Ties between India and Afghanistan have traditionally been strong and friendly. Another important factor is Pakistan. As both Pakistan and Afghanistan are geo-politically and geo-strategically interlocked, any development in Kabul directly affects Islamabad.

India and Afghanistan share deep cultural and economic ties. The bilateral trade stood at 590 million dollars in 2016-17. India exports goods worth 377 million dollars to Afghanistan, and imports goods worth 212 million dollars.

In the last 16 years, India’s projects in Afghanistan have crossed two billion dollars.

India has built more than 200 public and private schools in Afghanistan. It sponsors over 1,000 scholarships and hosts over 16,000 Afghan students in India annually.

Former Afghan president, Hamid Karzai, is an alumnus of Himachal Pradesh University.

In 2017, both countries agreed to kickstart an ambitious ‘new development partnership’. India agreed to take up 116 high-impact development projects for 31 Afghan provinces.

Moreover, India provides significant training opportunities for Afghan officials, approximately 130 Afghans travel to India to attend various programmes each year. India has also given four military helicopters to Afghanistan.

But things have not been as rosy as they are now. The relationship suffered a jolt in 1979 at the height of the Cold War. That was when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghans-gear-up-to-vote-despite-ongoing-fighting-in-as-many-as-20-out-of-34-provinces-172398">Afghans gear to vote despite ongoing crisis in as many as 20 out of 34 provinces</a>

The United States and its allies, including Pakistan, fought a proxy war, supporting Afghan rebels against the Soviet-backed Afghan government.

India chose to stick to its non-alignment policy and stayed out of it but recognised the Afghan government.

The war led to the creation of the Taliban terrorist group and India became one of its fierce opponents.

New Delhi accepted thousands of Afghan refugees escaping Taliban atrocities, provided over 750 million dollars in humanitarian and economic aid, and eventually became one of Afghanistan's biggest trading partners.

In 2005, India proposed Afghanistan's membership in the south Asian association for regional cooperation or SAARC.

Culturally too, India and Afghanistan are closely knit. While Afghanistan is known to love Bollywood, the gentlemen's game of cricket is doing well in the country.

Afghanistan's cricket captain Rashid Khan is one of the favourites in the Indian Premier League.

Afghanistan even played its first-ever international test match against India, in India, in June this year.

The world is aware of the deep ties between India and Afghanistan.

In July this year, the US defence ministry told its legislature that India is Afghanistan's "most reliable regional partner". Undeniably, Afghanistan is a crucial ally for India. 
&nbsp;

Ties between India and Afghanistan have traditionally been strong and friendly. Another important factor is Pakistan. As both Pakistan and Afghanistan are geo-politically and geo-strategically interlocked, any development in Kabul directly affects Islamabad.

Ties between India and Afghanistan have traditionally been strong and friendly. Another important factor is Pakistan. As both Pakistan and Afghanistan are geo-politically and geo-strategically interlocked, any development in Kabul directly affects Islamabad. India and Afghanistan share deep cultural and economic ties. The bilateral trade stood at 590 million dollars in 2016-17. India exports goods worth 377 million dollars to Afghanistan, and imports goods worth 212 million dollars. In the last 16 years, India’s projects in Afghanistan have crossed two billion dollars. India has built more than 200 public and private schools in Afghanistan. It sponsors over 1,000 scholarships and hosts over 16,000 Afghan students in India annually. Former Afghan president, Hamid Karzai, is an alumnus of Himachal Pradesh University. In 2017, both countries agreed to kickstart an ambitious ‘new development partnership’. India agreed to take up 116 high-impact development projects for 31 Afghan provinces. Moreover, India provides significant training opportunities for Afghan officials, approximately 130 Afghans travel to India to attend various programmes each year. India has also given four military helicopters to Afghanistan. But things have not been as rosy as they are now. The relationship suffered a jolt in 1979 at the height of the Cold War. That was when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. Also read: Afghans gear to vote despite ongoing crisis in as many as 20 out of 34 provinces The United States and its allies, including Pakistan, fought a proxy war, supporting Afghan rebels against the Soviet-backed Afghan government. India chose to stick to its non-alignment policy and stayed out of it but recognised the Afghan government. The war led to the creation of the Taliban terrorist group and India became one of its fierce opponents. New Delhi accepted thousands of Afghan refugees escaping Taliban atrocities, provided over 750 million dollars in humanitarian and economic aid, and eventually became one of Afghanistan's biggest trading partners. In 2005, India proposed Afghanistan's membership in the south Asian association for regional cooperation or SAARC. Culturally too, India and Afghanistan are closely knit. While Afghanistan is known to love Bollywood, the gentlemen's game of cricket is doing well in the country. Afghanistan's cricket captain Rashid Khan is one of the favourites in the Indian Premier League. Afghanistan even played its first-ever international test match against India, in India, in June this year. The world is aware of the deep ties between India and Afghanistan. In July this year, the US defence ministry told its legislature that India is Afghanistan's "most reliable regional partner". Undeniably, Afghanistan is a crucial ally for India.

Why Afghanistan election matters to India?

WION Gravitas: Afghanistan goes to the polls on Saturday

Watch: In conversation with Mariam Wardak, candidate Afghanistan polls

Pakistan on Friday closed down two main border crossings with Afghanistan for two days on the request of Kabul to facilitate the smooth conduct of upcoming parliamentary elections in the war-torn country.

The Foreign Office said that the Afghan government sent a request to keep the friendship gates on Pakistan-Afghanistan border crossing points at Chaman and Torkham closed on October 19 and 20.

"The decision (to shut gates) has been taken to support Afghanistan in smooth conduct of upcoming Parliamentary elections in the country (on Saturday)," the FO said.

It further said that both the crossing points will remain closed for all kinds of traffic except emergency cases.

Thousands of people cross into the two neighbours every day for business, medical treatment and meet relatives.

Pakistan on Friday closed down two main border crossings with Afghanistan for two days on the request of Kabul to facilitate the smooth conduct of upcoming parliamentary elections in the war-torn country.

Pakistan on Friday closed down two main border crossings with Afghanistan for two days on the request of Kabul to facilitate the smooth conduct of upcoming parliamentary elections in the war-torn country. The Foreign Office said that the Afghan government sent a request to keep the friendship gates on Pakistan-Afghanistan border crossing points at Chaman and Torkham closed on October 19 and 20. "The decision (to shut gates) has been taken to support Afghanistan in smooth conduct of upcoming Parliamentary elections in the country (on Saturday)," the FO said. It further said that both the crossing points will remain closed for all kinds of traffic except emergency cases. Thousands of people cross into the two neighbours every day for business, medical treatment and meet relatives.

Pakistan closes 2 border gates ahead of Afghan elections

Afghanistan goes to polls on Saturday. Ahead of the elections, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal spoke to Amrullah Saleh, former chief of Afghanistan's intelligence agency--National Directorate of Security (NDS). He was the chief of the intelligence agency from 2004-2010, the longest-serving chief of the NDS.

Saleh lauded India Afghan ties and said, "we look at India as an ally from all aspect" but on Pakistan, he said, "terrorist sanctuaries" continue inside the country.

WION: How do you see India Afghanistan ties?

Amrullah Saleh: The relationship between Afghanistan and India is the best. But there is room for more expansion and more improvement, room for trade between the two&nbsp;countries go far beyond what we have today. Security cooperation must expand and there is space for it.

India is very generous in the provision for scholarships for Afghan students and that has brought a significant change in capacity of Afghan administration, it has helped Afghanistan to have much better human capital but still, it can be expanded. India is seen as the development partner of the country. Of course, cultural ties have always been there for centuries and thousands and thousands of years. We look at India as an ally from all aspect.

WION: A political change has come to Pakistan. There has been talk of 'Naya Pakistan. Do you see a change?

Saleh: We have ways to measure if anything is new there. Our criteria for measuring relationship is -- have terror attacks decreased in my country? No. Have they closed safe havens in Pakistan? No. Have they forced out Taliban leader from the country? The answer is no. So for as long as there is terrorism, for as long as there is proxy conflict, for as long as Pakistanis try to influence the situation in Afghanistan through the barrel of terrorist guns, regardless of the developments within Pakistan, relationship with Afghanistan will not see much improvement.

WION: So you don't see much change from Imran Khan?

Saleh: So far we have not seen any tangible change. Every time there is a new Prime Minister or some change in Pakistan they bring new words, they bring new phrases and they spin their narrative but as far as practical steps are concerned, no steps have been taken to mitigate some of the boldest concerns Afghanistan has expressed for years and years about the existence of terrorist sanctuaries inside Pakistan.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see US Taliban talks. Its Impact?

Saleh: The position of Afghans is that the negotiation process should be owned, led and under control of the Afghan government. Afghan government must have a consensus of the political class of the Afghan people. The ongoing negotiation between the US and the Taliban doesn't necessarily mean our aspirations or our interest are represented by the American delegation. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan goes to polls on Saturday. Ahead of the elections, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal spoke to Amrullah Saleh, former chief of Afghanistan's intelligence agency--National Directorate of Security (NDS).

Afghanistan goes to polls on Saturday. Ahead of the elections, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibal spoke to Amrullah Saleh, former chief of Afghanistan's intelligence agency--National Directorate of Security (NDS). He was the chief of the intelligence agency from 2004-2010, the longest-serving chief of the NDS. Saleh lauded India Afghan ties and said, "we look at India as an ally from all aspect" but on Pakistan, he said, "terrorist sanctuaries" continue inside the country. WION: How do you see India Afghanistan ties? Amrullah Saleh: The relationship between Afghanistan and India is the best. But there is room for more expansion and more improvement, room for trade between the two countries go far beyond what we have today. Security cooperation must expand and there is space for it. India is very generous in the provision for scholarships for Afghan students and that has brought a significant change in capacity of Afghan administration, it has helped Afghanistan to have much better human capital but still, it can be expanded. India is seen as the development partner of the country. Of course, cultural ties have always been there for centuries and thousands and thousands of years. We look at India as an ally from all aspect. WION: A political change has come to Pakistan. There has been talk of 'Naya Pakistan. Do you see a change? Saleh: We have ways to measure if anything is new there. Our criteria for measuring relationship is -- have terror attacks decreased in my country? No. Have they closed safe havens in Pakistan? No. Have they forced out Taliban leader from the country? The answer is no. So for as long as there is terrorism, for as long as there is proxy conflict, for as long as Pakistanis try to influence the situation in Afghanistan through the barrel of terrorist guns, regardless of the developments within Pakistan, relationship with Afghanistan will not see much improvement. WION: So you don't see much change from Imran Khan? Saleh: So far we have not seen any tangible change. Every time there is a new Prime Minister or some change in Pakistan they bring new words, they bring new phrases and they spin their narrative but as far as practical steps are concerned, no steps have been taken to mitigate some of the boldest concerns Afghanistan has expressed for years and years about the existence of terrorist sanctuaries inside Pakistan. WION: How do you see US Taliban talks. Its Impact? Saleh: The position of Afghans is that the negotiation process should be owned, led and under control of the Afghan government. Afghan government must have a consensus of the political class of the Afghan people. The ongoing negotiation between the US and the Taliban doesn't necessarily mean our aspirations or our interest are represented by the American delegation.

India an ally in all aspect: Former head of Afghan intelligence to WION

Pakistan on Thursday said that the US should stay in Afghanistan until peace was achieved in the war-torn country.

Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that withdrawal of US troops could result in chaos seen after Soviet troops' pullout in the late 1980s.

"Pakistan has been reiterating that the US forces should stay in Afghanistan till the achievement of complete peace and stability. I would like to draw your attention to the chaos in the aftermath of the withdrawal of USSR in the late 1980s. The region cannot afford anything similar, at this time," he said.

To a question about the reported meeting of US officials with Taliban leaders in Qatar, the spokesman said it showed that there was no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan.

"We are pleased that other important actors are also arriving at the same conclusion (that there is no military solution) and are exploring possibilities of initiating a peace and reconciliation process," he said.

He said Pakistan is building border management infrastructure along the Afghan border with a view to stop the cross-border movement of terrorists, smugglers and other undesired elements while facilitating legitimate trade and travel between the two countries.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Thursday said that the US should stay in Afghanistan until peace was achieved in the war-torn country. Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that withdrawal of US troops could result in chaos seen after Soviet troops' pullout in the late 1980s.

Pakistan on Thursday said that the US should stay in Afghanistan until peace was achieved in the war-torn country. Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that withdrawal of US troops could result in chaos seen after Soviet troops' pullout in the late 1980s. "Pakistan has been reiterating that the US forces should stay in Afghanistan till the achievement of complete peace and stability. I would like to draw your attention to the chaos in the aftermath of the withdrawal of USSR in the late 1980s. The region cannot afford anything similar, at this time," he said. To a question about the reported meeting of US officials with Taliban leaders in Qatar, the spokesman said it showed that there was no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. "We are pleased that other important actors are also arriving at the same conclusion (that there is no military solution) and are exploring possibilities of initiating a peace and reconciliation process," he said. He said Pakistan is building border management infrastructure along the Afghan border with a view to stop the cross-border movement of terrorists, smugglers and other undesired elements while facilitating legitimate trade and travel between the two countries.

US should stay in Afghanistan until peace achieved: Pakistan

Afghanistan which has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-election-in-the-shadow-of-terror-171981">reeling under the terror of the Taliban</a> has managed to give its female population a fair representation in its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-importance-of-afghan-elections-possible-withdrawal-of-foreign-troops-172166">democratic process</a>.&nbsp;

The country which is marred by violence, where legislators especially women face severe threats from the Taliban, reserves 68 of the 249 seats in the parliament for women.

Unlike India, Afghanistan passed a law in 2005 guaranteeing over one-fourth of seats in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/understanding-the-afghanistan-parliamentary-elections-171961">parliament</a> and over 30 provincial councils to be reserved for women.

During the last elections that were held in 2010, 69 women were elected to parliament – one more than the minimum.

For this year's election, out of the two thousand candidates running, a historic 417 are women.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-how-long-will-indias-women-for-womens-reservation-bill-35072">Opinion: How long will India's women wait for Women's Reservation Bill?</a>

India has been struggling to pass a bill that ensures one-third reservation for women in parliament.&nbsp;

Women make up for nearly half the population in India, but in a 542-member strong lower house, they make up for a mere 11.6 per cent.&nbsp;

The women's reservation bill was first tabled in the Indian parliament in 1996. The bill which is waiting for consent has been passed along from one house to another.

The women's reservation bill in India was cleared from the Rajya Sabha in March 2010. It has however not received the assent of the lower house i.e Lok Sabha for the last eight years.

 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan which has been reeling under the terror of the Taliban has managed to give its female population a fair representation in its democratic process. The country which is marred by violence, where legislators especially women face severe threats from the Taliban, reserves 68 of the 249 seats in the parliament for women.

Afghanistan which has been reeling under the terror of the Taliban has managed to give its female population a fair representation in its democratic process. The country which is marred by violence, where legislators especially women face severe threats from the Taliban, reserves 68 of the 249 seats in the parliament for women. Unlike India, Afghanistan passed a law in 2005 guaranteeing over one-fourth of seats in the parliament and over 30 provincial councils to be reserved for women. During the last elections that were held in 2010, 69 women were elected to parliament – one more than the minimum. For this year's election, out of the two thousand candidates running, a historic 417 are women. Also read: Opinion: How long will India's women wait for Women's Reservation Bill? India has been struggling to pass a bill that ensures one-third reservation for women in parliament. Women make up for nearly half the population in India, but in a 542-member strong lower house, they make up for a mere 11.6 per cent. The women's reservation bill was first tabled in the Indian parliament in 1996. The bill which is waiting for consent has been passed along from one house to another. The women's reservation bill in India was cleared from the Rajya Sabha in March 2010. It has however not received the assent of the lower house i.e Lok Sabha for the last eight years.

Unlike India, women in Afghanistan enjoy fair representation in democratic process

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-cm-of-up-uttarakhand-nd-tiwari-dies-at-93-172117">Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93</a>

The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-afghan-official-killed-in-shooting-us-general-unhurt-172141">Afghanistan: Kandahar police chief killed in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-afghan-official-killed-in-shooting-us-general-unhurt-172141">shooting</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-afghan-official-killed-in-shooting-us-general-unhurt-172141">, top US general escapes unhurt</a>

The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-mexico-threatens-to-close-southern-border-172134">Trump threatens to 'CLOSE BORDER' if Mexico does not stop </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-mexico-threatens-to-close-southern-border-172134">migrant</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-mexico-threatens-to-close-southern-border-172134"> caravan</a>

President Donald Trump threatened Thursday to "CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN BORDER" if Mexico does not act against a migrant caravan travelling towards the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-polls-voters-seek-happiness-in-new-government-172119">Bhutan polls: Voters seek happiness in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-polls-voters-seek-happiness-in-new-government-172119">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-polls-voters-seek-happiness-in-new-government-172119"> government</a>

The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, wedged between India and China, voted in a national election Thursday guaranteed to usher in a new ruling party which must boost the economy without compromising the country's fierce independent streak.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-launch-artificial-moon-bright-enought-to-replace-streetlights-in-chengdu-city-172113">China to launch 3 'artificial moons', will replace streetlights of city</a>

China is reportedly in the process of launching "artificials moon" into orbit which will be bright enough to illuminate Chengdu, the southwestern province of Sichuan in China.

 
 
&nbsp;

Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93 The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi.

Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93 The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi. Afghanistan: Kandahar police chief killed in shooting, top US general escapes unhurt The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said. Trump threatens to 'CLOSE BORDER' if Mexico does not stop migrant caravan President Donald Trump threatened Thursday to "CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN BORDER" if Mexico does not act against a migrant caravan travelling towards the US-Mexico border. Bhutan polls: Voters seek happiness in new government The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, wedged between India and China, voted in a national election Thursday guaranteed to usher in a new ruling party which must boost the economy without compromising the country's fierce independent streak. China to launch 3 'artificial moons', will replace streetlights of city China is reportedly in the process of launching "artificials moon" into orbit which will be bright enough to illuminate Chengdu, the southwestern province of Sichuan in China.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Doctors, mullahs, sons of warlords, feminists and even a prison inmate are among a motley crew of candidates contesting war-torn Afghanistan's October 20 legislative election.

more than 2,500 candidates campaigning for the third parliamentary ballot since the fall of the Taliban in 2001 have turned the political scene into a game of Where's Wally.

Digitally-enhanced photos of political hopefuls, many of them running for the first time, have been plastered on blast walls, lamp posts and restaurant facades next to their symbol -- such as a palm tree or a cricket bat -- to help the largely illiterate population identify them.

Improving security and stamping out corruption are among the lofty promises made by candidates as they compete for the 249-seat lower house, which is widely derided as a lazy, ineffective body full of gangsters.

"I am a medical doctor so I know the pathology of society, where the problems lie and how to solve them," said Ahmad Tamim Rahman, who is among more than 800 candidates contesting the 33 seats allocated to Kabul.

"I am frustrated with the situation, with the never-ending poverty, war and misery."

But campaigning for public office is challenging in a country where daily life is stalked by the threat of suicide attacks and fierce fighting between militants and government security forces.

Hundreds of people have been killed or wounded in the months leading up to the long-delayed ballot. At least nine candidates have died so far, most of them murdered in targeted killings.

The Taliban has warned candidates to withdraw from the ballot, which it has vowed to attack.

Kabul women's rights activist turned candidate Wida Saghary said she was not intimidated.

"I have always risked my life to fight for the rights of people, in particular women," Saghary told.

"I am not afraid now that I am running for a seat in parliament."&nbsp;

MINEY MEANS VOTES &nbsp;

There are lucrative incentives for taking the risk to contest Afghanistan's lower house, which is tasked with making laws and overseeing the government.

An MP receives a monthly salary package of at least 200,000 afghanis (more than $2,600), including an allowance for bodyguards and other expenses -- a fortune in a country where more than half of the population lives in poverty.

Immunity from prosecution also keeps them out of jail if MPs fall foul of the law and there are plenty of opportunities to exploit their powerful positions in business deals.

And many MPs have a record of sparse attendance in the chamber and often stay in Kabul rather than travel back to their home provinces.

At least one candidate hopes he can represent his constituents from a prison cell.

Convicted fraudster Abdul Karim Shafaq is still in the race for the western province of Farah even though he is serving a two-year jail sentence, a spokesman for the attorney general's office confirmed.&nbsp;

Sitting MP Kobra Mustafawi, who represented Kabul in the previous parliament and is seeking another term, said she was different.

Mustafawi said she had always defended the underprivileged and would "continue to fight for their rights", she told.&nbsp;

Rahman, who has pledged to make "streets from gold, schools from diamonds and universities from emeralds" if elected, said he was not after power or privilege either.

Afghanistan was lagging behind its neighbours and "I am trying to find a way to change that", he said.&nbsp;

Rahman might struggle to convince voters.

An Asia Foundation survey published in August shows only 10 per cent of Afghan respondents believed lawmakers "cared about national issues".

In contrast, 37 per cent thought they were more concerned with their "personal interests".

Money, not altruism, was the key to getting elected in Afghanistan, said Thomas Ruttig, co-director of Afghanistan Analysts Network.&nbsp;

Deep pockets were needed to buy votes and stuff ballots -- common practices in previous polls.&nbsp;

But women's rights activist Saghary hopes to change the negative perception of MPs, starting with a promise to be "a representative, not a kidnapper" and revoke her immunity from prosecution.

"We should be held accountable for our deeds like the rest of the country," she said.

Doctors, mullahs, sons of warlords, feminists and even a prison inmate are among a motley crew of candidates contesting war-torn Afghanistan's October 20 legislative election.

Doctors, mullahs, sons of warlords, feminists and even a prison inmate are among a motley crew of candidates contesting war-torn Afghanistan's October 20 legislative election. more than 2,500 candidates campaigning for the third parliamentary ballot since the fall of the Taliban in 2001 have turned the political scene into a game of Where's Wally. Digitally-enhanced photos of political hopefuls, many of them running for the first time, have been plastered on blast walls, lamp posts and restaurant facades next to their symbol -- such as a palm tree or a cricket bat -- to help the largely illiterate population identify them. Improving security and stamping out corruption are among the lofty promises made by candidates as they compete for the 249-seat lower house, which is widely derided as a lazy, ineffective body full of gangsters. "I am a medical doctor so I know the pathology of society, where the problems lie and how to solve them," said Ahmad Tamim Rahman, who is among more than 800 candidates contesting the 33 seats allocated to Kabul. "I am frustrated with the situation, with the never-ending poverty, war and misery." But campaigning for public office is challenging in a country where daily life is stalked by the threat of suicide attacks and fierce fighting between militants and government security forces. Hundreds of people have been killed or wounded in the months leading up to the long-delayed ballot. At least nine candidates have died so far, most of them murdered in targeted killings. The Taliban has warned candidates to withdraw from the ballot, which it has vowed to attack. Kabul women's rights activist turned candidate Wida Saghary said she was not intimidated. "I have always risked my life to fight for the rights of people, in particular women," Saghary told. "I am not afraid now that I am running for a seat in parliament." MINEY MEANS VOTES There are lucrative incentives for taking the risk to contest Afghanistan's lower house, which is tasked with making laws and overseeing the government. An MP receives a monthly salary package of at least 200,000 afghanis (more than $2,600), including an allowance for bodyguards and other expenses -- a fortune in a country where more than half of the population lives in poverty. Immunity from prosecution also keeps them out of jail if MPs fall foul of the law and there are plenty of opportunities to exploit their powerful positions in business deals. And many MPs have a record of sparse attendance in the chamber and often stay in Kabul rather than travel back to their home provinces. At least one candidate hopes he can represent his constituents from a prison cell. Convicted fraudster Abdul Karim Shafaq is still in the race for the western province of Farah even though he is serving a two-year jail sentence, a spokesman for the attorney general's office confirmed. Sitting MP Kobra Mustafawi, who represented Kabul in the previous parliament and is seeking another term, said she was different. Mustafawi said she had always defended the underprivileged and would "continue to fight for their rights", she told. Rahman, who has pledged to make "streets from gold, schools from diamonds and universities from emeralds" if elected, said he was not after power or privilege either. Afghanistan was lagging behind its neighbours and "I am trying to find a way to change that", he said. Rahman might struggle to convince voters. An Asia Foundation survey published in August shows only 10 per cent of Afghan respondents believed lawmakers "cared about national issues". In contrast, 37 per cent thought they were more concerned with their "personal interests". Money, not altruism, was the key to getting elected in Afghanistan, said Thomas Ruttig, co-director of Afghanistan Analysts Network. Deep pockets were needed to buy votes and stuff ballots -- common practices in previous polls. But women's rights activist Saghary hopes to change the negative perception of MPs, starting with a promise to be "a representative, not a kidnapper" and revoke her immunity from prosecution. "We should be held accountable for our deeds like the rest of the country," she said.

Watch: Who would want to be an Afghan MP?

The deadly violence in Afghanistan has escalated in the country ahead of the October 20 parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

A third blast struck Afghanistan on Wednesday killing another Afghan candidate, Jabar Qahraman.

Qahraman's death has taken the number of candidates' killing&nbsp;in Afghanistan to 10.

Most of the 10 candidates who have died in the lead-up to the election were murdered in targeted killings.

Qahraman was the second candidate killed in Lashkar Gah this month after Saleh Mohammad Asikzaiwho was killed in a suicide attack last week.

The Taliban which has been perpetrating the attacks&nbsp;had earlier warned candidates to withdraw their names from the parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

It has also issued a fresh warning calling on "educational workers" to stop schools being turned into polling centres and prevent teachers and students from participating as workers.

The Taliban which ruled from 1996 to 2001 demand the boycott of the elections to overthrow the Western-backed government and restore their Islamist regime.

In their fight against the government, the outfit has been perpetrating attacks in the country to stop the authorities and the civilians from participating in the election process.

About hundreds of people have been killed or wounded in the attacks across the country&nbsp;ahead of the elections in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

20 Afghanistan soldiers were killed while 11 others were injured in an attack on two military check posts in the western Farah province bordering Iran on Sunday.

22 people were killed last week in an explosion at an election rally for a woman candidate in the northeastern province of Takhar.

In the wake of the escalating violence, preparations for the election also remains in shambles. The authorities are still struggling to distribute voting materials to more than 5000 polling centres.&nbsp;

The election for parliament's lower house is seen as a dry run for the presidential vote scheduled for April.

Almost nine million people have registered to vote, but observers expect far fewer to turn out due to the threat of militant attacks and expectations of widespread fraud.

More than 50,000 members of Afghanistan's already overstretched security forces are being deployed to protect polling centres on election day.

About dozens of Afghan police officers were killed in two attacks claimed by Taliban on October 16 in the northern province of Samangan and in the Central province of Daikundi.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The deadly violence in Afghanistan has escalated in the country ahead of the October 20 parliamentary elections. A third blast struck Afghanistan on Wednesday killing another Afghan candidate, Jabar Qahraman.

The deadly violence in Afghanistan has escalated in the country ahead of the October 20 parliamentary elections. A third blast struck Afghanistan on Wednesday killing another Afghan candidate, Jabar Qahraman. Qahraman's death has taken the number of candidates' killing in Afghanistan to 10. Most of the 10 candidates who have died in the lead-up to the election were murdered in targeted killings. Qahraman was the second candidate killed in Lashkar Gah this month after Saleh Mohammad Asikzaiwho was killed in a suicide attack last week. The Taliban which has been perpetrating the attacks had earlier warned candidates to withdraw their names from the parliamentary elections. It has also issued a fresh warning calling on "educational workers" to stop schools being turned into polling centres and prevent teachers and students from participating as workers. The Taliban which ruled from 1996 to 2001 demand the boycott of the elections to overthrow the Western-backed government and restore their Islamist regime. In their fight against the government, the outfit has been perpetrating attacks in the country to stop the authorities and the civilians from participating in the election process. About hundreds of people have been killed or wounded in the attacks across the country ahead of the elections in Afghanistan. 20 Afghanistan soldiers were killed while 11 others were injured in an attack on two military check posts in the western Farah province bordering Iran on Sunday. 22 people were killed last week in an explosion at an election rally for a woman candidate in the northeastern province of Takhar. In the wake of the escalating violence, preparations for the election also remains in shambles. The authorities are still struggling to distribute voting materials to more than 5000 polling centres. The election for parliament's lower house is seen as a dry run for the presidential vote scheduled for April. Almost nine million people have registered to vote, but observers expect far fewer to turn out due to the threat of militant attacks and expectations of widespread fraud. More than 50,000 members of Afghanistan's already overstretched security forces are being deployed to protect polling centres on election day. About dozens of Afghan police officers were killed in two attacks claimed by Taliban on October 16 in the northern province of Samangan and in the Central province of Daikundi. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan elections: In the shadow of terror

&nbsp;More female candidates than ever are set to contest Afghanistan's upcoming parliamentary election, braving violence and opposition from social conservatives in a campaign seen as a test of the war-torn nation's democratic institutions.

"Elections in my country are not just about victory or defeat," said Dewa Niazai, a 26 year-old candidate from the eastern province of Nangarhar, who holds a degree in computer science from India. "It is about launching a small-scale war. I can get killed, injured or abducted."

Niazai is one of the 417 women candidates contesting seats across the country, despite deadly suicide attacks on election rallies and offices apparently aimed at forcing voters to boycott the vote scheduled for October 20.

She says she wants to be a voice for uneducated women who are not represented in parliament and to defend girls' rights to education - Islamic State has blown up several girls' schools in her Nangarhar constituency.

The growing involvement of women has been welcomed by the United Nations and other international bodies, which see the elections as a vital step in building trust in democratic processes.

Campaigning is fraught with risks regardless of gender. Nine candidates, including one woman, have been killed in separate attacks. Another two have been abducted, and four others have been wounded by hardline Islamist militants, election officials said.

Last week a blast at an election rally of a woman candidate in the northeastern province of Takhar killed 22 people and wounded 35.

Nazifa Yousuf Bek, the female candidate, was standing about 10 metres away when the explosion occurred.

"My supporters were waiting to listen to my speech but in a few seconds I was surrounded by their bodies," the 32-year-old teacher told Reuters. "I am shaken but I am also determined to continue the election campaign. This is my responsibility."

For women, there are additional challenges, said Maria Bashir, Afghanistan's first female prosecutor from Herat province, who like other women candidates interviewed by Reuters had until recently never seriously contemplated entering politics.

"In comparison with male candidates, women have more problems in the election race ... insecurity and harassment inhibit women's mobility and justify family restrictions," she said.

Echoing other women candidates who spoke to Reuters, Bashir says she is standing for election after growing dismayed with the direction of the country, starting with the failure of the government to improve security or safeguard women's rights.

Unable to hold open rallies because of security concerns, Bashir invites voters to attend political discussions at her home, and travels around the city at night to distribute publicity pamphlets and encourage voters to cast their ballot.

Sabri Andar, the only female candidate with disabilities, is contesting a seat in Kabul. She said her main focus would be on ensuring rights legislation was not ignored.

"Laws about equality exist on paper but they are yet to implemented," she said. "As a lawmaker I want to ensure we practice what is written in our constitution."

Women's rights advocates say that, despite the heavy emphasis placed on promoting equality by international donors, age-old scourges such as child marriage or the murder of women by family members in so-called "honour killings" remain rife. Afghan girls still routinely receive less schooling than boys.

Under the constitution written after the austere rule of the Taliban was ended by U.S.-backed Afghan forces in 2001, at least 68 of the 250 seats in the lower house of parliament are reserved for women. The quota means that Afghanistan fares better in a simple measure of female representation in the legislature than some Western nations - 28 per cent of seats in the lower house are currently held by women, 8 points higher than the U.S. Congress.

But female candidates campaigning in their constituencies say Afghanistan's patriarchal culture means they face a battle to be heard even if they win.

"We are trained to dress in a way that is acceptable to men, we talk in a way that does not anger men and, in politics, we are expected to appease them to stay relevant," said Masooda Jalal, a former minister of women's affairs.

As well as facing sexual harassment, a regular problem that is rarely discussed openly because of strict social taboos, many women MPs complain they are not taken seriously by their male counterparts.

Women in positions of authority said they were often perceived as puppets who can procure funds from international aid groups committed to promoting gender equality.

Rights group activists in Kabul said more than three dozen bills drafted to strengthen the existing laws to safeguard the rights of millions of Afghan women were pending before the parliament but have not been allotted time for debate.

Nasrullah Stanekzai, a political science professor at Kabul University and a former legal advisor to President Ashraf Ghani said ethnic, religious, political and financial loyalties of female candidate limit their role.

"Females candidates win elections with the help of powerful male politicians who in turn expects them to work as stooges in the parliament, rarely allowing them to have an independent opinion," said Stanekzai.

More female candidates than ever are set to contest Afghanistan's upcoming parliamentary election, braving violence and opposition from social conservatives in a campaign seen as a test of the war-torn nation's democratic institutions.

More female candidates than ever are set to contest Afghanistan's upcoming parliamentary election, braving violence and opposition from social conservatives in a campaign seen as a test of the war-torn nation's democratic institutions. "Elections in my country are not just about victory or defeat," said Dewa Niazai, a 26 year-old candidate from the eastern province of Nangarhar, who holds a degree in computer science from India. "It is about launching a small-scale war. I can get killed, injured or abducted." Niazai is one of the 417 women candidates contesting seats across the country, despite deadly suicide attacks on election rallies and offices apparently aimed at forcing voters to boycott the vote scheduled for October 20. She says she wants to be a voice for uneducated women who are not represented in parliament and to defend girls' rights to education - Islamic State has blown up several girls' schools in her Nangarhar constituency. The growing involvement of women has been welcomed by the United Nations and other international bodies, which see the elections as a vital step in building trust in democratic processes. Campaigning is fraught with risks regardless of gender. Nine candidates, including one woman, have been killed in separate attacks. Another two have been abducted, and four others have been wounded by hardline Islamist militants, election officials said. Last week a blast at an election rally of a woman candidate in the northeastern province of Takhar killed 22 people and wounded 35. Nazifa Yousuf Bek, the female candidate, was standing about 10 metres away when the explosion occurred. "My supporters were waiting to listen to my speech but in a few seconds I was surrounded by their bodies," the 32-year-old teacher told Reuters. "I am shaken but I am also determined to continue the election campaign. This is my responsibility." For women, there are additional challenges, said Maria Bashir, Afghanistan's first female prosecutor from Herat province, who like other women candidates interviewed by Reuters had until recently never seriously contemplated entering politics. "In comparison with male candidates, women have more problems in the election race ... insecurity and harassment inhibit women's mobility and justify family restrictions," she said. Echoing other women candidates who spoke to Reuters, Bashir says she is standing for election after growing dismayed with the direction of the country, starting with the failure of the government to improve security or safeguard women's rights. Unable to hold open rallies because of security concerns, Bashir invites voters to attend political discussions at her home, and travels around the city at night to distribute publicity pamphlets and encourage voters to cast their ballot. Sabri Andar, the only female candidate with disabilities, is contesting a seat in Kabul. She said her main focus would be on ensuring rights legislation was not ignored. "Laws about equality exist on paper but they are yet to implemented," she said. "As a lawmaker I want to ensure we practice what is written in our constitution." Women's rights advocates say that, despite the heavy emphasis placed on promoting equality by international donors, age-old scourges such as child marriage or the murder of women by family members in so-called "honour killings" remain rife. Afghan girls still routinely receive less schooling than boys. Under the constitution written after the austere rule of the Taliban was ended by U.S.-backed Afghan forces in 2001, at least 68 of the 250 seats in the lower house of parliament are reserved for women. The quota means that Afghanistan fares better in a simple measure of female representation in the legislature than some Western nations - 28 per cent of seats in the lower house are currently held by women, 8 points higher than the U.S. Congress. But female candidates campaigning in their constituencies say Afghanistan's patriarchal culture means they face a battle to be heard even if they win. "We are trained to dress in a way that is acceptable to men, we talk in a way that does not anger men and, in politics, we are expected to appease them to stay relevant," said Masooda Jalal, a former minister of women's affairs. As well as facing sexual harassment, a regular problem that is rarely discussed openly because of strict social taboos, many women MPs complain they are not taken seriously by their male counterparts. Women in positions of authority said they were often perceived as puppets who can procure funds from international aid groups committed to promoting gender equality. Rights group activists in Kabul said more than three dozen bills drafted to strengthen the existing laws to safeguard the rights of millions of Afghan women were pending before the parliament but have not been allotted time for debate. Nasrullah Stanekzai, a political science professor at Kabul University and a former legal advisor to President Ashraf Ghani said ethnic, religious, political and financial loyalties of female candidate limit their role. "Females candidates win elections with the help of powerful male politicians who in turn expects them to work as stooges in the parliament, rarely allowing them to have an independent opinion," said Stanekzai.

Women candidates face 'small-scale war' in Afghan election

From a university student to a middle-aged housewife, Afghans planning to vote in the October 20 parliamentary election say they are willing to risk their lives for democracy.

Nearly nine million people have registered to vote, but far fewer are expected to turn out on polling day due to threats of violence and expectations for massive fraud.

Six people across the war-torn country explain why their vote matters.

Omaid, the artist

Out with the old and in with the new is Omaid Sharifi's hope for the legislative election.

The 32-year-old artist, who is voting for the first time, wants to see a new generation of politicians take their seats in the next parliament.

Sharifi, the co-founder of Kabul-based street art collective ArtLords, was inspired to vote by the large cohort of young, educated candidates among the more than 2,500 contesting the ballot.

"I am concerned (about security) but I think this is the price of democracy we have to pay," he said.

Fatima, the housewife

First-time voter Fatima Sadeqi wants to stop criminals, thieves and corrupt people from entering the next parliament.

The 55-year-old housewife and her eight family members plan to support the same candidate in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif.

"We are tired of poverty and insecurity," she said.

"I hope the new parliament is a better place, full of good people." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Shirin, the potter

Shirin Agha wants his 10 children to grow up in a peaceful Afghanistan -- and he is willing to die to help make that happen.

The 45-year-old potter in the eastern city of Jalalabad is a first-time voter and plans to back "a good Muslim and an honest person".

"I want the new parliament to bring fundamental changes to the economy, education and security so that our children can live in peace," Agha said.

"If my vote can bring these changes I will take any risk. I will either die or vote."

Zahra, the university student

A sense of "duty and responsibility" is pushing English literature student Zahra Faramarz to vote -- but she admits being "anxious" about security.

Faramarz's polling station is located in a heavily Shiite neighbourhood of Kabul where the Islamic State group has carried out devastating attacks in recent months.

But the 21-year-old said it was important to vote to ensure her community has a voice in the lower house.

"If we don't, someone else will select the candidates... that is not good for us," she said.

Ghulam, the public servant

After disappointing results in the previous two elections, Ghulam Farooq Adil hopes it will be third time lucky on October 20.

The 29-year-old public servant from the western city of Herat plans to vote for an "honest" candidate who can help bring peace to Afghanistan.

"I want the new parliament to come up with a solid plan to end the war," Adil said.

"I need to see changes, at least for the future of my son."&nbsp;

Abdul, the retiree

Abdul Karim believes voting is a religious obligation for Muslim men and women.

"They must vote," said the 85-year-old retiree in Kabul, who is voting for only the second time in his life.

But in return, the next parliament should "serve our nation, serve our land and provide" job opportunities for the poor, he said.

"We vote for Afghanistan and we expect our incoming MPs to make solid decisions for our nation's well-being."

From a university student to a middle-aged housewife, Afghans planning to vote in the October 20 parliamentary election say they are willing to risk their lives for democracy.

From a university student to a middle-aged housewife, Afghans planning to vote in the October 20 parliamentary election say they are willing to risk their lives for democracy. Nearly nine million people have registered to vote, but far fewer are expected to turn out on polling day due to threats of violence and expectations for massive fraud. Six people across the war-torn country explain why their vote matters. Omaid, the artist Out with the old and in with the new is Omaid Sharifi's hope for the legislative election. The 32-year-old artist, who is voting for the first time, wants to see a new generation of politicians take their seats in the next parliament. Sharifi, the co-founder of Kabul-based street art collective ArtLords, was inspired to vote by the large cohort of young, educated candidates among the more than 2,500 contesting the ballot. "I am concerned (about security) but I think this is the price of democracy we have to pay," he said. Fatima, the housewife First-time voter Fatima Sadeqi wants to stop criminals, thieves and corrupt people from entering the next parliament. The 55-year-old housewife and her eight family members plan to support the same candidate in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif. "We are tired of poverty and insecurity," she said. "I hope the new parliament is a better place, full of good people." Shirin, the potter Shirin Agha wants his 10 children to grow up in a peaceful Afghanistan -- and he is willing to die to help make that happen. The 45-year-old potter in the eastern city of Jalalabad is a first-time voter and plans to back "a good Muslim and an honest person". "I want the new parliament to bring fundamental changes to the economy, education and security so that our children can live in peace," Agha said. "If my vote can bring these changes I will take any risk. I will either die or vote." Zahra, the university student A sense of "duty and responsibility" is pushing English literature student Zahra Faramarz to vote -- but she admits being "anxious" about security. Faramarz's polling station is located in a heavily Shiite neighbourhood of Kabul where the Islamic State group has carried out devastating attacks in recent months. But the 21-year-old said it was important to vote to ensure her community has a voice in the lower house. "If we don't, someone else will select the candidates... that is not good for us," she said. Ghulam, the public servant After disappointing results in the previous two elections, Ghulam Farooq Adil hopes it will be third time lucky on October 20. The 29-year-old public servant from the western city of Herat plans to vote for an "honest" candidate who can help bring peace to Afghanistan. "I want the new parliament to come up with a solid plan to end the war," Adil said. "I need to see changes, at least for the future of my son." Abdul, the retiree Abdul Karim believes voting is a religious obligation for Muslim men and women. "They must vote," said the 85-year-old retiree in Kabul, who is voting for only the second time in his life. But in return, the next parliament should "serve our nation, serve our land and provide" job opportunities for the poor, he said. "We vote for Afghanistan and we expect our incoming MPs to make solid decisions for our nation's well-being."

'Price of democracy': Afghans risking their lives to vote

The laying down of barbed wires along Durand Line by Pakistan border guards led to a skirmish between the armed forces of Afghanistan and Pakistan on Sunday.

Security headquarters in Afghanistan's Kandahar province released a statement accusing Pakistan of intruding into their territory along the Durand Line.

Kandahar police spokesperson, Zia Durrani told Anadolu Agency that Pakistan closed the Spin Boldak-Chaman crossing between the two countries following the armed confrontation.

Established in 1893, the Durand Line is a 2,430 kilometer line that separates the two nations.

Pakistan started the laying down of barbed wires along the line in early 2017, even though Afghanistan opposed the project from the get-go, according to The Express Tribune.

The complete line is not officially recognised by Afghanistan as an international border. About a 150 kilometers of the line had already been laid down by the end of 2017.

Major General Asif Ghafoor, the incumbent Spokesperson of Pakistan Armed Forces, had previously told the Voice of America that they are targeting to finish the laying down of the fence by the end of 2018.

The clash between the two sides comes amidst Pakistan's renewed interest in restoring peace in Afghanistan, which was discussed during a recent meeting between Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Bajwa and UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London.

&nbsp;

The laying down of barbed wires along Durand Line by Pakistan border guards led to a skirmish between the armed forces of Afghanistan and Pakistan on Sunday. Security headquarters in Afghanistan's Kandahar province released a statement accusing Pakistan of intruding into their territory along the Durand Line.

The laying down of barbed wires along Durand Line by Pakistan border guards led to a skirmish between the armed forces of Afghanistan and Pakistan on Sunday. Security headquarters in Afghanistan's Kandahar province released a statement accusing Pakistan of intruding into their territory along the Durand Line. Kandahar police spokesperson, Zia Durrani told Anadolu Agency that Pakistan closed the Spin Boldak-Chaman crossing between the two countries following the armed confrontation. Established in 1893, the Durand Line is a 2,430 kilometer line that separates the two nations. Pakistan started the laying down of barbed wires along the line in early 2017, even though Afghanistan opposed the project from the get-go, according to The Express Tribune. The complete line is not officially recognised by Afghanistan as an international border. About a 150 kilometers of the line had already been laid down by the end of 2017. Major General Asif Ghafoor, the incumbent Spokesperson of Pakistan Armed Forces, had previously told the Voice of America that they are targeting to finish the laying down of the fence by the end of 2018. The clash between the two sides comes amidst Pakistan's renewed interest in restoring peace in Afghanistan, which was discussed during a recent meeting between Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Bajwa and UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London.

Skirmish between Afghan, Pakistan armed forces along Durand Line

India and China plan to cooperate more on Afghanistan in the coming days and months.&nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to WION, China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said: "Training of diplomats is just first step. I am sure in future dates, discussion going on how to upgrade and cooperate on other concrete projects. This is just beginning for China India to cooperate on Afghan issues. It's implementation of Wuhan spirit."

This came on a day when India started the training of Afghan diplomats as part of the outcome from Wuhan. India and China, after the informal summit in Wuhan between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, agreed on several things including joint projects in Afghanistan. The training of 10 Afghan diplomats which will take place for two weeks from October 15 to 25 is part of the informal summit that took place in Wuhan. In the second leg of the training, the Afghan diplomats will go to China to be trained by the foreign ministry in Bejing.

The Chinese ambassador also called for "China India plus" cooperation. He added that "China-India Plus cooperation should be extended from Afghanistan to other countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Iran and Myanmar. We can also join hands under the mechanisms of SAARC, BIMSTEC and BCIM to promote 
regional peace, stability and prosperity."&nbsp;

Chinese media reports have suggested that India and China are planning a rail link connecting Afghanistan and Uzbekistan.

Highlighting India and China's "common interests and similar stance" on Afghanistan, Ambassador Zhaohui said both of "us support an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace reconciliation process. Both of us uphold that Afghanistan should realise peace, stability and prosperity. Both of us are against terrorism."

Further focusing on connectivity, he said, "We are talking a lot about the regional connectivity initiatives, such as International North-South Transport Corridor, India-Afghanistan-Iran transit and trade arrangement, and China-Pakistan-Afghanistan cooperation. All of these have provided a solid foundation for the current and future cooperation between China and India in Afghanistan."

Other than joint cooperation on Afghanistan, a number of high-level visits were agreed on as part of the informal Wuhan summit.&nbsp;

At the end of this week, Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi will visit India. In December, Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will visit India and launch the first China-India High-Level People-to-People Exchanges Mechanism. The mechanism will be headed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Yi.&nbsp;

India and China plan to cooperate more on Afghanistan in the coming days and months. Speaking exclusively to WION, China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said: "Training of diplomats is just first step.

India and China plan to cooperate more on Afghanistan in the coming days and months. Speaking exclusively to WION, China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said: "Training of diplomats is just first step. I am sure in future dates, discussion going on how to upgrade and cooperate on other concrete projects. This is just beginning for China India to cooperate on Afghan issues. It's implementation of Wuhan spirit." This came on a day when India started the training of Afghan diplomats as part of the outcome from Wuhan. India and China, after the informal summit in Wuhan between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, agreed on several things including joint projects in Afghanistan. The training of 10 Afghan diplomats which will take place for two weeks from October 15 to 25 is part of the informal summit that took place in Wuhan. In the second leg of the training, the Afghan diplomats will go to China to be trained by the foreign ministry in Bejing. The Chinese ambassador also called for "China India plus" cooperation. He added that "China-India Plus cooperation should be extended from Afghanistan to other countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Iran and Myanmar. We can also join hands under the mechanisms of SAARC, BIMSTEC and BCIM to promote regional peace, stability and prosperity." Chinese media reports have suggested that India and China are planning a rail link connecting Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. Highlighting India and China's "common interests and similar stance" on Afghanistan, Ambassador Zhaohui said both of "us support an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace reconciliation process. Both of us uphold that Afghanistan should realise peace, stability and prosperity. Both of us are against terrorism." Further focusing on connectivity, he said, "We are talking a lot about the regional connectivity initiatives, such as International North-South Transport Corridor, India-Afghanistan-Iran transit and trade arrangement, and China-Pakistan-Afghanistan cooperation. All of these have provided a solid foundation for the current and future cooperation between China and India in Afghanistan." Other than joint cooperation on Afghanistan, a number of high-level visits were agreed on as part of the informal Wuhan summit. At the end of this week, Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi will visit India. In December, Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will visit India and launch the first China-India High-Level People-to-People Exchanges Mechanism. The mechanism will be headed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Yi.

India, China to cooperate more on Afghanistan: Chinese Ambassador

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London.

"Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation.

Being strong trade partners, India, time and again, voiced unequivocal support to the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to emerge as a peaceful nation by eradicating terrorism in the country.

During Afghanistan President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reiterated India's support to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace and reconciliation process that would enable the nation to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic country and emerge as economically vibrant.

Pakistan and Afghanistan relations, on the other hand, have been tumultuous, with Afghanistan alleging Pakistan army's aid to the Taliban in the deadly August 13 Ghazni siege, which left 100 dead and 150 others injured.General Bajwa had denied Afghanistan's claims after President Ghani questioned the army chief as to why Taliban militants, who were accused of carrying out the attacks, were being treated in Pakistan's hospitals.

This came in the wake of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government's vision to establish better bilateral relations with its neighbours, including Afghanistan.

Efforts have been made by both Pakistan and Afghanistan to work together to counter terrorism in the region previously, with the inaugural session of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) being held on July 22 this year.

In-depth discussions regarding methods of counter-terrorism were discussed in the summit amongst other security issues, according to Geo TV.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also visited Kabul on September 15 and met the Afghan President to discuss peace and stability in the region by jointly working together to combat terrorism.India reiterated its support for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council Open Debate by launching a veiled attack on Pakistan by saying that terror offences in Afghanistan are perpetrated by those harboured in safe havens in the country's 'neighbourhood'.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. "Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. "Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation. Being strong trade partners, India, time and again, voiced unequivocal support to the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to emerge as a peaceful nation by eradicating terrorism in the country. During Afghanistan President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reiterated India's support to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace and reconciliation process that would enable the nation to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic country and emerge as economically vibrant. Pakistan and Afghanistan relations, on the other hand, have been tumultuous, with Afghanistan alleging Pakistan army's aid to the Taliban in the deadly August 13 Ghazni siege, which left 100 dead and 150 others injured.General Bajwa had denied Afghanistan's claims after President Ghani questioned the army chief as to why Taliban militants, who were accused of carrying out the attacks, were being treated in Pakistan's hospitals. This came in the wake of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government's vision to establish better bilateral relations with its neighbours, including Afghanistan. Efforts have been made by both Pakistan and Afghanistan to work together to counter terrorism in the region previously, with the inaugural session of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) being held on July 22 this year. In-depth discussions regarding methods of counter-terrorism were discussed in the summit amongst other security issues, according to Geo TV. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also visited Kabul on September 15 and met the Afghan President to discuss peace and stability in the region by jointly working together to combat terrorism.India reiterated its support for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council Open Debate by launching a veiled attack on Pakistan by saying that terror offences in Afghanistan are perpetrated by those harboured in safe havens in the country's 'neighbourhood'.

In London, General Bajwa discusses India's role in Pak-Afghan tensions

China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting the political reconciliation in Afghanistan and help with the country's peaceful reconstruction, said Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday.

Li made the remarks while meeting with Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah on the sidelines of the 17th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council of Heads of Government in Tajik capital Dushanbe.

Calling Afghanistan a traditional friend and good neighbour, Li said China will continue with its friendly policy toward Afghanistan and hopes to see the security situation in Afghanistan keep improving so as to provide a peaceful and stable environment for development.

Li said China will continue to support the Afghan government in safeguarding national security and stability and promoting the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned political reconciliation and will continue to play a constructive role for this end.

China is willing to help Afghanistan boost reconstruction and improve its people's livelihood by aligning the two countries' development strategies and deepening bilateral practical cooperation, said the Chinese premier.

China also encourages more capable Chinese enterprises to participate in Afghanistan's infrastructure construction so as to boost the country's connectivity with other countries in the region, said Li.

He added that China will enhance anti-terror cooperation and personnel training with Afghanistan, and promote trilateral cooperation among China, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Noting that China has always been a good friend of Afghanistan, Abdullah expressed his gratitude to China for its long-term assistance to his country.

Afghanistan is willing to enhance cooperation with China in economy and trade, electricity generation, agricultural produce and counter-terrorism, and to actively participate in China-Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation, said Abdullah.

China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting the political reconciliation in Afghanistan and help with the country's peaceful reconstruction, said Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday.

China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting the political reconciliation in Afghanistan and help with the country's peaceful reconstruction, said Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday. Li made the remarks while meeting with Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah on the sidelines of the 17th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council of Heads of Government in Tajik capital Dushanbe. Calling Afghanistan a traditional friend and good neighbour, Li said China will continue with its friendly policy toward Afghanistan and hopes to see the security situation in Afghanistan keep improving so as to provide a peaceful and stable environment for development. Li said China will continue to support the Afghan government in safeguarding national security and stability and promoting the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned political reconciliation and will continue to play a constructive role for this end. China is willing to help Afghanistan boost reconstruction and improve its people's livelihood by aligning the two countries' development strategies and deepening bilateral practical cooperation, said the Chinese premier. China also encourages more capable Chinese enterprises to participate in Afghanistan's infrastructure construction so as to boost the country's connectivity with other countries in the region, said Li. He added that China will enhance anti-terror cooperation and personnel training with Afghanistan, and promote trilateral cooperation among China, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Noting that China has always been a good friend of Afghanistan, Abdullah expressed his gratitude to China for its long-term assistance to his country. Afghanistan is willing to enhance cooperation with China in economy and trade, electricity generation, agricultural produce and counter-terrorism, and to actively participate in China-Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation, said Abdullah.

China to continue to help with Afghan reconciliation, reconstruction: Premier Li Keqiang

A motorcycle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 14 people, officials said, in the latest attack on a political rally.

Violence related to the parliamentary vote has killed or wounded hundreds of people in recent months and more militant attacks are expected ahead of Afghanistan's October 20 poll.

More than 30 people were wounded in the explosion in the northeastern province of Takhar where candidate Nazifa Yousefibek had been campaigning, provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Jawad Hejri told AFP.

Interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said most of the 14 killed were civilians.&nbsp;

"The explosives were placed in a motorcycle and detonated behind a tent where Nazifa Yousefibek was campaigning," Rahimi said.&nbsp;

Yousefibek was not hurt in the blast. No group has claimed responsibility.&nbsp;

Ambulances have been sent to the remote district of Rustaq where the attack happened, but officials also are seeking to airlift the wounded to hospitals, Hejri said.&nbsp;

Khan Jan, who told AFP he saw the explosion, said there had been a powerful blast and "a lot of people" had been killed.

More than 2,500 candidates are contesting the long-delayed legislative elections.&nbsp;

At least nine candidates have died so far, most of them in targeted killings, according to the Independent Election Commission.&nbsp;

A candidate was among eight people killed in a suicide attack in the southern province of Helmand -- a Taliban stronghold -- on October 9. No group has claimed responsibility.&nbsp;

That incident came a day after the Taliban warned candidates to pull out of the "bogus" election, describing it as a "malicious American conspiracy".

The group vowed to attack the ballot and those involved in it.

An attack on a rally in the eastern province of Nangarhar on October 2 killed 13 people and wounded more than 40. The Islamic State group claimed the attack, which the candidate survived.

Violence had been expected to escalate ahead of the poll.

Preparations for the ballot, which is a test run for next year's presidential vote, have been in turmoil for months and there has been debate about whether the vote should go ahead.

Bureaucratic inefficiency, allegations of industrial-scale fraud and an eleventh-hour pledge for biometric verification of voters threaten to derail the process, which is three years late.

Some 54,000 members of Afghanistan's beleaguered security forces will be responsible for protecting more than 5,000 polling centres on election day.

But there are concerns over how they will manage as the Taliban and the Islamic State group step up attacks across the country.

A motorcycle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 14 people, officials said, in the latest attack on a political rally.

A motorcycle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 14 people, officials said, in the latest attack on a political rally. Violence related to the parliamentary vote has killed or wounded hundreds of people in recent months and more militant attacks are expected ahead of Afghanistan's October 20 poll. More than 30 people were wounded in the explosion in the northeastern province of Takhar where candidate Nazifa Yousefibek had been campaigning, provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Jawad Hejri told AFP. Interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said most of the 14 killed were civilians. "The explosives were placed in a motorcycle and detonated behind a tent where Nazifa Yousefibek was campaigning," Rahimi said. Yousefibek was not hurt in the blast. No group has claimed responsibility. Ambulances have been sent to the remote district of Rustaq where the attack happened, but officials also are seeking to airlift the wounded to hospitals, Hejri said. Khan Jan, who told AFP he saw the explosion, said there had been a powerful blast and "a lot of people" had been killed. More than 2,500 candidates are contesting the long-delayed legislative elections. At least nine candidates have died so far, most of them in targeted killings, according to the Independent Election Commission. A candidate was among eight people killed in a suicide attack in the southern province of Helmand -- a Taliban stronghold -- on October 9. No group has claimed responsibility. That incident came a day after the Taliban warned candidates to pull out of the "bogus" election, describing it as a "malicious American conspiracy". The group vowed to attack the ballot and those involved in it. An attack on a rally in the eastern province of Nangarhar on October 2 killed 13 people and wounded more than 40. The Islamic State group claimed the attack, which the candidate survived. Violence had been expected to escalate ahead of the poll. Preparations for the ballot, which is a test run for next year's presidential vote, have been in turmoil for months and there has been debate about whether the vote should go ahead. Bureaucratic inefficiency, allegations of industrial-scale fraud and an eleventh-hour pledge for biometric verification of voters threaten to derail the process, which is three years late. Some 54,000 members of Afghanistan's beleaguered security forces will be responsible for protecting more than 5,000 polling centres on election day. But there are concerns over how they will manage as the Taliban and the Islamic State group step up attacks across the country.

At least 14 killed in bomb attack on Afghan election rally

The Taliban have reinstated a security guarantee in Afghanistan for the International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC), two months after withdrawing safe passage for the neutral humanitarian agency, the militant group and an ICRC official said on Friday.

A meeting in the Taliban's Qatar-based political office between its leaders and agency officials ended with the renewal of a pact allowing the agency to continue to provide, and expand, medical aid to all parties harmed by warfare.

"The security agreement...is once again reinstated and calls on all mujahideen to grant access...and provide security for the personnel and equipment of this organization," the Taliban said in a statement, referring to its members.

The Taliban leadership in Doha discussed the humanitarian situation and security concerns before renewing the pledge, said Andrea Catta Preta, the ICRC's spokeswoman in the Afghan capital.

"We told the Taliban leaders about our support to all prisoners in Afghanistan jails, we explained our medical programs," she added. "Finally, we reached an understanding."

In August, the Taliban had accused the Red Cross of failing to provide adequate medical aid to prisoners on a hunger strike in Kabul's Pul-e Charkhi prison and withdrew the security cover.

The decision forced the ICRC to suspend several emergency programs in Afghanistan, where it has had a presence for three decades and about 1,000 staff. Last year it scaled back operations after attacks killed seven of its staff.

The ICRC treats all parties harmed by warfare and does not take sides. It operates in Taliban-controlled areas with guarantees of safety and helps to repatriate bodies from both sides after fighting between the militants and the Afghan army.

The Taliban have reinstated a security guarantee in Afghanistan for the International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC), two months after withdrawing safe passage for the neutral humanitarian agency, the militant group and an ICRC official said on Friday.

The Taliban have reinstated a security guarantee in Afghanistan for the International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC), two months after withdrawing safe passage for the neutral humanitarian agency, the militant group and an ICRC official said on Friday. A meeting in the Taliban's Qatar-based political office between its leaders and agency officials ended with the renewal of a pact allowing the agency to continue to provide, and expand, medical aid to all parties harmed by warfare. "The security agreement...is once again reinstated and calls on all mujahideen to grant access...and provide security for the personnel and equipment of this organization," the Taliban said in a statement, referring to its members. The Taliban leadership in Doha discussed the humanitarian situation and security concerns before renewing the pledge, said Andrea Catta Preta, the ICRC's spokeswoman in the Afghan capital. "We told the Taliban leaders about our support to all prisoners in Afghanistan jails, we explained our medical programs," she added. "Finally, we reached an understanding." In August, the Taliban had accused the Red Cross of failing to provide adequate medical aid to prisoners on a hunger strike in Kabul's Pul-e Charkhi prison and withdrew the security cover. The decision forced the ICRC to suspend several emergency programs in Afghanistan, where it has had a presence for three decades and about 1,000 staff. Last year it scaled back operations after attacks killed seven of its staff. The ICRC treats all parties harmed by warfare and does not take sides. It operates in Taliban-controlled areas with guarantees of safety and helps to repatriate bodies from both sides after fighting between the militants and the Afghan army.

Taliban restore Red Cross security guarantee in Afghanistan

The US envoy for Afghanistan peace efforts met with Taliban representatives in Qatar on Friday as President Donald Trump's administration pushed to find a way to end the 17-year-old Afghan war, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The Journal, citing a person familiar with the gathering, said US Special&nbsp;Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad met with Taliban officials in Doha, the second time in four months that American officials have held face-to-face talks with Taliban representatives.

The Journal said it was not clear what the two sides discussed. Khalilzad, who is trying to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table, is currently on his first trip as the special representative. His 11-day trip was to take him to Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

The State Department declined to say whether the meeting with Taliban officials in Doha took place.

"We can't confirm specific meetings or the content of diplomatic conversations," said a State Department spokesperson, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Special Representative Khalilzad held a number of meetings with a wide range of stakeholders as part of his trip to explore how best to reach a negotiated settlement to the conflict in Afghanistan," the spokesperson added.

Alice Wells, the State Department deputy assistant secretary for South and Central Asia, met Taliban officials in Doha in July for what were described as talks about talks. A Taliban official who was part of the four-person delegation to that meeting said it produced "very positive signals."

A US-led coalition forced the Taliban from power in 2001 in the aftermath of the September 11 al Qaeda attacks on Washington and New York.&nbsp;

Taliban officials want the withdrawal of American forces and a government in Kabul that reflects the group`s view of Islam.

The US envoy for Afghanistan peace efforts met with Taliban representatives in Qatar on Friday as President Donald Trump's administration pushed to find a way to end the 17-year-old Afghan war, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The US envoy for Afghanistan peace efforts met with Taliban representatives in Qatar on Friday as President Donald Trump's administration pushed to find a way to end the 17-year-old Afghan war, the Wall Street Journal reported. The Journal, citing a person familiar with the gathering, said US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad met with Taliban officials in Doha, the second time in four months that American officials have held face-to-face talks with Taliban representatives. The Journal said it was not clear what the two sides discussed. Khalilzad, who is trying to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table, is currently on his first trip as the special representative. His 11-day trip was to take him to Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The State Department declined to say whether the meeting with Taliban officials in Doha took place. "We can't confirm specific meetings or the content of diplomatic conversations," said a State Department spokesperson, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Special Representative Khalilzad held a number of meetings with a wide range of stakeholders as part of his trip to explore how best to reach a negotiated settlement to the conflict in Afghanistan," the spokesperson added. Alice Wells, the State Department deputy assistant secretary for South and Central Asia, met Taliban officials in Doha in July for what were described as talks about talks. A Taliban official who was part of the four-person delegation to that meeting said it produced "very positive signals." A US-led coalition forced the Taliban from power in 2001 in the aftermath of the September 11 al Qaeda attacks on Washington and New York. Taliban officials want the withdrawal of American forces and a government in Kabul that reflects the group`s view of Islam.

US envoy for Afghan peace meets Taliban officials in Qatar: Report

Taliban leaders and the newly-appointed US special envoy for peace efforts in Afghanistan will continue to hold meetings to discuss ways to end the ongoing war, the Taliban said in a statement on Saturday.

Zalmay Khalilzad, an Afghan-born US diplomat, met with Taliban leaders in Qatar on Friday in an effort to find a way to end the 17-year-old war in Afghanistan.

"Both sides spoke (about) an end to the occupation and peaceful solution to the Afghan issue ... Both sides agreed to continue meeting in the future," Zabiullah Mujahid, the Taliban`s spokesman, said in a statement.&nbsp;

Taliban leaders and the newly-appointed US special envoy for peace efforts in Afghanistan will continue to hold meetings to discuss ways to end the ongoing war, the Taliban said in a statement on Saturday.

Taliban leaders and the newly-appointed US special envoy for peace efforts in Afghanistan will continue to hold meetings to discuss ways to end the ongoing war, the Taliban said in a statement on Saturday. Zalmay Khalilzad, an Afghan-born US diplomat, met with Taliban leaders in Qatar on Friday in an effort to find a way to end the 17-year-old war in Afghanistan. "Both sides spoke (about) an end to the occupation and peaceful solution to the Afghan issue ... Both sides agreed to continue meeting in the future," Zabiullah Mujahid, the Taliban`s spokesman, said in a statement.

Taliban says will continue talks with US special envoy for peace efforts in Afghanistan

A motorcyle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 12 people, officials said, in the latest violence to strike a political gathering.

Another 32 people were wounded in the explosion in the northeastern province of Takhar where parliamentary candidate Nazifa Yousefibek had been campaigning, provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Jawad Hejri told AFP.

Provincial police spokesman Khalil Assir put the death toll slightly higher at 13. Yousefibek was not hurt in the blast.&nbsp;

"The bomb had been placed on a motorcycle and detonated among the supporters of a female candidate in Rustaq district," Assir told AFP.

At least nine election candidates have been killed in the lead-up to Afghanistan's long-delayed parliamentary elections on October 20.

A motorcyle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 12 people, officials said, in the latest violence to strike a political gathering.

A motorcyle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 12 people, officials said, in the latest violence to strike a political gathering. Another 32 people were wounded in the explosion in the northeastern province of Takhar where parliamentary candidate Nazifa Yousefibek had been campaigning, provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Jawad Hejri told AFP. Provincial police spokesman Khalil Assir put the death toll slightly higher at 13. Yousefibek was not hurt in the blast. "The bomb had been placed on a motorcycle and detonated among the supporters of a female candidate in Rustaq district," Assir told AFP. At least nine election candidates have been killed in the lead-up to Afghanistan's long-delayed parliamentary elections on October 20.

At least 12 killed in bomb attack on Afghan election rally: Officials

Afghan officials say at least five civilians were killed when in a bomb exploded during a wedding ceremony in eastern Logar province.

Shah Poor Ahmadzai, the provincial police chief's spokesman, says seven others were wounded in the attack late Friday, which took place in Mohammad Agha district.

Mohammad Naser Ghairat, a provincial council member in Logar, confirmed the death toll.&nbsp;

He said the bomb was planted near the house where the wedding was taken place and targeted the participants of the wedding.

Ahmadzai said initial report show both the groom and bride were not hurt.&nbsp;An investigation was begun to find out more and the death toll could rise, he added.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Afghan officials say at least five civilians were killed when in a bomb exploded during a wedding ceremony in eastern Logar province. Shah Poor Ahmadzai, the provincial police chief's spokesman, says seven others were wounded in the attack late Friday, which took place in Mohammad Agha district.

Afghan officials say at least five civilians were killed when in a bomb exploded during a wedding ceremony in eastern Logar province. Shah Poor Ahmadzai, the provincial police chief's spokesman, says seven others were wounded in the attack late Friday, which took place in Mohammad Agha district. Mohammad Naser Ghairat, a provincial council member in Logar, confirmed the death toll. He said the bomb was planted near the house where the wedding was taken place and targeted the participants of the wedding. Ahmadzai said initial report show both the groom and bride were not hurt. An investigation was begun to find out more and the death toll could rise, he added. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Bomb blast kills five of wedding party in eastern Afghanistan

More than 800 faces, 15 pages, one vote. Kabul voters will wrestle with newspaper-sized ballot papers on October 20, racing to find their candidate in a city under constant threat from militant attacks.

The huge number of parliamentary hopefuls vying to represent Kabul province, where around one-fifth of Afghanistan's population lives, is the highest of anywhere in the country.&nbsp;

The candidates account for almost a third of the more than 2,500 people contesting long-delayed elections for Afghanistan's lower house, or Wolesi Jirga.

Each voter can only choose one candidate, but finding them on Kabul's giant ballot paper, which is roughly the size of a tabloid newspaper, could be time-consuming.

It is hardly ideal when the risk of the Taliban or the Islamic State group attacking polling centres is high.

Militants have vowed to target the ballot and those organising it, calling the polls a "malicious American conspiracy".

Lions or spectacles &nbsp; &nbsp;

To make the process easier and faster for voters, candidates are advertising their numerical position and ballot page number -- along with their often digitally enhanced photos -- on campaign posters on lamp posts, billboards and blast walls around the province.

The key numbers appear alongside symbols such as palm trees, lions or spectacles, used by each candidate to enable illiterate voters to identify them.&nbsp;

With lofty promises of pushing for "change", "justice" and even making "streets from gold, schools from diamonds and universities from emeralds", candidates are locked in a fierce battle for the 33 seats allocated to Kabul.

More than 1.6 million votes are up for grabs -- more than any other province -- according to Independent Election Commission (IEC) voter registration data.

But many suspect that a significant number of those may be fake, created by fraudsters using counterfeit identification documents that could be used to stuff ballot boxes.

Biometric verification machines designed to prevent people from voting more than once are scheduled to be used -- but there are fears these may not arrive at polling centres in time, or fail to work.&nbsp;

An eleventh-hour decision to use the devices for the first time in an Afghan election has left beleaguered organisers scrambling to import and distribute them to more than 5,000 polling centres ahead of the vote.

While Afghan law does not require the use of biometric verification, votes cast without it will not be counted, IEC spokesman Sayed Hafizullah Hashimi said.

Despite the unusual size of Kabul's ballot paper -- and the potential for hundreds of thousands of votes to be cast --&nbsp;Hashimi said regular boxes would be used to collect ballots on election day.

"We have around six million people (in Kabul) -- it is very populated," Hashimi told AFP.

"If the boxes fill up, we have reserve boxes." &nbsp;&nbsp;

More than 800 faces, 15 pages, one vote. Kabul voters will wrestle with newspaper-sized ballot papers on October 20, racing to find their candidate in a city under constant threat from militant attacks.

More than 800 faces, 15 pages, one vote. Kabul voters will wrestle with newspaper-sized ballot papers on October 20, racing to find their candidate in a city under constant threat from militant attacks. The huge number of parliamentary hopefuls vying to represent Kabul province, where around one-fifth of Afghanistan's population lives, is the highest of anywhere in the country. The candidates account for almost a third of the more than 2,500 people contesting long-delayed elections for Afghanistan's lower house, or Wolesi Jirga. Each voter can only choose one candidate, but finding them on Kabul's giant ballot paper, which is roughly the size of a tabloid newspaper, could be time-consuming. It is hardly ideal when the risk of the Taliban or the Islamic State group attacking polling centres is high. Militants have vowed to target the ballot and those organising it, calling the polls a "malicious American conspiracy". Lions or spectacles To make the process easier and faster for voters, candidates are advertising their numerical position and ballot page number -- along with their often digitally enhanced photos -- on campaign posters on lamp posts, billboards and blast walls around the province. The key numbers appear alongside symbols such as palm trees, lions or spectacles, used by each candidate to enable illiterate voters to identify them. With lofty promises of pushing for "change", "justice" and even making "streets from gold, schools from diamonds and universities from emeralds", candidates are locked in a fierce battle for the 33 seats allocated to Kabul. More than 1.6 million votes are up for grabs -- more than any other province -- according to Independent Election Commission (IEC) voter registration data. But many suspect that a significant number of those may be fake, created by fraudsters using counterfeit identification documents that could be used to stuff ballot boxes. Biometric verification machines designed to prevent people from voting more than once are scheduled to be used -- but there are fears these may not arrive at polling centres in time, or fail to work. An eleventh-hour decision to use the devices for the first time in an Afghan election has left beleaguered organisers scrambling to import and distribute them to more than 5,000 polling centres ahead of the vote. While Afghan law does not require the use of biometric verification, votes cast without it will not be counted, IEC spokesman Sayed Hafizullah Hashimi said. Despite the unusual size of Kabul's ballot paper -- and the potential for hundreds of thousands of votes to be cast -- Hashimi said regular boxes would be used to collect ballots on election day. "We have around six million people (in Kabul) -- it is very populated," Hashimi told AFP. "If the boxes fill up, we have reserve boxes."

Afghanistan: Kabul voters wrestle with newspaper-sized ballot paper

Two Afghan military officials were jailed for 20 years after a two-year trial for sharing state secrets with Pakistan, a prosecutor said on Wednesday.

The sentence highlights a long-standing belief between Afghanistan and neighbouring Pakistan that the other country does not adequately prevent cross-border militant attacks.

Shah Mohammad and Nazirullah were arrested in 2016 after travelling to Pakistan to hand over information to Pakistan`s Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) agency. They pleaded not guilty but eventually "confessed to their crime" before the military court in the eastern city of Jalalabad, officials said.

"Each of them has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by the primary court," said Najiburrahman Nadim, a military prosecutor.

Nadim said the accused had shared secret information about attacks and bomb blasts.

Afghanistan’s Western-backed government has long accused Pakistan of harbouring Afghan Taliban insurgents, a charge that Islamabad denies.

Islamabad, in turn, accuses Afghanistan of not doing enough to eradicate Pakistani Taliban militants, many of whom are based in Afghanistan and mostly carry out attacks inside Pakistan.

A defence lawyer representing the two army officials rejected the court`s verdict, which was delivered on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"My clients were beaten during the investigations and they were forced to confess. We don`t accept the decision and we will appeal," said Toryalai Muqanen.&nbsp;

Two Afghan military officials were jailed for 20 years after a two-year trial for sharing state secrets with Pakistan, a prosecutor said on Wednesday. The sentence highlights a long-standing belief between Afghanistan and neighbouring Pakistan that the other country does not adequately prevent cross-border militant attacks.

Two Afghan military officials were jailed for 20 years after a two-year trial for sharing state secrets with Pakistan, a prosecutor said on Wednesday. The sentence highlights a long-standing belief between Afghanistan and neighbouring Pakistan that the other country does not adequately prevent cross-border militant attacks. Shah Mohammad and Nazirullah were arrested in 2016 after travelling to Pakistan to hand over information to Pakistan`s Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) agency. They pleaded not guilty but eventually "confessed to their crime" before the military court in the eastern city of Jalalabad, officials said. "Each of them has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by the primary court," said Najiburrahman Nadim, a military prosecutor. Nadim said the accused had shared secret information about attacks and bomb blasts. Afghanistan’s Western-backed government has long accused Pakistan of harbouring Afghan Taliban insurgents, a charge that Islamabad denies. Islamabad, in turn, accuses Afghanistan of not doing enough to eradicate Pakistani Taliban militants, many of whom are based in Afghanistan and mostly carry out attacks inside Pakistan. A defence lawyer representing the two army officials rejected the court`s verdict, which was delivered on Tuesday. "My clients were beaten during the investigations and they were forced to confess. We don`t accept the decision and we will appeal," said Toryalai Muqanen.

Afghan officials get 20 years for handing secrets to Pakistan

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Virgin Galatic owner and British entrepreneur Richard Branson said he expects his rocket company to launch a space flight "within weeks, not months".

"We will be in space with people not too long after that," he added.

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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/suicide-bomber-kills-eight-at-afghan-election-rally-official-170465">Suicide bomber kills eight at Afghan election rally, including candidate</a>

A suicide bomber killed eight people in Afghanistan's southern province of Helmand on Tuesday, including a candidate in upcoming parliamentary elections, the latest in a series of deadly attacks targeting the vote, officials said.

IMF cuts China's growth rate on 'negative effect of tariff actions' As the Trump administration turns the heat on China in the trade war, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut China's growth citing "negative effect of recent tariff actions".

IMF cuts China's growth rate on 'negative effect of tariff actions' As the Trump administration turns the heat on China in the trade war, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut China's growth citing "negative effect of recent tariff actions". US seeks thorough probe into disappearance of Saudi Journalist Khashoggi The US has sought a thorough and transparent investigation into the disappearance of a prominent Saudi journalist after President Donald Trump expressed concern over the scribe's whereabouts. Virgin Galatic space flight within weeks, not months: Richard Branson Virgin Galatic owner and British entrepreneur Richard Branson said he expects his rocket company to launch a space flight "within weeks, not months". "We will be in space with people not too long after that," he added. Alok Nath responds to rape allegations, says 'It was me who made her what she is' Actor Alok Nath, who has been accused of raping senior TV writer-director Vinta Nanda, responded to the allegations on Tuesday with an ambiguous answer. Suicide bomber kills eight at Afghan election rally, including candidate A suicide bomber killed eight people in Afghanistan's southern province of Helmand on Tuesday, including a candidate in upcoming parliamentary elections, the latest in a series of deadly attacks targeting the vote, officials said.

A suicide bomber killed eight people in Afghanistan's southern province of Helmand on Tuesday, including a candidate in upcoming parliamentary elections, the latest in a series of deadly attacks targeting the vote, officials said.

The election candidate, Saleh Mohammad Achekzai, was killed in the blast at an election rally in Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand, Omar Zwak, the provincial governor's spokesman confirmed. At least 11 people were wounded.

No group has claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack in the province bordering Pakistan that has seen some of the fiercest fighting of the Taliban insurgency.

Taliban militants have ramped up attacks in strategic provinces ahead of the October 20 election, and ordered Afghans on Monday to boycott voting, while demanding a complete withdrawal of foreign forces as the only way to end the 17-year-old war.

Hundreds of people have been killed or hurt in violence linked to the election, with two major attacks in the capital, Kabul, in April and in Khost province in May, but security officials say attacks could pick up as polling day nears.

Violence has surged in the run-up to the vote, which militants have vowed to disrupt. At least 13 people were killed and more than 30 injured in a suicide attack at an election rally in the eastern province of Nangarhar this month.

Almost 9 million voters and 2,500 candidates competing for places in the 249-seat lower house have been registered and campaigning officially began late last month.

In addition, one seat is reserved for the Sikh community, which was targeted by a suicide bombing in July.

A spike in militant violence has forced candidates to hold closed-door rallies and avoid mass gatherings.

"An attack on the elections is an attack on the Afghan people," John Bass, the US ambassador to Afghanistan, said on social network Twitter.

A suicide bomber killed eight people in Afghanistan's southern province of Helmand on Tuesday, including a candidate in upcoming parliamentary elections, the latest in a series of deadly attacks targeting the vote, officials said.

A suicide bomber killed eight people in Afghanistan's southern province of Helmand on Tuesday, including a candidate in upcoming parliamentary elections, the latest in a series of deadly attacks targeting the vote, officials said. The election candidate, Saleh Mohammad Achekzai, was killed in the blast at an election rally in Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand, Omar Zwak, the provincial governor's spokesman confirmed. At least 11 people were wounded. No group has claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack in the province bordering Pakistan that has seen some of the fiercest fighting of the Taliban insurgency. Taliban militants have ramped up attacks in strategic provinces ahead of the October 20 election, and ordered Afghans on Monday to boycott voting, while demanding a complete withdrawal of foreign forces as the only way to end the 17-year-old war. Hundreds of people have been killed or hurt in violence linked to the election, with two major attacks in the capital, Kabul, in April and in Khost province in May, but security officials say attacks could pick up as polling day nears. Violence has surged in the run-up to the vote, which militants have vowed to disrupt. At least 13 people were killed and more than 30 injured in a suicide attack at an election rally in the eastern province of Nangarhar this month. Almost 9 million voters and 2,500 candidates competing for places in the 249-seat lower house have been registered and campaigning officially began late last month. In addition, one seat is reserved for the Sikh community, which was targeted by a suicide bombing in July. A spike in militant violence has forced candidates to hold closed-door rallies and avoid mass gatherings. "An attack on the elections is an attack on the Afghan people," John Bass, the US ambassador to Afghanistan, said on social network Twitter.

Suicide bomber kills eight at Afghan election rally, including candidate

Afghan Taliban recently mounted an attack on a number of security check posts in the Jawzjan province, resulting in the death of at least 15 security personnel.

The attack, which took place in Qosh Tepa district of the northern Afghanistan province on Sunday night, also resulted in a further 26 security force personnel being injured, TOLO News cited sources as saying.

Authorities have issued warnings that unless air support is provided to aid the forces, the district will be claimed by the Taliban militants.

"Clashes are still ongoing in the district," officials were also quoted by TOLO News as saying.

However, a security policeman, Kamaluddin Yawar stated that "four security forces were killed in the attack and four others were wounded."

"At least 30 Taliban were killed and 19 others including their shadow district governor were wounded in the attack. Two security check posts were also fallen to the Taliban," Yawar added.

The Taliban have also confirmed the attack.

Afghan Taliban recently mounted an attack on a number of security check posts in the Jawzjan province, resulting in the death of at least 15 security personnel. The attack, which took place in Qosh Tepa district of the northern Afghanistan province on Sunday night, also resulted in a further 26 security force personnel being injured, TOLO News cited sources as saying.

Afghan Taliban recently mounted an attack on a number of security check posts in the Jawzjan province, resulting in the death of at least 15 security personnel. The attack, which took place in Qosh Tepa district of the northern Afghanistan province on Sunday night, also resulted in a further 26 security force personnel being injured, TOLO News cited sources as saying. Authorities have issued warnings that unless air support is provided to aid the forces, the district will be claimed by the Taliban militants. "Clashes are still ongoing in the district," officials were also quoted by TOLO News as saying. However, a security policeman, Kamaluddin Yawar stated that "four security forces were killed in the attack and four others were wounded." "At least 30 Taliban were killed and 19 others including their shadow district governor were wounded in the attack. Two security check posts were also fallen to the Taliban," Yawar added. The Taliban have also confirmed the attack.

Afghanistan: At least 15 security personnel die in Taliban attacks

The Taliban on Monday directed Afghans to boycott upcoming parliamentary elections and demanded a complete withdrawal of foreign forces as the only solution to end the 17-year-old war as they ramped up attacks in strategic provinces.

The statement from the hardline Islamic militant group coincided with the visit of top US&nbsp;envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who has been appointed to lead peace efforts with the Taliban.

Khalilzad met President Ashraf Ghani in Kabul to strategise ways to hold Afghan-led peace talks with the Taliban, whose 1996-2001 rule was ended by US-led troops.

"Peace is a holy process, and the US&nbsp;government and people are united with the Afghan government and people in this process," Khalilzad was quoted by Ghani's office in a statement as saying.

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born former US&nbsp;ambassador to Afghanistan and Iraq, joined the US&nbsp;State Department team in September.

He is scheduled to visit Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar this week as he seeks to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table.

But the Taliban, who are fighting to expel foreign forces, topple the government and restore their version of hardline Islamic law, have repeatedly rejected offers to hold peace talks or support the polls.

The Oct. 20 vote, seen by international partners as a dry run for presidential elections next year, has been hampered by chaotic preparations, allegations of fraud and ever-present fears of militant violence.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s main spokesman, said the United States was using the elections for the sole purpose of legitimising their presence and authority.

"People are given a deceptive feeling of having free right casting their votes for the malicious purpose of minimising their resentment against the foreign occupation," he said.

With less than two weeks to go before the long-delayed elections, the Taliban and Islamic State have ramped up attacks across the country.

The fighting has underlined the struggle security forces face as the insurgents have steadily extended their control over the countryside even though they have been unable to take and hold a major city.

"The real solution of the ongoing Afghan crisis lies in the complete withdrawal of all foreign occupying forces and the restoration of a pure Islamic sovereignty," said Mujahid.

Western diplomats have said the fighting raises questions about the viability of the US&nbsp;strategy to end the war, which for the past year has focused on forcing the militants, largely with more air strikes, to the negotiating table.

The Taliban on Monday directed Afghans to boycott upcoming parliamentary elections and demanded a complete withdrawal of foreign forces as the only solution to end the 17-year-old war as they ramped up attacks in strategic provinces.

The Taliban on Monday directed Afghans to boycott upcoming parliamentary elections and demanded a complete withdrawal of foreign forces as the only solution to end the 17-year-old war as they ramped up attacks in strategic provinces. The statement from the hardline Islamic militant group coincided with the visit of top US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who has been appointed to lead peace efforts with the Taliban. Khalilzad met President Ashraf Ghani in Kabul to strategise ways to hold Afghan-led peace talks with the Taliban, whose 1996-2001 rule was ended by US-led troops. "Peace is a holy process, and the US government and people are united with the Afghan government and people in this process," Khalilzad was quoted by Ghani's office in a statement as saying. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born former US ambassador to Afghanistan and Iraq, joined the US State Department team in September. He is scheduled to visit Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar this week as he seeks to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table. But the Taliban, who are fighting to expel foreign forces, topple the government and restore their version of hardline Islamic law, have repeatedly rejected offers to hold peace talks or support the polls. The Oct. 20 vote, seen by international partners as a dry run for presidential elections next year, has been hampered by chaotic preparations, allegations of fraud and ever-present fears of militant violence. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s main spokesman, said the United States was using the elections for the sole purpose of legitimising their presence and authority. "People are given a deceptive feeling of having free right casting their votes for the malicious purpose of minimising their resentment against the foreign occupation," he said. With less than two weeks to go before the long-delayed elections, the Taliban and Islamic State have ramped up attacks across the country. The fighting has underlined the struggle security forces face as the insurgents have steadily extended their control over the countryside even though they have been unable to take and hold a major city. "The real solution of the ongoing Afghan crisis lies in the complete withdrawal of all foreign occupying forces and the restoration of a pure Islamic sovereignty," said Mujahid. Western diplomats have said the fighting raises questions about the viability of the US strategy to end the war, which for the past year has focused on forcing the militants, largely with more air strikes, to the negotiating table.

Taliban urge Afghans to boycott polls, reject peace talks

At least four Taliban commanders were killed in a drone strike carried out by foreign forces in various parts of Afghanistan in the past week.

The attacks had been conducted&nbsp;in the Farah province.

A local news agency quoted&nbsp;Farah Governor Abdul Basir Salangi as saying that the attack killed a Taliban commander Mullah Bari Jan who was guilty of around 300 murders and attacks.

He further confirmed the death of at least 30 Taliban militants including Mullah Hanzala, Mullah Mukhlis and Mullah Abdul Salam.

The Taliban has, however, rejected the same.

Meanwhile, at least four civilians were killed and a further eight others were wounded in airstrikes conducted in Kandahar province's Maroof district on Thursday.

The deceased include&nbsp;at least three women and a child.

The government forces in the district retaliated to the Taliban attack.

Members of the Afghan National Police force had called for air support and the Taliban militants were in civilian houses, leading to the civilian casualties.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

At least four Taliban commanders were killed in a drone strike carried out by foreign forces in various parts of Afghanistan in the past week. The attacks had been conducted in the Farah province.

At least four Taliban commanders were killed in a drone strike carried out by foreign forces in various parts of Afghanistan in the past week. The attacks had been conducted in the Farah province. A local news agency quoted Farah Governor Abdul Basir Salangi as saying that the attack killed a Taliban commander Mullah Bari Jan who was guilty of around 300 murders and attacks. He further confirmed the death of at least 30 Taliban militants including Mullah Hanzala, Mullah Mukhlis and Mullah Abdul Salam. The Taliban has, however, rejected the same. Meanwhile, at least four civilians were killed and a further eight others were wounded in airstrikes conducted in Kandahar province's Maroof district on Thursday. The deceased include at least three women and a child. The government forces in the district retaliated to the Taliban attack. Members of the Afghan National Police force had called for air support and the Taliban militants were in civilian houses, leading to the civilian casualties. (With inputs from ANI)

Afghanistan: Drone strikes kill 4 Taliban commanders

A US soldier was killed in action in Afghanistan on Thursday, NATO said, marking the seventh American service member to die in the war-torn country this year.

The soldier had been assigned to NATO's Resolute Support mission, which trains and assists Afghan security forces.

An investigation was under way into the soldier's death, NATO said.

General Joseph Votel, who heads the US military's Central Command, said initial reports indicate the death was as a result of "combat action", but no additional information was immediately available.

"Our thoughts go out the soldier's family and to the unit that he came from," Votel told Pentagon reporters.&nbsp;

Also Thursday, the Taliban issued a statement claiming it had blown up a US armoured vehicle in Garmser district in the southern province of Helmand, killing the soldiers on board.

The incident could not be immediately verified.&nbsp;

Currently, there are about 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan, providing the main component of the NATO mission there to support and train local forces.&nbsp;

More than 2,000 American soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since the start of the war in 2001.

While casualties have fallen dramatically since the withdrawal of US-led NATO combat troops at the end of 2014, the deadly burden has shifted to Afghanistan's security forces.

The Kabul government no longer releases death tolls, but the Taliban are thought to be killing thousands of Afghan army and police forces each year.

Votel acknowledged the number is rising.

"It's my understanding that it is increasing," he said.

"This is something that we are paying very, very close attention to," Votel added, noting that the Afghan forces are still "sustaining themselves" in terms of replacing those lost in combat.

A US soldier was killed in action in Afghanistan on Thursday, NATO said, marking the seventh American service member to die in the war-torn country this year. The soldier had been assigned to NATO's Resolute Support mission, which trains and assists Afghan security forces.

A US soldier was killed in action in Afghanistan on Thursday, NATO said, marking the seventh American service member to die in the war-torn country this year. The soldier had been assigned to NATO's Resolute Support mission, which trains and assists Afghan security forces. An investigation was under way into the soldier's death, NATO said. General Joseph Votel, who heads the US military's Central Command, said initial reports indicate the death was as a result of "combat action", but no additional information was immediately available. "Our thoughts go out the soldier's family and to the unit that he came from," Votel told Pentagon reporters. Also Thursday, the Taliban issued a statement claiming it had blown up a US armoured vehicle in Garmser district in the southern province of Helmand, killing the soldiers on board. The incident could not be immediately verified. Currently, there are about 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan, providing the main component of the NATO mission there to support and train local forces. More than 2,000 American soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since the start of the war in 2001. While casualties have fallen dramatically since the withdrawal of US-led NATO combat troops at the end of 2014, the deadly burden has shifted to Afghanistan's security forces. The Kabul government no longer releases death tolls, but the Taliban are thought to be killing thousands of Afghan army and police forces each year. Votel acknowledged the number is rising. "It's my understanding that it is increasing," he said. "This is something that we are paying very, very close attention to," Votel added, noting that the Afghan forces are still "sustaining themselves" in terms of replacing those lost in combat.

US soldier killed in action in Afghanistan

A top American general has asked Islamabad to use its influence over Taliban to bring them to the negotiations table and stop cross border movement of their leaders, a day-after Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi left US after holding meetings with top Trump Administration officials.

"As we often talk with the military leadership in Pakistan, we need them to continue to stay engaged in this. We need them to help lower the violence in Afghanistan," US Central Command Commander General Joseph Votel told reporters during a Pentagon news conference.

Pakistan, he said, need to do that by making absolutely sure there are instructions, direction, other things coming from Taliban leadership, which remains in Pakistan, to their fighters on the ground.

"They need to ensure that they continue to ensure there can be no movement back and forth and that fighters can't come back into Pakistan to get aid or medical care or other things with that. They have to help us lower the violence in Afghanistan," Votel said.

"And they need to use their influence with the Taliban to force the Taliban leadership to come to the table. And they can do this, they can put pressure on them to do this," Votel said when asked about Qureshi's remarks a day earlier in which he claimed that Pakistan has taken appropriate measures against terrorist groups.&nbsp;

"Those are the two things that we have continued to emphasize with Pakistan that they need to do. So I do acknowledge that they have done a lot in their own country, but there is more to do and it is those specific areas right there where we are seeking their closest assistance," Votel said.

On Tuesday, Qureshi met the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the National Security Advisor John Bolton.&nbsp;

Wrapping up his 10-day US trip, Qureshi in his remarks at the US Institute of Peace had challenged that US military and members of Congress to come into Pakistan, and travel anywhere inside the country and see for themselves that there are no safe havens any longer.&nbsp;

There is no doubt, Votel Acknowledged that Pakistan has conducted operations in their country to root out terrorist organisations "in certain areas," particularly areas up along the border with Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"But we do assess there still is a presence in Pakistan and we need them to continue to do that,? the general said.

A top American general has asked Islamabad to use its influence over Taliban to bring them to the negotiations table and stop cross border movement of their leaders, a day-after Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi left US after holding meetings with top Trump Administration officials.

A top American general has asked Islamabad to use its influence over Taliban to bring them to the negotiations table and stop cross border movement of their leaders, a day-after Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi left US after holding meetings with top Trump Administration officials. "As we often talk with the military leadership in Pakistan, we need them to continue to stay engaged in this. We need them to help lower the violence in Afghanistan," US Central Command Commander General Joseph Votel told reporters during a Pentagon news conference. Pakistan, he said, need to do that by making absolutely sure there are instructions, direction, other things coming from Taliban leadership, which remains in Pakistan, to their fighters on the ground. "They need to ensure that they continue to ensure there can be no movement back and forth and that fighters can't come back into Pakistan to get aid or medical care or other things with that. They have to help us lower the violence in Afghanistan," Votel said. "And they need to use their influence with the Taliban to force the Taliban leadership to come to the table. And they can do this, they can put pressure on them to do this," Votel said when asked about Qureshi's remarks a day earlier in which he claimed that Pakistan has taken appropriate measures against terrorist groups. "Those are the two things that we have continued to emphasize with Pakistan that they need to do. So I do acknowledge that they have done a lot in their own country, but there is more to do and it is those specific areas right there where we are seeking their closest assistance," Votel said. On Tuesday, Qureshi met the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the National Security Advisor John Bolton. Wrapping up his 10-day US trip, Qureshi in his remarks at the US Institute of Peace had challenged that US military and members of Congress to come into Pakistan, and travel anywhere inside the country and see for themselves that there are no safe havens any longer. There is no doubt, Votel Acknowledged that Pakistan has conducted operations in their country to root out terrorist organisations "in certain areas," particularly areas up along the border with Afghanistan. "But we do assess there still is a presence in Pakistan and we need them to continue to do that,? the general said.

Pentagon asks Pakistan to use influence over Taliban, stop cross border movement 

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