Eye on the News [email protected] Truthful, Factual and Unbiased Vol:XI Issue No:130 Price: Afs.20

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AT News Report

KABUL: At least eight Afghan AT News Report National Army embraced martyr- dom and 10 other were captured KABUL: Members of parliament alive after the Taliban insurgents accuse Pakistan government of attacked their base in Bal Baluk what they call “deceiving” Afghan- district of western Farah province, istan and the United States over officials said Sunday. Dadullah the Washington new efforts for Qane, a member of the provincial peace in Afghanistan. The US spe- council, told Pajhwok Afghan cial representative for Afghanistan AT Monitoring Desk war. The short-term goal, current reaching political settlement still News the militants attacked a mil- reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad and former officials say, is a cease- appear dim, and President Donald itary base in the Aab Khurma area paid a visit this week to Islama- KABUL: The Trump administra- fire agreement to at least tempo- Trump faces the risk of a political of the district on the Herat-Farah bad, where he encouraged Pakistani tion is pressing to open peace talks rarily curtail an alarming rise in at- backlash if he pulls out and the highway late on Saturday night. officials to help the peace process with insurgents in Afghanistan by tacks by Taliban insurgents that country again becomes a failed He said the base fell to the rebels, in the war-hit neighboring coun- April, a timetable driven by the have caused hundreds of Afghan state where terrorists could find who took away all weapons and try. Pakistani foreign minister, Shah president’s mounting impatience civilian and military casualties a refuge. Without signs of progress ammunition before leaving. Pro- Mehmood Qureshi has reported- with the stalemated 17-year-old month. But prospects for a far- in coming months, Trump... P2 vincial officials have not yet com- ly assured Khalilzad of his coun- mented in this regard so far. More- try’s support for the peace pro- By Farhad Naibkhail General Office (AGO) on Sunday over, Qari Yousaf Ahamdi, a Tali- gram. Bu the parliamentarians still suspended five members of the ban spokesman, claimed eight sol- doubt the promises made by Paki- KABUL: Following allegations of Afghan Football Federation diers were killed and 10 others stani authorities, saying Islamabad sexual and physical abuses of fe- (AFF), including its head Kera- seized by the attackers. was trying to deceive Kabul and male footballers, the Attorney muddin Karim, in which it... P2 Washington by false commitments as it repeatedly did in the past. Lawmaker, Dawood Kalakani, said Sunday that Pakistan pretends to honestly help Afghan peace AT News Report process with the aim of decreasing US pressures. “Qureshi’s state- KABUL: President Ashraf Ghani AT News Report jor part to these parties in forming AT News Report Afghan News the weapons were resident of Ghazni city, told Pajh- ments are just to deceive both Af- appointed Sunday former interior consultation board, because they confiscated from a house in the lim- wok the Taliban hid a lot of weap- ghanistan and the US to decrease minister Umer Daudzai as head of KABUL: Members of Senate say are influential entities and can per- KABUL: Weapons made-in Iran its of 3rd police district of Ghazni ons inside people’s houses after Washington’s pressures by saying the High Peace Council’s (HPC) believe that government’s opposi- suade Taliban militants to join the have been seized from a house in City, the provincial capital. He they attacked Ghazni city. “Po- that they are honest in cooperat- secretariat, presidential office said. tion political parties can play a peace process. southern Ghazni province, and a said the Iranian arms included nine lice should search all houses,” he ing with the peace process in Af- Daudzai is a prominent member “key role” in the face to face talks However, the members of sen- suspect was detained in regard, se- Kalashnikovs, five pistols, a hand said. Few months ago, a large num- ghanistan,” Kalakani said, asking of the Council for Protection and with the Taliban representatives ate once again offered concerns curity officials said Sunday. Ghaz- grenade and a large number of bul- ber of armed rebels stormed Ghaz- the government to clearly demand Stability in Afghanistan, a govern- over the peace process. over the increasing insecurities in ni Police Chief Brig. Gen Ghulam lets. He said owner of the house ni City, resulting in hundreds of Pakistan stop supporting Taliban ment opposition political party. The senators on Sunday called the country, saying war intensifies Dawood Tarakhel told Pajhwok had been arrested. Wahdatullah, a casualties. This comes as ... P2 and interfering in ... P2 The government has also ... P2 on the government to grant a ma- day by day. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES AGO suspends head...... P1 would help the office to probe once it done. Moreover, President the case without any nuisances. Ashraf Ghani’s Adviser, Fazel Fa- Their suspension would help zly said in a twitter post that the us to investigate the matter in a move was taken after reviewing of better manner without any chal- the allegations by the Attorney lenges and obstacles, AGO Spokes- General’s Office. man Jamshid Rasouli told Afghan- The issue was raised by a istan Times, and informed of a del- member of the Afghan Football egation assigned by the AGO in Federation, Khalida Popal, who the issue. claimed that woman members of “The delegation has chalked the federation are abused physi- out a plan to probe the allegation cally and sexually by male mem- of sexual and physical abuses of bers of the AFF at its headquar- female footballers seriously.” ters and at a training camp in Jor- The suspended members are dan in 2016. including of head AFF Keramud- But, head of AFF, Keramud- din Karim, Deputy of Federation, din Karim, last week rejected the General Secretary of Federation, claims against him and his office Get Keeper Committee in charge which said he and other employ- and the Provincial Communication ees of the authority have sexually in charge of the Federation. and physically abused female The spokesman assured to members of the federation includ- KABUL: Political experts, elector- and disrespecting all efforts and plaints had been received should maker from Kandahar province, votes. Yousuf Rashid, executive share the findings of probe com- ing women football players in dif- al watchdogs, candidates and law- sacrifices made during the Wolesi be declared as valid. Mohammad said the reason behind invalidation head of the Free and Fair Election mission with the media outlets ferent occasions. makers have criticized the invali- Jirga election process in Kabul. Hassan Haqyar, a political affairs of Kabul votes was not rigging, but Foundation of Afghanistan dation of all votes cast in Kabul Also late Thursday, a number of expert, said: “Rigging happened, differences between the two com- (FEFA), termed the IECC decision province, says biometric votes leading Wolesi Jirga candidates held but not to the extent that all votes missions. He said the Independent as taken in haste and suggested Iranian weapons seized in Ghazni from polling stations where no a meeting and said the IECC deci- should be declared invalid. In my Election Commission (IEC) and the separate of biometric and non-bi- complaint was received should be sion of invalidating all votes from opinion, it was an irresponsible IECC should work in cooperation ometric votes. He termed the IECC ...P1 recently US displaced pieces of what it said were Iranian weapons declared valid. The Independent Kabul was illegal. Shahla Farid, lec- decision and in contrary to the ex- with each other and avoid confron- decision as unjust and added: “I deployed to militants in Afghanistan. The Pentagon offered a detailed Electoral Complaints Commission turer at Kabul University, told Pa- isting political, economic situation tation. Ayubi added invalidation of don’t think this decision will be explanation of why it believed the arms on display came from Iran, (IECC) on Thursday announced jhwok Afghan News everyone of the country.” He said all votes Kabul votes would mean burial of implemented in the current circum- noting what it said were Iranian corporate logos on arms fragments and invalidation of votes cast at all knew rigging had taken place even in Kabul were not fraudulent and democracy and determinations of stances.” Mohammad Naeem the unique nature of the designs of Iranian weaponry. polling stations in Kabul due to in Kabul but not to the extent that in some polling stations no rigging the people. Zmarak Pakhabi, a law- Ayubzada, head of the Transpar- fraud and rigging.However, short- all votes should be invalidated.She took place and the election pro- maker from Kabul province, said ent Election Foundation of Af- ly after the announcement, the In- said if the decision was not recon- cess went fair. Some Wolesi Jirga the IECC should differentiate be- ghanistan (TEFA), said: “Accord- Pakistan is not honest with... dependent Election Commission sidered, it would bring under ques- members also warned if the two tween polling stations from where ing to our inspection, rigging did (IEC) on Thursday evening reject- tion the respect for vote, social election bodies did not resolve their complaints had been registered and not happen in all Kabul polling ...P1 Afghanistan affairs. “Pakistanis are trying to get ed the IECC’s decision as hasty justice and elections. Offering so- differences and failed to recognize polling stations from where there stations and the IECC decision in Qureshi is reported to travel advantage from the Afghan peace. and politically motivated. The IEC lution to the issue, she said not their responsibilities, the masses were no complaints. He said the this regard has been taken hastily to Kabul for more discussions over Qureshi’s visit to Kabul is just to had said invalidating all votes of only biometric votes but votes from would no longer participate in only solution to the issue was to and should not have been shared the peace program. show to the world that they (Pa- Kabul tantamount to disregarding polling stations where not com- polls. Abdul Rahim Niyazi, a law- declare valid biometrically verified with the media.” The US President, Donald kistan officials) are serious in co- Trump had earlier asked Pakistan’s operating with the peace in Af- Prime Minister Imran Khan to ghanistan. So, I can say that Af- help the Afghan peace program. ghan peace today is compulsory Trump administration presses for peace deal in ... The US has been long demanding with every side getting ready to 33 militants killed Pakistan to persuade Taliban based take their own advantages,” said ...P1 could face the same dilem- forever. Khalilzad held preliminary that their objective is for U.S. in Pakistan to join the peace talks. political expert, Entezar Khadem. ma as his predecessors: withdraw talks in October with Sher Mo- troops and other foreign forces to all or most of 14,000 U.S. troops hammad Abbas Stanekzai, the Tal- leave Afghanistan. Increasingly, in military and risk a Taliban takeover, or iban’s political chief, in Qatar. The that appears Trump’s objective, Pakistan will collapse like Soviet leave them there indefinitely, even insurgency’s leaders still refuse to too—a confluence that in theory though he and his advisers con- deal openly with the Afghan gov- could leave room for a deal. Union if it pursues arms sider the war unwinnable. Zalmay ernment. In hopes of convincing crackdowns Khalilzad, a former U.S. ambas- insurgents to come to the bargain- ‘Daudzai appoints as ...P12 “Pakistan needs economic power and education as its’ current ...P12 Taliban fighters were killed, 15 suspects arrested and a hideout of sador to Afghanistan whom ing table, the Pentagon has dramat- Trump appointed in September to ically stepped up airstrikes, drop- head of HPC focus, nuclear weapons are of no use if it truly seeks to be a great power the enemy with a vehicle destroyed—seven militants killed and six once again,” Haqqani was quoted as saying during his interaction, which others wounded in Balablok district of Farah—six rebels killed and five handle the peace initiative, is seek- ping 5,213 bombs and other muni- secretariat’ ing to jump-start the talks. He tions on Afghanistan in the first came before his speech on the theme “Seeking Lost Glory: Lessons of others wounded in Shindand district of Heart province. Islamist Extremism.” Similarly, three insurgents were killed and two others wounded in warned Afghan officials who are nine months of this year, more than ...P1 reportedly discussed with reluctant to embrace the U.S. in any of the last five years, ac- Haqqani was critical of the fact that Pakistan believes nuclear weapon- Khanabad district of Kunduz—one militant killed and three suspects former intelligence chief, Rahma- ry is important and makes them an equal on the world stage. “However, arrested in Janikhil district of Paktia—two insurgents killed and six peace initiative that they cannot cording to U.S. Central Command. tollah Nabil to take over the post count on U.S. military support Taliban officials have said for years they prioritise it over economic and educational well-being. If you have other wounded in Nanai area of Ghazni province. of defense ministry, but he has re- ten bombs, you need to make 15. How many times are you going to jected the post, demanding for the bomb something?” he asked. “So it’s a losing race, an arms race is post of director of the National always going to be a losing race, so Pakistan may end up like the Soviet Directorate of Security. Sources Union did. The Soviet competed very well with America, but in the end, close to the government say that it just collapsed from within, economically and all that,” he added. The Role of Afghanistan in China’s President Ghani is working to in- “Use the money [aid] to encourage expenditure in education, or using crease the number of his support- the aid to boost the economy instead of investing it in the military, ers inside and outside the country where more than half of the population lives at near poverty living on $2 so that they help him be selected a day,” Ambassador Haqqani said Haqqani now serves as the Director Belt and Road I nitiative and as head of the future’s interim ad- for South and Central Asia at the Hudson Institution in Washington ministration. D.C. China’s Policy on Afghanistan It urges govt. to focus on long-term Speech by CIIS the first Belt and Road Forum for munity to provide a secure envi- ing of Afghan National Security International Cooperation held in ronment for the development of Forces for national security and President Qi Beijing in 2017 that “for wild geese the Belt and Road. strengthening Afghanistan’s self- anti-graft efforts Zhenhong at the 7th to weather through storms and fly As a traditional friendly neigh- defense and anti-terrorism capabil- ...P12 the most positive. When ficials in their provinces. about tackling corruption, the Gov- “Herat Security steady and far, the key to success bour to Afghanistan, China will ities. asked about the political situation Perceptions and experiences of ernment must prosecute a much lies in their relying on each other’s continue to play its role as a major 3. Firmly supporting Afghan- in Afghanistan as a whole, the lev- corruption higher number of more serious cor- Dialogue” strength by flying together.” This responsible country and take firm istan-Pakistan mutual understand- el of optimism was markedly dif- Since 2016, there has been a ruption cases & carry out these analogy is a vivid depiction of the action to uphold Afghanistan’s ing and cooperation. ferent, with only a quarter of all slight decrease in proportion of prosecutions in a timely & effi- spiritual core of the Belt and Road peace process and national recon- Since the China-Afghanistan- respondents describing the situa- citizens who feel that corruption cient manner. Asset recovery: Use Initiative, which is more a choir of struction. Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Minis- tion in Afghanistan as good. is “very serious” and a correspond- the existing legislation on illicit participating countries than a solo As far as I am concerned, Chi- ters’ Dialogue held by China for “This sense of pessimism is ing decrease in the proportion of enrichment to seize assets unlaw- by China alone. na’s policy towards Afghanistan the first time in September 2017, particularly acute in Central and Afghans who feel there has been fully obtained. Staffing: The At- So far, a total of more than 100 advocates “four firm supports” China has hosted the China-Af- Western regions, where only 16 no improvement in reducing cor- torney General’s and Anti-Corrup- countries and international organi- namely: ghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Vice percent and 18percent respective- ruption in any public institution. tion Justice Centre (ACJC) office zations have expressed their sup- 1. Firmly supporting Afghan- Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dia- ly gave a positive assessment,” the When asked about institutions must be properly staffed with suit- port for the Initiative and over 40 istan’s political reconciliation. logue as well as the Trilateral Vice- survey said. they deemed the most corrupt, a ably qualified personnel to allow a economies and international orga- The inclusive reconciliation Ministerial Consultation on As was the case with previ- majority named courts and judges much higher level of prosecutions nizations have signed related co- process of “Afghan-led, Afghan- Counter-Terrorism and Security in ous surveys, insecurity continued (14 percent), Ministry of Educa- in corruption cases both in num- operation agreements with China. owned” is the only path to realize May 2018. This shows China has to be the main concern among Af- tion (10 percent) and the Attor- ber & seriousness of cases. ghans followed by unemployment ney General’s office (9percent) Penalties: As a proper deter- Batches of influential pilot projects lasting peace and development in been zealous in promoting discus- and corruption, it said. However, among the top three. Meanwhile, rent, the penalties for conviction have been kick-started. Afghanistan. Therefore, the Chi- sions to extend the China-Pakistan the proportion of those who men- only a quarter of Afghans believed of persons involved in corruption As a transportation hub con- nese side will continue to support Economic Corridor to Afghanistan tion corruption among the there had been some progress in cases, particularly the more seri- necting Central Asia, South Asia this process, and we hope the Kab- properly and is always willing to country´s top three problems has reducing corruption in any public ous ones, must be reviewed so that and West Asia, Afghanistan is a ul Process will continue to con- reinforce the trilateral cooperation declined from 47 percent to 33per- institution. Impacts and drivers of those persons so convicted will significant juncture within China’s tribute its efforts. In addition, Chi- to cope with challenges posed by cent. “This does not necessarily corruption The vast majority of face the penalties of losing their It is a great pleasure to be here. Belt and Road Initiative. And thus na advocates for the agreements to terrorism and extremism with indicate that corruption is on the Afghans (83 percent) believed that jobs, their pensions, serving a pris- First of all, please allow me to ex- Afghanistan has unique geograph- be reached between the Afghan shared efforts. decline. Instead it is more likely corruption had negatively affect- on sentence and paying substan- tend my sincere thanks to Dr. ic advantages and huge potential government and the anti-govern- 4. Firmly supporting Afghan- that the deteriorating security sit- ed the life of people in their local tial fines. Accountability systems: Davood Moradian and his team for development. Afghanistan has ment parties, including the Afghan istan’s integration into regional uation and other key challenges are areas. Almost three quarters of The government should establish from the Afghan Institute for Stra- been consistently supporting the Taliban, so as to initiate the pro- development. demanding citizens´ attention, those surveyed did not trust local robust accountability mechanisms tegic Studies(AISS) for inviting me Initiative and it is expected to board cess of peace. China also calls for In accordance with the resolu- problems which are themselves public services because of corrup- within the public service, includ- to attend this Dialogue and also China’s express train of develop- operations in accordance with rel- tions of the UN General Assem- exacerbated by widespread corrup- tion amid a strong sense that peo- ing the use of complaint mecha- for their thoughtful arrangements. ment with its participation. In evant resolutions of the UN Gen- bly, China is determined to improve tion and the failure to prioritise ple in government, NGOs and in- nisms and citizen-led monitoring May 2016, China and Afghanistan eral Assembly to be conducted by the economic cooperation and in- longer-term strategies to strength- ternational organisations were only systems in key service delivery The Herat Security Dialogue now en governance in the country.” The out to benefit themselves. By far ministries Whistleblowing: The enjoys growing influence and has signed a memorandum of under- the Quadrilateral Coordination terconnectivity in this region and standing on the BRI, which aims Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pa- facilitate Afghanistan’s integration report said 62 percent of those the most common reason Afghans government must take urgent ac- evolved into an important platform surveyed felt the government had say they would give a bribe is be- tion to ensure that those who re- for all relevant parties to exchange to foster cooperation in various kistan, China and the United States into the regional trend of develop- not done enough to tackle these cause there is no other way to ob- port corruption are afforded pro- views on issues such as peace, co- areas including policy coordina- to promote the realization of peace ment through the promotion of the problems over the past two years tain a service. tection through the active enforce- operation and nation building that tion, infrastructure development, negotiations between the Afghan Belt and Road Initiative. In May —a slight decrease on the 67 per- Meanwhile, there has been a ment of Afghanistan´s new whis- are important for Afghanistan’s energy cooperation, and trade and government and the Taliban at an 2018, China conducted a vice-min- cent who felt the same way in significant increase since 2016 in tle-blower protection law. future. I would like to start by say- investment facilitation. China and early date. isterial meeting of the SCO Af- 2016. Respondents in more inse- the number of respondents who Awareness-raising: All actors ing that Afghanistan has a long his- Afghanistan are now cooperating 2. Firmly supporting Afghan- ghanistan Liaison Group in cure southern region were signifi- say they would pay a bribe (33 should work to strengthen public tory and has formed a unique and to develop the Belt and Road, and istan’s peace and reconstruction. Beijing. And in early June, Presi- cantly more positive about percent up from 22 percent. Atti- engagement in the fight against cor- splendid civilization. Afghan peo- have achieved positive results in China will, through its own dent Ghani, as the leader of the government´s efforts to address tudes of fighting corruption Wor- ruption by supporting the use of ple are very kind, wise and hard- such key areas as policy commu- approaches, continue to support observer state, attended the 18th Afghanistan´s major problems ryingly the proportion of citizens tools to anonymously report and working. What I have seen here for nication, facility connectivity, the Afghan government in strength- Meeting of the Council of Heads than those in more strongly gov- who feel that they could do noth- track corruption such as Integrity myself is in a striking contrast to trade facilitation, financial coop- ening its capabilities, support state of State of the Shanghai Coopera- ernment-controlled areas, such as ing personally to reduce corrup- Watch Afghanistan´s Efshagar plat- the image of Afghanistan por- eration and people-to-people ex- reconstruction and finally, lead tion Organization in the Central Highlands region. De- tion has doubled since the last sur- form. Anti-Corruption Law: The trayed in some Western media, and changes. Afghanistan to the path of inde- Qingdao,China’s Shandong Prov- spite deteriorating security and vey in 2016, with women being government should urgently recon- I am quite optimistic about Afghan- The host province of this Dia- pendent development. Since 2002, ince. These activities are intended ever-increasing influence of the significantly more pessimistic than sider its decision not to form a joint logue, Herat, is an important eco- China has assisted several engi- to further Afghanistan’s integration Taliban, Afghans remained opti- men in this regard. On the other governmental and civil society se- istan’s future. Thanks to its natu- mistic about the prospects for hand, awareness among citizens lection committee for the proposed ral geographical proximity and nomic, cultural and transportation neering projects in Afghanistan and into the tide of regional develop- center in West Afghanistan, and trained over 800 talents annually ment and the cooperation under the peace and econciliation, the sur- about where to report corruption Anti-Corruption Commission. long-time people-to-people ex- vey found. Nevertheless, 43 per- has increased significantly since Without a joint selection commit- changes, Afghanistan was a key serves as a key hub for many re- within multiple areas. Also, China framework of SCO. cent of respondents strongly 2016. At the same time, 14 per- tee, the independence of the Com- part of the ancient land-based Silk gional connectivity projects. The has worked together with the Unit- To sum up, Afghanistan is at a agreed or agreed with the state- cent f respondents stated that they mission will be seriously compro- Road, and our two peoples forged province of Herat is actively ex- ed States and India to host training crucial phase where triple trans- ment that people in their areas ref- or someone in their household had mised. Civil service reform: The close and friendly relations. The panding exports of its competitive projects for Afghan diplomats. I formation of politics, economy and ered to the Taliban because of cor- reported such an act during the government should push through outstanding Chinese diplomat and goods such as marble and saffron believe that in the future, China security is ongoing. Under coop- ruption —— up from 39 percent past 12 months, compared to 9 key civil service reforms, includ- explorer Zhang Qian living in the by means of the Belt and Road and Afghanistan will work hand in eration frameworks such as the in 2016. Meanwhile, 62 percent percent in 2016. Moreover, around ing installing & enforcing a system 2nd Century BC during China’s Initiative, and trying to attract hand to implement the China-Af- Belt and Road Initiative, China will of respondents across the country half of those who reported corrup- of recruitment & promotion on Western Han Dynasty was one of more direct investment from Chi- ghanistan Memorandum of remain firm in enhancing practical agreed that corruption within the tion voiced some level of dissatis- merit, ensuring the verification of the pioneers who blazed the trail na. Understanding(MOU) on Jointly cooperation with Afghanistan and state was facilitating the expansion faction with the process. The most asset declarations of all senior pub- for the ancient Silk Road and he is Here I would like to mention Pushing Forward the “Belt and providing further assistance for its of Taliban, a significant increase on commonly cited reasons for not lic officials and the imposition of the first Chinese known to have that the 71st General Assembly of Road” Construction and enhance peace and reconstruction within its the 51 percent who believed this reporting corruption remained the sanctions for failure to register. engaged in official exchanges be- United Nations has unanimously bilateral cooperation in areas such capacity so as to deepen and con- to be the case in 2016. Respon- lack of confidence that any action Business sector: The govern- tween China and Afghanistan. passed Resolution A/71/9 on the as the economy and trade, energy solidate our bilateral strategic part- dents in the South, where the in- would be taken and the fear that ment should continue its recent As we all know, five years ago, issue of Afghanistan. The Resolu- resources and infrastructure con- nership. I firmly believe the dust surgency is at its strongest, were those who reported corruption progress in simplifying business tion appealed to the international struction. Afghanistan’s indepen- on the”Shining Pearl”of the ancient the least likely to say that corrup- would be subject to retribution/re- processes and reducing red tape in Chinese President Xi Jinping first tion within the state was facilitat- venge. Although 40 percent felt order to further reduce the oppor- proposed the Silk Road Economic community to further consolidate dent choice of political system and Silk Road will be wiped out for consensus on assistance to Af- development path should be wide- the benefit of our two peoples and ing the expansion of the Taliban. corruption could not be reduced at tunities for administrative corrup- Belt and the 21st Century Mari- The international community was all (as compared to 37 percent in tion. Areas which require further time Silk Road in 2013, the Belt ghanistan, and provide Afghanistan ly respected. We anticipate that contribution to the peace and pros- also the target of much criticism. 2016). About 64 percent, 54 per- simplification include registering and Road Initiative(BRI), as they with aid in political, economic and political parties within Afghanistan perity of this entire region. More than half (52 percent) of cent and 44 percent of respondents property, dealing with construc- are now collectively known. Now security areas; it welcomed eco- could bridge their differences to Qi Zhenhong is currently Pres- those surveyed did not believe the respectively believed the Office of tion permits and enforcing con- this Initiative has gradually evolved nomic cooperation initiatives in- jointly promote national develop- ident of the China Institute of In- international community wanted the President, the NUG and the tracts. Working Together: Encour- from planning to practice and from cluding the Belt and Road Initia- ment. Meanwhile, in order to ternational Studies to fight corruption in Afghanistan, Office of the Chief Executive has age government departments, busi- vision to reality. It has made tive, urged all relevant parties to counter terrorism and transnational Academicians and Officials compared to 45 percent in 2016, “a sincere desire and will to com- ness, civil society organisations progress and achievements beyond help boost economic development crimes such as drugs smuggling, the interested to publish their academ- 36 percent in 2014 and 37 percent bat corruption”, which is a small and donors to work together in the expectations and has won an en- in Afghanistan and the wider re- Chinese side will keep coordinat- ic pieces on this page, please ap- in 2012. The same proportion but significant improvement. Rec- fight against corruption and to pro- larged circle of friends. President gion through the Initiative, and ing within the international soci- proach us through: (52percent) believes that the in- ommendations Prosecutions: To mote a culture of integrity within Xi said in his opening remarks at appealed to the international com- ety, enhancing the capacity build- [email protected] ternational community is not sup- give confidence to the people that the civil service and society in gen- portive of honest government of- the Government is really serious eral. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

The Ministry of Finance calls on lawmakers to approve the budget in order to prevent problems for the next fiscal.

President Ghani has said corruption is a key element of poverty and The Ministry of Finance (MoF) “Parliament should approve hinders the implementation of law and order in the country, has submitted the draft for the na- the budget soon to prevent prob- tional budget to the Wolesi Jirga, lems in implementation of devel- sion from the government’s reform the Lower House of Parliament, opment projects,” Haidari said. HERAT: Akhtar Mohammad solution lies in addressing the root policy. “Whenever we talk about one month ago, but it has not has The Ministry of Finance has faced a life-or-death decision: Let causes that led to this displacement reform, some people think that the been approved so far, spokesman allocated AFs 399 billion for the his entire family starve, or sell his crisis in the first place, notably lack pioneers of reform want to dig a of the ministry Shamroz Khan 1398 fiscal year’s budget, 69 per- 2-year-old daughter. of livelihoods, lack of employ- pit for others and they have a neg- Masjidi said on Saturday. cent of which has been allocated A farmer from the northwest- ment, high levels of poverty, ative impression of reform,” said Masjidi said they are con- for the standard budget while the ern Afghan province of Badghis, drought, and conflict," says Ali- Ghani. He also called on the me- cerned about the consequences of remaining 39 percent has been al- Mohammad lost his livelihood son Parker, UNICEF's chief of dia, public and civil society insti- delay in budget approval on project located for the development bud- during Afghanistan's worst drought communication in Afghanistan. tutions to help government in its activities and salary payments for get. According to the ministry, from in living memory. Unable to grow Suraya Pakzad, who heads efforts towards fighting corruption government employees. He said 13 the AFs 399 billion, AFs 275 bil- crops to feed his family, and bur- Voice of Women, a nongovernmen- in the country. days have remained from the cur- lion will be allocated to the stan- dened by debt, his family first tal organization based in Afghani- Meanwhile, Second Vice Pres- rent fiscal year, but they are still dard budget and the remaining will started to skip meals. Then he sold stan, said there had been a clear ident Mohammad Sarwar Danish waiting for MPs approval on the be put aside for the development their three sheep. Then Moham- increase in the number of families also addressed the gathering, in budget. “We urge lawmakers to budget. The MoF figures show mad reluctantly made the hardest selling young girls. which he highlighted the govern- approve the new fiscal year bud- that 51 percent of the budget will decision of his life. "It is very, very shocking," said President Ashraf Ghani on Sunday constitution and, finally, corrup- ment’s achievements in the field get as soon as possible. We need be funded by foreign aid while 49 "I was compelled to sell my Pakzad, speaking at a UN-spon- described corruption as one of the tion is the key element of poverty of the rule of law, war on corrup- to have the budget approved ahead percent of it will be funded by na- daughter," says Mohammad, who sored conference on Afghanistan key elements of poverty and se- and insecurity,” said Ghani. tion and the ratification of access of the fiscal year to spend more tional revenue. The MoF last week has been living with his family for in Geneva on November 27. "Girls curity threats in the country and Speaking on International to information act, plus the mines development budget in the next said that so far this year, govern- the past few months in a swelling aged between 8 to 12 years old are that the trend also hinders imple- Anti-Corruption Day, Ghani said law. This comes at a time that anti- year against this year,” said Masji- ment’s budgetary units have spent makeshift camp for internally dis- being sold to old men to solve the mentation of the law and justice. that those who claim to be front corruption bodies have been accus- di. Some MPs meanwhile said the almost 75 percent of their devel- placed persons (IDPs) outside the economic issues...of their families." “Corruption and injustice hin- runners in bringing about reform, ing the government of manipulat- national budget document is under opment budgets. The MoF western city of Herat, where tat- Mohammad Hanif is another ders the implementation of the shouldn’t have a negative impres- ing these laws. (TOLONews) assessment and that they will ap- spokesman Shamroz Khan Masji- tered tents dot the rocky desert. resident of the camp outside Her- prove it after their assessments are di said that by the end of the year, "I had no money, and I needed at. He, too, says he was compelled done. “It is in the financial and development budget spending will to feed my family," he adds. "I did to sell a daughter -- his 5-month- budget commission and the bud- reach at least 80 percent. He said it out of hunger." old -- to ensure the survival of his getary units are under assess- that this year, government has Mohammad, who is in his family. Hanif, a farmer also from Mazar-i-Sharif- ments. I hope the commission will managed to collect over 174 bil- 30s, said he sold his daughter for Badghis, says he was forced to finish its work soon,” said Sadiqi lion AFs from domestic revenues 150,000 afghanis (around $2,000) leave his home and seek shelter in Zada Nili, member of financial and which also surpasses the previous to a buyer he does not name. He the camp in Herat because of the Europe air budget commission of the Wolesi year’s target. Masjidi said that kept his other child, a 4-year-old devastating drought. He lost his Jirga. An economic affairs analyst, along with an increase in budget son. For now, Mohammad can still crops and his livelihood. Abdul Wase Haidari, meanwhile spending this year, government has spend time with his daughter, a Akhtar Mohammad, a farmer corridor to be work on a number of development been able to increase revenue col- red-haired toddler who sports from Badghis Province, sold his 2- projects will face problems if the lections from domestic resources ragged, traditional clothing. He has year-old daughter for around national budget is not approved by 14 percent compared to a year received half of the money from $2,000. "I did it out of hunger," he ahead of the fiscal year. before. the buyer and will hand her over says. launched soon for good when he gets the rest in Akhtar Mohammad, a farmer the next few weeks. from Badghis Province, sold his 2- An air corridor between Mazar-i- vide work opportunity for people "My only other option was year-old daughter for around Sharif, the capital of northern in addition to paving the way for to beg on the streets," explains $2,000. "I did it out of hunger," he Balkh province, and Europe is be- products manufactured in Afghan- Mohammad, dressed in a red says. He sold his only daughter ing launched, a trader representa- istan to be sold at higher price. checkered cap and brown robes. for 120,000 afghanis (around tive said on Sunday. Naseer Ah- Meanwhile, businessmen in "But even then, it wouldn't have $1,600) a few months ago. His mad Qasami, head of the Balkh Balkh said they were counting been enough." daughter will also remain with them Chamber of Commerce and Indus- hours and minutes for the opening 'We Sold Her At This Camp' until the buyer pays the sum in try, told Pajhwok Afghan products of the Mazar-i-Sharif-Europe Air The UN's children's agency full, he says. of the northern zone would be flied Corridor as they believed the fa- (UNICEF) has said at least 161 "She was born in this camp and to European countries thought the cility would help accelerate busi- children between the ages of 1 we sold her at this camp," says Mazar-i-Sharif-Europe air corri- ness activities. month and 16 years were either Hanif, sitting in a tiny tent with While the US Special Represen- dor. Haji Ghausuddin, representa- betrothed or married off in ex- his wife as she nurses the infant, tative for Afghanistan Reconcilia- He said efforts for launching the tive of Rashid Khalid Business change for a dowry, or sold out- wrapped in a dirty blanket. tion Ambassador Zalmay Kha- corridor had been stepped up and Company, said the opening of the right by their parents from July to "Did I have a choice? You tell lilzad was in Moscow to discuss would be formally inaugurated Mazar-i-Sharif-Europe Air Corri- October in the provinces of me," adds Hanif. the Afghan peace process with soon. He said the Balkh Chamber dor would help improve trade ties Badghis and neighboring Herat. 'Giving Up One Or More Chil- Russian officials, Russia did not of Commerce had started register- with the European countries. UNICEF said parents were using dren' The Department of Refugees give a vote in favor of a UN reso- ing companies who wanted to ex- He said currently the main the money to pay off debts or to and Repatriations says nearly lution on Afghanistan’s situation. port their products through the cor- problem of Afghan businessmen buy food. The legal marriage age 12,000 families who have left their The adopted resolution that ridor to European countries. was no access to European mar- for girls is 16 and 18 for men, but homes live in squalid camps out- pledge continued support to Af- Carpets, products made of kets. He said the expansion of trade child marriage is common in rural side Herat's provincial capital, ghanistan in rebuilding state, elim- animal skin, dried fruits, saffron linkages would positively impact Afghanistan. Herat city. Many have moved inating terrorism and narcotics and and herbal plants will be exported the economy of Afghanistan. A makeshift refugee camp there from all over northwestern supporting Afghan peace process through the corridor to Europe. But Shah Zamin, owner of Sa- where thousands of families driv- Afghanistan because it is easier to was approved by the United Na- “There is more demand for made- far Company in Balkh, believed Turkmenistan on Friday said it Friday in Pakistan's Ministry of en from their homes by a devas- access aid and services. tional General Assembly on De- in Afghanistan carpets in Europe- exporting goods through air corri- wishes to have the TAPI gas pipe- Petroleum. The TAPI pipeline tating drought live outside the city "We have 11,954 families that cember 6. The resolution, titled an markets, now unfortunately dors was expensive and least prof- line inaugural ceremony to be held project and mutual cooperation of Herat. UNICEF says incidenc- have been registered here in Her- The Situation in Afghanistan, was Pakistan is sending carpets as Af- itable. He said the government in March 2019 in Pakistan and among members of the project es of child marriage and child-sell- at," says Abdul Hamid, the head approved by 124 votes in favor ghanistan product to international should concentrate on land routes. launch construction work side on were discussed at the meeting, the ing, which are not unheard of in of the office. "We have given these and three abstentions from Lib- markets.” He said sea routes were most its side by next year, Pakistani report said. Sarwar said that first the most impoverished and con- families tents, clothes, cooking ya, Russia and Zimbabwe. Rus- Qasami said the corridor’s inexpensive option for trade glo- media reported. inter-government agreement of servative areas of the war-torn utensils, and food." sia’s permanent representative in opening would help prevent the bally followed by land routes. Pakistan Today says in a re- TAPI was signed in 2010, thus this country, have been exacerbated by International and local aid or- United Nations Vasily Nebenzya Pakistani practice and business- Currently Afghan business- port that Muhammetmyrat project should be completed at the a devastating drought. ganizations have been distributing said in the draft resolution, repre- men would have direct access to men dispatch their exports through Amanov, CEO, TAPI Pipeline earliest. TAPI Limited desires to UNICEF says around 223,000 food, water, and blankets. But res- sentatives of a number of coun- Afghanistan made carpets. Kabul and Kandahar airports to Company Ltd met Ghulam Sarwar have an inaugural ceremony in people have been uprooted from idents say many of them have yet tries have ignored Russia’s role in He said the Mazar-i-Sharif- international markets. Khan, Federal Minister for Petro- March 2019 in Pakistan, the re- their homes in the drought-hit west- to receive assistance. pushing the Taliban to the peace Europe Air Corridor would pro- (pajhwok) leum and Natural Resources on port said. ern provinces of Herat, Badghis, "We have been here for the last negotiations table. The Russian and Ghor this year. five months and the government envoy said the resolution text must “The extremely early child has not done anything to help us," reflect the current realities on the marriages or sale of children is says Mohammad, who lives with ground in Afghanistan and that it symptom of a deeper and more his wife, children, and elderly fa- should reflect the collective ap- complex social problem related to ther in a tent constructed from proaches of the international com- poverty, lack of employment and dirty sheets of plastic. "We're still munity to find a settlement in livelihoods, and social norms. Its waiting for help." (RFERL) Afghanistan. (TOLONews)

KABUL: Meshrano Jirga or Sen- discuss the issue with the Presi- ber of the political parties was in- ate members on Sunday expressed dent during his meeting. cluded in the current team. concern over the fencing of Du- “Allowing the fence on Duran Therefore, he said political rand Line and stressed inclusion Line is something the people of parties did not recognize the dele- of political parties representatives Afghanistan have to decide and the gation to represent the nation. in government delegation for peace nation will never give their land to Senator Rahmatullah Achakzai talks with the Taliban. someone else,” he said. said: “The Taliban have more is- The upper house members Political parties’ inclusion in sues with political parties than the also demanded immediate mea- peace talks: government and that’s why we sures to rescue those trapped in Earlier, the Grand National want inclusion of political parties the Pashtunkot district of north- Alliance said President Ashraf representatives in the delegation.” western Faryab province. Ghani wanted to keep the peace Others lawmakers also de- Rahmatullah Achakzai, a law- process under his control in case it manded inclusion of political par- maker from Kandahar province, went successful, adding the con- ties in the negotiation team. without giving details, said Paki- flict in Afghanistan was not linked Situation in Pashtunkot dis- stani forces continued to fence the to the government, but the gov- trict: Durand Line --- a process to be ernment was a part of the crisis. Gul Mohammad Rasouli, a completed until the end of next Fazal Rahman Orya, a senior lawmaker from Faryab province, year. Senate Chairman Fazal Hadi member of the grand alliance, said said some families had been be- Muslimyar said the fencing of the president before announcing sieged by the Taliban in Sar Houza Durand Line was not acceptable his 12-member team for peace area of Pashunkot district and they to the people of Afghanistan and talks, had assured political leaders were dire need of help. He said so that they had been against it from in meetings that their suggestions far some elderly persons and chil- the beginning. He said he would would be considered, but no mem- dren had lost their lives. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Minster Women's reservation in Parliament, Thapa vows to state legislatures need of the hour, dismantle says NCPchief Sharad Pawar syndicate system

fa cilit ies d ep ict

Minister of Home Affairs Ram Bahadur Thapa today said the govt 's fa ilu r e: C J P government was preparing to dismantle the syndicate sys- Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) to a wealthy patient upon his ar- tem in other areas as it had done Mian Saqib Nisar has said draft of rival”. “I went to the Christian in the transport sector. a new law for the health sector has Hospital Lahore. Once this was a Addressing the first central been sent to the government and it great hospital but now it has been assembly of Nepal Public is now the government’s respon- fallen into ruins. I also went to Transport Pvt Ltd Coordination sibility to implement it. “Health- private hospitals. I was told that Committee in Kathmandu to- care, heart stent and prices of med- there was no one there to teach. I day, the home minister said that icines and fees have been fixed. wonder who are the people that syndicate system benefited Now a new formula for the pricing we hand over our children to? Se- only a handful of people and it of medicines will have to be set nior doctors should take notice of must be dismantled if the coun- after the recent increases in the this situation.” The CJP said he try was to be made prosperous. price of dollar,” said the CJP while decided to take notice of the health “An end to syndicate in addressing the concluding session sector because of the sickness of public transport sector was ur- of a two-day workshop on com- his mother. “My mother had al- gent for prosperity of entrepre- plete treatment of paralysis at the ways been ill. We had been taking neurs and convenience of the Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiolo- her to all places for treatment. Once Mumbai: Nationalist Congress bai, Pawar said: "Women's reser- er to ensure reservations are given ministrative activities and try to gy on Saturday. The top judge said: we felt that she will not survive. public,” he said and added that Party (NCP) president Sharad vation is important. It should be to women. "The government grab opportunities at different lev- “Guidelines for the machinery of We took her to a doctor. He treat- some legal hurdles still persist- Pawar on Saturday said women's given on priority consideration by should give at least 33 percent res- els. Furthermore, highlighting the the hospitals have been given. The ed her with affection and attention. ed for the effective management reservation in the Lok Sabha, all parties. Reservation for wom- ervation to women if 50 percent problems faced by Adivasi and Supreme Court will continue to She recovered.” He said if doctors in the public transport sector. Vidhan Sabha, and Vidhan Parishad en in the Vidhan Sabha, Vidhan isn't possible," he added. Stating women from backward classes, fulfil its constitutional responsi- treat patients as a mission, “results A version of this article appears is the need of the hour. Addressing Parishad, and Lok Sabha is the need that he is not happy with the cur- Pawar said, "Adivasi and backward bilities for the basic needs of the are good”, adding that according to in print on December 09, 2018 a gathering on the issue of wom- of the hour." The NCP president rent participation of women at the class women seem to be suffering people.” Justice Nisar said, “Pro- a Chinese physician there were of The Himalayan Times. en's empowerment at the Yash- further said that leaders from dif- administrative level, Pawar asked a lot due to gender discrimination. viding free treatment to the poor three types of doctors – quack, (BBC) wantrao Chavan Centre in Mum- ferent parties should come togeth- women to participate more in ad- I want their issues. is responsibility of the state,” add- normal and the one who pays real ing that poor health facilities de- attention. “Patients lose everything picted teh government’s failure. while under treatment of the first Zulfi Bukhari case: CJP takes two,” he added. He said Dr Huma exception to PM’s remarks Cheema of the Children Hospital B a n g l a d e sh p a r t y say s h u n d r e d s He said he visited all major Lahore met him and said there were hospitals of the country. “But hos- 13 children in her ward who need pitals do not have basic equipment liver transplant. Their mothers for treatment. Even the ventilators were ready to donate their livers o f su p p o r t e r s h e l d b e f o r e p o l l s are out of order and the ones that and funds were also available but Bangladesh's opposition party didates had also been detained be- are working serve the wealthy and India and China were not giving Sunday said nearly 2,000 of its fore official campaigning begins influential.” He said during his visit visas. “When I asked I was told supporters have been arrested on Monday. "Six of them are still in to a Peshawar hospital, he saw that liver transplant facility is not trumped-up charges in a crack- the jail," said the official, who de- three patients on one bed. “I asked available in Pakistan. Then I took down aimed at derailing its cam- clined to be named. Police have the chief secretary to explain this. notice which gave positive results,” paign just weeks from a general said those arrested had outstand- He said the hospital did not have he said, adding that right now only election. The Bangladesh Nation- ing warrants or were wanted over enough beds.” The CJP said in such the rich or the influential could af- alist Party, which is seeking to un- alleged connections to ongoing cas- a hospital the ventilator serving a ford treatment in Pakistan. seat Prime Minister Sheikh Hasi- es. Ahmed denied this, saying the poor man “is removed and given (Tribune) na on December 30, said at least crackdown was a political "blue- 1,972 party officials and grassroots print" by the ruling party to in- campaigners had been detained timidate its opponents. "The gov- since the election was announced ernment wants to hold a lopsided Sri Lanka President a month ago. The arrests are yet election. These arrests are just to another blow for a beleaguered create fear among the people, so admits Mahinda opposition whose leader Khaleda that they don't go to vote," he said. Zia has been jailed for corruption The opposition also accused po- and barred from running against lice officials in Chittagong, a south- Rajapaksa bribing arch-rival Hasina, who is seeking a ern city, of campaigning on behalf third consecutive term. The oppo- of the Awami League. Police in the sition boycotted the 2014 election, port city denied the allegations. MPs to show majority saying it was rigged against Zia in The arrests further hinder an al- favour of Hasina and her ruling ready battered alliance of opposi- Awami League party. BNP tion parties, led by the BNP, which spokesman Rizvi Ahmed told AFP have seen their core leadership the majority of party cadres jailed on charges they say are fab- rounded up since late November ricated. Zia, a two-time former in the police sweep were still be- prime minister and friend-turned- hind bars. "They have filed hun- foe to Hasina, was last month or- dreds of ghost, or fictitious cases, dered by a court to stay behind chief political threat. Zia's son, a er loyalists have been arrested or didate to run against Hasina, against our party workers and lead- bars for a decade for graft. Her sup- potential heir to the BNP throne, jailed, party officials say. Just a whose rule has been marred by al- ers," he said. Another party offi- porters say the charges are politi- was sentenced in absentia to life month from the polls, the BNP has legations of rights abuses and in- cial said at least 11 opposition can- cally motivated to stymie Hasina's behind bars while hundreds of oth- not announced an alternative can- tolerance for dissent.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala "If Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa could Sirisena has openly admitted that show the majority of 113, this prob- his Prime Minister appointee lem would not have been dragged Mahinda Rajapaksa has attempt- for one and half months and there ed to bribe parliamentarians to won't be any political crisis," he show majority in the House and said. The President assured that said that the current crisis is a re- the Supreme Court's decision on sult of his failure to gather 113 the petitions against the dissolu- Minister for Railways Sheikh who was silent during the process pened. “Whosoever performs bet- MPs. In an interview with Daily tion of parliament will resolve the Rashid has alleged that former has now decided to break all his ter, public will choose them as their Mirror, President Sirisena said he political crisis. If the court ruling prime minister Nawaz Sharif broke silence since no NRO was given to representative,” he said, adding believes that Mahinda Rajapaksa agrees with his decision to dissolve his silence on the backdrop of a Sharif brothers. He said Shehbaz that all dacoits are against early couldn't show majority because parliament, elections can be held failure to reach a National Recon- is enjoying his dungeon, where doc- elections as they know people of MPs demanded millions as high as and the problem will be solved. ciliation Ordinance (NRO) like deal tors recommended a nice tempera- Pakistan would once again vote for Rs. 500 million to crossover. "I If the court decides that the with the establishment. Address- ture with other facilities coupled the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf heard some bargained themselves parliament cannot be dissolved then ing a press conference on Satur- with frequent visits to the Nation- (PTI). He said the army and the for sums as high as Rs 500 million. he has to let the majority of the day, he said Nawaz Sharif was not al Assembly. “I would never ap- judiciary are fully supporting the Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa could not parliament to decide on a govern- enthusiastic about a fresh attempt ply for a bail if I got such wonder- government to solve the crucial sit- gather the majority because of such ment with a prime minister he to strike a deal but his younger ful facilities in jail,” he added. Re- uation faced by the county. There high price tags quoted by the MPs, agrees to appoint, the President brother Shehbaz Sharif tried his ferring to the recent statement of is no doubt that army is support- if not for that, he could have got- said. However, President Sirisena best to reach an NRO. “My old Prime Minister Imran Khan regard- ing the incumbent government and ten the majority," the President once again reiterated that he will friend Shehbaz Sharif was dying ing early elections, he said the they want country to come out of said. The President said the cur- not appoint UNP leader and oust- for an NRO but he failed,” the min- country would not begin its plum- this socio-economic mess, he said. rent political crisis was due to Ra- ed Prime Minister Ranil Wickre- ister said, adding the elder Sharif met into a chaos if such thing hap- (Tribune) japaksa's failure to show majority. mesinghe as the Prime Minister.

Reacting to the incident, party spokesperson and national general secretary Gosavi has been ad- Avinash Mahatekar blamed local police for not making enough security mitted to a hospital. FIR registered arrangements for the party leader’s visit. against him, investiga- tion on. (08.12) Republic Party Of India (RPI) He will be arrested later and will venue. There was not enough Bhagwan Bhalerao, president Ramdas Athawale be produced in court. A case security arrangements made by president, RPI party, Ul- was slapped by an unidentified was being registered at the the local police despite him hasnagar, said, a bandh person during an event at Ne- time of going to press. having Z plus security cover will be called on Sunday taji ground in Ambernath on Reacting to the incident, as a Union minister,” Mahatekar to protest against the Friday. party spokesperson and na- said. incident. The man, Pravin Gosavi, tional general secretary Avi- #WATCH Maha: People “The bandh will be who was stopped from further nash Mahatekar blamed local thrash Pravin Gosavi, a worker imposed in Ambernath, attacking Athawale is injured police for not making enough of the youth wing of Republi- Ulhasnagar and Kalyan. as more than 20 to 30 people security arrangements for the can Party of India, who We have demanded the beat him. He has been admit- party leader’s visit. slapped Union Minister & par- police take strict action ted to a nearby hospital and is “The incident occurred ty leader Ramdas Athawale at against the person.” out of danger, said the police. while Athawale was leaving the an event in Thane y'day. (Hindustan times) MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Iran arrests 10 suspects over deadly suicide attack A US Air Force jet carried out a rare observation Iranian security forces have de- flight over Ukraine on Thursday to “reaffirm US tained 10 people suspected of commitment” to Kiev after Russia attacked and links to a recent suicide attack in the country's southeast, police seized three Ukrainian Navy vessels last month, it say. "Good clues have been ob- has been confirmed. tained and hopefully with the public's cooperation...we will get The US Department of Defence been carried out to show support to the main leads," the official has taken a clear stance over the to Ukraine as tensions keep grow- news agency IRNA quoted po- ongoing tensions between Mos- ing with the Kremlin. The “ex- lice chief Hossein Ashtari as say- cow and Kiev, the Wall Street Jour- traordinary” nature of this flyover ing on December 9. More sus- nal wrote. The US Air Force OC- is in the fact that it was requested pects have been identified and were being sought, he added. 135 observation plane was flown by the arms control directorate of At least two police officers were near Crimea, the Ukrainian region the General Staff of Ukraine’s killed and around 40 other peo- seized by Russia in 2014, the Pen- armed forces. This is the second ple were wounded in a Decem- tagon said. US, Canadian, German, time in two days the US military ber 6 assault in which an explo- French, UK, Romanian and Ukrai- make a move that Russia could see sives-laden car exploded outside nian observers were all aboard. as provocative. On Wednesday the police headquarters in the port The last time the US carried out a US Navy sent its USS McCamp- city of Chabahar. The Sunni jiha- similar military exercise was after bell, a guided missile destroyer, dist group Ansar al-Furqan the Russian invasion of Ukraine through the Sea of Japan, “in the claimed responsibility for the at- four years ago, US defence official vicinity of Peter the Great Bay”, tack. said. The Pentagon branded the the Navy said. This move aimed Sistan-Baluchistan Province, flight “extraordinary” in a state- at “challenging Russia’s excessive where Chabahar is located, has ment, saying it took place under maritime claims” in a demonstra- seen repeated attacks by Sunni the Open Skies Treaty. This ac- tive “freedom of navigation” op- militants against security forces cord gives 34 signatory states the eration, they added. The US ves- in recent years. right to gather information about sel was followed by a Russian de- the military forces and activities stroyer and several warplanes. of another one through military ob- The “challenge” was shrugged Regional crises servation flights. The official pur- off and mocked by the Kremlin, pose of the Treaty is to promote who said on Thursday the vessel cloud Gulf transparency in military activities hadn’t come closer than 62 rules - but in this case it seems to have to Russian territorial waters. Cooperation Council summit Qatar emir Th o u sa n d s p r o t e st i n hosted by skips Saudi-hosted Iran'sPresident Saudi Arabia Gulf summit Se r b i a ov e r a t t a c k o n warnsUSsanctions RIYADH – Saudi Arabia was hosting a summit of Arab Gulf amidboycott o p p o s i t i o n p o l i t i c i a n leaders Sunday as crises brew could increase flow over a bitter diplomatic dispute RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Qa- with Qatar, the war in Yemen tar’s emir is skipping a Gulf sum- and the murder of Saudi journal- of illegal drugs ist Jamal Khashoggi. Qatari Emir mit hosted by Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- which has led a boycott of the Thani has been invited by Riy- country for more than a year. adh, which severed diplomatic Other leaders of the six-na- ties with Doha in 2017 along tion Gulf Cooperation Council with Bahrain and the United descended down a golden esca- Arab Emirates (UAE), to the lator and were greeted by Saudi Gulf Cooperation Council talks. King Salman ahead of Sunday’s But it was unclear if the emir summit. Qatar sent a lower-rank- would attend the annual gather- ing official. ing of the GCC, whose others GCC members Bahrain, members — Kuwait and Oman Saudi Arabia and the United Arab — have stayed out of the worst political fallout between the en- Emirates cut ties with Qatar in ergy-rich Gulf powers. Saudi the summer of 2017 over its sup- Arabia and its allies accuse Qa- port for Islamist opposition tar of supporting terrorism and groups that they view as terror- fostering close ties with their ists. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani try in fighting drug trafficking and regional rival, Iran. Doha — Qatar’s Sheikh Tamim bin Thousands of people rallied peace- said Stefanovic’s assailants were leader and his ruling coalition has a warned Saturday that the United will open doors for illegal drugs which announced this month it Hamad Al Thani attended last fully in downtown Belgrade on arrested shortly after the incident, comfortable majority of 160 dep- States' re-imposed sanctions on into western countries including was quitting the Saudi-dominat- year’s meeting in Kuwait, where Saturday to protest over an attack but opposition figures maintain uties in the 250-seat parliament. Iran will not help his country in the United states. Iranian President on an opposition politician and that his party was involved — Nightclub stampede kills 6 in ed OPEC oil cartel — denies the the boycotting nations sent low- fighting drug trafficking and will Hassan Rouhani warned Saturday allegations, but the dispute has demand policy changes by Presi- something vehemently denied by Italy open doors for illegal drugs into that US re-imposed sanctions on er-level representatives. dent Aleksandar Vucic and his rul- Progressive leaders. “The struggle “Corruption, violence, stifling western countries, including the Iran will not help his country in dragged on. “Qatar has burned Bahrain’s Foreign Minister all the bridges enabling it to take ing Serbian Progressive party. Un- must be waged with loud chanting of press freedoms, they (the Pro- United States. Rouhani made his fighting drug trafficking and will Khalid Al Khalifa tweeted that der the slogan “Stop the bloody against this disgusting, slimy re- gressive party) do it all and Vucic remarks while speaking from Te- open doors for illegal drugs into back” its place within the GCC, Sheikh Tamim should have ac- Bahraini Foreign Minister shirts,” the demonstrators chant- gime,” Branislav Trifunovic, an is their kingpin,” said Radovan hran at an anti-terrorism confer- western countries including the Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmad al- cepted “the fair demands and ed as they marched through the city actor and a protest leader, told the Peric, 49, a mechanic from Bel- ence attended by parliamentary United states. In 2018, Iran's anti- Khalifa said in the run-up to the been there at the summit.” center to condemn the assault on cheering crowd. Opposition activ- grade. Saturday’s rally was called speakers from Afghanistan, Paki- narcotics police forces seized more summit. Copyright 2018 The Asso- Borko Stefanovic, leader of the ists say Vucic is an autocrat and by former Belgrade mayor Dragan stan, Turkey, China and Russia. than 330 tons of illicit drugs across ciated Press. All rights reserved. small Serbian Left party. Stefanov- brand his Serbian Progressive Par- Djilas, leader of the Alliance for Rouhani said "boycotting Iran un- the country, Iranian state media This material may not be pub- ic was attacked by a group of men ty as corrupt. Vucic’s approval rat- Serbia — a heterogeneous group dermines our ability to fight drugs reported According to a United BAHRAIN CRITICISES lished, broadcast, rewritten or re- wearing black clothing on Nov. 23 ings have slipped somewhat since of 30 parties, who described the and terrorism," according to Iran's Nations report, Afghanistan is con- distributed. in the southern city of Krusevac he won a 2016 presidential vote protest as a gathering of citizens state-run Tasnim news. "By mak- sidered a major source of opium, and suffered minor injuries from by a landslide, but he remains the against authoritarian rule. (BBC) ing Iran weaker through sanctions, morphine and heroin for Iran, Pa- QATAR EMIR FOR being beaten with an iron rod. Vucic country’s most popular political (AFP) many people will not be safe. kistan , India and Central Asia. It Those who do not believe what is also the main source of heroin in NOT ATTENDING we say, they had better look at the Europe. "Increased law enforce- map," Rouhani said. The Iranian ment efforts by Iran apparently GULF ARAB SUMMIT president said his country spends restricted Afghan opium exports millions of dollars each year in the and therefore contributed to the Bahrain’s foreign minister criti- fight against drug trafficking, "the decline of opium production," the cized Qatar’s emir on Sunday for results of which guarantees more UN report said. not attending a Gulf Arab sum- health for people from Eastern The United States in Novem- mit in Saudi Arabia, an absence consequences' over Huawei CFO'sarrest Europe to Western America and ber officially reimposed penalties that suggests a rift between Doha sanctions on Iran by telling finan- from Northern Africa to Western that had been lifted as part of the and three Gulf Arab states is cial institutions that a Huawei sub- Asia." "I warn all those who boy- Iranian nuclear deal. The Trump unlikely to be resolved soon. sidiary was a separate company, cott, that if our abilities in fighting administration added nearly 700 Qatar sent its state minister for Canadian prosecutors said at a hear- drugs and terrorism in their origins targets, including 50 Iranian finan- foreign affairs to the annual one- ing Friday to determine whether is undermined, you will not be able cial institutions, to a sanctions list. day summit that is overshad- Meng should be released on bail. to survive the debris of drugs, ref- Trump administration officials owed by the economic and dip- Her lawyer said that she has ties ugees and bombs and assassina- said the reinstated sanctions lomatic boycott of Doha since to Canada and is not a flight risk. tion," Rouhani said. Iran's strate- marked an intensifying effort to mid-2017 by Riyadh, the UAE, The judge, after hearing arguments gic location between Afghanistan strangle Iran's economy to pres- Bahrain and Egypt over allega- from Meng's lawyer and prosecu- and Europe plays a significant role sure the regime to change its ways. tions Doha supports terrorism. tors, did not rule on bail. The hear- in fighting drug trafficking Iranian Any company or country that Qatar denies the charges. “Qa- ing will resume Monday at 1 p.m. President Hassan Rouhani warned does business with Tehran will feel tar’s emir should have accepted ET. Previously, details surround- Saturday that US re-imposed sanc- the sting of US penalties, they the fair demands (of the boycott- ing why Meng, 46, had been de- tions on Iran will not help his coun- said. ing states) and attended the sum- tained were limited due to a press mit,” foreign minister Sheikh ban. A judge had accepted Meng's Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa request to bar both police and pros- C z ech P r es id en t : Ar m s said in a tweet. In response, ecutors from releasing information Ahmed bin Saeed AlRumaihi, about the case prior to the hearing. r a ce t o st a r t if d ea ls director of the information of- The ban was lifted on Friday. or fice at Qatar’s foreign ministry, the Eastern District of New York said: “Qatar can make its own issued a warrant for Meng's arrest lik e I N F a b a n d on ed decisions and had attended (last Beijing (CNN)The Chinese For- on Iran. In a statement Saturday, the detainee immediately and ear- on August 22, it was revealed at year’s) Kuwait summit while the eign Ministry is summoning the the vice minister of the Chinese nestly protest the person's legal the hearing Friday. She was arrest- leaders of the boycotting coun- Canadian ambassador to China to Foreign Ministry Le Yucheng said and legitimate rights and interests, ed on December 1. Huawei 'not tries did not.” The Gulf Coop- address the detention of a Huawei the arrest "severely violated the otherwise it will definitely have aware of any wrongdoing' Earlier eration Council’s (GCC) summit executive in Vancouver, describing Chinese citizen's legal and legiti- serious consequences, and the Ca- this week, Huawei said Meng was of six member states was set to it as "lawless" and "extremely vi- mate rights and interests, it is law- nadian side will have to bear the detained by Canadian authorities open in Riyadh on Sunday at a cious." The tech giant's chief fi- less, reasonless and ruthless, and full responsibility for it," Yucheng on behalf of the United States time when the country is under nancial officer, Meng Wanzhou, it is extremely vicious." The state- said in the statement. when she was transferring flights pressure over the murder of jour- was arrested December 1 and fac- ment summons Canadian ambas- Arrest warrant issued in Au- in Canada. In a statement after Fri- nalist Jamal Khashoggi in Octo- es extradition to the United States, sador to China John McCallum to gust day's hearing in Canada, Huawei ber at the kingdom’s Istanbul where she is accused of helping address Meng's detention. China Meng is believed to have said: "We will continue to follow consulate. Saudi TV showed Huawei circumvent US sanctions strongly urges Canada to "release helped Huawei circumvent US the bail hearing on Monday. King Salman greeting officials from the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait on Belgiumsetsupminoritygovernment after migrationdisputebreakscoalition their arrival. The summit is ex- pected to focus on oil politics, Belgian Prime Minister Charles day night. Michel on Sunday re- doesn't have a parliamentary ma- Czech President Milos Zeman believes that there is a solution for the security issues including Ye- Michel rushed to reshuffle his gov- placed ministers from the New jority without the Flemish nation- Russian-US standoff around the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces men’s war and Iran’s regional ernment and stave off its collapse Flemish Alliance (N-VA), includ- alists, raising the possibility he (INF) Treaty. "If there are technical characteristics of these missiles activities and Qatar, which says Sunday morning as his tenuous ing Interior Minister Jan Jambon may not be able to finish his man- that violate this agreement either from the Russian or from the US side, the trade and transport boycott pact with Flemish nationalists fi- and Secretary of State for Asylum date. Belgium faces regional, fed- it’s very simple to show these characteristics and agree. Of course, I aims to curtail its sovereignty. nally reached a breaking point over and Migration Theo Francken, lo- eral and European elections in May. want all agreements to exist, because without these agreements there Doha last week abruptly an- an international migration pact. cal media reported. Health Minis- The N-VA on Saturday formally will be an arms race," Milos Zeman told the Vesti Nedeli show on nounced it was exiting the oil Michel met with King Philippe of ter Maggie De Block, a liberal, will broke ranks over the U.N. migra- Russia's NTV broadcaster. The statement comes after US State Secre- exporters’ group OPEC after 57 Belgium Sunday morning to seek a take over the migration portfolio, tion compact, an international tary Mike Pompeo said on Tuesday that the United States would years to focus on gas in an ap- royal decree to reorganize his gov- and Pieter De Crem, from the agreement the Belgian parliament, suspend its adherence to the INF Treaty in 60 days unless Russia parent swipe at the bloc’s de fac- ernment without the New Flem- CD&V party, will take over as in- minus the N-VA and far-right returned to full compliance with the agreement. Russia, on its part, has to leader Saudi Arabia.. Kuwait’s ish Alliance (N-VA). The party's terior minister, L'Echo reported Vlaams Belang, has committed to denied the allegations and, in response, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei objection to the U.N. Global Com- Sunday. Michel will remain in signing but that has attracted strong Lavrov stated on Friday that Washington's claims that Moscow has ties with Riyadh are also breached the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty were strained over control of shared. pact on Migration forced the rul- place as prime minister for now. criticism from right and far-right ing coalition to break apart Satur- But his "orange-blue" coalition parties across Europe. groundless, as tests of the Russian 9M729 missile system were carried. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

We a r e a n a t ion a l in st it u t ion a n d n ot t h e voice of a gov t or a p r iva t e or ga n iza t ion AFGHANISTAN TIMES Editor: Mansoor Ahmad Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 E-mail: [email protected] inter-generational transition” was the epicentre of this war, Pa- myopia in Pakistan’s Afghan pol- never internalised the Amendment. By Mazhar Khan Jadoon shtuns of this area bore the brunt icy. The resurgence of Taliban in Every major reform has teething of the destruction. Sandwiched Afghanistan will definitely lead to problems. Genuine issues regard- “Political workers can be unfairly between the army and the militants their resurgence in Pakistan as well. ing the 18th Constitutional Email: [email protected] expelled from a political party but these people have suffered the It’s strange that the movers and Amendment can be discussed in a www.afghanistantimes.af they can’t be expelled from poli- most. Pashtun Tahaffuz Move- shakers of the country’s Afghan democratic spirit but any subver- Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi tics. We shall steadfastly continue ment is the non-violent political policy haven’t learnt any lesson sion of the federal character of the struggle against all forms of op- uprising against war and tyranny. from the not-so-old experience. system through questionable pression, suppression & exploita- Unfortunately, the traditional na- Those who are gloating over Paki- means can be disastrous for the Advisory editorial board tion,” says a November 12, 2018 tionalist political parties failed in stan’s role in bringing Taliban to federation. TNS: What do you tweet by Afrasiab Khattak, in re- raising effective voice against the the negotiations don’t see the fact make of FATA’s merger with KP Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, Dr. Omar sponse to a recent decision of his forces bringing war, destruction that by doing so Pakistan formal- and what more needs to be done? party concerning his own expul- and oppression. Traditional na- ly accepts its role as patron of AK: Theoretically the erst- Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir sion. He is a leftwing politician, tionalist organisations also failed Taliban who are known to have while FATA has been merged in former senator and ex-provincial to respond to the significant socio hosted the most dangerous inter- Pakhtunkhwa but practically it’s Graphic-Designers: president of the Awami National historical changes in society. For national terror networks. The pos- living in a legal and administrative Party. TNS interviews the senior example, youth bulge is a demo- sibility of getting sucked into Mid- limbo as the reforms aren’t imple- Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada politician with years of struggle for graphic reality. We are at a point dle Eastern conflict is yet another mented. There are four major hur- Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: human rights and parliamentary of inter-generational transition. serious challenge. The recent ab- dles. One, complete opening up of democracy to know his views My generation has played its in- duction of Iranian security guards the former FATA districts will not Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0782344728, 0778894038 about the current state of politics, ning. The driving seat belongs to by militants operating from Paki- be possible as long as it is used for security concerns and foreign pol- young leaders now. Similarly, the stani soil reflects the magnitude of war in Afghanistan. Entry into the Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan icy. The News on Sunday: How ever expanding urbanisation and the threat. Achieving normal rela- area is still restricted even for the do you look at the current politi- the rise of new middle classes can tionship with neighbours should locals by the security institutions. Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 cal scenario, especially in terms of be ignored by political parties at be the top priority which can be Two, there is a huge black econo- political parties as institutions as their own peril. Landed gentry is a achieved by paying attention to my which includes drug traffick- Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press well as the freedoms allowed to spent force. So, traditional nation- geo-economic rather than getting ing, gun running and commodity civil society? Where are we head- alist organisations will either go for bogged down in geo-strategic. smuggling. There’s a strong inter- ed? Afrasiab Khattak: We have seen introspection and change or will TNS: Do you see an insidious cam- est guarding the status quo. So far growing pressure on the democrat- face irrelevance. PTI is the benefi- paign against the 18th Constitu- there is nothing on the paper for a The constitution says ic system from anti-democratic ciary of both the political engineer- tional Amendment by some sec- transition from an economy of forces over the last few years. Ex- ing by the deep state recently ex- tions of the government and es- mismanagement into an economy pansion of de facto at the cost of perienced in Pakistani politics and tablishment? What is the signifi- of management. Three, building de jure has been the hallmark of also the failure of traditional na- cance of this amendment for the physical and intellectual infrastruc- Article 106: the pre and post-election political tionalist organisations. The 18th federation? AK: The insidious ture to take proper judicial, execu- The quorum for voting of each House of the National Assembly shall be complete with the majority developments in the country dur- amendment has definitely annoyed campaign against the 18th Consti- tive and financial institutions of the presence of members and decisions shall be taken with the majority of votes of members present, unless this ing the current year. The trend is the circles in the federation who tutional Amendment is the contin- state into the area requires money Constitution states otherwise. also reflected in new curbs on free- were in the habit of dipping their uation of attack on the constitu- (3 per cent of NFC Award) which dom of expression which is the hand in the federal kitty to take tional order that started with the has yet to be made available. Four, mother of all democratic freedoms. out as much as they would like. dissolution of the first Constitu- there have been problems with Efforts at undermining the ef- TNS: What is the role of women ent Assembly of Pakistan in 1954 shaping in proper implementation fective role of political parties have in ANP? Who represents the fe- by Governor General Ghulam mechanism for the reforms. The been accompanied by hounding of male face of the party after Bushra Mohammad. Pakistan got disinte- bureaucracy that has a strong vest- NGOs and making a mockery of Gohar? AK: Bacha Khan, the grated in the process in 1971 but ed interest in maintaining the sta- the autonomy of university cam- founder of the modern Pashtun na- no lessons are learnt. The federal tus quo is still calling the shots. In puses. The aim to impose author- tionalist movement in the 20th cen- democratic system shaped by the the current scenario the people are itarian narrative under the guise of tury was first and foremost a so- 1973 Constitution was never ac- totally powerless. For example, patriotism is to eliminate alterna- cial reformer. Apart from preach- cepted by the anti-democratic forc- after the end of May there is no tive narratives and dissent. Unfor- ing non-violence he also focused es. The two martial laws that fol- judicial system in the area with a tunately, most of the political par- on spreading education and social lowed the promulgation of the population of armed ten millions. ties have failed to stand up to the equality. He actually redefined and 1973 Constitution imposed seri- The old system became infructu- authoritarian onslaught against modernised Pashtunwali, the tra- ous distortions and deformations ous and the new one is yet to be freedom of expression. The aggres- ditional tribal way of life. Bacha on it with the aim of replacing the built. TNS: The phenomenon of sive campaign of selective account- Khan underlined the significance federal character of the Constitu- religious militancy is taking a new ability has effectively been used of educating girls and the inclusion tion with a unitary one and the shape and expanding with the to silence the traditional political of women in politics. ANP has that parliamentary system with a pres- Barelvi brand of Islamists now also elite. Except PTM (Pashtun Tahaf- legacy and in the recent years in- idential one. The 18th Amendment vying for space in national poli- fuz Movement), there is no sign cluded women in mainstream or- tried to restore the original 1973 tics. Where will all this lead us? of politics of resistance. Actually, ganisational structure rather than Constitution by eliminating the AK: The recent mutinous acts by political parties as institutions going for tokenism in the name of aforementioned distortions and de- TLP, a religious extremist outfit, he US ambassador to Afghanistan, Mr. John R. Bass, have been considerably weakened women wing. But the deeply-en- formations. The chapter on human indicate the rise of new forms of not just by state repression but trenched patriarchy hampers such rights has been strengthened by the bigotry and fanaticism. Tradition- has made it clear that US making all out efforts to con also by their own internal degen- efforts and we experienced resis- addition of three more fundamen- al Deobandi school, which is now eration. For any meaningful change tance against inclusion of women tal rights in the list. President’s deeply impacted by Middle East- vince the warring Afghan factions to go for internal di- in the country parties will have to in decision-making bodies. Yes, power to dissolve the elected as- ern extremist ideological trends, start from internal sociopolitical re- Bushra Gohar proved her mettle sembly was brought back to the was known for its large-scale in- alogues, which could be the suitable way out for resolving of forms to develop the capacity to inside and outside the parliament parliament. Concurrent List was volvement in Jihadist activities. push back this creeping fascism. as a political stalwart. Luckily, we abolished and more power was de- Using the vast financial resources long standing conflict. In recent days, certain media sections Dynastic and patronage politics have had Jamila Gilani and a num- volved to the federating units and strength of religious seminar- will have to be replaced by demo- ber of other women political ac- (provinces) in accordance with the ies it had also developed consider- in and outside Afghanistan reported that Taliban Office in Qatar cratic practices and meritocracy to tivists and leaders. Let’s hope they intent of the framers of the Con- able political clout. It is still stub- is willing to talk with US but it is reluctant to talk with the strengthen political parties and to are given the space they deserve. stitution and the spirit of the fed- bornly guarding its political turf. develop a democratic culture. That will be one of the factors de- eral system. It lays down a demo- In recent years, the Barelvi Afghan government. Such a statement resulted for heated de- TNS: How do you look at the Pa- ciding the future of Pashtun na- cratic foundation for nation build- school, predominant among Sunni shtuns’ concerns which are articu- tionalist organisations. TNS: At ing and state building project in Muslims of Pakistan, also decided bate not only inside Afghanistan but also throughout the world lated somewhat in Pashtun Tahaf- the Faiz Festival in Lahore, you Pakistan. It’s a win win situation to politicise its sectarian influence. fuz Movement and yet the people referred to the foreign policy chal- for all sides as it strengthens the Unfortunately, after Zia’s martial in countries and forums desirous for an early to end violence of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa massive- lenges faced by Pakistan. The re- country by removing the grievanc- law religious extremism has made ly voted for Pakistan Tehreek-i- gion is in the grip of terrorist at- es of the population wise smaller inroads in state institutions and has and hostilities in Afghanistan. For the purpose of getting an Insaf. If the two represent diver- tacks once again. Would you like provinces through recognising successfully influenced state poli- gent thoughts, where does the ANP to dwell on it a little? AK: Foreign their control over their resources. cies. The failure of the state in im- early negotiated, acceptable and durable solution to over four stand? AK: The four decades long policy of a country, as we know, Provincial governments are respon- plementing National Action Plan military conflict in Afghanistan has is the reflection of its internal pol- sible for socio-economic develop- (NAP) for curbing extremism and decades Afghan conflict, US Special Dr. Zalmay Khalilzad left a devastating impact on Pash- icy. Pakistan’s economic depen- ment and no one will be able to terrorism approved by all and sun- tuns on both sides of the Durand dence on other countries has been blame Islamabad for the lack of dry in 2014 is the most significant making frequent flights to the region in recent days. Almost Line. The colossal losses in terms the most formidable hurdle on the development. It’s obviously good proof of the state failure on this Afghans are attaching great hopes with these peace efforts and of human lives, properties and cul- path of adopting an independent for national unity. But it has defi- front. ture are debilitating. There is a foreign policy. The rise of religious nitely annoyed the circles in the As if this wasn’t enough the praying for success of Khalilzad peace mission. But unfortu- growing realisation among Pash- extremism and militancy in the federation who were in the habit banned outfits, that were sup- tuns about the fraud imposed on country has comprehensively de- of dipping their hand in federal kit- posed to be stopped to work un- nately the recent reports regarding alleged reluctance on the them in the name of Jihad by big railed Pakistani internal and exter- ty to take out as much as they der new names, were allowed to powers and local players. They nal policies. Before Zia’s martial would like. Another important as- horizontally expand under the garb part of Taliban leaders are generating too much rumors and feel that they were used as cannon law, Pakistan was well known for pect of 18th Amendment is of “mainstreaming” during the re- fodder in the not so great games. its good quality cotton exports in strengthening of Article 6 which cent elections. This policy failure apprehensions. However, US ambassador said the US is not They think that religious extrem- the world. But afterwards it has has closed the doors for direct mil- still remains an unmitigated disas- ism and militancy was injected into been regarded as hub of terrorism. itary coups. The problem is that ter. Religious extremism and mili- negotiating on behalf of the Afghan government as he pointed their body politic for deconstruc- This negative perception has re- civil and military bureaucracies, tancy poses an existential threat tion of their historical and cultural sulted in international isolation of mainly hailing from the popula- to Pakistani state. at the efforts by the United States on Afghan peace. Such a identity. Since the former FATA the country. It’s scary to see the tion-wise largest province, have (Thenews) clarification confirms the US sense of urgency to see negotia- tions begin between Afghans because they see the overwhelm- ing demand for peace. Return of peace and stability is not only beneficial to Afghanistan and its people but is also in favour of all those members of international community sincerely wants peace. Frequent visits on the part of US now confirm that President Donald Trump is eager for an early resolution to long standing Afghan conflict. Afghans have already been time and again reaffirmed their stance on early return of peace and ending of hostilities on their soil. But they are facing hard- ships from certain other neighbouring and regional countries including Pakistan. US President Donald Trump in his recent letter to Pakistan reminded about Afghan Conflict’s negative impacts on Pakistan and suggested him to realize his respon- sibility at this stage. And Ambassador John R. Bass also reaf- firmed, “Pakistan has not played a constructive role in Afghan peace as it should have played so far.” But it is the time for Pakistan to realize its responsibilities at this stage by accept- ing the fact that war brings nothing but devastation. Subscription Rates Note: The following rates will apply from January 01, 2017. Fee Categories Afghanistan Times Nation Annual Afg: 5400 at your door step For fast delivery service Six Months Afg: 2700 Afghanistan Times seeks the names, addresses of your International Organization $240 per year organizations and the number of copies you want. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By David A. Andelman 8,827 since the third quarter a year Our 17 years of engagement is often compared to the nine years of full U.S. in- ago and currently stands at 11 per- Donald Trump has no shortage of volvement in the Vietnam War. But the Afghanistan quagmire is worse. cent or 40,000 below its target level. battles to fight, both on the home Part of this may be because the front and around the world. But Afghan troops who Major Taylor perhaps the single most intransi- and his fellow soldiers were sup- gent one is also literally America’s posed to be training are also often longest. In the last several weeks, victims, leading some to turn on the lethal nature of the war in Af- their American allies. Such was the ghanistan — a war that drags on in case with Taylor, who was killed a far-off, ill-understood land — in what was called “an insider at- suddenly became tragically and tack” — the second such an attack vividly alive. In November, the in less than a month. It’s hard to body of Utah mayor and U.S. see how things could get much Army Major Brent Taylor, killed worse as far as American objec- in Afghanistan, was brought home tives are concerned. The Afghan in a moving ceremony that high- government we're backing is hard- lighted the serious challenges Amer- ly up to the task, and neighboring ican forces and interests are fac- Pakistan still seems prepared to ing. Three other soldiers were killed back, at least under the table, the by a Taliban-planted roadside very Taliban that is America’s bomb in late November, the most sworn enemy. Indeed, even the lethal such incident this year in a new, young leader of Pakistan Imre conflict that may never achieve a Khan has pledged only the most satisfactory conclusion. In the last tentative help after meeting with several weeks, the lethal nature of Donald Trump’s personal repre- the war in Afghanistan — a war sentative, Zalmil Khalilzad. That that drags on in a far-off, ill-under- meeting came after a bitter Twitter stood land — suddenly became exchange between Trump and tragically and vividly alive. Thus Khan, with Trump accusing Paki- far three U.S. presidents, six sec- stan of “not doing a damn thing” retaries of defense and five chair- to help the U.S. This was followed men of the Joint Chiefs of Staff by a more conciliatory letter from have presided over a war in which Trump. no one has been able to define vic- Pakistan continues to deny it is tory, let alone remotely succeed in hosting the Taliban leadership with- winning. The Soviets tried the same in its borders, while agreeing to see decades ago, with equally cata- what it might do to arrange peace strophic results. Trump has said talks that could allow the U.S. at he wants to get out of Afghani- least a face-saving retreat. Were we stan, a stance that has received to pull back, however, the danger substantial pushback. He has also is that our enemies may find even signed off on troop increases. So more space to regroup and expand. which stance is correct — and will The Taliban, embittered by two either of them actually end the decades of battling America, could conflict? History may provide underwrite a campaign not unlike some insight. The Soviet war in the one that led Osama bin Laden Afghanistan lasted more than nine to launch his horrific attack on the years (between December 1979 World Trade Center, which in turn U.S. President Donald Trump greets soldiers as he tours Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix, Arizona where he is for a "Make America Great" rally brought the U.S. to Afghanistan. and February 1989). It cost the on Oct. 19, 2018.Nicholas Kamm / AFP - Getty Images Soviets 15,000 dead soldiers and On the other hand, America is more 35,000 wounded. The large num- vigilant today, more attuned to bers of young men coming home my perspective now, the Vietnam day, the government controls bare- high, and rising — 1,692 deaths Afghan government's “Anti-Cor- cotics effort in Afghanistan, yet such activities and has great capac- in body bags also played an im- War never approached Afghani- ly 55 percent of the country, down and 3,430 injuries in the first six ruption Justice Center (ACJC) is the acreage devoted to poppy ities to warn and prevent. portant role in ending communist stan in its complexity and insolu- from 71 percent three years ago months this year among the civil- pursuing a number of low-level, growth in 2017 was more than four The billions we have shoveled rule and the breakup of the Soviet bility. At least in Vietnam, we knew when SIGAR began tracking it. At ian population. These numbers are rather than high-level, corruption times the amount reported by the down that bottomless pit beyond Union. Our 17 years of engage- our enemy. In Afghanistan, we do the same time, more civilians than going in the wrong direction, reach- cases.” United Nations for 2002. the Durand Line could, if redirect- ment, meanwhile, is more often not and probably never will. But ever are being killed by Afghan- ing the highest level since such fig- Afghanistan continues to expand Finally, the Afghan military is hav- ed, develop some powerful tools compared to the nine years of full that’s just one of many problems. led, American sponsored, airstrikes ures were first compiled by Amer- as one of the world’s leading pro- ing little success in staffing. The to protect the West. U.S. involvement in the Vietnam The latest report to Congress from — some 313 in the first nine ican forces in 2009. Moreover, ducers of opium poppies, and the SIGAR report charges that the So, difficult as it may be for me to War. That quagmire did end, the Special Inspector General for months this year, with another 336 corruption is rising, along with the number of acres cultivated are up government has “struggled to main- admit, Trump’s initial instincts though, and American forces final- Afghan Reconstruction [SIGAR] injured, according to the U.S. gov- production of narcotics — both 63 percent in the past two years tain its personnel strength this may be right — maybe it's time to ly went home, more or less defeat- underlines how deep these trou- ernment. The United Nations, heavy, and clearly quite unsuccess- according to SIGAR. From 2002 quarter with [its] strength at the admit defeat and get out before ed, having lost 47,000 dead on the bles reach. First, the Afghan gov- while agreeing on these airstrike ful, targets of American activity in through September 2018, the Unit- lowest level recorded in the third U.S. soldiers start dying in a war battlefield. I was in Indochina as a ernment’s control over the coun- figures, believes the casualty num- Afghanistan. The U.S. Depart- ed States has committed more than quarter of the year since 2012.” that began before many of them young war correspondent. From try is going in sharp reverse. To- bers to be more than five times as ment of Justice reports that the $1.5 million a day to counter-nar- Troop strength plummeted by were born. Americanwomen'sright tochooseis in danger

By Ashley Andreou & between six percent and 22 percent Alexander Urr of women seeking abortions report intimate partner violence and some Ohio's state legislature recently cite it as a reason for terminating passed a bill that criminalised the pregnancies. Study participants de- abortion of a fetus at six weeks, with scribed "not wanting to expose chil- no exception for rape or incest. So, dren to violence and believing that about fuel prices and "green taxes" him their vote. Moreover, he was one young man: "You don't scare tion of the green transition. The how can this be legal given the fact having the baby will tether them to By Rokhaya Diallo transform into a nation-wide pro- running against National Front lead- me with your T-shirt. The best French state indeed has a respon- that the landmark ruling in the court an abusive partner." Understanding test movement attracting hundreds er Marine Le Pen. This also made way of paying for a suit is to work." sibility to take action to combat case of Roe v Wade from 1973, the evolution of abortion regula- For the past three weeks, France of thousands of people in a matter him look like a "progressive sav- In a July 2017 speech Macron said climate change and protect the en- which gave American women the tions and subsequent court challeng- has been experiencing one of the of weeks? It all comes down to iour". A significant portion of the train stations were wonderful plac- vironment. But powerful compa- legal right to an abortion, has not es over the past 45 years is crucial most significant social mobilisa- Macron's apparent failure to con- French electorate was ready to vote es, for there you can cross paths nies that are primarily responsible been overturned? The world ends to realising the enormity of the tions in its recent history, which nect with the people, understand for any moderate candidate who with both "people who succeed" for the pollution, and not regular not with a bang but with a whimper threat of the Supreme Court's new laid bare the country's social ills, their concerns and steer France could stop the far right from tak- (people like him) and "people who citizens, should bear the brunt of - to paraphrase American poet TS composition. Subsequent to the land- anti-elite sentiment, growing ine- Eliot. As the nation's highest court mark Roe decision, conservative away from destructive neoliberal ing power. So, they voted for Ma- are nothing" (presumably ordinary this necessary revolution. The states and even some liberal ones qualities and thirst for social jus- policies. cron, even though many of them French citizens like the rest of us). yellow vest movement is, of shifts right and, arguably, become tice. It all started on November 17 more politicised than ever, legal ac- tried to subvert this right by creat- Misleading the electorate did not support his agenda com- In October of the same year he was course, not perfect. Some protest- ing regulations that restrict abortion when tens of thousands of people 40-year-old Macron was elected pletely or have faith in his ability filmed accusing disgruntled work- ers were responsible for outrageous tivists and concerned citizens should be particularly attentive to what im- clinics (requiring them to be affili- took to the streets across the coun- last year on pledges to change the to respond to their concerns. As a ers of preferring to stir up "chaos" racial and homophobic attacks. ated with a hospital located close try to protest against rising fuel face of French politics, create more result, Macron was elected by a rather than find jobs. "Instead of Some also damaged national mon- pending test cases are likely to reach the United States Supreme Court. by), abortion providers (mandating prices. The protesters, dubbed jobs and improve lives. On the landslide. However, it didn't take kicking up bloody chaos, some of uments and were violent towards that they have to admit privileges "Les gilets jaunes" (the yellow eve of the 2017 presidential elec- long for his supporters to realise them would be better off going to police officers. While we should Given this new judicial landscape, a woman's right to choose and, with at a nearby medical centre), or wom- vests) after the high-visibility jack- tion, French voters were tired of that his "reformist", "new world" see if they can get a job over there," not turn a blind eye to any of this, en (requiring that they notify their ets they adopted as a symbol of career politicians. They wanted a image was nothing more than an he said, alluding to an aluminium we should remember that the yel- that, landmark case Roe v Wade is on many people's minds. However, husbands). In effect, these provisions their complaint, blocked round- different kind of leader, someone illusion. factory in Ussel, a region in which low vests movement is a reflec- serve as roadblocks to providing abouts, burned effigies and clashed who can understand their long- Macron's failure to bring about employers were struggling to hire tion of the ongoing tensions in the reversal of Roe - the bang - may not be the most immediate threat access to abortion care services for with the police. They were angry rooted social and economic con- change should not have surprised new workers. More recently, in France. Almost 11 million people women. In the decades following about the almost 20 percent in- to women's bodily autonomy. Rath- cerns and deliver real, practical anyone. Even though he seemed September this year, Macron told voted for the far right only a year er, the undermining of the existing Roe v Wade many of these new reg- crease in the price of diesel since solutions. For the past four de- "young and new", he was part of an unemployed man he could eas- ago in this country. There are some ulations on women and abortion pro- the start of the year, as well as the regime of abortion access laws by cades, French people have been the establishment. He had served ily find work if only "he crossed extremist elements in the French states - the whimper - is much more viders were challenged in court. planned fuel tax hike President worried about the erosion of so- as the minister of the economy, the street". "Everywhere I go peo- society and they were inevitably Planned Parenthood of Southeast- Emmanuel Macron had recently imminent, harmful, and in need of cial protections in their country. industry and digital affairs from ple say to me that they are looking some among the protesters. action, as in the case of Ohio. The ern Pennsylvania challenged new announced.While Macron said the Since Francois Mitterrand's social- 2014 to 2016 under Francois Hol- for staff," the president said. This But we should not dismiss the en- ability for a woman to have unre- stipulations to Pennsylvania's abor- tax was necessary to "protect the ist government controversially de- lande - he was in charge of imple- lack of empathy coupled with busi- tire movement as "extremist" be- stricted access to safe, legal abor- tion control law in 1988 and 1989. environment" and "combat climate cided to impose austerity policies menting the former president's in- ness-friendly policies helped cause of this. The yellow vests are tion care in the US is integral to the The provisions in question required change", protesters claimed the de- in 1983, successive governments famous Labour Law reform, which shape the French public's percep- the French people who we never right to choose outlined in Roe v women, if married, to notify their cision was yet another sign that have taken slow but consistent caused widespread protests across tion of Macron as an arrogant, priv- see on TV. Their despair can at Wade. "Before Roe, women faced husbands and, if under 18, to obtain the "arrogant" and "privileged" steps to dismantle the French wel- the country. Before that he was a ileged politician who is a friend of times appear offensive because unwanted pregnancies and sought parental consent and wait 24 hours president is out of touch with reg- fare state. All this gradually accen- Rothschild investment banker. the rich and the powerful. The anger is neither polite nor sophis- ways to end them. Women who had before having the procedure done. ular folk struggling to make ends tuated the economic concerns of Once elected, Macron showed his fuel tax that he tried to impose on ticated. It is disorganised, shock- means could sometimes access a le- In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court meet. The intensity of the protests the French middle and working true colours almost immediately. people that are already feeling their ing and comes with emotion, which gal, or at least safe, abortion, but reaffirmed Roe and imposed the new quickly forced the government to classes and led them to be more He decided to amend the wealth economic concerns are being ig- can translate into violence. The poor women - especially poor, "undue burden" standard, which forc- make a U-turn and first suspend and more suspicious of all main- tax - known in France as "ISF" - nored was the straw that broke the point is not to defend any of the young, women of colour - had few es the question of whether a state and later permanently shelve its stream politicians on the right and by narrowing it to a tax on real camel's back. This is why the yel- violence that has tragically oc- options beyond carrying an unwant- abortion regulation imposes a "sub- plans for fuel tax increases. How- the left. They came to believe that estate assets, rather than covering low vest movement is not only curred, but to remember that the ed pregnancy to term or undergoing stantial obstacle in the path of a ever, the protest movement was the political elite protects the in- all worldwide assets over the val- about fuel prices but about social unrest France is currently facing a dangerous procedure," said Dr Abig- woman seeking an abortion before not only about fuel prices. It en- terests of the wealthy and does not ue of 1.3m euros. This led to him justice. There is a profound dis- came in response to other forms ail Cutler, an obstetrician-gynecol- the fetus attains viability." compassed wider anger and frus- care about the wellbeing of ordi- being swiftly labelled the "presi- content among ordinary people in of violence, much more insidious ogist at the Yale School of Medi- One shortcoming of this stan- tration against the political estab- nary citizens. Successfully diag- dent of the rich". France who see themselves as the and harmful: social exclusion and cine, in a conversation with the au- dard is that it typically neglects the lishment in general and President nosing the public's frustration with Macron's disdain for the poor losers in a world dominated by in- injustice. Unemployment, discrim- thors. "Abortion has always, and will collective burden that comes with Macron in particular. As a result, the political class, Macron worked On top of making controversial ternational elites who don't seem ination and poverty are at the root always, be common. The difference the accumulation of regulatory ob- the government's decision to aban- hard to differentiate himself from policy decisions that favoured to care or understand what they of the daily humiliation French is that when abortion is illegal, wom- stacles to access (ie facing a multi- don fuel tax hikes failed to calm the establishment in Paris and act powerful corporations and rich in- are going through. Macron is pur- people feel which has now trans- en die." This is not unchartered ter- plicity of travel-related issues, health tensions. The "yellow vests" want as the representative of a "new dividuals, Macron also repeatedly suing the exact same neoliberal formed into a general desponden- ritory. There is an abundance of data system navigation issues, limited further concessions from the gov- world order" throughout his elec- demonstrated his unfamiliarity agenda his predecessors pursued cy. The French political elites will that attests to what happens to clinic options, financial issues, and ernment. Their demands include a tion campaign. He had the youth, with - and at times disdain for - in the 1980's. And just like the find it hard to pacify this public women's health when access is di- state or clinic restrictions). With this redistribution of wealth as well as the energy, the positive message. ordinary people struggling to sur- policies of his predecessors, his anger unless they commit to intro- minished. For instance, when states new standard of analysis, the court the increase of salaries, pensions, restricted Medicaid coverage of abor- found that the husband consent re- He was the leader of a brand-new vive in the country's increasingly policies are hurting the poorest and ducing radical changes to the way quirement was placing an "undue social security payments and the political party, aligned neither with harsh economic environment. In helping the rich get even richer. The this country is governed. tion services, women faced a 16 minimum wage. Some say they will percent increased risk of severe burden" on a woman's right to an the right nor the left. He appeared 2016 while he was the minister of protests are not rejecting climate The views expressed in this article abortion and, thus, was struck down. not settle for anything less than to be carrying no political baggage. economy, for example, Macron change action are the author's own and do not maternal conditions such as heart attacks, acute renal failure, eclamp- The rest of the provisions being the president's resignation. So Many viewed him as a possible was confronted by angry trade The yellow vest movement should necessarily reflect Al Jazeera's ed- challenged were still upheld because how did day-to-day frustrations savior and did not hesitate to give unionists and was recorded telling not be seen as the public's rejec- itorial stance. (Aljazeera) sia, sepsis, and shock. Further, studies have found that they were able to pass. (Aljazeera) MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES Africa: Migrant deaths will rise as rescue mission ends in Mediterranean Sea

Leading U.N. humanitarian agen- primary concern." Since it began cies warn migrant deaths in the operations in February 2016, the Mediterranean Sea will multiply Aquarius has helped nearly 30,000 with the end of sea and rescue op- refugees and migrants in distress erations by Doctors Without Bor- find a safe haven. U.N. Human ders and its partner SOS Mediter- Rights Spokeswoman, Ravina ranee. The two international char- Shamdasani, tells VOA she is deep- ities were pressured by the Euro- ly concerned by recent develop- pean Union to put their ship, the ments. "The provision of support Aquarius into dry dock and aban- and assistance to migrants must don their life-saving rescue mis- not be criminalized," said Sham- sion. The Aquarius has been dasani. "The decrease of search- docked in Marseille, France, since and-rescue by humanitarian orga- early October after Panama re- nizations and States failure to pro- voked its registration at the behest vide adequate search-and-rescue While fully supporting peace talks danger for Saudi Arabia and the in peace talks taking place in Swe- of the right-wing, anti-immigration capacity is resulting in an increase among the warring parties in Ye- United Arab Emirates. This means den, Lenderking said. He also reit- Italian government. Italy claims of migrants, an increase of vulner- men, the U.S. does not want any that while the U.S. recognizes the erated that the U.S. strongly op- these operations encourage mi- ability of migrants at sea." Sham- Iranian influence to linger on in the Houthi rebels as part of any set- poses discontinuing support to the grants to make the perilous sea dasani says the death rate in the country, a State Department offi- tlement to the war in Yemen, they Saudi-led coalition in Yemen. The journey. It says ending these ac- Central Mediterranean this year is cial said in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. should not remain a close ally of Trump administration is under tivities will save lives, a claim hot- much higher than in previous Timothy Lenderking, Deputy As- Iran and facilitate Iranian influence pressure bu the U.S. senate to stop ly disputed by U.N. officials. UN years. She says States must pro- sistant Secretary for Arabian Gulf next door to U.S. allies. The Unit- supporting the Saudi war effort. refugee agency spokeswoman, tect the lives and safety of migrants Affairs speaking at a security fo- ed States is encouraging the Yeme- Yemen's Houthi rebels and the Sau- Shabia Mantoo, says search-and- and ensure those who are at risk rum said that the Yemen which ni government, backed by the Sau- di led coalition are taking part in rescue capacity needs to be rein- are rescued and offered immediate emerges from the civil war should di-led coalition, and the Iran-aligned U.N. sponsored talks in Sweden forced rather than diminished. "So, assistance. The International Or- not contain any Iranian-backed Houthi movement to fully engage as a confidence-building. we do continue to call strongly for ganization for Migration reports increasing search-and-rescue ca- more than 2,100 people have died pacity in the Central Mediterra- making the dangerous sea crossing nean and for leaving space for from Libya to Europe this year. NGOs (Non-Governmental Orga- This is nearly two-thirds of the Kremlin tells Russian banks to nizations) to contribute in a coor- more than 3,300 deaths recorded dinated manner to these efforts," globally in 2018. prepare for disconnection from said Mantoo. "Saving lives is our (AP) Hajiyev:Azerbaijani president, Armenian acting PM had international payment systems Saudi Arabia hosts This coming January, the U.S. vided credit card processing ser- a support bank for the Russian conversationinSt.Petersburg Congress will resume reviewing vices to dozens of banks on the defense sector and the Russian sanctions bills, and the Russian Russian market. After its license defense industry has been under GCC summit amid Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Acting Prime Minis- Central Bank has begun to prepare was revoked, small players could sanctions since last summer. Ac- ter Nikol Pashinyan had a conversation at the event in St. Petersburg, for tough scenarios, with the pos- not resume work for several weeks, cording to the CAATSA, which Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Azerbaijani Pres- sibility of one of the Russian banks and some were forced to complete- was signed by Donald Trump in Qatar tensions, idential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev said in an interview with Trend to be disconnected from interna- ly withdraw from the credit card August 2017, banks that are in- on Dec. 7. He stressed that at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir tional payment systems. Accord- business. At present, the largest volved in "substantial transac- Putin, President Aliyev took part in the unofficial summit of the CIS ing to the newspaper Vedomosti, partner-banks participating in the tions" with Russian defense enter- Khashoggi crisis heads of state on Dec. 6. “An unofficial summit of the CIS heads of the Central Bank sent letters to the card payment systems are RNKO prises and structures, which are state was held in Moscow in 2017,” he said. “At these summits, the Russian financial institutions rec- Payment Center, Uralsib, Ros- connected with army and intelli- views on the work carried out during the year within the CIS are ex- ommending taking preventive bank, VTB and Promsvyazbank. gence, could be included in the SDN changed; directions for further activity are discussed.” “The St. Peters- measures in case the partner- The latter two are included in the (Specially Designated Nationals burg informal summit was held in a sincere atmosphere,” Hajiyev said. banks, through which they work Countering America’s Adversaries And Blocked Persons List). Rus- “There was a joint dinner for the heads of state. Then, the heads of state with the Visa and MasterCard sys- Through Sanctions Act (CAAT- sian bankers believe that the Cen- watched the 'Nutcracker' ballet at the Mariinsky Theater.” “I would like tems, will be forced to suspend SA) as potential candidates for tral Bank tries to prepare for pos- to stress that while watching the ballet, President Aliyev was sitting to operations. The Central Bank has bank sanctions. Moreover, Proms- sible sanctions that would cause the right of President Putin, which testifies to special respect for the learned from its bitter experience vyazbank, after its nationalization some Russian banks to be discon- Azerbaijani president and his personality,” Hajiyev added. He said with the Master Bank, which pro- in December 2017, was turned into nected from Visa. President Aliyev had conversations and discussions on the issues of mutual interest with all the heads of state participating in the event. “President Aliyev talked with Pashinyan during the event,” he added. “Discussions were held to continue active negotiations on the settle- ment of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and ob- serve the ceasefire. It is necessary to take into account that these two factors are closely related to each other and must remain in the spot- light.” “Recently, the situation on the contact line of Azerbaijani and Armenian troops and along the state border has been relatively quiet, which creates a good background for conducting substantive and inten- sive negotiations to resolve the conflict,” he said. “This should in no way mean freezing the conflict or maintaining an unacceptable status quo,” Hajiyev added. “Azerbaijan’s decisive position is that the status quo, based on occupation, must be changed soon.” Hajiyev said the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries have repeated- ly at the level of heads of state stressed the importance of changing the status quo. “Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within The Gulf Cooperation Council’s Doha has not said what level of the internationally recognized borders must be restored as a result of (GCC) annual summit was set to representation it would send. The negotiations on the conflict settlement,” Hajiyev said. He added that open in Riyadh on Sunday, with emir attended last year’s gathering during the conversation, the exchange of prisoners and hostages be- regional unity imperilled by a bit- in Kuwait, while Saudi Arabia, the tween Armenia and Azerbaijan was also discussed. (Trend) ter row between Qatar and Saudi UAE and Bahrain sent more jun- Arabia, which is mired in a diplo- ior officials. The UAE delegation matic crisis over the murder of jour- to the Riyadh summit will be head- nalist Jamal Khashoggi. The one- ed by Prime Minister and Vice- Uzbekneftegazrefutes day annual gathering of leaders President Sheikh Mohammed bin from the six member states is ex- Rashid al-Maktoum, who is also pected to focus on security issues, ruler of Dubai. The GCC — set rumours of Mingbulak oil including the Yemen war and Iran’s up in 1980 as a bulwark against UNnegotiators sweat over detail and regional activities, and may touch larger neighbours Iran and Iraq — field explosion on oil politics and a protracted groups Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahr- boycott of Qatar by some neigh- ain, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar. Ku- Uzbekistan's oil and gas company Uzbekneftegaz JSC refutes informa- divides at climatesummit in Poland bours. Saudi Arabia, the United wait’s ties with Riyadh have also tion spread by some media about an alleged explosion at the Mingbulak Half-way through talks to breathe the Paris talks has fragmented. US richer nations would deliver on Arab Emirates, Bahrain and non- been strained over control of oil field, Trend reports referring to the company's press service. life into the Paris climate deal ne- President Donald Trump repeat- promises to help finance the cost GCC member Egypt cut diplomat- shared oilfields. The company noted that these messages do not correspond to reality gotiators haggled over how to share ed his call to scrap the Paris cli- of shifting to a lower carbon econ- ic and economic ties with Qatar in WASHINGTON URGES and are false. “Uzbek and Chinese experts are currently conducting the cost of curbing global warming mate pact. By the end of Satur- omy. Environmental campaigners June 2017 over allegations of sup- UNITY geological exploration at the M-15 well at the Mingbulak field as usual,” and struggled to bridge deep polit- day, negotiators aim to have a sim- are concerned the Katowice talks porting terrorism. Bahrain criticis- Following global outrage over the press service noted. In this regard, Uzbekneftegaz asks citizens of ical divides. The two weeks of plified a draft for high-level minis- will lack ambition, after the Unit- es Qatar emir for not attending the Oct. 2 murder of Khashoggi at Uzbekistan to turn to reliable sources of information, and journalists – talks, which began at the start of terial debate starting on Monday. ed States said this year it was with- GCC summit Saudi Arabia’s Istanbul consulate, not to publish unverified data and not to mislead the people. the week, are billed as the most "We still have a lot to do," Michal drawing from the UN process. Qatar, which last week abrupt- Washington has increased pressure The company stressed that they have an open information policy and important UN conference since Kurtyka, the Polish president of Saudi Arabia, the world's big- ly announced it was withdrawing on Riyadh to end the nearly four- are always ready to cooperate with the media. the Paris 2015 agreement on cli- the UN talks, told a news confer- gest oil exporter, in the talks on from the oil exporters’ group year-old Yemen war that has mate change. The challenge is to ence. "It is very technical, very Saturday added a further challenge OPEC, denies the charges and says pushed that country to the brink meet a year-end deadline to agree a complex, very difficult." Delegates by blocking consensus on a major the boycott aims to curtail its sov- of famine and to restore ties with rule book to limit global warming, said a major issue was how to re- scientific report. ereignty. The Saudi king has invit- Qatar for a united Gulf front ArmeniaactingFMurgesOSCEtostop when the unity that underpinned assure developing countries that (CNN) ed Qatar’s emir to the summit, but against Iran. offensivearmssuppliestoAzerbaijan YEREVAN. – The cornerstone of the Karabakh conflict is the issue of life and security of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenia’s acting Ex-NixonWhiteHouselawyer:CongresswillhavetoimpeachTrump Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan said during the OSCE Minis- terial Council in Milan. He recalled that 30 years ago Karabakh man- A former White House lawyer Burnett OutFront." “I think it will influence for deceptive ends," aged to stand up in the face of historical injustice for the sake of self- thinks that the US Congress will resurface in the Congress. I think Khuzami said in his court submis- determination, dignity and freedom. The main reason of the conflict have soon no choice but to start what this totality of today’s fil- sion. Khuzami cited the officially was ignoring the fundamental principles of human rights and the force impeachment proceedings against ings show that the House is going recommended sentence range of 51 used in response to peaceful aspiration. During 30 years, the people of President Donald Trump. John to have little choice, the way this to 63 months for Cohen, who was Nagorno-Karabakh were determined to build their lives with dignity Dean, who served as President is going, other than to start im- a top executive at the Trump Or- and strengthen democratic institutions, as opposed to the cruelty of Richard M. Nixon’s counsel from peachment proceedings.” On Fri- ganization. Donald Trump’s Azerbaijan, violence and aggression, Mnatsakanyan said. According to 1970 to 1973 and received jail time day, New York City’s US Attor- former personal lawyer Michael him, the continuation of the policy of violence, force and the threat of for his role in the Watergate scan- ney Robert Khuzami rejected Co- Cohen has pleaded guilty to sev- the use of force by Azerbaijan delays the settlement of the dispute, dal, made the remarks this week hen’s request for significant lenien- eral counts of felony. Paul causing new suffering to all the peoples of the region. There is no after prosecutors sought “substan- cy based on his cooperation with Manafort was found guilty of eight alternative to a peaceful settlement, and the attempts to succeed by tial” prison term for Michael Co- Special Counsel Robert Mueller's charges. After a year under inves- force are doomed to failure, he added. Mnatsakanyan emphasized that hen, Trump’s former personal law- investigation. “Cohen, an attorney tigation, Cohen pleaded guilty on Armenia’s new authorities are determined in the matter of the peaceful yer and fixer. “I don’t know that and businessman, committed four August 21 to charges of tax and settlement of the conflict under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group. this will forever disappear into distinct federal crimes over a peri- financial fraud. He also pleaded During meeting in Dushanbe, the Prime Minister of Armenia and the some dark hole of unprosecutable od of several years. He was moti- guilty to violating election cam- President of Azerbaijan agreed to establish a direct communication line presidents,” Dean, a CNN contrib- vated to do so by personal greed, paign finance laws by paying an to reduce the number of incidents. (Trend) utor, said Friday on CNN's "Erin and repeatedly used his power and adult film actress. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES 'Korean China should deepen economic economy to ties with BRICS countries amid bottomout global uncertainty: after 2020' NDB vice president

China should deepen its economic ties with BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries and continue to open up its financial market to serve as a cushion against rising global uncer- South Korea is expected to face tainty especially the trade war with a further economic downturn the US, Leslie Maasdorp, vice due to multiple downside risks, president and chief financial offic- er of the New Development Bank such as the global slowdown (NDB), told the Global Times over and a possible hard landing of the weekend. The BRICS coun- the Chinese economy, Hyundai tries have been very focused on Research Institute said, Sun- deepening their collaboration in day. The private think tank said recent years and as each BRICS the Korean economy will bot- nation has unique comparative ad- tom out after 2020. "The Kore- vantages, this cooperation is going an economy has been in the to continue, Leslie said, speaking downward stage in the fourth on the sidelines of the 7th Sanya quarter of 2018," the institute Forum themed "China's reform and said in a report. "We believe opening-up in a changing world" that the economy reached its in Sanya, South China's Hainan peak in May 2017 and has since Province. The NDB is a multilat- been in downturn phase." eral development bank set up by According to the institute's the BRICS group of major emerg- analysis, the economy previ- ing economics in 2014, with a fo- ously hit the bottom in March cus on financing infrastructure de- cados. China is a potential market in such sectors, according to Le- trading partner of India and Bra- Chinese market is open to interna- next decade. Regarding the NDB's 2013 and climbed to the peak in velopment in emerging markets for these goods, and African com- slie. China has been the largest trad- zil. Considering the negative im- tional competition, [the country] future fundraising plans, Leslie said and developing countries. "There panies are already looking much ing partner of South Africa for nine pact resulting from the China-US can have more capital inflows to the multilateral financial institu- May 2017. are a lot of ways in which other more aggressively into China," consecutive years, with the bilat- trade frictions, Leslie also suggest- further stimulate growth in Chi- tion is registering a 10-billion-yuan "We expected the next bot- BRICS countries can collaborate Leslie said. He is also representing eral trade volume reaching $39.17 ed that China open up more of its na," he said, while also taking note ($1.45 billion) Panda bond (issued toming-out point will come in with China. For example, India South Africa as the vice president billion in 2017, up 14.8 percent financial markets, like financial of China's shift to a consumption- in the yuan) program over the next 2019 but now it is more likely excels in high-tech. South Africa of NDB. And the NDB, with its year on year, customs data shows. services, insurance and bond and driven economy, which he said is two years, and will make the first that it will take place after 2020," has a strong commodity-based financing focus on clean energy and China has been the largest trading asset management to boost the supported by the large number of issue under the program in the first it said. The institute cited five economy and a strong agriculture infrastructure, could also play a partner of Russia for eight consec- economy and prepare for the next people in the middle class and quarter of 2019. downside risks for its bleak industry like wines, fruit and avo- role in bringing closer cooperation utive years, and it is also the main stage of qualitative growth. "If the bodes well for its economy in the (AP) economic outlook. Downside risks include global economic slowdown, China's sagging domestic demand, a prolonged slump in domestic construction 'Amazon will go Zimbabweancompanieswant taxsystem industry, contraction in private spending and slowing exports. "It is expected that the global bankrupt': Jeff Bezos toincludeboominginformal economy economy will lose growth mo- mentum in earnest in 2019 as a HARARE – Zimbabwean compa- result of slowing U.S. econom- keeps talking about nies, which include units of South ic growth," it said. "China is African commercial firms, want the another key risky factor as a government to restructure and slowdown in China's domestic Amazon's inevitable death broaden the tax system to include the booming informal economy. demand can cause a China risk The informal economy is exerting for Korea, which relies heavily pressure on formally registered on the neighboring economy." businesses at a time expats are help- It estimates that a 1 percent- ing to prop up the economy. South age point drop in China's GDP African commercial companies in growth will cut Korea's exports Zimbabwe include Standard Bank growth by 1.6 percentage unit Stanbic Bank, Nedbank Zim- points and GDP growth by 0.5 babwe, Pick n Pay and a unit con- percentage points. Asia's trolled by Sanlam’s Emerging Mar- fourth-largest economy grew kets division, among others. This 0.6 percent in the third quarter week President Emerson Mnan- of 2018 from the previous quar- gagwa acknowledged the support ter amid sluggish corporate in- role that diaspora Zimbabweans, vestment and consumer spend- especially those in South Africa, ing. It contracted 0.2 percent in were providing as Zimbabwe bat- the fourth quarter of 2017 but it tles to push its economy back to grew 1.3 percent in the first growth. South Africa is reported quarter of this year but its to have the largest population of expat Zimbabweans. “The coun- growth rate slowed to 0.6 per- cent again in the second quar- Jeff Bezos founded Amazon in drone delivery service. "Compa- try is benefiting from diaspora re- also been exempted from the ment, as it increases the cost of well as corruption”, which are 1994. It has since grown into a tech nies have short lifespans... and mittances. We also are happy that 2?percent intermediated money doing business, rendering local viewed as “having an effect on ter. The institute said that the behemoth — momentarily the Amazon will be disrupted one some of our people in the diaspo- transfer tax. However, according products uncompetitive. There is business activities and tax pay- government and the central most valuable company in the day," he said. Asked whether that ra, like those in South Africa, have to a taxation system survey re- a lack of enforcement on the infor- ments” by formally established bank should carry out econom- world this week — and made him fact worried him, Bezos replied: banded together and raised capi- leased this week by the Zimbabwe mal sector,” Takunda Mugabe, companies. “There is a lack of en- ic policies in a more flexible the richest man in modern history. "I don't worry about it because I tal,” he said. Zimbabwe’s Treasury National Chamber of Commerce chief executive officer of the forcement of tax collection on in- manner. "They need accommo- But the billionaire seems con- know it's inevitable. Companies and the central bank have allowed (ZNCC), about a quarter of large ZNCC, told a meeting of business formal sectors and there are no in- dative monetary policy by con- vinced that Amazon is doomed to come and go, and the companies recipients of remittances and free local commercial companies have leaders attended by President Em- centives granted for full compli- sidering even a rate cut when die. Three times over the past five that are the shiniest and most im- funds to access their proceeds in identified tax rates as a major con- erson Mnangagwa. The survey ance with tax laws.” In order to necessary," it said. years Bezos has talked about the portant of any era — you wait a hard currency, although foreign straint to doing business in Zim- highlights the fact that local com- deal with tax avoidance and eva- "Also, they should pursue firm's inevitable demise. Such chat- few decades and they're gone." currency constraints have occa- babwe. “Most of the interviewees panies are also facing “competi- sion, the Zimbabwean business expansionary fiscal policies ter is strikingly unusual for a CEO Bezos added that he would love sioned limitations in some cases. regarded the current tax system as tion from imports, the informal leaders have recommended that the and frontload 2019 budget in of a major company. Media trained for Amazon's final breath to come Remittances and free funds have punitive given operating environ- economy (which is not taxed) as government restructure. the first half." within an inch of their life and with after he himself dies. demanding investors looking over HORROR: Cirque du Soleil per- their shoulders, senior executives former falls off BMX bike during are normally unflinchingly posi- SF 'Volta' performance tive about their firm's prospects. 2017: BEZOS PONDERS AN India to retain top position in remittances But it seems a fear of failure, and "EXCRUCIATING, PAINFUL talking about that fear of failure, DECLINE" IN A LETTER TO propels Bezos on. Here are some SHAREHOLDERS of the times he has talked about Bezos elaborated on his "Day Amazon's inevitable demise: One" philosophy in a 2017 letter 2013: BEZOS SAYS BIG COM- to shareholders, in which he an- PANIES ONLY LIVE FOR A swered a question he'd got in an India will retain its position as the mittances from USD 62.7 billion "FEW DECADES" all-hands meeting about what world's top recipient of remittances in 2016 to USD 65.3 billion 2017. Bezos spoke to CBS show "60 "Day Two" looks like. "Day Two this year with the Indian commu- In 2017, remittances constituted Minutes" in 2013 to show off is stasis. nity sending a whopping USD 80 2.7 per cent of India's GDP, it said. Amazon's burgeoning automated (AP) billion back home, the World Bank The Bank said remittances to said in a report on Saturday. India South Asia are projected to increase is followed by China (USD 67 bil- by 13.5 per cent to USD 132 bil- lion), Mexico and the Philippines lion in 2018, a stronger pace than (USD 34 billion each) and Egypt the 5.7 per cent growth seen in India keen on (USD 26 billion), according to the 2017. The upsurge is driven by global lender. With this, India has stronger economic conditions in retained its top spot on remittanc- advanced economies, particularly boosting economic es, according to the latest edition the US, and the increase in oil pric- of the World Bank's Migration and es having a positive impact on out- Development Brief. The Bank es- flows from some GCC countries tieswith Syria timates that officially-recorded re- such as the UAE which reported a mittances to developing countries 13 per cent growth in outflows for will increase by 10.8 per cent to the first half of 2018. Bangladesh reach USD 528 billion in 2018. and Pakistan both experienced This new record level follows a strong uptick of 17.9 per cent and robust growth of 7.8 per cent in 6.2 per cent in 2018, respectively, 2017. Global remittances, which the Bank said. For 2019, it is pro- include flows to high-income coun- jected that remittances growth for tries, are projected to grow by 10.3 the region will slow to 4.3 per cent per cent to USD 689 billion, it said. due to a moderation of growth in Over the last three years, India has advanced economies, lower migra- Minister of State in Charge for the ation between the two countries registered a significant flow of re- tion to the GCC. Ministry of Road Transport & in the domains of transport and Highways, Shipping and Chemi- the chemical and fertilizers indus- cal & Fertilizers in Government of try. For his part, Ambassador Ab- India Mansukh Mandaviya af- bas expressed Syria’s willingness firmed his country’s standing by to cooperate with the friendly coun- Trump’seconomyteeteringontradetensions,volatilemarkets Syria in its war against terrorism. tries in the stage of reconstruction, Meeting Syrian Ambassador shedding light on the solid historic Rising trade tensions with China, a fading economic outlook and ques- the case for a December interest ket performance as the preferred omy is trending downward. Grant to India Dr. Ryiad Abbas, Man- relations binding the two friendly tions about rising interest rates are posing new challenges to President rate hike by the Federal Reserve, economic report card for his ad- Thornton chief economist Diane daviya hailed the victories achieved peoples of Syria and India. Trump as he prepares for his reelection campaign.Sputtering negotia- sending Wall Street reeling. The ministration. While the president Swonk is forecasting that a reces- by Syria over terrorism thanks to The Ambassador hailed India’s tions between Washington and Beijing over tariffs and other trade bar- Dow Jones Industrial Average lost frequently touted the Dow as it sion will start in the first half of the sacrifices of the Syrian Arab stances towards Syria during the riers rattled financial markets this past week, frightening traders who 558 points by the end of trading soared through 2017, he has been 2020, six months earlier than she Army and the steadfastness of the crisis, affirming that the bilateral were already bracing for a possible recession in 2019. Even though the Friday, a 2.2 percent drop, while mum about the protracted bleed- had initially predicted. If she’s Syrian people and leadership, relations between the two states world's two economic superpowers have agreed to work out a deal by the S&P 500 and Nasdaq compos- off in U.S stocks. And despite con- right, Trump will face the herculean SANA reported. are witnessing a notable and posi- the end of February, the ongoing feud is now accompanied by broader ite fell 2.3 percent and 3 percent, sistently low unemployment, cur- task of securing reelection while He expressed desire to visit tive development in many of the concerns about the long-term strength of the U.S. economy. Friday’s respectively. The contrast poses rently at a 49-year low of 3.7 per- the economy is contracting. “Elec- Syria in order to further develop political, economic and cultural respectable employment report from the Labor Department showed severe messaging problems for cent, economists say they see tion years don’t stop recessions the bilateral relations and cooper- domains. encouraging signs of wage growth from November, but it also bolstered Trump, who’s touted stock mar- growing signs that the Trump econ- from occurring.” MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Mexican volunteer crowned Miss World

Spanish prosecutors are gearing up case they would not drop it, which being a resident between 2011 and ferred her official residency to more than six months a year in to file a court complaint against means they will file a complaint in 2014, according to prosecutors. Spain in 2015. Until then, it was Spain – a prerequisite to be an of- singer Shakira for allegedly evad- court in the coming days for al- The case only covers the period in the Bahamas. But a spokesman ficial tax-paying resident in the ing €14.5 million ($16.5 million) leged tax fraud, reported Yahoo! from 2012 to 2014, however, as for prosecutors in Barcelona said country. With her mix of Latin and in taxes, which the superstar’s de- A spokesman for Spain’s pros- the timeframe to prosecute alleged in February that this didn’t “match Arabic rhythms and rock influenc- fence lawyers deny, a report said ecution office would only say that tax offences in 2011 has expired. reality” with her children and part- es, Shakira is one of the biggest Friday. The El Pais daily said pros- “no action has been taken” yet. In a relationship since 2011 ner in Barcelona. Shakira’s repre- stars from Latin America, scoring A Mexican model and volunteer was crowned Miss World at a glitzy ecutors had notified the award- The matter “is being examined,” with FC Barcelona centre-back sentatives insist that until 2014, major global hits with songs such event on the tropical Chinese island of Hainan on Saturday. Miss winning Colombian singer’s law- he added. Shakira is suspected of Gerard Pique, with whom she has she earned most of her money in as Can’t Remember to Forget You Mexico Vanessa Ponce de Leon, 26, has a degree in international busi- yers that after investigating the not paying taxes in Spain despite two sons, the 41-year-old trans- international tours and didn’t live and Whenever, Wherever. ness, volunteers for “Migrantes en el Camino” and is on the board of directors of a rehab centre for girls, according to the Miss World website. She was crowned as the 68th Miss World by last year’s winner, Manushi Chhillar of India, in the coastal city of Sanya. The Akshay Sunil Grover says Salman Khan asked him colourful ceremony included US group Sister Sledge performing their 1979 disco anthem “We Are Family.” Kumar: Mahira Khan bags fourth spot in Sexiest Asian Woman list Great to to collaborate with Kapil Sharma again First runner up was Thailand’s Nicolene Pichapa Limsnukan, a Actor-comic Sunil Grover says 20-year-old studying business ad- have my films Salman Khan approached him to ministration. Miss Uganda Quiin be a part of his former collabora- Abenakyo were also among the fi- being loved by tor Kapil Sharma’s comeback nal five. It is the eighth time the show but he declined due to sched- Miss World final has been held in Chinese uling issues. There have been ru- Sanya, which first hosted the pag- mours that Salman, who has pro- eant in 2003. At the finals three audience duced Kapil’s new comedy TV gig, years ago controversy erupted as has been trying to mediate a patch- officials in Hong Kong stopped up between the ex co-stars. The Miss Canada, Anastasia Lin, from 41-year-old actor, who is part of boarding a plane bound for Sanya, Salman’s Bharat, confirms the su- telling her she would not receive a perstar brought it up in a discus- visa. The 25-year old actress sion. “Salman sir is producing that claimed the decision was due to show. My own dates would have her stance on China’s human rights clashed (with Kapil’s show) as I record, including its persecution of am doing a film with Salman sir. Falun Gong, a Chinese spiritual This show that I am doing for Star group of which she is a practitio- Plus fitted in the window that I ner. had. “But he (Salman) did speak to me briefly about it (bringing two of us together). We had a very ca- sual chat about it but nothing Rocking lime green much,” Sunil told PTI. When asked Khuranas with frequent collabo- Sunil and him last year. The come- them for believing in us and giving if he is ready to work with Kapil rators Ali Asgar and Upasana dy chat show revolves around Su- us the platform to make people again, he says, “Time will tell, God Singh, who have also been part of nil, who plays the role of a man, laugh. The only intention is to bring like a style queen, will tell. Right now I am concen- hit shows like The Kapil Sharma who has four sisters-in-law and a smile on people’s faces. “This for- trating on my show and hope I am Show and Comedy Nights with brother-in-law, played by Apar- mat of celebrities walking in and able to bring a smile on everyone’s Kapil. Ali and Upasana discontin- shakti Khurana. “Certain TV chan- doing fun interview remains the this wedding season Bollywood star Akshay Kumar faces.” Sunil is back with his own ued working with Kapil post the nels believe there should be a com- same but how we function within A pop stunner, this colour will make you a head- has had a great year. Not just in comedy show called Kanpur Wale infamous mid-air fight between edy show and we are thankful to that frame is a journey,” he says. turner at functions. Here’s how to ace it. India, the actor has tasted success in China as well where his film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha released on June 8. His other film, Pad Man, After Five years 'Kai Po Che' team which released in India on Febru- ary 9, is also making its way to Chinese theatres on December 14. reun ites to create m agic o n screen again ! And that’s not all. His latest Ronnie Screwvala, Abhishek the screens today. release, sci-fi film, 2.0, where he Kapoor and Sushant Singh Rajput Kedarnath is a tragic love story plays the antagonist to Rajini- mark their second association with that plays out amidst the 2013 kanth’s character, is set to treat 'Kedarnath' after delivering the deluge in the pilgrimage center of Chinese audiences next May. It has 2013's hit 'Kai Po Che'. Uttarakhand. The glimpse of the received a thunderous response in The film that marked the debut of trailer gives goosebumps to the India. “It feels great to have my TV actor Sushant Singh Rajput viewers with the mesmerizing films being loved by the Chinese had received immense love and scenery, eye-catchy locations, and audience. They have been rather appreciation from all quarters. Five outstanding visuals which show- appreciative of the Indian films of years later, the actor-director-pro- case the youthful and the eternal Sara Ali Khan stars in Kedarnath alongside Sushant late, and that’s a fantastic oppor- ducer trio has come together again love story which is pure, innocent tunity to further the scope for In- to create the same magic again along and set against the backdrop of Singh Rajput.(Yogen Shah) dian cinema,” he shares. “Films like with the most awaited debutante Uttarakhand floods. Indian weddings are a colourful want the outfit to steal the focus Toilet... are about social and pub- Sara Ali Khan. Produced by Ronnie Screwv- lic awareness. As there is similari- affair, fashion included. But even from you. Designer Nachiket While the Abhishek Kapoor direc- ala's RSVP and Abhishek Kapoor's in that sea of people wearing Barve says, “The colour is ideal ty between the two countries, such torial 'Kai Po Che' carved a place Guy In the Sky Pictures, Kedar- movies are getting accepted in Chi- pinks, reds, yellows, and greens, for day rather than evening, and for itself in the hearts of the audi- nath is directed by Abhishek how many are brave enough to suits lighter skin tones better. na. That is one of the biggest fac- ence, there has been immense ex- Kapoor and has released success- tors working for Indian films,” pick lime green? Very few, right? Those with dusky skin should co- citement to witness the upcoming fully. Perhaps because questions like lour block lime green with bright trade analyst Atul Mohan says. collaboration of the trio that hit (Santa banta) (Santa banta) ‘Will it make me look darker?’, pink accents or wear ivory cream/ ‘How should I accessorise it?’, or gold with one part of the outfit in ‘Will makeup make it OTT?’ in- lime green.” The fabric must be stantly come to mind, thereby, high quality, or it can look tacky. Kajol stumps Ajay to win the Rapid Fire round compelling us to resort to the usu- “Also, underplay the shimmer on al, tried-and-tested colour palettes. it. In jewellery, emeralds could set Koffee with Karan is back for its they spent not talking to each oth- look by Kajol! Kajol on the other Well, here’s proof from Bolly- it off well,” he adds. Makeup wise 6th season and the best answer of er and how the whole thing should hand when asked, who is the most wood of how gorgeous lime green It’s important to keep the face the season will win an Audi have been avoided. The Rapid Fire beautiful actress in Bollywood and can look. But we agree that it’s a natural; just lightly highlight your Power couple Ajay Devgan and round saw fireworks from both without a second thought, she said tricky shade, so we get you some features. “A healthy sheen on your Kajol were Karan's guests for the Ajay and Kajol! Ajay saying that that all of them are the same. It help from experts. face will make you look stunning. 6th episode of Koffee with Karan. the biggest lie said by everyone in depends on who has the best doc- Wear it right Also, pastel pinks or nudes com- Formal introductions aside, Karan the industry is that they love their tor. India's longest running week- Stick to the natural lime green plement lime green outfits well,” and Kajol pondered about the time wives which was met with a stern ly episodic English show. than a neon-y shade unless you says makeup expert Vidya Tikari. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10, 2018 AFGHANISTANTIMES KyleEdmund, SimonaHalep andNaomi Osakato headlineATP/ WTASydney International

Britain's Kyle Edmund, world No 1 Simona Halep and US Open champion Naomi Osaka will head- line a strong field at the ATP/WTA Sydney International in January. Edmund is the top seed for the January 6-12 event which is used as a warm-up for the Australian Open the following week. The world No 14 will line-up along- side reigning champion Daniil Medvedev as well as the likes of Gilles Simon, Alex de Minaur, Lu- cas Pouille and Jo-Wilfried Tson- ga. Last year's runner-up and home favourite De Minaur says he is relishing returning to his home tournament, 12 months after con- testing his maiden ATP Tour final. "I am really looking forward to playing again in front of my home crowd," De Minaur said. "Last year Atlanta United won the Major the scoring in the 39th minute with Mexico. "If I had to choose a way challenge from Larrys Mabiala in the lead as a sliding Michael Blanco's cross to Jeremy Ebobisse. was a fantastic week and the sup- League Soccer title in its second his 35th goal of the 2018 cam- to leave somewhere, this is the best the penalty area but play was Parkhurst sent the ball toward the Ebobisse's close-range header was port I received was amazing and season of existence, defeating the paign. way," a beaming Martino said. waved on and VAR backed up the penalty area and Martinez beat pushed away by Guzan to keep it helped carry me through to the fi- Portland Timbers 2-0 in the MLS Argentine defender Franco Esco- "We won it, it feels good," added call. Atlanta's Miguel Almiron had Liam Ridgewell at the top of the 1-0 at the interval. nal. Hopefully I will receive simi- Cup final on Saturday. Atlanta's bar doubled the score in the 54th Martino, who endured bitter Copa a clear chance in the 29th minute box then rounded Attinella to slot The Timbers pushed forward ear- lar encouragement in January. I MLS Most Valuable Player Josef minute as Atlanta made coach Ger- America disappointments with from a cross from Greg Garza but the ball into an empty net. ly in the second half, but found look forward to seeing everyone Martinez led the way in front of a ardo "Tata" Martino's last match Argentina in 2015 and 16. Portland goalkeeper Jeff Attinella Four minutes later Atlanta keeper themselves 2-0 down after 54 min- out at Olympic Park." league-record crowd of 73,019 at at the helm a victory before he de- Atlanta pressed from the beginning. dived right to swat the shot away. Brad Guzan denied Portland's first utes. (Sky Sport) Mercedes Benz Stadium, opening parts to take over as coach of Martinez was sent tumbling by a Ten minutes later Atlanta seized real chance, set up by Sebastian (Sky Sport) Australia slip to 104-4 chasing Louis Oosthuizen opens three Adelaide record 323 to beat shot lead at India in first Test South African Lomachenko Open Oosthuizen aiming for beatsJose maiden title at event Pedrazatounify on home soil lightweight belts

Louis Oosthuizen opened a three- shot lead heading into the final round of the South African Open as the home favourite moved clos- er to ending his near three-year ti- tle drought. The 2010 Open cham- Vasyl Lomachenko added the face Anthony Crolla, who received the next year a fight with Mikey pion has not won since his suc- WBO lightweight world title to his confirmation from the WBA that Garcia," he said. Garcia is the un- cess at the ISPS Handa Perth In- WBA belt with a unanimous 12- he is next in line to fight the win- beaten World Boxing Council 135- ternational in February 2016 but Ravichandran Ashwin and Mo- ma as replays showed the bowler target had India not suffered a late round decision over Jose Pedraza ner of Saturday's fight. The Man- pound champion. Pedraza, mak- he mixed six birdies with two bo- hammed Shami claimed two wick- had overstepped - but Finch was batting collapse in their second in- on Saturday. Ukraine's Lomachen- cunian defeated Daud Yordan on ing his first defence of the WBO geys at Randpark Golf Club to ets apiece as India severely dented left to regret opting against the re- nings, the tourists tumbling from ko, a three-weight world champi- points in a WBA final eliminator title he won with a unanimous de- card a four-under 67 and move to Australia's pursuit of an Adelaide- view when he was given caught 282-5 to 307 all out, including los- on who had never before unified in November to become mandato- cision over Ray Beltran on August 14 under par. Oosthuizen's near- record 323 to win the first Test. behind by Ashwin with technolo- ing their last four wickets for just two titles in the same class, ry challenger for Lomachenko. 25, was the first fighter to go the est challengers are England's Matt Spinner Ashwin (2-44) accounted gy suggesting the ball had not four runs, as Nathan Lyon claimed knocked down Pedraza twice in an "Everything is good -- I'm distance against Lomachenko since Wallace, countryman Charl for Aaron Finch (11) and Usman grazed his glove. Australia's hopes 6-122. Cheteshwar Pujara (71) and explosive 11th round. Two judges healthy 100 per cent," Lomachen- Suriya Tatakhun in a featherweight Schwartzel and Zambia's Madal- Khawaja (8) on day four, while now rest largely with Shaun Ajinkya Rahane (70) took their saw it 117-109 for Lomachenko ko declared after wrapping up the world title bout in 2014. itso Muthiya, with South African seamer Shami (2-15) removed deb- Marsh (31no) as they look to com- fourth-wicket stand to 87 - during while a third made it 119-107 for victory to improve to 12-1 with Lomachenko had stopped duo Ernie Els and Branden Grace utant Marcus Harris (26) and Pe- plete the highest Test run chase at which time Rahane successfully the 30-year-old, who was fighting nine wins inside the distance. "I eight fighters inside the distance part of an eight-man group three ter Handscomb (14) as Australia Adelaide Oval, which is currently overturned a bat-pad decision off for the first time since having am happy," he said. "I [moved] a since then. "He did a very good shots further back. Louis Oosthui- closed on 104-4, still 219 runs shy the 315 the Baggy Greens struck Lyon on 18 - before Pujara clipped shoulder surgery in the wake of little closer to my dream, to my job," Lomachenko said of Pedra- zen says he was pleased with his of their target. Finch's use of DRS to beat England in 1902. Tim Lyon to Finch at short leg to fall his 10th-round technical knockout goal." That's to unify all of the za's staying power. "I respect Pe- performance in windy conditions saved him on nought after he had Paine's team would have been 29 runs short of a second century of Jorge Linares on May 12. It major lightweight belts. "Two more draza, the Pedraza team -- very as he earned a three-shot lead go- been pinned lbw by Ishant Shar- hunting an even more formidable of the match. means Lomachenko is now set to belts, and maybe we can make in good job." (Sky Sport) ing into the South African Open final round. Oosthuizen is the high- est-ranked player in the field and he began his third round, delayed by 20 minutes due to the threat of Swimmer and Scholar Ellen Keane boosted storms, with a birdie before fur- ther gains either side of a bogey at the fifth. The South African had opened a one-shot lead over Muth- byArsenal and Skywork experience iya after the sixth but three birdies in four holes from the 12th saw Ellen Keane spends most of her to voice their ideas. It was also in- the 36-year-old earn a four-shot life flying up and down a swim- teresting to see how press releases advantage at one stage. Oosthui- ming pool. To develop her life and and interviews are put on the Sky zen did drop his second shot of career skills as part of her Sky server, edited and published on the the day at the 17th but a battling Sports Scholarship, the 23-year- digital platforms. One of the most par at the last ensured he holds a old from Dublin visited Sky in exciting experiences during my good buffer going into Sunday's London and got stuck in. Planning, week at Sky was a presenter train- final round. Wallace, who has won reporting, interviewing footballers ing workshop in the studios with three titles this year, made a strong at Arsenal, producing shows and director Sam Foskett and present- move up the leaderboard with three managing in the studios. It was an er and mentor James Gemmell. birdies over his front nine before amazing four days with Sky Sports After a tour of the studio and the coming back home with three fur- News working in all the different gallery, we got our hair and make- ther gains, including a closing gain, Altior survived a heavy downpour at the open ditch early on, Altior's teams and I got a feel of many jobs up done and got ready for present- and three bogeys. Schwartzel, the and a determined Un De Sceaux to fencing was at its slickest, although I could enjoy when my swimming ing! I did it with fellow Scholars overnight leader, struggled to rep- extended his winning streak to 15 Un De Sceaux made him pull out career finishes! I started with the Emily Appleton and Francesca licate the form which saw him fire in the Betfair Tingle Creek Chase all the stops. Turning in it seemed planning team, learning about how Summers where we read news off a blemish-free eight-under 63 on at Sandown. Nicky Henderson's a matter of 'how far' for Altior as they prepare for the next day's the autocue and interviewing a Friday as the 2011 Masters cham- star was unproven on such testing he loomed alongside the diminu- sports news and gathering data sportsperson who James pretend- pion mixed two bogeys with just ground and faced arguably his tive Un De Sceaux, but Willie such as location, time and contact ed to be! I went first and really one gain. Muthiya, leading by two toughest test to date up against Un Mullins' multiple Grade One win- information. I also suggested ques- enjoyed being in front of the cam- shots at the par-three fifth, was De Sceaux, Sceau Royal and Saint ner did not go down without a tions for a reporter going out for era. I also tried controlling the au- penalised for a double-hit when Calvados. As expected Saint Cal- fight. When Altior got in slightly an interview. The planning team tocue which was very difficult. I playing a fairway wood from the vados and Un De Sceuax made sure tight to the last it gave Ruby Walsh have three main meetings during also learnt how the camera worked. fringe and forced to settle for a there was no hanging about - but chance to steal a length, but as he the morning where all the teams I found the workshop really double bogey - one of two over his Nico de Boinville was intent to not has done in the past, the 8-13 catch up on what's going on and beneficial, as I have always been opening 10 holes - but three con- let them get too far ahead. With favourite powered up the hill to work out who's responsible for interested in presenting. secutive birdies on the back nine the exception of jumping too big win going away. gathering what and for everyone (BBC Sport) saw him finish well. MONDAY . DECEMBER 10. 2018-Qaws 19, 1397 H.S Vol:XI Issue No:130 Price: Afs.20

Corruption WORLD WAR 3 fears Women’s reservation in China should deepen “We are at a Shakira Atlanta United major cause as US plane flies over Parliament, state economic ties with point of accused beat Portland Ukraine in show of legislatures need of the BRICS countries amid inter-generational of poverty, support against hour, says NCP chief global uncertainty: of tax Timbers 2-0 to insecurity: Russia Sharad Pawar NDB vice president transition” fraud in win MLS Cup Ghani Page 3 Page 5 Page 4 Page 9 Page 6 Spain Page 10 Page 11

AT News Report KABUL: At least 11 Taliban in- surgents have been killed and 14 others wounded in a clash with the Afghan security forces in northern Faryab province, Interi- or Ministry said Sunday. Accord- ing to ministry’s statement, the 11 AT News Report on Saturday has found some slight to 54 percent in 2016. In terms armed Taliban including a local progress since in Afghanistan’s progress made over the past 12 commander were killed and 14 KABUL: Corruption remains cen- general situation since 2016, with months, respondents in the North- others along with a local command- tral to many of Afghanistan’s chal- limited room for optimism. In the east and Central Highlands, where er wounded in a clash occurred in lenges, says Integrity Watch Af- 2018 biennial survey, 61 percent the government has stronger rep- Daulat Abad district of the prov- ghanistan’s national corruption of respondents stated they were resentation and greater influence ince. No casualty sustained to the survey 2018, asking the govern- either ‘very satisfied’ or ‘some- — as well as the Southern region Afghan security forces, and civil- ment to focus on long term anti- what satisfied’ with the situation which, in contrast is traditionally ians during fighting. graft efforts. The survey released in their home provinces, compared a Taliban stronghold—are... P2

AT News Report

KABUL: The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) have killed at least 33 militants and wounded 19 other during intensive military crack- down within past days across the Pakistan will collapse like the erst- country, security official said Sun- while Soviet Union if it does not day. They also detained 18 rebels quit a “losing arms race”, and, must and handed them over judicial or- also seriously consider casting gans for further investigations. aside its dependence on the armed The Ministry of Defense in a forces, especially the army, to be statement said that ANDSF in regarded as a great nation, said a collaborations with Afghan Air former envoy. Interacting with Force (AAF) conducted raids in students and academia at the Flor- Herat, Ghazni, Nangarhar, ida State University (FSU) recent- Kapisa, Logar, Paktia, Farah, Sa- ly, Pakistan’s former Ambassador mangan, Kunduz, Zabul and Hel- to the United States, Hussain mand provinces, in which scores Haqqani, said Pakistan lacks great- of militants killed and wounded. ness because most of its political In these operations, 14... problems are resolved with the P2 help of military force. ... P2