Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XI Issue No:311 Price: Afs.20

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AT News Report

KABUL: The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) with AT News Report States diplomats. Attaurahman cooperation of the Qatari Red Salim, deputy head for HPC, Crescent Society has entitled 141 said: “With Mullah Abdul Ghani children suffering from heart hole KABUL: The High Peace disease for treatment in the Qatari Council (HPC) on Sunday Bradar and Mullah Fazel coming into picture, we thought that as hospitals. According to a claimed that the presence of statement released on Sunday by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar as they are key figures of the Taliban … this shortcoming the ARCS, the heart holes the second in command in Taliban affected children would be cured ranks in the peace negotiations [Taliban’s impotence] has been dealt with; however, free of charge due to celebration was not helpful to bring peace of the 100th anniversary of to the war-hit country. unfortunately, just like the past this flaw in the Taliban’s Afghanistan independent day. Mullah Baradar was Meanwhile, over 16,000 children appointed as the head of delegation remains unabated.” Salim said HPC was striving are struggling with heart hole Taliban’s political office based in disease have been registered so far Qatar by the militant leader to initiate direct dialogues between the government and the in the ARCS, from whom over Mullah Hebatullah earlier this 9,000 ones were cured and 6,700 year after being released from Taliban has raised hopes for these talks. This comes at a time that are waiting to be cured. This Pakistani custody last comes as the ARCS Secretary.... November. He is now heading the seventh round of the peace... the peace talks with the United

The Council of Presidential the next few days, sources familiar demonstrations on the upcoming the illegal extension of President Candidates and a number of with the developments told Ariana Thursday. Meanwhile, members Ghani’s tenure beyond May 22. political movements are gathering News. The political parties are of the Council of Presidential “We do not care what Ghani says their supporters to stage a huge planning to gather over 50,000 Candidates say that they have not now. He was the country’s.... protest against the government in people for launching changed their position regarding

AT News Report AT News Report terrorism and extremism”. “It is KABUL: President Mohammad KABUL: At least 82 militants the summer and it is a war season Ashraf Ghani left Kabul for were killed and 23 others because madrassas in Pakistan are London on Sunday to discuss wounded in multiple extensive off and they [the students of the peace talks with the country’s military crackdowns within... madrassas] are sent to officials. He will also watch... Afghanistan in the name of Jihad,” the police chief said. Khan said that while peace efforts are underway, the Taliban are intensifying the war in the south so they can “get privileges” during the talks. “We are prepared AT News Report and we will respond to every attack by the Taliban,” Khan said. A study by Afghanistan KABUL: The Taliban fighters The police chief of Kandahar, Mir Rahman Rahmani, an MP have dug trenches on road that Institute of Strategic Studies in from Parwan province, who was Gen. Tadeen Khan, says that the 2017 found that the number of links northern Faryab province Taliban attacks on security forces declared as the new speaker of to the adjacent Jawzjan province, unregistered madrassas in Afghanistan’s parliament after in the south of Afghanistan have Afghanistan has dramatically making trouble for transportation, increased amid the start of summer controversial voting in May, vows locals said. The group has dug increased. Almost 300 people not to step down from his post holidays in Pakistani madrassas were interviewed at 50 holes in ‘Number One Highway’, which according to him is training despite his critics say he has not which located in the Shirin Tagab unregistered madrassas in ten secured the required votes for the “extremism and terrorism” to its provinces of Afghanistan with district of Faryab province. The students. Khan said that lack of post. On May 18, there were 247 Highway is vital connecting the main focus on suicide attacks, MPs when the voting started and religious schools in the country is the study shows. “Afghan Maymana city, the provincial questioning and it pushes the based on this quorum, 124 votes capital to Jawzjan, Balkh.... students should be trained inside were needed for a winning... Afghan youth to go to Pakistan the country in order to prepare and there, they get “training on their mindset. (TOLONews) MONDAY . JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Govt Oppositions Gathering Supporters for ‘Huge Protests’ ...P1 President before May through understanding each other 22nd. We do what we want,” said because the security situation is Shahab Hakimi, a presidential considerably serious and we candidate. According to the should be careful,” said sources, the protests will begin Mohammad Asif Sediqi, second at the end of this week from deputy of the Senate Speaker. specific locations and will spread This comes a day after the to major parts of the city. “Our presidential candidates warned main goal is to advocate the that they will boycott the people’s rights. The current upcoming presidential election if government is a dictatorship Ghani remains in power. government in which the people In response to the candidates’ are being used as tools,” said warnings, a spokesman for Abdul Latif Nazari, the running President Ghani said that he Critics said that delay in the election budget shows a lack of expertise in the leadership of the electoral body. mate of a presidential candidate. wishes the political parties give Politicians express their concern the leadership opportunity to the regarding the ongoing tension new generation rather than only A former official of the Daud Ali Najafi, former head between President Ghani and to their own children. Independent Election Commission the IEC secretariat, said the presidential candidates, saying it The tensions between (IEC) on Sunday criticized the whole electoral process will be will have consequences for the President Ghani and the electoral body for a delay in stalled until the budget is not war-torn country. presidential candidates erupted finalizing the budget for the finalized. “The presidential after the Supreme Court extended upcoming presidential elections, “It shows the lack of candidates should try to solve Ghani’s tenure until the re-election warning that it will undermine the planning, lack of experience and the issue with the government of a new President. whole process. it shows that a national process Last week on Wednesday, an is changing into a mess,” said election commissioner Mawlana Najafi. “There is no will for HPC unhappy with Mullah Baradar’s Abdullah said they are in talks holding the [presidential] with the Finance Ministry to elections and the commissioners ‘unhelpful’ presence in peace negotiations finalize the budget as soon as are ‘confused’,” said Khoshal ...P1 talks between the US counterterrorism assurances, a possible. The IEC last month Watandost, an MP. negotiators and the Taliban ceasefire and direct talks between estimated that the presidential Meanwhile, the head the IEC members in Doha, Qatar, will the Afghan government and the elections and the district councils secretariat, Habib Rahman Nang, take place next week. However, Taliban are the main key issues and the Ghazni parliamentary said all their plans are ongoing the Taliban have so far refused which have been under debate in election will cost $132 million. well, but he did not talk about so sit on the table with the the six rounds of the negotiators But later, the commission removed improvements in the election Afghan government. between US chief negotiator district councils and Ghazni budget. “The operational plan The US forces withdrawal ZalmayKhalilzad and Taliban parliamentary elections from the has been approved. The action from Afghanistan, members. process and said that only the plan is prepared, and we are going presidential elections will be held ahead step by step,” Nang said. on September 28. (TOLONews) Ghani flies to London to discuss Afghan peace, watch cricket game ...P1 a cricket match between presidential palace hopes these Afghan and England national tremendous efforts facilitate teams scheduled to be held in ground for a lasting peace in InKabul,voter registrationremainslistless Manchester City. Afghanistan. In his three-day visit to This comes as Germany KABUL: People’s participation finding locations of some centres. women, were visiting this centre said this centre had been open for accessible areas for voter London, Ghani is to meet announced that the country in the voter registration process Location of some centres for registration on a daily basis. the past three days but only 10 registration centres. Britain’s senior officials and will would host an intra-Afghan remains sluggish as a result of A voter centre was supposed Soma, a worker of the people had arrived for registration. Meanwhile, officials of the discuss bilateral relationship and dialogue, where Taliban and problems in the location of centres to be set up at the Malika Suraya Independent Election One of the staffers said the centre poll panel refused to share their the country’s role in the Afghan government representatives and lack of public awareness. High School in the limits of the Commission (IEC) at this center, was located in the middle of views on the issues. peace process, said presidential would discuss peace talks. Earlier, the Independent 4th police district but it is yet to acknowledged the participation buildings and it was difficult for On Thursday, IEC Secretary palace in a statement. Meanwhile, China’s Election Commission (IEC) open. Tahira, a resident of the area, of people stayed sluggish. A the people to access it. Lack of Habib Rahman Nang blamed the In addition to the separate ambassador to Kabul, Liu Jinsong announced launching a 20-day arrived at the school to register but Pajhwok reporter also went to awareness Ministry of Education for not meeting with UK’s officials, in a meeting with the National voter registration process for the there was no voter registration the 5th police district and visited Samiullah, 67, an inhabitant of helping in identification of President Ghani will watch Security Advisor Hammadullah Sept 28 presidential election. centre there. a registration centre at the the Mirwais Maidan area of polling stations in a particular cricket match, be held between Mohib, said that Beijing would The drive was launched to A Pajhwok reporter visited the Mohammad Ismael Hassanzai Kabul, told Pajhwok: “I am area. He alleged the security Afghanistan and England teams host a meeting regarding Afghan document eligible voters who had school to file a report, but one of High School. One of the officials unaware of the voter registration forces had also failed to supply on June 18th, added the peace process. not registered before, those who the teachers said the registration at this centre said on the campaign and its importance.” important materials to the statement. Ghanin’s trip to London reached the legal voting age centre had been shifted to the Nasir condition of anonymity it was Mohammad Idress, hailing polling sites. As a consequence, Ghani’s Spokesman, Shah comes at a time, while the US recently or had not attached Khesro High School. But there 10:30am but only one individual from Khoshal Khan area, was the process was marred by Hossien Murtazawi, said that special envoy for Afghanistan stickers to their identity cards. was no centre there either. Instead had referred to the, for aware of the voter registration’s delays in most of districts. Ghani’s trip to London is part of reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Voters are being listed at 700 it was active at the Tajor Sultani registration. launch. However, he had no idea He said since the launch of his peace efforts. “The aim of would start the seventh round of the trip is to strengthen bilateral peace talks with the Taliban registration centres – 35 of them School. Hashmatullah, in charge of He said there were two about the location of the the registration process, 15,000 relationships and Britain’s crucial officials in Doha. are in Kabul. For the past one the centre at the Sultani School, registration counters at the registration centre. people had had been listed as role in the peace process,” he said. But some influential figures week, Pajhwok Afghan News disclosed: “We have opened the centres (male and female) and Ali Ahmad Jaffari, a resident voters, including 9,358 men, “We showed our national claim that Ghani’s term was over reporters visited some centres in voter registration centre two days eight workers from IEC were on of the 3rd police district, believed 4,500 women and 113 Kochis. consensus in the Consultative on May 22nd as the government Kabul. back because of disagreements duty from 8:00am till evening. the IEC had made a hasty decision Nang said political parties, civil Peace Loya Jirga (Grand oppositions and electoral They found that people’s between the principals and Workers of another centre in on choosing registration centers. society groups and media should Assembly), another issue is candidates criticized the recent participation in the process teachers of Malika Suraya and the 3rd police district at the He suggested the commission spread awareness among the regional consensus and beyond changes in the governmental remained lackluster due to lack of Nasir Khesro schools.” He said Afghan Technology Institute, should have launched a public people regarding the importance regional,” he said. He said that administrations, made by Ghani. awareness and problems in three to 15 individuals, including who also declined to be named, awareness programme and chosen of registering as voters. Qatari ho spitals to treat ten s o f Afghan children w ith heart ho le disease ...P1 General Dr. Nilab Mubarez are poor and vulnerable people Afghan cricket victim of politics had earlier said the society had and their families are not able to granted different healthcare afford expenditure of the ...P12 test-cricket-playing Full 2018, which came in the wake of day internationals and Rashid against Pakistan and that he is in as well get its way around in services for over four million treatment. Member nation. Cricket has been rifts between players and former Khan and Rahmat Shah are the team working for someone Afghan cricket, if not paid heed. across the country. The ARCS Only the way and hope for played in Afghanistan since the ACB head Atif Mashal over the captains for T20I and Test else. He alleges that there is a The Kenyan team’s captain say that all the children with children with heart disease is mid-19th century, but it is only Afghanistan Premier League. Noor formats, respectively. Naib conspiracy going on and other set was banned for match-fixing in heart disease registered in ARCS ARCS. in recent years that the national Ali Zadran, Shapoor Zadran and captains the side at the World and in shape players are also not August 2004, and a series of team has become successful. The several other cricketers, who were Cup. This act right before the being given chance. For instance, strikes by players led to a Afghanistan Cricket Board was not sold in the APL, complained World Cup was widely Asghar Afghan, who Shahzad says weakened Kenyan side and by Afghan forces inflict heavy formed in 1995 and became an against Mashal and as a result, he condemned and provoked is fully fit. the end of the dispute in 2005, affiliate member of the was replaced through a various reactions from Afghans. Interestingly, further to these Kenyan cricket had no sponsors International Cricket Council presidential decree. Much to the chagrin of unexpected changes, it wasn’t long and was in virtual international casualties on Taliban (ICC) in 2001 and a member of Soon after Fazli’s takeover, Afghans, these changes or after Shahzad’s dismissal and isolation. At that stage, its the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Dawlat Khan Ahmadzai was reforms were taken to another harsh criticism by people that four governing body had dissolved ....P1 past 24 hours. In a press 12 wounded and three others in 2003. Afghanistan currently appointed as the chief selector for level when Asghar Afghan wasn’t new board members for the high internally and Kenyan cricket release issued Sunday in Kabul, arrested in Ishkashem and ranks as seventh in T20I format leading the three-member picked upin the first three games board of cricket were introduced opportunities were limited and Ministry of Defense, (MoD) Baharak districts of Takhar, eight and 10th in ODI, as per the ICC independent selection committee, due to his reported months-old in accordance with a presidential international cricket for them had said that Afghan National Army militants were killed and two world rankings. Afghan team is replacing Nawroz Mangal. ACB shoulder injury. However, he is decree. Gulalai Noor Safi, Ahmad virtually ceased. (ANA) with the cooperation of others arrested in Balablok district now in England for the ODI chairman Fazli announced these included in the squad – after stern Jawad Paikar, Ziaulhaq Amarkhail, Considering the grave Afghan National Police (ANP) of Farah, six insurgents were World Cup 2019. changes roughly one month after public outcry – against South and Shukrullah Atif Mashal are the situation and so-called hasty and National Directorate of killed and six others wounded in For Afghan cricket, the taking power in October, 2018. Africa and the Saturday’s newly appointed members of the changes and reforms, one can Security (NDS) personnel, Pashtoon Zarghon district of biggest victory of all came by Subsequently, Asghar Afghan, encounter is crucial for the team ACB. The former chairman of the conclude that they aren’t proving conducted operations against Herat province. winning the maiden test match constantly slated for his as Afghanistan is looking to ACB and the incumbent effective and useful for the team insurgents in different area of Similar, eight militants were against Ireland in March this year. performance but praised for escape from the last place. South Afghanistan ambassador to and Afghan cricket. These Ghazni, Zabul, Takhar, Farah, killed, three wounded, 59 However, recent happenings captaincy skills by the Afghan Africa – similarly having lost Pakistan, Atif Mashal, has been disputes and division of team Herat Helmand, Maidan Wardak, strongholds of the enemy with 34 within ACB and the team are quite nation,was removed in April this three matches so far – is also re-appointed as a key board players aren’t a good omen for Paktika, Kunar, Kapisa, Balkh, mines and some other ammunition worrisome and considerable. year as captain of Afghanistan eyeing turnaround. Meanwhile, member in the ACB.Mashal was Afghanistan. Otherwise, it Sar-e-Pul, Kunduz, Ghor and destroyed in Nahr-e-Saraj, Political patronage makes its national cricket team just over a Afghanistan wicketkeeper, dismissed during disputes with would be a shame if players rise Kandahar provinces. Sangeen and Garmsir districts of way into Afghan cricket month before the ICC Men’s Mohammad Shahzad, has been Afghan players but nonetheless, and strike, eventually leading to The statement said that in Helmand, three insurgents were Despite being a fast achiever, Cricket World Cup 2019.This ruled out of the World Cup due he is back in a new capacity. chaos. these operations 82 militants killed two wounded in terwee there are several issues hindering abrupt change came as Asghar, to an alleged knee injury and Earlier, Hekmat Khalil Karzai, Cricket is the only sport in were killed and 23 others district of Paktika and three rebels the team’s performance now. who replaced Mohammad Nabi as replaced by 18-year-old Ikram Sayed Mansoor Naderi, Eklil Afghanistan which brings sheer wounded. were killed in Jalriz district of Already losing to three countries captain in 2015, had a highly Alikhel in the team. Hakimi, and Ahmad Shah Sangdel joy for people and it shouldn’t Afghan forces arrested nine Maidan Wardak province. in the current World Cup, Afghan successful stint in the role. Under However, Shahzad insists were the high members of the ACB. be politicized like that. I strongly militants during operation and In past 24 hours, 15 planed team is now under deep pressure his leadership, Afghanistan he’s fully fit and slams ACB’s Now this situation worries suggest that the government handed over them to judicial clearing operations, and 81 Special – all because of the recent became a Full Member of the ICC, decision. He says I am fully fit people. Everyone trying to drag stoutly look into these issues and organs for further inquiry. Forces operations conducted in tensions – and needs the nation’s and in March, they secured a and that his underperformance in own kin and relatives into the it shouldn’t let cricket plunge Afghan National and different provinces; also, Air support to help increase their historic maiden Test victory the first two matches in the cricket sphere and these power into the dark politics of nepotism Defense Security forces shelled forces conducted 129 aerial morale.To put it frankly, this against Ireland in Dehradun, World Cup couldn’t be a justified struggles and favoritism don’t and favoritism. If there are plots and bombed the enemies’ operations supporting Afghan sport is also on its way India. Surprisingly,there are reason for his removal because bode well for the future of cricket. being made by players or ACB, positions and sanctuaries by National army including 17 ofindulgingin its fair share of unrevealed happenings behind he had good performance prior Shahzad makes an analogy of they should be independently artilleries and air forces. strikes on enemy’s sanctuaries. political patronage. Nepotism is Asghar’s dismissal. There are to that against Scotland and Afghanistan with Kenya and investigated and the system of During these operations in ANA discovered and a potent force if used politically, rumors on social media that Ireland. “If they don’t want me threatens that Afghanistan cricket, merit be ensured in the team in the past 24 hours, 29 Taliban confiscated weapons and for which Afghanistan is Asghar during his captaincy once to play, I will quit cricket,” an if continued this way, would face order it remains the source of fighters were killed, two arrested ammunition in the operations as notorious. But unfortunately, joked around with his team fellows emotional Shahzad was reported the fate of Kenya – from being an Afghans’ pride and joy. and five vehicle of the enemy well. ANA as the nation’s defense now it has entered into the field about soon replacing Fazli. But to have told local media after ICC full-membership country into The author of this article is a destroyed in Andar, Giro, Waez, forces are ready to give sacrifice of sports as well. when this talk leaked out and returning to Kabul.A picture of nothing due to internalquarrels. freelance Afghan journalist and Muqor and center of Ghazni, 14 to bring lasting peace and security The recent developments and reached the chairman, he set out Shahzad’s weeping face going As for Kenya’s case, there writer. He has previously worked insurgents were killed and two to the people and are determined sweeping changes in ACB and on conspiring to dispose of Asghar viral on social media aroused were on-field and off-field setbacks at Pajhwok Afghan News (PAN). others arrested in Mizan district to eradicate terror groups in team squad portray this as captain. mixed reactions – when he was that concluded in its failure and Alami is pursuing his bachelor’s of Zabul, 11 rebels were killed, Afghanistan. perspective well. Not going so far By replacing Asghar, sent back to Kabul to rest. Afghanistan could be partly degree at the American back, the so-called reforms Afghanistan have, instead, opted Shahzad says that there are some compared to it – given the recent University of Afghanistan. He initiated with the appointment of for split captaincy, with Gulbadin accusations against him such as occurrences – except for the can be reached at Rahmani vows to defend Azizullah Fazli in September Naib instated at the helm in one- that he doesn’t play honestly match-fixing practice which might [email protected]. his election as Taliban dig trenches on Billions of dollars smuggled to vital highway: Faryab... Parliament speaker Iran through official channels ...P1 candidate, but 244 MPs issue entails the majority of those ...P1 and eventfully to the capital movement and the deployment of cast their votes at the end of present, therefore, the majority Kabul. the security forces. But the Taliban voting. shall be determined on the basis ...P12 of Afghani value has made history in the last decade. Following the rise of dollar exchange rate with Based on the last quorum, of the ballots used. Rahmani told Mohammad Yousuf, a local neither confirmed nor rejected the Afghani, the price of primary food goods went high dramatically in the country. However, the United taxi driver, said trenches as deep destruction of the road. 123 votes were needed for a TOLOnews that he is the winner States’ renewal of sanctions on Iran is having an unintended knock-on effect on Afghanistan. The Afghani winning candidate but the missing of the voting based on the as two meters were dug in the Social activist in Faryab currency is taking a beating as dollar smuggler rush to provide much-needed dollar to the Iranian economy. streets. “The Taliban destroyed province called on the Taliban and votes from the total 247 MPs principles of the Wolesi Jirga, the our roads; we are workers and use the government forces to protect turned the process controversial. Lower House of the Parliament. the roads.” public interest projects, including 20,000 cases of cancer recorded last year: MoPH Rahmani got 124 votes and was “I will not step down from Local officials confirmed the roads. The widespread battle declared as the new speaker of my post,” he reiterated. Taliban dug trenches in the roads. between the Taliban and the the parliament, but the decision “I have been asked to step “The Taliban have destroyed government forces led to the ...P12 in Afghanistan. Currently, He called running of the patients, he mentioned. was opposed by Rahmani’s rival, down. I will not do this at any parts of roads that locals use destruction of roads and streets 30,000 to 40,000 people are aforementioned symposium a step Likewise, legislator Shinkai Kamal Nasir Osuli, an MP from cost. In the last 16 legislative terms daily,” provincial police across the country. Reportedly, the suffering from cancer through the to boost up awareness among people Karokhil who had earlier treated Paktia, who got 55 votes. of the parliament, I am the only spokesman Abdul Karim Youresh Taliban dig hole in the street to country, he added. Abdominal, about cancer. Lack of awareness her breast cancer, termed running Article 71 of the principles speaker in Afghanistan’s Wolesi said. plant Improvised Explosive intestine, mouth, prostate in men about cancer signs and the way of of such symposiums vital in of the parliament states that Jirga who has been elected as He said that the Taliban Devices for ambushing the and breast cancer are the most treatment is the main factor behind increasing wariness among based on the provisions of the speaker through voting,” said destroyed the road to block the government forces. prevalent cancer case, he noted. progress of the disease among people about cancer disease. Constitution, the approval of an Rahmani. (TOLONews) MONDAY . JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

Sources said another meeting on the Afghan peace will be held in Norway after Doha talks.

The win meant Afghanistan are through to the quarter-finals and will face host Iran on Sunday for the battle of the top spot.

when Leo Chow Ka Lok headed a kick-in into the penalty area, where Wong Wai Kwok was waiting, but the forward failed to keep his shot down as it deflected off the top bar. Abdul Razaq Momrak’s side showed their set-piece prowess in the 20th minute, when quick one-touch passes led to Sadiq Zaheri tapping in his first goal of the tournament, with Seyed The seventh round of the peace Wahid Muzhda, a Kabul-based meeting. But, according to Hosseini Mousavi claiming the talks between the US negotiators political analyst. political analyst Nazar assist. Ali Arab Zada got into the and the Taliban members in The peace talks have been Mohammad Motamaeen, the goalscoring action two minutes Doha, Qatar, will take place next faced with many deadlocks over Taliban has decided not to attend into the second half, when he week, sources said, predicting the past seven months since the meeting due to the possible sprinted down the left flank that this time, the two sides will Khalilzad started his efforts on presence of the two key officials. before letting loose an agree on one or two of the four behalf of the US government. Despite that, Khalilzad said unstoppable strike that found the key issues under debate. The US However, last time in May, in a tweet on Friday that Norway back of the net to make it 3-0. forces withdrawal from Khalilzad said the talks are has a long-standing history in Hong Kong’s campaign now Afghanistan, counterterrorism making “slow” but “steady” helping Afghanistan and great hung in the balance as they trailed assurances, a ceasefire and direct progress. expertise in facilitating by three goals, which forced them talks between the Afghan Khalilzad arrived in Kabul negotiations. The US envoy said out of their own half and press government and the Taliban are last week and since then he has that intra-Afghan peace the issue. Mousavi, who was the main key issues which have held consultations and talks with negotiations could benefit from Afghanistan’s U20 National much Law could have done with a firm right-footed shot. Afghanistan’s top scorer in the been under debate in the six rounds Afghan government leaders and Norway’s support. Futsal Team strongly started the against the non-stop Afghan Hong Kong were reduced to Central Zone Qualifiers, had a of the negotiators between US members of the civil society, the The Taliban’s willingness and AFC Futsal Championship in attacks as the Central Asians long range throws, but Afghanistan taste of glory with a goal of his chief negotiator Zalmay youth and women. refusals on attending meetings on Iran and defeated Hong Kong 6-1 broke the deadlock through reacted quickly to deny them. own after side-stepping two Khalilzad and Taliban members. Sources said that another peace has created doubts among in their first match. Hong Kong Mojtaba Mohammadi’s effort in Afghanistan kept the pressure Hong Kong players outside the Analysts familiar with Doha meeting on Afghan peace will be critics and some lawmakers, who bow out from the tournament. the sixth minute. Haid Reze on, and it almost paid off in the box in the 36th minute, before talks and the peace process said held in Norway after the US- say the group does not seem Afghanistan was in total Hossaini beating Hong Kong the 17th minute when Mohammadi doubling his personal tally a the Taliban will be given “a Taliban talks in Doha. “interested in peace”. control in the opening minutes, keeper from a tight angle but his intercepted a back-pass before minute later from the same number of privileges” in this Reports indicate that the “So far, the Taliban has not as they forced Hong Kong strike deflected off the post, but sending it to Hassan Ali Jafari, but position. Afghanistan will face round of the talks. former spy chief and a vice accepted democracy and they have goalkeeper Justin Law Ho Yeung with Law out of position and the his close-range attempt was denied Iran in their second match on “The Americans have decided presidential candidate Amrullah not shown any green signal to an into early action, but the East goalmouth left unguarded, by the custodian’s boots. Sunday night and the match will to give the Taliban some Saleh and head of President end in the war or to a ceasefire,” Asian defence held firm. Mohammadi latched onto the The East Asians gave kick off at 7:30pm Kabul time. privileges to take the negotiations Ghani’s office, Salam Rahimi, an Afghan lawmaker Abdul Rauf However, there was only so rebound and made no mistake Afghanistan a scare a minute later, (TOLONews) out of the current situation,” said have been invited to the Norway Inami said. (TOLONews)

FIROZKOH : A number of KABUL: Afghan women have Afghanistan middle-order batsman Hashmatullah Shahidi women in Firozkoh, the capital of been in deep trouble due to lack thinks that batting is the main concern for Afghanistan in western Ghor province, complain of security, education and forced this year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 and if they about lack of market for their marriages, a recently survey handicrafts, saying no attention to says. The survey conducted by overcome it they can beat any team on their day. the issue has eroded women’s the Provincial Women Network interest to attend vocational interviewed 300 women in 38 programs. districts and 15 provinces Ghor women say they have across the country. great achievements in handicrafts Sahar Guwhar, member of but lack of market for their the network, told reporters in products has confronted them with Kabul that lack of security, problems. Tajor Azizi, who has education and forced marriage been attending an embroidery were major concerns of Afghan course provided by the Labor and women. Social Affairs Department over the She said women were last three months, said she was not interviewed face-to-face in the hopeful about her future and might home-to-home survey across not help her family economically. the country. “I am working in embroidery supporting organizations in Ghor department, confirmed women’s She said unemployment, mentioned ministries had assured section over the last three months expressed concern over poor problems in the province and said violence and misbehavior were them of taking measures to resolve and I have developed the skill, but economic situation and lack of his department was providing other concerns among the gender. women’s problems. I know I will be jobless after my market for women’s handicrafts educational training to dozens of The women interviewed Latifa Sultani, Women graduation because there is no in the province and said women annually. However, he also complained about police Independent Human Rights market where I will be able to sell remoteness of areas, impassable said the number of women behavior and said they were Commission’s director, confirmed “We collapsed against Sri Lanka match against England the pitch my products,” she said. Sahar, a routes, lack of income source and attendees of such programs had misbehaved while registering challenges being faced by women and New Zealand, losing wickets will be better for batting. trainer at the program, confirmed government’s negligence were lately decreased due to lack of complaints with police and thus and said women even in urban in a short space of time. We lost “The way Imran Tahir women evinced little interest in among women’s huge problems. market for their products. He females who are victim of parts of the country were deprived four wickets in two overs here. bowled, he took a wicket with such vocational courses due to lack Farida Naseri, in charge of said he had discussed creating jobs violence fear referring to judicial of their due rights. We began well however we lost the absolute first ball. The wicket of market for their handicrafts. “I women’s affairs in the Ghor for women and market for organs, she added. She said another survey done wickets rapidly, that was the was difficult for batting, 250 or personally make dozens of Human Rights Commission, also women’s handicrafts with a She further said after by the Afghanistan Independent main reason behind the losses,” 260 was a decent target. Yet, we handicrafts, I keep them in my said outdated traditions, lack of number of relevant organs. Wahid completion of the survey they Human Rights Commission he added. Afghanistan were didn’t accomplish that. All things home because there is no market women’s access to work, market, said currently 210 men and shared the women’s concerns (AIHRC) in 2018 showed 261 bowled out at just 125 runs in their considered, we have five matches for selling them, this situation has low literacy and government’s women trainees were busy with the ministries of women women were murdered, half of last match yesterday on June 15 and we will now go and try. forced women to avoid vocational inattention to establish market for learning skills in tailoring, affairs, hajj and religious affairs them over honor. at the Cardiff Wales Stadium and “I trust the following courses,” she said. Ghor women women’s handicrafts were embroidery, gold-work, and interior affairs, the public She said women availed later lost the match by a big matches will be useful for the have asked the government and reasons that women faced more electricity, mobile phone repair health and the Independent limited access to justice and their margin of 9 wickets. The 24-year batting. We are committing little women’s support organizations to problems. On the other hand, and other areas in Firozkoh, Election Commission in order to participation in important old Shahidi said the pitch wasn’t errors, we need to learn from help them address their problems. Fazalulhaq Wahid, director of Dawlatyar and Tolak districts of address them. national process was not as big as that good and he expected the next them. Meanwhile, women’s rights Labor and Social Affairs the province. Gowhar said all the should be.

The distribution process of Saffron bulbs among local farmers kicked off in Balkh province of Afghanistan on Saturday. The Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) Nasir Ahmad Durani formally launched the distribution of Saffron bulbs during his visit to Balkh. Mr. Durani also launched the distribution process of other equipment which are needed for the cultivation of Saffron. The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) in a statement said Saffron plants are being cultivated in 350 acres of land in Balkh. The statement further added that the ministry has stepped up efforts to further expand the Saffron fields in this province. The ministry also added that the Saffron harvest reached 140 Meanwhile, the Ministry of predicts that the Saffron harvest kilograms in 2016 which increased Agriculture, Irrigation and will reach to 300 kilograms this year. to 200 kilograms in 2018. Livestock said the ministry (KP) MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES Bilawal arrives at Jati Umra for meeting As many as 53 children, with acute encephalitis syndrome like symptoms, with Maryam were admitted to two hospitals in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur on Saturday.

The toll from acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) in Bihar reached 65 on Saturday. Of these, 55 deaths have been reported from Muzaffarpur’s Sri Krishna Med- ical College and Hospital (SK- MCH) and 10 from Kejriwal Maternity Clinic (KMC), a pri- vate hospital. SKMCH’s medi- cal superintendent, Dr SK Shahi, confirmed the deaths of eight more children on Saturday. So far 55 children had died at the hos- pital, he added. As many as 53 children, with AES like symp- toms, were admitted to the two hospitals on Saturday. These children were brought from vari- ous parts of the district as well as adjoining East Champaran, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) ers was ‘inevitable’. In response West Champaran, Sitamarhi, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zard- to a query, Maryam tweeted that Sheohar, Vaishali, and Samastipur ari arrived at the Sharif family’s the decision to invite the PPP districts. District authorities said Jati Umra in Lahore on Sunday chairman had been made after the that the children were suffering afternoon. The PPP leader’s visit approval of her father and former from high and irregular fever, comes on an invitation from Pa- prime minister Nawaz Sharif and vomiting, seizures, and acute kistan Muslim League-Nawaz uncle and party president Sheh- headaches. Bihar’s principal sec- (PML-N) Vice President baz Sharif. She added that senior retary (health), Sanjay Kumar, Maryam Nawaz, and the meet- leaders of the party had also been and other health department of- ing appears to be an expression taken into confidence. “Discipline ficials visited SKMCH on Satur- of solidarity in the wake of re- and party hierarchy are followed day to review the situation. Ku- cent arrests of former president by all [members] including me,” mar checked paediatric intensive care units, with a team of enceph- are multiple factors behind the ly to help the medical team at Bihar is facing an intense heat Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), ac- Asif Ali Zardari and Punjab’s she wrote. Last month, the PPP children falling sick from the viral SKMCH. An advisory issued by wave. cused the state government of opposition leader Hamza Sheh- chairman hosted an iftar-dinner in alitis experts and later held dis- cussions with the attending doc- disease broadly named AES,” Ku- the state health department said The health department also asked being in a “state of oblivion” over baz. Close associates of the two Islamabad for Maryam and other mar said. “It is high time research- children between 1 and 15 years people not to give lychee to chil- the outbreak. An RJD delegation, leaders are also attending the meet- PML-N leaders including Hamza tors. Kumar told journalists that a seven-member central team, ers did an in-depth investigation were susceptible to AES and dren. It also said that if a child led by state party chief Ram ing. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Shehbaz, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, for ascertaining the causes behind Japanese encephalitis and time- has eaten lychee during the day, Chandra Purve, also visited SK- Chaudhry Manzoor, Hasan Mur- Pervaiz Rashid and Ayaz Sadiq in which was monitoring the AES outbreak in Bihar, was yet to as- the AES outbreak,” he added. Five ly treatment was the best way then it should be ensured that MCH on Saturday, and met the taza and Mustafa Nawaz a gesture aimed at displaying a nursing staff members and a team to deal with them. It said that the child gets a healthy meal be- families of the patients and doc- Khokhar are accompanying Bila- united front against the ruling Pa- certain the reason for the spread of the disease. “The central ex- of doctors being sent from gov- the disease had spread because fore going to sleep. tors of the central team. wal. The PPP delegation was re- kistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). ernment hospitals in Patna are like- of excessive heat and humidity. Bihar’s main opposition party, (Hindustan times) ceived by Maryam, former Sindh The guest list had representatives perts are of the view that there governor Muhammad Zubair, of other parties including Maula- Marriyum Aurangzeb, Capt (retd) na Fazlur Rehman of the Jamiat Safdar, Ayaz Sadiq, Pervaiz Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) and Rohingya crisiscan destabilise Rasheed and Rana Sanaullah. Aftab Khan Sherpao of the Qaumi Saudi Arabiaextradites Bilawal and Maryam will discuss Watan Party (QWP). PPP leaders the ongoing political and econom- including Asif Ali Zardari, Sherry region if not solved: Bangladesh ic situation of the country, accord- Rehman and Raza Rabbani were ing to leaders from both parties. also present on the occasion. The Sri Lankanslinkedto They added that though meeting PML-N delegation, in theory, was President Abdul Hamid had no formal agenda, political headed by the party’s Senior Vice discussion between the two lead- President Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. Easter attacks COLOMBO — Five Sri Lankans where NTJ leader Zahran Hashim wanted in connection with the had his base. Interpol Secretary Easter bombings that killed 258 General Juergen Stock said: "the Riseinmercury people were arrested in Saudi arrest and extradition of one of the Arabia and extradited on Friday, key suspects in the Sri Lanka police and Interpol said. "One of bomb attacks is an important step the alleged ringleaders in the April in the ongoing investigation." level affectsnormal 21 bomb attacks in Sri Lanka has It is the second time that suspects been arrested following the pub- had been arrested abroad in con- lication of an Interpol Red No- nection with the attacks against tice," the international police or- three churches and three luxury lifeinTarai districts ganisation, based in the French hotels in the country claimed by city of Lyon, said in a statement. the Daesh group. Last month, With the rise in mercury level, According to Gaur Municipality A so-called "red notice" is a re- army chief Mahesh Senanayake life has been hit hard in Rautahat. Education Committee Coordinator quest to law enforcement world- said two suspects were arrested While people have stopped com- Ganesh Giri, the municipality has wide to locate and provisionally in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. He did ing out of their homes, market- directed all schools within the arrest a person pending extradi- not disclose the nationalities of the places wear a deserted look dur- municipality to run morning class- tion, surrender, or similar legal suspects, but official sources said ing the day.The district recorded es up to 10:30 am until June 21, to action. Interpol identified the al- they were Sri Lankans. the highest temperature of 44 de- avoid the sweltering heat. The rise leged ringleader as Mohamed Sri Lankan authorities have arrest- gree Celsius today. in mercury level has also affected Milhan, a senior leader of the ed just over 100 people who had Few people were seen walking water sources which are reported- National Thowheeth Jama'ath links with the NTJ and its leader Bangladesh President Abdul Ha- ian catastrophe of unmanageable camps in Rakhine since violence around in the sweltering heat, in ly drying up. Meanwhile, life in (NTJ) militant group which was Hashim who was one of two sui- mid on Saturday said the Ro- magnitude," he added. swept the area in 2012. The un- the district headquarters. Fre- other districts in the central Tarai, held responsible for the April 21 cide bombers who attacked the hingya crisis can destabilise the "Asian security is vulnerable as rest prompted thousands of mi- quent load-shedding and lack of including Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, bombings. The "29-year-old Sri Shangri-La hotel in Colombo. Sri entire region if left unresolved. irregular migration, drug traffick- norities to flee Myanmar by sea. rainfall have affected life. High Mahottari and Dhanusha has also Lankan national, wanted on Lanka has been under a state of Addressing the 5th Summit of ing, territorial claims, ethnic con- The exodus peaked in 2015 when temperature has caused crops to been affected by the sweltering charges including terrorism and emergency since the attacks which Conference on Interaction and flicts, separatism, economic an estimated 25,000 people wilt in fields. The sharp rise in heat. Meanwhile, schools in Bara murder, was today extradited to also left 45 foreign nationals dead Confidence Building Measures in problems and climate change are crossed the Andaman Sea for temperature has resulted in vari- are to close from June 16 to 21 to Sri Lanka, along with four other and wounded nearly 500 people. Asia (CICA) at Dushanbe, the visible here. To address these cru- Thailand, Malaysia and Indone- ous diseases, with an increasing avoid the excessive heat. Citing suspects, following their arrest There have been recriminations capital of Tajikistan, Hamid cial challenges, CICA needs to sia, many drowning in unsafe and number of patients visiting health difficulty of running classes due in the Middle East", the state- over the failure on the part of po- stressed the importance of a enhance its capacity through overloaded boats. According to facilities in the district. Accord- to the high temperature, both gov- ment said. Sri Lankan police had lice and security forces to act on peaceful resolution of the Ro- promoting the concept of indi- Amnesty International, more than ing to the district hospital, most ernment and private schools across said earlier that the five suspects advance warnings of the impend- hingya crisis, Dhaka Tribune re- visible security," the President 750,000 Rohingya refugees, most- of the patients suffer from diar- the district will observe a week- were taken into custody in the ing attacks. Top intelligence and ported. The President also was quoted as saying. Rohingya, ly women and children, fled My- rhoea and fever. “Every day, 40 long closure at the request of guard- Saudi city of Jeddah and then ex- police officers have told a parlia- sought support and cooperation who belong to the Rakhine state anmar and crossed into Bang- to 50 patients arrive seeking treat- ians and parents. The decision was tradited back to Sri Lanka. mentary panel investigating secu- from CICA partners so that the in Myanmar, have been facing ladesh after Myanmar forces ment for diarrhoea and fever,” said taken formally by a meeting of the Police spokesman Ruwan Gu- rity failures that the attack was forcibly displaced inhabitants of extreme persecution by authori- launched a crackdown on the mi- Dr Rabindra Jha at the district District Education Coordination nasekera said Milhan was also avoidable had the authorities act- the Rakhine state can return to ties and majority Buddhists. It nority Muslim community in hospital. Similarly, the number of Committee at the District Admin- wanted in connection with a No- ed on intelligence provided by their homeland with "safety, se- has further prompted their flight August 2017. According to a UN snakebite cases has also gone up istration Office today. vember killing of two police con- neighbouring India. curity and dignity". over the years, many on rickety report, titled "Forced Migration due to increasing temperature. (AP) stables in the east of the island (AP) "The world knows Bangladesh boats that are mostly pushed of Rohingya: The Untold Experi- hosts 1.1 million forcibly dis- back into the open sea by coun- ence," around 18,000 Rohingya placed Myanmar nationals. You tries, especially Thailand and women and girls were raped by must be aware of the evidence of Myanmar. Myanmar's army and police and genocide and gross violation of Myanmar regards Rohingya as over 115,000 Rohingya homes Govt holdsall-partymeet beforeBudget human rights, which has been illegal migrants from the Indian were burned down and 113,000 termed a 'textbook example of subcontinent and has confined others vandalised. sessionwithkeybillsontheanvil ethnic cleansing' and humanitar- tens of thousands to sprawling (BBC) The government has plans to table a few bills in the Budget session of Parliament and needs the support of opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha where it still is in minority. FBR to be empowered to

A day before the budget session, an all-party meeting convened by raid suspected premises the government was held Sunday in which the opposition demand- The government has decided to through Finance Bill 2019. The clared gold and bearers securities. ed that issues such as farm dis- empower the Federal Board of amendments introduce various However, he said, FBR will not tress, unemployment and drought Revenue (FBR) to conduct raids changes to the legal framework exercise this authority as he has should be debated upon in Parlia- at the premises of those who are governing tax evaders, abscond- enforced a banned on raids. ment. Prime Minister Narendra allegedly involved in making il- ers, abettors, officials and indi- SBP turns down FBR request for Modi chaired the meeting, attend- legal wealth, storing undeclared viduals involved in malpractic- data of account-holders He said ed by representatives of all par- gold, jewelry, foreign currency es. Talking to Daily Express, there should be a provision in law ties, including Leader of Opposi- and bearer securities and to con- FBR Chairman Shabbar Zaidi so that it can be used whenever tion in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi fiscate these assets. For this pur- confirmed that by amending the the need arises. The government Azad, National Conference lead- pose, the government has pro- law, the body is being given the via Finance Bill 2019 has intro- er Farooq Abdullah and TMC posed several amendments to powers to carry out raids to con- duced a new sub clause 6A in sec- leader Derek O’Brien. Income Tax Ordinance 2001 fiscate illegal currency, unde- tion 175 of Income Tax Ordinance. The Prime Minister has called a meeting of chiefs of all parties having representatives in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on June Sri Lanka Tourism targets 80pc 19 to discuss “one nation, one election” issue, celebration of 75 years of India’s Independence in of last year’s arrival figures 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Sri Lanka Tourism is exploring tourism campaign targetting the ing such an event which is appro- Gandhi’s birth anniversary this the possibility of inviting global Indian market. priate at a time when the destina- year and issues of “aspirational celebrities for a mega event to be SLTBP Chairman Kishu tion has to be marketed vigorous- districts”, Parliamentary Affairs meeting, Azad said that all those He also called for early conduct that the Centre wants to run the held in Colombo shortly to pro- Gomes said there has been a re- ly. “The event is still at discus- Minister Prahlad Joshi said after bills which are in the interest of of Assembly elections in Jammu state through the Governor’s ad- mote the destination as a safe quest from the industry to hold sion stage,” Gomes said. the meeting. He said the PM has the people “we are not opposed and Kashmir, currently under ministration, he alleged. Con- place, a top official of the Sri such an event in Colombo to send Tourist arrivals in May had also called a meeting of MPs to to them”. There should be a dis- President’s rule, asserting that if gress’s Adhir Ranjan Choudhary Lanka Tourism Promotion Bu- out a clear message to the world dropped by around 70 percent discuss the issues on June 20. cussion on farmers distress, un- Lok Sabha polls can be held then and K Suresh were also present at reau (SLTPB) told journalists last that Sri Lanka is a safe place to following the Easter Sunday at- Speaking to reporters after the employment and drought, he said. why not state polls. It appears the meeting. week at the launch of a special visit. We will consider organis- tacks, SLTB data reveals. MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES News-in-Brief Erdogan sayshe US extends Iraq's waiver expectsdelivery on Iran energy of Russian S- 400s import The United States has granted to start in July Iraq a temporary three-month extension to buy electricity from Turkish President Recep Tayy- ish Foreign Minister Mevlut Ca- Iran. But after that, sanctions ip Erdogan said he expects Rus- vusoglu on Friday warned that imposed by the US against coun- sia to begin delivering the S-400 Ankara would respond if the US tries doing business with Tehran missile defense systems in the slaps sanctions on the country will kick in. first half of July, the Reuters over the plan to purchase the sys- Iraqis rely on Iran for vital sup- news agency reported on Sun- tem. “If the United States takes plies, but in the summer months, day, citing Turkey’s NTV. Tur- any negative actions toward us, even that is not enough. key’s push to buy the S-400 we will also take reciprocal steps,” Al Jazeera's Charles Stratford system has strained relations Cavusoglu said on the possibility reports from Basra. between the NATO allies, with of sanctions, according to a trans- the US worried it could give lation by Reuters of an interview Russia access to sensitive tech- that aired on Turkish TV. Cavu- Massive blackout nical knowledge if operated soglu said Thursday his country hits Argentina alongside its fighter jets. The won’t bow to “ultimatums” after country faces potentially crip- the US warned Turkey it could and Uruguay pling economic sanctions if it exclude it from the F-35 fighter jet goes ahead with the purchase. program over the purchase the A massive failure in the electrical “We discussed the S-400 sub- Russian defense system. interconnection system left Ar- ject with Russia. Indeed the S- US Acting Defense Secretary gentina and Uruguay without 400 issue is settled,” Erdogan Patrick Shanahan said in a letter power, according to reports on reportedly told journalists on his to his Turkish counterpart last local media. plane returning from a visit to week that the training of Turkish According to Infobae, an Argen- Tajikistan, where he met with pilots will end July 31 and that tinian website, the country has Russian President Vladimir Pu- Turkey wouldn’t be allowed to been in the dark for more than an tin. “I think they will start to take final possession of the four hour, and all trains are suspend- come in the first half of July,” F-35 aircraft it bought. Shanahan ed. US President Donald Trump he added. Russian President also warned that Ankara’s pur- has said the twin attacks had Iran Vladimir Putin, center, and Tur- chase of the Russian system could "written all over it", rejecting key’s President Recep Tayyip hamper America’s future relation- Tehran's vehement denial. Erdogan, left, arrive to attend the ship with Turkey, a NATO mem- Iranian Foreign Minister Moham- Tens of thousands of people ral- of mounting pressure, saying she though Lam, a pro-Beijing ap- who works in finance, told AFP. Conference on Interaction and ber which has been a critical US mad Javad Zarif tweeted that the lied in central Hong Kong Sun- had misjudged the public mood. pointee, offered a rare concession The international finance hub Confidence Building Measures partner and base for combat oper- US had "immediately jumped to day against a reviled extradition Throngs of black-clad protesters on Saturday, she stopped short was rocked Wednesday by the make allegations against Iran in Asia (CICA) in Dushanbe, ations, including the war in Syria. law, the latest huge demonstra- snaked their way through the city's of committing to permanently worst political violence since be- Tajikistan, June 15, 2019. Turk- (AP) without a shred of factual or cir- tion to pile pressure on the city's streets in dense crowds heading to scrapping the unpopular law. Her fore its 1997 handover to China cumstantial evidence". embattled leader, despite her the city's parliament -- a repeat of gesture was swiftly rejected by as tens of thousands of protest- weekend climbdown. The enor- a record-breaking demonstration a protest leaders who called on her ers were dispersed by baton- Algeria’s mous show of force saw protest- week earlier that organisers said to resign, shelve the bill entirely wielding riot police. Many plac- ers chanting "Scrap the evil law!" more than a million people attend- and apologise for police using tear ards in the crowd Sunday accused ex finance minister as they marched through the ed. Critics fear the Beijing-backed gas and rubber bullets earlier in police of using excessive force. Libyan officials faces corruption streets calling for the resignation law will entangle people in China's the week. "Personally I think she "You're supposed to protect us of chief executive Carrie Lam, notoriously opaque and politicised can no longer govern Hong Kong, not shoot at us," read one ban- investigation who paused work on the hugely courts and damage the city's repu- she has lost the public," Dave ner. divisive bill Saturday after days tation as a safe business hub. Al- Wong, a 38-year-old protester (PRESSTV) say Hifter’s Algeria's former finance minister Karim Djoudi appeared before the Supreme Court to face ques- tions about corruption accusa- forces fighting tions, state television has report- ed. He has not been charged but UK plansto deploy marines joins a series of senior figures as- sociated with former president Abdelaziz Bouteflika to face in- ISin south vestigations since protests broke to Persian Gulf: report Libyan officials say forces loy- not authorized to brief the media. out this year demanding the de- LONDON — The United King- behind the incident. One hundred Yet the British defense ministry drew from the nuclear deal last al to military commander Khal- The LNA media center said Fri- parture of the ruling elite and prosecution of former officials dom will send elite forces to the Royal Marines are expected to be sought to downplay the move, year and reimposed sanctions on ifa Hifter are pursuing Islamic day that the IS militants were re- linked to Bouteflika. State tele- Gulf of Oman to protect its war- deployed “within weeks” to join telling The Sunday Times: “This the country. In May, the U.S. State militants in the country’s sponsible for recent attacks in vision gave no details on Djou- ships amid rising tensions with naval ships operating from the is a pre-planned training deploy- cancelled waivers that had al- south, killing more than a dozen southern areas. di's case and his lawyer was not Iran, according to The Sunday U.K.'s new naval base in Bahrain, ment and is in no way related to lowed a small group of countries militants over the past three IS acknowledged the ongoing LNA immediately available for com- Times. The planned deployment The Sunday Times reported, cit- the ongoing situation in the Gulf to continue buying Iranian oil days. The officials said Sunday attack and claimed to have killed ment. follows Thursday's attacks on ing unnamed military sources. of Oman." Iran has denied any despite the reimposition of U.S. that the self-styled Libyan Na- and wounded dozens of LNA two oil tankers, which the U.S. The Marines will police the strait involvement in the oil tanker at- sanctions. In December, Iranian tional Army began its attack on troops. Hifter’s forces launched a has blamed on Iran. British For- from helicopters and smaller boats, tacks, but the U.S. claims it has President Hassan Rouhani had a militant hideout in the moun- military offensive in early April Saudi Crown eign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on in a “force protection” mission that video evidence proving Iranian warned that "if one day [the U.S.] tainous area of Haruj earlier this aimed at taking the capital, Tripo- Prince MBS warns Friday said the U.K. would make has been planned for several weeks forces were responsible. Tensions want to prevent the export of week. li, from a United Nations-aligned its own assessment, but believed due to rising tensions with Iran, between Iran and the West have Iran’s oil, then no oil will be ex- The officials spoke on condition but weak administration. against exploiting the U.S. claim that Tehran was according to the newspaper. soared after Washington with- ported from the Persian Gulf." of anonymity because they were (AP) Khashoggi murder

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Italyallows10migrantsto 10 killed in bin Salman (MBS) has warned Iransayswill takefurther stepsto against "exploiting" the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi for leaveGermanSea-Watchship northeast political gains, in what appeared Italian Interior Minister Matteo far-right League party, ordered Ital- reducenuclear dealcommitments to be a veiled attack on Turkey. Salvini on Saturday gave permis- ian law enforcement to prevent the Syrian wildfires: Turkey's ties with Saudi Arabia Iran said it would announce ad- sion for 10 migrants to leave the boat from entering Italian waters. ditional steps to reduce its com- have come under strain since the German Sea-Watch 3 rescue ship. Earlier in the week, his government brutal killing of Khashoggi last Monitor mitments under the 2015 inter- Among the 10 were two preg- adopted a decree that would force national nuclear pact, which October in the Saudi consulate in nant women, three minors and nongovernmental organizations to At least 10 people have been Istanbul, which tarnished the rep- killed in Kurdish-controlled Washington withdrew from last two sick men. The group was pay between €10,000 and €50,000 year, Tasnim news agency report- utation of MBS. Turkish officials allowed to disembark on the ($11,327 – $56,638) for transport- northeast Syria since Thursday were the first to report the mur- while trying to extinguish mass ed on Sunday. der and have continued to press Mediterranean island of Lampe- ing rescued migrants to Italian "Iran's Atomic Energy Organisa- dusa, which lies between the Ital- ports. Salvini's popularity has ris- wildfires that have recently Saudi Arabia for information on spread across thousands of acres tion tomorrow at the Arak heavy the whereabouts of his dismem- ian mainland and the North Afri- en over the last year after he adopt- water site will announce prepa- can coast. The Sea-Watch 3 res- ed a hard line against migrants, of farmland, a war monitor re- bered body, which has yet to be ported. The UK-based Syrian ratory steps that have been tak- found. "The death of Jamal cued more than 50 migrants drift- which includes closing ports to res- en to further decrease Tehran's Khashoggi is a very painful ing in an inflatable dinghy off the cue vessels. On Saturday, he an- Observatory for Human Rights commitments under the deal," crime," MBS told pan-Arab dai- coast of Libya on Wednesday, but nounced on Twitter that he had (SOHR) said in a statement that Tasnim said. ly Asharq al-Awsat in an inter- Italy's populist government did signed a decree banning the Sea- it had “documented the death of (AFP) view published on Sunday. not allow the ship to enter an Watch 3 from entering Italian wa- 9 persons including 5 citizens, a Italian port. Earlier on Saturday, ters. "I have just signed a ban on woman, 2 members of Al-Sana- the Italian coast guard had con- the entry, transit and berthing of did Arab Forces and a member of NATO faces big bill ducted a medical check on board, the Sea-Watch 3 in Italian territori- the Internal Security Forces if it fails to pick according to Sea-Watch spokes- al waters, as provided for by the (Asayish).” The SOHR said that man Ruben Neugebauer. The Security Decree," he wrote. Ora il those who perished had been try- Guatemalavotesfor new AWACS successor boat is currently waiting at sea documento sarà alla firma dei col- ing to extinguish fires in the coun- soon: Officials near Lampedusa. On Friday, sev- leghi ai Trasporti e alla Difesa: tryside of Al-Hasakah Province. eral German cities had offered to STOP ai complici di scafisti e traf- On Thursday, a member of the take in the migrants, but it is the ficanti! The decree still has to go president asgangviolencesoars A senior NATO official says the US-backed Syrian Democratic federal government that decides before Italy's parliament, where the Forces (SDF), which led the fight US-led military alliance would be Guatemalans will head to the attorney general and anti-cor- gust. Observers believe front-run- facing the unpleasant prospect of such matters. On Thursday, Sal- coalition government holds the ma- against the Islamic State in Syria vini, who is also the leader of the jority. with support. (AP) polls on Sunday to vote in a ruption advocate Thelma Al- ner Torres could lose the ru-off paying a significant bill if it failed crowded presidential election, dana, was barred from running due to Giamattei's potential to to come up with a successor to with nearly 20 candidates vying due to allegations of irregulari- unite the right. Around 40,000 its ageing fleet of AWACS spy for the office. ties during her stint as a public police have been put on alert, planes by around 2035. Brigadier Despite tens of thousands of prosecutor. She has fled to the while the military was deployed General Michael Gschossmann, H a m a s Ch ief vows to Guatemalans fleeing their coun- US, citing death threats. to safeguard key buildings across the NATO’s general manager for try to seek refuge in the US, mass Center-left candidate Sandra the country. Authorities have the agency in charge of the migration has not topped candi- Torres, a businesswoman and warned of possible outbreaks of AWACS surveillance aircraft in vestiga te r ocket la u n ch dates' platforms. Instead, cam- former first lady, is expected to violence in dozens of municipali- fleet, made the revelation in an paigning has been dominated by win the first round, with polls ties. interview with Reuters. Gscho- the themes of gang violence, pov- suggesting she could pick up Guatemalans will also be voting ssmann said he expected to final- Hamas politburo chief Ismail el. Haniyeh stressed that Hamas Dome system intercepted a rock- Haniyeh told the United Nations does not want the ceasefire deal et fired from Gaza and Israeli jets erty and corruption. more than 22% of the vote. Cen- in parliamentary and municipal ize by December a $750 million Guatemala has one of the highest ter-right candidate Alejandro elections. It also marks the first contract with US arms maker envoy for the Middle East Nick- reached with Israel to collapse. shelled an underground Hamas olay Mladenov that he did not Recent developments came at a facility in the southern Gaza homicide rates in the world, with Giamattei is expected to trail time that citizens living abroad are Boeing to extend the life of the 22.4 murders per 100,000 peo- behind with only 11%. allowed to vote, with polling sta- aircraft through 2035. Boeing will know who in Gaza was respon- time Hamas and other factions Strip. Tension in Gaza has risen sible for this week’s rocket fire threatened to escalate the situation as Israel imposed a naval block- ple. For citizens, ending gang vi- However, none of the 19 candi- tions set up across the US in Los also receive $250 million more olence and alleviating widespread dates are expected to gain Angeles, New York and Washing- earmarked for design. at Israel, sources reported. if Israel did not honor the agree- ade on the Gaza Strip. An army Haniyeh said the movement was ments. Israeli war jets raided Gaza spokesman said that in the wake poverty are a priority. enough votes to avoid a runoff, ton DC. investigating to know who car- Strip hours after a rocket launched of the firing of incendiary bal- One of the top candidates, ex- which would take place in Au- (AFP) Indonesia expects ried out the attacks, asserting that from Gaza slammed into a religious loons from Gaza, Israel imposed more foreign “no faction fired toward Israel” school, causing damage but no in- naval blockade on the Gaza Strip. in the past week. “We’re con- juries. The Israeli military said in a Over the past few days, many investment after ducting an investigation to find statement that fighter jets and oth- balloons were launched from the ratings bump out who fired,” Haniyeh told er aircraft attacked “several terror Strip towards the settlements in Heavystormskillat least twopeople Mladenov at the meeting in targets, including terror infrastruc- a clear shift in Hamas’ policy. JAKARTA -- Global investors are Gaza, adding that all Gaza-based ture in military compounds.” Hamas said that demonstrations increasingly eyeing Indonesia as factions had denied firing at Isra- On Thursday morning, the Iron would see escalations. inSwitzerland,France:Authorities a good place to park their mon- ey, a trend that may increase af- A woman has drowned in Lake storm had taken them "by sur- tion of the Bol d'Or, an annual re- ter S&P Global Ratings bumped Geneva when her sightseeing boat prise", Matta said. Three po- gatta on Lake Geneva, the event's up the Southeast Asian country's N in et een people k illed in B u r k in a sank as a violent storm battered lice boats and emergency services press service said. Heavy rain and sovereign credit rating. The raise parts of Switzerland on Saturday, rushed to the scene. Police strong winds lashed the partici- to BBB from BBB- on May 31 F a so, m a n y ch u r ch es r em a in closed police said. A man who was in divers later retrieved the wom- pants on Saturday afternoon, caus- comes on the heels of President the same boat was able to swim an's body from the lake. ing boats to capsize although no- Joko Widodo's reelection, The grip of Islamic militants on dozen armed men carried out an fire on locals on Sunday morn- to another vessel from where he The victim, whose nationality body was injured. prompting expectations that In- northern and eastern parts of attack on the district of Arbinda, ing. Before the attack three vehi- fired "two flares", said Joanna remains unknown, was then However, the storm broke the donesia will remain committed Burkina Faso is growing, accord- shooting several people dead,” said cles had been stopped and burnt Matta, police spokeswoman for taken to a hospital in Geneva mast of the ultra-fast "Real Team" to structural reform. Indonesia ing to Christian organisation, a local official who wished to re- and a driver killed. Burkina Faso the canton (region) of Geneva. where she was declared dead. catamaran, which had been in the logged a capital inflow of about The man told officers that the In a separate incident, the storm lead and was forced to pull out of 9.1 trillion rupiah ($6.37 billion) Open Doors. On Sunday 9th main anonymous. According to had been known for peaceful co- June at least 19 people died in the official, the attack took place existence between different reli- woman had been "passing also damaged some of the 465 the race. The bad weather struck from January till early April, through Geneva" and that the boats taking part in the 81st edi- western Switzerland. Mirza Adityaswara. another jihadist attack. “Several when a group of assailants opened gious and ethnic groups.

MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 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] In Afghanistan’s “Land of Light,” the Taliban-government Email: [email protected] war is as much personal blood feud as political conflict. www.afghanistantimes.af By Franz J. Marty Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi Nuristan means the “Land of Advisory editorial board Light.” But the poetically prom- ising name is fallacious as the peo- Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara ple in the center of Nuristan’s dis- trict of Waigal have not much, if Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir any, hope left. Almost complete- ly surrounded by Taliban, they Graphic-Designers: have their weapons always ready – especially at night, as even in Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada the “Land of Light” darkness falls Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: and fighters from both sides try to exploit its cover. Government Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 forces holding the line don’t be- lieve that the war in their valley Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan will ever end – even if current na- Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 tional and international efforts should result in a peace accord. Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press And this is only one of many such examples across the country. The ‘Land of Light’ Tucked away in the moun- The constitution says tains of eastern Afghanistan, Nuristan is arguably the most re- Article 119: mote of the country’s 34 provinc- Members of the Supreme Court shall take the following oath of office in the presence of the es. It’s so remote and difficult to President: “In the of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful, I swear in the name of God Almighty to access in fact that until the late attain justice and righteousness in accordance with tenets of the Holy religion of Islam, provisions of 19th century Nuristan was known this Constitution as well as other laws of Afghanistan, and to execute the judicial duty with utmost as Kafiristan – the “Land of the honesty, righteousness and impartiality.” Infidels” – as its people had re- Want, the center of the district of Waigal in the eastern Afghan province of Nuristan. The Taliban sisted outside control and still ad- reportedly use the higher ridges seen on the picture to frequently fire on Afghan government forces hered to an ancient animist reli- in and around Want. (April 25, 2019). Photo by Franz J. Marty. gion. This only changed in 1895, when the then-Afghan emir sub- ligence for cajoling locals with ernment forces also resort to sim- es,” Ehsanullah Ehsan, an Afghan dued Kafiristan, forcibly convert- false narratives of a holy war ilar tactics. “Every night, we lay researcher and journalist, stated. ed its inhabitants to Islam, and against infidels. This, however, ambushes in changing spots at Among several examples, he men- renamed it. Driving up toward as so often across Afghanistan, the mountain sides, lurking in the tioned that in some areas of the Waigal, one can well imagine why seemed to be rather a conspira- darkness, weapons at the ready,” northern province of Kunduz the Nuristan had not been conquered cy theory than a fact-based con- Boki said. “This way we pre- killing of countless people on both earlier. And why – apart from clusion. vent the Taliban from sneaking sides has led also locals there to some forays, including U.S. de- An officer in the Afghan down into the district center un- see the conflict more as a revenge- ployments to isolated outposts in National Army, who hails from der cover of night.” driven personal matter than an the years since the toppling of the the last reaches of Waigal, also “Yesterday night, we killed ideological war between the Tali- Taliban regime in 2001 – it has been mentioned sinister Pakistani in- one Talib and wounded another ban and the Afghan government. mostly neglected ever since. Want, fluence, but only as one among one in such an ambush,” Enayat- This was, according to Ehsan, the center of the district of Waigal several reasons. Some locals ullah alleged on April 25, “and openly acknowledged by com- in the eastern Afghan province of would join the Taliban due to this happens more or less every manders from both sides in Kun- Nuristan. While the lower valley personal animosities with peo- night.” Such claims of success duz. of the Pech river, located in neigh- ple linked to the government or could not be independently ver- This obviously poses a sig- boring Kunar province and along because they – as the government ified. However, at least in the nificant potential spoiler to any the way to Waigal, has a floor that has never been present in remote past the Taliban reportedly at peace efforts – no matter in which The US special envoy for Afghanistan, Dr. Zalmay Khalilzad is going to is wide enough to easily accom- areas – have to choose between times managed to get down to format and venue. This was also start the seventh round of peace talks with the Taliban in Doha next week, modate lush fields and a (by Af- the Taliban and complete law- the district center, as Boki had echoed by remarks of the U.S. media reports states. ghan standards) quite comfortable lessness, the officer said. Pover- earlier pointed out a spot on a Special Inspector General for Af- road, branching off from the Pech ty and the lack of employment sleepy path where three of his ghanistan Reconstruction All these four points are included, US forces withdrawal from Afghani- valley toward Waigal, it just takes would also play into it, he add- colleagues had been killed by an (SIGAR) pointing out that stan, counterterrorism assurances, a ceasefire and direct talks between a few minutes’ drive until the scen- ed. improvised explosive device. The “[a]ny political [peace] settlement ery changes. The valley narrows Although not explicitly only sign that still reminded of entails the risk that not all subor- the Afghan government and the Taliban. All these main key issues are down so much that only arduous- mentioned by locals, another the long-ago incident were three dinate groups will abide by an being discussed by two sides in previous couple of sittings, especially in ly built terraces are few meters apparently significant motive for simple pieces of cloth that are – agreement made by their organi- wide are arable. The road, now the Taliban affiliation of many in commemoration of the fallen zation’s leadership. Therefore, a prolong session at Doha Qatar. On concluding of his prolong session at unpaved and bumpy, at times Waigalis is a religious conviction. – tied to the branches of three insecurity could potentially per- Doha, Khalilzad has issued a statement, projecting his dismay over re- clutches to craggy cliffs. Above the Despite only a few generations separate trees in the vicinity. sist (…).” road, the slopes are bare rock, ago having been “infidels,” many Yet the locals let me move Whether or how such extreme luctance of Taliban even of declaring a brief ceasefire during Eid like of whose slick surfaces glisten in the Waigalis are now zealous Islam- around freely and even in the hostile attitudes can be overcome 2018. However, now Khalilzad is hopeful of some advancement as the sun and make one wonder where ist fanatics. This was confirmed mentioned outpost only half- is unclear. One way might be via analysts familiar with Doha talks and the peace process said the Taliban the low trees and few tufts of grass by one insurgent from Nangar- heartedly warned me to not stay the mediation of civilians that that sprinkle them find hold. har, who had some years ago for too long out of cover. This sug- know both sides – the government will be given “a number of privileges” in this round of the talks. “The The immediate surroundings a prolonged period lived among gests that Taliban fire and im- and the Taliban. Such civilians do Americans have decided to give the Taliban some privileges to take the of the soon reached district centre local militants in Nuristan. provised explosive devices are exist, including in Waigal. One old that is officially called Want (al- “They have all an al-Qaeda mind- not as dangerous as some of the man with a long white beard and a negotiations out of the current situation,” said Wahid Muzhda, a Kabul- though some locals assert that it set,” he said, using this descrip- policemen’s statements implied. weathered face who has lost one based political analyst. The peace talks have been faced with many dead- is vice-versa, i.e. the district being tion to point out that the This is not to say that the eye frequently goes back and forth named Want and the centre Waigal) Nuristani Taliban adhere to much Taliban don’t pose a serious from his house further up the val- locks over the past seven months since Khalilzad started his efforts on are again a little more accessible more extreme jihadi views than threat to Waigal’s district center, ley in Taliban territory to the dis- behalf of the US government. However, last time in May, Khalilzad said with a less steep hill side covered other Taliban rather than to im- though. Waigalis recounted that trict center, among other reasons the talks are making “slow” but “steady” progress. Khalilzad arrived in in fields. However, the towering ply that they are actually al-Qae- their district had several times for shopping, as there is no ba- mountains closing in from every da members. fallen to the Taliban in the past, zaar in the upper parts of Waigal. Kabul last week and since then he has held consultations and talks with side are an ever present reminder Whether or to what extent the last time in 2016. And there Similarly, but more peculiarly, Afghan government leaders and members of the civil society, the youth of the overall harsh terrain. this has been further fueled by have been some close calls since another man with clear blue eyes Further up the splitting val- fears of modern intrusions into then, with the next one maybe and a neatly trimmed white beard, and women. There are reports regarding willingness of Norway for host- leys the mountains get even high- their remote valleys is hard to around the corner, as the Taliban who works in the education de- ing an intra-Afghan dialogue session after the US-Taliban talks in Doha. er and steeper and the road much tell. The fact that quite a number reportedly intensified their fire partment of Waigal, also lives in a worse, locals assert. But this is of the pro-government Waigalis on the district center in the days Taliban-held area. In this respect, reports indicates that the former spy chief and a vice not the main difficulty that pre- in the district center seem to be following my visit before being “Going back and forth from presidential candidate Amrullah Saleh and head of President Ghani’s of- vents most people from ventur- into Western fashion, amongst pushed back again. the Taliban to the government fice, Salam Rahimi, have been invited. But, according to political analyst ing there. others stylish sunglasses, and Never-Ending Feuds? side is possible,” both stated in Surrounded by Taliban proudly recount their previous In any event, the conflict in separate conversations. Although Nazar Mohammad Motamaeen, the Taliban has decided not to attend the The Afghan tricolor flags fly- collaboration with U.S. forces Waigal has become so entrenched they don’t say so, this might be meeting due to the possible presence of the two key officials. Despite ing over a handful of outposts – may be a hint, though, that such that the Waigali policemen are partly due to their old age. At least nothing more than rudimentary fears – whether justified or not – convinced that it will go on for- according to the above-mentioned that, Khalilzad said in a tweet on Friday that Norway has a long-standing stone huts, perched on outcrops exist among some Waigalis. This ever. “The war here will never Afghan National Army officer history in helping Afghanistan and great expertise in facilitating negotia- in the slopes just over the district is certainly is not a fight against end. Even if the Taliban, the Unit- from Waigal, who hasn’t been able center – are as far as the Afghan outsiders, though, as virtually ed States of America, and the Af- to go to his birthplace for years, tions. The US envoy said that intra-Afghan peace negotiations could ben- government’s control reaches in everyone on the government side ghan government should reach a the Taliban would only harass and efit from Norway’s support. The Taliban’s willingness and refusals on Waigal. “Further up, all is full of in Waigal – from the police chief peace agreement, the fight in target (potentially) government- attending meetings on peace has created doubts among critics and some Taliban. During the past days and and district governor to the men Waigal would just go on,” Boki linked younger people, but more weeks they even took all the moun- holding the last outposts – is asserted when asked what he or less leave alone the elderly, even lawmakers, who say the group does not seem “interested in peace”. tain ridges around us,” Abdul from Waigal. thinks of peace efforts such as if they had some indirect connec- “So far, the Taliban has not accepted democracy and they have not shown Boki, a Waigali policemen, whose Guerrilla Warfare on Both the ongoing U.S.–Taliban talks. tion to the government. Confirm- simple house lies right at the bank Sides Enayatullah as well as his col- ing this, several policemen in any green signal to an end in the war or to a ceasefire,” an Afghan law- of the rushing river, said in late Whatever their reasons are, leagues in the outpost concurred. Waigal stated that their parents maker Abdul Rauf Inami said. This comes as President Ghani said at the April. The dull sound of an explo- the Waigali Taliban are dedicated Asked why this would be the are living in Taliban-held areas, but sion later in the afternoon and the to fighting their pro-government case, they refer to deep-rooted are not or at least not significant- Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan this week that faint smoke cloud caused by it, fellow Waigalis. “Every day, our personal enmity. “Almost every ly bothered by the Taliban. breakthrough in the peace process will take time. No one can undermine rising over a ridge in direct line of outpost comes under Taliban one of us has lost someone – a This does not mean, though, sight from the porch of Boki’s fire,” asserted Enayatullah, a father or a brother or someone that it is easy for the old men or external influence on Taliban, which is considered biggest hurdle in all house, corroborated his assertion. young policeman who – with 17 else – all killed by the Taliban,” others like them. “Of course it is efforts aimed at return of peace and tranquility in war-ravaged mother- “We sometimes shoot an RPG at colleagues – holds a desolate out- Enayatullah explained. “The Tal- difficult,” the education official land. The US Special envoy whenever landing in Afghanistan and Qatar them to try to keep the Taliban post in a side valley just above iban have once torched my house said. “There [in Taliban areas], off the ridge,” Boki explained, the district center. “Sometimes and I have lost everything,” Boki they accuse me of being a brother has always eyeing also on involvement of Pakistan and other regional and nonchalantly referring to a shoul- the Taliban use Dragunov [snip- mentioned another grievance. “I of the government and here in the neighboring countries. At the moment, Haqqani Network is considered der launched grenade. As not only er rifles], sometimes small or will never forgive them and fight district center they ask me, what Boki but also his little children did heavy machine guns,” he speci- them forever.” In a rare glimpse I am doing living in a Taliban area,” major force behind violence in Afghanistan, rooting in neighboring Paki- not even flinch at the sound, the fied. On the day of this author’s of empathy with his adversar- he explained. “They always sus- stan. It is the time for US to convince Pakistan for dislodging/preventing odd shot every now and then – be visit to the outpost, the bullet of ies, Boki then added that it is pect me, with either side accusing it from the Taliban or Afghan gov- a Taliban sniper had allegedly hit similar on the other side: “Some me of belonging to the other,” the all militant groups of conducting terror and violent acts in Afghanistan. ernment forces – is apparently the reinforced wooden roof of of us [government forces] have one-eyed man said, expressing the Key to resolution of Afghan conflict is resting with the external regional indeed more or less part of a nor- their living quarter, only crack- done the same [i.e. destroying same sentiment. Accordingly, they and neighboring countries, therefore, Khalilzad and rest of US and UN mal day in Waigal. ing, but not penetrating it. And a houses] to the Taliban and that’s seem to try their best to get in- Boki as well as other locals dent in one of the outer HESCO why also they won’t stop and volved as little as possible. But official needs to focus on cure of the illness already diagnosed. put the number of armed Taliban barriers was reportedly caused the war will never end.” even if they or others like them fighters in their district at 1,000 by an incoming RPG some time Who initiated these vicious should be willing to change that to 1,500. These are rough esti- ago. cycles of violence and when is and mediate, the existing suspi- mates at best and might well be “They fire on us from ev- impossible to determine. Given cions and accusations would draw exaggerated – all the more as it erywhere in the surrounding that in the “notoriously clannish, the chances of success into ques- Subscription Rates would be hard to see how the 250 mountains; taking some random fragmented and revenge-driven tion. Note: The following rates will apply from January 01, 2017. men of the Afghan National and position, shooting and right af- environment” of Nuristan feuds While this impasse might be Afghan Local Police in Waigal terwards often disappearing,” have been documented since at somehow overcome at some point Categories Fee would be able to hold such a su- Enayatullah added. Other sourc- least the time when it was still in time, at least for now the Waiga- Afghanistan Times perior force at bay. In any event, es also stated the Taliban do not known as Kafiristan, such enmi- lis are right — the war in this re- Annual Afg: 5400 all sources in Waigal agree that al- use any permanent positions or ty might date back long and mere- mote valley will not end any time at your door step most all Taliban in their district fortified outposts, apparently to ly be continuing in the guise of soon. For fast delivery service are locals. prevent becoming a target. the current Taliban–government Franz J. Marty is a freelance Six Months Afg: 2700 Afghanistan Times seeks the Asked why so many Waigalis While the use of such guer- incarnation. journalist based in Afghanistan. names, addresses of your join the Taliban, no one has a clear rilla techniques by the Taliban This unforgiving hatred be- He writes on a broad range of answer; many even none at all. One does not come as a surprise, in tween the warring parties is not topics, but focuses on security and International Organization $240 per year organizations and the number of copies you want. local government official blamed Waigal the usually more conven- limited to Waigal. “Such cases ex- military issues. You can follow the Pakistani Inter-Services Intel- tionally operating Afghan gov- ist in areas in almost all provinc- him @franzjmarty on Twitter. MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES Afghanistanisofficiallythemost dangerouscountryintheworld—more proof theUSwar therehasfailed Afghanistan is officially the least peaceful country in the world and the site of the most violent conflict, according to the Institute for Economics and Peace's annual report. Afghanistan replaced Syria as the least peaceful country, which Steve Killelea, the founder and executive chairman of IEP, attributed to the collapse of ISIS's territorial holdings in Iraq and Syria.

Given Afghanistan's complex web of conflicting interests, separate US and Russian efforts to reach an enduring settlement may not succeed. The five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council may need to reach a consensus among themselves and then implement a resolution aimed at stabilizing the country.

divide and rule – along ethnic, used for hostile action against the By: AMIN SAIKAL tribal, linguistic, and cultural US and its allies. But that pledge lines, and also involving corrup- is conditional on the withdrawal CANBERRA – In January 2018, tion and maladministration – has of all foreign forces from Afghan- Afghan President Ashraf Ghani prevailed. Behind a fig leaf of istan. And Khalilzad has been un- publicly admitted that without sham democracy, Afghanistan’s able to persuade the Taliban to American support, his govern- leaders have focused on build- recognize the Afghan government ment and the Afghan National ing personal power and influ- as anything other than a US pup- Army (ANA) could not last very ence at the expense of the na- pet and enter direct negotiations long. That remains the case to- tional interest. with it. day: the government is in disar- Unsurprisingly, therefore, Af- Meanwhile, Russia has pursued ray, and the ANA is barely hold- ghan governments since 2001 its own peacemaking initiatives ing out against the Taliban-led have been weak and almost en- for Afghanistan, hosting several insurgency. NOURIEL ROUBI- tirely dependent on US and al- multilateral meetings in Moscow lied support. As a result, Af- since late 2018. Participants have By Monish Tourangbam and executive chairman of IEP, told flicts in the region in the post-9/11 It's estimated the Taliban now NI Across the advanced economies, ghanistan has been vulnerable to included Taliban representatives, Nandita Palrecha INSIDER. This has contributed era. It's been waging war on some controls or contests roughly 61% predatory behavior by its neigh- Afghan dignitaries (led by Karzai, to a decline in violence in Syria. level in Iraq since 2003, conduct- of the country's districts as it monetary and fiscal policymak- ers lack the tools needed to re- bors – Pakistan in particular – who now criticizes the US for fail- But though ISIS is significantly ing drone strikes in Yemen against continues to carry out deadly at- and to regional rivalries and ing to bring stability and security As the US trudges toward the 19th spond to another major down- depleted, it is not totally defeat- al-Qaeda as it supports the Saudi- tacks— including recent inci- great-power competition. to Afghanistan), the country’s year of its war in Afghanistan, it's turn and financial crisis. Worse, ed and still has pockets of fight- led coalition against the Iran- dents that have claimed the lives The Afghanistan conflict is now immediate neighbors, and India. officially the most dangerous while the world no longer needs ers across the region as well as backed Houthi rebels, and fighting of US soldiers. deeply entangled with the In- The Ghani administration had country on the planet. to worry about a hawkish US fighters and followers in other ISIS in both Iraq and Syria. In 2018, 13 US service members dia-Pakistan dispute, the Iran- viewed these Moscow meetings Afghanistan is now the least Federal Reserve strangling parts of the world. Along these lines, INSIDER asked were killed in Afghanistan in a growth, it now has an even big- Saudi Arabia rivalry, the Paki- as contrary to its alliance with the peaceful country in the world, stani-Saudi strategic partner- US, but nonetheless found it ex- "As they've disbanded...their Killelea how responsible the US is conflict that's claimed the lives ger problem on its hands. replacing Syria, according to the ship, US-Iranian hostilities, Pa- pedient to permit Afghanistan’s members have now gone to oth- for the lower level of peacefulness of over 2,400 Americans. Mean- Yet US President Donald Trump 2019 Global Peace Index report understandably wants to disen- kistani-Chinese friendship, pe- ambassador to Russia to attend er places such as Afghanistan worldwide. while, a US intelligence official in riodic Indian-Chinese border the most recent gathering in late released on Wednesday by the where there are a rising number "The real issue is the inability to Afghanistan recently told The tangle America, if possible Institute for Economics and Peace through a political settlement, tensions, US-Indian camarade- May. But with the Taliban refus- of terrorist attacks being attrib- solve these conflicts once they Associated Press that ISIS is us- rie, and US-Russia competition. ing to agree to a ceasefire, let alone (IEP). Mohib Iqbal, a research fel- from what has become an unwin- uted to ISIS," Killelea added. start," Killelea said. "If we look at ing the country as a launching pad Afghanistan has become a zone settle other substantive issues, this low at the institute, told RFE/RL nable war. As such, the Taliban The good news in the report is Afghanistan that's been going 18 for attacks on the US and other of conflict within a region of meeting also produced no tangi- that Afghanistan "is now the and their supporters have no that the world has actually be- years now...and it's hard to see countries. them, each one posing yet an- ble results. Should US and Rus- world's most violent conflict with compelling reason to let the Af- come slightly more peaceful over- what the practical solutions can be "This group is the most near-term ghan government and the United other obstacle to a political set- sian efforts fail to produce a last- the highest number of deaths from all in the past year, but it also other than a peace deal with Tali- threat to our homelands from Af- States off the hook easily. And tlement. Recent US efforts at ing political settlement in Afghan- war and terrorism." reaching a political settlement istan, the five permanent members said global peacefulness is still ban." ghanistan," the official said of ISIS given the complex web of con- With the collapse of the Islamic have so far been unsuccessful. of the United Nations Security lower than it was a decade ago in Roughly 14,000 US troops remain and its growing presence in Af- flicting interests in Afghanistan, State group's (ISIS) self-declared The US Special Representative Council may need to reach a con- 2008. Conflict in the Middle East in Afghanistan while the US con- ghanistan. "The [ISIS] core man- separate US and Russian efforts caliphate and loss of territory in for Afghanistan Reconciliation, sensus among themselves and has been the key driver of the tinues to push for peace talks be- date is: You will conduct external to reach an enduring settlement may not succeed. the Afghan-American Zalmay then implement a resolution based Iraq and Syria, it's not as effec- global deterioration in peaceful- tween the Afghan government and attacks. That is their goal. It's just Khalilzad, who began his peace- on Chapter VII of the UN Char- tive a "fighting force as it used to Afghanistan’s problem is not pri- ness, according to the report. the Taliban, which are currently a matter of time. It is very scary." making mission last September, ter, concerning threats to interna- be," Steve Killelea, the founder and marily military. Despite the The US has been involved in con- stalled. (BBC) ANA’s heavy losses (more than has made little or no headway. tional peace. The goal would be 45,000 personnel since mid- Khalilzad has repeatedly to prompt Afghanistan’s neigh- 2014) and increased insecurity in claimed progress; in reality, he bors to cease proxy involvement the country, the army has man- is struggling to make headway in the country in support of rival aged to prevent the Taliban from through the Afghan and regional interests; to facilitate the orderly taking over any major city on a political thicket. withdrawal of US and allied forc- lasting basis. US funding of the Because of his own controver- es from the country; and to guar- ANA to the tune of some $4 bil- sial involvement in Afghanistan antee Afghanistan’s geopolitical lion per year, together with al- for more than three decades as a neutrality, from which the coun- lied operational assistance, has self-declared US neoconserva- try benefited before its current been crucial in this regard. tive, Khalilzad faces the mis- troubles began 40 years ago. Rather, the worsening security trust of many Afghan leaders, At that point, sufficient help and situation mostly reflects politi- including Ghani, and of govern- pressure will be needed to move cal and regional factors. For start- ments in the region. He has ex- Afghanistan’s leaders toward ers, Afghanistan has lacked the cluded Iran, one of Afghani- achieving a national consensus for By Rob Johnston leadership it needs ever since the stan’s influential neighbors, their own sake and that of the US-led intervention, initially un- from his consultation process. country. Unfortunately, this may Charl Langeveldt's laugh is quite der the post-Taliban administra- And he is viewed with suspi- not come soon enough for Afghan- something. It booms out at you, tion of President Hamid Karzai cion in Islamabad and Moscow istan’s suffering people. uninhibited and unexpected after (2001-2014), and subsequently as well, given his past anti-Pa- Amin Saikal, Professor of Politi- every few sentences. At one under Ghani’s current National kistan views and criticism of cal Science and Director of the point, Afghanistan's bowling Unity Government. The West Russia’s regional ambitions. Centre for Arab and Islamic Stud- coach struggles to get his words had hoped that these leaders The only concession that Kha- ies (the Middle East and Central out because he's laughing so hard, would strive to nurture national lilzad has thus far obtained from Asia) at the Australian National recalling the difficulty the play- unity, and seek to institutional- the Taliban – after meeting its University, is the author of Mod- ers had when trying to work out ize politics instead of personal- representatives several times in ern Afghanistan: A History of what strip they were playing Sri izing power in the country. In- Doha – is that the group will Struggle and Survival. Lanka on in Cardiff. "They stead, the traditional practice of not allow Afghan territory to be (project-syndicate) weren't sure. All of them looked the same. Green!" It's an infec- tious laugh, the sort that takes you with it so that you find your- Fire And Ice: Can Burning Ambition self laughing too. After three World Cup defeats from three so far, it's just the sort of positivity Afghan- Help Afghanistan Melt England’s istan need right now. After a de- cade of spectacular, rapid im- provement, Afghanistan are at an World Cup Hopes In Manchester? interesting moment in their devel- That's just experience. They are coaching style significantly. 72 ODIs for South Africa, aver- opment. Now a full Test nation, used to playing against Ireland, In South Africa, fast bowlers who aging less than 30 with the ball, By DAMIAN defined only by extremism and den. The likes of Joe Root, Jos they are expected to compete and Scotland." Against those teams, moved up to international cricket as well as six Tests. As a former violence. "Nobody even knew Buttler and Ben Stokes are cham- win but they are also still learning the players' natural gifts can get already had the basics and the un- fast bowler, he is pleased to see about cricket,” he said. “But the pions of cricket’s nobility and gi- the intricacies of life against the them over the line even if the derstanding. Langeveldt could the bouncer being used regularly 142 years of cricketing history boys who migrated started to ants of the modern era. Their mer- best countries in the world. For foundations of their games are not work with them on extras like vari- in this tournament, helped by will separate England and Afghan- learn about cricket because there ciless and poised brand of limited all the remarkable progress they as stable as they could be. ation and tactics. With Afghanistan fresh pitches with extra grass istan when the two meet in was nothing else in Pakistan. overs cricket is a product of a near- have made, they have played just Against the better international it has been different. With little which has provided more bounce Manchester on June 18 for game It's a game which you can play lifetime of coaching and quality 28 ODIs against the nine other teams, solid basics and clear first-class structure to speak of, than many were expecting. But 24 of the 2019 Cricket World in the street, that's how they got practice on world-class facilities. countries in this tournament. thinking are required too. he has had to drill the foundations as someone whose game was built Cup. England – cricketing aris- into this sport." Remember this: Rashid Khan – They have played England just "We haven't had enough top-lev- into the likes of Hamid Hasan and around smart and subtle varia- tocracy – are veterans of 1000 From the streets of Peshawar almost an entirely self-taught once, India and New Zealand only el cricket so when you get in that Aftab Alam himself. "These guys tions rather than searing pace, he's Test matches and 700 one-day and wastelands of Kabul to the cricketer – didn’t touch a real crick- twice apiece. Afghanistan are still situation with the bat, you say just wanted to bowl bouncers be- also interested in whether the internationals. By contrast, Af- manicured lawns of an English et ball until he was 14. wet behind the ears in top-level OK, he's bowling well, just see cause they played tape ball in Af- knuckleball appears more often ghanistan are the sport’s new World Cup. Against the odds, a England would do well not to see terms and their naivety is show- him off for a couple of overs," ghanistan and tape ball cricket is as the tournament progresses and kids on the block. After full mem- team of men who learned the Afghanistan as just a distraction ing. In their opening two games Langeveldt says. "For them it's bowl short, bowl fast," he says. the pitches get flatter. "It's a great ber status was awarded in 2017 game on the margins of Afghan- in what should be a procession to against Australia and Sri Lanka, see ball, hit ball. They think we "They've got natural talent but ball to have because sometimes by the International Cricket istan’s broken cities find them- the semi-finals of the tournament they were five wickets down with need to get runs on the board they need to be guided. Even the batsmen pick it up very late," he Council the first of their two Test selves the darlings of this tour- and beyond. But any team that the bat, reckless and free, for 57 now. No, it's a process. They've senior guys, they were all over the says. "It's still the same arm matches resulted in a crushing nament. Cricket is to the peo- has fought its way to the top level and 77 runs respectively. Against only just started playing four- show. It was bouncer, then they speed, you can't actually see the defeat against the might of India. ple of Afghanistan what boxing of sport in the manner this team New Zealand, they reached 66 day cricket. That's where your will try a yorker. It just comes down change in the bowler's wrist or The second, however, a win over has been to the slums and back- has, is one to respect when they without loss but then lost three basis for 50-over cricket comes to being able to bowl six balls in anything. It's just the grip that Ireland last year brought over- waters of urban America for de- are cornered. Afghanistan found wickets for no runs. Against Aus- from." Langeveldt joined Phil the right areas, ask good questions the bowler will change at the last whelming joy. Their journey of cades. The only way out. Its themselves at the top of the table tralia, they bowled 14 wides and Simmons' coaching staff early in of the batsman. "I had to go back minute." Alam, who took three acceptance from the sports es- players are now stars at home when the tournament started – al- then followed it up with 22 more 2018 ahead of the World Cup to basics. I went to the nets, put wickets against New Zealand, has tablishment was complete. Af- and abroad, their faces plastered beit only thanks to alphabetical against Sri Lanka. There have been qualifiers, turning down an op- cones on the side and said this is been working on a version in the ghanistan belong among cricket’s over adverts on billboards and ordering – but it was symbolic of individual glimpses of the abun- portunity at Leicestershire to re- the area you need to bowl in. They nets but hasn't yet nailed it elite, but this tie remains the crud- local television. The most sought the fact that they have climbed a dant talent they have but the col- main on the international scene. have improved but it's still a learn- enough to use it in a game. Any- est of sporting contrasts. Once a after of them is Rashid Khan, a mountain to get here. So far in this lective has been disappointing, a He spent two years as South Af- ing curve. They get hit for a bound- way, Langeveldt doesn't want to country without hope, Afghani- 21-year-old leg-spinning all- World Cup, however, they are stark reminder that for all their rica's bowling coach before that ary and they think they need to cloud the thinking of his bowlers stan’s national history is a joy- rounder who is the world’s best without a win. They will not progress, Afghanistan still have a and was excited at the talent Af- change up or knock the stumps with too much variation. Basics, less chronology of conflict, in- T20 bowler and the third best struggle for support. President long way to go. ghanistan possessed and the po- over instead of saying I'll go back basics, basics. stability and imperial rule. Crick- in one-day international crick- Ashraf Ghani is expected to cheer "We haven't managed to get all tential to learn a different culture. to my hard Test lengths again." "I've said to them we can't go there et has been its salvation. A sport et. Khan’s talents caught the eye his side on in Manchester, taking three departments well on the Already, he says it has been "an Afghanistan's seamers would be if we haven't perfected being able brought back by the Afghans who of the biggest T20 leagues in the a few hours out of an official state day," Langeveldt tells Cricbuzz. amazing journey" and one that wise to heed Langeveldt's advice. to hit six out of six in a good area," fled their homeland in the 80s and world in 2017 when he signed a visit to the UK. He’ll have com- "We start well with the bat and has taught him a huge amount. He knows what it takes to succeed he jokes. 90s for the refugee camps of US$600 000 contract for Sun- pany. Afghanistan’s first game of then we lose wickets in clusters. But he has had to adapt his at the highest level having played (BBC) northern Pakistan, cricket is a rises Hyderabad. It made him the tournament against Australia solitary symbol of national pride the league’s first Afghan player brought thousands of passionate for the country’s 35million peo- and Afghanistan’s greatest Afghan nationals living in the UK Disclaimer: ple. Former national team coach sportsman. out to support them. Thousands Kabir Khan once said the team’s His cricketing upbringing of dis- more are expected for the show- The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) players who had risen from noth- placement, street cricket and down with England. Afghan pres- ing were global ambassadors that tapped-up tennis balls could ident HE @ashrafghani to watch and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Afghanistan Times. offered a counternarrative to not be more different to the cricket match of the ongoing widely held perception of nation paths England’s stars have trod- @cricketworldcup between. MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES Why the S- 400 isa more formidable threat to USarms industry than you think Generally, when discussing air- mies and allies alike the belief that missed by a wave of cruise mis- defense systems here, we are re- US military hardware is unbeat- siles. To give two prime exam- ferring to Russian devices that able (with allies being obliged to ples that occurred in Syria in 2018, have become famous in recent buy said hardware) is central to latest-generation missiles were years, in particular the S-300 Washington’s strategies for war intercepted and shot down by (and its variants) and the S-400. and power projection. As clash- decades-old Russian and Syrian Their deployment in Syria has es between countries in such glo- systems. While the S-400 system slowed down the ability of such bal hot spots as the Middle East has never been employed in Syr- advanced air forces as those of increase and intensify, Holly- ia, it is noteworthy that the Ser- the United States and Israel to wood’s propaganda will increas- bian S-125 systems succeeded in target the country, increasing as ingly struggle to convince the rest identifying and shooting down an it does the embarrassing possi- of the world of the continued ef- American F-117 stealth aircraft bility of having their fourth- or ficacy and superiority of US during the war in the Balkans. fifth-generation fighters shot weapons systems in the face of There is a more secret aspect of down. Air-defense systems ca- their unfolding shortcomings. the S-400 that is little disclosed, pable of bringing down fifth-gen- The US finds itself faced with a either within Russia itself or with- eration aircraft would have a situation it has not found itself out. It concerns the S-400’s abili- devastating effect on the market- in over the last 50 years, namely, ty to collect data through its ra- ability and sales of US military an environment where it does not dar systems. It is worth noting hardware, while simultaneously expect to automatically enjoy air Department of Defense spokes- boosting the desirability and superiority. Whatever semblance man Eric Pahon’s alarm over Tur- sales of Russian military hard- of an air defense that may have key’s planned purchase of the S- ware. As I have often pointed hitherto been able to pose any 400: “We have been clear that pur- out in other analyses, Holly- conceivable threat to Uncle Sam’s chasing the S-400 would create wood’s role in marketing to ene- war machine was rudely dis- an unacceptable. G- 20 agreeson global framework toreduce

The RAND Corporation recent- intelligence branched lieutenant Extending Russia. Competing for the US itself. The economic marine plasticpollution ly published a document entitled colonel in the Army Reserve, from Advantageous Ground by section consists of four options Overextending and Unbalancing Raphael Cohen; and seven other the same authors. So what, ex- that Russia has already been di- The Group of 20 major econo- potentially on human health," sues, with the United States, Russia. Assessing the Impact of RAND researchers who special- actly, are these influential politi- rectly affected by in previous mies agreed Sunday on the cre- said a communiqué issued fol- which has announced its with- Cost-Imposing Options. The ise in international relations, the cal analysts suggesting to the years. The first of these is expand- ation of an international frame- lowing the meeting in the central drawal from the Paris climate ac- study is the collective effort of military industry, intelligence, pol- American establishment? Their ing the production and export of work that calls on members to Japan resort town of Karuiza- cord, refusing to endorse a com- experienced diplomats, including itics, and technology. It is a prac- full spectrum of operations is US energy resources, which would take voluntary steps to reduce wa. Japanese Environment mitment in the communiqué to cut former Assistant Secretary of tical recommendation for how the divided into four sections – eco- affect global prices and therefore plastic pollution in the ocean, one Minister Yoshiaki Harada, who greenhouse gas emissions. The State for Europe and US Ambas- US can use Russia’s weakness and nomic, geopolitical, ideological limit Russia’s profits. The second of the world's most pressing en- co-chaired the meeting, called the document ended up suggesting sador to the European Union vulnerability to further limit its and informational, and military is strengthening sanctions, where vironmental threats. The agree- agreement a "major achievement" that countries, excluding the Unit- James Dobbins; a professor political and economic potential. measures. It is clear that the ex- the involvement of other countries ment came after a two-day meet- in the lead-up to a G-20 leaders' ed States, reaffirm their promises (Brookings Institution, American It is also a kind of summary of a perts approached the develop- in such a process is seen as essen- ing of G-20 environment and summit later this month. "We to fully implement the accord that Enterprise Institute, National much more extensive monograph ment of their strategy rationally tial. Next is helping Europe find energy ministers at which dis- will continue to vigorously seek aims to keep the rise in average Defence University) and military of some 300-odd pages entitled by measuring the potential costs new gas suppliers. cussions also focused on energy solutions to such global issues," global temperatures to well be- security after attacks on two oil he told a news conference. The low 2 C compared with preindus- tankers in the Middle East that ministers stressed the impor- trial levels to mitigate the impact sparked a surge in oil prices. tance of realizing a "virtuous cy- of climate change, such as "Marine litter, especially marine cle" of environmental protection droughts, floods and rising sea TheresaMaythreatens plastic litter and microplastics, and economic growth, driven by levels. "There are countries that is a matter requiring urgent ac- "breakthrough innovation" in the would like to go make some state- tion given its adverse impacts on private sector with support from ments on the Paris climate accord toblockNoDeal Brexit marine ecosystems, livelihoods, governments. But the partici- in these documents here this and industries including fisher- pants were not on the same page weekend. I don't know that that's 'byjoiningforceswith ies, tourism, and shipping, and on all of the environmental is- really the appropriate. Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Ven ezu ela S cen a r io: talks on upcoming ministerial RuddandHammond' Theresa May has privately place, with his vanquished oppo- meeting in Washington vowed to thwart any attempt by nents deciding whether to fight on U S la u n ch es a tt a ck on Boris Johnson to take the UK or clamber aboard his bandwagon. The official representatives of the Armenian leadership have recently out of the EU without a deal, her It is predicted that the Commons become to make more statements and take more actions, which open- allies have told The Mail on Sun- contest to whittle down the field R u ssia 's p ower gr id ly characterize Armenia’s aggressive policy, spokesperson for the day. The disclosure comes as se- of six to a final two will conclude Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Leyla Abdullayeva said. Abdullayeva nior party figures told The Mail as soon as Wednesday, after two said that Armenia itself refutes the myth that the Nagorno-Karabakh on Sunday that Mrs May had more rounds of votes. Earlier this year, the Venezuelan sive tools to interfere with the infrastructure that could paralyze conflict is a conflict "between Azerbaijan and Nagorno-Karabakh", voted for ultra-Remainer Rory Former Tory leadership contend- government accused the United infrastructure of non-aligned the country in times of war. How- Trend reports. “The Armenian defense minister personally rewards Stewart in Thursday's ballot of er Esther McVey has come out in States of carrying out cyber at- countries. The current reports ever, the warnings remain un- those who killed the Azerbaijani serviceman,” she said. “The Arme- tacks on its electrical power grid make the allegations of the Vene- founded. The U.S. administra- nian defense minister’s recent actions once again confirm the aggres- MPs, which led to a landslide support of Boris Johnson. Writ- victory for Mr Johnson. Mrs ing in The Sunday Telegraph, Ms system leading to nationwide zuelan authorities a lot more plau- tion has so far declined what spe- sive policy of this country. That is why the negotiations on the settle- blackouts. A similar scenario now sible. Past Tuesday, White cific actions it would take in its ment of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict are con- May, who has vowed to stay on McVey - who was eliminated in as an MP after she leaves Down- the first ballot of MPs - said Mr plays out in Russia. According House National Security Advi- efforts to expand a cyber-war ducted between the occupier - Armenia and the party whose territo- to an exclusive report published sor John Bolton announced dur- against other countries. ries were subjected to occupation - Azerbaijan.” “We have always ing Street next month, has sug- Johnson had agreed to back her stressed and would like to reiterate that the main essence of the nego- gested she would join forces with agenda for 'blue collar Conserva- by the New York Times, the ing a live conference with the Wall Critics of the U.S. offensive tiations are the liberation of the Azerbaijani territories from the invad- pro-Remain Ministers such as tism'. 'He has promised to deliver United States government has Street Journal that the United against Russia say that the new ing forces and the return of the internally displaced people to their Chancellor Philip Hammond and Brexit on October 31, deal or no planted malware in Russia's elec- States would step up its efforts and aggressive strategy by the houses,” she said. “The main principles and elements of the discus- Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd deal, and has shown time and time trical grid system in an act of re- to counter the interference of United States could easily esca- sions have been clarified in the OSCE Minsk Group’s statement dated to try to stop Mr Johnson from again that he is a dynamic leader, venge for "Russian interference," Russia and other countries in its late into a cold-cyberwar. March 9, 2019,” Abdullayeva said. “Of course, negotiations must leaving after the October 31 dead- capable of building a strong team according to former and current internal affairs and that they The Pentagon received the per- continue within the same framework and on the existing basis, and in line 'Deal or No Deal'. No one around him that will deliver on his government officials. It seems would "pay a price" for doing mission for the expansion of its particular, the efforts must be continued to prepare the people of ever looked this pleased to see promises,' she wrote. 'Our coun- that Venezuela was a testing so. The FBI has also released cyber-operations seperately by both countries for peace, as the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs pro- Theresa! Pictured: Theresa May, try is crying out for strong, opti- ground for the Trump adminis- various reports that Russia has the U.S. Congress and the White pose." “As for the upcoming meeting of the Azerbaijani and Armenian pictured today at church, has mistic leadership and Boris is the tration in deploying more aggres- released malware into American House. foreign ministers in Washington, first of all, the process is expected to privately vowed to thwart any man best equipped to take us out be advanced through substantive negotiations at each meeting,” she attempt by Boris Johnson to take of the EU, to transform our coun- said. "We hope that during the meeting in Washington, which is a the UK out of the EU without a try into an outward-looking, con- continuation of the Moscow meeting, the parties will achieve more deal, her allies have said The scale fident, self-governing nation, and concrete results,” Abdullayeva said. “We also think that an end must Callsfor safer asylumregimeas40 of Mr Johnson's victory means to implement a policy agenda that be put to the uncertainty in the position of the Armenian leadership. Only a definite position, determination and political will can lead to that, barring a major Boris blow- will bring back the voters we have the peaceful settlement of the conflict." up, the race has effectively lost and ensure we don't allow Jer- turned into a battle for second emy Corbyn's manifesto. peopleareinterceptedinChannel Campaigners have called on min- by immigration officers. Since really wanted to deal with the Iran-Russia-Azerbaijansummit isters to allow refugees to “ap- November 2018, more than 700 problem, they’d set up an office Reconnaissance ply safely” for asylum from out- people including about 70 chil- in France and let people apply side the UK after two boats car- dren have crossed the channel in safely. A lot of the people making to be held in August aircraft haunt besieged rying 40 people were intercept- small boats. In December the this journey are Iranian and Iraqi Iran-Russia-Azerbaijan summit will be held in Sochi in August, Min- ed off the Kent coast. Officers home secretary, Sajid Javid, de- Kurds, an oppressed minority, so ister of North Caucasus Affairs of the Russian Federation announced. from UK Border Force stopped clared a major incident, prompt- they have a very good claim for Minister of North Caucasus Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergei civilians of Idlib the boats, which were carrying ing the recall of two Border Agen- asylum.” She said that since the Chebotarev announced in the second Iran-North Caucasus trade con- men, women and children, as they cy cutters from overseas opera- camp near Calais had shut down, Khalid and his family, besieged in the besiegement of the civilians made their way across the Chan- tions. A Home Office spokes- refugees continued to come to the ference that Presidents of Iran, Russia and Azerbaijan will meet for a after failing to escape the area left in the areas the military cam- tripartite summit in Sochi in August. Earlier Russian ambassador to nel in what was the latest of a woman said: “Anyone crossing French coast. “Several hundred with a massive portion of the paign covers, despite these areas growing number of such cross- the Channel in a small boat is people are now sleeping rough in Azerbaijan Mikhail Bocharnikov said that a Russia-Azerbaijan-Iran population, is striving to obtain being 40 to 50 km away from the summit is expected by the end of this year in Russia. Russian Presi- ings since last year. A witness taking a huge risk with their life Paris. All we’ve done is move this his household’s basic needs. confrontation posts, the observa- told the BBC he had seen one and the lives of their children. issue around without ever dealing dent Vladimir Putin also said in Beijing in April that he would meet However, the reconnaissance tory said, describing the campaign with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Azerbaijani President Il- group of people being stopped “It is an established principle with it and that is cruel.” She said planes are not abandoning the as a systematic one aiming at tar- by Border Force officers, who that those in need of protection that of the 68 million displaced ham Aliyev at a summit in Russia during August. "We agreed to hold area’s aerial space, not for a sec- geting civilians. Poverty Triggered another Russian-Azerbaijani-Iranian summit in Russia in August," used a siren and loudhailers to should claim asylum in the first people around the world, only ond, as to give the warplanes the People to Rule Out Displacement instruct them to put on life jack- safe country they reach and since 27,000 had applied to come to Putin said. coordinates of civil targets, he as a Choice Citizens, whom Enab The first Iran-Russia-Azerbaijan summit was held in August 2016 in ets. They were then brought on- January more than 35 people the UK in the year to June 2018. thus put it to Enab Baladi. The Baladi has interviewed, say that board the Border Force boat who arrived illegally in the UK “In 1914, 250,000 Belgian refu- Baku and the 2nd tripartite summit was held in Tehran in November northern and western rural parts they preferred to stay at their hous- 2017. from a crowded rubber dinghy. in small boats have been returned gees came here and on the busiest of Hama, as well as the southern es, the caves or the groves for not The Home Office said those on- to Europe.” But Bridget Chap- day, 19,000 people arrived in parts of Idlib are subjected to an having the expenses of the dis- board told officials they were man, of the Kent Refugee Action Folkestone. I do not understand extensive campaign of military placement journey and transpor- from Pakistan, Iraq and Afghan- Network, which supports peo- how we could take them but not Tajikistan, China sign escalation, which so far has tation to safer villages, given the istan, and after being medically ple claiming asylum in the UK, 700 people over a few months. caused the death of 659 persons, ever-rising rents at the Turkish assessed would be interviewed said: “If the British government When did we become. 189 of whom are children, in ad- borders, for a house today cannot agreements to bolster ties dition to the displacement of be rented for less than a $100. more than 503 thousand persons Since official statistics are almost Tajikistan and China have signed 18 agreements to bolster bilateral as of last February to June 9, ac- nonexistent, Observatory No. 20, ties. The documents were signed on June 15 in Dushanbe after talks cording to reports by the Re- specialized in tracking the chang- CORBYNDENIESUKHAD'CREDIBLEEVIDENCE' between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Tajik President Emomali sponse Coordinators. Since the es in the map of territorial con- Rahmon. Xi was in the Tajik capital not only for bilateral talks but to dawn of the military campaign, trol, estimates the number of ci- attend a summit of Asian leaders. the reconnaissance aircraft have vilians stuck in these villages with INBLAMINGIRANFORTANKERATTACK The agreements signed included documents on investment, agricul- never abandoned the aerial space about 10% of their original popu- Labour Party leader Jeremy Cor- tion, the U.S. charged Iran with himself to back British allies, Brit- ture, joint business ventures, and fighting terrorism. The Chinese am- of northern and western rural lation, the majority of which has byn called for the government to attacking a U.S. surveillance ish intelligence, or British inter- bassador to Tajikistan, Liu Bin, earlier said that bilateral trade be- Hama and southern rural Idlib, left to safer areas deep in the gov- restrain from escalating political drone before the tanker sabotage ests?" “Pathetic and predictable,” tween Tajikistan and China in 2018 amounted to $1.5 billion. says the Sheikh Ahmad Obser- ernorate. The UN has called for tensions between the United to cover their clandestine opera- Hunt continued. “From Salisbury vatory, in charge of monitoring the necessity to prevent any at- Kingdom and Iran after the UK tions. Corbyn tweeted on Satur- to the Middle East, why can he According to the Chinese ambassador, China is currently Tajikistan's air traffic in the area. The obser- tacks against civilians and infra- biggest investor and its third-largest trading partner. Earlier, Xi took charged the Islamic Republic day that "Britain should act to never bring himself to back Brit- vatory adds: “A massive percent- structure in Idlib governorate. with attacking two oil tankers in ease tensions in the Gulf, not fuel ish allies, British intelligence or part in the summit of the 27-member regional grouping called the age of civilians are yet stuck at “Combatting terrorism does not Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia. the Gulf of Oman. The attack a military escalation." and added British interests?” The Foreign & their houses, after they failed to absolve any party from its legal has been condemned worldwide, that "without credible evidence Commonwealth Office in the UK Besides the presidents of Tajikistan and China, the June 15 summit flee for a variety of reasons. They obligations under international with the Islamic Republic has about the tanker attacks, the backed Hunt by saying in a re- was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, and leaders from are hiding in shelters, groves and humanitarian law to prevent at- being blamed for the attack by government's rhetoric will only lease that, "No other state or non- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and India, who had some caves, escaping the constant tacks against civilians and civilian the U.S. as well. The U.S. re- increase the threat of war." state actor could plausibly have all gathered a day earlier in neighboring Kyrgyzstan for a summit of aerial and missile attacks on the infrastructure,” Najat Rochdi, Se- leased a video showing unknown Hunt responded to Corbyn's been responsible. We are confi- the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. markets and residential neighbor- nior Humanitarian Adviser to the operatives planting a limpet tweet by questioning why the dent that Iran bears responsibili- (AFP) hoods.” This situation resulted United Nations Special Envoy. charge onto the tanker. In addi- Labour leader can "never bring ty for that attack." MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES Black EconomicAlliance forum: 2020 hopefuls vow to close wealth gap Sen Elizabeth Warren received a er (D-N.J.) was the only other rum comes a week before South large standing ovation at the 2020 candidate at the event to Carolina’s Democratic convention, Black Economic Alliance Presi- get a standing ovation, the New expected to be attended by almost dential Forum Saturday, as she York Times reports. He told the all of the party’s 2020 candidates, and 3 other Democratic presiden- crowd his baby bonds plan to per the NYT. South Carolina, tial candidates vowed to close the open a $1,000 savings account which will host the fourth nomi- racial wealth gap, the New York for every child born in the U.S. nating contest next year, is the first Times reports. Details: The would "virtually eliminate the state where a large proportion of Massachusetts senator pledged racial wealth gap" for young the Democratic electorate (about at the Charleston, South Caroli- people, per CNN. 60 percent) is black, Reuters na, event to offer $7 billion in South Bend, Indiana, Mayor notes. A Black Economic Alliance grants to black, Latino and Na- Pete Buttigieg discussed his poll of 1,003 African-Americans tive American entrepreneurs via "Douglass Plan," named in hon- found that between 27% and 33% a newly proposed Department or of abolitionist Frederick Dou- of those surveyed "have reserva- of Economic Development, ac- glass that's aimed at tackling in- tions" about or are "very uncom- cording to CNN. equality among minorities, CNN fortable" with the 4 presidential The big picture: Sen. Cory Book- noted. Why it matters: The fo- candidates who addressed. Turkeyslams Moody’s Zimbabwe:SASet ToughConditions downgrade,questions for ZimtoJoin company’sobjectivity RandMonetary India will impose higher retalia- icit. From June 5, President with Mr Trump on the sidelines India on Saturday amended its tory tariffs on 28 US products Trump scrapped trade privileg- of a G20 summit in Japan on June previous order "to implement the Ankara: Moody’s decision to countries that have a better cred- Union including almonds, apples and es under the Generalised System 28 and 29. India initially issued an imposition of retaliatory duties downgrade Turkey’s credit rat- it rating than Turkey. President Emmerson Mnangagwa walnuts from Sunday, following of Preferences (GSP) for India, order in June last year to raise im- on 28 specified goods originating ing is incompatible with funda- “Foreign exchange reserve buff- has revealed that neighbouring Washington's withdrawal of key the biggest beneficiary of a port taxes as high as 120 per cent in or exported from USA" while mental indicators, Turkey’s Trea- ers are weak and Moody’s ex- South Africa imposed "unaccept- trade privileges for New Delhi. scheme that allowed duty-free on a slew of US items, incensed by preserving the existing rate for sury and Finance Ministry said, pects them to weaken further able" conditions for Zimbabwe to The new duties take effect from exports of up to $5.6 billion Washington's refusal to exempt it these goods for all other coun- adding that the country will nev- over the next two years relative join the Rand Monetary Union. Sunday, a government notification (Dh20.56bn). India termed that from higher steel and aluminium tries, the government notification er abandon free-market princi- to economywide short-term li- In a live interview with a State ples. The downgrade “raises abilities,” Moody’s said. The said, in the latest trade row since "unfortunate" and vowed to up- tariffs. But New Delhi repeatedly said. Higher Indian tariffs on US controlled radio station Friday, questions” about the objectivity ministry said it is “sad” that the Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe had US President Donald Trump took hold its national interests. India delayed raising tariffs as the two goods could impact growing po- of the credit-rating company’s rating company ignored devel- sought to adopt the South African office in 2017, vowing to act was preparing to levy higher tar- nations engaged in trade talks. litical and security ties between analysis, Turkey’s Treasury and opments including the Judicial Rand as its currency in December against countries with which iffs ahead of Prime Minister Trade between them stood at about the two nations. Finance Ministry said in a state- Reform Strategy Program, com- 2008 after the local dollar col- Washington has a large trade def- Narendra Modi's first meeting $142.1bn in 2018. (AP) ment early Saturday. Moody’s pletion of the recapitalisation of lapsed. Responding to a question Investors Service cut Turkey’s state lenders, a deceleration on why Zimbabwe has not adopt- long-term issuer rating to B1 trend in inflation and an increase ed the Rand given the economic Signs of from Ba3 on Friday, citing an in- in tourism income. “Since 2003, and in particular currency prob- creasing risk of a balance-of-pay- Turkey’s main economic poli- lems the country is facing, Mnan- ments crisis and a government cy has been to follow free-mar- gagwa said government has unsuc- IMFproposesimprovementsto recession cessfully tried this in the past. "In default. Rebuffing Moody’s ket principles,” and the coun- 2008 after the local dollar collapsed reignite debate statement on weak foreign ex- try will “never abandon” a float- the former administration (led by change reserve buffers, the Trea- ing currency, the free flow of former President Robert Mugabe) EUplantodevelopcapitalmarket over Eurozone sury and Finance Ministry said capital and its support of entre- that I was part of set up a com- the level of debt to reserves is preneurship, the ministry said. mittee of five. I was part of that The International Monetary Fund adoption of 11 new EU laws, vency frameworks. higher in some emerging-market (AP) has proposed that the European most companies in Europe still On transparency, the Fund was budget committee. Union improve transparency, reg- get their money from banks. recommending instituting centra- Industrial output in the Eurozone ulatory oversight and insolvency This contrasts with the United lised, standardised and compulso- dropped in April by 0.5%, with rules in its proposals to create a States where companies tap fi- ry electronic reporting for all issu- car production leading the nega- stronger capital market system, a nancial markets, which have ers rather than only large issuers tive trend and manufacturing out- Syrian refugeesstaying senior IMF official said. EU ef- greater capacity to spread risk as the current EU plans envisage. put seeing a steady decline since forts to create a Capital Markets more evenly across the econo- He said it would be “a major addi- the last half of 2018 when pro- in Lebanon for economic reasons, Union (CMU) have made little my. The IMF is set to publish tional step” and “a relatively pow- duction in the automobile indus- headway so far, but the plans are an analysis in the next week or erful tool going forwards” given try fell by 14%. Italy’s produc- tion dropped by 17% and British not security fear: Bassil seen as offering major benefits, two on the potential benefits of that market-based finance revolves car producers initiated annual fac- such as encouraging firms to raise a CMU and give recommenda- around publicly available informa- tory shutdowns earlier than ex- Lebanese Foreign Minister Geb- of the wages they are paid,” are willing." “That now applies more funds through stocks and tions on ways to improve it, ac- tion. Underscoring the differences pected in an effort to minimise ran Bassil says Syrian refugees Bassil said in an interview with to the majority of Syrians in Leb- bonds rather than relying so heavi- cording to Poul Thomsen, head between Europe and the United their losses in the event of a no- are staying in Lebanon for eco- British newspaper the Guard- anon because now most of Syria ly on bank loans. It was original- of its European department. States, he said that equities were deal Brexit. The German govern- nomic reasons, even though three ian published on Saturday. Leb- is safe and most of those in Leba- ly launched in 2015 and has been Speaking at the London School worth just 68% of gross domestic ment admitted that global trade quarters of them could return to anon’s economic woes do not non do not face any political or a central plank of the current Eu- of Economics on Friday, he said product in Europe compared with tension is growing, an admission their homeland as they face no make for a favorable place to live security obstacles for their return. ropean Commission’s mandate the improvements focused on a ratio in the United States closer that could be highly damaging to fear of political persecution or for the Syrian refugees. They are staying because they are which is due to expire. But after a three areas — transparency, reg- to 170%. Euro area private sector a country in which one in five threat to their security. “Most Bassil further stressed that it assisted to stay in Lebanon, and if reset of the project in 2017 and ulatory consistency and insol- debt securities. jobs depends on exports. The of the Syrians – much more than was not his government’s poli- they go back to Syria they will German economy grew by a slug- 75% – are no more in security cy to try to force Syrians to re- lose that assistance. This is the gish 0.4% in the first quarter of and political fear, but are staying turn to their country. The top main reason,” Bassil noted. 2019, mainly kept afloat by do- for economic reasons. We know Lebanese diplomat then lauded Lebanese President Michel Aoun mestic demand, but the second more than 500,000 Syrians are his country’s record of welcom- urges world powers to “make all half of 2019 seems less promis- working in Lebanon. They are ing Syrian refugees. “No one efforts” for Syrian refugees to re- Americanparadox:Deficit ing. While the German economy working everywhere in breach of country did what Lebanon did. turn home. “They are receiving aid has maintained a growth trajecto- ry for a decade, this year the gov- our labor laws, and yet even No one country is able to host for every aspect of their lives; ernment projected an annual though they break the law they 200 refugees per square kilome- they are receiving free education, widensevenaseconomygrows growth rate that is not expected are not being repatriated." ter, more than 40% of its popu- shelter and healthcare. They are to exceed 0.5%, compared to “They are working in Lebanon, lation… Despite all that we have better covered on health than the President Donald Trump likes to turn would generate higher tax than the same period of last year. 1.4% in 2018. German exports taking jobs from the Lebanese endured we never thought of Lebanese. They are afraid that take credit for the US economy, revenue. In fact, July will mark Even the billions in tariffs taken in dropped by 3.4% in April, while because they are paid at cheaper forcing anyone to return. We are once they leave, they will lose the with historic low unemployment the longest economic expansion during Trump's multi-country imports declined by 1.1% and rate as they have no taxes to pay talking of a dignified and safe assistance,” the Lebanese foreign and few signs of rising prices, but in US history, with continual trade wars have not helped, since overall industrial production con- and they are being assisted on top gradual return for people who minister asserted. his promises that surging growth growth since mid-2009. With a most of the funds taken in have tracted by 1.9%. This picture of would pay for massive tax cuts healthy economy, it is the ideal gone back out to aid farmers hurt deteriorating fundamentals is be- ginning to affect the labour mar- are falling flat. After an initial time for governments to shore up by retaliation from China and oth- ket. For the first time since 2014, bounce in 2018 and in the first their finances and reduce debt, ers. At the same time government unemployment in Germany rose three months of 2019, the econo- saving up for the next rainy day. debt is expanding, and now is larg- Mexicanbusinessmensupport by 60,000 people in May. As the my is expected to slow this year. But forecasts call for slower er than the country's annual eco- discussion turns to keeping the And the US budget deficit is growth into next year -- with nomic output at more than $22 tril- threat of a recession at bay, busi- steadily widening, the yawning some economists even fearing a lion. ZNormally this should leave ness and political leaders are re- LopezObrador'seconomicplans gap edging closer to $1 trillion af- recession -- and last month the Trump open to attacks from po- visiting their projections for a ter trending downward from its federal deficit hit a new record litical opponents, but the Demo- Eurozone budget. Speaking on the peak in 2009 during the worst of for May of $208 billion, a 42 cratic party is on the horns of a sidelines of a Eurogroup in Lux- The Regional Council for Invest- the National Council for the gy between governments, busi- the global financial crisis. Trump percent increase from a year ear- dilemma: the progressive wing of embourg on 13 June, the head of ment, Job and Economic Growth Promotion of Employment on nessmen and civil society to sup- promised to supercharge growth lier. Just eight months into the the party, including many of the the International Monetary Fund has conveyed support for Mexi- a regional scale and to improve port the local economy, so meet- to three percent or higher, and fiscal year which ends in Sep- two dozen presidential candidates, Christine Lagarde said the 19- can President Andres Manuel the growth goals to achieve 4 ings and dynamics will be agreed claimed the tax cuts would pay tember, the deficit is nearly as favor massive spending programs. member bloc should look at its Lopez Obrador''s development percent. Another key is to pro- upon. for themselves by spurring invest- big as all of 2018, swelling to With interest rates still very low, budgetary policy with stabilisa- plans, and is readying an agree- mote economic projects from re- The technical secretary added that ment and employment, which in $739 billion, $206 billion higher the adherents. tion as its main aim. ment to adhere to his economic gional levels to promote nation- in a meeting with Lopez Obrador and security proposals. Edgar al consumption in a balanced were addressed different histori- Salinas, technical secretary of the way because Mexico has devel- cal periods of the economy to con- Council, described the group's opment areas that compete with clude productive cycles, not to be Hyundai Motor objective as 'an intention to anyone on the planet, he said. destroyed, but to work on what is Dubai economy buoyed by strengthen the current project of The plan also includes a syner- already established. Groupchief calls for global effort greater business optimism, Russia,Iran havepotential to toward‘hydrogen FDI and new licences in 2019 economy’ increase bilateral trade: Minister Greater business optimism, in- rose 7 per cent year-on-year in the competitive, leaving surplus Chung Eui-sun, Hyundai Motor creased foreign investment flows first quarter as volumes grew and funds for consumers to spend on Group executive vice chairman, and more business licenses issued exports from the commercial hub other items, the DED said. called for world leaders to take in Dubai in the first four months of the Middle East climbed sharp- "Though falling prices of residen- action for the hydrogen-focused of 2019 signal growing investor ly. The Business Confidence In- tial units has had a negative im- energy transition during the Group confidence in the emirate, the dex showed that companies in the pact on real estate revenues, this, of 20 meeting of environment and Department of Economic Devel- manufacturing sector were the along with a series of initiatives energy ministers Saturday. opment said. The number of most optimistic on volumes, prof- adopted by the government of Chung, who co-chairs the Hydro- business licences issued grew 35 its and employment in the second Dubai for the benefit of citizens gen Council, was invited to ex- per cent from January through quarter of 2019, the DED said. In and residents during mid-2018 change views on the global ener- April to 9,489, compared with general, companies that participat- has helped boost Dubai's com- gy paradigm and to analyze the the same period last year, the ed in the survey said they expect petitiveness and consumer role and possibilities of hydrogen DED said on Saturday. The Busi- more profit and higher selling pric- spending on other goods and ser- energy, Hyundai Motor Group ness Confidence Index also es in the second quarter. Total FDI vices," it said. The DED said it said Sunday. The council compris- climbed to 117.8 points in the into the emirate more than tripled expects no additional implications ing some 60 companies is a global first quarter compared to 116.4 in the first quarter to Dh22.2 bil- for business costs or consumer CEO-level initiative for global points in the prior-year period. lion compared with Dh7.3bn in the spending this year from VAT, hydrogen deployment, which "Launching modern projects that same period last year, according to which was implemented last year. kicked off at the 2017 World Eco- promote trade and civilisation and the Dubai FDI Monitor of the "The implementation of VAT and nomic Forum. During a luncheon bring in new investment oppor- Dubai Investment and Develop- subsequently companies register- in Japan’s Nagano for environment tunities is beginning to bear fruit ment Agency. Tourism, a key sec- ing in the tax net has resulted in a and energy ministers from some as evident in the number of new tor in the emirate's economic di- new cost for small- and medium- 20 countries and global CEOs at- licenses issued by the Depart- versification push, grew 2.2 per sized enterprises," it said. "How- tending this year’s G-20 minis- ment of Economic Development cent in the first quarter from the ever, the cost has come down and the accelerated growth in the same period a year ago to 4.75 mil- over the following year and no Russian-Iranian trade exceeded compared to 2017", Chebotarev everything possible to achieve a ter-level meeting, Chung ad- $1.7 billion in 2018, but the two said at a conference in the Irani- new level in bilateral trade. The dressed the need to turn to hy- emirate," said Sami Al Qamzi, lion visitors. Dubai's inflation rate additional implications are fore- director general of the DED. declined 3.7 per cent in the first seen on business costs or con- countries have the potential to an capital of Tehran. The minis- two countries maintain close ties drogen to reduce carbon dioxide increase this indicator, Russian ter noted that this volume was in hydrocarbons trade and work emissions and prevent global The improving economic indica- quarter compared to an increase of sumer spending in 2019, which tors come as Dubai implements 2.2 per cent in the prior-year peri- is further good news for growth." Minister for North Caucasus very modest adding that Russia jointly on peaceful nuclear power warming. Hyundai Motor Group Affairs Sergei Chebotarev said on and Iran had a "much higher po- projects in Iran. Earlier this week, Executive Vice Chairman Chung a series of measures to boost the od when VAT was implemented. Dubai introduced a series of mea- economy, attract investors and A drop in residential property pric- sures last year to reduce the cost Sunday. "In 2018, bilateral trade tential" in this field. According Iran moved to create a free trade Eui-sun speaks during a luncheon exceeded $1.7 billion, and it grew to him, the two sides must do zone with. hosted by the Hydrogen Council. create more jobs. Its non-oil trade es has helped to make Dubai more of doing business in sectors. MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES

At this rate, it'll earn just $8.63 million for a 74% second-week- end-drop. That'll be the second-biggest drop for any remotely "big" comic book superhero movie save for Steel and its 78% second- weekend-plunge ($870,068 from a $191,667 debut) back in 1997

Dark Phoenix followed up lousy loween night). At this rate, it'll earn ways been a big frontloaded mestic finish may be a pipe dream 2000. I don't mean to pick on reviews and a lousy opening just $8.63 million for a 74% sec- (this'll make five out of the top for the $200 million-budgeted Si- this one (it is better than X-Men: weekend with a near-record free ond-weekend-drop. That'll be the 20 biggest second-weekend drops mon Kinberg flick. For reference, Apocalypse or X-Men Origins: fall. It earned just $2.348 million second-biggest drop for any re- for a comic book flick), but this the last "Dark Phoenix" movie, X- Wolverine), but there is some- on its second Friday, down 83.2% motely "big" comic book super- is essentially a record for the Men: The Last Stand, earned $77 thing galling about watching pro- from a $14 million opening day. hero movie save for Steel and its genre. The Fox/Disney release million in its first two days of do- ducers make seemingly every That's a bigger drop than Batman 78% second-weekend-plunge should earn around $51.352 mil- mestic release. Considering the wrong decision and then act flab- v Superman: Dawn of Justice (- ($870,068 from a $191,667 debut) lion by tomorrow night, so at budgetary differences, this will be bergasted at the result. They re- 81%) and the biggest such drop back in 1997. If we're talking some- least it'll pass the respective a much bigger loss for all parties made a story that no one really for a "big" comic book superhero what bigger-scale superhero mov- opening weekends of The Wol- than Fantastic Four, which earned wanted to see remade, they gave The trend of slumping sequels only mildly positive with a B on movie in history. Heck, it's es- ies, it's by far the biggest such sec- verine ($53 million in 2013), X- $56 million domestic and $167 us less fantasy and less razzle- has continued at the box office CinemaScore and a 3/5 on Pos- sentially the third-biggest drop ond-weekend drop, well ahead of Men ($54 million in 2000) and million worldwide from a $120 dazzle, they focused on the men this weekend, as Sony’s “Men trak. Other weak results this for a "big" movie after Harry Pot- Hellboy II which dropped 70% X-Men: First Class ($55 million million budget. Even presuming a rather than the title character and In Black: International” and weekend include “Shaft,” which ter and the Deathly Hallows Part (from $34 million to $10 million) in 2011). At this rate of descent, 30/70 split, a $75 million finish they overspent on reshoots to Warner Bros.’ “Shaft” are cur- was projected for an $18-20 mil- II (-84% from a then-record $90 in 2008 against the $158 million it'll lose screens by the barrel on for Dark Phoenix would mean just make a "different doesn't equal rently projected to open below lion opening by trackers but is million opening day) and High opening weekend of The Dark Friday as Toy Story 4, Child's $250 million worldwide, or well better" final product. In a world tracker expectations. “MIB: In- now looking at a $7.3 million School Musical 3 (-90% on its Knight. Dark Phoenix has no such Play and Anna open in wide re- under the $299 million global where theatrical moviegoing is in ternational” will take the No. 1 opening from 2,952 screens, and second Friday, which was Hal- excuses. X-Men movies have al- lease, so even a $75 million do- cume of the first X-Men back in a mortal struggle for survival. spot this weekend, but after a finish outside the top five this grossing $10.4 million on Friday weekend. Like “MIB: Interna- from 4,224 locations, the spinoff tional,” “Shaft” was co-financed Filmmaker starring Chris Hemsworth and as Netflix shared the film’s $30 Tessa Thompson is now project- million budget in exchange for Ritesh Sidhwani Kriti Sanon: ‘WhenAamir Khan, Shah ed to gross $26 million on its overseas streaming distribution opening weekend, behind the rights. While critics were general- gets a special $30 million projection set by ly negative with a 34% Rotten Rukh Khan, Salman Khan perform special Sony and the $35-40 million pro- Tomatoes score, the primarily Af- request for jected by analysts. By compari- rican-American opening night au- 'Fukrey 3' from songs they are never called item numbers’ son, all three of Will Smith and dience gave the film a solid A on Tommy Lee Jones’ “MIB” films CinemaScore, which could lead to Pulkit Samrat! Kriti Sanon does not shy away opened to roughly double that decent word of mouth among Af- from speaking her mind. Having figure, with 2012’s “Men In rican-American moviegoers. Be- earlier expressed that she does not Black 3” opening to a $54.5 mil- tween its relatively low cost and like how certain songs are given lion three-day launch on Memo- possible cult following, “Shaft” the ‘item number’ tag, Kriti main- rial Day weekend. The good news could at least break even. Below tains she finds it a “little deroga- for Sony is that it is not entirely “MIB: International,” Universal/ tory”. “Why do people call these on the hook for the film’s $110 Illumination’s “The Secret Life of songs item numbers is something million budget, as the studio co- Pets 2” sits in a close second with I really don’t understand. It does financed the film with Tencent an estimated $23 million in its not give out good vibes. They are and Hemisphere. Still, this second weekend, a 51% drop from simply dance numbers that add to spinoff will need strong overseas its $46.6 million opening. Dis- the entertainment factor of the film. results to keep it out of the red, ney’s “Aladdin” continues to hold And these songs are loved by peo- and that might not happen with better than expected thanks to the ple. So why not be little respect- “Toy Story 4” and “Spider-Man: underperforming competition, ful to those who are making these Far From Home” looming. Word taking $17.6 million in its fourth songs and also those who are a part of mouth isn’t helping either, weekend as it passes $250 mil- of it,” says Kriti, who has per- with critics giving it 24% on Rot- lion domestic. formed two special songs for Stree ten Tomatoes while audiences are (ABC) (Aao Kabhi Haveli Pe) and Kalank Director Ritesh Sidhwani who has (Aira Gaira). Both the songs were delivered back to back successful received well by the audience. Kriti projects, six years back released further rues that this partiality is one of his successful franchise, only when a female actor is doing Kunal Kapoor's Fukrey and actor Pulkit Samrat who was one of the lead cast of a special number and male actors the film just requested the film- never have to face the brunt of such numbers. Then why changes tiala and Housefull 4. For some- when modelling and acting hap- maker to make another sequel for tags. “When Aamir [Khan] sir, when a female actor does the one like Kriti, who enjoys danc- pened. I realised midway that’s 'Noblemen' gets the franchise. Ritesh Sidhwani's Shah Rukh [Khan] sir or Salman same? This mindset need to ing as a passion, such tags are un- my calling because I have always Fukrey was a sleeper hit when it [Khan] sir perform a special songs change,” adds the actor, who will necessary and a bit hurtful, too. been creative. released in the year it released. in films they are never called item be seen next in Panipat, Arjun Pa- “I was studying to be an engineer (Hindustan times) the release date! Later after four years, the film- maker released its sequel which gained a lot of appreciation criti- cally and at the box office both. It has been six years since the super hit Fukrey released and John Abraham, Emraan Hashmi marking this occasion today, ac- tor Pulkit Samrat took to his so- cial and shared a throwback snap join the star cast of 'Mumbai Saga'! from the film with both the pro- ducers of the film, Ritesh Sidh- wani and Farhan Akhtar along John Abraham and Emraan Hash- with the lead actors, Varun Shar- mi are the latest actors to join ma, Ali Faza, Manjot Singh and multi-starrer gangster drama film Pulkit himself. Interestingly the 'Mumbai Saga'. hashtag #6yearsoffukrey was The star-studded cast list al- trending on social media too. ready includes Jackie Shroff, Su- The character Chucha, Hun- ny and Bhooli Punjaban were the niel Shetty, Prateik Babbar, Guls- most iconic characters which got han Grover, Rohit Roy, and a lot of popularity after the first Amole Gupte. film of the franchise released. The direction of the film is being Recently, the producer also gave helmed by Sanjay Gupta, who us a dose of hint confirming has previously directed films Mirzapur season 2 as well. Ritesh like 'Kaabil', 'Shootout at Wada- Sidhwani recently delivered a hit with Gully Boy and Made in la' and 'Kaante'. Heaven as the producer which John Abraham shared the first have been a huge success along look on social media and wrote, with Inside Edge. Ever since the "They rose from the streets of drop of sneak peeks, the audi- Bombay to rule Mumbai. ence is already excited for the sec- Set in the 1980s and 1990s, the Actor Kunal Kapoor-starrer hope audiences enjoy it as much," ond season of Inside edge which film will go on floors next month psychological drama "Noble- Siddharth Anand Kumar, Vice is expected to release this year and looking at the overwhelming and is scheduled to release in men" will release on June 28. President - Films and Television response, Ritesh does not fail to 2020. Directed by Vandana Katar- Saregama India, and producer at time and again share. (Santa banta) ia, "Noblemen", backed by Yoodlee Films, said in a statement. Yoodlee Films, talks about the Kunal essays the role of a charis- struggles of adolescent years and matic drama teacher in a presti- deals with the pertinent theme gious boarding school. He uses of bullying, which is rampant in unique and unconventional ways Review: Director Jim high schools. "We are commit- of teaching theatre to his students. ted to making films that are rele- The film also stars Soni Razdan vant to our social fabric, that en- and Ali Haji. The makers of the Jarmusch puts his deadpan gage audiences, and yet entertain film on Friday unveiled its poster at the same time. With Vandana in which Kunal looks intense, behind the camera and a stellar while his student Shay's reflec- cast in front of it, 'Noblemen' has tion can be seen in water. stamp on The Dead Don’t Die been an exciting journey and we (Santa banta) With The Dead Don't Die, auteur director Jim Jarmusch puts his unique, deadpan stamp on this Spreading the magic staple of the horror genre. As one might expect, Jarmusch's vision is more ironically cerebral than Anushka Sharma and Varun of love, 'Jugraafiya' your typical zombie fare and a bit less viscerally horrifying— Dhawan’s Sui Dhaaga to from Super 30 is here! even when the aforementioned dead are chowing down on their compete at Shanghai Hrithik Roshan released the ro- victims' viscera. It's not a perfect mantic number from Super 30 film, but it's got Tilda Swinton International Film Festival titled, Jugraafiya which is out brandishing a katana with deadly Varun Dhawan and Anushka Shar- brought together National now and the love ballad will a accuracy against the undead. ma’s Sui Dhaaga - Made in India Award-winning producer-direc- soothing treat to your ears! The What's not to love? Zombies has been selected in the competi- tor combo of Maneesh Sharma song, Jugraafiya features the love might seem an odd choice of sub- tion category at the Shanghai In- and Sharat Katariya after their exchange between the lead pair ject matter for this longtime dar- Hrithik Roshan and Mrunal ternational Film Festival The Belt hit film Dum Laga Ke Haisha. Thakur. The chemistry between ling of the Cannes Film Festival and Road Film Week. A film about Producer Maneesh Sharma said crowd. Jarmusch's career took off Hrithik Roshan and Mrunal tablished the director as a rising his auteur status. In 2005, Jar- finding love and respect through in a statement: “The story of Sui Thakur and the soothing music in 1984 with his first major film, self-reliance, it narrated the story Dhaaga - Made in India is a spe- Stranger Than Paradise. Shot en- creative force in arthouse cinema. musch won the Grand Prix at of Ajay-Atul hits the right chords Movies like Dead Man, Mystery Cannes for Broken Flowers, of an innocent village couple cial salute to the inherent entre- which will make you fall in love tirely in black-and-white (a sig- Mauji and Mamta who dream big preneurial spirit of local artisans nature of the director's early Train, Down by Law, Night on which starred Bill Murray as a with the song, instantly. Hrithik Earth, and Ghost Dog: The Way middle-aged man searching for to start their own business togeth- in India. An engaging tale about Roshan took to his official social work), the film won the Caméra er. Sui Dhaaga - Made in India also self-reliance seen through. D'Or at Cannes that year and es- of the Samurai further cemented the mother of the son. media handle. MONDAY .JUNE 17, 2019 AFGHANISTANTIMES ChicagoCubs set toface St Louis Cardinalsin Londonnext summer

Andy Murray will step up his in singles action later this year, mund was drawn against top seed recovery from injury in the first although he has put no time Stefanos Tsitsipas in the first round of the doubles at Queen's frame on his return. round of the singles, while fellow Club against No 1 seeds Juan Speaking earlier in the week, Briton Dan Evans faces a tough Sebastian Cabal and Robert Murray said: "With Feli, I was task against Stan Wawrinka. Kevin Farah. The 32-year-old will re- looking at guys to potentially Anderson, seeded second, will turn to the court for the first time play with in this tournament and make his return to competitive since undergoing hip surgery in ones I would be able to get in action after being sidelined since January alongside doubles part- without taking a wild card from March against another home ner Feliciano Lopez at the Fe- one of the other British grass- favourite in Cameron Norrie. De- ver-Tree Championships. court teams. "Feli is a very good fending champion Marin Cilic Murray has not played compet- grasscourt player and someone opens his campaign against Cris- itively since losing to Roberto I have always got on well with tian Garin while Juan Martin Del Bautista Agut in the first round on the tour. Potro faces Denis Shapovalov in of January's Australian Open. He plays good doubles, he is a round one. Tyson Fury returned to winning turous support from an expect- sound of the first bell, any sign After a dominant opener, the Brit The Scot hopes to play at East- good partner." Elsewhere, Jamie The first round of singles and dou- ways in spectacular fashion as he ant crowd and paid them back that Fury may have wrongly over- switched to southpaw for the bourne later in June, possibly Murray and Neal Skupski face bles is scheduled for Monday and put on a punch-perfect display with a stunning and vicious per- looked his opponent were soon put second period and the fluidity with Lopez, but the three-time Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Tuesday, with the finals in each to stop Tom Schwarz at the formance. The 'Gypsy King' had aside, the sheer gulf in ability quick- flowed even better, two wide grand slam winner still needs a Roger-Vasselin in another entic- event set to take place in London MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Fury been at his flamboyant best for ly becoming apparent. hooks staggering Schwarz back partner for Wimbledon. If all goes ing first-round doubles clash. on June 23. was a class above the previously most of fight week and the vi- Fury, the taller of the pair, circled before an uppercut just missed to plan Murray hopes to be back British number one Kyle Ed- (SKY SPORT) unbeaten German, dropping his brant show continued inside one his man on the back foot for the the German's chin. The underdog man in the second before referee of boxing's most famed venues, first three minutes, prodding home decidedly swarmed forward and Kenny Bayless ended things lat- Fury dancing his way to the ring, with the jab at will, slowly bring- managed to corner his taller foe er in the round after a series of draped in colours of the Ameri- ing his hooks into play, a solitary but his shots did little to over- unanswered shots. Making his Las can flag, those spectating cheer- left hand from Schwarz all he got come the rapid reflexes of Fury, a Mark Ramprakash Vegas debut, Fury received rap- ing his every move. With the in return for his troubles. thumping left soon nailing. to leave England role as lead Valtteri BottassaysCanadian GP batting coach was'wake- up call' in F1title fight Valtteri Bottas says his disap- pointing Canadian GP has served as a "wake-up call" in his cham- pionship battle with Lewis Hamilton. Bottas had to settle for fourth place in Sunday's race ChrisFroomemayneed as he paid the price for only qual- ifying sixth, and now trails Mer- cedes team-mate Hamilton - who sixmonthstorecover claimed a controversial victory - by 29 points in the standings. Vettel case not necessarily closed after losingtwolitresof Mark Ramprakash will leave his yet "I can't really afford many of role as England's lead batting coach these type of weekends if I want on Friday to pursue other career to fight for the title," a disconso- blood,sayssurgeon opportunities, the ECB have con- late Bottas admitted to reporters. firmed. The former England bats- "I have to move on. "Maybe it Chris Froome may need six support over the last three days. man has worked in the England was a bit of a wake-up call again. months to recover his full The outpouring of support has men's set-up since 2013, working For sure I will learn from it." Bot- strength after losing around two been really humbling and some- with players across the senior tas wasn't able to trouble the top litres of blood in his bike crash thing I would never have expect- men's side and the pathways, and three in Montreal after his grid on Wednesday, according to one ed. Orthopaedic surgeon Gior- was contracted in the role until position meant he was stuck be- of his surgeons. The four-time gio Gresta told Italian newspa- September. Jennifer Lawrence, hind some Renaults at the start of Tour de France winner, who will per La Gazzetta dello Sport: World’s Highest-Paid Actress, is - but accepts that he essentially was the worst qualifying result for of how to improve and where to Ramprakash, who succeeded Gra- the race. Valtteri Bottas gets ahead lost points to Hamilton by mak- a Mercedes driver - discounting improve, and I was really confi- miss this year's event, was put "The intensive care was a pre- of Daniel Ricciardo on the main in intensive care after a lengthy cautionary measure due to the ham Gooch as batting coach in ing mistakes on both of his Q3 penalties, reliability failures and dent. "Then it really came down 2014, was dropped from En- straight during the Canadian GP laps on Saturday. "Honestly I crashes - since Singapore 2017. "I to a silly mistake in Q3 which led operation to correct multiple se- length of the surgery and con- He was quick once in clear air - rious injuries suffered in a sidering that the patient had lost gland's coaching staff for this sum- didn't feel it was that difficult," still felt really good in Q1 and Q2," to me losing quite a few points, mer's Ashes in March. finishing with a fastest-lap point Bottas insisted, though his P6 he added. "in Q2 I had a clear idea which is obviously annoying." 55kmph collision in France. The a lot of blood - more or less two 34-year-old crashed towards the litres. "He's not facing any spe- To have worked with the best players, alongside a variety of end of a reconnaissance route of cific risk and it's important he's world-class coaches and support stage four of the Criterium du calm and relaxed. He'll be trans- staff, has given me vast experience, Dauphine, and sustained frac- ferred to a normal care unit as which I will build on in the future tures to his vertebrae, right fe- soon as possible. "His recovery Mark Ramprakash M a n ch ester U n ited in ter ested mur, elbow and ribs. “This is time depends on his desire to "I feel the time is now right for me obviously a tough time but I have fight back but he seems very to move on from my role at the taken a lot of strength from the motivated. ECB and seek.

worth? Former United manager Jose Mourinho singled out Diop for praise when his side lost 3-1 at West Ham in September last year. As well as a centre-half, United are intent on bringing a new right- back to Old Trafford to replace departing club captain Antonio Valencia and are preparing a sec- ond bid for Crystal Palace's Aaron Wan-Bissaka after their first £40m offer was rejected. Wales international winger Daniel James has already arrived at the club from Swansea City for £15m (plus £3m add ons). Who's a free agent? Here's our out of contract XI Meanwhile, West Ham are intent on adding to their squad this sum- Manchester United are interest- would not even listen to offers they have been told by Napoli that mer and saw a £29m Maxi Go- ed in signing Issa Diop and will- of less than £60m. Diop played Kalidou Koulibaly would cost mez bid accepted by Celta Vigo ing to pay £45m plus a player for 38 times last season after the about £100m while Leicester val- on Saturday. Pakistanneeda'hero' inWorldCupclash the West Ham defender, Sky Hammers signed him from Tou- ue Harry Maguire at £80m. James They have also launched a £13m Sports News understands. West louse a year ago for £22m. urged to become next Manchester bid for Eibar defensive midfield- Ham are adamant that Diop is not United's top priority is signing a United superstar er Joan Jordan. against India,saysMickeyArthur for sale and it is believed they centre-back this summer and Transfer talk: What is Pogba (Sky Sport) Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur qualifying for the semi-finals. going to be defined by a moment has urged his players to write Despite pulling off a surprise in the game. "You do something their names into World Cup his- 14-run victory over hosts En- incredible tomorrow, you'll be re- tory by beating fierce rivals In- gland earlier in the tournament, membered forever. We've got 15 dia on Sunday at Old Trafford. Pakistan have taken just three incredible cricketers in that dress- Dartsstar LukeHumphries Arthur's side have yet to register points from their first four ing room, and we keep stressing a World Cup win against their group games. "I'm telling our to them: 'how do you want to be neighbours in six attempts - and players in the dressing room, remembered'? "You're the class of desperately need to end that se- you could be a hero tomorrow," 2019. What are they going to say talksabout battlinghis quence to boost their hopes of said Arthur. "Your careers are about you in history? mentalhealthproblems US W om en 's O pen : M am iko H iga gr abs Luke Humphries: "A lot of players have come up to me lead after record start on debut and said that they do suffer with the same thing and have Gold Mount, who won at Royal Ascot as Primitivo told me I'm not the only one, which is nice to know" in 2016, made a winning start for Ian Williams in the Sky Bet Race To The Ebor Grand Cup at York. One in four people will experi- Luke Humphries is one of those ship, had considered giving up the health struggles and make a suc- Trained by Alan King before heading out to the rich- ence a mental health problem at affected, but now the man nick- sport completely, having made cessful return to the game he so es of Hong Kong, where he was renamed, the six- some point in their lives. If you're named 'Cool Hand' has opened public a panic and anxiety disor- dearly loves, having recently year-old has the Melbourne Cup as a long-term aim. suffering from anxiety, panic at- up about how he has tackled his der that affects him both on and clinched his first PDC Develop- Having competed with credit at the highest level in tacks, depression, or have had own struggles. Humphries, who off the oche. In an exclusive inter- ment Tour title of 2019. "I think the Far East for Tony Cruz, he slightly lost his way thoughts of self-harm, then now shocked defending champion Rob view with Sky Sports' Raz Mirza, it's important that there's more for Richard Gibson, who advised sending him to his is the time to speak up and seek Cross on his way to the last eight 24-year-old has spoken about how awareness of people speaking out good friend Williams after a fourth-placed finish in help.Professional darts player of the 2019 World Champion- he was able to tackle his mental a little bit more. the Dubai Gold Cup behind Cross Counter. MONDAY . JUNE 17.2019 -Jawza 27, 1398 H.S Vol:XI Issue No:311 Price: Afs.20

Strong start for Encephalitis kills Massive Waigal, India rolls out Filmmaker Tyson Fury puts national U20 65 in Bihar, govt demonstration Afghanistan: retaliatory Ritesh Sidhwani on a show to says disease spread chokes Hong Kong gets a special Futsal team in AFC ‘This War Will tariffs on 28 US request for stop Tom championship due to heat wave as extradition Never End Here’ ‘Fukrey 3’ from Schwarz in Las anger boils goods Pulkit Samrat! Vegas

AT News Report

KABUL: Officials in the Ministry of Public Health have been the channels for drug (MoPH) on Sunday during the smuggling and human trafficking, First Symposium of Breast but now dollar finds its way to Cancer said that 20,000 cases of Iran. According to new cancer were registered across the regulation by Afghanistan’s country in 2018. A statement Central Bank, individuals do not released on Saturday by the need permission to carry up to ministry, quotes deputy minister 10,000 USD outside of the Feda Mohammad Paikan as country. A person said that he saying that over 15,000 of the had carried 30,000 USD to Iran victims had lost their lives. He and had profited 100 to 150 said that cancer is the second fatal USD. A Money Exchanger in disease after heart attack... Herat said dollar was smuggled through air corridors and border lands to Iran. “When exchange rate is different in Afghanistan and Iran, I would travel much to Iran,” The money exchanger added. “Every day, as much as 2 million USD smuggled to Iran.” Head of Western Zone Banks, Anwar The planned route of multi- Maiwand district and Delaram of Shah Yousufi, said that the country TAPI natural gas Nimruz province. reasons behind the smuggling of pipeline project will see some According to the official, the By Sayed Niyam Alami dollars to Iran varied. He accused changes in Afghanistan, Afghan regulation of TAPI project and the border custom officials of failing authorities said on Sunday. memorandum of understanding The Afghanistan national cricket to conduct their duties. Money Hashmatullah Naseri, a (MoU) on land acquisition have team, being relatively nascent, has lenders seized the opportunity spokesman for the Ministry of been finalized and will be signed been through many ups and downs to smuggle dollar into Iran. The Urban Development and Land, with TAPI Limited company in throughout its 18-yearmodern smuggling of dollars into Iran has said that the changes will next one month. Head of TAPI history. The team secured official led to the drop of Afghani value happen in order to avoid damage Limited company has also asked test status in June 2017 after AT News Report billion dollars were smuggled to through borders in western Herat against dollar in the country. to agricultural lands and gardens the Afghan government to finalize playing a decade and a half of top- Iran from Afghanistan through province. The source added the Today, the exchange rate of dollar owned by local residents. route of the project in Registan class international cricket. KABUL: A reliable source official channels in 2018. local officials were aware of the to Afghani was 80. The drop... He said that the changes will district in Kandahar and Delaram Afghanistan is now the 12th ... revealed that some four to five The amounts were smuggled smuggling. The western borders happen mostly in Kandahar’s district in Nimruz. (1TV)

The Iranian ambassador says those who lead the peace efforts are responsible for the uncertainty in the process.

KABUL: The Attorney General’s Iran’s Ambassador to uncertainty, indirectly hinting at Afghan government without a Office (AGO) on Sunday asked AGO spokesman says that 13 officials of the Afghanistan, Mohammad Reza the role of the US Special Envoy role for the Taliban. However, religious scholars, media and Interior Ministry have been jailed over the case. Bahrami, says that Tehran wants Zalmay Khalilzad, the Afghan he said the group should not have women to introduce their a role for the Taliban in government, and former a dominant role in a future representative to witness an The Attorney General’s Office, the company will be interrogated Afghanistan’s government, but President Hamid Karzai in the Afghan government – which will investigation into allegations by or the AGO, has started an during the investigation. Rasuli said that role should not be dominant. process. “I want to clarify this be formed after a possible peace Gen. Habibullah Ahmadzai. . investigation into the case of the that 13 officials of the Interior Taliban has publicly said that issue that we are not blamed for deal between the Kabul Some members of President embezzlement of Afs600 million Ministry, including a woman, and the group is not seeking power the uncertainty about the future. government and the militant Ashraf Ghani's administration ($7.5 million) from meat contract four members of the contractor and that it wants an equal role for Instead, those who have pushed group. Meanwhile, the Speaker have given out government posts of the Afghan National Police by company are in prison. Rasuli said all Afghans in the future the legitimization of the Taliban of the Senate, Fazl Hadi in exchange for sexual favours, a contractor of the Ministry of that a number of individuals have government. “We agree on the to an irreversible situation and Muslimyar, says he is not in alleged Ahmadzai, a former adviser Interior Affairs. been banned from traveling on the participation of the Taliban in those who are leading the [peace] favor of the way the peace talks to Ghani. In a letter, the AGO said At least 22 individuals have request of the Ministry of Interior. power, but we do not agree with process should be blamed [for with the Taliban are moving based on Article 143 of the been arrested in connection to the However, he did not make clear a dominant role for them,” this]. Those who have weakened forward while the Afghan people Constitution and other laws of the case, according to the Ministry their exact number. Rasa’s defense Bahrami told TOLOnews. “Our the official institutions through remain unaware about it. “Our country, an investigation of of Interior. Haji Mohammad lawyer Rohullah Sakhizada said position is very clear. We want their approach and those who expectation from [Zalmay] seven round of talks in Doha in criminal cases was its specific Rasa, a food contractor, is the there are no “justifiable reasons” to say there is a structure present have created a negative rivalry for Khalilzad is that your mission the coming days Rising Violence authority. The AGO has assigned main suspect in the case, who against his client. “We hope that where the Taliban can their contact with the Taliban is for Afghanistan, for peace in Violence has dramatically a competent committee of heads the Shuja Abdara food the Attorney General’s Office will participate.” should be blamed,” Bahrami Afghanistan... You are making increased in the country despite prosecutors to review the case in supply company. The AGO not act like the Ministry of Interior Bahrami said that the picture explained. Back in January, conspiracy for us, you are not the past seven months of light of legal provisions and by spokesman Jamshid Rasuli said and cancel the detention order of peace remains vague, adding Iran’s Foreign Minister making it for others,” diplomatic efforts at the regional considering their legal 22 officials of the Ministry of against my client as soon as those who lead the peace process Mohammad Javad Zarif said that Muslimyar said. The US and the and international levels. competency. Interior and five employees of possible,” Sakhizada said. are responsible for the it is impossible to have a future Taliban officials will attend the (TOLONews)

GARDEZ: Some members of the killed recently. Vommon people situation is terrible, targeted had deteriorated after their Provincial Council and residents looted on the highway. killings, and robberies have become arrival. Most people view them are worried at growing targetred Baejan Naeb, a resident of a routine affair.” Riyaz Zamir, as trained killers and personnel attacks in Gardez, the capital of Gardez, said unidentified gunmen another inhabitant, said some of intelligence networks. “In southeastern Paktika province. recently killed two people in the people arrived in the city almost most targeted attacks, police, While asking the authorities Erjal locality of the city in broad one month ago and lived in tents traffic and crime branch officials concerned to stop such incidents, daylight. He said people had been on the outskirts of the first police have been killed. If the situation they said some people, including concerned as no one felt secure district. They speak a strange remains the same, life will become government officials, had been in the city. “The law and order language and the security situation more difficult here. (Pajhwok)

JALALALBAD: Officials and residents of eastern Nangarhar TIRINKOT: Security forces have province say security has recovered weapons and improved with the creation of the explosives in Tirinkot, the capital local army in some districts. The of Uruzgan, an official said on local army has been established in Sunday. A former commander has Khogyani, Pachiragam, Haska been arrested in connection with Mena, Ghanikhel and Achin the seizure of the weapons. The districts. Similar army units may detainee has been sent to Kabul also be created in Batikot and for investigation. Nazyan districts. Maj. Police chief Col. Khitab Mohammad Haroon Yousafzai, Khanjari told Pajhwok Afghan spokesman for 201st Selab News 28 millimeters cannons, Military Corps, told Pajhwok Zeko U, Aga S, rockets, machine Afghan News that local army guns, Kalashnikovs and pistols created in five districts in order to were among the weapons seized. better maintain the security. “Two He asked tribal elders not to local army battalions have been visit the police station for the set up in Khogyani and release of detainees and allow Pachiragam and one each in Haska police to do their duty. Mena, Achin and Ghanikhel,” he The Ministry of Interior has added. He said the security of member of the provincial council, from Pashiragam districts also intensified the process of these districts had improved and acknowledged the local army demanded the certain of a similar disbarment and action against the local army formation would played a vital role because it force in other districts and urged powerful individuals in the be extended to other districts as involved military experiences and public uprising groups to step up provinces. (Pajhwok) soon as possible. Ajmal Omar, a help from residents. A tribal elder their struggle.