At the UN, President Joe Biden declared that the US is opening an era of relentless diplomacy in Afghanistan. But, countries in South Asia are facing the consequences. Today, India seizes $2.7 billion of heroin from Afghanistan in Gujarat. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas US Edition: India seizes $2.7 billion of heroin from Afghanistan in Gujarat

The Taliban said on Tuesday that they admire Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan`s efforts for peace, stability and an inclusive government in Afghanistan, the Express Tribune reported. 
 
"We do not see the positive statements of Prime Minister Imran Khan as interference in the internal matters of Afghanistan," said the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Zabiullah Mujahid, at a news conference in Kabul. 
 
The spokesperson added that Pakistan, Qatar and China are playing an active role for stability in Afghanistan. 
 
"We will welcome the role of the countries which are interested to work with good intent for peace and stability in Afghanistan," he added, the report said. 
 
"We are heading towards an inclusive government. More people from different ethnicities, including Hazaras, technocrats and educated people, have been inducted in the interim cabinet. The cabinet formation is not complete yet and more people will be included in it," Mujahid said. 
 
Responding to a question, the spokesperson expressed confidence that economic activities would soon resume in the country. 
 
Ahead of talks on Afghanistan at the UN General Assembly, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that the most urgent priority is averting an even deeper economic collapse of the neighbouring nation that could trigger a humanitarian catastrophe. 
 
On September 3, the Taliban had heaped praise on Pakistan for its longstanding contributions towards the people of Afghanistan.

The Taliban said on Tuesday that they admire Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan`s efforts for peace, stability and an inclusive government in Afghanistan, the Express Tribune reported.

The Taliban said on Tuesday that they admire Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan`s efforts for peace, stability and an inclusive government in Afghanistan, the Express Tribune reported. "We do not see the positive statements of Prime Minister Imran Khan as interference in the internal matters of Afghanistan," said the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Zabiullah Mujahid, at a news conference in Kabul. The spokesperson added that Pakistan, Qatar and China are playing an active role for stability in Afghanistan. "We will welcome the role of the countries which are interested to work with good intent for peace and stability in Afghanistan," he added, the report said. "We are heading towards an inclusive government. More people from different ethnicities, including Hazaras, technocrats and educated people, have been inducted in the interim cabinet. The cabinet formation is not complete yet and more people will be included in it," Mujahid said. Responding to a question, the spokesperson expressed confidence that economic activities would soon resume in the country. Ahead of talks on Afghanistan at the UN General Assembly, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that the most urgent priority is averting an even deeper economic collapse of the neighbouring nation that could trigger a humanitarian catastrophe. On September 3, the Taliban had heaped praise on Pakistan for its longstanding contributions towards the people of Afghanistan.

Taliban admire Pakistan PM Imran Khan's efforts for Afghanistan

A case was registered against infamous Islamic cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz in Islamabad on Sunday after Afghan Taliban flags were found hoisted on his seminary, reported Dawn. Cases were registered against his collaborators as well as students of the seminary. All of these individuals including Aziz were booked under laws that dealt with terrorism.

Maulana Aziz is the administrator of thes seminary. When police came to respond to the situation, Aziz reportedly threatened them with consequences and took name of the Taliban. The police later tweeted that the flags were removed.

This is not the first time Taliban flags have been hoisted on the seminary. After August 21, there have been three such instances.

A they took action againsy the act of hoisting Taliban flags, an anti-riot unit accompanied the police contingent. As per the report in Dawn, students of the seminary came out and even climbed the roof as they attempted to taunt the policemen. However, there was no physical altercation. Maulana Aziz and few of his students brandished weapons.

After negotiations with Maulana Aziz, it was agreed that the Taliban flags would be removed.

Police officials have been mentioned as saying that as Taiban flags were hoisted, it spread terror among the local residents.

A case was registered against infamous Islamic cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz in Islamabad on Sunday after Afghan Taliban flags were found hoisted on his seminary, reported Dawn.

A case was registered against infamous Islamic cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz in Islamabad on Sunday after Afghan Taliban flags were found hoisted on his seminary, reported Dawn. Cases were registered against his collaborators as well as students of the seminary. All of these individuals including Aziz were booked under laws that dealt with terrorism. Maulana Aziz is the administrator of thes seminary. When police came to respond to the situation, Aziz reportedly threatened them with consequences and took name of the Taliban. The police later tweeted that the flags were removed. This is not the first time Taliban flags have been hoisted on the seminary. After August 21, there have been three such instances. A they took action againsy the act of hoisting Taliban flags, an anti-riot unit accompanied the police contingent. As per the report in Dawn, students of the seminary came out and even climbed the roof as they attempted to taunt the policemen. However, there was no physical altercation. Maulana Aziz and few of his students brandished weapons. After negotiations with Maulana Aziz, it was agreed that the Taliban flags would be removed. Police officials have been mentioned as saying that as Taiban flags were hoisted, it spread terror among the local residents.

Pakistan: Infamous cleric booked for hoisting Taliban flag on seminary in Islamabad

India and Russia have decided to coordinate their strategies on Afghanistan. Moscow is concerned about instability in Central Asia, while New Delhi worries about Pak-sponsored terror in South Asia. Palki Sharma tells you more about this strategic convergence.

Gravitas: India, Russia to contain Afghan terror threat

In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India &amp; any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of fall of Kabul to Taliban since 15th August.

The development was announced hours after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi &amp; Russian President Vladimir Putin held 45-minute telephonic conversation on Tuesday.&nbsp;

In a tweet, PM said, "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan..."&nbsp;

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Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues.
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Both sides have had regular exchanges on Afghanistan, including during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's Russia visit &amp; Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's India visit earlier this year.

During Modi-Putin talks, both sides agreed to cooperate on counter-terror &amp; drug threat "emanating from the territory of Afghanistan", Russian readout of talks said.

They also "noted the importance of coordinated efforts" which would "contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in this country, ensuring security in the region as a whole".&nbsp;

The situation in Afghanistan is seen as security challenge to both India &amp; Russia. For India, Afghanistan could become a safe haven for Pakistan-based terror groups, and for Russia, a spillover of the crisis can impact friendly central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/evacuations-must-be-completed-by-august-31-afghans-not-allowed-to-go-to-airport-taliban-408053">Evacuations must be completed by August 31, Afghans not allowed to go to airport: Taliban</a>

Important to remember, India's Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA) Pankaj Saran met Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev last week in Moscow &amp; discussed Afghanistan. Last week was the first week since the fall of Kabul, and Taliban emerging as dominant force in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

During the talks both sides also had conversation on trade, Covid crisis, manufacture of Russian Vaccines in India. Next few months will see increased India, Russia engagement, given India will host BRICS summit in September as the chair of the grouping, Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-awaited India visit for annual India Russia bilateral summit &amp; deliveries of the first units of S400 air defence systems.

In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India & any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of fall of Kabul to Taliban since 15th August.

In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India & any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of fall of Kabul to Taliban since 15th August. The development was announced hours after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Russian President Vladimir Putin held 45-minute telephonic conversation on Tuesday. In a tweet, PM said, "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan..." Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 24, 2021 × Both sides have had regular exchanges on Afghanistan, including during External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's Russia visit & Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's India visit earlier this year. During Modi-Putin talks, both sides agreed to cooperate on counter-terror & drug threat "emanating from the territory of Afghanistan", Russian readout of talks said. They also "noted the importance of coordinated efforts" which would "contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in this country, ensuring security in the region as a whole". The situation in Afghanistan is seen as security challenge to both India & Russia. For India, Afghanistan could become a safe haven for Pakistan-based terror groups, and for Russia, a spillover of the crisis can impact friendly central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan. Also Read: Evacuations must be completed by August 31, Afghans not allowed to go to airport: Taliban Important to remember, India's Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA) Pankaj Saran met Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev last week in Moscow & discussed Afghanistan. Last week was the first week since the fall of Kabul, and Taliban emerging as dominant force in Afghanistan. During the talks both sides also had conversation on trade, Covid crisis, manufacture of Russian Vaccines in India. Next few months will see increased India, Russia engagement, given India will host BRICS summit in September as the chair of the grouping, Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-awaited India visit for annual India Russia bilateral summit & deliveries of the first units of S400 air defence systems.

India, Russia form 'permanent bilateral channel' for consultations on Afghanistan

Afghanistan’s Panjshir Valley is in the news for last few days. Firstly because of the resistance movement led by Ahmed Massoud and Amrullah Saleh, ex Vice President who declared himself as president after Mr Ashraf Ghani fled from the country fearing his life from Taliban and secondly because it its strategic location.

Panjshir valley has never been captured by any invading force which is due to its topography &amp; strategic location. During ancient times and the invasion of Greek Armies under Alexender, the valley could not be won until Alexender himself made a treaty with the ethnic tribes located here and gave them place in his Army.

<img alt="Panjshir Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5a03ed9-ae83-4498-bdaf-cb49934fa17b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9LJ8KR.jpg" />

During the Khalsa rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the valley remained totally untouched. Even during various Afghan Wars, British Forces never dared to enter the valley by force. History is evident that anyone who tried to do so, perished in the mountains of Hindukush. Panjshir has a legend that during 10th Century AD, five brothers constructed a dam on the orders of the ruler of Ghazni (Probably Mehmood of Ghazni) after which they were given title of Sher (Lion) and their place of residence became “Panjshir Valley”. Currently it is home to over a lakh ethnic Tajik people who settled in this area for a long time.&nbsp;

During the Soviet Invasion, the valley gained notoriety when it was unconquered for almost ten years despite of soviet forces trying all their weapons and tactics. It became their graveyard too. Legendary Ahmed Shah Massoud popularly known as “Lion of Panjshir” repulsed every attack and controlled the valley until he was assassinated in 2001. Despite of all their efforts Taliban 1.0 (Initial Taliban which came in power during 1994-1997) was not able to even enter the valley and the land of five lions remained undefeated even till now.

<img alt="Panjshir valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2724c55-7afc-4d25-90e8-44fb93d40d5d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9LJ8KG.jpg" />

Only whose people were able to enter the valley who maintained a healthy relationship with the Tajiks there. Enemies failed miserably. This is the prime reason why Taliban 2.0 is insisting on talks rather than their common tactics of advancing with force. Recently they retreated from some of the areas too after suffering heavy casualties which proves that Panjshir Valley is not a cakewalk for anyone. Here are five reasons which make this valley special and a graveyard for any invader.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Topography -&nbsp;Panjshir is located in Hindukush Mountains and the entire valley is located along Panjshir River which flows all along its length. The mountain cliffs on both side of the river are very high and have a sheer gradient that it is not possible to cross them through land route. It is not easy to navigate these mountains for anyone. Although the mountains so have some trekking routes which are known only to locals.&nbsp;

<img alt="Panjshir Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="97c0dbeb-a54b-4e1d-9e4d-7574a3360a87" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9LJ8KM.jpg" />

2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Limited approach routes - Approaching this valley is a big challenge. It has two prominent passes which are the only gateway to the outside world. Khawak Pass connects it with Baghlan Province of and Anjuman Pass which connects it to Badakhshan provinces of Afghanistan. Except these two passes, there is another route through Jabal Siraj which connects it with Bagram and Kabul but that is not so significant for a large force to enter the valley. Topography of the two passes mentioned above is also complicated and any advancing force can be stopped easily by a group of mercenaries.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-envoy-says-panjshir-province-can-be-anti-taliban-stronghold-406654">Afghan envoy says Panjshir province can be anti-Taliban stronghold</a>

3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ethnic Affiliation -&nbsp;Almost 100% of the population of this valley are Ethnic Tajiks who are very closely associated with each other. Being Tajik, they do get support from Tajikistan. Since some of the routes across Badakhshan are connected to Tajikistan, the support lines are well laid and people as well as government in Tajikistan is always ready to help their fellow Tajik people.&nbsp;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Rich in resources - Among all the regions of Afghanistan, Panjshir valley is among the richest when it comes to natural resources. The valley is fed by Panjshir River which helps in irrigation and drinking water, it has rich deposits of Silver, Various types of crystals including Emeralds and rare earth minerals too. Due to its topography, mining of such resources was limited however the people staying here have been able to maintain a healthy lifestyle and the living standard of Panjshir Valley is better than the national average of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

5.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fortress of Tajik Fighters - Tajik fighters have been fighting the invading forces for over four decades. Initially it was Soviet Union, then Taliban 1.0 and once again Taliban 2.0. Over these years, they have converted this valley into a formidable fortress. They built tunnels, underground bunkers, Bunkers and fortifications on all approaches, escape routes and routes to misguide any invader. These have helped them to survive till now.&nbsp;

<img alt="Panjshir Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64ade48f-82af-4b18-96e8-44bee297d1bd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9LJ8JP.jpg" />

It is not unusual to call Panjshir Valley as graveyard of the invaders because anyone who tried to conquer it by force, perished in these mountains right from Greeks, Central Asian invaders, Persians, British, Soviet and even Taliban. Current resistance movement is led by Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh who is known to be a spy master. So far, his forces have been successful against Taliban in the Valley and nearby areas but to liberate Afghanistan, they must come out of their fortress which is Panjshir Valley to fight. How will they succeed in this, only time can answer?

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Afghanistan’s Panjshir Valley is in the news for last few days. Firstly because of the resistance movement led by Ahmed Massoud and Amrullah Saleh, ex Vice President who declared himself as president after Mr Ashraf Ghani fled from the country fearing his life from Taliban and secondly because it its strategic location.

Afghanistan’s Panjshir Valley is in the news for last few days. Firstly because of the resistance movement led by Ahmed Massoud and Amrullah Saleh, ex Vice President who declared himself as president after Mr Ashraf Ghani fled from the country fearing his life from Taliban and secondly because it its strategic location. Panjshir valley has never been captured by any invading force which is due to its topography & strategic location. During ancient times and the invasion of Greek Armies under Alexender, the valley could not be won until Alexender himself made a treaty with the ethnic tribes located here and gave them place in his Army. During the Khalsa rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the valley remained totally untouched. Even during various Afghan Wars, British Forces never dared to enter the valley by force. History is evident that anyone who tried to do so, perished in the mountains of Hindukush. Panjshir has a legend that during 10th Century AD, five brothers constructed a dam on the orders of the ruler of Ghazni (Probably Mehmood of Ghazni) after which they were given title of Sher (Lion) and their place of residence became “Panjshir Valley”. Currently it is home to over a lakh ethnic Tajik people who settled in this area for a long time. During the Soviet Invasion, the valley gained notoriety when it was unconquered for almost ten years despite of soviet forces trying all their weapons and tactics. It became their graveyard too. Legendary Ahmed Shah Massoud popularly known as “Lion of Panjshir” repulsed every attack and controlled the valley until he was assassinated in 2001. Despite of all their efforts Taliban 1.0 (Initial Taliban which came in power during 1994-1997) was not able to even enter the valley and the land of five lions remained undefeated even till now. Only whose people were able to enter the valley who maintained a healthy relationship with the Tajiks there. Enemies failed miserably. This is the prime reason why Taliban 2.0 is insisting on talks rather than their common tactics of advancing with force. Recently they retreated from some of the areas too after suffering heavy casualties which proves that Panjshir Valley is not a cakewalk for anyone. Here are five reasons which make this valley special and a graveyard for any invader. 1. Topography - Panjshir is located in Hindukush Mountains and the entire valley is located along Panjshir River which flows all along its length. The mountain cliffs on both side of the river are very high and have a sheer gradient that it is not possible to cross them through land route. It is not easy to navigate these mountains for anyone. Although the mountains so have some trekking routes which are known only to locals. 2. Limited approach routes - Approaching this valley is a big challenge. It has two prominent passes which are the only gateway to the outside world. Khawak Pass connects it with Baghlan Province of and Anjuman Pass which connects it to Badakhshan provinces of Afghanistan. Except these two passes, there is another route through Jabal Siraj which connects it with Bagram and Kabul but that is not so significant for a large force to enter the valley. Topography of the two passes mentioned above is also complicated and any advancing force can be stopped easily by a group of mercenaries. Also Read: Afghan envoy says Panjshir province can be anti-Taliban stronghold 3. Ethnic Affiliation - Almost 100% of the population of this valley are Ethnic Tajiks who are very closely associated with each other. Being Tajik, they do get support from Tajikistan. Since some of the routes across Badakhshan are connected to Tajikistan, the support lines are well laid and people as well as government in Tajikistan is always ready to help their fellow Tajik people. 4. Rich in resources - Among all the regions of Afghanistan, Panjshir valley is among the richest when it comes to natural resources. The valley is fed by Panjshir River which helps in irrigation and drinking water, it has rich deposits of Silver, Various types of crystals including Emeralds and rare earth minerals too. Due to its topography, mining of such resources was limited however the people staying here have been able to maintain a healthy lifestyle and the living standard of Panjshir Valley is better than the national average of Afghanistan. 5. Fortress of Tajik Fighters - Tajik fighters have been fighting the invading forces for over four decades. Initially it was Soviet Union, then Taliban 1.0 and once again Taliban 2.0. Over these years, they have converted this valley into a formidable fortress. They built tunnels, underground bunkers, Bunkers and fortifications on all approaches, escape routes and routes to misguide any invader. These have helped them to survive till now. It is not unusual to call Panjshir Valley as graveyard of the invaders because anyone who tried to conquer it by force, perished in these mountains right from Greeks, Central Asian invaders, Persians, British, Soviet and even Taliban. Current resistance movement is led by Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh who is known to be a spy master. So far, his forces have been successful against Taliban in the Valley and nearby areas but to liberate Afghanistan, they must come out of their fortress which is Panjshir Valley to fight. How will they succeed in this, only time can answer? (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Panjshir Valley: A graveyard for invaders

Sri Lanka on Tuesday signed a loan agreement with China worth 2 billion Renminbi (USD 308 million) to support its COVID-19 response, economic revival and financial stability, the Chinese embassy said.

"China Development Bank and Sri Lankan Government have entered into an agreement of RMB 2 Billion (approx ₹ 61.5 Billion) Term Facility today (Aug 17), upon a request from Sri Lanka side to support its #COVID19 response, economic revival, financial stability and livelihood betterment," the embassy tweeted.

The latest loan is part of a USD 1.2 billion budget support in credit agreed earlier. Sri Lanka has received USD 1 billion in credit support in two tranches of USD 500 million each in April 2021 and March 2020 respectively.

The coronavirus pandemic has severely jolted the Sri Lankan economy which is dependent on its tourism sector.

Earlier in February, Sri Lanka settled a USD 400 million currency swap facility with India, to tide over financial strains.

Speculation that Beijing is trying to lure Sri Lanka into a debt trap has been outright rejected by the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa-led government.

Struggling to pay back over USD 8 billion-dollar Chinese loans and investments, the previous Sri Lankan government had handed over the majority share of the Chinese-built strategic southern port of Hambantota to a Chinese state-owned company on a 99-year lease in 2017.

Sri Lanka on Tuesday signed a loan agreement with China worth 2 billion Renminbi (USD 308 million) to support its COVID-19 response, economic revival and financial stability, the Chinese embassy said.

Sri Lanka on Tuesday signed a loan agreement with China worth 2 billion Renminbi (USD 308 million) to support its COVID-19 response, economic revival and financial stability, the Chinese embassy said. "China Development Bank and Sri Lankan Government have entered into an agreement of RMB 2 Billion (approx ₹ 61.5 Billion) Term Facility today (Aug 17), upon a request from Sri Lanka side to support its #COVID19 response, economic revival, financial stability and livelihood betterment," the embassy tweeted. The latest loan is part of a USD 1.2 billion budget support in credit agreed earlier. Sri Lanka has received USD 1 billion in credit support in two tranches of USD 500 million each in April 2021 and March 2020 respectively. The coronavirus pandemic has severely jolted the Sri Lankan economy which is dependent on its tourism sector. Earlier in February, Sri Lanka settled a USD 400 million currency swap facility with India, to tide over financial strains. Speculation that Beijing is trying to lure Sri Lanka into a debt trap has been outright rejected by the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa-led government. Struggling to pay back over USD 8 billion-dollar Chinese loans and investments, the previous Sri Lankan government had handed over the majority share of the Chinese-built strategic southern port of Hambantota to a Chinese state-owned company on a 99-year lease in 2017.

Sri Lanka signs $308 million loan agreement with China 

Taliban in Afghanistan's Balkh province are recruiting local people and collecting funds forcefully, ANI said citing officials. The Taliban are reportedly forcing the people to give them part of their income.

"The Taliban are also trying to recruit from among the local people," said the officials, reported Tolo News.

"There are only about 20 Taliban fighters inside the district building compound and the police headquarters; the rest of them have taken up positions inside the villages to collect Zakat (charity)," said Mohammad Yousuf, the acting district governor of Kaldar district.

As per Tolo News, there are about 200 Taliban fighters in the district but they are looking to recruit more.

"They have imposed taxes on the shops and bazaars and on the local people--which is beyond their capacity to pay. They also harassed the people who don`t have the capacity to pay a large amount of money," said Mohammad Hashem Mansoori, a District Governor for Shortepa district in Balkh province. Business activity has also been affected following the increased violence by the Taliban, especially in those regions where there are dry ports, such as at Hairatan.

"The people have serious concerns, the business owners are very fearful because of the businesses," said Sifatullah, a resident in Hairatan.

Security authorities however have assured the people that the Afghan security forces are fully prepared to defend the people`s lives and property, reported Tolo News.

"The morale of our forces is very high; they are fully prepared and have the strength to defend the city. Soon we will launch our offensive operations," said Khanullah Shuja, the commander of 209 Shaheen Army Corps.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban in Afghanistan's Balkh province are recruiting local people and collecting funds forcefully, ANI said citing officials. The Taliban are reportedly forcing the people to give them part of their income.

Taliban in Afghanistan's Balkh province are recruiting local people and collecting funds forcefully, ANI said citing officials. The Taliban are reportedly forcing the people to give them part of their income. "The Taliban are also trying to recruit from among the local people," said the officials, reported Tolo News. "There are only about 20 Taliban fighters inside the district building compound and the police headquarters; the rest of them have taken up positions inside the villages to collect Zakat (charity)," said Mohammad Yousuf, the acting district governor of Kaldar district. As per Tolo News, there are about 200 Taliban fighters in the district but they are looking to recruit more. "They have imposed taxes on the shops and bazaars and on the local people--which is beyond their capacity to pay. They also harassed the people who don`t have the capacity to pay a large amount of money," said Mohammad Hashem Mansoori, a District Governor for Shortepa district in Balkh province. Business activity has also been affected following the increased violence by the Taliban, especially in those regions where there are dry ports, such as at Hairatan. "The people have serious concerns, the business owners are very fearful because of the businesses," said Sifatullah, a resident in Hairatan. Security authorities however have assured the people that the Afghan security forces are fully prepared to defend the people`s lives and property, reported Tolo News. "The morale of our forces is very high; they are fully prepared and have the strength to defend the city. Soon we will launch our offensive operations," said Khanullah Shuja, the commander of 209 Shaheen Army Corps. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban demands money from civilians, tries recruiting fighters

Just a day after his daughter was abducted in Islamabad Afghanistan has recalled its envoy to Pakistan Najibullah Alikhil. All senior diplomats have been recalled. Silsela Alikhil, daughter of the ambassador was abducted for a few hours near Islamabad's Rana market.

Amrullah Saleh, First Vice President of Afghanistan said in a strongly worded statement that Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani had instructed Afghan foreign ministry to recall its envoy and all senior diplomats&nbsp;

"The abduction of Afghan ambassador's daughter &amp; her subsequent torture has wounded the psyche of our nation. Our national psyche has been tortured," he said

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President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashrafghani</a> instructed <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_afghanistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mfa_afghanistan</a> to call back our ambassador from Islamabad along with all senior diplomats. The abduction of Afgh ambassador's daughter &amp; her subsequent torture has wounded the psyche of our nation. Our national psyche has been tortured.
— Amrullah Saleh (@AmrullahSaleh2) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmrullahSaleh2/status/1416785508873740291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Silsela was assaulted in a taxi which she had taken while returning home from the market. Her hands and feet were tied when she regained consciousness. Her dupatta had tissue paper and rupees 50 note with message “your turn is next" and “ communist”.

The development has increased tensions between Kabul and Islamabad who share less-than-cordial ties. On Saturday Pakistan's Ambassador to Kabul Mansoor Ahmad Khan was summoned by Afghan foreign ministry and a "strong protest" was lodged over the issue.

In a statement after the summoning, Afghan foreign ministry said that it "explicitly called on the Pakistani government to take immediate action to identify and punish the perpetrators of this crime and ensure the full security and immunity of Afghan diplomats and their families in accordance with international conventions."

According to a report by the Pakistan Institute of Medical Science, Islamabad ambassador's daughter had swelling on various parts of her body.&nbsp;

Earlier, in a strongly worded statement, the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its "deep regret" &amp; "strongly condemns this heinous act". The Afghan foreign ministry expressed its "deep concern over the safety and security of diplomats, their families, and staff members of the Afghan political and consular missions in Pakistan."

Pakistan reacted to the development with its foreign ministry saying it had beefed up security of the Afghan envoy and his family and in a statement said, "law enforcement agencies are trying to trace and apprehend the culprits to be brought to justice."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-interior-minister-afghan-envoy-daughters-kidnapping-case-to-be-solved-in-72-hours-398849">Pakistan’s Interior Minister: Afghan envoy daughter's kidnapping case to be solved in 72 hours&nbsp;</a>

This is not the first time diplomats and their families have been a target. Indian diplomats have been in past, faced harassment in the Pakistani capital Islamabad. The harassment included apparently deliberate power outages and slowing down internet.

In response to a question on the safety of Indian diplomats in Islamabad in aftermath of the abduction of Afghan Envoy's daughter, Indian sources said, "we have been issuing alerts to our High Commission personnel on regular basis".

Just a day after his daughter was abducted in Islamabad Afghanistan has recalled its envoy to Pakistan Najibullah Alikhil. All senior diplomats have been recalled.

Just a day after his daughter was abducted in Islamabad Afghanistan has recalled its envoy to Pakistan Najibullah Alikhil. All senior diplomats have been recalled. Silsela Alikhil, daughter of the ambassador was abducted for a few hours near Islamabad's Rana market. Amrullah Saleh, First Vice President of Afghanistan said in a strongly worded statement that Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani had instructed Afghan foreign ministry to recall its envoy and all senior diplomats "The abduction of Afghan ambassador's daughter & her subsequent torture has wounded the psyche of our nation. Our national psyche has been tortured," he said President @ashrafghani instructed @mfa_afghanistan to call back our ambassador from Islamabad along with all senior diplomats. The abduction of Afgh ambassador's daughter & her subsequent torture has wounded the psyche of our nation. Our national psyche has been tortured. — Amrullah Saleh (@AmrullahSaleh2) July 18, 2021 × Silsela was assaulted in a taxi which she had taken while returning home from the market. Her hands and feet were tied when she regained consciousness. Her dupatta had tissue paper and rupees 50 note with message “your turn is next" and “ communist”. The development has increased tensions between Kabul and Islamabad who share less-than-cordial ties. On Saturday Pakistan's Ambassador to Kabul Mansoor Ahmad Khan was summoned by Afghan foreign ministry and a "strong protest" was lodged over the issue. In a statement after the summoning, Afghan foreign ministry said that it "explicitly called on the Pakistani government to take immediate action to identify and punish the perpetrators of this crime and ensure the full security and immunity of Afghan diplomats and their families in accordance with international conventions." According to a report by the Pakistan Institute of Medical Science, Islamabad ambassador's daughter had swelling on various parts of her body. Earlier, in a strongly worded statement, the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its "deep regret" & "strongly condemns this heinous act". The Afghan foreign ministry expressed its "deep concern over the safety and security of diplomats, their families, and staff members of the Afghan political and consular missions in Pakistan." Pakistan reacted to the development with its foreign ministry saying it had beefed up security of the Afghan envoy and his family and in a statement said, "law enforcement agencies are trying to trace and apprehend the culprits to be brought to justice." Also Read | Pakistan’s Interior Minister: Afghan envoy daughter's kidnapping case to be solved in 72 hours This is not the first time diplomats and their families have been a target. Indian diplomats have been in past, faced harassment in the Pakistani capital Islamabad. The harassment included apparently deliberate power outages and slowing down internet. In response to a question on the safety of Indian diplomats in Islamabad in aftermath of the abduction of Afghan Envoy's daughter, Indian sources said, "we have been issuing alerts to our High Commission personnel on regular basis".

Afghanistan recalls envoy to Pakistan over daughter abduction incident

Pakistan on Saturday allowed "up to 4,000 Afghans" into Afghanistan through its border. The strategic town across the border in Afghanistan is held by Taliban. AFP quoted a border official as saying that the move was taken on "humanitarian grounds".

Pakistan partially opened its southern crossing on Saturday. Thousands of Afghans were left stranded in the Pakistani town of Chaman after militants captured Spin Boldak from Kabul's forces on Wednesday.

"We have opened the Chaman border... allowing crowds of up to 4,000 Afghans including women and children to cross over to Afghanistan to celebrate Eid al-Adha with their families, purely on humanitarian grounds," a border official, who did not want to be named, told AFP.

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People would be allowed to cross until the evening, with the possibility the border would open again tomorrow, the official added.

Muhammad Tayyab, a local paramilitary official, said the decision was taken because of "relative calm on the other side", but said the crossing would remain closed to trade.

An AFP photographer said the gates were rushed by families as soon as they opened.

Qudratullah, 30, who lives in neighbouring Kandahar province in Afghanistan was returning after taking his father to Karachi for a heart bypass three months ago.

"I have to come back (to Pakistan) for a routine check-up of my father, but let's see if I am able to come back or not," he said.&nbsp;

Muhammad Khan, 50, who works as a labourer in Quetta, said he had been waiting at the border trying to reach Afghanistan for the Muslim holiday Eid.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taliban-denies-role-in-indian-photojournalist-danish-siddiquis-death-report-398624">Taliban denies role in Indian photojournalist Danish Siddiqui’s death: Report&nbsp;</a>

"I will definitely try to come back after Eid because there is unemployment in Afghanistan and I will not be able to get any job there," he said.

Afghan forces on Friday launched an operation to try and take back control of Spin Boldak.

Following fierce skirmishes, dozens of wounded Taliban fighters were brought across the border and were being treated at a Pakistan hospital, an AFP correspondent at the scene reported.

On Saturday, the Taliban's white flags could still be seen flying over the crossing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan on Saturday allowed "up to 4,000 Afghans" into Afghanistan through its border. The strategic town across the border in Afghanistan is held by Taliban. AFP quoted a border official as saying that the move was taken on "humanitarian grounds".

Pakistan on Saturday allowed "up to 4,000 Afghans" into Afghanistan through its border. The strategic town across the border in Afghanistan is held by Taliban. AFP quoted a border official as saying that the move was taken on "humanitarian grounds". Pakistan partially opened its southern crossing on Saturday. Thousands of Afghans were left stranded in the Pakistani town of Chaman after militants captured Spin Boldak from Kabul's forces on Wednesday. "We have opened the Chaman border... allowing crowds of up to 4,000 Afghans including women and children to cross over to Afghanistan to celebrate Eid al-Adha with their families, purely on humanitarian grounds," a border official, who did not want to be named, told AFP. × People would be allowed to cross until the evening, with the possibility the border would open again tomorrow, the official added. Muhammad Tayyab, a local paramilitary official, said the decision was taken because of "relative calm on the other side", but said the crossing would remain closed to trade. An AFP photographer said the gates were rushed by families as soon as they opened. Qudratullah, 30, who lives in neighbouring Kandahar province in Afghanistan was returning after taking his father to Karachi for a heart bypass three months ago. "I have to come back (to Pakistan) for a routine check-up of my father, but let's see if I am able to come back or not," he said. Muhammad Khan, 50, who works as a labourer in Quetta, said he had been waiting at the border trying to reach Afghanistan for the Muslim holiday Eid. Also Read: Taliban denies role in Indian photojournalist Danish Siddiqui’s death: Report "I will definitely try to come back after Eid because there is unemployment in Afghanistan and I will not be able to get any job there," he said. Afghan forces on Friday launched an operation to try and take back control of Spin Boldak. Following fierce skirmishes, dozens of wounded Taliban fighters were brought across the border and were being treated at a Pakistan hospital, an AFP correspondent at the scene reported. On Saturday, the Taliban's white flags could still be seen flying over the crossing. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan allows thousands to cross into Afghanistan through border

The US has said that regional consensus and support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process is important for enduring peace, stressing that Afghanistan's neighbours and countries in the region have a real stake in the war-torn nation's future.

The comments came on Friday, hours after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had a telephonic conversation with his counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi, amidst a rapid withdrawal of American and NATO troops from Afghanistan.

During the call, Blinken underscored the importance of continued bilateral cooperation between the US and Pakistan. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Taliban claims it controls 85% of Afghanistan

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The conversation took place in the backdrop of reports that the Taliban had made huge territorial gains in Afghanistan. Taliban militants are now thought to control about a third of the war-torn country.

"Afghanistan’s neighbours and countries in the region have a real stake in Afghanistan’s future and influence with the parties," a State Department spokesperson said.

"Regional consensus and support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process are important for an enduring peace," the spokesperson said in response to a question.

In reply to another question, the spokesperson said that security assistance to Pakistan was suspended in 2018.

"We continue to work with the Pakistan military on numerous issues and value our strong bilateral partnership," the spokesperson said.

"We do not comment or speculate on policies that may or may not be under deliberation," the official said when asked if President Joe Biden is reviewing the suspension of security assistance to Pakistan.

In May, Biden continued his predecessor Donald Trump's policy of suspending security assistance to Pakistan without any clarity if the administration will change its stance in the future.

Trump suspended all security assistance to Pakistan in January 2018, arguing that he was not satisfied with Islamabad's cooperation and role in the fight against terrorism.

Earlier, during her daily news conference, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters that the American intelligence community has never said it was inevitable for the Taliban to take over Afghanistan after the withdrawal of US forces from there.

"We have trained over 300,000. We've provided $3.9 billion in humanitarian assistance. These are brave fighters who have taken on casualties and fought off over the last several years. We want to equip and empower them, and it is now in their hands. But it is not inevitable, nor has any intelligence assessment predicted it was inevitable, "she said.

Biden on Thursday announced that America’s nearly 20-year military mission in Afghanistan will conclude on August 31.

The US military exit from Afghanistan before September 11 stems from the February 2020 agreement Washington signed with the Taliban in return for counterterrorism guarantees and pledges the group would negotiate a political settlement to the war with the Afghan government.

In April, President Biden announced that the US would withdraw all remaining troops from Afghanistan by the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks, to end a deadly conflict that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of more than 2,300 American troops.

The US has said that regional consensus and support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process is important for enduring peace, stressing that Afghanistan's neighbours and countries in the region have a real stake in the war-torn nation's future.

The US has said that regional consensus and support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process is important for enduring peace, stressing that Afghanistan's neighbours and countries in the region have a real stake in the war-torn nation's future. The comments came on Friday, hours after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had a telephonic conversation with his counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi, amidst a rapid withdrawal of American and NATO troops from Afghanistan. During the call, Blinken underscored the importance of continued bilateral cooperation between the US and Pakistan. Watch | Gravitas: Taliban claims it controls 85% of Afghanistan The conversation took place in the backdrop of reports that the Taliban had made huge territorial gains in Afghanistan. Taliban militants are now thought to control about a third of the war-torn country. "Afghanistan’s neighbours and countries in the region have a real stake in Afghanistan’s future and influence with the parties," a State Department spokesperson said. "Regional consensus and support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process are important for an enduring peace," the spokesperson said in response to a question. In reply to another question, the spokesperson said that security assistance to Pakistan was suspended in 2018. "We continue to work with the Pakistan military on numerous issues and value our strong bilateral partnership," the spokesperson said. "We do not comment or speculate on policies that may or may not be under deliberation," the official said when asked if President Joe Biden is reviewing the suspension of security assistance to Pakistan. In May, Biden continued his predecessor Donald Trump's policy of suspending security assistance to Pakistan without any clarity if the administration will change its stance in the future. Trump suspended all security assistance to Pakistan in January 2018, arguing that he was not satisfied with Islamabad's cooperation and role in the fight against terrorism. Earlier, during her daily news conference, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters that the American intelligence community has never said it was inevitable for the Taliban to take over Afghanistan after the withdrawal of US forces from there. "We have trained over 300,000. We've provided $3.9 billion in humanitarian assistance. These are brave fighters who have taken on casualties and fought off over the last several years. We want to equip and empower them, and it is now in their hands. But it is not inevitable, nor has any intelligence assessment predicted it was inevitable, "she said. Biden on Thursday announced that America’s nearly 20-year military mission in Afghanistan will conclude on August 31. The US military exit from Afghanistan before September 11 stems from the February 2020 agreement Washington signed with the Taliban in return for counterterrorism guarantees and pledges the group would negotiate a political settlement to the war with the Afghan government. In April, President Biden announced that the US would withdraw all remaining troops from Afghanistan by the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks, to end a deadly conflict that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of more than 2,300 American troops.

Afghanistan’s neighbours in the region have real stake in its future: US State Department

At least seven people were dead and 50 injured in a powerful explosion that ripped apart a three-storey building in Dhaka on Sunday, as per Bangladeshi officials. They cited a gas pipeline as the likely cause. The explosion was so forceful that windows of at least four moving buses were shattered. This injured dozens of passengers on board.

Dhaka police chief Shafiqur Rahman said at least seven people were killed in the explosion, though the fire service offered a lower death toll of three. Police and fire service officials said 50 people were injured.

"Fire service officers are at the scene. They will investigate the reason of the explosion. But primarily we believe methane gas accumulated and concentrated in the pipeline and then exploded in the ground floor," Dhaka Metropolitan Police Joint Commissioner Syed Nurul Islam told AFP.

The police chief ruled out foul play stating that Dhaka has seen several similar explosions in recent years.

Witnesses told local media the blast had reduced the building -- which houses a restaurant, an electronics shop and several other stores -- to rubble.

Police said at least two adjacent buildings were also partially damaged.&nbsp;

"At least four of the injured are in critical condition," said Samanta Lal Sen, a top doctor at the Sheikh Hasina Burn Hospital, where a dozen of the injured were taken for treatment.&nbsp;

A police bomb disposal unit rushed to the spot.

"We are analysing the nature of the explosion as the ground floor of the building was destroyed," unit leader Rahmatullah Chowdhury told The Daily Star.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least seven people were dead and 50 injured in a powerful explosion that ripped apart a three-storey building in Dhaka on Sunday, as per Bangladeshi officials.

At least seven people were dead and 50 injured in a powerful explosion that ripped apart a three-storey building in Dhaka on Sunday, as per Bangladeshi officials. They cited a gas pipeline as the likely cause. The explosion was so forceful that windows of at least four moving buses were shattered. This injured dozens of passengers on board. Dhaka police chief Shafiqur Rahman said at least seven people were killed in the explosion, though the fire service offered a lower death toll of three. Police and fire service officials said 50 people were injured. "Fire service officers are at the scene. They will investigate the reason of the explosion. But primarily we believe methane gas accumulated and concentrated in the pipeline and then exploded in the ground floor," Dhaka Metropolitan Police Joint Commissioner Syed Nurul Islam told AFP. The police chief ruled out foul play stating that Dhaka has seen several similar explosions in recent years. Witnesses told local media the blast had reduced the building -- which houses a restaurant, an electronics shop and several other stores -- to rubble. Police said at least two adjacent buildings were also partially damaged. "At least four of the injured are in critical condition," said Samanta Lal Sen, a top doctor at the Sheikh Hasina Burn Hospital, where a dozen of the injured were taken for treatment. A police bomb disposal unit rushed to the spot. "We are analysing the nature of the explosion as the ground floor of the building was destroyed," unit leader Rahmatullah Chowdhury told The Daily Star. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh: Seven dead, 50 hurt in powerful blast

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Despite G7 pledge, South Asian nations struggles for COVID-19 vaccines

After almost four days and nights of continuous firefighting by two Indian Coast Guard ships and Sri Lankan tugs, the blaze on Container Ship&nbsp;&nbsp;MV X-Press Pearl has considerably reduced.

It has been observed that the vessel’s hull is intact (indicating structural stability) and that the draught/Draft remains uncharged (indicating that the vessel has not gone lower owing to increase in weight). Aerial surveillance done on Friday by ICG Dornier aircraft does not revel any oil spill.&nbsp;

Efforts of ICG vessels Vaibhav and Vajra, assisted by Sri Lankan tugs has restricted the flames to the rear portion of the ship, while white fumes are emanating from the mid portion. The emanation of white fumes from the mid-region possibly mean the lack of available combustible material. By preventing the fire from re-spreading to the forward portion of the ship, the anchor-chain link has been prevented from parting.&nbsp;

Amid the challenges posed by rough seas and strong winds, the ICG vessels are making multiple runs along the length of the affected ship for spraying water and foam at high speeds. It is crucial to also maintain adequate distance owing to the dangers posed by burning containers or mangled parts that my fall off the burning ship.&nbsp;

Besides, 1486 containers of chemicals and other hazardous International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code(IMDG), the vessel contains 322MT of fuel. To augment the firefighting and deal with a possible oil spill, ICG Pollution response vessel Samudra Prahari is expected to reach the location on Saturday.

It was on&nbsp;May 20, Thursday that a fire first broke out on the said ship, following which it was brought under control by Sri Lankan Port authorities by the next day. However, on Tuesday morning(25th May),the fire and explosions started recurring and owing to rough weather nearly 10 containers are said to have fallen overboard.&nbsp;

After almost four days and nights of continuous firefighting by two Indian Coast Guard ships and Sri Lankan tugs, the blaze on Container Ship MV X-Press Pearl has considerably reduced.

After almost four days and nights of continuous firefighting by two Indian Coast Guard ships and Sri Lankan tugs, the blaze on Container Ship MV X-Press Pearl has considerably reduced. It has been observed that the vessel’s hull is intact (indicating structural stability) and that the draught/Draft remains uncharged (indicating that the vessel has not gone lower owing to increase in weight). Aerial surveillance done on Friday by ICG Dornier aircraft does not revel any oil spill. Efforts of ICG vessels Vaibhav and Vajra, assisted by Sri Lankan tugs has restricted the flames to the rear portion of the ship, while white fumes are emanating from the mid portion. The emanation of white fumes from the mid-region possibly mean the lack of available combustible material. By preventing the fire from re-spreading to the forward portion of the ship, the anchor-chain link has been prevented from parting. Amid the challenges posed by rough seas and strong winds, the ICG vessels are making multiple runs along the length of the affected ship for spraying water and foam at high speeds. It is crucial to also maintain adequate distance owing to the dangers posed by burning containers or mangled parts that my fall off the burning ship. Besides, 1486 containers of chemicals and other hazardous International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code(IMDG), the vessel contains 322MT of fuel. To augment the firefighting and deal with a possible oil spill, ICG Pollution response vessel Samudra Prahari is expected to reach the location on Saturday. It was on May 20, Thursday that a fire first broke out on the said ship, following which it was brought under control by Sri Lankan Port authorities by the next day. However, on Tuesday morning(25th May),the fire and explosions started recurring and owing to rough weather nearly 10 containers are said to have fallen overboard.

Colombo ship fire: Hull intact, Fire considerably reduced and no oil spill says ICG

Deadly waves of COVID-19 are sweeping across South Asia. Families are losing loved ones, & vaccines are running out. WION correspondents show you what's happening in 4 different countries.

COVID-19 in South Asia: 4 countries, 4 Ground reports

Calling the moment US soldiers killed Osama bin Laden "a moment I will never forget", US President Joe Biden on Sunday reaffirmed USA's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan. Sunday was the 10th anniversary of Osama bin Laden's killing. Biden has already said that the US will end its war in Afghanistan by September 11. In his statement on Sunday, Biden praised former US President Barack Obama for his 2011 decision to approve secret operation targetting Laden and praised special forces that eliminated him.

"We followed bin Laden to the gates of hell -- and we got him," Biden said in a statement released by the White House.&nbsp;

"We kept the promise to all those who lost loved ones on 9/11: that we would never forget those we had lost, and that the United States will never waver in our commitment to prevent another attack on our homeland."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/roaring-tanker-fire-kills-7-injures-14-in-afghanistan-capital-382083">Roaring tanker fire kills 7, injures 14 in Afghanistan capital</a>

Watching the operation remotely from a crowded White House Situation Room, Biden said, was "a moment I will never forget -- the intelligence professionals who had painstakingly tracked him down; the clarity and conviction of President Obama in making the call; the courage and skill of our team on the ground."

Now, as the US begins pulling the last of its troops from Afghanistan, Biden said: "Al Qaeda is greatly degraded there. But the United States will remain vigilant about the threat from terrorist groups that have metastasized around the world.&nbsp;

"We will continue to monitor and disrupt any threat to us that emerges from Afghanistan. And we will work to counter terrorist threats to our homeland and our interests in cooperation with allies and partners around the world."

(With inputs from agencies)

Calling the moment US soldiers killed Osama bin Laden "a moment I will never forget", US President Joe Biden on Sunday reaffirmed USA's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan.

Calling the moment US soldiers killed Osama bin Laden "a moment I will never forget", US President Joe Biden on Sunday reaffirmed USA's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan. Sunday was the 10th anniversary of Osama bin Laden's killing. Biden has already said that the US will end its war in Afghanistan by September 11. In his statement on Sunday, Biden praised former US President Barack Obama for his 2011 decision to approve secret operation targetting Laden and praised special forces that eliminated him. "We followed bin Laden to the gates of hell -- and we got him," Biden said in a statement released by the White House. "We kept the promise to all those who lost loved ones on 9/11: that we would never forget those we had lost, and that the United States will never waver in our commitment to prevent another attack on our homeland." Also Read | Roaring tanker fire kills 7, injures 14 in Afghanistan capital Watching the operation remotely from a crowded White House Situation Room, Biden said, was "a moment I will never forget -- the intelligence professionals who had painstakingly tracked him down; the clarity and conviction of President Obama in making the call; the courage and skill of our team on the ground." Now, as the US begins pulling the last of its troops from Afghanistan, Biden said: "Al Qaeda is greatly degraded there. But the United States will remain vigilant about the threat from terrorist groups that have metastasized around the world. "We will continue to monitor and disrupt any threat to us that emerges from Afghanistan. And we will work to counter terrorist threats to our homeland and our interests in cooperation with allies and partners around the world." (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden marks 10 years since Osama bin Laden's killing

Southeast Asian leaders said they had agreed on a plan with&nbsp;Myanmar's junta chief on Saturday to end the crisis in the violence-hit nation, but he did not explicitly respond to demands to halt the killing of civilian protesters.

"It's beyond our expectation," Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin told reporters after the leaders' meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that was also attended by&nbsp;Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

"We tried not to accuse his side too much because we don't care who's causing it," Muhyiddin added. "We just stressed that the violence must stop. For him, it's the other side that's causing the problems. But he agreed that violence must stop."

ASEAN leaders wanted a commitment from Min Aung Hlaing to restrain his security forces, which an activist monitoring group says have killed 745 people since a mass civil disobedience movement&nbsp;erupted to challenge his Feb. 1 coup. They also wanted the release of political prisoners.

"He did not reject what was put forward by me and many other colleagues," Muhyiddin said.

According to a statement from group chair Brunei, a consensus was reached on five points - ending violence, a constructive dialogue among all parties, a special ASEAN envoy to facilitate the dialogue, acceptance of aid and a visit by the envoy to&nbsp;Myanmar. The five-point consensus did not mention political prisoners, although the chairman's statement said the meeting "heard calls" for their release.

"He (Min Aung Hlaing) said he heard us, he would take the point in, which he considered helpful," Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told reporters.

"He was not opposed to ASEAN playing a constructive role, or an ASEAN delegation visit, or humanitarian assistance."

But Lee added the process had a long way to go, "because it is one thing to say you will cease violence and release political prisoners, it is another thing to get it done".

It was not clear why Lee referred to the release of political prisoners when this was not in the five consensus points.

There was no immediate comment from Min Aung Hlaing.

A regular nighttime news bulletin on the military-run Myawaddy TV reported his attendance of the meeting and said&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;would closely cooperate with ASEAN on various issues, including "the political transition in&nbsp;Myanmar, and the process that will be implemented in the future".

Charles Santiago, head of the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights group, called for the release of&nbsp;Myanmar's political prisoners and a timeline for an end to violence.

"ASEAN must now act swiftly and set a clear timeline for Min Aung Hlaing to deliver on ending the violence, or stand ready to hold him accountable," he said.

'RESTORE DEMOCRACY'

The ASEAN gathering was the first coordinated international effort to ease the crisis in&nbsp;Myanmar, an impoverished country that neighbours China, India and Thailand, since the coup that overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government.&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;is part of the 10-nation ASEAN, which has a policy of consensus decision-making and non-interference in the affairs of its members.

Myanmar's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), comprised of pro-democracy figures, remnants of Suu Kyi's ousted administration and representatives of armed ethnic groups, said it welcomed the consensus reached but said the junta had to be held to its promises.

"We look forward to firm action by ASEAN to follow up its decisions and to restore our democracy," said Dr. Sasa, spokesman for the NUG.

It was unusual for the leader of a military government in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;to attend an ASEAN summit - usually the country has been represented by a lower-ranked officer or a civilian.

The leaders of Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Brunei were at the meeting, along with the foreign ministers of Laos, Thailand and the Philippines.

While ASEAN's non-interference policy makes it difficult to tackle contentious issues, the body is seen by the United Nations, China and the United States as best placed to deal with the junta directly.

"We in the [@UN] Security Council eagerly await the outcome of the @ASEAN meeting on Burma, which deserves serious and immediate attention," U.S Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield tweeted.

Southeast Asian leaders said they had agreed on a plan with Myanmar's junta chief on Saturday to end the crisis in the violence-hit nation, but he did not explicitly respond to demands to halt the killing of civilian protesters.

Southeast Asian leaders said they had agreed on a plan with Myanmar's junta chief on Saturday to end the crisis in the violence-hit nation, but he did not explicitly respond to demands to halt the killing of civilian protesters. "It's beyond our expectation," Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin told reporters after the leaders' meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that was also attended by Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. "We tried not to accuse his side too much because we don't care who's causing it," Muhyiddin added. "We just stressed that the violence must stop. For him, it's the other side that's causing the problems. But he agreed that violence must stop." ASEAN leaders wanted a commitment from Min Aung Hlaing to restrain his security forces, which an activist monitoring group says have killed 745 people since a mass civil disobedience movement erupted to challenge his Feb. 1 coup. They also wanted the release of political prisoners. "He did not reject what was put forward by me and many other colleagues," Muhyiddin said. According to a statement from group chair Brunei, a consensus was reached on five points - ending violence, a constructive dialogue among all parties, a special ASEAN envoy to facilitate the dialogue, acceptance of aid and a visit by the envoy to Myanmar. The five-point consensus did not mention political prisoners, although the chairman's statement said the meeting "heard calls" for their release. "He (Min Aung Hlaing) said he heard us, he would take the point in, which he considered helpful," Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told reporters. "He was not opposed to ASEAN playing a constructive role, or an ASEAN delegation visit, or humanitarian assistance." But Lee added the process had a long way to go, "because it is one thing to say you will cease violence and release political prisoners, it is another thing to get it done". It was not clear why Lee referred to the release of political prisoners when this was not in the five consensus points. There was no immediate comment from Min Aung Hlaing. A regular nighttime news bulletin on the military-run Myawaddy TV reported his attendance of the meeting and said Myanmar would closely cooperate with ASEAN on various issues, including "the political transition in Myanmar, and the process that will be implemented in the future". Charles Santiago, head of the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights group, called for the release of Myanmar's political prisoners and a timeline for an end to violence. "ASEAN must now act swiftly and set a clear timeline for Min Aung Hlaing to deliver on ending the violence, or stand ready to hold him accountable," he said. 'RESTORE DEMOCRACY' The ASEAN gathering was the first coordinated international effort to ease the crisis in Myanmar, an impoverished country that neighbours China, India and Thailand, since the coup that overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government. Myanmar is part of the 10-nation ASEAN, which has a policy of consensus decision-making and non-interference in the affairs of its members. Myanmar's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), comprised of pro-democracy figures, remnants of Suu Kyi's ousted administration and representatives of armed ethnic groups, said it welcomed the consensus reached but said the junta had to be held to its promises. "We look forward to firm action by ASEAN to follow up its decisions and to restore our democracy," said Dr. Sasa, spokesman for the NUG. It was unusual for the leader of a military government in Myanmar to attend an ASEAN summit - usually the country has been represented by a lower-ranked officer or a civilian. The leaders of Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Brunei were at the meeting, along with the foreign ministers of Laos, Thailand and the Philippines. While ASEAN's non-interference policy makes it difficult to tackle contentious issues, the body is seen by the United Nations, China and the United States as best placed to deal with the junta directly. "We in the [@UN] Security Council eagerly await the outcome of the @ASEAN meeting on Burma, which deserves serious and immediate attention," U.S Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield tweeted.

SE Asian nations say consensus reached on ending Myanmar crisis

Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said that the country has long been ready for the US and NATO-led coalition forces` withdrawal. 
 
Ghani made the remarks during a security personnel medal-awarding ceremony held here on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. 
 
"After two years, we are fully prepared for the day and we have a comprehensive plan for their withdrawal," he said. 
 
The President added that the 350,000-member strong security forces were fully prepared to protect the country. 
 
Ghani also reiterated that the Afghan government is committed to the peace talks with the Taliban and that it is now up to the latter to act on it. 
 
US President Joe Biden on April 14 announced the unconditional withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan by September which will end the 20-year old war. 
 
Biden said that it has been 10 years since former Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden`s death, and it is time to end America`s war in the country and to bring US troops home. 
 
Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said that achieving a peace deal after the withdrawal of the US forces from Afghanistan is one of the priorities of the group but added that it will select the military option if the efforts could not get the expected outcome, TOLO News reported.

Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said that the country has long been ready for the US and NATO-led coalition forces` withdrawal. Ghani made the remarks during a security personnel medal-awarding ceremony held here on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said that the country has long been ready for the US and NATO-led coalition forces` withdrawal. Ghani made the remarks during a security personnel medal-awarding ceremony held here on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. "After two years, we are fully prepared for the day and we have a comprehensive plan for their withdrawal," he said. The President added that the 350,000-member strong security forces were fully prepared to protect the country. Ghani also reiterated that the Afghan government is committed to the peace talks with the Taliban and that it is now up to the latter to act on it. US President Joe Biden on April 14 announced the unconditional withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan by September which will end the 20-year old war. Biden said that it has been 10 years since former Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden`s death, and it is time to end America`s war in the country and to bring US troops home. Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said that achieving a peace deal after the withdrawal of the US forces from Afghanistan is one of the priorities of the group but added that it will select the military option if the efforts could not get the expected outcome, TOLO News reported.

Afghanistan ready for coalition forces' pull out: President Ghani

Bangladesh has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown for yet another week to counter the spike in coronavirus infections, an official said on Monday. 
 
"The restrictions will continue for one more week from Thursday," the government`s Chief Information Officer Surodh Kumar Sarker told reporters here, referring to a senior officials` meeting that reviewed the latest Covid-19 situation. 
 
Given the surge in new infections and deaths from the virus, the government on April 5 enforced a nine-day lockdown shutting offices, shopping malls and transport across Bangladesh, reports DPA news agency. 
 
The shutdown was then extended until Wednesday as the situation worsened. 
 
A country of more than 160 million, Bangladesh`s embattled healthcare system has carried out 5.1 million virus tests since the first cases of Covid-19 emerged in March last year. 
 
It saw the highest single-day increase in infections on April 9, with 7,462 new cases, and the highest daily death toll, 102, on Sunday. 
 
Some 781,950 coronavirus cases and 10,385 deaths have been reported so far in Bangladesh, which previously imposed a nationwide shutdown for more than two months, from March 26, 2020, until May.

Bangladesh has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown for yet another week to counter the spike in coronavirus infections, an official said on Monday. "The restrictions will continue for one more week from Thursday," the government`s Chief Information Officer Surodh Kumar Sarker told reporters here, referring to a senior officials` meeting that reviewed the latest Covid-19 situation.

Bangladesh has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown for yet another week to counter the spike in coronavirus infections, an official said on Monday. "The restrictions will continue for one more week from Thursday," the government`s Chief Information Officer Surodh Kumar Sarker told reporters here, referring to a senior officials` meeting that reviewed the latest Covid-19 situation. Given the surge in new infections and deaths from the virus, the government on April 5 enforced a nine-day lockdown shutting offices, shopping malls and transport across Bangladesh, reports DPA news agency. The shutdown was then extended until Wednesday as the situation worsened. A country of more than 160 million, Bangladesh`s embattled healthcare system has carried out 5.1 million virus tests since the first cases of Covid-19 emerged in March last year. It saw the highest single-day increase in infections on April 9, with 7,462 new cases, and the highest daily death toll, 102, on Sunday. Some 781,950 coronavirus cases and 10,385 deaths have been reported so far in Bangladesh, which previously imposed a nationwide shutdown for more than two months, from March 26, 2020, until May.

COVID-19: Bangladesh extends lockdown for another week

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying.

"We haven`t yet got any decision about a fresh lockdown. There`ll be a meeting on Monday over the current Covid-19 situation. But advice is there overextending the ongoing lockdown," the State Minister added.

Bangladesh on Sunday reported over 100 Covid-19 single-day deaths for the third consecutive day.On Sunday, another 102 deaths were logged in 24 hours. Earlier on Saturday and Friday, 101 new deaths were recorded in a single day, the highest in the country so far since the first reported death on March 18, 2020.With the updated data, the death toll in the country stands at 10,385, and the total cases at 718,950.

On April 14, the Bangladesh government enforced a fresh lockdown with harsher measures. The ongoing lockdown was imposed after a `loose` nationwide lockdown for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the spike in both coronavirus infections and fatalities.

"The decision [to extend lockdown] will be known within 1-2 days as the coronavirus infections keep spreading. If people follow health guidelines properly and stay home, then the infection rate will come down," Hossain said.

The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has recommended a 14-day fresh lockdown and the ongoing lockdown might be extended for another week based on the recommendation.Replying to a question about the extension of the ongoing lockdown, Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division Rafiqul Islam, said: "The decision in this regard will be known on Monday after an inter-ministerial meeting."

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying.

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying. "We haven`t yet got any decision about a fresh lockdown. There`ll be a meeting on Monday over the current Covid-19 situation. But advice is there overextending the ongoing lockdown," the State Minister added. Bangladesh on Sunday reported over 100 Covid-19 single-day deaths for the third consecutive day.On Sunday, another 102 deaths were logged in 24 hours. Earlier on Saturday and Friday, 101 new deaths were recorded in a single day, the highest in the country so far since the first reported death on March 18, 2020.With the updated data, the death toll in the country stands at 10,385, and the total cases at 718,950. On April 14, the Bangladesh government enforced a fresh lockdown with harsher measures. The ongoing lockdown was imposed after a `loose` nationwide lockdown for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the spike in both coronavirus infections and fatalities. "The decision [to extend lockdown] will be known within 1-2 days as the coronavirus infections keep spreading. If people follow health guidelines properly and stay home, then the infection rate will come down," Hossain said. The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has recommended a 14-day fresh lockdown and the ongoing lockdown might be extended for another week based on the recommendation.Replying to a question about the extension of the ongoing lockdown, Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division Rafiqul Islam, said: "The decision in this regard will be known on Monday after an inter-ministerial meeting."

Bangladesh likely to extend lockdown for another week as COVID-19 situation worsens

The Chinese&nbsp;government on Thursday said that currently the security situation in Afghanistan remains complicated and grave and terrorism is far from being eradicated.

Voicing concern over America's decision to withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan by September, China said that Washington should accommodate legitimate security concerns of the regional countries to prevent “terrorist forces” from taking advantage of the chaos in the war-torn country.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian also criticised Washington for linking the withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan to focus more on the threats posed by China, saying the fight against terrorism is in the common interest of all parties, including the two countries.

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"The current security situation in Afghanistan is still complex and grim and the problem of terrorism is far from being solved. Foreign troops stationed in Afghanistan should withdraw in a responsible and orderly manner to ensure a smooth transition in Afghanistan and to avoid terrorist forces from taking advantage of the chaos," Zhao Lijian said at a media briefing while responding to questions on US troops pullout plan.

"The US is the biggest external factor affecting the issue of Afghanistan... It must take full responsibility for preserving the outcomes of Afghanistan's peaceful construction and reconstruction and accommodate legitimate security concerns of the countries in the region," he said.

To a question that the US is linking its troops' withdrawal to focus on China, Mr Zhao said, "The US side links its withdrawal from Afghanistan to China's challenge."

"This reflects deep-rooted zero-sum mindset from the Cold War which is detrimental to mutual trust between the two countries and it is not conducive to cooperation and coordination on international and regional issues."

"We have to emphasise that the political solution to Afghanistan and early realisation of peace and stability in the country and the fight against terrorism are in the common interest of all parties concerned, including China and the US and are also common aspiration of the international community," he said.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki has said that the US "will begin an orderly drawdown of the remaining forces before May 1 and plan to have all US troops out of the country before the 20th anniversary of 9/11."

Later US President Joe Biden said, "It is time to end America's longest war. It is time for American troops to come home."

Mr Zhao also said China will attend the UN conference on Afghanistan scheduled to be held in Istanbul from April 20 to May 4 to find a peaceful solution to Afghanistan's civil strife.

Observers say that the US' latest plan to speed up the withdrawal of more troops from Afghanistan may have troubling consequences for China.

China, whose volatile Xinjiang province shares a border with Afghanistan, has been expressing concern over the US troops withdrawal despite its current round of tensions with Washington on a host of issues including, the US claiming genocide by China against Muslim Uygurs in Xinjiang.

China has been refuting allegations of mass detention camps and other gross human rights violations against Uygurs Muslims.

The previous Trump administration had lifted the ban on the separatist East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a Uighur terror outfit.

The ETIM was designated as a terrorist organisation by the UN's 1267 counter-terrorism committee in 2002 for its alleged association with Al Qaeda, the then Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden and the Taliban.

Despite its all-weather ties with Pakistan, which holds a strong control over the Taliban as it operates from the Pakistani territory, China's concerns stem from the reports of regrouping of hundreds of Uygur groups who worked with terror group ISIS in Syria and Afghanistan to stage attacks in Xinjiang. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government on Thursday said that currently the security situation in Afghanistan remains complicated and grave and terrorism is far from being eradicated.

The Chinese government on Thursday said that currently the security situation in Afghanistan remains complicated and grave and terrorism is far from being eradicated. Voicing concern over America's decision to withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan by September, China said that Washington should accommodate legitimate security concerns of the regional countries to prevent “terrorist forces” from taking advantage of the chaos in the war-torn country. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian also criticised Washington for linking the withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan to focus more on the threats posed by China, saying the fight against terrorism is in the common interest of all parties, including the two countries. US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday that he would withdraw all remaining US troops – about 2,500 – from Afghanistan by September 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attack in New York. × "The current security situation in Afghanistan is still complex and grim and the problem of terrorism is far from being solved. Foreign troops stationed in Afghanistan should withdraw in a responsible and orderly manner to ensure a smooth transition in Afghanistan and to avoid terrorist forces from taking advantage of the chaos," Zhao Lijian said at a media briefing while responding to questions on US troops pullout plan. "The US is the biggest external factor affecting the issue of Afghanistan... It must take full responsibility for preserving the outcomes of Afghanistan's peaceful construction and reconstruction and accommodate legitimate security concerns of the countries in the region," he said. To a question that the US is linking its troops' withdrawal to focus on China, Mr Zhao said, "The US side links its withdrawal from Afghanistan to China's challenge." "This reflects deep-rooted zero-sum mindset from the Cold War which is detrimental to mutual trust between the two countries and it is not conducive to cooperation and coordination on international and regional issues." "We have to emphasise that the political solution to Afghanistan and early realisation of peace and stability in the country and the fight against terrorism are in the common interest of all parties concerned, including China and the US and are also common aspiration of the international community," he said. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki has said that the US "will begin an orderly drawdown of the remaining forces before May 1 and plan to have all US troops out of the country before the 20th anniversary of 9/11." Later US President Joe Biden said, "It is time to end America's longest war. It is time for American troops to come home." Mr Zhao also said China will attend the UN conference on Afghanistan scheduled to be held in Istanbul from April 20 to May 4 to find a peaceful solution to Afghanistan's civil strife. Observers say that the US' latest plan to speed up the withdrawal of more troops from Afghanistan may have troubling consequences for China. China, whose volatile Xinjiang province shares a border with Afghanistan, has been expressing concern over the US troops withdrawal despite its current round of tensions with Washington on a host of issues including, the US claiming genocide by China against Muslim Uygurs in Xinjiang. China has been refuting allegations of mass detention camps and other gross human rights violations against Uygurs Muslims. The previous Trump administration had lifted the ban on the separatist East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a Uighur terror outfit. The ETIM was designated as a terrorist organisation by the UN's 1267 counter-terrorism committee in 2002 for its alleged association with Al Qaeda, the then Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden and the Taliban. Despite its all-weather ties with Pakistan, which holds a strong control over the Taliban as it operates from the Pakistani territory, China's concerns stem from the reports of regrouping of hundreds of Uygur groups who worked with terror group ISIS in Syria and Afghanistan to stage attacks in Xinjiang. (With inputs from agencies)

'Terrorism far from over', says China about US troop pullout plan from Afghanistan

Coronavirus infections in the South Asia sub-region surpassed the grim milestone of 15 million on Saturday, a Reuters tally shows, led by India`s record daily infections and vaccine shortages.

South Asia - India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka - accounts for 11% of global cases and almost 6% of deaths. The region accounts for 23% of the world`s population of 7.59 billion people.

India, the country with the third-highest coronavirus total, accounts for over 84% of South Asia`s cases and deaths.

The world`s second-most populous country reported 145,384 new cases on Saturday, the fastest climb in the world and the country`s fifth record this week, as well as 794 deaths. The government blames the current spike on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks.

India is accounting for one in every six reported infections in its current surge.

While ramping up its vaccination drive, inoculating about 4 million people a day, several states said they were rationing doses as the federal government was not refilling stocks in time.

India`s western neighbour Pakistan, the second-hardest hit in the region, is in its third wave, recording more than 700,000 cases and 15,000 related deaths.

It has seen a sharp rise in cases in the past 10 days. Officials say there are now more people in intensive care than at any other point during the pandemic.

Bangladesh, India`s eastern neighbour, is reporting about 7,000 cases a day, totalling some 678,937 cases. 
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given Bangladesh 1.2 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

At least 94.1 million people had received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose in southern Asia by Friday, according to figures from Our World in Data.

Coronavirus infections in the South Asia sub-region surpassed the grim milestone of 15 million on Saturday, a Reuters tally shows, led by India`s record daily infections and vaccine shortages.

Coronavirus infections in the South Asia sub-region surpassed the grim milestone of 15 million on Saturday, a Reuters tally shows, led by India`s record daily infections and vaccine shortages. South Asia - India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka - accounts for 11% of global cases and almost 6% of deaths. The region accounts for 23% of the world`s population of 7.59 billion people. India, the country with the third-highest coronavirus total, accounts for over 84% of South Asia`s cases and deaths. The world`s second-most populous country reported 145,384 new cases on Saturday, the fastest climb in the world and the country`s fifth record this week, as well as 794 deaths. The government blames the current spike on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks. India is accounting for one in every six reported infections in its current surge. While ramping up its vaccination drive, inoculating about 4 million people a day, several states said they were rationing doses as the federal government was not refilling stocks in time. India`s western neighbour Pakistan, the second-hardest hit in the region, is in its third wave, recording more than 700,000 cases and 15,000 related deaths. It has seen a sharp rise in cases in the past 10 days. Officials say there are now more people in intensive care than at any other point during the pandemic. Bangladesh, India`s eastern neighbour, is reporting about 7,000 cases a day, totalling some 678,937 cases. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given Bangladesh 1.2 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. At least 94.1 million people had received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose in southern Asia by Friday, according to figures from Our World in Data.

South Asia surpasses grim milestone of 15 million COVID-19 cases: Reuters tally

Nepal is witnessing worst forest fires in years. Five people have died so far trying to put out the fires that have been raging since January as per an official quoted by Reuters. The fire has given rise to a lot of smoke that has wafted across that mountain and creating air quality issues as it settles around capital Kathmandu.

A senior official of Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said that wildfires were burning in at least 60 places across 22 of Nepal's 77 administrative districts.&nbsp;

Details on losses from the fires are still being collected, Sharma said. This has been the worst fire season by number since 2012, when the government started keeping records.

"Forest fires are the main reason for the rising air pollution in Kathmandu and many other places," Sharma told Reuters.

"Wildfires could hit the peak later this month if the ongoing dry spell continued," he said.

Nepal ordered closure of schools for four days at the end of March after air pollution climbed to hazardous levels

Forest fires often erupt in Nepal during the January-May dry season, when villagers burn dry leaves in the woodlands to prompt fresh grass growth for their cattle.

Sharma said the number of fires this year were 15 times more than those occurring in 2020. He didn't immediately have a reason for the increase.

The air quality index (AQI) in Kathmandu was at an unhealthy level of 174 on Friday, according to data published on iqair.com, a site that monitors air quality. An AQI level below 50 is considered good.

(With Reuters inputs)

Nepal is witnessing worst forest fires in years. Five people have died so far trying to put out the fires that have been raging since January as per an official quoted by Reuters.

Nepal is witnessing worst forest fires in years. Five people have died so far trying to put out the fires that have been raging since January as per an official quoted by Reuters. The fire has given rise to a lot of smoke that has wafted across that mountain and creating air quality issues as it settles around capital Kathmandu. A senior official of Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said that wildfires were burning in at least 60 places across 22 of Nepal's 77 administrative districts. Details on losses from the fires are still being collected, Sharma said. This has been the worst fire season by number since 2012, when the government started keeping records. "Forest fires are the main reason for the rising air pollution in Kathmandu and many other places," Sharma told Reuters. "Wildfires could hit the peak later this month if the ongoing dry spell continued," he said. Nepal ordered closure of schools for four days at the end of March after air pollution climbed to hazardous levels Forest fires often erupt in Nepal during the January-May dry season, when villagers burn dry leaves in the woodlands to prompt fresh grass growth for their cattle. Sharma said the number of fires this year were 15 times more than those occurring in 2020. He didn't immediately have a reason for the increase. The air quality index (AQI) in Kathmandu was at an unhealthy level of 174 on Friday, according to data published on iqair.com, a site that monitors air quality. An AQI level below 50 is considered good. (With Reuters inputs)

Nepal fights worst forest fires in years

From Pakistan to India and Bangladesh, a deadly second wave is sweeping through South Asia. All countries are reporting a record spike in cases. India reported more than 100,000 new infections in a day, becoming only the second country in the world after the United States to hit that mark.&nbsp;

A grim milestone in India's fight against the coronavirus. On Monday, more than 100,000 cases of new infections were found, the highest single day figures for India since the pandemic began.&nbsp;

At the beginning of the new year, India was breathing easy, but now it seems like the virus has come back with a vengeance even with vaccination.&nbsp;

Hospital beds are filling up fast and the restrictions are returning. The state of Maharashtra has accounted for nearly 60 per cent of all the new cases in the last two weeks. Reports say eight out of 10 worst affected districts are in Maharashtra. The state govt has announced a night and weekend curfew. Public spaces like parks, shopping malls and cinemas have been closed again.&nbsp;

India's neighbourhood is battling a surge too. Bangladesh has decided to impose a week-long lockdown after recording more than 7,000 new cases on Sunday. This is the highest daily count for Bangladesh. Only utility and emergency services will run for the next seven days. Factories can remain open but they will have to follow strict hygiene rules.&nbsp;

The second wave has swept Pakistan too. On Saturday, the country reported more than 5,000 cases.&nbsp; 
Islamabad says this surge is worse than last year's wave. Pakistan has also become the first country to allow the commercial sale of vaccines. Russian made shot Sputnik V is now available in the open market. It has been priced at 12,000 Pakistani rupees or 80 dollars. A cost price that may keep the life- saving jabs out of the hands of the poor, who make up almost one fourth of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Beyond South Asia, Europe is struggling with a third wave of the pandemic. Many countries are reimposing lockdowns and restrictions. Last week, France announced its third national lockdown. Thousands of cops were seen on the streets of Paris on Monday, asking people to wear masks.

Those who broke the rules were fined on the spot.&nbsp;

In contrast is the United Kingdom, which is gradually opening up. New coronavirus cases have reduced dramatically in the UK, thanks to its vaccination programme.&nbsp;

After inoculating more than 47 per cent of its population with at least one dose, new infections are now down to just six per cent of the peak, that was reported in January. That's when the so-called UK strain had led to a big rise in cases.&nbsp;

Three months on, the British government is lifting lockdown restrictions. People can now meet outside and outdoor sports facilities have reopened. For the rest of the world, the writing is on the wall. It is critical to vaccinate large sections of the population to beat the surge, and it must be done sooner, rather than later. 
&nbsp;

From Pakistan to India and Bangladesh, a deadly second wave is sweeping through South Asia. All countries are reporting a record spike in cases. India reported more than 100,000 new infections in a day, becoming only the second country in the world after the United States to hit that mark.

From Pakistan to India and Bangladesh, a deadly second wave is sweeping through South Asia. All countries are reporting a record spike in cases. India reported more than 100,000 new infections in a day, becoming only the second country in the world after the United States to hit that mark. A grim milestone in India's fight against the coronavirus. On Monday, more than 100,000 cases of new infections were found, the highest single day figures for India since the pandemic began. At the beginning of the new year, India was breathing easy, but now it seems like the virus has come back with a vengeance even with vaccination. Hospital beds are filling up fast and the restrictions are returning. The state of Maharashtra has accounted for nearly 60 per cent of all the new cases in the last two weeks. Reports say eight out of 10 worst affected districts are in Maharashtra. The state govt has announced a night and weekend curfew. Public spaces like parks, shopping malls and cinemas have been closed again. India's neighbourhood is battling a surge too. Bangladesh has decided to impose a week-long lockdown after recording more than 7,000 new cases on Sunday. This is the highest daily count for Bangladesh. Only utility and emergency services will run for the next seven days. Factories can remain open but they will have to follow strict hygiene rules. The second wave has swept Pakistan too. On Saturday, the country reported more than 5,000 cases. Islamabad says this surge is worse than last year's wave. Pakistan has also become the first country to allow the commercial sale of vaccines. Russian made shot Sputnik V is now available in the open market. It has been priced at 12,000 Pakistani rupees or 80 dollars. A cost price that may keep the life- saving jabs out of the hands of the poor, who make up almost one fourth of Pakistan. Beyond South Asia, Europe is struggling with a third wave of the pandemic. Many countries are reimposing lockdowns and restrictions. Last week, France announced its third national lockdown. Thousands of cops were seen on the streets of Paris on Monday, asking people to wear masks. Those who broke the rules were fined on the spot. In contrast is the United Kingdom, which is gradually opening up. New coronavirus cases have reduced dramatically in the UK, thanks to its vaccination programme. After inoculating more than 47 per cent of its population with at least one dose, new infections are now down to just six per cent of the peak, that was reported in January. That's when the so-called UK strain had led to a big rise in cases. Three months on, the British government is lifting lockdown restrictions. People can now meet outside and outdoor sports facilities have reopened. For the rest of the world, the writing is on the wall. It is critical to vaccinate large sections of the population to beat the surge, and it must be done sooner, rather than later.

Deadly wave strikes South Asia hard as record coronavirus cases reported

At least eight people, including three women, were crushed under trees in Gaibandha district of Bangladesh as a violent thunderstorm called nor`westers packed with gale-speed wind, and rain thrashed at least 13 districts in northern, central, and western parts of the country on Sunday.

The eight people died in separate incidents in Fulchhari, Palashbari, and Sundarganj Upazilas of the district just before sunset reported local media. Among the deceased, five were identified as Shimuli Begum, 25, Abdul Gaffar, 42, Hafiz Uddin, 44, Jahanara Begum, 50, and Moyna Begum 60.&nbsp;

They were all from Gaibandha."A violent wind rose all of a sudden uprooting trees damaging houses, crops and claiming lives of people," Gaibandha`s deputy commissioner Abdul Matin was quoted by local media.&nbsp;

The DC confirmed the death of at least eight people in his district. A four-year-old girl, Toa Moni, and a 35-year-old rickshaw puller, Farid Uddin, were also injured after being hit by a brick during the nor`westers that swept parts of the capital Dhaka during sunset and afterwards, said sources at Dhaka Medical College.

Farid was having a snack when a wall collapsed on him near DMC while a brick fell on Toa Moni from the rooftop of her house while she was entering it.The nor`westers left bookstalls at Amar Ekushey Book Fair in a complete mess, as reported by local news.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said that "norwesters swept the districts of Rajshahi, Natore, Pabna, Sirajganj, Bogura, Tangail, Mymensingh, Meherpur, Kushtia, Rajbari, Faridpur, and Jashore between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm," the BMD said.

"There were reports of hailstorms and Dhaka experienced it only for few moments around 6:30 pm," said meteorologist AKM Nazmul Haque.

In Dhaka, the nor`westers brought wind up to 64 kilometres per hour, said Nazmul. New Age correspondent in Manikganj said that inclement weather caused the suspension of ferry and launch services between the Paturia and the Daulatdia and the Aricha and the Kazi ferry terminals for nearly two hours from 5:45 pm.

Apart from momentary heavy winds that destroyed properties, the nor`westers also brought rains, a relief to the people who had been smarting under the scorching heat for about a month that offered little rains.

The BMD recorded the country`s highest daily maximum temperature of 38.5°C at Rangamati and Sitakunda with a mild cold wave sweeping over the regions of Dhaka, Tangail, Sandwip, Feni, Rajshahi, Pabna, Khulna, and Kushtia and a moderate heatwave over Rangamati and Sitakunda.

The BMD predicted the heatwave to continue with the day`s maximum and minimum temperatures remaining unchanged through Monday. The BMD also predicted rain and thundershowers at one or two places in all eight divisions through Monday.

At least eight people, including three women, were crushed under trees in Gaibandha district of Bangladesh as a violent thunderstorm called nor`westers packed with gale-speed wind, and rain thrashed at least 13 districts in northern, central, and western parts of the country on Sunday.

At least eight people, including three women, were crushed under trees in Gaibandha district of Bangladesh as a violent thunderstorm called nor`westers packed with gale-speed wind, and rain thrashed at least 13 districts in northern, central, and western parts of the country on Sunday. The eight people died in separate incidents in Fulchhari, Palashbari, and Sundarganj Upazilas of the district just before sunset reported local media. Among the deceased, five were identified as Shimuli Begum, 25, Abdul Gaffar, 42, Hafiz Uddin, 44, Jahanara Begum, 50, and Moyna Begum 60. They were all from Gaibandha."A violent wind rose all of a sudden uprooting trees damaging houses, crops and claiming lives of people," Gaibandha`s deputy commissioner Abdul Matin was quoted by local media. The DC confirmed the death of at least eight people in his district. A four-year-old girl, Toa Moni, and a 35-year-old rickshaw puller, Farid Uddin, were also injured after being hit by a brick during the nor`westers that swept parts of the capital Dhaka during sunset and afterwards, said sources at Dhaka Medical College. Farid was having a snack when a wall collapsed on him near DMC while a brick fell on Toa Moni from the rooftop of her house while she was entering it.The nor`westers left bookstalls at Amar Ekushey Book Fair in a complete mess, as reported by local news. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said that "norwesters swept the districts of Rajshahi, Natore, Pabna, Sirajganj, Bogura, Tangail, Mymensingh, Meherpur, Kushtia, Rajbari, Faridpur, and Jashore between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm," the BMD said. "There were reports of hailstorms and Dhaka experienced it only for few moments around 6:30 pm," said meteorologist AKM Nazmul Haque. In Dhaka, the nor`westers brought wind up to 64 kilometres per hour, said Nazmul. New Age correspondent in Manikganj said that inclement weather caused the suspension of ferry and launch services between the Paturia and the Daulatdia and the Aricha and the Kazi ferry terminals for nearly two hours from 5:45 pm. Apart from momentary heavy winds that destroyed properties, the nor`westers also brought rains, a relief to the people who had been smarting under the scorching heat for about a month that offered little rains. The BMD recorded the country`s highest daily maximum temperature of 38.5°C at Rangamati and Sitakunda with a mild cold wave sweeping over the regions of Dhaka, Tangail, Sandwip, Feni, Rajshahi, Pabna, Khulna, and Kushtia and a moderate heatwave over Rangamati and Sitakunda. The BMD predicted the heatwave to continue with the day`s maximum and minimum temperatures remaining unchanged through Monday. The BMD also predicted rain and thundershowers at one or two places in all eight divisions through Monday.

8 killed in violent thunderstorms in Bangladesh

Pakistan has performed poorly concerning legal protections for the right to freedom of expression of its citizens during 2020, according to a new assessment report published by Media Matters for Democracy.

According to The News International, the Pakistan Freedom of Expression Report 2020 was launched through a webinar on Wednesday. 
 
Speaking at the report launch, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Pakistan, Androulla Kaminara, said: "Today`s report provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of freedom of expression in Pakistan and highlights some concerning trends. Freedom of Expression is enshrined in the European Charter of Fundamental Rights. It is also one of the important aspects of Pakistan`s GSP plus commitment to uphold the international Human Rights Conventions and a key priority in the Strategic Engagement Plan between EU and Pakistan."

The ambassador added: "As this report confirms, the situation of journalists and documentation of threats they face through attacks, intimidation and harassment is particularly concerning. Disinformation is another area of concern, and one, which the European Union is working to address both at home and abroad. Misleading or false information can put lives in danger. It is crucial to resolutely counter disinformation with transparent, timely and fact-based communication and thus reinforce the resilience of societies.

"The News International reported that Pakistan scored low on all six dimensions to provide an overall score of only 30 points out of a total of 100 points on the assessment index. This cumulative score fell in the range of "poor" protections for freedom of expression in the country.

The report found that during the year 2020 Pakistan`s media and Internet regulatory authorities continued to exert arbitrary legal and regulatory restrictions on speech and online content, by ordering bans, suspensions, and advisories against social media apps, entertainment content, and news discussions of social and political issues. 
According to the study, journalists remained vulnerable to physical, legal, and digital threats in the absence of long-awaited legislation on journalists` safety.

At least eight individuals connected with the media were killed, at least 36 journalists were attacked in the line of duty, 10 were arrested, and as many as 23 instances of arbitrary detentions in connection with news reporting and online expression were recorded across Pakistan during the year, as per the report. 
It also noted that women journalists were especially targeted with coordinated online attacks as they reported on political issues and the government`s pandemic response.

Online space for dissent and freedom of expression has shrunk in Pakistan, while hate speech and digital surveillance has increased, informed a press statement from the Freedom Network group in October.

Pakistan has for several years continued a poor track record on press freedom. The 2020 world press freedom index compiled by Reporters without Borders has reported that Pakistan slipped six spots since 2017 to 145th place out of 180 countries.

The New York Times reported that in the last five years, as many as 11 journalists have been killed in Pakistan, seven of them since Imran Khan became the Prime Minister.

Pakistan has performed poorly concerning legal protections for the right to freedom of expression of its citizens during 2020, according to a new assessment report published by Media Matters for Democracy.

Pakistan has performed poorly concerning legal protections for the right to freedom of expression of its citizens during 2020, according to a new assessment report published by Media Matters for Democracy. According to The News International, the Pakistan Freedom of Expression Report 2020 was launched through a webinar on Wednesday. Speaking at the report launch, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Pakistan, Androulla Kaminara, said: "Today`s report provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of freedom of expression in Pakistan and highlights some concerning trends. Freedom of Expression is enshrined in the European Charter of Fundamental Rights. It is also one of the important aspects of Pakistan`s GSP plus commitment to uphold the international Human Rights Conventions and a key priority in the Strategic Engagement Plan between EU and Pakistan." The ambassador added: "As this report confirms, the situation of journalists and documentation of threats they face through attacks, intimidation and harassment is particularly concerning. Disinformation is another area of concern, and one, which the European Union is working to address both at home and abroad. Misleading or false information can put lives in danger. It is crucial to resolutely counter disinformation with transparent, timely and fact-based communication and thus reinforce the resilience of societies. "The News International reported that Pakistan scored low on all six dimensions to provide an overall score of only 30 points out of a total of 100 points on the assessment index. This cumulative score fell in the range of "poor" protections for freedom of expression in the country. The report found that during the year 2020 Pakistan`s media and Internet regulatory authorities continued to exert arbitrary legal and regulatory restrictions on speech and online content, by ordering bans, suspensions, and advisories against social media apps, entertainment content, and news discussions of social and political issues. According to the study, journalists remained vulnerable to physical, legal, and digital threats in the absence of long-awaited legislation on journalists` safety. At least eight individuals connected with the media were killed, at least 36 journalists were attacked in the line of duty, 10 were arrested, and as many as 23 instances of arbitrary detentions in connection with news reporting and online expression were recorded across Pakistan during the year, as per the report. It also noted that women journalists were especially targeted with coordinated online attacks as they reported on political issues and the government`s pandemic response. Online space for dissent and freedom of expression has shrunk in Pakistan, while hate speech and digital surveillance has increased, informed a press statement from the Freedom Network group in October. Pakistan has for several years continued a poor track record on press freedom. The 2020 world press freedom index compiled by Reporters without Borders has reported that Pakistan slipped six spots since 2017 to 145th place out of 180 countries. The New York Times reported that in the last five years, as many as 11 journalists have been killed in Pakistan, seven of them since Imran Khan became the Prime Minister.

Pakistan placed in 'poor' category in freedom of expression: Report

Protests erupted in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday as thousands of people demanded government probe into deaths of four youngsters who they alleged were tortured and killed by security forces. The protesters tried to march on the city of Bannu and broke through police blockade.

Police fired tear gas to prevent protesters from entering Bannu.

The protesters were carrying the bodies of the four young men, aged between 15 and 20, found in a shallow grave on March 21 in the town of Jani Khel, outside Bannu.

"The government didn’t pay any attention to us and left us alone to mourn the slain boys," Haji Mohammad Wali, one of the protesters, told Reuters by phone.

Relatives of the dead, alleging they died during interrogation by security forces, held a sit-in in Jani Khel for nearly a week, refusing to bury the bodies until an investigation was opened against an army officer they said was responsible.

A Pakistani military spokesman declined to comment about the incident on Sunday, and the military has not commented publicly on the case.

The central government has not commented on the case.

(With Reuters inputs)

Protests erupted in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday as thousands of people demanded government probe into deaths of four youngsters who they alleged were tortured and killed by security forces.

Protests erupted in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday as thousands of people demanded government probe into deaths of four youngsters who they alleged were tortured and killed by security forces. The protesters tried to march on the city of Bannu and broke through police blockade. Police fired tear gas to prevent protesters from entering Bannu. The protesters were carrying the bodies of the four young men, aged between 15 and 20, found in a shallow grave on March 21 in the town of Jani Khel, outside Bannu. "The government didn’t pay any attention to us and left us alone to mourn the slain boys," Haji Mohammad Wali, one of the protesters, told Reuters by phone. Relatives of the dead, alleging they died during interrogation by security forces, held a sit-in in Jani Khel for nearly a week, refusing to bury the bodies until an investigation was opened against an army officer they said was responsible. A Pakistani military spokesman declined to comment about the incident on Sunday, and the military has not commented publicly on the case. The central government has not commented on the case. (With Reuters inputs)

Pakistan: Thousands protest alleged killing of youngsters by military

A plan to build a 'passageway' to South Asia through Tibet has been included in China's 14th five-year-plan, reported the state-run media. Xinhua said that Tibet "will be supported" to build an important passageway" opening to South Asia.

Beijing plans passage to South Asia through Nepal and Tibet

A plan to build a 'passageway' to South Asia through Tibet has been included in China's 14th five-year-plan, reported the state-run media. Xinhua said that Tibet "will be supported" to build än important passageway" opening to South Asia. Concrete plan about this project is not available and it is not yet clear where the "opening" of this passageway would be.

On Friday, Beijing unveiled its next five-year plan, pledging to lift annual research and development spending by more than 7% until 2025, highlighting a commitment to become self-sufficient as the country clashes with the United States and other countries over technology policy.

"We owe our achievements last year to the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core," Li said in an hour-long speech to over 5,000 delegates gathered in the Great Hall of the People, all of them inoculated against COVID-19 with a vaccine made by China's Sinopharm.

However, consumer spending remains constrained, investment growth lacks sustainability, and "the foundation for achieving our country's economic recovery needs to be further consolidated," he said in a speech that mentioned Xi 13 times.

Li set a growth target of more than 6% this year for the world's second-largest economy, seen to be easily achievable, defying expectations that China would refrain from setting a goal given global uncertainty caused by the pandemic.

China grew by 2.3% last year, its weakest in 44 years, but was still the only major economy to expand as it largely vanquished the domestic spread of the novel coronavirus that first emerged in the country in late 2019.

During Friday's parliamentary session, Beijing proposed legislation that would tighten its increasingly authoritarian grip on Hong Kong by making changes to the electoral committee that chooses the city's leader, giving it new power to nominate legislative candidates.

(With agency inputs)

A plan to build a 'passageway' to South Asia through Tibet has been included in China's 14th five-year-plan, reported the state-run media. Xinhua said that Tibet "will be supported" to build än important passageway" opening to South Asia.

A plan to build a 'passageway' to South Asia through Tibet has been included in China's 14th five-year-plan, reported the state-run media. Xinhua said that Tibet "will be supported" to build än important passageway" opening to South Asia. Concrete plan about this project is not available and it is not yet clear where the "opening" of this passageway would be. On Friday, Beijing unveiled its next five-year plan, pledging to lift annual research and development spending by more than 7% until 2025, highlighting a commitment to become self-sufficient as the country clashes with the United States and other countries over technology policy. "We owe our achievements last year to the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core," Li said in an hour-long speech to over 5,000 delegates gathered in the Great Hall of the People, all of them inoculated against COVID-19 with a vaccine made by China's Sinopharm. However, consumer spending remains constrained, investment growth lacks sustainability, and "the foundation for achieving our country's economic recovery needs to be further consolidated," he said in a speech that mentioned Xi 13 times. Li set a growth target of more than 6% this year for the world's second-largest economy, seen to be easily achievable, defying expectations that China would refrain from setting a goal given global uncertainty caused by the pandemic. China grew by 2.3% last year, its weakest in 44 years, but was still the only major economy to expand as it largely vanquished the domestic spread of the novel coronavirus that first emerged in the country in late 2019. During Friday's parliamentary session, Beijing proposed legislation that would tighten its increasingly authoritarian grip on Hong Kong by making changes to the electoral committee that chooses the city's leader, giving it new power to nominate legislative candidates. (With agency inputs)

China to build 'passageway' to South Asia through Tibet

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty". &nbsp;He said that authorisation for defence sales of US 20 billion has already been made.

"As of this year, the united states has authorized over USD 20 billion in defence sales to India. It's these offers of advanced us defence platforms that demonstrate our commitment to India's security and sovereignty," state department spokesperson ned price told reporters at his daily news conference.

"It demonstrates our commitment to that global, comprehensive, strategic partnership," he said.

The US also spoke about 5G network being a priority but also expressed concern about the dangers of installing networks with equipment that can be manipulated or even controlled by China.

The State Department expressed satisfaction at the return of economic and political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We welcome steps to return the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to full economic and political normalcy consistent with India`s democratic values," said US State Department spokesperson Ned Price.

"We continue to follow developments in Jammu and Kashmir closely," he added. He said that the United States policy towards Jammu and Kashmir has not changed," he said.

(With ANI inputs)

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty".

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty". He said that authorisation for defence sales of US 20 billion has already been made. "As of this year, the united states has authorized over USD 20 billion in defence sales to India. It's these offers of advanced us defence platforms that demonstrate our commitment to India's security and sovereignty," state department spokesperson ned price told reporters at his daily news conference. "It demonstrates our commitment to that global, comprehensive, strategic partnership," he said. The US also spoke about 5G network being a priority but also expressed concern about the dangers of installing networks with equipment that can be manipulated or even controlled by China. The State Department expressed satisfaction at the return of economic and political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "We welcome steps to return the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to full economic and political normalcy consistent with India`s democratic values," said US State Department spokesperson Ned Price. "We continue to follow developments in Jammu and Kashmir closely," he added. He said that the United States policy towards Jammu and Kashmir has not changed," he said. (With ANI inputs)

US talks of its 'commitment to India's security and sovereignty'

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees. Ahmed said that it was "necessary to test the tear gas as it had been unused for a long time" as per Pakistani news outlet Dawn. He has also been quoted as saying that "only a little was tested, not a lot"

The government employees were protesting as they demanded salary hike. Ahmed said that "real problem" was not the tear gas shelling but the pay raise that "amounts to billions of rupees in this time of inflation".

Sheikh Rashid Ahmed made these remarks as he addressed a ceremony in Rawalpindi.

His remarks have naturally have been received as being absolutely insensitive and he is receiving a lot of flak from opposition leaders and public alike.

"In any other country, a statement like this would mean immediate firing of the minister and an apology from the government," said PML-N leader Mohammad Zubair.

"To the fascist, douchebag interior minister Sheikh Rasheed, people suffocating to death is a joke," tweeted filmmaker Haroon Riaz

Earlier, the federal ministers, including Rasheed, have said the government will fulfil demands of the protestors. However, the protesters have reiterated that the government will have to issue a notification confirming the increase in their salaries. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz have backed the government employees protest.

In a tweet, Maryam had demanded the government to stop the "merciless torture" of the government employees."For God`s sake, stop this merciless torture...Do not make the innocent government employees suffer from tear gas, shelling and baton-charging. They are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights," she added.

(With ANI inputs)

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees.

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees. Ahmed said that it was "necessary to test the tear gas as it had been unused for a long time" as per Pakistani news outlet Dawn. He has also been quoted as saying that "only a little was tested, not a lot" The government employees were protesting as they demanded salary hike. Ahmed said that "real problem" was not the tear gas shelling but the pay raise that "amounts to billions of rupees in this time of inflation". Sheikh Rashid Ahmed made these remarks as he addressed a ceremony in Rawalpindi. His remarks have naturally have been received as being absolutely insensitive and he is receiving a lot of flak from opposition leaders and public alike. "In any other country, a statement like this would mean immediate firing of the minister and an apology from the government," said PML-N leader Mohammad Zubair. "To the fascist, douchebag interior minister Sheikh Rasheed, people suffocating to death is a joke," tweeted filmmaker Haroon Riaz Earlier, the federal ministers, including Rasheed, have said the government will fulfil demands of the protestors. However, the protesters have reiterated that the government will have to issue a notification confirming the increase in their salaries. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz have backed the government employees protest. In a tweet, Maryam had demanded the government to stop the "merciless torture" of the government employees."For God`s sake, stop this merciless torture...Do not make the innocent government employees suffer from tear gas, shelling and baton-charging. They are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights," she added. (With ANI inputs)

Fired tear gas on employees to test it as it had been unused for a long time: Pakistan Minister

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