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number of Afghan Senators said joining of Gulbuddin Hekmatyar in peace pro- ties are not really a national party. A AT News Report cess is a good step, but he should “If a leader of a party is Pash- apologize from the nation for kill- toon, all members of the party are ing of innocent people. Senators KABUL: Hezb-e-Islami Afghani- Pashtoons, similar if leader is Tajik, emphasized that the Hezb-e Isla- Karzai said that the two coun- stan (HIA) leader Gulbuddin Hek- Hazara or Uzbek the members are mi party must make its programs tries should choose any possible matyar on Sunday said that he and from that ethnicity.” He insisted and plans clear that Afghan peo- ways to strengthen friendly rela- his party were ready to honestly that two or three powerful parties ple can be aware of its role in solv- tionships. “The only and basic cooperate with the government for were needed to be comprised of ing the challenges. condition to reach this goal is a real ensuring security in the country. the entire Afghan nation. Hekmat- Senator Zulmay Zabuli said, battle against terrorism,” Karzai Delivering speech among thou- yar also pledged for strict defense “We welcome Mr. Hekmatyar, but said. Pakistan’s parliamentary del- sands of supporters in eastern women’s rights at the light of Is- the position of the Hezb- Islami is egation headed by the country’s Nangarhar province, Hekmatyar lam. Hezb-e-Islami Afghanistan not clear so far. The party should Nation al Assembly Speaker, Sar- said: “We become ready for coop- Leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar aplogize from Afghans and speci- dar Ayaz Sadiq arrived Saturday eration with the government to publicly appeared and delivered fy its programs.” in Kabul to meet Afghan officials. reinforce security.” “I accept this speeches for the first time on Sat- Senator Anarguli Hunaryar Sadiq offered a letter from Pa- government as a fact and never urday in Laghman eastern prov- said, “We welcome joining of Hek- kistan’s Prime Minister Nawaz want anyone’s share,” he added. ince after 20 years. Hekmatyar was matyar in peace process and it is a Sahrif to former president Karzai, Establishing of a coalition govern- nodded around one year ago to join good step. Other opposition in which Sharif has expressed con- ment is not our demand as well as peace process and started negotia- groups should accept the Afghan dolence and sympathy over the not our precondition, he added. tion with the government of Af- peace process the same as this terrorist attack against the Shaheen Pointing to the Taliban, he said you ghanistan. Afghan government wel- party.” 209th military corps Sharif in the are the reason of coming of US comed the preparedness of Hek- Afghan Senators stressed the letter has invited Karzai to visit forces and their presence in Af- matyar for peace parleys After- International Community should Pakistan. Karzai welcomed the ghanistan. Hinting toward rifts in long term negotiation both side’s have honest cooperation in peace delegation and promised to visit National Unity Government, Hek- delegation including HPC agreed talks that the government can give Pakistan for the improvement of matyar said “as a brother I call on over establishing a draft. The draft a positive result. the two countries’ relationships. the NUG leaders to put an end to has been handed over to President Senator Sheer Muhammad He also thanked Pakistan na- internal tension.” He said that if Ashraf Ghani and HIA party and Akhund Zada said, “If the United tion for hosting Afghan refugees NUG leaders can’t work together, signed. Nations honestly wants to provide during the years of jihad. one of them should leave and let HIA had set different condi- peace in Afghanistan, it should fa- Pakistani parliamentary dele- the other one continue working. tion including removal of the Par- cilitate peace talks with other op- AT News Report insecurity in Afghanistan affects istan situation,” Karzai told a high- gation also emphasized on further “If there are two operators in any ty members name from UN black position groups.” the situation in Pakistan. level delegation from the National friendly and brotherly relation- system, the system would face lists, freed of HIA members from Chairman of the Upper House KABUL: Former President, Ha- “And if the situation in Paki- Assembly of Pakistan who met the ships between Kabul and Islama- conflict and failure,” he noted. prisons and transferring of Afghan of Parliament, Fazlul Hadi Mus- mid Karzai on Sunday said that stan is insecure, it affects Afghan- ex-president in Kabul. bad. Hekmatyar criticized increasing of refugees from Pakistan. limyar also considered the joining parties in Afghanistan and termed Afghan government, HPC and of Hezb-e Islami party an effec- it a negative factor behind division HIA also have been reached to tive step for the stability of the of Afghan nation. He said that most agreement over several issues in- country. “The Senate House wel- of the ministries formation in the cluding accept of constitution dur- comes Hekmatyar and hopes oth- government and most of the par- ing recent long term negotiation. er opposition groups lay down their weapons and follow their political wills through peace.” Senators noted that simul- tanously with peace talks, serious securiy measures should also be taken for the possible terrorist at- tacks and use any options for their U.S Marines have returned to the part of Resolute Support’s train, as many as 5,000 additional U.S. elimination. (ATN) volatile southern province of Hel- advise and assist mission. The de- troops to Afghanistan. According mand, two years after the NATO ployment came one day after the to reports last week, the Pentagon combat mission ended in the coun- Taliban announced the launch of is considering options that include try. The Marines were the first its spring offensive. In a statement, between 3,000 and 5,000 conven- Two civilians number of families of vic U.S Forces to be sent to Afghani- the group warned it would increase tional military personnel to advise stan after the September 11, 2001 its campaign of bombings, ambush Afghan military and police units, killed in tims of the civil war, be attack on the United States. For attacks, complex attacks and IED plus an unspecified number of ad- Atween Mujahideen groups years they were engaged in often operations. The Marines arrival ditional special forces units to Taliban attack in Kabul, accused post-Taliban heavy fighting in the volatile prov- also comes just days after reports tackle counter-terror operations governments of not bringing war ince, however the new deployment emerged that the Trump adminis- against al-Qaeda and Daesh. criminals to justice and of ignoring of about 300 Marines will form tration is evaluating plans to send (ToloNews) Hezb-e-Islami Afghanistan (HIA) leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar on Baghlan- law suits. These families said jus- tice should not be undermined in mazar highway the event of armed groups joining the peace process. Lawyers mean- t least two civilians were while said government should bring killed in a Taliban attack on war criminals to justice. Athe Baghlan-Mazar high- More than two decades have way while they were on their way passed since the civil war, but rem- to a wedding in Mazar-e-Sharif, nants of the war can still be seen in officials confirmed on Sunday. Kabul city. Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, In addition, five other civilians head of Hizb-e-Islami, was a key The High Council of Jihadi and One of the council member, be failed in the shadow of the war.” and changing of the country to the tional Parties, Sebqatullah Mujada- including children were wounded. figure in the civil war, and accord- The incident took place in National Parties (Shora-ye A’ali Karim Khalili called Taliban’s ef- The former Jihadi leaders say second Syria and proxy war battle di said, “Afghanistan is facing se- ing to Kabul residents he commit- Ahzab Jihadi wa melli) has warned forts for returning the Islamic they are ready to defend the coun- grounds.” The ex-Jihadi leaders rious dangers and the powerful Chashma-e-Shir area of northern ted countless war crimes. Because Baghlan after the Taliban targeted that the National Unity Govern- Emirate in Afghanistan ineffective. try alongside the Afghan security say the world Powers are busy countries are seeking to destroy the of these war crimes during the civ- ment (NUG) fails in fight against “Taliban should not think that the forces, but are concerning over with their greatest games to make country.” High Council of Jihadi a civilian vehicle which was on its il war, a number of Kabul residents way to Mazar, officials at the terrorism and the continuation of armed Taliban group cannot form changing of the country to the sec- Afghanistan faces huge crisis, but and National Parties (Shora-ye are unhappy about Hekmatyar’s conflicts in Afghanistan will an Islamic Emirate in Afghanistan ond Syria. Khalili further added, the government and political lead- A’ali Ahzab Jihadi wa melli) is a Baghlan hospital told TOLOnews. return. “We do not know what kind “All the victims are from one change the country into the 2nd through peace and the current gov- “We seriously concern over the ers should prevent them. Chairman pro President Ashraf Ghani Ah- of country Afghanistan is? Any- Syria and proxy battle fields. ernment has been failed and will continuation of war in Afghanistan of High Council of Jihadi and Na- madzai political council. (ATN) family. Two men were killed and one can do anything they want. five others, which are women and These days will also pass,” said children, were injured,” according Abdulwahid, a Kabul resident. to the official. “He (Hekmatyar) wants to show Early Saturday, the Taliban himself as a good man and wants launched attacks along the to make himself a politician. He Afghan, Pakistani MPs discuss anti-terror efforts Baghlan-Kunduz highway, which wants to clear his background by was closed to traffic for hours. what he says and does these days,” ESHAWAR : Pakistan has Ayaz Sadiq, heading a parliamen- ceived the team. The 15-member Sadiq told his Afghan counter- mitment towards Afghan peace and A security source said on Sun- said Halim, a student. Nazir Ah- renewed its commitment to tary delegation, arrived in Kabul delegation includes parliamentari- part that the visit of the high-level stability and urged the need of con- day that the Taliban once again mad, another resident of Kabul city peace and stability in Af- on Saturday on a two-day official ans from various political parties. delegation was unprecedented and structive engagement between the closed the highway, and that in- P is now a pharmacist. He lost one ghanistan, seeking for constructive visit. Ibrahimi and Muslimyar stressed indicated the utmost importance two countries for the elimination surgents stopped trucks and took of his legs during the civil war - engagement with the neighbour on Wolesi Jirga Speaker Abdul the need for continuity of parlia- Pakistan attached to its relations of common threat of terrorism”, a number of drivers with them. when only six years old. the issue of eradicating terrorism. Rauf Ibrahimi and Senate Chair- mentary exchanges for improved with Afghanistan. the Foreign Office spokesman (ToloNews) (ToloNews) National Assembly Speaker man Fazal Hadi Muslimyar re- bilateral relations. “He reiterated Pakistan’s com- said. (Pajhwok) MONDAY . MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Afghanistan: Growing Challenges

Political fractures continue to weaken the Afghan National Unity Government as the Taliban insurgency expands and an Islamic State affiliate strengthens its foothold. In this excerpt from the Watch List 2017 – First Update early-warning report for European policy makers,Crisis Group urges the European Union and its member states to continue to provide technical support to the negotiating process and take measures to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.

Rising insurgency and a fraught plementation of reforms necessary nical and financial support to an political transition are exacerbat- to mitigate the effects of corrup- Afghan-led peace and reconcilia- ing an already pervasive sense of tion, nepotism and factionalism in tion process in its upcoming 2017- insecurity about Afghanistan’s fu- the Afghan National Army (ANA) 2020 EU Strategy for Afghanistan. ture. Since the 2014 international and particularly the Afghan Na- A second precondition for suc- military drawdown, the resurgent tional Police (ANP). Such weak- cessful negotiations is for the U.S., Taliban has fast expanded its pres- nesses and overall government still the most powerful and influ- ence countrywide. The Islamic dysfunction played a major part ential foreign actor in Afghanistan, State-Khorasan (IS-K), an affiliate in the 2016 Taliban advances in to settle on a comprehensive po- of the Islamic State in Iraq and Kunduz city in the north, the siege litical strategy. While the Trump Syria (ISIS), also has a foothold, of Lashkargah and Tirin Kot cities administration’s Afghan policy re- albeit limited and mainly in some in the south, and, in March 2017, mains a work in progress, there are eastern districts. Two-and-a-half the Taliban capture of Helmand’s clear indications it will maintain its years after it was created to pre- Sangin district. presence in Afghanistan and likely vent the bitterly contested 2014 Regional Neighbours enhance its military support. But presidential election from plung- Amid ambiguity about the it still must address the question ing the country into turmoil, the Western will to remain engaged, of the optimal format and compo- National Unity Government Afghanistan’s neighbours are more sition of the talks. The Quadrilat- (NUG) is beset with internal dis- aggressively promoting what they eral Consultation Group compris- agreements and dysfunction that perceive to be their own national ing Afghanistan, China, Pakistan undermine the capacity of the Af- security interests. This most no- and the U.S. has been dormant ghan National Defence and Securi- tably is the case of Pakistan, whose since the May 2016 U.S. drone ty Forces (ANDSF) to counter the relations with Afghanistan contin- attack that killed Taliban leader insurgency. The government’s abil- ue to be strained. Islamabad re- Mullah Mansoor. Russia’s efforts ity to confront significant gover- mains unwilling to facilitate talks to bring together Pakistan, China, nance, economic and humanitarian between the Taliban and Kabul, Iran, India, and most recently Af- challenges also is weak. Civilian and and continues supporting its Af- ghanistan, are more promising in- military casualties as well as the ghan proxies, allowing them to re- sofar as they include all regional numbers of conflict-displaced and cruit, fundraise, as well as plan and stakeholders. But Washington de- those in need of urgent humanitar- conduct operations from safe ha- clined Moscow’s invitation to par- ian assistance continue to grow. vens inside Pakistan. Pakistan in ticipate in the process, concerned Rising Insurgency turn accuses Kabul of at best turn- that Russia’s outreach to the Tali- After the transition to Afghan ing a blind eye, if not actively sup- ban, including some military sup- security forces in 2014, the thinly porting, Pakistani tribal militants port, could endanger U.S. stabili- stretched ANDSF has been battling conducting cross-border attacks sation efforts and endanger the a growing insurgency on several from Afghan territory. lives of U.S. forces in Afghanistan. fronts. According to the U.S. Spe- No internationally-led nego- Given the U.S.’s key role, its ab- cial Inspector General for Afghan- tiations will work unless there is a sence clearly would be to the det- IS fighters arrested by Afghan security personal stand outside the Afghan police headquarters in Jalalabad, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, May 9, 2016. istan Reconstruction (SIGAR) consensus among Afghans, both riment of the process. The EU only 57.2 per cent of 375 districts those backing and opposing the should continue providing techni- So-called Islamic State has whom belong to the Orokzai tribe What is the estimated number strength from several thousand to were under government control or government, to pursue a negotiat- cal support to a negotiating pro- wreaked havoc in eastern Afghan- in Pakistan. A number of Central of IS-K members? now under 1,000 fighters, and influence by 1 February 2017, an ed peace rather than continued con- cess that has broad Afghan sup- istan since 2015, mostly through Asian militants in Afghanistan, According to the U.S.-led Res- their territorial control from more almost 15 per cent decline since flict. port, which the Moscow-led pro- its loose affiliates — attacking who previously were associated olute Mission in Afghanistan, than 10 districts to fewer than five. end-2015. According to the Spe- Deteriorating bilateral rela- cess currently lacks even with one government installations and vil- with al-Qaida and Taliban, joined there were about 3,000 IS-K mem- Pentagon officials said Friday cial Inspector General, 6,785 Af- tions have had other consequenc- of the principal stakeholders, the lages, killing and abducting hun- the IS cause. Some Afghan mili- bers in Afghanistan last year. The they suspected the Islamic State ghan forces were killed and anoth- es. In 2016, Islamabad forcibly re- Taliban. A third essential element dreds of people, and keeping tants also have joined IS-K ranks number, however, has been re- leader in Afghanistan, Abdul Ha- er 11,777 wounded from January patriated more than 550,000 Af- is for Pakistan to become con- schools shuttered and replacing for financial gains. duced to a few hundred fighters seeb, was killed in a three-hour fire- to November 2016, significant loss- ghans (including 380,000 registered vinced that its interests would be them with IS religious seminaries. Where is IS-K based and what this year. fight in the Mohmand Valley, in es at a time when security forces refugees) as relations with Kabul better served by a political settle- It also claimed responsibility for territory has it captured in Afghan- "In 2016, we believed that the Achin district of eastern Nan- are struggling with personnel re- deteriorated because of heightened ment in Afghanistan than by con- several deadly attacks in the coun- istan? year began with about 3,000 or so garhar province. tention. The UN Mission in Af- Taliban attacks in Afghanistan and tinued Taliban insurgency. This try’s capital, Kabul. Based in southern parts of ISIS-K members in about 12 dis- Officials said another 35 IS ghanistan (UNAMA) also report- cross-border attacks by Afghani- will require international efforts Here is a rundown in a ques- eastern Nangarhar province, IS-K tricts in southern Nangarhar," U.S. fighters also had been killed. ed a 3 per cent increase in civilian stan-based Pakistani tribal mili- both to pressure Pakistan to shift tion-and-answer format about how has taken root in mountainous ar- Navy Capt. Bill Salvin, spokes- Haseeb is not the only IS com- casualties (3,498 killed 7,920 tants. In February 2017, after a course and to facilitate construc- IS operates in Afghanistan: eas of Afghanistan and Pakistan. person for Resolute Support in mander to have been killed in U.S.- wounded) in 2016 over the previ- major terror attack on a Sufi shrine tive dialogue between Islamabad When did IS emerge in Afghan- Last year it had a presence in at Kabul told VOA last month. "Right Afghan security operations in the ous year. The number of high pro- in southern Pakistan which was and Kabul. The U.S. role will be istan? Branching out from Iraq and least 12 Nangarhar districts. The now, we believe there are about 600 region. Several top IS-K command- file attacks in Kabul also was higher claimed by a Pakistani Taliban fac- central, including by conditioning Syria – and fueled by a growing group also expanded to neighbor- ISIS-K members in two or three ers recently have been killed in during the first three months of tion reportedly based in eastern continued military support to Is- militancy in Central Asia – IS ing Kunar province, but has had districts in southern Nangarhar." counterterrorism airstrikes, includ- 2017 as compared to equivalent Afghanistan, Pakistan closed its lamabad on Pakistan working with launched its operations in the Af- fewer activities there. How are U.S.-Afghan forces ing its leader Saeed Khan, who was periods in previous years. On 21 two main border crossings with Kabul to bring the insurgents to ghanistan-Pakistan region two Is IS-K expanding to other fighting IS-K? killed in a U.S. drone strike in July April, Taliban gunmen and suicide Afghanistan – Torkham and Cha- the negotiating table and rethink- years ago, naming it IS’s Khorasan parts of Afghanistan? American and Afghan forces 2016. But despite the battlefield bombers attacked an Afghan army man – for over a month. It also ing its support to the Taliban’s province (IS-K) to cover Afghani- IS-K has been attempting to conduct counterterrorism opera- losses, IS-K has "shown an ability base in the northern Balkh prov- conducted mortar and other mili- Quetta Shura and the Haqqani stan, Pakistan, and “other nearby expand to other parts of the coun- tions together. U.S. forces pursue to conduct attacks in Kabul and ince, killing over 100 military and tary strikes on the bordering prov- Network, now fully integrated into lands.” The name refers to a cen- try. Central Asian fighters who a two-way approach to combat- elsewhere in the country," Gener- other personnel and injuring scores inces of Kunar and Nangarhar. the insurgency’s command struc- turies-old description of Afghani- have pledged allegiance to IS have ing IS-K. al John Nicholson, the U.S. mili- more. The army chief and defence Though it has since reopened the ture. While the U.S. is best placed stan and surrounding areas of Cen- a presence in southern Zabul prov- "The first is the unilateral U.S. tary commander in Afghanistan, minister both resigned the follow- crossings, Pakistan has begun to to pressure Pakistan to reverse its tral Asia and Persia. ince. The group also claims to have counterterrorism mission called recently told the Senate Armed ing day. Two attacks in March tar- fence the border, a move certain to support for Afghan proxies, the IS-K’s founder, Hafiz Saeed a presence in northern Jouzjan and Operation Freedom, and that is Services Committee. geted police stations and a mili- aggravate tensions insofar as Kab- EU and member states should use Khan, a former Pakistani Taliban Faryab provinces, where some where we will conduct the opera- U.S. and Afghan forces say tary hospital, killing 73 and ul does not recognise the Durand trade and diplomatic ties with Pa- commander, appeared in a video militants who were previously as- tions against terrorist groups like they are determined to defeat the wounding over 240 people. Line as the international boundary. kistan and financial assistance to in January 2015, along with 10 sociated with the Taliban said they ISIS-K on our own," Salvin said. extremist group in the country this Preventing the loss of more There are further complicating Afghanistan as leverage to per- militant commanders — each rep- have have joined IS-K. The son of "The other way that we are attack- year. territory to insurgents, particular- regional factors. Closer ties be- suade them to peacefully resolve resenting a sub-region within the a fabled slain Uzbek militant com- ing ISIS-K is in partnered opera- "Our goal in 2017 is to defeat ly during the anticipated spring tween Kabul and New Delhi, their differences. The Humanitari- Afghan-Pak region — pledging al- mander, Tahir Yuldash — co- tions with the Afghan special forc- ISIS-K in Afghanistan," Salvin offensive, is an urgent priority, which has offered a $1 billion aid an Situation Afghanistan suffers legiance to IS. founder and former leader of the es." said. The U.S. Air Force this notably in order to limit the scope package and MI-25 combat heli- from one of the most protracted Who are IS-K Members? Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan Is IS-K losing in Afghanistan? month dropped "the mother of all of ungoverned spaces that could copters to Afghanistan, are viewed humanitarian crises in the world. According to U.S. and Afghan (IMU) — reportedly has been lur- U.S.-led NATO officials and bombs" on IS-K’s stronghold in be exploited by regional extrem- as provocative by Islamabad. Iran In 2016, which witnessed some of officials, most IS-K fighters are ing Uzbek men in northern prov- members of the Afghan government Nangarhar’s Achin district, killing ists and transnational terror long has been suspected of pro- the worst fighting since the U.S.- former members of the Pakistani inces to join the group, according say their security operations in at least 95 IS fighters, mostly for- groups. With 8,400 troops already viding military hardware to some led intervention in October 2001, Taliban group (TTP), many of to Afghan officials. recent months have reduced IS-K’s eign fighters. (VOANEWS) based in Afghanistan, the U.S. mil- Taliban factions, a stance motivat- 646,698 persons were internally itary leadership has requested a ed partly by animosity toward the displaced due to conflict, com- few thousand additional troops, a U.S. and more recently by the de- pared to 70,000 in 2010; this add- step that – if approved – would sire to counter IS-K. Russia also ed to the roughly one million con- boost ANDSF morale and poten- recently has upped its involve- flict-displaced in previous years. tially could help blunt the insur- ment, reaching out to the Taliban 2016 also saw one million Afghan US army: 4,000 troops to Europe, gents’ offensive. But countering the and, according to senior U.S mili- refugees and migrants forced to growing insurgency also will de- tary officials providing them with return home from Pakistan and pend on continued robust interna- some military support, and pro- Iran. The EU’s plan to deport back tional financial and technical sup- posing to lead a new negotiation home some 80,000 Afghans whose 1,700 to Afghanistan this year port, including honouring commit- process which could further com- request for asylum was rejected ments made at NATO’s July 2016 plicate Afghanistan’s security dy- will further strain Afghanistan’s On Thursday, the largest branch Warsaw summit to advise, assist namics. Peace Negotiations No in- capacity. More broadly, both of the U.S. armed forces announced and train Afghan forces and pro- ternationally-led negotiations will Kabul and the humanitarian com- that an estimated 4,000 soldiers vide them with annual funding of work unless there is a consensus munity, including UN agencies, from the 2nd Armored Brigade up to $4.5 billion until 2020. among Afghans, both those back- estimate that 9.3 million people, Combat Team, 1st Infantry Divi- Tackling the security situation ing and opposing the government, or almost one-third of Afghani- sion, stationed at Fort Riley, Kan- also will require addressing wid- to pursue a negotiated peace rath- stan’s population, will be in need sas, will be sent to Europe begin- ening internal disagreements and er than continued conflict. Exter- of humanitarian assistance this ning this fall in support of Opera- political partisanship that perme- nal actors can lend a hand, through year. As security continues to de- tion Atlantic Resolve. ate all levels of the security appa- facilitation and other support, but teriorate and both Pakistan and The offensive refers to ongo- ratus and have undermined the impetus has to come from Iran force more refugees and mi- ing operations aimed at reassuring ANDSF command and control within. In this context, the Euro- grants to return, the humanitarian NATO allies concerned about Rus- structures. Intra-governmental di- pean Union (EU) and its member crisis likely will worsen. sia’s intentions in Eastern Europe. visions likewise have impeded im- states should continue their tech- (CRISISGROUP) In a statement, Col. David Gardner, commander of 2nd Ar- mored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, noted, “The Dagger Brigade is looking forward to deploying back to Europe. The brigade has served most of its 100- year history in support of our European allies and will arrive af- ter a year of training ready to do so again.” Moreover, the Army an- nounced Thursday that 1,500 sol- diers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, sta- tioned at Fort Bragg, North Caro- lina, will deploy to Afghanistan this summer in support of Operation Resolute Support mission.” soldiers are ready to serve our na- tional security. The Islamic State Freedom’s Sentinel, the name for The Army also revealed that tion’s call.” (ISIS/ISIL) has also established a The Ministry of energy and water of Afghanistan (MEW)is supposed to the U.S. mission in the war-rav- another 200 soldiers from the 3rd The U.S. Army announced the branch in the country, but the Tal- aged country. Infantry Division Headquarters, upcoming deployments to Afghan- iban and al-Qaeda remain a bigger award the contract,Rehabilitation/Ahangaran Village River Bank “Since spearheading allied as- stationed at Fort Stewart, Geor- istan on the same day that Bill threat, noted the FDD expert. Protection Works in Firozkoh Center of Ghor province, under the saults in Sicily and Anzio in 1943, gia, will be sent to the war zone in Roggio, an expert at the Founda- An estimated 300 U.S. Ma- the Devil Brigade has accom- Afghanistan this summer in sup- tion for Defense of Democracies rines were recently deployed to the contract No, MEW/PCU/IRDP/HR02/HRT/NCBwith Khudai Noor plished its missions through disci- port of Freedom’s Sentinel. (FDD) and editor of the Long War Taliban stronghold in the southern Barek Const.Co,Kartee 3, Kabul Afghanistan, license ID, D-24473in the plined initiative,” said Col. Toby “The Marne Division is trained Journal, told American lawmakers Afghanistan province located along amount of 19,234,784 AFN(Nineteen million two hundred thirty Magsig, commander of 1st Brigade and ready to deploy in support of that America is “losing in Afghan- the Pakistan border, Helmand, one Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Di- this important mission,” said Maj. istan.” He added that despite the of the deadliest regions of the on- four hundred and seven hundred eighty four Afghanis).Bidders vision, in a statement. “The same Gen. James Rainey, commander of more than 16-year-old U.S. mili- going war for coalition forces. who appeal reconsideration or have any objection, they can submit endures today. The ‘Devils in Bag- 3rd Infantry Division, in a state- tary effort against al-Qaeda and its Prior to the recent Marine de- gy Pants’ are well-trained, well- ment. “The number one priority Taliban ally, the two terrorist ployment, there were an estimat- their application within oneweek totheMinistry of Energy and Water equipped, and ready to assist our at the 3rd Infantry Division is groups are growing stronger and ed 8,300 U.S. forces serving in from the date of announcement. Afghan partners as part of the readiness, and I am confident our remain a threat to America’s na- Afghanistan. (BREITBART) MONDAY . MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

EMERGENCY CALLS Police 100 - 119 Officials from the Asian Develop- ment Bank (ADB) on Saturday Hospitals said they would provide at least $300 million USD for Afghani- FMIC Hospital stan’s infrastructure projects. Behind Kabul Medical According to the ADB offi- cials, reconstruction of parts of University: Afghanistan’s highways and estab- 0202500200-+93793275595 lishing a Solar Park in eastern Nan- garhar province are some of the projects the bank would invest in Rabia-i-Balkhi Hospital this year. Pule Bagh-e- Umomi “Solar power generation facil- ity that will be between 20 and 30 070263672 megawatts that will actually gen- erate power and then a transmis- Khairkhana Hospital sion line project all from our $300 million dollars,” Thomas Panella, 0799-321007 ADB country director in Afghani- 2401352 stan said. Meanwhile, the deputy min- ister of energy and water affairs, Indira Gandhi Children Amanullah Ghalib, said power shortages would decrease in the Hospital, Wazir Akbar eastern zone after the implemen- tation of the Solar Park project in Khan, Kabul 2301372 Nangarhar. Ghalib added that the solar Ibn-e- Seena power project would cost $50 mil- lion USD. Pul-e-Artan, Kabul “The Solar Park project in Nangarhar will produce at least 2100359 100 megawatts of electricity. The With this death, this is the third converted to Islam. Asian Development Bank also will Keralite who left the state last year The four were part of a 21- Wazir Akbar Khan help us in technical assessments and reached Afghanistan to be strong group from Kerala who Hospital of the project,” he said. killed. A third youth from Kerala reached Afghanistan. The Asian Development Bank who ran away to join the Daesh With this death, this is the 2301741, 2301743 said at the Brussels Summit it terror group in Afghanistan has third Keralite who left the state would grant $878 million USD in been killed there, police said on Sat- last year and reached Afghanistan aid to Afghanistan which will be urday. According to information to be killed. Ali Abad invested in different projects in the received in Kasargode, Yahya alias Early this month, Muhammed, Shahrara, Kabul country up to 2020. (ToloNews) Bastian, who was in his late 20s, said to be in his 20s, was reported is reported to have been killed in to have been killed along with 36 2100439 Afghanistan, said the Kerala Po- Daesh militants who were killed lice's intelligence wing. after the US struck the terror A top intelligence official told group's position in eastern Afghan- Malalai Maternity IANS that this information was istan with a massive GBU-43 Hospital received on the mobile of a relative bomb, also known as the "mother of another person who was part of all bombs". In February this 2201377/ 2301743 of a group now in Afghanistan. year, information reached the rela- "We have got this information tives of 26-year-old Hafeesudin Banks from a person residing here and the that he had been killed in a drone death pertains to a man who hails attack. Kerala Chief Minister Pi- from Palakkad district. Other de- narayi Vijayan last year had in- Da Afghanistan Bank tails are not known," said the offi- formed the state assembly that 21 2100302, 2100303 cial. Yahiya alias Bastian along with people, including children, were his wife, his brother and his wife, missing - 17 persons from Kasar- Bakhtar Bank who have all been reported miss- gode district and four from ing, hail from Palakkad and had Palakkad. (KHALEEJTIMES) 0776777000 Azizi Bank 2 ALP police 0799 700900 killed, 9 Pashtany Bank wounded in 2102908, 2103868 Kapisa airstrike Air Services

MAHMOOD RAQI ): Two Af- lating Human Rights and abusing Safi Airways ghan Local Police (ALP) person- & harassing women should be can- nel have been killed and nine oth- celed.” 020 22 22 222 ers wounded during an airstrike in The Interior Ministry (MoI); central Kapisa province, an offi- however, said efforts underway for Ariana cial said on Sunday. the betterment of women’s situa- Qais Qaderi, the governor tion in the Afghan police. 020-2100270 spokesman, told Pajhwok Afghan The Deputy Minister of Ad- News the predawn incident took ministration at MoI, Akraamuddin Kam Air place in the Ahmadzai area of Bawar said: “Women hold special 0799974422 Tagab district. Two ALP police- place in the Ministry of Interior men were killed and nine others and all of them have the respect wounded. and absolute harmony of working Hotels Afghan special forces conduct- there.” AIHRC further stressed on Safi Landmark ed the airstrike targeting militant the capacity building and increase hideouts, but a nearby ALP check- of policewomen in the country. post was mistakenly pounded. He Samar added: “We hope the 020-2203131 said the injured were evacuated to Interior Ministry work further on hospital. Khalilullah, an inhabitant strengthening the capacity of SERENA of the locality, said militants women, apart from their own ca- KUNDUZ CITY : Provincial coun- pressed concern over the road’s opened fire and later security forces Afghanistan Independent Human olition of impunity culture against pacity building programs.” It 0799654000 cil members and residents of north- condition and said Public Works carried out the bombardment in the Rights Commission (AIHRC) has those who are harassing women. comes as there are about 3,000 officials should be taken to task area. The ALP personnel suffered Sima Samar, the head of policewomen in the Afghan police ern Kunduz province say heavy New Rumi Restaurant expressed concern about the ha- transport vehicles have damaged for neglecting the road. casualties in the raid, he added. rassment of women in Afghan po- AIHRC said: “The culture of im- army across the country. at parts the road to Sher Khan dry Some residents of Kunduz also (Pajhwok) lice. The commission has urged ab- punity against those who are vio- (ATN) 0776351347 port, creating great inconvenience accused the Public Works Depart- ment of negligence in protection for commuters. Internet Services Provincial council member of the road. Yusuf Ayubi told Pajhwok Afghan Haji Mnasoor, a resident of UA Telecom Children continue to fill warring parties’ranks News overweight trucks had Kunduz city, and a driver, said, 0796701701 / 0796702702 caused damage to the 60-kilome- “Sher Khan Bandar-Kunduz road KABUL : The recruitment of chil- would often come to their semi- fighter for a gun. “Give me a gun, I studies. He said teachers of the ter road at several parts while the has damaged at many parts but the dren in Afghanistan’s ongoing con- nary and they would address stu- want to fight,” he told the rebel seminary in Akora Khattak area Public Works Department re- Public Works Department is pay- Exchange Rate flict has declined, but not ended as dents and provoke them against the fighter. would insist on jihad in Afghani- mained unconcerned. ing no attention.” He said there young boys are still sent to the government and foreign forces. The now 17-year-old said the stan the entire day. “The teachers The public representative said was no truck scale installed to pre- Purchase: battlefield. The recruitment of chil- He said hundreds of children Taliban then gave him a gun and a would daily tell us that jihad is poor quality material had been used vent overloading and further wors- ening of the road’s condition. How- dren in forces is another form of studied at the seminary in Deh Yak cell phone which played Taliban’s mandatory in Afghanistan because in the road’s construction and the One US$ = human trafficking which destroys and the Taliban had urged all to songs. the Americans were there and be- road would extinct soon if the Pub- ever, Eng. Burhanuddin Shinwari, their future. join the fight against the govern- “Someone told my family that cause the Afghan government was lic Works Department did not pay Kunduz public works director, 66.75Afs Children are trained in terror- ment. Abdul Haq has joined the Taliban. infide.” attention. said the road was constructed 15 One Pound Sterling= years ago and they had planned to ist activities at religious schools “The seminary was run in the My elder brother came to the sem- He claimed pupils at the Rabbani Rabbani, another pro- 80.87Afs inside and outside of Afghanistan village mosque. The speeches of inary and saw the gun with me. Haqqani seminary were given mil- vincial council member, also ex- repair it. (Pajhwok) and then sent to the battlefield. the Taliban deeply impacted me The Taliban told me that now itary training and were prepared One Euro = Seminaries which are not reg- and I started thinking to pick up a when I had picked up the gun, no as suicide bombers. “We were 70.05Afs istered with the government are gun, ride a bike and engage securi- one should stop me. That’s why I shown videos in which Americans 1000 Pak Rs = often involved in imparting anti- ty forces face to face, but my par- sent my brother home and I did rape Afghan women and behead government training to pupils. ents did not allow me to go with not go with him.” innocent people. It would provoke 611Afs Pajhwok Afghan News talked the Taliban.” He fought alongside the Tali- us to carry out a suicide attack right Sale: to a boy, Abdul Haq, who the Tal- Abdul Haq recalled the semi- ban for two years in Ghazni be- now.” Haq also made his mind to One US$ = iban had prepared for carrying out nary students influenced by the fore going to Pakistan with the help become a suicide bomber. “One a suicide attack, but he quit. emotional speeches would kiss of his comrades. He was admitted day, I was called to a dark room 68.30 Afs Haq, a resident of southern guns with the Taliban to pay re- to a seminary in Panjpir, a town in where some men were sitting. They One Pound Sterling= Ghazni province, said: “We were spect. “It felt too good to be in Swabi district of Pakistan’s Khy- told if I want to go to the Heaven, 81.67Afs living in Deh Yak district. I was their (Taliban) service.” ber Pakhtunkhwa province. if I want my family, relatives and One Euro= attending a madrasa there. I dis- Haq spent one year in the He spent five months in the friends to be proud of me, then go liked school since childhood.” seminary in Deh Yak district and seminary before being shifted and carry out a suicide attack.” 72.50 Afs He said Taliban militants finally decided to ask a Taliban Darul Uloom Haqqani for further (Pajhwok) 1000 Pak Rs= 631 MONDAY . MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES India gives scholarship worth Rs 35 crore to children of freedom fighters in Bangladesh The civilian-military rift deepens dress each other through tweets," in Pakistan following a tweet from Khan said, in an apparent refer- This year, scholarships have been awarded to 600 an army official who "rejected" an ence to the ISPR tweet.In his undergraduate students. Of them, 48 were from inquiry into leaked information. tweet, the army spokesperson re- Many are urging the PM to sack ferred to the "Dawn Leaks," which Chittagong, reportedly. the official over the "Dawn Leaks" had put the government and the affair. "Notification on Dawn Leak military on a collision course in is incomplete and not in line with October last year. In a report pub- recommendations by the Inquiry lished by "Dawn" newspaper on Board. Notification is rejected," October 7 last year, Pakistani jour- Major General Asif Ghafoor, the nalist Cyril Almeida wrote about spokesman for the Pakistani army, an increasing tension between the tweeted Saturday. Notification on civilian and military leadership re- Dawn Leak is incomplete and not garding how the country deals in line with recommendations by with Islamist terrorists. the Inquiry Board. Notification is "In a blunt, orchestrated and rejected. When Ghafoor was writ- unprecedented warning, the civil- ing this tweet, he probably had no ian government has informed the idea it would anger so many peo- military leadership of a growing ple in Pakistan. The military offi- international isolation of Pakistan cial's tweet, particularly the "No- and sought consensus on several tification is rejected" part, is large- key actions by the state," Almeida ly viewed in the South Asian coun- wrote, citing different sources. try as condescending and a chal- "The message: military-led in- lenge to Prime Minister Nawaz telligence agencies are not to inter- The children of freedom fighters ity and happiness," Shringla told Sharif's authority. fere if law enforcement acts against in Bangladesh were given scholar- the freedom fighters gathered at Some social media users "reject- militant groups that are banned or ships by India at a program joint- the scholarship award ceremony ed" Ghafoor's tweet: Most ana- until now considered off-limits for ly organized by Indian High Com- in Chittagong.Indian Deputy High lysts agree that the powerful Pa- civilian action," the journalist add- mission and Bangladesh Mukti- Commissioner to Bangladesh Som- kistani military calls the shots in ed. The international community, jodha Academy on Saturday. The nath Halder thanked everybody for the Islamic country, and the elect- particularly the United States, has program was inaugurated by Indi- attending the programme which ed civilian government has almost repeatedly accused the Pakistani an High Commissioner to Bang- ended with a cultural performance. no say in key policy areas, but army of backing Islamic militants ladesh Harsh Vardhan Shringla. Dr. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra never before has the military's In- in Afghanistan and India-adminis- Sri Lanka prepares to hold UN Mahfujur Rahman, the chairman Modi during Sheikh Hasina's visit ter-Services Public Relations tered Kashmir. Sharif's govern- of Freedom Fighter Research Cen- to India announced that another (ISPR) department so openly and ment, however, denied the con- ter, also spoke on the occasion. 10,000 students will receive schol- publicly defied the elected pre- tents of the report. While the ci- Vesak Celebrations for first time While handing over the stipends arships under the new Muktijodha mier's authority. Political observ- vilian authorities said no such con- to the children of the freedom fight- scholarship scheme. All freedom ers say the civilian-military rift in versation ever took place, some Sri Lanka is preparing to celebrate ers at the theatre institute in the fighters are now eligible for five Pakistan is now reaching breaking observers claimed the government the United Nations Day of Vesak city, Shringla said, "The two pre- years multiple entry Indian visa point. And this time around, the itself "leaked" the content to the for the first time in the country miers of India and Bangladesh, and 100 of them will be provided civilian government, which gener- newspaper. "… the published sto- next month and expects a huge in- Narendra Modi and Sheikh Hasi- free medical treatment in Indian ally avoids confronting the mili- ry was clearly in violation of uni- ternational participation in the na have maintained the relation- hospitals every year. tary, had to respond to Ghafoor's versally acknowledged principles ship, the foundation of which was The High Commissioner said event. A Progress Review Meet- tweet. "Whatever I say will be in of reporting on national security ing was held under the patronage laid by Bangbandhu Sheikh under the new scheme, students at accordance with the law. issues and has risked the vital state Mujibur Rahman and Indira Gan- higher secondary level will get an of President Maithripala Sirisena I believe that tweets, sent out by interests through inclusion of in- to evaluate the arrangements being dhi." India initiated the Muktijodha onetime grant of taka 20,000 (Rs whichever institution, are a dead- accurate and misleading contents Scholarship Scheme in 2006 for 15,3700) and those at Under grad- ly poison for Pakistan's democra- which had no relevance to actual made to celebrate the United Na- descendants of the 1971 Freedom uate level will get taka 50,000 (Rs cy, our system and justice," Inte- discussion and facts," the govern- tions Day of Vesak in Sri Lanka in Fighters. Up to now, more than 38,430). rior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali ment said in a statement on Octo- 2017, at the Presidential Secretar- 10,000 scholarships worth Taka Students are selected on the Khan told a press conference in ber 10. It also ordered an inquiry iat, yesterday (28). Minister of 150 million have been disbursed. basis of merit from every district Karachi hours after Ghafoor's into "Dawn Leaks." Buddha Sasana and Wijeyadasa This year, scholarships have been for the scheme. tweet. "Institutions should not ad- (DW) Rajapaksa said 85 countries have awarded to 600 undergraduate stu- Shringla also said that the ini- been invited to participate in the dents. Of them, 48 were from Chit- tiatives announced by Modi reflect International Wesak Day Festival tagong, reportedly. "our continued solidarity with the and of those, 72 countries have "You have fought shoulder to valiant Muktijodhas". Minister for Swiss climber Ueli Steck falls to death, confirmed their participation. In- shoulder with Indian troops in Housing and Public Works dian Prime Minister Narendra 1971 and continue to be our eter- Mosharraf Hossain was also Modi will inaugurate the opening nal friends. May Almighty bless present at the ceremony. ceremony as the chief Guest on you all with good health, prosper- (Indiatoday) preparing for Mount Everest ascent 12th May in Colombo. The clos- in Everest’s deadliest avalanche world’s tenth highest mountain, ing ceremony of the commemora- triggered by Nepal earthquake and several other 8,000 metre tive function will be held under the “His body has been retrieved and peaks, Steck had won several patronage of President of Nepal Nirmala Sitharaman is being brought to Kathmandu,” awards for his mountaineering Bidya Devi Bandari at the Maha Sherpa said. feats. Along with two other Euro- Maluwa opposite the Kandy Sri rejects DMK’s Hindi Kamal Prasad Parajuli, an of- pean climbers, Steck was involved Dalada Maligawa on 14th May. ficial with Nepal’s Department of in a brawl with sherpa guides over The Maha Sangha including the Tourism, confirmed Steck died fixing ropes in 2013. The alterca- Most Ven. Kotugoda Dhamma- imposition charge while climbing Nuptse and that he tion, which forced the climbers off wasa Mahanayake Thera, Speak- had planned to attempt an Everest the mountain, drew international er Karu Jayasuriya, Ministers Commerce minister Nirmala Sitharaman says centre is not ascent. Swiss climber Ueli Steck headlines. Last year, Steck and a Patali Champika Ranawaka, S.B. again st Tam il, as con ten ded by DMK, an d th at learn in g as he poses at Sigoyer, in the German climber discovered the Nawinna, Sagala Ratnayake, Vajira Hindi is the decision of the parents and the child Hautes-Alpes department of bodies of two famed American Abeywardena, State Minister Ru- southeastern France. Photo: AFP climbers, Alex Lowe and David wan Wijewardene, Deputy Min- He said Steck, who climbed Bridges, who were swept away in Everest in 2012, “slipped and fell 1999 by an avalanche during their isters Sarathi Dushmantha Mith- An experienced Swiss climber died said Mingma Sherpa of the Seven rapala, Karu Paranavithana, Sec- on Sunday after he fell in the Ever- Summits Treks company that or- 1,000 metres” in the Western Cwm attempt to scale the world’s 14th along the normal route to Everest. highest peak, Shishapangma. retary to the President, P.B. est region of Nepal during prepa- ganised Steck’s expedition. Steck Abeykoon, Secretary, Ministry of rations to climb the world’s high- was in the area acclimatising ahead The incident took place near the Hundreds of climbers gather at est mountain, the first to perish in of a bid to climb Everest through route’s Camp Two, which is lo- Everest base camp during the Buddha Sasana, Chandrasoma the current climbing season, offi- the less-climbed West Ridge route cated at an altitude of 6,400 me- March-May climbing season as Gamage, Inspector General of Po- cials said. Ueli Steck, 40, died af- and traverse to Lhotse, the world’s tres (21,000 feet), Parajuli said. A they prepare to climb the 8,850 lice and public servants participat- ter falling to the foot of Mount fourth highest peak – at 8,516 veteran climber of Mount An- metre Everest Summit. ed in the review meeting. Nuptse, a smaller peak in the area, metres in May. 17 climbers killed napurna in western Nepal, the (SCMP) (Colombopage) Factories in Sri Lanka Bangladesh looking for asked to generate their own electricity as dry boosting trade exchanges weather continues with Iran: Envoy The Ministry of Power and Re- day time electricity demand has Bangladeshi Commercial Attaché newable Energy has made it com- increased up to 45 million units to Iran Mohammad Sabour pulsory for private factories to use due to hot weather conditions. Hossein underlined that Dhaka is their own generators to produce Night time power demand has also resolved to deepen economic and power for their operations. increased by 10 percent. trade relations with Tehran. "The Union minister Nirmala Sithara- tongue, learn English and learn an- Bangladeshi government will sup- man on Sunday assured there other language (as per the three lan- The state run radio said the Meanwhile, the hydro power private factories have been asked capacity of the country at present port any measure leading to the would be no imposition of Hindi guage formula). Allow learning of expansion of relations with Iran; and lashed out at the Dravida Hindi as the other language. If you to generate their own electricity has decreased to 31 percent. from Tuesday. The Ministry will Therefore Minister of Power and Bangladesh's private sector and Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for don’t want Hindi, it is ok. It is the businessmen are willing to boost accusing the centre of “wanton decision of the parents and the pay a special allowance of 35 ru- Renewable Energy Ranjith Siyam- pees per unit of power they gen- balapitiya has requested the pub- that country's trade and economic thrusting” of the language. “There child,” she said, underlining the transactions with Iran," Hossein is no thrusting of Hindi” as alleged centre was not against Tamil. The erate from their power plants. lic to use electricity sparingly. According to the Ministry, the (CNN) said in a meeting with a group of by DMK working president M.K. DMK had recently announced Iranian businessmen. The Bang- Stalin, Sitharaman told reporters state-wide seminars against what ladeshi envoy reiterated that his at the Chennai airport. Sitharaman, it called “wanton thrusting” of country is looking for the broad- the Union minister of state for Hindi by the centre and decided to ening of relations with Iran in trade, commerce and industry, sought to rope in youngsters and students industrial, investment, training and turn the tables on him, asking what to mobilize public opinion. In a technology transfer. "Bangladesh his party was doing when it was resolution adopted at the DMK is trying hard to help Dhaka-Te- part of the previous Congress-led district secretaries meet on 28 hran economic exchanges to reach United Progressive Alliance (UPA) April, the party had resolved to its highest level in 2017," Hossein regime, indicating there was impo- take the issue to Tamil Nadu’s said. In relevant remarks in late sition of Hindi then. She referred youngsters, students and the peo- March, Iranian Parliament Speak- to the ‘Ek Bharat Shresht Bharat’ ple. To a question on allegations er Ali Larijani voiced Tehran's scheme launched by Prime Minis- by supporters of All India Anna readiness to broaden economic and ter Narendra Modi which involved Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam trade relations with Bangladesh. exchange of people of different (AIADMK) leader T.T.V. Dinaka- "Tehran and Dhaka can expand states. This would include non- ran said that the centre was behind their mutual cooperation," Larijani native speakers of Tamil to get to his arrest in an alleged bribery case, said in a meeting with Bangladesh's know about the language and Tamil Sitharaman wondered how could Ambassador to Tehran Majibur Nadu, she said. “When we have a such claims be made. The case re- Rahman Bhuiyan in the Iranian Prime Minister who makes such lated to alleged attempts to bribe capital. The Iranian parliament efforts, where does the (question an Election Commission (EC) of- speaker reiterated that Iran and of) Hindi imposition come from? ficial and where did the Bharatiya Bangladesh have enjoyed friendly It is not fair on part of Stalin to Janata Party (BJP) come into the and improving relations through- with Iran,” he said. In relevant remarks in October, Bangladeshi Indus- allege Hindi imposition as DMK, matter, she said, adding it was “not out the history, and said, "This try Minister Amir Hossein Amu in a meeting with a delegation of Isfa- which was part of the UPA, could fair” to blame Prime Minister trend of increasing relations should han Chamber of Commerce called for the expansion of economic rela- not stop imposition of Hindi (dur- Modi for everything. not be stopped.” The Bangladeshi tions with Iran. "Bangladesh government seeks to broaden economic ing UPA regime),” she said. On the Dinakaran was recently arrest- ambassador, for his part, voiced ties with Iran," Hossein Amu said. The Bangladeshi industry minister three-language formula in Central ed by the Delhi crime branch fol- Dhaka’s willingness to expand underlined that his government is resolved to expand all-out relations Board of Secondary Education lowing the detention of an alleged political, economic and parliamen- with Tehran. "Dhaka can broaden scope of economic cooperation with (CBSE) affiliated schools, she said middleman on charge of attempt- tarian relations with Iran, and said, Tehran on import of fertilizers, quake-resistant steel products and bitu- the system had been in vogue for a ed bid to bribe an EC official to "My government supports any men," he said. Hossein Amu said that Bangladesh can help Iran in the long time and the National Demo- secure the undivided AIADMK’s measures in this regard." "Private field of pharmaceutical industry and textile industry. The Bangladeshi cratic Alliance (NDA) government ‘two leaves’ symbol for his fac- sector and businessmen in Bang- industry minister also called for launching of Iran-Bangladesh joint eco- had “not brought any new tion. ladesh strongly welcome trade ties nomic commission and chamber of commerce. (BBC) scheme.” “Learn your mother (Livemint) MONDAY . MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Four-year-old boy dies after being hit by

car in Leeds It could take 'at least a decade' for 30 million A four-year-old boy has died af- displaced North Koreans to integrate with South Iran’s leader dismisses ter being hit by a car outside a Korea following conflict medical centre. West Yorkshire As the US and other western coun- mass immigration, Rouhani’s detente policy police are investigating the inci- tries weigh up the costs of inter- Mr Petrov told the publication dent, which happened in Leeds vention in North Korea and the the reunification of East and West on Saturday afternoon. The force potential humanitarian calamity of Germany was a “walk in the park” ahead of vote said it was called at 4.53pm to nuclear war, one expert has men- compared to the two Asian coun- reports of a collision outside the tioned a cost that has mostly been tries. Who would pay the estimat- Reginald Centre on Chapeltown pushed aside. If the dictatorship ed $3 trillion cost of unification Road. A spokesman said: “Emer- of Kim Jong-un is broken down and repair of a country after a war? gency services including ambu- and he and his family are forced to US President Donald Trump re- lance were at the scene in three seek refuge – most likely in China, cently changed his stance on pro- minutes and found a four-year- Russia or South America – then viding US money in the North old child with serious injuries. experts have predicted the most Korea fall-out, first arguing that “The young boy was taken likely outcome would be reunifi- other countries needed to help pay to Leeds general infirmary and cation between North and South the bill, but after meeting Chinese was sadly pronounced de- Korea, a concept which has stalled President Xi Jinping he said that ceased.” The boy’s parents are since 2008. That leaves a North the US could handle the situation being supported by specialist Korean population of 30 million, alone if necessary. The US and officers as inquiries take place, who have long suffered under a South Korea sent a fleet of battle- police said. brutal regime of curfews and forced ships to the North Korean coast Cuban plane crashes, (Theguardian) labour, at risk of more uncertainty this month, and have conducted and possible exploitation. Accord- joint military tests in a show of ing to Australian National Univer- unity against the hostile neighbour. kills 8 troops on sity researcher Leonid Petrov, that North Korea has tested the launch historic move would have a cost of several ballistic missiles in re- of around $3 trillion, and it would cent months, and is reportedly board: Military take “at least a decade” for the two developing a nuclear missile that, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah by the state media on Sunday. "It's populations to integrate. “Both if launched, could reach the shores Ali Khamenei has criticised Presi- been people's presence in the po- countries have been isolated from of the US. “North Korea disre- dent Hassan Rouhani for saying litical scene that has removed the each other, they speak different spected the wishes of China & its his detente policy with the West shadow of war from the country," dialects, understand the world dif- highly respected President when had caused the threat of war to fade he added. Rouhani faces competi- ferently,” he told news.com.au, it launched, though unsuccessful- as tensions intensify in Tehran tion from hardliners who have crit- adding that South Korean authori- ly, a missile today. Bad!,” Mr before May election. Rouhani, a icised his economic record, saying ties might discriminate against their Trump tweeted on 28 April. Mr pragmatist whose election in 2013 detente with the West and nuclear neighbours and treat them as “sec- Trump, who has already detonat- led to a diplomatic thaw between concessions had yet to yield eco- ond class citizens”. “South Korea ed bombs in Syria and Afghanistan, Iran and the West, championed in nomic benefits. Rouhani urged doesn’t need its impoverished, ag- and has carried out a botched raid 2015 a landmark deal in which Te- voters on Saturday to prevent "ex- gressive, poorly educated broth- in Yemen, claimed that a “major, hran agreed to curb its nuclear ac- tremism" returning to Iran, saying Trump invites ers to inundate South Korea,” he major” conflict between the US and tivities in return for lifting of in- the country could face greater au- said. But South Korea’s economy North Korea was "absolutely pos- ternational sanctions. A standoff thoritarianism if he was replaced Philippine is on the brink of crisis and is in sible" but no other western ally between Rouhani, who is seeking by a hardline rival. Among Rou- need of cheap resource and labour, has been so open about that pos- a second term, and Khamenei's al- hani's challengers are Ebrahim Rai- he added, which it would have to sibility. lies, who opposed the nuclear deal, si, an influential cleric with decades president balance with a possible case of (Independent) has intensified in recent months of experience in the hardline judi- ahead of the May 19 vote. ciary, and conservative Tehran Duterte to "Some say since we took of- Mayor Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, fice the shadow of war has been a former Revolutionary Guards A Cuban military plane crashed community in Artemisa surround- faded away. This is not correct," commander. Washington: Kurdish-Arab force into a hillside Saturday in the west- ed by mountains. "After a bit I Khamenei was quoted as saying (Reuters) ern province of Artemisa, killing heard what had happened." Car- White House eight troops on board, the govern- ambola residents watched as am- ment said. Cuba's military said in bulances arrived and police and President Donald Trump invited makes gains against a statement that the Soviet-made soldiers blocked the road leading controversial Philippine President AN-26 took off from the Playa to the accident site. US drone strike Rodrigo Duterte to the White Baracoa airport outside Havana at In November 2010, an Aero- House during a "very friendly" ISIL in Tabqa 6:38 a.m. and crashed outside the Caribbean flight from Santiago to call Saturday, the White House town of Candelaria about 40 miles Havana went down in bad weath- kills five suspected said in a statement. According to away. er as it flew over central Cuba, kill- the White House, Trump "en- The weather was clear and ing all 68 people aboard, including joyed the conversation," which sunny. The military said a special 28 foreigners, in the country's dead- addressed concerns over North commission would investigate the liest air disaster in more than two al-Qaeda fighters Korea. The president also looked cause of the crash. Officials did not decades. forward to visiting the Philippines immediately release any further In 1989, a chartered Cubana in November for two summits information. "At about 7 a.m. I de Aviacion plane flying from Ha- with other Asian nations, it add- was sitting in front of the cafe and vana to Milan, Italy, went down ed. The leaders also discussed the I saw an airplane, which I watched shortly after takeoff, killing all 126 Philippine government's conten- because it looked slow, almost people on board, as well as at least tious war on drugs, which has touching the palm trees," said Regla two dozen on the ground. claimed thousands of lives and Maria Gallardo in Carambola, a (CBSNEWS) drawn criticism from rights groups as well as some Western governments. The statement gave no further details of Duterte's planned visit to Washington, but The US-backed Syrian Democrat- from Gaziantep in neighbouring Dozens of Yazidis said it would be used to discuss ic Forces (SDF) have advanced Turkey, Al Jazeera's Hashem Ahel- the U.S.-Philippine alliance against the Islamic State of Iraq and barra said the fighting in Tabqa which the White House said was the Levant (ISIL) near the armed "could be the most decisive mo- enslaved by IS in "heading in a very positive direc- group's stronghold in Raqqa in ment" in the US-led military cam- tion." Duterte launched a crusade northern Syria, according to a mon- paign against ISIL in Syria. "The A US drone strike has killed five ians, including women and chil- against the trade and use of illegal itor. The SDF, an alliance of Kurd- US-led coalition is intensifying its drugs in the Philippines after as- suspected members of al-Qaeda in dren. The January raid attracted ish and Arab fighters, now controls air strikes to break the group's de- Iraq now free central Yemen, according to local widespread media attention be- suming office in June 2016. Ac- at least 40 percent of the town of fence," he said. "The Americans, cording to leading international news media and a government se- cause one Navy SEAL was also Tabqa, and more than half of its who have expanded their presence curity official. Yemen Ajel, a local killed in what marked the first op- campaign group Human Rights heart, the Old City, the UK-based in the area, hope the capture of Watch, Duterte's crackdown has news website, reported that the eration of its kind authorised by Syrian Observatory for Human Tabqa will speed up the defeat of drone fired three consecutive mis- Trump. However, local sources claimed some 7,000 lives, with Rights (SOHR) said on Sunday. ISIL." The assault on Tabqa began half of those attributed to the siles at 12:30am local time on Sun- told Al Jazeera that the tribal lead- Rami Abdel Rahman, SOHR direc- in late March when SDF forces and day, or 22:30 GMT on Saturday, er, who was the target of the raid, Philippine National Police. tor, said fighting was continuing in their US-led coalition allies were (NBCNEWS) at a car reportedly transporting had repeatedly denied being a the town on Sunday morning. The airlifted behind ISIL lines. Tabqa Thirty-six members of the Yazidi of Humanitarian Affairs said. They weapons to Marib province. member of AQAP. SDF entered Tabqa on Monday as was home to around 240,000 resi- religious minority are free after reached Dohuk two nights ago Speaking on condition of ano- Yemen has been torn apart by Renowned part of their offensive against dents before 2011, and more than nearly three years in the hands of where they are being housed in nymity, a military official told conflict since 2014, when Houthi Raqqa, ISIL's de-facto Syrian cap- 80,000 people have fled to the city so-called Islamic State (IS), the centres established by the UN AFP news agency that the car be- fighters allied with troops loyal to ital. Supported by US-led coali- from other parts of the country. UN says. They have been taken Population Fund. There, they are longed to a local leader of al-Qaeda former president Ali Abdullah climber Ueli tion air strikes and special forces ISIL has put up fierce resistance, to UN centres in Dohuk in Kurdi- being reunited with family mem- in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). Saleh captured large expanses of advisers, the SDF surrounded including using weaponised sh northern Iraq. It is unclear bers and offered care including The strike comes 24 hours after a the Arabian Peninsula country, in- Steck dies Tabqa in early April. The town sits drones, a tactic the group honed in whether they escaped in Iraq or clothing and medical and psycho- similar raid killed three suspected cluding the capital Sanaa. AQAP on a strategic supply route about neighbouring Iraq. The group is were freed, as the UN declined to logical aid, the UN said. Three of AQAP operatives in the southern and a local affiliate of the Islamic near Mount 55km west of Raqqa, and served also fighting street-to-street and give more information to avoid the group will receive specialised Shabwa province, which has been State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, as an important ISIL command using suicide attackers and car jeopardising future releases. IS services at dedicated women's cen- a central target of the US military. also known as ISIS) group have Everest base, housing the group's main pris- bombs to slow the SDF's advance, killed and enslaved thousands of tres. Media captionNadia Murad The US has stepped up its use of exploited Yemen's war to carry out on. It is also adjacent to the Tabqa according to the SOHR. The as- Yazidis after seizing the northern was held captive as a sex slave - drone strikes under President assassinations and bombings, dam, another important strategic sault on Raqqa, dubbed Wrath of A renowned Swiss climber has town of Sinjar in 2014. Kurdish she tells the BBC's Hardtalk how Donald Trump, with the Pentagon mostly in lawless areas in the prize which remains under ISIL the Euphrates, was launched in Peshmerga forces regained control she escaped The UN estimates confirming more than 70 strikes south. According to the UN, more died in a mountaineering accident control. "We gain more ground as November and has seen SDF fight- near Mount Everest in Nepal. in 2015 but many Yazidis were that 1,500 women and girls are still since February 28. The increased than 10,000 people have died - we move towards the centre of the ers capture large expanses of coun- held captive by IS elsewhere as the being held by IS and could be suf- bombing comes after a botched nearly half of them civilians - since Ueli Steck, 40, nicknamed as the city," said SDF commander Mah- tryside around the city. More than “Swiss machine”, died after fall- group took over large swathes of fering protracted sexual abuse. The American raid against AQAP killed an Arab coalition began a campaign dy Ayoob. "We now control many 320,000 people have been killed northern Iraq. The 36 Yazidi sur- UN did not say where the 36 had a number of civilians on January of air strikes in March 2015 to ing to the foot of Mount Nupt- neighbourhoods, and it is just a in Syria since the country's war se, a smaller peak in the area, said vivors include men, women and been held or where they regained 29. The raid on Yakla, an impover- drive out the Houthis and their al- matter of time before Tabqa comes began with anti-government pro- children who were enslaved, the their liberty. ished and desolate town, resulted lies. Mingma Sherpa of the Seven under our control." Reporting tests in March 2011. (AP) Summits Treks company that UN Office for the Co-ordination (BBC) in the deaths of at least 16 civil- (Aljazeera) organised Steck’s expedition. His body has been recovered from the site and taken to Lukla, where the only airport in the Mount Everest area is located. Steck had been planning to climb 8,850- metre Mount Everest and near- by Mount Lhotse next month. He was the first casualty in the The Turkish government expand- Recep Tayyip Erdogan may ease sis and a widening crackdown on Agency, the state-owned news spring mountaineering season in ed its crackdown on dissent and the crackdown and build greater dissent. The crackdown has also wire. The ban followed Wikipe- Nepal that began in March and free expression over the weekend, national consensus after his nar- affected leftists, liberals and mem- dia’s refusal to remove content will end in May. Hundreds of purging nearly 4,000 more public row victory in a recent referendum bers of the secular opposition that the Turkish government found foreign climbers are on the moun- officials, blocking access to Wiki- to expand the power of his office. across most sections of public life, offensive, the government said. tains to attempt to scale Hima- pedia and banning television Instead, Mr. Erdogan has acceler- many of whom have long voiced Jimmy Wales, Wikipedia’s layan peaks in May, when there matchmaking shows. A total of ated the process. Since the refer- their opposition to the Gulen founder, criticized the decision in are a few windows of favourable 3,974 civil servants were fired on endum, and before Saturday’s movement. Those in jail or out of a tweet. “Access to information is weather. Steck was one of the Saturday from several ministries move, the police had detained a job include academics, public a fundamental human right,” he most renowned mountaineers of and judicial bodies, and 45 civil more than 1,000 workers and sus- transport employees, teachers and wrote. “Turkish people I will al- his generation. He was best society groups and health clinics pended a further 9,000 accused of at least 120 journalists — more ways stand with you to fight for known for his speed climbing, were shut down, according to a having ties to an Islamic group than in any other country in the this right.” In another restriction including setting several records decree published in Turkey’s offi- founded by a United States-based world. It was not immediately clear announced this weekend, the gov- for ascending the north face of cial gazette. Turkish internet us- cleric, Fethullah Gulen. The orga- exactly why Wikipedia was tar- ernment decreed that television the Eiger, a classic mountaineer- ers also woke up on Saturday to nization was once allied with Mr. geted, but the ban is the latest sal- channels could no longer broadcast ing peak in the Bernese Alps that find that they no longer had access Erdogan, but is now accused by vo against freedom of expression dating programs, a staple on Turk- he climbed in two hours and 47 to Wikipedia, the free online en- the government of masterminding in Turkey. More than 150 news ish daytime television and a major minutes without using a rope. In cyclopedia written by volunteers. the failed attempt to overthrow outlets have been shut down by source of advertising revenue. The 2013 he achieved the first solo The dismissals mean that an esti- him in July. Those purged on Sat- decree since July, according to one shows had been criticized by peo- climb of the Annapurna south mated 140,000 people have now urday were also accused of having estimate. The government justified ple from across the country’s lib- face in Nepal, having almost died been purged from the state and connections to Mr. Gulen. Patrick the ban by claiming that the site’s eral-conservative divide, with over debasing to the contestants. Conservatives disliked how they often in a fall there in 2007. He received private sectors, and more than Kingsley investigates how people articles constituted “a smear cam- 120,000 people signing a petition fast-tracked the betrothal process, which they said undermined the in- the Piolet d’Or, considered the 1,500 civil groups closed, since a in Turkey are dealing with hard paign against Turkey in the inter- against the format. Feminists said stitution of marriage. “Some of these shows are really out of control,” Oscar of mountaineering, in 2014. failed coup last year. It also ends times in a nation strained by war, national arena,” according to a the spiteful interactions that the Numan Kurtulmus, a deputy prime minister, said in a television inter- opposition hopes that President terrorist insurgencies, a refugee cri- statement published by Anadolu shows sometimes encouraged were view before the ban. (BBC) MONDAY . MAY 01, 2017 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 The Sanctuary Movement AFGHANISTAN TIMES and Women’s Rights: Editor: Mansoor Faizy Phone No: +93-797070563 Sister Struggles E-mail: [email protected] ship status will not leave abusive By Miriam Ticktin homes for fear of being denounced Email: [email protected] On May 1, International Workers or deported. Even without the con- Day, immigrants will join many from temporary climate of regular immi- the labor movement by striking, gration raids and the heightened fear www.afghanistantimes.af marking a "day without immi- of federal and local authorities, such ignorance can have deadly conse- Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi grants." While this is a strategy that has been used every May Day since quences. Thinking about sanctuary 2006, this year, it is also part of a and women's rights together is nec- Advisory editorial board larger struggle for sanctuary, coun- essary to protect many kinds of peo- tering Trump's explicitly racist and ple from violence, but understand- Saduddin Shpoon, Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, restrictive immigration policies. On ing them as part of a larger struggle March 8, women borrowed this tac- also enables shared learning and Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir tic to mark International Women's strategizing. As such, it can lead us Day. They called for "a day without to new political concepts and open- Graphic-Designers: women" to protest Trump's sexist ings. For instance, LGBTQ commu- and homophobic policies. The shar- nities of color have already pio- Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada ing of strategies is a first step in neered projects to transform phys- recognizing that in fact, these two ical space, to make them safe, while Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: movements -- both reinvigorated by being attentive to police brutality Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0708954626, 0778894038 Trump's election -- should be ex- and racial profiling. As Jordan Dunn, By Afrasiab Khattak political and military leadership plicitly joined: The push for wom- a leader of the Sanctuary Working Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan bring the so called jihadist project en's rights must also be a push for Group at the New School, stated, of the yesteryears to an end? So far, "The Audre Lorde Project's Safe The deepening contradictions of the sanctuary. As a recent Texas case Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 the said project has survived Mush- poignantly shows, the struggles OUTside the System Collective fo- post Zia “republic” do not seem to arraf’s “enlightened moderation” cuses on community based strate- be manageable anymore. The de fac- against gender-based violence and Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press and the National Action Plan deportation are very much connect- gies for preventing anti-LGBTQ to isn’t ready to live with even the (NAP) of December 2014. Even the violence without relying on police. semblance of the de jure. The deep ed. On February 9, immigration of- military operations Zarb-e-Azb and ficials arrested Irvin González, a This is something the sanctuary state is ready to attack the leader- Rad-ul-Fasad have failed to root it movement can learn from." ship of every institution that comes transgender woman originally from The constitution says out. Talibanisation of Afghanistan Mexico, at a courthouse where she Through initiatives by cities and in the way of its total control of the still remains the security state’s agen- communities committed to sanctu- state system and it includes even was seeking a protective order da. Interestingly, the security estab- against an abusive boyfriend. She was ary, forms of local sovereignty are people in uniform. After neglecting lishment has been trying to cover being experimented with, built from Article 133 and side-lining the elected assem- charged with illegal re-entry to the up its footprint on the militancy US and is now facing up to a decade the ground up, with the goal of pro- Article One Hundred Thirty-Three: When a judge is accused of a crime, the Supreme Court blies for four years, the present gov- front by resorting to smokescreens. tecting the health, safety and wel- ernment doesn’t have the strength in federal prison on immigration shall, in accordance with the provisions of the law, consider the case. After hearing the defense, Efforts for creating new narratives charges. The backlash was swift. fare of all residents within their com- if the Supreme Court considers the accusation valid, it shall present a proposal to the President that emanates from the democratic are launched by “discovering” the munities, regardless of immigration system to resist the onslaught of the Women's rights advocates rightly for dismissal of the judge. After Presidential approval, the accused judge shall be dismissed and nexus between corruption and ter- argue that her arrest sends a mes- status. There are sanctuary cities deep state. Even the approaching rorism and the patronage of bad Tal- (even states) and sanctuary campus- punished according to the provisions of the law. general election has failed to keep a sage to domestic violence survivors iban by hostile intelligence agencies. that they should not seek help if es, and increasingly, a range of dif- lid over the power struggle among No one is suggesting that the hos- ferent spaces in between, from the various factions of the ruling elites. they do not want to be deported. In tile intelligence agencies don’t use fact, just as these advocates feared, original churches and faith-based Going by the historical experience bad Taliban. They surely do that. institutions that have long provid- of the state system in Pakistan, the on March 21, four women in Colo- But the original designers of project rado dropped their cases of domes- ed shelter for undocumented immi- 8 to 10-year cycle of the civilian Taliban want to hide behind it. Tal- grants, to restaurants and arts spac- dispensation seems to have been tic abuse for fear of being detained iban-based Afghan policy can cre- by US Immigration and Customs es. Looking at these struggles to- completed. But strengthening of ate new security challenges at a time gether, we are prompted to ask if Article 6 of the Constitution in the Enforcement (ICE) agents who were when the US army is gaining a great- spotted outside a Denver courthouse, we could extend the concept of sanc- 18th Amendment has created some er say in policy making for conflict waiting to make arrests. These two tuary to all kinds of difference -- complications for the adventurist zones under the Donald Trump ad- political struggles -- while not iden- gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sex- types in the ruling establishment. ministration. Re-emergence of tical -- are nevertheless inextrica- uality and so on -- not simply to The option of suspending the Con- drones on Pakistan’s western bor- ble. If we do not think about them immigrant status? Indeed, while stitution used by General Zia and ders is a pointer to the future esca- together, we risk not adequately ad- sanctuary -- and the idea of shelters General Musharraf isn’t available lation. Even those who gloat over dressing important forms of discrim- or protected, safe spaces -- suggests anymore. Any future direct military the Russian contacts with Taliban ination and exclusion. Viewing these that there is always a dangerous "out- intervention wouldn’t be possible take a very myopic view of the sit- issues together brings to light the side" as a counterpoint to the safer without total abrogation of the 1973 uation. Unlike the far away US, Rus- gendered dynamics of the ways im- "inside," might we imagine other- Constitution. This situation has en- sia and China are seriously threat- migrant and citizenship statuses are wise? Could sanctuary be deployed hanced the role of the higher judi- ened by extremist and violent Is- lived, and indeed, to the way every to get rid of the "outsides," opening ciary in the process of “regime relationship to the state is gendered. up to everyone, and acknowledging lamic movements. Central Asia and that we all need forms of protec- change”. The mischief of Articles Muslim parts of the Russian Federa- And González's case provides a stark 62 and 63 in their post Zia form is example of how citizenship and asy- tion? As a society, could we create tion remain the soft underbelly of sanctuary cities for all forms of vi- coming into play. There have been Russia. Same is the case with Xin- lum processes are not only gendered, some important transitions started but also racialized: one must present olence and exploitation? The sanc- jiang in China. At the moment, the tuary movement offers us a flexible by the government of Prime Minis- so called IS is the declared threat. oneself in the right "gendered" form ver two years after the drawdown of foreign troops, a group ter Nawaz Sharif that couldn’t be to be considered a "worthy" immi- political concept. Indeed, the fact But IS is just a part of the terror that sanctuary has no particular le- of about 300 US Marines has returned to the ballet-weary completed. One of the most impor- syndicate and is capable of getting grant, or a "legitimate refugee." tant was shifting from the Cold War’s These misguided views are often gal status actually allows us to de- refurbished by large scale recruit- ploy it politically in new and pow- southern province of the country. US soldiers have come geo-strategic to the 21st century’s ment from the ranks of Taliban, based on hurtful, discriminatory ste- geo-economic. Hence the talk about reotypes. For instance, as much erful ways. In its intersection with LeT, JeM and other jihadist net- feminist and queer movements, we again to the Helmand province to help the Afghan security forces to Pakistan becoming an Asian tiger. works. This is happening in plain scholarship shows, non-Muslims in It obviously involved normalisation Europe and the United States often can push to imagine new forms it nip the evil in the bud. Commander of US and NATO forces in sight. It’s just a question of rebrand- might take -- we can stretch it. Fem- of relations with India. Nawaz Sharif ing. It explains the potential for perceive Muslim women as op- has been pretty consistent about this pressed, and in need of being saved inist notions of vulnerability can be Afghanistan, General John Nicholson attended a handover ceremo- expansion of IS in our region at a helpful here, calling into question policy. But any major breakthrough time when it is under squeeze in the from their patriarchal cultures. As ny, marking the return of the elite forces, the first American soldiers on this front hasn’t been possible such, Muslim women are more like- the body as discrete, singular, au- Middle East. Lest we forget, the last tonomous and self-sufficient, and so far due to tough resistance of the battle against religious extremist ly to be recognized and given pa- to be deployed in Afghanistan since 2014. However, the new deploy- security establishment internally and pers if they present themselves to understanding embodiment as rela- violence in this region will be fought tional, including our dependency on ment would form part of Resolute Support’s train, advice, and assist the changing political landscape in by China and Russia as it constitutes immigration or asylum officers as India. Moreover elements in the subjugated and demure. And law en- material infrastructural conditions. an existentialist threat to them. As In this sense, we all need protection mission. This has been taking place just one day before the Taliban security establishment are restless if this wasn’t enough by militarily forcement and immigration officials for joining the new Cold War be- in the US tend to consider men of -- we all need infrastructure to live. insurgents announced their spring offensive, warning to accelerate its teaming up with Saudi monarchy in We are mutually vulnerable, mutu- tween Russia and the west that could violation of Parliament’s resolution color more compelling and less sus- create new complications for Paki- picious if they are appropriately ally exposed. To be clear, empha- campaign of bombings, ambush attacks, complex attacks and Im- the Nawaz Sharif government is sizing vulnerability in this sense does stan in a situation where the coun- putting oil on the sectarian fire. masculine so as to conform to basic try has yet to overcome the fallout gender norms without being so mas- not assume we are all victims first provised Explosive Device (IED) operations. Moreover, US admin- Tension on borders with Iran is vis- and foremost. Rather, vulnerability of the old Cold War. The growing ibly growing. culine as to be seen as "threaten- istration is evaluating plan to send as many as 5,000 additional troops incidents of extremist violence in ing." For LGBTQ folks, receiving is inherent to political action. We The scenario appears this bleak are politically active, and we mobi- to the country. The aim of these soldiers is to train Afghan security the ever expanding sphere of vigi- because the political leadership is in asylum on the basis of homophobic lantism epitomises the challenge of discrimination requires very partic- lize precisely because we are vulner- total disarray and there is a discon- able together, and require certain forces to tackle counter-terror operations against Taliban insurgents, radicalisation, which in Pakistan’s nect between the state and society. ular gendered performances. Again, case has been a by-product of mili- for lesbians, research has demon- material and social conditions to Islamic State (IS), also known as Daesh terrorist, and other militant Political leadership has no agenda live. To be sure, even within these tarisation of the state. It is a radic- for reforming itself and the state strated that appearing as a "butch" - - whether or not one may identify struggles, there are differences and outfits. Since Taliban insurgents are a great threat, so no argument alised state that has led to the radi- system. The poet Iqbal says, “Na- layers. Take, for example, the issue calisation of society. Efforts at de- ture may look the other way when as "high femme" -- is most effec- tive in persuading immigration of- of immigrant labor and the fact that over the deployment would have ground to stand. We want Taliban radicalisation of society are doomed it comes to individual’s deviation but migrant women are often employed to fail without addressing the prob- it never forgives sins of the millat ficials of one's need for asylum. As a insurgents to be eliminated from the province as they (Taliban) effec- society, we must be attentive to the -- and sometimes exploited by -- lem in the state that is the root (nation).” other women. There is an inherent cause. By weaponising blasphemy, different risks and forms of gendered tively controls or contests 10 of Helmand’s 14 districts, aided by a Afrasiab Khattak is a retired violence. Otherwise, we risk perpet- tension there that makes clear that the deep state is just dancing to the Senator and an analyst of regional women are not a homogeneous huge opium harvest. Poppy is considered as a great source of in- tunes of violent extremism. Despite uating a situation where women and affairs trans people with precarious citizen- group. Neither, of course, are im- come for the Taliban insurgents—it has to be halted through clearing their best intentions, can the present migrants. (Truthout) the province from their presence. There is no denying to the fact that Afghan forces shouldered complete responsibility for security of Helmand province. The brave security forces did level best in fight against terrorism—no single doubt in their abilities. But now, with this new deployment fighting has to go faster to purge Taliban’s from the province. Sending more troops is a good move—if it bears any result. If security situation of the province didn’t shaken positively, the deployment would be meaningless. Empty steps could not re- move militants. Certainly, the Afghan security forces have the heart and ability to stand against all form of insurgency, but the new US Marines should train them how to fight as cohesive units. The securi- ty forces are fighting insurgents with high moral and spirit. Security forces have killed a large number of militants across the country. But, Helmand has been remained Taliban’s stronghold for longtime—with this new deployment, the Taliban’s has to be targeted in their strong- holds. Security forces have sacrificed a lot in war against insurgents Mathematics Pashto e r ad across the country in general, but in Helmand in particular. It means a h g ks ur t oo Fo ol b lot for the Afghan government and people to see Helmand free of cho Taliban insurgents and other militant outfits. s Dar i Subscription Rates Note: The following rates will apply from January 01, 2017. Fee Categories Afghanistan Times 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. MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By Ann Deslandes Dr Ann Deslandes is an Australian freelance writer and researcher, currently based in Mexico City.

US Vice President Mike Pence has confirmed, with some reluctance, that an Obama-era deal to resettle refugees who are currently detained by Australia in the United States will still go ahead. He did so on a visit to Australia last week, when he also reinforced the military friendship of the US and Australia, particularly against any nuclear threat from North Korea. Pence's hesitation about the refu- By Andrew Mitrovica gee deal was a milder expression of 20th, the defining nature of Trump's North Korea, to Syria and Iran, the Trump administration's feelings the deal is an impressive deferral of human responsibility on the part of Globalization Andrew Mitrovica is an award-winning investi- administration has been on routine Trump has clutched his generals and on the subject. Pence noted that the gative reporter and journalism instructor. and often gob-smacking display. the the military-industrial-security confirmation "doesn't mean we ad- both sides of Australian politics. In- Obama's pollyanish assurances about complex even closer to his tough- mire the agreement". deed, despite considerable divergenc- of terrorism America's inherent "wisdom" are as guy bosom. NATO is, for now, safe- Back in January the US president es between the Trump/Pence poli- abashed celebration of ignorance and cockeyed today as they were on the ly intact. Finally, and perhaps referred to the deal, struck between cy platform on both sides, not to in the service trademark Lord-of-the-Flies-like eve of the election. "Progressives" most grating of all, are the pundits the US and Australia under the mention a strong dislike of the At times, the past 100 days have selfishness disguised as "libertarian- or "liberals" - take your pick - are who cling like starved leeches to the Obama administration, as "dumb", Trump administration among con- felt like 100 years, where every day ism". loath to acknowledge this. The so- moronic theory that somehow, at and vowed to kill it off after the stituent Australians, leaders from the of bigotry resembled the last - like a recurring Solid support called resistance prefers, instead, to sometime, Trump will "grow" into "worst call by far" with Australian government and opposition parties nightmare. But this nightmare isn't Trump was vaulted into the bury these uncomfortable truths in the job. The hope is that a 70-year- prime minister and leader of the welcomed Vice President Pence to By Eyad Abu Shakra a figment of our subconscious; it's White House with the zealous back- an endless blur of cobweb-like con- old with the attention span of a Liberal-National Coalition govern- Australia with open arms. real, inescapable and destined to con- ing of 63 million Americans who spiracy theories and to direct their squirrel will, after a moment of in- ment Malcolm Turnbull (or "Trum- Uncertain future In real democracies elections are a tinue for another 1,300 days or so. either explicitly share, or have veiled anger and recriminations at more trospection, recognise that he's been ble", according to White House Press This happened because it suits ‘means’ not an ‘end’. This is not In the face of this surreal, mind- sympathy for, his overt racism, xe- palatable villains in far away lands. doing it all wrong and abandon his Secretary Sean Spicer). The reset- both sides of Australian politics to the case with other types of democ- numbing prospect, much of the sen- nophobia and jingoism; and, I sus- Paging Vladimir Putin and Julian pernicious ways. Note to the fanta- tlement arrangement concerns the have the refugees "taken" by an- racy; such as the democracies of tient world inside and outside of the pect, they don't give a damn if the Assange. Then, there is the delu- sists: Trump has already shown that 1,250 refugees who are currently other nation. Pence's assurance al- cheap slogans, and %90 victories US is struggling with how to respond "elite" media gives their political sional band of liberals who, while he is genetically, as well as temper- imprisoned in offshore processing lows the Australian government and which we have experienced in our to a dystopian-tinged Donald Trump messiah a failing grade or not. Like fatally allergic to Trump's brand of amentally, incapable of managing camps on Manus Island in Papua New opposition to escape responsibility countries, either to imitate others regime. In this depressing context, Trump, the president's legions of populism, looked forward eagerly to such a miraculous metamorphosis. Guinea, and on the island nation of for their international obligations or to ingratiate ourselves to them the pat "report card" accounting of disciples not only take comfort in his presidency's possible "good bits" There is nothing to be redeemed Nauru. to provide protection to refugees. in order to escape their pressure or Trump's first century of days in of- their manifest ignorance and retro- - including nixing NATO, one-sided because there is nothing remotely The refugees, hailing from zones of And no doubt, in return, Pence and anger. This year, political observers fice strikes me as a silly, meaning- grade nationalism, but also reject multi-lateral trade agreements and redeeming about a Trump presiden- danger in the Middle East, Asia, and Trump can expect unquestioning have been awaiting three major less anachronism. An obituary is, outright the notion that government renunciating US interventionism. cy. Donald Trump's first 100 days Africa, have been stuck in these military support for the current and scheduled elections in the Nether- arguably, the order of the day. De- can be a salutary force in any way, The past 100 days should have are a template for the remaining camps for over four years now. De- any coming escalation of US wars. lands, France, and Germany, follow- spite the death of rationality and for any cause, anywhere - unless it taught them a swift and blunt les- 1,362. The question is: will we be spair and depression are endemic. Australia's political leaders can also ing the Brexit referendum in the UK decency in America, the good news involves dropping bombs in the same son: never trust a weathervane-like able to see the horror through? There is extensive documentation continue to dodge any consequenc- and the US presidential elections. is that several apocalyptic prophe- places and on the same people a suc- demagogue to keep his word. From (Aljazeera) of child abuse, sexual assault, and es for the systematic human rights However, certain calculations have cies about a Trump presidency have cession of other US presidents has torture. People have been killed. abuse of Australian immigration de- prompted British Prime Minister also proven to be dead on arrival. dropped bombs on. The hope is People have been beaten. Human tention, in which both sides are im- Theresa May to call for a snap ear- We're still here. World War III has that a 70-year-old with the atten- rights authorities have repeatedly plicated. The policy of mandatory ly election. As if the Brexit ‘earth- not broken out (yet) even after tion span of a squirrel will, after a condemned conditions in the camps indefinite detention for boat arriv- quake’ has not been enough, and the Trump lied about which way an "ar- moment of introspection, recogn- Europe needs to step and the policy which justifies them, als was introduced by the Labor par- Scottish nationalists’ drive for in- mada" was headed in the Pacific and ise that he's been doing it all wrong ty (currently in opposition) in 1992; dependence is not gathering added bombed a barren Syrian airfield be- and abandon his pernicious ways. i.e. the mandatory indefinite deten- cause Ivanka told him to. Oh, and tion of people who arrive at Austra- the "Pacific Solution" that led to momentum, voters in the UK will And, like Trump, their understand- up its game in Syria the establishment of the detention find themselves on 8 June facing a the only (trade) war he's declared is ing of how and why governments lia by boat and request asylum. on loveable Canada over milk and 'Everyone is terrified' centres on Nauru and Manus Island second general election in less than work is distilled into bumper-stick- was implemented when Kevin Rudd one year and one month after the lumber. Meanwhile, the US consti- er slogans they find, not surprising- By Mazen Darwish Operations conducted by the tution's intrinsic system of checks Australian Department of Immigra- was prime minister in 2013. There's last one. Two days before the first ly, persuasive and easy to compre- plenty of doubt as to the substance round of France’s presidential elec- and balances has thwarted signature hend. I doubt Trump's supporters Mazen Darwish is a Syrian lawyer, activ- tion and its contractors are shroud- chunks of Trump's legislative agen- ed in secrecy and lies, and the Aus- of the deal beyond the words of tions, in the London apartment of seriously expected that he would ist, and former political prisoner. Pence, Turnbull/Trumble, and Dut- an anglophile friend, there was a live- da - from his odious travel bans to make America great again or build tralian Minister for Immigration, his bigoted attacks on funding for Peter Dutton, regularly rejects the ton. We don't know how long it will ly discussion about how the French his fantasy wall during his first 100 be before any resettlement occurs. and British deal with their respec- sanctuary cities. Happily, judges are days. So, beyond affirming what we veracity of reports from refugees giving Trump the legal middle fin- the stage for a political transition. themselves. We don't know what will happen to tive democratic systems. During that already know, the proverbial cata- people who do not meet the United discussion, we touched on two in- ger, as are some rogue members of logue of Trump's litany of humili- Europe is also positioned to apply This week, Behrouz Boochani, the Republican party who think he's I was in Brussels recently with other pressure on Assad and its allies. As a a Kurdish journalist and refugee de- States' avowed "strict vetting" cri- terconnected aspects: The differ- ating policy failures, brazen lies, ence in ‘party culture and traditions’, gone too far or not far enough. nepotism, incompetence and volte- Syrian civil society representatives human rights defender, I urge Eu- tained on Manus Island, reported teria for resettlement. to meet with EU and UN officials We don't know how many peo- and the difference in ‘personal and Trump is pretending to try hard to faces has had, to date, little, if any, rope to use its economic powers to that on April 14: "drunk [Papua New wrest free from the straight-jacket tangible political consequence. In- to reinforce our key demands on sanction Iranian and Russian indi- Guinea] soldiers had a serious argu- ple the "strict vetting" is likely to social moods’ between the French and British (primarily, English) vot- of Washington's deeply entrenched, deed, a recent opinion poll revealed protection, accountability, human- viduals who are complicit in the ment with refugees who had been take in, and we don't know what re- itarian access and especially the need strictions will be placed on resettled ers. The French who vote today for corrective ways. He's stuck in the that a stupefying 98 percent of those Assad regime's war crimes. Thirdly, using the soccer field. swamp he promised to drain. On cue, 63 million Americans stand square- for a meaningful inclusion of civil Europe needs to lead the account- During the incident that fol- refugees in a country that is cur- their new president live a political culture different from that of their Trump wails like a colicky baby, ly behind their transparently inept society in the Syrian political pro- ability effort. As a former detainee, lowed, the drunk soldiers shot about rently enacting policy against Mus- cess. Our discussions were over- lim refugees, sanctuary cities for neighbors across the English Chan- pointing an accusatory finger of man at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue I can tell you that I - just like mil- 100 times. Bullets hit the refugees' nel. Behind this fact are several fac- blame at everyone but himself. There who once confidently boasted that showed by the heinous chemical at- lions of Syrians who have fled Syria rooms and tents, and some refugees migrants, and foreign aid to many tacks in Khan Sheikhoun, that re- parts of the world that make refu- tors, including: 1- The Geo-Envi- is more poseur in Trump than pres- he could shoot someone on Fifth - will not return home unless credi- were injured by rocks that were ronmental factor, as France is very ident. Still, the Trump Avenue and "not lose any voters". sulted in the death of many civil- ble measures are put in place to hold thrown at them by local people." gees. With Pence's announcement, ians, including innocent women and Australia's government and opposi- much a part of the European main- presidency can't be measured using Why? war criminals to account. The cur- On April 16, refugees detained in land; and thus has witnessed since the familiar domestic and geopolit- Trump's rabidly loyal voters are, children. The attack illustrated once rent lack of justice only helps the the Manus Island camp issued an tion politicians have dodged respon- again the urgent need for the pro- sibility for their own bullets this the dawn of history endless con- ical formulas to pass judgment on like their leader, giddy nihilists. extremist narrative. We need to ad- S.O.S., which reads: "We people who quests, waves of immigration and the essential essence and political Trump is a mirror reflection of most tection of civilians if we are to see dress this head on. This is not about have been detained on Manus Island time. the end of a conflict that has gone But while the policy of manda- settlement, and centuries of multi- acumen of a nascent presidency. of them - seething, white, grievance- revenge. This is about finding a path for about 4 years against our will, ethnic interaction that have left a This trite ritual at this traditional addicted and determined to destroy on for too long. That's why when forward where all Syrians can heal are requesting to be moved to some tory immigration detention remains the US launched retaliatory strikes in place in Australia, there will be huge cumulative imprint on the benchmark assumes, absurdly, that any political, societal or diplomatic and have trust in a sustainable polit- safe place. We've been under mili- French identity. Across the Chan- Trump has a bona fide interest in progress and norm while they seize against the Syrian regime for the ical settlement. Finally, Europe tary attack by machine guns and also other human rights scandals for Aus- governing and in the welfare of the use of chemical weapons, we Syri- tralian governments to manage in nel, the British are ‘islanders’, which the stunning opportunity to restore should insist that no reconstruction locals a couple times in which once is a reality not only do they pro- governed. Clearly, this textbook their ugly, insular idea of America. ans celebrated. Nobody wants to ask aid would be given without a guaran- Reza Berati was murdered in 2014. the future. The policy, particularly narcissist is preoccupied exclusive- for foreign intervention against its the maintenance of the island pris- fess, but also stress to justify their Nothing to be redeemed tee of a political transition. Other- We don't feel safe here and are very tendency for exclusivity and excep- ly with the fortunes of his family, Trump's victory remains, as own country. But the US response wise, Europe will end up financing worried about our safety in the Cen- on camps, costs billions of taxpay- his gold-tinted brand, his hotels and was a long overdue international first er dollars, and detention contrac- tion. Still, while one must not dis- well, an indictment of Barrack the Assad regime itself and will risk ter. miss the multi-ethnic side in the golfing. Trump is the only cause he's Obama's jarring naivety. Not too step to protect Syrian lives. To be aiding and abetting his vicious war Everyone is terrified due to cur- tors, such as Broadspectrum (for- interested in. Beyond this axiom, truly effective, the US action must merly Transfield) and Wilson Secu- identity of the British, recalling the long ago, No Drama Obama public- crimes. I understand none of these rent attack by PNG Defence Forces waves of conquests which brought the past 100 days have confirmed ly assured the rest of us nervous nel- now turn into a comprehensive options are easy. But they are not by Machine guns. Our lives is in rity, registering increasing corporate what ought to have been understood mechanism to protect civilians not risk in running the centres as part- the Celts, Romans, Angles and Sax- lies that he had faith in the wisdom impossible if Europe shows politi- Danger, please remove us to some ons, Juts, Normans and others to long ago - Trump is the embodi- of Americans to ultimately reject only from chemical attacks but also cal will. The real work on Syria's place safe." ners of the Department of Immi- ment of much of America's un- from all indiscriminate attacks gration. As Pence has made it clear Great Britain, the centuries’ old Trump. They didn't. Since January future begins after a political transi- Considering the deadly risks semi-isolation of the island has en- against civilians that remain the big- tion, when Syrians are tasked with they face in the island camps, the that support to dodge human rights gest killer of civilians in Syria. Eu- obligations won't be coming from sured a semblance of homogeneity while France and the UK have both gone through civil wars and dynastic rebuilding a war-torn society. We refugees detained by Australia no in its central areas (as the Celts rope has a key role to play in this know many questions will need to doubt have to hope that Pence's an- the US again - how will Australia changes, the French have been more at home with ‘revolution’, as com- moved to the peripheries in Scot- pared with ‘evolution’ – or gradual change – in the UK. In the latter, this effort. European member states are be addressed for stability to hold. nouncement means they will find sustain its cruel and costly stance well placed to work closely with the on refugees going forward? land, Wales, and Cornwall). This is has been the pattern since Magna Carta, and later ‘The Restoration’ (of What will be done to reintegrate dis- some safety and personal restora- not exactly true for France. 2- The US to stem the violence across Syr- placed people? How will we address tion in the US. At the same time, (Aljazeera) monarchic rule after the Oliver Cromwell’s Commonwealth period follow- factor of political change. Here, ing the parliamentarians’ rebellion against king Charles I). Hence, if ‘The ia and create the conditions for a terrorism? How will we rebuild Syr- French Revolution’ helped shape the political identity of France, and the genuine political solution. Each day ia's destroyed infrastructure? What storming of the Bastille became its national day it celebrates annually, the without the prospects of a viable instruments are necessary for de- British position vis-à-vis rebellions or revolution is totally different. In political solution, the greater the mocracy to work? The international fact, the British political establishment has been averse to any kind of threat of violence, instability, dis- community must hear and respond armed struggle against the state as sedition, and in today’s jargon an act of placement, and extremism for Syr- to the concerns of the Syrian civil LETTER TO THE EDITOR terrorism. This is why London treated not the Irish Republican Army ia and the West. This is why solving society. For Syrian civil society, members, but also George Washington and the Mahatma Gandhi as “terror- the Syrian crisis is in the interest of these challenges are not new. We ists”. 3- The organizational/institutional factor. This applies when we see Europe. Syria has triggered an epic have been working on these ques- that the roles played by historic ‘larger than life’ individuals (such as refugee crisis that Europe has to tions and doing the hard work for Napoleon Bonaparte, Charles De Gaulle, and Francois Mitterrand) in France manage at great costs. And Syria has six years. We risk our lives to build a were much greater than those of political parties even during democratic spawned a dangerous terror threat Syria that is free, democratic, and rule. In the UK the opposite is true, as British political parties have always that has already affected many Eu- inclusive. Many, like myself, have been ‘larger’ than the aura of their most successful leaders. One proof is ropean capitals as recently shown spent years in prison for these ef- that Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair, the two longest serving Conserva- in the tremendous terrorist attacks forts, enduring torture, physical tive and Labour prime ministers in the last 100 years, were brought down in London and Stockholm. The US abuse and even starvation. Too Afghanistan has been in war for more than three decades. The Afghan masses want a full stop to by their own parties, not defeated by the opposition. During that evening decision to hold the Assad regime to many more have brutally been killed at my anglophile friend’s apartment, those present talked about the ‘mood- account for the chemical attack has in the process. Still, we will not give this prolong war. This war should be ended through any ways and means as the Afghan masses the potential to pave the way to a have been tired of war and desperately looking toward peace and security to be restored in the iness’ of the French voters as opposed to the consistency, even predictabil- up. That is why Syrian civil society ity, of their British counterparts. Among the things said was that Theresa political transition in Syria. It can members are among the best placed war-hit country. May would not have called for snap general elections 3 years before the life change - and has already changed - to help create sustainable peace. It Peace is the first demand of the masses. The National Unity Government should take every of the current Parliamentary term had she was not sure she would win big; the calculations of the Assad re- is the activists, humanitarians, hu- available resource to restore peace and security in the country. No more room left for the already something which would ensure her a lager majority, and give her the free- gime. (Regime airstrikes against ci- man rights defenders and educators troubled Afghans to further bear the brunt of casualties. Government should convince the Tali- dom to finalize the UK’s exit from Europe. Those holding this view noted vilians dropped soon after the US who will be key to reconstruction, ban insurgents to renounce violence or they will face with iron hands of the Afghan security that she must have calculated – based on opinion polls – that the Labour action. This shows how the regime solving the refugee crisis, and com- opposition was in a pretty bad shape under its current radical leftist leader can respond when faced with credi- bating extremism. We are ready to forces through military operations in order to eliminate them all. Jeremy Corbyn, particularly, since Corbyn has lost Labour the support of ble international action.) The pros- do whatever it takes to establish a Mudasir Ahmad, Kabul Afghanistan the uncommitted ‘floating’ voters, against the background of a divided pects of protection will also create free, democratic and stable Syria. opposition parties, and increasing threat of secessionist nationalists, namely the necessary space on the ground But to do so the international com- in Scotland. Despite the fact that opinion polls went badly wrong twice last to allow moderate voices and civil- munity must hear and respond to year, with ‘Brexit’ and US presidential elections, the clear cut single-con- ian structures to counter extremists. the concerns of the Syrian civil so- stituency party-based British general elections are usually easier to predict As I say, Europe has a key role to ciety. We are not a "nice to have", than the result of a single-issue referendum that divided both Conservatives play in this effort. First, European but a fabric of Syria's present and and Labour down the middle. In France, it has been more difficult to predict states should work with the US to future. Together, Europe and Syr- the outcome. What is at stake is not just how to satisfy the voters of a deter all indiscriminate attacks ia's civil society can still chart a Letter to editor will be edited for policy, content and clarity. All letters must country where there are 264 types of cheese – as De Gaulle famously said against civilians. If civilians are se- course for Syria's future. But first have the writer’s name and address. You may send your letters to: –, but also the broad spectrum of candidates from the extreme right to the riously protected this will compel we need your help to stop the bombs [email protected] extreme Left, while the traditional ‘establishment’ candidates trailing bad- the regime to engage substantively and make justice prevail. ly. The latest polls gave both the Republican Gaullist candidate and the in the Geneva process and will set (Aljazeera) Socialist candidates less support than the extreme Right’s Marine Le Pen and the independent centrist Emmanuel Macron, and sometimes even the extreme Left’s Jean-Luc Melenchon. Then, as if all this was not enough, the Muslim identity of the ‘Champs Elysees Terrorist’ could only boost the Disclaimer: chances of Le Pen, as well as the Republican Francois Fillon, who has shared a lot of her stances on Muslims and immigrants during the last The views and opinions expressed in the articles are months. A final thought. British democratic traditions have proven to be those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views or capable of containing extremism. While in France, is a second and decisive round of voting enough to prevent ‘globalized terrorism’ from making opinions of the Afghanistan Times. fear-nurtured isolationism and bigotry… the major voter? (Alarabya) MONDAY. MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

North Korea’s decision not to car- brink of war.” The U.S. statement new type of ballistic missile ry out a sixth nuclear test or a ma- said the additional pressure to be launch. Putting its military might jor missile launch in connection put on North Korea will be aimed on display, the United States or- with its key anniversaries in April, at persuading Kim Jong Un’s re- dered the aircraft carrier Carl Vin- UN calls for halt to contrary to widespread predic- gime “to de-escalate and return to son and three other warships in tions, could herald a return to be- the path of dialogue.” A senior April to steam toward the vicinity hind-the-scenes diplomacy be- White House official who spoke of the Korean Peninsula. The ac- South Sudan fighting tween Pyongyang and Washington. on condition of anonymity said, tion was initiated between a U.S. U.S. President Donald Trump’s “We have timelines in mind for cruise missile strike against Syria administration has not shown any what we would like to see change, and the dropping of its most pow- intention to drop its mantra that but it’s mainly event-driven.” “It erful nonnuclear bomb on Islamic all options, including a military depends on the actions of North State fighters in Afghanistan. “The strike, are on the table. But a state- Korea. It depends on the actions world witnessed the strength and ment released by the U.S. admin- of others whose help we’re look- resolve of our new president in istration on Wednesday after an ing for in resolving this problem actions taken in Syria and Afghan- extraordinary classified briefing on and moving toward the goal of de- istan,” U.S. Vice President Mike North Korea for the entire Senate nuclearization of the Korean Pen- Pence said in a speech in mid-April made no specific reference to mil- insula,” the official said. Not all in South Korea. “North Korea itary options. It instead highlight- North Korea watchers had expect- would do well not to test his re- ed that Trump’s approach aims “to ed there would be another nuclear solve.” For its own part, North pressure North Korea into disman- test around the 105th anniversary Korea too has signaled that it re- tling its nuclear, ballistic missile of its late state founder’s birth on mains open to negotiations. A flur- and proliferation programs by April 15 or the 85th anniversary ry of statements issued through tightening economic sanctions and of its armed forces on Tuesday. the country’s official media fol- The United Nations on Saturday this week. "The renewed upsurge pursuing diplomatic measures with Bong Young-shik, a research fel- lowing the dispatch of the U.S. called for a halt to fighting in South in fighting represents a callous and our allies and regional partners.” A low at Yonsei University’s Insti- Navy battle group and the two Sudan after the government blatant disregard of the pledges major focus is how the new U.S. tute for North Korean Studies in military strikes in April have main- first vice foreign minister and its Park Geun-hye, who had been very launched a new offensive earlier this made during the 25 March 2017 administration will deal with North Seoul, was one such voice, saying tained a bellicose tone. But if read point man on nuclear issues, and tough on Pyongyang. Though the week. South Sudanese government IGAD (Intergovernmental Author- Korea from now on, and whether it was “too risky for Pyongyang closely, most of them hinge on a Ri Son Gwon, head of its state- race is tight, Moon Jae-in, the forces targeted a town in the north ity on Development) Summit to there will be even a slight adjust- to clearly cross the red line.” In warning that North Korea will in- level agency dealing with inter- front-runner in polls who is from on Wednesday, displacing civilians implement a ceasefire and to facil- ment to its approach after tensions the face of direct U.S. military evitably resort to military means Korean affairs. The revival of the the left-leaning Democratic Party the UN said may be headed to- itate humanitarian access," Dujar- have escalated to a level described threats, it is perhaps no wonder if attacked or if its sovereignty is panel, endorsed during this year’s of Korea, has expressed his will- ward the border with Sudan. "We ric said, calling on all sides to re- by Pyongyang as close to “the that North Korea has opted out of threatened. Some experts on the parliamentary session, is seen by ingness to seek early talks with are disturbed by the escalation of turn to the negotiating table. "There a banned nuclear explosion or a North Korea issue have noted the the experts as a possible sign of North Korea. Bong of Yonsei Uni- violence and subsequent suffering can be no military solution to the country’s move to re-establish the North Korea’s preparedness for a versity said he expects “the of civilians in South Sudan as a re- crisis in South Sudan." This week's Diplomatic Commission of the Su- new diplomatic offensive against Trump administration will hold a sult of the recent government of- attack was the latest in an upsurge preme People’s Assembly, which South Korea and the United States. military option for a while in or- fensive," Stephane Dujarric, in fighting in South Sudan since the was announced three days before North Korea is well aware that der to have Beijing move first in spokesman for Secretary-General beginning of the year that has driv- the 105th birth anniversary of na- South Korea will elect a new pres- taking putative actions.” Through Antonio Guterres, said in a state- en tens of thousands of civilians tional founder Kim Il Sung. The ident on May 9, which could lead its official media, China has hinted ment. "We urge the government from their homes. After gaining in- committee is headed by Ri Su to a dramatic foreign policy shift. at the possibility of cutting off its and other warring parties to cease dependence from Sudan in 2011, Yong, a vice chairman of the Work- The election is heavily tilted to- oil supply to North Korea if it hostilities, uphold their responsi- the country descended into war in ers’ Party of Korea, who is the top ward candidates from liberal par- conducts another nuclear test in bility to protect civilians and co- December 2013, leaving tens of official in charge of overseeing for- ties in the wake of the corruption defiance of U.N. Security Council operate with the United Nations thousands dead and more than 3.5 eign affairs. Other members include and abuse-of-power scandal that resolutions. and other humanitarian actors to million people displaced. In Feb- Kim Kye Gwan, North Korea’s ousted conservative President (Japantimes) ensure safe access to all civilians ruary, South Sudan and the United in imminent danger along the West Nations formally declared a fam- Bank of the River Nile." Some ine in parts of northern Unity State 50,000 people in Kodok in Upper affecting 100,000 people, a disas- 2580 civilians were executed Nile state, many of whom fled ter UN officials said was "man- Karabakh army: Azerbaijan fighting six weeks ago in the town made" and could have been avert- of Wau Shilluk, were at risk from ed. fired from mortar at night by IS over 34 months of the violence, the UN said earlier (Digitaljournal) The adversary violated the cease- weapons, the defense army in- fire along the line of contact be- formed Armenian News- tween the Karabakh and Azer- NEWS.am. In addition, the adver- Declaring the “Caliphate” baijani opposing forces over 35 sary fired two mortar shells from Iran, EU to build times, from late Saturday night to a 60 mm mortar, in a southerly di- ed by the organization in Al- early Sunday morning. During this rection of the line of contact. Mab’oujeh village which is inhab- time the Azerbaijani armed forces But the Artsakh defense army ited by citizens of Ismailia, Sunni fired around 630 shots toward the units control the operational stra- advanced nuclear and Alawite communities in the position-holders of the Republic tegic situation and they continue eastern countryside of Salamiyyeh of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh confidently carrying out their mil- city, they were burned, slaughtered Republic/NKR) Defense Army, itary watch. and shot, and also 85 including 10 safety center and with different-caliber rifle (NEWS) children and 8 citizen women from the families of the gunmen loyal to the regime and NDF executed by the organization in al-Bogeleyyah Uzbekistan’s athlete: area in Deir Ezzor. Also 346 is the number of fighters of the rebel and Rhythmic gymnastics Islamic factions, Fath al-Sham Front (al-Qaeda organization in the gives incredible emotions Levant) and YPG who were exe- The Syrian Observatory for Hu- militiamen loyal to them and ISIS Rhythmic gymnastics gives incred- noted that the FIG World Cup in cuted by the organization of the man Rights and during the 34rd militants who were executed by “Islamic State” after capturing ible emotions, Uzbekistan’s ath- Baku is being held at a high level month of declaring the “Caliphate ISIS since the declaration of its lete Anastasiya Serdyukova, who and judges are fair. The first day of them in the clashes which are tak- State” by the “Islamic State” orga- Caliphate in 29/6/2014 until the ing place between the organization is taking part in the FIG Rhyth- the FIG Rhythmic Gymnastics nization, documented the execu- morning of 29/4/2016. Where 2577 mic Gymnastics World Cup, told World Cup kicked off in Baku Apr. and the mentioned factions or of tion of 64 persons in ISIS controlled civilian citizens were executed, in- who were arrested at checkpoints reporters in Baku. “I like to per- 28. Ninety-four gymnasts from 21 areas in Syria, the executions were cluding 87 children and 134 wom- form,” she noted adding that it’s countries are participating in the for the organization in its con- carried out in the provinces of Al- en, they were executed by shoot- trolled areas. Also the “Islamic an incredible feeling. The athlete World Cup. The competitions are Raqqah, Deir Ezzor, Damascus, ing, beheading, stoning, throwing said that she likes very much Baku, being held at the National Gym- State” organization executed 510 The Islamic Republic and the Eu- to draw up a five-year plan for bi- Al-Hasakah and Homs in addition off high place or burning in the of its own members, some of them ropean Union will start the con- lateral cooperation and noted that where very good conditions were nastics Arena. to the Syrian Desert during the provinces of Damascus, Rif Di- created for gymnasts. Serdyukova (Trend) on charges of “Ghuluww (Trans- struction of an advanced nuclear the union would "most likely" period between the 29th of March mashq, Deir Ezzor, al- Raqqa, al- lator: it is an act of extremism and safety center in Iran in the near supply the €20 million credit re- 2017 and the 29th of April 2017. Hasakah, Aleppo, Homs and is against Sharia in Islam where the future, Iran’s nuclear chief says. quired for the project. He ex- Where Syrian Observatory for Hama, including 3 massacres car- person ascribe a divine character- Head of the Atomic Energy Orga- pressed hope that Iran and the EU Human Rights documented the ried out by the organization in the istics to Islamic figures or another nization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar would bolster their nuclear coop- Kazakhstan: Paradise execution of 51 Syrian citizens, provinces of Deir Ezzor, Aleppo person), spying for foreign coun- Salehi made the remarks in a joint eration, saying the two sides plan and 6 members at least of the re- and Hama, and among the casual- tries, cooperating with the Crusad- press conference on Saturday with to sign two agreements in this re- gime forces and the militiamen loyal ties the activist in the Syrian Ob- er Alliance, attempting to escape, European Climate Action and En- gard. Iran and the European Com- for investment to them, and 2 fighters of the rebel servatory for Human Rights Jaw- escaping during the battel and at- ergy Commissioner Miguel Arias mission on April 18 signed the first- KAZAKHSTAN is the leader in day as of two years ago. It pre- and Islamic factions. The execu- dat al-Rabbah aka “Abu Islam”. tempting to defect “, and most of Canete, who is in Tehran to take ever project for nuclear safety co- investment attractiveness in Cen- sents unique opportunities and tions were carried out according to Also the organization executed them were executed after being ar- part in the first-ever Iran-EU Busi- operation within the framework of tral Asia. Its profile is improving avenues to the foreign companies these charges: “Adultery, working more than 930 Arab Sunni citizens rested by the organization when ness Forum on Sustainable Ener- a landmark nuclear agreement, every passing day due to explora- and other investors interested in for the infidels Kurdish Forces, from the clan of al-Sh’aytat in the they were trying to return to their gy. Salehi added that the nuclear known as the Joint Comprehen- tion of its rich natural resources numerous fields ranging from sub- working for the International Coa- eastern countryside of Deir Ezzor, countries. The Organization also safety center would extend servic- sive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and adoption of liberal policies to soil use to agro-industrial complex. lition, smuggling people to the out- and 223 Kurdish civilian citizen executed 1259 officers and mem- es to regional countries as well. He signed between the Islamic Repub- attract investment. Kazakhstan is Today Kazakhstan has be- side of the borders of the Islamic killed by the organization by open- bers from the regime forces and added that he has now held three lic and the P5+1 group of coun- a leading country in Central Asia come a model for other countries State, members of the Nusayri re- ing fire on them and by white arm militiamen loyal to them, after cap- rounds of talks with the EU com- tries in 2015. The €2.5 million economically, generating 60% of in the region. The regional coun- gime and fighter of the infidel fac- in the city of Ayn al-Arab (Kobani) turing them in the clashes or ar- missioner over the past 1.5 years, project is aimed at improving the the region’s GDP, mainly through tries can learn from its experience tions” Where it rose to 4694, the and the village of Barkh Botan in resting them at ISIS checkpoints adding that "very good achieve- capabilities of the Iranian Nuclear its oil/gas industry and other vast of creating a conducive environ- number of civilians, fighters, mem- the southern countryside of the in ISIS controlled areas. ments" have since been made and Regulatory Authority (INRA) by mineral resources. Commercial- ment for foreign investors. There bers of the regime forces and the city, and 46 civilian citizen execut- (Syriahr) a large portion of the agreements preparing feasibility study for the scale production at Kazakhstan’s is no doubt that Kazakhstan met have been implemented. The Nuclear Safety Center under the giant Kashagan field in the Caspi- all the requirements to attract the AEOI chief noted that the more JCPOA. It is the first part of a €5 an Sea has started at a daily rate of foreign investment such as avail- the interaction between the two million action plan approved by 90,000 barrels. Kashagan, the big- ability of substantial natural re- Turkey fires 3,900 in second sides, the sooner the agreements the European Union in 2016 un- gest oil discovery in Kazakhstan sources (oil, uranium, metals), would be implemented. der the Instrument for Nuclear in about four decades, holds an adoption of economic and trade lib- Salehi said Iran and the EU also Safety Cooperation. estimated 38 billion barrels of eralization policy, legislation and plan to set up a roadmap based on A second project for the stress test crude and a trillion cubic meters of an effective control system. Since post-referendum purge Euratom - a complementary re- at the Bushehr nuclear power plant natural gas. Of the oil reserves, 10 its inception after the collapse of search program for nuclear research in Iran is scheduled to be signed in billion barrels are recoverable. It the erstwhile Soviet Union, Kaza- Turkey on Saturday expelled more attempt last July in which he has cation in which official decrees are and training. According to this the coming weeks. Iran and the five makes this country the largest oil khstan immediately took a sharp than 3,900 people from the civil denied all involvement. In all, some announced. Advertising for match- roadmap, Iran can use Euratom fa- permanent members of the United producer in Central Asia and ranks start to the formation of a market service and military as threats to 120,000 people have been sus- making services was also banned. cilities in nuclear research and de- Nations Security Council - the 18th in the world, with annual pro- economy. national security, in the second pended or sacked from their jobs Hours earlier Turkey blocked on- velopment, he said. Euratom aims United States, France, Britain, duction of 1.72 million barrels per (Pakobserver) major purge since President Tayy- and more than 40,000 arrested in line encyclopedia Wikipedia, with to pursue nuclear research and Russia and China plus Germany - ip Erdogan was granted sweeping the aftermath of the failed putsch, the telecommunications watchdog training activities with an empha- signed the JCPOA on July 14, 2015 new powers. Erdogan won those which killed 240 people, mostly citing a law allowing it to ban ac- sis on continuously improving and started implementing it on Jan- concessions in a referendum in civilians. The mass detentions were cess to websites deemed obscene nuclear safety, security and radia- uary 16, 2016. Under the JCPOA, mid-April, which rights groups and initially supported by many or a threat to national security. A tion protection, notably to contrib- Iran undertook to put limitations some Western allies believe has Turks, who supported Erdogan in government official told Reuters ute to the long-term decarbonisa- on its nuclear program in exchange brought the country, a NATO- blaming Gulen. But criticism has the dating show ban would only tion of the energy system in a safe, for the removal of nuclear-related member and European Union can- mounted as the arrests widened, apply to satellite channels that "do efficient and secure way. Salehi sanctions imposed against Tehran. didate, closer to one-man rule. The with relatives of many of those advertising for sexual products", further said Iran and the EU plan (BBC) expulsions - carried out in conjunc- detained or sacked denying their and not to prime time television. tion with media curbs - affected involvement in the coup and call- Europe has long harbored concerns informed people in the area of prison guards, clerks, academics, ing them victims of a purge. Since about Erdogan's commitment to At least 24 people including employees of the religious affairs the attempted putsch, Ankara has Western-style democracy, given his nine children were feared dead the risk of a landslide – due to directorate and 1,200 members of also faced widespread western crit- roots in political Islam, but he has after a devastating landslide heavy rains – just a few days the armed forces including nearly icism of its record on freedom of remained defiant in the face of the swept through a village in earlier, and had advised them 600 officers. They were fired for speech, and authorities on Satur- criticism. "Our concern is not what southern Kyrgyzstan early on to leave, but many decided to suspected links to "terrorist orga- day banned some television dating George, Hans or Helga say," he told Saturday, officials said. stay. nizations and structures present- programs, which Deputy Prime flag-waving supporters in a speech Scores of emergency workers Deadly landslides regular- ing a threat to national security", Minister Numan Kurtulmus said this month. "Our concern is what have been deployed to the site ly hit this central Asian coun- according to a decree in the Offi- last month were at variance with Hatice, Ayse, Fatma, Ahmet, Me- to excavate the village. try, where close to 95 percent cial Gazette. On Wednesday more Turkey's faith and culture. "In ra- hmet, Huseyin, Hasan say, what The landslide happened early of the land is covered by moun- than 9,000 police were suspended dio and television broadcasting ser- God says." Turkey last year jailed on Saturday, when a torrent of tains. and another 1,000 detained for al- vices, shows where people are in- 81 journalists, more than any oth- mud buried several houses. Sunday has been declared leged links to the network of the troduced and/or brought together er country, according to the New Local authorities said they had a national day of morning. U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, to find friends ... cannot be made," York-based Committee to Protect (Trend) whom Ankara blames for a coup said the Gazette, the state publi- Journalists. MONDAY. MAY 01, 2016 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Japan’s premier will ‘continue to trust British economy after Brexit’ Japan's prime minister has said he will "continue to trust" the UK's economy after Brexit has taken place, as he states that maintain- South Korea's finance minister said ing an open Europe is a matter of on Sunday the government was concern to the world. Shinzo Abe already working on downsizing its also said Kim Jong Un's continued trade surplus with the United launches were a "clear challenge States, a reference to U.S. Presi- against the international commu- dent Donald Trump's comments nity", hours after new ballistic Thursday that Washington will missile tests were carried out by renegotiate or scrap the free trade North Korea. Mr Abe made the pact the two countries have. statements at central London's Finance Minister Yoo Il-ho Dorchester Hotel following a meet- added in televised comments he did ing with Theresa May at Chequers not expect the free trade agreement on Friday. After talks at her coun- will be terminated. It has been in try retreat, Mrs May hailed Japan effect since 2012. as "our closest Asian security part- "If one party requests for the ner" and an important economic trade deal to be terminated, it can ally, as she noted that 1,000 Japa- be ended six months following the nese companies including Honda, request. But we don't feel that will Hitachi and Mitsubishi employ happen yet," said Yoo. 14,000 people in Britain. "We feel that there will be talks Pressed on whether he was in any form to renegotiate the terms worried about the Government's With regards to strengthening and we are preparing for them." stance of a hard Brexit, he said Japan and UK trade relations fol- Yoo reiterated his previous through a translator: "With regard lowing the split, he added: "I con- comments that Seoul has not yet to the Brexit negotiations, main- tinue to trust the UK's economy received formal requests for talks taining an open Europe is a matter after its separation from the EU. to renegotiate the free trade deal of concern to the world. "As I share the view with from Washington yet. Trump's "Japan, along with the UK and Prime Minister May yesterday, in threat to terminate the trade pact the EU, will continue to play the order to maintain and strengthen in a Reuters interview sent South role of the standard bearers of free Japan's economic relations with Korea's currency KRW= and trade," he said. the UK after its separation from shares .KS11 down on Friday. Mr Abe said it is his expecta- the EU, we would like to continue (Reuters) tion that stakeholders and inves- with the expectation of opinions tors from outside the EU will be with the UK concerning how Ja- able to have "clear future pros- pan and UK economic relations Banks continue to raise Strong currency does pects" following Brexit. should be." (AOL) not always represent Dissatisfied with size of household lending rates a stronger economy Pakistan’s economy, Dar household loan’s average interest rates at local lenders came to 3.21 authorises World percent and a mortgage loan’s av- erage was at 3.43 percent as of March. The average mortgage rate Bank study in March was the highest in 25 months, the data showed. In March, the difference between the loan and deposit interest rates was at 1.99 percent, the highest in more than four years since January 2013, excluding January this year when it was at 2 percent, accord- ing to the BOK. Many banks in South Korea reported a surge in net profits in the first quarter. Rev- enues from interest at the four larg- est local banks -- Shinhan Bank, Kookmin Bank, KEB Hana Bank and Woori Bank -- rose on-year in the first quarter. Commercial lenders in South Ko- rates at between 3-4 percent made The rise in household lending Pakistan has authorised the World for the size of the Pakistani econ- rea have raised interest rates for up 63.5 percent of new loans in rates, as well as the widening gap Bank to undertake a study to come omy, currently stated to be hover- household lending, weighing on March. The proportion of house- between the loan and deposit in- out of what an economist called ing around the $280-billion mark. household debt, the central bank’s hold loans offered at interest rates terest rates, have put continued the age of ‘statistical darkness’, Dar said after noticing this under- data showed Sunday. Fresh house- of above 5 percent rose to 4.9 per- pressure on household debt here after the country’s finance minis- counting of economic output, he hold loans with rates lower than 3 cent in March from 2.9 percent in and dampened household con- ter also started believing that the decided to stick to 7% GDP percent, extended by local banks, August. sumption, the BOK noted earlier The scaling rupee and the buoyant exports and stressed that India Inc nation’s gross income is understat- growth rate target for 2019. What took up 26 percent of total house- The local banking industry’s in a report released April 13. “The market is not really projecting the should be more vocal on exchange ed by as much as 25%. “I have is wrong with Pakistan’s econo- hold loans in March, hitting a 25- move to raise interest rates took rise in loan interest rates in the wake true state of Indian economy be- rate issues, reported a business asked the World Bank to trigger a my? He said that the input output month low, according to data from shape months before the US Fed- of the Fed rate hikes is posing a lieves the market analysts. The news portal. study and come out with the actu- coefficient of various industries has the Bank of Korea. The propor- eral Reserve raised its key rate by heavier challenge on household Chief economic adviser Arvind In the beginning of this month, al size of Pakistan’s Gross Domes- not been worked out for the last tion of new loans with interest rates 0.25 percent in December 2016. A debtor’s ability to pay back,” the Subramanian competitive foreign Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce & tic Product (GDP), which I believe two decades. Dar said that the below 3 percent plummeted by 50 Fed rate hike took place in March BOK said. Outstanding household exchange rates are crucial for Industry Minister had backed a is currently understated by 20% World Bank would require at least percentage points to reach 25.8 again, by another 0.25 percent. credit -- comprising household growth and called for a rupee ex- stronger rupee and informed export to 25%”, said Finance Minister one year to complete the study. percent in just seven months, from Meanwhile, the BOK’s benchmark loans and credit card spending -- change rate that would further pro- competitiveness is not just linked Ishaq Dar on Saturday while ad- He assigned the task to the World 76 percent in August 2016, accord- rate has remained steady at 1.25 reached 1,344.3 trillion won ($1.2 mote exports. to currency but better logistics & dressing a gathering of chartered Bank last week during his visit to ing to the data. More lenders be- percent for 10 months to date. trillion) at the end of 2016, up 11.7 He further added that strong infrastructures which are focus ar- accountants from South Asian na- Washington. He is the second per- gan to offer household loans with Another set of data from the BOK percent from the previous year. currency exchange rates over the eas of government. tions. His statements came in the son and the first in the government higher rates instead. Loans with on Wednesday showed that a new (Koreaherald) past 2 years are hugely affected (Indiainfoline) backdrop of a widely used figure who has now started believing that the country’s national output could be far more than what it is at the moment. The idea was first floated by Shahid Javed Burki, Indonesian business delegation former vice-president of the World Bank, during a meeting with Dar that took place two months ago. in Manila to enhance bilateral Pakistani policymakers are taking decisions in statistical darkness and the World Bank can help to end this, wrote Shahid Javed Burki in economic ties an article published in The Express Turkey’s central bank expects in- determination to keep policy tight, it has pared losses since January, Tribune after his meeting with Dar. flation to remain volatile for the Cetinkaya said. “In this period, the lira is still trading almost a fifth An Indonesian business delegation He had written that China was also rest of the year, and won’t rush we will continue to focus on the lower against the dollar since last composed of small and medium making a similar mistake and was into cutting interest rates if price main trend,” Cetinkaya said. “We year’s failed military coup, mak- enterprises (SMEs) and big-busi- underestimating its gross income increases slow, governor Murat will not show a premature reac- ing it the worst-performing emerg- ness chiefs is in Manila to enhance by as much as 25%. He believed Cetinkaya said. The bank now ex- tion to downward fluctuations.” ing market currency in a basket of ties and further trade and econom- that Pakistan was under-counting pects the inflation rate to be 8.5% The bank also raised its infla- 24 tracked by Bloomberg. Its de- ic exchanges with the Philippines. its GDP by the same order of mag- at the end 2017, half a percentage tion forecast for the end of 2018 preciation is the key reason for the The 40-member delegation, led by nitude. A 25% upward adjustment point higher than it forecast three to 6.4% from 6%. Its latest pro- revised year-end inflation forecast, the chairman of the Indonesian in the estimate of GDP will bring months ago, Cetinkaya told report- jections show that it will only meet along with higher use of produc- Chamber of Commerce and In- 2017 Pakistani income from $280 ers in Istanbul on Friday. Seasonal its goal of 5% in 2019, nine years tion capacity in Turkey, the cen- dusty (Kadin), Rosan Roeslani, is billion to $350 billion, improving factors affecting food prices will after the bank last met its official tral bank said in the report. in Manila from Wednesday to Sun- its world ranking from 43rd to drive fluctuations in the rate, the target. Annual consumer inflation The government has increased day to conduct a series of busi- 31st. It is then likely to cross bank said in its quarterly inflation rose to 11.3% in March, the high- spending on public projects and ness-to-business meetings with South Africa, Singapore, Malay- report. The comments were meant est level since 2008, driven by helped banks to extend commer- their Philippine counterparts, ac- sia and Egypt, according to Burki. to reassure investors that the food and clothing prices and the cial loans as it tries to boost growth. cording to information from the According to Burki, some of the bank’s tightening cycle, which be- weaker lira. The latter policy may add as much Philippine Department of Trade methods that Pakistan was using gan in January when the lira fell to “The forecast revisions were as 5 percentage points to credit and Industry (DTI). The business and the surveys that collected re- a record low against the dollar, totally warranted, but still too growth this year, Cetinkaya said. visit was also one of the side events quired data were seriously outdat- won’t be rolled back at the first optimistic,” said Cristian Maggio, The stimulus measures will during the state visit to the Philip- ed. Pakistan was also not correct- sign of easing inflation. Policy head of emerging markets research have no long-term impact on Tur- pines of Indonesian President Joko ly estimating the size of its mod- makers unexpectedly raised a key at TD Securities, which has a year- key’s monetary policy objectives, Widodo on April 28, the Philip- ern services – in particular infor- interest rate on Wednesday, a end forecast of 9.8% for 2017 and the governor said, describing the pine embassy in Jakarta said in a ing on Doing Business in the Philippines and presented trade and invest- mation, communications, enter- move that demonstrates the bank’s 8% twelve months later. Though support as “temporary.” (AP) press statement. To welcome the ment opportunities in the country. One of the highlights of the presen- tainment, travel and advanced business delegation, a Business tation is the potential public private partnership projects that can spur commerce. All these sectors con- Networking Forum was held on massive development in the country. A special focus on Mindanao was tribute much more to the econo- April 26 at the Indonesian Embas- also presented, in particular initiatives on enhancing connectivity in the my than suggested by official num- sy to facilitate networking and region. The Indonesian SME delegation attended the ASEAN Creative bers, he wrote. Meanwhile, Dar on forge a closer and more vibrant Cities Forum and Exhibition, an event aimed at promoting a creative and Saturday finally announced that trade and economic relations be- innovative ASEAN on Thursday. Distinguished speakers from Indone- this fiscal year’s tax target of tween the Philippines and Indo- sia such as Mayor Achmad Alf Arslan Djunaid of Pekalongan participat- Rs3.621 trillion has been revised nesia. Indonesian Ambassador to ed in a panel discussion on Crafts and Folk Arts. downwards. “We are aiming for the Philippines Johny Lumintang Pekalongan or the "Batik City" of Indonesia is one of the members over Rs3.5 trillion tax collections noted in his welcome remarks the of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, an organization that pro- for fiscal year 2016-17,” said Dar. improving trade relations between motes cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity The Federal Board of Revenue the Philippines and Indonesia with as a strategic sector for urban development. The delegation met with top (FBR) is now aiming to collect trade transactions amounting to business executives at the sidelines of the Prosperity for All Summit Rs3.521 trillion – a cut of Rs100 US$ 3.56 billion in 2015. He also organized by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, on Friday. At billion. The government had to reported that Indonesia is now the least eight memorandums of understanding were signed by the Indone- lower the target after it faced a 9th trading partner of the Philip- sian conglomerates with their counterparts. shortfall of Rs168 billion during pines with a percentage share of The agreements would pave the way for the expansion of Indone- the first nine months (July- 3.7% in the total trade of the Phil- sian businesses in the Philippines, investments in water delivery, sewer- March) of the current year. ippines with the world. During the age and sanitation services, cooperation agreements in property devel- (Tribune) forum, the DTI conducted a brief- MONDAY . MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Sharing screen space with Fawad in Maula Jatt is going to be crazy: Mahira Khan Mahira might be the first Pakistani star to have debuted opposite King Khan himself and entered the much coveted 100 crore club, but she will always be a Karachiite at heart, the Humsafar star professed in a live Twitter session on Friday. Talking at length about her favourites and upcoming projects, the Raees ac- Sajid Khan on Housefull turning tor revealed two very interesting facts the #AskMahira Q & A ses- sion. She confirmed that we will seven:?The film was no less get to see the most loved on-screen couple on big-screen pretty soon! Mahira is all set to star in Bilal than a paid holiday Lashari’s Maula Jatt and we can hardly contain our excitement! Talking about it, the Bol star professed: It’s all about taking the L’oreal Paris brand ambassadors risk! Mahira also answered some Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sonam other queries of her fans, also hint- Kapoor, Deepika Padukone will be ing at a possible Hollywood de- joining their international counter- but! When a fan talked about chal- parts Julianne Moore, Eva Longo- lenges and if a possible Hollywood ria at the 70th Festival De Cannes, debut was on the cards, the Ho taking place in May. L’Oréal Paris Mann Jahaan tweeted, “Why not!” celebrates 20 years of partnering She also clarified that much to with the prestigious Film Festival the disappointment of the fans, as it’s Official Makeup brand and there will be no sequel to Humsa- for Cannes 2017, the brand’s icon- far. She also hinted what to expect ic ambassadors and many others from her role in Shoaib Mansoor will be seen joining in the festivi- directorial, Verna. ties on the French Riviera in May Talking about her favourites, this year. They will showcase the the Bin Roye star quipped: Her transformational power of make- advice for the young generation up and a kaleidoscope of styles. was totally apt! Also this will be Deepika’s (Tribune) first year representing L’Oréal Par- is as an ambassador at Cannes. “We’re happy to announce that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepi- ka Padukone and Sonam Kapoor will be representing L’Oréal Paris and India at the Cannes Film Fes- tival this year. This year is very special to us as L’Oréal Paris cele- Filmmaker Sajid Khan’s film Riteish are concerned, Sajid shared on Twitter, which was fairly new brates two decades of being the Housefull, the first instalment of a good rapport with them since at that time.” Filmmaker Sajid official makeup partner for the franchise, was a laugh riot not Heyy Baby (2007) days. “Since Khan says the film was no less Cannes. “This year the brand is only on-screen, but off the sets too. we had already worked together, than a travelogue for the actors as not only introducing an innovative The film starring actors Akshay so I wasn’t nervous. In fact, I feel they shot in London and Italy. The and phenomenal collection of Kumar, Deepika Padukone, Arjun lost if it’s not ensemble star cast,” 46-year-old filmmaker says that products but plans to bring Cannes Rampal, Riteish Deshmukh, Lara says Sajid, as he goes on to narrate the best part of the film was the closer to our consumers through Dutta, Jiah Khan and Boman Ira- an incident, “I remember Riteish exotic locations, where it was shot. the hottest new makeup and fash- ni, completes seven years today. and I?would always mimic Akshay “The film was like a travelogue for ion trends, and also giving them a It might not have garnered great and he’d be like ‘meri nakal kyu us. It was a paid holiday. We trav- unique experience of #Lifeat- It’s reviews then, but did well at the kar rahe ho!’. elled from London to Italy and there Cannes,” Raagjeet Garg, General box-office. “I?was very sure that I remember, once we were shoot- was a sudden change of weather. Manager, L’Oréal Paris said in a Housefull will do well, though I ing in a small house in London sub- We just didn’t want to come back statement. embarrassing was surprised to see that it did this urbs. We had no make-up rooms home and even asked Sajid Nadi- The Cannes Film Festival is well. People say that my film or vans and we just used one room adwala [producer] to let us stay set to commence on May 17 and to be called Humshakals (2014) got bad re- of the house to sit. Deepika, Lara, for a few more days. He, of course, will conclude on May 28. views, but so did Housefull. These Akshay and Riteish told me that was like ‘are you mad! This has (Tribune) movies are fun cinema, where log- they wanted to discuss something, cost me a lot’,” says Sajid. hot: Suniel ic takes a back seat,” says Sajid. so when they called me, they made Housefull was also the last film Filmmaker Sajid Khan and Riteish me sit on a stool. that [late] actor Jiah Khan acted Shetty Deshmukh would often imitate Now this stool was broken and I in, before she allegedly committed Suniel Shetty who was on a self- actor Akshay Kumar on the sets fell off, and they all immediately suicide in 2013. imposed sabbatical for three years, of the film. As far as Akshay and clicked me and posted the pictures (Hindustan Times) is finally back on screen. The ac- tor is all set to host a reality show and will be making a comeback to television with his show, India’s I have learnt to handle criticism Asli Champion, after a decade. But, Suneil says that the decision of getting back to the screen wasn’t gracefully: Katrina Kaif an easy one. “I have been getting both film and television offers but Katrina Kaif says getting criticised I was just not interested. My fa- is disheartening, but she has learnt ther was unwell for over two years to not “overanalyse things” and move on. “I, being an actress, faced and it was around the same time a lot of criticism. I learnt to handle that I lost the will to go to work. them gracefully. It is disheartening, The routine and monotony had of course, especially if there is a se- gotten to me and I was unhappy ries of criticism on something which with everything around me. Of you put your heart to. But I do not course, now when I look back, it overanalyse things, I move on,” said all worked out perfectly as I got to Katrina. The actor, who made her spend a lot of time with my father. debut on Instagram on Thursday, But after my father died (March), feels social media is an open plat- I decided that it was time for me to form where people should be pre- get back to work. I couldn’t take a pare to face all kinds of opinion -- sabbatical forever. And when this positive or negative. “Social media show was offered to me, I was is a platform where people express ready to face the camera since the their thoughts openly. So, there will show was all about fitness and be a variety of opinion, whether it passion,” says the actor. While Su- is positive or negative. So people niel was on a break, he didn’t fall like us, who are always there in front off the fitness wagon and main- of the camera, and people who are tained a strict diet and fitness into creative profession, have to face schedule. And that is probably the it. I know that art cannot be judged reason the actor is being called on a set format,” said Katrina, whose last few releases including Baar Baar ‘sexy and hot’ on social media. Dekho and Fitoor failed to elicit the “The other day my daughter, expected response. Talking about Athiya’s friends were showing her social media trolls, the Bang Bang some pictures and addressing me star said, “Different people can have as hot. Of course, it is embarrass- different perspective to that, and ing but when Athiya came home, everybody is welcome to their own she was like. (Santa Banta) opinion. However, I think trolls and ranting happens more on Twitter. I am not there.” Is that the reason she avoids Is Salman Khan's ‘Tubelight’ in for a power outage in Pakistan? Twitter? “No not really, that is not the reason why I am not there. I The Pakistan Film Distributors Association and the Pakistan Film Pro- It is pertinent to mention here box office the whole year round. It’s only fair that Eid – might join Twitter. But these things ducers Association, along with various local film-makers, are actively that two Pakistani films have al- being a Muslim festival – should not be. Besides, as Paki- are part of social media,” she said. trying to stall the release of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s next ready been announced for Eidul stanis, we must support the release of local content first,” She battled Hindi diction woes Eid offering Tubelight, citing the Pakistani films scheduled to release at Fitr, namely Yalghaar and Shor Sohail Khan, producer of Shor Sharaba, told The Express and the ‘outsider’ tag to win over the same time as their motive. The officials want to protect the interests Sharaba. There is also a chance of Tribune. “Shor Sharaba is supposed to release on Eidul Fitr Bollywood audiences and has of the local projects which are likely to lose out if Tubelight takes over. more films being added to the Eid and if the government doesn’t stall Tubelight, I will not worked with top-notch stars and release my film as a protest.” According to sources, the first filmmakers. According to the protesters, local legislation forbids the release of list. Unfortunately, their box of- Having started with a box office dud any Indian film on a Muslim holiday, as was decided by the Federal fice revenue will get severely af- move will be to try and prevent Tubelight from being given a NOC and for this, the associations are planning to write like Boom, Katrina went on to cre- Ministry of Information back in 2010. In fact, they are even planning to fected by the Salman and Kabir ate a success story with films like take the matter to court, should they need to. As per sources, the Min- Khan collaboration, which has an official letter to the Prime Minister as well. Also, they recently held a meeting in Lahore wherein it was decided Namastey London, Apne, Partner, istry had given directives to stop the release of Tubelight and Vidya previously delivered massively Welcome, Race, Singh Is Kinng, Balan’s Begum Jaan well in advance. At the same time, rumour has it successful films like Ek Tha Tiger that the entire Pakistani film industry – even its technicians and other less prominent members – will join the planned Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Ek that Tubelight’s producers might just delay its release as it seems un- and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Tha Tiger. likely that the film will be completed before Eid. “Indian films dominate our protest to stop Tubelight from being released on Eid. (Hindustan Times) MONDAY. MAY 01, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Joe Root gets one over brother Billy as Yorkshire thrash Nottinghamshire Joe Root won 'The Battle of the Root brothers' as Yorkshire Vikings began their Royal London One- Day Cup campaign with a seven- wicket victory over the Notting- hamshire Outlaws at Trent Bridge. Root finished with an unbeaten 75 to his name, helping his side to an emphatic victory with 17.2 overs to spare in a match that pitched him against his brother, Billy, for A strike from substitute Juan eral openings themselves which the the first time in county cricket. Set Iturbe saw Torino secure a 1-1 draw likes of Adem Ljajic, Iago Falque 186 for victory, the Vikings against Sampdoria at the Stadio and Lucas Boye failed to make the romped to the finishing line with Olimpico Grande Torino. most of. Joe Root hitting the winning runs The visitors went ahead in the And it looked as if they would as he lifted his brother's off-spin 12th minute when Karol Linetty be left rue their profligacy until for a mighty six. Adam Lyth made ran at the home defence and laid Iturbe fired home a fine leveller in 35 and Jonny Bairstow scored 19 the ball to Patrik Schick, who the 78th minute, pouncing when at the start of the chase but a stand whipped it past Joe Hart from just Vasco Regini made a mess of an of 127 between Root and Peter outside the box in superb fashion attempted clearance. Handscomb, who made 46, nulli- for his fourth goal in five matches. Torino and Sampdoria, who fied any hopes of an Outlaws' fight- Hart then made an excellent lost the services of Schick to inju- back. Earlier, Notts had been stop with his legs 10 minutes later ry early in the second half, remain bowled out for just 185 in 40.5 to prevent Bruno Fernandes from ninth and 10th respectively. Joshua vs Klitschko: Anthony overs, having been asked to bat making it 2-0. Torino created sev- (Sky Sport) first. Brendan Taylor top-scored for the home side, making 60 from 59 deliveries, with an array of im- Joshua praises Wladimir Klitschko provised and unorthodox shots. Snooker: John Higgins Riki Wessels scored 41 and Micha- el Lumb made 35 but there was little else of note against a York- remains on course for after stunning Wembley win shire attack that shared the wick- ets around. Tim Bresnan claimed Anthony Joshua felt character was the best figures, with 3-22, but all tilt at fifth Crucible the key to his sensational stop- beat Klitschko. I came back and six bowlers took wickets and there page win over Wladimir Klitschko fought my heart out." Joshua also was also a run out on the card, with - and warned the rest of the heavy- praised his beaten opponent, laud- James Pattinson setting off for a crown weight division that he can still get ing Klitschko - who lost inside the non-existent run after hitting the even better. The 2012 Olympic distance for the first time since he ball straight to Azeem Rafiq at ex- champion maintained his perfect was stopped by Lamon Brewster tra cover. Notts had managed to professional record with a 19th in April 2004 - as a role model for negotiate the first 10 overs with- successive win inside the distance, the sport. "As boxing states, you out too much trouble but then both although he had to climb off the leave your ego at the door and re- Alex Hales and Lumb fell in quick canvas to triumph in front of a spect your opponent, so a mas- record 90,000 crowd. Having sive shout-out to Wladimir Klitsch- dropped his opponent in the ko for taking part," the English- fourth round, the tables were man added during his post-fight turned in the sixth when Joshua interview. "I'm not going to say too was put down for the first time in much in case he wants to come back his career. However, the 27-year- and fight me again, but in terms of old weathered the storm before fin- the boxing Hall of Fame and the ishing an exhilarating contest in the boxing arena, he's a role model in penultimate round, with a battered and out of the ring. "I've got noth- and bruised Klitschko stopped on ing but love and respect for any- one who steps inside the ring. "I'm John Higgins says winning a fifth this event he was my pick to win his feet. "This is boxing - I'm only enal boxer but this sport is about a boxing classic and the best man going to improve," Joshua - who character. When you go to the will win. There's no complications a little bit emotional now because world title would be his greatest it." There was a moment of con- I know I've got doubters who think not only retained his IBF title but trenches, that's when you find out with boxing - anyone can do this. snooker feat as he closes in on an- troversy in the ninth frame of their I can't do this and I can't do that. also won the WBA 'super' belt too who you really are. "In this small "I came out and I won - that's how other Crucible final. The Scot went clash when Hawkins twice fouled But I dig deep." - told Sky Sports Box Office. little ring there's nowhere to hide. far I had to dig. I didn't go into a from 5-3 ahead of Barry Hawkins when attempting a precise safety (BBC News) to build a 10-6 overnight lead in escape before sinking a tough red "Sometimes you can be a phenom- As I said from the get-go, it will be 12-round slug-fest and struggle to their best-of-33-frame semi-final at with his next shot. Higgins looked the Betfred World Championship. aggrieved, possibly thinking the He has landed world titles in 1998, white had not been replaced in the succession. Hales hit Rafiq's first 2007, 2009 and 2011 but feared correct position. Referee Paul Col- Britain’s Lizzie Deignan Jonas Blixt, Cameron delivery straight back at him for a his days as a contender for the big- lier defended himself, saying he had low caught and bowled and Lumb gest prizes in snooker were over. used video technology correctly, pulled Matthew Fisher to mid- "I'm going to be turning 42 in and Hawkins later wrote on Twit- wins women’s Tour de Smith go four clear at wicket. Samit Patel pulled Adil May so it would be my best ever ter: "Don't worry Paul. I could al- Rashid to mid-on for 14 but the achievement," Higgins said of the ways see enough to pot that red!! early damage was partially correct- prospect of winning again. The tus- Thought it was too risky to take Yorkshire in Harrogate the Zurich Classic ed as Taylor and Wessels added 65 sle with Hawkins could still con- on until I was forced into it!!" for the fourth wicket. A loose de- tain plot twists, and Higgins came Higgins believes he will be fac- livery from David Willey ended to Sheffield with a hunch the 38- ing one of the greats if he and Mark their partnership as Wessels pulled year-old Kent cueman would Selby are the players going head a leg-side delivery straight into the scoop the title. This is a fourth to head for silverware glory on hands of deep-backward square- Crucible semi-final in five years for Sunday and Monday. Defending leg. From 150-4 Notts' plight wors- Hawkins. Higgins said: "In the last champion Selby was pegged back ened as they slid towards a crisis two or three years he's grown into to 12-12 on Friday night by Chi- at 158 for seven within the space being a great champion. He always na's Ding Junhui in a gripping last- of three overs. Billy Root received had the game but I don't think he four clash between the players who a great ovation from both sets of had the belief. "He's definitely got contested last year's final. supporters but only made six be- the belief now. I was saying before (Fox News) fore edging Bresnan behind, Chris Jonas Blixt and Cameron Smith Smith tapped in for a birdie to Read fell without scoring to Liam take a four-shot lead in to the final move them three clear. Blixt then Plunkett and Pattinson was dis- round of the new-look Zurich Clas- drained an 18-footer at the fourth missed. Taylor had reached his fif- Maria Sharapova’s sic of New Orleans. The pair con- to briefly go four ahead, with a run ty from 44 balls but only added 10 Lizzie Deignan delighted the local dropped to a little over a minute tinued their bogey-free week with of 11 pars halted with a close-range crowd as she stormed to victory with 30km to go, but it stabilised more before also becoming one of a four-under 68 in the foursomes gain from Smith at the 15th. Bresnan's victims and Broad made in the women's Tour de Yorkshire before Deignan made her move format at a blustery TPC Louisi- The Australian then holed a winning return ends in Harrogate on Saturday. 13.5km from home. a plucky 17 before being last out. ana, extending their overnight ad- 15-foot gain at the last to maintain With 18 full internationals on show, The former world champion at- King battled gamely but soon vantage. Kevin Kisner and Scott their blemish-free card, with the contest had been eagerly antic- in Stuttgart semis tacked out of the breakaway with dropped back as Deignan soloed Brown posted a round-of-the-day Kisner and Brown surging up the ipated but turned out to be as one- a little under 14 kilometres left of home to popular acclaim from the 67 to grab a share of second spot leaderboard with five birdies in a sided as the margin of victory the 122.5km stage from Tadcast- huge crowds gathered in Harrogate. alongside Charley Hoffman and seven-hole stretch along the back would suggest. Whilst Yorkshire er, and steadily increased her lead Giorgia Bronzini of the British- Nick Watney, with Jordan Spieth nine. can celebrate the start of their to finish 55 seconds clear of a chas- registered Wiggle High5 team fin- and Ryan Palmer a further stroke Reed and Cantlay failed to reg- white ball campaign with a victo- ing pack led home by Coryn Riv- ished third, with British national back. ister a birdie after the turn on their ry, Notts have now lost both of era of Team Sunweb. champion Hannah Barnes (Can- Patrick Reed and Patrick Cantlay way to a three-over 75, leaving their opening fixtures and have a Deignan, from Otley, had used the yon SRAM) fifth and King mak- headed in to the weekend one off them one of seven teams on 11 lot of ground to make up in order day's only categorised climb, the ing it home in 10th. the pace but lost ground with a under. to qualify for the knock-out phase. Cote de Lofthouse, to race clear of (Sky Sport) double-bogey at the second, where (Sky Sport) (BBC Sport) the main pack alongside Boels Dolmans team-mate Anna van der Breggen, and only Cylance's Dani King could stick with them until the decisive attack. Deignan said: "It's special and surreal. I still can't get my head around how many people came out to support us. "The chasing group was coming Altior clinched the jumps trainers' pretty close and my race director always had it covered. "When he won a bumper at Market Rasen we knew he was very good then. It's great championship for Nicky Hender- to have something like him, he's very special." De Boinville said: "He really is a star that shines very brightly. said, 'Wait for the sprint Lizzie, son with a superb victory in the you're coming back'. It's an incredible achievement for him and a great day all round. bet365 Celebration Chase at San- "He was still a novice coming into open company. He picked up so well. It was just effortless." But I thought, 'No, I'm not waiting down. (Sky Sport) for the sprint, I know the roads Altior clinched the jumps better than you and it's not com- trainers' championship for Nicky ing back'. Henderson with a superb victory Maria Sharapova suffered her first ing tournament at the French Open "I took advantage of one of the in the bet365 Celebration Chase at defeat since returning from a 15- without the need for a wildcard. little kickers and went for it." Sandown. month doping ban to Kristina However, the five-time Grand King had helped power the The crack novice treated last Mladenovic in the Porsche Grand Slam winner and two-time Roland early break into an advantage of month's Champion Chase hero Prix semi-finals. Sharapova ap- Garros champion must now wait around 90 seconds as they ap- Sizing Tiara with disdain as he peared to be heading to victory in until May 16 to see whether she proached the climb, but behind brushed aside the Irish raider, who Stuttgart after she raced through has been awarded a wildcard into Boels Dolmans were working hard had set the pace until the second- the first set in 35 minutes and the main draw for the Paris tour- to bring it back and they peeled 20 last fence. broke in the second for a 2-0 lead. nament. "I'm not angry, I'd have seconds off that lead before the Altior (30-100 favourite) However, French world No 19 loved to have used the opportuni- road ramped up. sprinted clear for Nico de Boin- Mladenovic produced a stunning ty when I was ahead in the second As soon as the gradients hit, ville to take his 100 per cent record comeback to secure a 3-6 7-5 6-4 set, so I had a bit of a let down Deignan and Van der Breggen went over fences to six with a ruthless victory in just over two hours, 38 which allowed her to get back in off the front of the peloton, and eight-length triumph. minutes and a place in Sunday's the match, gain confidence and play by the summit they were only 16 Henderson said: "He's top final. The Russian, who had not well," said Sharapova. "If at the seconds behind what was left of class. I think we've always known lost a set so far at the tournament, start of the week I'd said I'd be in the break with the race splitting that. was playing in her first tournament this position, I'd be pretty happy into pieces behind them. "He is very special and has since serving a ban for a positive with that. "The way I played, I As they powered clear, only done everything right throughout test for meldonium at the 2016 was really happy with that. You King could stay with them as Sun- the year. I couldn't believe the price Australian Open. Victory in the are never sure what level you are web and Wiggle High5 teamed up he was but people were probably semi-finals would have seen going to come onto the court with, behind to form a determined chase. more confident than I was. Sharapova return to the top 200 but I feel this is a great base with A lead that had been nearing "You know Special Tiara was and secure entry into the qualify- which I started here." two minutes for the front trio going to set serious fraction but he MONDAY . MAY 01. 2017-Sawar 11, 1396 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 267 Price: Afs.20

Bridegroom killed by Taliban while on route to his wedding

Kabul man who was on his Atta Mohammad Noor way to Mazar-e-Sharif for Ahis wedding was killed by Taliban early Saturday on the Mazar-e-Sharif highway, Baghlan officials confirmed. The groom, Omid, had been traveling to Mazar with his family when the incident occurred. Omid’s father was also killed in the attack. At the time of the incident, Afghan security forces had been fighting Taliban insur- gents in the area. Baghlan hospital officials said the two men had been killed in the Chashma-e-Shir area of Pul-e- Khumri in northern Baghlan after Geeta Mohan, Foreign Affairs tired. And subsequent to that we the Taliban targeted a civilian ve- Editor of NewsX in conversation also saw the United States pro- hicle. Omid and his father were with Former President of Afghan- vided money and planes (F16s) to killed, while at least four other istan, Hamid Karzai. Here’s an ex- Pakistan. When they say that in members of his family were cerpt from the interview. the US foreign relations commit- wounded. “All the victims are from NewsX: Many thanks for tee, yes, “you’re welcome, say it one family. Two men were killed joining us. The big question over and we have heard it before.” and four others, which include here is that this is the first time But then what? Business as women and children, were injured,” that we are hearing United States usual or will you change or do some- according to the official. of America now just talk about thing about it? “In today’s incident, five terrorism and state terror that em- NewsX: Do you believe wounded patients and one dead anates from Pakistan and creates Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister person were brought to the hospi- problem in Afghanistan, but also Narendra Modi can make that tal. Later one of the wounded died. this foreign relations committee change? MAZAR-I-SAHRIF: Balkh Gov- distributed more arms to the par- Among the wounded were two went ahead and spoke about how Hamid Karzai: Absolutely! ernor Atta Mohammad Noor has ty activists. children and a woman,” said Aye- it’s creating trouble in Kashmir as Both of them are courageous; both said some Hezb-i-Islami Afghani- “We have heard the group is nuddin Sayadi head of Pul-e- well. of them have desire for the best stan (HIA) members are yet to being equipped with new and ad- Khumre provincial hospital. Hamid Karzai: Well, I’m for this region. surrender their weapons but the vanced military equipment, some- “They were a family on their glad they have this debate on Af- I know PM Nawaz Sharif has government has started distribut- thing that would damage the peace way to Mazar-e-Sharif for their ing more arms to them. process,” argued the governor, also ghanistan on terrorism and all of this desire; I know many Former President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai son’s wedding but unfortunately that they have said is true but it is Pakistanis have this desire and In a message read out at an executive director of Jamiat-i-Isla- their vehicle was targeted by the not the first time they have said millions and millions of Indians much pressure on PM Modi to and I would recommend India event at the governor’s house here mi Afghanistan (JIA). enemies. We urge government to this. All of us have heard this be- have this desire. Both of them are overcome and go ahead and talk to would take a peaceful approach on Sunday, Noor said he support- Meanwhile, the gathering was take care of security on highways,” fore repeatedly. courageous leaders. Nawaz Sharif? towards Pakistan. As I have always ed the government’s peace agree- called symbolic by a number of said Nadira Nahrenwal, a civil so- If you remember they went as They should work this out and Hamid Karzai: We have to been saying that when they got to ment with the HIA -- the second people. Syed Mustafa, a former ciety activist and a member of the far as saying that the ‘Haqqani’ they should not be used by pow- talk under any circumstances. At Taliban, when they got to Paki- largest militant outfit in Afghani- mujahid, told Pajhwok Afghan dead groom’s family. group was the proven arm of the ers outside the region; you know the end of the day you have to talk stan, no matter what they do we stan behind the Taliban. News the jihad was being used as Meanwhile Baghlan provincial ISI. This was America’s command- for their own interest. and find a peaceful way forward. have to follow peace that’s good In his message to participants a tool. “No one asks about the chil- council criticized security forces er of the forces Admiral Mullen NewsX: With our soldiers War or talk of war is not the way for our people and for Pakistan and of the Mujahidin Victory Day dren of martyrs, Mujahidin who and said that Baghlan police must saying a few months before he re- dying on the border, is there too forward. Peace is the way forward for India. function, the governor said he be- lost their hands and legs are con- stop motorists from using the road lieved the the Hekmatyar-led HIA fined to homes.” when clashes are underway. The members would hand over their He added that some individu- head of Baghlan provincial council weapons to the government. als exploited their role in jihad to Asadullah Shahbaz said the deaths The peace deal would leave a grab cushy jobs and other privi- were due to Baghlan police’s neg- 85 insurgents positive impact on the security leges. Some political experts also ligence. Parwan raid: 1,000 kg situation in HIA strongholds, he said the benefits of jihad had not “The security forces must stop killed hoped, voicing his concern over been passed on to the common passengers from driving through reports that the government had people. (Pajhwok) areas where clashes are going on,” in raids Shahbaz said. Baghlan police also explosive recovered AT News Report confirmed the death of the two ci- vilians during a clash with the Tal- iban. “A vehicle was targeted by KABUL: At least 85 militants the Taliban and civilians were killed have been killed and 45 others were and wounded and two Taliban wounded in different crackdowns members were also killed by the carried out by the Afghan security security forces,” police Chief Akra- forces in the past 24 hours. muddin Sare said. The victims and In a press release issued here, family members have called for the Ministry of Defense, (MoD), justice. (ToloNews) said Afghan National Army (ANA) in collaboration with Afghan Na- tional Police (ANP) and National The governor of western Farah However, a number of provincial Directorate of Security (NDS) Province says nearly 80 percent council members in Farah rejected personal has conducted joint op- of legal cases resolve by the armed Taliban control five districts, but KABUL : As many as 1,000 kilo- erations against insurgents in dif- Taliban group in the province. named the province as operation grams of explosives have been re- ferent areas of Nangarhar, Kapisa, Farah governor, Muhammad center for Taliban group. Member covered during intelligence based Kandahar, Maidan Wardak, Aref Shah Jahan in interview with of Farah provincial council, Farid operation of General Command of Urozgan, Zabul, Ghazni, Ghor, Ariananews said, “At least 80 per- Bakhtawar said, “Farah province Police Special Unit in the Bagram Faryab, Takhar, Kunduz, Bada- cent of administrative and land is the center of Taliban’s activities district of central Parwan province, khshan, Baghalan and Helmand problems in Farah resolve by Tal- but the district are not under their the Ministry of Interior said in a provinces, in which 85 insurgents iban.” Shah Jahan described the control.” The Ministry of Defense statement on Sunday. With the dis- were killed and 45 others received Farah province vulnerable, saying also rejected this issue and said all covery of a huge amount of explo- injuries. the Taliban is controlling most of districts in Farah are under the con- the areas and people share their trol of Afghan security forces. sives the possibility of many ter- 19 Daesh, and nine Haqqani rorist attacks was averted, the cases with the group. According to locals, Taliban Network members were also According to the provincial are still in around Farah Province statement said. The timely discov- among 85 militants were killed in ery of the explosives has foiled council in Farah, the Taliban group and can attack anytime. The Bala the crackdowns, the statement carries out operations at night and Buluk district of Farah province terror attacks and saved the city added. Trump attacks from an expected tragedy. The suc- of the ten districts they have cap- has long been a Taliban stronghold According to the statement, tured five of them. Chairman of and in the past has been used as cessful conduct of operation like the joint operation of the security media at this demonstrated the ever-increas- Farah provincial council, Jamila base to attack Afghan and Coali- forces was supported by artillery Amini said, “the situation of Farah tion forces. Al Qaeda has also had ing capability of Afghan National and air forces. A large number of 100-day rally Security Forces to protect the ci- is alarming and five districts have a presence in the district; in June dential area by land mafia and pow- weapons and ammunition were been captured by Taliban. They 2009 an al Qaeda trainer was killed erful individuals,” the official said, vilians from indiscriminate IED also confiscated during the raids. President Donald Trump late Sat- attacks. (Pajhwok) conduct their operations at night.” during fighting there. (ATN) urday accused mainstream U.S fearing the historical sites and arti- media of unfair criticism as he kept facts might be destroyed if the gov- "one promise after another" dur- ernment did not pay attention to ing his first 100 days in office. their protection. "I could not possibly be more “The Dasht-i-Khamchan thrilled than to be more than 100 desert measures 750 acres but 150 miles away from Washington's acres have been grabbed by land swamp," Trump told his support- mafia and strongmen,” the direc- ers in Pennsylvania. Trump ac- tor said, explaining the bridge on cused the media of being "fake Kokcha River, built 300 years ago, news" and "out of touch", and said had been damaged partially. The Independent Election Com- they should be given a "big, fat, However, he said the recon- mission (IEC) officials say hold- failing grade". The president de- struction of the bridge was ing the upcoming parliamentary scribed his first 100 days as "very planned by the Information and election depends on budget and the exciting and very productive". FAIZABAD: Local officials said Culture Department. Work on the usage of new technology. Meanwhile in Washington, D.C., on Sunday most of historical sites link would be launched once the The head of IEC Secretariat, well known investigative journal- and monuments in northeastern Aga Khan Trust for Culture Imam Mohammad Warimach said ist Bob Woodward told partici- Badakhshan province were under (AKTC) provided funds. the election commissions are at- pants of the White House Corre- threat of destruction from local He said 22 historical sites were tempting to implement the plan of spondents' Dinner: "The effort strongmen. registered with his department. using new technology, despite it today to get this best obtainable Information and Culture Di- There are more historical monu- faces many challenges. version of the truth is largely made rector Naqibullah Saqibyar told ments in other parts of the prov- Warimach said: “We will in good faith. "Mr. President, the Pajhwok Afghan News Badakhs- ince but they have neither been present our final plan in terms of media is not fake news," Wood- han had 5,000 years old history surveyed nor registered for lack of using technology [in the election] ward said to a solemn applause but the 30-year conflict had dam- funds.Saqibyar urged donors, par- to the government tomorrow; from the gathering. Headlining the aged historical sites there. ticularly AKTC and the central thereafter, how much development event -- which Trump became the One site in Dasht-i-Kham- government to pay more attention can be brought to the election pro- first president to miss in more than chan, a desert located a kilometer to the protection of historical sites cess, remains to be seen.” three decades -- comedian Hasan west of the provincial capital, ran in Badakhshan.Syed Hussain, an- Following the matter, some Minhaj said: "We gotta address the the risk of being damaged. “This other information and culture offi- election observers believe the gov- elephant that's not in the room. desert was once invaded during the cial, said eight historical sites were ernment makes political use of the Ayubzada said: “We didn’t see election issue.” The election ob- comes as IEC is yet to announce a The leader of our country is not Genghis Khan era and the historic under threat. They have been dug election issue. practical steps of the government servers emphasize on implemen- specific date for holding parliamen- here. And that's because he lives in castle there was reconstructed lat- up and the artefacts sold abroad Director of Transparent Elec- to have strong determination for tation of biometric registration of tary election. Earlier, the govern- Moscow, it is a very long flight. er on. “But the castle was recently during more than three decades of tion Foundation of Afghanistan holding the election yet. Govern- voters plan for bringing transpar- ment officials stressed the election (ToloNews) ruined and converted into a resi- war in the country. (Pajhwok) (TEFA), Mohammad Nayeem ment politically maneuvering the ency in upcoming election. This will be held this year. (ATN)