Book Review: Another war that could ruin a president

The grim mountains and deserts of Afghanistan are a boneyard of invading armies. The British rulers of colonial India sent an Anglo-Indian army there in 1839 to establish Afghanistan as a buffer state against the advances of imperial Russia in Central Asia. -- Book Review: Another war that could ruin a president

آسپرین‌های اوباما برای سرطان پاکستان

With bill at Obama's desk, Congress aims to renew oversight of CIA operations - washingtonpost

Congress has moved to reassert its role as a check on the nation's most sensitive spy programs after having been marginalized for years in the management of covert intelligence operations.
Congress casts eyes toward CIA

Pakistan halts NATO's Afghan-bound supply trucks

Editorial, Bob Woodward's book portrays a great divide over Afghanistan‎

SUPPORTERS OF President Obama's strategy in Afghanistan can only be disheartened by the portrait of his administration provided in Bob Woodward's new book, "Obama's Wars." -- Bob Woodward's book portrays a great divide over Afghanistan‎

Pakistan halts NATO's Afghan-bound supply trucks

Outsourcing the Dirty War in Afghanistan - huffingtonpost

A big revelation from Bob Woodward's new book Obama's Wars is that the CIA maintains a 3000-strong Afghan paramilitary force that conducts cross-border operations into Pakistan. -- Outsourcing the Dirty War in Afghanistan

Henry Kissinger: Vietnam Failures 'We Did To Ourselves'

Photos From Afghanistan: Natural Beauty, Not War

Rasmussen's goal, in short, is to change that view. To do so, he spent some time in the remote areas of northeastern Afghanistan this year. -- Photos From Afghanistan: Natural Beauty, Not War
Afghan Villager: "We Are In The Middle!"
Hilary Clinton Wants Pakistan To Start Paying Its Fair Share

Treasury Seeks To Cast A Wider Net For Terrorists

"Now you throw on top of it millions and millions of transfers that have no connection to any criminal activity at the start, and there is a real good question as to whether or not data will be held properly, will be protected and will be useful," Zarate said. "You have to ask whether you are adding more hay to the haystack as officials try to find needles in that haystack." -- Listen to the Story
Treasury Seeks To Cast A Wider Net For Terrorists
Report Finds Significant Exam Cheating By FBI Agents - AP

Short-sighted American humanism absolutely unwanted in Afghanistan - Pravda

"America is a young nation. They are only 200 years - the Russian artillery is older - and they came to wage war in the country, whose history remembers Alexander III of Macedon, Genghis Khan and Timur. This land has its own pristine magic of thousands of years. When we were there, I often asked myself: how can one wage war amidst so much beauty? A soldier could not take so much beauty and would lose his sense of self-control. -- Short-sighted American humanism absolutely unwanted in Afghanistan‎

Opinion: Afghanistan war: Is the US in it to win it?

America's engagement in Afghanistan remains vital. Now is the time to renew our resolve and pursue our broad-based strategy, not look for an exit. - Afghanistan war: Is the US in it to win it? - CSM

'Kill squad' fallout: How many US troops in Afghanistan use hashish?

Amb. Rice’s Remarks at Security Council Debate on Afghanistan

Mr. President, our goal in Afghanistan remains unchanged: to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al-Qaeda and prevent its return. More international forces are focused on reversing the Taliban's momentum. We’re providing security for the Afghan people; we’re working in partnership with the Afghan security forces so that Afghans themselves can assume more and more responsibility for their country’s security. Read more: Amb. Rice’s Remarks at Security Council Debate on Afghanistan

Afghanistan issues call at UN for end to State financing of terrorist groups

Analysts: Europe plot reveals al Qaeda adapting

German intelligence officials say much of the information about the plot has come from a German citizen with suspected links to al Qaeda who was detained in Kabul in July and handed over to U.S. forces. -- CNN International
Factbox: Islamist militant attacks in Europe Reuters
Telegraph.co.uk - The Associated Press - Christian Science Monitor

افتتاحیه‌ی فلم «لاله سیاه»؛ فلم دیدن با سینماگران افغان

بعد از چاشت روز سه‌شنبه 23 سپتامبر در سینما آریانا رفتم تا در افتتاحیه فلم «لاله سیاه» (2010) شرکت کنم. این فلم با حضور سینماگران افغان و تعداد زیادی از شهروندان کابل به نمایش عمومی گذاشته شد. قبل از نمایش فلم، جوانشیر حیدری از رییس خدمات شهری شهرداری کابل به خاطر برگزاری آن محفل تشکر کرد؛ ولی کاتلین هایدن، سخنگوی سفارت آمریکا در کابل به نیویورک تایمز گفته است که محفل افتتاحیه‌ی این فلم از سوی سفارت آمریکا حمایت مالی و برگزار شده است. ..... - افتتاحیه‌ی فلم «لاله سیاه»؛ فلم دیدن با سینماگران افغان
Snickers Greet Premiere of Afghan Film - nytimes

Al-Qaeda terror plot targeting Europe uncovered

An al-Qaeda plot to carry out co-ordinated attacks in the UK, France and Germany has been uncovered, Western intelligence sources say. -- Al-Qaeda terrorism plot uncovered - BBC

یک دسیسهء حملات تروریستی در بریتانیا، فرانسه و آلمان کشف شد

مصاحبه با محمود کرزی در مورد ادعای څارنوالان فدرال امریکا

اخیراً څارنوالان فدرال امریکا، اعلان کردند که تحقیقات جنایی در مورد برادر رییس جمهور کرزی آغاز شده است. -- گزارشگر رادیو آزادی در این مورد مصاحبهء را محمود کرزی انجام داده است:..... - مصاحبه با محمود کرزی در مورد ادعای څارنوالان فدرال امریکا
U.S. Prosecutors Probe Karzai Brother - WSJ

With Afghan elections over, time to refocus on peace and development – UN

29 September 2010 – With a series of important political events having taken place this year, it is now time for Afghanistan and its partners to focus on the road ahead in ensuring peace and development for the country, a top United Nations official said today. -- With Afghan elections over, time to refocus on peace and development – UN
Afghanistan issues call at UN for end to State financing of terrorist groups

Afghanistan issues call at UN for end to State financing of terrorist groups

With his country enduring horrific terrorist violence on an almost daily basis, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister underlined the need for both States and non-State actors to cut off their financing for Al-Qaida at the United Nations today.

“As long as certain State and non-State actors provide Al-Qaida and its affiliated individuals and entities with sanctuary, arms and financing, they will remain formidable and murderous adversaries.” -- Afghanistan issues call at UN for end to State financing of terrorist groups

Obama: "We need to make clear to people that the cancer is in Pakistan" - washingtonpost

The reason to create a secure, self-governing Afghanistan, President Obama told his aides last year, was "so the cancer doesn't spread there." -- 'We need to make clear ... the cancer is in Pakistan'

Karzai appeals for peace after official's murder

رئیس دفتر دکتر نجیب الله در برنامه به عبارت دیگر

اساسا قتل دکتر نجیب الله کار طالبان نبود کار سازمان استخباراتی پاکستان بود، طالبان یک پوشش برای این کار بودند. طالبان در اولین ساعاتی که وارد کابل شدند، دکتر نجیب الله را کشتند درحالی که آنها کابل را دقیقا بلد نبودند

تشخیص نجیب الله این بود که برای برقراری صلح از آنجایی که جامعه افغانستان یک جامعه سنتی است باید شاه سابق بازگردانیده شود بیاید به افغانستان و در افغانستان یک حکومت ائتلافی تشکیل شود. و شاه سابق در راس این حکومت قرار بگیرد. اما احزاب اسلامی بنیاد گرا که حزب به رهبری سیاف و برهان الدین ربانی و گلبدین حکمتیار در راس آن بودند، طرح دکتر نجیب الله راقبول نکردند. ...... - رئیس دفتر دکتر نجیب الله در برنامه به عبارت دیگر
پاکستان مسوول قتل داکتر نجیب بود - ادامه خبر

ژنرال حمید گل: اوباما با طالبان مذاکره کند

Afghanistan president questions NATO mission in teary speech - latimes

President Hamid Karzai broke into tears Tuesday while delivering a speech in which he questioned the efficacy of the NATO military mission in Afghanistan and condemning an epidemic of violence gripping his country.

President Karzai became emotional during an address at an event in Kabul focused on improving literacy. Dwelling on Afghanistan's more than 30 years of warfare, he recalled the Soviet era, alluded to meddling by Afghanistan's neighbors and then added, "NATO is here, fighting against terrorism for 10 years, fighting with no result." -- Afghanistan president questions NATO mission in teary speech

کرزی: افغانستان در ۱۳۰ سال گذشته پیشرفتی نداشته است

حامد کرزی بی سوادی شماری زیادی از مردم، و جنگ های متعدد در کشورش را از عوامل اصلی عقب ماندگی افغانستان دانست و گفت هنوز مشخص نیست که جنگ جاری در کشور او، کی به پایان خواهد رسید
آقای کرزی گفت هر گلوله ای که در حال حاضر از سوی سربازان خارجی در داخل افغانستان شلیک می شود، به سود این کشور نیست و به نفع "دشمنان" افغانستان است
او گفت: "فرزندان ما نمی توانند به مکتب(مدرسه) بروند، از ترس انفجار بمب و حملات انتحاری و یا بمباران. معلم ما نمی تواند به مکتب برود، از ترس جنگ و تهدید به قتل و شهادت."......- کرزی: افغانستان در ۱۳۰ سال گذشته پیشرفتی نداشته است
روز جهانی سواد آموزی؛ پیشینه سواد آموزی در افغانستان

اعضای شورای عالی صلح افغانستان معرفی شدند
ژنرال حمیدگل: اوباما باید با طالبان مذاکره کند

U.S. Airstrikes Target Afghan Insurgents' Safe Havens - NPR

U.S. government officials often describe the war in Afghanistan as a big game of Whack-a-Mole. - Listen to the Story

U.S. Strikes Target Afghan Insurgents' Safe Havens
Afghan Government Sets Up 70-Member Peace Council

حاضرید برای پیشرفت افغانستان به کشور بازگردید؟

رئیس جمهور ادامه داد: افغانستان 130 سال پیش با بسیاری از کشورهای پیشرفته کنونی هم ردیف بود اما اکنون عقب مانده تر از تمامی کشورهاست و این مساله ای است که باید برای آن اشک ریخت.اکنون بسیاری از مردم افغان برای تحصیل، برای دور ماندن از محیط بی سوادی و بی فرهنگی به کشورهای غربی مهاجرت می نمایند تا شاید فرزندانشان بتوانند در آنجا درس بخوانند و برای آینده شان مفید واقع شوند...... - حاضرید برای پیشرفت افغانستان به کشور بازگردید؟
اعلام 68 تن از اعضای شورای عالی صلح

Hamid Karzai breaks down in tears - telegraph

Afghan Leader Names Council for Talks With Taliban - nytimes

While a handful of influential people from the former Taliban government have been included, the council is heavily weighted with many of the same factional leaders who have dominated the wars and politics of the past 30 years, and who have been fighting the Taliban for half that time. - Afghan Leader Names Council for Talks With Taliban
AFP -- Taliban Reject Karzai's New Peace Council Wall Street Journal

Afghanistan's President Karzai names Taliban outreach group - CSM

On Tuesday, Mr. Karzai’s office made public the list of people who would compose the High Peace Council designed to engage combatants who oppose his government. The creation of the council was endorsed by tribal leaders at the Peace Jirga in June. -- Afghanistan's President Karzai names Taliban outreach group
An Afghan governor dies and Hamid Karzai cries. Is that a problem?

Karzai, family under pressure from Taliban attacks, U.S. probes - CNN

"I have pain in my heart," Karzai said, his voice breaking and his eyes red with tears. -- "I'm afraid that my son, my own son will become a refugee one day. Please, I don't want my son and your son to be a foreign citizen." - CNN International
The Guardian - The Associated Press - Aljazeera.net

- د سولې د عالي شورا غړي اعلان شول

Hamid Karzai in tearful plea for peace with Taliban The Guardian

Afghan president who spent years in exile weeps for Mirwais, the son he fears will be 'a foreigner' -- Hamid Karzai in tearful plea for peace with Taliban The Guardian

A tearful Karzai appeals for peace after provincial official's slaying
Afghan government sets up 70-member peace council - AP
CNN International - Aljazeera.net - AFP

Afghan President Karzai appeals for peace after provincial official's murder

During his speech marking World Literacy Day, an emotional Karzai accused NATO members and other countries of using Afghanistan as a battleground to settle scores. -- "It has been about 10 years," the president said, referring to the U.S.-led war. "The result remains unclear." -- Afghan President Karzai appeals for peace after provincial official's murder

A tearful Karzai appeals for peace after provincial official's slaying
Afghan government sets up 70-member peace council - AP

Afghan minister urges new war on terror networks

UNITED NATIONS -- Afghanistan's foreign minister warned the U.S., NATO and other allies that if they want to win the war on terrorism they must look beyond Afghan villages and adopt a strategy that will decisively dismantle terror organizations and networks.

"Afghans continue to suffer from horrific acts of terrorist violence on a daily basis," Rassoul said. -- Afghan minister urges new war on terror networks - Ap

Biden warned Obama during Afghan war review not to get 'locked into Vietnam' - washingtonpost

As Biden had for months, he was keeping the pressure on, urging Obama to avoid a dramatic escalation of the war. -- It would not be that bad if Hamid Karzai's government in Afghanistan fell, Biden said. -- Biden warned Obama not to become 'locked in'
Woodward excerpts: Military thwarted president seeking choice in Afghanistan
Transcript: President Obama and Bob Woodward
Full Coverage

Brother of Afghan Leader Is Subject of Wiretapping - nytimes

WASHINGTON — The National Security Agency has been conducting electronic surveillance of a brother of the Afghan president, Hamid Karzai, as part of a corruption investigation into his business dealings in Afghanistan, according to United States officials.

Gerald Posner, a lawyer for Mahmoud Karzai, said Monday that Mr. Karzai had not been contacted or interviewed by the F.B.I. or the Justice Department, and had not been told that he was the subject of an investigation. -- Brother of Afghan Leader Is Subject of Wiretapping

Administration seeks ways to monitor Internet communications

The Obama administration is planning to seek legislation that would require social networking companies and voice-over-Internet service providers to adapt their technology so law enforcement agents can monitor users' communications during criminal and terrorism investigations. -- Administration seeks ways to monitor Internet communications

Computerworld - The Associated Press
Privacy advocates criticize government's online eavesdropping proposal

Gold is the final refuge against universal currency debasement

“It is a serious question. We are no longer talking about a single country having a big depression but the entire world.” -- Gold is a final refuge against currency debasement

Gold could rally to $1,400

Confession Video: US Soldier Describes Thrill Kill of Innocent Afghans - abcnews

Corporal, 22, Tells How His 'Crazy' Sergeant Allegedly Murdered For Kicks, Collected Body Parts - ABC News
Hearing begins in alleged plot to murder Afghans Associated Press
Hearing for JBLM soldier accused of Afghan murders Seattle Times
New York Times - TIME (blog)

Petraeus Says Taliban Have Reached Out to Karzai

PARWAN, Afghanistan — The top American commander in Afghanistan said Monday that high-level Taliban leaders had reached out to senior Afghan government officials in the context of starting reconciliation discussions that could pave the way to end the fighting in Afghanistan. -Petraeus Says Taliban Have Reached Out to Karzai

FBI seeks right to tap texts, emails and websites

Karzai's brother will amend U.S. tax returns - washingtonpost

KABUL, Afghanistan -- The eldest brother of Afghan President Hamid Karzai said he is not aware of a reported criminal investigation into his activities, an inquiry he claims is more about political differences with the U.S. than wrongdoing on his part. -- Karzai's brother will amend U.S. tax returns

U.S. Prosecutors Probe Karzai Brother - WSJ

Money transfers could face new scrutiny - washngtonpost

The Obama administration wants to require U.S. banks to report all electronic money transfers into and out of the country, a dramatic expansion in efforts to counter terrorist financing and money laundering. -- Money transfers could face new scrutiny
America's guardians: Top security officials work around the clock to protect the nation

تروریزم از نام اسلام سوء استفاده کرده است...

داکتر زلمی رسول گفت که سازمان کنفرانس اسلامی، 41 سال قبل به خاطر حفاظت از منافع جهان اسلام و نقش کشورهای اسلامی در توسعه صلح و امنیت بین‌المللی ایجاد شد. امروز، سازمان کنفرانس اسلامی مسوولیت‌های بیشتری در برابر چالش‌های قرن 21، مانند تروریزم، افراط‌گرایی، منازعات مسلحانه، تبعیض و تضاد میان تمدن‌ها دارد

وی در بخش دیگری از سخنانش گفت که تروریزم و افراط گرایی از نام مقدس اسلام برای توجیه عملکردهای خود درمنطقه سوء استفاده کرده ، منطقه ما را چهره منفی درجهان داده و سبب می شود که تفکر نامناسب از اسلام و تروریزم شکل بگیرد ، در حالی که اسلام دینی است که همواره صلح ، تساهل و همزیستی را تجویز و تبلیغ می کند......- تروریزم از نام اسلام سوء استفاده کرده است...
قرارداد استراتژیک میان افغانستان و آمریکا

Book review: 'Obama's Wars' - Los Angeles Times

President Obama's agonized march to a decision on how to move forward in what he has called "a war of necessity" in Afghanistan has been widely reported and analyzed. ..... More -- 'Obama's War' review: Tales from the inside

U.S., Afghan forces 'destroying Taliban fighting positions'
Afghan women break barriers in a male bastion: the army

Americans remain wary of Islam - CSMonitor

For now, at least, the “ground zero mosque” in New York and threats to burn copies of the Quran are no longer front-page news. But Americans remain wary of Islam as the FBI and other law enforcement agencies investigate a growing list of attacks on mosques and threats to Muslims.

The picture on public attitudes is mixed, according to a recent report by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, which finds that opinions about Islam are less favorable now than they were five years ago. -- Americans remain wary of Islam

U.S. Probes Karzai's Kin - wall street journal

Prosecutors Focus on Mahmood Karzai, Posing Diplomatic Risks for Washington -- U.S. Prosecutors Probe Karzai Brother

Rufus Phillips: Curb Corruption or Lose the War in Afghanistan ...
U.S. Seeks Afghan Trainers

Analysis: Are lawmakers or lawbreakers winners of Afghan poll?‎

"It's no question a few democrats ran, men and women, but I am sure most of them will not win. A few of them, maybe they will win to make a showcase of democracy," former parliamentarian Malalai Joya said. -- Analysis: Are lawmakers or lawbreakers winners of Afghan poll?‎

Kathleen Wells, J.D.: Prince Abdul Ali Seraj: U.S. Weakening of ...

Pakistan minister resigns after accusing army of killings - Guardian

Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi accused the army of killing several high-profile Pakistani figures, including ethnic Baluch tribal leader Nawab Akbar Bugti and former prime minister Benazir Bhutto. --- Pakistan minister resigns after accusing army of killings

US soldier accused of killing Afghan civilians appears at military tribunal
Pakistani minister resigns after criticizing army‎ - AP

Afghanistan's elections: progress and stagnation - Nushin Arbabzadah

The same class that is the greatest financial beneficiary of the US mission is also the one undermining democracy

But how does voting work in a place where most people are acutely politically aware but can't even read their candidates' names? -- Nushin Arbabzadah: Afghanistan's elections – progress and stagnation

Call for 'Gaza style' inquiry on Afghan deaths - Guardian

Former UN official demands investigation into coalition link to deaths revealed by WikiLeaks

A United Nations investigation into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan should be launched to identify and prosecute individuals responsible, says a former top-ranking UN official on extrajudicial killings. -- Call for UN war crimes inquiry into Afghanistan
جنایتکاران جنگی باید به دادگاه کشانیده شوند

Pakistan minister quits after accusing army of killings - BBC

"We provided the army with uniforms and boots not so that they kill their own fellow countrymen, kill Nawab Sahib [Bugti] and Benazir Bhutto," he told a news conference in the city of Quetta. -- BBC News - Pakistan minister quits after accusing army of killings

افغانستان کي دبېنواپرنشراتوبندیزولګید...

په ټول افغانستان کي دبېنوا پښتو انټرنیټ پاڼي پر نشراتو بندیز لګیدلی دی او اوس دغه پاڼه په خپل نامه یعني بېنواټکي کام په نوم نه خلاصیزي . خو په نورو نومونو ئې لا نشرات همغسي عادي پاته دي
دغه پاڼه دولسمشر کرزي د لومړي مرستیال په امر داطلاعاتو کلتور دوزیر لخوا بنده سوې ده . چي د وزیر په خبره د څارنوالۍ پریکړه دځان په لاس کي لري . په داسي حال کي چي څارنوالۍ نه حاضریږي خپله یوطرفه پریکړه بېنوا ته په واک کي ورکړي ...... - افغانستان کي دبېنواپرنشراتوبندیزولګید...
وال ستریټ جورنال : د افغان رسنیو د خپلواڮ..
Afghan Media Freedoms Erode - wall street journal

Afghan Media Freedoms Erode - WSJ

In the past week, the government ordered the shutdown of Benawa.com, a popular Pashtu-language news website, following requests by the first vice president, Marshal Mohammad Qasim Fahim. It is also moving to outlaw another widely followed muckraking journalism site, Tolafghan.com. -- Afghan Media Freedoms Erode

US strategists seek Afghan fixes outside the box

KABUL, Afghanistan -- On a NATO base in Kabul, a five-member team is rethinking the war in Afghanistan and questioning some of the basic assumptions behind the effort to clean up corruption and gain the upper hand over the Taliban. -- US strategists seek Afghan fixes outside the box

US wants more aid recognition in Pakistan
Pakistan is not the enemy -- ("Staying the course in Afghanistan")

Afghan Equality and Law, but With Strings Attached - nytimes

Hundreds of children would gather on the iconic Nader Khan Hill in the capital, Kabul, on a gorgeous Friday in September and fly kites emblazoned with slogans lauding the rule of law and equality for women. - Afghan Equality and Law, but With Strings Attached
3 Afghan Journalists, 2 of Whom Were Held by NATO Forces, Are Released

Ban praises UN partnership with Islamic States to overcome global challenges

24 September 2010 – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today lauded the role of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) as a partner of the United Nations in seeking solutions to a wide range of global problems, including conflict in the Middle East, instability in Iraq and civil strive in Afghanistan. -- Ban praises UN partnership with Islamic States to overcome global challenges
Ban calls for countries to turn rhetoric on women and conflict into reality

Obama UN Speech (TEXT, VIDEO) - huffingtonpost

Responsibility and leadership in the 21st century demand more. In an era when our destiny is shared, power is no longer a zero sum game. No one nation can or should try to dominate another nation. No world order that elevates one nation or group of people over another will succeed. ....... More -- Obama UN Speech (TEXT, VIDEO)

Page on the UN General Assembly
Full text: Obama's BBC interview

گفت و گوی اوباما با تلویزیون فارسی بی‌بی‌سی

باراک اوباما، رئیس جمهوری آمریکا در گفت و گوی اختصاصی با تلویزیون بی بی سی فارسی سخنان همتای ایرانی خود در مورد حملات ۱۱ سپتامبر را به شدت محکوم کرد

آقای احمدی نژاد روز پنجشنبه در سخنرانی خود در مجمع عمومی سازمان ملل متحد، از احتمال دست داشتن بخش هایی از دولت آمریکا در حادثه ۱۱ سپتامبر سخن گفته بود
او گفته بود که سه نظریه درباره چگونگی وقوع این حملات وجود دارد که بر اساس یکی از آنها، حملات "توسط بخش هایی از دولت آمریکا و برای ایجاد تغییر در روند نزول اقتصاد آمریکا و سیطره او بر خاورمیانه و همچنین نجات رژیم صهیونیستی" انجام شده است و "اکثریت مردم آمریکا و ملت ها و سیاستمداران بر این باورند."...... - گفت و گوی اوباما با تلویزیون فارسی بی‌بی‌سی
Full text: Obama's BBC interview
اظهارات جنجالی احمدی نژاد درباره حملات ۱۱ سپتامبر

Pakistan will fight Aafia Siddiqui's sentencing in US - CSM

Pakistan’s prime minister said Friday he will fight for the release of Aafia Siddiqui, the Pakistani scientist sentenced Thursday in New York to 86 years in prison for trying to shoot American soldiers in Afghanistan. -- Pakistan will fight Aafia Siddiqui's sentencing in US
Pakistan angry over terror conviction in US

Mixed messages from Obama, Petraeus on Afghanistan pullout

زلمي رسول د ملګرملتونو په عمومي غونډه کې د افغانستان په اړه څرګندونې وکړې

د افغانستان د بهرنیو چارو وزیر زلمي رسول د ملګرو ملتو عمومي غونډې ته چې په نړۍ کې له فقر سره د مبارزې لپاره جوړه شوې، وویل، له ننه لس کاله مخکې چې ملګرو ملتو زریزه یا ملینیوم اعلامیه تصویب کړه، په هغې کې یې له وچکالي سره پر مبارزې ټینګار وکړ، پر جنسي مساوات یې تاکیید وکړ، د چاپیریال ساتنې مساله یې جدي وبلله او فردي ازادۍ یې هم مهمې وګڼلې.....زلمي رسول د ملګرملتونو په عمومي غونډه کې د افغانستان په اړه څرګندونې وکړې
د امریکا دفاع وزیراولوی درستیز د افغان ستراتیژۍ دفاع وکړه
امريكا از افغانستان عقب نشینی نخواهد کرد:زلمی رسول در مصاحبهء اختصاصی با تلویزیون العربیه
قرارداد استراتژیک میان افغانستان و آمریکا

Widespread Fraud Seen in Afghan Elections - nytimes

KABUL, Afghanistan — Evidence is mounting that fraud in Afghan election was so widespread that it could affect the results in a third of provinces, calling into question the credibility of the vote. -- Widespread Fraud Seen in Afghan Elections

Wall Street Surges on Signs of More Capital Spending

The reluctant commander in chief - Michael Gerson

What comes across is a president deeply skeptical about the Afghan war, suspicious of the advice of military leaders and obsessed with finding exits and setting withdrawal deadlines. -- Our reluctant commander
Obama: US in Afghanistan until 'job is done

A foreign policy divide among conservatives
White House reviews nation's cybersecurity

Obama rebukes Ahmadinejad for 'offensive' U.N. speech - washingtonpost

In an interview with the BBC's Persian service, which broadcasts directly to the Iranian public, Obama said of Ahmadinejad's speech Thursday: "It was offensive. It was hateful." -- Obama rebukes Ahmadinejad for 'offensive' U.N. speech
Obama's U.N. visit includes strong outreach to Asia

U.S. walks out on Ahmadinejad speech
Pakistan angry over terror conviction in US

Gold ends at record high, taps $1,300 - Market Watch

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) — Gold futures ended at a record high Friday as the dollar weakened and investors continued to flock to the metal as a hedge against fears of inflation and currency weakness -- Dollar falls vs. major rivals; silver hits 30-year high

PRECIOUS METALS: Gold Sets Records Again, Ends Below $1300 - WSJ
Silver Futures Jump to 30-Year High: Gold Rise to Record, Topping $1300

کتاب «جنگ های اوباما»، حرف های تازه در مورد افغانستان

باب وودوارد می گوید، رییس جمهور امریکا هر نوع تلاش برای ملت سازی درازمدت را درافغانستان را رد کرده است. این کتاب از روی تضادها و مخالفت های جدی موجود میان مسوولین امنیت ملی قصر سفید درمورد مسالهء افغانستان، پرده برداشته، جوانب مختلف جنگ افغانستان را به بررسی گرفته است .... - کتاب «جنگ های اوباما»، حرف های تازه در مورد افغانستان
بارک اوباما در اجلاس عمومی سازمان ملل بیانیه اش را ایراد کرد

Woodward Book Says Afghanistan Divided White House - nytimes
Book says aides doubt Obama's Afghan strategy - washingtonpost
Bob Woodward book details Obama battles with advisers over exit ...
مخالفین طرح مصالحه، دستگیر و یا کشته میشوند!

GOP's 'Pledge' aims to walk a fine line - latimes

In unveiling their "Pledge to America" on Thursday, House Republicans hoped to portray a party hard at work on its priorities and braced to defend itself against accusations that it is short on ideas. -- Los Angeles Times
USA Today - Wall Street Journal - CBS News

GOP ready to make 'Pledge to America'

Voting in Afghanistan: Low bar | The Economist

IT DID not take long for the international community to give Saturday’s parliamentary election a big thumbs-up. A coordinated torrent of praise from the main foreign missions in Afghanistan began to gush a few hours after polls closed. -- Voting in Afghanistan: Low bar The Economist

جاپان 50 ملیون دالر برای پروسهء صلح افغانستان کمک می کند

Nick Clegg and Joe Biden swap ideas on protecting low-paid during recession

Nick Clegg today met his US counterpart, Joe Biden, the vice-president, to exchange ideas on how to protect working families from policies aimed at tackling the recession. -- Nick Clegg and Joe Biden swap ideas on protecting low-paid during recession

Warren Buffett: 'We're still in a recession' - National Post
Bill Gates still richest American, Forbes says

4 senators urge Obama to fire Afghanistan watchdog

WASHINGTON -- A group of senators is urging President Barack Obama to fire the special inspector general responsible for overseeing how billions of American tax dollars are being spent to rebuild Afghanistan. -- 4 senators urge Obama to fire Afghanistan watchdog

Obama, at U.N., focuses on human rights, democracy - washingtonost

UNITED NATIONS - President Obama outlined Thursday a role for American global leadership focused on the promotion of human rights and democracy around the world and urged nations to "not stand idly by" when those values are threatened. -- President focuses on human rights, democracy
U.S. walks out on Ahmadenijad

Muslims Say They Face More Work Discrimination

NY Times - At a time of growing tensions involving Muslims in the United States, a record number of Muslim workers are complaining of employment discrimination, from co-workers calling them “terrorist” or “Osama” to employers barring them from wearing head scarves or taking prayer breaks. - Muslims Say They Face More Discrimination at Work

Snickers Greet Premiere of Afghan Film

US Walks Out as Iran Leader Speaks - nytimes

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad addresses world leaders during the General Assembly at the United Nations on Thursday -- US Walks Out as Iran Leader Speaks
U.N. delegates walk out during Iranian president's speech CNN
msnbc.com - AFP - Reuters - BBC News

Breast cancer rates fell with hormone therapy drop - Reuters

Canadian study links hormone replacement, breast cancer -- Breast cancer rates fell with
Breast cancer tied to hormone use: study - CBC
U.S. News & World Report - WebMD - msnbc.com - TIME

House Clears Small-Business Bill - WSJ

House lawmakers voted Thursday largely along party lines to approve legislation that includes a range of measures aimed at helping small businesses get improved access to capital and $12 billion in tax credits for smaller firm owners. -- House Clears Small-Business Bill
House OKs small biz jobs bill CNN
Congress sends small business bill to Obama Associated Press

Ban Ki-moon says UN millennium goals 'can be met' - BBC

The Millennium Development Goals can still be met if enough work is done, the UN secretary general has said. -- UN millennium goals 'can be met'
How can global poverty be reduced?
Obama urges peace talks support

وزیر خارجه در نیویارک - زنان افغان راه طولانی را طی کرده اند

داکتر زلمی رسول در بخشی از سخنان خود در نیویارک با اشاره به انتخابات پارلمانی گفت شمار زیاد زنان در انتخابات نشان می دهد که زنان افغان با طی کردن راه طولانی اکنون نقش مؤثری را در جامعه افغانستان به عهده گرفته اند.... - وزیر خارجه در نیویارک - زنان افغان راه طولانی را طی کرده اند...

Best Places To Live In Europe: USwitch Quality Of Life Index (PHOTOS)

With a high number of paid holidays, early retirement age and ample sunshine, the French quality of life is vastly superior to that in the British Isles, a new study has shown. -- PHOTOS: Best Places To Live In Europe

CIA Operating 3,000-Man Army In Afghanistan, Pakistan - huffingtopost

WASHINGTON — The CIA has trained and bankrolled a well-paid force of elite Afghan paramilitaries for nearly eight years to hunt al-Qaida and the Taliban for the CIA, according to current and former U.S. officials. -- Counterterrorist Pursuit Team: 3,000 Man CIA Paramilitary Force Hunts Militants In Afghanistan, Pakistan

Afghan commander Massoud, killed on eve of 9/11 attacks, is a national hero - latimes

Ahmed Shah Massoud has been turned into a ubiquitous symbol by the Afghan government, with the support of America. President Hamid Karzai, soon after taking office, proclaimed Sept. 9 as Massoud Day. -- Afghan commander Massoud, killed on eve of 9/11 attacks, is a national hero
The GOP's 'Pledge to America': A closer look at the details - washingtonpost

GOP ready to make 'Pledge to America' - latimes

The party's manifesto calls for tax and spending cuts, a repeal of Obama's healthcare law and strict adherence to the Constitution. -- GOP ready to make 'Pledge to America'
CNN - New York Times - CBS News - USA Today

U.S. covert paramilitary presence in Afghanistan much larger than thought

CIA teams made up of Afghans operating near Pakistan, disclosed in book, WikiLeaks' documents. -- U.S. covert paramilitary presence in Afghanistan much larger than thought
مخالفین طرح مصالحه، دستگیر و یا کشته میشوند!
Generals in civilian posts were toughest critics of surge, Woodward writes
Al-Jazeera protests NATO detention of 2 cameramen in Afghanistan

Dr. Zalmai Rassoul in New York for the UN General Assembly

H.E. Dr. Zalmai Rassoul, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, arrives in New York City today as head of Afghanistan’s delegation to represent the country in the General Debate of the 65th Session of the UN General Assembly, as well as other scheduled events. (Read More...)
Afghan elections top the agenda of talks between Foreign Minister and UN chief

Books of The Times: Afghanistan as Obama and Others Game It - nytimes

It’s no secret that there have been ferocious arguments within the Obama administration over the war in Afghanistan: -- Books of The Times: Afghanistan as Obama and Others Game It
McChrystal Article Inquiry Leaves Questions Open

U.S. Lauds Russia on Barring Arms to Iran, as Obama Speaks to U.N.

UNITED NATIONS — The White House praised Russia’s president, Dmitri A. Medvedev, on Wednesday for publicly barring the shipment of an advanced antimissile system to Iran, even as American diplomats here discussed a plan to reopen negotiations with Tehran over its nuclear program. -- U.S. Lauds Russia on Barring Arms to Iran, as Obama Speaks to U.N.
U.S. Influence in Asia Revives Amid China’s Disputes
At the U.N., Turkey Asserts Itself in Prominent Ways

Barack Obama 'infuriated with infighting' over Afghanistan - Telegraph

Barack Obama wrote his own six-page exit strategy for the war in Afghanistan after becoming infuriated with infighting in Washington over the future of the conflict, according to a new book. - Frustrated Obama 'wrote own Afghan exit strategy'

U.S. Downplays Rifts Over Afghanistan - WSJ

"I'm not doing 10 years. …I'm not doing long-term nation-building. I am not spending a trillion dollars."

White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said Mr. Obama believed it was important to avoid an "unlimited or open-ended" commitment in Afghanistan. .... - U.S. Downplays Rifts Over Afghanistan
U.S. Seeks Role in Afghan Jail

With events large and small, UN observes Day of Peace worldwide

This year’s Day is dedicated to young people, as 2010 also marks the beginning of the International Year of Youth, whose theme is dialogue and mutual understanding. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon used his official message to urge youth to work to promote international peace. -- With events large and small, UN observes Day of Peace worldwide
On International Peace Day, Ban turns spotlight on world’s young people
UN chief kicks off drive to save more than 16 million women and children worldwide

Swiss women claim majority of seats in Cabinet

GENEVA (AP) — Swiss women for the first time captured most of the seats in the country's seven-member executive branch Wednesday, brushing aside Switzerland's history as one of Europe's last nations to grant women full suffrage. -- Swiss women claim majority of seats in Cabinet - AP

Swedish vote a bellwether as Europe moves right

كودكان افغان: ما صلح مي‌خواهيم

از بیست و یکم سپتامبر، روز جهانی صلح، در نقاط مختلف افغانستان از سوی نهادهای مدنی، حقوق بشری و رسانه‌ها با راه‌اندازی برنامه‌های مختلفی تجلیل شد.از این روز که همه ساله در جهان تجلیل می‌شود، امسال در افغانستان با شعار «صلح و آینده» که از سوی سازمان ملل متحد انتخاب شده است، تجلیل شد.برگزار‌کنندگان روز جهانی صلح در کابل، با راه‌اندازی کمپاین وسیعی از تمام طرف‌های دردگیر جنگ خواستند تا به احترام این روز دست از سلاح بردارند و اعلان آتش‌بس نمایند .....- كودكان افغان: ما صلح مي‌خواهيم
نشریات کابل: چهارشنبه 31 سنبله --- انتخابات، در سایه‌ی تفنگ گروه‌های تفنگی
On International Peace Day, Ban turns spotlight on world’s young people
در مساله کابل بانک مقصر کیست؟
توسط کمپنی ام‌سی‌سی چین، 900 کیلومتر خط آهن احداث می‌شود

In Woodward book on debate over Afghanistan war, was Obama audacious? - CSM

Excepts from the Woodward book on Obama's decisions on the Afghanistan war reveal the qualities of mind in the president. How do those fare against recommendations of the great historian of war, Carl Von Clausewitz? -- In Woodward book on debate over Afghanistan war, was Obama audacious?

Obama, an Afghanistan war exit plan, and getting 'rolled'

Obama At U.N. To Remind World Of His Policy Goals - NPR

President Obama returns to the U.N. today and Thursday, delivering two speeches to address efforts to combat global poverty and other foreign policy issues, including nuclear disarmament and the Middle East. -- Obama At U.N. To Remind World Of His Policy Goals

'مشاوران ارشد اوباما در باره استراتژی افغانستان تردید دارند'

بنا به مندرجات کتابی که قرار است هفته آینده در ایالات متحده منتشر شود مشاوران ارشد باراک اوباما، رئیس جمهوری این کشور، در مورد استراتژی آمریکا در افغانستان به شدت اختلاف نظر دارند
روزنامه آمریکایی نیویورک تایمز، که نوشته است به نسخه ای از این کتاب دسترسی پیدا کرده است، آورده ریچارد هولبروک، نماینده ویژه آمریکا در منطقه از جمله افرادی است که نسبت به این استراتژی ابراز تردید کرده اند
این کتاب با عنوان "جنگ های اوباما"، تازه ترین کتاب باب وودوارد، خبرنگار آمریکایی است..... - 'مشاوران ارشد اوباما در باره استراتژی افغانستان تردید دارند'
Woodward Book Says Afghanistan Divided White House - nytimes
Book says aides doubt Obama's Afghan strategy - washingtonpost

White House doesn't dispute Woodward book's portrayal of Obama - washingtonpost

With juicy nuggets of the new Bob Woodward book on President Obama starting to emerge, the official White House reaction so far is: It's just fine. -- White House doesn't dispute Woodward book's portrayal of Obama
Bob Woodward book details battles over exit plan for Afghan war
Telegraph.co.uk - Christian Science Monitor - USA Today

Bob Woodward: Obama Determined To Find Afghanistan Exit Strategy - abcnews

A new book by legendary Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward paints President Obama as a commander in chief who's searching for and demanding -- amid fierce internal debate among advisers and military leaders -- an exit strategy from Afghanistan. -- Bob Woodward: Obama Determined To Find Afghanistan Exit Strategy
The Associated Press - New book digs into Obama strategy - BBC
Washington Post scooped by New York Times on Bob Woodward story - Guardian

Bob Woodward book details Obama battles with advisers over exit plan for Afghan war

President Obama urgently looked for a way out of the war in Afghanistan last year, repeatedly pressing his top military advisers for an exit plan that they never gave him, according to secret meeting notes and documents cited in a new book by journalist Bob Woodward. -- Woodward's book reveals battles over exit plan
Book says aides doubt Obama's Afghan strategy - washingtonpost

Where's the proof of corruption by the Karzai family? - washingtonpost

In a Sept. 18 editorial, "Fighting Afghan corruption," The Post wrote: "There's no question that members of the Afghan leader's family have been plausibly accused of improperly enriching themselves and that he has protected them . . . from Western-backed investigations." .... Stop harassing the family of Hamid Karzai
Mahmood Karzai, Kabul -- Ahmad Wali Karzai, Kandahar

A Director’s Many Battles to Make Her Movie - nytimes

“The Black Tulip,” a tragic love story that Ms. Cole finished at Warner Brothers, is scheduled for its premiere at the Ariana Cinema Theater in Kabul on Thursday. -- A Director’s Many Battles to Make a Movie in Afghanistan

U.N. to Announce Aid for Women and Children - nytimes

UNITED NATIONS — Secretary General Ban Ki-moon plans to end a development summit meeting of world leaders on Wednesday by announcing a huge increase in aid to improve the health of women and children, but independent specialists said they were skeptical about the amount of actual new money committed, given the global economic crisis. -- U.N. to Announce Aid for Women and Children

UN anti-poverty goals get new financial pledges - washingtonpost

Woodward Book Portrays Obama Aides’ Battles

WASHINGTON — Some of the critical players in President Obama’s national security team doubt his strategy in Afghanistan will succeed and have spent much of the last 20 months quarreling with one another over policy, personalities and turf, according to a new book. -- Woodward Book Says Afghanistan Divided White House - nytimes

Afghan reporter is detained - AP

KABUL, Afghanistan -- A joint NATO and Afghan force has arrested an Afghan journalist in the eastern region of Ghazni, saying it is investigating suspicions he may have been too close to Taliban militants. -- Afghan reporter is detained
U.S. soldiers accused of killing Afghan civilians for sport
Afghan warlords hedge bets, contest elections - KATHY GANNON
Ahmadinejad lost in translation - Americas - Al Jazeera English

EDITORIAL: Progress for democracy in Afghanistan‎ - washingtontimes

Alzheimer's Has Hefty Global Price Tag

Sept. 21, 2010 -- A new international report about Alzheimer’s disease suggests that the global economic impact of dementia costs about $604 billion or 1% of the global Gross Domestic Product, indicating that the financial toll of caring for patients with Alzheimer’s is substantial and expected to rise. -- Alzheimer's Has Hefty Global Price Tag
Worldwide Dementia Price Tag $604 Billion: Report BusinessWeek
AFP - BBC News - The Guardian - CTV.ca

Afghan Boys Are Prized, So Girls Live the Part

The practice may stretch back centuries. Nancy Dupree, an 83-year-old American who has spent most of her life as a historian working in Afghanistan, said she had not heard of the phenomenon, but recalled a photograph from the early 1900s belonging to the private collection of a member of the Afghan royal family.

“Segregation calls for creativity,” Mrs. Dupree said. “These people have the most amazing coping ability.” --- Afghan Boys Are Prized, So Girls Live the Part - nytimes

Excerpt From 'Dan Rather Reports'
In Afghanistan, Boys Are Prized and Girls Live the Part

"Turning the Page" in Iraq and Afghanistan - huffingtonpost

"Despite discouraging news from Afghanistan and growing doubts in Congress and among the American public, the Obama administration has concluded that its war strategy is sound and that a December review, once seen as a pivotal moment, is unlikely to yield any major changes."(The Washington Post, September 18, 2010)

"Turning the Page" in Iraq and Afghanistan
Linda Polman on "Afghaniscam": Is U.S. "Aid" Making Things Worse?

روز جهانی صلح، فرصتی برای بیزاری از جنگ و خشونت

اعلام روز 21 سپتامبر به عنوان روز جهانی صلح و تجلیل و گرامی‌داشت از آن در بسیاری از نقاط جهان دست‌کم این حقیقت را که بشریت از جنگ و خشونت و توسل به قهر و زور به حیث یگانه راه‌حل قضایا و مشکلات میان انسان‌ها بیزار است، تثبیت کرده است. گرچه هنوز هم در همه نقطه‌های جهان نشانه‌های آشکاری از کاربرد خشونت و زمینه‌سازی برای جنگ و خونریزی هم‌چنان وجود دارد و حتا بسیاری‌ها فقط از روی ریا و دروغ و مصلحت و تظاهر به صلح‌خواهی و ضدیت با جنگ می‌پردازند و می‌کوشند نیات و مقاصد جنگ‌افروزانه‌ی‌شان را در پرتو شعارهای صلح‌خواهی و ضدیت با جنگ پنهان دارند، ولی حتا همین نکته که جنگ‌افروزان نیز، ناگزیراند برخلاف واقع خود را هوادار صلح معرفی کنند، نشانه‌ی آن است که صلح به عنوان یک مطلوب و مقصد منطقی و باارزش، جایگاه خودش را در روان انسانی و وجدان بشری تثبیت کرده است. .... - روز جهانی صلح، فرصتی برای بیزاری از جنگ و خشونت
كودكان افغان: ما صلح مي‌خواهيم
United Nations: International Day of Peace
مسلمان‌هراسی در اوج بحران اقتصادی

‘No time to relax’ in the fight against hunger, top UN official warns

Calling hunger “the most severe face of poverty,” the head of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that only swift and committed action by global leaders will make the difference for the millions of people worldwide who have to subsist on one meal or even less every day. -- ‘No time to relax’ in the fight against hunger, top UN official warns

Number of world’s hungry dips below 1 billion, UN reports
Ban urges world leaders to invest in global project to overcome poverty

U.N. foresees dramatic cuts in poverty - washingtonpost

A decade ago, world leaders at the United Nations signed off on eight goals aimed at transforming the lives of the world's least fortunate - including cutting extreme poverty in half by 2015. Many Americans were skeptical; in a poll, only 8 percent thought that was possible. - U.N. foresees cuts in poverty
Your Take: What is necessary to reduce poverty?

UN officials stress decent work and social protection measures to fight poverty

Obama answers skeptics after recession is declared officially over - washingtonpost

On the day that the Great Recession was officially declared to be part of history, President Obama confronted deepening angst from business leaders and ordinary Americans who have little faith that the recovery is for real. -- Recession ends, anxiety lingers

What if the Bush tax cuts lapse?
Dear Obama: What are your economic worries?

The Interview - General Sir Richard Dannatt - BBC

General Sir Richard Dannatt was in charge of the British army for three years from 2006 to 2009 -- when his soldiers faced particularly fierce fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. He went public with criticisms of the then government's policy. -- Listen now
18/09/2010 General Sir Richard Dannatt

Jamie McCourt testifies she didn't read key agreement carefully - latimes

In court for divorce case, she insists she didn't realize the contract would mean Frank got sole ownership of the Dodgers if they were to split. His lawyers express incredulity given her background. -- Jamie McCourt testifies she didn't read key agreement carefully

Helicopter crash in Afghanistan kills nine Western troops

British Forces Leave Deadly Afghan District - nytimes

KABUL, Afghanistan — Britain withdrew the last of its Royal Marines from the deadly Sangin District in Helmand Province on Monday, handing control over to American troops. - British Forces Leave Deadly Afghan District
Opposition Sees Gains After Afghan Voting
NATO Members Killed in Afghan Crash

In Afghanistan, Boys Are Prized and Girls Live the Part

Powell unsure whether US is winning in Afghanistan‎

WASHINGTON (AP) — Colin Powell, once the nation's highest-ranking military officer and later a secretary of state, said Sunday he doesn't know whether the United States is winning in Afghanistan. -- Powell unsure whether US is winning in Afghanistan‎

Karzai believes too early to judge Afghan election Reuters

Homeowner Tips for Getting Loan Modifications

--Their advice: Get help, stay organized, and don't give up. -- Home Affordable Modification Program. --- HOPE Hotline, at 1-888-995-HOPE. -- HUD-approved counselors; homeowners can access the list of counselors directly at HUD's website

Homeowner Tips for Getting Loan Modifications
Housing and Economic Rights Advocates
The world of loan modifications: how to stay afloat and keep on keepin' on

Afghanistan election: Why the next parliament won't check Karzai's power - CSM

The results of Saturday's Afghanistan election aren't expected for days, but because the parliamentary candidates ran as individuals, not as party members, they are unlikely to unite in opposition to President Hamid Karzai. -- Afghanistan election: Why the next parliament won't check Karzai's power
Afghanistan election day: spotty turnout, fake voter cards, and some feisty voters
BBC فارسی - صفحات ویژه - صفحه ویژه: انتخابات پارلمانی افغانستان

WATCH: Colin Powell Knocks Gingrich's Assertion That Obama Has 'Kenyan' Worldview

In a largely even-tempered appearance on "Meet the Press" Sunday, former Secretary of State Colin Powell did save a few harsh words for former House Speaker Newt Gingrich for propagating rumors about the president that he labeled "nonsense."

"I would just tell my fellow Americans: think carefully about what was just said, think carefully about some of the stuff that is coming across the blogs and the airwaves. Let's make a couple points: One, the president was born in the United States of America. Let's get rid of that one, let's get rid of the birther thing. Let's attack him on policy and not nonsense. Next, he is a Christian. He is not a Muslim. Twenty percent of the people see he is a Muslim, 80 percent apparently do not believe he is a Muslim." -- SAM STEIN WATCH: Colin Powell Knocks Gingrich's Assertion That Obama Has 'Kenyan' Worldview

Powell: Obama to face ‘difficult’ Afghan choice - Meet the Press

Pakistan Floods Push Malnourished Kids To The Brink: Children Need Food

More than 100,000 children left homeless by Pakistan's floods are in danger of dying because they simply do not have enough to eat, according to UNICEF. -- Pakistan Floods Push Malnourished Kids To The Brink

Afghans defy violence and head to polls

نخسین مجلس شورای ملی افغانستان چگونه تشکیل شد؟

نخستین دوره شورای ملی را محمد نادر شاه (پدر ظاهر شاه آخرین شاه افغانستان) افتتاح کرد و این کار او به نحوی ادامه برنامه اصلاحات امان‌الله خان، شاه پیشین افغانستان شمرده می شود
محمد نادر، که خود سپه‌سالار ارتش امان‌الله خان بود، در زمان سقوط دولت امانی به دست حبیب‌الله کلکانی (۱۳۰۸) سفیر افغانستان در پاریس بود. او به افغانستان بازگشت و به حمایت قبایل مناطق جنوبی کشور دولت نه ماهه کلکانی را سرنگون کرد

عبدالحمید مبارز، پژوهشگر و روزنامه‌نگار می‌گوید که نادر شاه با توجه به تجربه مخالفت محافظه‌کاران مذهبی با دولت امان‌الله خان، تصویب برخی قوانین و حتی تشکیل شورای ملی را با "احتیاط زیاد" و تاکید بر مسایل مذهبی روی دست گرفت.
به گفته آقای مبارز، نادر شاه به همین دلیل قانون اساسی امانی را لغو کرد و در جرگه ۳۰۱ نفری سال ۱۳۰۹ دومین قانون اساسی کشور و نخستین قانون انتخابات شورای ملی را تصویب کرد..... - نخستین مجلس شورای ملی افغانستان چگونه تشکیل شد؟
BBC فارسی - صفحات ویژه - صفحه ویژه: انتخابات پارلمانی افغانستان

سالگرد استقلال افغانستان؛ نگاهی به شورای دولت امانی
انتخابات پارلمانی افغانستان به روایت آمار
افغانستان؛ سی سال بدون پارلمان -- مجلس شورای ملی در دهه دموکراسی
مجلس شورای ملی در دوره ظاهر شاه -- نخستین مجلس شورای ملی افغانستان چگونه تشکیل شد؟

مجلس شورای ملی در دهه دموکراسی

دهه چهل خورشیدی بهترین دوره پارلمان در نظام سلطنتی افغانستان شمرده می‌شود. اختیارات گسترده و تنوع بی‌سابقه در ترکیب اعضای مجلس، از مشخصات پارلمان این دوره است
نخستین انتخابات پارلمانی "دهه دموکراسی" در سنبله/شهریور ۱۳۴۴ برگزار شد که از لحاظ دموکراتیک بودن تا آن زمان در افغانستان سابقه نداشت. این انتخابات بر اساس تقسیمات اداری جدید، ۲۱۶ نماینده را از همین تعداد حوزه انتخاباتی در سراسر کشور وارد مجلس نمایندگان کرد

هر چند این مجلس بر اساس قانون اساسی جدید، مجلس اول نامیده می‌شد، اما رهبری نظام سلطنتی آن را مجلس "دوازدهم" نامید و افتتاحییه آن هم در ۲۲ میزان، زادروز محمد ظاهر، شاه وقت برگزار شد. دوره کاری مجلس بر اساس قانون اساسی جدید، چهار ساله بود.

برای نخستین بار در تاریخ پارلمانی افغانستان، چهار زن هم عضو مجلس دوازدهم شدند: رقیه حبیب و اناهیتا راتب‌زاد از کابل، خدیجه احراری از هرات و معصومه عصمتی از قندهار

این نخستین باری بود که نمایندگان مردم از مناطق مختلف و با زبان‌ها، قومیتها، مذاهب و فرهنگ‌های مختلف به طور آزادانه با هم در صحن یک مجلس گفتگو می‌کردند. ولی این تنوع گاهی اختلافات بحث انگیزی را در میان نمایندگان مجلس برمی‌انگیخت. این گفتگوها گاهی به مشاجرات طولانی منجر می‌شد......- مجلس شورای ملی در دهه دموکراسی
فراز و فرود مجلس شورای ملی در دوره ظاهر شاه - ۱
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Tribute to King Zahir Shah....Baba e Millat... ...
افغانستان؛ سی سال بدون پارلمان
شورای دولت امانی؛ تلاشی برای تفکیک قوا در افغانستان؟
نخسین مجلس شورای ملی افغانستان چگونه تشکیل شد؟
BBC فارسی - صفحات ویژه - صفحه ویژه: انتخابات پارلمانی افغانستان

Afghan Election Questioned As Tally Starts - AP

KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghan election observers said they had serious concerns about the legitimacy of this weekend's parliamentary balloting as officials began Sunday to tally the results — a process that could take months. -- Afghan observers question election as tally starts‎

E-Day in Kabul -- Foreign Policy

Afghanistan's parliamentary elections on Saturday may be the country's last chance to establish a true democracy. -- E-Day in Kabul - By E. Benjamin Skinner Foreign Policy

Afghan elections: Yes, there will be fraud
We can take Iran's help on Afghanistan without letting up on nukes