A group of artists climbed ladders up one of the many blast walls snaking through the Afghan capital Kabul this week to paint a mural of George Floyd in solidarity with the anti-racism protests kindled by his death in police custody.

Floyd, an African American, died on May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes while detaining him. Medical examiners ruled it a homicide and the officer was charged with second-degree murder.

"George Floyd is a global figure now and he was killed in the United States because of the blackness of his skin," said Afghan artist Mehr Aqa Sultani, a member of local arts activist group ArtLords that painted the mural. "We want to say 'no' to discrimination because discrimination has no benefit for us."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/topple-the-racists-a-map-showing-all-of-the-racist-statues-in-britain-305219">Also read:&nbsp;'Topple the Racists': A map showing all of the 'racist' statues in Britain</a>

A video of Floyd's death sparked protests around the United States and the world against racism and police brutality in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.

ArtLords have a high-profile presence in Kabul, painting messages of social justice and peace on the many blast walls that have been erected to protect buildings from militant bombs.

Next to its mural of Floyd, the group painted a man with arms outstretched against the Iranian flag in reference to alleged abuses by Iranian police and border guards against Afghan migrants and refugees in recent months.

After walking past the mural, Kabul resident Dost Muhammad Momand said it had been painful to watch the video of Floyd's death and that he identified with the constant fear of violence.

"When that helpless man wanted to escape death, the police did not release him and caused his death," he said. "I also live in a country that has witnessed war for 40 years, a war in which discrimination exists."

A group of artists climbed ladders up one of the many blast walls snaking through the Afghan capital Kabul this week to paint a mural of George Floyd in solidarity with the anti-racism protests kindled by his death in police custody.

A group of artists climbed ladders up one of the many blast walls snaking through the Afghan capital Kabul this week to paint a mural of George Floyd in solidarity with the anti-racism protests kindled by his death in police custody. Floyd, an African American, died on May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes while detaining him. Medical examiners ruled it a homicide and the officer was charged with second-degree murder. "George Floyd is a global figure now and he was killed in the United States because of the blackness of his skin," said Afghan artist Mehr Aqa Sultani, a member of local arts activist group ArtLords that painted the mural. "We want to say 'no' to discrimination because discrimination has no benefit for us." Also read: 'Topple the Racists': A map showing all of the 'racist' statues in Britain A video of Floyd's death sparked protests around the United States and the world against racism and police brutality in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. ArtLords have a high-profile presence in Kabul, painting messages of social justice and peace on the many blast walls that have been erected to protect buildings from militant bombs. Next to its mural of Floyd, the group painted a man with arms outstretched against the Iranian flag in reference to alleged abuses by Iranian police and border guards against Afghan migrants and refugees in recent months. After walking past the mural, Kabul resident Dost Muhammad Momand said it had been painful to watch the video of Floyd's death and that he identified with the constant fear of violence. "When that helpless man wanted to escape death, the police did not release him and caused his death," he said. "I also live in a country that has witnessed war for 40 years, a war in which discrimination exists."

Afghan artists paint mural on blast wall in tribute to George Floyd

Afghan authorities are opening prison doors for thousands of Taliban inmates in a high-risk gambit to ensure the insurgent group begins peace talks with Kabul.

Security concerns are mounting as several of the newly liberated fighters say they are ready to resume their holy war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-struggles-to-control-coronavirus-spread-despite-earlier-boast-303204">Afghanistan: Taliban struggles to control coronavirus spread despite earlier boast</a>

"If the Americans do not pull out, we will continue our jihad, because they have killed many Afghans in their operations," said Mohamed Daud, who was freed from Bagram jail north of Kabul last month.

"We do not want foreign forces in our country anymore," he told AFP, dressed in a traditional shalwar kameez, before taking a taxi back to his village with a cash handout from authorities worth $65.

US forces arrested Daud, 28, in the northwest province of Faryab nine years ago.

Afghan authorities accelerated the planned release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners, including Daud, as a "goodwill gesture" after the insurgents called a three-day ceasefire to mark the Eid holiday.

A security official said those flagged by the Taliban for release include aspiring suicide bombers, suicide vest makers, kidnappers and even foreign fighters.

The move is part of a larger prisoner swap agreed as a precursor to the start of peace talks.

Before their release, inmates were required to sign a pledge that they would not pick up arms again. It is increasingly clear such commitments mean little.

A Taliban commander in Pakistan told AFP there should be "no ambiguity" that the released men will eventually be deployed to Afghanistan's front lines.

"It's an ongoing jihad, and will continue until and unless we reach some sort of agreement with the Kabul government," he said.

A Taliban spokesman who represents insurgent fighting forces did not respond to a request for comment, but the group's political spokesman Suhail Shaheen rejected claims prisoners would rejoin the fight, saying the Taliban had enough "active and reserve forces".

"We do not need any manpower in the battlefield, because we are entering the intra-Afghan negotiations," Shaheen told AFP.

Win-win situation?&nbsp;

Several freed insurgents say they remain angry at US troops, but under a US-Taliban deal signed in February, the insurgents committed to stop attacking American and foreign forces as they withdraw from the country by next year.

The immediate enemy is instead the struggling Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF), with whom no such pledge has been made.

A key concession Washington extracted from the Taliban during negotiations was the requirement to begin peace talks with Kabul.

In return, the Afghan government must release 5,000 insurgent inmates while the Taliban pledged to free 1,000 security force prisoners.

Since the swap started, Afghan authorities have freed 3,000 Taliban inmates while the insurgents have released more than 750 government prisoners, officials said.

It could represent a boost of up to 10 percent for the Taliban, with estimates on the number of insurgents ranging between 50,000 and 100,000.

Afghan security officials said the US did not consult them before Washington and the Taliban finalised the prisoner swap.

More than the fighters, "those that worry us are the brains", a senior security official said, adding that one of the freed Taliban inmates had already joined the insurgents' military squad while another had committed a murder.

The Taliban heralded the US deal as proof they had defeated America in its longest war, and the bluster has only grown in recent months.

"Politics and negotiations should not be taken to mean that we will neglect jihadi affairs and the strengthening and development of our jihadi military force," Taliban deputy leader Sirajuddin Haqqani said in a recent broadcast.

The Taliban now find themselves in a win-win situation -- even if peace talks with Kabul fail.

With its key donor calling the shots, the Afghan government had no choice but to yield to Washington's demand to proceed with the exchange.

Still, some observers hold out hope for successful peace talks that would bring an end to Afghanistan's 19-year-old war.

"These talks hold a better hope for a lasting ceasefire than any other current approach," said Andrew Watkins, an analyst with International Crisis Group.

"Swift initiation of talks is the best way to eliminate that threat."

No start date has been set for the talks.

Afghan authorities are opening prison doors for thousands of Taliban inmates in a high-risk gambit to ensure the insurgent group begins peace talks with Kabul. Security concerns are mounting as several of the newly liberated fighters say they are ready to resume their holy war.

Afghan authorities are opening prison doors for thousands of Taliban inmates in a high-risk gambit to ensure the insurgent group begins peace talks with Kabul. Security concerns are mounting as several of the newly liberated fighters say they are ready to resume their holy war. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban struggles to control coronavirus spread despite earlier boast "If the Americans do not pull out, we will continue our jihad, because they have killed many Afghans in their operations," said Mohamed Daud, who was freed from Bagram jail north of Kabul last month. "We do not want foreign forces in our country anymore," he told AFP, dressed in a traditional shalwar kameez, before taking a taxi back to his village with a cash handout from authorities worth $65. US forces arrested Daud, 28, in the northwest province of Faryab nine years ago. Afghan authorities accelerated the planned release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners, including Daud, as a "goodwill gesture" after the insurgents called a three-day ceasefire to mark the Eid holiday. A security official said those flagged by the Taliban for release include aspiring suicide bombers, suicide vest makers, kidnappers and even foreign fighters. The move is part of a larger prisoner swap agreed as a precursor to the start of peace talks. Before their release, inmates were required to sign a pledge that they would not pick up arms again. It is increasingly clear such commitments mean little. A Taliban commander in Pakistan told AFP there should be "no ambiguity" that the released men will eventually be deployed to Afghanistan's front lines. "It's an ongoing jihad, and will continue until and unless we reach some sort of agreement with the Kabul government," he said. A Taliban spokesman who represents insurgent fighting forces did not respond to a request for comment, but the group's political spokesman Suhail Shaheen rejected claims prisoners would rejoin the fight, saying the Taliban had enough "active and reserve forces". "We do not need any manpower in the battlefield, because we are entering the intra-Afghan negotiations," Shaheen told AFP. Win-win situation? Several freed insurgents say they remain angry at US troops, but under a US-Taliban deal signed in February, the insurgents committed to stop attacking American and foreign forces as they withdraw from the country by next year. The immediate enemy is instead the struggling Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF), with whom no such pledge has been made. A key concession Washington extracted from the Taliban during negotiations was the requirement to begin peace talks with Kabul. In return, the Afghan government must release 5,000 insurgent inmates while the Taliban pledged to free 1,000 security force prisoners. Since the swap started, Afghan authorities have freed 3,000 Taliban inmates while the insurgents have released more than 750 government prisoners, officials said. It could represent a boost of up to 10 percent for the Taliban, with estimates on the number of insurgents ranging between 50,000 and 100,000. Afghan security officials said the US did not consult them before Washington and the Taliban finalised the prisoner swap. More than the fighters, "those that worry us are the brains", a senior security official said, adding that one of the freed Taliban inmates had already joined the insurgents' military squad while another had committed a murder. The Taliban heralded the US deal as proof they had defeated America in its longest war, and the bluster has only grown in recent months. "Politics and negotiations should not be taken to mean that we will neglect jihadi affairs and the strengthening and development of our jihadi military force," Taliban deputy leader Sirajuddin Haqqani said in a recent broadcast. The Taliban now find themselves in a win-win situation -- even if peace talks with Kabul fail. With its key donor calling the shots, the Afghan government had no choice but to yield to Washington's demand to proceed with the exchange. Still, some observers hold out hope for successful peace talks that would bring an end to Afghanistan's 19-year-old war. "These talks hold a better hope for a lasting ceasefire than any other current approach," said Andrew Watkins, an analyst with International Crisis Group. "Swift initiation of talks is the best way to eliminate that threat." No start date has been set for the talks.

Afghanistan: Freed Taliban prisoners seek return to battlefield

US President Donald Trump on Thursday issued an executive order authorising sanctions against individuals involved in an International Criminal Court investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan.

A senior Trump administration official, without providing details, said the ICC investigation is "being pushed forward by an organisation of dubious integrity" and accused Russia of having a role.

The order authorises Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in consultation with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, to block assets in the United States of ICC employees involved in the probe, the official said.

It also authorizes Pompeo to block entry into the United States of these individuals. 
Trump has repeatedly assailed The Hague-based ICC set up to prosecute war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. It has jurisdiction only if a member state is unable or unwilling to prosecute atrocities itself.

Afghanistan is a member of the ICC, though Kabul has argued that any war crimes should be prosecuted locally. The US government has never been a member of the court, established in 2002. The Trump administration imposed travel restrictions and other sanctions against ICC employees a year ago.

The ICC decided to investigate after prosecutors’ preliminary examination in 2017 found reasonable grounds to believe war crimes were committed in Afghanistan and that the ICC has jurisdiction.

The senior administration official, describing the order to a group of reporters on a conference call, said the directive authorizes sanctions against any individual directly engaged in any effort by the ICC to investigate US personnel without American consent. 
The official said the probe threatens to infringe on American sovereignty and that while the ICC was established to provide accountability, "in practice the court is an unaccountable, ineffective and out-of-control international bureaucracy that threatens American service members and intelligence officers and those of our allies.”

ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda wants to investigate possible crimes committed between 2003 and 2014, including alleged mass killings of civilians by the Taliban, as well as the alleged torture of prisoners by Afghan authorities and, to a lesser extent, by US forces and the CIA.

"We have reason to believe there is corruption and misconduct at the highest levels of the ICC’s office of prosecutor, calling into question the integrity of this investigation into American personnel. We are concerned that Russia may be manipulating the ICC by encouraging these allegations into US personnel," the US official said.

(with inputs from Reuters)

US President Donald Trump on Thursday issued an executive order authorising sanctions against individuals involved in an International Criminal Court investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday issued an executive order authorising sanctions against individuals involved in an International Criminal Court investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan. A senior Trump administration official, without providing details, said the ICC investigation is "being pushed forward by an organisation of dubious integrity" and accused Russia of having a role. The order authorises Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in consultation with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, to block assets in the United States of ICC employees involved in the probe, the official said. It also authorizes Pompeo to block entry into the United States of these individuals. Trump has repeatedly assailed The Hague-based ICC set up to prosecute war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. It has jurisdiction only if a member state is unable or unwilling to prosecute atrocities itself. Afghanistan is a member of the ICC, though Kabul has argued that any war crimes should be prosecuted locally. The US government has never been a member of the court, established in 2002. The Trump administration imposed travel restrictions and other sanctions against ICC employees a year ago. The ICC decided to investigate after prosecutors’ preliminary examination in 2017 found reasonable grounds to believe war crimes were committed in Afghanistan and that the ICC has jurisdiction. The senior administration official, describing the order to a group of reporters on a conference call, said the directive authorizes sanctions against any individual directly engaged in any effort by the ICC to investigate US personnel without American consent. The official said the probe threatens to infringe on American sovereignty and that while the ICC was established to provide accountability, "in practice the court is an unaccountable, ineffective and out-of-control international bureaucracy that threatens American service members and intelligence officers and those of our allies.” ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda wants to investigate possible crimes committed between 2003 and 2014, including alleged mass killings of civilians by the Taliban, as well as the alleged torture of prisoners by Afghan authorities and, to a lesser extent, by US forces and the CIA. "We have reason to believe there is corruption and misconduct at the highest levels of the ICC’s office of prosecutor, calling into question the integrity of this investigation into American personnel. We are concerned that Russia may be manipulating the ICC by encouraging these allegations into US personnel," the US official said. (with inputs from Reuters)

Trump authorises sanctions over ICC Afghanistan war crimes case

Afghanistan wants to extend lockdown restrictions by another three months. But, the citizens are struggling to survive.

Afghans defy social distancing restrictions in Kabul

Battered by decades of civil war, the global fight on terror and now the coronavirus pandemic, Afghanistan continues to face one crippling crisis after another.

To control the spread of the Wuhan virus, the Ashraf Ghani government wants Afghanistan to live under restrictions for another 3 months.

But in a country battered by decades of violence, people have no choice but to go out and earn their daily bread. The pandemic has severely impacted the livelihoods of communities across the country and thousands of people are out on the streets and not even half of them are sporting a mask.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-struggles-to-control-coronavirus-spread-despite-earlier-boast-303204">Also Read: Afghanistan: Taliban struggles to control coronavirus spread despite earlier boast</a>

Facing economic distress, workers, migrants, small business owners and the poor say they have no choice, but to work. Afghan government now faces a tough choice - whether or not to enforce the restrictions with an iron fist.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-afghanistans-covid-19-battle-wion-ground-report-304652/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Afghanistan has officially reported over 21,400 cases and 384 deaths, but international observers and medics on the ground believe the real number of infections could be much higher. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emergency-health-measures-including-school-closures-saved-millions-in-six-coronavirus-hit-countries-study-304384">Also Read: Emergency health measures saved millions in six coronavirus-hit countries: Study</a> 
 
There are parts of the country that are under the control of the militant Taliban group where it is hard for the government to access data.

An overall shortage of testing kits, medical supplies and a dilapidated health system were compounding problems in tackling the spread.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Battered by decades of civil war, the global fight on terror and now the coronavirus pandemic, Afghanistan continues to face one crippling crisis after another. To control the spread of the Wuhan virus, the Ashraf Ghani government wants Afghanistan to live under restrictions for another 3 months.

Battered by decades of civil war, the global fight on terror and now the coronavirus pandemic, Afghanistan continues to face one crippling crisis after another. To control the spread of the Wuhan virus, the Ashraf Ghani government wants Afghanistan to live under restrictions for another 3 months. But in a country battered by decades of violence, people have no choice but to go out and earn their daily bread. The pandemic has severely impacted the livelihoods of communities across the country and thousands of people are out on the streets and not even half of them are sporting a mask. Also Read: Afghanistan: Taliban struggles to control coronavirus spread despite earlier boast Facing economic distress, workers, migrants, small business owners and the poor say they have no choice, but to work. Afghan government now faces a tough choice - whether or not to enforce the restrictions with an iron fist. Afghanistan has officially reported over 21,400 cases and 384 deaths, but international observers and medics on the ground believe the real number of infections could be much higher. Also Read: Emergency health measures saved millions in six coronavirus-hit countries: Study There are parts of the country that are under the control of the militant Taliban group where it is hard for the government to access data. An overall shortage of testing kits, medical supplies and a dilapidated health system were compounding problems in tackling the spread. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Coronavirus pandemic a grim addition to woes of people in Afghanistan

Afghanistan wants to extend lockdown restrictions by another three months. But, the citizens are struggling to survive. Even during the pandemic, the country suffered violence. Wion gets you a ground report from Kabul.

Gravitas: Afghanistan's COVID-19 Battle | Wion ground report

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted.

The UN report said that around 6,500 Pakistani nationals were among foreign terrorists operating in Afghanistan and that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba are engaged in trafficking fighters into that country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/us-spl-envoy-khalilzad-pak-army-chief-bajwa-discuss-afghan-peace-process-304210">US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process</a>

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Friday that the international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism".

On Monday, the Foreign Office said in a statement that even the remarks of Prime Minister Khan were completely twisted by India.

"This mischievous attempt is highly condemnable," it said.

It claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs' comments are in continuation of their campaign to divert international attention from Kashmir.

"Pakistan has been the principal victim of terrorism, including terrorism perpetrated against our people from across the border,"&nbsp;it said.

"It is India that is seeking to distort and misrepresent the report of the UN Security Council's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team to promote its anti-Pakistan propaganda. We are sure that the world community will not be misled,"&nbsp;the FO claimed.

Pakistan's role as a facilitator to the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan has been widely acknowledged by the relevant international partners, it said.

"We wish to reiterate that all relevant partner countries must guard against such attempts, while supporting the process for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan,"&nbsp;it added.

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted.

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted. The UN report said that around 6,500 Pakistani nationals were among foreign terrorists operating in Afghanistan and that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba are engaged in trafficking fighters into that country. Also read | US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Friday that the international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism". On Monday, the Foreign Office said in a statement that even the remarks of Prime Minister Khan were completely twisted by India. "This mischievous attempt is highly condemnable," it said. It claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs' comments are in continuation of their campaign to divert international attention from Kashmir. "Pakistan has been the principal victim of terrorism, including terrorism perpetrated against our people from across the border," it said. "It is India that is seeking to distort and misrepresent the report of the UN Security Council's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team to promote its anti-Pakistan propaganda. We are sure that the world community will not be misled," the FO claimed. Pakistan's role as a facilitator to the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan has been widely acknowledged by the relevant international partners, it said. "We wish to reiterate that all relevant partner countries must guard against such attempts, while supporting the process for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan," it added.

Pakistan rejects UN report which claimed its terror groups operating in Afghanistan

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday.

Khalilzad visited Islamabad on Sunday and held talks with Bajwa on the Afghan peace process. He is travelling to Qatar, Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of efforts to bring peace in the war-torn country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/intra-afghan-talks-to-be-held-in-doha-304080">Also read:&nbsp;Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha</a>

During the three-nation tour, Khalilzad will review commitments in the recently signed US-Taliban Agreement and the US-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, specifically reducing violence and prisoner releases. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001.

The US embassy said in a statement that in the meeting with General Bajwa, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of intra-Afghan negotiations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-warns-of-disaster-as-virus-infections-surge-303866">Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan warns of 'disaster' as virus infections surge</a>

"The two took note of recent progress created by the Eid ceasefire and accelerated prisoner releases as well as reduced violence ahead of intra-Afghan negotiations,"&nbsp;it said.

Khalilzad "expressed his appreciation for the role Prime Minister Imran Khan and General Bajwa are playing in support of peace in Afghanistan," it said.

They agreed that peace in Afghanistan offers an unprecedented opportunity to advance security, connectivity and development for the region, it said.

Earlier, the Pakistan Army said on Sunday that "matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, including Afghan refugees issue/Afghan reconciliation process and Pak-Afghan border management were discussed"&nbsp;in the meeting. 
It said that the two sides shared steps taken towards this and agreed to continue working towards mutually agreed goals, it said.

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday.

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday. Khalilzad visited Islamabad on Sunday and held talks with Bajwa on the Afghan peace process. He is travelling to Qatar, Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of efforts to bring peace in the war-torn country. Also read: Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha During the three-nation tour, Khalilzad will review commitments in the recently signed US-Taliban Agreement and the US-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, specifically reducing violence and prisoner releases. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001. The US embassy said in a statement that in the meeting with General Bajwa, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of intra-Afghan negotiations. Also read: Afghanistan warns of 'disaster' as virus infections surge "The two took note of recent progress created by the Eid ceasefire and accelerated prisoner releases as well as reduced violence ahead of intra-Afghan negotiations," it said. Khalilzad "expressed his appreciation for the role Prime Minister Imran Khan and General Bajwa are playing in support of peace in Afghanistan," it said. They agreed that peace in Afghanistan offers an unprecedented opportunity to advance security, connectivity and development for the region, it said. Earlier, the Pakistan Army said on Sunday that "matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, including Afghan refugees issue/Afghan reconciliation process and Pak-Afghan border management were discussed" in the meeting. It said that the two sides shared steps taken towards this and agreed to continue working towards mutually agreed goals, it said.

US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process

The negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government will be held in Qatar`s Doha.According to TOLO News, the exact date of the meeting has not yet been revealed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-sees-highest-inflation-in-the-world-during-2020-sbp-304002" hreflang="en">Pakistan sees highest inflation in the world during 2020: SBP</a>

Meanwhile, the government has agreed to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners before the talks, as per sources close to the Taliban.

"The Afghan government has taken important steps in this process. The negotiation team of the Afghan government is ready to enter the talks and we have a strong national consensus for the peace process," the Presidential spokesman Sediq Sediqqi was quoted as saying.

Till date, the government has released more than 2,700 prisoners and the Talinab have released 458 government prisoners.

The negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government will be held in Qatar`s Doha.According to TOLO News, the exact date of the meeting has not yet been revealed.

The negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government will be held in Qatar`s Doha.According to TOLO News, the exact date of the meeting has not yet been revealed. Also read: Pakistan sees highest inflation in the world during 2020: SBP Meanwhile, the government has agreed to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners before the talks, as per sources close to the Taliban. "The Afghan government has taken important steps in this process. The negotiation team of the Afghan government is ready to enter the talks and we have a strong national consensus for the peace process," the Presidential spokesman Sediq Sediqqi was quoted as saying. Till date, the government has released more than 2,700 prisoners and the Talinab have released 458 government prisoners.

Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha

The Taliban boasted of their readiness to fight the deadly coronavirus when it first reached Afghanistan, but now the insurgents are struggling to curb its spread in their strongholds.

For months, Habib Rahman, a resident of a Taliban-controlled area in the south of the country, has been unable to test whether his persistent cough is due to the virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/roadside-bomb-kills-9-civilians-in-southern-afghanistan-302988">Roadside bomb kills 9 civilians in southern Afghanistan</a>

"I have a cough, fever and chest pain," said Rahman, 32, who owns a grocery store in Helmand province.

"There is neither a centre here to diagnose or treat coronavirus patients, nor is there any effort to create awareness of the disease.

Official figures show Afghanistan has more than 17,000 confirmed cases -- including thousands in Taliban-controlled territories.

But an overall shortage of testing kits, medical supplies and a dilapidated health system were compounding problems in tackling the spread, said Ahmed Saeedi, an independent analyst.

Years of war have left Afghanistan with a crumbling health sector, hampering the government's fight against COVID-19.

In an attempt to bolster their narrative that they can run Afghanistan better than the struggling administration, the Taliban launched a campaign to tackle the virus in March.

They posted images online showing insurgents distributing masks and soap to villagers -- albeit without any social distancing.

In one image, masked militants wearing white protective suits check residents' temperatures and explain about personal hygiene as a machinegun is seen on a nearby table.

Disbelief about virus&nbsp;

The virus entered Afghanistan as infected migrants returned from neighbouring Iran, the region's worst-hit country, and the Taliban ordered hundreds of returnees into quarantine.

In some areas they controlled, the insurgents allowed government health officials to monitor the virus's spread -- something rare for a group blamed for the deaths of dozens of medics over the years.

But in recent weeks, residents from provinces such as Kunduz, Helmand, Uruzgan and Kandahar -- where the Taliban hold sway over large areas -- complain they have been abandoned to their fate.

In Kunduz, where the militants fought a fierce night battle before a short nationwide ceasefire last month, insurgents have barred medics.

"They said they would handle the virus on their own," said Sebghatullah, a doctor from a nearby district, worried about the residents' lack of awareness when it came to personal hygiene.

Haji Qudratullah, a resident of Helmand, said he recently saw a group of Taliban fighters film a promotional video at a neighbourhood clinic, but they never returned.&nbsp;

"I have not seen anybody do anything to raise awareness about the virus here," he said.

Taliban commanders insist they are helping fight the virus.

"People who are suffering from high fever, cough and body pain... are taken to Trinkot," said Hafez Mohammad, a Taliban commander, referring to the capital of Uruzgan province.

Even during the Taliban's rule in the late 1990s, Afghanistan's health sector was hit by poor infrastructure, little international aid and underpaid medics.

The disease is also sweeping through the Taliban itself, with several high-level militants believed to be sick with COVID-19, according to international media reports. The group deny any of their senior leaders are ill.

'Transgression against religion'&nbsp;

In his annual message marking the Eid holiday, the Taliban's top leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, urged people to seek medical help for the disease.

But he also insisted the virus was caused by mankind's "transgression against Allah's religion".

To stop the virus, people should "seek forgiveness from Allah and stop violating his commands", Akhundzada said.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the militants had distributed booklets explaining how to prevent infections.

"Our mobile teams, using motorcycles, are taking people with symptoms to the hospitals," Mujahid told AFP.

Experts, however, said the insurgents faced an uphill task.

"There is no ambulance or a professional team that can take their samples or treat these suspected patients," health official Hamid Ahmadi said.

Residents, meanwhile, say they have little information on what to do.

"Many people are complaining from flu-like symptoms... we don't know why," said Haji Abdul Bari in Helmand.

"Nobody has told us about the symptoms of corona. We don't know anything about it." 
&nbsp;

The Taliban boasted of their readiness to fight the deadly coronavirus when it first reached Afghanistan, but now the insurgents are struggling to curb its spread in their strongholds.

The Taliban boasted of their readiness to fight the deadly coronavirus when it first reached Afghanistan, but now the insurgents are struggling to curb its spread in their strongholds. For months, Habib Rahman, a resident of a Taliban-controlled area in the south of the country, has been unable to test whether his persistent cough is due to the virus. Also read | Roadside bomb kills 9 civilians in southern Afghanistan "I have a cough, fever and chest pain," said Rahman, 32, who owns a grocery store in Helmand province. "There is neither a centre here to diagnose or treat coronavirus patients, nor is there any effort to create awareness of the disease. Official figures show Afghanistan has more than 17,000 confirmed cases -- including thousands in Taliban-controlled territories. But an overall shortage of testing kits, medical supplies and a dilapidated health system were compounding problems in tackling the spread, said Ahmed Saeedi, an independent analyst. Years of war have left Afghanistan with a crumbling health sector, hampering the government's fight against COVID-19. In an attempt to bolster their narrative that they can run Afghanistan better than the struggling administration, the Taliban launched a campaign to tackle the virus in March. They posted images online showing insurgents distributing masks and soap to villagers -- albeit without any social distancing. In one image, masked militants wearing white protective suits check residents' temperatures and explain about personal hygiene as a machinegun is seen on a nearby table. Disbelief about virus The virus entered Afghanistan as infected migrants returned from neighbouring Iran, the region's worst-hit country, and the Taliban ordered hundreds of returnees into quarantine. In some areas they controlled, the insurgents allowed government health officials to monitor the virus's spread -- something rare for a group blamed for the deaths of dozens of medics over the years. But in recent weeks, residents from provinces such as Kunduz, Helmand, Uruzgan and Kandahar -- where the Taliban hold sway over large areas -- complain they have been abandoned to their fate. In Kunduz, where the militants fought a fierce night battle before a short nationwide ceasefire last month, insurgents have barred medics. "They said they would handle the virus on their own," said Sebghatullah, a doctor from a nearby district, worried about the residents' lack of awareness when it came to personal hygiene. Haji Qudratullah, a resident of Helmand, said he recently saw a group of Taliban fighters film a promotional video at a neighbourhood clinic, but they never returned. "I have not seen anybody do anything to raise awareness about the virus here," he said. Taliban commanders insist they are helping fight the virus. "People who are suffering from high fever, cough and body pain... are taken to Trinkot," said Hafez Mohammad, a Taliban commander, referring to the capital of Uruzgan province. Even during the Taliban's rule in the late 1990s, Afghanistan's health sector was hit by poor infrastructure, little international aid and underpaid medics. The disease is also sweeping through the Taliban itself, with several high-level militants believed to be sick with COVID-19, according to international media reports. The group deny any of their senior leaders are ill. 'Transgression against religion' In his annual message marking the Eid holiday, the Taliban's top leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, urged people to seek medical help for the disease. But he also insisted the virus was caused by mankind's "transgression against Allah's religion". To stop the virus, people should "seek forgiveness from Allah and stop violating his commands", Akhundzada said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the militants had distributed booklets explaining how to prevent infections. "Our mobile teams, using motorcycles, are taking people with symptoms to the hospitals," Mujahid told AFP. Experts, however, said the insurgents faced an uphill task. "There is no ambulance or a professional team that can take their samples or treat these suspected patients," health official Hamid Ahmadi said. Residents, meanwhile, say they have little information on what to do. "Many people are complaining from flu-like symptoms... we don't know why," said Haji Abdul Bari in Helmand. "Nobody has told us about the symptoms of corona. We don't know anything about it."

Afghanistan: Taliban struggles to control coronavirus spread despite earlier boast

Following a report submitted to the United Nations that says that there are 6,500 Pakistanis among other foreign terrorist fighters in Afghanistan

Pakistan Remains An Epicentre Of Global Terrorism

A roadside bomb tore through a small bus in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing nine civilians including women and children, officials said. 
 
The bombing, which occurred in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, came a day after a blast in a mosque in Kabul's fortified Green Zone killed two people including a well-known imam. 
 
Nine people died and five others were wounded when a roadside bomb struck their bus in Arghistan district of Kandahar province, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barekzai said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mosque-blast-in-kabul-kills-2-including-an-imam-302903" hreflang="en">Mosque Blast in Kabul kills 2, including an imam</a> 
 
Several victims were women and children, said Baheer Ahmad Ahmadi, spokesman to the provincial governor, who also confirmed the toll. 
 
No one claimed the Kandahar attack, but Barekzai blamed the Taliban. 
 
In Kabul on Tuesday, an imam and a worshipper were killed in a prayer-time bombing at a popular mosque in the fortified Green Zone in Kabul. 
 
That bombing, which the Taliban condemned, came a day after seven civilians were killed in the north of the country in a roadside bombing&nbsp;authorities blamed on the insurgents. 
 
On Wednesday, the UN mission in Afghanistan said homemade bombs used by the Taliban to target Afghan security forces have killed at least 10 civilians in the past two days.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bomb-in-afghanistan-capital-targets-tv-bus-journalist-and-driver-killed-302045" hreflang="en">Bomb in Afghanistan capital targets TV bus; journalist and driver killed</a> 
 
The UN urged the militants to "stop using these illegal improvised mines". 
 
Despite these attacks, overall violence across much of Afghanistan has dropped since May 24 when the Taliban instigated a rare three-day ceasefire to mark the Eid al-Fitr holiday. 
 
Officials have acknowledged a lull in violence, though they blamed the militants for some deadly attacks in recent days. &nbsp; 
 
Before the ceasefire, violence had surged since the Taliban signed a landmark agreement with the United States in February. 
 
The deal paves the way for the withdrawal of all foreign forces by May next year. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A roadside bomb tore through a small bus in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing nine civilians including women and children, officials said. The bombing, which occurred in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, came a day after a blast in a mosque in Kabul's fortified Green Zone killed two people including a well-known imam.

A roadside bomb tore through a small bus in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing nine civilians including women and children, officials said. The bombing, which occurred in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, came a day after a blast in a mosque in Kabul's fortified Green Zone killed two people including a well-known imam. Nine people died and five others were wounded when a roadside bomb struck their bus in Arghistan district of Kandahar province, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barekzai said. Also read: Mosque Blast in Kabul kills 2, including an imam Several victims were women and children, said Baheer Ahmad Ahmadi, spokesman to the provincial governor, who also confirmed the toll. No one claimed the Kandahar attack, but Barekzai blamed the Taliban. In Kabul on Tuesday, an imam and a worshipper were killed in a prayer-time bombing at a popular mosque in the fortified Green Zone in Kabul. That bombing, which the Taliban condemned, came a day after seven civilians were killed in the north of the country in a roadside bombing authorities blamed on the insurgents. On Wednesday, the UN mission in Afghanistan said homemade bombs used by the Taliban to target Afghan security forces have killed at least 10 civilians in the past two days. Also read: Bomb in Afghanistan capital targets TV bus; journalist and driver killed The UN urged the militants to "stop using these illegal improvised mines". Despite these attacks, overall violence across much of Afghanistan has dropped since May 24 when the Taliban instigated a rare three-day ceasefire to mark the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Officials have acknowledged a lull in violence, though they blamed the militants for some deadly attacks in recent days. Before the ceasefire, violence had surged since the Taliban signed a landmark agreement with the United States in February. The deal paves the way for the withdrawal of all foreign forces by May next year.

Roadside bomb kills 9 civilians in southern Afghanistan

United Nations report says that there are 6,500 Pakistani insurgents in Afghanistan. The monitoring team's annual report to the United Nation's Security Council has said that out of 6,500 radicals over 1000 belong to Pakistan terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: 6,500 Pakistani insurgents in Afghanistan, Taliban defies landmark peace deal

A United Nations report has said that about 6,500 Pakistanis as foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

A United Nations report has said that about 6,500 Pakistanis as foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them, the report said. The UN monitoring team in its annual technical update to United Nations Security Council said, "The number of foreign terrorist fighters in search of a purpose and livelihood in Afghanistan, including up to 6,500 Pakistanis, will render this a complex challenge, which will require careful monitoring. Quoting Afghan officials, the report said, during Afghanistan visit that officials had told them, "Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba (are) among those groups posing a security threat". According to Afghan interlocutors, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba facilitate the trafficking of terrorist fighters into Afghanistan, who act as advisers, trainers and specialists in improvised explosive devices and "both groups are responsible for carrying out targeted assassinations against government officials and others." Location of LeT and JeM according to UN report is Mohmand Darah, Dur Baba and Sherzad districts of Nangarhar Province. In Kunar Province, Lashkar-e-Taiba retains a further 220 fighters and Jaish-e-Mohammed has a further 30, all of whom are dispersed within Taliban forces. Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan also has its presence in the country, with one member state in the UN report said," reported that the total number of Pakistani nationals fighting with terrorist groups in Afghanistan may be as high as 6,000 to 6,500." Highlighting the narcotic smuggling networks, the report said, according to member state, "networks operate in Nangarhar (eastern province bordering Pakistan) and into Pakistan" and with "acquiescence of security officials who regulate and profit from smuggling of heroin, hashish". The revenues are "ultimately shared between security officials, heads of the smuggling syndicates (known as Tanzeems) and Taliban" and this is a "big source of revenue for the Taliban", the report noted. District smugglers pay tax to Taliban district commander of Rs 200 Pakistani Rs ($1.30) per kilogram of heroin and smugglers are provided documentation by each Taliban commander certifying payment of tax before proceeding to next district. The UN monitoring team was informed about illicit extraction of gold, copper, aragonite, tin by Taliban in districts not under Afghan govt control and interestingly mining companies in Balochistan province of Pakistan are involved in excavating the precious minerals. The minerals are refined in Karachi and sold as products in Pakistan. The report highlighted the links between the Taliban and al-Qaeda as well. The report said, "Relations between the Taliban, especially the Haqqani Network and al-Qaeda remain close, based on friendship, a history of shared struggle, ideological sympathy and intermarriage."

1,000 JeM and LeT terrorists among 6,500 Pak fighters in Afghanistan: UN report

A journalist and a driver were killed and at least six people were wounded when a private bus carrying employees of an Afghan television station was bombed in Kabul on Saturday, said the director of Khurshid TV.

A preliminary probe showed a bomb attached by magnets to a bus used by Khurshid TV employees was blown up during the evening rush hour. No militant group claimed responsibility for the attack.

"We can confirm that a journalist and a driver were killed on the spot," said Khurshid TV’s director Jawid Farhad, but gave no further details.

Last year two employees of Khurshid TV were killed and two were injured in a similar attack.

Taliban and other Islamist insurgents have repeatedly targeted Afghan journalists, killing 15 in 2018, the deadliest year yet for the Afghan media, according to the media freedom group Reporters Without Borders.

Last year the Taliban warned the Afghan media to stop broadcasting what it called "anti-Taliban statements".

In 2016, a Taliban suicide bomber rammed his car into a bus carrying employees of Tolo TV, the country's largest private broadcaster, killing seven journalists.

The Taliban claimed Tolo was producing propaganda for the US military and western-backed Afghan government.

A journalist and a driver were killed and at least six people were wounded when a private bus carrying employees of an Afghan television station was bombed in Kabul on Saturday, said the director of Khurshid TV.

A journalist and a driver were killed and at least six people were wounded when a private bus carrying employees of an Afghan television station was bombed in Kabul on Saturday, said the director of Khurshid TV. A preliminary probe showed a bomb attached by magnets to a bus used by Khurshid TV employees was blown up during the evening rush hour. No militant group claimed responsibility for the attack. "We can confirm that a journalist and a driver were killed on the spot," said Khurshid TV’s director Jawid Farhad, but gave no further details. Last year two employees of Khurshid TV were killed and two were injured in a similar attack. Taliban and other Islamist insurgents have repeatedly targeted Afghan journalists, killing 15 in 2018, the deadliest year yet for the Afghan media, according to the media freedom group Reporters Without Borders. Last year the Taliban warned the Afghan media to stop broadcasting what it called "anti-Taliban statements". In 2016, a Taliban suicide bomber rammed his car into a bus carrying employees of Tolo TV, the country's largest private broadcaster, killing seven journalists. The Taliban claimed Tolo was producing propaganda for the US military and western-backed Afghan government.

Bomb in Afghanistan capital targets TV bus; journalist and driver killed

Two children died after a bomb exploded on a motorcycle in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar on Friday, Jamal Nasir, the spokesman for the local police, told Sputnik, adding that the blast also injured five civilians.

"Two children were killed and 5 other people were injured in the explosion," Nasir said, adding that the bomb exploded in the evening hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-seven-security-personnel-killed-govt-blames-taliban-301585">Also read|&nbsp;Afghanistan: Seven security personnel killed, govt blames Taliban</a>

According to the spokesman, the incident happened in the fifth district of the city.

No group has taken responsibility for the attack yet.

Two children died after a bomb exploded on a motorcycle in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar on Friday, Jamal Nasir, the spokesman for the local police, told Sputnik, adding that the blast also injured five civilians.

Two children died after a bomb exploded on a motorcycle in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar on Friday, Jamal Nasir, the spokesman for the local police, told Sputnik, adding that the blast also injured five civilians. "Two children were killed and 5 other people were injured in the explosion," Nasir said, adding that the bomb exploded in the evening hours. Also read| Afghanistan: Seven security personnel killed, govt blames Taliban According to the spokesman, the incident happened in the fifth district of the city. No group has taken responsibility for the attack yet.

Bomb blast in southern Afghanistan kills two children - police

Afghan transit trade through Pakistan's Gwadar port became operational on Friday. This is the first sea trade between the two countries.

The first cargo ship berthed at the port on Friday.&nbsp;Adviser to Prime Minister for Commerce and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood announced the development on social media.

The trade commenced under the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement-2010.

"The cargo ship SIBULK TRADITION has berthed at Gwadar, carrying 16,000 tonnes of urea for transit to Afghanistan. This is a first and marks the beginning of a new era in Pakistan's trade by sea," he tweeted.

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The cargo ship SIBULK TRADITION has berthed at Gwadar, carrying 16000 Tonnes of urea for Transit to Afghanistan. This is a first and marks the beginning of a new era in Pakistan’s trade by sea 1/2 
<a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aliya_hamza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aliya_hamza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PTIofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PTIofficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PTVNewsOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PTVNewsOfficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RadioPakistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RadioPakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/nNsCKP3QBr">pic.twitter.com/nNsCKP3QBr</a>
— Abdul Razak Dawood (@razak_dawood) <a href="https://twitter.com/razak_dawood/status/1266254601906384896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The transhipment of goods to Afghanistan through Gwadar port is important as the port is located close to&nbsp;Chabahar, the Iranian port being developed by India, with Iran's cooperation,&nbsp;to ship its cargo to Afghanistan.

This also offers a much shorter overland link particularly to southern regions of the war-torn nation.&nbsp;Gwadar port is being developed by China as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The advisor said that "for the first time, bagging will be done locally instead of foreign ports. Urea will be bagged and shipped on trucks to Afghanistan at Gwadar, which will generate employment for the locals."

Dawood further said that "instructions have already been passed to allocate all labour jobs to local population" of Balochistan.

Afghanistan will be allowed trade of sugar and wheat through this route. However, all the sealed consignments will have to take the route of the neighboring country.

(With inputs from PTI)

Afghan transit trade through Pakistan's Gwadar port became operational on Friday. This is the first sea trade between the two countries. The first cargo ship berthed at the port on Friday.

Afghan transit trade through Pakistan's Gwadar port became operational on Friday. This is the first sea trade between the two countries. The first cargo ship berthed at the port on Friday. Adviser to Prime Minister for Commerce and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood announced the development on social media. The trade commenced under the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement-2010. "The cargo ship SIBULK TRADITION has berthed at Gwadar, carrying 16,000 tonnes of urea for transit to Afghanistan. This is a first and marks the beginning of a new era in Pakistan's trade by sea," he tweeted. The cargo ship SIBULK TRADITION has berthed at Gwadar, carrying 16000 Tonnes of urea for Transit to Afghanistan. This is a first and marks the beginning of a new era in Pakistan’s trade by sea 1/2 @ImranKhanPTI @aliya_hamza @PTIofficial @PTVNewsOfficial @RadioPakistan pic.twitter.com/nNsCKP3QBr — Abdul Razak Dawood (@razak_dawood) May 29, 2020 × The transhipment of goods to Afghanistan through Gwadar port is important as the port is located close to Chabahar, the Iranian port being developed by India, with Iran's cooperation, to ship its cargo to Afghanistan. This also offers a much shorter overland link particularly to southern regions of the war-torn nation. Gwadar port is being developed by China as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The advisor said that "for the first time, bagging will be done locally instead of foreign ports. Urea will be bagged and shipped on trucks to Afghanistan at Gwadar, which will generate employment for the locals." Dawood further said that "instructions have already been passed to allocate all labour jobs to local population" of Balochistan. Afghanistan will be allowed trade of sugar and wheat through this route. However, all the sealed consignments will have to take the route of the neighboring country. (With inputs from PTI)

Afghanistan transit trade begins through Pakistan's Gwadar port

Days after the end of the three-day ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghanistan government, seven members of the Afghan security forces were killed on Thursday.&nbsp;

The latest attack which Kabul blamed on the Taliban dashed hopes of any sort of agreement between the militant group and the Afghanistan administration.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-wants-truce-extension-as-it-begins-freeing-900-taliban-prisoners-301231">Afghanistan wants truce extension as it begins freeing 900 Taliban prisoners</a>

Taliban fighters attacked early on Thursday a checkpoint in Parwan, north of the capital, said Waheeda Shahkar, spokeswoman to the provincial governor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-announces-three-day-ceasefire-during-the-holidays-of-eid-al-fitr-with-government-300674">Taliban announces three-day ceasefire during the holidays of Eid al-Fitr with government</a>

He added that the Taliban also suffered casualties.&nbsp;

District police chief Hussain Shah said Taliban fighters set fire to the checkpoint, in which five security force personnel were killed. Two more personnel were shot dead.&nbsp;

So far, the Taliban has not commented on the attack.&nbsp;

This comes after the Taliban, in a surprising development, extended a hand of peace by offering a ceasefire to the Afghan government over the Eid al-Fitr festival.

Afghan officials also in its part agreed on prisoner exchange, releasing 1,000 Taliban prisoners this week, and planning to free more in the coming days.

Before the ceasefire too, Kabul had freed nearly 1,000 Taliban captives, while the militant group released some 300 members of government forces.&nbsp;

The Taliban and Afghan administration have so far not reached any sort of truce despite providing a glimmer of hopes here and then after the signing of a historic peace deal that aimed at withdrawing the US and its allies' forces and working to establish peace in the region.&nbsp;

Days after the end of the three-day ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghanistan government, seven members of the Afghan security forces were killed on Thursday.

Days after the end of the three-day ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghanistan government, seven members of the Afghan security forces were killed on Thursday. The latest attack which Kabul blamed on the Taliban dashed hopes of any sort of agreement between the militant group and the Afghanistan administration. Also read | Afghanistan wants truce extension as it begins freeing 900 Taliban prisoners Taliban fighters attacked early on Thursday a checkpoint in Parwan, north of the capital, said Waheeda Shahkar, spokeswoman to the provincial governor. Also read | Taliban announces three-day ceasefire during the holidays of Eid al-Fitr with government He added that the Taliban also suffered casualties. District police chief Hussain Shah said Taliban fighters set fire to the checkpoint, in which five security force personnel were killed. Two more personnel were shot dead. So far, the Taliban has not commented on the attack. This comes after the Taliban, in a surprising development, extended a hand of peace by offering a ceasefire to the Afghan government over the Eid al-Fitr festival. Afghan officials also in its part agreed on prisoner exchange, releasing 1,000 Taliban prisoners this week, and planning to free more in the coming days. Before the ceasefire too, Kabul had freed nearly 1,000 Taliban captives, while the militant group released some 300 members of government forces. The Taliban and Afghan administration have so far not reached any sort of truce despite providing a glimmer of hopes here and then after the signing of a historic peace deal that aimed at withdrawing the US and its allies' forces and working to establish peace in the region.

Afghanistan: Seven security personnel killed, govt blames Taliban

Afghan government begins release of 900 Taliban insurgents, urges truce extension

The Afghan government said it was in the process of freeing 900 Taliban members from prison on Tuesday even as it urged the insurgent group to extend a three-day ceasefire set to end at midnight, according to news agency Reuters.

The Afghan government said it was in the process of freeing 900 Taliban members from prison on Tuesday even as it urged the insurgent group to extend a three-day ceasefire set to end at midnight, according to news agency Reuters. This is the biggest such release yet as part of a prisoner swap under a deal struck by the Taliban and the United States in Qatar in February. "For better management of the prisoner issue, it is important to extend the ceasefire," Javid Faisal, a spokesman for Afghanistan's national security adviser, told a news conference. The Taliban had announced a three-day ceasefire for the Eid al-Fitr holiday that ends the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan, a move that was welcomed by both the Afghan and US governments. Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen, in a statement on Twitter, welcomed the release of 900 prisoners as "good progress" and said the group would in turn free a "remarkable number" of prisoners soon. However, he said nothing about extending the ceasefire, which was to expire at midnight (1930 GMT) Tuesday. Last month, the Taliban rejected a call by the Afghan government for a Ramadan ceasefire. Fighting between Taliban and Afghan forces had intensified before the ceasefire, and the government said it would resume an offensive against the militant group in the wake of its deadly attacks nationwide earlier this month. (With inputs from Reuters)

Afghanistan wants truce extension as it begins freeing 900 Taliban prisoners

Afghanistan's Taliban have decided to announce a three-day ceasefire during the holidays of Eid al-Fitr. The ceasefire will begin on Sunday and has come as a positive move following a bloody battle against Afghan forces after the agreement was signed with the United States.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/afghans-throng-markets-ahead-of-muslim-holiday-despite-virus-fears-300665">Afghans throng markets ahead of Muslim holiday despite virus fears</a>

The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, will be observed on Sunday in Afghanistan, subject to the sighting of the moon.

President Ashraf Ghani has welcomed this move by Taliban and has ordered Afghan forces to comply, whereas, US envoy to Afghanistan has termed this deal as "momentous opportunity."

According to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, he made a statement on social media which read: "Taliban's leadership instructs all the mujahideen of the Islamic Emirate to take special measures for the security of the countrymen, and conduct no offensive operation against the enemy anywhere."

As per the statement, the Taliban has asked its insurgents to not enter government areas and told Afghan forces to not enter the areas controlled by them during the three days of ceasefire.&nbsp;

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I welcome the ceasefire announcement by the Taliban. The Afghan government extends the offer of peace. As Commander in Chief I have instructed ANDSF to comply with the three-days truce and to defend only if attacked. Further details will be given in my speech tomorrow morning.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1264272518166298627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Afghan President Ghani was quick to respond and took to Twitter to welcome the move where he said: "I welcome the ceasefire announcement by the Taliban. The Afghan government extends the offer of peace. As Commander in Chief, I have instructed ANDSF to comply with the three-days truce and to defend only if attacked. Further details will be given in my speech tomorrow morning."

Afghanistan's Taliban have decided to announce a three-day ceasefire during the holidays of Eid al-Fitr. The ceasefire will begin on Sunday and has come as a positive move following a bloody battle against Afghan forces after the agreement was signed with the United States.

Afghanistan's Taliban have decided to announce a three-day ceasefire during the holidays of Eid al-Fitr. The ceasefire will begin on Sunday and has come as a positive move following a bloody battle against Afghan forces after the agreement was signed with the United States. Also read: Afghans throng markets ahead of Muslim holiday despite virus fears The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, will be observed on Sunday in Afghanistan, subject to the sighting of the moon. President Ashraf Ghani has welcomed this move by Taliban and has ordered Afghan forces to comply, whereas, US envoy to Afghanistan has termed this deal as "momentous opportunity." According to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, he made a statement on social media which read: "Taliban's leadership instructs all the mujahideen of the Islamic Emirate to take special measures for the security of the countrymen, and conduct no offensive operation against the enemy anywhere." As per the statement, the Taliban has asked its insurgents to not enter government areas and told Afghan forces to not enter the areas controlled by them during the three days of ceasefire. I welcome the ceasefire announcement by the Taliban. The Afghan government extends the offer of peace. As Commander in Chief I have instructed ANDSF to comply with the three-days truce and to defend only if attacked. Further details will be given in my speech tomorrow morning. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) May 23, 2020 × Afghan President Ghani was quick to respond and took to Twitter to welcome the move where he said: "I welcome the ceasefire announcement by the Taliban. The Afghan government extends the offer of peace. As Commander in Chief, I have instructed ANDSF to comply with the three-days truce and to defend only if attacked. Further details will be given in my speech tomorrow morning."

Taliban announces three-day ceasefire during the holidays of Eid al-Fitr with government

Streets were emptied, parks were vacant and prayer grounds silent as the new coronavirus outbreak turned this year's Eid al-Fitr into a solemn and muted celebration in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: Eid festivities banned to contain COVID-19 outbreak

Shocking death tolls have emerged after the Ashraf Ghani government in Afghanistan ramped up attacks on the Taliban. Watch report.

Drastic increase in attacks on civilians in Afghanistan

What has triggered the new spate of violence in Afghanistan during this pandemic? Who stands to gain from the bloodshed?

Gravitas: No end to violence in Afghanistan

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

The scale of violence has only escalated in Afghanistan during this pandemic. The Afghan govt has ordered all-out strikes against the Taliban, but the western press thinks an offensive will derail the peace process. Should terror apologists share blame for acts of terror? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: Should terror apologists share the blame?

Afghanistan has been gripped by a wave of violence. Multiple bomb blast and shooting incidents are being reported from across the country. Watch report.

Afghanistan: Taliban mounts attack to capture Kunduz

8 people killed in Afghanistan Mosque shooting: Taliban behind the attack

Four civilians were killed and eight others were injured in the Zabul province. The victims were travelling by bus when a roadside bomb exploded. Two children were among the dead.

Four civilians were killed and eight others were injured in the Zabul province. The victims were travelling by bus when a roadside bomb exploded. Two children were among the dead. This blast was just one of the many bloody attacks that hit Afghanistan this month. Also read: World Health Organisation will continue to lead global fight against pandemic: Tedros On May 18, seven people were killed and 40 others were injured in the Ghazni province after a car bomb blew up near a military base. The target was the National Directorate of the security unit. Most of the victims were intelligence personnel. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Also read: Rise in civilian deaths by Taliban and Afghan forces, says UN On May 17, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and opposition leader Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing agreement. So, on paper, the battle for political power was over. The road ahead for the intra-Afghan talks and a peace deal was clear. The Taliban was clearly not pleased. On May 14, it killed at least five people in the eastern city of Gardez. It blew up a truck packed with explosives near a military court. At least a dozen civilians were injured. On May 12, terrorists stormed a maternity hospital in Kabul killing 24 people including two new born babies shocking the world. On the same day, a suicide bomber targeted a funeral in the Nangarhar province where 32 people were killed and 133 injured. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for this attack. The question now is - why now? Why this sudden spate of attacks in the middle of a pandemic? Civilian casualties are on the rise in Afghanistan and it is not just the Taliban that's responsible for it. In April, the Taliban killed 208 civilians. An increase of 25 per cent from last year. The Afghan national security forces are responsible for 172 civilian deaths in the same period. An increase of 38 per cent from last year. These numbers are from the United Nations assistance mission in Afghanistan. More than 72 people have already died this month. There are way too many players in Afghanistan and the dead are collateral damage as different sides fight to stay relevant in a war-ravaged nation.

Afghanistan witnesses spike in bloody attacks, who's to be blamed?

Watch today in WION Dispatch: 2 separate explosions reported today in Afghanistan, leaves 8 dead & 8 injured. Watch this video to get more details.

WION Dispatch: 2 separate explosions reported today in Afghanistan, leaves 8 dead & 8 injured

The Afghan government has come in full support of New Delhi after Taliban's political chief Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai said that India has been supporting traitors in the landlocked South Asian country.

Spokesperson of Afghan foreign ministry Gran Hewad said, "India is one of the biggest donor countries and has helped Afghanistan in development and reconstruction areas, we appreciate their cooperation."

The Afghan government would like to India to play an important role, said Gran and added, "We expect India and other neighbouring countries play a significant role in the Afghan peace process".

The Afghan govt's support for India comes even as US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has been saying that New Delhi should speak to the Taliban.

Suhail Shaheen spokesperson Taliban Political Office, Doha said the group would like to have positive relations with India and welcomed New Delhi's cooperation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries including India and welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan," Shaheen said in Doha.

India is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built the India Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat and the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul.

The development partnership is premised on five pillars Infrastructure, Capacity Building, Humanitarian Assistance, Economic Development &amp; Connectivity. New Delhi offers 500 Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) slots to Afghanistan annually for capacity building.

The Afghan government has come in full support of New Delhi after Taliban's political chief Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai said that India has been supporting traitors in the landlocked South Asian country.

The Afghan government has come in full support of New Delhi after Taliban's political chief Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai said that India has been supporting traitors in the landlocked South Asian country. Spokesperson of Afghan foreign ministry Gran Hewad said, "India is one of the biggest donor countries and has helped Afghanistan in development and reconstruction areas, we appreciate their cooperation." The Afghan government would like to India to play an important role, said Gran and added, "We expect India and other neighbouring countries play a significant role in the Afghan peace process". The Afghan govt's support for India comes even as US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has been saying that New Delhi should speak to the Taliban. Suhail Shaheen spokesperson Taliban Political Office, Doha said the group would like to have positive relations with India and welcomed New Delhi's cooperation in Afghanistan. "Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries including India and welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan," Shaheen said in Doha. India is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built the India Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat and the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul. The development partnership is premised on five pillars Infrastructure, Capacity Building, Humanitarian Assistance, Economic Development & Connectivity. New Delhi offers 500 Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) slots to Afghanistan annually for capacity building.

Afghan govt comes to India's support after Taliban accused New Delhi of supporting traitors

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