Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XI Issue No:192 Price: Afs.20

www.afghanistantimes.af www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimeswww.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes WEDNESDAY . FEBRUARY 07. 2018 -Dalwa 18, 1396 HS

AT News Report KABUL: The United States Forces-Afghanistan launched a Pashtun genocide, human rights addressed the protesters. All these series of precision strikes in violations and enforced parties expressed their full support northern Afghanistan in a direct disappearances in FATA and state to the protest and urged the effort to destroy insurgents’ imposed militarism and terrorism. government of Pakistan to abandon revenue sources, training facilities, The long march was highly its project of terrorism and meet and support networks. A press welcomed by Pashtuns in various the demands of the protesters. statement issued by the US- districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Addressing the protesters, Forces Afghanistan, said that over and Balochistan. The protest has Asfandyar Wali Khan asked the the past 96 hours, U.S. forces been changed into Pashtun Long government to arrest the Rao conducted air operations to strike March and sit-in continues in Anwar—culprit of Naqeeb Taliban training facilities in Islamabad since February 6. Mahsood killing and demanded a Badakhshan province, preventing According to reports, the sit-in is judicial commission to probe into the planning and rehearsal of composed on more than 10,000 extra judicial killings of Pashtuns terrorist acts near the border with Pashtuns, chanting slogans against in Karachi and other parts of that China and Tajikistan. The strikes state sponsored terrorism and said, country, adding the masterminds also destroyed stolen Afghan AT Monitoring Desk in a fake police encounter in “Terrorism is being imposed by the behind the criminal activities of the National Army vehicles that were Karachi—capital city of Sindh state of Pakistan,” adding police officer must be unmasked in the process of being converted KABUL: The Chief of Awami province, Pashtuns—across the “Pakistan and terrorists are the to trigger them into the court. to vehicle-borne improvised National Party, Asfandyar Wali board started peaceful protests two sides of the same coin.” Asfandyar Wali Khan pledged his explosive devices. During these Khan and Pakhtunkhwa Milli across the country, especially ANP Chief Asfandyar Wali, party support to the Pashtun Long strikes, a U.S. Air Force B-52 Awami Party head, Mahmood southern districts of Khyber PMAP Chief Mehmood Khan March until the government meets Stratofortress dropped 24 Khan Achakzai openly announced Pakhtunkhwa. On January 26 Achakzai, Jamiat ulema-e-Islam the demands. “Fate of FATA could precision guided munitions on their parties support to the youth Waziristan started a long leader Maulana Fazal Rehman and only be decided by the people of Taliban fighting positions, setting Pashtun long march in Islamabad. march from D.I. Khan—southern Qomi Watan party leader Aftab FATA,” he said. Moreover, AT News Report studying, but the poor people are a record of the most guided Following the extra judicial killing district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sherpao participated in the Asfandyar Wali said he is an deprived from getting job. “The munitions ever dropped from a B- of Naqeeb Mahsood on 13 January against the ongoing slow motion Pashtun Long March and Afghan and would...P2 KABUL: Ousted governor for the sons of poor people who are really 52. The aircraft has played a northern province of Balkh, Atta patriotic can’t find job even with leading role in Air Force Mohammad Noor, accused the higher education degrees from operations for decades, and was government of ousting the jihadi famous universities.” He warned recently reconfigured with a figures from their position that the current situation “that the conventional rotary launcher to increase its reach and lethality. particularly in the military. government has imposed” is no Continued U.S. strikes disrupt “About 80 per cent of the longer tolerable and people would Taliban support networks in army general who were forced to arise against what he called Helmand province, as well as retire are jihadi people,” Noor said, “injustice”. He has been criticizing destroy their sources of revenue referring to President Ghani’s the government since president such as illegal narcotics. Ongoing recent order by which 164 army Ghani approved his resignation last The Afghan government has center of the city will be closed off security officials including two wrote on Twitter. According to generals went to retirement. month. He says that he would strikes in Helmand continue to unveiled a new security strategy for and security forces will increase generals for negligence over the the new strategy, the security degrade Taliban revenue sources He also blamed the joblessness remain as the governor of Balkh and safe havens. U.S. strikes and Kabul in a bid to make the city safe their reconnaissance and attack on an Afghan Army Unit forces will also undertake search on the government, saying that until he is asked by the leadership ASSF raids have resulted in the from insurgent attacks – following intelligence activities. President near Marshal Mohammad Qasim operations in vulnerable areas of some people find job in high of the Jamiat party (he is a member removal of more than $30 million a series of deadly terrorist incidents Ashraf Ghani has already Fahim Military Academy in Kabul Kabul and the process will be government posts while still of the party) to step aside. of Taliban revenue since the that claimed at least 200 lives. The approved the plan which will be last month. “Findings reveal that expanded to all parts of the city. campaign began in November, Ministry of Interior on Monday implemented in a week’s time. seven high ranking officers “In the reconnaissance and 2017. “The Taliban have nowhere announced a package of measures “Inform the faithful people of including two generals committed intelligence portion, all side roads to hide,” said General John which includes seven priorities Kabul that your security plan was professional negligence. All seven coming to Kabul have come under Nicholson, commander, USFOR- composed of 92 classified items and finalized yesterday, and it will be are sacked and referred for further an operational plan and this is a A. “There will be no safe haven will be implemented in three phases. implemented within two weeks,” investigations. The process of comprehensive plan,” Interior for any terrorist group bent on Based on the new plan, side roads Ghani told a gathering on Tuesday. REWARD and PUNISHMENT to Ministry’s deputy spokesman bringing harm and...P2 connecting suburbs of Kabul to the The president has removed seven continue!” Presidential Palace Nusrat Rahimi said. (ToloNews)

Contract workers at US military bases in Iraq have said troops are leaving on flights on a daily basis. AT News Report KABUL: At least 35 militants were killed and 13 others were The US military is redeploying its Iraq, with nearly 4,000 deployed wounded in different operations launched by the troops from an American-led to support and assist local groups security force in different parts of the country within the past 24 hours. In a press release issued coalition base in Iraq to fighting Daesh militants. The here, Ministry of Defense, (MoD) said that Afghan Afghanistan following the defeat remaining personnel included National Army (ANA) in collaboration with of Deash in the country, Fox News special operations forces, logistical Afghan National Police (ANP) and National reported. workers and troops on temporary Directorate of Security (NDS) personal has The report said that it western rotations, the BBC reported. Iraqi conducted joint operations against insurgents in contractors at the base say US officials reportedly said their different areas of Nangarhar, Ghazni, Kandahar, troops began the drawdown over government reached an agreement Uruzgan, Zabul, Faryab, Baghalan, Takhar, the past week, with groups of with the US-led coalition to reduce Badakhshan, Nimroz and Helmand provinces. soldiers leaving the base on daily the number of troops in Iraq. The Statement said that in these operations 35 flights. However, the exact scale reported military buildup in insurgents including 10 Daesh affiliates were killed of the redeployment was unclear. Afghanistan is the latest sign of a and 13 others were injured. Afghan forces also According to various estimates, as growing US focus on Afghanistan arrested 11 insurgents and handed over them to of 2016, there were more 5,000 US as the primary conflict. judicial organs for further inquiry. The joint Afghan military personnel stationed in (ToloNews) operation was supported by airstrike. During these operations in the past 24 hours, 12 Taliban fighter killed, eight wounded and three suspects arrested in Darqad district of Takhar, 10 Daesh fighters were killed and two motorbike destroyed in Achin district of Nangarhar, nine insurgents were killed, one wounded and eight including a commander were arrested in Garmsir district of Helmand, also a vehicle full of explosive destroyed. Similar, three rebels were killed in Khanaqa district of Urzgan, one insurgents killed and two other wounded in Marof district of Kandahar and a stronghold with ammunition belonged to Taliban was destroyed in Wardoj district of Badakhshan. In past 24 hours, 12 planed clearing operations,19 Special Forces operations conducted in 11 provinces; also, Air forces conducted 95 aerial operations supporting Afghan National army he National JALALABAD: Police have including 12 strikes on enemy’s sanctuaries. seized 404 kilograms of hashish Directorate of and detained four individuals in Security says the Surkhrod district of eastern militants planned to take Nangarhar province, an official said on Tuesday. the explosives to Parwan Police spokesman Col. province – north of Kabul. Hazrat Hussain Mashriqiwal told AT News Report Pajhwok Afghan News 360 The National Directorate of kilograms of hashish were KABUL: At least 10 armed Taliban fighters were Security (NDS) operatives seized recovered at a checkpoint in killed following a joint clearance military operation a vehicle packed with explosives Dusaraka locality. The conducted by Afghan forces in northern Parwan in Kabul’s PD8, the security contraband, which was being province last night. A statement issued by Ministry smuggled from Kabul to agency said in a statement on Torkham, was skillfully placed of Interior (MoI) said that the operation was carried Tuesday. out jointly by Afghan National Civil Order Police in a vehicle, the police spokesman The statement said at least two said, adding three individuals (ANCOP) and Afghan National Army (ANA) in tons of explosives were loaded in the Khishki valley, Siah Gerd district of Parwan were arrested in connection with province, which as result 10 armed Taliban killed. the vehicle. “Terrorists wanted to the seizure. Separately, other 44 Weapons, ammunition, Improvised Explosive take the vehicle and the explosives kilograms of hashish were seized Devices (IEDs) and roadside bombs belonging to to Parwan province – in the north and a man detained from a Fielder the armed Taliban were also destroyed during the of Kabul,” the NDS statement said. car in the Daronta area of the operation, added statement. The Afghan National The NDS said the militants same district, Mashriqiwal added. Defense and Security Forces have stepped up wanted to use the explosives to The detainees had been Counter-Terrorism operations to suppress the make suicide vests and roadside introduced to the provincial insurgency activities of the terror groups and bombs for terrorist groups, the attorney office for investigations, improve security. statement added. (ToloNews) the police spokesman concluded. WEDNESDAY.FEBRURAY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

provinces of Helmand and They learn to create their own Kandahar are where most of the websites, mobile applications, poppy fields are and where the games and other web development majority of the production takes projects. "It's not easy for a girl to place while Herat lies along a key find a job and go to work outside smuggling route to neighboring Iran of her home in Afghanistan," said and beyond. The Taliban, who Hasib Rassa, the CTI project have been waging war against the manager. "Now, with just one Afghan government since 2001, are laptop at home, she can work heavily involved in poppy online and earn money and help growing, which has increased in her family." "The plan is to go big, recent years, all but halting to have more schools across government eradication efforts. Afghanistan," he added. As young Mohammadi says she and her Afghans increasingly use social teammates completed the game in media, 20-year-old Frahnaz one month and her brother was the Osmani, a student of graphic first person she showed it to. She designer at the CTI, decided to declined to give her brother's name, develop Afghan female character fearing for his safety and the stickers. Her stickers show a little family's because he worked with girl in colorful traditional Afghan Afghanistan named their squad Zimbabwe. American soldiers. Her dream, she clothing, a red dress and a green that will attempt to book a place The squad is identical to the says, is that one day the opium headscarf, with the sticker in the 2019 World Cup in the 15-man group announced to take poppy would be replaced by the messages in Dari, one of qualifying tournament that gets on Zimbabwe in a five-match ODI saffron crocus — so she put that Afghanistan's two official underway next month including series later this month in Sharjah. in the game, having the soldiers languages. "I wanted the world to Mohammad Shahzad. Asghar Stanikzai will continue HERAT, Afghanistan – A group a game: "Fight against Opium" was battlefields, but it's a way to encourage local poppy farmers to see that Afghan girls can do Shahzad has been sidelined by to lead the squad and would be of young Afghan women in the based on her brother's real-life combat drugs — through a cultivate saffron instead. "Saffron something, and that we can have a year-long ban from the ICC for expected to lead Afghanistan at the deeply conservative western Herat experience years ago as a translator computer game. is more expensive and it would be our own creations," she said. For charges related to their anti-doping World Cup should they get there. province is breaking traditional for U.S. troops in Helmand In the game, with five better for the country," she says. 18-year-old Samira Ansari, another code. Also included in the squad is Afghanistan will contest barriers as their war-torn country's province and the stories he told supporting lives, an Afghan soldier The Herat girls-only computer student at the center, coding was sixteen-year-old Mujeeb Zadran Group B in the World Cup first female coders in an her. mimics a real-life mission in programing school, Code to Inspire an unfamiliar, strange word. Now, who made his senior international Qualifier alongside hosts overwhelmingly male-dominated "Each time he came back home, Helmand to clear out drugs. The or CTI, was the brainchild of it's a pathway to her dream of debut against Ireland earlier this Zimbabwe, the Netherlands, tech field. he would tell us about the poppy soldier encounters various Fereshteh Forough, who was born becoming a web designer — which year before helping the Under-19s Scotland, Hong Kong and whoever The game they created at the fields, the terrible mine blasts, obstacles in the process: the an Afghan refugee in Iran and only she hopes to study after a two- to a World Cup semi-final in New finishes as the runner-up from Code to Inspire computer training battling opium traffickers and enemy hiding in tall corn fields, returned to Herat after the 2001 year course at the center. "When I Zealand. WCL Division Two in Namibia center in the city of Herat, the drugs," Mohammadi recounted to land mines, drug traffickers and fall of the Taliban. A former Herat first heard about coding, I laughed The teenager joined Rashid later this month. Afghanistan provincial capital, underscores The Associated Press. hidden heroin labs. Afghanistan is university professor now living in and wondered what it means," she Khan and Mohammad Nabi in squad: Asghar Stanikzai (capt), Afghanistan's struggle to eradicate She and her colleagues at the the world's top cultivator of the the United States, she seeks to said. "But when I found out that securing a place in the Indian Mohammad Shahzad (wk), Javed vast opium poppy fields ruled by center thought that if they create a poppy, from which opium and break gender barriers and empower all these creative and skilled people Premier League when the auction Ahmadi, Ihsanullah Janat, the Taliban. game, it would raise awareness, heroin are produced. The country girls to learn to code as a way to designing websites had started was held in late January and he Najibullah Zadran, Rahmat Shah, For 20-year-old Khatera especially among the young. It's produces more opium than all other change their lives. The school from coding, I became very was snapped up by the Kings XI Samiullah Shenwari, Nasir Jamal, Mohammadi, one of the students not dropping bombs form planes countries combined, according to houses over 80 girls, both high interested," she said, breaking into Punjab. Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, at the center, it was more than just or battling insurgent in the U.N. estimates. The southern school and university students. a smile. (FOXNEWS) Mujeeb appears to have won Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Zadran, his place ahead of left-arm spinner Sharafuddin Ashraf, Dawlat Amir Hamza who has experience Zadran, Shapoor Zadran. Real patient of playing ODI cricket in (CRICKET365) or suicide bomber? Theperils Last year Iran issued 100,000 work visas to Afghans and of being a have reportedly doubled the quota for this year. Kabul in the hope of getting visas. Once they have visas they try to get ambulance Mahmood khan, work in Iran. Last week Iranian embassy officials in Afghanistan announced driver Asfan d yar Wali su p p or t some changes for issuing visas to Afghan nationals. Afghan police have Pashtun long march Iranian embassy also stopped increased searches of the 300 Euro cash guarantee for ...P1 be, as prescribes in the Pashtuns should be given right over emergency vehicles documents of Pakistan, adding no their resources. Afghan applicants. since recent attack – a one can change his origin and Achakzai said his party would “I have received a one year deadly delay in an nationality. continue its support to Pashtun labor visa,” said one applicant “Maulan Fazal Rehman, Long March until the government Abdullah. Currently, the Iranian already dangerous city Maulana Samiulhaq and Aftab meets the demands, adding clearing consulate in Herat issues two As Kabul ambulance driver Zemari Ahmed Khan Sherpao and all the FATA from landmines, planted by types of visas. Labor visas which Pashtuns in Pakistan are Afghans,” Pakistan’s security forces, justice are valid for one year are issued Khan raced a bleeding patient to he added. to Naqeeb Mahsood, eliminating for 100 Euros while the tourism hospital on Thursday, he came to In the meantime, Mahmood terrorists on Pashtun soil, full stop visa for one month is about 80 one of the city’s latticework of Khan Achakzai in his address to to Pashtun Genocide and ongoing Euros. checkpoints. A long line of vehicles the protesters said Pashtuns have militarism and terrorism in the area “We issue work permits to had suddenly been waved through, been facing state brutalities since are the conditions to be fulfilled them and they go to Iran and work but Khan was ordered to stop, long time and their rights were by the government. there for one year and come back hand over his ID and open the rear usurped. He said Pashtuns are Moreover, Jamiat Ulema-e- to Afghanistan and remain here for door so a police officer could check peace-loving people, adding a Islam chief Maulan Fazal Rehman six months, after six months, they if his patient was real. number of Pashtuns in extremist said Rao Anwar—the police should again consult us and again we issue In the week since the Taliban and terrorist groups have been be presented before the court, them with work visas,” said given training and support by the instead of providing him safe haven detonated an explosives-laden state of Pakistan. in Islamabad by the security Mohammad Afkhami, Iran’s ambulance on a busy shopping “Pashtuns were in cold war agencies. general consul in Herat. street, killing 105 people, life has against the former Soviet Union He said extra judicial killing of According to Iranian officials, become harder across the Afghan and currently security agencies of Pashtuns are tolerable. Cases this year Tehran increased the capital – but particularly so for its Pakistan have been engaged to should be decided in court. Fazal number of visas to Afghans by 100 paramedics. utilize Pashtuns in war against Rehman also announced his party Hundreds of Afghans are lining up visas every day. the consulate reports that up to percent. Based on statistics, last “Police were very nervous Afghanistan and International support to the protest. outside the Iranian consulate in the TOLOnews’ correspondent 2,500 Afghans visit the Iranian year Iran issued 100,000 work with me,” Khan, 55, told the community in Afghanistan,” In addition to that, Aftab western province of Herat to get Samim Faramarz who has visited consulate in Herat on a daily basis visas to the Afghans. Guardian. “When I moved half a Achakzai noted. Ahmed Khan Shepao—chief of Achakzai further went on Qomi Watan Party also visited the metre forward by mistake, an saying that the national and sit-in and addressed the protesters. officer rammed the butt of his gun international terrorists have been He said state brutalities against against my windshield. It makes provided havens by Pakistan on innocent Pashtuns and human me so sad. My patient was Pashtun soil, which could no more rights violations in FATA must be suffering. Ambulances used to have be tolerated. stopped. He said Qomi Watan respect, but now everyone is He said Pashtuns in FATA can Party stands in strongest unity and suspicious of us.” eliminate the entire terrorist solidarity with the Pashtun Long People are adapting to a new network on their soil, if the state March. Naqeeb Mahsood was hardship in the endless war. of Pakistan turns around its declared innocent by an support to terrorist groups. investigation team. Pashtuns in According to the Kabul ambulance “Countless Pashtuns have Pakistan, especially in FATA want service, which operates the city of been slaughtered by Pakistan’s the international community to 4.5 million’s fleet of 20 official security agencies for their vested take serious notice of slow motion Officials said weapons and explosive devices were recovered after the operation that also involved foreign troops. vehicles, callouts have dropped by interests, based on destabilizing Pashtun genocide, state sponsored 40% since the attack, as Afghanistan and undermining US terrorism and human rights ambulances face long, invasive led war on terror,” Achakzai added. violations in FATA and trigger At least ten insurgents were killed district to clear the insurgent provide more details about the yet commented over the operation. searches on their way to hospitals He furthered time has arrived Pakistan into the court of Justice. in a special operation in northern hideouts.” However, he did not operation. The Taliban have not (ToloNews) in the militarised green zone. Many to confront pro-terror and anti- It’s time for the civilized world to Parwan province on Monday people, say drivers, are now using Pashtun policies of Pakistan in change the Pashtun long march into night, the Ministry of Interior taxis instead. “It’s more order to establish durable peace in Pashtun spring in order to reach (MoI) confirmed in a statement on Pashtun areas in Pakistan and the joint goals of peace and comfortable in taxis at the Afghanistan as well, adding stability in the region. Tuesday. checkpoint now,” said Khan. The operation was launched Rarely has Kabul needed a nimble, on a Taliban hideout in Seyagerd first-aid trained emergency district of the province in which response more. In the past two the forces destroyed the Taliban’s weeks, Taliban and Isis insurgents hideout, according to the Newair campaign statement, adding that “the forces have killed more than 130 people, also discovered weapons and an unprecedented strafing in a city explosive devices during the previously seen as safe enough to expandstothenorth operations.” attract thousands of refugees from ....P1 destruction to this country.” repeated boasts and attempts. “The Taliban planned and the war-torn provinces. Over the past year, U.S. precision Faced with failure on the launched insurgent attacks in the Even for the hard-bitten drivers strikes and the efforts of the battlefield, they have turned to district,” it said. The statement did of the Kabul ambulance service, the Afghan Air Force and Afghan targeting civilians as the only tactic not provide further details. bloody churn has come as a shock. Special Security Forces have they have left. Meanwhile, Mohammad Haroon At the ambulance station in the prevented Taliban fighters from “The Taliban cannot win on Mubarez, a security police official centre of the city, one hoses down capturing Kunduz City. The the battlefield, therefore they in the province claimed that the the gurney of his vehicle. There Taliban continue to fail in their inflict harm and suffering on attempts to recapture lost territory innocent civilians,” said Nicholson. foreign troops were also involved has not been time to fix the glass in other areas. “All they can do is kill innocent in the operation, adding that “the of another’s windshield, shattered In 2017, the Taliban did not capture people and destroy what other operation was launched in the by the blast. (THEGUARDIAN) a single provincial capital, despite people have built.” WEDNESDAY .FEBRURAY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

We have been in Shiberghan for the past three months, but no one has so far helped us, we ask the government to provide us cooking dishes, winter clothes and food items to AT Monitoring Desk the ministry of labor, social affairs, help get rid of martyrs and the disabled, accepted KABUL: Kabir, 70, spends his that there were issues surrounding current problems,” days in Kabul’s finance ministry the processing of pensions. He said she said. trying to access an entire year of measures were being taken to pension payments that he is owed. overcome the challenges, and that SHIBERGHAN: Internally The former officer at the National the government had delegated a displaced families in northern Directorate of Security (NDS) task force to reduce delays. He also Jawzjan province are complaining said, “I worked for 40 years to highlighted steps the ministry had they lack food and firewood and protect the stability and security taken to set up bank accounts for fear a large number of their children of my country but now, when I its retired workers, allowing and women may die of cold if the am old and weak, my rights are pensions to be paid direct into their government does not pay ignored. “For the last seven months accounts. And he added that new attention. Ghulam Hussain, who I’ve been wandering the corridors biometric security measures were along with his family fled Darzab of the finance ministry hoping to set to clamp down on so-called district and migrated to Shiberghan, Heaven knows, even if our we are and how strong we feel, make progress,” said Kabir. “But “ghost civil servants” – fake the provincial capital, due to politicians and generals don’t, that when we’re fighting in the enemy’s instead I’m mistreated and identities created by fraudsters clashes between Taliban and while we haven’t conclusively lost neighborhood, he has the humiliated. Officials just swear at hoping to collect pensions that had Daesh, said they are in a bad the war in Afghanistan, we surely advantage. That helps explain why me and tell me to leave their offices. not been earned. Ahmadzai said, own pension on hotels.” “Each US dollars is still due and that will situation. haven’t won it. And if we haven’t we didn’t win in Vietnam or Iraq. Every day there are further “We’ve already paid last year’s department is causing a great deal be paid soon. “Likewise, we’ve “I live with my family in a tent won the war by now, we’re surely Fighters from the region know delays.” Former civil servants are pensions in full and 75 per cent of of distress to those seeking their paid the bulk of military pensions without having a smallest life not going to. This fact was every nook and cranny and where angry at government delays over civil servant pensions for this year. pension payments,” agreed payments. The process is a little facility, the cold weather is hammered home— not for the first to hide, and they have allies around pension payments, claiming that The remainder will be paid in the Hasibullah, who used to work at time-consuming but the full seriously harassing us,” he said. time— late last month. In four every corner. That is something excessive red tape, corruption and near future. “We’ve worked the ministry of agriculture, amount will be provided in the near He said a number of children attacks over just nine days, more basic training at Fort Benning can’t a lack of transparency have lead to irrigation and livestock. The 65- future. The problem is that and women could die of their overtime to get this done and to exposure to extreme weather than 130 people were killed by equal. months of delays. IWPR spoke to address any issues we’ve been year-old said that there was “no everyone blames everybody else.” terrorists. Some by the Taliban, Exhibit C is what we should numerous retirees who complained doubt some retired civil servants Ramazan Bashardost, a member of conditions if they were ignored. made aware of. Next year there Bibi Meraj, a displaced woman some by ISIS. As if it matters. have learned in earlier wars about that the ongoing battle to obtain should be no problems because were being treated unfairly”. parliament for Kabul, said that the They struck inside Kabul’s counterfeit confidence, which from Qush Tepa district, said that their money had left them feeling we’ve created a much better “People have to wait months and issues were down to a combination they lacked any resources and lived Intercontinental Hotel. They conjures up shades of Vietnam: depressed and humiliated. Some system. Pensioners should be have to pay bribes in order to get of corruption and a breakdown in struck at an Afghan military “Peace is at hand” (except it in a tent amid cold weather. She claimed that government pleased.” Despite his reassurance, anywhere,” he continued. “I had the relationship between the two said no one had helped them. complex. They struck in Save The wasn’t). And shades of Iraq: departments were now demanding many former civil servants remain to pay bribes myself.” When ministries. He added that Children’s offices in Jalalabad. And “Mission accomplished” (except “We have been in Shiberghan bribes to guarantee pension sceptical. Hashemi, a legal affairs IWPR put details of these lawmakers were failing to serve for the past three months, but no in the most lethal of the attacks, it wasn’t). Now it’s President payments were issued. Figures analyst and retired academic, individual cases to the ministry of their country, adding, “Parliament they struck with a bomb-packed Trump saying of Afghanistan, one has so far helped us, we ask from the ministry of labor, social claimed he had not received his labour, social affairs, martyrs and is at the heart of corruption here. the government to provide us ambulance inside Kabul’s “ring of “What nobody else has been able affairs, martyrs and the disabled pension for the last two years. the disabled, officials blamed the Most members of parliament steel,” supposedly the most secure to finish, we’re going to be able to cooking dishes, winter clothes and show there are currently some “The process is inefficient and the delays on the ministry of finance. choose to defend their personal food items to help get rid of current sector of the city. do it.” And, in the wake of last 145,000 former civil servants in government has failed to find a Ahmadzai said, “The [finance] interests rather than the national But “most secure” in month’s terrorist attacks, reporters problems,” she said. Afghanistan who are entitled to solution,” he said. “Talk is cheap ministry doesn’t cooperate with interest.” In the meantime, “If the government has no Afghanistan is only relative. asked the general who leads the receive a pension. Official but officials need to put their us – it’s ignoring its pensioners continue to struggle to Neither the capital, nor the U.S. Central Command if victory ability to help the displaced retirement age for the bureaucrats promises into practice. Failure to responsibilities.” However, a gain what is rightfully theirs. Nahid families, then it should at least population nor the government is in Afghanistan is still a possibility. is 65 and the maximum time pay these pensions on time is senior official from the finance (not her real name) used to work secure. Nor is the U.S. mission, Gen. Joseph Votel’s chillingly ensure security in their own areas employees are allowed to work in breaking the law so the ministry described the allegations in the personnel department of the to facilitate the return of displaced whatever it actually is today. That predictable answer? “Absolutely, government is 40 years. After government is breaking its own as baseless. Mohammad Aqa ministry of information and people to their homes”, Meraj is the terrorists’ intent: to prove absolutely.” Trouble is, previous retirement, each former employees rules.” Wahid, another retired civil Kohistani, a deputy minister, culture. The 65-year-old said, “I added. Halima Sadaf, a provincial that nothing is secure, even after presidents and previous draws a monthly pension for the servant, said, “My brother was a claimed a major issue was the have been coming here to the council member, told Pajhwok 16-plus years of costly American commanding generals have been rest of their lives. Once they die, police officer who was killed in the ministry of labour’s failure to treasury for the last eight months. Afghan News that around 2,000 efforts— with a 100,000 troops telling us that for 16 years now. the same pension is transferred to line of duty. But for the last ten provide an accurate figure for the Whenever I come officials tell me displaced families from Darzab there at the peak— to exterminate And Exhibit D is simply their wife or husband, and when months I’ve been unable to get number of retired workers. He said, to go away and come back next and Qush Tepa districts were in the terrorists and pacify the Afghanistan’s anything-but- they die the money is given to the access to his pension. “I’ve “We’ve still paid the bulk of week. “We’re treated like we’re a bad situation in Shiberghan and nation. simple history. It has been invaded couple’s children up until they travelled from my home in Takhar pension payments to the ministry charity, as though officials don’t their needs and demands had not Who knows what President time and time again, beginning reach the age of 18. Abdul Fatah to Kabul and then back to Takhar of labour, social affairs, martyrs have to pay us. But this is our right. been responded so far. She claimed Donald Trump might have said before the birth of Christ with Eshrat Ahmadzai, spokesman for all this time. I’ve spent half my and the disabled. Only 14 million (MINA HABIB, NPR) to have shared the problems of about Afghanistan in his State of Alexander the Great. Then Arabs, displaced people with relevant the Union if not for those four Mongols, the British, the Soviets. organs. “Some women and children murderous attacks, right on the eve All swept through and for the of these families are ill and they of his address? As it turned out, most part, all were swept away. have no resources for treatment.” even though the president is Now, with more than 2,200 “I don’t know for what our shoring the U.S. force back up to American deaths already, it’s our officials have kept blankets and about 15,000 troops, America’s turn. food items in warehouses. The longest and currently its biggest The most recent attempt, by displaced families are in a bad war rated just 34 words. Stirring the Soviets in 1979, was an episode situation and in need of these platitudes about “our warriors in I covered as a reporter with my items,” she added. However, Afghanistan” and “their heroic own eyes. Within days on the Afghanistan is going through a inspector who lands up on death spouse.Soraya is then forced to Afghanistan. Then there were three Faizullah Sadat, provincial natural Afghan partners,” but none that ground it became obvious that, for transitional period says film maker row after being accused of killing choose between her work, and her suicide attacks, not in Kabul disasters management authority actually pointed toward victory. all the superior military force of Roya Sadat. Her feature in her husband. Soraya writes to the husband and her two children. The where we live, far from there, but head, said 600 families had received That’s because victory is no closer the invaders, it would never be as competition at the International President, who, counselled by his film has already attracted attention they said security was a problem. food items and clothes and the rest now than it was at the outset. Yet potent as the fervent resistance of Festival of Asian Film in Vesoul, wife, agrees to hear her story. As for one particular scene which may So we decided we would make the would also receive the same in near few in Washington are talking the mujahideen. The longer the war France, shows the clash between the film unfolds, former law be a spoiler for those who have film ourselves. Moby Productions future. He said that around 4,000 about bringing those troops home. went on, the more determined I saw strict tradition and broader choice. student Sadat also tells a story of the chance to watch ‘A Letter to helped us.” In spite of the difficult families form Sar-i-Pul and Faryab They ought to examine the the Afghan fighters become to For several years, campaigners political power. The plot actually the President’. The slap-on-the- circumstances, Sadat never forgets provinces and Qush Tepa and evidence instead of their egos. It is expel every last one of the in and around the film industry, rests on the power struggle stairs scene where Soraya gives as her film is a work of art. The camera Darzab districts of Jawzjan had there, for all the world to see. occupying forces from their most noticeably in Hollywood, but between the official authorities and good as gets after her violent and plays with screens and veils, been displaced to Shiberghan city. Exhibit A is our own history country. The Taliban today are also in France and elsewhere, have the local elders in the countryside, alcoholic husband lands one on her shades of shadows and light, Most or around 2,000 of these of the last 16 years, a history of similar. They are tough, they are been vociferous about raising the as well as former warlords and the face in front of, and to please, his textures like old stone, metal, fabric families are from Qush Tepa and mission creep. Our original vicious, and they can bide their profile and number of female film Taliban. Soraya’s faux-pas, in the father, her father-in-law. It took and sand. The love of cinema and a Darzab districts. “We are trying purpose was noble, and necessary: time. Like ISIS in other parts of directors. eyes of her father-in-law and thus about seven years to get the film strong hope of change in Afghan to distribute rice, oil, flour and we attacked in 2001 to rid the world, they don’t have to hold Their efforts have paid off and her husband, is that she defends a into production after completing society, especially through culture warm clothes to all the displaced Afghanistan of the vermin who territory to win. They just have to the industry has begun to make teenage girl married to a much older the script. “We’d received funding and a younger generation gives families so they don’t face the attacked us on Sept. 11. The aim? hold a nation in the grips of their more space for, and to encourage, man accused of adultery and who offers from some producers at Sadat and Dildar the determination shortage of food and clothes in Annihilate the Taliban who were terror. The more than 130 people women film makers. is bent on killing his young workshops at film festivals outside to continue. (RFI) winter,” he said. (Pajhwok) hosting al-Qaeda and leave Osama killed late last month are only the However, it’s easier to make a bin Laden’s soldiers without the latest piece of proof that it works. noise in some places than others. safe haven from which they had We’ve been fighting there for Amongst the latter is Afghanistan planned their attacks. But that almost a generation. While we where director Roya Sadat works mission has long ago come and haven’t lost, we also haven’t won. with her husband Aziz Dildar and gone. The latest intelligence And positive public where they have set up a concludes that terrorist groups like pronouncements notwithstanding, production company called Roya al-Qaeda and ISIS now have safe there’s no convincing sign that we Film House. Her film ‘A Letter to havens in parts of more than two ever will. Greg Dobbs is a former the President’ (Namiye Ba Rahess dozen countries on several Emmy Award-winning Gomhor) in Dari and Farsi, continents. Whatever we correspondent who covered news premièred in France in February eventually might accomplish in in more than 80 countries for two at the 24th International Festival Afghanistan is utterly moot. television networks, the author of of Asian Cinema in Vesoul, in the Exhibit B is what we should two books, and a former op-ed east of France. Shot in Afghanistan, have learned in earlier wars about columnist for The Denver Post. indoors and out, it stars Leena alien terrain: no matter how smart (HUFFINGTONPOST) Alam as Soraya, a chief police

GHAZNI CITY: Security forces captured a large catche of weapons and explosives and killed 14 rebels during an operation in Deh Yak district of southern Ghazni province. The Afghan National Army’s 203 Thunder Military Corps in a statement said the weapons depots were seized in Jat-Kandar, Balai and Salimanzaio villages during the joint operation of the Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers and police. The military uniforms were also seized during Security forces suffered no statement added that the depots the operations that also resulted causalities in the operations, the contained explosives, 255 deferent in the killing of 14 Taliban statement said. The Taliban have types of mines and some insurgents. Another four not yet commented about the machineguns. Ten military combatants were wounded. incidents. (Pajhwok) WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Weighing around 12 tonnes, the 15-metre-long Agni-I can carry payloads up to 1,000 kg and is capable of hitting a target beyond 700 km.

India on Tuesday successfully test-fired its short-range nuclear capable ballistic missile Agni-I with a strike range of over 700 km from a test range off the Odisha coast, defence sources said. The indige- Integrated Test Range (ITR) at the instruments and naval ships right The missile, which has already nuclear warheads. The Agni-I was nously developed surface-to-sur- Dr Abdul Kalam Island, formerly from its launch till the missile hit been inducted into the armed forc- developed by the Advanced Sys- face missile was launched as a part known as Wheeler Island, the the target area with pin point ac- es, has proved its performance in tems Laboratory (ASL) in collab- of a periodic training activity by sources said. Describing the trial a curacy,” the sources said. The so- terms of range, accuracy and le- oration with the Defence Research the Strategic Forces Command “complete success”, they said that phisticated Agni-I missile is pro- thality, the sources said. Weighing Development Laboratory (DRDL) (SFC) of the Army to consolidate all the mission objectives were met pelled by a solid rocket propellant around 12 tonnes, the 15-metre- and the Research Centre Imarat operational readiness, they said. during the test. “The trajectory of system and is equipped with a long Agni-I can carry payloads up (RCI). The missile was integrated The state-of-the-art missile was the trial was tracked by a battery specialised navigation system that to 1,000 kg and is capable of hit- by the Bharat Dynamics Limited, launched around 8:30 am from a of sophisticated radars, telemetry ensures it reaches the target with a ting a target beyond 700 km. The Hyderabad. mobile launcher at Pad 4 of the observation stations, electro-optic high degree of precision, they said. missile is also capable of carrying (Hindustan Times) Sr i Lan k a Police ar r est t w o su sp ect s an d a can d id at e The United Nations Human Rights Bangladesh and Myanmar have Council (UNHRC) on Monday agreed on a two-year timeframe for said the possible "acts of genocide the repatriation of hundreds of at t em p t in g t o and ethnic cleansing" by the My- thousands of Rohingya refugees. anmar army against the Rohingyas The United Nations General As- could incite a religious conflict in sembly (UNGA) also urged My- the South Asian region. "Myan- anmar to end the military campaign b u y p ollin g mar faces a very serious crisis - against Muslim Rohingyas. My- with a potentially severe impact anmar and Bangladesh had earlier on the security of the region," UN in December last year, formed car d s an d High Commissioner for Human Joint Working Group (JWG) to Rights, Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein, said handle the repatriation of Ro- in a statement. Bangladesh Prime hingya refugees. More than Minister Sheikh Hasina said earli- 655,000 Rohingyas have crossed NICs er in January that the country's into Bangladesh since August 25, forests and natural environment 2017, escaping a military crack- Sri Lanka Police request the candi- lic rally yesterday said a group of had been "severely" affected due down in Rakhine state, which dates contesting the local govern- independent candidates has pro- to the large influx of the Rohing- many countries and human rights ment election son February 10th vided money for the suspects to yas from Myanmar, particularly bodies have described as ethnic to carry out their propaganda with- buy the polling cards. The two in Cox's Bazar, the Dhaka Tribune cleansing. The Rakhine state is in the legal framework specified in suspects have revealed that there reported. Bangladesh's Foreign home to a majority of Muslims in the Local Authorities Elections are 56 people in their network. Minister A.H. Mahmood Ali on Myanmar, who have been denied Ordinance. At a media briefing yes- The police are conducting investi- Sunday said that the government citizenship and long faced perse- terday in Colombo, Police Media gation to find the candidate re- is planning to hold multilateral cution in the Buddhist-majority Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) defend this law. The bench decid- Nawaz decides not be party Spokesperson Superintendent of sponsible for the voter fraud. The talks to have a permanent solution country, especially from the ex- Police Ruwan Gunasekara reveled Police Spokesman said strict legal to the Rohingya crisis. Last month, tremists. (ANI) Mian Saqib Nisar on Tuesday ob- ed to proceed ex parte against in matter Nawaz has decided not served that malafide is not ground Nawaz in this matter. They, how- to become party in matter related an attempt to buy polling cards in action will be taken also against to strike down the law which ever, offered that if the counsel to the interpretation of Article Beruwela. He said that two peo- the candidate, to set an example paved the way to former prime desires, he may join the proceed- 62(1)(f) of the constitution and has ple were arrested in Beruwela area for candidates contesting future minister Nawaz Sharif to become ings at any time. Justice Ijazul Ah- submitted a reply to the SC. “A for buying polling cards and Na- elections. The police will present party head of Pakistan Muslim san said that it was a unanimous notice was issued by this honour- tional Identity Cards (NICs) on the information about the candi- League-Nawaz (PML-N). The decision that Nawaz Sharif is dis- able court in the captioned matter behalf of a candidate. The suspects date to the courts and he will be Nepal must have paid the water bills and elec- charged after obtaining advice of three-judge bench headed by CJP honest. While referring to Article relating to interpretation of Artice resumed the hearing of petitions 63 he wondered that how a person 62(1)(f) of the Constitution of Is- tricity bills of the voters in ex- the Attorney General, the Police against Nawaz to become party who has been declared dishonest lamic Republic of Pakistan. In re- change for the polling cards. The Spokesman said. He said if the sus- head after his disqualification. SC can control honest people. “Can sponse to the said notice, my rep- two suspects and the candidate on pects were found guilty in the punish recruiters whose behalf the suspects were court they will losing their voting admits petitions against Elections he be allowed to become party resentative Mr Azam Nazeer Act, issues notices to Nawaz, oth- head?” he asked. Farogh Nasim Tarar, ASC made appearance be- attempting to steal the public's rights for seven years. In addition, ers Azam Nazeer Tarar, the coun- counsel for Awami Muslim League fore the court on January 31, and right for democracy, have been pro- in the event of the candidate se- whoexploit sel for Sharif family told the bench (AML) Chief Sheikh Rasheed stat- on my request sought time, en- duced before the Kalutara Magis- curing a seat at the local election, that Nawaz is not interested to ed that the law is a mockery of the abling the undersigned to consult trate Court. The main suspect was he will lose the seat. The police engage counsel in this matter be- Constitution and Panamagate judg- the Party leadership since the mat- remanded till February 12th while spokesman therefore requested cause he feels that his party elect- ment. The bench further asked ter is of far reaching consequences other two have been released un- the island wide candidates to en- migrant ed him as the head and it is a mat- Rasheed’s counsel how the law is relating to the body politic of the der strict bail conditions. Minister gage in propaganda activities only ter of PML-N and parliament to violating the constitution. country. (Tribune) Rajitha Senaratne addressing a pub- within the legal framework. workers:UN We are not garbage collectors,SCtells Centre for filing incomplete affidavit

The Supreme Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the Centre for filing an 845-page affidavit containing incomplete information about solid waste management across the country and said the apex court is not a “garbage collector”. The top court declined to take the affidavit on record and said the government cannot dump “junk” before it. “What are you trying to do? Are you trying to impress us? We are not impressed. You are trying to dump everything on us. We are not going to accept it,” a bench comprising Justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta said. “Don’t do this. Whatever junk you have, you dump it before us. We are not garbage collectors. Be absolutely clear about this,” the bench said. The bench directed the Centre to file a chart within three weeks indicating whether the states and union territories have constituted state-level advisory boards in accordance with the provisions of Solid Waste Management Rules 2016. It also directed the government to state in its chart the date the advisory boards were constituted in the states and UTs, names of members of the boards and also details of any meetings conducted by them. Poor waste disposal stink reaches Centre; minister flags Chandigarh as laggard At the outset, the counsel appearing for the Centre said they would file an 845-page affidavit in the matter during the course of the day. However, when the bench posed KATHMANDU: Nepal must punish recruitment agencies that charge certain queries, the counsel was unable to answer them properly. The counsel informed the court that they migrant workers illegally high fees to find jobs abroad, leaving them have received information from 22 states about constitution of state-level advisory boards and have compiled vulnerable to exploitation, the United Nations said on Monday. Re- data received from the respective states.“There is no point in filing affidavits if they contain nothing. We are mittances sent home by about 4 million Nepalis, mainly working in not taking this affidavit on record... You have not seen it and you want us to see this affidavit,” the bench construction or as domestic servants in the Middle East, Malaysia and observed. The court had on December 12 last year asked the Centre to follow up on the matter of solid waste South Korea, make up nearly 30 percent of the Himalayan nation’s management with all states and UTs and furnish details before it. (BBC) gross domestic product, state officials say. Rights groups such as Amnesty International say poor migrants become trapped in a cycle of debt and exploitation as they have to borrow large sums of money at high interest rates to pay recruitment agencies who arrange jobs for Turkey seeks to create employment them overseas. Once abroad, migrant workers often have their pass- ports confiscated and find themselves trapped in forced labour – hav- opportunities for Rohingya with Bangladesh ing to work for years to clear their debts – activists say. The Nepali government allows private recruitment agencies to charge migrant work- Tourism and Culture Minister Numan Kurtulmus on Tuesday offered to develop joint projects with ers a fee of $100 to process their papers, but a top UN official said the Bangladesh to provide employment opportunities to Rohingya refugees in the country. Since Aug. 25, costs can be as high as $1,750. The government should “revoke the nearly 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have crossed from Myanmar's state of Rakhine into Bangladesh, licences of recruitment agencies that charge fees to migrants … or have according to the U.N. The refugees are fleeing a military operation in which security forces and Buddhist abused their human or labour rights,” said Felipe Gonzalez Morales, mobs have killed men, women and children, looted homes and torched Rohingya villagesAddressing the UN special rapporteur on the human rights of migrants. “Licences tourism ministers' conference of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Bangladeshi capital should be subject to regular renewal with compliance with human Dhaka, Kurtulmus said Turkish businesspeople could launch projects that would pay Rohingya refugees rights obligations,” he told a press conference in Kathmandu after a half of the minimum wage. He also praised the Bangladeshi government for hosting the refugees. "Bang- week-long visit to Nepal to meet state officials, rights groups, migrants ladesh government not only hosts this important event but also houses hundreds of thousands of Rohingya and their families. Nepal should sign legally binding bilateral agree- Muslims, who were forced to leave their houses," Kurtulmus said. At least 9,000 Rohingya were killed in ments with destination countries to protect its overseas workers, who Rakhine state from Aug. 25 to Sept. 24, according to Doctors Without Borders. In a report published on often do not receive or cannot understand their contracts, leaving them Dec. 12, 2017, the global humanitarian organization said the deaths of 71.7 percent or 6,700 Rohingya were vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, Morales added. caused by violence. They include 730 children below the age of 5. (AP) WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Hong Kong court EU throws open door to frees three democracy Balkans with 2025 target for leaders, but warns membership against future The European Union sought on Tuesday to reinvigorate the membership ambitions of six acts of dissent Balkan states and reclaim the re- gion as its own amid growing Hong Kong’s highest court freed Russian and Chinese influence, three young leaders of the city’s setting 2025 as a goal for Serbia pro-democracy movement on and Montenegro to join. Euro- pean Neighbourhood Policy and Tuesday, including the public face Enlargement Negotiations Com- of the protests, Joshua Wong, in a missioner Johannes Hahn speaks stark reversal of an earlier ruling, during an interview with Reuters but it warned against future acts at the EU Commission headquar- of dissent. The unanimous deci- ters in Brussels, Belgium Janu- sion was made by a panel of five ary 18, 2018. Picture taken Jan- judges on the Chinese-ruled city’s uary 18, 2018. REUTERS/Fran- Court of Final Appeal, led by cois Lenoir Partly symbolic to Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma. Wong, breathe life into the bloc as Brit- 21, Nathan Law and Alex Chow ain prepares to leave, the Euro- had served roughly two months in pean Commission set out a strat- jail before they were granted bail egy to bring Western Balkan na- in November. Before that, a mag- tions into the fold if they meet istrate’s court had ruled the activ- required reforms, marking a ists should serve community ser- change after years of fading in- vice and a suspended sentence for terest. “If countries are willing, a charge of “unlawful assembly” then this is possible, but it is after they and others stormed into Beijing with one of their biggest political challenges in decades. But this ambitious,” Johannes Hahn, the a fenced-off area in front of gov- non-jail sentence was challenged by Hong Kong’s Department of Jus- bloc’s enlargement commission- ernment headquarters in Septem- tice that pushed for a review, eventually leading the Court of Appeal to er, said in Brussels before unveil- ber 2014. That sparked a night- impose jail terms. The five judges, including a non-permanent foreign ing the plan at the European Par- long standoff with police and was judge, Lord Leonard Hoffmann, said in the judgement that they had liament in Strasbourg. “We will seen as a key trigger for the “Um- “quashed the sentences of imprisonment” by the Court of Appeal. not repeat the mistakes of the brella Movement” that blocked They stressed, however, that Hong Kong was a law-abiding society and past,” he told reporters, in a major roads in the city for 79 days that “future offenders involved in large-scale unlawful assemblies in- veiled reference to what most EU HELSINKI -- Russia has deployed sertion, if true, was "a very seri- cow. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry in a push for full democracy, pre- volving violence” will be subject to stricter guidelines laid down by the officials believe was the rushed additional nuclear-capable missiles ous matter," according to the Bal- Peskov wouldn't verify the mis- senting Communist Party rulers in Court of Appeal. (CNN) accession of Romania and Bul- in its Baltic Sea exclave of Kalinin- tic news agency BNS. Poland, sile deployment to Kaliningrad garia in 2007 and the poorly man- grad on a permanent basis, accord- NATO launch exercises amid con- specifically, but said any weapons aged migration of eastern. ing to Lithuania's president, who cerns over Russia From Kalinin- deployment "on Russian territory called it a threat to Europe. grad, which is sandwiched between is exclusively a sovereign issue for President Dalia Grybauskaite told Lithuania and Poland, Iskander the Russian Federation. "Russia Kuwait French police reporters after visiting NATO missiles can reach targets in both has never threatened anyone and troops in the central Lithuanian countries as well as Baltic neigh- is not threatening anyone. Natu- UN condemns detain 27 town of Rukla that "Iskander mis- bors Latvia and Estonia, all of them rally Russia has this sovereign offers siles are being stationed in Kalin- NATO members. The head of the right. It should hardly be cause for during raid at ingrad for permanent presence as Russian parliament's defense com- anyone to worry," Peskov said. we speak." She called it a threat mittee, Vladimir Shamanov, con- The high-precision Iskander mis- continued $900,000 not only to Lithuania but to "half firmed the missiles' deployment in siles deployed in Kaliningrad can migrant camp of all European countries." NATO remarks carried by Russian news be fitted with a conventional or a Deputy Secretary General Rose agencies. He added that the move nuclear warhead and have a range toaid PARIS — French authorities say Gottemoeller, who also visited the was a response to a NATO build- of up to 310 miles. In the past, chemical they have detained more than Rukla base where the military alli- up near Russia's borders, with the Moscow deployed them to Kalin- Palestinian two dozen people during a po- ance's multinational battalion is number of U.S. weapons in Po- ingrad temporarily for military lice raid at a forest camp shelter- stationed, said Grybauskaite's as- land a particular irritation to Mos- drills. (AFP) ing Vietnamese migrants hoping refugeesin to get to Britain. The regional attacks prefecture says police conduct- ed the operation at the camp in Syria northern France in the hopes of arresting human smugglers. It Kenyanoppositionlawyer in Syria Kuwait announced on Tuesday wasn’t immediately clear if any that it has granted $900,000 to the of the 27 detained were traffick- United Nations Relief and Works ers. The prefecture said Tuesday Agency for Palestine Refugees in that similar raids were being con- chargedwithtreasonover the Near East (UNRWA), re- ducted elsewhere in France. Fur- sponding to a plea made by the ther information wasn’t imme- agency over the Syrian crisis, re- diately available. The operation ported the Palestinian news agen- at the camp near the town of Odinga's'swearingin' cy (WAFA). This contribution rep- Lens was carried out on the or- resents the first pledge towards this ders of an investigating magistrate. appeal this year and Kuwait’s con- The camp is known to shelter tribution will go towards life-sav- Vietnamese seeking to get to Brit- ing assistance provided to the Pal- ain, but unlike other camps in estine refugees remaining inside northern France hasn’t been dis- Syria, said the agency. mantled because the land belongs UNRWA said the conflict in to nearby Angres. Copyright Syria continues to disrupt the lives 2018 The Associated Press. All of civilians, resulting in death and rights reserved. This material injuries, internal displacement, ex- may not be published, broadcast, tensive damage to civilian infra- rewritten or redistributed. Calls advocating the establishment of an independent and impartial structure and persistent humani- (WP) international commission to probe chemical attacks in Syria have risen tarian needs. “Palestinians are at the United Nations Security Council in recent days, with the US among those worst affected by the accusing the Russia on Monday of impeding efforts in this regard. US conflict. Of the estimated 438,000 Ambassador Nikki Haley to the UN blamed Moscow with obstructing Palestine refugees remaining inside US soldier the adoption of a resolution condemning chlorine gas attacks in Syria. Syria, over 95 percent (418,000) Haley told the Security Council that there was "obvious evidence from are in critical need of sustained hu- dozens of victims" to corroborate the chlorine attacks in Eastern Ghou- manitarian assistance to meet their found dead ta. "Now we have reports that the Assad regime has used chlorine gas most basic food and shelter needs,” A Kenyan opposition politician have not arrested Odinga. Cam- symbolic presidential oath of of- against its people multiple times in recent weeks, including just yester- was charged with treason on Tues- paigning lawyer Miguna Miguna fice in Nairobi, Kenya January 30, it added. “Almost 254,000 are in- day," Haley said, referring to the Syrian regime head Bashar al-Assad. ternally displaced, and an estimat- in Germany day over the symbolic presiden- was arrested on Friday in a dawn 2018. REUTERS/Baz Ratner Ken- UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu tial “swearing in” of opposition raid on his home. He was granted ya’s lawyers’ association said Mi- ed 56,600 are trapped in hard-to- was briefing the Council on the work being undertaken by the UN and reach or inaccessible locations,” it near train leader Raila Odinga. Kenyan op- bail of 50,000 Kenyan shillings guna was being denied fair process. the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) position leader Raila Odinga of the (£355.8) but has remained in po- “Once again the state is wil- explained. UNRWA Commission- Fact Finding Mission (FFM) to look into all allegations of the use of er General Pierre Krähenbühl said National Super Alliance (NASA) lice custody with his whereabouts fully violating Mr. Miguna’s rights chemical weapons in Syria. “New reports by the FFM are pending. station is pictured before taking a sym- unknown until he appeared in by moving him without any no- in a press release: “We are deeply Should they conclude that there has been the use, or likely use, of grateful to Kuwait for this addi- bolic presidential oath of office in court in Kajiado County, neigh- tice to his lawyers or his family chemical weapons in any of these alleged incidents, our obligation to Nairobi, Kenya January 30, 2018. bouring Nairobi, on Tuesday to and, in order to frustrate their ac- tional contribution in support of enact a meaningful response will be further intensified,” Nakamitsu the 2018 Syria Regional Crisis REUTERS/Baz Ratner/File Pho- hear the charges. He was charged cess to him, to a court stationed added. She said that the complete destruction of the regime’s 27 above- to The news re-ignited street un- with “being present and consent- outside Nairobi,” Isaac Okero, Appeal at a time when a dramatic ground facilities should be completed within two months, and added financial crisis threatens our abili- rest and one person was killed in ing to the administration of an oath president of the Law Society of that the FFM was due to submit a report “very soon.” The majority of demonstrations in the west - the to commit a capital offence, name- Kenya, told reporters. Odinga ty to provide these life-saving ser- allegations involve the use of chlorine gas. Meanwhile, allegations of vices to Palestine refugees in and heartland of support for Odinga, ly treason”, the charge sheet said. supporters demonstrating against chemical weapon use were continuing, she said, “including only this who maintains he was the rightful Miguna refused to enter a plea, the charges blocked roads and from Syria.” In 2018, UNRWA past weekend in the town of Saraqeb.” According to news reports, nine requires $409 million for its hu- winner of elections that returned saying his case should be heard in clashed with police in the western people have been treated with breathing problems, after a bomb be- President Uhuru Kenyatta to a court in Nairobi, privately-owned city of Kisumu, a Reuters witness manitarian response to the Syria lieved to be filled with the toxic gas was dropped on the opposition- regional crisis in order to provide power last year. Two opposition Citizen Television reported. Ken- said. held town, in the Idlib province . Nakamitsu said that the situation made lawmakers present at the “swear- yan opposition leader Raila Odin- Police used tear gas and fired aid, including cash assistance, food, BERLIN — The U.S. Army it “abundantly clear our continuing and collective responsibility to en- water, shelter and medical assis- ing in” one week ago were arrested ga of the National Super Alliance warning shots to disperse them. sure that those responsible are held to account.” (CNN) says a soldier who was de- and later released. So far police (NASA) holds a bible as he takes a (Reuters) tance. ployed to Europe as part of a mission to reassure eastern European allies has been found dead in Germany. The Atlantic Resolve mission said Tuesday that 1st Sgt. Nicho- SouthAfricanparliament speaker: las S. Amsberry was found near a train station in the Ger- man town of Parsberg, and stateof thenationaddresspostponed emergency services pro- nounced him dead at the The speaker of South Africa’s par- would be postponed, piling added Mbete to give his State of the Na- growing pressure to step down as scene. It said in a statement liament, Baleka Mbete, said on pressure on embattled President tion address at the opening ses- head of state since he was replaced that the cause of the 34-year- Tuesday that the president’s state Jacob Zuma. South Africa's Presi- sion of Parliament in Cape Town, as leader of the ruling African Na- old’s death on Sunday is cur- of the nation address, which had dent Jacob Zuma arrives with February 11, 2016. REUTERS/ tional Congress (ANC) in Decem- rently under investigation. been scheduled for Thursday, Speaker of Parliament Baleka Mike Hutchings Zuma has faced ber. (Reuters) Amsberry, who was original- ly from Mesa, Arizona, was deployed to the Joint Multi- national Readiness Center in nearby Hohenfels. He was with the 1st Infantry Division and was sent to Europe in Lebanese leaders say Israel September as part of Atlantic Resolve, a mission meant to reassure eastern allies after threatens border stability Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula. Lebanon’s top three leaders accused Israel on Tuesday of threatening ment Speaker Nabih Berri agreed and gas have elevated tensions be- Copyright 2018 The Associ- the stability of the border region between them, amid rising tension over to act to stop Israel from building tween Israel and Lebanon. Calm ated Press. All rights re- territorial and maritime boundaries. Lebanese President Michel Aoun a wall on Lebanese land at the bor- has largely prevailed along the fron- served. This material may not meets with Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, and Lebanese Parliament der, and infringing on an energy tier since 2006, when Israel fought be published, broadcast, re- Speaker Nabih Berri at the presidential palace in Baabda, Lebanon Feb- block in disputed waters. Argu- a war with Lebanon’s heavily- written or redistributed. ruary 6, 2018. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir ments over the wall and Lebanon’s armed Shi‘ite Hezbollah move- President Michel Aoun, Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, and Parlia- plans to explore for offshore oil ment. (AP) WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 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 Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.afghanistantimes.af Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Advisory editorial board Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir Graphic-Designers: Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 By Rahimullah Yusufzai dard of living. Infamously, the then taking a Syrian refugee registered their boats have sunk; and even how Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press British Prime Minister David Cam- and living in Turkey in return for a they were eaten by sharks, accord- Summer 2015 saw the fixation of eron used the term “illegal migrants” Syrian in Europe. The main purpose ing to a recent article in the Daily international media outlets upon and claimed that the refugees “are of the agreement was said to be to Mail. Somehow, despite all of the “Europe’s Migrant Crisis”. It was the not fleeing from persecution but discourage the “illegal migration” fatalities that they have faced over The constitution says largest wave of mass-migration that seeking a better life.” It took the and prevent people smuggling and the past few years, they are still de- Europe has faced since the end of body of young Aylan Kurdi to be human trafficking. These discussions scribed as “migrants”. Why should the Second World War. Al-Jazeera washed up on a Turkish beach be- took place almost three years ago the label “migrant” bother you? Article 136: instigated a debate about the media fore governments started to adopt when more than one million people Quite simply, because what labels are The administration of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, based on the units of the central government coverage of people crossing the a more humane approach towards arrived in Europe across the Medi- used really matters. In fact, they can and local offices, shall be regulated according to the law. The central administration shall be divided into Mediterranean to seek a life in Eu- the crisis, and use the word “refu- terranean Sea. As the general ten- sometimes put such people into several administrative units, each headed by a Minister. The local administrative unit shall be a province. rope; many prominent media out- gee” more often. Consequently, Eu- dency in European countries was to their difficult situation. Labelling The number, area, divisions and related provincial organizations as well as number of offices shall be lets followed suit. This led to a gen- ropean governments accelerated take further measures to increase someone as a “migrant” is the easi- regulated on the basis of population, social and economic conditions, as well as geographical location. eral consensus that the media has a their asylum procedures and in- border security, they collaborated est way for a government to side- humanitarian responsibility to de- creased their refugee quota for Syr- with Libya to fortify the North Af- step its responsibilities towards peo- fine the correct terminology used ians fleeing the war in their coun- rican state’s coastguard and finance ple seeking asylum. Being a migrant in the rhetoric. Al-Jazeera an- try. Syrian asylum seekers granted “third world countries” to keep mi- means that it is up to the state to nounced its decision to use the term refugee status were mostly registered grants within their borders, result- look after you and provide shelter, “refugees” instead of “migrants”; it and investigated in Greece, Turkey ing in a significant decrease of peo- work and education whether you are explained that, “The umbrella term and Lebanon . The situation for asy- ple entering Europe via Italy and allowed to enter that country or not migrant is no longer fit for purpose lum seekers from other places, how- Greece. According to the Interna- as a refugee. Syrian refugees in Turk- when it comes to describing the hor- ever, was quite contradictory. Refu- tional Organisation for Migration, ish refugee camp On paper, being a ror unfolding in the Mediterra- gees coming from West Africa for in 2016 more than 360,000 people refugee is a right for anyone who is nean.” The Guardian also stated that instance, continued to be considered arrived in Europe by sea and this fleeing from violence and persecu- “refugees”, “displaced people” and as “illegal migrants” attempting to number fell to approximately tion; being a migrant is an umbrella “asylum seekers” are more accurate enter Europe without legal docu- 170,000 in 2017. Taking these sta- term for people who seek to move terms than a “catch-all label like ments. The alleged reason behind tistics into consideration, one can to another country for other rea- migrants”, emphasising the impor- the determined “illegal migrants” hardly insist that there is still a sons. However, this definition has tance of using these terms more of- discourse of most European states “Migrant Crisis” in Europe. How- not always been adopted in public ten as reporting “should be humane was to “break the link between set- ever, does that mean there is no discourse and debate. Instead, the as well as accurate.” The reflection ting off in a boat and achieving set- longer a crisis? “Migrant” label as a term “migrant” has been manipu- of this debate in politics, however, tlement in Europe.” Countries barrier Today, the rhetoric used in lated to be perceived as a person was quite the opposite. The initial across the continent make it clear the discussion about refugees and who seeks better wages. We need to and overwhelming reaction of poli- to refugees that coming to Europe migrants seems to have lost its im- acknowledge the discursive connec- ticians was one of an old-school directly will not grant them the asy- portance. Most mainstream media tion between “better life” and a “vol- residential Palace in a statement has informed about a new populist “queue jumpers” discourse lum they are seeking, as per their outlets continue to cover the news untary” decision to migrate, yet which claimed that the main moti- “one-in, one-out” agreement with from the Mediterranean Sea and what has been experienced in Libya security plan for capital Kabul to be functionalized in the vation of the people crossing the Turkey. As such, the EU attempts Libya with regard to them being over the years is one of the major Mediterranean was to have better to deter people from entering due “migrants” sold in auctions; how examples to show that one cannot near days. A task has been assigned to the Ministry of Inte- job opportunities and a higher stan- to the agreement which sees Europe they were tortured and abused; how know the main. rior (MoI) to prepare the plan and it will be implemented in coordination with the Ministry of Defense and the National Di- rectorate of Security (NDS). Based on reports, the security plan G u n fir e on u n iver sity gr ou n ds has to be implemented in seven priorities, 52 categories and three stages in vulnerable parts of the capital. This is a com- mendable initiative by the government to secure the national and sign a ls a su r ge of tr iba l power international community here in Kabul. Following the terrorist By Miriam Pemberton crumbling republic. Militias were ly unnoticed episode of gun-use political rhetoric, and know how attacks in highly secured zones in the capital, residents have re- raised in this way, but ordinary on school grounds. Two tribes to say the “right” things. Their There was a time that I remember folks and tribes also took the op- warring over the tender to build a words, however, do not necessar- peatedly criticized the government for the inappropriate security vividly in which videos of fierce portunity to arm themselves in cafeteria for the institute were ily tell us much. Lest the blood of arrangements, resulting in deadliest wave of terrorist attacks. gunfire exchanges within the anticipation of the worst. Sadly, filmed firing live rounds at each the Iraqis be shed in vain Inaction grounds of Iraq’s neutral and pro- the basic human survival instinct other; the video was leaked in the has with time become the default Recently Pakistan-based terrorist groups carried out a heinous tected spaces would elicit shock. is but one explanation of the grow- days following the incident. The setting: protect yourself, because In the years since the 2003 inva- ing trend. From blood money de- voice of an unidentified male stu- the state cannot. The adoption of act of terrorism against Inter-Continental Hotel in which several sion, however, schools and hospi- mands to futile quarrels, firearms dent can be heard saying, “Live fire such an attitude and its salience in national and foreign guests were killed, followed by a deadly tals have been controlled by vari- and the escalation of violence have on university grounds; good God.” today’s Iraq has elevated the sta- ous armed non-state actors, whose become the easy answer to the An unnamed security officer quot- tus of local tribes which tread a terrorist attack near the old building of the Ministry of Interior growth has reshaped global per- absence of effective law and order, ed by Sumaria News confirmed careful line between state support spectives on Iraq. As a result, and weaknesses in the enforcement that “random shots fired using light and contention. Their role in poli- and other parts of the country. It is very much disgusting that scenes of reckless shootings no mechanisms that do exist. The set- weaponry resulted in the injury of tics prior to America’s invasion government announce security plan for Kabul, after every ter- longer appal or offend. Regardless tling of scores continues to trans- two students from the institute.” was defined by the state, but the of the context of war in which form educational settings into un- Details of their age, their injuries shrinkage of state institutions in rorist attack, but it has yet to be materialized. Last year after the schooling and education takes safe battlegrounds, and the use of or subsequent progress were not the past decade has reversed that deadliest truck bombing on 31 May, President Ghani commis- place, the militarisation of academ- firepower, occasional or frequent, given. Their transfer to a nearby situation. As a result, we have wit- ic institutions still invites more rid- has become an important hallmark hospital was all that the source nessed tribes amassing greater sioned his security experts to develop a new security plan for icule than serious media attention. of the new Iraq. Black and white: disclosed. He did confirm, though, power. Criticism of state paraly- Out of the black-hole torn open Iraq’s ‘new’ enemy is nothing new that “security forces stepped in sis often centres on the govern- Kabul, but unfortunately, it was kept in cold storage or not fully by America’s “100” neo-colonial A lethal gunfire incident occurred and broke-up the dispute” and ment’s weakness to command its funded. Time is running very fast to translate words into action. “orders” came wielders of weap- during the last week of January at that an inquiry into the “fierce militia formations. This should ons whose penchant for violence the Institute of Technology at Zaa- quarrel” had since been launched. now be amended to include the A comprehensive security plan is the need of the hour. In addi- has been made easier by the stock- faranya University, south-east of It is clear that security forces and surge of tribal politics. tion to that, identification of those who help enemies is also very piles that littered the streets of the Baghdad. It was the latest relative- state employees have mastered (Truthout) much necessary. The security plan for Kabul should be included increased presence of police officers, NDS operatives and se- curity guards, electronic National Identity Card issue should be resolved as soon as possible to make easy photo ID checks, use of surveillance whether it is human or video, use of certain in- Resignat ion of US f r om Pakist an struments, like metal detectors or X-ray scanners, banning items seen as a potential hazard in secured areas, random searches, increased enforcement of existing rules and regulations that were previously overlooked, background checks, warning the public of the perceived threat and most importantly, security should be tighten on the routes, entering the Kabul and populations across the city should be registered and permanent security personnel should be deployed to every zone. Moreover, the community should be mobilized and in this regard, special tasks should be assigned to religious scholars, public representatives, influen- tial tribal leaders and civil society to influence the general pub- lic in support to our security institutions. Security plan could be fruitful in the presence of tight check and balance. 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. Iran Russia WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

clear reductions and insisted that a mistake. The lessons of the Cold any future agreement also should War are that nuclear wars must not address missile defenses, precision be fought and that arms races can- conventional weapons, and even not be won. Of course, we must pre- conventional forces in Europe. Oth- serve a strong and effective nuclear ers have argued that the next round deterrent to protect us and our al- of nuclear arms reductions must in- lies. The United States’s nuclear clude other nuclear powers. While forces and planned modernization addressing this complicated set of are already more than capable of issues in new treaty negotiations is sustaining that deterrent for decades. hard to envision in today’s environ- But arms control agreements, such ment, the same was true in the as the New START treaty, also ad- 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, when By Rafael Gonzalez Crespo tries have no alternative but to stop vance U.S. security interests. Con- America faced an even more intrac- adhering to these agreements." Ac- sider the details: On-site inspections table and threatening Soviet Union. The newly-released US nuclear doc- cording to Crespo, the US nuclear provisions have enabled both Rus- Instead of shying away from such trine poses a challenge to global doctrine poses a serious threat to sian and American inspectors to see broader discussions, Washington peace and stability, Colonel Rafael international stability. The analyst that obligations have been met and should welcome them. The govern- Gonzalez Crespo, a military analyst argues that while Washington depicts that threats have been reduced. Each ment should expand the agenda to and specialist on Eastern Europe, itself as the guarantor of interna- side has carried out more than 100 include our concerns about Russia’s has told Sputnik, warning that Wash- tional security, in reality it is the US such inspections, and exchanged vast stockpile of tactical nuclear ington's approach to nuclear war- who undermines the world's safety: thousands of pages of information weapons, new delivery vehicles such fare may turn Europe into a large- "Perpetual military exercises in Eu- about current and future missile sys- as long-range, nuclear-armed torpe- scale military theater. Most of the rope, in the South China Sea, off tems. New START gives us invalu- does, and violations of other agree- security threats mentioned in the the coast of North Korea […] have able and irreplaceable information ments. We cannot predict whether new US Nuclear Posture Review are nothing to do with peace and stabil- about Russia’s nuclear arsenal, and new arms-control talks will produce imaginary, Colonel Rafael Gonza- ity, quite the opposite." Referring provides insight into their future results, let alone what the next arms- lez Crespo, a military analyst and to concerns voices by top EU offi- capabilities. Our implementation of control agreement might look like. specialist on Eastern Europe, told cials about the US nuclear strategy, this treaty also helps demonstrate But we know what happens when Sputnik Mundo. "The US justifies the colonel noted that the EU re- our continued commitment to nu- we lack the predictability and trans- the need for steps described in the sponse should be "much more clear clear reductions and leadership in the parency that verified treaties pro- [nuclear] doctrine by threats com- and unambiguous," since the risk global nonproliferation effort. We vide. And we know that the next ing from a number of countries," that Europe may again turn into a By Michael McFaul, Jon Wolfsthal dential election. Tragically but nec- heads and delivery vehicles — with have achieved these nonprolifera- deal will not happen without direct the colonel said. "It is worth to be large-scale military theater, with the each permitted no more than 1,550 tion goals with no reduction in our negotiation with our Russian coun- mentioned that laws of all countries essarily, the United States and our use of nuclear weapons as well, has Vladimir Putin is no friend of the allies must seek to develop more strategically deployed offensive nu- own security, or in our ironclad terparts. We can contain Russia in determine [the term] of an external seriously increased. "I don't exclude United States. The Russian president clear weapons and 700 launchers for commitment to our allies and theirs. some spheres, push back against its threat and the principle behind the effective strategies for containing that [US President] Donald Trump seeks to undermine many core in- Russian aggression, just as we did those weapons. This represents the Reductions in our nuclear arsenals, destructive behavior, promote dem- response to it similarly. First, one doesn't support the growing aggres- terests of the United States, our al- lowest level of nuclear forces in both a robust inspection regime, and ef- ocratic values and human rights, and can speak about illegal aggression siveness of the US foreign policy," during the Cold War. Yet despite all lies, and our partners. In 2014, Pu- this, we must continue to manage countries since President Dwight D. forts towards our global commit- still engage with the Russian gov- only if it was not motivated or pro- Crespo remarked. "Apparently, he tin annexed territory in Europe, seiz- Eisenhower sat in the Oval Office. ments to reduce nuclear weapons ernment on nuclear stability and voked. The US claims that Russia's cannot control the situation. Per- our nuclear competition and shape ing control of Crimea, and then in- the strategic nuclear landscape with Even as we mark this success, we serve American national interests. arms control. We successfully pur- military assertiveness is growing but haps, he is a good businessman, but tervened in eastern Ukraine, spark- Despite serious tensions over other sued this complicated strategy dur- remains silent about NATO's expan- Russia through tough, principled and are reminded that New START’s one can't to say the same about his ing a war during which more than provisions don’t last forever. The security and economic issues, the ing the Cold War. We can do so again. sion towards Russia's borders and the ability to rule the state. [Presiden- effective arms control – again, just 10,000 people have died. In 2015, as we did during the Cold War. Pres- 10-year agreement, which went into United States and Russia have con- So let’s celebrate this terrific mile- alliance's increasingly provocative cy] requires entirely different skills Putin intervened militarily in Syria tinued to implement this treaty not stone of the current treaty today, military drills, particularly, in the which he, in my opinion, lacks." ently, both the United States and effect on Feb. 5, 2011, will expire to prop up one of the most ruthless Russia have met their obligations in 2021. The Trump administra- because of altruism, friendship, or but also begin work tomorrow to Black Sea." This is an aerial view of The colonel noted that although dictators in the world, and protects third-party enforcement, but be- the five-sided Pentagon building, under the New START arms reduc- tion’s aversion to anything negoti- extend and strengthen arms control Trump won the 2016 presidential Bashar al-Assad’s rule even in the cause of mutual self-interest. A self- agreements with Russia in the fu- headquarters of the United States elections, those Americans who vot- tions treaty signed by President ated by the Obama administration, face of repeated use of outlawed Barack Obama and Russia’s Dmitry combined with legitimate concern enforcing agreement in the service ture, not as a favor to Putin, but as Department of Defense, in Arling- ed for him do not influence US do- chemical weapons. And in 2016, of American security objectives is ton, Va., in 1975 Crespo underscored mestic and foreign policy in any way. Medvedev in 2010. In meeting this over Russia’s violation of the Inter- a policy to enhance our security. Putin violated American sovereign- treaty obligation, the United States mediate-Range Nuclear Forces Trea- the hallmark of a successful arms The time to begin negotiating the that Russia's actions to boost its de- At the same time, Trump does not control agreement. In 2013, Russia fenses is nothing but a tit-for-tat ty by stealing data and spreading and Russia have reduced both the ty, or INF, has halted any serious next major arms-reduction agree- have support from the US establish- propaganda to influence our presi- refused offers to pursue deeper nu- response to the actions of the US ment that holds the reins of the number of deployed nuclear war- dialogue about arms control. That’s ment is now. (WP) and its allies. Thus, the idea of a country's military forces and other threat coming from Russia does not key state institutions. On February hold water, he pointed out. What 2, Washington released the new US seriously disturbs the military ana- Nuclear Posture Review, which lyst about the new American doc- named Russia, North Korea, Iran and trine is the possibility of using atom- China as potential threats to Amer- P alestin e con spir a cy, ic weapons in response to non-nu- ica's national security and envisaged clear attacks. This runs counter to the possibility to use atomic arms laws which say that a military re- in "extreme circumstances." Com- sponse should be proportionate, menting on the US document, the im passe a n d way ou t Crespo highlighted. "This doctrine Russian Foreign Ministry rejected obliterates all international laws and the US accusations of aggressive agreements in the field of conven- behavior, interventions, breach of tional and nuclear weapons," the arms control agreements, and called mine which is most realistic or ac- most part, and for years, enjoying colonel said. "When a country that upon Washington to engage in a joint By Firas Abu Hilal signed these international docu- search for solutions to problems re- curate, but the ambiguity that sur- an occupation that is costing it ments declares readiness to use nu- lated to maintaining strategic pari- It is clear that a new international rounds what is known as the “deal nothing to enforce. What is the way clear weapons even in cases prohib- ty. and regional conspiracy is being of the century” or “Trump deal” out? As they face the conspiracy ited by these documents, other coun- (Spuntak) prepared to liquidate the Palestin- allows for all possibilities. If we that is being plotted against them, ian cause, and bring an end to the do not believe that the first and the Palestinians appear as victims Arab-Israeli conflict in favour of second readings are possible, the waiting for their killers to show the occupying power, without third option is probably more like- up, and only thinking about the achieving even a minimum of ob- ly, but it is not an easy option. It options they will be given for how jectives for the Palestinian people. will clash with the positions of Ha- they will die. The Palestinians in This conspiracy is no longer a spec- mas and other factions. It also con- Gaza, and the de facto Hamas gov- ulative interpretation of history, or tradicts official policy in Amman, ernment there, are waiting for the a way of escaping our internal prob- which rejects any Jordanian solu- siege to be lifted. Hamas has done lems by blaming others. It has be- tion or even a confederation be- everything it can do on the politi- come the topic talked about in fore Palestinians have a final peace cal level, while at the same time major Western and Hebrew media agreement. trying to open up to all parties, under coded names such as the The deal of the century: Greater including those who are hostile to “deal of the century” which actu- Israel The Palestinian impasse is one another. What Hamas and the ally express one, and only one, core the absence of a viable national lib- Gaza Strip are doing is waiting for essence: to end the Palestinian eration plan that has a real impact what others will decide about the cause with one result, which we on the occupation. Despite the un- siege, the war, the deal or all other can call “the three-state solution”, certainty about the nature of the options, not least because all of deal that is being prepared to set- the concessions that the movement By Dr Amira Abo el-Fetouh nominate himself for another term and not the internationally recog- in the upcoming elections? To make nised two-state. What does the tle the Palestinian issue, and al- has made to Egypt, Abbas and even matters worse, Al-Sisi said that he conspiracy look like? With so though the implementation of any Dahlan have done nothing to re- The General seemed shaken, tense has been studying the meaning of a much talking, writing and leaks of the three possibilities (or any store life to the coastal enclave. The By Dahr Jamail while the climate is warming far and trembling during his latest state for 50 years and is still study- about the nature of the conspira- others) will not be easy, this im- same is true in the West Bank. Pal- more rapidly at the higher latitudes, speech at the opening of one of his ing. This means that the president cy/deal, it seems difficult to define passe still remains. It has been estinians are following the chang- I've often been asked why I contin- the rest of the country should take nonsensical projects. This was de- of the oldest state in history, whose its final form. However, no matter unsolvable for years and actually es that the Israelis are making on ue to produce these climate dis- heed: "We are the US's canary in spite his attempts to cover this up people created their civilisation over what the details, it looks like lead- helps those who conspire against the ground, from geography to de- patches, given how difficult all of that coal mine." 2017 was the sec- by making threats to the forces of 7,000 years ago, is still studying the ing to this “three-state solution” the Palestinians. I am not referring mography, which are creating a this information is to take in. The ond-hottest year on record for Earth evil; he was not specific, but re- meaning of a state. Then why is he of a Jewish state, a Jordanian state to the political division in Pales- new reality that has made the two- answer is that they are written from and the third straight year that all mained content to call on the peo- a candidate for the most senior po- that includes part of the West Bank, tine. That is the excuse that the state solution, as well as liberation, a place of deep resolve, with the 50 US states had above-average tem- ple to take to the streets and give litical position in Egypt before com- and an Egyptian state that includes enemies are using to justify their impossible. The Palestinian Au- aim of providing the information peratures for the entire year. The five warmest years for the lower 48 him a mandate to fight these evil pleting his studies and receiving his the Gaza Strip. Some observers be- aggression and friends are using to thority and its president are “wait- we all need in order to live in the forces, whoever they are. He said diploma? Since talk of the presiden- justify abandoning their support ing” for the White House’s deci- new reality of a climate-disrupted states have all occurred since 2006. that anyone who wants to eliminate tial elections began, the General has lieve that the conspiracy will be implemented by escalating the for Palestine and its people. Fa- sion, while Trump is angry at the planet. These updates are not in- Egypt must eliminate him first. He made several statements regarding tended to scare people, but to pro- Scientists with the UK's meteoro- has thus more or less reduced Egypt his refusal to allow a corrupt indi- siege on the Gaza Strip (which is tah, Mahmoud Abbas and the Pal- position of the PA towards his ac- logical office state unequivocally estinian Authority have adopted a knowledgement of Jerusalem as vide the latest facts so we can live to himself; Egypt is Al-Sisi, and Al- vidual to be President. These state- happening now) to push the Pal- in the real, and make informed de- that ACD is now dwarfing the influ- Sisi is Egypt. Herein lies the danger ments were strange, since those who estinians in the enclave to rebel negotiations approach to a peace the capital of the occupying pow- cisions about how to use our time ence of natural trends, given that of the level that General Abdel Fat- will allow or not allow a person to against Hamas and hold the move- deal, but have declared repeatedly er. Nothing but waiting, and the each day. Like a traveler using the 2017's warming occurred without an tah Al-Sisi has raised himself, as his be elected in a democracy are the ment responsible for the blockade. that these negotiations are no longer decisions of the Central Council most current map available to nav- El Niño (a natural phenomenon in request violates the Constitution people. They are the only ones with This could lead to chaos, prompt- viable, that Oslo no longer exists, of the PLO were nothing but words igate the wilderness, we can use this the tropical Pacific Ocean that gen- that was drafted against his wishes, the right to prevent someone from ing the Egyptian army to intervene and that America is no longer an and revolving in the same direc- information to shape our larger erates a boost in worldwide temper- and which outlines his authority. being elected through their ballot and Cairo to annex the Gaza Strip, honest broker. On the other hand, tion of “Oslo”, which continues choices and decisions. Clearly, many atures). Climate Disruption Dis- Furthermore, countries are not gov- boxes in honest and free elections, as was the case before the Israeli Hamas, Islamic Jihad and other fac- to prove its own failure. So what people in the US are still engaging patchesACD is unfolding at a faster erned by calling for mandates, but not the sitting President. It is his tions have adopted the approach solution is there other than wait- in the denial of anthropogenic cli- rate than expected, and is also more occupation in 1967. Egypt is not extreme than previously believed. rather in accordance with the Con- duty as the President of Egypt and an honest broker for Palestinian of armed resistance to the occupa- ing? The historical experience of mate disruption (ACD) -- they're stitution, law and authorities. How- as an ordinary citizen, to provide standing on the back end of the Ti- Recent research shows that human- reconciliation Another interpreta- tion, but this has become, in prac- the Palestinian struggle since the caused emissions will only continue ever, calling for a mandate and issu- evidence of an individual’s corrup- tical terms, defensive in nature. The beginning of the 20th century has tanic, the rest of the ship already ing threats to peaceful political forc- tion and to put the person on trial tion of events believes that it will underwater, and refusing to believe to lead to greater impacts on heat start with a devastating war against occupation has been able to im- shown that peaceful popular rev- and extreme weather, and this will es who call for a boycott of the elec- before a fair judiciary in order for pose a real deterrent since its ag- olutions are the most effective it is even sinking. Many of those tions because they do not trust them them to rule on the case based on the Gaza Strip during which Pal- taking the fossil-fuel industry gen- happen even sooner than the Inter- to be honest, open and fair, is abso- the facts. They can then decide if estinian civilians will be allowed gression on Gaza in 2008/2009, so against the occupation. They are erated bait have vested financial in- governmental Panel on Climate lutely shocking. his nomination will be accepted or to escape to the Sinai Peninsula, that Hamas and its weapons in the also the most costly for Israel from terests in the status quo. Others are Change warned just three years ago. Participating in or refraining from not. However, this cannot be done giving the Israeli army the green territory are for self-defence and the political, logistical, economi- consciously (or subconsciously) For example, ACD's impacts on the elections is a political decision and based on accusations directed by a light to destroy Hamas and end its not resistance or liberation, be- cal and security aspects. They ex- choosing to remain stuck in the de- oceans are causing their oxygen lev- the complete and absolute right of President who is himself running for military presence. This will let Is- cause any initiative by Hamas to pose the Zionist state to the world nial stage of the Kübler-Ross Five els to plummet, as evidenced in yet any political body. No one, in any a second term. The emergency law rael annex Gaza and those people use these weapons means a devas- for what it is — a colonial power Stages of Grief model of grieving. another recent study. "If you can't government respecting the basic in Egypt was renewed immediately tating war for the Strip. Palestin- — and bring the conflict back to (The stages are denial, anger, bar- breathe, nothing else matters," De- left behind; those who are in Sinai nise Breitburg, a marine ecologist at rules of democracy, has the right to before the date of the elections was to come under Egyptian sovereign- ian President Mahmoud Abbas basics: it’s about an occupied peo- gaining, depression and acceptance.) resort to issuing threats against such announced, and the protest law is If we allow ourselves to see and ac- the Smithsonian Environmental ty; and what’s left of the West delivers during his meeting with ple fighting against a military oc- Research Center and lead author of a peaceful protest or describe those still in effect, both of which restrict Bank to be annexed to Jordan. The Palestinian senior leaders at the cupation. Peaceful popular revo- knowledge what is happening to our calling for it as evil. What is abso- any large-scale mass movement or planet, it will entail grief work for the study told the AP. "As seas are third possible interpretation of the Presidency building in Ramallah, lutions are also the least costly op- losing oxygen, those areas are no lutely forbidden is to push the army contact between the candidates and West Bank on 18 December 2017 tion for Palestinians. The useless all of us. To see more stories like into any conflict or clash with po- the people. Furthermore, given what deal/conspiracy is to exert pres- this, visit "Planet or Profit?" De- longer habitable by many organ- sure and tighten the blockade as [Issam Rimawi/Anadolu Agency] Palestinian waiting and the miser- cember 2017 was, by far, the hot- isms." While it is inaccurate to be- litical groups. The national army is happened with Ahmed Shafik, fol- The impasse, then, is that the two able equation of the inexpensive a state institution and a pillar of the lowed by Sami Anan, and the threats much as possible against Gaza, test December ever recorded for the lieve one single climate event or state and should act accordingly. It that Al-Sisi issues illegitimately re- forcing Hamas to “allow” the Fa- main approaches declared by Pal- occupation can be ended by pop- state of Alaska. The entire state was aberration can be attributed solely should not interfere in peaceful po- garding who he will allow to be Pres- tah-led Palestinian Authority or estinians to obtain their legitimate ular civil resistance in the West a shocking 15.7°F above the 20th to ACD, it's crucial that we acknowl- litical life at all. However, the Gen- ident, the elections have turned into Mohamed Dahlan to rule the Strip, rights have reached a dead end — Bank and along the border between century average, and sea ice in the edge and interrogate ACD's starring eral insists on involving the army somewhat of a referendum rather which will be followed by a solu- at least for the time being — as the the Gaza Strip and the adjacent ter- Arctic Ocean hit an all-time end of role in the massive climate aberra- in all of his actions, according to his than free elections with guaranteed tion to the economic situation and occupation imposes new facts on ritories. A resistance that will force year record low. "That's really quite tions playing out across the planet. speeches. He has admitted to not the ground every day in the West the occupation to become defen- astonishing," National Weather Ser- A recently published survey by the neutrality, justice and integrity. As lifting the siege in coordination with World Economic Forum showed that being “a politician” and this state- such, the political forces have the Egypt. This will lead to an eco- Bank and turns the lives of the sive rather than offensive will also vice climate science and services manager for the Alaska region Rick for the second year running, dan- ment is an unfortunate irony, as he right to decide whether or not they nomic peace sponsored by Egypt, people of Gaza into hell through contribute to ending the status quo gers stemming from extreme weath- is in Egypt’s top political position. want to participate in the elections the blockade. And in the absence which only benefits Israel and takes Thoman explained to the Anchor- with a similar economic solution age Daily News, "Usually you're er events are even more threaten- How has he governed the country’s or boycott them. They even have for the West Bank as part of Jor- of any horizon for an effective a lot from Palestinians every day, ing to human existence than weap- domestic and foreign political af- the right to demand that they are breaking those by a tenth of a de- dan. These three interpretations are Palestinian action against the oc- including their dreams for the fu- gree or two-tenths of a degree." ons of mass destruction. fairs as the President for the past stopped and that the entire election cupation, Tel Aviv has been for the ture. (middleeastmonitor) (Truthout) four years? And how can he now re- process be repeated. uncertain, and no one can deter- Thoman went on to point out that, WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

North Korea may be only months away from being able to strike the United States with a nuclear-tipped ballistic missile and its atomic weapons programme must be shut down, a senior US disarmament official has said. US dis- armament ambassador Robert Wood, addressing the UN- sponsored Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, also warned that arsenals in China and Russia were expand- ing. "Russia, China and North Korea are growing their stockpiles, increasing the prominence of nuclear weap- ons in their security strategies, and - in some cases - pursuing the development of new nuclear capabilities to threaten other peaceful nations," he said. North Korea "may now be only months away from the capability to strike the US with nuclear-armed ballistic missiles". Mean- while, the Kremlin has said it is Russia's sovereign right to decide where it deploys its military resources on its own territory following reports that Russia had deployed nuclear-capable Iskander missiles in Kaliningrad. The RIA news agency quoted a senior lawmaker as saying yester- day that Moscow had deployed the advanced missiles to its Kaliningrad exclave on the Baltic Sea. Speaking on a conference call with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmit- ry Peskov did not say if the missile systems had been deployed to Kaliningrad region. But he said: "The de- ployment of one weapon or another, the deployment of military units and so forth on Russian territory is exclu- sively a sovereign issue for the Russian Federation. "Rus- sia has never threatened anyone and is not threatening anyone. Naturally Russia has this sovereign right. It should hardly be cause for anyone to worry."

Russian senator Igor Morozov has authorities did not exclude the pos- claimed that the surface-to-air mis- sibility that it was specially orga- sile system (SAM) that shot down nized in order to conceal the theft A wide-scale military operation soon to target IS sleeper cells and the middle, began appearing in Iraqi a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft in of hundreds of weapons, which will be launched soon to track down White Flag militants in Kirkuk and in late-2017, especially after the Syria may have reached the rebels then, without the knowledge of the Islamic State remnants and the re- Tuz Khurmatu.” “The troops re- worsening situation between Bagh- through contraband channels from Ukrainian authorities, were able to cently-emerged White Flags group ceived accurate intelligence reports dad and Erbil and the elimination of the military arsenal in the Ukraini- fall into the hands of Syrian ter- in Kirkuk and Tuz Khurmatu, a on the locations of those terror- IS in most of Iraq’s territory. Ac- an city of Kalynivka, located in rorists through various contraband Popular Mobilization Forces ists, who have committed several cording to Al- Arabiya, members of the Vinnytsia Oblast, RIA Novos- supplies," said Morozov. At the (PMF) spokesman was quoted as violations in Iraq during the past the White Flags are estimated at ti reported. Morozov suggested same time, the Russian senator did Russian,Kazakh FMs saying. Speaking to the semi-offi- period,” Hussieni said, stressing hundreds, and the group’s main that the Ukrainian SAM came to not rule out that the SAM, which cial al-Sabah newspaper on Tues- that the military operation will bases are in mountains and high- Syria after a large-scale fire at the is in service with the Syrian rebels, discuss preparations for day, Ali al-Hussieni, the PMF hopefully eliminate all IS and lands. Iraqi officials have always ammunition depots in Kalynivka. could have been stolen from NATO spokesman for the northern axis, White Flags militants in the two been condemning the group’s ter- In the fall, the military warehouse warehouses in Eastern Europe. On said, “A joint force made up of the towns. The White Fags group, rorist activities and blamed the Pesh- in Kalynivka, Ukraine suffered a February 3, rebels shot down a Caspian Summit Iraqi army, police and the PMF whose members always carry a merga for not taking proper action fire of such catastrophic conse- Russian Su-25 in Syria. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has held a telephone conversa- will launch a military operation white banner with a lion’s head in against it. (BBC) quences that the official Ukrainian (BBC) tion with his Kazakh counterpart Kairat Abdrakhmanov on Tuesday, discussing preparations for the Fifth Caspian Summit, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement, APA reported citing TASS. "The two foreign ministers discussed various aspects of preparations for the Fifth Caspian Summit due in Kazakhstan, bearing in mind the decisions Yemen govt made by the top diplomats of the five Caspian states at the Moscow At least 16 killedinnewwaveof meeting on December 4-5, 2017," the statement reads. For many years, forces agreements between the Russian Empire (later replaced by the Soviet Union) and Iran defined the legal status of the Caspian Sea. Following retake key the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turk- strikesonDamascussuburb:Monitor menistan emerged as subjects of international law. southwestern At least 16 civilians, including four children, have been killed in Syrian Government air- India, Turkmenistan town from strikes targeting rebel-held areas near the cap- ital Damascus, a monitoring group said on rebels Tuesday. The planes hit Haza, Harasata, Dou- mull TAPI gas pipeline ma and Hammouriyeh, all in the Eastern Ghouta Turkmen Foreign Ministry hosted a meeting with Ambassador Extraor- Yemeni government forces have region, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory dinary and Plenipotentiary of India Azar Abul Hasan Khan, said the retaken a key southwestern cross- for Human Rights said. Activists in the region Turkmen ministry in a message Feb. 6. The Indian diplomat presented roads town from Shiite rebels as said dozens were also injured. Tuesday’s toll his credentials. The parties spoke about the high level of political and they press an offensive up the Red brings the total number of civilians killed since diplomatic cooperation between the two countries. In this context, the Sea coast, AFP reported Tuesday, December in airstrikes on Eastern Ghouta to role of high-level visits and work of the intergovernmental commission citing military sources. The retak- more than 300, according to the Observatory’s were also noted during the meeting, says the message. The two sides ing of the town of Hays after count. Rebel retaliatory shelling on the city of also spoke about the role of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan- heavy fighting that was accompa- Damascus and its outskirts has also killed some India (TAPI) gas pipeline. Construction of the Turkmen section of the nied by intense Saudi-led airstrikes 74 people since November, it added. Eastern TAPI gas pipeline began in December 2015. The design capacity of follows on from the recapture in Ghouta, hit by heavy shelling and regime air- TAPI is up to 33 billion cubic meters of gas per year. The total length of early December of Khokha on the strikes for the past two months, has been un- the TAPI pipeline will be 1,814 kilometers - a 214-kilometer section of coast to the west. At least 30 rebel der siege by Syrian President Bashar al-As- the pipeline will run through Turkmenistan. (Trend) fighters were killed in the battle sad’s forces for more than four years. A total for the town and scores wounded, of 400,000 people in the region have been large- according to medical sources in the ly cut off from humanitarian aid since 2013. Uzbekistan advances rebel-held port of Hudaida some Several attempts to establish a permanent 150km to the north. The retaking ceasefire in Eastern Ghouta have since failed. in global rule of is a boost for government forces In recent months, the Russia-supported Syri- who have been hit by deadly in- an forces have regained ground from Western- fighting in their own ranks. backed opposition fighters and militants. law ranking (CNN) Uzbekistan ranked 91st in the World Justice Project’s 2017-2018 Rule of Law Index, having improved its position by two points for the year, the Uzbek Ministry of Justice told Trend. The WJP Rule of Law Index 2017-2018 measures rule of law adherence in 113 countries and jurisdic- SteveBannon'will not testify'over Russiacollusion tions worldwide based on more than 110,000 household and 3,000 expert surveys. The WJP Rule of Law Index measures countries’ rule of ormer White House senior strategist Steve Bannon will not testify before the Intelligence Committee of the law performance across eight factors: constraints on government pow- US House of Representatives on Tuesday, two sources said on Monday, despite a subpoena requiring him to ers, absence of corruption, open government, fundamental rights, order appear. It comes as doubts were also raised about whether Donald Trump would face questions from the and security, regulatory enforcement, civil justice, and criminal justice. special investigation into Russian collusion after his lawyers reportedly urged him to refuse an invitation. The Denmark kept the first place in the ranking. Norway and Finland took the second and third places, respectively. The top 10 countries also house panel wants Mr Bannon to testify as part of its investigation of allegations that Russia sought to included Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, New Zealand, Austria, influence the 2016 presidential election in the United States, following up on his January 16 appearance that Canada and Australia. Venezuela took the 113th place in the ranking. failed to satisfy some members of the committee. Representative Mike Conaway, a senior Republican (Trend) committee member, told reporters on Monday he expected Mr Bannon to comply with a subpoena and answer questions on Tuesday. But two sources familiar with the situation said he would not appear, which could leave Mr Bannon facing a charge of contempt of Congress. Mr Bannon could not immediately be reached for comment. One of the sources said the White House had not authorized Mr Bannon to answer Uzbekistan introduces committee questions. During his January 16 appearance, Mr Bannon refused to answer questions about his time in Mr Trump's administration or the post-election presidential transition, committee members said. The visa-free regime for Intelligence Committee and the White House have not resolved the question of whether executive privilege would apply in Mr Bannon’s case. The House Intelligence Committee is one of three congressional commit- tees, along with the Department of Justice Special Counsel Robert Mueller, investigating the allegations of citizens of 7 countries Russian influence. The source said Mr Bannon would answer all of Mueller’s questions when he appears before him, which is expected next week. It was reported last night that several of Mr Trump's lawyers have On February 3, 2018, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed the advised him not to sit down for an interview Mr Mueller. Decree on additional measures of creating favorable conditions for development of tourism potential of the Republic of Uzbeki- stan. The Decree provides for the introduction of a visa-free regime for 30 days from the date of entry into the territory of the Republic of Uzbekistan for citizens of the State of Israel, the Kurdish fighters target several Turkish Republic of Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, the Republic of Singapore, the Republic of Turkey and Japan, show- ing considerable interest in visiting Uzbekistan, as well as for army tanks in Northern Syria crew members of foreign airlines that carry out regular flights to the Republic of Uzbekistan. In addition, a List of countries is approved for citizens of 39 countries, including the European Kurdish militias in Northern Syria destroyed three tanks of the Turkish Army during clashes in Union, East Asia and the Middle East, as well as the Republic of Afrin region in Northwestern Aleppo on Tuesday. Kurdish sources reported that one of the Turkish army tanks was targeted by a guided missile in the village of Jamli Bil West of the town of India, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America, con- Jandaris South of the town of Afrin. Also, the Kurdish-language Hawar news reported that a cerning citizens for whom a simplified procedure of registration Turkish tank was destroyed in the Kurdish forces' attack in the village of Haj Balal in Shiheh region. of tourist visas to be introduced from February 10, 2018. It added that another Turkish army tank was targeted in clashes in the village of Bikeh in It envisages abolition of the requirement for the provision of Bolboleh region, leaving five Turkish army men dead. In the meantime, nine forces of the Turkey- tourist voucher or treatment of inviting legal or natural persons led Operation Olive Branch were killed and their military vehicles were destroyed in the Kurdish in the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs fighters' attack in the village of Khalil in Mobata region and in the village of Shadya in Rajoiu region. of the Republic of Uzbekistan and registration of a visa within The Turkish Army General Staff announced in a statement on Monday that nearly 950 Kurd- two working days, excluding the day of documents acceptance. ish gunmen were killed in Turkey's Operation Olive Branch in Afrin region in Northwestern (Akpress) Aleppo. (BBC) WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Armenia’s economic policy needs revision– economist

China’s central bank pledged on ing and real estate financing, the PBOC will comprehensively use would improve the macro-pruden- Tuesday to maintain a prudent and People’s Bank of China (PBOC) multiple monetary policy tools and tial policy framework and explore neutral monetary policy this year said on its website after conclud- realize reasonable growth in credit ways to include shadow banking, and keep liquidity reasonably sta- ing an internal work conference. and social financing, the statement real estate financing and internet fi- ble. A woman walks past the head- The central bank also said it would added. The regulator also added it nancing. Beijing is in its second year quarters of the People's Bank of improve internet financial regula- will deepen market-based interest of a deleveraging campaign to reduce China (PBOC), the central bank, tion, stating that one of its main rate reforms, fend off systemic fi- financial risks rooted in a rapid in Beijing, June 21, 2013. REU- tasks for 2018 was to “establish nancial risks and keep the yuan ba- build-up in debt and riskier types TERS/Jason Lee/File Photo China and improve a long-term mecha- sically stable this year. Vice cen- of financing. But authorities are pro- The Armenian authorities need also will step up macro-pruden- nism for internet financial regula- tral bank governor Yi Gang said last ceeding cautiously to avoid any to revise their economic poli- tial management for shadow bank- tion and risk prevention.” The month that China’s central bank sharp blow to economic growth. cy, Atom Margaryan, an econ- (Reuters) omist and professor at the Ar- menian State University of Economics, said Monday at a news conference. Although Margaryan doesn't call into question the economic growth claimed by the country's au- thorities, he still finds quite rea- sonable public bewilderment over contradiction between so high economic growth and so A meeting held between President panying the president that Sisi and high poverty rate in the coun- Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Oman’s Said agreed to establish a joint com- try. According to official re- Deputy Prime Minister for Cabi- mittee for cooperation between the ports, poverty rate was record- net Affairs Fahd bin Mahmoud Al two countries as soon as possible ed at 29.4% in 2016, which is Said discussed establishing a joint to discuss the activation of the 0.4% less than in 2015. «This investment fund to develop eco- agreements signed between the two Egypt Prime Minister Sherif Is- means that something is wrong nomic cooperation between the countries. On his part, Egypt’s am- mail said on Monday that he met two countries. Sisi stressed that bassador to Oman Mohamed Gho- the Governor of the Central Bank also in social policy in Arme- the national projects implemented neim expressed his optimism about of Egypt Tariq Amer on Monday nia,» Margaryan said adding by Egypt offer promising and di- a meeting held between Sisi and and discussed the details of the that the county's economy is versified investment opportunities several Omani businessmen on the second phase of the country’s vulnerable. «Mining industry in various fields and provide a large sidelines of his visit to the Sultan- IMF-sponsored economic reform still depends on fluctuations in market for business. During the ate, pointing out that a large num- program. During a press confer- world prices and agriculture is meeting, held in the Omani capital ber of Omani businessmen stressed ence, Ismail added that the total in desperate state.» Muscat on Monday, Said praised that they were keen to meet with foreign currency reserves reached Ordinary citizens, he said, feel the steps taken by Egypt in the the president. The ambassador US$38.2 billion in January for the no benefit from the economic last period, stressing his country’s added that there is direct coordi- first time, which reflects confidence growth – only wealthy people keenness to further cooperation in nation between concerned author- in Egypt’s economic performance take advantage of it. various fields. In a related context, ities in both countries regarding the and the banking system. Egypt be- Speaking about vulnerability of Omani Minister of State for For- study of future joint projects. gan implementing an International the economy, the economist eign Affairs Yousef bin Alawi said Oman’s Sultan Qaboos received Monetary Fund (IMF) reform pointed out Armenia's debt that a held meeting between Sisi Egyptian President Abdel Fattah program in November 2016. The burden and increase of military and Sultan Qaboos bin Said was al-Sisi in the Al Alam Palace in the international lender made a deal to spending. cordial, pointing out that Oman ap- Omani capital Muscat on Sunday provide Egypt with a US$12 bil- According to the National Sta- preciates the Egyptian president’s for a three-day state visit to the lion loan in exchange for wide-rang- tistical Service, Armenia’s total keenness to visit Oman despite Sultanate.Egyptian Ambassador ing structural economic reforms. having internal concerns. He Ghonaim said that the situation in The reforms include a raft of mea- public debt has grown 14% or stressed that Oman-Egypt rela- Yemen will be the priority subjects sures such as devaluing the pound by $832.5 million since late 2016 tions are clear with no obstacles or of discussions between Sisi and currency, loosening capital con- reaching $6 774.6 million by late concerns. Bin Alawi said in a state- Qaboos. trols, ending energy subsidies, re- 2017. Margaryan also said that ment to a press delegation accom- (AFP) forming public enterprises and corruption and poverty make overhauling monetary policy – all the country's economy more in a bid to restore economic stabil- vulnerable. ity and long-term growth. The first IMF has since recommended that taxes than the poor. The IMF pro- 2018 to be “good” at around 5%, He said the accumulated bur- step the IMF commended was the the government continue remov- jected that this could help grow higher than previously expected. den will force the new govern- Ku r d ish official floatation of the pound, a measure ing subsidies on fuel. Another ad- the GDP significantly. Director of He added that the reform program ment to be formed in April to taken in November 2016. The fol- vice was for Egypt to reduce tax the Middle East and Central Asia adopted by Egypt achieved posi- embark on new reforms, and lowing year, Egypt slashed parts exemptions and provide a more Department at the IMF Jihad tive results in its first year. this will be a quite painful pro- st r esses fu r t h er of its energy subsidies, resulting progressive tax system, meaning Azour recently projected that The economic reforms have had a cess. econ om ic t ies in a 60 percent surge in fuel prices. that wealthier people pay more Egypt’s economic growth rate in negative impact. (AFP) w it h Ir an w est er n p r ovin ces

Ukraine has repaid $375 million to its most important lender, the Inter- given to the country. In March national Monetary Fund, to service the principal debt under the 2014 2015, the Fund approved a four- Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). On 6 February, Ukraine is scheduled to year EFF program worth $17.5 pay another $87 million of interest payment under the SBA and the billion. Ukraine has so far received ongoing Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program. The National Bank of four tranches cumulatively worth Ukraine has informed about this, UNIAN reports. Earlier, the National $8.7 billion. The program is expect- Bank of Ukraine was expected to repay $7.4 billion on foreign debts in ed to come to an end in March 2018. Nonetheless, Ukraine’s international reserves are not expected to 2019. Ukraine’s international re- shrink because foreign currency will be replenished due to new disburse- serves as of 1 January 2018 ments from the International Monetary Fund and other international amounted to $18.81 billion, 21% partners, the placement of Eurobonds and purchases of foreign currency up from the figure on 1 January on the interbank market. Since April 2014, Ukraine and the International 2017. The National Bank expects Monetary Fund had been implementing a two-year SBA worth $17 the country’s international re- billion, under which two disbursements worth $4.6 billion had been serves to reach $20.5 billion by the end of 2018. Malta, Bulgaria ‘strong hubs in different but complementary regions’: President Erbil provincial governor has Kurdish delegation comprising of called for more economic relations businessmen, customs officials and President Coleiro Preca said that the Maltese Islands are a bridge that much potential, for mutual eco- with Iran’s western provinces in also officials from Erbil governor connects cultures and continents, between the northern and southern nomic cooperation, between Mal- separate letters to his counterparts office will pay a visit to West Az- shores of the Mediterranean Sea, while Bulgaria is, similarly, a strategic ta and Bulgaria” She explained that in West Azerbaijan, Kurdistan and erbaijan province later this month hub, which provides perfect access to the Western Balkans and beyond. mutual cooperation between Mal- Kermanshah. Nowzad Hadi, in his to discuss the ways to develop Delivering the closing address during the Bulgarian-Maltese Business ta and Bulgaria can be achieved letters, congratulated the appoint- relations between Erbil and the Ira- Forum, organised in Sofia as part of her State Visit in Bulgaria, the through trade in services, and the ments of the three provincial gov- nian province. This move by the President expressed her confidence in the fact that Malta and Bulgaria’s provision of expertise, skills, and ernors, hoping for more economic Kurdish officials is part of a wider geo-strategic positions can be positively explored, for many socio-eco- training in those areas where both relations between Iraqi Kurdistan KRG plan to resume its relations nomic opportunities, to collaborate and to develop fruitful partnerships our countries require mutual sup- Region (KRG) and Iranian side. with the neighboring countries between Malta and Bulgaria, and their respective business communi- port. On tourism between Malta Also in relation to the letters, Ab- which were deteriorated following ties. “The presence of Malta’s Minister for the Economy, Investment and Bulgaria, President Coleiro dullah Akrei, another KRG offi- the controversial secession refer- and Small Business, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion, Preca said this has been increasing cial who is responsible for the endum back in September. Also in and the Minister for the Family, Children’s Rights and Social Solidarity, exponentially, adding that tourism KRG relations with Iran highlight- this regard, the KRG government as part of this delegation, is evidence of the political will of my govern- is an opportunity for economic ed the importance of those letters has recently tried to get the ap- ment, to explore further opportunities for sustainable collaboration and growth, but it also, most impor- saying “Erbil provincial governor proval of Iraqi central government potential partnerships, between our two countries, in many sectors. By tantly, provides person-to-person office wants to open a new chap- to increase its border crossings working in synergy, not only will the business and social sectors of connections, which will result in a ter in its relations with the Islamic with Iran. Malta and Bulgaria flourish, but our markets will also extend and ex- deepening of the cultural and so- Republic of Iran.” He added that a (ANA) pand, in the best interests of our peoples,” the President said. “There is cial links between our peoples. WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

balance between commercial films Moreover, I think it’s too early to projects, Mahanati seems very Thrilled yet nervous to have played the and performance-oriented analyze my career. In the last cou- exciting. Were you apprehensive iconic personality like actress Savitri so projects. You’re path to stardom ple of years, you worked on mul- about playing an iconic character in such a short span of time is as- tiple projects in quick succession. like Savitri so early on in your ca- early on in her career, Keerthy Suresh, in tonishing. Have you tried to un- Did being so busy take a toll on reer? I had too many thoughts an interview with HT, describes the earth the reasons behind your suc- personal life? I like being busy, but when I was offered the project. I cess? No, I never thought about sometimes I’m so occupied with know of Savitri, but till I signed opportunity as a blessing for her career. the reasons. I’m just going with work; I don’t even get enough time the project I didn’t realise its val- the flow and accepting things as to rest. In September and October ue. I asked myself if it was too Keerthy Suresh is undoubtedly vous to have played the iconic they come my way. However, I of 2016, I was shooting for five early to do a film like Savitri. I also one among the most sought after personality so early on in her ca- do believe luck played a major role. projects. I was juggling between felt the project - considering it’s southern actresses. Recently seen reer, Keerthy describes the oppor- I’m just glad things fell in place the sets of Mahanati, Bairavaa, about the life of Savitri, who has in Pawan Kalyan’s Agnyaathavaa- tunity as a blessing for her career. the way they’re supposed to and Nenu Local and Agnyaathavaasi. had her share of ups and downs, si, her next major release of the In this exclusive chat with Hin- everything worked out. Honestly, It was super hectic, but when I get and was known to drink - might year is Mahanati, the bilingual biop- dustan Times, she opens up on her I don’t try and analyze the rea- to see the final product, I feel it’s draw attention which will eventu- ic on legendary southern actress flourishing career, playing Savitri sons behind my success because worth it. It makes me really hap- ally lead to controversies. Savitri. Thrilled and equally ner- and why it’s important to strike a then I’d be under a lot of pressure. py. Out of your upcoming (Hindustan Times)

She is a star who has grown from the quintessential Bollywood ro- strength-to-strength as an actor mance with which her filmography and Kareena Kapoor says she has is full of and that is why she took always been comfortable in her up the project. “It’s a different own zone. The actor will soon be kind of movie. It’s a story of four seen in “Veere Di Wedding”, which friends. It’s not the typical boy- marks her first film after the birth meets-girl romance which I think of son, Taimur. Kareena, who is I’ve done so much of. So I thought regarded more as a contemporary this should be different. It’s a small than a senior by Alia Bhatt and film, made by women. The pro- Sonam Kapoor, credits her confi- ducers are women - Rhea (Kapoor) dence in her 18-year-long career to and Ekta (Kapoor). I think it’s a have helped her gain the respect of special film and people will ap- these actors. “I think I have always preciate it.” Women across the carved a place for myself. Times world are raising their voices seek- change, generations change, peo- ing equal opportunities. Asked if ple come and go. But I think it’s time is here when the representa- maybe because of my confidence. tion of women in working spaces The final shot of the Avengers: Infini- It’s in the way one carries them- would increase, Kareena said fe- selves. That’s very important. I male artistes have been doing phe- ty War Super Bowl trailer has con- take it as a compliment but I think nomenal work for ages and now vinced a few Marvel fans on Twitter I have always been pretty much in they are unstoppable. “I think I my own space. Right from Refu- have always worked with some The Super Bowl trailer for Mar- ture a cameo by Wolverine. Dis- Pictures to bring Spider-Man, a that Wolverine will be making a cam- gee till Veere Di Wedding,” said amazing females directors. I have vel’s upcoming extravaganza, ney, which owns Marvel Studios, character they did not own, to the Kareena. Kareena also returned to worked with Reema Kagti, she’s a Avengers: Infinity War, squeezed recently took over 20th Century Marvel Cinematic Universe. eo in the superhero movie. the ramp at the recently conclud- woman and she made a beautiful in a lot of superheroes into 30 sec- Fox, the studio that owns the rights The eagle-eyed fans have pointed ed Lakme Fashion Week Summer/ film, Talaash. There’s Zoya onds, but the final shot of the spot to the X-Men franchise. out that the scars on Thanos’ face Resort 2018 when she appeared Akhtar, there’s Rhea as a produc- - an ominous look at the villain, This got fans of Marvel excited at aren’t the same as the ones we saw Hugh Jackman, who played Wol- Screenplay - would be his final film verine for close to two decades on as the character. The Marvel-Fox as the showstopper for grand fi- er. There are many doors open Thanos - has people on Twitter the possibility of a crossover be- a few movies ago, but Thanos’ nale designer Anamika Khanna’s now especially in Indian film fra- speculating. tween the two franchises. Marvel appearance has changed drastical- film, announced that 2017’s Lo- deal, valued at over $50 billion, is gan - which has scored an Oscar currently under review for a year. collection Nudes Reinvented. The ternity,” she said. Based on the scratches on Thanos’ is no stranger to this strategy - in ly since Josh Brolin took over the star said Veere Di Wedding was not (Hindustan Times) face, they think the film will fea- 2016, they collaborated with Sony part. nomination for Best Adapted (Tribune)

The first look of upcoming film a scene from the film where seized wealth and papers are on display. Raid, starring Ajay Devgn, was In the background an archway and minarets can been seen. Ajay unveiled on Tuesday. Sharing the wears a no-nonsense look , in keeping with the tagline: Heroes don’t picture, Ajay tweeted: “Meet always come in uniform. The film is directed by Raj Kumar Gupta and Amay Patnaik - Deputy Commis- also stars Ileana D’Cruz and Saurabh Shukla. It will release on March sioner of Income Tax, Lucknow. 16, 2018. Sharing the picture, trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted : #RaidTrailer out at 11.30 AM. “Ileana D’Cruz and Saurabh Shukla... First look poster of #Raid... Pro- Stay tuned!” Meet Amay Patnaik- duced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Deputy Commisioner of Income Abhishek Pathak... Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta... 16 March 2018 Tax, Lucknow. #RaidTrailer out at release.” Ajay Devgn, Ileana D’Cruz and Saurabh Shukla... First look The 62-year-old actor, who is 11.30 AM. Stay tuned! In the poster of #Raid... Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Ku- poster, Ajay is sitting on a trunk mar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak... Directed by Raj Kumar currently in Los Angeles, said he with cash stuffed gunny bags Gupta... 16 March 2018 release. Ajay Devgn seems to have taken to around him. There are also boxes, going after money, looted or otherwise. If in Baadshaho, he led a gang to got to know about the breach lots of files and what looked liked get back an erstwhile queen’s wealth (gold) seized by the government heaps of gold bars. The trunk and after emergency in 1975, in Raid , he seems to be going after those from his friends in India and has gunny bags have seals , a mark of hoarding wealth. The trailer is expected to be out by 11.30 am today. alerted the microblogging site government, on them. It looks like (Santa Banta) about the incident. Deepika, Ranveer’s Padmaavat is now Rs 200 cr film

Continuing with its successful run at the box office, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat has now entered the Rs 200 crore club. According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the magnum-opus has taken the Box Office by storm and has raked in Rs 212 crore. “#Padmaavat continues its GLORIOUS RUN as it hits a DOUBLE CENTURY... Crosses ? 45 cr mark in Weekend 2 [despite no-screening in few states], which is NOTEWORTHY... [Week 2] Fri 10 cr, Sat 16 cr, Sun 20 cr. Total: 212.50 cr. India biz”, he tweeted. #Padmaavat continues its GLORIOUS RUN as it hits a DOUBLE CENTURY... Crosses ? 45 cr mark in Weekend 2 [despite no- screening in few states], which is NOTEWORTHY... [Week 2] Fri 10 cr, Sat 16 cr, Sun 20 cr. Total: ? 212.50 cr. India biz. “#Padmaavat biz at a glance...Week 1: 166.50 cr, Weekend 2: 46 cr, Total: 212.50 cr, India biz. SUPER-HIT.” The movie stars Deepika Padukone in the lead role of Rani Padmini. Shahid Kapoor essays the role of Maharawal Ratan Singh and Ranveer Singh portrays Alauddin Khilji, the 13th Century ruler of the Khilji Dynasty. Padmaavat movie review: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film does what Karni?Sena wanted to do Padmaavat: How Jim Sarbh humanises Ranveer Singh’s tyrant, Khilji Singh has been praised for his portrayal of Khilji in the film. In a recent interview, he said, “Khilji was one of my toughest roles. Further- more, the process of creating Khilji has been extremely rewarding. So, this success is incredibly Actor Anupam Kher today said his Swapan Dasgupta in a direct mes- special. I’m thankful to Sanjay Leela Bhansali for giving me a film and a character that will Twitter account has been hacked. sage, a first ever from him yester- always be remembered and cherished.” (Hindustan Times) The 62-year-old actor, who is cur- day, which he clicked upon. Das- rently in Los Angeles, said he got gupta’s Twitter account is said to to know about the breach from his have been compromised by Turk- friends in India and has alerted the ish Pro-Pak hackers. “Got a DM Here's all the detail you want to know microblogging site about the inci- yesterday from Mr Swapan Das- dent. “My Twitter account has gupta’s account about a link. A first about the girl Salman has found! been hacked. Just got few calls from from him. So opened it. Have spo- A few moments ago Salman Khan made a cryptic tweet in which he said, "Mujhe friends in India about it. I am in ken to Twitter already,” Kher add- ladki mil gayi" and everyone went crazy and started making assumptions about LA and it is 1 am,” Kher told PTI ed. A message reading Caution: the tweet that whether Bhai has found a girl for marriage or what? Now Salman over a text message. Before Pad- This account is temporarily re- has tweeted another tweet in which he clarified that he has found the girl for Man, Akshay Kumar’s box office stricted is currently being dis- Aayush Sharma's debut film Loveratri. Salman took to Twitter and wrote, success rate explained in graphs played when one visits the actor’s "Nothing to worry na @aaysharma ki film #Loveratri ke liye ladki mil gayi The Big Sick actor said he re- account. Warina, Toh dont worry na be happy na". Now it is clear that Bhai is still single ceived a link from Rajya Sabha MP (Hindustan Times) and we have to wait for some more time to witness Bhai's marriage! WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 07, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

The Premier League has revealed and EFL for several months regard- Italy all currently operate with the it is looking at ways of introduc- ing the challenges of the increas- winter break system, with the ing a winter break into the English ingly congested English football Bundesliga taking the longest pe- game. Talks have been ongoing be- calendar, and ways in which we riod of time away from the field at tween the Football Association and can work together to ease fixture 22 days. Sky Sports News under- the English Football League regard- congestion while also giving play- stands the discussions are explor- ing the proposal. A winter break is ers a mid-season break. "Provided ing whether two weekends after commonplace throughout Europe- space can be found in the calendar, the FA Cup third round in January an football and the Premier League we are open to this in principle can be made available for a winter has today released a statement clar- and will continue constructive dis- break. The break wouldn't apply ifying the position. The statement cussions with our football stake- to the Football League as that com- reads: "The Premier League has holders to seek a workable solu- petition needs each weekend avail- been in discussions with the FA tion." Spain, France, Germany and able to fill its 46 matches. Shubhankar England'sTymal Mills Sharma wins overlooked for T20 Maybank tri-series for his Championship own good,says in Malaysia Eoin Morgan

England captain Eoin Morgan in- moment, will determine how he sists England have not forgotten goes over the next few years." With about Tymal Mills and have over- just four England caps under his looked him in Australia for his own belt, Mills would be forgiven for good. A year ago the Sussex seam- fretting over his international pros- er was one of the hottest proper- pects - particularly with the next ties on the T20 circuit, with his World T20 more than two years blend of searing left-arm pace and away. But Morgan was quick to slower balls earning a life-chang- emphasise that his current absence ing £1.4m deal in the Indian Pre- was a considered decision about mier League with Royal Challeng- the player's own development ers Bangalore last year. But the 25- rather than a knee-jerk reaction to year-old, who can only play the a dip in form. "We certainly see shortest form due to a congenital him as a guy who can gain a huge back condition, failed to attract any amount of experience playing in bids in last month's IPL auction tournaments around the world," Shubhankar Sharma won the Maybank Championship in Malaysia and suffered a further setback said Morgan. "Due to his fitness after hitting a final-round of 62 on Sunday to overcome a four-shot when he was dropped by Hobart background, we probably wouldn't deficit. The 21-year-old trailed leaders Jorge Campillo of Spain and Hurricanes for the semi-final and consider him until a World Cup South Africa's Dylan Frittelli at the start of the final round, but hit an final of the Big Bash. He arrived in year - pulling him out of a Big Bash almost flawless round including 10 birdies to claim his second Europe- Tasmania as a marquee overseas just for a tri-series. "We feel like an Tour win of the season. As a result, the 21-year-old, who won the signing but was axed after conced- getting a long string of games to- Joburg Open in December, has moved top of the Race to Dubai stand- ing the most runs in the competi- gether and having a set plan could ings and has two wins from his opening 13 events of the European tion, leaking 389 at almost 10 an be better than travelling more with Tour. He finished with a total of 21-under ahead of Campillo (-19), over. "He's gone through a tough us, maybe playing or not playing. fellow Spaniard Pablo Larrazabal and New Zealander Ryan Fox who couple of months, which every- "We feel him committing to one shared third place. "I played pretty solid and it wasn't easy because it body can go through," said Mor- side, playing and doing his thing was windy," Sharma said after the win. "I kept pushing the whole day. gan, whose England side face Aus- on the road is the best option at I knew I had to make a lot birdies to catch the leaders. I made a lot of tralia at Mills' adopted home the moment. "I haven't spoken to birdies on the front nine and just continued on the back. "The last two ground, the Bellerive Oval, on him but that was communicated months have changed my life. I've been a member on the Asian Tour for Wednesday. "The way he comes to him through (national selector) a while and I will continue to be a member on the Asian Tour. "I've back from the sort of form he's in, Jimmy Whitaker quite a while ago, always dreamt of winning and now I'm a two-time winner on the Asian or the luck that he's running at the maybe in the summer." Tour and European Tour." (BBC Sport) Winter Olympics:

32 Russian athletes Ricky Hatton fears Tyson Fury ber after UK Anti-Doping charged an uphill challenge to get back in may already have done "too much him with testing positive for ele- the ring. "The one thing that wor- damage" to his career by the time vated levels of the banned steroid ries me is in the two or three years he launches his comeback. The 29- nandrolone. The former IBF, WBA he's had out, has he already done file appeal as they year-old has not fought since de- 'super' and WBO title holder is too much damage? If he'd fought feating Wladimir Klitschko by working towards a comeback after Anthony Joshua maybe six, seven unanimous decision in November linking up with a new trainer, Ben months after Klitschko, he'd have 2015 and was stripped of his Ring Davison, and has issued challeng- beaten him," Hatton said. "Can he Magazine heavyweight title on es to 49-year-old Antonio Tarver claw back the damage he's done bid to Thursday based on inactivity af- and 46-year-old Shannon Briggs. with putting on the weight, and ter failing to announce a comeback But Hatton, who left boxing for a whatever's happened in his life, can fight before the start of February. similar period of time before los- he get that back? I don't know. "It's Fury has previously admitted to ing on his return in 2012 having very hard when you've been doing compete in struggling with depression and us- also had to lose a significant amount it for all of them years, and think: ing cocaine, as well as accepting a of weight and battled against de- 'Here we go again'. It's sometimes Pyeonchang backdated two-year ban in Decem- pression, believes Fury may face very hard to get motivated. Rafael Nadal targets return from The Court of Arbitration for Sport quest to invite 13 active athletes the decision by CAS to overturn Committee (IOC) (the respon- (CAS) has revealed 32 Russian and two retired athletes working life bans as extremely disappoint- dent). "The applicants challenge athletes have filed appeals against in support roles were among 28 ing and surprising IOC President the IOC decision refusing to invite thigh injuryat Acapulcothis month a decision by the International athletes whose lifetime bans were Thomas Bach described the deci- them to participate in the 2018 Olympic Committee (IOC) to pre- overturned by CAS last Thursday sion by CAS to overturn life bans Olympic Winter Games. "They vent them from competing at the while the ban on 11 others was as extremely disappointing and request that CAS overturn the Rafael Nadal expects to be back Pyeonchang Winter Olympics. upheld. IOC chief Thomas Bach surprising A statement released on IOC decision and allow them to playing competitive tennis by The 32 athletes all failed to pass described the decision as "extreme- Tuesday read: "The Ad hoc Divi- participate in these Games as the end of the month, the world the mandatory IOC vetting - im- ly disappointing and surprising". sion of the Court of Arbitration Olympic Athletes from Russia." No 1 revealed on Monday. The posed as a result of Russian dop- Six-time Winter Olympics gold for Sport (CAS) has opened an Short-track speed-skating legend 31-year-old was forced to pull ing at the 2014 Sochi Olympics - medal winner Victor Ahn is among arbitration procedure following an Victor An is one of 32 athletes to out of his Australian Open and were subsequently not invit- the athletes to waiting for approv- urgent application filed by 32 Rus- have filed appeals A hearing over quarter-final against Marin Cil- ed. The news follows Monday's al to compete in South Korea. IOC sian athletes (the applicants) the appeal is likely to be held on ic in the fifth set two weeks ago decision by the IOC to reject a re- President Thomas Bach described against the International Olympic Wednesday. (Sky Sport) due to a thigh injury. "It's a small injury that needs time and rest and recovery, and that's what we're doing," Nadal said Winx to miss Apollo Stakes with jockey banned at the inauguration of a specia- lised tennis clinic in Madrid. It means he will likely return Chris Waller has decided that Winx will not run in the Apollo Stakes on February 17 after jockey Hugh Bowman failed in his bid to have a to action at Acapulco, which suspension overturned. Instead, Waller will wait until the Chipping starts on February 26. "For the Norton Stakes on March 3 when Bowman will be available to ride moment my schedule is the Australia's greatest horse. Bowman has been a huge part of the Winx same and I think I'll be able to story and Waller said in a statement he put out on Twitter that he would travel to Mexico to play at rather give the mare another barrier trial than look for a replacement. He Acapulco," he added. said: "Following consultation between the owners of Winx and I, the Nadal has twice won the decision has been made for Winx to resume her racing on March 3 in the Acapulco ATP tournament, in Group One Chipping Norton over 1600m. 2005 and 2013 but that was "Hugh Bowman is a very important part of Winx and we feel that we when it was played on clay. It can go straight into the Chipping Norton first up without the need to has been played on hard courts resume in the Apollo Stakes as we had originally planned. since 2014. (Sky Sport) (Sky Sport) WEDNESDAY . FEBRUARY 07. 2018-Dalwa 18, 1396 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 192 Price: Afs.20

AT News Report battalion in Kabul. Based on introduce them to judicial organs for including two generals committed 29th January five armed militants KABUL: Seven high ranking army president Ghani’s order, an assigned further inquiry, said a statement professional negligence. All seven are attacked a 111 army battalion in officers were fired by President delegation after assessment of the issued by presidential Palace. sacked and referred for further western part of Kabul, which Ashraf Ghani due to professional attack over 111 army battalion made President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani investigations. The process of resulted at killing of at least 11 negligence in connection to the decision to sack seven high ranking in twitter said that the team findings reward and punishment to continue Afghan soldiers and wounding 16 recent attack on 111 army officer including two generals and reveal that seven high ranking officers It is pertained to mention that on others.

he bombing was part of a 96-hour air campaign that struck training facilities and sources of revenue like narcotics. improvised explosive devices, the its forces from Iraq to Afghanistan. statement read, as quoted by Fox The report said that western HERAT CITY: At least 470 News. contractors at a base say US people were delivered at the zonal “The Taliban have nowhere to troops began the drawdown over hospital in western Herat province hide,” Gen. John Nicholson, the the past week, with groups of after attempting suicide this solar commander of US Forces and soldiers leaving the base on daily year, with 20 losing their lives, Resolute Support mission in flights. However, the exact scale officials at the hospital said Afghanistan, said. of the redeployment was unclear. Monday. Mohammad Rafiq “There will be no safe haven According to various Sherzai, the spokesman of Herat for any terrorist group bent on estimates, as of 2016, there were Zonal Hospital, told Pajhwok bringing harm and destruction to more 5,000 US military personnel Afghan News that 70 percent of this country,” he said. stationed in Iraq, with nearly 4,000 the suicide attempts were made by A US Air Force B-52 bomber has The bombing was part of a 96- The B-52, which was recently deployed to support and assist women and 30 percent by young dropped a record number of hour air campaign that struck reconfigured with a "conventional local groups fighting Daesh men. He linked the extreme step precision guided bombs on Taliban training facilities and sources of rotary," dropped 24 guided militants. The remaining personnel to forced and underage marriages, over the past 24 hours in the north revenue like narcotics. The strikes munitions, the report said. included special operations forces, domestic violence, baad marriages, of Afghanistan, the US Forces- also aimed at stolen Afghan This comes as a report logistical workers and troops on illiteracy, poverty, mental Afghanistan said in a statement National Army vehicles "being published on Fox News shows temporary rotations, the BBC illnesses, broken love affairs and Tuesday. converted to vehicle-borne" that the US military is redeploying reported. (ToloNews) drug addiction. Sherzai said the suicide attempts involved self- immolation, using Diazepam drug, Tramadol, poison and weapons. ISIS military in The number of suicide attempts decreased this year from charge for last year’s 700 attempts in Herat. Of them 20 lost lives last year. Haska Mina A number of young women An agreement was signed between Line incursion by Pakistan and said expressed concern over the killed in East of Indian Ambassador to Kabul “(some) countries – in the region – increasing suicide tendency among Manpreet Vohra and Afghan cannot achieve anything by firing women and said domestic violence Afghanistan officials on Tuesday based on missiles and suicide attacks”. and forced marriages were the root which India will provide $100 Abdullah said those countries cause of such problems. A key ISIS leader in charge of the million USD for 108 small which claim they want friendly military commission of the terror development projects in relations with Afghanistan “must Aziza, 23, a resident of Herat, group for Haska Mina district has said: “Women face more mental JALALABAD: A new fresh fruit Afghanistan. Education and health show it in practice”. and vegetable market has been been killed in eastern Nangarhar sectors will be included in the 108 This comes after Pakistan health issues, they are pressured province of Afghanistan. The by families in some cases and not opened in eastern Nangarhar projects, officials said. forces resumed cross-Durand Line province, an official said on provincial police commandment allowed to go to school or said a clash broke out between the There should be no delay in incursions on Kunar province in university, underage or forced Tuesday. The market, costing the implementation of the the east of Afghanistan over the three million dollars, has 300 shops ISIS militants and the Afghan marriages are other factors behind security forces in Chaparhar projects, Chief Executive Abdullah weekend. Local officials say that suicide attempts in women.” equipped with all facilities for Abdullah said at the signing more than 180 missiles have hit preserving fresh fruit and district late on Monday, leaving at Susan, another girl, said, least four ISIS militants dead or ceremony of the agreement. Dangam and Sarkano district in “Most of suicide cases involve vegetables. Around 20,000 people wounded. The Nangarhar police He said India’s help will have Kunar in the last few days. ordinary people. Awareness will get jobs on the market. Izzat officials are saying that the Afghan a positive impact on people’s lives Local officials claimed that the through elders is the only way to Khan, in charge of the market, said police and army forces were busy in the country. “India wants peace rocket shelling resulted in casualties prevent this phenomenon.” it had been constructed on 20 acres conducting routine patrol when and stability in Afghanistan,” in the area. However, no exact Gulsom Seddiqi, a women rights of land. Vegetables and fruit from they were ambushed by the ISIS Abdullah said. information is available in this activist, said that bad cultures, lack eastern provinces will be brought militants. (KP) He pointed to cross-Durand respect. (ToloNews) of legal, psychological and cultural to the market for sale. An Afghan counseling in schools and refugee, Haji Niaz Mohammad universities contributed to suicide who heads the vegetable-sellers’ cases in Afghanistan particularly association in Pakistan, promised in Herat. Islamic scholars in Herat cooperating on quick term suicide as forbidden in Islam. transportation of fruit from the Sayed Mohammad Shirazi, an market. Public representative Ajmal Omar called the market a were brought from different parts as a good step toward reducing Islamic scholar in Herat, said such of the province. Allah Nazar, a unemployment and boosting trade cases should be seriously followed standard project in the eastern zone. Earlier, Nangarhar had a small shopkeeper, said he alone needed in vegetables and fruits. by the government and the women 20 workers. He hailed the market (Pajhwok) affairs ministry. “A deep research market where vegetables and fruits is needed about suicide cases, committing suicide is forbidden in Islam and those who kill self violate the rules of God.” he said. According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics in 2015, 800,000 people commit suicide worldwide. But there are no exact figures for suicide cases in Afghanistan. (Pajhwok)

KABUL: An Afghan refugee living in Australia has won nearly $2 million in compensation after he suffered a back injury, a news report says. Rahmatullah Baig injured his back working at a meat factory in TALOQAN: The latest kangaroo by her maternal uncle and his sons, July 2010 -- just a month after court victim, Surayya, says she but she had no complaint against starting work. The injury left him TALOQAN: An illegal militia was lashed by her maternal uncle them. When asked why she was unable to do manual work. commander, Abdul Awal, has and his sons after the kangaroo refusing to register complaint With his slipped disk blamed allegedly evicted some 200 Gujar court ordered so, but she has no against her relatives who produced on employer's negligence, Baig tribe families from their homes in complaint against the perpetrators. her before the kangaroo court, she sued Teys Australia Central Farkhar district of northeastern Police have detained seven replied that the incident happened Queensland and labour hire firm Takhar province. Gul Mohammad, suspects in connection with the three months back and now her AWX in the Rockhampton a resident of Kharmab locality of incident that took place three wounds had healed. Supreme Court. the district, told Pajhwok Afghan months back in Chah Ab district She said she was accused of The man from the minority News the commander first warmed of northeastern Takhar province having illicit relationship with a Hazara community found his the families and later attacked their Surayya was hit with woods man, but she had never been in a way to Australia in 2009 by boat, homes with heavy weaponry, in public in Rabat locality three relationship. Daily Mail reported. forcing 200 families to flee homes After spending some days in and climb a nearby mountain. He months ago, but recently a video “I was at my mother’s home, further said a six-month-old child of the lashing went viral on social a man who was like my brother jail, Baig reached Rockhampton was killed in the attack that media, prompting provincial and my husband’s friend, I gave in Central Queensland and destroyed all the houses. Another officials to arrest all those him my phone for repairing but at worked in the abattoir for over a resident, Khalid, said a number of involved. that time my uncle’s sons came month before the injury. women and children of the Gujar The detainees, including accused me of illicit relationship While moving a bull carcass tribe were sick and in critical Surayya, have been brought to the with that person and that’s why on an assembly line to the point condition but so far no provincial capital, Taloqn, for they took me to a kangaroo court where he was almost horizontal, governmental official had come to investigation. The victim told and beat with woods”. he felt pain in his back, the report their rescue. (Pajhwok) reporters here that she was beaten (Pajhwok) added. (Pajhwok)