Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged Tuesday to build 3,500 new settler homes in a super-sensitive area of the occupied West Bank, just a week before a tight general election.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged Tuesday to build 3,500 new settler homes in a super-sensitive area of the occupied West Bank, just a week before a tight general election. "I gave immediate instructions for a permit to deposit (plans) for the construction of 3,500 units in E1," Netanyahu said. Also Read: Netanyahu withdraws bid for immunity from corruption prosecution The international community has warned repeatedly that Jewish settlement construction in the E1 corridor would cut the West Bank in two and compromise the contiguity of a future Palestinian state. "We are building Jerusalem and Jerusalem's outskirts," Netanyahu said at a conference in remarks relayed by a spokesman. In 2013, Netanyahu had vetoed construction in the E1 corridor in the face of UN, EU and US pressure. Watch: Today Tonight: Donald Trump welcomes Benjamin Netanyahu | WION News | World News The move to advance new homes, which would constitute a new neighbourhood of Maale Adumim, a nearby settlement town, was praised by the Yesha Council, a settler lobby group, which noted that plans for homes there have existed since 2004. "Advancing the issue will enable broad and strategic construction between Maale Adumim and Jerusalem," Yesha Council head David Elhayani said in a statement. On Thursday, Netanyahu announced plans for thousands of new homes for Israelis in annexed east Jerusalem, with critics calling the move a last-minute gift to nationalist supporters ahead of a March 2 general election.

Netanyahu pledges new settler homes in West Bank corridor

Pakistan has been facing humiliation at the hands of China, be it then the issue of Uighur Muslims persecution in Xinjiang or now the evacuation of its own citizens form coronavirus-hit Hubei province, a US-based security expert has said.

Michael Rubin, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, said in its article published by The National Interest magazine that despite being an Islamic state of the modern era, Pakistan fails to raise the issue of Muslims in Xinjiang.

"The Pakistani press regularly covers the plight of Myanmar's persecuted Rohingya Muslims. Pakistani charities work in Chechnya. There is no shortage of the terrorist groups Pakistan sponsors who target India and are motivated more by religion than nationalism," the expert said.

"And, yet, when it comes to China's incarceration of more than a million Uighur Muslims--solely because they are Muslim--Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been silent on one hand and on the other he has both defended China's repression of its Muslims and persecuted for China the Uighurs in Pakistan," he added.

The expert said that while the sister city twinning is a common diplomatic practice in order to advance tourism and ties between the world's major cities, China and Pakistan have taken this to a new level with provincial twining.

"Recently, Pakistan's mission in Beijing gave a draft memorandum of understanding to the Chinese Foreign Ministry in order to establish sister province relations between Xinjiang and Gilgit-Baltistan. Not only, therefore, is Khan cowed by Chinese pressure to the point that he must turn a blind eye to the greatest repression of Muslims in the 21st century but he now seeks to honour the Chinese province that is at the epicentre of Chinese anti-Muslim repression", said Rubin.

It further added, "Even if Khan is motivated by the implied threat to treat the people of the disputed Gilgit-Baltistan region like China treats the Xinjiang, that does not paper over the implied endorsement of Beijing's Islamophobic leadership."

The coronavirus abandonment of Pakistani students in Wuhan further humiliates Pakistan. Almost every other country -- including India -- has evacuated its citizens from the coronavirus epicentre. While Imran Khan spends a great deal on himself, his foreign travel, and the military, he has left Pakistan's public health infrastructure a shamble.

"Khan knows that corruption and disorganisation mean that medical quarantine will not work in Pakistan, which is why he seeks to keep those potentially infected abroad. China, meanwhile, cares little for the Pakistanis who remain within its territory," said Rubin.

He further said, "To be Pakistani in the age of Imran Khan means to suffer in silence at the back of the line."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has been facing humiliation at the hands of China, be it then the issue of Uighur Muslims persecution in Xinjiang or now the evacuation of its own citizens form coronavirus-hit Hubei province, a US-based security expert has said.

Pakistan has been facing humiliation at the hands of China, be it then the issue of Uighur Muslims persecution in Xinjiang or now the evacuation of its own citizens form coronavirus-hit Hubei province, a US-based security expert has said. Michael Rubin, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, said in its article published by The National Interest magazine that despite being an Islamic state of the modern era, Pakistan fails to raise the issue of Muslims in Xinjiang. "The Pakistani press regularly covers the plight of Myanmar's persecuted Rohingya Muslims. Pakistani charities work in Chechnya. There is no shortage of the terrorist groups Pakistan sponsors who target India and are motivated more by religion than nationalism," the expert said. "And, yet, when it comes to China's incarceration of more than a million Uighur Muslims--solely because they are Muslim--Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been silent on one hand and on the other he has both defended China's repression of its Muslims and persecuted for China the Uighurs in Pakistan," he added. The expert said that while the sister city twinning is a common diplomatic practice in order to advance tourism and ties between the world's major cities, China and Pakistan have taken this to a new level with provincial twining. "Recently, Pakistan's mission in Beijing gave a draft memorandum of understanding to the Chinese Foreign Ministry in order to establish sister province relations between Xinjiang and Gilgit-Baltistan. Not only, therefore, is Khan cowed by Chinese pressure to the point that he must turn a blind eye to the greatest repression of Muslims in the 21st century but he now seeks to honour the Chinese province that is at the epicentre of Chinese anti-Muslim repression", said Rubin. It further added, "Even if Khan is motivated by the implied threat to treat the people of the disputed Gilgit-Baltistan region like China treats the Xinjiang, that does not paper over the implied endorsement of Beijing's Islamophobic leadership." The coronavirus abandonment of Pakistani students in Wuhan further humiliates Pakistan. Almost every other country -- including India -- has evacuated its citizens from the coronavirus epicentre. While Imran Khan spends a great deal on himself, his foreign travel, and the military, he has left Pakistan's public health infrastructure a shamble. "Khan knows that corruption and disorganisation mean that medical quarantine will not work in Pakistan, which is why he seeks to keep those potentially infected abroad. China, meanwhile, cares little for the Pakistanis who remain within its territory," said Rubin. He further said, "To be Pakistani in the age of Imran Khan means to suffer in silence at the back of the line."

Pakistan facing humiliation at hands of China: US expert

Hours after the announcement of the final results of the presidential election by the Independent Election Commission (IEC) on Tuesday, Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive officer (CEO), announced the formation of an "inclusive government" by his Stability and Convergence campaign team, declaring his "victory" in the polls.

Hours after the announcement of the final results of the presidential election by the Independent Election Commission (IEC) on Tuesday, Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive officer (CEO), announced the formation of an "inclusive government" by his Stability and Convergence campaign team, declaring his "victory" in the polls. The final results of the election, according to the IEC, showed that incumbent President Ashraf Ghani had received the highest count of votes, equivalent to 50.6 per cent of the total votes polled, while Abdullah had secured 39.52 per cent of total votes, TOLOnews reported. With the commission announcing Ghani as the winner of the elections during a press conference, Abdullah was quoted as saying that the decisions on disputed votes were "illegal," adding that today's results were a coup against democracy and he does not accept them. "It was national treason," Abdullah said. Also Read: Eight civilians killed in Afghanistan air strike: Officials He said, "The Stability and Convergence team is the 'winner of the election' based on 'clean votes' and we announce our 'victory,'" adding, "We announce the formation of an inclusive government." There was a slight change in Tuesday's announcement from IEC's announcement of the preliminary elections on December 22 last year. Based on the IEC's decision, a partial audit and partial recount were conducted of the 300,000 disputed votes, and 262 votes were added to Ghani's total, while 742 votes were added to Abdullah's, and 453 votes were invalidated, according to the commission. Based on the preliminary results that were announced late last December, incumbent President Ashraf Ghani was narrowly declared the winner while Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah got 39 per cent of a total of over 1.8 million votes. Watch: Pakistan Taliban leader killed in Afghanistan Originally scheduled to be announced on October 19, the results of the presidential elections, which were held in September last year, were repeatedly delayed, with IEC officials citing technical issues, allegations of fraud and protests from candidates. Both Abdullah and Ghani shared power over the past five years in a so-called unity government formed by the United States in the wake of allegations of widespread fraud and corruption in the 2014 polls. In September's election, which was held amid Taliban threats to disrupt the process, nearly one million of the initial 2.7 million votes were purged owing to irregularities. Ultimately, only 1.8 million votes were counted - a tiny number, given Afghanistan's estimated population of 35 million and its total of 9.6 million registered voters. The final results came as the US and the Taliban, which has been fighting the US-led NATO forces in Afghanistan since the Taliban was toppled from power in 2001, appear to be close to embarking on a seven-day "reduction in violence" as a prelude to a peace deal to end the US's longest war. The deal also proposes talks between the government in Kabul and the Taliban. The armed group has so far refused to speak to the Western-backed government of Ghani, calling it a "puppet regime".

Afghan CEO rejects presidential polls' results, announces formation of 'inclusive government'

Members of the Tharus minority group on Tuesday staged a protest in Nepal's capital city of Kathmandu, demanding the release of those imprisoned during the Madhesh Movement that roiled the Himalayan nation in 2015.

Members of the Tharus minority group on Tuesday staged a protest in Nepal's capital city of Kathmandu, demanding the release of those imprisoned during the Madhesh Movement that roiled the Himalayan nation in 2015. Demonstrators gathered in the capital with the demand that the Lal Commission Report - which was formed to investigate atrocities during movement in Southern Plains in the year 2015 - be made public. The community also called for the release of Rashtriya Janata Party-Nepal lawmaker Resham Chaudhary, who was held guilty for the Tikapur carnage. "By not making the Lal Commission Report public we are denied the right to information. How did the incident of Tikapur happen? Who are the actual culprits? Are the Tharus only to be blamed? The answers to all these are there in the Lal Commission Report." Watch: Ethnic group in Nepal marks New Year with merriment The front also held a hunger strike in Dhangadhi city in Kailali District and called on for a two-day total shutdown from March 3 on self-proclaimed Tharuhat province to pressurise the Nepal government to address its demands. Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal, an amalgamation of the-then Madhesi Alliance who fought for amendment of constitution back in 2015 has long been demanding for the release of a report which was submitted to the Government of Nepal in December 2017. The report was prepared by a commission formed under the leadership of Supreme Court former judge Girish Chandra Lal in the year 2016 to investigate human rights violations in Tarai/Madhes movements. The high-level probe commission on Terai-Madhesh unrest was led by Former Justice of the Apex court of Nepal formed in the year 2016. The restive Southern Plains of Nepal witnessed bloodshed and widespread protest after the promulgation of the constitution in the year 2015.

Nepal: Tharu community stages protest in Kathmandu as demands remain unaddressed

A high-profile local Taliban figure who announced and justified the 2012 attack on teenage Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai has escaped detention, Pakistan's interior minister confirmed a few days after the militant announced his breakout on social media.

A high-profile local Taliban figure who announced and justified the 2012 attack on teenage Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai has escaped detention, Pakistan's interior minister confirmed a few days after the militant announced his breakout on social media. Former Pakistani Taliban spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan, who claimed responsibility on behalf of his group for scores of Taliban attacks, proclaimed his escape on Twitter and then in an audio message sent to Pakistani media earlier this month. The Pakistani military, which had kept Ehsan in detention for three years, has declined to comment but, asked by reporters about the report, Interior Minister Ijaz Shah, said: "That is correct, that is correct." Also Read: Taliban leader Ehsanullah Ehsan escapes Pakistan's jail Shah, a retired brigadier general, added that "you will hear good news" in response to questions about whether they had progressed in hunting down Ehsan. Ehsan later told reporters that he had already left Pakistan and arrived in Turkey together with his wife and children. He said he had surrendered to the army under a deal, and escaped only after the agreement was not honoured. He said he escaped on January 11 but did not clarify how he had broken out of a maximum-security military prison and made his way to another country. Watch: Pakistan Taliban leader killed in Afghanistan Pakistani analysts and experts on militant Islam have voiced doubt about Ehsan's claim to have escaped. They have speculated that he may have been converted into an asset by the state and that reports he was on the run could be a ruse to plant him back in the Islamist militant scene for use as an informant. After Ehsan's surrender in 2017, local Geo News TV aired an interview he gave in custody in which he asserted that the intelligence services of Pakistan's arch-rival, India, had been funding and arming Pakistani Taliban fighters. The Pakistan army pledged to put Ehsan on trial but has not done so. Taliban attacks in Pakistan have declined in recent months since the army carried out several operations against sanctuaries used by the Islamist militant groups in lawless districts along the border with Afghanistan.

Pakistan confirms escape of Taliban leader who justified Malala shooting

A policeman was killed and two others wounded Tuesday by a roadside bomb aimed at polio vaccination workers in Pakistan's restive northwest, officials said. The attack came a day after Islamabad launched a nationwide anti-polio drive, aiming to immunise tens of millions of children in Pakistan - one of only three countries, along with Afghanistan and Nigeria, where the crippling disease remains endemic.

A policeman was killed and two others wounded Tuesday by a roadside bomb aimed at polio vaccination workers in Pakistan's restive northwest, officials said. The attack came a day after Islamabad launched a nationwide anti-polio drive, aiming to immunise tens of millions of children in Pakistan - one of only three countries, along with Afghanistan and Nigeria, where the crippling disease remains endemic. Opposition to inoculations grew after the CIA organised a fake vaccination drive to help track down Al-Qaeda's former leader Osama Bin Laden in the Pakistani city of Abbottabad. According to Captain Wahid Mehmood, a district police chief, a police van monitoring the polio team was hit on the outskirts of the northwestern city of Dera Ismail Khan. "It was an IED (improvised explosive device) explosion in which one of our policemen got martyred while two others were wounded", Mehmood told reporters. Also Read: Pakistan approaches international community over Kashmir but commits genocide in Balochistan: Baloch leader adaqat Khan, a local police official, confirmed the toll. There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but the Pakistani Taliban and other militants have targeted polio vaccinators in the past. The nationwide polio vaccination campaign aims to vaccinate some 39 million children. Tuesday's attack follows a devastating year in Pakistan's long fight against polio, with at least 17 cases reported in 2020 so far. In 2019, the number of polio cases jumped to 144 from just 12 in 2018. Even as Pakistan has tried to eliminate polio, a new challenge has emerged in the form of a growing global movement against vaccinations. The phenomenon has attracted adherents worldwide, fuelled by medically baseless claims and proliferated on social media resulting in a resurgence of once-eradicated, highly contagious diseases.

Pakistan policeman killed as blast hits polio vaccine team

Nepal on Sunday evacuated 175 of its nationals from the Chinese city of Wuhan, the epicentre of a coronavirus outbreak, an official said, after protests by parents of students studying in the city.

Nepal on Sunday evacuated 175 of its nationals from the Chinese city of Wuhan, the epicentre of a coronavirus outbreak, an official said, after protests by parents of students studying in the city. A plane operated by state-owned Nepal Airlines carrying 134 men and 41 women, mostly students, landed at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport before dawn, Health Ministry spokesman Mahendra Shrestha said. All evacuees will be held in quarantine for two weeks in the nearby town of Bhaktapur. "They will be under the close observation of doctors in quarantine and will be allowed to join their families if found healthy after two weeks," Shrestha added. [ Officials in protective suits prepare to evacuate 175 Nepalese nationals from a Nepal Airlines Airbus A330-200 plane (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Also Read: Screening passengers at airports, Nepal border also under check: Health Minister on coronavirus Last week parents protested in front of the Health Ministry demanding that Nepali students in Wuhan be brought home sooner. The government said delays were due to the time needed to prepare buildings to keep the returnees in quarantine. Nepal has only one confirmed case of coronavirus so far.

Nepali nationals and students evacuated from Wuhan after parents protested

The Bhutanese government is ending the decade-old provision of free entry for Indian tourists.

Thimphu has decided to levy a daily fee of&nbsp; ₹1,200 ($17) for ''regional tourists'' from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, starting July 2020.

Dubbed as a ''Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)'', the entry fee is envisioned to help the government deal with the influx of tourists and to regulate the tourism industry.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bhutan-hold-talks-on-development-cooperation-265490">India, Bhutan hold talks on development cooperation</a> 
 
Passed in the National Assembly yesterday, the ''Tourism Levy and Exemption Bill of Bhutan'' will come into force this summer. Even though it's a considerable daily amount, Bhutan charges $65 to other foreign tourists, with an additional ''cover charge'' of $250 per day.&nbsp;

Most people prefer to visit the western region of Bhutan, which is seen as a more developed area.

To divert the tourists to even the eastern region, the government of Bhutan has dropped SDF for people visiting 11 out of 20 eastern districts.

The provision has different rules for children, for people aged five and below are not expected to pay the amount, while those falling in the age-bracket of six-twelve years old will have to pay ₹600 each.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ad031aa-96f5-4f88-bd8b-364db7d3c428" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_73.jpg" /> 
This photo taken on December 7, 2019 shows Thai tourists taking pictures with Bhutanese tour guides in Punakha province in Bhutan | AFP</h6>

 
According to Dorji Dhradul, the Council Director of Bhutanese tourism, this move will help provide better facilities to regional tourists, The Hindu reported. 
 
However, tour operators think that this fee will prevent people from coming to the country and would also impact the rush season numbers.

The Hindu also reported that the discussions regarding the fee had already taken place between Indian and Bhutanese counterparts.

 
Rising concerns about tourism in connection with pollution, environment, preservation of culture may be the reason for the fee. 
 
Out of the 2,74,000 tourists who visited Bhutan in 2018, nearly&nbsp;1,80,000 were from India. Earlier, tourists from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives had to pay no fee.

The Bhutanese government is ending the decade-old provision of free entry for Indian tourists. Thimphu has decided to levy a daily fee of ₹1,200 ($17) for ''regional tourists'' from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, starting July 2020.

The Bhutanese government is ending the decade-old provision of free entry for Indian tourists. Thimphu has decided to levy a daily fee of ₹1,200 ($17) for ''regional tourists'' from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, starting July 2020. Dubbed as a ''Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)'', the entry fee is envisioned to help the government deal with the influx of tourists and to regulate the tourism industry. Also read: India, Bhutan hold talks on development cooperation Passed in the National Assembly yesterday, the ''Tourism Levy and Exemption Bill of Bhutan'' will come into force this summer. Even though it's a considerable daily amount, Bhutan charges $65 to other foreign tourists, with an additional ''cover charge'' of $250 per day. Most people prefer to visit the western region of Bhutan, which is seen as a more developed area. To divert the tourists to even the eastern region, the government of Bhutan has dropped SDF for people visiting 11 out of 20 eastern districts. The provision has different rules for children, for people aged five and below are not expected to pay the amount, while those falling in the age-bracket of six-twelve years old will have to pay ₹600 each. This photo taken on December 7, 2019 shows Thai tourists taking pictures with Bhutanese tour guides in Punakha province in Bhutan | AFP According to Dorji Dhradul, the Council Director of Bhutanese tourism, this move will help provide better facilities to regional tourists, The Hindu reported. However, tour operators think that this fee will prevent people from coming to the country and would also impact the rush season numbers. The Hindu also reported that the discussions regarding the fee had already taken place between Indian and Bhutanese counterparts. Rising concerns about tourism in connection with pollution, environment, preservation of culture may be the reason for the fee. Out of the 2,74,000 tourists who visited Bhutan in 2018, nearly 1,80,000 were from India. Earlier, tourists from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives had to pay no fee.

Indian tourists visiting Bhutan will have to pay ₹1200 per day starting July

Asian megacities outside of Mainland China are poorly equipped to contain the rapidly spreading novel coronavirus, as per a leading epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong.

In fact, the spread of the novel coronavirus may be impossible to contain once it breaches other megacities in Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-climbs-to-560-in-china-10-more-infected-on-japan-ship-278931">Coronavirus: Death toll climbs to over 560 in China; 10 more infected on Japan ship</a>

Gabriel M Leung, one of the World Health Organisation's leading scientists has said that the prevalence of local cases in large Asian cities is increasing. Additionally, these involve people who had never been to Mainland China before falling ill.

"The big question, which will be settled within the next week or two, is whether these local transmission stains are sustained. It's very difficult to stop the establishment of local sustained transmission", said Leung.

Many scientists believe that such transmissions could lead to self-sustaining outbreaks in cities around the world.

<img alt="ooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6f380fa7-fdba-4395-99fb-7f4eba3ea362" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/127457-untitled-design-3.jpg" />

The Lancet, a leading weekly peer-reviewed medical journal published a paper on the potential domestic and international spread of the n-Cov outbreak.

In it, experts have envisioned two scenarios if the virus is not successfully contained: it joins the family of four coronaviruses that affect millions of people in the winter-spring season. Together, the four are responsible for an estimated one-quarter of all colds

Or it becomes a seasonal-flu-like coronavirus which could very well become another seasonal pathogen that causes pneumonia.

<img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8da361f1-0c4f-4aa0-91f9-511a8f8db910" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_30_0.jpg" />

The death toll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/newborn-baby-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-just-30-hours-after-birth-278877">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;rose to over&nbsp;560 with the number of infections surging to 28,000 in China as officials in Wuhan said they faced a shortage of hospital beds and equipment to treat the patients.

&nbsp;

The virus which has already spread to twenty countries reached a &nbsp;cruise liner in the port of Yokohama south of Tokyo where ten more people tested positive with nearly 3,700 people on the ship facing two weeks quarantine on the Diamond Princess.

(With inputs from agencies)

Asian megacities outside of Mainland China are poorly equipped to contain the rapidly spreading novel coronavirus, as per a leading epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong.

Asian megacities outside of Mainland China are poorly equipped to contain the rapidly spreading novel coronavirus, as per a leading epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong. In fact, the spread of the novel coronavirus may be impossible to contain once it breaches other megacities in Asia. Also read: Coronavirus: Death toll climbs to over 560 in China; 10 more infected on Japan ship Gabriel M Leung, one of the World Health Organisation's leading scientists has said that the prevalence of local cases in large Asian cities is increasing. Additionally, these involve people who had never been to Mainland China before falling ill. "The big question, which will be settled within the next week or two, is whether these local transmission stains are sustained. It's very difficult to stop the establishment of local sustained transmission", said Leung. Many scientists believe that such transmissions could lead to self-sustaining outbreaks in cities around the world. The Lancet, a leading weekly peer-reviewed medical journal published a paper on the potential domestic and international spread of the n-Cov outbreak. In it, experts have envisioned two scenarios if the virus is not successfully contained: it joins the family of four coronaviruses that affect millions of people in the winter-spring season. Together, the four are responsible for an estimated one-quarter of all colds Or it becomes a seasonal-flu-like coronavirus which could very well become another seasonal pathogen that causes pneumonia. The death toll in the coronavirus rose to over 560 with the number of infections surging to 28,000 in China as officials in Wuhan said they faced a shortage of hospital beds and equipment to treat the patients. The virus which has already spread to twenty countries reached a cruise liner in the port of Yokohama south of Tokyo where ten more people tested positive with nearly 3,700 people on the ship facing two weeks quarantine on the Diamond Princess. (With inputs from agencies)

What happens if the coronavirus breaches Asian megacities?

As many as 46 lawmakers of the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-nepal-sri-lanka-confirms-first-case-of-coronavirus-276941">Nepal</a> Communist Party have registered a motion in Parliament urging the government to legalise the cultivation of marijuana and ban the import of alcohol.

The farming, production and trade of marijuana and cannabis are banned in Nepal since 1973.

The lawmakers claim that over 65 countries, including the US, Canada, and Germany who had led the movements for banning marijuana in the 1970s, have already legalised it.

Lawmaker Birodh Khatiwada, from Makawanpur district, proposed the motion, which got support from 45 others lawmakers of the party in the House of Representatives.

Makawanpur is one of the districts that produce the highest amount of marijuana illegally.

The lawmakers have argued that the legalisation can be economically beneficial for the country and would help improve people's standard of living.

"Marijuana has multiple uses. It also helps earn foreign currencies and produce medicines," Khatiwada said.

The government spokesperson and Minister for Information and Communications Technology Gokul Baskota said the government was yet to take any steps towards legalising it.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jay-z-goes-into-the-marijuana-business-234650">Jay-Z goes into the marijuana business</a>

As many as 46 lawmakers of the ruling Nepal Communist Party have registered a motion in Parliament urging the government to legalise the cultivation of marijuana and ban the import of alcohol.

As many as 46 lawmakers of the ruling Nepal Communist Party have registered a motion in Parliament urging the government to legalise the cultivation of marijuana and ban the import of alcohol. The farming, production and trade of marijuana and cannabis are banned in Nepal since 1973. The lawmakers claim that over 65 countries, including the US, Canada, and Germany who had led the movements for banning marijuana in the 1970s, have already legalised it. Lawmaker Birodh Khatiwada, from Makawanpur district, proposed the motion, which got support from 45 others lawmakers of the party in the House of Representatives. Makawanpur is one of the districts that produce the highest amount of marijuana illegally. The lawmakers have argued that the legalisation can be economically beneficial for the country and would help improve people's standard of living. "Marijuana has multiple uses. It also helps earn foreign currencies and produce medicines," Khatiwada said. The government spokesperson and Minister for Information and Communications Technology Gokul Baskota said the government was yet to take any steps towards legalising it. Also read: Jay-Z goes into the marijuana business

Legal marijuana in Nepal? 46 MPs put forward the demand to government

Violent attacks in Afghanistan's war jumped to record levels in the last quarter of 2019, a US government watchdog said Friday, underscoring the conflict's continued toll despite relative calm in Kabul.

The nation's capital and other urban areas have enjoyed a rare stretch of more than two months without the sorts of a large-scale bomb attack that frequently rock the city and cause mass causalities.

Despite the lull, which has come as the US and the Taliban continue talks over a possible deal for American forces to leave Afghanistan, fighting in rural provinces has continued unabated, with reports of skirmishes appearing daily.

According to the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), "enemy-initiated attacks" rose sharply last year, with the fourth quarter seeing a total of 8,204 attacks -- up from 6,974 in the same period in 2018.

September, when the first round of presidential voting was held, saw the highest number of casualty-causing attacks since recording began in 2010.

SIGAR noted that attacks appeared to mirror progress in US-Taliban talks, with incidents dropping earlier in the year, then picking up again after US President Donald Trump temporarily halted negotiations in September.

"A turbulent last six months resulted in increases in overall enemy attacks (6 per cent) and effective attacks (4 per cent) in 2019 compared to the already high levels reported in 2018," SIGAR said in its quarterly report to the US Congress.

The Pentagon has also continued to up the tempo of operations, with American warplanes dropping more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force.

Washington and the Taliban are continuing to wrangle over a possible agreement that would see US troops begin to leave Afghanistan in return for security guarantees.

The US has for months been calling on the militants to reduce violence, but both sides have said little in recent days about the status of talks and the Kabul government wants the US to push for a full ceasefire.

SIGAR's report also found that Afghanistan's security forces struggled to take the fight to the Taliban, relying on US support for more than half their ground operations.

SIGAR also highlighted a slight increase in the number of casualties among Afghan military members, who have sustained massive losses over the past five years.

Violent attacks in Afghanistan's war jumped to record levels in the last quarter of 2019, a US government watchdog said Friday, underscoring the conflict's continued toll despite relative calm in Kabul.

Violent attacks in Afghanistan's war jumped to record levels in the last quarter of 2019, a US government watchdog said Friday, underscoring the conflict's continued toll despite relative calm in Kabul. The nation's capital and other urban areas have enjoyed a rare stretch of more than two months without the sorts of a large-scale bomb attack that frequently rock the city and cause mass causalities. Despite the lull, which has come as the US and the Taliban continue talks over a possible deal for American forces to leave Afghanistan, fighting in rural provinces has continued unabated, with reports of skirmishes appearing daily. According to the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), "enemy-initiated attacks" rose sharply last year, with the fourth quarter seeing a total of 8,204 attacks -- up from 6,974 in the same period in 2018. September, when the first round of presidential voting was held, saw the highest number of casualty-causing attacks since recording began in 2010. SIGAR noted that attacks appeared to mirror progress in US-Taliban talks, with incidents dropping earlier in the year, then picking up again after US President Donald Trump temporarily halted negotiations in September. "A turbulent last six months resulted in increases in overall enemy attacks (6 per cent) and effective attacks (4 per cent) in 2019 compared to the already high levels reported in 2018," SIGAR said in its quarterly report to the US Congress. The Pentagon has also continued to up the tempo of operations, with American warplanes dropping more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force. Washington and the Taliban are continuing to wrangle over a possible agreement that would see US troops begin to leave Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. The US has for months been calling on the militants to reduce violence, but both sides have said little in recent days about the status of talks and the Kabul government wants the US to push for a full ceasefire. SIGAR's report also found that Afghanistan's security forces struggled to take the fight to the Taliban, relying on US support for more than half their ground operations. SIGAR also highlighted a slight increase in the number of casualties among Afghan military members, who have sustained massive losses over the past five years.

Afghanistan violence rises amid US-Taliban talks: Watchdog

Pakistan on Friday halted flights to and from China until February 2 as a precautionary measure after the death toll due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-death-toll-climbs-to-213-277727">coronavirus epidemic</a> spiked to 213, with the WHO declaring it a global health emergency, officials said.

The death toll rose to 213, mostly of elderly people, after 43 new deaths all but one in Hubei, the epicentre of the outbreak, China's national health authorities said, adding that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-wuhan-virus-death-toll-hits-213-in-china-nearly-10000-infected-277621">1,982 new cases had been confirmed</a>, bringing the total to 9,692.

"We have decided to suspend flights to China until February 2," Abdul Sattar Khokhar, Senior Joint Secretary of Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, told reporters here.

He said the decision would be reviewed later depending on the situation.

The step was taken after the World Health Organisation declared that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myths-and-facts-about-deadly-coronavirus-277636">coronavirus threat</a> was a global health emergency.

As part of the measures against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-man-lies-dead-on-a-street-in-china-277765">the deadly virus spread</a>, the national carrier Pakistan International Airlines on Thursday suspended its flights to Beijing.

On Thursday, Pakistan government decided not to evacuate its citizens from the coronavirus-hit Wuhan city to show "solidarity" with China though four Pakistani nationals have contracted the deadly disease in China.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-no-current-plans-to-evacuate-nationals-living-in-china-277780">Pakistan: No current plans to evacuate nationals living in China</a>

There were up to 800 Pakistanis studying in various universities in Wuhan, a city of 11 million people,&nbsp;quarantined by the Chinese authorities to stem the spread of the deadly virus that has killed 170 people and infected nearly 8,000 others.

Meanwhile, a Pakistani student who returned to Karachi from China on his own has been quarantined at a private hospital, officials said.

A top official of the Sindh Health Department said that the student Arsalan had returned privately from China as he resided in the low-income Lyari area.

"But we moved him to the private hospital and placed him in quarantine in an isolation ward on Thursday itself," the official said.

He said samples of nose fluid had been obtained from Arsalan and sent for testing to the national health organisation in Islamabad.

"If the tests of the sample come negative, Arsalan will be immediately released from the hospital but right now we can't take any risks," he said.

Pressure is growing on the Pakistan government to repatriate Pakistani students and citizens from China especially those who were in Wuhan.

Dr Qaiser Sajjad, the secretary-general of the Pakistan Medical Association, said on Friday that the students should be brought back immediately and they can be placed in quarantine in isolation wards set up in government hospitals and if their tests are negative they can be sent home.

Pakistan set up a high-level committee to suggest measures to counter the threat of coronavirus.

Several airlines from various countries have imposed a temporary ban on its operation to and from China, including Germany's Lufthansa, UK's British Airways and India's Air India and Indigo. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan on Friday halted flights to and from China until February 2 as a precautionary measure after the death toll due to coronavirus epidemic spiked to 213, with the WHO declaring it a global health emergency, officials said.

Pakistan on Friday halted flights to and from China until February 2 as a precautionary measure after the death toll due to coronavirus epidemic spiked to 213, with the WHO declaring it a global health emergency, officials said. The death toll rose to 213, mostly of elderly people, after 43 new deaths all but one in Hubei, the epicentre of the outbreak, China's national health authorities said, adding that 1,982 new cases had been confirmed, bringing the total to 9,692. "We have decided to suspend flights to China until February 2," Abdul Sattar Khokhar, Senior Joint Secretary of Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, told reporters here. He said the decision would be reviewed later depending on the situation. The step was taken after the World Health Organisation declared that the coronavirus threat was a global health emergency. As part of the measures against the deadly virus spread, the national carrier Pakistan International Airlines on Thursday suspended its flights to Beijing. On Thursday, Pakistan government decided not to evacuate its citizens from the coronavirus-hit Wuhan city to show "solidarity" with China though four Pakistani nationals have contracted the deadly disease in China. Also Read: Pakistan: No current plans to evacuate nationals living in China There were up to 800 Pakistanis studying in various universities in Wuhan, a city of 11 million people, quarantined by the Chinese authorities to stem the spread of the deadly virus that has killed 170 people and infected nearly 8,000 others. Meanwhile, a Pakistani student who returned to Karachi from China on his own has been quarantined at a private hospital, officials said. A top official of the Sindh Health Department said that the student Arsalan had returned privately from China as he resided in the low-income Lyari area. "But we moved him to the private hospital and placed him in quarantine in an isolation ward on Thursday itself," the official said. He said samples of nose fluid had been obtained from Arsalan and sent for testing to the national health organisation in Islamabad. "If the tests of the sample come negative, Arsalan will be immediately released from the hospital but right now we can't take any risks," he said. Pressure is growing on the Pakistan government to repatriate Pakistani students and citizens from China especially those who were in Wuhan. Dr Qaiser Sajjad, the secretary-general of the Pakistan Medical Association, said on Friday that the students should be brought back immediately and they can be placed in quarantine in isolation wards set up in government hospitals and if their tests are negative they can be sent home. Pakistan set up a high-level committee to suggest measures to counter the threat of coronavirus. Several airlines from various countries have imposed a temporary ban on its operation to and from China, including Germany's Lufthansa, UK's British Airways and India's Air India and Indigo.

Pakistan halts flights to and from China as coronavirus death toll rises

Dhaka is awash with millions of plastic-laminated campaign posters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-protests-erupt-in-dhaka-after-polls-date-clashes-with-saraswati-puja-274447">ahead of elections</a> in the Bangladeshi capital, and environmentalists are up in arms.

These posters - of which there are an estimated 304 million - will likely end up in sewers, rivers and canals, says activist Sharif Jamil. "If they are burnt, they will pollute the air," he adds.

The city's air quality has been ranked as one of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-on-monday-ordered-operators-to-shut-down-mobile-phone-services-to-almost-one-million-rohingya-refugees-living-in-camps-in-the-countrys-southeast-an-official-said-247315">worst in the world</a>.

"The posters will take 400 years to decompose," says Jamil, who is general secretary of the Bangladesh Environment Movement, a campaign group.

Each contains about two grammes of polypropylene plastic, according to the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO).

Spokesman Hossain Shahriar stated the plastics were non-biodegradable and non-recyclable.

"We will be choking under these plastics since we don't have proper recycling mechanisms in the city," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-factories-ordered-shut-to-save-key-river-275835">In bid to save key river from pollution, Bangladesh High Court orders 231 factories to shut down</a>

Bangladesh's High Court last week ordered a halt to the production, display and disposal of plastic-laminated posters for the mayoral and council elections, which take place on Saturday.

But to no avail. Black-and-white posters continue to festoon the streets and parks of the congested, cacophonous metropolis of 18 million people.

Manjur Hossain, head of Dhaka City Corporation's waste management department, said they would deal with the waste after the polls.

"We will separately manage it," he added. 
&nbsp;

Dhaka is awash with millions of plastic-laminated campaign posters ahead of elections in the Bangladeshi capital, and environmentalists are up in arms. These posters - of which there are an estimated 304 million - will likely end up in sewers, rivers and canals, says activist Sharif Jamil.

Dhaka is awash with millions of plastic-laminated campaign posters ahead of elections in the Bangladeshi capital, and environmentalists are up in arms. These posters - of which there are an estimated 304 million - will likely end up in sewers, rivers and canals, says activist Sharif Jamil. "If they are burnt, they will pollute the air," he adds. The city's air quality has been ranked as one of the worst in the world. "The posters will take 400 years to decompose," says Jamil, who is general secretary of the Bangladesh Environment Movement, a campaign group. Each contains about two grammes of polypropylene plastic, according to the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO). Spokesman Hossain Shahriar stated the plastics were non-biodegradable and non-recyclable. "We will be choking under these plastics since we don't have proper recycling mechanisms in the city," he said. Also Read: In bid to save key river from pollution, Bangladesh High Court orders 231 factories to shut down Bangladesh's High Court last week ordered a halt to the production, display and disposal of plastic-laminated posters for the mayoral and council elections, which take place on Saturday. But to no avail. Black-and-white posters continue to festoon the streets and parks of the congested, cacophonous metropolis of 18 million people. Manjur Hossain, head of Dhaka City Corporation's waste management department, said they would deal with the waste after the polls. "We will separately manage it," he added.

Bangladesh capital awash with plastic-coated posters

The cash-strapped Pakistan government has dismissed as "baseless" reports of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-imran-khan-was-trolled-by-netziens-again-277426">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> getting a near-four-fold hike in salary, according to reports.

The clarification was issued after news reports claimed the prime minister's gross salary would be increased from Rs 2,01,574 to around Rs 8,00,000.

"At a time when the prime minister was carrying out a campaign to slash the government's expenditures, the propagation of such a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-draws-flak-for-saying-his-davos-trip-was-funded-by-businessmen-friends-276619">baseless and concocted news report</a> was unfortunate," the Prime Minister's Office spokesperson said in a statement.

Khan recently said he could not manage his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imrans-salary-not-enough-to-run-household-wion-accesses-pak-pms-salary-slip-275968">household expenses</a> from his official salary, the report said.

"We have reduced the expenses of the Prime Minister House by 40 per cent. I live in my own home, pay my expenses. My (official) salary is not enough to cover the expenses of my household," Khan said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-to-get-salary-hike-cabinet-to-hold-meeting-276911">Pakistan PM Imran Khan to get salary hike? Cabinet to hold meeting</a>

He has also claimed that his foreign visits have cost the exchequer 10 times less than his predecessors. Khan said his visit to Switzerland earlier in the month for the World Economic Forum was the "cheapest" by a Pakistani state leader.

Khan said his trip was sponsored by two businessmen.

According to The News, Khan earned Rs 1,96,979 after deductions, as per his February 2019 payslip.

The Pakistan government has been implementing austerity measures to improve the country's finances.

In July last year, Pakistan registered a currency reserve of less than $8 billion - enough to cover only 1.7 months of imports. In August 2018, Pakistan approached the International Monetary Fund for a bailout package after the Khan government took over.

The IMF formally approved the $6 billion loan to Pakistan in July 2019, citing "significant" economic challenges.

Pakistan has so far received billions in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year.

The cash-strapped Pakistan government has dismissed as "baseless" reports of Prime Minister Imran Khan getting a near-four-fold hike in salary, according to reports.

The cash-strapped Pakistan government has dismissed as "baseless" reports of Prime Minister Imran Khan getting a near-four-fold hike in salary, according to reports. The clarification was issued after news reports claimed the prime minister's gross salary would be increased from Rs 2,01,574 to around Rs 8,00,000. "At a time when the prime minister was carrying out a campaign to slash the government's expenditures, the propagation of such a baseless and concocted news report was unfortunate," the Prime Minister's Office spokesperson said in a statement. Khan recently said he could not manage his household expenses from his official salary, the report said. "We have reduced the expenses of the Prime Minister House by 40 per cent. I live in my own home, pay my expenses. My (official) salary is not enough to cover the expenses of my household," Khan said. Also Read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan to get salary hike? Cabinet to hold meeting He has also claimed that his foreign visits have cost the exchequer 10 times less than his predecessors. Khan said his visit to Switzerland earlier in the month for the World Economic Forum was the "cheapest" by a Pakistani state leader. Khan said his trip was sponsored by two businessmen. According to The News, Khan earned Rs 1,96,979 after deductions, as per his February 2019 payslip. The Pakistan government has been implementing austerity measures to improve the country's finances. In July last year, Pakistan registered a currency reserve of less than $8 billion - enough to cover only 1.7 months of imports. In August 2018, Pakistan approached the International Monetary Fund for a bailout package after the Khan government took over. The IMF formally approved the $6 billion loan to Pakistan in July 2019, citing "significant" economic challenges. Pakistan has so far received billions in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year.

Pakistan government dismisses reports of four-fold pay hike for PM Imran Khan

The Punjab government has sought fresh medical reports - within three days - from former Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-critical-picture-in-restaurant-goes-viral-274259">Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif</a> to decide on his application seeking an extension of his stay abroad for medical treatment, local media reported.

In a letter written by the provincial Home Department, dated January 28, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-decision-to-extend-nawaz-sharifs-stay-abroad-due-next-week-270782">Sharif </a>has been asked to submit the requisite reports, failing&nbsp;which the concerned authorities would decide on his application, seeking an extension of his stay abroad, based on existing records.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/forced-conversions-grow-in-pakistan-minorities-face-discrimination-277229">Forced conversions grow in Pakistan, Minorities face discrimination</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-punjab-govt-constitutes-committee-to-decide-on-nawazs-stay-abroad-270263">Sharif </a>had gone to London in November 2019 after the government gave him one-time permission to travel abroad for medical treatment during his bail period of four weeks without the condition of submitting indemnity bonds.

In December, last year, the former Prime Minister had sought an extension in his stay abroad on the expiry of the four weeks granted by the Lahore High Court.

Earlier this month, a picture of Sharif at a restaurant in London had gone viral following which Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government leaders have raised questions over the 'critical' nature of his health.

The Punjab government has sought fresh medical reports - within three days - from former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to decide on his application seeking an extension of his stay abroad for medical treatment, local media reported.

The Punjab government has sought fresh medical reports - within three days - from former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to decide on his application seeking an extension of his stay abroad for medical treatment, local media reported. In a letter written by the provincial Home Department, dated January 28, Sharif has been asked to submit the requisite reports, failing which the concerned authorities would decide on his application, seeking an extension of his stay abroad, based on existing records. Also Read: Forced conversions grow in Pakistan, Minorities face discrimination Sharif had gone to London in November 2019 after the government gave him one-time permission to travel abroad for medical treatment during his bail period of four weeks without the condition of submitting indemnity bonds. In December, last year, the former Prime Minister had sought an extension in his stay abroad on the expiry of the four weeks granted by the Lahore High Court. Earlier this month, a picture of Sharif at a restaurant in London had gone viral following which Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government leaders have raised questions over the 'critical' nature of his health.

Pak: Punjab govt seeks fresh medical reports from Nawaz Sharif within 3 days

Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/troops-in-north-east-would-be-reduced-after-bodoland-elections-says-army-chief-naravane-277221">Bodo agreement</a> as a historic chapter for peace and development in Assam, which sends a clear message that solution to issues is possible by leaving the path of violence and reposing faith in democracy and Constitution.

In a series of tweets, Prime Minister Modi said that the agreement is inspired by the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka Vishwas' and the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat'. "As India remembers pujya Bapu on his punya tithi, Assam is witnessing a historic chapter for peace and development. After a wait of 50 years, agreement with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-extends-ban-on-assams-bodo-insurgent-group-ndfb-for-5-more-years-264229">our Bodo friends</a> heralds a new beginning. It will strengthen Assam's unity, bring development and usher in a bright future," Modi said.

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The accord with our Bodo friends was made while protecting the interest of other communities of Assam. This is a victory for all, it's victory for humanity. It is inspired by the mantraof 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas &amp; Sabka Vishwas', &amp; by the spirit of 'Ek Bharat-Shresth Bharat'.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1222807352962715648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He said that after signing the historic agreement with Bodo organisations, the foremost priority of the government is the development of Bodo areas and work has begun on a comprehensive Rs 1,500 crore package.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bodo-accord-will-usher-in-a-new-dawn-of-peace-harmony-and-togetherness-pm-modi-276933">Bodo Accord will usher in a new dawn of peace, harmony and togetherness: PM Modi</a>

"Our special focus will be on ease of living and ensuring that Bodos benefit fully from government schemes," he said. "Bodo friends joining us on the path of peace sends a clear message that solution to issues is possible when we leave the path of violence and repose faith in democracy and Constitution. I welcome my Bodo friends to the mainstream. We are committed to ensuring the development of Bodo areas," he said.

The Prime Minister said that the accord with Bodo friends "is a message to Assam and other violence-affected parts of the country. Nation's development can be given momentum only in an environment free of violence and fear. Happy that entire energy of our Bodo friends will further strengthen Assam's development," he said.

The Prime Minister said that the accord was made while protecting the interest of other communities of Assam. He said the five-decade-old Bodo issue has found a resolution on the death anniversary of Mahatama Gandhi.

"The accord between the Bodo groups and government will strengthen the unity and integrity of Assam. I welcome the decision of my Bodo friends for leaving violence and reposing faith in democracy and Constitution," he said.

"This is a victory for all. It's a victory for humanity. It is inspired by the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas &amp; Sabka Vishwas', &amp; by the spirit of 'Ek Bharat-Shresth Bharat'," he said in a tweet.

Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the Bodo agreement as a historic chapter for peace and development in Assam, which sends a clear message that solution to issues is possible by leaving the path of violence and reposing faith in democracy and Constitution.

Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the Bodo agreement as a historic chapter for peace and development in Assam, which sends a clear message that solution to issues is possible by leaving the path of violence and reposing faith in democracy and Constitution. In a series of tweets, Prime Minister Modi said that the agreement is inspired by the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka Vishwas' and the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat'. "As India remembers pujya Bapu on his punya tithi, Assam is witnessing a historic chapter for peace and development. After a wait of 50 years, agreement with our Bodo friends heralds a new beginning. It will strengthen Assam's unity, bring development and usher in a bright future," Modi said. The accord with our Bodo friends was made while protecting the interest of other communities of Assam. This is a victory for all, it's victory for humanity. It is inspired by the mantraof 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas & Sabka Vishwas', & by the spirit of 'Ek Bharat-Shresth Bharat'. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 30, 2020 × He said that after signing the historic agreement with Bodo organisations, the foremost priority of the government is the development of Bodo areas and work has begun on a comprehensive Rs 1,500 crore package. Also Read: Bodo Accord will usher in a new dawn of peace, harmony and togetherness: PM Modi "Our special focus will be on ease of living and ensuring that Bodos benefit fully from government schemes," he said. "Bodo friends joining us on the path of peace sends a clear message that solution to issues is possible when we leave the path of violence and repose faith in democracy and Constitution. I welcome my Bodo friends to the mainstream. We are committed to ensuring the development of Bodo areas," he said. The Prime Minister said that the accord with Bodo friends "is a message to Assam and other violence-affected parts of the country. Nation's development can be given momentum only in an environment free of violence and fear. Happy that entire energy of our Bodo friends will further strengthen Assam's development," he said. The Prime Minister said that the accord was made while protecting the interest of other communities of Assam. He said the five-decade-old Bodo issue has found a resolution on the death anniversary of Mahatama Gandhi. "The accord between the Bodo groups and government will strengthen the unity and integrity of Assam. I welcome the decision of my Bodo friends for leaving violence and reposing faith in democracy and Constitution," he said. "This is a victory for all. It's a victory for humanity. It is inspired by the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas & Sabka Vishwas', & by the spirit of 'Ek Bharat-Shresth Bharat'," he said in a tweet.

Latest South Asia News - Prime Minister Modi: Bodo agreement sends message that solution to issues lies in abjuring violence

Under Imran Khan, persecution of minorities is growing in Pakistan. Forced conversions have shot up, places of worship are under attack. WION'S palki has the details.

Gravitas: Pakistan: Attack on Minorities are growing

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 17, 2020

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 16, 2020

Sri Lanka has been at the centre of a two-way strategic competition in South Asia. On the one hand is India, on the other is China. Beijing wants to keep Lanka in its fold. Ahead of SL PM Mahinda's India visit, China has promised enhanced ties with Lanka. WION"S Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Sri Lanka at the heart of India-China strategic competition?

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 15, 2020

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONspeednews #Australia #China #Iran #US

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 14, 2020

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 13, 2020

The second batch of 21 officers of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-elephant-festival-scrutinised-for-beauty-and-bruises-271994">Nepal</a> started their training for the 'prevention of fraud, bribery and corruption' at the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GFSU) in Gandhinagar on Monday.

The six-day training for the Nepali officers reaffirms India's continuing commitment for capacity building of Nepali officers, the Embassy of India said in an official release.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepali-officials-start-anti-corruption-training-in-india-268632">first batch of 21 CIAA officers</a> had received similar training from December 16 to 21 in Gandhinagar. They had found the training, carried out by the experienced faculty members, very fruitful and empowered them with new and useful ideas for carrying out investigations in Nepal, the statement read.

"This is a tailor-made course specially designed at the request of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/flight-operations-at-nepals-international-airport-halted-due-to-weather-condition-power-outage-271988">Government of Nepal</a> for a total of 42 CIAA officers. This course will strengthen the institutional capacity of CIAA to curb corrupt practices and enhance good governance in Nepal," it added.

The course mainly focuses on identifying factors for corruption, its impact on the economy, and methodology for its detection and prevention. It would also enhance the skills of the CIAA Officers for IT-based investigations, sharpen their analytical capabilities and help them learn new methodologies that would empower them to detect, prevent and prosecute corrupt and fraudulent individuals.

GFSU trains forensic experts in the field of forensic science, criminal investigation, security, behavioral science, and criminology. 
The course is fully supported by the Government of India under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reaches-out-to-countries-in-west-asia-amid-us-iran-tensions-272367">Ministry of External Affairs</a>' Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/save-the-holy-temple-of-learning-nepal-former-pm-bhattarai-expresses-solidarity-with-jawaharlal-nehru-university-272420">'Save the holy temple of learning': Nepal ex-PM Bhattarai on Jawaharlal Nehru University violence</a>

The second batch of 21 officers of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) of Nepal started their training for the 'prevention of fraud, bribery and corruption' at the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GFSU) in Gandhinagar on Monday.

The second batch of 21 officers of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) of Nepal started their training for the 'prevention of fraud, bribery and corruption' at the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GFSU) in Gandhinagar on Monday. The six-day training for the Nepali officers reaffirms India's continuing commitment for capacity building of Nepali officers, the Embassy of India said in an official release. The first batch of 21 CIAA officers had received similar training from December 16 to 21 in Gandhinagar. They had found the training, carried out by the experienced faculty members, very fruitful and empowered them with new and useful ideas for carrying out investigations in Nepal, the statement read. "This is a tailor-made course specially designed at the request of Government of Nepal for a total of 42 CIAA officers. This course will strengthen the institutional capacity of CIAA to curb corrupt practices and enhance good governance in Nepal," it added. The course mainly focuses on identifying factors for corruption, its impact on the economy, and methodology for its detection and prevention. It would also enhance the skills of the CIAA Officers for IT-based investigations, sharpen their analytical capabilities and help them learn new methodologies that would empower them to detect, prevent and prosecute corrupt and fraudulent individuals. GFSU trains forensic experts in the field of forensic science, criminal investigation, security, behavioral science, and criminology. The course is fully supported by the Government of India under the Ministry of External Affairs' Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme. Also Read: 'Save the holy temple of learning': Nepal ex-PM Bhattarai on Jawaharlal Nehru University violence

Second batch of Nepali officials arrive for anti-corruption training in India

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan's Dawn newspaper Hameed Haroon on Monday sent a defamation notice to film director <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/film-maker-stirs-pakistan-metoo-debate-with-rape-allegation-257954">Jamshed 'Jami' Mahmood</a> seeking an "unconditional public apology" and the retraction of rape accusations that the former had alleged against him.

The two have been involved in a public dispute since Jami last year in October came forward with the accusation that he was raped by a "media tycoon" 13 years ago and on December 28, named Haroon as his alleged rapist, sources reported.

In response, Haroon had issued a statement categorically rejecting the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-media-mogul-rejects-rape-accusations-by-filmmaker-271209">rape accusations</a> and saying he would initiate legal action.

"Almost two months after circulating your first tweet on being allegedly raped, and strangely and abruptly travelling outside Pakistan, on December 28, 2019, on the social media platform Twitter, you falsely and maliciously labelled our client as an alleged rapist," said the four-page-long legal notice sent today.

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Why im so strongly supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/metoo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#metoo</a> ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but
— jami (@jamiazaad) <a href="https://twitter.com/jamiazaad/status/1185980753584316418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Since then, you have been continuing to circulate this false allegation all over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-chishti-the-man-who-incited-nankana-sahib-gurdwara-violence-arrested-272549">Pakistan</a>, including Karachi and abroad. Our client categorically denies that he has ever perpetrated the sexual assault on anyone and categorically denies that he has raped you," it added.

The notice also said that unless Jami circulates an unconditional public apology and issues a public statement retracting his allegation of rape from all social media posts and other media outlets within 14 days of the receipt of this notice, Haroon reserves the right to initiate civil and criminal legal proceedings against the director under Section 499 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860, and the Defamation Ordinance, 2002, and other applicable laws.

Jami, who is currently in the United States, told sources that he has received the notice and is in the process of perusing it. 
"He added, however, that an apology was 'not even a distant possibility'," said reports. "There is a lot that needs to be done for victims of sexual harassment and for future victims," Jami was quoted as saying.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-will-not-become-part-of-this-us-iran-conflict-shah-mehmood-qureshi-pak-foreign-minister-272573">'Pakistan will not become part of US-Iran conflict': Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi</a>

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan's Dawn newspaper Hameed Haroon on Monday sent a defamation notice to film director Jamshed 'Jami' Mahmood seeking an "unconditional public apology" and the retraction of rape accusations that the former had alleged against him.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan's Dawn newspaper Hameed Haroon on Monday sent a defamation notice to film director Jamshed 'Jami' Mahmood seeking an "unconditional public apology" and the retraction of rape accusations that the former had alleged against him. The two have been involved in a public dispute since Jami last year in October came forward with the accusation that he was raped by a "media tycoon" 13 years ago and on December 28, named Haroon as his alleged rapist, sources reported. In response, Haroon had issued a statement categorically rejecting the rape accusations and saying he would initiate legal action. "Almost two months after circulating your first tweet on being allegedly raped, and strangely and abruptly travelling outside Pakistan, on December 28, 2019, on the social media platform Twitter, you falsely and maliciously labelled our client as an alleged rapist," said the four-page-long legal notice sent today. Why im so strongly supporting #metoo ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but — jami (@jamiazaad) October 20, 2019 × "Since then, you have been continuing to circulate this false allegation all over Pakistan, including Karachi and abroad. Our client categorically denies that he has ever perpetrated the sexual assault on anyone and categorically denies that he has raped you," it added. The notice also said that unless Jami circulates an unconditional public apology and issues a public statement retracting his allegation of rape from all social media posts and other media outlets within 14 days of the receipt of this notice, Haroon reserves the right to initiate civil and criminal legal proceedings against the director under Section 499 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860, and the Defamation Ordinance, 2002, and other applicable laws. Jami, who is currently in the United States, told sources that he has received the notice and is in the process of perusing it. "He added, however, that an apology was 'not even a distant possibility'," said reports. "There is a lot that needs to be done for victims of sexual harassment and for future victims," Jami was quoted as saying. Also Read: 'Pakistan will not become part of US-Iran conflict': Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi

Rape accused Dawn media CEO Haroon sends defamation notice to Jami

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh">Bangladesh</a>'s high court ordered the government Monday to introduce steps by next year broadly banning single-use plastics following a landmark case brought by environmental groups.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-comes-up-with-anger-management-park-to-cope-with-pollution-stress-31071">Pollution</a> from single-use plastics is a major problem in Bangladesh, where nearly 170 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/around-445-trespassers-trying-to-return-to-bangladesh-detained-in-last-two-months-bgb-dg-271787">people</a> live in a tiny sliver of low-lying land crisscrossed by hundreds of rivers and tributaries.

Waterways are frequently clogged by plastic garbage, leading to frequent flooding during the monsoon and causing widespread damage to the sensitive coastal mangroves.

"The high court has directed the government to prohibit the use of single-use plastic items in hotels, motels and restaurants throughout Bangladesh within a year," said Rizwana Hasan, a top <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cold-snap-kills-50-in-bangladesh-270847">environmental</a> lawyer who moved the public interest litigation through the court.

"The government has also been directed to make all coastal areas free of polythene bags and single-use plastic items within the same period," Hasan told sources.

The court also ordered the government to fully implement a landmark 2002 order to ban the use of polythene bags.

Two decades ago Bangladesh became one of the first countries to ban polythene bags, but the order was never enforced - owing partly to lobbying by plastic bag manufacturers.

Still, Hasan called Monday's ruling an "important" step.

Bangladesh's high court ordered the government Monday to introduce steps by next year broadly banning single-use plastics following a landmark case brought by environmental groups.

Bangladesh's high court ordered the government Monday to introduce steps by next year broadly banning single-use plastics following a landmark case brought by environmental groups. Pollution from single-use plastics is a major problem in Bangladesh, where nearly 170 million people live in a tiny sliver of low-lying land crisscrossed by hundreds of rivers and tributaries. Waterways are frequently clogged by plastic garbage, leading to frequent flooding during the monsoon and causing widespread damage to the sensitive coastal mangroves. "The high court has directed the government to prohibit the use of single-use plastic items in hotels, motels and restaurants throughout Bangladesh within a year," said Rizwana Hasan, a top environmental lawyer who moved the public interest litigation through the court. "The government has also been directed to make all coastal areas free of polythene bags and single-use plastic items within the same period," Hasan told sources. The court also ordered the government to fully implement a landmark 2002 order to ban the use of polythene bags. Two decades ago Bangladesh became one of the first countries to ban polythene bags, but the order was never enforced - owing partly to lobbying by plastic bag manufacturers. Still, Hasan called Monday's ruling an "important" step.

Bangladesh court orders government to ban single-use plastics

The sexual assault of a student at a top university in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh">Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;triggered angry protests in&nbsp;the country on Monday, with demonstrators urging the death penalty for convicted rapists.&nbsp;

The South Asian nation has seen a doubling of reported <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-media-mogul-rejects-rape-accusations-by-filmmaker-271209">rape cases</a> in the last year, according to activists, triggering spasms of public anger directed at the glacial response of police and the justice system.&nbsp;

"Rape is an unforgivable offence. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/around-445-trespassers-trying-to-return-to-bangladesh-detained-in-last-two-months-bgb-dg-271787">Bangladesh</a>, the punishment for rape is very slow," said demonstrator Shahela, who like the 21-year-old victim of Sunday's attack is a student at the prestigious Dhaka University in the capital.&nbsp;

"We want quick executions for the perpetrators so that others are deterred from committing such crimes."

Demonstrators linked arms and marched along key roads in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-caa-and-nrc-are-affecting-india-bangladesh-ties-271710">Dhaka</a>, halting traffic to demand the perpetrator's arrest within 24 hours.

"We are working to arrest him," senior police official Sazzadur Rahman told sources.

Police said around 1,500 students joined the protests, which remained peaceful. Reports estimated that twice as many people joined the rally.&nbsp;

The victim in Sunday's attack was travelling to a friend's home when she was gagged, taken to a remote area in Dhaka's outskirts and sexually assaulted.

Local rights group <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladeshis-protest-after-sexually-assaulted-girl-burned-to-death-212060">Ain O Salish Kendra</a> said that there were 1,413 reported rape cases in&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;last year, double the number recorded in 2018. Dozens of victims were killed while 10 committed suicide after they were attacked.&nbsp;

Nationwide protests gripped&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;in April after a 19-year-old student who accused her seminary's head teacher of sexual harassment was doused in kerosene and set on fire.

Sixteen people were later sentenced to death over the attack, including the teacher.

Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh sentences 16 to death for killing teenager in harassment case

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The sexual assault of a student at a top university in Bangladesh triggered angry protests in the country on Monday, with demonstrators urging the death penalty for convicted rapists.

The sexual assault of a student at a top university in Bangladesh triggered angry protests in the country on Monday, with demonstrators urging the death penalty for convicted rapists. The South Asian nation has seen a doubling of reported rape cases in the last year, according to activists, triggering spasms of public anger directed at the glacial response of police and the justice system. "Rape is an unforgivable offence. In Bangladesh, the punishment for rape is very slow," said demonstrator Shahela, who like the 21-year-old victim of Sunday's attack is a student at the prestigious Dhaka University in the capital. "We want quick executions for the perpetrators so that others are deterred from committing such crimes." Demonstrators linked arms and marched along key roads in Dhaka, halting traffic to demand the perpetrator's arrest within 24 hours. "We are working to arrest him," senior police official Sazzadur Rahman told sources. Police said around 1,500 students joined the protests, which remained peaceful. Reports estimated that twice as many people joined the rally. The victim in Sunday's attack was travelling to a friend's home when she was gagged, taken to a remote area in Dhaka's outskirts and sexually assaulted. Local rights group Ain O Salish Kendra said that there were 1,413 reported rape cases in Bangladesh last year, double the number recorded in 2018. Dozens of victims were killed while 10 committed suicide after they were attacked. Nationwide protests gripped Bangladesh in April after a 19-year-old student who accused her seminary's head teacher of sexual harassment was doused in kerosene and set on fire. Sixteen people were later sentenced to death over the attack, including the teacher. Watch: Bangladesh sentences 16 to death for killing teenager in harassment case ×

Student's rape triggers protests in Dhaka

Oil prices climbed above $70 a barrel for the first time in four months on Monday amid fears that the US airstrike that killed Iran’s top military commander may trigger a retaliation and disrupt global energy supplies. #WestAsia #USIran #Oilprices

Oil prices top $70 a barrel amid West Asia conflict

Pakistan's Punjab government is likely to make a decision next week over allowing Nawaz Sharif to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-punjab-govt-constitutes-committee-to-decide-on-nawazs-stay-abroad-270263">stay abroad for an extended period</a> for medical treatment, a government source told Dawn. 
 
The decision would be made after getting the former Prime Minister's medical reports assessed from a panel of local doctors, added the source. 
 
"The government has received <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-likely-to-be-flown-to-united-states-on-december-16-for-further-treatment-267288">Sharif's medical reports</a> and will get them assessed early next week from a panel of doctors," the source said. 
 
This comes after the government formed a four-member committee headed by Punjab Law Minister Mohammad Basharat Raja to consider an application filed by Sharif, seeking an extension of his stay abroad for his medical treatment on grounds that his condition is "very critical." 
 
The former Pakistan PM had gone to London last month after the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government gave him <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctors-have-advised-shifting-nawaz-sharif-to-us-for-treatment-pml-n-267225">one-time permission to travel abroad</a> for medical treatment during his bail period of four weeks without the condition of submitting indemnity bonds.

Pakistan's Punjab government is likely to make a decision next week over allowing Nawaz Sharif to stay abroad for an extended period for medical treatment, a government source told Dawn.

Pakistan's Punjab government is likely to make a decision next week over allowing Nawaz Sharif to stay abroad for an extended period for medical treatment, a government source told Dawn. The decision would be made after getting the former Prime Minister's medical reports assessed from a panel of local doctors, added the source. "The government has received Sharif's medical reports and will get them assessed early next week from a panel of doctors," the source said. This comes after the government formed a four-member committee headed by Punjab Law Minister Mohammad Basharat Raja to consider an application filed by Sharif, seeking an extension of his stay abroad for his medical treatment on grounds that his condition is "very critical." The former Pakistan PM had gone to London last month after the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government gave him one-time permission to travel abroad for medical treatment during his bail period of four weeks without the condition of submitting indemnity bonds.

Pakistan: Decision to extend Nawaz Sharif's stay abroad due next week

Taliban militants have kidnapped 27 peace activists from a highway in Afghanistan's western Farah province, local officials and peace activists said on Wednesday.

Massoud Bakhtawar, the deputy governor of Farah, said the activists were traveling with six cars from Herat to neighbouring Farah on Tuesday evening when their convoy was stopped by the Taliban on a main highway and taken to an unknown location.

Bismillah Watandost, a member of the group, said the activists had planned to travel to various parts of Farah to call for peace and a ceasefire between the warring parties in Afghanistan.

The group, People's Peace Movement, was formed to protest violent attacks after a car bomb exploded at a sport stadium in southern Helmand province last year killing 17 civilians and wounding 50 others.

The Taliban insurgents fighting a Western-backed Kabul government now control more territory than at any time since their austere regime was toppled by US-led forces in 2001. A representative for the insurgents was not immediately available to comment.

Since last year, the activists have traveled to various parts of the country, often marching through Taliban-controlled areas to demand peace and a ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghan government.

The Taliban have previously accused the activists of being financed by the Kabul government among others, which the group have denied.

Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of security forces and 2,400 US&nbsp;military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001.

US&nbsp;officials have increased diplomatic efforts to reach a peace settlement with the Taliban and to withdraw thousands of troops in exchange for security guarantees.

Taliban militants have kidnapped 27 peace activists from a highway in Afghanistan's western Farah province, local officials and peace activists said on Wednesday.

Taliban militants have kidnapped 27 peace activists from a highway in Afghanistan's western Farah province, local officials and peace activists said on Wednesday. Massoud Bakhtawar, the deputy governor of Farah, said the activists were traveling with six cars from Herat to neighbouring Farah on Tuesday evening when their convoy was stopped by the Taliban on a main highway and taken to an unknown location. Bismillah Watandost, a member of the group, said the activists had planned to travel to various parts of Farah to call for peace and a ceasefire between the warring parties in Afghanistan. The group, People's Peace Movement, was formed to protest violent attacks after a car bomb exploded at a sport stadium in southern Helmand province last year killing 17 civilians and wounding 50 others. The Taliban insurgents fighting a Western-backed Kabul government now control more territory than at any time since their austere regime was toppled by US-led forces in 2001. A representative for the insurgents was not immediately available to comment. Since last year, the activists have traveled to various parts of the country, often marching through Taliban-controlled areas to demand peace and a ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghan government. The Taliban have previously accused the activists of being financed by the Kabul government among others, which the group have denied. Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of security forces and 2,400 US military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001. US officials have increased diplomatic efforts to reach a peace settlement with the Taliban and to withdraw thousands of troops in exchange for security guarantees.

27 local peace activists abducted in western Afghanistan

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country.

Ashraf Ghani recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-elections-preliminary-results-out-ghani-wins-presidential-poll-269554">won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll</a>. The preliminary results&nbsp;were announced on Sunday, nearly three months after Afghans voted in elections that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims.

Modi had invited Ghani after a telephonic conversation to congratulate him on his victory. Ghani has said that he would visit India at "an appropriate time".

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My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1209413101751279616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani had tweeted.

Ghani also said that the two leaders will discuss a range of regional and international issues during his visit to India.

"My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani tweeted.

According to Ghani, Modi asserted the need for both countries to fight terrorism and extended his support to the Afghan-led peace process in the region.

"He said, India as a friend, neighbour and the world's largest democracy is fully supporting Afghanistan's democratic rule. India supports the Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and controlled peace process. And we are also with Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan," he added.

"Modi said, India is your second home, and offered a formal invitation to visit. We will discuss a range of regional and international issues during this visit. I thank the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-strong-ties-with-islamic-countries-says-relations-have-strengthened-269577">Prime Minister</a> for the invitation and will travel to India at an appropriate time," Ghani tweeted.

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We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan. I appreciated the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, not only for being a good neighbor and friend, but also for India's strategic partnership.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1209413108772605953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent.

Over 1.8 million people cast their votes in the elections which were held on September 28.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-round-two-of-presidential-poll-possible-amid-complaints-269766">might go to a second-round</a> as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

(With inputs from ANI)

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country. Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll.

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country. Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll. The preliminary results were announced on Sunday, nearly three months after Afghans voted in elections that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims. Modi had invited Ghani after a telephonic conversation to congratulate him on his victory. Ghani has said that he would visit India at "an appropriate time". My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) December 24, 2019 × "My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani had tweeted. Ghani also said that the two leaders will discuss a range of regional and international issues during his visit to India. "My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani tweeted. According to Ghani, Modi asserted the need for both countries to fight terrorism and extended his support to the Afghan-led peace process in the region. "He said, India as a friend, neighbour and the world's largest democracy is fully supporting Afghanistan's democratic rule. India supports the Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and controlled peace process. And we are also with Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan," he added. "Modi said, India is your second home, and offered a formal invitation to visit. We will discuss a range of regional and international issues during this visit. I thank the Prime Minister for the invitation and will travel to India at an appropriate time," Ghani tweeted. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan. I appreciated the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, not only for being a good neighbor and friend, but also for India's strategic partnership. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) December 24, 2019 × According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent. Over 1.8 million people cast their votes in the elections which were held on September 28. Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory. (With inputs from ANI)

Afghan President-elect Ashraf Ghani accepts PM Modi's invitation to visit India

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