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www.afghanistantimes.af www.facebook.com/ afghanistantimeswww.twitter.com/ afghanistantimes MONDAY . MAY 29. 2017 -Jawza 08, 1396 HS

KABUL: Meshrano Jirga mem- bers on Monday divided over the selling of 72 acres of land to the Alokozy Group of Companies (AGC) by the government in Kab- ul. The government last year signed a deal with AGC for making in- vestment and doing business in the country. Under the contract, the AT News Report AGC was sold 72 acres of land near the Kabul Airport to estab- ABUL: Ministry of Refu lish six factories. gees and Repatriation on One acre of land was sold to Sunday said that over AGC against $5,000 and the com- K pany was expected to invest $350 140,000 Afghan refugees returned home mostly from Pakistan and million by construction of six fac- Iran in the past two months. tories. Some lawmakers had earli- “Some 89,299 refugees from Iran er demanded the contract with and 55,694 refugees from Pakistan AGC to be revoked because the land was sold at a low price with- returned home since be gaining of He said those opposing the try. Some lawmakers demanded solar year,” said Sayed Hussain out bidding process. But Farhad Sakhi, a lawmaker deal had connections with land investigation to individuals who Alemi Balkhi, refugees minister. He mafia and their attempt was to take tried to prevent the AGC from in- said that over 1,300 Afghan refu- from Kabul, said: “In foreign coun- tries, land is provided to investors money from the AGC in form of vestment in Afghanistan. Chairman gees returned to the country from commission. Fazal Hadi Muslimyar said a hand- European states, where out this free of cost. I have two factories in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mohammad Alem Ezidyar, ful of servants of Iran and Paki- figure 987 were returned voluntar- first deputy chairman, supported stan were against Afghanistan’s ily and 329 were deported. In the for which the land was provided free of cost.” AGC investment and said: “We economic progress. He said the year of 2016, Afghan refugees de- should support investment com- upper house would investigate the ported from Europe were 580 Af- Mohammad Hanif Hanafi, an- other lawmaker, said “The agents ing to the country.” He said if there contract signed between the AGC ghans, he added. He said that to- was any problem, it should be re- and the government. “If there is tally 250,000 Afghans have sub- of Iran and Pakistan don’t want to see Afghanistan become economi- solved legally and no one should any issue, it would be resolved mitted documents for seeking asy- stop investment flow to the coun- through legal ways.” (Pajhwok) lum in the past two years. He said cally self-reliant.” that after flood of refugees from Afghanistan and other countries, the European countries made de- Several cision to deport back high number of refugees including Afghans. He stated that fortunately through dif- villages ferent meeting and agreement, Af- ghan government succeeded to fallen to slow down deportation of Afghan from European countries. Point- ing to Afghan refugees’ bad condi- Taliban in tion in different foreign countries particular in Greece, Minister said Badakhshan’s that earlier Afghan government had dispatched a delegation to Greece Tagab AT News Report liceman shot dead his six colleagues police, he added. to talk over issues, where fortu- in an outpost Saturday in Shinkai Insider attack is one of the main nately the delegation succeeded to KABUL: A local policeman said district,” said Provincial Council challenge in police and army crew, partly solve challenges. district to have been linked to the Taliban Member Assadullah Kakar. The Afghan forces often faced such at- militants killed his six of his col- killer fled to the Taliban after the tack in the past years, thus it is ocal security officials con leagues in southern Zabul province, attack, according to Kakar. Inves- required of the government to take firmed a number of villages said officials Sunday. “The po- tigation started over the case by a serious step to solve the issue. Lin Tagah district have been fallen to Taliban militants in north- eastern Badakhshan province. An official of National Direc- torate of Security (NDS) who wished to go unnamed said that AT News Report Taliban militants stormed a num- ber of security posts in Kato Bala ABUL: At least 50 mili area of Tagab on Saturday noon. TEHRAN: A group of six people har comes as the Afghan forces are tants were killed and 21 Around 11 villages were fallen were arrested by the Afghan secu- busy conducting counter-terrorism others were wounded in to militants during the fight that rity forces before they manage to operations against the offshoot of K continued until 7pm last evening, join militants of the ISIL terrorist the ISIL terrorist group in this different crackdowns within past 24 hours. the source said. Afghan security group in Eastern Afghanistan. province. The local officials had In a press release issued here, forces suffered no casualties and According to the local govern- earlier said that the majority of the Ministry of Defense, (MoD) said there is no information about the ment officials, at least three Paki- ISIL militants fighting in this prov- that Afghan National Army (ANA) militants’ fatalities, the official add- stanis are among those arrested ince are foreign nationals, mainly in collaboration with Afghan Na- ed. during an operation in Nangarhar from the tribal regions of Pakistan. Ghani tional Police (ANP) and National Kamil Baig Hussaini, a provin- province, Khaama Press reported. Provincial governor’s spokesman Directorate of Security (NDS) cial council member said around 25 The provincial governor’s Ataullah Khogyani last year that personal has conducted joint op- villages containing highest popu- spokesman Ataullah Khogyani the documents obtained from the dismissed erations against insurgents in dif- lation of the district, were overran confirmed the report and said the dead bodies and those arrested ferent areas of Nangarhar, Lagh- by militants due to negligence and individuals were arrested from the during the operations in Achin, man, Kapisa, Paktia, Paktika, lack of coordination among securi- vicinity of Rodat district. Kot, Haska Mina and other parts Herat Khost, Ghazni, Kandahar, Uruz- ty forces. Meanwhile, Zabihullah “Three Pakistanis and three of Nangarhar, reveal that they are AT News Report soor Ahmad Khan of Pakistan’s gan, Badghis Faryab, Kunduz, Mujahid a spokesman for Taliban Afghan nationals were arrested by originally residents of Orakzai mayor Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Baghlan, Herat, Badakhshan and militant claimed that security forc- the police forces from Rodat dis- Agency. Khogyani further added KABUL: The first meeting of the The Afghan delegation stressed Helmand provinces. The press re- es suffered heavy causalities in trict as they wanted to join the ISIL that the intelligence information AT News Report China-Afghanistan-Pakistan on the importance of economic lease added that in these opera- fight with militants during so called group,” he added. gathered by the government also (CAP) Practical Cooperation Di- cooperation especially regional tions, 50 insurgents including four Mansouri operation in Tagab dis- The anti-government armed reveal that the ISIL loyalists are KABUL: President Ashraf Ghani alogue was held in Beijing, the cap- connectivity to realize not only the Daesh fighters were killed and 21 trict in the past 24 hours. militant groups including the ISIL mostly comprised of Pakistani dismissed Herat Mayor—Farhad ital city of China, on Saturday. economic potential but also its others were injured. This joint He said that 13 security posts loyalists have not commented re- nationals. According to Khogyani, Niyayesh as a result of complaints In this meeting, three coun- impact on stability and peace in operation of the Defense Security including three strategic areas and garding the report so far. the residents of Tajikistan are also lodged against him by the local res- tries discussed regional coopera- the region, highlighting Afghani- Forces was supporting by the ar- 15 villages were captured by Tali- This comes as at least three fighting alongside the Pakistani idents, Munira Yousufzada, tion with a focus on infrastruc- stan’s geographic advantage to re- tillery and air forces, added state- ban in Tagab district. A number of Pakistanis were arrested during a nationals for ISIL terrorist group spokesperson for the Independent ture projects to advance practical alize the vision of a connected, in- ment. The ANA discovered and weapons and military equipments similar operation in Nangarhar who are mainly deployed after Directorate of Local Governance cooperation in various areas and tegrated region, the statement add- con iscated weapons and ammuni- also captured from Afghan forces, province last month. The arrest of completing training in Pakistan. (IDLG), said on Sunday. to promote mutual benefit and re- ed. In this connection, the Afghan tion in the operations as well. Mujahid said. (Pajhwok) the Pakistani nationals in Nangar- (FNA) Yousufzada in a statement said gional economic integration under side proposed a number of specif- that the suspended mayor would the framework of the One Belt and ic key connectivity projects in road resume his office once the investi- One Road (OBOR) Initiative, the and rail sectors as well as in the gation process over his two years Ministry of Finance said in a state- sectors of hydro and solar power of official activities to be complet- ment. generation. The three sides agreed Helicopters seen landing in Taliban ed. According to statement, the to make China-Afghanistan-Paki- According to the statement, mentioned meeting was co-chaired stan Practical Cooperation Dia- IDLG had been assigned investi- by Khalid Payenda, Senior Advis- logue a regular forum for coopera- gation to a fact-finding committee er to the Minister of Finance, Di- tion on infrastructure under OBOR controlled district in Ghazni rector General Xiao Qian from Initiative with the next round of to probe into the matter. A local official in Ghazni province and I have reported to the central choppers have landed in Sayad ince which is under control of the However, the IDLG has so far Chinese Ministry of Foreign Af- discussions to be held in Kabul, fairs and Director General Man- the statement added. claims that unidentified helicopters government”. district of northern Sar-e-Pul prov- Taliban armed group. (ATN) not made public further details re- have been seen landing in Waghaz About a week ago, the Tali- garding the investigation of the is- and Khogyani districts of the prov- ban insurgents claimed they have sue. ince which are fully controlled by taken control of Waghaz district. Prior to this, at least seven the Taliban militants. Ghazni governor added that border police official, a military Provincial council member, security forces in [Waghaz] district commissioner of the border police Hassan Reza Yousufi, told Ariana have left all their equipments be- in Islam Qala, and border police News,” landing of helicopters in hind when they were retreating chief for Herat province were sus- the area controlled by the enemies from the area. pended by the President Ashraf PUL-I-ALAM : The administra- militant attacked the Khoshi dis- raises questions”. Ghazni is among the volatile Ghani in February this year. In An army spokesman in the provinces in central-east part of addition to that, a manager of pass- tive chief of Khoshi district of cen- trict Chief Abdul Hameed Hamid tral Logar province and his two before noon. province also confirmed the re- the country where Taliban controls port department and three other port, adding they were seen in a five of its 18 districts (Nawa, Kh- police personnel were also dis- bodyguards have been wounded in The incident happened in militant attack on Sunday, an offi- Wazir Kala area when Hamid was number of areas. ogyani, Rasheedan, Waghaz and missed by the President, while re- Provincial governor, Abdul Zana Khan) and have a presence sponding to a various complaints cial said. on his way to the district from Pul- Governor spokesman Saleem i-Alam, the provincial capital. Karim Mateen, said,” I have also in more of nine other districts. Ear- against them lodged by the local heard about this from the people lier reports also emerged that two residents. Saleh told Pajhwok Afghan News (Pajhwok) MONDAY . MAY 29 , 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES Australia ‘cannot afford’to lose Afghanistan to terror

Shadow Defence Spokesman Ri- chard Marles has said Australia “cannot afford” to see Afghanistan fall after it emerged that the Unit- ed States had made a formal re- quest for the defence force to up its commitment. One Afghan refugee describes how his 'life was destroyed in While he said Labor was yet to decide if they were in favour of just 12 hours' as he was returned to the country he'd fled. Ramadan: Holy the request, his comments appear abul, Afghanistan - Mo to argue for an increase in defence hammad Shoaib Hosseini personnel in Afghanistan. thought he was the lucki- fasting month for The Weekend Australian re- K est man in Germany. ported that Pentagon officials for- Seven years after fleeing his mally approached the Australian home in war-torn Afghanistan, he Defence Force last week to back a had a full-time job at a timber fac- Muslims marred previous NATO request for an in- tory, rented a modest apartment creased contribution from Austra- and had friends who were like fam- lia as part of a possible allied surge. ily. But on March 27, his life im- by violence in It is understood that in any ploded. increased commitment would be My question is, why did they about training and mentoring forc- destroy my life in just 12 hours, es to bolster the Afghan army. sending me here without money Afghanistan, Libya Australia has 270 defence per- or any help. Is there anyone who sonnel in Afghanistan at the mo- can answer me? ment, stationed in Kabul and Kan- Riyadh: The world's 1.5 billion ple for the month of Ramadan," a Mohammad Shoaib Hosseini Muslims began observing the holy Government of National Accord dahar. Trump call for more Dig- 9am, five police officers gers Mr Marles said Labor was fasting month of Ramadan on Sat- statement said. marched into his factory in the urday, blighted by conflict and Residents of west Mosul in seeking a briefing on the request German city of Brandenburg, hand- before making a decision. bloodshed in countries ranging northern Iraq also did not expect a cuffed him in front of his col- from Afghanistan to Libya. peaceful Ramadan, far from it as “We’ll look at any request once leagues, and within just 12 hours we’re properly briefed by the gov- Ramadan is one of the five pil- Iraqi forces pressed a broad assault had put him on a plane back to lars of Islam during which Mus- on areas still held by IS jihadists. ernment we hope to have that Afghanistan. briefing this week,” he told Sky lims are supposed to devote them- Earlier this week, the military "I asked them, 'Why? What selves to praying, giving to chari- said it had dropped "hundreds of News. He said, however that Aus- have I done wrong?'" he said. tralia had a direct national interest ty and fasting from dawn to dusk. thousands of leaflets" on IS-held "They said, 'You've been rejected, It is sacred because tradition areas of Mosul, urging "citizens to in ensuring Afghanistan was not a that's why we're sending you hotbed of terrorist activity. says the Quran was revealed to the exit via safe corridors towards se- back'." Like hundreds of thousands Prophet Mohammed during that curity forces". “The starting point here is that of Afghans trying to escape con- Afghanistan matters ... we’ve got month. Although for many Ra- Ramadan is a month generally flict in their country, Hosseini had madan is a time for families to gath- marked by piety and sacrifice, and a direct interest in that country.” applied for asylum in Germany “This is the place where going er and break the fast with an Iftar during which Muslims abstain through a lawyer. His petition had meal at sunset and socialise, this from eating, drinking, smoking and back in the late 90s it was a haven been rejected twice, but he hoped for terrorist training and as people year it has been marked by vio- having sex from dawn to dusk. his third appeal would be success- lence. Civilians in impoverished Ye- well know a number of the Bali ful. "Even my lawyer didn't know bombers received training in Af- In Afghanistan's eastern city men, where Iran-backed Shiite that I'd been rejected the third of Khost, a Taliban car bomber Huthi rebels are battling govern- ghanistan leading up to the bomb- time," he said. "They never sent ing in 2002.” killed 13 people in the first major ment forces supported by a Sau- me any letter or anything, so I attack at the start of the holy di-led coalition, have certainly be- He said after a recent trip to wasn't worried. I thought they'd Afghanistan it was clear the secu- month targeting a CIA-funded mi- come accustomed to the sacrifice. let me know if they were going to litia group. The United Nations says the rity situation was deteriorating. deport me." “It is the case that al-Qa’ida is In the Philippines, security conflict there has killed more than "When they handcuffed me, I forces intensified a bombing cam- 8,000 people and has warned that having a greater presence in that was so ashamed. I asked them, country. ISIS also is present there. paign in one of the country's larg- 17 million Yemenis — 62 percent 'Please don't handcuff me. I'll come est Muslim-majority cities where of the population — are unable to The country is experiencing an in- with you'. I asked them not to take surgency. Children in the Qamber camp on the outskirts of Kabul they have been battling Islamic access food. A third of the coun- me in front of my colleagues. Did I militants. try's provinces are on the brink of “We can’t afford to see Af- murder anyone?" ghanistan lost.” Mr Marles said The Islamic State group, which famine, and it is also facing a chol- We met Hosseini in Kabul tions to the impoverished coun- and other countries, wanted to document that I came voluntarily. has been responsible for countless era epidemic. Labor would take a bipartisan ap- hours after he arrived from Ger- try. Some 80,000 Afghans are now withdraw their soldiers [from Af- Am I crazy that I would come here proach. “We’re going to act in a bloody attacks around the world, 'Reject violence' many. He had 50 euros ($56) in expected to be deported from Eu- ghanistan] by the end of 2014 first where I don't know anyone?" claimed responsibility for shoot- Several global leaders marked really constructive way here with his wallet, a small suitcase with rope, more than 12,000 from Ger- and then 2016. It didn't happen. Hosseini spoke to us in his the government.” “Bipartisanship ing dead 29 Christians on a bus in the start of Ramadan with mes- clothes, and some documents giv- many alone. It's a clear indication that the time small bedroom in a temporary hos- central Egypt. sages urging a peaceful world. is where we ought to be aiming in en to him by the Afghan govern- "The discussion is not about is not right for that, and deporta- tel in Kabul run by the Interna- terms of questions of this kind.” Friday's assault on the most "Islam is the religion of mercy, ment recognising his citizenship. whether Afghanistan is a safe coun- tions into that situation are really tional Organisation for Migration populous Arab state's Coptic moderation and peaceful coexist- Professor of International Securi- "My question is, why did try which can receive deportees or irresponsible." (IOM) for deported Afghans who ty and Intelligence Studies at The Christian minority community ence," King Salman of Saudi Ara- they destroy my life in just 12 not," said Thomas Ruttig, a Ger- Germany's interior minister, have nowhere else to go. prompted retaliatory air strikes on bia, home to Islam's holiest sites, Australian National University, hours, sending me here without man researcher and cofounder of foreign minister and other senior His father had sold their fami- John Blaxland, urged caution on an jihadists in neighbouring Libya and said in a statement. money or any help. Is there any- the Afghanistan Analysts Net- officials rejected repeated requests ly home in Kandahar province to an outpouring of condemnation. US president Donald Trump, increased commitment. “South one who can answer me?" work. "It's more or less purely from Al Jazeera for an interview. pay for his journey to Germany. East Asia needs our undivided at- "With a broken heart and tears winding up his first overseas trip Germany has experienced an about domestic politics here in But in a background briefing His family has since fled to Nepal in my eyes but after all, I wish all in office that began in Saudi Ara- tention. “I haven’t said ‘walk unprecedented influx of asylum Germany."Alireza Karimi says he in the Afghan capital, Kabul, Ger- to register as asylum seekers with away’. But there’s no point piling my friends a great Happy Ramadan bia, wished Muslims a "joyful seekers. In 2015 alone, 890,000 fears for his life if he is forced to many's ambassador stated that the UN, hoping to be resettled and may God accept all your Ramadan", and urged them to use on more ADF without a compel- people arrived, mostly from Syria return to his native Afghanistan every Afghan who is deported is somewhere else. He has no family ling and politically viable strate- prayers and fasting for the good of the holy month to reject extremist and Afghanistan. The country ac- after Germany rejected his appli- given four weeks notice and the left in Afghanistan. our beloved Egypt," Nabil Hakim, violence. "At its core, the spirit of gy,” he tweeted. Labor frontbench- cepted around 40 to 50 percent of cation for asylum [Karishma Vyas/ opportunity to apply for at least "Every mother and father want er Richard Marles has echoed the an Egyptian Copt who lives in the Ramadan strengthens awareness of the Afghans seeking refuge. Al Jazeera] 'Afghanistan is still one 700 euros ($784) in financial aid. the best for their child. They want United States, posted on Face- our shared obligation to reject vio- government’s caution on major But the doors are slowly clos- of the most intense conflicts in the But this was not Hosseini's them to achieve their potential. But constitutional change. “I would book. lence, to pursue peace, and to give ing on Chancellor Angela Merkel's world' According to Ruttig, be- experience. Both he and his Ger- in Afghanistan there's nothing. Clashes and famine to those in need who are suffering also make the point that the Prime so-called "open door" refugee pol- tween 2005 and 2015 Germany man lawyer told us that they nev- There's no work, there's only war. Minister’s observation about ref- Libya has been gripped by from poverty or conflict," Trump icy. With federal elections ap- only deported Afghan asylum seek- er received any notice of deporta- That's why they send their kids chaos since the overthrow and kill- said. In Indonesia, the world's erendums is evidently true.” “Ref- proaching on September 24, 2017, ers under exceptional circumstanc- tion. Without this information, overseas. That's why my parents erendums don’t get up unless they ing of longtime dictator Muammar most populous Muslim-majority and a growing reluctance by vot- es, because their home was con- Hosseini said he had no reason to sent me, so that I could eventually Gaddafi in 2011, with rival gov- country, police used a steamroller are something that is supported ers to accept more refugees, Ger- sidered too dangerous to return to. apply for financial aid. help them." "They took away my across the board and what we do ernments and militias vying for to crush thousands of bottles of many and other European Union "But without the situation in On a document provided to home, my job and now I'm wor- power and jihadists taking advan- alcohol, banned under Islam, and does need to be an act that unites countries are forcibly deporting Afghanistan really changing for the him by the Afghan embassy in ried about my family in Nepal, the country.” But Mr Marles sug- tage of the mayhem. torched a huge stash of seized asylum seekers whose applica- better, the government scrapped Berlin, it is stated that he volun- because I would send them mon- Representational picture. AFP drugs in the run-up to Ramadan. gested his party would be open to tions have failed. that." teered to return to his country. ey. What will happen to them?" supporting steps that go further Representational picture. AFP Soaring temperatures and long The deal was struck between "Afghanistan is still one of the "How could I have come voluntar- In a few days, Hosseini will On Friday, forces loyal to the days are expected to test the will than constitutional recognition in the EU and the Afghan government most intense, violent conflicts in ily? I never signed the documents. be forced to leave his hostel be- wake of calls for a treaty.= “Rec- UN-backed unity government bat- of those who are fasting in many last October in the lead up to a the world. It's not that the govern- I didn't even know I was being de- cause the IOM provides accom- tled rival militias in the capital Tri- countries. Many Ramadan shop- ognition in the constitution is very major donor conference in Brus- ment doesn't have information and ported," he said. modation for only 14 days. important and we support that but poli. The health ministry gave a pers have complained that rising sels. Afghanistan would agree to they don't know about it. But it's "If someone is coming volun- "Here in Kabul, in all of Af- provisional toll of 28 dead and food prices meant they could not we’ve never seen that as the be all take back its nationals and the EU for domestic purposes that it's tarily, they let them know in ad- ghanistan, I have nobody. I made a and end all, we’ve always had an more than 100 wounded, while prepare lavish iftar meals as they would pledge more than $15bn in presented in another way," he said. vance. A person can sell his pos- life over there for seven years. I loyalist forces said 52 of their once did, and would need to save open mind to other measures that aid to the country. A leaked memo Children in the Qamber camp sessions, vacate his home. But you made friends. It was really hard, might need to be taken to pursue fighters had been killed in the bat- some money to celebrate the Eid suggested that if Afghanistan had on the outskirts of Kabul [Karish- come to my work, you handcuff but now I'm here. Where can I go?" tles that rocked residential areas. al-Fitr festival that follows at the and complete this process,” he refused, the EU would slash dona- ma Vyas/Al Jazeera] "Germany, me and then you show me a fake he asked. (Al Jazeera) said. (THEAUSTRALIAN.) "This is their gift to the peo- end of the month. (FIRSTPOST) Pa k ist a n , Afgh a n ist a n t o p lay d eb u t T20 fr ien d ly in Ka b u l

Pakistan cricketers will play their bond of friendship,” Khan told a homes in the wake of the Soviet first Twenty20 match in Afghani- press conference in Lahore after a invasion in 1979. stan’s capital later this year, offi- meeting with his Afghan counter- Indian cricket team in good cials from the nations said on Sat- part Atif Mashal. spirit ahead of ICC Champions urday, as the neighbours put aside Harmanpreet Kaur to play for Trophy: Ajinkya Rahane political tensions for two upcom- Surrey Stars in Kia Super League Revenue share is ‘starving’ ing friendlies. Yuvraj Singh, Rohit Sharma to grassroots of funds: Cricket Aus- The announcement of the miss Champions Trophy warm- tralia games, the first of which is sched- up game vs New Zealand The sport struggled to get a uled for July or August, comes as Khan said the first friendly foothold in Afghanistan under the Islamabad and Kabul face off over would be held in Kabul, followed hardline Islamist Taliban, but has border skirmishes and terrorism. by a second fixture in Pakistan. An become hugely popular in the coun- The Pakistan Cricket Board international series was also agreed try since the regime was toppled (PCB), which has long advocated between the two countries and slat- in a US-led invasion in 2001. supporting its war-ravaged neigh- ed for an unspecified later date. While Pakistan has supported bour to boost the game in the re- Afghanistan’s Mashal said that the Afghan team by supplying gion, also promised to provide while the boards were “trying to equipment and arranging fixtures Afghanistan’s players with a keep sports -- especially cricket - with the fledgling side, rival India ground to use as their base, in an - away from politics”, he hoped has also been keen to lend its sup- apparent move to counter India’s the matches would have an impact. port. growing influence. “I hope this tour should be Last year, Afghanistan’s na- PCB chairman Shaharyar used to positively influence the tional team shifted its base from Khan said politics will not be al- political arena and create a good Sharjah in United Arab Emirates lowed to interfere in cricket, refer- atmosphere between the two to Noida, Delhi, while India’s ring to the recent strained relations friendly nations,” he said. former batsman Lalchand Rajput between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Afghans learned to play crick- replaced Pakistan’s Inzamam-ul- “This visit by Afghan board et in refugee camps in Pakistan af- Haq as their national team coach. head has helped in renewing the ter they were forced to leave their (HINDUSTANTIMES) MONDAY . MAY 29 , 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES How much people are attentive to expiry date on products?

EMERGENCY tory of Afghanistan. should talk about Afghanistan’s CALLS They also hinted toward con- safety at first, in the past 24 hours, KABUL: Afghanistan as a con- stitution crisis. The former Presi- how many time do we think about sumer country imports most of dent Hamid Karzai accepted that Afghanistan,” he added. We have essential daily used items, but a Police free market was one of his mis- to return back to our motherland significant amount of expired and takes, so free market is part of con- physically and mentally. poor quality products make their 100 - 119 stitution—thus the constitution Meanwhile, Professor Qasem way to local markets as people has problem. Jamdar said that Afghan people in pay little heed to expiry date. They also expressed concerns the United State recently in gath- The expiry or best before to Hospitals that 16 years achievements could ering called for the end to the crisis use dates on goods are for custom- be dashed to the ground in two in Afghanistan. “These Afghans ers to know a product they are FMIC Hospital years if attention not paid. called for end to the Afghan con- buying is fresh or expired. Prod- Behind Kabul Medical Moreover, Balch Zada talked flict in the very nose of US admin- ucts after expiry dates are not nec- about western role in the country, istration, because they understand essarily spoiled or unhealthy, but University: saying that western believes is also that US can put an end to this cri- should be consumed within the 0202500200-+93793275595 a crisis. “Leaders who were think- sis,” he added. date given by the manufacturer. By Sadiq Yosufi added that the National Unity but there some elements trying to ing that western and US are here, Moreover, he said that the Central Statistics Organisation Government UNG established do so.” so Afghanistan would not face any former President Hamid Karzai in its report released on May 9 Rabia-i-Balkhi Hospital difficulty, but we know that west- has said that peace in Afghanistan KABUL: Experts participated in based on political agreement—not He also talked about popula- said the volume of Afghanistan Pule Bagh-e- Umomi on ballot decision. tion, land, and sovereignty crisis. ern and US have left us at some is in hands of US and Pakistan, imports stood at $6.5 billion in the Rana Think Tank monthly ses- stage.” but none paid heed to his call. 070263672 sion has expressed their concern “So we have legitimacy crisis “We have estimation population, 1395 solar year, with the bulk com- with this government, and on dai- there is no exact numbers of peo- “This was our mindset that Another political expert, Sha- ing from neighboring Pakistan and over current situation of the coun- these powerful countries would kor Salangi, said that Afghanistan try, terming Afghanistan under full ly basis political leaders are taking ple, so we don’t know how many Iran. Khairkhana Hospital bout this. This is part of crisis. schools, roads, hospitals and oth- make a great country for us, but is in an emergency situation, so Imported goods include food crisis from every angle. we did not believed in our work- though mobilization we can’t fight 0799-321007 Political and social experts, But the government is not paying er facilities we needs.” He empha- items, medicine, cosmetics and heed,” he said. sized that population crisis has to force, and also supported western crisis. “A party that has 40 years detergents, on which mentioning who attended the Think Tank, said believes,” he said, adding that this history, can’t hold unity, so how 2401352 that Afghan masses from politi- The activist also talked about be ended, because government expiry dates are deemed necessary. political crisis, saying that there won’t be able to provided facili- is what we can call a western be- it is rational to think others could Imports and poor quality/ex- cians to commoners have been fell- lieve crisis. have unity,” he added. ing crisis in the country. has been a large rift between Pres- ties to a population which the num- pired goods Indira Gandhi Children ident Ghani and Chief Executive ber is not exact. Moreover, he added that Af- He added, “If we can’t reverse The Ministry of Public Health They explained crisis in dif- ghanistan have been pushing to- from one of our achievements in ferent parts, and why a country Officer, Abdullah Abdullah, where He said that during presiden- (MoPH) says it is seriously con- Hospital, Wazir Akbar some people are working for Pres- tial campaign election, candidates ward proxy wars. “We are not good the favor of Taliban to bring peace cern about the large scale delivery could triggers toward it. They also ally to China, US, Russia and etc… and stability in the country, so this Khan, Kabul 2301372 talked about ways to get rid of cri- ident while some for CEO. “Such brought their supporters number, of poor quality and expired items trend is called political crisis.” which comes more than 45 million. we are working hard know to re- is also crisis can be called ‘gain cri- to Afghanistan. sis. Emergency time is called cri- gain trust with these countries,” ses.” “If someone doesn’t want a sis, the experts elucidated, adding Moreover, Baloch Zada “So this is problematic figure as Dr. Kanishka Turkistani, en- Ibn-e- Seena termed trust crisis in the country, we have 29 million people in esti- he added. girl to dance in TV, and people vironmental health department in- that none knows when crisis is tak- If situation prevails, Russia stand against him, saying these are en place. They believe nobody can saying that none has trust to any- mation.” charge at MoPH, said hundreds of Pul-e-Artan, Kabul one in the current situation of the Regarding land crisis, he said and Iran would strengthen its bor- our gains, it has to be protected, tonnes of expired and low quality stand against crisis, as it comes ders, to prevent the Islamic State but what about those people in 2100359 without any announcement. You country. that 60 percent lands have been goods were discovered and de- Unfortunately, we are losing under Taliban’s control. Moreover, (IS), aka Daesh terrorists’ infiltra- first line of war,” he said, adding stroyed annually in Afghanistan. can’t recognize it, it comes uncon- tion to their land, he added. that achievement has to be based ditionally and at the same time society trust, as well as political we have problem with Pakistan However, he said expired Wazir Akbar Khan trust, the experts in the Think Tank geographically. “We should work Everyone from government on society acceptance. Another goods continued to be imported uncontrolled. officials to the ordinary Afghans expert, Sarwar Ahamdzai, said Hospital “Crisis has so many faces with lamented. They emphasized on hard to retake our lost lands back despite MoPH efforts at finding the way out from such catastro- from Pakistan, as history tells it is have to accept that there is crisis. there is a need to find out solu- and destroying them. “Expired 2301741, 2301743 several consequences,” a civil so- However, the main question is that tions to current crisis through log- ciety activist, Ajmal Baloch Zada phe. ours,” Balch Zada said. goods are not imported through Furthermore, the experts In total we are under full cri- does the government seeing this ical ways. “If we request a wrong customs, but they are smuggled told Rana Think Thank. It could uncertainty as crisis or not, if not, way, and it get implement, then have a dangerous outcome and talked about identity crisis, say- sis, he said, adding that in Kanda- into the country,” he said. Ali Abad ing that demands in the states-quo har there is another rule, while in then it is a problem, he said. we are on wrong way, deepening A MoPH spokesman didn’t positive product too, he added. Balch Zada further went on further the crisis,” he said, adding Shahrara, Kabul “Crisis has two steps—one is suc- have changed. “New generations Bamyan a lawmaker can stop an provide information about how have been emerged in society, airplane from landing. saying that crises have to be con- that there no proper policy how much of the consumption items – 2100439 cess and other is deadly,” he said, trolled, and there is need to find a to utilize our water, use of or agri- adding, “If we can control crisis whether it’s Tajik, Pashtoon, Haz- Three key organize of the some produced locally--are up to ara, Baloch, and others, are trying country—legislature, executive, logic solution to the current crisis. culture lands, and etc… the standard and are supplied af- we would move toward prosperi- There is a need to wipe up the sig- He added that Afghan leaders ty, and if we support, it would lead to make identity toward them. and judiciary is also in deep crisis. ter the real date is checked? Malalai Maternity “Thus we are in crisis of identity Legislature has already lost it le- nals from where crisis is seems that are informing about making a However, Siyamuddin Pasa- us toward destruction.” could be enlarge at the future. plane, but when these plans are to Hospital According to him, Afghanistan too, the process of electronic ID- gitimacy, as Wolesi Jirga elections ralai, the Afghanistan Chamber of cards are also in deep crisis.” have not been held. He suggested convening of the see the light of day is unknown. Commerce and Industries 2201377/ 2301743 is going under legitimacy crisis. Loya Jirga as a great way to put an He added that if durable solution “The current government has no At the same time, Baloch Zada Moreover, the expert believes (ACCI)’s spokesman, said corrup- said, “in the course of history, Af- that the NUG has the weakest cab- end to this crisis, and it is very not fined, these crisis would re- tion allowed products without legitimacy, and its key pillars are simple if there is intention. “We main unchanged. Banks not strong, so this is crisis.” He ghanistan had no idea of division, inet members in the course of his- their dates and quality checked at borders. “Our borders aren’t safe and corruption and smuggling go Da Afghanistan Bank together. The government has 2100302, 2100303 failed to identify those behind the business.” But Pasaralai said prolonged Bakhtar Bank storage of food and hygienic items 0776777000 inside the country and selling such items by local shopkeepers was Azizi Bank part of the problem. 0799 700900 He said smuggling of import- ed goods without being checked Pashtany Bank was a blow to the country’s econ- omy and people’s health and 2102908, 2103868 asked the responsible institutions, especially the ministries of finance, Air Services commerce and industry, and MoPH to seriously address the Safi Airways 400 irrigation issue. Despite attempts, Pajhwok wasn’t able to have comments 020 22 22 222 associations operational from the Ministry of Finance, which is responsible to manage Ariana customs and the Ministry of Com- in 23 provinces merce and Industries in this regard. 020-2100270 Awareness level among peo- In cooperation with over 300 “The main of the irrigation ple No specific figures are avail- Kam Air farmers and in-charges of the wa- associations is better use of wa- able with relevant organizations to ter irrigation associations, a con- ter in the farmlands, fair distribu- show the level of awareness among 0799974422 ference was held by the ministry tion of water, considering rights people about the issue. However of agriculture, irrigation and live- of water, establishment of coor- interviews with a number of indi- Hotels stock here in Kabul, said the relat- dination among the farmers, pre- viduals in Kabul city show the ed authorities. vention of water loss and mainte- awareness level is extremely low. Safi Landmark “Over 400 irrigation associa- nance of irrigation project,” said Nargis Mirzayi, an Afghan ref- tions are now operating in 23 prov- the minister adding by imple- ugee in Iran who had spent most 020-2203131 inces of the country, benefiting meation of the projects, his min- of her life there, is currently living more than 327 thousand and five istry provides support and in- in Dar-ul-Aman area of Kabul. She SERENA hundred people,” said Assadullah crease opportunities for agricul- said the sale of expired items in Zamir, the minister of agriculture, ture harvests in the farmlands and Afghanistan was a serious prob- 0799654000 irrigation and livestock in a news orchards and generally pave the lem and should be seriously paid conference “Fair Distribution of way for agricultural products de- attention. New Rumi Restaurant Water” adding the irrigation asso- velopments in the country. He She recalled: “In Iran, they ciations can play vital role in set- said the ministry was making plan were very sensitive about expiry 0776351347 tlement of water disputes, water not only on maintenance of water dates. In case expired items were distribution, unity of the people plants, but on the technique of found, they were immediately de- Internet Services and prevention of misusing water. irrigation development for the stroyed. We returned to Afghani- Considering rights of waters, farmers. “Right now more than stan about three years back and UA Telecom cleaning of water canals and cul- 400 irrigation associations cover- we weren’t aware about this issue 0796701701 / 0796702702 vert and removal of problems em- ing over 327,000 and 500 people until I bought a face cream.” She anated from floodwaters in the di- are working in 23 provinces of the said most people in Afghanistan rection of water flow, sustainable country,” said Zamir who said didn’t pay attention to expiry Exchange Rate maintenance and efficacious utili- planned to form 300 new similar dates.Sohaila, 34, a resident of zation of water networks are from association and conduct five dif- 1.00 USD JALALABAD: Drivers and pas- launch of the terminal scheme. ble for drivers and passengers. He third municipal district of Kabul, the most important duties of the ferent training program for the said she always bought needed 67.60AFN sengers complain of what they call He demands the authorities wants the project to be executed irrigation associations in the coun- five irrigation associations. The snail-paced work on a bus termi- concerned accelerate work on the on priority. items for home but never read or try. underground-waters in many paid attention to dates on nal in the border town of Torkham terminal to provide relief to the “There is no proper parking According to the minister, fair parts of the country have been in eastern Nangarhar province. people. lot for trucks. I have to park my products.The housewife said she 1000.00 IRR distribution of water plays key said polluted or gradually drying was illiterate and she couldn’t read The passengers using the Waliullah, accompanying his truck at the roadside, but security role in the living condition of the out. Experts believed if the peo- 17.90AFN Torkham-Jalalabad highway also mother to Peshawar for medical officials bother me all too fre- dates and blindly trusted shop- people and by using the new tech- ple avoid recklessly digging wells, keepers in buying needed stuff from grumble about hefty fares charged treatment, is sitting at the side of quently. A proper terminal would nique of water management, the they will not face water shortage by drivers. They link the mess to the road in the scorching heat. He have saved us this trouble,” he them. level of harvests would grow. in the future. (BNA) However, she said relying on 1.00 UAE the absence of a proper transport says if the terminal had been built remarked.Acting director of the 18.40AFN system. in time, they would be waiting in a Torkham municipality, Eng. Khy- shopkeepers was not a good expe- Eighteen months back, the proper place. al Gul, acknowledges non-avail- rience because they sold expired Ministry of Transport and Civil Dil Agha, who travels regular- ability of a proper terminal has products to people.However, Par- dis Nasiri, a resident of Khushal 1.00 EUR Aviation (MoTCA) launched ly to Torkham, says the delay in resulted in problems, which would 74.20AFN work on a modern bus terminal in construction of the bus terminal linger on as long as the project is Khan Mena, told Pajhwok Afghan Torkham to facilitate passengers has caused an unprecedented hike not completed. But Transport Di- News he always checked expiry and drivers. in fares. He claims fares jump ev- rector Eng. Khyal Ahmad Omar- dates on food items. “There is noth- But passengers lament the ab- ery week but there no one to hold khel claims most of work on the ing valuable than a man’s health 1000.00 INR sence of a suitable waiting area for drivers accountable. terminal has been completed and and I always advise shopkeepers 1030.00AFN women and children. Sahar Gul, a Trucker Noor-ul-Haq dubs the the facility will open for public ser- to check their items’ dates because when they sell them, they could passenger, alleges fares have slow-paced work on the construc- vice within two months. 1000.00 PKR jumped multiple times since the tion of the terminal a source of trou- (Pajhwok) cause many health problems.” (Pajhwok) 635.00AFN MONDAY . MAY 29, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES

The country appeals for international assis- tance after the disaster kills 126 people - with another 97 missing. BANGLADESH

At least 126 people have been facilities are being provided to REINSTALLS killed in floods and landslides in them." With more rains expected Sri Lanka - with about half a mil- on Sunday and Monday, rescuers lion people displaced. The torren- are racing against time to reach tial rains - the worst to hit the coun- those affected. In Galle, a city in JUSTICE STATUE try since 2003 - swamped west- the southwest that was badly hit ern and southern regions. The by the 2004 tsunami, aerial foot- country has deployed some 2,000 age showed enormous areas of military personnel to assist in the flooding, with residents standing THAT IRKED rescue effort. knee deep and rescuers distribut- But officials said access to ing aid packages. some of the affected areas remains Sri Lanka has appealed for in- ISLAMISTS very difficult and hopes of finding ternational assistance in the wake the 97 people still missing are fad- of the disaster. India is sending ing. The early rainy season down- three Navy ships with supplies pours hit large parts of the coun- and other aid, the first of which try on Thursday, with some of the arrived in Colombo on Saturday. most affected areas in Kalutara, The UN has promised to do- Ratnapura and Matara. nate water purification tablets, Health minister Rajitha Se- tents and other supplies for the naratne was quoted by local re- displaced, while Pakistan an- ports as saying: "A total of nounced that it will soon dispatch 493,455 people are now housed in a consignment of relief supplies. 185 relief camps and health care (SKY)

A sculptor says authorities in Bang- ground used for prayers during two ladesh have reinstalled a Lady Jus- Islamic festivals. But it also Years after Kerala tice statue near the country's Su- sparked criticism and protests preme Court, two days after its among liberals. removal following complaints by The sculpture is wrapped in a graft trial, a political Islamist hard-liners. sari, a Bangladeshi revision of the Sculptor Mrinal Haque said usual representation, the Greek Sunday workers put the statue goddess Themis blindfolded and back in place a few hundred meters clad in a gown. appointment brings (yards) from its original location. Islamists oppose idol worship The removal was to appease and consider the Lady Justice stat- hard-liners who said the statue was ue anti-Islamic. together convict, erected last year in front of a (AP) petitioner, judge Yo um -e -Takbe e r Left regime’s decision to give R Balakrishna Pillai a cabinet- rank post has been controversial in more ways than one. created balan ce o f

A pilot died and two crew mem- po w er in So uth bers were injured after a cargo plane of Goma Airlines crashed while landing at the Tenzing Hill- Asia: PM ary Airport in Lukla near Mount Qomolangma on Saturday after- noon, authorities confirmed. The 9N-AKY aircraft crashed as it was trying to land at the airport, which is often regarded as the most dan- gerous airport in the world. Lukla, located at an elevation of 2,800 meters, is the gateway to the world's highest peak Mount Qo- molangma located in the eastern district Solukhumbu. A politician who served a jail sen- homeless and that they had borne "The aircraft crashed just a few tence in a corruption case received the brunt of the state’s land re- meters away from the runway at a cabinet-rank posting in the Com- forms. He also reiterated that the 1:56 p.m. (local time)," Yogendra munist Party of India (Marxist)- ruling party was in favour of res- Kunwar, chief of the Lukla airport, led Left Democratic Front govern- ervation based on economic con- confirmed to Xinhua over phone. ment in Kerala last week. The per- ditions rather than caste. Rupesh Following the crash, the res- son who fought the case against Kumar, a Dalit activist and docu- cue operation was carried out im- him is chairman of the State Ad- mentary film-maker, accused pol- mediately by the team of the Ne- ministrative Reforms Commission, iticians of bowing to upper-caste pal Army, police, a rescue team of Bangladesh reinstalls ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister imperiled if they have a leadership also a cabinet-rank post, in the supremacy. “There is no surprise Goma Airlines and the locals. Dev Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Satur- without any vision or that is naive same government. And the judge in knowing that the SC/ST [Sched- Kumar Kathayat, a Nepal Army day said that the nation was show- about the national interests. The who convicted the politician is uled Caste / Scheduled Tribe] com- official who joined the rescue op- controversial ing unity to make Pakistan as an prime minister said if the national now governor of the state. This mission chairman is neglected eration, told Xinhua: "The aircraft Asian Tiger in economic terms as leadership shows bravery, the na- odd situation has come about with without a cabinet rank when his crashed just in front of my eyes it had shown unity in 1998 when tion gets confidence and achieve the Kerala government’s decision counterpart in the forward com- after it entered into the clouds near ‘un-Islamic’ the country carried out nuclear progress. “Nineteen years ago, we to appoint 82-year-old Kerala munity [body] has been granted the runway. We rescued all of the tests making the national defense had made country’s defense as im- Congress (B) leader R Balakrishna the same,” he said, adding that one three crew members within an hour as impregnable. In his message to pregnable. Today, with same ded- Pillai as chairman of the state’s should not expect present-day Left of the incident." Captain Paras Rai the nation on Youm-e-Takbeer, the ication and passion, the country’s Forward Community Welfare parties in Kerala and India to en- was pronounced dead at hospital statue after outcry prime minister said May 28, 1998 economy is also being made strong Board. In 2011, the Supreme Court sure social justice for all. at 3:20 p.m. local time while the was an unforgettable day in the his- and stable. In this age, the defense had found Pillai guilty of causing Pillai’s response co-pilot was reported to be in crit- tory of Pakistan when country’s of any nation cannot be separated losses to the Kerala State Electric- Responding to the controver- ical condition. Though it has been appeared as an atomic power on from its economic stability,” he ity Board by awarding contracts sy over his appointment, Pillai said speculated that the crash occurred the globe. Youm-e-Takbeer is not said. at inflated rates for the construc- the government had given him the owing to bad weather, the exact only a symbol of bravery of the Prime Minister Sharif said the tion of the Idamalayar dam in Iduk- responsibility as he was a senior cause is yet to be identified. Since Pakistani nation, it was also a journey of national economic de- ki district, and had sentenced him politician. He had headed the For- the spring climbing expedition falls strong message to the enemies that velopment was going on with fast to a year in jail. Pillai was the ward Community Board in the in April and May, the Lukla air- aggressors against Pakistan would pace and “just like nuclear explo- state’s power minister at the time previous Congress-led United port has been receiving up to 105 meet an exemplary fate. He said sion, Pakistan will also carry out the contracts were awarded. The Democratic Front government too, flights in a single day. Around 40 some 19 years ago, when the Paki- an economic explosion. The whole person who fought the case against and the position had carried cabi- expedition teams comprising 371 stan Muslim League government world believed in such possibili- Pillai then was VS Achuthanandan, net rank then as well. He said he climbers from various countries decided to carry out nuclear tests, ties,” he said. He said CPEC was a veteran leader of the Communist did not know why the government have taken the permit to scale the it had been facing numerous chal- mix of various projects which Party of India (Marxist), while one had not extended the same cabinet world's highest peak this season. lenges. On one side, it had been would usher a new era of prosper- of the judges who sent Pillai to jail rank to the chairman of the Sched- (BBC) facing economic threats while on ity. The prime minister viewed that was P Sathasivam, now the state’s uled Caste / Schedule Tribe com- the other hand it was being dubbed Pakistan’s nuclear programme cre- governor. But aside from the coin- mission. Pillai told mediapersons as un unforgiveable offense. ated balance of power in South Asia cidence of it all, Pillai’s appoint- the cabinet rank would not cost Plea in SC “The Muslim League leader- just becoming a symbol of peace ment has also given rise to ques- the state exchequer much as he ship accepted the challenges bank- as the smaller states in the region tions about the state government’s would not be taking a salary, nor ing upon Allah and public support also heaved a sigh of relief. priorities regarding backward and would he be availing of telephone for early and kept the national dignity su- Sharif said Pakistan’s econom- forward communities, and its stand and other facilities. “I will be need- DHAKA- Bangladesh on Sunday he said, adding the new location (May 28) reinstalled a controver- was at the back of the court where preme. The nation is also thankful ic stability was also a symbol of on corruption. ing only four people, three of to the personalities who showed regional prosperity and Pakistan ‘Why the disparity?’ whom are currently already em- govt decision sial statue deemed un-Islamic by hardly anyone could see it. Islam- religious hardliners on the grounds ist groups held months of mass bravery at that time and played wanted other states from not only Dalit activist Sunny M ployed with the state govern- their role to make Pakistan an atom- South Asia but others also to join Kapikad told Scroll.in that heads ment,” he added. Pillai had on Jadhav’s of the Supreme Court, just days protests demanding the statue be after its removal had sparked an- destroyed and replaced with a ic power,” he remarked. The prime the race to collectively bring pros- of backward community boards in switched to the Left Democratic minister said Youm-e-Takbeer was perity in the region. He viewed that Kerala do not enjoy cabinet rank Front ahead of Assembly elections gry protests by secular groups. Koran. Prime Minister Sheikh Ha- appeal The sculpture of a blindfolded, sina, who leads the secular Awami in fact the declaration of the fact justice and equal opportunities for while the Forward Community in the state last year. Kanam Ra- that the nations always head for- economic development could only Board chairman does. He added jendran, state secretary of the sari-clad woman holding scales had League party, initially kept her dis- been in place for less than six tance from the row. But she broke ward through a vision and stead- guarantee peace in the region. that this shows where the govern- Communist Party of India, a part- ISLAMABAD: The Supreme fastness. The nations’ future is (Dwan) ment’s priorities lie. “To be in ner in the coalition, said Pillai and Court was asked through a peti- months when authorities removed her silence last month to describe power, Communists and the Con- his party had then been promised tion filed on Saturday to order the it early Friday under pressure from the statue as "ridiculous" after in- gress require the forward commu- the same benefits they had enjoyed federal government to ensure an hardliners, who said it was based viting top Islamist leaders to her nities’ support and they never fail with the Congress-led government. early decision under the domestic on the Greek goddess of justice. residence. Lata Mangeskar praises PM to appease these sections when- Government’s take laws of Pakistan on any pending Its removal from the front pla- Mufti Faiz Ullah, a senior lead- ever it is required,” he said. An of- Rejecting the allegation that appeal by Indian spy Kulbhushan za of Bangladesh's top court trig- er of hardline group Hefazat-e-Is- Modi for naming India’s ficial with the State Scheduled the government was appeasing Jadhav. The petition was moved gered violent clashes between po- lam, threatened retaliation over the Caste / Tribe Welfare Board con- certain communities, MA Baby, a by former senate chairman Advo- lice and secular groups, who saw latest location. longest bridge after Hazarika firmed that their chairman does not politburo member of the Commu- cate Farooq Naek on behalf of the move as further evidence of "It should be removed imme- enjoy cabinet rank. Kapikad said, nist Party of India (Marxist), told Muzamil Ali, a lawyer by profes- creeping Islamisation in the offi- diately. Otherwise our movement Legendary singer Lata Mangeskar on Saturday praised Prime Minisiter “When the majority of backward Scroll.in, “Be it forward or back- sion. The petitioner requested the cially secular country. But the will not stop," he told AFP. Ana- Narendra Modi for naming the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge of Assam after Supreme Court to order the imme- sculpture's creator Mrinal Haque, lysts say Hasina's stand on the renowned Assamese music legend Bhupen Hazarika. Dr. Bhupen Haz- communities are facing negligence, ward communities, the government diate execution of the Indian spy these politicians put forward the- is duty-bound to take care of the who had accused authorities of statue was part of efforts to woo arika was a brilliant artist. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ingaurated if he failed to get his capital pun- the mesmerising Dhola-Sadiya Bridge which is named after Bhupen ories that a large number of for- welfare and genuine interests of all ishment overturned. Jadhav was bowing to hardline groups, said he Islamists and conservative rural ward community members are sections of society, irrespective of taken into custody in Balochistan was asked to reinstall the statue at voters, before a general election Hazarika. Only the Indian Government is the one which honours Indian struggling to ‘exist’.” He added that caste, creed, religion and region.” in March 2016. He later confessed a different location on the court expected next year. Bangladesh has artists. As an , I honour the Indian Government,? Mangeskar tweeted in if a study were to be conducted, Baby put the cabinet rank for Pil- to his association with India’s Re- grounds. "We have just placed the experienced increasing tensions Hindi. Prime Minster Modi inaugurated the country's longest bridge the myth of the struggling majori- lai down to the politician’s senior- search and Analysis Wing (RAW) sculpture in front of the Annex between hardliners and secularists over Brahmaputra River, the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge in Tinsukia district. ty would be busted. Earlier this ity. “Pillai is a very senior politi- and his involvement in espionage Building of the Supreme Court," in recent years, with a number of The Dhola-Sadiya bridge connects Assam with Arunachal Pradesh. month, Tourism Minister Kadaka- cian. That could be the only rea- and fomenting terrorism in Paki- Haque told AFP on Sunday. "I atheist bloggers, religious minori- He said that the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge will usher economic change mpally Surendran had said that son for the present decision,” he stan. wasn't given any clarification but ties and foreigners murdered by across the northeast region. Brahmins were among Kerala’s said. (SCROLL) (Tribune) was only ordered to relocate it," extremists. (AFP) (AP) MONDAY . MAY 29, 2017 AFGHANISTAN TIMES News-in-Brief Egypt hits Libyan terror camps again after attack kills 29 Copts

Egypt launched a fresh wave of sy meeting. Mr Kushner's involve- air strikes against Libyan terror- ment in the proposed back chan- ist bases on Saturday in response nel was first reported by The to the killing of 29 Coptic Chris- Washington Post, which said he tians south of Cairo, with a warn- proposed using Russian diplomat- After S yr ia , ing of further retaliation possi- ic facilities for the discussions, ble. The airstrikes follow six apparently to make them more dif- bombing raids in Libya that hit ficult to monitor. The newspaper M exico is n ow th e the north-eastern coastal town of cited anonymous US officials who Derna on Friday, with Cairo offi- were briefed on intelligence reports cials saying bombs struck terror- on intercepted Russian communi- ist training camps of the Shura cations. The Post reported Mr wor ld’s dea dliest Council, aligned with al-Qaida. Kislyak was taken aback by the Pictures from Derna on so- suggestion of allowing an Ameri- cial media showed devastated can to use Russian communica- con flict zon e buildings but there were no reli- tions gear at its embassy or consu- able casualty numbers. The sav- late — a proposal that would have agery of the attack on the Copts, carried security risks for Moscow 'Mexico is a conflict marked by the absence of with at least two children, aged as well as the Trump team. Ac- artillery, tanks or combat aviation' two and four, among the dead, cording to the person familiar with has shocked Egypt. The Copts the Kushner meeting, the Trump had been travelling to the monas- team eventually felt there was no Mexico has surpassed Iraq and spot, with the number of deaths in tery of St Samuel the Confessor, need for a back channel once Rex Afghanistan to become the world’s war falling by more than a third 85 miles south of Cairo, when Tillerson was confirmed as secre- second-most deadly conflict zone since last year. Overall, the num- their small convoy was halted on tary of state, which took place 1 after Syria, according to a study of ber of people killed in armed con- a desert road by up to 10 gunmen Jared Kushner's alleged back chan- side during the conversation, those ing administration's options with February. wars around the globe. The num- flicts around the world fell slight- dressed as soldiers, who then nel links to Russia would have things we don't know. "But I can't Russia as it was developing its The team decided to commu- ber of fatalities from the expand- ly last year to 157,000, from opened fire. Although Egyptian been considered spying if they had keep out of my mind the thought Syria policy, a person familiar with nicate with Moscow through more ing war among Mexico’s criminal 167,000 in 2015. Yet the figure re- forces targeted an al-Qaida affili- been set up by an intelligence of- that, if an American intelligence the discussions told The Associ- official channels. Mr Flynn served cartels grew to 23,000 in 2016, mains high compared with the pre- ated group, the responsibility for ficer, George W Bush's former CIA officer had done anything like this, ated Press. The intent was to con- briefly as Trump's national secu- compared with 17,000 in Afghan- vious decade and the number of the attack was claimed by Islam- director has said. we'd consider it espionage." Mr nect Mr Trump's chief national rity adviser before being fired in istan and 16,000 in Iraq, according civilians displaced by war contin- ic State, which has carried out Speaking on MSNBC's The Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in- security adviser at the time, February. Officials said he misled to the annual Armed Conflict Sur- ued to rise, according to the sur- previous atrocities against Last Word, John McLaughlan said law and a top White House advis- Michael Flynn, with Russian mil- Vice President Mike Pence about vey by the International Institute vey. Chipman and the report’s au- Egypt’s Copts. Libyan sources the first reaction among the intelli- er, reportedly proposed a secret itary leaders, the source said. whether he and the ambassador had for Strategic Studies. That level of thors were downbeat about the say Egypt has indicated more at- gence community would be to ask: back channel between the Kremiln Russia, a pivotal player in discussed US sanctions against bloodshed was all the more sur- prospects for reducing these lev- tacks, possibly including ground- "Is this a prank?" Mr McLaugh- and the Trump transition team Syria, has backed Syrian President Russia in a phone call. Mr Kush- prising, because “Mexico is a con- els of violence on several counts. strikes, are being considered by lan said, providing the allegations during a meeting with the Russian Bashar al-Assad, often at the ex- ner is now reportedly a focus of flict marked by the absence of ar- One is that conflicts are becoming Cairo. were true: "I don’t want to over- ambassador to the US in Decem- pense of civilians during a long civil the ongoing investigation into Rus- tillery, tanks or combat aviation,” more urban, with siege warfare in- (CNN) state because obviously there is a ber. Mr Kushner spoke with Am- war. The White House did not ac- sian collusion in Mr Trump's elec- IISS director general John Chip- creasingly common, according to lot we don’t know. We don’t know bassador Sergey Kislyak about knowledge the meeting or Mr tion campaign over the meetings man said in remarks at the survey’s the survey. That’s especially true the exact content of the conversa- creating that line of communica- Kushner's attendance until March. he had with Mr Kislyak and a launch in London on Tuesday. Vir- in Syria, where that approach ‘They treat tion. We don't know the objective tion to facilitate sensitive discus- At the time, a White House offi- Russian banker. tually all of those deaths were proved brutally effective for the that was stated from the Kushner sions aimed at exploring the incom- cial dismissed it as a brief courte- (AP) caused by small arms. The largest regime of President Bashar al-As- everyone like number of fatalities occurred in sad in Aleppo. A second reason is Mexican states that have become that as new conflicts emerge, old “key battlegrounds for control be- ones tend not to get resolved but criminals’: Turkish military says tween competing, increasingly rather subside into a “simmering” fragmented cartels,” he said, with state, capable of boiling over again US asylum violence flaring as gangs try to clear at any moment. Chipman cited kills 13 Kurdish areas of rivals so they can monop- Turkey’s more than three-decade- olize drug trafficking routes. old battle with the Kurdistan fails reporter The Middle East in general and Workers’ Party, or PKK, which militants in Syria in particular remained the exploded again last year into an fleeing most lethal regions on earth, with urbanized insurgency that killed the nearly six-year-old-Syrian con- 3,000 people. That was the high- northern Iraq flict claiming a further 50,000 lives. est annual death count from the Mexico That brings the total number of conflict since 1997, and a dramatic When Mexican journalist Mar- deaths during the civil and proxy increase from near peace of recent tín Méndez Pineda walked across war to an estimated 290,000, al- years. The low-level war in East- the border bridge to El Paso in Climate change: most three times the number killed ern Ukraine also looks like falling February, he thought he would in Bosnia, in the early 1990s. Sub- into this “simmering” category, finally be safe. After months of Saharan Africa was a relative bright Chipman warned. (Independent) threats and harassment from cor- rupt police officers which forced Trump keeps world him to abandon his job and fam- ily in Acapulco, Méndez sought Burma’s Muslims asylum in the US. The 26-year- waiting on Paris deal old reporter thought the US would protect him, given the Donald Trump has said he will on the Paris agreement puts him at face restrictions on unprecedented wave of deadly decide whether to pull out of a key odds with other members of the violence against the press in climate change deal in the next G7. What is the Paris accord? Mexico, which the country’s week, having apparently shrugged The Paris deal is the world's where to pray during government seems unable or un- off pressure from US allies in re- first comprehensive climate agree- willing to curtail. He was wrong. cent days. The US president tweet- ment, set out in 2015, with the aim Ramadan: Rights group Méndez was detained for over a ed he would make his "final deci- of keeping the global average rise hundred days in overcrowded sion" on the Paris accord after his in temperatures below 2C. But it custody centres, shackled like a Turkey's military killed 13 mem- late on Saturday, the military said return to Washington. Mr Trump came into force only after being criminal and subjected to hateful bers of the militant Kurdistan warplanes had killed another 10 left the G7 summit in Sicily on ratified by 55 countries, which taunts from security guards. Workers Party (PKK) in air strikes PKK militants. Saturday without reaffirming his between them produce 55% of glo- Eventually, he abandoned his in northern Iraq on Sunday, the The PKK, which has carried commitment to the accord, unlike bal carbon emissions. Barack asylum claim and returned to military said in a statement. out a three-decade insurgency in the other six world leaders in at- Obama signed the US up in Sep- Mexico after he was twice de- The warplanes struck seven southeast Turkey, has camps in the tendance. He previously threat- tember 2016, and members of the nied bail in the US, and told that PKK targets in the Avasin-Basy- mountains of northern Iraq, near ened to pull out. Mr Trump, who G7 are keen for the US to continue he faced at least another year held an region of northern Iraq, and the Turkish border. has called climate change "a hoax" to back it, not least because the in grim conditions. “The guards killed militants believed to be pre- It is considered a terrorist on occasion, has reportedly indi- country is the second largest emit- didn’t care why I was there, what paring for an attack, the military group by Turkey, the United cated this is still his position to ter of greenhouse gasses after Chi- I was running from, they treat said. In a separate air strike in Tur- States and the European Union. key members of his inner circle. na. everyone like criminals. I key's southeastern province of Van (Reuters) The uncertainty over his position (BBC) couldn’t take it,” Méndez told the Guardian. (Theguardian) British Airways French WHO says India hostage freed disruption continues reports cases of in Congo - after IT failure Zika virus Macron’s Dozens of services were cancelled way north, with travellers queu- AS Ramadan begins, Muslims in tionalist groups claim that the on Sunday morning and passen- ing out of the doors and on to the Burma are increasingly restricted shutdowns are lawful as madrassa office gers have been warned not to go to platform for the 9am train to Ed- in where they can pray or study leaders signed a document in Oc- the airport without rebooking or inburgh. Those that could not get their faith, points out Human tober 2015 agreeing not to use the A French national who had been checking their flight status. The on ran to the doors of the next ser- Rights Watch (HRW). Using Tha- schools for prayer. But residents kidnapped at the start of March problem has been caused by a vice at 9.30am when the platform keta Township in Rangoon as a of Thaketa Township told HRW in Democratic Republic of Con- worldwide systems failure, be- was announced, but were met on case study, Richard Weir, a Fellow that for several years they’ve re- go has been freed, according to a lieved to have been caused by a boarding with a warning from the in the Asia Division of HRW, high- ceived permission to pray there statement from the office of power supply issue, which caused train guard that seats could not be lights the pressure on the Muslim during Ramadan. That, however, French President Emmanuel chaos in the London terminals on guaranteed for all passengers. BA community after the closure of the is no longer an option and Mus- Macron. Saturday. A Heathrow spokes- has said it is aiming to operate a township’s two Islamic schools, lims are being forced to go further "The president of the repub- woman said: “Following a world- “near normal schedule” at Gatwick or madrassas. Both establishments afield to overcrowded mosques – lic welcomes the news of the lib- wide British Airways’ IT system and the “majority of services” from were chained shut late last month the closest is a 30-minute walk eration of our compatriot kid- issue yesterday, delays and can- Heathrow. Experts predict the dis- after a Buddhist ultranationalist away – with staggered prayer ses- napped on March 1 in the east of cellations of British Airways ruption could continue for several mob pressured authorities to close sions to accommodate everyone. Democratic Republic of Congo," flights are expected today. “Prior days and the airline is facing huge them. At the time, HRW called for “It has been a long time since we Macron's statement said. to travelling to the airport, all Brit- compensation costs after all its the Burmese government to imme- have been able to build new Macron also thanked the ish Airways passengers who are flights from the two airports were diately reopen the schools, label- mosques in this country,” said Congo authorities for their work due to fly today should check the cancelled on Saturday. Passengers ling the move a “craven capitula- Kyaw Khin, head of a national in helping to free the hostage. status of their flight. “All passen- lucky enough to be aboard one of tion to mob demands.” Despite Muslim group. “Others are de- Earlier in March, France had gers whose flights were cancelled the few flights taking off on Satur- India has reported cases of the Zika jarat - while answering a question these appeals, the schools have not stroyed in violence, and some are said that a group of workers had yesterday should not travel to the day later found their hold luggage virus, the World Health Organiza- in India's parliament. been allowed to reopen and some closed by the government.” The been kidnapped at a mine run by airport today unless they have al- had not made it onto the plane with tion said, adding that efforts should "These findings suggest low fear they will suffer the fate of oth- Burmese government has placed Banro Corp (BAA.TO). ready rebooked onto another them. Terry Page, 28, from Lon- be made to strengthen surveillance. level transmission of Zika virus er madrassas shut by the authori- harsh restrictions on the construc- (Reuters) flight.” There were more than 30 don, flew from Heathrow to Fort The WHO said that on May 15 and new cases may occur in the ties, and stay closed. Wunna Shwe, tion or renovation of religious BA cancellations at Heathrow by Worth, Texas, where he and “about India's health ministry reported future," the WHO said in the state- joint secretary general of the Is- structures, as well as limits on the 9am on Sunday and delays of 50” others were told they would three confirmed cases from the ment on its website. "Zika virus is lamic Religious Affairs Council, practice of religion. These are just around 30 minutes to their flights have to wait until Monday before western state of Gujarat. Cases known to be circulating in South- told HRW that closures like this some of the elements of the sys- from Gatwick. London’s Kings being reunited with their bags, he were detected during testing in East Asia Region and these find- are not uncommon in Burma, and temic discrimination faced by Cross railway station was packed told the Press Association. February and November last year, ings do not change the global risk that they also affect other minori- Muslims in the country. HRW with people trying to make their (AP) while one was detected in January assessment." In its most recent ty religious groups, such as Chris- called on the government “to al- this year, according to the state- outbreak, Zika, which is mainly a tians. “According to our experience, low all people in Burma to wor- ment, which was released on Fri- mosquito-borne disease, was iden- madrassas that are sealed or closed ship freely, including by reopen- day but did not gain public atten- tified in Brazil in 2015 and has been almost never open again,” Shwe ing religious schools and protect- tion until Saturday. A federal health spreading globally. said. Muslims make up a tiny mi- ing minorities from mobs.” Until ministry official said states were When the virus infects a preg- nority in the Buddhist-majority that happens, the people of Tha- following standard protocols and nant woman, it can cause a variety nation, with the percentage esti- keta Township will spend this there was "nothing to worry" of birth defects including micro- mated to be in the lower single dig- Ramadan walking several hours about. The ministry had in March cephaly, where the baby's head is its. But as the community grows, every day just to make it to daily cited one confirmed case of Zika - abnormally small. the places to safely practice their prayers. from January of this year in Gu- (Telegraph) faith diminish. Buddhist ultrana- (Asiancorrespondent) MONDAY. MAY 29, 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

AFGHANISTAN TIMES Editor: Mansoor Faizy rump's Phone No: +93-797070563 America E-mail: [email protected] may Email: [email protected] seem like a www.afghanistantimes.af cruel new Photojournalist: M. Sadiq Yusufi psychology Advisory editorial board experiment but Saduddin Shpoon, Dr. Sharif Fayez, Dr. Sultana Parvanta, Dr. Sharifa Sharif, US society has Dr. Omar Zakhilwal, Setara Delawari, Ahmad Takal, Saboor Sarir been sick for Graphic-Designers: quite some Edriss Akbari, Bilal Yusufi and Basir Qazizada time. Mar ket i ng & Adver t i si ng: Mohammad Parwiz Arian, 0708954626, 0778894038 tagonisms - not to mention the common predicament of being Mailing address: P.O. Box: 371, Kabul, Afghanistan saddled with eternal debt in Our Bank Accounts: Azizi Bank: 000101100258091 / 000101200895656 exchange for education and other services - can take a con- Printed at Afghanistan Times Printing Press siderable mental toll. In my own experience as a US citizen born and raised in The constitution says the country, I find it curious, to say the least, that out of the Article 154: 60-plus nations I've since trav- Article One Hundred Fifty-Four: The wealth of the President, Vice- elled and resided in, the home- land is the only place I've ever Presidents, Ministers, members of the Supreme Court as well as the experienced acute panic attacks Attorney General, shall be registered, reviewed and published prior to - some of them lasting several and after their term of office by an organ established by law. By Belen Fernandez ment. months. Barack Obama's secret "kill phone screen. Downright crazy? Since the ascent to power of list" comes to mind, as do There's no time like the Lest we despair, a thriving US President Donald Trump, George W Bush's gleeful esca- present to dismantle the endur- American pharmaceutical in- two discussion topics have pades in Afghanistan and Iraq, ing stigma attached to discus- dustry is ever on hand to en- become increasingly popular: Bill Clinton's bombing of the sions of mental illness in order sure that egregious over-pre- whether or not the man is in- former Yugoslavia, George H W to more profoundly consider scription remains the name of sane and whether or not it's ap- Bush's barbaric invasion of the current president in histori- the game and that everything propriate to talk about whether Panama, and every other form co-psychological context. that can be pathologised will or not the man is insane. of US-backed slaughter and It's hardly far-fetched to be - except, of course, the so- While many psychiatrists, global plunder that have char- speculate that, in a profit-driv- ciopolitical context fuelling mental health workers and me- acterised imperial policy from en age of institutionalised dis- psychological and other mala- dia figures have abided by the the get-go. Call it bipartisan in- traction, empathy might find it- dies and guaranteeing their idea that it is unethical to pub- sanity, a pre-existing condition self in rather short supply. This profitable exploitation. licly debate the head of state's that constitutes one of the very means, once again, that it's not Now, with the advent of mental soundness, others view foundations of the US political only Trump who may be suf- Trump - who feels no need to Undoubtedly, the southern Kandahar province have been remained relative- the taboo as reckless. In an in- establishment. fering from "a profound inabil- even pretend to disguise his ly safe over the past few years, at a time even provinces around it have not terview with The Independent, Super-sized symptom ity to empathise", though he's war on reality behind pseudo- been safe from the Taliban’s resurgence. Once, the province was known as for example, Yale University's Indeed, although many res- certainly better equipped to act civilised discourse - an already Dr Bandy Lee cited Trump's idents of Trump's America may on it. depressing situation has be- a hub of the Taliban’s activity, but ground situation changed as security im- "taunting of North Korea" and fear themselves the subject of Mental tolls come more overtly so. proved in the recent years under the grip of famous and anti-Taliban com- spontaneous bombing of Syr- a cruel new psychology exper- As part of an evolving back- Each new outburst against mander, General Abdul Raziq, the police chief and a regional commander. ia as indications that his "in- iment, the fact is that US soci- drop of popular alienation from Mexicans, Muslims, "so- called" judges and the other But, situation has been deteriorating, as the Taliban insurgents making all stability, unpredictability and ety has been sick for quite some reality, empathy voids are no impulsivity … point to danger- time - with Trump merely con- doubt catchy music to the ears nemeses that populate the pres- out efforts to once again turn Kandahar as one of their safest place. Insur- ousness due to mental impair- stituting the latest - and super- of those in the business of idential tweets is liable to make gents seem to be focusing again on the province. Kandahar served as the ment." sized - symptom of this psy- dropping bombs and engaging even those folks most mental- Taliban founder’s seat of power when the movement controlled Afghani- In February, The New York chological malaise. in other forms of high-level so- ly secure in their existence be- gin to fear a descent into in- stan. To regain control of some parts of the province, Taliban insurgents Times ran a letter to the editor For starters, the unrelenting ciopathic behaviour. signed by 35 mental health pro- capitalism to which the US is For an example of the latter sanity. had carried out deadliest attack against Afghan security forces, which killed fessionals concerned that wedded is anything but con- category, recall the time a cer- It seems, then, that there's dozens, and wounded some others. In the recent attack, eighteen Afghan Trump's "words and behaviour ducive to collective mental sta- tain prominent US politician no time like the present to dis- National Army (ANA) troops were killed and 16 others wounded after hun- suggest a profound inability to bility, entailing as it does a vi- argued that the "price" of kill- mantle the enduring stigma at- cious pursuit of profit at the tached to discussions of men- dreds of Taliban gunmen stormed their base in Zangitan area of the Shah empathise". ing half a million Iraqi children Such traits, the authors expense of human wellbeing. via sanctions for achieving US tal illness in order to more pro- Walikot district. Surely, Taliban insurgents also received casualties. This note, cause people to "distort Tied up in the capitalist ap- policy objectives was "worth foundly consider the current heart-wrenching incident took place on Friday, while on Wednesday in an- reality to suit their psycholog- proach is an emphasis on indi- it" (hint: it wasn't Donald president in historico-psycho- other attack by the Taliban insurgents; at least 13 security forces were killed. ical state, attacking facts and vidual success that inevitably Trump). logical context. erodes communal bonds, Because to ignore the big- The incident occurred in Maiwand district of the province after dozens of those who convey them". And while the health of the This diagnosis would ap- which of course further deteri- American defence industry is ger picture would be downright insurgents attacked a military base. Tow big attacks in single week have pear to be pretty spot-on, as orate in accordance with the generally treated as a national crazy. raised many eyebrows. Some believes that there is a security failure, while anyone can tell from a quick ongoing technological on- priority, the same can't be said Belen Fernandez is the au- some says that the National Unity Government (NUG) is not paying heed glance at the president's Twit- slaught. for the health of sectors of the thor of The Imperial Messen- ter account. The permeation of exist- ger: Thomas Friedman at Work, to the province. However, Gen. Raziq, the most powerful security com- domestic population, which al- But while Trump's unregu- ence with attention-obliterating ternately assume the position published by Verso. She is a mander in southern Afghanistan, has criticized the central government in lated comportment tends to electronic devices results in a of collateral casualty or de fac- contributing editor at Jacobin Kabul over the growing insecurity in the province. Briefing a gathering, he endow him with an aura of sin- situation in which physical hu- to enemy in the government's magazine. said that some political figures within the NUG are trying to destabilize gularly unhinged dangerous- man interaction - by most ac- various wars on black people, The views expressed in this ness, it's worth recalling that counts a prerequisite for men- poor people, immigrants, article are the author's own and Kandahar like neighboring Helmand and Uruzgan provinces. His remark his presidential predecessors tal soundness - is increasingly healthcare, and so forth. do not necessarily reflect Al generates a mindset that growing insecurity in the province is not by acci- weren't exactly racking up any replaced by interaction be- For many Americans, hav- Jazeera's editorial policy. dent, rather there are some elements inside the government who are highly points in the empathy depart- tween oneself and one's mobile ing to contend with such an- (Al Jazeera) involved in the process of destabilization. Such ignoring could be too deadly at the future. However, Raziq’s remark did not immediately elicit a response from authorities in Kabul—but wish it could. If such uncertainty prevails, the people’s trust toward government institutions would further erode. By no stretch of the imagination, Afghanistan deserving of the title of a coun- try free from terror and free from militant outfits. This is possible; it needs a clear mechanism, strong intention and political will. The government has to lesson to everyone. Raziq’s concerns have to be taken seriously. He is not taking about privileges, but a threat that jeopardizing the so-call peace in the province, and could be proven deadliest in the future for the whole country. We are already in war, Taliban and other militant outfits even don’t show mercy on the holy month of Ramada, as a Taliban suicide car bomber killed 18 in Khost province on Saturday. Afghanistan is going through un- certain situation, and hard to evaluate. Peace efforts would lead to nowhere, if security officials concerns are not heard. Taking a look at the current structure of the problems, it is imperative for NUG to come up to the fore with a comprehensive security diagram aimed at dashing to ground the evil designs of the Taliban and other militant outfits. 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 29, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

By Richard Javad Heydarian "It would not be any different from what President [Ferdi- nand] Marcos did," declared Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte shortly after declaring martial law across the restive island of Mindanao. "I'd be harsh," he warned. The tough-talking Filipino president was on a five-day trip to Moscow, when news broke out that the Maute, an armed group affiliated with the Islam- ic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), laid siege to the city of Marawi, the By Peter Hawkins biggest urban centre in the dren will not be able to achieve a multiple system - we some- Muslim-majority provinces of Even though 200,000 people - their potential, their hopes, times see triple or even quadru- the Philippines. 85,000 of them children - con- their dreams and aspirations. ple shifts in schools. At first, the Philippine mili- tinue to be trapped in the vio- But a report on "The Costs Iraqi students, who have tary tried to play down the sit- lence raging in west Mosul's and Benefits of Education" re- very limited learning opportu- uation by claiming that every- Old City area, work is ongoing cently released by the Iraqi nities outside school, are hav- thing was under control. Yet, to re-open 47 schools in the Ministry of Education with the ing as little as 10 contact hours as hours went by, it became in- areas of west Mosul that were support of UNICEF, notes that of interaction with their teach- creasingly clear that the armed operation. A few days earlier, extremist ideology and mobili- flects the inability of the gov- retaken from the Islamic State Iraq spent only 5.7 per cent of ers on average a week, and this group was far from subdued, the Philippine military staged a sation. ernment to pre-empt and effec- of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, its government expenditure on lack of contact is depriving as it was still rampaging across failed raid on a safe house in a Upon his hasty return, Du- tively address the conflict in also known as ISIS) by Iraqi education in the 2015-16 school them of quality education. Only the city, taking a Christian bid to capture Isnilon Hapilon, terte upped the ante by sug- Mindanao, which has provid- forces. year, which puts the country on 70 per cent of the children who priest and several civilians hos- the leader of the more known gesting he may place, if need- ed a hospitable environment for I visited east Mosul, which the bottom rank of Middle East attend the evening shift in their tage, and vowing to declare an Abu Sayyaf group, which is ed, the entire country under extremist ideology and mobili- was fully recaptured by Iraqi countries in any given year. school can pass the national Islamic State "Wilayat" (prov- also affiliated with ISIL. Hapi- martial law to "protect and pre- sation. forces in January this year, af- The report states that a rel- assessment. ince) in Mindanao. lon is on the FBI's most want- serve the Filipino nation". The Throughout his first year in ter the violence wound down. I atively large gender gap re- Quality education is not en- It will likely take weeks, if ed list and is largely seen as a announcement provoked a flur- office, the Filipino leader ob- spoke to many parents; their mains in Iraq's education sys- tirely about teaching children not months, before the Philip- prospective leader of a pro- ry of criticisms, including from sessively pursued a brutal cam- one request was for schools to tem and adds that children from technical skills; it's also about pine government takes control posed "Caliphate" in Southeast leading legislators, who argued paign against illegal drugs, re-open and for their children poor families are more likely to making sure that they learn life of the situation since the on- Asia. that a nationwide Martial Law which has come under heavy to finally continue their educa- be out of school compared with skills and values. It serves the going violence has already The extremists were likely is a step too far. criticism by Western countries tion after being deprived of it children from well-off families. social function of cultivating a forced thousands to flee Ma- also emboldened by the fact Others wondered why Du- and human rights groups. Du- for so long. According to the report, only generation that is ready to re- rawi to seek refuge elsewhere. that not only the president, but terte didn't resort to milder con- terte also prioritised peace ne- Since then, many schools half of Iraq's internally dis- build a peaceful Iraq. Educa- The whole episode rekin- also his key cabinet members, stitutional measures, such as gotiations with communist in east Mosul are reopened with placed children have access to tion has been identified as one dled horrific memories of the including National Security declaring a state of lawlessness rebels over talks with the much remarkable success. Although school and the cost to Iraq's of the key conditions for sus- bloody clashes in Zamboanga Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, or emergency, which would more powerful Islamist insur- many challenges remain for economy of having so many tainable peace and reconcilia- city in 2013, when a splinter fac- were in Moscow to secure a have still allowed him to effec- gents, particularly the Moro families living in this section of children out of school is rough- tion within societies. Just one tion of the Moro National Lib- series of defence and trade tively mobilise the military with Islamic Liberation Front. the city, more than 380,000 chil- ly $1bn in unrealised potential extra year of schooling can sig- eration Front, reportedly led by deals. maximum legal leeway. After months of strategic dren are now back in school. wages. nificantly reduce the probabili- leading Moro ideologue Nur Perturbed by the scale and Nonetheless, there are mul- flirtation with China and Rus- We have seen this enthusi- There is an urgent need to ty of a young person engaging Misuari, tried to lay siege on audacity of the attack, Duterte, tiple built-in safeguards in the sia, Duterte will now have to asm for education in the face increase investment in the in violent crimes. the Christian-majority city. who cut his Russia trip short, Philippine constitution against seek support from tried and of incredibly difficult circum- country's education sector if Iraq needs decentralised The prosperous port city of immediately declared all-out abuse of executive power. First tested allies such as the Unit- stances across Iraq: in Fallujah we do not want to lose one of and community-based man- Zamboanga was torn asunder martial law across Mindanao. of all, to implement martial law, ed States, which possesses and in Ramadi we have seen Iraq's key accomplishments, agement. This needs to be fa- by weeks-long clashes be- The Philippines' 1987 constitu- the president will have to im- high-grade intelligence, de- young children, girls holding namely being a leading coun- cilitated by school-based tween the rebels and the Phil- tion allows Filipino leaders to mediately get the approval of fence equipment and been a hands, step their way through try on education in the Middle grants and a curriculum that ippine military, which repeated- declare it only when there is a the Philippine Congress. Also, partner in counterterror opera- the debris of war to reach their East. This can be achieved encourages personal empower- ly pounded enemy positions "rebellion and invasion". the Supreme Court has the tions throughout decades. school. And even if there's no through a number of concrete ment and active citizenship as from both the sky and the Most likely the decision to mandate to nullify any martial Duterte may also have to re- electricity and it's dark in the steps: improving the efficien- well as facilitating quality learn- ground. Despite the military's declare martial law was based law declaration, if deemed un- visit his earlier threat to reject, classrooms, or there is not cy of the educational system; ing and employability. efforts, the rebels initially man- on an intelligence report sug- justified, within the first 60 days in light of disagreement on hu- enough space, Iraqi children providing more equitable ac- The cost of investing in aged to occupy several neigh- gesting that ISIL- affiliate of implementation. man rights issues, grants from and their teachers go to school cess to educational opportuni- Iraq's education will be high, bourhoods, take control of groups were planning coordi- Duterte's allies in the legis- the European Union, which has every morning. ties; investing more in teach- but the return of this invest- government buildings, and take nated attacks across the whole lature will be happy to get heavily invested in the Mind- Children tell us that they ers' training; rewriting the cur- ment will be immense. Peter hundreds of civilians hostage. region. Government officials through the martial law decla- anao peace process. see their school like a second ricula; and elevating the quali- Hawkins is the UNICEF Repre- Duterte, the first Filipino cited the troubling presence of ration in Mindanao, but ex- All of a sudden, the Philip- home, a place where they can ty of children's overall learning sentative in Iraq. He has more president from Mindanao, fac- foreign fighters among Maute tending emergency measures pines is grappling with the not only study but also play outcomes. The economic cost than 20 years of experience in es a similar, if not more menac- elements as an evidence of "in- across the country will likely spectre of ISIL and, for some, with their friends. Teachers of dropouts and grade repeti- the humanitarian and interna- ing, conundrum in Marawi, as vasion", a term that usually face stiff opposition. Marcosian authoritarianism. have told us how happy they tions that largely result from ac- tional development sector. He public pressure mounts on the applies to full-scale military as- Reassuringly, the Philippine Richard Javad Heydarian is are to be back in their class- ademic failure, accounts for al- previously worked in Afghani- government to address the sault by an invading foreign military, which has the task of a specialist in Asian geopoliti- rooms, and they have asked for most 20 per cent of the coun- stan, Pakistan, Ethiopia and Ni- growing threat posed by ex- army. protecting the Constitution, cal/economic affairs and author more books, more materials, try's education budget. geria. The views expressed in tremist groups that have Road to Perdition sought to assuage fears of a of Asia's New Battlefield: The more training. While we see Iraqi children this article are the author's own wrecked havoc across the is- Far from signifying renewed Marcosian dictator- USA, China, and the Struggle Just like teachers, Iraqi fam- lining up to go back to their and do not necessarily reflect land for decades. strength, Duterte's threat re- ship by immediately releasing for the Western Pacific. ilies are also committed to pro- classrooms, it is a fact that half Al Jazeera's editorial policy. A City on Fire flects the inability of the gov- a set of guidelines, which safe- The views expressed in this viding a good education to of the nation's schools are in Education Iraq Battle for Mo- The attacks by the Maute ernment to pre-empt and effec- guard basic political rights and article are the author's own and their children. They know that need of repair. Many schools sul Middle East group, also known as the Is- tively address the conflict in civil liberties of citizens. do not necessarily reflect Al without education, their chil- in Iraq are currently running on (Al Jazeera) lamic State of Lanao, were like- Mindanao, which has provid- Far from signifying Jazeera's editorial policy. ly an opportunistic revenge ed a hospitable environment for strength, Duterte's threat re- (Al Jazeera) LETTER TO THE EDITOR Ir a n : Th e r egim e’s n a t u r e Unemployment a n d it s ca lcu la t ion s steps forward and one step back- Unemployment is the core reason behind drug addiction in the country. A ward. And although ‘conservative’ number of youth across the country blamed government for ignoring them hawks remain the real mainstay of by not creating jobs for them. According to several youths, joblessness By Eyad Abu Shakra the storm. Now that Barack peted ‘reformists’ Rouhani and his the regime and the honest reflec- Obama has left office carrying with vice president Mohsen Jahangiri tion of its true nature, those infre- has forced young men into using drugs and migrating to foreign states. The It was interesting that the arrival his vision for the Middle East, a by the Iranian people during the quently described as ‘reformists’ government should pay serious heed to this issue and spare no efforts in a of the US president Donald Trump Republican administration is in last four years of his presidency, and ‘moderates’ are much closer in Riyadh in his first foreign visit charge. It is less convinced of Te- he would never had the courage to to the pulse of people, millions of bid to generate jobs for them. The young generations are playing key role since taking office should coincide hran’s leaders’ ‘moderation’, and raise the issues of corruption, un- whom do not agree with the re- in building or damaging of a country. with the election of Iran’s Presi- more doubtful that their policies employment, social problems, and gime’s political priorities. Here it dent Hassan Rouhani for a second of sectarian incitement, military claim to the champion of the poor, is worth recalling how the ‘Revo- The government should leave no stone unturned to create jobs for the term. intervention, and direct hegemony as he did during the televised de- lution devoured its children’. Hun- youths as they are the future maker of this war-turn country. Putting a glance Avoiding the temptation of adopted towards the Arab world bates. The fact is that Rouhani’s dreds, indeed, thousands of the Ira- to every development countries, you would find that all credits for that ‘conspiracy theory’, I reckon it are the best way to fight terror- tough talk was directed at the de nian revolution were liquidated. was very much in the interest of ism. facto presidential candidates of the Former foreign minister Sadegh progress directly goes to its youth’s indefatigable efforts. We want the the Iranian regime that Rouhani Hence, with the apparent end IRGC, which thanks to its institu- Ghotbzadeh was executed after government to pay serious attention in providing jobs for youths. easily defeated his opponent Ebra- of the American-Iranian honey- tions, interests, and money, net- being accused of plotting to over- him Raisi who is thought of as the moon, beginning with Syria, Te- work the real powerbase of Iran’s throw the Government and kill Omar Khan, Kabul, Afghanistan future ‘supreme guide’, given the hran’s political ‘kitchen’ felt in security system and its major Ayatollah Khomeini; Abolhassan change of leadership in Washing- need to balance out the two Irani- strike force. Banisadr, the first president after ton. Such a result reflects a wise an power blocs, although they are This actually means that the the 1979 revolution, had to flee the Letter to editor will be edited for policy, content and clarity. All letters must and tactful approach by the ‘mov- nothing but the two sides of one election campaign, just like ‘Irani- country after being impeached and have the writer’s name and address. You may send your letters to: ers and shakers’ in Tehran to inter- coin. With this in mind, the final an democracy’ itself, is flawed and is now living in exile in France. [email protected] nal as well as foreign policies. six presidential candidates were self-contradictory; since the pres- Even senior clerics, such as Grand Those ‘movers and shakers’ approved, while others were dis- ident does not rule … and the real Ayatollah Mohammad Kazem may be pretty extremist anti-Arab qualified including Mahmud Ah- ruler is neither the president nor a Shariatmadari and Grand Ayatol- and anti-West, but it doesn’t fol- madinejad, the former two-term candidate to be chosen through lah Hussein Mutazeri, suffered for low that they are stupid. Actually, president! elections. Despite this fact one has their opposition. And last but not Disclaimer: the opposite is true; as there are Of course, the ‘supreme guide’ to accept that Iran has gained in least, both a former prime minis- many smart and cultured individ- remains the real ruler of Iran, re- political savviness since 1979 with ter, Mir Hussein Mousavi, and a The views and opinions expressed in the articles are uals in the Iranian regime who are gardless of the attempts of its state the emergence of ‘pragmatists’ like former parliament speaker Mehdi those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views or skillful political and tactical oper- PR machine to promote a mirage Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, Karoubi, have been placed under ators and understand the limits of of democracy. Indeed, the unri- Mohammad Khatami, and later house arrest since the 2009 pro- opinions of the Afghanistan Times. adventures and open hostilities, valled position of the ‘supreme Hassan Rouhani, who have mas- democracy ‘Green Path of Hope thus, never hesitate to bend before guide’ is a fact even the much trum- tered the policy of taking a few Movement’. (Alarabiya) MONDAY. MAY 29, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES ‘M a n y in t l pr oblem s ca n ’t be Iraq Mosul r esolved wit h ou t R u ssia ’: offensive: Civilians F r en ch P r esid en t M a cr on ‘in grave Versailles,” he said, adding that the ing its commitment to the Minsk crisis can be resolved through a agreement – were touched upon danger’- UN comprehensive political approach. during this year’s G7 summit. The French president said that a While acknowledging the need to Normandy format meeting, includ- keep the sanctions in place and ing Russia, Ukraine, Germany, and even possibly expanding them, the France, should be held in the near- international leaders also stressed N-Korea est future to discuss the Ukrainian the importance of further cooper- conflict as well. ation with Moscow over interna- Macron said that “it is neces- tional issues such as terrorism. The leader sary to go forward with the imple- Russian president will arrive in mentation of the Minsk agree- Paris at the invitation of his French inspects ments,” which outline a roadmap counterpart on May 29 to discuss for peace for eastern Ukraine. a wide range of issues, including According to Macron, the international affairs and bilateral test-fire sanctions against Russia imposed relations. over the Ukraine crisis and Mos- This will be the first time Pu- French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the importance of cow’s alleged meddling in it must tin has met Macron after being of new dialogue with Russia in resolving certain international problems during remain in place until the situation elected as the French president on the G7 summit in Italy. The statement comes ahead of his meeting with is resolved. May 7, defeating Marine Le Pen Civilians are being hit hardest as are trapped in these neighbour- Vladimir Putin in Paris on Monday. “Many international problems The sanctions on Russia – in the second round of the elec- Iraq's military assault on Mosul hoods and districts are in grave anti-aircraft cannot be resolved without Russia,” Macron said, as cited by TASS. He which has repeatedly denied being tion. enters its final phase, the country's danger." The government an- stressed the necessity of talking to Moscow at a news conference after a party to the conflict, while stress- (RT) UN humanitarian relief coordina- nounced the recapture of eastern the two-day meeting of G7 leaders in Sicily, which wrapped up on tor says. Lise Grande told the BBC Mosul in January but the fight for weapon Saturday. The French leader noted that he will seek a “demanding dia- residents were in grave danger as complete control of the western logue” with Russia, but “that still means having dialogue.” Elaborating so-called Islamic State (IS) was di- half continues. Thousands of Iraqi North Korea's leader has recently on the particular issues that demand Russian participation, he empha- rectly targeting families. Many security forces, Kurdish Peshmer- inspected the test-fire of a new sized the situations in Syria and Ukraine – among the topics to be China says fighter people in the city are already fac- ga fighters, Sunni Arab tribesmen type of anti-aircraft guided weap- discussed during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in ing severe shortages of water and and Shia militiamen, assisted by on system, ordering its mass-pro- Paris. electricity. US-led coalition warplanes and duction and deployment to bolster “I am going to discuss the situation in Syria during the meeting in jets’ intercept of US Iraqi forces said they made gains military advisers, are involved in its air supremacy, Pyongyang's in a new assault on IS there on Sat- the offensive. Earlier this month, state media said Sunday. Kim urday. Troops say they made coalition officials estimated the Jong-un watched "the successful progress in a few hours as they number of militants in Mosul to test" organized by the Academy plane over South tried to drive the militants out of be fewer than 1,000 - compared of National Defence Science, with- the last remaining strongholds in with 3,500 to 6,000 militants in out revealing the date and location, Mosul's Old City they still con- and around the city before the of- (Yonhap) news agency reported, China Sea was ‘safe’ trol. Hundreds of thousands of ci- fensive began last October. citing the Korean Central News vilians have fled the northern city The UN has said the battle has Agency (KCNA) said since the offensive to reclaim it was left more than 8,000 civilians dead Kim told the Korean People's launched in October last year. Ms or wounded, but that figure only Army (KPA) officials and those Grande said that the next part of comprises people transferred to at the academy that the weapon the assault was going to be the hard- medical facilities. Iraq's military system's capability has been up- est. "...Civilians are going to be at does not release casualty figures, graded compared with last year in the most extreme risk they have but US Gen Joseph Votel told a terms of efficiency to detect and been during the entire campaign," Congressional hearing at the end track targets, as well as strike ac- she said. "We know that ISIL [IS] of March that at least 774 Iraqi curacy, according to the KCNA. is directly targeting families as they security personnel had been killed Kim previously guided the try to escape, we know that there and 4,600 wounded. More than test of an anti-air guided weapon Uzbekistan’s Senate are very limited stocks of food and 580,000 civilians have also been system in April 2016, and the lat- medicines, we know that there are displaced by the fighting, among est test appears to be focusing on approves amendments to severe shortages of water and elec- them 419,000 from western Mo- improving its surface-to-air guid- tricity. "All of the evidence points sul, the Iraqi authorities say. ed missiles deployed last year. to the fact that the civilians who (BBC) "Some defects in the weapon sys- law on constitutional court tem, discovered last year, were The Senate of the Oliy Majlis (up- old and the age limit for a judge - perfectly overcome to stand the per house of the Uzbek parlia- 70 years old. From now on, the test," Kim was quoted as saying ment) approved amendments to Cabinet of Ministers and the Hu- by the KCNA. "This weapon sys- the law ‘On the Constitutional man Rights Commissioner of the BEIJING- China Sunday (May Beijing also accused Washington of Donald Trump’s tem, whose operation capability Court of the Republic of Uzbeki- Oliy Majlis of the Republic of 28) denied the Pentagon's charge trespassing last week after it sailed has been thoroughly verified, stan’ at the plenary session, Uzbekistan (ombudsman) are en- that an encounter between Chinese a warship near a reef claimed by should be mass-produced to de- Trend’s correspondent reported. titled to submit questions to the fighters and a US surveillance plane Beijing in the South China Sea - ploy in all over the country like In particular, the terms of office Constitutional Court. over the South China Sea was "un- the "first freedom of navigation" Europe tour forests so as to completely spoil and the requirements for candidates Earlier, both houses of the parlia- safe and unprofessional". Tensions exercise under US President the enemy's wild dream to com- for judges are defined more clearly ment, speaker and chairman of the between the two economic super- Donald Trump. These actions "in- mand the air, boasting of air su- than in the previous law. More- houses of the parliament, the pres- powers have risen in recent years fringed on our sovereignty and se- premacy and weapon almighty." over, it is not allowed to elect the ident, MPs and senators, chairmen leaves leaders Kim also emphasized that the over the disputed waterway, which curity, endangering the safety of members of the Constitutional of the Supreme Court and Supreme China claims almost in full despite front-line personnel of both sides," North Korea should also pursue Court more than twice, while main- Economic Court, as well as prose- counter-claims from other Asian the defence ministry said in the the development of a "next gener- taining the current five-year term cutor general were entitled to sub- nations. Chinese J-10 warplanes statement. "The behaviour is the ation" anti-aircraft guided weapon of office. The law envisages an in- mit questions to the Constitution- strangely shaken system, according to the KCNA. intercepted a US Navy P-3 that root cause of the military security crease in the age limit of a candi- al Court. was operating in international air- problems in maritime and sky ar- The KCNA said Kim was ac- date for a judge from 30 to 35 years (Trend) space Wednesday, according to eas between US and China. "Chi- US president’s first visit to Europe memora- companied by Hwang Pyong-so, Pentagon spokesman Commander na's armed forces will resolutely director of the general political Gary Ross. The US deemed the perform their duties and resolute- ble for body-language battles and patchy bureau of the KPA, and Ri Yong- Turkmenistan says its gas move "unsafe and unprofession- ly safeguard our sovereignty and understanding of the bloc gil, vice chief of the KPA general al" and pledged to convey its con- security," it added. Beijing has rap- staff. (QNA) reserves total 50t cerns to the Chinese government. idly built up reefs in the South Chi- But the Chinese defence ministry na Sea into artificial islands capa- on Sunday said the Pentagon's ac- ble of hosting military planes. cubic meters count of the incident "was not in The United States has chal- Scores Total natural gas reserves of Turk- together with reserves of the re- accordance with the facts". "On lenged the annexation of these is- menistan are estimated at 50 tril- opened Garakel field. "Turkmeni- May 25, a US patrol plane carried lets and advocated a diplomatic lion cubic meters, head of the coun- stan seeks to contribute to global out reconnaissance activities in the settlement to disputes, arguing that dead as try’s Turkmengas state concern sustainable human development airspace southeast of Hong Kong, Beijing's actions threaten freedom Myrat Archayev said in a report by ensuring stable and reliable sup- China," it said in a statement on of navigation and overflight. The at an international gas congress plies of the most environmentally its website. "The Chinese military tensions come ahead of a major Philippine underway in Turkmenistan’s Ava- friendly hydrocarbons to consum- aircraft carried out identification in regional security summit in Sin- za. Turkmenistan’s proven natu- ers, promote energy efficiency and accordance with law. The opera- gapore this week. He crunched hands, shoved shoul- In his speech at Nato’s new head- military ral gas reserves account for about help reduce the impact on the en- tions were professional and safe." (AP) ders and struck poses. He scoffed quarters – the cost of which, he 10 percent of the world gas re- vironment," Archayev said in his chocolates, ignored protocol and tactfully observed, he had been serves, despite that the current lev- report. Turkmenistan is among the harangued heads of state. He de- considerate enough not to ques- battles el of gas production in the country main suppliers of natural gas in nied saying things he had said, then tion, even once – Trump bluntly accounts for only 2 percent of the Central Asia, currently being the Malaysia to tighten said things that showed he did not accused 23 of the 28 Nato mem- world gas production. According largest supplier of gas to China. understand. It may, mercifully, bers of not paying their way. He Islamists to an audit held by the UK’s The report said that Turkmenistan, have passed off without apocalyp- linked terrorism and immigration Gaffney, Cline & Associates, re- thanks to its favorable geopoliti- security at borders with tic mishap, but Donald Trump’s in a way very few of his fellow serves of the Turkmen Galkyny- cal position and rich hydrocarbon first transatlantic trip as US pres- leaders would do, and failed to dis- in the sh field, together with reserves of deposits, has vast potential to fur- Philippines, Thailand, ident still left European leaders pel persistent doubts about US the Yashlar field, are estimated at ther increase export of gas to vari- shaken. First, there were the body commitment to Nato by endors- country’s 26.2 trillion cubic meters of gas and ous destinations, including Euro- language battles. Trump is well ing Article 5, the mutual defence reaches 27.4 trillion cubic meters pean and Asian markets. (AP) Indonesia: Defence known for his efforts to dominate pledge at the heart of the alliance. male interlocutors with a firm hand- While arguably undiplomatic, this south shake, often accompanied by an was at least familiar from Trump’s minister Hishammuddin arm wrench: notable victims in- campaign rhetoric and thus, to More than 100 people have died Iran’s VP congratulates clude the Japanese prime minister some extent, expected. What Eu- during fighting in the southern Phil- Shinzo Abe, who survived a 19- ropean leaders did not seem to have ippines city of Marawi. Azerbaijan’s National Day second power grip in February. In anticipated was the US president’s The death toll in a battle over a Brussels on Thursday for meet- patchy understanding of the bloc. southern Philippine city besieged Iranian First Vice President Eshaq that, judging by the serious will of ings with EU and Nato leaders, he The Belgian daily Le Soir reported by Islamist militants has reached Jahangiri congratulated his Azer- the two countries’ authorities, he was trumped by the French pres- that while eating “a lot” of “the more than 100, including 18 civil- bijani counterpart Mehriban Aliye- is certain that there will be more ident, Emmanuel Macron, whose best” chocolates, Trump revealed ians, officials say. Sixty-one of the va in a message on Sunday. and more expansion in bilateral re- smile and squeeze – reporters to prime minister Charles Michel dead were militants who have laid In his message, Jahangiri con- lations. In his message, the Irani- present described “knuckles whit- that his frequent criticisms of the siege to the city of Marawi, 800 gratulated her, Azerbaijan’s peo- an first VP prayed to God for her ening” and “faces tightening” – EU were due largely to his per- kilometres south of Manila, since ple and government on Azer- success and health and wished the were so fierce that Trump was sonal experiences trying to set up Tuesday, according to army baijan’s National Day and ex- people of Azerbaijan honor and forced to yield. The rematch came businesses there. “Every time we spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jo- pressed hope that mutual ties to glory. at Nato headquarters after lunch, talked about a country, he remem- Ar Herrera. Clashes with the gun- expand in every field. He added (Akpress) Malaysia will tighten security at trols at strategic locations and the when Macron pointedly embraced bered the things he had done,” one men have also left 13 soldiers and its borders following the recent deployment of an additional com- German chancellor Angela Merkel, source told the paper. “Scotland? four police officers dead, the mili- spate of militant and terrorist at- pany of infantry at the Cender- and shook hands with several oth- He said he had opened a club. Ire- tary said. Among the 18 civilians tacks in neighbouring countries and awasih, Lahad Datu area, are to er heads of state, before finally land? He said it took him two-and- killed, eight were men believed to Kyrgyzstan: Ruling party deploy more assets to these areas. make sure the Lahad Datu coast- turning to Trump – who jovially a-half years to get a licence and have been killed early Sunday Defence Minister Hisham- line is fully guarded," he said. pulled the Frenchman’s arm half that did not give him a very good morning and then thrown into a nominates presidential muddin Hussein said he had or- Hishammuddin added that he had out of its socket. Merkel, Nato sec- image of the EU.” Besides report- ravine along a highway, just 200 dered the armed forces to beef up also spoken to the defence minis- retary general Jens Stoltenberg and edly telling EU leaders the Ger- metres away from a military patrols across the entire border. ters of the three countries and several others responded with mans were “bad, very bad” on checkpoint in the city, police said. candidate "This is because of the incidents pledged that Malaysia, through its open, if disbelieving, laughter. The trade, Trump and his team shocked "The hands of some of the victims Kyrgyzstan’s ruling Social Demo- viewed as a potential frontrunner that have taken place in three of armed forces, would work closely Europeans appeared even more the Europeans by their ignorance were tied behind their backs, and cratic Party of Kyrgyzstan has for a ballot that seems likely to be our neighbours - the bombing at a with its neighbours to ensure se- startled when Trump shoved aside of the bloc’s trade policy, accord- most of them were shot in the picked incumbent prime minister pushed forward from November hospital in Bangkok, bombing in curity in the region. the prime minister of Montenegro, ing to Süddeutsche Zeitung, re- head," police officer Jamael Man- Sooronbai Jeenbekov as its nomi- 19 to October 15 following a vote Kampung Melayu, Jakarta, and the Adding that he had also spo- Dusko Markovic, to get to the peatedly suggesting America had gadang of a security task force, told nee for the presidency, Kyrgyz in parliament that took place the worsening conflict between Filipi- ken to Deputy Prime Minister Dr front of the family photo. The US different trade deals with Germa- reporters. At least one body had media has reported, ending specu- same day SDPK announced its no forces and militants in Marawi Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also president barrelled his way ny and Belgium. And the US pres- cardboard on the chest with the lation that incumbent leader Al- decision on Jeenbekov. With Jeen- City, Mindanao. "In Sabah, the Home Minister, on the matter, he through the group before drawing ident appeared at least once to word monafiq, which means trai- mazbek Atambayev intends to ex- bekov’s candidacy confirmed, there armed forces will deploy more as- said the security landscape of the himself up to his full height, snap- deny his own words. A French of- tor. tend his time in office. Jeenbekov, will now be questions about when sets, including two additional ships world was becoming increasingly ping his jacket together and strik- ficial told AP that having publicly Philippine security forces dropped an Atambayev loyalist from the he resigns from his post given that for patrols and placing Quick Re- challenging. "The recent terrorist ing a truculent pose – prompting described the far right’s Marine Le more bombs Saturday on a south- southern region of Osh, was the longer he controls levers of action Force members along with attacks in Egypt, Manchester, Par- the writer JK Rowling to caption Pen as “the strongest” candidate ern city where they have been bat- picked following a gathering of the power in the state apparatus, the the troops already operating on the is, Stockholm, Iraq and Afghani- a tweeted GIF of the incident with in France’s presidential election, he tling Islamist militants for five parliamentary party on May 17. more he will be perceived to be at islands off the state," Hishammud- stan prove the threat is real," he the words, “You tiny, tiny, tiny told Macron on Thursday “you days, vowing no let up despite the Thanks to Atambayev’s evident an advantage by his fellow com- din said in a statement on Satur- said. little man.” Body language aside, were my guy” in the vote. start of Ramadan. backing he will immediately be petitors. (Kazaq) day. "Additional combat boat pa- (CNN) there was much else to marvel at. (Theguardian) (AP) MONDAY . MAY 29, 2016 AFGHANISTANTIMES

Chin a disputes Mo o dy’s do w n grade o f its credit ratin g

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani continue maintaining contacts had a telephone conversation with within bilateral and multilateral Russian counterpart Vladimir Pu- formats, as well as expressed com- tin on Saturday to exchange views mitment to deepen the multifacet- on regional issues. The Russian ed bilateral interaction in accor- president congratulated Hassan dance with the agreements reached Rouhani with the new term and during the visit of Rouhani to Rus- wished him success. The two lead- sia on March 27-28. Touching ers stressed the need for more joint upon the situation in Syria, the efforts to resolve the Syria crisis parties stressed importance of de- and discussed economic ties. The veloping joint efforts to favor the two presidents also discussed im- political resolution of the conflict plementation of nuclear deal and in Syria, including in the frame- underlined commitment to the Joint work of the Astana process. The Comprehensive Plan of Action leaders agreed to continue contacts Moody's credit rating service has in the medium term and impact the signed between Tehran and the six both in bilateral and multilateral downgraded China's rating by one sovereign rating negatively. China world states in 2015. formats. notch to A1. The company claimed may no longer suit the requirement Putin and Rouhani agreed to (Mehrnews) that although structural reforms of A1 rating." Moody's expects will slow the build-up of debt it GDP growth in China to be around will not stop debt growth. Unless 5 percent in coming years, down China is able to get its growing from 6.7 percent last year making deficit in check it could it could it even more difficult to reduce Bahrain to host 4th see another credit downgrade in the debt. The government stimulus Japanese investments future. The company predicted policies have resulted in a moun- that the financial strength of Chi- tain of debt with credit growth now Euromoney GCC na will be eroded in coming years running at nearly 300 percent of as growth slows while debt in- GDP when debt at all levels are creases. However, at the same time included. The growth in govern- are looking up as it announced the downgrade ment and quasi-government debt Financial Forum 2015 Moody's changed the outlook on is estimated to have risen from 62 the first half of this year has im- China from negative to stable indi- percent in 2015 to 68 percent in proved to negative 8.8 points, from cating that it is unlikely to change 2016. Corporate debt also in- negative 17.8 points in the second the rating for some time. creased from 153 percent of GDP half of 2016. The worst sentiment China was quite critical of the in 2015 to 164 percent in 2016. was seen in the second half of 2015 downgrade arguing that it was Many analysts fear there could be when business sentiment index re- based upon "inappropriate meth- a banking crisis in the future as corded negative 26.4 points. The odology" and that it exaggerated there are more and more loans that battered sentiment in 2015 had difficulties as well. China also com- are unpaid. caused Japanese investments in plained that the report did not ad- China has used debt to equity 2016 to shrink to RM3.3bil, from equately take into account the swaps, reducing industrial capaci- RM8.5bil in 2015. “Our diffusion country's reform efforts. A senior ty, and reforms of state-owned index (DI) for the first half of this Moody official, Marie Dixon said enterprises as ways of lowering year improved dramatically, and that the company was encouraged debt levels. The central bank has further upward trend will be ex- by the vast reform agenda under- raised short-term interest rates to pected in the second half of 2017. taken by China designed to address discourage borrowing. However, The second half of 2015 has hit the debt problem. However, she the moves have been cautious in bottom and now, it is turning into said that the company thought that an attempt not to roil the political a recovery phase,” said Akira Ka- while the measures would slow the waters before the Communist Par- jita, research committee chairman growth of debt they would not halt ty Congress in the autumn this of Jactim, when explaining the sur- JAPANESE investments in Ma- Monday when releasing a business its growth and there will be no dra- year. vey results. On the back of this matic drop in the level of debt. She The Moody's lowering of Chi- laysia this year may rise by at least survey result. The recent business optimism, Jactim is projecting that 30% after the latest survey shows Leading international and regional the event. said that China's economic recov- na's debt rating is the first in near- survey conducted by Jactim and the Malaysian economy will grow financial experts and decision mak- Commenting on the forum an- that the business sentiment of the Japan External Trade Organisation ery last year was mostly caused ly thirty years. The Chinese are more than 5% this year, compared ers will attend the 4th GCC Fi- nouncement, Richard Banks, Di- by pump-priming measures meant upset partly because it will make Japanese has continued to trend (Jetro) shows that 31.3% of re- to the Malaysian Government’s upwards on the back of gradual nancial Forum on 24th and 25th rector, Emerging Markets, Eu- to reach growth targets. This add- it more difficult to raise capital on spondents will expand their in- forecast of between 4.3% and February, 2015, to debate and dis- romoney Conferences, said, "This improvement in the local econo- vestments as they see growth po- ed to the country's debt. The com- equity and bond markets. The 4.8%. Despite the continued re- cuss the global economic outlook, is the fourth GCC Financial Fo- pany also wants to see to what downgrade was from Aa3 which is my. These investments are expect- tential in Malaysia. But 64.4% of covery in sentiment, the DI has ed to jump by leaps and bounds if its recovery and its effects on re- rum and it is now established as a extent policies designed to rein in high quality and very low risk to the respondents maintained status stayed in the negative territory gional financial markets. The fo- flagship international conference. Japanese firms succeed in bidding quo while only 4.3% have inten- local spending are actually carried A1 which is medium to high qual- since 2015. This is because there rum, organised by Euromoney We are grateful for the strategic out according to the associate man- ity and low risk. The last down- for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore tion to downsize their business. are still many outstanding issues High Speed Rail (HSR) project, Conferences and co-hosted by the partnership and support extended aging director of Moody's Sover- grade was in the 1990's. Since then In the first quarter of this year, faced by Japanese firms. Many of Bahrain Economic Development by the Economic Development estimated to cost around RM60bil. Malaysia posted a gross domestic eign Risk Group. Li Xiujun, vice there have been many upgrades as their problems, however, are also Board, EDB, will include a range Board in the Kingdom of Bahrain president of credit strategy and China experienced rapid growth “We hope to see a growth of at product (GDP) growth of 5.6% – faced by other trade groups. About least 30% in Japanese investments of topics, including Regional fi- and our sponsors." Kamal bin standards at Moody's said: "If in and emerged as a rising global eco- much higher than the expected av- 80% of Japanese firms surveyed nance in the global market place, Ahmed, Minister for Transporta- in Malaysia over 2016 in line with erage of 4.8% by private sector the future China's structural re- nomic power. said currency fluctuations is affect- the role of private capital in public tion and Telecommunications and forms can prevent its leverage from A main problem is that Chi- our improved sentiment and the economists. The services and man- ing their cost and thus profit mar- higher local GDP growth seen in projects, Bahrain’s real economy, Acting Chief Executive of EDB, rising more effectively without in- na's economic growth has not been ufacturing sectors had expanded gin. This was particularly serious the growth of local companies and said, "Bahrain has long been a lead- the first quarter of this year,” said strongly. The survey from Feb 6 creasing risks in the banking and larger than its GDP growth since in 2015, when the ringgit plunged the pipeline of hydrocarbon er in the Financial Services sector, shadow banking sector, then it will back in 2009. China's problem is Toshihiko Todokoro, president of to March 31 on 150 Japanese com- on outflow of funds and other neg- Japanese Chamber of Trade and projects. with over 40 years as a financial have a positive impact on China's that whenever the growth level falls panies operating in Malaysia ative news. More than 400 leading inter- hub in the region. This year, the Industry Malaysia (Jactim) last shows that business sentiment for rating.If there are signs that Chi- below what the authorities wish (THESTAR) national and regional financial ex- GCC will provide a platform for na's debt will keep rising and the for they spend more money to perts from finance, investment, the financial sector to address rate of growth is beyond our ex- stimulate the economy and that government, and regulatory organ- some of the biggest questions in pectations, leading to serious cap- counteracts any attempts to low- isations and businesses from 18 the industry." ital misallocation, then it will con- er debt levels. Ugan da, Tan zan ia eye countries are expected to attend (WAM) tinue to weigh on economic growth (Digitaljournal) o il pipelin e fo r eco n o m ic Mauritius dislodges de ve lo pm e n t Singapore to top KAMPALA: Uganda and Tanza- nia signed an agreement which India’s FDI charts gives a legal framework to the con- struction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). At the signing here, both countries in 2016-17: DIPP argued that the Inter-Governmen- tal Agreement (IGA) sets the foun- dation for the setting up of other legal instruments towards the man- agement of the oil pipeline that will link Uganda's oil wells to the Tan- Myanmar’s zanian seaport of Tanga. The sign- ing of the IGA came days after the leaders of the Ugandan President missing investment Yoweri Museveni and Tanzanian President John Magufuli signed a communique signaling the end of istry of finance figures, has planned to spend over 900 million dollars on the year-long negotiations and a go construction of roads and an international airport in the oil wells area in law liftoff ahead to start the construction. the western part of the country. Adewale Fayemi, General Manager A year after its launch, the Yangon hydrocarbons sector was shunned Construction of the 1,445-km oil Total E&P Uganda, argued that the EACOP has the potential to open a Stock Exchange Index with four list- altogether, as $3 billion went into pipeline is expected to start to- new era in East Africa. "With an estimated cost of 3.55 billion dollars, it ings has halved on paltry turnover telecoms and transport as the larg- wards the end of this year and will will significantly contribute to increasing the foreign direct investment as economic growth dipped slight- est category. Asian neighbors Sin- last up to 2020. The first drop of per year by over 60 percent in the two countries during the construction ly from the 7% trend, and foreign gapore, China and Japan, which crude oil is expected the other side phase," Fayemi said. "It will trigger important economic growth. It will direct investment fell for the first underwrote the stock market's cre- of the pipeline by the end of 2020, increase links and enhance business between East African countries time in five years - by one-third to ation, were the dominant players, NEW DELHI: Island nation Mau- ceived from Singapore since 2006- according to goals set by both gov- through the corridor being opened," he added. During the construction $6.5 billion. This was despite a new as European and US investors keep ritius elbowed out Singapore to 07. Taken together, Mauritius ernments. The 3.55-billion-US- stage, according to official figures, over 10,000 jobs would be created, "one-stop shop" law going into full their distance despite sanctions emerge as the top source of for- and Singapore account for 50 per dollar pipeline will be the longest boosting the income of the households along the pipeline. effect in April that cut bureaucra- removal with the shift to civilian eign direct investment (FDI) into cent of total capital inflows into electrically heated pipeline in the (Dailytimes) cy and offered tax incentives. The government led by Nobel laureate India in 2016-17. In absolute terms, the country. An official said a world. It is heated because of the Aung Sung Suu Kyi. Critics point foreign inflow from Mauritius in series of steps to liberalise the FDI waxy nature of Uganda's oil. Ugan- out that she unveiled a vague eco- 2016 -17 stood at USD 15.72 bil- policy and to improve ease of do- da has so far discovered over 6.5 nomic plan last year that has hard- lion whereas that of Singapore read ing business have helped attract billion barrels of oil. ly been fleshed out, and cite as an USD 8.71 billion, showed data of more and more foreign investors. Experts argue that during and AMF Chief calls for rigid example the lack of a new compa- the Department of Industrial Pol- During the last three years, India after the construction of the pipe- nies act to accompany the invest- icy and Promotion (DIPP). In has relaxed norms in as many as line, the two countries and the en- ment statute in order to modern- ize corporate practices. Her de- 2015-16, Singapore was in the nu- 21 sectors covering 87 areas. In tire East African region stand to mero uno position. According 2016-17, the total FDI in India reap benefits from the project. control of banking sector fenders argue that the country went to experts, the drop in FDI from grew by 9 per cent to USD 43.5 Palamagamba Kabudi, Tanzania's decades without free market expe- rience and that an attempt to forge Singapore last fiscal may be on ac- billion. Other nations from where Minister of Constitutional and Dr. Jassim Al Mannai, Director count of revision of tax treaty with foreign inflows recorded healthy Legal affairs, said implementation peace with ethnic and regional rebel General Chairman of the Board of groups has taken early priority an aim to check round-tripping of growth last fiscal include Japan, of EACOP would open up the re- Directors of the Arab Monetary funds. The revised treaty came into the Netherlands, the US, Germa- gion for further opportunities for amid international attention on the Fund (AMF) has urged the mone- Muslim Rohingya refugee crisis. force from February this year. ny, France and the UAE during the trade and in turn fast track socio- tary authorities to reconsider the Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind last financial year. economic development. He was Officials tried to allay business methods of control exercised on the concern with the claim that FDI Kumar Jugnauth, who was here on Foreign investments are crucial for speaking after the signing of the banking sector as well as the meth- an India trip, stated that a com- India, which needs around USD 1 IGA with Irene Muloni, Uganda's exceeded the original $6 billion tar- od of risk management in order to get, and still promise wider over- prehensive economic cooperation trillion (about Rs 6.4 lakh crore) minister of Energy and Mineral know the fragility of this sector. repercussions of which still lie ahead". "The prime cause of the global seas entry into the protected fi- pact with India is being negotiated to overhaul its infrastructure such Development. Kabudi said apart Addressing the opening ses- financial crisis was the weakness in the methods of risk control adopted nancial sector, but ambitions for a that will boost bilateral trade and as ports, airports and highways to from increased tax revenue, there sion of a workshop on 'Stress Test' by banks and the failure of regulators to assess the ability of financial quick transformation into the "next investments. Interestingly, al- push growth. will be new infrastructure devel- being held in Abu Dhabi today, Al institutions to withstand stressful conditions", added Al Mannai. The Vietnam," a popular catchphrase though Singapore has come off the It helps improve the country's bal- opment, promotion of economic Mannai said: "This session comes three day workshop organised by the Economic Policy Institute of the recently touted by the chief exec- perch to the second slot, foreign ance of payments situation and activities along the pipeline route at a time when the global economy AMF at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi in cooperation with the Financial utive of consumer goods multina- capital from that country into In- strengthen the rupee value against and promotion of petroleum ex- is passing through very difficult Stability Institute (FSI) is attended by 33 delegates from17 Arab coun- tional Unilever, look farfetched dia is on the upswing. other global currencies, especially ploration activity in areas near the and complex situations resulting tries. with the momentum stall since the FDI inflow of USD 13.7 billion in the US dollar. pipeline. Uganda, according to min- from the global financial crisis, the (WAM) democracy transition. (AP) 2015-16 was the highest ever re- (CNN) MONDAY. MAY 29, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES Priyanka Chopra’s Baywatch needs a lifeguard; it’s sinking at the box office aywatch, Priyan ka Chopra’s debut Hollywood movie, is in need of a lifeguard. The action-comedy, Being a stay-at-home which also stars Dwayne J ohnson and mother is a thankless Zac Efron, is sinking both critically and commercially. job: Shilpa Shetty Priyanka Chopra’s debut Holly- Actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra, who than men. There isn’t anything that wood movie, Baywatch, is in des- has a five-year-old son Viaan feels we are not capable of doing,” she perate need of a lifeguard. Accord- she is very fortunate to be able to stated. “We are multi-faceted per- ing to industry reports, the action- continue working after mother- sonalities and are able to multi-task comedy, which also stars Dwayne hood, reported Bollywood.com. much better than men. We look They dress like celebrities and can Johnson and Zac Efron, had a dis- The 41-year-old actor, who after our family. We take care of increasingly be spotted on the appointing opening two days at owns a production house, says that our in laws, children, our hus- world’s catwalks and red carpets. the box office, in addition to the in a job, one at least gets to take bands, which is a full-time job in Meet the “influencers,” the most largely negative reviews. Falling breaks but it’s a totally different itself… and plus we bring home famous people you’ve never heard short of industry expectations, ball game when it comes to run- the bread. There are a lot of wom- of. For 70 years, the Cannes Film Baywatch made $10.5 million (Rs ning a household and raising a child. en who are doing all of that to- Festival has been a key event on 67 crore) in two days at the US “I totally respect the fact that if day,” she added. The actor adds any A-lister’s calendar. But move Are Deepika box office. The three day opening you are a homemaker, it’s even that she makes sure to engage Vi- over Nicole Kidman, there’s a new was expected to be in the range of more than a full-time job. In a job, aan in extra-curricular activities. breed of star in town: social media $25 million - already a substan- you have breaks and can switch- “These days play dates have be- personalities invited purely on the Padukone, Ranveer tially low figure considering off. Here, it’s a thankless job. You come a new way to entertain chil- grounds of their huge Instagram or Dwayne Johnson’s box office are underpaid and overworked,” dren. I don’t know how our par- YouTube followings. Sharing the power. This is the lowest opening she says. The Dhadkan star says ents did it. I do my best to keep red carpet with Kidman and Will among the Rock’s most recent that women multi-task and work Viaan occupied in extra-curricular Smith this week have been beauty Singh living movies - The Fate of the Furious, round the clock and what’s more, activities. There is a teacher who bloggers like 17-year-old Amanda Central Intelligence, Moana, San they do it better than men. “Wom- comes home for gymnastics… he Steele (2.8 million YouTube sub- Andreas, Furious 7 and Hercules. en are doing everything and any- loves that. He doesn’t need that scribers) and Swiss Instagrammer together? It falls way short of even the Jump thing. I can even go to the extent of many play dates,” she says. Kristina Bazan (2.4 million follow- Street movies - whose success it saying that they are doing it better (Santa Banta) ers). Maja Malnar, who makes a was trying to emulate. The Jonah living from her blog and 264,000- Deepika Padukone and her rumoured boyfriend, actor Hill-Channing Tatum starrers strong Instagram following, admits Ranveer Singh, are rumoured to be staying together at opened to $35 million and $57 she’s struggled to explain her job the latter’s place in Dahisar. million in their opening weekends. as a “social media influencer” to This image released by Paramount her mother back in Slovenia. Years Pictures shows Dwayne Johnson ago, she started posting snaps of as Mitch Buchannon, left, and Zac her daily outfits on the photo app Efron as Matt Brody in Baywatch. and blogging about her travels. (AP) Forbes’ Scott Mendelson ad- These days, she’s part of a grow- mits he “didn’t see this coming.” ing industry known as “influencer “Yes, the movie isn’t very marketing” whereby brands seek good and yes the nation’s critics to harness the power of web-us- tore it to shreds, but as a general ers by slipping their products into rule star-driven comedies will draw their posts. “It’s a good business, the fans regardless of reviews, be- I can’t complain,” Malnar told cause the audience just wants to AFP. The petite blonde, who is in see said comic actors attempt to her twenties but declined to give make them laugh,” he said. Mean- her age, is set to walk the red car- while, Johnny Depp’s fifth Pirates pet on Friday in a tie-up with of the Caribbean movie is on track MasterCard and the designer who to open with $75 million in the US provided her dress. She’ll then and $275 million worldwide in its opening weekend. Neither Bay- Rumoured couple Deepika been shooting at Dahisar for two watch nor Pirates has been re- Padukone and Ranveer Singh are days now and there are still a few viewed particularly well. Priyan- Farhan gets n o stalgic shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansa- days left for the shoot to conclude. ka’s film, which is expected to ar- li’s Padmavati, and while there are The film, which also stars actor rive in Indian theatres on June 2, reports that the two don’t have Shahid Kapoor, is slated to release currently sits at 19% on the re- with Sachin: A scenes together, they are prepar- in November this year. view aggregator site Rotten Toma- ing for their roles in the film with Padmavati, that revolves around toes, while Pirates isn’t faring each other. A set for the film has the 1303 siege of the Chittor fort much better with 32%. billion dreams been set up at a studio at Dahisar, in Rajasthan, has been in news for (Hindustan Times) in the outskirts of Mumbai. Ran- a while now because of the repeat- Farhan Akhtar who is a huge fan through our common friend Mon- veer owns a house there and moves ed disruption on the sets of the of Sachin Tendulkar, wished the isha. it remains one of my most in when he is preparing for his film. In February this year, the cricket icon for his upcoming re- prized possessions and you remain roles. According to reports, Deep- shoot was stopped by activists of lease 'Sachin: A billion dreams' my cricketing hero. All the best for ika is also living there with him for a Rajput group, who tried to van- Farhan took us down the memory 'Sachin: A billion dreams' .. lots of sometime. They have decided to dalise the sets at the Jaigarh Fort lane in 90's when he got a signed love and respect". Sachin: A bil- stay close to the sets so they can in Jaipur. The activists accused cover by the master blaster him- lion dreams, sketches the life sto- avoid wasting time travelling. Bhansali of distorting facts. In self. It was through a common ry of Master Blaster Sachin Ten- There are also reports that the two March, the sets caught fire in Kol- friend Farhan got a signed maga- dulkar, and audiences are eager to are using this time to prepare for hapur. zine cover featuring Sachin in it. witness it onscreen. Sachin: A bil- their roles together. The team has (Tribune) Just like the entire nation, Farhan lion dreams, written and directed is also excited for the film to re- by James Erskine and produced by lease. The actor took to social Ravi Bhagchandka and Carnival media sharing, "Way back in '99, Motion Pictures under 200 Not- before we ever met, you were kind Out Productions is scheduled to Taapsee Pannu says she enough to sign this cover for me be released on 26 May 2017. would love to play (Santa Banta) Indira Gandhi or Two mature women can Sania Mirza on screen definitely be friends: The actor says that she Ileana D’Cruz is looking forw ard to doing a biopic, w ants Unlike most of her contemporar- Nargis has come and it makes me to play either Indira ies in Bollywood, Ileana D’cruz happy to see that she’s doing Gandhi or Sania Mirza seems to be unperturbed by the something that makes her happy,” on screen. idea of sharing a film with another said the Phatta Poster Nikla Hero heroine. If you don’t believe us, star. “We lead busy lives that in- have to post about it. “We’re entrepreneurs. We saw a gap in the market just have a look at the actor’s fil- volve lots of travelling so we don’t and we capitalised on it,” says her friend Lorna Andrews, a British ex-air mography. Ileana made her debut have the luxury of catching up over hostess who modestly calls herself a “mid-tier influencer” with 464,000 with 2012’s Barfi, a film that also weekends. I think it is possible for Instagram followers. Cannes is no stranger to those famous for being starred Priyanka Chopra, along two actresses to be friends, abso- famous – socialites like Paris Hilton have been turning up for years – with Ranbir Kapoor. Then there lutely. Two mature women can and brands have long recognised the festival’s power as a marketing was Main Tera Hero in 2014 which definitely be friends. It’s silly to opportunity. Top-end labels and jewellers have, for decades, dressed was a two-heroine project and so assume that two actresses would the stars for free at Cannes, knowing they will be snapped there by the was Happy Ending, also released only resort to pettiness and jeal- waiting paparazzi. But the arrival of the “influencer” at the world’s Taapsee Pannu’s last release Naam woman would be great because I in 2014. Then came last year’s ousy. Only an immature woman biggest film festival – and at international fashion weeks – is a new Shabana got her rave reviews. am quite passionate about sport. I Rustom and there you have it… who’s insecure would resort to phenomenon. About 18 months ago, Edouard Hausseguy, a 27-year-old However, the actor is clear that she would love to do a Sania Mirza Ileana is more than happy to share something like that.” Considering Frenchman, realised the money-making potential of people whose pho- doesn’t want to be stereotyped. biopic,” says Taapsee. And what screen space with other female ac- her stance, one can assume that Il- tos, restaurant tips and beauty tutorials are followed by millions online, After Pink (2016) and Naam Sha- other genres besides this? “A psy- tors. And yet, the Bollywood eana’s relationship with her next even though most would not recognise them on the street. He set up his bana, it was a conscious choice for chological thriller. I would also beauty repeatedly finds herself at co-star Athiya Shetty is also gen- agency Hemblem to represent anyone with a following of 30,000 and up her to do a film like Judwaa 2, as want to play an antagonist or a the centre of rumours and contro- uine. The two recently wrapped – negotiating deals with brands and then taking a cut. “Those people are she wanted to explore the commer- character with grey shades. That versy revolving around her rela- up shooting for the upcoming people like us, but they speak to millions of people with one picture,” cial space. “It is a wonderful time would be great fun,” the Pink ac- tionships with her female co-stars, Mubarakan and apparently got he said in an interview on a yacht moored at Cannes, where he’s hoping to be a female actor. I played the tor says. On her social media ac- reported Hindustan Times. Slam- along really well. And what’s more, his influencers will benefit from the presence of top brands and the hero in Naam Shabana. But I am counts, Taapsee often comes ming talks of rivalry and jealously, Ileana credits Athiya for breaking media. For the festival, Hemblem has filled a villa with influencers who also excited about Judwaa 2. Com- across as someone who speaks her Ileana recently said, “I don’t know the ice. “Athiya and I got along are splitting their time between glamorous events and furiously posting edy is not really the easiest genre mind on issues that need to be ad- if I can say I have friends in the from day one and I think it was online, whether it’s about designer labels or a charity for Syrian children. as it is not very easy to make peo- dressed. The actor says that she industry but I do have some great because of her. The first conversa- Co-founder Thomas Elliott said brands were catching on to the power ple laugh. But I am looking for- has always believed in having an equations with some lovely peo- tion I remember having with Athiya of a recommendation from Instagrammers to shift products from the ward to it,” she says. Though she opinion. “I have always been bold ple. Nargis (Fakhri) and I got along was during the screening of Rus- shelves. “Jane next door or Joe next door is probably better for product hasn’t made any announcements and brash. My father has often told really well during Main Tera Hero tom,” she recalls. According to Il- placement, as people can identify with these people,” he said. It’s pos- about her projects after Judwaa 2, me that I should have been a law- and although we don’t talk often, eana, it was during the interval of sible to get paid for a single post. “The fee depends on the size of the the actor says that she is looking yer. As a kid and even now, I ask a we sort of follow each other’s lives the screening that Athiya came up following,” said Joe Gagliese, co-founder of Viral Nation, a rival agency forward to doing roles that are di- lot of questions. I am inquisitive on social media.” Ileana went on to her to pay a compliment and based in Toronto. “It could be $100,000 if you have over five million ametrically opposite to what she as a person and I guess that comes to say she feels genuinely happy she knew, then and there, that they followers.” With 13 million followers apiece, supermodels Bella Hadid has played so far. “I would love to across in the way I deal with peo- for how far Nargis has come in life. would be friends. and Emily Ratajkowski rank as the true Instagram queens of Cannes. do a biopic. Probably, on Indira ple on the set as well,” she says. “In a way, it makes me see how far (Hindustan Times) Gandhi. Even a biopic on a sports- (Hindustan Times) (Tribune) MONDAY. MAY 29, 2017 AFGHANISTANTIMES

wrong. Chelsea's 10th-placed fin- ish in 2015/16 came when Jose Mourinho appeared more likely to build a dynasty at Stamford Bridge. This season, Leicester dropped like a stone after the highs of their own triumph last summer. Chelsea will also be wary of how their rivals will strengthen. Indeed, Manchester City have already started their transfer business with the £43m purchase of Bernardo Co un ty Cham pio n ship Silva from Monaco, while Jose Mourinho is likely to receive the same kind of financial backing at United. Atletico Madrid's Antoine Divisio n Tw o : No tts Griezmann is known to be among their targets. It was no surprise, then, to hear Conte asking for Ro- man Abramovich to match that in firm co n tro l ambition after Saturday's game. "The most important thing is to Unbeaten Specsavers County for a high-scoring draw. Chasing their bowling, reducing their op- give a correct evaluation of our sea- Championship division two lead- the visitors' 619, the hosts reached ponents to 69-4. But just when it son," he said. "For next season, we ers Nottinghamshire seized the ini- 532-8 on day three as bat domi- appeared they had steadied the must pay great attention and un- tiative after declaring on 430-9 and nated ball at the County Ground. ship, Sussex lost their last six wick- derstand that we have to improve then forcing Gloucestershire to Chris Cooke (63no) and Aneurin ets for 64 runs. Daniel Bell-Drum- the numbers and the quality in the follow on, having been skittled for Donald (51) both scored half-cen- mond (68no) and Sean Dickson Chelsea's FA Cup defeat to Arse- double. After a season in which brations was plain to see as they squad." Chelsea will have to con- 149. Notts added 63 to their over- turies in Glamorgan's delayed re- (42no) then put on 116 without nal showed that building on their they were far superior to their Pre- were comprehensively outplayed tend with the extra commitments night score on Saturday before re- sponse to Durham's 342 all out, loss to take a stranglehold on the Premier League title triumph will mier League rivals from Novem- by Arsenal in the first half at Wem- of European football next season, ducing the visitors to 59-5, with the visitors reaching 225 for six at game. Daryl Mitchell's 161 on the not be straight-forward, writes ber onwards, Conte's side fell well bley. Conte pointed to Alexis so bringing in the right reinforce- Phil Mustard providing the only stumps. Kent have already racked second day at Wantage Road put Nick Wright. In the days leading short of expectations in their final Sanchez's controversial opening ments will be vital if Conte is to resistance with a half-century. up a 321-run lead on day two after Worcestershire on course for a up to the FA Cup final, Antonio test. They cannot be blamed for goal as a turning point, but the rotate his side effectively. Asked to bat again, Gloucester- bowling out visitors Sussex for 164 fourth consecutive victory. He Conte talked about extending his feeling drained. Chelsea's relentless pattern of the half already looked Chelsea are particularly short shire closed on 37-1, still 244 be- thanks to a five-wicket haul from helped his side take a first-innings contract in order to "build some- march to the title was a feat of en- set before that. And so, as Chelsea on cover at centre-back and wing- hind. Barry Godleman (141) and Darren Stevens, who now has 29 lead of 196 and Northamptonshire thing important" at Chelsea. It was durance in itself, and the difficulty come to terms with the disappoint- back, and there are also question Shiv Thakor (132) both scored cen- championship wickets at 12.08 were then reduced to 53 for two music to their supporters' ears af- of keeping a title-winning side fo- ment of finishing a brilliant cam- marks over the future of top scor- turies while Gary Wilson fell just apiece. Resuming on 316-8, the by the close of day two, trailing ter a stellar debut season in the cused for an FA Cup final is clear paign on a low point, thoughts will er Diego Costa. Chelsea can, how- three short as Derbyshire's game hosts added a further 53 before by 143. Premier League, but Saturday's FA from the fact that only 11 sides turn to the challenges ahead. Con- ever, draw encouragement from at home to Leicestershire headed making immediate inroads with (Cricket News) Cup final defeat to Arsenal was a have won both trophies in the same te were irresistible for so much of Conte's record. The Italian mas- reminder of the hard work that lies season in English football history. 2016/17, but no side has retained tered the art of re-focusing his ahead. With their uncharacteristi- Conte is a hard task-master the Premier League title since Sir players at Juventus, winning three cally off-colour performance at who demands total commitment Alex Ferguson's Manchester Unit- consecutive Serie A titles between Webb Simpson Wembley, Chelsea missed the from his players in training, but ed in 2009. They don't need to look 2011 and 2014. chance to win a league and FA Cup the hangover from their title cele- far for reminders of what can go (Sky Sport) takes two-shot lead into final day in Texas

Sir Mo Farah Kell Brook was stopped by Errol Spence Jr in the penultimate round after succumbing to an eye injury at Bramall Lane in Sheffield on victorious in 5,000 Saturday night. Brook sunk to his knees with his swollen left eye causing obvious distress, and ref- metres in Eugene eree Howard Foster called a halt to confirm Spence Jr as the new Sir Mo Farah fired an early warn- 13mins 01.21secs, with Geoffrey IBF welterweight champion. Shef- ing ahead of this summer's World Kamworor finishing in 13:01.35. field's Brook had previously suf- Championships in London by Farah's time in the Diamond fered a broken orbital bone in his claiming victory in the 5,000 me- League race, his second competi- middleweight defeat to Gennady tres at the Prefontaine Classic in tion of the outdoor season follow- Golovkin last September, but his Eugene, Oregon, on Saturday. ing a second-place finish over other eye resulted in his demise The 34-year-old, who will be 1500m earlier this month, was the against Spence Jr who was ahead looking to retain his 5,000m and fastest in the world this year. on all three judges' scorecards at 10,000m crowns in August in his He will be moving up to the the conclusion. The American chal- final year on the track, pulled away marathon after August's IAAF lenger, a cool and composed char- in the closing stages from a strong World Championships in London. field in the US to cross the line in Elsewhere, Olympic bronze Webb Simpson shot a three-un- acter throughout the week despite 13 minutes 00.70 seconds. medallist Ashley Spencer added der-par 67 on Saturday to break being in enemy territory, began to The four-time Olympic cham- another 2017 best with an impres- out of a crowd and take the quietly find a home for his trade- pion finished clear of Ethiopia's sive run of 53.38 seconds in the third-round lead at Colonial. mark body shots from the open- Yomif Kejelcha, who clocked women's 400 metres hurdles. But Paul Casey holed a 23-foot ing bell. Brook's counter left - a (BBC Sport) putt on the 18th to leave him- successful shot on multiple occa- self within two shots of the lead sions, delivered over Spence Jr's at the Dean & DeLuca Invita- jab - was evidence that the Shef- tional. England's Casey, who is field fighter retained his speed and Giro d'Italia: Thibaut Pinot Stan Wawrinka, without a win on the PGA Tour reflexes upon his return to welter- since 2009, goes into the final weight. Brook tried to bulldoze day behind only Simpson after through his younger and less ex- wins stage 20 to set Jo-Wilfried Tsonga recording a two-under-par 68 in perienced foe, and sure enough, his the third round in Texas. Casey trainer Dominic Ingle assured "he's warm up for French is joined on seven under par beginning to drain" after four up thrilling finale by New Zealand's Danny Lee, rounds of tit-for-tat action. while American duo Stewart The champion appeared com- an early push on the finishing Open with Geneva Cink and Kevin Kisner are both fortable opposing a southpaw, as straight, before FDJ's Pinot re- one shot further back. he has been on many occasions sponded to snatch victory. Ka- Defending champion Jor- before, but Spence Jr proved a slick tusha's Zakarin and Nibali - who and Lyon titles dan Spieth is five shots off the operator who justified the consid- took four bonus seconds - were lead on four under, as is Mas- erable hype generated from Amer- second and third, ahead of Poz- ters champion Sergio Garcia, ica. zovivo and Quintana, while Du- moulin eventually crossed the line who had three bogeys in a one- His punches to the body were over 71. Casey started the third never obvious but always present. 15 seconds back. The 26-year-old Dutchman, chasing a first grand round one shot behind four co- Spence Jr needed to grit his teeth leaders and reached the turn in and persevere through a difficult tour victory, looked shattered as he crossed the line, but few had 36 following a dropped shot on sixth round when Brook turned up the eighth but began the back the heat, but the tables quickly much left in the tank, which only adds to the intrigue ahead of Sun- nine with successive birdies. turned. Straight left hands from the day's 29.3km time trial from Mon- Another bogey on the 12th southpaw stance began to find za to Milan. Nibali is no slouch in Stan Wawrinka stormed back from tournaments," Wawrinka said to threatened to stall his progress Brook and, in the seventh, his left a time trial and the general classifi- a set down to beat German qualifi- his opponent during the post- Thibaut Pinot won a thrilling 20th Pozzovivo - who started the day but he responded by sending eye showed clear markings. The cation could hardly be closer, with er Mischa Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 and match ceremony. Zverev still seeks his tee shot to within four feet wound worsened swiftly. Brook stage of the Giro d'Italia to set up fifth and sixth overall respectively only 90 seconds separating Quin- retain the men's title in Geneva on a first career title at 29. The Rus- a potenti ally enthralling final day - launched an attack, before Niba- Saturday. The top-seeded Swiss sia-born German's second runner- at the par-three 13th for a bird- needed the solace of the bell to the tana in pink from Pozzovivo in ie, before his superb putt on the end of the ninth round as Spence on Sunday. Nairo Quintana held li, Quintana and Pinot formed a sixth. Pinot said: "I'm very happy looked frustrated early on as Zver- up finish comes more than six on to the leaders' pink jersey but chasing group behind. They were ev, world No 33, broke his serve years after his first, at Metz in last left him right in contention Jr realised the IBF belt was within to win this stage, ahead of some of for a win on Sunday. Simpson, his grasp. Brook was then on the may not have gained a large enough all looking to gain precious seconds the best riders in this Giro. "I came and went on to take the first set of France. "It was a long week for lead over Tom Dumoulin, who on Dumoulin, wary of what the for a stage victory, which I'm very the final. In front of a partisan me," Zverev said. "I have never ex- the 2012 US Open champion, floor - a combination with a managed to limit his losses ahead Olympic time trial silver medallist dropped his only shot of the crunching punch to the mid-sec- happy about because it's always home crowd, Wawrinka, the world pected to be in a final in a clay- of Sunday's race-concluding time might be able to do on the streets special to win a stage on a grand No 3 bursted into life and raced to court tournament." Meanwhile, Jo- day on the eighth but birdies tion from Spence Jr caused him to trial. Dumoulin dropped from sec- of Milan on Sunday. Zakarin and a 3-0 lead in the second, courtesy Wilfried Tsonga prepared for the on the first, second, 10th and double-up in pain. His eye, by this tour. ond to fourth in the standings but Pozzovivo reached the summit, "But to win the Giro I will need of some powerful forehands which French Open in perfect style by 11th saw him sign for a three- point, looked appalling but he is only 53 seconds behind Quin- still 14.8km from home, with a lead proved too strong for Zverev. claiming his maiden clay court ti- under 67. Lee, who shot the bravely roared on and, from the to have one of the best days of my tana and still holds a great chance, of 14 seconds over Quintana's life on the bike. In any case, I'll Wawrinka, who won the French tle, beating Czech Tomas Berdych week's lowest score on Friday, precipice of defeat, turned the considering his time-trialling prow- group, with Dumoulin a further 20 give it everything." Dumoulin did Open in 2015, dropped serve once 7-6(2) 7-5 in the Lyon Open final kept in touch with a 69. He had round into a back-and-forth affair. ess. Quintana finished fifth on the seconds back. The front five then not lose as much time as he had on in the final set but broke Zverev on Saturday. Today's victory was three birdies and three bogeys But the injury was too severe and, day and leads overall by 39 sec- came together to push for home, Friday and said: "Luckily, I had three times, securing the title with Tsonga's fifth win over third-seed- onds from defending champion and while Dumoulin joined up with in his first eight holes, before with Spence Jr given an obvious better legs than yesterday. "I ab- another explosive forehand for his ed Berdych in thirteen meetings recording nine successive pars target, it was causing more and home favourite Vincenzo Nibali Bob Jungels (Quick-Step Floors) solutely killed myself, but I'm first tournament success of the and his second in three meetings (Bahrain-Merida), with Pinot's vic- and Great Britain's Adam Yates year as he prepares for another on clay. The second-seeded and then draining a 16-foot putt more problems. forever thankful and grateful to the on the last for birdie. Brook was blinking worrying- tory moving him into third place (Orica-Scott) - the two riders bat- help from Bauke Mollema, Adam Roland Garros campaign. Victory Frenchman, who was playing his overall at 43 seconds down. The tling for the best young rider's against Zverev avenged a defeat first clay court final, held serve Northern Ireland's Graeme ly - an ominous reminder from his Yates and Bob Jungels. McDowell slipped back on day 20th stage into Asiago came to life white jersey. They did their best "It all depends on the legs to- when Wawrinka last faced him, at throughout the match and broke Golovkin fight - and he sunk to his on the final climb of the 191km to close the gap but could not latch three, as a two-over 72 left him knees before the referee saved him. morrow." another Swiss tournament in Basel decisively in the last game to clinch stage from Pordenone, the Forza, on to the front five and Pozzovivo (Fox News) last October. "I would have hated his 15th ATP title. seven shots off the pace. (Sky Sport) as Ilnur Zakarin and Domenico (AG2R La Mondiale) made you if you had beaten me in two (Sky Sport) (Sky Sport) MONDAY . MAY 29. 2017-Jawza 08, 1396 H.S Vol:XI Issue No: 294 Price: Afs.20

AT News Report

ABUL: At least 13 pas AT News Report Helmand province, security agen- curity forces have been released The Taliban insurgent escaped the sengers died and two oth cy said on Sunday. In a press re- after the General Command of area without any confrontation. Kers received injures in a KABUL: Eleven people have been lease, the Ministry of Interior Police Special Unit forces stormed Provincial Police Chief, Maj. Gen. traffic accident in central Parwan NATO Secretary General Jens forces. We also need leadership, set free from Taliban’s captivity (MoI), said that eleven people, a Taliban jail in Naqalabad area late Aqa Noor Kentoz confirmed the province, provincial official said. Stoltenberg in an interview with better leadership.” in the Nad Ali district of southern including five civilians and six se- on Saturday, freeing the captives. release of the captives. Confirming the incident, the TOLOnews said that in return to Commenting on Stoltenberg’s Provincial Governor, Mohammad NATO’s assistance and support remarks, the Defense Ministry Asem Asem said that women and to Afghanistan, the organization deputy spokesman Mohammad children are among the victims. asks the Afghan government to Radmanish said the ministry is He added the passenger vehi- fight corruption, bring reforms and committed to fighting corruption MoD neither cle while passing the Salang dis- build reliable security institutions. in the security institution. trict was fallen into a river on Sat- Stoltenberg said the continua- “We continue our efforts to confirms nor urday night. tion of NATO’s support to Af- appoint talented and professional There is no denying to the fact ghanistan requires a number of con- leaders and we have had better that carelessness and recklessness ditions. achievements in our campaign rejects of drivers are the main factor be- “It is condition-based opera- against corruption,” Radmanish hind the car accidents in the coun- tion. And what we want in return told TOLOnews. prosecution try. is that Afghanistan continue to The Presidential Palace mean- The driver’s sloppiness is implement reforms to build strong while admitted that corruption is of Ex-209th ABUL : Afghanistan, Chi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, his They agreed to organise work- very clear to all, as in the last year and reliable security institutions still endemic in public offices. na and Pakistan have held Chinese counterpart Xiao Qian and shops, seminars and different fo- 17 passengers died and 38 others and also fight corruption and the “We accept that there is cor- their first round of trilater- Director General Khalid Payenda rums. Pakistan and China will ex- wounded in a traffic accident in fight against corruption is extreme- ruption in public offices, but we K the western Farah province. Pri- ly important because it weakens are committed to fighting the phe- corps al Practical Cooperation Dialogue from the Afghan Ministry of Fi- plore trilateral cooperation in ar- (PCD) in Beijing, the capital of nance. The three sides noted that eas of infrastructure, energy, edu- or to that 73 people were killed the armed forces of Afghanistan nomenon,” said Dawa Khan Mi- commander China, a media report said on Sun- trilateral cooperation among was cation, health, agriculture, human and dozens of other injured after but it also undermines political napal, President Ashraf Ghani’s day. conducive to peace, stability and resource training and capacity two passenger buses and a fuel support in NATO allied countries deputy spokesman. The three countries agreed to development of Afghanistan and building based on the needs of Af- tanker burst into flames follow- and partner countries to provide This comes after leaders of promote practical measures for the region. They appreciated the ghanistan and according to China ing a head-on collision in eastern support with training and also fi- NATO countries met in Brussels cooperation and exchanged views China-Pakistan Economic Corri- and Pakistan’s respective assis- Ghazni province. nancial support to Afghanistan,” on Thursday for a special meeting on deeper trilateral links during the dor and its benefits for promoting tance programmes for Afghanistan. According to some opinions he said. to discuss the fight against terror- meeting late on Saturday, accord- regional connectivity. By becoming a part of CPEC traffic accidents are the third big- He also talked about progress- ism and the alliance’s defense ing to Pakistani newspaper The They agreed to advance prac- in specific and OBOR in general, gest reason of deaths as compared es made in Afghanistan, saying that spending. Express Tribune. tical cooperation in various areas Afghanistan will have new vistas to violent conflicts and natural di- they are not sufficient. U.S President Donald Trump The dialogue was co-chaired so as to promote regional econom- and avenues to stabilise its econo- sasters. “We have seen a lot of also attended the Heads of State by Director General (DG) Man- ic integration under the framework my by enhancing trade opportu- progress. Just the fact that NATO meeting, which was his first visit soor Ahmad Khan from Pakistan’s of the Belt and Road Initiative. nities. (Pajhwok) is able to hand over the responsi- to NATO’s headquarters. NATO bility for security in Afghanistan is expected to commit a few thou- to Afghan forces and that Afghan sand more troops to Afghanistan forces have been able to push back – on the back of a request by every time Taliban has attacked,” NATO commander in Afghanistan HPCasks militants to shun he stated. “When it comes to Gen John Nicholson earlier this strengthening the Afghan forces in year. The decision however has not all ways for instance we are now yet been made, as mentioned last developing the Air Force. That is week by Stoltenberg. Some coun- violence in Ramadan extremely important and we are tries and some senior U.S officials making a lot of progress, more have questioned whether an in- KABUL: On the day two of the HPC wished a blessed and peace- and avoid things that could harm planes more helicopters more pi- crease in troop numbers would holy month of Ramadan, the High ful Ramadan to all Afghans and others. The HPC voiced on the lots and also strengthening and change the course of the war in efense Ministry neither Peace Council (HPC) on Sunday Muslims around the world. The parties to the ongoing conflict, par- educating more special operation Afghanistan. (ToloNews) confirmed nor rejected the called on militant groups to re- statement cited Islamic principles ticularly militants, to take serious prosecution of former nounce violence and join the peace about Ramadan, saying it was the steps for peace and stability in the commander of Afghan army’s process. In a statement received month of social interactions and country by availing Ramadan as a 209th Shaheen Corps, stressed in- by Pajhwok Afghan News, the encouragement to help each other chance to do so. (Pajhwok) vestigation is underway from 26 Aircraft saga: Cases people over the last month’s at- tack that killed many soldiers at of Bamiyan officials to the base. The Corps commander, Lieu- tenant General Mohmand land in AGO Sunday Katawazai was dismissed and re- portedly alleged of negligence in his duty, after the attack that killed SHIBERGHAN: As the holy more than 140 Afghan soldiers at month of Ramadan began, food Shaheen army base in northern items were distributed to 500 poor Balkh province. families in Shiberghan, the capital “It is not essential whether the The Independent Election Com- of northwestern Jawzjan province, commander is under investigation mission (IEC) has finalized a draft an official said Sunday. or not but when the Attorney Gen- plan for voters list with the hope Abdul Fatah Mushtaq, head of eral completed its investigation, that the next elections will be held the Hadaf Cultural Foundation court will announce its decision under the e-voting system, the IEC (HCF) that donated the aid, said about these people,” said Defense operational deputy chief Wasima around 500 families identified as Ministry Spokesman, Dawlat Badghisi said on Sunday. Badghisi economically vulnerable have been Waziri. said the draft plan was formulated introduced to the food distribution for an electronic system. “The Military analysts believe the programme. budget related to voters list has He said the families had been government is attempting to hide been finalized and soon it will be the facts related to the deadly inci- identified through a survey con- The Ministry of Interior Affairs law must be ruled on him,” said sent to relevant institutions. The ducted by HCF. The food distrib- dent. independent election commission on Saturday said the cases of three Sayed Ekram, an MP. “The government doesn’t uted to the families included ghee, police officials who illegally divert- “Our demand from the parlia- wants to prepare voters list by rice, sugar, beans, dates and maca- want to share information on the using e-system,” said Badghisi. ed a plane in Bamiyan Airport last ment and from our President roni, he said. week, will be sent to the Attorney (Ashraf Ghani) is to punish those deadly attacks and trying to hide “The commission wants to con- “The HCF has been active for the facts behind the incidents,” duct the next elections by using e- General’s Office (AGO) for fur- who are behind the incident in or- the past nine years in Shiberghan, ther investigation on Sunday. der to inform others about the rule said military analyst, Attiqullah voting system, but government distributing food items and sacri- Amarkhil. needs to provide budget for it,” The three officials are the po- of law on everyone,” said Hekmat- ficial meat to thousands of peo- ullah Shahbaz, a university lectur- Some MPs stressed the com- added Badghisi. Meanwhile, the on ensuring the credibility and le- tion commission and the ongoing lice chief of PD1 in Bamiyan, Bam- ple, as well as financially support- iyan MP Abdul Rahman Sha- er. This comes after two Bamiyan missions which set to probe such Presidential Palace has said that gitimacy of the electoral process. political issues between the poli- ing 50 children from poor families government has accelerated its ef- However, the IEC has said that $68 ticians, the chances for using the heedani’s son, and a security offi- MPs, including Shaheedani, report- incidents have not been indepen- in continuing higher education,” he cial from Bamiyan police. edly missed their flight in Kabul dent and the government has been forts to ensure the delivery of bud- million USD is required to execute e-voting system (in upcoming elec- said. Mushtaq added the HCF get for elections. “The Islamic the plan. Election monitoring tions) in the near future is very A number of MPs and analysts last week on Tuesday. On ap- involved behind its decisions. charity programme was ongoing. urged government to arrest Abdul proach at the Bamiyan airport, the “These commissions are not Republic of Afghanistan is com- groups and observers have raised less,” member of Election Watch Arifa, a blind woman who was mitted to ensuring budget and se- their hope that the new plan would Afghanistan Habibullah Shinwari Rahman Shaheedani, an MP from Kam Air plane, the MPs were impartial because some govern- among the aid recipients, said: Bamiyan, who is “the main sus- booked on, was prevented from ment officials are involved behind curity of elections,” President ensure transparency and legitima- said. Although the IEC has said “My husband is disabled and can’t Ashraf Ghani’s spokesman cy of the upcoming elections. “It that upcoming parliamentary and pect of the case”. landing and forced to return to each and every attack,” said par- walk. I have to support five chil- “The law has not been ruled Kabul. According to reports, rela- Shahussain Murtazawi said. The is a positive move for ensuring district councils’ elections would dren and encounter multiple prob- liament member, Jafar Mehdawi. IEC had initially announced that it transparency in the elections, but not take place this year, but the on powerful figures and leaders tives of the MPs converged on the This comes as the set probe lems meeting their needs. “I am even from the far pasts in Afghan- runway blocking the plane, which intended to call in local, regional the main issue is that whether all commission has assured that the happy with the aid I received to- commission has not yet shared the and international experts to assist parties and politicians are agreed assessment of all polling centers istan. This is the reason which was carrying 30 passengers, from hidden facts behind the incident, day,” she remarked, asking govern- motivated him (Shaheedani) to add landing. Kam Air officials have said with a strategic assessment around in this respect,” said Jandad Sp- in the country would be finalized ment officials not to forget the poor which according to some oversees implementing an e-voting system. inghar, chairman of Afghan Civil within the next one month and his name to the list of powerful the relatives of the MPs also threw during the month of Ramadan. figures. This act by him could have stones on the runway when the bodies, creates disbelieve among It is believed that the new voters Society Election Network. “In the there would be no ‘ghost election (Pajhwok) the people. (ATN) list would leave significant impact view of the capacity of the elec- centers’ in the future. taken dozens of lives; therefore, plane tried to land. (ToloNews)