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Kabul's markets were teeming on Friday in the countdown to the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr as Afghans disregarded government safety guidelines to contain rising coronavirus infections across the country.

Afghanistan had recorded 9,216 cases of COVID-19, the lung disease caused by the virus, and 205 deaths as of Friday, the health ministry said. The highest number of cases has been in Kabul, a city of six million that has been under a lockdown of varying intensity since March 28.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drastic-increase-in-attacks-on-civilians-in-afghanistan-300341">Also watch:&nbsp;Drastic increase in attacks on civilians in Afghanistan</a>

"It's almost two months that Afghans have been in quarantine and surely everyone has suffered a lot during this period," Ghulam Hussain, a Kabul resident at one busy market, told Reuters.

Prices for everything in the market have shot up during the lockdown, he added.

Two of the largest markets in the heart of Kabul visited by Reuters were packed, with most shoppers not wearing masks or gloves and not observing social distancing rules. &nbsp;

"I admit that everyone should observe the hygiene (guidelines) and follow the government and doctors` advice, but what about the attacks and killings that are happening in our country and claim the lives of our people daily?" asked Abdul Saleem, another shopper.

While there has been a partial relaxation of the lockdown, with Kabul`s local administration also announcing fresh guidelines for residents in the lead-up to Eid on Friday, people have been ignoring appeals to respect social distancing.

The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, will be observed either on Saturday or Sunday in Afghanistan, subject to the sighting of the moon.

Most shoppers visiting markets were looking for dried foods to make traditional Eid dishes and new clothes to mark the occassion. 
&nbsp;

Kabul's markets were teeming on Friday in the countdown to the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr as Afghans disregarded government safety guidelines to contain rising coronavirus infections across the country.

Kabul's markets were teeming on Friday in the countdown to the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr as Afghans disregarded government safety guidelines to contain rising coronavirus infections across the country. Afghanistan had recorded 9,216 cases of COVID-19, the lung disease caused by the virus, and 205 deaths as of Friday, the health ministry said. The highest number of cases has been in Kabul, a city of six million that has been under a lockdown of varying intensity since March 28. Also watch: Drastic increase in attacks on civilians in Afghanistan "It's almost two months that Afghans have been in quarantine and surely everyone has suffered a lot during this period," Ghulam Hussain, a Kabul resident at one busy market, told Reuters. Prices for everything in the market have shot up during the lockdown, he added. Two of the largest markets in the heart of Kabul visited by Reuters were packed, with most shoppers not wearing masks or gloves and not observing social distancing rules. "I admit that everyone should observe the hygiene (guidelines) and follow the government and doctors` advice, but what about the attacks and killings that are happening in our country and claim the lives of our people daily?" asked Abdul Saleem, another shopper. While there has been a partial relaxation of the lockdown, with Kabul`s local administration also announcing fresh guidelines for residents in the lead-up to Eid on Friday, people have been ignoring appeals to respect social distancing. The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, will be observed either on Saturday or Sunday in Afghanistan, subject to the sighting of the moon. Most shoppers visiting markets were looking for dried foods to make traditional Eid dishes and new clothes to mark the occassion.

Afghans throng markets ahead of Muslim holiday despite virus fears

The United States'&nbsp;special envoy for Afghanistan on Wednesday met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his former rival Abdullah Abdullah, to discuss progress towards a peace deal with the insurgent Taliban.

The meeting was the first between the three men since Ghani and Abdullah ended a months-long political impasse in which both claimed to be Afghanistan`s rightful leader.

The pair struck a power-sharing agreement on Sunday, removing a major obstacle to the US-brokered peace process and in which Abdullah was appointed head of a reconciliation council designated to hold talks with the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-mosque-attack-kills-eight-worshippers-breaking-ramzan-fast-299879">Also read:&nbsp;Afghan mosque attack kills eight worshippers breaking Ramzan fast</a>

Ghani said that during his meeting with Khalilzad, shortly before the three men met, they had discussed a ceasefire with the Taliban.

"Both sides talked about the upcoming steps for the peace process and both side stressed the issue of a ceasefire before the start of the inter-Afghan talks," Ghani's statement said, adding they discussed how to continue with a prisoner swap that the Taliban have demanded before beginning talks.

His statement made no mention of a $1 billion aid cut the United States announced in March when Abdullah and Ghani failed to strike a deal and which officials have asked be reinstated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/gunmen-kill-11-in-two-separate-attacks-afghanistan-officials-say-299878">Also read:&nbsp;Gunmen kill 11 in two separate attacks, Afghanistan officials say</a>

Khalilzad is in the region to escalate efforts to bring the Afghan government and the Taliban to the negotiating table after months of delays.

The Taliban has increased violence even after a February 29 US-Taliban pact on the withdrawal of US-led foreign forces in exchange for Taliban security guarantees.

In the latest attack in northeastern Takhar province on Tuesday evening the Taliban killed nine pro-government militia force members.

On Wednesday the Taliban's leader Haibatullah Akhundzada released a statement marking the Islamic celebration of Eid, calling for progress on the peace deal but also asking its fighters to stay "focused on their objectives" and "consolidate ... ranks", which government security officials criticised as inciting violence.

The United States' special envoy for Afghanistan on Wednesday met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his former rival Abdullah Abdullah, to discuss progress towards a peace deal with the insurgent Taliban.

The United States' special envoy for Afghanistan on Wednesday met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his former rival Abdullah Abdullah, to discuss progress towards a peace deal with the insurgent Taliban. The meeting was the first between the three men since Ghani and Abdullah ended a months-long political impasse in which both claimed to be Afghanistan`s rightful leader. The pair struck a power-sharing agreement on Sunday, removing a major obstacle to the US-brokered peace process and in which Abdullah was appointed head of a reconciliation council designated to hold talks with the Taliban. Also read: Afghan mosque attack kills eight worshippers breaking Ramzan fast Ghani said that during his meeting with Khalilzad, shortly before the three men met, they had discussed a ceasefire with the Taliban. "Both sides talked about the upcoming steps for the peace process and both side stressed the issue of a ceasefire before the start of the inter-Afghan talks," Ghani's statement said, adding they discussed how to continue with a prisoner swap that the Taliban have demanded before beginning talks. His statement made no mention of a $1 billion aid cut the United States announced in March when Abdullah and Ghani failed to strike a deal and which officials have asked be reinstated. Also read: Gunmen kill 11 in two separate attacks, Afghanistan officials say Khalilzad is in the region to escalate efforts to bring the Afghan government and the Taliban to the negotiating table after months of delays. The Taliban has increased violence even after a February 29 US-Taliban pact on the withdrawal of US-led foreign forces in exchange for Taliban security guarantees. In the latest attack in northeastern Takhar province on Tuesday evening the Taliban killed nine pro-government militia force members. On Wednesday the Taliban's leader Haibatullah Akhundzada released a statement marking the Islamic celebration of Eid, calling for progress on the peace deal but also asking its fighters to stay "focused on their objectives" and "consolidate ... ranks", which government security officials criticised as inciting violence.

US envoy meets Afghan president and former rival Abdullah in push for peace

In the latest in relentless violence that continues to plague the war-shattered Afghanistan,&nbsp;gunmen killed 11 people in two separate attacks on Wednesday.

In the first attack, at least eight people killed after gunmen waged a shooting spree at a mosque in central Afghanistan.

Five others were wounded during the horrific attack at the mosque in Parwan province, north of Kabul, where worshippers were kneeling on prayer rugs. The Ministry of Interior confirmed the attack in Parwan’s provincial capital Charekar, blaming it on the insurgent Taliban. The Taliban denied responsibility and said Afghan security forces were to blame.

In the second attack, three people were killed and one child was wounded after the gunmen fired on people outside a mosque as Ramadan night prayers were underway around 9:00 p.m. local time in Korchako village, Sabari district of eastern Khost province, 150 km southeast of the country's capital, Kabul.

The Afghan civilians continue to bear the brunt of armed conflicts as more than 500 civilians were killed and 760 others wounded due to fighting in Afghanistan in the first three months of 2020, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) announced on late April.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the latest in relentless violence that continues to plague the war-shattered Afghanistan, gunmen killed 11 people in two separate attacks on Wednesday. In the first attack, at least eight people killed after gunmen waged a shooting spree at a mosque in central Afghanistan.

In the latest in relentless violence that continues to plague the war-shattered Afghanistan, gunmen killed 11 people in two separate attacks on Wednesday. In the first attack, at least eight people killed after gunmen waged a shooting spree at a mosque in central Afghanistan. Five others were wounded during the horrific attack at the mosque in Parwan province, north of Kabul, where worshippers were kneeling on prayer rugs. The Ministry of Interior confirmed the attack in Parwan’s provincial capital Charekar, blaming it on the insurgent Taliban. The Taliban denied responsibility and said Afghan security forces were to blame. In the second attack, three people were killed and one child was wounded after the gunmen fired on people outside a mosque as Ramadan night prayers were underway around 9:00 p.m. local time in Korchako village, Sabari district of eastern Khost province, 150 km southeast of the country's capital, Kabul. The Afghan civilians continue to bear the brunt of armed conflicts as more than 500 civilians were killed and 760 others wounded due to fighting in Afghanistan in the first three months of 2020, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) announced on late April. (With inputs from agencies)

Gunmen kill 11 in two separate attacks, Afghanistan officials say

At least seven people were killed on Monday when a bomb-laden car exploded targeting an Afghan intelligence agency installation in the eastern province of Ghazni.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/us-says-islamic-state-conducted-the-attack-on-kabul-hospital-298864">Also read: US says Islamic State conducted the attack on Kabul hospital</a> 
 
"The terrorists have used a humvee in their attack. They have targeted the national directorate of security unit in Ghazni city," Wahidullah Jumazada, spokesman to the governor said.

He said 7 people were killed and 32 others were wounded.

"Most of the victims are intelligence personnel," he added. The interior ministry in Kabul and a health official in Ghazni also confirmed the attack.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the incident left tens of the special forces of the National Directorate of Security – the Afghan intelligence agency – dead and wounded.

The bombing comes a day after President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing accord in Kabul, ending their months-long bitter feud.

The accord, welcomed by Washington, paves the way for launching peace talks with the Taliban.

On Thursday, the Taliban detonated a truck close to a military building in Gardiz city in southeastern Paktia province, leaving five dead and 20 injured, including military and civilians.

Last week, the Taliban attacked a military checkpoint in the Alishang district of eastern Laghman province that left dozens dead or wounded.

(With inputs from AFP)

At least seven people were killed on Monday when a bomb-laden car exploded targeting an Afghan intelligence agency installation in the eastern province of Ghazni.

At least seven people were killed on Monday when a bomb-laden car exploded targeting an Afghan intelligence agency installation in the eastern province of Ghazni. Also read: US says Islamic State conducted the attack on Kabul hospital "The terrorists have used a humvee in their attack. They have targeted the national directorate of security unit in Ghazni city," Wahidullah Jumazada, spokesman to the governor said. He said 7 people were killed and 32 others were wounded. "Most of the victims are intelligence personnel," he added. The interior ministry in Kabul and a health official in Ghazni also confirmed the attack. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the incident left tens of the special forces of the National Directorate of Security – the Afghan intelligence agency – dead and wounded. The bombing comes a day after President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing accord in Kabul, ending their months-long bitter feud. The accord, welcomed by Washington, paves the way for launching peace talks with the Taliban. On Thursday, the Taliban detonated a truck close to a military building in Gardiz city in southeastern Paktia province, leaving five dead and 20 injured, including military and civilians. Last week, the Taliban attacked a military checkpoint in the Alishang district of eastern Laghman province that left dozens dead or wounded. (With inputs from AFP)

Seven killed in a car bomb attack on spy agency in Afghanistan

Pakistan has reopened its major border crossings with Afghanistan in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces for trade and movement of people, according to an official notification issued on Saturday.

The border crossings at Torkham in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Chaman in Balochistan were closed on March 27 as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. In April, they were opened for three days a week.

According to the notification, a decision about the opening of the border was taken at the meeting of the National Command and Operation Center.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-army-shells-forward-areas-along-loc-in-poonch-299160">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan Army shells forward areas along LoC in Poonch</a>

Both the border crossings will remain open around the clock for six days except for Saturdays which will be reserved for pedestrian movements.

The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will be implemented for pedestrians as well, the notification added.

During the six days, an unlimited number of trucks will be allowed to cross per day while ensuring proper SOPs and guidelines for both Afghan Bilateral Trade and Afghan Transit Trade.

The decision has been hailed by the business community, terming it a milestone in promotion of trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Pakistan has reopened its major border crossings with Afghanistan in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces for trade and movement of people, according to an official notification issued on Saturday.

Pakistan has reopened its major border crossings with Afghanistan in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces for trade and movement of people, according to an official notification issued on Saturday. The border crossings at Torkham in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Chaman in Balochistan were closed on March 27 as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. In April, they were opened for three days a week. According to the notification, a decision about the opening of the border was taken at the meeting of the National Command and Operation Center. Also read: Pakistan Army shells forward areas along LoC in Poonch Both the border crossings will remain open around the clock for six days except for Saturdays which will be reserved for pedestrian movements. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will be implemented for pedestrians as well, the notification added. During the six days, an unlimited number of trucks will be allowed to cross per day while ensuring proper SOPs and guidelines for both Afghan Bilateral Trade and Afghan Transit Trade. The decision has been hailed by the business community, terming it a milestone in promotion of trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Pakistan opens key border crossings with Afghanistan for trade

Speaking to media on a conference call,&nbsp;US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad said a new date for the&nbsp;intra-Afghan peace talks is under discussion. He also assured that an inclusive Afghan government will be formed soon.

Talking about his plans to travel soon to talk about release of prisoners, he said he feels that it would be best if the&nbsp;intra-Afghan talks began while there is still a significant U.S. military presence in Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/us-says-islamic-state-conducted-the-attack-on-kabul-hospital-298864">Also read:&nbsp;US says Islamic State conducted the attack on Kabul hospital</a>

Under a&nbsp;Feb. 29 U.S.-Taliban agreement for the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the talks had to happen on&nbsp;March 10. However, the release of prisoners, and the uncertainty and disagreements of&nbsp;Afghan government's composition delayed the talk.

Afghanistan was attacked twice in the past one week.&nbsp;One in a Kabul hospital's maternity ward and second at a funeral. More than 50 people died in these attacks, including kids. This raised questions on the US peace effort.

Khalilzad blamed ISIS for both the attacks, contrary to&nbsp;Afghan officials' claim that Taliban was responsible for the attack on the hospital, which killed two children.

"There are forces such as the ISIS that doesn't see peace in Afghanistan in its interest and are trying to increase violence to undermine the prospects for peace," Khalilzad told reporters. "We are urging both sides not to fall into that trap but indeed to cooperate against terrorists including ISIS. So, we want this to happen as soon as possible when now, we're still there in a significant way."

Talking about drawdown of AMerican troops from Afghanistan,&nbsp;Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said during a press briefing,&nbsp;"That is still going forward. We expect to meet that within the timeline laid out under the agreement with the Taliban."

(With inputs from Reuters)

Speaking to media on a conference call, US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad said a new date for the intra-Afghan peace talks is under discussion. He also assured that an inclusive Afghan government will be formed soon.

Speaking to media on a conference call, US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad said a new date for the intra-Afghan peace talks is under discussion. He also assured that an inclusive Afghan government will be formed soon. Talking about his plans to travel soon to talk about release of prisoners, he said he feels that it would be best if the intra-Afghan talks began while there is still a significant U.S. military presence in Afghanistan. Also read: US says Islamic State conducted the attack on Kabul hospital Under a Feb. 29 U.S.-Taliban agreement for the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the talks had to happen on March 10. However, the release of prisoners, and the uncertainty and disagreements of Afghan government's composition delayed the talk. Afghanistan was attacked twice in the past one week. One in a Kabul hospital's maternity ward and second at a funeral. More than 50 people died in these attacks, including kids. This raised questions on the US peace effort. Khalilzad blamed ISIS for both the attacks, contrary to Afghan officials' claim that Taliban was responsible for the attack on the hospital, which killed two children. "There are forces such as the ISIS that doesn't see peace in Afghanistan in its interest and are trying to increase violence to undermine the prospects for peace," Khalilzad told reporters. "We are urging both sides not to fall into that trap but indeed to cooperate against terrorists including ISIS. So, we want this to happen as soon as possible when now, we're still there in a significant way." Talking about drawdown of AMerican troops from Afghanistan, Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said during a press briefing, "That is still going forward. We expect to meet that within the timeline laid out under the agreement with the Taliban." (With inputs from Reuters)

New date for intra-Afghan peace talks in discussion: Zalmay Khalilzad

The United States on Thursday blamed Islamic State militants -- not the Taliban -- for a gruesome hospital attack in Afghanistan this week that killed two newborn babies, and it renewed calls for Afghans to embrace a troubled peace push with the Taliban insurgency.

But it was unclear if the U.S. declaration would be enough to bolster the peace effort and reverse a decision by the Kabul government to resume offensive operations against the Taliban.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani ordered the military on Tuesday to switch to "offensive mode" against the Taliban following the hospital attack in Kabul and a suicide bombing in Nangarhar province that killed scores of people.

U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad blamed Islamic State for both attacks in a statement issued on Twitter, saying the group opposed any Taliban peace agreement and sought to trigger an Iraq-style sectarian war in Afghanistan.

"Rather than falling into the ISIS trap and delay peace or create obstacles, Afghans must come together to crush this menace and pursue a historic peace opportunity," Khalilzad said.

"No more excuses. Afghans, and the world, deserve better."

An affiliate of the Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for the Nangarhar bombing, according to the SITE Intelligence Group. No one has claimed the hospital attack.&nbsp;

The Taliban denied involvement in either attack, but the government accused the group of fostering an environment in which terrorism thrives or of working with other militant groups who could have been involved, straining U.S. efforts to bring the insurgents and Afghan government together.

The attacks were another setback to U.S. President Donald Trump`s stalled plans to bring peace to Afghanistan and end America`s longest war.

A Feb. 29 U.S.-Taliban deal called for a phased U.S. troop withdrawal and for the Afghan government and Taliban to release some prisoners by March 10, when peace talks were to start.&nbsp;

Intra-Afghan peace talks have yet to occur and there is some bitterness within the Afghan government, which was not a party to the Feb. 29 deal, that the United States undercut their leverage by negotiating directly with the Taliban.

Ghani`s decision to revive offensive operations is supported by many opposition figures, who believe Washington`s sole focus is to keep the U.S. troop withdrawal plan on track to help Trump win a second term in the Nov. 3 U.S. presidential election.

The United States on Thursday blamed Islamic State militants -- not the Taliban -- for a gruesome hospital attack in Afghanistan this week that killed two newborn babies, and it renewed calls for Afghans to embrace a troubled peace push with the Taliban insurgency.

The United States on Thursday blamed Islamic State militants -- not the Taliban -- for a gruesome hospital attack in Afghanistan this week that killed two newborn babies, and it renewed calls for Afghans to embrace a troubled peace push with the Taliban insurgency. But it was unclear if the U.S. declaration would be enough to bolster the peace effort and reverse a decision by the Kabul government to resume offensive operations against the Taliban. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani ordered the military on Tuesday to switch to "offensive mode" against the Taliban following the hospital attack in Kabul and a suicide bombing in Nangarhar province that killed scores of people. U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad blamed Islamic State for both attacks in a statement issued on Twitter, saying the group opposed any Taliban peace agreement and sought to trigger an Iraq-style sectarian war in Afghanistan. "Rather than falling into the ISIS trap and delay peace or create obstacles, Afghans must come together to crush this menace and pursue a historic peace opportunity," Khalilzad said. "No more excuses. Afghans, and the world, deserve better." An affiliate of the Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for the Nangarhar bombing, according to the SITE Intelligence Group. No one has claimed the hospital attack. The Taliban denied involvement in either attack, but the government accused the group of fostering an environment in which terrorism thrives or of working with other militant groups who could have been involved, straining U.S. efforts to bring the insurgents and Afghan government together. The attacks were another setback to U.S. President Donald Trump`s stalled plans to bring peace to Afghanistan and end America`s longest war. A Feb. 29 U.S.-Taliban deal called for a phased U.S. troop withdrawal and for the Afghan government and Taliban to release some prisoners by March 10, when peace talks were to start. Intra-Afghan peace talks have yet to occur and there is some bitterness within the Afghan government, which was not a party to the Feb. 29 deal, that the United States undercut their leverage by negotiating directly with the Taliban. Ghani`s decision to revive offensive operations is supported by many opposition figures, who believe Washington`s sole focus is to keep the U.S. troop withdrawal plan on track to help Trump win a second term in the Nov. 3 U.S. presidential election.

US says Islamic State conducted the attack on Kabul hospital

Four back-to-back roadside bombs exploded in a northern district of Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Monday, wounding four civilians including a child, police said.

Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz said a clearance team was at the site of the attacks.

Militants have carried out several roadside bombings and rocket attacks in Kabul and other parts of the country in recent weeks, but Monday's four consecutive explosions appeared to be the first coordinated effort for some months.

The Taliban has not carried out any large attacks in the city since they signed a landmark withdrawal deal with the US in February, meant to pave the way for peace in the country.&nbsp;

No group has claimed the attacks.&nbsp;

The explosions come as authorities are trying to impose a lockdown in the capital to curb the spread of coronavirus in the country.

Four back-to-back roadside bombs exploded in a northern district of Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Monday, wounding four civilians including a child, police said.

Four back-to-back roadside bombs exploded in a northern district of Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Monday, wounding four civilians including a child, police said. Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz said a clearance team was at the site of the attacks. Militants have carried out several roadside bombings and rocket attacks in Kabul and other parts of the country in recent weeks, but Monday's four consecutive explosions appeared to be the first coordinated effort for some months. The Taliban has not carried out any large attacks in the city since they signed a landmark withdrawal deal with the US in February, meant to pave the way for peace in the country. No group has claimed the attacks. The explosions come as authorities are trying to impose a lockdown in the capital to curb the spread of coronavirus in the country.

Four back-to-back bomb explosions rock Kabul: Police

The US military called on the parties to the conflict in Afghanistan to settle the disagreements through political means and threatened with retaliatory actions if the Taliban militants did not reduce the scale of violence, Col. Sonny Leggett, spokesman for US forces in Afghanistan, said on Saturday.

Leggett sent a two-page letter to the Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, posted on Twitter. According to the US side, all parties must embark on the path of a "political solution" to the conflict, urging Afghans to sit down and start discussing the country`s future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-colonel-major-killed-in-kupwara-encounter-296332">Also read:&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter</a>

"Reducing violence is an absolute necessity--and this is up to the leaders of all military forces-- [Afghan National Security Forces] ANDSF, Taliban fighters and, yes, the Coalition. Attacks generate attacks, while restraint produces restraint. All sides must choose restraint to prevent more killing and violence," Leggett wrote on Twitter.

The Taliban spokesman responded to the call on his social media account, saying that the path to resolution of the conflict "lies in the implementation of the agreement concluded in Doha." He also called upon Washington not to "harm the current state of things".

On February 29, the US and the Taliban inked a peace agreement in the Qatari capital of Doha, according to which an intra-Afghan negotiation was scheduled to begin on March 10. The talks, however, failed to begin due to disagreements between Kabul and the Taliban, in particular on the subject of the prisoner exchange.&nbsp;

The US military called on the parties to the conflict in Afghanistan to settle the disagreements through political means and threatened with retaliatory actions if the Taliban militants did not reduce the scale of violence, Col.

The US military called on the parties to the conflict in Afghanistan to settle the disagreements through political means and threatened with retaliatory actions if the Taliban militants did not reduce the scale of violence, Col. Sonny Leggett, spokesman for US forces in Afghanistan, said on Saturday. Leggett sent a two-page letter to the Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, posted on Twitter. According to the US side, all parties must embark on the path of a "political solution" to the conflict, urging Afghans to sit down and start discussing the country`s future. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter "Reducing violence is an absolute necessity--and this is up to the leaders of all military forces-- [Afghan National Security Forces] ANDSF, Taliban fighters and, yes, the Coalition. Attacks generate attacks, while restraint produces restraint. All sides must choose restraint to prevent more killing and violence," Leggett wrote on Twitter. The Taliban spokesman responded to the call on his social media account, saying that the path to resolution of the conflict "lies in the implementation of the agreement concluded in Doha." He also called upon Washington not to "harm the current state of things". On February 29, the US and the Taliban inked a peace agreement in the Qatari capital of Doha, according to which an intra-Afghan negotiation was scheduled to begin on March 10. The talks, however, failed to begin due to disagreements between Kabul and the Taliban, in particular on the subject of the prisoner exchange.

US threatens Taliban with retaliatory actions if violence in Afghanistan continues

At least three civilians were killed, and four security personnel, including jail chief, wounded in an explosion near Laghman prison on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;

"Three civilians were killed in an explosion near #Laghman prison, and Four security people including Jail chief were wounded," Pajhwok Afghan News quoted provincial governor's spokesman Assadullah Dawlatzai as saying.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

Further details are awaited.&nbsp;

At least three civilians were killed, and four security personnel, including jail chief, wounded in an explosion near Laghman prison on Saturday. Also read: "Three civilians were killed in an explosion near #Laghman prison, and Four security people including Jail chief were wounded," Pajhwok Afghan News quoted provincial governor's spokesman Assadullah Dawlatzai as saying.

At least three civilians were killed, and four security personnel, including jail chief, wounded in an explosion near Laghman prison on Saturday. Also read: "Three civilians were killed in an explosion near #Laghman prison, and Four security people including Jail chief were wounded," Pajhwok Afghan News quoted provincial governor's spokesman Assadullah Dawlatzai as saying. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. Further details are awaited.

Afghanistan: 3 civilians killed, 4 security persons wounded in explosion near Laghman prison

The Afghan Health Ministry said that 49 new COVID-19 cases have been registered in the country in the past 24 hours, which led the total cases surge to 714 on Tuesday.

Kabul registered 18 new cases, maximum highest in the country, leaving behind Kandahar with 15 cases, Balkh 6 cases, Herat and Ghazni 4 new cases each, and Nangarhar 2 cases, according to the health ministry's data cited by Tolo News.

At least 40 people have recovered from the virus in the country while 23 have succumbed to the highly contagious infection, the Health Ministry spokesman said.

In the meantime, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive board approved immediate debt relief for 25 countries--including Afghanistan--in order to help these countries focus on COVID-19 response.

"Today, I am pleased to say that our Executive Board approved immediate debt service relief to 25 of the IMF's member countries under the IMF's revamped Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT) as part of the Fund's response to help address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, said in a statement.

"This provides grants to our poorest and most vulnerable members to cover their IMF debt obligations for an initial phase over the next six months and will help them channel more of their scarce financial resources towards vital emergency medical and other relief efforts," she added.

The IMF noted that the CCRT can currently provide about USD 500 million in grant-based debt service relief, including the recent USD 185 million pledge by Britain and USD 100 million provided by Japan as immediately available resources. While others, including China and the Netherlands, are also stepping forward with important contributions.

"I urge other donors to help us replenish the Trust's resources and boost further our ability to provide additional debt service relief for a full two years to our poorest member countries," Georgieva said further.

The countries receiving relief include Afghanistan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, D.R., The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Tajikistan, Togo, and Yemen.

The number of victims of the COVID-19 disease globally has reached more than 119,686, and nearly 1.9 million more have been infected with the virus, according to the compilations of US-based Johns Hopkins University.

The Afghan Health Ministry said that 49 new COVID-19 cases have been registered in the country in the past 24 hours, which led the total cases surge to 714 on Tuesday.

The Afghan Health Ministry said that 49 new COVID-19 cases have been registered in the country in the past 24 hours, which led the total cases surge to 714 on Tuesday. Kabul registered 18 new cases, maximum highest in the country, leaving behind Kandahar with 15 cases, Balkh 6 cases, Herat and Ghazni 4 new cases each, and Nangarhar 2 cases, according to the health ministry's data cited by Tolo News. At least 40 people have recovered from the virus in the country while 23 have succumbed to the highly contagious infection, the Health Ministry spokesman said. In the meantime, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive board approved immediate debt relief for 25 countries--including Afghanistan--in order to help these countries focus on COVID-19 response. "Today, I am pleased to say that our Executive Board approved immediate debt service relief to 25 of the IMF's member countries under the IMF's revamped Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT) as part of the Fund's response to help address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, said in a statement. "This provides grants to our poorest and most vulnerable members to cover their IMF debt obligations for an initial phase over the next six months and will help them channel more of their scarce financial resources towards vital emergency medical and other relief efforts," she added. The IMF noted that the CCRT can currently provide about USD 500 million in grant-based debt service relief, including the recent USD 185 million pledge by Britain and USD 100 million provided by Japan as immediately available resources. While others, including China and the Netherlands, are also stepping forward with important contributions. "I urge other donors to help us replenish the Trust's resources and boost further our ability to provide additional debt service relief for a full two years to our poorest member countries," Georgieva said further. The countries receiving relief include Afghanistan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, D.R., The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Tajikistan, Togo, and Yemen. The number of victims of the COVID-19 disease globally has reached more than 119,686, and nearly 1.9 million more have been infected with the virus, according to the compilations of US-based Johns Hopkins University.

Covid-19 cases in Afghanistan surge to 714, IMF gives debt relief

Registering its first overseas case, the NIA on Wednesday filed an FIR to probe the terror attack on a gurdwara in Afghanistan's capital Kabul last month that left 27 people including an Indian citizen dead.

This is the first case of its kind which the agency has registered after the recent amendments in the NIA Act which empower it to investigate terror cases that are committed at any place outside the country against Indian citizens or affecting the interest of India, the agency said in a statement.

The case was registered under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and anti-terror law.

Banned terror group Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), an offshoot of ISIS, claimed responsibility for the attack on March 25.

Registering its first overseas case, the NIA on Wednesday filed an FIR to probe the terror attack on a gurdwara in Afghanistan's capital Kabul last month that left 27 people including an Indian citizen dead.

Registering its first overseas case, the NIA on Wednesday filed an FIR to probe the terror attack on a gurdwara in Afghanistan's capital Kabul last month that left 27 people including an Indian citizen dead. This is the first case of its kind which the agency has registered after the recent amendments in the NIA Act which empower it to investigate terror cases that are committed at any place outside the country against Indian citizens or affecting the interest of India, the agency said in a statement. The case was registered under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and anti-terror law. Banned terror group Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), an offshoot of ISIS, claimed responsibility for the attack on March 25.

NIA to probe terror attack on gurdwara in Afghanistan; first overseas case registered by agency

The Afghan government expressed doubts Wednesday about a prospective deal between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/deadly-taliban-attack-in-afghan-capital-casts-shadow-on-peace-deal-247453">US and the Taliban</a>, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was in Kabul this week when he shared with Afghan officials an agreement "in principle" Washington has forged with the Taliban that would lead to a pull-out of American troops.

The prospect of a US-Taliban deal has engendered high anxiety among many Afghans, who feel sidelined from the process, worry the hardline Islamists will return to power, and see a beaten America selling out their interests in a bid to escape Afghanistan after 18 years of gruelling war.

Sediq Sediqqi, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's spokesman, said that while the Kabul administration supports any progress in an eventual peace process, it wants to prevent any negative consequences.

Kabul is "concerned, therefore we seek clarification about this document so that we can carefully analyse the risks and potential negative consequences, and prevent any danger it may cause," Sediqqi said on Twitter.

The statement is Kabul's first such reaction to the prospective deal, which Khalilzad presented on Monday.

Ghani and his government have until now been largely sidelined in negotiations between the US and the Taliban, who see Ghani as illegitimate and have insisted on dealing first with the Americans.

Kabul's concerns build on a position expressed Tuesday by former US ambassadors to Afghanistan, who warned in a joint statement against a major troop withdrawal without a comprehensive peace accord.

"A major withdrawal of US forces should follow, not come in advance, of (a) real peace agreement," the former envoys wrote.

According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull thousands of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan by early next year, provided the Taliban hew to their security pledges.&nbsp;

The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven.

Ultimately, though, Kabul has&nbsp;no say in whether the US and the Taliban make a deal, and can only hope the insurgents honour a pledge to sit down with the Afghan government to build a separate accord.

The Afghan government expressed doubts Wednesday about a prospective deal between the US and the Taliban, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses.

The Afghan government expressed doubts Wednesday about a prospective deal between the US and the Taliban, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses. US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was in Kabul this week when he shared with Afghan officials an agreement "in principle" Washington has forged with the Taliban that would lead to a pull-out of American troops. The prospect of a US-Taliban deal has engendered high anxiety among many Afghans, who feel sidelined from the process, worry the hardline Islamists will return to power, and see a beaten America selling out their interests in a bid to escape Afghanistan after 18 years of gruelling war. Sediq Sediqqi, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's spokesman, said that while the Kabul administration supports any progress in an eventual peace process, it wants to prevent any negative consequences. Kabul is "concerned, therefore we seek clarification about this document so that we can carefully analyse the risks and potential negative consequences, and prevent any danger it may cause," Sediqqi said on Twitter. The statement is Kabul's first such reaction to the prospective deal, which Khalilzad presented on Monday. Ghani and his government have until now been largely sidelined in negotiations between the US and the Taliban, who see Ghani as illegitimate and have insisted on dealing first with the Americans. Kabul's concerns build on a position expressed Tuesday by former US ambassadors to Afghanistan, who warned in a joint statement against a major troop withdrawal without a comprehensive peace accord. "A major withdrawal of US forces should follow, not come in advance, of (a) real peace agreement," the former envoys wrote. According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull thousands of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan by early next year, provided the Taliban hew to their security pledges. The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven. Ultimately, though, Kabul has no say in whether the US and the Taliban make a deal, and can only hope the insurgents honour a pledge to sit down with the Afghan government to build a separate accord.

Afghanistan 'concerned' about US-Taliban deal, seeks clarification: official

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India will be building a football ground and a sports facility in Afghanistan's western province of Ghor. The foundation stone was laid by Indian envoy Vinay Kumar along with Afghan minister for economy&nbsp;

Mustafa Mastoor on Saturday for 3 projected including a bridge and an educational institute.&nbsp;

It is not the first time India helping Afghanistan in sports. It is providing 2 "home grounds" in Greater Noida and Dehradun, build the Kandahar stadium, &nbsp;currently constructing a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif and provides technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan cricket board.

The projects are funded under India's high impact community development (HICDP) scheme implemented in the landlocked south Asian country by Indian govt.&nbsp;

<img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7125ec10-bf33-488c-bbc1-2c6b69bd7f1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29_2.jpg" />

A release by the Indian mission in Kabul said, "The govt of India reiterates its commitment to take India Afghanistan development partnership forward in accordance with the national priorities of the govt and the people of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan"

The Indian envoy also addressed a public gathering of University Students, teaching faculty in the Province in which he reiterated India's commitment for capacity building through its scholarship programmes for Afghan students.

India through its community development scheme since 2005 has supported over 550 projects throughout Afghanistan. Of these, around 345 projects have been completed while the remaining are in various stages of completion.&nbsp;

The projects are aimed at building basic infrastructure such as schools, public health centres, bridges, roads for local communities. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and since 2001 after the fall of Taliban undertaken projects and programmes over $2 billion.&nbsp;

Under its "new development partnership assistance" launched in 2016, New Delhi allocated an additional $1 billion for the next 5 years for development in Afghanistan.

India will be building a football ground and a sports facility in Afghanistan's western province of Ghor. The foundation stone was laid by Indian envoy Vinay Kumar along with Afghan minister for economy Mustafa Mastoor on Saturday for 3 projected including a bridge and an educational institute.

India will be building a football ground and a sports facility in Afghanistan's western province of Ghor. The foundation stone was laid by Indian envoy Vinay Kumar along with Afghan minister for economy Mustafa Mastoor on Saturday for 3 projected including a bridge and an educational institute. It is not the first time India helping Afghanistan in sports. It is providing 2 "home grounds" in Greater Noida and Dehradun, build the Kandahar stadium, currently constructing a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif and provides technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan cricket board. The projects are funded under India's high impact community development (HICDP) scheme implemented in the landlocked south Asian country by Indian govt. A release by the Indian mission in Kabul said, "The govt of India reiterates its commitment to take India Afghanistan development partnership forward in accordance with the national priorities of the govt and the people of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan" The Indian envoy also addressed a public gathering of University Students, teaching faculty in the Province in which he reiterated India's commitment for capacity building through its scholarship programmes for Afghan students. India through its community development scheme since 2005 has supported over 550 projects throughout Afghanistan. Of these, around 345 projects have been completed while the remaining are in various stages of completion. The projects are aimed at building basic infrastructure such as schools, public health centres, bridges, roads for local communities. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and since 2001 after the fall of Taliban undertaken projects and programmes over $2 billion. Under its "new development partnership assistance" launched in 2016, New Delhi allocated an additional $1 billion for the next 5 years for development in Afghanistan.

After cricket stadiums in Kandahar, Mazar-E-Sharif, India to build football ground in Afghanistan's Ghor province

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's Special Representative for Regional Affairs for Consensus on Peace, Mohammad Umer Daudzai, has arrived in New Delhi and will hold a meeting with External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

Daudzai is also the CEO of the High Peace Council, established to negotiate peace with the Taliban.

The former interior minister was appointed the special envoy in December of 2018 and was tasked with creating a regional consensus on the Afghan peace process.

Ahead of the visit Sayed Ihsan Taheri, Director Media to the high peace council said, "Everyone knows that India is one of the fewer states truly supporting Afghan-led Peace Process."

His presence in Delhi is a major development in the backdrop of increased engagement by India with regional countries and world powers on the Afghan peace process. New Delhi backs an "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled" peace process.

India, Russia meet on Afghanistan

On Wednesday, Joint secretary at Ministry of external affair's Pakistan Afghanistan and Iran desk, Deepak Mittal met Russia's Special Representative on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov in Moscow for bilateral Consultations on Afghanistan.

India last year had participated at Moscow talks on Afghanistan at a &nbsp;non-officially by sending two former envoys — Former Indian Ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha &amp; Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan.&nbsp;

India, Iran on Afghanistan

On Tuesday during Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif's 2 days India visit Afghanistan was discussed during his meetings with his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj.

Iran's Chabahar port plays a crucial role in India's connectivity plans with Afghanistan. During the meet, both sides expressed satisfaction at the operationalization of the interim contract on the &nbsp;Chabahar Port between India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO).

India, the US on Afghanistan

Last week US special representative on Afghanistan &nbsp;Zalmay Khalilzad visited India, his 2nd visit to New Delhi this year. A release from the US embassy on the visit said both sides "agreed that Afghan gains of the last 18 years must be preserved and built upon" and "Ambassador Khalilzad will continue to consult with Indian counterparts as the peace process moves forward."

While recognizing Indian contribution to Afghanistan's development, the release stated, "Afghanistan’s political future is for Afghans to decide through an inclusive and legitimate process."

India, China on Afghanistan

Chinese Special Envoy on Afghanistan Ambassador Deng Xijun also paid a visit to India last week on Friday during which he held discussions with Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.&nbsp;

Both sides agreed to "consult closely on the evolving situation in Afghanistan" and "carry forward" the decision taken by PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during informal Wuhan summit on joint cooperation in Afghanistan.

Since then both countries have jointly trained Afghan diplomats in New Delhi and Bejing.

India is the largest donor to the landlocked South Asian country in the region with development assistance exceeding $3 billion and has built several infrastructure projects in the country including the Afghan parliament and the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat province.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's Special Representative for Regional Affairs for Consensus on Peace, Mohammad Umer Daudzai, has arrived in New Delhi and will hold a meeting with External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's Special Representative for Regional Affairs for Consensus on Peace, Mohammad Umer Daudzai, has arrived in New Delhi and will hold a meeting with External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. Daudzai is also the CEO of the High Peace Council, established to negotiate peace with the Taliban. The former interior minister was appointed the special envoy in December of 2018 and was tasked with creating a regional consensus on the Afghan peace process. Ahead of the visit Sayed Ihsan Taheri, Director Media to the high peace council said, "Everyone knows that India is one of the fewer states truly supporting Afghan-led Peace Process." His presence in Delhi is a major development in the backdrop of increased engagement by India with regional countries and world powers on the Afghan peace process. New Delhi backs an "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled" peace process. India, Russia meet on Afghanistan On Wednesday, Joint secretary at Ministry of external affair's Pakistan Afghanistan and Iran desk, Deepak Mittal met Russia's Special Representative on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov in Moscow for bilateral Consultations on Afghanistan. India last year had participated at Moscow talks on Afghanistan at a non-officially by sending two former envoys — Former Indian Ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha & Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan. India, Iran on Afghanistan On Tuesday during Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif's 2 days India visit Afghanistan was discussed during his meetings with his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj. Iran's Chabahar port plays a crucial role in India's connectivity plans with Afghanistan. During the meet, both sides expressed satisfaction at the operationalization of the interim contract on the Chabahar Port between India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO). India, the US on Afghanistan Last week US special representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad visited India, his 2nd visit to New Delhi this year. A release from the US embassy on the visit said both sides "agreed that Afghan gains of the last 18 years must be preserved and built upon" and "Ambassador Khalilzad will continue to consult with Indian counterparts as the peace process moves forward." While recognizing Indian contribution to Afghanistan's development, the release stated, "Afghanistan’s political future is for Afghans to decide through an inclusive and legitimate process." India, China on Afghanistan Chinese Special Envoy on Afghanistan Ambassador Deng Xijun also paid a visit to India last week on Friday during which he held discussions with Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. Both sides agreed to "consult closely on the evolving situation in Afghanistan" and "carry forward" the decision taken by PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during informal Wuhan summit on joint cooperation in Afghanistan. Since then both countries have jointly trained Afghan diplomats in New Delhi and Bejing. India is the largest donor to the landlocked South Asian country in the region with development assistance exceeding $3 billion and has built several infrastructure projects in the country including the Afghan parliament and the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat province.

Ashraf Ghani's special envoy reaches Delhi as India increases engagement with other forces on Afghan peace process

Afghanistan's usually bustling capital Kabul slowed to a crawl Tuesday amid massive security for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-gather-in-kabul-for-afghan-peace-meeting-214371/amp">high-stakes peace summit</a> that has previously been a target for insurgent attacks.

Police flooded the city and authorities blocked off key roads around the venue of the so-called "loya jirga" -- where some 3,000 tribal elders, religious figures, and politicians from across Afghanistan are gathering over four days to discuss possible conditions for a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-peace-if-taliban-do-not-adapt-us-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-214206"> peace deal with the Taliban</a>.

Taliban suicide bombers armed with rockets and guns attacked a 2010 peace jirga at the same venue, and in 2011, two rockets were fired into Kabul during a two-day jirga.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-caliphate-collapse-jihadists-head-to-afghanistan-to-plot-attacks-214689">After 'caliphate' collapse, jihadists head to Afghanistan to plot attacks: US officials</a>

Despite such past attacks, Kabul residents are infuriated with the scale of the lockdown, which has already been blamed for at least one death and has paralysed businesses in what would ordinarily be a busy week before Ramadan begins.

Local media reported that a newborn baby died when the father, who was trying to take the infant to a hospital, was blocked by security forces.

Adding to the slowdown, authorities have declared a week-long public holiday in Kabul.

"Yesterday, I could only take two passengers from one part of the city to the other. It took me three hours to complete a 15-minute ride," Nasrullah, a taxi driver who gave only his first name, told AFP.&nbsp;

Shopkeeper Taj Mohammad said poor people had been particularly impacted.

"It is good to provide security for the participants, but that should not cost people's businesses," Mohammad said.

Siam Pasarly, an economics expert, estimated the holidays were costing the business community $1 million a day.&nbsp;

"Afghanistan is a developing country and its economic engine should be running all day," he said. "A week-long shutdown is like a poison to the economy."

The loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is being held as the US and Taliban are discussing a possible foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and various Taliban pledges.

The jirga is seen as an attempt by the Afghan government to influence the peace talks which so far have cut out President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge.

But some prominent Afghans, presidential hopefuls, and government officials including the country's Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah have boycotted the assembly.&nbsp;

Ahmad Khan, another taxi driver, bemoaned the meeting as a "waste of time".

"Holding this jirga is an economic blow for poor labour like us, who come out in the morning for a morsel of food, and how can we provide food for our families in the next few days," he told AFP.

"Such jirgas have been held in the past with no positive results, and the government have failed to convince the Taliban to join the talks." 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan's usually bustling capital Kabul slowed to a crawl Tuesday amid massive security for a high-stakes peace summit that has previously been a target for insurgent attacks.

Afghanistan's usually bustling capital Kabul slowed to a crawl Tuesday amid massive security for a high-stakes peace summit that has previously been a target for insurgent attacks. Police flooded the city and authorities blocked off key roads around the venue of the so-called "loya jirga" -- where some 3,000 tribal elders, religious figures, and politicians from across Afghanistan are gathering over four days to discuss possible conditions for a peace deal with the Taliban. Taliban suicide bombers armed with rockets and guns attacked a 2010 peace jirga at the same venue, and in 2011, two rockets were fired into Kabul during a two-day jirga. Also read: After 'caliphate' collapse, jihadists head to Afghanistan to plot attacks: US officials Despite such past attacks, Kabul residents are infuriated with the scale of the lockdown, which has already been blamed for at least one death and has paralysed businesses in what would ordinarily be a busy week before Ramadan begins. Local media reported that a newborn baby died when the father, who was trying to take the infant to a hospital, was blocked by security forces. Adding to the slowdown, authorities have declared a week-long public holiday in Kabul. "Yesterday, I could only take two passengers from one part of the city to the other. It took me three hours to complete a 15-minute ride," Nasrullah, a taxi driver who gave only his first name, told AFP. Shopkeeper Taj Mohammad said poor people had been particularly impacted. "It is good to provide security for the participants, but that should not cost people's businesses," Mohammad said. Siam Pasarly, an economics expert, estimated the holidays were costing the business community $1 million a day. "Afghanistan is a developing country and its economic engine should be running all day," he said. "A week-long shutdown is like a poison to the economy." The loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is being held as the US and Taliban are discussing a possible foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and various Taliban pledges. The jirga is seen as an attempt by the Afghan government to influence the peace talks which so far have cut out President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge. But some prominent Afghans, presidential hopefuls, and government officials including the country's Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah have boycotted the assembly. Ahmad Khan, another taxi driver, bemoaned the meeting as a "waste of time". "Holding this jirga is an economic blow for poor labour like us, who come out in the morning for a morsel of food, and how can we provide food for our families in the next few days," he told AFP. "Such jirgas have been held in the past with no positive results, and the government have failed to convince the Taliban to join the talks."

Kabul on lockdown as assembly discusses peace with the Taliban

The 17th legislative term of the Wolesi Jirga, or the Afghan Parliament, was inaugurated on Friday by President Ashraf Ghani, even though the final results of five provinces is awaited.

As per the law, the parliament was supposed to be inaugurated earlier but was delayed due to "controversies", according to TOLO news.

The parliament inauguration was attended by senior government officials and new lawmakers.

Addressing the ceremony, the Afghan President highlighted that the majority of the new parliament members are from a younger generation who will protect women`s rights, human rights and other rights of Afghans.

He added that the Afghan government had no role to play in the delay of the parliament inauguration.

Ghani, during his address, said that the current challenges in Afghanistan are because of the "imposed war" which has been fueled by "direct foreign support" of the Taliban.

He reinforced that he would remain President of Afghanistan until the next Presidential elections, slated for September 28.

The Afghan leader highlighted that the key to peace lies in unity among Afghans and in women`s participation, adding that the republic system would continue

The 17th legislative term of the Wolesi Jirga, or the Afghan Parliament, was inaugurated on Friday by President Ashraf Ghani, even though the final results of five provinces is awaited.

The 17th legislative term of the Wolesi Jirga, or the Afghan Parliament, was inaugurated on Friday by President Ashraf Ghani, even though the final results of five provinces is awaited. As per the law, the parliament was supposed to be inaugurated earlier but was delayed due to "controversies", according to TOLO news. The parliament inauguration was attended by senior government officials and new lawmakers. Addressing the ceremony, the Afghan President highlighted that the majority of the new parliament members are from a younger generation who will protect women`s rights, human rights and other rights of Afghans. He added that the Afghan government had no role to play in the delay of the parliament inauguration. Ghani, during his address, said that the current challenges in Afghanistan are because of the "imposed war" which has been fueled by "direct foreign support" of the Taliban. He reinforced that he would remain President of Afghanistan until the next Presidential elections, slated for September 28. The Afghan leader highlighted that the key to peace lies in unity among Afghans and in women`s participation, adding that the republic system would continue

17th legislative term of Afghan Parliament inaugurated

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Pakistan and Turkey will be hosting a trilateral summit with Afghanistan in Istanbul to discuss on sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Tolo News reported that the bilateral talks would commence as the local elections conclude in Turkey in March.

Addressing a joint press conference in Turkey with his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, "The people of Afghanistan have been suffering for over three decades. Pakistan is already helping dialogue between the Taliban and Americans. I look forward to the summit meeting in Istanbul, where we hope that Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey will be able to help in this peace process."

"Acknowledged that sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan could be achieved through reconciliation of all segments of the Afghan society with the support of the regional countries and the international community," read a press statement released by Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry on January 4.

This comes as Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmoud Qureshi met Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara on Friday.

During the meeting, Khan and Erdogan further extended strong mutual support to one another on all issues of core national interest and expressed commitment to further enhance their bilateral relations in every field to the benefit of their peoples, the statement said.

The leaders also reiterated the importance of the Turkey-Pakistan High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council mechanism and discussed on expanding defence and defence industry cooperation a strengthening the existing economic, trade and commercial relations between the two countries.

Pakistan and Turkey will be hosting a trilateral summit with Afghanistan in Istanbul to discuss on sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan. Tolo News reported that the bilateral talks would commence as the local elections conclude in Turkey in March.

Pakistan and Turkey will be hosting a trilateral summit with Afghanistan in Istanbul to discuss on sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan. Tolo News reported that the bilateral talks would commence as the local elections conclude in Turkey in March. Addressing a joint press conference in Turkey with his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, "The people of Afghanistan have been suffering for over three decades. Pakistan is already helping dialogue between the Taliban and Americans. I look forward to the summit meeting in Istanbul, where we hope that Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey will be able to help in this peace process." "Acknowledged that sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan could be achieved through reconciliation of all segments of the Afghan society with the support of the regional countries and the international community," read a press statement released by Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry on January 4. This comes as Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmoud Qureshi met Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara on Friday. During the meeting, Khan and Erdogan further extended strong mutual support to one another on all issues of core national interest and expressed commitment to further enhance their bilateral relations in every field to the benefit of their peoples, the statement said. The leaders also reiterated the importance of the Turkey-Pakistan High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council mechanism and discussed on expanding defence and defence industry cooperation a strengthening the existing economic, trade and commercial relations between the two countries.

Turkey, Pakistan to host trilateral summit on Afghan peace reconciliation

At least 22 police were killed in a Taliban ambush in western Afghanistan, a health official said Monday, in another blow to Afghan forces already suffering record casualties.&nbsp;

The attack on the police convoy in Farah province on Sunday also wounded at least two officers, said Shir Ahmad Weda, director of the public hospital in the provincial capital.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack in a WhatsApp message, saying 25 police were killed and four wounded.

"Four vehicles were destroyed and a large quantity of weapons were seized," Qari Yousuf Ahmadi, a spokesman for the militants, added.

The Taliban have stepped up attacks on Afghan security forces in recent months, inflicting record casualties even as efforts to engage the militants in peace talks intensify.&nbsp;

At least 22 police were killed in a Taliban ambush in western Afghanistan, a health official said Monday, in another blow to Afghan forces already suffering record casualties.

At least 22 police were killed in a Taliban ambush in western Afghanistan, a health official said Monday, in another blow to Afghan forces already suffering record casualties. The attack on the police convoy in Farah province on Sunday also wounded at least two officers, said Shir Ahmad Weda, director of the public hospital in the provincial capital. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack in a WhatsApp message, saying 25 police were killed and four wounded. "Four vehicles were destroyed and a large quantity of weapons were seized," Qari Yousuf Ahmadi, a spokesman for the militants, added. The Taliban have stepped up attacks on Afghan security forces in recent months, inflicting record casualties even as efforts to engage the militants in peace talks intensify.

At least 22 Afghan police killed in Taliban ambush: Official

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