in his first news conference, the taliban spokesman zabihullah mujahid tried to reassure the rest of the world afghanistan won't be used as a base forforeign fighters to spread terrorism. he also insisted women would be able to work, study and be actively involved in society. the us says it will be looking to the taliban to make good on its pledge to respect human rights. g—7 leaders are to meet remotely next week to discuss a common stance towards the taliban. sanctions could be imposed if the taliban fail to honour their promises. the authorities in haiti now say nearly 2,000 people are known to have died in saturday's powerful earthquake — an increase of 500 on the previous figure. the united nations children's fund estimates that around 1.2 million people in haiti have been affected, including half a million children.