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www.afghanistantimes.af www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimes www.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30. 2015 -Jadi 09, 1394 HS Yo ur Yo ur ad ad he re he re 0778894038 0708954626 Security forces repel Taliban attack in sources to improve lifestyle of their peoples while combating poverty. Sharif called on President KABUL : As many as 110 jour- Uruzgan Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive nalists were killed in connection AT Monitoring Desk Officer Abdullah Abdullah during with their work or for unclear rea- his trip to Kabul on Sunday, where sons during the current year, the AT Monitoring Desk al countries. In a press statement the recent visit of Pakistan’s Chief conflict in the region. He added that they shed lights re resumption of Reporters Without Borders (RSF) KABUL: Taliban insurgents the other day, he said that the short of Army Staff Gen. Raheel Sharif Sharif’s meeting with Afghan lead- the Afghan-led peace talks. said on Tuesday. launched an assault on security KABUL: President of the Awami visit of Indian Prime Minister to to Kabul as an important step to ers was vital to restore trust be- During the meeting Afghani- At least 67 of them were tar- check-post, but ultimately failed National Party (ANP) Asfandyar Lahore could bring peace to mil- build trust between the neighbors. tween the two countries and im- stan and Pakistan agreed to take geted because of their work or were as security forces killed a large Wali Khan has termed the recent lions of people of Afghanistan, “Such meetings would help to in- prove bilateral ties because rela- actions against elements that are killed while reporting, bringing to number of Taliban insurgents in visit of Indian Prime Minister Pakistan and India. He furthered crease trust between the two neigh- tions between the two neighbor- hampering the Afghan peace pro- 787 the number of journalists tit-for-tat response in Uruzgan Narendra Modi to Kabul and his that direct contacts of leaders bors and fight extremism,” he said. ing countries remained mostly cess. They also agreed to pursue killed in connection with their province, official said. brief stopover in Lahore city of would establish stronger ties and He added that meetings between strained. The ANP chief furthered and reconciliation with the Taliban work since 2005. Afghan security forces re- Pakistan as a positive step to- ensure peace among the neighbor- leaders of the neighboring states that regional countries should fo- groups who are willing to join the Establishing the circumstanc- pelled and killed scores of Tali- wards bringing peace in the region- ing countries. Moreover, he called could also decrease the threats of cus on peace and utilize their re- process. ban insurgents when they at- es or motives of this year’s 43 oth- tempted to attack their security er deaths of journalists has been chick-post in Shahid Hasas area, impossible, the Paris-based group located in the outskirts of Uruz- Decrees rejection damaging said, adding27 citizen-journalists gan province. 38 Daesh and seven media workers were Provincial governor’s spokes- also killed in 2015. man, Dost Mohammad Nayab, electoral reform process: ACSEN It linked the disturbing situa- said that the clash between secu- tion to deliberate violence against rity forces and militants lasted for fighters killed in KABUL : The Afghan Civil Soci- journalists and the failure of the several hours. Moreover, he said ety Election Network (ACSEN) initiatives so far taken to protect that 22 Taliban insurgents were on Tuesday said sending presiden- media personnel. killed in the battle. “Two police- tial decrees about electoral reforms France, was identified as one men were killed and several oth- Nangarhar to the Wolesi Jirga for approval of the deadliest countries for jour- ers received injures during the was against the Constitution. The nalists. France ranked third behind AT Monitoring Desk strikes on hideouts of IS militants gunfight,” he said. Nayab fur- in two different areas of Chapar- network said the rejection of pres- India and Iraq. thered that hundreds of Taliban idential decrees about electoral re- The January attack on Charlie KABUL: At least 38 Islamic State har district of the province. It add- insurgents took part in the attack ed that the airstrikes hit hideouts forms by the lower house was Hebdo contributed to a reversal of against security forces. But he (IS) militants have been killed in damaging the electoral reform pro- last year’s trend, when two thirds airstrikes conducted by the Afghan of militants in Sulemankhel area of said that Afghan security forces the district leaving 36 rebels loyal cess. of the deaths occurred in war repelled their attack. However, Air Force in eastern Nangarhar The Wolesi Jirga has recently zones, RSF said. In a statement, province, said officials on Tues- to Mullah Naeem and Habibzai he said that Taliban closed main dead. Two other fighters who rejected a number of presidential RSF Secretary-General Chris- route to Tarin Kot city to pre- day. decrees about electoral reforms in- tophe Deloire said: “The creation The 201st Selab Military wanted to escape the scene were vent security forces from shift- also killed by security forces. The cluding one amending the law on 109 of the Constitution, propos- electoral bodies until the fate of of a specific mechanism for enforc- ing injured people to hospital. Corps in a press statement said responsibilities and composition ing international law on the pro- that Afghan Air Force launched air- strikes also destroyed 22 heavy als for amending electoral law shall the presidential decrees became Taliban had not commented yet. weapons including eight rockets. of the Independent Election Com- not be included in the agenda of clear. Sughra Saadat, a member of tection of journalists is absolutely The statement further said that mission (IEC) and the Independent parliament during the last year of ACSEN, said the selection com- essential,” Afghan forces arrested a command- Electoral Complaints Commission the legislative term. “We request mittee’s performance had slowed In his annual report on the er of militants in Torkham. The (IECC). ACSEN said referring the Meshrano Jirga to review pres- after the Wolesi Jirga rejected pres- safety of journalists and the issue commander was identified as Gula presidential decrees about election idential decrees about electoral re- idential decrees. of impunity in August 2015, UN Jan, who was active in Sarobi dis- reforms to the Wolesi Jirga was forms and decide based on nation- She said delaying the selection Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon trict of Kabul. “The commander against Article 109 of the Consti- al interests,” she said. ACSEN committee work could leave nega- said: “I am deeply concerned about was in Pakistan and he wanted to tution. It said the rejection of de- asked the president to approach tive impact on electoral reform and the failure to reduce the frequency return to Afghanistan. This comes crees by the Wolesi Jirga meant the Supreme Court about the Arti- parliamentary elections. The selec- and scale of targeted violence that just one day after Afghan Air Force that lawmakers did not want re- cle 109 of the Constitution to clar- tion committee started its work journalists face and the near abso- killed 68 fighters of IS, also known forms in the electoral regime. ify whether the Wolesi Jirga could two weeks ago and so far the body lute impunity for such crimes.” AT Monitoring Desk were also among the immigrants. Shakila Barakzai, a senior The PCG in a press statement is- as Daesh in Achin and Chaparhar amend the electoral law in its last has held only two meetings. Also RSF has been producing its annual KABUL: The Pakistan Coast district of Nangarhar. In the member of ACSEN, told a news year of legislative term. ACSEN on Tuesday, the Fikar wa Amal round-up of violations against jour- sued on Monday said the immi- conference here that the contents Guard (PCG) has arrested 52 al- grants wanted to illegally enter province, Daesh militants have re- stressed the reform process should Jirga asked the government to dis- nalists for the past 20 years. leged illegal immigrants, including cently launched an anti-govern- of presidential decrees had no le- continue and said the selection solve the selection committee and It is based on precise data Iran. “The arrested people were gal problems but referring them to 27 Afghan nationals, near Shahja- handed over to the Federal Inves- ment radio station called “Voice of committee should continue its announce dates for holding parlia- gathered by the group in the course han check post near Gwader the Caliphate” to attract youth to the lower house for approval was work and provide a list of nomi- mentary and district council elec- of its monitoring activities. tigation Agency (FIA) immigration against the law. Based on Article (Blochistan). Around 10 women cell,” it added. join their ranks. nees as commissioners on the two tions. (Pajhwok) (Pajhwok)

By Farhad Naibkhel being recruited by terrorist organi- discuss their challenges,” he add- zations, thus, she urged the gov- ed. He also urged the UN to im- KABUL: Youth Peace Activists on ernment to fight against extremism prove quality of education and Tuesday urged the government to and militancy. health care services for youth and later torched the drugs. increase participation of young “The government should increase raise their awareness. AT Monitoring Desk According to Saleh, the NDS men and women in promoting participation of youth in the Hinting at illegal immigration of operatives also recovered 300 ki- peace and countering extremism. peace-building efforts,” she add- youth to foreign countries, he said KABUL: The National Director- lograms of drugs on the Kabul- They urged the government to ed. She also urged the internation- that Afghan youth should stay in ate of Security (NDS) has seized Gardez highway on late Monday. implement the United Nations al organizations to lend their sup- Afghanistan and work for devel- and torched eight tons of hashish However, no arrest was made. Security Council (UNSC) 2250 port to youth organizations.The opment of their country. in central Logar province, said of- In a statement released by the resolution and engage youth in Deputy Minister of Information It is pertained to mention that ficials on Tuesday. NDS, the spy agency said that its decision-making at all levels. Fate- and Culture in Youth Affairs, Ka- UNSC adopted resolution 2250 on The provincial governor’s operatives have also seized 460 kg ma Ehsani, a peace activist, said mal Sadaat, said that efforts were Youth, Peace and Security in De- spokesman Saleem Saleh told Pa- of different types of narcotics in that the government has turned its underway to support youth de- cember, 2015. The resolution sig- jhwok Afghan News that the NDS areas around Pul-i-Alam. blind eye toward youth. She called velopment. nals the world leaders’ acknowl- operatives have seized eight tons The spy agency also recovered on the government to increase par- “Youth are the main victims of edgement of youth’s contribution of hashish in Al-Taimor area on a motorbike and 11 Kalashnikov ticipation of youth in the decision- war, thus, we urge the United Na- to countering violent extremism the suburbs of the provincial cap- magazines during the search oper- making. tions to provide a platform for the and recognizing them crucial part- ital. He said the NDS operatives ation, the statement added. She said that Afghan youth are new generation of Afghanistan to ners in building a safer world.

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76.05 73.90 This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

WASHINGTON — Even as the the Afghan government confront largest ever discovered. The as- Obama administration scrambles to what has been viewed as the more sault, which took place over sev- confront the Islamic State and re- imminent threat, the surge in vio- eral days, pounded two training surgent Taliban, an old enemy lent attacks from the Taliban, the areas — one sprawled over 30 seems to be reappearing in Afghan- Haqqani network and a new off- square miles — that featured elab- istan: Qaeda training camps are shoot of the Islamic State. Former orate tunnels and fortifications. As sprouting up there, forcing the administration officials have been many as 200 fighters were killed, Pentagon and American intelligence more outspoken — especially American officials said. agencies to assess whether they those who were on the front lines Senior administration officials could again become a breeding of the original battle to destroy Al concede that there are other Qaeda ground for attacks on the United Qaeda’s central leadership. camps or bases, including at least States. “I do worry about the rebirth one in Helmand Province, though Most of the handful of camps of AQ in Afghanistan because of they are not certain exactly how are not as big as those that Osama what their target list will be — us,” many because they were made bin Laden built before the Sept. said Michael Morell, the deputy harder to detect after the October 11, 2001, attacks. But had they director of the C.I.A. until two assault. The senior officials — four re-emerged several years ago, they years ago, whose book, “The Great from three different federal agen- would have rocketed to the top of War of Our Time,” recounts the cies — spoke on the condition of potential threats presented to Pres- efforts of the Bush and Obama anonymity to discuss confidential ident Obama in his daily intelli- administrations to destroy the intelligence assessments. gence briefing. Now, they are just Qaeda leadership. A spokesman for the United one of many — and perhaps, “It is why we need to worry States military in Afghanistan, Col. American officials say, not even about the resurgence of the Tali- Michael T. Lawhorn, declined in the most urgent on the Pentagon’s ban,” Mr. Morell said, “because, an email to discuss “any current list in Afghanistan. just like before, the Taliban will intelligence we may have on Al The scope of Al Qaeda’s dead- give Al Qaeda a safe haven.” Qaeda training camps.” ly resilience in Afghanistan ap- A senior administration offi- The two camps attacked in the pears to have caught American and cial offered a different view, say- fall were in a sparsely populated Afghan officials by surprise. Un- ing that the increased Qaeda activ- area of Kandahar Province along til this fall, American officials had ity was more the result of Paki- Afghanistan’s southern border largely focused on targeting the last stani military operations pushing with Pakistan. Some of the facili- remaining senior Qaeda leaders fighters across the border into Af- ties apparently were in place for hiding along Afghanistan’s rugged, ghanistan than Qaeda enlisting new up to a year and a half, undetected mountainous border with Paki- Afghan recruits inside the coun- by American or Afghan spies or stan. try. In October, American and Af- surveillance aircraft. At least in public, the admin- ghan commandos, backed by scores “A lot of that is because, you istration has said little about the of American airstrikes, attacked a know, it’s a very remote part of new challenge or its strategy for Qaeda training camp in the south- Kandahar,” Gen. John F. Camp- confronting the threat from Al ern part of the country that mili- bell, the top American commander Qaeda, even as it rushes to help tary officials said was one of the in Afghanistan, recalled in a meet- ing with visiting reporters two overall leader, announced the cre- tacks against Afghan or Western da militants tried to hijack at least weeks ago. ation of the affiliate in September targets in Afghanistan.” one Pakistan Navy frigate in Sep- For months, General Camp- 2014 largely in response to the rise The emergence of new Qaeda tember 2014 and to use it to attack bell has been sounding a warning of its rival, the Islamic State, which training camps comes amid a wide- United States Navy vessels on about Al Qaeda in the broader con- is also known as ISIS or ISIL. The spread erosion in security in much antiterrorism patrol in the north- text of Afghanistan’s complex wing, which American analysts of the country. “In the second half western Indian Ocean. threat environment, telling Con- say has several hundred fighters, of 2015, the overall security situa- The raid on the navy vessel gress in October that Afghan secu- is believed to be based in Pakistan tion in Afghanistan deteriorated, was foiled after a firefight. It rity forces “have thus far proven and focused on India, Pakistan and with an increase in effective insur- turned out it was carried out in part unable to eradicate Al Qaeda en- other nations in southern Asia. gent attacks and higher A.N.D.S.F. by Pakistan Navy personnel who tirely.” AQIS fighters began migrating and Taliban casualties,” the Penta- had been recruited by Al Qaeda, “Al Qaeda has attempted to from sanctuaries in North gon said in a report issued two Pakistani and American officials rebuild its support networks and Waziristan and eastern Afghanistan weeks ago, using the initials for the said. The raid, in which 10 mili- planning capabilities with the in- to the country’s southern provinc- Afghan National Defense and Se- tants died, raised fears about ter- tention of reconstituting its strike es of Helmand and Kandahar last curity Forces. rorist infiltration of the military capabilities against the U.S. home- year, after Pakistan launched a General Campbell told law- forces of Pakistan, which has nu- land and Western interests,” Gen- military offensive in the region, makers that the Pakistani-based clear weapons. eral Campbell said in his testimo- said Seth Jones, an Afghanistan militancy, the Haqqani network, In May, the leader of the new ny. specialist at the RAND Corpora- remains an important “facilitator” Qaeda branch posted a video claim- The general said that pressure tion. Kandahar and Helmand have for Al Qaeda in Afghanistan. The ing responsibility for the death of on Qaeda fighters from the United not typically been havens for Al two groups, he said, share a goal Avijit Roy, an atheist Bangladeshi- States and its Afghan allies had Qaeda. of “expelling coalition forces, over- American blogger who was killed forced them to be “more focused “It’s been a relatively recent throwing the Afghan government, on Feb. 26 by men with machetes on survival than on planning and expansion to the south,” Mr. Jones and re-establishing an extremist as he was leaving a book fair in facilitating future attacks,” but that said. state.” Rounding out the threats in Dhaka, Bangladesh. continued pressure was necessary Afghan security officials say Afghanistan, General Campbell The new Qaeda affiliate has to keep Al Qaeda from gaining new many of these foreign fighters fil- told lawmakers that the Islamic suffered some setbacks. The footholds. tering in are from Central Asia, and State’s branch in the country was group’s deputy leader was Ahmed The discovery of the large in many cases their affiliations are rapidly drawing new fighters with Farouq, an American-born militant camp attacked in October raised unknown. In the past, some of the its “virulent, extremist ideology.” who was apparently seen as a ris- questions about the American mil- groups have been affiliated with “While many jihadists still ing star in jihadist circles for some itary’s ability to detect and destroy Al Qaeda, but there have also been view Al Qaeda as the moral foun- time. In a letter to Bin Laden in a major Qaeda stronghold in the reports of some of these fighters dation for global jihad, they view 2010, which became public during country, more than 14 years after pledging allegiance to the Islamic Daesh as its decisive arm of ac- a terrorism trial in New York this the American-led invasion of Af- State. tion,” he said, using another name year, a militant of the same name ghanistan drove out Al Qaeda and One American intelligence of- for the Islamic State. was singled out as having poten- toppled the Taliban government ficial sought to play down the Citing a remark by the Afghan tial leadership potential. that supported them. menace from the new Qaeda off- president, Ashraf Ghani, General But Mr. Farouq was killed, General Campbell said at the shoot, calling it “a regional threat Campbell said, “If Al Qaeda is along with five other suspected time of the October raid that the that is currently focusing on plot- Windows 1.0, then Daesh is Win- leaders, in the same airstrike in Jan- camp was used by a new Qaeda ting attacks in Pakistan and estab- dows 7.0.” uary that also mistakenly killed an offshoot called Al Qaeda in the lishing a presence in South Asia. Al Qaeda’s branch in the Indi- American aid worker, Warren Indian Subcontinent, or AQIS. Despite its safe haven, the group an subcontinent has also plotted Weinstein, and an Italian hostage. Ayman al-Zawahri, Al Qaeda’s has not been seen conducting at- attacks outside Afghanistan. Qae- NYTIMES The coach of the Afghanistan Afghan side few months back and younger players will get better in the future. Cricket Team Inzamam-ul-Haq has they have been producing better The coach also praised his team’s performance against said that his team is one of the best results since then. They recently Zimbabwe and said that these performances show improve- T20 teams in the world and they defeated Zimbabwe in both T20 ment and he also vowed that they will qualify for the Asia will be looking to give a tough time and ODI series in Zimbabwe. Cup T20 by keeping these performances going. Afghan to the opponents in the Asia Cup Inzamam said that he has high side had also beaten Oman and Hong Kong last month. T20 tournament and World T20 hopes because there are a lot of Afghanistan is one of the emerging forces of the game Championship next year. talented cricketers in the team and and had beaten Bangladesh in the 2014 Asia Cup. They The former captain of the Pa- he is trying to find more players in also got a World Cup victory in 2015 as they edged the kistan team, Inzamam has taken the domestic cricket and in the Scotland side and would be looking to get few more in the responsibility of the coach of Under-19 team, and he is sure World T20 in India. Development projects launched in Bamyan, Uruzgan provinces The National Solidarity Program Manager in Uruzgan province, Since its inception in Bamyan province, the NSP has (NSP) of the Ministry of Rural these projects include construction been able to execute 1,393 infrastructure projects in differ- Rehabilitation and Development of a protection wall, culverts, irri- ent sectors such as transport, water and sanitation, irriga- (MRRD/NSP) have completed gation canals, retaining walls, side tion, power, livelihoods, education, etc while the work on various development projects in ditches, excavation of wells and another 686 is currently in progress in various communi- Bamyan and Uruzgan provinces. gravelling of rural roads. ties. In Uruzgan province, the NSP has been able to execute Costing AFN 59,594,000, 40 Around 5,000 families in dif- 1,259 infrastructure projects disbursing AFN 1,288,054,398 public utility projects have been ferent communities have benefit- in different sectors and work on hundreds of others is cur- completed in a number of areas in ed from these projects. rently in progress. Bamyan province with 10% con- tribution from the local communi- ties. According to NSP Provincial Manager in Bamyan province, these projects include the con- struction of four community cen- ters, a water reservoir at a capaci- ty of 1,855 square meters, a pro- tective wall 7,862 meters in length, a 365-meter irrigation canal, cul- verts and gravelling of 610 meters of rural roads. Approximately, 2,697 families in different communities had an opportunity to gain access to ba- sic human needs upon completion of these projects. The NSP completed 20 wel- fare projects in the districts of Dehrawod, Chora, Khas Urozgan and Gizab and in a number of ar- eas in Terinkot, the center of Uruz- gan province. The projects were implement- ed at a total cost of AFN 26,000,000 with 10% contribution from the local communities. According to NSP Provincial This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF.

WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

he Globe’s B.C. bureau is profiling 10 young people under 20 who are doing great things in fields ranging from arts to science to activism. founded, Little Women for Little in Afghanistan for one year. They One was allegedly forced into an Alaina Podmorow loved school. So Women in Afghanistan has raised were able to hire four. arranged marriage and horrifically when she heard many girls in Af- more than $500,000. Ms. Pod- Ms. Podmorow said chapters beaten. ghanistan couldn’t go, either due morow has received several acco- of the group – or “Littles,” as “These girls, regardless of what to a lack of resources or the threat lades and has even spoken at the they’re called – have sprung up in had happened to them, these hate- of violence, she decided she had to United Nations. other parts of Canada and the Unit- ful things that had been inflicted help. Ms. Podmorow remembers ed States. She said one team is just upon them, these girls still wanted Ms. Podmorow, from the Brit- well the moment the group was starting up in Switzerland. Ms. to become educated, they still EMERGENCY ish Columbia Okanagan commu- born. She was attending a speech Podmorow’s group is the youth wanted to go to school and they nity of Lake Country, launched by journalist and human-rights ac- affiliate for Canadian Women for wanted to make a difference,” she CALLS Little Women for Little Women in tivist Sally Armstrong. Ms. Arm- Women in Afghanistan. said. Afghanistan, a non-profit aimed at strong discussed, among other Ms. Podmorow’s lone trip to Also in 2012, the federal gov- Police providing educational funds and things, the hardships faced by girls Afghanistan was in 2012. She trav- ernment announced Ms. Pod- supports for Afghan girls. in Afghanistan. elled in a small group that included morow would serve as honorary She was nine years old. “They couldn’t go to school, her mother. youth ambassador at the inaugural 100 - 119 “Being a kid, there’s a lot of which was the most shocking thing Part of what she saw was International Day of the Girl. As a naiveté toward the world. Once for me among many other horrible heartbreaking. She said the educa- result, she was able to give a speech Hospitals you get older, you sometimes un- human-rights violations,” Ms. tional resources that were available at the United Nations headquar- Podmorow said. “Knowing how to boys in Afghanistan were not ters in New York. Ms. Podmorow derestimate your abilities or you FMIC Hospital wonder if you can actually make a much I loved going to school, how always available to girls. said she was able to meet girls from change, if you can actually make a much I appreciated being able to For instance, she said she around the world and learn about Behind Kabul Medical difference. Being nine, I didn’t have learn something new every day, it would see boys’ classrooms that the challenges they face. University: any of those thoughts,” Ms. Pod- just really hit home for me that had new desks, new chairs and Ms. Podmorow is now a stu- morow, now 18, recalled in an in- these girls didn’t necessarily get abundant writing supplies. In dent at the University of British 0202500200-+93793275595 terview. that same opportunity.” some girls’ classrooms, she said, Columbia’s Okanagan campus. She “I thought if I could do any- The group’s first event was a the chairs wouldn’t have seats and said she wants to major in politi- Rabia-i-Balkhi Hospital thing, even if I could raise $10, $20, silent auction, which coincided desks would be broken. cal science. it would still be making a differ- with a Rotary Club potluck. Ms. Ms. Podmorow said she also She doesn’t plan to give up her Pule Bagh-e- Umomi ence.” Podmorow had hoped to raise met girls who told her they had advocacy work any time soon. 070263672 It has been a common refrain since remote combat outpost in Kunar Nearly a decade after it was enough money to hire one teacher been subjected to extreme violence. Theglobeandmail America’s armored bashing of Sad- province. At one point I asked the dam Hussein in Desert Storm that young lieutenant leading the pa- Khairkhana Hospital the United States has the greatest trol how hard it was for the Tali- 0799-321007 military in the history of the world. ban to operate in his zone. “Well, Aside from being questionable in basically we own no more than one 2401352 its accuracy, this hubristic belief hundred meters on either side of among American political leaders this road. The Taliban have free and opinion makers reveals a deep- rein everywhere else.” As an after- Indira Gandhi Children ly flawed understanding of what thought he added, “Actually, it’s combat power can actually probably more accurate to say Hospital, Wazir Akbar achieve. It also exposes a troubling we influence things one hundred Khan, Kabul 2301372 difficulty many have with under- meters either side of the road.” standing the difference between In the most important area to strategy and tactics. Together the American security interests, sup- Ibn-e- Seena two misconceptions result in con- ported by a large number of troops tinuously flawed policy decisions, and reinforced by unmatched aeri- WAR-AFFECTED Pul-e-Artan, Kabul and American interests continue to al and satellite reconnaissance (not 2100359 suffer as a result. to mention on-call fighter jet sup- The latest example came last port) all we could do was influ- Tuesday when CNN’s Wolf ence the area near the road. The KUNDUZ Wazir Akbar Khan Blitzer asked Rep. Brad Sherman Taliban had almost complete free- Hospital (D-CA) if he felt the United States dom to operate everywhere else in should leave 10,000 U.S. troops that part of the country. I saw vir- 2301741, 2301743 in Afghanistan. Rep. Sherman’s tually the same story in areas of CIVILIANS response exposed a common and the east and south of Afghanistan. deeply held misunderstanding of This isn’t to suggest the troops Ali Abad what combat troops can accom- were not disciplined and highly Shahrara, Kabul plish. When asked if troops should proficient at their craft. But they RECEIVE stay, the congressman replied, “I aren’t Marvel comic book charac- 2100439 think so,” and then explained why ters. They can’t do the impossi- the troops were necessary. “If we ble. The Women's Council of the Na- Class 12, is also taking lessons. She ignore the Middle East, the Mid- Yet it seems many leaders and tional Islamic Movement in Af- said she is now able to drive a car. Malalai Maternity dle East will still not ignore us,” he policy-makers base their foreign ghanistan has launched a driving "I was very interested in learn- HUMANITARIAN Hospital said, adding, “We have been policy recommendations on just school for women in Jawzjan – the ing to drive and I was encouraged dragged into this civil war. . . for such a belief. It is understandable first in the province. by my family to learn," Kamila 2201377/ 2301743 the future of Islam.” There is in how American leaders would de- And the driving school, in She- said adding that other women this exchange a wholly unques- sire the strategic outcome of se- berghan, the provincial capital, is should do the same. ASSISTANCE Banks tioned assumption that 10,000 curing Afghanistan. But before sug- proving a hit with the ladies. "It's very necessary that we U.S. troops on the ground in Af- gesting a given number of combat In just a few weeks, 64 wom- learn to drive in any situation. I Da Afghanistan Bank ghanistan will make a positive stra- troops can accomplish this goal, en have signed up for courses at am asking all of them as sisters to tegic impact. It will not I was de- they have to understand what can the school. learn to drive," she said. 2100302, 2100303 ployed to Afghanistan in 2010 and be tactically achieved by those Breaking away from tradition, She said her training will last 2011 at the height of the famous troops in the terrain and against many of them said being able to for 45 days and once complete she Bakhtar Bank surge when the United States had that enemy. One doesn’t have to drive was important. will get a certificate. 100,000 troops on the ground. At be a twenty-year combat veteran One driving student, Khojis- Meanwhile, Roya Zelal, the 0776777000 that time Kandahar and Helmand to understand why. ta, said: "It is very important for a head of the Women's Council of Azizi Bank provinces in the south and Kunar In order to pacify a given geo- woman to learn to drive because National Islamic Movement of province in the east were three of graphic area, a combat unit must most of the time the women are at Afghanistan, said that there is a 0799 700900 the most contested areas of Af- be able to successfully accomplish home and the men are out. If any- growing interest among women to ghanistan and had the highest con- a given set of tactical tasks. If these thing happens to someone in the learn to drive. "The women need Pashtany Bank centration of U.S. forces. In a cer- tactical missions cannot be house, a woman should be able to to learn to drive. Many women 2102908, 2103868 tain operation I joined an Ameri- achieved, then strategic failure is drive the person to hospital." asked us to launch this training," can infantry unit on a patrol to a certain. Nationalinterest Kamila, an 18-year-old girl in Zelal said. (ToloNews) Air Services Safi Airways After delays, A-29 attack aircraft to 020 22 22 222 Ariana arrive in Afghanistan in 2016 020-2100270 After numerous delays, A-29 Su- as the EMB-314, has been picking per Tucano attack aircraft and the up global orders in Africa, includ- Kam Air crews trained in the U.S. to fly ing commitments in Ghana, Ango- 0799974422 them will finally begin arriving in la, Burkina Faso, Mauritania and Afghanistan next year to give Senegal. Brazil, Chile, Colombia, fixed-wing ground attack capabili- the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Hotels ty to the struggling air component Guatemala and Indonesia also are Safi Landmark of the Afghan National Security A-29 customers. On Dec. 18, the Forces, according to the Pentagon. same day that the Afghan pilots KUNDUZ – More than 100 fam- civilian casualties, consisting of “We wish we had started earlier,” were graduating at Moody, De- ilies affected by the recent fighting 289 dead and 559 injured. Other 020-2203131 Defense Secretary Ashton Carter fense Secretary Ashton Carter was in the Kunduz area received hu- sources point to thousands of peo- said in Afghanistan earlier this in Afghanistan for meetings with manitarian assistance packages dis- ple displaced from their homes. SERENA month, but deliveries are now be- acting Afghan Defense Minister tributed with the support of the Sayed Aghan Atiq, MACCA ing scheduled and “will be com- Masoom Stanikzai. Carter said that UN and its partners. Area Manager for the Northeast 0799654000 pleted over the next year or so.” In “in the next few months the Af- Carried out as part of the Af- Region, said that, apart from aid the most recent setback, two Af- ghan Air Force will start to take ghan Civilian Assistance Pro- packages, assistance includes long- New Rumi Restaurant ghans in the pilot training program the sacrifices these graduates have offered its AT-6B Texan II for the off with greater firepower into the gramme (ACAP) – a countrywide term support to war-affected ci- at Moody Air Force Base near made will help establish a secure, close air support mission. In 2013, air” when the A-29s arrive. He said project that provides humanitari- vilians through a physical rehabil- 0776351347 Valdosta, Georgia, went missing stable and unified country,” accord- the A-29 again won an Air Force that the aircraft “will be a key ele- an aid to people affected by con- itation service and vocational train- on Dec. 8 just before they were to ing to an Air Force release. The fly off against the AT-6B Texan II ment to increasing the superiority flict, mines and explosive remnants ing center. Abdul Matin, who lost Internet Services and Embraer again secured the con- of Afghan forces over Taliban forc- of war – the Kunduz families re- one of his legs in the recent Kun- graduate. The two were initially graduates, who began training last UA Telecom reported to be pilot trainees, but February, will carry out a “vitally tract. The Super Tucanos carry es.” “The future for Afghanistan ceived a variety of food and non- duz conflict, said he was happy to Staff Sgt. Eric Summers, a spokes- important mission” which “sim- two 12.7-mm machine guns in the that we’re building together is one food items, including water con- receive help. “I’m in contact with 0796701701 / 0796702702 man at Moody, said last week that ply stated is to help build the fu- wings, and they can be configured where they have their own air forc- tainers and bedding materials, from the physical rehabilitation people they were maintenance personnel. ture of Afghanistan. This gradua- with underwing weapons, includ- es,” he said. the Mine Action Coordination to have a prosthesis leg made for Exchange Rate The two — Mirwais Kohistani tion marks the first step in this ing additional 12.7-mm machine “That’s why the importance of Centre of Afghanistan (MACCA) myself,” he said, noting that peo- and Shirzad Rohullah — were still monumental undertaking,” Nichols guns, rockets pods and precision- the delivery of the A-29 here is so which is supported by the UN ple are tired of conflict and want Purchase: missing as of Monday. “We are said. Maj. Gen. James Hecker, the guided or “dumb” bombs. About important.” The two maintenance Mine Action Service. the parties to stop the violence. actively working to locate these 19th Air Force commander, sand eight of the A-29s were expected personnel who went missing from Since the Kunduz conflict, Mother-of-six, Parikhal, lost her two individuals in coordination pilot training normally takes two to begin arriving in Afghanistan next Moody were not the first Afghans more than 500 affected families husband in the recent conflict in One US$ = with the State Department and the to three years, “depending on year, possibly as early as January, to walk away from a training pro- have received a variety of food and Kunduz. Parikhal, who uses one 68.02Afs to replace the Afghan Air Force’s non-food assistance as part of name, said she is grateful to receive Department of Defense,” said which aircraft they are going to but gram in the U.S. In Sept. 2014, One Pound Sterling= Bryan Cox, a spokesman for Im- they (the Afghans) had to push it Russian-made Mi-35 “Hind” heli- three Afghan National Army of- ACAP, with further aid distribu- an aid package, although she ex- migration and Customs Enforce- up because they need to get over copters for close air support. How- ficers — Maj. Jan Mohammad tion planned in the province. pressed uncertainty as to how she 100.52Afs ment in Atlanta. “We have no in- there and get in the fight.” The nine ever, Afghanistan officials in Oc- Arash, Capt. Mohammad Nasir Between 28 September and 13 will manage to support her family One Euro = tober said they were negotiating October, Kunduz city residents in the long term. UNAMA is man- formation to lead us to believe at Afghan pilots were to be the first Askarzada and Capt. Noorullah 73.87Afs this time that they pose any spe- of 30 who will be trained at Moody with Russia for more Mi-35s. The Aminy – disappeared from a trip experienced the Taliban’s attack dated under UN Security Council cific threat,” he added. “We are over the next three years with the A-29s would also bolster the Af- to a shopping mall on Cape Cod, and temporary occupation of the resolution 2210 (2015) “to moni- 1000 Pak Rs = examining a variety of electronic Super Tucanos. The Air Force has ghan Air Force’s machine gun and Massachusetts. The three were in city and the counter-offensive by tor the situation of civilians, to 632Afs and physical information and fol- been working to get a fixed-wing rocket-equipped Mi-17 “‘Hip” a training program at a National pro-Government forces up to the coordinate efforts to ensure their lowing those leads where they take attack aircraft to the Afghan Air and U.S.-made MD 530F Cayuse Guard facility at Joint Base Cape point they regained control of the protection, to promote account- Sale: us.” The two were training with Force since at least 2011. In 2012, Warrior helicopters in the ground Cod. After a $1,200 cab ride to Nia- city. There was also conflict else- ability and to assist in the full im- One US$ = the 81st Fighter Squadron at a $428 million contract was award- attack role The capabilities and gara Falls, New York, the three where in Kunduz province. plementation of the fundamental 68.22 Afs Moody, which graduated nine Af- ed to the Brazilian company Em- ease of maintenance of the A-29s were picked up by Canadian bor- A special report released in freedoms and human rights provi- One Pound Sterling= ghan pilots from the training pro- braer S.A. and its American part- have made the prop aircraft the der guards as they tried to cross December by UNAMA and the sions of the Afghan Constitution gram on Dec. 18. At the gradua- ner, the Sierra Nevada Corp., for choice of low-budget air forces into Canada. One of the three re- Office of the UN High Commis- and international treaties to which 101.32Afs tion ceremony, Col. John Nichols, 20 A-29 single-engine turboprops worldwide, both for surveillance portedly was granted asylum in the sioner for Human Rights docu- Afghanistan is a State party, in One Euro= the 14th Flying Training Wing with an option for another 20, but and ground attack, according to the U.S. while the other two were de- mented civilian deaths and injuries particular those regarding the full 74.47 Afs Commander, said, “The extraordi- the award was challenged by trade publication Defense Indus- ported to Afghanistan. during the period. The report pro- enjoyment by women of their hu- 1000 Pak Rs= 640Afs nary dedication of these pilots and Beechcraft Corp. Beechcraft had try Daily. The A-29, also known Military.com vided a preliminary figure of 848 man rights.” This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Pakistan in talks with US to procure latest At least 23 killed, 56 injured in suicide F-16 jets: PAF chief blast at NADRA office in Mardan

The Pakistan Aeronautical Com- export order for its JF-17 Thun- plex (PAC) on Monday rolled out der fighter at the first day of the the 16th Block 2 JF-17 aircraft and International Paris Air Show where formally handed it over to the Pa- a contract was confirmed to have kistan Air force (PAF). been signed with an Asian coun- A target of producing sixteen try, Indian media had reported. JF-17 Thunder jets was given to Eighty people were promot- the complex, said the spokesper- ing the JF-17 in Paris this year, son, adding it has now been decid- reflecting a significant marketing ed to expand the production ca- push. In comparison Indian Air pacity of the PAC Kamra. Force (IAF) is struggling with its Meanwhile, Chief of Air Staff light combat aircraft ‘Tejas’, which Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman will take another year to become said Pakistan is in negotiations ready for combat. The IAF is great- with the United States to procure ly concerned as it is down to just the latest F-16 fighter jets, but did 35 fighter squadrons while at least not specify an exact number, Ex- 44 are needed to tackle a threat press News reported. from Pakistan or China. “We are in talks with US de- In October, Minister for De- fence officials to get some latest fence Production Rana Tanveer F-16s but the deal may take some had said the country is producing time,” the Air chief said while talk- state of the art competitive defence ing to reporters after the rolling out products. “The indigenously built ceremony of the 16th JF-17 Thun- JF-17 thunder fighter has the ca- der aircraft at the PAC Kamra. pability to compete with any mod- Further, the Air chief said by ern fighter jet, including the F-16,” the year 2020, PAF will say the minister said, while addressing “goodbye to some of its old fight- the media after inaugurating the er jets, including the Mirage.” modern display center of Defense While expressing his satisfaction Export Promotion Organisation. over the production and quality level of the JF-17 Thunder he said it is at par with the F-16 in terms of performance and operations. The latest models of the jets, which are locally produced in co- operation with China, are light- weight multi-role aircraft capable of Mach 2.0 (twice the speed of sound) with an operational ceiling of 55,000 feet. The decision of expansion into At least 23 people were killed as a suicide bomber blew himself up outside the main gate of the NADRA office in Dohsera Chowk in Mardan on Tuesday. A splinter group of the Tehreek- the aircraft’s production has re- e-Taliban Pakistan, Jamatul Ahrar, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Rescue 1122 officials said at least 21 people have been killed and 28 injured. “A motorcyclist rammed his portedly been made in view of in- bike into the main gate of the NADRA office,” DPO Mardan said. An Express News screengrab Further, DIG Mardan Saeed Wazir, said the bomber was on a motorcylce and tried to terest shown by various countries enter the complex. “He stopped and blew himself up and fortunately was not able to enter the premises.” FC soldier killed, two others injured in Mastung IED blast According to the in purchasing these warplanes bomb disposal squad, 8 kilogrammes of explosives were used to carry out the attack. Ali Khan, a doctor at the district headquarters hospital confirmed the death toll and placed the from Pakistan. number of injured at “more than 40?. Further, hospital administration have said it is becoming difficult to manage the injuries. According to initial reports, the blast occurred near the gate In July this year, Pakistan was of the office and the death toll is feared to rise. Eight injured are in critical condition and are being shifted to Peshawar for treatment, DPO Mardan added. Human bodies and shattered successful in securing its first ever glass are strewn across the blast site. The area has been cordoned off and the injured are being shifted to Mardan Medical Complex. Outgoing Indian envoy TCA Raghavan visits PM Nawaz India is Asia's deadliest India attaches ISLAMABAD: Outgoing Indian High Commissioner Dr TCA country for media importance to Raghavan paid a visit to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islama- personnel: Watchdog ties with Iran: bad on Tuesday, Radio Pakistan LONDON: Nine Indian reporters the threats to journalists is now reported. were among 110 journalists killed essential." PM Modi According to reports, matters around the world in 2015, a media It said 67 journalists were Prime Minister Narendra Modi of bilateral interest including Dr watchdog group said today, dub- killed in the line of duty and an- Raghavan’s role as an ambassador said that India attaches high im- bing India as "Asia's deadliest coun- other 43 died in circumstances that portance to its relations with Iran in Pakistan came under discussion try" for media personnel, ahead of were unclear. and expressed keenness to further during the meeting. both Pakistan and Afghanistan. Another 27 non-professional strengthen ties with it, including Cross-border relations: It’s in In its annual roundup, Report- "citizen-journalists" and seven in the areas of trade, investment, India’s best interests to have peace- ers Without Borders (RSF) said other media workers were also oil and gas, connectivity and port ful neighbours, says Dr Raghavan nine journalists had been murdered killed, it said, adding that "two- development. Further, Dr Raghavan, who in India so far in 2015, some of thirds were killed in countries 'at He conveyed the views to holds a PhD in history from Jawa- them for reporting on organised peace'." "The 110 journalists killed Iran’s Minister of Economic Af- harlal Nehru University, was ap- crime and its links with politicians this year need a response that fairs and Finance Ali Tayyebnia, pointed Indian High Commission- and others for covering illegal min- matches the emergency. A special who called on him. Tayyebnia is er to Pakistan in June 2013. ing. representative of the United Na- visiting India for the bilateral Joint Prior to his appointment, Dr It said five journalists were tions secretary-general for the safe- Commission meeting co-chaired by Raghavan had served as India’s killed in the course of their work ty of journalists must be appoint- External Affairs Minister Sushma Deputy High Commissioner in Is- and four for undetermined reasons. ed without delay," it added. Swaraj. lamabad over 10 years ago. During the meeting, the Prime "Their deaths confirm India's Meanwhile, US-based Com- Minister recalled his meeting with position as Asia's deadliest coun- mittee to Protect Journalists in its Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani try for media personnel, ahead of annual report said that Syria fol- in Ufa, on the sidelines of the Sri Lanka to host International Conference both Pakistan and Afghanistan," lowed by France and Brazil are the BRICS Summit, in July. “The RSF said. top three deadliest countries for Prime Minister expressed readi- "The inadequacy of the Indian journalists. ness on the part of India to further on Science and Technology Featured authorities' response is reinforcing Nine of those killings took strengthen bilateral relations, in- the climate of impunity for vio- place in France, which was second The sixteenth Science Council of Lanka (NASSL) and the National water, energy, and knowledge of Sustainable Development in Asia, cluding in the areas of trade, in- lence against journalists," it said. only to Syria as the most danger- vestment, oil and gas, connectivi- Asia Conference on 'Science for the Science Foundation (NSF) of Sri and education in the sciences. the 16th conference will explore Noting that it had urged the ous country for the press in 2015, ty, port development,” an MEA People: Mobilizing Modern Tech- Lanka. The Science Council of Asia The annual SCA conference is three sub themes. Indian government to establish "a said the report, according to which statement said. India is already nologies for Sustainable Develop- (SCA) was formed in May 2000 held on a rotational basis so that -Opportunities in mobilizing national plan for protecting jour- 40 per cent journalists died at the engaged in the construction of ment in Asia' will be held from May to help the region more actively each member country/region can Biotechnology, Information Tech- nalists", the watchdog said, "a re- hands of Islamic militant groups Chahbahar port in Iran. 30-June 1, 2016 at Hotel Galadari, address the diverse and urgent sci- actively participate in and contrib- nology, Nanotechnology and Re- sponse that matches the scale of such as Al-Qaeda and Islamic State. In the Joint Commission meet- in Colombo. The Conference is ence-related issues common to ute to the SCA. newable Energy Technologies for ing, Swaraj said that India consid- being organized jointly by the Na- Asian countries, including popu- Under the main theme of Mo- National Development. ers Iran as an important partner tional Academy of Sciences of Sri lation problems, medical care, food, bilizing Modern Technologies for -Social Dimensions of these and expressed satisfaction at the technologies: Challenges faced by growing bilateral interaction in di- Asia in their exploitation, Risks verse area. from applying the technologies, “She underlined the efforts Protection and preservation of cul- underway to enhance bilateral eco- tural heritage. nomic cooperation in energy, in- -Climate Change: Mitigation frastructure, including shipping, of and Adaptability to the Impact ports and railways, and trade and of Climate Change, Sustainable commerce. She stressed that con- Development for Built Environ- nectivity afforded by Indian par- ment, Prevention of Natural Di- ticipation in Chahbahar Port will saster. The Conference will focus facilitate linking Afghanistan and on all areas of emerging technolo- Central Asia with India. The Irani- gies, successes in their exploitation an side suggested participation of India’s public and private sectors for national development and for in development of Chahbahar Port social welfare and the challenges and Chahbahar Free Trade Zone faced in utilizing them and how (FTZ),” a statement by the Min- they can be overcome. istry of External Affairs said. Bangladesh’s development an inspiration for Bhutan, says its speaker China to donate 1.4m liters of Speaker of the Upper House of ticipate in Bhutan’s future power projects. Bhutanese Parliament Dasho Ali briefed the delegation about the democratic system of Bangladesh and the party structure of the Sonam Kinga said this while call- Awami League. fuel to Nepal: DPM Thapa ing on Foreign Minister Abul Has- san Mahmood Ali at the foreign The Chinese government has de- He said the formal agreement for the import of fuel from China will ministry. cided to provide 1,400,000 liters be signed during PM’s China visit. Kinga is leading a 12-member of fuel worth 10m RMB to Nepal parliamentary delegation from government in grant, said Deputy Bhutan “to learn the best practic- Prime Minister and Foreign Min- es of parliamentary democracy in ister Kamal Thapa. Bangladesh”. DPM Thapa informed the They are also gaining experi- media about the agreement to im- ences of the overall digitilisation port fuel from China upon his ar- process in Bangladesh, the foreign rival at Tribhuvan International ministry said. Airport in Kathmandu on Tues- Bhutan was the first country day. to recognise Bangladesh in 1971. Earlier in October, the Chinese Mentioning the struggle of Fa- government had provided 1.3 mil- ther of the Nation Bangabandhu lion liters of petrol to Nepal to cope Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Kinga with the severe fuel crisis follow- observed that hid story is “diffi- ing the unofficial trade blockade on cult to believe but true”. Nepal-India border. Nepal Oil He also applauded the “strong Corporation brought the grant fuel and positive leadership” of Prime provided by China from Kerung Minister Sheikh Hasina for attain- of Tibet. ing self reliance in food produc- Saying that his China visit was tion, improvement in health, edu- successful, Foreign Minister cation and Information technolo- Thapa said the programme sched- gy sectors, women’s empower- ule has been fixed for Prime Min- ment, and leading climate change ister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to Chi- issues globally. na. “PM Oli will visit to China in The foreign minister reiterat- the beginning of the New Year ed Bangladesh’s interest to import 2016 during which many other electricity from Bhutan and to par- agreements will be signed,” said Oli. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief 450 Belgium arrests evacuated two on suspicion from of attack plots besieged Two people have been arrest- ed in Belgium on suspicion of Syrian areas planning attacks in Brussels could be heard as a state TV re- during the holidays, the feder- porter interviewed other soldiers Around 450 Syrian fighters and al prosecutor's office said Tues- celebrating the victory with their their families were evacuated from day. automatic weapons held in the air. two besieged areas on Monday The investigation revealed US President Barack Obama, under the kind of operation that "the threat of serious attacks vacationing in Hawaii with his fam- the United Nations hopes can be a that would target several em- ily, received an update on Mon- stepping stone towards a wider blematic places in Brussels and day on the Iraqi forces' progress in peace accord in the country's civil be committed during the end- Ramadi, the White House said. war. of-year holidays," the prose- "The continued progress of the U.N. and airport sources said cutor's office said. Iraqi Security Forces in the fight two planes with 330 Syrian Shiite The two suspects were ar- to retake Ramadi is a testament to fighters and civilians evacuated rested following searches Sun- their courage and determination, from two pro-government towns day and Monday in the Brus- and our shared commitment to in northwestern Syria arrived in sels area, the Liege region and push ISIL out of its safe-havens," Beirut airport. Hundreds of Flemish Brabant, the office the White House said in a state- Hezbollah supporters there set off said. The announcement did ment. Congratulating the Iraqi gov- fireworks in celebration. not say whether the suspects ernment, US Defense Secretary Another plane carrying 126 were male or female. Ash Carter said: "The expulsion mostly Sunni Muslim rebel fight- One was charged with act- of ISIL by Iraqi security forces ... ers trapped in Zabadani near the ing as the leader and recruiter is a significant step forward in the Lebanese border landed at Hatay of a terrorist group planning to campaign to defeat this barbaric airport in southern Turkey, the commit terrorist offenses, the group." sources said. other with participating in a In a statement, Carter added: The evacuations took place terrorist group's activities as a "Now it's important for the Iraqi under a U.N.-sponsored agreement principal actor or co-actor, the government ... to seize this oppor- brokered by regional powers, part prosecutor's office said. tunity to maintain the peace in of efforts by the United Nations During the searches, mili- Ramadi, prevent the return of ISIL to set up local deals on ceasefires tary-type training uniforms, and other extremists, and facilitate and safe passage. propaganda materials from ISIS the return of Ramadi's citizens In return for allowing the and computer material were back to the city." rebels to leave, the deal allows the seized and are being examined. American officials said the US- However, no weapons or ex- led coalition backing Iraqi forces government of President Bashar al- plosives were found, the pros- A buoyant Iraqi Prime Minister tured the city, a provincial capital a speech. "We are coming to liber- crumbled when ISIL fighters had carried out more than 630 air Assad to restore control over ar- ecutor's office said. Haider al-Abadi has said his forc- west of Baghdad. We are coming ate Mosul and it will be the fatal surged in June 2014. strikes in the area over the past six eas that had been in rebel hands Six people were taken in es will defeat the Islamic State of to liberate Mosul and it will be the and final blow to [ISIL]." Mosul, In previous battles since then, months and provided training and for the past four years. for questioning, but four were Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in the fatal and final blow to [ISIL] Haid- northern Iraq's main city, is by far Iraq's armed forces operated main- equipment. In Zabadani, a once popular released, the office said. coming year, after the military er al-Abadi, Iraq's prime minister the largest population centre in the ly in a supporting role beside Ira- The US-led coalition, which resort city now in ruins, relief The prosecutor's office claimed its first major victory since But there were still pockets of self-proclaimed caliphate ISIL nian-backed Shia militias. 'A sig- includes major European and Arab workers and rebel fighters who said no additional details would it was sent fleeing by the group 18 ISIL resistance in and around the rules in Iraq and Syria. nificant step' Soldiers were shown powers, has been waging an air have been holed up for months be made public, but that the months ago. Iraqi forces flew the city, the army said. "2016 will be The army's capture of the centre on state television on Monday campaign against ISIL positions in helped carry wounded young men probe was not connected to the national flag above the main gov- the year of the big and final victo- of Ramadi, capital of the key An- publicly slaughtering a sheep in an both Iraq and Syria since a third of in wheelchairs onto ambulances. Nov. 13 attacks in Paris, in ernment complex in Ramadi on ry, when [ISIL’s] presence in Iraq bar province, marks a major mile- act of celebration. Iraqi territory fell to the fighters in Relatives and well-wishers which numerous suspects, in- Monday, declaring they had recap- will be terminated," Abadi said in stone for US-trained forces who Gunshots and an explosion mid-2014. who had waited for hours on the cluding presumed ringleader Lebanese border cheered buses Abdelhamid Abaaoud and fu- carrying the fighters as they drove gitive Salah Abdeslam, had con- by towards Beirut airport, and nections to Belgium. Pentagon thwarts some families wept as they On Nov. 21, after the Paris strained for glimpses of their loved attacks that killed 130 and in- ones, a witness said. jured hundreds, the terrorist efforts to close Zabadani, northwest of the alert level for all of the Belgian A ship carrying more than 25,000 capital Damascus, was one of the capital was temporarily raised pounds (11,000 kg) of low-en- rebels' last strongholds along the to its maximum level. Guantanamo riched uranium materials left Iran border. Much of the town was dev- for Russia on Monday in an Irani- astated in a major offensive Aylan Kurdi’s In September, U.S. State Depart- pledge he made in the 2008 presi- an step toward honoring a July 14 launched in July against the insur- relatives go to ment officials invited a foreign del- dential election: to close the de- nuclear deal with major powers, gents by the Syrian army and its egation to the Guantanamo Bay tention center at the U.S. Naval the United States said. Lebanese Hezbollah allies. Only Canada to rebuild detention center to persuade the Base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Under the landmark nuclear several hundred rebels remain in group to take detainee Tariq Ba Obama criticized President George accord, certain U.S., European the town, where most civilians Relatives of Aylan Kurdi -- the Odah to their country. If they suc- W. Bush for having set up the pris- Union and U.N. sanctions are to have fled to nearby Madaya. toddler whose limp body was ceeded, the transfer would mark a on for foreigners seized in the "War be removed in exchange for Iran Food and aid photographed on a Turkish small step toward realizing Presi- on Terror" after the Sept. 11, 2001, accepting long-term curbs on a The evacuation deal was the beach, becoming a heartbreak- dent Barack Obama's goal of clos- attacks on the U.S., and then keep- nuclear program that the West has most significant of several local- ing symbol of the Syrian refu- ing the prison before he leaves of- ing them there for years without suspected was aimed at creating a ized truces to date, involving gee crisis -- arrived Monday in fice. trial. nuclear bomb. months of mediation among war- Canada where they hope to The foreign officials told the When Obama took office, the A key provision of the agree- rebuild their lives. ring parties. administration they would first prison held 242 detainees, down ment, negotiated by Iran with the Under the next stage, trucks Canadian media showed need to review Ba Odah's medical from a peak of about 680 in 2003. United States, Britain, China, the boy's aunt Tima Kurdi, loaded with humanitarian goods records, according to U.S. officials Today, with little more than a year France, Russia and Germany, is and basic foodstuffs will be al- who now lives in Vancouver with knowledge of the episode. The remaining in his presidency, it still Tehran’s commitment to reduce its after emigrating to Canada in stockpile of low-enriched uranium lowed through in the next few days Yemeni has been on a hunger strike holds 107 detainees. to reach thousands of civilians still 1992, in tears as she welcomed for seven years, dropping to 74 Pentagon officials denied any to below 660 pounds (300 kg). If her brother Mohammed, his much further refined, low-enriched trapped, Yacoub El Hilo, U.N. res- pounds from 148, and the foreign intentional effort to slow transfers. ident and humanitarian coordina- wife Ghousun and their three officials wanted to make sure they "No foreign government or uranium can yield fissile material children, at the airport. for nuclear weapons. tor in Syria, told reporters. could care for him. U.S. department has ever notified "As the United Nations and Tima Kurdi, from Canada, For the next six weeks, Penta- the Department of Defense that “The shipment included the stands next to a painting of her removal of all of Iran’s nuclear international community, these gon officials declined to release the transfer negotiations collapsed due agreements and truces are the foun- late nephew, Aylan Kurdi, on a records, citing patient privacy con- to a lack of information or access material enriched to 20 percent that board outside of EU headquar- was not already in the form of fab- ten statement. dations for building something big- cerns, according to the U.S. offi- provided by the Department of “This removal of all this enriched material out of Iran is a significant ger that could cover all of Syria," ters in Brussels on Monday, cials. The delegation, from a coun- Defense," said Pentagon spokes- ricated fuel plates for the Tehran Sept. 14, 2015. (AP) Research Reactor,” U.S. Secretary step toward Iran meeting its commitment to have no more than 300 kg El Hilo said. try administration officials de- man Gary Ross, a U.S. Navy com- of low-enriched uranium,” Kerry added. "Thank you to the Cana- clined to identify, canceled its vis- mander. of State John Kerry said in a writ- "We support these accords as dian people," Kurdi said. it. After the administration prom- Myles Caggins, a White they have a positive impact on ci- "Thank you to our Prime ised to deliver the records, the del- House spokesman, denied discord vilians and help bring aid and the Minister (Justin) Trudeau for egation traveled to Guantanamo with the Pentagon. "We're all com- return of normality." opening the door and showing and appeared set to take the pris- mitted to the same goal: safely and However years of government the world how everyone Strike that killed Syrian oner off U.S. hands, the officials responsibly closing the detention siege of rebel held areas with large should welcome refugees and said. The Pentagon again withheld facility," Caggins said. Former Sec- civilian populations to force insur- save lives. Thank you very Ba Odah's full medical file. retary of Defense Chuck Hagel gents to enter into truces has im- much for doing this." The ref- Today, nearly 14 years since said in an interview that it was rebel chief ‘complicates peded the flow of food and hu- ugee policy became a political he was placed in the prison and natural for the Pentagon to be cau- manitarian aid, starving many peo- issue some months back, when five years since he was cleared for tious on transfers that could result ple to death in what rights group the Canadian government ear- release by U.S. military, intelligence in detainees rejoining the fight Amnesty International has de- lier was accused of refusing and diplomatic officials, Ba Odah against U.S forces. "Look at where peace talks push’ scribed as a war crime. asylum to some members of remains in Guantanamo. most of the casualties have come The U.N.'s Syria mediator the family who since drowned. In interviews with multiple from -- it's the military," Hagel said. Russian air strikes like the one that Mark Toner said the United States Asked if Washington had aims to convene peace talks in Ottawa said it never received current and former administration The Pentagon's slow pace in ap- the applications. Abdullah killed a top Syrian rebel leader last did not provide support to Al- raised the issue with Moscow, Geneva on Jan. 25 in the latest ef- officials involved in the effort to proving transfers was a factor in week send the wrong message to loush's group and had concerns Toner said there had been conver- fort to end nearly five years of civil Kurdi, 40, father of Syrian boys close Guantanamo, Reuters found President Obama's decision to re- Aylan, 3, and Galip, 5, who groups engaged in a political dia- about its "behavior on the battle- sations between the two sides but war in which more than 250,000 that the struggle over Ba Odah's move Hagel in February, former logue to end the conflict and com- field," but noted that Jaysh al Is- he was not certain whether that people have died. were washed up drowned on a medical records was part of a pat- administration officials said. And beach near Turkish resort of plicate efforts to begin negotia- lam had fought Islamic State rebels specific issue had been discussed Iran, which backs Assad's gov- tern. Since Obama took office in in September, amid continuing tions, the U.S. State Department and was participating in the polit- directly. The U.N. mediator for ernment, and Turkey, which backs Bodrum on Wednesday, cries 2009, these people said, Pentagon Pentagon delays, President Obama as he waits for the delivery of said on Monday. ical dialogue to end Syria's civil war. Syria, Staffan de Mistura, plans the rebels, helped organize local officials have been throwing up upbraided Defense Secretary Ash- Syrian rebel chief Zahran Al- "So the strike on Alloush and to convene representatives of the ceasefires in Zabadani and the two their bodies outside a morgue bureaucratic obstacles to thwart ton Carter in a one-on-one meet- in Mugla, Turkey. (AP) loush, the leader of Jaysh al Islam others in Jaysh al Islam and other Syrian government and a broad villages in Idlib in September in the the president's plan to close Guan- ing, according to administration who commanded thousands of opposition groups do in fact com- spectrum of Syrian opposition first phase of the deal, overseen Trudeau's Liberal government tanamo. officials briefed on the encounter. has pledged to resettle 25,000 fighters in the Damascus suburbs, plicate efforts to bring about mean- groups for negotiations in Geneva by the International Committee of Negotiating prisoner releases Since then, the Pentagon has been was killed on Friday in an air strike ingful political negotiations and a on Jan. 25. De Mistura's spokes- the Red Cross. Syrian refugees by the end of with the Pentagon was like "punch- more cooperative. Administration February. that rebel sources said was carried nationwide ceasefire," Toner said man announced the timing for the The mostly Sunni Muslim ing a pillow," said James Dobbins, officials said they expect to begin out by Russian warplanes. in response to questions at a State meeting on Saturday, just a day rebel fighters going to Turkey from the State Department special rep- transferring at least 17 detainees Jaysh al Islam was a partici- Department briefing. "We need after Alloush was killed. The state- Zabadani would then be able to go After Ramadi’s resentative to Afghanistan and Pa- to foreign countries in January. pant in the Riyadh conference progress on both these efforts in ment urged participants not to be liberation, PM vows kistan from 2013 to 2014. Defense Military officials, however, con- where Syrian opposition groups the coming weeks." deterred by developments on the back to rebel-held areas in Syria Department officials "would come tinue to make transfers more diffi- agreed on common aims for pro- "It doesn't send the most con- ground. through the northern Turkish bor- to defeat ISIS to a meeting, they would not make cult and protracted than necessary, posed political negotiations to end structive message to carry out a Toner said the United States der or stay for treatment, accord- a counter-argument," he said. administration officials said. In the country's civil war and chose a strike like that," he added, noting would "encourage the opposition ing to rebel sources close to the A triumphant Iraqi Prime Min- "And then nothing would happen." particular, they cite General John former Syrian prime minister to that the United States hoped the to fully participate in this process" negotiations. ister Haider al-Abadi declared on Pentagon delays, he said, re- F. Kelly, in charge of the U.S. represent them in the dialogue. attacks would not reverse progress and not to be swayed by the air The Shi'ite Syrians leaving the Monday that the coming year sulted in four Afghan detainees Southern Command, which in- State Department spokesman toward negotiations. strike that killed Alloush. besieged towns in the north where will see his forces defeat Islam- spending an additional four years cludes Guantanamo. They said at least 25,000 civilians still live ic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Guantanamo after being ap- that Kelly, whose son was killed would be able to get to Lebanon, , after his military achieved its proved for transfer. fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan, where Hezbollah would be able to first major victory since collaps- In other cases, the transfers of opposes the president's policy of watch over them, added the sourc- ing in the face of the fighters 18 six prisoners to Uruguay, five to closing Guantanamo, and that he es. months ago. Kazakhstan, one to Mauritania and his command have created ob- They are then expected to go Iraqi forces flew the nation- and one to Britain were delayed stacles for visiting delegations. back to other parts of Syria, Syri- al flag above the main govern- for months or years by Pentagon Kelly denied that he or his com- an Minister of National Reconcil- ment complex in Ramadi earlier resistance or inaction, officials said. mand has limited delegation visits. in the day, declaring they had iation Ali Haider said on Hezbol- To slow prisoner transfers, "Our staff works closely with the lah's Manar TV station on Mon- recaptured the city, a provincial Pentagon officials have refused to members of Naval Station Guan- capital west of Baghdad which day. provide photographs, complete tanamo Bay and Joint Task Force In another local deal earlier this fell to ISIS fighters in May. medical records and other basic Guantanamo to support the visits “2016 will be the year of month, Syrian government officials documentation to foreign govern- of all foreign delegations," he said said they had agreed for rebel fight- the big and final victory, when ments willing to take detainees, in a written statement, "and have Daesh’s presence in Iraq will be ers to withdraw with their weap- administration officials said. They never refused or curtailed one of ons from the last insurgent-held terminated,” Abadi said in a have made it increasingly difficult these visits." Even if Obama man- speech broadcast on state tele- area of the city of Homs. Despite for foreign delegations to visit ages to transfer all low-risk detain- that, there have been two major vision, using an Arabic acronym Guantanamo, limited the time for- ees to other countries, closing for ISIS that the hardline group bomb attacks in the city in the last eign officials can interview detain- Guantanamo won't be easy. Sev- two weeks.Another deal, which rejects. “We are coming to liber- ees and barred delegations from eral dozen prisoners considered too ate Mosul and it will be the fa- sought to extract over 2,000 ISIS spending the night at Guantana- dangerous to release would have fighters from south Damascus, ran tal and final blow to Daesh,” he mo. to be imprisoned in the U.S., a added. Mosul, northern Iraq’s Partly as a result of the Penta- step Republicans in Congress ad- aground last week, a day after a main city, is by far the largest gon's maneuvers, it is increasingly amantly oppose because, they say, top rebel commander was killed in population centre in the self. doubtful that Obama will fulfill a it would endanger American lives. an air strike. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF.

WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30 2015

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: Abdul Saboor Sarir Phone No: +93-772364666 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.afghanistantimes.af Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Advisory editorial board By Robert Fisk The news from Afghanistan is Saduddin Shpoon, Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, very bad. No one says that, of Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal course. President Ghani has a “national unity government” Graphic-Designers: that “supports a strong part- Mansoor Faizy and Edriss Akbari nership with the United States”, according to Barack Marketing & Advertising: Obama two months ago. Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0708954626, 0778894038 Sure, Kunduz was captured Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan by the Taliban – but then the Afghans got it back (though Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 minus one American-bombed Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press hospital, along with most of its WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30 2015 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By Robert Fisk Sangin. Not at all. After all, “we at least one beheading, days of ISIS leader’s The news from Afghanistan is always knew that the situation beatings, more videos of the very bad. No one says that, of once we left Sangin would be Shias wearing suicide belts. latest threats course. President Ghani has a difficult. We left Afghanistan in Only after nine months were “national unity government” a situation where the Afghans they freed, after an armed as- reveal plans that “supports a strong part- were in control and the future sault on their Isis captors by nership with the United was in their hands. It is not a the Taliban. Yes, the bad guys for 2016 States”, according to Barack great surprise that the Taliban suddenly turned into the good By Dr. Theodore Karasik Obama two months ago. have continued to push in guys, the same bad guys who I believe that ISIS is looking for- Sure, Kunduz was captured southern Afghanistan, it’s their have captured Sangin, but are ward to the Gregorian New Year. by the Taliban – but then the heartland.” now fighting the even-more The dozens of videos released by multiple arms of the ISIS media Afghans got it back (though So Isis men are now fight- horrid bad guys. If this wasn’t empire in the past weeks, capped minus one American-bombed ing in their thousands in the tragic, it would be farce. with ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Bagh- hospital, along with most of its country we arrived to “liberate” And, just for good measure, dadi’s audio speech a few days ago,

Afghans got it back (though Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 minus one American-bombed Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press hospital, along with most of its patients and doctors). Sure, Sangin was captured The constitution says by the Taliban – but now the Afghan army is fighting to get it back. But didn’t more than a Article 96 hundred British soldiers die to If the proposal for drafting a law includes imposition of new taxes or hold Sangin? Sure, but Ameri- reduction of state incomes, it shall be included in the work agenda of the can troops in Iraq died to hold National Assembly on condition the compensation source shall also be and keep Mosul – and Mosul forecasted in the text of the proposal. is now the home of the Isis lead- er, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. And US troops in Iraq died to cap- ture Fallujah, then lost it, and died all over again to recapture it – and Fallujah is now in the hands of Isis. We don’t do “bad news” from Afghanistan or Iraq. It’s like a movie, replayed over and Cost of free speech over again each Christmas. Just two weeks ago, General John F The Reporters Without Borders, a watchdog, reported on Tuesday Campbell, the US commander that this year 110 journalists were killed in the line of duty. Since of American and Nato forces in 2005, as many as 787 journalists were killed in the world. Unfortu- the country, admitted that Isis has surfaced in Afghanistan. nately, the killers enjoy impunity in most of the cases. Justice has There could be 3,000 or not been provided to the victims in almost 95 percent of cases. 4,000 or 5,000 Isis men who are Media-persons in the war-hit country are working under extremely now trying to consolidate links to their “mothership” in Iraq difficult situation and often face threats and violence. In some prov- and Syria; note the Hollywood inces they are prevented to carry out their work. When the Taliban language here. Isis wants to insurgents seized control of Kunduz city in the late September, they establish its pre-Afghan “Kho- rasan Province” in Afghani- destroyed offices of 13 media organizations and displaced 92 jour- stan’s Nangarhar province. nalists. Amidst growing concerns about threats faced by journalists Afghans got it back (though So Isis men are now fight- horrid bad guys. If this wasn’t empire in the past weeks, capped minus one American-bombed ing in their thousands in the tragic, it would be farce. with ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Bagh- hospital, along with most of its country we arrived to “liberate” And, just for good measure, dadi’s audio speech a few days ago, patients and doctors). 14 years ago, quite apart from take the recent local story in all point to the current state of ISIS and its plans and objectives for Sure, Sangin was captured tens of thousands of Taliban Afghanistan about poor Qais 2016. It is almost as if ISIS is con- by the Taliban – but now the “pushing” in to their “heart- Rahmani who, along with his ducting an end of year report to Afghan army is fighting to get land” around Sangin (so much family and four-month-old see where it’s Key Performance it back. But didn’t more than a for Cameron’s stuff about baby, set off among the refu- Indicators (KPIs) are and what hundred British soldiers die to achievements living for ever). gee army to Europe and in Tur- comes next on its horizon. Yes, ISIS is getting hammered hold Sangin? Sure, but Ameri- And yet Obama tells Ameri- key boarded a boat to Greece in the Levant relentlessly by a can troops in Iraq died to hold cans that in the corrupt Afghan which almost immediately sank. combination of the U.S.-led Oper- and keep Mosul – and Mosul government, the US has “a se- Qais’s baby died in his ation Inherent Resolve and Rus- is now the home of the Isis lead- rious partner”, a “stable and arms. Just another Alan Kurdi, sian strikes. To boot, former er, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. And committed ally” to prevent “fu- you may say, but what struck stronghold Ramadi was recaptured by Iraqi security forces, with US troops in Iraq died to cap- ture threats”. Afghans was that Qais was a Mosul next on the Iraqi list to roll ture Fallujah, then lost it, and It was in 1940, when Ger- well-known television present- back ISIS. Other anti-ISIS opera- died all over again to recapture man soldiers were swarming er, his wife and family universi- tions and tactics are notable for it – and Fallujah is now in the into France – a rather more dan- ty-educated. The Rahmanis destroying ISIS’s economy and gerous swarm than the one were not from the poor and hud- seizing strategic chokepoints. Bagh- hands of Isis. dadi implied that he acknowledges We don’t do “bad news” Cameron obsesses about in ex- dled masses. setbacks, as his followers “may from Afghanistan or Iraq. It’s actly the same area today – that They were middle class, the find more adversity” which per- like a movie, replayed over and Churchill decided to tell Britons very people who should have haps only gives them more resolve. over again each Christmas. Just the truth. “The news from wanted to stay and build the This type of comment sounds like ISIS is beginning to suffer. two weeks ago, General John F France is very bad…” he be- new Afghanistan and to work This good news needs to be Campbell, the US commander gan. And British soldiers, in for their government, which is balanced by the bad news: ISIS is of American and Nato forces in their thousands, were dying to – I quote Obama again – still going strong in the informa- the country, admitted that Isis stem the invasion. Their “working to combat corruption, tion sphere, including its eschato- has surfaced in Afghanistan. “achievement” was not victo- strengthen institutions, and logical outlook, as well as in its regional and global plans for dis- There could be 3,000 or ry, but Dunkirk. uphold the rule of law”. ruption. Baghdadi’s taunts Ameri- 4,000 or 5,000 Isis men who are Yet we are not permitted to So just stand back and look ca and allies who are afraid to put now trying to consolidate links use this same expression – at the script. The Taliban end- boots on the ground against ISIS to their “mothership” in Iraq “very bad” – about Afghani- ed the lawless regime of the to fight because of “what waits in and Syria; note the Hollywood stan. No, Cameron had to talk Afghan militias and controlled Dabiq and Ghouta,” which is a ref- erence to what the leader describes language here. Isis wants to about an “achievement”, and almost all of Afghanistan by as the “Final Battle.” This type of establish its pre-Afghan “Kho- now the mother of a terribly 1996. But it also sheltered al- language plays well with ISIS’ au- rasan Province” in Afghani- wounded soldier speaks of her Qaeda post 9/11. So we invad- dience, wherever they may be. stan’s Nangarhar province. “desperate sense of waste”. ed Afghanistan to destroy both Running rampant To be sure, ISIS is following insurgents seized control of Kunduz city in the late September, they rasan Province” in Afghani- destroyed offices of 13 media organizations and displaced 92 jour- stan’s Nangarhar province. nalists. Amidst growing concerns about threats faced by journalists But Obama assures us that in the country, the Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah vowed America’s “commitment to Af- this year in April to enforce the Access to Information Law. He also ghanistan and its people en- dures” and Afghan forces are pledged to ensure safety of newsmen and women in the country. “fighting for their country In Afghanistan, insurgents have frequently targeted and threat- bravely and tenaciously” and ened journalists. In October 2015, the Taliban warned staff of the “continue to hold most [sic] urban areas”. Taliban success- prominent news channels of dire consequences. Last year three es were “predictable”, the US journalists were killed. In 2011 and 2010, four journalists lost their president says, but almost lives. At least 27 media-persons were killed in the country since 10,000 troops will remain in Af- 1992 with confirmed motive. Families of foreign journalists received ghanistan – even though the war is over – and 14 months justice while the perpetrators in the local journalists’ cases yet to be ago, David Cameron told our brought to the court of justice. own chaps that their achieve- Media is playing a very important role in strengthening democra- ments in Afghanistan “will live for ever”. Not any more. cy and development of the country. However, the warring parties As our very own ex-chief including the government, Taliban and Daesh had imposed multiple of the general staff, General and heavy restrictions over media to limit freedom of speech. These Dannatt, said last week, he was parties want to feed public with information of their choice. Despite “not surprised” by the fall of that journalists are trying their best to remain neutral and provide accurate information to the readers, viewers and listeners. As far as the government’s attention towards media freedom is concerned, there is no deny that it could not bring reforms in the country’s political and social structure through use of sheer force or restrict- ing mass media. The current government faced several challenges in just one year because it tried to chain media. If the government wants to resolve the current challenges includ- ing corruption, extremism, insurgency, nepotism, drug addiction, illiteracy, violence against women and girls, smuggling, child labor, rasan Province” in Afghani- wounded soldier speaks of her Qaeda post 9/11. So we invad- dience, wherever they may be. stan’s Nangarhar province. “desperate sense of waste”. ed Afghanistan to destroy both Running rampant To be sure, ISIS is following But Obama assures us that For Gen Dannatt, the future’s al-Qaeda and the vile misogy- its script announced in 2014 to America’s “commitment to Af- up to those Afghan army chap- nist, murderous and undemo- expand in the Levant into the up- ghanistan and its people en- pies now. No big deal; we al- cratic Taliban. per tier of the Arabian Peninsula dures” and Afghan forces are ways knew the Taliban would But the Taliban was not by 2019. These heathens still run “fighting for their country fight on. conquered. And now it is win- rampant and firmly believe in their stated goals. While many of us see bravely and tenaciously” and You only have to read Af- ning. And today, we surely the change of year as “turning over “continue to hold most [sic] ghan journalists’ reports from want it to fight against the even a new leaf,” ISIS may do the same urban areas”. Taliban success- the country to know that even more vile, misogynist and mur- Theodore Karasik es were “predictable”, the US the old Churchillian “very bad” derous Isis. Which is why, ISIS wants to destabilize Leb- president says, but almost is a bit on the optimistic side. tucked away at the end of his anon, Israel, Jordan and Gulf states. The messaging is clear: ISIS 10,000 troops will remain in Af- Take the case of the Shia Mus- peroration to the American peo- is continuing to challenge its ene- ghanistan – even though the lim Hazara Afghans taken from ple, mies near and far. Baghdadi’s war is over – and 14 months a bus on the way to Kabul this Obama said that everyone threats should be taken seriously ago, David Cameron told our year. The lads from Isis stopped should “press the Taliban… to as we enter 2016. In addition, ISIS’s own chaps that their achieve- the bus, abducted 30 Shias and do their part in the pursuit of branches, notably the Sinai and Libyan outfits, are still active and ments in Afghanistan “will live wanted to exchange them for the peace the Afghans de- are seemingly not planning on de- for ever”. Not any more. family prisoners – Uzbeks, it serve”. So the horrid Taliban grading their capabilities in the new As our very own ex-chief seems – in Afghan government can become the good, brave year. In addition, ISIS is energetic of the general staff, General hands. Taliban again. Truly, the news in other parts of North Africa, Ye- men and in Afghanistan where Dannatt, said last week, he was The captives were subject- from Afghanistan must be very shifting religio-political alliances “not surprised” by the fall of ed to the usual Isis treatment: bad.—(Independent) are omnipresent against .

Human t r af f icking is a cr ime ing corruption, extremism, insurgency, nepotism, drug addiction, illiteracy, violence against women and girls, smuggling, child labor, traffic accidents, injustice, environmental problem then it should seek media’s support. If journalists were allowed to work without any let or hindrance, surely, they would highlight the problems and promote the culture of debate in the country in order to fight intol- erance and injustice. No doubt, it is media that educates the public how to deal with the current problems and prevent the anti-state and anti-democratic forces from toppling the government. Without having accurate and complete information about the ground situation, the leaders could not fix the wrongdoings. Free media do this job better because it projects true pictures. Therefore, the government should enforce the Law on Access to Information as promised by Abdullah Abdul- lah and address problems of journalists. Subscription Rates Categories Fee Afghanistan Times Annual Afg: 3600 at your door step For fast delivery service Six Months Afg: 1800 Afghanistan Times seeks the names, addresses of your International Organization $200 per year organizations and the number of copies you want.

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WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30 2015

WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30 2015 AFGHANISTANTIMES Afghanistan: The case for staying By Michael O’ Hanlon and Abdullah have gradual- The news reports out of Af- ly sorted out many of their ghanistan this year surely differences, and that pattern have been bleak — the Kan- is likely to continue, as Dr. dahar airfield tragedy and Abdullah predicted to me other high-profile attacks in during a recent conversation. Kabul in recent days, the They have also greatly tight- temporary loss of the city of ened oversight in the award- Kunduz to the Taliban this ing of government contracts fall, the highest refugee as part of an anti-corruption flows out of country in a strategy. Unlike President decade, and so on. Hamid Karzai before them, But Afghanistan is much they are also unambiguous- more complicated than that. ly grateful to America, and As 2015 ends, and after a NATO, for all the help we trip to the country in De- have provided. cember, my overall impres- The Afghan people are sion is that there is plenty to worried but not desperate. worry about but also ample In a recent Asia Foundation reason for hope. survey, they expressed Taken together, these re- more worry about the coun- alities suggest that President try’s future than at any oth-

reason for hope. survey, they expressed Taken together, these re- more worry about the coun- alities suggest that President try’s future than at any oth- Obama was right in recent er time in the past decade, weeks to reverse course. with only 37% expressing He no longer plans to optimism. remove all operational U.S. However, a substantial forces from the country by majority — 75%, essential- the end of 2016. That said, ly unchanged from the re- he does propose additional cent past — expressed con- force cuts beyond the 90% tentment and happiness with reductions we have already their lives despite it all. That carried out — is partly a reflection of some By Carl Bildt ing to key steps to control bor- and these additional cuts of the wonderful, positive As the European Union pre- ders and share the burden of would go too far. attributes of most Afghans. pares to enter the new year, it migration more equitably. But It also could reflect their faces an almost perfect storm the longer-term challenges - First, it is important to integrating the refugees into understand the mixed state view that, as bad as things of political challenges. The strategy it has used in the past European society and counter- of Afghanistan today, the are, the nation is not on the ing the rise of xenophobic po- reasons why it presents both verge of collapse. - barely muddling through a series of calamities - may no litical parties - will be far more a fragile situation and a And though two-thirds difficult. say the security situation is longer be enough. hopeful one at the same Of course, the EU is no Even without the refugee time. Consider: not good, more than two- stranger to crisis management. crisis and its aftershocks, the The security situation in thirds express confidence in The euro crisis, for example, EU would be facing a demand- Afghanistan is bad. Yet it is their nation’s army and po- was widely expected to destroy ing agenda. Progress on both hardly catastrophic. For ex- lice. it; but, after a couple of years theTransatlantic Trade and In- Some of the contradic- of tough summits, the issue was vestment Partnership and a ample, Afghan security forc- single digital market are central es let Kunduz fall, but then tions are of America’s own more or less managed. Greece remains in poor shape, but it to the EU global competitive- they retook it within a cou- making, by the way. For ex- ness, as are efforts to imple- ple weeks. ample, the U.S. military is has retained its EU and euro- zone membership. And the EU ment the planned capital-mar- They also repulsed coor- allowed to fight al-Qaeda kets union. and to use force in its own now has stronger mechanisms dinated Taliban probes for economic-policy coordina- As if that were not enough, against a number of other defense. But Washington tion. a new “global foreign and se- regional centers in the imme- does not permit it to fight the But the situation today is curity strategy”, to replace the diate aftermath of the Kun- Taliban or even the Islamic far more demanding than any- one that was developed during duz disaster. State terrorist group at thing the EU has seen so far - the more optimistic days of present. not least because of the num- 2003, must be in place by June. Earlier in the year, more- To fulfil this demanding over, the Afghan army Afghans may be forgiv- ber of serious challenges it fac-

ing to key steps to control bor- agenda, the EU must be at its Very few predicted that the consume too much political ders and share the burden of best, cooperating effectively change would be rejected - and oxygen in the succeeding years migration more equitably. But on multiple fronts simulta- even fewer that it would be de- to address the myriad other the longer-term challenges - neously. That will be extremely feated so soundly, with 53 per- challenges Europe faces. integrating the refugees into difficult at a time when the Unit- cent voting no. The refugee Whatever happens, one European society and counter- ed Kingdom is flirting with with- influx clearly influenced the re- thing is certain: a year or two ing the rise of xenophobic po- drawal. sult. from now, the EU will look very litical parties - will be far more Although it seems increas- Likewise, any new crisis different. It might be a fractured difficult. ingly likely that David Cam- conditions that emerge be- union, so preoccupied with ar- Even without the refugee eron, the British prime tween now and the British ref- resting its breakdown, spurred crisis and its aftershocks, the minister, will strike a deal with erendum, especially close to on by the UK’s withdrawal, that EU would be facing a demand- his European counterparts by the vote, could affect the out- it stumbles on virtually every ing agenda. Progress on both February, the chances of Brit- come. other issue it faces. theTransatlantic Trade and In- ish voters endorsing it in the The resulting uncertainty is (Aljazeera) vestment Partnership and a subsequent referendum, which highly damaging. A vote Or it could be a vigorous single digital market are central Cameron has promised to hold against continued EU member- union that includes the UK and to the EU global competitive- in 2017, are probably no higher ship would be a disaster of the which has got its act together ness, as are efforts to imple- than 50/50. first order for Europe. With the on refugee, border, and asylum ment the planned capital-mar- Of course, referendums are EU’s geopolitical clout greatly issues and is finalising the TTIP kets union. inherently unpredictable. On reduced, anti-EU forces in oth- and the digital single market. As if that were not enough, December 3, Danes voted on er member countries would In this sense, whether the a new “global foreign and se- whether to change their coun- gain strength. new year is a happy one for curity strategy”, to replace the try’s opt-out on EU home and After expanding for more Europe may well determine one that was developed during justice matters to an opt-in - than a half-century, the EU whether the next decade is a the more optimistic days of which would allow Europe- would suddenly start shrink- happy one - both for Europe 2003, must be in place by June. wide rules to be adopted on a ing. Dealing with the conse- and those, including the US, To fulfil this demanding case-by-case basis. quences of a UK exit would that depend on it. duz disaster. State terrorist group at thing the EU has seen so far - the more optimistic days of present. not least because of the num- 2003, must be in place by June. Earlier in the year, more- To fulfil this demanding over, the Afghan army Afghans may be forgiv- ber of serious challenges it fac- planned and conducted en for wondering why we es. Far from the “ring of three major operations es- seem only halfway in this friends” that EU leaders once sentially on its own, two of fight, though there are still envisioned, the European almost 10,000 Americans in neighbourhood has turned into them involving multiple corps a “ring of fire,” fuelled largely (each corps is about 25,000 uniform here. It is one thing by the combination of Islamist By Mohamad Elmasry strong, and each has specif- to wean Afghan forces off terrorism and Russian aggres- ic geographic responsibili- dependence on NATO sion in eastern Ukraine. Perhaps those of us who have de- ties). The Taliban remains troops, but it’s something The idea that the EU, with nounced Egyptian exceptionalism resilient and has gained else to create rules of en- its open societies and firm rule as a farce spoke too quickly. Egypt some net holdings this year gagement that often appear of law, would inspire those val- may be, after all, the only nation arbitrary or counterproduc- ues in surrounding countries in the world with a justice system — but probably not more that convicts dead people for com- than 3% to 5% of the coun- tive. has been turned on its head, with the disorder of Europe’s mitting crimes from the grave and try as measured by affect- Back to the question of prisoners for committing street force sizing. My main con- neighbours projecting tensions ed population. and instability into the union. offenses from their cells. There is still nepotism and cern is that, to comply with One of those challenges is On Saturday, an Egyptian corruption in the military and Obama’s ceiling of 5,500 the surging refugee crisis court sentenced Mohamed Morsi, police. But President Ashraf U.S. troops in Afghanistan caused by conflict in the Mid- the only democratically elected Ghani has retired about 70 come 2017, the United dle East, especially Syria. To be president in the nation's modern States will have to end di- sure, only a tiny fraction of history, to death, along with more senior military officers this than 100 others. Among those sen- year, in an effort to improve rect mentoring of deployed those who have been dis- placed are currently seeking to tenced to death were two people the quality of leadership. Afghan forces. who were apparently dead at the The coalition government We will retain assets for enter the EU, and the million refugees expected to arrive this time of the alleged crimes and an- of Ghani and Dr. Abdullah intelligence, commando raids other who has purportedly been against certain types of tar- year represent only about 0.2 Abdullah, inaugurated in percent of the EU’s population. in an Israeli prison since 1996, long September 2014 after a ma- gets, central training of Af- But with so many arriving before the crimes at the centre of jor election controversy, con- ghan forces in so short a time in only a few the Egypt trial were alleged to have sumed half a year in quar- and limited air opera- countries, the EU’s capacity to been carried out. tions. Our forces will be manage the influx has been It's not as though more evi- rels over formation of a Cab- dence was needed to demonstrate inet and other such disputes. based at perhaps five major overwhelmed, and controls at some borders within the Schen- the kangaroo nature of Egypt's ju- Preparations operating locations around diciary, but Saturday's sentences for overdue parliamenta- the country, plus a half doz- gen area have been restored. In 2016, EU countries can provide just that. ry elections are also way en more sites in and around For good measure, on Sunday, Kabul.—(USA Today) be expected to get a handle on behind schedule. But Ghani the immediate challenge, agree- Egypt hanged six young men for the more optimistic days of which would allow Europe- would suddenly start shrink- happy one - both for Europe 2003, must be in place by June. wide rules to be adopted on a ing. Dealing with the conse- and those, including the US, To fulfil this demanding case-by-case basis. quences of a UK exit would that depend on it.

By Mohamad Elmasry an alleged attack on military po- didn't constitute a crime and he hood members. Perhaps those of us who have de- licemen. According to Amnesty was, in the first place, wrongfully Evidence from inside the gov- nounced Egyptian exceptionalism International, the trial of the six imprisoned. No evidence ernment suggests that Morsi was as a farce spoke too quickly. Egypt men was characterised by signifi- Morsi also faces separate deeply opposed to any use of force may be, after all, the only nation cant irregularities, including forced charges for espionage. There against protesters. In any case, in the world with a justice system confession by torture and a lack of doesn't appear to be any credible there is no evidence that Morsi that convicts dead people for com- primary evidence. Egypt's Morsi evidence that Morsi did anything ordered or incited violence. In mitting crimes from the grave and sentenced to death Significant ir- other than engage in political di- April, Amnesty International prisoners for committing street regularities plomacy... called the trial a "sham" and a "trav- offenses from their cells. According to both Amnesty As Amnesty International esty of justice". Larger context On Saturday, an Egyptian International and Human Rights notes, Morsi "was held in admin- Morsi also faces separate court sentenced Mohamed Morsi, Watch, three of the six men could istrative detention, under emergen- charges for espionage. There the only democratically elected not have possibly committed the cy powers and without a judicial doesn't appear to be any credible president in the nation's modern offense because they had already detention order". evidence that Morsi did anything history, to death, along with more been in jail for three months when Moreover, there is no evidence other than engage in political di- than 100 others. Among those sen- the alleged crime took place. that Morsi and other Brotherhood plomacy - in his capacity as pres- tenced to death were two people Saturday's mass death sen- figures organised a prison break. ident - with foreign leaders that the who were apparently dead at the tence is the fourth such sentence Rather, the prison appears to have Egyptian military happens to dis- time of the alleged crimes and an- since Spring 2014. In the first mass been abandoned by police who, as like. The decisions against Morsi other who has purportedly been death sentence issued last March, has been documented, "disap- and also Sunday's hangings must in an Israeli prison since 1996, long more than 500 Egyptians were peared" from their posts shortly be seen within the military gov- before the crimes at the centre of sentenced to death over the alleged after anti-Mubarak protests broke ernment's policies of purging, the Egypt trial were alleged to have killing of a single police officer. out. Context is important. The al- cleansing, and eliminationism. Since been carried out. At that two-day trial, the de- leged prison break occurred during July 3, 2013, the day the military It's not as though more evi- fense wasn't even allowed to a nationwide security collapse. coup was formally executed, dence was needed to demonstrate present evidence. Other mass Ironically, Morsi and other Egypt's state institutions have col- the kangaroo nature of Egypt's ju- death sentences issued and con- Brotherhood leaders phoned Al luded to eliminate the Muslim diciary, but Saturday's sentences firmed in 2014 and 2015 followed Jazeera moments after they said Brotherhood and their supporters provide just that. similar patterns of injustice. While they found the prison doors open from public life. The government For good measure, on Sunday, they've been dishing out mass and no police officers in sight. In has engaged in mass killings, mass Egypt hanged six young men for death sentences to Muslim Broth- the dramatic phone call made from arrests, mass death sentences, and erhood supporters and others op- outside the main prison gate, Mor- has banned the Brotherhood and

In 2016, EU countries can ry elections are also way en more sites in and around For good measure, on Sunday, Kabul.—(USA Today) be expected to get a handle on behind schedule. But Ghani the immediate challenge, agree- Egypt hanged six young men for LETTER TO THE EDITOR Embezzlements in education sector intolerance The National Unit Government should come to the fore with concrete steps to prevent embezzlement in the education sector of the country in the future. As it is crystal-clear that it is the educated nation who can steer the country toward progress. But there some individuals in education sectors that are more dangerous than terrorists as they embezzled millions of Afghanis from education sector. The education director for central Bamyan province and the education officer for Shebar district have been detained on charges of embezzling millions of Afghanis. It is also said that several education officers and hundreds of teachers have also been banned from leaving the country until they are prosecuted. Afghan media reported that Education Director Mohammad Raza has been detained for allegedly embezzling 90 million Afs from the retirement fund of teachers who were not eligible for pension. A serious probe in this connection is expecting to come from the government in a bid to bring the culprits to the book. If thus, it would be a great lesson for those who are masterminding embezzlements in their mind, and think twice before to do such thing. The related organize should not leave any stone unturned until justice done. And as the President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah during their presidential campaigns were promised to fight against corruption especially administrative corruption. Now the time has come to deliver their promises and bring the culprits to the justice. Mubashir Khan, Kabul, Afghanistan Letter to editor will be edited for policy, content and clarity. All letters must have the writer’s name and address. You may send your letters to: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Afghanistan Times. For good measure, on Sunday, they've been dishing out mass and no police officers in sight. In has engaged in mass killings, mass Egypt hanged six young men for death sentences to Muslim Broth- the dramatic phone call made from arrests, mass death sentences, and erhood supporters and others op- outside the main prison gate, Mor- has banned the Brotherhood and posed to Egypt's July 2013 mili- si is heard saying: "We will never (conveniently) labelled it a terror- tary takeover, the court has been run away." Adding, "If there is an ist organisation. The government busy acquitting both police offic- official in Egypt who wants to get has also shut down all opposition ers of murder charges and Mubar- in contact with us, we are here." television outlets, eliminated ak regime figures of corruption He goes on to provide the pris- Brotherhood-operated charitable charges. on's name, street address and his organisations, sacked Brotherhood These cases provide sufficient precise location. When no one judges, and issued legislation pre- evidence that Egypt's justice sys- showed up at the prison, Morsi, venting individual Brotherhood intolerance tem, at present, is almost com- and the other Brotherhood figures, members - even those not accused pletely devoid of justice. The left. of crimes - from running for office ducation sector of the country in court's recent history demon- In a separate trial, Morsi was as independent candidates. The re some individuals in education strates its abhorrence for univer- sentenced in April to 20 years in eliminationist campaign has en- he education director for central sally accepted judicial principles. prison for "inciting violence". The abled Egypt's military to monop- illions of Afghanis. It is also said In contemporary Egypt, due violence that Morsi is alleged to olise power and further entrench ey are prosecuted. Afghan media process is often not granted, evi- have incited in December 2012 was itself in Egyptian society. This will Afs from the retirement fund of dence is often not considered, and instigated by his opposition and continue, until, perhaps, Egyp- government in a bid to bring the impartiality and independence are aided by police, who, according to tians once again protest against eir mind, and think twice before one. And as the President Ashraf often not maintained. With good journalist Max Blumenthal, had authoritarianism in large enough s were promised to fight against reason, international human rights abandoned both the presidential numbers to effect political change. romises and bring the culprits to groups have issued multiple scath- palace and their duty to protect If that happens, and particularly ing condemnations of both specif- Morsi from assassination at- in light of recorded leaks suggest- ic trials and the current state of tempts. ing high-level tampering, some of e the writer’s name and Egypt's justice system in general. Violent protesters tossed fire- the judges currently doling out The charges against Morsi bombs at the Presidential Palace mass death sentences could ulti- border on the absurd. On Satur- and smashed it with a crane, while mately find themselves on the oth- day, he was convicted of organis- police mostly watched on and er side of the courtroom. Moham- ing a prison break in 2011. Morsi Morsi was forced to escape out a ad Elmasry is an assistant profes- was arrested by the Mubarak re- back door. In this context, Blumen- sor in the Department of Commu- gime near the start of Egypt's 2011 thal says, Muslim Brotherhood nications at the University of revolution, which the Mubarak members showed up to protect North Alabama. The views ex- of the author(s) government tried (unsuccessfully) both the Palace and Morsi. Some pressed in this article are the au- to frame as a Brotherhood take- Brotherhood youth members like- thor's own and do not necessarily Times. over attempt. Morsi's participa- ly carried out violence, but nearly reflect Al Jazeera's editorial poli- tion in anti-Mubarak protests all of those killed were Brother- cy. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Before starting his one-man rally war a dozen times. Tsar Nicolas in front of the Turkish consulate called the Sublime Porte a "sick man in early December, Timur Bulatov of Europe" right before the Crime- consulted police officers guarding an war that pitted Istanbul and the building in the historic area of Western powers against Russia in Russia's second-largest city. the 1850s. He showed them a photo of Crimean Tatars clash with pro- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Russian groups Erdogan with Turkey's moon-and- A century and a half later, star national emblem turned to the Moscow's annexation of Crimea side so that the crescent formed prompted another conflict be- two horns above the mustachioed tween roughly the same players - politician's head. and Crimean Tatars, a Muslim mi- The officers warned Bulatov nority with close linguistic and that a public display of the offen- cultural ties to Turkey, have been sive image would get him arrested. accused of siding with the new, old But the bespectacled and out- enemy. spoken activist of the People's Sergei Aksyonov, Crimea's Council, a pro-Kremlin, neo-con- Moscow-appointed prime minis- servative vigilante group, still ter, reportedly claimed that hun- posed with the photo - proclaim- dreds of Tatars who studied in ing Erdogan a "non-Muslim" and Turkish universities and madras- "the son of Satan" - and walked on sas are potential spies, and prom- undeterred. ised to rid the peninsula of "Turk- Similarly any Russian who ish companies, Turkish business- lambasts Erdogan and his country es and public Turkish-Tatar orga- after the Turkish air force downed nizations". a Russian Su-24 bomber on No- Mustafa Dzhemilev, a Tatar vember 24 appears to escape sanc- community leader exiled to tion. This is despite Russian Pres- Ukraine, said in a statement that ident Vladimir Putin's own rheto- the "wild anti-Turkish bacchanal ric. In his national address earlier led by Putin has affected" the Ta- this month, Putin was very for- tars on top of other harassments ward about distinguishing between they face under Russian rule. the "back-stabbing" Ergodan and Putin gains, Russia loses average Turks. Only days after the downing "The Turkish people are kind, of the plane, Moscow imposed hard-working and talented," the economic sanctions on Turkey that president said. included bans on fruits and vege- "I'd like to emphasise, they tables, charter flights and employ- have to know that we don't [hold] ment of Turkish nationals in Rus- them and part of [Turkey's] cur- sia. holiday companies to "evacuate" nessmen pledge to reduce their Gazprom, Russia's mammoth project, plus a very important role tin stalwarts admit that the sanc- rent leaders directly responsible for Ankara said it would lose some tens of thousands of tourists. purchases in Turkey. natural gas exporter desperate to in Europe as a hub, plus discounts tions hurt Russia more than Tur- the death of our servicemen in Syr- $9bn, or about 0.4 percent of its A year ago, Turkish fruit and "In the nearest future, we will wean itself off the pipelines across on gas", Leonid Grigoriev, a chief key. ia." gross domestic product (GDP) as vegetables replaced the European reduce the import of shoes from now-unfriendly Kremlin adviser on energy issues, "They are negative for the But it seems like nobody in the sanctions ruined a bilateral produce Moscow banned in re- Turkey," Andrey Pavlov, who Ukraine, said in January that told Al Jazeera. Russian economy. Moreover, they Russia heard this part of his speech trade worth $31bn a year. sponse to Western sanctions over owns a network of shoe shops that it would build a 1,100-kilometre Rosatom, a state-owned nucle- are negative for Russian citizens," - and paid attention only to Pu- The Kremlin did not care that Crimea, and Turkish clothes and sold some 500,000 pairs of Turk- pipeline to Turkey, along with a ar corporation, stopped the con- Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin po- tin's threat that Turkey "won't get the sanctions affected the dinner shoes have for years competed ish shoes in 2014, said in televised distribution hub for the European struction of a 20-billion euro litical analyst, told Al Jazeera. away with tomatoes or some re- tables, wardrobes and holiday here with Chinese goods. remarks. Union. ($22bn) nuclear power station in "Sanctions are not very well strictions in construction or other plans of countless Russians. But these days, there are no The conflict has also jeopar- In early December, however, the southeastern Mersin province thought-out, because their adop- industries". A vacation in Antalya was the more figs or oranges with a star- dised the interests of Russia's larg- Gazprom suspended the project designed to decrease resource-poor tion was mostly driven by emo- "They will regret what they've most affordable option to millions and-crescent logo on price tags to est state-run companies for the that otherwise would have given Turkey's dependence on import- tions, but what's there to do? Rus- done many times," Putin said. "We of Russians - until the Kremlin be found on the shelves of Rus- sake of hurting Turkey by any Turkey "economic development, ed energy. sia had to respond on the go." know what to do." banned charter flights and ordered sian supermarkets - and some busi- means necessary. because it's a big construction Even the staunchest pro-Pu- Aljazeera Russian officials, public fig- ures and Kremlin-controlled me- dia surely knew. Within days after the plane's downing, they seem to Is help on the way have started a competition for the harshest anti-Turkish measure, ti- rade or prank. for Tunisia's Turkish nationals throughout Russia have been kicked out of universities, searched, detained, cancer hotspot? interrogated and had their visas Fisherman Sadeg Ghauma, 64, shakes his head as he points to a dead discontinued, Russian media re- bird in a puddle of dirty seawater. ported. Turkish-owned plants He is standing on the Chott Esselam beach next to a phosphate have been searched or ordered to plant in the southern Tunisian city of Gabes. "When I was young, this suspend their work, and the cus- place was a paradise," he said. Now, instead of sand, the beach is cov- toms service started suspending ered in a thick layer of grey phosphogypsum waste from the plant. Turkish goods, the reports said. Of the 250 species of fish that once thrived here, only 40 or so Russia's foreign policies have remain, according to local officials. The fishermen now have to travel never been this bad, never. farther and use more petrol before they spot any fish, said Mahrez Gennady Gudkov, opposition Hamrouni, the head of the local fishermen's union. He spent years work- leader ing in the phosphate plant himself, but has now retired. The NTV television network "They should stop dumping waste into the sea," he told Al Jazeera. purported that Turkey buys cot- Storing phosphogypsum waste on land would do a lot to reduce pollu- ton from ISIL-controlled areas and tion in the area. provides them with high-speed The state-owned Tunisian Chemical Group, based in Gabes, has internet connections. produced and exported phosphoric acid and fertilisers since 1972. The In other NTV reports, the lead- company is an important driver of the Tunisian economy, and last year er of the Islamic State of Iraq and When Jenny Tang first moved to made 1.47bn Tunisian dinars ($720m) in revenue. It employs 3,500 Levant (ISIL), Abu Bakr al-Bagh- people in Gabes, and has plants in Sfax and Gafsa. dadi was said to have received the United States from China in 1999, a stroll in Washington, DC's Thameur Zreli is a nurse and spokesman for eight environmental medical treatment at a Turkish organisations in Chott Esselam. "Those who can afford it leave town," hospital - and a bearded Greek Chinatown meant having breakfast at an old porridge stall, buying tra- he said, sitting at a restaurant beside Ala Ben Rabeh, a journalist and monk "predicted" that Turkey member of Green Future, an environmental NGO. Like many people in "will fall into Russia's hands and ditional ingredients such as Chi- nese cabbage at the local supermar- Gabes, Ben Rabeh suffers from breathing problems. split into three or four parts". After the revolution in 2011, many people in Gabes jumped at the Russia's top brass accused Er- ket, and chatting with the many Chinese families that formed the opportunity to set up environmental NGOs - a process virtually im- dogan's family of buying oil from possible under the old regime. According to Expertise France, there are areas controlled by the ISIL. A neighbourhood's tight-knit com- munity. hundreds of environmental NGOs currently operating in Gabes. Exper- group of Cossacks, descendants of tise France, an international technical expertise agency, provides the frontier warriors that once spear- She chose to live in the ethnic enclave because she wanted to re- organisations with subsidies, using funds it receives from the European headed Russia's wars with Turkey, Union, and would like to see them work together and merge. burned Turkish and US flags and tain a cultural connection to her homeland. Although countless demonstrations have taken place, very little has rag dolls of Erdogan and Barack been achieved in the past few years, activists say. "Most organisations Obama. "Most people living here emi- grated from China and stayed in aren't really active," Ben Rabeh told Al Jazeera. "Some people only join A nationalist Russian politi- to get a subsidy or to further their careers. Not many work together, cian said that Turkish sweets Washington ever since," Tang said. "Some people have lived here for because they have different strategies and political affiliations." should be banned because they Historically, political repression has also been an obstacle to envi- may cause cancer. Restaurants 18 years, some people have been here for over 20 years. At first ronmental reform in Tunisia. Zine El Abidine Ben Ali , the former pres- started removing or renaming any- out. Why didn't you kick us out Peter Kwong is a professor of venir stores - is mostly for tour- ident, presented himself to the world as a green advocate, but activists thing Turkish from their menus. Washington's Chinatown had gro- before?" Asian American studies and urban ists. cery stores, traditional breakfast were often stopped and threatened. According to Zreli, this type of And Mikhail Turetsky, the head Chinese immigrants first set- affairs at Hunter College, who has "Once [gentrification] hap- governmental intimidation still occurs. of a popular Russian choir, joked stores, snack stores." tled in large numbers in the United researched Chinatowns for more pens, rent goes up, and the Chi- But most of that is now gone. A doctor from Gabes, who asked to remain anonymous, said that he that he would change his last name States in the mid-1880s, when an than 40 years. He said that of the nese move out," Kwong said. "But was imprisoned and tortured in the 1990s for refusing to keep his mouth because it means "Turkish." At the heart of Washington's Chi- estimated 150,000 landed in Cali- 15 biggest Chinatowns in the US, the Chinatown that remains be- natown, around H and 7th Streets, shut about the detrimental impacts of pollution on health. Georgians, Ukrainians and Ta- fornia to work in the gold mines. only three continue to be thriving, comes a tourist [destination]. All "Have you noticed how hard it is to breathe here, and how quickly tars there is now a Starbucks, a fast- They established the first China- authentic places where Chinese the cities want to develop, they food Mexican restaurant, a bohe- it tires you out?" he said from a site near the plant's chimneys. Last Little seemed unusual about town in San Francisco. people live and work. say, 'Hey, we got something dif- year, he took his medical records to various government ministries and the anti-Turkish campaign in Pu- mian clothing store, and a Hooters As they spread out across the Chinese community legacy ferent, we have a Chinatown'. But restaurant, where scantily clad to former President Moncef Marzouki in Tunis, he said. tin's Russia, because in the past country, other Chinatowns "A Chinatown is not just where by that time Chinese are gone, and "It's my responsibility to address this issue, but I was sent away decade, massive detentions, depor- waitresses on roller skates serve popped up in Los Angeles, Chica- the people reside. Chinatown is a all you have is this image of the mostly burgers and alcohol to cus- everywhere." He said about 80 percent of the children in Gabes have tations and harassment of people go, Boston, Philadelphia, New place where social networks, eco- exotic." weak bones, "not to mention all the cancer cases". from ex-Soviet Georgia, Tajikistan, tomers. York and other cities. nomic fabrics have been built," While only a fraction of the Tang, a single mother of two Houria Beji and her younger sister, Awatif, sit in the waiting room of Poland and Ukraine began right Now many of these China- Kwong said. "New immigrants United States' original Chinatowns the Cancer Patients Association in Gabes. Houria has been diagnosed after the Kremlin's diplomatic spat girls, is one of the few remaining towns are facing the pressures of come, want to adjust, want to find remain, those still standing are Chinese residents in the neighbour- with liver cancer and her sister suffers from high blood pressure, blind- with their governments. gentrification - the process by a job, want to know how to fund a putting up a fight against gentrifi- ness in her right eye and diabetes. They believe the plant has caused The current anti-Turkish hys- hood. which more affluent individuals business. And the information, the cation. Last month, dozens of peo- At its peak, Washington's Chi- these health issues [Thessa Lageman/Al Jazeera] teria "is not just reminiscent" of move into lower-class neighbour- material, the supplies, all these ple marched in New York to de- In a suburb of Gabes, where several patients were seated in the these past campaigns, it has "sur- natown was home to about 3,000 hoods as demand for housing ris- things come from a place like Chi- mand that local officials halt plans Chinese people, but now there are waiting room of the Cancer Patients Association, a local NGO, Houria passed them" and reflects Mos- es, causing rent to become more natown." to build a 68-storey luxury apart- Beji said she would soon undergo treatment in Tunis for liver cancer. cow's recent conflicts with many only about 300 left. And this num- expensive. That has meant more The development of cities has ment in Chinatown. ber may soon be cut in half: The "Every day we're confronted with that disgusting smell," Beji, 52, who former allies and neighbours, said whites living in Chinatowns and been pressuring Chinese commu- In San Francisco, the city's first lives five kilometres from the plant, said with a sob. "They should close the Russian opposition leader apartment Tang lives in houses 150 fewer Chinese. nities to move out of the neigh- Asian American mayor responded Chinese immigrants and Chinese down the plant." Gennady Gudkov. According to the Asian Amer- bourhoods where they have been to protests against gentrification On another couch sat Maryam Saada, 37, who is unemployed and "Russia's policies are now Americans, but is soon to be de- ican Legal Defense and Education living for decades, according to by halting the eviction of dozens molished and replaced by luxury hopes the association will pay for her husband's treatment. Her hus- aimed at isolation and confronta- Fund, a national organisation that Kwong. of Chinese families from their af- band worked for the phosphate plant until he was diagnosed with can- tion, because one has to try really condominiums. seeks to protect the civil rights of "[They are] the people that fordable housing. Tang and the others are being cer. Asked whether she thought things would improve, she replied: "In hard to fall out with everybody," Asian Americans, the number of have been here for a long time, have In Washington, Tang and the our dreams." he told Al Jazeera. "Russia's for- evicted, as none of them can af- white people living in the China- seen the city through tough times. other residents of her apartment ford the asking price of $800,000 The association's chairperson, Sabrine Thabti, said many people eign policies have never been this towns of Philadelphia and Boston Now that their neighbourhoods are are taking the development com- cannot afford treatment. "What's more, we don't have any specialised bad, never." per apartment. more than doubled from 2000 to becoming popular places, they're pany to court, but it appears un- "Most of the Chinese people doctors here. The [health] minister has been promising to bring chemo- The Kremlin is using tried- 2010. In San Francisco, dozens of being told they have to leave. likely that they will be able to stay. therapy to Gabes for 40 years," Thabti told Al Jazeera. According to the and-tested propaganda tools to that live here, we all have jobs, but Chinese families are facing eviction They're being priced out," said Sam Tang fights back tears at the we don't have as much money as association, Gabes is the most cancerous city in the country and has the besmirch Turkey and revive the old from their affordable housing. They Jewler, a community organiser in thought of having to leave her neigh- highest rate of infertility and premature births. However, the lack of a image of vile Ottomans, archetyp- others. But every day, every claim that building owners want Washington. bourhood, even if her Chinatown - month, we pay our rent on time," proper registration system makes this difficult to verify. al foes of anything Russian. Over to rent out the apartments to the What remains of many China- like so many others across the US "The plant's directors always say: 'Give us scientific proof that the past five centuries, tsarist Rus- said Tang. "We feel it's not fair. DC young professionals flooding into towns - like the quintessential - today bears little resemblance to developed and you are kicking us would connect the pollution to the diseases,'" said Zreli. "But then they sia and Ottoman Turkey were at the city. Chinese gate or the crowded sou- the one she once knew. Aljazeera do their best to make sure no studies can be conducted." Aljazeera This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Saudi Arabia unveiled its 2016 bud- get which predicted a deficit of 326 billion riyals ($87 billion) in the new year, Al Arabiya News Channel reported. “Our economy has the poten- tial to meet challenges,” King Sal- man said in a speech, adding the 2016 budget launched a phase in which the kingdom would diversi- fy its revenues. The government ran a deficit of 367 billion riyals ($97.9 billion) or 15 percent of gross domestic product in 2015, officials said. The 2016 budget plan aims to cut that to 326 billion riyals. Next year's budget projects spending of 840 billion riyals, down from 975 billion riyals actu- ally spent this year. The ministry said it would review government projects to make them more effi- cient and ensure they were neces- sary and affordable. Revenues next year are fore- cast at 514 billion riyals, down from 608 billion riyals in 2015, when oil revenues accounted for 73 percent of the total. The budget allocates 191 bil- lion riyals to education while 213 billion will go to “military sectors.” Separately, non-oil revenues in- creased by 29 percent to 163 bil- lion riyals, Al Arabiya reported. This is the first budget an- nouncement since King Salman’s ascension to the throne and is ex- pected to reflect reforms he an- nounced last week. “Our vision for economic re- form is to increase the efficiency of public spending, utilize eco- nomic resources and boost returns from state investment,” he told the kingdom’s Shura Council on Wednesday. UAE cuts its gasoline and Higher rates will dominate markets in 2016 Will the Federal Reserve’s decision Let’s get one thing clear from move toward higher rates might on a meteoric bull run since the And with interest rates at near- diesel prices for in December to start raising inter- the outset: the actual financial im- impact consumers and the broader recession ended in 2009. The S&P zero, money poured into stock est rates for the first time in nearly pact of the Fed’s initial rate hike economy going forward. 500, the broadest measure of U.S. markets in lieu of investments such next month a decade help deflate the same will be minimal. After all, the Fed Most analysts believe the Fed stocks, has risen more than 200% as CDs and long-term bonds whose stock market bubble the central merely raised rates by 0.25% from is targeting, at most, two addition- since hitting a recession low of 683 returns are closely tied to interest The United Arab Emirates will bank has been accused of helping the near-zero range where they’d al rate hikes in 2016, each one an- in March 2009. Much of the fuel rates. Since the Fed had so careful- lower domestic prices for gasoline to inflate over the course of the ly telegraphed its December rate and diesel in January, the ministry market’s six-year bull run? hike, markets responded with lit- The yen was supported against of energy said. Analysts believe much of how tle volatility. What happens in the dollar on Tuesday as soured The price of a liter of octane the stock market reacts to higher 2016 is really anyone’s guess, but risk sentiment favoured the safe 95 gasoline will drop 6 percent to interest rates in 2016 will likely stock markets are likely to follow haven Japanese currency, while the 1.58 dirham ($0.4302) at the start depend on how the Fed communi- the Fed’s lead: if the Fed commu- Canadian dollar struggled near an of January from 1.68 dirhams in cates future rate hikes. nicates well and markets are pre- 11-year low against the greenback December, the ministry said on its “Modern central banking is as pared for whatever actions are tak- as crude oil prices resumed their Twitter account. much an exercise in effective com- en by the central bank, investors slide. The domestic diesel price will munication as it is economic anal- will respond accordingly. If, how- The dollar, which has lost fall to 1.61 dirhams in January ysis. Something simple like ‘We’re ever, the Fed seems indecisive or some steam against its Japanese from 1.83 dirhams in December, going to raise rates’ is fairly lacks a unified message, all bets are counterpart after the Federal Re- the ministry said. straightforward, even if it took the off. In any case, if history is any serve hiked interest rates this In July, the UAE said it was Fed the better part of a year to get indicator (and it usually is) stock month, dipped 0.1 percent to shifting from a system of fixed, it across to capital markets,” said markets may not see much upward 120.26 yen. subsidized fuel prices to adjusting Nicholas Colas, chief market strat- movement in 2016 regardless of It edged closer to a two-month prices monthly in response to glo- egist at Convergex, a global bro- how well the Fed communicates low of 120.05 plumbed last week bal trends. kerage company based in New its message. In a research report as weaker oil sapped investor risk It did not reveal details of its York, in a recent research note. released in November, Goldman appetite. The dollar was on track new formula nor say whether sub- “Now, they must set the stage Sachs said U.S. stocks will spend to eke out a 0.5 percent gain against sidies would be removed entirely, for future hikes. Threading that another year flatlining in 2016 as the yen this year. but announced that fuel prices needle will take time and (the Fed’s investors feel the impact of higher Prices of both Brent and U.S. would be “based on the average December) meeting is still early interest rates on stock valuations. crude remained under pressure on global prices with the addition of days for this effort,” Colas added. “In 2016 the key focus of all Tuesday after dropping more than operating costs”. It’s one of Wall Street’s oldest been held for seven years in the other boost of 0.25%, and only if for that bull ma rket was supplied market participants will be the 3 percent overnight, reversing a Crude oil futures benchmark clichés but its truth is undeniable: wake of the 2008 financial crisis. the economy seems to be respond- by the Fed’s unprecedented easy- path of ongoing interest rate nor- brief rebound as concerns over Brent LCOc1 was trading at markets (ie., investors) hate uncer- Fed Chair Janet Yellen empha- ing well to the first rate hike. That money policies, namely rock-bot- malization,” the analysts wrote. oversupply returned. Brent $37.58 a barrel at 0739 GMT, tainty. So conventional wisdom sized this point in her press con- would leave the benchmark fed tom interest rates and a massive Goldman forecasted that the slipped back towards an 11-year down 31 cents from its last settle- holds that the more skillful Fed ference following the announce- funds rate at 1.50% by the end of bond purchasing program known S&P 500, the stock index favored low. ment. U.S. West Texas Intermedi- officials are at telegraphing their ment of liftoff. “We have very low next year, still well below the as quantitative easing. Those pol- by most equities analysts, will end The yen was expected to re- ate (WTI) futures CLc1 were upcoming rate hikes, the less vola- rates and we have made a very 5.25% level where rates stood just icies pumped trillions of dollars of 2016 at 2100, or 1% above its cur- tain its support into the new year down 47 cents at $37.63 per bar- tile markets will be once those hikes small move,” Yellen said in re- ahead of the financial crisis. cash into the financial system, rent level of 2059 (when the re- if oil prices continued declining. rel. are announced. sponse to a question of how the U.S. stock markets have been money that had to go somewhere. port was written). "Weak oil prices can push down dollar/yen by continuing to negatively impact high yield bonds, which in turn will worsen overall risk sentiment," said Shin Kadota,

Oil prices stabilized on Tuesday Both crude benchmarks remain exceeding demand by at least that amount or perhaps even 2 million bpd, even such a U.S. cut would not be enough to rebalance markets. as colder U.S. and European tem- down by two-thirds since prices peratures raised the prospect of started tumbling in June 2014. winter heating demand, but gains "The demand situation does JPMorgan to could still be undercut by worries not support a return to a higher over near-record output that has price environment," said deriva- raise deposit slashed prices by two-thirds since tives exchange operator CME mid-2014. Group. rates for some chief Japan FX strategist at Bar- U.S. West Texas Intermediate Oil analysts JBC Energy said clays in Tokyo. (WTI) futures CLc1 were trading that oil product demand growth in big clients in "Under such conditions, the at $37.02 per barrel at 0814 GMT, Europe turned negative in Octo- other yen crosses should also re- up 21 cents following a more than ber - a loss of 170,000 barrels per January: WSJ tain support going forward after 3 percent fall on Monday. day (bpd) year-on-year - for the JPMorgan Chase & Co (NYSE: gaining steadily since the summer," The international benchmark first time in 10 months and that JPM) will begin raising deposit he said. The euro was on course to Brent LCOc1 was at $36.82 per diesel and gasoline demand growth rates for some of its biggest clients lose about 9 percent versus the yen barrel, up 20 cents but still less in China, one of the strongest price in January, the Wall Street Journal in 2015 and the Australian dollar than a dollar away from an 11-year supporters of the past year, was reported, citing a person familiar was headed for a 10 percent loss low hit earlier in December. also slowing. with the matter. The bank’s depos- it-rate increase will affect most in- against the Japanese currency. Traders said the increases were One change in oil trading has stitutional clients and the size of Tumbling commodity prices have largely due to colder weather en- been that WTI flipped to a premi- the increases will vary, the Journal rattled the U.S. high yield bond tering Europe and North America um versus Brent CL-LCO1=R this reported, citing the person. market by increasing fears of de- following an unusually warm start month after the United States lift- Earlier this month, major U.S. faults by companies tied to moves to winter. MDA Weather Forecasts ed a decades-old ban on exporting banks raised their prime rates, a in oil. The iShares iBoxx high yield said its 6-10 day forecast showed U.S. crude oil. benchmark for a wide range of con- sumer and commercial loans, for corporate bond ETF dropped to a the likelihood of colder weather for Analysts expect this price the first time since 2006, follow- four-year low this month. The the U.S. East Coast, a key region structure to stay in place, espe- ing a rate hike from the Federal euro gained 0.1 percent to $1.0988. for heating fuel demand. cially should global markets suffer Reserve. JPMorgan did not imme- Trading has thinned as participants For Europe, Reuters meteoro- from slowing demand and a con- diately respond to a request for have closed out their positions logical data shows that continen- tinuing oil surplus while domestic comment. Spokesmen for Bank of before the year's end, confining the tal average temperatures are ex- supplies in the United States tight- America Corp (NYSE: BAC), Cit- igroup Inc (NYSE: C) and Wells common currency to a narrow pected to fall from almost 6.5 de- en. Fargo & Co (NYSE: WFC) said $1.0944-1.1000 range over the grees Celsius - 4 degrees above the "We expect (the) WTI-Brent the banks had not raised deposit past three sessions. The common seasonal norm - towards more spread to reach about $1," Phillip rates. currency has dropped 9 percent in typical levels of 2 degrees Celsius Futures said. 2015, sliding to a 12-year low of by Jan. 1. "The ongoing low oil-price $1.0457 in March. A debt crisis in But while winter demand may environment points furiously to- Greece and a divergence in mone- provide near-term support to pric- wards a rough 2016 for U.S. pro- tary policies of the Fed and the es, there are still worries that over- ducers," oil analysis firm Clipper- European Central Bank were some all consumption growth is set to Data said, with some estimates of the factors that pushed down take a hit in the midst of global pointing to a 500,000 bpd fall in the euro this year, although it is output that remains at or near U.S. production in 2016. yet to reach parity with the dollar record highs. However, with global output as some had forecast. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Men’s fashion may have been on the back burner over the years but it certainly wasn’t Saturday night. Designers brought their sartorial A-game at the two-day Karachi Fashion Week (KFW) Men’s Fash- ion 2015 as showgoers witnessed their offerings dedicated exclusive- ly to men. As the first day culmi- nated with varied fashion sensibil- ities showcased by six designers at the grand Mohatta Palace, it seemed like a fitting reminder of how men have stylistically evolved, becoming more accepting towards changing trends. Here’s a breakdown of who showed what on day one. Dapper or dull? The designer heavyweight always pushed boundaries with his collections. Once again, he didn’t disappoint and went all-out experimental. Using dark and earthy tones such as black, grey and rust for his spin on sherwanis and pairing them with maroon pants and shimmery 2016 is already shaping up to be a short-length jackets, Adnan put his promising year for Pakistani cine- best foot forward. He added a hint ma. With Ho Mann Jahaan ready of winter appeal to the ensembles to hit the screens on January 1, by rounding them off with con- movies like Janaan, Hijrat and Re- trasting mufflers. His take on the venge of The Worthless are set to contemporary man is classic and follow suit. clean, which always shines through However, cinemagoers can his aesthetics. Adnan’s line now add another film to the grow- showed he’s comfortable working ing list with the Mohib Mirza and with both Eastern and Western sil- Sanam Saeed-starrer Bachaana all houettes. set to release in February next year. Dapper or dull? Known to Speaking to The Express Tribune, specialise in men’s Eastern-wear, such as sherwanis and kurtas, and using colours such as beige and dark grey, Maaz Jee showcased a well-rounded collection for the desi groom. The collection featured kora and dabka work on the sleeves and jamawar shawls. Among the Could it be because the Bolly- The Hindustan Times, SRK had roles be justified?” SRK finally particularly striking pieces was the wood megastar thinks the three revealed that Salman jokingly put breaks silence on rumoured film black velvet kurta with red-co- Khans won't get along? an end to working alongside Aamir with Salman and Aamir “Any two loured floral embroidery. The co- Oh bummer, not the trio we and Shah Rukh. He said, “Guys, among the three of us might be able lour combinations were classic and were hoping to see together on the we three won’t do a film together. to do it ( a film together), but that svelte and had a high wearability silver screen… In an interview with We will only end up fighting. One too not at the moment. I think the quotient. director Nasir Khan said, “The film Bollywood.com, Salman con- will keep using his brains, another three of us might do a film togeth- Dapper or dull? With a play- is basically about an Indian wom- fessed that Saif should take his will finish the work quickly, and er at a stage when none of us has ful vibe that is signature FnkAsia, an and a Pakistani man and how place if there ever is a Ghostbusters one will not reach the sets on time.” any work. Maybe, will make a the collection comprised a variety they meet in Mauritius and em- (1984) remake in the pipeline. Looks like we’re not the only film like Shaukeen (1962) or Chi- of silhouettes. It featured vibrant bark on a journey together.” “Aamir, Shah Rukh and Saif can ones who are disappointed. But na Town (1996). Buddhey log shirts coupled with jackets and Describing the movie as a do it. Or perhaps some other Khan Salman explained that it was be- saath mein but main nahin (old kolhapuri or Peshawari chappals. “light-hearted” film similar to oth- can also be taken, maybe Kader cause of many technical reasons people working together but not Known for its quirky designs and er commercial movies that are be- bhai or Razak Khan,” he said. rather than just the three of them me),” he joked. While we might not vibrant colour palette, Huma stuck ing made these days, he explained Shah Rukh, Salman and Aamir not ‘being able to work together. be seeing our favourite Khans on- to her signature aesthetics to cre- his decision to cast Mohib and to come together for a film? “On a serious note, it’s quite a screen together anytime soon, but ate looks that were diverse and Sanam in the lead roles. “For San- Could it be because the Bolly- difficult proposition,” he said. we will be seeing Salman Khan wearable. The brand kept its tra- am’s character I wanted someone wood megastar actually thinks the “Who will produce it, and who will work his magic in upcoming film ditional feel intact and would surely who had that Indian look whereas three Khans won’t get along? finance it? More importantly, who Sultan slated to release on Eid rivet the attention of young boys. for Mohib’s role I wanted some- Earlier, in an interview with will write the script? How will the 2016. Dapper or dull? The looks cre- one who was street-smart. Both ated were both rugged and rough fit the bill perfectly.” Nasir said and featured an eclectic mix of co- with Bachaana the audiences will lours in cotton fabric. The brand’s see Mohib in a new avatar. “He’d line comprised shirts in vibrant be doing comedy and action in a hues such as blue and purple, feature film for the very first time.” paired with staple tones such as First look: Poster of Sanam, black and beige. Models walked Mohib’s ‘Bachaana’ released the ramp sporting cardigans and The first trailer for the film is jazzed up their look with kafiyas expected to be out in January. If and moccasins that upped the edgy everything goes according to plan and the movie does release in Feb- appeal of the ensembles. Boasting Pop star Kanye West and Kim Kim, 35, and her rapper husband ensured he was kept fully covered and the brand’s diversity, the showcase ruary, it may find itself in a box office tussle with Ashir Azeem’s Kardashian West have been offered away from view in his car seat. featured both Eastern- and West- $2.5 million for the first photo- ern-wear. Having emerged only re- Maalik. The music for Bachaana has been composed by Ali Sher, graphs of their baby son Saint. cently, Kapray seems to be head- The couple welcomed little ing in the right direction and shows Symt and Indian music director Prasad Saste. Saint into the world on December great promise in the realm of mens- 5 and since his birth, they have wear. been inundated with offers from Dapper or dull? The brand Katie Price is publications keen to show him off boasted a variety of textures and for the first time. materials and primarily featured easy to buy for According to tmz.com, offers casual-wear. Checkered shirts, range from $2 million to $2.5 mil- striped cardigans or pull-overs lion and request the full family, paired with suede shoes and muf- including Saint's older sister North, flers dominated the runway. The two, to take part in a range of pic- retail store epitomises the casual, tures, including candid group free-spirited man of today. The line shots. also comprised tuxedos with vests However, insiders told the and pants and exuded the classy Pop star Katie Price's husband website the couple are "almost cer- appeal of the 1980s. Kieran Hayler likes to "treat" her tain" they will reject all offers for Dapper or dull? Termed as at Christmas and she thinks she's the pictures. ‘deeply personal’ by the designer, "easy" to buy gifts for. Hayler When North was born, Kanye, the collection was an ode to the always likes to "treat" her over the 38, showed off a selection of pic- transition of darkness to light with festive season and finds buying her a gift is never a problem because tures of her on his mother-in-law the polarised colours black and she rarely splashes out on herself Kris Jenner's now-defunct talk white. The all-out Western collec- throughout the year. "I'm really show, fuelling speculation that tion, however, failed to impress us easy to buy for,` femalefirst.co.uk Saint's public debut will come on with its cuts and designs. The line quoted Price as saying. To which Kim's sister Khloe Kardashian's was lacklustre and seemed like one Hayler added: "Everyone must new programme `Kocktails with that is readily available across think Kate always buys herself Khloe`, which launches in the new menswear stores in the city. We designer shoes and handbags but year. expected much more from a design- she never does." "I like to treat her - in the past The family have already been er as flamboyant as Rizwanullah I've bought her Louboutins and a seen in public together since Saint's but he missed the mark with this Louis Vuitton handbag with match- birth, but during the visit to take collection. ing shoes, things like that." the infant to the doctor last week, Here’s why Mahesh Bhatt wants you to watch Ho Mann Jahaan We’re all revved up for upcoming film Ho Mann Jahaan, and it seems like Mahesh Bhatt has also joined the bandwagon of enthusiastic fans eagerly awaiting its release. The Indian direc- tor, who previously flew to Lahore on Huma- yun Saeed’s request to watch the screening of Jawani Phir Nahi Ani, made a video asking fans to go to theatres on the 1st of Jan as it will mark a “special day for Pakistani cinema”. The rate at which Pakistani cinema is advancing, Mahesh believes that Asim Raza’s upcoming release, HMJ, will take the industry to greater heights — one of the many reasons why one should go watch the upcoming film. We’re con- vinced! Are you? Previously, Mahesh was floored after watching JPNA and tweeted im- mense praise for the film, giving it an ‘out- standing’ review. Mahesh Bhatt, Humayun Saeed team up for ‘pro-Pakistan’ film Dush- man Mahesh, among other Indian artistes, has been promoting the Pakistani entertainment industry for some time now. Reportedly, the veteran Indian filmmaker has joined hands with Pakistani superstar Humayun Saeed to bring Punjabi film Dushman to audiences on both sides of the border — a film they both claim will bring India and Pakistan closer amid rising tensions. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY. DECEMBER 30, 2015 AFGHANISTANTIMES

The International Association of "The first visit to Russia by the IAAF and the Russian Olympic And Anderson indicated initial Athletic Federations will visit Rus- IAAF Taskforce will take place Committee to supervise the in- talks had gone well with Aleshin. sia in January following talks with from 10-11 January 2016. "The spection and verification process, "Yesterday's meeting marked Gennady Aleshin on Tuesday. visit was confirmed yesterday at met yesterday in Brussels. the formal beginning of our work Aleshin is the chairperson of the the first meeting between Rune "ARAF must satisfy the IAAF to confirm Russia's commitment ROC Coordination Committee for Andersen, the independent chair- Taskforce that they have met and to the verification process," said the re-entrance of Russian Athlet- person of the IAAF Taskforce, will continue to meet the Rein- Andersen. ics into the IAAF. and Gennady Aleshin, chairperson statement Conditions and Verifi- "We have established a good The world body took the decision of the ROC Coordination Commit- cation Criteria set out by the IAAF working relationship as the basis to suspend Russia from interna- tee for the re-entrance of Russian on 11 December, in order for Rus- of our future discussions and meet- tional athletics in November, fol- Athletics into the IAAF family of sian Athletics to be recommended ings together. I look forward with lowing allegations of systematic, nations. for IAAF membership following my fellow members of the IAAF state sponsored doping. A state- "Andersen and Aleshin, who have ARAF's acceptance of their full Taskforce to visiting Moscow in ment on the IAAF website read: been respectively appointed by the suspension on 26 November." three weeks' time." William Fox-Pitt has been riding again after recovering from injury British eventer William Fox-Pitt has been riding for the first time since a horri- ble October fall left him with severe head injuries. The former world No 1 had to be placed in an induced coma after he fell off Reinstated during the World Young Horse Cham- pionships in Lion D'Angers and spent a month in hospital in France Lewis Hamilton says Toto Wolff's tween himself and his team-mate, According to Hamilton, the and England receiving warning that Mercedes would con- even if their partnership has con- comments are directed at the en- treatment. sider changing their driver line-up tinued to deliver for the Silver Ar- tire team and will serve as a wake- The 46-year-old has was unnecessary and is confident rows. up call heading into 2016. been recovering well and neither his nor Nico Rosberg's po- "We are grown men and we "I think it is easy for people has now posted a video on sitions are under threat. have done the job that we are hired to get complacent in life and I think YouTube which shows Mercedes boss Wolff has to do to the maximum," he said. it is important as a team we don't him riding at an indoor sta- twice publicly stated he would be "We've not done it 95 per cent or get complacent," he continued. bles. forced to act if growing tensions 80 per cent, we've done it 100 per "We've had two incredibly suc- "Thank you for all of between Hamilton and Rosberg cent to how they've wanted us to cessful years and when you com- your support over the last began to impact upon results. do it. plain about small things I think that few weeks," he said. But Hamilton says the warn- "Has there been friction? Of is when you can easily lose your "I had my first ride to- ing was not required. course, you can't have it perfect way. Of course we always want day, I got that in before Sergio Aguero to Score and always. But have we always shone to be better and perfect, but as long Christmas. I had to set my- Manchester City to Win in 90 light on this team? I believe so. as we stay together and continue self a target and I am very Mins9/4 Have we always delivered when to communicate I think it will be happy to have been able "Am I surprised by it? Not they've given us the opportunity good." to do that. really. Is it necessary? Not really," to do so? I believe so." Hamilton is spending his win- "I am looking forward the world champion told Sky Ital- And contrary to his boss's ter holidays in Colorado and will to getting started and see- ia. comments, Hamilton added: return to F1 action when pre-sea- ing you all in the new year. But Hamilton has acknowl- "Nico's job is not in jeopardy and son testing begins in late Febru- Happy Christmas." edged there has been friction be- neither is mine." ary. Anderson Silva to face Michael Bisping in London in February Anderson Silva will return to the UFC fold when he headlines a London card with a middleweight clash against Britain's Michael Bisping on February 27. The Brazilian (33-6) has not fought since beating Nick Diaz at UFC 183 in January 2015, a bout that ended as a no contest after both combatants failed drug tests. Silva was suspended for a year after returning a positive test for two banned steroids while Diaz was banned for five years after a third positive test for marijuana. Bisping (27-7) had been due to face Gegard Mousasi on the O2 card but now gets the chance to face the opponent he has coveted for a number of years. The 37-year-old was part of the UFC 120 event in London in 2010 when claiming a unanimous decision over Japan's Yoshihiro Andy Murray can look back on final - becoming the first British Murray headed into the grass- Akiyama. 2015 with great satisfaction after player to do so in the Open Era. court campaign with high hopes Their meeting will headline ending the season as world No 2 Once again he went up against of winning his second Wimbledon Fight Night 83, with Silva looking and winning the Davis Cup with world No 1 Djokovic and once title after making vast improve- to revive a career that has seen him Great Britain. again he was 'bageled' in the decid- ments in his form and fitness over officially go winless since Octo- 2014 was pure frustration for er, losing 7-6 (7-3) 4-6 6-0. the first half of the season. Dun- ber 2012 - he was beaten twice by the Scot, having spent the majori- So to the Scot's least favourite blane native Murray had already Chris Weidman before the Diaz no ty of it rehabilitating from back surface - clay - but he was more won a hat-trick of titles at Queen's contest. surgery. But he made a lung-burst- than determined to land his first Club in 2009, 2011 and 2013 and Silva reigned as middleweight ing start to this year, which sug- ATP title on the red stuff and it was looking to continue the trend champion for nearly seven years gested he was close to being back finally came in Germany. Murray in 2015. Wins over Yen-Hsun Lu, until the first Weidman defeat, and to his best. overcame the efficient Philipp Fernando Verdasco and Viktor Tro- he suffered a broken leg when the And although there were fits Kohlschreiber from Germany in a icki catapulted the Scot into an- rematch took place. and starts in the latter part of the titanic three-set battle to become other final. The top seed then beat season due to his Davis Cup ex- the first Briton since Buster Mot- South African Kevin Anderson to cursions, Murray knows he can tram in 1976 to win a Tour level join the likes of John McEnroe and approach next season with a lot clay-court event. Boris Becker as a four-time more optimism and real hope of Murray reached a second suc- Queen's Club champion. Philadelphia 76ers secure adding a third career slam to his cessive clay-court final the follow- Wimbledon trophy cabinet. ing week and this time he produced Murray was outclassed by Here, we look back on the one of his greatest ever performanc- Roger Federer in their men's semi- highs and lows of Murray's sea- es against the 'King of Clay' Rafa final match at Wimbledon unwelcome record for NBA defeats son and we start in Melbourne... Nadal in his own backyard. The Murray was outclassed by Philadelphia have made NBA his- embroiled in contro- Australian Open two-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer in their men's semi- tory after slumping to 29 defeats versy off it Murray was already a three- dismissed Milos Raonic and Kei final match at Wimbledon With in their first 30 games of the sea- The 76ers man- time losing finalist down under but Nishikori along the way before Murray peaking just in time for son after they lost 104-90 to aged just 19 and 18 looked fresh and eager to finally outclassing the Spaniard 6-3 6-2, Wimbledon there were high expec- Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday. wins, respectively, seal a maiden Melbourne title. He securing his first victory over Nad- tations for a second success at the The 76ers have brought in top over the past two sea- was involved in a gruelling five-set al, Djokovic or Roger Federer since All England Club and things went draft picks to try and improve their sons and are on target contest with Grigor Dimitrov be- winning Wimbledon two years ear- swimmingly all the way until the fortunes following regular losing to secure the unwel- fore coming through to reach his lier. semi-finals, when a rejuvenated seasons but that approach has come record for the sixth consecutive Australian Open Notable wins against Kyrgios Federer turned back the clock to been criticised. most defeats over a quarter-final. A straight sets win and David Ferrer helped Murray dismantle the British No 1 7-5 7-5 Philadelphia have the young- regular season. over Nick Kyrgios followed before set up yet another showdown with 6-4 and leave the Centre Court est team in the NBA, with just one The Charlotte Murray came from a set down to Djokovic at Roland Garros. Mur- crown in awe of his near-perfect player on their books over 25, and Bobcats struggled to a beat Tomas Berdych to seal a place ray was on a 15-match winning run performance. Another final and that immaturity has caused prob- 7-59 record in the lock- in his first major final since his on clay and the semi-final certain- another meeting between old foes lems on and off the court. out-reduced 66-game Wimbledon success in 2013. ly lived up to expectations. After Murray and Djokovic. This time The team's third overall pick programme in 2012. But he came up against an in- a storm interrupted play to take it Murray finally breached the for- in this past draft, Jahlil Okafor, Philadelphia coach spired Novak Djokovic, and de- into a second day, Murray came midable Serb's defence to secure has performed well but was in- Brett Brown highlight- spite glimpses of his old magic, from two sets down to take it to a his first win over his rival in two volved in a public altercation ed turnovers as the Murray was beaten 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 fifth. However, Djokovic prevailed years. The Scot dominated the caught on camera earlier this year. main culprit for their (4-7) 6-3 6-0 as he wilted in the 6-3 6-3 5-7 5-7 6-1 to inflict an baseline battle to secure a thrilling Joel Embiid, the third overall shortcomings against heat and humidity. Murray's run eighth successive defeat on his old 6-4 4-6 6-3 victory in Montreal. selection of the 2014 draft for Phil- Memphis. to the final enabled him to return friend. The win earned Murray his fourth adelphia, is yet to play in the NBA "To just come to the top four in the world rank- Queen's Club title of the year, and moved him having undergone surgery after down and cough it up ings for the first time in 12 months, Murray won his fourth up to second in the world rank- suffering a foot injury. after you've played which was a major boost going for- Queen's Club title with victory ings. Murray secured his first win Jahlil Okafor has performed decent defence for ward. over Kevin Anderson over the Serb since the 2013 Wim- well for the 76ers but has been most of the game, it's This was a milestone tourna- Murray won his fourth bledon final Murray secured his embroiled in controversy off it deflating for them and ment for Murray, who recorded his Queen's Club title with victory first win over the Serb since the Jahlil Okafor has performed what we're trying to 500th career win en route to the over Kevin Anderson 2013 Wimbledon final. well for the 76ers but has been build," he said. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF. WEDNESDAY . DECEMBER 30. 2015-Jadi 09, 1394 H.S Vol:X Issue No:151 Price: Afs.15

USAID-funded Reinforced career Afghan development army begins centre opens operation in Kabul KABUL : The 8th Career Devel- The Pentagon is pushing to keep as the capability is there, we are al Qaeda training camp in south- in Sangin Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan less concerned about the number ern Afghanistan's Kandahar Prov- opment Centre has been inaugu- LASHKARGAH : Afghan army rated at the Shaheed Rabbani Edu- open beyond 2017, defense offi- [of U.S forces]," another official ince. The raid killed up to 180 Tal- cials confirmed to Fox News - an said. This is where Bagram comes iban and al Qaeda militants, Fox reinforcements have reached the cation University in Kabul under troubled Sangin district of south- USAID’s Afghanistan University appeal that comes as the Taliban in. News is told, signaling increased gain ground in the country. The The New York Times first re- U.S special operations involve- ern Helmand province and have Support and Workforce Develop- begun a clearing operation, police ment Programme. Since the pro- proposal comes on top of Presi- ported Monday that the White ment in Afghanistan. dent Barack Obama revising his House is considering a Pentagon The U.S military occupies said on Tuesday. Helmand police gramme was launched last year, chief Brig. Gen. Abdul Rahman eight campus career centres have troop withdrawal timetable, agree- proposal to keep open for years two other bases in Jalalabad and ing in October to keep a 9,800- at least one U.S military base - Kandahar where drones can be Sarjang told Pajhwok Afghan News been built or refurbished across the the Afghan National Army (ANA) country. The centres offer help in troop force through most of 2016 which, sources tell Fox News, is launched as well. These bases are and then draw down to 5,500 - Bagram. important for regional operations; troops had pushed back Taliban finding jobs to more than 85,000 insurgents attempting to overrun students. A statement from US- despite originally vowing to leave Officials consider the base too the daring Navy SEAL raid to kill a mere U.S embassy presence in valuable to close for fear of con- Osama bin Laden in 2011 was the district. AID said the centres taught un- The army personnel had reached dergraduates and graduates deci- Kabul. The status of the Bagram tinued destabilization in Afghani- launched from Jalalabad. Without base, a vital center of operations stan and beyond. Special opera- the Afghan base, the raid would the district centre and had started sion-making skills, job search strat- operations, Sarjang said, adding egies and ways to develop educa- located 40km north of Kabul, could tions forces have carved out a sec- have been considerably more dif- well be the next front in the Penta- tion of the base to house their as- ficult, according to officials. that the soldiers would have a great tional and career goals for their effect on security. However, he did professional and academic pursuit. gon's efforts to keep options open sault force and helicopters for mis- As the administration weighs for the long-term U.S presence in sions throughout the region. its options, the military is warn- not provide figures for the fresh Ameena, 23, is one of 135 students Thousands of Afghan military in Washington do not want to see troops. The police chief said 20 who have got an internship Afghanistan. "If you don't leave a Air Force F-16s also are based ing there may be no winter lull in sizable force inside Afghanistan, at Bagram and conduct airstrikes the fighting. A Pentagon report re- soldiers have been killed in the past the country fall apart -- concerns insurgents were killed and two po- through a university career centre. year; Afghan security forces suf- that are driving the push to make licemen were wounded during last (Pajhwok) the whole place will go to hell," against the Taliban and other jiha- leased earlier this month said that one U.S official said. Taliban gains dist groups. high-profile attacks in Kabul in- fered 27 percent more casualties the U.S. military presence in Af- night clashes. He said most of the throughout the year have stirred The U.S Air Force conducted creased by 27 percent in the past in 2015, according to the report. ghanistan a long-term one. rebels were hiding in civilian homes concerns on Capitol Hill, and in over 4,000 sorties, resulting in 916 year. In addition to gains by the Taliban In another sign of increasing and used them as their bastions but Kabul, about the administration's weapons being dropped on ene- The report included a poll in- throughout Afghanistan, a Daesh volatility, six U.S. Air Force air- they had decided not to strike such end-game for the war - which ear- my positions, so far this year. dicating that fewer Afghans feel offshoot has gained a foothold in men were killed in an attack near areas. According to him, foreign lier prompted Obama to revise his The activity alone speaks to safe in their country. "Only 28 Nangarhar Province in the east and Bagram Airfield last week. forces had not taken part in the withdrawal timetable. While de- how fluid the situation in Afghan- percent of Afghans say that secu- is competing with the Taliban for According to the Washington ground offensive but had conduct- fense officials would like to see a istan remains. In early October, rity in their local area is good com- influence. After watching the Tali- Post, the Taliban now control or ed airstrikes. Security forces have sizable force remain long into the U.S special operations forces, part- pared to 35 percent during the same ban make gains amid the question- at least have a sizable presence in so far carried out six airstrikes in JALALABAD : Local officials on future, one source suggested that nering with Afghan forces, time period in 2014 and 45 per- able performance of the Afghan roughly 30 percent of Afghanistan, Sangin district, he added. Tuesday said power cables cut by capability is more critical. "As long launched an attack on a sprawling cent in 2013," it said. military and police force, officials the most since 2001. (ToloNews) (Pajhwok) the Taliban in eastern Nangarhar province had been reconnected. The electricity cables extended to Nangarhar and Laghman provinc- es were snapped by militants in the Ozbin area of Sarobi district of Kabul. Nangarhar Energy and Wa- ter Director Mohib Rahman Mo- By Akhtar M. Nikzad inces. Five factories received seven acres try but they do not feel secure,” mand told Pajhwok Afghan News He said that the 36 private of land in Kandahar province to he pointed out. his department was suffering a loss of around four million afghanis a KABUL: The Afghanistan Invest- companies would invest around extract and produce juice from According to him, in the first day in the absence of electricity. ment Support Agency (AISA) dis- one billion Afghanis in the areas of fresh fruits. Two factories received nine months of the current solar The department incurred a loss of tributed 55.5 acre of lands among construction, food production, rug four acres of land in Nangarhar year up to now, $600 million has 55 million afghanis during the past 36 new companies in five indus- process, melting of iron and bev- province to produce plastic-made been invested in different fields and 13 days. With the repairs of the trial parks of Afghanistan. The erages making. goods. A construction firm received it would increase to $700 million broken cables, electricity supply companies would invest Afs1.1 Haqjo said the companies five acres of land in Herat prov- in the coming months. to Nangarhar province had been billion. would start functioning in a next ince, he said. Some owners of the factories restored, Momand said. “This The agreements were signed few months and would create The chief of AISA said that due termed insecurity, lack of electric- time, we have decided to solve the by Chief of AISA Mohammad 5,200 direct and 1,180 indirect to growing insecurity and inatten- ity and land as major challenges in problem that has been shared with Qurban Haqjo with the owners of jobs. tion of the government, investment front of the investors in the coun- local elders and National Security the private companies here on Twenty-one factories will start has decreased in 2015. Most of the try and asked the government to Council (NSC).” He added the Tuesday. investment in field of construction foreign investors withdrawn their take practical steps to resolve the problem was permanently re- After signing the agreements, in Ghazni province. They received capital from Afghanistan and in- obstacles. solved as result of local elders’ ef- Mohammad Qurban Haqjo said 20.5 acre of lands. Seven factories vested in other countries. “Af- Officials of AISA said that in forts. But Momand did not pro- that the lands were provided to the received 19 acre of land and they ghanistan is a good country for in- the past 14 years around $25 bil- vide information on how the issue companies in Herat, Ghazni, Nan- will invest in food production, rug vestment and trade. Foreign inves- lion had been invested in the coun- was settled for good. (Pajhwok) garhar, Balkh and Kandahar prov- processing and melting of iron ore. tors shall have invested in this coun- try. This document was created with Win2PDF available at http://www.win2pdf.com. The unregistered version of Win2PDF is for evaluation or non-commercial use only. This page will not be added after purchasing Win2PDF.