Afghanistan

70% of Nuristan Schools Lack Buildings: Tolo News

Nuristan’s department of education said that 70 percent of schools in this province do not have buildings, and they must temporarily use tents at these schools to solve this problem. Click here to read…

UNSC Session Discusses Afghan Human Rights, Earthquake: Tolo News

On Thursday, the UN Security Council held a session to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. In the session, many of the participants called attention to the devastating earthquake, the human rights situation, restrictions on Afghan women and girls and the overall crisis ongoing since the collapse of republic government in August 2021. Click here to read…

Earthquake Survivors in Afghanistan at Risk of a Disease Outbreak: The Khaama Press

Following a UN agency’s warning of a cholera outbreak in the quake-hit area, the spokesperson of the Taliban’s Ministry of Public Health said on Sunday that thousands of people affected by the fatal earthquake in southeast Afghanistan need access to clean water, food, and are highly susceptible to diseases. Click here to read…

Kabul Optimistic about Formal Recognition amid Heightened Situation: The Khaama Press

The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Amir Khan Muttaqi said he is optimistic about Islamic Emirate relations with the international community, hopping for world recognition amid ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

‘Polls will be transparent’- The Daily Star

Australian High Commis-sioner to Bangladesh Jeremy Bruer yesterday said Australia hopes that Bangladesh’s next general election will go well and be transparent. Click here to read…

Acquire scientific knowledge – The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged students to acquire scientific knowledge and take the country towards development and prosperity. Click here to read…

Explore alternative power sources – The Daily Star

Capacity charges for idle power plants, theft in the name of system loss, wastage and dependency on imported gas and fuel without exploring alternatives are the main causes behind high energy costs, said speakers at a dialogue yesterday. Click here to read…

New law will be enacted for police: Home Minister – The Daily Star

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told the parliament today that a new law for the Bangladesh Police will be enacted keeping in view of the current situation and turning police into a more people-friendly and service-oriented organisation. Click here to read…

Saudi Arabia detains Bangladeshi hajj pilgrim for “begging” – The Daily Star

Saudi Arabian police detained a Bangladeshi hajj pilgrim on charges of begging in Madinah. Click here to read…

Minority leaders demand Momen’s resignation over remarks made in India – The Daily Star

Minority community leaders in Bangladesh today demanded resignation of Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen over statements they claimed he made while visiting India, regarding atrocities on minorities in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

“India, Pakistan, US lauded govt on Padma Bridge opening, but BNP couldn’t” – The Daily Star

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today (June 26, 2022) said India, the US and even Pakistan extended greetings to the government as Bangladesh opened the biggest self-financed Padma Bridge, yet BNP could not. Click here to read…

PM urges Kuwait to invest in Bangladesh’s Special Economic Zones – The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged the Kuwait government to invest in Special Economic Zones of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Is Bhutan’s economy at risk?- Kuensel

Bhutanese economy has been recovering well from the pandemic after the economy contracted to 10.1 percent in 2020. Click here to read…

Understanding Tourism Industry- Kuensel

Current national discourse on the tourism industry, with all the passion and diversion of views, is educative. It is a welcome trend that there is a vigorous exchange on an issue of national concern and importance and impact. Click here to read…

Fourth phase of monetary measures provides loan restructuring options- Kuensel

Phase IV of the monetary measures will allow eight different forms of loan restructuring options to support depending on the severity of impact of the pandemic and the affordability of the borrowers. Click here to read…

Finance Minister introduces Tourism Levy Bill of Bhutan in NC- Bhutan Times

The minister for finance, the Member In-Charge of the Bill, Namgay Tshering introduced the Tourism Levy Bill of Bhutan 2022 in National Council on 24 June. Click here to read…

Indian Embassy celebrates 8th International Day of Yoga in the capital- Bhutan Times

In collaboration with Bhutanese friends and fellow Indians, the Embassy of India organized the main event of the celebrations of the 8th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at the Clock Tower Square, Thimphu on 21 June. Click here to read…

Increase bandwidth for Druk Research and Education network- Bhutan Times

In keeping with the request made by the government, Bhutan’s Druk Research and Education Network, which is connected to India’s National Knowledge Network, will be provided increased internet bandwidth from 1 GBPS to 5 GBPS. Click here to read…

NC recommends Govt. to stop extending deadlines for hydropower projects- BBS

With the ongoing hydropower projects in the country repeatedly missing deadlines, the National Council (NC) has recommended the government avoid this. Click here to read…

Maldives

The Maldives, Not entirely idyllic: The SUN

The Maldives presents unique governance problems as it is not a contiguous territorial nation state. There are 1,192 islands, of which 187 are reportedly populatedClick here to read…

Was not instructed against holding yoga event by any authority: The SUN
Youth Ministry, on Sunday, has stated that they were not instructed by the Islamic Ministry nor any other government authorities against holding the event at national football stadiumClick here to read…

Myanmar

The U.S. Can Put Sanctions on Russian Gas to Punish Putin. I’m Asking It to Do the Same in Myanmar – NY Times

Myanmar’s modern history has been marked by colonial exploitation, military repression, violence and democracy denied. Grass-roots activists like me and thousands before me have dedicated our lives and sacrificed our safety to change this. Click here to read…

Myanmar Resistance Claims 25 Junta Soldiers Killed – The Irrawaddy

A total of 25 Myanmar junta troops and allied militia members were killed by the people’s defense forces (PDFs) at a village in Tamu Township, Sagaing Region, on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Dhaka seeks Commonwealth support for Rohingya repatriation – TBS News

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has reiterated that earliest repatriation of all forcibly displaced Rohingyas back to their ancestral homeland in Rakhine in safety and dignity remains Bangladesh’s compelling priority. Click here to read…

Military is Weaker Since Coup and Momentum is With the Armed Resistance – The Irrawaddy

Ye Myo Hein, the executive director of the Tagaung Institute of Political Studies and a public policy fellow with the Woodrow Wilson International Center’s Asia Program, recently published a research report: “One Year On: The Momentum of Myanmar’s Armed Rebellion.”Click here to read…

Arakan Army Detains Myanmar Naval Officer – The Irrawaddy

The Arakan Army (AA) seized a captain from the Myanmar military’s Danyawaddy naval base in Rakhine State’s capital, Sittwe, on Thursday, according to town residents. The captain was detained near the naval base and was reportedly in uniform and armed when abducted by the AA. Click here to read…

DFA signs framework allowing Rohingya refugees to study in PH – Manilla Bulletin

Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin Jr. signed last Wednesday, June 22, the Legal Framework for the Complementary Pathways (CPath) Program for Rohingyas, which aims to provide an educational pathway to eligible beneficiaries and engage relevant government agencies and private institutions to promote durable solutions to help beneficiaries achieve self-relianceClick here to read…

Nepal

CPN (US) demand met, Cabinet reshuffled- Himalayan Times

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari has, on the recommendation of Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, appointed new ministers from CPN (Unified Socialist). Click here to read…

Parliament to endorse citizenship bill: Speaker- Himalayan Times

Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota said the Parliament was preparing to pass the citizenship bill in the current budget session. Click here to read…

‘Identify competencies to enhance students’ performance’- Himalayan Times

India’s renowned behavioural scientist Prof of Eminence Sanjeev P Sahni has emphasised ‘maximising potential through behavioural competencies and performance enhancement of students’. Click here to read…

Forex reserves down to fund imports for just a little over six months raises alarm- Kathmandu Post

Questions arise if import control measures have worked and government is doing much to address economic woes. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Putin to the rescue? Sri Lanka seeks discounted oil from Russia & Qatar: Indian Express

Sri Lanka announced sending ministers to Russia & Qatar to try and secure cheap oil. 2 ministers will visit Russia & discuss getting more oil, after the purchase of 90,000 tonnes of Siberian crude in May. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka to use foreign companies to distribute fuel: Prensa Latina

The Sri Lankan government will allow foreign companies to distribute fuel in a measure aimed at alleviating the shortage of gasoline and diesel due to the country’s economic crisis, media reported on Sunday. Click here to read…

Top US officials in Sri Lanka to help resolve the economic crisis: Tribune India

A high-level US delegation arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday to hold talks with the country’s top leadership and explore the “most effective ways” to help the island nation resolve its unprecedented economic crisisClick here to read…

Pakistan

Terrorism increased as provinces’ role in NAP ignored: PM: Dawn

Chairing a meeting on law and order here, the prime minister lamented that the role of the provinces in the implementation of NAP had been ignored during the last four years [when PTI was in power] which led to an increase in acts of terrorism in the country. Click here to read…

Turkiye keen to expand trade with Pakistan: Dawn

As Pakis¬tan and Turkiye prepare to conclude the Trade in Goods Agreement (TGA) next month, Ankara is keen on increasing the number of flights from the three existing cities and adding two more destinations in Pakistan while a power distribution company wants to invest in Lahore. Click here to read…

Pakistan to approach G20 against India’s plan: The Express Tribune

Pakistan will reach out to the G20 countries particularly with which it has close ties in an attempt to stop India from holding any event or meeting of the grouping in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Click here to read…

ANP cries foul as PTI snatches PK-7 seat in Swat by-poll: The Express Tribune

The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidate, Fazal Maula on Sunday won the Swat by-election in PK-7 constituency of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly by defeating the Awami National Party (ANP) rival. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Earthquake Death Toll in Paktika, Khost Rises to 1,100: Tolo News

Islamic Emirate officials said that the death toll from Wednesday’s devastating earthquake in Paktika and Khost provinces has risen to about 1,100 and the number of injured has risen to 1,600.The Ministry of State for Disaster Management said that more than 1,000 of the injured are in critical condition. The number of victims and injured is increasing day by day, as some people are still trapped in the wreckage. Click here to read…

MoRR Calls on UNHCR to Address Problems of Refugees: Tolo News

The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation (MoRR) called on the UN High Commissioner for Refugees to address the problems of Afghan refugees abroad. Talking to the gathering held to mark World Refugee Day, the acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, Khalil Rahman Haqqani, expressed concerns over the mistreatment of Afghan refugees abroad. Click here to read…

The EU Allocates €1 Million for the Victims of Earthquake in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

The European Commission is allocating €1 million in humanitarian assistance in response to the devastating earthquake that struck southern Afghanistan early on June 22. This funding will be used to meet the most urgent needs of those impactedClick here to read…

Bangladesh

A leap for Asian connectivity- The Daily Star

This is a dream bridge which will not only establish the long-awaited direct road and rail communications between the capital city and south-western parts of Bangladesh but also contribute to greater connectivity and trade among Asian countries. Click here to read…

Hasina proposes joint river dredging with India to tackle floods- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday (June 23, 2022) proposed conducting dredging of rivers jointly with India which are shared by the two neighbouring countries for their mutual interest. Click here to read…

AL web team receives overwhelming greetings from grassroots on founding anniversary- The Daily Star

A huge number of people extended greetings to the Bangladesh Awami League on its 73rd founding anniversary by sending short messages and audio-visuals responding to call of the party. Click here to read…

‘Invest more in research’- The Daily Star

Scholars from different universities have stressed the need for increasing funds and research activities on digital technologies for preparing for the fourth industrial revolutionClick here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan to adopt Torts Law- Bhutan Today

Civil Liability law will provide monetary compensation or damages for harm or injury as a result of commission or omission (negligence by either organization- government or private or by an individual, also, it will provide relief to the injured parties for harms caused by others and deter others from committing harmful acts. Click here to read…

Immigration officials come under ACC’s radar for misusing funds- Bhutan Today

Upon investigation of all the suspected immigration staff, the investigation led to further interrogation of these three officials and they were detained. Click here to read…

Bhutan fights back against water crisis- DW

Bhutan is increasingly struggling with the consequences of climate change as droughts and floods destroy local cropsClick here to read…

Maldives

Price of petrol rises to MVR 16.55 per liter: The SUN

State Trading Organization (STO) has raised the price of fuel sold in Maldives following the hike in global fuel prices. Click here to read…

Acts that harm foreign interests to be criminalized: Avas MV

The Attorney General’s Office has sent a bill to the President’s Office seeking to criminalize acts that are harmful to the country’s foreign interests. Click here to read…

Myanmar

ADB okays $41.4m grant for Rohingyas – The Daily Star

The Asian Development Bank yesterday approved a $41.4 million grant to help improve infrastructure and manage the basic needs of Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Burma Army Extends Deadline For SSPP In Southern Shan State – BNI Online

The regime has extended the deadline for the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) to withdraw from three camps in southern Shan State, but a representative of the ethnic armed group told SHAN they aren’t going anywhere. Click here to read…

Myanmar military junta confirms Suu Kyi’s imprisonment – LaPrensLatina

Myanmar’s military junta confirmed Thursday the entry into prison of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi, under house arrest since the February 2021 coup. Click here to read…

AA urges Arakanese people to be wary of potential for sectarian strife – BNI Online

The Arakan Army (AA) has called on the people of Arakan State to be wary of the military junta, which it accused of stoking racial and religious tensions in the region following the disappearance and apparent kidnapping of two educators in Maungdaw Township. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi moved to prison from undisclosed location – Reuters

Myanmar’s ruling military authorities have transferred deposed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi to prison from the undisclosed location she has been held at since last year’s army coup, news outlets including the BBC reported on Thursday. Click here to read…

End of Mission Statement: Thomas Andrews, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar (23 June 2022) – Relief Web

The UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, today expressed his appreciation for Malaysia’s increasing leadership on the crisis in Myanmar, and urged States in the region to adopt a similar approach to the human rights catastrophe unfolding under military ruleClick here to read…

Nepal

Crusher industry rules amendment stayed- Himalayan Times

The Supreme Court has stayed amendment made to the Standard on Extraction, Sale, and Management of Stones, Pebbles, and Sand- 2020 by the government on May 22. Click here to read…

Former govt official held for amassing illegal assets- Himalayan Times

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority today filed a charge-sheet at the Special Court against a former Nayab Subba (non-gazetted first class officer) for allegedly accumulating disproportionate assets worth around Rs 24.5 million during his service term at various offices of the Government of Nepal. Click here to read…

Shrestha appointed Nepal’s ambassador to China- Himalayan Times

President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Thursday appointed Bishnu Pukar Shrestha as Nepal’s residential ambassador to the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Click here to read…

Madhav Nepal’s tale of woe continues with ministers defying party decision- Kathmandu Post

Unified Socialist chair wants Cabinet reshuffle but Deuba is reluctant, stoking blame gameClick here to read…

Government is in a fix. It has decided to shun SPP but is not clear how to do that- Kathmandu Post

Foreign Ministry officials say they’ve got Cabinet decision ‘not to move ahead’, which they find too vague to pursue. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Editorial: Parliament’s imprimatur: Dawn

IT may be a given that the country’s security establishment would take the lead in talks with the banned TTP, but it was important that this hugely consequential issue be part of a more inclusive process. And that is the direction in which matters at last seem to be moving. Click here to read…

43pc foreign-funded projects found to be ‘problematic’: Dawn

The Ministry of Economic Affairs said on Thursday that 43 per cent of about $35 billion worth of foreign-funded projects were problematic — either not progressing well or unable to deliver the desired outcomes. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

India team in Lanka: Ready to aid recovery via investments: Indian Express

MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said Kwatra, accompanied by Seth and Nageswaran, held “productive discussions” with President Rajapaksa “on the current situation in Sri Lanka and India’s ongoing support”.Click here to read…

India to extend full support to Sri Lanka, says Foreign Secy: Tribune India

In a surprise visit to Sri Lanka, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra has assured that India will extend its full support to the economically beleaguered country in overcoming its difficult situation as a close friend. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Hundreds Reported Killed in Southeast Afghanistan From 6.1 Earthquake: Tolo News

Hundreds of people were killed and wounded in an earthquake that occurred early Wednesday morning in southeastern Afghanistan, according to a statement of the Ministry of State for Disaster Management. Mawlawi Sharafuddin Muslim, deputy Minister of State for Disaster Management, told a news conference that “920 people were killed and 610 were injured” in the earthquake that hit several provinces of AfghanistanClick here to read…

Iran Shares Afghanistan’s Grief Over the Deadly Earthquake and is Prepared to Aid the Victims: The Khaama Press

The Iranian media also reported that Mohammad Hassan Nami, the head of Iran’s Crisis Management Organization, stated that the Iranian agency was completely prepared to aid earthquake victims in Afghanistan. Khatibzada conveyed his sincere condolences to his Afghan people and hoped for the victims’ departed souls to find eternal peace while also wishing for the well-being of those who had been wounded. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

ADB okays $41.4 m grant for Rohingyas- The Daily Star

The Asian Development Bank yesterday approved a $41.4 million grant to help improve infrastructure and manage the basic needs of Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Fear of flood looms over Dhaka’s low-lying areas- The Daily Star

“For the last one week, the water has been rising here. It’s increased by, like, two feet. We’re fearing that we may get flooded, at a time when the water in Sylhet is receding.” Click here to read…

Matarbari plant: Govt won’t implement phase-2- The Daily Star

The government has decided not to implement the second phase of the Matarbari coal-fired power plant, a cabinet member confirmed yesterday hours after Japan announced the cancellation of funding for the project. Click here to read…

Bangladesh seeking wheat from Russia, officials say- The Daily Star

Bangladesh is trying to secure wheat supplies from Russia in a government-to-government deal after its biggest supplier India restricted exports of the grain last month to contain local prices, government and trade officials told Reuters on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bourgeoning fiscal deficits a concern – Kuensel

Bhutan’s fiscal deficit has increased to more than Nu 22.88 billion or 11.25 percent of the GDP in the fiscal year 2022-23. Click here to read…

Govt. building foundations for the economic road map- Kuensel

The government is building foundations for the 21st century economic road map which is still a draft. Click here to read…

Bhutan has enough foreign currency reserve: PM – Kuensel

The government maintains that there is foreign currency reserve to last for more than one and a half years. Click here to read…

Editorial: Let’s give reform a chance- Kuensel

With details emerging from the Tourism Levy Bill, 2022, there are concerns, recommendations, and even pleas to stop, rethink, and postpone revising the sustainable development fee (SDF) of USD 200 per tourist per day. Click here to read…

Maldives

The Maldives are building a floating city to address rising sea levels and population: CBC

The Maldives is in the early stages of building an elaborately designed floating city in an effort to ensure future livable spaces, as sea levels continue to rise, and provide new affordable spaces for the densely populated island nationClick here to read…

Police make four additional arrests in Yoga Day violence, including Sheikh Nishan: The Sun

Maldives Police Service on Wednesday made four additional arrests in connection to the mob attack on the Yoga Day event at the national football stadium, including Al-Sheikh Adam Nishan bin Ali Adam. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Junta Searches Homes After Arakan Army Seizures – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar junta troops have been searching houses and detaining residents in Kyauktaw Township, Rakhine State, after the Arakan Army (AA) seized three police officers on Monday, according to residents. Click here to read…

Why Myanmar Military Should Repatriate Rohingyas From Bangladesh As Soon As Possible – Eurasia Review

Rohingyas organized demonstrations under the slogan “Let’s go home” just a day before World Refugee Day, with 19 demands, including their prompt and dignified repatriation to Myanmar and the involvement of international organizations in the repatriation. Click here to read…

Myanmar minister joins Southeast Asian defense meeting – AP News

Myanmar’s defense minister, under sanctions from the United States, Britain and other countries for abuses committed by his country’s military, was welcomed Wednesday to an annual meeting with his counterparts in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Armed Resistance Groups Ready to go on Offensive: NUG – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s parallel National Unity Government (NUG) says its armed wing the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) have matured and are getting closer to the level of a professional army, over a year after they were first formed. Click here to read…

Pakistan

No choice other than IMF-dictated budget, NA told: Dawn

Accusing the previous Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) regime of bringing the country on the verge of bankruptcy, Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Sherry Rehman on Wednesday said the present coalition government had no choice but to present the budget on the dictation and terms of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Click here to read…

Experts oppose expansion of gas, LNG infrastructure in Pakistan: The Express Tribune

International and local experts raised alarm on expansion of gas and LNG infrastructure in Pakistan in a webinar on Wednesday, saying it would pose threat to Paris Agreement goals and lead to a climate change crisis in the country. Click here to read…

$2.3b loan deal inked with China: The News

China has signed a $2.3 billion commercial loan deal with Pakistan to boost its sliding foreign exchange reserves, as the government waits for the rollover of three more maturing loans totalling $2 billion. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Lanka’s economy has collapsed, IMF only hope: Tribune India

Sri Lanka’s economy has “completely collapsed” and it is facing a far more serious situation beyond the mere shortages of fuel, gas, electricity and food, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe warned on Wednesday, underscoring the urgency of arriving at an early agreement with the IMF to obtain an additional credit facility. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka’s prime minister says economy has ‘completely collapsed’: The Guardian

Sri Lanka’s debt-laden economy has “collapsed” after months of shortages of food, fuel and electricity, the prime minister told lawmakers in comments that underscored the country’s dire situation as it seeks help from international lenders. Click here to read…

FM Sitharaman assures ‘fullest support’ to Sri Lanka, hopes for its economic recovery: ZEE News

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has assured Sri Lanka of her “fullest support” and cooperation for its recovery from the ongoing economic crisis. Sitharaman conveyed the assurance to Sri Lankan High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda when the envoy met her on Monday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

MoRR Calls on UNHCR to Address Problems of Refugees: Tolo News

The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation (MoRR) called on the UN High Commissioner for Refugees to address the problems of Afghan refugees abroad. Talking to the gathering held to mark World Refugee Day, the acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, Khalil Rahman Haqqani, expressed concerns over the mistreatment of Afghan refugees abroad. Click here to read…

Kabul, Tashkent to Conduct Survey of Trans-Afghan Railway Project: Tolo News

Afghanistan and Uzbekistan are set to conduct a survey of the trans-Afghan railway project, the Afghanistan Railway Authority (ARA) said. The head of the ARA, Bakht Rahman Sharafat, said that the Islamic Emirate is committed to ensuring the security of the trans-Afghan projectClick here to read…

Afghanistan and Iran Strike an Agreement Over Helmand River Water-Sharing: The Khaama Press

According to an official from the Ministry of Energy and Water, Afghanistan and Iran have resolved their water-sharing disagreement and struck an agreement on the Helmand water pact. The Ministry of Energy and Water said that the water of the Helmand River will be shared with Iran this year, in accordance with the Helmand Water Treaty signed between the two countries in 1973. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Govt responded immediately to tackle flood: PM tells EU ambassador- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday (June 21, 2022) said the government took immediate measures to cope with the flood situation. Click here to read…

Rain stopped, sufferings did not- The Daily Star

Even though the torrential rain took a break in the port city, the sufferings of residents did not. Many low-lying areas in the city are still under knee-deep water. Click here to read…

Hasina likely to visit India in early Sept- The Daily Star

Bangladesh and India are in discussion to finalise a date in early September for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to New Delhi, says Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen. Click here to read…

“Country ready for take-off, policymakers must ensure a secure launching pad”- The Daily Star

As Bangladesh enters the new phase of its development, it must deal with the twin challenges of sustaining economic growth and managing the changes that comes with it, said CRI Trustee and Bangabandhu’s grandson Radwan Mujib Siddiq. Click here to read…

France, Germany express concern over scrapping of NGO Odhikar’s registration- The Daily Star

France and Germany have expressed deep concern over the scrapping of non-government organisation (NGO) Odhikar’s registration by the Government of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

His Majesty returns from tour of southern dzongkhags- Kuensel

His Majesty The King arrived in Thimphu yesterday, following a Royal tour of the Southern dzongkhags. During the tour, His Majesty visited Punakha, Wangduephodrang, Tsirang, Sarpang, Phuentsholing and Samtse. Click here to read…

Tourism Levy Bill proposes USD 200 a day in SDF- Kuensel

Tourists visiting Bhutan shall be liable to pay a sustainable development fund (SDF) of USD 200 per night. Click here to read…

Bhutan and Nepal to sign bilateral trade agreement- Kuensel

The governments of Bhutan and Nepal are expected to sign a formal bilateral trade agreement in three months to promote and strengthen trade and commerce. Click here to read…

Loan repayment period for education loan could be extended: Finance Minister- BBS

The Finance Minister said there is a possibility of extending the loan repayment period for students who took education loans from the financial institutions. The minister said this in the National Council. Presently, the students have to repay the loans within ten years. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Sellouts and false prophets: Cinema in the Myanmar revolution – Frontier Myanmar

Prior to February 1, 2021, decades of military rule had already ravaged Myanmar’s film industry; since the coup, the wounds have only accrued. When the National League for Democracy government ordered cinemas across the country to close in March 2020 due to the pandemic – a decision that plunged the entire film industry into stasis – they had been promoting the gun-wielding gangster flick Original Gangster 3 as their next feature. Click here to read…

Cambodian Defence Minister, Myanmar Defence Minister holds bilateral talks – Khmertimeskh

The meeting was held on the night of June 21 at Sokha Hotel in Phnom Penh after the Minister of Defence of Myanmar led a delegation of the Ministry of Defence of the Union of Myanmar to Cambodia to attend the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting. Click here to read…

A daily walk to school, from Myanmar to India – Hindustan Times

That bridge, that sign, the gate, and the river are significant milestones. Because they are the international border between India and Myanmar, that Manguii and her mother cross it every day — to go to school. Click here to read…

Parallel government in Myanmar creates own digital currency – Laprensalatina

The self-proclaimed legitimate government of Myanmar, made up of politicians and pro-democracy activists after the military coup of 2021, announced Tuesday the creation of its own digital currency, available through its own mobile payment system. Click here to read…

Arakan Army making retaliatory detentions of junta soldiers: AA spokesman – BNI Online

The AA spokesman, however, refused to provide details about how many and where the AA members were detained. Following the AA’s detention of a junta soldier in Ponnagyun Township on June 16, the Myanmar military detained at least five residents in the town on suspicion of having ties to the ethnic armed group. Click here to read…

Myanmar junta peace talks seek to keep ethnic armed groups at bay – BNI Online

The Myanmar junta calls them “peace talks” but the aim appears to be to keep potential enemies at bay. When the State Administration Council (SAC) recently announced peace talks, offering an olive branch to the Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAO), junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said the talks are for the benefit of Myanmar’s people “to enjoy the essence of peace and development”. Click here to read…

Nepal

Flight disruption averted, talks on- Himalayan Times

A late night meeting between the domestic airline operators and the aviation sector regulator held today ended inconclusively, but the earlier announced flight disruption from tomorrow has been withdrawn. Click here to read…

NC seeks voting rights for migrant Nepalis- Himalayan Times

Nepali Congress general secretaries Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma today met Chief Election Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya and urged him to ensure voting rights for Nepalis staying abroad. Click here to read…

Journalist Rabi Lamichhane announces new political party- Himalayan Times

Former TV anchor Rabi Lamichhane has announced a new political party: the National Independent Party, ending his career as journalist, and begun his new journey as politician from today. Click here to read…

Ad-hoc decisions put Nepal’s aviation—and tourism—in disarray- Kathmandu Post

The civil aviation body is not the only one wreaking havoc on the industry, the tourism minister has done his share of the damage too, insiders say. Click here to read…

Congress leaders call for letting Nepalis away vote. Poll body says not feasible- Kathmandu Post

Despite Supreme Court order in 2018, no initiatives taken for out-of-country voting. Debate on the issue when polls near seems to be more for public consumption. Click here to read…

Sublimation of the subaltern- Kathmandu Post

Chasing the chimaera of emancipation through political ideologies is exhausting and meaningless. Click here to read…

‘Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train’ arriving in Janakpur on Thursday- Republica

The ‘Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train’ carrying Indian tourists on board is arriving in Janakpurdham on June 23.
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/bharat-gaurav-tourist-train-arriving-in-janakpur-on-thursday/” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Pakistan

‘Lifeline’ IMF deal secured: Dawn

In a breakthrough, Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday night reached an understanding on the federal budget for 2022-23, leading to revival of the extended fund facility (EFF) after authorities committed to generate Rs436 billion more taxes and increase petroleum levy gradually up to Rs50 per litre. Click here to read…

EU mission in Islamabad to decide on GSP+ status: The Express Tribune

The European Union’s Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP +) monitoring mission has reached Pakistan to review the country’s compliance with its requirements in order to ensure extension of the GSP+ status. Click here to read…

Rupee continues free fall as USD hits Rs212: The Express Tribune

The rupee has crossed the threshold of 212 for the first time despite Finance Minister Miftah Ismail’s assurance on Monday that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme would resume “in a day or two”.Click here to read…

Important progress made over budget 2022-23: IMF: The News

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday confirmed that a breakthrough has been achieved in talks with Pakistan for the revival of the $6 billion loan facility stalled since months due to policy breaches by the previous government. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

2 killed, 28 wounded in Nangarhar explosion- Pajhwok News

Two civilians were killed and 28 others wounded as a result of an explosion in the Shinwari district of eastern Nangarhar province. Click here to read…

MoRR Calls on UNHCR to Address Problems of Refugees- Tolo News

Talking to the gathering held to mark World Refugee Day, the acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, Khalil Rahman Haqqani, expressed concerns over the mistreatment of Afghan refugees abroad. Click here to read…

Islamic Emirate Says Situation of Afghans in Iran has Improved- Tolo News

The situation of Afghan refugees has become better since negotiations were conducted between the Islamic Emirate and Iranian officials, the Foreign ministry announced. Click here to read…

Senior Delegation from Uzbekistan Visits Afghanistan- Tolo News

A senior delegation of Uzbekistan, led by the country’s National Security Advisor Abdul Aziz Kamilov, visited Afghanistan and met with several leaders of the Islamic Emirate. Click here to read…

Durand Line Fencing Has Divided Families: Residents- Tolo News

The residents living along the Durand Line in Naari district in Kunar province said that the fencing erected by the Pakistani military has separated the relatives living on either side of the line. Click here to read…

U.S. to Decide Whether Extend Taliban Travel Ban- Khaama Press

Former US President Donald Trump lifted travel sanctions on the Islamic Emirate’s leaders for a temporary period of time, which will end on Monday, to facilitate peace negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban. Click here to read…

Employees at an Airport in Southern Afghanistan Resign Due to Non-Payment of Their Salaries- Khaama Press

Due to non-payment of salary and remuneration, the staff at the Ahmad Shah Baba International Airport in southern Afghanistan’s Kandahar province have resigned. Click here to read…

Explosion in Eastern Afghanistan Kills Two and Injures At Least Twenty-Eight People Khaama Press

A huge explosion in Nangarhar province, the east of Afghanistan, killed two people and wounded at least 28 others present at the explosion site, according to the local sources. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Universal pension: Govt Okays draft act- The Daily Star

The cabinet yesterday gave the final approval to the draft of Universal Pension Management Act, 2022. Click here to read…

Padma Bridge: Envoys laud Sheikh Hasina- The Daily Star

Three foreign envoys in Dhaka have lauded Bangladesh for constructing the Padma Bridge. Click here to read…

Farmers forced to sell paddy at low price- The Daily Star

Bikas Mandol of Sikdermollic village in Pirojpur Sadar upazila cultivated Boro paddy on his one bigha land spending over Tk 20,000, which he took on credit from different people and NGOs. Click here to read…

PM Hasina’s mango diplomacy: Now Mamata gets 1 tonne Amrapali after Modi, Kovind- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sent seasonal fruit mango as gift to India’s West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Tourism Levy Bill to re-promote Bhutan as a destination for exclusive tourism- BBS

The Finance Minister introduced the Tourism Levy Bill in the National Assembly today. The Bill aims to re-promote Bhutan as a destination for exclusive tourism. Click here to read…

Tourism Levy Bill proposes USD 200 a day in SDF- Kuensel

Tourists visiting Bhutan shall be liable to pay a sustainable development fund (SDF) of USD 200 per night. Click here to read…

His Majesty returns from tour of southern dzongkhags- Kuensel

His Majesty The King arrived in Thimphu yesterday, following a Royal tour of the Southern dzongkhags. During the tour, His Majesty visited Punakha, Wangduephodrang, Tsirang, Sarpang, Phuentsholing and Samtse. Click here to read…

National CSI Bank Board Director detained for issuing 5 mn loan to son- The Bhutanese

The Board Director of the National Cottage and Small Industries Development Bank Limited (NCSIDBL) Tshewang Tashi, who is the Deputy Chief Planning Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests (MoAF) was detained last week by the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC). Click here to read…

Her Majesty The Queen inaugurates the Pema Center Secretariat for Mental Health- The Bhutanese

On the Royal Command of Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, the Pema Center Secretariat, an agency to spearhead our national response for mental health, has been established. Click here to read…

Airlines hit hardest by Nepal’s fuel hike- Nepali Times

Nepal Oil Corporation’s announcement on Sunday of an across the board increase in fuel prices is expected to have a knock-on effect on inflation, aviation and tourism and on prospects of an economic rebound post-pandemic. Click here to read…

Maldives

A floating city in the Maldives begins to take shape: CNN

Acity is rising from the waters of the Indian Ocean. In a turquoise lagoon, just 10 minutes by boat from Male, the Maldivian capital, a floating city, big enough to house 20,000 people, is being constructed. Click here to read…

Permit to hold ‘Yoga Day’ event at Rasfannu cancelled, National Stadium chosen as new location: The Sun

Male’ City Council, on Monday, has cancelled the permit issued to hold ‘Yoga Day’ event at Rasfannu; an event being hosted by Youth Ministry in collaboration with Indian Cultural Centre. Click here to read…

Nepal

Unified Socialist Politburo and Central Committee meeting in Kathmandu- Republica

The meeting of the Politburo and Central Committee of the CPN (Unified Socialist) is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu on June 24 and 25. Click here to read…

Government decides to stay away from SPP- Kathmandu Post

Confusion remains though whether Nepal is indeed part of the US scheme and how it can get out of it. Click here to read…

Inflation-ridden Nepalis hit by record hike in petroleum prices- Kathmandu Post

Rising inflation has played havoc with household budgets causing anguish to the provider of the family, experts say. Click here to read…

Petrol, diesel per litre near Rs 200 as Oil Corporation hikes fuel prices heavily- Himalayan Post

Nepal Oil Corporation has heavily revised the price of fuels, leading to an all-time record high cost of petrol, diesel and kerosene in the country. Click here to read…

Nepal for early seat sharing talks- Himalayan Post

CPN (Unified Socialist) Chair Madhav Kumar Nepal today said the current coalition would remain intact till the upcoming provincial and parliamentary elections and the alliance partners would try to keep the alliance intact even after the polls. Click here to read…

Myanmar

What Message Did Myanmar Military Get From Massive Rohingya Rally? – Eurasia Review

International media attention has returned to Rohingya refugee repatriation to Myanmar from Bangladesh this week following a news. On Sunday (June 19 2022), tens of thousands of Rohingya refugees protested in Bangladesh, demanding their repatriation to Myanmar, where they fled a deadly military crackdown five years ago. Click here to read…

Digital contention in post-coup Myanmar – New Mandala

In the digital manifestation of coup-related contention in Myanmar, the military both projects an image of itself as championing “true democracy” and reframes resistance activities as destructive for political stability. Click here to read…

Hell Hounds Are Loose in Myanmar; Who Can Stop Them? – The Irrawaddy

The debate over what to call the Myanmar military—while it might seem of secondary importance—is in fact timely and appropriate, as every day brings reports of fresh brutality and atrocities committed by the regime against its own noncombatant civilians. Click here to read…

Local leader of Myanmar military’s proxy party shot dead in southern Shan State – Myanmar Now

The vice chair of a local branch of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) was shot and killed in southern Shan State’s Pindaya Township on Saturday, local sources reported. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Australia provides emergency food assistance to crisis-hit Sri Lanka: Business Standard

Australia will provide a 22 million Australian dollar for emergency food assistance to economic crisis hit Sri Lanka, a release said. Click here to read…

Sri Lankan Cabinet passes 21st Amendment aimed at cutting President’s power: Business Standard

Sri Lankan cabinet on Monday passed the 21st Amendment to the Constitution aimed at empowering Parliament over the executive presidentClick here to read…

Adani Group to further expand footprint in Sri Lanka: Tribune India

The Adani Group plans to further expand its operations in Sri Lanka through Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) which bagged a 500 MW wind and solar plant project. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Miftah tries to reassure country as clock ticks on IMF deal: Dawn

Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on Monday sounded confident about reaching an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a day or so for the revival of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and vowed to provide income tax relief to those with up to Rs1.2 million annual earnings. Click here to read…

Talks with TTP yet to conclude as Parliamentary NSC to discuss progress: The Express Tribune

Talks between Pakistan and the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have not yet been concluded as contrary to reports the two sides have yet to find a common ground on key issues. Click here to read…

Refineries’ shutdown imminent as LC crisis deepens: The News

Refineries once again shook up the government to resolve their lingering trade credit issues as in the absence of crude oil imports the industry was facing a shutdown next month, resulting in an acute shortage of petroleum products, The News learnt on Monday. Click here to read…

Punjab, Sindh, KP: ECP seeks army’s help in by-polls, LG elections: The News

In a major development, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Monday wrote to Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa for complete assistance in the form of security in the conduct of by-elections and local government polls in Punjab and Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. 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

Africa: Requiem for a continent

Every year on May 25, the world celebrates Africa Day. It is to commemorate May 25, 1963, when 30 independent African leaders signed the founding charter of the OAU (Organization of African Unity). Click here to read…

Africa Day 2022: An Odyssey of a Continent

Every year on May 25, the world celebrates Africa Day. On May 25 1963, 30 independent African leaders signed the founding charter of the OAU (Organization of African Unity). Click here to read…

Kenya’s political titans gear up for electoral fight

After 10 years of outgoing president Uhuru Kenyatta’s rule, a faltering economy and rising prices, shopkeeper Betty Kagwiria wants to vote for change in this year’s elections in Kenya. Click here to read…

NEWS

CHOGM 2022: Commonwealth heads to assemble in Rwanda

From June 20 to 27, Rwanda will host the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). What exactly is the Commonwealth? What is the point of this international summit? Click here to read…

Ethiopian government and Tigrayan forces move towards negotiations

The Ethiopian government has formed a committee to negotiate with forces from the Tigray region, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said in a televised speech to parliament on Tuesday. Click here to read…

Kenya’s political titans gear up for electoral fight

After 10 years of outgoing president Uhuru Kenyatta’s rule, a faltering economy and rising prices, shopkeeper Betty Kagwiria wants to vote for change in this year’s elections in Kenya. Click here to read…

Somali president nominates Hamza Abdi Barre as prime minister

Somalia’s president has nominated Hamza Abdi Barre, a former chairman of the Jubbaland state election commission, as prime minister. Click here to read…

Voters head to polls in Nigeria’s key local election

Voters in Nigeria’s Ekiti state have started casting their ballots to elect a new governor in what could be a bellwether for who wins next year’s presidential election. Click here to read…

Tunisians protest against constitution referendum as opposition grows

Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Tunis on Saturday in opposition to a referendum on a new constitution called by President Kais Saied that would cement his hold on power. Click here to read…

South Sudan’s President hails bilateral relations with Israel

South Sudan President Salva Kiir on Wednesday held discussions with the Israeli ambassador to the country, Gershon Kedar during which he hailed the strong bilateral relations between the two countries. Click here to read…

Is Uganda heading for a dynastic succession?

He is the son of the president and a vainglorious Twitter user. He is also a belligerent general whose soldiers are accused of kidnapping and torturing opponents. Click here to read…

‘Farmgate’ threatens Cyril Ramaphosa’s South Africa re-election bid

The South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, is facing the most serious personal challenge of his four years in power after claims he tried to cover up the theft of millions of US dollars hidden at his game farm. Click here to read…

Algeria is increasingly aligned with Russia, Spanish minister says

Algeria’s decision to suspend a friendship treaty with Spain last week was not surprising because Algiers is increasingly aligning itself with RussiaClick here to read…

What DRC brings to the EAC table

The DR Congo, a sub-Sahara’s largest country, became the seventh member state of the East African Community (EAC) on March 29, joining Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Click here to read…

IMF bailout alone will not solve Zambia’s debt crisis

As Zambia began talks with its creditors to resolve its debt crisis, Hannah Ryder, the CEO of China-based African consultancy Development Reimagined, spoke to African Business about the country’s chances of obtaining an IMF bailout and its prospects for economic growth. Click here to read…

Egypt boosts ties with Tanzania amid ongoing Nile dam dispute

Egypt is boosting ties with the Nile Basin countries while Ethiopia inches toward the third filling of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam without an agreement with the downstream countries. Click here to read…

Rights groups condemn Tanzanian police violence against Maasai

Human rights organisations have accused Tanzanian police of using violence to evict members of the Masaai Indigenous community in Loliondo, in the country’s northern district of Ngorongoro. Click here to read…

Russian Mercenaries in Mali Base Days After France Pullout: Sources

Russian mercenaries arrived in the Malian town of Menaka on Wednesday just days after France’s military pullout from the site, sources briefed on the matter told AFP. Click here to read…

U.K. vows more Rwanda deportation flights after legal setback

The British government vowed Wednesday to organize more flights to deport asylum-seekers to Rwanda, after a last-minute court judgment grounded the first plane due to take off under the contentious policy. Click here to read…

Gambia: Officials Accused of Crimes Under Jammeh to Be Suspended

The Gambian government has announced this week that it would order suspensions for state employees accused of crimes under the former Yahya Jammeh regime, one of the recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC). Click here to read…

State controls just 60 percent of Burkina Faso: ECOWAS mediator

Authorities in Burkina Faso control just 60 percent of the country and the remaining territory is outside state control, a mediator from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has said. Click here to read…

DRC closes Rwanda border after soldier is shot dead during attack

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has closed its border with Rwanda after a Congolese soldier was shot dead while attacking border guards inside Rwandan territory. Click here to read…

France says it has captured Islamic State bigwig in Mali

French troops operating at the border between Mali and Niger have arrested a senior figure of the Islamic State in Greater Sahara (ISGS) armed group, authorities in Paris have said. Click here to read…

Libya Has Another Chance at Democracy

Libya was founded as a democracy. It is not too late to be a democracy again. Click here to read…

Clashes in Sudan’s Darfur Kill More Than 100

Clashes in Sudan’s Darfur between Arab and non-Arab groups have killed more than 100 people, adding to a toll of hundreds in the region over recent months. Click here to read…

Forty fighters ‘neutralised’ in drone strikes in Niger

French drone strikes have killed nearly 40 fighters earlier travelling on motorcycles near Niger’s border with Burkina Faso, France’s military said on Thursday. Click here to read…

Kenya calls for immediate deployment of regional force to eastern Congo

Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday called for the immediate deployment of a new regional military force to try to stop rebel violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Click here to read…

Thousands flee as jihadist attacks resume in Mozambique

At least seven people have died in a spate of jihadist-related violence in northern Mozambique, local sources said Tuesday, as the UN said 10 000 people had fled their homes. Click here to read…

Somalia: Security Forces Kill Nearly 70 Al-Shabab Terrorists In Galmudug Region

Somalia’s state forces, on Friday, killed 67 Al-Shabab terrorists and inflicted injuries on several others. The clashes happened in the Galhaduud. Click here to read…

One-third of Sudan’s population faces hunger crisis: UN

Aid groups warn food insecurity may dramatically increase to ‘unprecedented levels’ and lead to more conflict and displacement unless Sudan receives ‘robust agriculture support’. Click here to read…

Egypt localizes environment-friendly transport ahead of COP27

Egypt has developed a future strategy to introduce electric means of transport into public transport. This comes as the state is only 138 days away from hosting the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, referred to as (COP27). Click here to read…

In Zimbabwe, reporter’s conviction sparks fears of renewed abuse

For the first time in more than a year, Jeffrey Moyo, reporter for The New York Times in Zimbabwe, is breathing rather easy. Click here to read…

Urgent support needed for 14,000 who fled following Burkina Faso massacre

In Burkina Faso, UN humanitarians on Friday appealed to the international community for help, after attacks by armed groups forced thousands to flee their homes in the east of the country. Click here to read…

Spain Resumes Operation Crossing the Strait with Morocco

Following a closure that lasted for two years, Spain has yesterday resumed Operation Crossing the Strait, which will allow movement between the continent of Europe and Africa for three months. Click here to read…

Cameroon, Central African Republic Agree to Demarcate Border

Cameroon and the Central African Republic have agreed to demarcate several hundred kilometers of their shared border. Click here to read…

Chad rebels threaten to pull out of Doha talks

Chad rebels due to take part in landmark talks with opposition groups and the military government on Saturday threatened to pull out citing “provocations and attempted aggression” by the government. Click here to read…

Zimbabwe breaks ground on $300 million lithium project

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa oversaw the groundbreaking of a 300 million U.S. dollar spodumene project at the Bikita Minerals mine. It’s hoped the spodumene project will ramp up lithium production and extend the life of Zimbabwe’s oldest mine. Click here to read…

Angola to become Germany’s first supplier of green hydrogen
Angola is set to become Germany’s first supplier of green hydrogen from renewable energy after its state-owned energy company Sonangol signed a letter of intent to build a factory with two German engineering firms on WednesdayClick here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

African Union is India’s 4th largest trading partner

The African Union is India’s fourth largest trading partner after the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates, propped up by diversification in Indian exports to the continent. Click here to read…

Egypt looks to India for wheat to make up losses from Ukraine war

A potential deal between Egypt and India to import 500,000 tons of Indian wheat in exchange for Egyptian fertilizers is in the works amid ongoing global wheat shortages. Click here to read…

India, Tanzania hold foreign office consultations

India and Tanzania on Thursday reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations including political, economic and defence at the second round of Foreign Office Consultations between the two countries. Click here to read…

Vedanta starts iron ore mining in Liberia via subsidiary

Vedanta Iron & Steel sector has ventured into International Iron ore mining operations in Liberia, West Africa through its subsidiary Western Cluster Limited (WCL). Click here to read…

BCG Digital Ventures Launches New Innovation Centers in India and Morocco

BCG Digital Ventures (BCGDV), the corporate innovation and business-building arm of Boston Consulting Group (BCG), is opening innovation centers in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Casablanca. Click here to read…

Lessons for India: How Benin got its bronzes back

Formal requests began in the 1960s and were ignored. Nigeria persisted, lobbied the international community, kept the pressure up. Now, countries one by one are returning the treasures. Click here to read…

Muslim Conference of Ghana demands apology from India over insulting comments by two politicians

The National Muslim Conference of Ghana has joined Muslims across the world to call on the Indian government to render an unconditional apology for insulting comments made by two political figures. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

UK Not Supporting Violent Actors Against Kabul: Shorter: Tolo News

The UK does not support anyone, including Afghan nationals, seeking to achieve political change through violence, or any activity inciting violence for political purposes in Afghanistan, the Chargé d’Affaires at the UK Mission to Afghanistan in Doha, Hugo Shorter said. Click here to read…

Kabul Wants Good Relations with Neighbors, World: Stanekzai: Tolo News

Abbas Stanekzai, the political deputy of the Foreign Minisitry, stated that Kabul wants good relations with its neighbors as well as the world, at a gathering titled “The Future of Afghanistan’s Relations with Neighboring Countries” which was organized by the Afghanistan International Strategic Studies Center (AISSC). Click here to read…

“Afghan Invest” Company Inaugurates with a $250M Capital in Kabul: The Khaama Press

According to the state-run Bakhtar News Agency’s report, the newly inaugurated company is established with an investment of $250 million.The company presently has 13 investors from various regions of Afghanistan, but the number of the investors, according to the sources, is expected to grow to 50. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Rohingya return: Talks get nowhere- The Daily Star

Nearly five years into the largest Rohingya influx, the process of repatriation remains confined only to talks with the international funding declining for the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals. Click here to read…

Bangladesh, India for strengthening cooperation in water management, cyber, food security- The Daily Star

Bangladesh and India yesterday (June 19, 2022) agreed to work closely together to further strengthen cooperation in the areas of common rivers and water resources management and pledged to expand collaboration in cyber security, IT and food security. Click here to read…

‘Let’s go home; let’s go to Myanmar’- The Daily Star

Thousands of Rohingyas yesterday held a rally in Ukhia of Cox’s Bazar — to tell the world that they want to go back to their homeland Myanmar, marking World Refugee Day. Click here to read…

Dhaka may get flooded too- The Daily Star

In the context of Sylhet and Sunamganj’s flood situation, Local Government and Rural Development and Co-operatives (LGRD) Minister Md Tazul Islam yesterday said even the capital, especially its low-lying areas, could inundate rapidly due to heavy rainfall and water from upstream. Click here to read…

All set for grand opening- The Daily Star

No truck or covered van would be allowed to operate on highways connected to the Padma Bridge — from the morning of June 24 to that of June 26 — to facilitate the inauguration of the Bridge on June 25. Click here to read…

Flood damaged Aush paddy of 22,000 hectares cropland so far- The Daily Star

About 22,000 hectares cropland of Aush paddy have been damaged so far due to recent flood situation in the country, Agriculture Minister Abdur Razzaque said yesterday. Click here to read…

Jatiya Party opposes use of EVMs in national election- The Daily Star

Main opposition in the parliament Jatiya Party today said that they do not want national election using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Click here to read…

Bhutan

Walk the Talk: Reduce salt, beat NCDs- BBS

The Bhutan Youth Development Fund in collaboration with the Health Ministry and the World Health Organization observed the Walk the Talk event for the first time today. It is to create awareness on the importance of physical activity and dietary habits with a focus on reducing salt consumption. Click here to read…

Sweeping cuts of Parliament budget impacts committee duties- Kuensel

With reduced budget allocation, the National Assembly (NA) secretariat had to seek financial support from external donors to facilitate committee meetings, public consultation and review. Click here to read…

ACC detains three immigration officials in P’ling for alleged embezzlement- Kuensel

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is currently investigating an alleged case of embezzlement at the Phuentsholing immigration office. Click here to read…

Maldives

SOEs are instrumental in implementing govt. policies: The Sun

Vice President Faisal Naseem said on Sunday that state-owned enterprises (SOEs) were instrumental in implementing the government’s policies and alleviating the difficulties facing atolls. Click here to read…

Covid fatalities reach 300 in Maldives: Edition Mv

Health Protection Agency (HPA) said a 66 year old Maldivian man being treated for Covid in Orange Facility in Hulhumale’ passed away today. The most recent Covid death prior to this was on May 26. A 71 year old Maldivian man had passed away in Addu. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Insurgents from India add fuel to fire in Myanmar’s restive north – Asia Nikkei

Violence is spiraling in northern Myanmar, as ethnic Chin rebels fight not only the country’s military regime but also armed insurgent groups from India. Click here to read…

Situation critical in Myanmar with mounting resistance to military junta – TBS News

Situation has gone critical behind the Bamboo Curtain in Myanmar with anti-military junta forces intensifying their operations across the country and sentiments against China running high for exploiting mineral reserves and supporting the military dictatorship. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Military Targeting Children – Persecution.org

In the intervening year and a half, the Buddhist nationalist junta has disproportionately targeted religious minorities, including Christians, in order to suppress the opposing people’s defense forces. According to a recently released UN report, the military junta has also brutally attacked and killed hundreds of childrenClick here to read…

Myanmar junta arrests 10 civilians following AA arrest of soldier in Rakhine – Mizzima

In what appears to be a tit-for-tat action, the Myanmar junta military arrested 10 civilians in Ponnagyun Township in Rakhine State on 16 June. The action happened after the Arakan Army (AA) arrested a Military Council soldier at a construction materials store near Sanpya Ward in Ponnagyun Township at around 3 p.m. Click here to read…

Post junta soldier’s arrest civilians detained by the military – Narinjara

Dozens of civilians were reportedly detained by the military personnel after the Arakan Army (AA) arrested one junta soldier on 16 June in Ponna Kyun, a few miles north of Sittwe, the capital city of Rakhine State. Till Saturday morning, more than 30 local people were picked up near Aye Zedi pagoda and the sports school, said an eyewitness. Click here to read…

Nepal

Govt to evaluate economic development of local levels- Himalayan Times

The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration has issued the ‘Local Economic Development Evaluation Procedure, 2022’ to assist the local governments in promoting local economic development through evaluation of overall aspects in their respective areas. Click here to read…

Deuba skips House committee meeting. Lawmakers decide to summon him again- Kathmandu Post

Nepal’s prime ministers often ignore such calls, just as questions remain about parliamentary panels also. Click here to read…

Visiting US general urges Nepal to join State Partnership Program, promises aid- Kathmandu Post

Prime Minister Deuba and Nepal Army chief Sharma want political consensus before Nepal joins the program, a component of the Indo-Pacific Strategy, officials say. Click here to read…

Holidays at whim: That’s the way for local governments- Kathmandu Post

Local units often come up with own ways of declaring holidays, at times with reasons that defy logic. Click here to read…

Potential foreign investors put off by Nepal’s lax law enforcement- Kathmandu Post

FDI pledges in IT sector plunged 409 percent year-on-year in the first 11 months of the current fiscal year ended mid-June. Click here to read…

New provision makes it mandatory for 34 aircrafts to night-stop park outside Kathmandu- Republica

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has unveiled a mandatory provision for the night-stop parking to 34 aircrafts including 14 helicopters outside Kathmandu Valley citing lack of sufficient space at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Click here to read…

National Assembly members for common stand on SPP- Republica
National Assembly members have stressed that both the ruling and opposition parties must have a common stand on the US’ State Partnership Program (SPP). Click here to read…

What goes on in Nepal’s elections- Nepali Times

A poll observer in Kaski in both 2017 and 2022 compares the May local polls to previous one. Click here to read…

Pakistan

No-deal-yet-with-imf-for-revival-of-loan-programme: Dawn

Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have not yet been able to reach close to a staff-level agreement for revival of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), leaving authorities in a tight spot to bridge the gap and get the updated federal budget for the fiscal year 2022-23 passed by the National Assembly. Click here to read…

PTI stages nationwide protests against inflation: The Express Tribune

Large screens were installed at major protest venues for Imran Khan’s virtual address with local party leaders galvanising rallies with speeches and slogans against the “imported government”.Click here to read…

PAKISTAN PAYS A RUSSIAN PRICE: The Express Tribune

Banning Russian energy is directly proportional to increasing LNG demand in the EU and US. Meaning no cheaper LNG for Pakistan; an idea which Pakistan worked on to get cheap energy. It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan spends roughly $100 million for a single LNG cargo from the spot market, a record for the cash-strapped country. But, what’s a spot market? Let’s discuss about spot market later in the piece. Click here to read…

Hold polls or face anarchy, Imran addresses from home: The News

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan warned that any bid to rig elections would push the country towards anarchy as PTI activists and supporters took to the streets on Sunday night in almost all the major cities of the country against the runaway inflation, on the call of the party chairman. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Envoys of US & UN urge Sri Lanka’s security forces to understand people’s frustration: Times Now News

The appeal from the two envoys came a day after a clash between people and army personnel in a queue for fuel in Vishvamadu, Mullaitivu. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka troops open fire as protest over fuel turns to riot: Aljazeera

Sri Lanka’s military opened fire to contain rioting at a fuel station as unprecedented queues for petrol and diesel were seen across the bankrupt country, officials said. Click here to read…

Where does China, US aid-talk leave India?: First Post

Colombo-based envoys of China and the US, Qi Zhenhong and Julie Chung, met recently. At their meeting, the two ambassadors discussed common approaches to an economic recovery plan for the host nation. Click here to read…

Is Sri Lanka Seeking Russia’s Help Amid Oil Shortage?: NDTV

Sri Lanka has reached out to several companies suggested by Russia’s embassy in Colombo to buy crude oil, Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said on Sunday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Kabul Struggling with High Fuel Prices, Municipality Imposes Price Cap: Tolo News

The price of fuel, and also the price of taxi fares, have surged, causing a strain for many who are struggling to make ends meet amid an economic crisis. The taxi drivers said that the price of one liter of diesel is 100 Afs, which caused a surge in the taxi fare as well. Click here to read…

Stanekzai Meets Save the Children Official Visiting Kabul: Tolo News

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sher Mohammad Abas Stanekzai, met with the International Program Director of Save the Children, Nora Ingdal, and her accompanying delegation. The delegation of Save the Children told TOLOnews that Stanekzai assured them that children’s access to education and health facilities is the priority of the Islamic Emirate. Click here to read…

The Taliban Claims Killing a Prominent ISIL Commander: The Khaama Press

In an operation by the Taliban security forces in Kabul province’s Bagrami district, a key ISIL commander was killed and another was arrested, according to Taliban officials. Click here to read…

UN: Millions of Afghans Require Immediate Assistance: The Khaama Press

A senior UNHCR official during her visit to Kabul stated that millions of people in Afghanistan had been displaced and needed immediate assistance. On Sunday, UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner Kelly Clements, with a delegation, visited KabulClick here to read…
Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Projects delayed for poor preparations, coordination- The Daily Star

About 76 percent of the government officials involved with preparing, processing and evaluating development projects think the projects get approved without an adequate feasibility study and stakeholder consultations, found recent research. Click here to read…

Climate Change: Learning to be resilient- The Daily Star

Many people, particularly rural women of 13 districts, have been learning how to be resilient against climate change through a programme titled “REECALL”, led by Oxfam in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Why only 25 Bangladeshi agencies allowed- The Daily Star

A Malaysian MP and two migrant rights bodies have urged Human Resources Minister M Saravanan to explain his decision for allowing only 25 Bangladeshi agencies to recruit workers for Malaysia, reported Malaysian daily Malay Mail yesterday. Click here to read…

Russian employee of Rooppur nuke plant dies- The Daily Star

Another Russian national working in Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project died in Pabna’s Ishwardi upazila, police said yesterday. Click here to read…

4th Covid-19 vaccine dose free for opposition MPs: Health Minister- The Daily Star

Health Minister Zahid Maleque today said the opposition lawmakers will be provided with fourth dose of Covid-19 vaccine for free. Click here to read…

“India’s citizenship act can’t ease Bangladeshi Hindus’ ordeals”- The Daily Star

A prominent leader of Bangladesh’s Hindu community has said the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in India is not being helpful to the Hindus in Bangladesh in overcoming the ordeals they are facing, the Hindustan Times reported. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Govt. is exploring more hydropower projects- Bhutan Times

The annual budget report for Financial Year (FY) 2022-23, which was tabled by Finance Minister Namgay Tshering in the National Assembly on 6 June, states the government is exploring and developing more hydropower projects for which various studies have been initiated. Click here to read…

NA repeals three sections under the Forest and Nature Conservation Bill- BBS

The National Assembly continued their deliberations on the Forest and Nature Conservation Bill today. The house decided to repeal three sections regarding Forestry officials’ power to seize, confiscate livestock, vehicles, equipment and machinery used during forest offences, and conditions on the allotment of timber from State Reserved Forest Land along the roads. Click here to read…

Maldives

“China loans are not debt traps”: Avas MV

Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer has said no loans borrowed from foreign parties put state assets at risk of mortgage. He made the statement while speaking at the Parliament’s Public Finance Committee on Monday. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar’s multidimensional crises have ‘deepened and expanded dramatically’ – UN News

Noeleen Heyzer said that since she took up the job six months ago, Myanmar has “continued to descend into profound and widespread conflict”. Already one of the world’s largest refugee emergencies, she reminded that multidimensional crises there have left over one million internally displaced people (IDPs) across the country with “serious regional and international ramifications”. Click here to read…

Over 300 Myanmar Military Troops Killed in Karen State in May: KNU – The Irrawaddy

Some 303 junta troops and members of the pro-regime Border Guard Force (BGF) were killed in 448 clashes with ethnic Karen fighters in southeast Myanmar’s Karen State in May, taking the total death toll among junta forces in Karen State in the first five months of the year to about 1,800. Click here to read…

Nearly 90 Myanmar Junta Soldiers Killed in Clashes With Resistance in North – The Irrawaddy

Several hours-long intense shootouts between the military detachment of Infantry Battalion 415 and the combined forces of the Kachin Region People’s Defense Force-Myohla and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) broke out near a village in Shwegu Township, Kachin State on SundayClick here to read…

Kyaukphyu duo accused of raising funds for AA face incitement charge – BNI Online

A man and woman in Kyaukphyu who were detained on suspicion of raising funds for the Arakan Army (AA) have been charged with incitement under Section 505(a) of the Penal Code. Lieutenant Ye Thet Zaw from a Kyaukphyu-based military battalion on Friday filed a lawsuit against the pair at the township court, and the plaintiff will be questioned at a hearing on June 23, a lawyer with Legal Remedy Group (Kyaukphyu branch) told DMG. Click here to read…

Junta Watch: Defying the World on Executions; Splashing Cash While Urging Frugality; and More – The Irrawaddy

Min Aung Hlaing continues to squander public funds on vanity projects; most recently in an attempt to portray himself as the country’s supreme sports patron. On June 3, he awarded more than 1.32 billion kyats (over US$700,000) to Myanmar athletes who won medals at the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam in May—quite a sum considering Myanmar finished seventh in a region with just 11 countries. Click here to read…

Nepal

House directs govt to ensure fertilisers for farmers- Himalayan Times

The House of Representatives today unanimously passed a special motion directing the government to provide fertilisers to farmers at the earliest. Click here to read…

LSP delegation reminds PM of party demands- Himalayan Times

A delegation of Loktantrik Samajbadi Party today called on Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba to remind the latter about the party’s demands. The delegation was led by party chair Mahantha Thakur. Click here to read…

Call to amend Foreign Employment Policy- Himalayan Times

Civil society members have said that the Foreign Employment Policy 2012 needs to be amended to ensure safe, orderly, and regular migration of Nepali workers. Click here to read…

Finance minister in dock again ‘for using outsiders’ to tweak taxes- Kathmandu Post

Lawmakers demand clarification from Sharma and investigation into allegations that he involved unauthorised people in the budget-making process. Click here to read…

‘Truth-seeking should be the first priority of the transitional justice process’- Kathmandu Post

Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Govinda Bandi says there is a consensus among stakeholders that there can be no amnesty in cases of serious violations of human rights. Click here to read…

Cyber security bill to be prepared after consultation with stakeholders- Republica

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Gyanendra Bahadur Karki has said a ‘Bill on Cyber Security’ will be finalized on the basis of recommendations from the stakeholder organizations and experts. Click here to read…

US State Partnership Program: Here’s the draft of the deal that lets US personnel stay in Nepal indefinitely- Online Khabar

The United States government has floated a proposal for a State Partnership Program to be signed between the US Department of Defense and the Nepali Ministry of Defence that also includes letting some members of the US security forces stay in Nepal for an indefinite period. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

US, China pledge help to Sri Lanka: Tribune India

In a significant development, the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong met his US counterpart Julie Chung here on Monday. Click here to read…

Blinken discusses economic, political challenges with Sri Lanka’s PM: Business Standard

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday (local time) discussed the current economic and political challenges with Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka official who alleged pressure to award project to Adani Group resigns: Indian Express

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had “pressured” President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to award a power project to the Adani Group, the Chairman of Sri Lanka’s Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), M M C Ferdinando, resigned on Monday. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Punjab budget session put off after ‘day-long drama’: Dawn

The Punjab Assembly on Monday witnessed a daylong drama as Speaker Chaudhry Parvez Elahi refused to conduct the session and allow the provincial budget to be presented, demanding the inspector general of police (IGP) first tender an apology to him and all cases lodged against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and PML-Q workers and parliamentarians be withdrawn. Click here to read…

US all set to rebuild ties: ambassador: Dawn

Ambassador Blome, who arrived in Pakistan late last month, has taken over the charge of the US mission at a time of unique challenges and opportunities. Though anti-American sentiments run deep in Pakistani society, the feelings got inflamed after former prime minister Imran Khan alleged that he was ousted through a US conspiracy for regime change and ran a mass campaign calling for ‘freedom’ from ‘slaves of foreign powers’. Click here to read…

Pakistan to default if subsidies not abolished till July: Miftah: The Express Tribune

Finance Minister Miftah Ismail has said abolishing the subsidies on petroleum products till July was imperative to prevent the country from going bankruptcy, hinting at another increase in the prices of fuel that whizzed past records earlier this month. Click here to read…

Diesel may jump Rs53, petrol Rs18/litre: The News

The prices of diesel and petrol may go up by Rs53 and Rs18/litre, respectively, if the government passed on the full impact of global oil markets to consumers, rolling back the subsidy completely in a push to redeem the IMF loan, industry officials said on Monday. Click here to read…

Pakistan launches diplomatic effort to get out of FATF grey list: The News

Pakistan has launched a massive diplomatic effort to get out of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, according to official sources.

Afghanistan

UN Official in Kabul to Address Afghan Refugee Issues: Tolo News

UN Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees Kelly T. Clements, during her visit to Kabul, said she will meet with Islamic Emirate officials to discuss resolving Afghan refugee issues and establishing grounds for their return to Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Two Factories Start Operating in Herat Industrial Park: Tolo News

Amid the country’s economic crisis, the private sector established two plants at Herat Industrial Park costing almost $4 million, creating tens of thousands of jobs. These factories operate in the textile and oxygen production sectors. Click here to read…

Three Explosions Occur Simultaneously in Afghanistan’s Three Provinces: The Khaama Press

Three simultaneous explosions have been reported in Afghanistan’s Badakhshan, Kunduz, and Kunar provinces, according to sources. On Sunday morning, June the 12th, an explosion took place on a vehicle carrying Taliban forces in the Kari area of Faizabad, Badakhshan province. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Reshuffle in ACC to hurt high-profile probes- The Daily Star

The recent reshuffle in the Anti-Corruption Commission would hamper investigation of many high-profile corruption cases, said officials who have been transferred. Click here to read…

Graft in Bangladeshi labour recruitment to Malaysia?- The Daily Star

After a meeting with Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Imran Ahmed on June 1, Malaysian Human Resources Minister M Saravanan said the migration cost for the Bangladeshis going to Malaysia under the new deal would be zero. Click here to read…

Jet fuel price goes up- The Daily Star

Local airlines are about to face a blow both at home and abroad as the price of jet fuel increased again in the domestic market. Click here to read…

Need to unite for int’l recognition- The Daily Star

The country will need to be united once again for international recognition of the genocide carried out by the Pakistani army during the 1971 Liberation War, said speakers at a meeting yesterday. Click here to read…

Ensure inclusive national election- The Daily Star

If the next general election is not joined by all political parties, it would not be accepted nationally and internationally, a number of former chief election commissioners, election commissioners and election officials said yesterday. Click here to read…

Move to return workers to Bahrain underway- The Daily Star

Bahrain has agreed to allow 161 stranded Bangladeshi workers back to Bahrain under a special arrangement after six months of Bangladesh’s request. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Nu 4B bond offers for public subscription- Kuensel

The government has offered a 12-year bond worth Nu 4 billion (B) for public subscriptions to be allocated using a yield-based auction, the Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) notified on June 10. Click here to read…

His Holiness the Je Khenpo appoints Tshog-ki Lopon- Kuensel

His Holiness the Je Khenpo appoints the Tshog-ki Lopon of Zhung Dratshang. Click here to read…

Govt. is exploring more hydropower projects- Bhutan Times

The annual budget report for Financial Year (FY) 2022-23, which was tabled by Finance Minister Namgay Tshering in the National Assembly on 6 June, states the government is exploring and developing more hydropower projects for which various studies have been initiated. Click here to read…

Yoga reaches RENEW-Gawaling Happy Home- Bhutan Times

Indian Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj and officials of the Embassy of India in Bhutan visited RENEW Gawaling Happy Home in Wangsisina to commemorate the celebrations of the 8th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on 9 June this week. Click here to read…

Reopening of border gates to depend on COVID-19 risk: Foreign Minister

The Member of Parliament from Khamaed Lunana during the question hour session asked the foreign minister about the country’s border reopening plans. Click here to read…

Maldives

The Maldives launches pro-India campaign on social media: Indian Express

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has initiated a social media campaign in favour of India in a bid to counter the ‘India Out’ campaign in the country. Click here to read…

Prolonged internet shut down in Paletwa puts locals in difficulties – Narinjara

In Paletwa township of Chin State, the internet has been blocked by the military council for a long time and hence the local people find it difficult to communicate accordingly. The internet service came to a halt in Paletwa locality for the first time in more than two years from June 2019 to February 2021. It was the time when the Arakan Army (AA) members clashed with the Burmese army personnel. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta to Move Forward With Trial of Australian Economist – The Diplomat

Myanmar’s military junta said yesterday that it will push ahead with the prosecution of the Australian economics professor Sean Turnell, after a military tribunal formally charged him with breaching the country’s Official Secrets Act. Click here to read…

Resistance Force Raids Army Checkpoint, Kills 13 Myanmar Junta Soldiers – The Irrawaddy

Three PDFs from Yesagyo and Myaing townships in Magwe and Salingyi Township in Sagaing Region raided a checkpoint at Sin Phyu Shin Bridge in the north of the township, said Yesagyo PDF. Click here to read…

Cambodia’s Hun Sen asks Myanmar to call off political executions – Asia Nikkei

Cambodia’s prime minister urged military-ruled Myanmar to reconsider the death sentences against four political opponents, suggesting that executing them will draw strong international condemnation and complicate efforts to restore peace to the strife-torn nation. Click here to read…

SHE TALKS PEACE: Myanmar community army – MindaNews

On “She Talks Peace,” I had an enlightening and encouraging conversation with Emma Leslie, the founder director of the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies, supporting peace processes and conflict transformation in Asia. Click here to read…

Myanmar junta can’t beat rebels, should restore democracy, U.S. diplomat says – Reuters

Myanmar’s junta likely cannot to defeat the rebels fighting its rule and should restore democracy after seizing power last year, a senior U.S. diplomat said. Click here to read…

Nepal

Deuba’s July US visit kicks up a row- Himalayan Times

CPN-UML’s Pradeep Kumar Gyawali has demanded that Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba immediately inform the House of Representatives about his impending visit to the United States of America. Speaking from the rostrum of the HoR today, he said the PM must clarify about his visit to the US. Click here to read…

Forest minister seeks collective support in conservation efforts- Himalayan Times

Minister of Forest and Environment Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav has urged the province and local governments to incorporate climate change and environment conservation-related programmes in their policies and programmes and implement them. Click here to read…

Budget sought for climate change adaptation- Himalayan Times

Lawmakers of Karnali Province have demanded that the government to bring a budget that can address the issues of climate change adaptation and social inclusion. Click here to read…

MPs from ruling parties asked not to play ‘minister’- Himalayan Times

In a meeting of the House of Representatives today, main opposition party lawmaker Bhanubhakta Dhakal has urged lawmakers representing the ruling parties not to be defensive in relation to issues raised by the opposition in the House. Click here to read…

People mulling independent runs for federal seats begin consultations- Kathmandu Post

Members of a network named ‘Swatantra Ummedwar Abhiyan’ are holding national consultations in Kathmandu on July 1 and 2. Click here to read…

Ruins of Maurya-era wall unearthed in Tilaurakot, Kapilvastu- Kathmandu Post

The recent finding is crucial to help enlist Tilaurakot in UNESCO’s world heritage list. Click here to read…

EPG was formed to remove irritants. Its report risks being a source of irritation- Kathmandu Post

Plan to unilaterally make public the report, prepared jointly be Nepali and Indian experts, is shelved for now. Click here to read…

Ministers to respond to MPs’ questions on Appropriation Bill from today- My Republica

Deliberations on Appropriation Bill, 2079 BS by the lawmakers concluded on Sunday. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka may have to buy more Russian oil: Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe: CNN

Sri Lanka may be compelled to buy more oil from Russia as the nation faces shortages amid an unprecedented economic crisis, its prime minister has said. Click here to read…

Lanka official says PM wanted Adani to get project; retracts, Gotabaya denies: Indian Express

A senior Sri Lanka official claimed before a Lankan parliamentary panel that Prime Minister Narendra Modi allegedly pressured President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to award a power project to the Adani Group. Click here to read…

There is a man-made economic crisis in Sri Lanka, says PM Ranil Wickremesinghe: WION Newes

Sri Lanka is currently going through the worst economic crisis since gaining their independence in 1948 and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe believes that it is the fault of the previous governments and the politicians. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Uncertainty, Ukraine war major risks to Pakistan’s economic outlook: Dawn

In an integrity statement to parliament required under the Public Finance Act as part of the federal budget, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail and Secretary Finance Hamed Yaqoob Sheikh have also highlighted a possible increase in expenditures because of higher subsidies and interest payments and an anticipated setback to revenue collection owing to import and demand contraction, posing substantial risks to the economic growth and sustainability of fiscal and monetary projections. Click here to read…

Pakistan, China vow to step up defence cooperation despite challenges: The Express Tribune

A high-powered Pakistani delegation comprising senior military officials from all three services – army, navy and air force – visited China from June 9 to 12 as part of the meeting of Pakistan China Joint Military Cooperation Committee (PCJMCC), which has an apex committee. Pakistan’s army chief and vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission are part of the committee. Click here to read…

Govt to review salary tax relief after IMF objection: The News

The proposed tax relief in Personal Income Tax (PIT) to the tune of Rs47 billion is totally unacceptable to the IMF and the government is left with no option but to consider bringing changes in it. Click here to read…

PTI case about prohibited funding, ECP tells IHC: The Express Tribune

The IHC, while dealing with the PTI’s plea to stop the commission from giving an immediate verdict, noted in its judgment that an ECP representative had told the court that the electoral body was carrying out proceedings against the party under sub-rule 6 of the Rules of Political Parties 2002. 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

Decoding The Gambian Voting System – Keep It Simple

On 4th December 2021, The Gambia, the smallest country in mainland Africa, held its presidential election. The successful election and transfer of power were a powerful message toward Gambia’s successful transition into a democratic society. Click here to read…

NEWS

New Somali President Inaugurated, Warns of Famine

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was inaugurated as the 10th president of Somalia Thursday in a colorful ceremony attended by hundreds of people, including the leaders of Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti. Click here to read…

Mozambique elected to serve on UN security council

Mozambique was unanimously elected Thursday as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Click here to read…

Algeria suspends trade ties with Spain over Western Sahara row

Algeria has suspended foreign trade in products and services with Spain amid an escalating dispute over the status of Western Sahara. Click here to read…

Belgian king expresses ‘deepest regrets’ to Congolese

Belgium’s King Philippe expressed his “deepest regrets” for his nation’s abuses in its former colony Congo, telling lawmakers Wednesday on his first official trip to the country that Belgian colonial rule was unjustifiable and racist. Click here to read…

Guinea Bissau President Embaló names new government

Guinea Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló on Thursday appointed a new government tasked with the preparation of the December 18 legislative election. Click here to read…

Nigeria Ruling Party Picks Tinubu as Presidential Candidate

Nigeria’s ruling party selected Bola Tinubu as its presidential candidate in elections scheduled for next February, establishing him as the frontrunner to become the next head of state in Africa’s biggest economy. Click here to read…

TikTok videos stoke tensions ahead of Kenya vote – Mozilla report
As Kenya’s general election draws closer, an increasing number of TikTok videos featuring “hate, incitement and other political disinformation” have been on the rise. Click here to read…

Ethiopia willing to resume dam talks with Egypt, Sudan

Ethiopia has expressed interest in resuming talks with Egypt and Sudan on a huge and controversial Blue Nile dam which is expected to be Africa’s largest hydroelectric power plant. Click here to read…

Talks to end Sudan crisis begin as anti-coup groups boycott

Talks aiming at ending Sudan’s ongoing political deadlock began Wednesday, the United Nations said. Click here to read…

UK judge allows first flight sending asylum-seekers to Rwanda to go ahead

The United Kingdom’s controversial plan to send asylum-seekers to Rwanda as early as next week was green-lit on Friday. Click here to read…

Djibouti Strategically Placed to Become Global ICT Center, Says Adesina

African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina met with President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti Guelleh and senior government officials. Click here to read…

Turkey Delivers Six Bayraktar Drones to Niger

Turkey delivered six Bayraktar TB2 drones to Niger earlier this month as part of an arms deal Ankara signed with Niamey in November, Radio France Internationale reported. Click here to read…

ISWAP blamed for church massacre in Nigeria

The Nigerian government has blamed an ISIL-affiliated armed group in the country for carrying out an attack that killed dozens of worshippers at a church. Click here to read…

ECOWAS unhappy with Mali’s 24-month transition decision

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) says it regrets a decision by Mali’s interim government to delay the return to civilian rule by 24 months while negotiations between the two sides were ongoing. Click here to read…

Libya oil shutdown expands with threat to close new port

A blockade of Libyan oil output by groups aligned with forces in the east of the country expanded on Thursday and Friday with the closure of two more export terminals. Click here to read…

Uganda announces discovery of huge gold deposits

Uganda has announced that it has struck a deposit of 31 million tonnes of gold ore, with extractable pure gold estimated to gross 320,000 tonnes. Click here to read…

Cape Verde, Togo to Open Consulates in Morocco’s Western Sahara

Cape Verde and Togo will will soon open general consulates in Dakhla, Western Sahara’s second largest city. Click here to read…

Tunisia’s president, opposition battle over who will fold first

Tunisia is approaching a crossroads as President Kais Saied continues to clash with growing opposition to his proposed new constitution. Click here to read…

Zimbabwe Leaning to Russia as Others Shun Moscow for Invading Ukraine

As much of the world is shunning Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, Zimbabwe this month hosted Russia’s third highest ranking official. Analysts say Zimbabwe is looking to Russia for fuel as well as cooking oil and wheat that it used to get from Ukraine, while Russia has its eyes on Zimbabwe’s minerals. Click here to read…

Chad declares food emergency as grain supplies fall

Last week, Chad declared a food emergency due to a lack of grain supplies. The landlocked African nation on Thursday urged the international community to help its population cope with rising food insecurity. Click here to read…

Soldiers kill 9 villagers in Cameroon, investigation launched

Cameroon’s government said Tuesday that a group of soldiers killed nine villagers, including an 18-month-old girl. The authorities called the incident a “manifestly disproportionate” and “hasty” response to a confrontation in the restive English speaking part of the country. Click here to read…

South Africa’s president faces probe over unreported theft

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is facing a criminal investigation after a revelation that he failed to report the theft of about $4 million in cash from his farm in northern Limpopo provinceClick here to read…

Russia launches production for Egypt’s nuclear power plant

Ukraine war not stopping Russia’s Rosatom from manufacturing equipment for Egypt’s first nuclear power plant. Click here to read…

Zambia commissions China-funded modern conference center

Aerial photo taken on May 26, 2022 shows the Kenneth Kaunda International Conference Center in Lusaka, Zambia. Zambia on Tuesday commissioned an ultra-modern international conference center financed by China. Click here to read…

Togo and Israel want to improve their cooperation, at the economic level especially

After more than 60 years of diplomatic relations, Togo and Israel have decided to actualize their cooperation. Click here to read…

Morocco is Home to Africa’s Fifth Largest Gold Reserves

Morocco’s gold reserves are estimated at 22.12 metric tonnes (mt) and are the fifth largest in Africa, according to the German database Statistica. Click here to read…

Total Energies ploughs $850 million into new Angola project

TotalEnergies and its partners have taken a final investment decision on an $850 million project in Angola to further develop the deepwater Clov complex in Block 17. Click here to read…

Why the Central African Republic adopted Bitcoin

The Central African Republic’s decision to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender came as a surprise to many, but the government argues that it will secure an independent financial future for the country. Click here to read…

Botswana tight lipped on the value of its ivory stockpile

Botswana has remained mum on the value of its ivory stockpile despite a desperate campaign to have a decade-long ban on sales by the UN Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) lifted. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

India is a “Friend in Need” says Tanzania

India and Tanzania share a multifaceted relation. Recently, Dy NSA Vikram Misri had visited the country followed by Def-Expo organised by India with participation of 16 Indian defence manufacturers. Water sector has also evolved as an important area of partnership in recent years. Click here to read…

India committed to be Gabon’s reliable partner, says Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

Venkaiah Naidu arrived in Libreville on the first leg of his three-nation tour of Gabon, Senegal and Qatar. Click here to read…

MoS Muraleedharan Meets Malawi’s VP; Explores Areas Of Cooperation Between Both Nations

After completing his visit to Zimbabwe, Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan met with the Vice-President of Malawi Dr Saulos Chilima and held a dialogue to explore various areas of cooperation between both the countries.Click here to read…

India, Ghana holds consultations on UN, multilateral issues in Accra

India and Ghana held consultations on UN and Multilateral issues level in Accra on June 9 and discussed issues on the agenda of the UNSC, including on West Africa and Sahel region, and other issues related to counter-terrorism and UN Peacekeeping. Click here to read…

India’s first wheat shipment to Egypt clears quality tests

The first Indian wheat consignment of 55,000 tonnes to Egypt has got through all government tests for quality and other parameters. Click here to read…

India announces donation of 5,000 tonnes of rice to Madagascar as humanitarian aid

India’s Ambassador to Madagascar and Comoros, Abhay Kumar, called on the Prime Minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay and announced the donation of 5,000 tonnes of rice to the island nation as humanitarian aid. Click here to read…

India-Africa Trade Council appoints Gagan Arora, Founder Vertex Group as Trade Commissioner of Nigeria Division

Gagan Arora, the Founder of Vertex Group, has been appointed as the Trade Commissioner of India-Africa Trade Council Incharge of Nigeria Division at the India-Nigeria Trade Conference held in Delhi a few days ago. Click here to read…

Outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Seychelles commends 22 completed projects

The outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Seychelles has said his tenure in the island nation has been a beautiful experience and over 20 projects have been accomplished. Click here to read…

Morocco Showcases Outsourcing Opportunities in India

The Moroccan delegation paid a visit as well to the International Institute of Information Technologies to explore the research in the IT industry and discuss ways for future collaborations. Click here to read…

India’s Saatvik to supply 9.3 MW of solar modules in Mauritius

Indian solar module manufacturer Saatvik Solar has won an order for 9.3 MW of modules to be installed at a solar project in Mauritius. Click here to read…

Airtel Africa, Others Receive Notice to Pay About $180 Million to Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo has ordered mobile-phone companies operating in the African nation to pay a levy estimated at about $180 million a year. Click here to read…

Rise and fall of Gupta brothers: An Indian-South African tale of politics, power, & corruption

Two of the three Gupta brothers- Rajesh and Atul Gupta- have been arrested by the UAE authorities for alleged corruption committed when Jacob Zuma was South Africa’s president. Click here to read…

Book Review

‘Born in Blackness’ is a compelling, unforgettable read

In the first book in this year’s African Politics Summer Reading Spectacular, journalist Howard French shows how European explorers’ curiosity about a wealthy African king shaped the modern world. Click here to read…