Friday, July 9 2021

Biden declares end to US war in Afghanistan, and Tokyo bans spectators from the Olympics *) Biden says US to leave Afghanistan on August 31 President Joe Biden has said the US military mission in Afghanistan will conclude on August 31. Biden says it’s "highly unlikely" that one government will control Afghanistan after the US pullout, and urged Kabul to reach a deal with the Taliban. The announcement comes as the Afghan forces fend off an offensive that has resulted in fighting in most of the country. *) Egypt, Sudan urge UN action on Nile dam, Ethiopia says 'no' Egypt and Sudan urged the UN Security Council to undertake “preventive diplomacy” and call for a legally binding agreement to resolve the Nile dam dispute with Ethiopia. Addia Ababa insists the matter can be resolved by the African Union, and many council members agreed. Egypt and Sudan say the dam poses “a threat” to people in downstream nations, while Ethiopia says the project is vital to the country’s development. *) US citizens among several detained over Haiti leader's assassination Two men believed to be US citizens are among 17 suspects arrested in connection with the assassination of Haiti’s President. The leader was killed by gunmen at his home in a brazen attack that came amid deepening instability in the country. Colombia’s government said six of the suspects were retired members of Colombia's army. *) Parties to Syrian conflict hold main session of Astana talks The 16th round of Astana talks on Syria's future has taken place in Kazakhstan. The talks ended with a joint declaration to continue the fight against terrorists in the region. Other topics of discussion included the situation on the ground, delivery of humanitarian aid, and the resumption of the Syrian Constitutional Committee in Geneva. And finally ... *) Sport bodies disappointed but accept Tokyo decision to ban spectators Sport ruling bodies expressed their disappointment but also accepted Tokyo’s decision to ban spectators from the Olympics over Covid-19 fears.