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By Farhad Naibkhel scholarships and employment in the ministry. Lawmaker Fawzia KABUL: Members of the Wolesi Kofi “the biggest problem created Jirga (Lower House) of Parliament by the National Unity on Monday blamed Ministry of Government is not economic or Interior for discrimination in a letter insecurity challenges, but political MAZAR-I-SHARIF : British released regarding recruitment of corruption (discrimination).” She teacher Robert Sampson says if public order police and asked for said that creating rifts among esolute Support Commander General John Nicholson the world reads Pashtu poetry reformation. people by the NUG is the most sends out a serious warning on Monday to the they will understand the Afghans A letter released by the dangerous challenges and will Taliban to lay down their arms and join the peace hate war and love peace. ministry, shared in social media in affect more Afghans and The 60-year-old teaches which it said that a list of Hazara, Afghanistan. She said that a process. English and science at a university Uzbek, Pashtoon and other nations commission must be established to in Peshawar, the capital of except Tajik officers should be assess the Presidential Palace, Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa created for an anti-riot detachment Sapidar Palace, Ministries of Commander of US-Forces in Taliban to lay down their arms, join in Kabul. The parliamentarian Interior, Foreign Affairs, Afghanistan General John peace process and ensure better life province, and is co-translator of “The Poetry of Rahman Baba - criticized that why the ministry Administrative Affairs to find out Nicholson said a well-planned raid for their families and children in has mentioned in the letter except about that how much the against drug producing facilities society. “We the US, the coalition Poet of the Pashtuns”, a more than 900 pages long volume. Tajik, so it means a clear constitution law considered in the was carried out in Helmand on forces are with you in the fight discrimination. But at the same formation, hiring and firing in these Sunday and that for the first time against the terrorists, your enemies The teacher, who visited Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of time, the ministry in its official organs. Besides rejecting the an F-22 bomber was used in are our enemies,” he said. An F22 page said that it had already had discrimination, caretaker interior combat in Afghanistan. “We used was used in Sunday's raid on a drug northern Balkh province, talked about his translation work on enough Tajik officers for the anti- minister Wais Ahmad Barmak an F22 Raptor aircraft that can producing facility in Helmand riot detachment, thus it was rejected existence of discrimination carry 250lbs bombs and hits direct Nicholson also said a B-52 was Rahman Baba’s poetry and Pashtu poetry with Pajhwok Afghan mistakenly mentioned except Tajik in the ministry and called allegation targets … in the attack on a drug used in Sunday night’s raid and in the letter. The ministry rejects baseless. processing factory in Musa Qala, completely leveled one drug News in an interview. question about the UN’s report on completely rejected by the Afghan Fluent in Pashtu, Robert any kind of discrimination in Pointing to the letter, he said Helmand (on Sunday night). F22 producing compound. The US recruitment of officers. that it was a written mistake, who Raptor aircrafts were used for the commander stated that President the surge in civilian casualties in people. "Hunting down and killing Sampson said he leant Pashtu from Afghanistan, he said: “We take any their leaders will not stop" but his students in Peshawar. “All my “The letter regarding hire of was punished. first time in Afghanistan,” he said. Donald Trump’s new war strategy officers is a clear sign of He said that for the anti-riot He made it clear that Afghan and will bring renewed pressure on the allegations about civilian causalities Daesh continues an aggressive students were Pashtuns, so I very seriously and we will recruiting program, he said. believed it was necessary to learn discrimination which is against detachment, we have hired enough US forces will continue attacking Taliban and their safe havens as constitution and Sharia,” said Tajiks all ready, in order to consider drug producing and trafficking the approach was a conditions investigate it seriously.” He said Nicholson said the fight will this language. When my students that US-Forces are doing continue against Daesh until its would talk to each other in Pashtu, Member of the Wolesi Jirga Aref presence of other nations for the operations, and promised the based strategy rather than a time- Rahmani. He said that this letter detachment we such a letter Afghan people that they will not bound policy. “The new US everything possible to avoid complete elimination. But said that I would try to understand, learn civilian casualties during their that there is no sign of Daesh and it had a great fun.” must be prosecuted to find the released. only stand by the country in the strategy on Afghanistan is reason behind the issuance of such He assured all people that the fight against terrorism but will also conditions based not time bound, operations. He stated that Daesh fighters from Syria or Iraq He said he leant Pashtu in remains the number one target in migrating to Afghanistan. cooperation and friendship with letter. He claimed that there is no ministry will remain a national stand by them in the fight against which means we will eliminate discrimination against Afghan all organ and presence of all nation drugs. He reiterated the call to the terrorists until the end.” In a Afghanistan and that this group is (ToloNews) his students. “I loved listening to Pasthu poetry and proverbs and I nations in the constitution, but we will be considered seriously in noticed the Pashtuns using poetry are witnessed of discrimination in police crew. of Rahman Baba in their common conversation.” He said it had been amazing to him how an illiterate Pashtun could use such a huge amount of poetry in his ordinary talks. “It further strengthened my resolve to learn Pashtu, so I decided to study Rahman Baba work, which caused me to fall in love with Pashtu poetry.” Robert Sampson said the Rahman Baba poetry had a great AT News Report impact on him and by translating his work, he wanted the same KABUL: At least 42 militants impact on all the British people. were killed and 17 others were He said another teacher based wounded in different crackdowns HERAT CITY : Iran has deported children had gone to Iran for work. the east and south and they lacked in Peshawar, Momin Khan, had within past 24 hours. at least 1,000 Afghan refugee “The deported children include resources to transfer the children In a press release issued here, co-translated the Rahman Baba’s children into western Herat and some of those whose families are to their own areas. poetry. Robert said first they Ministry of Defense, (MoD)said southwestern Nimroz provinces in living in Iran. The children were He said organizations working that Afghan National Army (ANA) published a small book of Rahman the past two months, local officials collected from streets in Iran and for children’s rights couldn't cope Baba’s famous verses and then in collaboration with Afghan said Monday. The children were then deported to Afghanistan.” with the issue. “About 30 to 50 National Police (ANP) and decide to translate all the Diwan National Directorate of Security deported through the Islam Qala He said the deportation children are averagely expelled by into English. “The poetry of the (NDS) personal has conducted border crossing in Herat and via process was underway and was Iran on a daily basis.” most revered sufi poet Rahman joint operations against insurgents the border of Nimroz with Iran, likely to accelerate in the next few The provincial government Baba is available in English in different areas of Nangarhar, said the officials. days. He asked the Iranian and the also expressed concern over the language also,” said Sampson, who Kapisa, Ghazni, Maidan Wardak, Herat Labor and Social Affairs Afghan governments to stop deportation of children, asking the believed the world has wrongly Paktia, Kandahar, Herat, Badghis, Director Abdul Qayoum Afghan forced expulsion of children from Iranian authorities to stop the recognized the Pashtuns. “This Balkh, Jawzjan, Faryab, Kunduz, told Pajhwok Afghan News the the country. On the other hand, process. nation does not like war, they are KABUL : Deputy finance minister said the private sector was willing Baghlan and Helmand provinces. deported Afghan children included Abdul Qader Rahimi, the Jilani Farhad, the governor’s peace-loving,” said the teacher, Khalid Painda on Monday said the to invest in 170 various projects Statement said that in these a young girl. Afghan called as Afghanistan Independent Human spokesman, said: “The who spent four years tirelessly private sector would invest $900 and invest $900 million in the operations 42 insurgents including worrisome the expelling of some Rights Commission (AIHRC) head deportation of children and translating the Rahman Baba million in the energy sector alone energy production area alone. 18 Daesh affiliates were killed and 1,000 children from neighboring for Herat, put the number of the unsupervised women is a matter work. (Pajhwok) through public-private Firoz Khan Masjidi, assistant eight 17 others were injured. Iran into western Afghanistan, deportees higher than what Abdul of concern.” partnership. Painda told a press for the private sector at the Afghan forces also arrested two saying these children had been Qayoum Afghan mentioned. “We have always demanded insurgents and handed over them conference here that the Ministry of Commerce and haplessly roaming in Islam Qala He said 30 to 50 children were serious steps to end deportation Snow, avalanches government was planning joint Industry (MoCI), said the to the judicial organs for further and Nimroz crossing points over daily deported via Islam Qala and of children without families by Iran inquiry. During these operations ventures with the private sector government was struggling with the past two months despite being Nimroz crossing points. keeping in view the cordial relations kill 13 people for economic development, lack of infrastructure, delays in in the past 24 hours, Afghan vulnerable to many threats. He said most of the deportees between the two countries.” National and Defense Security At least 13 people have been creating job opportunities, implementation of development forces shelled and bombed the He said many of the expelled belonged to far-away provinces in (Pajhwok) killed in avalanches caused by implementing infrastructural projects, reliance on foreign funds enemies’ positions by artilleries snowfall in the mountainous projects and offering quality and poor quality services. “If we and air force During these eastern parts of Afghanistan, services to the people. want to improve our economy and operations, 23 insurgents including officials said on Saturday. Abdul “It the government’s public- provide needed services to the 18 Daesh fighters were killed, two Ghani Musmim, spokesman for private partnership policy is people, then we have to work wounded and two others arrested the provincial administration in aimed to attract investment and jointly with the private sector, in Achin, Khogiani and Chaparhar eastern Kunar province, told skills of the private sector, both the private sector and the districts of Nangarhar, 11 Anadolu Agency the remote implement infrastructural government can benefit in this terrorists killed, eight others Chapa Dara district of this projects, reduce reliance on foreign case,” he said. Sardar Mohammad wounded and two strongholds province is affected the most. aid and effectively use public Momand, commercial assistant at destroyed in Marja, Nawah and KABUL : A new survey released Musmim said ten people — on Monday said the presence of mostly women and children — got assets and properties,” he said. the MoCI, said, “Despite missing Nawzad districts of Helmand, four “Our talks with the private many opportunities, we still can rebels were killed and four others women journalists in Afghanistan killed last night due to heavy snow wounded in Jaji Aryob district of has decreased due to insecurity. and avalanches. He said the sector are underway for develop a powerful economy in Paktia and four Taliban fighters Conducted by the Center for provincial administration has implementing two solar power near future if start right now.” He were killed and three others the Protection of Afghan Women appealed to the disaster projects in Kandahar province, said insecurity and administrative wounded in Emam Sahib district Journalist (CPAWJ), the survey management body to take building the second phase of the corruption discouraged the private of Kunduz. In past 24 hours, 18 was presented at an event attended immediate and effective steps to Kajaki Dam and generating sector from making investments planed clearing operations, 20 by officials of Independent mitigate the losses sustained in the electricity by using liquefied gas and these issues were addressed, Special Forces operations Afghanistan Human Rights snow and provide protection to in Mazar-i-Sharif and Shebrghan many foreign and domestic conducted in 14 provinces; also, Commission (IAHRC), Ministry the vulnerable communities in the cities,” he said. capitalists would invest in Air forces conducted 110 aerial of Information and Culture, and remote mountainous areas. The deputy finance minister Afghanistan. (Pajhwok) operations supporting Afghan head of the Reporters without was cited as main reason interviews with 74 local media National army including 36 strikes Borders. The survey shows the preventing women from joining the outlets across the country, on enemy’s sanctuaries. ANA number of female journalists field. Female journalists face more including 29 TV channels, 35 radio discovered and confiscated decreased in the country in recent security threats and harassment at stations, four news agencies, six weapons and ammunition in the years, particularly in the past two workplace than their male printing media and four journalists operations as well. years. The report says insecurity colleagues. CPAWJ conducted supporting groups. (Pajhwok)

The Presidential Palace (ARG) Spokesman for President’s Office. committee that receive the says the new Chairman of However, according to the applications for the membership Cabinet okays draft exempting print media from taxes Independent Election Commission president’s decree, the new of election commissions and (IEC) will be elected based on commissioner is being elected by evaluate the circumstances of the KABUL : The Afghanistan charge at the Ministry of Finance Tax Act about tax on print media Mass Media says, “Income tax is Afghanistan’s Electoral Law. hiring committee. applicants,” the decree reads. Cabinet has endorsed a draft law (MoF), said that their ministry’s that has also been mentioned in the obtained from mass media and “Every decision regarding the “Supreme Court, Human Rights The Free and Fair Election exempting periodic and non- proposed law had recently been Mass Media Law. The other organizations mentioned in election commission is based on Commission, the commission of Foundation of Afghanistan periodic print media from paying approved by the Council of amendments draft after its the Article 28th of this law. But the electoral law, except change, supervision and implementation of (FEFA), meanwhile, said that taxes to the government, an official Ministers. approval by the Cabinet will soon periodical and non-periodical print termination and appointment, and Constitution, the two changes should be brought into the said on Monday. “The MoF suggested some land in the National Assembly.” media are exempted from this the chairman will be also elected representatives of civil society and mechanism and selection Habib Zadaran, taxpayers’ in- draft amendments in the Income Article 53rd of the Law on provision.” (Pajhwok) based on that law in the future,” women’s rights organizations are said Dawa Khan Minapal, Deputy the five members of hiring procedures. (ATN) TUESDAY .NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Afgh an ist an ’s st ab ilizat ion can en su r e generation of m ar it im e young activists in the 1960’s fought for change and got it, but the change secu r it y they wrought plunged the country into war and misery, writes Wahab Raofi.

Baby Boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) Even land-locked countries can contribute—or harm—regional maritime security. Afghanistan is no exception. comprised the largest and most influential generation in history, I recently participated in an state-sponsorship of terrorism. As off abject poverty, knowing that a particularly in the US, where I international maritime a proxy of a coastal state, the lack of human security allows migrated many decades ago. But conference—SAGAR Discourse Taliban have daily killed and terrorists, extremists, and state- since I returned to my native dialogue organized by the Forum maimed innocent Afghans, while sponsors of terrorism to recruit Afghanistan to work as an for Integrated National Security— destroying the infrastructure that among the jobless, destitute youth interpreter, I have wondered, “Was that discussed “security and should help connect and integrate to radicalize, brainwash and exploit my version of the Baby Boomer growth for all” in the Indian Ocean Afghanistan with its surrounding them in conflicts of their choice. generation in Afghanistan a force region. The conference took place resourceful regions in the North Indeed, the best way to fight for good or evil?” in India’s coastal city of Goa, and South for increased trade, poverty that feeds terrorism is to The answer: probably a dose which has a long history of business and investment. foster political and security of both. Our blind idealism in the maritime trade and commercial State-sponsored terrorism has confidence-building through 1960’s led to many fatal missteps, exchange among different allowed some twenty other regional economic cooperation. The but the changes we made and civilizations of the South, East and terrorist networks with global and latter can serve as an important lessons we learned can be helpful West. Coming from a landlocked regional reach to operate out of enabler in deepening connectivity, to subsequent generations. Thus, government. of thousands were imprisoned for one foot in each country and a heart country, Afghanistan, it was a Afghanistan. At the same time, this enhancing competitiveness and I give you the following story. We blamed the ills of our their political beliefs, and divided. Today, I and many others unique learning experience for the imposed insecurity has enabled a productivity, lowering transaction I was born during the reign of society on the old ruling Durrani thousands more disappeared in who escaped to the US or Europe author, as he listened to speaker permissive environment for mass costs, and expanding markets in King Zahir Shah (1933-1973), dynasty, landlords, religious Pul-e-Charkhi prison, where I lost are now in our late 60’s, pondering after speaker on the challenges and drug cultivation and production in any region. How can this be done? whose era was, as Charles Dickens cliques and a series of self-serving an uncle. our role in what happened. opportunities that involve blue Afghanistan, which now provides In fact, Afghanistan has already put would say, the best of times and leaders. Students gave fiery Those of us who advocated We, the Afghan revolutionaries oceans. more than 90 percent of regional forth a strategic solution for the worst of times. speeches in the streets and carried communism suddenly had the of the 1960’s, were a catalyst for Because many of the and global demand for drugs. In adoption and implementation by The best included a banners with slogans like “Death utopian stars driven out of our change. That much is certain. We difficulties facing maritime security turn, revenues from the drug trade its coastal and landlocked constitutional monarchy modeled to Imperialism,” “Long Live eyes. The reality was that the were naïve about what we wanted, are land-based, an inclusive finance terrorism and fuel neighbors: The Heart of Asia– after the British Magna Carta, Socialism” and “Death to the Royal Soviet Union only wanted to and we paid a price for that. But approach—which promotes dysfunctional corruption that Istanbul Process (HOA-IP) and complete with trappings of Family.” I decorated my room with colonize Afghanistan, eradicate our perhaps Afghanistan will find a cooperation and partnership undermines governance and rule of The Regional Economic Western democracy. The worst pictures of communist leaders traditions and culture and turn us better future, now that we know between littoral and landlocked law, which together destabilize drug Cooperation Conference on was a centralized economy copied Marx, Engels, Stalin, Castro and into a Russian puppet. what doesn’t work. countries to resolve their shared producing and transit countries Afghanistan. These Afghanistan- from the Soviet model. Guevara. We read The Communist Most of us rushed to the - Wahab Raofi is a graduate of problems—should be utilized. It alike. Because of the led processes were established to Landlords with large parcels of Manifesto, Tobacco Road and nearest exit as if the country was Kabul Law School and worked at goes without saying that maritime interconnectedness of these help secure regional cooperation land held sway on government. Death of a Salesman. on fire. Too many idealistic various levels for the Ministry of security, on which much else imposed security challenges, for the country’s stabilization and Afghanistan’s parliament became Socialism seemed the answer members of my generation met Justice in his native Afghanistan. depends, is interconnected with Afghanistan is facing a complex sustainable development, thereby a den of tribal leaders, landlords to Afghanistan’s ills. In this, we violent deaths. The Red Army He immigrated to the United States events in landlocked countries. humanitarian crisis with ensuring stability and prosperity and clergymen. Corruption, social were not much different from the finally withdrew after nine years and has a home in Orange County, Afghanistan is a prime example: diminishing human security. throughout its surrounding regions. injustice and economic stagnation hippie/student Baby Boomer of conflict, which was followed by California, but currently works over the past forty years, Hence, this makes the country a Even though they remain ate away at the foundation of the movement in the US, led by the a prolonged Afghan civil war that with the NATO/International geopolitical tensions have imposed major source of refugees and underutilized so far, it is in the best system. likes of Jerry Rubin and Abbie set the stage for the Taliban Security Assistance Force as an destructive conflicts on what is one asylum seekers, who are often short- and long-term interests of Just as Baby Boomers arose Hoffman. takeover in 1996. In 2001, after interpreter in Afghanistan. His of the most naturally endowed ferried by human smugglers to coastal and non-coastal countries in the US to protest the Vietnamese We tried to overthrow the US forces liberated Afghanistan articles have been published in countries at the heart of rising Asia. Europe, Australia and elsewhere. that participate in the two War, racism, inequality for women ruling class. It was the beginning from the Taliban, many of us major U.S. newspapers and media In absence of peace in As we see, what is imposed on processes to double and triple their and police brutality, Afghan Baby of an era of turmoil, war and returned, some working on the outlets worldwide, including The Afghanistan to enable sustainable and happens in countries like efforts to achieve the shared goals Boomers took to the streets against change that lasted many decades. Afghan side or American side as Washington Times, San Diego development that secures the Afghanistan directly affect of the two platforms. Of course, their government. The King declined to use force interpreters or contractors. But we Union-Tribute, Christian Science future of its youthful population, maritime security. This dangerous every tangible step these countries We wanted to end social and let us be. Our demonstrations felt like strangers in our own land. Monitor, San Francisco Examiner, poverty permeates the Afghan situation necessitates that littoral take toward using these processes injustice and economic disaster. We disrupted government and My family remains in the US, my The Huffington Post, Stars and society. And this provides an and landlocked states no longer will help minimize their (and other sought a system that would damaged an economy that was children grew up speaking English, Stripes, Global Post and the enabling environment for such pause but join hands, pool their countries’) vulnerability to provide everyone with a roof over already crumbling. Our resistance and whether I am here in Kabul or Orange County Register. maritime security challenges as resources, and share intelligence to terrorism and its state sponsors. their heads and food on their began chopping up a system that home in California, I feel like I have (ToloNews) terrorism, drug trafficking, arms pursue and implement a common That is why time is of the essence tables. The utopians among us was falling apart on its own, which smuggling and human trafficking— counterterrorism strategy—one and they must reaffirm their often- wanted a world where everyone led to catastrophic, unintended among others. that doesn’t make any distinction pledged commitments to the loved each other, poverty and pain consequences. Ads by ZINC between terrorist networks. implementation of the projects and were abolished, and we all lived In 1978, the People’s Chapan; Badakhshanis’ Over the past sixteen years, Alongside this effort, they must programs, proposed under the two happily ever after. Democratic Party of Afghanistan Afghanistan has been a victim of work together to free their nations processes. (nationalinterest) As a young Muslim in the led a bloody coup d’etat that capital city of Kabul, I checked out overthrew the monarchy. A pro- traditional textile fabric library books and fell in love with Soviet cabinet was installed which Pentagon Claims 14,000 Troops in Afghanistan, Surge ‘Completed’ western literature and philosophy. promised that our misery was over, People in the northern zone, offer to the market for making From Shakespeare’s Hamlet to The and from that day forward, the particularly, northeastern money. The Pentagon has been keeping this statement. Most notably are troops were in Afghanistan before Secret Garden, books made me feel newly christened Democratic Badakhshan province of the He lauded the Badakshani troop figures in Afghanistan a secret other recent Pentagon statements, the surge began, which suggests like a character in a story. I saw a Republic of Afghanistan would country, mostly wear Chapan (a people for being professional in since President Trump ordered the as just about a week before that if the 3,800 were added onto stark contrast with what I was have the kind of society that its long overcoat, with ancient name the skill as he said this industry escalation over the summer. McKenzie made his 14,000 claim, it, their overall toll would well taught in my mosque, home and young people craved. of cloak), during winter season, had good market around the Officials have occasionally tipped officials said that a few hundred exceed 14,000 at this point. The school. I began questioning the But what followed was a especially when gratify an invitee. country’s big cities. off troop levels, however, and at more troops would be deployed in reality though is all official figures meaning of religion, liberty and repressive, dictatorial government Abdul Baqi, with a chapan Baqi, who is native to times contradict one another. Most early 2018, and when completed this are subject to change without justice. My thirst for answers followed by a Soviet Red Army shop in Kabul, told The Kabul Badakhshan’s provincial city, recently, Lt. Gen. Kenneth would have around 16,000 US notice, and lying to the American overwhelmed my loyalty to invasion and war that took millions Times that the textile have been Faizabad added that chapan is also McKenzie announced that the US troops in Afghanistan. On top of public about how many US troops established social beliefs. of lives. Millions more fled their mostly hand sewn by the women used by the elders to appear as a had completed its surge into that, the “surge” has consistently are in Afghanistan is practically Like the philosopher John country. in Badakhsahn province, but character of dignity among the Afghanistan, saying they now have been reported at 3,800 troops so official policy at this point, so the Locke, I and many others of my It was an atmosphere of terror became common to be stitched by people, but it has got common use around 14,000 troops in the far, and the last official figure from lack of consistency is unsurprising. generation became convinced that and fear. No one felt safe in their the young boys and girls willing to among the youth as well. country. There are reasons to doubt the Pentagon was 11,000 to 12,000 (ANTIWA) we had been lied to by our homes or anywhere else. Hundreds get engaged in the handicrafts and (KabulTimes) This Grandmother Opened a Gymfor Women in Afghanistan A lot of them are required permission from their families, especially their male guardians, to be able to go.

I was unsure of what to expect the establishment discreetly and woman onto an ab machine. for a couple of hours can greatly first time I stepped into a women’s anonymously. Then she drops to the floor help women with physical as well gym in Kabul. While I've known a That day, I met Parwin Sofi, a and demonstrates a yoga as mental well-being,” she says. lot of women in Kabul to be 70-year-old grandmother who has posture— uttanasana—bending Ruchi Kumar vivacious (contrary to how the been running a women’s gym for her torso to touch her feet with Despite being a respected media often portrays them)— the last ten years in Kabul’s the agility of a ballerina. She has figure in the community due to her especially in gender-segregated Soviet-built settlement of stamina that even the youngest years of work—and one failed spaces—there are still few who are Macroryan. Sofi has been on women in the gym can’t match. attempt at running for considered to be athletic. Of women’s health and fitness for They giggle a little at the idea of parliament—it was hard at first for course, there are Afghan women more than four decades—roughly replicating the pose, but follow her Sofi to convince women to join the who’ve consistently broken the same period as the war in lead. Despite the years of conflict, gym. “A lot of my initial clients stereotypes and excelled as Afghanistan. “I used to be a very Sofi never left Afghanistan. came recommended from doctors athletes, yet they remain a good volleyball player in high “During the worst of times, the in the neighborhood who knew me minority that has to continue to school and played for the national Taliban regime, my husband and I well,” she says, adding that her struggle against a system that team. Later I started coaching decided to move to Kandahar,” she oldest son is also a doctor works against them. younger girls, but had to stop when says, referring to the ancient city practicing in India. “Eventually, the As I approached the tiny office the war started,” she recalls. used by the Taliban as the capital. word spread and now women come of the gym instructor at the end of Sofi’s passion for sports not Sofi began her work there as a to me because they’ve heard about a wide room filled with all sorts of only enabled her physically, but midwife and later as a nurse at a the benefits of going to a gym." exercising equipments and the also empowered her mentally—she time when there were severe She recalls one case—three women working on their gains, I didn’t give in easily to the demands restrictions on working women. sisters who were recovering drug wondered if we were still in Kabul. of the male-dominated society As Afghanistan slipped further users. Women in Afghanistan who Many were dressed in tracksuits around her. It gave her the strength into war in the early 2000s, Sofi fall to addiction are treated very with matching sneakers, others in to continue practicing and training, observed that the opportunities for unkindly by the public, and are shorts and tank tops, and yet often in secret. As she shares her women to have access to such often exploited by the system others in the traditional salwaar story, several young women enter spaces was dwindling. “Afghan[s] meant to protect them. Sofi made kameez native to this region. the gym—a wide barn that, at one have so many health problems; it her goal to get on their cases— There was music playing— point, was a yard for the men’s issues with stamina, back pains, one was in her teens and the other Justin Bieber, I think—and there gymnasium next door. “This was joint pains. It [could be] because a two in their 20s. was a lot of chatter. In the corner, the only space that we could find. lot of them have closed lives at “I would take a taxi to their there was a crib that held three For a long time, it didn’t even have homes with little to do with the house every day to pick them up, children between the ages of 1 and a roof," she recalls, "so we had to outside. Even the streets are bring them to the gym, exercise and 3 being looked after by a teenage shut it down during rain and snow." unwelcoming to them and they feed them, and drop them back. I girl who also appeared to be The setup is simple: A often don’t get to walk as much as did this for six months, and then running the juice bar next to it. As concrete floor covered in colorful, they should,” she says. “This the girls were able to travel on their I changed into my basic gym wear, handmade Persian carpets. There apart from the general gloom and own,” she says. Eight years later, I noticed that the coat rack held are two elliptical trainers, four depression that surrounds their not only have the girls fully long black coats, black abayas and stationary cycles, and four daily life.” recovered, but they've also made the blue burqas. A lot of the treadmills, as well as an assortment Some of Sofi’s clients are successful careers for themselves. women tell me they’re required of dumbbells, hula hoops, and referred by doctors who’ve “One of them has moved to permission from their families, other exercise equipment used by diagnosed women with depression Germany for work,” she says, especially their male guardians, to about 100 women every week. and other mental health smiling. For a lot of women who be able to go to the gym. This also “Some of the equipment was conditions. “The rockets might not visit gyms like Sofi’s, however, it get together at the gym for a visits at least four times a week. retire. "Even after raising kids meant that, for some, attending the bought with the donation of the have damaged their homes, but becomes not just a place for fitness, potluck meal of healthier versions “It helps us feel [like a] part of a who’ve made successful careers," gym was an act of defiance— community, but I paid for the roof have surely damaged their psyche,” but a space for camaraderie. of Afghan delicacies,” says Mina, community.” That's one reason she says, "I have much left to do." moving in and out of the on my own,” she says, helping one she says. “Exercising twice a week “There are days when we simply a 28-year-old housewife who why Sofi says she has no plans to (VICE) TUESDAY .NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

country’s reliance on energy imports, small size of the domestic market, limitations in transmission and distribution networks, and governance and financing weaknesses leave Afghanistan’s energy security highly vulnerable. The projects will help connect the EMERGENCY last missing links for an expanded CALLS Turkmenistan-Afghanistan power lection monitoring groups have called on officials to interconnection, expanding the speed up the process of appointing a new IEC chairman power grid to the central, eastern, so as to fill the void created by Ahmadzai’s departure Police and southern provinces, and provide redundancy to the existing 100 - 119 transmission network. This will include the construction of over 300 kilometers (km) of a 500 Hospitals kilovolt (kV) transmission line connecting Sheberghan to Dashte FMIC Hospital Alwan and over 60 km of a 220 kV Behind Kabul Medical line from Andkhoy to Sheberghan. The projects are part of the University: broader Turkmenistan- 0202500200-+93793275595 U z b e k i s t a n - T a j i k i s t a n - The FINANCIAL: Afghanistan contracts, totaling $75 million, are play a major role in power Afghanistan-Pakistan (TUTAP) President Mohammad Ashraf being financed from ADB’s Special transmission both regionally and regional connectivity project that Rabia-i-Balkhi Hospital Ghani witnessed the contract Funds and the Afghanistan domestically, and promote clean ADB has been financing since Pule Bagh-e- Umomi signing of two Asian Development Infrastructure Trust Fund (AITF) energy, including through solar 2003. Bank-financed (ADB) energy approved in 2015. AITF, power,” said Mr. Tumiwa. “The ADB is Afghanistan’s largest 070263672 projects which will help administered by ADB, is a donor- projects, which have been signed, official development partner in the Afghanistan boost energy supply, financed fund established in 2010 will help provide more electricity energy sector. ADB has helped Khairkhana Hospital improve energy security and which aims to improve livelihoods for Afghan households, businesses, deliver electricity to more than 5 efficiency, and promote cross- of the Afghan people through and industry.” million people in Afghanistan. Over 0799-321007 border trade in energy. infrastructure development, Energy demand in Afghanistan the coming years, ADB will Election observers and monitoring “There are two ideas about it, 2401352 President Ghani was joined by according to ADB. is increasing by almost twice its support the increase in the groups on Sunday said the absence the first is that that they wait until ADB Country Director for “ADB, through its new economic growth rate, and country’s electrification rate from of a chairman for the Independent the national assembly leaves for Afghanistan Samuel Tumiwa, Country Partnership Strategy, will currently only about 32% of the 30% to 83%, and lift the share of Election Commission (IEC) can winter recess and then issue a Indira Gandhi Children cabinet ministers, and members of support Afghanistan’s efforts to population has access to grid- domestic generation from 20% to not justify poor performance by legislative decree, or they once parliament at the ceremony. The increase the electrification rate, connected electricity. The 67% by 2030. (FINCHANNEL) members of the election again interview people and appoint Hospital, Wazir Akbar management body. an appropriate candidate,” said They urged government former IEC chief Fazel Ahmad Khan, Kabul 2301372 officials to speed up efforts to fill Manavi. the vacuum that has been created With only nine months to go following the dismissal of former before the scheduled parliamentary Ibn-e- Seena IEC chief Najibullah Ahmadzai. and district council elections, Pul-e-Artan, Kabul According to election President Ashraf Ghani this week monitoring groups, on the basis of fired his own hand-picked 2100359 the law, the deputies of the IEC Independent Election Commission have been given special authorities (IEC) chairman Najibullah and the absence of a chairman Ahmadzai. Wazir Akbar Khan should not undermine the work of “On the basis of the decision Hospital the election commission. dated 21 Aqrab (12 November) and “If we consider national the demands of the Independent 2301741, 2301743 interests and use a political Election Commission about the Abdullah Abdullah says NATO focus on Iraq detracts from challenges in his country method, he (a new IEC chief) can dismissal of Najibullah Ahmadzai Ali Abad be brought outside the list, but it from the membership of the is good to bring him through commission, it is hereby directed Shahrara, Kabul One of the leading figures in political consensus, political that the concerned institutions Afghanistan's national government consultations with civil society and introduce new candidates to fill the 2100439 insists his war-torn country must political elites, so someone should vacant post of one of the be put back at the forefront of be brought in who is able to address commission members,” a Malalai Maternity NATO's efforts to defeat terrorist the issue of poor performance and presidential decree issued by the groups in the Middle East and strengthen the political consensus presidential palace on Wednesday Hospital South Asia. Abdullah Abdullah, the when it comes to the elections,” read. 2201377/ 2301743 government's chief executive and said Jandad Spinghar, chairman of According to the law, if an IEC one of the featured speakers this Afghan Civil Society Election chairman resigns or is fired, weekend at the Halifax Network (ACSEN). government would have to review Banks International Security Forum, says Based on the election law, a the previous list of shortlisted the new NATO focus on Iraq left member of the election applicants and select a new Da Afghanistan Bank his country vulnerable to greater commission should be picked from chairman from there. If no one is terrorist activity.. the list that was submitted last year found to be eligible for the post 2100302, 2100303 In an interview for the podcast by the selection committee of the then the application and selection edition of CBC Radio's The House, IEC commissioners at the time of process would have to start again. Bakhtar Bank he spoke of the negative impact Ahmadzai’s appointment. Ahmadzai was appointed as the 2014 drawdown of NATO However sources have said that head of the IEC one year ago after 0776777000 troops, including Canada, had on President Ashraf Ghani is he was picked by the election Azizi Bank his country. expected to issue a new decree on commission’s selection committee "When I look back over the the appointment of a chairman. and his appointment approved by 0799 700900 years and the shift to Iraq, it “From a legal perspective, the government leaders. Pashtany Bank detracted from Afghanistan and, list was finalized by the selection Ahmadzai Defied His the Taliban and al-Qaeda, they committee and other institutions, Dismissal as Illegal 2102908, 2103868 both took advantage of that Trainees at the Afghan National Police Academy stand in formation on Feb. 20, 2011, in Kabul, Afghanistan. An which also includes the In response to his dismissal, situation." Afghan leader has appealed to Canada and NATO for more help with fighting the Taliban. Presidential Palace which issues Ahmadzai on Thursday accused India Afghanistan US Air Services in mind that, given the complexity mission He says the renewed U.S. the decree regarding the dismissal the Presidential Palace of making Afghanistan's Chief Executive revival of that training at the staff of the chairman; naturally the next illegal demands on the election Abdullah Abdullah was a featured college and war college here in of the regional dynamics, we can't troop surge provides both a greater Safi Airways allow groups like Daesh or Daesh military presence to eliminate the chief is also expected to be selected management body and said that the speaker at the Halifax International Canada, which was very effective, through a decree,” said legal expert Presidential Palace wants to Security Forum this weekend. or support for own military 2.0 to be created. We always keep Taliban and other extremist groups 020 22 22 222 regional security in mind." using Afghanistan as a safe haven, Shah Mahmoud Mal. manipulate the next elections. (Manish Swarup/Associated academies in Kabul so we can do But other legal experts have “Independent election Press) Most of the focus at the better and benefit from the Earlier this week about 20 but Trump's decision not to to Ariana Canadian Army engineers began attach a specific withdrawal date said the dismissal of the IEC chief commission was asked to meeting of military, political and opportunity," he said. and the issuance of another (conduct) illegitimate work, diplomatic leaders was on other "My sense was (the reaction) training Iraqi security forces to as in the past is equally significant. 020-2100270 disarm IEDs — improvised "It provides clarity. The message presidential decree regarding the personal demands were made pressing security concerns: North was positive but at the same time appointment of a new IEC chief is including the manipulation of the Korea, Russia and Iraq. this has to be decided by Canada explosive devices. is clear for our enemies and foes. Canada has also contributed Had it been time-bound, the in contravention of Afghanistan’s elections,” said Ahmadzai. But the Kam Air Afghanistan merited relatively through its own processes. I didn't laws. Presidential Palace (ARG) on 0799974422 little attention outside of feel it was a no-go area." 200 special forces soldiers to train Taliban would have adapted tactics Iraqi and Kurdish troops. That to wait us out and then come back “From the list of 27 Thursday said government’s Abdullah's appearance. Canada 'committed to helping candidates, which will be sent to decision to fire Ahmadzai was a U.S. has committed more Afghanistan' Defence officials in training is now suspended full force. Hotels following clashes between the two It also sends a signal to the president, one of them must positive move. Ahmadzai also troops U.S. President Donald Halifax declined to get into the be appointed within a span of accused some members of the IEC Safi Landmark Trump announced in August that specifics of the conversation, but sides. NATO's top military groups outside that are supporting commander, Czech General Petr the Taliban, that they will be seven days,” said legal expert of having political and ethnic he would increase troop said in a statement that Canada Abdul Subhan Misbah. affiliations. (ToloNews) deployments in Afghanistan. This remains "committed to helping Pavel, says resources are a returning back anyway."(CBC) 020-2203131 week the Pentagon confirmed the Afghanistan achieve long-term challenge with so many trouble number of soldiers has now stability and prosperity." spots around the world, including SERENA reached 14,000. Canada is now contributing Afghanistan. The increase was requested by $110 million a year to support the Strain on NATO resources 0799654000 General John Nicholson, the Afghan National Defence and "We have identified that officer directing NATO's Resolute Security Forces. Still, at his closing resources are not sufficient at this New Rumi Restaurant Support Mission in Afghanistan, news conference, Sajjan told time. We have asked for more which has a mandate is to train, reporters Canada's priority resources and it's reflected in the 0776351347 advise and support Afghan remains defeating ISIS, or Daesh, push on nations to spend more on security forces. in Iraq and Syria. defence," he said. Internet Services 'We have asked for more Abdullah insists NATO's NATO increasing troops in UA Telecom Afghanistan again, but Trudeau resources and it's reflected in the focus doesn't need to be on one says Canadians won't be among push on nations to spend more on country or the other, or to pit one 0796701701 / 0796702702 them Nicholson said he needs defence' trouble spot against another. 16,000 troops to do the work, The - Gen. Petr Pavel, NATO's top Afghanistan, like Iraq, like Syria. Exchange Rate remaining 2,000 soldiers would military commander needs help to create stability, and to have the opportunity to rebuild, come from NATO countries. They "The first thing we are looking 1.00 USD would not have a combat role, but at from a security and defence he says. Trump makes only move 68.50AFN assist in training. perspective is to eliminate the main he can on Afghanistan Previous Canada declined to join. But threat, which is Daesh," he said. attacks underscore dangers for the Trudeau government continues "All nations need to keep this Canadians in Afghanistan training to provide development assistance 1000.00 IRR and support for initiatives 18.00AFN promoting human rights and and the rights of women. Abdullah told CBC News that he met on the sidelines of Halifax 1.00 UAE forum with Canada's Defence 18.60AFN Minister Harjit Sajjan to ask for more help in military training, 1.00 EUR Afghanistan Afghan policemen 82.20AFN demonstrate their skills during a graduation ceremony at a police training centre in the Adraskan district of Herat province. 1000.00 INR Afghanistan's Abdullah would like 1055.00AFN to revive training at the staff college and war college here in Canada. 1000.00 PKR (Reza Shirmohammadi/Associated 641.00AFN Press) "The issue I raised was the TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Rahul Gandhi is set to succeed his mother, Sonia, and is expected to be elected unopposed like she has been for the past 17 years.

New Delhi: The Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Monday announced the schedule to elect the next party president, paving the way for Rahul Gandhi’s coronation just before the Gujarat elections. The CWC meeting was chaired by the current party president Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence in the morning. The 47-year-old vice-president of the Congress is set to succeed his mother, Sonia, and is expected to be elected unop- posed like she has been for the past 17 years. The Congress will issue the poll notification on December 1 and if anyone would want to con- tend for the succession to the par- ty presidency, he/she will have to file nomination papers by Decem- ber 4. The party will scrutinise the Bangladesh launched talks with he would leave for Myanmar late ing of the Rohingya Muslims, nominations on December 5 and Myanmar aimed at a deal to repa- on Sunday to attend an Asia-Eu- Myanmar in early November said, allow contender(s), if there any, to triate Rohingya refugees and Dha- rope Meeting (ASEM) on Mon- according to presstv, it was ready withdraw the nomination by De- ka’s foreign minister will address day and Tuesday, adding that he to set up a repatriation process. cember 11. Election, if there are contender for the post, the party vated soon. Sonia Gandhi has been public engagements, which brought the matter at talks in Myanmar this would stay another couple of days Myanmar's de facto leader, Aung contender(s), would be held on would announce Rahul's candida- Congress President since 1988, Rahul more to the forefront. Rahul week, the Bangladeshi foreign min- for bilateral talks on the Rohingya San Suu Kyi, has said Rohingyas December 16 and results an- ture on the last date of scrutiny, i.e. making her the longest-serving chief became the party's vice-president istry said. More than 600,000 refugees. The unnamed aide ex- who can prove they were resident nounced on December 19. The December 5. In October, Sonia had of the party. She has been unwell in in January 2013. Muslim Rohingya have fled to pressed hope for an agreement on in Myanmar would be accepted Congress said if there is no other said Rahul Gandhi would be ele- recent years and has scaled back her (Dindia) neighbouring Bangladesh since late allowing Rohingya to return to back. August, driven out by a military Myanmar, saying, "Both coun- Suu Kyi, who won the Nobel clearance operation in Myanmar’s tries have almost reached an un- Peace Prize in 1991, has so far done Rakhine State, Express Tribune derstanding on this issue and there almost nothing to end the violence Nepal signs reported. The Rohingyas’ suffer- are a few points still to be agreed in Rakhine State despite increas- ing has caused an international out- ... We hope to reach an agreement." ing pressure from the internation- cry. Meanwhile, a senior aide to Stung by international criticism al community. Bangladeshi foreign minister said and accusations of ethnic cleans- (Press TV) deal for major hydropower scheme

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) their representatives while it is ju- a day after the former prime min- The Nepal Electricity Authority chairman Imran Khan, on Monday, diciary that is tasked with uphold- ister kicked off his party’s nation- (NEA) has signed an agreement lambasted ousted prime minister ing the law,” he said. “So it is judi- al mass contact campaign in wake with a Chinese company for the Nawaz Sharif for his recent re- ciary that has constitutional duty of hostile court verdicts against the construction of a US$1.8bn marks that only people will judge of ehtesab.” I am not afraid of jail: ruling family. Addressing his sup- (£1.37bn) hydropower project. him over corruption allegations Sharif Claiming that his political porters in Abbottabad on Sunday, China Three Gorges Corporation against his family. “Nawaz Sharif’s opponent did not have any legal Sharif said there was just one ac- (CTGC) will have 75% stake in ad nauseam slogan that people will defence against the ‘criminal’ charg- countability court, comprising 200 the joint venture, with NEA hold- Sri Lanka's prime minister has ap- ed money to pay for projects such amid mounting criticism of the do his ehtesab [accountability] is es against him, Imran accused million people, and they would ing the remainder. peared before a commission that as road construction that the pre- former Central Bank governor an attempt to fool all the people Sharif of undermining the coun- hold everyone accountable who is probing alleged wrongdoing in vious administration did not in- by opposition lawmakers and The 750 MW West Seti hydro- all the time but people cannot be try’s judiciary and constitution. denied justice to their leader who power project is located in Ne- the sale of government bonds that clude on government books. other critics. fooled repeatedly,” the PTI chief “Now Nawaz Sharif and the Sharif was elected to power with popu- opposition lawmakers say led to a The scandal has tainted Wickre- Most of the bonds were sold pal’s Baitadi, Bajhang, Dadeldhu- tweeted, saying the deposed pre- mafia are desperate to use all ex- lar votes. “I placed my review pe- ra and Doti districts. loss of about $1 billion. mesinghe's government, which to a company owned by the mier’s attempt to “stir people into tralegal means to save his Rs300b tition before the people’s court Prime Minister Ranil Wickremes- came to power promising to erad- governor's son-in-law, who is doing his ehtesab” was a violation laundered and stashed abroad,” he because the SC’s questionable de- Construction is expected to take inghe said his government has icate corruption. accused of making massive prof- of the Constitution and a call for said.Imran says he will quit poli- cisions tarnished their global im- 79 months. "nothing to hide." He told the com- The commission was appointed its. mob justice. “They know their tics if disqualified age,” he said. (AP) mission that the government need- by President Maithripala Sirisena (Colombo) role under Constitution is to elect The PTI leader’s remarks came just (Tribune) Kamal Haasan tweets on H a sa n Ali st u n s corruption; TN govt warns D h a k a D yn a m it es it will take him to court wit h a five-for in The Tamil Nadu government on Monday threatened legal action against superstar Kamal Haasan after the actor’s tweet cast aspersions on its B a n gla d esh P r em ier functioning and also tried to highlight corruption.“It is a crime if the government is involved in looting. It is also a crime if it is not proved after detection. Criminals should not rule the country. The people and the government elected by them should act. The people should be the L ea gu e war Zalmi in the emerging cate- umpire. Let us all wake up and arise,” the actor tweeted on Sunday. gory for the Pakistan Super Haasan’s latest tweet infuriated the government which has threatened Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali an- against the Dhaka Dynamites. League's (PSL) opening sea- legal action against him if the actor continued with his “baseless corrup- nounced his arrival in the Bang- The number one ranked One son, is also the highest ODI tion allegations.” State fisheries minister D Jayakumar said Kamal Haasan ladesh Premier League (BPL) on Day International (ODI) bowler wicket-taker this year. is seeking cheap publicity and this was unacceptable. “The state gov- Monday with a five-for - all became only the second after He rose to prominence in the ernment will take legal action against the actor if he continues leveling bowled - for just 20 runs. Ali took Bangladesh's Rubel Hossain to international circuit as part of baseless charges against the government,” Jayakumar told reporters. five wickets in 3.3 overs putting have bowled five batsmen out the side that won Pakistan its The minister said if Kamal Haasan was serious he could make a formal his side, the Comilla Victorians, in a single Twenty20 game. Ali, first Champions Trophy title. complaint against corruption. in a commanding position who was picked by the Pesha- (Tribune) (Hindustan Times) TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief South Israeli police arrive at Sudan says Netanyahu's ex-military home to discuss corruption chief freed charges Israeli police grilled Prime Min- fromhouse ister Benyamin Netanyahu for a sixth time on Sunday over alle- gations of involvement in brib- arrest ery, fraud, and breach of trust. Investigators arrived at Netan- South Sudan says former military yahu's official residence in Jerus- chief of staff Paul Malong has been alem shortly after on Sunday, released from house arrest on hu- police said. Officers of the na- manitarian grounds and flown to tional fraud and serious crimes Kenya for medical treatment. "He's squad questioned the premier for free to go anywhere he wants," "a number of hours" over two information minister Michael cases of corruption. It was their Makuei tells The Associated second visit in ten days, after Press. This is Malong's first trip Netanyahu was grilled for about abroad since he was fired in May. four hours on 9 November. Tensions were high in the capital, Netanyahu is suspected of hav- Juba, this month after President ing received luxury gifts from Salva Kiir dispatched soldiers to wealthy supporters, including surround Malong's house and or- Israeli businessman and Holly- dered his bodyguards disarmed. wood producer Arnon Milchan. The situation calmed after media- Milchan, a long-time friend of tion by community leaders. Netanyahu, reportedly sent him A former close ally of Kiir, Mal- boxes of expensive cigars and ong has been accused of leading other items worth tens of thou- last year's fighting in Juba and con- sands of dollars. The producer trolling an ethnic militia. The Unit- was himself questioned in Sep- ed States in September imposed tember. In addition to suspicions sanctions on him along with two that the gifts constituted bribery, other senior officials for undermin- the police also suspect that he ing security amid the country's civil sought a secret pact for favour- war. able coverage. (AP) (BBC) Turkey says North Kurds attack post in Syria, no Korean women casualties suffer Turkey’s state-run news agency says Syrian Kurdish fighters have discrimination, attacked a Turkish observation post in the northern Syrian prov- rape, ince of Idlib with mortar rounds. There were no casualties. The malnutrition: Anadolu Agency says the attack occurred Monday near the Daret Azzeh region in Idlib, where Angela Merkel is in talks with the a minority government, either with UN Turkey is implementing a “de- Zimbabwe's ruling party will dis- of parliament would meet Mon- Anxious Zimbabweans have been cuss the impeachment of President day to start mapping out the pres- trying to decipher a barely audible German president after the col- the FDP or the Greens, and gather North Korean women are deprived escalation zone” to reduce con- lapse of coalition talks pushed the support from other parties on in- flict as part of an agreement Robert Mugabe Monday after the ident's removal. aside comment he made to mili- of education and job opportuni- 93-year-old despot ignored a dead- He had already been removed as tary chief Constantino Chiwenga country into its worst political cri- dividual policy votes. Once all oth- ties and are often subjected to vio- reached with Russia and Iran. sis in decades. The pro-business er options are exhausted, Steinmei- Anadolu said five mortar rounds line to end his nearly four decades party leader. Zimbabwe's President at the end of the address. lence at home and sexual assault in in power following last week's Robert Mugabe delivered a ram- In the audio, which is not clear, Free Democratic party (FDP) er could dissolve the current par- the workplace, a United Nations were fired at the Turkish obser- walked out of marathon negotia- liament and call fresh elections. To vation post. Turkey sent troops military coup. Impeachment could bling address on Sunday, but didn't Mugabe refers to a "long speech" human rights panel said on Mon- see the world’s oldest ruler kicked resign. AFP - Getty Image Mugabe or a "wrong speech". tions shortly before midnight on get there, however, Steinmeier day. After a regular review of Py- into Syria last month to set up Sunday, with its leader, Christian would need to first set in motion a observation posts in the border out by a vote in parliament and stunned Zimbabweans in a ram- Moments after the speech, war ongyang's record, the U.N. Com- would represent an ignominious bling late night Sunday television veterans leader Chris Mutsvang- Lindner, saying there was no “com- complicated process involving a mittee on the Elimination of Dis- province that is dominated by al- mon basis of trust” between the parliamentary vote on Merkel’s Qaida-linked militants. Turkey end to the career of the "Grand Old address by avoiding any mention wa told Reuters they would lead crimination against Women voiced Man" of African politics, who was of resignation. There was even public protests in the streets of FDP, Merkel’s centre-right bloc role as interim chancellor. Merkel concern at rape or mistreatment of considers the Syrian Kurdish and the Greens. It was “better not has been trying to forge a coalition militia to be terrorists because of once lauded across the continent speculation that he read the wrong Harare, cranking up the pressure women in detention especially its links to Kurdish rebels fight- as an anti-colonial hero. ZANU- speech in his live television ad- on Zimbabwe's ruler of the last 37 to govern than to govern badly”, between her Christian Democratic those repatriated after fleeing ing in Turkey’s southeast. Copy- PF chief whip Lovemore Matuke dress, or skipped over passages years. he added. Live Markets rattled as Union (CDU), its Bavarian sister abroad. North Korean women are right 2017 The Associated Press. told Reuters the party's members about standing down. (WP) German coalition talks collapse – party the Christian Social Union "under-represented or disadvan- All rights reserved. This materi- business live (CSU), the FDP and the Greens taged" in tertiary education, the ju- al may not be published, broad- All the day’s economic and finan- following federal elections at the diciary, security and police forces cast, rewritten or redistributed. cial news, as investors digest An- end of September. Lindner said on and leadership and managerial po- (WP) gela Merkel’s failure to reach a deal Sunday the parties involved in the sitions "in all non-traditional areas Kurdish parliament speaker: with Germany’s Free Democrats. talks had missed several self-pre- of work", the panel of experts said. The collapse raises the prospect scribed deadlines to resolve differ- Domestic violence is prevalent and of fresh elections and is the most ences on migration and energy pol- there is "very limited awareness" German- Referendumconsequences serious threat to Merkel’s power icies, and had “no common vision about the issue and a lack of legal since she became chancellor in for modernisation of the country”. services, psycho-social support Turkish 2005. “It is a day of deep reflec- A so-called “Jamaica” coalition – and shelters available to victims, it destroyed achievements of tion on how to go forward in Ger- so named because the parties’ tra- said. North Korea told the panel many,” Merkel told reporters be- ditional colours are the same as on Nov. 8 that it was working to tensions in a fore talks with Frank-Walter Stein- those on the Jamaican flag – has uphold women's rights and gender meier, the German president. “As only previously been tested at re- equality but that sanctions im- collapsing past 25 years chancellor, I will do everything to gional level, but was the only plau- posed by major powers over its ensure that this country is well sible coalition option open to nuclear and missile programmes managed in the difficult weeks to Merkel. were taking a toll on vulnerable Jamaica come.” Merkel could seek to form (AP) coalition mothers and children. (AFP)

In the last decade or so, German foreign policy has been largely Kenya's supreme court characterized by a broadly uni- fied stance towards Turkey. Ber- lin perceived the first ten years of AKP rule as moderately posi- upholds Kenyatta's tive. On the EU level, EU acces- sion negotiations with Turkey commenced in 2005 and Germa- ny, holding vast leverage in EU presidential win politics, proved to be far from After extending the term of the talks with Baghdad, urging Prime dependence vote before the par- vetoing the opening of accession outgoing Iraqi Kurdistan parlia- Minister Haidar al-Abadi against liamentary elections. “I knew that talks. However, the authoritari- ment, it was believed that Speaker acting “arrogant.” Explaining why it will be difficult to organize the an suppression of the 2013 Gezi Kenya’s Supreme Court on Mon- decision taken under duress”. curity after the shooting. The court Yusuf Mohammed Sadiq would he did not resume his work as a elections directly after the refer- day unanimously upheld the re- “We in NASA had repeatedly de- could not immediately be reached protests in Istanbul darkened return to Irbil and carry out his parliament speaker, he replied that endum due to the short period of Germany’s view of Turkey; and election of President Uhuru Ken- clared before this Supreme Court on Monday to comment on duties, especially in wake of the the way in which the “parliament time between the two events,” yatta in last month’s repeat presi- ruling today that we consider this NASA’s allegation. Monday’s rul- its image of the then prime min- disastrous consequences of the was rendered functional did not Sadiq said. He added that he sent a ister and current president, Re- dential vote, paving the way for government to be illegitimate and ing clears the way for Kenyatta’s autonomous region’s independence satisfy our ambitions.” “We want- letter to the electoral commission him to be sworn in next week. do not recognise it. This position swearing-in on Nov. 28, but it is cep Tayyip Erdogan, was accord- referendum. However, neither the ed to keep it away from partisan asking it to prepare for organizing ingly impaired. From 2013 on- Chief Justice David Maraga said has not been changed by the court unlikely to end the worst political Speaker returned to parliament nor meddling, but the reality was that the presidential and parliamenta- all six judges dismissed the two ruling,” the statement said. crisis in East Africa’s most devel- wards, German politics has in- did the political situation stabilize. its only goal was to legislate the ry elections before the end of par- creasingly presented a united, legal challenges to the vote. The It referred to security concerns oped economy in a decade. Resi- Sadiq had held the Kurdistan re- referendum process.” He explained liament’s term on June 11 because opposition coalition NASA insist- raised by the opposition about the dents in the western city of critical shoulder-to-shoulder gion’s government accountable for that the decision to hold the refer- he feared that the referendum stance against the Turkish gov- ed the government was illegitimate. judges after one of their body- Kisumu, where Odinga has strong this instability, saying that the con- endum took place through a parti- would delay the elections, but noth- Kenyatta’s main challenger, guards was shot the day before the backing, barricaded roads in pro- ernment concerning the unhap- sequences of the September refer- san decision and against the par- ing transpired from his efforts. py state of democracy in Tur- NASA’s Raila Odinga, said in a court was to deliberate on an 11th- test at the court’s decision, and endum cost the region 25 years liament’s will. He revealed that he The referendum was consequent- statement by his adviser Salim hour request to delay last month’s police later fired in the air to dis- key. However, we now witness worth of achievements. In an in- was opposed to the extension of ly held and the parliamentary and a significant deepening of EU- Lone that the ruling “did not come election. The chief justice said at perse them, according to a Reuters terview with Asharq Al-Awsat, parliament’s term, especially since presidential elections were post- as a surprise” and said “it was a the time police had “enhanced” se- witness. (BBC) Turkey trade relations and polit- Sadiq said that he is ready to hold parties agreed to organize the in- poned. (BBC) ical collaboration (EU-Turkey migration deal) in the framework of a recent and most salient po- litical issue, namely migration and integration; while on the oth- Prime Minister Abadi bans I raq militia leaders from elections er hand, transnational blaming – Iraq militia leaders will not be allowed to stand in next year's provincial and national elections, Prime Minister to name some: mutual ‘Nazi’ ac- Haider al-Abadi said this weekend. His comments come amid fears of the growing power and influence of Iran cusations, the blocking of public and paramilitary forces in Iraq, following the defeat of the Islamic State group. In an attempt to limit their appearances of AKP MPs in influence in national politics, Abadi has said militia leaders must lay down their arms and enter civilian life if western European countries, the they wish to stand in elections. Armenian Genocide resolution of "There must be a clear separation between political and armed groups," the prime minister warned on the the German Bundestag, the Jan weekend. "It's vital that people choose the politicians that they want... The government's anti-corruption Böhmermann case – between campaign requires unity of all Iraqis in order to combat this issue, just like our defeat against IS." Abadi came Berlin and Ankara has flourished to power in 2014, promising to rein in the rampant corruption that thrived under his predecessor Nouri al- ever since the EU-Turkey migra- Maliki. With little progress made in stamping out graft, Iraqis took to the streets to protest against frequent tion deal was agreed in March power cuts. These died down with the Iraqi army's offensive against IS, which relied on the crucial support 2016. As of then, Turkey was of Shia militias, who joined forces under the umbrella formation the Iranian-backed Popular Mobilisation expecting an imminent happy Forces or Hashd al-Shaabi. ending in terms of an EU visa- Catch up with our weekly round-up from Iraq waiver deal for Turkish citizens. Their lead role in the battles against IS and status as a quasi-independent army force has given Tehran an ever However, the EU wanted Tur- stronger role in the country. Iraq's political leadership hope next May's elections will bring some harmony to key first to stick to the remain- the country and embolden the civilian government. Iraq's last parliamentary elections were held in April 2014, ing criteria, one of which includes which saw Maliki's Shia-dominated party win and form a coalition with smaller parties. Abadi will have to reforming Turkey’s highly con- deal with security issues, continued corruption, internal power feuds, and the issue of Iraqi-Kurdistan's tested anti-terror laws. (AP) independence bid as he prepares for the elections slated for 12 May. TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 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 Paddy Ashdown:‘It is very clear that Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy war crimes have been committed in Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] the conflict in Yemen’ Email: [email protected] On 18 September Middle East Mon- that the greatest threat to world same event – the struggle between Mali, Libya and Yemen and the itor hosted a conference entitled peace coming out of the Middle Sunni and Shia which now stands on proxy terrorist outrages in major “Crisis in the Middle East and Sau- East, was not jihadist terrorism, but the edge of open conflict. A word Western capitals. Left unchecked, www.afghanistantimes.af di’s attempts at realignment” which the danger of a wider Sunni-Shia re- about the role of religion in these as it has been, there was always go- ligious conflict, similar the Wars of kind conflicts. Of course I do not in ing to be a moment when this would Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi was attended by former members of the British government and academ- Religion which engulfed Europe in any way doubt the sincerity of those turn from something behind the ics and journalists from around the the 17thcentury. And that the ter- who feel deeply – even violently – scenes and below the surface, to Advisory editorial board world former. Former leader of the rorist insurgencies in Iraq, Syria, about the differences between the something open and right in front Liberal Democrats Lord Paddy Ash- Mali, Yemen, Lebanon and the wid- two great branches of Islam. I have of us. Crisis in Saudi Arabia: War, Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar down gave the keynote speech dur- er world of Islam should not been personal experience of those kind Succession and the Future The sud- ing the event. This is the full text seen as individual conflicts, but as of hates in Northern Ireland and in den seriousness with which Wash- Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir of the keynote delivered by Lord part of and preludes to, this larger Bosnia. These sentiments may be ington has woken up to what has Paddy Ashdown Middle East Moni- confrontation between Iran and Sau- odious, but amongst most ordinary happened recently in Lebanon, hav- Graphic-Designers: tor’s “Saudi in Crisis conference” in di Arabia. The radicalisation of the people they are sincerely felt. My ing been completely asleep to what London, on November 18, 2017 In “Sunni Umma” promoted, assisted quarrel lies less with the misguided was happening in Yemen, seems to Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada foreign affairs, having a flawed and funded by Saud Arabian and Gulf individuals who feel driven to be the indicate that that moment is very model for viewing the world is near- elements, if not specifically by their actors in these tragedies, than with near. So why should this bother us in Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: ly always the prelude to having Governments, is not any longer tar- those behind them who use religion Britain? Haven’t we got enough on Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 flawed policies which end in failure. geted on us in the West as we liked to drive the conflict. The reality is our plate fighting our own war with The West cannot shake itself from to believe. Its real target is, no longer that in almost all great so-called re- the EU? Is this not just another far Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan the view that we still rule the world the Great Satan in Washington, but ligious conflicts, what lies behind the away country of which we know lit- as we have done these last 400 years the Great Heretic in Tehran. Attacks shouting of the clerics is a contest tle, to adapt Chamberlain’s infamous Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 – since days of the Ottoman Em- on Washington, London and Madrid between the power of nations. It was phrase. No it is not – it is definitely pire. So we think everything that are merely a proxy to help win sup- surely obvious to any sharp eyed not. A regional proxy conflict be- Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press happens in the world is about us, the port for that wider conflict. I know observer with any knowledge of the tween Riyadh and Tehran, fired up things that are important in the it is hurtful to Western pride to think Middle East that the moment that by religious contention, is already world are only important because that these attacks on our cities were matters in the region ceased to be sowing little wars around the region. they affect us and that anywhere mere collateral damage. It is diffi- determined in the capitals of the If this finally breaks out into some- The constitution says there is a problem in the world, we cult for us to accept that we are not great western powers, a contest for thing which directly engages the two can solve it. There used to be an the main event here, only the hors who was up and who was down would contesting capitals then I think we Arabic saying: “If a dog barks in the d’oeuvre. But that is how it is. Of ensue. And that contest was likely would see a threat to the wider peace Article 88: Middle East, British intelligence is course this is not to diminish the to be between Riyadh and Tehran – of at least the same magnitude as behind it”. This is how it was and threat to us here in London – or to and the vehicle, motivator and driv- the tensions surrounding North Ko- Each of the two houses of the National Assembly shall form commissions to study issues under suggest that we should not have been er for that contest would be reli- rea, especially if, as seems almost discussion in accordance with the Regulations of Internal Duties. this is how, replacing British with American of course, we in the West taking this seriously. Terrorism in gion; just as it was in Europe in the certain, Israel becomes involved. think it still is. But it isn’t. There the name of radical Islam is a real 17th century, just as it has been in Mao Tse Tung famously called the were many, many casualties in the and present threat. Collateral casu- so many conflicts that I have been two great World Wars of the last wars of Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and alties, are no less casualties. As the involved in – from Far East, to century “The European Civil Wars”. Syria. One of them was the myth of innocents of Yemen, Iraq and Syria Northern Ireland, to Bosnia. This It is not an inaccurate or inappro- Western omnipotence and the util- know so miserably well. The casual- particular contest of power has been priate description. For it reminds us ity of having a West centric view of ties of the bomb outrages in West- a long time coming. It has been build- that, in our deeply interconnected all that happens in the world. For ern cities and the dead from the in- ing up strength, followers and caus- world, regional conflicts can have four years now – perhaps a bit long- discriminate bombing of crowded es through the proxy wars in Iraq global consequences. er – many of us have been warning suburbs in Sanaa are victims of the and Syria, the proxy insurgencies in (middleeastmonitor)

By Mohammed Yousef Hassan eties are based, which is the need for tion of unemployment in accor- launch a donor conference in which here is just a need to see Afghanistan from another picture participation of everyone in dance with the goals set by the United relevant institutions and interested As the United Nations launched its progress. This is alarming policy- Nations and taking into account the governments can discuss issues and that could be through lens of sports, education, social de Sustainable Development Agenda makers and international institu- Palestinian situation. And because ways to intervene urgently to im- for 2030, and celebrated at the Hu- tions, including United Nations Gaza needs action and is thirsty for prove the living conditions in the velopment, and so many other improvements that has been manitarian Summit the halving of agencies, and calling their attention results, and because flowers bloom Gaza Strip. Interventions should be extreme poverty in the world, we to the worsening crisis and expect- because of the rain and not thunder, based on the principle of partner- made in the past years. Must say that today Afghanistan is not the got slapped with a shocking report ed rising of the unemployment rate everyone is invited to take action ship in humanitarian action and an old one. However, still sometimes it requires a push to see bona from the Palestinian Central Bureau in the fourth quarter of 2017. The before Gaza explodes in the face of integration of roles. Relevant Pal- of Statistics on the situation of un- first objective of the sustainable de- everyone and before its social in- estinian parties must benefit from fide and talent to someone which is behind imagination. Afghan- employment in the Gaza Strip. In- velopment plan is to eradicate pov- tegrity collapses. If that happens, the thirty-third meeting of the min- stead of witnessing an improvement erty in all its forms everywhere. the negative effects will reach ev- isters of COMCEC (Standing Com- istan is among so many other countries in the surface of this in poverty and unemployment rates, Incidentally, this goal was accom- eryone and no one will be spared. mittee for Economic and Commer- planet that its leaders and the brave nation have been making we are seeing extremely high levels panied by an image of a Palestinian What is required is emergency relief cial Cooperation of the Organisa- of unemployment which strikes the child and his family in one of the through temporary employment tion of Islamic Cooperation) which efforts to rebuild their motherland. There is no denying to the dreams of young Gazans and shat- Palestinian camps to denote pover- programmes to target the largest will be held in Istanbul this month. ters their hopes. According to the ty and need. Gaza’s poverty rates number of workers and graduates There has already been a request for fact that we are in the war, but this has never become an obstacle report, which deals with the situa- have been unprecedented as a direct who have spent the best years of convening a meeting to discuss the ahead of our progress in all fields in general, but to sports in tion of the labour force in Palestine result of a blockade of more than their lives waiting for an opportu- humanitarian situation in Palestine for the third quarter of 2017, there 11 years and an on-going aggres- nity to achieve self-fulfilment, to in general and the Gaza Strip in par- particular. Cricket and Football is the popular sports in our coun- are 243,800 unemployed people in sion that has been repeated three start a family, to contribute towards ticular. The meeting will discuss ways the Gaza Strip, representing 46.6 per times in less than six years. And now, the needs of their families and to to reduce poverty and the econom- try beside so many others that has grown up very fast, causing cent of the total unemployed Pal- a new confrontation is looming un- reduce the economic burden on their ic developments, especially in the more unity among Afghans to be further strengthened. There is estinians, where the highest unem- der the recent Israeli provocations parents. Those who will move in OIC countries. In the midst of talk- ployment rate was amongst 2-24- against the Gaza Strip. Gaza has no the direction of emergency relief ing about the need and the necessity worth mentioning that there is abundances of talented faces that year-olds at 46.9 per cent. This un- natural resources, 5,500 of its in- must not overlook the need for de- of interventions, we must remem- employment rate is the highest in dustrial facilities, which employed velopment which can improve the ber that all steps remain below the has been blemished by the war. Moreover, the happiest moment 14.5 years. According to the eighth thousands of workers, were de- economic situation through eco- required level without the complete objective of the United Nations stroyed, and people from Gaza have nomic empowerment programmes lifting of the siege imposed on the for us was when our country’s national U19 Cricket Team made Plan, “promoting sustained, inclu- no access to outside markets or for- and can achieve sustainable devel- Gaza Strip, without achieving free- history on Sunday when they trashed their Pakistani rivals to sive and sustainable economic eign investments due to the unsta- opment. And due to the importance dom of movement for its citizens, growth, full and productive employ- ble political situation. This means of temporary employment pro- and without a complete end to the scoop the Asia Youth Cup trophy. A very glad tiding for the Af- ment and decent work for all”, the that Gaza cannot address the issues grammes in their emergency form, occupation, which impedes the re- continuing lack of decent work op- of poverty, unemployment or food and the economic empowerment construction process and disrupts ghan masses and it really brought smile to the face of almost portunities is leading to the disap- insecurity alone. It needs united and fund in its developmental form, in- investment opportunities and eco- every Afghans. After so many heart-wrenching incidents, this pearance of the basic social agree- integrated efforts in regards to the ternational institutions and special- nomic development. news is just like (eid) , it is the happiest day for the Afghan and ment upon which democratic soci- fight against poverty and the reduc- ists should take the initiative and (Truthout) Muslim people around the globe, celebrating it for three days. So it was like Eid for us. Our Cricket Team won by a huge margin of 185 runs, with Ikram Ali Khelof making a century, and he was called man of the match—really deserving. This comes after our country’s national team defeated UAE, Pakistan and in the Semi-finals Nepal during the group competition. Minutes af- ter their win, President Ashraf Ghani, CEO Abdullah Abdullah, and all Afghans from high-ranking government officials to the commoners congratulated the victory with so many success wish- es. So this is new picture to be seen from different outlook. Not Afghan masses only in cricket or football, but in all sports we are very much good and our sportsmen and women have brought several med- als, including gold to our country. We, as Afghan masses highly appreciate and encourage them for a method they adopted to show new face of Afghanistan to the world. Sport is the best platform to show new face of our country and our sportsmen/ women are doing this very professionally—really gratefully to them. It’s worth mentioning that we can put a halt to the ongoing war in Afghanistan through sports, and one day we will bring peace and stability via lens of sports. Once again it feels proud to congratulate our cricket heroes who clinched historic win against Pakistan and lifts the trophy for the first time in the histo- ry.

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ment, Mohammad Shtayyeh, Fatah Central Committee member and one is also of the candidates to succeed Abbas, told me, "Reconciliation will not be a railway for a regional political By Ibrahim Fraihat project at the expense of the Pales- con fr on t in g tinian cause." Saudi's demands have put the Palestinian president is a Driven by succession plans and a very difficult position, as his peo- strategy to confront Iran's influence ple would overwhelmingly reject the it s fat e in the Arab region, Saudi Crown stipulations of the Kushner deal. Prince Mohammed Bin Salman This situation is reminiscent of his is marketed. Since Lebanon is under (MBS) has engaged in several taboo- predecessor, Yasser Arafat's, dilem- By Abdulrahman al-Rashed Hezbollah’s control, almost all of breaking steps. These include the ma at Camp David in 2000, when the Houthis’ non-military activities arrest of dozens of princes and min- he faced US pressure to accept Ehud are managed from Lebanon and not isters and a process of normalising Barak's plan offering partial Israeli Lebanon’s influence exceeds popu- from Yemen. These activities in- relations, at least partially, with Is- withdrawal from the West Bank and lation and geography standards al- clude political, legal and media cam- rael. But taking concrete measures Gaza. Immediately after the Camp though it is a very small country paigns against Saudi Arabia and the to end the Arab boycott of Israel, David Accords, Arafat was sidelined (Kuwait’s area is almost two times coalition and accusations that without reaching a just solution to and, two years later, died mysteri- more than Lebanon’s). Due to its they’ve caused famine and cholera the Palestinian issue first, will be ously. To what extent Abbas will be many crises and problems, its lead- and targeted civilians. Beirut was detrimental to both Palestine and able to resist US-Saudi pressure and ers and political groups as well as also a hideout for politicians who Saudi Arabia. On Thursday, the Is- hang on to his presidency is yet to regional and international powers rebelled against Maliki and a center raeli army's chief-of-staff, Gadi Ei- be seen. What is clear, however, is could not get it out of the path of of activities opposing his govern- zenkot, gave the first-ever inter- that Saudi Arabia will proceed with crises in the region. An example is ment. It also turned out that hun- view to a Saudi news outlet, saying its normalisation efforts with Isra- the escalation we’ve seen by some dreds of millions of dollars went to that Israel is ready to share intelli- el, with or without Abbas. The way government officials, like the for- Hezbollah amid circumstances that gence with Saudi Arabia on Iran. Also MBS is managing succession at eign minister and the president him- remain unclear. Lebanon was an for the first time, Israel co-spon- home and escalation with Iran self, when dealing with Saad Hariri’s important arena for the Syrian war sored with Saudi Arabia a resolution abroad suggests that he is up for recent resignation as prime minis- and for intelligence, recruitment and against Syria in the UN Human making radical decisions. But his ter. It seems quite strange that those propaganda-related activities. Most Rights Council last week. Further- move on Israel might not work as defending him are his enemies and conflicts look for a suitable envi- more, Israeli Communications Min- in the Islamic world being delegiti- tactical gains for the Palestinians, Abbas further, Saudi Arabia report- well as some of his other bold poli- political rivals. However, they are ronment and proper circumstances ister Ayoub Kara extended a warm mised. Abbas' cooperation is essen- such as financial assistance, prison- edly summoned his bitter enemy, cies have. In fact, he might end up probably pushed to do so by a party that are available in Lebanon which invitation to Saudi Arabia's Grand tial for Saudi-Israeli normalisation ers' release, and a silent, partial freeze Mohammed Dahlan, to Riyadh at shooting himself in the foot. Push- that has disagreements with Saudi is an open country with a weak cen- Mufti, Abdul Aziz Al Sheikh, to visit to proceed; without it, the Saudi of settlement activities outside the the same time he was there. The ing through with the Kushner deal Arabia, like the Qatari or Iranian tral authority and whose people have Israel for what he said were his move would be seen as a betrayal to large settlement blocs. The Kush- purpose of the move was supposed- would mean acting against the con- government. Iran intends to fully different affiliations. Regional coun- friendly comments about the coun- the Arab and Muslim position on ner deal will practically fragment the ly to have the two discuss Fatah's sensus of Arab and Muslim countries, control Lebanon after it imposed tries must thus defend their pres- try. To "legitimise" steps taken to Palestine. Although not much has Saudi-sponsored 2002 Arab Peace internal "reconciliation". In other which reject normalisation with Is- its presence by force in Syria. Leba- ence and deal with the Lebanese re- normalise relations with Israel, Sau- been revealed about what really hap- Plan that offered Israel full normal- words, Saudi Arabia brought Dahlan rael without a fair and just solution non has always been a regional are- ality. There are allies and rivals and di Arabia summoned Palestinian Au- pened during Abbas' visit to Riyadh, isation in return for full withdrawal into the scene in case the PA presi- to the Palestinian cause. Saudi Ara- na where powers fought. Arab pow- there are no permanent alliances thority President Mahmoud Abbas some reports talk about the Saudi from Arab lands occupied in 1967. dent rejects the Kushner deal. In what bia might receive support from coun- ers have previously confronted one regardless of the sectarian, ideolog- to Riyadh last week, to convince leadership pressuring Abbas to ac- By pressuring Abbas to accept the could be interpreted as a sign of re- tries like the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, another in Lebanon. Late Egyptian ical or familial ties. Saudi Arabia’s him to accept a peace plan put for- cept whatever plan Kushner puts deal, the Saudi leadership is under- sistance to the Saudi pressure, some and Jordan, but not from the rest of President Gamal Abdelnasser had to major and chronic problem in Leb- ward by US President Donald forward, or to resign. Abbas is in an mining its own initiative, accepting commentators in the West Bank and the 57 Muslim-majority member use Lebanon after he realized that it anon is that Iran as represented by Trump's special adviser, Jared Kush- unenviable position, as pressure on to partially normalise relations with Gaza observed that upon his return states of the Organization of Islam- was the center that will defy his Hezbollah and this is a problem for ner. Saudi-Israeli collaboration is an him is likely to increase when Kush- Israel in exchange for an alliance to Ramallah, Abbas started cracking ic Cooperation (OIC). Kuwait, for project against his rivals in Syria and most of the region’s countries and integral part of that plan. Accord- ner's plan is released in the not-so- against Iran. Moreover, the Saudi down on Dahlan's supporters. Just a example, is already holding anti- the Gulf. Iran’s Khomeini used Leb- the world. Riyadh has focused on ing to the New York Times, the pro- distant future. He needs Saudi and normalisation plan is likely to fur- few days later, another blow was normalisation activities at home. If anon against the US by resorting to an important message which is that posal could include, among other US financial support for the Pales- ther complicate internal Palestin- dealt to the PA. On Sunday, the US MBS proceeds with the plan, he risks explosions and assassinations. Syria Lebanon cannot be left as a prey normalisation measures, "over- tinian Authority (PA) to continue ian reconciliation. Aiming to end administration announced that the Saudi Arabia's leading position in the was the country that exploited Leb- for Hezbollah. The Lebanese peo- flights by Israeli passenger planes, to function. However, the Kushner Iranian influence in Gaza, Saudi Ara- license of the PLO office in Wash- Islamic world being delegitimised. anon the most for its activities. Late ple and Arabs who underestimate visas for business people, and tele- deal will not do even minimum jus- bia's close ally, Egypt, brokered - or ington will not be renewed - this His father, King Salman, the Custo- President Hafez al-Assad and cur- Hezbollah’s project may not realize communication links" with Saudi tice to the Palestinian national as some view it, dictated - Palestin- could not be a mere coincidence. In dian of the two Holy Mosques, will rent President Bashar al-Assad jus- that Hezbollah is capable is com- Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and the UAE. project. While the deal offers stra- ian reconciliation that resulted in fact, it might be another strong sign appear to be conceding on the third tified their interference in Lebanon pletely seizing the Lebanese state’s If MBS proceeds with the plan, he tegic gains to Israel, such as ending Hamas surrendering power to the that Abbas continues to resist Saudi- holiest site for Muslims - al-Aqsa and domination despite the politi- capabilities and authorities and can- risks Saudi Arabia's leading position a Saudi Arab boycott, it offers only Palestinian Authority. To pressure US pressure. In line with this argu- Mosque in Jerusalem. (Aljazeera) cal cost they endured and said they celling all its peculiar characteris- believed that their small neighbor, tics in terms of freedoms, plurality i.e. Lebanon, is the source of threat and flexibility. Hezbollah will can- on Syria where international con- cel these independent groups, spiracies are planned and secret op- whether Christian or Sunni, if it re- erations are launched against them. sumes with its project to transform A vital role in Yemen Lebanon into an annexation of Iran. The biggest example of Lebanon as These new challenges are the re- an arena for conflicts is that it’s play- sponsibility of the Lebanese people ing a vital role in Yemen’s wars. The themselves who will find regional Iranians are using it to manage their and international support if they security, military and propaganda unite against Hezbollah or against operations. I’ve mentioned some foreign domination plans, in gener- details on the matter in my previ- al – however, if they don’t, they own promise to contain Iranian when he points out that he was dealt ous article. Beirut is the headquar- will be the first to lose in the new influence in the region. “Most ur- a terrible hand in Syria. The Obama ters of international media outlets, formula of Iran’s domination over gently .?.?. the United States must administration policy of halfhearted and it’s where news and propaganda Iraq and Syria. (Alarabiya) impose real obstacles to Tehran’s support for the Syrian rebels and pursuit of total victory by the As- wishful diplomacy backed by no le- sad regime in Syria,” the report by verage led to the situation on the the Jewish Institute for National ground today. But Trump must not Security of America states. “Time repeat Barack Obama’s mistakes. is of the essence.” First, the United “We have all sorts of cards to play States needs to declare a clear Syria here if we have the wit and wisdom policy that removes suspicions that to play them,” said former ambas- the United States is going to pull sador to Turkey Eric Edelman, the up stakes now that the Islamic State other co-chair. There is no appe- caliphate has fallen. The policy tite in the United States for a pro- should make clear that a U.S. mili- longed military mission in Syria, but tary presence will remain on the the lessons of the U.S. withdrawal ground and in the air, to ensure that from Iraq in 2011 are fresh in the the Islamic State doesn’t reemerge minds of military leaders. Defense and Assad doesn’t retake the entire Secretary Jim Mattis pledged last country, and to provide security for week that U.S. forces would remain reconstruction. Second, the Trump to prevent the emergence of “ISIS administration must increase its 2.0” and until the political process assistance to Sunni communities gets off the ground, but he stopped lucky enough to live outside Assad’s short of saying America would keep rule and help U.S.-supported local Iran’s aggression at bay. The U.S. groups hold valuable territory in national security interest is clear. Syria’s southeast. This territory can Long-term Iranian control in Syri- By Editorial Board pede hasn’t started, and Mr.?Maduro and other Venezuelan officials in- By Josh Rogin east of the Euphrates River in Syr- Iran seeks to establish from Tehran provide local communities eco- an areas liberated from the regime nomic benefits now and political and the Islamic State would cause FOR SEVERAL years Venezuela’s sist they do not intend to stop pay- ia’s southeast, as well as along the to Beirut. The agreement President ments on the more than $100?bil- While the Trump administration borders of Israel and Jordan in the Trump struck with Vladimir Putin leverage down the line. Third, the further instability, fuel extremism self-styled socialist government has United States should work with re- and prolong the crisis. “The Unit- been paying billions of dollars to lion the government and state oil celebrates a new deal meant to southwest, Iran has stated its in- in Asia was sold as a way to ensure company owe. Last week the regime freeze the battlefield in southern tention to help Bashar al-Assad re- that the liberated areas of Syria stay gional allies to stop Iran from mov- ed States Coalition with its partner Wall Street to avoid default on its Syria, the Assad regime and Iran are take all of Syria. Iranian Revolu- out of Assad’s control and to pro- ing weapons and troops into Syria. forces on the ground have been the staggering debts, even while starv- summoned bondholders to Caracas preparing for the next phase of the tionary Guard Corps commander vide for the exit of foreign fight- That would require interdicting ship- key to defeating ISIS, but liberat- ing its people of vital imports of to say it wished to restructure and long-running war, in which they will Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani has ers. But Russian Foreign Minister ments by sea and ensuring that U.S.- ing Syrians from ISIS into the hands food and medicine. Now that un- refinance the debt. But it offered no attempt to conquer the rest of the been recently spotted in the east- Sergei Lavrov said Moscow has no supported forces control key bor- of Iran will only perpetuate radi- likely policy, one of the last ways in plan to do so, and it has missed a country. Whether Iran succeeds ern Syrian city of Deir al-Zour, intention of pushing Iran to re- der towns in Syria and Iraq. Such calization in the country,” said which the government of Nicolás string of recent payment deadlines. depends largely on whether the showing how high a priority it is move its troops from Syria. So what moves could check Iranian aggres- Mouaz Moustafa, executive direc- Maduro distinguished itself from the With just $10 billion left in its re- United States acknowledges and for Iran to take the oil-rich land can be done? A task force of senior sion without triggering armed con- tor of the Syrian Emergency Task world’s pariah regimes, appears to serves, it looks unlikely to cover then counters that strategy. Tehran nearby. Soleimani has also been former U.S. diplomatic and mili- flict with Tehran. “We need to cut Force. We are constantly told there be crumbling. Last week, ratings the more than $8 billion it owes in is pouring thousands of fighters into spotted near the town of Abu Ka- tary officials has come up with sug- off Iran’s ability to build a crescent is no military solution to the Syri- agencies declared Venezuela and its the next year. Most financial ana- newly acquired territories and build- mal, which sits just across the bor- gestions for how Trump could pre- of influence,” said the task force an crisis, which is true. What’s also state oil company to be in selective lysts say a full default is inevitable, ing military bases. Although U.S.- der from the Iraqi city of Qaim and vent Iran from taking over what’s co-chair, retired Air Force General true is that no diplomatic solution default, a step that could trigger a either now or within months. Be- supported forces hold territories is the last piece of the land bridge left of liberated Syria and fulfill his Charles Wald. “We need to contin- is possible while Iran and Assad are cascade of other judgments and send hind the numbers lies a staggering ue to build our coalition with coun- still pursuing military victory and creditors racing to seize the coun- tale of corruption and malfeasance. tries of like mind.” Trump is right getting away with it. (WP) try’s foreign assets. So far that stam- The regime of Hugo Chávez and its successor borrowed breathtaking sums even while raking in record LETTER TO THE EDITOR revenue from oil exports. Almost all this windfall of more than $1?tril- lion was squandered or stolen. When Glimpseof apost-Americanworld petroleum prices fell, Mr. Maduro had to choose between coupon pay- By Nathan Gardels rivals, it’s gradually losing the main choices.” On this score, the incipi- ments and food supplies. He chose battle that is defining this century: ent “Indo-Pacific” strategy trotted Wall Street, thereby exacerbating a Current Crisis Events this week on opposite sides trade and investment,” he says. out by Trump on his tour is moving humanitarian catastrophe: A major- of the planet offered a glimpse of “Meanwhile, China is busy shaping in the opposite direction. As Gur- ity of the country’s 30 million peo- The current disputes between the two leaders of the National Unity Government has created several what a post-American world might the world in its own image with preet S. Khurana writes from New ple say they have lost weight due to challenges in the country. Insecurity and unemployment is a good example of it. look like. In Bonn, Germany, na- verve and vigor. In a surreal twist of Delhi, “‘Indo-Pacific,’ as Trump a lack of food, and some 500,000 Afghan masses are blaming the NUG government over not delivering to the promises made during tions of the world gathered togeth- events, a communist regime has now uses it, implies a new configuration people fled the country in the past election campaign. They pledged several thing including reforms, elimination of poverty, job opportunity, er at a summit to chart the path emerged as the unlikely guardian of in which India and America, along two years. The regime’s reluctance and the most important one maintaining security in the already fragile security station of the country. Not ahead on fighting climate change globalization and multilateral diplo- with the other major democratic to default reflects a healthy fear of only, they failed to translate promises into action, but they created several challenges too. Current disputes through implementing the Paris ac- macy.” Evaluating Trump’s 12-day nations in Asia — Japan and Austra- the possible consequences. Venezu- between NUG leaders is a clear sign of mistrust between them. How they can control Afghanistan when cord, which U.S. President Donald Asia tour, former Australian Prime lia especially — join to contain ela has substantial assets abroad, in- Trump has rejected. At the APEC Minster Kevin Rudd also sees that China’s growing influence in an up- cluding the oil company Citgo and they can’t resolve their problems. America’s retreat means that other dated version of the Cold War.” A the refineries it operates in the Unit- Taliban insurgents attacked several district of the provinces. They (Taliban) captured some districts meeting in Danang, Vietnam, 11 Pacific Basin countries, led by Ja- nations will set the agenda. “The captain in the Indian Navy and a ed States. If these, along with Vene- too. Though it was for short period of time, but left residents at huge problems. pan, decided to push ahead on a U.S. has ceded regional economic maritime strategist, Khurana is cred- zuela’s tankers, are seized, the gov- Security forces are fighting insurgency with strong intention, what they need is the support from the multilateral trade agreement that leadership separately to China and ited with first using the term “Indo- ernment could lose its last econom- leaders of the NUG. Leaders are supporting them, but it is no sufficient. They (Afghan forces) needs more would substitute for the Trans-Pa- Japan for the foreseeable future at Pacific” in a 2007 essay. Since both ic lifeline. Of course, Mr. Maduro support and encouragement. cific Partnership that the Trump ad- least,” he writes. Inevitably, the eco- China and Japan get around 80 per- could service Venezuela’s debts and Farhan Khan, Kabul Afghanistan ministration has pulled out of. A nomic fate of the region bleeds over cent of their oil supplies through feed his people if he were willing to year into his presidency, Trump and into security issues. “There is also the Malacca Strait, he argues, the seek help from the International his “America first” policies at home the question of how to manage the Indian Ocean area and the western Monetary Fund, as well as humani- have yet to yield any significant danger of a broader bifurcation of Pacific should be considered one in- tarian aid, and take elementary steps Letter to editor will be edited for policy, content and clarity. All letters must benefits for the “left behind” he the region between Chinese and tegrated region. And, as both the to stabilize the economy. But the have the writer’s name and address. You may send your letters to: championed during his election cam- American spheres of influence,” Indian and Chinese economies are only foreign help he seeks is that of [email protected] paign. Abroad, it appears that it is Rudd warns. “Such a process is in- among the fastest-growing in the Cuba’s hard-line intelligence appa- America itself that is being left be- herently destabilizing. Indeed, re- world, tighter links between South ratus, which pushes him toward to- hind. “During President Donald gional governments are feeling the and East Asia will inexorably devel- talitarianism, and Russia, which in Trump’s first official Asia tour,” pressure to choose.” Rudd’s concern op. But Trump’s twist of the con- its zeal to back any anti-American Richard Javad Heydarian writes from brings to mind a wise adage from cept, says Khurana, “departs signif- cause has bailed him out several Manila, “the precipitous erosion of Singapore’s former foreign minis- icantly from its original meaning times — and announced another Disclaimer: America’s decades-long hegemony ter George Yeo: “While Asian coun- and intent. My intention was to re- deal to refinance its loans last week. in the region has been painfully ap- tries might value the U.S. as a friend, conceptualize how Asian nations are The Trump administration, for its The views and opinions expressed in the articles are parent.” Heydarian notes how the no one wants China as an enemy.” actually linked together from the part, has helped force Mr. Maduro those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views or U.S. presence in Asia is becoming Rudd’s advice for escaping this di- Indian Ocean to the Pacific, and I into bankruptcy by banning U.S. critically unbalanced. “While Amer- lemma is “to form a more resilient wanted to emphasize the overarch- traders from further dealings with opinions of the Afghanistan Times. ica continues to maintain a signifi- regional security architecture that ing goal of preserving global and Venezuelan debt. cant military edge over its closest escapes brittle, binary strategic regional stability through. (WP) TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES Nor t h Kor ea lik ely t o rectly from its coasts, where it is conducting smuggling operations and many other activities, but it lau n ch has many arms in the region,” Shaikh Khalid said, adding that Iran’s biggest arm in the region is Cairo : Iran poses a serious threat Hezbollah’s terrorist wing, which b allist ic to the region, Minister of Foreign is located in the Lebanese Repub- Affairs Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed lic, the Republic of Iraq and the bin Mohammed Al Khalifa told Syrian Arab Republic among oth- Arab League’s extraordinary ses- m issile er places. “Iran is the great chal- sion yesterday, pointing out that lenge to the Arab national securi- the missile that targeted Riyadh ty, which is exposed to a state that was not the first attack on Saudi is trying to clearly overthrow and b efor e Arabia by parties operating in control countries, and does not favour of Iran in the region such as hesitate to take any action to reach the Houthis. The meeting at the this goal,” Shaikh Khalid said. He headquarters of the Arab League year -en d : pointed out that everyone bears in Cairo was held to discuss ways responsibility, and that the Leba- to address Iranian interference in nese Republic, which is a brother- the internal affairs of Arab states. ly Arab country that is loved and sp y agen cy The Foreign Minister added that appreciated, is under full control the bombing of an oil pipeline in of the terrorist Hezbollah, which North Korea is highly likely to a rare inspection of military per- the Kingdom of Bahrain was not is not only targeting acts within launch different types of ballistic sonnel for their “haughty atti- the first attack, but comes as part the borders of Lebanon, but cross- missiles before the end of this year tudes,” which appears to be a first of a series of long attacks that cost es the borders to all Arab states. to underline its nuclear threats, in two decades. “North’s leader- the Kingdom of Bahrain thousands “We must be clear in this regard, South Korea’s spy agency said ship is conducting an inspection security men and citizens, and all we do not talk about Arab differ- Monday. Active movements are on their military’s General Politi- those crimes were perpetrated by ences, we talk about threats to us continuously being spotted around cal Bureau. The NIS said they Iranian agents in the region. Shaikh all, and if we do not take this issue the missile development institutes found out that Hwang Pyong-so Khalid warned that there is a seri- seriously, we will be deficient,” in North Korea and it has also con- and Kim Won-hong, the bureau’s ous escalation of Iranian practices Shaikh Khalid said. The Foreign ducted engine tests for missiles, the chief and deputy chief, were pun- in the region, which puts every- Affairs Minister expressed hope National Intelligence Service told ished,” Rep. Kim Byung-kee of one in front of a great responsibil- that joint Arab action will be more lawmakers in a closed-door parlia- the ruling Democratic Party of ity, which is the responsibility of effective in establishing security mentary meeting. “While there has Korea said. While he confirmed that maintaining Arab national securi- and stability in the region and in not been any imminent sign of con- the agency is aware of the level of ty through the only mechanism, maintaining Arab national securi- ducting nuclear tests in the Pung- punishment, he said it cannot be the mechanism of joint Arab ac- ty. gye-ri test site, the NIS sees it is revealed. Rep. Kim explained that tion. “Iran is not only fighting di- (WP) possible for the North to conduct the censorship was led by Choe one anytime -- whenever Kim Ryong-hae, the vice chairman of Jong-un makes the decision,” Rep. the North’s ruling Workers’ Party, Yi Wan-young, of the main oppo- and that it is not a complete over- Millions in Yemen face death sition Liberty Korea Party and a haul of the military body. North member of the Intelligence Com- Korea is also making great efforts mittee, told reporters after a ses- to secure the livelihoods of people due to Saudi blockade: WFP sion at the National Assembly. following stricter international According to the NIS, the second sanctions recently imposed. They portal at the Punggye-ri test site came up with a daily report sys- has been left inactive, but the third tem to watch over living difficul- portal appears to be fully ready ties, and have banned people from for a detonation. The construction drinking and holding private gath- of the fourth portal has recently erings, the lawmaker said. Censor- UNSC resolutions demanding been resumed, the lawmaker add- ship on distribution of information ed, citing an NIS briefing. The in- has also been reinforced, the NIS liberation of Azerbaijani lands telligence agency also reported the reported. under discussion: Russian FM communist regime has conducted (AFP) The UN Security Council resolu- quire certain efforts,” Lavrov said tions demanding the liberation of at a joint press conference with his Azerbaijani lands are being dis- Azerbaijani counterpart Elmar Sou r ce: Zim b abw e's cussed, said Russian Foreign Min- Mammadyarov in Baku, APA re- ister Sergey Lavrov. “These reso- ports. Russia’s top diplomat lutions contain some items which stressed the need for a negotiated Mu gab e agr ees have never caused doubt. Howev- and peaceful solution to the Nagor- er, there are some issues that re- no-Karabakh conflict. (AP) t o t er m s of The World Food Program says Sau- seven million are totally dependent children, will die” and that its par- Number of BP’s Azerbaijani national di Arabia's continued blockade on food aid. On November 6, Sau- tial lifting was not enough. Ander- threatens the lives of millions in di Arabia announced that it was son said from Sana’a that humani- r esign at ion employees declining Yemen as aid deliveries cannot get shutting down Yemen’s air, sea, tarian flights to the northern to the needy. Stephen Anderson, the and land borders, after Yemeni Houthi-held part of Yemen have At the end of the third quarter of team. BP remains committed to head of the World Food Program, fighters targeted an international been grounded amid the siege. Saudi 2017, the number of BP’s Azer- achieving a nationalization target on Monday described as "heart- airport near the Saudi capital with Arabia has been incessantly baijani national employees was of 90 percent for professional staff breaking" the fact that millions in a cruise missile. The United Na- pounding Yemen since March 2015 2,739 including fixed-term em- by the end of 2018. This envisag- Yemen depend on sustained access tions made a plea for the Saudi war in an attempt to crush the Houthi ployees. According to BP-Azer- es nationalizing some profession- to humanitarian assistance. Of a machine to remove its blockade, Ansarullah movement and rein- baijan, 85 percent of BP’s profes- al roles that are currently occupied population of 26 million, some 17 warning that without aid ship- state former President Abd Rab- sional employees in Azerbaijan are by expatriate employees. Non- million Yemenis do not know where ments “untold thousands of inno- buh Mansur Hadi, who is a nationals and many of them are in professional staff of BP in Azer- their next meal is coming from and cent victims, among them many staunch ally of the Riyadh regime. senior positions, including six baijan is already 100 percent na- members of the regional leadership tionalized. (Trend) Kyrgyzstan: Outgoing PKKleader challenges Erdogan president pledges to continue toinvadeAfrin,Qandil playing role in politics Responding to Turkish President An official source with direct that for a resignation to take place, Kyrgyzstan’s president has in his whether he intends or hopes to take Recep Tayyip Erdogan's recent knowledge of negotiations says a letter must first be sent to the final press conference before leav- up a seat in parliament or not, vows to invade the Kurdish enclave that Zimbabwe leader Robert speaker of Parliament. A defiant ing office dangled the prospect that however. Atambayev is making of Afrin in Syria and the Qandil Mugabe has agreed to the terms of Mugabe stunned the nation he has he may run for parliament as the history by becoming the first elect- mountains in Iraq, Cemil Bayik, a his resignation and a letter has been ruled for 37 years Sunday when list-topping candidate for the rul- ed president in Kyrgyzstan to step top leader of the Kurdistan Work- drafted. The source said generals he refused to say in a nationally ing Social Democratic Party, or aside for another elected succes- ers Party (PKK) said any cross- had given into many of Mugabe's televised address if he was step- SDPK. “I don’t plan to become sor, Sooronbai Jeenbekov, who is border operation could prove a demands including full immunity ping down. chairman of parliament or the gov- set to be officially sworn into of- quagmire for Ankara. "If the Turk- for himself and his wife Grace, and His party had given Mugabe, who ernment, or even a member of par- fice on November 24. Jeenbekov ish state were strong, they would also that he would keep his pri- has been under house arrest since liament, but I will be number one,” won elections in a single round last not engage in this war. They now vate properties. The source added the military seized power Wednes- Almazbek Atambayev said in his month by exceeding the required want to come [to fight], let them that the generals' aim with Sunday's day, 24 hours to resign or be im- most explicit indication so far that 50 percent vote threshold. There come. Nobody is trying to stop televised address was to get peached, and thousands of Zim- he intends to occupy an impor- has been much speculation that the them," Bayik - also a founding mem- Mugabe to declare the military's babweans had taken to the streets tant role in Kyrgyz political life. country’s unicameral parliament ber of the outlawed PKK - told the actions constitutional and that he Saturday calling for him to go. It was not wholly clear from the could be dissolved early for snap Kurdish Ronahi TV. "Any [Turk- accepted them. The source said (WP) somewhat contradictory remarks elections. ish] incursion to Qandil will serve the Kurdish people," Bayik said about Turkish intentions to dislodge Azerbaijan, Tajikistan to his group from the mountain range along the Iraq-Iran border. Erdogan US-led Coalition has not given up the double-dealing resume air traffic between earlier this month promised to "level Qandil to the ground." His hawk- withterroristsinSyria,Russiandiplomat capitals ish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu vowed to "perch on Qandil Russian Permanent Representative sian Aerospace Forces had revealed Regular air traffic between the cap- Dushanbe route was reached dur- and smash" PKK sanctuaries and to the UN Office and Other Inter- direct interaction between the US- itals of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan ing a working visit of a delegation camps there that comprise thou- national Organizations in Geneva, led coalition and Daesh (ISIS) and will be resumed from December of the Somon Air and TALCO in sands of fighters. As Ankara pur- Alexey Borodavkin said Monday support offered to it by this coali- 2017, Tajik news agency Asia-Plus Baku. This issue was discussed sues a more proactive military strat- that the alleged US-led coalition tion. In a relevant context, Boro- reported Nov. 20 citing sources in during a meeting of the Tajik dele- egy within its borders and abroad has not given up the double-deal- davkin underlined that essentially, Tajik Aluminium Company (TAL- gation with the President of Azer- against the PKK, the 33 year-long ing with terrorists in Syria. “In vi- the opposition should adhere to at CO Inc). Reportedly, the agree- baijan Airlines CJSC Jahangir on and off conflict intensified since olation of UN Security Council the talks are visible,” the diplomat ment on launching regular flights Askarov, Director of Buta Airways the collapse of peace talks two resolutions, the funding of armed said. “These are support for the of Tajikistan’s Somon Air compa- Jamil Manizade and First Vice- years ago. jihadists from abroad continues,” cessation of hostilities and the de- ny from December 2017 on the President of Silk Way Airlines The end of the 2013-2015 talks and Russian TASS News Agency quot- escalation zones, commitment to Dushanbe-Baku-Frankfurt-Baku- Teymur Mammadov. ceasefire led to a Turkish state ed Borodavkin as saying, adding the fight against Daesh and Jabhat crackdown that has effectively par- that “The US-led Western coali- al-Nusra terrorist organizations alyzed the civilian Kurdish move- tion has never given up the dou- and willingness to hold talks with Russia launches oil supply ment, namely the Peoples' Demo- ble-dealing with terrorists in Syr- the Syrian government on the as- cratic Party (HDP) whose Co-lead- ia.” On November 14, the Russian pects of the political reform under to Uzbekistan in test mode er Selahattin Demirtas and ten oth- Defense Ministry reported that UN Security Council Resolution Russia has launched oil supplies er lawmakers remain in prison along the operation to liberate the city 2254 and abandoning any precon- 30,000 tons per month, but may with 80 mayors and over six thou- in test mode to Uzbekistan, where of al-Boukamal carried by Syrian ditions. be increased to 2,000 tons per day sand members. With the rise of the Arab Army backed by the Rus- (BBC) it is planned to launch a new re- (that is, about 60,000 tons per US-backed Kurdish People's Pro- finery with a capacity of 5 mil- month) on demand. Previously, tection Units (YPG) in the war lion tons together with Gazprom Uzbekneftegaz announced that, it against the Islamic State (IS) in Syria in three years, reports Kommer- is planned to upgrade the pump- and Kurdish territorial gains there, Collapseof Germancoalition talks dents markets sant. However, to increase sup- ing to 1 million tons in 2018, but Ankara's unease has grown. Er- plies it is required to expand the Transneft explained that the tech- dogan has repeatedly threatened an Investors have been unnerved by the collapse of coalition talks in Ger- Investor.'Angela Merkel has been the glue that has held the European capacity of oil pipelines through nical capacity for pumping in this invasion of the self-declared Kurd- many, after the Free Democratic Party (FDP) walked out of discussions Union together for the past 12 years, a stable force in turbulent times. Kazakhstan, but the issue of fi- direction is about 0.5 million tons, ish canton of Afrin in northwestern over differences in migration and climate change policy. The euro slumped 'With almost unsurpassed political experience, markets will want Ger- nancing is still unclear, according since the rest of the pipeline Syria where the YPG, an extension on the news, later paring some of those losses to trade 0.4% lower many to find a quick solution, preferably one that leaves Mrs Merkel in to the agency. Russia's Transneft through Kazakhstan is occupied by of the PKK according to Turkey, against the pound at 88.9p. The pound's strength against the euro weighed situ.' Investors took heart from reports the FDP would support a mi- has launched pumping oil in the volumes of Rosneft in the direc- hold sway. "There are continuous on the FTSE 100, whose members rely on overseas markets for around nority Merkel government, which helped to lift markets from their direction of Uzbekistan through tion of China (10 million tons per operations conducted against the three-quarters of their revenues. The UK blue-chip index edged eight earlier losses. Kazakhstan via the Omsk-Pavlo- year). To provide raw materials to Kurds, sometimes militarily, other points lower to 7,373 while the German DAX 20 was down 0.1%, On the UK stock market, the big movers were to be found outside dar-Shymkent pipeline on Friday. its refineries with a total capacity times politically. But the Kurdish paring heavier losses from earlier in the session. German chancellor the FTSE 100. Further, the raw materials are of about 11 million tons, Uzbeki- question cannot be solved with de- Angela Merkel had been hoping to forge a coalition between her CDU- Among 'mid-cap' stocks, Diploma surged 8.3% to £11.59 after the planned to be transported by rail. stan imports oil, as its own pro- nialism," Bayik said, according to CSU grouping, the pro-market FDP and the leftwing Green party. industrial component distributor reported a 19% rise in full-year prof- According to the approved sched- duction is not enough for the coun- Kurdistan 24's Kurdish website. 'European equity markets have picked up where they left off last week, its. ule, the volumes will amount to try. (Akpress) (AP) heading lower,' said Rebecca O'Keeffe, head of investing at Interactive (WP) TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES Sudan’s Bashir to convene meeting over economy

Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir is expected to convene a high-level meeting today at the presidential palace to discuss the economic sta- BEIJING - China's central bank financial cycles, and that's where prudential assessment framework tus including currency fluctuations. will continue to improve its poli- macro-prudential regulation comes this year to include off-balance- Over the last week, the Sudanese cy framework, which involves the in, the People's Bank of China said sheet wealth management prod- currency kept dropping drastically use of both monetary tools and in its third-quarter monetary poli- ucts and planned to include a debt against the US dollar in the black macro-prudential regulation to ad- cy implementation report. instrument called negotiable certif- market. dress risks while supporting The combined policies make up icates of deposits in 2018. More First Vice President Bakri Hassan growth, according to an official re- the "twin pillar" framework that financial activities, markets, insti- Saleh, head of the national security port. While traditional monetary the central bank will continue to tutions and infrastructure will be and the minister of finance are ex- policy can address instability dur- improve. In a bid to address over- covered by the macro-prudential pected to attend the meeting. ing economic cycles, it alone can- all financial risks, the central bank policy framework, the report said. Japan, China, South Korea and open trading system for the region and the Plus Three countries. Dur- (BBC) not deal with fluctuations during has already widened its macro- (BBC) ASEAN countries have empha- that would allow sustainable ing their meeting in Manila, the sised the need to pursue an open growth of trade and investments," state leaders recognized the impor- trading system for the region to it said. On the other hand, the 13 tant role of private sector in en- allow sustainable growth of trade nations said it will continue coop- hancing economic cooperation in and investments, Philippine News eration on economic issues as it the East Asian region and noted Agency (PNA) reported. In a joint encouraged closer collaboration on the efforts made by the East Asia statement released on Monday, ASEAN's new priorities and Business Council (EABC) in sup- the ASEAN and the Plus Three projects through the adopted porting MSMEs to capture and Countries noted that in 2016 ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Eco- maximise the opportunities offered alone, total merchandise trade be- nomic Cooperation Work Pro- by digital trade and to find new tween the 13 states amounted to gramme 2017-2018, covering areas ways of doing business. On re- US$694.2 billion or 31 per cent of such as connectivity, micro, small search, they acknowledged the the bloc's total merchandise trade. and medium enterprises (MSMEs) countries' continuous business en- Foreign direct investment (FDI) development, trade facilitation, gagements including through the Portugal has repaid the Interna- bn repayment to IMF The pay- ing to US$26.3 billion. en year, to date". According to the flows from the Plus Three Coun- and e-commerce. The work pro- conduct of relevant research stud- tional Monetary Fund (IMF) in ment of the installment, which was Finance MInister Mario Cen- statement, the IMF's early repay- tries into ASEAN, meanwhile, was gram reinforces the foundation for ies. "We welcomed the collabora- advance by a further €2.78 billion due to be paid off in June 2020 teno's office also added that this ment plan will continue to be im- valued at US$27.1 billion, account- enhanced economic relations, tion among the EABC, ASEAN- euros, the Portuguese Finance and May 2021, was carried out on year €9.012 billion have already plemented in 2018. ing for 27.6 per cent of the total through sustained dialogue and China Centre, ASEAN-Japan Cen- Ministry said in a statement is- Thursday and, with it, "76% of been paid, which represents "the "Early repayment to the IMF is FDI inflow to ASEAN. "We em- consultations and technical coop- tre, and ASEAN-Korea Centre to sued. Portugal makes early €2.78 the IMF loan is settled," amount- maximum amount paid off, in a giv- instrumental in improving debt phasised the need to pursue an eration activities between ASEAN extend. (AP) sustainability while reducing the cost of debt and at the same time allowing for more balanced pay- ment management and increasing average maturity," it said. Nigeria: Internet Around nine million Indians are showed double digit growth in ex- lers and the Middle East region can expected to travel to the GCC by penditure in 2016 – visitor spend expect to benefit, with Indian tour- 2021, according to the latest fig- reached a total of $23.1 billion in ist arrivals expected to grow by Bank ures from Colliers International. 2016, up 15.1 year-on-year. Simon CAGR of 7-8 per cent. “We have Reports from the UNWTO sug- Press, Senior Exhibition Director, witnessed this growth first hand gest the outbound Indian travel Arabian Travel Market (ATM), with ATM 2017 welcoming 54 per- Fraudsters market will grow to 50 million by said: “Surprisingly, there are just cent more visitors from India com- 2021, with the average spend per over 65 million passport holders in pared to 2014.” The Colliers Inter- Nowin trip by Indian travellers also in- India out of a population of around national report was published as creasing – UNWTO statistics re- 1.3 billion. Still it is no surprise that destinations throughout the Middle veal India is among the top 12 the growth of the global travel in- East prepare to showcase their lat- Recession, source markets globally that dustry is being led by Asian travel- est offering at the ATM, which is being held at Dubai World Trade Centre from April 22-25, 2018. Over Says CBN the five-year period from 2012 to 2016, the average percentage of In- The Central Bank of Nigeria dian arrivals out of total arrivals in (CBN) has claimed success in Kuwait was 15.4%; Saudi Arabia, checking Internet fraudsters in the 10.6%; Bahrain, 17.6%; Oman, banking sector through various 11.2%; and UAE 9.8%. According measures to prevent hacking into to ATM’s official research partner, customers' accounts. The deputy Colliers, by 2021, this is expected governor of the apex bank in charge to increase to. of operations, Mr. Bayo Adelabu, (Reuters) who spoke at the 2017 retreat of the Nigeria Electronic Fraud Fo- rum (NeFF) held in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, said the bank would continue to sanitise the financial sector. The event was attended by top officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), U.S Consulate, Lagos, Consumers Protection Council Saudi budget (CPC) and some commercial banks. Chairman, Nigeria Electron- over time, but is still in a nascent ic Fraud Forum, Dipo Fatokun said development stage,” said Fitch in with the bank verification number report puts a statement. Another factor that in place, biometrics would soon be the agency took into account when used for transactions. "That means revising Mongolia’s credit rating if you want to transact with your was the refinancing of all near-term ATM, you will need to use your Q3 revenue external bond debt including the biometrics. There is no way you Chinggis Bond, effectively push- can give your finger to a third par- ing back any major debts until ty. If that is enabled, it will make 2020. Fitch believes that the IMF our system to be more secure and at $37.9 program was the underlying cata- make all our transactions to be val- lyst which helped bolster investor idated." Adelabu, in his keynote confidence and ultimately facilitat- address, said in the age of digitali- ed Mongolia’s refinancing of debt. zation and increased adoption of billion The ratings agency forecasts that alternate forms of payment for the GDP of Mongolia will grow goods and services, stakeholders A Saudi finance ministry budget report released on Sunday put the 4.2 percent in 2017 and 4.5 per- must ensure security of operators kingdom's total third quarter revenue at 142.1 billion riyals ($37.9 bil- cent in 2018. “Thanks to a surge and the consumers they intend to lion), up 11 percent year-on-year. The Q3 report affirmed Saudi Ara- in investment tied to the under- serve. The CBN commended the bia's commitment of transparency and financial disclosure, as key fac- ground development of the Oyu feats recorded in the last six years tors which are consistent with the Kingdom Vision 2030 and its objec- Tolgoi copper mine and a rebound by NeFF, noting that the organi- tives. The report highlights the progress in achieving the defined objec- in exports and private consump- zation in collaboration with other tives within the Financial Balance Program. The report's results showed tion, real GDP rose by 5.8 percent stakeholders has successfully im- an increase in revenues comparing with the 3rd quarter in 2016 in addi- in the third quarter of 2017.” Fitch plemented the Cybercrime Prohi- tion to rising rates of non-oil revenues with (80%) during the same also mentioned the ongoing logjam bition and Prevention Act 2015. According to him, the retreat has period. The report also highlighted that the Saudi government seeks to Fitch Ratings agency has revised Mongolia’s credit rating from B- stable to B- positive in light of an improved at the Gashuunsukhait border rationalize spending in order to benefit of its citizens positively. The crossing, which has caused coal re-enforced greater synergy among fiscal outlook and a recovering economy backed by 5.8 percent GDP growth in the third quarter of 2017. the Office of the National Securi- biggest portion of the government spending was directed to the educa- Fitch forecasts that the government’s deficit in 2017 will decrease to 7.3 percent of GDP. Moving forward in exports to China to dwindle since July 2017. However, the ratings ty Adviser (ONSA), the forum and tion sector in the first nine months in 2017. The recent figures of the 2018, the ratings agency has estimated that the government will be able to decrease budget deficit to 6.5 the entire payments industry. "At percent of GDP in part due to increasing budget revenue and minimal budget expenditure increases. “Contin- agency does not believe this will budget disclosed that the Kingdom is still in the right track in order to affect the outlook of Mongolia sig- the CBN, we shall continue to en- reach its long-scale goals with achieving balanced financial performance. ued adherence to fiscal targets and reforms aimed at curtailing off-budget expenditure and introducing greater sure a safe, reliable, secure and ef- independence to the budgeting process should lay a path towards a more robust and credible fiscal framework nificantly. (Alarabiya) (AFP) ficient payment system. (BBC) TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES Natasa Stankovic gives another hit dance number! The new song released from the upcoming film Fukrey Returns 'O Meri Mehbooba' is climbing all music charts rapidly with several million views within few hours of release. The song has hit 5 million views. The centre piece of the peppy track is Model/actress Natasa Stankovic who is looking stunning in the video. It's seems the beau- tiful Serbian import is slowly becoming synonymous with hit songs; we first saw her in Badshah's monstrous Hit DJ Waley Babu and then the Quirky Zindagi Meri Mance from Arjun Rampal's Biopic on Arun Gawli. Here's wishing we see more of this beauty in the coming year.?? (Santa Banta) Student of the Year 2: Karan Johar unveils first poster starring Tiger Shroff, but who’s the female lead?

Amid protests in several states responsible, law-abiding corporate across the country, the makers of citizen and have the highest re- film Padmavati has postponed the spect and regard for the law of the Karan Johar on Monday unveiled the first poster of Student of the Year 2, a sequel to release date of the film. In an offi- land and all our institutions and his 2012 romantic comedy starring Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Sidharth Malhotra. cial statement by Viacom18 Mo- statutory bodies including the The new film will star Tiger Shroff but the female lead has been kept a secret. Rumours tion Pictures said we had decided Central Board of Film Certifica- suggest that Disha Patani or Ananya Panday are in the running. In the poster, we see to put off the release and new date tion. We always have and are com- Tiger reclining on the film’s title. The tagline reads, “Admissions open, 2018.” Punit will be announced in due course. mitted to continue following the Malhotra will take over from Johar as director. Johar will produce through his Dharma "The studio has voluntarily de- established procedure and conven- Productions banner. He tweeted, “The FRANCHISE continues!!!! The college opens ferred the release date of Padma- tion. We have faith that we will its doors to a new Student! @iTIGERSHROFF #StudentOfTheYear2 directed by vati from 1 December, 2017. Along soon obtain the requisite clearanc- @punitdmalhotra @foxstarhindi @DharmaMovies @apoorvamehta18 ....” with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, es to release the film. We will an- As far as Tiger’s female co-star in the film is concerned, everyone from Sara Ali amongst the most gifted film mak- nounce the revised release date of Khan to Disha Patani to Ananya Panday have been mentioned. Sara has since gone on ers of his generation, Viacom18 the film in due course. We stand to sign for Kedarnath opposite Sushant Singh Rajput. It will mark her Bollywood Motion Pictures has created a firm in our commitment to tell en- debut. The first film, which went on to make Rs 70 crore at the box office, celebrated beautiful cinematic masterpiece in dearing tales that resonate with our its 5 year anniversary on October 20. Padmavati that captures Rajput audiences the world over as we (Tribune) valor, dignity and tradition in all have in the past with our other its glory. The film is an eloquent projects such as Toilet: Ek Prem portrayal of a tale that will fill ev- Katha, Queen, Bhaag Milkha ery Indian with pride and show- Bhaag and many more." the state- Justice League’s Rs 8 case our country's story-telling ment said. prowess across the globe. We are a (Santa Banta) crore India debut trails Thor, film’s a ‘major disappointment’ at box office In addition to its disappointing international debut, DC’s Justice League trailed far behind the opening weekend tally of Marvel’s Thor: Event or no event, nowadays, taking self- or Muslim with an Israeli does not reflect ies is considered a norm… but not if agreement with the policy of [Israel’s for- Ragnarok. you’re Miss Iraq and Miss Isreal. Miss eign ministry] of hostility towards human- Iraq Sarah Eedan, posted a selfie with fel- ity and peace issues.” In response to the low contestant Miss Israel Adar Gandels- criticism, Ms Eedan issued a statement on man, during the Miss Universe beauty Instagram, saying Miss Israel had ap- pageant without realising the chaos it proached her at a photo shoot and ex- would create on social media. Gandels- pressed her hope for peace between their man also shared a similar photo on her two peoples. “She asked if I would like to Instagram handle calling Miss Iraq “amaz- take a picture together. I told her I would be ing”. Her post was liked over 4,000 times. glad to help spread the message. The aim of Eedan took to Facebook to express how the photo was an expression of hope for honoured she was to be the first Iraqi world peace.”Have to reciprocate the love: woman in 40 years to be representing her Sushmita Sen during Miss Universe 2017 country in the competition. Given there She went on to say the photo did not show are no diplomatic relations between Israel support for Israel, “I would like to apolo- and Iraq, it was pointed out by some, in- gise to anyone who considered the photo cluding YouTuber Sabrina Bennoui, post- to be offensive to the Palestinian cause as ing a photo of the two of them together this was not the aim behind the post, it was was “not to everyone’s taste,” reported merely a call to peace and hope for a solu- BBC. Some in the Arab world who accuse tion to the crisis.” However, in Israel, the Israel of abuses reacted angrily. Asaad Prime Minster’s spokesperson, Ofir Gen- Abukhalil, a professor based in the US, delman praised the photo, calling it a “great tweeted: “The beauty queen of Iraq is message of hope for the region”. The Times happily posing with the beauty queen of of Israel described the post as “an unusual occupation and brutality.” But Iraqi ac- display of coexistence emanating from a tivist @Alaa tweeted: “A photo of an Arab divided Middle East.” (Tribune)

It might have scored top of the the DC Comics superheroes team North American box office, but -- sees a mash-up of classic char- Justice League didn’t have the su- acters fend off the threat of super- per opening weekend predicted, villain Steppenwolf (Ciaran falling short of expectations with Hinds). The big-budget Warner The Delhi boy from Defence takings of $96 million, according Bros. production -- which fared to industry estimates released Sun- better internationally, taking $185 day. In addition, the film opened million -- was forecast to earn $110 to Rs 8 crore in India on Friday, million in North American cinemas, Colony is still not out of my reports Forbes. “Justice League according to Variety. Writing on won’t match Thor: Ragnarok’s ?34 Twitter, industry analyst Exhibi- crore/$5.2 million opening week- tor Relations -- which released the system: Sidharth Malhotra end tally in India, the 2nd best for estimates -- said Justice League a Hollywood import this year be- “may be the first film to debut w/ hind the 41.7 crore debut of Mar- $96M that feels like a major dis- High on the success of Ittefaq, actor Sidharth Malhotra says the ‘struggling Delhi vel’s Spider-Man: Homecoming,” appointment.” The film’s largest boy’ is still there as he has the same ‘hunger and anxiety’ even now; adds there’s reported Forbes. With an all-star international opening came from “nothing to clarify, accept or deny” vis-à-vis his equation with Alia Bhatt. cast including Gal Gadot as Won- China, where the film made over der Woman, Ben Affleck as Bat- $50 million. It’s also trailing be- man and Henry Cavill as Super- hind 2016’s Batman v Superman He is getting rave reviews for a in. I am still a young actor who is man, Justice League -- based on and 2017’s Wonder Woman. strong outing in his latest release, still learning. That process is not Ittefaq. And coincidentally, it’s all over. There is so much to absorb, happening in 2017 when Sidharth understand and use. I feel now is Malhotra completes five years in the beginning for me. With Ittefaq, Bollywood. Although his two I have learnt to try something dif- films, Baar Baar Dekho and A Gen- ferent. So I am in that early phase tleman didn’t do well at the box of maturing. The struggling Delhi office, Sidharth is “excited” about boy in me is still not out (smiles), Ittefaq’s success, especially since so I still have the hunger and anxi- it wasn’t promoted like a usual ety to keep challenging [myself] Hindi film. “I was feeling a bit and try new things. I don’t look at A new song titled Peh Gaya Khalara from upcom- benchers, Hunny played by Pul- guilty. I was wondering whether five years as a benchmark at all. I ing film Fukrey Returns, a sequel to the hit 2013 kit Samrat and Choocha (Varun we are doing the right thing or not. feel the journey is still very long, film, was released on Tuesday. The song, featur- Sharma), apart from a struggling Now, in hindsight, I feel it was a and this is just the beginning. Ab- ing Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma, Ali Fazal, Man- musician (Ali Fazal) Lali (Manjot great decision,” says Sidharth, solutely! The boy from Bhagat jot Singh and Priya Anand, starts out slow but Singh), who father runs a sweets laughing, as he talks about life, ca- Singh College and Defence Colo- soon picks the tempo. The lyrics by Aditya Shar- shop. Choocha often dreams and reer, link-up and break-up rumours ny is still there. I feel now is the ma are mostly in Punjabi with a sprinkling of Hin- one such a dream, which Hunny and more. This is your fifth year time for him to get into movies, di. The setting is the engagement of one of the later interprets as a lottery num- in the industry (he debuted with especially since people have not friends in the film. The overall feel of the song is ber that they buy, gets them en- Student of The Year; 2012). How seen that side of mine. It is a very young, romantic and happy. The original Fukrey, tangled with local gangster, Bholi has the journey been till now? As interesting phase and I can use that a film produced under the Excel Entertainment ban- Punjaban. Bereft of any big star, we can see, there have been lots of facets and aspects of my life into ner of Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, told Fukrey, was a breakout box office ups-and-downs. Though I don’t performances. But I don’t feel that the story of a band of boys who want to make success when it released in 2013. feel I have been here for that long, I have arrived at all. easy money. The group includes two school back- (Hindustan Times) I think a lot of maturity has come (Hindustan Times) TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES England's Jake Ball fit for first Ashes Test at the Gabba

Kevin De Bruyne claims Pep Guardiola has made the Manchester City players believe they are invincible and can beat anyone. The Belgian midfielder scored his fourth goal of the season as City beat Leicester 2-0 at the King Power Stadium on Saturday to make it 10 consecutive Premier League wins for Guardiola's team. The victory leaves Man City eight points clear at the top of the Premier League table ahead of rivals Manchester United in second place. Pep Guardi- ola was pleased following Manchester City’s 2-0 win at Leicester but insists they could have scored more. De Bruyne said: "[Guardiola has given us] the confidence that we can beat everybody. "Last year, there were games where we could have been better but we weren't clinical enough. "This year, even today, we could be more clinical. But we were there in the box, we are scoring more goals and I think that's the main difference from last year. "It's not about me. It's about how the team plays and the way that the team is playing makes it easier for me. "Obviously I think it is a type of football that is good for me as a player individually. "But I think also the way that the team is playing, it just makes it easier for everybody." (Sky Sport)

Jake Ball has declared himself ful- first day then I am ready to go. "I ly fit ahead of the start of England’s had my eyes closed for a split sec- Grigor Dimitrov Ashes campaign. The Nottingham- ond [when I went over my ankle]. shire pace bowler sprained an an- It did hurt at the time but I man- believes ATP kle during a warm-up game in Ade- aged to get a bit of movement while laide last week, leading to fears he I was out there and walking off I may slip out of contention for the didn't seem too bad. "As soon as I Finals title can first Ashes Test, which starts on got the results back from the scan Thursday. However, Ball says he it was all positive and really good. act as "great is raring to go if selected at the The medical staff have been amaz- Gabba in Brisbane after stepping ing and have sorted me out and I platform" up his recovery during England's am obviously back fully fit now. draw against a Cricket Australia XI "I am really confident in what in Townsville. He told Sky Sports I am doing at the minute and I think Grigor Dimitrov believes winning News: "I'm fully fit now. The last that is what made the injury all the the ATP Finals title will act as a few days at Townsville I was off more frustrating in the fact that I “great platform” as he capped his my full run and I had two sessions was bowling really well. To pick season in thrilling fashion on Sun- in the field, so I am in a really good up that niggle was a little setback day. The 26-year-old, who became position at the minute. Hear from but since I have been back I feel it the first player since Alex Corretja both England and Australia ahead has been coming out nicely." En- to win the season-ending tourna- of the this week's first Ashes Test gland are still without Ben Stokes, ment on their debut, finished the in Brisbane. Hear from both En- who was unable to make the plane season as the world No 3 follow- Carl Frampton made a winning re- into a fight. "I wanted it to be a gland and Australia ahead of this to Australia for the Ashes tour as ing a three-set win over fellow deb- hard fight, that has got the rust off, week's first Ashes Test in Brisbane he awaits the conclusion of a po- utant David Goffin. Dimitrov, turn to the ring with a far from convincing non-title fight victory the cobwebs have gone and I want "I feel like I have had enough lice investigation. whose title at The O2 joins previ- one of the big boys. I will let the bowling so hopefully come the (BBC Sport) ous victories in Cincinnati, Sofia over Mexican Horacio Garcia at the SSE Arena in Belfast. The former team decide who I fight next." and Brisbane, is still without a Fighting at an agreed weight of 9st Grand Slam title and he acknowl- WBA world featherweight title- holder was defeated by Leo Santa 1lb over 10 rounds, Frampton edged 'there is a lot to be done' as started well and dominated the ear- he aims to make further strides in Cruz in January and has since split Ar iya J u t a n u ga r n from trainer Shane McGuigan to ly rounds before his opponent the game. Grigor Dimitrov cele- came back into the contest. After brates with the ATP Finals trophy work with Jamie Moore. The 30- year-old Belfast fighter was look- getting caught on the ropes a cou- Grigor Dimitrov celebrates with ple of times, Frampton appeared win s C M E G r ou p the ATP Finals trophy ing for a way back into world title contention and despite looking ring to slip in the seventh round but "I think it is a great platform for the referee claimed a punch had me to start the off-season," Dim- rusty took a unanimous points decision against Garcia and will been landed and gave him a stand- T ou r C h a m p ion sh ip itrov told Sky Sports. "That is the ing count. Garcia was setting the No 1 goal for me. "Obviously I am now hope for a world title fight at Windsor Park in 2018. He said: "I pace towards the end of the fight going to take a little time off and I and as they began to trade blows a still believe there is a lot to be done, thought it was a good fight and a s L exi T h om p son everyone would have enjoyed that tiring Frampton still did enough to a lot to work on and I believe I can win the fight on all three of the get better." The Bulgarian was more than me. I was boxing lovely at the start then I let him drag me judges' cards. forced to wait until his fifth match (Sky Sport) slip s u p point before securing victory over his Belgian counterpart after a nerve-shredding 10-minute game and Dimitrov admitted he was get- S ky S ch ola r a n d ting nervy in the closing stages. He added: "I was hoping he was going to miss that last volley. I was swim m er F r eya getting a little tight. An d er son on h a r d wor k a n d r eh a b a t L a n za r ot e t r a in in g ca m p

A fear of the sea and a niggling back hard to deal with but I have such a injury was never going to dampen great support team of my family, the spirits of Freya Anderson in friends and coach who help me get Lanzarote. The 16-year-old Sky through it! Sports Scholar has had a stunning Times can be tough, but I've still 2017. Crowned 100m Freestyle had the best year of my career so Thailand's Ariya Jutanugarn triumphed in the CME Group Tour Cham- British champion. Senior debut at far this year, despite this injury. I pionship thanks to two late birdies and a missed short putt by Lexi the World Championships. Named got injured during a land training Thompson. American Thompson looked set for glory at the Tiburon in England's squad for next year's session in February. I thought I had Golf Club in Naples, Florida with a one-shot lead going onto the 18th Commonwealths in Australia. A just pulled my back but the pain green. But a missed a two-foot par putt dropped her into a three-way week of hardcore pool sessions, never left and got worse. An MRI tie and set up Jutanugarn the chance to grab the headlines. The 21-year- with some occasional chill thrown scan revealed I had irritated my old world No 9, who started the day among the quartet holding the in, was perfect preparation and joints on my spine which was frus- lead, stayed cool to sink an 18-foot birdie putt for a five-under 67 and team bonding for the European trating. I have physiotherapy and a one-shot victory. Thompson and compatriot Jessica Korda shared Short Course Championships in a rehabilitation programme includ- second, just one stroke adrift, with Sweden's Pernilla Lindberg and South Korean Ji Eun-Hee tied for fourth a shot further back. Ariya Denmark just before Christmas. ing pilates which will hopefully get Jutanugarn enjoyed a dramatic final round in Florida on Sunday Th- It was 3.30 in the morning. I'm used me back to normal soon. It's an- ompson needed to win to secure the LPGA Tour player of the year to waking up early, but this was a noying because racing has started award. Her consolation was winning the $1m bonus for the CME Race challenge! My swimming team the but I understand I need to rest my to the Globe and the Vare Trophy for the lowest scoring average. "It is Ellesmere Titans were off to Lan- back. I raced recently but only did very special," Thompson said. "It has just been an incredible week." zarote for a warm-weather train- the heats. I have the European The points-based player of the year was a tie between So Yeon Ryu ing camp. We were all very tired Short Course Championships in and Sung Hyun Park. Britain's defending champion Charley Hull fin- but very excited. I was slightly ap- December in Copenhagen coming ished in a share of 11th. The 21-year-old from Kettering, last year's Rich Ricci is already bullish about Christmas and go for that it would "We haven't talked about it yet prehensive about going on a camp up which is nerve-racking because champion when winning her maiden LPGA title, was five shots behind Faugheen attempting to regain his be fine. "I've not spoken to Willie and where the horses are going to because of my back injury I've had of the condition of my back. after a two-under 70. Cheltenham crown after the 2015 about it, but I'd say Christmas run. (BBC Sport) for about nine months. It can be (BBC Sport) (Sky Sport) Champion Hurdle hero overcame would be good and having been a lengthy absence in style at off for so long you'd like him to Punchestown. The nine-year-old have a couple of more runs before showed little sign of ring-rustiness Cheltenham. That's probably the UKADconfirmsnochargesafter investigationinto on his first appearance since win- route we'd take. "If you saw ning the Irish Champion Hurdle in Faugheen at his best, which he was January, 2016 as he demolished the a couple of years ago, he was one opposition in the Unibet Morgi- of the best champion hurdlers of mysterypackagesent toTeamSkyat 2011Dauphine ana Hurdle in a manner that sug- all time, in my opinion. If he can gested he retains all his old ability. get close to that, then I think he'd UK Anti-Doping has closed its investigation into "As with all UKAD investi- The Champion Hurdle in go very close." a package delivered to Team Sky during the 2011 gations, our work has been thor- March is the ultimate objective for Ricci is also excited at the pros- Criterium du Dauphine and will not be bringing ough and extensive, and I can reas- the Willie Mullins-trained gelding, pect of Douvan's impending re- any charges. The investigation, which has taken sure the public that we treat every and Ricci would like to see turn, after being off the track since more than a year, was unable to confirm or refute credible allegation with the utmost Faugheen have two more runs be- his shock defeat in the Queen the account that a "jiffy bag" delivered to the team seriousness. "Our investigation fore then, possibly one over Mother Champion Chase at Chel- for Sir Bradley Wiggins contained Fluimucil, which was hampered by a lack of accu- Christmas and then in the Irish tenham in March. The Tingle is not a prohibited substance. UKAD chief exec- rate medical records being available Champion. Creek Chase at Sandown next utive Nicole Sapstead said the investigation had at British Cycling. This is a seri- "I was delighted with that. month is one of the options for been hampered by a lack of accurate medical ous concern. As part of their con- When they come back you are not the two-mile specialist. records available at British Cycling and a state- ditions to receive public funding quite sure. He looked muscular, but "Douvan is in good nick. He ment from the body said it could be re-opened if from UK Sport and other Home a bit big in the ring. It was great to seems to have his swagger back, new and material information should come to light. Country Sports Councils, all have him back and it was a job re- what he had a couple of years ago, They also confirmed information had been shared sports governing bodies must ally well done," he told At The and I'm looking forward to him with the General Medical Council, which also has comply with the UK National Races. "I don't know where next coming out.," said Ricci. regulatory powers and could access private med- Anti-Doping Policy. In this case with Faugheen. We want to get "I think Un De Sceaux is for ical records UKAD were unable to. Sapstead said: the matter was further complicat- back to Cheltenham. that race, we've got Min in the mix "I can confirm that UKAD does not intend to ed by the crossover between per- The Irish Champion is a won- and there's Yorkhill. I'm not sure issue any anti-doping charges as a result of the sonnel at British Cycling and Team derful race. If we had to miss where he's going. investigation into the package. Sky. TUESDAY . NOVEMBER 21. 2017-Aqrab 30, 1396 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 115 Price: Afs.20

he High Peace Council chairman who is visiting Indonesia will hold discussions with MAIMANA : Taliban blocked the officials on a range of issues Maimana-Jawzjan highway for around the quest for peace. traffic on Monday, leaving many people on both sides of the road, passengers said. The driver of a passenger vehicle, wishing to go unnamed, told Pajhwok Afghan News dozens of automobiles were stranded in the Qushlaq area of Khwaja Sabzposh district. “Women and children pleaded with the Taliban to let them pass the area, but the insurgents didn’t listen to their requests,” the driver said. Mohammad Sharif, a resident f Maimana, said he was travelling The Chairman Afghanistan’s High JALALABAD : At least 18 Daesh along with his family to Mazar-I- Peace Council (HPC) Mohammad or Islamic State militants have been Sharif, but they were stranded in Karim Khalili is in Indonesia killed in an airstrike and a clash in Khwaja Sabzposh due to the road where he will hold discussions eastern Nangarhar province, blockade. However, Haji Amin, a local with high-ranking Indonesian officials said on Monday. Afghanistan’s power supply company DABS said officials including President Joko Another 18 gunmen loyal to Taliban commander, told Pajhwok the highway was blocked by local construction of a new power line between Uzbekistan and Widodo. The Indonesian the group were wounded in the Afghanistan’s Baghlan province will benefit factory owners. embassy in Kabul has said that separate air and ground offensives elders and religious to protest the the trip, from November 19 to 25, during the past 24-hours, Attaullah detention of three locals by by the HPC delegates comes as Khogyani, the governor’s intelligence agents. Officials from Da Afghanistan Amanullah Ghalib said. part of the follow up meeting spokesman, told Pajhwok Afghan He said the Taliban supported Breshna Sherkat (DABS) said Meanwhile President Ashraf between President Ashraf Ghani News. He said 14 Daesh rebels the protestors. “The road would Sunday that construction on a new Ghani said on Sunday that he will and his Indonesian counterpart were killed, including a key figure remain blocked until the demand power project between sign 14 agreements with Widodo. “The purpose of the visit Saqib, and their weapons and of these protestors is answered Uzbekistan’s Surkhan and Pul-e- Uzbekistan during an upcoming is to have exchange of views and ammunition destroyed in the positively,” the rebel commander Khumri in Baghlan in Afghanistan visit to that country. The Surkhan- share lessons learnt, and reinforce airstrike in Abdulkhelo area of said. Khwaja Sabzposh district will get underway soon. Pul-e-Khumri power transmission both countries’ experience dealing Achin district. chief, Abdullah Masumi, The Surkhan-Pul-e-Khumri project will be one of the with peace process, reconciliation In Chaparhar district, four IS confirmed the road blockade, power transmission project agreements signed. The new efforts and reintegration militants were killed and two accusing Amin of seizing three between Afghanistan and power project will transmit mechanism. Indonesia could share others were wounded in a clash security personnel, a including Uzbekistan was agreed upon by electricity that will be used mostly its experiences dealing with armed with security forces in Garazo area public order policeman, an Afghan representatives of the two for industries. “In less than 15 conflict, such as in Aceh Province, on Sunday, said Hazrat Hussain spokesman. forces suffered no casualties in the National Army (ANA) soldier and countries on the sidelines of the days I will go to Uzbekistan and and communal conflict such as in Mashriqiwal, the provincial police The two officials said security two incidents. (Pajhwok) a traffic officer from a passenger Regional Economic Cooperation 14 agreements are ready to be Ambon, Moluccas Province,” read bus one and a half month ago. Conference on Afghanistan signed with Uzbekistan which a press release issued by the He said the Taliban had killed (RECCA) in Turkmenistan last includes this project agreement Indonesian embassy in Kabul. the ANA officer but the policeman week. According to DABS, this too,” said Ghani. The private The press release states that and traffic officer were still in their power line will transmit up to 1,000 sector meanwhile said the Indonesia as the world’s most captivity. Afghan forces then megawatts of electricity from implementation of major power populous Muslim nation has a detained three suspects -- relatives Uzbekistan to Afghanistan and projects will resolve electricity deep-rooted historical friendship of Haji Amin. both countries will start the shortages that factories face. with Afghanistan and that Now the militants have construction phase soon. “This DABS officials also said Indonesia remains committed to blocked the highway to force the project will start following the visit Turkmenistan has agreed to supporting Afghanistan in its government to release the three of an Afghanistan delegation to provide Afghanistan with power peace and reconciliation process. detainees, according to the district Uzbekistan. Then we will start at a reasonable rate. On November 6, Indonesia's chief. (Pajhwok) practical work,” DABS head (ToloNews) Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Amass wedding held in Bamiyan on Monday was aimed at L.P Marsudi met with Ghani in ending the culture of extravagant wedding ceremonies. Kabul where the two sides pledged to further enhance affairs Sayed Kamal Sadat said at bilateral ties in all spheres between the ceremony that members of the 2 women, as many children the two countries. At the meeting, public must start cutting back on Ghani also stressed the need for such extravagant ceremonies. closer ties between religious “Afghanistan is one of the scholars from the two Muslim mysteriously killed in Farah countries that still practices nations. In addition, Ghani inappropriate traditions. expressed his gratitude over what (Expensive) weddings are against FARAH CITY : Two women and Shorab area of Mahajirabad village underway. According to Bahir, the he described as Indonesia's Islamic law and together we should as many children have been found on Sunday. He said the women had victims were inhabitants of the support and cooperation with all remove these inappropriate dead under mysterious been shot in heads while the Kansang village of Bala Baluk Afghanistan and said Indonesia customs,” said Sadat. circumstances in western Farah children were beheaded. The district. A relative of one victim, has great expertise in a number of Guests at the mass wedding province, an official said on bodies were handed over to the requesting not to be named, said fields involving economic called on the nation to support Monday. Police spokesman Iqbal victims’ relatives. No one had been the dead belonged to the same development and women A mass wedding ceremony was laborers and others. poor people in order to help them Bahir told Pajhwok Afghan News arrested in connection with the family and had gone to visit a shrine empowerment, adding that his held on Monday in central “In Afghanistan expensive marry. According to them, the best security forces found the bodies killings, the police officials said, in Farah City. He said they had no government hopes that Indonesia Bamiyan province which saw 37 wedding ceremonies take place due way is to hold mass weddings so during a patrol in the Dasht-i- adding an investigation was personal enmity. (Pajhwok) shares these skills with couples getting married. to inappropriate traditions. So people are spared of having to Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the The wedding was organized often youths are forced to go spend a lot of money. Lavish HPC’s visit comes at a time that by the Ministry of Culture and abroad and work illegally to make wedding ceremonies have become the peace and reconciliation Information in Bamiyan and was money for their weddings. This commonplace in many Afghan process between Afghanistan’s aimed at cutting back on lavish results in them being away from cities in recent years – a trend that government and the Taliban has affairs. their families,” Mohammad Tahir often sees couples taking out huge stalled – with no sign of a The couples were from all Zuhair said. loans so as to pay for these affairs breakthrough in sight. walks of life and included school Information and culture that can cost tens of thousands of (ToloNews) pupils; some university students, ministry’s deputy head for youth dollars. (ToloNews)

Children from around the country will on Monday get the opportunity to participate in a range of activities within government and the private sector.

Monday is World Children’s Day their potential. In Afghanistan, they are a very big part of this development partners and and in an effort to give children the several media organizations are country’s young society. members of the UN Country Team opportunity to be heard, child-led giving children the opportunity to However, girls and boys in in Afghanistan. At a UNICEF- activities will take place around the take over segments of their Afghanistan are largely invisible as supported ‘Activate Talk’ in country, UNICEF said in a programming. Participating TV citizens and we need to give them Kabul adolescents from different statement. and radio stations include RTA, the chance to speak up. Today is a backgrounds will take over a panel World Children’s Day, which TV24, Shamshad, TOLO, BBC day for children to ‘take over’ and discussion to showcase their marks the anniversary of the and Radio Free Europe as well as speak with their own voices. And innovations and achievements in adoption of the Convention on the Pajhwok news agency and the we must listen,” read UNICEF’s music, art, business and academics. Rights of the Child, is celebrated Killid media group. “It’s a fun day statement. Child-led activities will Young people from the project globally and sees children ‘take with a serious point,” said take place in various areas of the ‘Improving Adolescents’ Lives in over’ key roles in media, politics, UNICEF Representative in country to discuss issues affecting Afghanistan’ (IALA) will also business, sport and entertainment Afghanistan, Adele Khodr. “Here Afghan children so that they can discuss their challenges and how to give them a platform to help in Afghanistan it is very important share their views and ideas with they are overcoming them. them fight for their rights and fulfil to give children a voice because government, community leaders, (ToloNews)