliminaries Stage ly's Netball World Cup, with defeated the West Indies by sev- or qualifier Iga Swiatek in the sec- spectively on Tuesday. Venus One. They will commence their Claire Maxwell captaining the en wickets. Set 322 for victory, ond round. The fourth-seed Elina Williams, who took a wildcard campaign on the opening day side. Elsewhere in the rankings, Shakib - the No 1 ODI all-round- Svitolina did not fare as well as to enter, will meet Aliaksandra against Samoa, with every match Fiji's win over Singapore sees er in the world, brought up his Konta and instead fell at the hands Sasnovich whilst Britain's Har- of the competition being shown live them move up one position to hundred off only 83 balls and fin- of Margarita Gasparyan 6-3 3-6 riet Dart faces Yulia Putintseva. on Sky Sports. "We set ourselves 13th place and Zimbabwe drop ished unbeaten on 124 having 6-4. Gasparyan will continue on (Sky Sport) the ambitious target of reaching to 14th. shared an unbroken 189-run third wicket stand with Liton Das (94no), as Bangladesh reached their target with 51 balls spare. Earlier, Shai Hope struck 96, Evan Lewis contributed 70 and Sir MichaelStoutekeenonMustashry Shimron Hetmyer blasted 50 off weren't as surprised as I was and only 25 balls as the West Indies they see him every day. If he runs made 321-8 but their bowlers to that level again he's the one to were unable to defend what beat, but it was Laurens' first run should have been a challenging and there are other good horses target. The win moves Bang- in there." Karl Burke's Laurens ladesh up to fifth in the table, was a star against her own sex with five points from five match- the striker's stumps, saw Tamim le was punished when Moham- and age last season, but in two es, while the West Indies move run out for 48. Though Mush- mad Saifuddin lured the opener runs against the boys, she has so down to seventh after a third loss fiqur was caught behind for a into poking at a ball that was mov- far failed to win. However, she from five games. Soumya Sarkar single off Oshane Thomas, Liton ing away from him and a thin edge was making her seasonal debut in and Tamim Iqbal made an as- - on his World Cup debut - bat- was snaffled behind the stumps. the Lockinge and was just over sured start to the chase before ted with ease and a calm head, Hope and Lewis did a brilliant job two lengths behind Mustashry in the former guided Andre Russell seeing Shakib bring up his hun- of reviving the West Indies' innings second. Her jockey PJ McDonald to straight to Chris Gayle at slip dred - having hit 13 fours at that despite doing so at a relatively is searching for a first Royal win- to end the first wicket stand on stage. As Bangladesh edged clos- slow rate, sharing a vital 116-run ner in the first of eight Qipco 52. Opener Tamim and all-round- er to their target Liton let loose, second-wicket partnership before British Champions Series races er Shakib batted with freedom smoking Shannon Gabriel for the latter sliced Shakib (2-54) to run this week. "She's come out of and without much trouble as they three successive sixes, and the long-off. Nicholas Pooran (25), Ja- the Lockinge well and we couldn't built a 69-run second-wicket batsman ended match by pull- son Holder (33 off 15 balls) and be much happier going into the partnership but Sheldon Cot- ing the fast bowler away for Darren Bravo (19) all added vital Sir Michael Stoute admits he is first top-level win last time out Al Maktoum's racing manager An- race. She looks amazing, feels trell's spectacular reaction, pick- four. The West Indies had been contributions but it was Hetmy- "hopeful" about the chances of in the Lockinge, with several gus Gold added: "It surprised me amazing and is going into Ascot ing up the ball after it was de- put in to bat and an increasingly er's 25-ball half-century that pro- Mustashry securing a second who finished behind him at how easily he won the Lockinge. as well, if not better, than when fended back to him before hitting regular slow start for Chris Gay- pelled his side past 300. Group One win in Tuesday's Newbury taking him on again. "I "He's had so many niggling prob- she has gone into any of her pre- Queen Anne Stakes at Royal As- was thrilled with him in the Lock- lems down the years. Some don't vious races," said McDonald. cot. The mile event kicks off the inge and his preparations have come back from that mentally, but "It's very competitive and she's four-day meeting in Berkshire and gone fine," said Stoute. "He is he's got the right attitude. He's a taking on the boys again. She will an open field of 16 is set to go to impervious to ground conditions fine, big horse and some of those have to find a bit with Sir Micha- US Open 2019: Remembered for post. Mustashry, kept in training which is very handy, and we are (problems) might have been down el Stoute's horse (Mustashry) and as a six-year-old, finally landed a hopeful." Owner Sheikh Hamdan to immaturity."Sir Michael's team it wouldn't surprise. the right reasons at Pebble Beach incident at Oakmont a year later where Dustin Johnson and Shane Charltonunabletoreachacontract agreement withLeeBowyer Lowry did not know who was Charlton Athletic have been unable to reach an agreement with manager Lee Bowyer winning during the final round. Erin regarding the extension of his contract. Bowyer's deal expires on June 30 and the club Hills was not up to the challenge were hopeful they could extend the former Premier League midfielder's stay after he of holding a major championship, secured promotion back to the Championship in their play-off win over Sunderland. while Shinnecock Hills, one of However, according to a statement released on Monday, the club's offer of a one- America's great courses, was left year extension and a salary three times what he was given in his last pay increase in almost unplayable on the Satur- September was rejected. The statement read: "The fact the club is for sale has not day last year. The USGA used to helped with finding an agreement. The current owner needs to take into account that be obsessed with level par being a new owner may want to appoint his own manager. "However, this concern did not the winning total and that really stop the current owner proposing a contract extension of one year to Lee Bowyer, does not matter, whereas this even though the club may be sold in a few weeks. Under those circumstances, a week they left the golf course After several controversy-affected US Opens in recent years, Ewen alone and let the challenge be Peb- multi-year extension would not be good business practice." Controversial owner Murray gives his verdict on an entertaining week at Pebble Beach. Roland Duchatelet had recently admitted his frustration over delays in securing a ble Beach itself. The course was Relive the final round of the US Open as it happened at Pebble fair as it penalised poor shots and buyer for the Championship club, blaming high stadium renting costs as one of the Beach. I'm very thankful to have the US Open back, as it has been reasons as to why he was struggling to find a buyer. The owner went on to explain rewarded really good shots, as the lost in controversy over the past few years. They were all incidents greens were firm enough for that. the reasoning behind Bowyer's rejection: "The owner understands Lee's point of that the USGA did not need and had to avoid a repeat of this week. view, because many Championship clubs pay huge amounts. You have to let the golfers play Chambers Bay in 2015 was a golfing disaster, then we had the and when you give them the stage. WEDNESDAY. JUNE 19.2019 -Jawza 29, 1398 H.S Vol:XI Issue No:313 Price: Afs.20

2 Giant Buddhas Angry relat ives Russia warns US Tehran, Moscow Lionsgate protest against Bihar Jarrell Miller’s Survived 1,500 over extra troop Walking into vow to increase Eyes co-promoter has Years. Fragments, CM Nit ish Kumar ‘Hunger outside Muzaffarpur deployment to economic ties Games’ not held talks about Graffiti and a hospital as Afghanistan despite US Tyson Fury fight Hologram Remain. Middle East Movie encephalitis toll rises pressures Prequel

The Solutions Strategy for and implementing solutions for Repatriation Syed Hussain Alemi Afghan Refugees (SSAR), a Afghan refugees. At a meeting Balkhi and Iranian Deputy multi-year regional initiative, has in Islamabad, the Quadripartite Minister of Interior Hossein been extended to 2021, officials Steering Committee (Q-4) Zolfaghari. Indrika Ratwatte, say. SSAR aims to help facilitate reiterated its call for joint director of the UNHCR Regional the voluntary return and advocacy and resource Bureau for Asia and the Pacific, AT News Report and combat. The ongoing battle districts. Mr. Labib, director of their homes. Takhar, in the north sustainable reintegration of mobilisation to support the was also in attendance. in Namak Ab, Ishkamish and refugee directorate in the province, of the country shares border with refugees, as well as providing implementation of the strategy. The international community KABUL: Clashes between Baharak districts deteriorated noted that a team was tasked to Tajikistan, is an insecure assistance to host countries. Chaired by Pakistan’s Minister was urged to support host government forces and Taliban security situations and safety of survey conditions of the displaced province, where insurgents Afghan, Pakistani, Iranian for States and Frontier Regions countries and communities and have displaced thousands of families in the districts and people. He expected the number mainly the Taliban conduct large and UN officials agreed on Shehryar Khan Afridi, the provide development assistance to people in the northeastern Takhar pushed civilians out of their of refugees would rise as the battle scale attacks. Across the country, Monday to retain SSAR as a meeting was attended by Afghan end future displacement of province, said local officials. homes. The displaced people dragged on. Three months ago, bloody combat between the valid framework for identifying Minister of Refugees and Afghans. (Pajhwok) Mohammad Yasin Labib, sought refuge in the provincial conflict forced around three insurgents and the government director of provincial department capital, Taluqan city. Two weeks thousands to flee their houses in security forces pushes thousand of refugees, said Tuesday that as ago, battle over Ishkamish Dashti Qala district of the of Afghans out of their homes. In many as three thousand people district was kicked off and two province. The conflict caused total, as many as 1.5 million were displaced in three districts days ago, large scale assault destruction of houses and residents people are internally displaced in of the province due to the violence began in Namak Ab and Baharak of the district were pushed out of the country.

KABUL: The Afghanistan Journalists and Media Federation (AJMF) on Tuesday accused head of the Journalist Support Fund (JSF) of discrimination, demanding change in the fund leadership. A number of AJMF members today organized a press conference about internal problems and discrimination in JSF. Fahim Dashti, head of Afghanistan’s National Journalists Union and a leading member of JSF, said he had talked with the president about creation of the fund two years ago for assisting journalists. “More than 50 journalists and families of martyred media workers, injured and those who had incurable diseases were assisted during the last one year, while only six journalists were assisted during the last six years,” he said. (Pajhwok)

MUMBAI: The Chabahar port to visiting journalist from relations with China and the US in the Persian Gulf is an Afghanistan. He said India was the but under SAARC, Afghanistan appropriate tool of expanding second largest trade partner of was its fifth largest trade partner. trade ties between Afghanistan and Afghanistan after Pakistan. The He noted Afghanistan and Indian India, an official said on Tuesday. EXIM Bank has provided $7 enjoyed historic political, Debasish Mallik, deputy head of million assistance to Afghanistan economic and social links that could Indian’s EXIM Bank, said this in in recent years, he recalled. Mallik be further strengthened through the Mumbai where he was speaking added India enjoyed great trade Chabahar port. KABUL: The Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD) on Tuesday signed contracts of nine projects worth 312 million afghanis with local development councils. Mujib Rahman Karimi, rural KABUL: President Ashraf Ghani credible and transparent UK’s support for these efforts. rehabilitation and development has met British Prime Minister presidential vote. They also discussed the UK’s minister, while signing the Theresa May and discussed the On regional stability, May continued development assistance contracts, said the projects would upcoming presidential election. welcomed the steps toward for Afghanistan, with May cost a total of 312 million afghanis May hosted Ghani in peace in Afghanistan that Ghani highlighting additional and would be implemented in Downing Street, her has taken, as well as his talks humanitarian support over the next Kunar, Kapisa, Logar, Khost, spokesperson said, adding the with Pakistan Prime Minister five years to help Afghans in urgent Jawzjan, Kandahar and Zabul two sides agreed on the need for a Imran Khan. She reiterated the need of food, water and medicine. provinces.

TIRINKOT: Tirinkot city of few days. lockdown after a clash occurred under control and the protestors central Uruzgan province was put On day two, hundreds of between Police chief Col. Khitab were in talks with local officials. on lockdown after a physical and protesting Uruzgan residents Khanjari and protestors at around Mohammad Qasim, one of verbal clash occurred between urged the government to release 5:00pm today (Tuesday). the protestors, told Pajhwok protestors and police those individuals who had They claimed still a number of after the verbal clash with police, headquarters on Tuesday protected the province from armed protestors had taken a number of other protesting afternoon. Police have arrested Taliban militants. positions in some parts of the city. people from other areas also dozens of individuals, including Eyewitness told Pajhwok However, the governor’s entered the city to share their former deputy police chief, during Afghan News the Tirinkot city, house wrote on its Facebook page demands. He said the government clearing operations over the past the provincial capital, was on that the situation in the city was has detained innocent people.

Afghan siblings Yasin, 22, Taibe, 20, and Ehsan Abbasi, 16, around midnight would be exported from Istanbul to Kabul. Hafiz Wali Rahimi, head of the Physical Education and Sports The Norwegian government must Moratti, Amnesty siblings from the communities Directorate and head of the immediately halt the deportation International’s Deputy Director where they have lived for more than National Olympic Committee, of a 16-year-old boy and his two for Europe said. The young seven years and deporting them has been summoned by the siblings back to Afghanistan Afghans were deported from alone to a warzone is an Attorney General's Office where they will be at grave risk of Norway to Istanbul on Saturday unconscionable abuse of power,” (AGO) over charges of misuse of serious human rights violations, together with their mother. Due Moratti said. “Afghanistan is not his authority. Amnesty International said on to her health condition, their a safe country for returns, and if This comes days after the Monday. mother is expected to be returned this heartless and unnecessary Attorney General's Office issued Uprooting these three young to Norway, but the children are deportation is completed it will an arrest warrant for former head siblings from the communities and in danger of being flown to Kabul split the family, endanger these of Afghanistan Football deporting them alone to a imminently, according to three young people’s live and rob Federation Keramuddim Karim warzone is an unconscionable Amnesty International. them of their futures,” he said. over sexual abuse of female abuse of power, Massimo “Uprooting these three young (TOLONews) players. (TOLONews)