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Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XV Issue No:205 Price: Afs.20

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AT News

KABUL: Three female polio vaccination health workers were shot dead by unknown gunmen in Jala- labad, the capital city of eastern Nangarhar province on Tuesday morning, sources confirmed. They were killed in two separate shootings just one day after nationwide polio camping kicked off. The first gunfire took place in PD 4th targeting a female health worker. According to source, shortly after the first incident, unidentified armed men opened The body of a female health worker killed by gunmen in fire and killed two other female vaccination health workers in PD Jalalabad, Afghanistan, is taken away. Photograph: AP 7th of Jalalabad city. The victims were identified as Basira, Samina responsibility for the attack yet. egations in Doha. On March two, three female Af- and Nagina. No group, including Numerous assassinations ghan journalists were shot dead in Jalalabad as the the Islamic State (IS), also known have taken place around the coun- brazen continuation of serial killings of journalists as Daesh extremist group, who try since the peace talks began be- and the string of targeted-killings continue to take are active in the province, claimed tween the Afghan and Taliban del- more lives in Afghanistan. ...

AT News KABUL: Afghanistan has recorded 70 AT News Afghan Ambassador to the Unit- new coronavirus cases and eight deaths ed States, Homayoun Qayyoumi around the country in the past 24 hours, said the KABUL: The Attorney General former finance minister and Shad Ministry of Public Health on Tuesday. ... Office charges Roya Rahmani Mohammad... WEDNESDAY. MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

CO V ID-1 9 : 7 0 Three fem ale polio workers shot.... $ 719 ,0 0 0 em bezzled in n ew cases, ei g h t d eat h s r ep o r t ed ...P1 The three slain female President Ghani called for a Humanitarian Law hurting the i n a si n g l e d ay anchors were working for a pri- thorough investigation into the people of Afghanistan.’ co n structio n o f Afghan vate TV channel “Enikass Radio incident in a bid to bring the per- ”Perpetrators must be Television” and were targeted by petrators to justice. brought to justice, health work- ...P1 The total tally since the unknown gunmen while they “I am horrified by the news ers kept out of harm’s way & the em bassy w all outbreak of the epidemic has were heading home from work. about the killing of polio vacci- sanctity of health facilities re- reached 56,454 cases. President Ashraf Ghani, nators in Jalalabad. Such sense- spected. The EU remains a strong The ministry said the new cas- KABUL: The Attorney General report, the Wolesi Jirga and Me- tor office wrote the construction who is on an official visit to less acts are an affront to human- supporter of the health sector in es were positive out of 2,064 sus- Tajikistan, in a statement strong- ity, and callously target Afghan Afghanistan & we call on the par- Office (AGO) has accused presi- shrano Jirga introduced Qayyumi, of the wall lacked transparency. pected samples tested during this dential advisor Mohammad Hu- former minister of finance, Yama The total length of the wall was ly condemned the heinous attack women. These actions also un- ties to allow equal access to vac- period of time. on female vaccinators. “Attack dermine our efforts to eradicate cinations.” This comes after the mayun Qayyumi, Afghan Ambas- Nizami advisor to the MoF and 22.86 cubic meters. The contract Another 705 patients have sador in Washington Roya Rah- Ambassador Roya Rahmani to the involved a high price that was not on doctors, health workers and polio by ensuring that the polio Ministry of Public Health in joint fully recovered in the same time. civil servants, who are working vaccine reaches every child,” venture with UNICEF and WHO mani and, a former advisor Shah AGO. in line with the volume of work. The total recoveries have ex- Mohammad Sargand of embez- The case has been investigat- “High-priced deals with several to provide children with health Reid Sirrs, the Canadan ambas- has started the polio vaccination ceeded 51,373 and the deaths to facilities and save their lives, is sador to Afghanistan said. campaign on Monday to vacci- zling more than $719,000 in the ed by the Civil Prosecutor Office companies were immediately 2,484 across the country since the construction of the Afghan em- of the Anti-Corruption and Jus- approved by the National Pro- an atrocity act that has no justi- Horrible news coming out nate 9.6 million children under five outbreak of the pandemic started fication,” Ghani added. from Jalalabad, on the 2nd day years across the country. bassy wall. tice Center (ACJC). curement Authority (NPA). This one year ago. Pajhwok Afghan News re- The prosecutor office wrote should been re-evaluated, but this The Taliban and other ter- of the ongoing polio vaccination According to report totally ported on July 11, 2020, that the on March 3 that the accused — has not been done and no remorse rorist groups by conducting the campaign, said the European 56 cases of polio recorded in 2020, Afghan embassy in the United Sargand, Rahmani and Qayyumi) was shown in the construction Ghani terrorist attack cannot weaken Union in a statement. “The kill- where 75 percent of them were States had reconstructed its — were involved in the embezzle- of the wall.” According to the people’s intention, particularly ing of three female vaccinators, reported in the areas, which were boundary wall measuring 70 ment of $719,220, and they should prosecutor office, six companies the women for a bright future, working to immunise children, is not at access for home to home meters at a cost of around be punished under Articles 388, had offered bids for the wall’s again the statement read. a brutal breach of International polio campaign implementation. $1,825,839 while rejecting an eco- 391 and 403 of the Penal Code. construction. A IS firm offered nomical offer of $88,000 for the Ahmad Fahim Qawim, spokesman the lowest bid ($915,000). How- mistakes.... Fo rm er, curren t o fficials charged o n co rruptio n rebuilding of the same wall. for the Supreme Court, confirmed ever, the National Procurement The Ministry of Foreign Af- to Pajhwok that the matter, which Commission (NPC). In line with ...P12 President Ghani was the ...P1 Sargand former adviser for bassy. It said that 719,000 dol- wall and signed contract with an- fairs (MoFA), denying the report, had reached the court, was re- directives from former finance chairman of Kabul University in President Ghani of embezzling lars were misused and embezzled other company for nearly two promised referring the matter to turned to the AGO to address the minister Humayun Qayyumi ap- 2006, he read the same poem in- around 800,000 US dollars in in this project. The attorney gen- million dollars. the Supreme Audit Institution for shortcomings in investigations. It proved a bid of more than $1.6 correctly. rebuilding a wall of the Afghan eral office asks the primary court The ministry of foreign af- a thorough investigation. has not been returned to the Su- million from the KADCON Haroon Mutaref, another so- embassy in Washington DC. to punish Ms. Rahmani, Mr. fairs had said at the time it would After Pajhwok released the preme Court so far. The prosecu- Company. cial media user wrote on his twit- The attorney general office Sragand and Mr. Qayyoumi. probe the reports. ter, “Wahid Omar presidential ad- said Tuesday that they have re- Media reports said last year that The parliament had referred visor while rehearsing the poem ports of expensing two million Afghan embassy in Washington Rahmani, Sargandd and Qayy- with Ghani in the library, still mis- dollars in rebuilding the 70-meter rejected the offer for 88,000 dol- oumi to attorney general office last read the poem.” long collapsed wall of the em- lars expense in rebuilding of the year to investigate the allegations. The Taliban Thin k They H ave Nisar Aryanfar, another social media user said, the presidential Already Wo n , Peace Deal o r No t advisor should tell Ghani not read It w ill be ill-advised to follow double .... Persian poems in foreign countries. ...P12 compromise, or of going Taliban expert, disputed the idea can peace envoy — would mere- Earlier, Ghani mistakenly read ...P12 development in Afghani- and strive for broad-based, in- tral Asian countries, in a bid to along with the dominant Ameri- that the Taliban are necessarily ly be used by the Taliban as a Persian poems – he read incorrect- stan and the whole region,” he clusive and durable peace through create more development oppor- can idea, power-sharing. bent on reimposing a similarly “Trojan horse” for the seizure of ly a poem by Iqbal Lahori in Is- added. sincere dialogue and negotiations. tunities for the Afghan people.” While the Taliban’s current hard-line Islamic regime. “As long power. lamabad. With the peace and reconcil- International supporting parties Terrorism is a serious chal- rhetoric is also propaganda, the as they can get to power through a “They think they have beat- One of the historical mistakes iation process in Afghanistan should abide by the “Afghan-led, lenge for countries in the region grim sense of Taliban supremacy political agreement, between es- en the Americans, so they can of Ghani was on the day of Ashu- standing at a crucial juncture, Afghan-owned” principle, put and a common enemy of humani- is dictating the response of a des- tablishing the emirate and democ- beat the other Afghan forces as ra, calling Imam Hussin the grand- there is a rare, historic opportu- aside self-interests, uphold fair- ty, he added, saying “it will be ill- perate Afghan government and racy, there are options,” he said. well, and get control over the son of Allah. nity for a political settlement of ness and justice, and contribute advised to follow double standards influencing Afghanistan’s anxious “The aim would be to become the country,” said Jawed Kohistani, the Afghan issue, he added. more positive energy to the peace in counter-terrorism, as they will foreign interlocutors. It contrib- dominant power.” an Afghan analyst and former Taliban favors “In this sense, the theme of and reconciliation process,” he backfire at the end of the day. All utes to the abandonment of doz- The Taliban know that Af- security official in Kabul. Istanbul meeting this Conference, “Strengthening furthered. parties need to join forces and ens of checkpoints and falling ghanistan, an aid-dependent state, It was “totally unrealistic” to Consensus for Peace and Devel- While Afghanistan has made double down on fighting terrorist morale among the Afghan securi- 80 percent of whose expenditures think the insurgents would agree after Ramadan opment”, is most fitting and big strides in economic and so- organizations like Al-Qaida, ISIS ty forces, already hammered by a are funded from international do- to it, “knowing their psycholo- meaningful. Peace is an urgent cial development in recent years, and the ETIM until they are com- “not sustainable” casualty rate of nors, cannot afford the isolation gy,” the official said. “I am not ...P12 compromise. The Istanbul priority and a prerequisite for it lacks internal drivers of growth, pletely eliminated.” perhaps 3,000 a month, a senior of that era, analysts say. promising a better situation in the meeting would focus on the for- development; development is a he said, adding, all parties should Foreign troops should with- Western diplomat in Kabul said. Just as the Taliban have be- future. But we will continue mation of the next government perpetual pursuit and a guaran- provide more targeted support draw from Afghanistan in a re- The group doesn’t hide its come increasingly sophisticated in fighting.” that lays out the reintegration of tee for peace.” The Istanbul Pro- for Afghanistan to enhance its sponsible and orderly way, so as pride at having compelled its prin- their use of social media, online Mr. Ghani sounded a largely the Taliban with the system. It cess involves all of Afghanistan’s capability of independent devel- to prevent the various terrorist cipal adversary for 20 years, the propaganda and a pugnacious En- pessimistic note in remarks to the would also include a 90 days neighbors and major countries in opment, get integrated into re- forces from ramping up and cre- United States to negotiate with glish-language website — though Aspen Institute in January. “In ceasefire agreement. But both the the region, as well as many in- gional economic development, ating trouble, he said, adding, in the Taliban and, last year, to sign they still often ban smartphones their eschatology, Afghanistan is government and Taliban an- ternational players supportive of and grow into a hub of connec- this context, China will continue an agreement to completely within areas they control — so has their the place where the final battle nounced that they would present the Process. tivity and a bridge of economic to strengthen coordination and draw U.S. troops from Afghani- language evolved to reflect the cur- takes place,” he said of the Tali- their own proposal in the meeting Under the changing circum- integration in the heart of Asia. deepen cooperation with all oth- stan by May 1, 2021. In exchange, rent moment. ban. to ensure stability and peace in stances, the role of this mecha- Currently, the implementa- er parties concerned. the Taliban agreed to stop attack- With the decisive shift in their We “hope for the best, but the country. nism in making peace, promot- tion of the China-Afghanistan “China is a friendly neighbor ing foreign forces and to sever ties military fortunes, their words have prepare for the worst,” he said. ing development and building MOU on Belt and Road cooper- of Afghanistan. We will continue with international terrorist groups become assertive and victorious, a The Ghani administration’s consensus has become all the ation is well underway, and Chi- to do the best we can to support, such as Al Qaeda. posture that would have been im- bleak outlook also reflects the in- 32 Taliban more important. na has provided several billion mediate and facilitate Afghani- “No mujahid ever thought possible a mere three years ago, surgent group’s territorial gains. “The Intra-Afghan Negotia- yuan in grant to Afghanistan, he stan’s peace and reconciliation that one day we would face such analysts say. In December, nearly 200 check- militants killed tions have started. This is a hard- furthered. process. We will work in concert an improved state, or that we will The corollary to such postur- points in Kandahar, the Taliban’s won progress. The Afghan issue “During the COVID-19 with all other parties of the Istan- crush the arrogance of the rebel- ing is the Afghan government’s in- historic stronghold, were aban- in latest raids can only be resolved by political pandemic, China has delivered bul Process and the international lious emperors, and force them sistence that it expects a deadly doned by Afghan security forc- means, and the future of Afghan- multiple batches of medical sup- community to bring peace to ev- to admit their defeat at our hands,” endgame with the insurgency. es, according to the U.S. govern- ...P12 rebels, including a key com- istan should be kept in the hands plies and emergency food assis- ery corner of Afghanistan at an the Taliban’s deputy leader, Sira- Government officials rarely claim ment’s Afghanistan watchdog. mander named Nesar Ahmad were of the Afghan people,” he said. tance to Afghanistan, and will early date and deliver the benefits juddin Haqqani, said in a recent that they and not the Taliban are “I think they are 90 percent killed and six others were wound- |All parties to the peace talks soon provide free vaccines to of development to the entire Af- speech. “Fortunately, today, we the victors, because they can’t. right,” said Mr. Giustozzi, of the ed, the ministry said in a state- must act with a sense of respon- Afghanistan. China will contin- ghan people. With our joint sup- and you are experiencing better Evidence of Taliban ascendancy, insurgent group’s claims of vic- ment. sibility to history, to the peo- ue to host the Vice Ministers’ port and help, Afghanistan will circumstances.” in the insurgents’ steady offensive tory. “Clearly the war has been At least 14 Taliban militants ple, and to the country. They Meeting on Trade and Connec- embrace a brighter future,” he fur- Nearly every day, the Tali- in the countryside, their system- lost. Clearly things have gone in were killed and eight others were must stay confident and patient, tivity with Afghanistan and Cen- thered. ban’s website features reports of atic encroachment on cities and the wrong direction. Things have wounded during separate crack- purported defections to its side, their overrunning of military bases, worsened under Ghani. The trend downs carried out by Afghan se- Heart of Asia members urge faster Afghan peace drive though the details are likely exag- is too prevalent. is in their favor.” curity forces in Panjwai and Arghandab districts of Kandahar gerated, just as both the Taliban American negotiators are push- Some analysts caution that ...P12 Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qureshi expressed support for the The Heart of Asia-Istanbul Pro- and the Afghan government exag- ing ideas of compromise and pow- while the Taliban may think they province. Another five insurgents were India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakh- calls of cease-fire and a democrat- cess meeting came ahead of an- gerate each other’s casualties. “59 er-sharing, but government offi- have won, other armed actors in stan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, ic Afghanistan. Earlier, addressing other key international conference enemy personnel switch sides to cials are largely resistant to them the Afghan equation will make a killed and four others, including Joma Talibani the Taliban’s shad- the United Arab Emirates, and the conference, Qureshi warned of on Afghan peace in Turkey. The Islamic Emirate,” read one recent — in part because any interim gov- forced takeover difficult. That Uzbekistan attended the confer- the "internal and external spoil- Turkish Foreign Ministry ex- headline. ernment would most likely require was the experience 25 years ago, ow district chief for Nasai Bada- khshan were wounded during raids ence that pushed for expediting ers" in the Afghan peace drive. pressed readiness to host the con- Having outlasted the all- Afghanistan’s president, Ashraf when the Taliban were forced to the peace drive. In a meeting with “Our message to the Afghan lead- ference in April in a bid to find a powerful Americans, the rest is Ghani, to step down. He has battle warlords principally in the by the Afghan forces in Nasai district of northern Badakhshan prov- Turkish Foreign Minister Mev- ership is to continue and make this peaceful settlement of the con- child’s play, in the Taliban’s view. steadfastly refused to even con- north and east, and failed to gain lut Cavusoglu, Ghani thanked process successful through a sin- flict. The local Etilat-e-Roz daily The game is essentially over. sider it. total control over the entire coun- ince, the statement added. Enough weapons and ammu- Ankara for its support. Both cere, concrete and meaningful dia- in Afghanistan reported that Pres- The Taliban, who governed Instead, the government em- try. sides expressed concerns over the logue as there is no military solu- ident Ashraf Ghani is likely to most of the country from 1996 ploys back-to-the-wall language A militia in central Afghani- nition of the enemy were also destroyed during the operation in the rising violence, and discussed tion to this issue,” he said. The float the idea of early elections at to 2001, are not interested in true indicating that the bloody struggle stan led by Abdul Ghani Alipur, preparations for the Afghan Indian minister said there was need the forthcoming Istanbul confer- sharing-power, Mr. Kohistani will only intensify. Earlier this a local warlord, has already in- mentioned provinces, the statement added. peace conference in Turkey, said for peace within and around Af- ence as an alternate to the US pro- said. “They are planning to re- month, a senior official told report- flamed hostility with the govern- the presidency in a statement. ghanistan. “If the peace process posal for an “inclusive govern- store their Islamic emirate,” he ers inside the intensively guarded ment in recent months. And long- Ghani also held separate meet- is to be successful, then it is nec- ment” for peace with the Taliban. added, “and they will punish all presidential palace complex that a time power brokers in the coun- Se n io r Taliban , ings with Indian External Affairs essary to ensure that the negoti- According to Afghan media, as those involved in corruption and compromise, coalition government try’s west and north have rallied al-Qaeda Minister Subrahmanyam Jais- ating parties continue to engage in per the proposed peace plan by land grabbing.” — recently proposed to both sides fighters to defend against the Tal- hankar and Pakistan’s Foreign good faith, with a serious com- Ghani, a six-month truce would Antonio Giustozzi, a leading by Zalmay Khalilzad, the Ameri- iban, if necessary. commanders Minister Shah Mahmood mitment towards reaching a po- be called ahead of early polls for killed in Paktika Qureshi. The presidency said litical solution,” said Jaishankar. the top seat.

...P12 Indian sub-continent by al- Fo reign m ilitan ts fightin g Qaeda, was killed. Afghanistan Deadline is ‘Too Soon’.... It called the second one as Hazrat Ali, a Pakistan national and ...P12 the security situation in a plus troops in any sort of rea- of the agreement for American un der Taliban in Laghm an Taliban commander who was killed country where more than 2,300 sonable way in six weeks,” Smith forces to leave Afghanistan. along with Tajiki. U.S. troops have been killed said. “So I think there’s a general “There’s a lot of energy fo- “They were financial support since 2001. “I don’t know what feeling that May 1 is too soon.” cused on...doing what’s necessary ...P12 military training for the Earlier, the Taliban denied the foreign minister, Mirwais Nab in in charges of Taliban and al-Qae- the future of Afghanistan is [and] The Trump administration to bring about a responsible end Taliban fighters, according to pro- existence of foreign nationals un- the Heart of Asia Conference- da,” it said. I’m not terribly optimistic about committed last year to the May — a negotiated settlement to the vincial officials. der their command. Istanbul Process called on the The incident took place in the it, but I don’t think that lack of 1 withdrawal date during negoti- war,” Austin said. Laghman Governor, Rahmat- However, the residents con- regional countries to offer efforts Gayan district, the NDS said with- optimism changes if the U.S. ations within the Taliban. Getting the troops them- ullah Yarmal said that these mili- firmed the presence of foreign mil- for a ceasefire in Afghanistan. out elaborating about the opera- stays for another year or anoth- “Job one is to try to get back selves out of the landlocked na- tants are living alongside their itants in Gori village of Alishing “The international terrorist tion. er 10,” he said. “I think in that in and talk with the Taliban about tion is far less complicated than families in Alishing and Dowlat- and Chaklak area of Dawaltshah groups and smugglers attempt to Tajiki and Ali planned to arm regard, we’ve learned the limits at least giving us a little bit more removing heavy armored vehicles, shahi districts of the province. districts. They put the number of undermine the peace efforts,” he insurgents with modern weapons of what we can do there, and it is time,” Smith said. “Now, the sec- drones and other expensive mili- “Our information shows that these militants to around 200. said. “We call on regional and in- in the provinces of Ghazni, Logar time to change our policy and ond piece of it is: as the Taliban tary gear. Typically, the equip- many of them are in the valleys The tribal elders said that the ternational assistants, especially and Zabul, according to the state- pull out responsibly.” gain influence…they have always ment is sent on convoys through of Alishing and Dowlatshahi dis- militants are living in Gori area of the countries that have influence ment. Smith said that about 3,500 had a very hard line: ‘all foreign Pakistan to Karachi where it is tricts,” he added. “Their support- Alishing and Chaklak area of Dow- on the Taliban to work for a cease- Taliban did not immediately U.S. troops remain in Afghani- troops out’ bottom line. And if loaded on container ships for ers are obviously known.” latshahi. This comes as deputy fire and meaningful negotiations.” comment on the NDS allegation. stan, implicitly confirming that continues to be their posi- transport back to the U.S. That’s a New York Times report that tion, I don’t see where we have far cheaper than flying the equip- the Pentagon’s Jan. 15 tally — much choice.” ment out on cargo planes. 2,500 troops — had left In Afghanistan on Sunday, In 2013, the U.S. destroyed Pakistan reiterates co n tin ued suppo rt out another thousand U.S. spe- Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about 20 percent of its armored cial operators. That’s on top of told reporters that U.S. officials vehicles and other equipment val- some 7,500 troops from other were in the “process of review- ued at $7 billion, according to The fo r a po litical en d to Afghan co n flict members of the coalition. ing” whether the Taliban has met Washington Post, when it was “You cannot pull out 10,000 the conditions it agreed to as part trying to end the war by 2014.

...P12 supporting countries who played by Pakistan in this regard. faith, solid and fruitful dialogue,” ic opportunities could jeopardize wanted to achieve the common The progress made so far has he said. the benefits of the Afghan peace goals of peace, stability and pros- certainly provided a historic op- The foreign minister said be- process. Qureshi emphasized on UN ro le in peace talks stressed perity in Afghanistan. portunity for the Afghan leader- sides the historic opportunity, taking forward and strengthening For Pakistan, he said, Af- ship to find a “negotiated, inclu- several challenges for the Afghan the Doha peace process and called ghanistan was an important sive, broad-based and comprehen- nation lied ahead and warned of upon the international communi- in Tajikistan co n feren ce neighbour and brotherly country sive solution” to the problem. the “spoilers inside and outside ty to secure investment in Afghan- with strong historical ties. Qureshi said as part of the ef- Afghanistan”. istan to achieve the goals of pros- ...P12 “stressed UN role in in- operation towards Afghanistan among the countries whose rep- “Pakistan desires peace and forts to engage extensively with He expressed deep concern perity. clusive Afghanistan peace in 2011 with the focus of Af- resentatives attended the first development in Afghanistan more Afghan leaders, Pakistan consis- over the growing incidents of vi- The 9th Heart of Asia-Istan- talks”, he added. ghanistan and Turkey’s efforts. Asia Heart Trends Conference. than any other nation,” he said. tently called for a constructive di- olence across Afghanistan, fear- bul Process Ministerial Confer- The first Asian Heart Con- China, India, Afghanistan, The Asia Heart Conference He recalled the historic de- alogue and engagement to achieve ing that ISIS or al-Qaeda could ence was attended by 15 countries ference, also known as the Istan- Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kaza- has so far held eight meetings in velopment of signing of the US- positive results. gain a foothold in the country. of the region, 16 supporting States bul Process, was held in Istan- khstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Turkey (2011, 2019), Afghanistan Taliban peace agreement in Feb- “Our message to all is to carry He said destruction of infra- and 12 regional and international bul in 2011 with the participa- Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, (2012), Kyrgyzstan (2013), Chi- ruary 2020 and the positive role forward this process through good structure and the lack of econom- organizations. tion of foreign ministers from 14 Turkmenistan, and the United na (2014), Pakistan (2015), India countries to expand regional co- Arab Emirates (UAE) were (2016), and Azerbaijan (2017). WEDNESDAY. MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

I ndia: ‘Cheap popularity’ - Bom bay HC Pakistan to import CanSino pulls up law yer for seeking probe against vaccine in bulk, locally Anil Deshm ukh, Param Bir Singh package 3m doses: Umar The court also asked the AG to club all the petitions together in the case to ensure ‘consistent orders’ in all the pleas. NCOC chief says bulk vaccines to be procured by mid-April, adds country to receive its first batch of vaccine today nal conspiracy took place in the was pending before the police. Ambani house bomb scare case Kumbhakoni also opposed minister said in a Twitter post. as per Param Bir Singh’s letter to Patil’s plea, saying, “There is In another tweet, the minis- Chief Minister Uddhav Thack- shoddy work done by the peti- ter informed that Pakistan will be eray. In the letter, Singh had al- tioner. Everything in the petition receiving the vaccine in bulk by leged that Deshmukh asked now is copy-pasted. There is no effort mid-April, from which it will be suspended and arrested assistant to find the truth and veracity in able to package three million dos- police inspector Sachin Waze to the matter.” He also informed the es. "The bulk vaccine recieved will collect Rs 100 crore every month, court that there were other peti- be formulated, sterilized and including Rs 40-50 crore from tions on similar issue, including packed in Pakistan," he added. 1,750 bars and restaurants in the one filed by Param Bir Singh Umar, who is also the minis- Mumbai. Deshmukh has denied seeking a CBI probe against Desh- ter for planning and development, the allegations against him. mukh which will be taken up by a further said that special equip- Questioning Patil over her bench led by Chief Justice Dipan- ment bulk vaccine recieved will ‘locus standi’ on the matter, a di- kar Datta on Wednesday. be formulated, sterilised and vision bench of Justices S S On this, the court asked the packed in Pakistan. For this pur- Shinde and Manish Pitale said, AG to see whether all the peti- pose, he maintained, special “Entire petition is cut-copy- tions could be clubbed together to equipment has been procured and paste. What is your locus stan- ensure ‘consistent orders’ in all the manpower is being trained. di? Can you set criminal law in pleas. “On instructions, the state A week ago, on March 23, the motion? Prima facie, we are of will move for clubbing petitions minister said that Pakistan would the opinion that such petitions for common hearing,” the bench receive its first purchase of over are filed for cheap popularity. It noted in the order and posted fur- one million doses of Chinese Si- is unacceptable. Pleadings should ther hearing on Patil’s plea to April nopharm and CanSino Covid-19 have been made properly. How 1 awating decision on clubbing vaccines by the end of March. such an important petition is like petitions. Param Bir Singh has National Command and Opera- vaccine after receiving it in bulk This, he said, will be the first The Bombay High Court Tues- filed for cheap popularity”. Mum- this?” The court also asked Ad- sought direction to state govern- tion Centre (NCOC) chief Asad in mid-April. "First batch of consignment of Covid-19 vac- day rapped a lawyer for filing a bai-based lawyer Jaishri Patil had vocate General Ashutosh Kum- ment to ensure transfer/posting of Umar informed on Tuesday that cansino vaccine procured being cines the federal government has “copy-paste” petition against filed a plea seeking a CBI probe in bhakoni, appearing for the state police officials are neither done on Pakistan will be receiving its first recieved today. This is the vac- purchased from any manufactur- Maharashtra Home Minister Anil the corruption allegations against government, as to what action pecuniary benefits to any politi- batch of CanSino vaccine for cine in which Pakistan partici- er for the 220 million people. He Deshmukh and former Mumbai Deshmukh. The plea also sought was taken on the complaint filed cian nor in contravention of SC Covid-19 today, adding that the pated in phase 3 trials, which was said the government was in talks Police Commissioner Param Bir directions to secure CCTV foot- by Patil, to which the state gov- orders based on principle of insu- country will be locally packag- the first time ever that Pakistan with the same companies to pur- Singh, saying it was “prima facie age of places where alleged crimi- ernment responded that the same lating police machinery. ing three million doses of the had done so for any vaccine," the chase a further seven million.

Nepal: Dahal files petition at Supreme Court seeking to review the decision to revive UML and Maoist Centre

Communist Party of Nepal (Mao- istering the review petition, Dahal Since the court decision to revive About 300 Rohingya Muslim ref- ist Centre) chair Pushpa Kamal told reporters that he has always the UML and the Maoist Cen- ugees were still unaccounted for Dahal has registered a petition at been saying that the court deci- tre, politics, however, has been last week after a huge fire swept the Supreme Court seeking to re- sion was unnatural and unjustified deadlocked. It was expected that through the world’s biggest refu- view its March 7 decision to re- and he has made his disagreement the Maoist Centre would with- gee settlement in Bangladesh, the vive the CPN-UML and the Mao- since the day the judgment was draw its support it lent Oli in U.N. refugee agency said on Tues- ist Centre. On March 7, passing passed. “We believe that the court February 2018. Such a move day. “Many families are still be- a verdict on an almost three-year- would correct its decision of a would have forced Oli to seek a ing reunited,” Andreij Mahecic, a old case, a division bench of Jus- political nature which has split the vote of confidence in the House. spokesman for the U.N. refugee tices Kumar Regmi and Bam Ku- parties that had united at a time With its indecision, the Maoist agency, UNHCR, told journalists, mar Shrestha scrapped the Nepal when the country was on its path Centre, in a way, has given Oli adding that 11 deaths had been Communist Party (NCP), which of political stability for peace and the free hand. Oli now is trying officially declared. The blaze tore was registered under the names prosperity,” said Dahal. Ram to cultivate the Janata Samajbadi through the cramped camp in of KP Sharma Oli and Dahal, and Narayan Bidari, a Maoist Centre Party, as its support would help southeast Bangladesh’s Cox’s Ba- ordered the reinstatement of the member who helped draft the pe- him remain in power even if the zar district last Monday, forcing UML and the Maoist Centre to tition, said that in their review Maoist Centre withdraws its about 45,000 people from their bamboo and plastic homes. The their pre-merger stage. The UML petition, they have also argued that support. The Nepali Congress, Pakistan government called the and the Maoist Centre had the Supreme Court had entered on the other hand, has maintained high commissioner to Islamabad merged in May 2018. "The Su- into politics while passing the that it is not going to make any for consultations, according to preme Court has registered Da- March 7 decision. The UML and move to unseat Oli and lead a new diplomatic sources. The high hal's review petition," said Dev- the Maoist Centre now are func- government in an alliance with the commissioner briefed the PM endra Dhakal, an information of- tioning as two different parties, just Maoist Centre and the Janata Sa- about the relations between the ficer at Supreme Court. After reg- like they did before May 2018. majbadi Party. two countries. Sri Lanka and China India: BJP richest Nepal: Court seeks copies of sign US$ 1 .5 billion Nepal’s and Bhattarai’s Cabinet party in the decisions in relation to currency sw ap deal Lalita Niwas land transfers The Central Bank of Sri Lanka This swap agreement has been world, alleges (CBSL) and the People’s Bank of approved by the Cabinet of Min- China (PBoC) have entered into isters with the recommendation of a bilateral currency swap agree- the Monetary Board of CBSL. Rajasthan CM ment with a view to promoting Governors of the two Central bilateral trade and direct invest- Banks, Deshamanya Professor W ment for economic development D Lakshman of CBSL and Dr. Yi of the two countries, and to be Gang, Governor of PBOC, are the Rajasthan chief minister Ashok nomination. All senior Congress ers and youth resent the BJP be- used for other purposes agreed signatories to the agreement. Gehlot on Tuesday claimed that leaders – Gehlot, AICC general cause they are imposing agri- upon by both parties, CBSL said. Under this agreement, CBSL Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is secretary Ajay Maken, state PCC laws, misgovernance and infla- The People’s Republic of is entitled for a swap facility the richest political party in the chief Govind Singh, and former tion.” In Sahara, he said support- China remains Sri Lanka’s largest amounting to CNY 10 billion (ap- world and they have no dearth of deputy CM Sachin Pilot travelled ing the Congress will send out a source of imports. In 2020, im- proximately US$ 1.5 billion). The money. “They brought demone- together in a chopper and ad- message of a stable and strong ports from China amounted to agreement is valid for a period of tisation, threaten industrialists dressed public meetings in the government. “Let BJP try, but and now they have started elec- three constituencies going for by- they aren’t coming in power The Supreme Court has sought had allegedly decided to register US$ 3.6 billion (22.3% of Sri Lan- three (3) years. copies of the Cabinet decisions government-owned land in the ka’s imports). (ER) toral bonds. We hoped that the polls. On farmers’ movement, the again in Assam and even in West Supreme Court will ban them but CM said, “They [BJP] have won Bengal. Their party is divided taken during the tenures of name of a guthi. As there cannot it did not. If the industry takes with the blessings of farmers, got from top to bottom, which has former prime ministers Madhav be tenants in the government out bonds for ?100 crore, gives a huge majority in Parliament but become visible in these elec- Kumar Nepal and Baburam Bhat- lands, Bhattarai-led Cabinet has Pakistan: IHC overturns ?95 crore to the BJP and divides are not listening to agitated farm- tions,” he said. BJP spokesper- tarai with regards to land trans- been accused of facilitating land ?5 crore among the Congress, ers… They are adamant.” He also son Mukesh Pareek hit back at fers of Lalita Niwas in Baluwa- dealers to get hold of the prime cabinet’s decision on CPI, CPM, BSP, how will the urged the Centre to talk to the the Congress over the allegation tar. Justices Anil Kumar Sinha lands through fake tenants. democracy be strong if it isn’t an farmers and Opposition parties. of being the richest because of and Hari Phuyal ordered on “Originally, there was no equal fight?”the CM asked while The CM today mentioned Pi- electoral bonds, said his party Monday that the copies of the ownership of any guthi in any appointments in NCHR, NCSW addressing the nomination rally lot in his speech stating that par- has more funds but it also has Cabinet decisions and other rele- portion of disputed government of party candidate for Sujangarh ty is committed to fulfill the prom- the largest membership. Its vant documents, including the land in Baluwatar and there were ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad by the Parliamentary Committee (Churu) bypolls, Manoj Megh- ises made in manifesto, which was workers bring in funds which are proposals that were made in re- not a single tenant. But fake ten- High Court on Monday reversed have been described under Sub- wal. All three Congress candi- made when Pilot was state party then utilised for the party and lation to the transfer of govern- ants were created after bringing the federal cabinet’s decision re- section (3) of Section 4 of the dates – Meghwal, Gayatri Trive- chief. Addressing a gathering in Su- elections. “The Congress, which ment lands in the name of pri- certain land under the ownership garding appointment of chairper- NCHR Act. Directs government di from Sahara (Bhilwara), and jangarh, Pilot said, “The bypolls is facing a dearth of leadership, vate individuals, be presented of a guthi just to give the land to sons of the National Commission to withdraw public notices issued Tansukh Bohra from Rajsamand will not make or dent a does not have workers. Their before the court. some interest groups,” said former for Human Rights (NCHR) and in connection with appointment (Udaipur) filed their nomination government...But the results will leaders have broken all records The court was responding to secretary Sharada Prasad Trital, National Commi-ssion on Status of chairpersons Through a peti- today on the last day of filing the send a message to Delhi that farm- of corruption,” he said. a writ filed by senior advocate under whose leadership the gov- of Women (NCSW) and directed tion, a citizen informed the IHC Balkrishna Neupane. ernment had formed a probe com- the Ministry of Human Rights to that following the cabinet’s deci- Neupane had filed the case mittee on the Baluwatar land comply with the legal provisions. sion taken at its meeting on Nov on February 10 last year. The scam. On February 5 last year, The federal government un- 17 last year, the human rights min- National Action Plan for healthcare court has asked authorities to the Commission for Investigation der Section 4 of the National istry had published public notices present the copies of the Cabi- of Abuse of Authority filed cor- Commission for Human Rights in various daily newspapers. net decisions taken on April 11, ruption charges against 175 indi- (NCHR) Act 2012 is mandated A copy of the advertisement/ waste management in Sri Lanka 2010; May 14, 2010; April 13, viduals in relation to the Baluwa- 2010 and October 4, 2012 and tar land grab case. The anti-cor- to invite suggestions regarding public notice was submitted to the Sri Lanka generates 7,000 Met- on HCWM, to inform the articu- the Rapid Assessment to the suitable persons for high court. The court examined the other documents through the ruption body, however, spared a ric Tonnes (MT) of waste daily, lation of a National Action Plan, formulation of the National Ac- Office of the Attorney General. number of key people, including appoint-ment as chairperson and public notice and observed that be- of which only half of the total is covering short and medium-term tion Plan. This is a timely and members of the commission. Af- sides inviting suggestions, appli- Nepal served as the prime Nepal and Bhattarai. The com- collected and 60% (4,200 MT) interventions in line with interna- important exercise, and while minister from May 25, 2009 to mission did not initiate action ter proper scrutiny, the federal cations from interested persons comes from the Western Prov- tional best practices. The work- thanking UNDP Sri Lanka for its government has to submit a list were also invited. IHC Chief Jus- February 6, 2011. Similarly, against Nepal and Bhattarai, say- ince, posing severe pollution shop to inform the Formulation collaboration with the Ministry, Bhattarai was the prime minis- ing even though the decisions to of suitable persons to the prime tice Athar Minallah pointed out risks; to the environment, com- of the National Action Plan for we look forward to working to- minister and the opposition lead- that Section 4 of the NCHR Act ter from August 29, 2011 to illegally transfer the government munities and those who handle Healthcare Waste Management in gether in implementing the Na- March 14, 2013. The Nepal-led land into private hands were tak- er in the National Assembly. 2012 unambiguously showed that waste. This issue of waste mis- Sri Lanka was held recently at the tional Action Plan.” The mode of appointment in the legislature had not intended to management, heightened due to BMICH in Colombo, facilitated The UN Sri Lanka’s Advi- Cabinet had decided to expand en during their tenures, the deci- the NCSW is also the same. The “invite applications” from inter- COVID-19 in terms of Health by the Ministry of Health and sory Note on the socio-econom- the area of the prime minister’s sions constituted “policy deci- prime minister in consultation ested persons. The petitioner is Care Waste Management UNDP in Sri Lanka with the atic recovery from COVID-19 in residence in Baluwatar by giving sions”, which the commission with the opposition leader is re- aggrieved because the NCSW and (HCWM) with the increase in the tendance of relevant Government Sri Lanka developed to inform certain land to fake tenants. cannot look into. quired to forward three names for NCHR have been dysfunctional use of Personal Protective Equip- ministies, departments, academics, the country’s recovery strategy Such a decision taken by the “If the court does not recog- each post to the Parliamentary since 2019. The former was es- ment (PPEs) and other protec- UN agencies and development identified five strategic priorities. Cabinet on April 11 could not be nise those as Cabinet decisions as Committee for hearing and con- tablished under the National Com- tive measures taken to contain the sector stakeholders. Speaking at This includes; protecting health implemented due to the refusal policy decisions, it will open the firmation of any one person for mission on the Status of Women spread of the virus. The United the event, Dr. Inoka Suraweera, systems during crises; social of the land reform office as per door for the commission to pros- each post. If there is no consen- Act 2012 and the latter under the Nations Development Pro- Consultant- Environment, Health, protection and other basic ser- allegations made by a probe com- ecute even Nepal and Bhattarai,” sus then each is required to for- NCHR Act 2012. The petitioner gramme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, Occupational Health & Food Safe- vices; economic response and mittee. Then, the Cabinet on said Neupane, the lawyer who ward a separate list to the Parlia- contended that the language of Sec- leveraging its global and regional ty, Ministry of Health stated, “we recovery; social cohesion and May 14, decided to instruct the filed the petition. Neupane in his mentary Committee. The statu- tion 4 of the Act was unambigu- expertise, supported the Govern- greatly appreciate the valuable community resilience, and mac- land revenue offices to imple- petition had claimed that the de- tory requirements for consider- ous. There is a distinction between ment of Sri Lanka to conduct a contributions from all stakehold- ro-economic response and mul- ment the Cabinet decision. cision to give the government land ing and recommending the names “inviting suggestions.” Nationwide Rapid Assessment ers involved, from the process of tilateral cooperation. The Bhattarai-led Cabinet to any individual. WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES News-in-Brief Suez Canal: Portugal Russia rejects announces dispatch Ethiopiaurgently Egypt's Sisi of military troops dialogue with US from promises new to Mozambique needsinclusive equipment to Portuguese Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva announced a position of force prevent repeat on television the dispatch of 60 soldiers to the city of Palma, in ed States nor anyone else talk to Mozambique, where the Al-Sha- nationaldialogue of blockage bab radical Islamic group oper- us like that. This is out of the question,' Peskov stressed. An- ates. The operation is led by the Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Portuguese consul general in swering the question whether a Maputo, and the objective is to break in diplomatic relations with el-Sisi promised his government provide support to Portuguese the White House is possible, the would buy equipment to prevent residents in the area, mostly Kremlin spokesman said he the Suez Canal blockage from merchants, Silva told the RTL would not like 'to talk about ex- happening again, as the reopened channel. The city of Pemba, 400 treme scenarios.' About possible waterway prepared to once again kilometers south of Palma, and common themes for dialogue with receive scores of ships travelling the capital of the region, is under Washington, Peskov mentioned through. Suez Canal Authority siege by Al-Shabab, and there are those related to strategic stabili- chairman Osama Rabie said they several industrial projects relat- ty, arms control and the settle- expected to see 140 ships pass ed to gas. The government of ment of regional conflicts 'in through the canal on Tuesday af- Mozambique reported on Sun- which the presence of the United ter 113 transited overnight follow- day dozens of deaths as a result States may have some practical ing the release of grounded con- of the attacks. tainer ship Ever Given. He said significance,' he said. He pointed 95 ships would pass by 7pm lo- out that it is also necessary to cal time and a further 45 by mid- Ethnic Guerrillas talk about the Joint Comprehen- night, reasserting that he hoped a Give Ultimatum sive Plan of Action (JCPOA) backlog caused by the blockage linked to the Iranian nuclear pro- would be cleared in three to four To Myanmar's gram, abandoned by former Pres- days. The huge container ship got ident Donald Trump, and on stuck across the canal on 23 Military Junta 'many other problem situations The civil war in the Tigray re- stances where men were forced March blocking maritime traffic in the world,' the Kremlin spokes- gion of Ethiopia is fuelling a vi- to rape family members. Tigray- for nearly a week and risking se- Besides attacking the urban man said. The relationships be- cious national and regional con- an forces have also been accused vere damage to Egypt's economy. population, the military junta Russia rejects that the United and Facts. 'It is impossible. The tween Moscow and Washington flagration. The five-month-long of committing atrocities. As the Speaking during a visit to Is- has been bombing by air the re- States or any other country talk United States is now repeating like have worsened in the last two conflict, which Ethiopia initially country sinks deep into a grind- mailia, headquarters of the Suez gion controlled by the Karen to itself from a position of a mantra: we will speak with ev- weeks after US President Joseph defended as a rule-of-law opera- ing insurgency, the humanitari- Canal Authority, Sisi said the cri- guerrillas. The Arakan Army, the strength, Kremlin spokesman eryone from a position of strength,' Biden, during an interview with tion with “clear, limited and an crisis is worsening. Three- sis had shown "how important the Taang National Liberation Dmitry Peskov said in state- noted the Presidency press secre- ABC channel, said that Russia canal is to the world". "We will Army, and the Myanmar Na- achievable objectives”, metasta- quarters of Tigray’s estimated ments published on Tuesday by tary, who said that no Russian lead- should have to 'pay the price' for sised into a lawless and bloody 6 million people need emergen- acquire all the necessary equip- tional Democratic Alliance Army weekly newspaper Arguments er will allow that 'neither the Unit- its alleged interference. ment for the canal" to avoid simi- on Tuesday threatened to annul war, leading to credible allegations cy assistance, with many areas of war crimes, ethnic cleansing still inaccessible and thousands lar incidents, assured Sisi, who on their cease-fire agreement if the Monday described the sea giant's military junta continues to kill and crimes against humanity. on the brink of starvation. More Rights groups like Amnesty than 60,000 people have fled clearance operations as an "Egyp- citizens. "I am delighted and Thailand tian" success. After seven days of grateful to our brothers and sis- International and Human Rights into Sudan and an estimated 2 ters... for once again showing Watch, have provided disturbing million people have been dis- blockage, the canal's technical denies security Irantocontinueits teams finally managed to put the strong leadership against this accounts of atrocities, breath- placed internally. The political brutal and illegitimate regime," ship afloat on Monday afternoon taking in scale and scope, where and humanitarian upheaval af- and the first ships were able to said Dr. SaSa, who is acting as forces pushed Eritrean troops and Amhara mi- flicting Tigray is stoking fears spokesman for the "legitimate start moving in the canal around litias, fighting alongside the Ethi- of a violent disintegration of the 6pm on Monday evening. government" that the elected. people back nuclear activities opian army, massacred civilians, Ethiopian state and broader re- On Tuesday morning, accord- to Myanmar committed horrific acts of sexual gional instability. Already, op- ing to maritime traffic viewing Armenian legislation Iran will only end its current nu- side the Joint Comprehensive violence and “completely erased” position parties in Tigray are sites, some ships circulating in the clear activities when the United Plan of Action (JCPOA) or nu- whole villages. Media reports calling for a referendum on the canal - a sign of a return to normal draws criticism from Thailand’s prime minister has States lifts coercive measures im- clear deal. show that Eritrean troops carried future of their region. There is a - were of a size similar to Ever press advocates denied that his country’s securi- posed on the Islamic Republic, a These measures adopted by out grisly massacres, gang-raped dangerous military build-up on Given, more than 200,000 tons ty forces forced villagers back to note from hispantv.com states on Iran are included in articles 26 and and tortured women, and engaged the Sudan-Ethiopia border after and 400 meters long. But dozens New Armenian legislation that Myanmar who had fled from Tuesday. Based on statements by 36 of the JCPOA that stipulate in extensive and deliberate acts Sudanese forces occupied terri- of ships remained waiting at both would impose crippling penal- military air strikes, saying they an unidentified official, the web- the right to take corrective deci- of plunder and destruction of ci- tories previously under Ethio- ends of the canal, which is 190km ties for insult and defamation is returned home on their own ac- site mentions the response to re- sions in case of violations of any vilian infrastructure. A report by pian control. There are also re- long and links the Mediterranean coming under criticism from lo- cord. Prime Minister Prayuth ports from US website Politico of the others. the United States government ac- ports that Eritrean troops are to the Red Sea, carrying around cal and international press free- Chan-ocha, nevertheless, said his about a proposal that Washington In 2018, Washington with- cused the Amhara militia of “de- deployed along the Ethiopia- 10 percent of world trade. A total dom advocates, who are urging country is ready to shelter any- envisages to revive the nuclear deal. drew from the multilateral deal liberately and efficiently render- Sudan border. of 422 ships, loaded with goods, the president not to sign it into one who is escaping fighting, as According to the anonymous signed in 2015 between Tehran ing Western Tigray ethnically To understand how the vio- oil and even livestock, had re- law. The law would triple the it his done many times in recent source, Iranian authorities reiter- and the G5+1 (the United States, homogeneous through the organ- lence broke out in Tigray, one mained stranded. Among them, existing penalties for “insult” decades. His comments came a ate that they will only accept the the United Kingdom, France, ised use of force and intimida- has to look into the broader po- 113 crossed the canal overnight and defamation to three million day after humanitarian groups complete lifting of the US embar- Russia and China plus Germany) tion” – an act that Antony litical crisis gripping Ethiopia, between 6pm Monday and 8am drams ($5,700) and six million said Thailand has been sending go to return to the origin of the and by order of former President Blinken, the US secretary of which is an extension of the deep Tuesday, said Rabie. The gigantic ($11,400), respectively. Arme- back some of the thousands of pact. In addition, the text explained Donald Trump, it undertook a state, called “ethnic cleansing”. ideological and structural con- traffic jam should take three or nia’s parliament passed the leg- people who have fled a series of that Iran's steps regarding cuts in maximum pressure policy with The UN has reported more than tradictions pushing the country four days to subside, according to islation on March 24 on a 76-40 Myanmar military air strikes. its commitments were never out- very harsh sanctions. 500 cases of rape, including in- to the brink. the authorities. vote. The two opposition par- “There is no influx of refu- ties opposed the legislation. The bill was initiated by Alen Simo- gees yet. We asked those who nyan, the deputy speaker of crossed to Thailand if they have parliament and a close ally of any problem in their area. When Bulgaria gears up for Prime Minister Nikol. they say no problem, we just N.Macedonia could move asked them to return to their land first. We asked, we did not use April 4 parliamentary polls Bolsonaro ousts any force,” Prayuth told report- against FETO terror: Premier to p m in isters as ers. “We won’t push them back,” Voters in Bulgaria will head to regain power. The party, formed he said. ’If they are having fight- the polls on April 4 for the coun- at the start of Bulgaria’s journey pan dem ic spirals ing, how can we do so? But if North Macedonia is ready to take o ut o f co n tro l they don’t have any fighting at action against the Fetullah Terror- try’s 11th parliamentary elec- toward democracy, has a majority the moment, can they go back ist Organization (FETO) – the tions since the overthrow of of Turks among its members and first?” group behind the 2016 defeated communist dictator Todor has played a key role in the coun- President Jair Bolsonaro an- Zhivkov in 1989. Some 6.3 mil- try’s politics for over three de- nounced sweeping cabinet chang- Over 500 protesters killed coup in Turkey – if Turkey pre- es amid growing pressure from The weekend strikes, which sents additional evidence on its lion eligible voters, including cades. The MRF has been in the the pandemic that’s ravaging sent ethnic Karen people to seek suspected members, said the coun- around 850,000 Turks and Mus- opposition since Prime Minister Brazil. Bolsonaro, an idiosyn- safety in Thailand, were another try’s prime minister on Tuesday. lims, will elect members to the Boyko Borisov’s party, Citizens cratic rightist who swept into escalation in the violent crack- "In order for our Justice Min- 240-seat National Assembly, the for the European Development of office just over two years ago in down by Myanmar’s junta on istry and relevant judicial institu- country’s unicameral parlia- Bulgaria (GERB), formed a coali- a Trumpian triumph, had to ac- protests against its February 1 tions to take action, there must be ment, from 22 political parties tion government with the ultra-na- cept members of the centrist es- takeover. At least 510 protesters decisions and court documents on and eight coalitions. Sunday’s tionalist United Patriots (OP) al- tablishment he once disdained have been killed since the coup, the [suspected] members," Zoran vote will be the first regular par- liance in 2017. Bulgaria’s Turkish while seeking to hold onto his according to Myanmar’s Assis- Zaev said in response to Aleksan- liamentary election since 2009, and Muslim population has tradi- military and ideological bases. dar Veljanovski, a member of the following repeated snap polls. tionally voted for the MRF and The resignations and firings on tance Association for Political Prisoners, which says the actual opposition Internal Macedonian The elections hold special will be aiming to get the party back Monday spanned a half a dozen significance for Bulgaria’s Mus- in the government this Sunday. top posts, including minister of toll is likely much higher. It says Revolutionary Organization, in 2,574 people have been detained. parliament. He added: "Of course, Macedonia condemned the de- terior ministers have excellent co- lim and Turkish population, as Borisov’s GERB party has also defense, foreign affairs and jus- they serve as a chance for the been wooing Turks and Muslims tice. The new secretary of the Protests continued Tuesday de- we will take action if additional feated 2016 coup attempt, he operation on the details about the government is from. spite the deaths of more than 100 evidence is presented in accordance said. "Personally, I have informed organized crime of the alleged centrist Movement for Rights in the country, but the OP alliance people on Saturday alone. with international law." North the president of Turkey. Our in- FETO group. and Freedoms (MRF) party to has based its electoral campaign. Syrian refugee pulls out of German Qat ar reject s Egypt RussiaStagesFresh parliament race detains 8 Syrian refugee Tareq Alaows HRW report on announced on Tuesday that he MilitaryDrillsintheArctic has withdrawn his candidacy people in for German parliament as he had w omen's right s, Russia was holding fresh mili- Land archipelago, that are expect- experienced racism and received tary exercises on Tuesday in the ed to include more than 40 sepa- serious threats during his cam- Sohag train Arctic, a territory of growing rate drills. On Monday, the de- paign. “My candidacy has f reedom importance for Moscow as it fense ministry announced the be- shown that we need strong crash vies for regional dominance with ginning of command exercises by structures in all parties, poli- rivals including the United the Northern Fleet that would tics and society that counter Qatar yesterday rejected a report mentioned in the report are not the highest percentage of women States. Tensions between the continue over “several days.” The structural racism and help those prepared by Human Rights aligned with our constitution, laws enrolled in university pro- Egypt's top prosecutor yesterday ordered the detention of eight West and Russia have led both exercises include tests of Pantsir- affected,” the 31-year-old mem- Watch about women's rights and or policies. The government will grammes," it added. Qatar has sides to beef up their militaries S1 anti-aircraft systems, in-flight ber of the Greens party said in freedoms in the Gulf state, say- investigate these cases and prose- strengthened its efforts to ensure people following a train collision in Upper Egypt. Two trains col- in the remote High North, an refueling of a MiG-31 fighter jet, a statement. Alaows, who fled ing that gender equality and fe- cute anyone who has broken the that all women have access to the area believed to be rich in natu- and jamming the controls of drones civil war in his homeland six male empowerment are central to law." "In Qatar, women hold prom- highest levels of education and lided on Friday in Egypt's south- years ago, had been actively in- ern province of Sohag, leaving 18 ral resources and where melting simulating an attack. Last Friday, the country's success and vision. inent roles in all aspects of life, opportunities in all sectors, it ice has opened up new shipping the drills saw three nuclear-pow- volved in non-governmental in- "The report issued by Hu- including economic and political explained, especially in science, passengers dead and 200 others itiatives to help refugees in Ger- injured. In an official statement, routes. The Russian military on ered submarines break ice and sur- man Rights Watch inaccurately decision making," it said. "Qatar technology, engineering, and March 20 launched massive Arc- face simultaneously and also fea- many. He had announced. portrays Qatar's laws, policies, leads the region by nearly every mathematics. Earlier yesterday, the general prosecutor said that the detention order had included tic maneuvers near Alexandra tured a nuclear submarine firing a and practices related to women," gender equality indicator. This in- HRW issued a 94-page report Land, part of the Franz Josef torpedo from beneath the ice. Italy and Germany the Qatari Government Commu- cludes the highest labour force par- entitled "'Everything I Have to the "drivers of the two trains, nication Office said in a state- ticipation rate for women, equal Do is Tied to a Man': Women and their assistants, the Maragha rail- tighten rules for EU ment, adding that "the accounts pay in the government sector, and Qatar's Male Guardianship. way station supervisor, and the travel amid third head and two observers at the UN Chief Calls for Bold wave of pandemic central control unit in Assiut gov- Turkey plans to offer the world its Covid-19 vaccine ernorate." Measures To Tackle Debt Crisis Italy plans to introduce a five- The statement pointed out that a day quarantine for all travellers Turkish President Recep Tayy- cated and so far about a hundred be difficult to achieve an econom- preliminary inspection of the incident's site had shown that the "Ultimately, we need a shift in quidity. Six countries have already arriving from European Union ip Erdogan announced his coun- countries lack access to the vac- ic recovery in the countries with- mindsets towards responsible defaulted. One-third of emerging countries, health ministry sourc- try's to offer the world its own cines. In a video addressed to a out a general immunization pro- "train coming from Egypt's es said on Tuesday. Travellers borrowing and lending," Gu- market economies are at high risk SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, as per the meeting on financing for develop- cess. southern city of Aswan crashed terres pointed out. UN Secre- of fiscal crisis. And the situation will also be required to take a capital's press reports. ment in times of the pandemic and For this reason, states that into the back of the other train coronavirus test before leaving tary-General Antonio Guterres is even worse for least-developed According to the Anadolu beyond, organized by the UN, the have excess vaccines can contrib- while it was standing beside the on Monday called for urgent, and low-income countries. They the country and a further test level crossing, which led passen- after their quarantine period is agency, Erdogan pointed out that statesman drew attention to ine- ute to others, he commented. Al- bold measures to address an face a painfully slow recovery that over. Italy already had similar Turkey plans to offer a national qualities in the world for the ap- though the president promised ger cars in both trains to flip over emerging debt crisis caused will put the 2030 Agenda for Sus- measures in place for non-EU vaccine against the disease under plication of vaccines. that the total vaccination of the and derail." largely by COVID-19. "We are tainable Development and the Par- countries. Germany also an- appropriate conditions, as soon While some countries have al- country's population will end by "Eighteen passengers were killed on the verge of a debt crisis. is Agreement completely out of nounced on Tuesday that it as development works are com- ready immunized nearly all of their May or June of this year, a total and 200 others were injured, in- Today's meeting, convened with reach. Developing countries need would tighten land border con- pleted. For the Turkish presi- populations, billions of people of around 14.5 million out of a cluding children. Human remains our partners, the prime minis- access to additional liquidity to trols for the next 8 to 14 days. dent, the issue of vaccines to around the world have been unable population of more than 83 mil- were found on site as well," the ters of Canada and Jamaica, is a respond to the pandemic and to "It doesn't matter where you combat the advance of the Cov- to receive the first dose, he consid- lion have been immunized so far. statement read. call for urgent action," he told a invest in recovery. The interna- come from, Poland.” id-19 pandemic becomes compli- ered. Erdogan confirmed that it will (AP) (BBC) high-level event on debt and li- tional community. WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

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

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

Afghan schoolgirls attend the first day of the academic year after educational institutes opened in Herat, Afghanistan, on March 23. (Jalil Rezayee/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

By Renard Sexton and tails of the U.S. plan were school ceived a majority of support from Christoph Zurcher known, although the peace pro- We found Taliban majority con- survey respondents. What con- visions tested were known to be trol of the post-peace govern- figuration was most popular? A An interim peace plan proposal part of the negotiations. ment had no effect (neither pos- peace deal that increased wom- involving a possible power-shar- Using a random sampling of itive nor negative) on citizen sup- en’s rights, and included demo- ing deal between the Afghan gov- phone numbers, the survey port for the proposal, on aver- cratic elections and strong sup- ernment and the Taliban — and a asked 4,500 respondents across age. This indifference holds for port for Islamic law, received 80 leaked letter from Secretary of Afghanistan to respond to a hy- all of Afghanistan’s ethnic percent support on average. But State Antony Blinken to President pothetical peace arrangement groups. This was a surprising reversing each of those three pro- Going through more than 40 years of relentless war, the Af- Ashraf Ghani — appeared to that randomly varied along four finding to us: Even though the visions to their non-favored ver- ghans are in need of humanitarian services almost more than shake up the Afghanistan peace important dimensions: (1) wom- Taliban have claimed responsi- sion (reduced women’s rights, no negotiations in March. en’s public role in society, (2) bility for a growing number of elections, Islamic law is not su- any other nation on the surface of this planet. Based on human Blinken’s letter notes the “urgen- Taliban majority control of gov- violent attacks, their inclusion in perior) still garnered support from cy” of moving the peace process ernment, (3) democratic elec- government is not a dealbreaker 50 percent of the population, ac- rights watchdog’s findings about two million Afghan children forward. The situation is also in- tions and (4) authority of Islam- even among ethnic groups that cording to our survey. The most creasingly urgent for the Afghan ic law. The responses were re- have suffered a great deal. In con- striking finding was that the role are struggling with extreme starvation and lack of healthcare public, who, despite promising weighted against national demo- trast, the role of women in pub- of the Taliban in a postwar gov- systems. With the violence spilling over across the country, developments in peace negotia- graphics to make the results as lic life boosted support for peace ernment is simply not as polariz- tions, have experienced a spike in representative as possible. in our survey. Of respondents ing as one might have expected, the national and international humanitarian services are fac- violent attacks over the past few Overall, we found that 63 per- who heard about a peace deal given the long conflict. Going in, months. The U.S. draft peace plan cent of survey respondents sup- that increased the role of wom- we might have expected Pashtuns ing hurdles to provide health, logistic and food services for has several key provisions, includ- ported the peace deal that they en, 74 percent supported it — (the largest ethnic group and, gen- ing maintaining democratic elec- were presented with, including a but a peace deal with a decreased erally speaking, co-ethnics of the the people who are deprived of access to essential materials tions and an equitable power-shar- majority of both men and wom- role for women garnered just 56 Taliban) to be supportive of a mostly living in the rural areas. But what is the prime reason ing agreement between the Tali- en, and a majority of respon- percent support. This 18-per- Taliban majority government, but ban and the Afghan government. dents from each of Afghanistan’s centage point gap is the largest Tajiks — the country’s second- for lack of such essential services in the country – is the ongo- Implicit in the document are sup- major ethnic groups. After two of any of the provisions we test- largest ethnic group — and Haz- port for women’s rights and con- decades of war, these results sug- ed. The effect is also consistent aras, a minority group that has ing harsh violence that pushed back the humanitarian organi- stitutional law over Islamic law. gest a broad swath of the Afghan across ethnic groups, although historically suffered from discrim- zations from providing services in the far parts of the country. Negotiating peace the same old public is supportive of peace. women respondents had a stron- ination, to be opposed. Instead, way doesn’t work. Here’s what Indifference to the Taliban; sup- ger positive reaction than men. A we find that on average, people The humanitarian services have been targeted across the coun- does. port for women’s rights peace deal that included demo- appeared ambivalent about the What do Afghans think about these To test how citizens felt about cratic elections received about 7 Taliban’s political role. try in various ways by the militant groups or even by local points? Whether these provisions each dimension of a peace deal, percentage points more support But the survey’s insights on will be tolerable for government the survey asked each respon- among respondents than one that women’s rights, Islamic law and powerful individuals. On Tuesday morning, three female po- and Taliban negotiators is one dent to listen to a hypothetical creates an “Islamic Emirate” (68 democracy were also striking. lio vaccinators lost their precious lives in two separate at- question, but new survey evidence peace proposal that included percent vs. 61 percent). And a Each ethnic community support- from across Afghanistan indicates randomly assigned provisions. stipulation that Islamic law su- ed these in different measures — tacks carried out by a number of unidentified gunmen in Jala- that the public is strongly sup- We then asked respondents persedes secular law also boosts an important corrective to the portive of peace. Of the possible whether they would support support for a pact (68 percent trope that Islam, democracy and labad, the capital city of eastern Nangarhar province. The at- peace provisions we tested, in- such a peace arrangement. For vs. 62 percent). This suggests women’s rights are somehow increased women’s rights received example, half the respondents many Afghans want to elect their compatible in the developing tack on the polio vaccinator was conducted a day after the the most support — while, re- listened to a description of a leaders through popular elections world. Overall, the Afghan public United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund markably, on average, Afghans did peace deal where the Taliban (rather than through nondemo- appears to concur with many con- not care whether the Taliban had would have majority influence in cratic means or hereditary suc- tours of the U.S.-proposed peace (UNICEF) reported 56 polio type-1 and 310 polio new-type majority control over a post- the government, while for the cession), but still maintain a plan. A robust, even majority, role peace government. To learn about other half, the Taliban would strong role for Islamic law, espe- for the Taliban does not appear cases in Afghanistan in 2020, terming it as the highest number the attitudes of ordinary Afghan not. By comparing the number cially in family law settings. to be a dealbreaker. Of course, of cases during the last nine years in the country. Afghanistan citizens, we collaborated with the of respondents who said yes in Overall, these findings illustrate putting these preferences into Asia Foundation to administer each case, we can gauge the aver- that citizens are hungry for peace practice may be where the chal- followed by Pakistan is the only two countries in the world phone survey experiments regard- age impact of Taliban majority — almost irrespective of the po- lenge emerges. Creating democrat- ing specific peace-plan provi- control on support for peace. litical contours of the deal. All ic institutions in Afghanistan that where polio still remains as huge challenge, threatening the sions. This survey was conduct- Why the Taliban agreed to let 16 various configurations of these preserve a strong role for women lives of children under age five. It is very embarrassing that ed in September, before the de- more girls in Afghanistan go to controversial political issues re- and are compatible. the government failed to protect the humanitarian services. The Taliban, who are blamed for attacks on the human rights activists and professional figures in the country, also remained 'Music is my life': Ban on schoolgirls calm and didn’t express any remarks regarding the attack. However, the group denied allowing the implementation of singing inAfghanistan met with protest polio vaccination from home-to-home in the areas under their BY: STEFANIE GLINSKI ghan girls and deprives them of control, suggesting that the campaign should be conducted via the healing power of music, it Afghanistan’s Ministry of Educa- also violates the Afghan consti- mosques. Targeting employees who provide humanitarian sup- tion appears to be backtracking on tution, child protection laws and a decision to impose a nationwide the international convention of port for the people is a cruel and cowardly act. The individu- singing ban on schoolgirls. children’s rights,” he said. Wom- als or groups involved in such attacks obviously don’t seek In a letter to school boards last en across Afghanistan express week, which was leaked to the themselves through music, with the welfare of the Afghans. The perpetrators of the attacks on media, Kabul’s Education Depart- many using it as a coping mech- ment said girls aged 12 and above anism in times of violence and health employees and humanitarians’ organizations’ members would no longer be able to sing at war. Prominent singers, musi- public events, unless the events cians and dancers practise their should be held accountable and rewarded severe punishment. were attended solely by women. art nationwide. Many report re- The holy Islam religion strongly emphasizes on solidarity and The letter also stipulated that girls ceiving threats or being asked by couldn’t be trained by a male mu- their own families to stop. Ma- humanity. We should always support humanitarian services in sic teacher. The reason given for ram Abdallah, 18, a pianist who the decision was to allow students is about to graduate from Afghan- our country. Those who seek attacking the humanitarian ser- to focus on their studies. But the istan’s National Institute of announcement caused widespread Music, said she has had to fight Maram Abdallah, 18, a pianist, said she has had to fight vice members should understand that these service members outrage, with many accusing the her family’s conservative atti- her family’s conservative attitudes to be able to play music. are taking high risks just to help the poor people in other world government of sympathising with tudes to be able to play music. Photograph: Stefanie Glinski the Taliban, and of promoting gen- “I was raised in Egypt where my they are considered as white angels, who help people over- der discrimination. In protest, parents attended university and formed around the world, includ- children,” she said. The Afghan women from across the country, I started playing the piano when ing in the UK and Australia, and government had introduced some come their problems, and therefore stop attacking targeting including many prominent Afghan I was five years old, but when she dreams of one day becoming “incredibly misogynistic” poli- human services. leaders, recorded videos of them- we moved back to Afghanistan, a solo pianist. “Women singing cies, said Heather Barr, interim selves singing and posted these on my Dad wouldn’t let me contin- is part of our culture,” said Sha- co-director of the women’s rights social media using the hashtag ue,” she said. Abdallah’s father harzad Akbar, chairperson of Af- Human Rights Watch. “I don’t #IAmMySong. This week the told her pressure from society ghanistan’s Independent Human even think they are trying to meet ministry appeared to be rolling was the reason for his veto. Rights Commission, who sang the Taliban in the middle … the back on the decision, saying it is “Music was and is my life. It’s her protest on social media. negotiation process has maybe Subscription Rates investigating the ban, announced my way of expressing my feel- “Women have always sung and opened up space for people in by the director of education in the ings and dealing with hardship,” played instruments at weddings, government who oppose wom- Categories Fee capital, Kabul. A statement from she said. “When I was banned for example. I remember going to en’s rights to use the opportuni- the ministry said the letter did not from playing, I completely with- the village as a child, seeing wom- ty and push for policies against Afghanistan Times reflect its position and that it drew and fell into a deep depres- en dance.” “I identify myself women. There are natural allies Six Months $120 would assess the issue. Ahmad sion.” She said it took her a year through Sufism. It’s a way for of the Taliban’s worldview in the at your door step Sarmast, the founder of the Af- to convince her father to let her me to reach truth,” she said from government,” she said. During the For fast delivery service ghanistan National Institute of play. The first time she was al- a basement gym at a Kabul school Taliban rule of Afghanistan from One Year $240 Afghanistan Times seeks the Music, who started the #IAm- lowed to sit down at the piano where was practising music and 1996 to 2001, music was out- names, addresses of your MySong campaign, urged the min- again, she became overwhelmed dance with her students. “Sing- lawed nationwide and girls organizations and the number of istry to repeal the previous order with emotion. “I came back to ing and dancing is part of what weren’t allowed to attend school. copies you want. officially. “The decree not only life right then,” she said. makes Afghanistan. It’s impor- “If they could have it exactly that violates the musical rights of Af- Since then Abdallah has per- tant to share these traditions with way again, they would.” WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By James Dobbins

The Biden administration, faced with plodding Afghan peace talks and a fast approaching May 1 deadline for the complete withdrawal of American and NATO forces, has thrown a Hail Mary pass. Like most such passes, this one seems unlikely to be completed. Yet even while falling short, this exhibition of Ameri- can impatience might still serve to spur forward movement in the Afghan talks. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a letter to Afghan president Ashraf Ghani, proposed shifting the principal venue for the Afghan talks from Qatar to Turkey and prioritizing efforts there to form an interim government bringing in the Taliban as an erto resisted third party involve- ferences once inside such an ar- dernity and democracy in ways equal partner. American officials ment in their negotiations. Nor rangement. The case for moving unlikely to be accepted by the have circulated a suggested frame- has either side shown a desire to quickly into an interim govern- Taliban. This American effort to work for such a government and move quickly toward formation ment rests on the doubtful as- quick march the two Afghan par- have also asked the U.N. to con- of an interim government. The sumption that the warring Af- ties into a coalition government vene a meeting of Afghanistan's United States may also encoun- ghan parties will be better able seems unlikely to produce results principal neighbors, Pakistan, ter some hesitation from the re- to resolve their differences once fast enough to facilitate a with- cess,” Hayat said. Foreign troops ple,” a participant from eastern Iran, and China, along with Rus- By James S. Robbins led by the US have been sta- Afghanistan, requesting anonymi- gional players to get involved at inside such an arrangement. drawal of remaining American and sia, India, and the United States, this stage. These states include, Among the challenges facing NATO forces by May 1. The ini- tioned in Afghanistan since the ty, told Arab News. Another wom- in the hopes of adding regional KABUL: More than 1,300 rep- ousting of the Taliban from pow- an participant, who also requested after all, three of the four princi- such a government would be tiative could prove beneficial, nev- resentatives from all districts and weight to this effort. pal American adversaries as iden- bridging the gulf between mo- ertheless, if it impels the two Af- er in late 2001. Under a deal not to be named for fear of repris- These American proposals provinces of Afghanistan met in signed by the US and Taliban in als, said that Monday’s gathering tified in the Biden administra- dernity and fundamentalism, ghan sides to at least begin engag- Kabul on Monday for the largest reflect expert opinion that Amer- tion's own newly issued interim between governance based on ing on the principles upon which Qatar in February 2020, the US was short and did not include the ican and regional pressures will gathering of Afghan civil society military is due to completely real representatives of the people. national security strategy (PDF). popular sovereignty and on di- any such expanded government in recent years. They demanded be necessary to move these ne- These countries do share an in- vine inspiration, and most of all, should operate. leave Afghanistan by May. The “What can you achieve in one day? gotiations forward. They also re- that their voices be included in the US has already withdrawn sev- You spend at least two hours of it terest in ending the Afghan con- forging two warring armies into In addition to the points of- upcoming US-sponsored, Tur- flect the Biden administration's flict and seeing an orderly with- a unified national security es- fered in the U.S. paper, such con- eral thousands of its soldiers, but for prayers and lunch, which is realization that its upcoming de- key-hosted peace talks, aimed at some of its 2,500 troops still re- surely not sufficient to gather what drawal of American forces, but tablishment. To begin address- versations could usefully seek finding a future roadmap for the cision on whether to withdraw they may not be inclined to leap ing such differences the United more specificity regarding modi- main on Afghan soil. In an an- the people want to say. It is a by May 1, per the Trump ad- war-torn country. So far only Tal- nouncement on Thursday, US project, a way of earning for some to America's assistance, especial- States has proposed that the two fications to the current constitu- iban delegates and government ministration's promise, offers a ly on such short notice. sides agree on a set of princi- tional order, arrangements to mon- President Joe Biden said that he and some a trip to Kabul,” she said. unique point of leverage with the negotiators appointed by Afghan could extend the American mili- To break the stalemate in the Doha The case for moving quickly ples under which the interim itor and enforce a permanent cease President Ashraf Ghani have tak- two Afghan parties—leverage into an interim government rests government would function. fire, procedures to amalgamate the tary presence in the country for talks and end Washington’s 20 which will dissipate once the en part in the talks that began in “tactical reasons” after the dead- years of military engagement in the on the doubtful assumption that The draft set of principles cir- two opposing armies and provi- Doha, Qatar, in September last choice is announced. the warring Afghan parties will culated by the United States sions to reintegrate former fight- line but not beyond a year. country, Russia hosted a confer- Both Afghan sides have hith- year and are facing a deadlock. The Taliban retaliated the next ence on the Afghan peace process be better able to resolve their dif- comes down on the side of mo- ers back into civilian life. “This country does not belong day by saying that foreign troops earlier this month. However, simi- only to Ghani and the Taliban. Our would be driven out of Afghani- lar to the Doha talks, the Moscow views, those of the ordinary peo- stan by force if the US failed to meeting had no representation ple of Afghanistan, should also be meet the deadline. Mariam Dur- from war victims either, and only The day mirrored in such conferences,” rani, a participant from Kanda- one woman had participated in the Hajji Hayatullah Hayat, a partic- har, said that all members in her roundtable discussion. A larger con- ipant from the Ghazni province, group also demanded enforce- ference on Afghanistan’s peace is Myanmar's told Arab News. The one-day ment of a ceasefire. “We are the expected to be held in Turkey in event was organized by the Af- voice of the people who want an the coming weeks. In a statement Tatmadaw or ghanistan Mechanism for Inclu- immediate ceasefire, and both on Monday, the AMIP listed key sive Peace (AMIP) — an inde- sides (government and the Tali- demands for the Turkey talks, armed forces pendent body created by a con- ban) should accept this,” she told some of which were: An inclusive BY: BOBBY NADERI sortium of civil societies and fund- Arab News. While many wom- process and an “inclusive out- ed by the EU — and brought to- en participants who had traveled come”; for an independent civil died gether clerics, women, war vic- from major cities pushed for society mechanism to be integrat- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken continues to actively talk tims, widows, orphans and phys- women’s rights and greater rep- ed into the formal peace architec- By Maung Zarni ically challenged civilians. resentation, others demanded an ture; a comprehensive ceasefire up tensions with China as the “We have tried to bring together end to the war. Since the Tali- peace and for it to be the main agen- bogeyman de jour, and he claims diverse voices because the actual ban’s ousting in 2001, Afghan da of the talks; for the negotiations Amid the widely reported and there are "increasingly adversari- victims of the 40 years of war have women have regained the right to start immediately and include loudly condemned massacre of al aspects" of the U.S. relation- been these ordinary people, and to education, vote and work out- the perspective of victims, wom- over 100 unarmed protesters and ship with China that need to be their voices should be heard,” side their homes. Still, it is not en and ordinary Afghans; for Is- civilians in Myanmar on Satur- addressed. To further arouse sus- Moqadas Ahrar, spokesman for an easy place to be a woman, lamic values to be maintained as day, something historically un- picions, Blinken routinely and the AMIP, told Arab News on with forced marriages, domestic the basis for governance in Afghan- precedented took place. That is, wildly insists that the South Chi- Monday. The participants were violence and maternal mortality istan; for tribal prejudice as well as the Tatmadaw, or the country’s na Sea littorals states are weak split into groups and given ques- prevalent across the country, moral and institutional corruption national armed forces, died as a and subject to threats from Chi- tions by the AMIP for discussions particularly in rural areas. to be “eliminated”; for develop- national institution. Indeed, it na. No doubt this is part of a new during the event held at an ancient However, access to public life has ment of structures to compensate died in the hearts and minds of Great Game by Pentagon's "Pa- garden on the southern fringes of improved, especially in the cap- victims; for the future government the overwhelming majority of 54 cific Pivot" planners to manufac- Kabul. The questions sought their ital Kabul, where thousands of to provide security, employment, million Myanmar people as evi- denced in social media com- ture a new threat, justify deep thoughts on the enforcement of a women work, and more than a education and preserve the rights military incursions, and challenge ceasefire between the Taliban and ments, Burmese language news quarter of parliament is female. of women and other minorities; and maritime claims for a profit, and Kabul, the fate of US-led troops However, many women in urban for the complete withdrawal of reports, Facebook lives and in- in the country, the role of Islam in ternational news reports and in- more profit in the Chinese pe- are so important that even tion through regular presence op- areas fear a return of the Taliban foreign troops from Afghanistan in NATO has announced plans to erations and intelligence sharing, the constitution of Afghanistan, would deprive them of the liber- a responsible, conditioned and terviews with ordinary citizens ripheries. In much the same way, and challenges that could disrupt ties they have enjoyed in the past structured manner. “Many have and multiple ethnic armed resis- the Biden administration's for- return, with an agreement to many countries don't really see the the peace talks. “In our group, 20 years. “The real delegates of risked their lives in getting here tance organizations. Internation- eign policy establishment needles start a U.S.-EU dialogue on the need for foreign interference. Fur- people overwhelmingly support- women and people should be today, but the magnitude of the sit- ally, in a rare public statement, China on trade and tariff disputes issue, and a pledge to close ranks ther still, the Asia-Pacific strate- ed the idea for the total withdrawal given a chance to participate in uation, and this real opportunity the chiefs of defense services of in order to avoid making a deci- with "like-minded democracies." gies of the U.S. and NATO have of foreign troops from Afghani- future conferences on Afghani- to move toward peace, is such that 12 democratic countries, includ- sion on a reset as long as possi- What's truly exceptional is that developed largely independently stan and that both sides should stan because they know the ago- we all felt it was important to take ing Japan and the Republic of ble, and to avoid any political European Commission Vice- of each other over the years. They show flexibility for the peace pro- ny, pain and suffering of the peo- that risk,” it added. Korea, strongly condemned the fallout with their hypothetical President Josep Borrell, the are in no way seen as regional se- Myanmar military for its sense- Asia-Pacific allies. EU's top official for foreign af- curity partners, rather as the realm less mass murder of civilians to Backed by a diet of fear, there is fairs, has claimed that this is of the extreme, of the abnormal, whom all national militaries have profit in trying this "group-beat- about "reciprocity, economic and not in a welcoming embrace. sworn to protect. In a separate issues, resilience, human rights, Some regional countries might move, the chiefs of defense forcing" approach of "sovereignty W ho w ill lead Libyan arm y es of Malaysia, Indonesia and patrols." The U.S. already has security multilateralism and ar- have their own reservations, but Singapore echoed this 12-chiefs’ enormous resources invested in eas for constructive engagement this assertiveness toward Beijing joint statement, which reads: "As the region, including naval bases, with China, such as climate focuses largely on economic issues after political agreem ent? Chiefs of Defense, we condemn aircraft carrier groups, and "de- change." Serious oversight, but such as investment, technology, the use of lethal force against un- fense" treaties. It makes geopo- Blinken insists this is "to con- trade, infrastructure, and climate. By Nader Itayim trol the army. To pave the way since 2014 with Abdul-Razzaq Al- armed people by the Myanmar litical sense to talk up tensions, front the challenges that China They see that the published guide- for consultations on the matter, Nazuri as the chief of staff of his Armed Forces and associated se- secure political cooperation, and presents to the rules-based or- lines and strategies by the Penta- Libya’s Prime Minister Abdul militia. Herein lies the difficulty of curity services. A professional boost lucrative arms trade der that we both subscribe to." gon regime read as for-profit rath- The formation of a new Presiden- Hamid Dbeibeh has temporarily integrating the militias loyal to military follows international through major pacts. Think of all In much the same way, NATO er than regional security concerns. cy Council and national unity headed the ministry until the Haftar, known for their war crimes, standards for conduct and is re- this as a regional matrix that rests Secretary General Jens Stolten- They do not believe that the Pen- government in Libya represented Presidency Council settles on a into the unified Libyan army com- sponsible for protecting – not on imperial interventions that berg has said that he has plans tagon reflects their interests. If an important step towards uni- candidate. Dbeibeh promised to pared to the more disciplined bri- harming – the people it serves. "to build partnerships with re- Washington wants a simple met- fying the country and its institu- have formed around the Penta- support the 5+5 joint military gades in the western region who We urge the Myanmar Armed gon and the military-industrial gional countries as a bulwark ric, better would be a foreign pol- tions. This unity, however, will committee, which comprises of are used to answering to a civilian Forces to cease violence and work not be completed until the mili- complex for decades. against China." icy directed at preserving dialogue five representatives from the authority. to restore respect and credibility By now, it should be clear that with Beijing, not threat inflation. tary establishment alongside all its with the people of Myanmar that Imperialism and greed West and five representatives Haftar biggest obstacle there's a pattern here for those It's a lie that the strategic environ- brigades is united under one com- from the east to ensure the con- As it stands, Libya’s army in the it has lost through its actions." Blinken talks of "competitive ar- mand. On Feb. 5, Libyan dele- tinuation of a cease-fire signed west has been led by al-Haddad It is beyond absurd to read eas as well as adversarial ones," who care to notice. Stoltenberg's ment is degrading because of Chi- gates elected Mohammad Menfi between the government and while Haftar’s militias maintain the news reports of its head Min and he is not stopping there. He escalatory rhetoric is also for a na. It's also a lie that there is a from the east to head a three- forces of renegade general Khali- control of the east. Haftar has frus- Aung Hlaing telling the annual is not taking questions either. profit, and more profit in the growing need for a shared and unit- member Presidency Council com- fa Haftar on Oct. 23 in Geneva. trated efforts by al-Haddad to build parade on the Armed Forces Day This shouldn't leave us totally in Chinese peripheries. Expect ed front. The U.S. can ensure a prised of Mossa Al-Koni and One of the prime minister’s tasks a unified and disciplined army and (March 27) how his troops were the dark about his intentions in NATO to remain a key part of more persistent military presence Abdullah Al-Lafi representing the is to unify the army soonest pos- sought to use force to control the protecting the people, while con- the strategic waterway through the U.S. pivot in order to also so as not to too clearly reveal the west and south regions respective- sible. entire country since 2014. How- currently the men in green uni- which at least $3.4 trillion in trade force countries into its sphere self-serving nature of its pivot, but ly. The three represent the su- Change in west easier than east ever, Haftar’s militia spokesman form were killing with blanket passes every year. His rhetoric of influence and global arms it still has a harder time seizing preme commander of the army Since the formation of the Tri- Ahmed Al-Mesmari’s recent rec- impunity not just defiant anti- of upping the ante and going all- market. the story line. whose decisions must be taken poli-based Government of Na- ognition of the Presidency Coun- coup protesters but also children in on military incursions is part Self-appropriated region These are challenging times, cer- unanimously as stipulated in the tional Accord (GNA) in 2016 cil as the supreme commander of playing in parks and playgrounds of the usual pivot for imperial- The U.S. and NATO might be tainly not a time for advocates of political agreement. This is the headed by Fayez Al-Sarraj, the the army reflects important in 44 different cities and towns first time since 2014 that the coun- ism and greed. The Pentagon assessing links between Trans- interference and their foreign pol- internationally recognized gov- progress towards the unification across the country. On March 27, wouldn't explain, but the U.S. Atlantic, Euro-Atlantic, and icy professionals and Pentagon try's three regions -- Tripoli, ernment has had two defense of the army. Haftar has been forced 1945, the army’s founding com- Cyrenaica, and Fezzan -- have mander Maj. Gen. Aung San de- wants to be a South China Sea Asia-Pacific security as their accountants to force regional coun- ministers and four chiefs of staff, to make a political retreat follow- self-appropriated region, but the tries become allied with and sub- agreed on a commander in chief. the latest being Muhammad al- ing threats of sanctions by the in- livered a very brief coded anti- power. It makes no economic Race for key defense positions Haddad who has been the chief ternational community and the Fascist speech to a small band of sense to increase deployments of economic, military and diplo- ordinate to their wishful military Political rivals in the east and of staff since 2020. In contrast, United Nations if he continues to Burma Defence Army (BDA) in naval and air assets, stage joint matic resources they could de- alliances. west have been competing over the situation in eastern Libya has sabotage the political agreement, the parade ground at the foot of naval exercises, sell weapons vote to their pointless incursions It's a superb suggestion for the the defense ministry, a key posi- been different with warlord as well as his failure in the offen- Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon’s worth hundreds of billions of are limited. If they are to play enthusiastic interventionists to tion for anyone seeking to con- Haftar commanding the army sive on Tripoli. most famous landmark. dollars, fuel a region-wide arms an increasing role in Asia-Pacif- listen to the critics and interna- race, prolong the trade war, and ic security, they must think in a tional law, and to leave the region's then pack up and leave the more multilateral way, without problems to its own peoples. world's most populous and eco- interfering in regional affairs and They could best seek security by Disclaimer: nomically dynamic region. This certainly without arousing Chi- simply exiting any geopolitical The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) is not what the "Pacific Pivot" is nese suspicions. struggle with China, including the all about. It's also about "stay and With this in mind, no matter cheap grace of port visits and ex- and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Afghanistan Times. entertain." The Asia-Pacific re- how hard the professional in- ercises. gion and its strategic resources terventionists deepen coopera- (CGTN) WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

North Korea I s Not A Serious Negotiator And Biden W ill Act Accordingly Remnants of the red shirt movement organized mobile speaker The six summits between former platforms on the back of trucks, US president Donald Trump, so speeches could be given to the South Korean President Moon crowds. Street stalls were also Jae-in and North Korean leader attracted to the events, doing Kim Jong-un — in various combi- brisk trade in food and souvenirs. nations — failed to generate any Demonstrations remained peace- lasting change on the Korean Pen- ful until ultra-loyalists, some of insula. Foreign policy hawks and who were suspected of being doves will draw different lessons army personnel, dressed in yel- from these events, but the case that low shirts, stood up to students Kim will not trade away North on the streets. The Thai Border Korea’s nuclear weapons under Police who were charged to bar- any circumstance is likely to be ricade major roads leading to the more persuasive now, especially Royal Palace erected razor wire to centrists in the United States. and placed walls of shipping con- In South Korea, the dovish left tainers across roads to prevent and the coalition behind Moon will students reaching their intended come away undaunted. They will destinations. Chemically laced likely make two claims against an Since the banning of Thanathorn ed 30,000 plus attendance, advo- water cannons were used when interpretation of failure. First, they Juangroongruangkit from politics, cating three core demands; the res- students threatened barricades can claim, with some justification, and the dissolution of his Future ignation of prime minister Prayuth and removed containers and that Trump was never serious Forward Party in February 2020, Chan-ocha, and his government, parked buses blocking the road. about the process, so his failure which had widespread youth the amendment of the 2017 mili- This led to a number of minor with Kim does not invalidate the support, students lost a political tary backed constitution, to make ments. Policymakers in Wash- made no serious proposals to the nuclear facilities apparently dis- casualties within student ranks argument that countries should ington and many outside Moon’s Trump administration on the is- cussed. Kim never seemed to grasp platform that was publicly airing it more democratic, and more con- and a few border police on the seek inter-Korean peace through their grievances. The shutting troversially, reform of the monar- government will draw a much sue of nuclear warheads and mis- how desperately Trump craved other side of the barricades. big-bang, conditions-free summit- more direct lesson, consistent siles. His offer at the 2019 Ha- media spectacle or that Trump down of Future Forward denied chy, so that the institution is more Authorities have changed their ry. The theory behind an apex students any political voice, accountable. The protests reach- with the long history of North noi summit of sanctions relief in would have settled for far less than attitude towards the student pro- summit assumes a serious, adept Korean bargaining behaviour. The exchange for the dismantlement his predecessors. Even perfunc- which led to Thammasat Univer- ing a crescendo in December last testers since protests have re- US counterpart in the negotiations sity students organizing ‘leader- year, were suddenly put off, due lesson is that Pyongyang is not of the Yongbyon nuclear com- tory displays of progress, such started, with much lower num- — Trump was clearly not that. genuinely interested in negotiat- plex was so obviously imbal- as several North Korean trans- less’ demonstrations and protests to a spike in Covid cases originat- bers this year. As few as 200- In a second related claim, in the Bangkok city centre, last ing from an outbreak at a wet mar- ing on core strategic issues like anced against the United States porter erector-launchers rolling 300 students have been turning doves will pin the failure more nuclear weapons. that Trump, anxious for a deal, across the demilitarised zone into year. Demonstrations of this size ket in Samut Sakhon, near up to rallies, until last weekend, broadly on the United States, ar- have not been seen in Bangkok Bangkok. The first series of pro- North Korea had a rare bar- rejected it. What, when or how the hands of South Korean and there were calls by students to guing that its stubborn attachment gaining opportunity, unique in much of Yongbyon would be US forces, would have represent- since ex-politician Suthep Thaug- tests last year were, on the whole, protest the detention of at least to sanctions and the constraints suban organized the shutdown peaceful expressions over stu- the 75-year history of Korean turned over was never defined, ed a fraction of North Korea’s ar- 19 students on Lese Majeste of the US alliance on Seoul under- division, and passed it up. Kim nor were North Korea’s other senal but a huge. Bangkok rallies, which led to the dents’ core grievances, through the charges, who have been denied cut Moon’s peace agenda. A uni- downfall of the Yingluck Shina- symbolic handing of letters to au- bail. Police on 6th March used lateral South Korean outreach to watra government, and installa- thorities demanding Prayuth’s res- rubber bullets against the stu- the North would have jeopardised tion of former army leader Pr- ignation, theatre, music, dance, and dents, in what appears to be a South Korea’s relations with the ayuth Chan-ocha as prime minis- artistic festivities. Many protests major change in the rules of en- United States. Moon had no room ter in a military led coup in 2014. had a carnival like atmosphere, gagement, which were much more to move independently to find Student rallies reached an estimat- where curious onlookers joined in. restrained against protesters. other possible deals or arrange- Bulgarian ‘Assault’ On North Macedonia The U.S. House of Representa- tives (in February and again in In Bulgaria regular parliamenta- spond to the Covid-19 pandemic. April, 2019) and the Senate (in ry elections are due to take place This only further exposed the char- December 2018 and March on 4 April 2021. At the elec- acter of the regime, which is not 2019) have each voted twice with tions 240 representatives/depu- ready and has no solution for re- strong bipartisan majorities to ties in the Bulgarian National sponse to sophisticated threats end the war on Yemen (vetoed Assembly will be elected accord- and risks, such as the Covid-19 by then-President Trump in ing to the proportional system pandemic. In addition to the tra- April 2019).The Democratic with closed lists. In each of a to- ditional rivals of the GERB and Party Platform of 2020 commits tal of 31 election units, between the BSP, as well as the Movement to ending the war on Yemen. four and 16 representatives/ dep- for Rights and Freedoms (DPS), But Congress has yet to act uties depending on the size of the new actors have also emerged on since the veto threat disappeared election unit will be elected. The the political scene. along with Trump. And every Meeting held election threshold is 4%. Previ- One of the new actors is the Dem- day that the war goes unended ous elections in Bulgaria saw nu- ocratic Bulgaria (DB) headed by means more horrific death and merous cases of tampering with Hristo Ivanov, who conducted the suffering — from violence, star- al legislative powers, he would “relevant” weapons shipments, betweenAzerbaijani, electoral rolls, election fraud, spectacular operation on the Black vation, and disease. massive purchase of votes, un- Sea coastline when together with be delighted for Congress to leg- but attacks (however one charac- registered voter ballots, extortion two of his colleagues he reached I’m reminded — to take one islate an end to the war. Since terizes them) have continued (and Kazakh FMs of votes from employees in (pub- in a motor boat the luxurious res- example from among many sim- Biden is not ending U.S. partici- according to numerous experts lic) companies and public admin- idence of Ahmed Dogan (DPS), ilar ones — of how the Demo- pation in the war, Congress is could not have without U.S. as- istration, modifications of voting one of the most influential per- cratic state legislature in Califor- obliged to act. And it’s not as if sistance), and so have weapons Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry’s Tleuberdi, in turn, noted the high nia passes single-payer health- Chief Jeyhun Bayramov met with level of relations between the heads protocols, declaring the ballots sons in Bulgaria. The aim of his we’re talking about actual work shipments. The Biden adminis- invalid, etc. However, the most operation was to draw attention care whenever there’s a Repub- for the Congress. They just have tration has paused two bomb sales his Kazakh counterpart Mukhtar of the two countries, which played lican governor, thereby pleasing Tleuberdi within the 9th ministe- an important role in the develop- renowned form of election fraud to the illegally fenced public prop- to hold a vote and say “aye.” to Saudi Arabia but not suspend- “patented” in Bulgaria is the so- erty and the security guards from people without risking actually That’s it. They’re not going to ed or ended all U.S. weapons sales rial conference ‘Heart of Asia - ment of the bilateral relations. The called “Bulgarian train.” The po- the civil service, who had been il- doing anything. The same pur- strain any muscles or get any blis- and shipments to Saudi Arabia Istanbul Process’, held in Tajiki- ministers exchanged views on the litical scene is marked by a con- legally engaged at the residence. pose is generally served by par- ters. On February 4, President and the UAE, not removed U.S. stan’s capital Dushanbe, on implementation of a number of stant conflict between Prime This operation triggered massive ty platforms. People put in a lot Biden announced in vague terms logistical and maintenance sup- March 29, 2021, within his visit events to mark the 30th anniver- Minister Boyko Borissov and protests in Bulgaria against cor- of serious well-intentioned work, the ending of U.S. participation port for the Saudi military, not to the country, Trend reports re- sary of the establishment of dip- Bulgarian President Rumen ruption, oligarchs and the govern- organizing, lobbying, and pro- in this war. On February 24, a demanded an end to the blockade, ferring to the press service of the lomatic relations between the two Radev and the confrontation of ment. A popular musician Slavi testing to get good policies into letter from 41 Congress Mem- and not sought to establish a ministry. During the meeting, countries next year. During the the two leading political parties. Trifonov is running at the elections party platforms, which are for bers asked the President to ex- cease-fire and peace settlement. Bayramov emphasized the high meeting, Bayramov informed his Specifically, the ruling conserva- for the first time with his party the most part promptly ignored. plain what he meant in detail. The We’re now six years into this war, level of bilateral relations between counterpart about the new situa- tive GERB party (Citizens for “There is such a people” (ITN). At least it creates the illusion of letter also asked the President not counting the “successful” Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, add- tion in the region after the 44-day European Development of Bul- Then, there is also Maya Manolo- influencing government. whether he would support Con- drone war that helped start it. ing that there are great opportu- war (from late Sept. through early garia) and the opposition BSP va and her political movement Congress has no excuse for gress ending the war. The letter Enough is enough. Deference to a nities for expanding the coopera- Nov.2020, ending with liberation (Bulgarian Socialist Party) par- Stand Up.BG (ISMV). The up- the past two months and more requested a response before president is not more important tion. He also stressed the impor- of Azerbaijani territories from Ar- ty, which had supported Presi- coming elections will also be the of inaction. Were President Biden March 25th. There seems to have than human lives. And what we’re tance of holding a meeting of the menian occupation) and the work dent Radev at the presidential first elections for the “Republi- ending U.S. participation in the been none, certainly none made dealing with here is not deference, Joint Intergovernmental Commis- done by Azerbaijan to implement elections. Bulgaria is still not a cans for Bulgaria” party (RzB) war, and were he and various public. Biden said on February 4 but subservience. This president sion in terms of further develop- the trilateral statements (made on Schengen or Euro zone member. headed by Tsvetan Tsvetanov, Congress Members serious in that he was ending U.S. partici- is not ending a war or even ex- ment of relations. Nov.10 of last year. Bulgaria was not ready to re- former minister of internal affairs. their rhetoric about Congression- pation in “offensive” attacks and plaining why not. Prime Minister JoeBiden’sForeignPolicy Why South Korea is of Hungary to visit Developing an Aircraft DreamsWill CrashIntoReality Carrier Armed with F-35s Uzbekistan South Korea announced in 2018, North Korea,” the authors write. The ”Lippmann Gap” is a phrase these plans, could result in some ica’s foreign defense commit- as part of its Navy Vision 2045 “In the event of war, North Ko- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor views on international and region- coined by scholars to describe the increases. Moreover, a flat defense ments overall. After all, in at least plan, that it was developing a light rea would likely launch a barrage Orban will make official visit to al cooperation issues. result of a country’s aims in for- budget request is by no means nec- one major region of concern, aircraft carrier, in order to carry of attacks against ROK airbases, Uzbekistan from March 29-31. The first meeting of Uzbekistan- eign policy exceeding the means essarily bad news for any Ameri- China, America’s main potential available to pursue them. It was can, except for whichever defense enemy, keeps strengthening its a fleet of F-35B short take-off employing special operations The prospects of further expan- Hungary Business Council will be vertical landing (STOVL) air- forces, chemical weapons, and sion of bilateral cooperation in held during this visit. named after the twentieth-centu- contractors lose expected sales to military and has been acting more ry journalist, philosopher, and the Pentagon. For example, the De- aggressively in recent years. Due craft. According to an analysis ballistic missiles. A carrier wing political, commercial, economic, The Hungarian Prime Minsiter earlier this week by The Diplo- based at sea would be less sus- investment, financial, technical, will visit scientific and historical frequent adviser to leading poli- fense Department has long been to China’s expansionist aims, ticians Walter Lippmann, who notorious for wasteful spending. Taiwan has become the manu- mat, there has been much sec- ceptible to this initial strike and cultural and humanitarian spheres sites. called attention to its frequency And adopting different priorities, facturer of the world’s most ad- ond-guessing of South Korea’s would therefore be ready to re- will be considered during the up- The agreements aimed to deepen and dangers in his classic 1943 or more efficient weapons and oth- vanced semiconductors and the aircraft carrier plans, mostly be- spond more swiftly and effective- coming top-level talks, the For- bilateral relations in economic, en- book, U.S. Foreign Policy: Shield er equipment could well provide microelectronic brains of ever cause the biggest threat to the ly.” In addition, Yu and French eign Ministry of Uzbekistan said. ergy, education, cultural, employ- of the Republic. Troublingly for America and at least most of its more civilian and defense-relat- country is its neighbor, North said, the carrier would be of use The sides will also exchange ment spheres will be signed. Americans, and for other coun- allies with just as much “bang for ed products. Biden’s repeated Korea, rather than an enemy like- in a war against North Korea for tries that have long relied on the the buck” as previously, with globalist assertions that “Amer- ly to confronted at sea. Also, another reason: It would give United States for protection, ev- changing circumstances producing ica is back,” in particular, is some have been arguing that such South Korea other approaches to idence has emerged that the gap a shift in deployments from mis- aimed at reassuring U.S. allies a carrier would be too vulnera- North Korea through “less well- Kremlin comments on could soon return in a big way sions judged to have lost some of around the world that have be- ble. “For there is a country that defended avenues of approach.” under the Biden administra- their importance to missions seen come unnerved about U.S. reli- daily faces a risk of cataclysmic The authors of the Diplomat tion—whose principals, includ- to have become more significant. ability after four years of being war: invasion by an army of more piece also argue that there are oth- nature of relations with ing those of the president, are In fact, major cuts are beneficial harangued by Trump attacks on than 1 million, mass artillery er reasons the carrier could be use- typically described as diplomat- precisely because the nation their own skimpy defense bombardment of its capital and ful to the South Koreans-because Armenia andAzerbaijan ic “adults in the room” making spends way too much time seek- spending, and threats to leave even nuclear attack,” the Austra- it will allow South Korea to bet- the welcome return to power af- ing objectives—like shoring up the them in the lurch unless their al- lian Strategic Policy Institute ter defend its maritime interests ter the dangerous tumult of the defense of Western Europe— leged free-riding ends? In some (ASPI)’s The Strategist wrote in around the world. “Yes, North Russia has good relations with with Armenia as well. We have Trump years. The evidence con- which haven’t been necessary in noteworthy ways, Trump actu- early March. “And its latest pro- Korea remains the most immedi- both Armenia and Azerbaijan, numerous integration processes sists of reporting that the Biden decades, and indeed in theory cre- ally bolstered America’s alliance- posed acquisition? An aircraft ate threat to South Korean secu- President Vladimir Putin’s which give significant benefit to administration later this spring ate greater dangers than they can related foreign military deploy- carrier—a meaningless hole in rity,” Yu and French write. “But spokesperson Dmitry Peskov Armenia, both politically and eco- will submit a defense budget re- address. But there’s no reason to ments. Biden, meanwhile, has the water into which the Repub- South Korea has capable land said in an interview to the Argu- nomically,” Peskov said. quest that seeks no new funding think that such considerations decided, at least for now, to let lic of Korea Navy hopes the forces and a powerful ally in the menti I Fakti newspaper. The Kremlin spokesperson over last year’s levels. Of course, would be driving forces behind a Europe’s members of NATO— country will pour about US$5 United States, which serve to de- “We have excellent relations of stressed that everyone ought to this reporting may turn out to be reported Biden defense spending the North Atlantic Treaty Alli- billion.” Writing in The Diplo- ter this threat. North Korea’s mil- trust with Azerbaijan based on remember President Putin’s per- inaccurate. Or “the Bidenites” freeze or near-freeze. And this is ance—Japan, and South Korea mat, Jihoon Yu and Erik French itary, while quantitatively formi- mutual respect. sonal role in achieving the armi- could still change their plans even where the Lippmann Gap enters off the burden-sharing hook. In- argue that these criticisms are dable, is antiquated, poorly These relations can have many stice which ended the second if it is currently accurate. In ad- the picture because there’s every deed, a flat or even reduced Biden misplaced. “This criticism fails trained, and faces serious deficien- aspects of mutual interest. We Nagorno Karabakh war in 2020. dition, negotiations with Con- reason to believe that President defense budget request might to grasp the utility of a ROKN cies in its sustainment capabili- have historically good relations (BBC) gress, which needs to approve Joe Biden intends to expand Amer- come about in part. carrier in the event of a clash with ties.” WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

India’s 2021 economic output likely to remain below 2019 level: UN report

India's economic output in 2021 is expected to remain below the 2019 level despite roll-out of the the National Assembly in Septem- vaccine to deal with the menace of the coronavirus pandemic, said a report by the United Nations ber, the total government expen- Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) released on Tuesday. ditures for 2022 were forecast to grow 6 percent on-year. India’s economic output in 2021 success in reducing infection ported by strong recovery in in- As the government spending is expected to remain below the rates supported an impressive dustrial production, infrastructure increased to 572.9 trillion won for 2019 level despite roll-out of the economic turnaround in the third and housing investment, merchan- this year with a 15 trillion-won vaccine to deal with the menace quarter. “However, the pace of dise exports, and a modest recov- extra budget approved last week, of the coronavirus pandemic, said recovery moderated in the fourth ery in private consumption, its 6.5 next year’s budget is likely to ex- a report by the United Nations quarter with estimated year-on- per cent year-on-year growth rate ceed the 600 trillion-won thresh- Economic and Social Commission year growth still close to zero. in the fourth quarter exceeded pre- old. Public spending has been in- for Asia and the Pacific (UNES- “Despite a robust reduction in pandemic growth levels. The re- creasing in a fast clip, due partly CAP) released on Tuesday. India, new COVID-19 cases and the port forecasts that on an average, to aid packages to counter the eco- according to the ‘Economic and start of vaccine roll-out, India’s developing Asia-Pacific economies nomic fallout of the COVID-19 Social Survey of Asia and the Pa- 2021 economic output is expect- are expected to grow 5.9 per cent pandemic, since the figure sur- cific 2021: Towards post-COV- ed to remain below the 2019 lev- in 2021 and 5 per cent in 2022, passed 400 trillion in 2017. ID-19 resilient economies’, is es- el,” it added. Meanwhile, main- after having experienced an esti- To brush off concerns over the timated to record an economic taining low borrowing costs mated contraction of 1 per cent in country’s fiscal soundness due to growth of 7 per cent in 2021-22, while keeping non-performing 2020. Despite a reasonably strong mounting national debt, the min- over a contraction of 7.7 per cent loans in check would be a chal- rebound expected in 2021, a ‘K- istry said it would strengthen ef- witnessed in the previous fiscal lenge, it added. shaped recovery’ is likely, with fort to restructure fiscal expendi- on account of the pandemic’s im- In its second advance esti- poorer countries and more vulner- tures. It will take a zero-based pact on normal business activity. mates of national accounts, the able groups marginalised in the budgeting approach to cut down Observing that India entered the National Statistical Office (NSO) post-pandemic recovery and tran- 10 percent of nonessential spend- pandemic with subdued GDP has projected an 8 per cent con- sition period,” it said. For a more ing by reviewing some 12 trillion growth and investment, the report traction in 2020-21, showing the robust and inclusive recovery, the won worth of one-off programs, said, “Following one of the most pandemic impact. The report fu- report calls for a more synchro- such as employment retention stringent lockdowns in the world, ther said China’s swift and ef- nised COVID-19 vaccination pro- schemes and promotion cam- the economic disruptions that the fective response to COVID-19 gramme across countries and high- paigns to encourage consumption. country experienced mounted in enabled it to become the only lights opportunities to leverage re- The national debt is expected to the second quarter of 2020.” major economy worldwide to gional cooperation. At the same surge nearly 20 percent from It added that a subsequent achieve a positive annual eco- time, it recommends that fiscal and The government will keep its ex- omy and Finance to revive the fiscal spending, we need to bring 805.2 trillion won, the figure be- change in lockdown policies and nomic growth rate in 2020. Sup- monetary support. pansionary fiscal policy stance sluggish economy. It focuses on the economy clearly back to a fore the first extra budget was cre- next year to support the recov- fiscal inputs on boosting em- normal track and continue to inated, to 965.9 trillion won after ery of the coronavirus-hit econo- ployment and domestic con- vest in key areas to promote in- the fifth round of supplementary my, the government said, hinting sumption and boosting invest- novation and inclusive growth,” budget was factored in. Its debt- Nigeria to Kazakh Government at another mega budget exceeding ment in innovative technologies. Ahn Do-geol, a senior ministry to-gross domestic product ratio 600 trillion won ($529.2 billion). Such scheme is necessary to nor- official in charge of budget af- will likely reach 48.2 percent this fully utilize approves plan for The Cabinet approved Tues- malize the South Korean econo- fairs, said at a press briefing. In year, up from 43.9 percent the pre- day the 2022 budget guidelines, my, which shrank 1 percent in the 2020-24 fiscal management vious year. gas resources N-Kazakhstan rgn's social drafted by the Ministry of Econ- 2020 from a year earlier. “With plan the ministry submitted to (BBC) to lift and economic development economy WorldBank:Servicessector Spain seeks President Muhammadu Buhari to increase Monday in Abuja launched “The Decade of Gas in Nigeria” with a diplomatic pledge that his administration reformcrucialfor Malaysia would fully utilize the enormous and economic gas resources in the country to It is crucial for Malaysia to re- uplift the economy and drive inform its services sector in order dustrialization. Setting the tone to achieve advanced services and ties in Africa for the development of the indus- innovations for its future eco- try in the next 10 years, Presi- nomic growth post Covid-19, said dent Buhari said given the coun- Dr Aaditya Mattoo, chief econo- try’s potential of about 600 tril- mist of the East Asia and Pacific lion cubic feet of gas, the com- Region of the World Bank. He is modity has the enormous poten- of the view that some restrictions tial to diversify Nigeria’s econo- imposed by the authorities, par- my. ”The rising global demand ticularly access to the Malaysian for cleaner energy sources has of- market, need to be reviewed to fered Nigeria an opportunity to attract more trade and investment exploit gas resources for the good in the services sector going for- of the country. We intend to seize Spanish Prime Minister Pedro ward. “Malaysia (has) reaped the Sánchez wants to boost his coun- this opportunity,” the President benefits of openness to trade and try’s influence in Africa – but first said at the virtual Nigeria Interna- investment in goods, but why tivity growth was slower than ity taxes were unusually low by he must overcome the reluctance tional Petroleum Summit (NIPS) The Kazakh Government has the PM, preliminary estimates does it persists with restrictions that of its peers with a very large the global standard. Countries of Spanish business leaders and 2021 Pre-Summit Conference and approved the comprehensive show that if implemented the plan in services? “There are three pil- plan for social and economic de- would help increase the amount of proportion of talented Malay- could not act in silo as it is very financiers to invest in the conti- official launch of the Decade of lars in reform - opening up the ne Gas. The President told partici- velopment of North Kazakhstan manufacturing and agricultural pro- sians working outside the coun- hard in today’s world to raise nt. At an event in Madrid on market by eliminating restrictions try. Therefore, creating and re- taxes as foreign investors are Monday, Sánchez launched a new pants at the Pre-Summit that region for 2021-25, Kazinform duction by 1.5fold, ensure the gross on entry and reducing discretion while his administration has pri- correspondent reports. The com- regional production to rise to 5.2%. taining skilled human capital in mobile and could run away to Africa Strategy, aiming to in licensing; move from conven- the country is crucial, he added. other jurisdictions, he said. He strengthen economic links with a oritized gas development and re- prehensive plan for social and The plan allows for new growth tional (to a more modern and ad- On fiscal constrains, Mattoo suggested that a greater regional raft of African nations by 2023, corded remarkable progress, it is economic development of North points and the greater infrastruc- vance) regulations; and improv- said many countries in this re- tax cooperation needs to be ful- and said Africa will be a diplomat- well known that Nigeria is a gas Kazakhstan region has to be up- ture. In general, the region will re- ing access to services,” he said at gion have an inner sense to adopt ly explored to help increase ic priority for his government. nation with a little oil, but the dated by the Government and ceive a new impetus for social and the Economic Action Council country has focused on oil over North Kazakhstan region’s ad- economic development, with 26 a low tax approach and Malay- Malaysia's revenue collection, The strategy’s economic ele- Executive Talk Series here today. sia’s direct income and commod- which has been showing. ments include a plan by the gov- the years. ”That is the paradox ministration in keeping with the thousand highly qualitative jobs in The virtual talk titled Future that this Administration decided instruction given by the Head of place. The plan is also said to im- ernment to boost financing Economic and Business Land- schemes to support Spanish com- to confront when we declared the State. KZT2tln has been provid- prove the standards of life of the scape was moderated by Minis- panies seeking to expand in Africa year 2020 as “The Year of Gas” ed to fund the plan, much of people, thus, stabilizing the migra- ter in the Prime Minister’s De- and also a commitment by Madrid in Nigeria. ”It was a bold state- which is private investments. tion processes within the region as partment (Economy) Datuk Seri ment to demonstrate the resolve The Kazakh Government Head well as creating additional condi- Vietnam ese to call for debt relief for African Mustapa Mohamed. Mattoo countries at G20 meetings. On ed- of this Administration that gas de- noted that private investments tions for the youth to not leave the said other long-term structural ucation, the strategy commits to velopment and utilization should would allow implementing new region and attract specialists, which challenges that need to be ad- projects, creating quality work- will also be facilitated by active attracting more African students be a national priority to stimulate dressed by Malaysia were its in- econom y to Spanish universities under an economic growth, further improve places, and establishing a new development of the fields of edu- novation deficit and fiscal limita- EU mobility program called Eras- Nigeria’s energy mix. economic structure. According to cation and health. tion. He said Malaysia’s produc- mus+, and among the strategy’s expands 4 .4 8 social goals is one to promote the participation of African women in decision-making processes. Pakistan,ADBagreetoexpandeconomicportfolio per cent in Q1 Spain will also send a warship to the Gulf of Guinea to fight pi- The Vietnamese economy ex- agreements. The first quarter racy and increase security in the Pakistan and Asian Development Department of Asian Develop- ship, operationalisation of the ly support to fight the Covid-19 panded at 4.48 per cent in the saw the strong recovery of im- region, which will patrol the Bank (ADB) Monday agreed to ment Bank. Secretary Economic EXIM Bank, and domestic re- pandemic. The minister high- first quarter of 2021, a positive ports and exports with total coasts as part of bilateral actions expand economic portfolio to in- Affairs Noor Ahmed and Coun- source mobilisation. Makhdum lighted that despite challenges result in the context of the COV- trade revenue estimated at or through EU programs. The Af- crease cooperation in the differ- try Director ADB Xiaohong Khusro Bakhtyar appreciated posed by Covid-19 and world- ID-19 pandemic, according to the US$152.65 billion, a rise of 24.1 rica Strategy follows Spain’s Af- ent areas This was agreed upon Yang also joined the meeting. ADB’s role as a trusted develop- wide contraction, the key eco- General Statistics Office. per cent against the same peri- rica Plan of 2019, which together when Federal Minister for Eco- Both sides discussed and agreed ment partner of Pakistan, especial- nomic indicators are showing en- The economy grew only 3.8 od last year. The country en- show Spain’s “ambition and wish nomic Affairs Makhdum Khusro to expand cooperation in the ar- ly in terms of the quality of the couraging results owing to the per cent in the first quarter of joyed a trade surplus of $2.03 to turn this decade into Spain’s Bakhtyar held a virtual meeting eas of trade and competitiveness, portfolio and support, keeping in government’s strong commitment last year and though the pandemic billion in the first quarter. GSO decade in Africa,” Sánchez said. with Yevgeniy Zhukov, Director social protection (Ehsaas Pro- view the emerging needs of the for the structural reforms. continued to impact the econo- statistics showed that the con- “We want to be a strategic partner General, Central and West Asia gramme), public private partner- country that includes ADB’s time- (Tribune) my this year, the increased sumer price index (CPI) in in the continent.” Historically, growth was a positive sign. The March fell by 0.27 per cent Spain had fewer colonies in Africa agro-forestry-fishery sector grew against the previous month. On than the likes of nearby France, Argentina's at 3.16 per cent, the industrial average, the CPI rose by 0.29 but Spain and the North African Syria's economy 'at it s w orst since and construction sector 6.3 per per cent in the first quarter. “In state of Morocco face each other cent and the services sector at the context of the COVID-19 across the straits of Gibraltar. t he conflict began,' w arn aid agencies IMF debt 3.34 per cent, contributing 8.34 with complex developments in Sánchez described Spain as “Eu- per cent, 55.96 per cent and 35.7 the world, the socio-economic rope’s southern gateway” to Afri- Aline Yacoubian, a policy officer 'unpayable,' per cent to overall economic picture of Viet Nam in the first ca. Spain’s new strategy focuses in the Syria office of the UK char- growth, respectively. The GSO quarter of 2021 remains stable on Nigeria, Ethiopia and South ity Oxfam, said although COVID- President said that the services sector post- with positive results. The Africa — identified as countries 19 has exacerbated the situation, it ed positive growth as enterpris- growth rate of 4.48 per cent was of particular political and econom- is the least worrying factor. Fernandez says es took advantage of free trade a relatively good result. ic relevance for Spain. She is seeing an increase in child labor, with girls between the Crisis-laden Argentina’s debt ages of 11 and 14, working 12-hour with the International Monetary shifts for $3 a day. She also ex- Fund (IMF) is "unpayable" in its I ran Regim e’s System atic Corruption pressed her concern that some fam- original form, the Latin American ilies are resorting to marrying off country’s president, Alberto and I ran’s Econom ic Crisis children in an effort to find their Fernandez, said Sunday. Fernan- way out of their struggles. Yacou- dez has been looking to renegoti- News from Iran indicates how nately, a limited number of poul- [adopted] prices. While 1,000 bian is convinced that after a de- ate several multibillion-dollar people are grappling with eco- try is distributed among people tons of fresh chicken and 1,000 cade of conflict, the aid approach debts ever since he took office in nomic hardships, particularly the standing in long lines to pur- tons of frozen chicken were to be to Syria needs to move from a strat- December 2019. The South skyrocketing prices and inflation. chase [poultry at a government- distributed daily to meet Tehran egy of emergency support, to one American country of 45 million Meanwhile, the state-run media set price],” wrote the state-run province’s 1,700-ton need, Rah- that will enable Syrians to become people has been in recession since acknowledge how the regime’s Young Journalist Club (YJC) on mati, the Chamber of Trade in- self-reliant. Vivi Michou, director- mid-2018. "The debt we inherit- economic mismanagement has Sunday. “If the government’s spector Unions, said that a total The economic situation in Syria lutions they have been offering. general of the EU's European Civil ed with the current terms is un- created Iran’s economic crisis. officials go to the market, as or- of 90 tons of poultry has arrived is at its worst since the conflict A combination of sanctions, Protection and Humanitarian Aid payable, and what we're looking People wait in long lines for dinary people do, they would for Tehran. This should be distrib- began a decade ago, according to hyperinflation, unemployment, Operations, echoed this, saying aid at is how to negotiate with the hours to purchase their basic see that most shops either do uted in Tehran and other cities of the United States Agency for In- COVID-19 and the deteriorating needs to change from an emergen- Fund to obtain the best advan- needs at governmental prices. not have poultry or selling it at the province,” wrote the state-run ternational Development (US- situation in surrounding states cy-style response to one that helps tages," Fernandez told Del Plata “There have been over a month high prices. The poultry [which Tasnim news agency on Thursday AID). Speaking at the Brussels V are all contributing to the coun- create a sustainable economy. radio station. Last week, Econo- since we face poultry scarcity is supposed to be sold at] 20,400 in this regard. The new Persian Conference, aid agencies joined try's challenges, with non-gov- The rising price of rice, oil and my Minister Martin Guzman around the country, and there are tomans is being sold at 40,000 Year of 1400 started on Sunday. representatives of the European ernmental organizations (NGOs) sugar is a hurdle to that. In just a traveled to Washington to meet difficulties in distributing it. Each tomans. There are long queues While Iranian people entered the Union to describe the latest situ- noting that women and young year, food prices have risen by 230 IMF chiefs. kilogram of poultry should be in front of markets and shops new year with poverty, the re- ation in Syria and present the so- people are the worst affected. percent. (BBC) sold at 20,400 tomans. Unfortu- that distribute poultry at the gime’s Supreme Leader. WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

The festival said Philip Yung's gangster thriller 'Where the Wind Blows' has been dropped from the lineup due to unspecified "technical reasons," which has become a common industry euphemism for censorship complaints from Beijing. The Hong Kong Interna- tional Film Festival has scrapped its opening-night world premiere of Where the Wind Blows, a widely anticipated crime thriller directed by local industry veteran Phil- ip Yung. The festival said in a statement that the cancellation was made "upon request from the film owner" due to "technical reasons." Over the past several years, such references to vague "technical problems" have become a common euphemism for last-minute Hollywood actor Russell Crowe for the hospitality #russellecrowe Damon and Jeff Goldblum are censorship complaints by China's has joined Marvel Cinematic Uni- @elsapatakyconfidential.” also returning after their appear- increasingly repressive film regu- verse’s Thor: Love and Thunder, The Gladiator shared also ance in Thor Ragnarok. The lators. Early promotion suggest- as per Deadline. Crowe was pho- shared one of the photos on his Guardians of the Galaxy cast ed that Where the Wind Blows tographed with the film’s leading Twitter timeline. Crowe’s role is members Chris Pratt, Dave Bau- would hew to the classic Hong star Hemsworth at a rugby game being kept under wraps and the tista and Karen Gillan will also Kong gangster genre, a category crucially acclaimed and impres- and Global Group. The movie thwart the movie's release there. over the weekend which led many details of his character are yet to be reprising their MCU charac- second only to martial arts cine- sively violent gangster flick Port was been in the works for years During the golden age of Hong to speculate that Crowe might be be known. Thor 4 brings back ters. Taika Waititi, who also di- ma as the city's most defining and of Call, which closed the HKIFF and previously was known as Kong cinema, the territory's re- a part of the film. Hemsworth had Natalie Portman as Jane Foster. rected Thor Ragnarok, is return- internationally beloved mode of in 2015. The movie also has gen- Theory of Ambitions. Hong lentlessly innovative commercial earlier shared photos from the Tessa Thompson will return as ing to the director’s chair for the moviemaking. The HKIFF's cata- erated excitement for presenting Kong's Apple Daily newspaper, film industry produced its game with the caption, “Great Valkyrie, who is now leading the film. The film is set to hit the log describes Where the Wind the first onscreen pairing of lo- whose founder Jimmy Lai is cur- projects primarily for the local game last night, congrats @ss- Asgardians. Christian Bale is set screens on May 6, 2022. Blows as centering "on the friend- cal stars Tony Leung (In the rently imprisoned for his role in Hong Kong market, which oper- fcrabbitohs on the win! Thanks to be the villain of the film. Matt (BBC) ship and rivalry between two re- Mood for Love) and Aaron supporting the city's pro-democ- ated within legal and film ratings sourceful police detectives who Kwok (The Monkey King), racy movement, previously re- systems that ensured freedom of forge dangerous alliances with or- who play the detectives. Where ported that Where the Wind expression. But as mainland Chi- ganized crime." The film is set the Wind Blows is produced by Blows was targeting a release in na's theatrical film market The Disciple trailer: A musical saga during the 1960s, when the city Hong Kong studio Mei Ah Film late 2018 before it became en- boomed, luring local studios and was under British colonial rule. Production and mainland Chi- tangled in censorship problems talent to the far larger pond across topped with powerful performances It is Yung's follow-up to his nese companies Dadi Century in mainland China that could the border.

he Disciple trailer: Directed by Chaitanya Tamhane, the multi-award winning film Akshay Kumar stars actor-musician Aditya Modak in the lead role, while Arun Dravid, Sumitra begins filming for Bhave, Deepika Bhide Bhagwat and Kiran Yadnyopavitin are in pivotal roles. 'Ram Setu'; shares On Tuesday, Netflix launched the trailer of its upcoming Marathi his intriguing look drama The Disciple. Directed by Chaitanya Tamhane, the multi- from the film! award winning film stars actor- musician Aditya Modak in the lead role. It’s set to premiere on April 30. The Disciple chronicles the journey of a musician Sharad Nerulkar, who diligently follows the traditions of his guru and father, and devotes his life to becoming an Indian classical vocalist. However, as time moves on, he is left questioning himself if he can ever achieve the excellence that he is striving for, and whether he will find the courage to fight his own mediocrity. Set in Mum- Nizhal trailer: Nayanthara, bai, The Disciple is a journey of devotion, passion, and searching for the absolute, in a city that Kunchacko Boban promise Akshay Kumar's one of the most never stops hustling. While not awaited films 'Ram Setu' starts much is revealed in the 1.3-minute rolling today as the team has kick- trailer, do gear up for some soul started the shoot! Akshay Kumar, stirring classical music and some an edgy mystery thriller the lead character of the film took powerful performances. The nar- to social media to update his fans rator even goes on to say that In- of family, and also balancing a job It is the journey of a Hindustani about the shooting along with his Nizhal stars Nayanthara, Kunchacko Boban Saiju Kurup, Izin Hash, Vinod Kovoor, Dr new look from the film. Akshay dian classical music is considered for a better lifestyle has been beau- classical vocalist’s struggles, Rani, Aneesh Gopal, and Divyaprabha. And it is expected to open in cinemas in April. the eternal quest as it leads one tifully projected in the trailer. Ex- dreams, and artistic journey in also revealed that he will be play- on the path to the divine. Also, cited about the world seeing his contemporary Mumbai. We were ing an archaeologist and is keen to The trailer of the upcoming Ma- judge. Interestingly, he seems to Nizhal is the directorial de- know the audience's thoughts on there is a hint of reality shows as film, writer-director Chaitanya blessed to have an extraordinary layalam film Nizhal was released hear cases while wearing a mask, but of award-winning film editor Sharad’s name is announced as Tamhane said in a statement, “The talent like Aditya Modak portray his look. on Monday, coinciding with the usually donned by crime-fight- Appu N. Bhattathiri. He has ed- In the new look shared by the ‘next contestant’. The fight Disciple is a true labour of love the protagonist, Sharad Ner- celebration of the Holi festival. ing vigilante characters. There ited several critically-acclaimed between continuing the tradition and a story very close to my heart. ulkar, through whose eyes. Akshay, he can be seen in a very The trailer promises a gripping seems to be more to Kunchac- films including, Veeram (2016), subtle yet fascinating avatar. Here mystery thriller that flirts with ko’s character than what meets Kali (2017), Ottamuri Velicham is what he wrote while sharing some horror elements. The teaser the eye. And we meet Nayantha- (2017), Theevandi (2018) and the post, "The journey of making Armie Hammer begins with a woman talking about ra, who seems to be the mother Dakini (2018). He has directed one of the most special films for a curious case of a schoolboy, who of the mystery child. And we are the film from the script penned me begins today. #RamSetu 'Hitman's Bodyguard dropped from frightens his teacher and class- treated to a series of suspense by S Sanjeev. Nizhal will be Nay- shooting begins! Playing an ar- mates by recounting a murder sto- building shots, where characters anthara’s first theatrical release chaeologist in the film. Would love thriller The ry. So “what was the story?” asks ask each other a lot of questions since Darbar, which came out in to hear your thoughts on the look? 2' Moving Up the character played by Kunchac- about the case that has caught January 2020. And the film is It always matters to me. Billion Dollar ko Boban, who seems to be a their imagination. also her return to Malayalam. (Santa Banta) Release to June Spy after abuse allegations Chloé Zhao on Nomadland’s The sequel to the 2017 sleeper hit reunites Samuel L. Jackson, Ryan Reynolds and Salma Hayek. feminist qualities, her hope to make a movie in China and why she directed Marvel’s Eternals

Embattled Hollywood star Armie Hammer has been dropped from Amma Asante’s thriller The Bil- lion Dollar Spy in the wake of rape allegation. Hammer was set Vakeel Saab trailer: to star alongside actor Mads Mikkelsen in the Cold War dra- Pawan Kalyan leads the ma. Based on the real-life story, the movie was set to feature Hammer as Brad Reid, a fresh fight in justice for women arrival at the Moscow station of Right now, the rise of Chloé Zhao simultaneously at the Venice and The sequel to the 2017 sleeper (Ryan Reynolds) and hitman Dar- just feels unstoppable. The Toronto International Film Fes- hit reunites Samuel L. Jackson, ius Kincaid (Samuel L. Jackson) – the CIA, where he is approached Producer Boney Kapoor on ration about the subject of con- by Soviet engineer Adolf Beijing-born filmmaker’s third tivals. At the latter, the film won Monday released the much- sent. Vakeel Saab is the official Ryan Reynolds and Salma Hayek. back on another life-threatening film, Nomadland, has become the the popular vote, the Audience The Hitman's Bodyguard 2 mission. Still unlicensed and un- Tolkachev, played by Mikkels- awaited trailer of Vakeel Saab, Telugu remake of director Anirud- en. Hammer’s exit from the movie to beat in this year’s awards Award, while in Venice it took which stars Telugu superstar dha Roy Chowdhury’s hit Hindi has a new title — The Hitman's der scrutiny, Bryce is forced into season race. In March, she became the prestigious Golden Lion. Wife's Bodyguard — and a new action by Darius’s even more vol- Walden Media project comes al- Pawan Kalyan in the lead role. film, Pink. Judging from the trail- most two weeks after it was re- the first ever Asian woman to win The significance was not lost “Ultimately Justice will win er, it seems, apart from adding a release date, Lionsgate and Mil- atile wife, the infamous interna- best director at the recent Golden on the modest 38 year-old. lennium announced Monday. tional con artist Sonia Kincaid (Sal- ported that the actor was under when you’ve the right person on few heroic moments to meet the police investigation after a wom- Globes and – after Barbra Strei- “First of all, my parents just your side (sic),” tweeted Bolly- approval of the fans of Pawan The sequel to the 2017 sleep- ma Hayek). sand in 1984 – only the second loved me so much more,” she wood’s hit producer, while shar- Kalyan, director Venu Sriram’s re- er hit is moving up its release Soon they find themselves in an alleged she was violently raped by him in 2017. A Los Angeles woman ever to claim the prize. As says with a grin. “China has a ing the trailer. The trailer finally make has remained loyal to the from Aug. 20 of this year to June a global plot involving a vengeful Streisand herself tweeted, “It’s big love affair with Venice, be- brings three key female charac- subject of the original film. We 16 (the film was originally sup- and powerful madman (Antonio Police Department spokesperson had said at that time that Ham- about time!” In April, Zhao’s film cause of Zhang Yimou and Jia ters to the spotlight. Until now, are introduced to three middle- posed to unfurl in 2020 but was Banderas) who is threatening to will compete at both the BAFTAs Zhangke.” Zhang twice won the the entire marketing campaign for class women, who get entangled pushed to 2021 due to the pan- destroy Europe. mer was the main suspect in a sexual assault that was reported and the Oscars – with Nomadland Golden Lion in the 1990s, with this film primarily focused on the in a vicious circle, as everyone in demic). Morgan Freeman also joins the now a front-runner ahead of high- The Story of Qiu Ju and Not male lead, Pawan Kalyan. So the society makes them feel guilty Patrick Hughes returns to di- franchise alongside Banderas. to police on February 3. Hours before the investiga- profile Netflix films Mank and The One Less; Jia claimed the prize much so that it led to specula- about the dress they wear, the rect from a script by Tom The Hitman's Bodyguard was Trial of the Chicago 7. It’s a mo- for his 2006 drama Still Life. tions that the filmmakers may food they eat, the way they smile O'Connor. Hitman's Wife's Body- a box office smash, earning $177 tion, a woman called Effie accused Hammer of rape in a press mentum that’s been building since When Zhao followed suit, it im- have changed the very DNA of and the time they come back guard find the world's most lethal million worldwide against a $30 Zhao’s film premiered last Sep- mediately turned the spotlight the film, which was originally en- home. The film also challenges the odd couple — Michael Bryce million budget. conference with attorney Gloria Allred. tember in highly unusual fashion, on her back home. visioned as a female-centric nar- perception that a girl’s. WEDNESDAY . MARCH 31, 2021 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Chris Silverw ood proud of England effort s over long w int er despit e t hree series defeat s in India "I'm proud of each and every player who has been out here"; England head coach Chris Silverwood praised the attitude of his players at the end of a long winter touring Sri Lanka and India and expects them to be better for the experience

Mohamed Salah: Liverpool forward admits he 'may be' open to a future move to Real Madrid or Barcelona Mohamed Salah has hinted that and ahead of the games, Salah re- up to me. We'll see what happens, "Lots of things happened at once. his future could lie in Spanish fused to rule out a future move but I prefer not to talk about that Luck hasn't been on our side," he football amid continued specula- to La Liga. When asked whether now." Salah also described his re- added. "It's made us want to win tion that the forward could leave he is eager to try out Spanish foot- lationship with manager Klopp as the Champions League even more Liverpool. The Premier League's ball, Salah told MARCA: "I a "normal relationship between and I hope we can do it." The joint-top scorer this season is hope to be able to play for many two professionals". Liverpool's forward, currently away on in- England may have left India emp- against Virat Kohli's men, who very proud of them, I'm proud of under contract at Anfield until more years. Why not? "No one chances of defending the 2019/20 ternational duty with Egypt, also ty-handed after series defeats bounced back to take the red- each and every player who has 2023 but has been linked with a knows what's going to happen Premier League title have fallen admitted he felt uncertain regard- across all three formats, but head ball, Twenty20 and ODI ho- been out here," he said. "I'm proud move elsewhere, with Barcelona in the future, so... maybe one day, away over the course of the cam- ing the prospect of representing coach Chris Silverwood reflect- nours. of the effort and the attitude that's and Real Madrid often touted as yes. "I hope to be doing the same paign, with leaders Manchester his country at the Olympic ed on a long winter of touring with England did not make things been shown towards the game. I potential destinations for Salah if thing that I've been doing in re- City currently holding a 25-point Games in Tokyo this summer, pride in place of regrets. Silver- easy, taking both white-ball legs think we've learned a lot and from he were to depart Merseyside. cent years. Winning trophies, gap over the Reds who are seventh which could prove problematic wood left home for Sri Lanka on to a decider and going all the way that point of view, I couldn't ask Last year, the forward described scoring goals, helping my team in the table with seven matches re- for Liverpool with the next Pre- January 2 and spent almost three to a final dramatic over in the any more of them. I think we take the Spanish giants as two "great" win trophies... "That's the most maining this season. Klopp's side mier League season set to start full months on one of the most one-dayers thanks to Sam Cur- a lot of experience. "It's a very dif- clubs, but Jurgen Klopp later important thing for me." In Jan- are still yet to win a top-flight on August 14. "Whatever hap- restrictive away trips ever under- ran's rousing fightback. Looking ficult place to come and win, we played down any transfer talk uary, Salah said he wanted to home game this calendar year dur- pens, everyone will be in agree- taken, taking in quarantines and back on a long and arduous as- know that India are very strong in surrounding the Egyptian inter- stay and continue to break ing a poor run of results in 2021. ment - including my club," he bio-secure bubbles in Hamban- signment, Silverwood could their conditions. national. Liverpool play Real records for as long as possible at Salah believes Liverpool's below- said. Salah joined Liverpool from tota, Galle, Chennai, Ahmedabad only commend his troops. "I'm (Sky Sport) Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Anfield and claimed he was "100 par performances in the league Roma for a then club-record trans- and Pune. On the field, England Champions League in April as the per cent" committed to winning mean he and his team-mates have fer fee in 2017 and the 28-year- peaked in the first Test against two sides meet for the first time more trophies at the club. When an added reason to redeem them- old has scored 119 goals in 192 India, following back-to-back since 2018's final in Kiev which pressed once again on his future selves in their bid to try and re- matches for the club in all com- wins in Sri Lanka with a memo- Vitality Netball finished 3-1 to the Spanish side at Liverpool, he said: "It's not claim the Champions League. petitions. rable success in the series opener Superleague: Leeds Rhinos win thriller against London Dustin Johnson Pulse; Saracens Mavericks will not AnthonyJoshuaor TysonFurycouldbeforced beat Severn Stars compete at Coverage of the Vitality Netball Superleague continues on Valero Texas tofight me,saysAmericanrivalMichaelHunter Sunday with Round Nine and four matches back-to-back streamed live on the Sky Sports YouTube channel from 12pm Michael Hunter plans to enforce Open ahead of a fight against the Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury winner as Masters he believes a world heavyweight title shot is 'rightfully mine'. The defence American will face Filip Hrgovic in an IBF final eliminator to earn a mandatory fight for the IBF belt, which is currently held by Britain's unified champion Joshua. WBC title holder Fury is set to battle Joshua for all the world belts this year, crowning an undisputed champion, and Hunter intends to emerge as an unavoidable challenger. "We do know it's a business, there's a lot of things that go on, but I think I have the opportunity to claim what's rightfully mine and put it out there, and shine," Hunter told Sky Sports. "I've got to this point. There's been many Leeds Rhinos Netball secured key moments they stepped up to factors to get here, but now I've their fifth win of the season af- make sure that the three match World No 1 Dustin Johnson will put them in a mandatory posi- ter an outstanding contest with points belonged to them. For Lon- not compete in this week's Valero tion, it's time to fight. There's contracts for a blockbuster battle, expects to finalise these terms thony Joshua," said Hunter. "I London Pulse, while Saracens don Pulse, the game was a remind- Texas Open, the PGA announced nothing else to do." with a date and venue to be fina- within the next three weeks. "It's see Tyson Fury edging it out. Mavericks overcame Severn er of just how talented their young on Monday. He reportedly agreed Joshua and Fury have signed lised, and promoter Eddie Hearn a very challenging fight for An- (Sky Sport) Stars at the end of Round Eight squad is and their performance was to play prior to Friday's deadline of the Vitality Netball Super- a significant departure from their but Ryan Brehm has been con- league. After four back-to-back 51-29 defeat to Bath the day pri- firmed as Johnson's replacement matches on Sunday, both Rhi- or. Sam Bird's team started confi- in the field. No official reason was Finn Russell: nos and Pulse returned to court dently, their attackers played with initially given for Johnson's with- LosAngeles Clippers beat Milwaukee for their second games of the purpose and led by 20-year-old drawal but the player has since Scotland round, while Stars and Mavs Ellie Rattu at Centre, they found released a statement. were both fresh for their duel. shooter Sigi Burger well. The re- "After much careful thought Bucks for sixth straight NBA win fly-half given Every side will now take a sult was a well-earned 15-9 lead over the weekend, I have decided points and Terance Mann three-match ban short breather before Round after 12 minutes, before Tuaine to withdraw from the Valero Tex- notched 14 points, six rebounds Nine starts on Sunday lunch- Keenan came on at GK for Rhi- as Open," Johnson said. and six assists as the Clippers after red card time, and if you did miss any of nos and had a significant impact "I now plan to spend the week won their sixth straight game. Los the action, then you can watch on the game. Together, Keenan and at home in preparation for next Angeles scored 72 second-half against France every match back in full on the Vicki Oyesola shut down Pulse's week's Masters. I sincerely apol- points and outscored the Bucks Sky Sports YouTube channel. options and Rhinos' attack-end re- ogise to all the sponsors at Valero 33-19 in the final quarter. Mil- Dan Ryan's Leeds Rhinos warded their work using a faster and all my friends in San Anto- waukee's Giannis Antetokounm- put a slow start behind them to speed of ball through court. After nio, as I realise this is disappoint- po scored 32 points on his return prevail over a rejuvenated Lon- using the second quarter to cut the ing news. "Nonetheless, I have no from a one-game absence due to a don Pulse outfit in the final deficit against them, Rhinos main- doubt it will be another great week knee injury. Jrue Holiday record- contest of Round Eight. The 40- tained their momentum and took ed 24 points, seven assists and 38 contest saw Rhinos lose the the lead in the opening stages of for the Valero Texas Open." The first and fourth quarters, but at the third. Valero Texas Open in San Anto- three steals and Khris Middleton nio, which runs from Thursday added 15 points for the Bucks, until Sunday, live on Sky Sports, who lost their third straight game. is considered a warm-up event for Rudy Gobert contributed 18 Israel the Masters. Johnson won at points, 17 rebounds and four The Los Angeles Clippers scored ing a 129-105 victory over the blocks and Donovan Mitchell had Augusta last year to be fitted with 72 second-half points to over- Milwaukee Bucks. Luke Kennard Adesanya: his first green jacket. a team-high 19 points as the Utah come the Milwaukee Bucks on scored a season-high 21 points Jazz cruised to their sixth straight The 36-year-old was also Monday night. Marcus Morris while starting for injured Paul Scotland fly-half Finn Russell has UFC named PGA Player of the Year win by crushing the Cleveland Sr. scored 25 points and Kawhi George (foot). He was 8 of 11 from Cavaliers 114-75 in Salt Lake been given a three-match ban af- middleweight last season, the second time in Leonard added 23 points, nine the field and 5 of 6 from 3-point City. Mike Conley was the only ter being sent off for foul play in which he has claimed the acco- rebounds and eight assists as the range, with four of his treys com- other Jazz player to reach dou- his side's Six Nations victory over lade. host Los Angeles Clippers dom- ing in rapid succession in the final ble figures - 18 points on 5-of-9 France. Russell was sent off in champion (Sky Sport) inated the second half while post- quarter. Reggie Jackson scored 20 shooting - as Utah went. the 71st minute of Scotland's win in Paris on Friday night after apologises catching Brice Dulin near the throat with his elbow as he at- for 'rape' tempted to fend off the France Silver Quartz seeking Mile gold at Lingfield full-back. An independent disci- remark on plinary committee decided that Silver Quartz will have the assis- for because he likes the Polytrack Russell's act had been "properly tance of Hollie Doyle in the Bom- and the mile is a good distance categorised as striking with the social media bardier All-Weather Mile Champi- for him. "He won at Deauville at arm", an offence that usually onship at Lingfield on Friday. For- the beginning of January and then warrants a six-week suspension. UFC middleweight champion line". "I understand the gravity of merly trained by Hugo Palmer and I did not have a lot of options, However, due to several fac- Israel Adesanya has apologised this word and how it can affect Archie Watson, Silver Quartz was which is why I kept him fresh tors, including Russell's "atti- after he said on social media he and hurt other people apart from highly thought of in his younger for the race at Chantilly. "That tude" and "clear remorse", his ban would "rape" fellow fighter my opponent, although that was days but appeared to lose his way. was another nice performance was shortened to three weeks, Kevin Holland. Nigerian-born never my intention," Adesanya He joined Francis-Henri Graf- from him - and I think the confi- which will see him miss three Adesanya posted an expletive- tweeted. "I am still growing under fard in France in September 2019 dence of the horse at the moment matches for French club Racing laden video on Instagram earlier the spotlight, and I take this as a and has subsequently won four is very high." 92. A summary of the hearing this week directed at Holland, lesson to be more selective with times, including the last twice. "I Another French-trained run- said: "Mr Russell accepted that who had targeted him in a series words under pressure." Adesan- am very happy with Silver Quartz ner in the race is Canagat, who he had committed an act of foul of remarks. The 31-year-old, ya's apology came after Grant - I think he heads to Lingfield in Doyle rode to victory at New- play and that it had warranted a who currently resides in New Robertson, New Zealand's depu- very good form," said Graffard. castle twice last summer when red card. However, he did not Zealand, later deleted the video ty prime minister and minister of "It looks an obvious race to go with Watson. accept that he had 'struck'. and said he had "crossed the sport and recreation. WEDNESDAY. MARCH 31.2021 - Hamal 11, 1400 HS Vol:XV Issue No:205 Price: Afs.20

accomplish mega regional projects of energy transfer and connectiv- ity. “I cannot express in words the pain and grief of the people, the security and defense forces who are sacrificing their lives for peace everyday … Ensuring peace and security in Afghanistan AT News is important for all of us like ox- ygen,” he said, adding a stable KABUL: President Ashraf Afghanistan was in the interest Ghani during his speech at the of all regional countries. national university of Tajikistan Speaking at the occasion, committed a verbal mistake once Tajikistan President Emomali again by reading a poem by a fa- Rahmon stressed the Afghan con- mous Persian Poet Rudaki incor- flict has no military solution. He rectly. His continued slip-up and welcomed efforts by the govern- the recent poem became a public ment of Afghanistan for peace joke for the people, sparking so- and expressed Dushanbe’s sup- cial media user’s reactions. One KABUL: Afghanistan’s imme- efforts for a political settlement in in Tajikistan’s capital Dushanbe, port for a cease-fire and political of the social media users and jour- diate neighbors and key global the war-ravaged country. Address- Afghan President Mohammad settlement. Foreign ministers and nalist Zai Sharharyar wrote on players in the peace process on ing the Heart of Asia-Istanbul Pro- Ashraf Ghani reiterated the re- representatives of Turkey, Rus- his twitter, when... Tuesday called for expediting cess meeting of foreign ministers solve to achieve lasting peace and sia, China, ...

AT News one leg,” says Mohammad, a 70- stan to its six neighbors. It is the take his place in making money. AT News year old farmer in Ghor prov- least developed province and resi- We are in a big trouble. Nobody strong desire and firm resolve to AT News advance peace and reconciliation KABUL: “We are poor people. ince at the center of the country. dents make livelihood from animal dares to get out of their homes ABUL: Chinese For My son was shepherding at the Ghor is located among high breeding as they lack enough land because there are landmines plant- in Afghanistan.” “This year marks KABUL: Some members of the eign Minister Wang Yi the 10th anniversary of the launch village to support the family. But mountains and has lied far from for cultivation. “He was our bread- ed everywhere,” said Mohammad Parliament instructed the inter- attended the ninth a landmine hit him and he lost his highways that connect Afghani- winner and there is nobody else to who leads a big... of the Istanbul Process. Over the nal security commission of the Ministerial Confer- past decade, thanks to the full sup- house to probe the civilians’ ca- ence of the Heart of Asia-Istan- port of all parties concerned and sualties in Sabari district of east- bul Process via video link said, the broader international commu- ern Khost province. According “While some of us could not nity, this multilateral cooperation to some reports, a number of ci- attend the Conference in person mechanism has played a construc- vilians, including children and due to COVID-19 or other rea- tive role in promoting peace, sta- women were killed and wounded sons, I believe we all share a bility and... in operations...

AT News AT Monitoring Desk gistics of removing troops and dangerous to our troops [and] I AT News KABUL: The Taliban group has equipment in such a short period don’t want to leave a bunch of, pushed for a mere delay in the ABUL: There is a of time, a top House Democrat you know, high-grade military Istanbul meeting, suggesting it KABUL: The National Director- of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA- “general feeling” with said. “Running for the exits pell- equipment behind for whoever ate of Security (NDS) claims should be held after the holy in the Biden adminis IP) on Afghanistan in Dushanbe, mell by May 1 is dangerous,” Rep. grabs it either.” Smith said that they have killed two important Tajikistan. He asserted that Af- month of Ramadan month that tration that with- Adam Smith, D-Wash., the chair- extending the U.S. and coalition follows with a three-day holiday commanders of Taliban and al- ghanistan needs "double peace" drawing all U.S. forces from Af- man of the House Armed Services presence in Afghanistan “is a Qaeda terrorist group in Paktika of Eid al-fitr. The Istanbul meet- ghanistan by a May 1 deadline is which is peace within and around Committee, said during a purely logistical argument” and province. In a statement issued the country. During his address at ing was expected to be held on “too soon,” largely due to the lo- virtual Foreign Policy event. “It is will not change... April 15th among the representa- on Tuesday, the intelligence agen- the key conference, attended by tives of the world’s countries in- cy said that Daulat Baig, known representatives of 50 other coun- volved in Afghan affairs. After the as Abdu Mohammad Ali Tajiki, a tries, S Jaishankar said, "For a Afghan and Taliban peace negoti- Tajikistan citizen who was re- durable peace in Afghanistan, ators appeared reluctant to reach sponsible for... what we need is a genuine ‘double a breakthrough in the intra-Afghan peace’, that is, peace within Af- negotiations ongoing in Doha, the NEW DELHI: External Affairs ghanistan and peace around Af- U.S. presented the two sides with Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar ghanistan. It requires harmonising a new proposal to forge a peace on Tuesday attended the ninth interests of all, both within and deal to end its longest historic Ministerial Conference of Heart around that country." war. The Taliban called the upcoming holy month of Ramadan AT News AT News as a reason for delaying the meeting. Both theAfghan government KABUL: Tens of foreign nation- and the Taliban earlier confirmed KABUL: At least 32 Taliban al militants are active under the militants were killed and 18 oth- their participation in the Turkey Taliban command in the eastern meeting, terming it a defining mo- ers were wounded during latest Laghman province, local officials crackdowns carried out by the ment for Afghanistan to reach a said on Tuesday. The foreign AT Monitoring Desk was “extensive talks at the Heart AT Monitoring Desk Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process political... Afghan security forces in differ- militants provided... of Asia [meeting] in Dushanbe,” ent provinces around the coun- (HoA-IP) Ministerial Conference KABUL: Iran’s Minister of For- and issues of Afghanistan, region- try in the past 24 hours, defense KABUL: Pakistan Foreign in the Tajik capital, the foreign eign Affairs said on Tuesday in a al and global issues and bilateral ministry said on Tuesday. The Minister Shah Mahmood minister called for a united ap- Twitter message that in the Asian cooperation were on agenda with Afghan security forces support- Qureshi on Tuesday said Paki- proach by regional countries to Heart Conference held in Tajiki- presidents and foreign minister of ed by Afghan Air Forces con- stan would continue to support help restore prosperity of the Af- stan, participants “stressed the Tajikistan and Afghanistan, as well ducted operations in Arghandab a peaceful and stable Afghani- ghan people. Qureshi termed the UN role in inclusive Afghanistan as foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, district of southern Kandahar, in stan through a political instead Heart of Asia Process an impor- peace talks”. The country’s for- India, Pakistan, Turkey. The which 13 Taliban... of a military solution to the con- tant platform to bring together eign minister, Zarif said that there Conference ... flict. In his address at the 9th partners and...

The Turkish foreign minister on of Asia-Istanbul Process, in Dus- ago. He said that "the idea that counter-terrorism to trade." Tuesday welcomed the peace ne- hanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. gave birth to this initiative still Noting that the peace pro- gotiations between the represen- "Afghanistan's security, sta- stands strong: The problems of cess in Afghanistan has reached The Azerbaijani foreign minister KABUL: Turkish Ambassador to Afghanistan, Oguzhan tatives of the Afghan government bility and well-being are impor- our region can only be addressed an important point, the Turk- Ertuðrul had a candid discussion with members sof Afghan on Tuesday said his country re- and the Taliban in Doha, Qatar. "In- tant for all of us," he said, adding in a spirit of regional coopera- ish minister thanked Qatar for mained committed to supporting Women’s Network about the ongoing efforts to revitalize the tra-Afghan negotiations have raised that the Heart of Asia-Istanbul tion and ownership. The confi- its efforts. "However, the vio- peace process, and how to ensure adding women’s voices in the reconstruction and economic hopes to achieve lasting peace," Process is "still the most inclu- dence-building measures within lence still continues. We need a development of Afghanistan. those efforts including the leadership meeting in Turkey. said Mevlüt Çavusoglu at the 9th sive platform on Afghanistan" the Istanbul Process are valuable comprehensive cease-fire for a Afghan women should also unite to that end. “We remain committed to Ministerial Meeting of the Heart since its establishment 10 years in various fields, ranging from political settlement. supporting the stabilization, peaceful reconstruction, and development of Afghanistan through NDS: bilateral efforts as well as active 'Taliban Leaders participation within the multilat- Summoned to eral platforms,” said Jeyhun Bayramov at the 9th Ministerial Peshawar for War Meeting of Heart of Asia-Istan- “We have defeated the enemy.” The international community is Planning' bul Process, co-chaired by Tajiki- stan and Afghanistan, in the Tajik scrambling to secure peace in Afghanistan, but the Taliban believe Pakistan’s intelligence agency capital Dushanbe. they have the upper hand — and are saying as much. has summoned the Taliban’s “We closely follow the intra- shadow governors and com- Afghan peace talks with the hope that this process will eventually KABUL: The Taliban’s swagger war. And that belief, grounded in manders to wage war in Afghan- istan, said Nazar Ali Wahidi, the lead to the establishment of dura- is unmistakable. From the recent military and political reality, is ble peace and security in the coun- bellicose speech of their deputy shaping Afghanistan’s volatile deputy head of the National Directorate of Security (NDS), try in full respect to Afghanistan’s leader, boasting of “conquests,” present. On the eve of talks in sovereignty, independence, and to sneering references to the “for- Turkey next month over the Afghanistan's intelligence agency. However, he said that the territorial integrity,” Bayramov eign masters” of the “illegitimate” country’s future, it is the ele- added.“Azerbaijan regards the Kabul government, to the Tali- phant in the room: the half-ac- Afghan security forces are fully prepared to crush any hostile Istanbul Process as a valuable ban’s own website tally of “pup- knowledged truth that the Tali- mechanism of attaining peace, rec- pets” killed — Afghan soldiers — ban have the upper hand and are move by the Taliban if the peace process does not lead to a final onciliation, security and econom- they are promoting a bold mes- thus showing little outward in- ic development of Afghanistan. sage: We have already won the terest in... conclusion.