Tag Archives: Bangladesh

VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 16, 2022

Afghanistan
Review of Security Developments in Afghanistan Over Past Year: Tolo News

Although ensuring security in Afghanistan is considered one of the Islamic Emirate’s accomplishments over the past year, following August 15th, 2021, various provinces in the country had security incidents. Click here to read…

Iranian Customs Officers Seize Afghan Tanker Truck Containing 100KG of Drugs: The Khaama Press

Iranian media citing the country’s security officials reported that Iranian forces in Dogharun customs in Iran discovered and seized a tanker truck from Afghanistan containing 100 kilograms of drugs. Click here to read…

Taliban Delegation to Visit Turkey to Assess Situation of Afghan Refugees and Migrants: The Khaama Press

According to Taliban authorities, a delegation from the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation of the Taliban government would visit Turkey to assess the situation of Afghan migrants and refugees as Turkey deported as many as 40,000 Afghan migrants to Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Curbing money laundering through AI: The Daily Star

East India Company colonised Bengal in 1757 when India’s contribution to the world’s GDP was about 27 per cent and Bengal (Suba-E-Bengal) was one of the wealthiest places on Earth. Click here to read…

Petroleum remains NBR’s major source of revenue: The Daily Star

Petroleum imports continue to be the major source of revenue for Custom House, Chattogram thanks to higher tariffs.
Revenue collection from the import of diesel, furnace oil and other fuels surged 56 per cent to Tk 12,440 crore in the fiscal year of 2021-22 from that a year ago, the highest in a decade. Click here to read…

India, Bangladesh should ignore minor irritants, continue joint war on terror: Security expert: Economic Times

India and Bangladesh should ignore minor irritants and continue strengthening their close relations as the two nations engage in a joint war against terrorism, said Shantanu Mukharji, IPS (Retd), a security analyst specializing on South Asia and terrorism. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Too much money, too less credit: Kuensel Online

Financial institutions in the country have recorded significant growth in their liquidity positions amid a sluggish growth in credit, according to data published by the Royal Monetary Authority. Liquidity (cash) in bank and non-bank financial institutions increased to Nu 29.52 billion (B) in March 2022 from Nu 20.87B in March 2021. In other words, the liquidity position increased by Nu 8.65B or 41 percent. Click here to read…

Tsirang villages struggle with waste management challenges : Kuensel Online

With increasing modern infrastructure and development in rural communities, plastic waste has penetrated deep into the villages where waste problems had been an alien concept until recently. Click here to read…

For energy-secure Bhutan: Kuensel Online

Bhutan’s energy demand could grow by over 400 percent by 2030. This is a logical estimation, going by the consumption pattern in the country. To put it in numbers, coming from experts, energy demand could hit as high as 25,270.42 Gigawatt hours (GWh) by 2030 from 5,000 GWh currently. In other words, energy demand grew by 6 percent annually between 2010 and 2021. Click here to read…

Government halts 2,560MW Sunkosh project :Kuensel Online

The government will for now not pursue the 2,560-megawatt Sunkosh hydropower project, the country’s biggest, according to the economic affairs minister, Loknath Sharma.
This means that developmental activities like the construction of roads, bridges and plantation of cash crops, which were halted before, will be allowed. Click here to read…

Maldives
“Solih administration shepherd the island’s notable social and economic development”: Raajje

The council members of Feevah Island in the Shaviyani Atoll has expressed gratitude to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and his administration for the island’s notable social and economic development. Click here to read…

54 percent of Lhaimagu Harbor completed: Raajje

Work on design and build of Sh. Lhaimagu Harbor Development Project is well underway. 54 percent of the overall work of the project is now completed. Click here to read…

Maldives confirms 98 new Covid-19 cases within a week: Raajje

Maldives has confirmed 98 new Covid-19 cases within a week. Between August 7 to August 13, a total of 98 new Covid-19 infections were confirmed nationwide. Click here to read…

Transitional phase of parliamentary system will begin in February: Speaker: Avas

Parliament Speaker and President of the main-ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Mohamed Nasheed has said the transition to a parliamentary system of governance is possible in the Maldives and that the transitional phase of the parliamentary system would begin in February next year. Click here to read…

Indian High Commission office building relocated to Hulhumale’: Avas

The office building of the Indian High Commission in the Maldives has been relocated to Hulhumale’ while the Maldives government has allocated land for the construction of the Indian High Commission office in Hulhumale’ Phase II. However, no building has been constructed on the land thus far. Click here to read…

What does the 5th Plenary Session of the 19th CPC Central Committee mean for China and China-Maldives relations?: Avas

The recent conclusion of the 5th Plenary Session of the 19th CPC Central Committee is a crucial meeting at the decisive historical moment for China, In days to come, China is willing to share opportunities of development and welfare of cooperation with all countries including Maldives. China will draw impetus of development from the world and let China’sdevelopment benefit the world. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Kayah-resistance-groups-claim-19-myanmar-junta-deaths: The Irrawaddy

Fighting between resistance forces in Kayah State and Myanmar’s regime forces has left an estimated 19 junta troops dead in Hpruso, Demoso, Bawlakhe and Shadaw townships, according to the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF). Click here to read…

Myanmar Regime Sentences Suu Kyi to a Further Six Years in Prison on Corruption Charges: The Irrawaddy

The ousted State Counselor, who is being held in solitary confinement in Naypyitaw Prison, has now been sentenced to a total of 17 years in prison. Click here to read…

Coalition-of-chin-resistance-forces-launch-lethal-attack-on-junta-base-near-state-capital: Myanmar Now

An alliance of ethnic Chin guerrilla groups ambushed a Myanmar army base between Hakha and Thantlang townships last week, claiming to have killed 10 junta soldiers. Members of the Chinland Joint Defence Committee (CJDC) launched the attack on the site near the Themis stream on August 11 2022Click here to read…

Myanmar military launches airstrike on yinmabin township village trapping civilians: Myanmar Now

At least 50 civilians, including injured elderly people and children, have been trapped in a village in Sagaing Region’s Yinmabin Township since the military launched an airstrike on the location last week despite there being no clashes there. The 800-household village of Yin Paung Taing, located 10 miles outside of Yinmabin’s administrative centre, was reportedly targeted by 45 minutes of gunfire from three fighter jets on the afternoon of August 11, wounding several people. Click here to read…

Nepal
Climate-smarter Himalayan infrastructure: Nepali Times

Nepal is increasingly reliant on selling its surplus electricity to India. Power generation in the monsoon exceeds 2,100MW even as average domestic demand stands at just 1,550 MW. Another 2,500MW of electricity will be added to the grid in the next two years, while 3,000MW of new projects are in the pipeline. But these projections are at the mercy of future climate-induced riskClick here to read…

The geopolitics of Nepal’s water and electricity: Nepali Times

A rapidly warming atmosphere is melting Himalayan glaciers, changing the seasonal flow of water in Nepal’s rivers, and increasing the interest of downstream India to regulate water and generate electricity. For Nepal, this is an opportunity to finally tap the potential of the country’s ‘white gold’ to meet growing demand for electricity domestically, as well as redress its trade deficit with India by selling surplus power. Click here to read…

Resetting Nepal-China ties: The Kathmandu Post

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka’s three-day sojourn in northern neighbour China that concluded last Thursday somewhat blatantly failed to exude that level of warmth, mutuality and good neighbourliness. What is unbecomingly striking is that Khadka and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi even failed to come out with a joint communiqué. This signals an array of discords ? Click here to read…

Coalition task force near compromise on four criteria for seat-sharing: The Kathmandu Post

A meeting of the task force of the ruling five-party alliance to finalise seat-sharing arrangements for the upcoming federal and provincial polls is near agreement on a four-point criteria. Click here to read…

Pakistan
US, Pakistan discuss options for Gen Bajwa’s visit to DC: Dawn

United States and Pakistani officials are considering various options for Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa to visit the United States in late August or early September, diplomatic sources told Dawn. Click here to read…

Govt’s petrol-hike move catches people off guard: The Express Tribune

The government on Monday increased the price of petrol by Rs6.72 per litre and reduced that of high speed diesel (HSD) by Rs0.51 and kerosene oil by Rs1.67 per litre effective from August 16 (today). Click here to read…

Pakistan’s total debt jumps to Rs60 trillion: The Express Tribune

Pakistan’s total debt and liabilities skyrocketed to Rs59.7 trillion as the nation added Rs12 trillion, or one-fourth of its total debt incurred in the past 74 years, in the diamond jubilee year, thanks to the imprudent fiscal policies and devastating impact of currency devaluation. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
India gifts Dornier to Sri Lanka a day ahead of Chinese vessel arrival: Hindustan Times

India on Monday gifted a Dornier reconnaissance aircraft to Sri Lanka to bolster the island nation’s capability to tackle drug trafficking and maritime security challenges, with the move coming a day ahead of a controversial visit by a Chinese research vessel. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka imposes ban on three new entities and 55 individuals: Daily Mirror

While de-listing six Tamil international organizations including the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) and 317 individuals, the government has added 55 new individuals and three more organizations to the banned list as part of this year’s review, informed sources said. According to the gazette notification issued on July 28 this year signed by Defence Ministry Secretary GeneralClick here to read…

VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 12, 2022

Afghanistan
MoHE Forms Directorate of Academic Curriculum: Tolo News

The Ministry of Higher Education said that the leader of the Islamic Emirate has created the “directorate of academic curriculum” in the ministry. According to Ahmad Taqi, a spokesman for the Ministry of Higher Education, the establishment of this directorate is aimed at reviewing and developing the academic curriculum of the nation’s universities in light of Islamic laws and will have six directors and fifty-two employees. Click here to read…

Ghani Should Have Apologized to Afghan People: Afghan Envoy to UN: The Khaama Press

In reaction to the interview of the exiled president of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai, Chargé d’Affaires of Afghanistan Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Naseer Ahmad Faiq, stated that Ashraf Ghani should have apologized to all people of Afghanistan, but he did not. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Dhaka, Delhi agree to strengthen defence cooperation: Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh and India on Thursday expressed commitment to elevating engagements between their armed forces and reviewed the progress of bilateral defence cooperation initiatives. Click here to read…

Bangladesh receives $813 million in remittances in 10 days of August: Dhaka Tribune

Bangladeshi expatriates sent out $813 million in the first 10 days of August, Bangladesh Bank said on Thursday. Converted to taka, the remittances add up to around Tk7,804 crore (Tk96 per dollar). Click here to read…

India and Bangladesh in talks for major river agreement ahead of PM Hasina’s visit:The Hindu

India and Bangladesh are likely to ink at least one major river agreement later this month, The Hindu has learned. The planning for the agreement is being tightly guarded by officials on both sides as water sharing between the two countries is considered to be a sensitive subject given the fact that it often takes political meaning. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Government of Japan and UNDP launch new project to address unprecedented rise in health care waste management in Bangladesh, Bhutan and the Maldives – UNDP

The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today launched a new project that will support the national health agencies and other key stakeholders in Bangladesh, Bhutan and the Maldives to address the unprecedented rise in infectious health care waste caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that is overwhelming waste treatment facilities. Click here to read…

The World’s ‘Happiest Country’ Needs a Peace and Reconciliation Process

In 2021, approximately 6,300 Bhutanese refugees still languished in two refugee camps in Nepal. Many of the over 100,000 Bhutanese refugees resettled in eight western countries, even if they have not been able to return ‘home’, feel an intense love for their country of birth. That is what catalysed the movement Peace Initiative Bhutan, started in 2020 by diasporic Bhutanese whose families are divided between Bhutan and the countries they settled in. Peace Initiative Bhutan currently functions under the auspices of Global Citizens Circle, founded in 1974 in the US. Click here to read…

Maldives
HRW calls for repeal of Maldives laws criminalizing homosexuality – La Prensalatina

Nonprofit Human Rights Watch on Thursday urged Maldives authorities to revoke the laws that criminalize sexual relations between people of the same sex, in the backdrop of four people, including the brother of former president Mohamed Nasheed, being arrested under the legislation. Click here to read…

Maldives to welcome one-millionth tourist on Friday – Avas

This is the first time the Maldives will host over a million tourists since the tourism industry recovered from the challenging period that followed the COVID-19 pandemic and the first time in its history that a million tourists traveled to the country so early in the year. Click here to read…

Maldives Can Seize Opportunities to Boost Public Revenue, Make Public Spending More Efficient – Modern Diplomacy

Maldives’ economy is on the road to recovery following the unprecedented shocks of COVID-19. Key reforms can enhance the quality of public spending, strengthen debt management and debt transparency and collect more revenues to finance the country’s development needs, according to the World Bank’s Maldives Public Expenditure Review (PER) launched today. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Myanmar Battalion Commanders, Other Officers Killed in Clashes With Resistance Forces – The Irrawaddy

At least 80 Myanmar regime forces including three battalion commanders and some army captains were killed in recent firefights with People’s Defense Force groups and ethnic armed organizations in Chin, Kachin and Karen states and Sagaing and Magwe regions. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Sanctions-Hit Junta Still Netting Vast Oil, Gas Profits – VOA News

Vast oil and gas profits continue flowing to, and propping up, Myanmar’s military junta a year and a half into its bloody crackdown on nationwide resistance to the February 2021 coup, opposition and rights groups say. Click here to read…

Singapore Told to Clampdown on Companies Supplying Myanmar Military – The Irrawaddy

Justice for Myanmar (JFM), a group of activists monitoring the business interests of the Myanmar military, has called on Singapore to take immediate action against companies that broker the supply of arms and equipment to the junta. Click here to read…

What’s Behind the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor ‘Plus’ Initiative – The Diplomat

Just over a month after China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Myanmar and announced that a China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) Plus initiative would be explored at a proper time, there have unsurprisingly been no further details released by Chinese officials or Myanmar’s military-led State Administration Council (SAC) on just what the “plus” would entail. More surprisingly, there has been little media or expert commentary on this either. Click here to read…

Ward and village administrators prepared to resign amid military tensions in Maungdaw Twsp – BNI Online

unta-appointed ward and village administrators in Arakan State’s Maungdaw Township, where junta troops and the Arakan Army (AA) have exchanged fire in recent weeks, say they are prepared to resign amid rising military-AA tensions. U Kyaw Nyunt, the administrator of Minkhamoung village, and U Maung Thein Nyunt, the administrator of Tamanthar village, reportedly already tendered resignation letters to the township administrator for safety reasons on August 2 and 5 respectively. Click here to read…

Nepal
China, Nepal vow to step up cooperation – China Daily

China will use its aid funds for Nepal to support the feasibility study of a China-Nepal cross-border railway and will send experts to Nepal to conduct surveying work within this year, according to the Foreign Ministry. Click here to read…

No critical examination of flawed environmental assessments in Nepal, experts say – MongaBay

When Nepal’s Supreme Court recently canceled government plans to build an international airport in Nijhgad in the country’s south, the project’s environmental impact assessment report, or EIA, was one of the reasons cited in the decision. Click here to read…

Digital Currency Lands in The Country of Nepal – The Coin Republic

The monetary authority would be able to produce a digital version of the nation’s fiat currency, the Nepalese rupee, if the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) were to amend the statute defining its powers and responsibilities. The report comes after a research that found a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to be a workable initiative. The head of the bank’s currency management division, Revati Nepal, claims that a task team has already created an amendment bill. Click here to read…

Nepal’s Ambassador to Pakistan meets Pak NA member Alam – Khabar Hub

Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan Tapas Adhikari held talks with Romina Khursid Alam, Member of National Assembly and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister/Minister of State Convener Parliamentary Task Force on SDG at the Embassy. Click here to read…

Pakistan
Islamabad court rejects police request to extend Shahbaz Gill’s physical remand: Dawn

Gill was arrested on Tuesday afternoon at Banigala Chowk in the capital after a video clip of his remarks made about the army, aired on ARY News, went viral on social media. He was subsequently booked under charges of sedition and inciting the public against the state institutions. Click here to read…

SBP’s forex reserves fall to near 3-year low of $7.4bn: The News

The State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) foreign currency reserves fell to their lowest level in almost three years at $7.83 billion as of August 5 from $8.385 billion a week earlier on debt payments, data from the central bank showed on Thursday. Click here to read…

Govt cobbles up plan to tackle TTP resurgence: The Express Tribune

Although the government has been holding talks with the TTP for months to broker some kind of a deal, prospects of such an agreement are grim, sources familiar with the development told The Express Tribune on Thursday. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Govt. directly handles matter with Chinese Embassy: Daily Mirror

The government has reportedly taken over the handling of the diplomatic issue regarding the Yuan Wang 5 ship directly through the Chinese Embassy in Colombo instead of going through the Sri Lankan mission in Beijing, Daily Mirror learns. Sri Lanka asked China to postpone the port call of this ship following security threats cited by India. Click here to read…

India plans investments across sectors to strengthen link with Sri Lankan economy: Economic Times

New Delhi plans to invest in Sri Lanka across sectors through both private and public firms and interconnect the Lankan economy with the Indian economy to boost the sagging fortunes of the island nation. Click here to read…

VIF News Digest: National Security – Defence Studies & Terrorism, 16-31 July 2022

DEFENCE

  • Chief of Army Staff Proceeds on a Three Day Visit to Bangladesh.
  • Prime Minister unveils ‘SPRINT’.
  • Joint Press Release of the 16th Round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting.
  • Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) conducted between Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Navy.
  • Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing.
  • Development Work by Defence Industries.
  • MoD accords high priority to indigenisation of Software Defined Radios for the Armed Forces.
  • iDEX-DIO signs 100th contract for defence innovation.
  • Defence Acquisition Council, approves arms procurement proposals worth Rs 28,732 crore.
  • Second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) inaugurated by RM.
  • Delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant’.
  • Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on a visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
  • Royal Army of Oman contingent for joint exercise Al NAJAH-IV arrive in India.
  • Vietnam India bilateral army exercise “Ex VINBAX 2022”.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia
  • “Hizbu’llah has all of Israel in its missile range,” Hizbu’llah leader Nasrallah.
Africa
Ethiopia
  • Al-Shabaab terrorists carried out cross-border attack into Ethiopia’s Somali region.
Somalia
  • US airstrike killed two al-Shabaab terrorists in Lower Juba region.
Nigeria
  • Five Boko Haram terrorists surrendered in Borno State.
Mali
  • Islamist terrorists attacked Mali’s main military base outside Bamako.
Afghanistan
  • “Al-Qa’ida and Islamic State are gaining strength in Afghanistan”, claimed the UNSC report.
  • US killed al-Qa’ida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in a counter-terrorism operation in Kabul.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir
  • NIA searched multiple locations in Srinagar in “Chanapora Arms Recovery in Srinagar” case.
  • SIA unearthed the nexus between JeM and Punjab-based gangsters.
Left-Wing Extremism
  • NIA arrested a Maoist associate in connection with “Terror Financing by CPI (Maoist) in Bihar” case.
  • Police killed a Maoist in an anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh.
  • NIA searched multiple locations in Jharkhand in connection with “killing of police personnel and looting of arms and ammunition by CPI (Maoists)” case.
  • “Maoist-affected Districts reduced to 46 in 2021”, informed MoS for Home Affairs.
  • NIA arrested a Maoist associate in revival of Magadh zone of CPI (Maoist) case.
Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)
  • NIA searched multiple locations in six States in connection with “ISIS module” case.
  • NIA arrested 08th accused in “Udaipur killing” case.
  • NIA searched multiple locations in connection with “PFI Phulwari Sharif” case in Bihar.
  • Khalistan-inspired Extremism
    • India raised concerns at the growth of pro-Khalistan movement in Canada.
    Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) Cases
    • NIA Special Court (Bihar) convicted and sentenced a FICN trafficker in “FICN case of East Champaran, Bihar”.
    Narcotics-Trafficking
    • NIA searched multiple locations in Tamil Nadu in the case of “Narcotics and Arms trafficking to India and Sri Lanka”.

    DEFENCE

    DRDO conducts successful maiden flight of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.

    Maiden flight of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator was carried out successfully by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Operating in a fully autonomous mode, the aircraft exhibited a perfect flight, including take-off, way point navigation and a smooth touchdown. It is powered by a small turbofan engine, the airframe, undercarriage and entire flight control and avionics systems used for the aircraft were developed indigenously. This flight marks a major milestone in terms of proving critical technologies towards the development of future unmanned aircraft.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Chief of Army Staff Proceeds on a Three Day Visit to Bangladesh.

    Continuing with the excellent bilateral defence ties between India and Bangladesh, General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) proceeded on a visit to the Bangladesh from 18 to 20 July 2022. This is the first foreign visit by General Manoj Pande since assumption as Army Chief.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Prime Minister unveils ‘SPRINT.

    Prime Minister (PM) Shri Narendra Modi unveiled ‘SPRINT Challenges’, aimed at giving a boost to the usage of indigenous technology in Indian Navy, during Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) seminar ‘Swavlamban’ in New Delhi on July 18, 2022. NIIO, in conjunction with the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), aims to induct at least 75 new indigenous technologies/products into the Indian Navy. This collaborative project is named SPRINT {Supporting Pole-Vaulting in R&D through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), NIIO and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC)}. In the last 4-5 years, PM said the defence imports have come down by about 21 per cent. Today we are moving fast from the biggest defence importer to a big exporter. Last year, Rs 13,000 crore worth of defence export was done with more than 70 percent of which being from the private sector, he pointed out.

    In the conference Shri Rajnath Singh informed the Prime Minister that in line with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign, the Indian Navy spent over 64% of its capital budget in domestic procurement in the last financial year and it is expected to increase to 70% in the current financial year.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Joint Press Release of the 16th Round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting.

    The 16th round India- China Corps Commander Level Meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Indian side on 17th July 2022.

    Building on the progress made at the last meeting on 11th March 2022, the two sides continued discussions for the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the Western Sector in a constructive and forward looking manner. They had a frank and in-depth exchange of views in this regard, in keeping with the guidance provided by the State Leaders to work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest. The two sides reaffirmed that the resolution of remaining issues would help in restoration of peace and tranquility along the LAC in the Western Sector and enable progress in bilateral relations. In the interim, the two sides agreed to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest.
    Reference: Click here to read…

    Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) conducted between Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Navy.

    A Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) was conducted between Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Indian Navy on 23 Jul 22 in Andaman Sea. This exercise is part of the ongoing efforts between the two navies towards ensuring safe and secure international shipping and trade in Indian Ocean Region.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing.

    The Government has taken several policy initiatives in the past few years and brought in reforms to encourage indigenous design, development and manufacture of defence equipment in the country, thereby expanding the production of indigenous defence equipment. With these actions of the Government, the expenditure on defence procurement from foreign sources which used to be 46% of the overall expenditure has reduced to 36% in the last four years i.e. 2018-19 to 2021-22.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Development Work by Defence Industries.

    In continuous pursuit of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ and in sync with the announcement made in the Union Budget 2022-23 that allocated 25% of Defence R&D Budget for industry led R&D, 18 (eighteen) major platforms have been identified and announced by the Ministry of Defence for industry led Design & Development under various routes prescribed in Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020, namely, Make-I, Make-II, Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).
    For more information: Click here to read…

    MoD accords high priority to indigenisation of Software Defined Radios for the Armed Forces.

    Ministry of Defence (MoD) has fast-tracked the indigenisation of Software Defined Radios (SDRs) with country’s premier R&D institutions viz. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur to fulfill the increasing demand by the Armed Forces across a broad spectrum of operations. Two key elements of indigenous SDR technology are the standardised operating software environment (OE) and applications (also known as waveforms) with associated waveforms repository and test/certification facility. Standard OE enables waveform portability and interoperability among SDRs of multiple vendors. Towards this, the Ministry of Defence has taken a decision to define and develop reference implementation of India specific operating environment called India Software Communication Architecture (SCA) profile or Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA).
    For more information: Click here to read…

    iDEX-DIO signs 100th contract for defence innovation.

    iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence), signed its 100th contract on 26 July 2022. Till date, iDEX has launched iDEX Prime, seven rounds of DISC (including DISC SPRINT) and five rounds of OC, receiving more than 4,000 applications from individual innovators, MSMEs and start-ups. More than Rs 250 crore worth of projects have been allocated and procurement of 14 items worth over Rs 400 crore have been cleared. In the last four years, 17 start-ups in 14 projects have already been accorded the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for trial and procurement in March 2022. Projects from balance of DISC 1 & 2 and some from DISC 3 are nearing completion and may be accorded AoN by DAC by end of current Financial Year.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Defence Acquisition Council, approves arms procurement proposals worth Rs 28,732 crore.

    The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, was held on July 26, 2022. Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for Capital Acquisition Proposals of the Armed Forces amounting to Rs 28,732 crore were accorded by the DAC in this meeting under Buy (Indian IDDM) and Buy (Indian) categories giving a further boost to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in Defence.

    Among the proposals approved by DAC in the meeting are three proposals of the Indian Army, viz. Guided Extended Range Rocket Ammunition, Area Denial Munition Type I and Infantry Combat Vehicle – Command have been designed and developed by DRDO. The total value of these three proposals is Rs 8,599 crore. DAC aslo accorded AoN for Bullet Proof Jackets with Indian Standard BIS VI level of protection. To combat the current complex paradigm of conventional and hybrid warfare and counter terrorism at the borders, AoN for induction of approx. four lakh of Close Quarter Battle Carbines for the Services has also been accorded by the DAC.

    AoN were also accorded for procurement of Autonomous Surveillance and Armed Drone Swarms has been accorded by the DAC under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. The DAC also approved Navy’s proposal to procure upgraded 1250KW capacity Marine Gas Turbine Generator for power generation application onboard Kolkata class of ships through Indian Industry. This will give a major boost to indigenous manufacturing of gas turbine generators. In order to enhance the security in the coastal region of the country, the DAC also approved the proposal of procurement of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) for Indian Coast Guard under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) with 60% IC.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) inaugurated by RM.

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has called for innovations in the field of ammunition for the creation of a strong and self-reliant base that keeps the Armed Forces fully prepared to deal with future challenges. He was addressing the inaugural session of the second conference on Military Ammunition (Ammo India) on the theme ‘Make in India Opportunities and Challenges’ in New Delhi on July 27, 2022. The Raksha Mantri described advanced ammunition as the reality of the new age warfare, which is a must for India, given its regional & global imperatives and security challenges.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant.

    Indian Navy took delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant on 28 July 2022, from her builder Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi. Designed by Indian Navy’s inhouse Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and built by CSL, a Public Sector Shipyard under Ministry of Shipping (MoS), the carrier is christened after her illustrious predecessor, India’s first Aircraft Carrier. The 262 mtr long carrier has a full displacement of close to 45,000 tonnes which is much larger and advanced than her predecessor. The ship is powered by four Gas Turbines totaling 88 MW power and has a maximum speed of 28 Knots. Built at an overall cost of close to Rs. 20,000 Crs. The ship’s keel was laid in Feb 2009, followed by launching in Aug 2013, with an overall indigenous content of 76%.

    The ship would be capable of operating air wing consisting of 30 aircraft comprising of MIG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, in addition to indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) (Navy). Using a novel aircraft-operation mode known as STOBAR (Short Take- Off but Arrested Landing).
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on a visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

    General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has proceeded on a visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan from 29 July. This visit will further enhance the unique and time-tested bilateral relationship, characterised by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Royal Army of Oman contingent for joint exercise Al NAJAH-IV arrive in India.

    The 4th Edition of India Oman Joint Military Exercise ‘AL NAJAH-IV’ between contingents of Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman is scheduled to take place at the Foreign Training Node of Mahajan Field Firing Ranges (Rajasthan) from 01 to 13 August 2022. The Royal Army of Oman contingent comprising 60 personnel from the Sultan of Oman Parachute Regiment have arrived at the exercise location. The Indian Army is represented by troops from the 18 MECHANISED INFANTRY Battalion. The previous edition of Ex AL NAJAH IV was organised at Muscat from 12 to 25 March 2019.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Vietnam India bilateral army exercise “Ex VINBAX 2022”.

    The 3rd Edition of Vietnam India Bilateral Army Exercise “Ex VINBAX 2022” is scheduled to be conducted at Chandimandir from 01 to 20 Aug 2022. The exercise is a sequel to previously conducted bilateral exercise in Vietnam in 2019 and a major milestone in strengthening the bilateral relations between India and Vietnam. India and Vietnam share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership. The theme of Ex VINBAX – 2022 is employment and deployment of an Engineer Company and a Medical Team as part of United Nations Contingent for Peace Keeping Operations.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

    West Asia
    “Hizbu’llah has all of Israel in its missile range,” Hizbu’llah leader Nasrallah.

    In an interview on 25 July 2022, Lebanese Hizbu’llah leader Hassan Nasrallah said that “all of Israel is within the range of Hizbu’llah’s missiles. Boasting about drones, Nasrallah said that the recent drone operation, targeting Israel’s Karish gas field, was carried out by the group. Though Israel shot down the drone, but Nasrallah informed Al-Mayadeen media that over the period in the past, Hizbu’llah used drones over Israel many times.

    Nasrallah suggested that Hizbu’llah could gain from the trip of the US President Biden to the region by bringing Iranian oil and gas to Lebanon, and that Hizbu’llah can exploit Lebanon’s crisis and the US’ desire for stability in the region.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Africa
    Ethiopia
    Al-Shabaab terrorists carried out cross-border attack into Ethiopia’s Somali region.

    On 21 July 2022, al-Shabaab terrorists from Somalia launched a cross-border attack into Ethiopia’s Somali region. This is the first time that al-Shabaab carried out a terrorist attack in Ethiopia. According to Somali military and Ethiopia’s paramilitary Liyu police, several al-Shabaab terrorists crossed into the Afdher zone and took control of several of their positions. However, with heavy police casualties, all positions were recaptured. According to Somali military officials posted in Bakool— the region that borders Ethiopia, around 87 al-Shabaab terrorists were killed in the gun-battle.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Somalia
    US airstrike killed two al-Shabaab terrorists in Lower Juba region.

    On 17 July 2022, the United States (US) Africa Command, in coordination with the government of Somalia, carried out airstrike and killed two al-Shabaab terrorists in a remote location near Libikus in Lower Juba region, Somalia. The strike was carried out after al-Shabaab attacked partner forces in the region. According to the statement released, “violent extremist organisations like al-Shabaab present long-term threats to Somali, regional and US interests.”
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Nigeria
    Five Boko Haram terrorists surrendered in Borno State.

    On 22 July 2022, five Boko Haram terrorists, including Mallam Isa, a commander, surrendered before the 73 Battalion of the Nigerian Army during “Operation Hadin Kai” in Borno State. “Preliminary investigation discovered that terrorists were said to have come out from Gazuwa, a new HQ of Boko Haram, located about 08 kilometres to Bama Local Government area,” said Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert. According to the Theatre Commander of North-East Joint Task Force of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’— Christopher Musa, “more than 67,000 terrorists have surrendered to troops so far.”
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Mali
    Islamist terrorists attacked Mali’s main military base outside Bamako.

    On 22 July 2022, Islamist terrorists of al-Qa’ida and Islamic State affiliated groups attacked Mali’s main military base in Kati, outside the Capital Bamako, however, the armed forces had repelled the attack and brought situation under control. In a statement released by military, “the attack involved two car bombs and was carried out by a local al-Qa’ida affiliated group— Katiba Macina.” Katiba Macina is more active terror group in Central Mali.

    In attack, a soldier was martyred and six people were wounded, while seven terrorists were killed and eight got arrested, read the statement. The military blamed Katiba Macina for several attacks on 21 July 2022 against military bases in Central Mali in which a soldier was martyred and 15 others were wounded.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Afghanistan
    “Al-Qa’ida and Islamic State are gaining strength in Afghanistan”, claimed the UNSC report.

    The 30th report of the United Nations Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team revealed the activities of al-Qa’ida (AQ), Islamic State (IS), and other terrorist groups in Afghanistan, and concluded that al-Qa’ida and IS related threats are high in the conflict zones and the neighbouring countries though both terror groups are likely to attempt an attack in non-conflicted areas.

    An Afghan national— Sanaullah Ghafari aka Shahab al-Muhajir, has been leading the Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP/IS-K) since June 2000. However, the IS core has established a separate structure called Al-Siddiq office under Sheikh Tamim al-Kurdi aka Abu Ahmed al-Madani for group’s regional agenda. The report also pointed about the IS-KP’s increased presence in northern and eastern Afghanistan. The group has terrorists from the Central Asia, who have increased activities in the north, bordering Central Asian states of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    US killed al-Qa’ida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in a counter-terrorism operation in Kabul.

    On 01 August 2022, United States (US) President— Joe Biden, announced that in a counter-terrorism operation carried out on 30 July 2022 in Kabul, Afghanistan, the US government killed the al-Qa’ida leader— Ayman al-Zawahiri. “Al-Zawahiri coordinated al-Qa’ida’s branches all around the world since Bin Laden’s death in 2011, including setting priorities for providing operational guidance that call for and inspire attacks against US targets,” explained the US President during the announcement.

    “The United States continues to demonstrate our resolve and our capacity to defend the American people against those who seek to do us harm,” Biden continued. “We make it clear again tonight that, no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out,” added the US President.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    DOMESTIC TERRORISM

    Jammu and Kashmir
    NIA searched multiple locations in Srinagar in “Chanapora Arms Recovery in Srinagar” case.

    On 20 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched nine locations in Kashmir, including four in Srinagar district and five in Pulwama district, in the case— RC-04/2022/NIA/JMU related to the conspiracy of conducting terror attacks in and around Srinagar, in which four operatives were arrested and 15 pistols, 30 magazines, 300 rounds, and one Mahindra-built Scorpio vehicle were seized.

    The case was re-registered by the NIA on 18 June 2022. The NIA officials seized digital devices and other incriminating materials.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    SIA unearthed the nexus between JeM and Punjab-based gangsters.

    The State Investigation Agency (SIA) in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) unearthed the nexus between Pakistan-based terrorist group— Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Punjab-based gangsters, as the SIA filed a chargesheet against five operatives in a terror-funding related case registered in 2021.

    The case was related to the recovery of ₹ 43 lakh by Jammu police at the Sidhra bridge, from Kashmir-bound vehicle, on 16 November 2021. The SIA filed a chargesheet before the Special NIA court in Jammu on 26 July 2022, against five operatives, including JeM commander— Ashiq Nengroo (presently operating from Pakistan), Muzammil Ahmad Malik (JeM operative) from Pulwama, and other three Punjab-based gangsters— i) Ravi Kumar, ii) Jaideep Dhawan, and iii) Amarbir Singh (all residents of Punjab), under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], the Arms Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Left-Wing Extremism
    NIA arrested a Maoist associate in connection with “Terror Financing by CPI (Maoist) in Bihar” case.

    On 28 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested— Rajesh Gupta, a Maoist associate, in connection to a conspiracy by CPI (Maoist) cadres and others for attempting to revive the banned organisation’s module in the Son-Ganga Bindh region of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh (UP).

    The case— RC-19/2022/NIA/DLI was re-registered on 26 April 2022 and NIA taken over the investigation. Earlier, NIA had arrested 03 associates in this case on 12 April 2022 and 25 May 2022. Rajesh Gupta is a close associate of earlier arrested Vijay Kumar Arya— a Central Committee Member (CCM) and was actively involved in reviving the module in Son-Ganga Bindh region.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Police killed a Maoist in an anti-naxal operation in Chhattisgarh.

    On 26 July 2022, Chhattisgarh police eliminated a Maoist— Budh Ram Madkam aka Mahangu Deva, a member of Katekalyan Area Committee of CPI (Maoist), in forest near Jabrameta village of Dantewada district in Chhattisgarh.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    NIA searched multiple locations in Jharkhand in connection with “killing of police personnel and looting of arms and ammunition by CPI (Maoists)” case.

    On 27 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 03 locations of suspects in connection with suspects’ involvement in an attack on police party on 14 June 2019 at Kukru Haat in Saraikela-Kherswan district in Jharkhand. In the attack, five police personnel attained Veergati, and their arms and ammunitions were looted by perpetrators.

    The case— RC-39/2020/NIA/DLI was re-registered by the NIA on 09 December 2020. The NIA officials recovered digital devices, illicit weapons and ammunitions, and various incriminating materials.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    “Maoist-affected Districts reduced to 46 in 2021”, informed MoS for Home Affairs.

    The Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs— Nityanand Rai, on 26 July 2022, informed the Lok Sabha (the Lower House of the Indian Parliament) that number of Maoist-affected districts has reduced from 70 in the year 2014 to 46 in 2021. Along with, the incidents inspired from Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) have recorded significant reduction from 1,091 in 2014 to 509 incidents in 2021.

    The Minister also informed the Lok Sabha about Central government-led schemes for Maoist-affected areas, including Security Related Expenditure Scheme (SRES), Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS), Road Requirement Plan-1, mobile connectivity projects in Maoist affected districts.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    NIA arrested a Maoist associate in revival of Magadh zone of CPI (Maoist) case.

    On 25 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested— Tarun Kumar, in connection with a case— RC-05/2021/NIA/RNC, where CPI (Maoist) cadre prominent— Pradyuman Sharma and others, were conspiring to revive a module of banned organisation in Magadh zone. Tarun Kumar, along with other accused conspired to raise funds for procurement of arms and ammunition and training the fellow cadres in fabrication of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).

    The group was also planning to create nexus with incarcerated naxals and Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) in various jails for commission of violent crimes.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)
    NIA searched multiple locations in six States in connection with “ISIS module” case.

    On 31 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) searched 13 premises of Islamic State (IS) suspects in six Indian States— i) Gujarat, ii) Bihar, iii) Karnataka, iv) Maharashtra, v) Uttar Pradesh, and vi) Madhya Pradesh, in a case related to Islamic State (ISIS) module and its activities.

    On 25 June 2022, the case— RC-26/2022/NIA/DLI was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].
    For more information: Click here to read…

    NIA arrested 08th accused in “Udaipur killing” case.

    On 21 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested the 08th accused— Mohammed Javed (age 19 years), in the case— RC-27/2022/NIA/DLI pertaining to the killing of Shri Kanhaiya Lal Teli in Udaipur, Rajasthan, by two Islamic extremists armed with sharp weapons at his tailor shop on 28 June 2022.

    The NIA re-registered the case on 29 June 2022 and taken over the investigation. Earlier, 07 accused were arrested in the case on 29 June, 01 July, 04 July, and 09 July 2022. Mohammed Javed had played an important role in the killing by conducting recce and conveying the information about the victim to one of the main perpetrators— Riyaz, prior to the brutal murder.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    NIA searched multiple locations in connection with “PFI Phulwari Sharif” case in Bihar.

    On 28 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out searches at 10 locations of the PFI operatives in Bihar, for their alleged involvement with the Popular Front of India (PFI) in anti-national activities.

    The case— RC-31/2022/NIA/DLI was re-registered by the NIA on 22 July 2022 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The NIA officials seized digital devices and several incriminating materials from the sites.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) Cases
    NIA Special Court (Bihar) convicted and sentenced a FICN trafficker in “FICN case of East Champaran, Bihar”.

    On 22 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, Bihar, convicted and sentenced— Mohammad Ali Akhtar Ansari for his involvement in the Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) proliferation in India. The case— RC-08/2016/NIA/DLI pertains to the seizure of a parcel containing high quality FICNs worth around ₹ 25 lakhs. Mohammad Akhtar came to Raxaul, to take delivery of the FICNs consignment on 30 September 2015, and was subsequently arrested.

    According to the investigation, the seized FICNs had been smuggled from a foreign country into India and supposed to be delivered to another accused— Abi Mohammad of Nepal. Investigation also revealed that a Pakistani national— Syed Muhammad Shaffi, now residing in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), had couriered the parcel from the UAE via ICS (International Courier Service). Mohammad Akhtar Ansari rewarded 20 years of Rigorous Imprisonment (RI) with ₹ 50,000 as fine under Section 16 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], 10 years of RI with ₹ 25,000 as fine under Section 489B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and 07 years of RI under Section 489C of the IPC by the NIA Special Court (Patna), Bihar.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    Narcotics-Trafficking
    NIA searched multiple locations in Tamil Nadu in the case of “Narcotics and Arms trafficking to India and Sri Lanka”.

    On 20 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency officials searched 22 premises of suspects at various locations in Tamil Nadu in connection with the case— RC-29/2022/NIA/DLI, pertaining to illicit activities of Sri Lankan drug mafia being operated by C Gunashekharan in association with Haji Salim— drug and arms supplier based in Pakistan.

    The drugs and arms traffickers have been operating in India and Sri Lanka, and have been conspiring for the revival of the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) terror group and to further its violent activities. The case was registered suo moto by the NIA on 08 July 2022 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], read with sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
    For more information: Click here to read…

    VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 10, 2022

    Afghanistan
    World Bank: Afghanistan at Great Risk of Overlapping Food, Debt Crises: Tolo News

    Seven countries are at greatest risk of overlapping food and debt crises: Afghanistan, Eritrea, Mauritania, Somalia, Sudan, Tajikistan, and Yemen, the World Bank said in a recent report. “Overlapping debt and food crises can have devastating impacts, with international assistance the only solution,” the report citedClick here to read…

    Amnesty International Calls on Taliban to Protect Shia Community after Deadly Explosions: The Khaama Press

    Following a string of attacks over the past several days that left almost 120 people dead and injured in the Afghan capital, Kabul, Amnesty International has urged the Taliban to step up measures to protect members of the Hazara Shia minority in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh
    China: Bangladesh’s exports will thrive with 98% duty-free market access: Dhaka Tribune

    The duty-free treatment of 98% tariff-line goods will help Bangladesh increase its exports to China, the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka said on Tuesday. State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his recent visit to Bangladesh announced that the duty-free treatment of 98% tariff-line goods originating from Bangladesh exported to China will come into effect on September 1. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh textile faces major challanges amid global recession: ThePrint

    Bangladesh’s textile industry is currently facing major challenges due to the global recession and inflation as retailers in both European and US markets are either deferring the shipments of finished products or delaying orders due to soaring inflation. Click here to read…

    Bhutan
    Bangladesh grants duty-free access to 16 products of Bhutan – Dhaka Tribune

    A total of 16 Bhutanese products now have new duty-free access in Bangladesh. The Finance Ministry’s Internal Resources Division (IRD) published an order in this regard on Monday. Bangladesh granted this facility to Bhutan under the 2020 Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). Click here to read…

    ADB supports pediatric, booster vaccination against Covid-19 in Bhutan – Kuensel Online

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 10 million (M) loan to help Bhutan to purchase safe and effective vaccines against Covid-19. According to a press release from the bank, the loan will finance the purchase of at least 1.28M doses of Covid-19 vaccines which are expected to support Bhutan achieve its 100 percent vaccine coverage target by 2024. Click here to read…

    Reopening Bhutan draws tour operators – Travel Weekly

    The Trans Bhutan Trail will reopen on Sept. 28 to travelers after it had been closed for more than 60 years. The 250-mile trail was once a Buddhist pilgrimage route but fell into disrepair as the country began to invest more in building national roadways. Click here to read…

    Maldives
    FM Shahid committed to further enhance Maldives-Singapore relations – Raajje

    Abdulla Shahid, Maldives’ Minister of Foreign Affairs has expressed keen interest to enhance relations between Maldives and Singapore, in the future. The Maldivian foreign minister said this in a message sent to Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan on the auspicious occasion of Singapore’s 57th National Day. Click here to read…

    Maldives and US launch counter-terrorism exercise in Male – Daiji World

    The US and the Maldives have kick-started the ‘Tempest Wind 2022’ joint counter-terrorism exercise from August 7 to 18. These are being held in capital Male and the central Maldives as planned by the Maldives Defence Force (MNDF). Click here to read…

    Maldives reopens 40MWh battery storage tender for island solar – Energy Storage News

    The South Asian island nation’s Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology announced the reopening this morning. Eligible bidders have been given until 1pm local time on 27 October 2022 to submit their completed bids but must register with the Maldives Ministry of Finance between 4 August and 20 October first. Click here to read…

    Myanmar
    China and Russia enable Myanmar military’s brazen behavior – Asia Nikkei

    Myanmar’s military regime is accelerating its crackdown on pro-democracy forces, including by executing political prisoners. Last week, the foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations issued a joint communique expressing the bloc’s deep disappointment toward the regime’s lack of commitment to an agreement to immediately halt violence and accept a visit by a special envoy who would meet all parties concerned. Click here to read…

    Myanmar: Japan-Trained General Linked to Abusive Forces – HRW

    A Myanmar army general who received military training in Japan served as a high-ranking officer in a regional command that has been implicated in serious abuses in ethnic minority areas, Human Rights Watch said todayClick here to read…

    Report of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar – IIMM UN

    The present document is the fourth report submitted by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar to the Human Rights Council pursuant to resolution 39/2 of 27 September 2018, and it covers the Mechanism’s activities from 16 June 2021 to 30 June 2022. Click here to read…

    Myanmar: Crimes against humanity committed systematically, says UN report – UN News

    The evidence gathered to date by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), which is outlined in its Annual Report, indicates that sexual and gender-based crimes, including rape and other forms of sexual violence, and crimes against children have been perpetrated by members of the security forces and armed groups. Click here to read…

    Militants attack Indian forces near India-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh – Hindustan Times

    A Junior Commissioned Officer of Assam Rifles was injured after militants attacked the paramilitary patrol on India-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh. Officials said that the firing came from across the border during routine patrolling at Pangsau Pass Post near the International Border. Watch the video for more details. Click here to read…

    Myanmar central bank weakens official fx rate for kyat currency by 13.5% – Channel News Asia

    Myanmar’s central bank weakened its kyat currency from 1,850 to 2,100 per dollar on Monday, according to a statement published in a state newspaper. Myanmar’s economy has collapsed since the military seized power last year, halting a decade of reforms, putting pressure on the kyat’s value against the dollar, and driving up fuel and food prices. Click here to read…

    Myanmar’s UN rep calls for resistance aid to fight the junta – BNI Online

    Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to the United Nations was speaking on a webinar on Myanmar entitled “Responding to the Brutal, Escalating Crisis in Myanmar” organized by the Asia Society Policy Institute, held on 3 August. Click here to read…

    Nepal
    Foreign Ministers of Nepal and China holding talks in Qingdao today – Khabar Hub

    Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Narayan Khadka, who is on a China visit, is holding talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi today. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister Dr. Khadka and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi are going to hold bilateral talks. Foreign Minister Khadka, leading a Nepali delegation, left for China on Tuesday night. Click here to read…

    US Special Envoy to visit India, Nepal to advance human rights of LGBTQI+ – Business standard

    US Special Envoy Envoy Jessica Stern will visit India and Nepal to advance the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in each country, according to the statement released by State Department. Stern will be visiting Nepal from August 10 to 14 and will travel to India from August 23-27. Click here to read…

    Foreign employment revival – Nepali Times

    The Covid pandemic had a major impact on Nepal’s economic mainstay, overseas employment. Those stuck abroad in 2020 were unable to return to Nepal, even when they lost their jobs. Migrant workers in Nepal could not resume or start overseas employment. Many chose to stay on and hold on to jobs, even when wages and work hours were not ideal. Click here to read…

    The 1949 Geneva Conventions and Nepal – Kathmandu Post

    The Geneva Conventions are turning 73 on August 12. The Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols are key instruments of international humanitarian law (IHL) which regulate the conduct of armed conflict and seek to mitigate suffering. IHL protects people not taking part in hostilities and those who are no longer taking part. Click here to read…

    Pakistan
    The nation at 75: Dawn

    Our major freedom anniversaries have all seen us in or near major crises. The 25th one saw us healing the trauma of 1971; the 50th one saw us about to plunge into the nuclear world. On our 75th one, we face a huge crisis with the economy and key institutions under great stressClick here to read…

    PM Shehbaz, UAE president resolve to further strengthen bilateral ties: The Express Tribune

    During the conversation, the two leaders exchanged views on matters of common interest. Reaffirming the close fraternal ties between the two countries, they agreed to work closely to further enhance bilateral cooperation in different fields. Click here to read…

    Sheikh Rasheed warns govt against arresting Imran Khan: The News

    Awami Muslim League chief and former interior minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed has once again warned the government that attempts to arrest Imran Khan or break the PTI would trigger bloody politics in the country. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka
    Prez: Military saved Parliament, democracy: The Island

    President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (09) paid a glowing tribute to the military for saving democracy by thwarting an attempt made by the violent protest movement to capture the country’s Parliament. Click here to read…

    Chinese social media platform bars a promotional campaign by SL: Daily Mirror

    A Chinese social media platform has suspended a promotional campaign organized by the Sri Lankan embassy apparently in tit for tat for the government’s move to suspend the visit of the Chinese ship, a top source said. The Sri Lankan authorities organized this campaign to be launched on Friday on ‘Douyin’. However, the Sri Lankan mission has been informed that it cannot be implemented. Click here to read…

    Indian Oil Corporation to expand operations in Sri Lanka: The Hindu

    The Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) will expand its operations in Sri Lanka by opening 50 fuelling stations, a top official of the Lanka Indian Oil Corporation (LIOC) said on August 8, amidst the worst economic- as well as fuel crisis facing the island nation. Click here to read…

    VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 09, 2022

    Bhutan
    Jolted by Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan ‘taking steps to strengthen economy’, says FM Dorji – The Print

    In an exclusive interview to ThePrint, Dorji said, Bhutan’s economy, though “tiny” compared to other countries, was not spared the impact of Covid-19. Hence, since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020, Thimphu implemented strict border containment measures and safety protocols that resulted in key economic sectors such as tourism, construction, and manufacturing being “severely affected”. Click here to read…

    Why India should support China-Bhutan boundary agreement – First Post

    India and Bhutan had signed a Treaty of Friendship on 9 August 1949 whereby the two nations agreed on non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. However, Bhutan consented to allow India to “guide” its foreign policy and that both countries would consult each other on foreign and defence matters. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh gives duty-free access to 16 more Bhutanese products – TBS News

    The Internal Resource Division (IRD) of the finance ministry issued an order in this regard on 4 August and it was published on Monday. In December 2020, Bangladesh granted duty-free access to 34 products of Bhutan under a preferential trade agreement (PTA). Click here to read…

    Maldives
    Solih’s visit: Delhi’s push to counter anti-India sentiment in the Maldives – Deccan Herald

    In a statement that was unusually long and effusive, the President of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India repeatedly for the various initiatives taken by New Delhi to assist his country shortly after the two sides had concluded delegation level talks. Click here to read…

    Maldives Public Expenditure Review: Restoring fiscal health – World Bank Documents

    The Maldives Public Expenditure Review (MPER) aims to help the government identify reforms to reduce fiscal and debt vulnerabilities and thus ensure a more secure, sustainable, and inclusive future. Although Maldives has bounced back strongly from the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the shock has illuminated longstanding vulnerabilities in the tourism-dependent economy. Click here to read…

    Undocumented in Maldives: 34k Bangladeshis to get papers – The Daily Star

    About 34,000 Bangladeshi undocumented migrant workers in the Maldives are in the pipeline for regularisation under an amnesty programme there, according to an estimate of Bangladesh High Commission in Malé. Click here to read…

    Continuity and challenges in the India-Maldives relations – WIO News

    Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s four-day visit to India has come at a time when India’s neighbourhood is in flux. The economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal is creating greater instability in a region that is already experiencing perpetual strategic hostilities by Pakistan and China against India. Click here to read…

    Myanmar
    ‘The Sacrifice Zone’: Myanmar bears cost of green energy – News Channel

    The AP investigation drew on dozens of interviews, customs data, corporate records and Chinese academic papers, along with satellite imagery and geological analysis gathered by the environmental non-profit Global Witness, to tie rare earths from Myanmar to the supply chains of 78 companies. Click here to read…

    Spring Revolution Interfaith Network calls for victory within a year – Mizzima

    The Spring Revolution Interfaith Network has offered a clarion call saying the revolution should be completed within one year from the date of the 34th anniversary of the 8888 People’s Uprising. The call came on Monday, the anniversary of the 1988 pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar and the one-year anniversary of the founding of the Network. Click here to read…

    Myanmar: ASEAN approach requires a reboot to end horrific crimes by the Myanmar military – Amnesty International

    As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) marks its 55th anniversary today, Amnesty International urges the regional bloc to acknowledge the failure of its five-point plan published in April 2021 to end the violence and increasing human rights violations in Myanmar.Click here to read…

    Japanese company in the spotlight for Myanmar expansion, poor labour practices – Myanmar Now

    Honeys Holdings, a Japanese clothing retailer that produces much of its product line in Myanmar, has decided that cheap labour costs outweigh the risks of doing business in a country in turmoil. Click here to read…

    Dragging Russia Into the Myanmar Conflict – The Irrawaddy

    Russian Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin was the highest-ranking foreign dignitary at the event in Naypyitaw. Two days later, Russia called Myanmar a “reliable ally and strategic partner.” When Russia invaded Ukraine, the regime backed the Kremlin, its spokesman saying that Russia was still a powerful nation that plays a role in keeping the balance of power for world peace. Click here to read…

    NUG Offers Rewards for Myanmar Regime Defectors With Anti-Aircraft Weapons — The Irrawaddy

    Myanmar’s parallel National Unity Government (NUG) is offering cash rewards to junta soldiers who defect with anti-aircraft weapons, as the regime increasingly uses airstrikes on both resistance fighters and civilian targets. Click here to read…

    Nepal
    Nepal gives nod to India’s NHPC to build two projects totalling 1,200MW

    The Investment Board Nepal on Monday gave its nod to India’s state-owned NHPC Limited to study and develop two hydropower projects totalling 1,200MW in western Nepal. Click here to read…

    Will Nepal vote for change?

    The election dates have finally been announced, giving much less preparation time than usual. Political parties are scrambling to find candidates, and potential candidates are already figuring out the price of an election ticket. In South Asian democracies, paying the party and its leaders to get an election ticket is an acceptable social practice, and no one will be ostracised for doing so. Click here to read…

    Environment Minister Yadav pledges to free Nepal from plastic pollution

    Minister for Forest and Environment Pradeep Yadav has expressed his commitment to liberate Nepal from plastic pollution.

    Minister Yadav said he was effortful to free Nepal from plastic pollution.

    “Plastic-induced pollution is one of the major problems in recent days. We should not make any delay in exploring its solution,” the minister added. Click here to read…

    Nepalese Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka to visit China

    Nepalese Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka will arrive in China today for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. This marks the first high-level Nepalese visit to China since the formation of the current government under Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba last July. Click here to read…

    VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 08, 2022

    Afghanistan
    MoD Requests Helicopters Be Returned to Afghanistan: Tolo News

    The Ministry of Defense (MoD) once again asked Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to return the helicopters of the previous administration that were taken following the fall of the republic. Inayatullah Khwarazami, the Defense Ministry’s spokesman, said that Kabul will take the helicopters in the near future. Click here to read…

    Kabul-Delhi Flights Resume, Flights to Urumqi to Begin in Weeks: Tolo News

    The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation said once-a-week flights from Kabul to Delhi on Fridays have begun, and flights to Urumqi, China will begin in two weeks. “The flights to Delhi have started again, Ariana Afghan Airline company will have one flight a week on Fridays. And as the passengers increase, the flights will increase.” said: Imamuddin Ahmadi, spokesman for the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. Click here to read…

    Increasing Security Threats; Taliban Places Restrictions on Ashura Ceremony in Northern Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

    Locals in Mazar-e-Sharif, in Balkh province of northern Afghanistan, say that the Taliban has prevented Ashura ceremony preparations at the shrine of Hazrat Ali, aka Rawza-e-Sharif, and denied permission to hold the Ashura event there for security reasons. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh
    Padma Bridge leads to arrival of largest shipment of reconditioned cars: Dhaka Tribune

    A cargo ship carrying a record number of reconditioned cars from Japan has arrived at Mongla Port directly for the first time. The Malaysian flag carrier, MV Malaysia Star, carrying 1,280 cars docked at jetty 6 of the port on Sunday morning, said Sheikh Fakar Uddin, harbour master of Mongla port. Click here to read…

    Chinese embassy: Bangladesh-China ties promoting common prosperity, shared benefits: Dhaka Tribune

    The long-standing friendship between Bangladesh and China is accelerating the development of both countries, promoting common prosperity and shared benefits, the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka said Sunday night. Click here to read…

    Eastern refinery not expanded in 53 years: The Daily Star

    The country has to regularly import diesel because of its inadequate oil refinery and storage facilities that have not been upgraded since 1968. A project proposal to raise the capacity of the country’s only state-owned Eastern Refinery Limited (ERL) was made 10 years ago. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh seeks China help to repatriate Rohingya refugees: Times of India

    Bangladesh on Monday sought cooperation from China to repatriate Rohingya refugees to Myanmar during a visit by foreign minister Wang Yi, who promised better trade ties, investment and support for infrastructure development in the South Asian nation. Click here to read…

    Bhutan
    Should Bhutan stop importing non-essential items? – Kuensel Online

    With foreign currency reserves depleting, Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering during his recent visit to Bumthang informed that the government could stop the import of non-essential items if the country’s economy does not improve. Click here to read…

    ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ rally organized at Bhutan border – Kuensel Online

    The 6th Bn SSB, stationed at Ranighuli in Kokrajhar organized a ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ rally through its Saralpara camp along Indo-Bhutan border on Saturday. Click here to read…

    Confusion galore: Who will benefit from the new tourism policy, tour operators or hoteliers? – – Kuensel Online

    Citing uncertainties in the hotel business because of the increased sustainable development fees to US$ 200, the head of the company which runs about four hotels decided to send away about 100 employees, to be hired on a daily wage system if the “situation” improved. Click here to read…

    Maldives
    Maldives govt reaffirms commitment to One-China policy – Awaz The Voice

    Replying to media queries, the Foreign Ministry stressed on Maldives’ commitment to the “One China” policy. At the same time, it added that the Ministry will not issue an official statement on the matter, reported Avas.mv. Click here to read…

    Looking forward to increase Maldives-Jamaica relationship: Shahid – Raajje

    Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid has expressed hope that the strong relations that exist between Maldives and Jamaica will continue to grow in the days ahead. Minister Shahid stated this in his message of felicitations to Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica, on the occasion of the 60th Independence Day of Jamaica. Click here to read…

    Myanmar
    Myanmar ambassador to China died on Sunday: Sources – Channel News Asia

    Ambassador U Myo Thant Pe was last seen on Saturday meeting a local official in the southwestern Chinese province of Yunnan which borders Myanmar, according to a local news report. Click here to read…

    FM urges west to impose economic sanctions on Myanmar – New Age BD

    Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen has urged Western leaders to impose tough economic sanctions on Myanmar in order to speed up the repatriation of Rohingyas. He also urged the ASEAN leaders to strengthen their ongoing efforts to help create a conducive environment within Myanmar to help the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals return to their homeland. Click here to read…

    Myanmar shadow embassy opens in Canberra to champion Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted government – The Guardian

    In Myanmar, a resistance armed with homemade weapons is trying to take down the ruling military junta. In Canberra, the fight has begun to get the Australian government to recognise Myanmar’s democratically elected national unity government (NUG). Click here to read…

    Japan’s top envoy promises Tokyo will help ASEAN with Myanmar issue – Japan Times

    Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi on Saturday pledged to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen that Japan will support efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to improve the situation in junta-controlled Myanmar. Click here to read…

    Myanmar military shows how long it had planned its genocide – Arab News

    An investigation by the Commission for International Justice and Accountability, an independent war crimes investigator, indicates that documents exist from as far back as 2014 describing a “national project” of demonization and eventual expulsion. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh Seeks China Help to Repatriate Rohingya Refugees – VOA News

    Bangladesh on Sunday sought cooperation from China to repatriate Rohingya refugees to Myanmar during a visit by Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who promised better trade ties, investment and support for infrastructure development in the South Asian nation. Click here to read…

    ASEAN special envoy to Myanmar warns on further executions – ABC News

    Efforts by Myanmar’s neighbors to help restore peace and normalcy to the strife-torn Southeast Asian nation were hindered by the country’s recent executions of four political activists, Cambodia’s foreign minister said SaturdayClick here to read…

    Nepal
    Storm over teacup: Nepal concerned about possible Indian levies on its tea – New Indian Express

    “Diplomatically India says that Nepal for India is like a younger sister, however, they are threatening us with heavy levies which will lead to a crisis in the sector and endanger livelihoods of thousands of workers,’’ says former Vice Chairman, Tea and Coffee Board of Nepal, Santosh C Kunwar. Click here to read…

    Nepal Prepares to Issue Digital Currency, Drafts Necessary Amendments – bitcoin.com

    A task force in Nepal has proposed legal changes allowing the country’s central bank to issue its own digital currency. The move comes after a study indicated that such an initiative is feasible and recommended certain provisions that would authorize the regulator to proceed with its realization. Click here to read…

    Landslides affect seven hydropower projects in Myagdi – The Himalayan Times

    Seven hydropower projects in Myagdi district have been affected by landslides. Landslides have caused road blockage thus making it difficult to supply construction materials and fuels for the projects, said projects officials. Click here to read…

    Nepal Mental Health Initiative launches its website – The Annapurna Express

    Nepal Mental Health Initiative launched its website containing a publically generated directory of mental health professionals amidst a program organized at the National College Auditorium Hall on Sunday. Click here to read…

    Pakistan
    Imran to spell out ‘counter-fascism’ strategy on Aug 13: Dawn

    Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan on Sunday said that in order to counter the “fascist” government led by coalition parties, he will announce a strategy to “counter this fascism” during a rally at Islamabad’s Parade Ground on August 13. Click here to read…

    Pak-India ‘backchannel’ talks hit dead end: The Express Tribune

    Backchannel contacts between Pakistan and India have met a dead end as both sides have struggled to agree on the moves that may pave the way for slow but gradual improvement in the relationshipClick here to read…

    Pakistan supports China’s ‘all efforts’ in safeguarding its sovereignty, says Ambassador Haque: The Express Tribune

    Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Moinul Haque on Saturday said that Islamabad firmly believes in the one-China principle and supports ‘all efforts’ of the neighbouring country in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Click here to read…

    PM thanks UAE president for investment; phones Emir of Qatar: The News

    In a tweet on social media platform Twitter, he said, “Grateful to my brother His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and Mohamed Bin Zayed for the investment that the UAE is going to make in various sectors of Pakistan. Both brotherly countries are very keen to further strengthen their multifaceted relationship. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka
    RW making an effort to resolve crisis- Maithripala: Daily Mirror

    The Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) will support anyone who is committed to resolve the crisis which Sri Lanka is facing today, its Chairman Former President Maithripala Sirisena said yesterdayClick here to read…

    Chinese embassy seeks urgent meeting with Sri Lankan authorities; Report: Daily Mirror

    China’s embassy has sought an urgent meeting with senior Sri Lankan authorities after Colombo sought a deferment of the planned docking of a high-tech Chinese research vessel at the strategic Hambantota port over which India raised concerns, sources said. Click here to read…

    JVP: Both President and ruling party MPs must be sent home: The Island

    The Aragalaya protest must unite all its forces to pressure the Executive and the legislature, and the protesters should not shy away from that task, JVP trade union wing leader, KD Lalkantha, said, addressing a rally at the Ananda Samarakoon Open Air Theatre, in Nugegoda, on Saturday. Click here to read…

    China: Daily Scan, August 8, 2022

    China announces eight countermeasures in response to Pelosi’s Taiwan island visit: Global Times
    August 05, 2022

    China announces eight countermeasures in response to Pelosi’s Taiwan visit:

    1. Canceling China-US Theater Commanders Talk.
    2. Canceling China-US Defense Policy Coordination Talks (DPCT).
    3. Canceling China-US Military Maritime Consultative Agreement (MMCA) meetings.
    4. Suspending China-US cooperation on the repatriation of illegal immigrants.
    5. Suspending China-US cooperation on legal assistance in criminal matters.
    6. Suspending China-US cooperation against transnational crimes.
    7. Suspending China-US counternarcotics cooperation.
    8. Suspending China-US talks on climate change. Click here to read…

    China unveils bullet trains built for Indonesia: China Daily
    August 5, 2022

    Bullet trains tailored for the high-speed railway network linking the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, and the city of Bandung were unveiled on Friday in eastern China, marking an important milestone of the project and preparing for the line’s scheduled opening, China Railway International said. Click here to read…

    Chinese FM expounds on China’s position on Taiwan question: Xinhuanet
    August 6, 2022

    Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a press conference for Chinese and foreign media here on Friday afternoon after attending the meetings of foreign ministers on East Asia cooperation. Click here to read…

    Chinese, Russian FMs meet in Cambodia: Xinhuanet
    August 6, 2022

    Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met here on Friday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the latter’s request on the sidelines of meetings of foreign ministers on East Asia cooperation, with both sides agreeing to maintain strategic coordination and deepen practical cooperation. Click here to read…

    Chinese FM makes 3-point proposal to strengthen East Asia cooperation: Xinhuanet
    August 6, 2022

    Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday made a three-point proposal to enhance East Asia cooperation when attending the 12th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Click here to read…

    Chinese banks provide more loans to private businesses: Xinhuanet
    August 6, 2022

    China has increased lending support for the private sector, according to its top banking and insurance regulator. Outstanding loans to private enterprises by banking financial institutions stood at 58.2 trillion yuan (8.64 trillion U.S. dollars) at the end of June, up 11.4 percent from a year ago, according to the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission. Click here to read…

    National education mandatory in HK: China Daily
    August 6, 2022

    Hong Kong college students are expected to have a better understanding of national development as completing national education courses has become a requirement for graduation. Click here to read…

    Halt of China-US military talks shows nation’s resolve to safeguard core interest: China Daily
    August 7, 2022

    China’s unprecedentedly strong countermeasure of canceling Sino-US military talks has demonstrated the nation’s resolve to safeguard its core interest, which was seriously violated by United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, observers said. Click here to read…

    China’s first domestic oral anti-COVID-19 drug is priced at less than 300 yuan per bottle/35 tablets: Global Times
    August 7, 2022

    China’s first domestically developed oral drug for COVID-19 treatment has set its initial price at less than 300 yuan ($44.4) per bottle, as observers said the drug will help ensure more Chinese families access to COVID-19 treatment. Click here to read…

    PLA bomber formations cross Taiwan Straits from two directions in latest drills: Global Times
    August 7, 2022

    The last day of scheduled military exercises around Taiwan island by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Sunday featured island saturation attack drills and bomber deterrence flights in the Straits, a move experts said formed a powerful deterrence to “Taiwan independence” secessionists and external interference forces, greatly promoted the reunification process, and rehearsed a potential real operation. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka asks China to defer arrival of ship after India objects: Reuters
    August 7, 2022

    Sri Lanka has asked China to defer the planned visit of a Chinese survey ship to the island country after an objection from India, a government source told Reuters on Sunday. The Chinese research and survey vessel, Yuan Wang 5, was still on its way to Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port. It is scheduled to arrive there on Aug. 11, according to shipping data from Refinitiv. Click here to read…

    China names new senior security chief for Hong Kong: Reuters
    August 8, 2022

    The Chinese government named Sonny Au as the secretary-general of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s Committee for safeguarding the national security of the city, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Monday. Au replaces Eric Chan, Xinhua reported. Click here to read…

    Chinese mainland reports 324 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet
    August 8, 2022

    The Chinese mainland on Sunday reported 324 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, of which 259 were in Hainan Province, the National Health Commission said Monday. Altogether 483 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified on the day, said the commission in its report. Click here to read…

    China probes into accusations of coal price gouging: Xinhuanet
    August 8, 2022

    China’s State Administration for Market Regulation has conducted investigations on activities of bidding up coal prices, the administration said Friday.Three investigation teams have been sent to provincial-level regions of Shanxi, Inner Mongolia and Shaanxi, the country’s major coal-producing regions, to advance regulations on coal price gouging. Click here to read…

    PLA Eastern Theater Command continues joint exercises to test precision strike capabilities: China Military
    August 8, 2022

    The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) continued its joint combat training exercises as scheduled on Sunday in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan Island. Click here to read…

    VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 05, 2022

    Afghanistan
    Mujahid: Kabul Investigating Biden’s Claims on Killing Zawahiri: Tolo News

    The Islamic Emirate said that it was not aware of the al-Qaeda leader’s presence in Kabul or his trip to the city, responding to US President Joe Biden’s claims of killing Zawahiri. Click here to read…

    U.S. Proved Afghanistan Not Safe-Haven for Al-Qaeda: Kirby: The Khaama Press

    John Kirby, the NSC coordinator for strategic communications at the White House, said at a press conference Wednesday that Afghanistan is not a safe-haven for Al-Qaeda members, addressing the recent drone strike that killed the group’s leader Ayman al-Zawahri in Kabul. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh
    Trade, Connectivity, Tourism: Bangladesh, Nepal seek greater collaboration: Dhaka Tribune

    State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam has laid emphasis on greater collaboration with Nepal in sectors like hydroelectricity, tourism, connectivity, trade and people to people contacts. Click here to read…

    Out-of-box’ solution will bring economy back on course Says new BB governor: Daily Star

    In a time of elevated inflation, the interest rate is the handiest tool in the box to restore order. And yet, the new Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder, in his maiden press conference yesterday, remained defiant that it would not be used. Click here to read…

    Bhutan
    “Special concession” on export of wheat and sugar to Bhutan – KuenselOnline

    The Government of India (GoI) has given a special concession on the export of wheat and sugar to Bhutan. The Embassy of India in Thimphu has written a letter to the foreign affairs ministry on July 25, stating that “in view of friendly relations with Bhutan, the concerned authorities in India have made a special exception for Bhutan by permitting the export of 5,000 metric tonnes (MT) of wheat from India to Bhutan on the government to government request basis.” Click here to read…

    Arunachal: Governor emphasises strengthening relations with Bhutan – AP Direct

    “Both Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan have strong traditional and cultural links. There are great similarities in their social and cultural heritage,” Mishra said while interacting with Jigme Thinyle Namgyal, the Consul General of Bhutan in Guwahati, who called on the governor at Raj Bhavan here on Wednesday. Click here to read…

    Maldives
    India’s challenges in Maldives – Deccan Herald

    Maldives President Ibrahim Solih visited India earlier this week, with a high-level official and business delegation and met India’s top political leadership as well as business leaders in Delhi and Mumbai. Click here to read…

    MMPRC promotes Maldives in Germany – Raajje

    MMPRC shared that the corporation is collaborating with Dotcom Arabia to promote the Maldives in Germany. As such the promotion campaign will be held in August 2022. Click here to read…

    USAID grants USD 300,000 to Maldives – Raajjje

    The grant was awarded to Maldives under the USAID Maldives’, Climate Adaptation activity.

    USAID works in partnership with the people of Maldives to increase prosperity, promote inclusive economic growth, and enhance the resilience of the country’s resources to shocks and stresses using a variety of approaches, projects, and partners. Click here to read…

    Myanmar
    Long-awaited Rohingya report provides new evidence of genocide in Myanmar – Jurist

    The Commission for International Justice and Accountability (CIJA) released its long-awaited report Thursday on the Rohingya genocide in Myanmar. CIJA began its investigation in 2018, looking for evidence to clear a path toward international criminal prosecutions. CIJA has previously worked in Syria, gathering evidence on Bashar Al-Assad and ISClick here to read…

    Myanmar charges Japanese journalist with dissent against army – Al Jazeera

    A Japanese journalist detained in Myanmar has been charged with breaching immigration law and encouraging dissent against the army, the ruling military administration said. Click here to read…

    Arakan Army detains ALP executive committee member and Grade 8 student – BNI Online

    Lieutenant Colonel Khaing Paw Lin, an executive committee member of Arakan Liberation Party (ALP), and a Grade 8 student were taken from their home by members of the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA) in the Arakan State capital Sittwe on August 2, an ALP official said. Click here to read…

    More of the same – The Statesman

    UN experts and rights groups are more critical of government repression, which is marked by arbitrary arrests and killings, torture and military “sweeps” that include air attacks and burning down of entire villages. Click here to read…

    Nepal
    Nepal to go to polls in Nov as economic alarms ring – The News

    The Nepali government on Thursday set a general election date for November, as the landlocked Himalayan country faces growing economic pressure from falling tourism income and lower overseas remittances. Click here to read…

    NC leader Nidhi meets Indian Ministers Nitin Gadkari, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat – My Republica

    Former Vice President of Nepali Congress (NC) Bimalendra Nidhi has held a meeting with Indian Minister for Road Transport and Highways of India Nitin Gadkari in New DelhiClick here to read…

    Pakistan
    NAB bill passed amid PTI uproar: Dawn

    The opposition resorted to protests after Minister of State for Law and Justice Shahadat Awan moved a motion seeking suspension of rules to introduce the NAB amendment bill. Mr Awan’s request was opposed by the opposition on the grounds that the coalition government wanted to save its leadership by clipping NAB’s wings. The government, however, said the bill was being moved in the public interest. Click here to read…

    ‘Secret powers’ want to rig elections through ECP to control public: Imran: The Express Tribune

    Former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan has said that the ruling alliance after failing in its all attempts to control the “people of Pakistan” is now trying to steal the public mandate through the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), terming the electoral body a major hurdle in achieving “real freedom” through strong democracy. Click here to read…

    Govt agrees to deregulate oil prices: The Express Tribune

    The government has agreed to give a free hand to the oil industry to set petroleum product prices by implementing a deregulation mechanism under the new proposed oil policy effective November 1, 2022. Click here to read…

    PKR to Dollar: Rupee appreciates further: The News

    The Pakistani currency gained further ground Friday against the US dollar in the interbank market as the country slowly recovers from the currency crisis amid hopes of the revival of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) loan programme. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka
    Protesters move court against bid to remove them: The Island

    Several anti-government protesters at Gota Go Gama have filed four writ petitions at the Court of Appeal requesting the court to prevent the police from removing them from the Galle Face protest site. Earlier, the OIC at the Colombo Fort Police station issued written and oral orders. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka’s crisis an opportunity for more democratic, inclusive govt: Blinken: Daily Mirror

    Sri Lanka is in a moment of challenge and crisis but has an opportunity to create a more democratic and inclusive government, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said yesterday.Blinken made the remarks in Cambodia at the start of a meeting with his Sri Lankan counterpart Ali Sabry, who said his country appreciates the U.S. role in securing support from the International Monetary Fund. Click here to read…

    Countries must refrain from provocations – Ranil tells Chinese envoy: Daily Mirror

    While claiming that countries must refrain from provocations which further escalate the current global tension, President Ranil Wickremesinghe informed the Chinese Ambassador in Colombo that Sri Lanka is committed to one-China policy. Click here to read…

    VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 04, 2022

    Afghanistan
    Over 200 Afghan Media Outlets Shut Down in Past Year: Journalist Federation: Tolo News

    The Afghanistan Federation of Journalists and Media expressed concerns over the situation of media in Afghanistan and said that over 200 media outlets have ceased operations and 7,000 media workers have lost their jobs in the past year. Officials of the group noted that they had made suggestions to the international community and the Islamic Emirate about the protection of media workers, but the problem has not been solved. Click here to read…

    Hanafi Calls U.S. Drone Strike Violation of Doha Agreement: The Khaama Press

    Abdul Salam Hanafi, the second Deputy Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate, said the United States drone strike in Kabul violates both national sovereignty and the Doha Agreement, according to sources. On Monday night, President Biden administration announced an American drone strike killed Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahri at an urban safe house in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

    Taliban Settles Multi-Million Dollar Unpaid Debt to Uzbekistan for Electricity: The Khaama Press

    The Energy Ministry of Uzbekistan announced on Monday that Afghanistan has paid off its debt to Uzbekistan for the supply of electricity for the year 2021. Afghanistan has fully paid for the supply of energy in 2021 and is now making payments for the supply of electricity in 2022, according to the Uzbek Energy Ministry. Click here to read…

    Drowning in Debt; Afghanistan Owes $28 Million to Tajikistan: The Khaama Press

    Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS) of Afghanistan owes Tajikistan $28 million for electricity, said Mohammad Omar Asuzada, the head of the national electricity company of Tajikistan, Barqi Tojik. In a press conference on August 1, the Tajik energy official stated that transferring money from the DABS company to Barqi Tojik became challenging after the banks responsible for purchasing electricity came under sanctions. Click here to read…

    Bhutan
    Mishra emphasizes on strengthening relationship between Arunachal and Bhutan – Arunachal Times

    Governor B D Mishra has emphasized on strengthening the age-old relationships between Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan. “Both Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan have strong traditional cultural links and there are great similarities in their social and cultural heritage,” Governor said when Consul General of Bhutan, Royal Bhutanese Consulate General, Guwahati, Jigme Thinyle Namgyal called on him at Raj Bhavan here Wednesday. Click here to read…

    Plan to secure tigers of the rivers – Kuensel Online

    Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora), also known as Tigers of the Rivers, is an endangered fish species found in rivers of Southern and Eastern Bhutan. The fish is locally called sernya. Today, the fish faces threats from developmental activities, climate change and illegal fishing, among others. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh
    Foreign secretary: No discussion on new loan during Chinese FM’s visit: Dhaka Tribune

    Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen has said taking a new loan from China will not be a part of their agenda during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s upcoming Bangladesh visit. “This time, the issue of taking loan afresh isn’t there at least,” he said on Wednesday when a reporter wanted to know whether Bangladesh is going to take a loan from China again. Click here to read…

    Businesses for using multiple currencies: The Daily Star

    Bangladesh should cut its over-reliance on the US dollar and increase the use of other currencies such as the Chinese renminbi (RMB) in international trade to ease pressure in the foreign currency market, businesses saidClick here to read…

    Editorial: Petrobangla’s dangerous dependency on gas imports: The Daily Star

    Who gave Petrobangla the permission to spend Tk 2,000 crore from the Gas Development Fund (GDF) to import liquefied natural gas (LNG)? Certainly not the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), even though Petrobangla is legally bound to ask the commission before spending from the fund, which was set up in 2009 for gas exploration. While officials are fully aware that this fund is not for gas import, the money, apparently, was taken as a loan for emergency circumstances with the approval of the Finance Division. Click here to read…

    Maldives
    Maldives President Concludes India Visit – Foreign Brief

    The President of the Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih concludes a visit to India today. During the four-day official trip, Solih met with an Indian business delegation and held diplomatic talks with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed a number of issues around security and political cooperation. Click here to read…

    President attends the India-Maldives Business Forum in Mumbai – Raajje

    The India-Maldives Business Forum hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), brought together prominent business leaders from the Maldives and India to discuss promoting economic links between the two countries. Click here to read…

    India to supply Landing Assault Craft, 24 Utility Vehicles to bolster Maldives’ maritime security – News On Air

    Taking the time-tested India-Maldives defence & security partnership to a notch higher, India has announced the supply of a second Landing Assault Craft (LCA) and a replacement ship for earlier provided CGS Huravee to bolster the maritime apparatus of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). Click here to read…

    Myanmar
    Scandinavian governments condemn executions in Myanmar – ScandAsia

    Scandinavia stands united in its condemnation of the recent executions in Myanmar. On July 26, the embassies of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden in Myanmar all published strong language opposing the recent executions of four pro-democracy and opposition leaders in that country. This stands in line with the broader opposition to the use of the death penalty by the European Union. Click here to read…

    Asean Five-Point Consensus achieves little in Myanmar: Hun Sen – Asia News Network

    Prime Minister Hun Sen said the current situation in Myanmar is seemingly worse than it was before the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus (5PC) was reached in April last year, with the ongoing crisis exacerbated by the recent execution of four opposition activists. Click here to read…

    Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov visits Myanmar, backs junta’s efforts to ‘stabilise’ country – NE Now

    Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Myanmar on Wednesday for meetings with the country’s junta leaders. Russia backs the Myanmar junta’s efforts to ‘stabilise’ the crisis-wracked country, foreign minister Lavrov said during talks with Myanmar junta leadersClick here to read…

    Friends of Japanese journalist demand his release in Myanmar – ABC News

    Friends of Toru Kubota, a Japanese journalist detained in military-ruled Myanmar while covering a protest, called for his immediate release Wednesday and an online petition has collected more than 41,000 signatures. Click here to read…

    Two students killed, three others injured as the carrying boat was shot at in Paletwa – Narinjara

    A boat carrying a number of students was shot at in Nama Da creek of upper Kaladan river at around 2 pm on Tuesday, killing two students and injuring three others. The wounded, including two students and one school employee, were sent to Paletwa hospital in the evening hours. Click here to read…

    Nepal
    India set for Agnipath, worry in Nepal over Gorkha recruits – Indian Express

    On his first visit to Nepal as Prime Minister in 2014, Narendra Modi told Nepal Parliament that there was no war India had fought in which Nepali blood had not been sacrificed. Praising the contribution and bravery of Gorkha soldiers in Indian Army, Modi said, “I salute the bravehearts who laid their lives for India.” Click here to read…

    China using lending scam to destabilise India: Nepal police – Mid Day

    A Chinese national, who has emerged as the brain behind the loan app racket and is wanted by the Mumbai and Odisha police, was in Nepal on July 25. Liu Yi escaped from the country after the police busted an illegal call centre in Rupandehi district for extorting money from Indian borrowers. Sources in Nepal police said they are worried about the recent trend of illegal activities targeting Indians being run from their soil. Click here to read…

    116 Villages along Nepal border are now ‘Muslim majority’, madrasas and mosques mushrooming everywhere: Report – OpIndia

    Intelligence agencies have recommended increasing the range of Border Security Forces (BSF) to 100 KM, owning to the unexpected demographic change in the border areas. As per reports, the Muslim population in border areas has increased by approx 32 per cent, significantly above the national average. Click here to read…

    China says it appreciates Nepal’s longstanding commitment to ‘one China’ policy – In.Investing

    Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi said on Wednesday that his country highly appreciates Nepal’s longstanding commitment to the “one China” principle and resolute opposition to “Taiwan’s Independence”. Click here to read…

    Pakistan
    NAB won’t be able to probe graft cases below Rs500m: Dawn

    The National Assembly passed a bill on Wednesday that aims to further clip the wings of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) by proposing that all corruption cases involving an amount below Rs500 million would not come in its purview. Click here to read…

    PTI files reference with Supreme Judicial Council, seeks removal of CEC: Dawn

    A day after the announcement of the verdict by the Election Commission of Pakistan in the prohibited funding case, the Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf moved a reference before the Supreme Judicial Council against Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja on Wednesday. Click here to read…

    Pakistan spends $1b for rebuilding of war-hit Afghanistan: The Express Tribune

    Pakistan has contributed $1 billion to support the reconstruction of war-ravaged Afghanistan by building hospitals, schools and roads to manifest its commitment for a prosperous Afghanistan and falsify the impression of using the country as its proxy state. Click here to read…

    Rupee gains significant ground against USD, trades at Rs228.50 in interbank: The Express Tribune

    The Pakistani rupee made its first major recovery of around Rs10 to reach a one-week high of Rs228.50 against the US dollar in the inter-bank market on Wednesday. Click here to read…

    China rolls over $2bn loan for a year: The News

    China has rolled over $2 billion loan in safe deposits for cash-strapped Pakistan’s economy amid dwindling foreign exchange reserves, The News has learnt. Click here to read…

    Downpour in July shatters 61-year record in Pakistan: PMD: The News

    With 181% above average rainfall, July 2022 happened to be an excessive-rain month with 177.6mm of rain against its normal of 63.1mm making it the wettest July since 1961, said the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Wednesday. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka
    BASL calls IGP to immediately probe recent shooting incidents and dead bodies found on Galle Face beach: Daily Mirror

    The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has requested Inspector General of Police C.D. Wickramaratne to immediately conduct a fully-fledged investigation into the spate of shooting incidents and the dead bodies found on the Galle Face beach, the sources said yesterday. The BASL reportedly drew the attention of the IGP regarding the recent shooting incidents which have been reported from various parts of the country over several days, resulting in the deaths of several individuals. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka president thanks India for timely assistance: Times of India

    As he called for an all party government to deal with the economic crisis Sri Lanka is facing, President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Wednesday thanked PM Modi for providing the island nation “a breath of life” by lending timely economic assistance. “I wish to specially mention the assistance provided by India, our closest neighbour, in our efforts of economic revitalisation,” he said. Click here to read…

    Govt. formed by Ranil-Rajapaksa camp not an all-party arrangement – JVP: The Island

    Declaring that President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his maiden policy statement delivered in Parliament yesterday, hadn’t said anything new or offered any hope for the country, JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that an administration formed by Ranil-Rajapaksa camp couldn’t be considered an All-Party Government under any circumstances. Click here to read…

    VIF Neighbourhood News Digest: August 03, 2022

    Afghanistan
    Biden: Zawahiri ‘Mastermind Behind Attacks Against Americans’: Tolo News

    US President Joe Biden in a live address on Tuesday morning, Afghanistan time, announced the death of Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. In his speech, Biden said that Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in an American drone strike in Kabul. Click here to read…

    Afghan Refugees in Iran, Pakistan Call for UNHCR to Act: Tolo News

    Afghan refugees in Iran and Pakistan have once more voiced their concerns about the lack of progress being made in their applications for asylum. They said that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and Western nations’ agencies in Pakistan have not paid attention to their requests. Click here to read…

    Student Enrollment Plummets at Private Universities in Kunduz: Officials: Tolo News

    The Union of Private Universities in Kunduz Province said that the number of students attending private universities has dropped by 65 percent in recent months. Officials at these universities added that in seven private universities of Kunduz the total number of students was around 5,000, whereas under the previous government the number exceeded 11,000. Click here to read…

    Amount of Cash Aid to Afghanistan Surpasses $1 Billion 33 Million: The Khaama Press

    According to the Taliban-run Central Bank of Afghanistan, a cash package containing $40 million arrived in Kabul on Tuesday, August 2, as part of continuous humanitarian assistance from the international community. The aid shipment, which arrived in Kabul today, was placed at one of the commercial banks, while a shipment totaling $40 million was handed to a commercial bank in Kabul two days ago. Click here to read…

    Bangladesh
    Khalid welcomes US support for inland waterways management: Dhaka Tribune

    State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury, has expressed hope that the US investment and technology will improve the waterways management of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

    Minister: Madhukhali-Magura rail project to miss deadline: Dhaka Tribune

    The railway project from Madhukhali to Magura via the Kamarkhali Broad Gauge will not be completed within deadline, says Railway Minister Nurul Islam Sujan. Even though the deadline will be extended, the project cost will remain unchanged, he said on Tuesday. Click here to read…

    Wheat prices may cool off in local market: The Daily Star

    The price of wheat in Bangladesh may come down as its export from Ukraine has resumed following an agreement with Russia. Prior to the Russia-Ukraine war, 40 per cent of Bangladesh’s wheat import was made from the two countries. Click here to read…

    Trade with neighbours to soar come 2029: The Daily Star

    Bangladesh’s regional trade can increase by a staggering 93 percent thanks to the $1.4 billion project the World Bank has set in motion to accelerate trade and transport connectivity in Eastern South Asia — a development that can cushion the country from the anticipated export losses from LDC graduation. Click here to read…

    Bhutan
    Saving the majestic big cats – Bhutan Times

    The Bhutan Center for Tigers and Department of Forests and Parks Services (DoFPS) had proposed for community-based tiger conservation fund to mitigate human-wildlife conflict which is the biggest threat in protection and conservation of tigers in Bhutan. Click here to read…

    Concerns regarding loan repayment in the agricultural sector – Bhutan Times

    Loan recipients from the agriculture sectors are concerned about their loan repayments after the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan (RMA) released the terms of the fourth phase of monetary measures. A low-risk area, according to the RMA’s most recent risk assessment, is the agriculture sector. Click here to read…

    Maldives
    During Visit, Maldives President Reaffirms ‘India-First’ Policy – The Wire

    Maldives President Ibrahim Solih on Tuesday reaffirmed the island nation’s “India-first” policy during his visit to New Delhi, with both countries reassuring each other that they continued to remain mindful of the other’s security concerns. Click here to read…

    President Solih pays courtesy call on the President of India – Raajje

    President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has paid a courtesy call on the President of India Droupadi Murmu. The call took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, India on Tuesday evening. During the meeting President Solih congratulated President Murmu on her inauguration to office. Click here to read…

    President assures of conducive environment for foreign investments – Raajje

    The President made this remark while addressing the India-Maldives Business Forum in New Delhi, India, on Tuesday. Inviting Indian entrepreneurs to the Maldives to explore business prospects, the President assured them of his commitment to facilitate a conducive environment for foreign investments. Click here to read…

    India is highest priority, says Maldives President Solih after signing six agreements – the Hindu

    The Maldives on August 2 signed a cyber security agreement with India as both sides affirmed bilateral will to strengthen ties to take on “transnational crimes and terrorism” in the Indian Ocean region. Addressing the media after the signing of six agreements, President Ibrahim ‘Ibu’ Solih expressed gratitude to India for the help extended to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and for providing a landing craft and utility vehicles to the Maldives National Defence Force. Click here to read…

    Myanmar
    Myanmar: Detainees tortured to crush opposition to coup – Amnesty.org

    Authorities in Myanmar’s prisons and interrogation centres routinely subject people detained for resisting the 2021 military coup to torture and other cruel or degrading treatment, Amnesty International said today in a new briefing, more than a year and a half after the power grab shattered the country’s halting transition to civilian rule. Click here to read…

    Myanmar Military’s Proxy Party Involved in Pro-Execution Rallies – The Irrawaddy

    The Myanmar junta’s proxy Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) was involved in organizing pro-execution rallies held last week in Yangon and Mandalay. The rallies came as the executions of four pro-democracy activists in late July sparked condemnation around the world. Click here to read…

    Myanmar’s Unfulfilled Irenic Dream – The Irrawaddy

    Now, “Peace in our time” as in 1938, is more than unlikely: a slogan rather than a plan. A need for hope sustains a beleaguered population, but a constant call for hope defies reality. Would that it were possible to offer it, but illusions destroy policyClick here to read…

    Drugs smuggled from Myanmar seized in Assam, 3 held – Mangalorean

    Smuggling of drugs from Myanmar continues unabated in northeast India with drugs, valued at Rs 15 crore, being seized by Assam Police and three persons were arrested in this connection on Tuesday, officials said. Click here to read…

    Myanmar-China border town hit by bomb blast and shootings, killing 2 – SCMP

    A bomb blast and a spate of shootings in a Myanmar-China border town have killed two people and wounded at least nine, rescuers and locals said.
    No group has so far claimed the attacks in Muse – Myanmar’s main gateway to China – which is home to several militia groups jockeying for control over lucrative casinos and the drug trade. Click here to read…

    Myanmar’s junta using Chinese face recognition tech to eliminate opponents – Business Standard

    In order to expand its public surveillance capabilities, Myanmar’s military regime is using facial recognition technology, raising fresh concerns about the safety of democracy activists and resistance groups in Myanmar. Click here to read…

    Russia’s Lavrov to meet military leader on visit to Myanmar -TASS – Reuters

    Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will visit Myanmar on Wednesday, TASS news agency reported, marking one of the most high-profile visits to the Southeast Asian country since the military seized power in a coup last year. Click here to read…

    Nepal
    India-Nepal Ties Finally Easing Down, But Will the Momentum Last? – The Quint

    As a result of the recent political engagements between the prime ministers of Nepal and India, some gains are visible in the relations between the two countries, which, not very long ago, witnessed a strain in the combined aftermath of the map row, COVID-19 related problems and domestic politics in Nepal. Click here to read…

    A safer journey for vaccines – Relief Web

    Across Nepal, cold chain support provided by the Government of Japan through UNICEF is helping to ensure that vaccines – both for routine immunization of children and COVID-19 protection – reach communities safelyClick here to read…

    UN watchdog asks Nepal to split Civil Aviation Authority- Kathmandu Post

    United Nations aviation watchdog International Civil Aviation Organisation has formally asked Nepal to split the civil aviation body into two entities—service provider and regulator. The separation is a crucial organisational reform agenda which has been a work in progress for the last one and a half decades. Click here to read…

    Nepal Nearly Triples Its Wild Tiger Population in 13 Years – Yahoo

    According to a report recently released by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), there are almost three times as many tigers in Nepal today as there were in 2009. This good news follows the upward trend of other tiger populations — 2016 marked the first time in 100 years that the world population of tigers increased. Click here to read…

    Nepal doesn’t produce its 2 biggest export items – Nepal Times

    How is that possible when the country does not even produce these commodities? The reason is that Nepal’s private traders import soyabean and palm oil in bulk and re-export them to India exploiting tariff differentials. Click here to read…

    Pakistan
    After 22 months, exports tumble 24pc in July: Dawn

    The export proceeds fell 5.17 per cent to $2.21 billion in the first month of the current fiscal year from $2.34bn in the corresponding month last year, data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics showed on Tuesday. Click here to read…

    Govt leaders want Imran banned, disqualified over ECP ‘charge sheet’: Dawn

    Terming the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) verdict in the prohibited funding case of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) a “charge sheet” against the party, members of the ruling coalition claim it has proved ‘anti-Pakistan forces’ were behind establishment of the party, and labelled party chief Imran Khan everything from a liar, corrupt, foreign agent to a money launderer. Click here to read…

    IMF toughens stance on loan tranche release: The Express Tribune

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday conditioned the approval of the $1.2 billion loan tranche in late August with Pakistan’s ability to timely secure ‘adequate assurances’ from friendly countries for more loans to bridge financing gap, exposing Islamabad to demands by its bilateral creditors. Click here to read…

    Govt weighs knock-out punch: The Express Tribune

    The ECP’s ruling that the PTI did receive prohibited funding after an eight-year delay has come as a shot in the arm of the beleaguered ruling coalition that swung into action on Tuesday to find ways to knock out the Imran Khan-led party. Click here to read…

    Imran approves Punjab cabinet; no PMLQ member included: The News

    According to sources, the cabinet consists of PTI MPAs only, while the party chief also withdrew two ministries given to the PMLQ in former Chief Minister Usman Buzdar’s cabinet. Mian Mehmood-ur-Rashid is likely to get the Ministry of Local Government, Yasmin Rashid the Ministry of Health, Mian Muhammad Aslam Iqbal the Ministry of Housing and Works and Dr Murad Raas the Ministry of Federal Education. Click here to read…

    Sri Lanka
    UAE President Sheikh Mohamed makes phone call to Sri Lankan President: Daily Mirror

    UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has made a phone call to the President of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, congratulating him on his election as the country’s new president. Sheikh Mohamed also wished him success in leading Sri Lanka towards stability and peace and overcoming the circumstances it is going through. Click here to read…

    Immediate government assistance sought to avoid paralysis of tea exports: Daily Mirror

    The Sri Lanka Tea Board (SLTB) along with industry stakeholders seeks a well-coordinated and synergised mechanism from the government to resolve the fuel and agrochemical shortages threatening Sri Lanka’s tea production and industry sustainability. Click here to read…

    Bankrupt Sri Lanka seeks urgent help to feed children: Deccan Herald

    The Ministry for Women and Child Affairs said they were seeking private donations to feed possibly several hundred thousand children wasting due to insufficient food. The bankrupt state, grappling with Sri Lanka’s worst economic crisis. Click here to read…

    Foreign Minister to attend 29th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in Cambodia: News.Ik

    Minister of Foreign Affairs, M.U.M. Ali Sabry will travel to Phnom Penh, Cambodia to take part in the forthcoming 29th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting from 4 to 5 August, 2022. The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) is composed of 27 members, Click here to read…