Authorities in the Afghan province of Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, ordered officials on February 18 not to take pictures or videos of "living things."

Afghanistan: Taliban's new list of restrictions, Kandahar bans photography of living things

Afghan province orders officials not to photograph living things

<p>Taking pictures or videos of "living things" has now been banned for government functionaries&nbsp;in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, the birthplace of the Taliban movement whose present-day disciples rule the South Asian country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities in the southern Afghan province&nbsp;ordered its officials on Sunday (Feb 18) not to take pictures or videos of "living things".</p>

<p>In a letter addressed to civil and military officials, the Interior provincial department directed them "to refrain from taking pictures of living things in your formal and informal gatherings, because it causes more harm than good".</p>

<p>It, however, said that text or audio content on official&nbsp;activities was allowed.</p>

<p>The directive, confirmed as authentic to the news agency AFP by a spokesperson for Kandahar's governor, specifies that these instructions are solely applicable to provincial officials and not to the general public or independent media.</p>

<p>The ban on television and images of living beings echoes the previous Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001. Since the Taliban's return to power over two years ago, various media organisations have voluntarily refrained from featuring images of people and animals.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban jailing 'unprotected' women to keep them safe</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-jailing-unprotected-women-to-keep-them-safe-669983/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Notably, Afghanistan's central government departments run by the Taliban regularly share images of high-ranking officials in diplomatic meetings with foreign dignitaries.</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban rule in Afghanistan so far</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the connection between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and mutually beneficial for all the parties involved with the Taliban as current rulers of Afghanistan acting as the nucleus of the entire set-up harbouring terror activities, a UN report indicated last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just a month after coming to power, the Taliban banned girls from secondary education in September 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On December 21, 2022, the Taliban banned women from attending universities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>WION was the first to&nbsp;report in January 2023 about the Taliban ruling in the Balkh province that prohibited male doctors from treating female patients.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban stormed to power virtually unchallenged after the withdrawal of US-led forces from the country in August 2021. The regime has not received international recognition, except from China.</p>


Taking pictures or videos of "living things" has now been banned for government functionaries in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, the birthplace of the Taliban movement whose present-day disciples rule the South Asian country.

Taking pictures or videos of "living things" has now been banned for government functionaries in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, the birthplace of the Taliban movement whose present-day disciples rule the South Asian country. Authorities in the southern Afghan province ordered its officials on Sunday (Feb 18) not to take pictures or videos of "living things". In a letter addressed to civil and military officials, the Interior provincial department directed them "to refrain from taking pictures of living things in your formal and informal gatherings, because it causes more harm than good". It, however, said that text or audio content on official activities was allowed. The directive, confirmed as authentic to the news agency AFP by a spokesperson for Kandahar's governor, specifies that these instructions are solely applicable to provincial officials and not to the general public or independent media. The ban on television and images of living beings echoes the previous Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001. Since the Taliban's return to power over two years ago, various media organisations have voluntarily refrained from featuring images of people and animals. Also watch | Afghanistan: Taliban jailing 'unprotected' women to keep them safe × Notably, Afghanistan's central government departments run by the Taliban regularly share images of high-ranking officials in diplomatic meetings with foreign dignitaries. Taliban rule in Afghanistan so far Meanwhile, the connection between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and mutually beneficial for all the parties involved with the Taliban as current rulers of Afghanistan acting as the nucleus of the entire set-up harbouring terror activities, a UN report indicated last year. Just a month after coming to power, the Taliban banned girls from secondary education in September 2021. On December 21, 2022, the Taliban banned women from attending universities. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report WION was the first to report in January 2023 about the Taliban ruling in the Balkh province that prohibited male doctors from treating female patients. The Taliban stormed to power virtually unchallenged after the withdrawal of US-led forces from the country in August 2021. The regime has not received international recognition, except from China.

Afghanistan: Kandahar officials ordered by Taliban not to photograph 'living things'

According to a new research, locust outbreaks could worsen as global temperatures continue to climb. The study is the first to show a robust link between large-scale, synchronous locust swarms and specific weather patterns.

Locust outbreak linked to climate crisis; Afghanistan, Iran & India can become hotspot

<p>A landslide caused by heavy snowfall has killed 25 people and injured eight others in the eastern Afghan province of Nuristan, a disaster management ministry spokesman said Monday, raising an earlier toll.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As a result of the landslide, some 25 people have been killed and eight injured," Janan Sayeq said in a video clip shared with media, adding to AFP that the death toll could rise.</p>


A landslide caused by heavy snowfall has killed 25 people and injured eight others in the eastern Afghan province of Nuristan, a disaster management ministry spokesman said Monday, raising an earlier toll.

A landslide caused by heavy snowfall has killed 25 people and injured eight others in the eastern Afghan province of Nuristan, a disaster management ministry spokesman said Monday, raising an earlier toll. "As a result of the landslide, some 25 people have been killed and eight injured," Janan Sayeq said in a video clip shared with media, adding to AFP that the death toll could rise.

Afghanistan: 25 killed in landslide caused by snow, more feared dead

<p>The al-Qaeda terror group is making a comeback in Afghanistan under the Taliban government, according to a new report released by the UN Security Council.</p>

<p>As per the report, the terrorist group has set up eight new training camps alongside five madrasas, Islamic educational institutions, around Afghanistan. They are located in several provinces, including Ghazni, Laghman, Parwan, and Uruzgan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also listed the locations where al-Qaeda moved its agents into and out of neighbouring Iran and also revealed the establishment of new weapons stockpiling base in the Panjshir Valley, north of Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The group maintains safe houses to facilitate the movement between Afghanistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran in the provinces of Herat, Farah, and Helmand, with additional safe house locations in Kabul," the report said.</p>

<p>"The presence of al Qaeda senior figures in the country has not changed, and the group continues to pose a threat in the region and potentially beyond," the U.N.&nbsp;report warns.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-launches-sneaker-line-a-day-after-he-was-fined-in-new-york-civil-fraud-case-691338">Trump launches sneaker line a day after he was fined in New York civil fraud case</a></p>

<p>However, it mentioned that in its assessment, "the group cannot at present project sophisticated attacks at long range."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This accommodation of al-Qaeda within Afghanistan has validated longstanding fears voiced by many observers regarding the country once again becoming a safe haven for terrorist organizations under Taliban rule," Shahin Modarres, an international security analyst specialising in Iran affiliated with the Center for Middle East and Global Order think tank, was quoted as saying by The Media Line.</p>

<p>Modarres stated that there is a shared ideological alignment and history of collaboration between al-Qaeda and the Taliban, who retook control of Afghanistan in the year 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led coalition forces from the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He claimed that both the groups had maintained close relations throughout their insurgency against the coalition forces, based on a shared jihadist philosophy and mutual support for each other's goals.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban denies report</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban released a statement declining the claims made in the report stating that the United Nations is "always spreading propaganda."</p>

<p>"There is no one related to al Qaeda in Afghanistan, nor does the Islamic Emirate allow anyone to use the territory of Afghanistan against others," the statement said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The al-Qaeda terror group is making a comeback in Afghanistan under the Taliban government, according to a new report released by the UN Security Council. As per the report, the terrorist group has set up eight new training camps alongside five madrasas, Islamic educational institutions, around Afghanistan.

The al-Qaeda terror group is making a comeback in Afghanistan under the Taliban government, according to a new report released by the UN Security Council. As per the report, the terrorist group has set up eight new training camps alongside five madrasas, Islamic educational institutions, around Afghanistan. They are located in several provinces, including Ghazni, Laghman, Parwan, and Uruzgan. The report also listed the locations where al-Qaeda moved its agents into and out of neighbouring Iran and also revealed the establishment of new weapons stockpiling base in the Panjshir Valley, north of Kabul. "The group maintains safe houses to facilitate the movement between Afghanistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran in the provinces of Herat, Farah, and Helmand, with additional safe house locations in Kabul," the report said. "The presence of al Qaeda senior figures in the country has not changed, and the group continues to pose a threat in the region and potentially beyond," the U.N. report warns. Also read: Trump launches sneaker line a day after he was fined in New York civil fraud case However, it mentioned that in its assessment, "the group cannot at present project sophisticated attacks at long range." "This accommodation of al-Qaeda within Afghanistan has validated longstanding fears voiced by many observers regarding the country once again becoming a safe haven for terrorist organizations under Taliban rule," Shahin Modarres, an international security analyst specialising in Iran affiliated with the Center for Middle East and Global Order think tank, was quoted as saying by The Media Line. Modarres stated that there is a shared ideological alignment and history of collaboration between al-Qaeda and the Taliban, who retook control of Afghanistan in the year 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led coalition forces from the nation. He claimed that both the groups had maintained close relations throughout their insurgency against the coalition forces, based on a shared jihadist philosophy and mutual support for each other's goals. Taliban denies report The Taliban released a statement declining the claims made in the report stating that the United Nations is "always spreading propaganda." "There is no one related to al Qaeda in Afghanistan, nor does the Islamic Emirate allow anyone to use the territory of Afghanistan against others," the statement said. (With inputs from agencies)

Al-Qaeda intensifying presence in Afghanistan, setting up new training facilities, says UN report

<p>Afghanistan lost eight wickets for just 10 runs, including the last five for just a single run in a chase of 309 as Sri Lanka won the second ODI by 155 runs on Sunday (Feb 11) to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Afghanistan were 128/1 and then 143/2 before Wanindu Hasaranga came on and took four wickets for 27 runs in 6.5 overs to take his team home.</p>

<p>Afghanistan skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi acknowledged the shocking&nbsp;collapse and said after the game: "Our top order did really well, but the ball was gripping for Hasaranga. Looking at the wicket and the conditions, we were positive, and were thinking of chasing it down."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-u19-world-cup-heartbreak-for-india-again-as-australia-win-by-79-runs-in-final-for-fourth-title-win-689258">ICC U19 World Cup: Heartbreak for India again as Australia win by 79 runs in final for fourth title</a></p>

<p>Shahidi, however, lamented the poor discipline in bowling and fielding to allow Sri Lanka to post a 300-plus total for the second time in a row.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The fielding was not good; we gave away chances. [There were] nearly four drops. Fielding is important, and you also have to think about the bowling, where we have to be more disciplined," Shahidi said.</p>

<p>For Afghanistan, Rahmat Shah top scored with 63 at number three while opener Ibrahim Zadran scored 54 after Rahmanullah Gurbaz departed early. Apart from Rahmat and Zadran, no Afghan batter reached the double figures as they were bowled out for 153 in 33.5 overs.</p>

<p>Earlier, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first in Pallekele. The hosts didn't have a good start too as they lost last match's double centurion Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando inside 10 overs. The next four batters scored a fifty each for Sri Lanka with Charith Asalanka remaining not out on 97.</p>

<p>Apart from him, skipper Kusal Mendis hit 61, Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 52, and Janith Liyanage managed 50 to put 308 for Sri Lanka on the board. From Afghanistan, Azamatullah Omarzai was the pick of the bowlers with the figures of 3/56.</p>

<p>The last and final match of the series will be played on February 14.</p>


Afghanistan lost eight wickets for just 10 runs, including the last five for just a single run in a chase of 309 as Sri Lanka won the second ODI by 155 runs on Sunday (Feb 11) to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Afghanistan lost eight wickets for just 10 runs, including the last five for just a single run in a chase of 309 as Sri Lanka won the second ODI by 155 runs on Sunday (Feb 11) to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Afghanistan were 128/1 and then 143/2 before Wanindu Hasaranga came on and took four wickets for 27 runs in 6.5 overs to take his team home. Afghanistan skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi acknowledged the shocking collapse and said after the game: "Our top order did really well, but the ball was gripping for Hasaranga. Looking at the wicket and the conditions, we were positive, and were thinking of chasing it down." Also Read: ICC U19 World Cup: Heartbreak for India again as Australia win by 79 runs in final for fourth title Shahidi, however, lamented the poor discipline in bowling and fielding to allow Sri Lanka to post a 300-plus total for the second time in a row. "The fielding was not good; we gave away chances. [There were] nearly four drops. Fielding is important, and you also have to think about the bowling, where we have to be more disciplined," Shahidi said. For Afghanistan, Rahmat Shah top scored with 63 at number three while opener Ibrahim Zadran scored 54 after Rahmanullah Gurbaz departed early. Apart from Rahmat and Zadran, no Afghan batter reached the double figures as they were bowled out for 153 in 33.5 overs. Earlier, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first in Pallekele. The hosts didn't have a good start too as they lost last match's double centurion Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando inside 10 overs. The next four batters scored a fifty each for Sri Lanka with Charith Asalanka remaining not out on 97. Apart from him, skipper Kusal Mendis hit 61, Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 52, and Janith Liyanage managed 50 to put 308 for Sri Lanka on the board. From Afghanistan, Azamatullah Omarzai was the pick of the bowlers with the figures of 3/56. The last and final match of the series will be played on February 14.

Afghanistan, in stunning collapse, lose eight wickets for 10 runs as Sri Lanka seal series with win in 2nd ODI

Two Afghan detainees who spent over 14 years in US custody at the Guantanamo Bay Detention Center have been released from house arrest in Oman. The Taliban has said that Abdul Zahir Saber and Abdul Karim have been released due to efforts by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Taliban: 2 Afghans detained at notorious US prison released

Taliban said 2 Afghans detained at notorious US prison have been released. Taliban to organise special welcome for the ex-Guantanamo prisoners. Both the prisoners were taken to Guantanamo Bay in 2002. Watch to know more!

Afghanistan | 2 Afghans detained at notorious US prison released: Taliban

A refugee from Afghanistan who lied to gain asylum in Britain and claimed he worked for MI6 and met the King has rejected allegations he is a Russian spy.

Alleged Russian spy worked for UK's spy agencies like MI6

What is the future of Afghan refugees? Over 1 million Afghanis were ordered to leave Pakistan last year. Afghan refugee, Fatima Amiri barred from receiving education...Pakistan government's crackdown on Afghan refugees continues. Watch to know more!

Pakistan: No Education for Afghan refugees in Pakistan?

<p>Chinese top leader Xi Jinping accepted the credentials of the envoy of Taliban-run Afghanistan in Beijing in a major formalisation of the regime partly constituted by the UN-designated terrorists. Xi Jinping received the credentials of the Afghan ambassador during an official ceremony.</p>

<p>Beijing's move is a reciprocation of the Taliban's step in September 2023 when it welcomed Zhao Sheng as Chinese ambassador in Kabul. Taliban-run Afghanistan government's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi had hailed the nomination of Zhao Sheng as a "significant step with a significant message".</p>

<p>China's Xi on Jan 30 welcomed Bilal Karimi as an ambassador to Beijing and accepted his credentials as a special representative of the so-called Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Karimi had met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in December 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China-Taliban ties</strong></h2>

<p>China has declared that it respects Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and has declined to comment on the deteriorating state of women's rights in the country since the Taliban stormed to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, mining contracts are already managed by China in Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-2023-when-chinas-bri-dream-faced-an-italian-reality-check-674821">Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check'</a></strong></p>

<p>The country is part of Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a transcontinental trade project mired in accusations of exploitative practices. However, the inclusion of Afghanistan into BRI occurred during democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani's tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the withdrawal of US forces from the country that consequently put the Taliban at the helm of affairs, there emerged a crucial element of scepticism in Beijing's corridors of power over Afghanistan being part of the BRI.&nbsp;<img alt="Afghanistan-Xinjiang" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5e1149b-391d-4755-954a-2ffe354370e9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HongKong%20%282%29.png" /></p>

<p>This is because of the security threats posed by terrorists and separatists in China's restive Xinjiang province, bordering Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;</strong><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fails-to-strike-connectivity-goal-with-taliban-amid-security-threats-in-xinjiang-report-684222">China fails to strike connectivity goal with Taliban amid security threats in Xinjiang: Report</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-fails-to-strike-connectivity-goal-with-taliban-amid-security-threats-in-xinjiang-report-684234/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Recently, Afghanistan's Taliban government completed the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour.</p>

<p>Analysts predict that Beijing is likely to approach the situation cautiously. China is yet to proceed with the potential flow of trade through the newly constructed route.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chinese top leader Xi Jinping accepted the credentials of the envoy of Taliban-run Afghanistan in Beijing in a major formalisation of the regime partly constituted by the UN-designated terrorists.

Chinese top leader Xi Jinping accepted the credentials of the envoy of Taliban-run Afghanistan in Beijing in a major formalisation of the regime partly constituted by the UN-designated terrorists. Xi Jinping received the credentials of the Afghan ambassador during an official ceremony. Beijing's move is a reciprocation of the Taliban's step in September 2023 when it welcomed Zhao Sheng as Chinese ambassador in Kabul. Taliban-run Afghanistan government's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi had hailed the nomination of Zhao Sheng as a "significant step with a significant message". China's Xi on Jan 30 welcomed Bilal Karimi as an ambassador to Beijing and accepted his credentials as a special representative of the so-called Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Earlier, Karimi had met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in December 2023. China-Taliban ties China has declared that it respects Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and has declined to comment on the deteriorating state of women's rights in the country since the Taliban stormed to power. Besides, mining contracts are already managed by China in Afghanistan. Also read | Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check' The country is part of Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a transcontinental trade project mired in accusations of exploitative practices. However, the inclusion of Afghanistan into BRI occurred during democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani's tenure. After the withdrawal of US forces from the country that consequently put the Taliban at the helm of affairs, there emerged a crucial element of scepticism in Beijing's corridors of power over Afghanistan being part of the BRI. This is because of the security threats posed by terrorists and separatists in China's restive Xinjiang province, bordering Afghanistan. Also watch | China fails to strike connectivity goal with Taliban amid security threats in Xinjiang: Report × Recently, Afghanistan's Taliban government completed the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour. Analysts predict that Beijing is likely to approach the situation cautiously. China is yet to proceed with the potential flow of trade through the newly constructed route. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping welcomes Taliban ambassador to China as Kabul-Beijing ties move forward

China has accepted the credentials of the Taliban Envoy to Beijing, President Xi Jinping has formally accepted Bilal Karimi as the Ambassador and special representative.

China accepts credentials of Afghanistan's Taliban ambassador; China-Taliban step up diplomatic ties

<p>India participated in the&nbsp;first international meeting hosted by&nbsp;Afghanistan's Taliban regime on Monday (Jan 29) which was the first since returning to power in Kabul in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting was aimed at promoting economic connectivity and cooperation with regional countries on "common challenges".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted representatives of India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iran among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He proposed "regional peace talks to increase and continue positive interaction with Afghanistan", calling for "constructive engagement" with the international community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He, however, rejected the need for the appointment of a United Nations special envoy to Afghanistan despite the fact that the UN Security Council in December passed a resolution calling for the appointment of a special envoy for the South Asian nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-frees-iranian-fishing-boat-hijacked-off-somalia-684788">Indian Navy frees Iranian fishing boat hijacked off Somalia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Muttaqi told reporters: "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan respects others' interests, choices, government structures, and development models, and in return, expects others to respect Afghanistan's interests."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2021, the Taliban reclaimed power, but it didn't get recognition from the international community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world avoided recognising the Afghan government majorly due to its restrictions on women's basic rights and other human rights violations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the absence of global recognition, Afghanistan's economy has struggled through decades of war. The nation was also crippled because of international sanctions on the banking system and foreign assets after the Taliban government came to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-opposition-agrees-to-submit-impeachment-motion-against-president-muizzu-684759">Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against President Muizzu</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He spoke in his local language, but his office released the English translation in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"FM Muttaqi stressed that regional countries should hold regional peace talks to increase and continue positive interaction with Afghanistan, adding Mr. Muttaqi asked the participants to take advantage of the emerging opportunities in Afghanistan based on a region-oriented tradition so as to coordinate in managing the potential threats," the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran-Pak tensions: 9 Pak workers killed in Sistan-Baluchestan province&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-pak-tensions-9-pak-workers-killed-in-sistan-baluchestan-province-684908/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The UN is due to hold a meeting on the situation in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;on February 18 and 19 in the Qatari capital Doha.</p>

<p>A UN statement revealed that the meeting is aimed at discussing "how to approach increasing international engagement in a more coherent, coordinated and structured manner".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muttaqi called on participants of the Kabul meeting to present the "ground realities" at that conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


India participated in the first international meeting hosted by Afghanistan's Taliban regime on Monday (Jan 29) which was the first since returning to power in Kabul in 2021.

India participated in the first international meeting hosted by Afghanistan's Taliban regime on Monday (Jan 29) which was the first since returning to power in Kabul in 2021. The meeting was aimed at promoting economic connectivity and cooperation with regional countries on "common challenges". Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted representatives of India, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iran among others. He proposed "regional peace talks to increase and continue positive interaction with Afghanistan", calling for "constructive engagement" with the international community. He, however, rejected the need for the appointment of a United Nations special envoy to Afghanistan despite the fact that the UN Security Council in December passed a resolution calling for the appointment of a special envoy for the South Asian nation. Also read: Indian Navy frees Iranian fishing boat hijacked off Somalia Muttaqi told reporters: "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan respects others' interests, choices, government structures, and development models, and in return, expects others to respect Afghanistan's interests." In 2021, the Taliban reclaimed power, but it didn't get recognition from the international community. The world avoided recognising the Afghan government majorly due to its restrictions on women's basic rights and other human rights violations. In the absence of global recognition, Afghanistan's economy has struggled through decades of war. The nation was also crippled because of international sanctions on the banking system and foreign assets after the Taliban government came to power. Also read: Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against President Muizzu He spoke in his local language, but his office released the English translation in a statement. "FM Muttaqi stressed that regional countries should hold regional peace talks to increase and continue positive interaction with Afghanistan, adding Mr. Muttaqi asked the participants to take advantage of the emerging opportunities in Afghanistan based on a region-oriented tradition so as to coordinate in managing the potential threats," the statement read. Watch: Iran-Pak tensions: 9 Pak workers killed in Sistan-Baluchestan province × The UN is due to hold a meeting on the situation in Afghanistan on February 18 and 19 in the Qatari capital Doha. A UN statement revealed that the meeting is aimed at discussing "how to approach increasing international engagement in a more coherent, coordinated and structured manner". Muttaqi called on participants of the Kabul meeting to present the "ground realities" at that conference. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: India participates in first international meeting hosted by Taliban regime

Afghanistan's Taliban government has completed the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour.

China fails to strike connectivity goal with Taliban amid security threats in Xinjiang: Report

<p>Pakistan and Afghanistan on have&nbsp;reopened the Torkham border crossing, weeks after a row over travel papers erupted earlier this month.</p>

<p>The border was closed since Jan 12, as Islamabad imposed strict controls requiring truck drivers from both sides to have visas and passports.&nbsp;<img alt="Torkham crossing | Google Maps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="850a4a55-c51f-4e91-baa7-2ce79b86a7b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-24T100000.914.png" /></p>

<p><em>Torkham crossing | Google Maps</em></p>

<p>For decades, the border check on both sides allowed truck drivers entry and exit without passport compulsions, throwing in the semblance of a free flow of people and goods in the Af-Pak region.</p>

<p>During 1978-1992 Afghan Civil War, Pakistan facilitated the&nbsp;route for the passage of US-backed&nbsp;non-Afghan fighters into Afghanistan to fight against the Soviet Army.</p>

<p>Pakistan and Afghanistan share a 2,640 km border&nbsp;— called the Durand Line&nbsp;— which Kabul, under both democratically-elected governments as well as the Taliban, has described as a vestige of the British empire in the subcontinent and deems illegal.</p>

<p>A Pakistan border official confirmed to the AFP news agency the reopening of border on Monday (Jan 22) after negotiations between Islamabad and Kabul, allowing hundreds of waiting trucks to cross.</p>

<p>"It was agreed during the discussions that until 31 March, Pakistani and Afghan drivers can cross the border without a visa and passport," he said.</p>

<p>"However, starting on 1 April, both a visa and passport will be mandatory," he said.</p>

<p>According to Islamabad-based Center for Research and Security Studies, more than 1,500 civilians, security personnel, and militants were killed in attacks by armed groups.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Protests at Afghanistan-Pakistan border, anger over new rules for Afghan visitors | World News| WION</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protests-at-afghanistan-pakistan-border-anger-over-new-rules-for-afghan-visitors-world-news-wion-655987/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Pakistan desires Afghanistan to adopt a tough stance against the TTP (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan)," a senior provincial government official in Peshawar City told the AFP.</p>

<p>"If they do not, the trade route will be intermittently closed for various reasons," the official said.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan-Afghanistan ties in recent months</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan in November&nbsp;claimed that the Afghan government is "doing nothing against terrorism emanating from Afghan soil". Islamabad claims that it is the&nbsp;violation of the US-Taliban Doha agreement that made American withdrawal from Afghanistan conditional based on the Taliban's assurance that Afghanistan "will not become a safe haven for terrorists".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-claims-60-pc-rise-in-terror-after-investing-in-afghanistans-taliban-regime-656479">After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Ties between the two countries have increasingly frayed in recent months, with Islamabad accusing the Taliban government of failing to root out militants staging attacks in Pakistan from their soil.</p>

<p>Kabul has rejected the allegations.</p>

<p>According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), more than 500,000 Afghans have fled Pakistan in the four months since Islamabad ordered undocumented migrants to leave or face arrest.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan and Afghanistan on have reopened the Torkham border crossing, weeks after a row over travel papers erupted earlier this month. The border was closed since Jan 12, as Islamabad imposed strict controls requiring truck drivers from both sides to have visas and passports.

Pakistan and Afghanistan on have reopened the Torkham border crossing, weeks after a row over travel papers erupted earlier this month. The border was closed since Jan 12, as Islamabad imposed strict controls requiring truck drivers from both sides to have visas and passports. Torkham crossing | Google Maps For decades, the border check on both sides allowed truck drivers entry and exit without passport compulsions, throwing in the semblance of a free flow of people and goods in the Af-Pak region. During 1978-1992 Afghan Civil War, Pakistan facilitated the route for the passage of US-backed non-Afghan fighters into Afghanistan to fight against the Soviet Army. Pakistan and Afghanistan share a 2,640 km border — called the Durand Line — which Kabul, under both democratically-elected governments as well as the Taliban, has described as a vestige of the British empire in the subcontinent and deems illegal. A Pakistan border official confirmed to the AFP news agency the reopening of border on Monday (Jan 22) after negotiations between Islamabad and Kabul, allowing hundreds of waiting trucks to cross. "It was agreed during the discussions that until 31 March, Pakistani and Afghan drivers can cross the border without a visa and passport," he said. "However, starting on 1 April, both a visa and passport will be mandatory," he said. According to Islamabad-based Center for Research and Security Studies, more than 1,500 civilians, security personnel, and militants were killed in attacks by armed groups. Also watch | Protests at Afghanistan-Pakistan border, anger over new rules for Afghan visitors | World News| WION × "Pakistan desires Afghanistan to adopt a tough stance against the TTP (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan)," a senior provincial government official in Peshawar City told the AFP. "If they do not, the trade route will be intermittently closed for various reasons," the official said. Pakistan-Afghanistan ties in recent months Pakistan in November claimed that the Afghan government is "doing nothing against terrorism emanating from Afghan soil". Islamabad claims that it is the violation of the US-Taliban Doha agreement that made American withdrawal from Afghanistan conditional based on the Taliban's assurance that Afghanistan "will not become a safe haven for terrorists". Also read | After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan Ties between the two countries have increasingly frayed in recent months, with Islamabad accusing the Taliban government of failing to root out militants staging attacks in Pakistan from their soil. Kabul has rejected the allegations. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), more than 500,000 Afghans have fled Pakistan in the four months since Islamabad ordered undocumented migrants to leave or face arrest. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan reopens border crossing with Afghanistan after deadlock over visa requirements

<p>After a commercial aircraft initially believed to be from India crashed in Afghanistan’s northeast Badakhshan province on Saturday (Jan 20) night, the Indian authorities clarified that none of India's regular flights fly that route.</p>

<p>After verifying if it was a private or a chartered flight, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Sunday (Jan 21) said "the plane is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non-Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited: Indian Govt <a href="https://t.co/2yrhHu0zxL">https://t.co/2yrhHu0zxL</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1748974666067411380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft," the Ministry of Civil Aviation added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited.</p>
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI/status/1748973098169209068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Afghanistan-based media publications initially reported&nbsp;that the crashed plane was of Indian origin and was en route to Moscow.</p>

<p>An official readout from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that the aircraft was an air ambulance&nbsp;and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and had refueled at Gaya airport in eastern India's Bihar state.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Indian Civil Aviation ministry says that the Afghanistan crash did not involve an Indian Carrier: <a href="https://t.co/MoUdlyQFlC">https://t.co/MoUdlyQFlC</a> <a href="https://t.co/y1XjG4kJhe">pic.twitter.com/y1XjG4kJhe</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1748986277259776230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"As per available information, the crashed aircraft is a DF-10 (Dassault Falcon) small aircraft registered in Morocco. It is not an aircraft of Indian carriers. The aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and did refueling at Gaya Airport," the Ministry of Civil Aviation's statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did Taliban say?</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban-run&nbsp;Afghan Aviation Ministry said that a&nbsp;plane carrying six Russians from India to Tashkent crashed in Badakshan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zabihullah Amiri, a spokesperson for Badakhshan's provincial government, told Reuters that a team had been sent to the location of the crash, a remote area more than 200 km (124 miles) from the provincial capital Fayzabad that would take the team 12 hours to reach.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Russia say?</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;A Russian-registered chartered plane with six people on board disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan a day earlier, Russian aviation authorities said after Afghan police said they had received reports of a crash. The aircraft, local media reported while citing Taliban officials, was of Indian origin, a claim later denounced by Indian authorities.</p>

<p>The plane was a charter ambulance flight travelling from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan on a French-made Dassault Aviation.</p>

<p>The flight was carrying out a private medical evacuation from Thailand's Pattaya, a popular tourist destination for Russians, to Moscow, Russian state-run TASS news agency reported, citing the Russian embassy in Bangkok.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-badakhshan-province-682015/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The claim coincides with the statement of Indian aviation ministry&nbsp;that it was an air ambulance flying from Thailand to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On board was a bedridden patient in serious condition, a Russian citizen, who was transported from one of the hospitals in Pattaya to Russia," the RIA news agency reported, citing a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport.</p>

<p>Russia's Investigative Committee said it had opened a criminal case to determine if safety rules had been violated, Reuters reported.</p>


After a commercial aircraft initially believed to be from India crashed in Afghanistan’s northeast Badakhshan province on Saturday (Jan 20) night, the Indian authorities clarified that none of India's regular flights fly that route.

After a commercial aircraft initially believed to be from India crashed in Afghanistan’s northeast Badakhshan province on Saturday (Jan 20) night, the Indian authorities clarified that none of India's regular flights fly that route. After verifying if it was a private or a chartered flight, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Sunday (Jan 21) said "the plane is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non-Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft." The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited: Indian Govt https://t.co/2yrhHu0zxL — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 21, 2024 × "It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft," the Ministry of Civil Aviation added. The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited. — MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) January 21, 2024 × Afghanistan-based media publications initially reported that the crashed plane was of Indian origin and was en route to Moscow. An official readout from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that the aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and had refueled at Gaya airport in eastern India's Bihar state. The Indian Civil Aviation ministry says that the Afghanistan crash did not involve an Indian Carrier: https://t.co/MoUdlyQFlC pic.twitter.com/y1XjG4kJhe — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 21, 2024 × "As per available information, the crashed aircraft is a DF-10 (Dassault Falcon) small aircraft registered in Morocco. It is not an aircraft of Indian carriers. The aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and did refueling at Gaya Airport," the Ministry of Civil Aviation's statement read. What did Taliban say? The Taliban-run Afghan Aviation Ministry said that a plane carrying six Russians from India to Tashkent crashed in Badakshan. Zabihullah Amiri, a spokesperson for Badakhshan's provincial government, told Reuters that a team had been sent to the location of the crash, a remote area more than 200 km (124 miles) from the provincial capital Fayzabad that would take the team 12 hours to reach. What did Russia say? A Russian-registered chartered plane with six people on board disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan a day earlier, Russian aviation authorities said after Afghan police said they had received reports of a crash. The aircraft, local media reported while citing Taliban officials, was of Indian origin, a claim later denounced by Indian authorities. The plane was a charter ambulance flight travelling from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan on a French-made Dassault Aviation. The flight was carrying out a private medical evacuation from Thailand's Pattaya, a popular tourist destination for Russians, to Moscow, Russian state-run TASS news agency reported, citing the Russian embassy in Bangkok. Also watch | Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province × The claim coincides with the statement of Indian aviation ministry that it was an air ambulance flying from Thailand to Moscow. "On board was a bedridden patient in serious condition, a Russian citizen, who was transported from one of the hospitals in Pattaya to Russia," the RIA news agency reported, citing a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport. Russia's Investigative Committee said it had opened a criminal case to determine if safety rules had been violated, Reuters reported.

Afghanistan plane crash: What we know so far as India, Taliban, Russia give differing accounts

Mystery surrounds a Russian private jet that crashed in Afghanistan. The private aircraft was reportedly on its way to Moscow, when it went off radar over Afghanistan. The local media reported that a plane had crashed in the mountains of Badakhshan province. On monday, Russian media reports claimed that an ally of President Vladimir Putin, and his wife, were killed in the crash. A probe has been ordered.

Gravitas: Putin ally killed in plane crash? Mystery around fate of Russia jet missing in Afghanistan

Following a threat alert regarding a potential terror attack, several educational institutes in Islamabad were closed to avoid any catastrophe. This security threat comes as Pakistan is scheduled to hold general elections on February 8.

Pakistan's security capital under threat as intel reports reveal threat of terror attack

<p>In a generous move to support Afghan people in dealing with the locust menace, the Indian government has supplied 40,000 litres of Malathion, an environmentally friendly pesticide, through Iran's Chabahar port. The Taliban-controlled Ministry of Agriculture has expressed gratitude for this assistance, highlighting its significance in protecting crops and ensuring food security in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Malathion, known for its efficacy in arid regions and minimal water usage, is considered a crucial tool in locust control. The aid not only addresses the immediate threat in Afghanistan but also serves to prevent the spread of locusts to&nbsp;neighbouring Central Asian countries.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Flash: India sends 40,000 liters of environment friendly pesticide Malathion to Afghanistan through Iran's Chabahar port, says Taliban run Agriculture ministry; The pesticide is used to fight locusts menace. <a href="https://t.co/rmfZukpYNG">pic.twitter.com/rmfZukpYNG</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1749358191098679633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">40,000 liters of malathion donated by the people of India arrived in Kabul through Iran's Chabahar port. The total value of these mulches reaches about 40 million Afghanis and covers about 80,000 hectares of land and is used in the campaign against locusts if necessary. <a href="https://t.co/ZdqqFDCF43">pic.twitter.com/ZdqqFDCF43</a></p>
— Ministry of Agriculture-Afghanistan (@MAIL_AF) <a href="https://twitter.com/MAIL_AF/status/1749327200384430350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Mawlawi Ataullah Omari, the Taliban's Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation &amp; Livestock conveyed his appreciation in a statement, stating, "We are grateful to the Government of the Republic of India and its people for supplying 40,000 litres of chemical material (Malathion) in the agriculture sector to prevent the locust menace."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The assistance, officially handed over in 2 trucks on Monday, 22nd January, marks a significant step in bolstering agricultural resilience in a country. India doesn't recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul but has a technical office in the country to help with humanitarian support. In the past, New Delhi has helped the country with much-needed wheat and efforts to combat drug issues.&nbsp;</p>


In a generous move to support Afghan people in dealing with the locust menace, the Indian government has supplied 40,000 litres of Malathion, an environmentally friendly pesticide, through Iran's Chabahar port.

In a generous move to support Afghan people in dealing with the locust menace, the Indian government has supplied 40,000 litres of Malathion, an environmentally friendly pesticide, through Iran's Chabahar port. The Taliban-controlled Ministry of Agriculture has expressed gratitude for this assistance, highlighting its significance in protecting crops and ensuring food security in Afghanistan. Malathion, known for its efficacy in arid regions and minimal water usage, is considered a crucial tool in locust control. The aid not only addresses the immediate threat in Afghanistan but also serves to prevent the spread of locusts to neighbouring Central Asian countries. Flash: India sends 40,000 liters of environment friendly pesticide Malathion to Afghanistan through Iran's Chabahar port, says Taliban run Agriculture ministry; The pesticide is used to fight locusts menace. pic.twitter.com/rmfZukpYNG — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 22, 2024 × 40,000 liters of malathion donated by the people of India arrived in Kabul through Iran's Chabahar port. The total value of these mulches reaches about 40 million Afghanis and covers about 80,000 hectares of land and is used in the campaign against locusts if necessary. pic.twitter.com/ZdqqFDCF43 — Ministry of Agriculture-Afghanistan (@MAIL_AF) January 22, 2024 × Mawlawi Ataullah Omari, the Taliban's Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation & Livestock conveyed his appreciation in a statement, stating, "We are grateful to the Government of the Republic of India and its people for supplying 40,000 litres of chemical material (Malathion) in the agriculture sector to prevent the locust menace." The assistance, officially handed over in 2 trucks on Monday, 22nd January, marks a significant step in bolstering agricultural resilience in a country. India doesn't recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul but has a technical office in the country to help with humanitarian support. In the past, New Delhi has helped the country with much-needed wheat and efforts to combat drug issues.

India helps Afghanistan, sends 40,000 litres of Malathion to combat locust threat

<p>Four individuals have miraculously survived the Moscow-bound jet crash in Afghanistan, as reported by Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia on Sunday (Jan 21). A charter plane destined for Moscow had gone off the radar on Saturday (Jan 20) after which it was reported that it had crashed in the mountains in northern Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, about the other two passengers, Taliban provincial officials who reached the crash site, reportedly said that they could not survive the incident and were killed.</p>

<p>Providing further updates on those who survived the tragedy, the Taliban administration's spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid identified the pilot as among the survivors and mentioned ongoing efforts to search for and assist the remaining individuals.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-resumes-production-at-major-oilfield-after-two-week-halt-682172">Libya resumes crude production at major oilfield after two-week halt</a></p>

<p>This development comes as the Russian-registered charter plane, carrying six people, disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan, and a crash incident was reported to Afghan police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The condition of surviving individuals, who are now with Taliban officials, remains unclear. The commercial aircraft was initially thought to be from India, however, this was not the case. As per the Russian aviation authority, the flight was identified as a charter ambulance that originated from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya and was en route to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan, Reuters reported.</p>

<p>Some media reports citing sources said that the French-made Dassault Aviation Falcon 10 jet, manufactured in 1978, experienced fuel issues about 25 minutes before disappearing from radar.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-spend-millions-for-upgradation-of-missile-system-used-in-red-sea-amid-rising-tensions-682167">UK to spend millions for upgradation of missile system used in Red Sea amid rising tensions</a></p>

<p>The pilot reportedly signalled low fuel and attempted to land in Tajikistan. Subsequently, both engines stopped functioning. However, WION cannot verify this information independently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The jet was carrying a bedridden Russian patient and her husband, a private Russian entrepreneur, who had paid for the flight, as per media reports citing&nbsp;a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport. The couple reportedly hailed from Volgodonsk in southern Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-mountains-682031">Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-mountains-682031/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Several other reports citing the plane manifest list suggested that the crew were also Russian nationals.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Four individuals have miraculously survived the Moscow-bound jet crash in Afghanistan, as reported by Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia on Sunday (Jan 21). A charter plane destined for Moscow had gone off the radar on Saturday (Jan 20) after which it was reported that it had crashed in the mountains in northern Afghanistan.

Four individuals have miraculously survived the Moscow-bound jet crash in Afghanistan, as reported by Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia on Sunday (Jan 21). A charter plane destined for Moscow had gone off the radar on Saturday (Jan 20) after which it was reported that it had crashed in the mountains in northern Afghanistan. Meanwhile, about the other two passengers, Taliban provincial officials who reached the crash site, reportedly said that they could not survive the incident and were killed. Providing further updates on those who survived the tragedy, the Taliban administration's spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid identified the pilot as among the survivors and mentioned ongoing efforts to search for and assist the remaining individuals. Also Read | Libya resumes crude production at major oilfield after two-week halt This development comes as the Russian-registered charter plane, carrying six people, disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan, and a crash incident was reported to Afghan police. The condition of surviving individuals, who are now with Taliban officials, remains unclear. The commercial aircraft was initially thought to be from India, however, this was not the case. As per the Russian aviation authority, the flight was identified as a charter ambulance that originated from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya and was en route to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan, Reuters reported. Some media reports citing sources said that the French-made Dassault Aviation Falcon 10 jet, manufactured in 1978, experienced fuel issues about 25 minutes before disappearing from radar. Also Read | UK to spend millions for upgradation of missile system used in Red Sea amid rising tensions The pilot reportedly signalled low fuel and attempted to land in Tajikistan. Subsequently, both engines stopped functioning. However, WION cannot verify this information independently. The jet was carrying a bedridden Russian patient and her husband, a private Russian entrepreneur, who had paid for the flight, as per media reports citing a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport. The couple reportedly hailed from Volgodonsk in southern Russia. Watch | Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains × Several other reports citing the plane manifest list suggested that the crew were also Russian nationals. (With inputs from agencies)

Four miraculously survive Moscow-bound charter jet crash in Afghanistan

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">In a recent disclosure by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), it has been unveiled that Afghanistan has been the recipient of substantial financial aid, with an average of $80 million arriving every 10 to 14 days over the past three months. This revelation comes amid a shrinking Afghan economy, as reported by TOLOnews. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">SIGAR's report emphasises that these funds are transported in various shipments and stored in private banks under the United Nations' accounts, aiming to benefit the Afghan people.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a staggering 69 percent of Afghans currently lack access to sufficient resources for their basic necessities. The economic downturn in Afghanistan is further highlighted by a 27 percent contraction since 2020. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This has left seven out of ten Afghans struggling to meet essential needs such as food, healthcare, and employment. The humanitarian situation has significantly deteriorated since the Taliban's resurgence in August 2021, exacerbated by the Ukraine crisis, leading to a surge in food prices and rendering crucial items unaffordable for the average citizen.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">In response to the aid influx, the Taliban asserts that the funds delivered through the UN are allocated to crucial sectors like education, health, and development projects. TOLOnews reports that Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's spokesperson, clarified, "The aid given by the countries is implemented through international institutions in Kabul; this money is available to them, and the Islamic Emirate does not benefit from this money." <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, some economic analysts argue that the international community's financial support could play a pivotal role in stabilising Afghanistan's fiscal situation and fostering economic growth.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Despite the claims of constructive utilisation, Afghanistan continues to grapple with persistent human rights violations, particularly against women and minorities. The post-government collapse landscape has witnessed a decline in sectarian conflicts, yet serious concerns persist, reflecting a complex socio-political scenario. <o:p></o:p></span></p>


In a recent disclosure by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), it has been unveiled that Afghanistan has been the recipient of substantial financial aid, with an average of $80 million arriving every 10 to 14 days over the past three months.

In a recent disclosure by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), it has been unveiled that Afghanistan has been the recipient of substantial financial aid, with an average of $80 million arriving every 10 to 14 days over the past three months. This revelation comes amid a shrinking Afghan economy, as reported by TOLOnews. SIGAR's report emphasises that these funds are transported in various shipments and stored in private banks under the United Nations' accounts, aiming to benefit the Afghan people. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a staggering 69 percent of Afghans currently lack access to sufficient resources for their basic necessities. The economic downturn in Afghanistan is further highlighted by a 27 percent contraction since 2020. This has left seven out of ten Afghans struggling to meet essential needs such as food, healthcare, and employment. The humanitarian situation has significantly deteriorated since the Taliban's resurgence in August 2021, exacerbated by the Ukraine crisis, leading to a surge in food prices and rendering crucial items unaffordable for the average citizen. In response to the aid influx, the Taliban asserts that the funds delivered through the UN are allocated to crucial sectors like education, health, and development projects. TOLOnews reports that Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's spokesperson, clarified, "The aid given by the countries is implemented through international institutions in Kabul; this money is available to them, and the Islamic Emirate does not benefit from this money." However, some economic analysts argue that the international community's financial support could play a pivotal role in stabilising Afghanistan's fiscal situation and fostering economic growth. Despite the claims of constructive utilisation, Afghanistan continues to grapple with persistent human rights violations, particularly against women and minorities. The post-government collapse landscape has witnessed a decline in sectarian conflicts, yet serious concerns persist, reflecting a complex socio-political scenario.

Afghanistan receives $80 million bi-weekly amid economic decline: UN Report

Afghanistan's provincial regime and local police have claimed that a plane originating from India en route to Moscow crashed in the Wakhan region of Badakhshan.

Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's mountains

Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province

<p>Taliban's supreme leader&nbsp;Hibatullah Akhundzada has claimed that his hardline regime has ensured the rights of girls and women better than any previous governments, according to a report in <em>The Independent</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akhundzada claimed that his regime has done away with the practice of forcefully marrying off women and widows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have issued a six-principle decree regarding women’s rights. The previous governments have not provided the rights of women. We said don’t marry women by force, don’t violate mahr [amount paid by groom to the bride at the time of marriage as a traditional gift], don’t force women for nikah, don’t marry a widow by force. We give women the heritage,” said&nbsp;Akhundzada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban boss also lauded his regime for not implementing the Islamic punishment method of Hudud in which the accused are subjected to amputation, flogging, stoning and death for crimes deemed extreme. The practice was predominantly in place during Taliban's previous regime in the 1990s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, despite his claims, the nonprofit Human Rights Watch (HRW) has stated that the reality on the ground remains completely different.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we know from their conduct on the ground is that there are credible reports of serious increases in child and forced marriage since the Taliban took over,”&nbsp;Heather Barr, associate director of women’s rights division at HRW told the outlet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We also know that widows – and women in general – have almost no access to justice, so any rights they might have on paper are virtually meaningless," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-jailing-unprotected-women-to-keep-them-safe-669983"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban jailing 'unprotected' women to keep them safe</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-jailing-unprotected-women-to-keep-them-safe-669983/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Taliban 2.0</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, immediately after Taliban 2.0 came to power in August 2021, the girls and women in the country were thrown out of schools and workplaces. Last month, the United Nations in its report said the Taliban administration was sending&nbsp;women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence.</p>

<p>According to the report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the Taliban send women to prisons if they have no male relatives to stay with or if the male relatives are considered unsafe.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-sending-women-to-prisons-to-protect-them-from-gender-based-violence-says-report-669928"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban sending women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence, says report</strong></a></p>

<p>"The most-reported types of complaints of gender-based violence against women and girls lodged with the de facto police, prosecution units, and courts were murder, including murder perpetrated for reasons of so-called 'honour',&nbsp;rape, causing injury or disability, and depriving a woman of inheritance," the report said.</p>

<p>Citing the Taliban, the UNAMA report said that women were sent to prisons for their protection “akin to how prisons have been used to accommodate drug addicts and homeless people in Kabul".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has claimed that his hardline regime has ensured the rights of girls and women better than any previous governments, according to a report in The Independent.

Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has claimed that his hardline regime has ensured the rights of girls and women better than any previous governments, according to a report in The Independent. Akhundzada claimed that his regime has done away with the practice of forcefully marrying off women and widows. “We have issued a six-principle decree regarding women’s rights. The previous governments have not provided the rights of women. We said don’t marry women by force, don’t violate mahr [amount paid by groom to the bride at the time of marriage as a traditional gift], don’t force women for nikah, don’t marry a widow by force. We give women the heritage,” said Akhundzada. The Taliban boss also lauded his regime for not implementing the Islamic punishment method of Hudud in which the accused are subjected to amputation, flogging, stoning and death for crimes deemed extreme. The practice was predominantly in place during Taliban's previous regime in the 1990s. However, despite his claims, the nonprofit Human Rights Watch (HRW) has stated that the reality on the ground remains completely different. "What we know from their conduct on the ground is that there are credible reports of serious increases in child and forced marriage since the Taliban took over,” Heather Barr, associate director of women’s rights division at HRW told the outlet. “We also know that widows – and women in general – have almost no access to justice, so any rights they might have on paper are virtually meaningless," she added. Watch | Afghanistan: Taliban jailing 'unprotected' women to keep them safe × Taliban 2.0 Notably, immediately after Taliban 2.0 came to power in August 2021, the girls and women in the country were thrown out of schools and workplaces. Last month, the United Nations in its report said the Taliban administration was sending women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence. According to the report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the Taliban send women to prisons if they have no male relatives to stay with or if the male relatives are considered unsafe. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban sending women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence, says report "The most-reported types of complaints of gender-based violence against women and girls lodged with the de facto police, prosecution units, and courts were murder, including murder perpetrated for reasons of so-called 'honour', rape, causing injury or disability, and depriving a woman of inheritance," the report said. Citing the Taliban, the UNAMA report said that women were sent to prisons for their protection “akin to how prisons have been used to accommodate drug addicts and homeless people in Kabul". (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban chief claims women have better rights now than under previous governments

In an exclusive interview with WION's Anas Mallick, Pakistan's caretaker information & broadcasting minister Murtaza Solangi spoke about the elections in Pakistan, Pakistan's and Afghanistan's relations, and a lot more. Listen in.

WION speaks to Pakistan's Information Minister Murtaza Solangi

While Pakistan's relations with India remain frosty due to historical and political issues, its ties with its other neighbours, Iran and Afghanistan, are even more complex. Terror groups are retaliating and are coming back at Pakistan with violent payback.

Pakistan: Geo-Economic targets, neighbours and the region

Tensions between Iran and Pakistan have hit a new low. How will things unfold going forward? Pakistan military carried out strikes on Iran's Baloch province. Watch to know more!

Pakistan military carries out strikes on Iran, 9 killed

Islamabad says several terrorists have been killed during the intelligence-based operation named Marg Bar Sarmachar. Tensions between Iran and Pakistan have hit a new low. How will things unfold going forward?

Pakistan-Iran tensions: Afghanistan calls violence 'concerning & alarming' | World News | WION

Thousands of trucks were stranded at the busiest frontier crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan Monday, days after border points were closed to trade in the latest row over document rules for commercial vehicle drivers.

Pakistan-Afghanistan border disputes: Thousands of trucks stranded at Afghan-Pak border

Afghanistan-Pakistan border dispute strands thousands of trucks

afghanistan-0

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

afghanistan 0