Afghanistan

Female Students in Grade 12 Take Final Exam to Graduate: Tolo News

On Wednesday, female students in the 12th grade took a final exam in Kabul, as well as in other provinces. Some of them were positive about the test, but they voiced concerns over the fate of younger female students above sixth grade in the country. “We learned at the start of this week that they would give an exam on Wednesday, and we are not as prepared compared to previous years,” said Rukhsar, another studentClick here to read…

Restoration of Great Mosque of Herat Begins: Tolo News

After seven decades, Herat’s information and culture department said that it has begun the restoration of the province’s Great Mosque, also known as the “Jami Masjid of Herat.”The restoration of all of the mosque’s ancient tiles is expected.Reportedly, natural disasters in recent years have damaged the majority of the tiles of Herat’s Great Mosque.”Seventy years ago, it wasn’t really that everything was repaired, only the places that collapsed were restored, but right now, all of them are under the restoration process,” said Zalmai Safa, the head of Herat’s department of information and culture’s historical monument preservation group. Click here to read…

First Public Execution Conducted in Western Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

The de facto government of Afghanistan publicly executed a man named Tajmir convicted of a murder at a crowded football stadium in South-Western Farah province earlier today, where a number of the group’s top ministers and leaders attended the execution. Enforcing the Sharia law has been the foremost priority of the rolling government, as the verdict was issued by the Taliban’s supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada last month. The punishment includes public executions, public amputations, and stoning. Click here to read…

Afghan Traders Face Critical Challenges in Exporting Pine Nuts: The Khaama Press

Afghan Traders in Khost Province are wrestling with critical challenges in exporting pine nuts abroad. Hundreds of tons of pine nuts are harvested annually, however, a lack of export and a proper marketing system to transfer products to the regional markets causes massive losses to Afghan traders. The traders called on the Afghan administration to enhance trade agreements with the neighboring counties, Pakistan in particular, to facilitate the movement of commercial goods and other necessary items in a timely manner. Otherwise, the products will get rotten before reaching any commercial markets. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

PM Hasina: BNP, Jamaat cause misery for the people – Dhaka Tribune

Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday slammed the BNP and Jamaat for causing misery for the people, stressing that her government has been squarely focused on mitigating the woes of the public…She urged the people to vote for the boat symbol for the trend of development and democracy to continue in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Next general election in first week of Jan 2024: PM – New Age

‘After 2023, in the first week of January 2024, the next national election would be held. In this election, I seek your (countrymen) vote for our electoral symbol boat,’ the prime minister said while addressing a grand public rally at the Sheikh Kamal International Cricket Stadium in Cox’s Bazar, organised by the Cox’s Bazar district Awami League. Click here to read…

Bhutan

South Asian Foundation Bhutan to assist more youth in Bhutan – Kuensel Online

The 19th Governing Council Meeting of the South Asian Foundation (SAF) decided in Thimphu yesterday to make programmes vibrant in the region for youth. Dignitaries from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal attended the in-person meeting. Click here to read…

Smilegate supports literacy education in Bhutan – The Korea Herald

Smilegate Foundation, the charity arm of South Korean gaming giant Smilegate, said Wednesday it has opened two new community learning centers on Nov. 28, to support literacy education for women and children in Bhutan. According to the foundation, the centers, which were built together with UNESCO and Bhutan’s Education Ministry, seek to provide women and children in remote areas with access to education, with the hopes of increasing their overall quality of life. Click here to read…

Maldives

50 years of tourism in the Maldives and, remarkably, it’s still the ‘ultimate island paradise’ early visitors found – SCMP

“Does it really exist?” asked Dirk Brink – a “well-known local money trader and inveterate traveller” – in the pages of the South China Morning Post in March 1976. “Is there really a country which belongs to the ‘Brotherhood of enemies’ (United Nations) which has all the qualifications of paradise?” Brink had, a headline teased, “finally found the ultimate island paradise for the jaded jet-setter looking for a place to lie down”. And he was going to tell readers all about it. Click here to read…

Maldives gov’t requests to waive Schengen Visa requirement – Avas

The Maldives has asked for ease in obtaining a visa for travel to all European Union (EU) countries — the Schengen Visa. Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid made the request to the Head of Taskforce for Electoral Campaign Bid Committee Expo 2030 Rome, Dr. Gaetano Castellini Curiel, at a meeting at the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday. The meeting was held as part of the ongoing high-level engagements of Representative Curiel, who is currently undertaking a visit to the Maldives from 5 to December 7, 2022.
Click here to read…

Myanmar

WFP Says It Received $7Mln From EU To Tackle Food Insecurity In Myanmar – UrduPoint

The European Union has allocated around 6.5 million Euros ($6.8 million) for the support of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in its efforts to tackle the humanitarian food crisis in Myanmar, the WFP said on Wedesday. “More than 800,000 people in the southeast, northwest and border areas, as well as impoverished peri-urban Yangon, will be reached thanks to the continued EU humanitarian support. The funding was made through the EU’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations,” the statement read. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Praises Young Anti-Junta Resistance Fighters – The Irrawaddy

In her first public comments about Myanmar’s ongoing ant-regime resistance movement since last year, the country’s ousted leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said she was proud of young Burmese people and all those struggling to defend and fight for democracy. She shared the message via her Australian former economic adviser, Sean Turnell, who was released by the regime three weeks ago after spending 650 days in prison.Click here to read…

How long will the world drag its feet on Myanmar – UCA News

An internationally-respected Baptist leader is arrested and detained, a Cardinal’s home village is bombed and seven students are sentenced to death — yet still the corridors of power around the world echo with silence and inaction over the tragedy in Myanmar. On Monday, Reverend Dr. Hkalam Samson, the former president of the Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC), was stopped at Mandalay International Airport, on his way to Bangkok. Click here to read…

Nepal

Investing in hydro-power projects – The Kathmandu Post

Nepal has started issuing hydro-power developers licences to mobilise domestic and foreign capital. In this line of thought, licences to so-called developers are being overwhelmingly issued. Politicians, bureaucrats to technocrats have bagged such licences to generate electricity from the ever-flowing rivers. But neither has it worked in the past, nor is there a hope to realise the anticipated output in the futureClick here to read…

Repercussions of remittance economy – The Kathmandu Post

Remittance has remained one of the largest contributors to the national economy for years, and will probably remain so for quite a while. The World Bank estimates that remittances accounted for 22 percent of the GDP this year. Informal inflows are considered to be at least 50 percent higher than official figures. The economic size of remittances is too high not to have a significant impact on the political economy of the country. Click here to read…

Officials from Nepal and India agree to course Mahakali to its original state – Khabarhub

The Nepal-India Border Coordination Meeting held at the NHPC in Dharchula on Wednesday agreed to let the Mahakali river flow in its original course. Earlier, there had been tension in the border area after India built a temporary dam to divert the flow of the Mahakali river towards Nepal. Wednesday’s meeting agreed to remove the temporary dam with wire mesh and let the river follow the natural courseClick here to read…

Nepal Elections: How Machiavellian Moves By Beijing’s Proxy In Nepal Backfired And Prompted Its Rivals To Close Ranks – Swarajya

Oli, reportedly egged on by Beijing which is desperate to install its proxy in power in Kathmandu, called up his bete noire Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the chairperson of the CPN(MC) on 24 November. Oli invited Dahal to join his alliance and form the government. The CPN(MC) then tried to leverage Oli’s offer and use it to extract more than its due from the NC. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Delay in finalising ‘dissolution’ plans bad for PTI’s cause: Dawn

As Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan reiterated his threat to dissolve the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies, the delay in securing support for and implementing his plan seems to be working against him, as the situation on the ground is changing with each passing day. Click here to read…

Pakistan seeks emergency $3b Saudi cash injection: The Express Tribune

Pakistan on Wednesday requested Saudi Arabia to urgently provide $3 billion in cash after its foreign exchange reserves fell to a critically low level, as the new army chief was also expected to play a role in bagging the bailout during his upcoming maiden visit to the Kingdom. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar made the request during a meeting with Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, the Saudi ambassador, according to his ministry’s officials. Click here to read…

Pakistan sends oil import deal draft to UAE: The News

Pakistan has sent the draft of Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) to the UAE for an official nod from authorities concerned in Abu Dhabi. Once it is approved, negotiation for a commercial agreement for the import of Mogas under GtG mode will start between officials of Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). One of the top officials at the Energy Ministry confirmed the development to The News. “We have sent the IGA draft to the UAE for approval. Once it is signed, commercial talks would begin between the state entities of both the countries.”Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Country receives entire stock of MOP fertilizer required for paddy cultivation – Daily News

Sri Lanka has received the entire amount of Muriate of Potash (MOP) fertilizer required for paddy cultivation for Maha season. This stock of fertilizer has been imported from Canada at a cost of USD 40 million. The total stock of fertilizer consisting of 41,876 metric tons was officially handed over to Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera by the Secretary of the Ministry of Irrigation and Mahaweli Development. D. C. Jayalal. The Ministry had taken steps to buy MOP fertilizer by spending the money provided to the Mahaweli Water Security Investment Programme, which is funded by the Asian Development Bank. MOP fertilizer is given to the farmers for paddy cultivation in our country after two seasons as it was not imported after chemical fertilizers were banned in 2021.

Sri Lanka’s children go hungry as food prices soar – BBC

The three-year-old is losing weight and complains of leg pains and weakness. The doctor’s diagnosis is clear – Nitisha is underfed and malnourished. But the treatment suggested is difficult to come by for her family – wholesome meals. Like many people in Sri Lanka, this family from a tea estate village in Hanthana, in the centre of the country, have seen their finances collapse. “We manage two meals a day and it’s the same thing – rice with potatoes or lentils. We can’t afford anything else,” says Harshini, Nitisha’s mother. For weeks, the family has not had milk or eggs, she added. Click here to read…

Annual Sri Pada Pilgrimage Season begins – Daily News

The annual Sri Pada Pilgrimage season 2022/23 began on Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day yesterday. It will end on Vesak Full Moon Poya Day in May. The processions, carrying the Sacred Casket Relics of the Buddha, sacred objects, and the statue of God Saman from the the Sri Pada Raja Maha Viharaya temple in Galpoththaawala, Ratnapura reached the Sri Pada Maluwa yesterday morning. Large crowds came to pay homage to Sri Pada on the first day of the pilgrimage season yesterday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Uzbekistan NSA: It is Important Afghanistan Not Be Isolated: Tolo News

Uzbekistan National Security Advisor Victor Mohammadov said that it is “important” to not allow Afghanistan to be Isolated or to leave it on its own. He made the remarks at the first India-Central Asia Meeting of the National Security Advisers/Secretaries of Security Councils. “Afghanistan is one of the important factors of security and steady development of Central Asia and South Asia,” he said. “It is important that we do not allow Afghanistan to be isolated and leave it on its own to deal with the social, economic, and humanitarian crisis. It is important… because this will lead to increasing poverty in the region which we are already feeling ourselves. Click here to read…

Amiri Visits Indonesia for Intl Conference on Afghan Women’s Education: Tolo News

The US special envoy for Afghanistan women and human rights has begun a trip to Indonesia, Switzerland and Turkey from December 5-12, the US Department of State said in a statement. “Special Envoy Amiri will participate in the International Conference for Afghan Women’s Education co-hosted by the Governments of Indonesia and Qatar to support Afghan women and girls’ access to education,” the statement reads. This comes as students called on the caretaker government to provide educational opportunities for them. Click here to read…

Kazakhstan Inks Agreement to Manage Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif Railway: The Khaama Press

The Afghan officials signed management of the Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif railway with a Kazakhstani company named Mansour Fatih, after months of discussion on the topic. The company will manage technical issues for the railway, getting paid over $4.1 million annually, according to sources. According to Bakht Rahman Sharafat, the acting head of Afghanistan Railway Authority, the current leadership will pay only about 25% of what the previous Uzbekistan company would receive for the service. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Dhaka, Delhi agree on security, border management to strengthen cooperation – Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh and India on Tuesday reiterated their commitment to further deepen and strengthen mutual cooperation in the security and border-related issues. The outcome came as the 18th meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on security and border management between Bangladesh and India was held on December 5-6, according to a media statement issued by the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs. The Indian delegation was led by Piyush Goyal, additional secretary, Indian Ministry of Home Affairs while Bangladesh delegation was led by AK Mukhlesur Rahman, additional secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs. Click here to read…

Awami League, BNP at odds over Dec 10 rally – Dhaka Tribune

Tension over the BNP’s December 10 rally in Dhaka mounted high on Tuesday as the opposition party once again failed to reach an agreement with the government and law enforcement agencies on the venue of its rally. Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) sources said the BNP must hold the rally at Suhrawardy Udyan, as it has been given permission to use the venue. However, the BNP leaders are adamant that they will not hold the rally there, although mentioning that they are open to other options. Click here to read…

What Bangladesh must do now as a global climate leader? – Daily Star

In Bangladesh, we have an opportunity to lead the other LDCs by taking forward the proposal to set up a National Mechanism for Loss and Damage (NMLD) as a public-private partnership under the leadership of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as well as the ministries of disaster management, finance, and planning. Together with private sector actors such as insurance companies, civil society and researchers, Bangladesh is in a position to become a pioneer in developing a national-level mechanism to deal with the inevitable losses and damages caused by climate change. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Not a good season for orange exporters – Kuensel Online

Mandarin orange farmers and exporters in the country could likely face a difficult season this year if Bangladesh decides not to import. As a measure to save its dwindling foreign currency exchange reserves, Bangladesh has restricted many import categories. In the case of mandarin oranges, one of the most exported cash crops from Bhutan, Bangladesh importers have not yet been able to provide Letter of Credits (LC) without which exporters in Phuentsholing have not been able to export. Click here to read…

Ramifications of the Tax Bill of Bhutan 2022 – Friedrich Naumann Foundation

The current parliament of Bhutan, the third in line, has in its eighth session introduced and endorsed the Tax Bill of Bhutan 2022 in a bid to address the shortage of foreign currency reserves, prioritize the local sector (whilst substituting potential imports with local products) and encompass amendments to laws pertaining to Custom Duty (CD), Sales Tax (ST) and Green Tax (GT). The proposal from the Finance Ministry is to increase taxes on goods that are harmful to health and the environment while reducing taxes on essential commodities. Click here to read…

Assam: Task force to deal with man-elephant conflict at Indo-Bhutan border formed – Northeast Now

The Dhansiri Forest Division Udalguri have taken up several measures to combat the acute man-elephant conflicts in the Indo-Bhutan border areas in the Udalguri district. According to reports, the department has formed special task forces to deal with the menace and drive away the herd of elephants descending into human habitation areas and paddy fields from the hills. Click here to read…

Maldives

Cabinet approves MoU with Maldives on immigration – Colombo Gazette

In the course of bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the Maldives it has been proposed to establish a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in immigration matters between the two countries. Accordingly the Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles to enter in to a Memorandum of Understanding to improve and strengthen cooperation in immigration matters between the two countries. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka plans deal with Maldives to tighten border controls – EconomyNext

Sri Lanka’s cabinet of ministers had cleared a plan to enter into a deal with Maldives to counter illegal migration and tighten border controls. The Minister of Public Security had proposed to enter into memorandum of understanding agreement with Maldives immigration authorities to prevent “informal migration, human trafficking” and also tackle “blacklisted travelers”, a government statement said. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Online passport applications temporarily suspended – Mizzima

The Myanmar Passport Issuance Board announced on 4 December that the Online Booking System for obtaining a QR Code to apply for a passport will be temporarily suspended beginning 5 December. It said that the current system is being suspended so that it can be improved with the introduction of new technology that will allow people to make appointments easily and quickly 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta and Pakistan Boost Military Ties – The Irrawaddy

Senior Pakistan defense official Colonel Imran Khan visited the Myanmar capital Naypyitaw last week to discuss military cooperation with the junta, according to sources familiar with his visit. Colonel Khan’s two-day visit from November 29 to December 1 is the latest sign of the growing defense ties between Islamabad and Naypyitaw. The military regime did not comment on the attaché’s visit and no details of what was discussed have emerged. Click here to read…

New narrative: NUG claims it controls 60% of Myanmar – Khmertimeskh

He condemned the Junta Government for its unwillingness to end the violence and rocking the country. Duwa Lashi La also called for Asean and other international communities to give them the same support they have been providing to Ukraine. The military, led by Senior General Min Aung Hlain, on February 1, last year launched a coup against the civilian government led by State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, bringing the country into unrest and turmoil. Click here to read…

Russian Trade Delegation Signs Seven Agreements With Myanmar Junta – The Irrawaddy

A second Russian trade delegation in a month is visiting Naypyitaw to boost bilateral economic ties. After talks with Myanmar junta boss Min Aung Hlaing and his ministers, Russian economic development minister Maxim Reshetnikov met business owners and signed seven agreements. No details were provided by the junta but Russian state news agency Tass reported that a joint protocol on trade, disease control, education and science was signed. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Nawaz greenlights poll prep as ‘N’ pushes back plans to ‘save assembly’: Dawn

In an apparent effort to dispel the impression that the PML-N is ‘running away’ from elections in Punjab, and seemingly out of legal options to forestall a possible dissolution of the provincial assembly, the party’s supreme leader, Nawaz Sharif, has directed the PML-N’s provincial chief to begin homework for shortlisting suitable candidates for polls. However, party leaders insist they’re only preparing for the eventuality where the province goes to polls; they believe the ruling coalition in Punjab would not dissolve the legislature. Click here to read…

Editorial: Disquiet on the western front: Dawn

It is very difficult for Pakistan to be delinked from Afghanistan, because of reasons of geography and history. Yet a strategically mature and realistic policy is needed to manage relations cordially with Pakistan’s western neighbour. At a recent consultative dialogue in Islamabad, former generals, diplomats and other experts put their heads together to discuss the situation, made all the more critical following the banned TTP’s rescinding of the ceasefire with the state. There was wide consensus that a reorientation or reformulation of Pakistan’s Afghan policy was required. But the million-dollar question remains: how? Click here to read…

Govt snubs talk of economic emergency: The Express Tribune

The government ruled out on Tuesday the possibility of imposing an economic emergency in the country to deal with one of the worst crises in its history but said it was contemplating energy conservation measures to reduce the import bill. In a statement, the finance ministry said that the government remained committed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme and the talks for starting the review under the programme are at an advanced stage.
Click here to read…

Environmental emergency imposed in Punjab: The News

Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi on Tuesday imposed an environmental emergency in Lahore and other cities to reduce the smog, which has been declared a calamity. “There is a ban on burning crop residues across Punjab,” the CM said and ordered implementation of a plan designed to reduce smog. He said action should be taken to control the factors causing smog. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

President meets donor agencies for lengthy round table discussion – Daily News

The World Bank (WB), Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) representatives decided that a coordinated assistance programme supported by the multilateral financial institutions is required for Sri Lanka to recover from the economic crisis the country is currently facing. Click here to read…

Bilateral discussions – Daily News

President Ranil Wickremesinghe met with the British High Commissioner, Japanese Ambassador, US Ambassador, Indian High Commissioner and Australian High Commissioner in Colombo and exchanged views on bilateral development cooperation. Click here to read…

Sri Lankan HC in Pakistan visits Karachi to further business ties – Daily News

Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner in Pakistan Vice Admiral Mohan Wijewickrama who visited Karachi to engage with the business communities and in promotional activities formally handed over the Commission of Appointment to Barrister-at-Law and Senior Partner Mandviwalla and Zafar Mehmood Mandviwalla appointing him as Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka for Hyderabad in Sindh Province. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Zardari Expects to Talk With Kabul Over Threats Facing Pakistan: Tolo News

Pakistan’s foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said they are expecting to work with an “interim authority” in Afghanistan to “address the challenges posed by the terrorist organizations.” He made the remarks in an interview with Al-Jazeera in response to a question asked about Tahrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Click here to read…

Mawlawi Yaqoob Meets with UAE President: Tolo News

Acting Defense Minister Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob, leading a delegation of the Islamic Emirate to the UAE, met with the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, local news agencies reported.

Click here to read…

Iranian Envoy: US Seeks to Show Afghanistan in Shambles without Its Presence: The Khaama Press

Hassan Kazemi Qomi, the Iranian Special Envoy for Afghanistan, on Monday, December 5, said that the US has muddied the situation in Afghanistan by inflaming ethnic and religious conflict during the past year.
He further stated that the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is still operational in Afghanistan, despite the military pullout, and that the US still has control over Afghanistan’s airspace.

Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Signs of the economy turning around in November –Dhaka Tribune

Latest data from Bangladesh Bank, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) and Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) shows that export earnings turned out to be a record $5.092 billion in November. The previous record was $4.9 billion in December last year.
Click here to read…

Dec 10 rally venue not fixed yet – The Daily Star

With only four days left for BNP’s December 10 rally in the capital, the complications over the venue are yet to be resolved. The party has sought the National Eidgah field for the rally after police denied the permission to hold it in the Arambagh intersection as an alternative to Nayapaltan and Suhrawardy Udyan. Police said they will not allow rallies or public gatherings on the streets of the capitals and such events can only be held on open grounds.
Click here to read…

Bad debts going worse – The Daily Star

Misgovernance, corruption, nepotism and subsequent bad debts keep plaguing the banking landscape of Bangladesh. Central bank data reveals that non-performing loans (NPL) have swelled to a whopping Tk 134,396 crore as of September this year, accounting for 9.36 percent of the total loans disbursed. Nearly 29 percent of the loans disbursed by the six state-owned banks have been defaulted on as of September. This is despite the relaxed loan classification rules to allow banks to window-dress their accounts and make their financial health look sound.
Click here to read…

Bhutan

Fighting corruption – Kuensel Online

A small country like Bhutan is finding it difficult to address corruption. For international visitors, this is something that they cannot comprehend. Why, they ask. We do not have adequate answers. In Bhutan, corruption cases are on the rise and are difficult to treat. This is from Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) annual report 2021-2022.
Click here to read…

Maldives

BML celebrates International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Raajje

The country’s national bank revealed via a press release on Sunday, that they kicked off celebrations to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, in partnership with the Maldives Deaf Association (MDA). As such, a children’s evening was held in Guraidhoo island of Kaafu atoll to celebrate the day. More than 200 individuals from the Home for People with Special Needs, joined the event to participate in the activities.
Click here to read…

MNDF seize 3 Sri Lankan vessels fishing sharks in Maldivian territory – Edition

The Maldives authorities apprehended three Sri Lankan vessels that were illegally fishing sharks within Maldivian territory. Maldives National Defence Force’s (MNDF) Coast Guard discovered the vessels while patrolling the country’s borders. The boats were inside Maldives territory and a large quantity of sharks and other varieties of fish were found onboard the vessels, MNDF reported. MNDF is currently attempting to bring the vessels to Malé; the authority stated they will be able to dock them near Kaafu atoll Dhoonidhoo sometime around 01:00 am on Tuesday. The Coast Guard confirmed that two of the three vessels were taken into custody earlier on 30 November. The vessels, “Banuzan” and “Rathu 01” had six Sri Lankans crew members.
Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Resistance Inflicts More Casualties on Junta Forces – The Irrawaddy

The Myanmar junta’s military suffered casualties as People’s Defense Force groups (PDFs) and an ethnic armed organization (EAO) attacked regime targets across the country. Incidents were reported in Kachin and Mon states and Sagaing, Magwe and Mandalay regions. The Irrawaddy has collected the following reports of significant attacks from PDFs and the EAO. Some military casualties could not be independently verified.
Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Takes Delivery of FTC-2000G Fighter Jets from China – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military regime has taken delivery of six FTC-2000G fighter jets purchased from China, according to Myanmar-based observers monitoring the regime’s air force. The six fighter jets arrived in November and are currently being checked over at Meiktila airbase in Mandalay Region before their deployment to Namhsan airbase in southern Shan State, according to regime air force sources. The jets are likely to be used in the regime’s ongoing airstrikes against civilians and resistance forces fighting alongside ethnic armed groups across the country.
Click here to read…

Myanmar remains on US religious freedom blacklist – UCA news

Military-ruled Myanmar has been named among 12 countries by the United States that are of “particular concern” for religious freedom violations. Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, joined China, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Nicaragua and North Korea on Washington’s blacklist for having engaged in or tolerated particularly severe violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act 1998, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on Dec. 2.
Click here to read…

India and Myanmar Junta Using Rakhine Truce to Finalize Trade Corridor – The Irrawaddy

New Delhi is using the informal truce between Myanmar’s military regime and the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine State to finalize its mega transport project linking the two countries. Indian Consul Jay Krishna met junta-appointed Rakhine State chief minister Dr. Aung Kyaw Min for talks on the India-backed Kaladan Multi Modal Transit Transport Project on Friday, just days after the ceasefire began. The transport project, which is considered crucial for New Delhi’s ambitious Act East Policy, has been delayed partly by the fighting between junta forces and the AA, an ethnic armed organization that operates in Rakhine and parts of Chin State along the border with India and Bangladesh.
Click here to read…

Nepal

Four ruling parties agree to continue partnership – The Kathmandu Post
With the count of first-past-the-post votes completed and that of the Proportional Representation ballots nearing end, the ruling coalition partners held their first meeting at Baluwatar and decided to continue with the existing five-party alliance led by the Nepali Congress.
Click here to read…

Embankment row highlights urgency of settling border issues with India – The Kathmandu Post

Earlier in the day, Nepalis and those on the Indian side had chanted slogans against each other and pelted stones. At the root of the dispute is the ongoing construction of the embankment. Earlier, there had been an agreement between Nepali and Indian officials whereby both sides would refrain from constructing embankments along the disputed parts of the river.
Click here to read…

NC stands first in PA seat tally, clinches 110 out of 330 seats – Khabarhub

Out of 330 PA members elected from seven provinces, and the major ruling NC has won 111 seats. The party has emerged the largest party in three provinces: Bagmati, Gandaki and Sudurpaschim while the main opposition CPN-UML is the largest party in the Province 1, Madhes province and Lumbini province. UML has won a total 91 seats.
Click here to read…

Nepal opens nighttime business to boost its ailing economy, tourism income – The Kathmandu Post

After almost a decade and a half, the Nepali authorities have adopted a “liberal policy” to allow nighttime businesses across the country to flourish, thereby giving a boost to economic activities. Economists say it’s a landmark decision because the local economy benefits a great deal from a vibrant nightlife. But the policy is still restrictive.
Click here to read…

Pakistan

PDM amenable to ‘unconditional’ talks with Imran: Dawn

The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) on Monday expressed its willingness to engage former prime minister Imran Khan in a dialogue to break the prevailing political impasse, but said it wanted the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to let go of its conditions.

Click here to read…

Pakistan concedes to China’s demand: The Express Tribune

Pakistan on Monday caved in to China’s demand for opening a revolving bank account that would partially save Chinese power plants from circular debt but it may cause concern among officials of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Click here to read…

President’s caution to Imran Khan about ‘red barrier’: The News

PTI chairman Imran Khan was reportedly cautioned after the change of command in the army by President Arif Alvi to strictly direct his leaders and social media team not to attack the new army chief and the military. PTI chairman Imran Khan was reportedly cautioned after the change of command in the army by President Arif Alvi to strictly direct his leaders and social media team not to attack the new army chief and the military. A PTI source while sharing a screenshot of the Whatsapp message conveyed to the party leadership and the social media team, claimed that President Alvi conveyed to Khan that the new military establishment respect of the institution is like a ‘red-barrier,’ which should not be crossed.

Click here to read…

Stalemate on 9th review: IMF to stay engaged with govt on targets: The News

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will continue its dialogue and engagement with Pakistan on policies and reforms needed to keep bailout programme’s targets on track and to complete the pending ninth review, a Fund official said on Monday. An IMF review for the release of the next tranche under bailout funding has been pending since September, though Finance Minister Ishaq Dar’s last week said that Pakistan met all targets for the 9th review.

Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan leaders’ commitment to economic revival through reforms highly appreciable, ADB Vice President – Daily News

Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice President Shixen Chen said international monetary agencies are highly impressed with the strength of the Sri Lankan leadership and its commitment to achieve speedy economic revival through reforms in monetary sectors. He stated this when he called on Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena yesterday (5) at the Prime Minister’s Office in Colombo. He said the current visit is aimed at finalizing proposed ADB projects for next year and assured ADB’s support for the country’s development and its efforts to overcome economic and fiscal challenges.
Click here to read…

President says no plans for reforms; stresses need for new economic model – Daily Mirror

“What is the plan for reform? Frankly, I have no plan for it. What reforms when we don’t have an economy,” Wickremesinghe told the inaugural session of Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2022, themed ‘Resetting from turmoil to opportunity’. The annual event, which was kicked off yesterday, is organise by the country’s premier business chamber, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. “The government will not have plans for reform. What we want to do is to build a new economy. But is the private sector ready for it? Can you handle the pain,” Wickremesinghe asked the business leaders present in the audience, who appeared shocked for a moment.
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Australian High Commissioner visits Hambantota Int’l Port – Daily News

As part of their visit to the Hambantota International Port (HIP) last week Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens and his entourage learned about the activities and operations of the port. The High Commissioner who was visiting the South of Sri Lanka for the first time, showed special interest in the port’s ongoing business and the value addition HIP brings to the table, which would be a winning factor for possible collaboration in future. The entourage toured the port following the discussion.
Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Ministry Reviewing Proposals for Mine Extraction: Tolo News

The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum is considering the proposals submitted by companies for the extraction of eight major mines in the western provinces of Ghor and Herat. Speaking to the owners of the companies, the acting Minister of Mines and Petroleum, Shuhabuddin Delawar, said that the proposals will be determined within 15 days. Click here to read…

Hunger, Privation in Afghanistan for Second Winter in a Row: USIP: Tolo News

The US Institute for Peace (USIP) issued a report underscoring the difficulty of the Afghan situation, saying that the country faces hunger and privation for a second winter in a row. The report said that the Afghans appear to be adapting as best they can to the “dire” situation, but this will not mitigate pervasive poverty, hunger and deprivation. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

PM Hasina: BNP does not believe in democracy – Dhaka Tribune

Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday said the BNP does not believe in the democratic system and does not want to participate in elections as the party intends to grab state power through murder and conspiracyClick here to read…

Opposition parties vow not to join polls under partisan government – New Age

Leaders of some opposition political parties on Sunday at a discussion meeting expressed their views that they would in no way take part in the next general election under the partisan government. They said that they would begin simultaneous programmes to compel the Awami League government to resign and hand over power to an interim government to conduct the next general election in a free and fair mannerClick here to read…

Divisive lines in Assam – Dhaka Tribune

There are concerns that the BJP may revitalize the NRC process as part of its political strategy for the 2024 general election in India. Bangladesh is scheduled to hold its general election a few months before the Indian election in either December 2023 or January 2024. If the NRC resulted in an exodus from Assam, it would jeopardize the bonhomie between Dhaka and New Delhi. Click here to read…

Chinese ships to recruit 20 marine cadets – New Age

A visiting delegation of ship owners were given guard of honour at Bangladesh Marine Academy at Rangpur on Saturday…Bangladesh Marine Academy commandant Captain Shafiqul Islam Sarkar sat for a bilateral discussion with the visiting delegation regarding short and long term placement of the cadets of the academy at Seacon Ships Management CompanyClick here to read…

Bhutan

Curbing corruption still a daunting task: ACC report– Kuensel Online

Curbing corruption still remains a daunting task despite building an informed and awakened citizenry by engaging citizens and raising anti-corruption consciousness of public officials. This is one of the key issues highlighted in the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) annual report 2021-2022. Click here to read…

Maldives

Election date expected to be announced this month: EC – Avas

The date of the upcoming presidential election is expected to be announced within this month, the Election Commission has said. According to the law, candidacy for the presidential election must be opened 120 days before the date of the swearing-in. In an interview with AVAS, Election Commission’s President Fuwad Taufeek said that preparing a schedule for the presidential election has already startedClick here to read…

Nasheed: Projects in Thinadhoo left unfinished – Sun

President of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and Speaker of Parliament, Mohamed Nasheed, has stated that there are a lot of unfinished projects in GDh. Thoddoo and that this will negatively affect many. Nasheed visited Gdh. Thinadhoo last Friday, and announced that he will be running for the presidential candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections in 2023. Click here to read…

Myanmar

‘The worry is Russia’: UN delays Myanmar representation decision – Aljazeera

The United Nations has delayed a decision on who should represent Myanmar amid concern that Russia, which has become increasingly close to Myanmar’s coup leaders, could sabotage efforts to reach an international consensus on the crisis-torn country. Click here to read…

Why And How Myanmar, Bangladesh Benefitting From Growing Economic Ties? – Eurasia Review

According to reports of pro-government media outlet of Myanmar, Global New light of Myanmar, Myanmar’s export has been surpassing imports in the cross-border trade with Bangladesh and 8,620.7 tonnes of exports to Bangladesh was estimated at US$10.733 million between April and October in the 2022-2023 financial year. Click here to read…

Military launches major assault on Kokang base on China-Myanmar border – Myanmar now

Junta forces carried out a three-day attack this week on a base of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) located in Laukkai Township on northern Shan State’s border with China, the ethnic Kokang armed organisation said in a Thursday statement. Click here to read…

Myanmar, China hold economic forum to further enhance cooperation – XinhuaNet

A forum on China-Myanmar economic cooperation was held here on Friday to further enhance economic and investment cooperation between the two countries. The forum, with the theme of “China’s New Development and China-Myanmar Cooperation,” was organized by the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI). Click here to read…

Nepal

Ruling coalition to hold election review meeting on Monday – Khabarhub

The leaders of the Nepali Congress (NC)-led ruling coalition have decided to call the meeting of the ruling coalition on Monday. Speaking to the press after CPN-Maoist Center’s office bearers’ meeting, Maoist Center General Secretary Dev Gurung informed that the ruling coalition would meet tomorrow to review the election. The meeting has been called for 3 pm. Click here to read…

Nepal may never use four million COVID vaccine doses donated by China – The Print

our million doses of Chinese-based Sinovac company’s Sinovac-CoronaVac Covid-19 vaccine may not be rolled out ever. Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population officials said that they have proposed to roll out the vaccine at a meeting of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee, four times but no decision was taken in this regard, The Kathmandu Post reported. Click here to read…

‘We are looking to expand our EVs market to Nepal’ – The Kathmandu Post

Omega Seiki Mobility, an Indian electric vehicles (EVs) manufacturer, has launched its battery-operated commercial goods vehicles in Nepal. Morang Auto Works is the dealer of the company’s vehicles. The company plans to set up charging stations in different locations and provide training to technicians with regard to the repair and maintenance of their vehicles in Nepal. Click here to read…

Joining government is not our priority: RPP Chair Lingden – Khabarhub

While parties like Maoist Center and Janata Samajbadi Party have kept all options open to join the government, RPP said it was yet to decide on the issue formally. It should be noted that RPP can play a crucial role in government formation and in the parliament because of the number of seats (both under the first-past-the-post and proportional representation) it has won. Click here to read…

Pakistan

PTI chairman’s politics weakens Pakistan: PM Shehbaz: Dawn

Reacting to Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s remarks about former army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday lashed out at ex-premier for “undermining” the foundation of Pakistan just for his own rule. Click here to read…

FM rules out early polls on PTI chief’s demand: The Express Tribune

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said on Sunday that he did not see the need for holding early elections in the country on the demand of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan, as the government looked for solutions to internal problems. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka in progressive talks with China on debt restructuring, submits all details: Minister – Daily Mirror

The Central Bank has submitted all relevant information to the Chinese banks as part of talks on debt restructuring, State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe said yesterday. The Minister told Daily Mirror yesterday that progressive dialogue is in place with China on the matter despite some individual MPs making ad hoc remarks otherwise. Click here to read…

‘There will be China Go Home campaign soon, and I will lead it,’ warns Lanka MP – Hindustan Times

Rasamanickam accused the Chinese government of lending money to Sri Lanka despite being aware of the economic situation of the island nation. He claimed that China knew that Sri Lanka’s economy was collapsing ‘as a guise’ to include the island nation in China’s debt trap. Click here to read…

Time to rid the country of Dependent Mentality – Daily News

It is high time to eradicate the ‘dependent mentality’ and ‘social welfare culture’. As Sri Lankans we have to look at the bitter truth we were hiding from up to now. It hurts a lot of people but we have to tell the truth. Otherwise, ‘politics based on promises’ will continue. We have to stop this now or it will never end. Sri Lanka will remain as a developing country forever. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Dysfunctional Banking System Contributed to Crisis: Alakbarov: Tolo News

The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ramiz Alakbarov, said that there are several factors that have contributed to the nation’s economic decline– “one of that is dysfunctionality of the banking system.” Alakbarov said that there has been a 20 percent reduction in income in Afghanistan since August 2021. “Since last August, we have seen a 20 percent reduction in income and output; 65 percent reduction in public spending and 50 percent decline in households,” he said. Click here to read…

US Representative to Undertake Regional Visit to Consult on Situation of Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

According to a press release from the US Department of State, and the US official’s Twitter handle, West will visit the regional countries from December 1- December 8 to consult with interlocutors. The US special representative for Afghanistan stated that during his visit, he will engage with US and Afghan partners to defend Afghans’ rights and address common security concerns. Click here to read…

Resistance Front Commander Allegedly Surrenders to Authorities in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

The state-run Bakhtar News Agency reported on Thursday, December 1, citing security sources in Panjshir province of northern Afghanistan that a National Resistance Front (NRF) commander relinquished to the new government. “Twelve rebels led by commander Baz Mohammad and his brothers Mohammad Arez and Nek Mohammad joined the Islamic Emirate,” Bakhtar reported quoting security officials in Panjshir province. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

50 model mosques to be inaugurated this month upon PM Hasina’s approval – Dhaka Tribune

Fifty model mosques are scheduled to be inaugurated during the last week of this month if Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina approves. The information was revealed in the meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Religious Affairs held at Sangsad Bhaban in Dhaka on Thursday. Besides, preparations are being made to inaugurate 50 more model mosques at the end of next February. Click here to read…

Exploring new opportunities with Malaysia – Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh and Malaysia already enjoy a strong relationship, with thousands of migrant workers and expats from Bangladesh going to Malaysia on a yearly basis. However, as has been editorialized numerous times in this newspaper, we must look to build upon and expand our relationship with other nations, especially those with whom we already have a strong bond. Click here to read…

Gaibandha by-election: Irregularities well-orchestrated – The Daily Star

The Election Commission recommended punishment for 134 officials involved in Gaibandha-5 by-polls after its probe found their involvement in irregularities and negligence in performing duties. Click here to read…

Bhutan

ACC finds risks in dredging and surface collection– Kuensel Online

The 2021-2022 year was mired with controversies in the allotment of dredging sites and surface collection in Samtse and Phuentsholing. Some proponents even complained to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) seeking investigation since they suspected possible policy corruption within the government agencies. In its annual report 2021-2022 released to the media on November 29, ACC highlighted some key findings from the system study conducted on the management of surface collection and dredging of RBM. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives and Korea celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations – Raajje

Maldives and Korea have celebrated 55 years of diplomatic relations A “cultural and sports” event was held on Wednesday night to mark the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Maldives and Korea. The ceremony featured various traditional Korean games and activities. Speaking at the ceremony, Korean Ambassador Jeong Woonjin said this is the first such event since the outbreak of the coronavirus. The 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Maldives and Korea marks a new chapter in the relationship, he said. Click here to read…

Foreign reserves decline by US$ 40 mln – Avas
The Maldives’ official reserves fell by US$40.7 million in October. The central bank, Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)’s statistics show that the reserves have been declining month by month since April this year. The figures show that the government’s official reserves stood at US$499.6 million as of October. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Junta Sentences Seven Students to Death – the Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s junta on Wednesday handed down death sentences to seven Dagon University students in Yangon who took part in anti-regime protests. Dagon University Students’ Union confirmed that Ko Khant Zin Win, Ko Thura Maung Maung, Ko Zaw Lin Naing, Ko Thiha Htet Zaw, Ko Hein Htet, Ko Thet Paing Oo and Ko Khant Linn Maung Maung were sentenced in closed trials by a military tribunal. The seven were arrested in April for alleged involvement in the shooting of Global Treasure Bank branch manager Saw Moe Win, a former military officer. Click here to read…

PH, Cambodia agree ‘patience’ is best way to deal with Myanmar – Philippine Information Agency

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen agreed that “patience” is key to dealing with the deepening crisis in Myanmar. The two leaders made this remark in a bilateral meeting Thursday on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Phnom Penh. “So perhaps your advice Mr. Prime Minister as you have great experience in this matter, perhaps your advice to be patient, is the best that we can do right now. But we can still do more in terms of engagement in Myanmar. I’m in full agreement with you, Mr. Prime Minister, that that is the way forward,” Marcos told the Cambodian leader in the meeting. Click here to read…

Myanmar junta arms convoy from Indian border attacked

According to the Kalay People’s Defence Force (PDF) the Myanmar junta has been getting arms from India and transporting them from the border through Sagaing Region. According to the PDF, on 25 November a junta convoy carrying weapons from India travelled from Tamu Town, on the border with India in Sagaing Region, to Kalay, also in Sagaing. The arms convoy stayed overnight at the Ra-1 Prison Camp in Kalay City before continuing the next morning. They were attacked at 10:20 a.m. on 26 November, by Kalay PDF between 56 Mai Village and Mya Lay Mountain where the Kalay PDF mine squad had set mines. Click here to read…

Nepal

Dahal wants to be prime minister. Does he stand a chance? – The Kathmandu Post

Maoist chair Dahal, and Deuba reportedly have a gentleman’s agreement to lead the next government by turns; Maoist Centre insiders say Dahal wants to become prime minister for the first two and a half years. But Deuba is quietly making his own preparations to head the new government and is working to bring the Janamat Party and the Nagarik Unmukti Party, besides the Loktantrik Samajbadi Party, on board. On Thursday Deuba separately met Janamat Party chief CK Raut and Loktantrik Samajbadi Party chair Mahantha Thakur. Raut also met Dahal on Thursday evening and discussed the possibility of joining the government. Click here to read…

Utility seeks bids to supply solar power to grid – The Kathmandu Post

Nepal Electricity Authority has invited proposals from developers for setting up solar plants connected to the grid so they can sell power through competitive bidding. The NEA plans to buy a maximum 100MW of power from such solar plants proposed to be developed by the private sector at 16 locations across the country. Up to 230MW of solar power plants could be developed in those locations. This is for the first time that the state-owned power utility sought to buy solar power through bids. Click here to read…

Re-polling underway in 10 polling centres of Dolakha – The Kathmandu Post

A meeting held by the Election Commission on November 27 had decided to conduct re-polling, citing unfair play and absence of a free and fearless environment at the polling centres on November 20. According to the district’s Chief Election Officer Dilliratna Shrestha, re-polling began at 7:00 am on Thursday. Click here to read…

Nepal election: Sher Bahadur Deuba as PM may make US and India feel more comfortable — but that doesn’t mean stability – Indian Express

In a strategically located country, the fact that both the US and India will feel more comfortable working with Deuba, given their past experience of his help in reducing China’s influence, which grew during Oli’s tenure. But that does not guarantee a stable government. The Opposition — UML and others — will be far stronger after the elections and hold the government to account. The era of imposed consensus and “fast-track” methods, which allowed governments to circumvent rules and procedures is likely to end. Click here to read…

Pakistan

No formal talks or agreement with TTP, says Rana Sanaullah: Dawn

A day after an attack claimed by the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) took the lives of four people in Quetta, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah denied the initiation of formal talks with the terror outfit and vowed a crushing response by security forces to nip the terror threat in the bud. Click here to read…

No criticism of new chief and army, Imran Khan directs PTI leaders: The News

PTI Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan has directed his party leaders and social media team to ensure that there is no criticism of the army and the new COAS General Asim Munir. According to a PTI source, Imran Khan in a Whatsapp group of party leaders and PTI social media managers directed, “Please ensure there is no criticism of the new Chief and Army Staff.” Click here to read…

November inflation eases to 23.8pc: The News

Pakistan’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation eased to 23.8 percent in November 2022 from 26.6 percent in October, mainly due to a slowdown in house-rent, utility charges, food and transportation expenses, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported on Thursday. Click here to read…

‘$4b’ flood aid received so far: The Express Tribune

The Senate Standing Committee on Planning and Development was informed on Thursday that Pakistan had so far received financial foreign assistance worth over $4 billion to support flood relief activities in the country. Officials from Economic Affairs Division informed the committee that out of the total financial assistance, the international development partners had extended an amount of $3.64 billion in the form of loans and $435.03 million in the form of grants. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

President: Sri Lanka can be converted to a ‘Regional Hub’ of education in Asia – Daily News

We annually spend US$ 3 billion when our students go abroad for higher education. Developing the education sector is a step taken for the betterment of the future generations. We can earn US$ 10 billion if we develop the education sector as a Regional Hub. Click here to read…

Debate stresses need for Foreign Service Reforms – Daily News

Some attempts were made to divert the focus on Foreign Policy and Foreign Service earlier this week during the debate on the votes for the ministry in the Budget 2023. The diversionary tactics included the focus to shift towards recent malpractices of a third secretary in Sri Lanka Embassy in Oman and on the efforts to solve the ethnic issue and devolution of power. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Blast Rocks Capital of Samangan: Tolo News

A blast occurred in Jahdia seminary during afternoon prayers on Wednesday in Aybak city in Samangan. According to local officials, the blast left 19 people dead and 23 others wounded. “So far, 23 wounded have arrived and, unfortunately, 19 fatalities,” said Sayed Osman Sayedi, deputy head of Samangan province. Click here to read…

High-Level Pakistani Delegation Arrives in Kabul: Tolo News

A senior Pakistani delegation led by Minister of State Hina Rabbani Khar arrived in Kabul on Tuesday morning and met with acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Muttaqi discussed the release of Afghan detainees in Pakistan, the transport of goods and passengers between countries, and trade issues, the statement said. Click here to read…

Pakistan’s Hina Rabbani Stresses Imperative of ‘Practically’ Engaging with Afghan Government: The Khaama Press

According to a statement from the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, November 29, the Pakistani official Hina Rabbani Khar undertook a one-day official visit to Afghanistan where she met with the current Afghan administration’s several authorities. Click here to read…

‘Islamic System is What Every Afghan Wants,’ Says Afghan Deputy PM: The Khaama Press

The political deputy of the Afghan prime minister, according to the state-run Bakhtar News Agency, met with influential figures of Maidan Wardak, Baghlan, Takhar, Kapisa, Parwan, and Panjshir provinces, in the Sapidar Palace in Kabul, the Afghan capital. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

41 eminent citizens call for quick implementation of CHT accord – Dhaka Tribune

A total of 41 eminent citizens has demanded the speedy implementation of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) agreement by removing all obstacles. On December 2, 1997, the Chittagong Hill Tracts and the government of Bangladesh signed this historic agreement in an effort to find a political solution to the Chittagong Hill Tracts issue. It is alleged that a powerful section of the government administration is creating major obstacles in the implementation of the CHT agreement, the statement saidClick here to read…

December 1, 1971: When Indira Gandhi ‘had to’ intervene – Dhaka Tribune

The Bangladesh Liberation War escalated to its peak at the end of November, when Pakistan’s military ruler General Yahya Khan declared a state of emergency on November 23, 1971 in the face of a mobilization of troops by India. Active fighting continued in the border areas of East Pakistan in the last week of November, with some Indian officials seen increasingly open about the fact that Indian troops had gone across the border. But they continued to maintain that the crossings were aimed at quelling Pakistani shelling and were an act of self-defenseClick here to read…

Quader: If BNP resorts to anarchy, it will be handled strictly – Dhaka Tribune

Awami League (AL) general secretary Obaidul Quader on Wednesday said if BNP wants to create anarchy centering its rally in the name of movement, it will be handled with an iron hand. “If BNP adds elements of violence to its movement, the Awami League along with the people will give a befitting reply to it,” he told a press briefing at the Secretariat here. Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, questioned: “Why did the BNP select the December 10 for its rally? Did not BNP know the history of Bangladesh?” Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan is an exemplary country when it comes to gender equality– Kuensel Online

Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering during the National Assembly yesterday said that Bhutan does not have gender inequality. This was in response to MP for Khar-Yurung Tshering Chhoden’s question. Tshering Chhoden asked Lyonchhen what is being done in preparation to achieve the gender goal of 50 percent women leadership representation by 2030. She said that the minutes of the world conference of women in 1995 in Beijing set this goal. She also said that Bhutan has only 16.5 percent women representation in Parliament, 12.6 percent in Local Government, 39.8 percent in civil service, and 18 percent at the executive level. Click here to read…

Maldives

President Solih offers condolences following the passing of Chinese ex-President Jiang Zemin – Raajje

The Maldivian leader has offered condolences following the passing of the former President of China Jiang Zemin. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih extended his condolences in a message to the President of China, Xi Jinping on Wednesday. In his message, President Solih stated that as China mourns the death of their former President Jiang Zemin, he extends sympathies to the people and President of China, on behalf of the government and people of MaldivesClick here to read…

“Maldives committed to address global environmental agenda through development of informed policies” – Raajje

Vice President Faisal Naseem has reiterated the commitment of the Maldivian government to address the global environmental agenda through the development of informed policies on nitrogen management in the archipelago nation. The Vice President made this remark while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the “South Asian Nitrogen Hub” (SANH) meeting in the Maldives. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Defending human rights in post-coup Myanmar – sydney.edu

The military coup in Myanmar in February 2021 plunged the country into crisis. After seizing power from a democratically elected government, the military junta met nationwide protests with brutal force, arresting, torturing and killing its perceived opponents. The violence sparked an armed uprising, while the country’s economy, health and education systems have teetered on collapse. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s exiled National Unity Government cautiously recognises rights of Rohingyas – The Hindu

The laws of Myanmar that prompted one of the largest refugee crises in recent decades involving the Rohingya community of the Rakhine province is deeply unpopular among the democratic anti-junta forces. The Hindu was told recently that the ruling military junta is under growing pressure from the “troops” of the National Unity Government (NUG) which is being “actively engaged” by several countries, including France and the United States. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s Civilian President Warns NUG Ministers not to Raise False Hopes – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s civilian National Unity Government (NUG) Acting President Duwa Lashi La cautioned ministers and deputies on Tuesday not to raise false hopes among the Myanmar people. “We cannot forget that the citizens of Myanmar, both at home and abroad, are the primary source of support for the revolution and that it is difficult for governments that lack the support of the public to survive long-term,” Duwa Lashi La told the NUG’s cabinet on Tuesday. Click here to read…

Nepal

Congress reaches out to Janamat Party chief Raut to discuss new government – The Kathmandu Post

CK Raut, president of the Janamat Party, held talks with Nepali Congress leader Bimalendra Nidhi on Wednesday and offered to join the new ruling coalition. Nidhi confirmed to the Post about his meeting with Raut. Nidhi later visited Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and briefed him about his meeting with Raut. During their meeting at Baluwatar, Nidhi informed Deuba that Raut has offered to support the ruling coalition in both the federal parliament and provincial assemblies and that the coalition should start talks with the Janamat Party. Click here to read…

Why Nepal election is good news for India – India Narrative

The results of Nepal’s pivotal elections are yet to emerge, but it is likely that that the dice is loaded in favour of the Nepali Congress-led five party alliance. This is good news for India. In fact, if the NC had not emerged as the largest single party to triumph in the polls, it would have further tempted China to unite all the communist parties leading to the emergence of a new government led by the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), backed by a few smaller parties or independentsClick here to read…

PR vote count: UML gets 2.7 million votes, NC following – Khabarhub

As per the details of the Election Commission recorded till Wednesday, the CPN UML is leading the vote count. The party has received 2,720,639 votes out of 10,171,273 valid votes so far. Similarly, the Nepali Congress has obtained 2,585,090 votes followed by the CPN (Maoist Centre) with 1,153,443. Likewise, the Rastriya Swatantra Party has garnered 1,104,245 votes, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party 579,275, the Janata Samajbadi 408,964, the Janamat Party 376,199, the CPN (Unified Socialist) 290,196 and the Nagarik Unmukti Party 268,436. Click here to read…

China’s stakes in the Nepal election – ORF online

The Chinese are closely following the recent Nepalese election. The last few months saw China carrying out back-to-back high-level exchanges with Nepal. In March 2022, days after the Nepalese parliament ratified the much-debated United States (US) Millennium Challenge Corporation(MCC) Compact, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a state visit to Kathmandu and expounded on China’s “Three Supports” for Nepal in terms of “blazing a development path suited to its national conditions, … in pursuing independent domestic and foreign policies… and in participating in Belt and Road cooperation to a greater extent”. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Govt to review strategy after TTP calls off truce: The Express Tribune

Official sources told The Express Tribune that there would be a “review” of Pakistan’s strategy following the TTP announcement earlier this week and spike in terrorist attacks. In June, the TTP announced an indefinite ceasefire after a series of meetings between the Pakistani representatives and the militant outfit in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Newly appointed COAS Gen Asim calls on PM: The Express Tribune

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Muneer and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza separately called on President Dr Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Islamabad-Moscow talks: Pakistan seeks Russian crude at 30-40pc discount: The News

Pakistan was represented by State Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik during the talks held in Moscow. Secretary Petroleum Capt (retd) Muhammad Mahmood, Joint Secretary and officials of the Pakistan Embassy in Moscow accompanied the state minister. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

President issues strong statement after COP27 Conference – Daily News

Having participated in the COP27 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt earlier this month, President Ranil Wickremesinghe issued a statement on Tuesday (29) on its outcome. The President was critical of the countries that were historically accountable for the greatest damage and who are capable of meaningful contributions but who have stymied the furtherance of climate action. Following is the statement issued by President Ranil Wickremesinghe. “For 27 years, world leaders have been meeting under the COP framework to confront the greatest threat to the future of humanity – climate change. Yet, we are no closer to the implementation of a universal and collaborative plan of climate action as mandated by the COP process. Click here to read…

World Bank assures continuous support to Sri Lanka – Colombo Page

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena held discussions with World Bank Country Director Chiyo Kanda and senior Strategy and Operations officials about the progress of ongoing projects and proposed future projects, Prime Minister’s Office said. The Prime Minister briefed the delegation about the steps taken by the government to overcome economic challenges and said the new reforms would result in early conclusion of monetary arrangements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). World Bank Country Director expressed satisfaction over the short term measures to ease the economic situation and stressed the need for continuous midterm and long-term efforts. She assured continuous support to Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Four UPFA allies shun Maithripala’s summons – Daily News

Secretaries of four constituent Parties in the UPFA have informed the UPFA Leader and former President Maithripala Sirisena that they would not participate in the executive committee meeting which had been summoned by him yesterday National Congress Leader A.L.M.Athaullah, Eelam People’s Democratic Party Douglus Devananda, Mahajana Eksath Peramuna Secretary Thissa Jayawardena and T.Kalansuriya of the Desha Vimukthi Party have sent letters to the UPFA leader separately. They have informed the former President Maithripala Sirisena that an executive committee meeting of the UPFA can only be convened by its General Secretary Mahinda Amarawera and the Leader of the Alliance does not have any authority to summon such a meeting. Click here to read…

Geopolitical tensions and repaying external debt – Daily Mirror

To India, developments in Sri Lanka are always a great matter of interest. Due to Lanka’s proximity to India, developments in our country are always a matter of great interest to India – regarding its security concerns.
Since the LTTE insurgency, relations between India and Lanka were strained. The development of close relations between China and Sri Lanka during regime of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in Indian eyes, appeared to give China unprecedented access to this country and raised fears in India due to its perennial border disputes with that country.
Resultantly, we see India shedding its post-independence insecurity about the presence of Western powers in its neighbourhood and attempting to balance out what it sees as China’s forays into its (India’s) sphere of influence, with closer relationships with the US – as for example the QUAD grouping a security arrangement between Australia, India, Japan and the US. In the more recent past – especially in the aftermath of our economic meltdown- India has proven to be a saviour to our country. At a time when hunger stalked our nation, India provided us with all manner of help ranging from lines of credit, to food, medicine and many other essentials. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Participants in Herat Security Dialogue Discuss Situation in Afghanistan: Tolo News

Participants at the 10th Herat Security Dialogue meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, emphasized the need to establish an inclusive government in Afghanistan that upholds women’s rights and prevents drug trafficking in Afghanistan. While speaking at the meeting, the special envoy of the European Union for Afghanistan Tomas Niklasson, said that the EU will support women’s rights in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

India to Resume Projects in Afghanistan: MUDH: Tolo News

The Ministry of Urban Development and Housing (MUDH) said that the Indian chargés d’affaires, Bharat Kumar, expressed his country’s interest in the improvement of relations and the resumption of Delhi’s projects in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

‘Country being exposed to confrontational politics’ – Daily Star

The BNP wants to hold the Dhaka rally in front of its Nayapaltan headquarters on December 10. But the government said the party must hold it at Suhrawardy Udyan, not Nayapaltan. Both the Awami League and the BNP are at loggerheads over the rally venue. The Daily Star talked with eminent political analyst Al Masud Hasanuzzaman, professor of Government and Politics at Jahangirnagar University, for an insight into the current situation. Click here to read…

India, Bangladesh establish contact as more Kuki-Chin refugees are expected to enter Mizoram – The Hindu

Ten days after the first batch of over 270 Kuki-Chin refugees crossed over to India fearing an attack from Bangladesh security forces, government officials estimate that 150 more refugees are expected to seek shelter in Mizoram in the next few days. A source said India and Bangladesh are aware of the unique seriousness of the issue and are in contact with each other. Click here to read…

From the third dimension ‘Tritio Matra’ to multiple dimensions – Dhaka Tribune

An uninitiated may be forgiven if she/he thought that the Bay of Bengal Conversation, a conference Mr Zillur Rahman, the anchor of Tritio Matra helped organize, was a grand gathering of the alumni of the Tritio Matra under the banner of Centre for Governance Studies, a think-tank. At first blush, that’s what it looked like. But what made it more than an alumni gathering was the participation of a bevy of high-quality international participantsClick here to read…

Bhutan

NRDCL to operate timber extraction based on demand in the eastern region – Kuensel Online

Of the six Forest Management Units (FMU) in the eastern region, NRDCL has temporarily suspended the operation of four – Rongmanchu in Lhuentse, Dongdechhu in Trashiyangtse, and Kharungla and Wamrong in Trashigang. Only Lingmethang in Mongar and Khengzor in Pemagatshel are operational. NRDCL officials said that hardwood extracted from those sites has market issue and the FMU committee meeting decided to temporarily stop operation. Click here to read…

Maldives

‘Dosti gehri hai’: Maldives thanks India for USD 100 million assistance – OneIndia

Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid thanked India for timely and generous financial assistance of $100 million to Male to overcome ongoing economic challenges and said that ties between the countries enable mutual growth. Abdulla Shahid took to Twitter and wrote, “Thank you #India for the timely and generous financial assistance of US$100 million. It is truly the strength of our ties that enable mutual growth and cooperation reaffirming the Maldives-India Partnership.” Click here to read…

Pres. reiterates Maldives’ longstanding solidarity with the people of Palestine – Raajje

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has reiterated the longstanding solidarity of the Maldivian government and people, with the people of Palestine. He said this in a message sent to commemorate the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on Tuesday. The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is marked every year on 29 November since 1978. The President issues messages on the occasion each year, reaffirming Maldives’ commitment to the plight of the Palestinian people. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Bangladesh, Myanmar agree to share prior info on use of airspace near border – Prothomalo

Director General of Border Guard Bangladehttps://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/rakhine-truce-between-myanmar-junta-and-arakan-army-hanging-by-a-thread.htmlsh (BGB) Maj Gen Shakil Ahmed on Tuesday said BGB and Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) will not accept separatists’ activities along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. “BGB and BGP will not accept separatists’ activities along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. For this reason, the border guards of the two countries have agreed to start joint patrolling,” he said. Click here to read…

2 More Former NLD Lawmakers Jailed by Myanmar Junta – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s junta sentenced two former MPs of the ousted National League for Democracy (NLD) to 26 years in prison on Monday. U Wai Lin Aung, who represented Myaungmya Township, and Dr. Pyae Phyo who represented Einme and Wakema, both in Ayeyarwady Region, were jailed by a district court in Myawaddy, Karen State, on Terrorism and Treason (Section 112) charges almost a year after being arrested. Click here to read…

World Bank-backed Yoma Bank Working With Myanmar military’s Mytel Network Operator – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s Yoma Bank, part-backed by the World Bank, is providing banking services to Telecom International Myanmar Company Limited, the operator of the Myanmar military’s Mytel cell phone network, according to Justice for Myanmar (JFM). The activist group revealed that as of March 2022 Yoma Bank, which is affiliated to the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC), held over US$10 million in a US dollar account for Telecom International Myanmar. Telecom International is a joint venture of the military’s Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) conglomerate. Click here to read…

Myanmar junta arms convoy from Indian border attacked – Mizzima

According to the Kalay People’s Defence Force (PDF) the Myanmar junta has been getting arms from India and transporting them from the border through Sagaing Region. According to the PDF, on 25 November a junta convoy carrying weapons from India travelled from Tamu Town, on the border with India in Sagaing Region, to Kalay, also in Sagaing. The arms convoy stayed overnight at the Ra-1 Prison Camp in Kalay City before continuing the next morning. Click here to read…

Nepal

Inflation may continue into next year, central bank says – The Kathmandu Post

Inflation was recorded at 8.5 percent in October 2022 compared to 4.24 percent in the same month last year, according to Nepal Rastra Bank. The central bank stated in its first quarter review of the monetary policy that higher prices may continue into the months ahead. “Inflation may reach the highest single digit and last for around six months,” Prakash Kumar Shrestha, chief of the economic research department at the central bank, told the Post. Click here to read…

New House of Representatives to be less inclusive – The Kathmandu Post

With most Dalit, Janajati and women candiates across parties failing to win the first-past-the-post (FPTP) elections for the House of Representatives, the upcoming parliament is set to become less inclusive than the last one. As many as 35 Janajatis, eight women and only one Dalit have won parliament seats under the FPTP system of elections with almost all results from the November 20 elections already in. Click here to read…

Two new forces enter federal parliament as national parties – The Kathmandu Post

Rabi Lamichhane’s Rastriya Swatantra Party and CK Raut’s Janamat Party make the cut after the election results pour in. Four months ago, media personality Rabi Lamichhane-led Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) made a foray in Nepali politics. Registered on July 1, the party didn’t just win seven seats under the first-past-the-post elections to the House of Representatives, but also has safely crossed the threshold to qualify as a national party. Click here to read…

Economy facing strong headwinds, warns key private sector body- The Kathmandu Post

The private sector, on Tuesday, warned that the ongoing “economic crisis” could deepen if the government failed to manage it properly. They alleged that even the first quarterly review of monetary policy had failed to cheer the economy as many of the concerns raised by the business community remained unaddressed. The hotel industry, issuing a separate press statement, alleged that the government was being indifferent towards the investors. Click here to read…

Pakistan

New COAS Gen Asim takes reins: The Express Tribune

General Sayed Asim Munir on Tuesday took charge as the 17th Army chief of Pakistan at a ceremony held at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi.
The change of command ceremony took place after a gap of six years, as General Qamar Javed Bajwa, now retired, was given a three-year extension in 2019. Click here to read…

Washington pledges support for Islamabad’s anti-TTP efforts: Dawn

The United States and Pakistan have a shared interest in combating threats to regional security, such as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Washington will support the Pakistan government’s efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms, a State Department spokesperson told Dawn on Tuesday. Click here to read…

At least two killed, 22 injured including police in Quetta blast:The Express Tribune

At least two people, including a minor, were killed and 23 were injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) targetted a passing police truck in Quetta’s Belili area. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

‘Chinese debt trap’ China welcomes SL foreign minister’s remarks – Daily Mirror

China welcomes Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Sabry’s rebuttal of the narrative of the so-called Chinese “debt trap” in Sri Lanka, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on Monday. The spokesperson reiterated that China’s assistance to Sri Lanka never comes with any political strings attached, and China never seeks any selfish political gains from its investment and financing in Sri Lanka.
“China fully relates to the difficulties and challenges faced by Sri Lanka and supports relevant financial institutions in discussing with Sri Lanka and properly resolving them. We have all along provided support to Sri Lanka’s socioeconomic development as long as our ability permits,” he saidClick here to read…

New Army Chief of Staff – Daily News

Major General C. D. Weerasuriya RWP RSP ndu, the present Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army has been appointed as the new Chief of Staff of the Army. Major General C.D Weerasuriya RWP RSP ndu yesterday afternoon (29) received the letter of appointment as 61st Chief of Staff of the Army from Army Commander Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, at the Commander’s office. He, who has served as the Commandant, Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force before he took office as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army on June 16, 2022, has also held many key appointments in the Army. He is also the Colonel of the Regiment, Sri Lanka Light Infantry and Mechanized Infantry Regiment. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Hina holds political talks with Afghan govt today – Dawn

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar will pay a one-day visit to Afghanistan on Tuesday (today) to hold a political dialogue with the Afghan interim government. Bilateral relations, including cooperation in areas of education, trade and investment, regional connectivity, people-to-people contacts and matters related to regional security will come under discussion, the Foreign Office spokesperson said in a press release on Monday. Click here to read…

Taliban calls on Iranian investors to invest in Afghanistan – Mehr News Agency

Speaking in a meeting with a group of Iranian investors, held at the venue of the ministry on Monday, regarding the way of investment in Afghanistan, he urged Iranian traders and merchants to make investments in Afghanistan in line with strengthening bilateral relations in relevant fields. During the meeting, Azizi pointed out that the Taliban has paved suitable ways for foreign investment in Afghanistan, adding that Afghanistan is home to large mines and this country has created great opportunities and facilitated the investment of foreign companies as well. Click here to read…

The MoD Says it Has Repaired 60 Helicopters, Fixed-Wing Aircraft – Tolo News

The Islamic Emirate’s Ministry of Defense said that maintenance teams of the Afghan air force have so far repaired more than sixty helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft that were rendered unusable by technical issues. According to the Ministry of Defense’s spokesman, among sixty repaired aircraft, three transport aircraft (Two An-32s and one An-26) have also been repaired and are now ready to fly. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

PM Hasina urges to take effective actions to restore rights of Palestinian people – Dhaka Tribune

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has urged the international community to work together for effective and decisive actions and step up the efforts to restore the legitimate rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people to live in safety, stability, and dignity in a sovereign homeland. She came up with the call on Monday on the occasion of International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The prime minister issued a message marking the day. “On the solemn occasion of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people, Bangladesh joins the international community in reaffirming its unwavering support towards the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people of self-determination and establishment of the State of Palestine based on a two-state solution with pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as its Capital,” she said in the message. Click here to read…

BNP to announce plans to oust government on December 10 – The Daily Star

BNP will announce a set of programmes during its December 10 rally to ensure that the government steps down, said BNP Standing Committee Member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain yesterday. He made the remarks while addressing a roundtable titled “Strengthening Democracy in Bangladesh and the Role of International Community”, held at Jatiya Press Club. Mosharraf said, “The government will see a mass uprising and united movement. It will be ousted from power soon.” He said BNP has already observed eight successful, peaceful divisional movements to “save the people of Bangladesh and protect the country from Awami League’s misrule”.Click here to read…

Tokyo, Dhaka should enhance security co-op – The Daily Star

Japan is the largest bilateral development partner of Bangladesh. It has provided about $27 billion in grants and loans to Bangladesh since 1971. Japan is currently implementing some of the major infrastructure projects. The two countries are willing to elevate the relations to a strategic level during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Japan. Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ito Naoki, shared his views with Porimol Palma of The Daily Star. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Space science and Bhutan’s future – Kuensel Online

On Saturday, November 26, the Indian Space Research Organisation launched nine satellites, including an earth observation satellite (EOS-06) in multiple orbits. The mission was hugely successful. For Bhutan, the achievement carried a special significance because the collaboration between the two friendly nations sent ISRO Nano Satellite-2 into the space. Click here to read…

Maldives

EU integral to Maldives’ development: Foreign Minister

The European Union (EU) is an integral development partner of the Maldives, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid stated last Wednesday at the commencement of the sixth annual Maldives-EU Policy Dialogue. Minister Shahid said that Maldives and the EU have maintained a solid relationship since diplomatic ties were established in 1993. He acknowledged the EU’s continued assistance to the Maldives, and thanked them for their support over the last 29-years. Click here to read…

“Maldives committed to address global environmental agenda through development of informed policies” – Raajje

Vice President Faisal Naseem has reiterated the commitment of the Maldivian government to address the global environmental agenda through the development of informed policies on nitrogen management in the archipelago nation. The Vice President made this remark while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the “South Asian Nitrogen Hub” (SANH) meeting in the Maldives. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Smuggling from Myanmar, Assam govt’s curbs hit arecanut trade in NE states – Dajji World

Due to large-scale smuggling from Myanmar and Assam government’s restrictions, arecanut farmers in the northeastern states, especially Mizoram and Tripura, are affected a lot and are seeking central intervention. The illicit trade of arecanut, which is also known as betel nut or ‘supari’, is on the rise with the security forces, including the Assam Rifles, often seizing thousands of tonnes of the product, along with drugs, exotic animals and other goods smuggled in from Myanmar. Click here to read…

Journalist held by Myanmar urges Japan to pressure junta – The News

A Japanese journalist released from Myanmar in a prisoner amnesty called on Monday for Tokyo to put more pressure on the junta and accept refugees fleeing the Southeast Asian country. Toru Kubota spent three-and-a-half months in prison after being detained near an anti-government rally in Yangon in July along with two Myanmar citizens. Thousands of people have been jailed during a bloody crackdown on dissent in Myanmar since a military coup in February 2021. Click here to read…

Informal ceasefire with Myanmar military ‘not permanent’ solution, Arakan Army says – Myanmar Now

The Myanmar military and the Arakan Army (AA) agreed to a temporary truce last week following months of hostilities in Rakhine State, according to a representative of the ethnic armed organisation. The informal ceasefire was brokered by Nippon Foundation chair Yohei Sasakawa, AA spokesperson Khaing Thukha said at an online press conference on Monday, adding that it went into effect on November 24. Click here to read…

ASEAN’s Myanmar Headache Changes Hands – The Diplomat

Post-coup Myanmar has become something of a “Brahma’s head” for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Member states poke and prod for a year during their respective chairmanships, hoping for some progress on the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) peace plan, inevitably shrug their shoulders in dismay, and then pass the burden on. Brunei did so in 2021, as did Cambodia this year. Soon it will be the turn of Indonesia in 2023. Major powers have stayed away from the morass, deflecting the headache back onto ASEAN by emphasizing its centrality and responsibility for dealing with the group’s perennial black sheep. Click here to read…

Nepal

Red flags in Delhi over China’s push for role in Nepal, Bangladesh projects – Hindustan Times

China First Highway Engineering was not among the five companies that qualified to bid for the Kathmandu Terai-Madhesh Expressway project and was included at a later stage. A range of activities by China in the neighbourhood, from pushing for a role in a major project to manage Bangladesh’s Teesta river to deploying surveillance ships in regional waters and taking on a crucial road project in Nepal, have raised concerns in New Delhi against the backdrop of the dragging border standoff. Click here to read…

Another big blow to Oli in Nepal elections, Nepali Congress can form government in all 7 states- News Day Express

Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has suffered another major setback in Nepal. Like the federal government of Nepal, KP Oli’s party is heading towards defeat in the provinces as well. The Nepali Congress-led coalition is inching towards a majority in all 7 provinces. Analysts say that if the Nepali Congress-led coalition forms the government at the center, then the government of the same coalition can be formed in the provinces as well under the package deal. Click here to read…

Re-polling at 10 voting centres in Dolakha on Thursday – The Kathmandu Post

The Election Commission has decided to conduct re-polls at ten voting centres in Dolakha on Thursday. The commission decided to hold re-polls stating that the voting process was not conducted in a free, fair and fearless environment at the polling centres on November 20. Click here to read…

UML leading PR vote count with 2,550,372 votes – Khabarhub

Out of over 9.3 million votes counted so far under the proportional representation, the CPN (UML) is leading with 2,550,372 votes. The Nepali Congress is following with 2,415,834. Similarly, the Rastriya Swatantra Party has got 1,065,612, the CPN (Maoist Center) 1,078,448, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party 547,011 and the Janata Samajwadi Party 336,096. The Janamat Party and the CPN (Unified Socialist) are struggling to cross the threshold with 277,136 and 255,807 votes respectively.-owned power utility is increasing high-voltage power connections to industrial units. Click here to read…

Pakistan

TTP ends ceasefire with government, orders its militants to ‘carry out attacks in entire country’ – Dawn

The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) on Monday called off the ceasefire agreed with the government in June and ordered its militants to stage attacks across the country, according to a statement from the group. “As military operations are ongoing against mujahideen in different areas […] so it is imperative for you to carry out attacks wherever you can in the entire country,” the statement, which is available with Dawn.com, said while addressing its militantsClick here to read…

BSF shoots down drone along India-Pakistan border in Amritsar – The Tribune

The Border Security Force has shot down a drone that sneaked into the Indian side from Pakistan in Punjab’s Amritsar district, officials said on Tuesday. The BSF personnel fired at the drone on Monday night after they noticed it entering the Indian territory near Chaharpur village, around 40 km north of Amritsar city, they saidClick here to read…

Pakistan, IMF begin online talks on $7 billion loan review – Financial Express

Pakistan reserves stood at $7.8 billion as of Nov. 18, barely enough to cover imports for a month. The Pakistan Stock Exchange fell around 2% on Monday, its first day of trading after the central bank unexpectedly hiked its key policy rate to 16% last week. ARY News reported on Monday that the IMF had asked Pakistan to reduce expenses before talks on the ninth review. Pakistan secured a $6 billion bailout in 2019 that was topped up with another $1 billion earlier this year. The IMF’s board approved the seventh and eight reviews in August, allowing the release of more than $1.1 billion. The ninth review has been pending since September. The IMF told Reuters last week that finalisation of a recovery plan from the floods was essential to support discussions, along with continued financial support from multilateral and bilateral partners. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

India’s Constitution Day celebrations in Sri Lanka – Daily News

India’s ‘Constitution Day’ was observed through a series of events organised by the High Commission of India, Colombo on November 26, 2022. The special day marked the adoption of the Indian Constitution on November 26, 1949. More than 200 schoolchildren from different parts of Sri Lanka enthusiastically participated in the Children’s Art Competition organised on Saturday. Themes of the competition such as ‘Incredible India’ and ‘Fundamental Duties’ were closely linked to India and her Constitution which helped the young and creative students from Sri Lanka develop a closer understanding of their civilizational partner, India. Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay who was the Chief Guest at the Competition, complimented families and teachers of the children for nurturing the talents of the next generation by encouraging them to participate in such competitions. Click here to read…

Senior military officers meet High Commissioner to India Milinda Moragoda – Daily News

Senior military officers from the Sri Lanka Army, Navy, and Air Force following the 62nd National Defence Course at the National Defence College (NDC) in New Delhi, paid a courtesy call on Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India Milinda Moragoda at the High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi. These senior officers, Brigadier UKDDP Udugama, Commodore MDK Wijewardana and Group Captain WPAH Perera highlighted the significance of the content of the National Defence Course conducted by India’s apex institution for the study and practice of National Security and Strategy during the interaction with the High Commissioner. Defence Adviser-Sri Lanka High Commission, India Cmdr. Rohan Joseph also joined the discussion. Established in 1960, the NDC is dedicated to the intellectual development and strategic enculturation of selected senior officers of the Armed Forces and Civilian Government Services of India and those from foreign countries, for higher leadership positions and responsibilities. Click here to read…

Why Sri Lanka needs an Enhanced Naval Fleet – Daily Star
The global maritime domain and the role of naval power in peacetime have changed significantly in recent decades. With the sea as the area of operations naval forces are an essential instrument for the State not only in war, but in peacetime as well. In comparison to the Army and Air Force, naval forces are useful to the State outside a war context as they provide prosperity to the State through the protection of shipping lanes and civilian vesselsClick here to read…

Afghanistan

Afghanistan Discussed by Tajik President Rahman, France’s Macron: Tolo News

The Presidents of Tajikistan and France in a phone conversation discussed the political, social and economic situation in Afghanistan, the office of Tajikistan’s President, Imam Ali Rahman, said in a statement. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

No alliance with BNP – Dhaka Tribune

Amid the speculation that Jatiya Party chairman GM Quader might form an alliance with BNP, the party’s chief patron and opposition leader Raushan Ershad yesterday unequivocally said there is no question of forming an electoral alliance with BNP. About allying with BNP ahead of the next national polls, Raushan mentioned that Jatiya Party has suffered a lot under BNP. “We have seen corruption, mismanagement and inefficiency of ‘Hawa Bhavan’ during BNP’s rule,” she addedClick here to read…

Come together: Is diplomacy the solution to strengthen ties between Myanmar and Bangladesh? – Dhaka Tribune

The 8th Border Conference between Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) has started. The conference, which started on Thursday, November 24, 2022 in Myanmar’s capital Nay Pyi Taw, will continue for five days. The conference includes several points of discussion like such as de-escalation of the tense situation on the border caused by the recent internal conflict in Myanmar, violation of airspace, combating inter-state terrorism, preventing the activities of cross-border criminal gangs, prevention of illegal infiltration among othersClick here to read…

‘SAARC may seem dead, but we should not bury it quite yet’ – Dhaka Tribune

While the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) appears moribund, it remains an indispensable and irreplaceable regional grouping, in whose revival and revitalization Bangladesh has a serious stake and must take the lead in, speakers at a round-table discussion have said. The speakers were deliberating at a round-table discussion entitled: “SAARC Is Dead, Long Live SAARC: Reviving South Asian Regionalism” convened by leading English daily Dhaka Tribune and the think tank Bangladesh Institute of Peace & Security Studies (BIPSS) at a Dhaka hotel on Sunday, as part of a series of seminars on the major issues on the global stage and how Bangladesh should situate itself in the geo-politics of the world today. Click here to read…

Bhutan

India-Bhutan Satellite Testament To Our Special Relationship: PM Modi – NDTV news

The PSLV C54 carried the India-Bhutan SAT, along with India’s Earth Observation Satellite -06 and other satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, read the Ministry of External Affairs press release. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday commended the Department of Information Technology and Telecom (DITT) Bhutan and ISRO on the successful launch of the jointly developed satellite by both countries. Click here to read…

Eight-member committee reviewing PI barrage option – Kuensel Online

A committee of eight experts from Bhutan and India will review the proposal to build a barrage to replace the dam at the 1,200MW Punatsangchhu Hydroelectric Project (PI) and present their recommendation to the governments by the end of January next year. The committee consists of four members from either country. Kuensel learnt that Bhutanese officials presented the construction of a barrage as feasible instead of a dam. Click here to read…

Bhutan to explore sovereign green bonds as alternative financing – Kuensel Online

With the increasing need for financing climate mitigation and adaptation activities, Bhutan will be developing a framework for sovereign green bonds. A sovereign green bond is a debt instrument issued by the government to borrow money from investors with the commitment that the mobilised fund would be spent to finance eligible green projects. This will help close the green investment gap and help countries reach their sustainability targets. Click here to read…

Japan Foreign Minister visit ends – Kuensel Online

State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, TAKEI Shunsuke left Bhutan yesterday after a three-day visit from November 21 to 23. SUZUKI Hiroshi and Tshoki Choden, Director, Department of Bilateral Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs signed the Exchange of Notes for Grant Aid “The Project for Strengthening Health Care Services in Eastern Area”. Through this Project worth 535,000,000 Yen, the Government of Japan will provide medical equipment necessary for health care services for mothers and children to health facilities in six eastern districts. Click here to read…

Maldives

Australia, Maldives officials did not attend China’s Indian Ocean meet – The Hindu

Australia and Maldives said on Sunday they did not participate in the recently held Indian Ocean Region Forum convened by China, which the organisers had claimed brought together representatives from 19 countries in the region, except for India. Both countries clarified there was no official representation at the China-backed forum. According to a statement from the organisers, the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) which is Beijing’s new development aid agency, the forum in Kunming had brought together “high-level representatives” from 19 countries, including Indonesia, Pakistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Afghanistan, Iran, Oman, South Africa, Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Seychelles, Madagascar, Mauritius, Djibouti, and Australia. No representative from India was invited. Click here to read…

Myanmar

How far the ASEAN Summit will bring changes to Myanmar crisis? – The Kashmiri Images

The 40th and 41st ASEAN summits, as well as related summits, were held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from November 8 to 13, 2022. Myanmar’s crisis hits the top of the agenda. Myanmar’s chair sat empty at November 11’s meeting. The move is a bold decision for the ASEAN to exclude the Myanmar Junta from attending the summit. Myanmar politics is turbulent with the clash between democracy, civil war and military rule. Though a dim of hope was aroused in 2011 with the landslide victory of the NLD government, however, the hope was eventually shattered with the military coup in February 2021. Click here to read…

Tourist arrivals in Myanmar double in seven months – The Star

The number of tourists visiting Myanmar during the first seven months of the 2022-23 fiscal year (April 2022-March 2023) jumped by 99.48 percent year-on-year, data from the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism showed Saturday. A total of 144,112 foreign visitors arrived in the Southeast Asian country from April to October this year, up from 72,243 in the same period last year, the data showed. Myanmar resumed the operation of international commercial flights in April this year, and the number of tourists visiting the country has gradually increased. Click here to read…

German government training Myanmar junta soldiers in possible EU sanctions breach – Mizzima

According to campaign group Justice for Myanmar the German government is funding the training of Myanmar military junta personnel in a potential violation of EU sanctions. The German Federal Foreign Office is supplying training through Max Planck Foundation for International Peace and the Rule of Law project for the promotion of maritime peace and security in Southeast Asia. Justice For Myanmar has called on the German government and the Max Planck Foundation to immediately exclude the junta from remaining activities in the project and all other programs, meetings and events. Click here to read…

Nepal

Vote count: NC continues to lead; UML following – Khabarhub

The results of 157 seats out of 165 of the House of Representatives (HoR) under the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) have come out in which Nepali Congress (NC) continues to lead. As per the latest vote count update and the final result, Nepali Congress has obtained 53 seats, and CPN-UML is trailing with 42 followed by CPN (Maoist Centre) with 17 seats. Similarly, CPN (Unified Socialist) got 10 seats while Rastriya Swatantra Party and Rastriya Prajatantra Party got seven seats each. Click here to read…

Rs 37 billion pledged under foreign loans, grants not received – Khabarhub

The government is short of almost Rs 37 billion which has been allocated for the projects and programs in the country’s annual budget, and is to be doled out by receiving foreign loans and grants. In a report submitted to the Ministry of Finance by the Finance Comptroller General Office last week, the government is to receive more than 36.9 billion rupees from the donor agencies. Of the total, Rs 15.27 billion is under the foreign grants and Rs 21.62 billion under the foreign loans. Click here to read…

Controlling fiduciary risks in public finance – The Kathmandu Post

Nepal has pursued the course of federalism with three tiers of government, resulting in horizontal and vertical expansion of 5,758 spending units across the country. With the distribution of power of the purse, the incidences of fiduciary risks have also increased, which are manifested in the growing size of arrears recorded by the Office of Audit General each year and the number of corruption cases filed by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority. Click here to read…

Slump in power use sign of economic woes – The Kathmandu Post

Factories are running below capacity, businesses are down for the lack of loans. On Friday afternoon, the NEA reported the domestic peak demand of 1,396 megawatts of electricity. Officials at the NEA say despite a decrease in temperature, the power demand is not growing as expected, unlike in the past years. The demand from the industrial sector has slumped sharply at a time when the state-owned power utility is increasing high-voltage power connections to industrial units. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Swati held again for tweets against military high-ups: The Express Tribune

PTI Senator Azam Swati on Sunday morning was taken into custody for the second time after a raid at his farmhouse in Chak Shahzad by the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing Islamabad for allegedly tweeting against senior military officials. Click here to read…

Battle for Punjab, KP Assemblies heats up: The News

The Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz has called a parliamentary party meeting on Monday (today) to finalise a strategy to counter an expected move by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf to dissolve the Punjab Assembly. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Foreign Ministry to expand consular services – Daily News

The Foreign Affairs Ministry is focusing on decentralizing consular services of the Ministry to provide an efficient service to the public. Accordingly, in addition to the existing regional offices, it is planned to further decentralize the service to main cities and it will be implemented according to the 2023 action plan, Director General of the Consular Division of the Foreign Affairs Ministry Prikayangika Wijayagunasekara said. She pointed out that in 2023, plans will be implemented with the aim of making the consular service of the Ministry into a more public friendly service. She stated this while participating in a special discussion organized by the Mass Media Ministry to inform the media about the operational plans of each ministry in 2023. Click here to read…

Free diesel for farmers, fishermen from China arrives – Daily News

Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong boarded the oil tanker “Super Eastern” and handed over the 10.6 million litres of diesel, a donation to Sri Lankan farmers and fishermen through related ministries. Distribution will start soon under a mutually agreed modality. The 10.6 million liters of diesel donation by China will be provided free to 232,749 farmers for harvesting 342,266 hectares paddy fields across in Maha Season 2022/23 (20L/hectare) Click here to read…

Neutrality over World Power Struggle – Daily News

Explaining our neutrality stance, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena noted as he addressed the Convocation of Bandaranaike International Diplomatic Training Institute (BIDTI) on October 28, 2022, “It is merely a detached neutrality in regional or international power games.” Obviously we wish to stay out of the developing power struggle for dominance between world powers. We fear the brutality of the West to side with China and we simply cannot afford to lose China. Hence, our strategy is to stay out of the fight altogether. As President Ranil Wickremesinghe observed whilst commenting on the conflict between Russian and West supported Ukraine, when elephants fight, it is the grass that gets trampled. Clearly we do not want to be the grass and are adapting the neutrality stance to keep the war (if it comes to that) and any other form of conflict out of our turf. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Norway Donates $22 Million to Afghanistan: Tolo News

Norway announced its package of NOK 220 million (approximately $22 million) for the UN and World Bank to enhance food security and provide basic services, the Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt announced. Click here to read…

U.S employers urge Congress to pass Afghan Adjustment Act before December: The Khaama Press

According to an International Rescue Committee (IRC) press release, in a letter sent to Congress, employers and business associations across the U.S. emphasized the contributions that Afghans are already making to the social and economic fabric of the country after being in the U.S. for little over a year, and that supporting the Afghan Adjustment Act is not only morally right but also makes economic sense. New IRC data has revealed that Afghans are projected to contribute $1.4 billion in earnings and nearly $200 million in taxes in their first year of employment aloneClick here to read…

Border clashes along Durand line between Afghanistan and Pakistan leave casualties: The Khaama Press

According to the reports, military forces in both sides of the border in the South-Eastern Paktya province have opened fire to each other which has caused casualties. The number of death and injuries were not immediately reported, however, Pakistan media outlets have reported that a number of civilians including women and children have been wounded inside Pakistan border. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Lavrov calls off Dhaka visit – The Daily Star

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has cancelled his planned visit to Dhaka and said he will talk to Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen over the phone today or tomorrow. Lavrov was supposed to be in Bangladesh from November 23 to 24 to attend a minister-level meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). He was scheduled to call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen. “I can understand it. They are very busy. Their activities due to the war have increased to a large extent. Maybe for that reason, he is unable to come,” Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen told a few reporters after an event of the IORA at the InterContinental Hotel. Click here to read…

Bangladesh, Gulf Cooperation Council sign MoU on priority areas – Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Bahrain on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue. Under this MoU, both sides will hold regular consultations for political, economic, cultural, people-to-people contact, climate change, agriculture, food security, and environmental protection cooperation. Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen and GCC Secretary General Nayef Falah Al-Hajraf signed the MoU on Friday. Click here to read…

Bangladesh, India discuss border management, security issues – Dhaka Tribune

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and his Indian counterpart Amit Shah Friday discussed various aspects relating to border management and common security-related issues. The two home ministers held the meeting on the sidelines of ‘No Money for Terror’ (NMFT) Ministerial Conference on Counter-Terrorism Financing, which began in New Delhi on Friday. “Both sides had productive exchanges on border management and common security-related issues,” the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs tweeted in the evening after the meeting. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan’s performance-based pay for civil servants revives debate over similar policy in India – The Print

In November 2015, the 7th pay commission recommended introducing Performance Related Pay — an almost corporate-like pay structure that would be determined on the basis of one’s performance and efficiency — for government employees. It met resistance from some IAS officers and never saw the light of day. With neighbouring Bhutan considering the Pay Structure Bill of 2022, that links performance to incentives for its own civil servants, the spotlight is yet again on the policy. The Bhutanese Bill was brought before the National Assembly by Finance Minister Namgay Tshering on 14 November. Click here to read…

New political party gearing to register with ECB – Kuensel Online

With one more political party being formed, Bhutan could have five parties contesting the elections in 2023. The party doesn’t have a name yet. National Land Commission’s Secretary, Dasho Pema Chewang is going to be its president. He is resigning from the commission on Monday. Dasho Pema Chewang said that the regionally-balanced development, equal opportunity and participation of all social groups in governance, economic transformation by leveraging on technology and strong leadership are some of the party’s initial focus. Click here to read…

Maldives

From Maldives, with hope – UNICEF

The low-lying island nation has sped up land reclamation projects around the country for shoreline protection and tourism development. What is land reclamation, one may ask? Picture this: tons of sand being pumped from the ocean to create new land. UNICEF has been consistently partnering with the government to support climate education in schools, reduce plastic pollution through behaviour change campaigns, engage young people in conversations around climate, and provide them with the tools, support systems and confidence to grow, thrive, and survive in a climate-changed world. Click here to read…

COP27 | U.N. climate talks poised for deal creating ‘loss and damage’ fund – The Hindu

Delegates at the U. N. climate conference in Sharm El-Sheikh continue to negotiate a final agreement, with the latest draft suggesting the creation of a fund to compensate a section of developing countries for the damage already done by disasters linked to climate change. Country representatives at the 27 th Conference of Parties (COP27) of the U. N. Framework Convention on Climate Change are expected to convene again at a closing plenary session in the Egyptian resort town that is to commence late Saturday night by Indian time. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Thirty-five Rohingya sentenced in Myanmar to 5 years in jail – Mizzma

Military Council troops apprehended 62 Rohingya people near Kadonelay island, Kadonkani village-tract, Bogale Township, Ayeyarwaddy Region, at 10 pm on 30 October. ”Thirteen Rohingya under the age of 18 have been sent to the Hnget Aw San training school, and 35 adults have been sentenced to prison. The remaining individuals have been sued for lack of valid travel documents. They were from Gwa Town, Rakhine State,” a representative of a lawyers firm said. Click here to read…

Myanmar Resistance Medics on Front Line of Fight Against Military Rule – The Irrawaddy

Nearly 5,000 of the CDM health workers are now working among resistance groups under the shadow civilian National Unity Government (NUG), according to the CDM Medical Network, which compiles lists of health workers. They include 320 specialist doctors, 560 nurses, 1,554 basic health workers, and volunteers, according to the NUG. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Ramps Up Landmine Use – Human Rights Watch

In 2022, 25 years since the international Mine Ban Treaty was adopted, only two countries actively use antipersonnel landmines: Russia and Myanmar. Myanmar’s forces have used landmines since 1999, but new use by the junta has surged since the February 2021 coup, according to the Landmine Monitor Report 2022, released last week. The report analyzed photographs of hundreds of landmines manufactured by the junta and planted across the country. Click here to read…

Pakistan-Myanmar military axis becoming deeper under Chinese guidance – The Economic Times

Pakistan-Myanmar military industrial link has received a major boost following reciprocal visits by delegation of both the countries. Last month, a senior-level Pakistani military delegation visited Myanmar to inspect a defence industry complex near Yangon and participate in a workshop on JF-17 block II aircraft that Myanmar had purchased from Islamabad, ET has learnt. Click here to read…

Nepal

Vote counting of FPTP, PR being conducted simultaneously – Khabarhub

The Election Commission (EC) has directed the offices of the chief returning officers to ensure vote counting of the first-past-the-post (FPTP) system of the House of Representatives (HoR) and Provincial Assembly, and proportional representation (PR) of the HoR and Provincial Assembly in four different places simultaneously. The EC made such directive as some ballot papers of the HoR and Provincial Assembly were mixed up in some polling stations while voting due to carelessness of the officials and voters. The EC has planned to release the results within eight days. Click here to read…

Nepal Elections Record 61% Voter Turnout, 1 Death Reported In Election Violence – Outlook

The voter turnout is significantly lower as compared to the past two elections, which was 77% in 2013 and 78% in 2017. Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s Nepali Congress-led coalition is likely to win the polls. Chief Election Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya said, “The nationwide voter turnout has stood at around 61 per cent. This is likely to increase slightly as we continue receiving details from districts across the country. This is certainly less than what we had expected.” Click here to read…

What sets this election apart – The Kathmandu Post

Observers say that this time, political parties are primarily focused on power politics rather than specific agendas and ideologies. Yet this election is vital, according to them, as the country passes seven years of promulgation of the new constitution. “Now, there are no such big national or regional campaign agendas,” Adhikari said. “Unlike the 2017 polls, contested between communist and non-communist forces, ad hoc alliances this time have left no room for ideological polarisation.” Click here to read…

Pakistan

Imran claims PDM offered talks, vows to surprise all: Dawn

Days after a meeting between Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Ishaq Dar and President Arif Alvi, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan claimed that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government had approached the former ruling party for talks. Click here to read…

For US, Pakistan remains key regional ally, India global partner: Dawn

“India is an invaluable partner, not just in the region but as it relates to a lot of the United States’ shared priorities across the world,” said the department’s Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel while commenting on Washington’s ties with New Delhi. Click here to read…

Wazirabad attack, Kenya killing plot ‘hatched in London’: The Express Tribune

According to private TV channel on Sunday, Tasneem Haider Shah, who said he was associated with the PML-N for the past 20 years, told a press conference that he had three meetings with PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif in the office of his son Hassan Nawaz, alleging that he was called to kill Arshad Sharif and Imran Khan. Click here to read…

Pakistan sees ‘hope’ for vulnerable communities after UN climate summit adopts ‘loss and damage’ fund:The News

Pakistan Sunday saw “hope” for vulnerable communities all over the world, who are fighting for their survival from climate stress after the UN’s climate summit adopted the “loss and damage” fund. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka targets one million Chinese tourists – Daily Mirror

The Sri Lanka Embassy in Beijing, consistent with its efforts to continuously promote Sri Lankan tourism in the Chinese market, is targeting one million Chinese tourists to visit Sri Lanka after the China travel restrictions are relaxed, a statement from the mission said. Ambassador Dr. Palitha Kohona met with the General Manager of Beijing Spring Travel Service Co., Ltd, Mr.Yang Yang, on November 16, 2022, in order to further bilateral cooperation in the tourism industry. The Ambassador Dr. Kohona said that the Embassy is also exploring all possible ways to position Sri Lanka as a preferred destination in the Chinese Market including a formal request to the authorities. General Manager Mr. Yang said that Beijing Spring Travel Service Co., Ltd is among the top 10 Travel companies in Beijing and Shanghai and has been accorded award certificates many times by the Chinese Government and the travel trade. The annual business turnover of Spring Travel in 2019 was 24.5 billion RMB (3.5 billion USD). Spring Airlines is valued at 50 billion RMB. Click here to read…

Budget 2023 at risk: Dayasiri – Daily Mirror

General Secretary of the SLFP and former Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara said if the budget 2023 gets defeated on December 8th after the third reading as speculated by certain quarters, the country will have to face a snap Parliamentary election in accordance to the Constitution. In the event of failure of passage of the Appropriation Bill in Parliament, the Executive President will have no say as Parliament gets dissolved automatically, he stressed.
Under the normal circumstances, the President is required to dissolve Parliament when 113 members or more make a request or the President is empowered to dissolve parliament at any time on completion of two and half years since the inaugural session of Parliament which falls on February 19th, 2023, he told Daily Mirror. Click here to read…

Govt holds talks with Cyril Ramaphosa on truth seeking mechanism – Daily Mirror

The government held talks with South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa to explore the possibility of getting his country’s support for the establishment of the domestic truth seeking mechanism as part of reconciliation process, a Minister said. The South African leader was in Sri Lanka for a short time on November 16 on his way home from Bali after attending the G20 summit. In South Africa, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was set up to investigate political crimes during the apartheid era. Mr. Ramaphosa was also the chief negotiator of iconic South African leader Nelson Mandela in holding talks with the apartheid regime for transition to democracy. Click here to read…

Basil Returns – Daily Mirror

Former Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa returned to the country last morning to a grand welcome at the BIA. Rajapaksa left for the US in September to receive medical treatment, after the Supreme Court allowed him to travel overseas. A number of SLPP members including Parliamentarians were at the BIA to welcome the former minister on his arrival. It was reported that Basil Rajapaksa will work towards securing a two thirds majority for the budget in Parliament, however Minister Prasanna Ranatunga denied this report and wanted the opposition MPs not to refer to Rajapaksa as ‘Kaputa’. Click here to read…

PTA, ‘Aragalaya’ and need for long-term goals – Editorial- Daily Mirror

The Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) (of 1978 first enacted as a temporary measure in 1979 under J. R. Jayewardene was later made permanent in 1982) is a broad law to search, arrest and detain suspects for periods of up to 18 months. This law has been subject to international condemnation. Originally intended to crush the demand for a separate state in the North and East (under a claim of fighting terrorism), today the self-same PTA is being used in all parts of the country. The use of the PTA more recently began in the aftermath of the ‘Aragalaya’, which followed the fleeing of the past president, acts of violence and arson and the burning down of the incumbent president’s residence. The present protests against the PTA are organized by the Inter University Students Federation (IUSF) who are presently the main targets of the application of the PTA. Two members of the IUSF have been taken into custody, the IUSF is protesting their arrest and demanding their immediate release. Click here to read…