The Taliban government has entered its first talks with the United Nations, donors and non-governmental organisations over the impact of climate change in Afghanistan, organisers said Wednesday.

Taliban joins UN climate change talks

Taliban has hit back at Pakistan for accusations of spike in terror attacks. The Taliban's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi without naming Pakistan said that while one neighbour is serving as recruitment centre for terror, i.e ISIS, the other is a transit route for terror.

Taliban hits back at Pakistan over terror charge, says 'Pakistan acts as terror transit route'

Afghanistan's ruling Taliban regime has participated in climate talks with the United Nations International donors and non-governmental organizations. For the first time, the defacto government's officials joined parallel face-to-face online sessions to discuss the impact of climate change with their Western counterparts.

Afghan Olympian Friba Rezayee has called on the International Olympic Committee to ban Afghanistan from the upcoming Paris Olympics scheduled in July this year due to the Taliban's human rights record. Has the IOC turned a blind eye to Taliban violations?

Paris Olympics 2024: Will IOC ban Afghanistan from Paris Olympics?

Floods caused by heavy monsoon rains in Afghanistan have destroyed crops and infrastructure. It left a number of people dead and injured.

Spring downpours cause exacerbating flash-flooding

An internal rift is seemingly brewing in the Taliban. In a rare instance, two senior Taliban leaders Hibatullah Akhundzada & Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani have resorted to criticism of each other.

Rift within Taliban?: Differences between Akhunzada & Haqqani? Tension among influential leaders

Rift between Taliban: Rare tension among influential leaders; rift between hardline & moderate

India on Friday (Apr 12) reacted to indications that suggested that the Taliban government in Afghanistan has been taking steps towards returning lands to Sikhs and Hindus that were taken from them.&nbsp;

During a weekly media briefing, the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said that it is a "positive development".&nbsp;

"We have also seen reports. If the Taliban administration has decided to restore property rights to Hindus and Sikhs from Afghanistan," Jaiswal said.&nbsp;

"I mean, who are their nationals, it is something which is a positive development. That is how we look at it," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-man-arrested-after-he-axes-wife-seven-children-to-death-710496">Unable to feed family, Pak man kills wife and seven kids with axe</a>&nbsp;

Recent media reports claimed that the Taliban justice ministry has come up with some solutions for the property problems that the minorities were facing and that property rights have been restored to the Hindus, and the Sikhs.&nbsp;

Kabul-based Ariana News on March 10 reported that the Land-Grabbing Prevention and Restitution Commission has started investigating cases of usurped land belonging to Hindu and Sikh communities across the country.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-chief-says-pakistan-seeking-potential-follow-up-loan-program-710263">IMF chief says Pakistan seeking potential follow-up loan program</a>&nbsp;

News agencies&nbsp;said that the Ministry of Justice issued a&nbsp;statement instructing&nbsp;technical teams in the capital and in provinces to identify usurped land belonging to Hindu and Sikh communities and land at risk of being grabbed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India on Friday (Apr 12) reacted to indications that suggested that the Taliban government in Afghanistan has been taking steps towards returning lands to Sikhs and Hindus that were taken from them.

India on Friday (Apr 12) reacted to indications that suggested that the Taliban government in Afghanistan has been taking steps towards returning lands to Sikhs and Hindus that were taken from them. During a weekly media briefing, the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said that it is a "positive development". "We have also seen reports. If the Taliban administration has decided to restore property rights to Hindus and Sikhs from Afghanistan," Jaiswal said. "I mean, who are their nationals, it is something which is a positive development. That is how we look at it," he added. Also read: Unable to feed family, Pak man kills wife and seven kids with axe Recent media reports claimed that the Taliban justice ministry has come up with some solutions for the property problems that the minorities were facing and that property rights have been restored to the Hindus, and the Sikhs. Kabul-based Ariana News on March 10 reported that the Land-Grabbing Prevention and Restitution Commission has started investigating cases of usurped land belonging to Hindu and Sikh communities across the country. Also read: IMF chief says Pakistan seeking potential follow-up loan program News agencies said that the Ministry of Justice issued a statement instructing technical teams in the capital and in provinces to identify usurped land belonging to Hindu and Sikh communities and land at risk of being grabbed. (With inputs from agencies)

India reacts to Taliban restoring property rights to Afghan Hindus, Sikhs

#Gravitas | India's engagement with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan is starting to bear fruit. In a further effort to engage with India, the Taliban regime is undertaking policy efforts to return private land to displaced Hindu and Sikh minorities in the country.

Gravitas: Taliban Restores Land Illegally Taken by Warlords to Displaced Afghan Hindus and Sikhs

Pakistan will reportedly raise the issue of the alleged use of Afghan soil for&nbsp;the recent terrorist attacks targeting Chinese engineers with the Taliban following a probe pointing to a&nbsp;possible Afghan link in the matter.

Six people, including five Chinese engineers, were killed in a suicide attack in Besham, a remote area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on March 26. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack but a report in Pakistan's Express Tribune newspaper suggested that a network linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was behind the incident.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-set-to-discuss-trade-normalisation-in-kabul-talks-703881">Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks</a>

An explosive-laden vehicle parked on the roadside was blown up right when a convoy transporting Chinese engineers to the Dasu hydroelectric project site from Islamabad was passing by.&nbsp;

The March 26 attack was the second attack on Chinese workers at the same hydroelectric project. A similar terrorist attack killed 13 people, including nine engineers in July 2021.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan PM Sharif visits Chinese engineers working on Dam project in Dasu

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The report in the Express Tribune claimed that Pakistani authorities have made certain arrests based on the SIM card recovered from the suicide bomber, "who is thought to be an Afghan national".&nbsp;

It added that the car used in the terrorist attack was non-custom paid and smuggled into Pakistan through the Chaman border.&nbsp;

The report further added that people familiar with the development say that there is no doubt that Afghan soil was used in the attack on Chinese engineers. This is why, they say, Pakistan will take up the matter through diplomatic channels with Afghan authorities.

<h2>What would it mean?</h2>

If an Afghan link is established to the attack on the Chinese, it may mean the deterioration of ties between Beijing and Kabul.&nbsp;

China is the only country that has accepted a full-time Taliban-appointed ambassador, in an unprecedented recognition of Afghanistan's Taliban rulers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan will reportedly raise the issue of the alleged use of Afghan soil for the recent terrorist attacks targeting Chinese engineers with the Taliban following a probe pointing to a possible Afghan link in the matter.

Pakistan will reportedly raise the issue of the alleged use of Afghan soil for the recent terrorist attacks targeting Chinese engineers with the Taliban following a probe pointing to a possible Afghan link in the matter. Six people, including five Chinese engineers, were killed in a suicide attack in Besham, a remote area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on March 26. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack but a report in Pakistan's Express Tribune newspaper suggested that a network linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was behind the incident. Also read | Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks An explosive-laden vehicle parked on the roadside was blown up right when a convoy transporting Chinese engineers to the Dasu hydroelectric project site from Islamabad was passing by. The March 26 attack was the second attack on Chinese workers at the same hydroelectric project. A similar terrorist attack killed 13 people, including nine engineers in July 2021. Also watch | Pakistan PM Sharif visits Chinese engineers working on Dam project in Dasu × The report in the Express Tribune claimed that Pakistani authorities have made certain arrests based on the SIM card recovered from the suicide bomber, "who is thought to be an Afghan national". It added that the car used in the terrorist attack was non-custom paid and smuggled into Pakistan through the Chaman border. The report further added that people familiar with the development say that there is no doubt that Afghan soil was used in the attack on Chinese engineers. This is why, they say, Pakistan will take up the matter through diplomatic channels with Afghan authorities. What would it mean? If an Afghan link is established to the attack on the Chinese, it may mean the deterioration of ties between Beijing and Kabul. China is the only country that has accepted a full-time Taliban-appointed ambassador, in an unprecedented recognition of Afghanistan's Taliban rulers. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan to raise issue of Afghan soil being used for terror attacks with Taliban

Russia said on Tuesday it had important matters to discuss with Afghanistan's Taliban leaders and was working to remove the Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organizations. Watch in for more details!

Russia says it is working to remove Taliban from terror organisation list

Taliban’s supreme leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada has vowed to revive stoning women to death in public for crimes like adultery. According to Akhundzada, women’s rights as advocated by the international community are against the Taliban’s interpretation of Islamic sharia. All this and much more in Inside South Asia.

Taliban to stone women in public for adultery

Declaring a war against Western Democracy, the Taliban have&nbsp;announced that it will soon start stoning women to death for adultery.&nbsp;

The radical group's Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada vowed this in a voice message broadcast on state TV on Saturday (Mar 23).

<h2>Alarming declaration</h2>

Labelling Western human rights defenders 'representatives of the devil', Akhundzada&nbsp;made the alarming declaration that the group will implement harsh punishments — including being stoned to death — against women.

"You say it's a violation of women's rights when we stone them to death. But we will soon implement the punishment for adultery," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-set-to-discuss-trade-normalisation-in-kabul-talks-703881">Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks</a>

He defiantly stated that despite Western objections, the Taliban would "flog women in public. We will stone them to death in public."

"These are all against your democracy, but we will continue doing it," he said, adding that they were deemed necessary by the Taliban to uphold their interpretation of Islamic law.

"We both say we defend human rights—we do it as God's representative and you as the devil's," he declared in his harshest comments&nbsp;since taking over Kabul in August 2021.

<h2>Taliban 2.0</h2>

Akhundzada's remarks represent a stark departure from the more moderate image the "new" Taliban have&nbsp;sought to portray since seizing power in Afghanistan in 2021.&nbsp;

The announcement underscores the challenges faced by Afghan women under Taliban rule and raises concerns about the group's commitment to human rights.

In his voice message, Akhundzada said that the women's rights advocated by the "Westerners" were against the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic Sharia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-reckless-air-strikes-by-pakistan-that-killed-eight-including-women-and-children-701533">Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children</a>

"Do women want the rights that Westerners are talking about?" he asked.

"They are against Sharia and clerics’ opinions, the clerics who toppled Western democracy."

Emphasising that Taliban foot soldiers must oppose the West, he added, "I told the Mujahedin that we tell the Westerners that we fought against you for 20 years, and we will fight 20 and even more years against you."

"We will bring Sharia to this land," said the Taliban supreme leader, who had not been seen in public since the Taliban seized control of Kabul.

<h2>'Imprisoned' women</h2>

His remarks have incited outrage among women, who have called for increased pressure from the international community.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban: Afghan women will be stoned to death for adultery

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Talking to the Telegraph, Tala, a former civil servant, said: "The money that they receive from the international community as humanitarian aid is just feeding them against women."

Calling Afghanistan a "prison" that the Taliban are making "smaller…every passing day," she added, "I don’t feel safe and secure in Afghanistan."

"Each morning starts with a barrage of notices and orders imposing restrictions and stringent rules on women, stripping away even the smallest joys and extinguishing hope for a brighter future," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Declaring a war against Western Democracy, the Taliban have announced that it will soon start stoning women to death for adultery. The radical group's Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada vowed this in a voice message broadcast on state TV on Saturday (Mar 23).

Declaring a war against Western Democracy, the Taliban have announced that it will soon start stoning women to death for adultery. The radical group's Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada vowed this in a voice message broadcast on state TV on Saturday (Mar 23). Alarming declaration Labelling Western human rights defenders 'representatives of the devil', Akhundzada made the alarming declaration that the group will implement harsh punishments — including being stoned to death — against women. "You say it's a violation of women's rights when we stone them to death. But we will soon implement the punishment for adultery," he said. Also read | Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks He defiantly stated that despite Western objections, the Taliban would "flog women in public. We will stone them to death in public." "These are all against your democracy, but we will continue doing it," he said, adding that they were deemed necessary by the Taliban to uphold their interpretation of Islamic law. "We both say we defend human rights—we do it as God's representative and you as the devil's," he declared in his harshest comments since taking over Kabul in August 2021. Taliban 2.0 Akhundzada's remarks represent a stark departure from the more moderate image the "new" Taliban have sought to portray since seizing power in Afghanistan in 2021. The announcement underscores the challenges faced by Afghan women under Taliban rule and raises concerns about the group's commitment to human rights. In his voice message, Akhundzada said that the women's rights advocated by the "Westerners" were against the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic Sharia. Also read | Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children "Do women want the rights that Westerners are talking about?" he asked. "They are against Sharia and clerics’ opinions, the clerics who toppled Western democracy." Emphasising that Taliban foot soldiers must oppose the West, he added, "I told the Mujahedin that we tell the Westerners that we fought against you for 20 years, and we will fight 20 and even more years against you." "We will bring Sharia to this land," said the Taliban supreme leader, who had not been seen in public since the Taliban seized control of Kabul. 'Imprisoned' women His remarks have incited outrage among women, who have called for increased pressure from the international community. Watch | Taliban: Afghan women will be stoned to death for adultery Talking to the Telegraph, Tala, a former civil servant, said: "The money that they receive from the international community as humanitarian aid is just feeding them against women." Calling Afghanistan a "prison" that the Taliban are making "smaller…every passing day," she added, "I don’t feel safe and secure in Afghanistan." "Each morning starts with a barrage of notices and orders imposing restrictions and stringent rules on women, stripping away even the smallest joys and extinguishing hope for a brighter future," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban supreme leader says women will soon be stoned to death for adultery

Afghan women will be stoned to death for adultery, declares Taliban leader in new audio. Taliban’s supreme leader mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada purportedly vowed a harsh implementation of the Islamic code of Shariah.

Taliban: Afghan women will be stoned to death for adultery

Three people were killed and 12 others were injured in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan's Kandahar on Thursday (Mar 21). Speaking to the news agency AFP, Kandahar's Director of Information and Culture Inamullah Samangani said, "A suicide attack occurred in which three compatriots were killed and 12 others were wounded, according to preliminary information."

The explosion occurred at 8 am local time and targeted a group of people waiting outside the New Kabul Bank branch in central Kandahar city. "Commonly our compatriots gather there (at the bank branch) to collect their salaries," Samangani said, adding&nbsp;the victims were civilians.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-pakistan-launches-airstrikes-against-ttp-deep-inside-afghanistan-sources-tell-wion-701395">Exclusive: Pakistan launches airstrikes against TTP deep inside Afghanistan, sources tell WION</a>

No group claimed responsibility for the attack, but some reports suggested that the Islamic State was behind the suicide bombing. Taliban authorities surrounded the incident site and did not allow media persons close to it. Firefighters and security personnel were clearing the area, where blood, scraps of clothes and shoes littered the ground, AFP reported.

Samangani told the news agency that the situation was under control at one of the city's hospitals where the injured were transported. The official denied that a need for blood donations was urgent.

"There is no such issue, and the wounded people are not in serious condition, they have superficial injuries," he further said.&nbsp;

Multiple explosions have been reported&nbsp;across Afghanistan since the start of Ramadan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three people were killed and 12 others were injured in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan's Kandahar on Thursday (Mar 21). Speaking to the news agency AFP, Kandahar's Director of Information and Culture Inamullah Samangani said, "A suicide attack occurred in which three compatriots were killed and 12 others were wounded, according to preliminary information.

Three people were killed and 12 others were injured in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan's Kandahar on Thursday (Mar 21). Speaking to the news agency AFP, Kandahar's Director of Information and Culture Inamullah Samangani said, "A suicide attack occurred in which three compatriots were killed and 12 others were wounded, according to preliminary information." The explosion occurred at 8 am local time and targeted a group of people waiting outside the New Kabul Bank branch in central Kandahar city. "Commonly our compatriots gather there (at the bank branch) to collect their salaries," Samangani said, adding the victims were civilians. Also read | Exclusive: Pakistan launches airstrikes against TTP deep inside Afghanistan, sources tell WION No group claimed responsibility for the attack, but some reports suggested that the Islamic State was behind the suicide bombing. Taliban authorities surrounded the incident site and did not allow media persons close to it. Firefighters and security personnel were clearing the area, where blood, scraps of clothes and shoes littered the ground, AFP reported. Samangani told the news agency that the situation was under control at one of the city's hospitals where the injured were transported. The official denied that a need for blood donations was urgent. "There is no such issue, and the wounded people are not in serious condition, they have superficial injuries," he further said. Multiple explosions have been reported across Afghanistan since the start of Ramadan. (With inputs from agencies)

Three killed, 12 injured in suicide bombing in Afghanistan's Kandahar

The school year in Afghanistan started Wednesday but without girls whom the Taliban barred from attending classes beyond the sixth grade, making it the only country with restrictions on female education.

Afghanistan’s school year starts without girls

Afghanistan: Another academic year begins with no girls, no freedom for girls to dream

The top two former&nbsp;US generals who&nbsp;led the chaotic evacuation of US forces in Afghanistan as it fell to Taliban control in August 2021 squarely blamed the disastrous American exit on&nbsp;the Biden administration's inadequate planning and delayed orders. Earlier, the Biden administration had blamed its predecessor Trump administration, and their agreement with the Taliban for the disastrous exit of US forces from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The rare public testimony by the retired generals Mark Milley and Kenneth ‘Frank’ McKenzie Jr put out in public domain the&nbsp;discord and disagreements between the military leadership and the Biden administration during the final days of US' presence in Afghanistan.

<h2>US forces in Afghanistan were over three times short of adviced deployment</h2>

The US military had adviced maintaining a presence of at least 2,500 service members in Afghanistan to uphold stability in the wake of the Doha agreement that was signed between the Taliban and the United States.

General Milley told the US House Foreign Affairs Committee while referring to the situation in Afghanistan in the&nbsp;immediate days before August 14 when the Taliban took control of Kabul: "The Afghan security forces were collapsing in the various provincial capitals and although there were some still in and around Kabul, so the general situation at that point was 750 U.S. soldiers in-and-around the embassy."

These revelations contrast with an internal White House review, which cited constraints imposed by previous withdrawal agreements&nbsp;— such as the Trump-negotiated&nbsp;'Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan' signed between the United States and the Taliban in Doha — for the tumultuous&nbsp;Aug 14 withdrawal of the US forces.

Also watch |&nbsp;Top former US Generals testify on US troop's withdrawal from Afghanistan

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The review placed blame on the military, adding&nbsp;that top commanders had assured they had ample resources to handle the evacuation.

Thirteen US service members were killed in a suicide bombing at Kabul airport's Abbey Gate as the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. Taliban later said that a local Islamic State offshoot was responsible for the&nbsp;attack.

Thousands of Afghans and US citizens scrambled to board US military flights for evacuation amid the frenzy that took over Afghanistan as the Taliban displaced democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a>

Ultimately, over 130,000 civilians were rescued before the final US military aircraft departed.

"On August 14, the non-combatant evacuation operation decision was made by the Department of State," Milley recounted.

"But the State Department’s decision came too late. The fundamental mistake was the timing of the State Department – too slow and too late," he further said.

Milley, as the top highest-ranking military officer at the time, had advocated for maintaining a residual force to support Afghanistan's special forces and retain control of Bagram Air Base for critical leverage against Taliban advances.

(With inputs from agencies)

The top two former US generals who led the chaotic evacuation of US forces in Afghanistan as it fell to Taliban control in August 2021 squarely blamed the disastrous American exit on the Biden administration's inadequate planning and delayed orders.

The top two former US generals who led the chaotic evacuation of US forces in Afghanistan as it fell to Taliban control in August 2021 squarely blamed the disastrous American exit on the Biden administration's inadequate planning and delayed orders. Earlier, the Biden administration had blamed its predecessor Trump administration, and their agreement with the Taliban for the disastrous exit of US forces from Afghanistan. The rare public testimony by the retired generals Mark Milley and Kenneth ‘Frank’ McKenzie Jr put out in public domain the discord and disagreements between the military leadership and the Biden administration during the final days of US' presence in Afghanistan. US forces in Afghanistan were over three times short of adviced deployment The US military had adviced maintaining a presence of at least 2,500 service members in Afghanistan to uphold stability in the wake of the Doha agreement that was signed between the Taliban and the United States. General Milley told the US House Foreign Affairs Committee while referring to the situation in Afghanistan in the immediate days before August 14 when the Taliban took control of Kabul: "The Afghan security forces were collapsing in the various provincial capitals and although there were some still in and around Kabul, so the general situation at that point was 750 U.S. soldiers in-and-around the embassy." These revelations contrast with an internal White House review, which cited constraints imposed by previous withdrawal agreements — such as the Trump-negotiated 'Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan' signed between the United States and the Taliban in Doha — for the tumultuous Aug 14 withdrawal of the US forces. Also watch | Top former US Generals testify on US troop's withdrawal from Afghanistan × The review placed blame on the military, adding that top commanders had assured they had ample resources to handle the evacuation. Thirteen US service members were killed in a suicide bombing at Kabul airport's Abbey Gate as the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. Taliban later said that a local Islamic State offshoot was responsible for the attack. Thousands of Afghans and US citizens scrambled to board US military flights for evacuation amid the frenzy that took over Afghanistan as the Taliban displaced democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report Ultimately, over 130,000 civilians were rescued before the final US military aircraft departed. "On August 14, the non-combatant evacuation operation decision was made by the Department of State," Milley recounted. "But the State Department’s decision came too late. The fundamental mistake was the timing of the State Department – too slow and too late," he further said. Milley, as the top highest-ranking military officer at the time, had advocated for maintaining a residual force to support Afghanistan's special forces and retain control of Bagram Air Base for critical leverage against Taliban advances. (With inputs from agencies)

'Too little, too late': Ex-US generals point to Biden admin's failures for Kabul's quick fall to Taliban

Afghanistan's Taliban said on Monday that Pakistan carried out two airstrikes on its territory, killing five women and three children, and it fired heavy weapons at Pakistani forces along the border in retaliation.

Eight killed in Pakistan's two air strikes in Afghanistan: Taliban

Eight killed in Pakistan's two air strikes in Afghanistan, says Taliban

Taliban says it hit back at Pakistan after air strikes in Afghanistan

On Tuesday (March 19), Cricket Australia postponed their upcoming overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, in August, due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the country&nbsp;under Taliban rule. This is the third time that Australia have cancelled a bilateral series versus the Rashid Khan starrer Afghanistan since 2021. The Asian country has been under Taliban rule for almost three years now which has affected the cricketing relations between the two nations.&nbsp;

Since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Australia cancelled a one-off Test match&nbsp;in November 2021. In 2023,&nbsp;they withdrew from a three-match ODI series&nbsp;as well. It was set to be hosted by Afghanistan at a neutral venue, in the UAE.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-trouble-for-ms-dhonis-csk-mustafizur-rahman-stretchered-off-field-during-ban-sl-3rd-odi-701537">IPL 2024: Trouble for MS Dhoni's CSK! Mustafizur Rahman stretchered off field during Ban-SL 3rd ODI</a>

CA&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;announced that the decision to postpone the bilateral series came after talks with the Australian government. The board stated that the assessment from the Australian government is "that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan are getting worse".&nbsp;Notably, Afghanistan remain the only full member of the International Cricket Council without a women's team at the senior level.

A statement from CA read, "For this reason, we have maintained our previous position and will postpone the bilateral series against Afghanistan," a statement from the board read. It added, "CA continues its strong commitment to supporting participation by women and girls in cricket around the world and will continue to actively engage the International Cricket Council and work closely with the Afghanistan Cricket Board to determine what actions could be taken to support the resumption of bilateral matches in the future."

<h2>Australia vs Afghanistan -- An underrated rivalry!</h2>

Over the years, Afghanistan and Australia have been involved in some thrilling contests. In the 2022 T20 World Cup, Aaron Finch-led Australia survived a huge scare when they were up against the Afghans, in Adelaide, during their league&nbsp;match. Back then, the then defending champions Australia won by 4 runs in defence of 168/8. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, both sides squared off in match 39 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Despite Afghans posting a competitive 291-5, courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran's 129*, and reducing the Aussies to 91 for 7, Glenn Maxwell's 201 not out took the Pat Cummins-led side past the finish line for a three-wicket win.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (March 19), Cricket Australia postponed their upcoming overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, in August, due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the country under Taliban rule.

On Tuesday (March 19), Cricket Australia postponed their upcoming overseas T20I series versus Afghanistan, in August, due to concerns over the human rights of women and girls in the country under Taliban rule. This is the third time that Australia have cancelled a bilateral series versus the Rashid Khan starrer Afghanistan since 2021. The Asian country has been under Taliban rule for almost three years now which has affected the cricketing relations between the two nations. Since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Australia cancelled a one-off Test match in November 2021. In 2023, they withdrew from a three-match ODI series as well. It was set to be hosted by Afghanistan at a neutral venue, in the UAE. Also read: IPL 2024: Trouble for MS Dhoni's CSK! Mustafizur Rahman stretchered off field during Ban-SL 3rd ODI CA on Tuesday announced that the decision to postpone the bilateral series came after talks with the Australian government. The board stated that the assessment from the Australian government is "that conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan are getting worse". Notably, Afghanistan remain the only full member of the International Cricket Council without a women's team at the senior level. A statement from CA read, "For this reason, we have maintained our previous position and will postpone the bilateral series against Afghanistan," a statement from the board read. It added, "CA continues its strong commitment to supporting participation by women and girls in cricket around the world and will continue to actively engage the International Cricket Council and work closely with the Afghanistan Cricket Board to determine what actions could be taken to support the resumption of bilateral matches in the future." Australia vs Afghanistan -- An underrated rivalry! Over the years, Afghanistan and Australia have been involved in some thrilling contests. In the 2022 T20 World Cup, Aaron Finch-led Australia survived a huge scare when they were up against the Afghans, in Adelaide, during their league match. Back then, the then defending champions Australia won by 4 runs in defence of 168/8. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, both sides squared off in match 39 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Despite Afghans posting a competitive 291-5, courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran's 129*, and reducing the Aussies to 91 for 7, Glenn Maxwell's 201 not out took the Pat Cummins-led side past the finish line for a three-wicket win.

Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country

After Afghanistan accused Pakistan of killing 8 people in two cross-border air strikes, Islamabad confirmed carrying out an “intelligence-based anti-terrorist operations” inside the country. In response, the Taliban government claims to have fired at Pakistani troops along the border.

Gravitas: Pakistan carries out cross-border strikes inside Afghanistan | Taliban hits back

In the latest, the Taliban criticised the air strikes conducted by Pakistan, asserting that these attacks within Afghanistan resulted in the deaths of women and children. In other news, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations to Vladimir Putin for his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation. Additionally,&nbsp;Israeli forces launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-reckless-air-strikes-by-pakistan-that-killed-eight-including-women-and-children-701533">Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children</a>

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The Taliban on Monday (Mar 18) condemned the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-pakistan-launches-airstrikes-against-ttp-deep-inside-afghanistan-sources-tell-wion-701395">air strikes by Pakistan</a>, claiming that the attacks inside Afghanistan killed women and children. It also said that&nbsp;Afghanistan does not allow anyone to "compromise security" by using Afghan territory.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-congratulates-russian-president-vladimir-putin-on-his-re-election-701516">PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419290-succession-2024-03-18t175329009.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Mar 18) congratulated Vladimir Putin on his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/complaint-filed-against-pm-modi-over-use-of-iaf-helicopter-for-election-rally-what-do-rules-say-701572">Complaint filed against PM Modi over use of IAF helicopter for election rally. What do rules say?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419318-narendra-modi-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Saket Gokhale, an Indian Member of Parliament, on Monday (Mar 18) filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-launch-overnight-raid-at-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-several-casualties-reported-701387">Israeli forces launch raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital, several casualties reported</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419218-yearender-2023-51.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli forces launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex.&nbsp;Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid and said that troops were conducting a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-20-year-old-from-andhra-pradesh-killed-in-us-report-701495">A 20-year-old engineering student from India’s Andhra Pradesh killed in US: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419265-us-police.png?imwidth=400" />

Paruchuri Abhijit, who hailed from Burripalem of district Guntur in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, was murdered in the United States, media reported.&nbsp;

Massachusetts police found his body in a car in a forest.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old was studying engineering at Boston University and was allegedly killed by unidentified assailants.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charter-flight-carrying-30-us-citizens-arrives-in-miami-from-gang-violence-hit-haiti-701434">With only one hospital operating, Haiti's healthcare system collapses amid raging gang violence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419246-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

Haiti’s healthcare system is on the verge of collapse as gang violence has left no hope for the treatment of victims. According to media reports, several hospitals were set on fire and doctors murdered by gang members, while medical supplies were also snapped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-shopkeeper-attacked-alleges-asked-to-stop-bhajan-for-azaan-701539">WATCH: India shopkeeper attacked in Bengaluru, alleges ‘asked to stop bhajan for azaan’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419303-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-03-18t184116754.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In Bengaluru, a shopkeeper was attacked by a group of men as he was playing a bhajan dedicated to Lord Hanuman during the Islamic call to prayer, known as azaan. Three individuals were arrested in connection with the incident, which occurred in the city's Siddanna Layout area on Sunday (Mar 17).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-ji-twisting-shakti-remark-rahul-gandhi-clears-stance-on-pm-modis-jaan-ki-baazi-attack-701555">'Modi ji twisting 'Shakti' remark': Rahul Gandhi clears stance on PM Modi's 'jaan ki baazi' attack</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419312-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-03-18t192935793.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy on Monday (Mar 18) with his "Shakti" remarks during the closing ceremony of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Mumbai. With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections looming, Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly denounced Gandhi's comments. Responding to the backlash, Gandhi issued a clarification, blaming PM Modi for&nbsp;“twisting" his remarks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-delegation-to-head-to-doha-for-temporary-gaza-ceasefire-hostage-talks-reports-701290">Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/18/419159-yearender-2023-50.png?imwidth=400" />

An Israeli delegation is expected to head to Doha, Qatar on Monday (Mar 18) for indirect talks about a temporary truce in Gaza and the release of hostages held in the Palestinian enclave, reported the Israeli media. This comes after Israel’s security cabinet reportedly approved the dispatch of the delegation led by the head of Israeli intelligence the night prior.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uber-agrees-to-pay-178-million-settlement-to-australian-taxi-drivers-report-701318">Uber agrees to pay $178 million settlement to Australian taxi drivers: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/13/317890-2022-12-07t112737z2lynxmpeib60j5rtroptp4uber-autonomous-driving-motional.JPG?imwidth=400" />

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Uber, has reached a landmark settlement agreement to pay A$271.8 million (US$178 million) to resolve a class-action lawsuit brought by Australian taxi operators and drivers on Monday.<o:p></o:p>
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<div id="v-wionews-v0">According to Reuters, this settlement, described as the fifth-largest in Australia's legal history, marks the culmination of a protracted legal battle initiated in 2019.</div>
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In the latest, the Taliban criticised the air strikes conducted by Pakistan, asserting that these attacks within Afghanistan resulted in the deaths of women and children.

In the latest, the Taliban criticised the air strikes conducted by Pakistan, asserting that these attacks within Afghanistan resulted in the deaths of women and children. In other news, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations to Vladimir Putin for his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation. Additionally, Israeli forces launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital. Click on the headlines to read more. Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children The Taliban on Monday (Mar 18) condemned the air strikes by Pakistan, claiming that the attacks inside Afghanistan killed women and children. It also said that Afghanistan does not allow anyone to "compromise security" by using Afghan territory. PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Mar 18) congratulated Vladimir Putin on his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation. Complaint filed against PM Modi over use of IAF helicopter for election rally. What do rules say? Saket Gokhale, an Indian Member of Parliament, on Monday (Mar 18) filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Israeli forces launch raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital, several casualties reported Israeli forces launched an overnight raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire triggering panic inside the medical complex. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid and said that troops were conducting a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital. A 20-year-old engineering student from India’s Andhra Pradesh killed in US: Report Paruchuri Abhijit, who hailed from Burripalem of district Guntur in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, was murdered in the United States, media reported. Massachusetts police found his body in a car in a forest. The 20-year-old was studying engineering at Boston University and was allegedly killed by unidentified assailants. With only one hospital operating, Haiti's healthcare system collapses amid raging gang violence Haiti’s healthcare system is on the verge of collapse as gang violence has left no hope for the treatment of victims. According to media reports, several hospitals were set on fire and doctors murdered by gang members, while medical supplies were also snapped. WATCH: India shopkeeper attacked in Bengaluru, alleges ‘asked to stop bhajan for azaan’ In Bengaluru, a shopkeeper was attacked by a group of men as he was playing a bhajan dedicated to Lord Hanuman during the Islamic call to prayer, known as azaan. Three individuals were arrested in connection with the incident, which occurred in the city's Siddanna Layout area on Sunday (Mar 17). 'Modi ji twisting 'Shakti' remark': Rahul Gandhi clears stance on PM Modi's 'jaan ki baazi' attack Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy on Monday (Mar 18) with his "Shakti" remarks during the closing ceremony of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Mumbai. With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections looming, Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly denounced Gandhi's comments. Responding to the backlash, Gandhi issued a clarification, blaming PM Modi for “twisting" his remarks. Israeli delegation to head to Doha for temporary Gaza ceasefire, hostage release talks: Reports An Israeli delegation is expected to head to Doha, Qatar on Monday (Mar 18) for indirect talks about a temporary truce in Gaza and the release of hostages held in the Palestinian enclave, reported the Israeli media. This comes after Israel’s security cabinet reportedly approved the dispatch of the delegation led by the head of Israeli intelligence the night prior. Uber agrees to pay $178 million settlement to Australian taxi drivers: Report Uber, has reached a landmark settlement agreement to pay A$271.8 million (US$178 million) to resolve a class-action lawsuit brought by Australian taxi operators and drivers on Monday. According to Reuters, this settlement, described as the fifth-largest in Australia's legal history, marks the culmination of a protracted legal battle initiated in 2019.

Top 10 world news: Taliban slam Pak air strikes; Modi congratulates Putin on re-election, and more

The Taliban on Monday (Mar 18) condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-pakistan-launches-airstrikes-against-ttp-deep-inside-afghanistan-sources-tell-wion-701395">air strikes by Pakistan</a>, claiming that the attacks inside Afghanistan killed women and children. It also said that&nbsp;Afghanistan does not allow anyone to "compromise security" by using Afghan territory.&nbsp;

The Taliban called the strikes "reckless action" and a violation of Afghanistan's territory. In a statement Taliban claimed that its security forces targeted Pakistani troops at the border in response to the air strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zabihullah Mujahid, who is the spokesperson for the Taliban administration, released a statement, stating that Pakistan planes bombed the houses of civilians, which killed six people, including three women and three children.&nbsp;

The statement added that two women died after a house collapsed in the Khost province.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maldives-hold-third-high-level-core-group-meeting-review-deputation-of-indian-technical-personnel-701172">India and Maldives hold third high-level core group meeting, review deputation of Indian technical personnel</a>

Pakistan's government reportedly targeted the hideouts of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). In a statement, the Pakistani foreign office said Pakistan had carried out "intelligence-based anti-terrorist operations in the border regions inside Afghanistan".

However, it did not specify what kind of operations they were. Pakistan, however, said that they targeted members of the Hafiz Gulf Bahadur militant group after an attack on a military post in Pakistan on Saturday.&nbsp;

WION learned from sources that Islamabad apparently targeted the house of Abdullah Shah, one of the TTP commanders. But according to the Taliban, Shah is in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aseefa-bhutto-submits-nomination-papers-on-seat-vacated-by-father-asif-ali-zardari-for-bye-elections-701135">Aseefa Bhutto submits nomination papers for bye-polls on seat vacated by father Asif Ali Zardari</a>

The Taliban spokesperson added in the statement, "Pakistan shouldn't blame Afghanistan for the lack of control, incompetence, and problems in its own territory."&nbsp;

"Such incidents can have very bad consequences which will not be in Pakistan’s control," it added.&nbsp;

In an earlier statement, the Taliban had said that Pakistan's reconnaissance and fighter jets once again entered the territory of Afghanistan during an aggressive action, and bombed the houses of civilians in Paktika's Burmal and Khost Sepera districts.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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It added, "In response to this aggression, the border forces of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan targeted Pakistan’s military centres along the fictitious line with heavy weapons."&nbsp;

"‎The country's defence and security forces are ready to respond to any aggressive actions and will defend their territorial integrity in any situation," it added.&nbsp;

Both Pakistan and Afghanistan have traded blame over who is responsible for a recent rise in militant attacks in Pakistan. Islamabad claims that the attacks were launched from Afghan soil, but Kabul denies this.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Taliban on Monday (Mar 18) condemned the air strikes by Pakistan, claiming that the attacks inside Afghanistan killed women and children. It also said that Afghanistan does not allow anyone to "compromise security" by using Afghan territory.

The Taliban on Monday (Mar 18) condemned the air strikes by Pakistan, claiming that the attacks inside Afghanistan killed women and children. It also said that Afghanistan does not allow anyone to "compromise security" by using Afghan territory. The Taliban called the strikes "reckless action" and a violation of Afghanistan's territory. In a statement Taliban claimed that its security forces targeted Pakistani troops at the border in response to the air strikes. Zabihullah Mujahid, who is the spokesperson for the Taliban administration, released a statement, stating that Pakistan planes bombed the houses of civilians, which killed six people, including three women and three children. The statement added that two women died after a house collapsed in the Khost province. Also read: India and Maldives hold third high-level core group meeting, review deputation of Indian technical personnel Pakistan's government reportedly targeted the hideouts of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). In a statement, the Pakistani foreign office said Pakistan had carried out "intelligence-based anti-terrorist operations in the border regions inside Afghanistan". However, it did not specify what kind of operations they were. Pakistan, however, said that they targeted members of the Hafiz Gulf Bahadur militant group after an attack on a military post in Pakistan on Saturday. WION learned from sources that Islamabad apparently targeted the house of Abdullah Shah, one of the TTP commanders. But according to the Taliban, Shah is in Pakistan. Also read: Aseefa Bhutto submits nomination papers for bye-polls on seat vacated by father Asif Ali Zardari The Taliban spokesperson added in the statement, "Pakistan shouldn't blame Afghanistan for the lack of control, incompetence, and problems in its own territory." "Such incidents can have very bad consequences which will not be in Pakistan’s control," it added. In an earlier statement, the Taliban had said that Pakistan's reconnaissance and fighter jets once again entered the territory of Afghanistan during an aggressive action, and bombed the houses of civilians in Paktika's Burmal and Khost Sepera districts. Watch this report: × It added, "In response to this aggression, the border forces of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan targeted Pakistan’s military centres along the fictitious line with heavy weapons." "‎The country's defence and security forces are ready to respond to any aggressive actions and will defend their territorial integrity in any situation," it added. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan have traded blame over who is responsible for a recent rise in militant attacks in Pakistan. Islamabad claims that the attacks were launched from Afghan soil, but Kabul denies this. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children

Pakistan has launched airstrikes on TTP Pakistan hideouts deep inside Afghanistan in parts of Kunar and Paktika. This comes after at least seven Pakistan army soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel and captain, were killed on a military post in North Waziristan tribal district.

Pakistan launches airstrikes on TTP hideouts in Afghanistan

Pakistan strikes deep inside Afghanistan, 8 killed in Pakistan air strike: Taliban

Pakistan airstrikes target suspected Taliban hideouts in Afghanistan

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that&nbsp;both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.

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India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (<a href="https://twitter.com/deepti_jharwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deepti_jharwal</a>) on the Indian side. <a href="https://t.co/4cDuy2NyJs">pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1765773305548542147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7).&nbsp;

India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unexpected-snowfall-takes-several-lives-in-pakistan-afghanistan-northwest-indian-shivers-in-march-697135">Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March</a>

After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy.

India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost.&nbsp;

Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha.

Also watch |&nbsp;American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan

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Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption.

Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region".

Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students.

The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port.

While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group. India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (@deepti_jharwal) on the Indian side. pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 7, 2024 × JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7). India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting. Also read | Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy. India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost. Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha. Also watch | American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan × Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption. Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region". Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students. The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port. While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid. (With inputs from agencies)

India's senior diplomat meets Taliban representative in Kabul

Terror group Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant- Khorasan (ISIL-K) is reported to have sought and obtained weapons from the banned Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) stockpiles left in Afghanistan since the 2021 Taliban takeover, according to a UN report.

ISIL-K obtained weapons from TTP stockpiles left in Afghanistan since Taliban takeover: UN report

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