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www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimes www.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes SATURDAY . DECEMBER 19. 2020 - Qaws 29, 1399 HS www.afghanistantimes.af

olence continues to surge around the country in the wake of peace talks. Wahidullah Jumazada, spokes- man for the provincial governor, said the at- tack took place on Friday afternoon in the Gilan dis- trict of the province. According to him the bomb went off after a man driving a motorized rickshaw entered a village to sell goods. A spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, Tariq Aryan said that the blast occurred when people were gathered to attend a Quran recita- tion ceremony. He confirmed 15 people were killed and 20 others wounded in the blast. But the provin- cial officials confirmed 11 children were killed in the blast. Provincial Governor Spokesman, Jumazada said that the blast occurred via a motorbike selling prod- ucts. The children were gathered around the motor- bike while the explosion occurred, he added. Accord- Afghan National Army soldiers keep watch on the outskirts of the main ing to him, 20 underage people were wounded in the city in a car bomb attack on November 29, 2020. blast. No militant group asserted responsibility for the attack. But the government has often blamed the AT News ing 11 children and wounded 20 for being involved in the attacks that inflicted others in eastern Ghazni province, heavy casualties on civilians despite the group’s dec- : A bomb rigged to a rick- security officials said on Friday. lination. sees a high level of violence ev- shaw has killed 15 people, includ- The deadly bombing comes as vi- eryday as the negotiation....

AT News

KABUL: The ministry of pub- lic health reported 254 confirmed AT News cases of covid-19 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total tally to KABUL: Prime Min- over 50,000 around the country. ister, Imran Khan met with Tal- Within 24 hours, 38 patients were recovered and five others iban delegation led by their dep- lost their lives to the virus. The uty leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, where the discussions total death toll reached 2,037 and were focused on the progress in more than 38,724 patients were the Afghan peace process and the recovered. The ministry said that way forward. Reiterating that it has tested more than 177,831 there was no military solution people for... to the conflict... SATURDAY. DECEMBER, 19, 2020 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

1,000 Afghan Richkshaw bomb kills 15, Female Journalists Left Industry Since mostly children in Ghazni 2014: NAI ...P1 teams of the government His spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi and Taliban agreed on a 22-day said that both sides expressed ...P12 pandemic and many peo- deferment to discuss the agen- concerns on the high level of vio- ple lost their jobs. This issue has das of the intra-Afghan negotia- lence. Milley assured US support raised major concerns for us, but tions with their leaderships. to the Afghan security forces, ac- we do not have any figures about On Thursday, the US Chief cording to Sediqqi. “Regarding the how many girls are left working of Army Staff, Mark Milley, on Afghan peace process, there is an in media because of threats,” said a visit to Afghanistan, met the urgent need for a significant re- Wahida Faizi, a member of the Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. duction of violence.” Journalists’ Safety Committee. NAI said that targeted kill- ings, gender discrimination and Intra-Afghan Negotiations a Historic On Thursday, a batch of 40 Af- sending back rejected Afghan asy- talks, Kabul and the Taliban have "Sending back asylum-seekers low wages are among the key Opportunity for Peace in Afghanistan: Khan ghan asylum-seekers arrived in lum-seekers to their country gives not agreed on a nationwide cease- at this time will only put their lives factors that have led to the re- Kabul from Germany after Ber- out a political message that Af- fire. Since September, suicide at risk," she added. duction in the number of female ...P1 in Afghanistan, Pakistan called on all sides for reduction in lin resumed deportation flights to ghanistan has become safe due to bombings and missile attacks in 'Abandoning' Afghanistan journalists in the country. Primer Khan during the meeting violence leading to ceasefire. The Afghanistan. German authorities a long presence of their militaries major Afghan cities have in- Afghan forces are not only Behishta Arghand is an Af- underlined that the Intra-Afghan Prime Minister highlighted that had suspended the program in in the war-ravaged country. Sus- creased manifold. In the past few battling the Taliban; "Islamic State" ghan female journalist who left Negotiations provide a historic return of peace and stability in March after the coronavirus out- pending deportations to Afghani- weeks, at least 10 government (IS) and other militant groups have the profession two years ago be- opportunity to the Afghan lead- Afghanistan would provide a break in the country. stan could be interpreted as their officials and their aides have been also strengthened their hold in the cause of low wages and other ers for achieving durable peace strong impetus to economic de- Since December 2016, the failure to bring peace and stability killed in bombings in Kabul alone. country. With most foreign forces social challenges. Behishta says and stability through an Afghan- velopment, regional integration, German government has deport- to the country despite spending "I want to go back to Germa- scheduled to pull out of Afghani- that her family stopped her from led and Afghan-owned peace and connectivity, benefitting Af- ed 937 asylum-seekers to Afghan- billions of euros from their taxpay- ny because Kabul is not safe," stan early next year, experts be- working outside the home fol- process, Khan’s office said in a ghanistan and the region. Accord- istan. Several German refugee ers' pockets. Wahidullah, a Kabul resident who lieve the security situation is like- lowing attacks on journalists. statement on Friday. ing to the statement, the Taliban NGOs had sounded alarm over Afghanistan, however, re- voluntarily returned to Afghani- ly to deteriorate in the coming “I think if this situation con- He expressed hope that the delegation’s visit is part of Paki- Wednesday's planned deportation mains volatile, with violent attacks stan from Germany, told DW. He months. tinues over the next few years, Afghan parties would continue stan’s serious efforts to facilitate flight from Leipzig/Halle airport taking place across the country had fled the country in 2015 af- "Leaving Afghan forces to we will not be able to see a wom- to build on the recent positive Afghan peace process to achieve to the Afghan capital. Deporta- almost daily. Its economy is in a ter sustaining injuries in a suicide fight this war alone will be a huge en working in the media,” said developments in the Intra-Af- a peaceful, stable, united, inde- tions of Afghan asylum-seekers shambles, with President Ashraf attack in the central Ghazni prov- mistake and will result in more Behishta Arghand. “Their secu- ghan Negotiations. pendent, sovereign and prosper- to their home country have re- Ghani's government heavily de- ince. "I came back thinking the bloodshed in the country," Sayed rity must be provided as soon as Mr. Imran Khan under- ous Afghanistan. One day prior mained controversial in Germa- pendent on foreign aid. The coro- security situation in Afghanistan Ishaq Gailani, the head of the Na- possible... this is a great loss for scored Pakistan’s consistent sup- to the meeting, President Ghani ny and elsewhere in the Europe- navirus pandemic has made the had improved, but I was wrong. tional Solidarity Movement of Af- our society and the journalist port to an inclusive, broad-based spoke with Imran Khan on the an Union, with rights organiza- situation even worse for Afghans. It has only become worse," he ghanistan party, told DW. community,” added Behishta and comprehensive political set- phone. Both sides talked about tions saying that Afghanistan re- There is a ray of hope though: added. Experts say the security "It is unfortunate that the in- Arghand. tlement. He also underlined the the Afghan peace process and ex- mains an extremely dangerous In September, the Afghan govern- situation in Afghanistan is not ternational community is abandon- Soman is an Afghan girl who need to be vigilant about the role pressed their concerns over the country. EU member states, how- ment and the Taliban insurgent conducive for deportations. ing Afghanistan despite all the se- worked day and night and man- of spoilers, who continue to escalation of violence in Afghani- ever, are convinced that big cities group started peace negotiations "The EU should at least wait curity agreements Kabul has aged to become a member of the make attempts to disrupt and stan. Pakistan Prime Minister in Afghanistan – including Kabul in Qatar, months after the US and until the peace talks situation is signed with different countries," journalism faculty at Kabul Uni- derail the peace process. said that his country will help Af- – are safe for the deportees to the Taliban signed a landmark clear because its failure and suc- said Gailani, adding that the Af- versity. But Soman was not al- He expressed concern over ghanistan to bring down the level start a new life. agreement to end the 19-year-long cess will have an impact on Af- ghan government is not capable of lowed by her family to continue the high level of violence and of violence leading to a ceasefire.. Is Afghanistan safe? violent conflict. ghans" Shahla Farid, a Kabul Uni- defending the whole country by her studies due to the threats fac- EU countries believe that Despite several rounds of versity lecturer, told DW. itself. (DW) ing journalists. “If this situation continues, Afghanistan sees rapid spike I am sure all of our youth will lose their hopes, I myself suf- fered a lot and couldn’t get to in COVID-19 cases my dream,” said Soman. Afghan- istan Among 'Deadliest Coun- ...P12 covid-19, of whom, warned the people that the virus tries' for Reporters 50,456 were tested positive. still exists in the society. The of- Back in April, Reporters To avoid the spread of the ficials recommended the people Without Borders (RSF) dropped virus, the government has shut to wear masks, take precaution- Afghanistan from 121st to the universities and wedding ary measures and behold social 122nd place in its newly-released halls. Health officials had earlier distance. 2020 Press Freedom Index, call- ing Afghanistan Pakistan, Phil- ippines and Bangladesh the Violence Should Be Top Priority "world’s deadliest countries for journalists and bloggers." When Talks Resume: Lyons Over the past one and half months, four journalists have ...P12 crime throughout Central dedicated support of this Coun- been killed in Afghanistan. and South Asia. cil,” she said. But she warned that sustain- However, she said that the 'Sensitive Military able peace will only be possible “unrelenting violence” in Afghan- Chief negotiator Masoom said, referring to a question about if it is inclusive from the outset, istan continues to put lasting Stanekzai on Thursday the road an interim government. “I don’t Equipment Given to with meaningful participation of peace at risk. forward in the peace process know what Mr. President’s re- Afghan Forces women, minorities, victims of Preliminary statistics reveal might be challenging and that the sponse would be.” conflict, religious leaders, and a rise in civilian casualties from peace efforts might open a new “Women want peace much Unaccounted' others. improvised explosive devices, as- wave of violence in the country more than anyone in Afghanistan She also said that although saults on schools, rocket attacks, will if people’s demands are not but what peace means to us? It is Afghanistan is coming to the end and targeted killings by anti-gov- addressed in the process. not just lack of war; it is justice, it ...P12 The goods transferred of a monumental year, authori- ernment groups. “When we’re on the negoti- is inclusivity and it is also a clear to the Afghan government are ties will still require internation- “It is no surprise then that ating table, whether it is the right future for “some of the most sensitive of al support as they assume great- the Global Peace Index for 2020 of the women, whether it is the that can be educated, can work and all defense articles” and were er responsibility for national se- ranked Afghanistan as the least right of the citizens, whether it is we could have political participa- supposed to be fully inventoried curity while battling COVID-19 peaceful country in the world for the lasting peace, because a peace tion,” said Fatima Gailani, mem- by the US every year, to ensure and other challenges. the second year in row”, she said. that does not last for long, then ber of the Afghan Republic’s ne- they were being used for their The “profound shift” “Such a ranking illustrates the that would mean that we will en- gotiating team. intended purpose and were not brought about by developments psychological impact of the vio- ter into a new cycle of violence,” Barnett R. Rubin, an Afghani- transferred to a third party with- during 2020, which include an lence.” Afghanistan is also among Stanekzai said. “It is a challeng- stan expert with the Center on In- out US government consent, ac- agreement between the United the most dangerous places in the ing time, a bumpy road. It will be ternational Cooperation, who also er Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. tempts to disrupt and derail the cording to the report. States and the Taliban, the start world to be a journalist, with six difficult, it will not be easy, but talked to the event, said that end- The discussions focused on peace process. But only 40% of the sensi- of intra-Afghan peace negotia- reporters losing their lives in we will need the support of ev- ing military presence in Afghani- the progress in the Afghan peace He expressed concern over the tive articles given to the Afghans tions, and a major donor confer- 2020, she added. Afghanistan is eryone, and we will be looking stan is important for the US than process and the way forward, high level of violence and called were inventoried between May ence, she mentioned. now facing a second wave of forward to the advice of both ex- finding a political solution. Khan’s office said. on all sides for a reduction in vio- 2019 and April 2020, the report “By all accounts this was a COVID-19 infections, resulting in perts, our Afghan fellow men and “The US has taken the posi- In this meeting, Khan reiter- lence leading to ceasefire. says, adding that about 5% of big year. But a bigger year lies increased hunger and malnutri- women and their support in tion that withdrawal is conditions- ated that there was no military The Prime Minister highlight- items that were supposed to have ahead”, she said. “Clearly Af- tion. The UN has scaled-up as- prayers.” The negotiating teams based. The Taliban do not accept solution to the conflict in Afghan- ed that return of peace and stabil- been tracked since October 2016 ghanistan will continue to move sistance, and Lyons encouraged of the Islamic Republic of Af- that. They retreated that in recent istan, adding that the Intra-Af- ity in Afghanistan would provide have never been inventoried at forward in this New Year, but countries to generously support ghanistan and the Taliban recent- days and basically stated that if ghan negotiations provide a his- a strong impetus to economic de- all. equally will continue to need the humanitarian operations. ly agreed on procedural rules for the deadline is not met then they toric opportunity to the Afghan velopment, regional integration, Inadequate tracking means the talks. They held three meet- would go back to war with the leaders for achieving durable and connectivity, benefitting Af- that “sensitive technology re- ings after their agreement on the United States as well,” Rubin said. peace and stability through an ghanistan and the region. mains susceptible to theft or US Gen. Milley Held Private.... procedural rules but paused their “The reason the United States is Afghan-led and Afghan-owned The statement said that the loss,” and the Combined Securi- meetings for three weeks to hold in a poor condition to force condi- peace process. Taliban delegation’s visit is part ty Transition Command-Af- ...P12 reporters, including one larly in the southern provinces of consultations with their leaders tionality is that the United States He expressed hope that the of Pakistan’s serious efforts to fa- ghanistan, which is responsible from the AP, who accompanied Helmand and , and on the demands that would be did not enter into this process be- Afghan parties would continue cilitate the Afghan peace process for monitoring the equipment, is him to Qatar and Afghanistan. against roadways and other infra- included in the agenda of the cause it decided peace agreement to build on the recent positive to achieve a peaceful, stable, unit- less able to verify that Afghan “Everything else hinges on that.” structure. peace negotiations. was the best solution in order to developments in the peace nego- ed, independent, sovereign and units “are using these articles in tiations. Khan underscored Pa- prosperous Afghanistan. accordance with their transfer Under ground rules set by “My assessment is, it puts Meanwhile, First Lady Rula protection it did so because it de- Milley for security reasons, the the peace process at risk — the Ghani in an interview with Radio cided the military option wasn’t kistan’s consistent support to an Taliban visited Islamabad af- agreements,” the report said. journalists traveling with him higher the violence, the higher the Azadi said the Taliban is not fa- working and wanted to withdraw,” inclusive, broad-based and com- ter the peace negotiations in Doha Two years ago, Afghan forc- agreed not to report on either set risk,” Miller said. Miller meets at miliar with governance and that Rubin said. The next round of prehensive political settlement, were paused for 23 days aimed at es told the US monitors that 19 of talks until he had departed the least once a month with Taliban their mindset has remained un- talks is expected to begin on Janu- the statement said, adding that holding consultations with their of 48 US-provided night-vision region, according to the report. negotiators as part of Washing- changed. ary 5. Pakistan Prime Minister he also underlined the need to be leaders about both sides’ demands devices had fallen into enemy It was Milley’s second un- ton’s effort to advance a peace “For God's sake, don’t do it, Imran Khan met with the Taliban vigilant about the role of spoil- that they shared verbally with hands and 29 were listed as de- announced meeting with the Tal- process. it is too dangerous,” Rula Ghani delegation led by their deputy lead- ers, who continue to make at- each other. stroyed, damaged or lost, the re- port mentioned. iban’s negotiating team; the first, In Kabul, President Ghani Security constraints and trav- in June, also in Doha, had not met with Gen. Milley on Wednes- el limitations in Afghanistan been reported until now, said the day evening, the Presidential Pal- make it difficult to monitor the AP. ace said, adding: "Both sides ex- AIHRC: 400 Civilians Killed, Wounded Over 3 Months in East US-provided equipment and The AP also reported that pressed their concerns over the how it's being used, the report Gen. Scott Miller, the top com- escalation of violence in Afghani- said. mander of US and coalition forc- stan and discussed the Afghan ...P12 another six members Mahmoud’s parents were serious- the fighting rages on, schools are ernment forces or the Taliban, the es in Afghanistan, said in an in- peace process and the immediate of his family, including his moth- ly wounded in the attack. “We closed, the situation is fragile and mortar took lives of civilians,” said Although US monitors aren't required to complete enhanced terview at his military headquar- need for a ceasefire." Gen. Mil- er and father. Shah Mahmoud, a were at home, two of our guests we can't even go for prayer,” said Ghulam Haidar, a resident in Al- ters in Kabul on Wednesday that ley also met Chief of Army Staff 9-year-old Afghan child, was were martyred, one of my sisters Malook, a resident in Alising. “A ishing. Residents in Laghman have inspections when security con- ditions prevent them from doing the Taliban have stepped up at- Gen. Mohammad Yasin Zia and wounded as a result of a missile was also martyred,” said mortar landed, I don’t know called on the warring sides to stop tacks on Afghan forces, particu- other Afghan officials. attack in eastern Afghanistan. Khairkhaw. “It's now 15 days that whether it was fired by the gov- the fighting as soon as possible. so, “not conducting all of the in- spections limits the command’s ability to verify reported num- bers of lost and destroyed arti- First Lady accuses lawmakers.... cles, and discover additional bro- Abdullah expected to visit Tajikistan ...P12 the core of the issues,” parliament. ken or missing articles the (Af- ghan forces) may not have re- she said in an interview with the “Among the nominees, there Radio Liberty. “But it is a mar- were a number of ministers who ...P12 countries to Afghanistan part, Tajik diplomat called the di Sharifi mentioned Tajikistan’s relations between the two frater- ported," SIGAR said. SIGAR recommended that ket for selling and purchasing are not rich but they were all ap- and expressed hope that his visit upcoming visit of Dr. Abdullah to supports to the Afghan govern- nal countries. The two also ex- votes to approve or reject some- proved,” he said. “If the approv- to Tajikistan would facilitate fur- Tajikistan a basis for further de- ment and its people in all spheres changed views on the current sit- US Defense Department change its monitoring procedures to one.” al was based on money, they ther expansion of cooperation velopment of relationship be- and added that Dr. A. Abdullah’s uation in Afghanistan, develop- She cited the remarks after would be not selected.” between the two countries, ac- tween Tajikistan and Afghanistan. visit to Dushanbe will pave the ments in the peace process and make them more suitable for Af- ghanistan. the parliament rejected a number The lawmakers had earlier cording to the statement. For his The Ambassador of Tajikistan Saa- way for further development of intra-Afghan negotiations. of ministerial nominees, whom accused the presidential palace of the lawmakers said, were not el- committing corruption after the igible for the position. Itelaat-e-Roz, a daily newspaper Hujatullah Khriadman, a revealed some reports of fraud 'Sensitive Military Equipment Given to Afghan... member of the parliament denied committed by the President allegations over corruption in the Ashraf Ghani’s administration.

...P12 impose their will or “The next stage of negotiation of force will only plunge the He cited the UN secretary- tively to secretary-general’s call seek gains,” Geng added. will feature substantive discussions country deeper into war. “We general’s report as stating that the for global ceasefire and stop the Taliban destroy road in Nimroz Noting that the Afghan peace with a higher level of difficulty. hope that the two sides will con- number of recorded violent inci- violence and hostilities without and reconciliation process “has Both sides need to show more solidate the positive momentum, dents in October this year was the delay,” the ambassador said. now entered a period crucial to political wisdom and resolve. The remain constructive and perse- highest since 2007. “The interna- “Under the current security ...P12 the Taliban of destroying The ministry of defense also its future,” Geng said that “Chi- international community needs to verant in talks, striving for an tional community should contin- situation, the withdrawal of for- the road in Ghazni and Kanda- said that a part of the Kandahar- na welcomes the first intra-Af- increase its attention and input,” outcome in favor of peace, and ue to support the Afghan security eign troops from Afghanistan har province. Uruzgan highway in Shahwalik- ghan negotiations launched in Geng stressed. find an effective political solu- forces in strengthening capacity should be orderly and responsi- Ghazni Governor, Wahidul- oot district of Kandahar was de- Doha on Sept. 12 and congratu- “History has proven time and tion at an early date.” building, combating terrorism, ble, in order to avoid leaving a lah Jumazada said that the Tali- stroyed by the Taliban. lates both sides on reaching an again that the Afghan issue can Talking about the security protecting civilians and improv- security vacuum to the detriment ban destroyed 600 meter of the The Taliban neither denied agreement on the rules and pro- only be resolved by political situation, Geng said that violence ing the security situation,” said of the national interests of Af- roads that connect the Ghazni- nor accepted its fighters’ involve- cedures for negotiations a few means,” said the envoy. in Afghanistan “remains unre- Geng. “China calls on all parties ghanistan and regional coun- Paktika highway in Andar dis- ment in destruction of the public days ago.” He underscored that the use lenting.” in Afghanistan to respond posi- tries,” he added. trict of the province. installation. SATURDAY . DECEMBER, 19, 2020 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Ali Sher Nava'i was born in 1441 in the western province of . He died in 1501.

Members of an Uzbek delega- tion to Afghanistan's Herat prov- evening and they discussed the ince said they plan to restore peace process and their concerns the shrine of the prominent phi- over the escalation of violence in losopher, poet and writer Amir Afghanistan, Presidential Palace Ali-Shir Nava'i. In a trip to Her- spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said. at, a high-level delegation from bdullah Abdullah, chair The working groups of both peace process," Abdullah said. gotiating team representing the Prime Minister Imran Khan Uzbekistan described the poet writers and intellectuals of his man of the High Coun teams held three meetings to dis- "A reduction in violence is at Islamic Republic of Afghanistan told President Ghani that Paki- Nava'i and his legacy as a com- time. There are about 370 works cil for National Recon cuss the agenda of the talks last the top of the agenda proposed by in the talks with the Taliban. The stan will help Afghanistan bring mon heritage of both Afghani- of his that are still in existence to- ciliation, spoke at a week. Their meetings were ex- Afghanistan (republic's side)," Kabul team returned from Doha down the level of violence, lead- stan and Uzbekistan, and a "con- day. He also had a great command women's gathering on Afghan pected to be held this week but Abdullah said. "Both sides must on Tuesday. ing to ceasefire, said Sediqqi. necting bridge." of languages including Turkish, peace in Kabul on Thursday and were delayed as the two sides come together and enter the main Before this, President Ashraf Islamabad in a statement said Meanwhile, the Afghan Uzbek and Persian. Navai, as one said that the Afghan peace pro- were consulting internally on the discussion in the peace process." Ghani in a cabinet meeting on that Khan had a phone call with Ministry of Information and of the great intellectuals, was an cess has “reached a special stage.” demands to be included in the Second round of talks Monday echoed NSA Hamdul- Ghani to discuss the progress in Culture (MoIC) said that Af- icon of mysticism and politics "For us, it was important that agenda of the talks. On Wednesday, Abdullah said lah Mohib to say that the second the ongoing Afghan peace pro- ghanistan and Uzbekistan have during the Timurid Empire and the the negotiations start. The nego- Both sides will resume their that the next venue for the second round of the peace negotiation cess and the strengthening of Pa- prepared to celebrate the 580th Khorasan dynasty. “We want to tiating team is working in a very meetings in Doha on January 5. round of peace negotiation talks talks should be held in Afghani- kistan-Afghanistan relations. birthday of Nava'i together. renovate the Shrine of Amir Ali- united way,” Abdullah said. He "With the release of the Tal- between the Islamic Republic of stan. The Taliban has opposed Khan reiterated Pakistan’s Life and legacy: Shir Nava's and its surroundings also said "support for the negoti- iban prisoners we should have Afghanistan and the Taliban will President Ashraf Ghani’s call to steadfast support for the Afghan- Ali Sher Nava'i was born in areas. We also plan to celebrate ating team helps the team work had a ceasefire or a significant re- be determined in coordination be- hold the next round of the peace led and Afghan-owned peace 1441 in the western province of his 580th birthday together with harder." “Hopefully the second duction in violence," Abdullah tween the negotiators from the two negotiations in Afghanistan, say- process for a political solution Herat. He died in 1501. During Afghanistan,” said Abdul Ghafar, round of the talks will start exact- said at the guttering, adding: "Un- sides, saying the issue of the ven- ing the request signals fear on the to the conflict in Afghanistan, it Navai's lifetime, Herat was un- the head of the Uzbek delegation. ly on time,” Abdullah said. fortunately, it didn't happen. ue shouldn’t cause any delays for republic's side. said. “The Prime Minister reit- der the rule of the Timurid Em- “We have specific plans for all The peace negotiations wit- Both sides must understand the holding the second round of the Reduction in violence erated Pakistan’s call on all the pire and it became one of the those assets which are part of our nessed a breakthrough earlier this war is not the way." talks. President Ashraf Ghani Afghan sides for taking measures leading cultural and intellectual culture and history,” said Rasoul month after the two sides agreed "The people of Afghanistan Abdullah made the remarks at spoke with Pakistani Prime Min- for reduction in violence leading centers in the Muslim world. Bawari, the Afghan deputy min- on procedural rules for the talks. expect optimal results from the a meeting with members of the ne- ister Imran Khan on Wednesday to ceasefire,” it added. Navai was one of the leading ister of Information and Culture.

s an Afghan boy grow : Nomads, locally ing up in a refugee known as Kuchis, in eastern Nan- camp in northwestern Societies that rebuilt their education systems after garhar province say they have no The Songlines Magazine was launched 12 years Pakistan, Ismail Khan war and natural disasters may offer lessons on how access to health and educational go with the aim of recognizing new and serious remembers his first lesson in the facilities and their livestock is singers in the field of music, said the magazine. power of education – and its dis- to close the learning gap opened by the pandemic. under threat of total loss as large ruption. In 1996, when he was in areas of pastures have been 6th grade, protests by Islamic mil- grabbed by powerful figures. itants shut down schools and gov- Around 80,000 families of ernment offices in the area for nomads live in Nangarhar prov- about four months, forcing him and ince but none of their children at- his siblings to stay home. tend any schools. “Those kids whose parents Around 40 families of no- were educated kept studying at mads live in Zangavi area of Jala- home, and were kind of ok,” he labad, capital of Nangarhar prov- recalls. “All those kids who did ince, but they are uneducated not study for four months were from several generations. struggling, and kept struggling for However, there is no pasture a year or two to get back to the left for their livestock besides lack- same level.” From his formative ing any healthcare or education days in the refugee camp, to his centers for children. years running a school in the war Most of tents in which no- zone of his native Afghanistan, to mads live leak during raining, now parenting his own school-aged while only a limited number of children in Kent, Washington, dur- them are secure against rainfalls. ing the coronavirus pandemic, Mr. Jumma Gul Sultakhel, a resi- Khan’s belief in the transforma- dent of Zangavi area, said that in tional role of education has stayed the past, they would graze their with him – as has his confidence animals on the riverside in the area, that students can eventually regain huge difference, say education re- only that students can recover ac- lent regime change – can create op- but it was now occupied and lost ground, given the right help. searchers. Trump, a Texas law- ademically, but that they can gain portunities for systemic reform powerful men had built houses As the pandemic shuts down suit, and democracy’s future “A healthy coping mechanisms for that might not otherwise exist. there. He said they had large ar- schools across the globe, warnings catastrophe, a pandemic is likely future challenges. “Your ability “The post-conflict reconstruction eas for pastures including hill- abound that acute learning losses, to have a negative impact on out- to cope with distress, your resil- environment offers significant op- sides and deserts in the province the limits of remote schooling, and comes,” says Emma García, an ience, your sense of belonging to portunities for policy reform and in the past, but now all the re- the cancelation of extracurriculars education expert at the left-lean- a community – there are many life system change,” says a 2005 gions were either grabbed or gov- The British Songlines Magazine ha’s personal experience as a refu- – coupled with widespread eco- ing Economic Policy Institute in skills that kids may have been able World Bank report that draws on ernment had launched projects has awarded Afghanistan’s fa- gee and her effort to present an nomic hardship – will create a “lost Washington. Nonetheless, she to develop,” says Dr. García. “If a database of 52 countries affect- there. Gul Zaman, another nomad, mous female pop singer Elaha alternative view of her homeland: generation” of youth, particularly says these negative effects can kids were able to develop resil- ed by war since 1990. This has complained that there was no Soror--and ten other singers from 'In the eyes of the world,' she says, in developing countries where be corrected after a few years if ience, that is going to be an asset been true of the war in Afghani- healthcare center in their area and various countries--a "Songlines 'Afghan identity is terrorism, war child labor persists. Yet Mr. teaching resources are redirected for the rest of their lives and also stan. Under the Taliban regime of no doctors visited them for their Music Award." and the Taliban and uneducated do- Khan’s experience is a reminder to students who most need them. when they go back to school.” Islamic fundamentalists from health. He said they also had no The Songlines Magazine was mesticated women who need help. that disruptions to education come Ismail Khan, an educator from Student assessments need to move 1996 to 2001, education was se- good economy to transfer their launched 12 years go with the I have tried to show other associa- in many forms, from wars and nat- Afghanistan who is now a U.S. beyond test scores to capture verely restricted for females, girls’ patients to city for treatment. aim of recognizing new and seri- tions with Afghanistan, such as the ural disasters to epidemics. And citizen, with his four children in such skills, so that educators can schools were closed, and madras- Zabit, another nomad, said nei- ous singers in the field of music, beauty of my mother language Far- while these crises have undeniably their backyard in Kent, Washing- reinforce and leverage students’ sas or mosque schools provided ther their ancestors nor their par- said the magazine. Elaha Soroor si and the diversity of our music.'” had negative impacts on education ton, on Dec. 11, 2020. Mr. Khan social and emotional capabilities most education. In the years after ents were educated and that was began her career with Afghan Star “The Newcomer award went to the – often hitting disadvantaged pop- used to run a school in the Af- that may have improved during the U.S.-led coalition overthrew the reason their children remained 12 years ago. “The prize which Afghan singer Elaha Soroor, also ulations hardest – research also ghan war zone and experienced the pandemic. the Taliban, school enrollment illiterate. “No doctors come here, was awarded to me by the Son- joint winner in the Fusion catego- shows that these impacts need not school shutdowns as a student “Resilience, tolerance, under- surged from about 1.2 million stu- we have no clinic, we live here glines Magazine was surprising ry with the band Kefaya, for the be permanent. Instead, they illus- in Pakistan. standing, sympathy, creativity – dents to top 9 million, including and this is our life, when it is rain- to me. I am really happy to share album Songs of Our Mothers,” the trate how adequate public resourc- Coping mechanisms Indeed, those are assets,” she says. Sys- more than 3.5 million girls, accord- ing, our surrounding become mud- the joy of this award with you,” Magazine wrote. Soroor dedicated es, well directed, can make set- from Afghanistan to Sierra Leone temic changes Another overarch- ing to the Afghan Ministry of dy and our tents leak,” he said. said Elaha Soroor. "After arriv- her two awards to “the women of backs temporary. Planning, as to the United States, there are ing lesson is that educational cri- Higher Education. Nik Mohammad Arman, in charge ing in London as a refugee, Elaha Afghanistan for their lives and sto- with any contingency, can make a some reasons for optimism – not ses – even those caused by vio- (CSMONITOR) of nomads affairs in Nangarhar, was introduced to award-winning ries that inspired the album. These acknowledged pasture areas had musicians and producers Al women represent something every- been grabbed and nomads lacked MacSween and Giuliano body around the world can learn health and education services. He Modarelli, who originally formed from," said the magazine. In the said he was working with the Kefaya in the UK city of Leeds Afghan Star music contest 12 years Ministry of Urban Development with renowned drummer Joost ago, Elaha Soroor finished in eighth and Land to resolve shortage of Hendrickx before migrating to place but she was awarded the best pastures for nomads. He said the London. Driven by a shared de- female singer of the event. “Elaha Ministry of Education had also sire to use music as a tool for Soroor participated in the 4th Sea- promised to provide mobile political dialogue and action, they son of Afghan Star at a time where schools for nomads next year. began to develop a fresh new the presence of women in the mu- Arman said that two mobile health sound and forged the themes, sic industry was very delicate; lat- teams were also active in the prov- narrative and title of Songs Of er she started her professional ca- ince which provided services to Our Mothers," said Songlines reer in the field of music outside nomads in 53 areas. Magazine The article contin- the country,” said Mustafa Aziz- ued: "The album draws on Ela- yar, the host of Afghan Star.

KABUL: Afghanistan Telecom sulted the Ministry of Hajj and “Our team submitted a report Regulatory Authority (ATRA) on Religious Affairs, Ministry of on the issue to ATRA Board after Thursday announced banning on- Education, Ministry of Public carrying out a comprehensive anal- line game Players’ Unknown Bat- Health, Ministry of Telecommu- ysis, and then a decision was tak- tle Ground (PUBG) in response nication and Science, psycholo- en to block this game on a tempo- to complaints from people across gists, parents, school headmas- rary basis considering its social and the country. A statement from ters, cyber security experts and security impact”, Omar Mansoor ATRA received by Pajhwok Af- other relevant sources on sus- Ansari, acting ATRA head was ghan News said the authority con- pending the game. quoted as saying. SATURDAY . DECEMBER 19, 2020 AFGHANISTANTIMES

In Palmer, Justin Timberlake plays the role of Ed- die Palmer, a man who returns to normal life after an imprisonment of 12 years. The crime and the subse- quent punishment also torpedoed his football career.

Isla Fisher was set to feature in the lead role in the series but had to leave the project due to "COVID-19 circumstances", reported Variety.

Hollywood star Kate Beckinsale cumstances”, reported Variety. murdering her husband, crimes riage and her own past. Trent is known for her big-screen roles has replaced actor Isla Fisher in The half-hour series, created by she says she did not commit, in O’Donnell will direct the show in movies such as Underworld Paramount Plus’ upcoming dark Rebecca Addelman, will follow an attempt to save her career. and also serve as an executive franchise, Pearl Harbor and Ser- comedy Guilty Party. Fisher was Fisher’s Beth Baker, a discredited While looking for the truth, Beth producer alongside Addelman, endipity, among other movies. set to feature in the lead role in journalist who takes on the story finds herself contending with Sam Hansen, Jimmy Miller, Joe The actor most recently starred the series but had to leave the of a young mother sentenced to Colorado gun-smugglers, click- Farrell, Jim Ziegler, Mike Farah in the Amazon Prime Video series project due to “COVID-19 cir- life in prison for maiming and bait culture, the stagnancy of mar- and Becca Kinskey. Beckinsale The Widow. (BBC) KGF director Ma Rainey’s Black Prashanth Bottom review: Viola Davis-starrer hits all Neel pens the right notes Bagheera for The trailer of singer-actor Justin of redemption. We do not know Timberlake’s Palmer is out. The what crime Eddie Palmer commit- film marks Timberlake’s return to ted (to see if he deserves a redemp- Sriimurali acting after a gap of three years. tion), but the film strikes the right The Fisher Stevens directorial also note. Justin Timberlake, who has stars Ryder Allen, Alisha Wain- not done a serious dramatic role, KGF director has predator roars for justice! (sic).” in 2014. The film was a big hit, wright, June Squibb, and Juno looks to be doing a bang-up job penned an action story for It is fair to assume that the film and Sriimurali and Prashanth be- Temple. In Palmer, Timberlake here, though admittedly, it is not actor Sriimurali. The revolves around a cop who fol- came talents to reckon with in plays the role of Eddie Palmer, a ideal to judge a movie based on film has been titled Bagheera, and lows some sort of vigilantism to the Kannada film industry. man who returns to normal life just a trailer. it will be directed by Dr Suri. The bring justice to perpetrators. Or it Bagheera will be bankrolled by after an imprisonment of 12 years. The official synopsis reads, poster was released on the occa- could be the story of an honest , a regular collab- The crime and the subsequent “After 12 years in prison, former sion of Sriimurali’s birthday. The police officer, who follows the law orator of Prashanth. Prashanth punishment also torpedoed his high school football star Eddie filmmakers released an intense in letter and spirit, and upholds Neel is currently busy wrapping football career. And now he is Palmer returns home to put his life poster, revealing that Sriimurali justice within its confines. Direc- up the production of KGF: back in society. He also forms a back together—and forms an un- is playing a top cop in the film. tor Suri was a dentist by profes- Chapter 2, which stars and bond with a young boy, though likely bond with Sam, an outcast Like Prashanth’s previous mov- sion before he turned a filmmaker Sanjay Dutt. Following which he he gets bemused by the kid’s pre- boy from a troubled home. But ies, the poster comes with a with Lucky in 2012. Sriimurali was will start shooting his next mul- Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom minute film, through a cast of ac- dilection for girly stuff. Eddie’s past threatens to ruin his punchy tagline: “When society the star of Prashanth Neel’s debut tilingual movie , for which movie cast: Viola Davis, Chad- tors who do almost agonising jus- Palmer appears to be a tale new life and family.” turns into a jungle..And only one movie , which came out he has roped in . wick Boseman, Colman Dom- tice to the story. There can’t be a ingo, Glynn Turman, Micha- better moment to tell this story el Potts, Taylour Paige than a year that has been about Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom loss, a year where racial disparity Bolo Hau Most Sikhs are against me: Kangana Ranaut movie director: George C spilled onto the streets — with Wolfe the fact that this is Chadwick Trailer: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom Boseman’s last performance add- movie rating: Four stars ing another layer of poignancy. Kangana Ranaut hogged headlines during the It’s about our history, our de- The angst of his young, restless, A Love sires, our pain, our struggles, our angry Black horn player keeps farmers' protests due to her pro-government stand. pursuit of recognition — this is crashing against the hardened Story with how producer Denzel Washing- stone determination of Ma Kangana Ranaut has said that due most Sikhs are against me, my ton describes what the Blues (Davis), leaving behind a detritus to her frequent outbursts, she has well wishers tell me no political music means to the Black com- of possibilities and denials. Those Hyderabadi offended a variety of people across party likes a vote repellent like munity. It’s a big burden to bear, around them are washed up in the the board. The actor said that since me, so clearly no political party and lighter pieces of work would churning, except the white Tadka! she has been speaking about nep- appreciates me, most of you crumble under it. However, ac- records owner and Ma’s manager otism in Bollywood, the film in- wonder why I do what I do. Well claimed writer August Wilson, on who know they just have to stand dustry has sidelined her. in a world beyond this world in whose play the film is based, clear of the ripples. Davis’s whole Similarly, Kangana said she has the world of my CONSCIENCE found a way to tell the story of body is a canvas where years of been speaking against reservations I am appreciated.” Kangana Ra- America’s painful history labour, both singing in the shad- and also clashed with the Karni naut hogged headlines during the through this course of one record- ows and then fighting for the lime- Sena, so “most Hindus” and Ra- farmers’ protests due to her pro- ing session in Chicago in the late light, play out. Covered in a sheen jputs, respectively, hate her. government stand. The farmers, 1920s. Now, screenwriter Ruben of glistening sweat, she is explo- She added, “I oppose Islam- mostly from Punjab, have been Santiago-Hudson and director sive like molten lava. But when ists many Muslims hate me, I protesting against the new farm George C Wolfe have found a she is singing, from “the gut”, and fought with Khalistanis…So now laws passed by the Parliament. way to capture it in a crisp 94- hitting you there”. Naomi Scott joins Legendary and : “Limbo” honored at Brazil terrifying: Ma Alter do Chao Film Festival Netflix seriesAnatomy Rainey cast Covid- 19 pandemic upended the entertainment industry, forcing of a Scandal recall Chadwick theatres to shut for about eight months to contain the spread of Boseman’s the virus while pushing all the money spinners and ready to re- final role lease titles of 2020 to resort to sundry OTT platforms. Now with theatres re-opening, Bolo Hau is slated to hit the big screens on 15th January 2020, making it the first Hindi release of 2021. The trailer of the film was re- leased digitally today. A frothy love story set in Hyderabad, Bolo Hau will see editor turned actor Jahnavi Dhanrajgir making her on screen debut. Ankit Rathi who has played a substantial role in Farhan Akhtar produced 3 sto- reys and earlier in Singham 2 and His fellow actors call it astonish- Fukrey, plays the male lead in TEHRAN – “Limbo” by Iranian name is tattooed by a young Ira- she tries to sell her belongings on- ing and movie reviewers used Bolo Hau. Jahnavi on the other filmmaker Ghasideh Golmakani nian, who is asked for a strange line. One of the customers is a words like heartbreaking. Chad- hand has been an assistant editor has won the Premio Pequenos- favor. Golmakani’s “Online man who enters her house and on superhit Bollywood films like wick Boseman’s final perfor- Grandes Relatos at the Alter do Shopping” was also screened at behaves strangely. A lineup of over mance, in the film Ma Rainey’s Gunday and Kick and worked as Chao Film Festival in Brazil. the festival that took place in San- 40 Iranian films, including “How an assistant director on Sultan Black Bottom, coming to Netflix “Limbo” is about a former Ira- tarém from December 9 to 13. to Dry Wet Wastes” and “2050, a on Friday, would always have prior to her acting debut. Direct- qi sniper who takes refuge in Iran The film tells the story of Year without Fish” by Reza ed by Tarun Dhanragir who had been bittersweet, but it’s also ex- and begins to tattoo the names of Donia, a young girl, who wants Khodadadi, competed in the event. pected to bring the late actor the played the role of Darcy in the all the soldiers he has killed in the to immigrate to continue her stud- “Angels Do Not Die” and “Snowy Indian remake of Pride. Actor Naomi Scott, known for privileged elite, and explores the kind of awards attention he never conflicts and wars in Iraq. The last ies abroad. Before leaving Iran, Heart” by Alireza Biglari. Charlie’s Angels and Aladdin, themes of sexual consent and won in his short life. “It’s a leg- has boarded Anatomy of a Scan- privilege. Scott will portray Oliv- endary screen performance,” said dal, a six-part Netflix series. ia Lytton, a parliamentary re- director George C. Wolfe. “He Emile Hirsch, Kate Bosworth cast in thriller The Immaculate Room Based on the bestselling novel searcher with a bright future approached the role with such of the same name by Sarah who’s facing a powerful adver- ferocity and gave his guts to the Actors Emile Hirsch, Kate Bosworth, Ashley dollars if they can stay in a per- Vaughan, the project hails from sary. Previously announced cast role, and that’s what you see up Greene and M. Emmet Walsh have joined the cast fectly white room for 50 days. But Big Little Lies creator David E includes Sienna Miller, Michelle on the screen.” Boseman, best of indie thriller The Immaculate Room. The mov- the room is much more than it Kelley and former House of Dockery and Rupert Friend. SJ known as the hero of Black Pan- ie, to be directed by Mukunda Michael Dewil, seems, and a hidden past and pri- Cards showrunner Melissa Clarkson, whose credits include ther, died in August at age 43, hav- hails from Productivity Media, according to The vate demons will reveal shameful James Gibson. According to The Succession and Jessica Jones, ing kept secret a four-year battle Hollywood Reporter. The story is about a seem- truths that they may not survive. Hollywood Reporter, the Lon- will helm the series. Kelley and with colon cancer. In Ma Rainey, ingly perfect couple who take part in a psycho- The details of their characters don-set show follows the story Gibson are attached as writers, the screen adaptation of August logical experiment that will earn them 5 million are not yet revealed. of a scandal among the British showrunners. Wilson’s stage play. SATURDAY.DECEMBER 19. 2020 -Qaws 29, 1399 H.S Vol:XV Issue No:120 Price: Afs.20

Shah Mahmoud, a 9-year-old Afghan child, was wounded as a result of a missile attack in eastern Afghanistan. Lyons called on all countries to continue to The Afghan Independent Human AIHRC said. “The Independent tial areas in the Alishing district pressure the parties to Rights Commission (AIHRC) on Human Rights Commission again of Laghman province. Residents the conflict to bring Thursday said that at least 400 calls on the warring sides to stop in Alishing district say they are about a sustained Afghan civilians were killed and the war and make peace,” said tired of war. Khairkhaw is a resi- reduction in violence. wounded over the past three Habib Shams, the AIHRC site of- dent of Islamabad village in Al- months in eastern Afghanistan. fice in the east. In the latest devel- ishing district. He said that on Out of the total number of opment, at least three civilians were Monday night a missile hit his fatalities, 114 civilians were killed killed and ten others were wound- house and killed his sister and and 300 were wounded, the ed after two missiles hit residen- wounded... 2,500 to 1,500. “2,400 female jour- Afghanistan Among 'Deadliest nalists and media workers were as- sociated with the media outlets in Countries' for Reporters Afghanistan. This figure could be around 1,500 now,” said Mujib Khalwatgar, the head of NAI. NAI – an Organization Support- in the industry for various rea- “Unfortunately, the financial and ing Open Media in Afghanistan- sons since 2014. According to economic condition of media out- -reported that over 1,000 female NAI, the number of female jour- lets came under pressure during Afghan journalists have left jobs nalists has now dropped from the coronavirus....

eborah Lyons, UN Secre tary-General's Special DRepresentative for Af- ghanistan on Thursday told the Security Council that she expects “violence will be a top priority The US Special Inspector Gen- from fiscal year 2002 through when the peace talks resume in eral for Afghanistan Reconstruc- 2017, the most recent year for early January.” Achieving sus- tion (SIGAR) in a report released which data are available), the US tainable peace in Afghanistan will on Thursday says the Defense government transferred to the Af- only be possible "if security anx- Department has failed to keep ghan government more than $28 ieties are addressed and the pro- track of surveillance systems, billion worth of defense articles and AT Monitoring Desk power,” Geng Shuang, China’s cess is inclusive from the outset, controls for laser-guided bombs, services, including weapons, am- AT News deputy permanent representa- with meaningful participation by night-vision devices and other munition, vehicles, night-vision KABUL: A Chinese UN envoy tive to the United Nations, told women, youth, minorities, vic- equipment provided to the Af- devices, aircraft, and surveillance KABUL: First Lady Rula Ghani said that Afghanistan’s future ar- the Security Council meeting on tims of conflict and religious lead- ghan government. systems. The report says the US accused the parliament of being rangements should be broadly the UN Assistance Mission in ers," Lyons said. "I ask all coun- The report says that since Congress has mandated that the US involved in corruption, saying representative and inclusive. Afghanistan (UNAMA). “The tries to continue to pressure the 2001, the US has made training government ensure that countries that the house has turned into a “In our view, Afghanistan’s international community should parties to the conflict to bring and equipping the Afghan forces receiving defense articles and ser- market for selling and purchasing future arrangements should be fully respect the will of the Af- votes. Wolesi Jirga (lower house) broadly representative and inclu- about a sustained reduction in vi- a priority of its reconstruction vices appropriately use and secure ghan people, and ensure the Af- AT News olence and expect that this will efforts in Afghanistan. them through a program called end- should respectfully discuss and sive, so that all parties, ethnic ghan-led and Afghan-owned ne- To support this priority, use monitoring. .... try to know... groups, and religious sects in Af- gotiation process,” said the en- be a top priority in the negotia- KABUL: Tajikistan Ambassador tions," she said. Lyons said the ghanistan can participate on voy. “No external forces should equal footing and share state be allowed to... to Afghanistan Saadi Sharifi had ongoing security transition, cou- recently met with Dr. Abdullah pled with the emerging reality of Abdullah, the Chairman of the international troop withdrawals, High Council for National Recon- have obviously added to the anx- ciliation of Afghanistan, and they ieties felt by the Afghan popula- discussed important issues of tion. “In the coming months, I mutual interest including the Af- anticipate that this larger securi- ghan peace process. According to ty transition will become a cen- the Tajik foreign ministry’s infor- tral topic in the dialogue amongst mation department, both sides Afghan officials, regional coun- discussed the upcoming visit of tries, and the larger international AT News the ministry of interior, Tariq Dr. Abdullah Abdullah to Tajiki- community,” she said. As region- Mark Milley, chairman of the US AP reported. Gen. Milley met for important part of the discussions Aryan said that this road was stan and other issues of coopera- al cooperation is critical to peace Joint Chiefs of Staff, held unan- about two hours with the Taliban that I had with both the Taliban KABUL: The Taliban rebels have part of the Kabul-Herat high- tion between the two friendly in Afghanistan, Lyons highlight- nounced talks with the Taliban negotiators on Tuesday and flew and the government of Afghani- destroyed an important road in way. The militants have always countries. Dr. Abdullah described ed the need to support efforts to peace negotiators in Doha, capi- Wednesday to Kabul to discuss the stan was the need for an immedi- Delaram district of southwestern tried to damage the public in- Tajikistan as a good neighbor, fight drug trafficking and transna- tal of Qatar, to urge a reduction peace process with President ate reduction in violence,” Mil- Nimroz province, security offi- stallations. The government of- friend, brother and one of the im- tional organized... in violence across Afghanistan, Ghani, the report said. “The most ley told three... cials on Friday. Spokesman for ficials accused ... portant...