Think where man’s glory most “ www.outlookafghanistan.net begins and ends, and say my glory was @The.Daily.Outlook.Afghanistan “ I had such friends. [email protected] 0093 799-005019/ 777-005019 In front of Habibia High School, Quote of the Day William Butler Yeats District 6, Kabul, Afghanistan

Volume Num. 4529 Monday January, 25, 2021 Dalw, 06, 1399 www.Outlookafghanistan.net Price: 20/afs

Afghanistan Seeks Saudi Doing Away with The Republic Support for Ceasefire Haneef Atmar, who recently Would Cost Afghanistan Dearly: Ghani held wide-ranging talks with KABUL - Afghan President his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Ashraf Ghani said Sunday that Farhan, issued the call in an in- any interruption in the Republic terview. governing system would come Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, at a great cost to the country es- the minister said: “We are very pecially as it currently provides grateful for the special atten- equality to all Afghans. tion received from the Custo- Speaking at a meeting with dian of the Two Holy Mosques members of the Shia Ulema King Salman bin Abdulaziz and (scholars) Council of Af- KABUL - Afghanistan has Crown Prince Mohammed bin ghanistan at the Presidential urged the Saudi government to Salman.” Palace,Ghani said: “The Re- play a proactive role in achiev- Atmar appreciated their eager- public is an umbrella and a bed ing a lasting ceasefire in the ness to boost the Afghan- where the equality of all Af- war-torn country. Saudi relationship and ghans is ensured.” Foreign Minister Mohammed generous aid the... “Our security and defense forc- More on Num(Page (1) 4) es have not lost the war, and the full international legitimacy of the Islamic Republic of Afghan- Abdullah Optimistic About istan remains, and the United States is a partner of the Af- Peace Talks Despite ghan government and our secu- rity and defense forces,” Ghani Taliban Violence added. ongoing peace negotiations be- The meeting was also attended tween the Afghan Republic and by Sarwar Danish, second vice the Taliban negotiators even president, and Mohammad though violence remains “un- Mohaqiqm, a senior advisor to acceptably” high in the country. Ghani on security and political Abdullah reiterated that Af- affairs. Ghani also said that in setting ghan Republic negotiators en- the goal of peace, with the world tered the second round of the and the region, is to ensure an talks with a firm determina- independent Afghanistan that tion and with the hope to reach enjoys national sovereignty, de- “We are not ready for an apol- head of the council, said in turn is calling for peace and an end ceasefire. mocracy and national unity. ogy or surrender and we want a the Ulema council is “working to the war in the country; and it KABUL - Abdullah Abdul- “We have not lost hope in the He also stated that “way to oth- peace in which there is survival, with a moderate policy and supports the preservation of the lah, head of the High Council process, but it would have er stages of negotiations is to do prosperity and national unity,” a clear path to strengthen the Constitution, and the system of for National Reconciliation, on been good if ceasefire was it carefully, prudently and con- Ghani said. foundations of Islamic brother- the Islamic Republic of Afghan- Saturday said he remains opti- announced in the first fidently. Mohammad Akbari, deputy hood and national unity, and istan.” (ATN) mistic about the outcome of the stage,” Abdullah said.. More on Num(Page (2) 4)

Govt-Parliament Rift on Nab, Indian Envoy Covid: US Budget Delays Salaries Payment Underline Importance Service-Members fiscal year that started on Dec. mittee of the parliament said of Doha Talks Being Vaccinated 21, 2020, was rejected by the that based on the budget plan, Wolesi Jirga, the Lower House the government is removing of Parliament, two times. Law- 13,000 public servants, but it has makers cited at least a dozen is- increased the ordinary budget— sues for their decision to send from which the salaries of gov- back the budget plan to the gov- ernment employees are paid. ernment for a review. The exclusion of 1,131 provin- Lawmakers earlier this week cial projects, the allocation of said that the rejection of the Afs13 billion ($166 million) for budget plan for the second time the emergency code (an emer- KABUL - The rift on the current occurred for many reasons, gency budgetary unit) and the fiscal year’s budget plan be- namely the ambiguity around allocation of Afs2 billion ($25.5 KABUL - Deputy and Acting Foreign Minis- KABUL - The US military has launched a drive tween the government and the a Afs15 billion ($ 193.8 million) million) to the government’s ter Mirwais Nab received Indian Ambassador to vaccinate personnel in Afghanistan against the parliament has caused salary increase in the ordinary budget Code 91 and 92--also emergency to Kabul Rudrendra Tandon and had a wide- coronavirus pandemic. delays for public servants who for the current fiscal year that funds--were reasons for con- ranging discussion on the Afghan peace pro- The Modern vaccine arrived in Afghanistan on haven’t been paid for December. started on December 21. cern raised by lawmakers. cess and economic cooperation, a statement Jan. 17 and the inoculation campaign got under- The budget plan for the current The financial and budget - com The budget for ... More on Num(Page (3) 4) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) way the next day. said on Sunday. The vaccine was given to people with increased Deputy and Acting Foreign Minister congratu- likelihood of contracting COVID-19, US Forces – lated India for successful rollout of COVID-19 Afghanistan said in a statement. Notification for intention to contract award vaccine. The Indian Ambassador assured Mr. Also people with conditions that expose them Nab that Afghanistan is high on the list of t high risk if they contract the virus are being countries to receive the vaccine. given the vaccine, according to the statement. The Ministry of Finance(MOF) is intended to award the contract: Grant No.-0423 EU for Discussing the Afghan peace, Minister Social distancing and mask wearing will Transport Network Development Investment Program Tranch-04, Supply, Installation, Nab touched on the importance... remain mandatory for the roughly... Commissioning and Testing of two (2) Cargo Examination & Inspection Systems (cargo More on Num(Page (4) 4) More on Num(Page (5) 4) scanners) including specified ancillary plant and equipment and Civil Works, under the contract No, NPA/MoF/99/G-2821/ICB/Rebid with MS/Astrophysics Inc., locate at ,21481 Ferrero Parkway City of Industry, CA 91789 USA ; in the amount of USD 5,370,530(Five ‘Bigotry Behind Cutting Off Fund for Million Three Hundred Seventy Thousand Five Hundred Thirty) with such value inclusive of (i) 350,000 of provisional sum to carry out associated civil works, and (ii) 570,000 of Almar, Qaisar Electricity’ recommended spare parts, and exclusive of VAT and other taxes, as well as customs duties. MAIMANA - The residents of its contract was revoked after northwestern Faryab province 10 years. The entire machinery Bidders who appeal reconsideration or have any objection, they can submit their on Sunday warned against not got damaged and was sold in application within 7 days to the Ministry of Finance(MOF/ACD) from the date of allocating funds for electricity the market as scrap. projects in Almar and Qaisar In addition, work on another announcement. districts in the 2021 budget. Abgardan Dam was launched Provincial Council members in Pashtonkot district at a This notification does not constitute award of contract. The contract shall not be and some residents of Fayab cost of $37 million, but the awarded until the notice provided elapsed and complaints, if any received, is addressed allege that work on the Ab- contracting company in compliance with appeal and review manual. gardan Dam was kicked off at stopped work because a cost of $53 million in 2009 but funds could not be... More on Num(Page (6) 4) Page 2 January 25, 2021 Main Page

Diesel Price Goes Up Check-Post Commander by 6.5pc in Kabul Killed in Kandahar City kilogram of African black tea at 320afs. KANDAHAR - A check-post The same amount of Indonesian commander in Kandahar city, green tea increased during the the capital of southern Kanda- outgoing week in value from har province, Haji Mohammad, 300afs to 320afs, the retailer was killed in a gun-attack on Sunday. added. The slain commander was Hamid Sofizada, a retailer in brother of Gulalai Mohammadi, Dahna-i-Bagh locality, said the a lower house of parliament price of a 49-kg sack of Kazakh member from central Uruzgan flour stood at 1,750afs and a province. 50-kg bag of Indian sugar at Gunmen shot and killed the 2,350afs. commander in Simano Pul KABUL - Prices of fuel increased A 24-kg bag of Pakistani rice ac- area of 12th police district on and the cost of flour and ghee counted for 2,450afs, a 16 litres Sunday, a security source who fell last week in Kabul, market bottle of Malaysian ghee for wished anonymity told Pajh- source said on Sunday. 1,550afs, a kilogram of Indone- wok Afghan News. Mohammad Omid Hussain, a sian green tea for 330afs and the He said Haji Mohammad was wholesaler in Mandavi Market, same quantity of African black commander of a check-post in said the price of a 49-kg bag of tea for 350afs. 11th police district of Kandahar Kazakh flour decreased from Diesel price increases city. 1,730afs to 1,700afs and a 16-li- A worker of the Hashimi pump The attackers fled, police had Afghan News that the slain commander was brother of GulalaiMohammadi who is currently member of tre cane of Malaysian ghee from station in Taimani Square said launched a manhunt for them, the lower house or Wolesi Jirga. GulalaiMohammadi confirmed the murder of her brother. 1,580afs to 1,680afs. the price of one litre of diesel the source said. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the targeted assasinbation. But the rate of a 24-kg bag of rose from 43afs 46afs, while Another source told Pajhwok Kandahar security officials expressed their unawareness about the incident. (Pajhwok) Pakistani rice stayed stable at the same quantity of petrol 2,400afs, a 49-kilograms sack of accounted for 40afs — Indian sugar at 2,270 and one same as last week. ... More onNum (Page (14) 4) 9 ANA Soldiers Wounded in 4 ANA Soldiers, Balkh Clashes 6 Taliban Killed in Faryab BALKH - At least nine Afghan MAIMANA - Four Afghan Na- others. Herat Village Women on Path National Army (ANA) soldiers tional Army (ANA) soldiers The statement said a Taliban were wounded in clashes with and six Taliban militants have named Juma Gul, the brother of to Economic Self-Reliance the Taliban in northern Balkh been killed in two separate in- Mullah Farooqi, a Taliban lead- personnel on cultivation of saf- province on Sunday morning, cidents of violence in northern er, was also arrested along with fron, chicken farming, garden- sources said. Faryab province, sources said his weapon in the district. ing and poultry farming. The clash started around 4:00 on Sunday. A senior Taliban source said One of RADA NGO trainer am local time when the Tali- Shaheen Corps confirmed that The 208th Shaheen Corps in that two members of the group is providing training to some ban attacked a security outpost, six soldiers were wounded in the north in a statement said an sustained minor injuries in the women on how to cultivate saf- the sources said, adding: “The the fighting. airstrike hit Taliban’s extortion attack, but no one was killed. fron, use urea and other inputs clashes continued for several The Taliban has not yet com- posts in Chahar Shangvi village Separately, a security for the crop. hours.” mented on the attack. (TOLO of Dawlatabad district, killing source, who did not They listen to the trainers with Officials at the ANA’s 209 NEWS) six militants and wounding five want to be named,... full interest and carefully watch More onNum (Page (15) 4) and learn whatever the trainers tell them. Najeeba, 40, one of the women HERAT CITY - Some women in the Yousuf Khan village, has Badakhshan APO Scrutinizes Taliban Face Heavy Casualties in western Herat province have been supporting her 10-mem- been trying to become economi- ber family through saffron cul- More Than 800 Cases Across Afghanistan, Kandahar cally self-reliant through initiat- tivation. KABUL - The Attorney General KANDAHAR - The Ministry of fighters, killing 38 insurgents. ing small agriculture and poul- She said: “We got trained on Office (AGO) says the Appellant Defense says that 56 insurgents According to the statement Af- try farms. saffron cultivation and this crop Prosecutor Office of northeastern have been killed in clashes with ghan National Army discovered Pajhwok Afghan News reporter is beneficial as we earn liveli- Badakhshan processed 806 crimi- security forces in different parts and neutralized 17 IEDs that travelled to 10 villages in the hood from it.” nal cases this solar year. In a state- of the country in the past 24 were planted to target civilians far-flung PashtonZarghoon dis- Zahra, another village woman, ment, the AGO said the Badakh- hours. and security forces, security of- trict, where majority areas are said after getting the training shan APO scrutinized 806 cases Mod stated, that Taliban fighters ficials said in the statement. under Taliban’s control. about saffron cultivation, she this year, referring 385 cases to the which a legal decision would be had gathered in different parts of This comes as six ANA soldiers In the restive Yousuf Khan vil- passed on necessary informa- primary court and reserving judg- made as soon as possible. A fine of the Arghandab district of Kan- were injured in a skirmish with lage, no sign of development tion to her family members. ments in 97 cases due to lack of 4.52 milion afghanis was handed dahar province yesterday to at- the Taliban in Balkh province on could be seen and the Taliban “Before the training, we used to evidence. over to the government treasury tack the positions of the security Sunday. have changed this area into a irrigate saffron crop in summer The source added that 297 cases as a result of investigation and en- forces. The clashes took place at security belt. that weakened the crop, then involving court rulings had been forcement of these cases. A num- The statement added that secu- around 4 a.m. when the Despite challenges, some wom- we decided not to give wa- finalized and another 272 cases ber of vehicles and weapons have rity forces backed by air defense Taliban launched their en of this village get together ter to the crop in sum- submitted to the department on also been confiscated. (Pajhwok) targeted gatherings of Taliban offensives on a... to attend a training from NGO mer.” ... More onNum (Page (16) 4) More onNum (Page (17) 4) Outlook Horoscope Aries (Mar. 22-Apr.20) Capricorn (Dec.21-Jan19) Cancer (June 21-July 20) Libra (Sep 23-Oct. 22) Jan 25, 2021 - Some problems might arise Jan 25, 2021 - Relations with partners of with equipment that you use at home Jan 25, 2021 - Stress, strain, and a little con- Jan 25, 2021 - Too many demands placed all kinds - business, romantic, creative or with the structure of the house, Ar- flict within a business, romantic, or crea- on you by others could have you feeling - might be somewhat strained today, ies. Appliances might go on the blink or tive partnership could have you toying used, abused, and stressed, Libra. You Capricorn. You and the other parties in- the plumbing or electricity could require with the idea of ending it, Cancer. Don’t might come close to losing your temper. volved may have been under a lot of stress, and you repairs. This could be a drag. It might do anything rash right now. Wait a day or That isn’t necessary. All you have to do could be snapping at each other. It might be a good involve staying home to wait for help. Still it must be so and then think about it. This is likely to be a tempo- is learn to say no. It might not be easy, since you tend idea to keep contact between you to a minimum. If done. Find a good book and settle onto the couch. You rary situation. If you break it off now you will probably to want to please everyone, but you have to look out you can’t, try to be cordial and cooperative even if won’t have to worry about this tomorrow. regret it tomorrow. Spend time alone and give your for yourself. Help when the request is urgent and post- you don’t feel like it. partner some space. pone the rest. Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb.18) Taurus (Apr.21-May 20) Scorpio (Oct.23-Nov.22) Leo (July 21-Aug. 21) Jan 25, 2021 - Stress due to overwork Jan 25, 2021 - Some disturbing news Jan 25, 2021 - Today you might have might be causing your energy to flag could come today, Taurus. This isn’t Jan 25, 2021 - Today, Leo, you might feel thoughts of expanding your horizons, somewhat today, Aquarius. You might likely to concern you directly. It’s apt a little insecure about your state of physi- perhaps on a monumental level, Scorpio. even feel a little under the weather. This to be something about the world situa- cal fitness. You could decide to make up You might consider traveling or even is a great day to stay home and recover. tion that might eventually reflect indi- for any lack of exercise over the past few moving to a distant place. Returning to Stay out of stressful situations and do things on your rectly on you. It could be gossip about weeks. This is fine, but take it slowly. This school for an advanced degree could also be a possibil- own, preferably routine tasks that you can do with- someone you know. Whatever it is, check it out before isn’t the day to push yourself. Strained ity. Your mind could be on expansion less for financial out thinking. In the evening, order a pizza and watch accepting it as fact. The information could be garbled. muscles and exhaustion could result, and that won’t gain than for personal growth. This is good, because TV. Don’t make more work for yourself by cooking. The situation is probably more positive than it seems. do you any good. Work out, but pace yourself. the latter often leads to the former. Go for it.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Pisces (Feb.19-Mar.20) Virgo (Aug. 22-Sep 22 ) Sagittarius (Nov.23-Dec.20) Jan 25, 2021 - A rise in your income could Jan 25, 2021 - Today you could feel a lead to a transformation in your values, Jan 25, 2021 - A friend may be going through Jan 25, 2021 - Today you may receive some rush of sensual passion and desire, Gemini, particularly where business is some pretty big changes, Virgo, and come to information about how to increase your Pisces. You may want to get together concerned. You could be opening up to you for a sympathetic ear. The problem is income in a short period of time, Sagit- with a love partner in the evening, but the vast potential for prosperity that ex- that you might be a little stressed yourself tarius. This information may or may not be valid. Be not be able to do it right now. Other responsibilities ists now. This is definitely something you and not feel much like hearing about someone else’s cautious. Check out the facts before committing, wait a could get in the way of what you want to do. Per- should explore. Take care that you don’t lose sight of troubles. Show some compassion. Try to listen for a lit- few days, and then check them again. Great opportuni- haps it’s best to schedule a meeting of some kind, what really matters. Money is meant to enhance the tle while. You might need a shoulder to cry on at some ties abound and should be explored, but what you hear even if it’s very late in the evening. You will need the other departments of life, not consume them. time in the future. about today might not be one of them. comfort if nothing else.

Across Yesterday’s Solution 1. Delete, 6. Showed displeasure, 11. Unoriginal, 12. Not devious, 15. Chocolate chip or fortune, 16. Shrill, 17. Alien Life Form, 18. Clairvoyant, 20. Caviar, 21. Learning method, 23. God of love, 24. Dud, 25. Eager, 26. Add, 27. A song for 2, 28. Misprint, 29. Shade tree, 30. Cantankerous, 31. Small spoons, 34. Move furtively, 36. “___ the season to be jolly”, 37. Dad, 41. Overtake, 42. Transgressions, 43. “Wise” birds, 44. Damson, 45. Search, 46. Orange pekoe, 47. Manner, 48. Declination, 51. South south- east, 52. Icebreakers, 54. Androids, 56. Set free, 57. Foam, 58. Sperm fluid, 59. Banana oil, e.g. baby boas brilliant build Down carton choice empty 1. Environmental science, 2. Top of a house, 3. Biblical boat, 4. Trim, 5. Visual or- enjoy epoch gleam goals gans, 6. Anticlimax, 7. German iris, 8. Ear-related, 9. A late time of life, 10. Chevro- great habit hassle hidden tain, 13. Bigheaded, 14. Stair, 15. Unit of weight for gems, 16. Delicious, 19. Shouts, honest intermediate 22. Self-importance, 24. Worrywart, 26. Pinnacle, 27. Lair, 30. Throw, 32. N N N N, joyous kindly light 33. Pig sounds, 34. Join, 35. Honors, 38. Impressive, 39. Spackle, 40. Donkeys, 42. maiden mother night Lessen in force, 44. Twosome, 45. Rental agreement, 48. Wander, 49. Backside, 50. nurse personality plush Cuts off, 53. Spelling contest, 55. Except price pride robot saber Page 3 January 25, 2021 Editorial and Opinions

In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Kind Why the Doha Peace Agreement Needs to Review?

States and international allies due to the same requirement. If the By: Mohammad Zahir Akbari United States honestly acts upon the provisions of those strategic agreements, the people of Afghanistan will remained committed to n recent days, there have been hot debates in Afghan political all those historic agreement. A true friendship between Afghanistan Icommunity over the review of the Qatar peace deal signed and International community will not only refrained from the Hasty and Unconditional between the Tromp administration and Taliban. These debates were endless interferences of neighboring countries, but also guarantee the commenced after the recent expression of foreign minister of the peace and prosperity of the country. Few months ago, the first voice Troop Pullout Likely to United States of America. The new foreign minister of the United president calling on Taliban said although we both are supported Result in Security States said that they would review the peace deal agreement and so by foreigners, but there are big differences between us. The outcome the agreement may be revised. This decision has worried the Taliban of our friendship is construction of roads, schools, universities and Vacuum and Taliban supporters while the Afghan people and government so on but the outcome of your friendship is Jehad against school have welcomed the new decision of the United Sates. Now, the teachers, students, destruction of roads and university. ashington is going to review the US-Taliban Doha agree- Taliban is not interested to attend in the Qatar peace talks and so it The next reason why the Qatar peace agreement needs to be reviewed Wment. To view the agreement, the Taliban group has not seems facing with an unannounced deadlock. The representatives of is the repeated breach of the promises by Taliban. Based on the Doha honored the peace deal as it has not cut ties with al-Qaeda, not the government and people of Afghanistan have already submitted agreement between the Taliban and the United States, the Taliban reduced violence or held “meaningful talks”. The Taliban do their agenda for the next steps of talks to Taliban but they have not so should have reduced the violence, disconnected from international not have genuine intention in the talks, playing a foul game. The far. The minister of foreign affairs of Pakistan through an interview terrorists such as Al-Qaeeda, showed their practical will in the peace table and not send the released prisoners to the battlefields. Unlike group’s supporters also seek their political interests in the dia- with Al-Jazira also called the new president of the United States to the promises and agreement between the US and Taliban, and unlike logue and seem less likely to put pressure on it to declare cease- stay committed on the content of the agreement signed between the the expectation of Afghan people and international community, the fire. United States and Taliban. These delays and expressions, altogether, war and violence have unprecedentedly increased in the country. NATO believes that a hasty withdrawal, supported by Donald show that the Taliban and Taliban supporters are worried about the Based on the latest UN figures, nearly 6,000 people, a third of them Trump, is likely to create a security vacuum and the troop pull- review of the peace deal agreement signed between Taliban and children, were killed or injured between January and September last out has to be condition-based. It will maintain its presence in Af- Donald Tromp administration. Now, the question is why the Qatar peace agreement needs to be year. Dozens of social and political thinkers were assassinated. The ghanistan to alleviate the looming threat. teachers, students and women were intentionally or unintentionally The threat will continue if regional and global stakeholders do reviewed? And why this review has worried the Taliban and Taliban supporters? Thus, why the Doha peace deal agreements are very killed under name of Jehad. Although some of these crimes are not play their role genuinely in the peace process. Pakistan, attributed to ISIS, the government officials directly or indirectly which has strong leverage on the Taliban leadership, claims that important for Taliban and Taliban supporters? These questions and concerns become more important when we compare it with referred the responsibility to Taliban and Taliban supporters. In it played a constructive role in the process. Kabul and Islamabad addition, there were national and international reports indicating the previous position of Taliban when persisted to base it instead had high-level exchanges in recent months, in which Pakistani that the Taliban have not disconnected from Al-Qaeeda and other of Quran and Sunnah, and wished the victory of Donald Tromp to officials, including Prime Minister Imran Khan, vowed to back dangerous groups. win the election in United Sates? If they have a true and legitimate the intra-Afghan dialogue. As a result, a sense of optimism and The last major point which justifies the review and even revision intention for peace in the country why the US presidency changes trust emerged between the two sides and the blame game came of the Doha peace agreement is lack of serious will of Taliban or power transitions matter to Taliban? According to most Afghan to an end. for peace in the talks table. It took three months that the Taliban thinkers, there were many defaults and problems in the peace deal To Kabul’s unmitigated chagrin, a ten-minute video clip shared agreed on the agenda only. Showing its good-will, the government which unilaterally signed in the interests of Taliban in absence of the on social media, on 22 December, showed Taliban’s head of of Afghanistan released more than 5000 dangerous prisoners, but Afghan legitimate government. Qatar-based political office Mullah Baradar speaking to a crowd they never showed any flexibility to show their good-will for peace. Firstly, the peace deal agreement which was signed between Tromp in Karachi, Pakistan, including wounded fighters being treated The Taliban committed that the 5000 prisoners will not return to the administration and Taliban was really unilateral without considering there. In a rare admittance, Baradar confirmed that “all our lead- battlefield but a number them were already killed or arrested based the demand of Afghan government and people. Afghan people, after ership and elders are also based and operate from here, which is daily media news. On the whole, instead of reduction of violence forty years of fights, do not want to lose the two decades of values [evidence of] the support and value that Pakistan affords us.” He as committed in Doha peace agreement, the Taliban has used their and achievements, especially the constitutions and pluralistic system also praised the “sacrifices of you mujahedin” that had made it utmost energy to increase the casualties and it confirmed by the which preserves both national and modern values. From one hand, possible for “the world’s most arrogant power to sit [at the table] national and international studies. Therefore, the government and %99 of Afghan people are Muslim not want to leave their Islamic with us.” Pakistan did not deny the presence of Taliban lead- people of Afghanistan warmly welcome the decision of Joe Biden culture, Islamic freedom and historic values. On the other hand, the ers and rank and file on its soil as well as the treatment of their administration to carefully review the past and move forward to the people of Afghanistan are aware of demand of time how to live in future. wounded fighters. twenty first century. In fact, they knew the current requirement of Meanwhile, Pakistan invited jihadi leaders, including leader of social and political life in today’s interdependent world. In 2014, the Mohammad Zahir Akbari is the permanent writer of the Daily Outlook Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and leader of Hizbe-Wah- people of Afghanistan unanimously voted for presence of the United Afghanistan. He can be reached at [email protected] dat Islami Karim Khalili, to discuss peace issues. Afghan law- makers reacted against the invitation of jihadi leaders and said that Pakistan had possibly discussed interim government with them. That is to say, lawmakers said that the interim government plan was supported by Islamabad and US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. In his recent remarks, President Ghani said that the Taliban should not have a safe haven in Pakistan either. He said, “One of the basic needs for peace in Afghanistan is that the Taliban How to Tackle Vulnerable Countries’ Triple Crisis should cut their ties with Pakistan. If they call themselves Af- ghans and want to be in Afghanistan; they should not have dual will be. As the COVID-19 pandemic has made crystal clear, it’s better citizenships.” He added, “I urged PM of Pakistan to tell Taliban By: Manish Bapna and Muhammad Musa and less expensive to invest in preparation today than to wait for the that there is no solution without a political settlement.” next crisis to erupt. Investments in resilience can mitigate future losses Ghani has also criticized the interim government plan, emphasiz- The year 2020 changed everything. The world now faces interconnected from storms, floods, and droughts, while also creating economic oppor- ing a democratic process for the power transfer. He said that he health, economic, and climate crises that have no historical parallel. These tunities and boosting social welfare. would transfer power to the Taliban if they were elected by the converging threats affect everyone, but are especially devastating for vul- For example, making infrastructure more climate-resilient can increase people in the elections. nerable developing countries. the upfront costs of a project by about 3%, but returns four times as It is believed that harboring Taliban members and hosting jihadi The tragedy is that these countries receive relatively little direct public much. Likewise, investing in early-warning systems can save countless leaders will lead to trust deficit between Kabul and Islamabad support to build resilience to climate change, and development assistance lives and assets. Spending $800 million on such systems in developing and bilateral relations will sour. is being cut rather than expanded. As United Nations Secretary-General countries could prevent losses of $3-16 billion per year. Despite pledges made, Islamabad has not so far pressured the António Guterres noted at the recent UN Climate Ambition Summit, de- Bangladesh has seen the benefits of such early action firsthand. The Taliban to reduce violence or declare ceasefire. veloped countries are not on track to meet their commitment to provide country invested heavily in improved early-warning systems and di- Ghani’s statements indicate that it will be in the interests of Paki- $100 billion per year to support developing countries’ climate efforts. saster response in the decades following Cyclone Bhola, which killed stan to either put pressure on the Taliban leadership to declare a The international community must now show solidarity and help vul- 300,000 people in 1970. Although every death resulting from a natural nationwide ceasefire so as to reach a peace agreement with the nerable countries withstand the multiple threats they face. Doing so is in disaster is a tragedy, when Cyclone Amphan, a storm of similar magni- Afghan side or shut their leadership councils on its soil. It has to everyone’s interest, because the effects of climate change, the COVID-19 tude, hit Bangladesh in May 2020, the death toll was in the dozens. expel all Taliban members from its soil. Ghani also means that pandemic, and economic shocks know no borders. Finally, when implementing these investments, governments must en- Islamabad has to discuss peace talks with high-level government In 2020 alone, more than 50 million people were affected by climate-driv- sure that funding gets to the local level. Local communities are on the officials instead of jihadi leaders and contribute to peace process en disasters while also facing the pandemic and economic crisis. From ty- front lines of both the COVID-19 and climate crises, but rarely have a through diplomatic channels. It is self-evident that the Taliban phoons and cyclones battering Southeast Asian cities to severe droughts voice in the interventions that most affect them. Direct funding to local are fighting against the Afghan government and kill Afghan sol- devastating African farmers, the consequences were severe. By the end of and national actors accounted for just 2.1% of total international human- diers and civilians. With this in mind, no country has to harbor 2021, the pandemic could drive an additional 150 million people globally itarian assistance in 2019. their members or create room for their leadership councils on into extreme poverty. Like other resilience measures, investing in local communities delivers their soil. Research by the Global Commission on Adaptation shows that every dol- multiple benefits beyond just addressing climate risks. In Kenya, a gov- The conflict in Afghanistan has been the longest war in US his- lar invested in resilience generates up to $10 in net economic benefits. ernment program aimed at empowering local governments and com- tory and the US-led NATO member countries invested “blood” Such spending can give vulnerable countries an urgent economic boost munities to strengthen climate resilience has given households greater and “treasure” in the country for about two decades. If the Biden during the COVID-19 crisis and improve people’s livelihoods. access to water, higher incomes, and improved food security. administration follows Trump’s footsteps through supporting Many of these states, from Bangladesh to Fiji, are already building re- Many solutions exist to get funding to the local level. In 2019, BRAC the hasty withdrawal plan, a security vacuum will emerge in silience to climate threats – but they need more international support to established the Climate Bridge Fund in Bangladesh to help local non- Afghanistan, which will undo all investments in human rights, meet the full scale of the challenge. World leaders must therefore step up profits in communities affected by climate change gain greater access to women’s rights and liberties, and democratic principles. With by investing more, investing early, and investing locally. funding. The program helps realize locally led climate resilience projects this in mind, Washington has to value the two decades of blood Although policymakers have so far mobilized $13 trillion for economic – like upgrading infrastructure in city slums to withstand storms and and treasure invested in the country and pursue sustainable recovery, only a very small share of this amount has been spent by low- floods – that might otherwise be overlooked in favor of higher-profile peace in Afghanistan. It could be obtained through pressuring income developing countries. These economies have been able to allo- initiatives. the Taliban leadership to honor US-Taliban Doha peace agree- cate just 2% of their GDP to COVID-19 response and recovery measures, The world can emerge stronger from the interconnected health, eco- ment, negotiate with the Afghan government with genuine in- while wealthier economies have spent 8.8% of GDP, on average. nomic, and climate crises, but success will require bold, urgent, and tention, and putting pressure on their supporters to stop backing Meanwhile, the cost of helping developing countries adapt to climate far-sighted action. The upcoming Climate Adaptation Summit and No- the Taliban and use their leverage on persuading them to accept change will reach an estimated $140-300 billion per year by 2030 – a frac- vember’s COP26 climate conference in Glasgow will serve as important the demand of Afghan people, mainly reduction in violence and tion of what has been spent on global COVID-19 recovery efforts. checkpoints for the international community. But we cannot wait until declaration of ceasefire. This is not the time for rich countries to be stingy. History has shown then to advance adaptation measures. World leaders must act today to that when crises hit, governments can provide more resources without ensure a durable, equitable recovery that supports the most vulnerable fueling inflation. After the 2008 financial crisis, for example, countries populations. that intentionally ran large budget deficits, such as the United States and China, fared better than those that cut spending. Many studies confirm Manish Bapna is Executive Vice President and Managing Director of this positive economic effect. the World Resources Institute. Muhammad Musa, Executive Director of Moreover, the sooner the international community acts, the better off we BRAC International, is a member of the Global Commission on Adaptation.

Chairman / Editor-in-Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida

Email: [email protected] Phone: 0093 (799) 005019/777-005019 www.outlookafghanistan.net

The views and opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authers and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Daily Outlook Afghanistan. Page 4 January 25, 2021

(1) Afghanistan Seeks… Meanwhile, Stars and Stripes reported US In the past two months, several journalists other skills. Reyhaneh Rezaei, a trainer family. She says terminating parental officials refused to say how many troops in saffron cultivation section of an NGO, rights would only add to the ordeals of the oil-rich kingdom was extending to the and media workers in the country have in Afghanistan have tested positive for the said that in this project women who lack impoverished and cause further anguish in conflict-shattered nation. been killed by unidentified gunmen coronavirus. (Pajhwok) guardians and are breadwinners for their their “already miserable lives.” The Ashraf Ghani administration had or by magnetic mines, some were also families are targeted She said passage of the bill will not help honoured all commitments it held out to (6) ‘Bigotry Behind… suspiciously announced dead. According to her, they covered ten villages anyone and will not bring an end in the Taliban, the diplomat insisted, asking Two months ago, Amrullah Saleh, the provided to them at due time. in Pashtun Zarghun district and provided Tajikistan to what is known as the world’s the militant movement to discharge its first vice president, wrote on his Facebook They said President Ashraf Ghani again assistance to 10 needy women from each oldest profession. Sex workers often keep obligations and prove its intentions. page that the Taliban had decided to promised the transfer of electricity to village the source of their income secret from their Atmar explained: “We have released over target Afghan journalists, members of Almar and Qaisar districts but he broke his “I run the saffron section and 10 villages relatives, fearing strong stigmas attached to 6,000 detainees and met all the demands civil society in order to put pressure on the promise by cutting off the allocated funds are covered by us, and we have 10 prostitution in the predominantly Muslim made by the Taliban. government. for the projects in the 2021 budget. beneficiaries from each village. In the society. Tajikistan’s State Committee for “Now the Taliban must prove to the Afghan Just a few days after Saleh’s remarks, a Mohammad TahirRahmani, the Provincial saffron crop cultivation, we give training to Women and Family Affairs has been people and the international community wave of targeted attacks on journalists, Council head, said: “Some officials in these women and we also give them kits, involved in drafting the bill. Committee that they are fulfilling the promises and members of civil society, and women’s the centre due to their discriminatory such as shovels and other tools needed in members say they believe the threat of obligations they signed,” he stressed. rights activists began. mindset do not want national projects to agriculture.” (Pajhwok) taking away the custody of children would He viewed the Doha peace talks as a good In less than two months more than a dozen be implemented in this remote province. force people to think twice before getting start for reaching reconciliation with the journalists, civil society activists, and (18) India to Give… This project can help eradicate poverty and involved in the risky business. Taliban. But the dialogue was inadequate women’s rights activists were assassinated. employment in these areas.” infections - the highest after the United Committee member Obidjon Sharipov without international and regional But the Taliban have never claimed He said the president had twice promised States - with 153,339 COVID19- deaths. told RFE/RL that the amendments to the participation, he believed. responsibility such actions. the transfer of electricity to Almar and The vaccination drive, targeting frontline existing Family Law would also protect On Taliban’s attempts to dodge blame for Following the international community’s Qaisar districts. This project has 30$ million workers, is to be expanded later to cover the mental and physical well-being of the growing violence in Afghanistan, Atmar strong criticism of the recent targeted cost, he added. Da Afghanistan Breshana 270 million people older than 50 or deemed children. (Radio Free Europe) said the best way for the rebel outfit to killings, the Taliban issued a statement Shirkat was all set to launch work but the completely denying their involvement in at high risk because of pre-existing medical prove its desire for peace was to agree to Ministry of Finance removed funds from conditions. (Reuters) (23) Eleven Trapped… a ceasefire. the attacks, and besides the militant group the project in budget 2021. condemned the killings of journalists, India is also exporting doses, including workers and wearing black cloth over A ceasefire agreement would serve as the “Faryab province is out of the sight of commercial shipments to Brazil and their eyes, before being taken away by best evidence of the Taliban shunning members of civil society, and civilians. central authorities, we once again call (Khaama Press) Morocco, and free shipments to the ambulance. They were in good physical violence, remarked Atmar. (Pajhwok) on the president to fulfill his promises Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal. condition and had been getting normal (2) Abdullah Optimistic… and release funds for the projects,” said (11) 77 New… India recently trained immunisation- food since Saturday, after several days of Rahmani. programme managers from 13 foreign living off nutrient solutions, the Xinhua at a ceremony in his office that was provinces, according to data provided by Haji GhulamSakhi, an influential person, countries using Indian vaccines, the news agency said. established to form a youth committee for the Ministry of Public Health. said more than 100,000 residents of government said. China’s mines are among the world’s peace. The Health Ministry stated that the the district had long been dreaming of With 1.35 billion people, India has reported deadliest. It recorded 573 mine-related The negotiators in Doha have not held a cumulative total of known COVID19- electricity, attaching hopes with promises 10.65 million coronavirus infections - the deaths in 2020, according to the National meeting over the last 11 days, except three cases is 54,672, the total number of reported made by the higher authorities. highest after the United States - with Mine Safety Administration. (Reuters) meetings held back-to-back from Jan. 6 to deaths is 2,386, and the total number of He said the residents of Almar 10 years 153,339 COVID19- deaths. 10 between working groups of both sides recoveries is 47,298. (24) Portugal Chooses… back collected 500 to 2000 afs from every The vaccination drive, targeting frontline to finalize the agenda for the negotiations. So far, 238,778 samples have been tested family and purchased three acres of workers, is to be expanded later to cover take place on Feb. 14. Portugal has Abdullah said when it comes to peace, in government centers and there are 4,989 land in the district centre for installation 270 million people older than 50 or deemed increased polling stations and allowed efforts might be needed for reintegration known active COVID19- cases in the of a sub-station. He said if electricity at high risk because of pre-existing medical for early voting to reduce crowding on in the country, explaining the scenario of country, data by the ministry indicates. was transferred to Almar district, it will conditions. (Reuters) election day. what comes next in Afghanistan as a result The number of deaths from COVID19- improve the living standards of people. Portugal has the world’s highest rates of of talks. globally is more than 2,121,681 and the (19) Pirates Attack… People will get familiar with television and new daily infections and deaths, according “The issue of reintegration comes next once number of known global coronavirus cases technology and their economic condition only the navigation system for the to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, and we reach peace,” Abdullah said. is 98,782,736, according to Johns Hopkins will improve, he added. (Pajhwok) University. (TOLO NEWS) remaining crew to find their way to port. the public health system is under huge Last week, President Ashraf Ghani warned The vessel is currently heading to Gabon’s strain. With the country in lockdown, of “severe” consequences of an interim (7) NSA Claims… (12) Rahmat, Shahedi… Port-Gentil. The Gulf of Guinea, off the the election campaign featured none of setup as part of peace efforts in the country, implement. Our forces are prepared to not manage a longer partnership, but coasts of Nigeria, Guinea, Togo, Benin the usual flag-waving rallies or other saying that election is the only way for the fight against those who have a sinister one-down Rahmat Shah and middle and Cameroon, is the most dangerous sea large public events, though restrictions transfer of power in Afghanistan. plan. They will not allow terrorist groups order batsman HashamtullahShahid in the world for piracy, according to the on movement were lifted for polling day. “Based on what authority are they talking to destroy public facilities and kill innocent consolidated and steered their side to International Maritime Bureau. (AP) Voters were asked to take their own pen about an interim government?” Ghani people.” This comes amid ongoing peace seven wickets win over Ireland, clinching and disinfectant to polling stations. asked as he addressed a ceremony in the (20) New U.S. Defense… talks in Doha, Qatar. the series 0-2. Rahmat Shah scored 103 runs Among the incumbent’s six challengers, western province of Herat on Thursday. However, some security sources have said and Shahidi scored 82 runs. (Pajhwok) available for comment. right-wing populist André Ventura has Ghani said that the Afghan government the next spring offensive could be one of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said on attracted curiosity as the first extremist is strong and has national, regional and the bloodiest years in 20 years, unless talks (13) Bank Official… Sunday a U.S. Navy strike group entered to break into Portuguese mainstream international credibility. yield some results. (ATN) police said that three people were wounded the South China Sea on Saturday, the same politics. Ventura, 37, could conceivably Afghan experts said that the Taliban so far day Taiwan reported a large incursion of (8) 2 Weeks On… in a blast in Kabul’s PD8, without providing place second, likely far behind Rebelo has not said anything about their integration further details. Chinese bombers and fighter jets into its air de Sousa but drawing a level of support with the incumbent government. talks would probably start again. Earlier, three civilians were wounded in a defense identification zone near the Pratas that until recently was unthinkable. That “We have never heard from the Taliban Another source, privy to the Afghan peace mine blast in PD4 of Jalalabad city also on Islands. (Reuters) development has unsettled national that they will join this government,” said negotiations, also said that no meeting had Sunday, local officials confirmed. (21) 3,000 Arrested… politics. (AP) Sayed Ishaq Gailani, head of the National taken place between the two sides since last The officials said the incident is being (25) Bangladesh to… Solidarity Movement of Afghanistan two weeks. investigated. No group including the among those arrested. According to the sources familiar with The source said they were ready for talks Taliban has claimed responsibility for Police eventually pushed demonstrators cluding cost, insurance and freight (CIF) the Afghan peace talks, the Taliban has but awaited Taliban’s response. “It is either blast. (TOLO NEWS) out of the square. Thousands then liner out basis, said Mosammat Nazmanara demanded the release of additional 7,000 unclear when the next meeting between regrouped along a wide boulevard about a Khanum, the secretary at the country’s of its prisoners, the removal of some the two teams will be held”, he said. (14) Diesel Price… kilometer (half-mile) away, many of them food ministry. Taliban names from the blacklist and the However, another source in Qatar said Mohammad Sharif, a gas seller in Kalola throwing snowballs at the police before “Our main priority is to bring down the establishment of an Islamic system to help the Taliban were probably waiting for Pushta area, said the rate of one kilogram dispersing. prices of rice,” Khanum told Reuters on expedite the peace process. (TOLO NEWS) the release of more of their prisoners and of gas worked out at 55afs. Some later went to protest near the jail Sunday, adding the government could (3) Govt-Parliament… removal of their leaders from the UN Firewood, coal down where Navalny is held. Police made an buy as much as 10 million tonnes while black list. Some media reports had earlier Qudratullah, a firewood seller in Charah- undetermined number of arrests there. private traders are allowed to buy another the fiscal year 2021( 1400) that was said that the talks would be on hold until i-Shahid neighbourhood, told Pajhwok The protests stretched across Russia’s 10 million tonnes in the year to June. submitted to the parliament by the new US president, Joe Biden, is sworn Afghan News the price of per 560 kilograms vast territory, from the island city of The deal will be signed soon and the rice government estimated a total of Afs452 in on January 20, but the Taliban and of peeled oak fell from 8,200afs to 7,800afs. Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk north of Japan and will be delivered by April in phases, she billion (5.8$ billion) for this fiscal year. government negotiators had rejected the He added the same quantity of unpeeled the eastern Siberian city of Yakutsk, where said. Some lawmakers claimed that the reports. (Pajhwok) oak cost 8,000afs. The value of a tonne of temperatures plunged to minus50- Celsius, Bangladesh is also buying 150,000 tonnes government has fired a number of (9) Taliban ‘Prevents… coal remained unchanged at 6,500afs. to Russia’s more populous European cities. of rice from India’s state-run firm NAFED employees who in a way had ties with Gold price unchanged Navalny and his anti-corruption campaign in a government-to-government deal while legislators. began last week. Mohammad Javid, a jeweler in Lycee have built an extensive network of support it has issued a series of tender to buy the “It has been directed to remove lawmakers’ The Taliban not only failed to cooperate Maryam neighbourhood, said one gram despite official government repression and grain. relatives from every office and ministry with the process but also prevented of Russian gold accounted for 2,900afs and being routinely ignored by state media. “We could buy more rice from India in and should be referred to the attorney thousands of children from getting the the same amount of Arabian gold remained Navalny fell into a coma while aboard a state-to-state deals,” Khanum said, adding general’s office if they have any issue,” said vaccine in Maidan Wardak, Ghazni, stable at 3,600afs. domestic flight from Siberia to Moscow that the Food Ministry was holding talks Abdul Sattar Husaini, an MP.” Helmand, Kandahar, Kunduz, Takhar, Haji Hussain, the owner of Sadaqat Money on Aug. 20. He was transferred from a with several other Indian state agencies. The Presidential Palace has not commented Paktika, and Paktia provinces, the Public Exchange Service, said the value of one US hospital in Siberia to a Berlin hospital two (Reuters) on the matter. Legal experts said that delay Health Ministry said. A number of civil dollar was 77.20afs while 1,000 Pakistani days later. Labs in Germany, France and in salary of those soldiers who are on the society activists in eastern provinces rupees accounted for 479afs. Sweden, and tests by the Organization (26) Western Sahara… frontlines is in contravention of the law. have meanwhile called on the Taliban Last week’s rate of a dollar was 77.10afs for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, war, on the existence of a war in the Sahara” “Article 98 of the Constitution says that the to allow the vaccination campaign to be while 1,000 Pakistani rupees sold for established that he was exposed to the but “the situation is normal”, he said. government should pay public employees implemented in areas under their control. 479afs. (Pajhwok) Soviet-era Novichok nerve agent. In November, Morocco sent troops into a from previous (year’s) budget whenever “The Taliban prevented the campaign in Russian authorities insisted that the UN-patrolled buffer zone to reopen a key a problem emerges,” said Rohullah (15) 4 ANA Soldiers… areas under their control. We asked them doctors who treated Navalny in Siberia road leading to Mauritania. Sakhidad, a legal expert. to allow the children to get the vaccine,” said an Afghan National Armey (ANA) before he was airlifted to Germany found The Polisario responded by declaring a But a media officer of the Ministry of Sayeed Jamal Asifkhel, a Paktia civil society tank struck a roadside bomb in the center no traces of poison and have challenged 1991 ceasefire null and void, arguing the Finance, Faridullah Nawekht, said the activist stated. of Almar district, killing four soldiers and German officials to provide proof of his road had not existed when the truce was December salary for which documents wounding two others late on Saturday Meanwhile, children in Bamiyan, poisoning. Russia refused to open a full- signed. were sent to the finance ministry has been night. Police confirmed the blast but Daikundi, and Ghor provinces also missed fledged criminal inquiry, citing a lack of The two sides are reported to have paid. Many government employees are provided no information about casualties. out on the vaccine program as healthcare evidence that Navalny was poisoned. since exchanged regular fire along the only breadwinners for their families. Giti, a Abdul MananQati, a member of the workers were prevented from rolling Last month, Navalny released the recording demarcation line. government employee, is one of them who provincial council who lives in Almar out the vaccines due to poor weather of a phone call he said he made to a man he The UN-backed ceasefire deal was supports a six-member family. district, also confirmed the incident. conditions. In November last year, the described as an alleged member of a group meant to lead to a referendum on self- “The government employees need to be He said four army soldiers were killed in Taliban announced that the group would of officers of the Federal Security Service, determination. Morocco has offered paid,” Gitti said. the blast. He said the body of one of them cooperate in implementing the vaccination or FSB, who purportedly poisoned him in autonomy but maintains the territory is a Presidential adviser Waheed Omer still remained at the scene and two others campaign, but later the group’s spokesman August and then tried to cover it up. The sovereign part of the kingdom. last week said the reasons given by the were wounded. told Ariana News that the campaign was FSB dismissed the recording as fake. UN-led negotiations involving Morocco parliament for rejecting the draft budget He added Taliban were currently inside the stopped due to what he put down to Navalny has been a thorn in the Kremlin’s and the Polisario, with Algeria and plan are not legitimate. Almar bazaar, partially taking control of “abuses” during the vaccination process. side for a decade, unusually durable in an Mauritania as observers, have been He said the government and the parliament the police headquarters, from where they (ATN) opposition movement often demoralized suspended since March 2019. should continue their discussions to targeted security forces and the district The Polisario Front, which fought a war finalize the budget plan. (TOLO NEWS) (10) Afghanistan: Journalists… compound with sniper rifles. by repressions. for independence from Morocco from 1975 He said a local civilian was also wounded He has been jailed repeatedly in connection (4) Nab, Indian… Lashkari added, that a country without with protests and twice was convicted of to 1991, said it was still willing to join UN journalists and media is like the “graveyard during the fighting between the two sides. of the ceasefire in the second round of financial misdeeds in cases that he said talks on the territory’s future – but would of information”. (Pajhwok) Afghan peace talks in Doha. were politically motivated. He suffered not lay down its arms. (Aljazeera) The two sides deliberated on development On the other hand, Farahnaz Forotan, (16) Taliban Face Heavy… significant eye damage when an assailant a political presenter who worked with (27) French Leader… projects and economic cooperation, security checkpoint, the battle continued threw disinfectant into his face. He was are likely to be underestimated amid especially the Shahtoot Dam. various TV channels has left Afghanistan for several hours, defense officials told taken from jail to a hospital in 2019 with an secrecy often surrounding the issue. Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon assured due to recent security threats and targeted media. illness that authorities said was an allergic Deputy and Acting Minister Nab of assassinations of journalists. She confirmed Six ANA members were confirmed reaction but which many suspected was a The outpouring of testimonies in France the Indian government’s continued her migration on Twitter that she had taken wounded during the skirmish. poisoning. (AP) under the hashtag #MeTooInceste comes refuge in France. in the wake of child sex abuse accusations commitment to supporting Afghan peace Taliban have not yet commented on the (22) Tajikistan Wants… and economic development. (Pajhwok) “I went to France on a long-term visa and incident. (Khaama Press) involving a prominent French political am currently in Turkey,” she wrote on her told RFE/RL that women she knows are expert. That has also unleashed a wave (5) Covid: US… Twitter account”, she also emphasized (17) Herat Village… terrified at the prospect of being forced to of accounts by men revealing long-secret 2,500 US troops and more than 18,000 that she did not seek asylum in France, but Besides saffron, the village women are hand their children over to the state. memories of sexual abuse by other men contractors in Afghanistan. sought refuge in the country. trained on small chicken farming among Mavjuda is the only income earner in her under the hashtag #MeTooGay. (AP) Page 5 January 25, 2021 International Page

India to Give Homegrown Vaccine in Western Sahara Rebels Attack Morocco’s Seven More States This Week Guerguerat Border NEW DELHI- India said it will admin- about COVAXIN, which was approved ister homegrown coronavirus vaccine without efficacy data from late-stage Western Sahara’s pro- Spanish colony – to drive COVAXIN in seven more states from clinical trials. The government says it independence Polisario out a group of Saharawi Monday as it seeks to inoculate 30 is safe. The Lancet medical journal said Front has bombarded the rebels who were blocking million healthcare workers across the on Thursday the drug produced an Guerguerat buffer zone a transit route to neigh- country. immune response in a small group of under Moroccan control in bouring Mauritania. The government this month gave emer- adults. the far south of the desert The SPS statement also gency-use approval to the vaccine, de- Authorities have inoculated nearly 1.6 territory in an attack Ra- reported attacks along the veloped by Bharat Biotech Internation- million health workers overall using bat described as part of a security wall that sepa- al Ltd and state-run Indian Council of the two vaccines, the government said “propaganda war”. rates Saharawi fighters Medical Research, and another licensed on Sunday. “The Saharawi army from Moroccan forces in from Oxford University and AstraZen- India is also exporting doses, includ- launched four rockets in the vast desert expanse. eca PLC that is being manufactured by ing commercial shipments to Brazil the direction of … Guer- A senior Moroccan official the Serum Institute of India. and Morocco, and free shipments to guerat,” on the border in Rabat told AFP news The expansion from the 12 states now the Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh and between Morocco and agency: “There was har- administering COVAXIN includes the Nepal. Mauritania, Saharawi assing fire near the area of southern state of Kerala, which has a India recently trained immunisation- press agency SPS said in a Guerguerat, but it did not high COVID-19 caseload, and Prime programme managers from 13 foreign statement on Sunday, cit- affect the trunk road, traf- Minister Narendra Modi’s home state countries using Indian vaccines, the ing a military leader of the fic was not disrupted.” of Gujarat, the government said late on government said. With 1.35 billion peo- separatist Saharawi forces. “It’s been part of a cycle of Saturday. ple, India has reported 10.65 million Morocco launched a mili- harassment for more than Some doctors have expressed doubt coronavirus ...(More on P4)...(18) tary operation on Novem- three months,” he said. ber 13 in the buffer zone “There is a desire to create of Guerguerat – in the ex- a propaganda war, a media Pirates Attack Turkish ship off New U.S. Defense Secretary Reaffirms U.S. treme south of the former ...(More on P4)...(26) W. Africa; kill 1, kidnap 15

ANKARA- Armed pi- initially locked them- Commitment to Defending Senkaku Islands China’s Telecom Sector Reports rates attacked a Turkish selves in a safe area but Steady Revenue Growth in 2020 cargo ship off the West the pirates forced entry TOKYO- New U.S. De- Senkaku Islands, Jiji said. African coast, kidnap- after six hours. During fense Secretary Lloyd The islets are known as BEIJING- China’s tele- ed to 467.3 billion yuan ping 15 sailors and kill- the struggle, one crew Austin on Sunday, dur- the Diaoyu in China. communications indus- last year, climbing 12 per- ing one of them, officials member aboard died. It ing his first phone call The defense ministers try registered a steady cent compared with that said Sunday as Turkey identified the victim as with his Japanese coun- also reaffirmed their op- growth in revenue in in 2019. sought to recover the engineer Farman Ismay- terpart, reaffirmed Amer- position to any unilateral 2020, official data shows. China had 1.59 billion captred crew. ilov of Azerbaijan, the ica’s commitment to de- act that would under- The combined industrial mobile phone users, with The Liberian-flagged only non-Turkish crew fending the disputed East mine Japan’s right to ad- revenue rose 3.6 percent the number of 4G sub- M/V Mozart was sail- member. China Sea islets known as minister the islands, Jiji year on year to 1.36 tril- scribers reaching 1.29 bil- ing from Lagos, Nigeria, After kidnapping most the Senkaku in Japan, Jiji said. lion yuan (about 210 bil- lion, the ministry said. to Cape Town in South of the crew, the pirates news agency reported. Japan has become in- lion U.S. dollars) last year, China’s three telecom gi- Africa when it was at- left the ship in the Gulf of Austin and Japanese De- creasingly concerned up 2.9 percentage points ants saw a net increase of tacked Saturday morning Guinea with three sailors fense Minister Nobuo Ki- about Chinese activity in ministerial talks between made history on Friday from the growth in 2019, 34.27 million broadband 100 nautical miles (185 aboard, state-run Anado- shi confirmed that Article the East China Sea, in- Tokyo and Washing- by becoming America’s according to the Ministry internet users through kilometers) northwest of lu news agency said. Ac- 5 of the U.S.-Japan secu- cluding incursions into ton since U.S. President first Black defense secre- of Industry and Informa- 2020, bringing the total the island nation of Sao cording to reports, the pi- rity treaty, which stipu- waters around the dis- Joe Biden took office tary. Japan’s defense min- tion Technology. number of subscribers in Tome and Principe. rates disabled most of the lates U.S. defense obliga- puted islands. on Wednesday. Retired istry was not immediately Revenue of fixed-line tele- the country to 484 mil- Turkey’s Maritime Di- ship’s systems, leaving tions to Japan, covers the The talks marked the first Army general Austin ...(More on P4)...(20) communications amount- lion. (Xinhua) rectorate said the crew ...(More on P4)...(19)

Tajikistan Wants to Take Away the Children Uzbekistan to Launch Charter 3,000 Arrested at Protests Flights from Russia to Tashkent Demanding Navalny’s of Convicted Sex Workers Release ing her children in order prostitution and protect BAKU- Uzbekistan Air- ture at 21:20, and arrival to keep them fed. families is to create alter- ways will operate char- at 02:50. MOSCOW- Russian po- political and cultural Tajikistan’s parliament is native jobs for women so ter flights from Kazan It is reported that depar- lice arrested more than centers of Moscow and set to amend the coun- they do not have to resort to Tashkent, as well as ture time is at 21:20 and 3,000 people Saturday St. Petersburg. try’s Family Law in a way to working in the illegal from Krasnodar to Tash- arrival at 02:50 (GMT in nationwide protests In Moscow, an estimat- that would deprive con- sex industry. kent, Trend reports with +5). demanding the release of ed 15,000 demonstrators victed pimps and brothel Many woman involved reference to the press Airfare on this route, opposition leader Alexei gathered in and around owners of parental rights in the business say they service of the airline. according to the official Navalny, the Kremlin’s Pushkin Square in the -- with the state taking became sex workers be- According to the in- website, for economy most prominent foe, ac- city center, where clash- away any underage chil- cause of the extreme pov- formation, the charter class starts from 3.6 mil- cording to a group that es with police broke out dren they have. erty they face in Tajik- flights from Kazan to lion soum ($342) and counts political deten- and demonstrators were The bill is widely expect- istan, one of the poorest Tashkent will operate on business class - from sev- tions. roughly dragged off by ed to be approved. Law- countries in Central Asia. February 2, 9, 16, and 23. en million soums ($662). The protests in scores of helmeted riot officers to DUSHANBE- Mavjuda, though pimping and makers and supporters Mavjuda says she and the It is reported that depar- The company stressed cities in temperatures as police buses and deten- a Tajik single mother in prostitution are banned of the legislation say it is sex workers close to her ture time is at 18:30 and that air travel from cities low as minus-50 C (mi- tion trucks. Some were her 30s, makes her living in the country. aimed at tackling pros- have heard about the par- arrival at 23:30 (GMT of Russia to Uzbekistan nus-58 F) highlighted beaten with batons. by finding customers for Mavjuda, who doesn’t titution and protecting liament debate over the +5). is allowed with the ob- how Navalny has built Navalny’s wife Yulia a group of sex workers in want her full name pub- children. But critics say proposed legislation. She According to the official ligatory provision of a influence far beyond the was ...(More on P4)...(21) the Tajik capital -- even lished, may soon risk los- the best way to reduce ...(More on P4)...(22) website, the air ticket certificate of the passage price of economy class of the PCR check (valid costs from 1.7 million no more than 72 hours Eleven Trapped Portugal Chooses a Bangladesh to Buy Myanmar Rice, soums ($165) and busi- before the departure of President Amid a Severe ness class - from six mil- the flight) and compli- Miners Rescued lion soums ($577). ance with the visa re- Pandemic Surge Putting Aside Rohingya Crisis As for flights in the di- gime of Uzbekistan. in China After 14 rection of Krasnodar- It is noted that passen- LISBON- Portugal held a presidential DHAKA- Bangladesh Tashkent, they will oper- gers without a PCR certif- election Sunday, with the moderate in- will buy 100,000 tonnes Days Underground ate on February 9 and 23. icate will not be allowed cumbent candidate strongly favored to of rice from Myanmar, Departure time Kras- on the airline’s flights. BEIJING- Chinese rescuers pulled 11 earn a second five-year term as a devastat- putting aside a rift over nodar - Tashkent, depar- (Trend) gold miners to safety on Sunday with ing COVID-19 surge grips the European the Rohingya refugee most of them in good condition after Union nation. crisis as the govern- 14 days trapped underground after an The head of state in Portugal has no legis- ment races to overcome explosion, but 10 colleagues were still lative powers, which lie with parliament a shortage of the staple French Leader Tells Child Sex unaccounted for, state media reported. and the government, but is an influential food for the country’s Abuse Victims ‘We Believe You’ Television footage showed the first voice in the running of the country. more than 160 million miner as he was brought to the sur- Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, 72, is regarded people. PARIS- Amid a national system would finance face in the morning, a black blindfold as the clear front-runner among seven High rice prices pose a French reckoning with psychological treatment shielding his eyes from daylight as he candidates. He is an affable, approachable problem for the Dhaka sexual abuse of children for children who are vic- was lifted out of a shaft. dhist Myanmar have vestigators said was ex- law professor and former television per- government, which is by family members, tims of sexual violence, The miner was extremely weak, state been at odds over the ecuted with “genocidal sonality who as president has consistently ramping up efforts to President Emmanuel and said more should broadcaster CCTV reported on its more than 1 million Mus- intent” - assertions that had an approval rating of 60% or more. replenish its depleted Macron told victims Sat- be done to address the Weibo site. Rescue workers wrapped lim Rohingya refugees in Myanmar denies. To win, a candidate must capture more reserves after floods last urday: “We believe you. problem. the barely responsive man in a blanket camps in southern Bang- Bangladesh will import than 50% of the vote. But a severe surge year ravaged crops and You will never again be “Shattered lives in the and took him to hospital by ambu- ladesh. The vast majority white rice in a govern- in coronavirus infections in recent days sent prices to a record alone.” sanctuary of a child’s lance. of them fled Myanmar in ment-to-government could keep turnout low and perhaps lead high. The French government room. Stolen childhoods Over the next few hours, 10 miners 2017 from a military-led deal at $485 a tonne, in to a runoff between the two top candi- Muslim-majority Bang- pledged on Thursday during family vacations, from a different section of the mine, crackdown that U.N in- ...(More on P4)...(25) dates, which would ...(More on P4)...(24) ladesh and mostly Bud- to toughen laws on the or times that should who had been getting food and medi- rape of children after a have been innocent,” cal supplies down a shaft from rescue massive online move- Macron said. “These tes- workers last week, were brought out ment saw hundreds of timonies, these words, in batches. Belarus Police Arrest 100 in Renewed Protests victims share accounts these cries, no one can “We made a breakthrough this morn- about sexual abuse with- ignore them anymore. ing,” chief engineer at the rescue cen- up to 30 people were formed The protests, some of which attracted in their families over the Against sexual violence tre, Xiao Wenru, told the Xinhua news throughout Minsk. It did not 100,000 people or more, were the most past week. against our children, it is agency. “After clearing these broken, give an exact number of detain- serious challenge to Lukashenko, who In a video message now up to us to act.” powdery pieces, we found that there ees.The demonstrators held red- has repressed opposition and retained posted on social net- The World Health Orga- were cavities underneath ... our pro- and-white flags that are a sym- a largely Soviet-style economy since works Saturday, Ma- nization say international gress accelerated.” bol of opposition to President 1994. The protests faded as winter cron promised sexual studies show that one in Officials had said on Thursday it Alexander Lukashenko and weather set in, and Saturday’s demon- abuse screening and five women and one in could take another two weeks to drill shouted “Go away!” strations were the first of 2021. prevention meetings 13 men report having a rescue shaft through blockages to KYIV- Police in the capital of Belarus A wave of near-daily protests According to human rights advocates, with every child, both been sexually abused as a reach the group of 10. One of the men arrested about 100 people who formed broke out in August after a presidential more than 30,000 people have been in elementary school child aged under 18. Ex- brought to the surface was injured but human chains in demonstrations calling election which officials said gave Lu- detained since the protests began, and and middle school. He perts say sexual abuses several were shown walking, support- for the authoritarian president to resign. kashenko a sixth term in office but that thousands of them were brutally beat- said the state health care ...(More on P4)...(27) ed by rescue ...(More on P4)...(23) A police statement said the chains of opponents say was manipulated. en. (AP) www.outlookafghanistan.net www.thedailyafghanistan.net @The.Daily.Outlook.Afghanistan @The.Daily.Afghanistan [email protected] [email protected] 0093 799-005019/ 777-005019 0093 799-005019/ 777-005019 In front of Habibia High School, In front of Habibia High School, District 6, Kabul, Afghanistan District 6, Kabul, Afghanistan

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NSA Claims Taliban Not Interested in Peace, But Preparing for War KABUL - National Security “We have new plans for the while said they are prepared Adviser Hamdullah Mohib on war ahead. We fulfilled our for the Taliban to launch their Sunday accused the Taliban of wish for peace, but the Taliban spring offensive. not showing any commitment did not use it. Security forces “The security forces are fully to peace and said the group’s suffered few casualties in the prepared, the security forces negotiating team has no au- fighting,” said Yasin Zia,- Af are in favor of peace. If the thority to make decisions. ghan Chief of Army Staff. Taliban choose the path of war, Speaking at a security meeting Meanwhile, intelligence infor- they will face us. The level of at an Air Force Corps in Kabul, mation from security agencies coordination among the securi- Mohib said the Taliban negoti- shows that the Taliban is pre- ty forces is high, and new prep- ating team leaders do not have paring to launch their spring arations have been made for the authority to make their own offensive. the continuation of the Repub- decisions and are therefore “The Taliban has no intention lic,” said Massoud Andarabi, wasting time in the process. of making peace. Terrorist the minister of interior affairs. Moheb also said that intelli- groups are working for foreign In addition, Shah Mohmood gence sources indicate that the intelligence and their only goal Miakhiakhil, the deputy de- Taliban are preparing for war is to kill people. fense minister, said: “The plans in the spring. Security forces have mean- we have, we are trying to... More on Num(Page (7) 4)

2 Weeks On, Taliban ‘Prevents’ 3.5 Afghanistan: Journalists, Reporters Displaced Negotiating Sides Million Children from by Surge of Targeted Assassinations, Killings Getting Polio Vaccine KABUL - As the targeted kill- nel One, left Afghanistan due to Yet to Meet ings and assassinations in the security threats against journal- country have increased, more ists. specifically by targeting jour- In a video posted on social media, nalists and members of civil so- Lashkari says he is leaving Af- ciety, many of the media work- ghanistan to protect his life. ers were forced to leave the the recent targeted killings of country. journalists have caused many Saturday night, Mukhtar Afghan media figures to Lashkari, the host of the satiri- leave the country either cal program “Cactus” on Chan- forever or for a while,... More onNum (Page (10) 4)

KABUL - The Afghan government and the Tali- GHAZNI - More than 3.5 million children have ban’s negotiating teams held no meeting on the been deprived of anti-polio vaccinations due to agenda of peace talks in Qatar since last two restrictions imposed by the Taliban in several weeks, a credible source said Sunday. provinces, the Ministry of Public Health claimed 77 New Cases of COVID-19, After a three-week recess, the Afghan negotiat- Saturday. ing team arrived in Qatar on January 5 and held The Ministry stated that the Taliban’s restrictions 8 Deaths Reported in Afghanistan their first meeting with the Taliban’s team the fol- on the house-to-house vaccination campaign has KABUL - The Ministry of Pub- (10), Kabul (1), Kandahar (3), lowing day. increased from three to ten percent of homes in lic Health on Sunday reported Takhar (2), Paktia (3), Baghlan The two sides also held meetings on January 9 the last three years. 77 new positive cases of COV- (2), Badakhshan (3), Helmand and January 10, but since they had not met. Mirjan Rasikh, head of the Polio Eradication ID-19 out of 1,593 samples (1), Laghman (3), Kunar (3), A government’s negotiating team member in Qa- Program said: “Although the Taliban promised tested in the last 24 hours. Faryab (7), Uruzgan (2), Jawz- tar, who wished to go unnamed, told Pajhwok to cooperate in implementing the vaccine, they The Public Health Ministry jan (5) and Nuristan (1) prov- Afghan News that they had no meeting with the have prevented it more so than in the past.” also reported eight deaths and inces. Taliban side about the agenda of peace talks “Children in Paktia and Maidan Wardak have 355 recoveries from COVID-19 Deaths were reported in since the last two weeks. The source did missed the immunity doses against the po- in the same period. Ghor (4), Kabul (1), Herat not say why the negotiations had been lio virus due to the Taliban’s restrictions,” The new cases were report- (1), Nangarhar (1) and stalled, but said that the ... Rasikh said. The vaccination campaign ... ed in Nangarhar (31), Herat Faryab (1)... More on Num(Page (8) 4) More on Num(Page (9) 4) More onNum (Page (11) 4)

Rahmat, Shahedi Steer Afghanistan to Bank Official, Driver Wounded in Series Win Over Ireland Blast Bodyguard Killed KABUL - Afghanistan on 50 overs, with Paul Sterling’s KABUL - A bodyguard was city after an armored vehicle Sunday beat Ireland by seven magnificent 128 runs. killed and the head of the carrying Abdullah Durani, wickets to clinch the three- Afghanistan bowlers Naween- Central Bank’s dispute reso- the head of the Central Bank’s match One Day International ul-Haq took four wickets and lution department and his dispute resolution depart- (ODI) series 2-0 in Abu Dha- MujeebRahman took three driver were wounded in to- ment, was targeted by a mag- bi, the United Arab Emirates wickets to restrict the op- day’s blast in Kabul, the Cen- netic IED, the statement said. (UAE). position from posting a big tral Bank confirmed in a state- “His bodyguard was killed Ireland won the toss of the sec- total on the scoreboard. In ment. in the blast,” it said, adding ond ODI and decided to bat reply, Afghanistan off to The incident occurred around that Durani and his driv- first and managed to post a de- a shaky start and both 8:12 am local time in the Shah er were wounded. scent total of 259 in the allotted the openers did... Shaheed area in PD8 of Kabul Before this, Kabul... More onNum (Page (12) 4) More onNum (Page (13) 4)