Afghanistan

Karzai Calls Clerics’ Gathering ‘Symbolic’: Tolo News

Former President Hamid Karzai called the gathering of the Islamic clerics held in Kabul “symbolic,” saying that this was more a gathering of the “Taliban movement themselves.” Click here to read…

Unknown Disease Strikes 50 Children in Southern Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

The disease that has affected 50 children in the Siori region of the province of Zabul has cholera-like symptoms, according to the state-run Bakhtar news agency. A mobile medical team has reportedly been sent to the region to examine and attend to the sick children and prevent the spread of the unknown disease, according to Dr. Abdul Hakim Hakimi, the Taliban’s head of the public health department in Zabul province. Click here to read…

China Envoy in Kabul Says Humanitarian Aid is Priority: Tolo News

China says that the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is critical and noted that the United States has not released the frozen assets of Afghanistan. Wang Yu, China’s ambassador to Kabul, expressed concerns over the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan at an event which was held to hand over Chinese aid to needy people in Afghanistan, making remarks that held the US responsible for this situation. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Load shedding at specific times likely- The Daily Star

The government is considering reducing electricity production to save the fuel for producing power, said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday. Click here to read…

PM Hasina’s mango diplomacy: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif gets 1 metric tonne Amrapali- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sent 1000kg of famed Amrapali mango to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as gift in a gesture of goodwill. Click here to read…

Bangladesh Ambassador to Poland, Japanese Ambassador to receive ‘Bangabandhu Medal for Diplomatic Excellence’- The Daily Star

Bangladesh Ambassador to Poland, Sultana Laila Hossain, and Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ito Naoki, will receive the ‘Bangabandhu Medal for Diplomatic Excellence’ – for their significant contributions. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Ngawang Dramtoe lhops struggle to save maize- Kuensel

Lhops (Doyas) of Ngawang Dramtoe in Tading, Samtse are struggling to save their maize from wild animals. Click here to read…

Water flagship programme to address water shortage in Tangmachhu- Kuensel

Catering to Maenbi gewog, Tangmachu school and other government offices like the basic health unit and RNR office, Tangmachu town is growing. Click here to read…

Export restriction on potatoes from Bhutan to India lifted – Kuensel

The government of India (GoI) has given a one-year extension of exemption on the export of potatoes from Bhutan to India. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives to introduce an unemployment benefit scheme: Edition MV

Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer signed the agreement on behalf of the government while Country Director for Maldives Faris Hadd-Zavos signed the agreement on behalf of the World Bank. Click here to read…

Government announces measures to decrease expenditure, increase revenue: The Sun

The government, on Tuesday, has announced measures which will be taken to decrease state expenditure and increase state revenue in order to improve the fiscal situation of Maldives. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar’s SAC refuses to allow Sokhonn to meet Aung San Suu Kyi – Asia News Network

Foreign minister and ASEAN special envoy on Myanmar Prak Sokhonn was unable to meet with former civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi due to unspecified “judicial procedures” cited by the ruling State Administration Council (SAC). Click here to read…

Two Indians shot dead in Myanmar near border: Report – Hindustan Times

Two people of Tamil origin were shot dead in the Tamu area of Myanmar, bordering Manipur, on Tuesday, according to media reports in the neighbouring country that Indian authorities were trying to corroborateClick here to read…

Beijing wants instability in Myanmar: Southeast Asia expert Bertil Lintner – India Blooms

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Myanmar on Saturday to attend a regional conference that the opposition views as a “violation of peace efforts”. For his first visit since the military seized power in Myanmar ousting the elected government, Chinese FM Wang Yi will look to secure Beijing’s long-term interests. Click here to read…

Further clashes break out between resistance and junta forces in southern Shan, Karenni states – Myanmar Now

The anti-junta Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF) launched a lethal attack on a military vehicle southeast of Loikaw last week, causing multiple casualties, a spokesperson for the resistance group said. Click here to read…

A Toothless International Response to a Merciless Myanmar Regime – The Irrawaddy

The world sees Myanmar’s generals and their military as “a bunch of thugs”. The problem, however, is that it doesn’t treat them as thugs. In a recent interview with The Irrawaddy, US State Department Counselor Derek Chollet called the ruling military “a bunch of thugs” Click here to read…

Myanmar military’s proxy party convenes central assembly – Myanmar Now

The proxy party of Myanmar’s military convened its annual central committee meeting in Naypyitaw on Wednesday amid tight security and expectations of a shakeup of senior leaders. Click here to read…

Nepal

Govt to withdraw citizenship bill, pass new one- The Himalayan Times

The government today decided to withdraw the Citizenship Act (Amendment) Bill from the Parliament. It will register a new citizenship bill and seek its passage through a fasttrack process. Click here to read…

Malaysia’s Weston Company to hire Nepali workers on zero investment- The Himalayan Times

Malaysia-based Information Technology (IT) Company is all set to hire Nepali workers on zero investment. Click here to read…

Federal government overlooks statute as it wants to oversee Valley’s security- The Kathmandu Post

Nepali Congress and CPN-UML are in favour while the Maoists are against the proposed arrangement. Click here to read…

Gender-responsive budgeting: Good on paper, poor on implementation- The Kathmandu Post

In the absence of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, existing gender financing policies of Nepal have failed to yield desired results. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Parliamentary body to keep eye on talks with TTP: Dawn

The military on Tuesday secured the nod of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security’s for peace talks with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) after conceding to the Pakistan Peoples Party’s demand for the process to be overseen by a parliamentary committee. Click here to read…

Pakistan turns net importer of Afghan goods: Dawn

As Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan saw a deeper drop since the Taliban took control of Kabul in August 2021, the government on Tuesday took a major decision to allow trade of all products to Kabul in the rupee via land routes owing to the non-availability of tradable currency through banking channels. Click here to read…

Army budget trimmed to pave way for IMF deal: The Express Tribune

Pakistan has slashed the armed forces development programme by Rs72 billion or one-fifth of the allocation made on June 10 in order to meet a major condition of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) about achieving primary budget surplus in the new fiscal year. Click here to read…

Power subsidy dilemma: Govt reluctant to approve proposed hike in tariff: The News

Despite making a commitment with the IMF for raising the electricity tariff by Rs7.92 per unit, the federal cabinet has not yet approved the recent proposed increase of the power tariff by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) in a phase-wise manner. Click here to read…

Imran Khan warns of spilling beans if pushed to wall: The News

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan said Tuesday he would spill the beans if pushed to the wall, adding he was silent only for the sake of the country. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Bankrupt Sri Lanka’s inflation jumps beyond 50 percent: ABS-CBN News

Sri Lanka’s inflation hit a ninth consecutive record in June, official data showed Friday, rising to 54.6 percent a day after the IMF asked the bankrupt nation to rein in galloping prices and corruption. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka is ‘bankrupt,’ says PM Wickremesinghe: DW News

Sri Lanka is bankrupt and its unprecedented economic crisis is set to last until at least the end of next year, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe told lawmakers in parliament on TuesdayClick here to read…

India to Supply Fuel to Sri Lanka Only After Advance Payment: Bloomberg

India is seeking payment in advance for supply of fuel to Sri Lanka after credit lines were exhausted, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The larger South Asian neighbor stopped supplying gasoline and diesel on credit after the island nation ran out of dollars to purchase fuels amid its worst economic crisis. Click here to read…

UK reinstates warning against travel to Sri Lanka: BBC

A shortage of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel and food has sparked protests and violence in the Asian country. Sri Lanka’s government said it only had enough petrol to last one day as it faces its worst crisis in 70 years. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Taliban Grand Meeting Did Not Lead to Breakthrough: HRW: The Khaama Press

The Human Rights Watch (HRW), including a number of students and teachers, said their expectations from the recent national assembly of Afghan clerics were not met, according to sources, as there was no specific mention of girls’ education and their rights in the country. Click here to read…

I Want to See Girls Back to School: UNAMA Acting Head: The Khaama Press

The acting Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Ramiz Alakbarov said the promises made by the Islamic Emirate government are just words, according to sources, adding he wants the door for girls’ school to be re-opened. Click here to read…

Will request India to speed up return of Af students: Taliban: Times of India

The Taliban have said they will ask the Indian government to expedite return to India of Afghan students who want to resume their studies here. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Momen’s new book launched- The Daily Star

A new book authored by Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen was launched yesterday highlighting Bangladesh’s successes over the last 50 years and the potential to grow further. Click here to read…

Gas crunch brings back power cuts- The Daily Star

People have been enduring severe power cuts for the last few days as electricity production was hampered mainly due to a shortage of natural gas supply. Click here to read…

“Compared to food crisis in US, UK, we’re still in decent state”- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh today (July 4, 2022) said Bangladesh is in a good state compared to food crisis in the United States and United Kingdom. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Pvt Sector and Banks wrestle over Phase Four Monetary Measures as Govt tries to be a referee- Bhutan Today

The Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) recently announced the Phase Four Monetary Measures that offers loan deferments between one year to two years and eight types of loan restructuring depending on the risk category. Click here to read…

PHPA-I employees’ contract extended until July end-Kuensel

Contract has been extended for the employees of Punatshangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project Authority (PHPA-I) by another one month, until end of this month. Click here to read…

Bhutanese have a strong bond with WFP- Kuensel

With the education ministry, but also in collaboration with agriculture and health ministries, we are rolling out a digital platform called School Meal Planner (SMP) PLUS, which allows us to design nutritious menus based on a digital database of 3,500 types of food. Click here to read…

Govt allows imports of potatoes from Bhutan till June 2023- Mint

The Indian government on Tuesday allowed the import of fresh and chilled potatoes from Bhutan without any license up to June 2023. According to a notification by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), import of potatoes from Bhutan is permitted freely without any license up to June 30″.Click here to read…

Maldives

Finance Ministry sign $10 million grant with World Bank: The Sun

The Finance Ministry detailed that the project – Sustainable and Integrated Labor Services (SAILS) was aimed at supporting Maldives in promoting competition in the broadband market with the grant. Click here to read…

Prince Faisal bin Salman receives Maldives president in Madinah: Arab News

President of the Republic of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in Madinah on Monday to visit the Prophet’s Mosque. The president was received by Madinah Gov. Prince Faisal bin Salman and a number of officials at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Growing insecurity in Rohingya Refugee Camps: A Threat to South Asian Security? – Modern Diplomacy

The increasing rate of trans-border crime in those bordering camps is not only making the Rohingya refugees vulnerable and prone to crimes but also threatening South Asian security as a whole. The Rohingya community leader’s speech of “We don’t want to stay in the camps. It’s hell.” in the ‘Go Home’ campaign in 20th June, 2022, made us rethink about the security situation in the campsClick here to read…

Myanmar hosts 1st regional meeting since army takeover – ABC News

Myanmar’s military government on Monday hosted its first high-level regional meeting since the army took power last year, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and counterparts from Mekong Delta nations attending. Click here to read…

Junta’s imprisonment of two Sittwe men under controversial law draws criticism – BNI Online

U Maung Aye, 53, and U Hla Thein Aung, 46, both the residents of Danyawaddy ward, were detained by junta soldiers on June 24 as the regime searched wards and detained residents after the Arakan Army (AA) abducted two junta soldiers in the state capital the previous day.
Click here to read…

Nepal

NOC hikes price of petroleum products- Himalaya

Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has increased the price of petroleum products effective from tonight. Click here to read…

Newly appointed ministers take oath of office- Himalaya

President Bidya Devi Bhandari today administered oath of office and secrecy to newly appointed ministers in Kathmandu. Click here to read…

Newly appointed tourism minister Shrestha pledges full support to solve problems in mountaineering sector- Himalaya

Newly appointed Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Jeevan Ram Shrestha pledged his full support to resolve different challenges in the mountaineering sector during a meeting with a delegation of Everest Summiteers Association led by President Maya Sherpa, at his office on Sunday. Click here to read…

Move to lower eligibility age for elderly allowance to cost over Rs15 billion- Kathmandu Post

Government expenditure for social security allowances to nearly double in two years. Click here to read…

Calls are growing for Finance Minister Sharma to quit, as he fails to come clean- Kathmandu Post

Prime minister’s reluctance to take action raises suspicion if there are too many skeletons in the closet. Click here to read…

Issue of school textbook shortage raised in National Assembly session- Republica

The National Assembly, the Upper House of the Federal Parliament, has unanimously approved its decision to send the ‘COVID-19 Crisis Management Bill, 2078 BS’ to the Legislation Management Committee for clause-wise deliberations on it. Click here to read…

Tribhuvan University hostels: While many buildings are unlivable, the livable ones are captured by non-students- Online Khabar

Problems have always plagued Tribhuvan University (TU), Nepal’s oldest university. It has problems with its policy, infrastructure, management, course and the list goes long. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Cabinet approves second NAB amendment bill in span of a month: Dawn

The federal cabinet on Monday passed the National Accountability (Third Amendment) Bill, 2022, with fresh legislation aiming to restrict the watchdog’s role in corruption cases of over Rs500 million and taking away the president’s authority to appoint accountability court judges. Click here to read…

Editorial: LNG emergency: Dawn

PAKISTAN is looking to buy a lot of LNG amid ongoing countrywide blackouts. The government has just released one of its biggest LNG purchase tenders ever to procure 10 cargoes for delivery through September. Click here to read…

Spymaster directs intelligence officers to stay away from political activities: The Express Tribune

The country’s spymaster has issued strict orders to his commanders from top to the lowest tier and other officials to stay away from any activity involving politics and politicians following policy directives from the chief of army staff. Click here to read…

Foreign plot: Maryam says Imran staged ‘biggest drama’ in Pakistan’s history: The Express Tribune

Lashing out at former prime minister Imran Khan for “ignoring Punjab” — Pakistan’s most populous province with 120 million people — PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz on Monday said that the ex-PM staged “the biggest drama in the history of Pakistan under the name of foreign conspiracy”.Click here to read…

Trade deficit goes up by massive 55.29pc: The News

The country’s trade deficit ballooned by 55.29 percent in the financial year ended June 30, 2022 on the back of surging imports, especially of petroleum and groups. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka extends school closures: Arab News

Schools across Sri Lanka will close for one week starting Monday, the Education Ministry has announced, as the island nation grapples with its worst economic crisis since gaining independence in 1948. Click here to read…

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka offers fuel quotas to firms which can pay in dollars: Business Standard

Potential purchasers must pay as much as a month in advance to open a consumer account at state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corp., Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera tweeted on Sunday. Fuel will be issued on a daily or weekly basis from July 12, according to the minister. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka limits fuel to essential services with supplies set to run out in days: The Guardian

Sri Lanka’s energy minister has said the country’s fuel supplies will run out in a few days, forcing nationwide school closures and prolonged power cuts, as the worst economic crisis in its history continues. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka central bank guidance peg falls 24 cents: Economy Next

A guidance peg announced by Sri Lanka’s central bank for interbank transactions dropped 24 cents to 359.79 against the US dollar on July 04 from the previous day’s 359.55, banks’ data showed. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Critical Concerns Not Addressed at Clerics’ Gathering: Citizens: Tolo News

Some Afghan citizens said that the essential problems faced by the people of Afghanistan were not addressed in the resolutions issued by the major gathering of the Islamic clerics. A three-day gathering of Islamic clerics was held from Thursday to Saturday, concluding with a resolution of 11 principles. Click here to read…

Islamic Clerics’ Gathering Issues 11-Point Resolution: Tolo News

The participants of the clerics’ gathering held at the Kabul Loya Jirga Hall released a resolution comprised of 11 principles, in which they called on the world to lift sanctions on Afghanistan and to recognize the Islamic EmirateClick here to read…

Different Narratives of One Event; Taliban Embassy in Pakistan Says the Man Killed at Torkham Was an Afghan National: The Khaama Press

The elderly man who attempted to cross the Torkham border on July 2 but was barred from doing so by Pakistani forces, and afterwards killed himself by running himself under a car, was an Afghan national, according to officials of the Taliban administration’s embassy in Pakistan. Click here to read…

The EU Provides an Additional €40 Million for Child Protection and Polio Vaccination in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

According to a statement made by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Sunday, the European Union provides an additional €25 million for polio vaccines and €15 million for child protection in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

China wants to build Dhaka-Ctg expressway- The Daily Star

China has proposed to build the Dhaka-Chattogram Expressway under a government-to-government-Public Private Partnership (G2G-PPP) framework, bringing the project cancelled last year back into focus. Click here to read…

Present evidence-based arguments: Japanese ambassador to TIB- The Daily Star

Japan ambassador to Bangladesh Ito Naoki urged Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) to publish reports with evidence-based arguments. Click here to read…

Labour rights situation: Bangladesh listed among 10 worst countries- The Daily Star

Bangladesh is one of the world’s 10 worst countries for workers, according to the Global Rights Index 2022 of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). Click here to read…

Bhutan

Inward remittance scheme incentives hiked to 2 percent- Kuensel

The Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) extended the incentive scheme for inward remittance for Bhutanese who live, work or study overseas for another six months beginning yesterday. Click here to read…

Members can’t be casual in Parliament: Speaker- Kuensel

Amid serious discussions, it is the viral remarks and statements of ministers and MPs in Parliament that have caught widespread attention. Click here to read…

(Editorial) A national priority- Kuensel

The Royal Bhutan Police is apprehending traffickers or smugglers of the so-called contraband substances or “drugs”. Both the frequency and the quantity is alarming and worrying at the same time. Click here to read…

Highest irregularities observed in PHPA-I: AAR 2020-21- Bhutan Today

Among the six hydropower projects in the country, Punatsangchhu Hydroelectric Project Authority (PHPA-I) had the highest irregularities in the annual audit report (AAR) 2020-21 with a reported amount of Nu 1,920.237 million (M). Click here to read…

India’s Israel envoy accredited to Bhutan- The Tribune

Bhutan, which is extremely selective about establishing diplomatic relations, accepted the credentials of Israeli Ambassador to India Naor Gilon. Click here to read…

HH Je Khenpo appoints Kilkhor Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang- BBS

His Holiness the Je Khenpo conferred Tashi Lekdhar to appoint Kilkhor Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang at the Tashichhodzong today. Lopen Dorji Wangdi from Rukubji in Wangdue Phodrang is the new Kilkhor Lopen. Click here to read…

Maldives

MMA launches currency symbol for Maldivian Rufiyaa: The Sun

The symbol, which introduces an additional horizontal stroke to the Dhivehi letter “Raa”, was unveiled by Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, Aminath Shauna in a special ceremony at the MMA headquarters on Sunday. Click here to read…

Maldives New ‘Evidence’ Law Undermines Media Freedom: Human Right Watch

In a serious setback for media freedom, the Maldives parliament today enacted legislation allowing courts to force journalists and media outlets to reveal their sources. Click here to read…

Myanmar

China’s top diplomat makes first trip to Myanmar since coup –

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has arrived in Myanmar on his first visit to the country since the military seized power in a coup last year. Click here to read…

Myanmar Regime Sorry for Junta Jet Intrusion into Thai Airspace – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar air force chief General Htun Aung has apologised to his Thai counterpart after a Myanmar military fighter jet intruded into Thai airspace on Thursday, just a day after coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing met a Thai army general to discuss stability and anti-terrorism in areas along the Myanmar-Thailand frontierClick here to read…

Junta Watch: Military Bends Rules to Fill Ranks; Loyal Monk Promoted, and More – The Irrawaddy

Over the past year, Myanmar people have developed a deep loathing for the country’s military thanks to its terrible atrocities against civilians. The number of young people opting to join the junta’s institutes has consequently plunged, forcing the army to loosen age limits in order to lure fresh recruits. Click here to read…

Local seriously injured in army-planted landmine explosion – Narinjara

A cowherd was seriously injured on Friday when he stepped on a landmine, planted by the junta forces nearby LIB 375 battalion based in Kyauktaw locality of Rakhine State. The injured individual is identified as U Than Sein Maung (45 years old) hailing from Wet Hmaing village under Kyauktaw township. Click here to read…

Nepal

Dahal proposes a new front of ‘socialists’ but offers little clarity- Kathmandu Post

In what comes as a surprise to many, the Maoist Centre chair holds a meeting of members of the Secretariat of the invalidated NCP—without those from the UML. Click here to read…

Complications galore as there’s more to Rana impeachment than meets the eye- Kathmandu Post

Questions remain what happens if House expires before his retirement. Some experts argue he can return to office. Click here to read…

Covid resurgence and cholera outbreak pose ‘increasing challenge’ to public health- Kathmandu Post

Focus on curative methods instead of preventive methods makes problems perennial, experts say. Click here to read…

Taking a ‘corrupt judiciary’ by its horns- Himalayan Times

Lawyers say structural reforms are needed to address the problem of corruption in the judiciary.
Click here to read…

Over 200,000 foreign tourists visit Nepal in six months- Himalayan Times

As many as 237,813 foreign tourists have visited Nepal in the last six months. Click here to read…

Nepal yet to inform the US of its withdrawal from the State Partnership Program- Online Khabar

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the government of Nepal is yet to inform the United States government that it has decided to withdraw from the controversial State Partnership Program (SPP). Click here to read…

Pakistan

PM Shehbaz orders early resolution of energy crisis: Dawn

Taking action over increasing public complaints about loadshedding across the country, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday ordered an early resumption of power generation from the plants closed due to various administrative and technical issues. Click here to read…

Pakistan seeks Qatar gas on deferred payment: Dawn

Amid severe energy crunch and unprecedentedly expensive fuel imports, Pakistan is seeking more gas imports on deferred payments from Qatar, which is irritated by roadblocks to its infrastructure investment plans, particularly in import terminals. Click here to read…

PML-N rifts deepen over Miftah’s future: The Express Tribune

Finance Minister Miftah Ismail has found unequivocal support from party stalwarts at a time when he has been facing criticism from within the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) amid speculations of ex-financial czar Ishaq Dar’s return to Pakistan to replace him. Click here to read…

Army chief’s fresh directions: The News

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa has issued fresh directions to all his commanders and key officers, including those associated with the ISI, to stay away from politics and avoid interacting with politicians. Click here to read…

Only way out of crisis is holding polls: Imran: The News

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan Sunday again said it was his clear message to the imported government and its backers that the only way out of descending into total chaos was to hold free and fair elections immediately. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has less than a day’s worth of fuel left: Times of India

Sri Lanka has less than a day’s worth of fuel left, the energy minister said on Sunday, even as the cash-strapped nation extended school closures for one week because there isn’t enough fuel for teachers and parents to get kids to classrooms. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka keeps schools shut amid fuel crisis: Hindustan Times

Sri Lanka extended school closures for one more week starting July 4 amid unprecedented fuel crisis, the education ministry announced on Sunday. The government and state-approved private schools will remain closed for a week as there’s not enough fuel for teachers and parents to get children to classrooms. Click here to read…

Cardinal appeals to Pope to solicit aid for Sri Lanka: Asia News Network

Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith says that the need of the hour is the initiation of a high profile investigation to find out how this country was dragged down to its present plight of being a beggar nation, fix responsibility for these crimes and find ways to recover the money stolen from the people. Click here to read…

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Reframing India-Africa Relations in Post-pandemic World

Africa has always been a foreign policy priority for India. However, the new Government under PM Narendra Modi has displayed unprecedented eagerness to deepen its age-old relationship with the African continent. Click here to read…

Why Is There So Much Turmoil in Eastern Congo?

More than 120 militia groups are wreaking terror in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which now accuses neighboring Rwanda of backing one particularly violent group. Click here to read…

NEWS

Kenya elections: Ruto, man of the people, vs Odinga, king-in-waiting

Can five times Presidential candidate Raila Odinga defeat William Ruto, the champion of Kenya’s “hustler nation”, in the country’s 9 August election? Click here to read…

Angola Election 2022: ‘Dirty tricks’ as election nears

Barely two months before the Angolan elections, the opposition has criticized the ruling MPLA party for seeking to weaken it with the help of the secret services. Click here to read…

Mali’s transition govt sets February 2024 for presidential election

The Malian government has adopted an electoral calendar for the transition three days before a summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which is due to consider the tough sanctions imposed on the junta in January. Click here to read…

West African states Gabon and Togo join Commonwealth

Gabon and Togo joined the Commonwealth on Saturday, becoming the latest nations with no historic ties to Britain to enter the English-speaking club headed by Queen Elizabeth II. Click here to read…

UN urges Libya’s rivals to agree on elections this week

The U.N. political chief urged Libya’s rival factions on Monday to agree on measures governing the transition to elections, Click here to read…

Drought, Famine-Like Conditions Mar Somalia’s 62nd Birthday

Somalis across the world marked 62 years of independence Friday with little jubilation and much concern about a future blackened by drought, food shortages, and inflation. Click here to read…

Tunisia’s draft constitution – what’s new, and why now?

Tunisia has published a draft constitution that would further expand the president’s powers and limit the role of the parliament, raising fears of the prospect of one-man rule in the country. Click here to read…

Ethiopian Government and TPLF Wrangle Over Peace Talks Mediation

Ethiopia’s ruling party said this week it wants the African Union, partnering with the United States, to mediate any peace talks to end the war with Tigrayan forces. Click here to read…

Sudan security forces skirmish with demonstrators after protest deaths

Sudanese security forces fired tear gas at protesters on Friday near the presidential palace in Khartoum, a day after nine people were reported killed during the largest anti-military rallies for months. Click here to read…

African Union urges calm in Ethiopia-Sudan border dispute

The African Union says it is deeply concerned by “the escalating military tension” between Ethiopia and Sudan after seven Sudanese soldiers and a civilian were killed in a border dispute. Click here to read…

MONUSCO calls on Rwanda, DR Congo to calm tensions fueling security crisis

The head of MONUSCO, the United Nations mission in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has appealed to both Rwanda and the DR Congo to calm tensions, Click here to read…

UN keeps peacekeepers in Mali as Russia and China abstain

The U.N. Security Council voted Wednesday to maintain the U.N. peacekeeping mission in turmoil-wracked Mali. Click here to read…

China’s pivotal role under scrutiny as Zambia seeks debt relief

Within months of his election last year, Zambia’s president Hakainde Hichilema had succeeded in negotiating a $1.4bn IMF bailout for the debt-stricken southern African country. Click here to read…

Nigerian governor lets residents carry guns for self-defense

A Nigerian governor has ordered the issuing of licenses so citizens can carry guns to defend themselves against armed groups, a first among the measures drawn up to defeat gunmen blamed for the deaths of thousands in the West African country’s troubled northern region. Click here to read…

Maasai plight in Tanzania shows ‘colonial’ roots of conservation

Violence broke out between protesters and security forces in Tanzania in recent weeks as the government moved in to implement a controversial plan for a game reserve. Click here to read…

More than 20 Migrants Die in Effort to Enter Spanish Enclave in Africa

The deaths occurred during an attempted mass crossing by 2,000 people over border fences into Melilla. Several human rights groups have called for an investigation. Click here to read…

Cameroon’s separatists suspected of rural attack killing 30

Suspected separatist rebels in western Cameroon attacked rural villages, killing at least 30 people, say health workers in the Akwaya district. Click here to read…

Polish citizen kidnapped in eastern province of Burkina Faso freed

The Ministry of Defense was able to free a hostage of Polish origin who was kidnapped on the Matiakoali-Kantchari (east) road on April 27, 2022 (…) while on his way to Niger,” Kaboré said at the end of the council of ministersClick here to read…

Egypt makes largest wheat purchase in 10 years as food insecurity increases

According to Bloomberg, the country’s grain buyer, the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC), bought 815,000 tonnes of wheat yesterday, taking advantage of a recent price slump. Click here to read…

Angolan President Vows Big Infrastructure Projects Ahead of Vote

Angolan President Joao Lourenco has pledged to erect big infrastructure projects, including multi-billion dollar solar parks, if he gets re-elected at the helm of Africa’s second-biggest oil producer. Click here to read…

Ghana to make U-turn and ask IMF for help for its economy

Until now, Ghana had refused to seek IMF support to rescue an economy crippled by the pandemic, rampant inflation and a depreciating currency. Click here to read…

Nigeria gets new chief justice amid ‘all-time’ low judicial trust

Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has sworn in a new acting chief justice, barely hours after the resignation of the previous one. Click here to read…

Mozambique: Thousands flee violence in Cabo Delgado

Hundreds of families have been displaced as Islamist insurgents step up attacks on villages in northern Mozambique. DW correspondent Adrian Kriesch visited the Cabo Delgado region and spoke to civilians fleeing the ongoing violence. Click here to read…

DRC buries murdered independence hero Lumumba’s remains

The family of Democratic Republic of Congo’s murdered independence hero Patrice Lumumba has buried his only known remains, a tooth, in the capital Kinshasa, 61 years after his death at the hands of Belgian-backed secessionist rebels. Click here to read…

De Beers, Botswana extend diamond sales deal by a year

De Beers Group said on Wednesday that it had agreed with the government of Botswana to extend by one year an agreement for the sale of rough diamonds from their joint venture, Debswana. Click here to read…

Russia’s Wagner group in Mali spurs refugee spike in Mauritania

Malians are fleeing to nearby Mauritania to escape from bandits, fighters, the army and now Russian operatives. Click here to read…

Why Rwanda doesn’t celebrate Independence Day

On July 1, Rwanda marks 60 years of independence from Belgium. Unlike other African countries that celebrate with pomp and festivities, Independence Day in Rwanda is a somewhat muted affair. Click here to read…

Burundi celebrates 60 years of independence in Bujumbura

Burundi celebrated the 60th anniversary of its independence in Bujumbura with a military parade and guests of honor from around the world. Click here to read…

Independent Algeria turns 60, but colonial-era wounds remain

Algeria marks 60 years of independence from France on Tuesday, but rival narratives over atrocities committed during more than a century of colonial rule still trigger bitter diplomatic tensions. Click here to read…

Four goals for Africa at Japan’s TICAD8 in Tunis

“Africa, a shining continent full of dynamic growth, is no longer a recipient of ‘aid’,” former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe said in a 2014 speech from Addis Ababa. Click here to read…

Germany hands over two Benin bronzes to Nigeria

Germany has physically handed over two Benin bronzes and put more than 1,000 other items from its museums’ collections into Nigeria’s ownership. Click here to read…

70-yr British colonial rule left Botswana in a humiliating position: Prez

In remembrance of Sir Seretse Khama, the founding President of Botswana, President Mokgweetsi Masisi has urged the southern African nation to cherish the values of unity, freedom and peace that he strived and stood for. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

President of India greets Madagascar on its 62nd Independence Day

On the occasion of Madagascar’s 62nd Independence Day, the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind greeted President Andry Nirina Rajoelina on Tuesday. Click here to read…

Ethiopia to Rwanda, Senegal to Mozambique — India deepens its commitment to African continent

India’s diplomatic outreach to Africa continues with the ongoing visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to Rwanda for the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Click here to read…

India plans to build HAL Tejas fighter jet manufacturing line in Egypt

Besides offering Tejas Mk1A to Egypt, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has also introduced its range of indigenous helicopters such as the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Light Combat Helicopters (LCH). Click here to read…

India and Egypt work towards building strategic relationship with focus on defence & security

From holding joint military exercises to exporting wheat as Russia and Ukraine stop supplies, New Delhi and Cairo are redrawing their relationship as geopolitical tensions rise. Click here to read…

India Lesotho Business Council launched

India Lesotho Business Council has been launched by the Indian Economic Trade Organization and the High Commission of Lesotho to accelerate the trade relationships between both countries. Click here to read…

Mauritius regulator clarifies cap gains booked by PEs in India won’t be taxed

MRA clarified that any income which is distributed by a foreign “fiscally transparent entity” will retain its initial character in Mauritius. Thus, capital gains booked by a PE Fund in India, where a Mauritius vehicle has invested, will remain capital gains when funds are distributed by the PE to the Mauritius entity. Click here to read…

Renowned Entrepreneur & Producer Krishna Pimple To Boost Indian & Tanzania’s Relationship With Music

Known for producing films like Abhi Abhi, Choukat, Gharat, Krishna Pimple entered the film industry with ISIS: Enemies of Humanity. He is now gearing up for the release of as many as 11 upcoming short films and movies which include names like ‘Kashmir: The Final Resolution’. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Meeting in Kabul of Clerics from Across Afghanistan Begins: Tolo News

The anticipated gathering of clerics from across Afghanistan was held in Kabul on Thursday to discuss the current Afghan situation. It was attended by Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund and other top members of the Islamic Emirate as well as thousands of clerics from across the country. Click here to read…

India Delivers a Consignment of 6 Tons Medical Assistance to Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

As part of its continuous humanitarian support, India delivered the seventh consignment of medical aid to Afghanistan today, containing 6 tons of essential medicines, according to an official statement of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, released on 30th JuneClick here to read…

The Taliban’s Religious Gathering Emphasizes on Beheading Critics: The Khaama Press

Mawlawi Mujib Rahman Ansari, a vigilante, bearded clergyman, a preacher in a mosque in northwestern Afghanistan’s Herat province, who is also an attendee of the Taliban’s religious grand assembly has stated in the gathering that anyone who rebels against the Islamic regime should be beheaded. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Energy Treaty – Bangladesh should not sign it: CAB- The Daily Star

Bangladesh should not sign the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), as the international agreement only serves the purposes of international businesses in the energy sector, not the country’s national interest, said Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) at a dialogue with journalists yesterday. Click here to read…

Yunus Centre tries to hide the truth: Hasan- The Daily Star

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today denounced the Yunus Centre’s statement that denied Dr Muhammad Yunus’s alleged role to scrap World Bank’s financing in Padma Bridge construction as evil attempts to hide the truth. Click here to read…

Birth certificates for street children: High Court issues rule- The Daily Star

The High Court today (June 30, 2022) directed the government to submit a report on the steps taken to issue birth certificates to all street children across the country in three months before this court. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan set to raise SDF to 200 USD- The Daily Bhutan

On the 24th of June 2022, the National assembly passed the Tourism Levy Bill of 2022. With this new act the sustainable development fee (SDF) of 65 USD per night has now been increased to 200 USD per night. Along with the increase in the SDF the minimum daily package rate (MDPR) has been removed as well. Click here to read…

Government outs Sung-jeon App from 12th FYP- Bhutan Today

With overwhelming priorities in the 12th Five-Year-Plan, the government is not in a position to implement one of its election pledges, the Sung-jeon App. Click here to read…

DHI projects to earn foreign currency- Bhutan Today

Druk Holding and Investments (DHI) is working on two to three major projects according to Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering. He said that the earnings from those projects are expected to generate foreign currency. Click here to read…

Water shortage hampers service delivery in Tsirangtoed- The Kuensel

Due to its strategic location, Tsirangtoed gewog serves as a centre for residents of neighbouring gewogs to avail health and education services. Click here to read…

Maldives

Imports to Maldives increase to 52 percent in May 2022: Edition Mv

According to the latest update from Maldives Customs Service, the total imports inclusive of fuel rose to 52 percent in May 2022. The total imports to the country in the review month was recorded at MVR4.4 billionClick here to read…

In the future as well, Maldives will mainly depend on India: The Sun

Speaking in the fifth episode of ‘Ask Speaker’ show on Thursday night, Nasheed said that India is the country that has been most helpful to Maldives in the past and in present. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar fighter jet crosses into Thailand’s air space in Tak: Bangkok Post

A Myanmar fighter jet crossed into Thailand’s air space over Phop Phra district late on Thursday morning, panicking local residents and forcing two local schools to suspend classes. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Using Massive Airstrikes to Defend Strategic Outpost: The Irrawady

Myanmar’s military regime is employing massive airstrikes against resistance forces attempting to seize a strategic junta outpost in Karen State near the border with Thailand. Click here to read…

Nepal

90 settlements in Salyan at risk of landslides, forest department says- The Kathmandu Post

Risk aggravated by haphazard road construction, claims Disaster Management Committee chiefClick here to read…

Despite six-decade history, parliamentary practice remains weak in Nepal- The Kathmandu Post

Experts say that in countries where political parties aren’t democratic, the parliamentary practice cannot be effective. Click here to read…

Power utility calls off bid to sell 200MW to India under long-term contract- The Kathmandu Post

Citing complications in bidding, Nepal Electricity Authority now aims to trade power in the day-ahead market of Indian Energy Exchange Limited. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Chasing simple majority in PA session without PTI, ‘Q’: Dawn

The Punjab Assembly’s marathon 40th session, that saw the controversial election for the chief minister on April 16, would resume its proceedings on Friday afternoon (today) for a do-over of the election of the chief executive, sending both treasury and opposition parties into late night huddles to devise their strategies for the ‘big day’. Click here to read…

Govt jacks up petrol price by Rs14.85 per litre: Dawn

The federal government on Thursday announced another hike in the prices of all petroleum products – especially petrol by Rs14.85 per litre and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs13.23 per litre, with the change set to take effect from midnight. Click here to read…

Pakistan dumping ground for global hazardous waste, Senate body told: Dawn

Pakistan is importing massive amounts of hazardous waste from several countries, including the United Kingdom, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, a parliamentary committee was informed on Thursday. Click here to read…

CPEC’s Karot Hydropower Plant put into ‘full commercial operation’: The Express Tribune

Karot Hydropower Plant, the first hydropower investment project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), was put into full commercial operations on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Rupee falls 30pc against dollar in FY22: The News

The rupee posted slight gains against the dollar in last trading session of the 2021/22 fiscal year, pushed by routine import payments and greenback sales by exporters, dealers said. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

IMF end-of-mission report highlights ‘corruption vulnerabilities’ in Sri Lanka: The Island

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) personnel that remained in Sri Lanka for ten days from 20-30 June to study the exact reasons for the current economic crisis in the country and design a comprehensive economic programme have stressed the need to reduce ‘corruption vulnerabilities’ in Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Indian fishermen back again and ‘crushing’ our livelihoods, say Sri Lankan counterparts: The Hindu

Just after Tamil Nadu’s annual fishing ban ended mid-June, Indian fishing trawlers are back near Sri Lanka’s northern coast, “crushing” fishermen’s livelihoods that are already under enormous strain during the island’s economic crisis, according to northern Sri Lankan fisher leaders. Click here to read…

India made a recommendation for Adani Green: Sri Lankan power board: Business-Standard

The Ceylon Electricity Board, in a clarification to a Sri Lankan business daily, has said that the Indian government recommended Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) for constructing wind power projects in the Mannar and Pooneryn regions of the country. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Afghans Hope Gathering of Clerics Will Solve Nation’s Problems: Tolo News

Residents of the provinces of Ghazni, Maidan Wardak, Kunduz, and Baghlan speaking to TOLOnews expressed hopes that the “Gathering of Islamic Clerics” will find a basic solution for the country’s current economic crises and job shortages. Click here to read…

US and Taliban to Meet in Qatar to Talk About Unfreezing Afghanistan Funds: The Khaama Press

Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Foreign Minister of the Taliban, led a delegation that left for Qatar on 29th June to continue discussions with US officials over releasing $9 billion in withheld Afghan assets as the country struggles with a famine and poverty crisis. Click here to read…

Moscow Trying to ‘Build Relations’ With Kabul: Putin: Tolo News

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow is attempting to build relations with the Islamic Emirate and that Russia wants to see all the ethnic groups in Afghanistan take part in running the country. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Navy detains 135 Indian fishermen on Bay- The Daily Star

Bangladesh Navy detained 135 Indian fishermen, including eight trawlers, from the Bay of Bengal on Monday night. Click here to read…

‘We have won’- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday told parliament that construction of Padma Bridge had been delayed for two years due to conspiracy. Click here to read…

Bangladesh-US relations to flourish further- The Daily Star

Bangladesh heartily believes that its relationship with the US will flourish in the coming days as the bond between the two nations is strong not only at the government level but also at the people’s level, Law Minister Anisul Huq said yesterday. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Confusions over Money and Financial Bills- Kuensel

Even though it is the third Parliament, there are confusion and lack of clarity on what construes a Money Bill and a Financial Bill. Click here to read…

Bhutan’s borders to reopen in September- Kuensel

Bhutan will reopen its borders to tourists on September 23, 2022, the Tourism Council of Bhutan announced yesterday. Click here to read…

29 percent of irregularities from AAR 2010-2020 pertains Hydropower Projects- Kuensel

Of the total irregularities amounting to Nu 4,979.098 million (M) from Annual Audit Report (AAR) 2010-2020, Nu 649.714M was resolved as of March 31 this year. Click here to read…

PAC recommends govt to mainstream unresolved irregularities in the APA- BBS

Audit observations have been increasing over the years. And this according to the Public Accounts Committee could be resolved if the government incorporate non-compliance to laws, rules and regulations, and financial lapses in the Annual Performance Agreement or APA. Click here to read…

Nepal

Top court quashes all decisions related to Nijgadh airport- Kathmandu Post

In a 3-2 ruling, the Supreme Court, however, keeps options open for building an international airport, with strict conditions of minimal environmental damage. Click here to read…

Bhattarai faction frets as Yadav goes solo with Cabinet reshuffle proposal- Kathmandu Post

Deuba calls for consensus proposal. Observers say JSP dispute could impact the coalition. Click here to read…

Official raises some hackles by saying local units are unfit to handle school education- Kathmandu Post

During grilling by a parliamentary panel over delay in federal education bill, the education secretary said local units don’t have capability and expertise to ensure quality of education. Click here to read…

Incessant rainfall triggers floods across Tarai region- Himalayan Times

Inundation and floods triggered by incessant rainfall have killed one person and displaced hundreds of families across the Tarai. Click here to read…

On high monsoon alert in Nepal- Nepali Times

The flood in Sindhupalchok a year ago on 15 June swept away Asha Gurung’s dreams. The mother of three was swift enough to save her children but lost her house, cattle, eatery and all other valuables to the disaster. Click here to read…

Inflation hits a 6-year high in Nepal. What next?- Online Khabar

“Some time ago, the price of an egg increased from Rs 15 to Rs 17 and now the eggs per crate costs around Rs 500. A few days ago, jar water became more expensive. Click here to read…

Maldives

No plans to lockdown Maldives again: Minister Naseem: Edition Mv

Health Minister Ahmed Naseem said on Wednesday that there were no plans to put Maldives under lockdown again despite increased Covid cases in the country. Click here to read…

Health Ministry requests to submit ventilator case for arbitration to recover payment: The Sun

Health Ministry has requested with Attorney General’s Office (AGO) to file an arbitration case to recover the monies paid by the government to Dubai-based Executors General Trading to procure ventilators for COVID-19 patients in 2020. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Three more bodies found near Letpadaung copper mine- Myanmar Now

The tortured bodies were discovered just days after junta forces murdered and dismembered two other local men in the area. Click here to read…

Members of Myanmar army-backed militia shot dead at Mon State checkpoint- Myanmar Now

A local resistance force claims responsibility for an ambush that reportedly killed five Pyu Saw Htee guards. Click here to read…

Heavy fighting reported as KNU continues assault on junta outpost near Thai border- Myanmar Now

Regime forces deploy airstrikes and heavy artillery in a bid to prevent another base from falling into KNU hands. Click here to read…

Myanmar maritime trade surges by $1.3 mln as of 17 June- GNLM

The value of Myanmar’s maritime trade between 1 April and 17 June in the current financial year 2022-2023 soared to US$5.38 billion, reflecting a sharp rise of $1.3 billion, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Click here to read…

All possible means should be applied to control illegal trade along the trade routes in states and regions: Vice-Senior General- GNLM

State Administration Council Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win addressed the coordination meeting 3/2022 of the Anti-Illegal Trade Steering Committee in the meeting room of the Ministry of Commerce in Nay Pyi Taw at 2 pm yesterday. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa calls Vladimir Putin, to visit UAE to seek fuel imports: WION News

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been exploring options of buying oil from Russia and he is already in conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, a minister said according to PTI. Click here to read…

Quick Passports for Foreign Employment: News First

Sri Lanka’s new Minister of Investment Promotion Dhammika Perera has taken a series of measures to address the longstanding issues at the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Click here to read…

Doctors, bankers protest ‘impossible situation’ as Sri Lanka runs out of fuel: Times Of India

Doctors and bankers were among hundreds of Sri Lankans who marched on Wednesday to demand the government resolve a severe fuel shortage at the heart of the Indian Ocean island’s worst economic crisis in decades or step down. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Finance ministry sees more tough times ahead: Dawn

Hinting at a further increase in the policy rate by the State Bank of Pakistan, the Ministry of Finance anticipates ‘blurred growth prospects’ for the economy, which could be marred by the prevailing inauspicious global environment and higher domestic inflation, going beyond 15 per cent, in the upcoming fiscal year set to begin on Friday. Click here to read…

TTP refuses to budge from demand for Fata merger reversal: Dawn

The proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has categorically stated that the insurgent group would not back down from its demand for the reversal of the merger of erstwhile Fata with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

China to Issue Visas for Afghan Businesspeople: Tolo News

In a meeting with the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Amir Khan Muttaqi, the ambassador of China, Wang Yu, expressed China’s readiness to facilitate visas for Afghan businesspeople in Afghanistan, MoFA announced Click here to read…

Voices Call for Inclusion of Women, All Ethnic Groups in National Gathering: Tolo News

Anticipating the “Gathering of Islamic Clerics,” expected to be held on Wednesday, a number of politicians and residents asked that the Islamic Emirate invite women as well as representatives from all Afghan ethnic groups. Click here to read…

US Pledges $55 Million in Aid for the Victims of the Deadly Earthquake in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

According to the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s announcement on Tuesday, the United States would provide Afghanistan immediate assistance amounting $55 million in response to the devastating earthquake that struck last week in a remote part of the country’s southeast. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Fuel prices may go up by at least Tk 10- The Daily Star

The government is bent on raising fuel prices by Tk 10-30 each litre, despite vehement opposition from consumer rights groups and experts. Click here to read…

Mask mandate back again- The Daily Star

As Covid-19 cases are rising steeply in the country, the Cabinet Division yesterday instructed all officials concerned to enforce the “no mask, no service” policy everywhere and ensure that everyone follows health safety rules. Click here to read…

Press freedom enjoyed like never before- The Daily Star

Newspapers and electronic media are now enjoying unrestrained freedom under the current government, Information Minister Hasan Mahmud told parliament yesterday. Click here to read…

Dhaka Tokyo ink loan and grant deeds- The Daily Star

Bangladesh and Japan have signed a loan and grant agreement worth $1.23 billion for projects including the northern route of Mass Rapid Transit Line 5. Click here to read…

“Impose sanctions on Dr Yunus, Hilary Clinton and Cherie Blair”- The Daily Star

Independent lawmaker and a presidium member of Jubo League, Mujibur Rahman Chowdhury, today demanded in the parliament to impose sanctions on Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus, Hilary Clinton, and Cherie Blair so that they could not hatch any further conspiracy against Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Momen seeks apology, compensation from “institution” that claimed Padma Bridge corruption- The Daily Star

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has sought apology and compensation from those who humiliated Bangladesh through accusing some top officials of a conspiracy of corruption in the Padma Bridge project. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan can become energy secure in next 3 years: Lyonpo Loknath Sharma- Kuensel

Bhutan at present is not energy secure, said Lyonpo Loknath Sharma. Adding 200MW of wind energy in the next 2 to 3 years, he said, could help the country achieve energy security. Click here to read…

Tourists who confirmed tours before June 20 can visit at old pricing- Kuensel

All tours confirmed before June 20, 2022 can avail of rates applicable under the Tourism Levy Act of Bhutan 2020, the minimum daily package rate (MDPR), which includes the royalty of USD 65. Click here to read…

Falling boulders kill two men and injure three in Samdrupjongkhar- Kuensel

Falling boulders killed two men and injured three men at Phochu in Lauri gewog, Samdrupjongkhar, on June 27. Click here to read…

NA passes Tourism Levy Bill 2022- BBS

The National Assembly passed the Tourism Levy Bill 2022 today, accepting all the Council’s recommendations. The Bill will now be submitted to His Majesty The King for Royal Assent. As per the Bill, every tourist visiting Bhutan will be levied a Sustainable Development Fee of 200 US dollars per night. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives to build one of the world’s first floating cities as response to climate change: The National News

The Maldives will soon be home to one of the world’s first floating cities. Set in a warm-water lagoon close to the capital, Male, the new district will feature thousands of waterfront residences built across a flexible, functional grid. Click here to read…

Cabinet ministers briefed on latest updates of Yoga Day violence: The Sun

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Tuesday, has briefed his cabinet on the finding of the cabinet subcommittee investigating the mob attack on event held on June 21 at the National Stadium to mark the International Day of YogaClick here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar: Response overview, June 2022 – Relief Web

Humanitarian needs in Myanmar continue to rise sharply since February 2021 as a result of political and economic upheaval and increased conflict. Click here to read…

Junta restricts food sales in Tanintharyi’s Palaw Township – Mizzima

The junta has ordered the closure of rice warehouses and restricted sales of food in Palaw Township in Myeik District, Tanintharyi Region, since 26 June, according to locals. Click here to read…

Thai authorities rescue two Burmese nationals from sinking boat – Mizzima

The Thai Border Guard Special Force carried out an emergency rescue of two Myanmar nationals when their fishing boat sank in Thai territorial waters on 26 June at around 12 p.m. Click here to read…

NLD slams junta transfer of Suu Kyi to prison in Myanmar capital – RFA

Myanmar’s deposed National League for Democracy (NLD) on Tuesday condemned the junta’s decision to move party leader Aung San Suu Kyi from detention to a prison in the nation’s capital, citing poor conditions and lack of access to health care at the facility. Click here to read…

Number of Rakhine youths gone missing after military’s arrest – Narinjara

A number of Rakhine youths have gone missing after they were arrested by the military councils during this month from the capital city of Arakan State. They were abducted by the junta soldiers from Sittwe after the Arakan Army members arrested a military captain and a soldier from the city on 23 June. Click here to read…

ASEAN Special Envoy on Second Visit to Myanmar; No Meeting With Suu Kyi – The Irrawaddy

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Special Envoy on Myanmar will start his second tour to the country on Wednesday, following up on the bloc’s peace plan and humanitarian assistance for the country that has been in social, political and economic turmoil since last year’s coup. Click here to read…

80 illegal immigrants from Myanmar held in Manipur – The Week

Eighty illegal immigrants from Myanmar were apprehended from Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Tuesday, police said. These illegal immigrants, who did not have any valid documents, were living in rented accommodations in Ngathal village and Vaal Veng of the district, they said. Click here to read…

Nepal

Government unclear on how to adjust taxes days after it slashed fuel prices- Kathmandu Post

Finance Ministry says Supply Ministry decided on price cuts; the former has made no move to revise the taxes yet. Click here to read…

Five traffic cops under probe after the incident of doctor beating- Kathmandu Post

A medical officer from Pulchowk-based health facility was beaten black and blue by a traffic official who asked him why he was ‘walking at night.’ Click here to read…

Nepal to build Budhi Gandaki hydroelectricity project through a separate company- Kathmandu Post

The storage-type 1,200 megawatt project has suffered quite some politicking over the years, with various governments allowing a Chinese firm to build it and then revoking the plan. Click here to read…

Incessant rainfall triggers floods across Tarai region- Himalayan Times

Inundation and floods triggered by incessant rainfall have killed one person and displaced hundreds of families across the Tarai. Click here to read…

UML demands resignation of Gandaki CM- Republica

The CPN-UML has demanded the resignation of CM Pokharel, saying that the ruling coalition has made the provincial assembly a prisoner of indecision by halting the discussion on the budget. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka’s economy shrinks 1.6% in the March quarter: Business Standard

Sri Lanka’s economy fell back into contraction last quarter as the country battled its worst economic problems since independence, with emergency aid to stabilise the island nation proving elusive. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka to end fuel duopoly to ease scarcity: Telegraph India

Sri Lanka will allow companies from oil-producing countries to import and sell fuel, the power and energy minister said on Tuesday, ending a duopoly as it tries to overcome a shortage of petrol and diesel that is exacerbating an economic crisis. Click here to read…

1,000 MT of Chinese Rice reach Sri Lanka: News First

44 containers of 1,000 MT rice donated by the Chinese people to Sri Lankan students arrived today. The shipment was handed over to the Ministry of Education on Tuesday (28). Click here to read…

Sri Lanka IOC restricts petrol sale amid fuel shortage: ANI

Amid the economic crisis and severe fuel shortage in Sri Lanka, Indian Oil’s subsidiary in Sri Lanka, Lanka IOC (Indian Oil Corporation) announced to restrict the sale of petrol to a maximum of Rs 7000 for four-wheelers, with immediate effect. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan needs to ‘do more’ for double IMF payout: Dawn

Pakistan will have to take at least two more “prior actions” to secure two combined tranches of about $1.85 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by the end of July or early August. Click here to read…

GST on raw material aggravates shortage of 40 drugs: The News

In the wake of 17pc GST on the import of raw material, production of medicines has considerably dropped and aggravated the shortage of, at least, 40 essential and lifesaving drugs in markets across the country. Click here to read…

Imran warns Punjab police, bureaucrats not to follow ‘illegal’ govt orders: Dawn

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan on Tuesday asked the Punjab police and bureaucracy not to follow “illegal orders” of the provincial government during the upcoming local government elections, claiming the PTI has been maintaining the departments’ record. Click here to read…

Power outages pose risk of ‘connectivity blackouts’: Dawn

The telecom industry has warned the government of connectivity failures if prolonged power outages continue amid high fuel costs and stringent conditions on battery imports. Click here to read…

Cabinet rolls out first policy to tackle hazardous waste: The Express Tribune

The federal cabinet approved on Tuesday country’s first-ever National Hazardous Waste Management Policy, 2022, hoping that the Centre and provinces would finalise a National Action Plan (NAP) implementation framework of the policy within three months so that the country does not become a dumping ground of hazardous disposals. Click here to read…

Xi encourages grain farmers to contribute to national food security: Xinhuanet

June 28, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping has underscored the exemplary role of large-scale grain growers in encouraging more farmers to contribute to the country’s food security. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks Monday in a letter replying to Xu Congxiang, a veteran grain farmer in Taihe County, east China’s Anhui Province. Click here to read…

China’s top legislator holds talks with lower house speaker of Kazakhstan’s parliament: Xinhuanet

June 28, 2022

China’s top legislator Li Zhanshu on Tuesday held video talks with Erlan Koshanov, the speaker of the Mazhilis, or lower house, of Kazakhstan’s parliament. Li, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said that under the strategic guidance and direct push of the two heads of state, China-Kazakhstan relations have continuously achieved leap-forward development and a new height in the two countries’ permanent comprehensive strategic partnership has been reached. Click here to read…

Profits of Chinese SOEs down in first five months amid pandemic: Xinhuanet

June 28, 2022

China’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) reported increased revenue but decreased profits in the first five months of this year, due to a high comparison base last year and the impacts of the pandemic, official data showed Tuesday. Click here to read…

China’s private enterprises quadruple in last 10 years: Xinhuanet

June 28, 2022

The number of Chinese private enterprises quadrupled in the past decade amid efforts to optimize the business environment, the country’s top economic planner said Tuesday. China’s private enterprises increased from 10.85 million in 2012 to 44.57 million last year, Su Wei, deputy secretary general of the National Development and Reform Commission, told a press conference. Click here to read…

China unveils major sci-tech issues of 2022: Xinhuanet

June 28, 2022

The China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) has released the major issues in science, engineering and technology, as well as industrial technology, for 2022.A total of 30 issues, including the early diagnosis of asymptomatic Alzheimer’s disease, the formation and evolution of black holes in the universe, the application of remote sensing to effectively assess the Earth’s health and the industrialization of memory-computation integrated chips, were highlighted during the closing ceremony of the CAST’s annual conference on Monday in Changsha, central China’s Hunan Province. Click here to read…

Robot takes over for humans on power lines: China Daily

June 28, 2022

A robot completed its first work with electricity on overhead power lines in the Qingshan district of Wuhan, Hubei province, on Friday. It is the first time a domestically developed robot has been used to complete electrical work on a 10 kilovolt overhead line in the province. Click here to read…

Academic institutes should be bridges rather than platforms for anti-China lies: Global Times

June 28, 2022

When asked for comments on a China Center newly established within the Hudson Institute, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on Tuesday that academic institutes should serve as bridges between different countries creating understanding and cooperation rather than distributing lies. Click here to read…

WeChat mini program offers general public virtual tours of Great Wall completely online: People’s Daily

June 28, 2022

A WeChat mini program that offers a window online for the general public to visit the Great Wall virtually was recently launched in China. The mini program was developed after a recent Great Wall protection and maintenance project was completed. During the project, several sections of the Great Wall were restored with the support of a total funding outlay of nearly 50 million yuan ($7.48 million). A documentary and a cartoon book popularizing knowledge about the Great Wall were also launched after the conclusion of the restoration project. Click here to read…

Digital yuan helps stimulate consumption, supports recovery of SMEs across China: People’s Daily

June 28, 2022

Multiple Chinese cities have recently issued “red packets” of digital yuan, or e-CNY, to stimulate consumption, with more e-CNY applications to be introduced in the future. On May 30, Shenzhen city in south China’s Guangdong Province started distributing e-CNY red packets worth 30 million yuan (about $4.50 million) on Meituan, a Chinese e-commerce platform, to revive consumption and aid businesses. Click here to read…

Chinese breakthrough lets human brains beam radio waves: South China Morning Post

June 28, 2022

Chinese researchers say they have made it possible for humans to beam radio waves with their brains in a breakthrough that could have uses ranging from health monitoring to mind-controlled military radar. In an air force laboratory experiment, researchers showed that brainwaves could control and interact with electromagnetic waves remotely. Click here to read…

Xi Jinping points to public opinion campaign as example of ‘whole-process democracy’: South China Morning Post

June 28, 2022

An online public opinion campaign for the Communist Party’s upcoming national congress has set the stage for the conclave, according to Chinese President Xi Jinping. State news agency Xinhua quoted Xi as saying the campaign was “not just an effective means for party members and the public to put forward their opinions about the country’s development and national rejuvenation but also a vivid demonstration of our whole-process democracy”.
Xinhua said the month-long campaign, which ended in mid-May, gathered 8.54 million opinions from the public for the congress, which is expected to usher in a younger party leadership and a third term for Xi as the organisation’s general secretary. Click here to read…

G-7 renews push to sanction Russia, to tackle China’s market abuse: Kyodo

June 29, 2022

Leaders from the Group of Seven nations made a renewed push Tuesday to continue punishing Russia over its war against Ukraine by agreeing to explore a price cap on Russian oil amid surging energy costs, while pledging $4.5 billion to combat a growing food crisis. Click here to read…

PetroChina may sell Australian, Canadian assets to stem losses: Reuters

June 29, 2022

PetroChina may sell out from natural gas projects in Australia and oil sands in Canada to stem losses and divert funds to more lucrative sites in the Middle East, Africa and central Asia, two people with knowledge of the matter said. Click here to read…

U.S. accuses five firms in China of supporting Russia’s military: Reuters

June 29, 2022

U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration added five companies in China to a trade blacklist on Tuesday for allegedly supporting Russia’s military and defense industrial base, flexing its muscle to enforce sanctions against Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. Click here to read…

China’s State Council appoints, removes officials: People’s Daily

June 29, 2022

The State Council announced the appointment and removal of officials Tuesday. Sun Guangyu was appointed as vice minister of emergency management. Zhen Zhanmin will no longer serve as vice president of the National Academy of Governance (NAG) and was appointed vice president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Yu Bin was appointed as deputy director of the Development Research Center of the State Council. Click here to read…

New phase of innovation begins between China and Singapore: China Daily

June 29, 2022

The China-Singapore Smart Park was officially opened on Sunday in Guangzhou, South China’s Guangdong province, a new move between the two countries to promote innovative cooperation. As an important part of the China-Singapore Guangzhou Knowledge City, a landmark Sino-Singaporean government project, the CSSP will focus on the fields of digital economy, green development, biomedicine and smart city construction. Click here to read…

Chinese grows in influence over decade: China Daily

June 29, 2022

Learning of nation’s language a major contributor to international exchanges. China has promoted the high-quality development of global Chinese language learning in the past decade, assisting foreigners in learning standard Chinese and enhancing international communication, officials and experts said. Click here to read…

Account verifications to limit spread of misinformation online: China Daily

June 29, 2022

Internet service providers as well as social media and sharing platforms are to be required to verify accounts that claim to be involved in certain specialist fields, such as the economy, education, health and justice, in order to protect the public from scams and the propagation of misleading information. Click here to read…

Efforts urged to stabilize employment: China Daily

June 29, 2022

Ensuring people’s well-being key to sustained economic development. Premier Li Keqiang has urged efforts to stabilize employment amid the new downward pressure facing the nation’s economy, saying that policies and measures to stabilize economic growth should focus on ensuring the vitality of market players to enable them to stabilize employment. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Sources: Loya Jirga of 3,000 to Be Held on Wednesday: Tolo News

Around 3,000 people from across Afghanistan have been invited to a gathering of Islamic clerics, expected to be held at the Loya Jirga Hall on Wednesday in Kabul, sources told TOLOnewsClick here to read…

Central Bank of Afghanistan: Money-Trading Through Forex Is Illegal: The Khaama Press

Da Afghanistan Bank, in a statement issued on Sunday, June 26th, announced that it has not licensed or permitted the operation of the Forex online in Afghanistan, therefore, any financial transaction through the online platform is against the law. Click here to read…

Human Rights Watch: Taliban’s Jirga Lacks Legitimacy If It Excludes Women: The Khaama Press

In reaction to the Jirga of the Taliban that will take place in the Loya Jirga tent, Human Rights Watch said that a decision-making body, such as a Jirga that excludes women and other groups is not legitimate. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Pressure on forex reserves: Govt exploring loan of up to $4.5b from IMF- The Daily Star

As a precautionary move, Bangladesh has started talks with the International Monetary Fund about taking a loan of $4-4.5 billion to shore up the precarious foreign currency reserves. Click here to read…

Fully profitable, but with govt subsidies- The Daily Star

Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (Wasa) operates with the government’s “alms”, said its managing director Taqsem A Khan while talking about the price hike of water. Click here to read…

Momen urges Britain to resettle 1 lakh Rohingya refugees- The Daily Star

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has requested the British Secretary of State Elizabeth Truss to resettle one lakh Rohingya refugees who are now sheltered in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

NC asks govt to expedite decision on delayed hydropower projects- Kuensel

The government is waiting response from the Government of India (GoI) on the issues of two hydropower projects under construction, Punatsangchu-I Hydroelectric Project and Kholongchu Hydropower Project which have been delayed. Click here to read…

Student sustains second degree burns from electrical accident- Kuensel

A 14-year-old student of Chumigthang MSS student, Pasakha is recovering at Phuentsholing General Hospital (PGH) from second degree burns he sustained from an electrical accident at Baunijhora, Pasakha on June 25. Click here to read…

Incessant rain affects work progress at Namling- Kuensel

Construction officials are advising road users to avoid travelling at night as the stretch from Yongkola to Namling area gets continuous rainfall. Click here to read…

Government outs Sung-jeon App from 12th FYP- Bhutan Today

“Sung-jeon App is for country’s security,” Lyonpo said. Adding to it, Lyonpo said internet outage outside would also impact the internet services in the country, and Sung-jeon App was planned to offset such issues. Click here to read…

Govt waiting for India’s answer to replace dam with barrage at PHPA-I- BBS

The National Assembly today redeliberated the National Council’s recommendation, to expedite the decision to avoid further delay of PHPA-I. The construction of PHPA-I began in 2008 and was scheduled for completion in 2016 with the then estimated budget of more than Nu 35bnClick here to read…

Maldives

Maldives reports over 1,000 new Covid-19 cases, five fatalities: Raajje MV

Statistics revealed that between June 19 – 25, an alarming total of 1,202 new Covid-19 infections were confirmed nationwide, including 528 from the congested capital, Greater Malé Area, 452 from residential islands outside of the capitalClick here to read…

The President concludes his official visit to Rwanda: African business

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih returned to Malé on Monday morning after concluding his official visit to the Republic of Rwanda. The President, accompanied by First Lady Fazna Ahmed and a high-level delegation, was in Kigali, Rwanda, to attend the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Army Abandons Taga, Headquarters of Northeast Insurgent Groups, after Three Years – News18

The Tatmadaw or Myanmar Army has left the Taga areas of Sagaing, Myanmar, which were captured in January 29, 2019 from the Northeast-based insurgent groups, according to sources. A top insurgent leader from Sagaing confirmed: “The Myanmar Army left the Taga areas on June 15.” Click here to read…

NUG: Burma Army Using Rape As Weapon Of War – BNI Online

Burma Army (BA) soldiers have raped at least 72 people, but sexual violence against civilians is likely to be higher since the military coup took over the country 17 months ago, according to Duwa Lashi La, acting president of the interim National Unity Government (NUG). Click here to read…

Military’s arbitrary civilian arrests are violation of human rights: Arakan activist group – BNI Online

The Arakan Human Rights Defenders and Promoters Association (AHRDPA) said in a statement on Friday that the Myanmar military’s arbitrary arrests of civilians in Arakan State are a clear violation of human rights. U Mrat Tun, an executive director of AHRDPA, told DMG that the military has arrested and tortured some civilians in Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Ponnagyun and Sittwe townships in recent days. Click here to read…

2022/65 “The International Community Needs to Prepare for a Post-Tatmadaw Myanmar” by Anders Kirstein Moeller – ISEAS

The Tatmadaw’s combat forces of around 100,000 are stretched thin, facing a vast array of armed resistance groups and engaging in unfamiliar cellularized warfare. Although the Tatmadaw maintains control of key urban centres, it has been unable to consolidate power in smaller towns and rural areas. Click here to read…

UK announces second round of sanctions against arms dealers – Mizzima

Campaigning group justice for Myanmar has welcomed the UKs second round of sanctions targeting arms dealers obtaining arms for Myanmar. The organisation also called for urgent and coordinated international action against the Myanmar military’s economic interests and business relationships, including from regional democracies Australia, India, Japan and South Korea. Click here to read…

Court in army-ruled Myanmar gives Suu Kyi colleague 21 years – AP News

Zaw Myint Maung is a second vice president and spokesperson of Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party, which won a landslide victory in the 2020 general election but was prevented from returning to the office for a second five-year term when the army seized power in February last year. Click here to read…

Nepal

They worked as domestics and dishwashers. Now they are successful entrepreneurs- Kathmandu Post

Nepalis in the industrial city of Ludhiana in Punjab, India share their rags-to-riches stories. Click here to read…

Testing of third phase of Mahakali irrigation canal begins- Kathmandu Post

The Stage III of the project, which would irrigate around 33,520 hectares of land in farwestern Nepal, has been completed after 26 years. Click here to read…

Nearly 70 percent water samples in Valley contaminated- Kathmandu Post

Officials say failure to ensure safe drinking water poses a challenge to controlling outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including cholera. At least 12 people tested positive for cholera in 8 days. Click here to read…

Amid SPP confusion, home minister makes a gaffe saying pullout letter sent to the US- Kathmandu Post

Foreign Ministry is yet to write to the US. American embassy says it acknowledges Nepali Cabinet’s public statements regarding its desire not to move forward on the SPP. Click here to read…

Citizenship bill to be passed with political consensus: Minister Khand- Kathmandu Post

Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand has said the government has been taking initiative to forward the citizenship bill with consensus among the political parties. Click here to read…

Ensure voting rights for prisoners: SC- Himalayan Times

The Supreme Court has ordered the government to allow prisoners to vote in the upcoming parliamentary elections likely to be held in November. Click here to read…

Germany to continue bilateral development cooperation with Nepal- Himalayan Times

The Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) of Germany has decided to continue with the bilateral development cooperation with Nepal beyond 2023. Click here to read…

Pakistan

UAE offers quid pro quo bailout deal: The Express Tribune

In response to Pakistan’s request for multibillion dollars in fresh loans, the United Arab Emirates has offered to buy minority shares in publicly-listed government-owned companies at a negotiated price and a seat on each of the firm’s boards. Click here to read…

Will rifts among allies brew distrust in the centre?: The Express Tribune

The anticipated unease and friction in the ruling coalition showed its tentacles on Monday over the local government elections in Sindh as MQM-P and JUI-F, among others, rejected results of Sindh LG poll results and accused PPP of rigging. Click here to read…

Import expensive fuel or brave long outages: Nepra chief: Dawn

At a public hearing on a petition for a Rs7.96 per unit increase in FCA for electricity consumed in May, Chairman Nepra Tauseef H Farooqui, who presided over the event, said though a formal notification would be issued later after verification of evidence, the minimum increase in FCA would be about Rs7.90 per unit for ex-Wapda Discos with a financial impact of Rs113bn during the upcoming billing month (July). Click here to read…

Imran unveils July 2 Islamabad protest plan: Dawn

Exactly a month after abruptly ending the Azadi March with a six-day ‘ultimatum’ to the PML-N government for announcement of early elections, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Monday announced he would lead the July 2 protest at Islamabad’s Parade Ground against the “imported government imposed on Pakistan through a US regime change conspiracy”. Click here to read…

Ex-spymaster denies meeting Imran, joining PTI: News

Former ISI DG Lt-Gen (retd) Zaheerul Islam has said that he has neither joined the PTI nor met Imran Khan. Talking to The News, he said that he had recently held a gathering of the local elders at his house in his native village in Kahuta where the community decided to support the PTI candidate for PP-7 Rawalpindi in the upcoming by-elections. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Just days from running out of fuel, Sri Lanka halts sales for 2 weeks: Times of india

Sri Lanka will shut schools and only allow fuel supplies to services deemed essential like health, trains and buses for two weeks starting Tuesday in a desperate attempt to deal with a severe shortage. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka sends SOS message to India for fuel, suspends retail sale for 2 weeks: Hindustan Times

Sri Lanka’s high commissioner Milinda Moragoda discussed with Hardeep Singh Puri the “possibility of securing petrol and diesel supplies that are required by Sri Lanka at present on an urgent basis”. Click here to read…

US delegation meets Sri Lankan President PM discusses economic crisis: The Week

A high-level US delegation on Monday met Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and discussed measures to help the island nation cope with an unprecedented economic crisis and severe shortages of essential supplies. Click here to read…

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

United States of Africa: Ultimate Dream of a Pan-Africanist

Every year on May 25, the world celebrates Africa Day. It was on May 25, 1963, that the first organisational body of Africa, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), was established in Ethiopia. Click here to read…

Mozambique’s Reversal of Fortune

Just a year ago, the news from Mozambique was rather glum. The security crisis in the northern region of Cabo Delgado had displaced hundreds of thousands of people, created a humanitarian crisis. Click here to read…

NEWS

As election season nears, Kenyans brace for unrest and hope for peace

A fleet of shiny SUVs descended on the dusty city of Wajir in northeast Kenya on a spring afternoon. Click here to read…

Tunisia’s president plans to omit ‘Islam’ from new constitution

The secularist Kais Saied is putting the constitution to a referendum on July 25 in the hope of overhauling the country’s legal, political and economic structures and granting himself more powers. Click here to read…

Somalia parliament endorses new Prime minister

Somalia’s parliament on Saturday unanimously endorsed Hamza Abdi Barre as new prime minister, paving the way for the creation of a new government for the troubled Horn of Africa nation. Click here to read…

Mali strongman Goita adopts electoral law, key to civilian rule

Mali’s strongman ruler on Friday signed into law election legislation adopted by parliament a week ago, paving the way for polls and a return of civilian rule, according to a presidential decree. Click here to read…

World Bank to provide war-torn Ethiopia with $715 mln

The World Bank on Friday agreed to provide $715 million in grants and loans to Ethiopia, which has been ravaged by drought and a devastating conflict, the country’s government said. Click here to read…

Tanzania’s Masaai demand Indigenous rights in UN framework

Tanzania’s Maasai people, resisting government pressure to leave their ancestral homes in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, have presented their demands for Indigenous land rights to negotiators in Nairobi finalizing the proposed U.N. global biodiversity framework. Click here to read…

UK names new envoy for Horn of Africa

Britain has named a new envoy for the Horn of Africa and Red Sea., strategic region beset by multiple security and humanitarian crises. Click here to read…

Shaked heads to Morocco on Monday, in 3rd visit by government minister

Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked will travel to Morocco for a diplomatic visit on Monday, becoming the third government minister to do so. Click here to read…

China Says It Is Willing to Help End Conflict in Horn of Africa

China’s special envoy to the Horn of Africa, Xue Bing, has said Beijing is ready to help the region’s countries find peace and get rid of what he called external interferenceClick here to read…

Qatar’s emir makes first visit to Egypt since thaw in ties with Doha

Qatar’s emir arrived in Cairo late Friday for talks with Egypt’s president, his first visit to the country following years of frayed ties and a boycott of Doha by four Arab states, including Egypt. Click here to read…

Sheikh Mohamed reaffirms UAE’s support for Somalia during meeting with president

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has affirmed the UAE’s continuous, all-out support for Somali people to achieve their aspirations for development, stability, prosperity. Click here to read…

Window of opportunity closing for South Sudan, on road to lasting peace

With eight months remaining, the window of opportunity is closing for South Sudan to meet critical benchmarks required to complete its transition away from long-running civil conflictClick here to read…

Algeria, Niger, Nigeria resume talks on Trans-Sahara gas pipeline

Algeria, Niger and Nigeria held talks this week on the revival of a decades-old project to pipe gas across the Sahara, a potential opportunity for Europe to diversify its gas sources as Russia’s war in Ukraine continues. Click here to read…

Burkina Faso: 14 days to evacuate before vast army operation

Burkina Faso’s army has given civilians two weeks to evacuate vast areas in northern and southeastern regions of the country in advance of military operations against rebel fighters. Click here to read…

Morocco: 18 migrants die in attempt to enter Spain’s Melilla

Moroccan authorities said that 18 migrants were killed and dozens of migrants and police officers were injured in a “stampede” of people trying to cross into the Spanish North African enclave of Melilla. Click here to read…

Attacks in Sudan’s Darfur bring new surge in people fleeing their homes

Violence in western Sudan this month alone has displaced more than 84,000 people, doubling the number of those driven from their homes so far this year, according to UN reports. Click here to read…

Libya’s Interior Ministry condemns deadly clashes in Tripoli

Libya’s Interior Ministry has condemned the deadly clashes that broke out between armed groups in the capital Tripoli. Click here to read…

Suspected Jihadists ‘Systemically’ Slaughter Over 130 People in Western Africa’s Mali

Suspected jihadists massacred more than 130 civilians over the weekend in neighbouring central Mali towns, the latest mass killings in the Sahel regionClick here to read…
Click here to read…

Morocco, US launch annual ‘African Lion’ military exercise

Morocco and the US kicked off the annual African Lion military exercises on Monday, which will last until the end of the month. The exercises include 7,500 personnel from ten nations, among them Brazil, France and BritainClick here to read…

Commonwealth heads call for climate action at Rwanda meeting

Leaders of Commonwealth nations are calling for increased climate action at a meeting in Rwanda this week, ahead of the United Nations climate change summit in Egypt later this year. Click here to read…

Eight UN peacekeepers wounded in Mali blast

Eight UN peacekeepers were wounded Thursday in a mine explosion in Mali’s Timbuktu region, the United Nations said. Click here to read…

M23 rebels ask Congolese refugees in Uganda to return home

Rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have asked refugees fleeing the conflict torn North Kivu province of the nation to return home. Click here to read…

DR Congo welcomes deployment of regional force to fight rebels

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has welcomed Kenya’s proposal to deploy a regional force to fight the M23 rebel group in the east of the country, but said it won’t accept neighbour Rwanda’s participation. Click here to read…

Commonwealth meet draws attention to Rwanda’s human rights record

Commonwealth leaders met in Kigali on Friday to discuss cooperation on topics from trade to health to climate, against a backdrop of criticism of host Rwanda’s human rights record and of a British policy to deport asylum seekers thereClick here to read…

Cameroon Deploys Hundreds of Troops to Protect 40,000 People Displaced by Boko Haram

Cameron has deployed hundreds of troops along its border with Nigeria after attacks by Boko Haram militants forced more than 40,000 villagers over the past two months to flee the area. Click here to read…

Saudi Arabia, Djibouti sign joint cooperation agreement on maritime transport

Saudi Arabia, represented by the Transport General Authority (TGA), has signed a joint maritime transport cooperation agreement with the Department of Maritime Affairs in Djibouti. Click here to read…

Gabon eyes Commonwealth entry to advance economic diversification

Gabon, a French-speaking country in Central Africa that has been seeking membership in the Commonwealth, is awaiting the final decision made at the Commonwealth summit currently held in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Click here to read…

African court orders Kenya to pay $1.3 million as reparations to indigenous Ogiek people

The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, an international court established by members of the African Union, ordered the Kenyan government June 23, 2022, to pay $1.3 millionClick here to read…

Chinese fugitive wanted for racist videos of Malawi children arrested in Zambia

A fugitive Chinese national wanted in Malawi for filming children singing racist chants in Chinese has been arrested in neighbouring ZambiaClick here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

EAM Jaishankar meets several leaders, counterparts in Rwanda

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday called on Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong here and also met several leaders and his counterparts from the Commonwealth nations to discuss bilateral ties and geopolitical trends. Click here to read…

Jaishankar discusses growing defence ties with Tanzanian counterpart

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Friday (local time) met with the Tanzanian Foreign Minister Liberata Mulamula and discussed strengthening defence and security ties between the two countries. Click here to read…

Jaishankar meets Mauritius PM, discusses thriving relations between nations

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Friday (local time) met with the Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth in Rwanda and discussed the thriving relations between the two countries. Click here to read…

EAM Jaishankar meets counterparts from Tanzania, Solomon Islands; discusses bilateral cooperation

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has met his counterparts from Tanzania and the Solomon Islands here and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors. Click here to read…

External affairs minister S Jaishankar interacts with Indian community in Rwanda

External affairs minister S Jaishankar lauded the Indian community in Rwanda for its contribution towards strengthening bilateral ties and spoke about India’s progress. Click here to read…

EAM Jaishankar calls Rwanda ‘important’ friend of India

External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar who is on his first visit to Kigali described Rwanda as the most progressive, business-friendly, and socially inclusive societies. Click here to read…

Indian embassy in Madagascar begins free Hindi classes for language enthusiasts

The Indian embassy in Antananarivo on Thursday began free Hindi language classes for all language enthusiasts in Madagascar, Indian Ambassador to Madagascar, Abhay Kumar said. Click here to read…

Senegal, India Renew Alliances with 3 MoUs

This month saw Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in Dakar, received by Senegalese President H.E. Macky Sall and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Aissata Tall Sall. Click here to read…

Indian Embassy in Madagascar celebrates 8th International Day of Yoga

The 8th International Day of Yoga celebrations took place at the University of Antananarivo, organised by Indian Embassy in Madagascar on June 21st 2022. The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Humanity” Click here to read…

Airtel Africa issues tender offer to clear $300 mn debt

Bharti Airtel International (Netherlands) BV, which manages Airtel’s Africa business, has issued a tender offer to buy back up to USD 300 million (about Rs 2,348 crore) of senior notes. Click here to read…