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Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XI Issue No:24 Price: Afs.20

www.afghanistantimes.af www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimes www.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes WEDNESDAY . AUGUST 15. 2018 -Asad 24, 1397 HS

AT News Report istan. The fight for Ghazni began on Friday morning after the Tali- KABUL: A prominent Pakistani ban staged a ruthless attack on the senator Afrasiab Khattak said on city the night before, using civilian Tuesday that the Pakistani gov- homes and market places as their ernment was behind the terrorist shelter against Afghan armed forc- rampage and the fighting in Ghaz- es. Hundreds of assailants have ni city, describing Islamabad’s Af- been killed in a joint counteroffen- ghan policy as ‘unmitigated disas- sive of Afghan and U.S. forces. ter’. “Pakistani government needs According to security officials, to explain reports about the dead the Afghan security and defense bodies of Pakistanis coming in forces have advanced against ene- from the war in Ghazni and Paki- my positions and no sign of Tali- stani fighters getting arrested,” he ban activity was seen. The minis- said in a tweet on Tuesday. try of defense has however said “Is it the repetition of the Jala- that the battle for control of Ghazni labad fiasco in 1989? Pak Afghan will come to an end soon as armed Policy is an unmitigated disaster,” forces are steadily moving for- he said, calling on Islamabad to wards in cracking down the ene- change its policy towards Afghan- my.

AT News Report curity forces are almost in control days, the Taliban have torched different govern- of Ghazni as they push on against mental and nongovernmental institutionsand de- KABUL: The battle to retake enemy positions, said the defense stroyed communication towers. “Normalcy has Ghazni is drawing to a close as ministry spokesperson Jawid returned to some areas in the city and shops have Afghan armed forces advanced on Ghafori, affirming the onslaught reopened,” he enthused, saying the armed forces Tuesday against Taliban in most operation backed by airstrikes will would continue with intensity to clear areas where of parts of the beleaguered city and push back the rebels and disman- the Taliban still held positions. The fight went militant positions kept shrinking tle their holdouts. The Taliban on in the city’s outskirts and government forces amid a full-scale counterassault that staged an onslaught on Ghazni on held upper hand against the enemy, he insisted, began the day before, the defense Thursday night and took partial reckoning the death toll of the Taliban stood at ministry said Tuesday.Afghan se- control of the city. In the past five 326 and tens of others wounded. ... P3 UN official pays tribute to victims of terrorism KABUL: In response to an invitation from the government, a top UN official is visiting Afghanistan to pay tribute to victims of terrorism, the world body said on Tuesday.. On the first Interna- tional Day of Remembrance and Support to the Victims of Terror- ism, the head of the United Na- tions Office of Counter-Terrorism expressed solidarity with victims and survivors Under-Secretary- General Vladimir Voronkov will take part in an international conference on “Commemorating the International Day of Remem- brance of and Tribute to the Vic- tims of Terrorism”. Organised by the Afghanistan Independent Hu- man Rights Commission. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Government of I slamic Republic of Afghanistan Ministry of Energy & Water Project Coordination Unit Request for “Expression of Interest”

ProjectBackground: In accordance with the Decree 4 of the presidential office of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in view of national politics and strategy of the country during 1383, the Ministry of Energy and Water (MEW) has been established from two existing Ministries: Ministries of Energy, Water Resources, and Environment. The Government of Afghanistan has identified the rehabilitation and expansion of the country’s physical infrastructure as one of its highest priorities for the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan. As part of the basic economic infrastructure of the country, the energy sector occupies special prominence in the Government’s development plans. Several major power sector projects, funded by the National Development Budget and by international financial institutions and donors, are presently under implementation and planning under the general oversight of the Ministry of Energy and Water (MEW). The Irrigation and Restoration and Development Project Additional Financing (IRDP-AF) is a national project, implemented by the Ministry of Energy and Water and funded by the World Bank, designed to serve all major river basins in the country classified into six regions: Kabul, Jalalabad, Kandahar, Herat, Kunduz and Mazar-e-Sharif. The rehabilitation of medium and large scale irrigation schemes take place in all regions. The objectives of the IRDP to improve access to irrigation in targeted areas and strengthen water resources management and development.

Job Design: No of Vacancies One Duty Station MEW - KABUL Department Chief of offices Announcement Date 15-Aug-2018

Organization PCU / MEW Closing Date 25-Aug-2108

Project IRDP Duration One Year (Likely to be extended)

Reference No C-013-18 Extension Possibility Yes

Gender Male / Female Nationality Afghan Salary As per NTA Salary Scale Policy Grade D

Job Specifications:

No Position Title Job Description / Duties and Responsibilities Required Qualification and Experience

1 Donor relation officer · Assist the Chief of Office staff office with · Bachelor degree in Management, Deputy Minister (Energy and Water) in all International Relations, Public administrative matters including but not Administration or similar limited to; drafting correspondences, discipline, with 4 years related taking notes in meetings, follow up with work experience. the relevant individuals and entities. · Builds and maintains close working · Basic knowledge of computer and relationship with Donors. information technology (Ms. Word, Ms. Excel, Ms. Power · Creates, manages and maintains Point, Inter net browsing and documentation related to donor meetings email using) from a recognized and requests. institute · Write the report of Meetings and Minutes of Meetings for administrative use and · Good interpersonal skill; Strong Media coverage. communication skill; · Prepares documents including proposals, · Good in written and spoken briefing notes, training documents, English, Pashto and Dari minutes, memorandums and other related languages; materials · Keep tracks of all correspondence and written communication related to the Deputy Ministers. · Facilitate meeting supplies and arrange meetings and seminars in which Deputy Ministers will attend. · Follow-up on administrative assignments given by the Chief of Staff Office Deputy Minister, with the relevant departments, advisors, and other individuals, · File all administrative documents related of the Deputy Ministers with Chief of staff Office, · Perform other related tasks assigned by the Chief of Staff Office with Deputy Minister; · The Donor relation officer will report to the Deputy Minister and Chief of staff Office or anyone assigned by him.

Submission Guideline: The Project Coordination Unit (PCU) of Project: Irrigation Restoration and Development Project (IRDP) under Ministry of Energy and water now invites National eligible consultants to indicate their interest. Interested candidates should send their CV, including employment records, description of similar assignments carried out, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills etc viae-mail to the following email clearly indicate the title of the position and vacancy announcement number in the subject line, Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Only short-listed candidates will contact for a written test. Submission Emails: Eng. Nasir Ahmad ”Ahadi” Acting Director of Project Coordination Unit PCU Ministry of Energy and Water Mobile: 0700686110 Email address: [email protected] Copy to:[email protected] and [email protected] WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

s a result of strict mon itoring of contracts for transporting pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, $1.6 million has been saved, the Na- tional Procurement Commission (NPC) said on Tuesday. Presi- dent Ashraf Ghani has tasked a committee, headed by NPC Sec- retary Ahmad Bilal Qarizada, to ensure quality food, health services, transportation and residen- tial facilities for the pilgrims. In a statement, the commission said the delegation had already flown to Saudi Arabia to monitor services for the Afghan pilgrims. The delegation visited residences, kitchens, healthcare centres and transportation facilities and held discussion with contractors on he Ministry of Mines and TAPI project, saying work on the projects related to TAPI were un- dination committee so that all sides the issues being faced by Afghan Petroleum on Monday TAPI project was going at a nor- derway in Herat province, which could work with zeal and interest. pilgrims in Makkah and Madina. denied work on the multi mal pace. She said there were some included demining, land acquisi- He expressed optimism that the The NPC team also met the del- billion Turkmenistan-Af- issues in the land acquisition but tion, environmental protection and project was going at best pace. egation of Hajj and Religious Af- ghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) steps were being taken to resolve surveys. Abdul Hadi Hedayati, deputy head fairs Ministry in Saudi Arabia and gas pipeline related projects has the issue. She insisted work on the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Telecommunication and In- discussed the pilgrims’ prob- been delayed. TAPI project has not been Abdullah Abdullah expressed sat- formation Technology (CIT), lems. The NPC delegation has number of Ghazni residents said Taliban Acting Mines Minister Nar- stopped. She said companies in- isfaction over the ongoing TAPI briefed the meeting regarding a dig- helped save $1.6 million as a re- fighters have set fire to large parts of the gis Nehan said this to a meeting of volved in the projects had been projects and asked the authorities ital CASA-1000 project and sult of strict scrutiny of Hajj-re- city, including civilian homes, and are the Council of Ministers sub-eco- directed to recruit workers from concerned to implement the claimed its implementation would lated contracts. (Pajhwok) nomic committee chaired by Chief areas where the project was being projects in coordination. bring the internet price down by stealing their possessions. Executive Officer (CEO), a state- implemented and consider recruit- The CEO also asked the min- half. The official also informed the ment from the CEO office said. ment of women, repatriates and istry of mines to know the price meeting regarding evaluation of A number of Ghazni residents who of soldiers and civilians also lay Nehan briefed the meeting re- needy people as well, if required. of gas provided to Afghanistan CIT law and code of conduct. fled the city in the past few days on the streets of the city for days garding progress on the ongoing She said currently five from the project and create a coor- (Pajhwok) and made their way to Kabul said as people were too afraid to re- the situation in the province was trieve them. “They (Taliban) steal unbearable and that the Taliban had people’s belongings. They were cut their electricity and water sup- entering people’s houses and tak- plies. The residents said Taliban ing food,” a resident of Ghazni said. fighters also set fire to many build- Residents also said the people in ings in the city as well as houses the city are running out of food – and that residents were in a des- this in addition to not having con- perate situation. tact with the rest of the country as Fatima, one resident, fled with cellphone services have been dis- her family and have sought refuge connected. For many Kabul resi- in Kabul. She said to get to Kabul dents, they are also extremely they had to travel through extreme- worried about their friends and rel- ly dangerous areas where security atives in Ghazni. “We do not know forces and Taliban were embroiled about our relatives. Right now two inistry of Public in heavy clashes. Fatima said they of our family members are miss- Works (MoPW) has JALALABAD: Security forces spent two days in the city amid ing. They came with us last week seized timber wood worth mil- signed contracts for ongoing clashes and had neither from Ghazni, but only half the lions of afghanis in eastern Nan- building a bridge in Takhar water nor electricity. way, then they disappeared. We garhar province during a special province and reconstruct- According to her, two of her do not know whether they went operation in Khewa district on ing Salang Highway – sons were killed a while back in a back to Ghazni, came to Kabul or Tuesday. The governor, the po- linking Kabul with northern bomb blast and now her other son have been taken away by Taliban,” lice chief and other security offi- EU and Norway heads of mission in Afghanistan said they expect the law part of the country. is still in Ghazni city. She said she one Ghazni resident in Kabul said. cials visited Badyali and Ab- to follow its course in the case of Gen Abdul Rashid Dostum. is extremely worried about him. In the meantime a number of fe- dulkhe areas of the district where Salang Highway will be recon- “Our city has burned down, male civil rights activists on Mon- our homes have burned down, and day held a sit-in protest in busy the raids were conducted two The ambassadors of European chi, the former governor of Jaw- be above the law. It is important structed – beginning from Chokak days ago. Governor Hayatullah village until Freshtagan Bridge in we have lost everything. What do Darulaman Road, close to Deh Union (EU) and Norway in Kabul zjan province. According to the that all Afghans continue to work we need to do for government to Mazang circle, in Kabul city to Hayat said the operation was said in a joint statement on Mon- statement, as Dostum has returned together to promote peace, stabil- Baghlan province with an esti- launched after receiving several mated length of 11 kilometers and hear our voices?” asked Fatima. protest against the ongoing battle day that the case of the First Vice home from Turkey, the issues ity and democracy throughout the According to residents, the bodies in Ghazni city. (TOLONews) complaints through the 160 hel- President General Abdul Rashid around his case should be cleared country, based on full respect for width of 11 meters. The Minis- pline about illegal trafficking of Dostum should be concluded up. The EU and Norway said they the rule of law by all citizens,” read ter of Public Works Yama Yari timber. He said the operation was through legal channels since he has expect the law to follow its course. the statement. Dostum spent 14 said that the project will cost launched in cooperation with Af- returned to Afghanistan. The state- The statement said no one should months in Turkey only to return about 122 million AFN and will ghan security forces in Khewa ment said they expect the conclu- be above the law and that it is im- to Afghanistan last month. He was be completed in six months. The district two days ago and they sion of legal proceedings against portant that all Afghans work for accused of kidnapping and torture highway – passing through seized a truckload of timber and Dostum who has been accused of peace, stability and democracy in in 2016 and of ordering his guards treacherous mountains in Parwan arrested the driver, but the per- sexual assault against Ahmad Es- light of the law. “Nobody should to sexually assault Eshchi. and Baghlan provinces – con- son behind the trafficking was on nects nine provinces with the the run. He added some timber capital Kabul. In the winter sea- wood had been skillfully hidden son, traveling the highway is dan- in grasses in a house in Abdulkhel gerous for passengers due to Police detained two suspects in connection area. A large amount of timber was heavy snow and cold weather. with the incident and a manhunt was underway found in another house in Bady- “Little time left for the winter ali area, Hayat said and warned season and we are hopeful the for the two others. The detainees were close rela- of legal action against anyone in- highway get reconstructed so that tives of the victims. volved in illegal smuggling of tim- the issues of people could be ber. Nangarhar police chief Brig. solved in the winter,” said MP ZARANJ: Three members of a injured in the incident, but he was Gen. Ghulam Sanayee Stanikzai Mohammad Azim Mohseni. The family including two children have currently under treatment and his said some fundamental steps head of the contracted firm, Mu- been killed as a result of personal condition was said to be stable, he were being taken to check timber jahid Mujahid, meanwhile, said enmity in the capital of southwest- said. Hashemi said four people smuggling. He urged people to Local officials in the northern prov- over 40 security force members have been ongoing for two days that they are committed to re- ern Nimroz province, officials said were involved in the triple murder. report to police about suspicious ince of Faryab have confirmed to have surrendered to the Taliban between the security forces and the pairing the highway on its sched- Tuesday. Police detained two suspects activities, corruption, illegal traf- TOLOnews that Afghan troops after they received no help nor Taliban in Ghormach, 43 security uled time and with high quality. Col. Mohammad Sadiq in connection with the incident and ficking of timer or any other anti- have surrendered to the Taliban ammunition supplies despite re- members have been killed and In addition, the Ministry of Pub- Hashemi, Nimroz crime branch a manhunt was underway for the government movements. Talibjan, after their base -called Chenayee- peated requests. wounded and 17 were taken hos- lic Works said that it will build chief, told Pajhwok Afghan News two others. The detainees were a resident of Badyali area, said ha - fell to the Taliban in Ghorm- Mohammad Tahir Rahmani, tage by the Taliban in this time. Hazrat Sultan Bridge in Ishka- that the victims were from the same close relatives of the victims. that insurgents, government offi- ach district in the province. head of Faryab provincial council Security officials have not yet mesh district of northern Takhar family and they included two chil- Hashemi said the victims and cials and powerful figures had The base reportedly remained has also confirmed that the troops commented on the collapse of province, adding that the con- dren aged between six and four the murderers were residents of been smuggling timber over the under Taliban siege for 48 hours. surrendered. Chenayeeha base to the Taliban. tract of the project has been years and a woman. Khak-i-Safid district of Farah prov- past three years. (Pajhwok) According to local officials, Reports say that fierce battles (TOLONews) signed with a private. (ATN) A man of the same family was ince. (Pajhwok) Armed forces advance in Ghazni as Taliban...

...P1 He said the ANDSF death toll was 100 including 70 police personnel and 30 army soldiers. Also 30 to 40 civilians had losttheir lives during the clashes in Ghazni city. Ghazni-Kandahar highway remained close because of the battle in Qarabagh area, he said, pledging that Afghan forces will handle it soon.

...P12 and shops are closed in the colleagues. Eight surgeons are cur- not been confirmed by authorities. contested areas. In villages outside rently working in the hospital’s op- Families are reportedly also try- the city, shops are reportedly eration theatre. Due to ongoing ing to leave the city via smaller open, with long lines of people and fighting, reports have been received roads through the mountains. On increased prices for food and wa- that residents are unable to safely Monday morning, reports were ter. Limited telecommunications bring injured persons to the hos- received from authorities of about have hindered clarity over the on- pital, indicating that the number 70 displaced people arriving in going contest for Ghazni City, al- of people requiring emergency Gardez, Paktia. though the Taliban reportedly has medical treatment may rise over There is no UN presence in control over many strategic parts the coming days Medication and Ghazni City but between 25-30 of the city. Families have report- medical supplies at the hospital NGOs implement humanitarian edly taken shelter in their houses are reportedly running low al- programmes in the province and and are unable to leave their homes, though some supplies, including are on standby to respond once even to get water from wells and body bags, have been received. the security situation allows. fountains. Food is reportedly run- The hospital is powered by Existing stockpiles are suffi- ning low. There are reports of fam- one generator but fuel is difficult cient to facilitate an immediate re- ilies moving from their homes in to obtain since pump stations are sponse in Ghazni City and include the outskirts of the city to sur- closed. Yesterday, an international emergency household items for rounding villages, sheltering with organization was able to deliver a more than 6,000 people, 400 fam- relatives. The Ghazni main hospi- sufficient amount of fuel to enable ily tents, cash assistance for 9,800 tal is reportedly overwhelmed by the hospital to run for the next people and nearly 140 MT of food the high number of casualties ar- three to four days. to support 4,200 people for one riving. Off-duty health staff in ac- Initial reports of large numbers month. Assessment teams have cessible areas of the city have been of civilians fleeing the city to neigh- already been deployed to Wardak transferred to the hospital in am- boring Wardak Province on Friday province to assess displaced fam- bulances to support their on-duty via the embattled Highway 1 have ilies. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Congress dares PMto Five k illed in C h a r s a d d a c la s h dissolveLok Sabha, hold over m ot or b ik e early polls withstates Madhya Pradesh will have to be conducted before the terms of these assemblies end. “There is only one way of holding simultaneous elections. The prime minister should dissolve the Lok Sabha and hold polls along with the four state assembly elections,” Gehlot told a press conference. “The Con- gress will welcome it. We are prepared,” he said. Gehlot’s comments come a day after BJP pres- Battagram police said on Tuesday that five people ident Amit Shah made a pitch for had been killed after rivals exchanged fire at a Char- holding elections to 12 state as- sadda jirga convened over a Saturday motorbike semblies including the present four accident that left a child injured. An official said Amid talks of simultaneous polls, another three had been injured in the incident. Po- the Congress on Tuesday dared along with 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Prime Minister Narendra Modi to The former Rajasthan chief minis- lice said four of the five killed were from one fam- dissolve the Lok Sabha early and ter said it will be in the “best inter- ily. Gunmen loot jewellery market in Taxila announce general elections along est of the country to dissolve the The official said tempers had frayed after pro- with polls in four states where the Lok Sabha early, given the all-per- ceedings commenced on Monday. He said Fasee- terms of the assemblies end this vasive atmosphere of fear, intoler- hullah and Nazim Manzoor had exchanged fire af- year. Congress general secretary ance and intimidation”. “The Con- ter. 22-year-old robber shot dead by citizen in Kara- Ashok Gehlot said postponing the gress will not only welcome an chi’s Clifton area Police said the injured had been upcoming state assembly elections early Lok Sabha election, we are taken to a Peshawar hospital. and conducting these with Lok all geared to fight the BJP and elim- Bodies of those killed had been handed over to Sabha polls in 2019 is “not possi- inate it,” he said. The Congress al- their kin post autopsy. An FIR of the incident has ble” under the Constitution or the leged that the BJP’s intentions be- been registered, the official said. Police have been law. He said elections in Mizoram, hind the ‘one nation, one election’ striving to nab the absconding suspects. Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and debate were not clean. (Tribune)

(Project Coordination Unit) Irrigation Restoration and Development Project NATIONALCOMPETITIVEBIDDING Invitation for Bids (IFB) For Procurement of Works forInstallation of 3 AHS including guard rooms in Kabul River Basin Invitation for Bid No: MEW-REF-B113-LOT-1 Date:15 August-2018 1. This Invitation for Bids follows the General Procurement Notice for this Project that appeared in Development Business published on 11 January 2011. 2.The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Ministry of Energy and Water Irrigation Restoration Development Project (IRDP) has applied for a grant from the International Development Association (IDA) and Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) toward the cost of Irrigation Restoration and Development Project, and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to payments under the Contract for the Sub project packages/lots given in para 3 below. 3. The Project Coordination Unit, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Energy & Water, now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the following package/lots The construction period is as mentioned against each lot which includes slack period of 3 months for flood/adverse weather conditions and resolving community/farmers needs/disputes etc.

Package ID No &Name Lot No Lot Description Completion (ID) Period (in months) Installation of 3 AHS Lot-1 Installation of 3 AHS including guard 12 including guard rooms rooms in Noristan,Ghazni, and in Kabul River Basin Paktika province Invitation for Bid No: MEW-REF-B113- LOT-1 The bidders, at their option, may bid for one or more lots under a package. Each lot will be evaluated separately and the contracts will be awarded accordingly. 4. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the World Bank’s Guidelines: Procurement under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits, dated January 2011 and revised in July 2014and is open to all bidders from Eligible Source Countries as defined in the Bidding Documents. 5. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from Procurement Section, (email:[email protected] Mobile No: +93(0)700686110), Project Coordination Unit, Main office, Ministry of Energy and Water (MEW) and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below from 8:00 to 16:30Hrs from Saturday to Wednesday (Except public holidays). 6. Qualifications requirements include: (a) The minimum (b) Experience as prime (c) Liquid assets and/or required annual volume contractor in the credit facilities, net of other Requirement---> of construction work construction of at least contractual commitments Lot Lot I for the successful one works of nature and and exclusive of any No bidder in any of the last complexity equivalent to advance payments which five years (in AFN) this work during the last may be made under the five (5) years (in AFN). Contract (in Million AFN). 1 Lot-1 6 Million 3 Million 1.2 Million (d) Proposals for the timely acquisition (own, lease, hire, etc.) of the essential equipment as given in the bidding document. (e) Contract Manager with five years’ experience in works of an equivalent nature and volume, including no less than three years as Manager.

For detailed post qualification verification please refer to Section I - Instructions to Bidders and Section II- Bid Data Sheet of the bidding documents. A margin of preference for eligible national contractors/joint ventures shall not be applied. 7. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be purchased by interested bidders on the submission of a written Application to the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of 2,500 AFN. The method of payment will be Cash/Direct Payment. The Bidding Documents shall be collected by the bidders from the address below. 8. The bidders or their authorized representatives are invited to attend a pre-bid meeting which will take place on05-August-18 at 10 AM in the meeting room (Basement) at the address given below to explain the procedure of proper preparation and submission of bid, clarify issues and to answer questions on any matter that may be raised at that stage. 9. Bids must be delivered to the address below at or before 10 AM of 17- Sep-2018(if this date is announced an official holiday, then bids must be submitted next working day at the same time and venue). Electronic bidding shall not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened physically in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below at 10 AM of 17- Sep-2018 10. All bids shall be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of amounts under: 11.The address referred to above is: Lot No: Minimum Required Amount Eng. Nasir Ahmad “Ahadi” 1 240,000 Afghanis or equivalent Acting Director and Procurement officer, Project Coordination Unit Ministry of Energy and Water, DarulAman Road, Kabul Email:[email protected] ;Mobile No:+93(0)700686110), WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Russia shoots Mattis blames down five ‘power-hungry, oppressive’ militant dr ones Venezuela for refugee crisis near Syr ia’s Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Tuesday cast Venezuela’s ongo- Hmeimim air base ing wave of 1 million refugees fleeing across its borders so far as a destabilizing, anti-democratic force in South America, but he stopped short of offering military assistance to what he defined as a regional crisis. “We stand with Brazil and others in the region against this instability that is crossing borders, just as we stand with the people of Vene- zuela, in the midst of the tragedy forced on them by a power-hungry, oppressive regime that forces refugees into Brazil, Colom- bia, and elsewhere,” Mattis said at Brazil’s War College in the first leg of a four-nation tour to promote closer ties with South Amer- The Russian military forces have the air defense systems of the ica’s four leading civilian con- intercepted and targeted five un- Hmeimim airbase detected an aeri- trolled militaries — those of Ar- manned aerial vehicles as they were al drone launched from the territo- gentina, Brazil, Chile and Colom- flying in the skies near its strategic ry controlled by illegal armed bia. The Pentagon has mostly Hmeimim airbase in Syria's west- groups in the north of Latakia prov- avoided responding to the out- ern coastal province of Latakia. ince,” the Russian Center for Syr- pouring of Venezuelans fleeing Syria’s official news agency SANA ian Reconciliation said in a state- food and medicine shortages. reported that the reconnaissance ment. Russia says its military has drones were hit mid-air and at a downed a drone flying near Syr- The United States' unilateral and against Iran. In other words, magazine, the first part of the US widespread impact of these sanc- safe distance from the base on ia’s Hmeimim airbase. Syria has British expats secondary sanctions against Iran Trump has lost one of the most sanctions, which was abolished tions on its economy through cri- Monday evening. There were no been gripped by foreign-backed have been widely reflected in in- important economic deterrent under the terms of the 2015 nucle- sis management and effective con- reports of causalities or material militancy since March 2011. The ternational media. Meanwhile, against Iran, which is the "consen- ar deal, were re-imposed on Iran sultation with other international damage in the area. The develop- Syrian government says the Israe- in EU launch many Western analysts believe sus over Iran's sanctions". On the after the U.S. withdrawal from the players. The Axios writes "Presi- ment came only a day after Rus- li regime and its Western and re- that the the international system other hand, Trump is currently and This is while China is the top con- dent Trump’s decision to unilater- sian air defenses at Hmeimim air gional allies are aiding Takfiri ter- Brexit legal isn't going to comply with Wash- simultaneously leading the trade sumer of Iranian oil and thus ben- ally withdraw from the Iran nucle- base shot down two combat drones rorist groups that are wreaking ington's sanctions against Tehran, war with countries such as China efits most from this conditions. On ar deal throws a new degree of un- launched by foreign-sponsored havoc in the country. Russia has challenge and this will reduce the impact of and Canada, and even the Europe- the other hand, Washington's sanc- certainty into global oil markets Takfiri militants operating in Syr- been helping Syrian forces in on- these sanctions on our country. On an Union. Under such circum- tions on companies and countries and poses a stark dilemma for US ia's de-escalation zone of Idlib. The going battles across the conflict- the other hand, the United States' stances, the President of the Unit- that do business with Iran will hit foreign policy. The Trump admin- head of the Russian Center for plagued Arab country. The Rus- British expatriates have launched unilateral insistence on the resump- ed States has basically lost his con- European firms the hardest. That istration's efforts to drastically re- Syrian Reconciliation, Major Gen- sian military assistance, which be- a fresh legal challenge against the tion of sanctions against Iran indi- trol over the situation. This is one leaves room for China and Russia, duce Iran’s oil exports might risk a eral Alexei Tsygankov, said the in- gan in September 2015 at the offi- 2016 referendum, arguing that cates that Donald Trump's stands of the main reasons for Trump's both well-positioned to evade US massive blow to US consumers and cident resulted in no casualties or cial request of the Syrian govern- the result has been invalidated alone in opposing Iran. Recently insistence on holding direct talks sanctions, to strike deals with Iran. allies. If Trump's “maximum pres- material damage, and the opera- ment, has proved effective as Syr- by the Electoral Commission’s news sources have explicitly an- with Iran at any time and without The fact is that one of Trump's sure” campaign succeeds, the vol- tions at the base were not disrupt- ians continue to recapture key ar- ruling on leave campaign spend- nounced that imports of Indian and preconditions. A brief review on main goals of economic confronta- atile and rising gasoline prices that ed. Late last week, the Russian eas from Daesh and other terrorist ing. The judicial review against Chinese oil from Iran have risen international analysts' argumenta- tion with Iran was to put the Is- result could finally dent his ap- military announced that its forces groups across the country with the the prime minister, Theresa despite sanctions and threats tions could draw a clearer picture lamic Republic of Iran under con- proval ratings, even among hard- in Syria had downed a drone fly- backing of Russian air cover. On May, has been submitted to the posed by Washington. Also, coun- of the whirl which Trump had been stant pressure. However, it seems line supporters, and spark a global ing near Hmeimim airbase. Russian May 21, the General Command of high court in London by the UK tries like Turkey and even some stuck in. The Axios, for instance, that Trump has made a terrible recession. It continues; "The media outlets reported that the the Syrian Army and Armed Forc- in EU Challenge group, which European players have announced points to some tangible subjects mistake in this regard! It should Trump administration has declared drone, launched from territory con- es announced in a statement that represents Britons living in that they will not adhere to the about the United States' failure to not be forgotten that the Islamic that it wants Iran’s oil customers trolled by Takfiri militants, had complete security was restored to France, Italy and Spain. It ar- Trump's government sanctions sanction Iran. According to this Republic of Iran can prevent the to “go to zero” by November 4. been shut down after it targeted Damascus and its countryside af- gues that the recent Electoral the military site. “On August 9, ter al-Hajar al-Aswad district. Commission findings on Be- Leave and Vote Leave – which resulted in two officials being reported to the police and punitive fines being imposed – means that the referendum to leave the EU was not a lawful, fair or free vote. The government is resist- ing the action on the grounds that it is out of time and that a similar challenge has already been dismissed. Nearly 80% of the estimated 1 to 2 million Britons living overseas in EU countries are of working age or younger. Many fear Brexit will threaten their livelihoods and make it far harder to travel across the conti- nent. The expatriate claimants are represented by Croft Solici- tors, Patrick Green QC and Jes- Up to 80 cars were set on fire over- sica Simor QC, all of whom act- night across western Sweden by ed for successful parties in the masked vandals, police said Tues- article 50 legal case at the su- Zimbabwe's president has called should never be deterred by tem- day, in what they suspect was a preme court. They maintain the on the troubled country to unite porary setbacks or regrettable coordinated attack weeks before a legal claim is not out of time be- and "put the election period be- events which we encounter in our general election. Most of the cars cause the Electoral Commission hind us and embrace the future" in course to build an open, free and were burned at around 20 locations only recently, in July, found that his first public address since win- democratic and prosperous Zim- in Sweden's second largest city of BeLeave spent £675,000, which ning disputed elections. President babwe," said Mnangagwa, who Gothenburg late Monday. Author- should have been declared. Emmerson Mnangagwa was was cheered on by supporters ities said two suspects aged be- speaking on the Heroes' Day holi- chanting his election campaign slo- tween 16 and 21 have been arrest- day which commemorates the gans. "The time for politics is over ed so far in Gothenburg and would lives of those who died in this . let us therefore march forward in be questioned on Tuesday. Police 2 injured southern African country's 1970s peace, harmony and love," said said they believe the attacks were war against white minority rule. Mnangagwa, an ex-vice president organized on social media. No one over Libya Mnangagwa was to have been in- and longtime enforcer of former was injured in the car blazes. augurated Sunday but the swear- president Robert Mugabe, who "We've never seen this many cars constitution ing in ceremony was postponed resigned in November after pres- set on fire before," Hans Lippens, because of the legal challenge to sure from the military. The Zim- police spokesman in western Swe- voting the election results lodged by the babwe Electoral Commission has den, told AFP. The incident trig- main opposition MDC party at said Mnangagwa and the ruling gered outrage among Swedish pol- coordinated, almost like a military alone, such crimes happen almost erates, wrote on his Facebook ac- session the Constitutional Court. The July ZANU-PF party won the coun- iticians who are busy campaigning operation." Sweden's Prime Min- on a daily basis, usually attributed count. Last year in February, two 30 vote was largely peaceful and try's first election without Mugabe for the September 9 general elec- ister Stefan Lofven gestures as he to disadvantaged youths. Last days after US President Donald many had hoped it would usher in on the ballot. Mnangagwa won tion. "I'm furious. My question to addresses a press conference at year, 1,457 cars were "deliberate- Trump's baffling comments link- Two people were injured, includ- a new era for Zimbabwe but the 50.8 percent of the vote, said the (the perpetrators) is: what the hell The Europa building in Brussels ly" set on fire across Sweden, coming crime to immigration in Swe- ing a Libyan lawmaker, on Tues- capital was rocked by post-elec- commission. But in their court are you doing?" Social Democratic on June 29, 2018, on the sidelines pared to 1,641 in 2016, according den, riots broke out in the immi- day ahead of a session to vote tion protests in which the military challenge to Mnangagwa's win, op- Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told of the European Union leaders' to the Swedish Civil Contingen- grant-heavy northern Stockholm public broadcaster Swedish Radio summit, without Britain, to dis- cies Agency's figures. suburb of Rinkeby. Dozens of on whether or not to hold a pop- opened fire, killing six people. position lawyers allege "gross Mnangagwa blamed the opposi- mathematical errors" and call for a on Tuesday. "You're ruining things cuss Brexit and eurozone reforms. "Sweden has tolerated this for youths clashed with police after ular referendum on a new con- tion for the shooting deaths, say- fresh vote or a declaration that main for yourselves, your parents and (Photo by AFP) too long. This must end now," Ulf they arrested a suspected drug deal- stitution, according to local me- ing they had incited violence. He, challenger Nelson Chamisa was the your neighborhoods," Lofven said, Cars set ablaze is common in Kristersson, leader of the conser- er in Rinkeby. The rioters threw dia. The private Al Ahrar TV however, urged reconciliation. "We winner. adding the incident "looked very Sweden. In Stockholm's suburbs vative opposition party, the Mod- stones at police. channel said gunfire was heard outside a hall where the session was scheduled to be held, and a lawmaker was injured, without At least 23 people giving further details. The local al-Wasat news portal said the gunfire took place during an killed, 14 injured in armed clash between members of the Libyan Presidential Guard and MPs opposing a bill for Ecuador bus crash holding the constitutional refer- A bridge over an industrial area in endum. The portal, citing a se- the Italian city of Genova partial- curity source, said a lawmaker ly collapsed during a sudden and was slightly injured in the clash. violent storm on Tuesday, leaving An officer was also injured in vehicles crushed in the rubble below. The death toll in has gone up the violence. A UN-proposed to at least 30, Italy’s Deputy PM roadmap for Libya, unveiled ear- Matteo Salvini said. The current lier this year, calls for presiden- number of fatalities in the Moran- tial and parliamentary elections di Bridge collapse is expected to and a popular referendum on a rise "significantly," the governor of new national charter. Libya has Liguria region around Genoa been dogged by turmoil since shared. "It's not acceptable that 2011, when a bloody NATO- such an important bridge... was not built to avoid this kind of collapse," backed uprising led to the death Deputy Transport Minister of strongman Muammar Gadd- Edoardo Rixi said on SkyNews24, afi after more than four decades speaking from Genoa. The disas- At least 23 people died and anoth- man’s curve at about 3am on Tues- in power. Since then, Libya’s ter occurred on a highway that con- er 14 were injured when a long- day. Quito district security secre- stark political divisions have nects Italy to France and other or mountains. "I'm following with way that collapsed was elevated al zone. Firefighters said that there distance bus overturned on a high- tary Juan Zapata said that Colom- yielded two rival seats of power vacation resorts on the eve of a great apprehension what has hap- over a river and a portion of the are concerns about gas lines. Pho- way near Ecuador’s capital, AP bian and Venezuelan nationals are -- one in Tobruk and another in major Italian holiday on Wednes- pened in Genoa, which appears to city of Genoa. The private broad- tos published by ANSA on its reports, citing local officials. The among the dead. According to Ec- day, Ferragosto, and traffic would Tripoli -- and a host of heavily- be an immense tragedy," transport caster Sky TG24 said that a 200- website showed a huge gulf be- Colombian-registered bus was trav- uador’s emergency response agen- have been heavier than usual as minister Danilo Toninelli tweeted. metre section of the Morandi tween two sections of the bridge. eling to Quito and hit another ve- cy, the bus overturned after run- armed militia groups. many Italians travelled to beaches The section of the toll motor- Bridge collapsed over an industri- (BBC) hicle in an area known as dead ning into a smaller vehicle. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

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

AFGHANISTAN TIMES Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.afghanistantimes.af Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Advisory editorial board Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir Graphic-Designers: Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press The constitution says

Article 79: During the recess of the House of Representatives, the Government shall, in case of an immediate need, issue legislative decrees, except in matters related to budget and financial affairs. Legislative decrees, after endorsement by the President, shall acquire the force of law. Legislative decrees shall be presented to the National Assembly within thirty days of convening its first session, and if rejected by the National Assem- bly, they become void.

This month, a year ago, US army and Inter-Services Intelli- cused terrorist group Tehreek- There were several mistakes the President Donald Trump an- gence (ISI). Rawalpindi does i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), was US made during those negoti- nounced his administration’s not like direct US-Taliban talks killed in a joint US-Afghanistan ations. One of them was exces- Afghanistan strategy in a but Raphel’s presence gives operation. The election victo- sive reliance on similar back- speech in Arlington, Virginia. the Pakistani generals the nec- ry of Imran Khan—known for channel efforts, led by people Trump admitted that his initial essary confidence. Why did his sympathetic views towards contracted from outside the instinct was to pull out of what US patience wear out so quick- the Taliban—has also given primary diplomatic and intelli- was already by then a 16-year- ly after announcing its new rise to the hope that the new gence institutions. The other old war. However, he under- strategy? The fatigue with the leader can deliver the Taliban was trusting the Pakistani army stood that an immediate with- war is real. Moreover, the to the negotiating table in re- during the process. It is now drawal would not provide “an chances of an American victo- turn for the US facilitating an known that the time when Pa- honourable and enduring out- ry look slim with the kind of re- IMF (International Monetary kistani army chief General Ash- he recent intensive fighting in Ghazni city, a strategic urban come worthy of the tremendous sources Washington is willing Fund) bailout of Pakistan’s col- faq Parvez Kayani was negoti- center less than 100 miles from the capital, Kabul, besides sacrifices that have been to commit. The back-channel lapsing economy. According to ating on behalf of Taliban emir martyring of dozens of Afghan soldiers and police offic- made”. Trump decided to com- was initiated in November it- the The Daily Beast report, the Mullah Omar, the latter was ac- mit the US to the battle without self. This implies that the new Taliban has grown flexible in its tually on his deathbed. ers, it has also heavily punched people in embattled city by scar- the Barack Obama-style with- strategy was more of a signal- demands. It is willing to, the Another persistent problem city of food. It also cut communications and severing the main drawal timelines. Even as his ling exercise than a commitment report claims, countenance the has been the US tendency to speech was being widely pillo- to re-energize the fight against presence of American troops in distract itself from its own goals highway from Kabul to the south and beyond. Almost half of ried in Washington, there was the Taliban. That the back- Afghanistan provided an Af- in Afghanistan. This started connectivity to other provinces has been closed, and passengers also a view, notably in India, channel has come out into the ghan government in the future pretty early when the war in Iraq that Trump’s strategy deserved open now is also an indication with Taliban representation al- began to consume the George stranded in the roads and highways for around four days. Now a fair chance. A year later, it ap- of some optimism on the part lows that. However, one should W. Bush administration and situation in the city is quite well and highways reopened for pears that Trump is unwilling of the protagonists involved. not get too ahead of oneself. Afghanistan fell by the way- to give a fair chance to his own In June, Afghan President The Taliban is still not willing side. The story will be the same traffic. But imagine those four days when Taliban insurgents were strategy, announced after Ashraf Ghani declared a unilat- to talk to the Ghani govern- if Trump wilfully forgets his entering to civilian houses, forcing them to do something against much deliberation. According eral ceasefire against the Tali- ment; it considers Ghani to be own speech made a year ago. to a recently published report ban ahead of Eid ul-Fitr. The an American puppet. It has, in Speaking to The New York their well or even being killed at their hand. Very difficult to in The Daily Beast, the US has initiative was backed by Gen- fact, gone on the offensive with Times, David Sedney, a former realize sufferings that Ghazni people went though. So many ca- once again opened back-chan- eral John Nicholson, the com- the latest attack in Ghazni. The deputy assistant secretary of nel talks with the Taliban. The mander of Nato (North Atlan- US is trying to thread a needle defence, posited it accurately tastrophes were there as beside the sounds of rockets, and fir- talks on the US side are being tic Treaty Organization) forces when it maintains that the ini- (goo.gl/GFi7qX) when he ings, they have also gone through shortage of food, water and led by Robin Raphel and Chris- in Afghanistan. The Taliban tial US-Taliban “talks” are dif- blamed the lack of patience and topher Kolenda. Raphel is soon reciprocated the gesture. ferent from, and a predecessor a “reflex impulse” to judge the medicine. The most tragedy one was in form of human as the known for her sympathetic Later in June, Mullah Fazlull- to, Kabul-Taliban “negotia- new strategy as doomed so fighting has reportedly resulted in 110 to 150 civilian casualties. views towards the Pakistani ah, the chief of Pakistan-fo- tions”. soon after it began. However, the number still need to be verified as the wholly picture of fighting is projecting absolutely a humanitarian tragedy that needs for a comprehensive probe. Limited telecommunication has also hindered clarity over the ongoing contest for city. In that situation, it is not hard but imposable for residents to go out for essential needs or even to get water from wells and fountains. At the same time, food has been reportedly running low. Lots of Ghazni residents have also displaced, adding to the already highest figure of Internal Displace People (IDP). It is a fact that Afghans are facing a very coward enemy with overtly and covertly backing from Pakistan—a neighboring state and the godfather of the Taliban and over 20 other militant outfits. A most powerful Pakistani politician, Afrasiab Khattak revealed a fact about Ghazni profound fighting, asking Pakistan for expla- nation over dead bodies coming in from battlefield. “Pak govt needs to explain reports about the dead bodies of Pakistani coming in from the war in Ghazni and Pak fighters getting arrested. It is the repetition of the Jalalabad fiasco in 1989? Pak Afghan Policy is an unmitigated disaster. CHANGE IT,” Khattak twit- ted. So this is the whole history. Our defense minister said Paki- stan fighters, beside Chechen and Arab, are supporting Taliban in the battleground. Now this will test responsibility of international community, and especially the United Nation Security Coun- cil (UNSC) to what extent they will go to castigate Pakistan for its lending support to the militants. The verity of UNSC and the globe is at stake. 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 Media International Organization $240 per year organizations and the number of copies you want. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By Robert D. Kaplan

C. J. Chivers, a senior writer for The New York Times and a former Marine infantry officer, begins his new book with a description of an American weapon, equipped with GPS sensors and a guidance system, hitting “precisely the wrong place” and killing and mutilating a family of women and children on the Afghan steppe as a conse- quence. But Chivers’s narrative has only begun to slam you in the gut; later on, the author captures the psychological effect the errant bomb has on the Marines at the scene. Indeed, because of the way the stories and characters spool into one another with mathematical intensity, and the second-by- second in-your-face descriptions of prolonged battles from a ser- geant’s eye view, “The Fighters: Americans in Combat in Afghani- stan and Iraq” could be the most powerful indictment yet of Amer- ica’s recent Middle East wars. Chivers is interested in the chem- Soldiers mourn fallen comrades at a memorial service in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, in istry between platoons and com- 2012.CreditBryan Denton for The New York Times panies, not that between battalions and brigades: In other words, this er, that even the grunts can see ers has reconstructed the moment- knew he had done what he was movies — groggily urinates in an cause the advance of technology troops America sent into combat is a book about the lower ranks make no sense at all. In the au- by-moment experiences of Navy supposed to do. He had found his empty water bottle one night mere- has provided an ancientness to between 2001 and the present have who experience the thing itself, the thor’s telling, the American foot- corpsmen, helicopter pilots, sol- reason for being in Iraq.” Later on, ly to save himself a walk to the fighting in the sky. Glancing at a been the most skilled in our histo- gut-wrenching violence and confu- print in Afghanistan grows over the diers and Marines at their most after one more harrowing combat foul portable toilets at Camp Fal- screen while they flew, “aviators ry. Chivers’s achievement has been sion of war — history from the years from a sensible light-and-le- narrow and fundamental level. scene, Worley himself is wounded luja. He is punished by drawing now saw their target — be it build- to make his subjects mythic as well ground up, not from the top down, thal affair to a mushrooming net- Minutes become hours and eat up in an I.E.D. attack. “Marines who guard duty, where he is shot in the ing, vehicle or man — at the mo- as human. Moreover, everyone precisely what Washington elites work of urban blast-barrier mazes breathless spells of 20 and more survived bomb blasts often acted face by the enemy. The reader ment the bombs struck.” It was depicted is profoundly moral. miss. “The Fighters” constitutes of soldiers and Marines, even as pages at a stretch. Soto, in the in- according to pattern,” Chivers ex- meets him next some years later. like being a sniper. They literally Take a Navy pilot, Lt. Cmdr. Layne an illusion-free zone, where the the purpose of the war becomes stant before battle, when there is plains. “First they would see if “He was in constant pain and self- “watched their targets die.” In par- McDowell, who in the midst of concrete triumphs over the ab- completely lost. Specialist Robert often the click-on-click of metal they were alive. Then they would conscious about his appearance. ticular, Chivers chronicles the ex- these wars is constantly worried stract, where the best and most Soto, an old man still in his teens, coming from the automatic rifles, seek their weapon. Then they He had gained 50 pounds. He was ploits in Iraq of the Kiowa heli- about whether he killed a few ci- indelible of those profiled, from “had joined the Army to protect has a feeling of “absolute, intoxi- would ask if their genitals were still medically retired, unemployed, copter pilots, whose platform, vilians in a bomb he dropped dur- that vast working-class heart of America. He was unsure how the cating clarity.” There are the cous- there. … He loosened his pants. divorced and disfigured.” There is unlike the Black Hawk, is lightly ing the air campaign in Kosovo in the country, begin their military Korengal Outpost” — in north- ins Joe Dan Worley and Dustin He looked. There were no appar- no down time in this relentless armored. After a bullet passed 1999, even though senior officers service in a blaze of patriotism fol- eastern Afghanistan — “served Kirby, hospital corpsmen from ent wounds. … Worley was rushed book. The Russian-American poet through her sole and out through effectively told him to put the in- lowing 9/11, and end up confused, that end. The circumstances in the Powder Springs, Ga. Their fami- inside an aid station. … He felt a Joseph Brodsky said that good her ankle, one pilot, Chief Warrant cident out of his mind. The author’s cynical, betrayed and often disfig- valley, and many of the missions lies thought they would be safe in catheter being pushed down into poetry “should be dark with Officer Lori Hill, seeing her blood- stories give heart-rending meaning ured or dead. Of course, all wars his platoon was ordered to per- the Navy, but corpsmen are the his urethra.” Worley knew while nouns” on the page. Chivers’s soaked sock and foot, quips, “At to the lives and deaths of these are messy in the bloodiest and form, caused him to wonder what medics for Marines in combat. Af- drifting into unconsciousness that book is the prose equivalent, full least I painted my toenails.” Even men and women, even if policy- worst ways. What can redeem the Army was thinking. … Soto ter Worley’s first mass casualty if he survived “he would be an of nouns and the simplest, least though these wars have become, makers generally have not. Robert them for the combatants is only reduced the mission to its most event in Iraq, “a solemn cleanup amputee.” Love Filled Their Trip. affected adjectives. It reads the at least at this juncture, a lost D. Kaplan’s latest book is “The strategy, so that their ordeals con- basic rationale, We’re here because began. The remains of six of the On Day 369, ISIS Struck. While way soldiers and Marines talk, so cause, every main character in Chiv- Return of Marco Polo’s World: tain a larger purpose within a real- we’re here. If nothing else, the sol- platoon’s Marines, the Marine Worley loses his left leg above the the profanity comes across as po- ers’s account has a just-doing-my- War, Strategy, and American Inter- istic context. But in the background diers could fight for one another.” driver and three Iraqi police offic- knee, his cousin is even less fortu- etry. It is real and in the moment. job skill and heroism about him or ests in the Twenty-First Centu- of this book is the very absence of You have 4 free articles remaining. ers were put into body bags. Wor- nate. A handsome, unstoppable This history of the Afghanistan and her. Postmodern war, because of ry.” He is a senior fellow at the such strategy, not only on the larger What makes this book such a clas- ley was blood-soaked, exhausted, presence in battle, Kirby, who was Iraq wars is replete with air bat- technology, has become complex Center for a New American Secu- political level but on the microlev- sic of war reporting is the very ab- grieving and enraged when he ar- always ministering to the wound- tles. But there is nothing removed beyond all imagining, even for the rity and a senior adviser at Eurasia el, too: missions, one after the oth- sence of panorama. Rather, Chiv- rived back” at the base. “But he ed — he’s someone made for the and sterile about them. That is be- lowest infantry soldier. Thus, the Group. What next for Sudanafter Bashir's nominationfor athirdterm? it is believed that many more the president are restricting their By Ahmed H Adam among the NCP leadership are also ability to directly deal with Sudan. not supportive of Bashir's ambi- However, they don't appear to It seems Sudan's President Omar tions, but too scared to voice their have a clear plan - or the political BY Marjorie Cohn government’s support for Mr. al-Bashir has no intention of leav- concerns - such as former NISS will - to force the veteran politi- Trump.” Seconds later, Trump Jr. ing the presidency in the near fu- director and Bashir's former senior cian from power. On the contrary, In addition to the case for Donald replied, “if it’s what you say I love ture - and his insistence on holding assistant Nafie Ali Nafie (Howev- the US and many of its European Trump’s obstruction of justice by it.” Trump Jr. arranged the meet- on to power will likely have grave er, many believe Nafie and many allies are still collaborating with firing former FBI Director James ing with the expectation of receiv- consequences for his country. other NCP figures who oppose Bashir on issues like counter-ter- ing negative information the Rus- Bashir are not genuine reformists rorism, regional security and curb- Comey, evidence is mounting that On August 9, Sudan's ruling the president participated in a con- sian government purportedly had National Congress Party (NCP) and just want to increase their own ing migration. On the regional lev- about Clinton. That constituted an announced that it would back power and wealth). Furthermore, el, Bashir has played his cards well spiracy to violate the federal election law. Mueller could either ask agreement between Goldstone and Bashir as its candidate in the 2020 even though Bashir recently re- and managed to secure some sup- Trump Jr. to violate the federal presidential election. The party's shuffled the Sudan Armed Forces port from some important play- a grand jury to indict Trump as a (SAF)'s General Command, to ers. Saudi Arabia and the United co-conspirator or to name the pres- election law. Arranging the meet- advisory council said it has ening and attending the meeting were dorsed the president for a third term place his loyalists in positions of Arab Emirates are using Bashir's ident as an unindicted co-conspir- after long consultations among the power, there are reports that most regime to help their efforts to win ator. both overt acts. Everyone who at- party's leadership, even though the officers and foot soldiers do not the war in Yemen and increase their Federal Election Law tended the meeting with knowledge party charter - and the country's support the president's decision to dominance on the Red Sea and the Trump’s August 5 tweet that of its purpose and the intent to constitution - allows only two five- run for a third term. Bashir alien- Horn of Africa. Moreover, the the purpose of the June 9, 2016, further that purpose is liable for year terms. The party charter was ated many in military cadres back ceasefire and power-sharing deals Trump Tower meeting between conspiracy to violate the federal swiftly amended on the day of the in 2013, when he created a per- Bashir managed to broker between Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, election law. All co-conspirators are announcement but - at least on pa- sonal army, known as Rapid Sup- the warring parties in South Sudan Paul Manafort and Russian oper- legally responsible for the acts of per - there are two more hurdles port Force (RSF) militia. In April also helped the Sudanese president the other co-conspirators, even if this year, Bashir declared war on increase his regional standing. In ative Natalia Veselnitskaya “was that Bashir needs to overcome to to get information on an opponent” they didn’t directly participate in be able to run for office in 2020. corruption, in a bid to save the this context, it is unlikely that those acts or are unaware of the First, Article 57 of Sudan's consti- country's collapsing economy. In many regional stakeholders or was tantamount to an admission of a conspiracy to violate federal details of the conspiracy. Trump tution, which states that the pres- a strongly worded address to par- western powers are going to react need not have attended the June 9 ident can only hold office for a liament, Bashir claimed a nexus much to the announcement of Bash- election law. Although the presi- between foreign currency traders, ir's candidacy for the 2020 elec- dent added it was “totally legal and meeting to be liable as a co-con- maximum of two terms, needs to spirator. Trump ended his August be amended by the parliament. bankers and smugglers had dam- tions. The African Union High- done all the time in politics,” he Second, the NCP advisory coun- aged the economy, already weak- Level Implementation Panel for was mistaken about the “totally 5 tweet about the Trump Tower cil's decision to endorse Bashir's ened by US sanctions, corruption, Sudan (AUHIP), led by former legal” part. The federal election law meeting by saying, “I did not know candidacy and amend the party mismanagement, armed conflicts South African President Thabo says it is unlawful for “a foreign about it!” There is evidence that charter needs to be approved by and loss of oil revenues since a Mbeki, is mandated to assist the national, directly or indirectly, to Trump did know about the meet- delegates at the party's next con- north-south split in 2011. "These stakeholders in Sudan to realise a make a contribution or donation ing. Trump’s former lawyer, But a memo from independent Trump while in office. The spe- vention. Of course, both votes will few people are controlling every- comprehensive peace, but the pan- of money or other thing of value Michael Cohen, claims counsel Kenneth Starr’s investiga- cial counsel is required to send a be in name only - there is little thing and they have networks in el has not been active recently and … in connection with a Federal, ------the president was in the tion of Clinton says a president confidential report to Deputy At- doubt that the parliament and the the banking system," he told the it is not expected to take any ac- State, or local election.” Providing room, learned about the Russian can be indicted for criminal activi- torney General Rod Rosenstein, NCP convention will endorse any- lawmakers.This was an unexpect- tion regarding Bashir's renewed offer, and approved the June 9 ed move, as only two years earlier political ambitions. the Trump campaign with dirt on ty: “It is proper, constitutional, who appointed Mueller after Jeff thing the totalitarian leader desires, meeting. And Rudy Giuliani, and legal for a federal grand jury to Sessions recused himself from the and without much resistance. in 2016, when the parliament What next? Hillary Clinton to discredit her in the election constitutes a “thing of Trump’s current lawyer, let slip indict a sitting president for seri- Russia investigation. Even if Muel- Bashir is a scared man who still passed legislation that would have Now that Bashir has has made that a meeting between Trump, has near complete control over the allowed anyone regardless of his/ his intention to stay in power for value.” It is also illegal for “a perous criminal acts that are not part ler does not think he can indict her official position to be prose- life crystal clear, he has two op- son to solicit, accept, or receive a Trump Jr., Paul Manafort, Jared of, and are contrary to, the presi- Trump, Rosenstein could override ruling party, intelligence services Kushner and Manafort’s top dep- and the country. Like any dictator cuted for corruption, Bashir re- tions: He will either rig the upcom- contribution or donation … from dent’s official duties. In this coun- that decision. The Supreme Court who has stayed in power for mul- fused to sign it. At the time, it was ing election to guarantee a victory, a foreign national.” uty Rick Gates took place on June try, no one, even President Clin- has not ruled on whether a sitting tiple decades, and ruled with an obvious to Sudan watchers that or he will find a way to renew his Conspiracy Law 7. On the evening of June 7, Trump ton, is above the law.” Some legal president can be criminally indict- iron fist, he knows that he can not Bashir was reluctant to approve tenure, without holding elections. Another federal law makes it a announced that he would “give a scholars argue that the Constitu- ed. But in 1997, the high court held leave the presidency without fac- any anti-corruption legislation that Whichever path he chooses to fol- crime for two or more persons to major speech” during the follow- tion provides the remedy of im- in Clinton v. Jones that a presi- ing serious consequences. Further- may be used to target him and his low, the Sudanese people will be conspire to commit an offense or ing week to reveal “the things that peachment for a law-breaking pres- dent could be the subject of a civil more, he wants to avoid facing the inner circle. So what to make of the ones to suffer. There is a na- defraud the United States. The have taken place with the Clin- ident, who can only be charged with lawsuit while in office. If Mueller International Criminal Court (ICC) the president's ongoing anti-cor- tionwide opposition to Bashir's defraud clause criminalizes “any tons.” Trump never delivered that a crime after he leaves office. But does not ask a grand jury to indict for the alleged war crimes, crimes ruption operation against so-called plans to stay in power. Many, in- conspiracy for the purpose of im- speech. If Trump approved the Hofstra University law professor Trump, he could request that they against humanity and genocide he "regime fat-cats?" Since the start cluding leading figures of Bashir's June 9 meeting, that approval con- of the operation - under the direc- own party believe that he is a lia- pairing, obstructing or defeating Eric Freedman wrote a 1999 law name the president as an unindict- committed in Darfur. His inner cir- stitutes another overt act. Even if review article explaining why a sit- ed co-conspirator if the special cle is as scared to lose power as he tion of NISS director Salah Abdal- bility. As result of one man's insis- the lawful function of any department of government.” Never miss Trump didn’t know of the June 9 ting president could be indicted. counsel files an indictment against is, and collectively they are ready la Goash - several government of- tence on holding on to power, and meeting beforehand, he participat- to use any means necessary to ficials, military officers, former worsening political and economic the news and analysis you care He noted that other federal offi- others, such as Trump Jr., Kush- NISS executives and executives crises, we may witness a nation- about. Trump also tweeted that “it ed in a conspiracy to cover it up cials, such as judges, who are sub- ner and Manafort. There is prece- guarantee the continuation of their by later dictating a false statement corrupt and violent rule. The op- from leading banks and companies wide uprising, a coup or a violent went nowhere.” But there is legal ject to impeachment, have been dent for this course of action. In position within the party I spoke have been interrogated or arrested. power struggle between different liability for conspiracy even if the about the purpose of that meet- indicted during their tenure in of- 1974, a grand jury indicted seven to some NCP sources, on the con- But none of the accused, so far, groups within the regime in the near purpose of the conspiracy is not ing. In the memo he drafted, Trump fice. Jonathan Turley, a George associates of President Richard dition of anonymity, about the has been brought before the future. Sudan needs urgent and accomplished. A conspiracy is said the people present at the Washington University law pro- Nixon for the cover-up of the Wa- advisory council's August 9 an- courts. Hence it is evident to meaningful help in order to evade complete upon an agreement by Trump Tower meeting “primarily fessor writing in The Washington tergate burglary. At the request of nouncement. They told me that the many that Bashir's war on corrup- total collapse and implosion. The two or more people to commit a discussed a program about the Post, concluded that a sitting pres- special prosecutor Leon Jawors- entire process was manipulated by tion is largely political and it serves international community needs to crime followed by at least one overt adoption of Russian children” and ident can be charged with a crime. ki, the grand jury named Nixon as Bashir's inner circle and the Na- two main purposes: first, to si- stop ignoring Sudan's crisis and act in furtherance of the conspira- the topic of the meeting was “not “An indicted president is a terri- an un-indicted co-conspirator. Ul- tional Intelligence and Security lence, intimidate and remove the take constructive action. No doubt, cy, even if that crime is never com- a campaign issue at the time.” ble proposition,” Turley wrote. timately, if Trump can’t be indict- Service (NISS). But while Bashir regime's top leaders who oppose real change in Sudan can only be Can a Sitting President Be In- Bashir's re-election; second, to di- realised by the Sudanese people. mitted. The overt act need not be “But so is the continuation of a ed, he may not be able to refuse a and his supporters clearly have a dicted? presumed felon in office — one subpoena to testify before a grand hold on the advisory council, there vert Sudanese people' attention However, Sudan's crisis has re- unlawful in itself. Six days before the Trump Tower meeting, Brit- Whether or not a president can who clings to power as a shield jury by claiming the privilege are some among the party cadres - from the regime's failures in ad- gional and international dimensions be criminally indicted during his especially in youth groups - that dressing the country's deep polit- and it can only be solved with the ish tabloid reporter Rob Goldstone from accountability.” Giuliani told against self-incrimination. ical and economic crises. help of the international commu- emailed Donald Trump Jr. that the time in office is a matter of contro- “Fox & Friends” that Mueller’s He could not incriminate him- are vehemently against Bashir's re- versy. The Office of Legal Coun- election. Regional and international re- nity. The establishment of an in- Russian government had “some office informed Trump attorney self due to his alleged immunity For example, former presiden- sponse ternational mechanism that has a official documents and information sel at the Department of Justice Jay Sekulow that the special coun- from prosecution. tial adviser and leading NCP figure It is no secret that key West- clear mandate to assist the stake- that would incriminate Hillary,” during both the Nixon and Clinton sel did not have the power to in- But he could take the Fifth Amin Hassan Omer has openly ern countries would prefer Bashir holders to achieve an inclusive and adding, “This is obviously very administrations took the position dict a sitting president. Mueller has while still in office if he faces post- expressed his opposition to the to leave the presidency, as the meaningful democratic transition of high level and sensitive informa- that sitting presidents are immune made no public pronouncement presidency indictment. president's reelection. Moreover, ICC's two-arrest warrants against power can save. (Aljazeera) tion but is part of Russia and its from prosecution. about the propriety of indicting (Truthout) WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES W h y I s t h e U.S . W a r y of a D ecla r a t ion t o E n d t h e IRANhasrevealedits newest generation K or ea n W a r ? of short-range ballisticmissilewith thepromisethat “nothingcanstop” theFateh-110missile. The new weapon has double the range of other missiles, with chiefs vowing to increase Iran’s missile power “every day” as long as the country continues to be threatened. Iranian Defence Minister Amir Hatami described the missile as “100-percent domestically made. It is agile, stealth, tactical and pre- President Trump and the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, cision-guided”. The missile’s new- in Singapore in June. The two sides have clashed over just est range is predicted to be 186 to what their agreement at the summit meeting means. 310 miles (300-500 kilometres), according to local journalist Mah- WASHINGTON — As a reward projects to push for reconciliation di Bakhtiari. Previous versions of for its broader foray into diploma- with North Korea, and in Wash- this missile had a range of 124 to cy, North Korea wants a formal ington you have people pushing 186 miles (200-300 kilometres), and official declared end to the de- for denuclearization before any- according to the US-based Centre cades-long Korean War that set- thing else happens,” said Jean H. for Strategic and International Stud- tled into an uneasy truce in 1953. Lee, director of the Wilson Cen- ies. In a thinly veiled threat to US South Korea wants this, too. But ter’s center for Korean history and President Donald Trump, Mr the United States, which first sent public policy. “They have very Hatami told conservative news military forces to the Korean Pen- different end games and very dif- agency Tasnim: “As promised to insula in 1950 and still keeps ferent time frames. It’s very prob- our dear people, we will not spare 28,500 troops there, is not ready lematic.” The Trump administra- Chinathreatens foreign any effort to increase the missile to agree to a peace declaration. No tion, like those of Presidents capabilities of the country and we doubt the issue will be high on the Barack Obama, George W. Bush will certainly increase our missile agenda when the leaders of the two and Bill Clinton, is focused on ships andplanes 'daily' in power every day. “Be sure that Koreas hold their third summit North Korea’s nuclear weapons Tajikistan lets activists' the greater the pressures and psy- meeting next month, in Pyongy- program above all else. That’s in chological warfare against the great ang. Both want the end of the war large part because North Korea has families reunite, but HRW nation of Iran, our will to enhance to be declared this year with the been developing an intercontinen- theSouthChinaSea, but no our defence power in all fields will United States and, possibly, Chi- tal ballistic missile that would give increase.” The State Broadcaster na. And North Korea insists on Pyongyang the ability to strike the says crisis continues IRIB reported that the new mis- securing the declaration before United States mainland with a nu- oneis yieldingany ground sile called “Fateh-mobin” had al- moving forward with denucleariza- clear warhead. In a joint statement Human Rights Watch (HRW) has welcomed recent decisions by Tajik ready “successfully passed its tion. But there is a range of rea- released after the Singapore sum- authorities to allow two children of exiled dissidents to leave the coun- tests” and had the ability to strike sons American officials have re- mit meeting in June, the United try and reunite with their families who live abroad. "Even though the targets on land and sea. US offi- fused so far to embrace a formal States and North Korea said Py- government’s actions were very late in coming, it has acted correctly in cials told US broadcasters Fox peace declaration. The Trump ad- ongyang “commits to work toward allowing ordinary Tajik citizens to leave the country," the U.S.-based News that a missile was test-fired ministration wants North Korea to complete denuclearization of the international rights group said on August 14. Early in August, Tajik by Iran during naval exercises last first halt its nuclear weapons pro- Korean Peninsula.” But the two authorities removed 10-year-old Fatima Davlatova, along with her grand- week in the Strait of Hormoz. A gram — a tough line that could cre- sides didn’t agree on the definition mother and uncle, from an international flight just before takeoff. The US general described the exercises ate a divergence between the Unit- of denuclearization. For President move stopped them from traveling to Europe to reunite with Fatima’s as Iran’s way of sending a mes- ed States and South Korea, its ally. Trump’s top foreign policy offi- mother, activist Shabnam Hudoidodova. But on August 11, following sage. President Donald Trump In turn, analysts said, that gives cials — Mike Pompeo, the secre- an international outcry, Tajik security officers gave the family new pulled out the 2015 nuclear deal an opening to North Korea — and tary of state, and John R. Bolton, flight tickets to make the journey, HRW said. Tajik authorities had also with Iran and world powers in maybe China and Russia — to ex- the national security adviser — prevented 4-year-old Ibrohim Hamza from traveling abroad for neces- May. It comes as United States' ploit the gap between Washington denuclearization means North sary medical treatment, before giving him and his mother travel docu- Ambassador to the United King- and Seoul. “You have South Korea Korea halting and dismantling its ments on August 1. Hamza’s father, Ruhullo Tillozoda, is a leading dom has labelled. moving so quickly on these nuclear weapons program. member of the banned Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan (IRPT). HRW said Hamza and Davlatova had "effectively been held hostage for years -- banned from leaving the country since a severe human rights crackdown picked up steam in 2015 -- to punish their parents abroad for peaceful political and human rights work.” Allowing the two chil- Lavrov accuses US of dren to leave Tajikistan "is only the very tip of the iceberg in terms of ending the government's practice of harassing relatives of exiled activists and politicians, or indeed of ending the human rights crisis that has attempts to impede gripped the country for the last three years," HRW said.

The Khujand City Court is scheduled on August 15 to start hearing an appealUzb frome kTajikis journalisttan Hairulloand Mirsaidov,Sou whoth wasK sentencedorea to China is threatening foreign ships sance plane six times as it flew past Astana process for Syria 12 years in prison in July for alleged financial crimes. and planes operating in the South Chinese strongholds in the Sprat- China Sea on a "daily" basis, ac- ly Islands. "Leave immediately and only some isolated small groups The 39-year-oldwill Mirsaidov implement and rights groups have joint rejected the charges cording to the chief of the Armed keep out to avoid any misunder- remaining. The main target for the as politically motivated. Forces of the Philippines. "It's a standing," the voice on the radio present moment is Jabhat al-Nus- prospective projects daily occurrence," General Carlito directed. A US Navy pilot called ra (also outlawed in Russia)," he Galvez Jr. told the press Monday, the radio queries "routine," adding added. Journalists were informed about the results of dialogue with rep- the Inquirer reported. "Our pilots that "it really has no effect on any Syrian refugees resentatives of large South Korean industrial enterprises. As just reply, 'We are just doing our operations or anything we do." The statement of UN High noted, the delegation held meetings with leaders and investors routine flight on our jurisdiction Chinese radio responses to US and Commissioner for Refugees Filip- of large enterprises of the electrical industry of Korea, conduct- and territory.'" The office of the Philippine military aircraft over- po Grandi on the dangers of their ed negotiations on mutually beneficial agreements. Agreements president of the Philippines flights can be heard in the follow- return to Syria shows lack of were reached on issues related to development of the electrical praised its country's pilots for dis- ing video clip, a piece of the BBC awareness, Lavrov said. "It was industry. In turn, Korean entrepreneurs forwarded a number of regarding Chinese warnings and report that was tweeted out this strange to hear the statement of proposals for implementation of new promising projects. Dele- threats, which can be particularly past weekend: The tone of the ra- the UN high commissioner for ref- gation members visited Dongho Cosmo company for produc- aggressive. "Philippine military dio query directed at the US air- ugees, if it was stated correctly, tion of electric, gas, water meters, working online, and in indus- aircraft, I'm warning you again: craft is noticeably softer than that that, in his opinion, the return of trial enterprises that cooperate with it, where they held bilateral Leave immediately or you will bear of the call aimed at the Philippine refugees to Syria is premature at practical negotiations. An agreement was signed between Uzelte- responsibility for all the conse- plane. Nonetheless, the US mili- the present moment, because it is hsanoat, the khokimiyat of Andijan region and Dongho Cosmo. quences," a disgruntled Chinese tary had some strong words for still dangerous there. If this state- In addition, representatives of the company visited the Korea voice shouted over the radio as a China, which is rapidly expanding ment really took place, then it’s Electrical Manufacturers Association and gave information about Philippine military plane flew over its military presence in the South just a lack of awareness, if not the hotly contested South China China Sea through the deployment something more serious," the min- the investment climate of Uzbekistan. Within the framework of Sea recently, according to a BBC of jamming technology, anti-ship ister said. "In general, the position the visit, negotiations were held with representatives of the Ko- report. The Chinese also challenge cruise missiles, surface-to-air mis- of the West concerning refugees is rea Electrical Manufacturers’ Cooperative (KEMC). The sides the US military. Last Friday, the siles, and other defense equipment Russia sees intentions of the US the Astana process from achieving surprising - in most cases, they ex- expressed confidence that strengthening trade and economic Chinese military radioed a US intended to tighten China's grip on and the West in general to impede concrete results and present it as ercise restraint," the Russian for- ties between Uzbekistan and Korea, including promising projects Navy P-8A Poseidon reconnais- the territories. the Astana process for the Syrian not quite successful," he said. eign minister noted. "However, implemented in transport and logistics sector, production of new settlement, Russian Foreign Min- "These attempts were seen earli- there was a very helpful action industrial products, will give tangible results in the near future. ister Sergey Lavrov told reporters er, and most likely they will con- with participation of Russia and In addition, members of the delegation held active negotiations 'China is an empire': Hong after taking part in a session of tinue," the diplomat added. "But France, when we delivered human- with leaders of large industrial enterprises, such as Ki Joo Indus- Turkey’s ambassadors and perma- the fact that Turkey, Russia and itarian aid to Eastern Ghouta, but trial Ltd. and Hi Group. nent envoys to international orga- Iran, having not always concurring right now we are talking about a Kong independence talk nizations. "We won’t probably see and sometimes far from concurring much more large-scale goal." any direct linkage with the Syrian stances on this or that aspect of Lavrov added that the vast part of held amid protests crisis in the statements made by the Syrian crisis have found wis- the Syrian territory had been lib- the US side when it declares sanc- dom and willingness to settle con- erated from terrorists, and there is Azerbaijan’s Central A hotly anticipated speech by a rie Lam said she "regretted" the tions against our countries (Rus- crete problems, has reversed the no military activity there. "It’s time pro-Hong Kong independence ac- FCC's decision to host Chan, while sia, Iran and Turkey)," he said. situation in Syria," Lavrov to recover infrastructure, all life- Bank to auction notes tivist went ahead Tuesday at the her predecessor, CY Leung, re- "But objectively, of course we feel stressed. "Islamic State (terrorist support systems, so that the refu- city's Foreign Correspondents' peatedly called for the event to be the wish of the West, and first of organization outlawed in Russia) gees from Turkey, Lebanon, Jor- Club, amid government pressure called off. In a statement Tuesday, all the US but not only, to prevent has been practically defeated with dan, Europe would start returning. worth 300M manats and protests by pro-China groups. MOFA called Chan's speech an Andy Chan, founder of the Hong "abuse of freedoms of press and Kong National Party addressed a speech," and accused the FCC of packed house and tens of thou- endorsing his views. Pro-China Erdogan says Turkey to sands on a live Facebook feed, protesters hold banners during a equating Hong Kong's position demonstration outside the Foreign under China to its former colonial Correspondents' Club in boycott US electronic goods past. "We were once colonized by Hong Kong, on August 14, 2018. the Brits, and now we are colo- Pro-China protesters hold banners nized by the Chinese, where is our during a demonstration outside the President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday said Turkey would boy- right to determine our own future?" Foreign Correspondents' Club in cott US electronic goods like the iPhone in retaliation for punitive sanc- said Chan, who also warned that Hong Kong, on August 14, 2018. tions from Washington, as the Turkish lira finally clawed back some Hong Kong could follow the path A perceived attempt by the gov- ground after going into a tailspin over the tensions. The dispute between An auction for placement of short-term notes worth 300 million manats the NATO allies -- brought to a new intensity by Turkey's holding of an of Azerbaijan’s Central Bank (CBA) will be held at the Baku Stock of Tibet and Xinjiang, where Chi- ernment to censor Chan's talk made na has recently been accused of front page news in Hong Kong, and American pastor for two years -- has raised questions over the future of Exchange (BSE) on Aug. 15, the BSE said Aug. 14. According to the their partnership and fanned fears of a looming economic crisis in Tur- message, 3 million notes at a par value of 100 manats each and maturity imprisoning hundreds of thou- the event attracted a huge media sands of Uyghur Muslims. The presence, as well as protests by key. "We will boycott US electronic goods," Erdogan said in a speech in period of 28 days will be put up for auction. The maturity date of the Ankara, again showing no sign of compromise in the dispute. "If (the notes is Sept. 12, 2018. FCC said it received "representa- groups calling for it to be canceled, tions" from the Chinese Ministry and for the implementation of an United States) have the iPhone, there's Samsung on the other side," he Short-term notes are a tool of monetary policy to regulate money said, referring to US giant Apple's iconic phone and the top South supply in circulation. Only banks can obtain notes. of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in anti-sedition law. "By virtue of its Hong Kong, though it did not elab- historical, geographical and cultural Korean brand. "We (also) have our Venus and Vestel," he said about Under new requirements, each bank can submit maximum two applica- homegrown Turkish electronics brands. Shares in Vestel zoomed up tions – one competitive and one noncompetitive. orate on what was communicated. difference, Hong Kong is a truly Hong Kong's Chief Executive Car- separate entity from the so-called. seven percent on the Istanbul stock exchange after Erdogan's remarks. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Iran’s supreme leader on Monday accused President Hassan Rou- hani’s government of mismanagement, after a string of angry public protests over the dire state of the economy. Ayatollah Ali Khame- nei’s statement was an apparent attempt to deflect public anger over the plunging worth of the rial — the currency has lost about half of its value since April — and wider economic woes due to tough new US sanctions on Tehran. “More than the sanctions, economic mismanagement is putting pressure on ordinary Iranians ... I do not call it betrayal but a huge mistake in management,” Khamenei said. The leader’s speech adds to the grow- ing pressure on Iran’s beleaguered m ust ensure government. Aside from the economic concerns, footage of protests indicates a more fundamental dissatisfaction with the regime, indepe nde nce with chants of slogans such as “death to the dictator” and demands for an end to Iran’s costly of central regional interventions in Lebanon, Syria and Yemen while Iranians suffer economic pain. The Iranian bank: Merkel leader also ruled out any talks with the US, following last week’s re- imposition of sanctions after Pres- German Chancellor Angela Mer- that are currently going on in Tur- ident Donald Trump pulled out of kel urged Turkey on Monday to key are causing great concern,” the 2015 deal aimed at curbing ensure the independence of its cen- Maas said. Turkey’s relations with Iran’s nuclear program. Thousands tral bank as other senior officials United States and Germany have of Iranians have protested in re- said that Turkey’s economic woes been strained by its decision to cent weeks against sharp rises in were causing great concern. The arrest several citizens from both the prices of some food items, a Turkish lira has lost more than 40 countries. Maas said that resolv- percent against the dollar this year, ing differences between Turkey lack of jobs and state corruption. ing to protect their savings. Mean- and could strike targets on land and Washington, said Iran was devel- denial and deception tactics to hide The rial has lost about half of its largely due to worries about Pres- and its two NATO allies could while, Iran on Monday unveiled a sea. Previous versions of the mis- oping a “robust” defense industry such launchers from overhead sur- ident Tayyip Erdogan’s influence help ease its economic crisis. “I value since April in anticipation of next generation short-range ballis- sile had a range of about 200 to despite the country’s “severe” eco- veillance … much like the Houthi the renewed US sanctions, driven over the economy, his repeated calls believe that would help to facili- tic missile. State broadcaster IRIB 300 kilometers. Theodore Karasik, nomic problems. militias are doing in Yemen,” he for lower interest rates, and wors- tate a solution, including to the mainly by heavy demand for dol- said the new Fateh Mobin missile a security analyst and senior ad- “The missile is launched from a said. lars among ordinary Iranians try- ening ties with the United States. economic problems,” Maas said. had “successfully passed its tests” viser to Gulf State Analytics in mobile launcher that provides for (BBC) The currency pulled back from a A spokeswoman for the German record low to the dollar on Mon- Finance Ministry said she was not day after the central bank pledged aware of any crisis talks among to provide liquidity, but it remained members of the G20 industrialized Kuwait’s under selling pressure and its melt- countries on the situation. She down continued to rattle global added that it was too early to com- markets. “Nobody has an interest ment on the exposure of German current in an economic destabilization in companies to the economic situa- Turkey. But everything must be tion in Turkey. Germany’s VDMA done to ensure an independent cen- engineering association said that account tral bank,” Merkel said during a machinery exports to Turkey had news conference in Berlin when fallen nearly 5 percent from Janu- asked about the economic situa- ary to May compared with the first surplus tion in Turkey. “Germany would five months in the previous year. like to see an economically pros- “The negative development is like- perous Turkey. This is in our in- ly to continue in the coming hits 3- terest,” Merkel added. German months since the Turkish lira has Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said fallen sharply against the euro,” that Ankara could do more to im- VDMA said, pointing to U.S. Pres- year high prove diplomatic ties with both ident Donald Trump’s decision to Kuwait’s current account regis- the United States and Germany impose new sanctions and higher tered its highest surplus in three which would also ease its econom- tariffs on Turkey. years during the first quarter stand- ic woes. “Yes, the developments (CNN) ing at KD1.7 billion ($5.58 billion) - about 17 per cent of quarterly GDP - up from KD1.2 billion Venezuela's president has said its tary Fund predicting inflation rates ness. Venezuela loses $18bn to fuel dent said that all Venezuelans who ($3.94 billion) in the fourth quar- subsidised fuel prices should rise, will reach a million percent this year smuggling annually, according to hold the "Fatherland ID", a gov- ter of 2017, said a report by Cen- UNAfricaheadcalls to stop smugglers cheating the - but the price of fuel has barely government figures. President ernment-issued identity card intro- tral Bank of Kuwait. A rise in the country out of billions of dollars. changed. Venezuela crisis: How did Maduro says adapting Venezue- duced by his administration in trade surplus, supported by high- "Gasoline must be sold at an inter- we get here? The price of a litre of lan fuel prices to international lev- 2017, will continue to receive "di- er oil prices, more than offset a national price to stop smuggling petrol in Venezuela currently els will stamp out smuggling. The rect subsidies" for "about two widening services deficit, lower for pushtotackle to Colombia and the Caribbean," stands at 1 bolivar. On the black move is part of a wider plan to years". However, many Venezue- investment income, and higher re- Nicolás Maduro said in a televised market, Venezuelans pay more increase government revenue in the lans opposed to Mr Maduro's gov- mittances, it stated. The trade sur- address. Like many oil producing than 4m bolivares for one US dol- face of falling oil production, Ven- ernment have refused to get the ID plus in first quarter rose to KD3.4 nations, Venezuela offers its citi- lar That means that for the equiv- ezuela's main export income. Will cards, alleging they are used by billion from KD2.3 billion the pre- economic crime zens heavily subsidised petrol. A alent of one dollar, Venezuelans can all Venezuelans have to pay full officials to keep tabs on them. The vious qaurter, lifted primarily by fuel price rise in 1989 caused deadly fill the tank of a medium-sized car whack now? No, according to Pres- price rise is therefore expected to higher oil receipts and non-oil ex- riots in the capital, Caracas. about 720 times. Smuggling the ident Maduro "only those individ- hit opponents of President Ma- ports, while imports held steady. What's behind the move? subsidised fuel from Venezuela into uals who don't answer the call to duro in greater numbers than those The price of Kuwait Export Crude Venezuela's economy is in free- neighbouring countries, where register will have to pay fuel at who support him. averaged $63 per barrel in first fall, with the International Mone- prices are much higher, is big busi- international prices". The presi- (BBC) quarter, a 9 per cent q-o-q increase, helping oil receipts add KD193 million during the quarter despite the Opec+ production cap, to reach KD4.4 billion. Central Bank Chinais printingmoney for countries like of Kuwait pointed out that the higher petrochemical prices, which move closely with oil prices, and PolandandBrazil at 'full steam' as it tries to strong demand from Asia also helped support non-oil exports. Combatting bribery, money laun- A report on illicit financial flows Goods imports were little changed dering and tax evasion should be a by the research organisation Glo- on the quarter, with modest growth priority for African countries to bal Financial Integrity, from 2013, expandits influenceontheglobal economy relative to last year (over 4 per cent transition to ‘middle income sta- showed Africa lost close to $1.4 y-o-y), but still hinting at healthy tus’, the executive secretary of the trillion from 1980 and 2009 via licit China is printing other countries' and 10 plants for printing paper domestic demand, stated the re- United Nation Economic Commis- and illicit means, which included money as it seeks to expand its notes and coins. Its US counter- port. Implementation of govern- sion for Africa has urged. Vera Song- bribery and tax evasion. The re- influence on the global economy. part, the Bureau of Engraving and ment development projects and we has called on African govern- port also found illicit financial Money-printing plants across Printing, employs fewer than the improving business environ- ments to show leadership to in- flows were the “main driving force” China are running at close to full 2,000 people. China's attitude to- ment kept the import of interme- vestigate and prosecute economic behind the net drain of resources capacity to meet an unusually high ward printing currency marks a diate goods robust. Meanwhile, crimes and companies that evade from Africa – of US$1.2 - 1.3 trn quota set by the government this change from previous low demand stronger consumer spending was taxes. Songwe said at a two-day on an inflation-adjusted basis. The year, multiple sources from the for printing, as Chinese citizens reflected in higher vehicle and food African leadership forum last UN has estimated that the amount China Banknote Printing and have turned to using their phones imports, it added. week: “Countries should also that Africa loses money launder- Minting Corporation told the rather than cash. Hu Xingdou, a The country's central bank build human and technological ca- ing and tax evasion is roughly dou- South China Morning Post. Chi- professor of economics at the said deficit in the services balance pacities of agencies tasked with ble the official development assis- nese yuan notes made up "a small Beijing Institute of Technology, widened to KD1.9 billion against tackling illicit financial flows, and tance that it receives. The organi- proportion of the orders," with told the South China Morning Post a backdrop of improving econom- institute information sharing and sation also said the illicit flows most of the demand coming from that a nation must have consider- ic prospects. An expansionary fis- collaboration between relevant outweigh the $42bn that the con- countries participating in China's able trust in the Chinese govern- cal plan, in addition to higher oil government agencies and minis- tinent received through foreign di- Belt and Road Initiative, one ment to allow it to print its ban- prices, helped support domestic tries.” She added that “for a conti- rect investments in 2017. Songwe source who asked not to be named knotes. "The world economic land- confidence. Growth in travel ser- nent that needs substantial finan- also called for more integrity and told the South China Morning scape is undergoing some profound vices was also robust, while the cial resources to meet its develop- transparency among leaders, pub- Post. Until recently China did not changes," he said. "As China be- ongoing execution of development ment needs”, there should be more lic officials and private institutions print foreign currency at all, but in comes bigger and more powerful, projects (infrastructure and admin- focus on transparency and a “col- by declaring their assets and urged 2013 Beijing launched the Belt and it will challenge the value system istrative) fed into higher demand lective effort” from auditors, ac- that countries sign up to the inter- Road Initiative, a plan seeking to established by the West. Printing for construction and governmen- countability agencies and the me- national tax information treaties to stimulate economic growth in money for other countries is an tal services, it stated. dia to tackle illicit flows of money. enable exchange of information. about 60 countries in Europe, Af- important step." He added: "Cur- rica, and Asia through investment rency is a symbol of a country's and infrastructure projects. Two sovereignty. This business helps years later China began printing build trust and even monetary alli- money for Nepal, and today for- ances." Leverage over currency can Germaneconomicsentiment improvesinAugust asEU-UStensionsease eign customers of China's indus- also be a powerful weapon. Dur- German economic sentiment im- current situation index nudged up months ago." Claus Vistesen, chief try now also reportedly include ing the fall of the Libyan ruler proved in August as trade tensions by 0.2 points to 72.6, beating ex- eurozone economist at Pantheon Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Muammar Gaddafi seven years between the EU and the US eased, pectations for a reading of 72.3. Macroeconomics, said the rebound Malaysia, India, Brazil, and Po- ago, the British government seized according to the latest survey from Achim Wambach, President of in the ZEW investor sentiment in- land as well as possibly others that $1.5 billion worth of Libyan di- the ZEW Center for European ZEW, said: "The recent agreement dex is welcome news following a have not been disclosed, a source nars originally produced for the Economic Research in Mannheim. in the trade dispute between the string of declines in recent months. in the corporation said. The state- dictator by the British currency The economic sentiment indicator EU and the United States has led "The increase is consistent with owned China Banknote Printing printer De La Rue, which sparked rose to -13.7 from -24.7 in July, to a considerable rise in expecta- EZ investors probably being too and Minting Corporation, which shortages in the country and put above consensus expectations for tions for Germany and also, to a pessimistic at the end of Q2, but is headquartered in Beijing's Xi- pressure on the state. Beijing has a reading of -21.3. However it re- lesser degree, for theeEurozone. most recent events in Turkey and cheng district, describes itself as been concerned that its enemies mained in negative territory and However, the economic outlook the spectre of further volatility in the world's largest money printer could use fake notes to disrupt its significantly below its long-term for Germany is now significantly Italian bond markets over the by scale with 18,000 employees economy. average of 23.0. Meanwhile, the less favourable than it was six forthcoming budget negotiations. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

The Knights Templar on History's drama series Knightfall will wel- Netflix on come a Jedi to the cast when Luke Monday released Skywalker actor Mark Hamill joins the series for its second sea- the first two son. History announced on Mon- official photos day is has green-lighted a season 2 of the drama show about the po- from Chilling litical and physical battles of the Knights Templar military order Adventures of during the Middle Ages. Hamill Sabrina, starring will take on the role of Talus, "a battle-hardened Knight Templar Kiernan Shipka. veteran of the Crusades, who sur- See them here. vived captivity for ten years in the Holy Land and is tasked with training the new initiates to the Order." So basically he's going to play Yoda with a sword. The series stars Tom Cullen from Down- ton Abbey as a "courageous, and headstrong Templar Knight who serves as a driving force behind the Templar's quest to retrieve Chris- tianity's most prized relic: The Holy Grail." Knightfall will also get a new showrunner, Aaron Hel- bing from The Flash and Sparta- cus: War of the Damned. "We look forward to offering our viewers a grittier, darker 'Knightfall' in season 2 and welcoming Mark to the Netflix on Monday released the Rosemary’s Baby and The Exor- Comics, penned the script for the Davis, Ross Lynch, Michelle Go- cast," said Eli Lehrer, History's first two official photos from Chill- cist, this adaptation finds Sabrina series. Aguirre-Sacasa executive mez, Chance Perdomo, Jaz Sinclair, executive vice president of pro- ing Adventures of Sabrina, starring wrestling to reconcile her dual na- produces alongside Riverdale col- Richard Coyle, Tati Gabrielle, Ade- gramming. Kiernan Shipka. According to an ture — half-witch, half-mortal — laborators Greg Berlanti, Sarah line Rudolph, Abigail Cowen, (ABC) official synopsis, the show imag- while standing against the evil forc- Schechter, Archie Comics CEO Jon Lachlan Watson, Bronson Pinchot ines the origin and adventures of es that threaten her, her family and Goldwater and Lee Toland Krieg- and Gavin Leatherwood. Chilling Sabrina the Teenage Witch as a dark the daylight world humans inhab- er. The drama hails from Warner Adventures of Sabrina will debut coming-of-age story that traffics it. Riverdale showrunner Roberto Bros. Television-based Berlanti on October 26 on Netflix, just in in horror, the occult and, of course, Aguirre-Sacasa, who also serves as Productions. Besides Shipka, the time for Halloween. witchcraft. Tonally in the vein of chief creative officer of Archie cast includes Miranda Otto, Lucy (Hindustan Times) Aamir Khan rules out Namaste England: Parineeti joining politics but accepts Chopra, Arjun Kapoor his role in nation building Aamir Khan said that people like him, who are working in the share two new posters creative fields, have a major responsibility towards nation building and making the “social fabric” strong.

Irrfan Khan offers new health update, pulls out of AIB’s Amazon series Irrfan Khan has released a statement about his decision to step away from AIB’s Amazon show, Gormint. The statement also serves as a health update for his fans. Aamir Khan has ruled out the pos- people in this field have a major was founded by Aamir Khan and sibility of joining politics. The responsibility towards nation his wife Kiran Rao. Paani Founda- Irrfan Khan, who is currently un- Bollywood actor, while respond- building and making the social fab- tion conducts a competition called dergoing treatment in London for ing to a query on whether he would ric of the society strong,” he said the Satyamev Jayate Water Cup, a rare form of cancer, on Monday enter politics, if he were offered a at a press conference on Monday, in which villages compete to win announced that he would be pull- Rajya Sabha berth for his social after attending an event organised prizes for the best watershed man- ing out of Amazon’s The Minis- work, said, “We are currently do- by his Paani Foundation to declare agement work. About expanding try, now titled Gormint. The show, ing a lot of work and I think to do the Watercup awards. Political the scope of the watershed move- created by AIB’s Gursimran that work, there is no need to en- leaders cutting across the party ment, Khan said instead of going Khamba, had been in production ter into politics.” On Sunday, the lines attended the award distribu- larger, the foundation will try go for several months, with Irrfan Dangal star said people like him, tion ceremony held in Pune in deeper. “Currently, 75 tehsils have having already shot many scenes. who are working in the creative Maharashtra. Paani Foundation is been covered under the watershed “With a heavy heart I would fields, have a major responsibility a not-for-profit company set up movement. We would like to go like to say that due to this ongoing towards nation building and mak- in 2016 by the team of the TV se- deeper rather going larger,” he said. situation, I will not be able to fulfil ing the “social fabric” strong. “I ries Satyamev Jayate to fight The actor said they would now my acting commitment to the am working in the creative field and drought in rural Maharashtra. It focus on areas. show,” Irrfan said in a statement. “I am gutted by this development A day ahead of the Indian Inde- jab to London, we are here to say characters are from Punjab and this because the character and the show pendence Day, Parineeti Chopra NAMASTE ENGLAND !!,” she is the first time that Arjun and thrilled me and I even lived with has draped herself in the Union tweeted on Monday. “No moun- Parineeti will be playing genuine the character for several months Jack. The actor has shared two new tain is high enough and no distance lovers. Away from the camera, before having to cut the journey posters from her upcoming film far enough for love! Presenting the they are good friends and are al- short. But after extensive discus- with Arjun Kapoor, Namastey #NamasteEnglandPoster,” wrote ways joking and pranking. There’s sions, workarounds and sincere England. In the first poster, Arjun in his tweet. Namaste En- a lot of camaraderies and it’s going efforts by everyone involved, the Parineeti is seen carrying the Brit- gland is a sequel to Akshay Kumar to be fun working with them.” Ar- situation prevents me from being ish flag as a dupatta while in the and Katrina Kaif’s hit 2007 roman- jun and Parineeti reunite after their able to do the show entirely. And other one, Arjun is wearing it on tic movie, Namastey London. It 2012 film Ishaqzaade. Apart from thus, I must, at this time, exit stage his T-shirt. “Love can travel any will also be directed by Vipul Am- Namaste England, the couple will left.” Irrfan continued that he re- distance,” reads the tagline on both rutlal Shah and will release on Sep- also be seen in Dibakar Banerjee’s mains “excited to see the final prod- posters. “A film that I still can’t tember 19. Vipul said about his lead Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar. Parinee- uct and have complete faith in the believe I am a part of!!! From Pun- characters in February, “Both their ti will also soon. creative team.

The last time we spoke to British like to be in it, so I said yes! I’m a boss but he’s the idiot. So Marc actor-comedian Mark Gatiss about fan of his work and it’s very excit- gave me fantastic free rein to mess his most famous creation so far — ed to be offered a Disney film. Yes, about and fall over — which I do a the runaway hit show Sherlock — I read the stories (by A.A. Milne) lot! It depends entirely on the ap- he came across as someone who when I was a child and I’ve always proach — people often say short doesn’t mince his words, and liked the Disney cartoons. It stories make the best films because Over a dozen people have been arrested for allegedly leaking Geetha doesn’t care about popular opin- seems strange to have Pooh with there’s enough material to expand Govindam, the new film starring Vijay Deverakonda. An editor who ion. During this second interview, an American voice (in the film) and upon and adapt and fool around Gatiss, besides being forthright, is rather counter-intuitive, as it’s such with, whereas if you’re trying to worked on the film and around 17 people, believed to be college stu- chirpy and even jokes that he ex- a British thing, but there’s some- adapt a massive, famous book it’s dents, were arrested in Guntur. The leak happened on Sunday. The pects an action figure for his role thing incredibly charming about it. a) very hard to do in a short time film, one of the most anticipated Telugu films of the year, was sched- of Giles Winslow Jr in the film How are you playing Giles? frame and b) you’re obviously go- uled for release on the prime August 15 release date. “I feel let down, Christopher Robin, which is out I’m sort of the baddie, even ing to annoy the people that love disappointed, hurt,” Deverakonda wrote on Twitter on Sunday. The today. In a candid chat, he talks though he’s a very ineffectual and it. But the book is not destroyed producers were alerted about the availability of the film on YouTube, about the show, his new film, and stupid baddie, but I suppose it when an adaptation is made and if and managed to have the videos removed. They also filed a complaint more. What made you say a yes to makes me a Disney villain, so I’m you don’t like it that much you with the police. According to The News Minute, the prime accused is the role of Giles Winslow? Marc hoping I might get an action figure. can always go back and read it a man named Padavala Rajesh, a resident of Hyderabad. The accused Forster, the director, Skyped me In terms of the role, I read the again. Shakespeare is amazingly had allegedly copied the film and shared it with members of his family, when I was in Cardiff (UK) film- scripts and Marc and I worked out impervious to all kinds of differ- several of whom are students at KL University. These relatives circu- ing Sherlock and he described the all sorts of stuff for it — Giles is ent adaptations and that goes for lated the film among friends. part and the film and asked if I’d very clumsy and he thinks he’s the most things. WEDNESDAY .AUGUST 15, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES Adam and Simon Yates One-day match between Sutherland and Randwick-Petersham on Novem- to race ber 10 could see Smith and Warner face off against each other together

Banned Australian batsmen Steve lowing the ban, the trio have played Smith and David Warner are ex- in various domestic competitions, at Vuelta pected to return to Sydney first- with Smith scoring 41 on his de- grade cricket for their respective but for the Barbados Tridents in clubs' opening fixtures on Septem- the Twenty20 Caribbean Premier a Espana ber 22. Smith plays for Sutherland, League (CPL) competition last who host Mosman in their first Sunday. Highlights of Barbados Premier Cricket fixture, while Warn- Tridents' 30-run win over Guyana er represents Randwick-Peter- Amazon Warriors in the Caribbe- sham, who will face St. George, an Premier League on Sunday, in- according to a report on Cricket cluding a knock of 41 from Smith Australia's website. An enticing The 29-year-old also regained showdown between former Aus- the world number one test batting tralia captain Smith and vice-cap- ranking earlier this week despite tain Warner could take place on being out of action for Australia November 10, when Sutherland since March. Warner is also play- and Randwick-Petersham face off ing in the CPL for the St Lucia in a one-day match at an undecid- Stars, while Bancroft participated ed venue. The duo, along with in the domestic Darwin's Strike opener Cameron Bancroft, were League last month. Watch St Lucia handed lengthy bans by Cricket Stars v Barbados Tridents in the Australia (CA) following a ball- Caribbean Premier League live on tampering scandal during the South Sky Sports Cricket from 1.30am Africa test series in March. Fol- on Sunday. Adam Yates will again join twin brother Simon in Mitchelton- Scott's team for the Vuelta a Espa- na, which gets underway on Au- gust 25. Simon Yates is one of the favourites to win the season's final Grand Tour having played a starring role in the Giro d'Italia back in May, where he led until fading badly on stage 19 when Chris Froome launched his successful solo bid for glory. He was still buoyed by wearing the race leader's pink jersey for 13 days and President Donald Trump has his powerful mind. He has been a grats to Brooks and his great team hopes to be able to maintain his hailed US PGA winner Brooks man of steel on the Tour and will on a job well done!" Trump is no challenge in Spain, albeit having Koepka as a "man of steel" fol- have many Victories, including stranger to passing comment on one eye on the World Road Race lowing his triumph at Bellerive Majors, ahead of him. Congrats to sporting events and personalities, Championship on a hilly course in Country Club. The United States' Brooks and his great team on a job most recently venting at basket- Austria at the end of September. commander in chief, a lifelong golf well done! "Brooks Koepka just ball great LeBron James after the They compete in the same race fan, tweeted his respect for Koep- won his third Golf Major, and he latter offered a less-than-compli- rarely, although both brothers did ka's achievement in winning the did it not only with his powerful mentary assessment of Trump on ride last year's Vuelta without any third major title of his career ahead game, but with his powerful a chat show. Trump has also ex- success. "My preparation has of an inspired Tiger Woods. mind," Trump posted. "He has pressed his disapproval of NFL Brooks Koepka just won his third been a man of steel on the Tour players who choose to make po- been very different to the Giro Golf Major, and he did it not only and will have many Victories, in- litical protests by 'taking a knee' d'Italia," said Simon Yates who, like with his powerful game, but with cluding Majors, ahead of him. Con- during the national anthem. his brother, recently committed his future to the Australian-run team for two seasons. "Like a few guys that will line up in Spain, I have one eye on the World Champion- J oh a n n a K on t a Beter biev vs Johnson: US ships later this year so it will be interesting to see how my body heavyweight Nkosi Solomon to responds but as always I'll give it my all to achieve a great result." k n ock ed ou t in Adam Yates focused his season make pro debut on Chicago bill around the Tour de France, and he sat as high as seventh at one point C in cin n a t i b u t American heavyweight Nkosi So- of me, right there, I just have to before struggling in the Alps and lomon will make his professional grab it," said Solomon. "Nkosi So- eventually finishing 29th behind debut on the undercard for Artur lomon is the only and greatest chal- Geraint Thomas. He is expected S er en a W illia m s Beterbiev's world title fight with lenge I have to overcome when it to play a support role for his broth- Callum Johnson in Chicago. The comes to this boxing thing. "I'm 23-year-old from Brooklyn will conquering my mind because once er, and said: "The Vuelta wasn't join the paid ranks on the same bill I do that, nobody, and I mean no- originally on my program. "To- r et u r n ed as Beterbiev's IBF light-heavy- body in this world, can stop me. I gether with the management we weight title fight with Johnson on will be exciting to watch, believe came to the decision that doing it the Matchroom USA bill at the me. after the Tour would be another em p h a t ica lly Wintrust Arena on October 6, live Nkosi Solomon good chance to get some experi- on Sky Sports. Callum Johnson "I have a dream to accomplish ence in riding multiple Grand has branded Artur Beterbiev a and I'll be damned if I am going to Tours in one year. "It's pretty dif- 'beast', but insists his knockout let another man get in there and ficult to replicate the fatigue of a power can topple the fearsome have his will beat my will. It's a Grand Tour in training so the op- IBF light-heavyweight king. So- surreal feeling. I've been chasing Chicago and show what I've got. exciting to watch, believe me." portunity of riding the Vuelta with- lomon has already been hailed as a this dream for so long, to become "I've got an educated style - I'm a Doncaster's Gavin McDonnell also out the stress of riding GC will be future star by promoter Eddie the undisputed heavyweight cham- boxer-puncher, I want to be out makes his US debut as he challeng- a good step towards gaining more Hearn and the former Team USA pion of the world. "As you get clos- there being smart and using my es WBA super-bantamweight experience not just in racing over fighter has vowed to become a er, it feels amazing. The support mind. Don't get me wrong, I like to champion Daniel Roman. New three weeks but also in following dominant champion in the top di- I've had already is amazing and I fight, but the point of this game is Yorker Jarrell Miller, another US all the routines and day-to-day vision. "My dream is right in front just cannot wait to get started in to hit and not get hit - but I will be heavyweight. stuff that goes on in a Grand Tour." Manchester United confident goalkeeper David de Gea will sign a new deal

Manchester United are confident Spaniard's present deal at Old Traf- goalkeeper David de Gea will sign ford expires in 2019 with a further a new long-term contract at Old year existing as an option to be Trafford following Thibaut Cour- triggered by the club. The Trans- tois’ move to Real Madrid, Sky fer Talk panel discuss the fallout Sports News understands. The 27- from Deadline Day, including Man Johanna Konta was eliminated needed just 66 minutes to romp to year-old has been repeatedly linked Utd's failure to sign a centre-back. from the Western & Southern a 6-1 6-2 victory. Twenty-three with a move to the Bernabeu since De Gea, who was signed by Sir Open in Cincinnati in the first time Grand Slam champion Will- 2015, when United and Real agreed Alex Ferguson from Atletico round on Monday night. British iams is ranked No 27 in the world a £29m deal which would see Key- Madrid for £18.9m in 2011, has No 1 Konta was beaten 4-6 6-3 6- due a year-long hiatus after becom- lor Navas moving in the opposite won United's player-of-the-year 4 by Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka, the ing a mother, and withdrew from direction in part exchange, only for award in four of the past five sea- world No 34. It is a second con- last week's Rogers Cup for "per- the move to fall through when the sons. He is the only United player secutive defeat for Konta who lost sonal reasons". She insists that her paperwork was not completed in to win Sir Matt Busby Player of to Elina Svitolina at the Rogers best form is returning, saying: time. Courtois' transfer from the Year award - which was first Cup last week. Serena Williams, "You've got to be able to go back- Chelsea to join the European cham- introduced in 1988 - on four occa- na, Roy Keane, Ruud van Nistel- Glove award for the first time as team of the year. He has also won who had lost to Konta earlier this to-back. I don't get byes anymore pions last week means United are sions. Cristiano Ronaldo won it rooy and Wayne Rooney have each he helped United 18 clean sheets the Premier League, FA Cup, month, bounced back emphatical- right now. I'm OK with it." increasingly optimistic of agreeing three times (2004, 2007 and 2008), won it twice. Last season, De Gea and was also included in the Pro- League Cup and Europa League ly against Daria Gavrilova. She (Sky Sport) a new contract with De Gea. The while Brian McClair, Eric Canto- won the Premier League's Golden fessional Footballers' Association since joining United. Meadepleasedafter AdvertisewinsPhoenixStakes Martyn Meade hopes his first Group One winner out of the histor- took a bit of risk out of the jour- entry Stakes at Royal Ascot and like to head into retirement. "It's ic Manton yard will lead to bigger and better things to come. Meade ney, although at this time of year has proved a shrewd investment, fairly likely that he'll be retired. took on the might of Ballydoyle with Advertise in Sunday's Phoenix it wouldn't have been too bad on winning the July Stakes as well as He seems to have lost his spark Stakes at the Curragh, a race Aidan O'Brien has made his own down the the boat I imagine. "To get a Group the Phoenix Stakes since. Meade for some reason," said Meade. "I years, but it proved the correct call. Advertise is now on a short break One, so soon after moving yards, added: "Phoenix are relatively new don't want to put blinkers or vi- before a crack at the Dewhurst Stakes and Meade was pleased he took is a bit of a relief. We've won a owners, too, so to get a big win for sors on him or anything like that the step of chartering a plane for his new stable star. "He's come out of Group Two and a Group Three as them so soon will hopefully lead as he's been a great servant to us. the race very well, there's not a bother on him," said Meade. "He's going well so it couldn't have gone any to bigger and better things." It is "It would be nice if we could find to have a bit of a break now and then we'll get him ready for the Dew- better." Advertise was bought by highly unlikely Eminent will add him a place at stud, that's what we hurst, that's the plan. "I think sorting the plane out paid dividends. You Phoenix Thoroughbreds Limited to Meade's tally, though, with the are looking at doing although noth- can never be too sure and it was just one less thing to worry about. It before finishing second in the Cov- Group Two winner increasingly ing is set in stone." WEDNESDAY . AUGUST 15. 2018-Asad 24, 1397 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 24 Price: Afs.20

Congress dares Ayatollah Khamenei Did Trump Netflix Work on TAPI US won’t benefit releases Donald Trump project at normal from imposing PM to dissolve Lok blames Rohani for forget his own first images says PGA winner pace: Minister sanctions on Iran Sabha, hold early Iran’s economic Afghanistan from the Brooks Koepka is polls with states ills, Riyal fall strategy? Chilling ‘a man of steel’ Adventures Page 3 Page 5 Page 4 Page 9 Page 6 of Sabrina Page 10 Page 11

itants. Atta Salim, deputy chief of The Guardian has quoted a ber dialogues with US officials. ghan peace process particularly the AT News Report the High Peace Council has told Taliban source in the Quetta coun- The source has called the pre- Eid festival ceasefire. the Guardian that this (US-Tali- cil as saying that the fourth round vious talks “useful”, hoping that Political experts say that any KABUL: The government of Af- ban talks) was a strategic develop- of talks between Taliban and US the fourth round that is also sched- agreement between Taliban and the ghanistan is optimistic to the di- ment. “Our prediction was that officials would begin in Septem- uled to be held in Doha, would have United States would help the peace rect talks between Taliban repre- Taliban will reach this round. We ber. The source who has wished developments. program in Afghanistan. sentatives and the US diplomats, were prepared and will attend the anonymity because of the senti- But Taliban’s official spokes- “I believe that this is a strate- because it believes such dialogues initial meetings and will talk to the ment of the issue, has said that the man has rejected the report. gic step towards the Afghan-led would help negotiations between armed Taliban on behalf of the peo- Taliban would hold talks will the The US secretary of state has and Afghan-owned talks,” said Kabul administration and the mil- ple of Afghanistan,” said Salim. Afghan officials after the Septem- recently asked Saudi to help Af- Khaled Sadat, a political analyst.

AT News Report key Government offices, critical infrastructure has been damaged. KABUL: People faced shortage of Communications networks and the food, water and medicine in south- electricity supply are currently ern Ghazni as fighting between the down in Ghazni, resulting in wa- armed forces and the Taliban trig- ter shortages due to non-function- gered a closure of routes leading to al pumps. There were reports of the city, said UN agency on Tues- one airstrike within the city and day. The United Nations Office for several others outside of the city the Coordination of Humanitarian targeting positions of the armed Affairs on Tuesdayvoiced concerns group. So far the fighting has re- that the presence of the Taliban in portedly resulted in 110 to 150 ci- civilian homes and market places vilian casualties. The numbers still AT News Report become the biggest business part- workers quickly lost half of their has heightened the risk of civilian need to be verified. Some patients ner for Afghanistan in the past two savings just after Iran’s currency casualties arising from any military were able to reach First Aid Trau- KABUL: The sanctions recently years, according to reports. The fell against the US dollar. This is aerial response, while the place- ma Posts outside of the city and announced by the US government Afghan Chamber for Commerce the biggest impact from the sanc- ment of improvised explosive de- approximately 20 patients in crit- on Iran would not hurt Afghan says that Afghanistan is not a pro- tions,” Hafezi said. Another econ- vices along highways has prevent- ical conditions were transported to business, the government said, cit- ductive country and imports its omist, Sayed Massoud also says ed civilians from safely fleeing the Kabul by a medical NGO for fur- ing “different sources” link Kabul essentials from abroad. It said food- that Afghan workers would be the violence. Following attacks against ther treatment. Markets... P3 to the world markets. President stuff, clothes, construction mate- most victims of the sanctions. Ashraf Ghani’s Spokesman, Shah rials, iron, oil and machineries are “Afghans will need to leave Iran Hossein Mortazavi, said Tuesday imported from Iran. Azerakhsh- under the economic pressure and that the sanction could hurt some Hafezi, head of the chamber’s in- return home. This will be a crisis other regional countries’ economy. ternational relations believes that in the current situation,” Massoud “As the closure of Pakistan bor- the US sanctions on Iran would said. “Another impact is the smug- der did not affect foodstuff and not put serious impact on Afghan- gling of currencies from Afghani- other essentials in Afghanistan, we istan economy in importing of oil stan, political problems that come will not be hurt if our other neigh- and other essentials, but it hurts out of religious beliefs and the boring country comes under sanc- over one million Afghans who live Chabahar port that is a replace for AT News Report commission, gathered in front the tions,” said Mortazavi. Iran has and work in Iran. “The Afghan Karachi prot.” independent election commission KABUL: The Transparent Elec- on Monday and closed its gate. tion Foundation of Afghanistan Meanwhile, the electoral offi- AT News Report added statement. Statement said (TEFA), denounced the closure of cials in Badakhshan province were that the investigation is going on electoral offices by protesters in not allowed to go to their offices KABUL: Some 17 convicted drug over the dossier of the all indicts Kabul and Badakhshan as an in- by the protesters, according to traffickers have been sentenced to by the CJTF, which after examin- sult for the constitution. Sayed Hafizullah Hashemi, short and long term in prison over ing the evidences and arguments It said that such things would spokesman of the commission. the past week, said the court of from both sides the CJTF will con- disorder electoral programs and is 35 candidates including Maul- criminal justice task force on vict the accused traffickers, added against the origin of democracy, aviTarakhil, Akbar Stanekzai, Qais Tuesday.CJTF in a press state- statement. asking the government to take prac- Hassan, Fawzia Koofi, Shayes- ment said the primary and appeal These drug dealers were arrested tical measures to reopen the offic- taBazNaseri, ZardadFaryadi, court of CJTF have convicted 17 from Kabul, Nangarhar and Herat es. “The government has to take ZiaulhaqAmarkhil and Maryam smugglers to two and half years - provinces during operations, men- legal behavior. The protesters have Koofi were dropped from the fi- five years prison. Counter Narcot- tioned statement. Some 38kg her- the right of protest, but the deci- nal list. AT News Report “If the independent election printed in abroad, according to the ics Police (CNP) has seized over oin, 140kg hashish, 16 kg crystal sion was made based on evidences They stood against the com- commission continues printing election commission. 654kg heroin, 20kg opium, over and 638 liters of alcoholic bever- from the complaints commission. plaints commission decision and KABUL: A number of political ballots ignoring the demands of Political parties offered their 534kg hashish and 600 liters of ages discovered and seized from The law does not let anybody their fans staged protests in Kabul parties called on the independent political parties, it will be respon- own electoral scheme, asking for chemical from the aforementioned the arrested smugglers, noted the close a large office of the election and Badakhshan. election commission to not print sible for the waste of millions of invalidating of voter registration convicted drug runners, added statement. commission. Isn’t it violence? Isn’t “Kabul police chief held meet- the voting ballots until the govern- dollars,” the statement said. and change of electoral system statement. On the other hand 13 All the convicted drug traffickers it insult to the constitution?” said ings with the both sides to solve ment meets their demands. The commission announced with biometric method as well as drug runners were apprehended by would have defense attorneys for Naeem Ayoubzada, head of TEFA. the problem. We call on the pro- The parties emphasized in a the final list of parliamentary elec- monitoring of the election by po- CNP through different crackdown their legal defense and will be con- Some of the candidates of the testers to not close the roads and statement released on Tuesday tion candidates from 33 provinc- litical parties and civil society. in various provinces and were hand- victed after separate judicial trials upcoming legislative election who not to make obstacles for any or- that millions of dollars would be es, saying the ballots would be The government and election ed over to CJTF for criminal pro- based on the evidence brought be- have been disqualified by the in- ganization,” said interior ministry wasted in printing the useless bal- printed according to the list. commission have rejected the of- ceedings. Two women also were fore the court and the Counter Nar- dependent electoral complaints spokesman, NosratRahimi. lots if their demands are not met. The ballots are planned to be fers. arrested among the drug runners, cotics law of Afghanistan.

housands of prisoners in the Pul-i-Charkhi jail in Kabul The American University of Af- Thave been on hunger strike ghanistan’s president Kenneth over the past four days, with some Holland issued a Facebook video stitching up their mouths, an offi- message on Tuesday appealing for cial said on Tuesday. Ibadullah the release of Kevin King and Tim- Karimi, spokesman for the Gener- othy Weeks, two of the universi- al Directorate of Jails and Deten- ty’s professors kidnapped in 2016. tion Centers, told Pajhwok Afghan August marks the second anniver- News the inmates’ demand fell sary of the kidnapping of the two outside the ambit of law. The pris- English professors. US citizen oners had not complained about King, along with Australian national Weeks, were kidnapped shortly food or water, he said. Karimi put after leaving the university com- at 2,000 the number of inmates at pound on Darulaman Road on the the Pul-i-Charkhi prison on the evening of August 7, 2016. In his eastern outskirts of Kabul. Another video message on Tuesday, Hol- 1,500 inmates are special prison- land said: “The kidnappers have ers. He added that the prisoners, asked for the exchange of our pro- lease; we therefore urge the kid- people; they are English teachers; accused of internal security crimes fessors for political prisoners be- nappers to immediately release our they have no other purpose here and other heinous offenses, want- ing held by the Afghanistan gov- innocent professors who came but to help young people in Af- ed their death penalties to be com- ernment; there is nothing the uni- here to Afghanistan for the human- ghanistan to have a bright future. muted into life imprisonment. versity can do to secure their re- itarian purpose of educating young (TOLONews)

NILLI: Local officials on Tuesday are commandos and the rest are said 33 security personnel based policemen,” he explained. in the Ajristan district of southern The security forces were ca- Ghazni province have got shelter pable of defeating the Taliban if in the Miramor district of central they attacked Miramor from Daikundi province. Ajiristan, he said. Ali Mardan, a Abdul Qadir Haidari, Miramor resident of the district, told Pajh- district chief, told Pajhwok Afghan wok that Ajiristan was under high News the 33 soldiers, five of them threat from Taliban. Soldiers and wounded, fled to the district two local officials fled to Daikundi days ago. province whenever they came un- The injured are currently under attack, he said. der treatment at a local hospital. Some reports previously said “Eight of these forces are Afghan around a hundred Afghan soldiers National Army (ANA) soldiers, 16 were missing in Ajiristan.