Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

Bourgeoning fiscal deficits a concern – Kuensel

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

Govt. building foundations for the economic road map- Kuensel

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

Bhutan has enough foreign currency reserve: PM – Kuensel

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

Editorial: Let’s give reform a chance- Kuensel

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

Maldives

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

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

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

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

Myanmar

Myanmar Junta Searches Homes After Arakan Army Seizures – The Irrawaddy

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

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

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

Myanmar minister joins Southeast Asian defense meeting – AP News

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

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

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

Pakistan

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

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

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

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

$2.3b loan deal inked with China: The News

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

Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

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

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

Rain stopped, sufferings did not- The Daily Star

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

His Majesty returns from tour of southern dzongkhags- Kuensel

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

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

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

Bhutan and Nepal to sign bilateral trade agreement- Kuensel

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

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

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parallel government in Myanmar creates own digital currency – Laprensalatina

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal

Flight disruption averted, talks on- Himalayan Times

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

NC seeks voting rights for migrant Nepalis- Himalayan Times

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

Journalist Rabi Lamichhane announces new political party- Himalayan Times

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

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

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

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

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

Sublimation of the subaltern- Kathmandu Post

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

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

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

Pakistan

‘Lifeline’ IMF deal secured: Dawn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Afghanistan

2 killed, 28 wounded in Nangarhar explosion- Pajhwok News

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

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

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

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

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

Senior Delegation from Uzbekistan Visits Afghanistan- Tolo News

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

Durand Line Fencing Has Divided Families: Residents- Tolo News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

Universal pension: Govt Okays draft act- The Daily Star

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

Padma Bridge: Envoys laud Sheikh Hasina- The Daily Star

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

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

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

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

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

His Majesty returns from tour of southern dzongkhags- Kuensel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maldives

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

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

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

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

Nepal

Unified Socialist Politburo and Central Committee meeting in Kathmandu- Republica

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

Government decides to stay away from SPP- Kathmandu Post

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal for early seat sharing talks- Himalayan Post

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

Myanmar

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

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

Digital contention in post-coup Myanmar – New Mandala

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakistan

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

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

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

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

Refineries’ shutdown imminent as LC crisis deepens: The News

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

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

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

Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh

Rohingya return: Talks get nowhere- The Daily Star

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

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

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

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

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

Dhaka may get flooded too- The Daily Star

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

All set for grand opening- The Daily Star

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

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

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

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

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

Bhutan

Walk the Talk: Reduce salt, beat NCDs- BBS

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

Sweeping cuts of Parliament budget impacts committee duties- Kuensel

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

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

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

Maldives

SOEs are instrumental in implementing govt. policies: The Sun

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

Covid fatalities reach 300 in Maldives: Edition Mv

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

Myanmar

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

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

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

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

Myanmar’s Military Targeting Children – Persecution.org

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal

Govt to evaluate economic development of local levels- Himalayan Times

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What goes on in Nepal’s elections- Nepali Times

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

Pakistan

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

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

PTI stages nationwide protests against inflation: The Express Tribune

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

PAKISTAN PAYS A RUSSIAN PRICE: The Express Tribune

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

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

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

Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Afghanistan

Estimated Afghan Job Loss 700,000 to 900,000: SIGAR: Tolo News

The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said that the total job losses since the Taliban takeover is projected to reach between 700,000 and 900,000 by mid-2022. Click here to read…

Taliban: No Police Has the Right to Stand at a Police Checkpoint Wearing Civilian Attire: The Khaama Press

The Taliban’s chief of police in Kabul, Wali Jan Hamza, said the process of distributing uniforms to the group forces had begun and that once the it was completed, no one in plain, local and civilian clothes would be allowed to check the people. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Govt took profits of Petroleum Corporation, left it in lurch- The Daily Star

Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation made huge profits for seven years through import of petroleum at low prices but the government took that money, leaving the BPC ill-equipped to cope with the current international market volatility. Click here to read…

Major challenges ahead: speakers- The Daily Star

As the world order is changing with the global powers being more polarised, Bangladesh will be facing more challenges in maintaining balance and securing its national interests in the coming days. Click here to read…

Country gets its first female finance secy- The Daily Star

The government yesterday appointed Fatima Yasmin as the secretary to the Finance Division under the finance ministry. Click here to read…

Prophet remarks: Police block march to Indian High Commission- The Daily Star

Police blocked the march heading towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka at Shantinagar intersection around 12:20pm today. Click here to read…

“Yunus got highest opportunities from AL govt but betrayed Bangladesh”- The Daily Star

Lambasting Dr Muhammad Yunus, PM Sheikh Hasina once again said the World Bank’s funding to the Padma multipurpose bridge project was stopped due to a person who got the highest opportunities from the Awami League government but betrayed the people of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan needs big investment in right sector- Business Bhutan

With the economy at a crossroads, big investment in the right economic sector is the only way forward for the government to revive the economy of the country, according to an economist, Dr. Damber S. KharkaClick here to read…

Customers complain about increasing prices of commodities in Phuentsholing- Business Bhutan

The wholesale price of one carton of Koka noodles was Nu 675 in the past and now it costs Nu 775. The retail price for one carton of Koka is Nu 820 in Phuentsholing. Click here to read…

Fiscal year 2021-22 budget revised to Nu 84B- Kuensel

The finance minister has presented a supplementary budget of more than Nu 3.866 billion (B) for fiscal year 2021-22 in Parliament. Click here to read…

His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo awarded the prestigious Blue Planet Prize- Kuensel

The Asahi Glass Foundation has recognised His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo as one of the two recipients of the Blue Planet Prize, the international environmental award for this year. Click here to read…

Maldives

President decides to establish Maldives Health Services: Edition Mv

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has decided to establish Maldives Health Services to strengthen primary health care system in the nation. Click here to read…

Nepal

Deuba avoids House that awaited response on some pressing issues- Kathmandu Post

Amid calls for answers from him on defence budget and SPP, prime minister plays truant. Click here to read…

On SPP, no party looks clean— all lying, playing to the gallery- Kathmandu Post

A Nepal Army letter shows Nepal applied for the State Partnership Program in October 2015. While the national defence force finds itself in the dock, politicians are equally answerable. Click here to read…

Nepali importers using southern route due to fickle Chinese transit policy- Kathmandu Post

Traders say they are tired of the frequently changing Chinese transit rules and promises which have caused them massive losses. Click here to read…

Fuel prices increase in new list sent by IOC- Republica

The price of fuel has increased in the latest revised price list sent by the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the sole supplier of fuel to the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC). Click here to read…

Seven South African women held with 51 kgs of narcotics worth over Rs 1 billion- Republica

Nepal Police on Thursday made public seven South African women in Kathmandu who were nabbed along with 51 kilograms of heroin worth more than Rs 1 billion. Click here to read…

Ruling, opposition parties disown SPP- Himalayan Post

The United States’ State Partnership Programme has become a political hot potato, with the ruling and the opposition parties eager to wash their hands off it. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Prison Department spokesperson denies execution rumours- Myanmar Now

The official said that no execution order had been issued for the hanging of veteran activist Ko Jimmy or former MP Phyo Zayar Thaw. Click here to read…

Elderly villagers killed in junta raids in Magway’s Pakokku Township- Myanmar Now

One of the victims was beaten to death, while the other, a paralysed woman in her seventies, died in her home after it was set on fire. Click here to read…

Participants in Civil Disobedience Movement found murdered following junta raid in central Myanmar- Myanmar Now

Two resistance fighters, a nurse, headmaster and a teacher—who was pregnant—are captured together before being killed and burned by the military in Magway’s Yesagyo Township. Click here to read…

Ultranationalist monk calls for pro-resistance villages to be ‘erased’- Myanmar Now

U Warthawa, a monk who has played a leading role in recruiting members to junta-backed militias in Sagaing Region, also accused PDF groups of carrying out arson attacks.

(Editorial) Once Again, Military Rule Sparks a Brain Drain in Myanmar- The Irrawaddy

Since the coup, Myanmar has witnessed a mass exodus. Myanmar citizens are once again fleeing the country, and this time entrepreneurs, businessmen, professionals, IT technicians and media personnel are among those who have left or are planning to do so. Click here to read…

(Books) No Place to Call Home in the Junta’s Myanmar- The Irrawaddy

Reading Jessica Mudditt’s new book Our Home in Myanmar: Four Years in Yangon challenges concentration, with its emotionally mendicant millennial obsessions. The plodding prose turned my thoughts to the meaning of home in Myanmar in the aftermath of the 2021 coup and the military regime’s campaign of destroying individual homes, villages, communities and seemingly an entire country. Click here to read…

Union Construction Minister receives Indian Ambassador- GNLM

U Shwe Lay, Union Minister for Construction, received Mr Vinay Kumar, Ambassador of the Republic of India to Myanmar, at the Ministry of Construction in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s foreign trade soars to $5.5 bln over past two months- The Global

MYANMAR’s external trade between 1 April and 3 June of the 2022-2023 Financial Year tremendously rose to US$5.5 billion, reflecting a sharp increase of $546 million as against the year-ago period, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Oil prices add fuel to raging fire of discontent- Dawn

Amid widespread criticism from friends and foes over the government’s decision to increase oil prices for the third time in as many weeks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday defended the move. Click here to read…

SBP forex reserves hit lowest since November 2019- The News

The State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) foreign exchange reserves have dropped by $241 million or 2.6 percent to $9.0 billion as of June 10, central bank data showed on Thursday, hitting their lowest level since November 2019 on the back of lack of external financing amid stalled IMF programme, high payments for oil imports, and pressure on foreign debt. Click here to read…

Pakistan seeks US help to revive IMF deal- The Express Tribune

Pakistan has sought the United States support for the revival of the International Monetary Fund programme, as the global lender has yet to agree to a staff level pact despite the government having taken many difficult steps. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

U.S. to give $6 million in emergency aid to crisis-hit Sri Lanka: CGNT

The United States on Thursday announced that it will provide $6 million in emergency assistance to Sri Lanka to address the needs of the marginalized and vulnerable communities impacted by the country’s economic crisis. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka Left With Fuel Stocks For Around Five Days: NDTV

Chronic fuel shortages have worsened this week with kilometres-long lines at some gas stations countrywide, leading to sporadic protests as vehicle owners wait, sometimes overnight, for petrol and diesel. Click here to read…

WFP ramps up emergency support, beginning with pregnant mothers in need: UN News

The World Food Programme (WFP) on Thursday began distributing food vouchers to pregnant women in underserved districts of the Sri Lankan capital, Colombo, marking the start of the UN agency’s emergency response in the country, which is facing its gravest political and economic crisis since independence. Click here to read…

Protest held in Sri Lankan capital against proposed wind mill project by Adani Group: Indian Express

The protestors in Colombo held placards questioning the lack of transparency in the awarding of the project to the Adani Group while shouting slogans against the Indian business conglomerateClick here to read…

Afghanistan

Islamic Scholars in Badghis Call to Reopen Girls’ Schools: Tolo News

Islamic scholars at a gathering in the western province of Badghis urged the Islamic Emirate to reopen schools for female students in grades 6-12Click here to read…

The World Bank Announces a Critical $150 Million Lifeline for Afghanistan’s Rural Families: The Khaama Press

The World Bank has provided $150 million in aid to Afghan farmers to help them improve their agricultural products, according to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). According to the FAO, this is the first tranche of World Bank assistance, with the second installment, totaling $45 million, expected to be released within the following 24 months. Click here to read…

UN: Millions of Children Under the Taliban Rule Have Been Deprived of Education: The Khaama Press

The UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner, Kelly Clements, traveled to Afghanistan and stated during a visit to a school in Herat province that the majority of the children without the right to education were girls. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

EVM not working at many places: Sakku- The Daily Star

Monirul Haque Sakku, former mayor and independent candidate of Cumilla City Corporation polls, claimed that EVM machines are not working at many places. Click here to read…

Govt taking steps to close dodgy news portals- The Daily Star

Information and Broadcasting Minister Hasan Mahmud yesterday told parliament that a letter was sent to the Department of Posts and Telecommunications to block the links and cancel the domain registrations of 179 online news portals that spread confusion among people. Click here to read…

Scale up Rohingya repatriation efforts- The Daily Star

Bangladesh has urged the UN to scale up its programme and create conducive conditions in the Rakhine State of Myanmar for Rohingya repatriation, arguing that the efforts on Bangladesh’s side alone will not bring about any lasting solution to the problem. Click here to read…

PM orders building a Padma Bridge museum- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday directed the authorities concerned to set up a museum at the Bhanga end of the Padma bridge to commemorate the country’s landmark achievement. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Govt. to discuss legal aid after NC completes Civil Liability Bill discussion- Kuensel

Five years after sending a resolution to the government on the need to provide legal aid services to indigent persons as mandated by the Constitution, the National Council (NC) members questioned the Prime Minister on the status of the service. Click here to read…

No fuel shortage: Economic affairs ministry- Kuensel

The country has fuel reserves to last for two weeks in the worst-case scenario. This is the message from the economic affairs ministry following a rumour of fuel shortage that forced many to the fuel stations. Click here to read…

(Editorial) Bhutan a bleak destination for foreign investors?- Bhutan Times

A study conducted on economic freedom by an American research and educational institution and think tank based in Washington DC, Heritage Foundation, has ranked Bhutan the 94th freest country with a economic freedom score of just 59.3 in the 2022 index. Click here to read…

Maldives

President Solih decides to establish ‘Maldives Health Services’: The Sun

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Tuesday, has decided to establish ‘Maldives Health Service’. The decision was taken by President Solih followi at the recommendation of his cabinet. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Resistance Rejects Junta Calls to Surrender – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s people’s defense forces (PDF) and other resistance fighters have rejected junta proposals to lay down arms and join them, saying they will never surrender to killers. In a June 11 announcement, the regime asked resistance fighters to surrender and return to civilian lives, saying they will be “welcomed” to rejoin society. Click here to read…

Rohingyas: Dhaka asks Nay Pyi Taw to expedite verification for early repatriation – Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh and Myanmar on Tuesday held “substantive discussions” on all issues related to the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingyas to their homeland. Click here to read…

UN envoy on Myanmar urged to work towards early repatriation of Rohingyas – Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh has called upon the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General to Myanmar to work towards an early implementation of the bilateral return arrangements for the RohingyasClick here to read…

Over 100 Junta Soldiers Defect to Arakan Army in Western Myanmar – The Irrawaddy

Over 100 soldiers including officers have defected from the Myanmar military to the Arakan Army (AA) since last year’s coup, said AA spokesperson Khaing Thukha on Tuesday during a press conference held by the Rakhine State-based ethnic armed organization. Click here to read…

NUG Acting President Calls for People to put an end to Junta’s Planned Election – The Irrawaddy

Acting president of Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG) Duwa Lashi La called on Tuesday for people to prepare to put an end to the fraudulent election planned by the junta for next year, which the country’s democratic forces see as an attempt to prolong military rule. Click here to read…

50th Session of the Human Rights Council Oral update on Myanmar – OHCHR

Since my last update to this Council in February this year, the human rights situation in Myanmar has continued to rapidly decline. Still suffering from the devastating consequences of the February 2021 military coup, the people of Myanmar remain trapped in a cycle of poverty and displacement, human rights violations and abuses. Click here to read…

Nepal

UML stalls House proceedings over ‘budget manipulation’- Himalayan Times

Main opposition CPN-UML today obstructed proceedings of the House of Representatives over alleged manipulation in the new fiscal budget, a day before the budget was presented in the Lower House. Click here to read…

(Opinion) FY 79/80 budget: From the perspective of energy balance- Himalayan Times

Due to the discrepancy in electricity production in the dry and wet season, turbines are not going to operate in their optimum condition – in the dry season, because of inadequate discharge, and in the wet season, because of excess energy. Operating turbines in part load conditions and frequent start-up and shut down might also reduce their life-span. Click here to read…

Khadka defends Uzra Zeya’s visit- Himalayan Times

Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka today defended the recent visit by Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights and US Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues Uzra Zeya to a Tibetan refugee camp. Click here to read…

Arrangements made to provide budget in 171 local units for sports development- Himalayan Times

Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Devendra Paudel, has said an arrangement has been made to provide budget to 171 units in the coming fiscal year for the construction of sports infrastructures. Click here to read…

A US programme triggers new debate on the heels of MCC pact’s passage- Kathmandu Post

American embassy calls a purported SPP draft circulating online as ‘fake’, as questions arise if Nepal is falling into a geopolitical quagmire amid rising global tensions. Click here to read…

Poll body eyeing general, provincial elections in November in one phase- Kathmandu Post

Officials say they are set to meet the prime minister within a week with their plans. Click here to read…

Nepal’s foreign debt liability swells as rupee plunges to an all-time low against dollar- Kathmandu Post

Rupee’s fall due to steady depreciation of Indian rupee to which it is pegged, insiders say. Click here to read…

Maternal mortality rate still high in Banke- The Republica

Despite the government spending billions of rupees on maternal safety programs, the maternal mortality rate has not decreased in Banke. According to the District Public Health Office, 14 women lost their lives in the first six months of the current fiscal year 2021/22 while 35 people each had died in the last fiscal year 2020/21 and 2019/20. Click here to read…

After protests, Deuba clarifies he won’t sign the US-proposed State Partnership Program- Online Khabar

As the draft agreement for the US-proposed State Partnership Program got criticised by several political parties and the public, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has clarified he will not sign the deal during his visit to Washington, DC, to be held next month. Click here to read…

Nepali reaps peace dividend 17 years after war- Nepali Times

How a former teacher is far ahead of Nepal’s politicians in turning wild cannabis into a cash crop. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan, IMF agree ‘social protection’ is top budgetary priority: Dawn

On Friday, Pakistan unveiled a $47 billion budget for 2022-23, which includes several fiscal consolidation measures that Islamabad hopes will convince the IMF to resume the much-needed bailout payments to the country. Click here to read…

Defence budget shrinking in GDP terms: DG ISPR: The Express Tribune

The chief military spokesperson has sought to quash the perception that the defence budget has been hiked for the next fiscal year, saying that defence allocations have actually been reduced if inflation and rupee depreciation are factored in. Click here to read…

President Biden for building strong basis for moving Pak-US ties forward: The News
US President Joe Biden, in a brief conversation with Pakistan’s Ambassador Sardar Masood Khan, expressed his desire to build a strong basis for moving ties between the two countries forward. According to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Embassy in Washington, Ambassador Masood Khan visited the White House to meet and greet the US president on MoClick here to read…

Punjab political crisis shows no signs of abating: The News

The crisis in the Punjab Assembly deepened on Tuesday after the government failed to present the annual budget 2022-23 even on the second day due to the deadlock with PA Speaker Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka gives government workers extra day off a week: BBC

Sri Lanka is giving government officials an extra day off a week to encourage them to grow food, amid fears of a food shortage. The country has around one million public sector employees. Click here to read…

Adani Enterprises wind power project caught in Lankan political crossfire: Business Standard

The controversy over the Adani investment in the neighbouring nation stems from domestic power politics in which a bureaucrat has become collateral damage. Click here to read…

New Indian Credit Line to Help Buy Fuel for Another 4 Months: NDTV

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesighe on Tuesday said that a new Credit Line provided by India will support the cash-strapped island nation’s fuel purchase for another four months from July even as an LPG shipment of 3,500 MT reached Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

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

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

Two Factories Start Operating in Herat Industrial Park: Tolo News

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

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

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

Bangladesh

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

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

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

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

Jet fuel price goes up- The Daily Star

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

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

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

Ensure inclusive national election- The Daily Star

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

Move to return workers to Bahrain underway- The Daily Star

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

Bhutan

Nu 4B bond offers for public subscription- Kuensel

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

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

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

Govt. is exploring more hydropower projects- Bhutan Times

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

Yoga reaches RENEW-Gawaling Happy Home- Bhutan Times

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

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

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

Maldives

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SHE TALKS PEACE: Myanmar community army – MindaNews

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

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

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

Nepal

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

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

Forest minister seeks collective support in conservation efforts- Himalayan Times

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

Budget sought for climate change adaptation- Himalayan Times

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Afghanistan

UN Calls on Islamic Emirate to Honor Promise on Girls’ Education: Tolo News

The members of the UN Security Council have expressed their deep concern regarding the inability of girls beyond grade six in Afghanistan to return to their schools, as they were promised. Click here to read…

EU: Decision on Girls’ Schools Impacts Engagement: Tolo News

The European Union on Monday in a statement said the decision on girls’ education by the Islamic Emirate violates the fundamental right to education, and called for the immediate re-opening of secondary schools for girls in the country. Click here to read…

WB suspends $600M worth of projects in Afghanistan over school ban: The Khaama Press

The World Bank has announced that they have put on hold four projects in Afghanistan worth of $600 million following the ban on girls’ secondary schools in the country. The projects that were funded by Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) concentrated on agriculture, education, health, and livelihood. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

World Bank approves $358m for safer roads in Bangladesh- The Daily Star

World Bank today approved $358 million to help Bangladesh improve road safety, and reduce fatalities and injuries from road accidents in selected high-risk highways and district roads. Click here to read…

Russel wanted to be an army officer: PM- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today asked Bangladesh Armed Forces personnel to always be ready to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty. Click here to read…

Only 3,000 social workers to protect vulnerable children in Bangladesh: Unicef- The Daily Star

Over 100,000 social workers are needed in Bangladesh to adequately respond to the needs of vulnerable children, but currently there are only 3,000 social workers in the country, Unicef has said. Click here to read…

Freedom of expression still heavily curtailed in Bangladesh: Amnesty International- The Daily Star

Freedom of expression continued to be heavily curtailed by draconian laws” in Bangladesh in 2021, Amnesty International has said. Click here to read…

Can firmly say Rab last resort in rescuing abducted victims: DG- The Daily Star

The Rapid Action Battalion’s success in combating crime with upholding humanity is unprecedented in the world, said its Director General Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Click here to read…

Bomb attack on Benapole land port workers: 3 cases filed against 36- The Daily Star

Three cases have been filed against 36 people in connection with yesterday’s crude bomb attack on workers of Benapole Land Port in Jashore’sSharshaupazila, which left 20 people injured. Click here to read…

Onion import to continue: agriculture secretary- The Daily Star

The option to import onion will remain open now in order to keep the price of the cocking ingredient stable ahead of Ramadan, said Agriculture Secretary Md Sayedul Islam. Click here to read…

US to provide $152m aid for Rohingyas, host communities: Ambassador- The Daily Star.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, has announced USD 152 million in new humanitarian assistance for nearly one million Rohingyas and host communities. Click here to read…

Santal farmers killed selves being deprived of irrigation water: Farmers tell probe body blaming operator- The Daily Star

While the probe committee from the Ministry of Agriculture visited Rajshahi’sGodagariupazila today, many farmers elaborately told them that the death of two santal farmers was primarily because the operator deprived them of irrigation water. Click here to read…

BNP incited left parties to call hart all- The Daily Star

Information Minister Hasan Mahmud yesterday said BNP instigated left-leaning political parties to enforce hartal, which protested price hike of essentials. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Actions will be taken on free-roaming Covid-19 positive cases- Kuensel

The increasing number of positive cases in the community is attributed to the people not isolating themselves strictly after testing positive. Click here to read…

India releases Nu 737M for 12th Plan projects- Kuensel

The government of India released Nu 737 million (M) yesterday for projects including roads, urban development and school infrastructure. Click here to read…

8Economic affairs ministry proposes options to reduce fuel price- Kuensel

The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MoEA) has proposed numerous interventions to the Cabinet to reduce fuel prices. Click here to read…

Maldives

The Maldives, UAE sign MoU on experience exchange on gov’t development, modernization: Raajje M

A significant agreement has been signed between the Maldives and United Arab Emirates (UAE), as part of Vice President Faisal Naseem’s ongoing visit to the UAE. Click here to read…

Myanmar

The Day Civilians Took Office in Myanmar After 53 Years of Military Rule – The Irrawaddy

On this day in 2016, a civilian government took office for the first time in 53 years in Myanmar following the National League for Democracy (NLD)’s victory in the November 2015 general election. Click here to read…

In Solidarity with Coup Leader, Myanmar Ex-Generals Appear at Armed Forces Day Event – The Irrawaddy

The appearance of ex-generals from the previous Myanmar military regime at the Armed Forces Day commemoration and subsequent ceremony hosted by the current regime on Sunday proves that they are all in solidarity with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, who staged a coup that has so far killed 1,700 people. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Helicopter Crashes in Chin State – The Irrawaddy

A military helicopter crashed and injured five people onboard at Hakha, Chin State’s capital, on Tuesday morning, according to Myanmar’s junta. It is the third air force crash since June. Myanmar’s air force is known for frequent deadly crashes, even during training exercises, due to its largely outdated fleet.Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Enacts Law Allowing It to Deploy Police to Front Lines – The Irrawaddy

The Myanmar military regime has enacted a new law making it compulsory for law enforcement officers to fight alongside soldiers on the front lines, while expanding their powers to restrict citizens’ civil liberties. Click here to read…

Karen Ethnic Armed Group Tells Myanmar Govt Employees in Its Area to Quit – The Irrawaddy

District level Karen National Union (KNU) offices recently called on non-striking government employees working for the regime in KNU-controlled areas to resignClick here to read…

Public to Boycott Myanmar Junta’s New Year Water Festival – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar could not celebrate Thingyan in 2020 and 2021 because of COVID-19 and military rule but this year the regime is trying to bring the Burmese new year festival back to life. Click here to read…

Airstrikes Continue After Myanmar Junta Suffers Heavy Losses – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military continues using helicopters to attack villages near the Thai border in Myawaddy Township where its troops are suffering heavy losses. Daily fighting has continued in the Karen State border district for months amid heavy junta reinforcements, artillery and airstrikes. Click here to read…

Youths in Sittwe mark Right to Truth Day with calls for justice, human rights – BNI Online

Commemorated annually on March 24, the UN-recognised day is known in longform as International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims. Click here to read…

Nepal

(Editorial)Ties consolidated- Himalaya

Wang’s visit was, thus, a good opportunity for Nepal to clarify Nepal’s position that any development assistance from a country would be utilised solely for development purposes and that it would never accept any project with political and other conditions. Click here to read…

NC to tie up with ruling allies for civic polls- Himalaya

The central working committee of the ruling Nepali Congress today unanimously decided to forge poll alliance with other coalition partners in local elections scheduled for May 13. Click here to read…

Nepal, Republic of South Sudan establish diplomatic relations- Himalaya

Nepal and the Republic of South Sudan have established diplomatic relations. With this, the number of countries with which Nepal has bilateral diplomatic relations has reached 175. Click here to read…

Mahat-led delegation meets PM Deuba- Himalaya

A delegation from Nuwakot led by Nepali Congress Spokesperson Prakash Sharan Mahat today called on Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and apprised him of several issues facing the district. Click here to read…

Congress comes up with formal decision on poll alliance- Kathmandu Post

Members of rival Nepal Congress faction fear that alliance with communists could harm the party’s voter base. Click here to read…

Security printing will give sense of independence in printing sector: Communications Minister Karki- Himalaya

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Gyanendra Bahadur Karki said the purpose of making the country independent in the printing sector is being gradually fulfilled. Click here to read…

Reaction to Wang Yi’s Nepal visit in Chinese media- Nepali Times

Delayed and toned-down reaction to Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s trip to Nepal seems deliberate. Click here to read…

Pakistan

‘Stars not aligned’ for MQM announcement: Dawn

While the combined opposition tried with all its might to prevail upon the party to announce a decision there and then, MQM-P avoided making a definitive statement at such a late hour and announced that it would make its decision public the next day. Click here to read…

PM forbids PTI MNAs from attending NA session on no-trust voting: The Express Tribune

Prime Minister Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. has barred the ruling PTI lawmakers from attending the National Assembly session on the day of voting on no-trust motion, which is likely to be held in the first week of April. Click here to read…

‘Pakistan can play role for diplomatic solution to war’, PM tells Ukrainian president

Prime Minister Imran Khan has told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that non-partisan countries like Pakistan are in a position to play a helpful role in reinforcing efforts for cessation of hostilities and a diplomatic solution in the war-stricken country. Click here to read…

Umpire’s neutrality leaves smaller parties confused: The News

The ‘umpire’s neutrality’ is behind the change of plans by smaller political parties, as they are reluctant to trust the commitments made by the government and the opposition. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Can we eat money?’: Prices high, supplies low, despair in Lanka- Indian Express

Sri Lanka is facing one of its worst economic crises, battered by the Easter Sunday blasts of April 2019, two Covid waves and now the Russia-Ukraine war. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka avoids recession in Dec quarter, GDP grows 3.7% in 2021: Business Standard

Sri Lanka’s economy grew at a slower-than-expected 1.8% in the 4th quarter of the 2021 financial year, taking its full year growth to 3.7 per cent, data from the govt’s statistics department showed. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

UNDP to Provide $50M to Implement Afghan Economic Programs- Tolo News

A senior official of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) announced a $50 million grant to help implement economic programs for citizens in the north of Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Laghman Governor: ‘No Armed Opposition Groups in Laghman’- Tolo News

Zain al-Abuddin Abed, the governor of Laghman province, said there are no armed opposition groups in the province. Click here to read…

Ban on Intl Media Programs Sparks Local and Global Reactions- Tolo News

The recent decision to prohibit Afghan local media from airing foreign TV channels’ news programs provoked reactions globally. Click here to read…

UN Calls on Islamic Emirate to Honor Promise on Girls’ Education- Tolo News
The members of the UN Security Council have expressed their deep concern regarding the inability of girls beyond grade six in Afghanistan to return to their schools, as they were promised. Click here to read…

Karzai hopes Beijing huddle to be fruitful for Afghanistan- Pajhwok

Former President Hamid Karzai has said that China is Afghanistan’s good neighbor and friend and expressed hope pf future cooperation. Click here to read…

Younis Khan and Umar Gul to coach Afghan players- Pajhwok

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) says that former Pakistan captain Younis Khan and national player Umar Gul has agreed to work as interim coaches with Afghan National Cricket team at UAE training camp. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Bill to curb banking fraud- The Daily Star

The Payment and Settlement Systems Bill 2022 was placed in parliament yesterday with a provision to punish top bank officials for fraudulence committed digitallyClick here to read…

Bangladesh an important partner in diplomacy’- The Daily Star

The European Union considers Bangladesh a very important partner in the regional and global diplomatic landscape, as the country has been able to demonstrate its economic and diplomatic strengths in recent years, EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley said yesterday. Click here to read…

Momen in Colombo to attend 18th ministerial meeting of BIMSTEC- The Daily Star

The eighteenth ministerial meeting of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) opens in the Sri Lankan capital tomorrow (March 29) as the members explore ways to strengthen the forum on all fronts. Click here to read…

US sanctions on Rab an abominable move: PM- The Daily Star

Prime Minister sheikh Hasina today came down heavily on the USA for imposing sanctions on Rapid Action Battalion and some of its officials, terming it an “abominable move”.Click here to read…

Police use teargas, water cannon during clash with hartal supporters at Paltan- The Daily Star

Police used water cannon and fired tear-shell during a clash with hartal supporters at Paltan intersection in Dhaka today. Click here to read…
South Asia Diary: Ukraine war triggers food crisis in Bangladesh- WION

The war in Ukraine has triggered a food crisis in Bangladesh. Traders are hoarding essential commodities to drive up prices. The Bangladesh government has responded by announcing a nationwide ration scheme. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Major Covid-19 travel protocol changes from today- Kuensel

With the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) announcing phase-wise relaxation on the travel restriction in the country on March 26, the system of switching drivers ferrying goods at various points of routes has been lifted from today. Click here to read…

Transportation becomes cheaper with no driver-switching system- Kuensel
With the driver switching modality cancelled from today, businesses expect the price of commodities to drop as transportation becomes cheaper. Click here to read…

(Editorial) Entering the new phase- Kuensel

From today we begin a new phase of relaxation. In Thimphu, movement across mega-zones is allowed and the use of private cars, taxis and city busses resumesClick here to read…

The inspirational story of Bhutan’s first Oscar nod: ‘Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom’- Knkx

The film Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom, nominated for an Oscar in the Best International Feature category, traces the year-long transformative journey of a young Bhutanese teacher, Ugyen Dorji (played by actor Sherab Dorji). Click here to read…

Maldives

An Ex-President, ‘India Out’ & China: Why is Jaishankar’s Maldives Trip Vital?: The Quint

Abdulla Yameen, a former president currently leading an anti-India campaign, was recently freed from house arrest. Click here to read…

S Jaishankar, Who is in the Maldives to Discuss Bilateral Ties, Has Praised the Maldives for Its Efforts to Combat Climate Change.: Industry Global News24

S Jaishankar, who is in the Maldives to discuss bilateral ties, praised the Maldives’ climate change initiatives and stated that India is collaborating on one of the country’s largest climate adaptation projects and is eager to give its expertise in this field. Click here to read…

Myanmar

US issues sanctions on alleged arms dealers for Myanmar military – The Financial Express

The United States imposed new sanctions on Friday targeting alleged arms dealers and companies it said were involved in procuring weapons for Myanmar’s junta, the US Treasury Department said. Click here to read…

Myanmar junta chief vows no talks with opposition “terrorists” – KFGO

Myanmar’s junta chief on Sunday said the military would not negotiate with “terrorist” opposition forces, vowing to annihilate them during a speech on Armed Forces Day, as opponents of last year’s coup vowed they would fight on. Click here to read…

UN expert slams govt silence on death threats against activist – Free Malaysia Today

A United Nations human rights official has questioned the government’s seriousness in handling the harassment and death threats faced by a Rohingya activist in MalaysiaClick here to read…

UN agencies to raise $800m for Rohingyas in Bangladesh camps – NewAgeBD

International communities are set to join a conference on Tuesday for making new commitments on providing funds to maintain the expenses in Rohingya camps and adjacent areas in Bangladesh in 2022. Click here to read…

Nepal

Nepal to receive 11.4 billion rupees in Chinese aid- Himalaya

The government of the people’s republic of China will provide more than Rs 11.40 billion in grant assistance to the Government of Nepal under financial and technical assistance. Click here to read…

PM embarks on India visit on Friday- Himalaya

28Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba is leaving for an official visit to India on April 1 at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Click here to read…

Deals on energy, connectivity on the cards during Deuba’s India visit- Kathmandu Post

Deuba is visiting Delhi on April 1-3 in his first official foreign outing since assuming office. Click here to read…

Loans on commercial terms could greatly increase Nepal’s debt burden- Kathmandu Post

Focus should be on grants, and if credit is a must, interest should be nominal, experts say. Click here to read…

EC allows fringe parties to contest polls with respective election symbols- Republica

The Election Commission (EC) of Nepal has decided to provide separate election symbols to all the political parties registered for the purpose of contesting local level pollsClick here to read…

Pakistan

JUI-F supporters vow to stay in Islamabad till PM’s removal- Dawn

While a number of political developments were observed at the national level on Monday, workers of the opposition parties believed that the stage had been set and their leaders needed to give a last push to topple the government.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1682369/jui-f-supporters-vow-to-stay-in-islamabad-till-pms-removal” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Pakistan dealt well with Covid: UN- Dawn

A UN report released on Monday places Pakistan among the countries that have done fairly well in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1682326/pakistan-dealt-well-with-covid-un

Capital police facing shortage of over 1,700 personnel, NA told- Dawn

The capital police are short of manpower compared to its sanctioned strength, the National Assembly has been informed. Click here to read…

SC irked by Imran’s remarks about Nawaz wooing judiciary- Dawn

Taking exception to the statements made by Prime Minister Imran Khan about the judiciary at a public meeting a couple of days ago, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel on Monday wondered if the premier could restrain himself from “irresponsible” utterancesClick here to read…

Qureshi to leave for China today- Dawn

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will leave for China on Tuesday (today) where he is expected to meet foreign ministers of other countries, including Russia, Iran and Central Asian states. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

To help Sri Lanka tackle an economic crisis, India pledges to continue cooperation, aid: Hindustan Times

Jaishankar also held talks with Sri Lanka’s finance minister Basil Rajapaksa, who has been coordinating with the Indian side on measures to cope with the economic crisis. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa thanks India for ‘invaluable assistance’: The Hindu

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked visiting External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for India’s “invaluable assistance” to Sri Lanka, which is grappling with one of its worst economic crises. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

US Hopes for Reversal by Islamic Emirate on Girls’ Education: Tolo News

The US Special Representative for Afghanistan said on Saturday he is hopeful that there will be a reversal of the Islamic Emirate’s u-turn on girls’ education in the coming days.“I am hopeful that we will see a reversal of this decision in the coming days” Thomas West, US special representative for Afghanistan, said at the Doha Forum. Click here to read…

Mullah Baradar Calls for Afghan Self-Sufficiency: Tolo News

First Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said that the aid provided by international donors will alleviate urgent needs for a short period of time, but said that the ministries must work toward self-sufficiencyClick here to read…

Qatar, Indonesia sign letter for providing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

Qatar has announced that they have signed a letter of content with Indonesia based on which both the countries will cooperate in providing humanitarian and development assistance to the people of Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Impoverished Afghan families; private schools, universities lose students: The Khaama Press

Owners of private schools and universities in the Afghan capital Kabul complain that they have lost 60% of their students as the new educational year has just begun across Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

It’s delightful to see achievements of Bangladesh- The Daily Star

Chinese President Xi Jinping has said he is willing to work with Bangladesh to push the China-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership of Cooperation to new heights. Click here to read…

Voter list update begins on May 20- The Daily Star

The Election Commission (EC) will start updating the voter list from May 20 and this would be the last registration of prospective voters before the 12th parliamentary election. Click here to read…

Protesting price hike of daily essentials: LDA hartal in progress- The Daily Star

Half-day hartal, announced by Left Democratic Alliance (LDA) in protest of the price hike of daily essentials, has begun across the country. Click here to read…

Bridge lies with no approach roads- The Daily Star

People of several villages under two unions in Dhanbari upazila have been suffering immensely for long as the bridge over the Bangshi river does not have approach roads on either sideClick here to read…

A big leap in tech industry- The Daily Star

Bangabandhu Hi-Tech City likely to get $1.3b investment by 2025Click here to read…

Mass media employees bill to be placed at JS today- The Daily Star

Information Minister Hasan Mahmud will place the Mass Media Employees (services and conditions) Bill-2022 at JS today. Click here to read…

Bangladeshi exporters worry as global brands cancel Russian orders over Ukraine invasion- Benar News

Bangladeshi businesspeople are jittery about the future of bilateral trade with Russia, saying that international sanctions over Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine are disrupting their exports of key products such as ready-made garments. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Taiwan-donated oxygen concentrators, face masks, arrived in Bhutan- Focus Taiwan

A total of 2,000 Taiwan-donated N95 respirators and 50 oxygen concentrators have arrived in Bhutan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Sunday, amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 infections in the Himalayan kingdom. Click here to read…

Expansionary fiscal policy pushes debt-to-GDP ratio to 138.8 percent- Kuensel

The country’s outstanding external debt increased to a record high of 138.8 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at the end of the fiscal year 2020-21 from the previous high of 121 percent. Click here to read…

Businesses to seek more relief measures- Kuensel

Most of the businesses would not be able to repay loans or operate if the relief or monetary measures are discontinued after June 2022, according to Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) President Tandy Wangchuk. Click here to read…

Chilies from southern districts to hit market by April end- Bhutan Times

Despite initial delay in plantation due to pest infection and cold waves, chilly growers in the south are hopeful that their chilies will hit the domestic market by April endClick here to read…

Govt. to recruit doctors from Myanmar- Bhutan Times

With critical shortage of health specialists and their services becoming even dearer in the country, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has initiated the process to recruit foreign doctors from Myanmar on a contract basis which will extend for two years. Click here to read…

Nepal

Chinese Minister Wang completes three-day visit, returns home- Himalayan

China’s State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi returned home today after completing his three-day visit to Nepal. Click here to read…

Wang urged to get China border opened- Himalayan

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli and CPN-Maoist Centre Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal separately today. Click here to read…

Nepal to receive 11.4 billion rupees in Chinese aid- Himalayan

The government of the people’s republic of China will provide more than Rs 11.40 billion in grant assistance to the Government of Nepal under financial and technical assistance. Click here to read…

Tiktok: A tool to win elections- Kathmandu Post

TikTok has been misused by propagandists to spread the political narrative in Southeast Asia. Click here to read…

Main opposition harbours hope to defend pole position, through poll

alliances- Kathmandu Post

UML leaders put on bold faces but are looking deep for opportunities to fight upcoming local elections in collaboration with friends and foes. Click here to read…

(Opinion) Fixing the broken parts in Nepal-China ties: kanak Mani Dixit- Nepal Times

Foreign Minister Wang Yi must use his Kathmandu visit to clear the growing distrust between Beijing and Kathmandu, and seek to better understand Nepal, including its age-old links to Tibet. Click here to read…

Nepal Army Day marked in Kathmandu- Republica

Nepal Army organized a special ceremony to observe the Nepal Army Day and Maha Shivaratri festival at Tundikhel, Kathmandu on Tuesday. Click here to read…

China opposes attempt to engage Nepal in geopolitical games: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi- Nepal Live Today

“China believes that all countries are equal regardless of size, and respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries.” Click here to read…

Maldives

India-Maldives launch initiatives to expand security ties to protect S Indian Ocean: Economic Times

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is on a two-day trip to the Maldives, said on Sunday that “India and Maldives share a deep and abiding friendship. Click here to read…

Explained: What’s behind the new anti-India campaign in the Maldives?: Indian Express

The theme of the rally was “India Out”, a slogan coined two years ago by protesters who claimed that the MDP government led by President Ibrahim Solih had “sold out” the Maldives to India. Click here to read…

Myanmar

China And Pakistan Stepping Up Engagement with Myanmar, And That’s Bad News for India – Swarajyamarg

With global attention focused on the crisis in eastern Europe, China has surreptitiously stepped up its engagement with Myanmar’s junta and has also got Pakistan involved as its proxy to supply arms and munitions to the southeast Asian nation. Click here to read…

Myanmar’s crimes against the Rohingya warrant UN intervention – The Guardian

Now that the US has finally accepted that Myanmar’s ethnic cleansing and mass murder of Rohingya Muslims amounts to genocide (Rohingya refugees welcome US decision to call Myanmar atrocities a genocide, 22 March), the UN should enact its responsibility to prevent and respond to this most serious violation of international human rights and humanitarian law. Click here to read…

Myanmar army denies Rohingya genocide, says some individuals may have committed crimes – US News

Myanmar’s military did not commit genocide against minority Rohingya Muslims during 2017 operations in Rakhine state, but crimes may have been committed by personnel on an individual level, an army spokesman said on Thursday. Click here to read…

Myanmar military deliberately killed civilians after coup: Report – Aljazeera

Myanmar’s military and police deliberately killed civilians opposed to its rule in the six months following the coup in February 2021, in a policy that amounts to crimes against humanity, according to new research published on Thursday. Click here to read…

Armed Forces Day Spotlights Atrocities – Human Rights Watch

Myanmar’s Armed Forces Day on March 27, 2022, is an opportunity for foreign governments to take stronger action against the military’s widespread abuses, Human Rights Watch said today. Click here to read…

Massive Military Regime Convoy Arrives in Western Myanmar – The Irrawaddy

A Myanmar military convoy consisting of 80 vehicles including artillery and armored vehicles has arrived in Mindat in southern Chin State, according to the Chinland Defense Force (CDF), a local resistance group fighting the regime. Click here to read…

Drug use on rise in Rakhine under the current government – Narinjara

Rakhine State has been witnessing the increase of illegal drug uses, including WY stimulants, under the current administration of military backed government, allege locals. Ko Aung Chae, a resident of Buthidaung locality, claimed that the use of drugs among teenagers was on rise in their township, which is located in northern Rakhine. Click here to read…

Japan’s ‘Special Relationship’ With Myanmar Has Abetted Decades of Military Rule – The Irrawaddy

That “special relationship”—when it comes to aid, investment and involvement in the so-called peace process—has so far resulted in little more than making sure that the Myanmar military remains firmly entrenched in power. Click here to read…

Pakistan

PM Imran says ‘foreign-funded conspiracy’ out to topple his govt, claims to have evidence in writing: Dawn

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday claimed that the opposition’s no-trust move is part of an alleged “foreign-funded conspiracy” hatched against his government over his refusal to have Pakistan’s foreign policy be influenced from abroad. Click here to read…

NA to deliberate on no-trust move today: The Express Tribune

The much-anticipated session of the National Assembly to deliberate on the no-confidence motion filed against Prime Minister Imran Khan by the opposition parties will be held today (Monday). Click here to read…

Gas crisis to hit country in summer too: The News

After the Singapore based LNG trading company GUNVOR backed out of delivery of four LNG cargoes that were to be delivered in the remaining four months, in April, May and two in June of its five-year contract ending in July 2022, and the decision of Pakistan LNG Limited not to procure spot LNG cargo for April at the price of $34.677 per MMBTU offered by Vitol Bahrain in the bids opened on Friday, it seems the country would now experience a gas crisis even in the summer season. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

India asks Sri Lanka to release fishermen, fishing boats from custody: Economic Times

India expressed its readiness to work together with Sri Lanka for joint research to enhance the productivity of the Palk Bay fisheries. Click here to read…

S Jaishankar Lands in Sri Lanka For Bilateral Talks, BIMSTEC Summit: NDTV

This is his first visit to the island nation since India extended an economic relief package to bail Sri Lanka out of the current economic crisis. Click here to read…