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AT News KABUL: Abdul- pull all its 2,500 soldiers out of lah Abdullah, the warn-hit country by Sep- chairman of the high council for tember 11. Other NATO-mem- national reconciliation warns ber states have also said they that Taliban militants would be would leave Afghanistan at the more heartened to continue war same time of the US withdraw- once the US-led foreign troops al. Abdullah said Monday that leave Afghanistan. The United Taliban are mulling war rather States has already begun troop than seeking peaceful ways. withdrawal and is expected to “One side ...

AT News Sarwar Danesh said, adding that Danesh said the government will defend the draft all parties involved in the Afghan for “Supporting of Press Freedom” in peace pro- ABUL: The Afghan peace process should pay atten- cess that is needed to be a key part of peace deal. government will pre tion on this aspect. Danesh cited He pledged the government is committed to free- serve the achievements the remarks on Monday in a cere- dom of expression and journalists. Celebrating the gained in freedom of mony held in Kabul to celebrate World Press Freedom Day, the Kabul based diplo- expression, Second Vice President the World Press Freedom Day. matic missions that include...

S President Joe Biden in a that have metastasized around the world. “As we statement on 10th anniver bring to an end America’s longest war and draw Usary of raid that killed Osa- down the last of our troops from Afghanistan, al AT News ma bin Laden said that the United Qaeda is greatly degraded there," Biden said. “But States will remain vigilant about the United States will remain vigilant about the the threat from terrorist groups threat from terrorist groups that... KABUL: President Ashraf Ghani has issued an order that sentences those people who smuggle medical equipment to abroad to 20 years in prison. There are reports of stealing and smuggling of medical equipment including ventilators to the neigh- AT News boring Pakistan. The equipment were donated by friendly coun- KABUL: The United States will continue lending KABUL: At least seven soldiers tries last year when the country economic, humanitarian, and developmental sup- were killed when Taliban militants was severely threatened by the port to Afghanistan, says the secretary of state. attacked an army base in the west- Corona virus. Wahid Majrooh, Antony Blinken, speaking to CBS News, said the ern province of Farah, provincial acting public health minister, said US would still have a presence in Afghanistan after governor confirmed Monday. Monday that under presidential the exit of foreign forces from that country. “We’ve Governor Taj Mohammad Jahed, order, those who try to smuggle been engaged in Afghanistan for 20 years, and we said that the attackers dag a tunnel an oxygen balloon or other med- sometimes forget why we went there in the first to reach the army base and they ical essentials will be sent to pris- place, and that was to deal with the people who managed to blast it. He said that on for 20 years. ... attacked us on 9/11. “And we... seven soldiers ... TUESDAY. MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Khalilzad m eets Ghan i, Abdullah Taliban , US in No com prom ise on free o n peace pro cess Talks Ove r Full press: Danesh ...P12 withdrawal from Af- With draw al by ghanistan. The president said ...P1 Australia, Canada, Den- ing of journalists, he said that sev- peace was vital for the people of ...P12 Danesh at an event mark, EU Delegation, Finland, eral murderers were arrested in Afghanistan and for government on Monday called the Taliban a France, Germany, Italy, Nether- connection to the cases and their but this process should be based rebellious and fugitive group that lands, Norway, Sweden, United dossiers dispatched to related at- on new facts and realities. is thirsty for power. “The Tali- Nations Assistance Mission in torney offices for proceeding. HNRC Spokesperson Fari- ban, because it has turned away Afghanistan, U.S. and United The joint statement of the donKhwazon said that US Chief from peace, is considered a fugi- Kingdom in a Joint statement Kabul base diplomatic organiza- Negotiator met Dr. Abdullah Ab- tive group because, based on a reiterated their support to the tions said that the vibrant media dullah and discussed with him lat- verse of the Holy Quran, if a Afghan Journalists and Media. sector of Afghanistan “is one of est development in peace process. group violates the call for peace, Afghanistan has recently the country’s greatest success sto- Khalilzad last week traveled it is considered violent and fugi- seen an upswing in targeted-kill- ries of the last two decades.” to Qatar and held meetings with tive,” Danesh said. Khalilzad ings of some high profile figures A free and independent me- representatives of China, Russia also met with peace negotiators including journalists and activ- dia is an essential part of an inclu- and Pakistan. He participated in a in Doha during his trip to Qatar ists. According to a human sive and representative Afghani- multilateral meeting on Afghani- last week. watchdog, Amnesty Internation- stan, the statement added. “Free, stan. He also held separate meet- “Efforts to hold the upcom- al, 11 journalists were killed in safe and independent journalists ings with the Taliban and governing Turkey conference were wel- targeted-attacks in 2020 in Af- and media organizations are nec- ment negotiating delegations mem- comed. And the US envoy as- ghanistan. essary to help tackle corruption bers. On his way to Afghanistan, sured his country’s continued But Second Vice President and allow people to participate Khalilzad met Junbish Party head support to the government and assured the journalists that peace meaningfully in democracy with Marshal Dostum in Tashkent. He the people of Afghanistan,” said and Republic values are the pri- access to accurate and trustwor- also met Uzbekistan foreign min- Ghulam Farooq Majroh, a re- ority of the government that thy information.” The statement ister and discussed with him mat- public negotiator. The Istanbul would also place the freedom of also called for an end to the con- ters related to Afghan peace pro- conference was delayed two expression on top of agenda. A tinued violence against the jour- cess. times because the Taliban backed long uneven way has been crossed nalists and media professionals. out. It is expected to be held late and many lives lost in the way “Journalists must be protected, US base this month. of gaining press freedom in past and those who commit acts of vi- many years, he noted. olence and murder against work- in Helmand... He insisted that Afghan gov- ers in the sector must be brought COVID-19: ernment is committed to protect to justice,” the statement added. ...P12 respective countries. In 275 infections, six freedom of expression and jour- “We recognize that female jour- Kabul, the Ministry of Defence deaths nalists. nalists and media professionals are said, as part of the drawdown, the Pointing to violence cases particularly at risk.” US military transferred Camp in one day against journalists and media The Amnesty International Antonik to Afghan forces. The ...P12 recovered from the virus. staffers, Second Vice President called on the Afghan government base will house Afghanistan’s spe- The total number of recov- said that after the “Government to protect the Afghan journalists cial forces. American soldiers low- eries exceeded to 53,561 while and Media Joint Committee,” all amid wrenching violence ragging ered the US flag at the base and a more than 2,648 lost their lives 575 violence cases, which took across the country. group of Afghan troops raised the since the spread of the pandem- place against journalist and me- The human right watchdog national flag. The 205th Maiwand ic started over a year ago. dia workers in the past 20 years, said that the attacks against jour- Corps confirmed the US military This comes as Pakistan is in- were preceded. nalists and media workers re- had formally handed over Camp tending to close crossing points Hinting to recent target kill- mained unsolved. Antonik to it. The handover cere- with Afghanistan as the numbers mony was held at the Maiwand of cases have been intensifying Corps headquarters. “The leader- across the region. Biden Says US Will Disrupt ship of the 205th Maiwand Corps appreciated the assistance and Any Threat from Afghanistan support of forces and said good- 6 2 Taliban rebels KABUL: Farida Kochi, who has example of an Afghan’s life. women from working, but they bye to them,” a statement from ...P1 have metastasized around any type of relations with al-Qae- lost three sons including a four- The war had left so many Af- do not allow those without head- the military corps said. “The Af- killed in fresh ops the world. We will continue to da. The US presence in Afghani- month-old to war, wants support ghans like her in a state of mourn- scarves or those who refuse to ghan military will intensify anti- monitor and disrupt any threat stan over the last 20 years was to go to Qatar and plead with the ing, the ex-lawmaker said, lament- accept Islam.” terrorism operations and will tar- ...P12 seized in the operations. to us that emerges from Afghan- due to the existence of al-Qaeda. warring parties for peace. ing that countless mothers had lost Kochi insisted the Taliban get strongholds of terrorists in any The armed conflicts have istan.” Biden last month said the US has But Kochi, a former senator, their sons to the “foreign-imposed had not come to the negotiating area of the southwest of the coun- been rising across the country He said that ten years ago, achieved its objectives in the Af- is still making strenuous efforts war” that was still taking a toll on table, but they wanted peace. A try,” the statement added. amid the international forces he joined President Obama and ghanistan war. to stretch her scarf (shawl) be- the Afghans. handful of people in the govern- withdrawal from Afghanistan members of US national securi- “Right now, al-Qaeda and fore the negotiators for making While wiping away her tears, ment opposed peace. She alleged, Flash floods that also brought deep concerns ty team to "watch as our mili- Talib are not two different ideo- peace and renouncing the war. she told Pajhwok Afghan News: asking the Ghani administration among the citizens. tary delivered long-awaited jus- logic topics; they are beyond that A member of the Meshrano “We have seen it, May Allah nev- not to miss this opportunity. affect business tice to Osama bin Laden.” “It is as they have intermarried within Jirga (upper house of parliament) er show you this. May Allah bring The former parliamentarian in Sam an gan , Blinken vows a moment I will never forget— their families,” NDS chief Ahmad from 2010-2018, Farida Kochi is peace so that the new generation refused to name those who op- co n tin ued US aid the intelligence professionals Zia Saraj said last week. The ques- a resident of Balkh province. She doesn’t experience this bloody posed a peaceful settlement, fear- Daikundi who had painstakingly tracked tion that arises is how can al-Qae- is currently living in Kabul. war.” Kochi’s efforts for peace: ing they would create problems to Afghan istan him down; the clarity and con- da pose a threat to Afghanistan The 50-year-old nomad is Afghan women have long for her. Stretching her scarf, Ko- viction of President Obama in and the world while its leader was acutely aware of the anguish of played a key role in ending hostil- chi asked President Ashraf making the call; the courage and killed ten years back? ...P12 Azimi said that more than ...P1 did. Just because our her compatriots as she has lived ities in their homeland, she ac- Ghani: “For Allah sake, make rec- skill of our team on the ground,” “Al-Qaeda was not owned 20 houses were completely de- troops are coming home doesn’t in different parts of the country. knowledged. Afghan women had onciliation with the Taliban. Go he said. by bin Laden,” said Atiqullah stroyed and 10 trucks damaged as mean we’re leaving. We’re not,” She has been in Afghanistan resolved hostilities through the old to the Taliban, and tell those giv- “It had been almost ten Amarkhil, a former military of- flood flowed across Samangan. Blinken continued. in the past four decades of con- tradition of mediation and stretching you wrong advice to get lost. years since our nation was at- ficer. “Al-Qaeda is still active in According to him, the flood hit The US embassy would re- flict. A patriot beyond doubt, she ing their scarves in front of rival His (president’s) advisers are giv- tacked on 9/11 and we went to Afghanistan and anyone who says around tens of acres of agricultur- main functional in Kabul, Blinken has never migrated abroad. parties. ing him flawed suggestions. He war in Afghanistan, pursuing al that we have eliminated al-Qae- al lands. The flood flashed from explained, promising continued Kochi said the conflict had “I’m a nomad; having traveled has ears, but not eyes.” Qaeda and its leaders. We fol- da--they are lying.” Koh-e-Shahkul located in Dar-e- American economic, humanitar- affected all Afghans, many of to different provinces. Whenever Kochi regretted the post- lowed bin Laden to the gates of The Afghan government sees Suf district. ian and developmental support whom have lost their loved ones. there was a dispute between peo- ponement of the Istanbul sum- hell—and we got him. We kept the Taliban’s ties with al-Qaeda The flood also caused finan- for Afghanistan. If asked, every mother would ple and villages, men would ap- mit on advancing peace in Af- cial damages in some parts of Ash- the promise to all those who lost as a key challenge in the way of share harrowing tales and yearn- proach them 10 to 20 times. ghanistan, saying people were tarlay district of Daikundi. Ac- loved ones on 9/11: that we would the peace process. “Even though ing for peace, she adds. “If the dispute would not go optimistic about the Turkey talks cording to some reports, one per- Medical never forget those we had lost, the Taliban has agreed with the Kochi’s excruciating story: away, then women would gather leading to peace in the country. son was killed in the flood. and that the United States will US to cut ties with al-Qaeda and Kochi was silent for a mo- and stretch their scarves before the Worried over the postpone- It is worth mentioning that equipm en t never waver in our commitment other terrorist groups, al-Qaeda ment and then she broke into parties and implore elderly men ment of the meeting, she noted parts of Afghanistan including to prevent another attack on our is still fighting among the Taliban,” tears, saying she, like other Af- for a negotiated solution.” the war had turned bloody and Ghor, Baghlan and Wardak prov- smugglers to get homeland and to keep the Amer- said Rahmatullah Andar, spokes- ghan mothers, had lost three sons She recently tried to bring to- the security situation was dete- inces have witnessed severe floods 20 years ican people safe,” he added. man for National Security Coun- to the conflict. She remarked: gether war-affected women from riorating with each passing day. in the ongoing year. Azimi said that Al-Qaeda not 'completely' cil. “The pain of every child child’s 34 provinces and to travel to Qa- “Everybody thinks I’m go- more than 200 homes were de- jail-term uprooted in Afghanistan Meanwhile, Abdullah Abdul- death shocked me beyond words. tar. Her idea was that the women, ing to be killed sooner or later. stroyed in the floods, but no cau- The Afghan government lah, the chairman of the High Coun- But the death of my four-month- whose sons were killed in the war, When my son goes to the bazaar, sality was reported. ...P1 Majrooh shared the or- says that the roots of the net- cil for National Reconciliation, old baby continues to haunt me would underline the need for peace I get him at least 20 phone calls der with the heads of public work are still alive in Afghani- said Saturday the often-fractured even today. “We lived in a desert and call for a ceasefire between the until he returns,” Kochi contin- health departments in the prov- stan and the group still poses a Afghan political leadership must in Balkh province; we had around warring sides. ued. 20 Afghan inces through a video conference, threat to the country and the unify in its peace talks with the 1,200 sheep, 600 goats, 10 cam- Unable to fund the propose With a Kalashnikov in her according to ministry of public world and is collaborating with Taliban or risk more bitter fight- els, cows and other animals. Men trip, she called on some individu- hand, Koch said her only surviv- journalists health. the Taliban. ing as the US and NATO with- loyal to Marshal Abdul Rashid als to help bring the women to- ing son guarded home until mid- Majrooh said that President But the Taliban has rejected draws, AP reported. Dostum came and took away all gether and make it possible for night and then she did so for the fall victims to Ghani had ordered the ministry our animals. them to travel to Qatar. However, rest of night. of interior to do their best to pre- “They asked me where our no one has provided her any as- “If the situation persist, there attacks in 6 vent smuggling of medical equip- Foreign withdrawal will men are. I replied they are not sistance so far. will be so many rebels like Ali- ment to abroad. available. Then two of Dostum’s Though her plan did not work, pur — the commander of illegal months In a statement, the ministry embolden Taliban: Abdullah men entered our tent, picked my yet she remains ready to do so. armed groups in Behsud (Maid- of public health said that Ghani’s ...P12 registered more than 4-month-old son from the cradle She is still working to end the an Wardak) and the government order was aiming to fight the ...P1 thinks about a power vacu- attack foreign troops after May and tore him into two pieces in bloody conflict through women will not be able to control them. 100 cases of aggression – includ- third wave of the Corona virus ing murder, death threats, physi- um and tries to use such situa- 1. A rocket crashed in the Kanda- front of my eyes,” she recalled. stretching their scarves before the Peace must be established to rein that is infecting more people tion for its benefits. Another side har airfield after Taliban’s threat. Without elaborating, she said parties so that all Afghans are unit- in such people,” she stressed. cal attacks and insults – against nowadays. women journalists in the past year. thinks of peaceful ways. This is The rocket was intercepted by the two of her other sons were sent ed like brothers. The restoration of peace and The Presidential order also a matter of concern because em- US troops stationed in the air- to the mountain for fear of being Regarding some women’s con- visiting the people of all prov- “The precarity of Afghan included priorities to vaccinate women journalists has increased boldens Taliban,” he said. field. The US Forces Commander taken away by the gunmen. But cerns that hard-won achievements inces, especially the Kochis, in elderly people and patients, to Abdullah accused Taliban of in Afghanistan Scott Miller said they were also killed in the moun- of the past two decades could be peace and happiness has been her not only as a result of the physi- employ those health workers cal dangers but also as a result of making excuses for the foreign that any attack on their soldiers tain. Kochi now has one son who kost in peace talks, she said: “I dream. who had been fired and to evalu- presence, saying that no foreign would be hardly responded. is also her bodyguard and driver. have experience; I was head of “If I die before the restora- the Covid-19 lockdown,” CPAWJ ate the Corona virus centers and director Farida Nekzad said. “At soldier would remain in Afghan- “We cannot reject the possi- She sees the absence of peace be- women’s affairs during the Tali- tion of peace, I will take this wish their medical equipment. istan within three months. bility of tough situation in Af- hind all miseries, saying her pain ban regime. to the grave,” the former senator least 20% of them have lost their Media outlets last year re- jobs or have been forced to take Taliban said Saturday the US ghanistan and the war will con- and unhappiness is just a small “The Taliban never barred commented. ported that 32 ventilators donat- violated the Qatar agreement tinue. But Taliban have not re- unpaid leave by their employers.” ed to public health ministry were The threats and violence they signed in 2020 under which jected yet negotiations. So let’s smuggled to Pakistan, while hos- the last American soldiers should be hopeful otherwise this will be against journalists have a direct pitals and other medical facili- impact on the media and make have left Afghanistan by May 1. the most unpleasant scenario,” ties severely needed the machin- The militant group threatened to Abdullah said. their work especially difficult. eries to treat Covid patients. They result in self-censorship The report was rejected by on many subjects, especially those the presidential office that said MPs Blame Taliban for Rise concerning the peace conditions no ventilator was smuggled to imposed by the foreign forces, the abroad. various government factions, and in Violence as US Exit Begins the Taliban. The Taliban have meanwhile Seven soldiers threatened journalists and media killed in Taliban ...P12 military camp to Afghan “As foreigners leave the coun- bosses in several provinces, while forces in Helmand province. try, they do pro-Taliban propa- local officials have demanded the attack in Farah “Ghazni will fall if it does not ganda every day,” said Iqbal Safi, termination of certain political and receive equipment as well as sup- an MP from Kapisa. entertainment programmes. ...P1 were killed in the blast and port from the people,” said Arif Other lawmakers meanwhile KABUL: A number of disabled “The peace and peaceful co- the attackers took another one Rahmani, an MP from Ghazni. insisted on the need for unity-- persons taking part in a protest existence sought by the Afghan hostage. “Heavy fighting is underway on among the people and between gathering in Kabul on Monday people will be impossible to guar- According to Jahed, five sol- the outskirts of Lashkargah,” politicians--and called for a con- demanded the appointment of five antee without the entire society’s diers managed to flee the base said Nasima Niazi, an MP from sensus among regional and inter- selected senators from disabled participation and will be impossi- and go a safe area. The blast was Helmand. “All borders of national countries to overcome the persons besides creation of jobs ble to realise without a free and followed by intensive clash be- Nuristan province are open to current situation. and higher education opportuni- independent press,” said Reza tween Taliban insurgents who armed opponents,” said Qamar “The defense and security ties for them. The gathering was Moini, the head of RSF’s Iran-Af- were claimed to have come to Banu, an MP from Nuristan. forces are the only true sons and organized by the Afghanistan ghanistan desk. Farah from Helmand province Meanwhile, the internation- defenders of this soil who are Disabled Management and Coor- “Without guarantees for press and the soldiers based in the al relations committee of the Par- bravely defending national sover- dination Organisation in front of freedom, they will be no just and army base. The clash continued liament in a statement called the eignty against any type of plot,” the parliament house. lasting peace,” RSF and the until Monday morning. US withdrawal irresponsible and Parliament Speaker Mir Rahman They said: “According to CPAWJ say. Action is needed to Five Taliban militants were said the only way to remove the Rahmani said. credible international organista- provide journalists with proper killed and 10 more injured dur- Taliban and the threat of other “Let’s unite and announce a tions 2.7 percent of our popula- protection, reinforce the laws and ing the clash, the provincial gov- terrorist groups is national uni- national jihad against the Talib,” tion is comprised of disabled per- ensure respect for the Islamic Re- ernor claimed. ty. said Abdul Sattar Husaini, an MP sons and 70 percent of them are public of Afghanistan’s constitu- Separately, Shah Mahmood “An irresponsible with- from Farah. deprived of social services. Ma- tion and decrees, which for 19 Naeemi, a member of provincial drawal, and the failure to create The MPs said the Afghan jority of disabled persons, or 77 years have guaranteed press free- council, said that only five out an alternative security mecha- National Defense and Security of 25 soldiers stationed in the nism, will do irreversible damage Forces need to be supported by percent, are children who have no disabled persons said: “If the gov- problems of this section of soci- dom, protection of journalists and, access to school education while in particular, the rights of women base had managed to escape. to international security,” said Afghans as they are paying the ernment does not pay greater at- ety, their problems would further Taliban did not immediately Qayum Sajjadi, a member of the ultimate sacrifice in the war ev- 90 percent disabled persons are tention to the social and economic increase”. journalists. unemployed.” The protesting comment on the report. commission. ery day. TUESDAY. MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

KABUL: Residents of Afghani- stan’s capital on Sunday expressed fears of more Taliban- fueled killing and violence in the coming months, a day after foreign forces officially began a full eneral Mark Milley, withdrawal from the country. chairman of the US Taliban attacks that focused Joint Chiefs of Staff, on Afghan forces and civilians in an interview with increased throughout the past Associated Press and CNN re- year but now many are worried porters on Sunday described the that the militant group will re- Afghan military and police as sume attacks on foreign forces as "reasonably well equipped, rea- they leave the country by Sept. sonably well trained, reasonably 11 — and that those attacks will well led." kill bystanders. He cited Afghan troops' The Taliban have in recent years of experience against a re- months issued vague warnings of Zalmai Faqirzada, left, makes bread with his colleagues at a silient insurgency, but he declined a reaction if the U.S. didn’t with- bakery close to Kabul's Green Zone on Sunday, May 2, to say they are fully ready to draw its forces by May 1, which 2021. Faqirzada said he feared violence would escalate in stand up to the Taliban without the former Trump administration the city as foreign forces leave. direct international backing dur- agreed to do last year in a pact ing a potential Taliban offensive, that also called for the Taliban to AP noted. He said that the Af- come to peaceful terms with the holy month of Ramadan. Zal- plication rejected, exchanges mon- ghan forces face an uncertain fu- government in Kabul. On Satur- mai Faqirzada, left, makes bread ey and sells phone cards on a busy European nations missions in Af- cess stories of the last two de- mission in Afghanistan in a report ture and, in a worst-case scenar- day, the group said in a statement with his colleagues at a bakery street outside the Green Zone. ghanistan in a statement on World cades.” A free and independent said that at least 11 human defend- io, some "bad possible out- it would “take every counterac- close to Kabul's Green Zone on “Everyone is concerned about the Press Freedom Day said that jour- media and a strong media sector ers and media workers were killed comes" against Taliban insurgents tion it deems appropriate against Sunday, May 2, 2021. Faqirza- withdrawal, and I know this is the nalists should be protected and is an essential part of an inclu- in targeted attacks in the country as the withdrawal of foreign the occupying forces.” da said he feared violence would most dangerous place to work, but the campaign of violence against sive and representative Afghani- from 12 September 2020 when the troops form Afghanistan acceler- Talha Hairan, 33, who owns escalate in the city as foreign what else can I do?” Khabir said. journalists and media profession- stan, the statement said. It add- peace negotiations started in Doha ates in the coming weeks. Asked a grocery store outside the forti- forces leave. Since the U.S.-Tal- “This is the only place I can als must end. ed that free, safe and indepen- through to 31 January 2021. whether he believes the Afghan fied Green Zone that houses iban deal was signed over a year work.”US and NATO forces be- “Those who commit acts of dent journalists and media organ- The report says human rights forces can hold up under increased NATO’s Afghanistan headquar- ago, targeted attacks have in- gin final withdrawal from Afghan- violence and murder against work- isations are necessary to help and media space have contracted strain, Milley was noncommit- ters and the U.S. Embassy, has creased in the capital, but the istan after nearly two decades of ers in the sector must be brought tackle corruption and allow peo- as a result, with many profession- tal. "Your question: The Afghan been injured twice in nearby at- large explosions that were once war Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. to justice,” the statement said. ple to participate meaningfully als exercising self-censorship in army, do they stay together and tacks, once by a suicide bomb and common became rare. Many fear Mark Milley, left, and Sen. Lind- The statement said that the EU in democracy with access to ac- their work, quitting their jobs, and remain a cohesive fighting force the other time by a rocket. that could change. It’s not just sey Graham, R-S.C., talk as they missions in Afghanistan recognize curate and trustworthy informa- leaving their homes and communi- or do they fall apart? I think there's Hairan, a father of two Afghans who are concerned. The arrive the chamber ahead of Pres- that female journalists and media tion. The media is integral to ties with hopes it will improve a range of scenarios here, a range whose family has owned the U.S. Embassy on Tuesday or- ident Joe Biden speaking to a joint professionals are particularly at building public support, creating their safety. Many, including high of outcomes, a range of possibil- store for 28 years, said he expects dered all employees who are session of Congress, Wednesday, risk and that the impunity for such a shared understanding and sup- profile personalities, have fled the ities," he said. "On the one hand more attacks. He takes security able to work remotely to leave April 28, 2021, in the House crimes remains a serious challenge port for peace and any future country, the report says, adding you get some really dramatic, bad measures but has become largely the country. Some nonprofit and Chamber at the U.S. Capitol in and creates a chilling environment, political settlement to the con- that the killings have had the broader possible outcomes. On the other used to the absence of security humanitarian groups have also Washington.
Melina Mara/ limiting the media sector’s ability flict, holding to account those impact across society of also di- hand, you get a military that since 2001. “The main thing is sent staff abroad. Nasir Ahmad, The Washington Post via AP to operate freely. “Afghanistan’s who would oppose peace for minishing expectations around ef- stays together and a government that you have to not think all the 34, the owner of a large grocery Gen. Milley: Afghan forces free and independent media sec- their own narrow political ends, forts towards peace. that stays together." "Which one time about the incidents and the store in central Kabul frequent- could face 'bad possible outcomes' tor has been hard won. Many the statement stated. “As Af- The report records a total of of these options obtains and be- attacks,’ Hairan said. “It’s a rou- ed by foreigners, said he’s seen Afghan commandos watch as Afghans have sacrificed their ghanistan’s international friends 65 human rights defenders and comes reality at the end of the tine now. Anything can happen a marked drop in customers in mortar shells pound Taliban posi- time, their energy, their money and partners, we reaffirm our media professionals killed in the day? We frankly don't know yet. anywhere.” At a nearby bakery, the past week. There has been a tions March 10, 2021, in Kapisa, and, for some, their lives to build commitment to stand by its jour- period from 1 January 2018 to 31 We have to wait and see how Zalmai Faqirzada, 26, said “ev- noticeable uptick in helicopter a province northeast of Kabul, this crucial public good. We pledge nalists and the media sector. We January 2021, 32 from the human things develop over the summer." eryone was worried” about the and cargo plane traffic over Afghanistan. Attacks on Afghan our continued support in defence continue to support Afghan jour- rights sector and 33 from the me- He said there is "at least still the situation. He shouted the words Kabul, which Abdul Khabir, 35, troops and police by militant of a free and independent Afghan nalists, to stand up for their rights, dia. Of these, 11 (five human rights possibility" of a negotiated po- as he and his colleagues busily described as a sign that his coun- groups and insider attacks were media. It must be defended," the and to oppose undue restrictions defenders and six media) were litical settlement between the gov- prepared bread that people try was being left behind. Kha- up sharply in the first three statement said. The EU missions on their work,” the statement killed in the four-month period ernment in Kabul and the Tali- would soon buy for their iftar bir, who said he worked for the months of 2021, the Special In- said that “vibrant media sector is concluded. from 1 October 2020 to 31 Janu- ban. dinners, which mark the end of U.S. military for 10 years and spector General for Afghanistan one of the country’s greatest suc- On February 15, the UN ary 2021 alone. the daily fast during the Muslim recently had his U.S. visa ap- Reconstruction said in a report.

Figures by the Ministry of Pub- ures show that 276 people were in the Hamal month (March 22 to “The roads are not good. “The Zabul-Kandahar high- way is considered as the deadli- Last year, according to the fig- lic Health show that 35 people killed in traffic accidents in the April 22). “Our drivers are care- They are narrow. They are not way is heavily damaged. Last est in terms of the accidents that ures, 3,220 traffic accidents hap- were killed and 1,398 more were country in the last solar year less. Roads are narrow. Cars and proper,” said Parwiz, a driver. evening, two vehicles faced a traf- happen. Officials said careless- pened last solar year (March 2020 wounded in traffic accidents in the (March 2020 to March 2021). carts are parked near the main road. Drivers said that carelessness fic accident,” said Mashooq, a ness by drivers--and their ex- to March 2021) in which 276 peo- country in Hamal solar year According to the ministry, No one is there to prevent them,” and damaged roads are main rea- driver. Of the country’s high- haustion--are main reasons that ple were killed and 1,795 more (March 22 to Feb. 22). The fig- 410 traffic accidents happened said Fahim, a driver. sons behind such incidents. ways, the Kabul-Kandahar High- create deadly traffic accidents. were wounded.

Senators on Sunday raised ques- north of Kabul along the key high- of a magnetic bomb is one of the possible reasons for the mas- tions over recent fires in Kabul, way that connects the capital sive fire. The chamber estimates the losses of the fire at around Farah and Herat province that city with northern provinces. $20 million. The Kabul fire was the fourth in less than three mainly targeted fuel imports, say- At least 60 vehicles, includ- months, following a major fire at Herat customs office and two ing there are "some hands behind ing fuel tanker trucks as well as more at a border town in Farah that shares a border with Iran. such incidents" that seek to harm trucks carrying food and other “Such incidents need a thorough probe to determine whether it the country’s economy. The goods, were completely damaged was an enemy action,” said Mohammad Khan, a senator. Ministry of Interior Affairs said in the fire that started around Senators said that one of the reasons can be a lack of atten- that nine people were killed and 9:00 pm on Saturday. The Cham- tion by government officials in the proper management of the 14 more were wounded in the ber of Trade and Investment said country’s border towns, ports and customs. “A fire happened major fire at a tanker truck sta- an investigation into the incident at Kabul gate. All these incidents must be probed thoroughly,” tion in the Qala-e-Murad Bek area has begun, but added that the use Senate Speaker Fazl Hadi Muslimyar said.

KABUL: Borders and Tribal Af- warned, they would not show fairs Minister Mohibullah Samim adherence to the system and law said some people had conveyed and this will cause fear and un- him their concerns about the es- rest among the masses. tablishment of private militias in “If this happens, this will some areas. During an exclusive pave the way for the Taliban’s interview with Pajhwok Afghan comeback. But no Afghan is in- News, Samim said: “We hear that terested in Taliban’s return to under different titles, an anti-gov- power. People are not support- ernment movement has started to ing the creation of illegal militias develop in some parts of the coun- that serve the interest of anti- ministry is working in three main try.” He did not disclose names state elements,” he continued. areas — political, social and cul- of the areas where anti-govern- Samim added security forc- tural. Tangible efforts are under- ment private militias were being es were fully capable of protect- way in these areas to ensure the formed, but reports in this regard ing Afghanistan’s territory and government’s message is conveyed started to come from Takhar, ensuring stability. to the masses. Samim said he visit- Daikundi and Baghlan provinces. “I want to call on people to ed many provinces and met differ- He said the most important stand by the security forces and ent tribes. The trips resulted in thing was that professional and support them. Send your chil- strengthening unity among the acceptable armed forces existed in dren to security institutions to tribes. This also helped win public the country and every military serve the country and ensure support for the government and development should take place greater security and stability in security forces. Dozens of meet- under their supervision. If illegal the country,” the minister re- ings in this regard are taking place armed groups were created, Samim marked. According to Samim, his on a daily basis. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Five people, including three children, injured in the accident, which happened when a speedboat collided with a cargo vessel.

scene. Construction work has slowed ferry transport on the river, prompting many to make the journey on the less-safe speedboats, which take only about 15 minutes to make the crossing in contrast to up to two hours on ferries. Khatun said the driver of the speedboat would be investigated as he appeared to have hit the transport vessel, which was moored at the time. “A probe has been ordered into Indian Prime Minister Narendra April, even as new daily case the accident,” he said. Maritime Modi’s party fell far short in its numbers were exceeding 200,000 accidents are common in Bang- attempt to win control in a fierce- and climbing. Other parties also ladesh, a delta nation criss- ly contested state election, one held large rallies, often with peo- crossed by hundreds of rivers. in which its aggressive efforts to ple crowding close together. In Authorities blame poor mainte- get out the vote have been criti- some cases, parties brought work- nance, lax safety standards at cized as worsening the country’s ers and supporters from other shipyards, and overcrowding for surge in Covid-19 infections. states to join the campaign in West many of the accidents. Official results coming in Bengal. New daily cases in West Vessels transporting sand sit early Monday showed Mr. Bengal topped 17,000 late last low in the water and can be hard Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party week. When the election dates to see in choppy conditions, was poised to win as many as 77 were first announced on Feb. 26, particularly when light is poor. seats in the West Bengal state the state reported 216 new daily In early April, more than 30 legislature—a sharp pickup from cases. Health experts say the ral- people died when a ferry packed its previous showings but well lies could have been one of the with 50 passengers hurrying short of a majority of the 292 factors leading to the surge. The home from the central city of seats being contested. The state’s BJP canceled the final rallies of At least 26 people have been “We have so far recovered 26 government restrictions during a rushed to the spot we found the Narayanganj ahead of the im- governing Trinamool Congress the campaign, national party killed after a speedboat packed bodies, including a woman. We nationwide coronavirus lock- speedboat torn into two pieces. pending coronavirus lockdown party was on track to win as spokesman Gopal Krishna Agar- with passengers collided with a have also rescued five injured peo- down, said Rahima Khatun, a top Hundreds of villagers immediate- collided with a larger cargo ves- many as 213 seats. The party is wal said previously, adding that vessel transporting sand in the ple, including three children,” po- government official in the area. ly started conducting rescue work sel. In June last year, a ferry sank led by Mamata Banerjee, a pow- no one had anticipated the magni- latest maritime disaster to hit lice official Amir Hossain said. Divers and local people retrieved before they were joined by police in the capital Dhaka after it was erful regional politician who has tude of the Covid-19 surge. He Bangladesh. Police said on Mon- Hossain said the bow of the 26 bodies from the water and and the fire brigade,” he said. hit from behind by another fer- at times been an outspoken crit- said Mr. Modi and other mem- day the speedboat carrying about passenger boat was destroyed were searching for those still miss- Bangladesh is building the ry, killing at least 32 people. In ic of Mr. Modi. Trinamool Con- bers of the BJP followed all the 36 passengers from the town of when the speedboat smashed into ing. Witness Abdur Rahman said country’s largest road and railway February 2015, at least 78 peo- gress supporters celebrated out- safety protocols in place at the Mawa slammed into the other the side of the transport vessel and there was a loud noise when the bridge near the spot where the ac- ple died when an overcrowded side party leader Mamata Ban- time. West Bengal is one of the vessel on the Padma River near quickly sank. The speedboat was boats collided and the vessels cident happened, and police said ship collided with a cargo ship. erjee's house in Kolkata on Sun- last remaining Hindu-majority the rural town of Shibchar. carrying passengers in violation of then overturned. “When we officers were immediately at the (Aljazeera) day. Mr. Modi and other politi- states that isn’t controlled by Mr. cians drew criticism for holding Modi’s BJP. The state’s chief campaign rallies attended by tens minister for the last 10 years, 66- of thousands as a Covid-19 wave year-old Ms. Banerjee of the Tri- accelerated. On Saturday, new namool Congress, has resisted Pakistan: Govt prepares Nepal PM Oli cases in India topped 400,000 a many policies of the central gov- day, a global record, amid a surge ernment led by Mr. Modi and his To Seek Confidence that has overwhelmed the health- party, including a law that eases electoral reforms agenda to care system in hard-hit cities like the path to citizenship for all im- New Delhi and spread to other migrants except Muslims from Vote for His states across the country. Hos- India’s Muslim-majority neigh- pitals have been turning patients bors. West Bengal holds special ensure 'transparency, fairness' away and running out of oxygen significance in Indian history, cul- Government and Covid-19 medications, leav- ture and politics. The movement ing sick people to care for their for the Indian subcontinent’s in- even sicker family members. dependence from British rule took on May 10 Much of the voting took root and gathered momentum in place before the rise in cases Bengal, an area that includes the Kathmandu: Nepal’s embattled turned into a full-blown crisis. state of West Bengal and what is Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli But the way the campaign was now Bangladesh. Some of mod- will seek a vote of confidence from conducted has been at the center ern India’s most influential na- parliament on May 10 in his bid of an angry debate over what fu- tional icons—from Nobel Prize- to stay in power. President Bidya eled the current coronavirus winning poet Rabindranath Devi Bhandari, on the recommen- wave. Mr. Modi has been criti- Tagore to Hindu spiritual leader dation of Prime Minister Oli, sum- cized for holding large rallies in Vivekananda—were from Bengal. moned a parliament session on May 10 to obtain a vote of confidence in his government, according to an official statement on Sun- SriLanka:Navytightens day. Oli, 69, requires at least 136 votes in the 275-member House of Representatives, the lower securityinSLwaterstoprevent house of parliament, to win the confidence motion as four mem- The federal government on Mon- ciations for their inputs," Awan the political parties to hold their bers are currently under suspen- government.This is also an op- illegal migration attempts day announced that it has pre- said. "Section-103 is being amend- annual conventions. An amend- sion. During a cabinet meeting on portunity for other parties to pared an electoral reforms agenda ed to allow the use of electronic ment in Section-15 will provide Sunday, Oli said that he would try form the government otherwise In the wake of surge of COVID- Naval Command has deployed to ensure transparency and fair- voting machines to check rigging an opportunity for the candidates to win the trust of parliament to the country will move in the di- 19 pandemic in the country, the additional ships and craft to pa- ness in the electoral process. The in the elections." He further added to challenge the polling staff," he stay in power, Nepalese media rection of the snap poll, he said. Sri Lanka Navy said today that trol the sea area extending from announcement was made during that Section-94 would be amend- added. Awan said it was also be- reported. Oli’s decision comes Prime Minister Oli’s deci- it has increased the security in Chilaw to Mannar, for these spe- a media briefing by Minister for ed to give the right of franchise to ing proposed that the electoral amid the current chaotic state of sion to seek a confidence vote Sri Lankan waters to prevent il- cial operations. Moreover, the Information and Broadcasting overseas Pakistanis. The adviser rolls be prepared on the basis of political affairs in the country that comes at a time when Nepal is legal migrants entering the shores Navy has increased foot patrols Fawad Chaudhary and Adviser to on parliamentary affairs stressed registration data available with emerged since the prime minister’s grappling with the effects of the of Sri Lanka via sea routes. to add weight on the security in Prime Minister on Parliamentary that there should also be democra- the National Database and Reg- controversial move to dissolve the second wave of the COVID-19 Accordingly, the Navy has the coastal areas and has estab- Affairs Babar Awan in Islamabad. cy within the political parties. istration Authority (NADRA). House of Representatives in De- pandemic. The country on Sun- deployed more naval units to lished Coastal Observation Points Sharing details, the PM's aide Therefore, it was decided to bring We also want the delimitation of cember last year. day reported a record 7,137 new patrol the northern and north- in selected locations as well. Sim- said the electoral reforms agenda an amendment in Section-202 un- constituencies on the basis of reg- The prime minister will seek cases of the coronavirus, the westers waters of the island ilarly, the Navy has urged the fish- envisaged a series of amendments der which the political parties, istered voters, he added. "Two a vote of confidence on May 10, highest daily surge. The national around the clock. Navy said that ing community in respective ar- to the Constitution and the Elec- having a representation of ten thou- constitutional amendments will Lila Nath Shrestha, Minister for tally has crossed the 329,000- steps have been taken to deploy eas to be vigilant regarding the tion Act 2017. "The reforms will sand members, would be able to also be brought with the aim to Law, Justice and Parliamentary mark. The death toll now stands more ships (OPV & FGBS) and possible arrival of illegal immi- be put forth before the stakehold- get themselves registered. "A new ensure an open ballot in the Sen- Affairs, told the Kathmandu Post. at 3,325. Nepal plunged into a Fast Attack Craft to raise sur- grants and inform relevant author- ers including the civil society, the section of 213A is also being in- ate and allow the overseas Paki- This is just a day-long session. political crisis on December 20 veillance in the International ities, if any suspicious activity is media and bar councils and asso- troduced making it compulsory on stanis to contest the elections." Shrestha said Oli wants to take last year after President Bhan- Maritime Boundary Line observed in this regard. They have a vote of confidence to take the dari dissolved the House and an- (IMBL) as well as Inshore Pa- also been informed not to make political process which has been nounced fresh elections on April trol Craft to patrol the coastal contacts with foreigners engaging stuck now, forward. The govern- 30 and May 10 at the recom- waters of the island. Incidental- in smuggling activities at sea. The India and EU to seal connectivity ment believes it will win the vote mendation of Prime Minister ly, the Eastern Naval Command Navy urged all fishing communi- of confidence. If not, the process Oli, amidst a tussle for power has attached some of its ships ties to refrain from having any will move forward for the forma- within the ruling Nepal Commu- and craft to the Northern Naval contact with foreign fishing ves- agreement, revive negotiations on trade tion of a coalition nist Party (NCP). Command, whereas the Western sels at sea and to provide. India and European Union are all set to seal a connectivity agreement at the May 8 virtual sum- Pakistan: Shehbaz rejects voting machine proposal Bangladesh mit at Lisbon apart from reviving the negotiations on the stalled govt extends trade and investment agreement. Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz of rigging have raised doubts over While Prime Minister Naren- (PML-N) on Sunday rejected the the credibility of election re- Covid restrictions dra Modi is keen to deepen co- government’s proposal to use elec- sults.” Regretting that no sub- operation at the summit with tronic voting machines (EVMs) in stantive reforms had been car- till May 16 Charles Michel, President of Eu- next elections, saying “such deci- ried out, PM Imran said his gov- ropean Council, and Ursula von sions cannot be made by one indi- ernment was determined and The ongoing restrictions on pub- der Leyen, President of the Euro- vidual” while the Pakistan Peoples would put in place reforms in lic movement and overall activi- pean Commission, the connectiv- Party (PPP) said it was open to the country’s electoral system ties aimed at containing the Cov- ity agreement will open a new discussion on electoral reforms. through technology to bring id situation will continue till May chapter in relations with both the On Saturday, Prime Minister transparency and credibility in 16. The decision was taken at the power blocks slated to create as- Imran Khan, while referring to the the process. Turning down the weekly cabinet meeting held vir- sets in third countries, particu- claims of rigging in NA-249, Kara- premier’s offer, Opposition tually with prime minister Sheikh larly in the Indo-Pacific. Prime in Damascus, Syria May 3, 2021. EU answer to China’s Belt Road chi by-polls and Senate elections, leader in the National Assembly Hasina in the chair from her offi- Minister Narendra Modi took to According to diplomatic Initiative as the connectivity part- reiterated that the EVMs were the and PML-N President Shehbaz cial residence Ganabhaban ahead the Twitter on Monday to ex- sources in EU, the connectivity nership will take to account en- only answer to reclaim the credi- Sharif in a statement on Sunday of Eid to be celebrated around the press his gratitude to the Euro- agreement will link India and EU vironment and sustainable devel- bility of elections in the country, said the utilization of EVMs in middle of May. ‘The ongoing re- pean Union for its support to in transport, energy, digital world opment and totally transparent and invited the opposition to sit polls had been rejected globally (PTI) for the “successful 2018 strictions will continue till May India on its fight against the coro- and people to people contacts by processes…..it is akin to India- with the government and “select and that the entire system of a electoral reforms”. Which is why 16 to contain the Covid-19 out- navirus disease. People sit at a creating assets and capacities in not Japan bidding in Sri Lankan port an EVM model we have available”. country could not be changed on nobody objected then, he said, break,’ cabinet secretary Khand- restaurants terrace on Monasti- only India and EU but also joint project,” said an EU diplomat. The premier, in a series of tweets, the whims of a single person. He adding that the “historic docu- ker Anwarul Islam said while ad- raki square in Athens on May 3, investment in third countries. The The President of the Euro- said despite low turnout in the by- observed that the process of elec- ment” signed by every party was dressing a press briefing after the 2021, as restaurants and cafes in connectivity agreement will not pean Union Commission, Ursu- polls, all parties were “crying foul toral reforms was essentially an still a part of the record. S h e h b meeting at the secretariat. He, Greece open after six months of only based on rules based order la von der Leyen later wrote on and claiming rigging” and added the inclusive one by taking every- a z s a i d t h e Parliament had however, said that ban on public lockdown due to the Covid-19 but also involve private sector to Twitter, "There is clear momen- same was witnessed after the Das- one on board and reminded how been “locked” for three years by transports would be relaxed only pandemic. Head of the higher con- create assets in the Indo-Pacific tum to strengthen our strategic ka by-polls and in the Senate elec- the PML-N had taken all the the PTI government. “When the for district towns from May 6 as stitutional court, Jihad Al Laham, region without burdening the third relations on trade, digital, climate tions. “In fact, apart from 1970 parties into confidence including opposition was talking about the current restrictions extended speaks during a news conference country with debt. “It is an India- change & multilateralism. election, in every election claims the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf positive suggestions.” in phases from April 5 ends. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Five people, including three children, injured in the accident, which happened when a speedboat collided with a cargo vessel.

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

AFGHANISTAN TIMES Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.afghanistantimes.af Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Advisory editorial board Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir Graphic-Designers: Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press

BY SERKAN DEMIRTAS running various multilateral ini- accept to attend the Istanbul presence will form the core of tiatives with other regional coun- Conference slated to take place NATO’s engagement by continu- tries for the well-being of Af- after Ramadan and sign the peace ing to provide support to the Af- Under normal conditions, Turkey ghanistan. Plus, Turkey is pre- agreement with the government. ghan security forces. “And we and Afghanistan would celebrate paring to host a historical con- Recent statements by the Tali- will also have to look into how the 100th anniversary of the es- ference in Istanbul where the ban are not very much promis- we can make sure that we do not tablishment of diplomatic ties Afghan government and the Tal- ing to this end. Even worse, some jeopardize the gains we have made The US is claiming to have degraded al-Qaeda’s presence in throughout this year. One of the iban are being expected to sign Taliban officials threatened to at- in the fight against international Afghanistan. US President Joe Biden has used the 10th anni- first decisions taken by the Turk- an agreement to end the chaos in tack the U.S. and NATO troops terrorism. Exactly how we will ish Parliament after its foundation the country. These days, Afghan- in Afghanistan on the ground that do that, exactly what role NATO versary of the raid that killed al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Lad- in 1921 was to open a representa- istan is at a very crucial point of they broke the 2020 agreement will have, is not yet decided. But en to support his decision to pull troops out of Afghanistan. tive office in Kabul. Afghanistan great historical importance. The for a complete withdrawal of for- all of these issues are on the ta- became the second nation for rec- United States officially started eign troops by May 1. ble,” he said. The terrorist group was the mastermind of 9/11 attacks. The ognizing the Turkish Parliament to withdraw its troops from Af- At this point, there are two im- One thing is pretty probable: in Ankara, thereby supporting the ghanistan on May 1 with expec- portant processes for the fate of There will be no new NATO mis- most interesting point of Biden’s statement is that he claimed establishment of the Republic of tations to complete the process Afghanistan. The first is wheth- sion in Afghanistan. Some coun- that al-Qaeda is greatly degraded and that’s why bringing Turkey in 1923. Turkey has had a by September 11, on the 20th er the Taliban will accept to at- tries, such as Turkey, which be- very special relationship with Af- anniversary of the al-Qaeda’s tend the conference and launch a lieve that Afghanistan should not America’s troops home. No one is trying to oppose Biden’s ghanistan despite going through attack against it. With the com- political transition with the Af- be left alone at this very crucial difficult times, especially in the pletion of the RSM, all other ghan government. So far, there is milestone, are pondering how to announcement or decision that he would end his country’s long- past 40 years. Maintenance of NATO countries will also pull no positive sign to this end. assist this country in the coming est war by September 11. The foreign troops have to go one unity and integrity of Afghanistan, back from Afghanistan, marking The second is about what NATO period. Given the vastness of the providing security and stability in the end of NATO’s longest-ever can do for Afghanistan as its 20- problems in Afghanistan and the day and the sooner is the better. But what Biden is saying is the country, and restoration of mission. Despite concerns that year mission terminates. As can fact that further deterioration of peace and prosperity by eliminat- the Taliban may take entire Af- be recalled, NATO has decided political stability and socio-eco- really out of milieu. He must remember this day almost one ing extremism and terrorism con- ghanistan under its control in two to withdraw troops at a meeting nomic conditions can cause the decade ago when the then US President Barack Obama ap- stitute Turkey’s primary pillars or three years and drag the held in Brussels on April 14. At resurrection of even more danger- of its Afghanistan policy. world’s one of the poorest na- a press conference on the same ous armed extremist groups, the proved a secret operation to target Osama bin Laden in his In that line, Turkey has been an tions into a new dark age and a day, NATO Secretary-General international community should active partner of NATO’s Afghan- civil war, U.S. President Joe Jens Stoltenberg underlined that find a way to continue its pres- residence in Pakistan. This is the first reminder for Biden to istan missions, the International Biden kept his promise to repa- NATO would continue to pro- ence in this country. Afghanistan summon up the place where Laden was killed. Second is that Security Assistance Force (ISAF) triate around 3,500 troops. vide support and work with Af- and Afghan people, who are al- between 2001 and 2014, and the Though, it’s not sure whether ghanistan, vowing to start a new ready very much worried about Laden was the leader and his elimination did not help to de- Resolute Support Mission (RSM) the start of the withdrawal will chapter in ties with Kabul. the future, should not be left to stroy al-Qaeda Terrorist Network in all of its manifestation – from 2015 until now. It has been be sufficient for the Taliban to Political efforts and diplomatic its fate. he was the leader and his elimination did not stop or weaken the group. The terrorist group already said they are still capable of attacking the US and the war against American’s is not Am erica Did Not over. Another issue is that Biden did not bother even to men- tion the place where Laden was killed. Pakistan is now clearly dumping its chest for supporting the militant groups. It’s Transform Afghanistan imperative for Biden to know that not only Laden, but the Tal- By Joschka Fischer went to Kabul and declared that iban leaders – Mullah Omer died in one of hospitals in Paki- "we're at a point where we clear- stan and his successor Mullah Akhtar Mansoor was killed by ly have moved from major com- President George W. Bush stood bat activity to a period of stabil- a US drone again in Pakistan while he was traveling to Iran. before the U.S. Capitol in 2005 ity and stabilization and recon- and delivered an Inaugural Ad- struction and activities." Even the country’s top leadership described bin Laden as a dress in which he declared his uto- "The bulk of this country today pian vision that the United States is permissive; it's secure," Rums- martyr, and also did not rule out their influence on Taliban had a mission to change the world. feld said. group, calming it was their pressure that Taliban agreed for He was wrong. History has now But then he added a caveat. proved it. "The survival of liberty "I should underline, however, peace talks. Like Laden’s death did not stop al-Qaeda’s fight- in our land increasingly depends that there are still dangers; there on the success of liberty in other are still pockets of resistance in ers from carrying attacks, the same the death of Mullah Omer lands," Bush said. "The best hope certain parts of the country," he for peace in our world is the ex- said. Two years after that, Bush and Mullah Akhtar Mansoor did not help degrade the group pansion of freedom in all the delivered that Inaugural Address rather they intensified their nefarious activities. It would be world." where he unilaterally declared Taliban, instituted their own jus- stan in May of this year, the "So, it is the policy of the United America's "goal of ending tyran- tice and security systems," said Trump administration dealt with naive to claim that bin Laden’s death degraded the whole ter- States," he said, "to seek and sup- ny in the world." the State Department's 2020 re- the Taliban -- not the Afghan gov- port the growth of democratic Six years after that, U.S. Navy port on human rights in Afghan- ernment. This month, President rorist network. Biden administration officials believe that the movements and institutions in Seals stormed a bunker in Ab- istan. "ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), Joe Biden stated that his admin- every nation and culture, with the bottabad, Pakistan, and deliv- an affiliate of ISIS and a U.S.- istration would follow through on threat from al-Qaeda has been sharply reduced since the US ultimate goal of ending tyranny in ered justice to Osama bin Laden. designated terrorist organization, Trump's agreement and "begin our our world." One place Bush was Now move forward another nine continued to target and kill mem- final withdrawal" from Afghani- invasion in 2001, but what if they reemerge more powerfully referring to then was a place Amer- years. Had Afghanistan become bers of minority religious com- stan on May 1. Seventy years ago, and more deadly once the drawdown is completed. The group ica was -- and still is (for now) -- a land of liberty by 2020? No. munities, and the Taliban again the great diplomat George Ken- at war: Afghanistan. Two decades "Conversion from Islam to an- targeted and killed individuals nan warned America against fight- is not eliminated fully, still they have links with the Taliban, ago, our country had an indisput- other religion is considered apos- because of their beliefs or their ing wars to advance a moralistic able justification for war in Af- tasy, which is punishable by links to the government," the vision rather than to prudentially and even the group thanked the Taliban for their fight against ghanistan. Its Taliban government death, imprisonment, or confis- State Department said in its reli- protect the interests of the Amer- had provided sanctuary to al-Qai- cation of property, according to gious freedom report. In August ican people. "In the old days, war- the US forces in Afghanistan till their defeat. Given the nature da in the lead-up to the Sept. 11, the Sunni Islam Hanafi school of 2019, for example, "ISIS-K at- time objectives were generally lim- of the treat right now, the hasty and irresponsible withdrawal 2001, terrorist attacks. After those jurisprudence," said the State tacked a wedding hall in a pre- ited and practical ones, and it was attacks, the House and Senate re- Department report on religious dominantly Shia neighborhood of common to measure the success with huge failure in the way of US campaign of war on terror solved: "That the President is au- freedom in Afghanistan released Kabul, killing 91 persons and of your military operations by the thorized to use all necessary and last year. "The constitution states wounding 143 others," said the extent to which they brought you would soon have consequences. appropriate force against those the Hanafi school of jurispru- State Department. In March closer to your objectives," he nations, organizations, or persons dence shall apply 'if there is no 2019, according to the depart- wrote in "American Diplomacy." he determines planned, autho- provision in the constitution or ment, "Media reported the Tali- "But where your objectives are rized, committed, or aided the ter- other laws about a case.'" ban killed a pregnant woman and moral and ideological ones and run rorist attacks that occurred on "According to international her unborn child ... for allegedly to changing the attitudes and tra- Subscription Rates September 11, 2001, or harbored sources," it said, "Baha'is and calling the Taliban's war against ditions of an entire people or the such organizations or persons, in Christians lived in constant fear the government 'illegitimate.'" On personality of a regime, then vic- Categories Fee order to prevent any future acts of exposure and were reticent to Nov. 2, 2020, "Three ISIS-K mil- tory is probably something not Afghanistan Times of international terrorism against reveal their identities to anyone." itants carried out an attack on to be achieved entirely by mili- the United States by such nations, Meanwhile, the Taliban still con- Kabul University with firearms tary means or indeed in any short Six Months $120 at your door step organizations or persons." The trols some Afghan territory, and and explosives, killing at least 22 space of time at all; and perhaps For fast delivery service U.S. military swiftly forced the the Islamic State and Levant- people and wounding 22 others," that is the source of our confu- One Year $240 Afghanistan Times seeks the Taliban out of power in Kabul, and Khorasan Province now terror- the lead inspector general for sion." Kennan was right. Bush Osama bin Laden, the leader of al- izes -- even in Kabul. "Some ar- Operation Freedom's Sentinel was wrong. The strategic aim of names, addresses of your Qaida, went into hiding in Paki- eas of the country were outside stated in his latest report. In ne- our government ought to always organizations and the number of stan. On May 1, 2003, then-De- of government control, and anti- gotiating the U.S. plan to with- be to protect and advance the lib- copies you want. fense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld government forces, including the draw our forces from Afghani- erty and security of this nation. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Was The American War To Liberate Afghan’s Women Worth I t? coup d’etat against the rule of Af- Afghanistan. “Haji Rakhmankul try. The security situation deteri- ghan President Mohammad Daud Khan was the last of their tradi- BY ZARIFA SABET orated after peace talk began in Khan, brought another change tional khans,” he says. “He had 2021. Many women and girls lost that divided the Pamir Kyrgyz. authority, but he also had the Armed conflicts primarily their lives in suicide attacks, many Haji Rakhmankul Khan, the ability to compel -- meaning he fought by men, who are killed women journalist, women in de- strongman leader of the Pamir could rule by force rather than or injured, but women are the fense and security sectors, civil Kyrgyz clans, organized an exo- by persuasion.” Callahan says victims of war in different ways activists, new born children and dus of some 1,500 herdsmen into the livestock holdings were much and therefore have different mother in intensive care beds, and Pakistan shortly before the Sovi- more evenly disbursed when needs at conflict resolution and women lawyers have been target- et invasion of Afghanistan. He left those who split with Rakhman- peace process. Many women ed and killed. only a few disgruntled families kul returned to Afghanistan. lost their lives or lost their hus- Human Right Watch Report high- behind in his stronghold, the Lit- “You didn’t have a khan who bands and children, and thus lights, threats and attacks against tle Pamir, and about 500 herders controlled all the livestock and their jobs, education opportu- journalists across the country have in the Big Pamir. “They saw the could withhold it from people,” nities, and many other profes- increased sharply since talks be- mobilization of Soviet forces he explains. “There weren’t any sional development opportuni- gan between the Afghan govern- across the border of Afghanistan,” extremely rich guys who were ties and they are disproportion- ment and the Taliban. NAI that Callahan explains. “By this point, interested in political power. So ately displaced by violence. support open media in Afghani- there was a lot of bad blood be- there hasn’t been the develop- Many women struggle with stan reports, with increasing se- tween the Pamir Kyrgyz and the ment of a highly vertical leader- poverty as result four decades curity threats in 2020, 200 wom- Soviets -- a long history of cross- ship structure there since then.” of conflict and instability. Rape en journalist left their jobs and 15 border raiding, punitive expedi- At one point, three different clan is one of the weapon of war, women journalist fled the coun- tions against the Kyrgyz in the leaders claimed to be the rightful and in some places women may try. NAI figures also suggests that Pamir. They feared that if the khan. “All of the subsequent be sexually assaulted. Four de- 17% of media employee are wom- Soviets came in they would be khans have had to work through cades of war and instability have en but after the peace talk began persecuted.” Callahan says the consensus,” he says. “They costed the lives of hundreds of the number of women’s journal- exodus became a great opportu- haven’t had power in the sense thousands of men, women and ists have dramatically decreased nity for most of those who stayed of being able to force anybody to children. Afghanistan’s women from 1900 to 1700 women. In big behind in the Big Pamir because do anything.” paid a very high price during cities such as Kabul, Herat, Maz- A Pamir Kyrgyz mother cuts the fabric of a rug to stitch together new clothes, studied closely by her son. “they were freed from Haji Ra- That gives members of today’s four decades of war and insta- ar-e Sharif, Qandahar and Jalala- khmankul’s autocratic leader- Pamir Kyrgyz community in bility in the country. Starting bad women journalists are re- ship.” Afghanistan more independence from Soviet invasion in Afghan- stricted inside their offices. In “They had a lot of pasture open to decide for themselves wheth- istan (1979-1989), Afghani- 2020, 50 media has been close By Ron Synovitz roof of the world” that they call ir and part of the Big Pamir be- up,” Callahan says. “Relatively er or not to accept Japarov’s of- stan’s Civil Wars (1989 – 1996), down and 200 employees of the home -- the Big Pamir and the tween the borders of what is now few actually moved into the Lit- fer to resettle in Kyrgyzstan. Taliban’s rule (1996-2001) and medias have left their jobs. This Little Pamir. Just days before Tajikistan, China, Pakistan, and tle Pamir because there wasn’t Nomadic Life vs. Modern World Resettling an entire ethnic group the U.S.-led military interven- report, also highlights, journalists, Japarov announced his initiative, Pakistani-administered Kashmir. enough manpower there for their The rhythm of life for the no- tion in Afghanistan. The disas- human rights activists, civil soci- in another country is a monumen- Afghan Foreign Minister Mo- In an attempt to bring their Great labor-intensive lifestyle.” madic Kyrgyz in Afghanistan is tal task fraught with legal, politi- trous consequences of many ety activists and government em- hammad Hanif Atmar met in Game confrontations to an end in A recent, but rare, aid mission still the sun and seasons, not decades of war have weighed ployee, particularly women are cal, and logistical complications. Kyrgyzstan with Pamir Kyrgyz the 1890s, cartographers from tsa- delivered food, vitamins, medi- manmade clocks. During the But that’s what Kyrgyz President heavily on the women of Af- deliberated targeted by Taliban families who’ve resettled there rist Russia and British Colonial cine, and blankets to 154 families summer, they live in yurts on the ghanistan. Through years of forces. In spite of all these chal- Sadyr Japarov wants to do with since 2017. They said it’s impor- India created the panhandle of in Wakhan, which is home to one southern side of the Big Pamir 1,500 nomadic Pamir Kyrgyz fighting, destruction and dis- lenges, Afghanistan’s women are tant to be granted Kyrgyz citi- northeast Afghanistan, known as of the most remote communities and Little Pamir valleys -- the placement, Afghan women have not the helpless victims of war and who eke out a pastoral existence zenship as soon as possible -- a the Wakhan Corridor, as a buffer in the world. “What also hap- shady side -- where they tend in the most remote corner of struggled with poverty to sup- conflict, but they are strong agents legal status allowing them to trav- zone between their empires. Then, pened is that the others left a lot their sheep, goats, and yaks. port and sustain their families. of change, in spite poverty, cul- northeast Afghanistan. A century el abroad as well as clearing bu- following the Central Asian revolt of their livestock behind, think- In the winter, they “up stick” of isolation in the panhandle of They have been subjected to a tural and social restriction with reaucratic hurdles for state pen- of 1916 in Russia’s Turkestan re- ing their move to Pakistan was their yurts and move to mudbrick wide range of human rights and limited freedom, opportunities Badakhshan Province has insulat- sions and social benefits. gion, Kyrgyz refugees fled into going to be a temporary reloca- huts they’ve built on the north ed the Pamir Kyrgyz from the gender based discriminations and resources they had outstand- They’ve seen progress on that western China and the Wakhan tion and they would potentially side of the Little Pamir valley and abuses such as rape and sex- ing achievements in short period decades of war that have ravaged issue. Corridor to escape a ruthless crack- come back,” he said. But life as floor and near the Panj River in Afghanistan. But life there can be ual assault, forced marriage, and of time. As BBC Persian report, On April 28, Bishkek granted down by Russian forces. Today’s refugees in a relatively low-alti- the Big Pamir. There is more sun many other discriminations per- currently there are about four mil- as harsh as the winter winds. Kyrgyz citizenship to 44 former Pamir Kyrgyz in the Wakhan Cor- tude part of Pakistan proved to there, which means the snow With a diet devoid of fruits and petrated by different parties to lion girls are going to school and Pamir residents who’ve resettled ridor are descendants of the no- be difficult for them. Before long, melts faster. And the mudbrick the Afghanistan’s conflict. more than I lakh girls are going to vegetables, and with only sporad- in the village of Sary-Mogol in madic herders who sought safety more than 100 died in the warm- shelters give better protection ic medical care from traveling doc- Women have been publicly ha- universities, about ten thousand the Alay district of the Osh re- there in 1916. er climate. “They sent a scouting from the winter winds that scour rassed, intimidated, beaten and women are working security sectors, the Pamir Kyrgyz have one gion. But others say they still Ted Callahan, an anthropologist mission back into Afghanistan the valley’s gently rising sides. of the world’s highest infant mor- publicly executed by insurgents tors, and about one lakh and four have concerns about the provi- who lived with the Pamir Kyrgyz after the Soviets did invade, and Tobias Marschall, an anthropol- for carrying out activities thousand are civil servants. There tality rates and shortest life ex- sion of land plots and the trans- for some 15 months between 2006 it turned out that things weren’t ogist who spent about 11 months pectancies. Last winter was par- deemed to be anti-Islamic. are women who cross the social formation of the land. The Kyr- and 2010, says the development so bad there,” Callahan explains. living with the Pamir Kyrgyz Under the Taliban rule, women and traditional norms, they be- ticularly brutal. Even with heli- gyz government has already paid of the Soviet Union after Russia’s “Meanwhile, there were fissures nomads between 2015 and 2019, copters airlifting emergency med- are being denied completely came entrepreneur, pilot, sport for the transit of 33 resettled 1917 Bolshevik Revolution growing within the Kyrgyz com- says clan elders have mixed views from public participation, and women and took many other oc- ical and food supplies, scores of Pamir Kyrgyz and provided changed the lives of the nomadic munity in Pakistan.” about whether they should stay Pamir Kyrgyz nomads died from they banned girls and women to cupations which are not expected homes for them. Afghan officials herders immensely. “Prior to the “Some who were still close to or go. “I know from a lot of fam- get education and have employ- of women in traditional society illness and malnutrition. Japarov have declined to comment pub- establishment of a hard border, Haji Rakhmankul were willing to ilies that a lot of people don’t is vowing to build new houses for ment opportunities. During the like Afghanistan. In spite of some licly on the resettlement propos- they had freely crossed the Panj stay with him -- his kinfolk and want to leave the Afghan Pamir,” Taliban era women and girls are achievements in term women’s all of them within the mountain- al. Afghan government sources River going from what’s now others,” Callahan says. In 1982, Marschall tells RFE/RL. “They ous Chong-Alay district of Kyr- completely restricted inside the right in the country still there are privately tell RFE/RL it is a sen- Tajikistan into Afghanistan,” Cal- Ankara agreed to host Rakhman- resist those plans to be relocated houses and they could not go many challenges against women gyzstan’s southwestern Osh re- sitive issue that is “under assess- lahan explains. “But Soviet troops kul Khan and 1,200 Pamir Kyr- in Kyrgyzstan and don’t want gion. “The hardships of the Pam- out without being accompanied and girls, particularly in rural ar- ment.” Scalloped out by a glacier were sent to garrison that border gyz refugees still with him in Pa- to be framed as people who need by male family members or eas. Researches shows that, in- ir Kyrgyz have been constantly in mountains that tower more and enforce border controls that kistan. A United Nations airlift help. They value the lives they disturbing my thoughts for a long Mahram. All Afghan political stead of economic, social, and po- than 7,000 meters above sea lev- divided the Big Pamir.” “The Pam- delivered them to a new settle- have in this land.” Zabihullah Ta- groups have used the status of litical empowerment, Afghan time,” Japarov said on April 4. "I el, the Big Pamir and Little Pam- ir Kyrgyz found it much more dif- ment near Van Lake in mostly tar, head of the Kabul-based Af- have had the desire for them to be women as a political tool to women in rural areas where an es- ir valleys lie along the route that ficult to follow their nomadic sea- Kurdish southeastern Turkey. ghan Tatar Cultural Foundation, claim legitimacy or popularity. timated 76 percent of the coun- resettled in their historical home- Venetian merchant-traveler Mar- sonal patterns in which they’d of- Today, that community in the says there are various reasons land for a long time and now I After all these sufferings U.S. try’s women live experience the co Polo took on his journey to ten go up to the Pamirs for the village of Uluu Pamir, Turkey, is why ethnic Tatars in Afghanistan involvement was a turning point devastation of bloody and inten- mean to realize these intentions.” China in the late 13th century. summer and spend the winter in more than 2,500 strong and is have been largely forgotten over “I will do this as soon as possi- for women rights in the country sifying fighting between the Tali- Central Asian historians say the lower lying areas -- whether that seen as an example of a success- the centuries. “One of the lead- and a hope to end the 20 years ban and government forces and ble,” Japarov said. “This issue Pamir valleys were a place of sea- was in China or [Imperial] Rus- ful resettlement. Meanwhile, ers told me ‘I will be the last one will be under my control. We do of conflict in the country. 20 local militias. There is a huge gap sonal migration for nomadic Kyr- sia,” Callahan told RFE/RL. “The about 50 families who were un- to leave the Afghan Pamir,'” Mar- years ago American invaded Af- between urban and rural women. have financial resources and a plan gyz herders at least as far back geopolitical forces around them happy with Rakhmankul Khan’s schall says. “He was expressing about how and where they will ghanistan and George Bush de- There is a small change for the life as the 1570s. They pastured live- hardened the borders,” Callahan leadership refused to go with him his opposition to the resettle- clared the war on terror, one of of Afghanistan’s women in urban be relocated. We will create good stock there during the second half says. “They found that Afghani- to Turkey. They packed up their ment plan. There is opportunity conditions for them.” Implement- the main aim of this war was to areas, but for many rural women, of the 19th century when the stan offered them a safe haven. So yurts in Pakistan and returned to in the relative freedom of being protect women’s rights in the actual life has not changed much ing the plan will require at least mountain valleys were on the they adapted their pastoral nomad- Afghanistan. Callahan, whose re- so remote and owning the re- tacit approval and cooperation country and the first lady Lura from the Taliban era. They are still fringe of the expanding Imperial ic structure to a much more con- search has focused on the politi- sources there.” Bush in her radio address an- fully dependent on men for per- from Afghanistan’s government. Russian Empire’s Turkestan re- strained environment, living in the cal power structure of the Pamir “This doesn’t mean every leader It also will require the willingness nounced “the fight against ter- mission to access health care, at- gion. It was the geopolitics of the Pamir Mountains of Afghanistan Kyrgyz clans, says there was a wants to remain,” Marschall con- rorism is also a fight for the right tend school, and work. Typically, of the Pamir Kyrgyz themselves late 19th and early 20th centu- full time.” Afghanistan’s Saur Rev- much bigger fracturing of leader- cludes. “It will be a mixed reac- to leave the two valleys on “the and dignity of women”. During families allow their girls to have a ries that boxed in the Little Pam- olution of 1978, a Soviet-backed ship when he lived with them in tion as it was already. Barack Obama administration, primary or secondary education Secretary of State Hillary Clin- usually up to puberty after they ton said “the preconditions for remain at home or get marriage. U.S. negotiations with the Tali- One of the main purposes of US At Tehran garage, Iranian ban included the Taliban’s re- intervention to Afghanistan was India'scatastrophic nunciation of al-Qaida and their to protect women’s rights in the commitment to uphold the Af- country, but after 20 years of woman polishes cars and her dreams ghan constitution and protect American presence in Afghanistan women’s rights”. women still does not have any BY MASSOUMEH TORFEH other children in Agh Mazar. But the paint of her customers’ cars, secondwave:Whyit 20 years after Taliban removed decision making and meaningful unlike her five siblings, she had she recounted. Others tampered from power, in spite of so many role in all process particularly in peace process. When it comes to It’s a men’s-only club in the tan- her eyes on her father’s tractor, with her machines and tore up the restrictions for women in some and developed an uncanny knack costly pads that she purchased urban areas of the country have rural women, it is completely a gle of auto repair shops on the matterseverywhere relative freedoms for instance, different story. On 14 April, with her life’s savings, she said. traffic-clogged streets of Iran’s for driving it at an early age. freedom of mobility, girls are Biden administration announced Even as she worked as a hair- Complaints to the garage’s owner capital, Tehran. Among them, BY DANIEL VAN ed in a single day by a single coun- going to schools, women have US troops are withdrawing from workers toil in dim garages, weld- dresser and studied to become a went nowhere and without hard try. On April 31, it became the the opportunity to work, and Afghanistan on, 20th anniversary ing and wrenching, fabricating and makeup artist in Bojnurd, the evidence, the police couldn’t help first country to record over currently there are ten thousand of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks that painting. That’s until Maryam provincial capital, a greater pas- either. Roohani wanted to cut and The epicenter of the COVID-19 400,000 positive tests in a 24 Afghan women employed in drew the United States into its Roohani, 34, pops up from under sion pulled her in: applying fin- run after that. But her reputation pandemic has changed regularly period. The catastrophe of this defense and security sectors longest war. On his statement he a car’s hood at a maintenance shop ishes to cars. To the scorn of vil- had grabbed the attention of a over the past 14 months, shifting second gargantuan surge is com- US and Taliban Peace Deal and said “Afghanistan should not be in northeastern Tehran, her dirt- lagers and some family members, prominent Tehran auto shop, from Wuhan to northern Italy to pounded by the country's lack- its Negative Impact on Women used as base to attack our home- and grease-stained uniform pulled she traded used cars for extra cash which suddenly offered her a job. New York before ravaging entire ing medical infrastructure. Hos- February, 29, 2020 US and the land again, we did that and we ac- over black jeans and long hair and dreamed of working as a car For the past few years, she has countries and continents. The US pitals throughout the country are Taliban signed a historic peace complished that objective”. As per tucked into a baseball cap — polisher and detailer. Although lived out her dream as a profes- and South America have been the short on beds and especially ox- deal in Doha to end twenty Biden statement the war on terror which in her work, replaces Iran’s relatives turned against her and sional car polisher, detailer and worst hit in recent months, but years’ of conflict in the coun- was to protect American home- ygen, which is needed to treat try. Following the US-Taliban land and he said noting about pro- compulsory Islamic headscarf for cut off contact, her father had a washer. Roohani even now trains now the epicenter has shifted severe cases of COVID-19, such women, or hijab. Buffing a blue more liberal attitude, supporting and inspires other women to do once more. India has seen a dra- peace deal the intra Afghan talk tecting women’s rights and hu- that the country's air force is now began in September, 12, 2020, man’s rights after their withdraw- BMW sedan in the shop until it her despite the pushback and let- the same despite the obstacles. Her matic spike in cases and deaths air lifting oxygen to hospitals. ting her postpone marriage to online videos include her hard at since the beginning of March, a from the 21 Afghanistan ‘s gov- al from Afghanistan. Women rights shines, she couldn’t be farther And though India is the world's ernment negotiators, only four were used by Bush Administra- from the farms of her childhood. pursue her love of polishing. work polishing a vintage Chevro- second wave of COVID-19 that biggest manufacturer of vaccines, tion to legitimize their interven- There were no international car let Chevelle or smiling over the are women. There was not even In the rural, tribal village of Agh is likely to have global implica- only 1.3% of its population was a single woman from the Tali- tion in Afghanistan. Women are Mazar near Iran’s northeastern polish training programs she hood of a freshly detailed jet-black tions. By signing up, you agree fully inoculated against COVID- ban delegates and it shows that still being publicly executed in border with Turkmenistan, girls could find in the rolling wheat BMW, so smooth that a plastic to our Terms of Use and acknowl- 19 by mid-April. The result is a their approaches toward wom- Taliban control areas, The Taliban get married after hitting puberty and barley fields of North Kho- cup slides down it. “I got excited edge the data practices in our Pri- sharp increase in the official death en have not been changed yet. group’s deputy chief, Mullah Ab- and devote their lives to raising rasan province, nor elsewhere in the first time I saw (Roohani) be- vacy Policy. You may unsub- toll. Reported deaths rarely ex- Afghanistan president Ashraf dul Ghani Baradar, said in a children. “I have sort of broken the country at the time. So she cause in Iran, with its limitations scribe at any time. At the height ceeded 200 a day in February, but Ghani, established the High speech late last year: “The only taboos,” Roohani said at the ga- flew to Turkey, where she bat- for women, we are not usually of India's first wave, during Au- have surged to well over 2,000- Council for National Reconcili- work done under the shadow of rage, where she carefully coats tled male skeptics to earn her car trusted to do such jobs,” said Farah- gust of 2020, the country was per-day in the last week. What ation headed by Abdullah Ab- occupation, in the name of wom- cars with attention-getting gleams polishing certificate. Armed with naz Deravi, one of Roohani’s train- recording around 90,000 new makes these numbers even more dullah, a higher supervisory en’s rights, is the promotion of and scrapes sludge from their en- credentials, she set up shop in a ees. Interest in auto repair work cases a day. The world's second scary is that they're probably body to monitor and direct the immorality and anti-Islamic cul- gines. “I faced opposition when I small, rented space at a Tehran has exploded in Iran since former most populous country managed inaccurate. The real rise in cases negotiating team. Out of 46 ture.” Taliban and other insurgent chose this path.” The auto indus- garage. Customers flocked to President Donald Trump with- to flatten the curve. By February members only nine are women, groups even targeting children and and deaths, some experts worry, while former warlords and old- their mothers in hospitals. On try remains male-dominated marvel at the area’s first female drew from Tehran’s landmark nu- many days passed in which new- is significantly worse. "Last year around the world, let alone in the car detailer, snapping photos and clear deal with world powers and ly recorded cases were below er male powerbrokers dominate May 12, 2020 gunmen attacked we estimated that only one in in the list. The Doha talk ended the Médecins Sans Frontières tradition-bound Islamic Republic. sharing footage on social media. imposed biting sanctions. To pre- 10,000. Then in early March, the about 30 infections were being Her Instagram account and on- serve its foreign currency, Iran numbers began to climb. And without any concrete results. 12 (MSF)-run maternity wing of the Still Iranian women, especially in caught by testing," Ramanan top Afghan politicians and Ja- Dasht-e Barchi hospital in Kabul, the cities, have made inroads over line persona as Iran’s “Miss De- banned the import of Asian and climb. And climb. And rocket. Laxminarayan, director of New Official numbers indicate that 24 tailer” grew. But her initial suc- European-made cars, causing pric- hadi leaders led by Head of the the years. They now make up over For the past two weeks, India Dheli's Center for Disease Dy- High Council for National Rec- people were killed and at least 20 half of all college graduates and a cesses drew resentment from es of the vehicles to quadruple. Ira- has recorded at least 200,000 new namics, Economics and Policy, onciliation Abdullah Abdullah more injured, a large majority of sizable part of the workforce. male colleagues — and at times, nians with the means to own ex- coronavirus cases each day. Over told CNN. "This time, the mor- on march this year left Kabul them patients. MSF confirm that A farmer’s daughter, Roohani grew even sabotage. Some tainted her pensive cars cherish them more 360,000 cases were recorded on tality figures are probably seri- for Moscow to attend a pro- 26 mothers were hospitalized at up laboring on the land like most polishing pads with acid to burn than ever and pay hefty. April 27, the highest ever record- ous underestimates, and what posed multilateral conference the time of the attack. Eleven were we're seeing on the ground is with the Taliban in the Russian killed; three of them in the deliv- many more deaths than what has capital. Among 12 men there was ery room with their unborn ba- been officially reported." The only one woman. It shows that bies. Five others were injured. Disclaimer: impact is three fold. First is the women and other victims of war Among the dead are two young The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) obvious cost in human life. With and conflict are not represented boys and an MSF midwife. Two a population of 1.3 billion and an sufficiently in peace process newborn babies were wounded, as and it is elite men and Jehadi well as three Afghan MSF staff. and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Afghanistan Times. already overwhelmed medical leaders who decide for the fu- US did not put any condition for system, the death toll. ture fate of women in the coun- the Taliban upon. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

meeting of the so-called Econom- ic Cooperation Organization which was formed in 1985 to fa- Pakistan army’s insatiable hun- provides real estate windfalls to cilitate trade between Turkey, ger for land is no secret. Infact the men in uniform while catering Iran, and Pakistan. Though it has it’s so pronounced that it even to the residential and commercial been largely moribund, the tim- found prominence during the aspirations of the super-rich.” ing of its re-emergence is impor- 2007 lawyers’ protest against In her well researched book tant as it is designed to be a piece Gen Pervez Musharraf’s deci- ‘Military Inc: Inside Pakistan’s in the new Turkish jigsaw. Tur- sion to remove Chief Justice Ift- Military Economy’, leading de- key is slowly trying to build an ikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, fence analyst Ms Ayesha Siddiqa economic and cultural basis for when protesters carried banners also provides an insight into Raw- cooperation based on the Turk- proclaiming ‘Ae watan ke sajeele alpindi’s humungous greed for ish Cooperation and Coordina- Genrailo; saaray ruqbey tumhare land. She reveals that Pakistan tion Agency founded in 1991 and liye hain’ [O’ handsome Gener- army possesses 12 percent of the the Turkic Council in 2009. Al- als of the country, all plots of country’s land, out of which two- though Turkey’s economic pres- land are just for you].” Nine years thirds is owned by senior mili- ence in the region remains over- later, in an article titled article tary officers. So, while there was shadowed by China and Russia, ‘Lust for Land’ [published in a furore when news of outgoing there is a potential to exploit. ‘Dawn’, on 27 August 2016], Pakistan army chief Gen Raheel Regional dependence on Russia former civil servant and respect- Sharif being gifted 90 acres of land and China is not always wel- ed freelance Pakistani columnist leaked out, yet this long continu- Turkey’s foreign policy is at a Turkey is increasingly able to January’s Azerbaijan-Turkmen- ther Russia nor Iran welcome this come and Central Asian states Irfan Husain lamented how “The ing illegal practice wasn’t rescind- crossroads. Its Eurasianist twist puncture Russia’s underbelly. istan agreement which aims to — both oppose Turkey’s ambi- looking for alternatives to re-bal- military has long been expanding ed- a clear proof that in Pakistan, is gaining momentum and looking Take Azerbaijan’s victory in Sec- jointly develop the Dostluk tions of becoming an energy hub ance see Turkey as a good candi- its footprint across Pakistan’s the armed forces are law unto east is becoming a new norm. Ex- ond Karabakh War. It is rarely no- (Friendship) gas field under the and finding new sources of ener- date. Furthermore, states such as cities through its multiplying de- themselves! Two years later, in panding its reach into Central ticed that the military triumph has Caspian Sea, and it recently host- gy. Official visits followed. On Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan fence societies.” There’s nothing another scathing attack on Paki- Asia, in the hope of forming an also transformed the country into ed a trilateral meeting with the March 6-9, Turkish Foreign Min- are also cash-strapped, which wrong in armed forces creating stan army’s monstrous greed for alliance of sorts with the Turkic- a springboard for Turkey’s ener- Azerbaijani and Turkmen foreign ister Mevlüt Çavusoglu visited increases the potential for Turk- ‘defence housing societies’ land, Supreme Court Judge Jus- speaking countries — Kazakh- gy, cultural and geopolitical inter- ministers. The progress around Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and ish involvement. There is also [DHA] for welfare of its rank tice Gulzar Ahmed observed that stan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, ests in the Caspian Sea region of Dostlug removes a significant Kyrgyzstan. Defense coopera- another dimension to the east- and file, but Husain’s damning “DHA of Karachi have encroached and Turkmenistan — is beginning Central Asia. Just two months af- roadblock on the implementation tion, preferential trade deals, and ward push. Turkey increasingly revelation of how “Land is ac- so far into the sea. If they had to look more realistic. In the north, ter the November ceasefire in of the much-touted Trans-Cas- a free trade agreement were dis- views Ukraine, Georgia, and quired [by DHAs] at nominal their way, they would build a city the north-east, in Ukraine, Geor- Nagorno-Karabakh, Turkey signed pian Pipeline (TCP) which would cussed in Tashkent. Turkey also Azerbaijan as parts of an emerg- rates from provincial govern- on the sea. The owners of DHA gia, and Azerbaijan, there is an a new trade deal with Azerbaijan. allow gas to flow through the resurrected a regional trade agree- ing geopolitical area that can help ments, and developed with mon- [Pakistan army] would encroach identifiable geopolitical arc where Turkey also sees benefits from South Caucasus to Europe. Nei- ment during a March 4 virtual it balance Russia’s growing. ey taken as advance payments on the entire sea all the way to for residential and commercial America and then plant their flags plots from officers,”is disquiet- there. The owners of DHA are ing. However, even far more dis- wondering how they can make paraging is his assertion that “Al- inroads into India!” The very next lotment letters are then sold to year, Chief Justice Athar Minal- How The UN Betrayed civilians at several multiples of lah of Islamabad High Court or- the price they paid,” as it’s un- dered sealing of Rawal Lake Club, doubtedly a brazen misuse of which had been illegally con- privilege by Pakistan army. The structed by Pakistan Navy with- The Women Of Iran fact that army’s media wing In- out prior clearance from Pakistan ter Services Public Relations Environment Protection Agency When Iran was elected by the UN portunities and tools to improve did not report the crime because Economic and Social Council to their own living standards and they feared official retaliation or [ISPR] didn’t rebut these pejo- or approval from Capital Defence its Commission on the Status of make informed choices. Is this how punishment for having been rative accusations proves that Authority. Just three months Women, concerns were raised the women of the Islamic Repub- raped, including charges of inde- Husain obviously knew his thereafter, Supreme Court Judge about the kind of message the lic of Iran are being treated by their cency, immoral behavior, or adul- beans! In another comprehen- Justice Qazi Faez Isa observed international organization was own government? tery, the last in which convic- sive news-report [‘Qayyuma- that “The laws governing civil and sending to the world. Since the Last week the US State Depart- tion carries the death penalty. bad’s long battle against DHA,’ armed forces personnel do not commission’s job is the global ment published its 2020 report on Rape victims also feared societal published in ‘Dawn’ on 22 Au- entitle them to receive residential promotion of equality and wom- human rights in Iran. It highlight- reprisal or ostracism,” the report gust 2016], Fahim Zaman and plots, commercial plots or agri- en’s empowerment, the minimum ed the dire struggle of Iranian said, pointing out that about 80 Naziha Syed Ali have revealed cultural land. Kyrgyz-Tajik border requirement for membership women who live at the mercy of a percent of rape cases went unre- that “Through the years, the res- If lands are given to only one should be respect for women and misogynistic regime that does not ported. Living under one of the idents of Qayyumabad have con- category like the members of the crossing points remain their right to make their own de- recognize human rights in the first most oppressive regimes in the sistently maintained that DHA armed forces and the civilians in cisions. As a woman who was place. According to the report, do- world, how is it possible for Ira- has unlawfully grabbed 53.22 the service of Pakistan are disre- born and raised in the Middle mestic violence is not prohibited nian girls to dream of a bright acres that are part of their local- garded, it constitutes discrimina- closed after border conflict East and has spent most of her by Iranian laws; domestic abuse future filled with possibilities? ity, including 30.32 acres ear- tion and offends the fundamental adult life fighting for women’s is considered a private matter, and How could anyone convince a marked as amenity areas to serve right of equality.” He also lament- Border crossing points on Kyr- clashes at their contested border rights in this troubled region, I seldom discussed publicly. Be- young Iranian girl that when she their needs. ed that “Nevertheless, senior gyz-Tajik border are closed tem- in decades. The Kyrgyz interior was insulted and flabbergasted cause the law gives men in Iran grows up she can be whoever she However, their negligible politi- members of the armed forces get porarily. Reopening of border ministry said that casualties on its by this outrageous move, given the ultimate power over their wants, do anything she desires, cal and financial clout puts them plots and agricultural lands and crossing points will be considered side had risen to over 160 with 34 Iran’s poor record in that area and wives, sisters and daughters, and and achieve all the dreams in the at a huge disadvantage in trying continue to be given additional upon complete stabilization of the deaths, 31 of whom were civilians. many others. To empower wom- the freedom to do whatever they world, while this same girl can to establish their claim.” The au- plots and agricultural lands as situation, Nazaraly uulu Talant- The ministry also said it had en in any country, its government see fit to physically punish wom- see fear in her mother’s eyes? thors have rightly pointed out they rise up the ranks.” This ob- bek, Vice Chief of Main Border opened 11 criminal cases targeting needs to change and improve the en, it is impossible to estimate the The regime that was elected by that the locals “are, after all, up servationexposes the deep rot Protection Department of the citizens of Tajikistan in connec- circumstances of their lives to number of victims of domestic vi- 43 nations to be a global guard- against DHA, the country’s most that exists within Pakistan’s powerful land authority that armed forces. Border Service, said. tion with the violence, including provide them with the right op- olence. “Most rape victims likely ian of women’s rights. "This is the first conflict of such investigations into murder and il- scale since 2013. Minor conflicts legal border crossings. occurred in Ak-Sai and Kulundu Clashes between communities villages before. Now the conflict over land and water along the long- Wanted! occurred between Leilek and Bat- contested border are regular occur- W hy the Pentagon I s Focused ken districts," he said. Kyr- rences, with border guards often gyzstan said a ceasefire with getting involved. RealAction Tajikistan was holding on Sun- But the violence that erupted on on the Hypersonic Missile Race day, as it accused citizens from Thursday was by far the most se- For Media its Central Asian neighbor of rious during the ex-Soviet pair's 30 The forthcoming AGM-183A personics in the office of the un- ic technology. The efforts will flight," said Brig. Gen. Heath crimes during the pair's worst years of independence. ARRW (reportedly pronounced dersecretary of defense for re- soon be put to the test. On March Collins, Air Force Program Ex- "Arrow") is reported to be capa- search and engineering, said that 5, the United States Air Force ecutive Officer for Weapons via Freedom In ble of reaching speeds between the DoD has developed a hyper- announced that it is preparing for a statement. "The team has suc- 5,000 and 6,000 miles per hour, sonics weapons modernization the first booster test flight cessfully dealt with COVID chal- or roughly between Mach 6.5 and strategy that would accelerate the (BTF-1) of its AGM-183A Air- lenges and resolved technical find- Europe Azerbaijan talkstwo Mach 8. At such speed the mis- development and delivery of trans- launched Rapid Response Weap- ings not uncommon in a first-of- sile could hit a target 1,000 miles formational warfighting capabili- on (ARRW), which is expected a-kind weapon system," added large-scale projects for away in just ten to twelve min- ties. "We will deliver strike capa- to take place in the next 30 days. Gen. Collins. "We have mini- In a statement issued ahead of utes. Last month the Department bility to the warfighter in the ear- The ARRW test missile was mized schedule delays while World Press Freedom Day on 3 of Defense (DoD) identified hy- ly-mid 2020s and a layered hy- delivered to Edwards Air Force maintaining a laser focus on en- May, Council of Europe Secre- revival of Karabakh personic weapons as one of the personic defense capability — Base, California on March 1, and gineering rigor. Our first BTF will tary General Marija Pejcinovic highest priority modernization first terminal and then glide phase it has been loaded onto a B-52H happen in the next 30 days, fol- Buric urged European govern- The process of creating modern iary buildings is currently under- areas for the United States mili- — in the mid-late 2020s," White Stratofortress. The immediate lowed by several additional ments to show stronger political infrastructure continues at an ac- way. The runway, air navigation, tary, as potential near-peer ad- said. "For reusable systems, our work has also begun on pre-flight boosters and all-up-round test will to protect journalists and in- celerated pace in the territories of water and power supply systems, versaries including China and goal is to deliver capability in the ground tests and checks to ob- flights by the end of the year." dependent journalism in order to Azerbaijan liberated from Arme- the airport control tower will be Russia develop their own capa- early to mid-2030s." tain certification for the flight to The forthcoming AGM- put a stop to the deterioration of nian occupation, Trend’s Kara- built by September 5th. All con- ble systems. At the Air Force As- Over the past twenty-five proceed as scheduled. "The BTF- 183A ARRW (reportedly pro- media freedom in the continent. bakh Bureau reports. struction work is scheduled to be sociation's virtual Aerospace years, the Air Force Research Lab- 1 test vehicle is complete and is nounced "Arrow") is reported to “Media freedom is an essen- Currently, the International Air- completed by the end of 2021,” Warfare Symposium, Mike oratory has invested more than progressing through ground test- be capable of reaching speeds tial pillar of our democracies which port in Fuzuli and the 'Victory Amirasalnov said. Azerbaijani MP White, principal director for hy- $1.7 billion to develop hyperson- ing to verify its readiness for between 5,000 and 6,000 miles. is too often taken for granted. Road' to Shusha are being built. Vugar Bayramov, who visited the Respect for freedom of the media The film crew of Trend’s Kara- construction site, told Trend that is in decline in many countries. In bakh bureau viewed the construc- the airport under construction in the last years, we have witnessed tion work on the spot, met with Fuzuli is one of the important in- Slovenia: President an increase in the number of cases the direct executors of the project frastructure projects for the devel- Is Poland At Risk of violence and intimidation and experts, inquired about the opment of the region. According against journalists,” said Secretary details of the construction. to the MP, the airport will be con- Borut Pahor Strengthens General. During the Covid-19 Representative of Azerbaijan Air- nected by road with the Zangezur For Atrocity Crimes? pandemic, there was a strong rise lines (AZAL) Valeh Amiraslanov corridor, which will become part in reports of violence against jour- told Trend that about 450 people of the East-West transport corri- Ties WithAlbania nalists as well as censorship and When COVID-19 forced coun- reprisals for questioning govern- are involved in the construction dor. MP noted that the construc- tries to impose widespread lock- of the airport in Fuzuli. “The con- tion of the 'Victory Road' to downs last year, there was a con- ments policies. At the same time, struction of the runway, apron, Shusha is also ongoing. current surge in gender based vi- quality media face serious eco- access roads, terminal and auxil- (Trend) olence and domestic abuse. The nomic challenges and many jour- United Nations has called this a nalists have lost their jobs due to “shadow pandemic” in which the pandemic. These worrying lockdowns everywhere lead to a trends are highlighted in my an- 3,805 COVID-19 patients sharp increase in gender based nual report to be published. It is violence. This includes Poland, time to recall that states have an registered in Kyrgyzstan, where even before the pandemic obligation to ensure that journal- levels of gender based violence der. It has imposed a near-total ban ists can carry out their work free were extremely high. During the on abortion and is seeking to with- On March 4-5, 2019, upon the Slovenian Government is vital to from violence and intimidation and 448 - in serious condition first month of the lockdown in draw from a key treaty to combat invitation of the President of the other countries in the Balkans fulfil their role as public “watch- March 2020, the country’s larg- violence against women known as Republic of Albania, Ilir Meta, including Albania. President Pa- dog”, which includes holding pub- At least 3,805 people are current- pneumonia for 24 hours in Kyr- est women’s rights center re- the Istanbul Convention. the President of the Republic of hor’s visit to Tirana is a clear lic authorities accountable for ly receiving treatment for coro- gyzstan. Some 131 people have ceived a 50% increase in calls to My guest today, Annie Hyl- Slovenia, Borut Pahor, conduct- demonstration of support to- their decisions and action. The navirus in Kyrgyzstan. The Min- recovered in Bishkek, in Osh city its emergency domestic abuse ton is an independent investiga- ed an official visit to Albania; to wards securing a more prosper- Council of Europe stands ready istry of Health and Social Devel- — 6, in Chui region — 51, in Jalal- hotline. tive journalist who examined the strengthen the bilateral econom- ous partnership and strategic di- to support its member states to opment reported. At least 2,307 Abad region — 1, in Issyk-Kul This COVID-induced spike increase in gender-based violence ic dialogue. Slovenia, as a mem- alogue between both nations es- create and promote an environ- patients of them are treated at region — 10, in Naryn region — in gender-based violence in Po- in Poland in the context of the ber of the European Union is the pecially in the realms of econom- ment where plural, diverse and in- home, in hospitals —1,498, in- 3. In total, 89,921 people have re- land comes as the country is deep country’s vulnerability to atroci- most prosperous economy in ic cooperation, regional com- dependent media can perform cluding 73 people are in an ex- covered in the republic since into a democratic backslide. The ty crimes. “Atrocity crimes” is South – East Europe and is a merce, tourism industry and sus- their role and contribute to mak- tremely serious condition, 375 — March 2020. The Ministry of government of Poland is con- generally understood to encom- great example of thriving market tainable development. Albania ing our democracies more robust.” in a serious condition. The condi- Health of Kyrgyzstan has com- trolled by the ruling Law and Jus- pass genocide, crimes against hu- economy were food processing as a nation with a fragile econo- The Secretary General also ex- tion of the main part of the pa- bined statistics after the WHO tice Party which has eroded me- manity and war crimes. As she ex- industry and enterprises are my, struck by the infructuous pressed concern at the findings of tients — 1,048 people (69.9 per- assigned the code U07.1 to the lab- dia freedom and eviscerated the plains, there is research suggest- dominating new international historical consequences – with the annual report of the Council cent) is assessed as moderate, two oratory-confirmed coronavirus in independence of the judiciary, ing that the erosion of women’s markets and securing over 650 over 40 years of inherited brutal of Europe’s Platform for the Pro- people in satisfactory condition the international classification of among other anti-democratic rights precedes atrocity crimes. million Euros in net sales reve- totalitarian regime in Europe tection of Journalism and the Safe- are registered. At least 202 peo- diseases, and the code U07.2 — moves. The government is also And we discuss her reporting from nue per year. The example of (1945-1991) – has a unique op- ty of Journalists. The annual re- ple have recovered from COVID- to community-acquired pneumo- reactionary in its worldview, in- Poland at length in this conversa- effective public policies and dip- portunity to learn from the pre- port of the Platform for the Pro- 19 and community-acquired nia, and it is considered. cluding on issues related to gen- tion. lomatic engagements headed by vious experiences. tection of Journalism. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Saudi Arabia names new economy minister in raft of royal appointments

Faisal bin Fadel was previously the deputy economy minis- The United Nations on Thurs- day warned Myanmar that it is ter and held several positions in state oil company Aramco on the brink of economic disaster due to the double shock of the Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has Sloan School of Management and istry department in 1993. Filling military coup and COVID-19 appointed Faisal bin Fadel bin a bachelor’s degree from Penn- her previous role as assistant to pandemic. Citing a new UN De- Mohsen Al Ibrahim the new econ- sylvania State University. Fi- the Commerce Minister will be velopment Program (UNDP) re- omy and planning minister in one nance Minister Mohammad Al Bader bin Abdul Mohsen bin Ab- port, CNN reported that almost of several royal decrees issued late Jadaan was serving as acting econ- dullah bin Hadab, who was ap- half of Myanmar’s population on Monday night. Mr Al Ibrahim omy and planning minister after pointed to this position under could be forced into poverty by was the deputy minister of econ- Mohammed Al Tuwaijri was re- Monday’s royal decrees. Saudi the end of this year. As per the omy and planning prior to his lieved of his duties in 2020 to Arabia’s first man in space, Prince report, if the security and eco- appointment, according to the serve as an advisor to the royal Sultan bin Salman was also ap- nomic situation does not stabi- royal decree carried by the state court. The raft of appointments pointed a special advisor to the lize soon, up to 25 million peo- news agency. He held several se- included a royal decree naming king, with the rank of minister. The ple, 48 per cent of Myanmar’s nior positions at the Saudi Arabi- Iman bint Habas bin Sultan Al prince made history as the first population, could be living in an Oil Company (Aramco) and Mutairi the deputy minister of Arab and Muslim man to go to poverty by 2022. Rising food was an advisor at the Economy commerce – the first woman to space after working as a payload costs, significant losses of income and Planning Ministry as well as hold the role. With a PhD in bio- specialist aboard NASA’s TS-51- and wages, the crumbling of ba- on the Finance Committee Secre- chemistry from the UK's Bristol G Space Shuttle mission on June sic services such as banking and tariat at the Royal Court. The University, Ms Al Mutairi was 17, 1985. In 2018, the prince was health care, and an inadequate new economy minister holds a previously assistant to the com- appointed as chairman of the board social safety net is likely to push Master’s degree in business ad- merce minister in 2018 after start- of directors of the Saudi Space millions of already vulnerable ministration from the Massachu- ing her career as a teacher in the Agency, also serving at the rank of people below the poverty line of ing and exports, as well as small- itary crackdowns, reported folding as a result. The UN World setts Institute of Technology King Faisal University’s Chem- minister. Communications and In- USD 1.10 a day — with women er businesses, market sellers, hair- CNN. According to the study, Food Program last week warned formation Technology Minister and children among the hardest dressers and tailors — suffered. women and children will bear “hunger and desperation” are ris- Abdullah bin Amer Al Swaha will hit. Myanmar was hit with the By December last year, more the heaviest brunt. Myanmar al- ing in Myanmar and predicted that take over from Prince Sultan at the double shock of the coronavirus than 420,000 migrant workers ready has high child poverty up to 3.4 million people will be Saudi Space Agency. National Cy- pandemic and Myanmar’s mili- had returned home. Urban pov- rates and the combined crises suffering across the country in the Tunisia To bersecurity Authority governor tary coup. Lockdowns and con- erty is expected to triple as the are “putting an entire generation next six months. “Overall, Myan- Khaled bin Abdullah Al Sabti was tainment measures disrupted towns and cities have been hard- in peril”, the UN Children’s mar is on the brink of economic re-appointed chair of the board of supply chains, so businesses — est hit by COVID-19 and remain Fund (UNICEF) said. More- collapse and risks becoming Asia’s Seek $4bn directors of the Education. especially in retail, manufactur- the focus of the most severe mil- over, a humanitarian crisis is un- next failed state.” Loan From I MF Pakistan’s exports to US increase Philippines’ Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan vestment in the most important workplaces a programme from the Internation- publicly owned companies. al Monetary Fund in talks start- The IMF has previously by 14.81pc to $3563m in 3 quarters virus hotbed ing next week, Prime Minister said Tunisia should target urgent Hichem Mechichi has said. He reforms of state-owned enter- said politicians faced a “last op- prises, subsidies and the large US $ 402.167 million in Febru- as economy portunity” to save the economy. public sector wage bill. Tunisia, ary 2021, SBP data said. Over- Mechichi said he expected talks which adopted democracy after all Pakistan’s exports to other rushes to to last about two months and had its 2011 revolution, had suffered countries witnessed increase of “confidence” Tunisia could secure years of economic stagnation, 2.29 percent in three quarters, financial support to help it declining public services and from US $ 18.280 billion to US reopen through an economic crisis that worse living standards even be- $ 18.699 billion. On the other has been aggravated by the COV- fore the pandemic, causing wide- hand, the imports from USA The spread of COVID-19 in work- ID-19 pandemic. “All efforts spread anger and frustration. into the country during the pe- places has become the most diffi- must be unified in Tunisia because Protests took place across the riod under review were record- cult to handle. The infected work- we consider that we have reached country in January. The tourism ed as US $ 1774.043 million ers bring home the virus to differ- the last opportunity and we must sector, responsible for about a against US $ 1684.482 million ent communities, making contact use it to save the economy,” he tenth of Tunisia’s economy, has last year, showing growth of tracing difficult. Mandy* made it said in an interview. He said he been shattered by the pandemic 5.31 percent in seven months clear to her employers: she could wanted a three-year loan pro- and with a slow vaccine roll-out, of this year. Meanwhile, year- only work from home. She lived gramme and added that details of the government recently intro- to-year basis, imports from with her husband and their two- an agreement with powerful la- duced new restrictions on inter- USA during March 2021 also year-old. Mandy had a heart con- bour unions, seen as vital to un- national travel. But Mechichi increased by 31.20 percent from dition, her daughter had bronchi- lock foreign funding, were still said this summer’s tourist sea- US $213.792 million last year tis, while her husband worked as being finalised. The finance min- son was not already lost, and to US $280.511 million. On a delivery man for Grab. They ister and central bank governor that the government would de- month-on-month basis, the im- shared a room for rent in Manila, will visit the United States next velop protocols to ensure visi- port from USA rose by 6.66 making it impossible to isolate if week to start the negotiations, tors’ safety. He said Tunisia had Pakistan’s exports of goods and US $ 3563.734 million during USA during March 2021 also in- percent during March 2021 at least one of them turned out Mechichi said, and he will also go not yet looked into vaccine pass- services to United State of Ameri- July-March (2020-21) against creased by 41.40 percent, from when compared to the import positive for the novel coronavi- there when a deal is in place. ports, but might consider them. ca (USA) witnessed a surge of exports of US $ 3103.817 mil- US $ 342.563 million against the of US $262.986 million in Feb- rus. Mandy was a call center He said Tunisia would ratio- Mechichi has previously re- 14.81 percent during the first three lion during July- March (2019- exports of US $484.407 million. ruary 2021, SBP data said. The agent. She knew she worked well. nalise rather than cut subsidies jected another lockdown after quarters of financial year (2020- 20), showing growth of 14.81 However, month-on-month ba- overall imports into the coun- From the lockdown in March 2020 and said it was considering sales the one imposed last spring, say- 21) as compared to the correspond- percent, State Bank of Pakistan sis, exports of USA were rose by try increased by 9.43 percent, up to the renewed lockdown in of minority stock it holds in some ing Tunisia cannot afford it. His ing period last year. The overall (SBP) data revealed. Meanwhile, 20.44 percent during March 2021 from US $34.136 billion. April 2021, she has managed to businesses to raise funds for in- announcement this month. exports to USA were recorded as on year-to-year basis, exports to in comparison with exports of (BBC) stay afloat in the industry where companies have been pulling out left and right, leaving thousands of agents jobless. Mandy has worked for four clients, working I ndia’s exports jump to $30.21 from home in all transfers except UAEaimstodoublesizeof economy the last one, located in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City. She billion in April, trade deficit started in December 2020 and toDh3tnby2031,minister says trained in January 2021. She said the recruits – her included – were 3.6 per cent, according to estimates widens to $15.24 billion led to believe that only the train- from the Central Bank of the UAE. ing would be onsite, until they The economy is forecast to expand New Delhi: India’s exports in in April 2021 were USD 30.21 corresponding month last year. were told to report for work when 3.5 per cent in 2022 and non-oil April jumped nearly three-folds billion, an increase of 197.03 per Major export commodities their regular shifts began. In pro- growth will rise to 3.9 per cent. In to USD 30.21 billion on account cent over USD 10.17 billion in which have recorded positive test, Mandy used up all her leave 2020, the UAE’s gross domestic of healthy growth in key sectors April 2020 and an increase of growth in April include gems credits, effectively going on a product stood at almost Dh1.42tn including engineering, gems and 16.03 per cent over USD 26.04 and jewellery, jute, pharmaceu- break on her first month in March at constant prices, with non-oil jewellery, and petroleum prod- billion in April 2019,” the minis- ticals, carpet, handicrafts, leath- 2021. She took care of her daugh- GDP making up just over Dh1tn ucts, even as trade deficit wid- try said in a statement. In per- er, electronic goods, oil meals, ter. While at home, messages of this. The country was "not im- ened to USD 15.24 billion, ac- centage terms, the growth rate in cashew, engineering, petroleum poured into her inbox. One by one, mune" to the global economic cording to commerce ministry’s exports and imports are at record products, marine products and her colleagues reported testing shock experienced after Covid-19, preliminary data released on Sun- high, mainly due to base-effect. chemicals. Exports of engineer- positive for COVID-19. Still, the given that its economy "is linked day. The country’s merchandise Due to the COVID-19 pan- ing, gems and jewellery, and pe- company only locked down parts through foreign trade, foreign in- exports were to the tune of USD demic induced lockdown last troleum products rose multifold of its office. A positive case in the vestment, tourism and the logisti- 10.17 billion in April 2020. Trade year, exports shrank by a record to USD 5.55 billion, USD 3.3 first floor meant that only the first cal sector with the movement of deficit in that month was USD 60.28 per cent in April 2020. In billion, and USD 2.12 billion, re- floor was shut down. The rest had trade and investment and global 6.92 billion. Imports too rose by March this year, exports grew by spectively in April. Gold im- to continue. When Mandy had to transportation", the minister said. over three-folds to USD 45.45 60.29 per cent to USD 34.45 bil- ports surged to USD 6.12 bil- finally go earn money, she had to The UAE aims to double the size to reach Dh3 trillion by 2031", Preliminary results from the billion last month as against USD lion. In April 2021, oil imports lion during the month under re- report to their office. She returned of its economy over the coming Mr Bin Touq said. The country UAE's Federal Statistics and Com- 17.09 billion in April 2020. stood at USD 10.8 billion as com- view as against USD 2.83 mil- on March 19. By the second week decade, economy minister Abdulla is pressing forward to speed up petitiveness Centre showed the “India’s merchandise exports pared to USD 4.65 billion in the lion in April 2020. of April, she started coughing. Bin Touq said on Saturday. its economic recovery by em- country's economy shrank 6.1 per The Ministry of Economy bracing technology linked to the cent last year and non-oil GDP and other government entities are Fourth Industrial Revolution, he contracted 6.2 per cent, which the "working according to an ambi- added. The UAE's economy is ministry described as a "compara- tious vision to double our nation- set to grow by 2.5 per cent this tively low decline" given the slump Turkish inflation Colombia’s president al economy over the next 10 years year, and its non-oil economy by in other major global economies. climbs to 17.1pc, withdrawing tax reforms China Business Summit highlights producer price after mass protests China-New Zealand relations, cooperation increases at crisis high relations and her government's New Zealand and China are going China policy by reiterating the to take different perspectives on Turkey’s headline inflation rate dovish economics professor. The importance of the bilateral rela- some important issues. We will rose to 17.1 percent in April inflation rate was expected to rise tions. "New Zealand's relation- continue to work through these in while the pace of producer price to 17.3 percent, according to ship with China is one of our a consistent manner, as we have increases accelerated to 35.2 per- polls of economists conducted most significant. Our Compre- always done," said Ardern. As the cent, the highest level since a cur- by Bloomberg and the state-run hensive Strategic Partnership host of APEC in 2021, Ardern be- rency crisis in 2018. Anadolu news agency. The April continues to provide a strong lieved that New Zealand has a Consumer price inflation in increase was led by transporta- foundation for the relationship. unique opportunity as the chair, Turkey, which exceeds price ris- tion costs, and the price of furni- Colombian President Ivan Du- Colombia’s finances, maintaining And we remain committed to our to play a role in shaping the future es in all major emerging market ture and household equipment, que has said he is withdrawing a its credit rating and funding social 'one-China' policy," said Ardern. of the Asia-Pacific. "We look for- economies except crisis-hit Ar- which surged by an annual 29.3 contentious tax reform propos- programmes, has drawn wide- "Trade in goods between our ward to working closely with Chi- gentina, climbed from 16.2 per- percent and 26.3 percent, respec- al after thousands of protesters spread public anger and protests. two countries has remained re- na and our other APEC partners to cent in March, according to offi- tively, the data showed. Core in- took to the streets across the The plan included new or expand- silient despite the challenges of realise our aspiration for an open, cial data published on Monday. flation, which cuts out the price South American nation for sev- ed taxes on citizens and business COVID-19, with overall exports dynamic, resilient and peaceful Turkey’s inflation is acceler- of volatile items such as food, eral days to denounce the mea- owners, as well as the levelling of remained strong. Two-way trade Asia-Pacific community by 2040, ating after the lira slumped against gold and oil, accelerated to 17.8 sures. In a video on Sunday, Du- sales tax on utilities and some flows are now well in excess of and I look forward to my discus- the dollar, driving up the cost of percent from 16.9 percent in que said he would ask Congress food. But many working-class 30 billion New Zealand dollars sions with President Xi in APEC imports. The currency has lost March. Producer price inflation “to withdraw the law proposed Colombians, already struggling un- The China Business Summit 2021 per year," said Ardern. Ardern later this year," said Ardern. Look- almost a third of its value since (PPI) in April hit the highest lev- by the finance ministry and ur- der a coronavirus-related econom- highlighted the importance of also mentioned seeking common ing ahead, Ardern said that next year the start of last year and has el since November 2018, when gently process a new law that is ic downturn, said the reforms China-New Zealand relations and grounds on some important is- will be the fiftieth anniversary of dropped 13 percent since mid- the lira had sold off sharply due the fruit of consensus, in order would hit them too hard. “We’re cooperation on Monday. New sues in the bilateral relations. diplomatic relations between New March, when President Recep to a political spat with the Unit- to avoid financial uncertainty”. here to say ‘no’ to the tax re- Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda "Given our two countries' Zealand and China. "Relations be- Tayyip Erdogan sacked the coun- ed States over the detention of a The proposed reforms, which forms,” Sol Martinez, a teacher, Ardern delivered her keynote different histories, world views tween the peoples of our two country’s hawkish central bank gov- U.S. pastor on terrorism charges the right-wing government had told Al Jazeera during a protest in speech on New Zealand-China and political and legal systems, tries stretch back much further. ernor and replaced him with a and the government. insisted were vital to stabilising the capital, Bogota. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

La Brea, the new NBC series from new trailer for Zack writer David Applebaum, is Snyder's Army of the bringing production to Australia, Dead previews the terrify- Universal Studio Group announced today. The Universal ing alpha zombies that are smart- Group said the upcoming drama er, faster, and much deadlier. series is moving to Down Under for principal photography, visu- A new trailer for Zack Snyder's al effects and post-production. Army of the Dead shows off the The overseas cross is part of a terrifying alpha zombies that will larger effort by the USG to in- be after the group of casino rob- vest in high-end scripted series in bers in the upcoming Netflix film. the country. USG chairman Pearl- The director's first non-DCEU ena Igbokwe said after having a film since 2011's Sucker Punch positive experience with produc- will be a return to the his roots tion last fall for Young Rock in in the zombie genre. Snyder's Queensland, the Group is excited debut film, Dawn of the Dead, to bring more production to Aus- was a George A. Romero remake tralia. “Being able to tap into the that many praised as an evolu- creative infrastructure in Austra- tion of the genre and the director lia has been incredible and we are is looking to do the same with proud to invest back into our glo- this upcoming film. Part heist Army of the Dead trailer from As Snyder himself says in his bal production community. Now, film, part action thriller, and part Netflix shows off these smart own tweet sharing the trailer, we are delighted to continue our horror show, Army of the Dead zombies and they are terrifying. these zombies are "straight out of alliance with the Australian gov- will take the zombie genre to a Interspersed with glimpses at the your nightmares." The zombie ernment and Hon Paul Fletcher new level. In Army of the Dead, expansive cast, the main attrac- genre has become a staple of pop- MP for our latest series ‘La Brea’ a group of ragtag mercenaries will tion of the new clip are the zom- ular culture over the last decade in Victoria and look forward to head into the Nevada desert for bies that are sure to take some of thanks to the soaring success of broadening our partnership,” Ig- a large cash prize underneath the these mercenaries out. The zom- The Walking Dead, but what was bokwe said. In addition to Young alongside a disparate group of McKenzie, who are joined by (“NCIS: New Orleans”) produc- Las Vegas strip. What they don't bie queen gets up close and per- once a hugely popular phenome- Rock and La Brea, UCP’s Joe strangers. They must work to sur- Australian actors Rohan Mir- es with Avi Nir, Alon Shtruzman, expect is a new type of zombie, sonal with one of the mercenar- non has waned in recent years. Exotic is set to film in the next vive and uncover the mystery of chandaney and Chloe De Los Peter Traugott, Rachel Kaplan, one that is smarter and faster. ies, while the others are chased Army of the Dead will have to phase. In La Brea, a massive sink- where they are and if there is a Santos. Steven Lilien, Bryan Wynbrandt They'll also face off against zom- down, hunted, and forced to fight prove that it can bring something hole mysteriously opens up in way back home. The cast include Thor Freudenthal is direct- and Ken Woodruff. Adam David- bie animals, including a tiger, off some blood-thirsty attacks. new to the table. Los Angeles, tearing a family Ione Skye, Natalie Zea, Eoin ing the pilot and several more ep- son serves as an executive produc- birds, and horses. All of these apart by separating mother and Macken, Jon Seda, Jack Martin, isodes. He is represented by Ger- er. Universal Television, a division zombies herald from Area-51, son from father and daughter. Part Lily Santiago, Veronica St. Clair, sh, The Gotham Group, and at- of Universal Studio Group, is the teasing their otherworldly origins of the family finds itself in an Zyra Gorecki, Chiké Okonkwo, torney Rob Szymanski. studio, producing with Keshet and the expansive nature of the Nicholas Gonzalez and Josh Writer David Appelbaum Studios. potential franchise. Now, a new 'Distance' and unexplainable primeval world, 'Astronaut' - Badshah's China Box Office: Youth When Manoj Bajpayee and Irrfan double surprise is a Romance 'My Love' Beats Khan competed for the same role in perfect treat for his fans! Zhang Yimou's 'Cliff Walkers' Ram Gopal Varma's Daud for 35,000 During Holiday Weekend A slew of Chinese titles released to capital- ize on the May Day holiday, but a poorly reviewed romantic drama beat them all.

Did you know Manoj Bajpayee and Irrfan Khan met Ram Gopal Varma for a role in Daud? Both the stars were in the running for the role of Paresh Rawal's sidekick, which would pay them 35,000.

Actor Manoj Bajpayee has de- Sanjay Dutt and Urmila Matond- hand man role. But if he is im- livered several memorable perfor- kar in the lead. The actor had re- pressed with you, he could give Badshah is back with his swag tance" and "Astronaut" has a pro- mances in his career. These in- called that the role was worth you a bigger role in his next mov- and this time it's a wonderment found significance. It will un- clude Bandit Queen, Satya, Pin- ?35,000. "We were being consid- ie.' I asked how much money will for his fans. Badshah, an Indian doubtedly reach you as you lis- jar and Bhonsle. But did you ered for Paresh Rawal's right-hand I make, he said, 35,000 for that rapper and singer, has surpris- ten to this music. Let's listen to know that there was a time when role in the movie Daud. Kannan role," Manoj said in Hindi, talk- ingly released two rap tracks, ti- these swaggy rap songs here- Zhang Yimou's spy thriller Cliff model Greg Hsu (aka Greg Han) Manoj and late actor Irrfan Khan Iyer, who made Ek Thi Daayan, ing to YouTube channel Lallan- tled "Distance" and "Astronaut" Apart from this, he recently Walkers was the best reviewed and actress Zhang Ruonan. were in competition for a sup- was assisting Shekhar Kapur in top. Kangana Ranaut has spo- at midnight. These two tracks by collaborated with Uchana Amit on new release to open over China's Despite its strong commercial porting role in Daud? Back in Bandit Queen. He was writing ken about new oxygen plants Badshah are full of his inner feel- the song "Fly," which features lucrative May Day holiday week- start, My Love has been torched 2018, Manoj revealed that he, Daud movie for Ram Gopal Ver- getting built in India to meet the ings for his haters. It seems that Shehnaaz Gill. He also unveiled end, but it was far from the big- by critics and earned tepid ratings Irrfan and actor Vineet Kumar ma. Kannan told me 'Irrfan and medical demand amid the Cov- someone genuinely despises him, his most significant collaboration gest earner. Youth romance My from users of ticketing apps. The auditioned for the role of Paresh Vineet have been asked to come, I id-19 pandemic. Kangana tweets and he created these tracks after with Aastha Gill and Jacqueline Love, from Beijing Enlight Pic- film has an average review score Rawal's sidekick in Ram Gopal am calling you as well, come. Ram about taking oxygen 'forcefully' hearing someone's comments. Fernandez, just a few days ago. tures, overcame withering reviews of 5.3/10 on movie buff site Varma's Daud. The movie starred Gopal Verma is giving the right- from environment. Every line in the tracks, "Dis- (Santa Banta) to dominate the start of the long Douban, and 8.1 and 8 from tick- holiday frame, earning $65.1 mil- eting giants Maoyan and Taopi- lion from Friday to Sunday. Cliff aopiao. Cliff Walkers' ratings, Walkers landed second with $38.8 meanwhile, are the highest of any Iran: “White Winged Horse” named Vin Diesel Says Fast & million, according to data from title currently on release — 7.7 on regional box-office tracker Arti- Douban and 9.1 on both Maoyan most innovative short at Canadian festival san Gateway. China's May Day and Taopiaopiao. Furious 9 Will Reveal Dom national holiday continues until The film is Zhang's first at- TEHRAN – Iranian director May 5. My Love is a remake of tempt at the spy genre, taking Mahyar Mandegar’s movie Toretto's Origin Story the hit South Korean romantic place in the snowy, shadowy “White Winged Horse” has won drama On Your Wedding Day world of 1930s Manchukuo, the the Senior Youth Jury Award for Vin Diesel says Fast & (2018). The films tell the story puppet state set up in northern Most Innovative Short Film at Furious 9 will dive into of unrequited between two former China by pre-World War II impe- the 23rd Reel to Reel Festival in Dom Toretto's origin sto- high school classmates, tracking rial Japan. Starring Zhang Yi (Op- Vancouver, Canada. The film, ry, revisiting important their romance over a 15-year pe- eration Red Sea), Yu Hewei (I Am which received the award in the events that occurred be- riod until the female character mar- Not Madame Bovary), Qin Hailu 13 to 18-year-old category, is fore the original 2001 film. ries another man. The Chinese (The Pluto Moment) and Zhu Ya- about a man who has returned to version stars Taiwanese actor and wen (The Captain). his hometown in a war-torn region in search of his childhood love, who, 20 years earlier, had Pawan Kalyan fans attack asked him to become a winged white horse. The festival focus- Anupama Parameswaran after she es on youth film productions and is held annually in Vancouver, praises Vakeel Saab, she apologises however, the awards ceremony for its 23rd edition was held on- Vin Diesel said Fast & Furious 9 lion box-office mark. That im- line this year due to the COVID- will dive into his character Dom mense financial success has only 19 pandemic. The jury described Toretto's origin story. The up- raised the bar for F9, which prom- “White Winged Horse” as “ex- coming ninth entry in the block- ises to be the most rearview-mir- ceptionally made” and added, Mandegar said “Your comments Torfinn Iversen from Norway re- buster racing franchise will see ror gazing entry yet as Jakob en- “The film is very emotional and were all so heartwarming.” “It’s a ceived the Junior Youth Jury Toretto and his family of inter- ters the frame to reveal skeletons it’s a wonderful way to charac- great honor and I am really happy Award for the Most Inspiration- national criminals reunite to take from Dom's past. Diesel already terize isolation.” In a video mes- to hear this news,” he added. al Short Film, while “Something on Dom's estranged younger confirmed that his son Vincent sage addressing the organizers, “Kicksled Choir” directed by to Remember” directed. brother Jakob (John Cena), a Sinclair will appear as a younger highly-skilled assassin working version of Dom in the upcoming with Fast & Furious 8 villain film, indicating there may be some Donald Glover Reveals He's Working on a Trilogy of Movies Cypher (Charlize Theron). Orig- flashbacks detailing exactly how inally scheduled for release in Dom and Jakob's relationship fell Donald Glover has more projects ten started as a writer for 30 Rock, April 2019, Fast & Furious 9 apart. The actor now appears to Actor Anupama Parameswaran barriers and makes the story stand on the way as he is currently Glover rose to fame playing Troy was delayed over a year due to be doubling down on the nostal- on Saturday dropped a post out with the 3 leading ladies working on writing a movie trilo- Barnes on the cult NBC sitcom the pandemic, with its current gia factor and says true longtime praising Pawan Kalyan’s Vakeel #nivetha #ananya #anjali,” she gy. The actor and rapper is cur- Community for five seasons be- U.S. release slated for June 25. fans of the franchise will be par- Saab. “Watched #vakeelsaa- tweeted. But as soon as she rently in the midst of filming the fore creating his Emmy Award- The franchise has become famous ticularly rewarded this time bonprime last night on @primeV- dropped the post, Pawan Kalyan third and fourth seasons of his winning series Atlanta, which also for upping the action, a move around. In an extended interview ideoIN. Must say, powerful per- fans started trolling the actor for hit FX surreal dramedy Atlanta, stars Brian Tyree Henry, Lakeith that's clearly paid off with Furi- with EW, Diesel said Fast & Fu- formances backed by a strong not calling Pawan Kalyan ‘sir’. in which he produces, stars, Stanfield, and Zazie Beetz. Glov- ous 7 and The Fate of the Furi- rious 9 will deeply explore Dom message! @PawanKalyan breaks (Hindustan Times) writes, and directs. Having got- er is also a Grammy. ous handily clearing the $1 bil- Toretto's origin story. TUESDAY . MAY 04, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Valspar Championship: Ross Taylor RoyKeane:Manchester Unitedmust Sam Burns holds off hands New target HarryKaneandJackGrealishto Keegan Zealand injury Bradley to mount Premier Leaguetitlechallenge secure maiden oy Keane has called on Manchester United to spend "whatever it takes" to sign Harry scare on first Kane while Sky Sports pundit claims Jack Grealish is the "special player" needed to PGATour help turn his former club into Premier League champions victory day of training camp ahead of England Test series Sam Burns secured a long-awaited maiden PGA Tour title after Ross Taylor sustained calf injury on first day of coming through a final-round tus- New Zealand's training camp; the Black Caps play sle with Keegan Bradley to win the Valspar Championship. two Tests in England next month, as well as the Burns, who had failed to convert final of the World Test Championship against India his previous two 54-hole leads on the PGA Tour this season, mixed six birdies with three bogeys on his way to a final-round 68 at In- nisbrook Resort's Copperhead Course. The world No 94 ended the week on 17 under and three clear of playing partner Keegan Bradley, who had been locked at the top of the leaderboard for most of the weekend, with Viktor Hov- Roy Keane says Manchester the gap on their title rivals. "I still "The fans would love him. ing very well, but Jack's got to be land four back in tied-third along- United should target Harry Kane feel they are two or three play- What I admire about Jack is he's selfish. Paul Merson believes Har- side Cameron Tringale. "This is and Jack Grealish this summer if ers away from challenging Man got great courage on the football ry Kane will find it difficult to get really a dream come true," Burns they are to mount a Premier City," Keane told Sky Sports. pitch. He always wants the ball a move away from Tottenham in said. "Those moments in the past League title challenge next season. "They're short. They still need a in tight areas. We've seen over the summer due to the transfer fee test you and you really learn a lot Manchester City require two world-class striker, they need the last year or two his end that would be demanded. "He's got from them, so I think this week, more points to be confirmed as another midfielder and also pos- product has improved. He's an to look to step up to the next lev- coming down the stretch, we just champions, with Pep Guardiola's sibly a centre-half. But I'd prior- excellent player and obviously el." Keane believes Bruno tried and stick to our process." side 13 points ahead of their itise a striker and a midfielder. Kane would guarantee goals. Fernandes, Paul Pogba and Greal- Burns matched Bradley's neighbours having played an ad- "The two players who I've "Would it be difficult to get ish could all play in the same team, birdie at the par-five first and ditional fixture following Sun- thought about over the last few these two players? You bet your but added: "If there's a problem rolled in a five-footer at the next day's postponement of United's weeks who I feel would be bril- life it would be, but Man Utd over having one or two too many, to grab the solo lead, only for Bra- match against Liverpool at Old liant for Man Utd are Harry Kane have to go out and try to sign then they can move Pogba on. dley to bounce back from a bogey Trafford. Keane was asked what up front - whatever it costs - and the best otherwise we'll be hav- Why not? If Grealish comes in, at the third to post successive Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side need I'd go with Jack Grealish. I feel ing the same conversations next get rid of one or two of them. gains from the fifth. The pair were in order to compete with City United are still short of that spe- year about being nearly there. "They're a little worried about back tied for the lead when Burns next season, and the former Unit- cial player. I think Grealish would Jack would be ready for Man Pogba's contract with him moving cancelled out a 25-foot birdie at ed midfielder believes Kane and give them that and I feel he would Utd. He's done well for Aston into his last year, but if they're the seventh with a bogey at the New Zealand have suffered a one-day internationals against Grealish would significantly close enjoy playing at Old Trafford. Villa, a brilliant club who are do- going to cash in on him. par-three eighth, before Bradley scare ahead of next month's Test Bangladesh in March with a ham- rolled in a 15-footer from the series against England after Ross string injury, has gone 14 innings fringe at the ninth to reach the turn Taylor picked up a calf injury. without a hundred. However, one ahead. Burns pulled level The 37-year-old batsman sus- Stead said: "Ross has a great Test Tyson Fury 'frust rat ed' by delay Shane Lowry with a 15-foot birdie at the 11th tained the injury in the nets dur- record behind him and we want and jumped two ahead when Bra- ing the first day of New Zealand's Ross Taylor playing in our Test pledges financial dley found water off the 13th tee training camp, and left the field team." New Zealand could already t o A nt hony Joshua fight , says on his way to a costly double- to undergo a scan. Head coach be without Kane Williamson, Trent backing to bogey, with the 24-year-old then Gary Stead said: "The reports Boult, Kyle Jamieson and Mitch- A ndy Lee - 'He's been held up Offaly GAA firing a wedge to tap-in range at I've had so far is it's more pre- ell Santner for at least one of the the par-five 14th to go three clear cautionary than anything, but Tests against England due to their and offers with four to play. Bradley failed we'll see how he scrubs up. "You involvement in the Indian Premier by it . He does like t o be act ive' to get up and down from the sand are always worried when any League (IPL). The IPL final will expertise in player to save par at the 15th, where injuries happen but someone of take place on May 30 and anyone Burns also made bogey after a Ross's standing and calibre as a arriving in the UK from India is development poor chip from off the green but Test player, you always have a required to isolate for 10 days. The then nailed a 20-foot birdie at the little bit of a concern. "Fingers first Test between England and par-four next. Both players made crossed everything is good and New Zealand is slated for June 2, two-putt pars at the par-three we still have time on our side, with the second starting eight days 17th to leave Burns with a four- but we'll just have to wait and later. New Zealand have named an shot cushion heading to the last, see what the medical team say." enlarged 20-man squad - including where a bogey was enough to reg- New Zealand have two the uncapped pair of Devon Con- ister his first PGA Tour victory. three-day camps scheduled be- way and Rachin Ravindra - for the Hovland birdied four of his fore leaving for England, where trip to England, which will be first five holes on his way to a they will play a two-Test series, trimmed to 15 for the final against round-of-the-day 65 and a share plus the final of the inaugural India. All squad members have had of third place, with Tringale along- World Test Championship their first Covid vaccine, and will side him on 13 under after a 15- against India in Southampton. receive their second before arriv- foot birdie at the last closed. Taylor, who missed the first two ing in England.

Offaly GAA have announced that golf star Shane Lowry will finan- Estoril Open: cially support Gaelic games in the Faithful County in the coming Cameron Tyson Fury may find the delay Tyson Fury mocks Anthony "It's inevitable that it will hap- years. The 34-year-old will make to his fight with Anthony Joshua Joshua and claims that'll he quit pen. "But all this sitting around annual contributions to the coun- “to his detriment or his benefit”, on his stool if Joshua lasts more and waiting? Tyson could have ty board over the next five years, Norrie Andy Lee has questioned. Fury than three rounds. "He is frus- fought in February or March. and also offer his expertise for has been training in Las Vegas trated," Lee told Sky Sports He's been held up by it. He does player development. alongside trainer Sugarhill Stew- about Fury. "The end-date was like to be active. "I don't know The Clara native hails from a defeated ard with Lee, another crucial cog February, then it was March, if it's to his detriment or his ben- strong GAA background. His fa- to his corner, overseeing Joseph now we're still going on. "He's efit that this wait has happened. ther Brendan, and uncles Mick and byAlbert Parker's win against Derek Chiso- very frustrated that the biggest, "He will be ready to unleash Seán, helped Offaly to the 1982 ra. WBC champion Fury and IBF, most powerful people in boxing the fury when this fight is on!" All-Ireland title, beating Kerry in WBA and WBO titleholder (promoters Bob Arum, Eddie Fury hasn't fought since his the decider. "Offaly GAA are de- Ramos-Vinolas Joshua's teams are reviewing the Hearn and all the networks) but destruction of Deontay Wilder lighted to announce that Shane paperwork to agree an undisput- they can't seem to get the deal in February 2019. Hearn said on Lowry, the reigning Open cham- in final ed heavyweight ruler, and pro- done for whatever reason." Asked Saturday night: "We're all sys- pion, has pledged his support as a moter Eddie Hearn hopes to make if he was worrying that the fight tems go. This fight is on, this partner," read a statement on The British player was bidding to win his first ATP single a formal announcement this week. would fail to materialise, Lee said: fight is happening. Thursday afternoon. "Offaly title and lost after a gruelling two-hour and 44-minute GAA are in the process of pre- encounter; elsewhere, Nikoloz Basilashvili won his paring a strategic plan which will second title of the season at the BMW Open in Munich have a significant focus on player development. As an elite interna- Giannis Antetokounm po tional sportsman, Shane has of- Britain's Cameron Norrie suffered self up against a clay-court spe- the next game and was made to pay fered his experience and expertise a heart-breaking defeat by sev- cialist in Ramos-Vinolas, who as his opponent levelled the match. scores 4 9 in Milw aukee Bucks to inspire and help improve the enth seed Albert Ramos-Vinolas had won two previous titles on It was Norrie's turn to call the development of our players. in the final of the Estoril Open. the surface. The Spaniard re- trainer, down a break after three "Shane will also support our Norrie was bidding to win his sponded well to an early Norrie games of the decider, and after tak- w in over Brooklyn Nets; LA commercial and fundraising initia- first ATP title and continue a bril- break of serve and piled the pres- ing painkillers for a left foot issue, tives to help fund improvements liant season by claiming silver- sure on the British No two. he immediately got back on level Clippers reach playoffs in our underage coaching pro- ware, but he was edged out 4-6 6- But, as he has done so im- terms. Both men looked to be feel- grammes and develop educational 3 7-6 (7-3) by Spaniard Ramos- pressively all season, Norrie ing the physical effects of a gruel- A round-up of Sunday night's bursaries for our young players. Vinolas after two hours and 44 stayed calm, weathered the storm ling battle, but it was Ramos-Vi- The people of Offaly are immense- minutes. The 25-year-old, whose and seized his moment to claim nolas who emerged victorious, NBA action, as Giannis Antetok- ounmpo scored 49 points in the ly proud of everything that Shane previous final came in his home the opening set. Ramos-Vinolas coming from 3-1 down to claim the has achieved. He comes from a city of Auckland in 2019, had bat- took an injury time-out for an tie-break. Meanwhile, Nikoloz Milwaukee Bucks' win over Brooklyn Nets, while the Toron- family steeped in the history of tled past second seed Cristian apparent groin problem, after Basilashvili won his second title Offaly GAA and he is himself a Garin and former US Open cham- dropping serve to go 2-1 down of the season at the BMW Open to Raptors' victory over the LA Lakers seals a playoff berth for devoted supporter of Clara GAA pion Marin Cilic in his previous in the second set, but Norrie was in Munich without dropping a set. and Offaly GAA. "In support of two matches. He now found him- unable to convert a 40-0 lead in (Sky Sport) the LA Clippers. Giannis An- tetokounmpo scored a season- our fundraising drive to put Offa- high 49 points and out-duelled ly GAA on a more sustainable fi- Kevin Durant as the host Mil- nancial footing, Shane has also Vitality Netball Superleague: Manchester waukee Bucks edged the Brook- pledged a personal annual finan- lyn Nets, 117-114.Antetokoun- cial contribution to Offaly GAA Thunder and Team Bath win ahead of showdown mpo, who missed Friday's game over the next five years." "On behalf of Offaly GAA, I Manchester Thunder and Team each other on Monday night, be- against the Chicago Bulls with an ankle injury, delivered the dunk wish to sincerely thank Shane for Bath Netball will both go into fore Rhinos, who also shone on coming on board," said Offaly their showdown on Monday off Sunday, return to court to take on that put the Bucks ahead for good with 7:57 left. Khris Middleton chairman Michael Duignan. "We the back of impressive Vitality Wasps. Manchester Thunder over- are all excited by the prospect of Netball Superleague victories. In came a strong test from London had 26 points and 11 rebounds (43-22) and within three games a season-high with 42 points but the second game of the day on Pulse to start their time at the Cop- as the Bucks (40-24) maintained of the East-leading Philadelphia missed a pair of potential game- working with Shane in the coming Sunday, Karen Greig's outfit per Box Arena on a winning note their hopes of finishing first in 76ers (43-21), who defeated San tying three-pointers in the final years as we strive to improve the overpowered London Pulse be- with a 50-42 win. In the face of the Eastern Conference for the Antonio 113-111 in overtime lat- 30 seconds, including a shot that fortunes of the county. Shane has fore Anna Stembridge's side kept strong pressure, Karen Greig's out- third straight season. Milwaukee er on Sunday. Jrue Holiday had glanced off the rim just before inspired us all in Offaly by the Wasps at bay. The two title con- fit remained composed and must closed within two-and-a-half 18 points and Bryn Forbes 12 the buzzer. way he has progressed to the up- tenders will now duel against now turn their attentions. games of the second-place Nets points for the Bucks. Durant tied (Sky Sport) per echelons of world golf. TUESDAY. MAY 04. 2021 - Saur 14, 1400 HS Vol:XV Issue No:232 Price: Afs.20

KABUL: US Special Represen- ZalamyKhalilzad briefed the pres- tative for Afghanistan reconcili- ident regarding his latest activities Lawmakers in the Wolesi Jirga, ation ZalmayKhalilzad on Mon- with regard to the Afghanistan the lower house of Parliament, day held meetings with Presi- peace process, the Presidential blamed the Taliban for the in- completed by Sept. 11. Accord- dent Ashraf Ghani and Chair- Palace said in a statement. crease in violence and said that ing to the Doha agreement, the man High Council for National Ghani stressed aligning the hundreds of civilians and securi- US was expected to complete the Reconciliation (HCNR) Abdul- ongoing peace process on the ba- ty force members are killed in withdrawal by May 1. The Tal- lah Abdullah and briefed them sis of new facts emerged after clashes every day as US troops iban considers the postponement about recent development in the opening of a new chapter of rela- are leaving. The lawmakers ex- of the withdrawal date a viola- Afghan peace process. tionship between the US and Af- pected heads of security agencies tion of the Doha agreement. In a meeting with President ghanistan in the aftermath of for- to appear on Monday session, “The US has set a deadline Ghani, US Chief Negotiator eign forces... but the officials had traveled to for itself and it is possible that Ghazni and the session was post- the Taliban will not agree to it poned for Wednesday. The US and then a deadline in the middle started the withdrawal of its will be agreed upon,” said former troops from Afghanistan on May Taliban commander Sayed Akbar 1st. On Sunday, US forces hand- Agha. US special envoy Zalmay ed over a... Khalilzad arrived in Kabul on Monday and, according to sources, he intends to discuss his regional trip and the upcoming Istanbul conference with Afghan KABUL: The press freedom and future for journalism in Af- officials, along with other topics situation is disastrous in Af- ghanistan. At least 20 journalists related to the peace process. ghanistan 14 months after the and media workers fell victims to Khalilzad met with Marshal Taliban and the United States targeted attacks in the past six Abdul Rashid Dostum in signed a peace accord on Febru- months and eight, including four Uzbekistan this week. He also ary 29, 2020 and eight months women, have been killed. Around met with Uzbekistan Foreign after the Taliban and Afghan 30 others received death threats KABUL: Afghan security forces Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov and government began peace talks, in connection with their journalis- have taken control of a key US discussed the Afghan peace pro- watchdogs said on Monday. tic work, the RSF and CPAWJ said military base in southern Hel- cess. “Discussions were held on On the occasion of World in a statement. The climate of ter- mand province, the army says. the peace process and the Istan- Press Freedom Day (3 May), ror keeps on growing and particu- Camp Antonik transitioned to mericans and the Tali sources familiar with the matter ter, the sources said. The US be- bul conference as well as politi- Reporters Without Borders larly affects women journalists, Afghan forces on Sunday, a day ban are discussing the said. The Taliban will return to gan its withdrawal of troops from cal consensus,” Dostum’s (RSF) and the Centre for the whose situation is already precar- after the US military formally possibility of ending the talks, will attend the Turkey Afghanistan this week, and, spokesman Ehsan Nairo said. Protection of Afghan Women ious. In its latest annual report, started pulling out its forces from the withdrawal pro- conference and will reduce violence based on President Joe Biden’s However, Second Vice Pres- Journalists (CPAWJ) sound the published in March, the CPAWJ Afghanistan. All foreign troops cess by the beginning of July, if there is an agreement on the mat- decision, the process was to be ident Sarwar... alarm about the plight of media said it had... were moving to the Bagram base in central Parwan province, officials said. From the biggest US base in Afghanistan, they will depart for their...

AT News

KABUL: At least 62 Taliban in- KABUL: A survey by the Na- surgents were killed and 58 oth- tional Statistics and Information ers wounded during crackdowns Authority (NSIA) and the UN AT News carried out by the Afghan securi- Office on Drugs and Crimes ty forces in several provinces in shows that poppy cultivation KABUL: Afghanistan recorded the past 24 hours. The ministry increased by 37 percent in Af- 275 new Covid-19 cases and six of defense said in a statement on ghanistan last year. A joint state- deaths within past 24 hours, Monday that the raids were con- ment from the mentioned sourc- health ministry said on Monday. ducted in Laghman, Ghazni, Zab- es received by Pajhwok Afghan The total tally since the outbreak ul, Balkh, Herat, Faryab, Farah News said that the two organi- of the epidemic hit the country and Badakhshan provinces. The zations launched a survey about reached to 60,563. The ministry security forces defused 12 rounds poppy cultivation and produc- said that the new cases were re- of mines planted by the Taliban tion in 2020. It said that 224,000 AT News losses in flash flood that hit sever- hectares of land was cultivated corded out of 1,911 suspected al parts of the provinces. A to target the civilians, the minis- samples tested in laboratories. try said, adding that some weap- with poppy in Afghanistan last KABUL: Residents in the north- spokesman of the state ministry year, which showed a 37 percent During the last 24 hours, 170 pa- ern provinces of Samangan and for natural disaster management, ons and ammunition of the mili- tients were... tants were... increase in the cultivation com- Daikundi suffered huge financial Ahmad Tamim ... pared to 2019.