Tens of thousands of Afghan refugees who fled the Taliban in 2021 scrambled to leave Pakistan on Tuesday, hours before the end of a deadline after which Islamabad plans to arrest or deport undocumented immigrants, a move that has drawn international criticism and fears of a humanitarian crisis.

Afghans remain stranded at Afghan-Pak border, Pakistan issues Nov 1 as deadline for them to leave

Over 100,000 Afghans gone home as deadline to leave Pakistan expires: Official

<p>As the clock ticks to the November 1st deadline set for undocumented migrants to leave Pakistan, more than 10,000 Afghans rushed to the borders on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Starting Wednesday, the Pakistani government will start arresting undocumented Afghans and taking them to new holding centres, where they will be processed before being forcibly made to return to Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's announcement</strong></h2>

<p>On October 4th, Pakistan announced that starting Wednesday (Nov 1st) it will expel undocumented migrants who do not leave on their own.</p>

<p>There are already reports of harassment and extortion from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the majority of Afghan migrants live. However, police as per AFP, said they are yet to begin arrests.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-slammed-by-taliban-over-its-plan-to-expel-over-a-million-afghan-refugees-642620">Taliban slam Pakistan over its plan to expel over a million Afghan refugees</a></strong></p>

<p>The expulsion threat as per reports came after suicide bombings this year, which the South Asian nation's government said involved Afghans. However, Pakistan did not provide any evidence for the allegation. Islamabad has also blamed Afghan citizens for smuggling and other militant attacks in the nation.</p>

<p>As per the Taliban's data, between Sept 23 to Oct 22, some 60,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recent daily returnee figures to Afghanistan, as per a Reuters report quoting Taliban refugee ministry spokesman Abdul Mutaleb Haqqani, are three times higher than normal.</p>

<p>"Thousands of Afghan refugees are waiting for their turn in vehicles, lorries, and trucks, and the number continues to grow," said Irshad Mohmand, a senior government official at the Torkham border, while talking to AFP.</p>

<p>"More than 10,000 refugees have gathered since morning."</p>

<h2>Harassment or not</h2>

<p>Afghanistan's Taliban government, as per AFP, has said that Pakistan's policy amounts to "harassment".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-40-population-slips-below-poverty-line-world-bank-sounds-alarm-bell-639087">Pakistan: 40% population slips below poverty line, World Bank sounds alarm bell</a></strong></p>

<p>However, in a statement, Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that the expulsion plan was compliant with international norms and principles.</p>

<p>"Our record of the last forty years in hosting millions of our Afghan brothers and sisters speaks for itself," said Baloch.</p>

<h2><strong>Leaving 'home'</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to Reuters, an undocumented Pakistan-born Afghan national who is married to a Pakistani woman said: "We'd live here our whole life if they didn't send us back."</p>

<p>Over four million Afghans have made Pakistan their home, and about 1.7 million of them, according to Islamabad, are undocumented. While many of them sought refuge in Pakistan after the 2021 Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, a large number have been present since the 1979 Soviet invasion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As the clock ticks to the November 1st deadline set for undocumented migrants to leave Pakistan, more than 10,000 Afghans rushed to the borders on Tuesday. Starting Wednesday, the Pakistani government will start arresting undocumented Afghans and taking them to new holding centres, where they will be processed before being forcibly made to return to Afghanistan.

As the clock ticks to the November 1st deadline set for undocumented migrants to leave Pakistan, more than 10,000 Afghans rushed to the borders on Tuesday. Starting Wednesday, the Pakistani government will start arresting undocumented Afghans and taking them to new holding centres, where they will be processed before being forcibly made to return to Afghanistan. Pakistan's announcement On October 4th, Pakistan announced that starting Wednesday (Nov 1st) it will expel undocumented migrants who do not leave on their own. There are already reports of harassment and extortion from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the majority of Afghan migrants live. However, police as per AFP, said they are yet to begin arrests. Also read | Taliban slam Pakistan over its plan to expel over a million Afghan refugees The expulsion threat as per reports came after suicide bombings this year, which the South Asian nation's government said involved Afghans. However, Pakistan did not provide any evidence for the allegation. Islamabad has also blamed Afghan citizens for smuggling and other militant attacks in the nation. As per the Taliban's data, between Sept 23 to Oct 22, some 60,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan. Recent daily returnee figures to Afghanistan, as per a Reuters report quoting Taliban refugee ministry spokesman Abdul Mutaleb Haqqani, are three times higher than normal. "Thousands of Afghan refugees are waiting for their turn in vehicles, lorries, and trucks, and the number continues to grow," said Irshad Mohmand, a senior government official at the Torkham border, while talking to AFP. "More than 10,000 refugees have gathered since morning." Harassment or not Afghanistan's Taliban government, as per AFP, has said that Pakistan's policy amounts to "harassment". Also read | Pakistan: 40% population slips below poverty line, World Bank sounds alarm bell However, in a statement, Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that the expulsion plan was compliant with international norms and principles. "Our record of the last forty years in hosting millions of our Afghan brothers and sisters speaks for itself," said Baloch. Leaving 'home' Talking to Reuters, an undocumented Pakistan-born Afghan national who is married to a Pakistani woman said: "We'd live here our whole life if they didn't send us back." Over four million Afghans have made Pakistan their home, and about 1.7 million of them, according to Islamabad, are undocumented. While many of them sought refuge in Pakistan after the 2021 Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, a large number have been present since the 1979 Soviet invasion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tens of thousands of Afghans rush to leave Pakistan as Nov 1st deadline looms

<p>A mosque resembling the ‘Dome of the Rock’ of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque has been inaugurated in Kabul, reported Afghanistan’s local media.</p>

<p>The structure has been built at the instructions of the Taliban-run interior ministry, although the funds came from a Turkish organisation called IDDEF.</p>

<p>Taliban members said they hoped the $120,000 mosque would lead to the “liberation” of Al-Aqsa Mosque.</p>

<p>The mosque represented the “boundless love of Muslims, especially Afghans, to Palestine and Al-Aqsa,” Taliban’s acting Minister of Interior Sirajuddin Haqqani said at the opening ceremony of the mosque.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan sets up centres for Afghan migrants, to be given food and medical aid</strong></p>

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<p>The Taliban leader further added that supporting Muslims in the Hamas-Israel war was an “Islamic obligation.”</p>

<p>He also condemned Israel and Jews for their “oppression and aggression” against Palestinians.</p>

<h2><strong>Significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Hamas-Israel conflict</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas justified its Oct 7 assault on Israel by dubbing it as retaliation to Israel’s “desecration” of the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.</p>

<p>In fact, Hamas also named its terror campaign of launching 5,000 rockets into Israel as “Operation Al-Aqsa Deluge.”</p>

<h2><strong>Context</strong></h2>

<p>The Temple Mount is regarded as the holiest site in Judaism due to its historical connection to two biblical temples. On the other hand, the Al-Aqsa Mosque holds the status of being the third-holiest shrine in Islam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This has made the area a significant point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Tensions have frequently escalated into major conflicts and episodes of violence after events at the site.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistans-remarkable-win-over-pakistan-will-lead-to-ripple-effect-in-afghan-cricket-jonathan-trott-650574"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan`s remarkable win over Pakistan will lead to ripple effect in Afghan Cricket: Jonathan Trott</strong></a></p>

<p>While Jews and non-Muslims are allowed to visit the area during specific hours, they are not permitted to pray there, maintaining a long-standing status quo arrangement.</p>

<p>In recent times, Jewish religious nationalists, including members of the governing coalition, have increasingly been visiting the Temple Mount and advocating for equal prayer rights for Jews at the site. This has provoked anger among Palestinians and Muslims worldwide.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A mosque resembling the ‘Dome of the Rock’ of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque has been inaugurated in Kabul, reported Afghanistan’s local media. The structure has been built at the instructions of the Taliban-run interior ministry, although the funds came from a Turkish organisation called IDDEF.

A mosque resembling the ‘Dome of the Rock’ of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque has been inaugurated in Kabul, reported Afghanistan’s local media. The structure has been built at the instructions of the Taliban-run interior ministry, although the funds came from a Turkish organisation called IDDEF. Taliban members said they hoped the $120,000 mosque would lead to the “liberation” of Al-Aqsa Mosque. The mosque represented the “boundless love of Muslims, especially Afghans, to Palestine and Al-Aqsa,” Taliban’s acting Minister of Interior Sirajuddin Haqqani said at the opening ceremony of the mosque. Watch: Pakistan sets up centres for Afghan migrants, to be given food and medical aid × The Taliban leader further added that supporting Muslims in the Hamas-Israel war was an “Islamic obligation.” He also condemned Israel and Jews for their “oppression and aggression” against Palestinians. Significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Hamas-Israel conflict Hamas justified its Oct 7 assault on Israel by dubbing it as retaliation to Israel’s “desecration” of the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. In fact, Hamas also named its terror campaign of launching 5,000 rockets into Israel as “Operation Al-Aqsa Deluge.” Context The Temple Mount is regarded as the holiest site in Judaism due to its historical connection to two biblical temples. On the other hand, the Al-Aqsa Mosque holds the status of being the third-holiest shrine in Islam. This has made the area a significant point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Tensions have frequently escalated into major conflicts and episodes of violence after events at the site. Also read: Afghanistan`s remarkable win over Pakistan will lead to ripple effect in Afghan Cricket: Jonathan Trott While Jews and non-Muslims are allowed to visit the area during specific hours, they are not permitted to pray there, maintaining a long-standing status quo arrangement. In recent times, Jewish religious nationalists, including members of the governing coalition, have increasingly been visiting the Temple Mount and advocating for equal prayer rights for Jews at the site. This has provoked anger among Palestinians and Muslims worldwide. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taliban builds its own ‘Al-Aqsa mosque’ in Kabul in hopes of ‘liberating’ Jerusalem

In a move that could further deteriorate ongoing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, Pakistan's caretaker government has launched a fresh crackdown on Afghan refugees.

Pakistan sets up centres for Afghan migrants, to be given food and medical aid

Beijing to host 3rd Belt and Road Forum Oct. 17-18. Rep. from developing countries, incl. Latin America and Africa, to attend.

China to host Belt and Road forum in Beijing Oct 17-18

<p>The Taliban will attend China's Belt and Road Forum next week, a spokesman said on Saturday, underscoring Beijing's growing official ties with the administration, despite its lack of formal recognition by any government.</p>

<p>Taliban officials and ministers have at times travelled to regional meetings, mostly those focussed on Afghanistan, but the Belt and Road Forum is among the highest-profile multilateral summits it has been invited to attend.</p>

<p>The forum in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's ambitious global infrastructure and energy initiative, billed as recreating the ancient Silk Road to boost global trade.</p>

<p>The Taliban's acting minister for commerce and industry, Haji Nooruddin Azizi, will travel to Beijing in the coming days, ministry spokesman Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad said in a text message to Reuters.</p>

<p>"He will attend and will invite large investors&nbsp;to Afghanistan," he said.</p>

<p>The impoverished country could offer a wealth of coveted mineral resources. A mines minister estimated in 2010 that Afghanistan had untapped deposits, ranging from copper to gold and lithium, worth between $1 trillion and $3 trillion. It is not clear how much they are worth today.</p>

<p>China has been in talks with the Taliban over plans, begun under the previous foreign-backed government, over a possible huge copper mine in eastern Afghanistan.</p>

<p>China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>Azizi will continue discussions in Beijing on plans to build a road through the Wakhan corridor, a thin, mountainous strip in northern Afghanistan, to provide direct access to China, Akhundzada said.</p>

<p>Officials from China, the Taliban and neighbouring Pakistan said in May they would like Belt and Road to include Afghanistan and for the flagship China Pakistan Economic Corridor to be extended across the border to Afghanistan.</p>

<p>The Taliban has not been formally recognised by any government since taking control of Afghanistan two years ago as U.S. and other foreign forces withdrew.</p>

<p>A series of restrictions on women's access to public life and the barring of many female NGO staff from work has increased roadblocks to recognition, especially by Western countries, officials and international relations analysts say.</p>

<p>China has boosted engagement with the Taliban, becoming the first country to appoint an ambassador to Kabul since the Taliban took power, and invested in mining projects.</p>

<p>Beijing's ambassador presented his credentials to the Taliban's acting prime minister last month. Other nations have kept on previous ambassadors or appointed heads of mission in a charge d'affaires capacity that does not involve formally presenting credentials to the government.</p>

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The Taliban will attend China's Belt and Road Forum next week, a spokesman said on Saturday, underscoring Beijing's growing official ties with the administration, despite its lack of formal recognition by any government.

The Taliban will attend China's Belt and Road Forum next week, a spokesman said on Saturday, underscoring Beijing's growing official ties with the administration, despite its lack of formal recognition by any government. Taliban officials and ministers have at times travelled to regional meetings, mostly those focussed on Afghanistan, but the Belt and Road Forum is among the highest-profile multilateral summits it has been invited to attend. The forum in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's ambitious global infrastructure and energy initiative, billed as recreating the ancient Silk Road to boost global trade. The Taliban's acting minister for commerce and industry, Haji Nooruddin Azizi, will travel to Beijing in the coming days, ministry spokesman Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad said in a text message to Reuters. "He will attend and will invite large investors to Afghanistan," he said. The impoverished country could offer a wealth of coveted mineral resources. A mines minister estimated in 2010 that Afghanistan had untapped deposits, ranging from copper to gold and lithium, worth between $1 trillion and $3 trillion. It is not clear how much they are worth today. China has been in talks with the Taliban over plans, begun under the previous foreign-backed government, over a possible huge copper mine in eastern Afghanistan. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Azizi will continue discussions in Beijing on plans to build a road through the Wakhan corridor, a thin, mountainous strip in northern Afghanistan, to provide direct access to China, Akhundzada said. Officials from China, the Taliban and neighbouring Pakistan said in May they would like Belt and Road to include Afghanistan and for the flagship China Pakistan Economic Corridor to be extended across the border to Afghanistan. The Taliban has not been formally recognised by any government since taking control of Afghanistan two years ago as U.S. and other foreign forces withdrew. A series of restrictions on women's access to public life and the barring of many female NGO staff from work has increased roadblocks to recognition, especially by Western countries, officials and international relations analysts say. China has boosted engagement with the Taliban, becoming the first country to appoint an ambassador to Kabul since the Taliban took power, and invested in mining projects. Beijing's ambassador presented his credentials to the Taliban's acting prime minister last month. Other nations have kept on previous ambassadors or appointed heads of mission in a charge d'affaires capacity that does not involve formally presenting credentials to the government. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taliban to join China's Belt and Road forum, elevating ties

Search and rescue operations are still underway days after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked Afghanistan and left thousands of people dead and injured.

Afghanistan earthquakes death toll rise to 400

When the Taliban regime returned to power, life abruptly changed for women living in the country. In the short film 'Yellow', director Elham Ehsas, who has also acted in his movie, explores the life of people under the oppressive regime. In this exclusive interview with WION's Samarpita Das the director talks about his personal connection.

Elham Ehsas on Afghanistan: There's gender apartheid going on under Taliban regime

On October 7, 2023, a powerful earthquake struck western Afghanistan, with a magnitude of 6.3. The epicentre was located 25 miles (40 kilometres) west of Herat city in the western Herat province. The earthquake was the third largest in Afghanistan and was followed by multiple aftershocks.

Earthquake in Afghanistan: More than 2000 killed, over 10,000 injured

Earthquake in Afghanistan: Powerful earthquake triggers landslide in Afghanistan

Pakistan: All illegal immigrants including Afghans' ordered to leave country

Pakistan alters trade agreement with Afghanistan

<p>The Taliban government of Afghanistan slammed Pakistan's purported plan to expel "foreigners" Islamabad had said were illegally living in the country, and asked its neighbour to reconsider its decision.</p>

<p>The Taliban interim administration spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also rejected the allegations that Afghans are involved in terror activities in Pakistan.</p>

<p>“The behaviour of Pakistan against Afghan refugees is unacceptable. The Pakistani side should reconsider its plan. Afghan refugees are not involved in Pakistan's security problems. As long as they leave Pakistan voluntarily, that country should tolerate them," Mujahid said on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's emphasis on 'illegal immigrants'</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan has announced a one-month ultimatum for all the "illegal immigrants" to leave the country.</p>

<p>Addressing a news conference in the capital Islamabad, caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti said the government is giving a deadline to all foreigners living illegally to leave the country by November 1.</p>

<p>After the deadline, he said, all the illegal immigrants will be deported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai said that after the deadline ends, the government will confiscate the properties and businesses of illegal foreigners.</p>

<p>State-run Associated Press of Pakistan earlier reported that out of a total of 1.1 million foreigners who are posing a serious threat to national security, all illegal residents will be expelled from the country in the first phase.</p>

<p>In the second phase, those with Afghan citizenship and in the third phase, those with proof of residence cards will be evicted.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan orders illegal Afghan nationals to leave country; November 1 given as deadline | WION Pulse</strong></p>

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<p>A plan for eviction of "illegally residing" Afghan refugees has also been approved “as the lot is involved in funding, facilitating and smuggling terrorists whereas 700,000 Afghans have not renewed their proof of residence in Pakistan.”</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's plan to expel Afghan refugees: Reading between the lines</strong></h2>

<p>It is pertinent to note that Afghan refugees in Pakistan began arriving through its porous border after Islamabad's tactical and logistical support for Washington's proxy war against Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, which ended up bolstering Taliban.</p>

<p>After 9/11 attack, the US invasion of Afghanistan led to more number of Afghan refugees into Pakistan. This time, Pakistan chose to directly assist the American war in Afghanistan, while the elements within its military-intelligence complex giving refuge to the fleeing Taliban militias into Pakistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>But after the Taliban retook power in Kabul, a spate of terrorist attacks across Pakistan have shaken the military-intelligence nexus of the country. The elections for civilian government have been postponed at least till the end of January, which many analysts have pointed out, are aimed at dealing with the question of refugees as well as that of the faltering Pakistani economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Pakistan's refugee expulsion plan is executed, it will be the biggest expulsion of refugees in the region in the recent history.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Taliban government of Afghanistan slammed Pakistan's purported plan to expel "foreigners" Islamabad had said were illegally living in the country, and asked its neighbour to reconsider its decision.

The Taliban government of Afghanistan slammed Pakistan's purported plan to expel "foreigners" Islamabad had said were illegally living in the country, and asked its neighbour to reconsider its decision. The Taliban interim administration spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also rejected the allegations that Afghans are involved in terror activities in Pakistan. “The behaviour of Pakistan against Afghan refugees is unacceptable. The Pakistani side should reconsider its plan. Afghan refugees are not involved in Pakistan's security problems. As long as they leave Pakistan voluntarily, that country should tolerate them," Mujahid said on X. Pakistan's emphasis on 'illegal immigrants' Pakistan has announced a one-month ultimatum for all the "illegal immigrants" to leave the country. Addressing a news conference in the capital Islamabad, caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti said the government is giving a deadline to all foreigners living illegally to leave the country by November 1. After the deadline, he said, all the illegal immigrants will be deported. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' On Wednesday, Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai said that after the deadline ends, the government will confiscate the properties and businesses of illegal foreigners. State-run Associated Press of Pakistan earlier reported that out of a total of 1.1 million foreigners who are posing a serious threat to national security, all illegal residents will be expelled from the country in the first phase. In the second phase, those with Afghan citizenship and in the third phase, those with proof of residence cards will be evicted. Also watch | Pakistan orders illegal Afghan nationals to leave country; November 1 given as deadline | WION Pulse × A plan for eviction of "illegally residing" Afghan refugees has also been approved “as the lot is involved in funding, facilitating and smuggling terrorists whereas 700,000 Afghans have not renewed their proof of residence in Pakistan.” Pakistan's plan to expel Afghan refugees: Reading between the lines It is pertinent to note that Afghan refugees in Pakistan began arriving through its porous border after Islamabad's tactical and logistical support for Washington's proxy war against Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, which ended up bolstering Taliban. After 9/11 attack, the US invasion of Afghanistan led to more number of Afghan refugees into Pakistan. This time, Pakistan chose to directly assist the American war in Afghanistan, while the elements within its military-intelligence complex giving refuge to the fleeing Taliban militias into Pakistan. But after the Taliban retook power in Kabul, a spate of terrorist attacks across Pakistan have shaken the military-intelligence nexus of the country. The elections for civilian government have been postponed at least till the end of January, which many analysts have pointed out, are aimed at dealing with the question of refugees as well as that of the faltering Pakistani economy. If Pakistan's refugee expulsion plan is executed, it will be the biggest expulsion of refugees in the region in the recent history. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban slam Pakistan over its plan to expel over a million Afghan refugees

<p>Taliban's acting minister of higher education, Neda Mohammad Nadim, has expressed concerning views during an address at Baghlan University, raising fears of women's rights being further breached. Nadim claimed that there are ongoing efforts to dismantle the existing system, ostensibly due to concerns related to women's issues. The minister said that according to Sharia and Allah's decrees, men and women are not considered equals.</p>

<p>He argued that, despite Western nations' efforts to promote gender equality, men and women are fundamentally unequal in the eyes of Allah.</p>

<p>According to his beliefs, men hold a dominant position, possessing authority that must be unquestionably obeyed, while women are expected to accept this subordination.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/in-a-first-columbus-original-letter-announcing-discovery-of-america-to-go-on-sale-641453">In a first, Columbus' original letter announcing ‘discovery’ of America to go on sale</a></p>

<p>"The Almighty Allah has distinguished between men and women. A male is the ruler, he has the authority, he must be obeyed, and the woman must accept his world. A woman is not equal to a man; however, they [Western nations] have placed her above a man," Nadim stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges in educational system</strong></h2>

<p>During his address at Baghlan University,&nbsp;some professors and students raised concerns about the educational environment in universities, including the lack of resources and facilities.</p>

<p>Sayed Sati, a lecturer at Baghlan University, spoke of the need for proper equipment and facilities to promote scientific research and growth in universities.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-six-killed-in-nightclub-fire-in-murcia-city-death-toll-likely-to-rise-641445">Spain: Six killed in nightclub fire in Murcia city, death toll likely to rise</a></p>

<p>"The lack of regular transportation for students is the first issue. It should be taken care of because the distance between the city and the institution is great. The second issue is the lack of a dorm, which students have experienced for years,” said Student Yama Barna.</p>

<h2><strong>A controversial figure</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Nadim, a former governor and military commander, has made a solemn commitment to eradicate the modern secular education that gained prominence in Afghanistan following the US-led invasion in 2001, which led to the downfall of the Taliban's initial regime.</p>

<p>He has also expressed strong opposition to the education of girls and women, deeming it inconsistent with Islamic principles and Afghan cultural values.</p>

<p>His remarks have often ignited controversy and raised concerns that the Taliban may intensify restrictions on female education.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-parliament-attack-suicide-bomb-attack-reported-just-before-parliament-was-set-to-meet-641442">Turkey Parliament Attack: Suicide bomb attack reported just before Parliament was set to meet</a></strong></p>

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<p>The extremist group has already prohibited girls from attending high schools and enforced gender segregation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a speech in Herat on December 4 last year, Nadim said that it would be "disrespectful" for Taliban members to undergo academic examinations to determine their qualifications. He insisted that a Taliban fighter's credentials should be judged by the number of bombs they had detonated.</p>

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Taliban's acting minister of higher education, Neda Mohammad Nadim, has expressed concerning views during an address at Baghlan University, raising fears of women's rights being further breached.

Taliban's acting minister of higher education, Neda Mohammad Nadim, has expressed concerning views during an address at Baghlan University, raising fears of women's rights being further breached. Nadim claimed that there are ongoing efforts to dismantle the existing system, ostensibly due to concerns related to women's issues. The minister said that according to Sharia and Allah's decrees, men and women are not considered equals. He argued that, despite Western nations' efforts to promote gender equality, men and women are fundamentally unequal in the eyes of Allah. According to his beliefs, men hold a dominant position, possessing authority that must be unquestionably obeyed, while women are expected to accept this subordination. Also Read | In a first, Columbus' original letter announcing ‘discovery’ of America to go on sale "The Almighty Allah has distinguished between men and women. A male is the ruler, he has the authority, he must be obeyed, and the woman must accept his world. A woman is not equal to a man; however, they [Western nations] have placed her above a man," Nadim stated. Challenges in educational system During his address at Baghlan University, some professors and students raised concerns about the educational environment in universities, including the lack of resources and facilities. Sayed Sati, a lecturer at Baghlan University, spoke of the need for proper equipment and facilities to promote scientific research and growth in universities. Also Read | Spain: Six killed in nightclub fire in Murcia city, death toll likely to rise "The lack of regular transportation for students is the first issue. It should be taken care of because the distance between the city and the institution is great. The second issue is the lack of a dorm, which students have experienced for years,” said Student Yama Barna. A controversial figure Nadim, a former governor and military commander, has made a solemn commitment to eradicate the modern secular education that gained prominence in Afghanistan following the US-led invasion in 2001, which led to the downfall of the Taliban's initial regime. He has also expressed strong opposition to the education of girls and women, deeming it inconsistent with Islamic principles and Afghan cultural values. His remarks have often ignited controversy and raised concerns that the Taliban may intensify restrictions on female education. Watch | Turkey Parliament Attack: Suicide bomb attack reported just before Parliament was set to meet × The extremist group has already prohibited girls from attending high schools and enforced gender segregation. During a speech in Herat on December 4 last year, Nadim said that it would be "disrespectful" for Taliban members to undergo academic examinations to determine their qualifications. He insisted that a Taliban fighter's credentials should be judged by the number of bombs they had detonated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

‘Women must accept it's a man’s world’: Taliban education minister promotes gender inequality

Taliban rulers urged to prevent Afghanistan from 'being terror, instability hotspot'. Moscow format asks the Taliban to cooperate against threats of terrorism and drug trafficking emanating from the country.

Taliban urged to avert country from 'being instability hotspot'

<p>In an unprecedented turn of events, Afghanistan's currency, the afghani, has soared to the top of global currency rankings this quarter, outperforming many other currencies worldwide. Billions of dollars from humanitarian aid and increasing trade with Asian neighbours have played pivotal roles in this unexpected rise. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Bloomberg reported that despite the country's dire economic and humanitarian situation, the afghani has appreciated by approximately 9 per cent this quarter and will continue to appreciate by about 14 per cent over the course of the year, trailing only behind the Colombian peso and Sri Lankan rupee in global currency rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban regime, which seized control of Afghanistan two years ago, has implemented stringent measures to maintain control over the afghani's value. These measures include banning the use of foreign currencies like the US dollar and Pakistani rupee in local transactions, tightening restrictions on the movement of foreign currencies, and criminalising online trading. This has led to a significant increase in demand for the afghani, which has, in turn, driven up its value.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bloomberg cited Kamran Bokhari, an expert in Middle Eastern, Central, and South Asian affairs at the Washington-based New Lines Institute for Strategy &amp; Policy, who said, "The hard currency controls are working, but the economic, social, and political instability will render this rise in the currency as a short-term phenomenon." &nbsp;</p>

<p>In the wake of financial sanctions, foreign exchange transactions in Afghanistan now predominantly occur through money changers, locally known as ‘sarrafs,’ who operate in markets and shops across the country. This decentralised approach to currency exchange has become essential as Afghanistan remains largely cut off from the global financial system due to international sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, remittances to Afghanistan are primarily facilitated through the centuries-old Hawala money transfer system, commonly practiced in regions such as the Middle East. This system has become integral to the operations of the sarrafs who handle the bulk of foreign exchange transactions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Afghanistan's currency is on the rise, the humanitarian situation remains dire. The United Nations estimates that the country needs approximately $3.2 billion in aid this year, but only about $1.1 billion has been deployed so far, leaving millions in desperate need.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the challenges, reports suggest there is optimism regarding Afghanistan's economic outlook. The World Bank predicts that the economy will stop contracting this year and may even see growth of 2 per cent to 3 per cent until 2025. However, there are concerns about potential reductions in global aid as the Taliban intensifies its repression of women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tightened restrictions on foreign exchange transactions and a very gradual improvement in trade are pushing up demand for the afghani," Bloomberg quoted Anwita Basu, head of Europe country risk at BMI in London. She also added that the currency is likely to stabilize at current levels until the end of the year. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, Afghanistan's cash-strapped Taliban government is actively seeking investment in the country's valuable resources, including lithium and minerals estimated to be worth as much as $3 trillion. Agreements with Chinese, British, and Turkish companies to develop large-scale mining operations have been finalised, with further investments expected as part of the Belt and Road Initiative expansion into Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the afghani's recent success, it remains vulnerable to shifts in political stability. BMI's Anwita Basu told Bloomberg, "Ultimately, political stability will make or break the currency – if the Taliban lose control at home, then the currency too will suffer."&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from Bloomberg)&nbsp;</i></p>

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In an unprecedented turn of events, Afghanistan's currency, the afghani, has soared to the top of global currency rankings this quarter, outperforming many other currencies worldwide.

In an unprecedented turn of events, Afghanistan's currency, the afghani, has soared to the top of global currency rankings this quarter, outperforming many other currencies worldwide. Billions of dollars from humanitarian aid and increasing trade with Asian neighbours have played pivotal roles in this unexpected rise. Bloomberg reported that despite the country's dire economic and humanitarian situation, the afghani has appreciated by approximately 9 per cent this quarter and will continue to appreciate by about 14 per cent over the course of the year, trailing only behind the Colombian peso and Sri Lankan rupee in global currency rankings. The Taliban regime, which seized control of Afghanistan two years ago, has implemented stringent measures to maintain control over the afghani's value. These measures include banning the use of foreign currencies like the US dollar and Pakistani rupee in local transactions, tightening restrictions on the movement of foreign currencies, and criminalising online trading. This has led to a significant increase in demand for the afghani, which has, in turn, driven up its value. Bloomberg cited Kamran Bokhari, an expert in Middle Eastern, Central, and South Asian affairs at the Washington-based New Lines Institute for Strategy & Policy, who said, "The hard currency controls are working, but the economic, social, and political instability will render this rise in the currency as a short-term phenomenon." In the wake of financial sanctions, foreign exchange transactions in Afghanistan now predominantly occur through money changers, locally known as ‘sarrafs,’ who operate in markets and shops across the country. This decentralised approach to currency exchange has become essential as Afghanistan remains largely cut off from the global financial system due to international sanctions. Moreover, remittances to Afghanistan are primarily facilitated through the centuries-old Hawala money transfer system, commonly practiced in regions such as the Middle East. This system has become integral to the operations of the sarrafs who handle the bulk of foreign exchange transactions. While Afghanistan's currency is on the rise, the humanitarian situation remains dire. The United Nations estimates that the country needs approximately $3.2 billion in aid this year, but only about $1.1 billion has been deployed so far, leaving millions in desperate need. Despite the challenges, reports suggest there is optimism regarding Afghanistan's economic outlook. The World Bank predicts that the economy will stop contracting this year and may even see growth of 2 per cent to 3 per cent until 2025. However, there are concerns about potential reductions in global aid as the Taliban intensifies its repression of women. "Tightened restrictions on foreign exchange transactions and a very gradual improvement in trade are pushing up demand for the afghani," Bloomberg quoted Anwita Basu, head of Europe country risk at BMI in London. She also added that the currency is likely to stabilize at current levels until the end of the year. Additionally, Afghanistan's cash-strapped Taliban government is actively seeking investment in the country's valuable resources, including lithium and minerals estimated to be worth as much as $3 trillion. Agreements with Chinese, British, and Turkish companies to develop large-scale mining operations have been finalised, with further investments expected as part of the Belt and Road Initiative expansion into Afghanistan. Despite the afghani's recent success, it remains vulnerable to shifts in political stability. BMI's Anwita Basu told Bloomberg, "Ultimately, political stability will make or break the currency – if the Taliban lose control at home, then the currency too will suffer." (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Under Taliban, Afghan currency tops global rankings amid turmoil

Defying the Taliban’s restrictions, the Afghanistan women’s volleyball team on Wednesday went through their paces during a rigorous training session – dressed in lycra leggings and shirts sporting the traditional colors of red, black, and green, the colors of the former government’s flag.

Afghan women athletes defy Taliban at Asian Games

Afghanistan's currency rise amidst the 'Taliban' chaos has made a lot of people scratch their heads. How many billion dollars in humanitarian aid and a peculiar set of circumstances have propelled Afghanistan currency?

The great Afghanistan currency surge: Afghanistan's uncertain economic outlook

Representatives of Afghanistan and Pakistan engaged in a better face-off during the United Nations Security Council meeting in New York.

Pakistan, Afghanistan face off at UNSC meet

It's been two years since the fall of Kabul. Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are prohibited from going to secondary school. Taliban authorities have imposed an austere interpretation of Islam since storming to power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of the U.S.-led foreign forces that backed the previous governments. There are many who managed to flee the country to pursue their dreams. Many universities based out of the United States came up with different scholarships to help displaced Afghan students. How are these Afghan students doing now? Take a look

Afghan women in crisis: will world leaders at UNGA act now?

<p>A vlogger from the southern Indian state of Kerala is drawing flak after he travelled to Afghanistan and shared a video praising the Taliban regime, local media reported on Tuesday (September 19). Muhammed Yaseen, who runs a YouTube channel by the name of "Yaseen Vlogs," has been sharing videos of his stay in Afghanistan. On September 13, Yaseen uploaded a video titled "TALIBAN GUN COLLATIONS" where he praised the Taliban and showed some of their guns.</p>

<p>The video has garnered over 163,000 views. Yaseen claimed in the video that the Taliban had been very welcoming and friendly.</p>

<p>The video has since been&nbsp;criticised on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another video, Yaseen talked about open gun markets in Afghanistan and shared a video of the regime inviting him for lunch.</p>

<p>He also shared another video talking about the life of women under the regime.</p>

<p>Since taking over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban have strictly restricted the rights and freedoms of women and girls through bans on education and work. The regime has said that they respect women's rights in line with their interpretation of Islamic law and local custom.</p>

<p>On September 12, the UN rights chief accused the Taliban of a "shocking level of oppression" of women and girls and said human rights in Afghanistan were in a state of collapse.</p>

<p>“Human rights in Afghanistan are in a state of collapse, acutely affecting the lives of millions of women, men, girls and boys,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk told the Human Rights Council in Geneva.</p>

<p>“The shocking level of oppression of Afghan women and girls is immeasurably cruel,” he added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A vlogger from the southern Indian state of Kerala is drawing flak after he travelled to Afghanistan and shared a video praising the Taliban regime, local media reported on Tuesday (September 19).

A vlogger from the southern Indian state of Kerala is drawing flak after he travelled to Afghanistan and shared a video praising the Taliban regime, local media reported on Tuesday (September 19). Muhammed Yaseen, who runs a YouTube channel by the name of "Yaseen Vlogs," has been sharing videos of his stay in Afghanistan. On September 13, Yaseen uploaded a video titled "TALIBAN GUN COLLATIONS" where he praised the Taliban and showed some of their guns. The video has garnered over 163,000 views. Yaseen claimed in the video that the Taliban had been very welcoming and friendly. The video has since been criticised on social media. In another video, Yaseen talked about open gun markets in Afghanistan and shared a video of the regime inviting him for lunch. He also shared another video talking about the life of women under the regime. Since taking over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban have strictly restricted the rights and freedoms of women and girls through bans on education and work. The regime has said that they respect women's rights in line with their interpretation of Islamic law and local custom. On September 12, the UN rights chief accused the Taliban of a "shocking level of oppression" of women and girls and said human rights in Afghanistan were in a state of collapse. “Human rights in Afghanistan are in a state of collapse, acutely affecting the lives of millions of women, men, girls and boys,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk told the Human Rights Council in Geneva. “The shocking level of oppression of Afghan women and girls is immeasurably cruel,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian vlogger travels to Afghanistan, shows off Taliban’s gun collection, draws flak

Pakistan border tensions with Afghanistan have fled up and has happened yet again for the umpteenth time in a show of defiance and military might. The Taliban-led government has bolstered its presence along the Afghan-Pakistan border.

Taliban bolsters border presence; 1,600 mile border, marred in conflict | World News | WION

'Taliban are not friendly with musicians, they burn musical instruments, that's ultimate cruelty for a musician.' In an exclusive chat with WION's Samarpita Das, Afghan refugee and singer Abi K Safa talks about his struggle as a musician under the Taliban and tells how he ended up working with the three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej.

From Afghanistan to India, meet ace singer of Ricky Kej's band

<p>Over two years after the haphazard pullback from Afghanistan, the Pentagon has decided to revisit the Kabul bomb blast that killed 13 Americans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Facing backlash from the GOP lawmakers and military personnel, Pentagon will interview two dozen new witnesses to the Kabul bombing but added that it does not amount to reopening the investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>General Michael E. Kurilla, overseeing the US Central Command, ordered the interviews saying&nbsp;it was “to ensure we do our due diligence" after new information came to light, according to <em>The Washington Post</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A number of service members who were severely wounded in the bombing and had to be quickly evacuated from the country represent the bulk of the individuals to be interviewed. A few others who weren't wounded but present on the site will also be interviewed, with the Central Command not ruling out the possibility of growing the scope of investigation if new threads emerge from the interviews.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fresh investigation by the authorities was partly triggered by assertions from one of the service members injured in the blast who said he was never interviewed and that he may have been able to stop the attackers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by The Post last year revealed that two US Marines had spotted a man, matching the description of the&nbsp;alleged bomber and asked for permission to strike. However, the high command did not grant them permission, saying there were too many civilians nearby.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deserted-look-in-kabul-after-recent-bombings-near-hamid-karzai-international-airport-408937"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Deserted look in Kabul after recent bombings near Hamid Karzai International Airport</strong></a></p>

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<p>Notably, the Central Command's investigation report into the blasts, published in October 2021 stated that owing to the worsening security situation at the airport's Abbey Gate&nbsp;"the attack was not preventable at the tactical level without degrading the mission to maximize the number of evacuees".</p>

<h2><strong>Former Marine slams Biden administration&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Former Marine Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews who made the claims,&nbsp;during a powerful and emotional testimony before Congress earlier this year, slammed the Biden administration for its apathy in dealing with the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Plain and simple, we were ignored. My body was overwhelmed from the trauma of the blast. My abdomen had been ripped open. Every inch of my exposed body took ball bearings and shrapnel," said the former US Marine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was an inexcusable lack of accountability and negligence. I see the faces of all of those we could not save, those we left behind," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-where-did-us-go-wrong-in-fight-against-taliban-406022"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban?</strong></a></p>

<p>The bombing took place in the afternoon of August 26, 2021, as thousands of civilians, desperate to escape the clutches of the Taliban administration, lined up in masses outside the&nbsp;Hamid Karzai International Airport.</p>

<p>The US intelligence failed to anticipate the timeline of the Taliban taking over Kabul which resulted in the chaotic situation and the eventual bombing that led to the death of over 170 Afghans and 13 US servicemen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Over two years after the haphazard pullback from Afghanistan, the Pentagon has decided to revisit the Kabul bomb blast that killed 13 Americans. Facing backlash from the GOP lawmakers and military personnel, Pentagon will interview two dozen new witnesses to the Kabul bombing but added that it does not amount to reopening the investigation.

Over two years after the haphazard pullback from Afghanistan, the Pentagon has decided to revisit the Kabul bomb blast that killed 13 Americans. Facing backlash from the GOP lawmakers and military personnel, Pentagon will interview two dozen new witnesses to the Kabul bombing but added that it does not amount to reopening the investigation. General Michael E. Kurilla, overseeing the US Central Command, ordered the interviews saying it was “to ensure we do our due diligence" after new information came to light, according to The Washington Post. A number of service members who were severely wounded in the bombing and had to be quickly evacuated from the country represent the bulk of the individuals to be interviewed. A few others who weren't wounded but present on the site will also be interviewed, with the Central Command not ruling out the possibility of growing the scope of investigation if new threads emerge from the interviews. The fresh investigation by the authorities was partly triggered by assertions from one of the service members injured in the blast who said he was never interviewed and that he may have been able to stop the attackers. A report by The Post last year revealed that two US Marines had spotted a man, matching the description of the alleged bomber and asked for permission to strike. However, the high command did not grant them permission, saying there were too many civilians nearby. Watch | Deserted look in Kabul after recent bombings near Hamid Karzai International Airport × Notably, the Central Command's investigation report into the blasts, published in October 2021 stated that owing to the worsening security situation at the airport's Abbey Gate "the attack was not preventable at the tactical level without degrading the mission to maximize the number of evacuees". Former Marine slams Biden administration Former Marine Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews who made the claims, during a powerful and emotional testimony before Congress earlier this year, slammed the Biden administration for its apathy in dealing with the situation. "Plain and simple, we were ignored. My body was overwhelmed from the trauma of the blast. My abdomen had been ripped open. Every inch of my exposed body took ball bearings and shrapnel," said the former US Marine. "There was an inexcusable lack of accountability and negligence. I see the faces of all of those we could not save, those we left behind," he added. Read more: Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban? The bombing took place in the afternoon of August 26, 2021, as thousands of civilians, desperate to escape the clutches of the Taliban administration, lined up in masses outside the Hamid Karzai International Airport. The US intelligence failed to anticipate the timeline of the Taliban taking over Kabul which resulted in the chaotic situation and the eventual bombing that led to the death of over 170 Afghans and 13 US servicemen. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pentagon to revisit Kabul airport bombing that killed 13 US servicemen, interview two dozen new witnesses

Afghanistan is in a time warp not allowed to work and for men there is hardly any work. Healthcare, education and almost everything is derelict. The country has come to a virtual standstill after the Taliban took control.

NGOs under scrutiny in Afghanistan: Taliban detains 18 NGO staff members, US woman among them | WION

From Afghanistan to India, meet ace singer of Ricky Kej's band- Abi K Safa

After being blocked for nine days due to an exchange of fire between the security forces of Pakistan and Afghanistan, a crucial border crossing has now been restored to both foot and vehicle traffic. Muhammad Anas, a representative of the Torkham border crossing in the Khyber district of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Torkham border crossing reopens after 'deadly' clashes

<p>The Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan reopened to pedestrians and vehicles early Friday (September 15), according to a report by the news agency AFP, citing a senior official. This comes over a week after the crossing was closed following a reported&nbsp;deadly cross-border raid from Afghanistan by “hundreds” of Pakistan Taliban militants.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Afghan-Pakistan border reopens</strong></h2>

<p>The border crossing reopened after days of diplomatic deadlock between Islamabad and Kabul following an altercation between the Pakistani troops and Afghan border forces which also reportedly involved “hundreds” of Pakistan’s home-grown Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) movement, in a dispute over an Afghan outpost being constructed.</p>

<p>“The clearance of trucks is in process and Afghan citizens are entering Afghanistan after clearance and passing immigration processes,” Irshad Khan Mohmamd, assistant commissioner of Khyber district in Pakistan, told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-and-pakistani-taliban-collaborated-on-recent-attacks-targeting-pak-law-enforcement-583046">Afghanistan, Pakistani Taliban 'collaborated' on attacks targeting Pak law enforcement: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The closure of the border following Pakistan and Afghanistan army clashes and exchange of fire had left hundreds of travellers and trucks stranded on the busiest crossing between the two nations, which share a porous 2,600-kilometre frontier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An AFP team on the Afghan side of the border said that the gates were still closed, as of now, while crowds had gathered in anticipation of crossing to Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The closure also prompted complaints from traders who said that tonnes of perishable goods were lost while Afghan travellers missed essential hospital appointments or flights out of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 1,300 vehicles, including trucks and trailers, were on the Pakistan side waiting to cross, said the media report, citing officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/peshawar-mosque-blast-ttp-soldier-claims-responsibility-calls-it-act-of-revenge-557337">Peshawar mosque blast: TTP bomber claims responsibility, calls it act of revenge; toll rises to 61</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, people in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar held protests earlier this week over the closure and said Islamabad has regularly closed the Torkham crossing under various pretexts during the fruit and vegetable season.</p>

<h2><strong>About the&nbsp;clashes between&nbsp;Pakistan and Afghanistan troops</strong></h2>

<p>On September 6, a gun battle erupted between Pakistan and Afghan border forces, said the officials, with each side blaming the other for starting the firefight. Since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul two years ago, Islamabad has accused them of harbouring militants carrying out strikes on its soil.</p>

<p>However, Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities have repeatedly denied the allegations. Pakistan, on Monday (Sep 11) said that “unprovoked firing by Afghan border security forces invariably emboldens the terrorist elements”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-will-target-ttp-on-afghan-soil-taliban-says-things-can-be-resolved-by-dialogue-548657">Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate</a></strong></p>

<p>“They were in hundreds and were armed with light and heavy weapons. We were ready to face the attack and exchange of fire continued for some four hours,” Mohammad Ali, deputy commissioner of Chitral district, told AFP, referring to the TTP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The TTP is said to have reportedly been emboldened by the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul and is increasingly a point of contention between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan reopened to pedestrians and vehicles early Friday (September 15), according to a report by the news agency AFP, citing a senior official.

The Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan reopened to pedestrians and vehicles early Friday (September 15), according to a report by the news agency AFP, citing a senior official. This comes over a week after the crossing was closed following a reported deadly cross-border raid from Afghanistan by “hundreds” of Pakistan Taliban militants. Afghan-Pakistan border reopens The border crossing reopened after days of diplomatic deadlock between Islamabad and Kabul following an altercation between the Pakistani troops and Afghan border forces which also reportedly involved “hundreds” of Pakistan’s home-grown Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) movement, in a dispute over an Afghan outpost being constructed. “The clearance of trucks is in process and Afghan citizens are entering Afghanistan after clearance and passing immigration processes,” Irshad Khan Mohmamd, assistant commissioner of Khyber district in Pakistan, told AFP. ALSO READ | Afghanistan, Pakistani Taliban 'collaborated' on attacks targeting Pak law enforcement: Report The closure of the border following Pakistan and Afghanistan army clashes and exchange of fire had left hundreds of travellers and trucks stranded on the busiest crossing between the two nations, which share a porous 2,600-kilometre frontier. An AFP team on the Afghan side of the border said that the gates were still closed, as of now, while crowds had gathered in anticipation of crossing to Pakistan. The closure also prompted complaints from traders who said that tonnes of perishable goods were lost while Afghan travellers missed essential hospital appointments or flights out of Pakistan. More than 1,300 vehicles, including trucks and trailers, were on the Pakistan side waiting to cross, said the media report, citing officials. ALSO READ | Peshawar mosque blast: TTP bomber claims responsibility, calls it act of revenge; toll rises to 61 Meanwhile, people in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar held protests earlier this week over the closure and said Islamabad has regularly closed the Torkham crossing under various pretexts during the fruit and vegetable season. About the clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan troops On September 6, a gun battle erupted between Pakistan and Afghan border forces, said the officials, with each side blaming the other for starting the firefight. Since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul two years ago, Islamabad has accused them of harbouring militants carrying out strikes on its soil. However, Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities have repeatedly denied the allegations. Pakistan, on Monday (Sep 11) said that “unprovoked firing by Afghan border security forces invariably emboldens the terrorist elements”. ALSO READ | Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate “They were in hundreds and were armed with light and heavy weapons. We were ready to face the attack and exchange of fire continued for some four hours,” Mohammad Ali, deputy commissioner of Chitral district, told AFP, referring to the TTP. The TTP is said to have reportedly been emboldened by the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul and is increasingly a point of contention between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghan-Pakistan border crossing reopens after ‘deadly’ clashes: Report

<p>China's appointment of Ambassador Zhao Sheng to Afghanistan has sent ripples through the global diplomatic arena. After the Taliban's resurgence following the withdrawal of US forces, China became the first country to officially appoint a new ambassador to Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahmad Nader Nadery, a Senior Fellow at the Wilson Center, and&nbsp;Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institute of Stanford, and one of Afghanistan's former peace negotiators&nbsp;in Doha talks, spoke to WION about China's motivations and strategic interests in Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>China's economic ambitions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Nadery underscored the economic interests driving China's engagement with Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For long, China had its eyes on Afghanistan’s natural resources. Especially of rare earth minerals, iron, and copper. It encouraged its private sector to seek concessions from the Taliban on medium and large-size mines. While Afghanistan was not initially an essential part of the Belt and Road Initiative, it has become an essential part of the focus for mining purposes."</p>

<h2><strong>Uyghur security concerns&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Nadery also spoke to WION about China's security concerns, in regards to anti-China Uyghur groups. China wants Afghanistan to stop these Uyghur groups from causing trouble as it believes that since these groups&nbsp;want to free Xinjiang, they can cause instability for Beijing in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While China previously cooperated with the Afghan Republic on security matters, the Taliban's reluctance to engage to the same extent has prompted China to recalibrate its approach, Nadery pointed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-chinas-smokescreen-tricks-the-world-against-reforms-at-un-security-council-635950">How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council</a></p>

<p>"Uyghur militant groups have been a key topic of China’s interaction with the Afghan government in the past two decades. There has been security cooperation with the Afghan Republic on the violent actors including Uyghurs, but the Taliban seems to be unwilling to cooperate with China to the extent they want. In my view, China pursues strategic interests in Afghanistan and believes it&nbsp;can achieve it through the Taliban. First is access to vast natural resources and second is security in relation to Uyghurs."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Geopolitical rivalry&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Nadery also placed China's actions in the broader context of escalating US-China rivalry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afghanistan's rare earth resources have become yet another battleground in the global competition between these superpowers. While engaging with the Taliban, China remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding its strategic interests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A third element has emerged in the past two years and that is the US-China escalating rivalry," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>So, engaging with Taliban wrong or right?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Nadery&nbsp;also provides&nbsp;a valuable perspective on China's calculated moves in Afghanistan and their implications for the region and the world at large.</p>

<p>"The last two years show that engagement with the Taliban would not change their behaviour. It gives them more reason to remain unchanged and uncommitted to the demands of the international community. While having an ambassador-level head of mission in Kabul and not officially recognising the Taliban, China indicated that it’s there only to protect its strategic interests in the areas I have mentioned," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>A milestone for China?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While some might perceive Ambassador Zhao Sheng's appointment as a diplomatic milestone, Nadery reminds that it is part of China's ongoing diplomatic engagement, not an outright recognition of the Taliban regime.</p>

<p>"In my view, it’s not an elevation of diplomatic relations between China and the Taliban. China’s ambassador, like Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, continued their diplomatic presence with their ambassadors stationed in Kabul. However, with the ambassador’s term ending, this was the first to present the credentials to the Taliban's de facto prime minister."</p>

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China's appointment of Ambassador Zhao Sheng to Afghanistan has sent ripples through the global diplomatic arena. After the Taliban's resurgence following the withdrawal of US forces, China became the first country to officially appoint a new ambassador to Kabul.

China's appointment of Ambassador Zhao Sheng to Afghanistan has sent ripples through the global diplomatic arena. After the Taliban's resurgence following the withdrawal of US forces, China became the first country to officially appoint a new ambassador to Kabul. Ahmad Nader Nadery, a Senior Fellow at the Wilson Center, and Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institute of Stanford, and one of Afghanistan's former peace negotiators in Doha talks, spoke to WION about China's motivations and strategic interests in Afghanistan. China's economic ambitions Nadery underscored the economic interests driving China's engagement with Afghanistan. "For long, China had its eyes on Afghanistan’s natural resources. Especially of rare earth minerals, iron, and copper. It encouraged its private sector to seek concessions from the Taliban on medium and large-size mines. While Afghanistan was not initially an essential part of the Belt and Road Initiative, it has become an essential part of the focus for mining purposes." Uyghur security concerns Nadery also spoke to WION about China's security concerns, in regards to anti-China Uyghur groups. China wants Afghanistan to stop these Uyghur groups from causing trouble as it believes that since these groups want to free Xinjiang, they can cause instability for Beijing in the region. While China previously cooperated with the Afghan Republic on security matters, the Taliban's reluctance to engage to the same extent has prompted China to recalibrate its approach, Nadery pointed out. Also Read | How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council "Uyghur militant groups have been a key topic of China’s interaction with the Afghan government in the past two decades. There has been security cooperation with the Afghan Republic on the violent actors including Uyghurs, but the Taliban seems to be unwilling to cooperate with China to the extent they want. In my view, China pursues strategic interests in Afghanistan and believes it can achieve it through the Taliban. First is access to vast natural resources and second is security in relation to Uyghurs." Geopolitical rivalry Nadery also placed China's actions in the broader context of escalating US-China rivalry. Afghanistan's rare earth resources have become yet another battleground in the global competition between these superpowers. While engaging with the Taliban, China remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding its strategic interests. "A third element has emerged in the past two years and that is the US-China escalating rivalry," he added. So, engaging with Taliban wrong or right? Nadery also provides a valuable perspective on China's calculated moves in Afghanistan and their implications for the region and the world at large. "The last two years show that engagement with the Taliban would not change their behaviour. It gives them more reason to remain unchanged and uncommitted to the demands of the international community. While having an ambassador-level head of mission in Kabul and not officially recognising the Taliban, China indicated that it’s there only to protect its strategic interests in the areas I have mentioned," he said. A milestone for China? While some might perceive Ambassador Zhao Sheng's appointment as a diplomatic milestone, Nadery reminds that it is part of China's ongoing diplomatic engagement, not an outright recognition of the Taliban regime. "In my view, it’s not an elevation of diplomatic relations between China and the Taliban. China’s ambassador, like Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, continued their diplomatic presence with their ambassadors stationed in Kabul. However, with the ambassador’s term ending, this was the first to present the credentials to the Taliban's de facto prime minister." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

China's economic interests driving its engagement with Kabul, former peace negotiator tells WION

Is China Taliban's new best friend? China has become the first country to officially establish diplomatic ties with the Taliban. It has also appointed a new envoy in Kabul. What is China's game plan? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: China formalises diplomatic ties with Taliban | China appoints envoy to Kabul

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