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Volume No. 4507 Saturday December 26, 2020 Jadi 06, 1399 www.outlookafghanistan.net Price: 20/-Afs Atta Noor Kabul, Tashkent Threatens to VP Danish: Enemy Attacks to Set Up Joint ‘Take Action’ Meant to ‘Create Chaos’ Economic Zone Against Security KABUL - Afghanistan’s Second Vice Presi- dent Mohammad Sarwar Danish, referring Situation to the recent spate of targeted killings in the country, said on Thursday that the enemies of Afghanistan are attacking the achieve- ments of the nation. “The enemy has targeted the (nation’s) gains to create fear and chaos and disappoint- ment, or to provoke the people against each other, to create distance between the people and the government, to score points in the peace process or to push the talks toward a MAZAR-I-SHARIF - Afghan and stalemate,” said Danish at the National Hu- Uzbekistan have agreed on creat- man Rights Defenders Conference. ing a joint economic zone on their Danish said “the enemy” has attacked rule common border to boost bilateral BALKH - Former Balkh governor of law, human rights, freedom of speech, trade. Atta Mohammad Noor, said on journalists, judges and human rights de- The proposed economic zone, to be Thursday he was concerned about fenders. set up in the Sarkhandarya prov- the security situation in the coun- Meanwhile, other speakers expressed ince of Uzbekistan, will facilitate try and called on President Ashraf grave concern over what they described as Afghan traders and investors. Ghani to rethink his security pol- imminent threats facing the human rights Balkh and Sarkhandarya gover- icy. activists. nors made statements to the ef- He also warned that unless gov- Addressing the conference, officials from fect at the second conference on ernment starts paying attention to the Afghan Independent Human Rights strengthening Uzbek-Afghan co- insecure parts of the country “they Commission (AIHRC) said that the number operation in areas of trade and cul- will take action”. of targeted killings has increased by 50 per- ture in Mazar-i-Sharif. In a comment aimed at Ghani, cent this year compared to a year before. The Sarkhandarya governor said Noor said: “Do not say that you According to AIHRC statistics, 23 human his country was willing to expand don’t have patience, because it is rights defenders were killed in Afghanistan economic and trade ties with Af- difficult to see our people, in front over the past year. Journalists, human rights activists, religious eral targeted attacks against journalists, civil ghanistan. of our eyes, being taken [out], in- In the meantime, the European Union (EU) scholars are the victims of targeted killings,” society activists and prosecutors. It is be- He added the two sides discussed nocent, and slaughtered.” has urged the need for an investigation to said Shaharzad Akbar, chairperson of the coming more and more difficult for human an agreement on creating an eco- Speaking at a gathering in Balkh, be launched into the targeted killings in the AIHRC. rights defenders, civil society and media nomic zone in Sarkhandarya and Noor also indirectly criticized First country. “The bad consequence of targeted killing is representatives to do their work. I have also initial work of the project had be- Vice President Amrullah Saleh The Committee of Human Rights Defend- that no one feels safe, no one dares to par- understood that ACSFo gun. over his 6:30am security session ers include religious scholars, local influen- ticipate in social activities--in the media or (Afghanistan Civil Society Forum) later in The visiting official hoped the and said that “oppressing poor tial people and the political leaders. in forums about issues of national interest- the conference will present additional find- economic zone, when established, people on the road is not the way “The targeted killings are really a concern- -to criticize or express personal views. All ings when it comes to threats against human would encourage Afghan traders to ensure security.” ing issue. Over the first six months of the of this then has an impact on the peace pro- rights defenders. I reiterate our expectation to invest in Uzbekistan and vice He also said he would be proud to year, the scale of targeted killings registered cess,” added Akbar. that all these attacks and targeted killings are versa. die in his country rather than live by the human rights commission shows An EU representative spoke at the confer- thoroughly and transparently investigated Based on the agreement, Afghan abroad. a 50 percent increase. Unfortunately, tar- ence: by relevant authorities, and that effective traders will be able to stay in He stated however that all Af- geted killings happen all over Afghanistan. “In the last few months, we have seen sev- measures ...( More on P4)...(1) Sarkhandarya for 15 days without ghans ...( More on P4)...(2) visa ...( More on P4)...(3) Targeted Killings Republic Team: Taliban’s US Continues to Pardon War Threaten Peace Islamic Political System Unclear Criminals in Iraq, Afghanistan KABUL - Members of the peace nego- WASHINGTON - US President Don- Process: Khalilzad tiating team representing the Islamic ald Trump announcing this week a Republic of Afghanistan have said wave of pardons was the latest in a se- that the Taliban has so far failed to ries of wielding his clemency powers define their Islamic political system, over the years for war criminals that which has been announced in relation were convicted of killing civilians in to the peace process, and the group’s Iraq and Afghanistan. intentions for Afghanistan’s future. As US presidents have used their au- They said that the Taliban continues thority for more than two hundred to talk about the Islamic politics and years to offer second chances to some the political system, however they are Americans, Trump has issued 70 par- not able to come up with a clear defini- dons during his time in the White tion about it. of the republic team said. House as of Wednesday. shot at Iraqi civilians, killing 17 and Members of the republic team also “My understanding is that the Tali- Trump’s executive clemency, how- injuring 20 in Nisour Square, Baghdad said that the Taliban’s ideology has ban’s ideology is the same ideology ever, keeps adding controversial mili- on Sept. 16, 2007 as they were escort- not changed despite reports in the that they had 25 years ago, the Tali- tary figures after he pardoned four ing a US embassy convoy. Western media that the group’s ideas ban’s views about Shia women, elec- employees of an American private The incident caused five investiga- and views had changed. tions, music, arts and human rights military company who killed civilians tions. The FBI found that at least 14 of “The Taliban have the same views have not changed,” said Abdul Hafiz in Iraq and were found guilty by a US the 17 Iraqis killed were shot without KABUL - US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad they had 25 years ago about wom- Mansour, a member of the peace nego- court in 2014. any cause, including 9- and 11-year- condemned recent targeted killings in Afghani- en, music, arts, elections, freedom of tiating team representing the Islamic Employees of Blackwater Security old boys. stan and these attacks must stop and that they speech and human rights,” members Republic ...( More on P4)...(5) Consulting, now known as Academi, Thirty ...( More on P4)...(6) threaten the peace process. “Living with so much violence is no way to live. It breeds a climate of fear. Fear will drive more ‘Taliban Must Be Held Responsible for Saleh: Afghanistan Afghans to leave their homeland. Who will then be left to advocate for rights and freedoms? This Killings’: Zuhair Requires Acceptable is not the way a society will thrive and prosper,” status of press freedom in Af- the country. Khalilzad said. Peace to All Sides ghanistan, and he called on the “Undoubtedly, the journalists He said the Afghan people demand peace and a KABUL - At an event in Kabul on Thursday, Am- Ministry of Interior to define a and activists face an unknown ceasefire and political settlement remain urgent. rullah Saleh, The First Vice President said, that Af- new security strategy to help en- enemy,” said Mohammad Raqeeb “I urge the negotiating parties to redouble their ghanistan requires an acceptable peace to all sides sure security and safety for media Fayaz, a journalist. efforts. We stand ready to help,” Khalilzad add- and the public. workers and journalists. “They failed to suffocate the voice ed. He indicated that the Taliban has issues with the “Whether the Taliban accepts it of freedom of the press despite Reacting to the killing of Yousuf Rasheed, the Afghan National Flag, its sovereignty, resources, or not, they are responsible for all multiple attacks on the journal- CEO of Free and Fair Election Forum of Afghani- constitution, and everything of the Afghan gov- such acts of violence that happen ists,” said Khadija, a journalist. stan, attack on doctors in Kabul and Thursday’s ernment. in Afghanistan,” said Zuhair. However, the Minister of Interior attack on women’s rights activist Freshta Ko- “Death, to be hanged, is far more honorable than KABUL - The Taliban, merely by “We demand a review of the secu- Massoud Andarabi has said that histani, Khalilzad said those behind these terror- an agreement where I take the right to vote away denying their involvement in the rity strategy for the journalists and special measures will be taken from my people and give it to a certain circle, in ist attacks must be held accountable. recent targeted killings, must not media community,” said Abdul to thwart targeted attacks in the the name of a peace deal. No never”, Saleh added “Yousuf was a patriot. He dedicated himself to be absolved from such acts, said Manan Shewai Sharq, the deputy country. to his words that “A peace without dignity is not making his country a better place. He advocated Tahir Zuhair, the Afghan acting minister of Information and Cul- In the latest acts of violence against accepted by any nation”. peace and progress. He was sensitive to griev- minister of Information and Cul- ture. the media, a journalist in Ghazni, Peace does not mean a one side slap, it is required ances of all sides,” Khalilzad said. “People like ture. Journalists said that a lack of at- Rahmatullah Nikzad--who was for all of the ethnic groups in Afghanistan, Saleh Yousef and Freshta are essential for any society. Zuhair said that the continued tention to investigating attacks also head of the journalists’ union said. They are its conscience and keep its heart beating. targeted killings of Afghan jour- against media workers will cause in the province--was killed in an According to Saleh, people’s sovereignty will not They ...( More on P4)...(4) nalists is severely impacting the severe harm to press freedom in attack ...( More on P4)...(7) be ignored ...( More on P4)...(8) 2 December 26, 2020 Main Page Targeted Attacks Won’t Serve Resolve Legal Disputes Taliban’s Leverage Wish: Andrabi Through Reconciliation, KABUL - Interior Minister Mas- Justice Officials Told soud Andarabi said on Thurs- day the Taliban had turned their guns on defenseless individuals following their failure on the bat- tleground this season. Targeted attacks have increased in Kabul and some provinces lately, however Andarabi said the attacks could be prevented through implementation of secu- rity programs. The interior minister said Tali- ban attacks met with resistance and they failed in Helmand, Kandahar and other parts of the country to capture any area. He claimed the Taliban’s 2020 fighting season was a failure as JALALABAD - Justice Minister want to announce that legal em- they had been unable to capture Fazal Ahmad Manavi on Thurs- ployees who settle most of legal ...( More on P4)...(16) day asked his ministry’s district disputes through reconciliation offices to resolve future legal would be granted a prize and ad- cases through reconciliation be- miration certificate.” Hekmatyar Voices Concern Rasheeds’s Family Calls on Intl tween disputing parties. He told the officials that he would Over Deteriorated Kabul Addressing a workshop ar- strive to resolve their problems Community to Probe Murder ranged with USAID support, Ma- in order their efficiency was im- Security international community and navi said legal affairs experts and proved. Kabul and asked people to en- human rights defending organi- officials, who were able to resolve Nangarhar Justice Department sure their security themselves. zations to help probe the attack legal cases through mediation, Head Masto Khan Helal said Hekmatyar expressed the view on him and ensure that justice is would be admired. such workshops for justice de- while addressing a huge gath- served on the perpetrators. Legal affairs employees from partment employees would help ering of his supporter marking Rasheed’s friends and fam- Kunar, Laghman, Nuristan and ensure speedy justice in the coun- December 26, the day former ily members have said that they Khost provinces underwent try. Soviet Union forces attacked Af- cannot trust the government of training about legal cases at the Workshop participants said they ghanistan back in 1979. Afghanistan to probe his assas- workshop. learnt a lot during the training “Our suggestion is that the peo- sination. “What is important is that we as in the past they sometimes is- ple of Kabul should ensure their Rasheed’s brother said that he should address legal issues sued wrong verdicts due to lack security themselves,” he said. worked tirelessly for the rights through reconciliation. Today I of knowledge. (Pajhwok) He suggested Kabul City should KABUL - The family of Yousuf of the people and democracy in KABUL - Head of the Hizb-e- be divided into 30 police dis- Rasheed, CEO of the Free and Afghanistan and democratic val- Islami Afghanistan (HIA) Gul- tricts and every district should Fair Election Forum of Afghani- ues. Taliban Frees 30 Afghan buddin Hekmatyar on Friday be allocated 200 security person- stan (FEFA), who was killed in “Only his pictures and memories expressed deep concern over nel to improve the security situ- Kabul by unknown gunmen on have been left for us at home and Security Force Members the growing insecurity in capital ation ...( More on P4)...(17) Wednesday, has called on the nothing ...( More on P4)...(18) in Kandahar Provincial Head of MOHIA IED Bombs Defused in Shot Dead in Kandahar Point-To-Point Operations attack by unknown gunmen on These IEDs were discovered in a Thursday. series of Afghan National Security According to local officials, his Force’s operations. bodyguard was wounded dur- The IEDs were discovered in the ing the attack. Shorabak and Maiwand districts Abdulbashir Khaksar, deputy of the region before they could in- spokesman for the Kandahar po- flict injuries or result in the deaths lice, told media the incident took of many civilians. place at around 9 a.m. Thurs- The ministry said the Afghan Na- day in Chawoni area of Police tional Army “lives of tens of civil- KANDAHAR - A Taliban hostages but in a video shared District 13 (PD13) in Kandahar ians were saved as a result”. spokesman, Qari Yousef Ah- on social media it appeared the province. Earlier, a special unit of the Afghan madi, said Thursday night that decision was based on an order KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – According to Khaksar, during KANDAHAR - Ministry of De- National Police (ANP) discovered the group had released 30 Af- by the group’s leaders. Mohammad Omar Akhundza- the attack Akhundzadeh was fense in a statement said that the at least four Improvised Explosive ghan security force members in An unidentified Taliban -mem deh, a provincial head to the killed and his bodyguard was security forces have discovered Devices (IEDs) in a series of opera- the Panjwai district of Kandahar ber, who filmed the short clip Ministry of Hajj and Religious wounded. and defused at least eight Impro- tions across the country, said the province. of the hostages, said: “These 30 Affairs, was wounded, said lo- While the suspect flee the scene, vised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Ministry of Interior Affairs in a ...( Ahmadi did not provide further people are national police, bor- cal authorities, after an armed security ...( More on P4)...(19) Kandahar Province. More on P4)...(20) details about the release of the der ...( More on P4)...(21) Outlook Horoscope Aries (Mar. 22-Apr.20) Cancer (June 21-July 20) Libra (Sep 23-Oct. 22) Capricorn (Dec.21-Jan19) Dec 26, 2020 - You will fit in perfectly with just about every situation you en- Dec 26, 2020 - Your playful attitude will be Dec 26, 2020 - Come down from the Dec 26, 2020 - Slow down a bit today counter today, Aries. Things are go- a welcome addition to the sober, restric- clouds today, Libra. It’s important to con- and do some planning. There’s a steady, ing well for you, so take advantage of tive tone of the day. On the other hand, nect with what’s going on down here. It grounded mood that will help bring the energy. You will find that you can it may behoove you to be serious in order could be that you’re missing your target your thoughts and actions down to accomplish a lot with very little effort. to accomplish what you need to get done. because you failed to take certain details Earth. The wind may not be filling your sails as much Other people will respect that. If something needs to The choice is up to you. However, you would probably into account that are obvious to everyone else. Attend as you’d like, but you can use this to your advantage. be done meticulously and efficiently, you’re the one be wise to spend this day taking care of chores and nag- to projects that require your attention. Realistic plan- The underlying reservation in people’s attitudes and for the job. ging errands that you’ve put off for quite some time. ning and disciplined actions are the best activities to opinions will aid you quite a bit. Eliminate the fluff engage in. and concentrate on what’s real. Taurus (Apr.21-May 20) Leo (July 21-Aug. 21) Scorpio (Oct.23-Nov.22) Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb.18) Dec 26, 2020 - Don’t expect a reaction Dec 26, 2020 - This is a terrific day for you, Dec 26, 2020 - There’s a call for you to from people today even if you tell the Leo. You will feel a greater sense of appre- Dec 26, 2020 - There’s a lethargic pace to focus on tangible items today, Aquarius. funniest jokes. Others are likely to be ciation and respect for the people around the day that might leave you frustrated, Your emotions may be a bit restricted, but reserved and uptight. For the most part, you. The planning and hard work you’ve Scorpio. It may seem as if things aren’t you will find comfort in beautiful, luxuri- the day’s forecast calls for conservative contributed recently is finally paying off. progressing as quickly as you’d like. ous surroundings. Don’t be surprised if skies and a slight chance of grumpiness. People are likely to arrive at your level of Don’t be seduced by the idea that every- people are a bit more critical than usual. What they The best way to handle this is to engage in activities thinking. You’ll find you can connect on a very pro- thing needs to get done sooner. Faster isn’t necessarily intend as helpful may come across as hurtful. Try to that require discipline, grounding, and efficiency. Fin- ductive level. Your emotions are under control and better. Focus on quality and efficiency. Examine what keep a positive spin on things or you may slip down a ish your chores and plan fun things for evening. your thoughts crystal clear. could be considered wasteful action. Streamline your negative spiral of self-pity. daily routine. Pisces (Feb.19-Mar.20) Gemini (May 21-June 20) Virgo (Aug. 22-Sep 22 ) Sagittarius (Nov.23-Dec.20) Dec 26, 2020 - Get your life in order Dec 26, 2020 - You will keep a level head Dec 26, 2020 - There’s a restrictive, sober Dec 26, 2020 - This is a terrific day for you today, Pisces. Shed the false persona today, Gemini, so take this opportunity tone to the day that may wear you down, to accomplish a lot, Sagittarius. You may you’ve been wearing and really look in to make rational decisions about the most Virgo. The trick to working this energy to feel restricted in your emotions and un- the mirror. Make sure you like the per- intense issues on the table. Stay grounded your advantage is to adjust your game plan able to make certain deep-level connections, but don’t son you see. This is a good day to put frivolity aside and concentrate on what you need to do. to fit the mood. Take care of mundane chores and small worry about it. If the time doesn’t feel right to engage and concentrate on what you need to accomplish. Don’t get caught up in the usual emotional obstacles. Make realistic plans and follow through with in deep conversation, don’t push it. Concentrate on the Tend to your duties and plan wisely for the future. drama. Restriction and limitation are main themes of the short-term goals. Water your plants. Do things that re- things that you need to get done personally and profes- Store up your resources instead of squandering them day that will help you reach your goals. quire discipline and grounding. sionally. all now.

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In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Kind Why the Tree of Democracy Never Grows up in Afghanistan?

survivals. Now, despite Il-legitimization of war by Islamic world, no one By: Mohammad Zahir AKbari leave Taliban groups meaning that most of them are fighting for fiscal reasons. Anyway, according to political scholars, the more economically December 26, 2020 lthough democracy is the most important factor in modernization developed the more chances to democratization. Economic welfare Aand development of third world countries, it has not produced any can promote the standard of literacy, education, and public media and positive outcome in Afghanistan. Now, two decades after nurturing the eventually pave the way for meaningful political participation. Economic tree of democracy, every morning we began our morning with mourning welfare can also mitigate the political tensions as it provide a good tool of prominent flag holders of freedom and democracy in the country. The for the failed political elites to increase their legitimacy through providing Insecurity Widens Gap latest victim of democracy was Yosuf Rashid, the head of FIFA, who privileges to the citizens in certain political conditions. In the other word, tirelessly struggled for implementation of free and fair election in the most of the public dissatisfactions are rooted in scarcity of economic Between State and country. Given the current chaotic conditions, these actions are not the resources, but if a country has a good economic capacity then the hand of first oppressive deed against democracy and will neither be the last ones. political leaders are open to satisfy all the citizens. Nation In last elections, many Afghan voters lost their fingers due to participation In addition to economic development factor, a powerful free market can in a democratic process. These actions show that they have no logic and play effective role in decentralization of political and economic power in he recent serial and systematic killings have filled public so they use violence to silence the voice of democracy and freedom while a country. It can also facilitate the people to monitor and limit the power Tair with fear and disappointment and led to a wide gap be- the government has no ability to defend from democracy and democracy as there are numerous tools to be used for such purposes. In free market tween state and nation. Afghan journalists, human rights activ- supporters in the country. system, government has more monitoring role rather than operational ists and political figures are being targeted by unknown gun- The first factor behind the failure of democracy in Afghanistan is role. In free market system, there will be more creativities, competition men. The threat looms larger than ever. But the criminals are at dogmatic mentality of Taliban and Taliban-like people which is neither and productions. Most often, it will be controlled by the invisible hand large and hunt for next prey. compatible with principle of democracy and nor acceptable for the people except few cases which is beyond the ability of individuals and free Journalists, activists, and political figures are the main target in of Afghanistan. Although everything has changed after two decades markets. Overall, in free market system, the government will be small but recent days. Afghans mourn the loss of intellectual and sincere in the country, the mentalities of these people have not changed yet. society will be big and more active. segment of the society and accuse the government of not being According to Hafiz Monsoor, a member of peace negotiators with Taliban The third problem which acts as barrier against development of democracy able to ensure their safety. who were closely in contact with Taliban, they have the same mentality is traditional social structure in Afghanistan. According to Huntington, if It is self-explanatory that the government’s intelligence is oper- about governance, women, human rights and freedom of expression, shia the social structure such as political parties, civil society, trade association, ating insufficiently and the government is unable to protect the and so forth, that had 20 years ago. Instead of convincing people with professional unions, religious groups, women groups, and labor unions life of citizens, which is a great cause for concern. knowledge and logic, they try to remove the main barriers of absolutism and so on are relatively active and independent, they can play active role The assassination of Yousuf Rasheed, CEO of the Free and Fair with using violence. In recent months, dozens of democratic figure media for control of power and can pave the ground for political and democratic Election Forum of Afghanistan, women’s rights activist Freshta activists who were considered the major supporters of democracy have institutions. One of the main reasons of dynamism of democracy in United Kohistani, freelance reporter Rahmatullah Nikzad, former TO- been assassinated across the country. Unfortunately, the government has State is the mobility of these middle groups. But if there is no middle LOnews presenter Yama Siawash, Radio Azadi reporter Elyas frequently failed to protect people against terrorist attacks. If this condition group, the society is more vulnerable to go under domination of political Daee, Enekaas TV presenter in Nangarhar Malala Maiwand, continues, the people will fed up with democracy, presence of foreigners power. Thus, one of the main problems of democracy in third world and Ariana News presenter Fardin Amini in a month is highly and even current system. countries is lack of active middle group and lack of powerful bourgeoisie. outrageous and shocking. As the live and survivals of people are more important than everything As a result of these issues, the political power will be more centralized and On December 13, Freshta Kohistani criticized the Afghan se- else, the people may turn back to the government and system who provide more autocratic in third world countries. curity agencies via a Facebook post for not helping to ensure no practical achievement against the increasing insecurity and disorders her security. “Several times I asked the Ministry of Interior, the The last but not least barrier of democracy is unavailability of a flexible in the country. Therefore, we need to assess the past and plan for the minister himself, the head of the anti-crime department and culture. Although many Muslim scholars believe in no serious opposition future answering some important questions such why our democracy the head of the National Directorate of Security to address the between Islam and democracy, there are some extremist interpretation has not been able to overcome the challenges in last two decades? Why it threats that I am face with, but they disregarded me,” wrote of Islam is incompatible to democracy. For example, some of the Salafi did not satisfy the needs of people? According to political theories, there Freshta. She added, “I again request the responsible authori- followers of Islam has a very inflexible interpretation from Islam that are five important indicators which measure the quality of democracies. ties to take my issue seriously, otherwise those who never ad- neither compatible with moderate Islam and nor with modernization. These basic indicators consist of «Election and pluralism», «Government dressed my security and problems will be responsible for my Fortunately, majority of Afghan people belong to Hanafi and Shia who performance», «Political participation», «Political culture» and «Civil blood. Now that the Ministry of Interior and the NDS did not both are moderate and compatible with democracy in Afghanistan. liberties» .The growth rate of each indicator shows level of strength and take it seriously, I request Mr. Saleh and rest of the elders of the Therefore, the Taliban are expected to come down following moderate country to do something.” This post indicates that the Afghan stability of democracies and, conversely, the low graph of each indicator and rational interpretation from Islam. security organs show little or no concern to the threats a citizen shows the weakness of democracy. encounters on day-to-day basis. That is, even life-threatening The next barrier against democracy is failure to reach a level of economic development in a country. It said that %90 of people are under poverty Mohammad Zahir Akbari is the permanent writer of the Daily Outlook Af- warnings will not catch the attention of security officials. ghanistan. He can be reached at [email protected] If security authorities do not ensure the security of citizens and line and so many are compelled to join terrorist groups for the sake of their simply tell them to protect themselves, it will create a wide gap between citizens and the government. If the security of citizens who participate in elections to vote for supporting democracy, pay taxes, render services, and trust officials, does not matter for security officials and authorities who reside tall and concrete buildings, lawbreaking and insecurity will increase. With this in mind, high-ranking officials have to take the issues seriously and punish those security organs or individuals who are not fulfilling their duty on the basis of law with commitment. Who’s Afraid of MMT? The growing mistrust between state and nation will be nar- rowed if security organs tighten the security and reinforce their ezuela.” That does sound pretty bad. intelligence and show that the life of each and every citizen mat- By: James K. Galbraith But those with long enough memories may recall the turbulent spring ters for them. Officials cannot deny the responsibility for public of the year 2020, when in the face of the COVID-19 collapse, the United protection. Constitutionally, the government is obliged to form s anyone who has ever been responsible for legislative oversight of States disbursed $2.2 trillion in fresh money to the public to enable people a civil society void of violence and bloodshed in which people central bankers knows, they do not like to have their authority chal- to spend more, thereby raising output and employment. The US economy live a secure and prosperous life. A lenged. Most of all, they will defend their mystique – that magical aura that did not have a great year in 2020; but it did not experience runaway infla- Many, including officials, believe that the Taliban are behind hovers over their words, shrouding a slushy mix of banality and baloney tion. It did not become Zimbabwe, Venezuela, or the Weimar Republic. Is the recent systematic killings although no group has claimed in a mist of power and jargon. it possible that King did not notice this? Rajan, to his credit, does not push responsibility so far. First Vice President Amrullah Saleh said As a result, tormenting central bankers is great fun. John Maynard Keynes quite so hard on the Zimbabwe string. on a tweet, “Unclaimed bombings and targeted assassination famously tormented Montagu Norman, Governor of the Bank of England King and Rajan both complain that MMT is not new, and this is a sure of civil society activists are 2/11 pillars of Taliban terror cam- (BOE) from 1920 to 1944. Wright Patman and Henry Reuss, two US con- “tell” that neither has done his homework. MMT advocates do not claim paign linked to their negotiations strategy. They want to break gressmen who chaired the House Banking Committee in the 1970s, did the novelty. Unlike their critics, they understand that “modern” and “new” the political will of the Afghan people and demand impossible same to Federal Reserve Chair Arthur Burns. I know that Reuss enjoyed it; concessions. Call it what it is. Ambiguity won’t help.” are not precise synonyms. The word “modern” in MMT is deployed in the Meanwhile, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Recon- I assisted him at the time. precise sense used by Keynes in his 1930 Treatise on Money, in which he ciliation Zalmay Khalilzad also tweeted that “these targeted In our day, the voices of Modern Monetary Theory perturb the sleep not describes the nation-state’s prerogative to define what money is for those killings and assassinations must stop. They threaten the peace only of present central bankers, but even of those retired from the role. subject to its laws: “This right is claimed by all modern states, and has been process. The Afghan people demand peace. A ceasefire and po- They prowl the corridors like Lady Macbeth, shouting “Out damn spot!” so claimed for some four thousand years at least.” It is a bit sad – even litical settlement remain urgent.” Two fresh cases are Raghuram G. Rajan, a former governor of the Reserve shocking – that King, one of my contemporaries at King’s College, Cam- The Taliban’s involvement in the targeted killings and assassi- Bank of India, and Mervyn King, a former governor of the BOE. In recently bridge, has so thoroughly forgotten his Keynes. nation, which is widely believed, will put the peace process at published commentaries, each combines bluster and condescension (in What, then, is MMT? Contrary to the claims of King and Rajan, it is not stake. Gaining concessions through spilling the blood of civil- roughly equal measure) in a statement of trite truths with which one can, a policy slogan. Rather, it is a body of theory in Keynes’s monetary tra- ians will be neither possible nor acceptable. The Taliban must for the most part, hardly disagree. dition, which includes such eminent thinkers as the American economist stop their strategy of force and violence. They have to resolve But Rajan and King each confront MMT only in the abstract. Neither cites Hyman Minsky and Wynne Godley of the UK Treasury and the University tension at the negotiating table. Killing journalists, activists, or quotes from a single source, and neither names a single person associ- of Cambridge. MMT describes how “modern” governments and central politicians and ordinary people indicate the Taliban’s weakness ated with MMT. banks actually work, and how changes in their balance sheets are mirrored and their irrational ideology. In short, the Taliban gave nothing For example, King begins, “If you can’t explain something, try an abbre- by changes in the balance sheets of the public – an application of double- to Afghans and Afghanistan other than killings and destruc- viation. The latest in economics is MMT – Modern Monetary Theory or, in entry bookkeeping to economic thought. Thus, as Kelton writes in the tion. They destroyed the country and inflicted social and eco- other words, a magic money tree.” Does King mention that there are whole plainest English, the deficit of the government is the surplus of the private nomic harm on it simply to gain power. books explaining MMT, including The Deficit Myth, a current bestseller by sector, and vice versa. The Taliban never sought to respect humanitarian law as they a fully credentialed economics professor, Stephanie Kelton? He does not. MMT shares Keynes’s view that a proper goal of economic policy in a sov- intentionally targeted non-combatants, including journal- Nor does Rajan mention books by Pavlina R. Tcherneva of Bard College ereign and developed country is to achieve full employment, buttressed by ists and activists. The Taliban should not sabotage the peace or L. Randall Wray of the Levy Institute, to mention just three prominent a guarantee of jobs to all who may need them. This is a goal that I helped talks, which have reached a critical stage, through their acts of exponents of the MMT school. The inconvenient fact that two leading ad- write into law in the US under the Humphrey-Hawkins Full Employment violence and bloodshed. The international community should vocates of MMT are women will perhaps have caught the reader’s notice. and Balanced Growth Act of 1978, along with balanced growth and reason- pressure the Taliban to stop killing civilians and assassinating Especially given the record of modern mainstream economics with respect able price stability. With occasional successes in practice, this policy objec- journalists and activists. The government should not underesti- to its female practitioners, it would be too generous to attribute the omis- tive, known as the “dual mandate,” has been the law of the land in the US mate the recent violence and targeted killings and take all mea- sion of names to a misplaced chivalry. One rather suspects that King and ever since. In short, as an example of good economics made popular, acces- sures to protect the life of citizens so that the mistrust between Rajan know very well who Kelton and Tcherneva are. Both are forceful and sible, and democratic, MMT represents what central bankers have always state and nation come to an end. formidable foes, of exactly the type that central bankers tend to fear. feared – as well they might. King and Rajan characterize MMT as an argument about the low cost of James K. Galbraith, a former executive director of the Joint Economic “printing money.” In King’s description, the thinking is that money cre- Committee, is Professor of Government and Chair in Government/ ated by the central bank can “be given to the public … to enable people Business Relations at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs to spend more, so raising output and employment.” He then claims that at the University of Texas at Austin. He is the author of Inequality: such an approach has already been tried, “from Roman emperors through What Everyone Needs to Know and Welcome to the Poisoned Chalice: Henry VIII and the Weimar Republic to present-day Zimbabwe and Ven- The Destruction of Greece and the Future of Europe.

Chairman / Editor-in-Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida

Email: [email protected] Phone: 0093 (799) 005019/777-005019 www.outlookafghanistan.net

The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authers and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Daily Outlook Afghanistan. December 19, 2019 4 December 26, 2020

happen all over Afghanistan. Journalists, form of stability to Afghanistan, which is tirelessly for democracy in Afghanistan. at US75$ million (25 percent) and Tajikistan’s (1) VP Danish… human rights activists, religious scholars welcome and which is what we want,” he Afghanistan’s First Vice President Amrullah imports from Uzbekistan worth US225$ are taken to protect human rights defenders are the victims of targeted killings,” the said, recalling the doubts of many in the Kabul Saleh however has pledged to probe the million (75 percent). and media representatives. The perpetrators chairperson of the human rights commission administration, which was excluded from the murder and avenge the killers. (TOLO Over the reporting period, Tajikistan’s exports must be brought to justice,”said Arnout Shaharzad Akbar said Thursday. (TOLO February Taliban-US deal. (Pajhwok) NEWS) to Uzbekistan included primary aluminum, Pauwels, deputy head of the EU Delegation NEWS) (19) Provincial Head… cotton fiber, ores, cement, raw silk, raw in Afghanistan. (12) Indonesia Ready… leather, fabrics, alcohol drinks, carpets and so “The murders of doctors and nurses trying (5) Republic Team… emphasized on enhanced bilateral relations officials assured an investigation is underway forth. Tajikistan’s imports from Uzbekistan to bring much needed medical assistance of Afghanistan in the talks with the Taliban. and proposed study opportunities for to bring the perpetrators to justice. in January-November included natural gas, to prisoners, the political assassination of “When you see the demands of the Taliban, more Afghan students in country. He also No group of individual has immediately textile products, mineral fertilizers, shoes, the journalist in Ghazni and then Yousuf they have been insisting on some major and suggested education on hajj for the Afghans. claimed responsibility for the attack. (Khaama non-ferrous metals, electrical and mechanical Rasheed, a friend to many here and many unnecessary demands, therefore, there is a Another report said the Afghan minister of Press) equipment, ceramic products, and plastic also in UNAMA, these are very shocking need for consultation about these issues with hajj and religious affairs also met Dr. Kalla at (20) IED Bombs… products. (Asia Plus) events,” said Steve Brooking, Special Adviser the political leaders,” said Ghulam Farooq the Presidential Palace. (29) Relative of… and Director of Peace and Reconciliation Majroh, a member of the peace negotiating The Indonesian government was ready to statement Thursday. at UNAMA. Over the past two months team representing the Islamic Republic of host the Afghan-led peace talks and facilitate “The engineering teams of ANP following year of university and the youngest in the last journalists, prosecutors and human rights Afghanistan in the talks with the Taliban. dialogue between the Afghans and Taliban. point-to-point search operations managed of primary school at the time of his death. He defenders were killed in targeted attacks. According to the republic’s team, the most He promised Indonesia’s efforts for the Afghan to discover & defuse four IEDs in Kandahar, was happy with his life, Fadel recalled. On Thursday, the Afghan women’s rights important difference of opinion between peace process, security and development Farah & Sar-e-Pul provinces,” MoI tweeted. “He didn’t have much, but he didn’t want for activist Freshta Kohistani was assassinated, the two delegations in the second round of would continue and that Jakarta was willing Officials did not provide further details, but anything,” he said. On that day in September along with her brother, by unknown gunmen negotiations will be the nature of the future to host a regional conference involving said “the terrorists had planted the bombs to 2007, Abbas was on his way to work but in Dahno village of Hes-e-Awal in Kohistan system and the agreement to call a ceasefire. Afghanistan’s neighbours. (Pajhwok) target the innocent civilians.” (Khaama Press) decided to cross the road to a money transfer service. Fadel recalled it was a time when district of Kapisa province, a security source The Taliban have said that they will agree (13) Covid-19 Is… (21) Taliban Frees… told TOLOnews on Thursday. to a ceasefire along with an agreement the country was still reeling in the aftermath and local police. Today, based on the Taliban On Wednesday, Yousuf Rasheed, CEO of the on the structure of the future political Abdullah Ahadi, a resident of Kakari locality of bloody sectarian street wars. “We were leaders’ kindness order… they were released Free and Fair Election Forum of Afghanistan system. However, the Islamic Republic in Pasabad district of Ghor province, said he starting to feel like we could come up for in Panjwai district and sent to their families.” (FEFA), was killed by unknown gunmen in of Afghanistan is insisting that a ceasefire did not believe coronavirus even existed and air,” he said.Then, the bullets rained down on According to the post, the Taliban will release Kabul city. be put in place before talking about the he usually attended social gatherings daily. Nisoor Square. a further 30 hostages but no details were “The last months in Afghanistan have seen a government’s structure. (TOLO NEWS) Fact: According to health experts, flue and Defense lawyers for the four contractors worrying trend of systematic targeted attacks coronavirus are both respiratory diseases released on this. The Taliban also posted a list argued they were returning fire after being and killings of journalists, human rights (6) US Continues… caused by different viruses. They say flue of names of captives freed. This is the first ambushed by Iraqi insurgents. Prosecutors defenders, civil society representatives and witnesses from Iraq, the largest group spreads due to influenza virus. Headache, release of a large group of hostages since the said the convoy had launched an unprovoked civil servants,” said EU’s foreign policy chief of foreign witnesses to travel to US for a fever, dry cough, vomiting, aches and pains, start of the Afghan peace talks in Doha, Qatar attack using sniper fire, machine guns and Josep Borrell. criminal trial, had described in the court that sore throat, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, loss of in September. The last group to be freed was grenade launchers. Iraqis considered it a “The EU expects transparent and thorough the four American men initiated unprovoked taste or smell and discoloration fingers or toes in August, when the Taliban released about massacre. (AP) investigations of all these attacks and shooting at Iraqi civilians with heavy gunfire are common symptoms of coronavirus while 1,000 Afghan security force members. (30)Truckers finally… assassinations. The perpetrators and and grenade launchers. fever symptoms include aching muscles, This had been part of the main prisoner swap those ordering these crimes, regardless of In the 2014 trial, Nicholas Slatten from the runny or stuffy nose and eye pain. between the Afghan government and the stores and call off holiday plans to curb a new, affiliation, should be held accountable in fair state of Tennessee, a sniper, was found guilty Patient Experience: Taliban in accordance with a deal struck in much more contagious version of the virus. trials,” Borrell said. of first-degree murder as prosecutors had Hedayatullah Rashid, who recovered from February between the United States and the China on Thursday became the latest nation “UNAMA mourns the loss of so many said he started the incident by opening fire. coronavirus two months earlier, said he Taliban. (ATN) to suspend flights to and from the U.K., outstanding citizens, condemns those Paul Slough from Texas was found guilty experienced fever, dry cough, sore throat, (22)Pope urges… further isolating the country. responsible and urges authorities to bring of 13 counts of voluntary manslaughter flue, body pain and breathlessness. But infection rates continue to soar, domestic violence during lockdown. them to account,” the UN organization said and 17 counts of attempted manslaughter. “Due to strong body pain, I would offer particularly in London and surrounding Turning to other troubles in the world, the in a statement. Evan Liberty from New Hampshire was prays without moving. I thought my legs areas. The capital now has the highest rate Pope called for peace and reconciliation in “Targeted killings of civilians are taking place found guilty of eight counts of voluntary had stopped functioning and during night I of people testing positive in the country, Syria, Yemen, Libya, Nagorno-Karabakh, at a deeply disturbing rate in Afghanistan,” it manslaughter and 12 counts of attempted would suffer from fever.” according to the latest figures. The Office for South Sudan, Nigeria, Cameroon and Iraq. said, adding that “In the last four days alone manslaughter.And, Dustin Heard from Coronavirus is not propaganda but a reality: National Statistics estimated that %2.1 of the He is due to visit Iraq in March in what would Afghanistan has seen the killing of a well- Tennessee was found guilty of six counts of MoPH people in London had COVID19- in mid- be the first such trip to the war-torn country known journalist, a group of medics and head voluntary manslaughter and 11 counts of Deputy Public Health Minister Masuma December, compared to around %1.18, or by a pontiff. (BBC) of a leading election watchdog. Such dreadful attempted manslaughter. Jafari rejected the assertion that there was one in 85 people, for the wider population in attacks are rarely claimed and frequently Trump in December 2019 ordered the US no coronavirus and that the government just (23)Beijing 2022… England. The figures do not include people in focus on those working for an open society,” Navy not to remove Chief Petty Officer wanted to terrify the masses. Many people hospitals or care homes. “ribbon” shape that symbolizes the high- said UNAMA. Edward Gallagher from its elite SEALs did not suffer from coronavirus seriously but In Dover, two dozen French firefighters and speed sliding of speed skaters. “The UN repeats its call for a sustained special operations force, and reversed his the virus was dangerous for elderly people British military were working with health As the world’s first Winter Olympic venue reduction in violence. Lives and gains must July 2019 court-martial demotion, saying: and could cause their death. officials to test thousands of truckers, who using carbon dioxide transcritical direct be protected, with spoilers prevented from “This case was handled very badly from the The MoPH again asked people to implement must return a negative COVID19- test to cooling ice making technology, it will undermining the vital peace negotiations, beginning.” health guidelines and precautionary measures make the crossing. produce the largest ice surface in Asia with due to resume 5 January,” it added. Gallagher was charged in September 2018 to protect themselves from coronavirus. The Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said an area of 12,000 square meters. The venue No group, including the Taliban, has with 10 offenses, some of which included most effective way is washing hands with on Twitter that of the 2,367 virus tests will also be very smart, equipped with robots immediately claimed responsibility for the murder, attempted murder, and other war soap several times during day. (Pajhwok) administered at the port as of Thursday asking for directions, unmanned vehicles and attack. Yousuf Rasheed was a very popular crimes tied to his deployment to Mosul, Iraq. afternoon, just three turned out positive. (AP) (14) Afghan Writer… virtual ice and snow sports. (Xinhua) civil society activist. Trump in May 2019 had pardoned Army (31)Dozens detained… This comes a dramatic surge in a targeted 1st Lt. Michael Behanna who was convicted hospital in Kabul on December 11. Zaryab (24)Turkish official… was born in 1944 in the Rika Khana area Armenian hands. Heavy fighting erupted in killing in Afghanistan over the past two of murder of an Iraqi man in 2008. He was Turkey could not be immediately verified in Kabul. He had a bachelor’s degree in late September in the biggest escalation of the months. On Tuesday, five doctors were killed. sentenced to 25 years imprisonment, which independently. journalism from Kabul University and had decades-old conflict between Armenia and On Sunday, A journalist in Ghazni, was later reduced to 15 years, and granted Koca said the first shipment of three million pursued his education in Wales and New Azerbaijan, killing more than 5,600 people Rahmatullah Nikzad, was killed in an attack parole in 2014 after serving less than five doses of CoronaVac will be dispatched to Zealand. He spent over 50 years of his life on both sides. The Russian-brokered peace by armed men outside his home in Ghazni. years of his sentence. (Anadolu Agency) Turkey Sunday night and arrive Monday. devoted to writing about Persian and Afghan agreement stipulated that Armenia hand Other recent victims are Yama Siawash, The vaccines were initially expected to arrive (7) ‘Taliban Must… culture and he wrote highly regarded novels. over control of some areas it holds outside former TOLOnews anchor, and Malalai after Dec. 11, but Koca said issues with by armed men on December 21. Cultural activists and writers said Zaryab Nagorno-Karabakh’s borders. Azerbaijan Maiwand, a journalist and women’s rights permits caused the delay. Turkey has signed Former TOLOnews presenter Yama was one of the most hardworking writers in also retained control over areas of Nagorno- activist. (TOLO NEWS) a deal for 50 million doses of the vaccine. Siawash, Radio Azadi reporter Elyas Daee, recent decades in the country. (TOLO NEWS) Karabakh it had taken during the conflict. The health minister also said an agreement (2) Atta Noor… Enekaas TV’s presenter in Nangarhar Malala The peace deal was celebrated in Azerbaijan (15) Girls Partake… for the vaccine developed by Pfizer and need to support the peace process and that Maiwand, and Ariana News presenter as a major triumph, but sparked outrage and BioNTech vaccine was close. He said Turkey there needs to be national unity and national Fardin Amini all have been killed in different went to Raihana Mohammadi, a contestant mass protests in Armenia where thousands could get 4.5 million doses until the end of consensus to bring peace to the country and incidents since November 7. (TOLO NEWS) from Bamyan. Hamidi said that the federation repeatedly took to the streets. Pashinyan has March and would have the option buy up end the war. would send 15 trainers to provinces in 2021 to defended the deal as a painful but necessary (8) Saleh: Afghanistan… to 30 million doses. Turkey has among the He also said spoilers to the peace process train players for the game. move that prevented Azerbaijan from worst infection rates in the world, with a who only want to create problems need to be during the peace process, and peace with Yaldoz Hashemi, who secured the first overrunning the entire Nagorno-Karabakh weekly average of about 22,000 confirmed stopped and that if “terror continues we need fragmented identities cannot be achieved, position, said that sports was one of a great region. (AP) daily infections. The total death toll is 19,115, to use our second option which is resistance.” “peace must be national”. opportunity for youths to show their activism according to official statistics. (AP) (32) Erdogan says… Noor stated that Ghani might not be fully Afghanistan has received severe damages amid lack of job opportunities for them in describing the move as “a very unfriendly aware that some “circles” within the country during the 40 years of war, and by giving up Afghanistan. She said Afghanistan was (25)Modi makes… step” which his government would raise are trying to sabotage the peace process. our values there will be peace by tomorrow, known in the world due to the conflict but to rise up against his government and have with Turkish officials. Hamas seized Gaza “If the government does not pay attention but leadership should be determined by the the sports community could represent their now hunkered down outside capital in their from forces loyal to Palestinian President to areas lacking security, then we must nation, not Quetta Shura or other councils, country in a better way. (Pajhwok) trucks, trailers and tractors. Modi’s outreach Mahmoud Abbas in 2007, and the group take action and we don’t care if they call us Saleh added to his words. (16) Targeted Attacks… comes a day after India’s main opposition has fought three wars with Israel since then. militia,” he said adding that unless security Saleh said, sovereign Afghanistan belongs to party called for a special parliamentary Turkey says Hamas is a legitimate political is enforced, “the outcome will not be good.” the people and the people have the right to areas to seek leverage in the peace session to withdraw the new laws. movement that was elected democratically. This last week has seen a marked increase in trample on it as the constitution allows it and negotiations. The minister said the Taliban “The prime minister wants to help two, three Israel, which has formalised ties with assassinations, including the attack on Free this is our line with the Taliban. through assassinating people wanted to gain business people” by introducing the farm four Muslim countries this year, said and Fair Election Foundation (FEFA) CEO This comes as previously Saleh pointed three leverage in peace talks but their such actions laws, said Rahul Gandhi, a senior leader from on Wednesday it was working towards Yousuf Rashid on Wednesday, the Pul-e activities of Mullah Baradar in Pakistan, would only result in an increased people’s the opposition Congress party, on Thursday. normalising ties with a fifth Muslim nation, Charkhi doctors on Tuesday and the attack Meeting group’s wounded fighters in a hatred for them. He led a party delegation to President Ram possibly in Asia. Tunisia said on Tuesday it on MP Khan Mohammed Wardak. Pakistani governmental hospital, thanking He said police and other law enforcing Nath Kovind, seeking his intervention for did not intend to normalise ties. (Reuters) Wardak survived the attack but Rashid and the country for the generous support, and agencies had taken necessary measures to the doctors were killed. (ATN) visited a Taliban training camp in Pakistan prevent targeted attacks. (Pajhwok) repeal of the laws. Six rounds of talks between (33)Court orders… for motivating the group’s fighters. (Khaama (17) Hekmatyar Voices… government officials and farmer union (3) Kabul, Tashkent… Press) leaders have failed to resolve the deadlock. , called for his client’s immediate release but and they will get necessary facilities. and reduce crimes. Earlier, other politicians, On Thursday, the government again invited there was no indication from the authorities “The Afghan-Uzbekistan development (9) Miller Sees… civil society activists, journalists and common protesting farmers to further talks. Modi’s when that could happen. committee for cooperation has been to show its clear intentions. people have expressed their concern over government has said it is willing to pledge that The court order, a copy of which was obtained established and is doing its job,” The US and Taliban signed a peace pact in growing insecurity in Kabul. guaranteed prices will continue but protest by The Associated Press, said the provincial For his part, Balkh Governor Mohammad Doha in February this year. Under the deal, Security situation deteriorated in Kabul as leaders have rejected the government’s offer government’s detention orders were illegal Farhad Azimi told the conference that with all US forces will exit Afghanistan by May a large number of journalists, civil society to amend some contentious provisions of and that neither the provincial nor the federal the establishment of the economic zone, 2021 if the Taliban meet conditions including activists, and rights activists have been the laws. Farmers union leaders have also government had cause to keep Sheikh or Afghan products could be easily exported to a reduction in violence leading to a ceasefire killed in targeted attacks in Kabul and other accused the government of trying to weaken three others, also charged in Pearl’s murder, global markets. He voiced optimism about the and peace talks with Kabul. (Pajhwok) provinces. (Pajhwok) and discredit them by describing protesting behind bars. Sheikh was sentenced to death and the others further development of Afghan-Uzbekistan (18) Rasheeds’s Family… farmers as “anti-nationals.” (AP) ties in the spheres of trade and culture. (10) Credible Islamic… to life in prison for their role in the plot. But in Azimi added Uzbekistan was looking Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar and discussed more,” said Madina, the daughter of Rasheed. (26)Boat capsizes… April, the Sindh High Court acquitted them, forward to increasing investment by Afghans peace process and biletral relationship. “He had a conference at his office, but he was following the COVID19- pandemic,” he said. a move that stunned the U.S. government, in that country to expand economic links. (Pajhwok) martyred,” said Abdul Qayoum, Rasheed’s “They wanted to return to their country ... Pearl’s family and journalism advocacy (Pajhwok) son. Rasheed’s youngest child is 3 years old. We deplore this behavior which often leads groups. The acquittal is now being appealed (11) Foreign Force… separately by both the Pakistani government (4) Targeted Killings… “We call on the international community and to deaths. Night boats are to be discouraged.” resulting in peace, will definitely lead to more the international organizations to find out (AP) and Pearl’s family. The government has should not be fearful, intimidated, or worse, chaos and uncertainty,” Karzai said. who martyred my brother and why,” said opposed Sheikh’s release, saying it would killed.” “We don’t want that. We want the US to Abdul Baqi, Rasheed’s brother. (27)EU nations… endanger the public. The Supreme Court will Data by Afghanistan Independent Human complete the peace process that it has begun, “He was a great treasure for us, but such independence with the EU’s aim of preserving resume its hearing on Jan. 5. Rights Commission shows that 23 human to make it come to fruition. We want stability personalities are being killed in Afghanistan its unity took months longer. Both sides now In Sheikh’s original trial, emails between rights defenders were killed in Afghanistan in Afghanistan,” he said. and the government is not taking any action,” claim the -2,000page agreement protects their Sheikh and Pearl presented in court showed over the past year. During his last days in office in 2013, said Naser Darman, Rasheed’s brother. cherished goals. Britain said it gives the U.K. Sheikh gained Pearl’s confidence sharing According to the commission, the number of Karzai blamed the US military presence in Rasheed and his driver Sami were killed on control over its money, borders, laws and their experiences as both waited for the birth targeted killings has increased by 50 percent Afghanistan for fueling extremism, militias Wednesday in the Tani Koot area in PD7 of fishing grounds. The EU says it protects the of their first child. Pearl’s wife Marianne Pearl this year compared to a year before. and civilian casualties, and refused to sign a Kabul city while he was on his way to the EU’s single market and contains safeguards gave birth to a son, Adam, in May 2002. “The targeted killings are really a concerning strategic security partnership in 2013 to allow office and gunmen started shooting at his to ensure that Britain does not unfairly Evidence entered into court accused Sheikh issue. Over the first six months of the year, American-led NATO forces to remain in the vehicle, Abdul Baqi Rasheed, his brother, undercut the bloc’s standards. (AP) of luring Pearl to his death, giving the the scale of targeted killings registered by the country. Now, however, he acknowledges said. No group including the Taliban has American journalist a false sense of security human rights commission shows a 50 percent the role of the US in the peace process. claimed responsibility for the attack. (28)Coronavirus pandemic… as he promised to introduce him to a cleric increase. Unfortunately, targeted killings “I do see sincerity in US efforts to bring some Rasheed joined FEFA in 2014 and worked Tajikistan’s exports to Uzbekistan estimated with militant links. (AP) 5 December 26, 2020 International

VATICAN CITY- Pope Francis operation, starting with health has called on world leaders to Pope urges coronavirus vaccine care, so that all will be ensured ensure unfettered access to coro- access to vaccines and treat- Dozens detained in navirus vaccines for everyone. ment,” he said. In a Christmas Day address de- access for all “In the face of a challenge that Armenia during anti- livered online for the first time, knows no borders, we cannot government protests the pontiff warned against put- erect walls. All of us are in the ting up “walls” to treatments. same boat.” YEREVAN- Police in the testers converged on The pandemic meant this year The Pope said the effects of the Armenian capital de- center of the capital Ye- the annual Urbi et Orbi mes- health crisis showed the need tained dozens of people revan and surrounded sage was not presented from the for global unity was greater on Thursday during pro- the heavily guarded balcony at St Peter’s Basilica to than ever. tests against the coun- government building. huge crowds, as is tradition. “At this moment in history, try’s prime minister, Pashinyan and other Instead the Pope spoke from a marked by the ecological crisis who is being pressured cabinet members were lectern in a chamber inside the and grave economic and social to resign over his han- able to get into the build- Vatican. imbalances only worsened by dling of the Nagorno- ing despite the unrest. Pope Francis’ warning comes the coronavirus pandemic, it is Karabakh conflict with “Now our goal is that amid concerns that wealthier all the more important for us Azerbaijan. they don’t get out un- countries are buying up dispro- to acknowledge one another as Opposition politicians til Nikol Pashinyan re- portionate doses of vaccines to brothers and sisters.” and their supporters signs,” Ishkhan Saghat- the detriment of poorer ones. The pontiff called for generos- have been demanding elyan, a leading member “May the Son of God renew in ity and support to victims of the for weeks that Nikol of the opposition Dash- political and government lead- pandemic, singling out women Pashinyan step down naktsutyun party, was ers a spirit of international co- suffering ...(More on P4)...(22) over the Nov. 10 peace quoted as saying by the deal that saw Azerbai- Russian state Tass news jan reclaim control over agency. Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic large parts of Nagorno- Nagorno-Karabakh lies Turkish official says CoronaVac vaccine Karabakh and surround- within Azerbaijan but speed skating venue ing areas. The Russia- was under the control of completed 91.25% effective brokered agreement ethnic Armenian forces ISTANBUL- An experi- ended 44 days of fierce backed by Armenia since BEIJING- The construc- about 12,000 specta- mental COVID-19 vaccine fighting in which the a separatist war there tion of the National tors. During the Winter developed by Chinese bio- Azerbaijani army routed ended in 1994. That war Speed Skating Hall Olympics, it will host the pharmaceutical company Armenian forces. left Nagorno-Karabakh for Beijing 2022, also speed skating competi- Sinovac is 91.25% effective, Police detained 77 peo- itself and substantial known as the “Ice Rib- tions which offer 14 gold a Turkish health official said ple following clashes surrounding territory in bon” was completed medals. According to on Thursday. when thousands of pro- ...(More on P4)...(31) on Friday and will start the project manager, the Dr. Serhat Unal, an infec- ice-making in Janu- venue has made innova- tious disease expert serving ary of 2021 , according tive breakthroughs in its on Turkey’s medical board, Erdogan says Turkey would like to the Beijing Major design concept, techni- said the finding is based on better ties with Israel, criticised Projects Construction cal process, material se- early results of late-stage tri- Headquarters Office. lection and construction als in the country and added Palestine policy As the only newly-built techniques. It adopts a that the vaccine is safe. ANKARA- President competition venue for high-tech curved curtain CoronaVac is a so-called for those issues. Tayyip Erdogan said “The Palestine policy ice events in the Beijing wall system, which is inactivated vaccine devel- volunteers. nounced for CoronaVac. solidate data from other that Turkey would like is our red line. It is im- Winter Olympics, it assembled out of 3,360 oped by Sinovac Biotech. Turkey’s Health Minister Media reports said Sino- countries where trials to have better ties with possible for us to accept covers an area of about curved glass units, and Unal announced the initial Fahrettin Koca said in the vac delayed announcing took place. The efficacy Israel, but criticised Is- Israel’s Palestine poli- 80,000 square meters successfully creates a results following random- press conference the re- results from late-stage tri- rate announced by Tur- raeli policy toward Pal- cies. Their merciless acts and can accommodate ...(More on P4)...(23) ized trials involving 7,371 sults were the first to be an- als until January to con- key ...(More on P4)...(24) estinians as “unaccept- there are unacceptable,” able” and a “red line” for Erdogan said. produce and boost produc- Boat capsizes between Uganda Ankara, adding that in- “If there were no issues Modi makes telligence talks resumed at the top level, our ties tion through private invest- and Congo, killing more than 30 ment. between the two sides. could have been very outreach The two countries have different,” he added. “Through these agricul- KINSHASA- More than fight against COVID-19. had a bitter falling out “We would like to bring effort to tural reforms, we have 30 people have died in The dugout canoe cap- in recent years, despite our ties to a better point.” given better options to the an overnight capsizing sized near the town of placate strong commercial ties, Turkey and Israel, for- farmers,” Modi said in his on Lake Albert while Kolokoto, he said. expelling ambassadors mer allies, expelled each live address. He reiter- trying to return to Congo “A strong wind blew angry Indian in 2018. Ankara has re- other’s top diplomats in ated that the laws were a from Uganda, according and caused this inci- peatedly condemned Is- 2018 over clashes when farmers much-needed reform that to a civil society group. dent,” he said. “We rael’s occupation in the dozens of Palestinians would benefit farmers and Most of the victims were have so far recorded a West Bank and its treat- were killed by Israeli NEW DELHI- Prime Min- accused opposition parties trying to return illegally balance sheet provision- ment of Palestinians. forces on the Gaza bor- ister Narendra Modi held of spreading fears of farm- to Congo to avoid coro- ally of 33 dead people Speaking to reporters der. Ankara and Tel virtual talks with Indian ers’ exploitation by corpo- navirus restrictions, said and seven survivors.” after Friday prayers in Aviv continue to trade farmers Friday and asked placate tens of thousands landless. rations. Vital Adubanga, presi- He said owners must Istanbul, Erdogan said with one another. them to explain how the of farmers who are block- Protesting farmers fear “Those making big speech- dent of the Wangongo respect regulations that Turkey had issues with In August, Israel accused government’s agricultural ing key highways on the the government will es today did nothing for chiefdom in eastern prohibit night boats. “people at the top level” Turkey of giving pass- policies have benefited outskirts of the capital in stop buying grain at farmers when they were in Congo’s Ituri province. “More Congolese trad- in Israel and that ties ports to a dozen Hamas them, a month into mas- protests against new agri- minimum guaranteed power,” Modi said. Traffic between the ers have been forced to could have been “very members in Istanbul, sive farmer protests that cultural laws. The protest- prices and corporations The farmers present during countries is officially at be confined in Uganda different” if it were not ...(More on P4)...(32) have rattled his adminis- ing farmers say the laws will then push down Modi’s talks were from six a standstill as part of the ...(More on P4)...(26) tration. will dismantle regulated prices. The government states but not from Punjab Modi’s talks with support- markets, favor big corpo- says the three laws ap- and Haryana, two of In- ers of the legislation come rations, and make family- proved by Parliament in dia’s largest agricultural Coronavirus pandemic affects while his government is owned farms unviable, September will enable states whose farmers were Kazakhstan sends 100 portable making multiple efforts to eventually leaving them farmers to market their the first ...(More on P4)...(25) bilateral trade between Tajiki- ventilators to Tajikistan stan and Uzbekistan Kazakhstan has shipped on official humanitar- DUSHANBE- The coro- Russia, Kazakhstan and 100 portable ventila- ian assistance to Ta- BRUSSELS- European Union am- EU nations start assessing post-Brexit navirus pandemic has China, and the authori- tors to Tajikistan, the jikistan of December 10. bassadors were convening on affected the bilateral ties of the two countries Ministry of Industry The ventilators Kok- Christmas Day to start assessing trade deal with UK trade between Tajikistan planned to increase and Infrastructure De- chetav-4P are produced the massive free-trade deal the bloc and Uzbekistan. After the bilateral trade to velopment reported. in Kokshetau. Tynys struck with Britain that should kick trade by EU rules despite its Jan. est. There, too, approval is expected. steady growth, the two- 500 million U.S. dol- The ventilators were plant produces around off next next week when the acri- 31 departure from the bloc runs The strong show of unity is testa- way trade between Ta- lars within the next few dispatched according 500 ventilators a month. monious Brexit divorce process fi- out on New Year’s Day. Without a ment to EU chief negotiator Michel jikistan and Uzbekistan years. to the order of Presi- The ventilators are por- nally comes to an end. trade deal, it would have acerbated Barnier, who has worked relent- has declined this year. Meanwhile, the two- dent Kasym-Jomart table. They can be eas- After the deal was announced chaos at the border where checks lessly to keep all EU nations and the In 2015-2019, the bilat- way trade between Ta- Tokayev and the gov- ily used in ambulance on Thursday, EU nations already on goods will have to be increased groups within the EU parliament in eral trade between the jikistan and Uzbekistan ernment resolution or at home. (AKI Press) showed support for the outcome since Britain is fully out of the the loop of developments through- two countries increased over the first eleven and it was expected that they 27-nation bloc. out the torturous negotiations. more than 30 times: from months of this year has would unanimously back the The U.K. parliament is expected It took more than three years of 12 million U.S. dollars in valued at little more agreement, a prerequisite for its le- to approve the deal in the coming wrangling before Britain left the 2015 to 362 million U.S. than 300 million U.S. Court orders release of man gal approval. days, but the agreement will have bloc’s political structures last Janu- dollars in 2019. dollars, which was 7.0 Speedily approving the deal is es- to be applied provisionally, since ary. Disentangling the two sides’ Last year, Uzbekistan percent fewer than in charged in Daniel Pearl killing sential, since a transition period the EU’s legislature can only give economies and reconciling Britain’s was fourth among ma- the same period last KARACHI- A provin- if the family is success- during which Britain continued to its consent next month at the earli- desire for ...(More on P4)...(27) jor trading partners of year. This consisted of cial court in Pakistan ful in overturning the Tajikistan following ...(More on P4)...(28) ordered the release of a acquittal. British-born Pakistani However, Siddiqi said military veterans working as con- man charged in the 2002 the Sindh provincial tractors for the State Department, Truckers finally leave UK af- murder of American government is appeal- opened fire in the crowded traffic cir- ter days of virus gridlock journalist Daniel Pearl. ing the order to release cle killing 14 Iraqis, including a child, The Sindh High Court’s Sheikh. and wounding over a dozen more. DOVER- Truckers and that link Britain with release order Thursday The U.S. State Depart- The shooting of civilians by the con- travelers stuck in a France, as authorities overturns government ment in a series of tweets tractors prompted an international days-long gridlock at checked that drivers detention orders that said it was “deeply con- outcry, left a reputational black the English port of Do- could show the nega- Ahmed Omar Saeed cerned” by the court or- eye on U.S. operations in Iraq and ver started heading to tive virus tests now re- Sheikh, the key sus- der. brought into question the govern- France on Thursday af- quired to cross. pect in Pearl’s slaying, “We are deeply con- ment’s use of private contractors in ter the country partially Officials warned the should remain in cus- cerned by the reports of military zones. reopened its borders Relative of Blackwater victim in Iraq backlog could take tody. Sheikh was acquit- the December 24 ruling Nicholas Slatten was convicted of with Britain following days to clear, and many ted earlier this year of of Sindh High Court to says pardons ‘unfair’ murder, while Paul Slough, Evan international concern truckers will likely murdering Pearl, but has release multiple terror- Liberty and Dustin Heard were con- over a rapidly spread- spend Christmas wait- been held while Pearl’s ists responsible for the BAGHDAD- Faris Fadel had just into Baghdad’s Nisoor Square to victed of manslaughter in 2014 after ing new coronavirus ing in their cabs. family appeals the ac- murder of Daniel Pearl,” one word to describe the recent do a money transfer — a last min- a months-long trial in federal court in variant. Dozens of countries quittal. the department tweeted. pardoning by the Trump adminis- ute change in plans that would cost Washington. Each had pleaded inno- However, thousands of swiftly halted travel “The detention order is “We have been assured tration of four private security con- the 41-year old electrical engineer cent. On Tuesday, President Donald stranded truck drivers from the U.K. last struck down,” said Fais- that the accused have tractors convicted of killing Iraqi his life. Trump pardoned them. “This deci- still awaited their turns weekend after British al Siddiqi, the family’s not been released at this civilians — including his brother At the time, the Blackwater firm sion was wrong, it was unfair,” said to cross the English Prime Minister Boris lawyer. He said Sheikh time.” Sheikh’s lawyer — in a public square 13 years ago: had been contracted to provide se- Fadel, now 44 years old. “How can Channel, held up by the Johnson said London would be freed until the Mehmood A. Sheikh, Unfair. curity for U.S. diplomats in Iraq. It you release those who have blood on slow delivery of coro- and other areas of appeal is completed, but with whom he is not re- Fadel’s brother, Osama Abbas, had was four years after the 2003 inva- their hands?” Abbas left a wife and navirus tests. Trucks southern England had would return to prison lated ...(More on P4)...(33) been on his way to work that fate- sion of Iraq that ultimately toppled four children behind. The eldest was inched slowly forward to close all non-essen- ful day. He had just crossed a street Saddam Hussein. The four men, in her second ...(More on P4)...(29) to the ferries and trains tial ...(More on P4)...(30) www.outlookafghanistan.net www.thedailyafghanistan.com facebook.com/The.Daily.Outlook.Afghanistan facebook.com/The.Daily.Afghanistan Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 0093 (799) 005019/777-005019 Phone: 0093 (799) 005019/777-005019 Add: In front of Habibia High School, Add: In front of Habibia High School, District 3, Kabul, Afghanistan District 3, Kabul, Afghanistan Back Page Saturday December 26, 2020

Jalalabad Partly Ghazni Snow Kandahar Cloudy Mazar Rain and Herat Snow Bamiyan Snow Kabul Rain and Daily Outlook cloudy snow snow Weather Forcast 17°C 4°C 13°C 4°C 2°C -1°C 6°C

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Miller Sees Improvement Credible Islamic Institutions in Afghan Situation Term Taliban’s Fighting KABUL - US special operations erations forces train Afghan com- forces will be the last troops to mandos, to listen to troops’ views Illegitimate: Mohib leave Afghanistan, acting Defense on the war. KABUL - The gov- Secretary Christopher Miller says. According to Stars and Stripes, ernment of Indonesia To oust the Taliban regime af- the visiting dignitary met NATO has announced mul- ter the 9/11 attacks on the Unite and US forces’ commander Gen. ti-dimensional sup- States, special operation forces Scott Miller and President Ashraf port to Afghan peace were the first deployed to Af- Ghani. process, a statement ghanistan about two decades The US commitment to that Af- from the National Se- back. ghanistan’s security and the on- curity Council (NSC) America’s acting secretary of de- going withdrawal of about 2,500 said on Friday. NSA fense, who met US forces and mil- US soldiers by mid-January came Hamdullah Mohib itary leadership in Afghanistan, under discussion at the meetings. during a meeting with visiting of Afghans. Indonesian Ulema said: “I went there on purpose The defense secretary and Gen. Indonesian delegation thanked Council Head Jusuf Kalla said: because I’m going to get the real Miller discussed in detail the Jakarta support to peace pro- “I come to Afghanistan to meet deal from these guys.” work special operations troops cess and added the Taliban our brothers, sisters and ulema, Christopher Miller was quoted as would be doing in the next couple on-going fighting had been re- help in peace process and I a saying: “Their smart-ass com- of months. jected by credible international want to say that Indonesia will ments and insights led me to the Ghani briefed Miller on the steps Islamic institutions. Mohib continue its support to peace conclusion we’re in a good place.” his government had taken for added the continuation of fight- process.” He visited Camp Morehead south peace. He asked that the other ing has no legitimacy and it was Earlier, Indonesian delegation of Kabul, where the special op- side ...( More on P4)...(9) perpetrated for the bloodshed met ...( More on P4)...(10) Foreign Forces Indonesia Ready to Exist Before Host Afghan Peace Peace Deal Negotiations Will Lead to Chaos: Karzai

KABUL - Dr. Jusuf Kalla, the Indonesian Ulema Council chief and former vice president, says his country is ready to host the next round of intra- Afghan peace negotiations. The High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR) said Dr. Abdullah Abdullah met Dr. Ju- suf Kalla and the team headed by him on Wednes- day evening. KABUL - Former President Ha- In a statement from HCNR, Kalla said the Afghan- mid Karzai while talking to Arab istan government believed Indonesia could be the News has warned against with- Kabul Irked by Mullah Baradar peacemaker in the conflict-stricken country. drawal of foreign forces from The HCNR chairman thanked Indonesia for sup- Afghanistan before peace deal porting efforts for peace in Afghanistan. Abdullah between Afghan government and Visit to Taliban Camp in Pakistan referred the recent developments in the peace pro- the Taliban. KABUL - Afghanistan on Friday urged Afghan government anger comes fol- the region, posing a serious challenge to cess and next round of talks Karzai warned that a withdrawal the Pakistani government not to allow lowing the Taliban leaders’ meetings achieving sustainable peace in Afghani- While underlining Kabul’s determination to re- of international troops before a its territory to be used by insurgents with Pakistani officials, a series of video stan. According to the statement earlier, store permanent peace in the country, he called peace deal is signed by the Tali- and elements who insist on continuing footages emerged in which the Tali- the leadership of the Government of the violence a source of concern and urged a perma- ban and the Kabul government the war and bloodshed, according to a ban appeared among their followers, Islamic Republic of Pakistan assured nent ceasefire. would lead Afghanistan into statement from the Ministry of Foreign disclosing the existence of all Taliban the Government of the Islamic Republic Abdullah called for a significant reduction in vio- chaos. Affairs. leaders in Pakistan and acknowledging of Afghanistan that it would employ all lence, the reconciliation leader hailed Indonesia’s The pullout of the US-led forces The government of Afghanistan consid- their continued activities in Pakistani available means and potentials towards efforts for peace in Afghanistan. “You have a lot of by May 2021 is part of an agree- ers the closure of insurgent and terror- territory. reducing violence, establishing a cease- experience and we are ready to utilize it”. ment between Washington and ist sanctuaries and the cessation of their “It is with deepest regret and concern fire, and paving the ground for a peace- He also appreciated the Indonesian government the Taliban in February, which activities vital for the peaceful resolu- that some Taliban leaders were seen in ful resolution of the Afghan crisis. for its willingness to host the intra-Afghan peace brought the militants to the ne- tion of the Afghan crisis and ensuring the videos visiting training camps,” the The visit of Taliban representatives to parleys — an offer Jakarta has held out several gotiating table with the Kabul regional peace and stability, the state- MoFA said. Pakistan and their negotiations with times. government to reach a permanent ment said. The overt presence and activities of Af- Pakistani officials raised further hopes Dr. Kalla described relations between the two cease-fire and a power-sharing Afghanistan calls once again for the ghan insurgent elements and their lead- for taking practical steps toward stop- countries are good and are based on mutual val- government. continuation of sincere cooperation ers in Pakistani territory clearly violate ping the bloodshed and bringing ues and Indonesia opposes war and blood-shed in “A hasty withdrawal without the and genuine fight against terrorism and Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and about sustainable peace in Afghani- Afghanistan, also proposed cooperation in ensur- achievement of peace, without common threats. continue to cause crisis and instability in stan. (Pajhwok) ing peace in Afghanistan. talks ...( More on P4)...(11) Dr. Kalla ...( More on P4)...(12) Covid-19 Is Real Not Flue Afghan Writer Mourned, Works Girls Partake in Kabul or Government Propaganda Celebrated, in Mazar Cycling Race to Support was registered in late Febru- MAZAR-E-SHARIF - At a gathering in Security Forces ary this year and since then Mazar-e-Sharif, in the northern prov- compound in Chaman-i-Hu- 51,360 positive cases have ince of Balkh, the literary legacy of the zuri area of Kabul and ended been registered and among well-known novelist, journalist and lit- at Qarghai Lake, which is them 2,126 people have died erary scholar Rahnaward Zaryab was around 20 kilometers. while 39,920 others recov- celebrated on Thursday with the par- Mohammad Hussain Ha- ered. ticipation of writers, poets and local of- midi, head of Afghanistan However, the Ministry of ficials. Cycling Federation, told Pa- Public Health (MoPH) citing Titled “The Storyteller Who Became a jhwok Afghan News that the a survey had said over 10 Legend,” the event was organized by aim of the race was to sup- million people got infected Atta Mohammad Noor, the chief execu- port Afghan forces and make with coronavirus in Afghan- tive of the Jamiat-e-Islami Afghanistan KABUL - A number of girls preparations for foreign com- istan. party. from different provinces of petitions. KABUL - Some Afghans still Some people don’t believe in Speaking at the gathering, Noor pledged to Farhad Azimi, the governor of Balkh. the country on Thursday par- “Our aim is tell the pub- believe coronavirus is flue coronavirus: print all writings of Zaryab that have not “Unfortunately, some of Zaryab’s works re- ticipated in a cycling race in lic to prevent drugs in our and think the government Propaganda: Coronavirus is been published so far. main unknown. Many people tried to deal capital Kabul to support Af- society,” he said, adding has introduced the infection a new name of flue and pain- “I am prepared to print and publish all un- with his works from a discriminatory and ghan security forces. that the first position in the in a dangerous way, but ex- killer medicines are enough published assets of Ustad Zaryab in coordi- narrow-minded viewpoint,” said Sayed Twenty-five girls from Bamy- contest was secured by a perts say coronavirus is not for its treatment. Everything nation with his respected family,” said Noor. Hussain Fazel Sancharaki, former deputy an, Faryab, Ghazni and Kabul cyclist from Faryab named flue and is a reality. said about coronavirus is a “Soon we will rename an academic center minister of information and culture. attended the contest which Yaldoz Hashemi and the In Afghanistan, the first government’s propaganda. in Balkh province after Ustad Mohammad Rahnaward Zaryab passed away at the age commenced from Afghani- second position ...( More positive coronavirus case ...( More on P4)...(13) Azam Rahnavard Zaryab,” said Mohammad of 77 at a ...( More on P4)...(14) stan Olympic Committee’s on P4)...(15)