Latest News
UN-led Doha meetings call for greater support for Afghan economy and counternarcotics efforts
A series of United Nations-facilitated working group meetings on Afghanistan concluded in Doha last week, with renewed calls for enhanced international engagement and practical support for the Afghan people, particularly in the areas of private sector development and counternarcotics.
Organized by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the meetings on June 30 and July 1 brought together representatives from 26 UN Member States and international organizations, delegates from the Islamic Emirate, and a panel of subject-matter experts.
The gatherings focused on two key areas: boosting Afghanistan’s struggling private sector and tackling the complex challenges posed by drug production, trafficking, and treatment.
“Supporting the private sector and counternarcotics efforts is a strategic, economic, and humanitarian imperative,” said Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNAMA.
She added that the meetings also provided a platform to engage IEA on their international obligations and emphasize the essential role of women and girls in the country’s economic recovery and broader society.
The counternarcotics working group explored a joint action plan aimed at creating alternative livelihoods for poppy farmers, alongside strategies for drug prevention and treatment programs. Participants also addressed transnational concerns such as drug trafficking, cross-border coordination, and the need for stronger law enforcement mechanisms.
The private sector working group, developed through prior consultations with Afghan business leaders, emphasized the importance of improving access to finance, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and promoting women-led enterprises.
Discussions centered on job creation, skills development, and practical solutions to strengthen Afghanistan’s economic resilience.
International Sports
IPL 2026: RR slip to fifth as Shane Bond calls for bowling changes
Rajasthan Royals (RR) bowling coach Shane Bond says his side’s bowlers must start “doing something different” after another disappointing defeat in IPL 2026 left the team slipping down the points table.
RR suffered a heavy loss to Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday after conceding more than 200 runs for the fourth straight match. The defeat pushed them down to fifth place with only three league games remaining.
The problems started early when fast bowler Jofra Archer struggled badly in the opening over, needing 11 balls to complete it after bowling a no-ball and several wides. The over cost RR 18 runs and set the tone for another difficult evening.
Former New Zealand pacer Mitchell McClenaghan said Archer appeared rusty after the team’s eight-day break and suggested Jaipur’s pitches are not helping RR’s pace attack.
Bond admitted RR’s bowling has not adapted well enough to the aggressive batting seen throughout this year’s IPL.
“You’ve got to be doing something different,” Bond said after the match. “Batsmen are developing new shots and putting bowlers under pressure, so bowlers also need to develop new skills and new plans.”
He added that bowlers must improve both their decision-making and execution, while using analysts more effectively to study opposition batting patterns.
Despite their recent slump, RR remain in contention for the playoffs, although their form has become a growing concern after a strong start to the season.
Meanwhile, IPL action continues on Sunday with Chennai Super Kings taking on Lucknow Super Giants in the afternoon match, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Mumbai Indians in a high-profile evening clash.
Chennai Super Kings will look to revive their inconsistent campaign against a Lucknow side still fighting for a playoff place, while Bengaluru and Mumbai meet in what could prove crucial in the race for the top four.
Both matches will be broadcast live across Afghanistan on Ariana Television Network.
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