Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

Curbing money laundering through AI: The Daily Star

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

Too much money, too less credit: Kuensel Online

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

Tsirang villages struggle with waste management challenges : Kuensel Online

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

For energy-secure Bhutan: Kuensel Online

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

Government halts 2,560MW Sunkosh project :Kuensel Online

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

Maldives

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

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

54 percent of Lhaimagu Harbor completed: Raajje

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

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

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

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

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

Indian High Commission office building relocated to Hulhumale’: Avas

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

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

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal

Climate-smarter Himalayan infrastructure: Nepali Times

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

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

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

Resetting Nepal-China ties: The Kathmandu Post

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

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

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

Pakistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

Afghanistan

MoHE Forms Directorate of Academic Curriculum: Tolo News

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

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

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

Bangladesh

Dhaka, Delhi agree to strengthen defence cooperation: Dhaka Tribune

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

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

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

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

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

Maldives

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

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

Maldives to welcome one-millionth tourist on Friday – Avas

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

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

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal

China, Nepal vow to step up cooperation – China Daily

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka

Govt. directly handles matter with Chinese Embassy: Daily Mirror

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

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

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

Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

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

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

Bangladesh textile faces major challanges amid global recession: ThePrint

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

Bhutan

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

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

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

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

Reopening Bhutan draws tour operators – Travel Weekly

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

Maldives

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

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

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

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

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

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

Report of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar – IIMM UN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal

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

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

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

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

Foreign employment revival – Nepali Times

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

The 1949 Geneva Conventions and Nepal – Kathmandu Post

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

Pakistan

The nation at 75: Dawn

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

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

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

Sheikh Rasheed warns govt against arresting Imran Khan: The News

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

Sri Lanka

Prez: Military saved Parliament, democracy: The Island

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maldives

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dragging Russia Into the Myanmar Conflict – The Irrawaddy

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

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

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

Nepal

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

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

Will Nepal vote for change?

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

Environment Minister Yadav pledges to free Nepal from plastic pollution

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

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

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

Nepalese Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka to visit China

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

Afghanistan

MoD Requests Helicopters Be Returned to Afghanistan: Tolo News

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

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

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

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

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

Eastern refinery not expanded in 53 years: The Daily Star

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

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

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

Bhutan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maldives

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

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

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

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh Seeks China Help to Repatriate Rohingya Refugees – VOA News

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

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

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

Nepal

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

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

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

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

Landslides affect seven hydropower projects in Myagdi – The Himalayan Times

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

Nepal Mental Health Initiative launches its website – The Annapurna Express

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

Pakistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

Afghanistan

Biden: Al Qaeda Chief Zawahiri Killed in US Drone Strike in Kabul: Tolo News

US President Joe Biden in a live address said: “Justice has been delivered” in US strike killing al-Qaida leader al-Zawahri; “this terrorist leader is no more.” He confirmed reports that began hours earlier about the attack. Click here to read…

Tashkent Mtg Participants Show Readiness to Engage With Kabul: Tolo News

Attending a session held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, the acting foreign minister said the Tashkent International conference was a good opportunity for engagement between the international community and Afghanistan. Minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi urged countries to accredit Islamic Emirate diplomats in order to create official engagement. Click here to read…

Joint Committee for Preventing Border Skirmishes to be Formed by Iran & Taliban: The Khaama Press

Hassan Kazemi Qomi, Iran’s special representative for Afghanistan, stated that a meeting was held with Iranian representatives and the Ministry of Defense of the Taliban government, announcing the formation of a joint committee to prevent border clashes. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Rise in remittance, dip in imports: Some breathing space for now: The Daily Star

The country’s economy has got a welcome respite from the ongoing volatility, thanks to a rise in remittance inflow and decrease in imports last month.Imports in July fell by 31 percent to $5.50 billion from $7.96 billion a month ago while remittance went up by 14 percent to $2.09 billion from $1.83 billion, shows Bangladesh Bank data.

Bangabandhu Mobile Railway Museum starts nationwide displaying: Dhaka Tribune

The “Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Mobile Rail Museum”’ has started its journey on the tracks on Monday, to convey the ideals and struggles of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to the people of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bangladesh receives ‘International Peace Award’: Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh has received “International Peace Award ” as one of the founding member of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation. The foundation on Monday handed over the award over the award comprising of a crest and a letter to Mosud Mannan, ambassador of Bangladesh to Turkey accredited to Georgia. Click here to read…

PM Modi, Sheikh Hasina to inaugurate Maitree Power Project in Bangladesh: Hindustan Times

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina are expected to jointly inaugurate the 1320 MegaWatt Maitree Super Thermal Power Station when the latter visits India for a three-day visit in the first week of September. Touted to be Bangladesh’s largest power plant, the coal-fired station is being set up by Bangladesh India Friendship Power Company Limited, a 50:50 joint venture between India’s NTPC and Bangladesh Power Development Board. The project is worth USD 1.5 billion. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Is Bhutan’s economy headed for a similar economic crisis like Sri Lanka? – The Statesman

After the economic crisis of Sri Lanka, Pakistan’s name has been doing the rounds in the list f troubled economies. However, the latest entry in the list of economies facing acute crisis, is that of Bhutan. The import of non-essential goods could be discouraged and even restricted to control the widening trade deficit and protect the depleting foreign currency reserve. Click here to read…

Army Chief meets Bhutan King in Thimphu; focus on further boosting enduring strategic ties – The Hindu

Chief of Army Staff Gen Manoj Pande has met Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and other top civil and military leaders of Bhutan with a focus on further boosting enduring strategic ties. Click here to read…

ADB approves $10m loan to help Bhutan buy COVID-19 vaccines – Devidiscourse

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $10 million loan to help the Government of Bhutan purchase safe and effective vaccines against COVID-19. The project is part of ADB’s $9 billion Asia Pacific Vaccine Access Facility (APVAX) launched in December 2020 to offer vaccine-related support to ADB developing member countries. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives President Ibrahim Solih meets EAM Jaishankar in Delhi – Times of India

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on August 01 met External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar at Hyderabad House in Delhi. President Solih is on a 4-day official visit to India. Click here to read…

Maldives confirms 183 new Covid-19 cases – Raajje

This was revealed by the Health Protection Agency ((HPA) in its latest figures publicized on Monday. As such, statistics revealed that between July 24 – 30, a total of 183 new Covid-19 infections were confirmed nationwide, including 33 from the Greater Malé Region, 85 from residential islands outside of the capital and 65 reported from others including industrial islands, liveaboard vessels and resorts. Click here to read…

Male Connectivity Project: India-Maldives mega infrastructure push – WIONews

In a major boost to ties between India and Maldives, the ground-breaking ceremony of the Maldives biggest infrastructure project will be held today in New Delhi. Maldives President is in New Delhi on a four-day visit. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Junta Extends State of Emergency – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military government has extended a state of emergency by six months, state media said Monday, with the junta chief saying elections could only take place when the conflict-wracked country was “stable and peaceful”. Click here to read…

Role Of External Powers In Keeping The Myanmar Military In Power – Analysis – Eurasia Review

The Myanmar junta is losing on the military and economic fronts. And yet, it stays in power because the major regional and global powers either pussyfoot on it or support it in one way or another, experts on the country say. Click here to read…

Myanmar military charges eight Mrauk-U men with incitement – BNI Online

The Myanmar military has filed an incitement lawsuit against eight residents in Arakan State’s Mrauk-U Township under Section 505(a) of the Penal Code at the Mrauk-U District Court, according to family members of the accused. Click here to read…

Three Brotherhood Alliance Condemns Regime Executions – BNI Online

The Three Brotherhood Alliance has criticised the execution of four political prisoners by the military regime, which threatens to further isolate them. “It is also totally against the ASEAN 5-point proposal…It is also against the path of national reconciliation proposed by the (ruling) State Administration Council (SAC),” said a 27 July joint statement by member groups, Palaung State Liberation Army/Ta’ang National Liberation Army (PSLF/TNLA), United League of Arakan/Arakan Army and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. Click here to read…

Nepal

Nepal cenbank governor sees no need for IMF loan as tourism earnings rise – Reuters

Nepal sees no need to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a fresh loan as pressure on foreign exchange reserves is easing after a pick up in tourism, its central bank governor said on Monday. Click here to read…

Human trafficking in India and Nepal – NewsUS

With economic opportunities further dwindling after the pandemic, millions more are at risk of Human trafficking across the world. Up to 800,000 people are estimated to be trafficked within Asia each year. In South Asia, India and Nepal are two of the most affected countries. Click here to read…

Nepal’s tea sector sees trouble brewing as India mulls restrictions on imports – The Kathmandu Post

Nepali tea producers and traders have been concerned ever since India’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce in June asked the Indian government to apply stringent requirements for the certificate of origin on tea imported from Nepal. Click here to read…

China wary of Indian influence in Nepal – Tribune India

Reports suggest that the Chinese are unhappy that Ambassador Hou Yanqui was unable to prevent Nepal PM Deuba from proposing the Millennium Challenge Corporation, though the Chinese did scuttle America’s State Partnership Programme. They claim the latter is also a military alliance that allows US troops to enter Nepal at will and use its facilities and infringes Nepal’s sovereignty.Click here to read…

Nepal becoming Dialogue Partner of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) – SangriToday

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has given the status of Dialogue Partner to Nepal. It is being considered a sign of Nepal’s growing international identity. But many Nepalese diplomats believe that while strengthening ties with the new group, now Nepal will have to proceed more carefully in the diplomatic realm. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Imran issues fresh call for protest outside ECP office in Islamabad on August 4: Dawn

PTI chairman Imran Khan on Monday issued a call for a fresh protest outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) office in Islamabad on Thursday (August 4) to demand Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja’s resignation. Click here to read…

Inflation jumps to 14-year high of 24.9pc: The News

Consumer price index (CPI) inflation rose to 24.93 per cent in July, whereas in July 2021, it was recorded at 8.4 per cent, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistic. That compares with a 21.3 per cent jump in June. This level was last seen in August 2008. Click here to read…

IK’s negligence led to foreign funding case: The News

Now that the PTI foreign funding verdict will be announced today (Tuesday), one needs to know what led Akbar S Babar, the founding member of the party, to file the foreign funding case in the Election Commission of Pakistan. Click here to read…

Taliban-brokered TTP talks end in deadlock: The Express Tribune

The talks between Pakistan and the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have reached a deadlock as the militant group refused to budge from its demand for the reversal of the merger of erstwhile Fata with the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Closely monitoring ‘fast-moving situation’ in SL – UK: Daily Mirror

The UK government said that it is ‘closely monitoring the fast-moving situation, including the recent appointment of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as President’ in Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa ‘not accorded any privileges’ in S’pore: MFA: Daily Mirror

Singapore’s foreign minister said yesterday that former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was not being accorded any privileges or immunity in Singapore. Rajapaksa landed in Singapore on July 14, a day after fleeing his crisis-ridden country via Maldives and following a popular uprising that forced him to resign as president. Click here to read…

Sampanthan, Wimal, Champika ready to join all-party govt.: The Island

TNA leader R Sampanthan, NFF leader Wimal Weerawansa and Patali Champika Ranawaka have expressed their willingness to join an all-party government. Weerawansa and Ranawaka, in response to a letter by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, have written that they are willing to join an all-party government to save the country. Click here to read…

Agriculture Ministry urges govt. to halt rice imports: The Island

The Agriculture Ministry yesterday informed the Cabinet that there were enough rice stocks in the country, and rice imports had to be suspended. Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said that he requested the Cabinet to suspend the import of rice until December. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Interior Ministry Denies ‘Drone Attack’ in Kabul: Tolo News

The Interior Ministry denies allegations of a drone attack in Kabul.
Abdul Nafi Takoor, a spokesman of the Interior Ministry, said that a rocket hit an empty residence in the Sherpor area of Kabul city, adding there were “no casualties.” Click here to read…

Tashkent Meeting Analysis: Central Asia Wants Path to South Asia: Tolo News

Some of the participants at the Tashkent conference said that the Central Asian nations, particularly Uzbekistan, are seeking to connect to South Asia via Afghanistan. Analysts said that the formation of trade centers on the two sides of the Amu River will benefit Afghanistan and Central Asian countries. Click here to read…

Former NDS Director Says American Drones Struck Different Locations of Afghan Capital: The Khaama Press

Rahmatullah Nabil, former director of the Afghan National Directorate of Security (NDS), claims that American drones were spotted in Kabul’s airspace and attacked various Kabul locations. Following reports of at least two explosions in the capital’s Wazir Akbar Khan and Sherpur areas, Nabil posted his statement on his Twitter handle. Click here to read…

Sunday Explosions in Afghan Capital Inflict No Immediate Casualties: Taliban Officials: The Khaama Press

Locals in the Kabul areas of Sherpur and Wazir Akbar Khan have reported two explosions, and there have also been reports of explosions in the Dehmazang area of the Afghan capital. According to Taliban security authorities, no immediate casualties were caused by the explosions on Sunday morningClick here to read…

Bangladesh

EC talks with parties: Supervisory govt sought for polls- The Daily Star

Nearly half of the 39 registered political parties are in favour of a polls-time government under interim, caretaker or all-party system for ensuring a participatory and credible parliamentary election. Click here to read…

“Chinese foreign minister’s upcoming Dhaka visit part of regular contacts”- The Daily Star

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen yesterday (July 31, 2022) said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s planned visit to Bangladesh next week is part of their “regular contacts. Click here to read…

AL’s income more than doubles- The Daily Star

The ruling Awami League last year earned Tk 21.23 crore, more than double what it earned in 2020. Click here to read…

Hasina, Modi to inaugurate Rampal plant from India- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi are expected to jointly inaugurate the Rampal power station during the former’s visit to India in September, reported The Hindustan Times yesterday. Click here to read…

‘Importing’ goods ‘Made in Bangladesh’- The Daily Star

A Chinese company housed in the Chattogram Export Processing Zone imported finished goods with “Made in Bangladesh” labels by declaring those as raw materials, in an incident that violated both local and international rulesClick here to read…

Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan To Get Expensive; Indian Tourists On Target As Country Imposes – Times Now News

Bhutan is set to open its border to tourists from September 23 after being shut since 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But with the latest announcement regarding sustainable development fees, touring Bhutan will not be the same as it was before the pandemic. Click here to read…

Army Chief calls on Bhutan King – Tribune India

Army Chief General Manoj Pande on Sunday called on Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, with discussions focused on enhancing ties between the two nations. The Chief received a Guard of Honour at ThimphuClick here to read…

Maldives

Maldives President to visit India from August 1 to 4 – Awaz The Voice

Announcing the viist, MEA Official Spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi said that Maldives is India’s key neighbour in the Indian Ocean region and occupies a special place in India’s Neighbourhood First policy. In recent years, the partnership has witnessed rapid growth in all areas of cooperation and President Solih’s upcoming official visit will provide an opportunity for the two leaders to review the progress made in this wide ranging partnership. Click here to read…

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

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

Myanmar

As Myanmar suffers, the military junta is desperate, isolated and running out of options – The Conversation

The military junta’s execution of four pro-democracy activists earlier this week has again shone a spotlight on the appalling judgement and brutality of the junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, and his top generals. Click here to read…

Defiance in Myanmar even as executions prompt fears for detained – Aljazeera

More than 70 people are on death row (others were sentenced in abstentia) for opposing the coup, including nine women, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), which has been tracking the military’s crackdown. AAPP says more than 2,100 civilians have been killed by the military since the coup, including dozens who have died in military custody. Click here to read…

Political situations have arisen due to improper use of political outlets: SAC’s chairman – Eleven Myanmar

Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of State Administration Council (SAC) said at the Union Government Meeting held in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday that Political situations have arisen due to improper use of political outlets. Click here to read…

Japanese video journalist detained at Myanmar protest march – ABC News

A Japanese video journalist has been detained by security forces in Myanmar while covering a protest against military rule in the country’s largest city, pro-democracy activists said Sunday. Click here to read…

Nepal

Government plans to hold elections on November 20: The Kathmandu Post

The elections for the federal and provincial elections will be held on November 20, two days later than the date proposed by the Election Commission, if there is no change in the government’s plan.Click here to read…

Protest to amend Transitional Justice Bill: The Himalayan

Victim groups protested at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu today against the flawed provisions in the bill to amend the Transitional Justice Law.
The protest was organised by Victims’ Society for Justice, Conflict Victim Women National Network, Conflict Victims’ Common Platform. The victims have objected to some of the provisions of the ‘Bill to amend the Commission for Investigation, Truth and Reconciliation Act, 2071’. Click here to read…

Janardan Sharma reinstated as finance minister: The Himalayan

CPN-Maoist Centre leader Janardan Sharma was today reinstated as finance minister two days after a parliamentary panel probe found no evidence to prove he was involved in making illegal changes to the budget. He took the oath of office and secrecy from President Bidhya Devi Bhandari today itself. Click here to read…

Nepal’s economic alarm bells: Himal

Every year, as the monsoon kicks in, there’s a feverish spurt of road-building and infrastructural development across Nepal. It has nothing to do with preparing Nepal’s notoriously accident-prone roads for the rains, but with a term that is peculiar to the country: asaare bikas. The Nepali fiscal year ends in the Hindu calendar month of Asaar (around mid-July), and since budgetary allocations under capital expenditures lapse at the end of the fiscal year, government departments rush to spend whatever they can before the fiscal year runs out. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Imran foresees general elections in ‘6-8 weeks’: The Express Tribune

Imran met with Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, former federal minister Moonis Elahi and other lawmakers from Punjab in Lahore. He asked the Punjab government to expedite the implementation of the PTI’s flagship social welfare project, the Ehsaas Programme. Click here to read…

Rs30bn taxes to be imposed to save PSO from default: Dawn

The government has decided to impose additional taxes to the tune of Rs30 billion as it struggles to arrange Rs100bn emergency funding to avoid international default on oil and gas payments and keep the staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) intact. Click here to read…

IMF likely to begin tranche release process this week: Dawn

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is likely to start the process for releasing the seventh and eighth tranches of a $6 billion loan programme for Pakistan later this week, IMF and diplomatic sources told Dawn. Click here to read…

Taliban-brokered TTP talks end in deadlock: The Express Tribune

The talks between Pakistan and the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have reached a deadlock as the militant group refused to budge from its demand for the reversal of the merger of erstwhile Fata with the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Lankan Batiks Promotion in Antalya, Turkey- The Island

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Turkey organized the second leg of the Sri Lankan Batiks promotional event with the assistance of the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka to Antalya Ali Kamburoglu recently (20), a statement issued by the Lankan Embassy in Ankara said. Click here to read…

UNICEF launches programme to help pre-school children- The Island

UNICEF Sri Lanka has launched a special relief package for pre-school children and mothers hardest hit by the current economic crisis., UNICEF said.The initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Colombo Municipal Council and Public Health midwives, will provide much-needed relief to the urban poor and most disadvantaged families, facing severe hardship and struggling to put food on their table. Click here to read…

Fueling a way forward for small and medium enterprises- The Island

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka together with the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA) has commenced an initiative to strengthen rural economies, increase forest cover, improve the living standards of rural women, and sustainable industries and small and medium enterprises in the country, by increasing the growth of suppliers for clean and modern biomass technology in line with the energy policy. Click here to read…

Maiden Policy Statement from President RW on Aug. 3- The Island

President Ranil Wickremesinghe is to deliver his maiden Policy Statement in Parliament at 11 am on Wednesday (03), Parliament sources said.The President is scheduled to commence the Third Session of the Ninth Parliament at 10 am with his Presidential Policy Statement (previously Throne Speech). Click here to read…

Lanka can’t afford fossil fuels but can’t afford to get off them either- The Island

Sri Lanka is in turmoil, with fuel and food shortages provoking citizens to storm the presidential palace and send Gotobaya Rajapaksa packing.Reliance on fossil fuel imports is a big factor in the economic crisis. Click here to read…

Japan hands over life-saving medicines procured through UNICEF to Lanka- The Island

In response to the ongoing economic crisis in Sri Lanka, the Government of Japan on Thursday handed over the first consignment of a total donation of USD 1.5 million value of medicines being procured through UNICEF to address the severe shortage of medicines in hospitals and clinics in the country. Click here to read…

World Bank plans to offer new financing to Lanka put off till macroeconomic policy framework in place- The Island

The World Bank Group expressing deep concern about the dire economic situation and its impact on the people of Sri Lanka yesterday said it does not plan to offer new financing to Sri Lanka until an adequate macroeconomic policy framework is in place. Click here to read…

WB halts new funding to Sri Lanka till viable programme is put in place- The Island

Until an adequate macroeconomic policy framework is in place, the World Bank does not plan to offer new financing to Sri Lanka, it was announced yesterday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Historical Heritage Neglected in Badakhshan: Tolo News

Cultural activists are concerned about the lack of attention to the historic heritage in Badakhshan province. Pul-e-Khishte is one of the historical heritage sites in Badakhshan province and it is 25 meters long and 5 meters wide. The history of this historical heritage site reportedly reaches back more than 100 years. Click here to read…

Islamic Emirate’s Leader Calls for Implementation of Sharia: Tolo News

Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said in a statement that the leader of the Islamic Emirate, Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada, held a gathering with the provincial governors in Kandahar. Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada stressed the need to preserve Islamic values, according to the statement. Click here to read…

U.S. Senators Urge UN to Take ‘Meaningful Actions’ in Defense of Afghans Rights: The Khaama Press

At least four American senators voiced their concerns over human rights violations in Afghanistan in a letter to the Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres, saying “we must not stand by as the Taliban seeks to erase the human rights of Afghan women and girls.” Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Concerted effort is the key- The Daily Star

Planning Minister MA Mannan yesterday said many areas regarding child development require concerted efforts. Click here to read…

Chinese foreign minister likely to visit Dhaka next month- The Daily Star

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to visit Dhaka early next month as the country wants to strengthen the strategic partnership with Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

TCB to assess readiness of hoteliers and operators- Kuensel

The Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) is validating and assessing tourism service providers – tour operators and hoteliers – on their readiness to welcome tourists under the new tariff regime beginning September 23 this year. Click here to read…

Youths draw attention to tiger conservation- Kuensel

Addressing the youth ambassadors, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, said: “Where tigers have vanished, the lands are barren and devoid of life forms. Put simply, the tiger is a barometer of life in our forests and, by extension, the health of our living planet.” Click here to read…

Bhutan needs to gear towards improving tourism infrastructure- Bhutan Times

3,500 licensed tour operators in the country will have to compete through the quality of services, programmes and facilities while providing itineraries to the tourists. This would mean the tour operators should start working to improve the facilities. Click here to read…

Maldives

President of Maldives on 4-day visit to India from August 1 – Indian Express

MALDIVES PRESIDENT Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will be coming on a four-day visit to India from August 1, which will provide an opportunity to review the progress made in the wide-ranging partnership. Click here to read…

Maldives CDF Maj Gen Abdulla Shamaal receives Guard of Honour in Delhi – ANI News

The Chief of Defence Force (CDF) of the Maldives, Major General Abdulla Shamaal, received a Guard of Honour at the South Block in Delhi on July 28. Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pandey accorded him a warm welcome to India. Click here to read…

Maldives industry fights higher tourism tax – TTG Asia

Raising the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (T-GST) to 16 per cent from 12 per cent effective next year would significantly impact Maldives’ tourism performance, particularly at a time when destination competition is intensifying post-lockdown, said industry stakeholders. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Engagement with Tatmadaw is key to peace in Assam and Northeast – NENow

Myanmar’s domestic political situation is extremely critical for India’s national interest. India shares a border of 1643 kilometers with Myanmar. Thus, a stable and friendly Myanmar is key to India’s security, especially in India’s Northeast. Click here to read…

India raises ‘deep concern’ over execution of 4 pro-democracy activists in Myanmar – The Print

India on Thursday expressed deep concern over the execution of four pro-democracy activists by Myanmar’s military government and asserted that the rule of law and democratic process must be upheld in the country. Click here to read…

Shan Armed Group Poised for Myanmar Junta Attack – The Irrawaddy

Military tensions are escalating between the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) and Myanmar’s regime in Mong Hsu Township, southern Shan Township, as junta reinforcements arrive in the town, according to residents. Click here to read…

Nepal

Upper House passes Citizenship Bill- Himalayan Times

The National Assembly today passed the Citizenship Bill, which will become a law when President Bidhya Devi Bhandari certifies it. The bill was sent to the Upper House after the House of Representatives passed it on July 23 through a fast-track process. Click here to read…

How probe turns into a farce: House panel says it found nothing against Sharma- Kathmandu Post

Committee is divided with ruling party members pressing for absolving ex-finance minister, as the four representatives from the CPN-UML write their dissent. Click here to read…

House endorses bill to amend Citizenship Act- Kathmandu Post

Once the bill gets through upper house, children of parents who got citizenship by birth will get citizenship by descent. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Import-ban-on-luxury-items-lifted: Dawn

The government has increased dealers’ commission on the sale of petroleum products by up to an unprecedented 70 per cent and lifted a ban imposed in May on the import of “non-essential and luxury items”, excluding automobiles, cell phones and electronics. Click here to read…

Editorial: false-equivalence: Dawn

CELEBRATING his party’s triumph in dislodging the PML-N government in Punjab, former prime minister and PTI chairman Imran Khan on Wednesday made what sounded unmistakably like a speech delivered on the hustings, by a man confident of the ultimate prize. Click here to read…

Elections to be held on time, govt to complete its tenure: PDM: The Express Tribune

Amid calls by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for snap polls in the country, the Pakistan Democratic Alliance (PDM) has reiterated its stance that the general elections will be held on time and the coalition government will complete its tenure. Click here to read…

Rupee’s downward spiral continues, inter-bank rate at Rs242: The Express Tribune

The Pakistani rupee hit a new all-time low of over Rs242 against the US dollar in the inter-bank market around midday on Thursday. The domestic currency slumped a fresh 2.64% (or Rs6.24) to Rs242.26 at around 12:08 pm compared to Wednesday’s close of Rs236.02. Click here to read…

Govt may increase petrol, diesel prices by Rs10-17per litre: The News

From August 01, 2022, there may be an increase in petrol and diesel prices by Rs10-17 per litre despite the fact that prices of petroleum products and crude oil remained just a little lower. However, the increase has been estimated upwards just because of the fact that the exchange rate has gone crazy. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Govt. initiates talks for all-party govt- The Daily Mirror

The government initiated negotiations with the parties in the opposition yesterday in a bid to form what is called ‘an all-party’ government. Click here to read…

CB issues guidelines to non-bank borrowers on loan concessions- The Daily Mirror

The Central Bank has issued fresh guidelines to the non-bank lenders stipulating how they must go about providing concessions to borrowers affected by the current economic crisis which is sending shockwaves across almost every sectorClick here to read…

Popular South Indian Actor Kamal Haasan discusses Sri Lanka- The Daily Mirror

On the invitation extended by Dr. D. Venkateshwaran, the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Chennai, famous South Indian Cinema actor Kamal Haasan and director, visited the Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission of Chennai for the first time in the Mission’s History on July 24. Click here to read…

Rs. 17.85 Million cash recovered inside President’s House: Police yet to keep recovered money in judicial custody- The Daily Mirror

It was transpired before Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court that even after the lapse of three weeks, the Fort Police is yet to keep Rs. 17.85 Million in cash recovered from the President’s House, under judicial custody. Click here to read…

Extension of state of emergency to hit tourism industry hard- The Daily Mirror

The decision to extend the state of emergency for a month by Parliament yesterday will further hit the tourism industry that is expected to bring in the necessary foreign exchange to Sri Lanka, as more countries could slap travel bans on Sri LankaClick here to read…

Afghanistan

Afghan Exports Surge in Past Three Months: Tolo News

Afghanistan’s exports doubled over the past three months compared to the same period in previous years, the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) said. According to the ACCI, during the first three months of the solar year of 1401, exports exceeded $400 millionClick here to read…

Second Phase of Kajaki Power Dam Completed: Tolo News

The second phase of the Kajaki power dam, now providing 100 megawatts of power, was inaugurated on Wednesday with senior officials of the Islamic Emirate and a top Turkish diplomat attending. Click here to read…

Afghanistan Economic Stabilization World Interest: U.S. Envoy: The Khaama Press

The United States Special Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West said that the United States is ready to support dialogue among Afghans, exclaiming such is the “world’s interest to stay focused on Afghanistan economic stabilizationClick here to read…

German FM Says ‘Every Human Right Has Been Taken From Women and Girls in Afghanistan’: The Khaama Press

Under Taliban rule, Afghanistan is experiencing the “biggest women’s rights violations on Earth,” according to German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. German media reported on Tuesday, July 26, that Annalena Baerbock, the foreign minister of Germany, had said that the Taliban’s rule over Afghanistan was a unique instance of egregious human rights abuses. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Solar irrigation pumps prove a boon for farmers- The Daily Star

Farmers who depend on rainwaters to grow Aman paddy in Dinajpur have been left distraught from early July owing to a drought-like situation in the absence of rains. Click here to read…

Land crisis key barrier- The Daily Star

Scarcity of land is the main obstacle to establishing playgrounds and parks in the capital, said Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh yesterday. Click here to read…

Govt may not remove interest rate caps- The Daily Star

Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal yesterday indicated that the government would be unwilling to remove the interest rate cap on loans and deposits, which is expected to be a condition tagged by the International Monetary Fund with its support package. Click here to read…

Barapukuria mine: Coal production resumes after three month- The Daily Star

Production at Barapukuria Coal Mining Company Limited (BCMCL) resumed yesterday after three months. Click here to read…

Forex reserves enough for 6-9 months’ food import: PM- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said Bangladesh would be able to meet six to nine months’ food import expenditures with its current forex reserves. Click here to read…

“No shortage in fuel stock, don’t pay heed to rumours”- The Daily Star

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Nasrul Hamid has called upon the public to not pay heed to any rumours regarding shortage in fuel stock in the country. Click here to read…

Preferential Trade Agreement among D-8 to be operational by October- The Daily Star

Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) among the D-8 countries is going to be operational by October this year, which could significantly boost trade in the bloc. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Supreme Court orders 7 workshop operators to vacate in 6 months- Kuensel

After nearly three years of litigations at various courts, the Supreme Court on July 20 finally decided that seven automobile workshop operators at Olakaha, Thimphu, have to vacate the properties. Click here to read…

Health ministry vigilant against monkeypox- Kuensel

With international borders opening for visitors from September 23, Bhutan strengthened its surveillance against monkeypox spread, according to officials of the health ministry. Click here to read…

Fuel price increases- Kuensel

Petrol price increased by Nu 1.57 per litre and diesel by chhetrum 59 per litre from midnight after the independent fuel pricing committee reviewed the appeal on the domestic fuel price model. Click here to read…

More than 3,500 holders of tourism licenses must compete- Bhutan Times

In order to compete, more than 3,500 licensed operators will need to offer high-quality services, programs, and facilities while providing tourists autonomy over their itineraries. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives government’s economic measures are good: IMF – Avas

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised the Maldives government’s efforts to improve the country’s reserves. A delegation from IMF visited the Maldives in late June to assess the country’s economic situation. Click here to read…

Maldives added to Indonesia’s on-arrival visa list – Raajje

The government of Indonesia has added Maldives to the list of countries granted visa-on-arrival. This was revealed by the Immigration department of Indonesia. The authority revealed that with the addition of Maldives to the list of countries granted on-arrival visa by the country, the list currently includes 75 countries. Click here to read…

A Single Use Plastics Free Maldives: Turning the Tide of Waste into Wealth – YouTube

Poorly managed plastic waste is threatening the marine ecosystem and economy of the Maldives, with over 860 metric tons of waste—the majority plastic—generated daily. In response, the government has adopted a waste to wealth approach, shifting from a linear “use and dispose” system of waste management to a circular economy. Two World Bank-financed projects, also supported by PROBLUE, have been helping the country develop a sustainable waste management system, build capacity, and teach youth to lay the groundwork for a cleaner and safer Maldives. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Regime’s Brutality Began Long Before The Coup – Analysis – Eurasia Review

For over a year, members of the Tatmadaw, the Myanmar military, have been fighting a civil war against the country’s people. After the overthrow in 2021 of the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, remnants of her party, the National League for Democracy, and armed groups it is linked to under the umbrella People’s Defense Force, have been leading a tenacious resistance against the junta. Click here to read…

Asean must recognise hard truths about Myanmar – NST

THE Asean Ministerial Meeting (AMM) next week will see more discussions on one of its most intractable conundrums — how the regional organisation manages its relationship with Myanmar’s military junta, which is murdering its own dissenting population. Click here to read…

Asean foreign ministers urged to keep Rohingya issue in sight – Malaysia Now
The special envoy of the United Nations secretary-general on Myanmar Noeleen Heyzer has urged Asean foreign ministers to keep the Rohingya issue high on their agendas, highlighting as well the community’s need for education to prevent a “lost generation”. Click here to read…

In Myanmar and abroad, anti-junta protests continue after executions of four pro-democracy activists – France 24

The executions of four pro-democracy activists in Myanmar by the military junta not only attracted international condemnation but also fuelled anti-junta demonstrations that have been taking place in the country since early 2021. The FRANCE 24 Observers spoke to demonstrators in Myanmar and abroad for whom the junta’s brutality only served as a catalyst for their determination to achieve democracy. Click here to read…

Nepal

Monetary Policy to uplift economy, but has its own challenges: CBFIN- Himalayan Times

Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has taken into consideration the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, various world events, country’s economic indicators and aspirations of the general public. Click here to read…

President appoints ambassadors to various countries- Himalayan Times

President Bidya Devi Bhandari has appointed ambassadors of Nepal to various countries in accordance with Article 282 (1) of the Constitution of Nepal and on the recommendation Of the Council of Ministers. Click here to read…

Top American official arriving today amid row over US State Partnership Program- Kathmandu Post

Donald Lu, who played a crucial role in the passage of MCC compact, is visiting Kathmandu weeks after Nepal’s decision not to participate in the SPP. Click here to read…

Nepal’s import of agricultural products jumps more than double to around Rs 379 billion in the past seven years- Republica

Nepal imported agriculture products worth Rs 378.60 billion in 2021/22, which was Rs 55 billion more than the import expenses on the headings of the previous year. Click here to read…

Living with climate anxiety- Nepali Times

Coming to terms with climate inaction and hypocrisy, while working professionally to avert a global emergency. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan’s current account deficit swells to $17.4bn: Dawn

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Wednesday reported that the country recorded a CAD of $17.406bn in FY22 compared to a gap of just $2.82bn in FY21.
The massive CAD speaks a lot about the severe problem of the balance of payments. The PML-N-led coalition government posted a CAD of $4.323bn in the April-June period of 2021-22, which was the second highest quarterly deficit of the fiscal year that ended on June 30. Click here to read…

Petroleum levy set to rise on IMF demand: The Express Tribune

Pakistan was ready to meet the remaining one prior condition of a further increase in the levy on all petroleum products that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had set for calling the board meeting to revive the programme, said Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Pakistani clerics, Afghan PM discuss bilateral ties in Kabul: The Express Tribune

A delegation of Pakistani religious scholars, headed by Mufti Mohammad Taqi Usmani, on Wednesday met acting Afghan prime minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund at the Arg Palace. Mufti Usmani conveyed to the Afghan premier that “Afghanistan and Pakistan are two Islamic countries and called for solidarity and good relations between the two neighbours. Click here to read…

Can talk with TTP and Baloch, Sindhi nationalists but not with thieves: Imran Khan: The News

PTI Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan Thursday said he could talk to the banned terrorist outfit TTP and Baloch and Sindhi nationalists but the day “you strike a deal with thieves, the entire society comes crashing down.” He expressed these views while addressing the main thanksgiving function on a video link at the F-9 Park here. Click here to read…

PDM will deliberate on Nawaz proposal for quitting govt forthwith: The News

The Pakistan Democratic Alliance (PDA) in its summit meeting today (Thursday) will deliberate the suggestion put up by Quaid of the PML-N Nawaz Sharif for quitting the government at the earliest and make movement for holding fresh poll in the country. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Foreign financial assistance sought to electrify Kelani Valley railway line- The Daily Mirror

Amid the growing demand for public transport, Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Bandula Gunawardane is planning to seek foreign funds to electrify the Kelani Valley (KV) railway line. Click here to read…

Demanding to dissolve parliament- The Daily Mirror

The Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC) today staged a protest opposite the Fort Railway station under the theme “Allow new public opinion’ and demanded to dissolve the parliament. Click here to read…

Parliament approves emergency regulations- The Daily Mirror

The emergency regulations declared by the then Acting President Ranil Wickremesinghe were approved in Parliament today with 120 MPs voting for it and 63 against. Click here to read…

US Amb. meets President to discuss SL’s economic and political crisis- The Daily Mirror

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said that she met with President Ranil Wickremesinghe to discuss how Sri Lanka arrived to this point of economic and political crisis, and how they can work together to navigate towards a brighter future for all. Click here to read…

Dinouk Colombage appointed Director, Int’l Affairs at President’s Office- The Daily Mirror

Journalist Dinouk Colombage has been appointed as the Director, International Affairs at the President’s Office, the President’s Office said today. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

US Sanctions Hindering Govt Services: Muttaqi: Tolo News

The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amir Khan Muttaqi said that the US-imposed sanctions on Afghanistan have hindered the activity of the current Afghan government. Speaking at the Tashkent conference held on the Afghan situation, Muttaqi called the decades-long war and US sanctions as the main reasons for the poverty in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Islamic Emirate Leader Bans ‘Unproven Allegations’ Against Members: Tolo News

A statement of the Islamic Emirate leader, Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada, said allegations against officials of the Islamic Emirate that lack proof are forbidden. The statement, issued by Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid, said several Islamic Hadiths suggest that unproven allegations are considered lies and are worthy of punishment. Click here to read…

With ‘Third Generation of Afghan Children Born in Exile’; Afghanistan Becomes the Third-Largest Displaced Population: The Khaama Press

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) report, Afghanistan has the third-largest refugee population and the region’s largest displaced population after the Taliban took control, with 2.7 million refugees scattered across 98 countries. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

External debt servicing: Payment to peak at $5.15b in 2030- The Daily Star

Bangladesh’s foreign loan servicing burden will peak in fiscal 2029-30 with repayment of $5.15 billion, which experts deem to be very much within the safe territory — quelling fears that the country might become the next emerging economy after Sri Lanka and Pakistan to run into external debt distress. Click here to read…

No fertiliser crisis despite 2 plants’ closure- The Daily Star

Agriculture Minister Muhammad Abdur Razzaque yesterday said there would be no fertiliser crisis in the country before the next boro season despite the closure of two plants amid gas shortage. Click here to read…

Govt formally seeks $4.5b from IMF- The Daily Star

Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has sent in a formal request to the IMF for a $4.5 billion loan, putting to bed the speculations on whether the country would be seeking the support from the Washington-based multilateral lender at all. Click here to read…

Maldives

First Couple observes military parade held to commemorate Independence Day – Raajje

The First Couple of Maldives have observed the special parade and procession showcased by the Maldives National Defence Force to commemorate the Maldives’ 57th Anniversary of Independence. Click here to read…

RSF seeks revision of Maldives law forcing journalists to reveal sources – RSF

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has joined nine other human rights organisations in calling on the government of the Maldives to repeal or amend a provision forcing journalists to reveal their sources. Included in a reform of the Evidence Act, this measure was ratified by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on 18 July. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Ethnic Armed Organisations Condemn Myanmar junta executions – Mizzima

On Monday 25 July Ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) condemned the Myanmar junta’s execution of four men, including prominent democracy activists Phyo Zeya Thaw and Kyaw Min Yu (Ko Jimmy) over the weekend. Click here to read…

‘Deserved Many Death Sentences’: Myanmar’s Military on Execution of 4 Activists’ The Quint

A day after Myanmar’s military junta revealed that it had executed four pro-democracy activists accused of allegedly assisting in carrying out “terror acts,” a military spokesperson on Tuesday, 26 July, said that the four activists “deserved many death sentences,” AFP reported. Click here to read…

Myanmar Military’s Long History of Executing its Enemies – The Irrawaddy

The hangings of National League for Democracy (NLD) lawmaker Ko Phyo Zeya Thaw, pro-democracy veteran Kyaw Min Yu, widely known as ‘Ko Jimmy’, Ko Hla Myo Aung and Ko Aung Thura Zaw have caused outrage around the world, and clearly show that it is a folly to believe that any kind of dialogue with the thugs in power in Naypyitaw is possible or would be the way forward. Click here to read…

Nepal

Nepal-Bangladesh meeting on power cooperation likely next month- The Kathmandu Post

Two sides to discuss power trade and attracting Bangladeshi investment in energy sector. Click here to read…

International rights groups call for amendment to Nepal’s transitional justice bill- The Kathmandu Post

New draft falls short of promised reforms to protect victims’ rights, the rights organisations say. Click here to read…

Nepal Police submits report on Finance Ministry hard drive to probe panel- The Kathmandu Post

UML members in the panel want to study Janardan Sharma’s phone call details, but ruling party members say that would violate privacy rights. Click here to read…

Everything you need to know about new amendment to the Citizenship Act- The Kathmandu Post

Amendment opens the door for thousands of children of parents who got citizenship by birth to acquire citizenship by descent; non-resident Nepalis are also eligible for citizenship. Click here to read…

Editorial: An expected change in Punjab: Dawn

In its widely anticipated judgement on a petition filed by Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, the three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Umar Bandial ordered the immediate notification of the success of the petitioner in the election for chief minister, paving the way for a change in the country’s most populous province and political heartland. Click here to read…

Nawaz Sharif wants early elections: The News

Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif wants early general elections and has discussed with the senior party leadership the option of quitting the government in the Centre, credible sources have confirmed. Click here to read…

Flood alert issued for Punjab: The Express Tribune

As the spell of “abnormal” monsoon rains continues to lash the country, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Tuesday issued a low-medium flood alert for the Chenab river, asking all concerned districts to stay on high alert and take precautionary measures to protect the populations in the adjacent districts. Click here to read…

President Alvi swears in Pervaiz Elahi as new Punjab CM: The Express Tribune

Hours after the Supreme Court struck down Punjab Assembly deputy speaker’s ruling, President Dr Arif Alvi administered the oath of Punjab chief minister to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidate Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi at the President House in wee hours of Wednesday. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Susil Premajayantha appointed Leader of the House- The Daily Mirror

Education Minister Susil Premajayantha has been appointed as the Leader of the House in Parliament. Click here to read…

SriLankan says paid interest on US$ 175mn bond after sovereign debt default- The Daily Mirror

National carrier SriLankan Airlines yesterday said it paid the interest in full on its US$ 175 million bond due in 2024 using company funds. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka asks China for help with trade, investment and tourism- The Daily Mirror

Sri Lanka has asked China to help with trade, investment and tourism to help it grow sustainably, Colombo’s envoy to Beijing said on Monday as it negotiates for an emergency US$ 4 billion package to help it emerge from an economic meltdown. Click here to read…

Gotabaya Rajapaksa to return- The Daily Mirror

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will return to the country from Singapore, Cabinet spokesman Bandula Gunewardena said today. Click here to read…