Xi stresses improving biosecurity risk control, management system: Xinhuanet
September 29, 2021
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, has stressed efforts to improve the country’s risk control and management system on biosecurity, and to enhance its governance capacity in this regard. Xi made the remarks on Wednesday when addressing a study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee. Click here to read
China donates emergency supplies to Afghanistan: Xinhuanet
September 30, 2021
A batch of emergency supplies donated by China arrived at Afghanistan’s Kabul International Airport on Wednesday night and was handed over to the Afghan side. Chinese Ambassador to Afghanistan Wang Yu and acting minister of refugee affairs of the Afghan caretaker government Khalil-ur-Rehman Haqqani attended the handover ceremony at the airportClick here to read
China to tighten regulation of algorithms related to internet information services: Xinhuanet
September 29, 2021
Chinese regulators will strengthen the management of algorithms related to internet information services to foster “healthy” and “orderly” development of the industry.
A three-year campaign will seek to put in place a sound management mechanism and supervision system, and a standardized algorithm ecosystem, according to new guidelines issued by nine ministries or departments including the Cyberspace Administration of China. Click here to read
Hong Kong legislature passes amendments to national flag, national emblem bill: Xinhuanet
September 29, 2021
Hong Kong’s legislature passed amendments to the national flag and national emblem bill on Wednesday. The National Flag and National Emblem (Amendment) Bill 2021 was approved in its third reading by the Legislative Council (LegCo) of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). It was introduced to the LegCo on Aug. 18 for first and second readings. Click here to read
China and Bangladesh have discussed on how to promote the healthy development of economic and trade cooperation between the two countries in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era. The two sides had the discussions at the China-Bangladesh Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum 2021 and the inauguration of the Seventh Council of Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) which were held virtually on Tuesday. Click here to read
Hong Kong’s finance chief presents petition to wind up Jimmy Lai’s Next Digital Ltd: People’s Daily
September 30, 2021
Paul Chan, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, has presented a petition to the Court of First Instance to wind up Next Digital Limited, a company controlled by Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, an instigator of Hong Kong riots. The financial secretary is empowered to do so for the public interest, according to Hong Kong’s Companies Ordinance. Click here to read
New Party chiefs of Anhui, Shandong appointed: China Daily
September 30, 2021
Zheng Shanjie has been appointed secretary of the Anhui Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), replacing Li Jinbin, according to a decision from the CPC Central Committee published Thursday. Li Ganjie has been appointed secretary of the CPC Shandong Provincial Committee, replacing Liu Jiayi, according to the decision. Click here to read
Central bank, banking regulator urge financial institutions to ensure stable housing market: Global Times
September 30, 2021
China’s central bank and the banking regulator have emphasized the importance of a prudent real estate finance management system to achieve the goal of stabilizing home prices amid a debt crisis that overshadows one of the country’s largest property developers. At a meeting held on Wednesday with executives from 24 major banks across the country, regulators said that the prudent real estate financing management system has played an active role in serving the real economy, boosting economic transformation and the stable and sound development of the real estate industry on the principle that “houses are for living in, not for speculation.” Click here to read
US, Chinese militaries hold 2 days of talks, stress the need for more: South China Morning Post
September 30, 2021
The US and Chinese militaries have concluded two days of high-level talks that stressed the need to maintain communication, after resuming defence dialogue in August for the first time since Joe Biden entered the White House. Speaking in the defence policy coordination discussions, held by video conference on Tuesday and Wednesday, were Michael Chase, the US’ deputy assistant secretary of defence for China, and Huang Xueping, deputy director for the Chinese military’s Office for International Military Cooperation. Click here to read
China defends role in Covid-19 origins hunt as pressure mounts for more research: South China Morning Post
September 29, 2021
China has sought to defend its cooperation with the World Health Organization in the search for the origins of Covid-19, releasing a summary of its actions so far. The report, published by state news agency Xinhua, comes as the WHO and world leaders press China to help with further research in the origins hunt and a deadline looms for appointments to a group to drive that work. On Wednesday, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus repeated his call for a second phase of research – with China’s cooperation – to start “as soon as possible”. Click here to read
China hidden local government debt rises to over half of GDP at US$8.2 trillion, Goldman Sachs report says: South China Morning Post
September 29, 2021
China’s hidden local government debt has swollen to more than half the size of the economy, according to economists at Goldman Sachs, who said the government will need to be flexible in dealing with this as revenue is already under pressure due to a slowdown in land sales. The total debt of local government financing vehicles (LGFVs) rose to around 53 trillion yuan (US$8.2 trillion) at the end of last year from 16 trillion yuan in 2013, the economists wrote in a report. That is equal to around 52 per cent of gross domestic product and is larger than amount of official outstanding government debt. Click here to read
China power crisis hammers SMEs as firms upend production, workers ‘dozing off’: South China Morning Post
September 29, 2021
China’s army of small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMEs) have been hit hard by the nationwide power crisis, with outputs slashed and sweltering working conditions taking their toll, while panic buying of raw materials and goods is becoming commonplace over fears prices are set to soar. Some producers are stockpiling inventory or buying equipment that uses less power, with Chinese media reporting on Tuesday that at least 20 out of 31 provincial jurisdictions have rolled out electricity-rationing measures in recent weeks, crippling businesses and households. Click here to read
Access to website dedicated to Tiananmen victims appears restricted in Hong Kong: Reuters
September 30, 2021
Access to an online museum dedicated to the victims of China’s 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in and around Beijing’s Tiananmen Square appeared to be restricted in Hong Kong, with the website accusing authorities of censorship.The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, the organisers of annual June 4 vigils in the global financial hub, announced the opening of https://8964museum.com/ last month. The website operated independently from the Alliance, it said.Click here to read
Efforts to Continue Former Govt Are Useless: Samangani: Tolo News
The Ministry of the Information and Culture on Wednesday reacted to a statement by a number of officials of the former government–who claim to be continuing the work of the former government–saying their efforts are meaningless.Click here to read…
ICC Prosecutor Will Not Focus on US Forces in New Probe: Tolo News
The International Criminal Court prosecutor on Monday said he is seeking approval to resume a war crimes investigation of Afghanistan, focusing on the actions of the Taliban and Daesh militia. Click here to read…
China’s humanitarian aid arrives in Kabul: The Khaama Press
The first consignment of humanitarian aids arrived from China to Kabul on Wednesday, September 29, and was submitted to the acting minister of the refugees and repatriates Khalil-ur Rahaman Haqqani. Click here to read…
India, Turkey, Uzbekistan to resume flights to Kabul: The Khaama Press
International Radar has reported one flight from New Delhi, Istanbul, and Tashkent each to land in Kabul International Airport on Thursday, September 30. Click here to read…
20-war in Afghanistan was a strategic failure, 2,500 troops should have been kept: Milley: The Khaama Press
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the US General Mark Milley said that their 20-year presence was their strategic failure and his personal opinion was to have 2,500 troops in Afghanistan. Click here to read…
Bangladesh
Rohingya leader Mohibullah shot dead- Daily Star
Unidentified criminals shot Rohingya rights activist and leader Mohibullah dead at his office in Kutupalong camp under Cox’s Bazar’s Ukhia upazila last night. Click here to read…
Mohibullah’s death undermines Rohingyas’ chances of safe return to Myanmar: HRW- Daily Star
Following the shooting to death of Rohingya rights activist and leader Mohibullah last night, Human Rights Watch issued a statement lamenting the loss of a defender of a people. Click here to read…
China lets US siblings return home- Daily Star
An American brother and sister barred from exiting China since 2018 in an apparent bid to pressure their father to return and face criminal allegations have finally left the country, Beijing and Washington confirmed yesterday. Click here to read…
Will Kallyanpur Pond solve Dhaka’s waterlogging problem?- Dhaka Tribune
The project is expected to be sustainable both financially and in terms of maintenanceClick here to read…
Govt mulling mechanization to boost jute production- Dhaka Tribune
The prospect of mechanization is giving new hope to the country’s jute industry, experts have said. Click here to read…
‘GDP growth rate will be restored by end of FY22’- Dhaka Tribune
State Minister Dr Shamsul Alam said that the ‘GDP growth rate will be restored by end of FY22’. Click here to read…
Finance Minister for merging BASIC & Padma Bank- Asian Age
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has opined that BASIC Bank and Padma Bank should be merged with each other. Click here to read…
Take lessons from PM’s honesty, ideology- Asian Age
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has urges all to take lessons from the honesty and ideology of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, worthy daughter of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Click here to read…
17 new deaths 1,178 cases- Asian Age
Bangladesh reported 17 new fatalities and 1,178 cases in 24 hours till 8am on Wednesday. Click here to read…
PM Hasina opens “Bangladesh House” in USA’s Maryland- The Observer
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is now in Washington DC, inaugurated the newly constructed “Bangladesh House” at Maryland in the USA. Click here to read…
People won’t respond to BNP’s call of movement, says Quader- The Observer
Sheikh Russel Jatiya Shishu-Kishore Parishad arranged the discussion and educational equipment distribution ceremony, marking the 75th birthday of AL President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Click here to read…
Bangabandhu-Bapu digital exhibition begins at BSA- The Observer
The Bangabandhu-Bapu digital exhibition was opened for public viewing at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) on Saturday. Click here to read…
Biman’s Medina, Kuwait, Kathmandu flights resume in October- Independent
Biman Bangladesh Airlines will resume its direct flights from Dhaka to three popular destinations from October. Click here to read…
Bhutan
Police investigating sexual harassment case at the Royal Tutorial Project- Kuensel
Sources said the police investigation has involved message retrieval from phones. “The case might be forwarded to court soon,” a source said. Click here to read…
PM underscores the importance of investing in health- Kuensel
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly virtually from Thimphu on September 25, Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering said the pandemic underlined the importance of investing in public health. Click here to read…
Bhutan begins efforts to become a model ecotourism destination- Kuensel
The Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) launched “Mainstreaming Biodiversity Conservation into the Tourism Sector in Bhutan”, a new project with the beginning of a three-day inception workshop in Trashigang on September 27. Click here to read…
Streamlining donation drives and crowdfunding- DLO-BBS
To ensure that donation drives and crowdfunding are genuine, the department of law and order has now put in place certain requirements. Click here to read…
Bhutan receives three fire-fighting and two utility vehicles from Japan-
To ensure that donation drives and crowdfunding are genuine, the department of law and order has now put in place certain requirements. Click here to read…
Maldives
Italy gives green light to travel to the Maldives – Avas
Italy has removed the Maldives from its list of countries to which travel is restricted. Italians will now be allowed to travel to the Maldives without the need for quarantine either on arrival or return. In addition to Maldives, Italians can travel to Seychelles, Mauritius, Egypt, Dominican Republic and Aruba from outside EU. Click here to read…
Bilehfahi Harbour project progressing well: MTCC – Avas
Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has said the construction of Sh. Bilehfahi Harbour is ongoing at a fast pace. Click here to read…
President arrives in the Maldives after concluding visit to New York – Avas
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in the Maldives Tuesday morning after concluding the trip to New York City, United States, to attend the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Click here to read…
The climate change dilemma facing Maldives, Mauritius and other tourism-dependent small island nations: their livelihoods or their lives? – South China Monitoring post
Come visit the Maldives, its president entreated the world at this year’s United Nations General Assembly, moments before switching to an impassioned plea for help combating climate change. Click here to read…
Myanmar
Myanmar Junta Accused of Targeting Civilians with Landmines – The Irrawaddy
Myanmar’s junta is laying landmines in residential areas while it conducts raids on civilian resistance forces in Kayah State. Click here to read…
Myanmar Junta Crony Plays Key Role in Arms Purchases From Ukraine – The Irrawaddy
Myanmar’s crony league welcomed new members when current coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing succeeded former dictator Senior General Than Shwe as the military chief in 2011, with relatives and business associates of newly promoted generals joining the elite. Click here to read…
Myanmar’s Currency Hits Record Low as Coup Wreaks Havoc on Economy – The Irrawaddy
Almost eight months after the military coup, Myanmar’s currency depreciated to a record low this week, prompting fears of worsening social and economic instability in the country, which has been devastated by the takeover. Click here to read…
Myanmar on a military-made road to disaster – Asia Times
What began as carnival-like protests against Myanmar’s military takeover on February 1 has since morphed into a vicious nationwide insurgency that has hit areas of the nation that had seen no armed confrontations between rebels and state forces for decades. Click here to read…
Nepal
How Madhesh-based parties are using constitution amendment as a political weapon- Nepal Live Today
Six years after the promulgation, Madhesh-based political parties have continued to oppose the constitution while joining the governments whenever they like. Click here to read…
PM Calls All-Party Meet Today for Smooth House Proceedings- The Rising Nepal
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has called an all-party meeting on Thursday to remove obstructions in the parliamentary session. Click here to read…
Speaker Sapkota likely to read out letter of repeal of the ‘party-split’ ordinance in today’s House session- Republica
Speaker Agni Sapkota is likely to read out a letter of repeal of the ordinance related to the political party. Click here to read…
Beginning of the end of the Gorkha Empire (Part I)- Nepali Times
The Gorkha Empire was on a warpath, and the British East India Company saw it as a threat to its own expansionist ambitions. Click here to read…
No law on oath raises questions over rulers’ adherence to rule of law- TKP
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba is working to give full shape to his Cabinet within a few days after a major obstruction to his bid to expand the Council of Ministers ended with the repealment of the ordinance on political parties on Tuesday. Click here to read…
Active caseload drops to 18193 as death toll shifts to 11123- Himalaya
Nepal’s coronavirus caseload reached 794,163 on Wednesday with 892 more people testing positive for the infection in the past 24 hours. Click here to read…
First casualty of the season on Manaslu as Canadian climber dies above 7,000m- Himalaya
Mt Manaslu recorded the season’s first casualty as a Canadian climber died while ascending the mountain, sources said. Click here to read…
Pakistan
Most loans under CPEC at commercial rates: report: Dawn
Shedding light on Beijing’s global development programme, the report said Chinese loans under CPEC constitute 95.2 per cent and 73pc of total commitments in energy and transport sectors, respectively. Click here to read…
Alarm over anti-Pakistan bill moved in US Senate: Dawn
The bill moved in the US Senate seeking to assess Pakistan’s alleged role in Afghanistan before and after the fall of Kabul to Afghan Taliban set alarm bells ringing in the upper house of parliament on Wednesday. Click here to read…
Pakistan denies providing military support to Taliban: The Express Tribune
Reacting to a bill seeking imposition of sanctions on the Afghan Taliban that could also potentially extend to Pakistan in US Senate, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Wednesday said that the country did not provide any military support to the Taliban. Click here to read…
A dollar is now fetching Rs172: The News
The rupee hit an all-time low against the dollar on Wednesday as investors evaluated political and economic risk from upcoming IMF reviews on the bailout package. Click here to read…
FIA to probe road projects of PMLN era: PM Imran Khan: The News
Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday said that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been given the responsibility to investigate the money spent on roads construction during the PMLN era. Click here to read…
Pakistan, Russia to strengthen military ties: Dawn
The agreement was reached during the third round of Russia-Pakistan Joint Military Consultative Committee (JMCC) meetings held here. Click here to read…
Keywords
Afghanistan, Afghan Government in Exile, International Criminal Court, China Aid, Kallyanpul Pond, Bhutan, Bhutan Jute Production, Bangladesh, Bangladesh GDP, COVID-19, Sheikh Hasina, BNP, Royal Tutorial Project, Ecotourism, Fire-Fighting Vehicles, Japan-Bangladesh, Maldives, Maldives in UN, Climate Change, Myanmar, Military Junta, Nepal, Nepal Constitution, Constitution Amendment, Gorkha Empire, CPEC, BRI, Pakistan, Pakistan-Russia
India and Russia discussed bilateral cooperation on security issues.
Africa
Nigeria
Around 6,000 Boko Haram terrorists have surrendered in last few weeks: claimed Nigerian armed forces.
Afghanistan
“Al-Qa’ida will rebuild in Afghanistan,” said CIA’s former Dy. Director Morell.
“Al-Qa’ida may seek a comeback in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan,” said the US Defense Secretary Austin.
“The UN must not give recognition to Taliban-led government in Afghanistan,” said Afghan envoy to the UN.
Pakistan
“Pakistan is involved in harbouring Taliban and the Haqqanis,” said the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Pakistan continues to develop culture of violence, claimed India at the UN.
DOMESTIC TERRORISM
Jammu and Kashmir
NH-44 is high on target of JeM and LeT: warned intelligence agencies.
Security forces arrested a HM terrorist from Pulwama district.
Pakistan’s ISI exporting IS-KP operatives to PoK for a major attack in Kashmir, claimed intelligence reports.
Left-Wing Extremism
In 2020, Maoist violence highest in Chhattisgarh: NCRB data.
Police arrested senior Maoist leader from Odisha.
52 Maoists, including sympathisers, surrendered in Telangana.
Islamic Extremism
NIA filed charge-sheet against three IS operatives in Kerala module case.
NIA filed charge-sheet against an IS operative in ‘al-Hind Bengaluru module’ case.
Khalistan-inspired Extremism
NIA Special Court framed charges against eight KLF terrorists in connection to killing of Comrade Balwinder Singh Sandhu, SC awardee.
North-East Region Insurgency
NIA filed charge-sheet against five ULFA-I operatives in 2019 Grenade Blast case.
CYBER, INFORMATION WARFARE & AI (SECURITY PERSPECTIVE)
“Cyber-attacks increasingly targeting Australia’s Critical National Infrastructure”, claimed ACSC.
Indian start-up firm comes up with a device to prevent cyber-attacks.
US keen to collaborate with Telangana State government in cyber security.
Defence
Indian army to participate in multi-lateral exercise Zapad 2021 in Russia
A 200 personnel contingent of Indian Army is participating in Exercise ZAPAD 2021, a Multi Nation exercise being held at Nizhniy, Russia from 03 to 16 September 2021. ZAPAD 2021 is one of the theatre level exercises of Russian Armed Forces and will focus primarily on operations against terrorists. Over a dozen countries from Eurasian and South Asian Region will participate in this signature event. The NAGA Battalion group participating in the exercise will feature an all Arms combined task force. The exercise aims to enhance military and strategic ties amongst the participating nations while they plan & execute this exercise.
Kazakhstan joint military exercise Kazind-21
The India – Kazakhstan joint military exercise “KAZIND-21” commenced on 01 Sep 2021 at training node Aisha Bibi, Kazakhstan. This is the 5th Edition of Annual bilateral joint exercise of both Armies and will continue till 10th September 2021. The fourth edition of the exercise was held at Pithoragarh, India in Sep 2019. The contingent comprises 120 troops from Kazakhstan and 90 soldiers from the Indian Army. Both the contingents will share their expertise and skills in the field of counter terror operations. The exercise will culminate in a 48 hours joint validation exercise scheduled on 08 & 09 September 2021. Click here to read…
India & US sign project agreement for air-launched unmanned aerial vehicle
Ministry of Defence and US Department of Defence signed a Project Agreement (PA) for Air-Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (ALUAV) under the Joint Working Group Air Systems in the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) on July 30, 2021. The PA for ALUAV falls under the Research, Development, Testing and Evaluation (RDT&E) Memorandum of Agreement between Ministry of Defence and US Department of Defence, which was first signed in January 2006 and renewed in January 2015. The agreement is a significant step towards deepening defence technology collaboration between the two nations through co-development of defence equipment. Click here to read…
Pacific Air Chiefs’ symposium 2021
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) attended the Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium 2021 (PACS-21) at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii from 30 Aug to 02 Sep 21. The event themed “Enduring Cooperation towards Regional Stability” was attended by Air Chiefs from countries in the Indo-Pacific region. CAS was nominated as the Dean for the Symposium.
The Symposium saw deliberations through panel discussions, table top exercises and keynote addresses on topics ranging from aspects of Regional Security and the significance of Air Domain Awareness, to cooperation amongst Air Forces for Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operations.In addition to participation in the symposium, CAS met General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force and General Kenneth S. Wilsbach, Commander, Pacific Air Forces. He also held bilateral and multilateral meetings on defence cooperation and security with Air Chiefs from eleven other countries. Click here to read…
28th edition of Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX)
The 28th edition of Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) was conducted from 02 to 04 Sep 21.The Indian Navy, Singapore Navy participated with their ships and four F-16 fighter aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) also participated in the exercise during the Air Defence Drills. Click here to read…
Royal Australian Navy and Indian Navy commence bilateral exercise – ‘Ausindex’
The Indian Navy Task Group participated in the 4th edition of AUSINDEX from 06 to 10 Sep 21. Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac Class Frigate, HMAS Warramunga which participated in Exercise MALABAR along with the IN units is also part of the exercise. This edition of AUSINDEX includes complex surface, sub-surface and air operations between ships, submarines, helicopters and Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft of the participating Navies.
The participating Indian Naval Ships Shivalik and Kadmatt are the latest indigenously designed and built Guided Missile Stealth Frigate and Anti-Submarine Corvette respectively.
The exercise is a true representation of Joint Guidance signed by the Chief of the Naval Staff, IN and Chief of Navy, RAN on 18 Aug 21. This important document is aligned to the ‘2020 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ between the two nations and aims to further consolidate shared commitment to regional and global security challenges promoting peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Click here to read…
Delegation of Financial powers to Armed Forces for Revenue Procurement
Raksha Mantri released in New Delhi on September 07, 2021 order on Delegation of Financial Powers to Defence Services (DFPDS) 2021, providing enhanced delegation of Revenue Procurement powers to the Armed Forces. The DFPDS 2021 aims to empower field formations; focus on operational preparedness; promote ease of doing business and enhance jointness among the Services.
The enhanced delegation of Financial Powers to functionaries in Service Headquarters and lower formations would result in quicker decision making at all levels leading to better planning and operational preparedness of the Services in a quicker time frame and optimum utilisation of resources. Some of the highlights are:-
Financial powers devolved to field formations; focus on operational preparedness; promote ease of doing business & jointness among Services
Two times general enhancement for Competent Financial Authorities; Up to 5-10 times at field formations in certain Schedules
10% increase in Delegated Financial Powers of Vice Chiefs of Services
Up to three times increase in Schedules related to Indigenisation/R&D to achieve ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’
Enabling provision of Emergency Financial Powers to Field formations below Command level for Defence Services incorporated in Emergency Powers Schedule for ops immediate military necessities
Cabinet approves procurement of 56 C-295MW transport aircraft for Indian Air Force
Today, Cabinet Committee on Security approved the procurement of fifty six C-295MW transport aircraft from M/s Airbus Defence and Space S.A., Spain for the Indian Air Force. C-295MW aircraft is a transport aircraft of 5-10 Tonne capacity with contemporary technology that will replace the ageing Avro aircraft of IAF. Sixteen aircraft will be delivered in flyaway condition from Spain within 48 months of signing of the contract and forty aircraft will be manufactured in India by TATA Consortium within ten years of signing of the contract. Click here to read…
Inauguration of emergency landing facility
The Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) was inaugurated for the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Satta-Gandhav stretch on NH-925A near Barmer, Rajasthan on September 09, 2021. Two Union Ministers travelled to Barmer on C-130J aircraft to inaugurate the facility. They also witnessed aircraft operations on the ELF, which has been constructed in just 19 months by M/S GHV India Pvt. Ltd. under the supervision of IAF and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). This is the first time that a National Highway has been used for emergency landing of aircraft of Indian Air Force. This landing strip will be able to facilitate landing of all types of IAF aircraft. Click here to read…
DRDO hands over air defence missile (MRSAM) System to Indian Air Force
First deliverable Firing Unit (FU) of Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) System was handed over to Indian Air Force (IAF) in the presence of Raksha Mantri at Air Force Station, Jaisalmer in Rajasthan on September 09, 2021. The MRSAM (IAF) is an advanced network centric combat Air Defence System developed jointly by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in collaboration with the Indian industry comprising of private and public sectors including MSMEs.
Key Highlights:
MRSAM provides air defence against aerial threats like fighter aircraft, UAVs, guided and unguided munitions & cruise missiles
Capable of engaging multiple targets at ranges up to 70 kilometres
Indigenously developed rocket motor & control system for achieving high manoeuvrability
State-of-the-art missile system
First India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue
India hosted the inaugural India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on 11 September 2021 in New Delhi. H.E. Ms. Marise Payne, Foreign Minister, and H.E. Mr. Peter Dutton, Defence Minister, of Australia were visiting India on 10-12 September 2021 to take part in the Dialogue. From the Indian side, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar lead the delegation which comprised of officials from the Ministries of Defence and External Affairs. The inaugural 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue is being held pursuant to the elevation of India-Australia bilateral relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the India-Australia Leaders’ Virtual Summit on 04 June 2020. The agenda for the Dialogue covered a range of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest. The RM in his interaction with the Australian Defence Minister highlighted the following issues in his address.
Wide-ranging discussions on bilateral defence cooperation as well as regional issues
Both sides agree to work jointly to realise full potential of India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
Partnership based on shared vision of free, open, inclusive and rule-based Indo-Pacific region
Military engagements to be expanded
Australian industry invited to take advantage of India’s liberalised FDI policies
India–Africa Defence Dialogue to be held alongside every Def Expo
India proposes to institutionalise the India Africa Defence Dialogue during successive Def Expos to be held once every two years. Institutionalisation of the India Africa Defence Dialogue will help building on the existing partnerships between African countries & India and to explore new areas of convergence for mutual engagements including areas like capacity building, training, cyber security, maritime security and counter terrorism.
It has been decided that Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses shall be the knowledge partner of India Africa Defence Dialogue and will assist in providing necessary support for enhanced defence cooperation between India and Africa. It has also been decided that Raksha Mantri will host the Defence Ministers of African Nations in the next India – Africa Defence Dialogue on the sidelines of the Def Expo that is scheduled to be held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat in March 2022. The broad theme of this India Africa Defence Dialogue will be ‘India – Africa: Adopting Strategy for Synergizing and Strengthening Defence and Security Cooperation’.
6th edition of Exercise “Peaceful Mission”
Joint Counter Terrorism Exercise PEACEFUL MISSION is a Multilateral Exercise, which is conducted biennially as part of military diplomacy between Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states. The 6th edition of Exercise PEACEFUL MISSION is being hosted by Russia in the Orenburg Region of South West Russia from 13 to 25 September 2021. The aim of the exercise is to foster close relations between SCO member states and to enhance abilities of the military leaders to command multi-national military contingents.
The Indian military contingent comprising of an all arms combined force of 200 personnel to include 38 personnel from the Indian Air Force is participating in the Exercise PEACEFUL MISSION -2021. The Indian contingent was inducted to the exercise area by two IL-76 aircrafts. Click here to read…
Raksha Mantri (RM) addresses the 18th India-US Economic Summit
Delivering the inaugural address at the 18th India-US Economic Summit, on the theme ‘Bouncing Back – Resilient Recovery Path Post COVID-19’ organised by Indo-American Chamber of Commerce through video conferencing on September 15, 2021. The RM highlighted the defence sector as an integral part of not just the security but overall growth of the country, RM stated the initiatives taken by the Government have transformed India into a strong and reliable investment destination. He said, India is now home to stable and secure government which focuses on economic growth through series of reforms. He added that robust domestic demand and availability of talented young work force & innovation make India a major investment destination.
The RM called upon the industry leaders to focus on transfer of technology through joint ventures to realise the country’s true potential in defence sector. The foreign OEMs can set up manufacturing facilities individually or partner with Indian companies through a JV or technology agreement to capitalise on the ‘Make in India’ initiative, he added. The RM exhorted them to begin the process of Research and Development with the young minds of the country which will increase the linkages among the industries and create an ecosystem through equal contribution from academia and research.
The RM emphasised that there is a lot of scope for the American and Indian defence Industries for co-production and co-development, adding that Indian industry can supply components to American Industries. Click here to read…
INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM
India and Russia discussed bilateral cooperation on security issues
On 08 September 2021, India’s National Security Adviser (NSA)— Ajit Doval and Russia’s Secretary of the Security Council— Nikolai Patrushev met in New Delhi and discussed deepening the bilateral cooperation on security issues and intensifying the joint efforts on special services and military establishments, with emphasis on anti-terror track, combating illegal migration and narcotics trafficking.
The humanitarian and migration crisis in Afghanistan, including the prospects for the India-Russia joint efforts for creating the launch of peaceful settlement process on the basis of an intra-Afghan dialogue was also discussed. Click here to read…
Africa
Nigeria
Around 6,000 Boko Haram terrorists have surrendered in last few weeks: claimed Nigerian armed forces
In a statement released on 02 September 2021, the Nigerian armed forces informed that in last few weeks, more than 5,860 Boko Haram terrorists, including commanders, have surrendered with their families in the North-East zone. “Out of surrendered terrorists, 565 had been handed over to the government of North-Eastern Borno State for further management after thorough profiling”, said Spokesperson for the Nigerian armed forces— Brigadier General Bernard Onyeuko. Click here to read…
Afghanistan
“Al-Qa’ida will rebuild in Afghanistan,” said CIA’s former Dy. Director Morell
Addressing an online forum hosted by the United States (US) Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Virginia on 08 September, the former Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)—Michael Morell emphasised that the Taliban will provide safe-haven to al-Qa’ida and the latter intent to build its capability to attack the US at home. “Counter-terrorism efforts fall into a pattern in which their (al-Qa’ida’s) capabilities can be easily degraded by a focused effort, but easily rebuilds when the focus fades,” said Morell. Click here to read…
“Al-Qa’ida may seek a comeback in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan,” said the US Defense Secretary Austin
On 09 September 2021, the United States (US) Secretary of Defense— Llyod Austin said that the al-Qa’ida group that used Afghanistan as a staging base to attack the US 20 years ago, may attempt to regenerate there following the US withdrawal that has left the Taliban in power. “We have put the Taliban on notice that we expect them to not allow that happen”, Secretary of State Austin said, referring to the possibility of al-Qa’ida using Afghanistan as a staging base in the future. Click here to read…
“The UN must not give recognition to Taliban-led government in Afghanistan,” said Afghan envoy to the UN
On 09 September 2021, the Afghanistan Ambassador to the United Nations (UN)— Ghulam Isaczai urged that the UN should not recognise “caretaker” government formed by the Taliban which overthrew the democratically elected government in mid-August this year. “I….ask you [the UN] to withhold any recognition of any government in Afghanistan, unless it is truly inclusive and formed on the basis of the free will of the people,” said Ambassador Isaczai. Click here to read…
Pakistan
“Pakistan is involved in harbouring Taliban and the Haqqanis,” said the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken
Speaking at the House Foreign Affairs Committee on 13 September 2021, the United States (US) Secretary of State—Antony Blinken said that Pakistan has harboured the members of the Taliban, including terrorists of Haqqani Network (HQN), and needs to “line-up” with a broad majority of the international community regarding Afghanistan.
Pakistan has denied its deep ties with the Taliban and has been accused of supporting the group overtly and covertly. It (Pakistan) is also a nation where many senior Taliban leaders, including slain al-Qa’ida leader— Osama bin Laden, have escaped to after the US-led War on Terror in Afghanistan in 2001. Click here to read…
Pakistan continues to develop culture of violence, claimed India at the UN
In the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), on 07 September 2021, the First Secretary in India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations (UN)— Vidisha Maitra said that Pakistan continues to foment a “culture of violence” at home and across the border; along with using the UN platform for hate speech against India. We dismiss and condemn all such efforts. Click here to read…
DOMESTIC TERRORISM
Jammu and Kashmir
NH-44 is high on target of JeM and LeT: warned intelligence agencies
The Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) send intelligence inputs to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) indicating that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) are planning to carry out a major attack along the National Highway-44 (NH-44) in Srinagar—from Qazigund to Khanabal.
Also, there have been reports of Masood Azhar (JeM’s leader) meeting Taliban’s top leaders in Kandahar in mid-August seeking support for anti-India operations. In 2021, around 272 youths from Kashmir went missing, and it is estimated that at least 82 of them have joined terrorist groups in the Valley, with 42 being recruited by LeT. Click here to read…
Security forces arrested a HM terrorist from Pulwama district
In a joint operation on 09 September 2021, the 50 Rashtriya Rifle (RR), Awantipora police, and the 185th Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), arrested a Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM) terrorist— Shahid Ahmed Khanday, from Androosa Khrew area of Awantipora area in Pulwama district.
During the search operation, security forces observed some suspicious movement in the area and noticed that a person was trying to flee; however, he was apprehended by the security forces personnel. Click here to read…
Pakistan’s ISI exporting IS-KP operatives to PoK for a major attack in Kashmir, claimed intelligence reports
The intelligence reports claimed that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been exporting the Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP) terrorists into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with aim to carry out major terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
These IS-KP terrorists were released from Afghan jails and returned to Pakistan after the Taliban overthrew the Ghani government in Afghanistan, amidst the United States (US) withdrawal from the country. Click here to read…
Left-Wing Extremism
In 2020, Maoist violence highest in Chhattisgarh: NCRB data
According to the annual report released by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), on 14 September 2021, Chhattisgarh recorded the highest number of Maoist-related crimes in 2020. Followed by Jharkhand (133 cases registered) and Maharashtra (32 cases registered), Chhattisgarh topped in murders, loot, attempted murders, and arson by Maoists. Click here to read…
Police arrested senior Maoist leader from Odisha
On 14 September 2021, Odisha police arrested senior Maoist leader and Special Zonal Committee member of Andhra-Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC)—Dubbasi Shankar aka Mahender, from Koraput district in Odisha.
Reportedly, Dubbasi had moved out of the jungle terrain to undergo some medical treatment in Koraput district, where he was arrested by police’s special team. Click here to read…
52 Maoists, including sympathisers, surrendered in Telangana
On 09 September 2021, 52 Maoists, including village committee members and sympathisers, from four border villages of Charlamandal of Bhadradri-Kothagudem district in Telangana, surrendered before Superintendent of Police (SP).
Among those who surrendered were five women and seven minors from Pusuguppa, Battigudem, Bathinapalli, and Chennapuram villages. In November 2020, 33 Maoists, including village committee members, had surrendered before police. Click here to read…
Islamic Extremism
NIA filed charge-sheet against three IS operatives in Kerala module case
On 08 September 2021, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge-sheet against three Islamic State (IS) operatives—Mohammed Ameen aka Abu Yahya, Mushab Anwar, and Rahees Rasheed. The case was registered on 05 March 2021, pertaining to terrorist activities of Mohammed Ameen and his associates. Mohammed Ameen have been running various IS propaganda on different social media platforms, including Telegram, Hoop, and Instagram. Click here to read…
NIA filed charge-sheet against an IS operative in ‘al-Hind Bengaluru module’ case
On 03 September 2021, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a supplementary charge-sheet against Shihabudeenaka Sirajudeenaka Khalid aka Rajesh—an Islamic State (IS) operative, in connection with ‘al-Hind Bengaluru module’ case.
On 10 January 2020, the case was registered against Mehboob Pasha aka Abdullah, and 16 others, in several cases related to terrorism, and murder of Hindu leaders. Investigation has revealed that Shihabudeen was part of larger conspiracy and had collected & hand-over the arms & ammunition in Mumbai to other operatives to be used in the murder of the Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) Y Wilson in Tamil Nadu police. Click here to read…
Islamic Extremism inspired Extremism
NIA Special Court framed charges against eight KLF terrorists in connection to killing of Comrade Balwinder Singh Sandhu, SC awardee
On 31 August 2021, the Special Judge for NIA (National Investigation Agency) cases, Mohali, framed charges against eight Khalistan Liberation Front (KLF) terrorists— i) Sukhraj Singh aka Sukhaaka Lakhanpal, ii) Ravinder Singh aka Ravi Dhillon, iii) Akashdeep Arora aka Dhaliwal, iv) Jagroop Singh, v) Sukhdeep Singh aka Buraaka Bhura, vi) Gurjit Singh aka Bha, vii) Inderjit Singh, and viii) Sukhmeet Pal Singh aka Sukhaka SukhBhikariwal, in connection with murder of Comrade Balwinder Singh, Shaurya Chakra awardee. On 16 October 2020, two unidentified persons killed Comrade Balwinder Singh at his residence in Bhikhiwind, Taran Tarn district in Punjab. Click here to read…
North-East Region Insurgency
NIA filed charge-sheet against five ULFA-I operatives in 2019 Grenade Blast case
On 14 September 2021, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a supplementary charge-sheet against five operatives of the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) in connection with 2019 Grenade Blast case. In 2019, two ULFA-I operatives threw grenade at a police party near Central Mall, RGB road, Guwahati, in which 12 people were injured. The self-styled commander-in-chief of ULFA-I—Paresh Baruah, took responsibility of the attack.
The charge-sheeted accused are identified as—Pappu Koch Bokoliyal aka BijoyAsom, Amrit Ballav Goswami, Paresh Baruah aka Paresh Asom, Arunodoy Dahotiya aka Bijit Gogoi, and Munna Baruah aka Munna Asom. Click here to read…
CYBER, INFORMATION WARFARE & AI (SECURITY PERSPECTIVE)
“Cyber-attacks increasingly targeting Australia’s Critical National Infrastructure”, claimed the ACSC
In a report published on 15 September 2021, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) informed that a quarter of cyber attacks reported to the Australian security officials over the past year have targeted the Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) and essential services, including healthcare, food distribution, and energy. The ransomware attacks increased by 15 per cent in the 2020-2021 financial year, as compared to the previous financial year. The ACSC received more than 67,500 reports of cyber-crime of all types in 2020-2021. Click here to read…
Indian start-up firm comes up with a device to prevent cyber-attacks
A Pune-based cyber security start-up firm—Elementik Technologies has launched “Byteseal”— a device to prevent identity-related cyber-attacks, such as phishing and credential thefts. The start-up incubated with Science and Technology Park in Pune and has raised ₹ 1 crore through the Park’s seed-funding scheme, supported by the Department of Science and Technology.
“Byteseal is a secure authentication device which helps subscribers manage their passwords in a more secure and simple way. The device carries the world’s most secure capacitive fingerprint sensor, wireless connectivity to phone and computer via Bluetooth technology and has a long-lasting rechargeable battery up to three months,” said Nikhilesh Wani—founder of the Elementik Technologies. Click here to read…
US keen to collaborate with Telangana State government in cyber security
The United States (US) government expressed its interest to explore ties with Telangana State government in cyber security areas, mainly crypto currency forensics, capacity building, and technology transfer. During her visit to India in August 2021, the US Deputy National Security Adviser (NSA) for Cyber & Emerging Technologies— Anne Neuberger exchanged thoughts on potential cooperation with the State government of Telangana, represented by Industries & Commerce and IT Principal Secretary— Jayesh Ranjan.
Telangana State has been a forerunner in cyber security with dedicated efforts such as State policy, Hyderabad Security Cluster (HSC) and Cyber Security Centre of Excellence (CSCE). Click here to read…
Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.
COMMENTARY
Future of Post-Islamist India-Morocco Relations
In the parliamentary electionsof 8th September, Morocco’s long-ruling Islamists suffered a crushing defeat by the liberal parties. With just 12 seats, Islamist Justice and Development (PJD)Party finished much behind its main rivals, the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), with 102 and 82 seats respectivelyin the 395-seat assembly. Morocco’s oldest party, The Istiqlal (Independence) also made a surprisingly remarkable comeback and added 32 more to its previous tally to reach 78 seats. Click here to read
NEWS
Mali marks 61st Independence Day celebration with military parade
Mali has marked its 61st anniversary of the country’s independence from France. The celebration however comes at a time of political uncertainty for the sahelian nation. Click here to read
Morocco’s PM-designate Akhannouch announces coalition government
Morocco’s designated Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch said on Wednesday that the three biggest winners of this month’s parliamentary had agreed to form a new cabinet. Click here to read
Egypt uses ‘radio diplomacy’ in Africa to influence Nile dam dispute
Amid the ongoing dispute over the Grand Ethiopia Renaissance Dam (GERD), Egypt is working to expand its broadcasting system targeting Nile Basin countries to promote Egypt’s positions Click here to read
Tunisia’s Saied strengthens presidential powers in decrees
Tunisian President Kaïs Saied issued presidential decrees bolstering the already near-total power he granted himself two months ago. Click here to read
Sudan coup attempt has failed, government says
Sudan’s fragile political transition has been plunged into uncertainty after a reported coup attempt by soldiers loyal to the former autocrat Omar al-Bashir, who was ousted in 2019.Bashir himself came to power after a military coup in 1989. Click here to read
Beijing finds itself cornered by Africa as they cancel China-led projects
China is increasingly finding itself being cornered by African countries on investment-related matters with several of them cancelling their contracts with Chinese companies, according to a media report. Click here to read
Why Africa is sending more satellites into space
Africa’s space industry has been slow to take off, but it’s predicted to skyrocket in the next few years. Since the continent’s first satellite launched more than 20 years ago, 44 have been sent into orbit by 13 African countries, further 125 are being developed by 23 countries, all expected to launch before 2025. Click here to read
“Hotel Rwanda” Hero Sentenced To 25 Years In Prison On Terror Charges
Paul Rusesabagina, the “Hotel Rwanda” hero who became a fiercely outspoken government critic, was sentenced on Monday to 25 years in prison on terrorism charges after what his supporters labelled a politically motivated show trial. Click here to read
Somalis enjoy first public film screening in 30 years
Somalia has hosted its first public film-screening in 30 years – raising hopes of a cultural revival in the war-ravaged country.The theatre has been a suicide bomb target and a base for warlords. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-58661531″ target=”_blank”>Click here to read
INDIA IN AFRICA
India upgrades its relationship with Algeria
India had a close relationship with Algeria way before its independence in 1962 when the diplomatic relationship was established. New Delhi supported and even hosted the Algerian Independence Movement represented by National Liberation Front (NLF). Click here to read
Coaches from Rae Bareli factory set to roll into Mozambique
Nearly eight years after its commissioning, the modern coach factory (MCF), Rae Bareli, will dispatch its first export quality train set to Mozambique by next month. Click here to read
Ghana President Akufo-Addo slams European nations for not recognizing India-made India-Africa
Ghana has termed as unfortunate the development in some countries in Europe of not recognising the Covishield vaccine manufactured in India for travellers, saying the use of vaccines as a tool for immigration control will be a truly retrogressive step. Click here to read
Ambassador Abhay Kumar meets young Malagasy diplomats who will get training in Delhi
India’s Ambassador to Madagascar Abhay Kumar met young diplomats from Madagascar who are joining the first special course for diplomats in the Indian Ocean Region at the Sushma Swaraj Foreign Service Institute in New Delhi starting September 20. Click here to read
India to train African students for UNESCO India-Africa science hackathon with AICTE
India in partnership with All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) will train students from over 30 African countries for UNESCO India-Africa science hackathon, representative of India to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma said on social media. Click here to read
Xi calls for accelerating building of world center for talent, innovation: Xinhuanet
September 28, 2021
Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed efforts to implement the strategy on developing a quality workforce in the new era and to accelerate the work to build China into a major world center of professional talent and innovation. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when speaking at a central conference on talent-related work, which was held on Monday and Tuesday. Click here to read
A Chinese experimental satellite sent into space on Monday has experienced abnormalities, and space engineers are investigating the cause.The satellite was launched at 4:20 p.m. (Beijing Time) on a Long March-3B carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China’s Sichuan Province.The satellite entered the planned orbit but showed abnormalities during flightClick here to read
China takes multiple measures to cope with power shortages: Xinhuanet
September 28, 2021
China has taken a slew of measures to cope with the emergency of tightened power supply to meet people’s power needs and ensure economic growth and social stability. Work teams have been dispatched to Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, eastern Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang and Hunan, the National Energy Administration (NEA) said. Click here to read
PLAAF cultivates pilots for intelligentized air battle: China Military
September 28, 2021
The International Military Flight Training Conference 2021 hosted by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) was held in Zhuhai on September 27. Representatives from 49 countries attended the conference by either coming to the conference site or via video link. Twelve Chinese and foreign guests from military and civilian circles made speeches around the theme of “Talent, Innovation, Collaboration, Development”. Click here to read
China’s 2021 anti-piracy operation helps clean up cyberspace: People’s Daily
September 28, 2021
A national anti-piracy operation targeting copyright infringement on the internet has helped clean up cyberspace, an official statement said Tuesday.Copyright law enforcement departments at various levels have investigated 445 cases involving online copyright infringement, shutting down 245 illegal websites and mobile applications transmitting pirated content, and removing 618,300 web links with such content since the operation was launched in June, said the statement. Click here to read
Supersonic cruise missile ready for export: China Daily
September 29, 2021
China is ready to export one of its mightiest weapons a submarine-launched supersonic cruise missile system that has been deployed by the People’s Liberation Army Navy. The YJ-18E, an export version of the YJ-18, is on display at the 13th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, the largest arms show in the nation, which means its maker China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp has obtained government approval to sell the cutting-edge missile overseas. Click here to read
China’s most advanced stealth drones make air show debut: Global Times
September 28, 2021
Airshow China 2021’s opening ceremony on Tuesday attracted attention worldwide, with several of the most advanced China-made drones making their debuts, including the GJ-11 prototype, WZ-7 and WZ-8, which first appeared at the military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing in 2019, and experts said this shows China’s full confidence in its world-class unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. Click here to read
Chinese EV battery maker CATL expands overseas investment: Global Times
September 29, 2021
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery giant Contemporary Amperex Technology Co (CATL) has made investments in a pair of major overseas projects, including an acquisition of a Canadian lithium company and investment in a joint lithium project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). CATL has agreed to purchase Canada’s Millennial Lithium Corp for C$376.8 million ($297.3 million), Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing the Canadian mining company. Click here to read
Huawei to recruit more ‘high-nose’ staff who master ‘foreign arms’ says CEO Ren Zhengfei: Global Times
September 29, 2021
Huawei CEO Ren Zhengfei said in a company internal email sent on August 12 that Huawei will hire more foreign experts who possess advance skills and can join the development of the company and the country, which was made public on Tuesday. Ren joked using the friendly Chinese slang “high-nose” and mastering “foreign arms” to describe the foreign experts that Huawei is planning to recruit. Click here to read
China’s development finance double US’ but issues threaten belt and road, says report: South China Morning Post
September 29, 2021
China’s development financing has more than doubled that of the United States or any other major power, but if it wants to remain competitive its belt and road projects must address key concerns relating to debt and implementation, a new report said. The extensive analysis published by AidData, a research lab at William & Mary college, on Wednesday showed that China spent an average US$85.4 billion a year in the five years after the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was launched in 2013, far outpacing the US at US$37 billion a year. Click here to read
China faces backlash on move to reduce abortions as Beijing tries to boost birth rate to counter ageing population: South China Morning Post
September 28, 2021
The Chinese government’s move to discourage abortions for “non-medical” purposes has been met by a public backlash, with many seeing this as an intrusive measure meant to raise the country’s birthrate. The State Council said on Monday it will: “reduce the rate of abortions needed for non-medical reasons”, as part of its efforts to improve women’s health, according to a series of new guidelines addressing issues related to women and children in the country. The policy did not elaborate on how this would be achieved. Click here to read
China calls a WTO solar ruling favoring the US ‘dangerous’: Taipei Times
September 29, 2021
China on Monday lambasted a WTO ruling in a row with the US over Washington’s measures to limit the import of solar panel cells, calling it “erroneous and dangerous.” A WTO panel handed a victory to the US earlier this month, rejecting all four of China’s claims and saying that the US measures did not breach global trade rules. China last week said that it would appeal the decision. Click here to read
China asking state-backed firms to pick up Evergrande assets: Reuters
September 29, 2021
Beijing is prodding government-owned firms and state-backed property developers such as China Vanke Co Ltd to purchase some of embattled China Evergrande Group’s assets, people with knowledge of the matter said. Evergrande, saddled with $305 billion in liabilities, is teetering on the brink of collapse. But the central government is unlikely to intervene directly to resolve Evergrande’s crisis in the form of a bailout, according to six people, including four in government and regulatory bodies. Click here to read
China’s State Council appoints, removes officials: Xinhuanet
September 27, 2021
The State Council, China’s cabinet, announced the appointment and removal of officials Monday. Shao Xinyu was appointed vice minister of science and technology. Xu Nanping was removed from the post of vice minister of science and technology, and Liu Liehong no longer holds the position of vice minister of industry and information technology. Li Bo no longer serves as deputy governor of the People’s Bank of China. Click here to read
China issues white paper on moderate prosperity: Xinhuanet
September 28, 2021
China’s State Council Information Office Tuesday issued a white paper to document the country’s journey to moderate prosperity in all respects, or Xiaokang. The white paper, titled “China’s Epic Journey from Poverty to Prosperity,” said the realization of moderate prosperity in all respects, as declared in July, marks a critical step towards national rejuvenation for the country. Click here to read
China’s State Grid vows power supply to ensure people’s basic needs: Xinhuanet
September 27, 2021
The State Grid Corporation of China on Monday said that it would take comprehensive measures to ensure power supply for people’s basic needs and try its best to avoid power cuts. The company will go all out to fight the battle of guaranteeing power supply and firmly safeguard the bottom line of power supply to meet people’s basic needs, and ensure social development and security, said the company. Click here to read
China punishes over 12,000 for frugality violations in August: Xinhuanet
September 28, 2021
China punished 12,387 people in August for violating the country’s eight-point code on improving Party and government conduct, the top anti-graft body announced on its website on Monday. The punished were involved in 8,569 cases, according to the monthly statement by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission. Click here to read
China to establish coordination mechanism for integrating core socialist values into laws, regulations: People’s Daily
September 28, 2021
A guideline released by Chinese authorities called for the establishment of a coordination mechanism to integrate core socialist values into the development of the rule of law. The guideline was jointly released by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, the General Office of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Ministry of Justice. Click here to read
Leading internet hi-tech achievements unveiled in China: China Daily
September 27, 2021
A total of 14 world-leading internet scientific and technological achievements were unveiled Sunday in East China’s Zhejiang province. The building and applications of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System and the HarmonyOS, the operating system for the smartphones of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, were among the released items recommended by a panel composed of nearly 40 internet experts from home and abroad. Click here to read
China to speed up research into new strategic weapons for air force says J-20 chief designer: Global Times
September 27, 2021
Yang Wei, chief designer of China’s J-20 stealth fighter jet, said that during the country’s 14th Five-year Plan (2021-25), Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) will develop the capability of H-6 series bombers and will speed up research into new strategic weapons and equipment, to further strengthen long-range strategic strike capability for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force. Click here to read
Chinese chip firms temporarily halt production due to nationwide power curbs: Global Times
September 28, 2021
A number of chip enterprises in China have halted production temporarily, including suppliers of semiconductors for foreign companies, amid a severe nationwide power shortage due to soaring coal prices and policies to reduce energy consumption. CWTC, a semiconductor packaging material supplier for NXP and Infineon Technologies, released a notice on Sunday saying that its factory in Suzhou, Jiangsu had suspended semiconductor production from September 26 to 30, in accordance with the local policy on power reduction. Click here to read
China’s industrial profit growth slows due to high commodity prices, coronavirus, component shortages: South China Morning Post
September 28, 2021
Profits at China’s industrial firms grew at a weaker pace in August from a year earlier, slowing for a sixth consecutive month, as manufacturers struggled with high commodity prices, the coronavirus and shortages in some key components. Profits rose 10.1 per cent year on year to 680.3 billion yuan (US$105 billion) last month compared with a 16.4 per cent gain in July, data from China’s statistics bureau showed on Tuesday. Click here to read
China steps up anti-corruption drive as Evergrande crisis puts spotlight on financial risk: South China Morning Post
September 27, 2021
China’s top anti-corruption official will launch a nationwide audit of major financial firms and regulators to eliminate risk in the sector, following debt crises at state-owned financial conglomerate Huarong and private property developer China Evergrande. Zhao Leji, secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, announced at a conference on Sunday “full-scale disciplinary inspections” to safeguard the healthy development of China’s financial sector. Click here to read
Energy rules hit iPhone makers: Taipei Times
September 28, 2021
iPhone assembly operations in China are beginning to reduce their energy consumption because of a sudden power crunch in the country, which has triggered government-imposed curbs on a range of businesses. Pegatron Corp, a key partner for Apple Inc and one of the assemblers of its iPhone, said yesterday that it’s taking energy-saving measures to comply with local government policies. Click here to read
PBOC promises to protect consumers as China Evergrande teeters: Reuters
September 28, 2021
China’s central bank vowed to protect consumers exposed to the housing market on Monday and injected more cash into the banking system as the Shenzhen government began investigating the wealth management unit of ailing developer Evergrande, the clearest sign yet the authorities could move to contain contagion risks. Once the epitome of an era of helter-skelter borrowing and building in China, Evergrande has now become the poster child of a crackdown on developers’ debts that has left investors large and small sweating their exposure. Click here to read
Xi calls for openness, cooperation in science & technology: Xinhuanet
September 24, 2021
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday called on all countries to strengthen openness and cooperation in science and technology. Xi made the remarks while delivering a speech via video at the opening ceremony of the 2021 Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum), which is scheduled from Sept. 24 to 28 in Beijing. Click here to read
China issues white paper on Xinjiang’s demographic development: Xinhuanet
September 26, 2021
China’s State Council Information Office Sunday issued a white paper detailing the demographic development in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The white paper, titled “Xinjiang Population Dynamics and Data,” said over the past 70 years, Xinjiang has seen rapid and steady population growth, improving population quality, higher life expectancy, and faster urbanization and modernization. Click here to read
China says no to cartoons with unhealthy content: Xinhuanet
September 25, 2021
China’s broadcasting authorities have voiced absolute rejection of cartoons that contain plots or footage of violence, blood, vulgarity or pornography. Service providers of audio-visual web programs are encouraged to create, import and broadcast cartoons that feature positive values and promote virtues of the true, the good and the beautiful, said the National Radio and Television Administration on its website. Click here to read
J-16D and WZ-7 to debut at Airshow China 2021: China Military
September 26, 2021
The 13th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China 2021) will be held in Zhuhai, south China’s Guangdong Province, as scheduled from September 28 to October 3. An array of main combat equipment including the J-20 stealth fighter, Y-20 heavy transport aircraft, KJ-500 early warning aircraft, H-6K bomber, and HQ-9B air-defense missile system will appear together in the exhibition. China’s J-16D electronic warfare aircraft and WZ-7 high-altitude reconnaissance drone are to debut at the upcoming air show. The systematical display of multi-type main combat equipment of the PLA Air Force (PLAAF) demonstrates the new achievements of its strategic transformation. Click here to read
China to promote vocational training of migrant workers: People’s Daily
September 26, 2021
China will promote vocational training of migrant workers as part of the efforts to consolidate its poverty alleviation outcomes, an official said Saturday.By the end of August, China has 30.85 million migrant workers who had shaken off poverty, Liu Xiaoshan, an official with the National Administration for Rural Vitalization said at a news conference. Click here to read
Liaison office of central gov’t says anti-China group in Hong Kong cannot escape justice: China Daily
September 26, 2021
After a notorious anti-China group announced its dissolution on Saturday, the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region said it is the inevitable fate of anti-China groups in Hong Kong. The HKSAR government has started the procedure of banning the organization according to the law, a spokesperson of the liaison office said. Click here to read
Power shortage in NE China’s provinces affects local livelihood: Global Times
September 26, 2021
Three provinces in Northeast China, including Heilongjiang, Jilin and Liaoning, reported experiencing electricity shortages in some areas caused by the high price of coal used for power generation. Multiple local residents said this has affected their daily livelihood.A resident of Jilin city, in Jilin Province, told the Global Times on Sunday that the power supply of his house has been intermittent recently, noting that “the unstable power supply started on Saturday but did not receive any notice in advance.” Click here to read
Chinese Big Tech vows to support SMEs at premier internet summit: Global Times
September 26, 2021
At the water town of Wuzhen in East China’s Zhejiang Province, a high-level annual internet forum puts China’s best and brightest tech talent on show surrounded by voices of confidence and resilience from tech luminaries from both home and abroad. The country’s platform economy is seen as gaining luster, rather than the other way around as hyped by some Western media, and the new mood has been borne amid a responsible governmental push for greater fairness and effective innovation. Click here to read
China tries to rally national pride as it paints MengWanzhou’s release as proof the US targeted an innocent woman for political reasons: South China Morning Post
September 26, 2021
The return of MengWanzhou to China without legal penalty is being used to shore up nationalist sentiment by feeding up the narrative that Huawei and China were innocent victims of the United States. Repeating Beijing’s line on the case, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying on Saturday commented in a statement that this was “an incident of political persecution against a Chinese citizen” and there were “materials that are sufficient to prove MsMeng‘s innocence”. Click here to read
The everyday liquid that could fuel China’s race to green car targets: South China Morning Post
September 24, 2021
Scientists in China and Australia have developed a catalyst which uses urea-loaded waste water to efficiently generate clean energy, paving the way for low-cost portable fuel cells that work like batteries. Fuel cells, which have been used to power electric vehicles, are a clean source of electricity. They produce power through an electrochemical reaction of hydrogen with oxygen, generating heat and water as by-products. Click here to read
Two Chinese naval vessels reportedly spotted off Taiwan’s east coast: Focus Taiwan
September 24, 2021
Two military vessels from China were seen off the east of Taiwan, in the Pacific Ocean, over the past two days, a military source said Friday. One of them, a Chinese missile frigate, was spotted 40 nautical miles, or roughly 74 kilometers, off the coast of Hualien County at around 3 a.m. Thursday, presumably heading south into the Bashi Channel, the source said. Click here to read
China Evergrande’s electric car unit’s shares tumble 26% after warning: Reuters
September 27, 2021
Shares of China Evergrande’s electric car unit plunged as much as 26% on Monday after it warned it faced an uncertain future unless it got a swift injection of cash and after it said it will not proceed with plans to issue RMB shares.The warning by China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group after the market closed on Friday was the clearest sign yet that the embattled property developer’s liquidity crisis is worsening in other parts of its business. Click here to read
MoJ to Enforce Zahir Shah-Era Constitution: Tolo News
For an interim period, the constitution from the time of the Afghan king will be enforced, except for some articles against Sharia Law and Emirate principles. Click here to read
Afghan Businessmen Face Export Problems in Trade with Pakistan: Tolo News
Officials from Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) said that once again Afghan exports face problems in crossing points with Pakistan as the neighboring country allows only 20 Afghan trucks a day while hundreds of trucks are stuck near crossing points between the two countries. Click here to read
Former Afghan officials announce government in exile: The Khaama Press
A number of former Afghan officials who have fled the country along with President Ashraf Ghani announced the continuation of the Afghan government in exile. Click here to read
Taliban to implement a constitution from nearly 60 years ago: The Khaama Press
Taliban’s acting minister of Justice Abdul Hakim Sharaee said that they will implement the constitution from the era of Muhammad Zahir Shah which was ratified 57 years ago. Click here to read
Will not engage in Afghanistan until establishment of inclusive government: Erdogan: The Khaama Pres
President of Turkey Recep Tayyib Erdogan has said that they will not engage in Afghanistan until and unless the Taliban forge an all-inclusive government in the country. Click here to read
Bangladesh
Turkey-Bangladesh ties get stronger as misconceptions clarified- Daily Sabah
Relations between Turkey and Bangladesh scaled up after disinformation about Bangladesh spoiling Muslim unity was proven wrong, Bangladeshi officials said. Click here to read
Crystal meth creeps up on city- Daily Star
There is a growing market for highly addictive drug crystal meth in the capital, operated mostly through encrypted messaging apps, officials have found out. Click here to read
Over 66 lakh shots given: Special Covid vaccination drive marks Hasina’s 75th birthday- Daily Star
The country more than doubled its previous record of single-day vaccinations as the government inoculated more than 66 lakh people against Covid-19 yesterday. Click here to read
No more brokers- Daily Star
The Department of Immigration and Passports (DIP) has taken a plan to introduce licenced “agents” to help people get passports and renew them. Click here to read
AL focusing on polls, BNP on election-time government- Dhaka Tribune
The ruling Awami League has already begun preparations for the next general election, to be held at the end of 2023. Click here to read
Covid-19: Bangladesh records 31 more deaths, 1,310 new cases- Dhaka Tribune
As many as 29,186 samples tested in 24 hours, yielding an infection rate of 4.49%.Click here to read
High Court extends Khaleda Zia’s bail by a year in 5 cases- Dhaka Tribune
File photo of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia Collected the BNP chief is out of prison since March last year as the govt has suspended her sentence. Click here to read
Windows of democracy and Sheikh Hasina’s birthday – Asian Age
Sheikh Hasina regards the people of Bangladesh as her closest and dearest ones. Click here to read
Bangamata Parishad observes PM’s birthday- Asian Age
Bangamata Parishad observed the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday. The organization also held a discussion program in the capital’s National Museum on the same day. Click here to read
No alternative to Sheikh Hasina to reach desired destination: Hasan- The Observer
Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Tuesday said that there is no alternative to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to reach the country in its desired destination. Click here to read
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina likely to visit India next year- Times of India
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is likely to visit New Delhi early next year. The dates for the visit expected to be in January or February 2022, will be finalised only after a formal invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi is extended to her. Click here to read
Consultancy contract signed between India & Bangladesh for a new railway line from Bogura to Sirajganj- All India Radio
A new direct rail line from Bogura to Sirajganj in Bangladesh will be developed under a government of India Line of Credit (LoC). Click here to read
Fifty years ago, remote Dimapur airstrip gave wings to fledgling Bangladesh Air Force- Economic time
By November 5, we could proudly say Bangladeshi and Indian Air forces had freed the skies over Bangladesh. The victory over land forces took 11 more days. Click here to read
Bhutan
No local Covid-19 cases for 45 straight days- Kuensel
Bhutan has not reported any positive Covid-19 cases from the community for 45 straight days. The last positive case from the community was reported on August 14: an individual from Gomtu, Samtse. Click here to read
RUB colleges establish happiness and wellbeing centres- Kuensel
Colleges under the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) are establishing happiness and wellbeing centres to address mental health problems. Click here to read
Pandemic impacts nettle fabric business- Kuensel
Like many businesses, the pandemic impacted women who make a living weaving fabric from nettle yarn in Trongsa. Click here to read
Bhutan is home to one of the most expensive mushrooms in the world- Daily Bhutan
Email There is even a festival for it, known as the Matsutake Mushroom Festival. There, you’ll get to sample various dishes prepared with this mushroom. Click here to read
PM hosts reception to mark 50th anniversary Bhutan’s membership to the UN- Bhutan Times
A limited edition collectible commemorative stamp developed in partnership with Bhutan Post to mark the 50th anniversary of Bhutan’s membership to the UN was also launched by Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering and UN Resident Representative Gerald Daly on 21 September. Click here to read
Construction of new bridge along Damchhu-Haa bypass to begin from November- BBS
A new bridge over Wangchhu along the Damchhu-Haa bypass will be constructed from November. The project DANTAK will construct the bridge. The previous bridge which was almost complete collapsed in February this year killing nine Indian workers. Click here to read
Flagship programmes make slow progress amid the pandemic- BBS
With the 12th Five Year Plan already midway, the government was able to utilise only more than Nu 2bn on the flagship programmes so far. A total budget of Nu 10bn was identified for these programmes. Click here to read
How digital cash can lift gross national happiness in Bhutan- Mint
COVID-19 and rabies: Bhutan highlights the importance of cross-border dog vaccination- WHO
Despite the sad loss of its young citizen recently, Bhutan is on the right track to achieve this goal. Click here to read
India inks pact for joint development of small satellite for Bhutan- New Indian Express
India on Friday signed the implementing arrangement on the joint development of a small satellite for Bhutan. Click here to read
Maldives
‘Against Freedom of Expression’: Maldives Journalist Bodies Oppose Provisions in New Bill – The Wire
Journalist organisations and NGOs in Maldives have, in a joint statement issued on Tuesday, September 28, called for the country’s authorities to drop certain provisions from the Evidence Bill which is currently being debated in the country’s parliament. Click here to read
Over 100,000 arrivals recorded for the fourth month this ongoing year! – Raajje
The Ministry of Tourism, through its latest daily statistics revealed that Maldives observed a total of 102,745 arrivals between September 1 – 26. Click here to read
Maldives committed to One-China Policy, bilateral cooperation in int’l arena: FM – ECNS
Maldives’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the One-China Policy and willingness to work with China in areas of mutual interest. Click here to read
India’s 228 million social housing project in Maldives and its significance- Inventiva
Maldives’ state-owned Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation signed a loan agreement with India’s state-owned National Buildings Construction Company which is also known as NBCC, along with JMC Projects India Ltd. on Thursday. Click here to read
Myanmar
Afghanistan, Myanmar left in UN meet – Manila Times
The United Nations General Assembly drew to a close on Monday without speeches by Afghanistan or Myanmar after world powers intervened in disputes over who would represent the two countries. Click here to read
Junta mouthpiece criticises NLD-led decision to disband Union Democratic Party last year – Myanmar Now
A military-run newspaper has published an op-ed criticising the ousted National League for Democracy (NLD) government for overseeing the decision to dissolve the Union Democratic Party (UDP) shortly before last year’s general election. Click here to read
Growing numbers of young people seek to flee Myanmar – BNI Online
Young people disheartened by life in Myanmar following the coup are trying in growing numbers to leave the country and find work to help support their families, RFA reported. Click here to read
Myanmar Junta Troops Ambushed in Shan State – The Irrawaddy
At least 20 Myanmar military soldiers were reportedly killed or wounded on Monday, after Karenni resistance fighters ambushed a convoy of junta reinforcements in Pinlaung, Shan State in southeastern Myanmar. Click here to read
Int’l Rights Experts Urge UN to Declare Myanmar Junta ‘Terrorist’ Organization – The Irrawaddy
An independent group of prominent former UN human rights experts has urged the United Nations Security Council to declare the Myanmar military junta a “terrorist organization” for its atrocities against its own civilians including public torture, executions and taking hostages, including children as young as 2. Click here to read
Nepal
Minister Sharma stresses fully proportional election- Himalaya
Finance Minister Janardan Sharma said the fully proportional electoral system is necessary to eliminate unhealthy competition and malpractices in the election. Click here to read
Government to support tourism sector, says PM Deuba- Himalaya
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that the government is committed to support country’s tourism sector which has been hit hard by the COVID -19 pandemic. Click here to read
Poorly handled Covid-19 garbage could give rise to hazardous waste crisis- TKP
Amount of coronavirus-related refuse is increasing. There are protocols to manage such items, but implementation has been weak, leaving public health in peril. Click here to read
Panel on Nepal-China border issues calls for bilateral intervention- TKP
Government committee suggests joint inspection team of experts from both sides to deal with the dispute, if any. Click here to read
MCC ball in Nepal’s court- Nepali Times
‘Take it or leave it’ is the message to Kathmandu after visit by US officials. Click here to read
Maoist leader Barshaman Pun leaves for Thailand for treatment- Republica
CPN (Maoist Center) standing committee member Barshaman Pun left for Thailand today. Click here to read
Writ filed seeking annulment of oath taken by Foreign Minister Khadka- Republica
A writ petition has been filed at the Supreme Court on Tuesday seeking an order to annul the oath taken by Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka. Click here to read
Diplomats gather in Pokhara to revive Covid-19-hit Nepal tourism- Online Khabar
Just as the clouds were covering the Annapurna range, Park Chong-Suk, South Korean ambassador to Nepal, quickly took a selfie with his wife. This was at Naudanda, a few kilometres away from Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal. Click here to read
Border Roads Bring India and Nepal Closer- The Diplomat
The 35-km-long Uttarey-Chiwanbhangjyang road will link western Sikkim in India not just to areas on the Nepali side of the border but to western Nepal. Click here to read
Nepali Youth Protest in Capital Kathmandu Against Chinese Land Encroachment- NDTV
A youth association affiliated with Nepal’s Democratic Socialist Party led by Mahantha Thakur staged a protest against China on Tuesday for allegedly encroaching Nepal’s land. Click here to read
India MEA official reaches Nepal, to hold series of discussions- Wion
India MEA official reaches Nepal, to hold series of discussions Read more At: Click here to read
Pakistan
Qureshi again urges world to engage with ‘new reality’ in Afghanistan: Dawn
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has once again urged the international community to engage with the “new reality” in Afghanistan and unfreeze the country’s assets so that things do not fall apart. Click here to read
Mazari rebukes US for introducing bill targeting Pakistan for Afghan failure: The Express Tribune
Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari has warned that Pakistan will be made to “pay heavy price” for being an ally of the United States in its ‘war on terror’Click here to read
Shehbaz can be sent to prison for 25 years over corruption: Fawad: The Express Tribune
Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has said that Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif would be sentenced to at least 25 years in prison “if hearing of his corruption case is conducted on merit” Click here to read
US senators want Pak role probed in Taliban win: The News
A bill was Monday introduced in the US Senate requiring assessments and imposition of sanctions on the Taliban and persons assisting them in Afghanistan. Click here to read
NCOC for vaccination of children aged 12-years, above: The News
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has decided to vaccinate children aged 12 years and above. “In today’s meeting of NCOC, it has been decided to vaccinate all above 12 years and above,” Click here to read
Sri Lanka
932 persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT
Daily COVID-19 detections remained below 1,000 for the second consecutive day with 932 persons testing positive for COVID-19 yesterday. Click here to read
Ensure workers’ rights before extending GSP+: EPZ workers write to EU Ambassador – The Morning
The Stand Up Movement Lanka organisation has written to the European Union (EU), requesting that it intervene to ensure that the rights of workers in the Export Processing Zones (EPZs) are addressed prior to deciding on whether or not to extend the grant of the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) trade concessions to Sri Lanka. Click here to read
Sri Lanka Govt. suspends order placed to procure Oxygen from India – Daily Mirror
The Government has decided to suspend the order placed to purchase 1,080 tonnes of liquid oxygen from India, required for the next three weeks. Click here to read
National Issues Haunt GoSL at UNGA 2021 – Ceylon Today
Sri Lanka’s long-standing problem of seeking justice for the Tamils, and Catholics after the Easter Sunday attacks, has reached the United Nations Headquarters. Click here to read
Violations of building rules continue unabated in Kabul- Pajhwok Afghan
Based on current laws, construction of more than three-storey buildings in residential areas is not permissible in Kabul. Click here to read
Save the Children to expand activities in Kandahar: Chief- Pajhwok Afghan
The Children organization chief says they will extend their services to areas where they had no access to due the conflict. Click here to read
Former president Ghani’s Facebook page hacked- Pajhwok Afghan
Former President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani on Monday said his Facebook page has been hacked and disowned recent posts on the page. Click here to read
No One from Afghanistan Will Address UNGA: Reuters- Tolo News
No representative from Afghanistan will address the annual high-level U.N. General Assembly in New York after the ambassador for the government ousted by the Taliban – who was due to speak on Monday – withdrew his name. Click here to read
Bangladesh
PM Hasina’s 75th birthday today- Asian Age
Today is the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Awami League (AL) and its affiliated and likeminded bodies are celebrating the day through various programs highlighting the life and achievements of Sheikh Hasina. Click here to read
Shots for Higher Edn Students: Half yet not registered- Daily Star
Although the government said any university or its affiliated colleges could resume in-person classes if all their students completed the Covid-19 vaccine registration by yesterday. Click here to read
25 lakh Pfizer vaccines arrive in Dhaka airport- Daily Star
Twenty-five lakh more doses of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine, under the COVAX facility, arrived in Bangladesh early today. Click here to read
Child marriage: Many girls long for a return to schools- Dhaka Tribune
Up to 70% of girls in grade 9 and 10 in many schools are yet to return to classes. Click here to read
Rt-PCR test to start in full capacity at Dhaka airport from Tuesday- Dhaka Tribune
The Covid-19 rt-PCR laboratory set up for UAE passengers at Dhaka airport is fully prepared. Click here to read
Minister Mannan: Corruption is a reality- Dhaka Tribune
Government does not want to curb corruption through hustle, he says. Click here to read
Bhutan
The significance of offering seven bowls of water- Bhutan Times
The 7 bowls signify respectively: water for drinking, water for washing, flowers, incense, light, perfume, and food. Click here to read
12th Five-Year Plan reprioritised to stimulate growth- Kuensel
These are a part of the three major new activities the government had to reprioritise and adopt in the 12th FYP as part of the Covid-19 interventions and Economic Contingency plan. Click here to read
Raising healthy and resilient future- Kuensel
There is a need for schools to improve mental resilience programmes. Click here to read
Let Climate Change not slide this time- Kuensel
The Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty on climate change, requires each State to prepare, outline and communicate its NDCs. Click here to read
Bhutan’s journey to become a model eco-tourism destination- BBS
To promote Bhutan as a model eco-tourism destination, the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) launched the ecotourism project in Trashigang. Click here to read
Maldives
Small islands caught between tourism economy, climate change – New Indian Express
Come visit the Maldives, its president entreated the world at this year’s United Nations General Assembly, moments before switching to an impassioned plea for help combating climate change. The adjacent appeals illustrated a central dilemma for many small island developing states: their livelihoods, or their lives? Click here to read
India Exim Bank extends Buyer’s Credit facilities under NEIA aggregating $226.95M to Republic of Maldives govt – India infonline
Export-Import Bank of India [India Exim Bank] has extended two Buyer’s Credit [BC] facilities under National Export Insurance Account [NEIA] aggregating USD 226.95 mn to Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation Ltd. (FDCL), Government of Republic of Maldives (GoM) for construction of 4000 Social Housing Units in Hulhumale, Maldives by NBCC (India) Ltd. (NBCC) and JMC Projects (India) Ltd. (JMC). Click here to read
Maldives Telecommunications Strategic SWOT Analysis Review and Outlook to 2025-Analysis of Maldives Mobile, Fixed Telephone and Broadband Markets – Today’s Newspaper
This contemporary research presentation and detailed market research synopsis on Maldives Telecommunications market is a real time presentation of all the specific market developments that have a lingering impact on current growth trajectory, besides also harping on vital predications in the realm of future growth scope. Click here to read
Next hearing in Yameen’s sentence appeal trial scheduled for October – Raajje
During Monday’s hearing in the money laundering trial, state prosecutors have refuted claims that they had ever decided against halting the cases linked to the suspects of the grand corruption scandal involving Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC). Click here to read
Myanmar
Quad Leaders Call on Myanmar Junta to End Violence – The Irrawaddy
Leaders of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) on Friday called for an end to the violence in Myanmar in a joint statement. US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday participated in the first-ever in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit, hosted by Biden in Washington. Click here to read
Rebel Fighters From India Cooperating With Myanmar Military Regime – The Irrawaddy
After the Myanmar military’s February 1 coup, Tamu was one of the first towns to take up arms against the junta, following a bloody crackdown on anti-regime protesters. Click here to read
‘No Future’ for Myanmar People Unless Spring Revolution Succeeds – The Irrawaddy
Myanmar’s military regime has been waging war in Chin State in the mountainous far west of the country for months. Intense fighting between the junta and civilian resistance groups has forced thousands of people to flee their homes, creating a humanitarian catastrophe. soldiers also shot down a Christian pastor in the town and mutilated his corpse. Click here to read
Myanmar’s NLD Marks 33rd Anniversary Facing Abolition Threat – The Irrawaddy
The National League for Democracy (NLD), Myanmar’s most popular political party, turns 33 years old on Monday. But a question mark hangs over its future following the military’s Feb. 1 coup. Click here to read
China Aiding Myanmar Armed Groups in Their COVID-19 Fight – The Diplomat
Earlier this week, the news agency AFP carried an interesting report detailing the Chinese government’s support to Myanmar’s ethnic armed organizations and rebel groups. Click here to read
Nepal
Khadka rules out amendment to MCC- Himalaya
Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka has said there can be no amendment to the Millennium Challenge Corporation agreement that Nepal has signed with the United States of America. Click here to read
Buddha Air aircraft safely lands at TIA amid reports of ‘landing gear issue’- Himalaya
A Buddha Air aircraft safely landed in Tribhuvan International Airport after a malfunction was reportedly detected in its landing gear early on Monday. Click here to read
Kathmandu and Lalitpur districts are vaccinating everyone above 18 years- TKP
Everyone above 18 can take the AstraZeneca vaccine from immunisation centers of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City and those in the municipalities of the district can take the Vero Cell vaccine. Click here to read
After Covid-19 pandemic, it’s price rise that is biting Nepalis hard
People exchanging old banknotes with new ones at NRB- Republica
Banks and financial institutions have started providing new bank notes starting Monday. Click here to read
Saptapatal Pokhari: A motivating case for Kathmandu heritage conservation- OnlineKhabar
The pond, which had a lot of religious significance, gradually got lost during the Kathmandu valley’s urbanisation drive. Click here to read
Pakistan
Govt, PML-N clash over UK court’s order on Sharifs- The Dawn
A UK court has ordered unfreezing of the bank accounts of PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif and his son Suleman Shehbaz after the country’s National Crime Agency (NCA) did not find evidence regarding ‘suspicious bank transactions’ against them. Click here to read
Pakistan discussing expansion of CPEC to Afghanistan: envoy- The Dawn
Pakistan has discussed the Taliban-led Afghanistan joining the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) infrastructure project, the Pakistan’s ambassador to the country said on Monday. Click here to read
No problem if country gets rule of law through reconciliation, says Nawaz Sharif- The News
MLN leader and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has said that if the country will get rule of law and implementation of the Constitution through reconciliation then there is no need to fight. Click here to read
Pakistan supports inclusive govt in Afghanistan: Moeed Yousaf- The News
National Security Adviser to Prime Minister Moeed Yousaf has said Pakistan has always been supportive to the concerns and legitimate demands of the international community regarding an inclusive government in Afghanistan. Click here to read
‘Don’t blame Pakistan for the outcome of the war in Afghanistan’- The News
Let me put it plainly. Since 2001, I have repeatedly warned that the Afghan war was unwinnable. Click here to read
PML-N will ‘bury’ PTI in 2023 polls: Shehbaz- The Tribune
PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday said his party, under the leadership of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, would “bury for good” the politics of the ruling PTI in the 2023 general elections. Click here to read
Sri Lanka
Why Sri Lanka is losing many European tourists- Island
The tourist season, in Sri Lanka, will comence in November. Click here to read
Self-Employed Traders petition SC over govt. favouring liquor dealers- Island
The Supreme Court has decided take up, on 04 Oct. for hearing a petition filed by the Association of Self-Employed Traders against the opening of liquor stores during the current lockdown. Click here to read
Australia’s richest woman warns Australia will end up impoverished like Sri Lanka- Island
Gina Rinehart, Australia’s richest woman worth $31billion, has warned Australia is on the same track as Sri Lanka and Argentina in falling from prosperity to poverty due to a big-spending, regulation-heavy government. Click here to read
CMC members launch Satyagraha- Daily Mirror
Some Members of the Colombo Municipal Council staged a Satyagraha yesterday against the alleged move by the Municipal Treasurer to delay funds to purchase dry rations for the needy people in the city who have been affected by the lockdown. Click here to read
Iran, Sri Lanka pledge to boost ties- Daily News
Emphasized on taking new steps in developing economic, trade relations with the South Asian Island nation. Click here to read
Female Leaders at UNGA Call for Afghan Women’s Rights: Tolo News
A number of women leaders attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York are vocally advocating for Afghan women and girls, saying their rights should not be taken away and the Taliban should refrain from violence. Click here to read
Imran Khan Seeks World’s Support to Taliban: Tolo News
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York urged the international community to engage with and support the Taliban instead of isolating them. Click here to read
Impossible for us to recognize Taliban: Italian FM: The Khaama Press
The foreign minister of Italy Luigi Di Maio strongly reacted to the Taliban’s caretaker cabinet and said that it is impossible for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to be recognized by them. Click here to read
Strengthening banking system, economic growth is of utmost importance: Taliban: The Khaama Press
Taliban say that the strengthening of the banking system, growth of commerce, and economy of Afghanistan is vital and will do their best in this regard. Click here to read
Bangladesh
80 lakh Covid shots in a single day!- Daily Star
The premises of a vaccination centre in Khulna Sadar Hospital is crammed with people waiting for their Covid shot. Volunteers at the centre said it is almost impossible to maintain social distancing when the crowd is so large. Click here to read
2 arrested for torturing teenager- Daily Star
Police have arrested two persons for brutally torturing a teenage boy for ransom in Natore on Saturday night. Click here to read
2002 attack on Hasina’s motorcade in Satkhira: Fugitive convict arrested in Dhaka- Daily Star
Detectives have arrested a convict in a case filed over the attack on the motorcade of the then opposition leader and current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Satkhira 19 years ago. Click here to read
Experts wary of importing LNG- Dhaka Tribune
Three cargoes of LNG are being procured from the spot market to increase the country’s gas supply. Click here to read
World Sindhi Congress held protest in Geneva against human rights violations in Pak’s Sindh- Asian Age
The World Sindhi Congress (WSC on Thursday held a protest here against human rights violations in Pakistan’s Sindh province. Click here to read
BNP sees no success in PM’s US visit- Asian Age
Stating that the Prime Minister’s visit to the USA has ‘no success’, BNP on Sunday alleged that the government wants to take international advantage by keeping the Rohingya problem alive. Click here to read
Sedition case: Three Rajshahi BNP leaders granted bail- Daily Observer
The three leaders are BNP Chairperson’s adviser and former Rajshahi City mayor Mizanur Rahman Minu, Rajshahi City BNP president Mosaddek Hossain Bulbul and general secretary Shafiqul HuqueMilon. Click here to read
UNGA ends without speeches by Afghan, Myanmar delegates- New Age
The United Nations General Assembly in New York ends Monday but without speeches by those in power in Afghanistan and Myanmar. Click here to read
‘Bangabandhu’s historic UNGA speech in Bangla was greatest day of Bangabandhu’s life’- The Independent
Father of the Nation of Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was the first Bangalee who made history by delivering the first Bangla speech, for the first time in its history, at the 29th the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 25, 1974. Click here to read
LPG pricing by BPC faces opposition from energy regulator, rights groups- Financial Express
A government move allowing BPC monopoly on pricing its liquefied petroleum gas, bypassing scrutiny, came under a broadside from both the country’s energy regulator and rights group. Click here to read
Bhutan
Are we normalising sexual harassment?- Kuensel
Playful age-old culture, many say, is being used to normalise sexual harassment today. The work place has changed from fields to offices and many now question if Bhutanese society is normalising sexual harassment in the name of culture. Click here to read
Let Climate Change not slide this time- Kuensel
The National Determined Contributions (NDC) synthesis report, published last week, reports on NDCs from all 191 Parties to the Paris Agreement. Click here to read
LG members to resign in the last week of October- Kuensel
The second local governments (LGs) will complete their terms in the last week of October. Click here to read
LDCs call for more climate finance- Kuensel
UN Climate Change published a report last week. Following the report, the Least Development Countries (LDC) called for deep emission cuts and scaled-up climate finance. Click here to read
Trucks ferrying boulders from Gelephu barred from plying via Meghalaya, India- Kuensel
Thirty-three trucks carrying boulders from Gelephu were stranded at the Assam-Meghalaya border in India for three weeks after being barred from entering Meghalaya on August 26. Click here to read
Dairy farmers start first yoghurt production firm in Dagana- Kuensel
Dagana’s deputy chief livestock officer, Pema Wangchuk, said that the 19-member dairy group was formed in 2014 to meet market demand for local milk, butter, and cheese. Click here to read
Bhutan is home to one of the most expensive mushrooms in the world- Daily Bhutan
Email There is even a festival for it, known as the Matsutake Mushroom Festival. There, you’ll get to sample various dishes prepared with this mushroom. Click here to read
Bhutan takes dog population management to another level- BBS
Today there are more than 72,000 dogs in the country and the number is only increasing. With it, there is an increase in dog bite cases and rabies outbreaks every year. To address this issue, the Livestock Department has come up with a strategy to achieve a hundred per cent sterilization of stray dogs. Click here to read
Implementing transformative pedagogy in schools effectively- Monggar- BBS
Transformative pedagogy is a teaching method that focuses more on engaging students in the learning process rather than a teacher giving lectures. Click here to read
Maldives
789 Covid-19 vaccination doses administered on Saturday – Raajje
According to the Health Protection Agency (HPA), Saturday’s vaccinations included 156 first doses administered to 104 atoll residents and 52 residents of the Greater Malé Region, as well as 633 second doses. Click here to read
India remains top source market for Maldives tourism as total arrivals top 843,552 – Raajje
With 191,824 visitors by the end of the third month of the ongoing year, neighboring India remains the top source market for Maldives tourism. Click here to read
Myanmar
Forever ‘engaging’ the Tatmadaw? – The Star
THE suffering of millions of our neighbors in Myanmar is fading from our radar, as the return of the Taliban in Afghanistan has raised fears of homegrown terrorists and lone wolves. Click here to read
Military assigns civilians administrative duties without its direct involvement: SAC chairman – Eleven Myanmar
Myanmar’s Tatmadaw (military) has assigned respective civilian administrative bodies without direct involvement with State administration as ruling over the public through armed bullying and fear is unacceptable, said Chairman of the State Administration Council and Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Click here to read
Military cuts off internet connection in 11 more townships in northwestern Myanmar -Myanmar Now
The junta cut off mobile internet access and most Wi-Fi services to 11 townships in war-torn areas of Chin State and Magway Region at 6pm on Thursday evening, according to locals and members of the local resistance forces in the area. Click here to read
It’s virtually certain no one will speak for Myanmar at U.N. – The Hindu
The dispute between Myanmar’s military rulers and the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi that they ousted about who should represent the country at the United Nations hasn’t been resolved. Click here to read
Risks of India getting sucked into Rakhine conflict – North East Now
A new book – “Irrawaddy Imperatives” by a serving Indian army brigadier Jaideep Chanda has pointed to the risks involved in Delhi getting militarily ‘sucked’ into the Rakhine conflict in Myanmar. Click here to read
Nepal
730 new Covid-19 cases surface on Sunday, active caseload drops to 19142- Himalaya
Nepal’s coronavirus caseload reached 791,392 on Sunday with 730 more people testing positive for the infection in the past 24 hours. Click here to read
‘CPN-UML will be defeated in polls’- Himalaya
Nepal Communist Party-Unified Socialist Chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal said that the CPN-UML would face defeat in the upcoming general elections. Click here to read
Schools to run classes in-person- Himalaya
A large number of urban migrants’ kids are back in their villages and are virtually attending classes in their schools based in Kathmandu valley. Click here to read
PM directs NA to identify security challenges- Himalaya
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has expressed commitment not to let the Nepali Army suffer on account of inadequacy of resources. Click here to read
Deuba is struggling. But what is Maoist Centre up to?- Kathmandu Post
It has intrigued many as to why Dahal, the leader of the key coalition partner, is not providing a list of ministers to the prime minister to help him expand the Cabinet. Click here to read
No need to disclose investment source raises money laundering risk- Kathmandu Post
A new provision in the Financial Act for this fiscal year that it would not seek source of income from investors if they are investing in infrastructure projects and businesses has raised a question of policy reversal. Click here to read
Indra Jatra observed amid fanfare- Kathmandu Post
The eight-day festival, celebrated mainly in the three districts of Kathmandu Valley, Dhulikhel and Dolakha, formally began with the installation of lingo (a sacred wooden pole) at Hanumandhoka Durbar Square on Saturday morning. Click here to read
(Opinion) Helping Nepal’s Covid orphans- Nepali Times
Nearly 11,000 Nepalis have lost their lives to Covid-19 since the outbreak began in January 2020, most of them in the age group 20-50, but there are also children under 18. Hundreds of children have become orphans in the wake of the pandemic. Click here to read
Red tax: Everything you should know about Nepal protest over sanitary pad price- OnlineKahabar
The budget subsequently increased the price of sanitary pads in the market, creating a hullaballoo on social media and the country. Click here to read
NC 14th general convention: Myagdi and Mustang District Committees get new leadership- Republica
New leadership has been elected in all local levels of Myagdi and Mustang districts under the 14th General Convention of the Nepali Congress (NC). Click here to read
Make arrangements for students who returned from China due to COVID-19 to go back: Parliamentary committee- Republica
A parliamentary committee has directed the government to immediately make arrangements for students who returned from China due to COVID-19 to back and continue their studies. Click here to read
Border Study Committee Submits Report to Home Minister- Rising Nepal
The Committee formed to study the border issue between Nepal and China submitted its report to the government on Sunday. Click here to read
PM welcomes inclusion of Karachi coastal uplift plan in CPEC: Dawn
Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday lauded the inclusion of Karachi’s coastal development plan in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and said the move would bring the city on a par with developed port cities of the world. Click here to read
FM Qureshi arrives in London on three-day official visit: The Express Tribune
Upon arrival at the Heathrow Airport, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK Moazzam Ahmad Khan and Deputy High Commissioner Dr Faisal Aziz and other senior officials of the High Commission welcomed the foreign minister. Click here to read
Pakistan allows Afghan airline to operate Islamabad-Kabul flights: The Express Tribune
Pakistan has allowed an Afghan airline to operate its flights from Islamabad to Kabul, a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) official said on Sunday. Click here to read
‘Pakistan seeks trade deals with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman’: The News
Pakistan will pursue individual trade deals with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Commerce Razak Dawood said on Sunday, as talks with the Gulf Cooperation Council remain stalled, foreign media reported. Click here to read
