Afghanistan

Islamic Emirate Introduces New Members of Caretaker Cabinet: Tolo News

The Islamic Emirate late Monday announced 38 new members of the caretaker government, in military and civil positions. Click here to read…

Passport Department Resumes Services to Afghans: Tolo News

The Passport Department of the Ministry of Interior Affairs on Tuesday announced the resumption of its services to Afghans, saying that at least 25,000 passports are ready to be issued in the first place. Click here to read…

ISIS-K claims responsibility for explosion on Eidgah mosque in Kabul: The Khaama Press

The Khorasan branch of the Islamic State (ISIS-K) claimed responsibility for the deadly explosion on the Eidgah mosque on Sunday, October 3. Click here to read…

School graduates of 2000-2020, of no use: Taliban’s higher education minister: The Khaama Press

The acting minister of the higher education of the Taliban Abdul Baqi Haqqani said that those who have graduated from high schools during the past twenty years are of no use. Click here to read…

Afghan Carpet Exports Fall as Air Corridor Stops Operating: Tolo News

Afghan merchants on Monday said that carpet exports have been significantly reduced due to the closure of air corridors. Domestic sales have also decreased, they said. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

DU likely to resume classes from October 16- Dhaka Tribune

The provost standing committee of Dhaka University (DU) has recommended to resume its in-person academic activities from October 16. Click here to read…

Will the BNP jettison Jamaat- Dhaka Tribune?

Flag of the BNP Younger leaders wish to cut ties The question of whether the major opposition party BNP will cut ties with its ally, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has been seriously discussed by the former recently. Click here to read…

Labour export market recovering as economies open again- Dhaka Tribune

Despite the Covid-19 situation improving thanks to mass vaccination drives across Asian countries, Bangladesh is yet to reap its benefits regarding the labour markets such as Malaysia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar. Click here to read…

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s climate leadership lauded at CVF-COP26 dialogue- Dhaka Tribune

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s climate leadership and the Mujib Climate Prosperity Decade Plan 2021-2030 have been highly praised at the 4th CVF-COP26 Dialogue in London. Click here to read…

Bangladesh Bank on dollar selling spree to keep taka steady- Daily Star

The foreign exchange regime has made an about-face in the last two months as the Bangladesh Bank continues to inject US dollars (USD) into the market to halt the depreciation of the local currency. Click here to read…

HC orders to shut down all dens of Rajarbagh Pir- The Observer

High Court has directed to shut down all the dens of so-called Rajarbagh pir Dillur Rahman to stop deceiving people in the name of religion. Click here to read…

Mahalaya being celebrated- The Observer

The Hindus in the country have been celebrating the Mahalaya, the auspicious occasion heralding the advent of goddess Durga. Click here to read…

Bhutan

First 180kW grid-tied solar plant in Ruebisa- Kuensel

Inching a step closer to Bhutan’s aim of energy security through a diversified and sustainable energy supply mix, a 180-kilowatt (kW) grid-tied solar power plant project was inaugurated yesterday at Ruebisa, Wangdue. Click here to read…

Construction of new bridge on Damchhu-Haa bypass will begin this week- Kuensel

More than seven months after the newly constructed Wangchhu bridge along the Damchhu-Haa bypass collapsed, work to build a new bridge over the river will begin on October 7. Click here to read…

Gov’t suspends walk-in vaccinations from next month- Kuensel

Starting November 1, Covid-19 vaccinations for walk-in individuals aged 12 years and above will be discontinued, according to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) issued yesterday. Click here to read…

Economy growth falls to negative 10.08 percent last year- Kuensel

Bhutan’s economy saw negative growth of 10.08 percent last year, compared with 5.75 percent in 2019, according to the National Statistics Bureau’s National Accounts Statistics 2021. Click here to read…

Thimphu Thromde to complete four-lane road by end of October- BBS

It won’t be long before the North Thimphu residents get to enjoy a smooth ride between Chubachu and Jungshina. The Thromde plans to complete constructing the much-awaited four-lane road connecting the two places by the end of this month. Click here to read…

Maldives

Pres declares 3rd October as National Tourism Day – Avas

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has declared 3rd October as National Tourism Day. Click here to read…

Japan provides USD three million grant aid to boost health sector capacity – Raajje

With an aim to boost the Maldives health sector capacity, the government of Japan has provided a grant aid of USD three million to the Maldivian government. Click here to read…

Wage Advisory Board recommends MVR 7,000 as minimum wage – Avas

According to the Minimum Wage Board’s recommendation, the minimum wage for the public sector was set by using the minimum monthly wage earned by permanent civil servants in six hours as a basemark. Click here to read…

0.08 percent rise in inflation rate in August – Avas

Inflation rate rose by 0.08 percent in August, official statistics have shown. The most recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) published by National Bureau of Statistics show the inflation rate was at 0.08 percent in August. The rate was at 2.80 percent in July. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Notorious Myanmar Military Commander to Lead Clearance Operations – The Irrawaddy

One of the Myanmar military regime’s most notorious commanders will lead clearance operations against civilian resistance fighters in the country’s most restive regions, according to a former army captain. Click here to read…

Why Singapore Should Solve Rohingya Refugee Crisis For Ensuring Greater Interest Of South East Asia – OpEd – Eurasia Review

It is Singapore who can make Myanmar realize about Rohingya repatriation. Singapore can be an ideal mediator in solving the Rohingya Refugee Crisis because Singapore has very good relations with both Myanmar and Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Eyewitness Gives Chilling Account of Rohingya Leader’s Killing in Bangladesh – RFA

A Rohingya day-laborer, who was in the room when gunmen killed prominent refugee community leader Muhib Ullah in southeastern Bangladesh, described in an interview with BenarNews how the intruders forced him and other eyewitnesses to the ground before they interrogated their target and shot him in cold blood.Click here to read…

Elderly Chin Christians Shot Dead by The Tatmadaw in Chin State – persecution.Org

Two elderly Christian men in Myanmar’s Chin state were killed in a car by the Burmese Army (Tatmadaw) as they entered the town of Thantlang to help its displaced villagers. Click here to read…

Five Tatmadaw killed, two PDF injured in clash – BNI Online

Fighting broke out between the Tatmadaw stationed at Kywe Chan Village Monastery and the Daung Min (King Peacock) Operation Force (TYC-PDF) in Thayet Chaung township Taung Pyauk district, Tanintharyi region on October 3. Click here to read…

Nepal

Cabinet expansion likely by tomorrow- Himalaya

The five-party ruling coalition has reached an agreement on sharing Cabinet portfolios. Click here to read…

National Women Commission gears up its activities- Himalaya

The National Women Commission has stepped up its activities in recent days. Click here to read…

207 petty criminals arrested in police operation- Himalaya

Police have arrested 207 petty criminals in the past 20 days from the capital in a covert operation conducted ahead of the festive season. Click here to read…

Deuba sending delegation to India as he walks diplomatic tightrope-TKP

Congress leaders, led by Prakash Sharan Mahat, are visiting Delhi on Thursday and are expected to meet BJP leaders and Jaishankar, the minister for external affairs. Click here to read…

Vero Cell doses bought through COVAX will arrive from November- TKP

Vero Cell vaccine doses bought from the COVAX facility through a cost-sharing mechanism are likely to be delivered starting November. Click here to read…

‘Fair criticism of court and verdicts does not amount to contempt of court’- TKP

In full text of verdict quashing petition seeking contempt charges against Kantipur, court emphasises freedom of expression and public opinions, even in sub judice cases. Click here to read…

Restoring a piece of Nepal’s history- Nepali Times

When an 8.3 magnitude earthquake hit Kathmandu in 1934, a three-storey temple in Patan collapsed. Eighty-two years later, just as work had officially started to rebuild it, the 2015 earthquake hit central Nepal. Click here to read…

Korea-bound workers called for completing official procedures for job placement- Republica

The South Korean government is resuming job placement for eligible Nepali workers that has been suspended for the past 20 months. Click here to read…

Dathu Baha fall made Bhaktapur realise the importance of communal space. Hence, they toiled hard to rebuild it- Online Khabar

Annually, the site is a must-visit during the Gunlaa festival, where devotees travel from bihars to bihars to pay respect to the deities. Click here to read…

NRB Allows Banks to Issue SBLC Of Up To $5 Million- Rising Nepal

Commercial banks and national level development banks in Nepal can now issue Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) to any firm, organisation or agency to run business activities and obtain loan in foreign countries. Click here to read…

Pakistan

At UN summit, PM Imran calls for ending ‘illicit’ flow of money from poor to rich capitals: Dawn

Prime Minister Imran Khan stressed on Tuesday the need to end the “illicit flow of money from poor countries to rich capitals, to tax havens, to haven destinations”, which he said was “crushing the people in the developing world”Click here to read…

Army huddle takes serious note of Indian army’s ‘malicious propaganda’, resolves to take measures: Dawn

The resolution in this regard was expressed during the 244th Corps Commanders Conference chaired by Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa at the GHQ. Click here to read…

Maryam draws public flak for targeting security institutions: The Express Tribune

Stooping to a new low, the Sharif family has levelled serious allegations against Pakistan’s security establishment just to appease “foreign forces and woo them” in a bid to pull them out of the legal quagmire. Click here to read…

Pakistan, Iran agree on ‘continued economic engagement’ with Afghanistan: The Express Tribune

The consensus was reached between the two sides during talks between Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and the visiting deputy foreign minister of Iran, Dr Ali Bagheri Kani. Click here to read…

COAS, Saudi Naval commander discuss Afghan situation: The Express Tribune

The Saudi naval commander called upon the army chief at General Headquarters (GHQ) during which matters of mutual interest, regional security situation and cooperation in military and maritime domains were discussed. Click here to read…

World Leaders Summit Dialogue: One trillion dollars being shifted to safe havens every year, says PM Imran Khan: The News

Prime Minister Imran Khan Tuesday called for prioritising vaccine equity, debt relief, climate finance and return of stolen wealth to developing countries. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Over 500,000 USD worth of PCR test kits and PCR test machines to Sri Lanka – The Island

Under the “Stay Strong” campaign, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Santhush Woonjin Jeong, at a ceremony held in the Foreign Ministry on 04 October 2021, handed over a donation of USD 500,000 which includes PCR test kits and PCR test machines to the Sri Lankan government. Click here to read…

EU hints possible changes to GSP+ – Daily FT

A top European Commission official yesterday highlighted areas of possible changes underway in the generation of European Union (EU) GSP+ preference by introducing more scrutiny to supply chains and sustainable development principles, whilst underscoring the benefits and optimal utilisation for economic growth. Click here to read…

784 persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT

Sri Lanka’s COVID-19 detections rose to 522,002 with 784 persons testing positive for COVID-19 yesterday. Click here to read…

President upbeat on stronger ties with India – Daily FT

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday appeared upbeat on stronger ties with India, extending an open invitation to investors saying the island nation needs the neighbouring giant’s help. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Daesh Hideout Targeted in Kabul: Mujahid: Tolo News

Zabihullah Mujahid, the deputy minister of information and culture, said that a Daesh hideout was eliminated in an operation by Islamic emirate forces on Sunday. Click here to read…

EU: Afghanistan Facing Socio-Economic Collapse: Tolo News

Afghanistan is facing a breakdown of its economic and social systems that risks turning into a humanitarian catastrophe, the European Union’s foreign policy chief said on Sunday. Click here to read…

Taliban to begin issuance of NIDs, Passport: The Khaama Press

The council of ministers of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has said that they will sooner begin issuance of the National IDs and passport in the country. Click here to read…

Afghan traders ask for facilitation in trades with neighboring countries: The Khaama Press

Afghanistan’s chamber of commerce and industry in a statement on Monday, October 4 said that they want more facilitation between them and the traders of the neighboring countries. Click here to read…

Afghanistan’s problems getting solved gradually: Taliban: The Khaama Press

The administration of affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in its official Facebook page said that the governance in Afghanistan is getting better. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Bangladesh-Bhutan business dialogue held- Dhaka Tribune

The event provided an opportunity to exchange ideas with the local business community on maximizing the benefits of the recently signed Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two countries. Click here to read…

Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp reconnecting after nearly six-hour outage- Dhaka Tribune

Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp lit up again early Tuesday in Bangladesh after a nearly six-hour outage that prevented the company’s 3.5 billion users from accessing its social media and messaging services. Click here to read…

Experts: Neutral election-time government necessary to give EC freedom- Dhaka Tribune

A neutral election-time government is necessary to give the Election Commission the freedom to function and perform without any outside influence, experts have said. Click here to read…

Padma boat tragedy: Death toll rises to 5- Dhaka Tribune

The death toll from last week’s tragic boat accident in the Padma River rose to five with the recovery of another child’s body on Monday. Click here to read…

Abdul Awal Mintoo’s Nepalese business partner Binod Chaudhary named in Pandora Papers- Dhaka Tribune

BNP leader Abdul Awal Mintoo’s name came in the Pandora Papers files, leaked on Sunday, as a partner of Nepalese business tycoon Binod Chaudhary. Click here to read…

High Prices of Essentials: Double blow for those with fixed income- Daily Star

Prices of almost all daily essentials have shot up in the kitchen market, adding woes to the fixed-income people who are reeling from the economic slowdown caused by the pandemic. Click here to read…

Foreign TV Channels: No bar to airing 24 ad-free ones- Daily Star

Information and Broadcasting Minister Hasan Mahmud yesterday said there was no bar to air the 24 ad-free foreign channels. Click here to read…

We are able to resist militancy: PM- Asian Age

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that Bangladesh is able to control and resist militancy. She laid emphasis on making people more aware of the detrimental effect of militancy and radicalism Click here to read…
.

‘ADB Bangladesh’s vital development partner’- Asian Age

AHM Mustafa Kamal stated that ADB is one of the most vital development partners of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Mohib Ullah’s killing part of int’l plot: BNP- The Observer

BNP standing committee has called for beefing up security at Rohingya camps as it thinks this community leader Mohib Ullah was shot dead as part of a deep-rooted “international conspiracy”. Click here to read…

Bhutan

His Majesty returns from Royal tour- Kuensel

His Majesty The King arrived in the capital today after a Royal tour during which His Majesty visited Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar, Tashiyangtse, and Tashigang. Click here to read…

Jail “protest” linked to mobile phone raid inside Chamgang prison- Kuensel

A video showing inmates at Chamgang central jail in Thimphu protesting against alleged police brutality has raised eyebrows. Click here to read…

DAMC develops strategies to address agricultural marketing challenges- Kuensel

The strategy has identified four issues in the present marketing scenario. Click here to read…

Torma, the multipurpose Buddhist ritual cake- Daily Bhutan

A torma is a ritual cake. It holds different meanings. It could symbolise a deity, act as an offering, or even be used as a medicine. Click here to read…

A better respite for our elderlies- Bhutan Times

For the population 65 years and above and people living with disabilities who present to health facilities for numerous health problems and taking different medications can become overwhelming. Click here to read…

Bracing for new tourism standards- Bhutan Times

The Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) has developed an operational guideline for tourism services to guide the stakeholders in the tourism industry to operate in the “new normal era”. Click here to read…

TCB listed world 75 most innovative organizations- Bhutan Times

Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) has been listed among the World’s 75 Most Innovative Organizations in Tourism Policy 2021. Click here to read…

Residents in Omchuna grapple with water shortage- BBS

After the development of Shaychamthang village in Gakiling Gewog in Sarpang into a satellite town in 2017, the water supply to an adjacent village Omchuna was discontinued. Since then, Omchuna village has been plagued with water shortage. Click here to read…

Another leap in Bhutan’s sustainable energy endeavour- BBS

Bhutan is inching closer towards its dream of energy security through a diversified and sustainable energy supply mix. On Monday, the economic affairs ministry (MoEA) officially inaugurated the country’s first grid-tied solar power plant in Ruebisa gewog, Wangdue Phodrang. Click here to read…

Nepal

Take up border issue with Beijing, Home Ministry asks Foreign Ministry- TKP

A week after a panel submitted its report recommending the formation of a joint boundary inspection team to address the boundary issues between Nepal and China in line with the Nepal-China Joint Boundary Treaty. Click here to read…

CPN (US) Chair Nepal discharged from hospital- Himalaya

Chairperson of the CPN (Unified Socialist), Madhav Kumar Nepal, has been discharged from Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital today. Click here to read…

Gandhi Jayanti celebrated- Himalaya

On the occasion of the 152nd Gandhi Jayanti, an art exhibition on the theme ‘Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy for a better world’ was inaugurated by Charge d’affaires of the Indian embassy Namgya Khampa at Nepal Art Council, Kathmandu. Click here to read…

Province 2 sees rise in drowning incidents-TKP

Two hundred and eighty-five cases of death by drowning were reported in eight districts of Province 2 in the past 27 months, according to the data of the Provincial Police Office in Janakpur. Click here to read…

As chief justice comes under scrutiny, concerns grow if the rot has set in

Judiciary head getting caught into controversy over ‘bargains’ with executive when legislature is dysfunctional bodes ill for democracy and constitution, observers say. Click here to read…

Govt once again bans import of peppercorns, peas, dates, and betel nuts- Republica

The government has banned completely the import of peppercorns, peas, dates, and betel nuts. Click here to read…

Will an ascent of Manaslu ‘true summit’ end a historic debate on Nepal mountains?- Online Khabar

When Mingma Gyalje Sherpa (better known as Mingma G) announced that he was going to the “true summit” of Manaslu this autumn, everyone was sceptical. Why would not they be? No one had been there for the past 45 years. Click here to read…

Experts worried about negative economic indicators- Rising Nepal

Nepal’s economy is now in an alarming situation with growing negative macroeconomic indicators, said the economists. Click here to read…

India, Nepal to discuss border issues from Tuesday- India TV

The 12-member SSB delegation will be led by DG Kumar Rajesh Chandra while the nine-member Nepalese side will be headed by the APF’s IG Shailendra Khanal. Click here to read…

Oli’s nationalism, Prachanda’s insecurity and the Hindu politics of India, Nepal- Hindustan Times

When the country witnessed a devastating earthquake and promulgated its Constitution in 2015. Click here to read…

Maldives

Upon President Solih’s invitation, PGA Shahid schedules official visit to Maldives – Raajje

Upon the invitation of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, President of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (PGA), Abdulla Shahid is scheduled to visit the Maldives this week. Click here to read…

Maldives reports 65 new Covid-19 cases, 92 recoveries – Raajje

By sundown on Monday, the country’s active coronavirus case count sat at 1,477, according to the latest figures publicized by the Health Protection Agency (HPA). Click here to read…

Myanmar

SOUTHWARD PUSH: How will China’s influence affect conflict-ridden Shan State? – Mizzima

At a time when the world has its eye on the worsening crisis in Myanmar – in which the main focus is on the conflict between the junta’s military and the people – a nasty spat between Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAO) in Shan State may beggar belief. Click here to read…

Open Letter To Russian President Vladimir Putin: Russia Could Easily Solve Rohingya Refugee Crisis – OpEd – Eurasia Review

His Excellency Mr. President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, please help us. Please help the Bangladeshi people. You and your country can easily solve the refugee crisis. Bangladesh is in trouble with Rohingyas, this time Dhaka is on the doorstep of Russia to return the refugees. Click here to read…

ASEAN ‘disappointed’ with Myanmar military’s peace commitment – Aljazeera

Myanmar’s military has made no significant progress in implementing a Southeast Asian roadmap for peace following their coup or given any feedback on the work of a regional envoy in the country, Indonesia’s foreign minister has said. Click here to read…

Pakistan

High-powered cell formed to investigate offshore firm owners: Dawn

Prime Minis¬ter Imran Khan on Monday formed a high-powered cell to investigate if any irregularity had been committed by the 700 Pakistanis named in the Pandora Papers. Click here to read…

Govt not part of talks with TTP, claims Fazl: Dawn

Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has downplayed Prime Minister Imran Khan’s statement that the government is in talks with some groups of banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Click here to read…

PM Imran launches Kamyab Pakistan Programme: The Express Tribune

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday launched the Kamyab Pakistan Program (KPP) worth Rs1,400 billion with an aim to uplift 3.7 million households across the country. Click here to read…

Pakistan, China joint anti-terrorist exercise concludes: The Express Tribune

This is the first-ever military exercise conducted in Pakistan under the ambit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS), the military’s media wing said. Click here to read…

Nepra allows Discos to collect additional Rs1.65 per unit: The News

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) on Monday revised the quarterly adjustments of the power cost for consumers by Rs 0.03/unit to Rs 1.65 for 2021/22 against Rs 1.62 of last year. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Pandora Papers: ICIJ’s Questions To Nirupama Rajapaksa & Thirukumar Nadesan – Colombo Telegraph

Former Sri Lanka Minister and a niece of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Nirupama Rajapaksa’s name has been mentioned in Pandora Papers. Click here to read…

Hold provincial council polls without delay, India urges Sri Lanka – The Hindu

India has urged Sri Lanka to hold elections to its provincial councils without further delay, according to the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) whose delegation met visiting Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday. Click here to read…

GoSL Debt Up Rs 1.63 Trillion – Ceylon Today

Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) debt increased by 10.81 per cent (Rs 1,634.5 billion or by Rs 1.63 trillion) to Rs 16,751.7 billion (Rs 16.75 trillion) by end July 2021 compared to Rs 15,117.2 billion (Rs 15.12 trillion) by end December 2020, latest Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) data showed. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka to boost tourism, trade and investment via World Expo – Dubai – Daily FT

Sri Lanka aims to boost tourism, investments and exports through its participation in the six-month World Expo 2020 in Dubai — the largest global gathering since the outbreak of the COVID pandemic. Click here to read…

Basil talks of boosting bilateral ties with Indian Foreign Secy. – Daily FT

Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and his delegation yesterday called on Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa yesterday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Explosion Occurs Near Kabul Mosque, Casualties Reported:Tolo News

An explosion occurred near the gate of Eid Gah Mosque in Kabul on Sunday afternoon, said Zabihullah Mujahid, the deputy minister for culture and information ministry. Click here to read…

Islamabad Engages in Afghanistan-Hosted Talks With TTP: Tolo News

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said that his country seeks the support of the Islamic Emirate in peace talks with the Tehreek-i- Taliban of Pakistan. Click here to read…

Taliban eliminates ISIS-K hideout in north of Kabul: The Khaama Press

The Taliban fighters reportedly conducted operations in Kabul’s northern suburb-Police District 17, Khair Khana- eliminating a safe haven of the ISIS Khorasan branch. Click here to read…

Afghanistan will lose electricity if debts not paid off: former officials: The Khaama Press

The Wall Street Journal has quoted a number of former officials of De Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS)- electricity firm of Afghanistan- that if the central Asian countries are not paid their money, Afghanistan may not have electricity in the upcoming winter season. Click here to read…

70% of Afghan media outlets stopped working since Taliban takeover: The Khaama Press

National Association of Journalists in Kabul said that due to financial problems, 70 percent of media outlets stopped working in Afghanistan since the Taliban took over the country. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Thakurgaon preparing for Durga Puja at 465 mandaps this year- Daily Star

Preparations for the celebrations of Sharodiya Durga Puja Utsab, the biggest religious festival of the Bangalee Hindus, are going on in full swing in Thakurgaon. Click here to read…

This day in history (04 October)- Daily Star

2002 – Nepal’s King Gyanendra dismissed prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and took over the government. Click here to read…

HC asks ACC to capture real money launderers- Dhaka Tribune

The High Court on Sunday told the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to focus on capturing the “real” large-scale money launderers instead of businessmen. Click here to read…

Whistle-blower says Facebook put profit before reining in hate speech- Dhaka Tribune

Facebook has been under fire after the Journal published a series of stories based on Facebook internal presentations and emails. Click here to read…

Dipu Moni: Preparations underway to vaccinate students aged 12 and above- Dhaka Tribune

Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni on Sunday said the government had given its approval to vaccinate students over the age of 12 years to beat the ongoing pandemic. Click here to read…

World Animal Day 2021: Bangladesh must keep up efforts to protect biodiversity- Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh has made significant strides in protecting its biodiversity in recent years, but the government must stay vigilant against threats to wildlife, zoology experts told Dhaka Tribune. Click here to read…

Dhaka pledges ‘justice’ for murdered Rohingya activist- Asian Age

Bangladesh on Saturday promised to mete out justice to the killers of a prominent Rohingya rights activist. Click here to read…

PM to brief media today on UN visit- Asian Age

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will address a press conference today at 4 pm from her official residence. Click here to read…

Carpeting on Padma Bridge to begin in November: Quader- The Observer

Road Transport and Bridges said the carpeting work on the main structure of the Padma Bridge would begin in the first week of November. Click here to read…

US sends more than 8 mln Covid vaccines to Bangladesh, Philippines- The Independent

The United States announced Friday it is sending more than eight million Covid-19 vaccine doses to Bangladesh and the Philippines in the latest wave of aid to a world still struggling to tame the pandemic. Click here to read…

14 armed groups active in the Rohingya camps- Prothom Alo

Around 14 armed criminal gangs are active in the 34 Rohingya refugee camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf upazila in Cox’s Bazar. Click here to read…

Bhutan

How digital cash can lift gross national happiness in Bhutan- Mint

The central bank’s desire to take cash digital could create opportunities for blockchain-based decentralized finance. Hopefully, it won’t use up too much energy and will leave people happier than they are now. Click here to read…

What the world can learn from Bhutan’s rapid Covid vaccine rollout- The Print

Despite having 376 doctors and few nurses, across just three weeks in summer, Bhutan delivered a second vaccine dose to nearly every adult in the country. Click here to read…

Giving elderly their due- Kuensel

Every year, October will be observed as the month for the elderly. Click here to read…

Judiciary to come up with SOP to resolve monetary disputes- Kuensel

The judiciary will come up with a separate standard of procedure (SOP) to resolve monetary disputes that are not included in the Rules and Regulations for Registered Private Money Lenders (RRRPML) 2021. Click here to read…

Yoeseltse Gewog struggling to guard crops against livestock from across the border- Samtse- BBS

Heat, rain and cold have not deterred the armed force personnel and DeSuups from guarding Bhutan’s porous border amid the pandemic. Click here to read…

NI-TAG expects to roll out the second dose of COVID vaccine for adolescents within this month- BBS

The National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NI-TAG) expects to roll out the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccines for the remaining adolescents aged 12 to 17 years within this month. Click here to read…

Fiscal deficit drops to 7.08% in the 4th quarter- Business Bhutan
The improvement in the fiscal deficit is also due to the increase in the resources under the budgetary grants. Click here to read…

Bhutan’s debate over controlling tourism- Carwan

The country’s tourism policy is guided by Gross National Happiness, a multidimensional strategy of development pioneered by Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Click here to read…

Maldives

Man who threatened to bomb Indian high commission, released from police custody- Raajje

The man arrested for threatening to bomb the Indian High Commission in Maldives, has been released. Click here to read…

South Korean Ambassador committed to explore endless opportunities to build Maldives-Korea ties – Raajje

There are endless opportunities to build the ties between Maldives and Korea, on many spheres, says Ambassador of Korea to the Maldives, Woonjin JEONG. Click here to read…

Maldives attaches great importance to the historical relationship with China: FM Shahid – Raajje

In commemoration of China’s national day, FM Shahid posted a Tweet extending sincere greetings to the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Maldives Wang Lixin, the government and friendly people of China on the auspicious occasion, noting that Maldives looks forward to “greater interactions” on enhancing cooperation in the future between the two countries. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Fighting rages despite unilateral ceasefire in Myanmar – UCA News

Christian-dominated areas in Myanmar continue to witness intense fighting between the military and disparate resistance groups even after the ruling junta announced a unilateral five-month ceasefire on Sept. 27. Click here to read…

UN Says Poverty in Myanmar at Worst Level in 20 Years Following Coup – The Irrawaddy

The UN’s top humanitarian official in Myanmar said on Thursday the country’s people are living in “a severe crisis,” with a level of poverty not seen for at least 20 years. Click here to read…

Karen Armed Group Ambushes Myanmar Junta Regional Commander – The Irrawaddy

The southeastern commander of Myanmar’s junta has survived an ambush by a Karen rebel group during his trip to Myawaddy Township, Karen State, on Friday, according to the Karen media. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Military Junta Has Long-Term Power Plans – The News Lens

The Myanmar military junta seems to be here to stay after extending its emergency rule until at least until August 2023. But what does it plan to do in the next two years? Click here to read…

Killing of top Rohingya leader underscores violence in Bangladesh camps – Reuters

For years, Rohingya leader Mohib Ullah, one of the most prominent advocates for the persecuted Muslim minority from Myanmar, predicted he would be killed by the hardliners who regularly sent him death threats. Click here to read…

Nepal

Nepal-India Military Training Concludes- The Rising Nepal

The Nepal-India joint military exercise named Ex. Surya Kiran-XV concluded on Saturday. Held in Pithoragarh of India from September 20 to October 2, the training was of the Battalion level. Click here to read…

‘Nepal is open for tourism. We invite tourists from all over the world to come and explore the beauty of this Himalayan nation.’- Nepal Live Today

Political leadership needs to understand that without the right infrastructure, we won’t be able to make visiting tourists stay longer in Nepal. Click here to read…

Meet record-holding Sherpa mountaineer who led Manaslu climbers to true summit- Himalaya

Renowned Nepali climber Mingma Gyalje Sherpa and his team reached the true summit and highest point of Mt Manaslu in the autumn season. Click here to read…

CPN-UML trying to finish off democracy, statute, says Paudel- Himalaya

Senior Nepali Congress leader Ramchandra Paudel today said that the main opposition CPN-UML had obstructed the House of Representatives to finish off the democracy and the statute. Click here to read…

CPN-UML’s statute general convention kicks off- Himalaya

The first statute general convention of the CPN-UML has kicked off at Godawari-based Sunrise Conference Centre. Click here to read…

Directly elected prime minister idea floated at UML convention- TKP

Observers warn against the idea saying that it will make the executive more autocratic. Click here to read…

Behind the facade of UML’s pomposity lies some unease and discomfort- TKP

Party’s statute congress ends setting sights on polls, but representatives say they have a big battle to fight in the form of elections, as everyone has turned against them. Click here to read…

The Gorkhali defeat at Kangra- Nepali Times

The fortress at Kangra looks majestic in the rain, as monsoon clouds drift across its stone ramparts like lace curtains. The lush green mountains appear fresh after a night of rain, as though newly painted. Click here to read…

NOC may hike petroleum prices any time as fuel prices have soared in int’l market- Republica

Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has projected its fortnightly loss to stand over Rs 1.50 billion at the new price rates that the corporation received recently from the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Click here to read…

UML to hold 10th Gen Convention in Butwal on Nov 26-28- KhabarHub

The opposition CPN (UML) on Sunday concluded its first statute convention with the commitment to advance the country’s campaign for transformation and prosperity by taking people’s fresh mandate. Click here to read…

Nepal’s only billionaire, 15 other affluent people named in Pandora Papers- ANI

Nepal’s only billionaire (as per the Forbes) Binod Chaudhary and 15 other people have been named in “Pandora Papers”, a sequel of ‘Panama Papers’ who has been using tax havens for money laundering. Click here to read…

Vehicular movement resumes through Indo-Nepal border- Hindustan Times

Vehicular movement along the Indo-Nepal border resumed on Friday morning, nearly 18 months after it was suspended following the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic in March last year. Click here to read…

2 Indians Among 3 Arrested for Illegal Hundi Transaction In Nepal- NDTV

Three persons, including two Indian nationals, were arrested from Birgunj Metropolitan City in southern Nepal on Friday for alleged involvement in running illegal Hundi transactions and evading tax, police said. Click here to read…

US museum returns stolen 10th-century Shiva statue to Nepal- Times of India

A United States museum has returned to Nepal a 10th-century Shiva statue, which belonged to Kankeswari Temple in Kathmandu and was stolen in 1995Click here to read…
.

Pakistan

Govt assailed over unilateral TTP talks: Dawn

Rejecting Prime Minister Imran Khan’s “unilateral” decision to offer amnesty to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and “inconsistent” statements of cabinet members on the issue, opposition parties on Sunday. Click here to read…

Shaukat Tarin, Moonis Elahi among over 700 Pakistanis named in ICIJ’s Pandora Papers: Dawn

The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) on Sunday unveiled “Pandora Papers” — a major international research into the financial secrets held by high-profile individuals around the world. Click here to read…

Talks to revive $6 billion IMF package next week: The Express Tribune

The five-day round of technical discussions will virtually begin on October 4, with the IMF team joining from Doha, Qatar. Click here to read…

Pakistan-Iran border reopens for pedestrians: The Express Tribune

According to sources, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has also begun the regular immigration process at the Taftan border, allowing Pakistani citizens to enter Iran. Click here to read…

Electoral reforms: PM Imran Khan directs NA speaker to negotiate with opposition: The News

Prime Minister Imran Khan has handed over the task of negotiating with the Opposition regarding electoral reforms to Speaker of the National Assembly Asad Qaiser, Geo News reported Sunday. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

President’s cousin named in Pandora Papers: luxury apartment and art deals revealed

Nirupama Rajapaksa, Former Minister and Cousin of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has been named in the Pandora Papers which is a leak of almost 12 million documents that reveal the hidden wealth of the world’s most powerful leaders. Click here to read…

Indian foreign secretary arrives in Sri Lanka – Adaderana

The Foreign Secretary of India, Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla arrived in Sri Lanka this evening (October 02) for a four-day official visit. He is undertaking this visit to the island nation from October 02 – 05 at the invitation of his Sri Lankan counterpart, Admiral Prof. Jayanath Colombage. Click here to read…

Indian Foreign Secy inspects Trinco Oil Farm – Ceylon Today

India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh V. Shringla who arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday (2) paid a visit to the Trincomalee oil farms yesterday (3), where he was briefed by the Lanka Indian Oil Company (LIOC). Click here to read…

Indian Contingent for Exercise ‘Mithra Shakti’ Arrives – Army IK

A contingent of 120 Army personnel of the Indian Army this afternoon (2) arrived at Mattala International Airport to participate in the 8th consecutive iteration of the joint Exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ between Sri Lanka and India. Click here to read…

Pandora Papers: Secret wealth and dealings of world leaders exposed – BBC

The secret wealth and dealings of world leaders, politicians and billionaires has been exposed in one of the biggest leaks of financial documents. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Afghan State Collapse Rooted in Doha Deal: US Officials: Tolo News

Senior Pentagon officials said Wednesday the collapse of the Afghan government and its security forces in August could be traced to a 2020 U.S. agreement. Click here to read…

Airspace Revenue Drops, Airline Industry Struggling: Tolo News

The suspension of airline flights has harmed the airline industry and the closing of Afghan airspace has caused revenue to plummet, industry analysts said. Click here to read…

Pakistan eliminates gate pass at Torkham crossing point: The Khaama Press

Pakistan’s ambassador to Kabul Mansoor Ahamd Khan said that Prime Minister Imran Khan has ordered the elimination of gate pass at the Torkham border to facilitate the movement of Afghan people to Pakistan. Click here to read…

EU allocated over $300 million in humanitarian aid for Afghan people: The Khaama Press

President of the European Union Ursula Von der Leyen on Wednesday, September 29 said that they have allocated US$ 348.2 million in humanitarian aid for the people of Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Afghanistan central bank drained dollars before Taliban takeover: World bank: The Khaama Press

An assessment prepared for Afghanistan’s international donors indicates that the central bank of Afghanistan-De Afghanistan bank- drained $1.5 billion before the Afghan capital collapse to the Taliban. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

UN, US condemn killing of Rohingya leader Mohib Ullah- Daily Star

The United Nations and United States on Thursday spoke out over the killing of Rohingya refugee leader Mohib Ullah and called on Bangladeshi authorities to investigate his shooting. Click here to read…

85 more news portals including Prothom Alo, The Daily Star e-papers approved to register- Daily Star

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry yesterday granted approval to 85 more online news portals for being registered. Click here to read…

Money Laundering: Charges against ex-minister’s brother, 9 others accepted- Daily Star

A Dhaka court yesterday accepted charges against 10 people, including Khandaker Mohtesam Hossain Babar, the brother of former Awami League minister Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain. Click here to read…

Who is behind the murder of Rohingya leader Mohib Ullah?- Dhaka Tribune

Family blames Rohingya militants; police yet to detain anyone. Click here to read…

Quader: National polls on time, with or without BNP- Dhaka Tribune

The minister terms the BNP’s call for an election-time government ‘crazy and childish’. Click here to read…

Indictment hearing in two cases against Khaleda on Oct 14- Asian Age

A court here on Thursday set October 14 for holding hearing on charge framing in two cases lodged against BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia on the charges of celebrating fake birthday on National Mourning Day. Click here to read…

Charge sheet against Ex-DG of Health submitted by ACC- Observer

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Thursday pressed charges against six people, including former director general of the Directorate General of Health Service. Click here to read…

Pran Gopal Dutta takes oath as MP- Observer

Newly-elected Member of Parliament (MP) from the Cumilla-7 constituency Dr Pran Gopal Dutta took the oath of office at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Thursday. Click here to read…

Bangabandhu-Bapu digital exhibition begins at BSA- The Independent

The Bangabandhu-Bapu digital exhibition was opened for public viewing at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) on Saturday. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Farmers lose crops to rainstorm- Kuensel

Two chiwogs of Toetsho gewog in Trashiyangtse experienced heavy rains for about three hours after 1pm on September 28, which ruined about 15 acres of maize belonging to more than 40 households. Click here to read…

RNR sector sees spike in its GDP share- Kuensel

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) share of the Renewable Natural Resource (RNR) sector increased in the 12th Plan. Click here to read…

Government to be neutral on Afghanistan’s Taliban government: Sources- Kuensel

Bhutan is likely to take a “neutral” stand on the issue of recognition of the Taliban government, which had asked to address the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York, according to sources. Click here to read…

Ambassador to Australia presents credentials- Kuensel

Ambassador of Bhutan to the Commonwealth of Australia Sonam Tobgay presented his credentials virtually to Governor General David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia. Click here to read…

Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck donated much needed medical equipment to the hospitals in Bhutan- Daily Bhutan

The Gyalyum Charitable Trust (GCT) on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck, donated a second round of medical equipment and COVID-19 relief goods including Oxygen Concentrators. Click here to read…

Bhutanese economy shrinks to an all time low of -10.08 %- BBS

The Bhutanese economy shrank to an all-time low of minus 10.08 per cent last year amid the pandemic. It is almost a 16 per cent drop as compared to a growth of 5.46 per cent in 2019. Click here to read…

Bhutan to soon have 5G- BBS

Bhutan Telecom is testing 5G network in its premises which will soon be commercially launched while TashiCell plans to launch the network before the year ends. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives signs agreement with India on enhancing marine security, environment protection – Raajje

The MoU signed on Thursday on the occasion of the World Maritime Day, is titled “Augmenting Marine Safety, Security and Environment Protection in the Region through the Cooperation in the Long-Range Identification and Tracking of Ships System”. Click here to read…

Maldives faces climate change ‘death sentence’ – New Zealand Herald

The United Nations recognizes 38 member states, scattered across the world’s waters, as small island developing states grouped together because they face “unique social, economic and environmental challenges.” Click here to read…

Accident Report Into Maldives Seaplane Crash Raises Concerns That Deteriorating Skills Of Furloughed Pilots May Pose Safety Risk – Smart Aviation

Accident investigators in the Maldives, who have issued a report into last year’s crash of a Trans Maldivian Airways seaplane, have identified pilot error as a cause of the accident, raising safety concerns that the flying skills of some furloughed pilots may have deteriorated. Click here to read…

Myanmar

UN official says Myanmar’s people are in ‘a severe crisis’ – APNEWS

Andrew Kirkwood said in a virtual briefing to U.N. correspondents that the number of people in the country needing aid has tripled to 3 million since the military takeover on Feb. 1 while a total of 20 million are living in poverty, or nearly half the population. Click here to read…

Myanmar Army Condemns Economic Situation with COVID-19 Wave – Texas News Today

Myanmar’s economic hardship is caused by two waves of COVID-19 infection, and the government is doing its best to resolve the situation as soon as possible, military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said Thursday. Said to. The central bank also failed to meet local demand for the dollar, he said at a news conference after the chat currency hit a new low this week. He said the government would take full responsibility.
Click here to read…

Interview: Junta Administration in Myanmar’s Rakhine State ‘Has Totally Collapsed, Says Former MP – RFA

Myanmar’s Arakan Army (AA) ethnic armed organization (EAO) has been beefing up its administrative and judiciary mechanisms in western Myanmar’s Rakhine state during the past 10 months of a cease-fire negotiated with the army before its military coup. Click here to read…

SAC Suspends Internet Across Chin State – BNI Online

The State Administrative Council has shut down the Internet in eight of the nine townships in Chin State in the face of a major outbreak of COVID-19 and during battles with civil resistance forces in which it suffered heavy casualties. With the exception of Hakha Township, connectivity was cut off everywhere at 6pm on 23 September.Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Announces ‘Goodwill’ Ceasefire With Ethnic Armed Groups –

The Diplomat

Myanmar’s military junta has reportedly announced a unilateral five-month ceasefire with the country’s raft of ethnic armed organizations, as it faces intensifying and increasingly widespread resistance to its rule. Click here to read…

Nepal

Active caseload drops to 18168 as death toll moves to 11135- Himalaya

Nepal’s coronavirus caseload reached 795,061 on Thursday with 898 more people testing positive for the infection in the past 24 hours. Click here to read…

Dark future? Climate change fuels higher heat, flood threats for children- Himalaya

Children around the world will face a sharp jump in heatwaves, floods and droughts in their lives compared to their grandparents, researchers said on Monday. Click here to read…

Indian grant assisted projects inaugurated- Himalaya

Anurag Srivastava, Joint-secretary (North), Ministry of External Affairs of India, jointly inaugurated six newly reconstructed schools in Kavre. Click here to read…

Nepali state has lied, once again, on transitional justice, conflict victims say- TKP

Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Khadka said that the government is committed to concluding the transitional justice process through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the CommissionClick here to read…

Legal hurdle in Cabinet expansion as ruling-opposition deadlock persists- TKP

An all-party meeting called by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Thursday to seek ways to end the ongoing House obstruction was unsuccessful. Click here to read…

First in 45 years, 22 climbers make rare autumn ascent of Manaslu main summit-TKP

Led by Mingma Sherpa, better known as Mingma G, 14 Nepali and eight foreign climbers achieved the rare feat on September 27 for the first time in 45 years. Click here to read…

Helping Nepal’s Covid orphans- Nepali Times

An estimated 1,200 children who lost their parents to the pandemic struggle to get by. Click here to read…

NRB seeks to implement digital currency system to minimize use of hard cash- Republica

Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has started a study on the possibility of using digital currency in the country, with an aim to minimize the use of paper notes. Click here to read…

Nepal, India review progress of post-earthquake reconstruction projects- Republica

Nepal and India on Thursday held a Joint Project Monitoring Committee (JPMC) meeting on post-earthquake reconstruction projects in Kathmandu. Click here to read…

Envoys from Germany, France, Norway and Egypt present their credentials to President Bhandari- Republica

he Newly-appointed ambassadors of various four countries to Nepal have presented Letters of Credence to President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Thursday. Click here to read…

Gilles Bourbao, the new French ambassador to Nepal, presents his credentials- Online Khabar

Gilles Bourbao, the new French ambassador to Nepal, presented his letters of credence to President Bidya Devi Bhandari, on Thursday. Click here to read…

Over 70% People Vaccinated in Kathmandu Valley- Rising Nepal

A total of 1,622,441 people have been given the first dose and 1,562,734 people have received the full dose of vaccine. The target population of Kathmandu Valley to immunise is 2,129,773 above 18 years of age. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Govt increases petrol price by Rs4 per litre from Oct 1: Dawn

The government on Thursday increased the price of petrol by Rs4 per litre and that of high speed diesel (HSD) by Rs2 per litre. Click here to read…

Pace of CPEC projects would be accelerated: PM Imran: The Express Tribune

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday said the pace of China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects would be accelerated as some were delayed after the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic. Click here to read…

Pakistan participates in international military training moot in China: The Express Tribune

The representatives from 49 countries including Pakistan attended the International Military Flight Training Conference 2021 held in Zhuhai, China. Click here to read…

Army captain martyred, TTP commander killed: The News

A young officer of Pakistan Army Captain Sikandar Sohail Latif was martyred in exchange of fire with terrorist in Tank, the ISPR said on Thursday. Click here to read…

Govt, opposition trade barbs over road projects: The News

The government and opposition on Thursday pointed fingers at each other over roads projects a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that the projects of the PMLN would be investigated. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

German Military Attachés on a working visit to Colombo – Daily Mirror

The two German military officers responsible for Sri Lanka, Capt Gerald Koch and LtCol Jan Cihar, will be in the country from October 3rd – 8th, 2021, a statement from the German embassy said. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka inflation at 5.7-pct in September 2021, food prices soar – Economynext

Sri Lanka’s inflation in the capital Colombo was 5.7 percent in the 12-month to September, slowing from 6.0 in July, though prices rose 0.4 percent during the month, data from the state debt office showed.

Sri Lanka’s rupee is under severe pressure from liquidity injections which were not prevented by the Central Bank’s 4-6 percent inflation target. Click here to read…

SL seals biggest-ever investment in port sector – Daily FT

Sri Lanka yesterday sealed the biggest-ever investment in to the port sector worth $ 650 million with joint project promoters – India’s giant Adani, local blue chip John Keells Holdings (JKH) and the State-owned SLPA signing the Build, Own and Transfer (BOT) deal for the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT). Click here to read…

‘Vaccination, travel restrictions reduced COVID numbers’ – The Island

Vaccination and travel restriction had contributed to the drop in COVID-19 infections, Deputy Director General of Health Services, Dr. Hemantha Herath told the media yesterday. Click here to read…

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, Bangladesh discuss economic, trade cooperation in post-pandemic era: People’s Daily

September 30, 2021

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

Afghanistan

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

Afghanistan

After Recognition We Will Address Rights Issues: Mujahid: Tolo News

Zabihullah Mujahid, deputy minister of the Ministry of Information and Culture of the caretaker cabinet, said on Monday that if the international community recognizes the new government, they will address the concerns over allegations of human rights violations.
Click here to read…

IMF Funds for Afghanistan ‘On Hold,’ Says Spokesman: Tolo News

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently announced a $650 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocation for member countries, but Afghanistan at the moment will not be allowed to access these funds.
Click here to read…

China to provide unconditional aid to Afghanistan by winter: The Khaama Press

Chinese ambassador to Kabul Wang yu said that his country is prepared to continue his country’s unconditional humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan.
Click here to read…

ISIS-K claims responsibly for blasts in Nangarhar province: The Khaama Press

The Khurasan branch of Islamic State (ISIS-K) has claimed that they have conducted three blasts on Saturday, September 18 and one the following day in the capital city-Jalalabad- of eastern Nangarhar province.
Click here to read…

Ex-Officials Seek Urgent Attention as Banking Crisis Deepens: Tolo News

As the banking crisis deepens in Afghanistan, some senior officials from the previous administration at a meeting on Monday asked immediate attention by the US government and the Taliban to make sure Afghan reserves are unfrozen as a short-term solution to the current crisis in the country.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh

PM plants tree, unveils bench dedicated to Bangabandhu at UN gardens- Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday planted a honey locust tree and unveiled a bench at UN gardens.
Click here to read…

First Phase Up Polls: Three killed as violence rules the day- Daily Star

At least three people were killed and dozens others injured in clashes between supporters of ruling Awami League’s chairman candidates and party rebels.
Click here to read…

Strictly implement Paris accord- Daily Star

Sheikh Hasina has asked global leaders to take stronger steps urgently to address the planetary emergency of climate change.
Click here to read…

Child Marriage: Creeping through the pandemic- Daily Star

Eighty-five girl students out of 345 of Baravita Girls High School in Kurigram’s Phulbari upazila have been married off during the closure of the school amid the pandemic.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh to get vaccines from India as priority- Dhaka Tribune

India is set to resume export under “Vaccine Maitri” in the fourth quarter starting from October.
Click here to read…

Covid-19: Less than 10% fully vaccinated in Bangladesh- Dhaka Tribune

Less than 10% of the country’s population has been fully vaccinated despite the frantic efforts of the government.
Click here to read…

Four new sectors to get cash assistance on export- The Daily Observer

The government has taken a decision to provide export incentive or cash assistance to four new sectors for the current fiscal year 2021-22.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh health department driver jailed for 30 years- New Age

The Dhaka Special Tribunal-4 on Monday jailed Abdul Malek, a driver at the Directorate General of Health Service, for 30 years in a case of possessing an illegal firearm and ammunitions.
Click here to read…

3 killed as violence, rigging mark Bangladesh local body polls- New Age

At least three people were killed and several dozens injured in violence over the first phase of union parishad elections held on Monday.
Click here to read…

Saudi Arabia keen to invest more in Bangladesh- The Independent

Noting that Bangladesh has an investment-friendly climate, the Saudi investment minister said there is a potential for more Saudi investment in Bangladesh.
Click here to read…

Bhutan

MoE seeks urgent strategised interventions to improve students’ performance- Kuensel

Around 46 percent of Class IV-XII students scored lower than 40 percent on the 2021 midterm examinations, according to the Ministry of Education’s consolidated midterm examination report.
Click here to read…

The importance of agriculture- Kuensel

Agriculture development in the country must take a new turn. Otherwise, we would be talking about the same problems 100 years from now.
https://kuenselonline.com/the-importance-of-agriculture/” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Potato exporters worry as their trucks stopped at border- Kuensel

Customs officials in India stopped trucks carrying potatoes from Bhutan without a plant quarantine certificate (PQC), which has affected business for potato exporters and bidders in Samdrupjongkhar.
Click here to read…

Maintaining small, compact and efficient Civil Service still a challenge- BBS

As per the commission’s Annual Report 2020 – 2021, this time, the increase in the number of civil servants is due to the increased demand in the education and health sectors.
Click here to read…

HH awards Toedtse Jim to Khenpo Karma Loday- BBS

The special award is an honorary appreciation for 59-year-old Khenpo Karma Loday’s unwavering service for the benefit of all sentient beings. He is from Toepaisa in Punakha.
Click here to read…

Maldives

Three pilots trained by India for MNDF – Edition

Indian High Commissioner to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said India have been training pilots for helicopters and the Dornier aircrafts gifted to Maldives. Three pilots have returned to Maldives after completing their training, according to the high commissioner.
Click here to read…

UNGA President hosts special dinner for President Solih upon arrival to attend 76th UNGA session – Raajje

President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has hosted a special dinner in honor of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who is currently in the states to attend the 76th UNGA session.
Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi Denies False Reports That She Opposes Armed Resistance to Junta – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has denied false reports that she didn’t accept armed resistance against the military regime.
Click here to read…

Agreement Moves Myanmar’s Kyaukphyu Port Project a Step Forward – The Irrawaddy

An agreement to conduct preliminary field investigation work for the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Deep Sea Port Project has been signed.
Click here to read…

Rohingya Armed Groups Active Again in Western Myanmar – The Irrawaddy

Long before the junta’s February 1 coup, the Rohingya crisis was making headlines in the international media.
Click here to read…

Nepal

Govt told not to arrest anyone for negative remarks- Himalaya

The Supreme Court today issued a stay order against the government asking it not to arrest anyone for making negative statements.
Click here to read…

India to resume export of COVID-19 vaccines under the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ programme from October-December- Himalaya

India is all set to resume the export of surplus COVID-19 vaccines under the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ program.
Click here to read…

‘Opposition must play responsible role in Parliament- Himalaya

The government has urged the opposition to play a responsible role in running the federal Parliament.
Click here to read…

Deuba’s plan for Cabinet expansion constrained by coalition partners- Kathmandu Post

Janata Samajbadi Party wants ordinance to ease party splits withdrawn while CPN (Unified Socialist) wants the prime minister to wait until court order on Oli’s petition/
Click here to read…

Government allocates record Rs15 billion to ensure fertiliser- Kathmandu Post

The government has set aside a record Rs15 billion for its fertiliser subsidy programme this year, fearing steep price rises in the world market may result in shortages.
Click here to read…

Mahalaya in Nepal: Why Hindus remember their forefathers before the festive season- OnlineKhabar

The offerings made to the priest during the ceremony is believed to reach the three generations caught in pitri lok.
Click here to read…

Budhigandaki hydropower project delay incurs a loss of billions: BRB- OnlineKhabar

Former prime minister Baburam Bhattarai joins a protest programme demanding the early launch of the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project, in Kathmandu, on Monday, September 20, 2021.
Click here to read…

Energy Roadmap Launched for Achieving SDG-7- Rising Nepal

Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal formally launched the roadmap for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-7) on Monday.
Click here to read…

Supreme Court hearing writ against 14 lawmakers today- KhabarHub

A hearing of the writ petition filed at the Supreme Court (SC) demanding to revoke the membership of 14 UML lawmakers will be conducted today.
Click here to read…

लोकतन्त्रविरोधी अध्यादेश खारेजी नभएसम्म सरकारले पूर्णता पाउँदैन : उपेन्द्र यादव

(Government will not be complete until anti-democracy ordinance is repealed: Upendra Yadav)- Nepal News

Yadav said that the Council of Ministers would not be complete until the ordinance weakening democracy and political parties was repealed.
Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan satisfied with security assurances by Afghan Taliban: ISPR: Dawn

Pakistan is maintaining a regular engagement with the Afghan Taliban for safeguarding the country’s security interests, said military spokesman Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar on Monday.
Click here to read…

Pakistan GDP to grow at 4.2pc: Fitch: Dawn

With some subdued downward risks, Fitch Ratings on Monday forecast Pakistan’s economic growth at 4.2 per cent — against the government’s target of 4.8pc.
Click here to read…

Govt refuses to reveal details of foreign gifts given to PM Imran: The Express Tribune

The federal government has refused to make public details of gifts given to Prime Minister Imran Khan by foreign heads of states, saying the disclosure can damage country’s national interest and its relations with other states.
Click here to read…

Saudi Arabia offers to play role in easing Pakistan-India tension: The Express Tribune

Saudi Foreign Minister Amir Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, who is on his maiden visit to India, has said that Saudi Arabia could play a role in easing tensions between archrivals Pakistan and India.
Click here to read…

Security concerns: ECB also pulls out of October twin series: The News

England cricket chiefs on Monday withdrew their men’s and women’s teams from next month’s white-ball series in Pakistan citing “increasing concerns about travelling to the region”.
Click here to read…

‘Contact with Taliban in national interest’: The News

Pakistan is confident that the Taliban will fulfil their commitment of not allowing any terrorist organisation to use the Afghan soil against any country including Pakistan.
Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Lanka, Turkish FMs powwow in NY- The Island

Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris has expressed condolences on the death of two Turkish nationals as a result of the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks when he met the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavusoglu at the Turkish House.
Click here to read…

‘War crimes’: Lanka rejects fresh probe- The Island

Sri Lanka yesterday (14) rejected the UNHCR proposal to initiate a fresh inquiry into accountability issues.
Click here to read…

Vaccination centres drying up as youngsters refuse vaccines- Daily Mirror

Health authorities yesterday raised serious concerns over the lack of interest among the 20 to 29 age group to get themselves vaccinated against COVID19 with many having fears that it may lead to infertility while some preferred unproven natural remedies.
Click here to read…

Jayantha Ketagoda to be sworn in today- Daily Mirror

Jayantha Ketagoda who is expected to fill the National List MP slot created after the resignation of former State Minister Ajith Nivard Cabraal is to be sworn in today, Serjeant-at-arms Narendra Fernando said yesterday.
Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Nangarhar: Taliban Vehicle Targeted by Blast, Child Killed: Tolo News

A child was killed and two people, including a Taliban forces member, were injured in an explosion on Sunday evening in Nangarhar province.
Click here to read…

Guterres Calls for UN Engagement with Taliban: Tolo News

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres in an interview with the Associated Press says the international community wants to see an inclusive government in Afghanistan and to achieve that the United Nations must engage with the Taliban.
Click here to read…

Taliban have not met their commitments: former Afghan president: The Khaama Press

The former Afghan president Hamid Karzai in his recent interview said that the Taliban have pledged education of girls, women’s rights, the national flag, and other national values but no implementation of the promises has been seen yet.
Click here to read…

Women protest in Kabul against Taliban’s policies for them: The Khaama Press

A number of women gathered at the gate of the ministry of women affairs-now replaced- and protested against the policies of the Taliban vis-à-vis them asked for the rights of education and work on Sunday, September 19.
Click here to read…

Fuel Prices in Kabul Rise in Past Week: Tolo News

According to residents, gas prices rose by 15 Afs per kilo and oil prices increased 4 Afs per liter during the last week. Currently the price of each kilo of gas is 75 Afs in the Kabul market.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Exports to Bhutan go up as trade agreement kicks in- Daily Star

Bangladesh’s exports to Bhutan could rise on the back of the bilateral trade pact signed last year.
Click here to read…

Khaleda’s Jail Term: Suspended for another 6 months- Daily Star

The government has extended for six months the suspension of the jail term of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.
Click here to read…

Govt mulls new citizens’ database- Daily Star

The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics is going to develop what officials said would be an extensive and comprehensive identity database.
Click here to read…

’Non-Muslims, transgender people their new target’- Daily Star

Militant outfit Ansar al Islam, said to be the Bangladesh chapter of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent, is now targeting non-Muslims and transgender people to recruit them into militancy.
Click here to read…

Government mulls vaccinating 20m people a month- The Asian Age

DG of Directorate General of Health Services- DGHS has said, the government is mulling vaccinating 20 million doses of Covid vaccines a month.
Click here to read…

UN ready to provide electoral assistance to BD- The Asian Age

The United Nations is ready to offer assistance to Bangladesh in its next national elections only if the government asks for it.
Click here to read…

Inter-district bus terminals to be moved outside Dhaka- Dhaka Tribune

The government plans to build five new inter-district bus terminals outside Dhaka city, aiming to reduce traffic congestion in the capital.
Click here to read…

PM arrives in New York to attend UNGA- The Observer

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in New York on Sunday afternoon to attend the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Click here to read…

Bhutan

Are the wetlands safe? – Kuensel

A few years ago, villagers in Sangtana in Gangtey gewog complained about ABC Lodge discharging grey water directly into the wetland, threatening the black-necked cranes and their habitat.
Click here to read…

More buses with modern amenities in Thimphu Thromde from November– Kuensel

The thromde added 27 new buses to its fleet on August 29.
Click here to read…

The Buxa Durbar– Kuensel

The story of how Bhutan received its subsidy in 1909 from the British.
Click here to read…

Guru Rinpoche, the legendary saint who spread Buddhism in Bhutan- Daily Bhutan

He was born from a lotus, fully enlightened. He went on to become the patron saint of Bhutan and established the Nyingma sect of Buddhism.
Click here to read…

Maldives

Ambassador of Nepal to Bangladesh and High Commissioner of Maldives to Bangladesh visit UAP on Invitation from OIA – The Daily Star

On September 14, 2021, two teams from of the Embassy of Nepal and the High Commission of Maldives to Bangladesh visited University of Asia Pacific (UAP) on invitation from the Office of International Affairs (OIA), UAP.
Click here to read…

Maldives removed from UK’s red list – Raajje

After weeks of remaining hopeful of being moved up to the United Kingdom’s Travel Amber List, Maldives has been removed from the country’s Travel Red list.
Click here to read…

Pres Solih departs to New York to attend UNGA – Avas

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih Saturday departed to New York City, United States, to attend the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Click here to read…

Myanmar

Burmese Army Attacks a Baptist Church in Chin State – Persecution

Following intense fighting between the Burmese Army (Tatmadaw) and the local defense groups in Myanmar’s Christian-majority Chin state, on September 14, the Tatmadaw shelled a Baptist church in Thantlang township.
Click here to read…

Myanmar’s All-Out War in the Making – The Diplomat

After the announcement of the all-out war (dubbed D-Day) by the National Unity Government (NUG) on September 7, some Myanmar people resorted to panic buying.
Click here to read…

Myanmar Is a Failing State—and Could Be a Danger to Its Neighbors – Council on Foreign Relations

When the new coronavirus emerged, Myanmar remained relatively unaffected: Until August 2020, it had recorded only six COVID-19 deaths, and development specialists praised the civilian government, led by the National League for Democracy (NLD), for implementing measures to limit the virus’s spread.
Click here to read…

Myanmar Military Launches Artillery Strike Near Kachin Armed Group’s HQ – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military fired artillery on Wednesday night near Laiza, the headquarters of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Kachin State, for no reason, said KIA information officer Colonel Naw Bu.
Click here to read…

Court jails Rakhine anti-war protesters for two and a half years – Myanmar Now

Four student activists who were arrested for staging an anti-war protest last year were each sentenced to two and a half years in prison on Thursday, almost a year after they were first detained.
Click here to read…

Attacks on Myanmar telecom towers show evolving tactics in conflict – Reuters

Around 700,000 people in Myanmar are estimated to have lost internet access after attacks on telecommunication equipment run by Mytel, the partly army-controlled company said amid reports that dozens of its towers were damaged.
Click here to read…

Nepal

SSB arrests two persons including Chinese national from India-Nepal border- ANI

SSB arrests two persons including Chinese national from India-Nepal border.
Click here to read…

1413 recover as 656 new Covid-19 cases surface; 12 deaths reported- Himalaya

Nepal’s coronavirus caseload reached 784,566 on Sunday with 656 more people testing positive for the infection in the past 24 hours.
Click here to read…

Need to realize the aspirations of the people: President Bhandari- Himalaya

President Bidya Devi Bhandari has said that it is our eternal duty to realize the people’s aspirations guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal.
Click here to read…

No regard for rule of law as Nepali state runs on ad hocism- Kathmandu Post

Ordinances are allowed by constitution but governments are issuing them as per their wish, not paying attention to their timely approval, leading to legal vacuum.
Click here to read…

Nepal observes Constitution Day- Kathmandu Post

On Sunday, President Bidya Bhandari, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, ministers and other dignitaries attended a special programme organised at Tundikhel to observe the Constitution Day.
Click here to read…

Foreign firms showed interest to invest in two dozen hotels in first two months of current FY- Republica

Foreign investors are found increasingly attracted to run hotels in Nepal with such companies proposing to invest in around two dozen hotels in the first two months of the current fiscal year.
Click here to read…

Many cooperatives in Nepal into fraud thanks to nominal monitoring- OnlineKhabar

The Cooperative Federation’s Kandel says problems are arising because it has only been a few years since the task of monitoring was handed to the local governments and hence calls for patience.
Click here to read…

Nepali theatre is making a comeback, slowly but steadily- OnlineKhabar

The Nepali theatre sector that was trying to get up after the first wave of Covid-19 was again brought to a standstill in the second wave.
Click here to read…

Teachers Of Private Schools Lose Jobs To COVID-19- Rising Nepal

Teachers of private schools might be the worst affected professionals from COVID-19 in Nepal.
Click here to read…

PM Stresses Constitution’s Full Implementation for Attaining Prosperity- Rising Nepal

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that the objective of the government is to ensure the prosperity of the nation through successful implementation of the Constitution.
Click here to read…

Pakistan

‘No other way’: Fawad says 2023 general elections will be based on reforms-Dawn

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Sunday said that the 2023 general election would be based on and possible only after electoral reforms, adding that “there is no other way [possible] except this.”
Click here to read…

NZ tour abandoned after alert from ‘Five Eyes’ alliance about a ‘serious’ threat: PCB CEO- Dawn

The Black Caps devastated Pakistan’s cricket fraternity on Friday after opting out of their tour of Pakistan minutes before the first ODI was to be played. They had cited a “security threat” as the reason without divulging any further.
Click here to read…

Taxes on imports fuel inflation: The Express Tribune

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) data showed that the Rs149 billion revenues during July-August 2021 period were also 132% more than the collection during the same period of the last fiscal year.
Click here to read…

Pakistan begins dispatching humanitarian aid to Afghanistan via Torkham: The Express Tribune

Pakistan on Sunday started dispatching humanitarian aid to Afghanistan through land route and sent 13 truckloads of fresh consignment of humanitarian assistance to the war-torn country through Torkham border crossing.
Click here to read…

Corona kills 71 more: Unvaccinated people in Sindh to be arrested: The News

The Sindh government has decided to arrest unvaccinated people after the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) issued fresh directives for expediting COVID vaccination in the country.
Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

SL receives 20 state-of-the-art Indian train coaches – Ceylon Today

Sri Lanka received 20 state-of-the-art custom-made modern train coaches from India as part of the USD 82.6 million contract.
Click here to read…

Govt.’s secret deal with US company affects Lanka’s sovereignty, says FSP – The Island

Sri Lanka was now dependent on the United States to supply LNG to Sri Lankan power stations thanks to an agreement it had entered into with a US-based energy company.
Click here to read…

President arrives in New York to attend 76th UNGA Session – PMDnews

The delegation headed by the President arrived at the John F. Kennedy Airport in New York on September 18.
Click here to read…

Foreign Minister Peiris Reaffirms Sri Lanka’s Active Commitment to Dialogue And Engagement With The Commonwealth – MFA

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s active commitment to dialogue and engagement with the Commonwealth at a virtual meeting with the Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland in New York.
Click here to read…

Sri Lanka, Ukraine discuss potential for enhancing tourism and economic ties – Daily FT

State Minister of Regional Co-operation TharakaBalasuriya undertook an official visit to Ukraine from 8-10 September to participate in a Sri Lanka tourism promotion campaign.
Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Ghani’s Fleeing Ruined Last-Minute Deal: Khalilzad: Tolo News

According to Khalilzad, the plan was to keep Kabul out of the Taliban’s hands and negotiate a political transition, but Ghani’s escape created a power vacuum and the Taliban entered the city, the Financial Times reported.
Click here to read…

Afghan Students Anxious as Schools Remain Closed: Tolo News

Although a month has passed since the fall of the previous government, secondary schools (grade 7 and up) remain closed, causing concerns, a number of students told TOLOnews on Thursday.
Click here to read…

Black Market Visa Business Booming in Afghanistan: Tolo News

As most embassies in Kabul closed following the collapse of the former government, and the number of people demanding visas has increased, the black market business for visas is skyrocketing.
Click here to read…

We impose no conditions on Taliban, they declared their objective themselves: Russia: The Khaama Press

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said that they are not imposing any conditions on the Taliban and added that they are declaring their objectives themselves which are fighting terrorism and drug trafficking.
Click here to read…

Taliban asks UN’s cooperation in recognition, lifting sanctions: The Khaama Press

Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan asked the UN to help them in recognition of their government, removing names of the Taliban leaders from the black list, and lifting all other sanctions imposed by the international community.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Quarterly GDP growth data from next fiscal year- Daily Star

The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) is going to publish the gross domestic product (GDP) growth data every quarter from the next fiscal year.
Click here to read…

PM at UNGA: Post-pandemic recovery high on agenda- Daily Star

Bangladesh will focus on post-Covid economic recovery, climate change and Rohingya crisis at the UN General Assembly in New York, where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will attend from September 21
Click here to read…

Social Safety Net: High allocations, but off target- Daily Star

Bangladesh is failing to reap the maximum benefit from its high social safety net allocations.
Click here to read…

Editors’ Council concerned as BFIU seeks bank details of journos- Asian Age

The Editors’ Council has expressed concern as the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) has sought bank details of eleven journalist leaders.
Click here to read…

Investigate how many people Zia killed in jail- Asian Age

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged lawmakers to find out how many people were killed in each jail across the country during Ziaur Rahman’s regime.
Click here to read…

ED: A scientifically sound climate strategy for Bangladesh- Dhaka Tribune

COURTESY With the weakening of Bangladesh’s naturally protective mechanisms such as the Sundarbans, the government needs to take adequate steps to reverse the damage.
Click here to read…

BNP policymakers now will sit with grassroots leaders- The Observer

BNP policymakers now will sit with grassroots leaders BNP policymakers are now planning to sit with the grassroots leaders.
Click here to read…

PM flies for Finland Friday morning on her way to UNGA- The Independent

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will leave for Finland on Friday morning as part of a two-week official visit to attend the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Click here to read…

Hasina pledges concrete-steel houses for poor- New Age

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday said that the government was now building houses with concrete and steel for homeless people so that none could damage those easily.
Click here to read…

Bhutan

Parties renewing membership without consent?- Kuensel

Despite being the ruling party, the Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) has become the smallest party in terms of membership.
Click here to read…

Lhuentse-Mongar local bus service resumes- Kuensel

Local bus service from Lhuentse to Mongar resumed on September 14 almost five months after.
Click here to read…

Understanding mental health and well-being: Me For Myself- Kuensel

About 50 Bhutanese youths are engaged in the Me For Myself (M4M) campaign that focuses on mental health and well-being.
Click here to read…

Commercial youth farmers wait for NLCS’s approval- Kuensel

To expand their commercial farming, a youth group in Samarchu, Dagana, proposed to lease 11.40 acres of state land nearby their farm in March this year.
Click here to read…

200-bedded quarantine facility at Dhamdum ready- Samtse- BBS

The 200-bedded Quarantine Facility at Dhamdum in Samtse is now ready. The facility which was inaugurated on Tuesday.
Click here to read…

Maldives

Nepal, Maldives envoys visit UAP – New Age

Two teams from of the embassy of Nepal and the high commission of Maldives to Bangladesh headed by Nepal ambassador Banshidhar Mishra and Maldives high commissioner Shiruzimath Sameer visited University of Asia Pacific.
Click here to read…

UNWTO Plans Restart of Tourism Across Asia and the Pacific – Travel Agent Central

The 33rd joint meeting of the World Tourism Organization’s Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and its Commission for South Asia was held September 14, 2021.
Click here to read…

Ex-pres. issued warning for violating house arrest terms – Raajje

Maldives Correction Service (MCS) has closed the case of incarcerated Former President Abdulla Yameen violating the conditions and terms of his house arrest by taking part in an opposition rally, after issuing a warning.
Click here to read…

Hungary consulate opens in the Maldives – Avas

The Consulate was opened by Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed, Hungarian Ambassador to the Maldives, András László Király and Maldives’ Horonary Consul to Hungary, Mohamed Ali Janah at a special ceremony held Thursday.
Click here to read…

Myanmar

Norway’s Telenor says Myanmar unit sale plan followed junta’s pressure on surveillance tech – Reuters

Norwegian telecom firm Telenor is selling its Myanmar operations to avoid European Union sanctions after “continued pressure” from Myanmar’s military junta to activate intercept surveillance technology, the company’s Asia head told Reuters.
Click here to read…

Cold, frightened and armed: In Myanmar’s jungles, a struggling resistance – Indian Express

The Myanmar soldiers attacked the village of Yay Shin, deep in the furrows of the Himalayan foothills, just after dusk, descending with flamethrowers and heavy weaponry.
Click here to read…

Finding fault lines within the Tatmadaw – Frontier Myanmar

A split in the Tatmadaw has been unlikely since its founding in 1962, but a steady increase in defections and desertions since the coup amid plunging morale has some questioning whether unity can be maintained within the nation’s most powerful institution.
Click here to read…

Myanmar Military Battles Ethnic Armed Group in Kachin State – The Irrawaddy

The ethnic armed group and the Myanmar military have been clashing on the strategic Tanai-Shingbwiyang Road since September 7, after regime soldiers attempted to retake control of Tarong Village, which lies along the road, said KIA information officer Colonel Naw Bu.
Click here to read…

Military Junta Attempts To Undermine AA Rule In Rakhine State – BNI Online

The Tatmadaw has called up leaders of Muslim villages in Kyauktaw Township to tell them not to accept the authority of the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA) in Rakhine State, whose hold over the area has grown since an informal ceasefire late last year temporarily ending years of conflict.
Click here to read…

Nepal

Oli rules out Nepal’s return to CPN-UML- Himalaya

CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli today said UML’s door was shut for Madhav Kumar Nepal as he had led a campaign to topple his own party’s government and support the leader of opposition to form a new government.
Click here to read…

Arun Valley Hydropower Development Company (AHPC) proposes 10 per cent Bonus shares; When’s the book closure?

Arun Valley Hydropower Development Company Limited (AHPC) has proposed 10 per cent bounus shares and 0.526% cash dividends on Thursday.
Click here to read…

Nepal to wrap up evacuation of its citizens from Afghanistan on September 18- Kathmandu Post

The government is preparing to wrap up the evacuation of its citizens from crisis-ridden Afghanistan on September 18.
Click here to read…

A load of rubbish- Nepali Times

Kathmandu’s garbage problem is not new, it has been five decades in the making.
Click here to read…

TU urges colleges to run physical classes- Republica

The Tribhuvan University (TU) has urged the campuses affiliated to it to run physical classes from Friday.
Click here to read…

NRB injects additional Rs 20 billion in country’s financial market to ease liquidity crunch- Republica

Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) on Thursday injected an additional Rs 20 billion in the domestic financial system in an attempt to ease a growing shortfall of liquidity in the banking system.
Click here to read…

Pakistan

SCO leaders caution against abandoning Afghanistan: Dawn

Several regional leaders participating in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on Thursday underscored the need for an inclusive government in Afghanistan and concurred with Pakistan that the war-ravaged country should not be abandoned after the Taliban takeover.
Click here to read…

US urges Pakistan’s constructive role in resolving Afghan crisis: Dawn

The US State Department has urged Pakistan to play a constructive role in persuading the Taliban to fulfil their commitments.

Click here to read…

Ties with Russia key priority for Pakistan, says foreign minister: The Express Tribune

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Dushanbe and reiterated commitment to further enhance the bilateral ties.
Click here to read…

Pakistan to recognise Taliban govt ‘independently, not under duress’: The Express Tribune

Pakistan has announced that it will take an independent decision in line with its interests on recognising the Taliban government in a major policy statement rejecting the US demand asking Islamabad not to give legitimacy to Afghanistan’s new rulers unless they meet international demands.
Click here to read…

Slow pace of work on CPEC irks Chinese companies: Dawn

A Senate panel on Thursday expressed concern over the slow pace of development on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and dissatisfaction being expressed by the Chinese companies over the negligible progress over the past three years.
Click here to read…

UN High Commissioner for Refugees calls on COAS: The News

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security, current situation in Afghanistan and collaboration in humanitarian assistance were discussed.
Click here to read…

Taliban be given time to run country effectively: Rashid: The News

The world needs to understand the ground realities about Afghanistan, said Rashid. He added that the Taliban must ensure the availability of financial and human resources for governance.
Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Port City’s International Financial Centre postponed – The Morning

D to the prevailing pandemic situation, commencement of construction has been postponed.
Click here to read…

2,271 persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT

COVID-19 detections in the country rose to 498,694 with the detection of 2,271 COVID-19 cases yesterday.
Click here to read…

Fresh concerns as manufacturing, services contract in August – Daily FT

The country’s manufacturing and services sector had contracted in August as per the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) compiled by the Central Bank, sparking fresh concerns over the impact of the COVID third-wave-induced lockdowns.
Click here to read…

EU delegation to visit Sri Lanka for talks on GSP+ concessions – Adaderana

A delegation of the European Union is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka on September 27, the Foreign Secretary Admiral (Prof.) Jayanath Colombage said.
Click here to read…

United States Delivers $40 Million in Financing to Support Small Businesses and Empower Sri Lankan Women – US Embassy

The United States provided $40 million in financing to SDB Bank in order to bolster Sri Lanka’s Small and Medium sized Enterprise (SME) sector and assist women entrepreneurs.
Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Taliban Says it Will Build Regular Army, Include Former Members: Tolo News

Two weeks after the announcement of members of a Taliban caretaker government, the Taliban government’s acting army chief of staff, Qari Fasihuddin, on Wednesday said they are working to form a “regular” and “strong” army.
Click here to read…

Afghan Journalists: Reporting Hindered by Lack of Govt Sources: Tolo News

Several journalists on Tuesday complained that they face many restrictions while reporting, and media workers said that their questions sent to official sources remain unanswered most of the time.
Click here to read…

Over $12 million seized from former officials given to central bank by Taliban: The Khaama Press

Taliban gave the total amount of 12368246 dollars in cash to the central bank-De Afghanistan bank-that were seized from the residences of officials of the former government. In addition to the cash, the Taliban has also given the central bank gold bricks on Wednesday, September 15.
Click here to read…

EU announces additional 100 million euros in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

Head of the European Union Urela Von Der Leyen said that the union of 27 European states is standing beside Afghanistan and is announcing additional 100 million euros in humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan.
Click here to read…

We will suppress those who defend gains of past two decades: Taliban: The Khaama Press

Chief of Army Staff of the Taliban Fasihudin said that they will suppress all who defend the gains of the past two decades under the name of specific ethnic groups or resistance in Afghanistan.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Will jab 50pc by year-end- Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday in parliament said efforts were underway to vaccinate students aged 12.
Click here to read…

DU provost committee recommends reopening halls from October 5- Daily Star

Dhaka University’s (DU’s) provost committee yesterday recommended reopening residential halls for master’s and final-year honours students from October 5.
Click here to read…

No need for hired leadership- Daily Star

A section of BNP leaders yesterday slammed the party’s leadership for contesting the 2018 parliamentary election under the banner of Jatiya Oikyafront.
Click here to read…

About two-thirds industrial loan now gone bad- Daily Star

About two-thirds of the industrial loan has been turned default as of March, said Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal yesterday.
Click here to read…

India considers resuming vaccine exports soon- Asian News Desk

India is considering resuming exports of Covid-19 vaccines soon, mainly to Africa.
Click here to read…

Bangladesh inks TIFA deal with Australia- The Asian Age

Bangladesh on Wednesday inked a framework on trade and investment with Australia to provide a platform for institutionalized economic interactions.
Click here to read…

Covid-19: Bangladesh records 51 more deaths, 1,901 new cases- Dhaka Tribune

The country recorded 35 and 41 deaths on Tuesday and Monday respectively. On Sunday, the single-day death toll stood at 51.
Click here to read…

Canadian buyers urged to import more garments from Bangladesh- Daily Observer

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan has called on Canadian buyers to choose Bangladesh as a safe, sustainable and ethical apparel-sourcing destination.
Click here to read…

NU graduates lag behind in Bangladesh job market- New Age

The National University has failed to produce quality graduates for the job market, said educationists and private sector employers.
Click here to read…

Bhutan

Embracing solar power to promote clean energy- Kuensel

To diversify renewable energy resources, Department of Renewable Energy (DRE) launched an 11.7-kilowatt peak (kWp) in an hour grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) car park.
Click here to read…

Geptay-Satsam road in dire need of maintenance- Kuensel

Motorists and pedestrians commuting towards Geptay from Paro town are frustrated with the worsening road condition every year.
Click here to read…

Yathra weaving, the uniquely Bumthang culture- Daily Bhutan

Traditionally, every household owns a backstrap loom and girls are taught to weave from as young as 8 years old. The more women who weave in the family, the greater the source of pride.
Click here to read…

Maldives

Authorities detain foreign vessels trespassing on Maldivian waters – Avas

Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) said two vessels fishing in the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone were detained on September 11 and September 13.
Click here to read…

Munu Mahawar appointed as HC of India to Maldives – BigNewsNetwork

Munu Mahawar, presently Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday.
Click here to read…

76th UNGA President Shahid officially assumes office – Raajje

The President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Abdulla Shahid has officially assumed office.
Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar: Southeast Asia’s Next Frontline of Jihadism? – Global Risks Insights

In November 2020, Myanmar’s first explicitly Salafi-Jihadist militant group, Katibah al-Mahdi fi Bilad al-Arakan, declared jihad against Naypyidaw to avenge the persecution of Rohingya Muslims by Myanmar’s military junta.
Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Troops Suspected of Killing and Mutilating Civilians – The Irrawaddy

Five civilians have been found dead with their bodies mutilated close to where junta troops clashed last week with local resistance fighters in Magwe Region’s Gangaw Township.
Click here to read…

Any Embassy Sales by Junta Would Be Illegal, Myanmar’s Shadow Govt Warns – The Irrawaddy

Amid reports that the Myanmar military junta seeks to sell the land housing the country’s embassy in Japan, the shadow National Unity Government (NUG) has warned that any sale, in part or in whole, of a Myanmar diplomatic mission by the “illegal” military regime would be unlawful.
Click here to read…

Junta’s Demand to Spy on Customers Prompts Telenor to Leave Myanmar – The Irrawaddy

The Norwegian parent company of telecom operator Telenor Myanmar said Wednesday it could not maintain its presence in Myanmar, as doing so would require it to help the military regime conduct surveillance of its clients.
Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Cuts Internet Access in Anti-Regime Resistance Strongholds – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military regime has cut off internet access in several townships in Sagaing and Mandalay regions. The affected townships are strongholds of anti-regime resistance groups who have inflicted heavy casualties on junta forces.
Click here to read…

Nepal

First Private Cargo Train Arrives in Nepal from India After 17 Years- Rising Nepal

The private sector cargo train has arrived in Nepal from India for the first time in 17 years after the operation of Nepal-India railway service. The first private cargo train has arrived at Birgunj-based dry port Wednesday morning.
Click here to read…

70% migrant workers say they will not choose same recruiting agency again- Khabarahub

This is the finding of an analysis report of the Migrant Recruitment Advisor (MRA) in Nepal which was shared in a sub-regional South Asia meeting on MRA.
Click here to read…

पुस्तान्तरणको मुद्दाले दबाबमा देउवा (Deuba under the pressure of generational transfer)- Kantipur Daily

Deuba, who has been trying to do arithmetic in the work and appointment of the government, has been delaying the appointment of his own advisor and the formation of the secretariat.
Click here to read…

Deuba Cabinet expansion faces ordinance hurdle- Himalayan

Even two months after coming to power, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has not been able to expand his Cabinet.
Click here to read…

Quake-damaged school rebuilt, handed over- Himalayan

A handover ceremony of the reconstructed Namuna Machhindra Secondary School was held in Lagankhel today.
Click here to read…

Journalists, activists against human trafficking awarded- Himalayan

The Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens has honoured various institutions and individuals for their contribution to controlling human trafficking.
Click here to read…

UML looks set for a showdown amid spending halt- Kathmandu Post

Ruling alliance may steamroller the budget through lower house, but its passage from upper house looks difficult without a deal with main opposition.

Click here to read…

Country’s three key state organs are in disarray- Kathmandu Post

The executive is hobbling, legislature is facing an impasse, and the judiciary is caught in tangles.
Click here to read…

Health Ministry raises an alarm over resuming physical classes in educational institutions- Republica

The Ministry of Health and Population has directed concerned authorities not to take the decision of allowing educational institutions to reopen in haste.
Click here to read…

Kathmandu recorded a high number of road accidents during the lockdown. Is it safe other times?- OnlineKhabar

The police and other agencies need to find common mistakes done by these drivers because there are places where accidents happen on a regular basis.
Click here to read…

Pakistan

World should incentivise Taliban instead of trying to control Afghanistan from outside: PM Imran on CNN: Dawn

In an exclusive interview on CNN programme ‘Connect the World’ on Wednesday, host Becky Anderson asked Prime Minister Imran about apprehensions that the Taliban will not protect human rights, especially those of women and children.
Click here to read…

NSA assails world’s ‘wait and watch’ policy on Afghanistan: Dawn

National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf on Wednesday denounced the world’s ‘wait and watch’ policy on recognising Afghanistan’s Taliban regime as a flawed strategy that would push the war-ravaged country further towards economic collapse.
Click here to read…

Govt jacks up petrol, diesel prices by Rs5 per litre: The Express Tribune

According to the notification the per-litre price of petrol goes up by Rs5, HSD by Rs5.01, kerosene oil by Rs5.46 and light diesel oil (LDO) by R 5.92.
Click here to read…

Pakistan participates in first China-hosted multinational peacekeeping drill: The Express Tribune

Troops from Pakistan, Thailand and Mongolia joined China’s armed forces for the 10-day exercise dubbed “Shared Destiny 2021” at the military base in Queshan county in central Henan province.
Click here to read…

Use of EVM in elections is not new: IHC: The News

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday reserved judgment on the maintainability of a petition filed against holding election through Electronic Voting Machines (EVM).
Click here to read…

PM flies to Dushanbe to attend SCO meeting today: The News

All eyes are on Dushanbe to see who represents Afghanistan at the two-day 20th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of State (SCO-CHS) starting today (16-17 September).
Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

High Commissioner-designate of Sri Lanka calls on Foreign Secretary of India – Daily FT

High Commissioner-designate of Sri Lanka to India Milinda Moragoda paid a courtesy call on Foreign Secretary of India Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla yesterday at the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.
Click here to read…

2,314 persons test positive for COVID-19, over 3,000 delayed cases added to total – Daily FT

Sri Lanka’s COVID-19 detections exceeded 496,000 with the detection of 2,314 COVID-19 cases yesterday and the addition of over 3,000 delayed cases. The patients detected yesterday were from the New Year cluster.
Click here to read…

UN intervention will cause embarrassment – SJB – Ceylon Today

The SJB said it would be a disgrace to Sri Lanka if UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, has to intervene to ensure the existence of democracy in the country. SJB MP Imthiaz Bakeer Markar said the Sri Lankans in Italy are pushing the international community to protest because of the loss of democracy and the loss of human rights of people in Sri Lanka.
Click here to read…

UN office in Colombo condemns ill-treatment of prisoners – The Island

The United Nations (UN) office in Sri Lanka says it condemns any ill-treatment of prisoners.
“In our work on prison reform and drug rehabilitation UN Sri Lanka works to strengthen capacities to uphold the rights of all those in custody and condemns any ill treatment of prisoners,” Hanaa Singer-Hamdy tweeted.
Click here to read…