Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-arrives-in-pakistan-on-two-day-visit-230761">Afghan President Ashraf Ghani</a> held a meeting in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed the Afghan peace process.

"One on one meeting held between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad. Matters pertaining to bilateral cooperation in various sectors and regional situation were discussed in the meeting," tweeted the government of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Ghani reached Pakistan for his two-day official visit earlier today. He received a guard of honour on arrival at the PM House upon his arrival.

Earlier in the day, Ghani met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

Pakistan Government has claimed that Ghani "appreciated" Pakistan's efforts for the peace process.

Qureshi emphasised that Pakistan wants to play a role in "achieving peace in Afghanistan with sincerity and an open heart".

"For decades now, the people of Afghanistan have suffered due to the security situation and instability prevalent in their country. That must end and Pakistan wants to play its due role in achieving that objective," FM Qureshi said.

"Pakistan has always emphasised the need for result-oriented talks. We firmly believe that is the only way to establish durable peace in Afghanistan," he added.

This visit becomes doubly important after the first Afghan peace conference titled 'Lahore Process' held on June 22 in Bhurban Murree.

According to ARY News, more than 50 delegates, including heads of all Afghan political parties and the political advisor to Ghani, attended the meet.&nbsp;

Former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, senators and members of Afghan parliament were also in attendance.

Ghani had earlier undertaken a bilateral visit to Pakistan in November 2014 and subsequently, came to attend the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA) Ministerial Conference in Islamabad in December 2015, Gulf News reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held a meeting in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed the Afghan peace process. "One on one meeting held between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held a meeting in Islamabad on Thursday and discussed the Afghan peace process. "One on one meeting held between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad. Matters pertaining to bilateral cooperation in various sectors and regional situation were discussed in the meeting," tweeted the government of Pakistan. Ghani reached Pakistan for his two-day official visit earlier today. He received a guard of honour on arrival at the PM House upon his arrival. Earlier in the day, Ghani met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Pakistan Government has claimed that Ghani "appreciated" Pakistan's efforts for the peace process. Qureshi emphasised that Pakistan wants to play a role in "achieving peace in Afghanistan with sincerity and an open heart". "For decades now, the people of Afghanistan have suffered due to the security situation and instability prevalent in their country. That must end and Pakistan wants to play its due role in achieving that objective," FM Qureshi said. "Pakistan has always emphasised the need for result-oriented talks. We firmly believe that is the only way to establish durable peace in Afghanistan," he added. This visit becomes doubly important after the first Afghan peace conference titled 'Lahore Process' held on June 22 in Bhurban Murree. According to ARY News, more than 50 delegates, including heads of all Afghan political parties and the political advisor to Ghani, attended the meet. Former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, senators and members of Afghan parliament were also in attendance. Ghani had earlier undertaken a bilateral visit to Pakistan in November 2014 and subsequently, came to attend the Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process (HoA) Ministerial Conference in Islamabad in December 2015, Gulf News reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani hold meeting, discuss peace process

Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is still endemic, has registered its 10th case this year, with most coming in southern regions where Taliban militants have wide control, a senior health official said on Wednesday.

A 21-month-old girl in the south central province of Uruzgan had been left partly paralyzed by the disease after her parents refused permission for her to receive vaccination.

She was the 10th case registered so far this year, compared with 21 for the whole of 2018.

"Our health teams visited the family several times, but unfortunately the family denied (permission) for the child to take the vaccine," said Khan Aqa Miakhel, health director of Uruzgan province.

Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria are the last three countries in the world where polio is endemic with efforts to eradicate the disease in Afghanistan complicated by the violence across much of the country and by the refusal of some communities to accept vaccination programmes.

Hedayatullah Stanekzai, the health ministry`s point person on polio, said that out of some 9 million children eligible for vaccination, around 860,000 had not been administered polio drops in 2018, mainly due to security threats.

"We have full preparation and facilities to run a vaccine campaign in the whole country but due to security threats, we can`t send our campaigners to the Taliban-controlled and other insurgent areas," he said.

A Taliban ban on the Red Cross (ICRC) and World Health Organization operating in areas under their control had made the work of prevention more difficult and there was a risk that the disease could break out in other areas, he said.

Many health workers administering the vaccines were women, able to gain greater access to families in very conservative areas of the country and their safety was a key concern.

"We are deeply concerned about the Taliban`s ban on WHO and ICRC`s activities," he said.&nbsp;

"If the ban is not lifted soon the polio virus will spread out to the areas which were cleaned in past 18 years," he said.

Stanekzai said officials were talking to communities in Helmand, Kandahar, Uruzgan and Zabul provinces.

"We are in contact with tribal elders and people to find a solution for the problem, but we hope the anti-polio campaigns are not taken hostage by the warring sides for political purposes."

Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is still endemic, has registered its 10th case this year, with most coming in southern regions where Taliban militants have wide control, a senior health official said on Wednesday.

Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is still endemic, has registered its 10th case this year, with most coming in southern regions where Taliban militants have wide control, a senior health official said on Wednesday. A 21-month-old girl in the south central province of Uruzgan had been left partly paralyzed by the disease after her parents refused permission for her to receive vaccination. She was the 10th case registered so far this year, compared with 21 for the whole of 2018. "Our health teams visited the family several times, but unfortunately the family denied (permission) for the child to take the vaccine," said Khan Aqa Miakhel, health director of Uruzgan province. Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria are the last three countries in the world where polio is endemic with efforts to eradicate the disease in Afghanistan complicated by the violence across much of the country and by the refusal of some communities to accept vaccination programmes. Hedayatullah Stanekzai, the health ministry`s point person on polio, said that out of some 9 million children eligible for vaccination, around 860,000 had not been administered polio drops in 2018, mainly due to security threats. "We have full preparation and facilities to run a vaccine campaign in the whole country but due to security threats, we can`t send our campaigners to the Taliban-controlled and other insurgent areas," he said. A Taliban ban on the Red Cross (ICRC) and World Health Organization operating in areas under their control had made the work of prevention more difficult and there was a risk that the disease could break out in other areas, he said. Many health workers administering the vaccines were women, able to gain greater access to families in very conservative areas of the country and their safety was a key concern. "We are deeply concerned about the Taliban`s ban on WHO and ICRC`s activities," he said. "If the ban is not lifted soon the polio virus will spread out to the areas which were cleaned in past 18 years," he said. Stanekzai said officials were talking to communities in Helmand, Kandahar, Uruzgan and Zabul provinces. "We are in contact with tribal elders and people to find a solution for the problem, but we hope the anti-polio campaigns are not taken hostage by the warring sides for political purposes."

Afghanistan records 10th polio case in 2019 as security worsens: Officials

Afghanistan's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-to-visit-pakistan-will-discuss-talks-with-imran-khan-224176">Ashraf Ghani will visit Pakistan </a>on Thursday to meet Prime Minister Imran Khan, less than a week after its neighbour hosted Afghan opposition leaders to discuss ways to end an 18-year-long war.

Ghani's third visit since 2014 comes as efforts have intensified to reach a political settlement with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-statestaliban-aim-to-firm-up-date-for-foreign-force-exit-from-afghanistan-230057">Taliban</a> and end decades of war in Afghanistan, which has long accused Pakistan of supporting the Islamist insurgent movement.

"It is important to see how much regional countries, such as Pakistan, is ready and what kind of help it can provide for peace in Afghanistan," said Haroon Chakhansuri, a spokesman for Ghani in Kabul, the capital.

Pakistan's foreign ministry said the visit would focus on boosting cooperation in areas from security and peace and reconciliation to trade and the economy, adding that officials and a business delegation would accompany Ghani.

Taliban and US officials have held several rounds of talks and say they are close to agreeing a timeline for the withdrawal of foreign troops and guarantees that Afghanistan would not be used as a base for militant attacks on US targets.

But Ghani's government has been shut out of negotiations by the Taliban's refusal to deal with what they consider an illegitimate "puppet" regime.

Ghani this year accused Pakistan of meddling in internal politics, saying the keys to the war are in the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where its government and military are based, and Quetta, location of a key group of Taliban leaders.

Pakistani officials deny supporting the Taliban and say Islamabad strongly favours a political settlement to maintain stability in Afghanistan, but Afghan officials remain cautious.

Pakistan's role in the peace talks is delicate, as it seeks to avoid demonstrating the kind of broad influence over the Taliban long attributed to it by Washington.

US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the push to broker a peace deal with the Afghan Taliban, has held several rounds of talks with Pakistani officials to smooth the way.

Last week, dozens of Afghan politicians and opposition leaders gathered in Pakistan to discuss ways to achieve peace.

Trade analysts said Afghanistan was a key export market and important hub with central Asia for Pakistan, which faces bleak economic headwinds, including a looming balance of payments crisis likely to be worsened by regional turmoil.

"At this stage Pakistan cannot afford to see Afghanistan slide into chaos when it has been running short of foreign exchange reserves," said Mohammad Jamaluddin of the Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce.

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani will visit Pakistan on Thursday to meet Prime Minister Imran Khan, less than a week after its neighbour hosted Afghan opposition leaders to discuss ways to end an 18-year-long war.

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani will visit Pakistan on Thursday to meet Prime Minister Imran Khan, less than a week after its neighbour hosted Afghan opposition leaders to discuss ways to end an 18-year-long war. Ghani's third visit since 2014 comes as efforts have intensified to reach a political settlement with the Taliban and end decades of war in Afghanistan, which has long accused Pakistan of supporting the Islamist insurgent movement. "It is important to see how much regional countries, such as Pakistan, is ready and what kind of help it can provide for peace in Afghanistan," said Haroon Chakhansuri, a spokesman for Ghani in Kabul, the capital. Pakistan's foreign ministry said the visit would focus on boosting cooperation in areas from security and peace and reconciliation to trade and the economy, adding that officials and a business delegation would accompany Ghani. Taliban and US officials have held several rounds of talks and say they are close to agreeing a timeline for the withdrawal of foreign troops and guarantees that Afghanistan would not be used as a base for militant attacks on US targets. But Ghani's government has been shut out of negotiations by the Taliban's refusal to deal with what they consider an illegitimate "puppet" regime. Ghani this year accused Pakistan of meddling in internal politics, saying the keys to the war are in the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where its government and military are based, and Quetta, location of a key group of Taliban leaders. Pakistani officials deny supporting the Taliban and say Islamabad strongly favours a political settlement to maintain stability in Afghanistan, but Afghan officials remain cautious. Pakistan's role in the peace talks is delicate, as it seeks to avoid demonstrating the kind of broad influence over the Taliban long attributed to it by Washington. US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the push to broker a peace deal with the Afghan Taliban, has held several rounds of talks with Pakistani officials to smooth the way. Last week, dozens of Afghan politicians and opposition leaders gathered in Pakistan to discuss ways to achieve peace. Trade analysts said Afghanistan was a key export market and important hub with central Asia for Pakistan, which faces bleak economic headwinds, including a looming balance of payments crisis likely to be worsened by regional turmoil. "At this stage Pakistan cannot afford to see Afghanistan slide into chaos when it has been running short of foreign exchange reserves," said Mohammad Jamaluddin of the Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani to visit Pakistan in bid to step up peace effort

Over 20 regional and international terrorist groups, including Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), are currently fighting against government forces in Afghanistan, mainly in the border areas, according to a recent UN report.

The tenth report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, submitted to the 1988 Sanctions Committee of the United Nations, shows concern over the Taliban and other associated individuals constituting a threat to the peace, stability and security of Afghanistan.

"Al-Qaida is eager to expand its presence in Barmal District in Paktika Province. It has been intensifying its concentration in the Afghan-Pakistan border area in close cooperation with Lashkar-e Taiba and the Haqqani Network. Al-Qaida members act as instructors and religious teachers for Taliban personnel and their family members," said the report.

It quoted Afghan officials as saying that some 500 Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are active in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces of the country.

"Kunar Province remains a focal area for foreign terrorist fighters. Of the more prominent groups operating there, Lashkar-e-Taiba reportedly continues to act as a key facilitator in recruitment and financial support activities," the report said.

"The group reportedly tried to manage relations between the Taliban and ISIL and establish some kind of truce. But more recently it has distanced itself from ISIL and has played a more neutral role," it added.

The UN report also indicated that Al-Qaida continues to see Afghanistan as a safe haven for its leadership, based on its long-standing strong relationship with the Taliban.

"Aiman Muhammed Rabi al-Zawahiri, Hamza Usama Muhammad bin Laden and the Taliban leadership have repeatedly emphasised the importance of the alliance between Al-Qaida and the Taliban. Al-Qaida has grown stronger operating under the Taliban umbrella across Afghanistan and is more active than in recent years," the report stated.

It quoted Afghan officials as saying that the number of Al-Qaida affiliates currently assessed to be operating in Afghanistan stands at approximately 240, with the most significant numbers located in Badakhshan, Kunar and Zabul provinces.

Over 20 regional and international terrorist groups, including Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), are currently fighting against government forces in Afghanistan, mainly in the border areas, according to a recent UN report.

Over 20 regional and international terrorist groups, including Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), are currently fighting against government forces in Afghanistan, mainly in the border areas, according to a recent UN report. The tenth report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, submitted to the 1988 Sanctions Committee of the United Nations, shows concern over the Taliban and other associated individuals constituting a threat to the peace, stability and security of Afghanistan. "Al-Qaida is eager to expand its presence in Barmal District in Paktika Province. It has been intensifying its concentration in the Afghan-Pakistan border area in close cooperation with Lashkar-e Taiba and the Haqqani Network. Al-Qaida members act as instructors and religious teachers for Taliban personnel and their family members," said the report. It quoted Afghan officials as saying that some 500 Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are active in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces of the country. "Kunar Province remains a focal area for foreign terrorist fighters. Of the more prominent groups operating there, Lashkar-e-Taiba reportedly continues to act as a key facilitator in recruitment and financial support activities," the report said. "The group reportedly tried to manage relations between the Taliban and ISIL and establish some kind of truce. But more recently it has distanced itself from ISIL and has played a more neutral role," it added. The UN report also indicated that Al-Qaida continues to see Afghanistan as a safe haven for its leadership, based on its long-standing strong relationship with the Taliban. "Aiman Muhammed Rabi al-Zawahiri, Hamza Usama Muhammad bin Laden and the Taliban leadership have repeatedly emphasised the importance of the alliance between Al-Qaida and the Taliban. Al-Qaida has grown stronger operating under the Taliban umbrella across Afghanistan and is more active than in recent years," the report stated. It quoted Afghan officials as saying that the number of Al-Qaida affiliates currently assessed to be operating in Afghanistan stands at approximately 240, with the most significant numbers located in Badakhshan, Kunar and Zabul provinces.

Over 20 terrorist groups, including Pak-based LeT, active in Afghanistan: UN report

Afghanistan`s former Prime Minister Gulbuddin Hekmatyar on Sunday lauded Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process, during a visit to the country for a conference.

"Pakistan is a very important country and Islamabad could play a key role in bringing peace in Afghanistan and now they are doing it," the former Prime Minister told Anadolu Agency in Bhurban.&nbsp;

He also appreciated Pakistan`s role in "bringing Taliban to the negotiating table," the Turkish state-run news agency reported."I praised Pakistan`s sincere efforts and I am sure they will continue its help to bring peace in our country," Hekmatyar said.

The 71-year-old leader was received by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi upon his arrival to the country on Saturday.&nbsp;

57 other Afghan leaders accompanied Hekmatyar during his visit for a peace conference."We welcome every country and individual who is taking any step for peace in Afghanistan. War always ends with peace and now the war in our country will also end with peace," he added.&nbsp;

He also demanded the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan, outlining that the Afghan people need to "decide their future."

Afghanistan`s former Prime Minister Gulbuddin Hekmatyar on Sunday lauded Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process, during a visit to the country for a conference.

Afghanistan`s former Prime Minister Gulbuddin Hekmatyar on Sunday lauded Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process, during a visit to the country for a conference. "Pakistan is a very important country and Islamabad could play a key role in bringing peace in Afghanistan and now they are doing it," the former Prime Minister told Anadolu Agency in Bhurban. He also appreciated Pakistan`s role in "bringing Taliban to the negotiating table," the Turkish state-run news agency reported."I praised Pakistan`s sincere efforts and I am sure they will continue its help to bring peace in our country," Hekmatyar said. The 71-year-old leader was received by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi upon his arrival to the country on Saturday. 57 other Afghan leaders accompanied Hekmatyar during his visit for a peace conference."We welcome every country and individual who is taking any step for peace in Afghanistan. War always ends with peace and now the war in our country will also end with peace," he added. He also demanded the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan, outlining that the Afghan people need to "decide their future."

Former Afghan Prime Minister Gulbuddin Hekmatyar praises Pakistan's role in peace process

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-31-bangladesh-vs-afghanistan-229969">Bangladesh boosted their bid to reach the World Cup semi-finals</a> as Shakib Al Hasan's superb all-round display inspired a 62-run win over Afghanistan on Monday.

Shakib's 51 laid the foundations for Bangladesh to score 262-7 and made him the leading run-scorer in this year's World Cup.

The 32-year-old then ripped through the Afghan batting line-up with his career-best ODI figures of 5-29 from 10 overs.

Shakib is only the second player in World Cup history to take five wickets and hit a 50 in the same match after India's Yuvraj Singh against Ireland in 2011.

"I had to work really hard with the bat. I think the five wickets gave me greater pleasure, it was important," Shakib said.&nbsp;

"I did work hard before the start of the tournament. It's the best prepared I've been and it's paying off."

Bangladesh, winners against South Africa and the West Indies earlier in the tournament, are up to fifth place in the 10-team group stage.

Watch Sakib's reaction after winning the match:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The man of the moment!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvAFG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RiseOfTheTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RiseOfTheTigers</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/NozCozxhZE">pic.twitter.com/NozCozxhZE</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1143210538668822530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

They sit one point behind fourth-placed England, who face Australia on Tuesday, in the race to seal a semi-final berth via a top-four finish.

Mashrafe Mortaza's side play India and Pakistan in their final two group matches.

"Shakib has been fantastic throughout the tournament. We'll try our level best against Pakistan and India. It's still wide open," Mashrafe said.

Afghanistan became the first team to be eliminated after an agonising 11-run loss against India on Saturday, when Mohammed Shami's final-over hat-trick denied them a famous upset.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shakib-al-hasan-becomes-first-bangladeshi-cricketer-to-cross-1000-run-mark-in-world-cup-230034">Shakib Al Hasan becomes first Bangladeshi cricketer to cross 1,000-run mark in World Cup</a>

Gulbadin Naib's team have lost all seven of their matches, leaving them with two games to avoid finishing the tournament without a single point.

"Obviously we played two tough games and today we missed something. Our fielding gave away 30 to 40 extra runs," Naib said.

Rahmat Shah and Gulbadin put on 49 for the first wicket, giving Afghanistan hope of a surprise win.

But Shakib's introduction brought the breakthrough as the spinner weaved his magic.&nbsp;

Match in numbers:
<img alt="Match 31" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16d6ca04-9f42-48b7-944f-6321d3feff24" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2031.jpg" />
Rahmat carelessly flicked a flatter delivery to Tamim Iqbal at mid-on and departed for 24.

Hashmatullah Shahidi perished when he tried to accelerate, stumped by Mushfiqur Rahim off Mosaddek Hossain for 11.

Bangladesh had victory in their sights after Shakib took two wickets in the space of four balls.

Aggressive hitting

Gulbadin was removed for 47 after driving low to Liton Das at short extra cover before Mohammad Nabi was bowled through the gate for a duck.

Shakib became the first Bangladesh player to take five wickets in the World Cup when he had Najibullah Zadran stumped.

Earlier, Shakib became the leading run scorer in this year's World Cup so far as his side posted a solid score after being put into bat.

Shakib's 51 took him to 476 runs in the tournament, while Mushfiqur top-scored with 83 from 87 balls.

Liton fell for 16 after being fooled into a miscued drive by spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who finished with 3-39.

That brought Shakib to the crease and he upped the tempo with some aggressive hitting that maintained his fine form.

When Shakib, who has two centuries already in the tournament, pulled Naib to the boundary, it moved him above Australia's David Warner's 447 runs.

Tamim and Shakib put on their fourth successive fifty partnership in one-day internationals.

Shakib went on to become only the second player to hit six consecutive 40-plus scores in a World Cup.

Not long after that milestone, Shakib brought up his half-century in 66 balls -- his fifth score of 50 or more in this tournament -- to huge cheers from the Bangladesh fans who made up the majority of the crowd.

Shakib was unable to turn his solid start into another century, but he would contribute more than enough with the ball to seal the victory.

Bangladesh boosted their bid to reach the World Cup semi-finals as Shakib Al Hasan's superb all-round display inspired a 62-run win over Afghanistan on Monday. Shakib's 51 laid the foundations for Bangladesh to score 262-7 and made him the leading run-scorer in this year's World Cup.

Bangladesh boosted their bid to reach the World Cup semi-finals as Shakib Al Hasan's superb all-round display inspired a 62-run win over Afghanistan on Monday. Shakib's 51 laid the foundations for Bangladesh to score 262-7 and made him the leading run-scorer in this year's World Cup. The 32-year-old then ripped through the Afghan batting line-up with his career-best ODI figures of 5-29 from 10 overs. Shakib is only the second player in World Cup history to take five wickets and hit a 50 in the same match after India's Yuvraj Singh against Ireland in 2011. "I had to work really hard with the bat. I think the five wickets gave me greater pleasure, it was important," Shakib said. "I did work hard before the start of the tournament. It's the best prepared I've been and it's paying off." Bangladesh, winners against South Africa and the West Indies earlier in the tournament, are up to fifth place in the 10-team group stage. Watch Sakib's reaction after winning the match: The man of the moment!#BANvAFG | #RiseOfTheTigers | #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/NozCozxhZE — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 24, 2019 × They sit one point behind fourth-placed England, who face Australia on Tuesday, in the race to seal a semi-final berth via a top-four finish. Mashrafe Mortaza's side play India and Pakistan in their final two group matches. "Shakib has been fantastic throughout the tournament. We'll try our level best against Pakistan and India. It's still wide open," Mashrafe said. Afghanistan became the first team to be eliminated after an agonising 11-run loss against India on Saturday, when Mohammed Shami's final-over hat-trick denied them a famous upset. Also Read: Shakib Al Hasan becomes first Bangladeshi cricketer to cross 1,000-run mark in World Cup Gulbadin Naib's team have lost all seven of their matches, leaving them with two games to avoid finishing the tournament without a single point. "Obviously we played two tough games and today we missed something. Our fielding gave away 30 to 40 extra runs," Naib said. Rahmat Shah and Gulbadin put on 49 for the first wicket, giving Afghanistan hope of a surprise win. But Shakib's introduction brought the breakthrough as the spinner weaved his magic. Match in numbers: Rahmat carelessly flicked a flatter delivery to Tamim Iqbal at mid-on and departed for 24. Hashmatullah Shahidi perished when he tried to accelerate, stumped by Mushfiqur Rahim off Mosaddek Hossain for 11. Bangladesh had victory in their sights after Shakib took two wickets in the space of four balls. Aggressive hitting Gulbadin was removed for 47 after driving low to Liton Das at short extra cover before Mohammad Nabi was bowled through the gate for a duck. Shakib became the first Bangladesh player to take five wickets in the World Cup when he had Najibullah Zadran stumped. Earlier, Shakib became the leading run scorer in this year's World Cup so far as his side posted a solid score after being put into bat. Shakib's 51 took him to 476 runs in the tournament, while Mushfiqur top-scored with 83 from 87 balls. Liton fell for 16 after being fooled into a miscued drive by spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who finished with 3-39. That brought Shakib to the crease and he upped the tempo with some aggressive hitting that maintained his fine form. When Shakib, who has two centuries already in the tournament, pulled Naib to the boundary, it moved him above Australia's David Warner's 447 runs. Tamim and Shakib put on their fourth successive fifty partnership in one-day internationals. Shakib went on to become only the second player to hit six consecutive 40-plus scores in a World Cup. Not long after that milestone, Shakib brought up his half-century in 66 balls -- his fifth score of 50 or more in this tournament -- to huge cheers from the Bangladesh fans who made up the majority of the crowd. Shakib was unable to turn his solid start into another century, but he would contribute more than enough with the ball to seal the victory.

World Cup: Bangladesh keep semi-final hopes alive with 62-run win over Afghanistan

Unbeaten India will look to inch closer to the semi-finals when they take on a battered Afghanistan at Southampton. With seven points from four matches, Virat Kohli's side are comfortably poised to make the next round. Former New Zealand all-rounder and four-time World Cupper Chris Harris gives his insights on whether India should experiment with their playing XI and give the likes of Kedar Jadhav or Dinesh Karthik a run-in in order to keep them match-ready and reduce injury concerns of the regular starting XI.

World Cup: India vs Afghanistan - Preview

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-improves-you-as-a-human-being-says-indian-skipper-virat-kohli-229282">India </a>are not underestimating the threat Rashid Khan poses even after he was mauled by England in his previous outing, all-rounder Vijay Shankar said ahead of Saturday's World Cup match against Afghanistan.

Rashid returned 9-0-110-0, the worst bowling figures in World Cup history, against England after home captain Eoin Morgan clobbered him for seven sixes at Old Trafford.

"Every day is different, and every wicket is different. You cannot take things for granted," all-rounder Shankar told reporters at the Hampshire Bowl.

"Tomorrow might be a completely different scenario where we'll have to target him, or we might have to play off. So it is just about adapting ourselves to different situations as quickly as we can," Shankar said.

Most of the Indian batsmen are comfortable against the turning ball and will hope to dominate the spin-heavy Afghan attack led by leg-spinner Rashid.

Shankar, who shares the Hyderabad dressing room with Rashid in the Indian Premier League, said he had tried to read the wily 20-year-old spinner at nets.

"He's definitely one of the best bowlers right now in limited overs, and he has done well," Shankar said about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-afghanistan-will-try-to-learn-from-mistakes-says-rashid-khan-229274">poster boy of Afghan cricket</a>, who tops the list of T20 bowlers and is ranked third in the ODI list.

"Having played with him for a couple of years, it's very important for me to pick things from him like whenever I bat against him in the nets, I try and pick his variations. He's a good bowler. Anyone can go for runs any day. It is about how we come back strong. So for me, it is about how I play against him tomorrow. That will be the key," Shankar said.

Shankar was picked to bat at number four but Hardik Pandya's better ball-striking ability earned him a promotion against Pakistan.

Shankar denied feeling under pressure to match Pandya's power-hitting.

"The pressure will always be to deliver whatever the situation demands. So it's not about how powerful," he said.

"I've also played down the order. I've also got runs playing at number six or seven. It's not about taking that extra pressure. It's about taking extra responsibility and delivering it at the right time for the team," Shankar said.

Shankar made a memorable World Cup debut against Pakistan, claiming the first of his two wickets with his maiden delivery and scoring 15 not out.

The best is yet to come, said the Tamil Nadu player.

"The last game gave me some confidence, and especially playing against Pakistan, making my debut against them," he said.

"I always look to get better in all three aspects of the game as I know I can keep getting better. I know I can bowl a lot better than what I am bowling even now, so I'm just working on my bowling," added Shankar.

India are not underestimating the threat Rashid Khan poses even after he was mauled by England in his previous outing, all-rounder Vijay Shankar said ahead of Saturday's World Cup match against Afghanistan.

India are not underestimating the threat Rashid Khan poses even after he was mauled by England in his previous outing, all-rounder Vijay Shankar said ahead of Saturday's World Cup match against Afghanistan. Rashid returned 9-0-110-0, the worst bowling figures in World Cup history, against England after home captain Eoin Morgan clobbered him for seven sixes at Old Trafford. "Every day is different, and every wicket is different. You cannot take things for granted," all-rounder Shankar told reporters at the Hampshire Bowl. "Tomorrow might be a completely different scenario where we'll have to target him, or we might have to play off. So it is just about adapting ourselves to different situations as quickly as we can," Shankar said. Most of the Indian batsmen are comfortable against the turning ball and will hope to dominate the spin-heavy Afghan attack led by leg-spinner Rashid. Shankar, who shares the Hyderabad dressing room with Rashid in the Indian Premier League, said he had tried to read the wily 20-year-old spinner at nets. "He's definitely one of the best bowlers right now in limited overs, and he has done well," Shankar said about the poster boy of Afghan cricket, who tops the list of T20 bowlers and is ranked third in the ODI list. "Having played with him for a couple of years, it's very important for me to pick things from him like whenever I bat against him in the nets, I try and pick his variations. He's a good bowler. Anyone can go for runs any day. It is about how we come back strong. So for me, it is about how I play against him tomorrow. That will be the key," Shankar said. Shankar was picked to bat at number four but Hardik Pandya's better ball-striking ability earned him a promotion against Pakistan. Shankar denied feeling under pressure to match Pandya's power-hitting. "The pressure will always be to deliver whatever the situation demands. So it's not about how powerful," he said. "I've also played down the order. I've also got runs playing at number six or seven. It's not about taking that extra pressure. It's about taking extra responsibility and delivering it at the right time for the team," Shankar said. Shankar made a memorable World Cup debut against Pakistan, claiming the first of his two wickets with his maiden delivery and scoring 15 not out. The best is yet to come, said the Tamil Nadu player. "The last game gave me some confidence, and especially playing against Pakistan, making my debut against them," he said. "I always look to get better in all three aspects of the game as I know I can keep getting better. I know I can bowl a lot better than what I am bowling even now, so I'm just working on my bowling," added Shankar.

World Cup: India won't lower guard against mauled Rashid Khan, says Vijay Shankar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-at-the-cusp-of-achieving-peace-general-bajwa-229637">Pakistan</a>'s Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-qureshi-briefs-pompeo-about-addressing-fatf-concerns-foreign-office-228266">Shah Mahmood Qureshi</a> on Saturday called for trust to be rebuilt between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan began a new initiative to bolster a faltering peace process aiming to end Afghanistan's lengthy civil war.

Pakistan on Saturday hosted a conference to bring together more than 50 Afghan leaders, including politicians and tribal elders, but there were no representatives of the Afghan Taliban militants, who have been fighting for years to expel foreign forces and defeat the US-backed government in Kabul.

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been strained in recent years amid long-standing allegations by Kabul and Washington that Pakistan has been sheltering the Taliban militants since US-led forces removed them from power in 2001, something Islamabad denies. Pakistan says its influence over the Taliban has waned over the years.

The United States has been pushing Pakistan to use its influence with the Taliban to open direct negotiations with the Kabul government, which the Taliban regard as an illegitimate foreign-imposed regime.

Qureshi, speaking in the Pakistani town of Bhurban in the Punjab province, said Islamabad wants a negotiated peace settlement between all sides as he said Pakistan continues to suffer security problems due to instability in Afghanistan.

"For far too long, the vicious circle of mistrust, often fed into by our common enemies, has affected our relationship. The blame-game has not helped either of us," Qureshi said, according to his speech notes released by the foreign ministry.

"It is indispensable to move away from this negative paradigm. It is incumbent upon the leadership of the two countries to take practical steps to build mutual trust and confidence."

Among the delegates was former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who earlier this year announced plans to contest the delayed presidential elections. Senators and members of Afghanistan's parliament were also there, according to Pakistani English-language Dawn newspaper.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is due to visit Pakistan next week, where he is expected to meet top Pakistani civilian and military leaders in talks set to focus on the Afghanistan peace process.

China on Thursday said that it had recently played host to a Taliban delegation as part of efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called for trust to be rebuilt between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan began a new initiative to bolster a faltering peace process aiming to end Afghanistan's lengthy civil war.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called for trust to be rebuilt between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan began a new initiative to bolster a faltering peace process aiming to end Afghanistan's lengthy civil war. Pakistan on Saturday hosted a conference to bring together more than 50 Afghan leaders, including politicians and tribal elders, but there were no representatives of the Afghan Taliban militants, who have been fighting for years to expel foreign forces and defeat the US-backed government in Kabul. Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been strained in recent years amid long-standing allegations by Kabul and Washington that Pakistan has been sheltering the Taliban militants since US-led forces removed them from power in 2001, something Islamabad denies. Pakistan says its influence over the Taliban has waned over the years. The United States has been pushing Pakistan to use its influence with the Taliban to open direct negotiations with the Kabul government, which the Taliban regard as an illegitimate foreign-imposed regime. Qureshi, speaking in the Pakistani town of Bhurban in the Punjab province, said Islamabad wants a negotiated peace settlement between all sides as he said Pakistan continues to suffer security problems due to instability in Afghanistan. "For far too long, the vicious circle of mistrust, often fed into by our common enemies, has affected our relationship. The blame-game has not helped either of us," Qureshi said, according to his speech notes released by the foreign ministry. "It is indispensable to move away from this negative paradigm. It is incumbent upon the leadership of the two countries to take practical steps to build mutual trust and confidence." Among the delegates was former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who earlier this year announced plans to contest the delayed presidential elections. Senators and members of Afghanistan's parliament were also there, according to Pakistani English-language Dawn newspaper. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is due to visit Pakistan next week, where he is expected to meet top Pakistani civilian and military leaders in talks set to focus on the Afghanistan peace process. China on Thursday said that it had recently played host to a Taliban delegation as part of efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

Pakistan foreign minister says trust must be rebuilt with Afghanistan

A bomb blast at a Shi`ite Muslim mosque in eastern Baghdad wounded at least seven people on Friday, security sources said, correcting earlier reports of seven killed.

Police sources said on Friday a suicide belt or improvised explosive device had been used in the attack in the Baladiyat neighbourhood, for which there was no immediate claim of responsibility.&nbsp;

The toll was initially put at seven dead and more than 20 wounded. But police and other security sources said on Saturday the attackers had leaked false news of casualties through witnesses that police relied on for their reports.

An investigation had been launched, they said.&nbsp;

It was a rare attack on a Shi`ite place of worship in the Iraqi capital.

Sunni extremists carried out high-profile bombings of Iraqi Shi`ite sites during the worst of the country`s sectarian violence after the US invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003.

Baghdad`s security improved significantly with the defeat of Islamic State in 2017 and bomb attacks of any kind in the city have been rare since then.

A bomb blast at a Shi`ite Muslim mosque in eastern Baghdad wounded at least seven people on Friday, security sources said, correcting earlier reports of seven killed.

A bomb blast at a Shi`ite Muslim mosque in eastern Baghdad wounded at least seven people on Friday, security sources said, correcting earlier reports of seven killed. Police sources said on Friday a suicide belt or improvised explosive device had been used in the attack in the Baladiyat neighbourhood, for which there was no immediate claim of responsibility. The toll was initially put at seven dead and more than 20 wounded. But police and other security sources said on Saturday the attackers had leaked false news of casualties through witnesses that police relied on for their reports. An investigation had been launched, they said. It was a rare attack on a Shi`ite place of worship in the Iraqi capital. Sunni extremists carried out high-profile bombings of Iraqi Shi`ite sites during the worst of the country`s sectarian violence after the US invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003. Baghdad`s security improved significantly with the defeat of Islamic State in 2017 and bomb attacks of any kind in the city have been rare since then.

Friday blast at Shi'ite mosque in Baghdad wounds several: Police sources

Afghanistan displayed a spirited bowling performance as they restricted India to 224 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their ongoing match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup at the Rose Bowl Cricket Ground in Southampton on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-28-india-vs-afghanistan-229477">Click here</a> to get live updates

Earlier, India had won the toss and they opted to bat first.

Openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul failed to provide a steady start at the top as Sharma (1) was bowled through the gate by spinner Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman in the fifth over.

Skipper Virat Kohli joined Rahul and the duo ensured the team does not suffer more damage in the opening ten overs.

Both batsmen mixed caution with aggression to keep the scoreboard moving.

Rahul (30) was dismissed in the 15th over by Mohammad Nabi and this ended the 57-run stand between Rahul and Kohli.

Rahul looked to play a reverse sweep, but he miscued it straight to the short third man.

Kohli, however, kept marching on and he brought up his half-century in the 22nd over, registering his third consecutive fifty-plus score in this World Cup.

Vijay Shankar who came out to bat at number four, once again failed to convert his start into a big score.

Shankar (29) was dismissed by Rahmat Shah.

India faced a major setback as the set Kohli (67) was sent back to the pavilion by experienced campaigner Mohammad Nabi, leaving the Men in Blue in a spot of bother at 135/4 in the 31st over.

MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav retrieved the innings for India as they played cautiously against the spinners.

Soon after, they targeted the right bowlers and pressed on the accelerator.

Rashid Khan had a golden chance to run-out Jadhav in the 45th over, but he made a hash of it, giving India a reprieve.

However, Dhoni (28) was dismissed immediately by Rashid.

The wicket-keeper batsman looked to play a big shot, but he ended up missing the ball completely and he was stumped by Afghanistan wicket-keeper Ikram Alikhil.

Dhoni was stumped just for the second time in his entire career.

Hardik Pandya (7) failed to do anything of substance as he was dismissed in the penultimate over.

India lacked firepower in the final overs as Jadhav (52) was also sent back to the pavilion and as a result, the team was restricted to under 230 runs.

Kohli was the top-scorer for India as he scored 67 runs whereas Nabi and Gulbadin Naib scalped two wickets each for Afghanistan.

Afghanistan displayed a spirited bowling performance as they restricted India to 224 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their ongoing match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup at the Rose Bowl Cricket Ground in Southampton on Saturday.

Afghanistan displayed a spirited bowling performance as they restricted India to 224 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their ongoing match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup at the Rose Bowl Cricket Ground in Southampton on Saturday. Click here to get live updates Earlier, India had won the toss and they opted to bat first. Openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul failed to provide a steady start at the top as Sharma (1) was bowled through the gate by spinner Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman in the fifth over. Skipper Virat Kohli joined Rahul and the duo ensured the team does not suffer more damage in the opening ten overs. Both batsmen mixed caution with aggression to keep the scoreboard moving. Rahul (30) was dismissed in the 15th over by Mohammad Nabi and this ended the 57-run stand between Rahul and Kohli. Rahul looked to play a reverse sweep, but he miscued it straight to the short third man. Kohli, however, kept marching on and he brought up his half-century in the 22nd over, registering his third consecutive fifty-plus score in this World Cup. Vijay Shankar who came out to bat at number four, once again failed to convert his start into a big score. Shankar (29) was dismissed by Rahmat Shah. India faced a major setback as the set Kohli (67) was sent back to the pavilion by experienced campaigner Mohammad Nabi, leaving the Men in Blue in a spot of bother at 135/4 in the 31st over. MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav retrieved the innings for India as they played cautiously against the spinners. Soon after, they targeted the right bowlers and pressed on the accelerator. Rashid Khan had a golden chance to run-out Jadhav in the 45th over, but he made a hash of it, giving India a reprieve. However, Dhoni (28) was dismissed immediately by Rashid. The wicket-keeper batsman looked to play a big shot, but he ended up missing the ball completely and he was stumped by Afghanistan wicket-keeper Ikram Alikhil. Dhoni was stumped just for the second time in his entire career. Hardik Pandya (7) failed to do anything of substance as he was dismissed in the penultimate over. India lacked firepower in the final overs as Jadhav (52) was also sent back to the pavilion and as a result, the team was restricted to under 230 runs. Kohli was the top-scorer for India as he scored 67 runs whereas Nabi and Gulbadin Naib scalped two wickets each for Afghanistan.

World Cup: Afghanistan restrict India to 224/8 in Match 28

Last-minute Iran strike reversal showcases Trump's confusion on war

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-to-start-sending-goods-to-india-via-chabahar-port-in-iran-199270">Afghanistan</a> on Friday held an event here to highlight "Made in Afghanistan" products in a bid to attract Indian investment to their nation.

57 Afghan companies from the agricultural sector took part in the event, which was inaugurated by Muqadessa Yourish, the Deputy Minister of Afghanistan`s Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

&nbsp;Speaking to ANI, Yourish highlighted that Afghanistan sought to attract investment to their nation to boost its economy."There are two sides of the business, there is trade and there is investment, We`re doing great on the trade aspect of the business but we`re struggling to bring in investment to the country.&nbsp;

There is a lot of potentials, we have the energy sector, the mining sector but security has always been an issue when businesses have shown interest to come and invest in Afghanistan," she said.

"Going forward, we would like to focus not only on trade but on the investment component of the business as well. Our Indian partners have certainly shown interest on that front," the leader added.

&nbsp;The event acted as an apt platform for various companies in terms of increasing business ties and was able to attract crowds of customers and businessmen, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, New Delhi, stated.

&nbsp;Speaking on trade through the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/chabahar-port-stepped-up-us-military-posture-in-gulf-threatens-indias-hopes-185245">Chabahar Port</a>, Yourish said, "Every transit route, when you just inaugurate them, they do have their challenges. With Chabhar particularly, one of the biggest issues on our side has been that currently there is no Afghan company that owns a shipping line, So the cost of shipping has been very high for our traders".

She further highlighted that an Indian marine line company was interested in doing a joint investment with Afghan partners to find a solution to this problem being faced by Afghanistan. Naseem Sharifi, the Consul General of Afghanistan`s Consulate General in Mumbai was optimistic about the outcome of the event.

&nbsp;Speaking to ANI, he also added that Chabahar is making the export of a lot of items to India possible. "The overall goal is to increase the volume of export from Afghanistan to India and then again import Indian goods to Afghanistan," he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Friday held an event here to highlight "Made in Afghanistan" products in a bid to attract Indian investment to their nation. 57 Afghan companies from the agricultural sector took part in the event, which was inaugurated by Muqadessa Yourish, the Deputy Minister of Afghanistan`s Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Afghanistan on Friday held an event here to highlight "Made in Afghanistan" products in a bid to attract Indian investment to their nation. 57 Afghan companies from the agricultural sector took part in the event, which was inaugurated by Muqadessa Yourish, the Deputy Minister of Afghanistan`s Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Speaking to ANI, Yourish highlighted that Afghanistan sought to attract investment to their nation to boost its economy."There are two sides of the business, there is trade and there is investment, We`re doing great on the trade aspect of the business but we`re struggling to bring in investment to the country. There is a lot of potentials, we have the energy sector, the mining sector but security has always been an issue when businesses have shown interest to come and invest in Afghanistan," she said. "Going forward, we would like to focus not only on trade but on the investment component of the business as well. Our Indian partners have certainly shown interest on that front," the leader added. The event acted as an apt platform for various companies in terms of increasing business ties and was able to attract crowds of customers and businessmen, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, New Delhi, stated. Speaking on trade through the Chabahar Port, Yourish said, "Every transit route, when you just inaugurate them, they do have their challenges. With Chabhar particularly, one of the biggest issues on our side has been that currently there is no Afghan company that owns a shipping line, So the cost of shipping has been very high for our traders". She further highlighted that an Indian marine line company was interested in doing a joint investment with Afghan partners to find a solution to this problem being faced by Afghanistan. Naseem Sharifi, the Consul General of Afghanistan`s Consulate General in Mumbai was optimistic about the outcome of the event. Speaking to ANI, he also added that Chabahar is making the export of a lot of items to India possible. "The overall goal is to increase the volume of export from Afghanistan to India and then again import Indian goods to Afghanistan," he said.

Afghanistan holds agricultural export in Mumbai to boost trade ties with India

Five Taliban terrorists were killed in an operation by Afghan Special Forces in the country`s northern province of Faryab, the provincial government said on Friday.

The anti-terrorist operation was carried out in the Dara-e-Shakh area of Gurziwan district in the wee hours of Friday.

Two Taliban hideouts were destroyed, reported Xinhua.

There was no immediate comment from the Taliban regarding the operation.

Afghanistan is facing an unstable political and security situation due to the activities of the Taliban and the Islamic State.

The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces have been conducting operations to combat terrorism across the country.&nbsp;

Five Taliban terrorists were killed in an operation by Afghan Special Forces in the country`s northern province of Faryab, the provincial government said on Friday.

Five Taliban terrorists were killed in an operation by Afghan Special Forces in the country`s northern province of Faryab, the provincial government said on Friday. The anti-terrorist operation was carried out in the Dara-e-Shakh area of Gurziwan district in the wee hours of Friday. Two Taliban hideouts were destroyed, reported Xinhua. There was no immediate comment from the Taliban regarding the operation. Afghanistan is facing an unstable political and security situation due to the activities of the Taliban and the Islamic State. The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces have been conducting operations to combat terrorism across the country.

5 Taliban terrorists killed by Afghan forces in Faryab province

Records, injuries and controversies in third week of Cricket World Cup

Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan on Thursday said that his team will learn from their mistakes and try to play as per their potential against India.

"We will not repeat the mistakes against India, as we did in the tournament so far. We have last played against India in the Asia Cup in Dubai. Whatever talent we have, we will try to showcase it on the ground," Rashid told ANI.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-afghanistan-by-150-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-228503&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwim6OznzPriAhVVAXIKHQePBWYQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw32sYZxRMmyh2mdx_Ms70Tn">Afghanistan </a>have not played well in the tournament and did not win any match.

According to Rashid they have not played against a higher ranked team in the last four years and did not have the experience of big matches.

Rashid further added that as a team we need time to get the experience.

"Afghanistan have prepared well for the World Cup. Even though we have not won any game in the World Cup as we have not played with the big teams in the last four years," Rashid said.

We lagged behind in experience against them in the tournament.

As a team we need time and experience, we have the talent in our players to upset big teams.

The more we play with top teams the more we get the experience of the big match," he added.

In the five matches, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-coach-phil-simmons-outburst-exposes-troubles-in-afghanistan-team-228705">Afghanistan </a>played so far they have not managed to win one.

Rashid became the most expensive bowler in the ODI`s as he conceded 110 runs from his nine overs against England on Tuesday.

Afghanistan will play on their potential against India to give them a tough fight.

Rashid also stated that there is nothing wrong in the team between players.

"There is no problem between the players, we are playing as a team with the only motive to win the game. In the tournament all the teams are equal and nobody can take us lightly as we have the potential to defeat any team on our day. We will give a tough fight to India," Rashid said.

Afghanistan will take on India on June 22 at Southampton.

Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan on Thursday said that his team will learn from their mistakes and try to play as per their potential against India. "We will not repeat the mistakes against India, as we did in the tournament so far.

Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan on Thursday said that his team will learn from their mistakes and try to play as per their potential against India. "We will not repeat the mistakes against India, as we did in the tournament so far. We have last played against India in the Asia Cup in Dubai. Whatever talent we have, we will try to showcase it on the ground," Rashid told ANI. Afghanistan have not played well in the tournament and did not win any match. According to Rashid they have not played against a higher ranked team in the last four years and did not have the experience of big matches. Rashid further added that as a team we need time to get the experience. "Afghanistan have prepared well for the World Cup. Even though we have not won any game in the World Cup as we have not played with the big teams in the last four years," Rashid said. We lagged behind in experience against them in the tournament. As a team we need time and experience, we have the talent in our players to upset big teams. The more we play with top teams the more we get the experience of the big match," he added. In the five matches, Afghanistan played so far they have not managed to win one. Rashid became the most expensive bowler in the ODI`s as he conceded 110 runs from his nine overs against England on Tuesday. Afghanistan will play on their potential against India to give them a tough fight. Rashid also stated that there is nothing wrong in the team between players. "There is no problem between the players, we are playing as a team with the only motive to win the game. In the tournament all the teams are equal and nobody can take us lightly as we have the potential to defeat any team on our day. We will give a tough fight to India," Rashid said. Afghanistan will take on India on June 22 at Southampton.

World Cup: Afghanistan will try to learn from mistakes, says Rashid Khan

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungarians-protest-at-state-tv-to-demand-independent-public-media-courts-185137">Hungarian court</a> jailed four human traffickers for life on Thursday for the deaths of 71 migrants whose decomposing bodies were found crammed inside a truck dumped on an Austrian motorway.

The deaths in August 2015 of 59 men, eight women and four children from Syria, Iraq, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-slams-pakistan-over-imran-khans-remarks-summons-pak-diplomat-recalls-its-envoy-205858">Afghanistan</a> shocked Europe as it was struggling to cope with an influx of more than one million refugees and migrants that year.

It was the worst incident of its kind on the overland route across the Balkans and into central Europe taken by hundreds of thousands of people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

"The suffering in that truck is beyond imagination, as is the utmost indifference the perpetrators showed toward the deaths of these 71 people.&nbsp;

Therefore for those who played a core part, there is no doubt that the only punishment commensurate with their crime is the maximum one, which is life in jail without parole," presiding Judge Erik Mezolaki said.

One of the four defendants received a minimum of 30 years in prison - legally a life term in Hungary - but with the possibility of parole afterwards.

The Afghan ringleader of the gang and three Bulgarian accomplices were found guilty of manslaughter for refusing to stop the refrigerated truck to open the doors and let air in, despite the frantic pleas of that inside.

The passengers realized they were in danger of suffocating, so they banged on the doors, screamed and shouted to get the driver's attention, an investigating judge told an earlier court hearing last year.

Mezolaki said Yahoo Samsooryamal, the Afghan, had ordered the driver not to open the airtight doors of the truck as it headed from Hungary via Austria towards Germany, the preferred destination of many of the migrants who entered Europe in 2015.

He was in contact with Bulgarians Metodi Georgiev, Vencislav Todorov, and Ivaylo Stoyanov by phone during the journey - one of whom drove the truck while the other two followed in cars.

The temperature inside rose quickly after the truck was abandoned on an Austrian highway and the air began to run out, Mezolaki said. The driver had stopped on the motorway to check the truck's engine coolant but left the back doors locked.

All the victims - including children and infants - suffocated within two hours after the traffickers departed.

"They stopped first at about 6 a.m., but the victims made so much noise that (Georgiev) instructed (Todorov and Stoyanov) to keep going," Mezolaki said at the trial in Szeged near Hungary's southern border with Serbia.

"They tried to get away with trafficking even at the cost of the victims' lives ... At 7 a.m., the instruction was to see if they were still screaming so hard, and if not, stop and get lost. By that time, 68 of the victims had died."

Mezolaki said the traffickers had several opportunities to relieve the suffering of the victims. They had even purchased a steel cutter - but opted not to use it to open the truck.

Thursday's sentencing was a final ruling that increased an earlier court verdict of 25 years in jail against the four traffickers reached last year. It also included jail terms of several years for 10 more members of the trafficking ring who were not charged with manslaughter.

The truck was dumped near the town of Parndorf just after it crossed into Austria from Hungary and its rear doors were found wrapped in the wire as a secondary fastener to seal them shut.

Though the truck was left on Austrian territory, the trial was held in Hungary as it was the starting point of the deadly journey.

As Europe's migrant crisis peaked in 2015, the defendants stepped up their operation to maximize profits, smuggling up to 100 people a day from Hungary into Austria or Germany, prosecutors said in an earlier hearing.

A Hungarian court jailed four human traffickers for life on Thursday for the deaths of 71 migrants whose decomposing bodies were found crammed inside a truck dumped on an Austrian motorway.

A Hungarian court jailed four human traffickers for life on Thursday for the deaths of 71 migrants whose decomposing bodies were found crammed inside a truck dumped on an Austrian motorway. The deaths in August 2015 of 59 men, eight women and four children from Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan shocked Europe as it was struggling to cope with an influx of more than one million refugees and migrants that year. It was the worst incident of its kind on the overland route across the Balkans and into central Europe taken by hundreds of thousands of people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. "The suffering in that truck is beyond imagination, as is the utmost indifference the perpetrators showed toward the deaths of these 71 people. Therefore for those who played a core part, there is no doubt that the only punishment commensurate with their crime is the maximum one, which is life in jail without parole," presiding Judge Erik Mezolaki said. One of the four defendants received a minimum of 30 years in prison - legally a life term in Hungary - but with the possibility of parole afterwards. The Afghan ringleader of the gang and three Bulgarian accomplices were found guilty of manslaughter for refusing to stop the refrigerated truck to open the doors and let air in, despite the frantic pleas of that inside. The passengers realized they were in danger of suffocating, so they banged on the doors, screamed and shouted to get the driver's attention, an investigating judge told an earlier court hearing last year. Mezolaki said Yahoo Samsooryamal, the Afghan, had ordered the driver not to open the airtight doors of the truck as it headed from Hungary via Austria towards Germany, the preferred destination of many of the migrants who entered Europe in 2015. He was in contact with Bulgarians Metodi Georgiev, Vencislav Todorov, and Ivaylo Stoyanov by phone during the journey - one of whom drove the truck while the other two followed in cars. The temperature inside rose quickly after the truck was abandoned on an Austrian highway and the air began to run out, Mezolaki said. The driver had stopped on the motorway to check the truck's engine coolant but left the back doors locked. All the victims - including children and infants - suffocated within two hours after the traffickers departed. "They stopped first at about 6 a.m., but the victims made so much noise that (Georgiev) instructed (Todorov and Stoyanov) to keep going," Mezolaki said at the trial in Szeged near Hungary's southern border with Serbia. "They tried to get away with trafficking even at the cost of the victims' lives ... At 7 a.m., the instruction was to see if they were still screaming so hard, and if not, stop and get lost. By that time, 68 of the victims had died." Mezolaki said the traffickers had several opportunities to relieve the suffering of the victims. They had even purchased a steel cutter - but opted not to use it to open the truck. Thursday's sentencing was a final ruling that increased an earlier court verdict of 25 years in jail against the four traffickers reached last year. It also included jail terms of several years for 10 more members of the trafficking ring who were not charged with manslaughter. The truck was dumped near the town of Parndorf just after it crossed into Austria from Hungary and its rear doors were found wrapped in the wire as a secondary fastener to seal them shut. Though the truck was left on Austrian territory, the trial was held in Hungary as it was the starting point of the deadly journey. As Europe's migrant crisis peaked in 2015, the defendants stepped up their operation to maximize profits, smuggling up to 100 people a day from Hungary into Austria or Germany, prosecutors said in an earlier hearing.

Four jailed for life over death of 71 migrants in Hungarian truck

India has said terror groups can not negotiate from a place of advantage, a remark directed towards groups such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/india-cant-avoid-talking-to-taliban-in-current-scenario-206413">Taliban </a>based in Pakistani territory.&nbsp;

Speaking on the situation in Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council, India's Permanent Representative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-supports-afghan-led-inclusive-peace-process-syed-akbaruddin-228915">Syed Akbaruddin</a> said, " We cannot ignore that groups enjoying the support and safe havens carry out violent and terrorist activities from across borders", adding, "They cannot be allowed to negotiate from a place of advantage. "

He said, terrorist activities of the "Taliban, Haqqani Network, Da'esh, as well as Al Qaeda" and its proscribed affiliates such as "Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e Mohammed" need to end.

Explaining further he said, sanctuaries and safe havens provided to terror networks have to be addressed for "genuine and sustainable peace."

Giving an example of Hizb-e-Islami, he said, "peace settlement within the rubric of the current constitution is possible both politically and socially."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Afghan people have for long been victims of transnational terrorism - <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaUNNewYork</a> 
 
For full statement c <a href="https://t.co/GjfDgfc6uZ">https://t.co/GjfDgfc6uZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cwi8OmaxtE">pic.twitter.com/Cwi8OmaxtE</a>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1141529448191352833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Reiterating India's policy on Afghan peace process which should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled", Akbaruddin said, "All of us need to be mindful of the gains that the Afghan people have made in the last 18 years."

India has been engaging with Russia, US, China, Iran and central Asia on the Afghan peace process.

Backing the communique of the Loya Jirga, convened by President Ghani on April 29, 2019, New Delhi said talks with Taliban should be "without pre-conditions" and a "Taliban office to be opened in Afghanistan" while "formation of an inclusive negotiating team".

Last week PM Modi met Afghan president Ashraf Ghani on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek during which New Delhi assured that it will fulfil all the expectations of Afghanistan and the Afghan government.

New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest backer in the region. 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;

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.

India has said terror groups can not negotiate from a place of advantage, a remark directed towards groups such as Taliban based in Pakistani territory. Speaking on the situation in Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council, India's Permanent Representative Syed Akbaruddin said, " We cannot ignore that groups enjoying the support and safe havens carry out violent and terrorist activities from across borders", adding, "They cannot be allowed to negotiate from a place of advantage.

India has said terror groups can not negotiate from a place of advantage, a remark directed towards groups such as Taliban based in Pakistani territory. Speaking on the situation in Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council, India's Permanent Representative Syed Akbaruddin said, " We cannot ignore that groups enjoying the support and safe havens carry out violent and terrorist activities from across borders", adding, "They cannot be allowed to negotiate from a place of advantage. " He said, terrorist activities of the "Taliban, Haqqani Network, Da'esh, as well as Al Qaeda" and its proscribed affiliates such as "Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e Mohammed" need to end. Explaining further he said, sanctuaries and safe havens provided to terror networks have to be addressed for "genuine and sustainable peace." Giving an example of Hizb-e-Islami, he said, "peace settlement within the rubric of the current constitution is possible both politically and socially." The Afghan people have for long been victims of transnational terrorism - @IndiaUNNewYork For full statement c https://t.co/GjfDgfc6uZ pic.twitter.com/Cwi8OmaxtE — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) June 20, 2019 × Reiterating India's policy on Afghan peace process which should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled", Akbaruddin said, "All of us need to be mindful of the gains that the Afghan people have made in the last 18 years." India has been engaging with Russia, US, China, Iran and central Asia on the Afghan peace process. Backing the communique of the Loya Jirga, convened by President Ghani on April 29, 2019, New Delhi said talks with Taliban should be "without pre-conditions" and a "Taliban office to be opened in Afghanistan" while "formation of an inclusive negotiating team". Last week PM Modi met Afghan president Ashraf Ghani on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek during which New Delhi assured that it will fulfil all the expectations of Afghanistan and the Afghan government. New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest backer in the region. 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. 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.

Taliban cannot negotiate from place of advantage: India to UN

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib defended spin spearhead Rashid Khan after the 20-year-old bore the brunt of Eoin Morgan's record-breaking assault in their World Cup loss to England on Tuesday.

The spin-heavy Asians pinned their hopes on Rashid, the poster boy of Afghan cricket, who tops the list of T20 bowlers and is ranked third in the ODI list, to contain England's formidable batting order.

But as he embarked on the job, the spunky leg-spinner soon found himself in the firing line of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-afghanistan-records-galore-as-eoin-morgan-leads-the-way-228515">Morgan's six-hitting spree</a> and eventually logged the worst bowling figures in World Cup history -- 110 runs off nine overs without a single wicket.

Naib said he had not seen a knock like Morgan's and what Rashid endured could happen to any player.

"Not really," Naib told a news conference when asked if Rashid had disappointed him at Old Trafford.

"He's one of the best spinners, he's a star player in world cricket. It can happen with any player, not just Rashid. Everyone knows how good he is and how he bowls. I think it was not his day today. But it's cricket, sometimes you do well, sometimes this kind of stuff happens. I'm happy with him. I don't think it's a big deal," Naib said.

Rashid did create an opportunity when he induced Morgan, then on 28, into a slog-sweep but Dawlat Zadran misjudged the skier and spilled it near deep midwicket boundary.

Morgan went on to blast a career-best 148, which included a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/morgans-milestone-in-manchester-england-captain-eoin-morgan-smashes-17-sixes-breaks-odi-record-228429">record-shattering 17 sixes,</a> including seven off Rashid's bowling.

Naib felt it was the turning point in the match.

"We missed a catch of Morgan, maybe we lost the game there," said the Afghan captain who claimed 3-68.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-afghanistan-by-150-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-228503">England </a>were 164-2 after 30 overs before Morgan exploded, with the hosts plundering 142 runs in the last 10 overs.

"Had we taken that catch, they would not have scored this much. They are a strong side, they did not give us any chance in the match," Naib said.

"Credit goes to Morgan. He showed his class. I've never seen this kind of batting," Naib said.

Afghanistan stay rooted to the bottom of the points table after their five defeats in as many matches but their 247-8 was their highest total in World Cup and also the first time they batted out full 50 overs.

"We're improving every day, we try to do well every day. It's a good thing for the team that we played 50 overs today. I think it's a positive sign," added Naib.&nbsp;

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib defended spin spearhead Rashid Khan after the 20-year-old bore the brunt of Eoin Morgan's record-breaking assault in their World Cup loss to England on Tuesday.

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib defended spin spearhead Rashid Khan after the 20-year-old bore the brunt of Eoin Morgan's record-breaking assault in their World Cup loss to England on Tuesday. The spin-heavy Asians pinned their hopes on Rashid, the poster boy of Afghan cricket, who tops the list of T20 bowlers and is ranked third in the ODI list, to contain England's formidable batting order. But as he embarked on the job, the spunky leg-spinner soon found himself in the firing line of Morgan's six-hitting spree and eventually logged the worst bowling figures in World Cup history -- 110 runs off nine overs without a single wicket. Naib said he had not seen a knock like Morgan's and what Rashid endured could happen to any player. "Not really," Naib told a news conference when asked if Rashid had disappointed him at Old Trafford. "He's one of the best spinners, he's a star player in world cricket. It can happen with any player, not just Rashid. Everyone knows how good he is and how he bowls. I think it was not his day today. But it's cricket, sometimes you do well, sometimes this kind of stuff happens. I'm happy with him. I don't think it's a big deal," Naib said. Rashid did create an opportunity when he induced Morgan, then on 28, into a slog-sweep but Dawlat Zadran misjudged the skier and spilled it near deep midwicket boundary. Morgan went on to blast a career-best 148, which included a record-shattering 17 sixes, including seven off Rashid's bowling. Naib felt it was the turning point in the match. "We missed a catch of Morgan, maybe we lost the game there," said the Afghan captain who claimed 3-68. England were 164-2 after 30 overs before Morgan exploded, with the hosts plundering 142 runs in the last 10 overs. "Had we taken that catch, they would not have scored this much. They are a strong side, they did not give us any chance in the match," Naib said. "Credit goes to Morgan. He showed his class. I've never seen this kind of batting," Naib said. Afghanistan stay rooted to the bottom of the points table after their five defeats in as many matches but their 247-8 was their highest total in World Cup and also the first time they batted out full 50 overs. "We're improving every day, we try to do well every day. It's a good thing for the team that we played 50 overs today. I think it's a positive sign," added Naib.

World Cup: Gulbadin Naib defends Rashid Khan, says 'he is a star it was just not his day'

Afghanistan look in disarray on and off the field at the World Cup with coach Phil Simmons' Twitter outburst on Wednesday revealing signs of troubles within the team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-gulbadin-naib-defends-rashid-khan-says-he-is-a-star-it-was-just-not-his-day-228570">Gulbadin Naib</a>'s men suffered their fifth defeat in as many matches after losing to hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-afghanistan-records-galore-as-eoin-morgan-leads-the-way-228515">England </a>on Tuesday when they looked completely defenceless against home captain Eoin Morgan's astonishing six-hitting spree at Old Trafford.

Naib replaced Asghar Afghan as captain ahead of the World Cup in a last-minute leadership change that was criticised by senior players including Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi.

Former chief selector Dawlat Ahmadzai has blamed the coaching staff for the debacle which irked Simmons.

"I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of #AsgharAfghan," Simmons tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsgharAfghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsgharAfghan</a> <a href="https://t.co/TLhIbzqTU4">https://t.co/TLhIbzqTU4</a>
— Phil Simmons (@Coachsim13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Coachsim13/status/1141280755227725824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Me asking to renew my contract with ACB is absolutely untrue #FakeNews," he said in another tweet last week.

On the eve of the England match, some members of the Afghanistan team were involved in an altercation at a restaurant in Manchester, the BBC reported on Tuesday.

The report said the players involved were unhappy at being filmed and confronted a member of the public.

Greater Manchester Police officers attended the incident but no arrests were made.

Naib declined to elaborate on the incident after the loss against England and threatened to walk out of the news conference when pressed further about what happened.

The Afghan team also found themselves in an embarrassing situation earlier in the tournament when stumper-batsman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-shahzad-blames-afghanistan-cricket-board-for-his-withdrawal-from-world-cup-squad-226086&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDkZTwwfXiAhUKiXAKHdtkBoEQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3CTohg_1YCvtI7mP7MeHPA">Mohammad Shehzad threatened to quit</a> cricket after being ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury.

Shehzad played in Afghanistan's first two matches but the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) cut him from the squad, saying his injury would not allow him to play any further part.

He said the medical advice he sought suggested he would have been fit in a few off days after having his knee drained.

ACB Chief Executive Asadullah Khan told the ESPNcricinfo website that the team's priority was picking match-fit players.

Afghanistan look in disarray on and off the field at the World Cup with coach Phil Simmons' Twitter outburst on Wednesday revealing signs of troubles within the team.

Afghanistan look in disarray on and off the field at the World Cup with coach Phil Simmons' Twitter outburst on Wednesday revealing signs of troubles within the team. Gulbadin Naib's men suffered their fifth defeat in as many matches after losing to hosts England on Tuesday when they looked completely defenceless against home captain Eoin Morgan's astonishing six-hitting spree at Old Trafford. Naib replaced Asghar Afghan as captain ahead of the World Cup in a last-minute leadership change that was criticised by senior players including Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi. Former chief selector Dawlat Ahmadzai has blamed the coaching staff for the debacle which irked Simmons. "I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of #AsgharAfghan," Simmons tweeted. I am in the middle of a World Cup and trying to get our team to perform to the level we expect but at the end of the World Cup I will tell the Afghanistan people about the part that Mr Dawlat Ahmadzai had to play in our preparation and his part in the dismissal of #AsgharAfghan https://t.co/TLhIbzqTU4 — Phil Simmons (@Coachsim13) June 19, 2019 × "Me asking to renew my contract with ACB is absolutely untrue #FakeNews," he said in another tweet last week. On the eve of the England match, some members of the Afghanistan team were involved in an altercation at a restaurant in Manchester, the BBC reported on Tuesday. The report said the players involved were unhappy at being filmed and confronted a member of the public. Greater Manchester Police officers attended the incident but no arrests were made. Naib declined to elaborate on the incident after the loss against England and threatened to walk out of the news conference when pressed further about what happened. The Afghan team also found themselves in an embarrassing situation earlier in the tournament when stumper-batsman Mohammad Shehzad threatened to quit cricket after being ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury. Shehzad played in Afghanistan's first two matches but the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) cut him from the squad, saying his injury would not allow him to play any further part. He said the medical advice he sought suggested he would have been fit in a few off days after having his knee drained. ACB Chief Executive Asadullah Khan told the ESPNcricinfo website that the team's priority was picking match-fit players.

World Cup: Coach Phil Simmons' outburst exposes troubles in Afghanistan team

Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi has said he disregarded medical advice and kept on batting after taking a bouncer to the helmet in Tuesday's World Cup defeat by England because he did not want his mother to worry.

The 24-year-old was struck by a delivery from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-afghanistan-records-galore-as-eoin-morgan-leads-the-way-228515">England's </a>Mark Wood that sent him crashing to the turf at Old Trafford but went on to top score for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-gulbadin-naib-defends-rashid-khan-says-he-is-a-star-it-was-just-not-his-day-228570">Afghanistan </a>with 76 in their otherwise disappointing 150-run defeat.

"I got up early because of my mum," Shahidi told reporters after Afghanistan's fifth loss in as many matches at the tournament. "I lost my father last year so I didn't want her to hurt.

"My whole family was watching, even my big brother was here in the ground watching. I didn't want them to be worried for me.

"(The medical staff) just told me, 'let's go'. I told them... my team needed me. I carried on. After the match I went to the ICC doctor and talked to them. They took care of me and said it will be fine, inshallah (God willing)."

Afghanistan's next match is against India in Southampton on Saturday.

Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi has said he disregarded medical advice and kept on batting after taking a bouncer to the helmet in Tuesday's World Cup defeat by England because he did not want his mother to worry.

Afghanistan's Hashmatullah Shahidi has said he disregarded medical advice and kept on batting after taking a bouncer to the helmet in Tuesday's World Cup defeat by England because he did not want his mother to worry. The 24-year-old was struck by a delivery from England's Mark Wood that sent him crashing to the turf at Old Trafford but went on to top score for Afghanistan with 76 in their otherwise disappointing 150-run defeat. "I got up early because of my mum," Shahidi told reporters after Afghanistan's fifth loss in as many matches at the tournament. "I lost my father last year so I didn't want her to hurt. "My whole family was watching, even my big brother was here in the ground watching. I didn't want them to be worried for me. "(The medical staff) just told me, 'let's go'. I told them... my team needed me. I carried on. After the match I went to the ICC doctor and talked to them. They took care of me and said it will be fine, inshallah (God willing)." Afghanistan's next match is against India in Southampton on Saturday.

Afghanistan's Shahidi kept batting after bouncer blow as he did not want to worry his mother

England captain Eoin Morgan set a new world record of 17 sixes in an individual one-day international innings as the World Cup <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-24-england-vs-afghanistan-228274">hosts thrashed Afghanistan by 150 runs </a>on Tuesday.

Victory at Old Trafford saw favourites England go ahead of holders Australia to sit top of the World Cup group table on net run-rate.

Morgan's six-hitting spree in his career-best 148 set the tone for England's team total of 25 sixes, which was also a new ODI innings record.

The Dubliner's innings was the centrepiece of England's 397-6.

That was the highest total of the tournament so far and the largest England had made at any World Cup, surpassing their 386-6 against Bangladesh in Cardiff 10 days ago.

Even though bottom of the table Afghanistan, suffering their fifth defeat in five matches, posted their highest World Cup total of 247-8 they were never up with the required run-rate.

There was a worrying moment when Hashmatullah Shahidi, on 24, was hit on the side of the helmet by a Mark Wood bouncer and fell to the turf.

But after several minutes' on-field treatment, Shahidi resumed his innings in a new helmet.

Shahidi completed a gutsy 68-ball fifty on his way to 76, while his fourth-wicket stand of partnership of 94 with Ashgar Afghan (44) was a record for any Afghanistan wicket at a World Cup.

Match in numbers:
<img alt="Match 24" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75847548-5b26-43d9-913a-c1772cb26a04" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2024.jpg" />
Earlier, Morgan, dropped on 28, dominated a third-wicket stand of 189 with Joe Root (88), whose contribution to their partnership was a mere 43.&nbsp;

Afghanistan star leg-spinner Rashid Khan set an unwanted record with 0-110 in nine overs -- the most expensive return at a World Cup and second costliest in all ODI&nbsp;cricket.

Morgan's tally surpassed the record of 16 sixes in an ODI innings previously shared by India's Rohit Sharma, South Africa's AB de Villiers and West Indies' Chris Gayle.&nbsp;

He broke the record when he launched Gulbadin Naib for a flat straight hit over the Afghanistan captain's head.

Impressive Morgan

But the very next ball saw Morgan hole out off Naib to end a 71-ball innings that also featured four fours.&nbsp;

His innings, which featured 118 runs in boundaries, was all the more impressive as Morgan had been doubtful for this match with a back spasm suffered in England's eight-wicket win over the West Indies, in which he could not bat.&nbsp;

Jonny Bairstow got England off to a solid start, with England accelerating after James Vince fell for 26 when he mishooked paceman Dawlat Zadran to short fine-leg.&nbsp;

In sight of his eighth ODI century, Bairstow's 99-ball innings ended when he chipped a return catch to Naib.&nbsp;

Morgan, after an early mix-up that saw him sent back and get tangled up with opposing skipper Naib, settled in quickly.&nbsp;

He hit Naib for two sixes including a fine drive over long-on.

But the left-hander should have been out when he skied Rashid, only for Zadran at deep midwicket to make such a mess of the catch that the ball bounced out of his hands and over the rope for four.

Not even Zadran's eventual return of 3-85 could undo the damage of that costly error, with Morgan immediately hitting a soaring six off Rashid's next ball in a 36th over that cost 18 runs.&nbsp;

Root was denied a second successive hundred and third of the tournament when he holed out off Naib, whose 3-68 was a creditable return in the circumstances.&nbsp;

But the sixes kept coming, Morgan's 11th bringing up a hundred in 57 balls, with only Ireland's Kevin O'Brien, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and South Africa's AB de Villiers having scored faster centuries at a World Cup.

England set the ODI team record for sixes when Moeen Ali launched the penultimate delivery of the innings, from Zadran, over long-on.

England captain Eoin Morgan set a new world record of 17 sixes in an individual one-day international innings as the World Cup hosts thrashed Afghanistan by 150 runs on Tuesday.

England captain Eoin Morgan set a new world record of 17 sixes in an individual one-day international innings as the World Cup hosts thrashed Afghanistan by 150 runs on Tuesday. Victory at Old Trafford saw favourites England go ahead of holders Australia to sit top of the World Cup group table on net run-rate. Morgan's six-hitting spree in his career-best 148 set the tone for England's team total of 25 sixes, which was also a new ODI innings record. The Dubliner's innings was the centrepiece of England's 397-6. That was the highest total of the tournament so far and the largest England had made at any World Cup, surpassing their 386-6 against Bangladesh in Cardiff 10 days ago. Even though bottom of the table Afghanistan, suffering their fifth defeat in five matches, posted their highest World Cup total of 247-8 they were never up with the required run-rate. There was a worrying moment when Hashmatullah Shahidi, on 24, was hit on the side of the helmet by a Mark Wood bouncer and fell to the turf. But after several minutes' on-field treatment, Shahidi resumed his innings in a new helmet. Shahidi completed a gutsy 68-ball fifty on his way to 76, while his fourth-wicket stand of partnership of 94 with Ashgar Afghan (44) was a record for any Afghanistan wicket at a World Cup. Match in numbers: Earlier, Morgan, dropped on 28, dominated a third-wicket stand of 189 with Joe Root (88), whose contribution to their partnership was a mere 43. Afghanistan star leg-spinner Rashid Khan set an unwanted record with 0-110 in nine overs -- the most expensive return at a World Cup and second costliest in all ODI cricket. Morgan's tally surpassed the record of 16 sixes in an ODI innings previously shared by India's Rohit Sharma, South Africa's AB de Villiers and West Indies' Chris Gayle. He broke the record when he launched Gulbadin Naib for a flat straight hit over the Afghanistan captain's head. Impressive Morgan But the very next ball saw Morgan hole out off Naib to end a 71-ball innings that also featured four fours. His innings, which featured 118 runs in boundaries, was all the more impressive as Morgan had been doubtful for this match with a back spasm suffered in England's eight-wicket win over the West Indies, in which he could not bat. Jonny Bairstow got England off to a solid start, with England accelerating after James Vince fell for 26 when he mishooked paceman Dawlat Zadran to short fine-leg. In sight of his eighth ODI century, Bairstow's 99-ball innings ended when he chipped a return catch to Naib. Morgan, after an early mix-up that saw him sent back and get tangled up with opposing skipper Naib, settled in quickly. He hit Naib for two sixes including a fine drive over long-on. But the left-hander should have been out when he skied Rashid, only for Zadran at deep midwicket to make such a mess of the catch that the ball bounced out of his hands and over the rope for four. Not even Zadran's eventual return of 3-85 could undo the damage of that costly error, with Morgan immediately hitting a soaring six off Rashid's next ball in a 36th over that cost 18 runs. Root was denied a second successive hundred and third of the tournament when he holed out off Naib, whose 3-68 was a creditable return in the circumstances. But the sixes kept coming, Morgan's 11th bringing up a hundred in 57 balls, with only Ireland's Kevin O'Brien, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and South Africa's AB de Villiers having scored faster centuries at a World Cup. England set the ODI team record for sixes when Moeen Ali launched the penultimate delivery of the innings, from Zadran, over long-on.

England beat Afghanistan by 150 runs in Cricket World Cup

Britain on Monday announced a new 170 million-pound ($215 million) five-year aid package of urgent food, water and medicine assistance for people in Afghanistan.

"The humanitarian need in Afghanistan is severe," International Development Secretary Rory Stewart said after meeting Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in London.

"Fighting and extreme drought have left millions of people hungry and desperately seeking medical help, which is why UK aid is responding with life-saving food, water and basic healthcare, including polio vaccinations."

An estimated 13.5 million Afghans need humanitarian aid to ensure there is enough food for themselves and their families, Britain's development ministry said.

Britain on Monday announced a new 170 million-pound ($215 million) five-year aid package of urgent food, water and medicine assistance for people in Afghanistan.

Britain on Monday announced a new 170 million-pound ($215 million) five-year aid package of urgent food, water and medicine assistance for people in Afghanistan. "The humanitarian need in Afghanistan is severe," International Development Secretary Rory Stewart said after meeting Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in London. "Fighting and extreme drought have left millions of people hungry and desperately seeking medical help, which is why UK aid is responding with life-saving food, water and basic healthcare, including polio vaccinations." An estimated 13.5 million Afghans need humanitarian aid to ensure there is enough food for themselves and their families, Britain's development ministry said.

UK announces $215 million food, water and medical help for Afghanistan

South Africa kept alive their slim hopes of&nbsp;reaching the World Cup semi-finals by thumping a poor Afghanistan side by nine wickets on Saturday to record their first win of the tournament.

Afghanistan, who lost the toss in Cardiff, were dismissed for just 125 in 34.1 overs.

Quinton de Kock scored 68 for South Africa as they coasted home in the 28th over.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> half-century from Quinton de Kock, coupled with seven wickets between Imran Tahir and Chris Morris, saw South Africa claim their first win of the tournament over Afghanistan. 
 
The Proteas now have 3️⃣ points!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAFG</a> SCORECARD ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/1Pwa3jahvz">https://t.co/1Pwa3jahvz</a> <a href="https://t.co/M2tscWSLYR">pic.twitter.com/M2tscWSLYR</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1139969951731736576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

South Africa kept alive their slim hopes of reaching the World Cup semi-finals by thumping a poor Afghanistan side by nine wickets on Saturday to record their first win of the tournament.

South Africa kept alive their slim hopes of reaching the World Cup semi-finals by thumping a poor Afghanistan side by nine wickets on Saturday to record their first win of the tournament. Afghanistan, who lost the toss in Cardiff, were dismissed for just 125 in 34.1 overs. Quinton de Kock scored 68 for South Africa as they coasted home in the 28th over. A second #CWC19 half-century from Quinton de Kock, coupled with seven wickets between Imran Tahir and Chris Morris, saw South Africa claim their first win of the tournament over Afghanistan. The Proteas now have 3️⃣ points!#SAvAFG SCORECARD ▶️ https://t.co/1Pwa3jahvz pic.twitter.com/M2tscWSLYR — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 15, 2019 ×

South Africa beat Afghanistan by nine wickets in Cricket World Cup

An ancient tower dating back 2,000 years in the historic Afghan city of Ghazni collapsed this week, local officials said, raising concerns about the vulnerability of the country`s cultural heritage and the government`s ability to protect them.

The old citadel known as Ghaznain Fort originally had 36 towers, but 14 of the towers had collapsed in recent years due to decades of war, heavy rain and neglect.

The fort is one of dozens of unique historic sites in Afghanistan - ranging from the pre-Islamic Buddhist centre in the Bamyan valley to the 12th century minaret of Jam in a remote area of Ghor province - in urgent need of protection.

Officials in Ghazni, which nearly fell to the Taliban last year in some of the heaviest fighting seen in the war, said the tower collapsed on Tuesday following heavy rain. A short video posted on social media shows it crumbling but local residents say negligence also contributed to its collapse.&nbsp;

"The government paid no attention to the sites and didn`t build canals to divert flood water," said Ghulam Sakhi, who lives near the citadel. 
"We have warned the government about the dire condition of the citadel but no one visited," Sakhi said.

Mahbubullah Rahmani, acting director of culture and information in Ghazni, said heavy rain and recent fighting had contributed to the tower`s collapse but said the government was working on a plan to protect the site from complete destruction.

He said a German archaeologist had worked at the site as recently as 2013. 
Ghazni, a strategically vital centre on the main highway between Kabul and southern Afghanistan and two hour drive from the capital, is home to a range of cultural and archeological artefacts, some of which date back to pre-Islamic period.

The province and its cultural heritage was officially declared as Asian Capital of Islamic Culture in 2013 by the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, a Morocco-based body created in 1981, supported by UNESCO.

The collapse of the tower in Ghazni follows concern over the condition of the 900-year-old Minaret of Jam, in Ghor, which has been on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Properties in Danger since 2002.

The Taliban during their austere regime from 1996-2001, before they were toppled by the US and coalition force in late 2001, blew up two giant Buddha statues in central Bamiyan province, calling them idols.

An ancient tower dating back 2,000 years in the historic Afghan city of Ghazni collapsed this week, local officials said, raising concerns about the vulnerability of the country`s cultural heritage and the government`s ability to protect them.

An ancient tower dating back 2,000 years in the historic Afghan city of Ghazni collapsed this week, local officials said, raising concerns about the vulnerability of the country`s cultural heritage and the government`s ability to protect them. The old citadel known as Ghaznain Fort originally had 36 towers, but 14 of the towers had collapsed in recent years due to decades of war, heavy rain and neglect. The fort is one of dozens of unique historic sites in Afghanistan - ranging from the pre-Islamic Buddhist centre in the Bamyan valley to the 12th century minaret of Jam in a remote area of Ghor province - in urgent need of protection. Officials in Ghazni, which nearly fell to the Taliban last year in some of the heaviest fighting seen in the war, said the tower collapsed on Tuesday following heavy rain. A short video posted on social media shows it crumbling but local residents say negligence also contributed to its collapse. "The government paid no attention to the sites and didn`t build canals to divert flood water," said Ghulam Sakhi, who lives near the citadel. "We have warned the government about the dire condition of the citadel but no one visited," Sakhi said. Mahbubullah Rahmani, acting director of culture and information in Ghazni, said heavy rain and recent fighting had contributed to the tower`s collapse but said the government was working on a plan to protect the site from complete destruction. He said a German archaeologist had worked at the site as recently as 2013. Ghazni, a strategically vital centre on the main highway between Kabul and southern Afghanistan and two hour drive from the capital, is home to a range of cultural and archeological artefacts, some of which date back to pre-Islamic period. The province and its cultural heritage was officially declared as Asian Capital of Islamic Culture in 2013 by the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, a Morocco-based body created in 1981, supported by UNESCO. The collapse of the tower in Ghazni follows concern over the condition of the 900-year-old Minaret of Jam, in Ghor, which has been on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Properties in Danger since 2002. The Taliban during their austere regime from 1996-2001, before they were toppled by the US and coalition force in late 2001, blew up two giant Buddha statues in central Bamiyan province, calling them idols.

Ancient Afghan citadel collapses, cultural heritage sites at risk

PM Modi Is Expected To Meet Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani On The Sidelines Of The SCO Summit. Here's How The Relationship Stands. India's Former Ambassador To Afghanistan Speaks On India-Afghanistan Ties Ahead Of Modi's Meeting With Ashraf Ghani.

Gravitas: SCO Summit: PM to meet Afghan President

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday late evening for a bilateral meet on the sidelines of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-pleasantries-exchanged-between-pm-modi-and-imran-khan-on-day-1-of-sco-summit-226949">SCO Summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan</a>.

During the meet, India assured the Afghans that it will fulfil all the expectations of Afghanistan and Kabul in the path of "legitimate government chosen through democratic path".

In the bilateral meet that lasted for more than 30 minutes, PM Modi said neighbours can work together and gave the example of India-Bangladesh ties.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "The two sides exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and the role played by India towards an inclusive Afghanistan."

The Afghan president shared his views on the current situation in his country and how both New Delhi and Kabul should see drugs and terror together since the former fuels the latter.

He also shared his views on "sincerity of Pakistan" on action taken on terror group on its territory which has been a common cause of concern for both the countries.&nbsp;

New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest backer in the region. 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;

India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban, the country has undertaken projects and programmes of over $2 billion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday late evening for a bilateral meet on the sidelines of SCO Summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday late evening for a bilateral meet on the sidelines of SCO Summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. During the meet, India assured the Afghans that it will fulfil all the expectations of Afghanistan and Kabul in the path of "legitimate government chosen through democratic path". In the bilateral meet that lasted for more than 30 minutes, PM Modi said neighbours can work together and gave the example of India-Bangladesh ties. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "The two sides exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and the role played by India towards an inclusive Afghanistan." The Afghan president shared his views on the current situation in his country and how both New Delhi and Kabul should see drugs and terror together since the former fuels the latter. He also shared his views on "sincerity of Pakistan" on action taken on terror group on its territory which has been a common cause of concern for both the countries. New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest backer in the region. 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. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban, the country has undertaken projects and programmes of over $2 billion.

Will back legitimate government chosen through democratic path: PM Modi to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani

A suicide bomber targeted a police checkpoint Thursday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad, killing at least 11 people and wounding 13 others, an official said.

The Afghan arm of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, which was committed by an assailant on foot, said Attaullah Khogyani, a spokesman for the governor of Nangarhar province.

There was at least one child among the fatalities, while three others were wounded.

The area around Jalalabad is home to fighters from both the Taliban and the IS group's Afghan affiliate.

Last month, three blasts in rapid succession in the center of Jalalabad left three people dead and 20 wounded.

Until then, this city near the border with Pakistan had largely been spared from attacks and fighting, mainly with IS, in far-flung parts of the surrounding province.

However, in March, at least 16 civilians were killed in a suicide bombing followed by gunfire targeting a construction company near the city's airport. The Taliban said they were not behind that attack.

A wave of violence across Afghanistan in recent weeks has claimed the lives of dozens of civilians and security forces.

After 18 years of conflict, the Taliban are in negotiations with US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad for some sort of peace settlement.

A resolution still seems far off, with the two sides struggling to agree on several key points.

Khalilzad is in the country now meeting with political leaders and members of civil society in the hope of launching intra-Afghan talks with the Taliban.

The EU envoy for Afghanistan, Roland Kobia, is also here to support the process.

In a gesture of goodwill, the government announced Thursday it has released 490 Taliban prisoners who are ill or have less than a year left to serve.

They are among 887 prisoners that President Ashraf Ghani promised to free in early June as he marked the end of Ramadan.

Khalilzad is due to travel to Qatar in coming days for a new round of talks with the Taliban.

The goal of the negotiations is to set a timetable for the withdrawal of US troops in exchange for a Taliban pledge to keep the country from being used as a staging ground for terror attacks.

A suicide bomber targeted a police checkpoint Thursday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad, killing at least 11 people and wounding 13 others, an official said.

A suicide bomber targeted a police checkpoint Thursday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad, killing at least 11 people and wounding 13 others, an official said. The Afghan arm of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, which was committed by an assailant on foot, said Attaullah Khogyani, a spokesman for the governor of Nangarhar province. There was at least one child among the fatalities, while three others were wounded. The area around Jalalabad is home to fighters from both the Taliban and the IS group's Afghan affiliate. Last month, three blasts in rapid succession in the center of Jalalabad left three people dead and 20 wounded. Until then, this city near the border with Pakistan had largely been spared from attacks and fighting, mainly with IS, in far-flung parts of the surrounding province. However, in March, at least 16 civilians were killed in a suicide bombing followed by gunfire targeting a construction company near the city's airport. The Taliban said they were not behind that attack. A wave of violence across Afghanistan in recent weeks has claimed the lives of dozens of civilians and security forces. After 18 years of conflict, the Taliban are in negotiations with US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad for some sort of peace settlement. A resolution still seems far off, with the two sides struggling to agree on several key points. Khalilzad is in the country now meeting with political leaders and members of civil society in the hope of launching intra-Afghan talks with the Taliban. The EU envoy for Afghanistan, Roland Kobia, is also here to support the process. In a gesture of goodwill, the government announced Thursday it has released 490 Taliban prisoners who are ill or have less than a year left to serve. They are among 887 prisoners that President Ashraf Ghani promised to free in early June as he marked the end of Ramadan. Khalilzad is due to travel to Qatar in coming days for a new round of talks with the Taliban. The goal of the negotiations is to set a timetable for the withdrawal of US troops in exchange for a Taliban pledge to keep the country from being used as a staging ground for terror attacks.

Suicide bomber kills 11 in eastern Afghanistan

Pakistan PM Imran Khan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imran-khans-faux-pas-pakistan-pm-keeps-sitting-as-world-leaders-assemble-for-sco-summit-227020">addressing the SCO summit</a> leaders in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan said that his country was ready to share its "experience and expertise in counter-terrorism."

"We are among the few countries to have successfully turned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-better-cooperation-to-fight-terrorism-says-pm-modi-at-sco-summit-227042">tide against terrorism</a>," the Pak PM said, adding,"we will remain actively engaged in SCO's counter-terrorism initiatives."

"Threats from terrorism to climate change to narcotics to bacterial resistance continue to loom large," he said.

On developments in Afghanistan, the Pakistan prime minister said the conflict has "no military solution".&nbsp;

"Pakistan is fully supporting efforts for peace and reconciliation through an "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process", he said. "There is finally a realisation that the conflict in Afghanistan has no military solution."

"Pakistan's foreign policy is anchored on the inextricable link between peace and development," the Pak prime minister told SCO member nations.

Watch: PM Modi's tough stand against terror, no meet with Imran Khan

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sco-2019-pm-modis-tough-stand-against-terror-no-meet-with-imran-khan-226413/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We build partnerships based on mutual respect, sovereign equality and equal benefit," he asserted.

The Pakistan prime minister in his speech lauded the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) calling it a "flagship project of President Xi's far-sighted Belt and Road Initiative."

"Gwadar Port at its southern end marks the only point of convergence of the maritime Belt and overland road," Imran said in his speech.

"In time, CPEC is destined to catalyse the creation of an integrated pan-Asian sphere of shared prosperity," the Pakistan prime minister added.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan addressing the SCO summit leaders in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan said that his country was ready to share its "experience and expertise in counter-terrorism.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan addressing the SCO summit leaders in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan said that his country was ready to share its "experience and expertise in counter-terrorism." "We are among the few countries to have successfully turned the tide against terrorism," the Pak PM said, adding,"we will remain actively engaged in SCO's counter-terrorism initiatives." "Threats from terrorism to climate change to narcotics to bacterial resistance continue to loom large," he said. On developments in Afghanistan, the Pakistan prime minister said the conflict has "no military solution". "Pakistan is fully supporting efforts for peace and reconciliation through an "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process", he said. "There is finally a realisation that the conflict in Afghanistan has no military solution." "Pakistan's foreign policy is anchored on the inextricable link between peace and development," the Pak prime minister told SCO member nations. Watch: PM Modi's tough stand against terror, no meet with Imran Khan × "We build partnerships based on mutual respect, sovereign equality and equal benefit," he asserted. The Pakistan prime minister in his speech lauded the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) calling it a "flagship project of President Xi's far-sighted Belt and Road Initiative." "Gwadar Port at its southern end marks the only point of convergence of the maritime Belt and overland road," Imran said in his speech. "In time, CPEC is destined to catalyse the creation of an integrated pan-Asian sphere of shared prosperity," the Pakistan prime minister added.

Pak among few countries to have successfully turned the tide against terrorism: PM Imran Khan at SCO summit

A senior US general has called the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-defeated-caliphate-eliminated-says-us-ally-in-syria-205079">Islamic State</a>(IS) in Afghanistan as a serious threat, adding that the IS terrorist organisation&nbsp;aspires to attack the United States.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-next-islamic-state-battlefield-will-be-in-south-asia-216301">ISIS</a> in Afghanistan certainly has aspirations to attack the United States. It is our clear judgment that as long as we maintain pressure on them it will be hard for them to do that, " Marine General&nbsp;Frank McKenzie said.

Further calling the IS "very worrisome in eastern Afghanistan", McKenzie added, "combat operations have failed to reduce the group's fighting ranks. Others have said they are thought to number in the thousands".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/islamic-state-is-focusing-on-subcontinent-and-india-in-particular-219555">Islamic State is focusing on subcontinent and India in particular</a>

Associated Press had earlier reported that the Islamic State was expanding its footprints across Afghanistan. Citing US and Afghan security officials, the report claimed&nbsp;that the terror group was recruiting new fighters and plotting attacks on the United States and other western countries.

General McKenzie is the head of US Central Command and manages the country's military operations across the greater Middle East.

Watch: Wounded and alone, children emerge from last Islamic State enclave in Baghouz

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wounded-and-alone-children-emerge-from-last-islamic-state-enclave-in-baghouz-200827/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Islamic State grew in Afghanistan with the emergence of the jihadist militant group in Syria and Iraq in&nbsp;early 2014.

The IS in Afghanistan calls itself as the Khorasan Province, a name applied to parts of Afghanistan, Iran and central Asia in the Middle Ages.

Besides assisting the Afghan defence forces against the Taliban, the US forces in Afghanistan are combatting the Islamic State group separately.&nbsp;

A senior US general has called the Islamic State(IS) in Afghanistan as a serious threat, adding that the IS terrorist organisation aspires to attack the United States.

A senior US general has called the Islamic State(IS) in Afghanistan as a serious threat, adding that the IS terrorist organisation aspires to attack the United States. "ISIS in Afghanistan certainly has aspirations to attack the United States. It is our clear judgment that as long as we maintain pressure on them it will be hard for them to do that, " Marine General Frank McKenzie said. Further calling the IS "very worrisome in eastern Afghanistan", McKenzie added, "combat operations have failed to reduce the group's fighting ranks. Others have said they are thought to number in the thousands". Also read: Islamic State is focusing on subcontinent and India in particular Associated Press had earlier reported that the Islamic State was expanding its footprints across Afghanistan. Citing US and Afghan security officials, the report claimed that the terror group was recruiting new fighters and plotting attacks on the United States and other western countries. General McKenzie is the head of US Central Command and manages the country's military operations across the greater Middle East. Watch: Wounded and alone, children emerge from last Islamic State enclave in Baghouz × The Islamic State grew in Afghanistan with the emergence of the jihadist militant group in Syria and Iraq in early 2014. The IS in Afghanistan calls itself as the Khorasan Province, a name applied to parts of Afghanistan, Iran and central Asia in the Middle Ages. Besides assisting the Afghan defence forces against the Taliban, the US forces in Afghanistan are combatting the Islamic State group separately.

Islamic State in Afghanistan aspires to attack US: Marine General Frank McKenzie

Amidst peace talks and reconciliation efforts with the Taliban in Afghanistan, the Trump administration on Wednesday told a Congressional subcommittee that its assistance to the war-ravaged country should not be treated as a "blank check".

"Our assistance is not a blank check," Alice G Wells Senior State Department Official for South and Central Asian Affairs has told House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation in a prepared statement on Wednesday.

The sub-committee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing "US Interests in South Asia and the FY 2020 Budget" on Thursday.&nbsp;

"We expect the Afghan government will continue on a path of reform, and we will use the Afghanistan Compact as a means to monitor progress and discuss new reform objectives to tackle Afghanistan's biggest challenges," she said.&nbsp;

Afghanistan, Wells said, has made some progress on benchmarks in the Compact, including the conviction of high-level officials for corruption, independent management of security for the parliamentary elections, and improved government revenue collection. "Continued progress is needed," the US diplomat said.

President Donald Trump and the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have made clear that their top priority in the region is to end the war in Afghanistan through a sustainable political settlement that ensures that Afghanistan never again serves as a haven for terrorist attacks against the US or its interests.&nbsp;

"As we seek an end to the war, we are working with the Afghan government to define the parameters of a sustainable, long-term partnership with Afghanistan; civilian assistance will continue to play an important role," she said.

In recent discussions in Kabul, the Department of State and the Afghan government have agreed to focus US assistance on our highest priorities: furthering the peace process, ensuring Afghanistan does not serve as a terrorist safe haven, promoting Afghan self-reliance, and maintaining Afghan stability.&nbsp;

The US, she said, has smaller budgetary request for FY 2020 for Afghanistan and anticipates this having more focused portfolio.&nbsp;

However, significant prior year resources in the pipeline will allow US to avoid programme disruptions as they transition to a smaller portfolio and have flexibility to respond to a political settlement.&nbsp;

"We also stand ready to provide humanitarian support as needed, so that a natural disaster or a significant return of refugees won't undermine Afghanistan's push for peace and stability," Wells said.

"At the same time, the US is intensifying its engagement with partners," she said.&nbsp;

"At last year's Geneva Conference on Afghanistan, the United States called on donors to begin planning for post-settlement Afghanistan, and several countries have responded," she added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amidst peace talks and reconciliation efforts with the Taliban in Afghanistan, the Trump administration on Wednesday told a Congressional subcommittee that its assistance to the war-ravaged country should not be treated as a "blank check".

Amidst peace talks and reconciliation efforts with the Taliban in Afghanistan, the Trump administration on Wednesday told a Congressional subcommittee that its assistance to the war-ravaged country should not be treated as a "blank check". "Our assistance is not a blank check," Alice G Wells Senior State Department Official for South and Central Asian Affairs has told House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation in a prepared statement on Wednesday. The sub-committee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing "US Interests in South Asia and the FY 2020 Budget" on Thursday. "We expect the Afghan government will continue on a path of reform, and we will use the Afghanistan Compact as a means to monitor progress and discuss new reform objectives to tackle Afghanistan's biggest challenges," she said. Afghanistan, Wells said, has made some progress on benchmarks in the Compact, including the conviction of high-level officials for corruption, independent management of security for the parliamentary elections, and improved government revenue collection. "Continued progress is needed," the US diplomat said. President Donald Trump and the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have made clear that their top priority in the region is to end the war in Afghanistan through a sustainable political settlement that ensures that Afghanistan never again serves as a haven for terrorist attacks against the US or its interests. "As we seek an end to the war, we are working with the Afghan government to define the parameters of a sustainable, long-term partnership with Afghanistan; civilian assistance will continue to play an important role," she said. In recent discussions in Kabul, the Department of State and the Afghan government have agreed to focus US assistance on our highest priorities: furthering the peace process, ensuring Afghanistan does not serve as a terrorist safe haven, promoting Afghan self-reliance, and maintaining Afghan stability. The US, she said, has smaller budgetary request for FY 2020 for Afghanistan and anticipates this having more focused portfolio. However, significant prior year resources in the pipeline will allow US to avoid programme disruptions as they transition to a smaller portfolio and have flexibility to respond to a political settlement. "We also stand ready to provide humanitarian support as needed, so that a natural disaster or a significant return of refugees won't undermine Afghanistan's push for peace and stability," Wells said. "At the same time, the US is intensifying its engagement with partners," she said. "At last year's Geneva Conference on Afghanistan, the United States called on donors to begin planning for post-settlement Afghanistan, and several countries have responded," she added.

Assistance to Afghanistan not blank check says US

afghanistan-0

Afghanistan, News on Afghanistan, stories on Afghanistan, articles on Afghanistan, Afghanistan stories at Wion, Afghanistan news, Afghanistan latest news

afghanistan 0