hello and welcome to the programme that brings together bbc specialists and the foreign correspondents who write, blog and broadcast to audiences back home from the dateline london. this week: one virus, three countries — the contrasting covid fortunes of china, the united states and the uk. afghanistan's president says it'll take six months to rout the taliban. does he have six weeks? joining me this week:

henry chu, uk bureau chief of the american paper the la times, ned temko, who is with the christian science monitor, and bbc uk political correspondent damian grammaticas is with me in the studio. have you with us this week, and good to have you with us at home, thank you for watching. —— lovely to have you for watching. —— lovely to have you with this week. it's been a week of contrating fortunes in the global pandemic. here in the uk, wales is lifting its covid restrictions over the weekend, and scotland will lift most covid restrictions at the end of this weekend, three weeks after borisjohnson did the same in england. fears of a signficant surge in cases have not been born out, and the number of people requiring hospitalisation appears to have stabilised. there's also been the first fall in the number of infections since the end of may, and a reduction in the r—rate below one come in other words, the virus is not growing in the population. the delta variant, first identified in india, is now the dominant strain.

in the united states, it's led dr anthony fauci, the infectious diseases expert who's been advising us presidents since the 1980s, to warn sunday the us is "going in the wrong direction". in wuhan, the chinese city where the virus was first detected in late 2019, the authorities are testing the entire population. the delta variant has brought covid back home with a vengeance. what's happening there at the moment? . , ., , , moment? china is really interesting at the minute- _ moment? china is really interesting at the minute. going _ moment? china is really interesting at the minute. going back— moment? china is really interesting at the minute. going back to - moment? china is really interesting at the minute. going back to the . at the minute. going back to the beginning of the pandemic and we know of course the first cases that appeared in wuhan, then china mobilise this response, and it's the sort of thing, when you lived in beijing, you get used to it, china can pull these massive resources and pull the levers of state power and impose these policies, being an authoritarian regime, but are very centrally directed... authoritarian regime, but are very centrally directed. . ._ centrally directed... they closed off roads at _ centrally directed... they closed off roads at one _ centrally directed... they closed off roads at one point. _ centrally directed... they closed off roads at one point. people i off roads at one point. people confined to — off roads at one point. people confined to their— off roads at one point. people confined to their homes, - off roads at one point. people confined to their homes, and | off roads at one point. people i confined to their homes, and the off roads at one point. people - confined to their homes, and the one

person in the household are let out every three days to get food, entire cities placed under lockdown, very strict measures. that has worked in china will return to a level of normality. what we have seen is with this new delta variant, there was a flight, it appears, from moscow into nanjing about a month ago, which puts the virus in and it appears it was airport workers pleading the paint who carry that out and spread it and itjust paint who carry that out and spread it and it just shows the paint who carry that out and spread it and itjust shows the dangers of how that bird can spread. —— airport workers cleaning the plane who carried it out. the figures are still very low, i think 80 or so a day on average, but we are seeing again the sort of measures coming backin again the sort of measures coming back in because the difficulty for china is it is in provinces all along the east, in a city of 4.5 million, nanjing is over5 along the east, in a city of 4.5 million, nanjing is over 5 million, you've got wee hung, ii million, nanjing is over 5 million, you've got wee hung, 11 million, people being tested, —— wuhan is 11

million millions of people enough city for the north are not being allowed out of the city without a negative test. they're trying to squashit negative test. they're trying to squash it but it's a challenge for china and there are questions about if they can continue with these sort of policies. it if they can continue with these sort of olicies. ,., , ~ ., if they can continue with these sort of olicies. , ~ ., , of policies. it sounds like a comp aet a of policies. it sounds like a comp get a game _ of policies. it sounds like a comp get a game of — of policies. it sounds like a comp get a game of whack _ of policies. it sounds like a comp get a game of whack a _ of policies. it sounds like a comp get a game of whack a mole - of policies. it sounds like a comp. get a game of whack a mole being played there. ned, in the uk, despite all of the predictions, it looks at the moment as if the vaccination programme and other measures have worked, at least in restraining the delta variant. we are not out of the woods yet but when you compare what is happening in china and elsewhere in the world, what is your assessment? that the 're what is your assessment? that they're extraordinarily - what is your assessment? that they're extraordinarily fortunate, and it _ they're extraordinarily fortunate, and it really has been quite a turn of events, — and it really has been quite a turn of events, because when so—called freedom _ of events, because when so—called freedom monday happened three weeks a-o, freedom monday happened three weeks ago. the _ freedom monday happened three weeks ago, the great majority of public health_ ago, the great majority of public health professionals, scientists here _ health professionals, scientists here were deeply concerned because here were deeply concerned because here in— here were deeply concerned because here in one _ here were deeply concerned because here in one fell swoop, all are virtually— here in one fell swoop, all are virtually all of the restrictions

were — virtually all of the restrictions were going at the very time that the delta _ were going at the very time that the delta variant was surging in britain as everywhere else. but for reasons we may— as everywhere else. but for reasons we may fully understand only in the months _ we may fully understand only in the months ahead, like so much about this virus. — months ahead, like so much about this virus. it— months ahead, like so much about this virus, it was the dog that didn't— this virus, it was the dog that didn't bark. i mean, the case numbers— didn't bark. i mean, the case numbers have come right down, hospitalisations of course remain low, _ hospitalisations of course remain low, so _ hospitalisations of course remain low, so the — hospitalisations of course remain low, so the deaths, thankfully. and it appears— low, so the deaths, thankfully. and it appears the combination of this undeniably successful vaccination programme and, i guess, just the start— programme and, i guess, just the start of— programme and, i guess, just the start of something resembling herd immunity— start of something resembling herd immunity has, at least for now, put them _ immunity has, at least for now, put them in _ immunity has, at least for now, put them in a _ immunity has, at least for now, put them in a very good place compared to the _ them in a very good place compared to the rest— them in a very good place compared to the rest of the rope was of the one thing — to the rest of the rope was of the one thing i— to the rest of the rope was of the one thing i would add, very briefly, as it is _ one thing i would add, very briefly, as it is interesting that boris johnson, _ as it is interesting that boris johnson, the prime minister's health

secretary— johnson, the prime minister's health secretary and other senior figures have been— secretary and other senior figures have been very, very careful not to take a _ have been very, very careful not to take a victory lap yet because i think— take a victory lap yet because i think they— take a victory lap yet because i think they know, as we all do, that this virus— think they know, as we all do, that this virus does not take political orders — this virus does not take political orders. , ., �* , ., this virus does not take political orders. , ., �*, ., , this virus does not take political orders. , . �*, ., , orders. henry, that's a very good wa of orders. henry, that's a very good way of getting — orders. henry, that's a very good way of getting us _ orders. henry, that's a very good way of getting us to _ orders. henry, that's a very good way of getting us to the - orders. henry, that's a very good way of getting us to the us, - orders. henry, that's a very good l way of getting us to the us, where despite political orders and the power of the president, joe biden's incentives and all the other things, he can't seem to get past this problem that vaccination, like so much else in american politics has become politicised and there is still, apparently, ithink become politicised and there is still, apparently, i think if you add the figures together of those who say they won't take it and those who say they won't take it and those who say they are resistant to taking it, 37% of republican voters probably not going to vaccinate at the moment and probably not going to vaccinate. it the moment and probably not going to vaccinate. ., , . ., ., ., vaccinate. it does cleave along artisan vaccinate. it does cleave along partisan lines, _ vaccinate. it does cleave along partisan lines, as _ vaccinate. it does cleave along partisan lines, as you - vaccinate. it does cleave along partisan lines, as you say, - vaccinate. it does cleave along partisan lines, as you say, and vaccinate. it does cleave along . partisan lines, as you say, and we see the _ partisan lines, as you say, and we see the states _ partisan lines, as you say, and we see the states that _ partisan lines, as you say, and we see the states that have - partisan lines, as you say, and we see the states that have the - partisan lines, as you say, and we i see the states that have the lowest vaccination — see the states that have the lowest vaccination rates _ see the states that have the lowest vaccination rates are _ see the states that have the lowest vaccination rates are when - see the states that have the lowest vaccination rates are when we - see the states that have the lowest vaccination rates are when we call. vaccination rates are when we call red states, — vaccination rates are when we call red states, republican _ vaccination rates are when we call red states, republican states, - vaccination rates are when we call red states, republican states, sol red states, republican states, so

the least — red states, republican states, so the least vaccinated _ red states, republican states, so the least vaccinated state - red states, republican states, so the least vaccinated state is- the least vaccinated state is alabama, _ the least vaccinated state is alabama, which _ the least vaccinated state is alabama, which voted - the least vaccinated state is. alabama, which voted heavily the least vaccinated state is- alabama, which voted heavily for donald _ alabama, which voted heavily for donald trumn _ alabama, which voted heavily for donald trump. it _ alabama, which voted heavily for donald trump. it has— alabama, which voted heavily for donald trump. it has about - alabama, which voted heavily for donald trump. it has about 40%| donald trump. it has about 40% vaccination — donald trump. it has about 40% vaccination rate _ donald trump. it has about 40% vaccination rate of— donald trump. it has about 40% vaccination rate of people - donald trump. it has about 40% vaccination rate of people aged. donald trump. it has about 40%i vaccination rate of people aged 12 or over. _ vaccination rate of people aged 12 or over, compared _ vaccination rate of people aged 12 or over, compared to— vaccination rate of people aged 12 or over, compared to vermont, . or over, compared to vermont, admittedly— or over, compared to vermont, admittedly a — or over, compared to vermont, admittedly a smaller— or over, compared to vermont, admittedly a smaller state - or over, compared to vermont, admittedly a smaller state up l or over, compared to vermont, | admittedly a smaller state up in or over, compared to vermont, - admittedly a smaller state up in new england. _ admittedly a smaller state up in new england. very— admittedly a smaller state up in new england, very liberal— admittedly a smaller state up in new england, very liberal state, - admittedly a smaller state up in new england, very liberal state, which. england, very liberal state, which has a _ england, very liberal state, which has a vaccination _ england, very liberal state, which has a vaccination rate _ england, very liberal state, which has a vaccination rate of- england, very liberal state, which has a vaccination rate of 77% - england, very liberal state, which has a vaccination rate of 77% fulll has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy— has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy teiis — has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy tells you _ has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy tells you the _ has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy tells you the us _ has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy tells you the us overall - has a vaccination rate of 77% full copy tells you the us overall is l copy tells you the us overall is such— copy tells you the us overall is such a — copy tells you the us overall is such a big _ copy tells you the us overall is such a big country _ copy tells you the us overall is such a big country is _ copy tells you the us overall is such a big country is a - copy tells you the us overall is such a big country is a mixed l such a big country is a mixed picture _ such a big country is a mixed picture right— such a big country is a mixed picture. right now— such a big country is a mixed picture. right now you - such a big country is a mixed picture. right now you havel such a big country is a mixed i picture. right now you have the delta _ picture. right now you have the delta variant _ picture. right now you have the delta variant surgeon, - picture. right now you have the delta variant surgeon, we - picture. right now you have the delta variant surgeon, we havel picture. right now you have the - delta variant surgeon, we have about more _ delta variant surgeon, we have about more than _ delta variant surgeon, we have about more than 70,000 _ delta variant surgeon, we have about more than 70,000 cases _ delta variant surgeon, we have about more than 70,000 cases being - more than 70,000 cases being registered _ more than 70,000 cases being registered a _ more than 70,000 cases being registered a day, _ more than 70,000 cases being registered a day, and - more than 70,000 cases being registered a day, and a - more than 70,000 cases being registered a day, and a third i more than 70,000 cases being registered a day, and a third of those _ registered a day, and a third of those this— registered a day, and a third of those this last _ registered a day, and a third of those this last week— registered a day, and a third of those this last week were - registered a day, and a third of those this last week were in i registered a day, and a third ofl those this last week were in just two states— those this last week were in just two states alone, _ those this last week were in just two states alone, florida - those this last week were in just two states alone, florida and i those this last week were in just - two states alone, florida and texas, where _ two states alone, florida and texas, where the _ two states alone, florida and texas, where the republican _ two states alone, florida and texas, where the republican governors - two states alone, florida and texas, i where the republican governors have decided _ where the republican governors have decided not _ where the republican governors have decided not to— where the republican governors have decided not to take _ where the republican governors have decided not to take more _ where the republican governors have decided not to take more active - decided not to take more active measures— decided not to take more active measures to _ decided not to take more active measures to try— decided not to take more active measures to try to _ decided not to take more active measures to try to suppress - decided not to take more activel measures to try to suppress that spread. _ measures to try to suppress that spread. there — measures to try to suppress that spread. there are _ measures to try to suppress that spread. there are very— measures to try to suppress that spread. there are very populous| spread. there are very populous states, — spread. there are very populous states, but— spread. there are very populous states, but my— spread. there are very populous states, but my own _ spread. there are very populous states, but my own state, - states, but my own state, california. _ states, but my own state, california, the _ states, but my own state, california, the most- states, but my own state, - california, the most populous state of all. _ california, the most populous state of all. has — california, the most populous state of all, has taken _ california, the most populous state of all, has taken more _ california, the most populous state of all, has taken more drastic- of all, has taken more drastic measures _ of all, has taken more drastic measures. they're _ of all, has taken more drastic measures. they're just - of all, has taken more drastic measures. they're just about| of all, has taken more drastic- measures. they're just about having masks _ measures. they're just about having masks on _ measures. they're just about having masks on indoors _ measures. they're just about having masks on indoors again _ measures. they're just about having masks on indoors again in— measures. they're just about having masks on indoors again in places - masks on indoors again in places like the — masks on indoors again in places like the bay— masks on indoors again in places like the bay area _ masks on indoors again in places like the bay area up _ masks on indoors again in places like the bay area up north- masks on indoors again in places like the bay area up north and i masks on indoors again in places like the bay area up north and inj like the bay area up north and in los angeles, _ like the bay area up north and in los angeles, that _ like the bay area up north and in los angeles, that has _ like the bay area up north and in los angeles, that has now- like the bay area up north and inl los angeles, that has now helped

tamp— los angeles, that has now helped tamp down— los angeles, that has now helped tamp down the _ los angeles, that has now helped tamp down the spread. _ los angeles, that has now helped tamp down the spread. there i los angeles, that has now helped tamp down the spread. there was los angeles, that has now helped i tamp down the spread. there was a mixed _ tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag — tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag in— tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag in the _ tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag in the us, _ tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag in the us, but— tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag in the us, but one - tamp down the spread. there was a mixed bag in the us, but one thingl mixed bag in the us, but one thing to remember— mixed bag in the us, but one thing to rememberwhen_ mixed bag in the us, but one thing to rememberwhen i— mixed bag in the us, but one thing to remember when i say— mixed bag in the us, but one thing to remember when i say there i mixed bag in the us, but one thing to remember when i say there arel to remember when i say there are 70,000— to remember when i say there are 70,000 new— to remember when i say there are 70,000 new cases _ to remember when i say there are 70,000 new cases per— to remember when i say there are 70,000 new cases per day, - to remember when i say there are 70,000 new cases per day, that's more _ 70,000 new cases per day, that's more than — 70,000 new cases per day, that's more than twice _ 70,000 new cases per day, that's more than twice what _ 70,000 new cases per day, that's more than twice what you - 70,000 new cases per day, that's more than twice what you have i 70,000 new cases per day, that's more than twice what you have in| more than twice what you have in britain _ more than twice what you have in britain but — more than twice what you have in britain but our— more than twice what you have in britain but our population - more than twice what you have in britain but our population is- more than twice what you have in britain but our population is five. britain but our population is five times— britain but our population is five times that — britain but our population is five times that of _ britain but our population is five times that of britain, _ britain but our population is five times that of britain, so - britain but our population is five times that of britain, so it's- times that of britain, so it's always— times that of britain, so it's always important— times that of britain, so it's always important to - times that of britain, so it's always important to keep i times that of britain, so it's- always important to keep numbers in mind, _ always important to keep numbers in mind, as— always important to keep numbers in mind, as damien— always important to keep numbers in mind, as damien was _ always important to keep numbers in mind, as damien was saying - always important to keep numbers in mind, as damien was saying about i mind, as damien was saying about china, _ mind, as damien was saying about china, the — mind, as damien was saying about china, the case _ mind, as damien was saying about china, the case as _ mind, as damien was saying about china, the case as there _ mind, as damien was saying about china, the case as there are - mind, as damien was saying about i china, the case as there are growing but there _ china, the case as there are growing but there are — china, the case as there are growing but there are still _ china, the case as there are growing but there are still minuscule - but there are still minuscule compared _ but there are still minuscule compared to— but there are still minuscule compared to countries - but there are still minuscule compared to countries in. but there are still minuscule | compared to countries in the but there are still minuscule - compared to countries in the west. what _ compared to countries in the west. what about— compared to countries in the west. what about this _ compared to countries in the west. what about this debate _ compared to countries in the west. what about this debate that - compared to countries in the west. what about this debate that tedros are braces, the firm open minister that runs the world health organization, warning of a uneven recovery, the rich world versus everybody else in terms of supply of virus, no sign of new capacity that was promised by the g7, no real signs of the global charter that borisjohnson said he wanted in place, and when tedros ghebreyesus says as he said this week that we

shouldn't be having booster vaccine, which the british are planning until poorer nations have vaccines, too, he gets a response like from the white house on friday, ned, it's a false choice and we can do both. well, they are plainly not doing both. i well, they are plainly not doing both. ~ ., well, they are plainly not doing both. ,, ., , well, they are plainly not doing both. ,, . , , both. i think that is true but i think it's _ both. i think that is true but i think it's a — both. i think that is true but i think it's a recognition - both. i think that is true but i think it's a recognition that i both. i think that is true but i l think it's a recognition that the political— think it's a recognition that the political pressure internationally will grow. i think with their reckoning on is not as the american government— reckoning on is not as the american government but governments in the developed _ government but governments in the developed world that are fortunate enough _ developed world that are fortunate enough to have the option, for instance. — enough to have the option, for instance, to consider blisters, is that their— instance, to consider blisters, is that their main political concern, 'ust that their main political concern, just immediately, its real politics, is the _ just immediately, its real politics, is the folks— just immediately, its real politics, is the folks at home. —— to consider boosters _ is the folks at home. —— to consider boosters and — is the folks at home. —— to consider boosters. and the priority is to try to keep _ boosters. and the priority is to try to keep them safe and reopen. i think— to keep them safe and reopen. i think what— to keep them safe and reopen. i think what will be interesting is to see the _ think what will be interesting is to see the degree in which america in particular— see the degree in which america in particular tries to take elite in really— particular tries to take elite in really ramping up production and

delivery— really ramping up production and delivery -- — really ramping up production and delivery —— take out lead in ramping up delivery —— take out lead in ramping up production and delivery to underdeveloped countries, because after all. _ underdeveloped countries, because after all, the biden administration's foreign policy mantra — administration's foreign policy mantra has been, america is back, we are in— mantra has been, america is back, we are in a _ mantra has been, america is back, we are in a kind _ mantra has been, america is back, we are in a kind of— mantra has been, america is back, we are in a kind of struggle between democracy and autocracy internationally and president biden sees america as reasserting democratic leadership. now, one traditional— democratic leadership. now, one traditional area where that used to be traditional area where that used to he done _ traditional area where that used to he done is — traditional area where that used to be done is in fact in vaccination for those — be done is in fact in vaccination for those of other diseases in africa — for those of other diseases in africa and _ for those of other diseases in africa and other, notjust, you know. — africa and other, notjust, you know. and _ africa and other, notjust, you know, and a recent presidents, but under— know, and a recent presidents, but under george w bush, for instance, with hiv _ under george w bush, for instance, with hiv medicines and inoculation. and i_ with hiv medicines and inoculation. and i think— with hiv medicines and inoculation. and i think the american administration will make a more visible _ administration will make a more visible effort in the weeks ahead to -et visible effort in the weeks ahead to get that— visible effort in the weeks ahead to get that done. i visible effort in the weeks ahead to get that done-—

get that done. i think there are vafious get that done. i think there are various next _ get that done. i think there are various next issues _ get that done. i think there are various next issues involved i get that done. i think there are i various next issues involved here, so ou do various next issues involved here, so you do have — various next issues involved here, so you do have an _ various next issues involved here, so you do have an uneven - so you do have an uneven distribution— so you do have an uneven distribution around - so you do have an uneven distribution around the i so you do have an uneven. distribution around the world so you do have an uneven- distribution around the world of vaccines— distribution around the world of vaccines that _ distribution around the world of vaccines that are _ distribution around the world of vaccines that are right - distribution around the world of vaccines that are right on - distribution around the world of vaccines that are right on the i distribution around the world of i vaccines that are right on the who says of— vaccines that are right on the who says of the — vaccines that are right on the who says of the doses _ vaccines that are right on the who says of the doses administered i vaccines that are right on the who says of the doses administered sol says of the doses administered so far, says of the doses administered so far. 80% — says of the doses administered so far. 80% of— says of the doses administered so far, 80% of them _ says of the doses administered so far, 80% of them have _ says of the doses administered so far, 80% of them have been- says of the doses administered so far, 80% of them have been in. far, 80% of them have been in countries — far, 80% of them have been in countries that— far, 80% of them have been in countries that are _ far, 80% of them have been in countries that are home - far, 80% of them have been in countries that are home to i far, 80% of them have been in| countries that are home to less far, 80% of them have been in- countries that are home to less than half of— countries that are home to less than half of the _ countries that are home to less than half of the population _ countries that are home to less than half of the population and _ countries that are home to less than half of the population and they i countries that are home to less than half of the population and they tend | half of the population and they tend to be wealthier— half of the population and they tend to be wealthier countries _ half of the population and they tend to be wealthier countries like - to be wealthier countries like britain — to be wealthier countries like britain and _ to be wealthier countries like britain and the _ to be wealthier countries like britain and the us _ to be wealthier countries like britain and the us was - to be wealthier countries like britain and the us was up. to be wealthier countries like britain and the us was up sol to be wealthier countries like i britain and the us was up so that to be wealthier countries like - britain and the us was up so that is absolutely— britain and the us was up so that is absolutely the _ britain and the us was up so that is absolutely the case _ britain and the us was up so that is absolutely the case and _ britain and the us was up so that is absolutely the case and you - britain and the us was up so that is absolutely the case and you have i britain and the us was up so that is. absolutely the case and you have the who chief _ absolutely the case and you have the who chief shifting _ absolutely the case and you have the who chief shifting his _ absolutely the case and you have the who chief shifting his red _ absolutely the case and you have the who chief shifting his red lines. i who chief shifting his red lines. because — who chief shifting his red lines. because if— who chief shifting his red lines. because if you _ who chief shifting his red lines. because if you remember, i who chief shifting his red lines. because if you remember, a i who chief shifting his red lines. | because if you remember, a few months — because if you remember, a few months ago. _ because if you remember, a few months ago, there _ because if you remember, a few months ago, there was - because if you remember, a few months ago, there was the i because if you remember, a few- months ago, there was the argument that no— months ago, there was the argument that no country— months ago, there was the argument that no country should _ months ago, there was the argument that no country should be _ that no country should be vaccinating _ that no country should be vaccinating youths, - that no country should be i vaccinating youths, vaccinating children — vaccinating youths, vaccinating children or— vaccinating youths, vaccinating children or teenagers, - vaccinating youths, vaccinating children or teenagers, until- vaccinating youths, vaccinating i children or teenagers, until adults were _ children or teenagers, until adults were vaccinated, _ children or teenagers, until adults were vaccinated, and _ children or teenagers, until adults were vaccinated, and now- children or teenagers, until adults were vaccinated, and now that i children or teenagers, until adultsj were vaccinated, and now that has shifted _ were vaccinated, and now that has shifted to, — were vaccinated, and now that has shifted to, there _ were vaccinated, and now that has shifted to, there shouldn't- were vaccinated, and now that has shifted to, there shouldn't be i were vaccinated, and now that has shifted to, there shouldn't be anyl shifted to, there shouldn't be any hooster— shifted to, there shouldn't be any booster shots, _ shifted to, there shouldn't be any booster shots, and _ shifted to, there shouldn't be any booster shots, and there - shifted to, there shouldn't be any booster shots, and there isn't i shifted to, there shouldn't be any. booster shots, and there isn't much more _ booster shots, and there isn't much more objection— booster shots, and there isn't much more objection being _ booster shots, and there isn't much more objection being made - booster shots, and there isn't much more objection being made to- booster shots, and there isn't much i more objection being made to younger people _ more objection being made to younger people getting — more objection being made to younger people getting vaccinated. _ more objection being made to younger people getting vaccinated. the - more objection being made to younger people getting vaccinated. the us, i. people getting vaccinated. the us, i think. _ people getting vaccinated. the us, i think. that _ people getting vaccinated. the us, i think. that as— people getting vaccinated. the us, i think, that as it _ people getting vaccinated. the us, i think, that as it is _ people getting vaccinated. the us, i think, that as it is stepping - people getting vaccinated. the us, i think, that as it is stepping up, i people getting vaccinated. the us, i think, that as it is stepping up, it i think, that as it is stepping up, it has delivered _ think, that as it is stepping up, it has delivered about _ think, that as it is stepping up, it has delivered about 100 - think, that as it is stepping up, it has delivered about 100 million l has delivered about 100 million doses— has delivered about 100 million doses to — has delivered about 100 million doses to over— has delivered about 100 million doses to over 60 _ has delivered about 100 million doses to over 60 countries, i has delivered about 100 million| doses to over 60 countries, and biden— doses to over 60 countries, and biden has— doses to over 60 countries, and biden has said _ doses to over 60 countries, and biden has said there _ doses to over 60 countries, and biden has said there will- doses to over 60 countries, and biden has said there will be i doses to over 60 countries, and biden has said there will be a i biden has said there will be a pledge — biden has said there will be a pledge of— biden has said there will be a pledge of l _ biden has said there will be a pledge of1 billion. _ biden has said there will be a pledge of1 billion. today- biden has said there will be a pledge of1 billion. today youi biden has said there will be a - pledge of1 billion. today you heard china _ pledge of1 billion. today you heard china saying — pledge of1 billion. today you heard china saying they— pledge of1 billion. today you heard china saying they are _ pledge of1 billion. today you heard china saying they are going - pledge of1 billion. today you heard china saying they are going to - china saying they are going to supply— china saying they are going to supply 2— china saying they are going to supply 2 billion _ china saying they are going to supply 2 billion doses. - china saying they are going to supply 2 billion doses. it's - china saying they are going toi supply 2 billion doses. it's not 'ust supply 2 billion doses. it's not just about _ supply 2 billion doses. it's not just about supply. _ supply 2 billion doses. it's not just about supply, though. - supply 2 billion doses. it's noti

just about supply, though. it's supply 2 billion doses. it's not - just about supply, though. it's also about— just about supply, though. it's also about distribution, _ just about supply, though. it's also about distribution, and _ just about supply, though. it's also about distribution, and so - just about supply, though. it's also about distribution, and so covax, l about distribution, and so covax, the consortium _ about distribution, and so covax, the consortium that _ about distribution, and so covax, the consortium that is— about distribution, and so covax, the consortium that is supposedl about distribution, and so covax, i the consortium that is supposed to help get— the consortium that is supposed to help get these _ the consortium that is supposed to help get these shots _ the consortium that is supposed to help get these shots in _ the consortium that is supposed to help get these shots in arms - the consortium that is supposed to help get these shots in arms in - the consortium that is supposed to. help get these shots in arms in poor countries _ help get these shots in arms in poor countries around _ help get these shots in arms in poor countries around the _ help get these shots in arms in poor countries around the world, - countries around the world, particularly, _ countries around the world, particularly, it's— countries around the world, particularly, it's not- countries around the world, particularly, it's notjust - countries around the world, i particularly, it's notjust about getting — particularly, it's notjust about getting those _ particularly, it's notjust about getting those vaccines - particularly, it's notjust about getting those vaccines over. particularly, it's not just about - getting those vaccines over there. you have — getting those vaccines over there. you have countries— getting those vaccines over there. you have countries where - getting those vaccines over there. | you have countries where vaccines are going. — you have countries where vaccines are going. spoiling _ you have countries where vaccines are going, spoiling because - you have countries where vaccines are going, spoiling because they. are going, spoiling because they haven't— are going, spoiling because they haven't been— are going, spoiling because they haven't been administered - are going, spoiling because they. haven't been administered quickly enough. _ haven't been administered quickly enough. there— haven't been administered quickly enough, there hasn't— haven't been administered quickly enough, there hasn't been- haven't been administered quickly| enough, there hasn't been enough training _ enough, there hasn't been enough training of— enough, there hasn't been enough training of people _ enough, there hasn't been enough training of people to— enough, there hasn't been enough training of people to inoculate - training of people to inoculate folks — training of people to inoculate folks in — training of people to inoculate folks in their— training of people to inoculate folks in their constituencies. l training of people to inoculate i folks in their constituencies. so training of people to inoculate . folks in their constituencies. so it isn't _ folks in their constituencies. so it isn't purely— folks in their constituencies. so it isn't purely a _ folks in their constituencies. so it isn't purely a matter— folks in their constituencies. so it isn't purely a matter of— folks in their constituencies. so it isn't purely a matter of supply - folks in their constituencies. so it isn't purely a matter of supply at i isn't purely a matter of supply at this point — isn't purely a matter of supply at this oint. .,, ., isn't purely a matter of supply at this oint. ., ., this point. damien, lost out on that? to pick _ this point. damien, lost out on that? to pick up _ this point. damien, lost out on that? to pick up on _ this point. damien, lost out on that? to pick up on two - this point. damien, lost out on that? to pick up on two of - this point. damien, lost out on | that? to pick up on two of those thins, that? to pick up on two of those things. henry — that? to pick up on two of those things, henry was _ that? to pick up on two of those things, henry was saying - that? to pick up on two of those things, henry was saying about | things, henry was saying about uneven distribution, because here in the uk you do see, the government has put many of its eggs in this vaccine basket. this is a big success for the government. they rode it out, as you say, they are talking now of bringing the vaccines down to 16—year—olds and 17—year—olds, already planning third shots later in the year, so a lot of success here but the uk hasn't been exporting vaccines most of it is

donated a very small amount in the last few days, i think 400,000 went to kenya, but kenya has a population of i think 50 million, has had 1.5 million doses, less than 1% fully vaccinated. look at other poor countries, yemen, south sudan, 0% fully vaccinated. so what we are seeing is the entrenchment of these sort of differences, the distinctions between rich and poor, but also that political narrative. so china, the president xijinping was talking about the success of the chinese system, how valuable and how much better it had reacted. china is on this huge drive to vaccinate from almost a standing start in march, they have done 1.7 billion doses, 17 million a day going out now. that means that china is not exporting at the minute to other countries and also, china is again finding its the minute to other countries and also, china is againfinding its in also, china is againfinding its in a difficult position because it is going to see other western countries starting to open up and these political questions will then come

back, i think, political questions will then come back, ithink, but political questions will then come back, i think, but which actually is the best approach.— the best approach. fascinating stuff. thank _ the best approach. fascinating stuff. thank you _ the best approach. fascinating stuff. thank you all _ the best approach. fascinating stuff. thank you all very - the best approach. fascinating| stuff. thank you all very much. in afghanistan, the departure of foreign troops appears to have heralded not an afghan army able to defend itself and its people, but the return of the taliban — further and faster, one former un official told me this week, than most had predicted. the assassination friday of a chief government spokesperson and the seizing of original capital ship security in a country that has never really recovered from the war. ashraf ghani said he could but the taliban in six months. has he got six weeks? someone who was there in the early 2000 was saying to me this week the taliban has moved further and faster than anyone had predicted they would. i and faster than anyone had predicted the would. ~ . �* , ., they would. i think that's right and whether this _ they would. i think that's right and

whether this plan _ they would. i think that's right and whether this plan is _ they would. i think that's right and whether this plan is workable - they would. i think that's right and whether this plan is workable or i whether this plan is workable or exists, it kind of resonates from the old vietnam war days in which there is always a secret american plan to get out of the war, to win the war, and i think this will be seen with some scepticism. it is true the situation on the ground is fluid, but the flue is so far in the one direction and that's in the favour of the taliban. i think if there is a break or if it is diverted somehow and we stop short of a kind of full skinless salt on some of these provincial capitals, —— full scale assault, it will be on the impact the afghan government forces. it will depend on other things, the americans, who in theory are going to be out completely by august 31. but in the last few days when instance they have been stepping up air strikes in defence of the government forces. and perhaps most fascinatingly and

importantly, as a regional powers. and for them, it's almost a situation of kind of be careful what you wish for because they've all been quite vocal at critical of america's presence in afghanistan, and the nato allies' presence in afghanistan over the last 20 years. but i think the speed and abruptness of the total american withdrawal has left a vacuum that each for their own reasons is concerned about. i own reasons is concerned about. i want to talk a bit about what neighbouring countries do, the dilemma they face in a moment. but, henry, before we do that, it sounded slightly ludicrous to say, i've got a six month plan, but might he have a six month plan, but might he have a point? could it be that traditional saviour of embattled afghan governments, the winter, that actually forestall is any full of this government? in actually forestall is any full of this government?— actually forestall is any full of this government? ,. , , ., �* this government? in the past, you've seen fighting — this government? in the past, you've seen fighting dwindle _ this government? in the past, you've seen fighting dwindle during - this government? in the past, you've seen fighting dwindle during the - seen fighting dwindle during the very. _ seen fighting dwindle during the very. very— seen fighting dwindle during the

very. very cold _ seen fighting dwindle during the very, very cold winter _ seen fighting dwindle during the very, very cold winter months i seen fighting dwindle during the i very, very cold winter months but seen fighting dwindle during the - very, very cold winter months but is not and _ very, very cold winter months but is not and you — very, very cold winter months but is not and you yourself— very, very cold winter months but is not and you yourself mentioned, . very, very cold winter months but is| not and you yourself mentioned, the speed _ not and you yourself mentioned, the speed at— not and you yourself mentioned, the speed at which — not and you yourself mentioned, the speed at which the _ not and you yourself mentioned, the speed at which the taliban _ not and you yourself mentioned, the speed at which the taliban is - not and you yourself mentioned, the speed at which the taliban is now. speed at which the taliban is now galloping — speed at which the taliban is now galloping towards _ speed at which the taliban is now galloping towards major - speed at which the taliban is now. galloping towards major population centres _ galloping towards major population centres like — galloping towards major population centres like kandahar and - galloping towards major population centres like kandahar and now- galloping towards major population| centres like kandahar and now even mounting _ centres like kandahar and now even mounting attacks, _ centres like kandahar and now even mounting attacks, as _ centres like kandahar and now even mounting attacks, as it— centres like kandahar and now even mounting attacks, as it has- centres like kandahar and now even mounting attacks, as it has i- centres like kandahar and now even mounting attacks, as it has i was. mounting attacks, as it has i was been _ mounting attacks, as it has i was been doing — mounting attacks, as it has i was been doing but— mounting attacks, as it has i was been doing but even— mounting attacks, as it has i was been doing but even more - been doing but even more high-profile _ been doing but even more high—profile ones - been doing but even more high—profile ones in - been doing but even morei high—profile ones in kabul, been doing but even more i high—profile ones in kabul, is really— high—profile ones in kabul, is really quite _ high—profile ones in kabul, is really quite staggering. - high—profile ones in kabul, is really quite staggering. so i high—profile ones in kabul, isi really quite staggering. so the high—profile ones in kabul, is - really quite staggering. so the idea of having _ really quite staggering. so the idea of having six — really quite staggering. so the idea of having six months— really quite staggering. so the idea of having six months to _ really quite staggering. so the idea of having six months to wait - of having six months to wait actually _ of having six months to wait actually rout _ of having six months to wait actually rout the _ of having six months to wait actually rout the taliban - of having six months to wait i actually rout the taliban think ntight— actually rout the taliban think might be _ actually rout the taliban think might be a _ actually rout the taliban think might be a pipe— actually rout the taliban think might be a pipe dream. - actually rout the taliban think might be a pipe dream. we . actually rout the taliban think. might be a pipe dream. we are already— might be a pipe dream. we are already seeing _ might be a pipe dream. we are already seeing a— might be a pipe dream. we are already seeing a provincial- might be a pipe dream. we are i already seeing a provincial capital full, as— already seeing a provincial capital full, as you — already seeing a provincial capital full, as you mention. _ already seeing a provincial capital full, as you mention. various- full, as you mention. various crossing _ full, as you mention. various crossing points— full, as you mention. various crossing points and _ full, as you mention. various crossing points and other- full, as you mention. various- crossing points and other countries, such as _ crossing points and other countries, such as pakistan _ crossing points and other countries, such as pakistan and _ crossing points and other countries, such as pakistan and iran, - crossing points and other countries, such as pakistan and iran, now- such as pakistan and iran, now controlled _ such as pakistan and iran, now controlled by— such as pakistan and iran, now controlled by the _ such as pakistan and iran, now controlled by the taliban - such as pakistan and iran, now controlled by the taliban foot i such as pakistan and iran, nowi controlled by the taliban foot of and increasingly, _ controlled by the taliban foot of and increasingly, if— controlled by the taliban foot of and increasingly, if some - controlled by the taliban foot of and increasingly, if some of- controlled by the taliban foot of and increasingly, if some of the| and increasingly, if some of the provincial— and increasingly, if some of the provincial capitals— and increasingly, if some of the provincial capitals and - and increasingly, if some of the provincial capitals and couple i provincial capitals and couple itself — provincial capitals and couple itself are _ provincial capitals and couple itself are able _ provincial capitals and couple itself are able to _ provincial capitals and couple itself are able to hold - provincial capitals and couple itself are able to hold out, i provincial capitals and couple . itself are able to hold out, what you will— itself are able to hold out, what you will have _ itself are able to hold out, what you will have are _ itself are able to hold out, what you will have are simply- itself are able to hold out, what you will have are simply islandsj itself are able to hold out, what i you will have are simply islands of government— you will have are simply islands of government control— you will have are simply islands of government control but _ you will have are simply islands of government control but then - you will have are simply islands of. government control but then again, they could — government control but then again, they could be — government control but then again, they could be placated _ government control but then again, they could be placated by— government control but then again, they could be placated by the - government control but then again, they could be placated by the rest. they could be placated by the rest of the _ they could be placated by the rest of the taliban, _ they could be placated by the rest of the taliban, the _ they could be placated by the rest of the taliban, the country- they could be placated by the rest of the taliban, the country being i of the taliban, the country being under— of the taliban, the country being under the — of the taliban, the country being under the taliban's— of the taliban, the country being under the taliban's some. - of the taliban, the country being under the taliban's some. —— - of the taliban, the country being i under the taliban's some. —— they could _ under the taliban's some. —— they could be _ under the taliban's some. —— they could be blockaded. _ under the taliban's some. —— they could be blockaded. i— under the taliban's some. —— they could be blockaded. ithink- under the taliban's some. —— they could be blockaded. i think the . under the taliban's some. —— they. could be blockaded. ithink the idea of six _ could be blockaded. ithink the idea of six months. _ could be blockaded. ithink the idea of six months, half _ could be blockaded. ithink the idea of six months, half a _ could be blockaded. ithink the idea of six months, half a year, - could be blockaded. ithink the idea of six months, half a year, that - of six months, half a year, that could _ of six months, half a year, that could change _ of six months, half a year, that could change during _ of six months, half a year, that could change during that- of six months, half a year, that could change during that time i of six months, half a year, that. could change during that time but of six months, half a year, that - could change during that time but i don't _ could change during that time but i don't think— could change during that time but i don't think what _ could change during that time but i don't think what we _ could change during that time but i don't think what we are _ could change during that time but i don't think what we are seeing - could change during that time but ii don't think what we are seeing right now, _ don't think what we are seeing right now. if— don't think what we are seeing right now. ifthat's— don't think what we are seeing right now, if that's any _ don't think what we are seeing right now, if that's any sign _ don't think what we are seeing right now, if that's any sign of _ don't think what we are seeing right now, if that's any sign of the - don't think what we are seeing right now, if that's any sign of the trend. now, if that's any sign of the trend that will— now, if that's any sign of the trend that will be — now, if that's any sign of the trend

that will be going _ now, if that's any sign of the trend that will be going all _ now, if that's any sign of the trend that will be going all over- now, if that's any sign of the trend that will be going all over the - now, if that's any sign of the trend that will be going all over the nextj that will be going all over the next couple _ that will be going all over the next couple of— that will be going all over the next couple of months, _ that will be going all over the next couple of months, i— that will be going all over the next couple of months, i don't - that will be going all over the next couple of months, i don't think- that will be going all over the next. couple of months, i don't think that president _ couple of months, i don't think that president ghani _ couple of months, i don't think that president ghani actually _ couple of months, i don't think that president ghani actually has - couple of months, i don't think that president ghani actually has that. l couple of months, i don't think that president ghani actually has that. i | president ghani actually has that. i think— president ghani actually has that. i think the _ president ghani actually has that. i think the us — president ghani actually has that. i think the us realises _ president ghani actually has that. i think the us realises this _ president ghani actually has that. i think the us realises this now. - president ghani actually has that. i think the us realises this now. i. think the us realises this now. i mean. — think the us realises this now. i mean. they— think the us realises this now. i mean. theyare _ think the us realises this now. i mean, they are seeing - think the us realises this now. i mean, they are seeing the - mean, they are seeing the consequence _ mean, they are seeing the consequence of— mean, they are seeing the consequence of having - mean, they are seeing the - consequence of having enhanced almost _ consequence of having enhanced almost without _ consequence of having enhanced almost without notifying - consequence of having enhanced almost without notifying nato i consequence of having enhancedi almost without notifying nato and some _ almost without notifying nato and some of— almost without notifying nato and some of the — almost without notifying nato and some of the other— almost without notifying nato and some of the other allies _ almost without notifying nato and some of the other allies that - almost without notifying nato and some of the other allies that they| some of the other allies that they were _ some of the other allies that they were going — some of the other allies that they were going to— some of the other allies that they were going to pull— some of the other allies that they were going to pull out— some of the other allies that they were going to pull out by- some of the other allies that they. were going to pull out by september 11 to were going to pull out by september ii to was— were going to pull out by september ii to was the — were going to pull out by september 11 to was the original _ were going to pull out by september 11 to was the original deadline, - were going to pull out by september 11 to was the original deadline, it - 11 to was the original deadline, it put everybody _ 11 to was the original deadline, it put everybody on _ 11 to was the original deadline, it put everybody on the _ 11 to was the original deadline, it put everybody on the hop. - 11 to was the original deadline, it put everybody on the hop. i - 11 to was the original deadline, it| put everybody on the hop. i think there _ put everybody on the hop. i think there are — put everybody on the hop. i think there are perhaps— put everybody on the hop. i think there are perhaps realising - put everybody on the hop. i think there are perhaps realising that i there are perhaps realising that some _ there are perhaps realising that some continued _ there are perhaps realising that some continued our— there are perhaps realising that some continued our support- there are perhaps realising that| some continued our support will there are perhaps realising that - some continued our support will be necessary. — some continued our support will be necessary. but _ some continued our support will be necessary, but the _ some continued our support will be necessary, but the idea _ some continued our support will be necessary, but the idea of- some continued our support will be necessary, but the idea of boots i necessary, but the idea of boots back— necessary, but the idea of boots back on— necessary, but the idea of boots back on the _ necessary, but the idea of boots back on the ground, _ necessary, but the idea of boots back on the ground, that's - necessary, but the idea of boots back on the ground, that's not l necessary, but the idea of boots - back on the ground, that's not going to happen _ back on the ground, that's not going to happen -- — back on the ground, that's not going to happen. —— continued _ back on the ground, that's not going to happen. —— continued air- back on the ground, that's not going to happen. —— continued air super. l to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately— to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately i _ to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately i think _ to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately i think we _ to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately i think we will - to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately i think we will see i to happen. —— continued air super. unfortunately i think we will see a| unfortunately i think we will see a taliban— unfortunately i think we will see a taliban over — unfortunately i think we will see a taliban overan_ unfortunately i think we will see a taliban overan earlier— unfortunately i think we will see a taliban over an earlier than - unfortunately i think we will see a . taliban over an earlier than anybody expected _ taliban over an earlier than anybody exected. . ,. �* taliban over an earlier than anybody exected. . �* ,, expected. damian, you've spent some ears expected. damian, you've spent some years covering — expected. damian, you've spent some years covering the _ expected. damian, you've spent some years covering the afghanistan - years covering the afghanistan story, you've been into the country a number of times, you've seen this unfold over a 20 year period. it's not surprising, is it, that other countries like pakistan, turkmenistan, are making a calculation, saying it's time to cosy up to the taliban because they could be in power very soon? i

cosy up to the taliban because they could be in power very soon? i think hen and could be in power very soon? i think henry and l— could be in power very soon? i think henry and l were — could be in power very soon? i think henry and i were both _ could be in power very soon? i think henry and i were both in _ could be in power very soon? i think henry and i were both in south - could be in power very soon? i think henry and i were both in south asia | henry and i were both in south asia and watching the situation at a similar time. and watching the situation at a similartime. it's and watching the situation at a similar time. it's very, and watching the situation at a similartime. it's very, pakistan, of course, has always had a very, very close relationship and ties with the taliban, using pakistani areas as sort of rear bases, that has always been a big part of the calculation. india is a big player in this, as well. china, with its border with afghanistan, obviously that's the region of xinjiang, where china has that huge, add the mint, that policy, the very repressive policy inactionjanko is the minute, that policy. —— that repressive policy in changing at the minute. so you have players looking at this, and western countries, too. but i would say it's very difficult, actually, to call how this will play out because afghanistan has always had these very sort of grinding,

complex patchwork of conflicts in relationships. find complex patchwork of conflicts in relationships.— complex patchwork of conflicts in relationships. and no government that has ever _ relationships. and no government that has ever truly _ relationships. and no government that has ever truly controlled - relationships. and no government that has ever truly controlled the l that has ever truly controlled the country, yet so many regional power players. i country, yet so many regional power -la ers. , ., players. i went there when you saw the taliban. — players. i went there when you saw the taliban, their _ players. i went there when you saw the taliban, their resurgence - players. i went there when you saw. the taliban, their resurgence coming back after we'd had september 11, 2001, sort of later, 2006, 2007, 2008, the taliban came back of foreign forces went in, they're in the south new kandahar, the canadians, they had their operation there and went clear an area, and you saw on the ground, how hard it was even for a major western military, they had satellite photographs, daily planning, moving forward inch by inch, even that took weeks to dislodge the taliban. they left and they came back, snuck back into districts, targeted with explosives, suicide bombers, killed local officials working with the government, we are seeing a similar thing again. it's very difficult, even with all of that military backing, for a central of the to

control power. but at the same time you have a patchwork, and we still look at the very tribal look affiliations, that makes it difficult, the taliban is not one thing, it's a local affiliation, money plays a part, power plays a part, so for them to mount a coordinated response is also a difficult thing. i think what we are likely to see is this grinding on and we see these assassinations, the government spokesperson today, we have had a high profile academic, a comic, journalists... the have had a high profile academic, a comic, journalists. . ._ comic, journalists... the defence minister earlier _ comic, journalists... the defence minister earlier in _ comic, journalists... the defence minister earlier in the _ comic, journalists... the defence minister earlier in the week. - comic, journalists... the defence minister earlier in the week. and | comic, journalists... the defence | minister earlier in the week. and i think the most _ minister earlier in the week. and i think the most likely _ minister earlier in the week. and i think the most likely thing - minister earlier in the week. and i think the most likely thing is - think the most likely thing is civilians, i think 1000 deaths, the un is being told today, 1000 deaths in the last few weeks. civilians with the coat in the brunt of this, and it is a very messy picture that could play out for a long time. henry, a last thought on this, if i may. ned said earlier, america is

back, that is the biden rhetoric. afghans aren't seen in america is back, they'rejust afghans aren't seen in america is back, they're just seeing america afghans aren't seen in america is back, they'rejust seeing america is back, they'rejust seeing america is back, it raises questions about what that means was a are seeing america's back. i that means was a are seeing america's back.— that means was a are seeing america's back. ~ . �* america's back. i think what biden meant by the _ america's back. i think what biden meant by the makka _ america's back. i think what biden meant by the makka being - america's back. i think what biden meant by the makka being back. america's back. i think what bidenj meant by the makka being back as it's back— meant by the makka being back as it's back with— meant by the makka being back as it's back with its _ meant by the makka being back as it's back with its allies, _ meant by the makka being back as it's back with its allies, the - it's back with its allies, the powers— it's back with its allies, the powers that _ it's back with its allies, the powers that had _ it's back with its allies, the powers that had counted . it's back with its allies, the| powers that had counted on it's back with its allies, the - powers that had counted on us support— powers that had counted on us support and _ powers that had counted on us support and backing _ powers that had counted on us| support and backing throughout powers that had counted on us - support and backing throughout these many decades. — support and backing throughout these many decades, particularly— support and backing throughout these many decades, particularly in - support and backing throughout these many decades, particularly in europe i many decades, particularly in europe but also _ many decades, particularly in europe but also asia. — many decades, particularly in europe but also asia, that _ many decades, particularly in europe but also asia, that they— many decades, particularly in europe but also asia, that they could - many decades, particularly in europe but also asia, that they could once . but also asia, that they could once again— but also asia, that they could once again cut _ but also asia, that they could once again cut on — but also asia, that they could once again cut on the _ but also asia, that they could once again cut on the us— but also asia, that they could once again cut on the us to _ but also asia, that they could once again cut on the us to be - but also asia, that they could once again cut on the us to be by- but also asia, that they could once again cut on the us to be by their. again cut on the us to be by their size but— again cut on the us to be by their size but this _ again cut on the us to be by their size but this is _ again cut on the us to be by their size but this is bitterly— again cut on the us to be by their size but this is bitterly ironic- again cut on the us to be by their size but this is bitterly ironic in i size but this is bitterly ironic in showing — size but this is bitterly ironic in showing that _ size but this is bitterly ironic in showing that when _ size but this is bitterly ironic in showing that when america - size but this is bitterly ironic in. showing that when america acts unilaterally. _ showing that when america acts unilaterally, which— showing that when america acts unilaterally, which it _ showing that when america acts unilaterally, which it practicallyi unilaterally, which it practically did in— unilaterally, which it practically did in announcing _ unilaterally, which it practically did in announcing it _ unilaterally, which it practically did in announcing it was - unilaterally, which it practically did in announcing it was goingl unilaterally, which it practically. did in announcing it was going to pull out — did in announcing it was going to pull out of— did in announcing it was going to pull out of afghanistan _ did in announcing it was going to pull out of afghanistan without l pull out of afghanistan without really — pull out of afghanistan without really consulting _ pull out of afghanistan without really consulting nato - pull out of afghanistan without really consulting nato very - pull out of afghanistan without i really consulting nato very well, that also — really consulting nato very well, that also causes _ really consulting nato very well, that also causes ructions - really consulting nato very well, that also causes ructions and - that also causes ructions and unfortunately— that also causes ructions and unfortunately that's- that also causes ructions and unfortunately that's playing i that also causes ructions and | unfortunately that's playing it that also causes ructions and - unfortunately that's playing it on the ground — unfortunately that's playing it on the ground in— unfortunately that's playing it on the ground in afghanistan. - unfortunately that's playing it on the ground in afghanistan. and i the ground in afghanistan. and damian— the ground in afghanistan. and damian grammaticas _ the ground in afghanistan. andl damian grammaticas mentioned civilians — damian grammaticas mentioned civilians being _ damian grammaticas mentioned civilians being caught _ damian grammaticas mentioned civilians being caught out - damian grammaticas mentioned civilians being caught out in - damian grammaticas mentioned civilians being caught out in the| civilians being caught out in the middle. — civilians being caught out in the middle. we _ civilians being caught out in the middle, we have _ civilians being caught out in the middle, we have a _ civilians being caught out in the middle, we have a busy- civilians being caught out in the middle, we have a busy talk- civilians being caught out in the i middle, we have a busy talk about the battle — middle, we have a busy talk about the battle for— middle, we have a busy talk about the battle for hearts _ middle, we have a busy talk about the battle for hearts and _ middle, we have a busy talk about the battle for hearts and minds, . middle, we have a busy talk about l the battle for hearts and minds, and from all— the battle for hearts and minds, and from all of— the battle for hearts and minds, and from all of the — the battle for hearts and minds, and from all of the reporting _ the battle for hearts and minds, and from all of the reporting our- the battle for hearts and minds, and from all of the reporting our own - from all of the reporting our own correspondence _ from all of the reporting our own correspondence at _ from all of the reporting our own correspondence at the _ from all of the reporting our own correspondence at the la - from all of the reporting our own correspondence at the la times| from all of the reporting our own| correspondence at the la times i

done _ correspondence at the la times i done out — correspondence at the la times i done out there, _ correspondence at the la times i done out there, it's _ correspondence at the la times i done out there, it's a _ correspondence at the la times i done out there, it's a populace . correspondence at the la times i. done out there, it's a populace that has itself— done out there, it's a populace that has itself been _ done out there, it's a populace that has itself been ground _ done out there, it's a populace that has itself been ground down - done out there, it's a populace that has itself been ground down in- done out there, it's a populace that has itself been ground down in this| has itself been ground down in this grinding _ has itself been ground down in this grinding war. — has itself been ground down in this grinding war. and _ has itself been ground down in this grinding war, and they— has itself been ground down in this grinding war, and they are - has itself been ground down in this grinding war, and they are totally i grinding war, and they are totally exhausted — grinding war, and they are totally exhausted by— grinding war, and they are totally exhausted by the _ grinding war, and they are totally exhausted by the conflict - grinding war, and they are totally exhausted by the conflict and - grinding war, and they are totally exhausted by the conflict and are| exhausted by the conflict and are looking _ exhausted by the conflict and are looking to — exhausted by the conflict and are looking to any _ exhausted by the conflict and are looking to any parent _ exhausted by the conflict and are looking to any parent now, - exhausted by the conflict and are looking to any parent now, with i exhausted by the conflict and are i looking to any parent now, with the us or— looking to any parent now, with the us or the _ looking to any parent now, with the us or the taliban, _ looking to any parent now, with the us or the taliban, who _ looking to any parent now, with the us or the taliban, who can- looking to any parent now, with the us or the taliban, who can restorei us or the taliban, who can restore some _ us or the taliban, who can restore some form — us or the taliban, who can restore some form of— us or the taliban, who can restore some form of stability _ us or the taliban, who can restore some form of stability and - us or the taliban, who can restore some form of stability and order. i us or the taliban, who can restore i some form of stability and order. —— any power. — some form of stability and order. —— any power. now _ some form of stability and order. —— any power, now. and _ some form of stability and order. —— any power, now. and i— some form of stability and order. —— any power, now. and i think- some form of stability and order. —— any power, now. and i think that's. any power, now. and i think that's what _ any power, now. and i think that's what the _ any power, now. and i think that's what the candidate _ any power, now. and i think that's what the candidate as _ any power, now. and i think that's what the candidate as we - any power, now. and i think that's what the candidate as we go - any power, now. and i think that's what the candidate as we go into i any power, now. and i think that's. what the candidate as we go into the next few _ what the candidate as we go into the next few months. _ what the candidate as we go into the next few months. —— _ what the candidate as we go into the next few months. —— that _ what the candidate as we go into the next few months. —— that is- what the candidate as we go into the next few months. —— that is not- what the candidate as we go into the next few months. —— that is not to l next few months. —— that is not to be counted — next few months. —— that is not to be counted out— next few months. —— that is not to be counted out as _ next few months. —— that is not to be counted out as we _ next few months. —— that is not to be counted out as we go _ next few months. —— that is not to be counted out as we go into- next few months. —— that is not to be counted out as we go into the i be counted out as we go into the next _ be counted out as we go into the next few — be counted out as we go into the next few months. _ let's devote the last few minutes to the stories you think we should know more about. and start off with you, ned. i would like to talk about _ and start off with you, ned. i would like to talk about two _ and start off with you, ned. i would like to talk about two countries, - like to talk about two countries, both _ like to talk about two countries, both of — like to talk about two countries, both of which are undergoing a particularly difficult time. one is particularly difficult time. 0ne is myanmar— particularly difficult time. one is myanmar and the other is lebanon, which _ myanmar and the other is lebanon, which has _ myanmar and the other is lebanon, which has a — myanmar and the other is lebanon, which has a particular place in my journalistic— which has a particular place in my journalistic heart because one of my firstiobs_ journalistic heart because one of my firstjobs was covering journalistic heart because one of my first jobs was covering the lebanese civil war— first jobs was covering the lebanese civil war in _ first jobs was covering the lebanese civil war in the late 70s, and i had

lots of— civil war in the late 70s, and i had lots of dear— civil war in the late 70s, and i had lots of dear friends that are still there _ lots of dear friends that are still there it — lots of dear friends that are still there. it will not have escaped any of us _ there. it will not have escaped any of us that— there. it will not have escaped any of us that there has been a fair amount— of us that there has been a fair amount of— of us that there has been a fair amount of coverage in these past few days of— amount of coverage in these past few days of both myanmar and the military— days of both myanmar and the military dictatorship there, and the situation _ military dictatorship there, and the situation in — military dictatorship there, and the situation in lebanon one year after that terrible explosion in beirut port~ _ that terrible explosion in beirut port~ but— that terrible explosion in beirut port. but in both cases, the coverage _ port. but in both cases, the coverage has been kind of a result of the _ coverage has been kind of a result of the calendar, and i suppose my concern _ of the calendar, and i suppose my concern is. — of the calendar, and i suppose my concern is, what happens once this counter— concern is, what happens once this counter tips— concern is, what happens once this counter tips over the next day and the next _ counter tips over the next day and the next week? do we risk forgetting about— the next week? do we risk forgetting about the _ the next week? do we risk forgetting about the terribly difficult situation in both countries? thank ou. situation in both countries? thank you- henry? _ situation in both countries? thank you- henry? just— situation in both countries? thank you. henry? just look— situation in both countries? thank you. henry? just look at - situation in both countries? thank you. henry? just look at the - you. henry? just look at the coverage — you. henry? just look at the coverage we _ you. henry? just look at the coverage we have _ you. henry? just look at the coverage we have had - you. henry? just look at the coverage we have had over. you. henry? just look at the i coverage we have had over the you. henry? just look at the - coverage we have had over the last few weeks — coverage we have had over the last few weeks on— coverage we have had over the last few weeks on climate _ coverage we have had over the last few weeks on climate change - coverage we have had over the last few weeks on climate change and l few weeks on climate change and climate _ few weeks on climate change and climate disaster— few weeks on climate change and climate disaster around _ few weeks on climate change and climate disaster around the - few weeks on climate change andi climate disaster around the world, we are _ climate disaster around the world, we are really— climate disaster around the world, we are really realising _ climate disaster around the world, we are really realising it's - climate disaster around the world, we are really realising it's hitting l we are really realising it's hitting rich countries, _ we are really realising it's hitting rich countries, as _ we are really realising it's hitting rich countries, as somebody - we are really realising it's hitting rich countries, as somebody i. we are really realising it's hitting l rich countries, as somebody i once spoke _ rich countries, as somebody i once spoke to— rich countries, as somebody i once spoke to said. _ rich countries, as somebody i once spoke to said, it's— rich countries, as somebody i once spoke to said, it's a _ rich countries, as somebody i once spoke to said, it's a rich— rich countries, as somebody i once spoke to said, it's a rich country. spoke to said, it's a rich country problem — spoke to said, it's a rich country problem now— spoke to said, it's a rich country problem now in— spoke to said, it's a rich country problem now in the _ spoke to said, it's a rich country problem now in the way- spoke to said, it's a rich country problem now in the way it - spoke to said, it's a rich country. problem now in the way it perhaps hadn't _ problem now in the way it perhaps hadn't been — problem now in the way it perhaps hadn't been in _ problem now in the way it perhaps hadn't been in countries _ problem now in the way it perhaps hadn't been in countries like - hadn't been in countries like canada. _ hadn't been in countries like canada. the _ hadn't been in countries like canada, the us, _ hadn't been in countries like canada, the us, germany, i hadn't been in countries like - canada, the us, germany, before.

hadn't been in countries like _ canada, the us, germany, before. but now we _ canada, the us, germany, before. but now we are _ canada, the us, germany, before. but now we are seeing _ canada, the us, germany, before. but now we are seeing catastrophic- now we are seeing catastrophic floods— now we are seeing catastrophic floods in— now we are seeing catastrophic floods in central— now we are seeing catastrophic floods in central europe, - now we are seeing catastrophic. floods in central europe, central and western— floods in central europe, central and western europe, _ floods in central europe, central and western europe, we - floods in central europe, central and western europe, we are - floods in central europe, central. and western europe, we are seeing extremely— and western europe, we are seeing extremely deadly _ and western europe, we are seeing extremely deadly heat _ and western europe, we are seeing extremely deadly heat wave - and western europe, we are seeing extremely deadly heat wave in - and western europe, we are seeing extremely deadly heat wave in thei extremely deadly heat wave in the north-west— extremely deadly heat wave in the north—west which— extremely deadly heat wave in the north—west which has _ extremely deadly heat wave in the north—west which has made - extremely deadly heat wave in the - north—west which has made everybody set up _ north—west which has made everybody set up in _ north—west which has made everybody set up in these — north—west which has made everybody set up in these countries, _ north—west which has made everybody set up in these countries, but - north—west which has made everybody set up in these countries, but let's- set up in these countries, but let's not forget — set up in these countries, but let's not forget that _ set up in these countries, but let's not forget that climate _ set up in these countries, but let's not forget that climate change - set up in these countries, but let's not forget that climate change hasj not forget that climate change has been hitting — not forget that climate change has been hitting poorer— not forget that climate change has been hitting poorer countries- not forget that climate change has| been hitting poorer countries hard. just been hitting poorer countries hard. just very— been hitting poorer countries hard. just very briefly. _ been hitting poorer countries hard. just very briefly, henry. _ been hitting poorer countries hard. just very briefly, henry.— just very briefly, henry. sorry. madagascar — just very briefly, henry. sorry. madagascar in _ just very briefly, henry. sorry. madagascar in particular, - just very briefly, henry. sorry. madagascar in particular, we l just very briefly, henry. sorry. l madagascar in particular, we are seeing _ madagascar in particular, we are seeing a — madagascar in particular, we are seeing a famine _ madagascar in particular, we are seeing a famine happening - madagascar in particular, we are i seeing a famine happening before madagascar in particular, we are - seeing a famine happening before our eyes which _ seeing a famine happening before our eyes which might— seeing a famine happening before our eyes which might be _ seeing a famine happening before our eyes which might be the _ seeing a famine happening before our eyes which might be the first - seeing a famine happening before our eyes which might be the first time - eyes which might be the first time in modern — eyes which might be the first time in modern history— eyes which might be the first time in modern history that _ eyes which might be the first time in modern history that is - eyes which might be the first time in modern history that is purely. in modern history that is purely from _ in modern history that is purely from climate _ in modern history that is purely from climate change _ in modern history that is purely from climate change and - in modern history that is purely from climate change and not i in modern history that is purely- from climate change and not because of man-made — from climate change and not because of man—made causes. _ from climate change and not because of man-made causes.— from climate change and not because of man-made causes. thank you very much for the — of man-made causes. thank you very much for the 22nd, _ of man-made causes. thank you very much for the 22nd, damien! - of man-made causes. thank you very much for the 22nd, damien! i - of man-made causes. thank you very much for the 22nd, damien! i think . much for the 22nd, damien! i think we should go to the olympics, we had about the russian we should go to the olympics, we had about the russia— about the russian athlete that sort as lum about the russian athlete that sort asylum which _ about the russian athlete that sort asylum which has _ about the russian athlete that sort asylum which has put _ about the russian athlete that sort asylum which has put the - about the russian athlete that sort asylum which has put the spotlightj asylum which has put the spotlight back on by the recent human rights there, but a lot of sort of green there, but a lot of sort of green the tour, let's also remember the highjumpers who shared the tour, let's also remember the high jumpers who shared gold, i think that was a moment worth reflecting on. —— there's been a lot of grim talk. thank you all. and thank you, too.

good evening. it's been a funny and kind of day. some of us have seen some sunshine but the showers never too far away, waiting in the wings if you stepped outside without an umbrella, just to catch you out. no pressure has been the dominant feature today and will remain so going into the weekend, heaviest of the rain through scotland, northern ireland and north—west england. by the middle part of the day, i was a significant cluster of thundery which passed through belfast and brought some localised flooding in places. those showers are set to continue through the evening and overnight, circulating around that

low, and take a look at what is happening across wales and south—west england, quite an organised line of showers overnight tonight, some sharper ones potentially threatening the kent coast as well. a relatively mount start the weekend, double digits, but the thundery downpours are set to continue. it's going to be unsettled weekend, particularly on the saturday. so, low pressure still with us, plenty of showers from the west first thing in the morning. they're going to be driven in by some brisk winds, gusts in excess of 30—40 miles per hour on exposed coasts. that'll rattle those showers further east as we go through the afternoon. one or two places may well stay dry, but if you catch a shower, some of them really quite heavy and they could be quite torrential at times. so, temperatures are going to be a little bit subdued, i'm afraid, with all the showers around. highs of 15—20 celsius. as we move out of saturday into sunday, the low pressure looks likely to drift its wayjust that

little bit further east, and potentially, things may quieten down just a touch. still plenty of showers around for the second half of the weekend, but hopefully not as many, not as widespread as we've seen for the last couple of days, likely to sit across the north and the west. that means central and southern england and potentially to the north or west of the great glen could stay relatively dry with a little more sunshine, perhaps a degree or so warmer — 21 degrees. there's the potentialfor a ridge of high pressure to build as well from the south as we head into next week. for a time, low pressures will still try to push in from the atlantic, but it does mean that some of us will see a slightly quieter weather story with some dry weather. but the showers continue to be an issue further north and west.

this is bbc news. the headlines at 8pm: emergency talks on afghanistan at the un, is a major city. the taliban, a close associate is of the president is assassinated in the capital. coronavirus rates fall, as adults get vaccinated up to 18%. the greek promised a want of an unprecedented crisis, as the strong wind swept up wildfires that devastate the whole country. laura kenny becomes britain's most decorated female olympian — she wins her fifth gold medal. and a photo—finish in the men's four by 100 metres relay — italy deny team gb the gold byjust one 100th of a second.

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