The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid. &nbsp;

In a special interview with TOLOnews, the minister also said that whatever happened was not according to the organised plan. &nbsp; &nbsp;

If negotiations for peace had continued between the two Afghan sides and war had ended in the nation, the situation would have been better, said Mujahid. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/work-hard-taliban-to-offer-wheat-in-exchange-of-work-to-reduce-poverty-and-starvation-423598" hreflang="en">Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation</a>

“In my opinion, Afghanistan was damaged by it because if war had stopped and we reached a meaningful negotiation, the situation would have been better and different from now. And the result would have avoided the collapse of institutions and the fleeing of people from the country,” the minister said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

As the path for further discussion has remained open, changes could be expected in the cabinet, Mujahid said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The concerns of some countries regarding some individuals in the government are not acceptable. “We are reiterating again and again, the terms of inclusivity means something like this... If the aim is to include the people, we have already included various ethnicities in the current government, and they are part of the cabinet,” the Taliban minister said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-hail-russian-presidents-plan-to-remove-the-group-from-terror-list-423690" hreflang="en">Taliban hail Russian President's plan to remove the group from terror list</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

For withdrawing financial aid, the minister criticised the US. Mujahid said, the US&nbsp;is also encouraging other countries to withhold resources and not recognise the Taliban government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We know that the (US) is behind it and it persuaded others not to recognise the Islamic Emirate as well,” Mujahid added. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid.

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid. In a special interview with TOLOnews, the minister also said that whatever happened was not according to the organised plan. If negotiations for peace had continued between the two Afghan sides and war had ended in the nation, the situation would have been better, said Mujahid. Also Read: Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation “In my opinion, Afghanistan was damaged by it because if war had stopped and we reached a meaningful negotiation, the situation would have been better and different from now. And the result would have avoided the collapse of institutions and the fleeing of people from the country,” the minister said. As the path for further discussion has remained open, changes could be expected in the cabinet, Mujahid said. The concerns of some countries regarding some individuals in the government are not acceptable. “We are reiterating again and again, the terms of inclusivity means something like this... If the aim is to include the people, we have already included various ethnicities in the current government, and they are part of the cabinet,” the Taliban minister said. Also Read: Taliban hail Russian President's plan to remove the group from terror list For withdrawing financial aid, the minister criticised the US. Mujahid said, the US is also encouraging other countries to withhold resources and not recognise the Taliban government. “We know that the (US) is behind it and it persuaded others not to recognise the Islamic Emirate as well,” Mujahid added. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan government’s collapse was not in nation’s interest, says Taliban's Minister Zabiullah Mujahid

Experts have warned that the Maldives might disappear in the next 100 years, its existence is threatened by rising sea levels.

Maldives might end in 2100, government urges rich nations to meet emissions target

The Taliban have said that not recognising the new government in Afghanistan is benefiting Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K). However, the outfit dismissed concerns that the terrorist group was a threat to Afghanistan.

This comes after ISIS-K claimed responsibility for Friday's Shia mosque explosion in Kandahar in which 47 people were killed and 70 others suffered injuries. The attack follows several other recent attacks against religious institutions in Afghanistan, including last week's attack against the Gozar-e-Sayed Abad Mosque in Kunduz.

While talking to Anadolu Agency, Afghanistan's acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the official recognition of his government and international aid held great importance to the recovery of the country's economy.

The Taliban minister also said the freezing of Afghan foreign reserves by the US violated international law and human rights, Ariana News reported. "The real question is, why was this money blocked? What did the citizens of Afghanistan do?" he asked.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mass-funerals-take-place-in-kandahar-a-day-after-blast-at-shiite-mosque-421343">Also read |&nbsp;Mass funerals take place in Kandahar a day after blast at Shiite mosque</a>

"On the other hand, the US and other countries say that humanitarian aid should be given to Afghanistan and human rights should be respected. But, they leave the Afghan people with a population of about 40 million without basic necessities."

He further added that not "recognizing the new government in Afghanistan benefits Daesh (ISIS-K)."

After Friday's blast, the Taliban had vowed to deploy more forces to protect Shi'ite mosques. Abdul Ghafar Muhammadi, the commander of police in Kandahar province has said that his forces will be working alongside the local volunteers to ensure the security of the mosques.

Meanwhile, ISIS in a statement, said that Shi'ite Muslims are perilous and they will be targeted by them everywhere. Al-Naba, the group's weekly has published the warning, saying that the Shia Muslims will be targeted in their homes and centres. The statement has especially threatened Shia Muslims living in Afghanistan.

From Baghdad to Khorasan, Shi'ite Muslims will be targeted everywhere, ISIS said.

According to Khaama Press, ISIS Khorasan now remains the biggest threat to the peace in Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country.

The Taliban have said that not recognising the new government in Afghanistan is benefiting Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K). However, the outfit dismissed concerns that the terrorist group was a threat to Afghanistan.

The Taliban have said that not recognising the new government in Afghanistan is benefiting Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K). However, the outfit dismissed concerns that the terrorist group was a threat to Afghanistan. This comes after ISIS-K claimed responsibility for Friday's Shia mosque explosion in Kandahar in which 47 people were killed and 70 others suffered injuries. The attack follows several other recent attacks against religious institutions in Afghanistan, including last week's attack against the Gozar-e-Sayed Abad Mosque in Kunduz. While talking to Anadolu Agency, Afghanistan's acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the official recognition of his government and international aid held great importance to the recovery of the country's economy. The Taliban minister also said the freezing of Afghan foreign reserves by the US violated international law and human rights, Ariana News reported. "The real question is, why was this money blocked? What did the citizens of Afghanistan do?" he asked. Also read | Mass funerals take place in Kandahar a day after blast at Shiite mosque "On the other hand, the US and other countries say that humanitarian aid should be given to Afghanistan and human rights should be respected. But, they leave the Afghan people with a population of about 40 million without basic necessities." He further added that not "recognizing the new government in Afghanistan benefits Daesh (ISIS-K)." After Friday's blast, the Taliban had vowed to deploy more forces to protect Shi'ite mosques. Abdul Ghafar Muhammadi, the commander of police in Kandahar province has said that his forces will be working alongside the local volunteers to ensure the security of the mosques. Meanwhile, ISIS in a statement, said that Shi'ite Muslims are perilous and they will be targeted by them everywhere. Al-Naba, the group's weekly has published the warning, saying that the Shia Muslims will be targeted in their homes and centres. The statement has especially threatened Shia Muslims living in Afghanistan. From Baghdad to Khorasan, Shi'ite Muslims will be targeted everywhere, ISIS said. According to Khaama Press, ISIS Khorasan now remains the biggest threat to the peace in Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country.

Non-recognition of govt in Afghanistan is benefitting ISIS-K: Taliban

Pakistan's government and its military seem to have resolved tensions over the latter's choice of the country's new spy master, the development comes after the two institutes were in disagreement over the appointment of new spy chief.

Pakistan government and military disagree on new ISI DG?

Tunisia's President Kais Saied issued a decree appointing a new government on Monday, 11 weeks after he fired the last one in a controversial power grab amid acute economic and political crises.

State television broadcast a swearing-in ceremony of the cabinet headed by Najla Bouden, the North African country's first ever female prime minister.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-against-tunisia-leader-with-government-awaited-419650">Thousands protest against Tunisia leader with government awaited</a>

In her first public speech since her nomination, Bouden said Monday that "the fight against corruption will be the most important aim" of the new government.

She also vowed to "raise living standards" of Tunisians and "restore their faith in the state".

But Saied has significantly pared back the powers of her office and will technically head the administration himself.

The president on July 25 sacked the previous prime minister, suspended parliament and granted himself judicial powers in moves that opponents have termed a coup.&nbsp;

Saied, a former legal academic, has repeatedly criticised the constitution Tunisia adopted in 2014 which brought in a mixed parliamentary-presidential system, three years after a revolution that overthrew veteran dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

The president named Bouden, a geologist, as premier on September 29, more than two months after sacking the administration of Hichem Mechichi and removing lawmakers' immunity.

In a speech following Monday's ceremony, Saied reiterated that his moves were constitutional in light of "imminent peril" facing Tunisia.

He said he had acted to "save the Tunisian state from the clutches of those who lurk at home and abroad, and from those who see their office as booty or as a means to loot public funds".

He also vowed to "cleanse the judiciary".

'Drift from democracy'&nbsp;

Saied, elected on an anti-system ticket in late 2019, seized an array of powers amid a socio-economic crisis aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although his July measures enjoyed significant support from a public tired of political parties seen as self-serving and incompetent, civil society groups have warned of a drift away from democracy.

The new cabinet was announced a day after at least 6,000 people demonstrated in central Tunis against Saied's power grab.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqis-to-elect-new-parliament-amid-deep-crisis-apathy-417813">&nbsp;Iraqis to elect new parliament amid deep crisis, apathy</a>

Many have seen Saied's moves as a blow to the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party that has dominated Tunisia's post-revolution politics, but some demonstrators in Tunis on Sunday also voiced support for Moncef Marzouki, who served as president between 2011 and 2014 and now lives in Paris.

Feminist groups have hailed Bouden's nomination as a step forward for women in Tunisia, seen as a pioneer for women's rights in the Arab world.

But many have questioned how much power she will have given that Saied -- who has long opposed gender equality in inheritance laws -- will have the final say in government decisions.

The 63-year-old premier has little political experience and is not known to have economic expertise.

Tunisia is facing a long-running economic crisis, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, with debt running at over 90 per cent of Gross Domestic Product, runaway inflation and an unemployment rate of over 18 per cent.

Tunisia's President Kais Saied issued a decree appointing a new government on Monday, 11 weeks after he fired the last one in a controversial power grab amid acute economic and political crises.

Tunisia's President Kais Saied issued a decree appointing a new government on Monday, 11 weeks after he fired the last one in a controversial power grab amid acute economic and political crises. State television broadcast a swearing-in ceremony of the cabinet headed by Najla Bouden, the North African country's first ever female prime minister. Also Read | Thousands protest against Tunisia leader with government awaited In her first public speech since her nomination, Bouden said Monday that "the fight against corruption will be the most important aim" of the new government. She also vowed to "raise living standards" of Tunisians and "restore their faith in the state". But Saied has significantly pared back the powers of her office and will technically head the administration himself. The president on July 25 sacked the previous prime minister, suspended parliament and granted himself judicial powers in moves that opponents have termed a coup. Saied, a former legal academic, has repeatedly criticised the constitution Tunisia adopted in 2014 which brought in a mixed parliamentary-presidential system, three years after a revolution that overthrew veteran dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The president named Bouden, a geologist, as premier on September 29, more than two months after sacking the administration of Hichem Mechichi and removing lawmakers' immunity. In a speech following Monday's ceremony, Saied reiterated that his moves were constitutional in light of "imminent peril" facing Tunisia. He said he had acted to "save the Tunisian state from the clutches of those who lurk at home and abroad, and from those who see their office as booty or as a means to loot public funds". He also vowed to "cleanse the judiciary". 'Drift from democracy' Saied, elected on an anti-system ticket in late 2019, seized an array of powers amid a socio-economic crisis aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although his July measures enjoyed significant support from a public tired of political parties seen as self-serving and incompetent, civil society groups have warned of a drift away from democracy. The new cabinet was announced a day after at least 6,000 people demonstrated in central Tunis against Saied's power grab. Also Read | Iraqis to elect new parliament amid deep crisis, apathy Many have seen Saied's moves as a blow to the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party that has dominated Tunisia's post-revolution politics, but some demonstrators in Tunis on Sunday also voiced support for Moncef Marzouki, who served as president between 2011 and 2014 and now lives in Paris. Feminist groups have hailed Bouden's nomination as a step forward for women in Tunisia, seen as a pioneer for women's rights in the Arab world. But many have questioned how much power she will have given that Saied -- who has long opposed gender equality in inheritance laws -- will have the final say in government decisions. The 63-year-old premier has little political experience and is not known to have economic expertise. Tunisia is facing a long-running economic crisis, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, with debt running at over 90 per cent of Gross Domestic Product, runaway inflation and an unemployment rate of over 18 per cent.

Tunisia president appoints new government nearly 3 months after power grab

Dr Subhash Chandra, the founder of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), spoke to Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on the most popular news show DNA on Wednesday about ZEEL and Invesco.

Dr Subhash Chandra, slamming Invesco and the individuals behind it and issuing orders to the investor, stated, "Invesco is trying to take over ZEEL by illegal means. This is very wrong. I don't know if China is trying to do this, but this won't happen at any cost. "

"The government of this country and the laws of this nation will never let the takeover of ZEEL happen by Invesco," Dr Chandra added.

Dr Subhash Chandra broke down as he described how he devoted his blood and sweat to create a family channel such as Zee TV.&nbsp;

Some media houses have been publishing baseless and hollow reports in the last few days, especially after the mega-merger announcement between ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), to fight a losing battle against ZEEL, and especially against Punit Goenka, who will continue as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ZEEL.&nbsp;

The following are the most important takeaways from Dr Subhash Chandra's interview with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on DNA:&nbsp;

<ol>
	<li>Invesco does not own ZEEL; its true owners are its 250000 shareholders, and the group's true owners are its 900 million Indian viewers. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Zee was launched at a time when there was only Doordarshan in India. So there was a gap to be filled, which ZEE did. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A channel-like Zee TV can not be created by spending even Rs 10 lakh crore. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Invesco should behave like a shareholder, not the owner. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Invesco deals in dollars, we deal in rupees. This is a clear-cut case of company takeover in a clandestine manner, which is not legal. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Only the Zee network provides content which everyone can watch with their families.</li>
	<li>I don’t think the takeover will happen. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>If you want to takeover, offer 75% to the shareholders. We will welcome that. But don’t try to do it by illegal means. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>I trust the people of this country will not let Zee down. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>There is definitely someone in India who is backing Invesco. I do not want to make a guess on that. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>We have made mistakes along the way and I have paid for it. But I have welcomed criticism positively. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>It was just meant to be, that’s how Zee happened. People gave Zee meaning. I can not repeat the feat today, even if I wanted to. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Though Sony is a foreign company, they have offered a good deal. Their intent is good. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>This is a clearcut case of company takeover in a clandestine manner. Invesco's trying to take control of the company by exploiting legal loopholes.</li>
</ol>

Dr Subhash Chandra, the founder of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), spoke to Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on the most popular news show DNA on Wednesday about ZEEL and Invesco.

Dr Subhash Chandra, the founder of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), spoke to Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on the most popular news show DNA on Wednesday about ZEEL and Invesco. Dr Subhash Chandra, slamming Invesco and the individuals behind it and issuing orders to the investor, stated, "Invesco is trying to take over ZEEL by illegal means. This is very wrong. I don't know if China is trying to do this, but this won't happen at any cost. " "The government of this country and the laws of this nation will never let the takeover of ZEEL happen by Invesco," Dr Chandra added. Dr Subhash Chandra broke down as he described how he devoted his blood and sweat to create a family channel such as Zee TV. Some media houses have been publishing baseless and hollow reports in the last few days, especially after the mega-merger announcement between ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), to fight a losing battle against ZEEL, and especially against Punit Goenka, who will continue as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ZEEL. The following are the most important takeaways from Dr Subhash Chandra's interview with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on DNA: Invesco does not own ZEEL; its true owners are its 250000 shareholders, and the group's true owners are its 900 million Indian viewers. Zee was launched at a time when there was only Doordarshan in India. So there was a gap to be filled, which ZEE did. A channel-like Zee TV can not be created by spending even Rs 10 lakh crore. Invesco should behave like a shareholder, not the owner. Invesco deals in dollars, we deal in rupees. This is a clear-cut case of company takeover in a clandestine manner, which is not legal. Only the Zee network provides content which everyone can watch with their families. I don’t think the takeover will happen. If you want to takeover, offer 75% to the shareholders. We will welcome that. But don’t try to do it by illegal means. I trust the people of this country will not let Zee down. There is definitely someone in India who is backing Invesco. I do not want to make a guess on that. We have made mistakes along the way and I have paid for it. But I have welcomed criticism positively. It was just meant to be, that’s how Zee happened. People gave Zee meaning. I can not repeat the feat today, even if I wanted to. Though Sony is a foreign company, they have offered a good deal. Their intent is good. This is a clearcut case of company takeover in a clandestine manner. Invesco's trying to take control of the company by exploiting legal loopholes.

India and its laws won't let Invesco illegally take over ZEEL: Dr Subhash Chandra

To address environmental issues in the national capital, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday launched an advanced Green War Room and Green App that will look into the problems pertaining to 10 kinds of pollution throughout the winter season.

"People of Delhi can register complaints regarding 10 kinds of pollution via Green Delhi App throughout this winter season (ie from October to February). Our 21 member team will work actively during this time," he said while launching the 24X7 Green War Room.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-jal-jeevan-mission-app-rashtriya-jal-jeevan-kosh-today-417578">PM Modi launches Jal Jeevan Mission app, Rashtriya Jal Jeevan Kosh today</a>

The room is permanent which will look into the problem related to waste, bio-mass burning, industrial pollution, construction or demolition related pollution, waste on roads, pollution emitting vehicles, noise pollution, among others, Rai added.

"Green War Room is a joint platform of 27 departments of Delhi and Central government and the Municipal Corporation. Complaints received via Green Delhi App are resolved with the help of the joint action plan of these departments. Every department will have a nodal point and nearly 2,500 people have been trained in batches for the proper implementation of the plan," he said.

The Green Delhi App was launched in 2020 to enable Delhi residents to register complaints about violations of anti-pollution guidelines. However, the app was only available on Android phones then.

"From now on, the app is also available for iOS users," Rai said, adding that the Delhi government had received 27,000 complaints, out of which over 23,000 have already been resolved.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-index-india-worlds-second-most-polluted-country-415692">Air Quality Index: India world’s second most polluted country</a>

"The 150 pollution hotspots that we have come to know about via the app will be continuously monitored in this room," he said.

A team of 70 Green Marshals have been set up who will work as a task force to ensure whether the registered complaints have actually been solved or not.

The minister also said that the process for recruitment of 50 engineers has already been started by Delhi Pollution Control Committee to fill vacancies.

To address environmental issues in the national capital, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday launched an advanced Green War Room and Green App that will look into the problems pertaining to 10 kinds of pollution throughout the winter season.

To address environmental issues in the national capital, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday launched an advanced Green War Room and Green App that will look into the problems pertaining to 10 kinds of pollution throughout the winter season. "People of Delhi can register complaints regarding 10 kinds of pollution via Green Delhi App throughout this winter season (ie from October to February). Our 21 member team will work actively during this time," he said while launching the 24X7 Green War Room. Also Read | PM Modi launches Jal Jeevan Mission app, Rashtriya Jal Jeevan Kosh today The room is permanent which will look into the problem related to waste, bio-mass burning, industrial pollution, construction or demolition related pollution, waste on roads, pollution emitting vehicles, noise pollution, among others, Rai added. "Green War Room is a joint platform of 27 departments of Delhi and Central government and the Municipal Corporation. Complaints received via Green Delhi App are resolved with the help of the joint action plan of these departments. Every department will have a nodal point and nearly 2,500 people have been trained in batches for the proper implementation of the plan," he said. The Green Delhi App was launched in 2020 to enable Delhi residents to register complaints about violations of anti-pollution guidelines. However, the app was only available on Android phones then. "From now on, the app is also available for iOS users," Rai said, adding that the Delhi government had received 27,000 complaints, out of which over 23,000 have already been resolved. Also read | Air Quality Index: India world’s second most polluted country "The 150 pollution hotspots that we have come to know about via the app will be continuously monitored in this room," he said. A team of 70 Green Marshals have been set up who will work as a task force to ensure whether the registered complaints have actually been solved or not. The minister also said that the process for recruitment of 50 engineers has already been started by Delhi Pollution Control Committee to fill vacancies.

Delhi government launches advanced Green War Room app to address 10 kinds of pollution

Japan's parliament votes Monday to approve Fumio Kishida as the country's next prime minister, with the new leader expected to announce a cabinet including both holdovers and fresh faces.

The soft-spoken scion of a Hiroshima political family, Kishida beat popular vaccine chief Taro Kono to win leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party last week.

The victory effectively ensures he will win a vote later Monday in parliament, where the LDP's ruling coalition holds a commanding majority, and become leader of the world's third largest economy.

Speaking before the vote Monday morning, Kishida said he was ready for the top job.

"I think it will be a new start in its true sense," he told reporters.

"I want to take on challenges with a strong will and firm resolve to face the future."

Kishida is widely considered a safe pair of hands, who commands support from his own faction within the LDP and is not expected to veer significantly from the government's existing policies.

His election came after former prime minister Yoshihide Suga, who submitted his resignation on Monday morning, announced he would not stand for the LDP leadership after just one year in office.

Kishida will unveil his new cabinet on Monday afternoon, but details reported in local media suggested he would keep on several ministers in key portfolios.

Both Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi will retain their jobs, local media reported.

Motegi is a Harvard-educated political veteran who has taken the lead in negotiating key trade deals, while Kishi is the brother of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

The finance portfolio will go to Shunichi Suzuki, who is replacing his own brother-in-law Taro Aso.

Suzuki, 68, is also a veteran politician and the son of a former prime minister. He has served in government before, holding both the Olympic minister and environment minister posts.

- Pandemic recovery, election ahead -

The cabinet will reportedly include three women, among them his one-time rival for the leadership Seiko Noda, who will become minister in charge of addressing Japan's declining birthrate.

The posts of vaccine minister and digital minister will also be held by women, with several members of the cabinet appointed to their first ministerial post.

Kishida faces a raft of challenges, from trying to steer a post-pandemic economic recovery to confronting the military threats posed by North Korea and China.

He will also be leading the LDP in general elections that must happen by November.

Local media reported Monday that Kishida is now expected to hold the vote on October 31, a few weeks earlier than expected.

The ruling party and its coalition party are widely expected to retain power, but could be vulnerable to losing some seats with the public unhappy about the government's response to the coronavirus.

Suga's government saw its approval ratings slump as it struggled to tackle waves of infection, including a record virus spike over the summer while the Olympics were being held.

Kishida's leadership campaign emphasised his plans to correct government missteps on the pandemic, including a pledge to unleash new economic stimulus.

Much of Japan has been under virus emergency measures for a large part of the year, with the restrictions finally lifting last week as new infections decline.

Around 60 per cent of the population is now vaccinated, but there are concerns that the country's healthcare system could easily become overwhelmed again in a new virus wave. 
&nbsp;

Japan's parliament votes Monday to approve Fumio Kishida as the country's next prime minister, with the new leader expected to announce a cabinet including both holdovers and fresh faces.

Japan's parliament votes Monday to approve Fumio Kishida as the country's next prime minister, with the new leader expected to announce a cabinet including both holdovers and fresh faces. The soft-spoken scion of a Hiroshima political family, Kishida beat popular vaccine chief Taro Kono to win leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party last week. The victory effectively ensures he will win a vote later Monday in parliament, where the LDP's ruling coalition holds a commanding majority, and become leader of the world's third largest economy. Speaking before the vote Monday morning, Kishida said he was ready for the top job. "I think it will be a new start in its true sense," he told reporters. "I want to take on challenges with a strong will and firm resolve to face the future." Kishida is widely considered a safe pair of hands, who commands support from his own faction within the LDP and is not expected to veer significantly from the government's existing policies. His election came after former prime minister Yoshihide Suga, who submitted his resignation on Monday morning, announced he would not stand for the LDP leadership after just one year in office. Kishida will unveil his new cabinet on Monday afternoon, but details reported in local media suggested he would keep on several ministers in key portfolios. Both Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi will retain their jobs, local media reported. Motegi is a Harvard-educated political veteran who has taken the lead in negotiating key trade deals, while Kishi is the brother of former prime minister Shinzo Abe. The finance portfolio will go to Shunichi Suzuki, who is replacing his own brother-in-law Taro Aso. Suzuki, 68, is also a veteran politician and the son of a former prime minister. He has served in government before, holding both the Olympic minister and environment minister posts. - Pandemic recovery, election ahead - The cabinet will reportedly include three women, among them his one-time rival for the leadership Seiko Noda, who will become minister in charge of addressing Japan's declining birthrate. The posts of vaccine minister and digital minister will also be held by women, with several members of the cabinet appointed to their first ministerial post. Kishida faces a raft of challenges, from trying to steer a post-pandemic economic recovery to confronting the military threats posed by North Korea and China. He will also be leading the LDP in general elections that must happen by November. Local media reported Monday that Kishida is now expected to hold the vote on October 31, a few weeks earlier than expected. The ruling party and its coalition party are widely expected to retain power, but could be vulnerable to losing some seats with the public unhappy about the government's response to the coronavirus. Suga's government saw its approval ratings slump as it struggled to tackle waves of infection, including a record virus spike over the summer while the Olympics were being held. Kishida's leadership campaign emphasised his plans to correct government missteps on the pandemic, including a pledge to unleash new economic stimulus. Much of Japan has been under virus emergency measures for a large part of the year, with the restrictions finally lifting last week as new infections decline. Around 60 per cent of the population is now vaccinated, but there are concerns that the country's healthcare system could easily become overwhelmed again in a new virus wave.

Fumio Kishida to be approved Japan's next PM

US President Joe Biden signed the government funding bill on Thursday, just hours after congressional lawmakers rushed to pass the measure before the shutdown deadline.

US President Joe Biden signed the government funding bill on Thursday, just hours after congressional lawmakers rushed to pass the measure before the shutdown deadline. Hours ahead of the midnight deadline, the House of Representatives voted to keep the lights on for another two months with a resolution that had already advanced comfortably from the Senate, with opposition Republicans supporting the ruling Democrats in both chambers. Biden signed the bill shortly after. "This is a good outcome, one I'm happy we are getting done," Chuck Schumer, the top Democratic senator, told colleagues on the chamber floor ahead of both votes, which were never in serious doubt. "With so many things to take care of here in Washington, the last thing the American people need is for the government to grind to a halt," he said. Also read | UK fuel industry denies government claims crisis is easing The House voted 254-175 to advance the measure. Just hours earlier, the Senate voted 65-35, in a display of bipartisanship in both chambers. The Senate-passed bipartisan infrastructure bill is due for a crucial vote in the House on Thursday that appears to have no chance of passing, with the Democrats' left-wing in open revolt. The progressives do not trust that centrists, who object to the size of the larger spending package, will honour an agreement to pass the legislation once the infrastructure is across the line. West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin inflamed tensions with a statement arguing that trillions of dollars in extra spending was "fiscal insanity," solidifying opposition to the smaller infrastructure bill. He told reporters Thursday that he was unwilling to go above $1.5 trillion. Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that she planned to forge ahead, while White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters, "We're working towards winning a vote tonight. We have several hours left in the day."

US government shutdown averted hours before deadline as Biden signs bill

In June, Amazon declared that it will no longer test employees for cannabis use in the majority of positions.

The corporation announced today that it is taking a step further and has begun lobbying the US government to make marijuana legal across the country.

Amazon also announced that it will reinstate the eligibility of terminated employees and candidates who failed drug tests throughout the employment process.

Beth Galetti, Amazon's head of human resources, outlined three reasons for the changes in a blog post.

To begin with, First, the jumble of conflicting city and state marijuana regulations makes it impossible for huge corporations to develop a sensible policy. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-to-test-if-cannabis-based-mouth-spray-can-treat-brain-tumours-402684">Also read | Researchers to test if cannabis-based mouth spray can treat brain tumours</a>

Second, the corporation is aware that persons of colour have been disproportionately harmed by drug testing.&nbsp;

But it's the last and third reason she gives that may be the most explaining: "Amazon's rapid expansion means we're always seeking for talented new team members, and we've found that removing pre-employment cannabis testing allows us to increase our application pool," Galetti wrote.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-smokes-weed-during-podcast-tesla-accountant-resigns-as-stocks-crash-164307">Also read | Musk smokes weed during podcast; Tesla accountant resigns as stocks crash</a>

According to Business Insider, Amazon senior VP of human resources Beth Galetti remarked, "We've discovered that eliminating pre-employment cannabis testing allows us to widen our application pool."

According to records obtained by Insider in July, Amazon spent $5 million on lobbying in the second quarter. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-anti-doping-agency-to-review-cannabis-ban-for-athletes-413132">Also read | World Anti-Doping Agency to review cannabis ban for athletes</a>

Amazon just joined a different hiring campaign earlier this month, revealing that it would begin subsidising college tuition for the majority of its 750,00 employees in January, with support commencing 90 days after hire at authorised colleges.

GED and ESL competence certifications will also be covered under the Career Choice programme.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In June, Amazon declared that it will no longer test employees for cannabis use in the majority of positions. The corporation announced today that it is taking a step further and has begun lobbying the US government to make marijuana legal across the country.

In June, Amazon declared that it will no longer test employees for cannabis use in the majority of positions. The corporation announced today that it is taking a step further and has begun lobbying the US government to make marijuana legal across the country. Amazon also announced that it will reinstate the eligibility of terminated employees and candidates who failed drug tests throughout the employment process. Beth Galetti, Amazon's head of human resources, outlined three reasons for the changes in a blog post. To begin with, First, the jumble of conflicting city and state marijuana regulations makes it impossible for huge corporations to develop a sensible policy. Also read | Researchers to test if cannabis-based mouth spray can treat brain tumours Second, the corporation is aware that persons of colour have been disproportionately harmed by drug testing. But it's the last and third reason she gives that may be the most explaining: "Amazon's rapid expansion means we're always seeking for talented new team members, and we've found that removing pre-employment cannabis testing allows us to increase our application pool," Galetti wrote. Also read | Musk smokes weed during podcast; Tesla accountant resigns as stocks crash According to Business Insider, Amazon senior VP of human resources Beth Galetti remarked, "We've discovered that eliminating pre-employment cannabis testing allows us to widen our application pool." According to records obtained by Insider in July, Amazon spent $5 million on lobbying in the second quarter. Also read | World Anti-Doping Agency to review cannabis ban for athletes Amazon just joined a different hiring campaign earlier this month, revealing that it would begin subsidising college tuition for the majority of its 750,00 employees in January, with support commencing 90 days after hire at authorised colleges. GED and ESL competence certifications will also be covered under the Career Choice programme. (With inputs from agencies)

Legalising weed: Here's why Amazon is lobbying the US government

Before heading to Qatar for talks on Sunday for discussing future evacuations from Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Saturday that France will not have any relationship with newly-formed Taliban government as they are lying. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On France 5 TV, Le Drian said, "They said they would let some foreigners and Afghans leave freely and (talked) of an inclusive and representative government, but they are lying." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The minister added, "France refuses to recognise or have any type of relationship with this government. We want actions from the Taliban and they will need some economic breathing space and international relations. It's up to them." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | Afghanistan: Burqa clad women march with Taliban flag

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Till now, France has evacuated about 3,000 people and had held talks with the Taliban to enable those departures. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday. He expressed fears that hardline Islamists' return to power in Afghanistan may embolden jihaidists in Sahel region of Africa. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/intelligence-chiefs-from-russia-china-central-asia-meet-in-pakistan-to-discuss-afghanistan-412542" hreflang="en">Intelligence chiefs from Russia, China &amp; central Asia meet in Pakistan to discuss Afghanistan</a>

"We must maintain a dialogue with the Taliban, where we affirm our principles directly -- a dialogue with a feeling of solidarity with the Afghan people," he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Our duty is to extend our solidarity to a people who suffer greatly, where millions and millions risk dying of hunger," added the secretary-general. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He said that the world must avoid an "economic collapse" in Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Before heading to Qatar for talks on Sunday for discussing future evacuations from Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Saturday that France will not have any relationship with newly-formed Taliban government as they are lying.

Before heading to Qatar for talks on Sunday for discussing future evacuations from Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Saturday that France will not have any relationship with newly-formed Taliban government as they are lying. On France 5 TV, Le Drian said, "They said they would let some foreigners and Afghans leave freely and (talked) of an inclusive and representative government, but they are lying." The minister added, "France refuses to recognise or have any type of relationship with this government. We want actions from the Taliban and they will need some economic breathing space and international relations. It's up to them." Watch | Afghanistan: Burqa clad women march with Taliban flag × Till now, France has evacuated about 3,000 people and had held talks with the Taliban to enable those departures. Earlier, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday. He expressed fears that hardline Islamists' return to power in Afghanistan may embolden jihaidists in Sahel region of Africa. Also Read: Intelligence chiefs from Russia, China & central Asia meet in Pakistan to discuss Afghanistan "We must maintain a dialogue with the Taliban, where we affirm our principles directly -- a dialogue with a feeling of solidarity with the Afghan people," he said. "Our duty is to extend our solidarity to a people who suffer greatly, where millions and millions risk dying of hunger," added the secretary-general. He said that the world must avoid an "economic collapse" in Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

France to not have any relationship with Taliban government: Foreign Minister Le Drian

Beijing said Wednesday it welcomed the end of "three weeks of anarchy" in Afghanistan with the establishment of a new interim government in Kabul, calling on the Taliban to restore order in the country.

The Islamists seized control of Afghanistan as US troops withdrew last month and have set up a new administration that started work Wednesday.

Despite previous promises that their rule would be inclusive, the government is drawn exclusively from loyalist ranks with established hardliners in all key posts and no women.

China has been scathing about the American withdrawal, which it criticised as ill-planned and hasty. On Wednesday it said the new government would help bring stability.

"China attaches great importance to the announcement by the Taliban of the establishment of an interim government and some important personnel arrangements," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin at a press briefing.

"This has ended more than three weeks of anarchy in Afghanistan and is a necessary step to restore order and rebuild the country."

While much of the world has adopted a wait-and-see approach to engagement with the Taliban, China has already said it is ready to build friendly relations with the group following their takeover.

Analysts have said a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would open economic opportunities for China and allow for expansion of its massive overseas infrastructure drive, the Belt and Road Initiative.

The Taliban may also see China as a crucial source of economic support and potentially a key ally.

Last week a Taliban spokesman said Beijing had promised them increased aid and Covid-19 assistance.

However, Beijing is wary of the group providing support to Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists looking to infiltrate its sensitive border region of Xinjiang.

Wang said Wednesday that China would "not interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs", but hoped the Taliban would "pursue moderate and steady domestic and foreign policies, resolutely crack down on all kinds of terrorist forces, and get along well with all countries, especially neighbouring countries".

Beijing said Wednesday it welcomed the end of "three weeks of anarchy" in Afghanistan with the establishment of a new interim government in Kabul, calling on the Taliban to restore order in the country.

Beijing said Wednesday it welcomed the end of "three weeks of anarchy" in Afghanistan with the establishment of a new interim government in Kabul, calling on the Taliban to restore order in the country. The Islamists seized control of Afghanistan as US troops withdrew last month and have set up a new administration that started work Wednesday. Despite previous promises that their rule would be inclusive, the government is drawn exclusively from loyalist ranks with established hardliners in all key posts and no women. China has been scathing about the American withdrawal, which it criticised as ill-planned and hasty. On Wednesday it said the new government would help bring stability. "China attaches great importance to the announcement by the Taliban of the establishment of an interim government and some important personnel arrangements," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin at a press briefing. "This has ended more than three weeks of anarchy in Afghanistan and is a necessary step to restore order and rebuild the country." While much of the world has adopted a wait-and-see approach to engagement with the Taliban, China has already said it is ready to build friendly relations with the group following their takeover. Analysts have said a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would open economic opportunities for China and allow for expansion of its massive overseas infrastructure drive, the Belt and Road Initiative. The Taliban may also see China as a crucial source of economic support and potentially a key ally. Last week a Taliban spokesman said Beijing had promised them increased aid and Covid-19 assistance. However, Beijing is wary of the group providing support to Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists looking to infiltrate its sensitive border region of Xinjiang. Wang said Wednesday that China would "not interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs", but hoped the Taliban would "pursue moderate and steady domestic and foreign policies, resolutely crack down on all kinds of terrorist forces, and get along well with all countries, especially neighbouring countries".

China welcomes 'end of anarchy' with new Taliban government 

Afghanistan attained a unique status in the world yesterday (September 7). It is the only country in the world that is governed by UN-designated terrorists and yet able to get recognition of countries like China, Pakistan, and Qatar to name a few. A government that showcases suicide bombs and various other tools of terror in its victory parade is in power and the democracy is shedding tears of blood. It is pertinent to analyse Taliban in “The Graveyard of many Empires”, their office bearers, and their intentions to govern the country in the light of their past deeds.&nbsp;

<h2>Ultra-fanatic regime</h2>

Taliban is not different from the fanatic Islamic rulers of early medieval times. They have already issued directives that entire administration of the country will be run as per fanatic Sharia law where all the human rights are non-existent &amp; a patriarchal society governs the power centre. Judiciary becomes a puppet to the religious leaders, and anyone can be killed on the smallest doubt. Their interpretation of Islam is ultra-fanatic and is beyond any explanation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-government-lists-agenda-on-sharia-law-media-quality-foreign-policy-411556">Taliban government lists agenda on Sharia law, media quality &amp; foreign policy</a>

During Taliban 1.0, we saw the atrocities where they castrated the serving president and hanged him from a lamp post after trying him in roadside kangaroo court.&nbsp;

Now these courts will be all over Afghanistan and anyone who had been against Taliban in the past will be punished as per their version of Sharia law. Certainly, Afghanistan has gone ten centuries back.&nbsp;

<h2>A government full of terrorists</h2>

Today Afghanistan has a government where the supreme leader, prime minister, deputy prime minister, home minister, defence minister and almost 70% of the cabinet are designated as terrorists with a total combined reward of over 35 million USD on their heads. Their home minister Sirajuddin Haqqani himself carries a bounty of 10 million USD alone. Information and Propaganda Minister Khairullah has been named as one of the most dangerous terrorists by FBI &amp; several others have been involved in major terror activities worldwide.

It is a big question that will these terrorists be able to govern a country? &nbsp;It is obvious that they will continue supporting terror activities worldwide even if they do not get involved themselves and it is a big challenge for the world.&nbsp;

<h2>Rights of minorities, intellectuals, women &amp; non-Taliban people</h2>

Taliban has already made it clear that the government will not be a democratic one and anyone who is a minority, women or not associated with Taliban will not be included in the government.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-government-sirajuddin-haqqani-on-fbi-wanted-list-other-key-members-on-un-blacklist-411531">Taliban government: Sirajuddin Haqqani on FBI wanted list, other key members on UN blacklist</a>

As per their version of Sharia, any minority can be termed un-Islamic anytime and thus can be eliminated. Similarly, women are considered an object like a melon (As mentioned by one of their ministers) and are to be treated like an object. Anyone who is not associated with Taliban is considered their enemy.

Education has its own importance and It is a universal truth that a country grows by its talent &amp; its intellectuals, but new Taliban education minister clearly said that there is no need for higher education for Afghanistan people because even all its leaders have been the students of seminaries and are governing the country.&nbsp;

This clearly reflects that there will be no place for scientists, educationists, economists &amp; various other experts in the new Afghanistan. During the Taliban rule, they will either be killed or migrate to some other country.

<h2>Drug Cartels</h2>

Prior to takeover of Afghanistan, almost 40% of the total income of Taliban used to come from Opium and other drug trade. Afghanistan is known to produce 85% of the heroin in the world. Now imagine a country where economists are killed, and treasury is empty. Government is spending huge budgets on arms and ammunition and there is no legitimate source of income.

In such situation, Taliban will surely take up drug trade as a national industry especially when they are in power now. In a country where government itself runs drug cartels, we can imagine the future of its progenies and neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

<h2>Impact on Industrial Growth and development</h2>

Last 15 years when there was an inclusive government in Afghanistan have been a better period and many countries came forward to help Afghan people with various infrastructure projects, healthcare, Industrial projects, hygiene, sanitation, water supplies and education but with a government full of fanatics and terrorists, it is highly unlikely that any country will invest in Afghanistan now.

With over 82% of its population staying below poverty line and per capita GDP is below 1.5 USD per day, future is very much in dark. Although, some experts said that since Afghanistan has mineral wealth, countries like China may come and set up exploration projects but, in a country, where a suicide bomber can explode himself anywhere and even locals are not safe, security of external investment is going to be a challenge. During the new Taliban rule, all the progress in this regard is likely to be reversed.&nbsp;

Taliban has come to power by force and are struggling to get legitimacy, but the million-dollar question is “Are they fit to govern a country?” or “Will they be able to provide better life to their citizens?”&nbsp;

Seeing their composition and attitude, answer is a clear no. World is seeing that Afghanistan is slowly plunging into dark once again and it’s the people of the hill country who will be the sufferer now.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan attained a unique status in the world yesterday (September 7). It is the only country in the world that is governed by UN-designated terrorists and yet able to get recognition of countries like China, Pakistan, and Qatar to name a few.

Afghanistan attained a unique status in the world yesterday (September 7). It is the only country in the world that is governed by UN-designated terrorists and yet able to get recognition of countries like China, Pakistan, and Qatar to name a few. A government that showcases suicide bombs and various other tools of terror in its victory parade is in power and the democracy is shedding tears of blood. It is pertinent to analyse Taliban in “The Graveyard of many Empires”, their office bearers, and their intentions to govern the country in the light of their past deeds. Ultra-fanatic regime Taliban is not different from the fanatic Islamic rulers of early medieval times. They have already issued directives that entire administration of the country will be run as per fanatic Sharia law where all the human rights are non-existent & a patriarchal society governs the power centre. Judiciary becomes a puppet to the religious leaders, and anyone can be killed on the smallest doubt. Their interpretation of Islam is ultra-fanatic and is beyond any explanation. Also Read | Taliban government lists agenda on Sharia law, media quality & foreign policy During Taliban 1.0, we saw the atrocities where they castrated the serving president and hanged him from a lamp post after trying him in roadside kangaroo court. Now these courts will be all over Afghanistan and anyone who had been against Taliban in the past will be punished as per their version of Sharia law. Certainly, Afghanistan has gone ten centuries back. A government full of terrorists Today Afghanistan has a government where the supreme leader, prime minister, deputy prime minister, home minister, defence minister and almost 70% of the cabinet are designated as terrorists with a total combined reward of over 35 million USD on their heads. Their home minister Sirajuddin Haqqani himself carries a bounty of 10 million USD alone. Information and Propaganda Minister Khairullah has been named as one of the most dangerous terrorists by FBI & several others have been involved in major terror activities worldwide. It is a big question that will these terrorists be able to govern a country? It is obvious that they will continue supporting terror activities worldwide even if they do not get involved themselves and it is a big challenge for the world. Rights of minorities, intellectuals, women & non-Taliban people Taliban has already made it clear that the government will not be a democratic one and anyone who is a minority, women or not associated with Taliban will not be included in the government. Also Read | Taliban government: Sirajuddin Haqqani on FBI wanted list, other key members on UN blacklist As per their version of Sharia, any minority can be termed un-Islamic anytime and thus can be eliminated. Similarly, women are considered an object like a melon (As mentioned by one of their ministers) and are to be treated like an object. Anyone who is not associated with Taliban is considered their enemy. Education has its own importance and It is a universal truth that a country grows by its talent & its intellectuals, but new Taliban education minister clearly said that there is no need for higher education for Afghanistan people because even all its leaders have been the students of seminaries and are governing the country. This clearly reflects that there will be no place for scientists, educationists, economists & various other experts in the new Afghanistan. During the Taliban rule, they will either be killed or migrate to some other country. Drug Cartels Prior to takeover of Afghanistan, almost 40% of the total income of Taliban used to come from Opium and other drug trade. Afghanistan is known to produce 85% of the heroin in the world. Now imagine a country where economists are killed, and treasury is empty. Government is spending huge budgets on arms and ammunition and there is no legitimate source of income. In such situation, Taliban will surely take up drug trade as a national industry especially when they are in power now. In a country where government itself runs drug cartels, we can imagine the future of its progenies and neighbouring countries. Impact on Industrial Growth and development Last 15 years when there was an inclusive government in Afghanistan have been a better period and many countries came forward to help Afghan people with various infrastructure projects, healthcare, Industrial projects, hygiene, sanitation, water supplies and education but with a government full of fanatics and terrorists, it is highly unlikely that any country will invest in Afghanistan now. With over 82% of its population staying below poverty line and per capita GDP is below 1.5 USD per day, future is very much in dark. Although, some experts said that since Afghanistan has mineral wealth, countries like China may come and set up exploration projects but, in a country, where a suicide bomber can explode himself anywhere and even locals are not safe, security of external investment is going to be a challenge. During the new Taliban rule, all the progress in this regard is likely to be reversed. Taliban has come to power by force and are struggling to get legitimacy, but the million-dollar question is “Are they fit to govern a country?” or “Will they be able to provide better life to their citizens?” Seeing their composition and attitude, answer is a clear no. World is seeing that Afghanistan is slowly plunging into dark once again and it’s the people of the hill country who will be the sufferer now. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Can a government led by terrorists govern Afghanistan?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that the&nbsp;country and the international community expects the Taliban to form an inclusive government with representations from different communities and interests.

At a news conference,&nbsp;Blinken said,&nbsp;"As we've said and as countries around the world have said, there is an expectation that any government that emerges now will have some real inclusivity, and that it will have non-Talibs in it, who are representative of different communities and different interests in Afghanistan."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Western nations plan to dump Afghan refugees in Asia&nbsp;

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After the takeover of Afghanistan&nbsp;on August 15, the Taliban is expected to announce the formation of the new government.

The secretary of state said, "We will see what, in fact, emerges, but I have to tell you that as important as what the government looks like is, more important still is what any government does. And that's what we're really looking at. We're looking at what actions, what policies any new Afghan government pursues. That's what matters the most."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/911-attacks-us-president-moves-to-declassify-documents-as-20th-anniversary-approaches-410579" hreflang="en">9/11 attacks: US president moves to declassify documents as 20th anniversary approaches</a>

The expectation is to see inclusivity in government, but ultimately the expectation is to see a government that makes good on commitments that the Taliban have made, particularly in freedom of travel, not allowing Afghanistan to be used as a launching ground for terrorism directed at the US or any of the allies and partners, upholding the basic rights of the Afghan people, including women and minorities, and not engaging in reprisals, the official added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that the country and the international community expects the Taliban to form an inclusive government with representations from different communities and interests.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that the country and the international community expects the Taliban to form an inclusive government with representations from different communities and interests. At a news conference, Blinken said, "As we've said and as countries around the world have said, there is an expectation that any government that emerges now will have some real inclusivity, and that it will have non-Talibs in it, who are representative of different communities and different interests in Afghanistan." Watch | Gravitas: Western nations plan to dump Afghan refugees in Asia × After the takeover of Afghanistan on August 15, the Taliban is expected to announce the formation of the new government. The secretary of state said, "We will see what, in fact, emerges, but I have to tell you that as important as what the government looks like is, more important still is what any government does. And that's what we're really looking at. We're looking at what actions, what policies any new Afghan government pursues. That's what matters the most." Also Read | 9/11 attacks: US president moves to declassify documents as 20th anniversary approaches The expectation is to see inclusivity in government, but ultimately the expectation is to see a government that makes good on commitments that the Taliban have made, particularly in freedom of travel, not allowing Afghanistan to be used as a launching ground for terrorism directed at the US or any of the allies and partners, upholding the basic rights of the Afghan people, including women and minorities, and not engaging in reprisals, the official added. (With inputs from agencies)

Expect Taliban to form inclusive government in Afghanistan, says Blinken  

Google has temporarily locked down an unspecified number of Afghan government email accounts, according to a person familiar with the matter, as fears grow over the digital paper trail left by former officials and their international partners.

In the weeks since the Taliban's swift takeover of Afghanistan from a US-backed government, reports have highlighted how biometric&nbsp;and Afghan payroll databases might be exploited by the new rulers to hunt their enemies.

In a statement on Friday, Alphabet Inc's Google stopped short of confirming that Afghan government accounts were being locked down, saying that the company was monitoring the situation in Afghanistan and "taking temporary actions to secure relevant accounts."

Watch | Afghanistan: Armed Fighters battle Taliban in Panjshir valley

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One employee of the former government has told Reuters, the Taliban are seeking to acquire former officials' emails. 
Late last month, the employee said that the Taliban had asked him to preserve the data held on the servers of the ministry he used to work for.

"If I do so, then they will get access to the data and official communications of the previous ministry leadership," the employee said.

The employee said he did not comply and has since gone into hiding. Reuters is not identifying the man or his former ministry out of concern for his safety.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/expect-taliban-to-form-inclusive-government-in-afghanistan-says-blinken-410604" hreflang="en">Expect Taliban to form inclusive government in Afghanistan, says&nbsp;Blinken &nbsp;</a>

Publicly available mail exchanger records show that some two dozen Afghan government bodies used Google's servers to handle official emails, including the ministries of finance, industry, higher education, and mines.&nbsp;Afghanistan's office of presidential protocol also used Google, according to the records, as did some local government bodies.

Commandeering government databases and emails could provide information about employees of the former administration, ex-ministers, government contractors, tribal allies and foreign partners.

Google has temporarily locked down an unspecified number of Afghan government email accounts, according to a person familiar with the matter, as fears grow over the digital paper trail left by former officials and their international partners.

Google has temporarily locked down an unspecified number of Afghan government email accounts, according to a person familiar with the matter, as fears grow over the digital paper trail left by former officials and their international partners. In the weeks since the Taliban's swift takeover of Afghanistan from a US-backed government, reports have highlighted how biometric and Afghan payroll databases might be exploited by the new rulers to hunt their enemies. In a statement on Friday, Alphabet Inc's Google stopped short of confirming that Afghan government accounts were being locked down, saying that the company was monitoring the situation in Afghanistan and "taking temporary actions to secure relevant accounts." Watch | Afghanistan: Armed Fighters battle Taliban in Panjshir valley × One employee of the former government has told Reuters, the Taliban are seeking to acquire former officials' emails. Late last month, the employee said that the Taliban had asked him to preserve the data held on the servers of the ministry he used to work for. "If I do so, then they will get access to the data and official communications of the previous ministry leadership," the employee said. The employee said he did not comply and has since gone into hiding. Reuters is not identifying the man or his former ministry out of concern for his safety. Also Read: Expect Taliban to form inclusive government in Afghanistan, says Blinken Publicly available mail exchanger records show that some two dozen Afghan government bodies used Google's servers to handle official emails, including the ministries of finance, industry, higher education, and mines. Afghanistan's office of presidential protocol also used Google, according to the records, as did some local government bodies. Commandeering government databases and emails could provide information about employees of the former administration, ex-ministers, government contractors, tribal allies and foreign partners.

Google locks Afghan government accounts as Taliban seek emails: Source

Sixty-five combatants have been killed after&nbsp;Yemen's Huthi&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;launched a renewed offensive&nbsp;on&nbsp;Marib, the last&nbsp;government&nbsp;stronghold&nbsp;in the country's oil-rich north, a military official said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday.

The Iran-backed&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;attacked pro-government&nbsp;positions south of the strategic city, making progress despite losing dozens of fighters in coalition air strikes.

It was the Huthis' first major offensive&nbsp;on&nbsp;Marib, the key to controlling the region, since June, when 111 fighters&nbsp;on&nbsp;both sides died in three days of clashes.

"Twenty-two pro-government&nbsp;(forces) were killed and 50 others were wounded, while 43 Huthi&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;were also killed in the last 48 hours," a&nbsp;government&nbsp;military official told AFP.

The figures were confirmed by other military and medical sources.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-government-forms-committee-to-study-border-issue-with-china-410087">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal government forms committee to study border issue with China</a>

The resurgence in fighting comes after strikes&nbsp;on&nbsp;Yemen's largest airbase, in the country's south, killed at least 30 pro-government&nbsp;fighters&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday in the deadliest incident since December.

It also comes just days before the United Nations'&nbsp;new&nbsp;special envoy for&nbsp;Yemen, Swedish diplomat Hans Grundberg, takes up his duties.

Yemen's internationally recognised&nbsp;government, backed by a Saudi-led military coalition,&nbsp;and the Huthis have been locked in war since 2014, when the insurgents seized the capital Sanaa.

In February, the Huthis escalated their efforts to take Marib in fighting that has killed hundreds&nbsp;on&nbsp;both sides. Control of the oil-rich north would strengthen the Huthis' bargaining position in peace talks.

While the UN and Washington are pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport, closed under a Saudi blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations.

As well as the bloody offensive in Marib, the Huthis have also stepped up drone and missile strikes&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saudi targets, including its oil facilities.

In June, the former UN envoy for&nbsp;Yemen, Martin Griffiths, told the Security Council that his efforts over the past three years to end the war had been "in vain".

The fighting has killed tens of thousands and left some 80 percent of Yemenis dependent&nbsp;on&nbsp;aid, in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

The war has also displaced millions of people and left many&nbsp;on&nbsp;the brink of famine.

Sixty-five combatants have been killed after Yemen's Huthi rebels launched a renewed offensive on Marib, the last government stronghold in the country's oil-rich north, a military official said on Thursday.

Sixty-five combatants have been killed after Yemen's Huthi rebels launched a renewed offensive on Marib, the last government stronghold in the country's oil-rich north, a military official said on Thursday. The Iran-backed rebels attacked pro-government positions south of the strategic city, making progress despite losing dozens of fighters in coalition air strikes. It was the Huthis' first major offensive on Marib, the key to controlling the region, since June, when 111 fighters on both sides died in three days of clashes. "Twenty-two pro-government (forces) were killed and 50 others were wounded, while 43 Huthi rebels were also killed in the last 48 hours," a government military official told AFP. The figures were confirmed by other military and medical sources. Also read | Nepal government forms committee to study border issue with China The resurgence in fighting comes after strikes on Yemen's largest airbase, in the country's south, killed at least 30 pro-government fighters on Sunday in the deadliest incident since December. It also comes just days before the United Nations' new special envoy for Yemen, Swedish diplomat Hans Grundberg, takes up his duties. Yemen's internationally recognised government, backed by a Saudi-led military coalition, and the Huthis have been locked in war since 2014, when the insurgents seized the capital Sanaa. In February, the Huthis escalated their efforts to take Marib in fighting that has killed hundreds on both sides. Control of the oil-rich north would strengthen the Huthis' bargaining position in peace talks. While the UN and Washington are pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport, closed under a Saudi blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations. As well as the bloody offensive in Marib, the Huthis have also stepped up drone and missile strikes on Saudi targets, including its oil facilities. In June, the former UN envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, told the Security Council that his efforts over the past three years to end the war had been "in vain". The fighting has killed tens of thousands and left some 80 percent of Yemenis dependent on aid, in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. The war has also displaced millions of people and left many on the brink of famine.

65 dead as Yemen rebels launch new assault on government stronghold

The United States has evacuated all local Afghan staffers at its embassy in Kabul, as well as their families, ABC News reports, citing an internal report.

As of 00:30 GMT on Sunday, a total of 2,800 Afghans had left the capital city's airport, with no evacuees remaining at Kabul airport awaiting processing, according to an internal report.&nbsp;

According to The Hill, an internal State Department cable sent out last week stated that local Afghan embassy staffers were "deeply disheartened" by US evacuation operations.

The cable relayed reports of Taliban fighters harassing, spitting on, and cursing staffers at checkpoints.&nbsp;

"Our local staff and their families have faced hardship, pain, and loss as a result of their commitment to collaborating with us to create a better future for all Afghans.

Because of this, we have a special commitment to them, "according to a State Department spokesperson.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the United States and its partner countries reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of their citizens and at-risk Afghans travelling outside of Afghanistan.

Since August 14, the United States has evacuated or assisted in the evacuation of approximately 114,400 people.

Approximately 120,000 people have been relocated in the United States since the end of July.&nbsp;

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said on Friday that the US will work with the Taliban to ensure the safe evacuation of people from Afghanistan after the August 31 withdrawal deadline.

"The President directed the Secretary of State to continue diplomatic efforts with international partners to secure means for third-country nationals and Afghans with visas to leave the country even after the US military presence ends," Psaki said at a press conference.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has evacuated all local Afghan staffers at its embassy in Kabul, as well as their families, ABC News reports, citing an internal report. As of 00:30 GMT on Sunday, a total of 2,800 Afghans had left the capital city's airport, with no evacuees remaining at Kabul airport awaiting processing, according to an internal report.

The United States has evacuated all local Afghan staffers at its embassy in Kabul, as well as their families, ABC News reports, citing an internal report. As of 00:30 GMT on Sunday, a total of 2,800 Afghans had left the capital city's airport, with no evacuees remaining at Kabul airport awaiting processing, according to an internal report. According to The Hill, an internal State Department cable sent out last week stated that local Afghan embassy staffers were "deeply disheartened" by US evacuation operations. The cable relayed reports of Taliban fighters harassing, spitting on, and cursing staffers at checkpoints. "Our local staff and their families have faced hardship, pain, and loss as a result of their commitment to collaborating with us to create a better future for all Afghans. Because of this, we have a special commitment to them, "according to a State Department spokesperson. In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the United States and its partner countries reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of their citizens and at-risk Afghans travelling outside of Afghanistan. Since August 14, the United States has evacuated or assisted in the evacuation of approximately 114,400 people. Approximately 120,000 people have been relocated in the United States since the end of July. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said on Friday that the US will work with the Taliban to ensure the safe evacuation of people from Afghanistan after the August 31 withdrawal deadline. "The President directed the Secretary of State to continue diplomatic efforts with international partners to secure means for third-country nationals and Afghans with visas to leave the country even after the US military presence ends," Psaki said at a press conference. (With inputs from agencies)

US successfully evacuated all Afghan employees from the Kabul embassy

A band of veteran Afghan leaders, including two regional strongmen, are angling for talks with the Taliban and plan to meet within weeks to form a new front for holding negotiations on the country`s next government, a member of a group said.

Khalid Noor, son of Atta Mohammad Noor, the once-powerful governor of northern Afghanistan`s Balkh province, said the group comprised of veteran ethnic Uzbek leader Abdul Rashid Dostum and others opposed to the Taliban`s takeover.

"We prefer to negotiate collectively, because it is not that the problem of Afghanistan will be solved just by one of us," Noor, 27, told Reuters in an interview from an undisclosed location.

"So, it is important for the entire political community of the country to be involved, especially the traditional leaders, those with power, with public support," Noor said.

Atta Noor and Dostum, veterans of four decades of conflict in Afghanistan, both fled the country when the northern city of Mazar-i Sharif fell to the Taliban, the hardline Islamist group, without a fight.

The US-backed government and military folded elsewhere as the Taliban swept into Kabul on Aug. 15.

However, the backroom discussions are a sign of the country`s traditional strongmen coming back to life after the Taliban`s stunning military campaign.

It will be a challenge for any entity to rule Afghanistan for long without consensus between the country`s patchwork of ethnicities, most analysts say.

Unlike their previous period in power before 2001, the predominantly Pashtun Taliban did seek support from Tajiks, Uzbeks and other minorities as they prepared their offensive last month.

"The Taliban at this point are very, very arrogant, because they just won militarily. But what we assume (is) that they know the risk of ruling the way they did before," Noor said, referring to the previous Taliban regime`s exclusion of minority ethnic groups.

'SURRENDER OUT OF QUESTION'

Despite a commitment to negotiations, Noor said there was a "huge risk" that the talks could fail, leading the group to already prepare for an armed resistance against the Taliban. 
"Surrender is out of the question for us," said Noor, the youngest member of the erstwhile Afghan government`s team that held talks with the Taliban in Qatar.

Ahmad Massoud, leader of Afghanistan`s last major outpost of anti-Taliban resistance, last week also said he hoped talks with the Taliban would lead to an inclusive government, failing which his forces were ready to fight.

It remains uncertain how much popular support is actually enjoyed by leaders like Atta Noor, widely accused of corruption, and Dostum, accused of multiple acts of torture and brutality, and described in a US&nbsp;State Department report as a "quintessential warlord". Both leaders deny the accusations.

The Taliban, already a formidable military force, are now in possession of an estimated 2,000 armoured vehicles and up to 40 aircraft, among other arms left behind by fleeing Afghan forces, potentially bolstering their firepower.

Still, Noor said the Taliban would not be able to hold out against a popular resistance.

"History has shown that no one in Afghanistan can rule by force, it is impossible," the Western-educated politician said, "No matter how much support they have from international community, it will fail."

A band of veteran Afghan leaders, including two regional strongmen, are angling for talks with the Taliban and plan to meet within weeks to form a new front for holding negotiations on the country`s next government, a member of a group said.

A band of veteran Afghan leaders, including two regional strongmen, are angling for talks with the Taliban and plan to meet within weeks to form a new front for holding negotiations on the country`s next government, a member of a group said. Khalid Noor, son of Atta Mohammad Noor, the once-powerful governor of northern Afghanistan`s Balkh province, said the group comprised of veteran ethnic Uzbek leader Abdul Rashid Dostum and others opposed to the Taliban`s takeover. "We prefer to negotiate collectively, because it is not that the problem of Afghanistan will be solved just by one of us," Noor, 27, told Reuters in an interview from an undisclosed location. "So, it is important for the entire political community of the country to be involved, especially the traditional leaders, those with power, with public support," Noor said. Atta Noor and Dostum, veterans of four decades of conflict in Afghanistan, both fled the country when the northern city of Mazar-i Sharif fell to the Taliban, the hardline Islamist group, without a fight. The US-backed government and military folded elsewhere as the Taliban swept into Kabul on Aug. 15. However, the backroom discussions are a sign of the country`s traditional strongmen coming back to life after the Taliban`s stunning military campaign. It will be a challenge for any entity to rule Afghanistan for long without consensus between the country`s patchwork of ethnicities, most analysts say. Unlike their previous period in power before 2001, the predominantly Pashtun Taliban did seek support from Tajiks, Uzbeks and other minorities as they prepared their offensive last month. "The Taliban at this point are very, very arrogant, because they just won militarily. But what we assume (is) that they know the risk of ruling the way they did before," Noor said, referring to the previous Taliban regime`s exclusion of minority ethnic groups. 'SURRENDER OUT OF QUESTION' Despite a commitment to negotiations, Noor said there was a "huge risk" that the talks could fail, leading the group to already prepare for an armed resistance against the Taliban. "Surrender is out of the question for us," said Noor, the youngest member of the erstwhile Afghan government`s team that held talks with the Taliban in Qatar. Ahmad Massoud, leader of Afghanistan`s last major outpost of anti-Taliban resistance, last week also said he hoped talks with the Taliban would lead to an inclusive government, failing which his forces were ready to fight. It remains uncertain how much popular support is actually enjoyed by leaders like Atta Noor, widely accused of corruption, and Dostum, accused of multiple acts of torture and brutality, and described in a US State Department report as a "quintessential warlord". Both leaders deny the accusations. The Taliban, already a formidable military force, are now in possession of an estimated 2,000 armoured vehicles and up to 40 aircraft, among other arms left behind by fleeing Afghan forces, potentially bolstering their firepower. Still, Noor said the Taliban would not be able to hold out against a popular resistance. "History has shown that no one in Afghanistan can rule by force, it is impossible," the Western-educated politician said, "No matter how much support they have from international community, it will fail."

Veteran Afghan strongmen to form new front for negotiating with Taliban

US&nbsp;forces were in the final phase of pulling out of Kabul, ending two decades of costly involvement in&nbsp;Afghanistan, as the country's new Taliban rulers prepared to take control of the airport.

An explosion was heard near the airport, witnesses said, and television footage showed black smoke rising into the sky but there was no immediate word on any casualties.

Two witnesses said the blast appeared to have been caused by a rocket that hit a house in an area to the northern side of the airport but there was no immediate confirmation.

Just over 1,000 civilians remained at the airport on Sunday to be flown out before the troops finally leave, a Western security official told Reuters.

"We want to ensure that every foreign civilian and those who are at risk are evacuated today. Forces will start flying out once this process is over," said the official, who is stationed at the airport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-loud-explosion-heard-in-kabul-as-us-official-admits-military-strike-carried-out-in-same-area-409224">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul as US official admits military strike carried out in same area</a>

US&nbsp;President&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;has said he will stick by his deadline to withdraw all U.S. troops&nbsp;from&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;by Tuesday. A US&nbsp;official told Reuters on Saturday that fewer than 4,000 troops remained at the airport.

US&nbsp;and allied forces have mounted a massive two-week effort to ferry foreign nationals and tens of thousands of vulnerable Afghans out of the country.

The airlift, one of the biggest such evacuation operations ever, marked the end of a 20-year Western mission in Afghanistan that began when US led forces ousted a Taliban government that had provided&nbsp;safe&nbsp;haven for the perpetrators of the September&nbsp;11, 2001 attacks on the United States.

The final chapter came quickly after the United States and the Taliban made a deal to end the foreign involvement. The Western-backed government and Afghan army melted away as Taliban fighters swept across the country and took control of Kabul on August&nbsp;15.

The United States and allies have taken about 114,400 people out of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in the past two weeks, but tens of thousands who want to go will be left behind.

"We tried every option because our lives are in danger. They (the&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;or foreigners) must show us a way to be saved. We should leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;or they should provide a&nbsp;safe&nbsp;place for us," said one woman outside the airport.

A Taliban official told Reuters the Islamist group had engineers and technicians ready to take charge of the airport.

"We are waiting for the final nod&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;to secure full control over Kabul airport as both sides aim for a swift handover," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Britain's last military flight left Kabul on Saturday night after a chaotic two weeks at the airport that was plunged into a bloodbath on Thursday when an Islamic State suicide bomb attack outside the airport gates killed at least 90 Afghans and 13 American troops.

Biden&nbsp;headed on Sunday to Dover Air Force Base to honour members of the US&nbsp;military killed in the attack as their remains were returned to the United States.

A top US official&nbsp;said the&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;administration expects the Taliban to continue allowing&nbsp;safe&nbsp;passage&nbsp;for&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;and others to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;after the U.S. military withdrawal is completed.

"The Taliban have both communicated privately and publicly that they will allow for&nbsp;safe&nbsp;passage," said Jake Sullivan,&nbsp;Biden's national security adviser, in a CBS TV interview set to be broadcast Sunday.

FINANCIAL AND HUMANITARIAN CRISIS

The collapse of the Afghan government leaves an administrative vacuum that has led to fears of an economic crisis and widespread hunger.

Prices for commodities like flour, oil and rice are rapidly rising and the currency is plunging, with money changers across the border in Pakistan already refusing to accept the afghani.

On Saturday, officials ordered banks to re-open and imposed a limit on withdrawals of $200 or 20,000 afghani. Long queues forming outside bank branches of people trying to get money out.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has said the difficulties will subside quickly once the new administration is up and running.

But with its economy shattered by decades of war,&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is now facing the end of billions of dollars in foreign aid poured in by Western donors.

Mujahid said the Taliban would announce a full cabinet in the coming days. It had appointed governors and police chiefs in all but one of&nbsp;Afghanistan's 34 provinces, he said.

It also appealed to the United States and other Western nations to maintain diplomatic relations after withdrawing. Britain said that should happen only if the Taliban allow&nbsp;safe&nbsp;passage&nbsp;for those who want to leave and respect human rights.

The Taliban's 1996-2001 rule was marked by a harsh version of sharia, Islamic law, with many political rights and basic freedoms curtailed and women severely oppressed.

Afghanistan&nbsp;was also a hub for anti-Western militants, and Washington, London and others fear it might become so again.

CITY CALM

While Kabul's airport has been in chaos, the rest of the city has been generally calm. The Taliban have told residents to hand over government equipment including weapons and vehicles within a week.

The Western security official said crowds at the airport gates had diminished after a specific warning&nbsp;from&nbsp;the U.S. government of another attack by ISIS-K, the branch of Islamic State in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;that is an enemy of both the West and the Taliban.

The United States said on Saturday it had killed two ISIS-K militants.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;had vowed to hunt down the perpetrators of the explosion and said the strike was not the last.

The Taliban condemned the US drone strike, which took place in Nangarhar province, an eastern area that borders Pakistan.

The airport attack added fuel to criticism&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;faced at home and abroad for the chaos. He has defended his decisions, saying the United States long ago achieved its rationale for invading in 2001.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain would not have wished to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in such a manner.

But Richard Dannatt, a former head of the British army, said the government need to investigate why it was so ill-prepared for the rapid fall of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;to the Taliban.

"It is unfathomable why it would appear that the government was asleep on watch," Dannat told Times Radio.

US forces were in the final phase of pulling out of Kabul, ending two decades of costly involvement in Afghanistan, as the country's new Taliban rulers prepared to take control of the airport.

US forces were in the final phase of pulling out of Kabul, ending two decades of costly involvement in Afghanistan, as the country's new Taliban rulers prepared to take control of the airport. An explosion was heard near the airport, witnesses said, and television footage showed black smoke rising into the sky but there was no immediate word on any casualties. Two witnesses said the blast appeared to have been caused by a rocket that hit a house in an area to the northern side of the airport but there was no immediate confirmation. Just over 1,000 civilians remained at the airport on Sunday to be flown out before the troops finally leave, a Western security official told Reuters. "We want to ensure that every foreign civilian and those who are at risk are evacuated today. Forces will start flying out once this process is over," said the official, who is stationed at the airport. Also read | Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul as US official admits military strike carried out in same area US President Joe Biden has said he will stick by his deadline to withdraw all U.S. troops from Afghanistan by Tuesday. A US official told Reuters on Saturday that fewer than 4,000 troops remained at the airport. US and allied forces have mounted a massive two-week effort to ferry foreign nationals and tens of thousands of vulnerable Afghans out of the country. The airlift, one of the biggest such evacuation operations ever, marked the end of a 20-year Western mission in Afghanistan that began when US led forces ousted a Taliban government that had provided safe haven for the perpetrators of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. The final chapter came quickly after the United States and the Taliban made a deal to end the foreign involvement. The Western-backed government and Afghan army melted away as Taliban fighters swept across the country and took control of Kabul on August 15. The United States and allies have taken about 114,400 people out of Afghanistan in the past two weeks, but tens of thousands who want to go will be left behind. "We tried every option because our lives are in danger. They (the Americans or foreigners) must show us a way to be saved. We should leave Afghanistan or they should provide a safe place for us," said one woman outside the airport. A Taliban official told Reuters the Islamist group had engineers and technicians ready to take charge of the airport. "We are waiting for the final nod from the Americans to secure full control over Kabul airport as both sides aim for a swift handover," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Britain's last military flight left Kabul on Saturday night after a chaotic two weeks at the airport that was plunged into a bloodbath on Thursday when an Islamic State suicide bomb attack outside the airport gates killed at least 90 Afghans and 13 American troops. Biden headed on Sunday to Dover Air Force Base to honour members of the US military killed in the attack as their remains were returned to the United States. A top US official said the Biden administration expects the Taliban to continue allowing safe passage for Americans and others to leave Afghanistan after the U.S. military withdrawal is completed. "The Taliban have both communicated privately and publicly that they will allow for safe passage," said Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security adviser, in a CBS TV interview set to be broadcast Sunday. FINANCIAL AND HUMANITARIAN CRISIS The collapse of the Afghan government leaves an administrative vacuum that has led to fears of an economic crisis and widespread hunger. Prices for commodities like flour, oil and rice are rapidly rising and the currency is plunging, with money changers across the border in Pakistan already refusing to accept the afghani. On Saturday, officials ordered banks to re-open and imposed a limit on withdrawals of $200 or 20,000 afghani. Long queues forming outside bank branches of people trying to get money out. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has said the difficulties will subside quickly once the new administration is up and running. But with its economy shattered by decades of war, Afghanistan is now facing the end of billions of dollars in foreign aid poured in by Western donors. Mujahid said the Taliban would announce a full cabinet in the coming days. It had appointed governors and police chiefs in all but one of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, he said. It also appealed to the United States and other Western nations to maintain diplomatic relations after withdrawing. Britain said that should happen only if the Taliban allow safe passage for those who want to leave and respect human rights. The Taliban's 1996-2001 rule was marked by a harsh version of sharia, Islamic law, with many political rights and basic freedoms curtailed and women severely oppressed. Afghanistan was also a hub for anti-Western militants, and Washington, London and others fear it might become so again. CITY CALM While Kabul's airport has been in chaos, the rest of the city has been generally calm. The Taliban have told residents to hand over government equipment including weapons and vehicles within a week. The Western security official said crowds at the airport gates had diminished after a specific warning from the U.S. government of another attack by ISIS-K, the branch of Islamic State in Afghanistan that is an enemy of both the West and the Taliban. The United States said on Saturday it had killed two ISIS-K militants. Biden had vowed to hunt down the perpetrators of the explosion and said the strike was not the last. The Taliban condemned the US drone strike, which took place in Nangarhar province, an eastern area that borders Pakistan. The airport attack added fuel to criticism Biden faced at home and abroad for the chaos. He has defended his decisions, saying the United States long ago achieved its rationale for invading in 2001. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain would not have wished to leave Afghanistan in such a manner. But Richard Dannatt, a former head of the British army, said the government need to investigate why it was so ill-prepared for the rapid fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban. "It is unfathomable why it would appear that the government was asleep on watch," Dannat told Times Radio.

US in final phase of Kabul evacuations, Taliban prepares government

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma on July 7 rapidly devolved into orgies of looting and arson in the two provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Zuma has been sentenced for contempt of court after he repeatedly refused to testify at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption.

Some media reports on the violence which wracked the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month said that Indian-origin South Africans bore the brunt of the attack, some even stating that 'many' of the 330 people killed as looters went on the rampage were of Indian origin.

"This is not quite correct. Certainly, there were a number of Indian-owned businesses that were looted or burnt down, but they were among the scores more, many owned by national chain-store groups, that were raided by the looters. There were also no direct attacks on any Indians that we are aware of. As far as deaths go, we believe that only two or three of those killed were of Indian-origin," Gandhi said.

"What I said was that terrorist attacks by anyone anywhere in the world could occur at any time, not just against any particular community in South Africa only," Gandhi said, reacting to some reports in the Indian media quoting her as saying that attacks could happen anytime anywhere.

"We can't deny that such threats do exist, especially advocated by some people on social media, but our government is doing all in its power to address this," she said.

The community leader, who heads up the Gandhi Development Trust based at the Phoenix Settlement started by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa, also commented on reports that there was an increased number of applications by South Africans of Indian origin for OCI cards.

"The Indian missions would be in a better position to answer that, but we know that there are people who have already migrated to places such as Australia who have been trying to get their relatives in South Africa to join them. But the recent violence should not be used as an excuse for that. We should also consider that hundreds of thousands of fourth and fifth generation Indians who consider themselves to be South African citizens are still here, many of them doing their part to assist in reconciliation and rehabilitation projects after the violence," Gandhi said.

Officials at the Indian consulates in Durban and Johannesburg confirmed that there has been an increase in both applications for and enquiries about the OCI card.

Gandhi herself, together with other community leaders in the Indian and black communities, is involved in various projects aimed at reconciliation.

"Inciting calls by some people, including political leaders, which get circulated widely on social media, unfortunately do not help," Gandhi said, in an apparent reference to a statement by the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, who has often made anti-Indian remarks.

"What those Indians did there in Phoenix is unforgettable, we will never forgive them for what they did to our people. And those are Indian criminals, they must be called exactly that. We are not going to make any apology about that," Malema had said in an interview with radio station Khaya FM after the recent violence.

There were 22 Black people killed in Phoenix, allegedly at the hands of Indian vigilantes, many of whom are now facing murder and manslaughter charges.

During the riots around the largely Indian area of Phoenix, which is surrounded by three Black informal settlements, the Phoenix Settlement remained untouched as looters raided and burnt down neighbouring businesses.

Advocate Mahomed Saleem Khan (SC) cautioned Malema in a widely circulated social media post that if he persisted with his anti-Indian remarks, he would institute legal proceedings against him.

"(Indians) have honoured South Africa and the African continent with significant, material and continuing contributions towards, inter alia, commercial and cultural development," Khan said.

Popular Indian-origin comedian and social commentator Karou Charou, whose real name is Mahdevan Moodley, also made an online plea to the Black community to ignore the racist remarks on social media and work together with the Indian community to achieve more.

"The majority of people from the informal settlements (around Phoenix) are employed by Indian businesses and households. The Indian community around these informal settlements drives this mini-economy and that is an undeniable fact, whether you like it or not," Moodley said.

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021. Protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma on July 7 rapidly devolved into orgies of looting and arson in the two provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Zuma has been sentenced for contempt of court after he repeatedly refused to testify at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption. Some media reports on the violence which wracked the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month said that Indian-origin South Africans bore the brunt of the attack, some even stating that 'many' of the 330 people killed as looters went on the rampage were of Indian origin. "This is not quite correct. Certainly, there were a number of Indian-owned businesses that were looted or burnt down, but they were among the scores more, many owned by national chain-store groups, that were raided by the looters. There were also no direct attacks on any Indians that we are aware of. As far as deaths go, we believe that only two or three of those killed were of Indian-origin," Gandhi said. "What I said was that terrorist attacks by anyone anywhere in the world could occur at any time, not just against any particular community in South Africa only," Gandhi said, reacting to some reports in the Indian media quoting her as saying that attacks could happen anytime anywhere. "We can't deny that such threats do exist, especially advocated by some people on social media, but our government is doing all in its power to address this," she said. The community leader, who heads up the Gandhi Development Trust based at the Phoenix Settlement started by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa, also commented on reports that there was an increased number of applications by South Africans of Indian origin for OCI cards. "The Indian missions would be in a better position to answer that, but we know that there are people who have already migrated to places such as Australia who have been trying to get their relatives in South Africa to join them. But the recent violence should not be used as an excuse for that. We should also consider that hundreds of thousands of fourth and fifth generation Indians who consider themselves to be South African citizens are still here, many of them doing their part to assist in reconciliation and rehabilitation projects after the violence," Gandhi said. Officials at the Indian consulates in Durban and Johannesburg confirmed that there has been an increase in both applications for and enquiries about the OCI card. Gandhi herself, together with other community leaders in the Indian and black communities, is involved in various projects aimed at reconciliation. "Inciting calls by some people, including political leaders, which get circulated widely on social media, unfortunately do not help," Gandhi said, in an apparent reference to a statement by the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, who has often made anti-Indian remarks. "What those Indians did there in Phoenix is unforgettable, we will never forgive them for what they did to our people. And those are Indian criminals, they must be called exactly that. We are not going to make any apology about that," Malema had said in an interview with radio station Khaya FM after the recent violence. There were 22 Black people killed in Phoenix, allegedly at the hands of Indian vigilantes, many of whom are now facing murder and manslaughter charges. During the riots around the largely Indian area of Phoenix, which is surrounded by three Black informal settlements, the Phoenix Settlement remained untouched as looters raided and burnt down neighbouring businesses. Advocate Mahomed Saleem Khan (SC) cautioned Malema in a widely circulated social media post that if he persisted with his anti-Indian remarks, he would institute legal proceedings against him. "(Indians) have honoured South Africa and the African continent with significant, material and continuing contributions towards, inter alia, commercial and cultural development," Khan said. Popular Indian-origin comedian and social commentator Karou Charou, whose real name is Mahdevan Moodley, also made an online plea to the Black community to ignore the racist remarks on social media and work together with the Indian community to achieve more. "The majority of people from the informal settlements (around Phoenix) are employed by Indian businesses and households. The Indian community around these informal settlements drives this mini-economy and that is an undeniable fact, whether you like it or not," Moodley said.

Threats against Indians in South Africa do exist, but government doing all it can to counter this: Mahatma Gandhi's grand-daughter

Taliban on Sunday announced that it will soon form a new government in Afghanistan, a week after it seized control of the state capital Kabul.

Taliban spokesperson&nbsp;Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks are on with Afghan political leaders and added that a new government will be announced in the near future, reports TOLO news.

“Our political officials met with leaders here in Kabul, their views are important, discussions are moving, InshaAllah, there is hope for an announcement on the government soon,” Mujahid was quoted as saying.

The announcement on the government formation comes even as thousands of Afghan locals try to flee the conflict-ridden state, fearing a harsher Islamic law, similar to the one imposed by the Taliban regime around two decades ago.

The situation has turned so worse that seven people were killed near the Kabul airport during the evacuation process.

Earlier on Saturday, members of the Taliban’s political office met with a number of politicians, including former president Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah, the head of High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), in Kabul to hold discussions on “the overall political situation” in the state.&nbsp;

Abdullah Abdullah in a Facebook post later confirmed the meeting with the Taliban leaders, saying that the discussions were focused on the formation of an inclusive government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-dispatch-18-commercial-aircraft-to-lift-us-citizens-vulnerable-afghans-from-kabul-407644">Also read |&nbsp;US to dispatch 18 commercial aircraft to lift US citizens, ‘vulnerable’ Afghans from Kabul</a>

However, some Afghan political leaders criticized the way the discussions are being held.

“I don’t see this game as a good one because it looks like a game of individuals, everyone tries to promote himself and does not show respect for&nbsp;the Afghans,” Sayed Eshaq Gailani, the head of the Nahzat-e-Hambastagi Afghanistan party, said.

Meanwhile, Atta Mohammad Noor, the former governor of Balkh, said the next government will not be acceptable if it is not inclusive.

“The war has not ended, we have a long way to go, we will test them (the Taliban), we will emerge again ... either to resolve it through an inclusive government or war,” Noor said.

Taliban on Sunday announced that it will soon form a new government in Afghanistan, a week after it seized control of the state capital Kabul. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks are on with Afghan political leaders and added that a new government will be announced in the near future, reports TOLO news.

Taliban on Sunday announced that it will soon form a new government in Afghanistan, a week after it seized control of the state capital Kabul. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks are on with Afghan political leaders and added that a new government will be announced in the near future, reports TOLO news. “Our political officials met with leaders here in Kabul, their views are important, discussions are moving, InshaAllah, there is hope for an announcement on the government soon,” Mujahid was quoted as saying. The announcement on the government formation comes even as thousands of Afghan locals try to flee the conflict-ridden state, fearing a harsher Islamic law, similar to the one imposed by the Taliban regime around two decades ago. The situation has turned so worse that seven people were killed near the Kabul airport during the evacuation process. Earlier on Saturday, members of the Taliban’s political office met with a number of politicians, including former president Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah, the head of High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR), in Kabul to hold discussions on “the overall political situation” in the state. Abdullah Abdullah in a Facebook post later confirmed the meeting with the Taliban leaders, saying that the discussions were focused on the formation of an inclusive government. Also read | US to dispatch 18 commercial aircraft to lift US citizens, ‘vulnerable’ Afghans from Kabul However, some Afghan political leaders criticized the way the discussions are being held. “I don’t see this game as a good one because it looks like a game of individuals, everyone tries to promote himself and does not show respect for the Afghans,” Sayed Eshaq Gailani, the head of the Nahzat-e-Hambastagi Afghanistan party, said. Meanwhile, Atta Mohammad Noor, the former governor of Balkh, said the next government will not be acceptable if it is not inclusive. “The war has not ended, we have a long way to go, we will test them (the Taliban), we will emerge again ... either to resolve it through an inclusive government or war,” Noor said.

Taliban to soon form new government in Afghanistan

China has said that it is waiting &nbsp;for the Taliban to establish an “open, inclusive, and broadly representative” government in Afghanistan before it decides on extending diplomatic recognition.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a media briefing, "If we are going to recognise a government, we will have to wait till the government is formed". He added, "Only after that, will we come to the question of diplomatic recognition".

“It is a customary international practice that the recognition of a government comes after its formation. China’s position on the

Afghan issue is clear and consistent. We hope that Afghanistan can form an open, inclusive, and broadly representative government that echoes the widely shared aspirations of its own people and the international community,” Zhao said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-welcome-this-what-china-stands-to-benefit-from-rise-of-taliban-in-afghanistan-406064">Also read |&nbsp;'We welcome this': What China stands to benefit from rise of Taliban in Afghanistan</a>

When Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country.&nbsp;

Also, throughout Washington's withdrawal from Afghanistan, Beijing tried to maintain unofficial ties with the Taliban.

Afghanistan and China share a 76-kilometer (47-mile) border and in the sensitive border region of Xinjiang, Beijing has long feared that Afghanistan might serve as a staging area for Uyghur separatists.

However, in Tianjin last month, a Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, promising that Afghanistan wouldn't be used as a base for militants.

Chinese investment and economic support were offered in return for Afghanistan's reconstruction. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

China has said that it is waiting for the Taliban to establish an “open, inclusive, and broadly representative” government in Afghanistan before it decides on extending diplomatic recognition.

China has said that it is waiting for the Taliban to establish an “open, inclusive, and broadly representative” government in Afghanistan before it decides on extending diplomatic recognition. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a media briefing, "If we are going to recognise a government, we will have to wait till the government is formed". He added, "Only after that, will we come to the question of diplomatic recognition". “It is a customary international practice that the recognition of a government comes after its formation. China’s position on the Afghan issue is clear and consistent. We hope that Afghanistan can form an open, inclusive, and broadly representative government that echoes the widely shared aspirations of its own people and the international community,” Zhao said. Also read | 'We welcome this': What China stands to benefit from rise of Taliban in Afghanistan When Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country. Also, throughout Washington's withdrawal from Afghanistan, Beijing tried to maintain unofficial ties with the Taliban. Afghanistan and China share a 76-kilometer (47-mile) border and in the sensitive border region of Xinjiang, Beijing has long feared that Afghanistan might serve as a staging area for Uyghur separatists. However, in Tianjin last month, a Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, promising that Afghanistan wouldn't be used as a base for militants. Chinese investment and economic support were offered in return for Afghanistan's reconstruction.

China waiting for government formation before extending diplomatic recognition to Taliban

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday. &nbsp;

On being asked to comment over media reports that China was ready to recognise the Taliban as a legitimate government, the top US diplomat said, “A government that doesn’t uphold the basic rights of its people, including women and girls; that harbours terrorist groups that have designs on the United States or allies and partners — certainly, that’s not going to happen.”&nbsp;

He appearing on US television channels on Sunday to comment over the developments in Afghanistan. The secretary of state warned that international assistance to a Taliban-led government in Kabul “will not be forthcoming, sanctions will not be lifted and their ability to travel won’t happen.” &nbsp;

When the interviewer implied that his statement sounds like a no to recognition, the diplomat said, “It’s incumbent on the international community, including the United States, to do everything we can using every tool that we have — economic, diplomatic, political — to ensure (those) rights are sustained.”&nbsp;

Blinken was also reminded by the&nbsp;interviewer&nbsp;that in a recent statement, US President Joe Biden insisted that the Kabul government would not fall, and asked him how he could “get this so wrong.”&nbsp;

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday.

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday. On being asked to comment over media reports that China was ready to recognise the Taliban as a legitimate government, the top US diplomat said, “A government that doesn’t uphold the basic rights of its people, including women and girls; that harbours terrorist groups that have designs on the United States or allies and partners — certainly, that’s not going to happen.” He appearing on US television channels on Sunday to comment over the developments in Afghanistan. The secretary of state warned that international assistance to a Taliban-led government in Kabul “will not be forthcoming, sanctions will not be lifted and their ability to travel won’t happen.” When the interviewer implied that his statement sounds like a no to recognition, the diplomat said, “It’s incumbent on the international community, including the United States, to do everything we can using every tool that we have — economic, diplomatic, political — to ensure (those) rights are sustained.” Blinken was also reminded by the interviewer that in a recent statement, US President Joe Biden insisted that the Kabul government would not fall, and asked him how he could “get this so wrong.”

US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken 

Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition began a round of talks on Friday in Mexico City aimed at overcoming Venezuela's acute political and economic crisis, which has caused millions to flee the Latin American nation. 
 
Unlike previous negotiation efforts, the talks will include more than a dozen countries, among them the Netherlands, Russia, Bolivia, Turkey and Norway, which will act as the facilitator. 
 
At the National Museum of Anthropology, the parties agreed to a memorandum of understanding containing the road map that will guide the dialogue process. 
 
For the talks to advance to a potential agreement, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro demands that sanctions imposed by the United States and Europe on officials and institutions be lifted. Venezuela says the sanctions are responsible for the OPEC member's economic crisis. 
 
For its part, the opposition coalition calls to allow humanitarian aid, including vaccines against COVID-19, to enter into Venezuela; the release of dozens of supporters whom it considers "political prisoners;" and guarantees it will be allowed to participate in regional elections in November. 
 
"We already know what we do not agree on. ... The job now is to find points of confluence to guarantee the future and the happiness of the people of Venezuela," Jorge Rodriguez, president of Venezuela's parliament, said at the beginning of the talks. 
 
The return to the negotiating table represents a turnaround for the opposition, which in the past accused Maduro of using dialogue to buy time and defuse international pressure. The Venezuelan government abandoned the 2019 dialogue, which took place in Barbados and Norway, after the United States tightened sanctions. 
 
"Today we are beginning the second stage of a negotiation process that we know will be complex, which will surely have very difficult moments," said Gerardo Blyde, chair of the Venezuelan opposition delegation. 
 
"Between these two sidewalks where each party supports narratives that seem diametrically opposed is a street full of hopeless and suffering citizens, our people," he added.

Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition began a round of talks on Friday in Mexico City aimed at overcoming Venezuela's acute political and economic crisis, which has caused millions to flee the Latin American nation.

Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition began a round of talks on Friday in Mexico City aimed at overcoming Venezuela's acute political and economic crisis, which has caused millions to flee the Latin American nation. Unlike previous negotiation efforts, the talks will include more than a dozen countries, among them the Netherlands, Russia, Bolivia, Turkey and Norway, which will act as the facilitator. At the National Museum of Anthropology, the parties agreed to a memorandum of understanding containing the road map that will guide the dialogue process. For the talks to advance to a potential agreement, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro demands that sanctions imposed by the United States and Europe on officials and institutions be lifted. Venezuela says the sanctions are responsible for the OPEC member's economic crisis. For its part, the opposition coalition calls to allow humanitarian aid, including vaccines against COVID-19, to enter into Venezuela; the release of dozens of supporters whom it considers "political prisoners;" and guarantees it will be allowed to participate in regional elections in November. "We already know what we do not agree on. ... The job now is to find points of confluence to guarantee the future and the happiness of the people of Venezuela," Jorge Rodriguez, president of Venezuela's parliament, said at the beginning of the talks. The return to the negotiating table represents a turnaround for the opposition, which in the past accused Maduro of using dialogue to buy time and defuse international pressure. The Venezuelan government abandoned the 2019 dialogue, which took place in Barbados and Norway, after the United States tightened sanctions. "Today we are beginning the second stage of a negotiation process that we know will be complex, which will surely have very difficult moments," said Gerardo Blyde, chair of the Venezuelan opposition delegation. "Between these two sidewalks where each party supports narratives that seem diametrically opposed is a street full of hopeless and suffering citizens, our people," he added.

Venezuelan government and opposition talks open in Mexico City

Polish MPs on Wednesday voted in favour of a new law that critics say will curb media freedom and hit ties with the United States, but the ruling coalition also lost several key votes, putting its long-term future in doubt.

The media law would prevent companies from outside the European Economic Area from holding a controlling stake in Polish media companies.

That would force US group Discovery to sell its majority stake in TVN, one of&nbsp;Poland's biggest private TV networks whose news channel TVN24 is often highly critical of the government.

The ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party says the law is needed to stop hostile foreign powers from taking control of powerful broadcasters and is in line with rules in other European countries.

But critics say it opens a path for a state-controlled company to take control of TVN, following a takeover of the regional newspaper group Polska Press by state energy giant PKN Orlen.

TVN urged the Senate and the president to reject the law, labelling the vote "an unprecedented attack on freedom of expression and media independence".

The vote came during a stormy session of parliament that at one point was interrupted when MPs approved an opposition motion to suspend proceedings to delay the media law vote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-may-become-a-mostly-childhood-disease-in-few-years-study-404960">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19 may become a mostly childhood disease in few years: Study&nbsp;</a>

In the end, the session resumed and the media law passed by 228 votes in favour and 216 against in the 460-seat lower house of parliament.

Thousands of people took to the streets in rallies across&nbsp;Poland&nbsp;on Tuesday over the draft law.

The United States is "deeply troubled" by the draft legislation, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, warning that it "threatens media freedom and could undermine&nbsp;Poland's strong investment climate".

'Fraudsters! Fraudsters!'

Earlier in the parliamentary session, the government lost four key votes, a day after a junior partner walked out of the governing coalition led by PiS.

In one of the votes, MPs voted by 229 to 227 to suspend the session to postpone a vote on the media law.

But speaker Elzbieta Witek, a PiS member, ordered another vote, which the government won by 230 to 225 to resume proceedings despite howls of outrage from the opposition.

"Fraudsters! Fraudsters!" the MPs chanted, accusing the government of buying support to win the vote.

"The parliamentary majority, glued together with the mud of corruption and blackmail, is crumbling before our eyes," tweeted former EU chief Donald Tusk, who heads up the opposition Civic Platform.

"It may go on for a while but it is no longer able to govern."

The lost votes do not mean that the government will collapse, as a formal vote of no confidence would be need for that to happen, and PiS could potentially continue as a minority government.

But commentators have said a minority government would be difficult to sustain long-term as it would have to rely on the far-right Confederation party, which is highly critical of the government.

The next elections are scheduled for 2023.

The United Right coalition, which is dominated by the PiS, has governed&nbsp;Poland&nbsp;since 2015.

It has been accused by the European Union of rolling back democratic freedoms but is still popular among many Poles, mainly for its social welfare reforms.

Polish MPs on Wednesday voted in favour of a new law that critics say will curb media freedom and hit ties with the United States, but the ruling coalition also lost several key votes, putting its long-term future in doubt.

Polish MPs on Wednesday voted in favour of a new law that critics say will curb media freedom and hit ties with the United States, but the ruling coalition also lost several key votes, putting its long-term future in doubt. The media law would prevent companies from outside the European Economic Area from holding a controlling stake in Polish media companies. That would force US group Discovery to sell its majority stake in TVN, one of Poland's biggest private TV networks whose news channel TVN24 is often highly critical of the government. The ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party says the law is needed to stop hostile foreign powers from taking control of powerful broadcasters and is in line with rules in other European countries. But critics say it opens a path for a state-controlled company to take control of TVN, following a takeover of the regional newspaper group Polska Press by state energy giant PKN Orlen. TVN urged the Senate and the president to reject the law, labelling the vote "an unprecedented attack on freedom of expression and media independence". The vote came during a stormy session of parliament that at one point was interrupted when MPs approved an opposition motion to suspend proceedings to delay the media law vote. Also read | COVID-19 may become a mostly childhood disease in few years: Study In the end, the session resumed and the media law passed by 228 votes in favour and 216 against in the 460-seat lower house of parliament. Thousands of people took to the streets in rallies across Poland on Tuesday over the draft law. The United States is "deeply troubled" by the draft legislation, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, warning that it "threatens media freedom and could undermine Poland's strong investment climate". 'Fraudsters! Fraudsters!' Earlier in the parliamentary session, the government lost four key votes, a day after a junior partner walked out of the governing coalition led by PiS. In one of the votes, MPs voted by 229 to 227 to suspend the session to postpone a vote on the media law. But speaker Elzbieta Witek, a PiS member, ordered another vote, which the government won by 230 to 225 to resume proceedings despite howls of outrage from the opposition. "Fraudsters! Fraudsters!" the MPs chanted, accusing the government of buying support to win the vote. "The parliamentary majority, glued together with the mud of corruption and blackmail, is crumbling before our eyes," tweeted former EU chief Donald Tusk, who heads up the opposition Civic Platform. "It may go on for a while but it is no longer able to govern." The lost votes do not mean that the government will collapse, as a formal vote of no confidence would be need for that to happen, and PiS could potentially continue as a minority government. But commentators have said a minority government would be difficult to sustain long-term as it would have to rely on the far-right Confederation party, which is highly critical of the government. The next elections are scheduled for 2023. The United Right coalition, which is dominated by the PiS, has governed Poland since 2015. It has been accused by the European Union of rolling back democratic freedoms but is still popular among many Poles, mainly for its social welfare reforms.

Polish MPs approve controversial media law but government wobbles

After the city of Zaranj, Nimroz province’s capital, fell to the Taliban on Friday, some people flocked to loot public property from government institutions, a TOLOnews report said. The incident has sparked strong reaction from residents and religious scholars alike.&nbsp;

Several videos have surfaced after the fall of Zaranj to the Taliban, where people can be seen looting different kinds of equipment from government institutions, including governor’s compound.&nbsp;

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Looting in Nimruz province as the Taliban overrun the city of Zaranj.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nimruz?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nimruz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/b9RtNwlY4Q">pic.twitter.com/b9RtNwlY4Q</a>
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HabibKhanT/status/1423634347517792256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another video, prisoners can be seen escaping the main provincial prison. The same happened in Sheberghan, Jawzjan’s capital in northern Afghanistan, after it was taken up by Taliban on Saturday.&nbsp;

Presidential adviser Shahussain Murtazawi said, “This shows the Taliban has no plan for governance or for providing service to the people. This time, Talibs are following the policy of looting.”&nbsp;

Zabul provincial council’s chairman Ata Jan Haq Bayan said, “I have already mentioned that if the Taliban had the will to build, they should first come up with peace, sit with Afghans and build this country together.”&nbsp;

This act was also condemned by religious scholars. Mawlawi Abdul Wadood, a religious scholar, said, “Wasting public property is forbidden. Anyone, who takes over public property, must protect it and must prevent its waste.”&nbsp;

After the city of Zaranj, Nimroz province’s capital, fell to the Taliban on Friday, some people flocked to loot public property from government institutions, a TOLOnews report said.

After the city of Zaranj, Nimroz province’s capital, fell to the Taliban on Friday, some people flocked to loot public property from government institutions, a TOLOnews report said. The incident has sparked strong reaction from residents and religious scholars alike. Several videos have surfaced after the fall of Zaranj to the Taliban, where people can be seen looting different kinds of equipment from government institutions, including governor’s compound. Looting in Nimruz province as the Taliban overrun the city of Zaranj.#Nimruz #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/b9RtNwlY4Q — Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) August 6, 2021 × In another video, prisoners can be seen escaping the main provincial prison. The same happened in Sheberghan, Jawzjan’s capital in northern Afghanistan, after it was taken up by Taliban on Saturday. Presidential adviser Shahussain Murtazawi said, “This shows the Taliban has no plan for governance or for providing service to the people. This time, Talibs are following the policy of looting.” Zabul provincial council’s chairman Ata Jan Haq Bayan said, “I have already mentioned that if the Taliban had the will to build, they should first come up with peace, sit with Afghans and build this country together.” This act was also condemned by religious scholars. Mawlawi Abdul Wadood, a religious scholar, said, “Wasting public property is forbidden. Anyone, who takes over public property, must protect it and must prevent its waste.”

In Taliban-held Nimroz, public property gets ‘looted’  

Tokyo on Thursday reported another massive jump in COVID-19 cases as the government expanded restrictions to eight more regions just days before the Olympics ends.

Tokyo is already under a virus state of emergency. However, it is seeing exponential growth in cases, driven by the more contagious Delta variant.

On Thursday, the city reported a record 5,042 cases, up from 3,865 a week earlier, and 1,979 the week before that.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in a meeting said, "Infections are spreading with a speed we have never experienced before".

He added, "With the rapid increase of cases, the number of patients in serious condition, which had been contained, is growing".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-set-to-expand-coroanvirus-emergency-restrictions-amid-surge-in-hospitalisations-403056">Also read |&nbsp;Japan set to expand coroanvirus emergency restrictions amid surge in hospitalisations</a>

Six parts of Japan are under a virus emergency.

Other parts of Japan are under quasi-emergency measures, with the government expanding those restrictions to another eight areas on Thursday.

"At this point in time we really need to introduce some other kind of measures in order to tackle this situation," warned health expert Koji Wada, a professor at Japan's International University of Health and Welfare.

The spike comes with the Olympic Games in full swing in Tokyo, taking place largely without spectators. The organisers have reported 353 cases among Games staff, officials, teams and media since July 1.

Tokyo on Thursday reported another massive jump in COVID-19 cases as the government expanded restrictions to eight more regions just days before the Olympics ends.

Tokyo on Thursday reported another massive jump in COVID-19 cases as the government expanded restrictions to eight more regions just days before the Olympics ends. Tokyo is already under a virus state of emergency. However, it is seeing exponential growth in cases, driven by the more contagious Delta variant. On Thursday, the city reported a record 5,042 cases, up from 3,865 a week earlier, and 1,979 the week before that. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in a meeting said, "Infections are spreading with a speed we have never experienced before". He added, "With the rapid increase of cases, the number of patients in serious condition, which had been contained, is growing". Also read | Japan set to expand coroanvirus emergency restrictions amid surge in hospitalisations Six parts of Japan are under a virus emergency. Other parts of Japan are under quasi-emergency measures, with the government expanding those restrictions to another eight areas on Thursday. "At this point in time we really need to introduce some other kind of measures in order to tackle this situation," warned health expert Koji Wada, a professor at Japan's International University of Health and Welfare. The spike comes with the Olympic Games in full swing in Tokyo, taking place largely without spectators. The organisers have reported 353 cases among Games staff, officials, teams and media since July 1.

Covid cases in Tokyo at record high as government expands restrictions

Japan has carried out a threat to publicly shame people not complying with coronavirus border control measures, releasing the names of three people who broke quarantine rules after returning from overseas. 
 
The health ministry said late on Monday the three Japanese nationals named had clearly acted to avoid contact with authorities after recently returning from abroad. 
 
The announcement, the first of its kind, sparked a flurry of speculation among Twitter users about the details of those identified, such as their jobs and locations. 
 
Japan is asking all travellers from overseas, including its own citizens, to self-quarantine for two weeks, during which they are asked to use a location-tracking smartphone app and report on their health condition.

Japan has carried out a threat to publicly shame people not complying with coronavirus border control measures, releasing the names of three people who broke quarantine rules after returning from overseas.

Japan has carried out a threat to publicly shame people not complying with coronavirus border control measures, releasing the names of three people who broke quarantine rules after returning from overseas. The health ministry said late on Monday the three Japanese nationals named had clearly acted to avoid contact with authorities after recently returning from abroad. The announcement, the first of its kind, sparked a flurry of speculation among Twitter users about the details of those identified, such as their jobs and locations. Japan is asking all travellers from overseas, including its own citizens, to self-quarantine for two weeks, during which they are asked to use a location-tracking smartphone app and report on their health condition.

Japan government starts to 'name and shame' quarantine rule-breakers

Tunisia has been struck by a wave of riots and protests amid persistent political instability and a dismal economy, 10 years after the Arab Spring revolt for democracy.&nbsp;

On 17 December 2010, 26-year-old Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire to protest against the police and triggered an uprising.

Here is a timeline of the events that have unfolded since:

The Spark of the Jasmine Revolution 
 
<img alt="Tarek el-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c4333af-28ec-4695-9c8b-62680c840ea1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/afp.JPG" /> 
(AFP Photo) 
 
Tarek el-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi was a Tunisian street seller who set himself on fire on December 17, 2010, in Ben Arous, Tunisia, sparking the Tunisian Revolution and the Arab Spring movement against dictatorial regimes.

He set himself on fire in protest against the confiscation of his goods and the harassment and humiliation he was subjected to by a municipal official and her aides.&nbsp;

He died of his injuries on January 4, 2011.

The end of Ben Ali's rule 
 
<img alt="Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali and his wife Leila (AFP Photo)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1dbb3896-55c6-4da2-8545-b7d775fc2156" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ben.jpg" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
On January 14, ruler Zine El Abidine Ben Ali departs after weeks of rioting in which 338 people were killed, bringing an end to his 23-year reign.

In 2019, he died in exile.

He was the region's first leader to fall victim to the Arab Spring uprisings, which swept the region like wildfire.&nbsp;

Victory for Islamists

In October 2011, Tunisia's first free election saw the Islamist group Ennahdha win 89 of 217 seats in a new assembly.

It elected former opposition leader Moncef Marzouki as president in December.

Attacks, unrest

In April 2012, police clashed with thousands of jobless protesters in the southwestern mining belt.

More violent demonstrations followed in June and August, with jihadists also staging attacks.

A series of strikes and demonstrations impacted industry, public services, transport and business, with unrest mostly concentrated in the economically marginalised interior.

Opposition leaders killed 
 
<img alt="Chokri Belaid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11192721-0057-49d2-85bd-a27136aeca7c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chokri%20Belaid.jpg" /> 
 
A file photo of Chokri Belaid. (AFP Photo)

In February 2013, prominent leftist opposition leader Chokri Belaid was assassinated in Tunis.&nbsp;

In July, fellow leftist Mohamed Brahmi was also shot dead.

Islamic State (IS) jihadists claimed both killings, which fueled a crisis.

2014 Tunisian parliamentary election

A new constitution was established in January 2014.

The Islamists were&nbsp;ousted from power, and a technocratic administration was&nbsp;formed.

The secular Nidaa Tounes party, led by Beji Caid Essebsi, won parliamentary elections in October and formed a coalition with Ennahdha.

Essebsi won Tunisia's first free presidential election two months later.

Terrorist attacks in Tunisia (2015-2016)

In 2015, IS extremists claimed responsibility for three assaults in Tunisia, killing 72 people, largely foreign tourists and security personnel, at the Bardo museum in Tunis and a beach resort. 
 
<img alt="Bardo museum" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2301e75-d679-4823-8c3e-1af2bac1dd57" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bardo%20museum%20attack.JPG" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
Jihadists attacked security installations in a town near the Libyan border in 2016, killing 20 people, seven of whom were civilians.

New protests and huge political unrest

After the death of a young unemployed man during a demonstration in January 2016, a fresh wave of protests began.

After the implementation of an austerity budget in January 2018, protests erupted.

Ennahdha won the most seats in the legislative elections in October 2019, but it fell far short of the 109 needed to govern. 
 
<img alt="political unrest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2c0f9c-9afa-4e30-939a-cdc985ec5cec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9GB79Y.jpg" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
Kais Saied, a conservative scholar with no prior political experience, was elected president a week later.

MPs elected a technocratic government in September 2020.

Tunisia has had nine governments in the 10 years since the revolution, some of which only lasted a few months, obstructing the reforms needed to revive the country's ailing economy.&nbsp;

The Tunisian president suspends parliament, dismisses PM

On July 26, 2021, following a day of protests against the ruling party, Tunisian President Kais Saied ordered the suspension of the country's parliament and the dismissal of Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi.

Saied's activities are described by Ennahdha as a "coup d'etat against the revolution and the constitution."&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Tunisian president" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="625f1e68-cfe0-4bb7-a1c7-dfb8e4fc57fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9GC2ZP.jpg" />

(AFP Photo) 
 
Thousands of Tunisians had marched in numerous cities earlier in the day, condemning government failings and catastrophic coronavirus rates.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tunisia has been struck by a wave of riots and protests amid persistent political instability and a dismal economy, 10 years after the Arab Spring revolt for democracy.

Tunisia has been struck by a wave of riots and protests amid persistent political instability and a dismal economy, 10 years after the Arab Spring revolt for democracy. On 17 December 2010, 26-year-old Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire to protest against the police and triggered an uprising. Here is a timeline of the events that have unfolded since: The Spark of the Jasmine Revolution (AFP Photo) Tarek el-Tayeb Mohamed Bouazizi was a Tunisian street seller who set himself on fire on December 17, 2010, in Ben Arous, Tunisia, sparking the Tunisian Revolution and the Arab Spring movement against dictatorial regimes. He set himself on fire in protest against the confiscation of his goods and the harassment and humiliation he was subjected to by a municipal official and her aides. He died of his injuries on January 4, 2011. The end of Ben Ali's rule (AFP Photo) On January 14, ruler Zine El Abidine Ben Ali departs after weeks of rioting in which 338 people were killed, bringing an end to his 23-year reign. In 2019, he died in exile. He was the region's first leader to fall victim to the Arab Spring uprisings, which swept the region like wildfire. Victory for Islamists In October 2011, Tunisia's first free election saw the Islamist group Ennahdha win 89 of 217 seats in a new assembly. It elected former opposition leader Moncef Marzouki as president in December. Attacks, unrest In April 2012, police clashed with thousands of jobless protesters in the southwestern mining belt. More violent demonstrations followed in June and August, with jihadists also staging attacks. A series of strikes and demonstrations impacted industry, public services, transport and business, with unrest mostly concentrated in the economically marginalised interior. Opposition leaders killed A file photo of Chokri Belaid. (AFP Photo) In February 2013, prominent leftist opposition leader Chokri Belaid was assassinated in Tunis. In July, fellow leftist Mohamed Brahmi was also shot dead. Islamic State (IS) jihadists claimed both killings, which fueled a crisis. 2014 Tunisian parliamentary election A new constitution was established in January 2014. The Islamists were ousted from power, and a technocratic administration was formed. The secular Nidaa Tounes party, led by Beji Caid Essebsi, won parliamentary elections in October and formed a coalition with Ennahdha. Essebsi won Tunisia's first free presidential election two months later. Terrorist attacks in Tunisia (2015-2016) In 2015, IS extremists claimed responsibility for three assaults in Tunisia, killing 72 people, largely foreign tourists and security personnel, at the Bardo museum in Tunis and a beach resort. (AFP Photo) Jihadists attacked security installations in a town near the Libyan border in 2016, killing 20 people, seven of whom were civilians. New protests and huge political unrest After the death of a young unemployed man during a demonstration in January 2016, a fresh wave of protests began. After the implementation of an austerity budget in January 2018, protests erupted. Ennahdha won the most seats in the legislative elections in October 2019, but it fell far short of the 109 needed to govern. (AFP Photo) Kais Saied, a conservative scholar with no prior political experience, was elected president a week later. MPs elected a technocratic government in September 2020. Tunisia has had nine governments in the 10 years since the revolution, some of which only lasted a few months, obstructing the reforms needed to revive the country's ailing economy. The Tunisian president suspends parliament, dismisses PM On July 26, 2021, following a day of protests against the ruling party, Tunisian President Kais Saied ordered the suspension of the country's parliament and the dismissal of Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi. Saied's activities are described by Ennahdha as a "coup d'etat against the revolution and the constitution." (AFP Photo) Thousands of Tunisians had marched in numerous cities earlier in the day, condemning government failings and catastrophic coronavirus rates. (With inputs from agencies)

Pictures | From Jasmine Revolution to Parliament suspension: 10 years of Tunisia since its Arab Spring revolt

Tunisia's president dismissed the government and froze parliament on Sunday in a dramatic escalation of a political crisis that his opponents labelled a coup, calling their own supporters to come onto the streets in protest. 
 
President Kais Saied said he would assume executive authority with the assistance of a new prime minister, in the biggest challenge yet to the democratic system Tunisia introduced in a 2011 revolution. 
 
Crowds of people quickly flooded the capital and other cities to support Saied, cheering and honking car horns in scenes that recalled the revolution, which triggered the Arab Spring protests that convulsed the Middle East. 
 
As his supporters filled the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue, the epicentre of the 2011 revolution, Saied joined them in the street, state television pictures showed. 
 
However, the extent of backing for Saied's moves against a fragile government and divided parliament was not clear, as Parliament Speaker Rached Ghannouchi called on Tunisians to come into the streets to stop what he called a coup. 
 
Saied, in his televised statement announcing his move, had warned against any violent response. 
 
"I warn any who think of resorting to weapons... and whoever shoots a bullet, the armed forces will respond with bullets," he said in a statement carried on television. 
 
Hours after the statement, military vehicles surrounded the parliament building as people nearby cheered and sang the national anthem, two witnesses said. Local media reported that the army had also surrounded the state television building. 
 
Years of paralysis, corruption, declining state services and growing unemployment had already soured many Tunisians on their political system before the COVID-19 pandemic hammered the economy last year and coronavirus infection rates shot up this summer. 
 
Protests, called by social media activists but not backed by any of the big political parties, took place on Sunday with much of the anger focused on the moderate Islamist Ennahda party, the biggest in parliament. 
 
Ennahda, banned before the revolution, has been the most consistently successful party since 2011 and a member of successive coalition governments. 
 
Its leader the parliament speaker Ghannouchi, immediately labelled Saied's decision "a coup against the revolution and constitution" in a phone call to Reuters. 
 
"We consider the institutions still standing, and the supporters of the Ennahda and the Tunisian people will defend the revolution," he added, raising the prospect of confrontations between supporters of Ennahda and Saied. 
 
After calling for people to come onto the streets in protest in a video message later in the night, Ghannouchi said the parliament would meet in defiance of Saied`s move. 
 
The leader of another party, Karama, and former President Moncef Marzouki both joined Ennahda in calling Saied's move a coup. 
 
"I ask the Tunisian people to pay attention to the fact that they imagine this to be the beginning of the solution. It is the beginning of slipping into an even worse situation," Marzouki said in a video statement.

Tunisia's president dismissed the government and froze parliament on Sunday in a dramatic escalation of a political crisis that his opponents labelled a coup, calling their own supporters to come onto the streets in protest.

Tunisia's president dismissed the government and froze parliament on Sunday in a dramatic escalation of a political crisis that his opponents labelled a coup, calling their own supporters to come onto the streets in protest. President Kais Saied said he would assume executive authority with the assistance of a new prime minister, in the biggest challenge yet to the democratic system Tunisia introduced in a 2011 revolution. Crowds of people quickly flooded the capital and other cities to support Saied, cheering and honking car horns in scenes that recalled the revolution, which triggered the Arab Spring protests that convulsed the Middle East. As his supporters filled the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue, the epicentre of the 2011 revolution, Saied joined them in the street, state television pictures showed. However, the extent of backing for Saied's moves against a fragile government and divided parliament was not clear, as Parliament Speaker Rached Ghannouchi called on Tunisians to come into the streets to stop what he called a coup. Saied, in his televised statement announcing his move, had warned against any violent response. "I warn any who think of resorting to weapons... and whoever shoots a bullet, the armed forces will respond with bullets," he said in a statement carried on television. Hours after the statement, military vehicles surrounded the parliament building as people nearby cheered and sang the national anthem, two witnesses said. Local media reported that the army had also surrounded the state television building. Years of paralysis, corruption, declining state services and growing unemployment had already soured many Tunisians on their political system before the COVID-19 pandemic hammered the economy last year and coronavirus infection rates shot up this summer. Protests, called by social media activists but not backed by any of the big political parties, took place on Sunday with much of the anger focused on the moderate Islamist Ennahda party, the biggest in parliament. Ennahda, banned before the revolution, has been the most consistently successful party since 2011 and a member of successive coalition governments. Its leader the parliament speaker Ghannouchi, immediately labelled Saied's decision "a coup against the revolution and constitution" in a phone call to Reuters. "We consider the institutions still standing, and the supporters of the Ennahda and the Tunisian people will defend the revolution," he added, raising the prospect of confrontations between supporters of Ennahda and Saied. After calling for people to come onto the streets in protest in a video message later in the night, Ghannouchi said the parliament would meet in defiance of Saied`s move. The leader of another party, Karama, and former President Moncef Marzouki both joined Ennahda in calling Saied's move a coup. "I ask the Tunisian people to pay attention to the fact that they imagine this to be the beginning of the solution. It is the beginning of slipping into an even worse situation," Marzouki said in a video statement.

Tunisian president ousts government, critics call move a coup

In what could be termed as a harsh measure to&nbsp;encourage vaccination,&nbsp;the Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has been asked officially by the regional, Sindh government,&nbsp;to block the mobile phone&nbsp;sims and social media accounts of unvaccinated users on Saturday,&nbsp;a report by The News said.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Sindh Government has apprised the national coordinator of the NCOC&nbsp;in a letter&nbsp;about the decision of the blocking of mobile sims. It was&nbsp;taken during the Provincial Corona Task Force meeting, which was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

The task force recommended sims' blocking in a phased manner. In the first,&nbsp;a warning message will be&nbsp;issued by the&nbsp;government. After it,&nbsp;blocking of&nbsp;social media accounts will be carried out. In the next phase,&nbsp;the outgoing calls will be blocked and, in the end,&nbsp;the SIM will be completely blocked until&nbsp;inoculation.

The letter reads,&nbsp;“It is, therefore, requested that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority be directed to take necessary measures accordingly for a successful vaccination drive to break the transmission chain of COVID-19.”

Earlier, Adviser to Chief Minister Murtaza Wahab had&nbsp;tweeted about the&nbsp;Sindh government's plan to&nbsp;write to the NCOC and the PTA on blocking the sims.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what could be termed as a harsh measure to encourage vaccination, the Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has been asked officially by the regional, Sindh government, to block the mobile phone sims and social media accounts of unvaccinated users on Saturday, a report by The News said.

In what could be termed as a harsh measure to encourage vaccination, the Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has been asked officially by the regional, Sindh government, to block the mobile phone sims and social media accounts of unvaccinated users on Saturday, a report by The News said. The Sindh Government has apprised the national coordinator of the NCOC in a letter about the decision of the blocking of mobile sims. It was taken during the Provincial Corona Task Force meeting, which was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The task force recommended sims' blocking in a phased manner. In the first, a warning message will be issued by the government. After it, blocking of social media accounts will be carried out. In the next phase, the outgoing calls will be blocked and, in the end, the SIM will be completely blocked until inoculation. The letter reads, “It is, therefore, requested that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority be directed to take necessary measures accordingly for a successful vaccination drive to break the transmission chain of COVID-19.” Earlier, Adviser to Chief Minister Murtaza Wahab had tweeted about the Sindh government's plan to write to the NCOC and the PTA on blocking the sims. (With inputs from agencies)

Block sims, social media accounts of unvaccinated people, Pakistan's Sindh govt asks NCOC

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