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Karzai terms Pakistan’s shelling as blatant invasion By Farhad Naibkhel gion. “There is no distinction be- kistani troops on Lalpur of Nan- tween terrorist groups, and every garhar province, and other eastern AT News Report KABUL: The Ministry of Defense country should bear in mind that parts of Afghanistan and asked for (MoD) on Saturday, while strongly training, facilitating and support- explanation. These attacks caused KABUL: Hamid Karzai, the condemned the Pakistani shelling in ing militants is a mistake that they the displacement of civilians dur- former president strongly con- eastern provinces of the country, also would burn one day in that ing winter time. Moreover, the demned Pakistan army’s rocket said that all efforts on table to de- flame,” he added. On the other Deputy Foreign Minister showed attack on the eastern areas of the fend the country—if diplomatic hand, the Ministry of Foreign Af- his concern over the arrest of 150 country, calling it against all the channels not beard fruits. Accord- fairs (MoFA) on Saturday sum- Afghans in Islamabad and Rawal- international norms and principle ing to reports, Pakistan army had moned Pakistani ambassador to pindi and also to the closure of and “a blatant invasion” on the fired dozens of artillery shells on register concerns over border shell- Torkham and Chaman Gates Afghan territorial integrity. Sarkano district of Kunar province, ing. In a statement issued by against Afghan commuters and Pakistani army have targeted which resulted at killing of two ci- MoFA, said that Deputy Foreign merchants. Furthermore, Resolute the eastern provinces of Nangar- vilians. The shelling has been start- Minister, Hekmat Khalil Karzai Support Mission in Afghanistan har and Kunar after the suicide ed hours after a deadly explosion summoned Pakistani Ambassador expressed concerns over Paki- bombing in a Sufi shrine in Sindh, ripped in a shrine in Sindh province to Kabul, Abrar Hussain, denounc- stan’s crossing-border shelling, said claiming that the attack was of Pakistan. After the incident Pa- ing rocket attacks in Afghanistan. the both sides must work together planned inside Afghanistan. kistan allegedly claimed that Af- According to statement, “During and de-escalates the tensions. Karzai called Islamabad’s ac- ghanistan was behind the incident the meeting, the Deputy Foreign “Any increasing tension concern cusation that Kabul has hand be- and this issue simmered tension be- Minister expressed his condolence us, it is negative and it is risky,” hind the attack, “baseless”. tween Kabul and Islamabad. “Mil- for the recent suicide attack that Charles Cleveland, a spokesman “Afghanistan has been the itary preparations are in full swing took place at a shrine in Pakistan’s for RS told 1TV. “All sides and first victim of terrorism from the to defend the country, if diplomatic Sindh, in which innocent people every one of us have got to figure beginning until today,” Karzai dialogues failed to stop Pakistan lost their lives.” He furthered, the out and work together so that we was quoted in a statement, as say- border shelling in eastern provinces people of Afghanistan who are the can commonly address terrorism. ing. “What Pakistan is facing to- of Afghanistan,” said Chief of the victims of terrorism can understand “70 percent of IS (in Afghanistan) day is the consequence of its pol- Army Staff, Qadam Shah Shaheem. this pain because they witness such are former TTP members, they icies in the past decades.” He said that Afghan government fre- terrorist and rocket attacks every- stay corss the border, we have killed The former president called quently handed over documents and day masterminded on the other several leaders including top 12 on Pakistan government to have a witness to the Pakistan over pres- side of the line. “The Government ISIS leaders, we have killed the serious and honest cooperation ence of terrorists and their sanctu- of Afghanistan wants Pakistan to leader of PGG who was responsi- Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan expressed concerns over Pakistan’s crossing-border shelling, with Afghanistan and other re- aries in Pakistani soil, thus it is nec- take action against terrorist groups ble for horrible attack in a Pesha- said the both sides must work together and de-escalates the tensions. gional countries in combating ter- essary for Pakistan to hold practi- hidden in that country.” Deputy war school that killed over 150 rorism and extremism, to save cal steps against them in order to Foreign Ministers also denounced people,” the RS spokesman said. about 11 districts of Nangarhar and three and their numbers were in Nangarhar and a few hundred in both Afghanistan and Pakistan improve security situation in the re- the last night rocket attacks of Pa- “Last year, IS were present in now it has been reduced to two or 2,000 and now down t about 700 Kunar,” he added. from the inauspicious phenome- non. Five policemen, ICRC for safe, unconditional release 17 insurgents of abducted staffers killed in clashes AT News Report AT Monitoring Desk KABUL: The International Com- KABUL: Five Public Order Po- mittee of the Red Cross (ICRC) licemen (POP), and 17 insurgents has called for the safe and uncon- were killed in a clash in eastern ditional release of two staff mem- Kunar and western Herat provinc- bers abducted when their convoy es, an official said on Saturday. was ambushed on 8 February in Police Chief Brig. Gen. Juma Gul Himmat told Pajhwok Afghan Jawzjan province, an attack that News that the clash erupted after resulted in the killing of six ICRC militants attacked security forces staff members, the ICRC said in a post in the Khalkham locality of statement on Saturday. “We call Chapi Dari district. Separately, on the abductors’ sense of human- four Taliban insurgents were killed ity and request the immediate, safe and three others wounded in over- ABUL: Former President Hamid Karzai met Saturday with and unconditional release of our night clash in the Chesht-i-Sharif Kazakhstan Ambassador to Kabul Omirtai Bitimov, thanking Astana colleagues and to avoid taking any district of western Herat province, action that could endanger their a statement from 207th Zafar Mil- for granting education scholarships for Afghan students. He asked AT News Report itary Corps said. Security forces lives” said the Head of the ICRC har,” he noted. “Operations against suffered no casualties in the at- for further cooperation from Kazakhstan in this regard. Delegation in Afghanistan, Moni- KABUL: The Afghans army on Daesh will continue and they will tacks. It is worth mentioning that ca Zanarelli. “We do not want the Saturday said that 1,955 fighters be suppressed by Afghan forces last year a senior border police agony and heartache of this trage- loyal to Daesh (Islamic State) ter- in coming years,” he underlined. chief was killed in a bomb explo- dy to deepen.” “We also appeal rorist group had been killed in the Daesh is the cruelest terrorist sion in eastern Kunar province. In to all authorities and armed groups army operations in the past 11 group, and reportedly, its fighters that time, provincial police chief, operating in the area, to do their months of the ongoing Afghan year have recently abducted dozens of Juma Gul Hemmat confirmed that across the country. “This includes women and girls in eastern Nan- rd utmost to secure the safe release the 3 brigade border police Gen. of the two ICRC staff members, some of the leaders of Daesh who garhar and forced them to them (the Wali Jan was killed in an explosion and to avoid taking any action that were killed in different provinces fighters). Daesh fighters are ac- and saying, “a magnetic bomb this year,” Army Chief, Qadam tive in some districts of Nangarhar which was planted in the vehicle could endanger their lives,” he add- Shah Saheem said. He said that ed. The ICRC has been active in province particularly in Kot and of the officer was exploded in the Afghan forces intensified attacks Achin and they are attacking on Dangam district. The Taliban in- Afghanistan for three decades, as- Major concerns over insecurity and be reduced. “Once our first out- dent. The institutions overseeing against all terrorist groups, partic- the civilians. Daesh fighters also surgents frequently use Impro- sisting impartially victims of the ularly Daesh and achieved enough. torched hundreds of houses in vised Explosive Devise (IED) as the lack of budget provisions for line about election polling stations the election process have said conflict with medical care, food the election preparations and pro- is approved, we will prepare the many preparatory tasks remained “The Daesh terrorist group was Nangarhar province in order to cre- the weapon of their choice to tar- assistance, family contacts and the eliminated in Helmand province get the Afghan security forces and cesses remain voters rolls which we are already that have to be concluded before ate fear among people. The securi- dignified handling of human re- after their leader Abdul Raouf Kha- ty forces as well as the US forces the government officials. The Independent Election working on,” he said. the election. mains. It is a neutral, impartial and Commission (IEC) will send its Government has meanwhile “We want the IEC to consid- dem was killed.” He said that the are regularly conducting counter- independent organization whose terrorist group was also eliminat- terrorism operations to root out outline for the holding of Afghani- said the election schedule will be er the situation in detail and plan sole mission is strictly humanitar- Pakistan is bitten stan’s elections to the government announced in one month. exact electoral reforms. They ed in the provinces of Farah and the loyalists of Daesh terrorists by its complicity in the next day or two, secretary “In the discussions at the re- should prepare for the election tak- ian, the statement added. Zabul. Pointing to Daesh pres- who are attempting to expand foot- and spokesman, Gula Jan Abdul cent meeting in the presidential ing into account circumstances in Following the unjustifiable ence in Nangarhar provinces, he hold in the country. Daesh fight- snakes Badi Sayyad said on Saturday. palace, it was agreed to announce the country,” Yusuf Rasheed, ex- killing of six staff members and the said that it was wiped out in six ers’ footpath found around two Badi says in the IEC outline it the election schedule for the new ecutive director of Free and Fair abduction of two others, all ICRC districts, but did not clarify the years ago in Helmand province and Editorial page 06 is suggested that the number of year,” said Shah Hussain Murtaza- Election Foundation of Afghani- activities in Afghanistan have been districts. “Daesh only remains in later expanded to Zabul, Farah and polling stations in a few provinces wi, deputy spokesman of presi- stan said. (Tolo News) put on hold, it furthered. three border districts of Nangar- Nangarhar provinces. SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Geyer: The great game rages on in Afghanistan

ment head, Fazal Rabi Hamim, ex- pressed concern over the presence of thousands of rickshaws in Jala- labad and their impact on the envi- ronment. He said they had started removing gas kits from rickshaws and had so far removed the kits from 1,400 rickshaws. However, he said removal of gas kits would not be a proper so- lution until alternative automobiles were introduced. Ahmadullah, a resident of Jala- labad, said some rickshaws pro- duced much smoke due to high usage of oil and gas. Too much noise created by rickshaws in the city was another problem as people could not hear each others, he said. A rickshaw driver, Noorullah, said traffic officials used to remove WASHINGTON: If the world across the mountain passes. The gas kits from rickshaws that pro- today seems to you like a confus- attack became famous not only for duced high amount of smoke. But ing or confounding place, you are its bloody brutality, but for the fact he said some drivers to avoid such certainly not alone. Sometimes it that only one Brit survived, a Dr. action placed the gas cylinders in seems like a puzzle gone mad, with William Brydon. Barely alive, he hidden corners. pieces jumping up and down on staggered into Jalalabad, where “Gas does not produce much their own and leaving only a heap beacon fires and the sound of bu- smoke, but we use car oil that helps of unhappy and unrelated parts. gles had been used to guide any the engine work properly, but But think about it this way for possible survivors. Days would some drivers intentionally use high a moment: The world — and par- pass, Afghan scholars wrote after- amount of oil which is the cause of ticularly our American part in it ward, before the British realized high smoke,” he said. — is actually a series of stories, that he was the only one to get Health professionals say rick- and if you take those stories step through — left alive to tell the sto- shaws create many health prob- by step and analyze them, those ry. So now we see the Taliban, not lems such as respiratory and men- puzzle pieces can eventually fit dissimilar to those jihadis of near- tal. together into something that makes ly two centuries ago, having been Mohammad Shoaid Safi, a sense. A small piece of news, for formed by us, now fighting against health specialist, said high amount instance, just jumped out at me. It us, and the Russians, who were JALALABAD : More than partment has recently launched a ly being imported from India as in the city. They said the increas- of smoke and noise produced by hadn’t gotten much attention. I also players in that old Great Game, 35,000 rickshaws have been ille- drive to register rickshaws lacking well. The police chief said: “We ing number of rickshaws were pol- rickshaws created chest and men- speak of a respected American now back in Afghanistan support- gally plying roads in the provin- documents or illegally transferred order drivers to obtain license and luting the air and causing health tal problems in people. military officer, Army Gen. John ing the Taliban that drove them cial capital of eastern Nangarhar to the country. other necessary documents and related issues to dwellers. Local Experts believe increasing W. Nicholson Jr., testifying that out. Or, as The Wall Street Journal province, the provincial police Aqa did not name the country sure the law is residents say as many as three population, shrinking residential outside powers, led by Russia, wrote in one of the few articles on chief said on Thursday. from where rickshaws are being respected.”Meanwhile, resident, million people live in Jalalabad areas and absence of jobs in Jalala- have increased their interference in this development: “Moscow is Brig. Gen. Syed Gul Aqa said brought to Afghanistan, but in the health officials and experts said where the level of air pollution has bad are factors pushing the people the 16-year-old Afghan war in the befriending the heirs of the insur- most drivers of the three-wheelers past rickshaws were mainly rickshaws were creating multiple been on the increase. Provincial to eke out a living by driving rick- past year. Speaking before a Sen- gency that dealt the Soviet Union were without license, but his de- brought from Pakistan and current- issues from health to commuting environment protection depart- shaws in the city. (Pajhwok) ate panel, the general said that its most humiliating military de- Moscow has pushed a “false nar- feat and helped lead to its col- rative” to “publicly legitimize” the lapse.” Taliban. This band of bloody One has to wonder: Does this brothers is fighting bitterly against White House and this president, the Afghan government, which is Donald J. Trump, understand the supported by us and is most kind- nature of Vladimir Putin’s “poli- ly described as “shaky,” while the cies” or of these games you are war itself is said to be, at best, a veritably forced to play when you KUNDUZ : Esmatullah, a ten horrific moment . Esmatullah lost father Saheb Nazar said he was seven-year-old child who was in- incident, which he blamed on the “stalemate,” every day bringing get into these desperate, tribal, years old boy who lost one of his his left leg in the incident that also concerned about his son’s recov- jured in the abdomen, said: “I was insurgents. higher and ever more unsustainable, borderless parts of the world? Is legs to a mortar shell strike in shattered his many great dreams ery. He criticized the government sitting near the road when a mor- He said the mortar was fired disproportionate losses for the there any reason for us to be there, northern Kunduz province, is hop- and future ambitions. He wanted for its inability to maintain peace tar shell struck the area and injured from Char Dara district. He said poor Afghans. First let’s look at fighting the Taliban now and not ing for peace and stability to come to study and serve his country in and security in the country. “Our me and my friends. One of our the rebels wanted to spread fear the basic facts. To do that we have al-Qaida? Will there ever be a way to Afghanistan so children of his future. “I wanted to study and be- house is located close to the 3rd neighbors was killed. It was scary.” but they would not succeed. He to go back to the Russians’ disas- out, honorable or otherwise? age do not die or lose body parts. come a knowledgeable man, but I police district in Kunduz City. The Kunduz police chief Col. Ab- said efforts were underway to im- trous entry into Afghanistan in President Trump seems to “I was going home from school lost my leg before I could reach rebels fired a mortar that hit near dul Hamid Hamidi confirmed sev- prove security in Kunduz. 1979, an invasion that evoked mass think he can cut a deal with Presi- when a mortar shell hit very close those goals in life. If there is peace our house. Ten people including en residents of Kunduz City, in- The militants haven’t yet hatred of Moscow among the Af- dent Putin, but the Russian leader to us, I and many of our neighbors and security no child will be killed many children were injured,” the cluding children, were injured and commented in this regard. ghans and led to the Russians’ hu- is playing a different game. There were injured”, he said, recalling the or deprived of limbs.” Esmatullah’s father said. Naimatullah, another one was killed in the mortar fire (Pajhwok) miliating defeat and retreat 10 is no mystery about Putin’s inten- years later. It was mostly the Tal- tions or actions, from Libya, to iban, a group of rabid Islamic puri- Syria, to Yemen, to Bulgaria, to tans, who drove them out and then Afghanistan. As Brian Michael imposed a horrid terroristic re- Jenkins, one of the top analysts of gime. But where did these perfer- terrorism, put it in a recent speech, vid Taliban fighters come from? Putin is “rebuilding the Russian Why, they were the direct result empire by bits.” of our forming and arming what And we? Ironically, and sadly, were then called the “mujahedeen” it is we who have provided him in the 1980s. Once the Soviets left, with every possible opportunity we left too, until we came back to do so. Virtually every single one after 9/11 looking for the attack’s of the supposed Russian “victo- al-Qaida instigators. Since then, we ries” these days is built upon our have been fighting the Taliban as foreign policy blunders. In short, well as the al-Qaida remnants — most of our problems in the world ...P12 and Indians—it should ex- and now the Russians are again in are self-imposed, and thus, could pect frostier ties with its largest the “Great Game,” as the Europe- be un-imposed, if we only so export market and one of its big- an colonial fighters called the bru- chose. We were born as a nation gest defense suppliers. tal, destructive Afghan wars of the protected by two great oceans. But A report this month, co-au- 19th century. Just in case you’re especially since World War II, we thored by the Heritage not up to snuff on that game have crossed those natural protec- Foundation’s Lisa Curtis and the (which is the predecessor of the tive barriers to play ugly games in Hudson Institute’s Husain games we are now playing), let’s the eternally doomed, borderless Haqqani, urged the Trump admin- go back for just a moment to 1842. Afghanistans of the world, provid- istration to “make it more and more That January, 4,500 British sol- ing our enemies with opportunity costly” for Pakistan to support diers, along with 12,000 Indian after opportunity. How many terrorist proxies. Georgetown camp followers and 2,000 horses, more, O Lord? Georgie Anne Gey- University’s C. Christine Fair, the camels and cattle, were “retreat- er has been a foreign correspon- author of a highly regarded book ing” from Kabul to Jalalabad when dent and commentator on interna- on the Pakistani army, argues that they were attacked by Afghan “ji- tional affairs for more than 40 Pakistan “continues to behave as hadis” (yes, the term was used years. She can be reached at an enemy by taking U.S. money then) and utterly destroyed, their [email protected]. while supporting the Taliban who blood coloring the ice and snow (COMMERCIAL-NEWS.) kill U.S. troops and civilians as well as those of our Afghan and inter- national allies.” Testifying before Congress last week, Gen. John. W. Nicholson, the commander of U.S.-led inter- national forces in Afghanistan, spoke of Pakistan’s less-than-help- ful role in Afghanistan. “It’s very difficult to succeed on the battle- field when your enemy enjoys ex- ternal support and safe haven,” he MINSK: Belarus and Afghani- firmed their participation in the said. stan plan to set up joint food pro- international expo Belagro 2017. Most experts do not believe cessing ventures, BelTA learned Apart from that, the delega- the U.S. should immediately take from the press service of the Be- tion showed interest in implement- the radical step of classifying Pa- larusian Agriculture and Food Min- ing joint mechanical engineering kistan as a state sponsor of terror- istry. Belarus' Agriculture and Food projects. In 2016, the trade be- ism alongside Iran, Sudan and Syr- Minister Leonid Zayats held talks tween Belarus and Afghanistan ia. This would end U.S. military with an official Afghan delegation totaled $26.4 million, up by 60% aid to Pakistan and trigger an array in Minsk on 17 February. Mem- from 2015. Belarus exported $15.5 of other punitive measures. Pakistani soldiers stand guard at a checkpoint in Parachinar, capital of the Kurram tribal district, on Jan. bers of the delegation invited Be- million worth of products and im- But Ms. Curtis and Mr. larus to establish joint food pro- ported goods to the tune of $10.9 Haqqani, among others, believe 22. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE/ GETTY IMAGES cessing ventures in the territory of million. The country had a trade that “it should be kept as an op- Afghanistan and develop joint surplus of $4.6 million. Belarusian tion for the long term.” They rightly on a list that includes, among oth- groups active in Afghanistan, the Asking for greater global sym- the generals in Rawalpindi to pay brands. It was suggested that Be- agricultural organizations sold $6.4 surmise that after many years of ers, such steadfast U.S. allies as Haqqani network and the Afghan pathy may be understandable, but attention to the changing mood in larus could supply to Afghanistan million worth of products to Af- failing to change Pakistan’s behav- Australia, Israel and Japan. Taliban, have long enjoyed safe it won’t solve the problem. Had Washington. flour, beef, poultry meat, and dairy ghanistan in 2016, up by 40% from ior with carrots, the U.S. needs to Attaching stricter conditions haven in Pakistan. As do India-cen- its army not fostered a witches’ Several terrorist incidents in the products, the press service said. 2015, and imported $10.9 million wield a bigger stick. to aid may also help. Since 9/11 tric groups such as Lashkar-e-Tai- brew of terrorist groups and jihad- U.S., including the 2015 San Ber- Besides, Leonid Zayats invit- worth of products (a 25 times in- For starters, Washington the U.S. has given Pakistan more ba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. ist madrassas in its crazed pursuit nardino attack, have been traced ed the Afghan side to work togeth- crease). Belarus' major exports should review Pakistan’s status as than $33 billion in aid and military U.S. calls for a comprehensive of parity with a much-bigger In- to Pakistanis or Pakistani-Ameri- er to organize training of students were oil products ($8.1 million), a major non-NATO ally, which reimbursements. In the first few crackdown on terrorist groups are dia, Pakistan would be a calmer cans. “We are just one truck bomb from Afghanistan at Belarusian tractors and tractor units ($6.2 was granted by the George W. years of this assistance, the Paki- often met with resentment in Pa- place. away from the Trump administra- agricultural universities and also million), pharmaceutical products Bush administration in 2004. At stani army helped nab several high- kistan. Many Pakistanis argue that For the Trump administration, tion saying ‘Okay, we need to act advances training courses for spe- packed for retail sale ($262,000), the time this was a sweetener to and mid-level members of al Qae- their country also suffers from the countering terrorism, and the ide- against Pakistan,’ “ warns Mr. cialists in all fields of agricultural and car and tractor parts and ac- get military strongman da, though not bin Laden or his scourge. This week, for instance, ology of radical Islam more broad- Haqqani. production. cessories ($202,400). Belarus Gen. Pervez Musharraf to coop- deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri, who suicide bombers killed at least 70 ly, is near the top of its agenda. Mr. Sadanand Dhume is a res- The parties signed a memoran- mainly imported fruit (apricots, erate more closely against al Qae- is widely believed to still be in people in Lahore, Peshawar, a Sufi Mr. Haqqani, a former Pakistani ident fellow at the American En- dum of understanding in matters cherry, sweet cherry, peaches), da. But it has become increasingly Pakistan. shrine in Sindh and the tribal areas ambassador to the U.S., says this terprise Institute and a columnist related to cooperation in agricul- tomatoes, cabbage and other vege- hard to argue that Pakistan belongs But the deadliest terrorist bordering Afghanistan. makes it even more important for for WSJ.com. ture. The Afghan delegation con- tables (fresh and frozen). SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Bärbel Kofler has urged the government to stop deporting rejected Afghan asylum seekers to their home country. Some 12,000 have been asked to leave, despite Afghanistan not being considered a "safe countries of origin."

Germany needs to reassess its in- control. The country is not on tegration policy, the Bundestag's Germany's official list of "safe human rights commissioner, Bär- countries of origin." bel KoflerHuman rights commis- "The security situation in Af- sioner (SPD), said on Saturday, ghanistan may vary from region to EMERGENCY amid growing concerns over the region, but one cannot say that the deportation of rejected Afghan situation anywhere in the country CALLS asylum seekers back to their home is particularly good," Kofler said. country. "The situation in Afghan- She also indicated that many Police istan hasn't changed," Kofler told Afghan asylum seekers, legal or the German "Passauer Neue otherwise, had integrated success- Presse" newspaper. "Rather, it's fully in Germany and "found their 100 - 119 the domestic political situation place in society." They, and the here that has changed. People Germans who have supported shouldn't be the ones carrying the them, cannot understand "why Hospitals burden of this upheaval." Deut- they are suddenly being torn away schland Bärbel Kofler (picture al- from their homes," she said. FMIC Hospital liance/dpa/B. v. Jutrczenka) Kof- The issue of deportations has Behind Kabul Medical ler: People should not bear the put the federal government at odds burden of Germany's domestic with some states. While deporta- University: political upheaval. Of the 250,000 tions are a state matter, the federal 0202500200-+93793275595 Afghans living in Germany, 11,900 government has made clear that it have been asked to leave the coun- wants to play a bigger role in the try since mid-December, accord- matter. German Chancellor Angela Rabia-i-Balkhi Hospital ing to the German Interior Minis- Merkel's CDU party has been Pule Bagh-e- Umomi try. The policy has prompted out- pushing for speedier repatriations 070263672 cry and protests across Germany, of failed asylum seekers following as large parts of Afghanistan re- December's terrorist attack on a main violent and under Taliban Berlin Christmas market. (DW) Kofler: People should not bear the burden of Germany's domestic political upheaval. Khairkhana Hospital 0799-321007 2401352

Indira Gandhi Children Hospital, Wazir Akbar Khan, Kabul 2301372 Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his Turkmenian counterpart, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Ibn-e- Seena have discussed on the phone im- Pul-e-Artan, Kabul plementation of the Turkmenistan- Afghanistan-Pakistan-India 2100359 (TAPI) gas pipeline project. Both the leaders on Thursday also discussed further development Wazir Akbar Khan of bilateral relations and regional Hospital as well as international policy, Tolo 2301741, 2301743 News reported. The construction of the project began in December 2015 and the pipeline is expected Ali Abad to be operational by 2019. Berdimuhamedov also invited Shahrara, Kabul Ghani to visit Turkmenistan. FAIZABAD : At least four peo- in Shaghnan district of Badakhs- 2100439 The total length of the TAPI ple have died and eight others in- han. pipeline would be 1,814 km and jured in snow avalanches in three She said 73 families had been its annual capacity is likely to districts of northeastern Badakhs- displaced and roads from the cen- Malalai Maternity reach 33 billion cubic metres. han province, public representa- tre district to villages had been A 214-km section of the pipe- tives said Saturday. closed by heavy snowfalls. Hospital line will run through Turkmeni- Provincial council secretary Sayed Abdullah Dehqan, the 2201377/ 2301743 stan, 774 km through Afghanistan Ahmad Javid Javid said two peo- Natural Disasters Management and an 826 km section will run ple lost their lives to avalanches in Authority head for Badakhshan, through Pakistan to reach Fazilka Makatai area of Kohistan district. confirmed four people were killed Banks town in India's Punjab province. A third person was killed and and eight others injured in ava- (MILLENNIUMPOST) three others injured in another av- lanches in three districts in the past Da Afghanistan Bank alanche in Khambavi area of the two days. 2100302, 2100303 district. He said needed aid would be Farhnaz Pamiri, a provincial distributed to the affected families council member, said one person by the emergency committee as Bakhtar Bank was killed and two others injured soon as possible. (Pajhwok) 0776777000 Azizi Bank 0799 700900 Torkham closure Pashtany Bank affects merchandise 2102908, 2103868 also called on NATO members to Air Services spend more on their militaries. By Shamim Shahid both the government to resolve the Pence says the "time has come" issue amicably and let the trade, Safi Airways for allies to boost spending because business and transport communi- the dangers they all face are grow- PESHAWAR: In the wake of grow- ties to continue their routine busi- 020 22 22 222 ing and changing every day. ing tension between Pakistan and ness. He recalled that since previ- He adds that failure to meet Afghanistan, erupted with latest ous May ( 2016), Pak Afghan bor- Ariana the spending commitment under- acts of violent, Pak Afghan border der frequently closed for travelling mines the alliance's ability to come at Torkham remain close for sec- and transportation, badly affect- 020-2100270 to each other's aid. ond consecutive day on Saturday. ing trade relations between the two U.S. Vice President Mike Due to closure of Pak Afghan neighbouring countries. Kam Air Pence says the United States will de-facto border for every sort of Due to closure of border there "hold Russia accountable" even as traffic and travelling, hundreds of exists curfew like situation in bor- 0799974422 President Donald Trump searches trucks and trollers loaded with ed- der town of Torkham. Almost for new common ground with Rus- ible items like fresh fruits and veg- shops, trade centres and restau- Hotels sia at the start of his presidency. etable along with commercial goods rants are locked whereas hundreds Pence says at the Munich Se- are stranded on both sides of the of vehicles are stranded right from Safi Landmark curity Conference in Germany that border. Similarly, thousands of Torkham till Hayatabad Peshawar. with regard to Ukraine, the inter- people from both the countries Beside goods trucks, hundreds of 020-2203131 national community must hold stranded due to closure of Pak Af- taxi motor cars are also parked in Russia accountable and demand ghan border. border town of Landi Kotal and SERENA that it honor a 2015 peace agree- Zia Ul Haq Sarhadi Senior Vice Peshawar. Closure of border also ment aimed at ending the fighting Chairman of Pakistan and Afghan affecting routine trade and busi- 0799654000 in eastern Ukraine between gov- Joint Chamber for Commerce and ness in activities in Landi Kotal ernment forces and Russia-backed Industries while talking to VOA and Hayatabad Peshawar. New Rumi Restaurant separatists. said that border closure and ten- Reports from border town of He's offering assurances of the sions between the two neighbour- Landi Kotal reveal that security 0776351347 U.S. commitment to NATO and ing countries badly affecting bilat- forces continued shelling of hide- the European Union in remarks at eral trade. He said that in a period outs of militants associated with Internet Services an international conference of for- of one year, this border was closed banned Tehrik Taliban Pakistan eign diplomats and defense offi- for traffic and travelling for around Jumaat Ul Ahrar across the border UA Telecom cials. four times. in Afghanistan. Though Pakistani 0796701701 / 0796702702 MUNICH The Latest on U.S. Vice Chancellor Angela Merkel have the Munich Security Conference Pence's speech comes amid In response to a question, he authorities claiming inflicting of President Mike Pence's trip to committed to continue close co- of foreign diplomats and security concerns in Europe about Russian said that the armed forces took the heavy human and logistic losses Exchange Rate Europe (all times local): operation on a range of global is- officials. aggression and Trump's positive action of closing border in accord- to militants but there is no confir- The White House says Vice sues. The leaders met after sepa- Pence said the US would hold statements about Russian Presi- ing to national interests and as Pa- mation of such reports from the President Mike Pence expressed rately addressing a security con- Russia accountable and offered re- dent Vladimir Putin. kistani citizens he does support independent sources. Purchase: support for Afghanistan's nation- ference in Munich. assurances that the U.S. strongly U.S. Vice President Mike the move. On such grounds, he Meanwhile, official claimed al unity government during a meet- Pence and Merkel also dis- supports NATO. Pence is offering assurances that said there is no need to protest or that three hard core militants were One US$ = ing with Ashraf Ghani, the coun- cussed the need for NATO mem- Merkel pointed to the need to the United States strongly sup- to request the authorities con- killed during security forces action 66.75Afs try's president. ber countries to meet their "bur- preserve and strengthen multilat- ports NATO and "will be unwa- cerned to allow resuming of rou- on Maddi Road in Dera Ismael The leaders met on the side- den-sharing" commitments. The eral partnerships such as the Eu- vering in our commitment to this tine trade and transportation on Khan City on mid night between One Pound Sterling= lines of a security conference in White House says they also agreed ropean Union, NATO and the trans-Atlantic alliance." Pak-Afghan border. Friday and Saturday. 80.87Afs Munich. They talked about ways that the alliance must continue to United Nations. He says President Donald Mr. Sarhadi recalled that due The security forces action was One Euro = to improve relations between their transform itself to meet 21st cen- U.S. Vice President Mike Trump "will stand with Europe." to deteriorating relations between in according to government’s lat- countries and advance mutual in- tury threats. Pence is reinforcing the Trump Pence is addressing the Mu- the two countries bilateral trade est policies after worst terrorist 70.05Afs terests, particularly on countert- Pence thanked the chancellor administration's message that nich Security Conference in his first was reduced from 2.5 billion US acts in different parts of the coun- 1000 Pak Rs = errorism cooperation and economic for leading on Ukraine and ex- NATO members must spend more overseas trip as vice president. dollars to one billion dollar. He try. So far there is no further de- 611Afs development. pressed appreciation for Germa- on defense. The vice president's speech confirmed sharp decline in Paki- tails of military action. The White House says they ny's contributions in Afghanistan NATO's 28 member countries was aimed at reassuring skeptical stan’s exports to Afghanistan and The officials said that killed Sale: also affirmed the importance of and to the coalition fighting the promised in 2014 to commit to allies in Europe about American also diverting of maximum transit militants identified as Maqboo One US$ = continuing the "strategic partner- Islamic State group. spending 2 percent of their gross foreign policy under Trump along trade to Central Asian Republics alias Booli, Saad and Shafi. Gov- 66.95 Afs ship" between the U.S. and Af- U.S. Vice President Mike domestic product on defense with- with U.S. willingness to maintain and neighbouring Iran. ernment has already declared RS ghanistan. Pence and German Chancellor An- in a decade. Pence says in remarks international partnerships. Pence's Shakir Afridi President of one million as head money on One Pound Sterling= Pence is also scheduled to meet gela Merkel are meeting along the at a security conference in Germa- trip to Germany comes as Euro- Khyber Transporters Association Maqbool alias Booli. 81.67Afs with Iraqi Prime Minister Haider sidelines of the Munich Security ny that only the U.S. and four other peans are skittish that Trump may has shown displeasure over clo- Two days back, militants at- One Euro= al-Abadi (HY'-dahr ahl ah-BAH'- Conference. NATO members are meeting the promote isolationist tendencies sure of the border, which he said tacked a police mobile van in Dera 70.65 Afs dee). The White House says Vice The two leaders retired behind standard. and not hold Russia accountable. causing numerous economic hard- Ismael Khan, causing lives to at President Mike Pence and German closed doors after both addressed President Donald Trump has (HOSTED.AP) ships to people. He called upon least five including four policemen. 1000 Pak Rs= 619 SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Bangladesh PM says US threatened her over Yunus' Grameen Bank sacking

She has alleged US government officials had also threatened her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, an expatri- ate in that country, with causing 'other problems than Padma funds'. "The American ambassador threatened me at my office (on sev- eral occasions) to stop the Padma Bridge funds if Yunus was removed Director General Health Services in suicide bombings in Jacobabad vestigation or distract the authori- ferent places in Sehwan. security agencies obtaining data of sampling investigation. from Grameen Bank as its MD," Sindh Dr Hassan Murad Shah on during Ashura and at Shikarpur’s ties’ attentions." The shrine had not yet been all calls, incoming and outgoing, Some remains were still she told a programme in Munich Saturday confirmed that the death shrine, and then again last year in Sehwan police had lodged a opened to the general public due that have touched the towers of present on the premises of the on Friday. toll from the Lal Shahbaz Qalan- Shikarpur on the second day of case on Friday against one suicide to security concerns. However, different cell phone companies in shrine, “But these can’t be used "Assistant Secretary Blake dar attack had risen to 88 since Eidul Azha. bomber and three facilitators in- police authorities had decided to a given area. for sampling so they will be dis- (Robert O Blake) came and spoke Friday night. According to an offi- “There might be some handler volved in the Feb 16 suicide bomb- provide controlled access to devo- In the present case, the author- posed of accordingly," said a po- in the same tone. Hillary Clinton cial list of casualties, which he or facilitator of the suicide bomber ing at the shrine of Lal Shahbaz tees to the shrine. ities have obtained data from all lice officer. called me…same thing happened," shared with the media, 76 bodies who must have provided him lo- Qalandar. The accused remained “Dhamaal will not be affect- cell phone companies’ towers lo- Speaking to media, Jamshoro she said. were received and handled at the gistical support. Our initial assess- unidentified. ed. It will be performed as per cated in Sehwan and around the SSP Tariq Wilayat admitted that "Even my son Joy had been Shah Abdullah Institute of Medi- ment is that the suicide bomber The First Information Report schedule, as was seen on Friday shrine. “After obtaining that data there was a security lapse despite called to the State Department cal Sciences, four at the People's must have been facilitated by three for the case was lodged for crime evening after the shrine was we then analyze that data to see police presence in the shrine. thrice. He was told, 'You'll face Medical University (PMH) Hos- people," he said. no 16/2017 under Sections 302, cleansed of debris, fittings, and which numbers are apparently sus- “There is security always problems. Hillary won't take it pital in Shaheed Benazirabad, and According to a police official, 353, 324, 295, 120/B, 440, 149 of other stuff that had fallen on the picious from their frequent incom- present in this area. It was even lightly. Please wise up your moth- eight at Chandka Medical Univer- “It will be premature to share any- the Pakistan Penal Code, 3/4 of the floor. The courtyard and inner sanc- ing and outgoing calls”, said a po- present during the blast, which is er'," Hasina added. sity Hospital in Larkana. thing or take any position at this Explosive Substance Act and 6/7 tum of the shrine was also lice officer. why one of our police officers was The World Bank signed a $1.2 The Sindh government will point of time, as such cases always of the Anti Terrorism Act. washed”, a source said. Police had Till Saturday, the authorities martyred as well. However, it is billion loan agreement with Bang- have the case investigated through offer different angles of investiga- A police source confirmed that also completed the geo-fencing part had not handed over unidentified obvious that there was some sort ladesh in 2011 for the Padma Sindh police’s Counterterrorism tion and commenting on them im- an unspecified number of suspects of the investigation. remains of the victims, as police of lapse, and that lapse will be iden- Bridge project. Department (CTD), as was done mediately is likely to spoil the in- were detained during raids at dif- Geo-fencing entails police and wanted to complete their DNA tified." (DAWN) Financial regulators Bang- ladesh Bank removed Yunus from Grameen Bank as its managing di- rector the same year because his age violated the existing service rule. He challenged the order in UN envoy on court but lost. When Yunus was active with 'various activities' to continue as the bank's MD, the World Bank Myanmar to put the Padma Bridge deal on hold alleging suspected corruption. The then communications minister Syed Abul Hossain had visit Bangladesh to step down following conditions set by the global lender for the funds. Seven government officials, including a secretary, were arrest- Feb 20-23 ed. At one stage of the tug of war, The United Nations Special Rap- expert, who plans to visit Cox’s the government withdrew its re- porteur on the situation of human Bazar and related areas, will focus quest for the fund and decided to rights in Myanmar, Yanghee Lee, on the situation of the specific build the bridge fully with domes- will visit various locations in Bang- population from Myanmar who tic resources. ladesh’s Cox’s Bazar district where had crossed into Bangladesh since Yunus' alleged role in getting people fleeing Myanmar are resid- October 9 last year and the events the Washington-based World Bank ing temporarily in makeshift shel- which have led to their crossing to pursue the graft allegation re- ters. Lee, will visit Bangladesh over into the country, according to cently returned to discussions af- from February 20 to 23. a UN press release issued today in ter a Canadian court acquitted three “The announcement that the Geneva. “Having access to these business executives of charges of military security operations in the affected communities would help planned bribing of Bangladeshi of- north of Rakhine has ceased is give me a better understanding of ficials. It cited inadmissibility of welcomed. However, we cannot their human rights situation in My- prosecution evidence in court. forget the numerous allegations of anmar,” she said. Following her Awami League leaders are now grave human rights violations re- three-day visit to Bangladesh, the demanding punishment of Yunus corded by the team deployed by human rights expert will issue an for 'conspiring' to have the World the UN High Commissioner for end of mission statement and share Bank funds cancelled. The High Human Rights to Cox’s Bazar last her findings when she presents a Court has issued a rule seeking an month,” Lee said recalling the Feb- new report to the UN Human explanation why it should not or- ruary 3 OHCHR’s flash report Rights Council on 13 March 2017. der a trial of the Padma Bridge 'con- based on the testimonies of over The report will be posted online. spirators'. On Thursday, Yunus 200 individuals. The human rights (THEDAILYSTAR) Centre said in a statement that the Nobel laureate 'never made any statement privately or publicly to anyone about the possibility of corruption in the Padma Bridge PM Lee hopes project at any time'. Hasina won- dered at the programme in Germa- BENGALURU: As Indian Air 2017 military exposition, adding both sides; it has around 240 de- sion will be ready within 84 ny: "Why a person is so greedy to Force has taken delivery of its first that India will be only the second grees coverage. But that does not months. The AEWCS will sup- remain a bank MD after getting so indigenous "eye in the sky" Netra country in the world after Israel to mean it is lacking in any way. All plement the larger and more capa- (Airborne Early Warning and Con- develop an AEWC system with a over the world, countries have elec- ble EL/W-2090 Phalcom AWACS Singapore- much honour?" She noted that law forbids keeping persons aged over trol System) its developer says an 360 degree sweep. The present tronic scanners with limited cov- the IAF has acquired from Israel. 60 as bank MD. She also said ‘one advanced version with a 360 de- system, mounted on a Brazilian erage, except Israel," Christopher Two more Embraers are being editor’ had lobbied for him. "He gree sweep -- against the present Embraer-145 jet, can only scan said. "We can fight a war with the equipped with AEWC systems. Sri Lanka free was 70 years old but was not will- 240 degrees -- is on the cards. scans the area on both sides of the AEWC system with 240 degrees One will be handed over to the IAF ing to leave the MD's post. He lob- "The next system will be up- aircraft but not those in front or at coverage. If it is moving along the by June. The DRDO will initially bied for this along with an editor," graded, with more range and 360 the back. This achievement made border it can scan both sides. It is keep the other one for making fur- the prime minister said. degree coverage," DRDO Chair- India only the fourth country to only at sea that 360 degrees scan- ther improvements, and it will even- trade deal can (BDNEWS24) man S. Christopher told IANS on develop its own AEWC system. ning is required," he said. The tually be handed over to the IAF. the sidelines of the Aero India "The present system scans on DRDO chief said that the next ver- (ECONOMICTIMES) wrap up in 2017

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek- trusts. Imran also contended that PM. The trust deeds, resulting before the court reflecting any the Qatari prince’s first letter was i-Insaf chief Imran Khan submit- Sheikh Hamad had also recently from a settlement that did not and banking transaction by the Qatari entirely hearsay and urged the ted a 24-page affidavit, describing been accused of falsely imprison- could not have taken place, are fake prince regarding the four flats. court to reject it because after the the ‘murky past’ of the Qatari ing a former colleague, the former or otherwise … with no effect on He stated that Sharif family sale of the Dubai Steel Mills in Prince, Sheikh Hamad bin Jasim, spokesperson of Qatar between the actual or beneficial ownership purchased flats “through money 1980, the Sharif family could not who came to the rescue of the October 2009 and January 2011. of the flats,” he stated. laundering” and the PM’s daugh- have had cash for investment in Sharif family in establishing the He was kept in a private confine- Imran contended that till date, ter Maryam was and is the benefi- the real estate business of the Qa- money trail of London flats in the ment where he was tortured. no material had been submitted cial owner. Imran submitted that tari family. (TRIBUNE) Panamagate case in the Supreme “It is this person, who has Court. As the case enters its final emerged out of the deep murkiness round next week, the PTI affidavit of his own past to try and lend a rebutted the Sharif family’s claims tainted helping hand to respondent and explanations put forward by No1 (Prime Minister Nawaz their counsels. The affidavit car- Sharif) and his offspring,” the affi- ries the Qatari prince’s antecedents davit stated. and details incidents of his person- The PTI chief requested the al misconduct. apex court to ignore both letters According to the PTI chief, allegedly sent by the Qatari prince exchanging huge amounts of mon- because they were “unbelievable ey as gifts within the Sharif family and (amounted to) a puerile at- – Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s tempt by the rich Qatari to come SINGAPORE: The Sri Lanka-Sin- the agreement to start talks was son bestowing upon his father and to the aid of a rich Pakistani and gapore Free Trade Agreement (SLS- signed that Sri Lanka offers good sister was just a mechanism to his children”. FTA) will hopefully be complet- potential for Singapore companies whiten undisclosed ‘black money’ Imran stated that there was ed this year, Prime Minister Lee looking to tap opportunities in new owned by the PM himself. “no investment in Qatar and since, Hsien Loong said in a Facebook markets. He added that several According to Imran’s affidavit, there was no investment, and there post on Saturday (Feb 18). companies here had already ex- Sheikh Hamad had illegally trans- can thus be no investment with the Mr Lee expressed his hopes pressed their interest in areas such ferred public funds to private ac- Al Thani family”. in a post stating he had dinner with as urban planning, infrastructure counts and the Qatari government Imran warns of street protest Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wick- planning and development in the had opened an inquiry in this re- in Karachi remesinghe and his wife on Friday tourism sector and also in certain gard. In court, not in the street: “There was no settlement as night. The latter had stopped over aspects of manufacturing. Bilater- Imran asked to share evidence PM Nawaz is categorical in stat- in Singapore on the way home al trade between the two countries In 2002, criminal investigations ing that the flats were purchased from an official visit in Australia, was S$2.05 billion in 2015, accord- into the conduct of the Qatari not acquired through any settle- he added. "He invited me to visit ing to MTI, with local exports to- Prince was nearing an end and the ment based on fictitious hearsay Sri Lanka - hopefully to sign the talling S$1.9 billion that year, while Sheikh had voluntarily paid £6 statement. However no banking FTA!" Mr Lee wrote. Minister Singapore's imports totalled S$146 million to cover the cost of a probe transaction was placed on record for Trade and Industry (Industry) million. into the affairs of his three Jersey either by Sheikh Hamad or the S Iswaran had said last July when (CHANNELNEWSASIA) SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Barrow to be Thousands officially sworn march in as Gambia's president against The Gambia's new president, Duterte's Adama Barrow, is due to be of- German Chancellor Angela Mer- ficially sworn in on the coun- kel has said Islam is not the source try's independence day. of "terrorism" and that cooperat- war on President Barrow recently ing with predominantly Muslim returned home from Senegal states in the fight against it is vital. where he was sworn in last , who has been critical of US drugs month after longtime ruler Yahya President Donald Trump's at- Jammeh refused to step down tempt to impose a temporary trav- Thousands of Catholics have gath- from power despite losing the el ban on people from seven Mus- ered in the Philippine capital in a presidential election. lim-majority countries, was speak- "show of force" to protest extra- On Saturday, Barrow will ing on Saturday at the Munich Se- judicial killings being carried out take oath as the west African curity Conference, with US Vice under the banner of President Ro- country marks 52 years since it President Mike Pence in the audi- drigo Duterte's war on drugs. got its independence from Brit- ence. Merkel said Europe's ties The rally, dubbed the "Walk ain. Several heads of state were with Russia remained challenging, for Life", was attended by 20,000 scheduled to attend the ceremo- but it was important to work with people, organisers said. Manila ny. Jammeh, who came to pow- Russia in the fight against the Is- police estimated the crowd at er through a military a coup in lamic State of Iraq and the Levant 10,000. At the biggest rally yet 1994, went into exile in the Equa- and similar groups. US to NATO: against the killings, members of torial Guinea after the regional Pay more or we will reduce sup- one of the nation's oldest and most body ECOWAS sent in troops port She stressed the need to pre- powerful institutions prayed and to force him out of office. serve and strengthen multilateral sang hymns as they marched be- Al Jazeera's Nicolas Haque, structures such as the EU, NATO fore dawn on Saturday, to condemn and the UN during an address that a "spreading culture of violence". reporting from Banjul, said thou- are in many places not efficient me to be here today to convey a cussing the future of NATO as likely this conference will arrive at sands of people have come to came as concern grew about the Philippines: Rodrigo Duterte Trump administration's approach enough. "I am firmly convinced that message, a reassurance - the US well as the future of the West," a meaningful policy which will deal vows daily executions the main stadium in the city to it is worth fighting for our com- strongly supports NATO and we Kane said. "With all these leaders with these groups? That's a much attend the ceremony. to international affairs and fears More than 7,000 people have that it may have little interest in mon international multilateral will be unwavering in our commit- speaking, it shows how important more difficult question to answer." died since Duterte took office al- "It is a very important day structures, but we must improve ment to this transatlantic alliance," the conference has become in re- Pence is also scheduled to sit for all those who have voted for working in multilateral forums. most eight months ago and ordered Trump's criticism of NATO as them in many places." Pence reas- Pence said. "Let no one doubt our cent time. "The fact that Merkel down with the leaders of the Bal- an unprecedented crime war that Barrow. People have been wait- sures watchful allies Pence, commitment." Al Jazeera's Domin- spoke about ISIL and Boko Haram tic States of Estonia, Latvia and ing inside the stadium for a long "obsolete", his praise for Britain's has drawn global criticism for al- decision to leave the EU as well as though, in his first overseas trip ic Kane, reporting from the con- and the need to consign these peo- Lithuania and Ukrainian President leged human rights abuses. time," he said. "The atmosphere since being named vice president, ference, said many people had ple to history shows leaders here Petro Poroshenko - all countries is absolutely electric. Barow's his softer approach towards Rus- The move, however, has been sia have unnerved allies. said Trump would stand by NATO wanted to hear Pence speak as are in earnest about how they deal dealing with the threat of Russian popular with many in the mainly main challenge now is to bring in and no one should doubt his com- speculation grew about Trump's with the problem. incursion - along with Turkey's reforms into the security servic- "Acting together strengthens Catholic nation. everyone," said Merkel. "We must mitment after the sacrifices made approach to foreign policy. "The question is though what prime minister, Binali Yildirim. "We have to stand up. Some- es. The security services were to defend it. "The president asked "Delegates here will be dis- policy will emerge from this. Is it (Al Jazeera) very loyal to Jammeh." Barrow see that the multilateral structures how this is already a show of force has pledged to reverse many of by the faithful that they don't like Jammeh's actions and has com- these extrajudicial killings," Manila mitted to stay in the Internation- bishop Broderick Pabillo told AFP al Criminal Court and rejoin the news agency before addressing the Commonwealth. He also has 10-year-old child crowd. "I am alarmed and angry at vowed to free political prison- what's happening because this is ers. Barrow, who will be the something that is regressive. It country's third president, an- does not show our humanity." nounced last month plans to re- killed in The demonstrators also con- name the National Intelligence demned legislation restoring the Agency (NIA), a dreaded secret death penalty for drug-related police accused by rights groups crimes and other offences. of forced disappearances and southeast Duterte, 71, has attacked the torture under the control of Jam- Church as being "full of sh*t" and meh. (Al Jazeera) "the most hypocritical institution" for speaking out against a cam- Turkey car bomb paign that he says would save gen- erations of Filipinos from the drug North Korean The office of the UN special en- government, whom Russia backs. finding the next phase - brokering menace. About 80 percent of the voy to Syria has declined to con- All eyes have been on the US an end to the fighting - a tougher 100 million Filipinos are Catholic. arrested over firm whether a political transition and its approach to ending the vi- proposition. The Church helped lead the will be discussed at the forthcom- olence in Syria, given promises by Russia's peace drive started revolution that toppled dictator Kim Jong-nam's ing talks in Geneva. Trump to build closer ties to Rus- hopefully, with the first Astana Ferdinand Marcos in 1986 and a The development means Syri- sia. Speaking alongside Gabriel, meeting in January. 2001 uprising against then-presi- killing an President Bashar al-Assad's fu- Jean-Marc Ayrault, France's for- The Syrian rebels and govern- dent Joseph Estrada that saw him ture will be off the agenda and the eign minister, said the Geneva talks ment came together for the first ousted over corruption charges. Malaysian police have arrested main focus of the talks among var- would ultimately fail if Russia did time in nine months, and agreement The Church had initially de- a fourth suspect believed to be ious Syrian factions will be gover- not use its influence on the Syrian was reached to consolidate a shaky clined to voice opposition public- linked to the death of Kim Jong- nance, a new constitution and elec- government and Iran to stop label- ceasefire. ly to Duterte's drug war but, as nam, half-brother of North Ko- tions. ling all those opposed to Assad as But for the second round this the death toll of mostly-poor rean leader Kim Jong-un. Staffan de Mistura, the envoy, "terrorists". Parallel peace talks week, the Syrian rebels debated mounted, it started late last year According to a statement by is due to convene the new round in On Thursday, Sergey Lavrov, until the eleventh hour about to call for the killings to end. Malaysian police on Saturday, the Swiss city on February 23, al- Russian foreign minister, said the whether to attend at all, finally "It is obvious that there is a the suspect was arrested a day most nine months after peace ne- US supported Russian-sponsored sending a smaller delegation which spreading culture of violence. It is earlier in Selangor state and was gotiations collapsed. parallel peace talks on Syria in the arrived in Astana a day late. saddening to see, sometimes it identified as 47-year-old Ri A spokesman for de Mistura capital of Kazakhstan, Astana. Bashar Jaafari, the Syrian gov- drives me to tears how violent Jong-chol from North Korea. said he was still finalising who Those talks ended with no joint ernment negotiator, said on Thurs- words seem so natural and ordi- On Wednesday, a 28-year- would come to the meeting, but communique, usually the mini- day that peace talks in Astana had nary," said Manila Cardinal Luis old woman named Doan Thi there were already positive re- mum outcome of any diplomatic not produced a communique be- Tagle, the country's highest-rank- Huong and carrying Vietnamese sponses to invitations that had negotiation, and saw opposing cause of the "irresponsible" late ing Church official. travel documents was arrested gone out. Syrian groups trading angry accu- arrival of rebel participants and Dawn, which is supposed to at Kuala Lumpur International Countries opposed to Assad, sations. Russia proposed a series their Turkish backers which de- be the hour of a new start, is be- Airport, the scene of Monday's including the US, back efforts by of parallel intra-Syrian negotiations layed the joint session by a day. coming an hour of tears and fears poisoning. Two others were the UN to broker a political solu- in coordination with Turkey and He also criticised the rebels Archbishop Socrates Villegas, also detained in relation to the tion to the conflict, Sigmar Gabri- Iran last year in Astana to rein- and Turkey for downgrading their A car bomb on Friday rocked the fight against terror will continue," President of the bishops' confer- incident: A 25-year-old Indone- el, Germany's foreign minister, force a shaky ceasefire. delegations from the previous ence "If the response to violence sian woman called Siti Aishah, southeastern Turkish province of he said. said on Friday. It has tried to expand the scope meeting. Sanliurfa, close to the Syrian bor- No group immediately claimed is also violence, then we are only and a man who was accompa- "It is clear that all who met to cover political aspects, a move "Turkey cannot ignite the fire doubling down on violence." nying her, reportedly a Malay- der, killing a child and wounding the attack, and Bozdag did not say want a political solution ... and that that has been criticised by West- and at the same time act as a fire- 17 people, the provincial gover- which organisation the government The Catholic Bishops' Confer- sian national. Police are also this political solution must be ern and Arab states, who argue that fighter," he said after the talks. ence of the Philippines had called searching for other suspects in- nor's office said. suspected. achieved in Geneva under the aus- UN efforts are the only credible The rebels, in turn, accused the "Eighteen of our citizens have Turkey was hit by a series of on the faithful to gather before cluding four men, who are be- pices of the United Nations and track for a political solution. Syrian government and Iran of rou- dawn at the Quirino Grandstand, lieved to be involved in the case. been taken to hospital, among them attacks in 2016 blamed on Kurdi- that there cannot be any parallel With its show of military tinely violating the ceasefire and a 10-year-old child who lost their sh militants and ISIS militants, kill- in the same venue where Duterte Kim Jong-nam was on his way negotiations," Gabriel said after a force, Russia changed the tide of Russia of failing to enforce it. held a huge pre-election rally in to the Chinese territory of life," the office said, adding that ing hundreds of people. The coun- meeting in Bonn that included the the Syrian civil war. However, it is (Al Jazeera) one of the injured was in a serious try was also shaken by a failed 2016. Macau, where he had been re- US, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, France "Why dawn? It's because it is portedly residing under China's condition. The explosion -- which military coup last July. and the UK. took place near a building where This year also had a bloody during these hours that we find protection. The 46-year-old The countries were meeting for bodies on the streets or near trash was targeted in the shopping prosecutors are housed -- struck start, with a New Year's attack on the first time since Donald Trump the district of Viransehir, the of- an elite Istanbul nightclub that left cans. Dawn, which is supposed to plaza at the airport and had not took office as US president in a be the hour of a new start, is be- yet gone through passport con- fice added. Earlier the official Ana- 39 people dead, most of them for- bid to find common ground in ad- dolu news agency had cited gover- eigners. The attack was claimed by coming an hour of tears and fears," trol, a senior government offi- vance of the Geneva meeting. Archbishop Socrates Villegas, pres- cial said. (Al Jazeera) nor Gungor Azim Tuna as saying ISIS. Last month the Kurdistan Gabriel said Rex Tillerson, the the dead child was a three-year- Freedom Falcons (TAK), a splin- ident of the bishops' conference, new US secretary of state, played told the crowd. old boy. The governor said the "ter- ter group of the outlawed Kurdis- an active role in the discussions ror attack" was caused by a parked tan Workers' Party (PKK), claimed Among those who attended Odebrecht about how to end the war in Syria, Saturday's event was Senator Lei- vehicle that was loaded with ex- responsibility for an attack that left which took place on the sidelines plosives and detonated using a re- two dead in the Aegean city of la de Lima, a former human rights case: of a meeting in Bonn, Germany, of commissioner who is one of Du- mote control, the agency report- Izmir. G20 foreign ministers. ed. The lodgings were badly dam- The PKK has been waging an terte's most vocal opponents. Thousands Tillerson, trying to reassure The government on Friday aged, the governor added, while insurgency against the Turkish allies that the US was not tilting Dogan news agency said other state since 1984 during which over filed charges against her for alleg- protest in towards Russia over the Syrian edly running a drug trafficking ring buildings and several cars in the 40,000 people have been killed. It conflict, told them that the US- area were also damaged. is proscribed as a terror organiza- inside the country's largest prison Panama City backed UN efforts to broker a po- when she was justice secretary in Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag tion by Ankara, the United States litical solution to the war, officials said on Twitter that no terrorist and the European Union. the previous administration. De Thousands of people have tak- and diplomats said. Lima, who has denied the charges, en to the streets in Panama in organisation or attack would weak- The Turkish government says He also said military ties with en Turkey's fight against terror. the TAK is merely a front for the said she attended the event as a protest over a political scandal Russia depended on its stance to- show of solidarity. (Al Jazeera) involving huge bribes paid by a "Our determined and effective better-known PKK. (AP) wards rebels fighting the Assad Brazilian company in exchange for public contracts. Odebrecht has admitted it paid $788m in bribes to win construction con- tracts in 12 countries. It has agreed with the US justice de- partment to pay a world record $3.5bn fine. "No more govern- The husband of Spain's Princess acknowledgement of her inno- former Olympic handball player, impression among Spaniards that it emerged that King Juan Carlos lipe removed his older sisters, Ele- ments of thieves and the cor- Cristina has been sentenced to more cence" but that she was still con- had used his royal connections to the royal family was out of touch had gone on an elephant hunting na and Cristina, from royal duties rupt," read some placards as the than six years in prison on charges vinced that her husband was not win public contracts to put on with ordinary people just as Spain expedition in Africa at the height as part of efforts to modernise the crowd moved through the cen- including fraud and tax evasion, guilty. events through his non-profit or- was suffering its worst recession of the financial crisis. He abdicat- monarchy. The following year he tre of the capital Panama City while the royal wife has been ac- "If we believed in the judicial ganisation, the Noos Foundation, of modern times. Public support ed in 2014 in favour of his son. stripped Cristina of her title of to the Congress building on Fri- quitted. A panel of judges ruled on system when the princess was then overcharged for the events and for the family eroded further when When he ascended the throne, Fe- Duchess of Palma. (Al Jazeera) day. "The goal of the march is Friday that Cristina, the sister of made to sit in the dock, I think hidden millions of dollars in pro- to demand that all those cor- King Felipe VI, was not guilty, but citizens can trust in it when she's ceeds abroad, according to prose- rupt in all the parties and busi- she would be required to pay more absolved," Roca said in Barcelona. cutors. Some of the foundation's nessmen are investigated, so than $280,000 in fines because the A spokesperson for the Royal money was transferred to a pri- they return the money and go court considered that she indirect- House told Spanish media that the vate company and used to pay for to jail," Saul Mendez, a leader ly benefited from her husband In- royal family respected the court's family holidays, home furnishings of the Suntracs construction aki Urdangarin's fraud. decision. and theatre tickets, prosecutors union that was among the pro- He was fined $545,000. There were no immediate com- said. Closely followed test organisers, told AFP news The couple were not called to ments from Felipe and Queen Let- The trial, and the long investi- agency. The scandal surround- court for the ruling. Both have lived izia, who received news of the rul- gation that preceded it, had been ing Odebrecht, which US au- in Switzerland with their four chil- ing during a visit to a museum in closely followed in a country in- thorities say paid $59m in dren since 2013, and have always Madrid with the Hungarian presi- ured to high-level political and bribes in Panama between 2010 denied any wrongdoing. dent. The case can be appealed to banking corruption cases, and and 2014, was just "the tip of Miquel Roca, a lawyer with the Supreme Court, but it was not where inequality has grown in the the iceberg", he said. (BBC) Cristina's defence team, said that clear whether Urdangarin would wake of the 2008 financial crisis. the princess was "satisfied for the choose to do so. Urdangarin, a The inquiry heightened the SUNDAY. FEBRUARY 19, 2017 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 Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 By Afrasiab Khattak ically coordinating with Al Qaeda bad” Taliban and the non-implemen- fighting of Taliban is creating swaths and other international terror net- tation of the National Action Plan of territory uncontrolled by the Af- E-mail: [email protected] works. That’s why they have been (NAP) but there is no visible change ghan state. But what is not men- Pakistan has faced numerous terror- reinforcing one another by division ist attacks in the past but the cur- in government policy. The Supreme tioned in these media reports is the of work. For example, the TTP hold Court’s Quetta Inquiry Commission fact that most of the fighters under Email: [email protected] rent wave of terrorism has turned areas in FATA that were to be used this week to be the bloodiest in the Report issued in December last year its black flag are Pakistani citizens. by the Afghan Taliban for their ac- was full of scathing criticism of gov- So the ideology, cadres and resourc- country’s history so far. The last tivities across the Durand Line. A www.afghanistantimes.af five days have seen ten attacks tar- ernment’s failure in tackling terror- es flow from Pakistan to the state- good number of TTP cadres have ism. Instead of taking corrective less territory in Afghanistan. This Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi geting all the four provinces. been fighting alongside Afghan Tal- Bloodbath at Sehwan, Sindh, on measures the government deemed process of expansion of the so-called iban in Afghanistan. It is true that it fit to totally brush aside the re- IS is not dissimilar to the growth of Thursday peaked the series of at- some elements in TTP have been Advisory editorial board tacks when a suicide bomber hit the port. Proscribed organisations are Al Qaeda in the 1990s. It will defi- regularly used by hostile foreign in- publicly carrying out their activi- nitely attract international inter- Sufi shrine of Laal Shahbaz Qalan- telligence agencies against Pakistan Saduddin Shpoon, Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, dar during rituals performed by the ties under new names. Holy war or vention if it is not checked by local from their bases inside Afghanistan, Jihad in Islam is a state institution players soon. The second significant devotees. The terrorist wave start- but the Afghan Taliban have always Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir ed with an attack on a DSNG van of but private Jihad hasn’t been crimi- aspect of the current wave of ter- refrained from acting against TTP nalised so far. Under these circum- rorism is its negative fallout on Pak- Samma TV in Karachi on Sunday as an entity. One wonders why Pa- Graphic-Designer: killing a media worker. It was fol- stances the atmosphere remains Afghan relations. Efforts have been kistani authorities aren’t giving the conducive for spreading extremist underway for restarting the politi- lowed by a suicide attack in Lahore lists of TTP fugitives to Afghan Edriss Akbari, Bilal Yusufi the next day that left 13 people militancy, with or without foreign cal engagement between Pakistan Taliban who have significant pres- support. There are two critical as- and Afghanistan for arresting ten- dead. On the same day a Bomb Dis- ence in the areas where these mis- Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: posal Squad commander and a po- pects of the current wave of terror- sions in their relations before the so creants are based. Pakistani media ism in Pakistan that find no men- called summer offensive of the Tal- Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0708954626, 0778894038 liceman were killed in Quetta while gives wide coverage to Taliban “vic- they were defusing a bomb planted tion in our media or official analy- iban. Terrorists aim at derailing any tories” in Afghanistan but never rais- sis. First is the expansion of the so possible political engagement be- Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan by terrorists. Two security person- es questions about nexus of Taliban nel were killed as their vehicle hit a called IS in the region at a time when tween the two countries. PM Nawaz Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 on both sides of the Durand Line. A it’s losing ground in the Middle East. Sharif must move swiftly to muster land mine in South Waziristan. On number of Pakistani political lead- Wednesday four suicide bombers Media reports appear from time to collective wisdom and energy for Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press ers and analysts have been criticis- time about the presence of the so effectively meeting the current na- blew themselves up in Peshawar, ing the official policy of “good and Momand Agency and Charssada. called IS in eastern Afghanistan. The tional security challenge. Their target was security forces and judicial officers. Three soldiers were The constitution says killed in Awaran district of Republicans move to expand drug Balochistan on Thursday followed by an attack on police in Dera Is- Article 86: mail Khan. TTP claimed responsi- testing for unemployment benefits Article Eighty-Six: Elections credentials of members of the National Assembly shall be bility for some of the aforemen- tioned attacks. The so-called Islamic By Mike Ludwig are positive. In 2012, Congress Carthy said that many employers reviewed by the Independent Elections Commission in accordance with the provisions State (IS) accepted its role in plan- passed a law with a bipartisan com- require drug testing for new employ- of the law. ning and carrying out suicide attack House Republicans gave Gov. Scott promise: States could only drug test ees, so testing for unemployment in Sehwan. Choice of time and plac- Walker of Wisconsin and other Re- workers receiving unemployment benefits provides an incentive to stay es for terrorist attacks during the publican governors a gift on benefits if the workers were let go clean and find a job. Governor Walk- current wave reveals a sophisticat- Wednesday: They voted to repeal a due to unlawful drug use, or if the er goes even further, suggesting that ed and coordinated plan behind the Labor Department rule that limited Labor Department determined that his state may require rehab for work- terror campaign. In a knee jerk re- which workers state governments their line of work would require them ers who fail the state-mandated test. action Pakistan closed its border can drug test before handing out un- to be drug tested in order to get a "If someone fails the test, we help with Afghanistan late Thursday employment benefits. The vote tally new job. Last year, the department them with rehabilitation, so they can evening giving little thought to the was 236-189, and largely fell along finalized a rule limiting this class of get healthy and ready to enter the fact that such an arbitrary closing party lines. workers to those who are already workforce," Governor Walker said. of borders violates the Afghan-Pa- Nearly 50 labor and civil rights required to be tested by state or fed- However, most people who use drugs kistan Transit Trade Agreement. It groups signed a letter arguing that eral law, such as firefighters, pilots are not addicted to them, and do is also important to note that clos- the repeal legislation would allow and workers who carry firearms. not need or wish to undergo medical ing six or eight crossing points at a states like Wisconsin to waste tax- That ruling was too narrow for Gov- treatment. Marijuana is the most border with hundreds of other un- payers dollars on drug testing already ernor Walker and three other Re- popular illicit drug in the country, frequented routes wouldn’t have any performed by employers and pun- publican governors. Labor and civil but only about 9 percent of users practical impact on the cross bor- ish working families that are trying rights advocates fear that, if per- are dependent on the drug. Unfor- Pakistan is bitten by its der movement of terrorists. Apart to get back on their feet. Funding mitted to do so, these governors tunately for cannabis users on un- from this senior Afghan diplomat for unemployment insurance gen- would mandate the testing of ev- employment in Wisconsin, marijua- was summoned to GHQ for receiv- erally comes out of workers' pay- eryone receiving unemployment na can linger in the body longer than ing a list of 76 terrorists hiding in checks, so labor advocates argue the benefits in their states, even though most other drugs, making it easier Afghanistan who are involved in benefit is a right, not a privilege most states already deny benefits to to detect on a drug test. It's well complicity snakes earned by testing clean. "The reali- workers who have received a drug- known that poor people and people subversive activities in Pakistan. By initiating these significant foreign ty is that people who receive public related discharge. Republicans con- of color have suffered dispropor- hings are getting from bad to worse between the two neighbors— policy moves without even the fig assistance are no more likely to use trol the legislatures and the gover- tionately in the war on drugs, and leaf of some high level meeting, the illicit drugs than the general popu- nor's office in 25 states, so Gover- targeting recipients of public bene- Afghanistan and Pakistan after cycles of violence took place in Paki GHQ has left no doubt about the lation, and these kinds of drug test- nor Walker's model could easily fits for state-mandated drug testing stan. Islamabad without thinking at least once, turned blame finger fact that it is in the driving seat. But ing programs are a big waste of tax spread. To repeal the rule on and rehab would only continue this what is new about closing the bor- dollars for states to run and defend Wednesday, the House used the Con- trend. Wealthy people who use drugs toward Kabul, while ignoring its support to the militant outfits in their soil ders or handing over the list of fugi- in court," said Grant Smith, deputy gressional Review Act, a dusty 1990s- can choose if, when and where they for longtime. There is no safe hideout of militants in Afghanistan, and it’s tives to the Afghan government? director of national affairs with the era law that Republicans have been receive treatment for addiction or This has happened in the past with- Drug Policy Alliance, in a statement. using to roll back Obama-era regu- other problems, while low-income proved. It is a huge believes that the series of terrorist attacks in Pakistan out any result. Afghans have also Along with the governors of Texas, lations with lightning speed. Presi- people may have few options be- carried out by its complicity snakes—who have been enjoyed impunity from been handing over longer lists of Mississippi and Utah, Governor dent Trump has said he would sign sides public facilities that often Taliban based in Pakistan. In fact Walker applauded the legislation and the bill if it passes the Senate, where mimic prison. A casual marijuana their several crimes through receiving shelters, weapons and foods. To be the issue became a source of real said in a statement that it would help Republicans hold a slimmer majori- user may refrain in order to receive more clear the informal soldiers of Pakistan carried out these attacks. The embarrassment when sometime back his state move forward with plans ty than in the House. The move public benefits, but a worker with an Mr. Sartaj Aziz formally confirmed to expand drug testing for those on disappointed reformers, particular- opioid abuse disorder, perhaps stem- country for long has been considering militants as its strategy-depth, and the presence of Afghan Taliban lead- public assistance. Civil rights and ly since some Republicans have ming from painkillers prescribed le- ership in Pakistan for many years. labor groups warn that "suspiscion- embraced more sensible policies in gally after a workplace accident, there is no guarantee on militant behaviors; after all their insurgents. Even a press report on Thursday less" drug testing for public assis- recent years, such as reducing man- does not have this option. Still, ad- Afghanistan believes in peace and the people wonder to live without sense quoted the Foreign Secretary Mr. tance is a waste of money and vio- datory minimum sentencing for drug vocates note, that worker should Aizaz Chaudhry saying that Taliban lates Fourth Amendment protec- crimes and expanding treatment for have the right to decide with their of fear—the fear that you and your dearest and nearest one will never return entered Pakistan as immigrants on tions against unreasonable search- people with opioid-related disorders. doctor how to handle the condition as they step out of the house. And reciprocally we want other people to live condition they would disavow mili- es, so programs like Governor Walk- "It's disappointing that Republican instead of being coerced by a state tancy. Who entered in the afore- er's would likely face expensive chal- leadership in Congress is choosing government threatening to take without such horrors. The bloods of Afghans are red as others, and their mentioned agreement with Taliban? lenges in court. Drug testing people to focus on drug testing people who away their livelihood. Why? They bones are white, and hundreds of them were killed by Pakistan’s backed I am sure Pakistani Parliament who receive government benefits have lost their jobs rather than help- earned it. Unemployment insurance doesn’t know anything about it. has long been a popular idea among ing them," said Smith, who added is supposed to provide a portion of terrorists. In reaction to several attacks with evidence, Kabul asked Islama- Anyhow, the statement of the For- Republicans. Proponents claim they that it's "shameful" for Congress to a worker's salary during job shortag- bad to shun supporting militancy, but Pakistan closed crossing points. Paki- eign Secretary brings us to the heart are seeking to divert taxpayer dol- demonize drug users after embrac- es so they can find another job while of the problem, to the Taliban lars from the illicit drug trade and ing rhetoric around helping people still supporting themselves and their stani government closed Torkham and Spin Boldak crossings for an indefi- project. The official narrative in compel the workforce to sober up, with opioid and other forms of ad- families. Unemployment programs nite period of time on Friday, after the deadly blast at the shrine in Lal Shah- Pakistan goes into great details to but opponents say their proposals diction. Perhaps anticipating such a are funded by payroll taxes, the cost underline differences between the single out poor people for punish- pushback, Governor Walker and of which are passed down by em- baz Qalandar in Sindh, an attack claimed by the Islamic State (IS), also known Pakistani and Afghan Taliban. But ment. Don't expect the GOP to tack House Republicans are now couch- ployers to their workers in the form as Daesh terrorist group. basically both of them belong the on drug testing requirements for rich ing their position on drug testing in of lower wages, so advocates argue same movement and ideology. They CEOs to corporate tax breaks any- terms of "helping" workers -- a that workers have earned the bene- Instead of closing Torkham and banning public crossings in reaction to take oath of allegiance to the same time soon. Plus, mandatory drug test- strange position for Walker, who fit, whether they use drugs or not. Lahore and Sindh attacks, the security establishment of Pakistan should close leader (to the Amir of the Afghan ing policies unfairly impact people has promoted extreme austerity With mandatory drug testing and Taliban). Both have been systemat- of color, who are more likely to be policies -- and treating addiction. rehab hanging over their heads, some down the Haqqani terrorist camps in Quetta and Peshawar Shuras offices of criminalized for drug use when tests House Majority Leader Kevin Mc- people who are already struggling. the Taliban insurgents. It is a mark of shame for Pakistan to create obstacles for the public. There is a big difference between fighting insurgents in the country and to use a country’s soil for carrying insurgency. In Afghanistan we are fight- ing insurgents, while in Pakistan they (militants) are using the country’s passports, airports, hospitals and the army toilets. The National Unity Gov- ernment strongly rejected Pakistan’s accusations that the recent attack in Pakistan was masterminded from Afghanistan soil. Afghanistan proved its honesty in global war on terrorisms, and now it’s for Pakistan to destroy terrorist sanctuaries on its own soil. Freshly, a report published by The Wall Street Journal showing that Paki- stan is running out of friend in Washington. Recent publications by influen- tial US experts, Congressional testimony by officials and signs out of the Trump administration all point in the same direction: The US will step up pressure on Islamabad to crack down on terrorist groups that target US troops in Afghanistan and destabilize Afghanistan and India. The double game of Pakistan unmasked when insurgent leaders were killed in its soil. According to US experts, in the decade and half since 9/11, a generation of US military and intelligence professionals has witnessed the Pakistani army’s support for terrorist groups such as the Haqqani net- work, the Taliban, and Lashkar-e-Taiba. There is a proverb as saying, “Treachery will eventually betray itself; though wary enough at first.” Now it is a suitable time for Pakistan to stop being hypocrite, and stand honestly in global war on terror. 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. SUNDAY. FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES The Baltic states: No easy target By Agnia Grigas and Azerbaijan, the Baltic states benefit from a completely different On February 16, Lithuania celebrat- geopolitical standing. As EU and ed the 99th anniversary of its res- NATO member states since 2004, toration of independence in 1918, they are firmly integrated into west- Trump and Netanyahu are trying to push a more blatant and legalised which was cut short by subsequent ern institutions. Most importantly, Soviet annexation after World War as NATO members, they benefit II. from the collective defence clause form of apartheid on the Palestinian people. However, since Russia's occupa- of Article V of its charter, which tion of Crimea in 2014 and its shad- means that an attack against one By Daoud Kuttab and legalised form of apartheid in 2002 Arab peace plan is very clear ing up on the two-state solution. neutral, and parties in the conflict ow war in eastern Ukraine, policy- NATO member is considered to be which the Palestinian majority in that Arabs will only meet and nor- If Trump and Netanyahu's recognise and involve with each makers and pundits have been ask- an attack against all NATO mem- Thanks to the lovefest between the occupied territories is stripped malise relations with Israel once meetings are expected to produce other. If what we saw in the White ing whether the three Baltic states ber states. Despite their firm inte- off their political rights while Jew- Israel agrees to withdraw to the a political breakthrough, they House press conference is an indi- of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are gration into the West, the threat Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin from Russia remains potent. In fact, Netanyahu and US President ish settlers enjoy full political and 1967 borders. The Quartet - with should bear one basic principle in cation, this prerequisite doesn't again at risk in face of Moscow's rising ambitions. The three Euro- in recent years Moscow has kept Donald Trump, ignoring the Pal- national rights. the exception of US - would also mind: The art of a deal requires exist in the current US administra- continuously intimidating the Bal- After the 1967 occupation, Is- reject Trump's casual idea of giv- that the dealmaker is honest and tion. (Aljazeera) pean Union and NATO members estinian national leadership seems share a border and a difficult history tic states by violating their airspace, to be back on the front burner. rael tried and failed to bypass the launching snap military exercises PLO by turning a blind eye to Is- with Russia, and conflict in any of During both leaders' first meet- these states could lead to a direct near their borders, and even kidnap- ing since the new United States lamic charities established by confrontation between Russia and ping an Estonian security official. administration took office, Trump Sheikh Ahmad Yassin, and as a re- the West. As a result, both the Bal- Moscow has declared their indepen- repeatedly talked about the need sult Hamas was born in Gaza. A tic states and their western allies dence from the Soviet Union illegal for the Israelis and Palestinians to similar attempt to undermine the have been trying to mitigate any and even sought to persecute thou- make peace but avoided mention- Palestinian leadership took place potential threat and to bolster de- sands of Lithuanians who avoided ing the Palestinian leadership. in the 1980s in rural West Bank fences. The Baltic states have rea- or hid from the Soviet draft follow- Apparently fearing the reper- with the creation of an alternative son to be worried about their large ing Vilnius's declaration of indepen- cussions of Washington's with- to the PLO called the "Village neighbour. They spent almost 50 dence in March 1990. Furthermore, drawal of both support for the Leagues". This Israeli effort to al- years as forcibly annexed states of as I discussed in my earlier work, two-state solution and recognition ter the Palestinian leadership by the Soviet Union - although most there is an ever-present risk that of the legitimate Palestinian lead- appointing Palestinian collabora- western democracies did not ac- Russia will try to use the Russian tors also failed miserably. knowledge the Soviet occupation - speakers and other minorities with- ership, the US sent CIA chief in the Baltic States for its own terri- Mike Pompeo to President Mah- The last time the US tried to after having been conquered earlier by the Russian empire. Their inde- torial ambitions. In all three coun- moud Abbas in Ramallah on Tues- bypass the Palestinians, it back- tries, especially in Estonia and fired spectacularly. Former US pendence was recognised in 1991, day, February 14. By sending the but Russia has nonetheless tried to Latvia, there are sizable concentrat- CIA chief rather than a political President George HW Bush - ed ethnic Russian populations liv- working with Secretary of State use its dominance in the energy sec- figure to visit President Abbas, the tor to have economic influence over ing close to the borders of the Rus- US is prioritising security issues - James Baker - pushed non-PLO them, has sought to meddle in their sian Federation. Estonia, Latvia, and including joint security coopera- Palestinian leaders to represent domestic politics and has tried to Lithuania will not be easy targets tion with Israelis - over the need their people within a joint Jorda- stoke discord among their Russian for Russia but it does not mean that to recognise Palestinian political nian-Palestinian delegation during ethnic minorities. Unlike countries their governments and western al- and national aspirations. the 1991 peace conference in in which Russia has played a part in lies will not worry about their de- Trump also casually walked Madrid. In response Israeli and the creation of separatist territo- fence in the years to come. While away from a long-standing US and PLO officials reached a secret deal ries and frozen conflict zones, such Lithuania's Russian population falls international consensus on the in Oslo without the knowledge of Unless four million Palestinians become Zionists overnight, it is unlikely that they will as in Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, just below 6 percent, with some liv- two-state solution, which has been Washington in 1993. accept a Jewish state while agreeing to live without the same rights granted to Jews, ing around the city of Klaipeda near the foundation of Palestinian-Is- 'Permanent apartheid' Russia's Kaliningrad territory, in Netanyahu's conditions to ac- Estonia and Latvia ethnic Russians raeli conflict. represent about 24 percent and 27 The US president's naive com- cept a two-state solution ex- pressed in the Bar Ilan speech in percent of the population respec- ment on the two or one-state solu- In California’s imperial valley, residents aren’t tively. In these two countries many tion - saying he "can live with ei- 2009 have now an added element of the minorities are concentrated ther one" - means Washington is which negates the idea of an inde- near the Russian border - in Ida-Viru likely to prolong the status quo of pendent Palestinian state. waiting for government to track pollution county, in Estonia, and the Latgale occupation. Ever since the 1967 Dropping the commitment to region in Latvia. The Balts are keen- occupation, the United Nations Se- a two-state solution virtually each monitor, which update every organization saw a rise in commu- ly aware of all these risks and, as a curity Council has repeatedly ex- means a permanent presence of 5 minutes, easily report an envi- nity involvement in 2007, three result, they have pursued a number pressed the illegality of the occu- Israeli troops within the entire ronmental issue, and see others' years after news broke that the of measures to strengthen their ter- pation, as in the preamble of Res- Palestinian territory. reports. On Jan. 25, for example, a federal government would spend ritorial defence. First of all, based olution 242 "emphasising inadmis- Unless four million Palestin- user submitted a report from El $750 million to rebuild the San on the perceived Russian threat and sibility of the acquisition of terri- ians become avid Zionists over- Centro: "Pesticide being applied Ysidro border inspection facility. due to increasing calls by US Presi- tory by war" (PDF). night, it is unlikely that they will while farmworkers harvesting." This renovation included new ve- dent Donald Trump for NATO By leaving the solution to the accept and recognise a Jewish state The site admin then responded, hicle inspection procedures that members to meet their commitment parties while, at the same time, while agreeing to live without the "The [Department of Toxic Sub- created longer queues on the high- and spend 2 percent of GDP on de- politically bypassing the Palestin- same political rights granted to stances Control] Imperial CUPA way and more greenhouse gas fence, the Baltic States have been Jews. has forwarded this complaint to emissions from idling vehicles. rapidly increasing their defence bud- ian leadership, the Trump admin- gets. Estonia is already one of the istration is empowering the Israe- Netanyahu and Trump's ap- the Imperial County Ag Commis- Flores said the federal government proach to the issue is pushing the sioner's Office Department of Pes- wouldn't mitigate any of the ad- five NATO member states that lis to dictate to the Palestinians any spends 2 percent on defence, and deal they want. The sheer reality region towards a more blatant and ticide Regulation." Farther west, verse effects from pollution. Thus, San Diego County sits sand- Tallinn plans to spend even more. of the Israeli occupation and the legalised form of apartheid in which Casa Familiar led the community Although Latvia and Lithuania cur- absence of any political solution the Palestinian majority in the oc- wiched between the Imperial Val- in developing bottom-up ap- ley and the Pacific Ocean, and it rently spend 1.7 and 1.8 percent of is a reflection of how Israel's cur- cupied territories is stripped of proaches, like the study, to pro- GDP on defence, both countries rent tactics have not been produc- their political rights while Jewish also suffers from extreme levels of tect themselves. "This study is have pledged to spend at least 2 per- settlers enjoy full political and na- air pollution. The district of San putting the power in the commu- ing any results for decades now. much time her own children spend cent by 2018. To put their efforts The problem is that Trump tional rights. By Paulina Phelps Ysidro, located immediately north nity residents' hands. This is their into a perspective, over the past outside depending on the levels of of the Mexican border, where an and Netanyahu's warm relation- The International Criminal Each day, the drying Salton Sea and data," said Vanessa Galaviz, a staff years Latvia and Lithuania have Court describes this type of "in- pollution, and makes sure they estimated 50,000 vehicles cross toxicologist with the California maintained the world's fastest grow- ship and the former's withdrawal an increasingly busy border take have their medication and inhalers of support for the two-state solu- stitutionalised discrimination" as every day, is at particular risk. Last Office of Environmental Health ing defence budgets. Furthermore, their toll on the air quality of south- with them at all times. Despite year, it devised its own communi- tion further weakens the US' abil- apartheid and sees it as a "crime ern California's parched Imperial Hazard Assessment. She said this the military forces of Estonia, against humanity". Moreover, the taking these steps, she still lives in ty-based air quality project, based is especially important for margin- Latvia and Lithuania have witnessed ity be an honest broker. Valley. Despite averaging only a state of fear. "I expect the worst Hoping that Arab leaders will idea of a "grand deal" that includes on and using the same low-cost alized communities like San notable changes. For example, in three inches of rain a year, this and pray for their health." Even monitors as the Imperial Valley 2015 Lithuania has reintroduced replace Palestinians and agree to Arab countries would similarly fail. swath of desert spanning the Mex- Ysidro. Both Luis Olmedo, of Im- Former US peace envoy for Israe- before Trump took office, govern- project. "The goal is less about perial Valley's CCV, and David conscription and has since enlisted make peace with Israel on behalf ican border from the Colorado Riv- ment response to air pollution in some 3,500 young adults aged 19 to of Palestinians, is another mistak- li-Palestinian negotiations, Martin seeing if communities meet those Flores, of San Ysidro's Casa Fa- er to San Diego County is heavily the region has been lackluster. Luis EPA standards and rather under- 26 to the military annually. Al- en proposal. As the saying goes, Indyk referred to the idea as an dependent on agriculture, and for miliar, were not worried about fed- "outside-in" approach. Olmedo, executive director of CCV, standing where the hot spots are eral disinterest in climate justice. though Latvia has no plans to rein- "been there, tried that". In the past, decades farmers have relied on the said that especially as the reces- troduce conscription and Estonia has Arab leaders as well as Israeli and Indyk's proposal includes the for pollution in the community," Their organizations are communi- Salton Sea to drain their fields. sion came to a head in 2008, envi- said Edmund Seto, an associate pro- never abandoned its mandatory con- US leaders have tried to find an idea of President Trump conven- Today, the valley air hangs with ty-driven and sustained. And scription, both countries have wit- ing the leaders of the four Arab ronmental health concerns took a fessor with the University of Flores is confident in the contin- alternative leadership for Palestin- toxic dust and pollution, and the backseat to economics, and it is nessed a surge in popularity of vol- ians and have failed miserably. countries, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Washington Department of Envi- ued support of the state. "I think untary defence organisations such residents face the highest rate of now clear that environmental pro- ronmental and Occupational For instance, Egypt and Jor- Arabia and the United Arab Emir- hospitalization for asthma of any the state of California will contin- as the Latvian National Guard and ates, along with the Quartet, made tection will not be a government Health Services, who helped de- ue to lead efforts of environment," dan resisted pressures from Israel area in the state. priority. "With this administration the Estonian Defense League. Also, and the international community up of the European Union, the US, velop the air quality monitors. The he said. He hoped the results from Lithuania has been gradually prepar- "I wish I lived in an area where we are back to the [George W.] two-year study, a partnership with on who should represent the Pal- the UN, Russia, to announce "a my kids could play outside any the current study would qualify ing for hybrid warfare scenarios. set of agreed principles that would Bush era, but we are ready and we the California EPA, University of San Ysidro as an impacted com- Since 2014, the Lithuanian govern- estinians in the 1970s, and in 1974 time of day," said Esther Bejara- are prepared, because we have the Arab summit recognised the serve as the terms of reference to Washington, and San Diego com- munity, opening the door for green- ment has issued lengthy manuals no, a mother whose two children been there before," he said. In 2013, munity organization Casa Famil- Palestinian Liberation Organisa- direct Israeli-Palestinian negotia- suffer from asthma. She is an edu- house gas reduction program fund- each year for its citizens, which ex- tion to achieve a two-state solu- the CCV began an effort to put the iar, is funded by a $225,000 grant, ing from the state's cap-and-trade plain what to do in the event of tion (PLO) as the sole legitimate cator for Comite Civico del Valle power of scientific data into the representative of the Palestinian tion". and currently operates 12 moni- proceeds. This would allow the war, hybrid war, or another emer- (CCV), a local organization that hands of community members. tors throughout the San Ysidro gency situation. people. Netanyahu and Trump's Such a summit would certain- supports the health of the area's community to take the next step, ly not produce the results that Through a partnership with the area. Results show that the border from monitoring pollution, to in- These manuals provide advice approach to the issue is pushing disadvantaged residents. She California Environmental Health on how to use simple camping and the region towards a more blatant Netanyahu or Trump wants. The crossing is a notable hot spot. Dav- vesting in sustainable housing and knows the risks, regulates how Tracking Program, University of id Flores, Casa Familiar's commu- scouting equipment. transportation to cut it back. (Aljazeera) Washington, and with funding from nity development director, said his (WP) the National Institutes of Health, the Imperial Valley Air Quality Control project installed 40 air quality monitors throughout the LETTER TO THE EDITOR valley and set up a website to gather This Russian threat pollution information and commu- nity-generated reports. The project's goal is to track particu- late matter -- the hazardous sum cannot go unchallenged of pollution that includes pollen, dust, smoke, and soot -- and in- ussai’s apparetn violation measures. or active defenses, might, over form residents of the presence and of the 1987 Intermediate- Over the past decade, Russia time, coerce the Kremlin to change Pakistani government closed Torkham and Spin Boldak crossings for an indefinite period distribution of possible health Range Nuclear Forces Trea- stealthily developed a ground- tack. But it would be far prefera- risks. "It gives the community a R of time on Friday, following a deadly blast at the shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sindh ty has moved a worrisome step launched cruise missile in appar- ble for Mr. Trump, who has yet to record on what the government is forward. ent violation of the treaty, one of a meet Mr. Putin, to attempt per- province of Pakistan. The closure has been condemned in strongest possible terms by doing and not doing," Olmedo said. A ground-launched cruise missile number of asymmetric weapons suasion first, while being direct politicians and civil society member on both the countries. That information can be used to that the United States has identi- programs developed by Mr. Putin about the consequences of inac- Afrasiab Khattak, a senior member of the Awami National Party (ANP), said that hold agencies accountable and to fied as a treaty violation is being to throw the West off balance. tion. inform local, state, and national deployed by Russia, according to The new missile was first seen According to an account by the closure of crossing points would further increase tension between the two countries. efforts. Olmedo is confident in the Closing crossing points against public is a big crime and not justifiable. Hurting civilian a report in the New York Times. in a flight test in 2008; the Obama Reuters, Mr. Trump denounced Imperial Valley community's con- This threatens to upend an impor- administration told Congress about another U.S.-Russian accord, the would not cure Pakistan’s pain. People who are crossing points are civilians, and mostly tinued support. "We are not de- tant treaty and poses a major chal- it in late 2011, and State Depart- New START (Strategic Arms Re- sick people going for medical treatment. Pakistan itself giving shelters to the militant in its pendent on the federal government, and we never have been," he said. lenge for the United States, espe- ment compliance reports formally duction Treaty), in a Jan. 28 phone soil, and the killing of militant leaders can be taken as a great example. Through this we Residents of Imperial County are cially since years of objections over called it a treaty violation in 2014, call with Mr. Putin, saying it fa- come to the heart of the problem that Pakistan still continues double game. There is no predominantly Hispanic and av- the violation have been stone- 2015 and 2016. vored Russia. In fact, the treaty good and bad terrorist. Kabul and Islamabad should join hands in fight against all form of erage about half the California per walled by President Vladimir Pu- Russia has repeatedly refused has been a model of successful capita income, according to U.S. tin. With a new U.S. administra- to acknowledge a treaty violation. implementation, holds both na- insurgency. tion taking office, it would make A special commission set up in the tions to equal levels and ought to Abdul Muqtadir, Kabul, Afghanistan census data. Due to the placement of highways and fossil fuel refin- sense for President Trump to treaty to resolve disputes met late be extended when it expires in eries, low-income communities of press Russia once more to adhere last year without result. 2021. color throughout the nation are to the treaty, while holding out the Now, Mr. Trump should raise The real worries about strate- possibility of military countermea- the issue directly with Mr. Putin gic nuclear weapons are elsewhere, Letter to editor will be edited for policy, content and clarity. All letters must exposed to toxic pollutants at sig- have the writer’s name and address. You may send your letters to: nificantly higher levels than upper- sures if he does not. and make it clear that the United starting with setting priorities for [email protected] income Whites, and the CCV air The treaty was a centerpiece States will not tolerate behavior the hugely expensive nuclear mod- quality control project sought to of the cooperation between Presi- that undermines the very founda- ernization cycle that the United involve the most affected people dent Ronald Reagan and Soviet tion of arms-control treaties — States has embarked upon. from the outset to address this dis- leader Mikhail Gorbachev at the that they are binding and verifi- There’s also the unratified nu- parity. Imperial Valley residents end of the Cold War, eliminating able. clear Comprehensive Test Ban Disclaimer: worked with researchers to select an entire class of deployed land- Mr. Trump has described Treaty and the toothless and drift- locations to set up the air moni- based missiles in Europe with a himself as a good negotiator and as ing Biological and Toxin Weapons The views and opinions expressed in the articles are tors. The online tool, called Iden- range between 300 and 3,400 miles, a Mr. Fix-it. Certainly, the INF trea- Convention. Plenty of negotiating tifying Violations Affecting Neigh- and their launchers; prohibiting ty needs repair. and fixing up awaits Mr. Trump, those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views or borhoods (IVAN), was launched in flight-testing and production of The military countermeasures and none is getting easier by wait- opinions of the Afghanistan Times. September and allows residents to new missiles in the future; and in- prepared by the Pentagon, such as ing. access air quality information from cluding new, intrusive verification deployment of new U.S. missiles (WSJ) SUNDAY. FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Donald Trump’s presidency ‘likely to be second shortest in history’,: Presidential historian

prediction comes shortly after the By firing a mobile, solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) from an air base near the northwest White House admitted the Presi- frontier with China, Kim maximized the element of surprise to ensure intelligence agencies had none of the dent was told several weeks ago early-warning signals that would attend a fixed-site, liquid-fuel launch. that his National Security Adviser Michael Flynn had not told the truth about a telephone call with a Russian diplomat. Kim locked his crosshairs on The news fuelled broader con- other audiences, too. He effective- cerns about his closeness to Rus- ly demanded that all North Kore- sian President Vladimir Putin and ans forget about their poverty and the role his country may have oppression and stand in awe of the played in helping Mr Trump's elec- extravagant military prowess of tion. Professor Feinman, who their dynastic dictator. Further, he teaches at Florida Atlantic Univer- invited all outside powers to re- sity, suggested the businessman new their bickering about how to turned politician is more generally grapple with Pyongyang’s addic- unsuitable for office. “Many for- tion to unruliness and proliferation. eign policy professionals are shak- Anticipating North Korean ing their head at Trump’s inappro- provocations, President Trump priate behaviour and language ev- had already ordered a national re- ery time he speaks in public, or view of policy options for dealing issues a Twitter comment, and his with Pyongyang, and this latest instability and recklessness”, he launch of a modified IRBM vali- said, citing Mr Trump's decision dated that decision. It also should to hold a security meeting over the not hasten a comprehensive stra- North Korean missile test in a pub- tegic review that includes the ex- lic space in earshot of other peo- perience and insights of Asia ex- Donald Trump’s presidency is 16 months and 5 days of 12th ple as “a sign of his failure to act perts who will be joining the ad- likely to be the second shortest president Zachary Taylor, who responsibly”. “The fact that Vice The exclusive, members-only changed the conversation from an tration. By firing a mobile, solid- ministration in the coming months. ever, a leading historian and author died of a digestive ailment while President Mike Pence played a Mar-a-Lago Club is accustomed to invigorated U.S.-Japan alliance and fuel intermediate-range ballistic After all, there are no good options has claimed. Head of State in 1850. The 20th major role in pushing Flynn out is keeping out riffraff, but not even a stabilized U.S.-China relation- missile (IRBM) from an air base for dealing with a North Korea Professor Ronald L Feinman century American history profes- a sign that Pence is already assert- Donald Trump’s private retreat ship. Thus, less than a month into near the northwest frontier with determined to acquire nuclear predicted that the former reality sor, who recently published a book ing himself with Trump” he said, fortified by Secret Service agents a hugger-mugger transition of pow- China, Kim maximized the element weapons capable of threatening TV star will stay in the top job about the unfortunate fates of US adding the vice President often could prevent Kim Jong-un from er, President Trump’s besieged and of surprise to ensure intelligence U.S. soil. One former Obama ad- "between the 31 days of William leaders, added that he thought the appears uncomfortable with Mr intruding upon his golf-diploma- revolving national-security team agencies had none of the early- ministration official recently lik- Henry Harrison in 1841", who died “Pence Presidency” was inevita- Trump’s “freewheeling and care- cy summit with Shinzo Abe. Test could be forgiven if North Korea’s warning signals that would attend ened the dearth of policy options pneumonia and the "199 days of ble. He was referring to Mr less behaviour”. No US president firing a nuclear-capable missile into missile launch—followed by the a fixed-site, liquid-fuel launch. Kim to those in the fictional Star Trek James A. Garfield in 1881", who Trump's Vice President, Mike has ever been successfully im- the Sea of Japan provides a type reported poisoning of Kim Jong- also chose the moment to provide Kobayashi Maru no-win scenar- died 79 days after he was shot by Pence, who would take over if Mr peached, although an attempt was of admission, albeit a very expen- un’s half brother—made some re- sharp contrast between his thrust- io. Kim’s launch of a new hybrid an assassin "after terrible suffer- Trump was to leave the leadership. made to Bill Clinton but he was sive and unwelcome one. call Henry Kissinger’s quip that ing missile capabilities and the no variant IRBM is undeniably a test. ing and medical malpractice". Even In a blog post, he added that acquitted by the Senate. Richard The test also interrupted for- “there cannot be a crisis next week. longer de-stressing leaders of the But as Secretary of Defense James if his time in office is "dragged out", he thought it was likely that Mr Nixon also resigned before he could ty-eight hours of hugely success- My schedule is already full.” Kim region’s strongest alliance. This Mattis is fond of saying, “the en- Professor Feinman predicted that Trump will be impeached or forced be impeached for serious wrong- ful Asia diplomacy for the Trump was counting on creating a crisis story was originally published by emy has a vote,” and in this in- Mr Trump is unlikely to last the to resign in a matter of weeks. His doing in the Watergate scandal. administration. It abruptly for the fledgling Trump adminis- The National Interest stance we are the enemy. (Scout) China tells Japan ‘negative’ Islamic State leaders Iran, moves prevent improvement flee Syria’s Raqqa: Serbia call in ties Pentagon for closer A months-long campaign to iso- pect a tough fight for the Syrian Iran,Azerbaijan ink late and pressure the Islamic State city. The U.S.-led coalition has energy group's self-declared capital of been pounding the Raqqa area reg- Raqqa, Syria, is paying off as the ularly for months. On Thursday it MoU to broaden judicial administrative backbone of the conducted 17 strikes near the city, coop militant organization is beginning targeting two IS military staging cooperation to crack, the Pentagon said Friday. areas and an IS combat unit, ac- Iran and Serbia have called for IS leaders "are beginning the cording to the U.S. Central Com- further expansion of long-term Iranian Justice Minister Mostafa sues, human rights cooperation, process of leaving Raqqa and mov- mand's daily airstrike tally. It said cooperation in the fields of en- Pourmohammadi and his Azeri children’s rights, fighting terrorism, ing their operations farther down- the attacks destroyed four tunnels, ergy and mining following the counterpart Fikrat Mammadov illegal drugs, money laundering, river," said Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, three fighting positions, three IS- implementation of Iran’s nuclear signed a memorandum of under- technical, training and research co- a Pentagon spokesman. He said an held buildings, two weapons stor- deal. standing (MoU) to expand bilat- operation as interaction grounds unspecified number of IS "bureau- age areas, two IS headquarters, a Iran’s Ambassador to Bel- eral ties, specially in legal and ju- between two countries. Iran and crats" are heading east along the bridge and other targets. The coa- grade Hossein Mola Abdollahi dicial fields. The MoU focuses on Azerbaijan enjoy cooperation in north bank of the Euphrates River lition also launched 11 airstrikes held talks with Serbian Minis- cooperation within the framework extradition, prisoners swap and toward Deir el-Zour, because they near Deir el-Zour, destroying 20 ter of Energy and Mining Ale- of previously signed agreements legal and judicial cooperation based see "the end is near in Raqqa." "We oil tanker trucks, six oil wellheads, ksandar Antic in Belgrade on between two countries, specially on 3 MoUs signed previously. Ira- are seeing now an exodus of their two artillery systems, an oil stor- Friday, where the two sides the continuation of talks on the in- nian justice minister arrived in leadership," Davis said, adding: age tank and a crane. "ISIL is going ternational rights issues and hold- Azerbaijan Republic on Thursday China has told Japan that “nega- commitments and adopts a respon- stressed the need for closer "This seems to be a very organized, to have to think hard about where cooperation and expansion of ing joint training meetings in chil- for an official two-day visit. Dur- tive” moves by Tokyo on major sible attitude, thus preventing the orderly withdrawal of a lot of their they go next. Do they have any dren and women fields. Iranian and ing the first day, he met President issues are preventing an improve- occurrence of incidents damaging bilateral relations in the wake Azeri judges and staff benefiting of Azerbaijan Republic Ilham ment in bilateral ties, but there are the political foundation of the Chi- of the implementation of Iran’s from advanced technologies and Aliyev. He is also scheduled to visit now opportunities to improve na-Japan ties, can there be real nuclear deal and the lift of sanc- up-to-date knowledge in imple- head of Azerbaijan Republic Su- China-Japan relations. improvement in relations.” The tions. menting justice is one of the arti- preme Court as well as the coun- Chinese Foreign Minister two were meeting on the sidelines Abdollahi referred to the cles of the MoU. Pourmohamma- try’s prime minister and parliament Wang Yi told his Japanese coun- of a gathering of foreign ministers upcoming conference on intro- di pointed to citizenship rights is- speaker. (Farsnews) terpart Fumio Kishida during a of the G20 top economies in the duction of Iran’s ample trade meeting in Germany that both German city of Bonn. and economic capabilities in countries should make efforts to Ties between Asia’s two larg- Serbia, adding representatives bring bilateral ties back onto the est economies have long been over- from Iranian private and public India vs Uzbekistan davis right track. “There are now both shadowed by arguments over their sectors active in various fields opportunities and challenges for painful wartime history and a ter- including energy will take part cup tie set for April improving China-Japan relations,” ritorial spat in the East China Sea in the conference and discuss China’s Foreign Ministry para- over a group of uninhabited islands, ways for expanding long-term Bengaluru has been named as the head record and the last time India phrased Wang as saying in a state- among other issues. cooperation between the two venue for the India vs Uzbekistan and Uzbekistan clashed was in ment late on Friday. China this week expressed countries. Asia Oceania Zone group I Davis April 2012 when the latter emerged “The continuous, negative concern after Japan got continued moves made recently by Japan re- U.S. backing for its dispute with The Iranian ambassador Cup tie from 7-9 April 2017, the 3-2 winners in a home tie. Benga- noted the private sector’s readi- All India Tennis Association said. luru last hosted the Davis Cup garding major sensitive issues have Beijing the islands during a meet- caused disturbances to the im- ing between U.S. President Donald non-combatant support people." place to go?" said Christine Wor- ness to participate in joint India had defeated New World Group play off tie against Davis did not predict an im- projects with Serbia, adding Zealand 4-1 in the first round at Serbia in September 2014 when provement of bilateral ties,” Wang Trump and Japanese Prime Min- muth, the Pentagon's top policy added, without offering details. ister Shinzo Abe. minent collapse of the militant official from 2014 to 2016. Wor- that new capacities for cooper- Pune earlier this month while India went down 2-3 to the Serbi- group, and analysts said they ex- ation will be identified and in- Uzbekistan got the better of Ko- ans. The winner of the tie will ad- “Only when Japan honors its (Japantoday) muth, now a senior adviser at the rea 3-1 in the away first round tie, vance to the World Group Play- Center for Strategic and Interna- troduced during Iran-Serbia’s NDTV reported. The two coun- offs, to be held in September. tional Studies, a Washington think 15th Joint Economic Commis- tries are locked 2-2 in a head-to- (Akipress) tank, said she expected some fight- sion’s meeting. ers would stay in Raqqa and fight. Aleksandar Antic, for his Eritrean asylum seeker jailed "The whole point of the isolate part, expressed hope that good mission is to try to squeeze them talks would be held during his and get them to leave and flush future visit to Tehran on expan- Azerbaijan’s GDP increases after stealing £30k in benefits them out into the open," she said. sion of bilateral transactions in President Barack Obama's strate- The volume of Azerbaijan’s GDP manat) – for construction, 2.7 per- the fields of energy and min- reached 5.23 billion manat (offi- gy was to recruit, organize and ing. cent (140.2 million manat) – for using FOUR different names enable local Syrian Kurdish and cial exchange rate on Feb. 18 is agriculture, forestry and fishery. Arab fighters to retake Raqqa, rath- He also called for Iran’s par- 1.7352 AZN/USD) in January Net taxes on production and im- AN asylum seeker has been jailed in Germany for swindling the taxpayer out of ticipation in the privatization 2017 that is by 0.8 percent more er than put American combat forc- ports accounted for 6.1 percent of nearly £30,000 by claiming benefits for FOUR different identities. es in the lead. The Trump admin- process of Serbia’s Pancevo than in the same period of 2016, Azerbaijan’s GDP. According to refinery, highlighting the need according to the country’s State Eritrean Harun Adam Abo Aela, tions. Just ten days ago another record of 218,394 migrants and istration is now reevaluating that the report, 9.4 percent of the GDP approach and considering options for further mutual efforts for Statistics Committee. The volume (493.9 million manat) produced in 28, was charged and sentenced court in Germany sentenced a 25- refugees reached Europe by sea in improving the level of cooper- of GDP reached almost 3 billion under the name Ahmed Moham- year-old Sudanese man to a sus- October, the UN says, almost as that could include a more direct U.S. the service sector accounted for the combat role. ation between the two coun- manat in Azerbaijan’s non-oil sec- trade and repair of vehicles, 7.2 med, even though authorities said pended jail term of 21 months for many as the total number of arriv- tries. tor and its share in the country’s that was “probably” not his real the same fiddle which netted him als in 2014. We take a look at the At his confirmation hearing a percent (378.4 million manat) – month ago, Defense Secretary Jim (Mehrnews) GDP was 56.3 percent. The vol- transport and warehousing, 2.5 name. But they could not find a nearly 16,000 pounds in bogus shocking statistics facing the hu- ume of value-added production in passport for his Aela identity, even benefits. Aela was caught in the manitarian crisis. Fingerprint Mattis said the U.S. approach percent (130.8 million manat) – should be reviewed and "perhaps the field of oil and gas production tourist accommodation and cater- though he insisted that is his cor- autumn of last year when he en- checks soon unraveled the scam. A and refining was 43.7 percent of rect ID. tered a social security office in search of his state-funded accom- energized on a more aggressive ing sphere, 1.6 percent (84.6 mil- timeline." He has not said what the GDP (2.3 billion manat). Dur- lion manat) – information and com- He used the identities Salah Hanover to pick up cash for a modation in the city turned up the ing the reporting period, 47.7 per- Gafer, Hamam Achmed, Amgd “friend” – one of his fake identi- plethora of bank and ID cards bear- changes he would recommend. Last munication services, 15.9 percent week, the top U.S. commander for cent (2.5 billion manat) of Azer- (832.5 million manat) – other ser- Abas and Ahmed Adnan to claim ties – and an official was suspi- ing his fake names. baijan’s GDP accounted for indus- for money in three different Ger- cious of his papers. A monthly (Express) the counter-IS campaign in Iraq vices. and Syria, Lt. Gen. Stephen try, 6.8 percent (356.7 million (Trend) man cities. Authorities say there are numerous cheats like him Townsend, said forces leading the among the 1.3 million refugees fights for Raqqa and the northern Kazakhstan avalanche kills 7 soldiers Germany has absorbed in the past Iraqi city of Mosul should prevail 20 months, costing the state tens within the next six months. A ma- Seven soldiers died in Kazakhstan diers were participating in a mili- jor complication in the current after being hit by an avalanche dur- of millions of pounds. Aela came tary exercise in the southern Jam- to Germany in 2015 and realised strategy is Turkey's strong objec- ing a military exercise, emergency byl region when the avalanche tions to a Syrian Kurd role in the services in the Central Asian coun- he could milk the system by mov- struck, the defence ministry said ing from place to place. Raqqa campaign. The Turkish gov- try said Friday. "Sixteen soldiers in a statement. The defence minis- ernment views the U.S.-backed were rescued. Unfortunately sev- Sentencing him to 21 months try did not say how many soldiers jail in Hanover on Thursday Judge Syrian Kurdish fighters as terror- en soldiers were found dead," Rus- were involved in the exercise. Ava- ists and a threat to Turkey. The lan Imankulov, spokesman for Sabine Mzee told him: "There was lanches are common in mountain- huge damage to the public purse U.S. sees them as the most effec- Kazakhstan's emergency situa- ous parts of Central Asia. To the tive and reliable element among tions committee, told AFP by tele- through your actions.” She said he south of Kazakhstan are Kyr- had damaged the reputation of local fighters supported by the phone. "We hope the number of gyzstan and Tajikistan. Pentagon. (Thepeninsulaqatar) casualties will not rise." The sol- (Akipress) honest refugees through his ac- SUNDAY. FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

South Korean manufacturers cut employees for 7 months South Korean manufacturers cut employees for seven straight months, raising concerns about the worsening labor market in addition to the lackluster consumer spend- The moderation in India’s exports volume suggests that demonetisation may still ing, a government report showed be affecting cash-intensive export sectors, says Nomura on Wednesday. The number of those em- The impact of demonetisation is ployed in the manufacturing indus- still visible and cash levels in the try declined 160,000 in January economy are not expected to be compared with a year earlier, ac- sufficient until March, which may cording to Statistics Korea. It keep trade volumes depressed for marked the seven consecutive the next two months, says a No- month of decline and the biggest mura report. As per data released reduction in seven and a half years. by the commerce ministry, growth The protracted restructuring in exports in January was lower among troubled shipbuilders and than 5.72% in December. shipping firms discouraged manu- The moderation in India’s ex- facturers from recruiting new em- ports volume suggests that demon- ployees. The number of employ- etisation may still be affecting ees in all industries increased cash-intensive export sectors, No- 243,000 in January from a year ago, mura said in a research note, add- the lowest increase since Febru- ing that “we do not interpret this ary last year. Construction com- as a sign of reduced competitive- panies increased workers by ness”. 85,000 last month, but the trans- “We expect trade volumes to port sector reduced jobs by 37,000. remain subdued for another month The job creation in the restaurant or two as we do not expect suffi- The trade deficit for April-January improved to $86.38 and lodging sector rose 74,000 on cient cash levels in the economy billion in comparison to $107.74 billion in the same a year basis. (for transactions) until the end of period last fiscal, says Nomura. Photo: Hindustan Times Jobless rate added 0.1 percent- March,” Nomura India chief econ- age point from a year earlier to 3.8 omist Sonal Varma said in the note. ence between imports and ex- a domestic demand recovery in the percent in January, the highest in Economic relations between Chi- ternational institutions, we would slowdown, for which the interna- According to official figures, ports—for April-January, howev- second half (after remonetisation), nine months. Those who failed to na and the European Union may want to see China supporting and tional alliance's financial leadership exports totalled $ 220.92 billion er, improved to $86.38 billion in we expect the current account def- have entered a new era. EU offi- believing in the United Nations, has partially blamed Trump. The for April-January of the current comparison to $107.74 billion in icit to widen marginally to a still- cials announced an early interna- the World Trade Organisation," a U.K.'s upcoming departure from fiscal, up about 1% over the year- the same period last fiscal. sustainable 1.3% of GDP in 2017 tional summit in Brussels to forge second EU official said. the EU, which Trump hailed as ago shipments. “However, with higher com- from 0.8% in 2016,” Varma added. new trade ties with Beijing amid China and the EU have often "great thing," has also factored into The trade deficit—the differ- modity prices and expectation of (Livemint) protectionist rhetoric from Presi- not seen eye-to-eye politically as a stunted GDP forecast among dent Donald Trump. Beijing occasionally sides with the member states and even questions China, which traditionally EU's nemesis, Russia, on foreign about the EU's future. meets with the EU each July, has policy issues such as the Syrian Three weeks into his adminis- reportedly requested the econom- civil war. However, both China and tration, Trump has remained am- ic summit be hosted as soon as the EU have been directly threat- biguous about much of his foreign Turkey, Georgia, possible in order to quickly for- ened by Trump and have expressed policy strategy. His real estate mulate a defense for Trump's up- fears that the new U.S. adminis- company, the Trump Organiza- coming policies that are widely tration's economic policies would tion, was recently granted a lucra- expected to prioritize domestic disrupt their economies. tive trademark deal in China. In a Azerbaijan plan to production over foreign commerce. While China has said its own reversal, Trump agreed to honor Meanwhile, the EU saw the meet- move to bolster domestic markets the "One China Policy" in which ing as an opportunity to ascertain in recent years meant Trump's Washington foregoes normal dip- Chinese support for the U.N. and proposed trade war of tariffs as lomatic relations with Beijing's ri- increase turnover to $20b other international entities often high as 45 percent would have a val government in Taiwan. Trump land a job reached 1.009 million in dismissed by the new White limited effect on Beijing, a signifi- reportedly insisted, however, that January, topping 1 million in nine House administration and Russia, cant drop in exports last year have he expected serious concessions on months. Unemployment rate an unnamed EU official told Reu- raised concerns that the world's China's part if the two countries among youths aged 15-29 declined ters. biggest economy could slow in were to maintain positive bilateral 0.9 percentage points to 8.6 per- "With this drive by some coun- growth. EU nations have also seen relations. cent. The fall came from rising col- tries to undermine or weaken in- worrying signs of an economic (Ibtimes) lege graduates who are discouraged from seeking jobs amid the aggra- vating labor market conditions. Growth in discouraged job-seek- ers and those who lost jobs are Mnuchin warned by expected to weigh down further on the already struggling consumer spending, which was hit hard by political unrest. Japan, Germany as G-20 Consumers refrained from spending money on uncertainties about the political sphere, caused by the corruption scandal that led fears policy shift to the impeachment of President than endorsing the traditional Park Geun-hye. (Xinhuanet) strong-dollar policy of the past two decades, the administration has offered a less consistent posi- Bursa tion on the currency. It has also singled out top trading partners, and, almost in tandem, moved urkey, Georgia and Azer Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan is Azerbaijan and Georgia can be an Malaysia swiftly to withdraw from one ma- baijan plan to increase the interchangeable: via research and example for other countries.” jor trade deal and overhaul a sec- Tvolume of mutual trade up innovative potential of Turkey, He added that currently, the expected to ond. “These are negotiating tactics to $20 billion, said Turkey’s Dep- natural and geographical opportu- trade turnover among Turkey, Az- -- they are trying to send a signal uty Economy Minister Fatih nities of Georgia and strong ener- erbaijan and Georgia totals $4.2 that they don’t want to see the Metin at the 5th Turkey-Azer- gy infrastructure of Azerbaijan it billion. The Azerbaijan-Georgia- trade firmer dollar appreciate too much,” said baijan-Georgia business forum in is possible to start several joint in- Turkey business forum, organized Domenico Lombardi, a former of- Istanbul Feb. 17. itiatives, which will contribute to with the support of the Azerbaijan next week ficial on the International Mone- Metin said that a business fo- the development of industrial clus- Export and Investments Promo- tary Fund’s board. “We know that rum in such a format is important ter in all three countries, added the tion Foundation (AZPROMO), ursa Malaysia is expected with the Fed raising rates, we’re not only for the development of Turkish minister. will also be attended by Azerbaijani to trade firmer next week, Within hours of being sworn in, from Germany. During his calls going to have a stronger dollar. This economic cooperation, but also for During the period of radical Economy Minister Shahin Mus- Bboosted by an increase in U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven with Chinese officials, which in- is going to undermine Trump’s ef- rapprochement of the three coun- transformation of the global eco- tafayev, Turkish Economy Min- investor confidence following the Mnuchin’s counterparts from To- cluded Vice Premier Wang Yang, forts” to keep a pledge to double tries in social sphere. nomic system, the regional dialogue ister Nihat Zeybekci and Georgian better-than-expected gross domes- kyo to Berlin started telegraphing Mnuchin stressed the need for a the U.S. economy’s growth pace The deputy economy minis- is extremely important, said Rona Economy and Sustainable Devel- tic product (GDP) data for Ma- warnings to him: Please don’t call more balanced relationship be- to 4 percent, he said. So far, ter noted that Ankara works on Yircali, a member of Turkey’s For- opment Minister Giorgi Gakhar- laysia released on Thursday. the yen weak. Be careful how you tween the two countries, the Trea- Mnuchin has shown signs of tak- elimination of obstacles in the trade eign Economic Relations Board ia. Affin Hwang Investment Bank talk about cutting financial regula- sury’s press office said on Friday. ing a more measured approach than among Turkey, Azerbaijan and (DEIK). Azerbaijan’s trade turnover Vice President/Head of Retail Re- tions -- Europe is listening. Mnuchin said he wanted “strong” Trump and his advisers. He has Georgia. “An agreement on free “We, as three neighboring coun- with Turkey amounted to $2.3 bil- search Datuk Dr Nazri Khan Adam As President Donald Trump engagement and would work with kept a low profile, not granting any trade between Turkey and Geor- tries, should work together for the lion in 2016, with Georgia – to al- Khan said the benchmark FTSE waited a few weeks for the U.S. China on areas including the econ- interviews except on the day his gia and the discussion of an agree- continuation of economic develop- most $395 million, according to Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM Senate to confirm his Treasury omy, trade and investment in bi- nomination was announced. That ment on preferential trade between ment in our region. Azerbaijan’s State Customs Com- KLCI) would remain buoyant and secretary pick, the world watched lateral and multilateral forums. hasn’t stopped him from moving Turkey and Azerbaijan open big Development of economy will mittee. touch 1,730. as he and his advisers talked down Trump’s economic agenda is par- markets, including a brief sell-off opportunities for the development bring peace and prosperity to the Turkey became Azerbaijan’s "The FBM KLCI has been the dollar and called out China and ticularly focused on revamping in the dollar after written respons- of business relations among the region,” noted Yircali. “The effec- main trade partner and Georgia breaching the 1,700-point psycho- Japan for gaming foreign-exchange trade policies, which may be at es to senators’ questions were pub- three countries,” he said. tive cooperation among Turkey, ranked the 12th in 2016. logical barrier since Monday. markets. With Mnuchin finally in- odds with a strong dollar. Rather lished Jan. 23. (Bloomberg) The structure of economies of (Trend) Along with the better economic stalled, Group of 20 finance chiefs data, it shows that confidence will be looking for clues on wheth- among investors is improving and er he will clarify the U.S.’s curren- this will lift buying momentum," cy policy, a job that traditionally he told Bernama. Bank Negara belongs to the Treasury secretary, BILL GATES HAS ATRUMPIAN PLAN Malaysia announced that Malay- or if he no longer believes in prom- sia's GDP grew by 4.5 per cent in ises made during the Obama ad- the fourth quarter of 2016 (4Q16), ministration to refrain from com- underpinned by continued expan- petitive devaluations. “The bot- TO MAKE JOB-STEALING ROBOTS PAY sion in private sector expenditure, tom line is whether this is seen as crosoft co-founder and world’s of the excess labor is going to need leading to a full year growth of 4.2 during a photo op Friday at a Boe- urgent and highly problematic for richest man, suggests that the gov- to go help the people who have per cent. However, Nazri noted ing plant in South Carolina. It was the rest of the world -- specifical- ernment should tax companies that lower incomes,” Gates says. “And that the local stock market would ly if the administration continues a solid applause line, even if so it means that you can amp up also be influenced by the ringgit Trump’s proposed solution—re- replace human employees with to publicly work through what the A.I.-driven automation, in order to social services for old people and and commodity prices, as that of forming the tax code to encourage strategy for managing the dollar is fund job training and other kinds handicapped people and you can crude palm oil and crude oil. "If more companies to build factories going to be,” said Nathan Sheets, of employment for displaced work- take the education sector and put the commodity prices can recover in the U.S.—ignores the fact that who was undersecretary for inter- ers—the kinds of jobs robots can’t more labor in there.” Gates’ sug- further next week, it will definite- U.S. manufacturing output just hit national affairs at the Treasury do and that humans can, like tak- gestion could go hand-in-hand ly lend support to the local an all-time high. The problem isn’t during the Obama administration. ing care of children or the elderly. with another radical concept that bourse," he said, adding, the ring- the amount of product being man- If comments from the Trump “Right now, if a human worker has been gaining adherents in Sili- git had started to stabilise at 4.45 ufactured, but who is doing the administration start to cause mar- does, say, $50,000 worth of work con Valley: a universal basic in- against the US dollar recently. manufacturing. Or, more accurate- ket volatility, G-20 members may in a factory, that income is taxed,” come that would guarantee a min- Apart from that, he said the US ly, what is doing it. As leaders in escalate their rhetoric, he said. Gates says in his interview. “If a imum wage to all Americans, re- Federal Reserve's (Fed) decision on Sheets helped negotiate the re- the tech community and experts gardless of their work status. Y interest rates would also affect the in industrial manufacturing are robot comes in to do the same newed G-20 pledge in 2015 that thing, you’d think that we’d tax Combinator president Sam Altman benchmark index. "Nevertheless, aware, advances in artificial intel- was designed to ensure nations the robot at a similar level.” has been a vocal proponent of the judging from the statement by Fed ligence and automation are making avoid getting drawn into currency Raising the tax level could also idea, which was previously pro- Chair Janet Yellen during her testi- it so that fewer people in the battles. help “slow down the speed” of posed by conservative economist mony before Congress recently, Finance ministers may take the U.S.—and China and Mexico, Milton Friedman. Nixon even tried there seems to be no rush to in- too—are needed to operate ma- automation, Gates says, allowing opportunity to, with a light touch companies to manage job displace- to pass a version of Friedman’s crease interest rates," he added. For chinery, build cars, or assemble during congratulatory calls, remind ment in warehouses and in other “negative income tax” in the early the week-just-ended, the local mar- devices. Robots, not foreigners, are Mnuchin of those commitments. impacted industries, like trucking. 1970s, though the idea didn’t go ket saw range-bound trading, the top long-term threat to em- As Treasury secretary, Mnuchin It is fairly obvious, when looking turing jobs. “We want products It would also fund a significant re- anywhere. helped by trading in heavyweights has so far spoken with his Chi- at the economic data, that Donald made by our workers in our facto- ployment and wages. And Bill Altman’s own basic-income led-by energy stocks, trade and Gates, for one, offers a real solu- distribution of wealth, offsetting nese counterparts as well the Trump is largely missing the point ries stamped with those four mag- the trend of income accumulating study has since led to a pilot pro- services and industrial stocks, as U.K.’s Philip Hammond, Japan’s when he blames China or Mexico nificent words—made in the tion: a robot tax. In a fascinating gram being implemented in Oak- well as the better-than-expected interview with Quartz, the Mi- to capital. “If you want to do Taro Aso and Wolfgang Schaeuble for the decline of U.S. manufac- U.S.A.,” the president declared [something about] inequity, a lot land. (Vanityfair) GDP data. (Thestar) SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES Angelina Jolie in Cambodia to showcase her Khmer Rouge film Siem Reap, Cambodia: Angelina Jolie will unveil her new film on the horrors of the Khmer Rouge era on Saturday at the ancient An- gkor Wat temple complex in Cam- bodia, a country the star shares a deep affinity with through her adopted son Maddox. Cambodia's king and survivors of the communist regime will be among some 1,500 people invited to the debut screening of "First They Killed My Father", directed by Jolie and the based on the mem- oirs of Loung Ung. Loung Ung was five years old when the Khmer Rouge swept into Phnom Penh plunging her family into a harrow- ing ordeal in brutal labour camps before she eventually escaped to the United States. In its quest for an agrarian Marxist utopia, the re- gime killed up to two million Cam- bodians between 1975-1979 through execution, starvation, and overwork. "The movie reflects the brutality of the Khmer Rouge re- gime," Sin Chanchhaya, director of Cambodia's Cinema and Cultural Diffusion Department, told AFP. "This is a big deal for us. There is a strong interest among the Cam- bodian people (for the film)," he added. It is the second movie Jolie has made tackling the subject of genocide -- in 2011 she made a film about the Bosnian conflict featur- ing entirely local actors. But her latest silver screen offering is more personal. Jolie adopted her first son Maddox from an orphanage in Cambodia's western Battambang province in 2002 and frequently travels to the country. She was awarded Cambodian citizenship by King Norodom Sihamoni. Family ties In an on-set interview with the Guardian published last month, she said it was Maddox, 15, who urged her to make the film. "He was the one who just called it and said he was ready and that he want- ed to work on it, which he did. He read the script, helped with notes, and was in the production meet- ings," she said. Because of those who survived and remember the brutal regime, Jolie has been at pains to ensure she treads careful- US musical "La La Land" picked sic, while Emma Stone won as lead- ing actress in "Fences," and Dev ly as a foreigner tackling such a up five of the 11 prizes it had been ing actress and Damien Chazelle Patel as supporting actor in "Lion. sensitive topic. "Here everyone nominated for at Sunday evening's as director, according to the (dpa). British Academy Film Awards has been through it. Everybody is BAFTAs, the British film and tele- Casey Affleck won the leading ac- (BAFTAs) was founded in 1947, standing ten feet away from some- vision awards, at London's Royal tor award for "Manchester by the is the world's highest art awards one else who has been through it," Albert Hall. The movie went Sea," which also took the original performance proceeding the Os- she told the Guardian. home with awards for best film, screenplay award. cars ceremony in the United States. (Thepeninsulaqatar) cinematography and original mu- Viola Davis won as support- (Hollywoodreports) Arjun Rampal on playing blind Very difficult to get good in Aankhen 2: Not competing Is Selena discussing past flame with Hrithik Roshan Justin Bieber in new track? films: Taapsee Pannu Taapsee Pannu has Running Asked if Akshay Kumar, who was in the previous part, elena Gomez’s new song Shaadi.com, Naam Shabana, The will be seen in Aankhen 2? Rampal said the only two char- It Ain’t Me with Norwe Ghazi Attack and Judwaa 2 lined acters which repeated are Amitab Bachan and me. Howev- gian DJ Kygo was re- up. er, “we wanted, but Akshay is busy with his films”. leased on Thursday. And Actress Taapsee Pannu is on a roll. though the rhythm is upbeat, She has at least four films lined up the lyrics are heartbreaking, re- for 2017, and she is loving her busy phase. ported Daily Mail. The 24-year- She has Running Shaadi.com, old singer who was in a rela- Naam Shabana, The Ghazi Attack tionship with the Sorry hit mak- and Judwaa 2 in her kitty. er Justin Bieber and is now ro- "It's very difficult to get good films mancing The Weeknd, sings for us, so I am very much excited about dating an alcoholic. about all my films," Taapsee said Twitter users were quick to as- here on the sidelines of a special sume the song is directed to- screening of Running Shaadi, wards Bieber, who was arrest- which is releasing on Friday. ed for a DUI and resisting ar- The movie, debut directed by rest in Florida in 2014. “We were Amit Roy, also features Amit sipping whisky neat / Highest Sadh. Talking about the romance floor, the Bowery / And I was comedy, she said: high enough,” Gomez sings. "I am little nervous and excit- “Somewhere along the lines / ed as well. 'Running Shaadi' is very We stopped seeing eye to eye special to me and because of this / You were staying out all night film, I got to work in Pink. / And I had enough.” I am looking forward to seeing the audience's reaction. "Until now Bieber has since cleaned up, you have seen me doing rough and and delivered the hit album Pur- tough roles, so now I want to see pose. if I can also make the audience In fact, several of his songs on laugh. I am pretty sure this film the album such as Sorry and Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal carry forward the role from the first will be able to bring a smile on ev- Purpose are about making eryone's face." Running Shaadi re- who will be playing a visually im- film and how to enhance it and for amends for his bad behaviour. paired character in the much- that, I need to train hard.” volves around a unique concept of awaited sequel to the 2002 hit film Asked if Akshay Kumar, who She adds, “Who’s gonna Aankhen, said he was not compet- was in the previous part, will be walk you through the dark side ing with anyone but the challenge seen in the movie? Rampal said the of the morning? / Who’s gon- is to raise the standard. only two characters which repeat- na rock you when the sun “Aankhen has been a special ed are Amitab Bachan and me. won’t let you sleep? / Who’s film in my career and still people However, “we wanted, but Akshay waking up to drive you home talk about this film wherever I go... is busy with his films”. when you’re drunk and all technically we are much improved Produced by Gaurang Doshi alone? / Who’s gonna walk you now we want to take the movie to and directed by Anees Bazmee, the through the dark side of the another level,” Rampal told media. film features Amitabh Bachchan morning? / It ain’t me.” “There is only one and half months and the three blind men will be This is Gomez’s first song left to start the shoot in South Af- played by Anil Kapoor, Arjun after a break of about a year. rica. We will be doing some amaz- Rampal and Arshad Warsi, Ilena Her last hit was Kill ‘Em With ing stunts. So we are training hard D’Cruz will be seen playing the Kindness from her Revival al- for that,” he added. “I am trying to female lead. (Hindustan Times) bum. (Tribune)

os Angeles: Actress Nicole man" will start in April in Austra- Kidman is in early negotia lia. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who Ltions to join the cast of starred on Netflix's "The Get "Aquaman" as the mother of the Down", has been tapped to play superhero, played by Jason Mo- the villain Black Manta. Amber moa. Heard is playing Mera, Aquaman's Warner Bros' "Aquaman", be- love interest, and Willem Dafoe ing helmed by James Wan, will re- will portray Aquaman's science helping people run away with off of the 2015 film Baby. lease in October 2018. advisor, Dr. Vulko. Meanwhile, the love of their life to get mar- Taapsee is reprising her role "Aquaman" is based on the Kidman has been nominated for an ried. as Shabana along with the pre- DC Comics character who is king Academy Award in the Best Sup- In The Ghazi Attack, where vious star cast Akshay Kumar of Atlantis, born half-human as porting Actress category for her Taapsee plays a prominent role, and Anupam Kher. Arthur Curry and half-Atlantean. work in "Lion". She is also star- is based on the mysterious Besides this, she has start- Aquaman's mother is Atlanna, ring in and executive producing sinking of PNS Ghazi during In- ed shooting for Judwaa 2, in who has escaped the underwater HBO's series "Big Little Lies" - dia-Pakistan war of 1971. which she will be seen playing kingdom and had a son with a light- which will air in India on Star World Her Naam Shabana is an Varun Dhawan's love interest. house keeper, reports variety.com. Premiere HD from February 23. action spy thriller and a spin- (Santa Banta) The production on "Aqua- (Thepeninsulaqatar) SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES Brett Rumford Northern Irish Premiership Australia v Sri Lanka: leads as Alex Tourists claim final ball Noren misses round-up: Cliftonville, Glentoran cut at World victory in first T20I Asela Gunaratne hit a half-centu- Sri Lanka lost Upul Tharanga Super 6 Perth share spoils in Sky Sports return ry as Sri Lanka claimed a five-wick- (0) in the first over of their reply, et victory from the last ball of the but a 74-run stand between Niros- rett Rumford will take a two- first T20I against Australia in han Dickwella (30 off 25 balls) and shot lead in to the weekend Melbourne. Munaweera put them in a strong Bat the ISPS Handa World Needing 169 to win, the scores position midway through the in- Super 6 Perth, where top seed Alex were level with one ball remaining nings. Noren suffered an early exit. and it was left to Chamara Adam Zampa removed Mu- Rumford made the most of Kapugedera to hit the winning runs naweera to boost Australia's chanc- good conditions at Lake Karrinyup off Andrew Tye. es, only for Gunaratne to kick on to post a seven-under 65 and move Gunaratne (52 off 37 balls) and and reach his maiden T20I fifty, two clear of morning leader David Dilshan Munaweera (44 off 29) hitting seven boundaries in the pro- Bransdon, who threatened the had taken the visitors to within cess, before he was stumped off course record on his way shooting sight of victory after skipper Ashton Turner (2-12) from the 64. Aaron Finch had top-scored with first ball of the 18th over. The pair are now well-placed 43 as Australia posted 168-6 in After Turner claimed his sec- to reach the final round, where the their 20 overs. ond wicket, that of Milinda Siri- innovative format sees the top 24 Finch and Michael Klinger (38) wardana (15), later in the over, it players after 54 holes progress to put on 76 for the first wicket be- was left to Kapugedera and a match play shoot-out on Sun- fore falling in consecutive overs. Seekkuge Prasanna (8no) to finish day. Fellow Australian Steven Jef- Travis Head ensured that no mo- the job. fress sits a further stroke back in mentum was lost though, hitting They duly did so with Kapu- third, while Noren missed the cut 31 from 25 balls, before holing out gendera (10no) hitting the final ball by one shot despite a bogey-free to give Lasith Malinga (2-29) the through cover for four to give Sri 69 on Friday. first of his two wickets on his re- Lanka a 1-0 lead in the three-match "For any players, that's why turn to international cricket. series. (Cricket News) it's going to be so unique and so interesting," Rumford said. There are sort of cuts within cuts this week. "If you're not thinking about it, then maybe it's a good thing or maybe a bad thing. I'm not too sure, but definitely the top eight is where you want to be. I'm just going to take it one day at a time." Beginning the day three shots off the pace, Bransdon bird- ied his opening two holes and fol- lowed gains at the 13th and 15th with a 15-footer at the 18th to Cliftonville and Glentoran shared mark as home goalkeeper Peter Glentoran still occupy the eighth with 11 minutes of normal time to the spoils as the Northern Irish Burke palmed an effort from Chris spot, two points behind Dungan- play, but they were unable to find Premiership returned to action in Lavery into his path, allowing the non Swifts. Dungannon were beat- a second as Crusaders extended front of the Sky Sports cameras. Glens frontman to slot home from en 2-1 by top of the table side Cru- their lead to nine points at the top A new six-year deal to show close range. saders at Stangmore Park, with the of the table. games from the league was an- But on the stroke of 60 min- league leaders racing into a two- Elsewhere, Glenavon also nounced earlier this week, and the utes, Daniel Hughes levelled for the goal lead before the break. Paul picked up three points on Friday action kicked off in entertaining hosts after controlling a fine long Heatley gave the visitors the lead evening, beating Ballinamallard fashion as the two sides played pass from Jay Donnelly that he in the 11th minute before captain United 3-0 while the league's rock out a 1-1 draw at Solitude. duly put into the back of the net. Colin Coates added a second just bottom side Portadown picked up Curtis Allen put Glentoran The point sees Cliftonville remain before the break. Cormac Burke a much-needed point in a 1-1 draw ahead on the quarter of an hour in third place on 53 points while pulled a goal back for Dungannon with Linfield. (Sky Sport) Tour de France starts Reece Belotti, Isaac Chamberlain, in 2018 in Vendee, Craig ‘Spider’ Richards star in Pays de la Loire NXTGEN series Reece Belotti will headline as Matchroom Boxing launch their reach the turn in 31. NXTGEN series at York Hall. Bransdon moved ahead of Unbeaten prospect Belotti (8- joint-leader Lucas Herbert with a 0) will face 40-fight veteran Dai birdie-three at the first and added Davies in a British featherweight further gains over the next two title eliminator on Friday March holes, with his bogey-free round 17 in a new scheme to showcase falling one stroke short of the future prospects. Also on the card, course record. Craig 'Spider' Richard challenges Joint overnight leader Rum- Southern Area super-middleweight ford birdied his opening hole and champion Alan Higgins while Isaac saved par after finding trees at the Chamberlain returns to the Lon- fourth, before claiming top spot don venue where he overcame a with a run of five consecutive gains dislocated shoulder to beat Wadi from the sixth. A 30-foot gain at Camacho in his last fight. NXT- ace organisers have con Cavendish claimed the yellow jer- the 13th was cancelled out by a GEN shows will allow our young firmed the 2018 Tour de sey for the first time in his career blemish at the next, only for Rum- fighters to box deep and headline France will start on home with victory at Utah Beach. Other ford to double advantage with a their own shows as they progress R soil in the Vendee and Pays de la starts have taken place in Belgium. birdie-four at the 15th. to major titles. "As our stable in- Loire. the Netherlands, Corsica and Herbert and American Jo- creases so does the demand for The race last started in the memorably, back in 2014, York- hannes Veerman share fourth spot boxing content and the NXTGEN Vendee back in 2011 when Phil- shire. The 2017 race will get un- after matching rounds of 68, while shows will allow our young fight- ippe Gilbert won the opening stage derway on July 1 with a time-trial former Perth winners Thorbjørn ers to box deep and headline their to secure the first yellow jersey. in the German city of Dusseldorf. Olesen and Louis Oosthuizen are own shows as they progress to Since then, the race has only start- Details of the 2018 route will on seven under. (BBC Sport) major titles," said promoter Eddie ed on the French mainland once, in be unveiled on February 28. Hearn. (Sky Sport) the summer of 2016 when Mark (Fox Sport) Sam Sunderland wins motor-cycling category of Dakar Rally Sam Sunderland has become the ner of the event, including six times on two wheels. The Dakar Rally first Briton to win the motor-cy- began 1978 as a gruelling race from Paris across the Sahara to the Sene- cle section of the Dakar Rally, galese capital but switched to South America in 2009 for security rea- which ended in Argentina on Sat- sons. urday. (BBC Sport) It was the 27-year-old’s third Newport handler. "We need to get aim this year," said Curtis. "I want attempt at winning the event which a run into him after that disappoint- to get two runs into him before- began in the late 1970s. ing run in the Sky Bet, where he hand and it's just good to have him The KTM rider secured vic- was found to have a fibrillating back. "He had his issues early in tory after the 12th and final stage heart. the autumn so it's good to have which ran for 40 miles into the "I hope it was just a one-off, a him back sound." town of Rio Cuarto. freak thing that happened. He was Another horse returning after The Dubai-based rider previ- fully checked the next day and the a lengthy lay-off is the King-trained ously entered in 2012 and 2014, vets couldn't find a problem. Ordo Ab Chao, who has his first only to retire on each occasion due "It's a bit of a comeback run run for 680-days in the Les Am- to mechanical problems. for him, but he's been well at bassadeurs Casino Handicap Hur- It is the 16th year in a row home." Label Des Obeaux got off dle. "Ordo Ab Chao was very ill that KTM have won the motor- the mark over fences in good style with pneumonia and pleurisy last bike title. at Ludlow, after being placed in season and we nearly lost him," Sunderland, who was born in better company in his three previ- King said. Poole, won the fifth stage and fin- ous starts. "It has taken him a long time ished sixth in the final race. Trainer Alan King is hoping to recover, but he's now ready to His margin of victory over that will have given the six-year- start back and if he ran well we Aussie team-mate Matthias old a mental boost. might look at one of the handicaps Walkner was 32 minutes. "While the Reynoldstown at Cheltenham. Spaniard Joan Barreda, who Chase is a Grade Two, our fellow King also saddles the novice won four stages in total, could only loves cut in the ground and, though My Khaleesi, who only just got finish fifth overall. the forecast is dry, the going will home to open her account over Stephane Peterhansel, pic- still be soft which will suit him." hurdles at Fontwell six weeks ago tured here on stage nine, collected Curtis is delighted to get after taking second place behind his 13th Dakar title O'Faolains Boy back on the track Colins Sister in a Listed event at Stephane Peterhansel, pic- Rebecca Curtis has her fingers The eight-year-old, who had in the Keltbray Swinley Limited Haydock on her previous start. tured here on stage nine, collected crossed Bigbadjohn will have no shown good form going into that Handicap Chase after a 337-day "My Khaleesi had to work his 13th Dakar title repeat of recent problems when he race including finishing second to absence. The Randox Health Grand hard to break her maiden at The 2016 winner, Toby Price tackles the Sodexo Reynoldstown Thistlecrack at Newbury, was National is the long-term objective Fontwell, having finished second of Australia, pulled out of this Chase at Ascot on Saturday. found to be suffering from a fibril- for the 10-year-old, who was last in a Listed hurdle at Haydock, but year's race during the fourth stage. Bigbadjohn was being eased by lating heart. seen finishing seventh in the Chel- the Fontwell runner-up has won The car section was won, yet his jockey Jonathan Burke when The vets could find nothing tenham Gold Cup won by Don since," he said. again, by Frenchman Stephane he slipped up on the bend going untoward after giving the horse a Cossack. "The form looks solid, and Peterhansel who beat his compa- out for the final circuit of the Sky thorough check-up and Curtis re- "I think there will be room for again the more the ground dries out triot and Peugeot team-mate Se- Bet Chase at Doncaster last ports Bigbadjohn to be in fit and a bit of improvement in him on the the better for the mare." bastien Loeb by five minutes and month, for which he started 9/2 well. back of this run and we're keen to (Sky Sport) 13 seconds. favourite. "He's in great form," said the make the Grand National his main Peterhansel is a 13-time win- SUNDAY . FEBRUARY 19. 2017-Hoot 01, 1395 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 200 Price: Afs.20

Govt failed to support industrialists: AIA

I discussed the same issues with changed on the ground. King Abdullah of Jordan. Many I sensed that Iran was trying Sunni Arab Iraqis, particularly to domesticate the Sunni Arabs so from Al Anbar Province, had tak- that the community would never Officials in the Afghanistan In- en refuge in Jordan. The king’s gov- again raise its head. dustrial Association (AIA) said ernment facilitated contacts with Based on conversations with Government of Afghanistan has tribal leaders. King Abdullah was Iraqis who interacted extensively failed to provide lands, decrease more upon than other Sunni region- with Iranian officials dealing whit the electricity price, inaugurate al leaders to engaging Iraq’s Shia Iraq, I became very impressed with industrial Bank, and to decrease Arab leadership. the analytical skills of the Irani- the taxes over the imported com- I seized every opportunity I ans. Their analyses and calculation modities from abroad. Chief of had to advance Sunni Arab out- were much better than those of the Afghanistan Industrial Asso- reach through regional actors. Western Intelligence agencies or ciation Sakhi Ahmad Paiman When Washington ignored Turk- even neighboring Arab regimes. The said, “The electricity price hiked ish Foreign Minister Abdullah Quds Force had an enormous num- again, the promised lands wasn’t Gul’s offer to convene Sunni Arab ber of Iraqis on its payroll, some- distributed, no necessary mea- Iraqis and U.S. officials, I took times at low levels and other times surements adopted to inaugurate matters into my own hands. I at much higher levels. Iran also al- Industrial bank, and the taxation called Gul and said that if he would lowed the families of Iraqi politi- level from the imported goods organize the Sunni Arabs, I would cal figures to live in Iran or send were supposed to be decreased, attend, Gul was startled that I did their children to school in the coun- while in Afghanistan. They ignored none has been accomplished by not wait for clearance from Wash- try. my requests. the Government of Afghanistan.” ington. He embraced the chance to I found that Iranians to be very Frustrated, I raised the issue Meanwhile Deputy of the work with us, and our efforts even- cynical operators. They seemed to with President Bush directly at an NSC meeting. He authorized me Chamber of Commerce and In- tually helped persuade Sunni Ar- treat Iraq’s Shia Arabs as cannon abs of the Iraqi Islamic Party to fodder. I sometimes told Shia Is- to engage the Iranians. Hakim then dustry (ACCI) Baz Mohammad traveled to Iran and met with Aya- Afasarzai said, “The Ministry join the political process. lamist leaders, who were close to I was less successful in chal- Iran, that I believed Tehran want- tollah Khamenei. He convinced of Commerce and Industry lenging Syria and Iran. ed to turn Iraq into a smoldering Khamenei that a dialogue between doesn’t have determined policy Syria was not only proving ruin that the Iranians could then the U.S. and Iran was in the inter- to support the craftsmen, Gov- safe haven to the Sunni Arab in- control with ease. Some of my in- est of Iraq, Iraqi Shias, and Iran ernment has provided none sup- surgency, it was allowing a flow of terlocutors quietly concurred with itself. ports.” However the Deputy of foreign fighters to come through my view. In fact, on one occasion, Upon his return, Hakim told the Afghanistan Industrial Asso- its territory. In 2005 I raised the Maliki told us that he believed that me that the Iranians wished to en- ciation Abdul Jabar Safi said, issue with Washington. Iran was behind the bombing of gage in a dialogue not only about “President Mohammad Ashraf I suggested that we giver Dam- the Golden Mosque. Iraq, but about all the issues divid- Ghani had promised to have the ascus an ultimatum: if they did not I struggled to get the Bush ad- ing the United States and Iran. Pakistan is running out of friends In the decade and a half since game.” Afghanistan Bank chief to estab- cut off the flow of foreign fighters, ministration to develop a strategy khomenei blessed the initiative. in Washington. Recent publica- 9/11, a generation of U.S. military Pakistan ought to take this lish Industrial Bank for support- the United States would close the for the Iran problem. Washington Tehran put together a team from tions by influential U.S. experts, and intelligence professionals has darkening mood seriously. If it acts ing and encouraging of Afghan airport and destroy its runways. had a contradictory policy. It across the Iranian foreign and se- Congressional testimony by offi- witnessed the Pakistani army’s against the terrorist groups that Industrialists, but yet to see that Washington deliberated briefly on spoke loudly against Iran, and it curity department to attend the cials and signs out of the Trump support for terrorist groups such operate from its soil, it will begin happened.” 2100 firms are ac- my idea and then rejected it, argu- refused to talk with the Iranians. meeting in Baghdad. I planned to administration all point in the same as the Haqqani network, the Tali- to earn back trust in Washington. tive at the entire country where ing that the foreign fighters would But it was not willing to take on wave off discussions of issue oth- direction: The U.S. will step up ban and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The 2011 But if it persists with business as 96 of the factories were sealed simply find another route. I asked Iranian activities in Iraq. I did not er than Iraq, the only one over pressure on Islamabad to crack discovery of Osama bin Laden a usual—distinguishing between due to different issues in Kanda- for alternative strategies to address see the logic of this approach. which I had authority. down on terrorist groups that tar- stone’s throw from Pakistan’s top “bad terrorists” who attack Paki- har province yesterday, this has Syrian conduct. None was forth- Talks would have offered the pros- For reasons that remain un- get U.S. troops in Afghanistan and military academy cemented the stanis and “good terrorists” who left hundreds of workers jobless. coming. pect of influencing Iran, though this clear to me, Washington did an destabilize Afghanistan and India. narrative of Islamabad’s “double attack Americans, Afghans...P2 (ATN) Iranian-supported militias, would certainly have been difficult. about-face and concluded from the meanwhile, were attacking coali- However, if we were not going to incident that the Americans could tion forces. Rockets and mortars engage the Iranians, I left that we not be trusted and were not series fired at the Green Zone invariably should have used other means, in- about diplomatic engagement with came from Shia Arab neighbor- cluding force, to thwart their strat- Iran. Late in my tenure in Bagh- hoods where the Badr Organiza- egy. dad, the Bush administration re- tion or the Mahdi Army were dom- I confronted senior administra- versed course again and allowed inant. Together with General Ca- tion officials with the contradic- carefully circumscribed talks on sey, we gave detailed briefings to tions in our policy. In 2006 I re- Iraq. But Washington never autho- Talabani, Jaafari, and Maliki on peatedly asked for the authority rized the kind of continuous en- Iran’s activities. They raised the to engage the Iranians in Iraq, just gagement that might have shaped issue with Tehran, but nothing as I had done with Iranian officials Iran’s conduct. To be continued Salang pass,Herat-Badghis Taliban trying highway closed for traffic to infiltrate security demns these attacks in the stron- Pakistan and other international gest terms. “Such attacks on civil- partners to achieve this. Both the organs: Weesa ians are abhorrent and must be con- countries must maintain strong and demned in the strongest possible transparent commitments to pre- GARDEZ : The governor for terms as against both countries’s venting such groups from operat- southeastern Paktia province on shared values and principles.” ing on their soil. And according to Saturday claimed Taliban militants Atmar told Aziz that Daesh has principles of cooperation and mu- were trying to get recruited their officially taken responsibility for tual interest, there should be no men in security organs. the latest attack. “Daesh attacks distinction between terrorist Zalmai Weesa told a press con- have killed and wounded hundreds groups who themselves show no ference in Gardez, the provincial of Afghans in recent months. Both distinction between countries or capital, that the militants were us- nations face a common enemy, and people and no regard for human ing various tactics to disrupt secu- recent attacks of Daesh and other rights, the NSA office said in a rity. He went on to claim that the terrorists at a University, a statement. “We must find and ex- rebels were trying to recruit their mosque, the Supreme Court and ecute effective strategies to elimi- spies in security organs through tribal and local influential individ- AT News Report on peaceful demonstrators in Kab- nate terrorist sanctuaries wherev- those killed and wounded in the ul and many other provinces have er they exist.” Atmar and Aziz uals and some officials. KABUL: The National Security recent attacks. Atmar made the re- taken innocent lives.” Further- agreed to consult with their lead- However, the governor said Adviser, Mohammad Haneef At- mark during a telephonic conver- more, Atmar called on Aziz to ership and discuss how to better CHARIKAR : The Salang highway highway is usually risky for traf- they were aware of the issue and mar has expressed deepest condo- sation with Pakistan’s Foreign Af- work together against these terror- respond to these terrorist attacks connecting the capital Kabul with fic in winters. In February 2010, would not let such attempts suc- lences to the people of Pakistan, fairs Adviser Sartaj Aziz. He em- ist threats, while showing Afghan- on both sides in a more coordinat- the northern region and Qala-I- around 170 people were killed and ceed. and in particular to the families of phasized that Afghanistan con- istan’s readiness to collaborate with ed and effective way. Naw-Heart highway have been 125 others injured as result of av- Weesa also accused militants closed for traffic due to heavy alanches and snowstorms in the of trying to create differences snowfalls, an official said Satur- southern Salang region. Separate- among tribes and engage them in day. Gen. Mohammad Rajab, the ly, the highway of Heart-Qala-I- internal disputes in order to exploit As the US draws safety and security in-charge of Naw was also closed in Sabzak the situation and reach their nefar- Afghanistan,Tajikistan agree to form Salang Pass, told Pajhwok Afghan Pass in Badghis province by heavy ious designs. down, Afghanistan News that the Salang highway was rain and snowfall. Fakhruddin, a The governor’s claims come works to build closed as result of heavy snow- driver of the highway in a tele- after the deputy police chief of consular cooperation commission falls and storms on Friday evening. phone contact with Pajhwok said Paktia, Ibrahim Haqyar was ac- its air force He said the highway would that eight vehicles, including his, cused of having links with the Tal- KABUL : Afghanistan and Tajiki- remain shut until the snowstorms were stuck in the snow last night iban. Haqyar allegedly abandoned stan have agreed to strengthen con- slow down and the risk of ava- and the passengers were kept in a a number of border security posts sular cooperation between the two lanches removed. Up to 80 centi- nearby Afghan National Army to be captured by the rebels under neighbouring countries, a state- meters snowfall has been fallen in (ANA) base. He said the thickness a deal following clashes in which ment from the Ministry of For- the southern and 50 centimeters in of snow had reached to 80 centi- more than 10 border police were eign Affairs (MoFA) said on Sat- the eastern region of Salang, he meters in Sabzak Pass. A contact killed. Pajhwok tried to contact urday. said. The highway was once with Badghis officials for comment Haqyar and seek his comment The commitments were made blocked due to heavy snowfalls in the regard could not be estab- about the allegations but he refused during a meeting between Afghan from February 3 to 6. The Salang lished. (Pajhwok) to talk. (Pajhwok) A recent United Nations report Consular Affairs Director Mirwais found that civilian casualties in Samadi and his counterpart Mr. Afghanistan resulting from Af- Bahram Khal Nazarov, at the side- ghan-initiated airstrikes doubled line of the official visit of the Min- between 2015 and 2016, to 252. ister of Foreign Affairs to Dush- Ex-district chief injured in The American military says those anbe, the capital of Tajikistan. figures are inflated, but has begun Foreign Minister Salahuddin training a new cadre of Afghan air Rabbani had already signed an controllers who can warn Afghan agreement on consular cooperation gunmen attack in Helmand pilots of the risks of collateral with Tajik foreign minister during damage. In an email interview, Marc the visit. LASHKARGAH : Former admin- Schanz, the director of publica- Both sides emphasised the istrative chief of Nawa and Kajaki tions for the Mitchell Institute for need for strengthening consular and districts Haji Sharafuddin, has Aerospace Studies, discusses Af- legal cooperation aiming to create been wounded in gunmen attack in ghanistan’s air force. His opinions further facilities for the citizens of southern Helmand province, an are not in any way reflective of both countries and agreed to hold official said on Saturday. Deputy the policies of the Mitchell Insti- regular meetings between the rele- Police Chief Col. Guli Khan told tute. WPR: What is the make-up vant authorities for the purpose Pajhwok Afghan News Sharafud- of Afghanistan’s air force, in terms of consular consultations. In addi- din was on his way to home after of personnel and equipment, and tion, both sides agreed to sign the Friday prayer when attacked by what are the end goals for its force Memorandum of Understanding two motorcyclists. He said the at- Ghani, an eyewitness, said the two motorcyclists. Sources at the structure? ... (MoU) on the formation of joint ation commission to address all both countries in a regular and con- tackers had been identified and former district chief was on his emergency hospital said, Sahar- (WORLDPOLITICSREVIEW) consular consultation and cooper- legal and consular related issues of tinued manner. (Pajhwok) would be captured soon. Abdul way to home when attacked by afuddin was in stable condition.