Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XI Issue No:170 Price: Afs.20

www.afghanistantimes.af www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimeswww.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes TUESDAY . JANUARY 16. 2018 -Jadi 26, 1396 HS

AT News Report According to a statement both sides discussed over security in KABUL: The United Nations Afghanistan and region, fighting Security Council (UNSC) against terrorism, corruption, drug delegation during a visit to Kabul, and its smuggling, acceleration of expressed commitment in peace process, preparation for cooperation with the Afghan election, reform in governance, government in order to reach peace strengthening of system, sharing and stability. President of women and rule of UN in Mohammad Ashraf Ghani received Afghanistan. The delegation and United Nation Security Council Afghan officials also discussed (UNSC) delegation in presidential regional cooperation and pressure palace yesterday. The delegation over Pakistan in order to reach to was leading by Kairat Umarov, stability in Afghanistan. President Kazakhstan Ambassador to UNSC. Ghani said that we in regional In this visit the permanent relation and in economic field with representatives of UN and UNSC middle Asia countries, Russia, from USA, China, UK, Russia, China and Iran had great France, Sweden, Poland, achievements. Pointing to Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Ethiopia, Afghanistan and Pakistan relation, Kuwait, Holland and three others he said that efforts hold for better KABUL: Former president Hamid office quoted him as calling the and stability in the country and countries were present. relation by...P2 Karzai has said the US presence in Loya Jirga a platform for the not result in further destabilisation Afghanistan should be for ensuring Afghans express their thoughts and of the situation. peace and stability not for further decisions. He said the Loya Jirga Karzai said the European deteriorating the situation and could legitimize the US presence Union should independently fueling war. in Afghanistan. pursue its polices in Afghanistan Karzai in his address at the He said for eradication of and work on large scale for bringing European Institute for Security terrorism and durable peace and peace to Afghanistan thus Afghan Studies in Switzerl said the US stability, the US should gain the migrants could easily return to their should respect the Afghan values, trust of regional countries and work country. This cooperation, he said, AT News Report responsibilities based on our customs, laws, institutions such as together with them. would pull out Afghanistan from position.” However, currently, KABUL: The Chief Executive the Loya Jirga. He added the US presence in crisis and convert it into the area there is huge friction between A statement from Karzai Afghanistan should ensure peace of mutual cooperation. Officer (CEO), Abdullah Abdullah Jamiat-e-Islami political party, and on Monday reacted over recent Presidential Palace. Recently, remarks made by the ousted Balkh President Ashraf Ghani accepted governor, Atta Mohammad Noor, resignation of Noor as Balk AT News Report “Today I call on international saying “we have answers, our governor, and appointed donors to stand by 2.8 million silences doesn’t mean we don’t have Mohammad Dawood as his people whose lives have been words to say.” It should not be KABUL: Aid agencies in successor. But Noor warned that Afghanistan need US$430 million ruined by conflict or natural taken out of context that we don’t he would remain in post if disaster, and to help people have answers, Abdullah said in this year to help the most negotiations bear no result. AT News Report demonstrations, strikes and other laws. The soul of the decree vulnerable girls, women, boys and returning to Afghanistan from response to Noor’s recent Moreover, the Independent gatherings is rejected by most of opposes democracy,” said Fawzia neighbouring countries.” Armed remarks—a drive out governor, who men across the country. The Directorate of Local Governance KABUL: Members of parliament the votes,” Abdul Raouf Ibrahimi, Koofi, a member of parliament. She money will be used to assist 2.8 clashes in the past year were the blamed Abdullah as major player (IDLG) has said they would not reacted to President Ghani’s decree parliament speaker said. The decree added that the civil society, justice highest in a decade and civilian behind his resignation. In several million people displaced by approve salaries request by Noor’s over the gatherings, strikes and that was issued in September, said ministry and the human rights conflict or natural disasters with casualties remained near record occasions Noor accused Abdullah signature. In response, Noor demonstrations with conflicting that demonstrations were not commission rejected the decree. levels. More than two million even called him (Abdullah) a snake emergency shelter and food, to warned the IDLG, saying his responses. The opposition of the allowed in military installations, Another lawmaker, Homaira treat patients injured by conflict, people were directly affected by up everyone’s sleeve. But Abdullah signature is valid in all institutions. decree called it against the hospitals, schools, border points, Ayoubi who agrees with some the conflict last year, 448,000 of said he has answers. “If we are not to feed malnourished children or “If you put more pressure, I will constitution and democracy, while embassies and crowded areas. changes in the decree, said that a assist vulnerable families returning whom had to abandon their homes responding to every comments, it directly pay the salaries from others said that some parties and Government officials were also number of groups and parties to save their lives. More than should not be considered that we home after years in Iran or Pakistan, Hairatan port which generates groups misuse demonstrations to banned from attending misuse the decree to pretend their a statement from the UN Office 500,000 people arrived in are not having answers. It is because hundreds of millions of dollars,” justify their activities. “The demonstrations. “This decree is activities are legal. “We witnessed Afghanistan in 2017, many of them we want to focus on our major for the Coordination of Noor said. president’s decree over against the constitution and other dangerous and deadly...P2 Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) after seeking refuge in Iran, said on Monday. “In many parts Pakistan or other countries, the of Afghanistan, violence continues statement added. “The unabated and people need support international community has more than ever,” said Toby Lanzer, proven its continued commitment the United Nations Humanitarian to the people of Afghanistan with Coordinator in Afghanistan. generous humanitarian...P2

AT News Report

KABUL: The government-led high peace council claims that refugees in Pakhtunkhwa or to crossing point, warning, if not, the international community, representatives from government force them to leave for issue would be referred to the especially by US over its and Taliban group participated in Afghanistan, Spogmai Radio has United States and China to resolve supporting and harboring an unofficial meeting to talk about reported. Achakzai said Khyber it. Based on media reports, police militancy, Islamabad always the peace process, an allegation Pakhtunkhwa belongs to force has been actively engaged in pressurized Afghan refugees that refused by both government and Afghanistan and the Afghan humiliating the innocent Afghan amid at ginning more leverages and the militant group. There were masses have right to live wherever refugees and more than 1,000 escape the pressure. In the past reports that a government they want to live, across the innocent Afghans are being Achakzai also showed strong delegation talked to Taliban Afghan land on the other side of arrested in Punjab province of the stance to support Afghans living representatives last week in Durand Line. Afghans that have country. A tripartite agreement on there, saying he would not allow Turkey. “What is important is that been facing inhuman treatment in Afghan refugees in Pakistan was anyone to harass Afghan refugees the meeting was held unofficially, other parts of Pakistan should signed among Afghanistan, the in their own land. He directly said so, individuals from both sides Afghanistan will not be able to come to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, United Nations and Pakistan. But, that Khber Pakhtunkhwa province took part in,” said Aminoddin sustain its army for six months where nobody could be given right Pakistan has yet to implement it belongs to Afghans and they can Mozaffari, a spokesman for the without assistance from the to ask them with refugee card, in true letters and spirit. live there without fear and peace council, adding that more United States, the country's because it is their own land, This comes as recently irritation. “If Afghans are harassed talks were expected in the future. President Ashraf Ghani has said. Achakzai added. The Pashtun Pakistan given one month deadline in other parts of Pakistan, they But the government denied any “We will not be able to support AT Monitoring Desk Pashtun nationalist leader, leader called on Islamabad and for 1.4 million refugees to should come here to the Mahmood Khan Achakzai has meeting with Taliban in Istanbul our army for six months without Kabul to work together and put an repatriate. But this is very Pakhtunkhwa province, where no city, with the president’s U.S. support, and U.S. KABUL: Chief of Pakhtunkhwa denied any right to the institutions end to the ongoing troubles that irrational move. Whenever, one can ask the for refugees cards, Milli Awami Party, and popular of Pakistan to humiliate Afghan spokesman, Shah Hossain capabilities… Because we don’t’ Afghans facing on Torkham Pakistan receives pressure by because it also belongs...P2 Mortazawi, who wrote in his have the money,” Ghani said in Facebook account that those an interview with U.S. television participated in the meeting, did not network CBS News. Asked about represent the “government of worsening of security condition Afghanistan. Zabihullah Mujahid, in Afghanistan including in capital a spokesman for the militants also Kabul, Ghani said that the war is rejected the group’s participation changing from a war against in the meeting. Homayoun Jarir, armies to a war against people. AT News Report incident said Taliban insurgents on member of the high peace council, “21 international terrorist groups Sunday night attacked security said that five “important” are operating in this country. LASHKARGAH : US and NATO in Washir district marked the end suppressed. He said the KABUL: At least seven Afghan check post when the police officers members of the Taliban who Dozens of suicide bombers are forces top commander in of a nine-month mission involving international forces would remain police officers embraced went to the area to help their represented the group’s leader being sent. There are factories Afghanistan Gen. Nicholson on 300 US Marine troops replaced by beside Afghanistan people and martyrdom after the Taliban comrades who were attacked by were present in the meeting. Jarir producing suicide bombers. We Monday asked the Taliban to as many fresh soldiers as part of would continue supporting and insurgent attacked their check the Taliban insurgents. In addition did not identify them. The peace are under siege,” Ghani said on either reconcile with the Afghan troop rotations. Shorab-stationed training the Afghan security and posts in Raigi area in the outskirt to that, he confirmed injures of council said that Monday was the 60 Minutes program. CBS government or face death. The US US Marine forces’ commander in defense forces. “We stand by of Farah City on Sunday evening, three police force embers during last day of the meeting. journalist Lara Logan said that general issued the warning during Helmand, Brig. Gen. Roger Turner Afghan security forces. Insurgents local officials said Monday. The the clash. Without providing Government and Taliban U.S. soldiers and diplomats a change of command ceremony at handed over the command to Brig. should know they have only two clash occurred when the police further details, he said that Taliban representatives had held couldn’t drive two miles in Kabul, the Shorab Military base Benjamin T. Watson. General options: either to arrive at the forces went to the area to help their insurgent also received casualties unsuccessful talks in the past, but between airport and U.S. northwest of Lashkargah, the Nicholson said the US and NATO negotiating table with the Afghan comrades, TOLONews reported. in the clash. this time the Hezb-e-Islami party Embassy, for fear of an attack. provincial capital of southern forces would remain in Afghanistan government or face death. Provincial Governor, Mohammad The Taliban insurgents claimed that gave up opposition to the Instead, they are transported by Helmand province. The ceremony until the insurgents were (Pajhwok) Arif Shahjahan confirmed the responsibility for the attack. government last year,...P2 helicopter.( 1tvnews) TUESDAY .JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES UNSC reiterates support to Afghanistan: UNAMA ...P12 Executive Abdullah All parties reiterated the need for security and development were G hani, UN S C’s m em ber s discuss Abdullah, and other senior Afghan greater international and regional highlighted. Security would allow officials, including the chairman of security cooperation. the realization of regional the High Peace Council Members of the Independent economic projects, the Mohammad Karim Khalili, and Election Commission and the intensification of investments, stepped-up pr essur e on P akistan Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Electoral Complaints Commission trade facilitation and infrastructure Interior, Finance, Agriculture, briefed the delegation on the development, which would result ....P1 Afghanistan, but Pakistan new strategy a positive one for He said that since 2010 this is According to a statement Economy, Trade and Commerce, preparations for the upcoming in the creation of jobs, help diffuse regional cooperation had no result. Afghanistan and region. President the first UNSC delegation has released by US embassy said that among others. They also met with parliamentary and district council tensions and counter incentives of President hinting to terrorist insisted over intra-Afghan peace visited Kabul. the U.S. Ambassador to the UN members of parliament, women’s elections in 2018, including the conflict. Government group in Afghanistan and provide negotiation and peace state to state He stated that we have traveled Nikki Haley was among UN NGOs, civil society organizations, development of an improved voter representatives noted that to this to UNSC delegation witnesses with Pakistan, adding that in order to Kabul in order to assess Security Council members who representatives of political parties registry. Council members end further investment would be about activity, training center and to reach peace in Afghanistan will progresses in different fields traveled to Afghanistan this week. and the electoral management underscored the importance of needed to boost regional projects financial support of terrorist use all countries’ experiences. He particularly peace process and how Ambassador Haley has bodies, as well as the leadership of continued progress on electoral for economic cooperation, groups including Daesh in abroad. said that also for participation of to accelerate this process. consistently supported efforts to the United Nations Assistance reforms and towards the holding including projects on electricity President shared the efforts women in government great steps Also all the delegation of bolster international support and Mission in Afghanistan of free and fair, as well as timely, provision, trade facilitation, hold by Afghan security forces has been held. Kairat Umarov All the delegation praised cooperation for peace and security (UNAMA) and NATO’s Resolute credible and inclusive infrastructure development and against narcotic and destroying of Kazakhstan Ambassador in UNSC Afghan security forces and the in Afghanistan and the region. She Support Mission. parliamentary and presidential transit. They expressed drug factories. He said that said that UNSC will support the National Unity Government and and her UNSC counterparts met Discussions focused on the elections in 2018 and 2019, satisfaction with the recent increase terrorism is a joint threat for all government and people of committed for cooperation of the with Afghan officials to underscore political, security, socio-economic respectively. They reiterated the of trade between Afghanistan and world countries and its outcome Afghanistan and the view about UNSC cooperation with the their commitment to cooperation and human rights situation in the need to increase women’s its neighbours. Afghan authorities will have negative effect to all. reaching peace, stability and Afghanistan in the aspect of peace and continued support for the country. The visit came ahead of participation in the election. expressed hope for the rapid President Ghani also called the US- development in Afghanistan. and stability. country. the Kabul Process meeting, The Security Council mission implementation of projects such scheduled for February 2018, also took the opportunity to as TAPI and CASA-1000 projects, where the Government is expected reiterate its strong support for the development of railway to present its plans for a more UNAMA and its Head, the Special corridors from Central Asian Govt denytheir representatives’participationinTurkeypeacetalks structured peace and security Representative of the Secretary- countries, China and Iran to South process, coordinated with the General for Afghanistan. Asia through the territory of ....P1 intermediated the talks. A real matter. The participants were group’s responsible members were positive impact.” wider region. All parties underlined Security Council members Afghanistan, as well as the political expert, Fazl Ahmad unauthorized people and no not present in the talks. “Taliban But the peace council claims the importance of an inclusive emphasized the need to adopt a development of the ports of Manawi, called the meeting consequence is expected from the members that are credible did not that representatives from Afghan-led and -owned peace regional and integrated security Gwadar and Chabahar to provide “symbolic”. “What took place in talks.” Sayed Akbar Agha, a former take part in the meeting. I don’t government, Taliban and Hezb-e- process for long-term stability and and development approach, which Central Asian countries with Turkey, was a symbolic and not Taliban member believes that the think the meeting would have a Islami were present in the talks. prosperity in Afghanistan and Kazakhstan is proposing as the access to warm waters. Council members renewed their path to sustainable development, Both Security Council commitment to support efforts durable peace and stability in the members and Afghan officials that aim at bringing peace and region. Discussions in Kabul called for improved cooperation reconciliation. stressed the need to view and coordination in the region, Council members reiterated Afghanistan not as a threat to underscoring the need for the 2.8mvulnerableAfghans:$430mneeds their support for the Government’s security in the region but as an international community, reform initiatives, in particular to important partner. It is critical to particularly neighbouring counter corruption and accelerate integrate the economies of countries, to support and inhumanitarianaidthisyear regional cooperation. They Afghanistan and neighbouring cooperate with Afghanistan, expressed concerns about the countries, including Central Asian especially in countering terrorism. ...P1 funding of $317 million in they can be reached, despite current or very recent disasters. United Nations, is working to security environment in States, through enhanced They also called for further 2017,” said the Chief Executive of difficult conditions including Besides the 2.8 million people the improve these underlying Afghanistan, including the interaction and connectivity, inter streamlining of efforts between the Islamic Republic of increasing attacks on aid workers. plan is designed for, another 8.7 conditions, namely via the presence of Al-Qaeda, Taliban and alia, by implementing regional UN agencies on the ground and Afghanistan, His Excellency Dr. “The Humanitarian Response million people are estimated to live Afghanistan National Peace and ISIL-Khorasan Province-affiliated infrastructure, trade, investment, better cooperation between UN Abdullah Abdullah. “The Plan is a crucial part of the with high level of needs as a result Development Framework. fighters, as well as about the nexus transit and transportation projects. agencies and regional organizations Humanitarian Response Plan response to the human suffering of long-standing and unresolved The Humanitarian Response of terrorism and organized crime. The interlinkages between operating in the region. launched today will serve to and the ongoing crisis in issues such as lack of jobs and Plan for Afghanistan is one of more provide timely, life-saving Afghanistan,” said His Excellency livelihoods, long-term than two dozen such plans this assistance to families in emergency Tobias Thyberg, the Ambassador displacement, an underfunded year, requesting a total of U$22.58 shelters or in need of urgent of Sweden to Afghanistan. “After healthcare system or the effects of billion to assist 90.9 million people support across the country.” decades of conflict, we may not climate change. Humanitarian globally. The plans ensure joint The response plan puts abandon people and saving lives emergency assistance cannot humanitarian action in crises Notification for intention forward activities of more than 150 with immediate assistance must provide a solution for such chronic caused by conflict or natural humanitarian partners - national remain our highest priority.” needs, like land for housing or jobs disasters and are the humanitarian and international humanitarian This year’s Humanitarian and vocational training to lift them community’s main tool to raise NGOs and the United Nations - Response Plan focuses only on out of poverty and fragility. The funding with donors and ensure to contract award delivering assistance to families and providing life-saving emergency Government, supported by accountability towards the people communities in need wherever assistance to people caught up in development partners and the served and donors. The Ministry of energy and water of Afghanistan(MEW)intends to award the contract,Rehabilitation/Badalha Village River Bank Protection Works (Lal &Sarjangal District Ghor Province),under the contract No, MEW/PCU/IRDP/HR08/HRT/ Pakistan can’t force Afghan refugees to leave Pakhtunkhwa NCBwithM/S Tamadon-e-Bamic construction.co Address:behind of Rahman Ba ....P1 to them,” Achakzaid said on Putting pressure on Afghan past Pakistan was detained and custody for several days without Ba High school . License No: D-26710in the amount of 15,287,788.1 (Fifteen million that time. refugees I not a new thing as in the kept them (Afghan refugees) in committing crime. two hundred eighty seven thousand and seven hundred eighty eight point one Afghanis).Only. Bidders who want to appealfor reconsideration or have any objection, they can submit their application within 7 days totheMinistry of Energy and Water from Con flictin g r ea ction s over pr esiden tia l the date of announcement. This notification does not constitute award of contract. The contract shall not be decr ee on gath er in gs, dem on str ation s awarded until the notice provided elapsed and complaints, if any received, is addressed ....P1 demonstrations in the past people killed and injured,” she said. the decree would go to the senate houses’ joint commission would in compliance with appeal and review manual. in Kabul city that left tens of Kabir Ranjbar, a lawyer said and if passed in senate, the two decide on.

(Project Coordination Unit) Irrigation Restoration and Development Project NATIONALCOMPETITIVEBIDDING Invitation for Bids (IFB) For Procurement of Works for Rehabilitation of Rubat Bank Protection Works IFB No: MEW/PCU/IRDP/KR-07/Kabul/NCB Date: 16 Jan, 2017 1. This Invitation for Bids follows the General Procurement Notice for this Project that appeared in Development Business published on 11 January 2011. 2. The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Ministry of Energy & Water has received a grant from theInternational Development Associationtoward the cost of Irrigation Restoration and Development Projecttoward the cost of Irrigation Restoration and Development Project, and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to payments under the Contract for the Sub project given in para 3 below. 3. The Project Coordination Unit, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Energy & Water, now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the Rehabilitation of Rubat Bank Protection Works (Rehabilitation of Rubat right side protection wall and Rubat relft side protection) in Miramor district of Daikondi province as per designs drawings, Technical specifications and Bill of Quantity. MEW/PCU/IRDP/KR-07/Kabul/NCB The construction period is 450 Days which includes slack period of 180 Days for flood/adverse weather conditions and resolving community/farmers needs/disputes etc. 4. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the World Bank’s Guidelines: Procurement under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits, dated January 2011 and revised in July 2014 and is open to all bidders from Eligible Source Countries as defined in the Bidding Documents. 5. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from Eng. Nasir Ahmad “Ahadi”, Acting Director and Procurement Officer, Project Coordination Unit, Afghanistan, (Email: [email protected] Telephone: +93(0)700 686 110)and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below from 7:30 to 16:30Hrs from Saturday to Wednesday (Except public holidays). 6. Qualifications requirements include: (a) The minimum required annual volume of construction work for the successful bidder in any of the last five years –34.00 million Afs. (a) Experience as prime contractor in the construction of at least one works of nature and complexity equivalent to this work during the last five (5) years - 17.40 million Afs. (b) Proposals for the timely acquisition (own, lease, hire, etc.) of the essential equipment as given in the bidding document. (c)Contract Manager with five years’ experience in works of an equivalent nature and volume, including no less than three years as Manager. (e) Liquid assets and/or credit facilities, net of other contractual commitments and exclusive of any advance payments which may be made under the Contract 7.00 millionAfs. For detailed post qualification verification please refer to Section I - Instructions to Bidders and Section II- Bid Data Sheet of the bidding documents. A margin of preference for eligible national contractors/joint ventures shall not be applied. 7. The bidders or their authorized representatives are invited to attend a pre-bid meeting which will take place on (06-Feb- 2018)at10 AM in the meeting room at the address given below to explain the procedure of proper preparation and submission of bid, clarify issues and to answer questions on any matter that may be raised at that stage. 8. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be purchased by interested bidders on the submission of a written Application to the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of 2500 AFN. The method of payment will be Cash/Direct Payment. The Bidding Documents shall be collected by the bidders from the address below. 9. Bids must be delivered to the address below at or before (18-Feb- 2018, 10 AM) if this date is announced an official holiday, then bids must be submitted next working day at the same time and venue). Electronic bidding shall not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened physically in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below at (18-Feb- 2018, 10 AM) 10. All bids shall be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of amount:1,000,000 Afghanis. 11. The address referred to above is: Eng. Nasir Ahmad Ahadi, Acting Director Project Coordination Unit Main Office Ministry of Energy & Water, Darulaman road Kabul, Afghanistan. Email: [email protected] Telephone: +93(0)700 686 110 TUESDAY .JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

children and elderly people are the t was expected that 104 main victims of the diseases caused acres or 600 plots in the by air pollution. They said air second section of the pollution causes various diseases township would be like mental, respiratory and heart distributed to teachers for diseases. “There are different types of heart diseases and air construction of their own pollution is one of the main homes this year, but 40 reasons for those diseases. Air percent or 42 acres of the pollution condenses the blood land had been usurped by flow and causes formation of clots powerful figures, he said. and these clots enter to heart valves,” Shoaib Shaban, a medical KABUL: Powerful individuals doctor, told TOLOnews. Kabul have encroached upon around 42 residents said they are worried acres of land belonging to a about the growing air pollution in teacher’s township in central the city. “The air is filled with Parwan province, officials said smoke and pollution especially in Sunday. Zalmai Shahid, Parwan morning and evenings,” Kabul education director, told Pajhwok resident Jamshid said. “People use Afghan News the township on a coal because they don’t have total of 224 acres of land was At least 1.5 million tons of fuel is Mostly Kabul’s bathhouses sufficient electricity to use for located north of Charikar, the consumed by Kabul residents use low-quality fuel,” Head of warming their houses,” said provincial capital. He said 668 annually to produce heat in their Kabul Municipality’s Health Mohammad, a Kabul resident. plots or 120 acres of the homes or offices, Kabul Department Mohammad Edris Kabul Municipality says residents township’s land was allotted to Municipality said. Tokhi said. “We prevented them in big cities including Kabul, Herat teachers in 2014 for building Most of the fuel has a low- (the bathhouses in Kabul) at some and Mazar-e-Sharif are not paying KABUL: Sixty-eight people have According to Zalmai Wardak, the past 17-year. The exact number homes. It was expected that 104 quality and adds to the increasing extent as now 60 to 70 percent of the required attention to help been killed and injured in the number of attacks was up in of casualties before 2017 was not acres or 600 plots in the second air pollution in Kabul City, the them are using gas instead of coal,” reduce air pollution in areas where section of the township would be municipality said. said Tokhi. Physicians said they live. (ToloNews) Afghanistan on average level daily Nangarhar province last year available, but in the past years there distributed to teachers for in 2017 with more than one third because besides the Taliban, Daesh was let up in the fighting during construction of their own homes of these casualties happened in was also active there. winter season which resulted this year, but 40 percent or 42 acres May, July and August months. He added Nangarhar and decline in casualties as well. of the land had been usurped by According to Pajhwok Afghan Helmand provinces shared border Pajhwok annual report powerful figures, he said. The News’s disseminated reports from with Pakistan which another showed that last year there was official said that one acre of land different sources 14,600 people reason of growing attacks. In more fighting in spring and summer allocated for a park in the first have been killed and 10,277 others addition, the growing of narcotics compared to fall and winter and section of the township had also injured in 2,050 various attacks last in Helmand was another reason of the number of casualties was also been grabbed by strongmen. Shahid year. From the total casualties 14 insecurity and lawlessness. high in spring and summer seasons did not name any of the land of every 25 people suffered losses Sharing his views regarding compared to fall and winter. grabbers but said they had in face to face clashes, four in Faryab, he said the province was Military affairs Expert Zalmai constructed buildings on the land airstrikes, three in suicide attacks, of high importance for militants in Wardak said during winter season during nighttime. He expressed two each in targeted attack and the north, because from Faryab the leaves of trees fell to the ground concern over the situation and said bomb blasts. rebels could move to other and rebels could not hide he had shared the issue with In face to face clashes, security provinces of the north as well. themselves thus there reduce their relevant organs including the forces and militants (Daesh, He said besides the Taliban, activities. “Usually these rebels go governor’s house, security organs Taliban) suffered most of casualties Daesh had become more active to the provinces like Helmand, and the Attorney General Office but last year there were reports of with its insurgent activities in Kandahar, or Farah where the but no one had so far taken any JALALABAD: Nangarhar on clashes between the Taliban and Faryab. Zalmai said people living weather is warm during winter or action to stop the land usurpation. Sunday became the country’s first Daesh as well. Zalmai Wardak, in Panshir, Bamyan and Daikundi cross the border into Pakistan for Parwan governor Mohammad province to issue electronic military affairs expert, said more provinces mostly belonged to one next year arms preparation. Asim Asim confirmed that parts passports through postal offices, face to face clashes had been taking tribe and they have unity among Radmnish said rebels suffer of the teacher’s township had been instead of police headquarters. place therefore more casualties themselves and decided not to from losses and shortage of grabbed. “We have taken action for The nationwide project of inflicted in face to face firefight. allow anyone for insurgent equipment therefore there stopping land grabbing in the issuing passports through post He added: “Conflicting sides activities. Gen. Mohammad movement declines. township, security forces are also offices is a joint venture of the had been involved in direct firefight Radmnish, deputy spokesman of He, however, said security available in the area, but police are Ministry of Interior (MoI) and the unable to stay there day and night, Ministry of Telecommunications and use light and heavy weapons the Ministry of Defence, agreed forces operation against rebels was and Information Technology against each other which resulted that shared border with Pakistan, underway in ten provinces of the the grabbers take teachers’ land during night,” he said. The (MCIT). A ceremony to mark the in the surge of loses.” the growing of illicit crop had country currently. project launch was held in the JALALABAD: Construction teachers’ township. He asked the Secondly, the number of helped insurgency in Helmand and Stop killing of Afghans! governor said police had several provincial IT department here on work on a township for teachers Ministry of Urban Development casualties was high in airstrikes Nangarhar province. He added the Attaullah, the resident of Maidan times destroyed structures illegally Sunday and was attended by has been launched in the Kama and Independent Land Authority because these attacks were government had conducted clearing Wardak province Ibrahimkehl built on the township land but it officials from relevant ministries district of eastern Nangarhar to process all technical affairs of deadliest and there was more operations against rebels there. village, said: “Afghans were being did not help. However, he said and Nangarhar local authorities. province, officials said on Sunday. the township and start distributing chance of collateral damage in Casualties: killed under one or another name. I construction of the township’s The IT department head, Abdul The township construction land plots to teachers as soon as airstrikes. In targeted attacks, According to reports, last year want armed groups and the second boundary wall would help Raziq Saqib, said earlier police and distribution of land plots to possible. Urban Development roadside bombing and magnetic most of the attacks 15 occurred on government to stop fighting and prevent the land’s usurpation. The would issue computerized teachers started after frequent Director Eng. Abdul Qahar Haidari bomb explosions the number of November 11, while most people reconcile like brothers.” He added governor did not name any passports, resulting in requests and protests, the promised that land plots would be casualties was lower because few accounted for 569 suffered one of his relative was injured grabbers but said they were overcrowding at the headquarters governor’s media office said. The distributed three months ahead of people had been killed in injured casualties on June 26. Security while he was working in the powerful figures who used to sell and missing of people’s passports. inauguration ceremony was held in the township’s construction. in these attacks. forces, militants and civilians are agriculture land. sold the occupied land to other But now the issue was gradually the presence of the Kama district However, no teacher could sell Most of the last year attacks among the dead and injured people, He asked the international people. Parwan police chief Brig. being resolved and Nangarhar chief and some other officials on their plots. If a teacher did not accounted for 347 took place in but Pajhwok could not share community to help Afghanistan Gen. Mohammad Zaman residents would receive passports Saturday afternoon. Kama district construct a house within three Nangarhar, 184 in Faryab, 168 in separate and exact number dead and end the ongoing conflict and stop Mamozai confirmed the issue and through post offices, he added. chief, Attaullah Hadawal, said they months of the allotment or tried to Helmand, 140, in Kandahar, 100 injured of each category because interference of countries in said: “Our security posts are Deputy IT minister Eng. Ahmad had identified 150 acres of land for sell the plot, then department available in this township, they Shah Sadaat, who attended the the township in Mamakhel area reserved the right to take back the in Farah, 104 in Ghazni, 96 in different sources shared different Afghanistan who had been fueling control the area but areas which event, said the process of Uruzgan, 83 in Logar, 77 in views. Last year, most of the the current conflict to ensure their distributing passports through based on suggestions from land, he warned. are a little far from police are Governor Mohammad Gulab Mohammad Sadiq Dawlatzai, Jawzjan, 72 in Paktika, 63 in casualties occurred in Nangarhar, own interest. sometimes grabbed by people, if post offices in provinces was Kabul and the remaining 616 Kandahar, Helmand and Kabul Muharam Ali, the resident of launched from Nangarhar for the Mangal, influential figures and head of Nangarhar’s Independent there were no police the entire teacher representatives. Akbar Land Authority, promised the plot attacks happened in 22 provinces. provinces and the least number of Kabul’s Dasht-i-Barchi area who township may have been usurped,” first time. He said the distribution The least attacks accounted for casualties took place in Panshir, lost his farther in recent terrorist He said the names of land services was initiated in Jalalabad Sher, a provincial council member, distribution process would get one took place in Panjshir, two in Bamyan, Samangan and Badghis attack on Imam Zaman Mosque, grabbers were mentioned in letters city, the provincial capital, for now said the township had 961 plots under way in the near future. Bamyan while Pajhwok did not provinces. Militants have been said: “We want peace; we want the they had obtained from different but would be soon extended to to be distributed to eligible teachers Nsrarullah Murad, a provincial received any report of casualties fighting Afghan and foreign ongoing fighting and killing of departments. “If we reveal their districts. Wasiullah, who received of the district. He called upon council member, commended from Daikundi province last year. security forces in Afghanistan from Afghans.” (Pajhwok) names it would not be useful, we his passport through post office, teachers to focus on their job and efforts of the Nangarhar governor. should find a solution to this expressed happiness over the avoid protests. Acting Education He vowed to monitor the problem,” he added. Abdul Hafiz initiative, saying in the past people Director Syed Essa Sadat, township’s construction. Ausuli, the provincial appellate would wait for two days to get meanwhile, welcomed the launch He also voiced on people and court head, said the attorney office their passports from the police of work on the project and said teachers to cooperate with the headquarters; but now the issue the governor’s house head been technical team appointed for the had received letters about had been resolved. (Pajhwok) government’s land grabbing from able to identify land for the township affairs. (Pajhwok) the governor’s house and the education department. “Some figures are summoned over this issue but investigations are not yet The Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore seems to be the likely venue complete,” he said. Teachers’ for hosting Afghanistan for their inaugural Test match this year. concern Bashir Ahmad Omaid, 56, a teacher from Qala-i-Khwaja Afghanistan’s National Cricket one-off Test against Afghanistan two governments were keen to see village of Bagram district, said in Team will play their Test against in June when the weather is Afghanistan begin its Test journey his 25 years service he could not India in Bangalore, the Indian daily expected to be good in Karnataka’s against India in India. An official buy a land plot to construct his newspaper, the Hindu, reported. capital. The game will precede announcement is likely to be made own home. He said he had formally Afghanistan and Ireland were India’s short tour of Ireland, the at a press conference in New Delhi requested the Parwan education awarded full membership status at report said. Afghanistan expressed on Tuesday. department a land plot but the land the ICC last June. The Board of a wish to play its first Test against On the same day, the Supreme promised to them in the teacher’s Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) India and the BCCI readily Court has listed the matter related township had been grabbed. He is likely to choose Bengaluru accepted the proposal, it said, to the Justice Lodha cricket expressed concern over the situation and said: “The rights of (Bangalore) as the venue for the adding that the sources said the reforms case. (ToloNews) poor and weak people are always usurped by powerful people.” Abdul Rauf, 50, a teacher in Charikar, who also lives in a rened house, said, “I took the land request form two years ago, I filled it and we were promised the land allotment this (1396) solar year, but the land was usurped and we missed the chance.” He said education was a country’s KABUL: The Ministry of Rural backbone and teachers must be Rehabilitation and Development provided with basic facilities of life (MRRD) put into service 30 for improvement of the education projects after their completion in sector. Pointing to their land central Logar province, the seizure, he said teachers in ministry said Sunday. Afghanistan were not appreciated A statement from the MRRD and their rights were taken away quoted Logar rural rehabilitation by strongmen due to government’s director Eng. Ashaqullah Ikhlas as negligence. According to Parwan saying the projects included water education department, 6,000 supplying networks and hundreds teachers including 1,000 of them of meters of retaining walls. female are serving in Parwan He said digging dozens of clean schools. The land grabbing is a drinking water wells and asphalting nationwide issue and in Parwan it nearly seven kilometers of roads is not confined to the teachers’ were part of the projects. township only, but in prevalence He said the projects had been in other parts of the province. cent percent completed at a cost According to Afghanistan Land of 163 millions afghanis in the Authority, around 560,000 acres provincial capital and some According to him, six more the province over the next two or of government land has been districts. projects would also completed in three weeks. (Pajhwok) grabbed countrywide. (Pajhwok) TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES TTP spokesperson Asad Mansoor surrenders to security forces

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan’s had announced the surrender of (TTP) spokesperson Asad Man- eight JuA militants. In a subse- soor, surrendered himself to Paki- quent video confession, Ehsan In the press conference on Friday, the four stan’s security forces, officials publicly admitted that Afghani- confirmed to The Express Tribune. stan’s National Directorate of Se- judges had flagged some problems, including According to the officials, Man- curity (NDS) and India’s Research soor had handed himself to Law and Analysis Wing (RAW) are the assigning of cases by the Chief Justice of Enforcement Agencies (LEA) in funding and helping the TTP and Dera Ismail Khan, three weeks ago. its affiliates carry out terrorist at- India, and said there were certain issues af- The details of his surrender still tacks in Pakistan. remained murky but officials said “Ehsanullah Ehsan’s confessional flicting the country’s highest court. that it was “the result of much hard video was aimed at exposing the work”. Mansoor was commander enemy designs against Pakistan Here are the live updates of the Hakimullah Mehsuf group before the ordinary citizens,” Di- The 9,400 Rohingyas from Shap where it has been hard to reach and and belongs Soutth Waziristan, rector General Inter-services Pub- Marar Jhiri and Boro Shon Khola provide proper assistance,” said Last year in April, key command- lic Relations (ISPR) Major Gen areas of Naikkhanchari in Bandar- UNHCR spokeswoman Caroline er of JuA Ehsanullah Ehsan also Asif Ghafoor said during a press ban district will be assisted in mov- Gluck. Gluck said: “They did not turned himself in to security forc- briefing. ing to Kutapalong refugee camp have access to education or medi- es. Earlier the same month, ISPR (Tribune) over the next few week UNHCR cal facilities. Helping them move and its partners have begun opera- to Kutapalong refugee camp will tions to help relocate more than mean that we can provide a full 9,400 Rohingyas who have been range of assistance.” According to living in border locations in Bang- the statement, some 47 families – ladesh for the last few months. The 199 individuals—were moved to refugees are being relocated to give Kutapalong on Sunday. them more easily access assistance The statement said the newly ar- and basic services, said a statement rived families will be taken to the issued by the United Nations High camp by bus and will be given Commissioner for Refugees. medical checks and hot meals. Be- The 9,400 Rohingyas from Shap sides, the families will also be pro- Marar Jhiri and Boro Shon Khola vided with emergency relief items areas of Naikkhanchari in Bandar- and shelter kits. At least 655,000 ban district will be assisted in mov- Rohingyas have entered Bang- ing to Kutapalong refugee camp ladesh fleeing the violence which over the next few weeks. “These erupted in Myanmar on August 25, The four senior-most Supreme family member B does not want bar Council of India 1pm: Attor- families have been living in fairly 2017. Court judges on Monday attend- it,” says Abhishek Singhvi of Con- ney General KK Venugopal also isolated areas near the border, (PressTV) ed court and took up routine work gress on CBI Judge BH Loya’s told media outlets that the issue after publicly criticising the Chief death. 4:40pm: “We are not politi- has been settled. “Now everything Justice of India (CJI) for his style cising Justice Loya’s death. There has been settled. It was a storm in of administration and raising the should be a high-court monitored a tea cup,” Venugopal told NDTV. issue of assignment of cases last probe into his death,” says Con- 12.40pm: On Sunday, Chief Jus- week. The four judges -- justice J gress national spokesperson Abh- tice of India Dipak Misra had met Chelameswar, justice Ranjan Go- ishek Singhvi. a seven-member delegation of the goi, justice Madan B Lokur and 1.40pm:?To a question whether Bar Council of India and Supreme justice Kurian Joseph -- took up any action should be taken against Court Bar Association President their respective business on the them for criticising the chief jus- Vikas Singh and had assured them first working day of the top court tice of india, Bar Council of India that the crisis would be sorted out after the January 12 press confer- chairman said there is no need of soon and congeniality would pre- ence. Here are the live updates: any action and they are all honest vail. 12.30pm:?Four senior Su- 4:45pm: “If a matter impinges on and men of integrity. preme Court judges, who had held a vital organ of democracy like this 1.20pm: “All courts are function- an unprecedented press conference then the demand for enquiry is a ing. We are thankful to the 4 judg- and raised issue of assignment of demand by responsible stakehold- es and the CJI that they resolved cases, attended court and took up ers. It is not dependent on wheth- the matter on their own,” says routine work on Monday. er family member A wants it and Manan Mishra, chairman of the (Hindustan Times)

Japan stands steadfastly behind Myanmar against global condem- nation over its handling of the vio- lence in northern Rakhine State that forced over 650,000 Muslims to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh. “Japan has confidence in Myan- mar and its present leadership,” Toshihide Ando, deputy press secretary, told reporters on Friday, when Foreign Minister Taro Kono met with State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in Nay Pyi Taw to announce an emergency aid The British and Indian Govern- subjudice and already on going in package of US$3 million (K4.05 ments have signed agreements that the court of law." The liquor baron billion) to help fund the repatria- will help tackle International is in the eye of a storm, having fled tion of refugees. “This emergency crimes and return illegal migrants from India where he is wanted for grant aid is to provide humanitari- in UK to India. The deal, inked by fraud and money laundering an assistance in rebuilding the liv- Minister of State (MoS) for Home amounting to around Rs 9,000 ing condition, including provision Kiren Rijuju's recent visit to the crore. India and the UK already for electricity, water purifiers, fuel country with UK immigration have an Extradition Treaty signed Sri Lanka reimposed a law banning the selling of alcohol to women and and plastic containers, in the sites minister Caroline Nokes, will pave in 1992 and has been in force since preventing them from working in liquor stores on Monday – just days for resettlement of the returned en, “with the view of improving the unrest began on August 25 last way for key data sharing agree- November 1993. But the new after it was lifted. Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera revoked the displaced persons,” Ando said, the humanitarian situation in Ra- year. The recent spate of violence ments with India on criminal MoUs will deal with the issue of 1979 ban last week. The return of the ban was announced by President reading the official statement about khine.” “This is subject to the erupted when fighters of the Ara- records and the return of Indians illegal migrants who have no right Maithripala Sirisena at an election rally on Sunday. The government’s the assistance. “This decision the approval of the Japanese parlia- kan Rohingya Salvation Army living in Britain as illegal migrants. to stay in the UK. The new deal main coalition partners, the center-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party and government made today (Friday), ment,” Ando said. Before leaving (ARSA), which the government The MoU on criminal records will reflect increased co-operation Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s center-right United National to provide a new emergency grant Myanmar on Saturday, Kono vis- labeled as a terrorist organisation, exchange will lead to British and between the two countries, which Party, are campaigning for long-delayed local elections. The ban was aid,” he said Ando said Kono told ited Mungdaw district in northern and their supporters attacked si- Indian law enforcement bodies already enjoy a close relationship, lifted after repeated requests from the tourism industry to extend bar Daw Aung San Suu Kyi the Japa- Rakhine, which was a hotbed of multaneously government out- sharing criminal records informa- a British government release said. hours and allow female tourists to buy alcohol, according to officials at nese government is also consider- violence last year, to see for him- posts in the area that killed several tion, fingerprints and intelligence "The MoU on criminal the Finance Ministry. The move was criticized by opposition parlia- ing another $20 million in addition- self the devastation in the area. He security forces. Kono also visited Sources in the Ministry of records exchange will lead to Brit- mentarians who said it would damage Sri Lanka’s Buddhist values. al aid to Rakhine, which will in- was the first minister of a foreign the area near the border with Bang- Home Affairs (MHA) said though ish and Indian law enforcement clude vocational training for wom- country to visit the region since ladesh. the two Memorandums of Under- bodies sharing criminal records in- standing (MoUs) were inked be- formation, fingerprints and intelli- tween the two countries, the deal gence," the British Government will be sealed by Prime Minister statement has said. This will as- PM Abbasi attends top-level PML-N huddle with Nawaz Sharif Narendra Modi and UK PM sist the police in protecting the Theresa May during his upcom- public from known criminals, in- ing visit in April this year. "The cluding sex offenders and also al- Prime Minister (PM) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, on Monday, attended a top-level Pakistan Muslim League- agreements signed cover important low the courts in both countries to Nawaz (PML-N) huddle with chief minister Punjab Shehbaz Sharif, deposed PM Nawaz Sharif, minister of issues of returns and criminal access more information to sup- Railways Saad Rafique, and other leaders. According to Express News, Abbasi arrived in Lahore after a visit records exchange to the mutual port tougher sentencing decisions. to Islamabad and was received by Shehbaz, and the two then departed for Jati Umra for the meeting. benefits of both countries," Nokes This will also address key concerns Consultative huddle: PML-N, legal aides weigh options Party leaders discussed incoming senate elections, said. The development comes of extremist groups working the current condition of the country, and of the political happenings in detail. Special attention was paid to the close on the heels of India seeking against Indian interests in UK. The political upheaval in Balochistan, and the PML-N sit-ins during the meeting. As soon as the meeting conclud- UK's help in the early extradition country will be able to send mi- ed, PM Abbasi and Shehbaz departed in a helicopter for Lahore. Earlier this month, accepting advice of the of liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya grants back to India quicker after prime minister, his colleagues and political allies, Balochistan Chief Minister Nawab Sanaullah Zehri resigned from Britain. Sources in the Min- the authorities back home confirm from his position ahead of a provincial assembly session that was called for voting on a no-confidence motion istry said that "the case of Mallya the identity of the illegal migrant. against him. may not be impacted as the case is (ANA) TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Tunisia arrests 41 more after fresh anti- austerity protests Tunisian police arrested 41 more protesters after fresh violent pro- tests against austerity measures Russian Foreign Minister Sergei in the North African country, the Lavrov said on Monday Moscow interior ministry said on Mon- will not support attempts by day, bringing the number of ar- Washington to modify the Iran rested to around 850. Policemen nuclear deal, arguing such a move and people react during demon- could also complicate diplomacy strations on the seventh anniver- over North Korea’s nuclear weap- sary of the toppling of president ons programme. Lavrov spoke Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, in Tunis, days after U.S. President Donald Tunisia January 14, 2018. Trump said he would waive nu- Protests which started about a clear sanctions against Iran for the week ago erupted again on Sun- last time to give Washington and day, fuelled by anger at tax and its European allies a chance to fix price increases imposed by the the “terrible flaws” of the 2015 government to cut a budget defi- nuclear deal. “We will not support cit. A Reuters witness saw youths what the United States is trying to throwing stones at police cars and do, changing the wording of the setting fire to tires before securi- agreement, incorporating things ty forces drove them back with that will be absolutely unaccept- tear gas in the Ettadamen district able for Iran,” Lavrov told a news in Tunis last night. There were conference in Moscow. Russia’s also protests in Kram district. top diplomat, who stressed that On Monday, the situation was Russia will work to preserve the calm. ?“?The movements (pro- tests) were limited to Ettadamen, existing Iran nuclear deal, also Daoura, Hicher and Kram in the warned that the agreement’s col- capital and in Sidi Bouzid and Fe- lapse could be detrimental to dia- riana,?”? Khelifa Chibani, logue with North Korea. Lavrov spokesman of the interior minis- suggested Pyongyang would look try, said. Some protestors had at how Iran had been treated by tried to break into a customs Washington and wonder if any deal building, he added. A total of 41 it did with the United States on its protesters were arrested, he said. own missile and nuclear pro- gramme would hold or also be The government pledged on Sat- community should approach the the sanctions against Pyongyang.” In separate comments on Monday, urday extra aid for poor families called into question. “If the deal is and those in need in response to put aside and Iran is told, ‘you two countries’ nuclear pro- Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, said the demonstrations. Tunisia has keep up with your obligations or grammes in the same manner. Trump’s threats to withdraw from the nuclear deal were fanning “Ira- been hailed as the only democratic we will impose sanctions again’, “They are being promised that nophobia” and meant to deprive Tehran of the agreement’s economic success of the Arab Spring. then you have to see it from North sanctions will be lifted if they give benefits. “Scaring the international community with the decisions of a Korea’s point of view,” said up their nuclear programme. They mad man is a repetitive tactic that has proved to be ineffective,” Fars will give it up, but no one will lift news agency quoted Shamkhani as saying. (AP) Germany Lavrov, stressing the international seeks more Philippines detail on what US wants on shutsdown Iran nuke deal news site BERLIN — The German gov- ernment says it will seek more At least 27 people were killed and attacks and bombings in Baghdad detail on what the U.S. wants 64 wounded in a twin suicide and different parts of the country. critical of regarding the nuclear deal with bombing in central Baghdad on The German foreign ministry con- Iran after President Donald Monday, the deadliest attack so demned the devastating attack in Trump demanded that Europe- far this year in the Iraqi capital, an Baghdad and expressed its condo- Rodrigo an allies fix what he called “terri- interior ministry official said. Two lences to the families of those ble flaws.” Chancellor Angela men detonated explosives vests in killed. The attack in Aviation Duterte Merkel’s spokesman, Steffen Aviation Square, a commercial dis- Square was one of the deadliest in Seibert, stressed Monday that trict and gathering point for day Baghdad since a massive truck MANILA — The Philippines or- Germany stands by the nuclear labourers seeking work, scores of bomb killed at least 324 people in dered the closing on Monday of deal. He said that Germany will whom were killed and injured, ac- the nearby commercial district of an independent online news site analyze the situation with its cording to the official. Karrada in July 2016. The Karra- that has been critical of President European partners. Iraq declared victory last da bombing was the deadliest sin- Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, Trump threatened Friday to pull month over Islamic State (IS) mil- gle attack in Iraq since the 2003 prompting protests from industry the U.S. out of the nuclear deal itants who seized control of near- U.S.-led invasion that ousted Sad- groups who called the move an at- in a few months’ time. Iran has ly a third of the country in 2014. dam Hussein. tack on press freedom. The Secu- said it’s not interested in any re- However, IS continues to carry out (Reuters) rities and Exchange Commission of negotiation. German Foreign the Philippines said the news site, Ministry spokeswoman Maria Rappler, had violated a constitu- Adebahr said officials will sit tional rule that restricts ownership down with the Americans and of media entities to Filipinos. The “see what goal and request ex- commission said that Rappler had actly Mr. Trump’s comments employed a “deceptive scheme to contain.” She said that Trump’s circumvent” the rules, an allegation statement appeared to have been that the online publication denied directed “first and foremost to President Tayyip Erdogan said on Ankara. “What can that terror say to all our allies: don’t get in and vowed to fight in court. In a his own Congress.” Monday the United States was army target but Turkey?” “Our between us and terrorist organisa- note to its readers, Rappler said Copyright 2018 The Associated trying to create a “terror army” on mission is to strangle it before it’s tions, or we will not be responsi- that it had been warned last month Press. All rights reserved. This Turkey’s southern frontier by even born.” On Sunday, the U.S.- ble for the unwanted consequenc- that a ruling was being prepared material may not be published, training a Syrian border force that led coalition said it was working es,” Erdogan said. “Either you take but added that it had been confi- broadcast, rewritten or redistrib- includes a Kurdish militia, and with the mainly Kurdish YPG-led off your flags on those terrorist dent the regulator would decide in uted. pledged to crush it before it came Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) organisations, or we will have to its favor. “The S.E.C.’s kill order (WP) into being. Turkish President Tayy- to set up a new 30,000-strong bor- hand those flags over to you ...Our revoking Rappler’s license to op- ip Erdogan speaks during a meet- der force. The plan has infuriated operations will continue until not erate is the first of its kind in his- ing at the Presidential Palace in Turkey, which considers the YPG a single terrorist remains along our tory — both for the commission UK air Ankara, Turkey, January 10, 2018. to be an extension of the PKK, a borders, let alone 30,000 of them.” and for Philippine media,” the note Yasin Bulbul/Presidential Palace/ Kurdish group waging an insurgen- Erdogan also said that Turkey’s said. “What this means for you, Handout via REUTERS “A coun- cy in southern Turkey and deemed armed forces had completed prep- and for us, is that the commission force try we call an ally is insisting on a terrorist organisation by Turkey, arations for an operation against is ordering us to close shop, to forming a terror army on our bor- the United States and European the Kurdish-controlled region of cease telling you stories, to stop ders,” Erdogan said in a speech in Union. “This is what we have to Afrin in northwest. (AP) speaking truth to power, and to scrambles 2 let go of everything that we have built — and created — with you fighters as since 2012,” it added. The Philip- pines has one of the region’s most Franceseeksnewdeal freewheeling news industries. Russian More than 30 newspapers have sprung up across the country since democracy was restored 32 years jets fly with UKover migrants ago. Rappler said that it had been consistently transparent and that nearby French officials say France wants it had told corporate regulators to sign a new deal with the U.K. about its company structure when LONDON — Britain’s de- that would involve greater British it started operating in 2012. fense ministry says the Roy- financing of the costs of handling “Transparency, we believe, is the al Air Force has scrambled migrants camped in the northern best proof of good faith and good two fighter jets as Russian French port city of Calais. A top conduct,” said Rappler, which has Officials from North and South to discuss a North KThe Associ- French official, who spoke on con- won local and international awards planes neared U.K. airspace dition of anonymity, said Monday — another illustration of on- Korea will meet this week to dis- ated Press A bus carrying the South for its reporting of impunity in Mr. cuss again North Korea's partici- Korean delegations passes as that the two countries are negoti- Duterte’s deadly war on drugs. going tensions. The RAF ating "day and night" to sign an confirmed a “quick reaction pation in the Winter Olympics South Korean soldier salutes at “This is pure and simple ha- amid cooling tensions between the Unification Bridge, which leads to agreement at Thursday's joint rassment, the seeming coup de alert,” deploying Typhoon summit. Separately, French Inte- aircraft from the Lossiemouth two, but the North warned it could the Panmunjom in the Demilita- grâce to the relentless and mali- choose to cut off its cooperation rized Zone in Paju, South Korea, rior minister Gerard Collomb said cious attacks against us since base in Scotland, but military at any time. Interested in North Monday, Jan. 15, 2018. During Sunday in Le Parisien newspaper 2016,” Rappler said. The presi- authorities say nothing was Korea? Add North Korea as an in- today’s talks, a follow-up to a that France also wants Britain to dent’s office sought to distance it- intercepted. The incident terest to stay up to date on the breakthrough meeting with high- take in more refugees, especially self from the order, saying it was Monday is one of several in latest North Korea news, video, level officials from both sides last unaccompanied minors. Under the the commission’s job to determine recent years as Russian fight- and analysis from ABC News. week, North Korea said it would terms of the 2003 Touquet accords, corporate legality. er planes test NATO and Brit- North Korea Add Interest send three delegates to attend British border officials are sta- (BBC) ish air defenses. North Korea today proposed Wednesday’s meeting. The two tioned in northern France. Russia’s military has also the working-level talks for sides met today on the southern sought to probe the resolve Wednesday during a meeting be- side of Panmunjom, a demilitarized of naval forces, with warships tween the two sides, according to zone known as the truce village. It being diverted to monitor the South Korean Unification was the second such meeting in less Libyadestroyslast of itsGaddafi-erachemical weapons passing naval vessels. Last Ministry, which said it accepted than seven days. But the relation- The international community has praised Libya for destroying the last week, the HMS Westminster, the proposal. Officials from the ship between the two Koreas is of its chemical weapons from the Gaddafi-era following a ceremony to a Portsmouth-based Type 23 two Koreas met today to iron out still a complicated one, which mark the occasion over the weekend. The Organisation for the Prohibi- frigate, was ordered to inter- details about the North’s plan to North Korea proved Sunday when tion of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) confirmed the complete destruc- cept two warships and two send a delegation to the South dur- it indirectly threatened to pull out tion of these materials in Germany which took place on 23 November supporting vessels passing ing next month’s Winter Olympic of the Olympics to protest what 2017. Approximately 500 tonnes of Category 2 chemical agents, la- near U.K. waters. Copyright in Pyeongchang, South Korea. A it called South Korea's "sordid acts belled as “significant risk”, were reportedly removed from Libya in 2018 The Associated Press. bus carrying the South Korean del- of chilling" reconciliation efforts, 2016 and moved to Germany – Libya’s Category 1 and 3 chemicals All rights reserved. This ma- egations passes as South Korean North Korea’s state-run Korean were previously destroyed. “Today’s event marks a historic occasion terial may not be published, soldier salutes at Unification Central News Agency said. In this for disarmament and international security. It heralds the end of Libya’s broadcast, rewritten or redis- Bridge, which leads to the Panmu- photo provided by South Korea chemical demilitarisation process,” OPCW chief, Ahmet Uzumcu, said njom in the Demilitarized Zone in Unification Ministry, the head of at the ceremony held in Germany on Saturday. According to the Presi- tributed. Paju, South Korea, Monday, Jan. South Korean delegation Lee Woo- (BBC) dency Council’s Foreign Minister, Mohamed Siala, Libya destroyed its 15, 2018. The rival Koreas agreed sung, right. (WP) chemical weapons in order to prevent the likelihood. (CNN) TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

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

AFGHANISTAN TIMES OnlystrongAfghanair forcecan Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy guaranteewinningthewar onterror By Sayed Niyam Alami (TAAC-Air) mission in Afghanistan cal support. In order to avoid civil- very effective in carrying out suc- Phone No: +93-797070563 promises that under current plans, ian and reduce military causalities, cessful operations. At this stand, the E-mail: [email protected] NATO wants to boost the size of Afghan forces should unquestionably AAF — as acknowledged by the US Although the US and alliance forces the AAF from 8,000 to 12,000 maintain a strong air force. Given top military commander in Afghan- have been working to develop the troops and grow its inventory from the vast distances and rugged ter- istan, Gen. Nicholson — is a grand Email: [email protected] Afghan Air Force (AAF) for more 124 to 259 aircrafts as part of re- rain of Afghanistan, flying is quick- force in the region and the Afghan than a decade now, the AAF has still capitalization. Meanwhile, Presi- er and safer for chasing down insur- talent is known around the globe. not been enabled to reach a stage dent Ashraf Ghani lauds the force gents on the condition that the air- Therefore, the force should be en- www.afghanistantimes.af whereby it could take on the securi- which he says will be tripled soon crafts are manned by only Afghan trusted with full access to aircrafts. Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi ty role being fulfilled by US and co- under the four-year security plan for airmen. With full control at dispos- Also more airmen should be sent to alition forces. The force’s accom- Afghanistan that includes strength- al, Afghans will act as eagles in hunt- various countries for studies and re- plishments and achievements are ening the air force as an important ing terrorists sent from their well- ceiving trainings. Moreover, the Advisory editorial board hailed but control of the aircrafts is aspect. However, in an assessment known hotbeds across the imaginary TAAC-Air mission in Afghanistan not being fully handed to Afghans. — conducted between March and borderline. However, during many should focus more on training and Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar The AAF has been many times laud- August 2017 — released on January air operations, the Afghan talented meeting the logistical needs of the ed as unique force in the region with 4 the Pentagon’s top watchdog is youth is not given the opportunity. AAF and it should have a coherent Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir a mighty and young force; howev- highly critical of NATO-led, US- The airstrikes are conducted mere- and clear strategy for materializing er, it is still unable to carry out op- supported efforts to improve and ly by foreign pilots that, as we have its claim of helping the AAF to reach Graphic-Designers: erations solely. Since its inception expand the AAF. The review ac- witnessed, are faulty and almost al- full strength over the next few years. in 1924 under the reign of King knowledges that Afghanistan’s air ways cause collateral damage. The The donor countries must provide Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada Amanullah Khan, the elite Afghan- arm has improved in some respects, flawed airstrikes have many factors more gunships and aircrafts in order Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: istan Air Force (AAF) has went but criticizes significant gaps in but communication problem is a case to fully equip the force. Since a high through many ups and downs training and logistical support to the in point. The foreigners flying the level delegation from the United Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 throughout the war-weary Afghan air force. The assessment adds that jets have difficulties while receiving Nations Security Council (UNSC) is history. The 95-year-old AAF was coalition advisers are not adequate- the coordinates of a place from in Kabul to assess the progress of Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan once powerful on regional level hav- ly prepared for the tasks at hand. It ground forces; because they include war in Afghanistan, it is duty of the Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 ing 240 different types of military is very bewildering as the assessment foreigners from various NATO- Afghan government to highlight the aircrafts, 40 logistic aircrafts and puts down that the international member countries speaking differ- importance of a strong Afghan air Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press 150 cargo planes. When the United effort still lacks a coherent, over- ent languages. As misinterpretation force against the complexity in the States invaded Afghanistan in 2001, arching strategy. This is while Brig. problem occurs; the air raids result war on terror. The Afghan govern- Afghan air combat capability had Gen. Phillip Stewart, the U.S. Air in failure. When the Afghans are ment and politicians should clearly atrophied; whereas, the AAF was in Force commander in charge of granted full control and the foreign tell the members of the delegation its heyday in the 1970s, when it was NATO’s TAAC-Air mission in Af- advisors asked to pay serious heed that foreign support of terrorists The constitution says the beneficiary of Russian training ghanistan, says that over the six to the training sphere, there will be fighting the Afghan security forces and equipment. The force was again years to come, the US military and no chance of mistaken operations is no more a secret. In presence of Article 122: paid attention in 2007 after its com- its coalition partners will invest $7 and the so-called friendly fire. Be- foreign support of terrorists, I rec- No law shall, under any circumstances, exclude any case or area from the jurisdiction of the judicial plete extinction during the 1990s billion to augment the AAF, includ- cause Afghans know their territo- ommend to the Afghan government organ as defined in this chapter and submit it to another authority. This provision shall not prevent civil war and the following era of ing a more than twofold increase to ries well than anybody else, so they to pay more attention to the AAF formation of special courts stipulated in Articles Sixty- Nine, Seventy-Eight and One Hundred Twenty the US-led invasion of Afghanistan the country’s aircraft fleet. It is not know the exact hideouts of rebels. in order to be victorious against in- Seven of this Constitution, as well as cases related to military courts. The organization and authority of in 2001. Since the beginning of its clear yet how the promise made by In addition, the air-ground integra- surgents, defend its borders and be these courts shall be regulated by law. revival efforts, the force has been the international fraternity could be tion and coordination between the able to maintain its territorial in- gaining strength. NATO’s Train, honored in a situation when there Afghan National Army on the tegrity with minimum civilian and Advise, Assist Command-Air are huge gaps in training and logisti- ground and the AFF in air would be military causalities.

By Andrew Mitrovica

Oprah, Democrats have turned their lonely eyes to you. Still smarting from somehow forfeiting the White House to a popular TV celebrity, bruised and bemused Democrats are longing, it seems, for another popular TV celebrity to win it back soon. So, the chatter ooking over uncertainty at persist time, none can hold positive about President Oprah has begun motion over better tomorrow, which is very gloomy for us. If in earnest and could, in time, gath- someone thinks you’re the best leader, at the same time very er inexorable momentum. It's fit- ting that a forgettable evening de- capable to lead a country toward betterment, but a moment of stability voted to celebrating ephemeral star- can quickly yields to instability and threat of chaos. Caution has to be dom may be remembered for launching Oprah 2020. That exercised in every situation as still we have so-called stability. Surely, Oprah accepted a trinket named President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Abdullah Ab- after a staunchly Republican film director was an unacknowledged hoarded wealth and power among dullah, the National Security Advisor Haneef Atmar, and the entire footnote to her acceptance speech executives surely do. The same US she possessed the resume to be the ruling oligarchs. Dismissed, deni- team has been working hard to turn challenges into opportunities— that prompted giddy Democrats cable "news" executives who hap- head of a television network, not grated and disenfranchised, the US in Hollywood and beyond, includ- pily enabled an avowed, but en- the head of state. Apparently and, electorate holds existing discredit- most importantly to convince regional countries and the international ing Meryl Streep, to begin to dearingly brash, racist's ascenden- not surprisingly, her reservations ed political institutions in con- community to honestly stand alongside the government to bring a log- dream the impossible dream. To cy to the Oval Office are, no quietly evaporated soon after tempt. In this cynical, self-serving ical end to the ongoing war in the country. We, the Afghan masses are be sure, Oprah's fluent address at doubt, slobbering at the prospect Trump's shocking victory. Oprah context, the emergence of so-called the Golden Globe ceremony earli- of an Oprah vs Trump showdown has the money, the telegenic tal- "populists" who seek to harness taking these efforts as a beginning to end the current challenges. Defi- er this week was an antidote to the on the Potomac. The appetising ent, a devoted constituency and a the pervasive anger and discontent nitely, looking into ambiguity, the leadership of the National Unity daily and depressing digest of ingredients of the ultimate reality- stock, inspirational rags-to-riches for parochial political dividends is crass, illiterate musings of a presi- TV extravaganza are within tanta- backstory. With caveats, Barack a natural consequence. Oprah Government will take every step very carefully with sole aim of not dent who re-affirmed his signature lising reach. Combine two billion- Obama and Bill Clinton employed would likely position herself as the deteriorating achievement gained in the past 16-year. Recently, Presi- repugnancy by lamenting that the aire cultural icons with marquee- the same shopworn playbook to anti-Trump by simply exporting the US welcomes too many black im- sized personalities and the com- become commander-in-chief. kinder, gentler, charitable person- dent Ghani, and CEO Abdullah and other high ranking officials met migrants from "shitholes" in Afri- bustible mixture of race, politics If you want to become president ality she has cultivated throughout with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in Kabul, ca and Haiti, and not enough from and gender. Then, package the cho- tomorrow, you better be a TV star her lengthy and fabulously success- lily-white Norway. Still, the jux- reographed Punch and Judy show today. The popular, largely, but not ful career on TV into the political in which key issues of the country discussed. Efforts against terrorism, taposition of an eloquent, African during prime-time across America exclusively, chauvinist critique is arena. An accomplished actress, corruption, drugs-trafficking, acceleration of the peace process and American female TV star contest- for month after glorious month. It's that Oprah lacks the knowledge and Oprah would also be adept at ful- preparations for parliamentary elections were discussed. These are ing the presidency against a de- tantamount to a cable news execu- governing experience to assume the filling the institutional prerequisite crepit, white, male TV star has tive's wet dream. And the same presidency and that her potential of any president to "act presiden- very important matters. UNSC members shed light on different areas, now taken on even more political cable news executives will, once candidacy is, in the pernicious age tial" when the situation and the saying security and stability in Afghanistan is very much important to potency and it could prove irre- again, camouflage their myopic glee of Trump, further evidence of the times demand it. In this regard, at sistible to Democrats thirsting to over the prospective battle of the dangerous "degradation" of US least, Oprah has oodles of perform- the region. They also praised the Afghan security forces performances deliver a decisive and ever so sat- megastars behind sober-sounding politics. The inherent implication ing experience and know-how. By in the fight against terrorists. Fortunately, President Ghani fully grasped isfying comeuppance to Mr "Grab tripe about serving the "public" is that the "degradation" of Amer- these measures, Oprah would, un- them by the p****" just over the interest and "responsible" journal- ican political and civic discourse deniably, make for a formidable the opportunity by sharing interlocutors evidences of terror groups political horizon. The clash of TV ism. Trump greeted news of that has given "populist" rise to political adversary and candidate being trained and funded outside Afghanistan. It was also noted that titans would make, of course, for Oprah's nascent presidential am- President Trump and the disqui- who could certainly attract broad, compelling viewing too. Oprah and bitions with his trademark smirk, eting notion - in "elite" commen- enthusiastic support throughout pressure on Pakistan should be increased for ensuring stability in Af- Trump - two household brand while reminding us that she had tariat quarters - of President Oprah, America, perhaps including from ghanistan. Indeed, plenty of issues were discussed; some achievements names who leveraged a keen un- the Trump clan on her show not is a relatively new phenomenon. her loyal fans, Michelle Obama and made during three years also put on the table. The fresh progress may derstanding of the visceral allure too long ago. He snorted that he It isn't. Noam Chomsky has long her husband. Oprah's detractors, of television into fame and fortune would beat her soundly. Unde- and persuasively explained that who claim that the presidency is a be irresistible. But question arise here that does the government has - facing off in a gripping series to terred, Oprah signalled, via surro- neo-liberal policies practised and serious job reserved for "serious" inner peace with different circles within the country. As it was men- secure America's most treasured gates on and off TV, her brewing championed by elites along Amer- people, not only pine for a return and illusive rose. Imagine the ce- desire to become president, de- ica's razor-narrow political and to a time and place in US politics tioned in the beginning, it will not take an hour to see everything into lestial-bound ratings. Television spite demurring in the past that media spectrum, have, by design, that no longer exists. (Aljazeera) reverse pace. As for the reverse—the President Ghani needs some- thing done legislatively to ease people’s concern and lock the door of every miseries at nearest time. It is very annoying to see when the ousted Balkh governor, Atta Mohammad Noor warned of using reve- nues from lucrative Hairatan port if salaries are blocked. Recently, the Afghanistan Independent Directorate of Local Governance has said they would not approve request for salaries with his (Noor’s) signature. So this is what we are concern over. One thing is for must that one man army will never succeed in a country’s like Afghanistan where there are several political parities—all of them hell-bent in leverages. There is no escape from it—something which is not good. But let’s work for our motherland collectively. Today, we must work together on a joint mission of development through improving agriculture, water, defense, health, education and in other fields. Let’s making a better tomorrow with joints efforts with acceptances of each others. Subscription Rates Note: The following rates will apply from January 01, 2017. Fee Categories Afghanistan Times Annual Afg: 5400 at your door step For fast delivery service Six Months Afg: 2700 Afghanistan Times seeks the names, addresses of your International Organization $240 per year organizations and the number of copies you want. TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By Jamal Osman strikes in Somalia. The Pentagon 2017, 34 air and drone strikes were tive branches, and this administra- Jabal, a senior al-Shabab command- controlled areas. This makes it im- perished soon after they buried their claimed that this order expanded its carried out, killing more than 200 tion, not Donald Trump, should be er in Somalia, was killed in a US strike possible for journalists and interna- loved ones. A few days later, an- targeting authority "to defeat al- people. Al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda- the one "authorising" the measures in August last year. "The cowardly tional human rights groups to in- other US-led military raid took place US President Donald Trump loves Shabab in Somalia" in partnership linked militant group, is the official that can be used in the fight against American enemy planes tried to vestigate. Sometimes local media in Bariire village, 45km from Mog- signing executive orders. During his with the African Union and Somali target of most US drone strikes in al-Shabab in the country. Somalia's strike him," the group said in a state- publish photos and names of the ci- adishu, killing 10 people, including first year in office, he has signed forces. But, in practice, what this Somalia. Its ultimate objective is to constitution clearly states that the ment circulated on social media. vilian victims of US attacks. But children. Again, the Somali govern- dozens of controversial orders on a order did was little more than allow overthrow the government in Mog- country's sovereignty is inviolable. "The first missed him and the sec- even this depends on the victim's ment and the US claimed that they wide variety of subjects, ranging US soldiers to "kill at will" and with adishu and establish a new state in Its legislative and executive branch- ond hit, making him a martyr." Al- clan. If a victim belongs to a minor- only "killed terrorists". This time, from national security to trade.Some impunity within the borders of So- its place. Several African nations es are responsible for the security Shabab leaders do not try to hide ity clan that holds no political pow- however, the victims hailed from of these executive orders, such as malia. This is illegal, immoral and have been battling the armed group of the nation and only they can de- the deaths of the group's command- er, the government will easily dis- an influential clan. Survivors and rel- the ones on the Muslim travel ban counterproductive. for over a decade, but Western na- cide on military action. Without ers and members, because they know miss them as "terrorist sympathis- atives challenged the false official and the Mexican border wall, re- An illegal order tions, including the US, are now their approval, attacks are in viola- that this would be a hard and futile ers". On August 17, 2017, the US claims about the attack. To prove ceived a lot of media attention and The US aerial bombardment of So- overtly leading the fight. In the pro- tion of the nation's sovereignty and task. Information about these launched three precision air strikes their case, family members took an triggered protests around the world. malia started during George Bush's cess, Washington appears to be re- are therefore illegal. The US cites deaths can easily surface through the in the southern town of Jilib. US unprecedented step and transported But many other decisions by the "war on terror", but the number of lying on backdoor dealings and vio- its national interests and security as clans and communities their fight- Africa Command released a state- the victims' bodies to the capital city president, causing death and destruc- civilian casualties was minimal back lating the sovereignty of an inde- a pretext to conduct attacks on al- ers hail from. So, when we see state- ment claiming to have "killed ter- to put them on display. Due to the tion in faraway places like Somalia, then. Since the current US president pendent nation. It is not clear who leged al-Shabab bases in Somalia. No ments by US forces declaring that rorists". However, the victims, sev- pressure, government officials met went considerably unnoticed. Only "relaxed" the rules of engagement, authorises the air and drone strikes one is denying some of those killed they killed dozens of "terrorists" in en of them, were civilians from the relevant clan elders, apologised and weeks after taking office, Trump the number and scope of these at- the US is conducting. Somalia is as result of these strikes are indeed Somalia and hear no confirmation same family. Photos of their bodies agreed to pay compensation. De- signed a directive declaring parts of tacks increased dramatically, lead- not the "failed state" it once was - it al-Shabab fighters, but the vast ma- from al-Shabab leadership about and the remnants of their house spite the solid evidence and a con- Somalia an "area of active hostili- ing to many civilian casualties. Ac- is no longer a playground for unin- jority of the victims are civilians. these deaths, we question the valid- were widely published in Somali firmation from the Somali govern- ties". This declaration relaxed some cording to the Bureau of Investiga- vited foreigners. Today, there's an We know this because al-Shabab usu- ity of US claims about the identities media. But the victims belonged to ment, the US administration still of the rules aimed at preventing ci- tive Journalism, there were 32 to internationally recognised adminis- ally confirms the deaths of its se- of the victims. Most civilian deaths a minority clan that has no power insists that victims of this attack vilian casualties when the US mili- 36 reported US drone strikes in So- tration in Mogadishu with function- nior commanders and fighters. We do not get global attention because and influence in Somalia, and their were not civilians. tary carries out counterterrorism malia between 2001 and 2016. In ing judicial, legislative and execu- have witnessed this when Sheikh Ali the attacks take place in al-Shabab- relatives' desperate plea for justice (Aljazeera)

By Dr. Azeem Ibrahim With such a large number of people a regime with their proven track By Youssef Cherif in such a precarious situation, with record, this is a recipe for disaster. and the party felt apart. The alli- the winter raging on, with medical The calculation in much of the in- ance was, therefore, from the be- The Syrian Civil War is won. The facilities destroyed and with the ex- ternational community, especially ginning, a weak one and based on Today marks the seventh anniver- Damascus government has reassert- pected food shortages, this latest it seems in Western capitals, is that mistrust. The "consensus", which ed control over the majority of Syr- assault by the regime has every letting the Assad regime get on with sary of the fall of Tunisia's dictator was mainly the result of agreements Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. But instead ia’s territory and President Bashar chance of being the worst humani- it and re-establishing authority in between Caid Essebsi and Ennahdha al-Assad is secure in his position. tarian disaster in the conflict yet. the entire country is, at this point, of celebrating, Tunisians are out in leader Rached Ghannouchi, could the streets again. What went wrong? Despite the endless list of humani- And it is not beyond reason to ex- probably going to cause the least not go deep into the constituencies tarian abuses he has presided over pect that it will trigger another re- amount of human suffering. But The dictatorship established in the of the two parties. It remained purely 1950s, which morphed into a po- since 2011, the international com- gional refugee crisis, which will fur- there are two reasons to be weary of nominal. Ministers and members of munity is no longer calling on his ther destabilized an already fragile this. Firstly, the regime has shown lice state in the later decades, banned parliament were disconnected from important not to romanticise pov- politics and pushed citizens away removal and prosecution in inter- and degrading order. But now Assad itself to be punitive and to continue By Sisonke Msimang their bases and many laws and mea- national courts, and no internal Syr- can rest on the assumption that he to be punitive against civilian pop- erty and gloss over the truth in the from their country's public affairs. sures they passed reflected their self- interest of point-scoring. The poor The Tunisian revolution swept ian faction looks likely to be able to has full impunity. His allies, Russia ulations which resisted it even in interest and had limited reach. But challenge his government much and Iran, will see this to the end. regions where it has already re-es- There can be no better illustration people who have been left out of away that closure and created the while weakened as a political party, of the folly of victimhood and out- the "Africa rising" narrative proba- Tunisian homo-politicus. Since Jan- longer. But though the war is won, And they shield him from Western tablished itself. The end of the war Nidaa Tounes remained symbolical- that does not mean it is over. Or censure – weak as it has been in re- will not be the end of the suffering rage than the furore surrounding US bly agree with the overarching sen- uary 2011, Tunisians have become ly strong. For many "secular" Tuni- President Donald Trump's com- timent behind Trump's descriptions incredibly politicised and the polit- that the Assad regime will be mag- cent years. The Idlib assault attests for the majority of the Syrian peo- sians, it is the secular alternative to nanimous in victory. The regime is to this: the region was supposed to ple. And this should come as no sur- ments about poor countries with of their countries. The "Africa as ical system has been opened to all. Ennahdha. For members of the Tu- relatively high rates of migration paradise" social media posts are a Yet what the Revolution did not do currently carrying out operations in be a “de-escalation” zone agreed with prise given the ways in which the nisian bureaucracy, it is the old state- Idlib, the last province still controlled Russia, Iran but also Turkey, who regime treated the people even be- to the United States. In the last few sort of creative non-fiction then. was create a Tunisian homo-eco- party. For the international com- days, the politics of indignation - Of course, the Cape Town skyline is nomicus. The Tunisian economy by the rebels, and eastern Gouta. And maintains peace-keeping forces in fore the Civil War. Regime brutality munity, it is the "modernist" facade the tactics they are using are famil- the region. The attacks are ongoing was indeed one of the main reasons particularly by people generally on beautiful, but we also know that life remained mismanaged. Anger boiled of Tunisia. As for Ennahdha's lead- the progressive side of politics - has in Crossroads or Nyanga or any of over when the political opening iar in their brutality. The first tar- despite the presence of the Turkish why the Civil War started. Second- ership, fearing the local and global gets have been the hospitals. Just as forces. If the regime does not even ly, if the regime does not even at- reached new heights with tweets of the many sprawling townships that reached its limits and that misman- hostility towards Islamism, Nidaa African landscapes and immigrant ring that city, is hard. For people agement was no longer tolerable. they were in Aleppo. From here, we attempt to rebuild legitimacy in the tempt to rebuild legitimacy in the Tounes was a good smokescreen in can expect the same pattern of sys- closing days of this conflict, and closing days of this conflict, and success stories. The drama that has who live in the ghettoes of Port-au- Socioeconomic anger which to hide. The "consensus", as greeted Trump's comments has pro- Prince and Nairobi - yes, life is very, In fact, the economic situation has tematic attacks on civilian targets, continues to brutalize civilian pop- continues to brutalise civilian pop- dysfunctional as it is, remains the and starvation sieges, until the local ulations needlessly, its victory is like- ulations needlessly, its victory is like- vided a disappointing reminder that very hard. The photos on Facebook worsened since 2011. The country's best alternative for two exhausted outrage can be addictive even when exist to address an audience that public debt jumped from 39.2 per- population is beaten into submission. ly to be a short-lived one Meaning- ly to be a short-lived one. The peo- enemies. Therefore, when the Par- Already, in just the last few days ful international response? ple will have been beaten into sub- it is wholly ineffectual. First, let me lives online; they do not actually cent of the GDP in 2010 to 60.6 liament examined the finance law be clear, I am not denying that speak to the reality at the heart of percent in 2016. The Tunisian di- 100,000 people have been pushed Is there at this point in time any mission, but they will be still alive, drafted by the government and large- out their homes – in the middle of atrocity Assad can commit that bitter and angry. That is not a sound Trump's remarks are racist. It has the US president's crude observation. nar, the local currency, lost around ly inspired by the International been patently obvious for many For people who live in the ghettoes 40 percent of its value to the US winter. And what makes the situa- would garner a meaningful interna- basis for any political order. In ei- Monetary Fund (IMF), there was tion in Idlib particularly precarious tional response? As everyone is ther case, the suffering in Syria still years that Trump himself - in his of Port-au-Prince and Nairobi - yes, dollar. Unemployment persisted, very little opposition among the action and pronouncements - is a life is very, very hard. Through their especially among youth (around 35 is that the province has become host looking forward to the conflict be- has no end in sight. And our resigna- "consensus" MPs. They voted for to over 1.1 million internal refu- ing resolved, the tolerance for the tion at Assad’s ongoing humanitari- thoroughgoing racist. There is noth- posts and their protestations, the percent now). The prices of basic the law, but they did not defend it in ing new or shocking about this idea. Outraged signal their moral good- goods have been continually rising. gees from other parts of Syria pre- methods of the regime in their final an abuses makes us complicit in public and could not present it to viously brutalised by the regime. offensives seems boundless. And for them. (Arabnews) I am wondering, however, why any- ness but they do not advance under- Tunisians of all walks of life com- their constituencies. Additionally, one would be offended by the rac- standing of the core problem Trump plain that their living conditions are due to disagreements between Prime ism of a known racist who has prov- points out - which is that we are deteriorating and that they are un- Minister Youssef Chahed and the en himself to be foolish time and living in a moment of profound flux able to make ends meet each month. leadership of the political parties again. He is not unlike other racists and ever-increasing pressures. Even This is the main trigger of today's within his coalition government, - he has power. I am also wondering reasonable, non-racist people can protests. And in a way, it was also communication about the finance why so many of the critiques of arrive at the conclusion that their the trigger of most of the demon- law and its implementation was lim- One in ten USyouth Trump's statement are concerned own lives in wealthy countries are strations the country has witnessed ited. His relationship with the pres- primarily with his racism instead of at risk of being undermined by mi- for the past seven years. What ident is also said to be rather dys- addressing the merits or demerits of gration. sparked this wave of protests is the functional, which adds another lev- the larger debate about the role and People on the left - myself included finance law which came into effect el to the existing deep-rooted crisis. experience homelessness place of migrants in wealthy coun- - may disagree with this conclusion. on January 1. The parliament passed Empty political promises tries like the US. We may point to data that indicate the law last year and although it was The finance law was, furthermore, I am wondering why so few people migrants lift the boat rather than discussed in the media, it did not a blow to many Nidaa Tounes vot- want to address the truth that lies at sink it. We may argue that regard- catch the public's eye. It was only ers' expectations. During the 2014 annually the heart of Trump's statements. It less of the economic merits of mi- when prices went up that people paid electoral campaign, Nidaa Tounes is indeed a fact that millions of poor gration there are other non-tangi- attention. A group of mostly young rallied its supporters with the prom- people who happen to have been ble benefits in the realm of culture, activists launched a protest cam- ise not only to counter the Islamist born in poor parts of the world are art and creativity. We may point paign against the law called "Fech Ennahdha, but also to strengthen By s.e. smith, Care2 well. Educational attainment also searchers see the education, welfare desperate to leave their homes in out there is a strong historical di- Nestanaou" (What are we waiting the state. Its followers saw in this search of opportunities. Poor peo- mension to the present-day exist- for?). They were a few dozens played a contributing role. People and juvenile justice systems as ef- promise the comeback of the strong without high school diplomas were fective points for intervention -- ple do not leave their countries be- ence of "shithole countries", which whose means were limited to tags state as it was under Tunisia's na- Parts of North America are experi- cause of wanderlust: They leave be- were turned into poor places by the on walls and distributing tracts. The encing an extreme cold snap right more likely to report homelessness. especially preventative intervention tionalist leader Habib Bourguiba (in Young parents also struggled with -- to identify at-risk individuals and cause life feels pretty "s***ty". acts and policies of countries like police, unreformed and still work- power 1956-1987). They imagined now, and one vulnerable group of This - it seems - is a more impor- the US. We may talk about colo- ing with the Ben Ali-era methods, people sits on the front lines: the housing issues, highlighting yet an- help them find stable housing. They an idealised past, where the state other obstacle for people who have also comment that it's important tant reality to address than whether nialism and slavery and the histori- harassed, brutalised and arrested would provide jobs, subsidies, social homeless community, with shelters a discredited man who is a known cal and moral debt owed to "shit- (briefly) many of them. A smear struggling to serve people who need children at very young ages. Wheth- to specifically service populations security and so on, coming back. er they're kicked out or can't afford who are much more likely to expe- provocateur has hurt some feelings. hole countries". All of these argu- campaign against the movement Likewise, expectations were high a place to come in from the cold. I personally refuse to be offended ments are part of ongoing debates followed. But because of the latent Unfortunately, that makes the tim- housing that meets their needs, these rience homelessness, and to ac- among those who voted for Ennah- families are left out in the cold. Abuse knowledge that they may have by anything Trump says or does - in the ideological battles currently anger, many people went out dem- dha; many were expecting better ing of a study on youth homeless- he is powerful, but this does not taking place globally. The racism onstrating, independently from ness very apt, as it highlights the and neglect were also common fac- needs that wouldn't be well served distribution of wealth, social welfare tors in cases of homeless youth. by generic care. Additionally, re- change the fact that he is a fool. Trump expresses is part of - but "Fech Nestanaou". Leftist political and more social projects. In reality, extent of the problem for Ameri- Yet I cannot count the number of should not define - these debates. groups, some of them with anarchist can children and teens at a moment Many people think of chronic home- searchers observed that though ru- however, the Nidaa-Tounes-Ennah- lessness when they consider this is- ral and urban homeless rates are quite Facebook posts of beautiful African There are many people who are in- tendencies, joined the movement as da government gradually applied when homeless people are dying on landscapes I have seen, or the range deed opposed to migration on the well. Protests spread in the streets the streets due to the cold. In any sue, and often think specifically of similar, providing services in rural austerity measures, decreased subsi- people living out on the street. But communities is more challenging of tweets listing the number of Amer- basis of unjustified fear. There are of Tunis, Sfax, Jebeniana, Sousse, dies and limited public-sector em- given year, about ten percent of US ican lives African doctors have saved, many others who are opposed to and other cities across the country. youth between the ages of 18 and researchers found that youth in the because of the geographic distribu- ployment. This situation has been study tended to shift frequently be- tion. A strategy for far-flung areas or the number of educated and mor- migration on the basis of reason- Criminal elements managed to take repeating since 2011. Economic 25, and one in 30 13 to 17-year- ally upright people the US benefits able anxieties and concerns about advantage of the situation and there olds, experience some degree of tween housing situations -- they of the United States remains criti- problems lead to popular anger. Pop- might not necessarily be sleeping cally important. At a time when from who come from "shithole" the future. Again, I may not agree were incidents of looting in some ular anger leads to popular revolt. homelessness. That may mean liv- countries. The people posting those with these anxieties, but consigning areas. A political elite without a peo- ing on the street, relying on shelter outside, but they are cycling between some homeless communities feel Political parties exploit that anger unstable places to sleep, which con- under siege, this study should spark messages have been, for the most them to the racist heap is short- ple This latest crisis comes amid a to gain power by means of false services, couch surfing or other sit- part, middle-class Africans and en- sighted and unstrategic if you are larger one which has gripped the uations in which people don't have tributes to stress and makes it hard some thoughtful, fruitful discussion. promises, and then fail to alleviate to stay in school or hold a job. It If your own community is struggling lightened globally aware Western- interested in genuinely changing country since the fall of Ben Ali's the economic problems. It is a vi- a home to call their own, and need ers - the type of people who stay in societies for the better. Whether you regime. The elections of 2014 ele- help finding shelter. This study orig- also makes it harder to track these with a homeless issue, consider ap- cious circle. Solving the current cri- individuals, as traditional homeless proaching officials to have a con- hotels in the nice part of Nairobi, want revolution or incremental re- vated two winners: centrist party sis will not be easy. The angry citi- inated with Chapin Hall, a youth and know where to get the best lattes form - change never comes without Nidaa Tounes and the Islamist En- policy organization at the Univer- survey and count tactics tend to fo- versation about the fact that the zens will hardly accept another se- cus on those living on the street or problem may be broader, and big- in Port-au-Prince. In reality, sig- conversations. Having more fo- nahdha. Nidaa Tounes, whose polit- ries of promises. Suspending the fi- sity of Chicago. Researchers inter- nificant parts of the countries these cused, less reactionary conversa- ical campaign was built on counter- viewed 26,000 people over a two- in shelters, passing over people with ger, than they realize. What kinds nance law may help calm the more nebulous situations. The re- of programs does your community indignant "progressive" people are tions about the nature and roots of ing Ennahdha, accepted to form an streets, but it will slow down the year period to get a better under- posting about are, in fact, terrible global migration patterns is crucial. alliance with the latter. This led to a standing of how many people are searchers note that it's critical for have for youth? Does your commu- economy even more. The govern- youth to have access to both hous- nity have a system for identifying places to live for poor people. Of Addressing the appalling conditions general disappointment among the ment might be sacked and Caid Es- homeless, and why. Many youth re- course, there is joy and humour and in which the vast majority of peo- party grassroots and a wave of res- ported that they were kicked out of ing and support services, and that at-risk children and young adults and sebsi and Ghannouchi might agree these need to be tailored to the de- providing them with services? Are grit and determination in even the ple live is even more important to ignations ensued. Then, when the on appointing another prime min- their homes, and LGBTQ youth poorest places - and there is no ques- me as a citizen of a country that is party leader Beji Caid Essebsi left were much more likely to be home- velopmental needs of specific indi- support services flexible enough to ister, but that would mean perpetu- viduals. This is not a situation with accommodate people with a range tion that the word "shithole" is dis- on Trump's "shithole" list. This ur- the party to become president of ating the vicious cycle. less. Youth of color, especially black missive and tacky - much like the gency is not new, and it has nothing Tunisia, a succession crisis erupted and Latinx youth, are at high risk as a one-size-fits-all solution. The re- of needs? (Aljazeera) (Truthout) man who uttered it. However, it is to do with Trump. TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Russia is in possession of an underwater nuclear drone capable of carry- ing a 100-megaton nuclear warhead, a recently leaked draft of the Penta- gon's Nuclear Posture Review confirmed. The weapon, referred to in the document as an “AUV,” or autonomous underwater vehicle, is featured in a chart that lays out Russia's multiple nuclear delivery vehicles. Pentagon officials warn in the posture review that Russia has actively diversified its nuclear capabilities, a strategic advantage it has over the United States: In addition to modernizing ‘legacy’ Soviet nuclear sys- tems, Russia is developing and deploying new nuclear warheads and launchers. These efforts include multiple upgrades for every leg of the Russian nuclear triad of strategic bombers, sea-based missiles and land- based missiles. Russia is also developing at least two new intercontinen- tal range systems, a hypersonic glide vehicle and a new intercontinental, nuclear-armed undersea autonomous torpedo. The draft of the posture review was obtained and published by the Huffington Post. In a state- ment, the Pentagon did not deny that the draft is authentic: Our discus- sion has been robust and several draft have been written. However, the Nuclear Posture Review has not been completed and will ultimately be reviewed and approved by the President and the Secretary of Defense. As a general practice, we do not discuss pre-decisional, draft copies of strategies and reviews. As outlined by Valerie Insinna of Defense News, the Russian undersea drone, officially known as Ocean Multipurpose System Status-6 and nicknamed "Kanyon" by the Pentagon, was re- portedly tested in Nov. 2016. It was launched from a Sarov-class sub- marine used to test and validate new tech, as reported by the Washing- ton Free Beacon reported in Dec. 2016, citing unnamed Pentagon sourc- es. The Pentagon had not publicly confirmed the existence of Status-6 prior to Huffington Post's report on this year's posture review. Accord- ing to Russian media outlets cited by the Washington Bureau, Status-6 has a range of 6,200 miles, a top speed in excess of 56 knots and can descend to depths of 3,280 feet below sea level. It was built by Rubin Design Bureau, the largest submarine manufacturer in Russia. It was designed to be launched from at least two different classes of nuclear submarines, including the Oscar-class, which can carry four Status-6 drones at a time. The Yuri Dolgoruky, a Russian nuclear submarine, is seen near the northern city of Severodvinsk, Russia, on July 2, 2009. The Knyaz Vladimir is the first of five nuclear-powered submarines that Moscow believes will upgrade its navy. The nuclear posture review reaffirms the need for a full nuclear triad, or a full range of air, sea, and ground-based nuclear missiles. But, as noted by Defense News, the review offers "no sign that the Pentagon is interested in developing unmanned undersea vehicles capable of delivering a nuclear weapon." (AP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin nuclear weapons, developing bal- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has called for additional mea- Netanyahu has urged French Pres- listic missiles, supporting terror, sures to keep the situation on the line of contact [between the armed forces of Nagorno Karabakh and Azerbaijan] calm. “I think it’s impor- ident Emmanuel Macron to inter- regional aggression and the cruel tant to take additional measures to make the situation on the line of vene to amend the nuclear agree- repression of Iranian citizens.” In contact calmer. This would help move towards a political settlement,” ment between Iran and the world the same context, the American Lavrov told a press conference, TASS reported. The Foreign Minister powers. On the other hand, lead- Israel Public Affairs Committee considers that the Karabakh issue “cannot be solved once and for all ers of the Jewish Israeli Lobby in (AIPAC) said Saturday it appre- with a single document.” “We need a step-by-step approach that will the US welcomed President ciates Washington imposing addi- reflect the agreement on the avenues of working on issues that require Donald Trump’s decision to pro- tional sanctions on Iranian individ- additional discussion with a view of reaching a final settlement, includ- ceed with the nuclear deal and to uals and entities, as well as ing the status of Nagorno Karabakh,” Lavrov said. impose additional sanctions on Trump’s efforts to address the Iran. Netanyahu’s spokesperson shortcomings of the nuclear deal said that his phone call with Ma- with Tehran. AIPAC demanded to 56 forensic scientists caught WASHINGTON — Across the planes under cover of darkness in ward what some officials said ulti- cron came a day after Trump de- apply additional pressure on the military, officers and troops are an exercise that simulated a for- mately could be the formation of a manded that European partners Iranian regime to end its regional tuberculosis in Kazakhstan in quietly preparing for a war they eign invasion. Next month, at Army Korea-based task force similar to work with Washington to “fix the aggression, illicit ballistic missile hope will not come. At Fort Bragg posts across the United States, the types that are fighting in Iraq deal's disastrous flaws, or the Unit- program and suppression of the in North Carolina last month, a mix more than 1,000 reserve soldiers and Syria. Others said the plan was ed States will withdraw.” In his rights of its citizens. “We contin- past 5 years conversation with Macron, Net- ue to urge the administration and 56 forensic scientists have caught tuberculosis in Kazakhstan in the of 48 Apache gunships and Chi- will practice how to set up so-called strictly related to counterterrorism nook cargo helicopters took off in mobilization centers that move mil- efforts. In the world of the Amer- anyahu said that “Trump's re- the Congress to work together to past 5 years, said Nurdlan Abdirov, Majilis deputy. marks should be taken seriously, implement a comprehensive, bi- "Besides high responsibility and psycho-emotional loading, the activi- an exercise that practiced moving itary forces overseas in a hurry. ican military, where contingency troops and equipment under live And beginning next month with the planning is a mantra drummed into and whoever wants to keep the partisan strategy that encounters ty of forensic scientists is associated with risk of HIV, AIDS, tubercu- nuclear deal would be wise to fix Iran’s malign behavior and ensure losis, hepatitis C and other diseases. In the past 5 years 56 scientists, artillery fire to assault targets. Two Winter Olympics in the South the psyche of every officer, the days later, in the skies above Ne- Korean town of Pyeongchang, the moves are ostensibly part of stan- it.” He also told Macron that the that it will never be able to acquire nurses and hospital attendants caught tuberculosis, 26- different forms free world should “strongly con- nuclear weapons," added the state- of hepatitis," he said at the Governmental hour. "No one is insured from vada, 119 soldiers from the Ar- Pentagon plans to send more Spe- dard Defense Department training my’s 82nd Airborne Division para- cial Operations troops to the Ko- and troop rotations. demn the five crimes of the Iranian ment. dangerous viruses. After unification of centers of forensic medicine and regime,” listing “efforts to obtain (BBC) forensic expertise additional payments were cancelled for working with chuted out of C-17 military cargo rean Peninsula, an initial step to- (BBC) cadaveric materials and persons infected with HIV, AIDS. The Govern- ment has not resolved on the payment for this," he said. No document prohibits use Study finds that of smartphones at schools in Kazakhstan: MES global warming There is no document in Kazakhstan prohibiting smart phones at schools, said Sholpan Karinova, director of department of school and secondary education of the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan. exacerbates "It is not in the competence of the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan. In general, there is no document prohibiting use of the phones at schools," she said on the sidelines of the Government. She reminded there are internal regulations at schools which give the refugee crises right to schools to introduce certain rules. (Trend) Russia may 'undertake SOCAR, IBM create measures' after US decision on border force in Syria joint venture Russia and its partners will under- website published an article, in led coalition] stands in direct con- Azerbaijan’s state oil company SOCAR and IBM, the US multi- take measures as a response to the which the spokesman of the US- frontation [with Russia’s inter- US-led coalition's decision to cre- led coalition fighting against the ests], and we and our colleagues national technology company, have established a joint venture ate the so-called "Border Security Islamic State (Daesh) terrorist will certainly undertake certain called Caspian Innovation Center LLC, SOCAR said in a mes- Force" on the Syrian territory con- group said that the coalition was measures on stabilization of the sage posted on its website Jan. 15. The joint venture was creat- trolled by the Syrian Democratic engaged in a training of a 30,000- situation in Syria," Shamanov said ed for the purpose of building and operating a competitive ana- Forces militia, Chairman of the strong force on the territory with- when asked whether such actions lytics and delivery center to provide IT, business transforma- Defense Committee of Russia’s in Syria currently controlled by of the US-led coalition intersected tion and business consulting services in Azerbaijan, the Caspi- State Duma Vladimir Shamanov SDF to maintain security in con- with the interests of Russia in Syr- an Region and other countries. “The SOCAR-IBM joint venture told Sputnik on Sunday. On Sat- trolled area along the Syrian bor- ia. The refugee crisis – particularly in the Mediterranean area – has re- will offer its services to SOCAR and other companies in the urday, the Defense Post news der. "[Such a behavior by the US- (CNN) ceived large amounts of new attention in the past few years, with people fleeing from Syria and entering the European Union emblematic region, in order to facilitate digital business transformation and of the problem. There has been some research connecting this refugee boost the efficiency of production in the energy industry and problem with changes to the climate. In particular, the years preceding across sectors,” the message said. “The transformation pro- the Syrian refugee crisis were characterized by a severe drought that gram will bring the best-practice processes and technology from Palestinian president Abbas reduced farm output and led to economic and social strife there. Sepa- IBM to Azerbaijan and region. The joint venture will set a basis rating out the influences of climate change from general social instabil- for practical solutions and IT-related analytics in Azerbaijan, ity may be impossible, because they are intimately linked. But we do thus essentially contributing to the development of the human to Trump: Shame on You know that climate change can cause social and economic instability. We capital.” This strategic partnership will engage SOCAR’s indus- also know that these instabilities can boil over into larger problems that Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas said Sunday President Donald Trump ought to be ashamed of himself for lead to mass exodus. The problem isn’t knowing the connection be- try expertise and IBM’s digital, cognitive computing and data saying the Palestinians rejected peace talks. In a two-hour rebuke of Trump's Palestinian policy, Abbas told the science capabilities in building differentiated industry solutions Palestinian Central Council — the Palestinian Liberation Organization's decision-making body — he will no tween climate and refugees exists – rather the problem is quantifying it. and competencies in the region, according to the message. Based longer accept the U.S. as a peace mediator. "We can say no to anyone if things are related to our fate and our All of this is important because we want to be able to plan for the people, and now we have said no to Trump," Abbas raged. "We told him the 'deal of the century' was the slap of “now” as well as the “tomorrow.” If we are already seeing climate- on the reached agreement, the SOCAR-IBM joint venture may related migrations, can you imagine what’s in store in the next few expand its activities into other business intensive areas, such as the century. But we will slap back." Abbas has called for an internationally negotiated peace process instead of one led by the United States. Trump has frequently called a Middle East peace treaty "the deal of the century." But his decades as temperatures and extreme weather continue to increase? A in new geographies or with various customers. administration's efforts to revive the long moribund peace talks have so far gone nowhere. Trump has threatened very recent publication appearing in the journal Science investigates (Akpress) to cut off hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to the Palestinians. (AP) this complex subject. TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

The world economy is gaining tion. The IMF said it expected glo- strength but structural issues such bal GDP to advance by 3.6 per as weak wage growth and rapid cent in 2017 and 3.7 per cent in asset appreciation need to be ad- 2018, a 0.1 percentage point in- rein in credit expansion to mini- na was to ensure that its role of West of the value of free trade and dressed, an IMF official said on crease for both years from previ- mise risks of a sharp slowdown. generating growth and financing ensure that it's also doing its best Monday. "The bottom line is that ous forecasts. While generally up- "The signs point to faster growth remains on a path that is both ben- to comply. "At the same time, we the cyclical recovery in the global beat, the IMF warned however in across all regions," said Mr Lip- eficial for it and the global econo- believe that effective and credible economy is going from strength to its global economic outlook that ton. "That said, we must also rec- my. China can do this by continu- leadership in support of globalisa- strength," IMF first deputy man- years of cheap financing had ognise that the global economy is ing to re-balance growth towards tion also requires a willingness to aging direct David Lipton said in a stretched asset valuations, which in a late stage of the long and grad- consumption as well as safeguard- recognise and address one's own speech to the Asian Financial Fo- means that some markets should ual recovery from the global finan- ing financial stability by reining in shortcomings," he said. "That rum. In October, the IMF boosted be watched closely by economic cial crisis. With economic slack in credit growth to make sure it means China should be open to its forecasts for global growth for policy makers. The fund also advanced economies is diminish- doesn't undermine economic and look at its own restrictions on trade Japanese stocks brushed-off central bank had decided to include 2017 but said that many countries warned that policy makers in Chi- ing, it is not clear how long the social progress, he said. It should and investment, which have gen- strength in the yen on Monday, the yuan in its reserves, although were plagued by lacklustre produc- na, the world's second biggest econ- good news will continue." Mr Lip- also continue to promote globali- erated criticism from some trading but their Chinese peers were not he declined to specify the exact tivity as evidenced by weak infla- omy, and elsewhere would need to ton said the key challenge for Chi- sation despite scepticism in the partners. (AP) quite as lucky. Thus, the Nikkei- amount. Dombret also took aim at 225 managed to eke out a gain of talk that the Chinese yuan was 'un- 0.26% to 23,714.88, even as dol- dervalued'. "On the contrary, the lar/yen fell 0.38% to 110.622. The price competitiveness of the Chi- Shanghai Stock Exchange's Com- nese economy is estimated to be BankofJapanGovernor offers posite Index on the other hand de- rather low and from that perspec- clined 0.54% to 3,410.49 after the tive accusations of an undervalued country's central bank raised its RMB, they are actually not war- optimismoneconomy daily reference rate for the yuan ranted," he said. In parallel, Hong by the most in three months. The Kong's Hang Seng Index broke its People's Bank of China's decision 14-session winning streak, dipping Governor Haruhiko Kuroda offered change from three months ago when makers are gradually changing their saw the onshore yuan rise by as 0.23% to 31,338.87, having clam- a positive view on the economy he said core consumer prices were tone." Kuroda also said a moder- much as 0.81% against the US dol- bered past its previous record and inflation on Monday, sending around zero. "The economy is ex- ate economic expansion now un- lar to 6.4138. That followed news, highs, reached in October 2007, at the yen to a fourth-month high pected to continue expanding der way will help accelerate infla- on 12 January, that the country's one point during the session. Thai against the dollar on simmering moderately," he added, reiterating tion toward the BOJ's 2 per cent foreign trade surplus had grown by and Vietnamese stocks were among speculation the central bank could his optimism on prospects for a target, signalling its desire to main- a further 13% in 2017 to reach the session's best performers, with withdraw stimulus earlier than ex- sustained recovery. The comments tain the status quo on monetary $291bn. On a related note, speak- the SET 50 adding 1.03% to pected. Financial markets ignored sent the dollar falling as low as policy for the time being. In the ing from Hong Kong on Monday, 1,187.92 and the HNX index up Kuroda's reminder that the BOJ 110.58 yen , as some traders quarterly report, the BOJ raised Bundesbank board member An- by 1.05% to 122.03. will maintain its massive stimulus bought the yen on expectations the its assessment for three of Japan's dreas Dombret told Bloomberg the (AP) in a sign of how nervous investors BOJ could dial back stimulus ear- nine regional economies and main- have become on when it might fol- lier than expected — a view that tained its rosy view for the remain- low the footsteps of other central heightened after a slight cut in its ing six regions. The central bank banks in dialing back crisis-mode debt purchases last week. "Kuro- said two regions were seeing their stimulus. The BOJ also offered its da's change in language merely re- economies "expanding," the first Turkish most optimistic view on regional flects recent price gains, but peo- time it has used such an upbeat areas of Japan in nearly a decade ple have become sensitive to even assessment for as many regions in a quarterly report, underscoring the subtlest difference since the since April 2007. Kimihiro Eto, its conviction a broadening recov- BOJ cut bond purchases," said head of the BOJ's Osaka branch in government ery will help accelerate inflation Shuji Tonouchi, senior market western Japan, said winter cloth- to its ambitious 2 per cent target. economist at Mitsubishi UFJ ing sold well and households were Kuroda said in a speech to Morgan Stanley Securities. "Mem- becoming more willing to spend on considering BOJ regional branch managers that bers of the government are also luxury items. "There's room for core consumer inflation was "mov- making more positive comments consumption to rise more," he told ing around 1 per cent," a slight about escaping deflation. Policy- a news conference. (BBC) new incentives Strengthening for youth Sri Lankan SMEs in employment: exports vital for development: Minister The economy of the Gaza Strip is on the verge of total collapse, Israeli Eran security officials have warned. According to Israeli daily Haaretz, secu- rity officials and military officers have voiced concern about the deteri- Sri Lanka’s plans to increase the orating situation in the Palestinian territory. One security officer said contribution made by smaller-scale Gaza’s economy was “like from zero to below zero,” the newspaper businesses to exports and lift for- reported on Jan. 15. Haaretz said Israeli politicians were acting as if eign direct investment (FDI) in military pressure can continue on Gaza, ignoring the worsening eco- 2018 were both topics of conver- nomic situation in the strip. “In the long term, continually deteriorating sation at a meeting held recently infrastructure brings the risk of an uncontrollable blow-up in the Strip,” between Eran Wickramaratne, the daily said. The newspaper pointed out that the number of trucks state minister of finance, and a team crossing the Kerem Shalom crossing between Gaza and Israel dropped from Oxford Business Group by half due to the decline in the purchasing power of the Palestinians (OBG). During the talks, Wickra- living in Gaza. It said about 95 percent of Gaza’s water was undrinkable maratne said the budget for 2018 and that unemployment was inching toward 50 percent and was even included measures aimed at bol- higher among young people. Home to nearly two million Palestinians, stering support for small and me- the Gaza Strip has been reeling under a crippling siege by Israel since dium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as 2007. part of broader plans to hand them a bigger role in Sri Lanka’s econom- ic development. “The 2018 bud- get focuses on encouraging invest- ments in exports. However, at the Bloomberg:despiteRomania’sfastest-growing moment, a few big companies ac- The Turkish government is con- tive employees in line with their count for 90% of all earnings from sidering new measures to encour- own needs. We will help young international sales,” he told OBG’s economy,citizens arenot becomingricher age companies to employ more people get training in the fields they team. “It is vital, therefore, to young people, Labor and Social choose,” she said. As part of the strengthen SMEs in exports so that An analysis by Bloomberg shows that while the Romanian GDP has Security Minister Jülide Sariero- new scheme, companies employ- earnings are dispersed and the risks grown at the fastest rate in the European Union, the wealth level of glu has announced. “We need to ing one to three workers will be from exposure are reduced.” Wick- citizens has not changed since five years ago. The country’s wealth is create new employment opportu- encouraged to hire people between ramaratne added that the budget calculated as citizens’ net assets as a share of disposable income. Ac- nities to bring down the jobless the ages 18 and 25, Sarieroglu add- was drawn up with the aim of cording to the feature, Romanians tend to spend their money on essen- rate. We are focusing more on peo- ed. “Under the new scheme, Iskur playing to the country’s strengths. tials like food or clothes, and people who have money left over use it ple aged between 18 and 25,” Sari- will pay the first month’s wage, “Sri Lanka has a favourable geo- for holidays or gadgets rather than investments in long-term assets eroglu said on Jan. 14 while ad- social security premium and taxes graphical location, which allows it such as real estate. Experts warn that although there is currently a dressing the local youth branch of of the newly employed,” she said. to act as a logistics hub between boom in the Romanian economy, people should not see it as something the ruling Justice and Development According to latest data from the two huge markets, namely China permanent and limit their indebtedness, as it is most likely not sustain- Party (AKP) in Ankara. Iskur, the Turkish Statistical Institute and India,” he said. “It also has a able – “a correction is inevitable” says Florian Libocor, economist at state employment agency, will not (TÜIK) released on Jan. 15, youth well-educated human resource BRD. Bloomberg points out that the economy already shows signs of hold vocational courses anymore, unemployment rate dropped to base, despite its small size.” On a slow-down, as inflation has increased significantly and the central the minister said. “Instead, we’ll 19.3 percent in October 2017 from the subject of FDI, Wickramarat- bank has already begun to raise interest rates. provide companies an opportuni- 21.2 percent a year earlier. ne acknowledged that While FDI (Reuters) ty to provide training to prospec- (BBC) had fallen below expectation in the last couple of years we expect FDI to nearly double in 2017 over 2016? Attracting FDI for key sec- Govt mulls divesting Air India employees ahead of stake sale tors, such as ICT, tourism and min- The government is exploring a new option of first divesting Air India ey. It is also not known what bidders will offer for a carrier sans em- ing, is seen as pivotal in Sri Lan- employees through voluntary retirement package and shifting those ployees and scaled down fleet of aircraft. Air India has also lost much of ka’s efforts to make the transition unwilling to opt out to other public sector enterprises, to ward off its earlier goodwill with the entry of private carriers. The government to knowledge-based economy. “I employee resistance to the airline's divestment, reports quoting official has now allowed foreign direct investment of up to 49 per cent in the expect FDI in 2018 to register in- sources said. As the government is expected to absorb most of the debt-laden carrier, as part of Its efforts to ensure a smooth divestment creased growth, taking account of airline's Rs50,000-crore debt, which is the main stumbling block in the and a group of ministers are weighing various options. the EU’s generalised scheme. divestment process, the airline will be staying afloat on taxpayers' mon- (WP) TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Daisy Shah attended Umang 2018 looking absolutely gorgeous in a Dolly J outfit styled by Trisha Jani. Daisy wore a shade of white. Daisy made her Bollywood debut with Salman Khan's 'Jai Ho!' and will also next be seen with him in 'Race 3'. (Santa Banta)

Yami Gautam looks refreshingly pretty at a recent event held in Mumbai last evening. The actress was seen donning a pale pink satin doll dress with side bows. She paired the dress with unusual heels which were perfectly going with the outfit. Yami opted for a mini- malistic makeup and perfect wavy hairdo that made her look classy as ever. The actress was all smiles as she judged the finale of Times Fresh Face 2017. Yami tweeted sharing, "Had a total blast judging these super talented & coolest lot for @TimesFreshFace! Loved the energy & confidence around ????". Yami has time and again treat- ed the masses with her elegant and classy styling. On the work front, the Kaabil actress will next be seen in Batti Gul Meter Chalu. (Santa Banta)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi gested by the Censor Board as Adtiyanath is non-committal on Padmaavat. The chief minister had ooks like Aamir Khan and Katrina Kaif are the release of the controversial film said, “No one has the right to take really sweating it out for much-awaited Thugs ‘Padmaavat’ in the state. The San- the law into own hands whether it Lof Hindostan. Today, the film’s lead actor Katrina shared a jay Leela Bhansali movie is set for is Sanjay Leela Bhansali or any- picture with Aamir and Prabhudeva as they rehearse for a song When Shilpa Shinde won Bigg Boss the best dressed, did not mince release on January 25. “I am not a one else. I feel that if those threat- for the movie. The photograph shows Aamir taking a selfie with 11, one question that baffled Hina words and even fought back with future teller,” was his cryptic re- ening (the actors of the film) are Katrina and ace choreographer Prabhudeva. The film’s official Khan's legion of fans was how gusto after her dull and weak mo- ply when mediapersons asked him guilty, Bhansali is no less guilty.” Twitter handle also shared the first image from the dance re- their idol could not win the show ments. No other contestant in this on Sunday whether the movie He had also said that if there is hearsals. The movie is being directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya even though she provided so much season gave such classy dramatic would be screened in Uttar any action, “It will be against both and marks the second collaboration of the director with Aamir spice. To get to the bottom of this, value to the show as she did," re- Pradesh. During an earlier visit the sides.” On threats being issued and Katrina, first being Dhoom 3. The film brings together the we asked Bollywood's only PR marks Dale, who has handled the here in November last year, Adity- to eliminate actors, Adityanath had Dangal star and Amitabh Bachchan on the silver screen for the guru Dale Bhagwagar who had un- PR for a full 20 contestants who anath had said that Bhansali was said, “Everyone should respect the first time. The film is scheduled to release on November 7. expectedly spoken in Hina's favour have been on earlier seasons of Bigg no less guilty than those issuing feelings of each other. And I feel at a time when the entire media as Boss. He has also looked after the threats to actors and others in- that if everyone has good thoughts well as people from the television media for Shilpa Shetty during Big volved with the film and asserted and intentions, there would be industry were speaking against her. Brother. "When the media and that if there is any action, “it will amity in society.” Gujarat has be- It can be recalled that after Twitterati attacked her so badly, I be against both the sides”. Lashing come the third state after Madhya some of Hina's scandalous com- felt sorry for Hina and the PR cri- out at the film-maker, he had said Pradesh and Rajasthan - all ruled ments on BB11, the media was sis she had fallen into. After all, that Bhansali was “habitual of play- by the BJP - to block the contro- claiming that she had tarnished her she was doing so much inside. But ing with public sentiments”. The versial Bollywood movie. Starring image and reputation. It branded the entire burden of carrying on state government has said it would Deepika Padukone as Rani Pad- her a PR disaster. Hina was attract- the hype was falling on her shoul- not allow the movie’s release till mavati, Shahid Kapoor as Maha- ing brickbats not only from the ders. From a PR point of view, it certain “controversial portions” rawal Ratan Singh and Ranveer media and Twitterati, but also from was a highly unfair situation for are removed. The movie, which Singh as Alauddin Khilji, the film top TV celebs such as former BB- any celebrity. She created a wave was earlier titled Padmavati, will was mired into controversy after winner Gauhar Khan and televi- but couldn't ride it," analyses the now be released worldwide on Jan- Rajput Karni Sena raised objections sion superstar Sakshi Tanwar. public relations expert. True that! uary 25 with the title change sug- over the content of the film. "Hina was frank, the most stylish, For a show like Bigg Boss.

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan has ranked number 1 in the List of Most Handsome Actors in the Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty summoned World. The list is a feature by World's Top Most. The list also hosts Bollywood Actor Salman for casteist comment Khan at Number 5 position. Hrithik emerges as the Most Handsome Actor of 2018 in the Bollywood actor Salman Khan and actress Shilpa Shetty have World, beating International reportedly been summoned by the deputy SP of Rajasthan’s Churu names like Robert Pattinson, Tai- district, Hukum Singh, for allegedly using ‘Bhangi’ word in a wan actor Godfrey Gao, Chris derogatory way and hurting the sentiments of Valmiki communi- Evans, David Boreanaz, Cana- dian star Noah Mills, Henry ty. Film analyst Komal Nahta has also been summoned in this Cavill, Tom Hiddleston and Sam regard. Last month, a complaint was also registered against the Heughan. actors in connection with the matter, in Mumbai. The National The list accounts the actors Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) had also sought re- for their look, global fan follow- plies from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and the ing, Box office worth and Brand police commissioners of Delhi and Mumbai over the issue after it endorsements. Hrithik Roshan received a complaint from an ex-chairman of the Delhi Commis- earlier has bagged titles lile Sexi- sion for Safai Karamcharis, Harnam Singh. est Asian Man, Hottest Man on Salman Khan had used the word during the promotion of his the planet, closer home the actor is regarded as the 'Greek God' of film Tiger Zinda Hai, while referring to his dancing skills. Shilpa Bollywood. had reportedly used the word to describe how she looks at home. (Santa Banta) (Tribune) TUESDAY. JANUARY 16, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Losing Emre Can would be a big of contract this summer and is free think he's a fantastic player, with Coutinho's sale made. Juventus are opened the scoring for Liverpool blow to Liverpool if the midfield- to negotiate a pre-contract agree- personality and character. I think a clever club, they sign intelligent at Anfield, and is beginning to im- er was to join Juventus in the sum- ment with a foreign club, having he brings a lot to this Liverpool players who are shrewd and know press following his move from mer, insists Gary Neville. Juven- entered the final six months of his team in terms of character. "That the game. I know there's a mixed Arsenal in the summer. Neville tus have offered Germany inter- current deal. Neville, speaking af- three in midfield and the three up reception on Merseyside to Can says the England international has national Can a five-year contract, ter Can put in a fine showing in front were brilliant in the first half. in terms of how good he is, and the tenacity required to earn plau- according to Sky in Italy, and Sky Liverpool's 4-3 win over Manches- They set the tone for how you I've even had debates with Jamie dits on Merseyside, and praised Sports News understands the 23- ter City on Super Sunday, believes could play against Man City if Carragher. "He looks like he has his showing during Sunday's dra- year-old has reached an agreement the loss would be more detrimen- you've got that energy and ability authority on the pitch, and there matic win. "I said that I thought in principle to join the Italian cham- tal than many would think. He told to know how to press. "It's a big aren't many of those characters Liverpool would either make or pions in the summer following the Gary Neville Podcast: "The blow for Liverpool. It won't make around in the game." Summer sign- break him," Neville said. talks earlier this month. Can is out news about Can leaving, for me, I the headlines that (Philippe) ing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Sky Sport)

Chris Paisley won his first European Tour title with an tion. "I just played great, I played impressive three-stroke victory at the BMW SA Open. out of my skin. I didn't think I was The Englishman carded a faultless six-under 66 at Glen- capable of playing that well to be dower Golf Club to extend his overnight slender one-shot honest. "I can't say enough about lead and pull away from nearest challenger Branden Grace. how good a job she did all week. It Paisley, playing alongside Grace, was made to work for the is her first time as a caddie and she victory by the eight-time European Tour winner with 23- didn't put a foot wrong. I can't thank year-old South African JC Ritchie in third position - a ca- her enough." Paisley birdied two reer-best finish on the European Tour. "I just can't believe it of his opening four holes but his to be honest," Paisley, who was also full of praise for wife strong beginning only saw him "While England’s Test and caddie Keri, told Sky Sports at the trophy presenta- head to the fifth tee level. side may have lacked the tools to compete in Aus- tralian conditions, the Joshuavs Parker:Fight comes at right time white-ball team have no for both world heavyweight champions such problems." This engrossing world heavy- in the same way as Joshua's win weight title unification fight is com- over Wladimir Klitschko sky-rock- ing at the right time for Joshua, eted him onto a higher platform. but be warned - it also suits Park- Parker will travel 11,500 miles er. A fellow unbeaten world title across the world because he be- holder, over two years younger and lieves nobody has seen how good hungry, stands in the way of 28- he really is. Joshua won all 10 year-old Joshua's hunt for a third rounds of his last defence before out of four belts. Parker is no lamb finishing off Takam, who was fet- to the slaughter; he, like Joshua, ed for his toughness, but Parker does not know how to lose. Some- will also trust his chin and will un- one will be dealt a harsh truth that doubtedly threaten more offen- they didn't know about them- sively. Parker may also have smiled selves, and Joshua is accustomed wryly at the memory of his own to being the bearer of bad news to 12-round decision win against his challengers. Parker is much Takam 16 months ago - at the time more dangerous than Carlos his punch power was queried but, Takam, Joshua's most recent vic- in hindsight, that was a more-than- tim, and benefits from the naivety respectable result for a 24-year- of his youth and relative inexperi- old prospect at the time. At 6'4'' ence. What he doesn't know can't Parker isn't the biggest of heavy- hurt him. Parker is unbeaten in 24 weights, as Joshua has noted him- fights, three for the WBO heavy- self, but he weighed just 7lbs less weight title, but still requires a than his rival at their most-recent standout name on his record, much weigh-ins. (Sky Sport) If Australia had any thoughts that bouncer with a back-of-a-length this one-day series would simply delivery that rushed Warner and be a continuation of the Ashes, they had him up on his toes again. By were relieved of that notion the ball three the pressure was begin- moment Mark Wood's first ball ning to tell. A short delivery out- Belinda Bencic shocks Venus Williams whistled past David Warner's nose. side off-stump, the kind Warner Wood's opening burst was quicker would usually power away with and fierier than anything the Aus- glee, was prodded tentatively into in Australian Open first round tralian batsmen have faced this the covers, the ball hanging in the winter and must surely, and swift- air and narrowly evading the grasp Venus Williams' bid to win a first Australian Open title was ended by unseeded Swiss Belinda Bencic on an ly, have brought about the realisa- of Eoin Morgan as he leapt high eventful opening day in the women's draw in Melbourne. The 37-year-old American, who lost to sister Serena tion that while England's Test side and to his right. Warner pushed the in the final last year, enjoyed great success on the Grand Slam stage in 2017 but the in-form Bencic underlined may have lacked the tools to com- fourth ball to mid-on, was keen for her credentials as a future world No 1 with a polished performance - securing a 6-3 7-5 victory in one hour and pete in Australian conditions, the a single that was never on and was 53 minutes. Bencic, back to full fitness after two years impacted by injury, came into the new season on the white-ball team have no such prob- sent back by Finch, tasked with back of a 15-match winning run and partnered compatriot Roger Federer to Hopman Cup success earlier this lems. Aaron Finch may have given facing England's fearsome fast month. Bencic, a former top-10 player at 18, started the stronger of the two in the second match on Rod Laver early notice of what was to come bowler once more - and that was Arena and made a mockery of her world No 78 ranking to secure the first break of the match in the seventh by thumping a pair of boundaries all it would be. Wood charged in, game before a rain delay forced an interruption to the encounter. The Swiss 20-year-old held serve from deuce off Chris Woakes in the first over, hit the pitch hard and before Warn- on the resumption before she secured a second break on her way to the opening set. The hard-hitting pair but Wood was all over Warner er had time to adjust the ball had exchanged early breaks in the second set and, despite Bencic seeing two break points at 3-4 go a begging, she from the off. The Aussie left-hand- reared up from just short of a length showed immense composure in the final game to break Williams' serve once more to secure her first victory er loves nothing more than to and thudded into the shoulder of over her American opponent after four previous meetings. There was further disappointment for American stamp his authority on an innings his bat. The ball looped up, Joe hopes with the exits of US Open champion Sloane Stephens and CoCo Vandeweghe to Zhang Shuai and Timea early on, but for the five balls he Root jogged in from slip and Babos respectively. was at the crease, Wood was the pouched a simple catch to send (BBC Sport) authority. He followed up his Australia's most dangerous.

Association Sport: "Everything has gone to plan. He's got just All appears in place for Un De Sceaux to attempt to become the a small piece of work on Tuesday or Wednesday and that will be first three-time winner of the Clarence House Chase at Ascot on it - he usually travels over on the Thursday. "There might be a Saturday. Willie Mullins' 10-year-old was a popular winner of bit of rain on Tuesday and some more on Saturday, which would the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival last March but be welcome. "If the ground is soft, our lad goes such a pace the drops back to just over two miles for the Grade One he has won others can't cope. I've always said the perfect ground for Un De twice before. Un De Sceaux has only been seen once this cam- Sceaux is just the right side of raceable. "The last week is always paign to date, when making a winning reappearance in the Hilly a worry. If anything happens now, a stone bruise or something, Way Chase at Cork on ground so heavy the meeting was called you haven't time to recover. "The first step is getting him on the off not long after his race. Part-owner Colm O'Connell told Press boat." (BBC Sport) TUESDAY . JANUARY 16. 2018-Jadi 26, 1396 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 170 Price: Afs.20

AT News Report the arrested man was sent to Kabul accused people were sentenced to for investigation. He did not prison. Officials had earlier KABUL: A senior official in Herat identify the detained person, but accused Iran of having hands province was arrested by the said he previously held important behind insecurity in the western intelligence operatives on the charge government post in the adjacent provinces, saying Tehran is arming AT News Report Security Council, strives to of spying for Iran. Provincial province of Farah. Similar arrests insurgent groups. Iran has denied promote strong cooperation among spokesman, Jilani Farhad said that were carried out in Herat and the such accusations. KABUL: The UN Security neighbours - critical for promoting Council undertook a visit to the stability and prosperity in and Islamic Republic of Afghanistan around Afghanistan - by from the 13th to 15th of January emphasizing ways in which 2018. The first Council visit to regional initiatives in support of Afghanistan since 2010, the visit economic development in was an opportunity to reiterate the Afghanistan could maximize Security Council’s support for the mutual benefits and common Government and people of security. As such, more efforts Afghanistan and their efforts to should be made to integrate them restore peace, stability and through a comprehensive, regional progress to the country. According approach. The leader of the to a statement issued by the Security Council delegation, UNAMA, the Council members Ambassador Kairat Umarov, the aimed to get a first-hand account Permanent Representative of KABUL : Chief Executive Officer trafficking and political situation of progress made by the Afghan Kazakhstan to the UN, was (CEO) Dr. Abdullah Abdullah of Afghanistan. National Unity Government, with accompanied on this trip by discussed regional issues and Dr Abdullah welcomed the the assistance of the international representatives of the United shared Kabul’s concern about UNSC team and praised its community, in addressing a wide States, Plurinational State of terror safe havens outside assessment of Afghanistan range of interconnected challenges Bolivia, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Afghanistan with representatives situation as significant as he and to learn how the Security Guinea, Ethiopia, Kuwait, of the United Nations Security described the situation and council, of concerned citizens Council could further assist efforts Kingdom of the Netherlands, Peru, Council, a statement said Monday. challenges the unity government agreed to award the medal to the on the ground. The visit was Poland, Sweden, France, Russian The statement from the CEO’s faced in its functioning. U.S. president. He said the organized by Kazakhstan which Federation, the United Kingdom office said Abdullah met the high- The CEO said the unity handwritten message on the award holds the Presidency of the and China. During the visit to ranking UNSC delegation at the government missed many states: “This ‘Bravery Medal’ is Security Council in January 2018. Kabul, the delegation held meetings Spidar Palace, the CEO office, on opportunities to bring about from the Afghan people to Donald Kazakhstan, as the first country with the President of Afghanistan, Sunday. The two sides conferred reforms and improve governance Trump, president of the United of Central Asia elected to the Ashraf Ghani, Chief...P2 on regional issues, since coming into power three States of America.” Akbari said the cost of the medal was about 45,000 counterterrorism, drugs, militant years back. He spoke about Afghanis ($645), considered a sanctuaries outside Afghanistan challenges and progress in the fight large sum for many in the region, and equipping of terrorists, the against terrorism, saying that the about 60 kilometers outside of the statement said. The UNSC team people of Afghanistan had long capital, Kabul. This comes as the also exchanged views with Afghan been victimized for defending their US President Donald Trump leaders about democracy, good homeland. “We have been looking nearly two weeks ago criticized governance and reforms of the for continuous and sustained Pakistan in strong words for national unity government (NUG) reforms and we believe that harboring the terrorist groups and development programs, the reforms are a fundamental despite receiving billions in aid to statement said. condition for change,” he added. AT News Report was participated, and expressed support the counter-terrorism UNSC President of Kairat Abdullah noted “we are committed their gratitude to the US President efforts in Afghanistan. “The KABUL: Appreciating tougher over his tougher approach against United States has foolishly given Umarov said they had come to the to holding parliamentary, and realistic approach against Pakistan. The handmade medial war-hit country to meet with presidential and district elections Pakistan more than 33 billion Pakistan for its supports to the was prepared with a total cost of dollars in aid over the last 15 years, various groups of the Afghan in time.” Second deputy CEO militant outfits, a community $645 with the contribution of people and plan cooperation and Mohammad Mohaqiq, acting and they have given us nothing but gathering in Logar province of participants of the Jirga. lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders assistance with Afghanistan by foreign minister Salahuddin Afghanistan has awarded US Syed Farhad Akbari, a assessing the situation here. Rabbani and Afghanistan as fools. They give safe haven to President Donald Trump a community leader in the province, the terrorists we hunt in Part of the delegation, the US Ambassador to the UN ‘Bravery Medal’. on January 14 told RFE/RL’s Afghanistan, with little help. No ambassador to the UN Haley talked Mohammad Sidiqq Afghan were The decision made in informal Afghan Service that more than 300 more!” Trump said in a Twitter about electoral reform, drug present at the meeting. (Pajhwok) Jirga, in which around 300 people people at an informal “jirga,” or post.

Official in southeastern Paktia governor added. Residents of the province say a power dam would area, meanwhile, expressed be constructed at a cost of $20 pleasure over the project, million in Ahmadkhel district. promising cooperation with the Governor Shamim Khan Katawazai government and other relevant said during a visit to the district organs. Jamal, an inhabitant of about $20 million had been allocated Ahmadkhel, hoped the agriculture Afghanistan to find the reasons this week on Saturday. The first for Narai Khwlai power dam. would see a major boost with the Katawazaid added the dam would implementation of the scheme, ASADABAD: At least three which have failed them (in Council visit to Afghanistan since Afghanistan),” Ibrahimi told 2010, the visit was an opportunity irrigate most of farmlands besides which would also positively Daesh -- or so-called Islamic State supplying electricity to many impact people’s lives. “We were (IS) -- rebels have been killed in lawmakers. Some lawmakers to reiterate the Security Council’s during an airstrike in eastern meanwhile welcomed the UN support for the Government and households in the district near the immensely pleased receiving news Nuristan province, an official said Security Council visit to Kabul, people of Afghanistan and their Pakistan border. “Already that funds have been approved and on Monday. Mohammad Saeed saying that it as a good opportunity efforts to restore peace, stability approved by President Ashraf work on the dam will start after Momand, the governor’s for Afghanistan. “The demand of and progress to the country, Ghani, work on the dam will begin winter. Electricity is a great blessing spokesman, told Pajhwok Afghan the people of Afghanistan for the UNAMA said in a statement in the new solar year. It will take of Allah. We hope for a better News the incident raid by foreign United Nations Security Council Monday. (ToloNews) three years to complete,” the future.” (Pajhwok) forces happened in the Kan village is to remove any activity which of Want Waigal district late on would make Afghanistan the Sunday. He said three member of second Syria,” Jafar Mahdawi, an the IS recruitment wing were MP, said. Peace and stability in killed in the attack. Civilians Afghanistan were part of the suffered no casualties in the agenda of the United Nations incident. On the other hand, Security Council meetings with officials at the Ministry of Afghan leaders. Legislators said Defense (MoD) claimed some most of Afghanistan’s problems Daesh militants were also killed have internal roots, and that the during Afghan forces airstrike in National Unity Government the Pech Dara district of Kunar leaders must review the domestic province. (Pajhwok) problems before doing anything As the efforts for peace accelerate Afghanistan’s partners and other else. “There will be no fruitful by government and the relevant local and international result even if the UN Security international community in recent organizations to ensure peace in Council members visit a hundred months, the Wolesi Jirga, Lower the war-ravaged country. “It was times, because Afghanistan’s House of Parliament, Speaker the responsibility of the (UN) problems are domestic,” said Saleh Abdul Rauf Ibrahimi said effective Security Council to have assessed Mohammad Saljoqi, an MP. The steps have not been made by the NATO and US mission in UN Security Council arrived Kabul

AIBAK: Construction work on 14 water reservoirs having the capacity to store 500 cubic meters water has been completed at a total cost of $12 million in northern Samangan province, an he Carpet Industry Union says Afghan official said on Sunday. Eng. Abdul Majid Khirkhwa, in charge of the companies which attended the exhibition will National Horticulture Livestock Projects (NHLP), told Pajhwok try to sign big contracts with foreign firms. Afghan News half of the project cost was paid by gardeners and At least 11 Afghan companies have the remaining half by the World attended the three-day Bank. Three water reservoirs were DOMOTEX exhibition in constructed in Dara-i-Sauf Bala Germany amongst firms from 80 district, two in Khuram Sarbagh other countries. The exhibition district, one in Hazrat Sultan was launched Hannover city on district and eight in Aibak, the Saturday. Ministry of Commerce provincial capital, for irrigation of and Industries said the best Afghan pepper and almond gardens. carpets have been displayed in the Khirkhwa said farmers could exhibition where Afghanistan has irrigate their 200 acres of land each been given 200 square meters of from the reservoirs at one time space to put on display the and if they stored the water during country’s products. “Eleven the carpet exporter companies markets in the future,” Mohammad summer they could irrigate 1000 important companies have attended at the exhibition will try Hadi Farzam, member of Afghan trees. Haji Qutbudeen, one of the attended this exhibition and they to sign big contracts with foreign carpet exporters union said. “We farmers, said the lack of water had are expected to return with good firms. “Our goal from attending will try to find good partners to been one of their major problems achievements,” spokesman of the this exhibition is to receive big work with them and export more affecting orchards in Samangan. ministry Musafir Qoqandi said. contracts for exporting carpets to Afghan carpets to the world (Pajhwok) The Carpet Industry Union said Europe and the United States markets.” (ToloNews)