Afghanistan

New Cabinet Members Announced, Inauguration Cancelled: Tolo News

Some new members of the caretaker cabinet of the Taliban were announced on Tuesday with an effort to ensure inclusivity by adding “minorities” to the cabinet as Zabihullah Mujahid, the deputy minister for information and culture, said.
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Afghan Media Face Budget Issues, Lack of Access to Information: Tolo News

Afghan media outlets are running out of budget and are faced with lack of information under the Taliban, watchdog organizations said, alarming that it will leave long-term impacts on their activities.
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Only minister of Ashraf Ghani’s cabinet sacked by Taliban: The Khaama Press

Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan sacked the only remaining acting minister of the previous government Waheed Majroh and appointed Qalandar Ebad as acting minister of public health on Tuesday, September 21.
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Pakistan, China, Russia’s envoys meet Taliban premier, Afghan politicians: The Khaama Press

Special representatives of Russia, China, and Pakistan to Afghanistan met with the Prime Minister of Afghanistan Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund in the presidential Palace (Arg) on Tuesday, September 21.
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Taliban changes name of university in Kabul: The Khaama Press

Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan officially changed the name of a government university from University of Burhanuddin Rabbani-former Afghan President and founder of Afghanistan’s second-biggest political party- to Kabul Education University.
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Bangladesh

‘Bangladesh to get 89 lakh Covid vaccine doses in last quarter of 2021’- The Daily Star

A total of 89 lakh doses of Covid-19 vaccine will be shipped to Bangladesh in the last three months of the year, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said in a Facebook post early on Wednesday.
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Chart roadmap for the ones left behind- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has stressed the need for charting out a bold and ambitious global roadmap to put the world back on the SDGs track.
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Indian officials claim to have seized 3 tonnes of Afghan heroin- The Daily Star

Indian officials said on Tuesday they had seized nearly three tonnes of heroin originating from Afghanistan worth an estimated 200 billion rupees ($2.72 billion) amid the chaos following last month’s takeover of the country by the Taliban.
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Covid test at airport: Six labs expected to test samples- Dhaka Tribune

Hossain/Dhaka Tribune Lack of coordination among government authorities delaying the set-up of rt-PCR labs at Dhaka airport, says expatriate minister.
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Get organized for anti-govt movement- New Age

Stating that farmers are now the most neglected section of people in Bangladesh, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday urged the peasants to get organised for waging a strong anti-government movement.
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Time to introduce online agricultural supply chain- The Observer

It is widely known that, during the initial days of the lockdown in 2020, farmers and wholesalers around the country had to struggle for delivering their products to the markets of large cities.
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PM seeks US investment in ICT, renewable energy, blue economy- The Independent

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sought US investment in country’s different promising sectors such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), renewable energy, agro-processing, blue economy, tourism and hi-tech parks.
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PM for forming Women Leaders’ Network to pursue gender equality- The Independent

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today laid special emphasis on forming a Women Leaders’ Network as it can act as a force to ensure gender equality.
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Bangladesh PM gets SDG Progress Award- New Age

The UN-sponsored Sustainable Development Solutions Network has conferred prime minister Sheikh Hasina with ‘SDG Progress Award’ for Bangladesh’s.
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Bhutan

India Commits Rs.45 Billion For Bhutan’s Development For 12th Five-year Plan- Republic World

Strengthening India’s diplomatic ties with Bhutan, India has announced the allocation of Rs. 45 Billon for Bhutan’s development in its 12th Five-year plan.
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Bhutan celebrates 50 years of UN membership- Kuensel

More than 50 years after His late Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck delivered this landmark address in 1971, after Bhutan’s successful admission to the United Nations Organisation.
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6 ways Bhutan is building better food systems – from farm to table- ReliefWeb

To overcome systemic problems in Bhutan’s food systems — which include every step involved in getting food from farm to table — the World Food Programme (WFP) is investing US$7 million to support the Royal Government of Bhutan in improving climate-resilient agriculture.
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Ericsson to install 5G network in Kingdom of Bhutan- Capacity

Ericsson has won a 5G contract with Bhutan Telecom as the landlocked Eastern Himalayan country prepares to launch 5G services at the end of the year.
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Bhutan’s boulder exports stuck since 1st September Tenzing Lamsang- The Bhutanese

Bhutan’s thriving boulder exports business is stuck since the 1st of September as Bhutanese trucks from Phuentsholing and Samtse are not being allowed to move in West Bengal.
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Once in a Life Time Event: How Bhutan celebrated her admission to the United Nations- Kuensel

Exactly fifty years ago, Bhutan was unanimously elected as the 128th member of the United Nations.
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Illegal structures on State land removed in Tsirang- Kuensel

The Tsirang dzongkhag administration demolished 12 of the 14 houses that were built illegally on State land in Dzomlingthang under Gosarling gewog on September 15.
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RCSC removes about 500 positions in civil service- Kuensel

The 12th Five-Year Plan staffing and organisation structure review resulted in removal of 228 messenger (GSP) positions.
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Bhutan’s pursuit of happiness in the pandemic era- The Asia Pacific Policy Society

After decades of development gains, the impacts of COVID-19 threaten the inclusiveness and sustainability of Bhutan’s future, Dendup Chophel and Phurba write.
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Maldives

Maldives’ President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih addresses the UN – UPI

Maldives’ President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih addresses the 76th Session of the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021 in New York City. (Pool Photo by John Minchillo/UPI)
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ISRO case: Maldives women urge CBI to place their damages claim before Supreme Court – New Indian Express

Two Maldives nationals, who were also arrested along with scientist Nambi Narayanan in the 1994 ISRO spy case, have moved the CBI requesting it to place before the Supreme Court their claim for damages of Rs 2 crore from each of the 18 officers who are arrayed as accused in the conspiracy case being probed by the agency.
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Myanmar

Myanmar’s extreme Buddhist nationalists – Lowly Institute

In a surprise move, Myanmar’s ruling military junta announced on 6 September the release from prison of Ashin Wirathu, a controversial Buddhist monk whose sermons have been blamed for inciting anti-Muslim violence over the last decade.
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Junta steps up raids and arrests in effort to stamp out Yangon guerrilla attacks – Myanmar Now

Soldiers carried out raids from Monday through Thursday in five townships across Myanmar’s largest city after resistance forces carried out several recent attacks against the junta’s armed forces.
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Rohingya Armed Groups Active Again in Western Myanmar – The Irrawaddy

Long before the junta’s February 1 coup, the Rohingya crisis was making headlines in the international media.
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This video has circulated in reports since 2020 about another conflict in Myanmar – Fact Check

A video of an attack on a military convoy has been viewed hundreds of thousands of times in multiple Facebook posts in August 2021 that claim it shows a recent ambush in Myanmar.
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U.S. and China Avert Potential Clash in U.N. Over Myanmar Representation – WSJ

Myanmar’s permanent representative to the United Nations, a holdover from the country’s deposed civilian government, will sit out a series of high-level meetings in New York this week, averting for now a potential clash between the U.S. and China over who should represent the country on the world stage.
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Asia and the Pacific: Weekly Regional Humanitarian Snapshot (14 – 20 September 2021) – Relief Web

The humanitarian situation in Sagaing Region remains challenging, with armed clashes between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and local People’s Defence Forces (PDF) reported in several areas, which led to the displacement of some 18,600 people from Kalay, Kani, and Myaung townships between 7 and 10 September.
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Nepal

We have ample evidence that China has encroached upon our land in Humla: Lawmaker Shahi- KhbaraHub

Members of the committee recently formed by the government to study the border dispute in t Shahihe Humla district are currently working on the report.
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1036 new Covid cases recorded Tuesday, active caseload stands at 21,524- Himalaya

Nepal’s coronavirus caseload reached 786,577 on Tuesday with 1,036 more people testing positive for the infection in the past 24 hours.
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Nepal Infrastructure Bank (NIFRA) proposes 8.50 per cent cash dividend- Himalaya

Nepal Infrastructure Bank (NIFRA) has proposed to distribute dividends to the shareholders from the FY 2077/78.
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Appropriation Bill tabled in National Assembly- Himalaya

The Appropriation Bill, 2078 BS was tabled in the National Assembly today.
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SAARC meet on UN assembly sidelines called off over Afghanistan- Kathmandu Post

Officials say there was lack of concurrence from member states on the meeting which Nepal proposed last week and sent out invitations to all except Kabul. https://tkpo.st/3EDy6lQ” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…
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UML’s partisan politics enters upper house, as members demand Speaker’s resignation- Kathmandu Post

Observers say Nepali parties have failed to comprehend the spirit of the National Assembly and made it a platform to squabble over petty interests.
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Deuba recalls 12 envoys appointed by Oli- Kathmandu Post

Twenty-three missions are now set to go headless, and some are in key countries—India, China, US, UK and Qatar.
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Prithvi Highway disrupted after landslide- Republica

Landslide occurred at Ichhakamana in Chitwan has disrupted vehicular movement along the Prithvi Highway.
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Gilles Bourbao is the new French ambassador to Nepal- Online Khabar

France has appointed senior foreign affairs advisor Gilles Bourbao as the new ambassador to Nepal.
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Landslide Buries Three to Dead In Gulmi- Rising Nepal

At least three people died after a landslide buried their house in Gulmi.
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Pakistan

Qureshi says no rush to recognise Taliban govt in Afghanistan: Dawn

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said Afghanistan’s new Taliban rulers should understand that if they want recognition and assistance in rebuilding the war-battered country
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Pakistan feels ‘used and binned’, says Ramiz after England cancels tour: Dawn

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ramiz Raja said on Tuesday he felt “used and then binned” after England cancelled a white-ball tour for their men’s and women’s teams next month.
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Pakistan calls for unfreezing of Afghan assets ahead of UN talks: The Express Tribune

Pakistan has called on world powers to unblock billions of dollars in Afghan assets frozen after the Taliban takeover but said it did not expect recognition soon of the new government.
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Afghanistan will descend into civil war without inclusive govt: PM: The Express Tribune

If they [Taliban] don’t include all factions, sooner or later they will have again a sort of a civil war,” the premier said in an interview with the BBC on Tuesday.
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NCOC to relax COVID-19 curbs in Punjab, KP districts from September 23: The News

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) Tuesday decided to ease additional restrictions in districts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after September 23.
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Sri Lanka

President Rajapaksa and Kuwait PM hold bilateral talks in NY – Adaderana

A meeting between President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, has taken plane in Manhattan, New York on Sunday (Sep. 19), on the side lines of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
has made a request for more employment opportunities for skilled workers.
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IMF has a role in Sri Lanka after framework decided: Jayasundera – economynext

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will “definitely” have a role to play in Sri Lanka’s post-Covid-19 economic recovery, but that will be after the authorities formulate the policy framework, President’s Secretary P B Jayasundera said.
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1,321 persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT

Sri Lanka’s COVID-19 detections rose to 507,330 with the detection of 1,321 COVID-19 positive persons yesterday. Persons who tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday include 1,321 persons from the New Year cluster.
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Sri Lanka, World Bank sign agreement to strengthen climate resilience – Ceylon Today

The Government of Sri Lanka and the World Bank recently signed a US$ 92 million financing agreement for the Climate Resilience Multi-Phased Program Phase I Project.
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Afghanistan

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

Zabihullah Mujahid, deputy minister of the Ministry of Information and Culture of the caretaker cabinet, said on Monday that if the international community recognizes the new government, they will address the concerns over allegations of human rights violations.
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IMF Funds for Afghanistan ‘On Hold,’ Says Spokesman: Tolo News

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently announced a $650 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocation for member countries, but Afghanistan at the moment will not be allowed to access these funds.
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China to provide unconditional aid to Afghanistan by winter: The Khaama Press

Chinese ambassador to Kabul Wang yu said that his country is prepared to continue his country’s unconditional humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan.
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ISIS-K claims responsibly for blasts in Nangarhar province: The Khaama Press

The Khurasan branch of Islamic State (ISIS-K) has claimed that they have conducted three blasts on Saturday, September 18 and one the following day in the capital city-Jalalabad- of eastern Nangarhar province.
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Ex-Officials Seek Urgent Attention as Banking Crisis Deepens: Tolo News

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

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

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday planted a honey locust tree and unveiled a bench at UN gardens.
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First Phase Up Polls: Three killed as violence rules the day- Daily Star

At least three people were killed and dozens others injured in clashes between supporters of ruling Awami League’s chairman candidates and party rebels.
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Strictly implement Paris accord- Daily Star

Sheikh Hasina has asked global leaders to take stronger steps urgently to address the planetary emergency of climate change.
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Child Marriage: Creeping through the pandemic- Daily Star

Eighty-five girl students out of 345 of Baravita Girls High School in Kurigram’s Phulbari upazila have been married off during the closure of the school amid the pandemic.
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Bangladesh to get vaccines from India as priority- Dhaka Tribune

India is set to resume export under “Vaccine Maitri” in the fourth quarter starting from October.
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Covid-19: Less than 10% fully vaccinated in Bangladesh- Dhaka Tribune

Less than 10% of the country’s population has been fully vaccinated despite the frantic efforts of the government.
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Four new sectors to get cash assistance on export- The Daily Observer

The government has taken a decision to provide export incentive or cash assistance to four new sectors for the current fiscal year 2021-22.
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Bangladesh health department driver jailed for 30 years- New Age

The Dhaka Special Tribunal-4 on Monday jailed Abdul Malek, a driver at the Directorate General of Health Service, for 30 years in a case of possessing an illegal firearm and ammunitions.
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3 killed as violence, rigging mark Bangladesh local body polls- New Age

At least three people were killed and several dozens injured in violence over the first phase of union parishad elections held on Monday.
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Saudi Arabia keen to invest more in Bangladesh- The Independent

Noting that Bangladesh has an investment-friendly climate, the Saudi investment minister said there is a potential for more Saudi investment in Bangladesh.
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Bhutan

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

Around 46 percent of Class IV-XII students scored lower than 40 percent on the 2021 midterm examinations, according to the Ministry of Education’s consolidated midterm examination report.
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The importance of agriculture- Kuensel

Agriculture development in the country must take a new turn. Otherwise, we would be talking about the same problems 100 years from now.
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Potato exporters worry as their trucks stopped at border- Kuensel

Customs officials in India stopped trucks carrying potatoes from Bhutan without a plant quarantine certificate (PQC), which has affected business for potato exporters and bidders in Samdrupjongkhar.
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Maintaining small, compact and efficient Civil Service still a challenge- BBS

As per the commission’s Annual Report 2020 – 2021, this time, the increase in the number of civil servants is due to the increased demand in the education and health sectors.
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HH awards Toedtse Jim to Khenpo Karma Loday- BBS

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

Three pilots trained by India for MNDF – Edition

Indian High Commissioner to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir said India have been training pilots for helicopters and the Dornier aircrafts gifted to Maldives. Three pilots have returned to Maldives after completing their training, according to the high commissioner.
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UNGA President hosts special dinner for President Solih upon arrival to attend 76th UNGA session – Raajje

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

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

Myanmar’s detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has denied false reports that she didn’t accept armed resistance against the military regime.
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Agreement Moves Myanmar’s Kyaukphyu Port Project a Step Forward – The Irrawaddy

An agreement to conduct preliminary field investigation work for the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Deep Sea Port Project has been signed.
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Rohingya Armed Groups Active Again in Western Myanmar – The Irrawaddy

Long before the junta’s February 1 coup, the Rohingya crisis was making headlines in the international media.
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Nepal

Govt told not to arrest anyone for negative remarks- Himalaya

The Supreme Court today issued a stay order against the government asking it not to arrest anyone for making negative statements.
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India to resume export of COVID-19 vaccines under the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ programme from October-December- Himalaya

India is all set to resume the export of surplus COVID-19 vaccines under the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ program.
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‘Opposition must play responsible role in Parliament- Himalaya

The government has urged the opposition to play a responsible role in running the federal Parliament.
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Deuba’s plan for Cabinet expansion constrained by coalition partners- Kathmandu Post

Janata Samajbadi Party wants ordinance to ease party splits withdrawn while CPN (Unified Socialist) wants the prime minister to wait until court order on Oli’s petition/
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Government allocates record Rs15 billion to ensure fertiliser- Kathmandu Post

The government has set aside a record Rs15 billion for its fertiliser subsidy programme this year, fearing steep price rises in the world market may result in shortages.
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Mahalaya in Nepal: Why Hindus remember their forefathers before the festive season- OnlineKhabar

The offerings made to the priest during the ceremony is believed to reach the three generations caught in pitri lok.
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Budhigandaki hydropower project delay incurs a loss of billions: BRB- OnlineKhabar

Former prime minister Baburam Bhattarai joins a protest programme demanding the early launch of the Budhigandaki Hydropower Project, in Kathmandu, on Monday, September 20, 2021.
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Energy Roadmap Launched for Achieving SDG-7- Rising Nepal

Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal formally launched the roadmap for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-7) on Monday.
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Supreme Court hearing writ against 14 lawmakers today- KhabarHub

A hearing of the writ petition filed at the Supreme Court (SC) demanding to revoke the membership of 14 UML lawmakers will be conducted today.
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लोकतन्त्रविरोधी अध्यादेश खारेजी नभएसम्म सरकारले पूर्णता पाउँदैन : उपेन्द्र यादव

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

Yadav said that the Council of Ministers would not be complete until the ordinance weakening democracy and political parties was repealed.
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Pakistan

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

Pakistan is maintaining a regular engagement with the Afghan Taliban for safeguarding the country’s security interests, said military spokesman Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar on Monday.
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Pakistan GDP to grow at 4.2pc: Fitch: Dawn

With some subdued downward risks, Fitch Ratings on Monday forecast Pakistan’s economic growth at 4.2 per cent — against the government’s target of 4.8pc.
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Govt refuses to reveal details of foreign gifts given to PM Imran: The Express Tribune

The federal government has refused to make public details of gifts given to Prime Minister Imran Khan by foreign heads of states, saying the disclosure can damage country’s national interest and its relations with other states.
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Saudi Arabia offers to play role in easing Pakistan-India tension: The Express Tribune

Saudi Foreign Minister Amir Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, who is on his maiden visit to India, has said that Saudi Arabia could play a role in easing tensions between archrivals Pakistan and India.
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Security concerns: ECB also pulls out of October twin series: The News

England cricket chiefs on Monday withdrew their men’s and women’s teams from next month’s white-ball series in Pakistan citing “increasing concerns about travelling to the region”.
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‘Contact with Taliban in national interest’: The News

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

Lanka, Turkish FMs powwow in NY- The Island

Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris has expressed condolences on the death of two Turkish nationals as a result of the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks when he met the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavusoglu at the Turkish House.
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‘War crimes’: Lanka rejects fresh probe- The Island

Sri Lanka yesterday (14) rejected the UNHCR proposal to initiate a fresh inquiry into accountability issues.
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Vaccination centres drying up as youngsters refuse vaccines- Daily Mirror

Health authorities yesterday raised serious concerns over the lack of interest among the 20 to 29 age group to get themselves vaccinated against COVID19 with many having fears that it may lead to infertility while some preferred unproven natural remedies.
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Jayantha Ketagoda to be sworn in today- Daily Mirror

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

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

According to Khalilzad, the plan was to keep Kabul out of the Taliban’s hands and negotiate a political transition, but Ghani’s escape created a power vacuum and the Taliban entered the city, the Financial Times reported.
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Afghan Students Anxious as Schools Remain Closed: Tolo News

Although a month has passed since the fall of the previous government, secondary schools (grade 7 and up) remain closed, causing concerns, a number of students told TOLOnews on Thursday.
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Black Market Visa Business Booming in Afghanistan: Tolo News

As most embassies in Kabul closed following the collapse of the former government, and the number of people demanding visas has increased, the black market business for visas is skyrocketing.
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We impose no conditions on Taliban, they declared their objective themselves: Russia: The Khaama Press

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said that they are not imposing any conditions on the Taliban and added that they are declaring their objectives themselves which are fighting terrorism and drug trafficking.
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Taliban asks UN’s cooperation in recognition, lifting sanctions: The Khaama Press

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

Quarterly GDP growth data from next fiscal year- Daily Star

The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) is going to publish the gross domestic product (GDP) growth data every quarter from the next fiscal year.
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PM at UNGA: Post-pandemic recovery high on agenda- Daily Star

Bangladesh will focus on post-Covid economic recovery, climate change and Rohingya crisis at the UN General Assembly in New York, where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will attend from September 21
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Social Safety Net: High allocations, but off target- Daily Star

Bangladesh is failing to reap the maximum benefit from its high social safety net allocations.
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Editors’ Council concerned as BFIU seeks bank details of journos- Asian Age

The Editors’ Council has expressed concern as the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) has sought bank details of eleven journalist leaders.
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Investigate how many people Zia killed in jail- Asian Age

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged lawmakers to find out how many people were killed in each jail across the country during Ziaur Rahman’s regime.
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ED: A scientifically sound climate strategy for Bangladesh- Dhaka Tribune

COURTESY With the weakening of Bangladesh’s naturally protective mechanisms such as the Sundarbans, the government needs to take adequate steps to reverse the damage.
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BNP policymakers now will sit with grassroots leaders- The Observer

BNP policymakers now will sit with grassroots leaders BNP policymakers are now planning to sit with the grassroots leaders.
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PM flies for Finland Friday morning on her way to UNGA- The Independent

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will leave for Finland on Friday morning as part of a two-week official visit to attend the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
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Hasina pledges concrete-steel houses for poor- New Age

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

Parties renewing membership without consent?- Kuensel

Despite being the ruling party, the Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) has become the smallest party in terms of membership.
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Lhuentse-Mongar local bus service resumes- Kuensel

Local bus service from Lhuentse to Mongar resumed on September 14 almost five months after.
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Understanding mental health and well-being: Me For Myself- Kuensel

About 50 Bhutanese youths are engaged in the Me For Myself (M4M) campaign that focuses on mental health and well-being.
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Commercial youth farmers wait for NLCS’s approval- Kuensel

To expand their commercial farming, a youth group in Samarchu, Dagana, proposed to lease 11.40 acres of state land nearby their farm in March this year.
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200-bedded quarantine facility at Dhamdum ready- Samtse- BBS

The 200-bedded Quarantine Facility at Dhamdum in Samtse is now ready. The facility which was inaugurated on Tuesday.
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Maldives

Nepal, Maldives envoys visit UAP – New Age

Two teams from of the embassy of Nepal and the high commission of Maldives to Bangladesh headed by Nepal ambassador Banshidhar Mishra and Maldives high commissioner Shiruzimath Sameer visited University of Asia Pacific.
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UNWTO Plans Restart of Tourism Across Asia and the Pacific – Travel Agent Central

The 33rd joint meeting of the World Tourism Organization’s Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and its Commission for South Asia was held September 14, 2021.
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Ex-pres. issued warning for violating house arrest terms – Raajje

Maldives Correction Service (MCS) has closed the case of incarcerated Former President Abdulla Yameen violating the conditions and terms of his house arrest by taking part in an opposition rally, after issuing a warning.
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Hungary consulate opens in the Maldives – Avas

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

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

Norwegian telecom firm Telenor is selling its Myanmar operations to avoid European Union sanctions after “continued pressure” from Myanmar’s military junta to activate intercept surveillance technology, the company’s Asia head told Reuters.
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Cold, frightened and armed: In Myanmar’s jungles, a struggling resistance – Indian Express

The Myanmar soldiers attacked the village of Yay Shin, deep in the furrows of the Himalayan foothills, just after dusk, descending with flamethrowers and heavy weaponry.
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Finding fault lines within the Tatmadaw – Frontier Myanmar

A split in the Tatmadaw has been unlikely since its founding in 1962, but a steady increase in defections and desertions since the coup amid plunging morale has some questioning whether unity can be maintained within the nation’s most powerful institution.
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Myanmar Military Battles Ethnic Armed Group in Kachin State – The Irrawaddy

The ethnic armed group and the Myanmar military have been clashing on the strategic Tanai-Shingbwiyang Road since September 7, after regime soldiers attempted to retake control of Tarong Village, which lies along the road, said KIA information officer Colonel Naw Bu.
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Military Junta Attempts To Undermine AA Rule In Rakhine State – BNI Online

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

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

CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli today said UML’s door was shut for Madhav Kumar Nepal as he had led a campaign to topple his own party’s government and support the leader of opposition to form a new government.
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Arun Valley Hydropower Development Company (AHPC) proposes 10 per cent Bonus shares; When’s the book closure?

Arun Valley Hydropower Development Company Limited (AHPC) has proposed 10 per cent bounus shares and 0.526% cash dividends on Thursday.
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Nepal to wrap up evacuation of its citizens from Afghanistan on September 18- Kathmandu Post

The government is preparing to wrap up the evacuation of its citizens from crisis-ridden Afghanistan on September 18.
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A load of rubbish- Nepali Times

Kathmandu’s garbage problem is not new, it has been five decades in the making.
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TU urges colleges to run physical classes- Republica

The Tribhuvan University (TU) has urged the campuses affiliated to it to run physical classes from Friday.
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NRB injects additional Rs 20 billion in country’s financial market to ease liquidity crunch- Republica

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

SCO leaders caution against abandoning Afghanistan: Dawn

Several regional leaders participating in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on Thursday underscored the need for an inclusive government in Afghanistan and concurred with Pakistan that the war-ravaged country should not be abandoned after the Taliban takeover.
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US urges Pakistan’s constructive role in resolving Afghan crisis: Dawn

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

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

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Dushanbe and reiterated commitment to further enhance the bilateral ties.
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Pakistan to recognise Taliban govt ‘independently, not under duress’: The Express Tribune

Pakistan has announced that it will take an independent decision in line with its interests on recognising the Taliban government in a major policy statement rejecting the US demand asking Islamabad not to give legitimacy to Afghanistan’s new rulers unless they meet international demands.
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Slow pace of work on CPEC irks Chinese companies: Dawn

A Senate panel on Thursday expressed concern over the slow pace of development on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and dissatisfaction being expressed by the Chinese companies over the negligible progress over the past three years.
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UN High Commissioner for Refugees calls on COAS: The News

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security, current situation in Afghanistan and collaboration in humanitarian assistance were discussed.
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Taliban be given time to run country effectively: Rashid: The News

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

Port City’s International Financial Centre postponed – The Morning

D to the prevailing pandemic situation, commencement of construction has been postponed.
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2,271 persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT

COVID-19 detections in the country rose to 498,694 with the detection of 2,271 COVID-19 cases yesterday.
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Fresh concerns as manufacturing, services contract in August – Daily FT

The country’s manufacturing and services sector had contracted in August as per the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) compiled by the Central Bank, sparking fresh concerns over the impact of the COVID third-wave-induced lockdowns.
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EU delegation to visit Sri Lanka for talks on GSP+ concessions – Adaderana

A delegation of the European Union is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka on September 27, the Foreign Secretary Admiral (Prof.) Jayanath Colombage said.
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United States Delivers $40 Million in Financing to Support Small Businesses and Empower Sri Lankan Women – US Embassy

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

UN Raises Concerns Over Civilian Casualties In Panjshir: Tolo News

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Monday at the UN meeting on Afghanistan in Geneva said she is worried about reports over civilian casualties and human rights violations in Panjshir.
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Taliban Welcomes Intl Aid, Pledges to Distribute Transparently: Tolo News

Taliban’s government acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the Taliban wants good bilateral relations with the world’s countries, including the United States.
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Thousands of people protest against Taliban in Kandahar province: The Khaama Press

Thousands of men and women took to the streets of Kandahar city and protested against the Taliban’s decision based on which the families of late Afghan security forces should evacuate their residence.
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Taliban denies human rights’ violation, war crimes in Panjshir province: The Khaama Press

In front of a Taliban flag, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid speaks at at his first news conference, in Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021. For years, Mujahid had been a shadowy figure issuing statements on behalf of the militants.
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Virtual protest, Afghan women defy all-black attire: The Khaama Press

A number of Afghan women living abroad have posted their photos wearing traditional Afghan clothes to defy the all-black attire worn by hundreds of women in Kabul and other provinces recently.
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Bangladesh

PM reiterates call to follow health safety guidelines- Daily Star

Prime Minister and Leader of the House Sheikh Hasina reiterated her call to the countrymen, particularly the lawmakers, to follow the health guidelines properly.
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Farming accounts for 35pc of it- Daily Star

Animal farming accounts for twice as many greenhouse gas emissions as plants grown for consumption.
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Universities to reopen after September 27- The Asian Age

The Bangladesh authorities are allowing universities to reopen for in-person classes and exams after Sept 27 following the long coronavirus-induced shutdown.
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HC: Shut down unregistered online news portals- The Asian Age

The High Court on Tuesday directed authorities concerned to shut down all the unregistered online news portals in the country.
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‘BNP’s unabated falsehood reflects its fascist mentality’- The Asian Age

Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Tuesday said BNP’s unabated falsehood is part of their fascist mentality.
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Bangladesh wants peaceful settlement between Guyana and Venezuela- Observer

Bangladesh on Tuesday chaired the Commonwealth Ministerial Group on Guyana and reaffirms the proposal of the group for peaceful settlement of the dispute between Guyana and Venezuela through the intervention of the ICJ.
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Bangladesh reports 2,074 fresh cases, 35 deaths from COVID-19- The Independent

Bangladesh on Tuesday reported 2,074 COVID-19 cases while the coronavirus claimed overnight 35 lives.
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Dengue cases on rise as Dhaka city bodies fail to kill Aedes- New Age

The number of dengue cases is on the rise as the city authorities have failed to control the mosquito menace.
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Bhutan

Class VII and VIII students in P/ling return to schools- Kuensel

The schools are operating with strict Covid-19 protocols prepared by the Southern Covid-19 Task Force (SC19TF).
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Creating pathways for sustainable food systems- Kuensel

Various representatives from stakeholders relevant to the agricultural sector yesterday took stock of Bhutan’s future in agriculture.
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Subsidised rural timber allotment begins- Kuensel

According to records, out of 15 applicants, nine applied for renovation and six for new construction.
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Cabinet asks home ministry to submit action plan for combating human trafficking- Bhutan Times

In a stark revelation, Bhutan failed to meet minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking and remains in Tier 2 Watch List for the second consecutive year in 2021 U.S. report.
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Bhutanese Ambassador presents his letter of credence to His Majesty King Philppe, King of the Belgians- Bhutan Times

Bhutan’s accredited Ambassador to Belgium Tshering Gyaltshen Penjor presented his letter of credence to His Majesty Philppe, King of the Belgians at the Royal Palace in Brussels on 8 September 2021.
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Nu 19.47mn worth of vegetables exported to India- Business Bhutan

This is as per the provisional trade statistics for the first quarter of this year.
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Maldives

Covid-19 health, social expenditure reaches MVR 2,106.9 million – Raajje

According to latest statistics publicized by the Ministry of Finance on Monday, between September 2 – 9 expenditures related to health social sectors saw a 0.04 percent increase from the week before.
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Maldives tourist arrivals figure exceeds 800,000 by Monday – Raajje

As the country inches closer to its tourist arrival target of 1.3 million for the year, by September 13 Maldives recorded 809,764 arrivals, of which 53,798 have been welcomed during the ongoing month.
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Myanmar

Myanmar’s Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Attends Court as Health Improves – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi attended a hearing at a special court in Naypyitaw’s Zabuthiri Township on Tuesday, as she was feeling better.
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What to make of the US-China deal on Myanmar’s UN seat? – Barbedwires

On 13 September, Foreign Policy, in an exclusive report, revealed that the US and China had brokered a deal between them to defer a decision on who would occupy Myanmar’s seat at the UN – the junta or the National Unity Government (NUG) – to November.
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Int’l Community Can’t Be Relied on for Myanmar Democracy Movement or People’s Safety: NUG – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government (NUG) said it could no longer rely on the international community to support the country’s democracy movement or to protect the people of Myanmar from the brutality of the military junta.
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China’s Infrastructure Projects in Myanmar, Nepal and Tibet Threaten to Encircle India – The Irrawaddy

On August 25, when the international media was busy covering the Afghan crisis, China quietly opened a strategic rail link through civil war-hit Myanmar to access the Indian Ocean.
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What Has Happened to Myanmar’s Tatmadaw? – The Irrawaddy

The decision by Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG) to declare a “defensive people’s war” against the military junta that usurped power in Naypyitaw on Feb. 1 has not been met with much sympathy from the international community.
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Myanmar’s UN Ambassador to Stay On: UN Sources – The Irrawaddy

The United States and China have brokered an agreement that will effectively block Myanmar’s military rulers from addressing the United Nations’ General Assembly next week.
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Nepal

Let UML’s Pandey, Bhatta join Nepal’s party, EC told- Himalaya

The Supreme Court today issued an interim order to the Election Commission asking it not to bar CPN-UML lawmakers Som Prasad Pandey and Sharada Devi Bhatta from joining the Madhav Kumar Nepal-led CPN (Unified Socialist) party.
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UML lawmakers continue to disrupt House- Himalaya

CPN-UML lawmakers continued to stall the proceedings of both the houses of representatives today accusing Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota of being complicit in the ‘conspiracy’ to split their party. Sapkota postponed the HoR meeting till September 20.
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Child marriage cases up by 31.25pc

The evil of Child marriage is rampant and continues to worsen in the country.
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SAARC meet on UN assembly sidelines uncertain after Afghan regime change-Kathmandu Post

Citing the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba will not be travelling to New York, one of his aides has said, as the 76th session of the UN General Assembly officially opens.
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Government faces financial deadlock as budget fails to get through Parliament- Kathmandu Post

The obstruction of the House of Representatives by the main opposition CPN-UML on Tuesday has led to a government shutdown situation.
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CPN (Unified Socialist)’s first central committee meeting scheduled for Sept 21- The Republica

The first central committee meeting of the CPN (Unified Socialist) is going to take place on September 21.
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Scores of lawmakers in Nepal lack intelligence and integrity: A review of their statements in House- Online Khabar

CPN-Maoist Centre chief whip Dev Gurung also agrees that his party has not been able to change this and train lawmakers.
https://english.onlinekhabar.com/lawmakers-in-nepal-parliament.html” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Pakistan

PM Imran annoyed over PTI defeat in Punjab cantt polls: Dawn

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday expressed annoyance over defeat of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insasf (PTI) in recent cantonment boards elections in four major stations — Rawalpindi, Lahore, Peshawar and Multan, sources told Dawn.
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Opposition submits no-confidence motion against Balochistan CM: Dawn

Sixteen opposition members in the Balochistan Assembly on Tuesday submitted a no-confidence motion against Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani to the assembly secretary, demanding that a session be called for a debate on the motion within seven days.
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Imran to Putin: Pak-Russia close coordination on Afghanistan crucial: The Express Tribune

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday received a telephone call from Russian President Vladimir Putin wherein both the leaders discussed latest situation in Afghanistan and other matters.
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Blinken says US will assess Pakistan ties over Afghanistan’s future: The Express Tribune

The United States will be looking at its relationship with Pakistan in the coming weeks, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday, to formulate what role Washington would want it to play in the future of Afghanistan.
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Lockdown in 18 districts to be lifted tomorrow: The News

Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar Tuesday announced to lift lockdown in 18 out of 24 districts with high risk of delta variant of COVID-19 until September 30.
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Sri Lanka

GoSL opposes ‘polarising’ UNHRC initiative – The Morning

Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, addressing the 48th Regular Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, yesterday (14) via online technology, said that the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) rejects any external initiatives established by Resolution 46/1, which was adopted at the Council earlier this year, as it will polarise the Sri Lankan society.
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Total COVID-19 detections exceed 490,000 with 2,475 new cases – Daily FT

Sri Lanka’s COVID-19 detections exceeded 490,000 with 2,475 persons testing positive for COVID-19 yesterday.
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SL to establish diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste – Ceylon Today

The Foreign Minister’s proposal to establish formal diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste (East Timor), was approved by the Cabinet.
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UN Core Group ‘deeply concerned’ about human rights developments in Sri Lanka – Adaderana.lk

The United Nations Core Group on Sri Lanka has expressed its deep concerns over the current human rights developments in Sri Lanka and the country’s counter-terrorism legistation.
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UN Meeting Participants Pledge Support to Afghanistan: Tolo News

The United Nations on Monday held a meeting in Geneva under the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to show solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and pledge humanitarian support for Afghanistan
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153 Afghan Media Outlets Cease Operating in Less Than 1 Month: Tolo News

Organizations supporting free media in Afghanistan said on Monday that since the fall of the former government in mid-August, 153 media outlets have stopped activity in 20 provinces.
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Private Sector Warns of Economic Collapse: Tolo News

Afghanistan private sector – Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI), Afghanistan Chamber of Mines and Industry (ACMI) – on Monday in a press conference in Kabul warned the country would plunge into an economic crisis unless Afghanistan reserves are released.
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Afghanistan to see expansion of international relations: Taliban: The Khaama Press

Acting minister of foreign affairs of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Amir Khan Motaqi said that Afghanistan will see an expansion of international engagement with the world.
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Women protest in support to Taliban in Nangarhar province: The Khaama Press

Tens of women took to the streets of eastern Jalalabad city of Nangarhar province to support the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and condemn the previous all-women protest in Kabul and other provinces.
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Bangladesh

Man held with Saudi riyal at Dhaka airport- Daily Star

Members of Aviation Security (Avsec) detained a man with a large amount of Saudi riyals at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport yesterday.
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ChirpWire: A virtual safe haven for Bangladeshi extremists- Dhaka Tribune

Bangladeshi radicals now shift to a safer, encrypted social media site developed exclusively to promote extremism.
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Bangladesh, UK issue collective call for ‘ambitious action’ against climate change- Dhaka Tribune

Both UK and Bangladesh reiterate their commitment to the goal of safe, voluntary, dignified, and informed returns of Rohingyas to Myanmar during the dialogue
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‘It is necessary to make education time-befitting’- Asian Age

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday stressed the need for making education programs time-befitting.
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No need for a vaccine third jab booster: study- The Observer

There is no current need for the general population to be given third doses, according to a report in The Lancet published Monday.
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Three studies on Kamalapur multi-modal transport hub as agencies differ- Financial Express

A move is on to undertake three separate studies following the BR’s failure to resolve conflicts in getting the required space for different transport modes at the planned Kamalapur multimodal transport hub.
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No exams up to III, no public exams until SSC under new curriculum- New Age

There will be no public examinations held before the Secondary School Certificate examination under the new National Curriculum Framework, which is scheduled to be implemented in Bangladesh in phases from 2023.
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Bhutan

Health Ministry starts second dose of COVID vaccine for children in Thimphu Thromde- BBS

The Health Ministry rolled out the second dose of COVID vaccine for children aged between 12 and 17 in Thimphu Thromde from Monday. The children are getting the Moderna vaccine.
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Wangdue – Trongsa highway expected to open to traffic by tomorrow afternoon- BBS

It will take until Tuesday afternoon for the roads department to reopen the Wangdue – Trongsa highway.
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Opening doors to employment- BBS

Training could be a gateway to lots of opportunities. And this is exactly what the participants of the recent Capacity Development Training for Youth in Gelegphu consider.
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Drying lakes in Dagana to be revived- BBS

Plans are underway to revive the lakes in Dagana’s three gewogs. People have been concerned with the lakes in their communities drying.
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Discontinuing FYP drafts will be a big blunder: Opposition- Bhutan Times

The Opposition Party has lashed out on the government stating that it must continue with the practice of preparing a draft Five Year Plan (FYP) and discontinuing it will be a big blunder.
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Bhutan calls for technical stewardship and resources- Bhutan Times

At the recently concluded 74th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for South-East Asia, Bhutan called upon the United Nations agencies and the international development partners to provide the much-needed technical stewardship and resources.
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Cabinet asks home ministry to submit action plan for combating human trafficking- Bhutan Times

In a stark revelation, Bhutan failed to meet minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking and remains in Tier 2 Watch List for the second consecutive year in 2021 U.S. report.
Click here to read…

Maldives

President Solih to address UN General Assembly for a second time – Raajje v
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will be addressing the United Nations General Assembly, once again. Raajje MV understands that the president will be delivering an address at the 76th session of the UNGA, to take place in New York on 21 September 2021.
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MTCC partners with BML and Mastercard to introduce digital payment systems – Edition

Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) partners with Bank of Maldives (BML) and Mastercard to introduce a digital payment system that will allow customers to use their cash cards while utilizing the public transport system.
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President Solih receives credentials from two new ambassadors, new non-resident high commissioner – Raajje

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has been presented with the credentials of new ambassadors and high commissioner of three countries.
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Myanmar

Myanmar’s Shadow Government Prepares Evidence of Junta War Crimes – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s junta has committed massacres and war crimes in Sagaing Region by murdering about 112 people within three months, according to the Human Rights Ministry of the civilian National Unity Government (NUG).
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Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Denies Rumors of Talks With Myanmar Regime – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has denied rumors that she has held talks with the junta leaders over the past two months.
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Over 80 Myanmar Military-Owned Telecom Towers Destroyed Nationwide – The Irrawaddy

More than 80 telecom towers owned in a joint venture between the Myanmar military and Vietnam’s Defence Ministry have been destroyed by civilian resistance forces across the country.
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Myanmar’s Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Sick; Court Hearings Postponed – The Irrawaddy

Hearings in several of the court trials of Myanmar’s detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi were postponed on Monday.
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Myanmar Military-Backed USDP Accused of Exploiting Smaller Political Parties – The Irrawaddy

The Myanmar military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is taking advantage of smaller political parties to increase its influence on current affairs in Myanmar, said Daw Nan Shwe Kyar, the co-chairman of the Wun Thar Nu Democratic Party.
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Nepal

Budget plans low-cost meals, monetary aid for the poor, but experts smell electoral motives- Kathmandu Post

Finance Minister Janardan Sharma announced that the government would provide low-cost meals to the urban poor from 10 different places in the Kathmandu Valley in association with social organisations.
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Flood victims staying on encroached forest land for years- Himalaya

The flood victims of 1987 have not yet been given permanent shelters.
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57th Children’s Day to be celebrated- Himalaya

The government is preparing to observe the 57th National Children’s Day on September 14.
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House obstructions, if continue, can lead to financial deadlock- Kathmandu Post

Speaker Agni Sapkota’s attempt to resolve the ongoing House crisis fell flat on Monday after the CPN-UML boycotted an all-party meeting called by him.
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All-Party Meet Kicks Off, CPN-UML Chair Oli Absent- The Rising Nepal
the all-party meeting called by House of Representatives (HoR) speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota has begun in the Lhotse Hall of the Federal Parliament in New Baneshwor.
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Human-animal interface in Nepal wildlife corridor- Nepali Times

The human-tiger contact has become a bigger challenge than poaching. Conservation programs should look into reducing such conflicts.
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Report: Climate change could see 200 million move by 2050- Republica

Climate change could push more than 200 million people to leave their homes in the next three decades.
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Leader Pandey entrusted to form government in Bagmati- Republica

CPN (Unified Socialist) Bagmati Province has decided to hold discussion with other parties of the ruling alliance to form a new government.
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MCC dispute in Nepal: Your FAQs answered- Onlinekhabar

The proposed Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) grant has been the talk of the town over the past few weeks in Nepal.
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Hanumandhoka Durbar Museum Reopens- The Rising Nepal

The Hanumandhoka Durbar Museum has reopened after four and a half months.
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Pakistan

Taliban’s rights observance linked to economic squeeze end: FM Qureshi: Dawn

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Monday observance of human rights by the Taliban in Afghanistan was linked to the loosening of economic squeeze on them.
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10th CPEC JCC session likely to be held next week: Dawn

Addressing his maiden press conference after taking over the charge of the CPEC Authority, Mr Mansoor expressed optimism about the holding the JCC meeting either on Sept 23 or 24.
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President lauds govt’s economic, foreign policies in joint parliament session: The Express Tribune

President Dr Arif Alvi lauded the performance of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government on various fronts especially economy, social and human development and foreign policy during its three-year tenure to take the country towards a “prosperous and shining future”.
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Taliban close Pak-Afghan border crossing for pedestrians: The Express Tribune

The Taliban on Monday closed the Torkham border gate, the main crossing point between Pakistan and Afghanistan, for pedestrian movement, a local official said.
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Sindh receives more than 320,000 Pfizer jabs from US: The Express Tribune

The Sindh Government on Monday received 320,580 new Pfizer vaccine doses sent by the United States through the COVAX facility, the US State Department said in a press release.
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COAS visits Karachi Corps, briefed on security situation in Sindh: The News

The COAS emphasised to guard effectively against hybrid threats in view of the latest developments in the region and the need to respond collectively with the whole of nation approach
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Sri Lanka

‘We are having info and evidence repository of 120,000 items’ – The Island

UN Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet yesterday (13) said that her Office was going ahead with a fresh investigation in respect of Sri Lanka accountability issues.
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2,560 persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT

COVID-19 detections in Sri Lanka rose to 488,482 with 2,560 persons testing positive for COVID-19 yesterday.
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Korean giants sign MoU for Negombo-Colombo LRT feasibility study, mega mixed development project – Daily FT

KCI Metro Link Korea Company Ltd. and the GBK Consortium Ltd. of the Republic of Korea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct a feasibility study in order to construct an LRT line from Negombo to Colombo via Bandaranaike International Airport of Colombo as well as a mixed development project.
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China donates medical equipment on Ranil’s request – The Island

Zhang Yingbao, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Colombo handing over a stock of medical equipment to UNP Chairman former Minister Wajira Abeywardena at the Embassy.
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Afghanistan

NATO Chief Blames Afghan Leaders for State’s Collapse: Tolo News

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday in a meeting of NATO envoys blamed Afghanistan’s political and military leadership for the quick collapse of the former government.
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UNDP Forecast: 97% of Afghans in Poverty by Mid-2022: Tolo News

The UNDP says if urgent actions to support the people of Afghanistan are not taken, an economic crisis will engulf the country.
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Qatar’s FM arrives in Kabul, first FM to meet Taliban’s interim cabinet: The Khaama Press

Qatar’s foreign minister and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Muhammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani arrives in Kabul on Sunday, September 12, and met with the Taliban’s head of government. Al-Thani has visited Kabul several times since the Taliban takeover this is his first visit after the Taliban announced their caretaker government.
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Universities to resume in a week, new curriculum will be discussed upon: Taliban: The Khaama Press

Ministry of higher education of Afghanistan said that they have been busy discussing issues with the educational association and will resume all universities across the country as soon as they come over the problems.
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Uniformed Police to be Stationed in Kabul: Tolo News

The current Taliban forces who are stationed in Kabul will soon be replaced with police forces of the former government and Taliban forces and all will have uniforms, the Taliban said on Sunday
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Bangladesh

PM gives Tk 15cr to healthcare- Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has diverted Tk 15 crore, allocated for the procurement of vehicles for her office, to the cause of people’s healthcare services.
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Prof Yunus, 3 others sued in labour court- Daily Star

Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, also chairman of Grameen Telecom, and its three other top officials have been sued on charges of violating labour laws.
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PM Hasina: Development projects must not harm environment- Dhaka Tribune

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday stressed the importance of keeping the environment in mind while taking any development project.
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BNP resumes organizational activities after Covid-break- Dhaka Tribune

The BNP resumed its organizational activities on Sunday after a long suspension due to the coronavirus outbreak.
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Schools-colleges resume classes- New Asian Age

Schools and colleges across the country resumed classes on Sunday after nearly one and a half years due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Dhaka seeks Moscow’s support- New Asian Age

Foreign Minister A K Abdul Momen has sought Russian support in repatriation of Myanmar’s Rohingyas.
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Khaleda must return to jail for permission to go abroad: Law Minister- Daily Observer

Law Minister Anisul Huq on Sunday said BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia must return to jail for submitting a fresh application seeking permission to go abroad for treatment.
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Newly-elected lawmaker Habibur Rahman takes oath- Daily Observer

Habibur Rahman, who has been elected as the member of the parliament (MP) after winning the by-elections to Sylhet-3 constituency of parliament recently, has taken oath.
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Dhaka hopes to get EU’s duty-free quota-free facility even after LDC graduation- Financial Express

Dhaka hopes that the European Union (EU) will continue providing duty-free and quota-free (DFQF) facility to its markets for Bangladeshi products.
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Bhutan

LhengyeZhungtshog Act comes into force- Kuensel

The LhengyeZhungtshog Act, which has some bearings on the functioning of the government, has come into force.
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There is nothing called “Herd Immunity” in this fight- Kuensel

he success that Bhutan has so far had with and in controlling the Covid-19 cases in the country is in danger of being a monumental waste.
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Political parties divided on govt’s plan on plan model- Kuensel

The Opposition Party raised its concerns over the ruling party’s decision to ‘discontinue drafting the Five-Year Plan’.
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Ruling party members unhappy with labour minister selection – Kuensel

he Prime Minister’s decision to pick the newly elected Nganglam’s Member of Parliament (MP) Karma Dorji as the labour minister has caused disgruntlement among many ruling party MPs.
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Former NA Speaker donates Nu 30 M to monastic institutions- BBS

The former National Assembly speaker, DashoUgyenDorji, and his family donated Nu 30 M as an endowment fund to six shedras and monasteries across the country.
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Public servants’ discontent with eDATS- Business Bhutan

The electronic Daily Allowance and Travel System (eDATS) was implemented on July 1 this year, but public servants are not happy with the system.
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Maldives

COVID-19: 18 islands are under monitoring – Edition

Eighteen islands in Maldives are under monitoring due to community spread of COVID-19 present within its population.Travel to and out of the islands under monitoring by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) are prohibited unless it is for an essential reason.
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Over 32,000 tourist arrivals recorded within first week of September – Raajje

Maldives has recorded over 32,000 tourist arrivals, within the first week of September.
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China, Maldives enjoy mutual, tangible benefits from BRI cooperation: Chinese envoy – ECNS

China’s new Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin has said that China and the Maldives enjoy mutual and tangible benefits from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation.
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Police investigate bomb threats scribbled on mosque pillar – Raajje

Maldives Police Service (MPS) has begun investigating bomb threats scribbled on a pillar of a mosque in Malé City.
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Evolving dynamics and impact on Sri Lanka and Maldives – Daily News

Sri Lankan Media Minister and Cabinet Spokesperson DullasAlahapperuma has since said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has directed the Foreign Ministry to discuss the situation in Afghanistan and to announce Sri Lanka’s stand on it.
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Myanmar

Myanmar’s shadow government declares ‘resistance war’ against military junta – Myanmar Now

Myanmar’s acting president DuwaLashi La of the National Unity Government (NUG) announced on Tuesday that the people’s “resistance war” against the junta had started and urged the public across the country to revolt against the military coup regime led by Min Aung Hlaing.
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Deadly unrest reported in Myanmar after opposition urges ‘defensive war’ – Reuters

At least 20 people have been killed in fighting between militias and Myanmar’s ruling military, a witness and local media said on Friday, in the worst violence since opponents of the junta called this week for a “people’s defensive war”.
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China’s complex role in Myanmar draws anxiety from Myanmar govt – Sify

China has been pursuing a duplicitous policy towards Myanmar which hinges on border security, relations between Beijing and Naypyitaw and Chinas ambitious BRI projects in Myanmar.
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Relief Agencies Should Push for Independent Access to Myanmar’s Rakhine State – The Diplomat

Since February, when Myanmar’s military, known as the Tatmadaw, staged a coup against the government of Aung San Suu Kyi, Rakhine State in the west of the country has stood out.
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Rethinking Sustainable Solution To Rohingya Crisis: Limits Of World Bank’s Proposal – Eurasia Review

Washington-based global lender the World Bank, through concessional lending arms, has gone to bat for Bangladesh to foster its development initiatives since 1972; committing more than $30 billion by backing priorities in economic, social and infrastructural development.
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Myanmar army & civilians clash near border, 100 flee to Mizoram – Times of India

Intense fighting between the Chinland Defense Force (CDF) coomprising armed civilians led by Chin National Army (CNA) cadres and the Myanmar army broke out at Lungler village in Myanmar opposite Thingsai village in Mizoram early on Friday morning.
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Myanmar Military Tells Muslims Not to Contact Arakan Army – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military has warned Muslim village leaders in Kyauktaw Township, Rakhine State, not to complain to the ethnic Rakhine armed group, the Arakan Army, and its political wing the United League of Arakan.
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Loading up for a wider war in Myanmar – Asia Times

The rains that begin in May and end in October mark a year in and year out respite in the various brush wars that have flared for decades in Myanmar’s borderlands.
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Nepal

MCC Vice President Sumar ‘encouraged by support received to compact’- Nepal Live Today

Vice President of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Fatema Z. Sumar has said that she is encouraged by the support the compact has received.
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House Speaker Sapkota calls for all-party meeting- Nepal Live Today

Following frequent House obstruction by the main opposition CPN-UML, Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota has called for an all-party meeting for Monday.
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New directive for uniformity in govt office websites- Himalaya

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has issued a ‘Directive Related to Development and Management of Website of Government Offices, 2021’ exercising the powers conferred by Section 45 of the Good Governance (Management and Operation) Act, 2006.
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CPN-UML continues to obstruct Parliament- Himalaya

CPN-UML lawmakers obstructed proceedings of both the houses of the Parliament, accusing Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota of being biased against their party.
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Coalition partners fail to agree on Cabinet expansion- Kathmandu Post

While CPN (Unified Socialist) wants Deuba to wait until Monday, Janata Samajbadi says it won’t join the government unless the party split provisions are changed.
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Nepali Congress race hotting up as party braces for November convention- Kathmandu Post

In a little over two months, the Nepali Congress will hold its general convention. And the grand old party’s jamboree in the cold November this time is likely to see hotly contested elections, with around half a dozen aspirants vying for the party presidency.
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Kasthamandap reconstruction: The tough task has taught lessons about Kathmandu’s ancient architecture- Online Khabar

Locally, Nepal to bring the traditional technology in a structured syllabus and teach them. Nepal needs to attract the abroad-going young ones to it.
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Government To Spend 10% Capital Budget A Month- Rising Nepal

inance Minister Janardan Sharma ‘Prabhakar’ said that the programmes that wouldn’t give any result to people and the economy but would add additional burden on the state coffers are scrapped through the Replacement Bill 2021/22.
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In a ‘bhai-bhai ka rishta’, Nepal refuses to be India’s younger brother. It wants equality- The Print

Unfortunately for Nepal, both these markers are shared, the former in terms of the common Buddhist heritage with India, and the latter with China.
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Pakistan

PTI leads in KP Cantt elections, PML-N in Punjab: Dawn

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) were well ahead in their respective strongholds of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Punjab, according to unofficial results of 191 wards of the 35 out of 39 cantonment boards, where elections were held on Sunday.
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Freezing of Afghan accounts to create crisis: Sheikh Rashid: Dawn

Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Sunday said it would be unfair for the world to expect that Afghanistan would become as prosperous as some Scandinavian country in eight days and cautioned that freezing of Afghan accounts could create a humanitarian crisis.
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Pakistan participates in trilateral ‘Brotherhood’ military drills in Azerbaijan: The Express Tribune

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the exercise will be conducted in the counter-terrorism domain from September 11 to 22, 2021.
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Qureshi urges Danish counterpart to ease travel restrictions on Pakistanis: The Express Tribune

During a telephonic conversation with Jeppe Kofod, Qureshi said that the restrictions should be reviewed with regard to an improvement in the situation pertaining to security and the pandemic.
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58 more die, 3,153 new corona cases reported: The News

The national tally of total active COVID-19 cases was recorded at 91,015 on Sunday with 3,153 more people testing positive for the deadly virus and 3,797 people recovering from the disease during the past 24 hours.
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PMDA issue: Journalists hold protest in London: The News

Pakistani journalists in Britain condemned the Pakistan government’s plans seeking unchecked powers to punish journalists and news organisations to further implement the draconian censorship.
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Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka to feel the pinch in Geneva – Daily Mirror

The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) will open its regular September session in Geneva today with Sri Lanka on the agenda.
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5,444 COVID-19 cases detected over the weekend – Daily FT

Weekend COVID-19 detections rose to 5,444, with 2,802 persons testing positive for COVID-19 on Saturday and 2,642 persons testing positive for COVID-19 yesterday.
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‘SL likely to seek IMF loan this month’ – The Morning

First Capital Research has announced in its mid-year outlook that it is highly likely that Sri Lanka will negotiate an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme within the current quarter, which ends this month.
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Drafting of new constitution: Final draft in November – The Morning

The expert committee appointed to draft a new constitution has sought a three-month extension to submit the final draft to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa while an initial draft is being studied by the Legal Draftsman’s Department.
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Afghanistan

US Sec. Blinken: Relations ‘Will Depend’ on Taliban Actions: Tolo News

US State Secretary Antony Blinken in an exclusive interview with Lotfullah Najafizada of TOLOnews said the United States has achieved what it went to Afghanistan to accomplish and the main aim was to suppress Al-Qaeda, which has been vastly “degraded.”Click here to read…

Political Party Leaders Protest Cabinet Choices: Tolo News

Several of Afghanistan’s major political parties on Wednesday reacted to the Taliban’s new caretaker government which was announced late Tuesday, saying that the cabinet is not inclusive and that political parties have been excluded. Click here to read…

Women protest against newly announced cabinet of Taliban: The Khaama Press

Tens of women in Kabul took to the streets to protest against the all-men cabinet announced as caretaker government by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan on Tuesday, September 7. Click here to read…

Taliban monopolize power in Afghanistan, will not last longer: Salahudin Rabbani: The Khaama Press

Head of Afghanistan’s second-largest political part-Jamiat Islami- Salahudin Rabbani reacted to the caretaker government of the Taliban and said that a government which composed of a single ethnic group will not last long. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Dhaka seeks unity against vaccine inequity to accelerate economic recovery efforts- Dhaka Tribune

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has said a successful pandemic recovery must involve universal vaccination ending vaccine inequality. Click here to read…

High Court orders to include Bangabandhu’s March 7 speech in textbooks- Dhaka Tribune

The court has also directed authorities to expedite the work of building Bangabandhu’s sculpture at Suhrawardy Udyan. Click here to read…

Faridul: Pre-registered, registered people can perform hajj if Covid situation improves- Dhaka Tribune

Pre-registered and registered will be able to go to hajj on priority basis in Saudi Arabia if the coronavirus situation improves in 2022 and Bangladesh gets permission to send pilgrims for hajj. Click here to read…

Air Astra, newest Bangladeshi airline, set to take the skies in Jan 2022- The Daily Star

Apart from the national flag carrier – Biman Bangladesh Airlines – two other private airlines, namely US-Bangla and Novoair, are currently operating flights. Click here to read…

‘Govt strives to reach land services at people’s hand’- Asian Age

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday said her government has been trying to bring land related services to the hands of people to reduce their sufferings and harassments through digitization of the land management system. Click here to read…

‘BD to get vaccines from India soon’- Asian Age

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Vikram Kumar Doraiswami has said that Bangladesh will get vaccines from India soon. Click here to read…

Fresh flood feared in Bangladesh as India opens Gajoldoba again- New Age

This is the sixth time since June that the Gajoldoba barrage floodgates were opened causing inundation in low-lying areas in downstream Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

New academic assessment in schools is timely: experts- Kuensel

Despite criticism on the implementation of the new assessment criteria in schools, experts say that its introduction is timely and critical to the success of the National School Curriculum (NSC) implemented beginning this academic session. Click here to read…

Bhutan shares its Covid-19 success story- Kuensel

Bhutan’s Covid-19 journey so far has been one of the most successful compared to most countries in the region and across the world. Click here to read…

Mobile network issue in Bumthang to be solved by this winter- BBS

Although reports show that Bumthang has a hundred percent mobile network accessibility, not every area in the district enjoys full network coverage. Both B-mobile and Tashi-Cell users in Bumthang are upset with the network issues. Click here to read…

Businesses trying to stay afloat in Phuentshogling- BBS

Phuentshogling town, considered the commercial hub of the country, is idle today. Due to several lockdowns and other challenges caused by the frequent COVID outbreaks, business in the region has been severely affected. Click here to read…

PDP calls on govt. to implement new school assessment rule- Business Bhutan

A student now has to score at least 40% in both written exam and continuous assessments, as per the new assessment criteria The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) calls on the government to implement the new school assessment rule from the new academic session. Click here to read…

Maldives

Police: Cocaine smuggling to Maldives on the rise -Edition

Police said on Tuesday that the smuggling of cocaine to Maldives have increased recently. The Parliamentary Petition Committee held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss the petition submitted by “Hands Together”, calling to change the management of National Drug Agency (NDA). They were an NGO advocating and promoting the rights and care for addicts in Maldives. Click here to read…

Illegal sand mining in the East for a Maldives island – Srilanka Mirror

Sand is being illegally mined from various places in the Eastern Province to build an island in the Maldives, said Tamil National Alliance Batticaloa District MP Chanakya Rasamanikkam in parliament yesterday (7). He alleged that those behind this illegal activity are a Minister from Sri Lanka Freedom Party, MPs from the SLPP and are supported by the Governor as well. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Pakistan Defense Delegation Made Unannounced Visit to Myanmar Capital – The Irrawaddy

According to well-informed sources in Naypyitaw, the delegation arrived there on Sept. 1 and left on Sept. 5. It is believed that during their stay, the Pakistani delegation and Myanmar military leaders held talks on advanced ordnance technology, aircraft repair and maintenance, and naval munitions. Click here to read…

The Eastern Window: The significance of China’s rail link with Myanmar – Money Control

China has finally connected with the Indian Ocean by establishing a rail-road linkage through Myanmar. This is an important milestone in Beijing’s efforts to create an economic corridor along the lines of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Click here to read…

Hostile Territory: Behind the Indian Government’s Response to the New Refugee Stream from Myanmar – Parichay Blog

The key premise that the Modi government cited while closing India’s borders to the fleeing Myanmar refugees or sending those who had already entered back to Myanmar is that India is not a state party to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention or its 1967 Optional Protocol. In itself, this isn’t wrong.Click here to read…

Myanmar shadow government calls for revolt against military rule – Reuters

Myanmar’s shadow government, formed by opponents of military rule, called for a nationwide uprising against the junta on Tuesday, amid reports of new protests and a flare-up in fighting between the army and ethnic military groups. Click here to read…

Nepal

UML stalls House proceedings- Himalaya

CPN-UML lawmakers stalled proceedings in both Houses of the Parliament today accusing Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota of being complicit in the ‘conspiracy’ to split their party. Click here to read…

MCC responds to Nepal’s concerns ahead of its top officials’ arrival- Kathmandu Post

A day before the visit of its officials to Nepal, the US-based Millennium Challenge Corporation on Wednesday responded to Nepal’s Finance Ministry, trying to assuage concerns raised in Nepal regarding the MCC Nepal Compact, under which the country would receive $500 million in grants. Click here to read…

Shakya’s minority government in Bagmati appoints new ministers – Kathmandu Post

The 56-member single largest party CPN-UML is now reduced to 43 members in the province, and Shakya needs 12 members to achieve a majority. Click here to read…

Nepal faces shortfall of investment worth Rs 558 billion annually to meet targets of the SDGs- Republica

Nepal has faced a shortfall of investment worth Rs 558 billion annually to achieve its targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Click here to read…

National Census, 2021 to start on November 11- Republica

The National Census, 2021 that was affected due to ongoing COVID-19 has been rescheduled for November 11-25. Click here to read…

KP Sharma Oli wrongly refers to little people of Africa as ‘Lilliput’- Online Khabar

In his almost hour-long speech, Oli attacked the parties in the ruling alliance, particularly the Madhav Kumar Nepal-led splinter group and the Maoists. Click here to read…

Govt Says: Only Health Institutions Can Operate Ambulances- Rising Nepal

The government has issued ‘National Ambulance Directive- 2021’ to regulate ambulance services and make them systematic, transport sick and injured person to hospital safely. Click here to read…

More Local Representatives Join CPN (Unified Socialist) – Rising Nepal

More local level representatives of the CPN-UML have joined the newly formed CPN (Unified Socialist) in many districts across the country. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan hopes new Taliban govt will work for peace and security in Afghanistan: FO: Dawn

In its first official comment on the government announced by the Taliban, Pakistan on Wednesday expressed the hope that the new political dispensation will work for peace and security in Afghanistan and address its people’s humanitarian needs. Click here to read…

National Command Authority expresses concern over ‘destabilising’ arms build-up in the region: Dawn

The National Command Authority (NCA) on Wednesday noted with concern the “destabilising massive arms build-up” in the region, affirming that Pakistan would take all measures to ensure strategic stability in its neighbourhood without entering into an arms race. Click here to read…

PM Imran launches cadastral map of Islamabad to ‘defeat qabza groups’: Dawn

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday launched the cadastral map of Islamabad to curb land record tampering, ensure monitoring of construction through imagery and provide information about land ownership. Click here to read…

Pakistan values its relations with EU countries: COAS: The Express Tribune

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday said Pakistan valued its relations with European Union (EU) countries and was earnestly looking forward to enhancing mutually beneficial multi-domain relations based on common interests. Click here to read…

PIA brings 5.9m Covid doses from China: The Express Tribune

Special cargo flights – PK-6852 and PK-6853 took off from Beijing for Islamabad on Monday and Tuesday and transported 5.9 million doses, Qadir Bux Sangi, PIA Country Manager for China said on Tuesday. Click here to read…

Journalists, lawyers, HR activists announce joint struggle against PMDA: The News

Announcing a joint struggle for the freedom of judiciary and media in Pakistan, lawyers, journalists and civil society activists have made it clear that the government’s efforts to enslave the judiciary and media in the name of the Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) will be fought vigorously. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka added to US CDC high risk country list – ECONOMYNEXT

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added Sri Lanka, Jamacia and Brunei to its highest-risk list countries that had reported over 500 COVID-cases per 100,000 people over a 28 day period.Click here to read…

2,917 more persons test positive for COVID-19 – Daily FT

Daily COVID-19 detections dropped below 3,000 yesterday, with 2,964 persons testing positive for COVID-19.Click here to read…

Scale-up routine immunisation along with COVID-19 vaccination: WHO – The Island

The World Health Organization has urged countries in South Asia Region to enhance routine immunization along with the ongoing efforts to rapidly increase COVID-19 vaccination coverage. Click here to read…

Foreign Ministry sets record straight on PM’s visit to Italy – Daily FT

The Foreign Ministry yesterday set the record straight on the upcoming visit to Italy by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa saying it does not include a call on the Vatican.Click here to read…

Sri Lanka fails to sell 51-pct of Treasuries auction amid price controls – ECONOMYNEXT

Sri Lanka has failed to sell 51 percent of a 64 billion rupee Treasuries auction, despite a ceiling rate being raised 08 basis points to 6.05 percent, data from the debt office showed. Click here to read…