Amid the Afghanistan-Taliban peace talks, Taliban had handed over a list of prisoners they wanted the Afghan government to release, and the Afghan government, too, had asked for release of the captivated soldiers.

As the&nbsp;Afghan government is slowly releasing selected prisoners, Taliban has also started releasing the captivated soldiers. On Monday, Taliban released 14 Afghan soldiers and policemen in several provinces across the country, Taliban spokesman confirmed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-support-afghanistans-decision-to-not-release-taliban-prisoners-307334">Also read|&nbsp;Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners</a>

"Another group of 14 soldiers and policemen of the Kabul Administration were released from prisons of the Islamic Emirate in Logar, Nangarhar and Nooristan provinces and sent to their families," Suheil Shaheen wrote on Twitter.

In another tweet, Shaheen said that the head of the Taliban's political office, Baradar Akhund, met with United Nations Assistance Missions in Afghanistan chief Deborah Lyons in Qatar's capital Doha to discuss about the release of the remaining prisoners and the commencement of intra-Afghan talks.

The Afghan government has already released 3,000 out of the 5,000 said prisoners. However, the government is contemplating about releasing few hundreds of the high-profile prisoners, as they are believed to be responsible for some of the most violent attacks.

Amid the Afghanistan-Taliban peace talks, Taliban had handed over a list of prisoners they wanted the Afghan government to release, and the Afghan government, too, had asked for release of the captivated soldiers.

Amid the Afghanistan-Taliban peace talks, Taliban had handed over a list of prisoners they wanted the Afghan government to release, and the Afghan government, too, had asked for release of the captivated soldiers. As the Afghan government is slowly releasing selected prisoners, Taliban has also started releasing the captivated soldiers. On Monday, Taliban released 14 Afghan soldiers and policemen in several provinces across the country, Taliban spokesman confirmed. Also read| Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners "Another group of 14 soldiers and policemen of the Kabul Administration were released from prisons of the Islamic Emirate in Logar, Nangarhar and Nooristan provinces and sent to their families," Suheil Shaheen wrote on Twitter. In another tweet, Shaheen said that the head of the Taliban's political office, Baradar Akhund, met with United Nations Assistance Missions in Afghanistan chief Deborah Lyons in Qatar's capital Doha to discuss about the release of the remaining prisoners and the commencement of intra-Afghan talks. The Afghan government has already released 3,000 out of the 5,000 said prisoners. However, the government is contemplating about releasing few hundreds of the high-profile prisoners, as they are believed to be responsible for some of the most violent attacks.

Taliban releases 14 hostages amid prisoner-release agreement

Nepal`s parliamentary committee on Sunday has voted in favour of amending the country`s citizenship act that would require seven years threshold for foreign women to get naturalized citizenship after marrying a Nepali citizen.

A meeting of State Affairs and Good Governance Committee on Sunday endorsed the act with majority paving the way to table it on parliament for further discussion.Last week, the ruling Nepal Communist Party secretariat meeting also had endorsed the proposal with seven years threshold to obtain naturalized citizenship of Nepal after marriage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/allies-or-puppets-nepals-movement-around-border-raises-questions-about-its-friendship-with-china-307183">Also read:&nbsp;Allies or puppets? Nepal's movement around border raises questions about its friendship with China</a>

Continuing provision of a threshold, the committee has proposed granting residence permit to foreign women married to a Nepali citizen until she will be eligible to obtain naturalized citizenship, the decision published after the meeting states.

Foreign women marrying a Nepali national can, however, exercise social, economic and cultural rights during the seven years mandatory threshold, the committee has explained further.

The amendment proposal also has proposed women be allowed to operate businesses, use or sell fixed and moveable assets or get involved in transaction of properties.

The main opposition, the Nepali Congress, on the other hand, has decided on to register a note of dissent over the decision made on by the committee expressing dissatisfaction over the provisions.

Janata Samajbadi Party also has vowed its support to Nepali Congress over the issue.

Nepal`s parliamentary committee on Sunday has voted in favour of amending the country`s citizenship act that would require seven years threshold for foreign women to get naturalized citizenship after marrying a Nepali citizen.

Nepal`s parliamentary committee on Sunday has voted in favour of amending the country`s citizenship act that would require seven years threshold for foreign women to get naturalized citizenship after marrying a Nepali citizen. A meeting of State Affairs and Good Governance Committee on Sunday endorsed the act with majority paving the way to table it on parliament for further discussion.Last week, the ruling Nepal Communist Party secretariat meeting also had endorsed the proposal with seven years threshold to obtain naturalized citizenship of Nepal after marriage. Also read: Allies or puppets? Nepal's movement around border raises questions about its friendship with China Continuing provision of a threshold, the committee has proposed granting residence permit to foreign women married to a Nepali citizen until she will be eligible to obtain naturalized citizenship, the decision published after the meeting states. Foreign women marrying a Nepali national can, however, exercise social, economic and cultural rights during the seven years mandatory threshold, the committee has explained further. The amendment proposal also has proposed women be allowed to operate businesses, use or sell fixed and moveable assets or get involved in transaction of properties. The main opposition, the Nepali Congress, on the other hand, has decided on to register a note of dissent over the decision made on by the committee expressing dissatisfaction over the provisions. Janata Samajbadi Party also has vowed its support to Nepali Congress over the issue.

Nepal's Parliamentary Committee supports amendment in Citizenship Act, Parliament soon to start discussion

Taliban militants kidnapped about 60 civilians in central Afghanistan over the past week, officials said on Sunday, with more than half still being held amid efforts by the United States and other foreign powers to start peace talks.

The Taliban took the hostages in the central province of Daikundi after a women escaped a Taliban-controlled village in a neighbouring province, according to the provincial deputy governor, Mohammad Ali Uruzgani.

Some 26, including women and children, had been released and tribal elders were mediating to free the remaining civilians, Uruzgani added.

A Taliban spokesman denied kidnapping the civilians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-support-afghanistans-decision-to-not-release-taliban-prisoners-307334">Also read:&nbsp;Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners</a>

The militants, fighting to re-introduce strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster from power, signed a troop withdrawal agreement with the United States in February, which was designed to pave the way for peace talks with the Afghan government.

But violence has ramped up since the agreement and discord over the release of Taliban prisoners has hampered progress on formal talks.

Underscoring the tension, a spokesman for the national security council said the Taliban had killed more than 40 civilians around the country in the past week.

"The Taliban have failed to deliver on promises of reducing violence against the Afghan people and working for peace," spokesman Javid Faisal said on Twitter.

The U.N. mission in Afghanistan released a report on Sunday raising concerns about 15 attacks on health workers and health care facilities during the coronavirus pandemic, attributing responsibility for the majority of them to the Taliban.

The Taliban rejected both the U.N. and government allegations and accused the government of causing civilian casualties in the last week.

Taliban militants kidnapped about 60 civilians in central Afghanistan over the past week, officials said on Sunday, with more than half still being held amid efforts by the United States and other foreign powers to start peace talks.

Taliban militants kidnapped about 60 civilians in central Afghanistan over the past week, officials said on Sunday, with more than half still being held amid efforts by the United States and other foreign powers to start peace talks. The Taliban took the hostages in the central province of Daikundi after a women escaped a Taliban-controlled village in a neighbouring province, according to the provincial deputy governor, Mohammad Ali Uruzgani. Some 26, including women and children, had been released and tribal elders were mediating to free the remaining civilians, Uruzgani added. A Taliban spokesman denied kidnapping the civilians. Also read: Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners The militants, fighting to re-introduce strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster from power, signed a troop withdrawal agreement with the United States in February, which was designed to pave the way for peace talks with the Afghan government. But violence has ramped up since the agreement and discord over the release of Taliban prisoners has hampered progress on formal talks. Underscoring the tension, a spokesman for the national security council said the Taliban had killed more than 40 civilians around the country in the past week. "The Taliban have failed to deliver on promises of reducing violence against the Afghan people and working for peace," spokesman Javid Faisal said on Twitter. The U.N. mission in Afghanistan released a report on Sunday raising concerns about 15 attacks on health workers and health care facilities during the coronavirus pandemic, attributing responsibility for the majority of them to the Taliban. The Taliban rejected both the U.N. and government allegations and accused the government of causing civilian casualties in the last week.

Afghan Taliban kidnap dozens of civilians amid peace efforts, officials say

Suspected militants ambushed a Pakistani army vehicle in a former Taliban and al-Qaida stronghold near the Afghanistan border, triggering a shootout that killed two soldiers, the army said Sunday.

It said two soldiers were also wounded in Saturday night's attack near the border village of Ghariom in North Waziristan and that troops retaliated and killed one of the attackers in an ensuing exchange of fire.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-open-third-border-check-post-with-afghanistan-for-bilateral-trade-307527">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan to open third border check post with Afghanistan for bilateral trade</a>

The army provided no further details and only said troops later cleared a nearby militant compound in North Waziristan, a former tribal region that had served as a militant base until recent years when the Pakistani military said its successive operations there had cleared the area of the Taliban.

The latest attack came as authorities prepared to reopen a key border crossing with neighboring Afghanistan to allow trade. Trucks carrying fruits, vegetables and other items will start crossing the Ghulam Khan border in North Waziristan district on Monday.

Suspected militants ambushed a Pakistani army vehicle in a former Taliban and al-Qaida stronghold near the Afghanistan border, triggering a shootout that killed two soldiers, the army said Sunday.

Suspected militants ambushed a Pakistani army vehicle in a former Taliban and al-Qaida stronghold near the Afghanistan border, triggering a shootout that killed two soldiers, the army said Sunday. It said two soldiers were also wounded in Saturday night's attack near the border village of Ghariom in North Waziristan and that troops retaliated and killed one of the attackers in an ensuing exchange of fire. Also read: Pakistan to open third border check post with Afghanistan for bilateral trade The army provided no further details and only said troops later cleared a nearby militant compound in North Waziristan, a former tribal region that had served as a militant base until recent years when the Pakistani military said its successive operations there had cleared the area of the Taliban. The latest attack came as authorities prepared to reopen a key border crossing with neighboring Afghanistan to allow trade. Trucks carrying fruits, vegetables and other items will start crossing the Ghulam Khan border in North Waziristan district on Monday.

Pakistani military: 2 soldiers killed in militant attack

India recorded&nbsp;the highest single-day spike of 15,413 COVID-19 cases on Sunday morning, taking the toll to&nbsp;4,10,461, including&nbsp;13,254 deaths.

The total number of cases include&nbsp;1,69,451 active cases, 2,27,756 cured/discharged/migrated and 13,254 deaths.

The national capital, which has been observing a constant rise in positive cases, recorded&nbsp;3,000 new cases, taking the total number of cases to 59,746. Death toll has risen to 2,175 after 63 deaths were reported today. Number of recoveries till date stands at 33,013.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-highest-single-day-spike-of-15413-covid-19-cases-as-tally-crosses-4-lakh-307405">Also read|&nbsp;India sees highest single-day spike of 15,413 COVID-19 cases as tally crosses 4 lakh</a>

Tamil Nadu, which is currently on a complete strict lockdown, reported the highest single-day spike of 2,532&nbsp;cases and 53 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases stands at 59,377. There are 25,863 active cases now in the state. Death toll now stands at 757, according to the State Health Department.

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Uttarakhand reports 20 more <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases till 9 pm today, taking the total number of cases to 2344: State Control Room COVID-19 <a href="https://t.co/n3axFJ5aL9">pic.twitter.com/n3axFJ5aL9</a>
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12 fresh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases have been reported in Dharavi area of Mumbai today, taking the total number of cases to 2170. Death toll stands at 80: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>
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Kerala reported&nbsp;133 more cases. Total number of active cases in the state is now at 1,490, including 1,659 recovered cases.

Karantaka recorded&nbsp;453 fresh COVID 19 cases and 5 deaths, taking total number of active cases to 3,391 &amp; death toll to 137.

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The total number of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases in Himachal Pradesh stands at 662 now, including 237 active cases, 406 recovered and 6 deaths: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/YIlpEHVDHh">pic.twitter.com/YIlpEHVDHh</a>
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Punjab, the north Indian state, reported&nbsp;122 new, taking the total number of cases to 4,074. Death toll rises to 99 after one death was reported today. Till date, 2,700 patients have been discharged, according to the&nbsp;Department of Information &amp; Public Relations, Punjab Government.

Mumabi, which is the epicenter of the worst affected state in the country - Maharashtra, reported 1,242 new cases and 41 deaths. The total now stands at 66,507, including 3,669 deaths, 33,491 discharged and 29,347 recovered cases.

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122 fresh cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir today; 20 from Jammu division and 102 from Kashmir division. Total number cases stand at 5956 including 2492 active cases, 3382 recovered and 82 deaths: J&amp;K Govt <a href="https://t.co/e7yAiGXdoY">pic.twitter.com/e7yAiGXdoY</a>
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14 more personnel of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) tested positive for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in the last 24 hours. There are total 58 active cases &amp; 210 have recovered till date: Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) <a href="https://t.co/9cHinYasIm">pic.twitter.com/9cHinYasIm</a>
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Goa, which was once declared as a coronavirus-free state, reported 64 new cases, taking the total number of cases to 818. There are 683 active cases and 135 recovered cases, as reported by the&nbsp;Directorate of Health Services, Goa.

A total of 414 fresh cases were reported in West Bengal. The state recorded 15 deaths and 432 people were discharged in the last 24 hours. The total number of positive cases stands at 13,945 in the state, of which 5,093 are active cases. The death toll is at 555.

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139 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases have been reported in Chhattisgarh today. Total number of cases stand at 2273 including 841 active cases, 1421 discharged and 11 deaths: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/py5gXi5HUf">pic.twitter.com/py5gXi5HUf</a>
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Gujarat reported&nbsp;580 fresh cases and 25 deaths in the last 24 hours. State tally now stands at&nbsp;27,317 including 19,357 cured/discharged and 1,664 deaths.

Rajasthan reported&nbsp;393 new cases and 12 deaths till 8.30 pm on Sunday. Total number of cases rise to 14,930 including 2,984 active cases, 349 deaths and 11,355 discharges.

Haryana has had 412 new cases, taking the total number of cases to 10,635.

With 2,27,755 COVID-19 patients cured so far, the recovery rate has further improved to 55.49 per cent among patients, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday.

"The number of patients recovering from COVID-19 continues to increase. So far, a total of 2, 27,755 patients have been cured. During the last 24 hours, a total of 13,925 COVID-19 patients have been cured. The recovery rate has further improved to 55.49 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients," the Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

India recorded the highest single-day spike of 15,413 COVID-19 cases on Sunday morning, taking the toll to 4,10,461, including 13,254 deaths. The total number of cases include 1,69,451 active cases, 2,27,756 cured/discharged/migrated and 13,254 deaths.

India recorded the highest single-day spike of 15,413 COVID-19 cases on Sunday morning, taking the toll to 4,10,461, including 13,254 deaths. The total number of cases include 1,69,451 active cases, 2,27,756 cured/discharged/migrated and 13,254 deaths. The national capital, which has been observing a constant rise in positive cases, recorded 3,000 new cases, taking the total number of cases to 59,746. Death toll has risen to 2,175 after 63 deaths were reported today. Number of recoveries till date stands at 33,013. Also read| India sees highest single-day spike of 15,413 COVID-19 cases as tally crosses 4 lakh Tamil Nadu, which is currently on a complete strict lockdown, reported the highest single-day spike of 2,532 cases and 53 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases stands at 59,377. There are 25,863 active cases now in the state. Death toll now stands at 757, according to the State Health Department. Uttarakhand reports 20 more #COVID19 positive cases till 9 pm today, taking the total number of cases to 2344: State Control Room COVID-19 pic.twitter.com/n3axFJ5aL9 — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2020 × 12 fresh #COVID19 cases have been reported in Dharavi area of Mumbai today, taking the total number of cases to 2170. Death toll stands at 80: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) #Maharashtra — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2020 × Kerala reported 133 more cases. Total number of active cases in the state is now at 1,490, including 1,659 recovered cases. Karantaka recorded 453 fresh COVID 19 cases and 5 deaths, taking total number of active cases to 3,391 & death toll to 137. The total number of #COVID19 positive cases in Himachal Pradesh stands at 662 now, including 237 active cases, 406 recovered and 6 deaths: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/YIlpEHVDHh — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2020 × Punjab, the north Indian state, reported 122 new, taking the total number of cases to 4,074. Death toll rises to 99 after one death was reported today. Till date, 2,700 patients have been discharged, according to the Department of Information & Public Relations, Punjab Government. Mumabi, which is the epicenter of the worst affected state in the country - Maharashtra, reported 1,242 new cases and 41 deaths. The total now stands at 66,507, including 3,669 deaths, 33,491 discharged and 29,347 recovered cases. 122 fresh cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir today; 20 from Jammu division and 102 from Kashmir division. Total number cases stand at 5956 including 2492 active cases, 3382 recovered and 82 deaths: J&K Govt pic.twitter.com/e7yAiGXdoY — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2020 × 14 more personnel of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) tested positive for #COVID19 in the last 24 hours. There are total 58 active cases & 210 have recovered till date: Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) pic.twitter.com/9cHinYasIm — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2020 × Goa, which was once declared as a coronavirus-free state, reported 64 new cases, taking the total number of cases to 818. There are 683 active cases and 135 recovered cases, as reported by the Directorate of Health Services, Goa. A total of 414 fresh cases were reported in West Bengal. The state recorded 15 deaths and 432 people were discharged in the last 24 hours. The total number of positive cases stands at 13,945 in the state, of which 5,093 are active cases. The death toll is at 555. 139 new #COVID19 cases have been reported in Chhattisgarh today. Total number of cases stand at 2273 including 841 active cases, 1421 discharged and 11 deaths: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/py5gXi5HUf — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2020 × Gujarat reported 580 fresh cases and 25 deaths in the last 24 hours. State tally now stands at 27,317 including 19,357 cured/discharged and 1,664 deaths. Rajasthan reported 393 new cases and 12 deaths till 8.30 pm on Sunday. Total number of cases rise to 14,930 including 2,984 active cases, 349 deaths and 11,355 discharges. Haryana has had 412 new cases, taking the total number of cases to 10,635. With 2,27,755 COVID-19 patients cured so far, the recovery rate has further improved to 55.49 per cent among patients, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. "The number of patients recovering from COVID-19 continues to increase. So far, a total of 2, 27,755 patients have been cured. During the last 24 hours, a total of 13,925 COVID-19 patients have been cured. The recovery rate has further improved to 55.49 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients," the Ministry said in a statement.

COVID 19: Delhi records 3,000 new cases, Tamil Nadu cases near 60,000

Pakistan said it will open its third border check point with Afghanistan on Sunday to facilitate bilateral trade.

All security points between the two countries were closed due to the coronavirus pandemic in end of March. In May, Pakistan opened terminals at Torkham and Chaman for transit trade and exports.

"It has been decided that with effect from June 22, 2020 the third border terminal at Ghulam Khan will be opened for bilateral trade,"&nbsp;the Pakistan Foreign Office (FO) said on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/pakistan-opens-key-border-crossings-with-afghanistan-for-trade-299184">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan opens key border crossings with Afghanistan for trade</a>

This border point will remain open six days a week and Saturdays have been reserved for pedestrian movement. 
Trade activities between the two countries will continue at the Torkham and Chaman border terminals, the statement said.

"These steps are being taken after implementing all necessary protocols related to COVID-19 pandemic," the FO said. Afghanistan is Pakistan's largest export market.

Pakistan will continue to support a peaceful and economically stable Afghanistan, the FO said.

Pakistan said it will open its third border check point with Afghanistan on Sunday to facilitate bilateral trade. All security points between the two countries were closed due to the coronavirus pandemic in end of March.

Pakistan said it will open its third border check point with Afghanistan on Sunday to facilitate bilateral trade. All security points between the two countries were closed due to the coronavirus pandemic in end of March. In May, Pakistan opened terminals at Torkham and Chaman for transit trade and exports. "It has been decided that with effect from June 22, 2020 the third border terminal at Ghulam Khan will be opened for bilateral trade," the Pakistan Foreign Office (FO) said on Saturday. Also read| Pakistan opens key border crossings with Afghanistan for trade This border point will remain open six days a week and Saturdays have been reserved for pedestrian movement. Trade activities between the two countries will continue at the Torkham and Chaman border terminals, the statement said. "These steps are being taken after implementing all necessary protocols related to COVID-19 pandemic," the FO said. Afghanistan is Pakistan's largest export market. Pakistan will continue to support a peaceful and economically stable Afghanistan, the FO said.

Pakistan to open third border check post with Afghanistan for bilateral trade

Sindh provincial government's spokesperson Murtaza Wahab has tested positive for the coronavirus, adding to the list of politicians who have contracted the virus that has killed over 3,500 people in Pakistan.

Wahab, whose tests results came back positive on Saturday, has put himself under quarantine.

The News International quoted Wahab saying that he has no symptoms currently and is feeling alright.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-open-third-border-check-post-with-afghanistan-for-bilateral-trade-307527">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan to open third border check post with Afghanistan for bilateral trade</a>

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Pakistan reported 4,951 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nation's tally to 176,617 on Sunday.

The death toll due to the virus reached 3,501 after 119 people died of the disease during the period.

Among the infected people, 67,353 are in Sindh, 65,739 in Punjab, 21,444 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 10,662 in Islamabad, 9,328 in Balochistan, 1,278 in Gilgit Baltistan and 813 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/enforced-disappearance-policy-is-becoming-a-stimulus-to-declare-pakistan-as-terrorist-state-baloch-leader-307525">Also read|&nbsp;Enforced disappearance policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan as terrorist state: Baloch leader</a>

A total of 67,892 people have recovered from the disease.

The authorities have conducted 1,071,642 tests, including 28,855 in the last 24 hours.

The number of COVID-19 cases is increasing rapidly in the country and so far, several lawmakers have been infected with the virus.

At least four lawmakers, including a provincial minister, have died due to coronavirus in Pakistan.

Pakistan's Information Technology and Telecommunications Minister Syed Aminul Haq was tested positive for the coronavirus on June 16.

Sindh's Minister For Women Development Syeda Shehla Raza was tested positive for the coronavirus a day earlier. The 56-year-old leader has gone into isolation at her residence. 
Former prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani tested positive for the coronavirus on June 13. 
Shehbaz Sharif, chief of the Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), was tested positive for the coronavirus on June 11 after he appeared before the NAB in a money laundering case. 
Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad, PML-N leaders Ahsan Iqbal and Marriyum Aurangzeb had also tested positive for the virus.

Sindh provincial government's spokesperson Murtaza Wahab has tested positive for the coronavirus, adding to the list of politicians who have contracted the virus that has killed over 3,500 people in Pakistan.

Sindh provincial government's spokesperson Murtaza Wahab has tested positive for the coronavirus, adding to the list of politicians who have contracted the virus that has killed over 3,500 people in Pakistan. Wahab, whose tests results came back positive on Saturday, has put himself under quarantine. The News International quoted Wahab saying that he has no symptoms currently and is feeling alright. Also read| Pakistan to open third border check post with Afghanistan for bilateral trade According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Pakistan reported 4,951 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nation's tally to 176,617 on Sunday. The death toll due to the virus reached 3,501 after 119 people died of the disease during the period. Among the infected people, 67,353 are in Sindh, 65,739 in Punjab, 21,444 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 10,662 in Islamabad, 9,328 in Balochistan, 1,278 in Gilgit Baltistan and 813 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Also read| Enforced disappearance policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan as terrorist state: Baloch leader A total of 67,892 people have recovered from the disease. The authorities have conducted 1,071,642 tests, including 28,855 in the last 24 hours. The number of COVID-19 cases is increasing rapidly in the country and so far, several lawmakers have been infected with the virus. At least four lawmakers, including a provincial minister, have died due to coronavirus in Pakistan. Pakistan's Information Technology and Telecommunications Minister Syed Aminul Haq was tested positive for the coronavirus on June 16. Sindh's Minister For Women Development Syeda Shehla Raza was tested positive for the coronavirus a day earlier. The 56-year-old leader has gone into isolation at her residence. Former prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani tested positive for the coronavirus on June 13. Shehbaz Sharif, chief of the Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), was tested positive for the coronavirus on June 11 after he appeared before the NAB in a money laundering case. Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad, PML-N leaders Ahsan Iqbal and Marriyum Aurangzeb had also tested positive for the virus.

COVID-19 fatalities cross 3,500 in Pak, Sindh provincial govt's spokesperson tests positive

Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM) Khalil Baloch highlighted the case of Zakir Majeed, a student leader, who is in Pakistani torture cell since last 11 years, and said the policy of enforced disappearance is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level.

"Zakir Majeed has completed 11 years in Pakistani torture cells. Instead of discouraging the Baloch youth through abductions and torture to end politics, this policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level," Baloch tweeted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-international-aid-of-usd-15-billion-to-handle-covid-outbreak-307314">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak</a>

Zakir Majeed Baloch was enforcedly disappeared on 8th June 2009 along with two of his friends Waheed Baluch and Basit Baluch. Later Waheed and Basit were released while Zakir Majeed was kept in extrajudicial custody and till this day no one has any trace of him.

Pakistan`s establishment has long been criticised over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/broken-promises-and-lavish-feasts-imran-khan-disappoints-people-of-pakistan-307176">Also read|&nbsp;Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan</a>

According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, about 5,000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved.

Independent local and international human rights organisations put the numbers much higher. Around 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture.

Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple interviews about the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM) Khalil Baloch highlighted the case of Zakir Majeed, a student leader, who is in Pakistani torture cell since last 11 years, and said the policy of enforced disappearance is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level.

Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM) Khalil Baloch highlighted the case of Zakir Majeed, a student leader, who is in Pakistani torture cell since last 11 years, and said the policy of enforced disappearance is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level. "Zakir Majeed has completed 11 years in Pakistani torture cells. Instead of discouraging the Baloch youth through abductions and torture to end politics, this policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level," Baloch tweeted. Also read| Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak Zakir Majeed Baloch was enforcedly disappeared on 8th June 2009 along with two of his friends Waheed Baluch and Basit Baluch. Later Waheed and Basit were released while Zakir Majeed was kept in extrajudicial custody and till this day no one has any trace of him. Pakistan`s establishment has long been criticised over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue. Also read| Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, about 5,000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved. Independent local and international human rights organisations put the numbers much higher. Around 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture. Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple interviews about the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Enforced disappearance policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan as terrorist state: Baloch leader

Palestinians are worried their restricted access to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and its mineral-rich beaches could be cut further if Israel annexes land in the occupied West Bank.

Israel, citing support from U.S. President Donald Trump, has announced plans to extend sovereignty over parts of the West Bank - including the Jordan Valley, which partly borders the Dead Sea. Palestinians have voiced outrage at the proposal.

The Dead Sea is a popular destination where bathers float in hypersaline waters and use the nutrient-rich mud on their skin. Its shores border Israel, Jordan and the West Bank.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-thousands-march-against-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-plans-303958">Also read|&nbsp;Israel: Thousands march against PM Benjamin Netanyahu's plans</a>

"This place is a blessing for all Palestinians, but if there will be annexation it will be hard for them to reach here. They may need permits," said Musa Farah, a lifeguard at one of the small, Israeli-run resorts that dot the Dead Sea`s West Bank coast.

Even some owners of Israeli resorts - set up after Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war - are concerned they could lose customers under the annexation plan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-mulls-two-phase-west-bank-annexation-306513">Also read|&nbsp;Israel's Netanyahu mulls two-phase West Bank annexation</a>

"My business will be very much affected," said Dina Dagan, owner of the Biankini Village Resort. "The Israeli government should know that my business depends on the Palestinians who visit here. This place is open for Jews and Arabs."

During peace talks - stalled since 2014 - the Palestinians have sought to gain some control over part of the Dead Sea coastline and set up resorts, which they see as a potential boon for their economy.

The Palestinians have long sought a state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 
Most countries view Israeli settlements in occupied territory as illegal. Israel rejects this.

Palestinians are worried their restricted access to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and its mineral-rich beaches could be cut further if Israel annexes land in the occupied West Bank.

Palestinians are worried their restricted access to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and its mineral-rich beaches could be cut further if Israel annexes land in the occupied West Bank. Israel, citing support from U.S. President Donald Trump, has announced plans to extend sovereignty over parts of the West Bank - including the Jordan Valley, which partly borders the Dead Sea. Palestinians have voiced outrage at the proposal. The Dead Sea is a popular destination where bathers float in hypersaline waters and use the nutrient-rich mud on their skin. Its shores border Israel, Jordan and the West Bank. Also read| Israel: Thousands march against PM Benjamin Netanyahu's plans "This place is a blessing for all Palestinians, but if there will be annexation it will be hard for them to reach here. They may need permits," said Musa Farah, a lifeguard at one of the small, Israeli-run resorts that dot the Dead Sea`s West Bank coast. Even some owners of Israeli resorts - set up after Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war - are concerned they could lose customers under the annexation plan. Also read| Israel's Netanyahu mulls two-phase West Bank annexation "My business will be very much affected," said Dina Dagan, owner of the Biankini Village Resort. "The Israeli government should know that my business depends on the Palestinians who visit here. This place is open for Jews and Arabs." During peace talks - stalled since 2014 - the Palestinians have sought to gain some control over part of the Dead Sea coastline and set up resorts, which they see as a potential boon for their economy. The Palestinians have long sought a state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Most countries view Israeli settlements in occupied territory as illegal. Israel rejects this.

Palestinians fear Israeli annexation could further limit Dead Sea access

Pacaya volcano erupts in Central America; no damage reported

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slow-the-testing-down-please-trumps-solution-to-end-covid-19-307474">'Slow the testing down please': Trump's solution to end COVID-19</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145856-untitled-design-15.jpg?itok=QZi5_-PH" />

After this statement, the White House had to clear the air and an official later told local media that Trump was joking.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reading-stabbing-attack-declared-a-terrorist-incident-investigations-continue-307469">UK: Reading stabbing attack declared a 'terrorist incident'; investigations continue</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145853-untitled-design-13.jpg?itok=kI8Bf-Re" />

Local media reports reveal that the suspect arrested by police is a Libyan national in his twenties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-one-dead-and-at-least-11-injured-in-minneapolis-shooting-307482">US: One dead and at least 11 injured in Minneapolis shooting</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145863-untitled-design-17.jpg?itok=bFS0ub6z" />

As of now, there has been no indication that the shooting was related to the ongoing anti-racism protests, of which Minneapolis has been the origin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ring-of-fire-solar-eclipse-2020-darkens-skies-around-world-307461">Ring of fire: Solar eclipse 2020 darkens skies around world</a>

<img alt="Solar eclipse 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911b9b41-7e9c-4a44-8de8-330a4e3831cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2812%29_17.jpg" />

The annular solar eclipse, popularly known as the 'ring of fire' captivated several countries today. This rare celestial event coincided with the longest day today. This was the first solar eclipse of 2020.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-start-easing-lockdown-soon-plans-to-revealed-this-week-health-minister-307498">UK to start easing lockdown soon; plans to be revealed this week: Health Minister</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145872-untitled-design-21.jpg?itok=KYjnCx5I" />

Matt Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-again-blames-china-for-covid-19-terms-it-kung-flu-307466">Donald Trump again blames China for COVID-19, terms it ‘Kung flu'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145786-untitled-design.jpg?itok=xQPq5Rxh" />

Donald Trump, addressing his first election rally in three months on Saturday in Tulsa, Oklahoma, said that COVID-19 is a disease which has more names than any other disease in history.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-beijing-to-test-one-million-people-daily-307490">COVID 19: Beijing to test one million people daily</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145867-untitled-design-19.jpg?itok=AVWIcIdu" />

The tests are done on samples collected from multiple people in one test tube, enabling the city to get results from almost 1 million people daily.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-shooting-nine-wounded-at-syracuse-celebration-307481">New York shooting: Nine wounded at Syracuse 'celebration'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/04/143177-cirme-scene.jpg?itok=4Y3Vc5M5" />

Of the nine victims, one was a 17-year-old boy in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the head and eight others — ranging in age from 18 to 53 — were expected to survive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-gas-explosion-kills-one-21-residents-evacuated-307486">Ukraine gas explosion kills one, 21 residents evacuated</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145864-untitled-design-18.jpg?itok=i0qGWEQc" />

Local authorities have rescued nearly 21 people till now, but it was not immediately clear how many people had been inside when the blast happened.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muhammad-alis-son-says-dad-wouldnt-have-supported-protests-over-george-floyds-death-307494">Muhammad Ali's son says dad wouldn't have supported protests over George Floyd's death</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/21/145873-untitled-design-13.jpg?itok=h5trB7pL" />

He said: "It's not just Black lives matter, white lives matter, Chinese lives matter, all lives matter, and everybody’s life matters. God loves everyone — he never singled anyone out. Killing is wrong no matter who it is."

'Slow the testing down please': Trump's solution to end COVID-19 After this statement, the White House had to clear the air and an official later told local media that Trump was joking.

'Slow the testing down please': Trump's solution to end COVID-19 After this statement, the White House had to clear the air and an official later told local media that Trump was joking. UK: Reading stabbing attack declared a 'terrorist incident'; investigations continue Local media reports reveal that the suspect arrested by police is a Libyan national in his twenties. US: One dead and at least 11 injured in Minneapolis shooting As of now, there has been no indication that the shooting was related to the ongoing anti-racism protests, of which Minneapolis has been the origin. Ring of fire: Solar eclipse 2020 darkens skies around world The annular solar eclipse, popularly known as the 'ring of fire' captivated several countries today. This rare celestial event coincided with the longest day today. This was the first solar eclipse of 2020. UK to start easing lockdown soon; plans to be revealed this week: Health Minister Matt Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces. Donald Trump again blames China for COVID-19, terms it ‘Kung flu' Donald Trump, addressing his first election rally in three months on Saturday in Tulsa, Oklahoma, said that COVID-19 is a disease which has more names than any other disease in history. COVID 19: Beijing to test one million people daily The tests are done on samples collected from multiple people in one test tube, enabling the city to get results from almost 1 million people daily. New York shooting: Nine wounded at Syracuse 'celebration' Of the nine victims, one was a 17-year-old boy in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the head and eight others — ranging in age from 18 to 53 — were expected to survive. Ukraine gas explosion kills one, 21 residents evacuated Local authorities have rescued nearly 21 people till now, but it was not immediately clear how many people had been inside when the blast happened. Muhammad Ali's son says dad wouldn't have supported protests over George Floyd's death He said: "It's not just Black lives matter, white lives matter, Chinese lives matter, all lives matter, and everybody’s life matters. God loves everyone — he never singled anyone out. Killing is wrong no matter who it is."

Top 10 world news today: UK stabbing, solar eclipse, Trump's "kung flu" and more

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown.

A nationwide lockdown was imposed in the country to contain the wide spread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected nearly 303,000 people in the UK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278">Also read|&nbsp;UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

"We're about to see another step in the plan," Hancock said in a local interview. "This week we will announce further details of the measures we can take to relieve some of the national lockdown measures at the start of July, including on July 4."

Talking about if the two-metre social distancing rule in the UK can be changed for the betterment of the employers, Hancock hinted towards a possible good news by saying, "I very much hope that we can."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-to-allow-british-tourists-to-visit-from-sunday-without-need-for-quarantine-spanish-foreign-minister-307363">Also read|&nbsp;Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister</a>

"The proposals that we will bring forward are how you can safely, safely reduce the two metres with the sort of mitigations we have been talking about," he said.

"I get the problems with the two-metre rule of course, ultimately there are problems with the fact that there`s a virus and the challenge for the country, for all countries is how to get as much of normal life as possible going again."

As the new social distancing rule is expected to allow more pubs and clubs to reopen, Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces.

The announcement is expected on July 04.

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown.

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown. A nationwide lockdown was imposed in the country to contain the wide spread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected nearly 303,000 people in the UK. Also read| UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon "We're about to see another step in the plan," Hancock said in a local interview. "This week we will announce further details of the measures we can take to relieve some of the national lockdown measures at the start of July, including on July 4." Talking about if the two-metre social distancing rule in the UK can be changed for the betterment of the employers, Hancock hinted towards a possible good news by saying, "I very much hope that we can." Also read| Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister "The proposals that we will bring forward are how you can safely, safely reduce the two metres with the sort of mitigations we have been talking about," he said. "I get the problems with the two-metre rule of course, ultimately there are problems with the fact that there`s a virus and the challenge for the country, for all countries is how to get as much of normal life as possible going again." As the new social distancing rule is expected to allow more pubs and clubs to reopen, Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces. The announcement is expected on July 04.

UK to start easing lockdown soon; plans to be revealed this week: Health Minister

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