Seven Australian women who were strip-searched and forced to undergo invasive gynaecological examinations at the Doha airport last year are mulling to sue the Qatar government.

Damian Sturzaker, from Sydney-based Marque Lawyers, said on Monday that his clients were seeking compensation “for the fact that they were effected at the time and continue to suffer”.

The women alleged that they were ordered to disembark from the flight to Sydney and were checked whether they had given birth after a baby was found in a plastic bag bin at Hamad Airport in October 2020.

Describing their experience as “state-sanctioned assault”, the women said they did not give consent to the examinations and were not given explanations for what was happening to them.

The women, aged from their early 30s to late 50s, claimed that the examinations lasted about five minutes before they were escorted back to their flight.

The incident came to the fore when the women reported the matter to police after landing in Australia, sparking public attention and condemnation from several nations.

After the Australian government decried the incident, Qatar apologised and handed a suspended jail term for one airport official.

At the time, Qatar's Prime Minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani tweeted an apology saying, “We regret the unacceptable treatment of the female passengers... What took place does not reflect Qatar's laws or values.”

But the women say their cases have been ignored since then.

One of the women, who did not wish to be named, told the BBC she was “subjected to the most horrifically invasive physical exam”.

“I was certain that I was either going to be killed by one of the many men that had a gun, or that my husband on the plane was going to be killed,” she said in a statement from her lawyer.

Meanwhile, the airline has denied liability while the Qatar government said it was considering the women’s claim, Sturzaker said.

“We don’t hold out much hope in relation to anything other than a rejection of the claim,” Sturzaker said, indicating that the claim would go to trial.

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven Australian women who were strip-searched and forced to undergo invasive gynaecological examinations at the Doha airport last year are mulling to sue the Qatar government.

Seven Australian women who were strip-searched and forced to undergo invasive gynaecological examinations at the Doha airport last year are mulling to sue the Qatar government. Damian Sturzaker, from Sydney-based Marque Lawyers, said on Monday that his clients were seeking compensation “for the fact that they were effected at the time and continue to suffer”. The women alleged that they were ordered to disembark from the flight to Sydney and were checked whether they had given birth after a baby was found in a plastic bag bin at Hamad Airport in October 2020. Describing their experience as “state-sanctioned assault”, the women said they did not give consent to the examinations and were not given explanations for what was happening to them. The women, aged from their early 30s to late 50s, claimed that the examinations lasted about five minutes before they were escorted back to their flight. The incident came to the fore when the women reported the matter to police after landing in Australia, sparking public attention and condemnation from several nations. After the Australian government decried the incident, Qatar apologised and handed a suspended jail term for one airport official. At the time, Qatar's Prime Minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani tweeted an apology saying, “We regret the unacceptable treatment of the female passengers... What took place does not reflect Qatar's laws or values.” But the women say their cases have been ignored since then. One of the women, who did not wish to be named, told the BBC she was “subjected to the most horrifically invasive physical exam”. “I was certain that I was either going to be killed by one of the many men that had a gun, or that my husband on the plane was going to be killed,” she said in a statement from her lawyer. Meanwhile, the airline has denied liability while the Qatar government said it was considering the women’s claim, Sturzaker said. “We don’t hold out much hope in relation to anything other than a rejection of the claim,” Sturzaker said, indicating that the claim would go to trial. (With inputs from agencies)

7 Australian women to sue Qatar govt for ‘invasive’ strip search at Doha airport

Qatar is not considering normalizing ties with Syria and hopes other countries will be discouraged from taking further steps with President Bashar al-Assad's government, foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said on Friday.

Qatar's Foreign Minister voiced halt to normalization with Syria

Qatar will act as the United States' diplomatic representative in Afghanistan following the shuttering of its embassy during the Taliban takeover.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Friday that the country had signed an accord with Qatar to set up an interests section in Afghanistan.

The accord acts as an important signal of possible future direct engagement between Washington and the Taliban after two decades of war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/troika-plus-pakistans-foreign-minister-says-afghanistan-at-brink-of-economic-collapse-428506" hreflang="en">Pakistan's foreign minister says Afghanistan at 'brink of economic collapse'</a>

Blinken said ''Qatar will establish a US interest section within its embassy in Afghanistan to provide certain consular services and monitor the condition and security of US diplomatic facilities in Afghanistan.''

"Let me again say how grateful we are for your leadership, your support on Afghanistan, but also to note that our partnership is much broader than that," Blinken told Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani.

The new agreement will into effect on December 31. It comes as the United States and other Western countries grapple with how to engage with the hardline Islamists.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-easily-won-afghanistan-because-300000-strong-army-did-not-exist-ex-finance-minister-428379" hreflang="en">Taliban took Kabul as 300,000-strong army didn't exist : Ex-Afghan minister</a>

Qatar, home to a major US military base, has played a major role both in the diplomacy and the evacuations as the United States ended its 20-year war in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Around half of the 124,000 Westerners and Western-allied Afghans flown out in the waning days of the US military involvement transited through Qatar.&nbsp;

Since the Taliban takeover, US embassy operations in Kabul have been relocated to Qatar.&nbsp;

The United States, European countries and others are reluctant to formally recognise the Pashtun-dominated Taliban, accusing them of backtracking on pledges of political and ethnic inclusivity and to uphold the rights of women and minorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

Qatar will act as the United States' diplomatic representative in Afghanistan following the shuttering of its embassy during the Taliban takeover. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Friday that the country had signed an accord with Qatar to set up an interests section in Afghanistan.

Qatar will act as the United States' diplomatic representative in Afghanistan following the shuttering of its embassy during the Taliban takeover. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Friday that the country had signed an accord with Qatar to set up an interests section in Afghanistan. The accord acts as an important signal of possible future direct engagement between Washington and the Taliban after two decades of war. Also read | Pakistan's foreign minister says Afghanistan at 'brink of economic collapse' Blinken said ''Qatar will establish a US interest section within its embassy in Afghanistan to provide certain consular services and monitor the condition and security of US diplomatic facilities in Afghanistan.'' "Let me again say how grateful we are for your leadership, your support on Afghanistan, but also to note that our partnership is much broader than that," Blinken told Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani. The new agreement will into effect on December 31. It comes as the United States and other Western countries grapple with how to engage with the hardline Islamists. Also read | Taliban took Kabul as 300,000-strong army didn't exist : Ex-Afghan minister Qatar, home to a major US military base, has played a major role both in the diplomacy and the evacuations as the United States ended its 20-year war in Afghanistan. Around half of the 124,000 Westerners and Western-allied Afghans flown out in the waning days of the US military involvement transited through Qatar. Since the Taliban takeover, US embassy operations in Kabul have been relocated to Qatar. The United States, European countries and others are reluctant to formally recognise the Pashtun-dominated Taliban, accusing them of backtracking on pledges of political and ethnic inclusivity and to uphold the rights of women and minorities. (With inputs from agencies)

'Protecting power': Qatar to act as US diplomatic representative in Afghanistan

The qualifying for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia is set to continue in Doha with five teams set to compete in the T20 World Cup Asia A Qualifier from October 23, 2021 onwards. 
 
Hosts Qatar are joined by Bahrain, Kuwait, Maldives and Saudi Arabia with one place in the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier up for grabs. 
 
It's the first time an ICC event is being staged in Qatar, with the matches to be hosted at the Asian Town Cricket Stadium. 
 
Qatar (21) enter the event as the highest ranked side on the ICC Men`s T20I Team Rankings, with Kuwait (27), Saudi Arabia (28), Bahrain (43) and Maldives (74) all aiming to qualify for the T20 World Cup for the first time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-hardik-pandya-or-rishabh-pant-wasim-akram-names-indias-gamechanger-ahead-of-pakistan-t20-wc-face-off-422995">Not Hardik Pandya or Rishabh Pant! Wasim Akram names India's gamechanger ahead of Pakistan T20 WC face-off</a>

In all, there will be 10 matches, with each team playing each other once in the round-robin format. The event will also complete the Asia regional finals with Nepal, Singapore, UAE, Hong Kong and The Philippines already through to the Global Qualifier. 
 
Qatar captain, Iqbal Hussain Chaudhry, said: "It's a great feeling, we are all pumped up and working hard for the event. We know it`s a big tournament and we've been through this stage before. The last time we played Asia qualifiers we beat higher ranked teams but one mishap and we didn`t make it into the Global Qualifiers. We are glad that we are hosting a major ICC tournament in Qatar, which is the path to Australia 2022 and we will put up a good show for our nation and cricket lovers over the globe." 
 
Bahrain captain, Anasim Khan said, "The ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Asia is a big opportunity for Bahrain and all teams to play at the top level. It will be a dream come true to play in Australia next year. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to earn a place in a historic World Cup qualifying round. We are a team which can bring surprises."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/redemption-time-they-insulted-us-by-abandoning-tour-shoaib-akhtar-awaits-pakistan-new-zealand-t20-wc-tie-423016">Redemption time! They insulted us by abandoning tour: Shoaib Akhtar awaits Pakistan-New Zealand T20 WC tie</a>

FIXTURES 
 
23 October - Qatar vs Bahrain; Maldives vs Saudi Arabia 
 
24 October - Bahrain vs Kuwait; Qatar vs Maldives 
 
25 October - Kuwait vs Saudi Arabia 
 
27 October - Bahrain vs Maldives; Qatar vs Saudi Arabia 
 
28 October - Maldives vs Kuwait; Saudi Arabia vs Bahrain 
 
29 October - Kuwait vs Qatar.

The qualifying for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia is set to continue in Doha with five teams set to compete in the T20 World Cup Asia A Qualifier from October 23, 2021 onwards.

The qualifying for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia is set to continue in Doha with five teams set to compete in the T20 World Cup Asia A Qualifier from October 23, 2021 onwards. Hosts Qatar are joined by Bahrain, Kuwait, Maldives and Saudi Arabia with one place in the ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier up for grabs. It's the first time an ICC event is being staged in Qatar, with the matches to be hosted at the Asian Town Cricket Stadium. Qatar (21) enter the event as the highest ranked side on the ICC Men`s T20I Team Rankings, with Kuwait (27), Saudi Arabia (28), Bahrain (43) and Maldives (74) all aiming to qualify for the T20 World Cup for the first time. ALSO READ | Not Hardik Pandya or Rishabh Pant! Wasim Akram names India's gamechanger ahead of Pakistan T20 WC face-off In all, there will be 10 matches, with each team playing each other once in the round-robin format. The event will also complete the Asia regional finals with Nepal, Singapore, UAE, Hong Kong and The Philippines already through to the Global Qualifier. Qatar captain, Iqbal Hussain Chaudhry, said: "It's a great feeling, we are all pumped up and working hard for the event. We know it`s a big tournament and we've been through this stage before. The last time we played Asia qualifiers we beat higher ranked teams but one mishap and we didn`t make it into the Global Qualifiers. We are glad that we are hosting a major ICC tournament in Qatar, which is the path to Australia 2022 and we will put up a good show for our nation and cricket lovers over the globe." Bahrain captain, Anasim Khan said, "The ICC Men`s T20 World Cup Asia is a big opportunity for Bahrain and all teams to play at the top level. It will be a dream come true to play in Australia next year. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to earn a place in a historic World Cup qualifying round. We are a team which can bring surprises." ALSO READ | Redemption time! They insulted us by abandoning tour: Shoaib Akhtar awaits Pakistan-New Zealand T20 WC tie FIXTURES 23 October - Qatar vs Bahrain; Maldives vs Saudi Arabia 24 October - Bahrain vs Kuwait; Qatar vs Maldives 25 October - Kuwait vs Saudi Arabia 27 October - Bahrain vs Maldives; Qatar vs Saudi Arabia 28 October - Maldives vs Kuwait; Saudi Arabia vs Bahrain 29 October - Kuwait vs Qatar.

Qatar set to host ICC qualifying event as part of road to T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia

Women voters voiced disappointment Sunday after none were elected in Qatar's first legislative polls with all eyes on whether the emir will use his powers to appoint 15 lawmakers to boost representation.

Thirty men were elected to Qatar's Shura Council at Saturday's polls despite more than two dozen women standing for the body which is seen as a nod to democracy rather than a fully-fledged parliament.

"I'm not happy because all of them (winners) are men -&nbsp;some of them are old. To be honest, I was surprised. It's not fair," said voter Shamma who declined to give her full name.

"We are really sad."

She said she was hopeful that the emir would choose women among his 15 direct appointments to offset the imbalance.

It is not known when the emir's appointments will be announced or when the council will meet.

"Five seats for women will be enough because I believe one woman can change the world," Shamma told AFP.

Of the 284 hopefuls who went into the race for the 30 available council seats, just 28 were women although the final proportion after a number of eleventh-hour candidate withdrawals has not been published.

"You lost the battle of victory, but you won the war of participation!" popular Qatari author Ebtesam al-Saad wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

Several analysts had suggested the emir could directly appoint women "to improve the gender balance" if none were elected -- similar to what happened in Bahrain's legislative election.

Official sources had confirmed to AFP this was a likely outcome in the event no women succeeded at the ballot box.

The final voter turnout was 63.5 per cent according to official data.

Qatar touts the level of representation enjoyed by its women with the health ministry led by a woman and the foreign ministry represented by a spokeswoman.

Women also hold prominent roles in the World Cup organising committee as well as philanthropy and the arts, medicine, law and business.

But in March, Human Rights Watch accused Qatar of restricting the lives of its female population through unclear "guardianship" rules requiring adult women to obtain male approval for everyday activities.

The constitution of Qatar, a conservative Muslim Gulf state, provides for "equal opportunities for all citizens".

The Shura will be allowed to propose legislation, approve the budget and recall ministers, but the all-powerful emir will wield a veto.

Women voters voiced disappointment Sunday after none were elected in Qatar's first legislative polls with all eyes on whether the emir will use his powers to appoint 15 lawmakers to boost representation.

Women voters voiced disappointment Sunday after none were elected in Qatar's first legislative polls with all eyes on whether the emir will use his powers to appoint 15 lawmakers to boost representation. Thirty men were elected to Qatar's Shura Council at Saturday's polls despite more than two dozen women standing for the body which is seen as a nod to democracy rather than a fully-fledged parliament. "I'm not happy because all of them (winners) are men - some of them are old. To be honest, I was surprised. It's not fair," said voter Shamma who declined to give her full name. "We are really sad." She said she was hopeful that the emir would choose women among his 15 direct appointments to offset the imbalance. It is not known when the emir's appointments will be announced or when the council will meet. "Five seats for women will be enough because I believe one woman can change the world," Shamma told AFP. Of the 284 hopefuls who went into the race for the 30 available council seats, just 28 were women although the final proportion after a number of eleventh-hour candidate withdrawals has not been published. "You lost the battle of victory, but you won the war of participation!" popular Qatari author Ebtesam al-Saad wrote on Twitter. Several analysts had suggested the emir could directly appoint women "to improve the gender balance" if none were elected -- similar to what happened in Bahrain's legislative election. Official sources had confirmed to AFP this was a likely outcome in the event no women succeeded at the ballot box. The final voter turnout was 63.5 per cent according to official data. Qatar touts the level of representation enjoyed by its women with the health ministry led by a woman and the foreign ministry represented by a spokeswoman. Women also hold prominent roles in the World Cup organising committee as well as philanthropy and the arts, medicine, law and business. But in March, Human Rights Watch accused Qatar of restricting the lives of its female population through unclear "guardianship" rules requiring adult women to obtain male approval for everyday activities. The constitution of Qatar, a conservative Muslim Gulf state, provides for "equal opportunities for all citizens". The Shura will be allowed to propose legislation, approve the budget and recall ministers, but the all-powerful emir will wield a veto.

Disappointment in Qatar as no women candidates elected

The Taliban foreign minister hosted a group of political ambassadors in Kabul. Envoys from China, Pakistan Russia attended this meet, the country who's envoy was missing was from Qatar.

Afghanistan Crisis: Growing fiction between Qatar and Taliban?

Qataris began voting in the emirate's first legislative election Saturday in a symbolic nod to democracy that analysts say will not lead to power shifting away from the ruling family.&nbsp;

The vote is for 30 members of the 45-strong Shura Council, a body with limited powers that was previously appointed by the emir as an advisory chamber.

Polls opened at 0500 GMT and will close at 1500 GMT with the results expected the same day.

At a polling station in the Jawaan bin Jassim school in the Onaiza district of the capital Doha, Qatari citizens wearing white thobes signed in to vote at a registration desk.

After queueing briefly, they cast their ballots into a semi-transparent plastic box emblazoned with the dhow boat, crossed swords and palm tree emblem of Qatar.

Observers say the decision to hold the election, required under the 2004 constitution but repeatedly delayed in the "national interest", comes amid heightened scrutiny as Qatar prepares to host the 2022 World Cup.

"It's a way to show that they are moving in the right direction, that they want to achieve more political participation" before the World Cup, said Luciano Zaccara, an assistant professor in Gulf politics at Qatar University.

The Shura will be allowed to propose legislation, approve the budget and recall ministers. But the emir, all-powerful in the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, will wield a veto.

"This is a historic day to participate, choose and vote in the first elected Shura Council, and I feel very happy... I hope that the next council will keep pace with the developments that Qatar and the world are experiencing," voter Ali Abdullah al-Khulaifi, 44, told AFP.

The streets of Qatar's towns have been speckled with billboards adorned with beaming candidates sporting national dress.

Beyond single-candidate town hall meetings, posters and TV spots, the country's introduction to democracy has been limited, with no change of government possible and political parties outlawed.

Candidates have uniformly avoided debate about Qatar's foreign policy or status as a monarchy, instead focussing on social issues including healthcare, education and citizenship rights.&nbsp;

'Deliver our voice'

All candidates had to be approved by the powerful interior ministry against a host of criteria, including age, character and criminal history.

Candidates have also been required to register official campaign events with the ministry in advance, as well as the names of all speakers as authorities seek to clamp down on possible sectarianism or tribalism.

The candidates are mostly men, with just 28 women among the 284 hopefuls running for the 30 available council seats. The remaining 15 seats will be appointed by the emir.

One woman casting her ballot Saturday, Sabeeka Yousef, said she was not concerned about this imbalance.

"The most important thing for me in this process is to choose a candidate who is able to deliver our voice," she said.

Most of Qatar's 2.5 million residents are foreigners, ineligible to vote.

Candidates have to stand in electoral divisions linked to where their family or tribe was based in the 1930s, using data compiled by the then-British authorities.

Diplomatic sources suggest families and tribes have already conducted internal ballots to determine who will be elected for their constituencies.

"When you don't have political parties... people sometimes will tend to vote for people they know, or for members of family or members of tribe," said Courtney Freer, a fellow at Emory College.

Qataris number about 333,000, but only descendants of those who were citizens in 1930 are eligible to vote and stand, disqualifying members of families naturalised since then.

Some members of the sizeable Al-Murrah tribe are among those excluded from the electoral process, sparking a fierce debate online.

Qataris began voting in the emirate's first legislative election Saturday in a symbolic nod to democracy that analysts say will not lead to power shifting away from the ruling family.

Qataris began voting in the emirate's first legislative election Saturday in a symbolic nod to democracy that analysts say will not lead to power shifting away from the ruling family. The vote is for 30 members of the 45-strong Shura Council, a body with limited powers that was previously appointed by the emir as an advisory chamber. Polls opened at 0500 GMT and will close at 1500 GMT with the results expected the same day. At a polling station in the Jawaan bin Jassim school in the Onaiza district of the capital Doha, Qatari citizens wearing white thobes signed in to vote at a registration desk. After queueing briefly, they cast their ballots into a semi-transparent plastic box emblazoned with the dhow boat, crossed swords and palm tree emblem of Qatar. Observers say the decision to hold the election, required under the 2004 constitution but repeatedly delayed in the "national interest", comes amid heightened scrutiny as Qatar prepares to host the 2022 World Cup. "It's a way to show that they are moving in the right direction, that they want to achieve more political participation" before the World Cup, said Luciano Zaccara, an assistant professor in Gulf politics at Qatar University. The Shura will be allowed to propose legislation, approve the budget and recall ministers. But the emir, all-powerful in the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, will wield a veto. "This is a historic day to participate, choose and vote in the first elected Shura Council, and I feel very happy... I hope that the next council will keep pace with the developments that Qatar and the world are experiencing," voter Ali Abdullah al-Khulaifi, 44, told AFP. The streets of Qatar's towns have been speckled with billboards adorned with beaming candidates sporting national dress. Beyond single-candidate town hall meetings, posters and TV spots, the country's introduction to democracy has been limited, with no change of government possible and political parties outlawed. Candidates have uniformly avoided debate about Qatar's foreign policy or status as a monarchy, instead focussing on social issues including healthcare, education and citizenship rights. 'Deliver our voice' All candidates had to be approved by the powerful interior ministry against a host of criteria, including age, character and criminal history. Candidates have also been required to register official campaign events with the ministry in advance, as well as the names of all speakers as authorities seek to clamp down on possible sectarianism or tribalism. The candidates are mostly men, with just 28 women among the 284 hopefuls running for the 30 available council seats. The remaining 15 seats will be appointed by the emir. One woman casting her ballot Saturday, Sabeeka Yousef, said she was not concerned about this imbalance. "The most important thing for me in this process is to choose a candidate who is able to deliver our voice," she said. Most of Qatar's 2.5 million residents are foreigners, ineligible to vote. Candidates have to stand in electoral divisions linked to where their family or tribe was based in the 1930s, using data compiled by the then-British authorities. Diplomatic sources suggest families and tribes have already conducted internal ballots to determine who will be elected for their constituencies. "When you don't have political parties... people sometimes will tend to vote for people they know, or for members of family or members of tribe," said Courtney Freer, a fellow at Emory College. Qataris number about 333,000, but only descendants of those who were citizens in 1930 are eligible to vote and stand, disqualifying members of families naturalised since then. Some members of the sizeable Al-Murrah tribe are among those excluded from the electoral process, sparking a fierce debate online.

Qataris vote in subdued first legislative election

Qatar’s first legislative polls for two-thirds of the advisory Shura Council will be held on October 2 . Watch this report for more details.

Qatar to hold its first legislative poll on Oct 2

Qatar’s foreign minister Abdulrahman held talks with the prime minister of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan during a visit to the war-torn country. It is being seen as the highest diplomatic level delegation to visit Kabul since the Taliban announced their interim Cabinet.

Qatar's foreign minister visits Taliban-ruled Afghanistan

Qatar’s foreign minister Abdulrahman held talks with the prime minister of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan in the highest-level foreign visit to Kabul since the group seized the capital last month.

Qatar FM Abdulrahman visits Kabul for talks with Taliban

Qatari foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani held talks with Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund in Kabul, according to reports.

Mohammed met the prime minister and a number of other senior ministers, a Taliban spokesman said on Sunday.

“The meeting focused on bilateral relations, humanitarian assistance, economic development and interaction with the world,” according to a statement from Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen.

Shaheen said the leadership of the Islamic Emirate, the term used to describe the Taliban government in Afghanistan, thanked the Qatar government for supporting the Afghan people.

It said the Doha agreement, signed by the United States and the Taliban, was a “landmark achievement, all sides should adhere to its implementation.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/panjshir-for-kashmir-a-sinister-plan-of-pakistan-and-the-taliban-411953">Panjshir for Kashmir: A sinister plan of Pakistan and the Taliban</a>

Sunday’s meeting in the presidential palace, first reported by Al Jazeera television, was attended by a number of other Afghan ministers including deputy Prime Minister Abdul Salam Hanafi, Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Defence Minister Yaqoob Mujahid, Interor Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and intelligence chief Abdul Haq Wasiq.

Qatar is considered one of the countries with the most influence over the Taliban and played a pivotal role in the massive US-led airlift of its own citizens, other Western nationals and Afghans who helped Western countries

The Qatari capital Doha was also the home of the Taliban’s political office which oversaw the negotiations with the United States that eventually led to the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Qatari foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani held talks with Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund in Kabul, according to reports.

Qatari foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani held talks with Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund in Kabul, according to reports. Mohammed met the prime minister and a number of other senior ministers, a Taliban spokesman said on Sunday. “The meeting focused on bilateral relations, humanitarian assistance, economic development and interaction with the world,” according to a statement from Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen. Shaheen said the leadership of the Islamic Emirate, the term used to describe the Taliban government in Afghanistan, thanked the Qatar government for supporting the Afghan people. It said the Doha agreement, signed by the United States and the Taliban, was a “landmark achievement, all sides should adhere to its implementation.” Also read | Panjshir for Kashmir: A sinister plan of Pakistan and the Taliban Sunday’s meeting in the presidential palace, first reported by Al Jazeera television, was attended by a number of other Afghan ministers including deputy Prime Minister Abdul Salam Hanafi, Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Defence Minister Yaqoob Mujahid, Interor Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and intelligence chief Abdul Haq Wasiq. Qatar is considered one of the countries with the most influence over the Taliban and played a pivotal role in the massive US-led airlift of its own citizens, other Western nationals and Afghans who helped Western countries The Qatari capital Doha was also the home of the Taliban’s political office which oversaw the negotiations with the United States that eventually led to the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar foreign minister visits Kabul, meets Taliban PM: Reports

The daily life of unaccompanied Afghan refugee children in Qatar is punctuated by recurring questions, "where are we going?" and "can I have some chips".

About 200 uprooted young Afghans arrived in Doha aboard flights from Kabul in recent weeks and are being hosted at a reception centre, where they grapple with the trauma of their ordeal.

They are now being cared for by Qatar Charity, a humanitarian organisation that has sought to protect and keep them out of the reach of people traffickers.

Officials are picking a path for the future of the children who have adopted new routines, playing football, exercising and enjoying arts and crafts.

"It's very hard to imagine the trauma that they've been through," said an aid worker based in the Middle East who declined to be named.

"All of them are in a state of shock and trauma, similar to what we've seen in places like Iraq or Syria with kids who have lived in (Islamic State group) areas."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-strike-may-have-killed-aid-worker-children-and-not-isis-k-militants-reports-412228" hreflang="en">US drone strike may have killed aid worker, and not ISIS-K militants: Report</a>

The Taliban's shock takeover rekindled fears among Afghanistan's people of a return to the hardline rule between 1996 and 2001 which was marked by public executions, floggings and amputations for misdemeanours.

Many fled, including the youngsters, some of whom cannot recall the circumstances of their abrupt departure from their homeland, while others give contradictory accounts of how they came to be in Qatar.

According to the UN children's agency UNICEF, around 300 unaccompanied children were evacuated from Afghanistan to Qatar, Germany and other countries after August 14.

Desperate scramble

Questions are swirling about how they came to be at Kabul's airport and then embark on planes bound for Qatar, and drastically different lives, but answers are in short supply.

The US Embassy in Doha did not comment on the specifics of the children's case.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/another-successful-rescue-flight-from-afghanistan-saves-32-people-from-talibans-rule-412230">Another successful rescue flight from Afghanistan saves 32 people</a>

A French police officer who was present at the Kabul airport gates described seeing a woman "desperately throw her baby into the barbed wire towards the French special forces who recovered and handed the child to American medics".

"The baby was treated and evacuated to Doha. He was really tiny. His mother just disappeared into the crowd," he added.

The officer witnessed other dramatic scenes.

"One man arrived at the gate with three young children who he passed off as his own. They were orphans, he probably used them to get the gate open, but they were also evacuated.

"Stories like that highlight the chaos. They'll be part of the history of this fiasco."

Qatar Charity and other agencies are now taking care of the group who are mostly aged between eight and 17 years old, with the youngest housed at a separate facility.

In Doha, children were settled at accommodations, to which AFP was not granted access, and grouped by age or family group if they arrived together.

As far as possible they were also grouped according to the friendships and bonds forged during their respective journeys.

'Safe community'

"They can get attached to other children very quickly. They feel things stronger than anyone," Fatima-Zahra Bakkari, a Moroccan in charge of international cooperation for Qatar Charity.

She singled out two children aged 12 and 13 who had become inseparable in just over a week.

When the older child learnt that they were soon to move on, he offered to move out of the younger child's bedroom so they could prepare for possibly never seeing one another again.

"We all cry a lot," Bakkari said about the aid workers. "We laugh a lot too," she added recounting the occasional child waking up to "steal" a packet of crisps.

Despite their homely surroundings, the youngsters still face uncertainty.

"We tell them the time will come, we don't know when but it will come," for them to move on, said Bakkari.

Children separated from their parents are "among the most vulnerable children in the world", according to Henrietta Fore, head of UNICEF.

"It is vital that they are quickly identified and kept safe during family tracing and reunification processes."

Qatar has provided shelter, physical and psychological care, food and emotional attention.

"Then comes the delicate part," said the humanitarian official who requested anonymity.

"The-best case scenario is we manage to find first-degree relatives, a grandmother, an aunt, an uncle. But in many cases we might not be able to do that."

Qatar Charity has set up a hotline for the children to call their relatives, but for those with no one to call their carers will need to ensure they are looked after in the long-term.

"Then eventually the child can integrate in a safe community so they are equipped with the things they need to become a normal adult," the aid worker added.

The daily life of unaccompanied Afghan refugee children in Qatar is punctuated by recurring questions, "where are we going?" and "can I have some chips". About 200 uprooted young Afghans arrived in Doha aboard flights from Kabul in recent weeks and are being hosted at a reception centre, where they grapple with the trauma of their ordeal.

The daily life of unaccompanied Afghan refugee children in Qatar is punctuated by recurring questions, "where are we going?" and "can I have some chips". About 200 uprooted young Afghans arrived in Doha aboard flights from Kabul in recent weeks and are being hosted at a reception centre, where they grapple with the trauma of their ordeal. They are now being cared for by Qatar Charity, a humanitarian organisation that has sought to protect and keep them out of the reach of people traffickers. Officials are picking a path for the future of the children who have adopted new routines, playing football, exercising and enjoying arts and crafts. "It's very hard to imagine the trauma that they've been through," said an aid worker based in the Middle East who declined to be named. "All of them are in a state of shock and trauma, similar to what we've seen in places like Iraq or Syria with kids who have lived in (Islamic State group) areas." Also read | US drone strike may have killed aid worker, and not ISIS-K militants: Report The Taliban's shock takeover rekindled fears among Afghanistan's people of a return to the hardline rule between 1996 and 2001 which was marked by public executions, floggings and amputations for misdemeanours. Many fled, including the youngsters, some of whom cannot recall the circumstances of their abrupt departure from their homeland, while others give contradictory accounts of how they came to be in Qatar. According to the UN children's agency UNICEF, around 300 unaccompanied children were evacuated from Afghanistan to Qatar, Germany and other countries after August 14. Desperate scramble Questions are swirling about how they came to be at Kabul's airport and then embark on planes bound for Qatar, and drastically different lives, but answers are in short supply. The US Embassy in Doha did not comment on the specifics of the children's case. Also read | Another successful rescue flight from Afghanistan saves 32 people A French police officer who was present at the Kabul airport gates described seeing a woman "desperately throw her baby into the barbed wire towards the French special forces who recovered and handed the child to American medics". "The baby was treated and evacuated to Doha. He was really tiny. His mother just disappeared into the crowd," he added. The officer witnessed other dramatic scenes. "One man arrived at the gate with three young children who he passed off as his own. They were orphans, he probably used them to get the gate open, but they were also evacuated. "Stories like that highlight the chaos. They'll be part of the history of this fiasco." Qatar Charity and other agencies are now taking care of the group who are mostly aged between eight and 17 years old, with the youngest housed at a separate facility. In Doha, children were settled at accommodations, to which AFP was not granted access, and grouped by age or family group if they arrived together. As far as possible they were also grouped according to the friendships and bonds forged during their respective journeys. 'Safe community' "They can get attached to other children very quickly. They feel things stronger than anyone," Fatima-Zahra Bakkari, a Moroccan in charge of international cooperation for Qatar Charity. She singled out two children aged 12 and 13 who had become inseparable in just over a week. When the older child learnt that they were soon to move on, he offered to move out of the younger child's bedroom so they could prepare for possibly never seeing one another again. "We all cry a lot," Bakkari said about the aid workers. "We laugh a lot too," she added recounting the occasional child waking up to "steal" a packet of crisps. Despite their homely surroundings, the youngsters still face uncertainty. "We tell them the time will come, we don't know when but it will come," for them to move on, said Bakkari. Children separated from their parents are "among the most vulnerable children in the world", according to Henrietta Fore, head of UNICEF. "It is vital that they are quickly identified and kept safe during family tracing and reunification processes." Qatar has provided shelter, physical and psychological care, food and emotional attention. "Then comes the delicate part," said the humanitarian official who requested anonymity. "The-best case scenario is we manage to find first-degree relatives, a grandmother, an aunt, an uncle. But in many cases we might not be able to do that." Qatar Charity has set up a hotline for the children to call their relatives, but for those with no one to call their carers will need to ensure they are looked after in the long-term. "Then eventually the child can integrate in a safe community so they are equipped with the things they need to become a normal adult," the aid worker added.

Unaccompanied children evacuated from Afghanistan in Qatar limbo

Qatar's ruling Emir and the visiting US&nbsp;secretaries of state and defense discussed developments in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cpec-is-useful-look-forward-to-implementing-afghanistans-part-taliban-411279">Afghanistan&nbsp;</a>and efforts to enhance security there, the Emir's court said on Monday.

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani&nbsp;received US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin after their arrival in Doha earlier in the day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-americans-leave-afghanistan-by-land-us-diplomats-receive-nationals-411251">Also Read:&nbsp;Four Americans leave Afghanistan by land; US diplomats receive nationals</a>

The visit came as Washington sought support for the evacuation of Americans and "at-risk" Afghans left behind in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;after the Taliban takeover and for building a consensus among allies on how to respond to the Taliban.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement Blinken and Austin thanked al-Thani "for Qatar’s extraordinary support in facilitating the safe transit of US&nbsp;citizens, our partners, and other Afghans at-risk."

Price added they discussed other "bilateral issues and initiatives to promote regional security and prosperity."

Qatar's ruling Emir and the visiting US secretaries of state and defense discussed developments in Afghanistan and efforts to enhance security there, the Emir's court said on Monday.

Qatar's ruling Emir and the visiting US secretaries of state and defense discussed developments in Afghanistan and efforts to enhance security there, the Emir's court said on Monday. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani received US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin after their arrival in Doha earlier in the day. Also Read: Four Americans leave Afghanistan by land; US diplomats receive nationals The visit came as Washington sought support for the evacuation of Americans and "at-risk" Afghans left behind in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover and for building a consensus among allies on how to respond to the Taliban. State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement Blinken and Austin thanked al-Thani "for Qatar’s extraordinary support in facilitating the safe transit of US citizens, our partners, and other Afghans at-risk." Price added they discussed other "bilateral issues and initiatives to promote regional security and prosperity."

Blinken discusses transit of US citizens from Afghanistan with Qatar's Emir

Amid the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan, US Secy of State, Antony Blinken thanked Qatar for supporting US evacuations. 'No country has done more than Qatar,' he said. 'Qatar served 10,000 meals, 3 times a day,' he said.

US Secy of State, Antony Blinken thanks Qatar for supporting US evacuations

US Secy of State, Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin reached Qatar and conducted talks with top officials of Qatar. Blinken expressed gratitude for Qatar's support in US' evacuations.

No country has done more than Qatar: US Secy of State, Antony Blinken

As the Taliban consolidated its hold over Afghanistan, hundreds of people protested in Kabul on Tuesday chanted&nbsp;anti-Pakistan slogans.

Reports said the Taliban fired shots to disperse the protests in the capital.&nbsp;The rally was mainly led by women outside the Pakistan embassy with at least 70 people taking part in the demonstrations.&nbsp;

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Anti Pakistan protests in Kabul, happening right now <a href="https://t.co/t1SISw9RWY">pic.twitter.com/t1SISw9RWY</a>
— Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) <a href="https://twitter.com/saadmohseni/status/1435130804519251970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The development comes as Pakistan's intelligence ISI chief&nbsp;Lt Gen Faiz Hameed met with Mullah Baradar during his visit to Kabul on Monday.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid had confirmed that the ISI chief had met Baradar.&nbsp;Taliban had earlier assured Pakistan that Afghanistan's territory&nbsp;won't be used for terrorist activities&nbsp;amid the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan(TTP) threat in the border areas.

Last week at least three Pakistan paramilitary soldiers were killed and 20 wounded in a suicide attack in Quetta as the&nbsp; 
(TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack.

Social Media courtesy: Twitter-@saadmohseni

(With inputs from Agencies)

&nbsp;

As the Taliban consolidated its hold over Afghanistan, hundreds of people protested in Kabul on Tuesday chanted anti-Pakistan slogans. Reports said the Taliban fired shots to disperse the protests in the capital.

As the Taliban consolidated its hold over Afghanistan, hundreds of people protested in Kabul on Tuesday chanted anti-Pakistan slogans. Reports said the Taliban fired shots to disperse the protests in the capital. The rally was mainly led by women outside the Pakistan embassy with at least 70 people taking part in the demonstrations. Anti Pakistan protests in Kabul, happening right now pic.twitter.com/t1SISw9RWY — Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) September 7, 2021 × The development comes as Pakistan's intelligence ISI chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed met with Mullah Baradar during his visit to Kabul on Monday. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid had confirmed that the ISI chief had met Baradar. Taliban had earlier assured Pakistan that Afghanistan's territory won't be used for terrorist activities amid the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan(TTP) threat in the border areas. Last week at least three Pakistan paramilitary soldiers were killed and 20 wounded in a suicide attack in Quetta as the (TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack. Social Media courtesy: Twitter-@saadmohseni (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban open fire to disperse demonstrators who chant anti-Pakistan slogans in Kabul

US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, embarks on a two-day Qatar visit, as he looks to form a united front with allies following the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Blinken will also voice America's "deep gratitude" to Doha.

Antony Blinken to visit Qatar to hold ministerial meeting on Afghan crisis

Qatar has flown humanitarian aid into Kabul and said it will operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan over the next few days, providing much-needed supplies following a hiatus in much Western aid due to Taliban`s takeover last month.

Qatar has emerged as a key interlocutor between western nations and the Taliban, after developing close ties with the militant group through hosting its political office since 2013.

A Qatari aid flight carrying medical supplies and food products arrived in Kabul on Saturday and Qatar Ambassador to Afghanistan Saeed bin Mubarak Al Khayareen was at the airport for its arrival, the Gulf State`s foreign ministry said.

Qatar has helped reopen the airport, which closed for several days after the United States-led airlift of its citizens, Afghans and other nationals ended last month.

Half of Afghanistan`s 40 million people, including 10 million children, required humanitarian assistance as of the start of this year, the International Organization for Migration said late last month, adding that needs were expected to rise.

Qatar has flown humanitarian aid into Kabul and said it will operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan over the next few days, providing much-needed supplies following a hiatus in much Western aid due to Taliban`s takeover last month.

Qatar has flown humanitarian aid into Kabul and said it will operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan over the next few days, providing much-needed supplies following a hiatus in much Western aid due to Taliban`s takeover last month. Qatar has emerged as a key interlocutor between western nations and the Taliban, after developing close ties with the militant group through hosting its political office since 2013. A Qatari aid flight carrying medical supplies and food products arrived in Kabul on Saturday and Qatar Ambassador to Afghanistan Saeed bin Mubarak Al Khayareen was at the airport for its arrival, the Gulf State`s foreign ministry said. Qatar has helped reopen the airport, which closed for several days after the United States-led airlift of its citizens, Afghans and other nationals ended last month. Half of Afghanistan`s 40 million people, including 10 million children, required humanitarian assistance as of the start of this year, the International Organization for Migration said late last month, adding that needs were expected to rise.

Qatar to operate daily aid flights to Afghanistan

Qatar has expressed its ambitions to open a humanitarian doorway to Afghanistan. A UAE plane reached Kabul with food and medical aid reached Kabul airport on Friday.

UAE plane reaches Kabul with food and medical aid

The Taliban are in talks with Qatar and Turkey about the management of Kabul airport as it lacks air traffic control services.&nbsp;

This comes in after the United States military has completely withdrawn from Afghanistan.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a statement saying, "due to both the lack of air traffic services and a functional civil aviation authority in Afghanistan, as well as ongoing security concerns, US&nbsp;civil operators, pilots, and US-registered civil aircraft are prohibited from operating at any altitude over much of Afghanistan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-decades-later-americans-fear-entering-skyscraper-as-memories-of-911-attack-still-haunt-us-410443">Also read |&nbsp;Two decades later, Americans fear entering skyscraper as memories of 9/11 attack still haunt US</a>

The talks are aimed at securing the airport as soon as possible so that people who want to leave Afghanistan can do so using commercial flights, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said.

“The Security Council resolution about securing the airport must be implemented. There are talks under way with the Qataris and Turks about management of the airport. We must demand that access to the airport is safe,” Le Drian said on France 2 television.

The FAA has said that the US civil operators “may continue to use one high-altitude jet route near the far eastern border for overflights. Any US civil aircraft operator that wants to fly into/out of or over Afghanistan must receive prior authorisation from the FAA.”

The Taliban are in talks with Qatar and Turkey about the management of Kabul airport as it lacks air traffic control services. This comes in after the United States military has completely withdrawn from Afghanistan.

The Taliban are in talks with Qatar and Turkey about the management of Kabul airport as it lacks air traffic control services. This comes in after the United States military has completely withdrawn from Afghanistan. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a statement saying, "due to both the lack of air traffic services and a functional civil aviation authority in Afghanistan, as well as ongoing security concerns, US civil operators, pilots, and US-registered civil aircraft are prohibited from operating at any altitude over much of Afghanistan." Also read | Two decades later, Americans fear entering skyscraper as memories of 9/11 attack still haunt US The talks are aimed at securing the airport as soon as possible so that people who want to leave Afghanistan can do so using commercial flights, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said. “The Security Council resolution about securing the airport must be implemented. There are talks under way with the Qataris and Turks about management of the airport. We must demand that access to the airport is safe,” Le Drian said on France 2 television. The FAA has said that the US civil operators “may continue to use one high-altitude jet route near the far eastern border for overflights. Any US civil aircraft operator that wants to fly into/out of or over Afghanistan must receive prior authorisation from the FAA.”

Taliban in talks with Qatar, Turkey to manage Kabul airport after US withdraws

An aircraft from Qatar carrying a technical team has landed in Kabul. The team will be working on the resumption of airport operations. The aim is to resume flights for humanitarian aid and freedom of movement.

Aircraft from Qatar carrying technical team lands in Kabul

In the absence of political leadership in Afghanistan, diplomacy is at stake. Qatar's foreign minister has warned that isolating the Taliban 'could further destabilise Afghanistan'. The minister has also urged nations to engage with the Taliban.

Qatar urges Taliban to combat 'terrorism' after US pullout

Through various destinations and flights, numerous Indians have returned to home country&nbsp;on Sunday morning after being evacuated from Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Sunday, India evacuated around 168 people including 107 Indians from Kabul in a IAF aircraft.&nbsp;In a tweet earlier, Arindam Bagchi,&nbsp;spokesperson, India's Ministry of External Affairs, said,&nbsp;“Evacuation continues!&nbsp;IAF special repatriation flight with 168 passengers onboard, including 107 Indian nationals, is on its way to Delhi from Kabul.”&nbsp;India also&nbsp;brought back an infant 'Baby Divi' in the flight from Kabul.

As per&nbsp;people familiar with the development,&nbsp;an Air India flight carrying 87 Indians&nbsp;arrived in New Delhi on Sunday morning. It had&nbsp;departed from Tajikistan.&nbsp;"Bringing Indians home from Afghanistan! AI 1956 carrying 87 Indians departs from Tajikistan for New Delhi. Two Nepalese nationals also evacuated. Assisted and supported by our Embassy in Dushanbe. More evacuation flights to follow,"&nbsp;Bagchi had shared. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the first batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha&nbsp;in last&nbsp;few days,&nbsp;have&nbsp;also returned to India.&nbsp;The Indian Embassy in Qatar&nbsp;on Sunday had&nbsp;tweeted,&nbsp;"1st batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha over past days, being repatriated tonight to India. Embassy officials provided consular and logistics assistance to ensure their safe return. We thank Qatar authorities and all concerned for making this possible."

Indians evacuated to Doha from Kabul seem to be employees of a number of foreign companies, who were operating in Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian Air Force&nbsp;and Air India&nbsp;have&nbsp;been strenuously evacuating Indian nationals along with others from the war-ravaged&nbsp;Afghanistan since Taliban took over the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The regime change has forced several Afghans and nationals of other countries to flee the country, fearing Taliban’s oppressive rule. It has&nbsp;triggered a significant&nbsp;humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Through various destinations and flights, numerous Indians have returned to home country on Sunday morning after being evacuated from Afghanistan. On Sunday, India evacuated around 168 people including 107 Indians from Kabul in a IAF aircraft.

Through various destinations and flights, numerous Indians have returned to home country on Sunday morning after being evacuated from Afghanistan. On Sunday, India evacuated around 168 people including 107 Indians from Kabul in a IAF aircraft. In a tweet earlier, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson, India's Ministry of External Affairs, said, “Evacuation continues! IAF special repatriation flight with 168 passengers onboard, including 107 Indian nationals, is on its way to Delhi from Kabul.” India also brought back an infant 'Baby Divi' in the flight from Kabul. As per people familiar with the development, an Air India flight carrying 87 Indians arrived in New Delhi on Sunday morning. It had departed from Tajikistan. "Bringing Indians home from Afghanistan! AI 1956 carrying 87 Indians departs from Tajikistan for New Delhi. Two Nepalese nationals also evacuated. Assisted and supported by our Embassy in Dushanbe. More evacuation flights to follow," Bagchi had shared. Meanwhile, the first batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha in last few days, have also returned to India. The Indian Embassy in Qatar on Sunday had tweeted, "1st batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha over past days, being repatriated tonight to India. Embassy officials provided consular and logistics assistance to ensure their safe return. We thank Qatar authorities and all concerned for making this possible." Indians evacuated to Doha from Kabul seem to be employees of a number of foreign companies, who were operating in Afghanistan. Indian Air Force and Air India have been strenuously evacuating Indian nationals along with others from the war-ravaged Afghanistan since Taliban took over the country. The regime change has forced several Afghans and nationals of other countries to flee the country, fearing Taliban’s oppressive rule. It has triggered a significant humanitarian crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations

Recent reports reveal that President Joe Biden's administration has held secret talks with more countries than previously known in a desperate attempt to secure deals for temporarily housing at-risk Afghans working for the US government.&nbsp;

Seeing the Taliban's advances as a threat to those still awaiting Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), Washington is looking for third countries to host them until their paperwork is completed and they can come to the United States, as per a Reuter's report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-covid-19-vaccine-in-eastern-afghanistans-paktia-province-report-405235" hreflang="en">Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report</a>

An official in the know says that an agreement to house about 8,000 Afghans in Qatar, a country that has a large US military base, has been close for weeks, but no official announcement has been made.

Afghanistan nationals who served as interpreters and/or performed other jobs,&nbsp;for the US government, can apply to the SIV program.

So far, approximately 1,200 Afghans have been evacuated to the United States under "Operation Allies Refuge" with an additional 3,500 expected in the coming weeks. Some Afghans will be taken to a US military base in Virginia for paperwork and some will go directly to US hosts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-nato-eu-un-confirm-they-will-not-recognise-govt-formed-through-military-405223" hreflang="en">Afghanistan: NATO, EU, UN confirm they will not recognise govt formed through military</a>

Taking into account the Taliban's rapid advance in Afghanistan, the United States has decided to send around 1,000 personnel to Qatar to expedite the processing of SIVs.

Countries hesitant

As per two US officials, who wanted to stay anonymous, concerns surround the quality of security vetting and health screening in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> process before the Afghans could fly, resulting in some countries hesitating to accept the Afghans.

The Biden administration explored having Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan accept thousands of applicants, but that effort has so far proved ineffective.

"There's concerns that you might expect: 'Who are these people? How do you know these people? Can you assure that these people will get visas to the United States? Who's going to care for and feed these people. What happens if these people wander off this facility you've got them in?" a senior State Department official said.

After encountering reluctance from some countries, the US has turned to others who might be willing to help, in exchange for assistance.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-afghan-peace-talks-hit-a-deadlock-has-the-us-failed-208235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For taking in several thousand Afghans, the United States has offered concessions to Kosovo in economic and political terms, but officials are concerned about the country's capacity to house the new arrivals.

The 1,200 Afghans evacuated represent less than 1 per cent of the 21,000 people on the SIV pipeline, and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Biden</a> administration has been struggling to find temporary housing for the evacuees.

When family members are counted, advocates estimate that 50,000 and 80,000 people will be evacuated under the SIV program.

(With inputs from agencies)

Recent reports reveal that President Joe Biden's administration has held secret talks with more countries than previously known in a desperate attempt to secure deals for temporarily housing at-risk Afghans working for the US government.

Recent reports reveal that President Joe Biden's administration has held secret talks with more countries than previously known in a desperate attempt to secure deals for temporarily housing at-risk Afghans working for the US government. Seeing the Taliban's advances as a threat to those still awaiting Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), Washington is looking for third countries to host them until their paperwork is completed and they can come to the United States, as per a Reuter's report. Also read | Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report An official in the know says that an agreement to house about 8,000 Afghans in Qatar, a country that has a large US military base, has been close for weeks, but no official announcement has been made. Afghanistan nationals who served as interpreters and/or performed other jobs, for the US government, can apply to the SIV program. So far, approximately 1,200 Afghans have been evacuated to the United States under "Operation Allies Refuge" with an additional 3,500 expected in the coming weeks. Some Afghans will be taken to a US military base in Virginia for paperwork and some will go directly to US hosts. Also read | Afghanistan: NATO, EU, UN confirm they will not recognise govt formed through military Taking into account the Taliban's rapid advance in Afghanistan, the United States has decided to send around 1,000 personnel to Qatar to expedite the processing of SIVs. Countries hesitant As per two US officials, who wanted to stay anonymous, concerns surround the quality of security vetting and health screening in the COVID-19 process before the Afghans could fly, resulting in some countries hesitating to accept the Afghans. The Biden administration explored having Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan accept thousands of applicants, but that effort has so far proved ineffective. "There's concerns that you might expect: 'Who are these people? How do you know these people? Can you assure that these people will get visas to the United States? Who's going to care for and feed these people. What happens if these people wander off this facility you've got them in?" a senior State Department official said. After encountering reluctance from some countries, the US has turned to others who might be willing to help, in exchange for assistance. For taking in several thousand Afghans, the United States has offered concessions to Kosovo in economic and political terms, but officials are concerned about the country's capacity to house the new arrivals. The 1,200 Afghans evacuated represent less than 1 per cent of the 21,000 people on the SIV pipeline, and the Biden administration has been struggling to find temporary housing for the evacuees. When family members are counted, advocates estimate that 50,000 and 80,000 people will be evacuated under the SIV program. (With inputs from agencies)

Seeking asylum for SIV applicants: A desperate bid by the Biden administration

Skytrax, the world's largest airline consultancy group, has published its 2021 World Airport Awards, presenting rankings for the most popular international airports around the world.&nbsp;Hamad International Airport in Doha has been honoured as the world's best airport.&nbsp;

In addition to this, it has also won the Best Airport in the Middle East award. The airport was honoured with three more awards, the World's Best Airport in the category of 25 to 35 million passengers,&nbsp;Doha’s Hamad International Airport has been named the world’s best airport, as well as the Best Airport Staff in the Middle East in the 2021 World Airport Awards.

The rankings are based on traveller experience between August 2020 and July 2021, which formed the basis of this year's awards.

From check-in to arrivals to transfers, the survey evaluated different parameters such as shopping, security and immigration. Other parameters like ease of baggage claim, departure at the gate, were also evaluated in this survey that examines traveller experiences across a range of airport services and products.

Since the global pandemic began nearly 18 months ago, many industries have faced the challenge of survival. Instead of focusing on profits, businesses and industries had to focus on merely staying afloat.&nbsp;It was essential for them to invest in the safety of both their customers and employees.

The world air transport industry has also experienced the most challenging and financially difficult period it has ever seen.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> impacted some airports and regions more than the others, with many located in areas with no or few international flights for more than a year.

Taking into account the state of travel during the pandemic i.e, in&nbsp;2020-21, this year's survey also included a COVID-19 section.

The second and third position was bagged by&nbsp;Tokyo Haneda Airport and&nbsp;Singapore Changi Airport.

Skytrax, the world's largest airline consultancy group, has published its 2021 World Airport Awards, presenting rankings for the most popular international airports around the world.

Skytrax, the world's largest airline consultancy group, has published its 2021 World Airport Awards, presenting rankings for the most popular international airports around the world. Hamad International Airport in Doha has been honoured as the world's best airport. In addition to this, it has also won the Best Airport in the Middle East award. The airport was honoured with three more awards, the World's Best Airport in the category of 25 to 35 million passengers, Doha’s Hamad International Airport has been named the world’s best airport, as well as the Best Airport Staff in the Middle East in the 2021 World Airport Awards. The rankings are based on traveller experience between August 2020 and July 2021, which formed the basis of this year's awards. From check-in to arrivals to transfers, the survey evaluated different parameters such as shopping, security and immigration. Other parameters like ease of baggage claim, departure at the gate, were also evaluated in this survey that examines traveller experiences across a range of airport services and products. Since the global pandemic began nearly 18 months ago, many industries have faced the challenge of survival. Instead of focusing on profits, businesses and industries had to focus on merely staying afloat. It was essential for them to invest in the safety of both their customers and employees. The world air transport industry has also experienced the most challenging and financially difficult period it has ever seen. COVID-19 impacted some airports and regions more than the others, with many located in areas with no or few international flights for more than a year. Taking into account the state of travel during the pandemic i.e, in 2020-21, this year's survey also included a COVID-19 section. The second and third position was bagged by Tokyo Haneda Airport and Singapore Changi Airport.

Hamad International Airport honoured as world's best airport

Qatar's Special Envoy for Counter-terrorism and Mediation of Conflict Resolution Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani,&nbsp;who was on a&nbsp;two-day India visit,&nbsp;has briefed the Indian side about the Afghan peace process. On Saturday,&nbsp;he held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and foreign secretary Harsh&nbsp;Shringla&nbsp;during which,&nbsp;he agreed that the process should be inclusive to ensure its success.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the meetings, Joint Secretary (PAI), JP Singh was also present. In a tweet after the meet, EAM said,&nbsp;"Rapid deterioration of the security situation is a serious matter" and "peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected."&nbsp;

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Rapid deterioration of the security situation is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1423910552183590914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The special envoy during the various meetings was concerned about external players as much as internal. The visit comes amid a deteriorating situation in Afghanistan as the Taliban makes territorial gains.&nbsp;

Last week,&nbsp;at a United Nations Security Council session on Afghanistan under India Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M&nbsp;Isaczai&nbsp;exposed Pakistani support to the Taliban's ongoing offensive. He said,&nbsp;"Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan."&nbsp;

Qatar has played an important role when it comes to the US-Taliban pact and hosting the intra-Afghan talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban. Remember, Al-Qahtani&nbsp;is the same Qatari official,&nbsp;who earlier this year,&nbsp;confirmed that some kind of talks is happening between India and the Taliban.&nbsp;

Qatar's Special Envoy for Counter-terrorism and Mediation of Conflict Resolution Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani, who was on a two-day India visit, has briefed the Indian side about the Afghan peace process.

Qatar's Special Envoy for Counter-terrorism and Mediation of Conflict Resolution Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani, who was on a two-day India visit, has briefed the Indian side about the Afghan peace process. On Saturday, he held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and foreign secretary Harsh Shringla during which, he agreed that the process should be inclusive to ensure its success. During the meetings, Joint Secretary (PAI), JP Singh was also present. In a tweet after the meet, EAM said, "Rapid deterioration of the security situation is a serious matter" and "peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected." Rapid deterioration of the security situation is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 7, 2021 × The special envoy during the various meetings was concerned about external players as much as internal. The visit comes amid a deteriorating situation in Afghanistan as the Taliban makes territorial gains. Last week, at a United Nations Security Council session on Afghanistan under India Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai exposed Pakistani support to the Taliban's ongoing offensive. He said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan." Qatar has played an important role when it comes to the US-Taliban pact and hosting the intra-Afghan talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban. Remember, Al-Qahtani is the same Qatari official, who earlier this year, confirmed that some kind of talks is happening between India and the Taliban.

In India, Qatar special envoy agrees Afghan peace process should be inclusive for its success

In a tweet, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that he is meeting Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani in New Delhi.&nbsp;

During the meeting,&nbsp;the Minister shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan with the envoy. He also raised concerns of the region that he came to know during recent interactions.&nbsp;

“Rapid deterioration of the security situation in Afghanistan is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected,” said the minister on the micro blogging site. &nbsp;

Jaishankar also said, “Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani.” &nbsp;

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Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani. 
 
Shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan. Also the concerns of the region that I heard during recent interactions. <a href="https://t.co/D6yA7EB4JL">pic.twitter.com/D6yA7EB4JL</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1423910550115819524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, the Afghan foreign minister, had spoken to his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar about holding an emergency session of the UN Security Council to address the Taliban's brutality and crimes across Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India is the President of the United Nations Security Council for August and decides upon the work of the top United Nations body.&nbsp;

An Afghan government readout said Afghan FM called Dr S Jaishankar to "discuss convening an emergency UN Security Council Session on Afghanistan" and that the "UN &amp; international community must play a greater role in stopping the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan due to Taliban violence &amp; atrocities. Appreciate the lead role of India as the current UNSC President."&nbsp;

In a tweet, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that he is meeting Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani in New Delhi. During the meeting, the Minister shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan with the envoy.

In a tweet, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that he is meeting Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani in New Delhi. During the meeting, the Minister shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan with the envoy. He also raised concerns of the region that he came to know during recent interactions. “Rapid deterioration of the security situation in Afghanistan is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected,” said the minister on the micro blogging site. Jaishankar also said, “Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani.” Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani. Shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan. Also the concerns of the region that I heard during recent interactions. pic.twitter.com/D6yA7EB4JL — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 7, 2021 × Earlier, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, the Afghan foreign minister, had spoken to his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar about holding an emergency session of the UN Security Council to address the Taliban's brutality and crimes across Afghanistan. India is the President of the United Nations Security Council for August and decides upon the work of the top United Nations body. An Afghan government readout said Afghan FM called Dr S Jaishankar to "discuss convening an emergency UN Security Council Session on Afghanistan" and that the "UN & international community must play a greater role in stopping the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan due to Taliban violence & atrocities. Appreciate the lead role of India as the current UNSC President."

Jaishankar meets Qatar special envoy, discusses Afghan security situation 

A Qatari envoy has confirmed 'quiet talks' between India and the Taliban in Doha. What are India's options while dealing with the Taliban? Have the insurgents changed after 20 years in the wilderness? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Qatari envoy confirms India-Taliban talks

Indian diplomats paid a 'quiet visit' to Doha on Monday, according to Qatar's Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, to have talks with the Afghan Taliban's political leadership based there.&nbsp;

This visit appears to be the first official confirmation of recent rumours that New Delhi has directly engaged the Taliban.&nbsp;

Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani, who is the Special Envoy of Qatar’s foreign minister for counter-terrorism and conflict resolution, said at a virtual seminar: "India, as we know, has invested a lot economically and wants Afghanistan to be more peaceful and stable.

"I believe there has been a quiet visit by Indian officials to speak to the Taliban. Why because not everybody believes that the Taliban will dominate and take over but because the Taliban is a key component of the future of Afghanistan.”

The Qatari diplomat advised that such discussions with Afghan stakeholders should aim to persuade the parties to resolve their disagreements through peaceful methods.&nbsp;

Since 2013, the Qatari government has hosted the Taliban's main headquarters in Doha, and it is the organiser of the Intra Afghan Dialogue, or Afghan-Taliban talks, which began in September of last year.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the Doha ceremony, as did an Indian delegation led by Joint Secretary for Iran-Pakistan-Afghanistan JP Singh from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Indian diplomats paid a 'quiet visit' to Doha on Monday, according to Qatar's Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, to have talks with the Afghan Taliban's political leadership based there.

Indian diplomats paid a 'quiet visit' to Doha on Monday, according to Qatar's Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, to have talks with the Afghan Taliban's political leadership based there. This visit appears to be the first official confirmation of recent rumours that New Delhi has directly engaged the Taliban. Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani, who is the Special Envoy of Qatar’s foreign minister for counter-terrorism and conflict resolution, said at a virtual seminar: "India, as we know, has invested a lot economically and wants Afghanistan to be more peaceful and stable. "I believe there has been a quiet visit by Indian officials to speak to the Taliban. Why because not everybody believes that the Taliban will dominate and take over but because the Taliban is a key component of the future of Afghanistan.” The Qatari diplomat advised that such discussions with Afghan stakeholders should aim to persuade the parties to resolve their disagreements through peaceful methods. Since 2013, the Qatari government has hosted the Taliban's main headquarters in Doha, and it is the organiser of the Intra Afghan Dialogue, or Afghan-Taliban talks, which began in September of last year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the Doha ceremony, as did an Indian delegation led by Joint Secretary for Iran-Pakistan-Afghanistan JP Singh from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Indian delegation engaged in talks with Taliban in Doha: Qatar special envoy

In less than one week, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has visited Qatar twice. Why? The route for an Afghanistan Peace Deal goes through Doha, and India could be trying to get a word in. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas | Two visits in less than a week: What is Jaishankar doing in Qatar?

Qatar's public prosecution has charged a Kenyan man, who has written about migrant rights in the Gulf Arab state with receiving payment to spread disinformation, the government's communication office (GCO) said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Malcolm Bidali, who had been writing under a pseudonym, was arrested on May 5 for violating Qatar's security laws, according to a Qatari official. Rights groups have voiced concern that his detention may be in reprisal for human rights work.&nbsp;

"Mr Bidali has been formally charged with offences related to payments received by a foreign agent for the creation and distribution of disinformation within the State of Qatar," the GCO said in a statement, without elaborating.&nbsp;

It said his case was transferred to the Public Prosecution after a thorough investigation and that Bidali was 'receiving legal advice and representation ahead of the court date, which has not yet been set'.&nbsp;

Rights groups including Amnesty International said in a statement on Friday that Bidali, a security guard and blogger, told his mother in a May 20 phone call that he was being held in solitary confinement and had no access to a lawyer.&nbsp;

The GCO did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

Bidali had a week before his arrest given a presentation to a large group of civil society organisations and trade unions about his experience working in Qatar, according to an earlier statement by Amnesty, Migrant-Rights.org, Human Rights Watch, FairSquare and the Business &amp; Human Rights Resource Centre.&nbsp;

Qatar's human rights record has been in the spotlight as it prepares to host the 2022 soccer World Cup, especially over migrants' living and working conditions.&nbsp;

Doha has introduced labour reforms that aimed to address some concerns.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Qatar's public prosecution has charged a Kenyan man, who has written about migrant rights in the Gulf Arab state with receiving payment to spread disinformation, the government's communication office (GCO) said on Saturday.

Qatar's public prosecution has charged a Kenyan man, who has written about migrant rights in the Gulf Arab state with receiving payment to spread disinformation, the government's communication office (GCO) said on Saturday. Malcolm Bidali, who had been writing under a pseudonym, was arrested on May 5 for violating Qatar's security laws, according to a Qatari official. Rights groups have voiced concern that his detention may be in reprisal for human rights work. "Mr Bidali has been formally charged with offences related to payments received by a foreign agent for the creation and distribution of disinformation within the State of Qatar," the GCO said in a statement, without elaborating. It said his case was transferred to the Public Prosecution after a thorough investigation and that Bidali was 'receiving legal advice and representation ahead of the court date, which has not yet been set'. Rights groups including Amnesty International said in a statement on Friday that Bidali, a security guard and blogger, told his mother in a May 20 phone call that he was being held in solitary confinement and had no access to a lawyer. The GCO did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Bidali had a week before his arrest given a presentation to a large group of civil society organisations and trade unions about his experience working in Qatar, according to an earlier statement by Amnesty, Migrant-Rights.org, Human Rights Watch, FairSquare and the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre. Qatar's human rights record has been in the spotlight as it prepares to host the 2022 soccer World Cup, especially over migrants' living and working conditions. Doha has introduced labour reforms that aimed to address some concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar charges migrant activist with taking payment to spread disinformation 

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