The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition are continuing to hold talks in Barbados in an effort to find ways to resolve the Latin American country's political crisis, the Foreign Ministry of mediator Norway said on Friday.

Friday`s statement, the first in three weeks, came a day after US President Donald Trump said he was considering a quarantine or blockade of Venezuela and ahead of a summit in Peru on the Venezuelan crisis, which US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross will attend.

"The representatives of the main political actors in Venezuela are continuing the negotiations ... the parties have reiterated their willingness to advance in the search for an agreed upon and constitutional solution," Norway`s Foreign Ministry said.

Maduro, who after saying the dialogue was progressing and that he would "meet even with the devil," alleged that the United States is timing new sanctions on Venezuelan officials to coincide with the new rounds of talks.&nbsp;

The Trump administration on Friday slapped sanctions on two security officials for alleged human rights violations.

"Every time there has been a dialogue session, the US government makes bad, perverse decisions like it took this week," Maduro said in a Friday evening state television broadcast. "Illegal, spurious decisions. Stupid decisions about supposed sanctions."

The opposition`s main negotiator, Stalin Gonzalez, thanked the government of Norway in a tweet shortly after the ministry`s statement, ratifying his party`s proposal for a constitutional solution.

Juan Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival interim presidency after declaring Maduro`s 2018 re-election a fraud. Maduro calls Guaido a puppet of the United States and blames Venezuela`s severe economic problems on U.S. sanctions meant to force him from office.

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition are continuing to hold talks in Barbados in an effort to find ways to resolve the Latin American country's political crisis, the Foreign Ministry of mediator Norway said on Friday.

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition are continuing to hold talks in Barbados in an effort to find ways to resolve the Latin American country's political crisis, the Foreign Ministry of mediator Norway said on Friday. Friday`s statement, the first in three weeks, came a day after US President Donald Trump said he was considering a quarantine or blockade of Venezuela and ahead of a summit in Peru on the Venezuelan crisis, which US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross will attend. "The representatives of the main political actors in Venezuela are continuing the negotiations ... the parties have reiterated their willingness to advance in the search for an agreed upon and constitutional solution," Norway`s Foreign Ministry said. Maduro, who after saying the dialogue was progressing and that he would "meet even with the devil," alleged that the United States is timing new sanctions on Venezuelan officials to coincide with the new rounds of talks. The Trump administration on Friday slapped sanctions on two security officials for alleged human rights violations. "Every time there has been a dialogue session, the US government makes bad, perverse decisions like it took this week," Maduro said in a Friday evening state television broadcast. "Illegal, spurious decisions. Stupid decisions about supposed sanctions." The opposition`s main negotiator, Stalin Gonzalez, thanked the government of Norway in a tweet shortly after the ministry`s statement, ratifying his party`s proposal for a constitutional solution. Juan Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival interim presidency after declaring Maduro`s 2018 re-election a fraud. Maduro calls Guaido a puppet of the United States and blames Venezuela`s severe economic problems on U.S. sanctions meant to force him from office.

Venezuela government, opposition hold talks in Barbados as Maduro slams sanctions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/remain-alliance-can-it-halt-brexit-and-beat-boris-johnson-240152">Boris Johnson </a>suffered a setback in his first ballot box test as British prime minister on Friday after the Conservative candidate lost to a pro-EU rival in a by-election that slims his parliamentary majority to one.

Thursday's vote in the Welsh sheep farming community of Brecon and Radnorshire offered a stark choice between the Brexit-backing incumbent&nbsp;from Johnson's ruling Tories and a Liberal Democrat who wants to preserve Britain's four-decade membership of the European Union.

Johnson dropped by the region Tuesday to help out Chris Davies -- a Conservative MP who was forced to step down after being criminally convicted of expenses fraud.

Davies protested his innocence and contested the seat again, but saw the Liberal Democrats' Jane Dodds overturn his previous majority of 8,038 and win by a margin of 1,425 votes.

"My very first act as MP when I arrive in Westminster will be to find Boris Johnson wherever he is hiding and tell him loud and clear: stop playing with the futures of our communities and rule out no-deal Brexit," she said.

Watch: Boris Johnson loses 1st Electoral test

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-boris-johnson-loses-1st-electoral-test-240304/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Johnson's&nbsp;newly-formed government is trying to force Brussels to return to the negotiating table by insisting Britain is ready to leave the EU without a deal on the latest delayed departure date of October 31.

Finance minister Sajid Javid announced Wednesday an extra £2.1 billion ($2.6 billion, 2.3 billion euros) in funding to prepare for such an eventuality.

But Bank of England governor Mark Carney said Friday a no-deal Brexit would be a shock for the country's economy causing supply disruption and potentially undermining entire sectors such as the car industry and farming.

Meanwhile, an official government document obtained by Sky News warned of potential "consumer panic" and gaps in security within weeks.

Such fears have already pushed the pound to its lowest levels since Britons first voted to leave the EU in June 2016.

'So much at stake'&nbsp;

Control of Brecon and Radnorshire has swung between&nbsp;the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives since the 1990s. It voted 52 per cent to leave in the EU referendum -- mirroring the UK-wide result.

Dodds benefitted from a so-called "Remain alliance" which saw two smaller pro-EU parties back her bid.

The result extends a recent revival for the Liberal Democrats at the major parties' expense, thanks to its firm stand against Britain's split from the EU.

It came a surprise second behind populist eurosceptic Nigel Farage's Brexit Party in European Parliament elections in May.

Farage's candidate in the Wales by-election ate into the Conservative's support, while the main opposition Labour Party came in a distant fourth.

Liberal Democrats leader Jo Swinson, elevated to the role just last month, said the party would look to forge further pro-EU alliances at the next election.

"I do think that working across party lines is important when there is so much at stake for the future of our country," she told BBC Radio.

Test of strength

Despite the loss, polling expert John Curtice argued that the result confirmed a "Boris bounce" seen in opinion polls because it was not as bad as it could have been.

The party had been haemorrhaging support under Johnson's predecessor Theresa May, particularly at the expense of the newly-created Brexit Party.

But Curtice warned that polls indicated the Conservatives would still be short of a majority in any election.

The by-election defeat still leaves Johnson in danger of being unable to control parliament when it returns from a summer break on September 3.

MPs are already plotting ways to thwart his threat to take Britain out of the EU by October 31, fearing the dire economic consequences predicted.

The new Conservative leader also needs to be able to pass legislation to make that potentially chaotic outcome as smooth as possible -- and to pass any compromise he might suddenly strike with Brussels.

The 650-seat House of Commons is highly fractured across party lines over Brexit and includes MPs who at times switch sides or abstain in crunch votes.

This leaves Johnson dependent on the whims of just a few legislators at one of the most crucial points in British history since World War II.

Boris Johnson suffered a setback in his first ballot box test as British prime minister on Friday after the Conservative candidate lost to a pro-EU rival in a by-election that slims his parliamentary majority to one.

Boris Johnson suffered a setback in his first ballot box test as British prime minister on Friday after the Conservative candidate lost to a pro-EU rival in a by-election that slims his parliamentary majority to one. Thursday's vote in the Welsh sheep farming community of Brecon and Radnorshire offered a stark choice between the Brexit-backing incumbent from Johnson's ruling Tories and a Liberal Democrat who wants to preserve Britain's four-decade membership of the European Union. Johnson dropped by the region Tuesday to help out Chris Davies -- a Conservative MP who was forced to step down after being criminally convicted of expenses fraud. Davies protested his innocence and contested the seat again, but saw the Liberal Democrats' Jane Dodds overturn his previous majority of 8,038 and win by a margin of 1,425 votes. "My very first act as MP when I arrive in Westminster will be to find Boris Johnson wherever he is hiding and tell him loud and clear: stop playing with the futures of our communities and rule out no-deal Brexit," she said. Watch: Boris Johnson loses 1st Electoral test × Johnson's newly-formed government is trying to force Brussels to return to the negotiating table by insisting Britain is ready to leave the EU without a deal on the latest delayed departure date of October 31. Finance minister Sajid Javid announced Wednesday an extra £2.1 billion ($2.6 billion, 2.3 billion euros) in funding to prepare for such an eventuality. But Bank of England governor Mark Carney said Friday a no-deal Brexit would be a shock for the country's economy causing supply disruption and potentially undermining entire sectors such as the car industry and farming. Meanwhile, an official government document obtained by Sky News warned of potential "consumer panic" and gaps in security within weeks. Such fears have already pushed the pound to its lowest levels since Britons first voted to leave the EU in June 2016. 'So much at stake' Control of Brecon and Radnorshire has swung between the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives since the 1990s. It voted 52 per cent to leave in the EU referendum -- mirroring the UK-wide result. Dodds benefitted from a so-called "Remain alliance" which saw two smaller pro-EU parties back her bid. The result extends a recent revival for the Liberal Democrats at the major parties' expense, thanks to its firm stand against Britain's split from the EU. It came a surprise second behind populist eurosceptic Nigel Farage's Brexit Party in European Parliament elections in May. Farage's candidate in the Wales by-election ate into the Conservative's support, while the main opposition Labour Party came in a distant fourth. Liberal Democrats leader Jo Swinson, elevated to the role just last month, said the party would look to forge further pro-EU alliances at the next election. "I do think that working across party lines is important when there is so much at stake for the future of our country," she told BBC Radio. Test of strength Despite the loss, polling expert John Curtice argued that the result confirmed a "Boris bounce" seen in opinion polls because it was not as bad as it could have been. The party had been haemorrhaging support under Johnson's predecessor Theresa May, particularly at the expense of the newly-created Brexit Party. But Curtice warned that polls indicated the Conservatives would still be short of a majority in any election. The by-election defeat still leaves Johnson in danger of being unable to control parliament when it returns from a summer break on September 3. MPs are already plotting ways to thwart his threat to take Britain out of the EU by October 31, fearing the dire economic consequences predicted. The new Conservative leader also needs to be able to pass legislation to make that potentially chaotic outcome as smooth as possible -- and to pass any compromise he might suddenly strike with Brussels. The 650-seat House of Commons is highly fractured across party lines over Brexit and includes MPs who at times switch sides or abstain in crunch votes. This leaves Johnson dependent on the whims of just a few legislators at one of the most crucial points in British history since World War II.

Britain's Johnson suffers first electoral setback as prime minister

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/ex-maldivian-vp-ahmed-adeeb-jailed-for-15-years-for-plotting-to-kill-president-318">Former Maldives vice president Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor</a>, who entered India illegally on Thursday, has been sent back by Coast Guard.

Tuticorin police department said that Adeeb was escorted back by the Coast Guard in the same vessel Virgo 9, the tug boat, in which he entered Indian waters.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-maldives-sign-400-million-currency-swap-agreement-237730">India, Maldives sign $400 million currency swap agreement</a>

The former vice president who secretly fled the Maldives on a boat to India was not allowed to set foot on Indian soil.

The tugboat in which he reached Indian waters was kept around 50 metres away from the Tuticorin harbour in southern Tamil Nadu.

Adeeb was detained after his tugboat was seized by the Coast Guard near the coast of Thoothukudi on Thursday.

Abeed&nbsp;will be handed&nbsp;over to Maldivian authorities in international waters.&nbsp;He is expected to be handed over on Monday after a 48-hour journey from Tuticorin to International waters. 
 
Authorities performed medical check up on the former vice president&nbsp;and have provided adequate rations and supplies for the journey.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that he was not allowed entry into the country as he did not possess valid documents.

The MEA spokesperson added foreigners were permitted to enter the country only through a designated entry and Adeeb was restricted as he was not entering from a designated point.

Adeeb was convicted by a Maldivian court in a plot to assassinate former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-maldives-president-abdulla-yameen-pleads-not-guilty-to-charges-of-money-laundering-237528">Abdulla Yameen</a>.

The country's Supreme Court had quashed the sentence and ordered a fresh trial in the case.

<button aria-label="Show message history" title="Show message history" type="button"></button>

Former Maldives vice president Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor, who entered India illegally on Thursday, has been sent back by Coast Guard. Tuticorin police department said that Adeeb was escorted back by the Coast Guard in the same vessel Virgo 9, the tug boat, in which he entered Indian waters.

Former Maldives vice president Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor, who entered India illegally on Thursday, has been sent back by Coast Guard. Tuticorin police department said that Adeeb was escorted back by the Coast Guard in the same vessel Virgo 9, the tug boat, in which he entered Indian waters. Also read: India, Maldives sign $400 million currency swap agreement The former vice president who secretly fled the Maldives on a boat to India was not allowed to set foot on Indian soil. The tugboat in which he reached Indian waters was kept around 50 metres away from the Tuticorin harbour in southern Tamil Nadu. Adeeb was detained after his tugboat was seized by the Coast Guard near the coast of Thoothukudi on Thursday. Abeed will be handed over to Maldivian authorities in international waters. He is expected to be handed over on Monday after a 48-hour journey from Tuticorin to International waters. Authorities performed medical check up on the former vice president and have provided adequate rations and supplies for the journey. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that he was not allowed entry into the country as he did not possess valid documents. The MEA spokesperson added foreigners were permitted to enter the country only through a designated entry and Adeeb was restricted as he was not entering from a designated point. Adeeb was convicted by a Maldivian court in a plot to assassinate former president Abdulla Yameen. The country's Supreme Court had quashed the sentence and ordered a fresh trial in the case.

Former Maldives vice president who tried to enter India without valid documents sent back by Coast Guard

Thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-was-putins-political-rival-poisoned-239314">Russian opposition protesters</a> were expected to try and rally again in Moscow on Saturday to demand free elections despite a sweeping police crackdown and ban on the event.

At a similar protest a week earlier, police detained more than 1,000 people, sometimes violently, in one of the biggest security operations of recent years that brought widespread international condemnation.

A Moscow court said on Friday that 88 people had been taken into custody for taking part in last weekend`s protest, another 332 fined, and that more than 1,000 charge sheets had been drawn up. Many of the anti-Kremlin opposition`s leading figures, including Alexei Navalny, are now behind bars.&nbsp;

Authorities carried out a new round of detentions and home searches after the last protest and opened criminal proceedings for what they term mass civil unrest, an offence which carries a penalty of up to 15 years in jail.

The focus of protesters` anger is a prohibition on a slew of opposition-minded candidates, some of whom are allies of Navalny, from taking part in a September election for Moscow`s city legislature.

That vote, though local, is seen as a dry run for a national parliamentary election in 2021.

Authorities say the opposition candidates failed to collect enough genuine signatures to register.

The excluded candidates say that is a lie and insist on taking part in a contest they believe they could win.

Government's rating down

The ruling United Russia party`s rating is at its lowest since 2011 and President Vladimir Putin`s own rating has fallen due to discontent over falling living standards.

Lyubov Sobol, one of the excluded candidates, told Reuters demonstrations would continue until the authorities backed down.

"It won`t be solved until they understand that people are demanding political representation that takes account of their own opinion and will, that these people are not going away," said Sobol, who is on a hunger strike.

At least of eight of Sobol`s allies, including Navalny, are in jail for breaking tough protest laws. United Russia dominates the national parliament, and Navalny plus his allies are starved of media air-time.&nbsp;

Putin and the Kremlin have not commented on the standoff, but Moscow prosecutors on Friday warned would-be protesters that the demonstration had not been approved and that its organisers could be brought to account.

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, a Putin ally, has told the opposition he will not allow their protest movement to plunge the Russian capital into anarchy.&nbsp;

The planned protest underlines the determination of Kremlin critics - especially younger people - to keep pressing to open Russia`s tightly-choreographed political system to competition.

At well over 60 per cent, Putin`s approval rating is still high compared to many other world leaders, but lower than it used to be due to discontent over years of falling incomes.&nbsp;

Last year, the 66-year-old former KGB intelligence officer won a landslide re-election and a new six-year term until 2024.&nbsp;

Thousands of Russian opposition protesters were expected to try and rally again in Moscow on Saturday to demand free elections despite a sweeping police crackdown and ban on the event.

Thousands of Russian opposition protesters were expected to try and rally again in Moscow on Saturday to demand free elections despite a sweeping police crackdown and ban on the event. At a similar protest a week earlier, police detained more than 1,000 people, sometimes violently, in one of the biggest security operations of recent years that brought widespread international condemnation. A Moscow court said on Friday that 88 people had been taken into custody for taking part in last weekend`s protest, another 332 fined, and that more than 1,000 charge sheets had been drawn up. Many of the anti-Kremlin opposition`s leading figures, including Alexei Navalny, are now behind bars. Authorities carried out a new round of detentions and home searches after the last protest and opened criminal proceedings for what they term mass civil unrest, an offence which carries a penalty of up to 15 years in jail. The focus of protesters` anger is a prohibition on a slew of opposition-minded candidates, some of whom are allies of Navalny, from taking part in a September election for Moscow`s city legislature. That vote, though local, is seen as a dry run for a national parliamentary election in 2021. Authorities say the opposition candidates failed to collect enough genuine signatures to register. The excluded candidates say that is a lie and insist on taking part in a contest they believe they could win. Government's rating down The ruling United Russia party`s rating is at its lowest since 2011 and President Vladimir Putin`s own rating has fallen due to discontent over falling living standards. Lyubov Sobol, one of the excluded candidates, told Reuters demonstrations would continue until the authorities backed down. "It won`t be solved until they understand that people are demanding political representation that takes account of their own opinion and will, that these people are not going away," said Sobol, who is on a hunger strike. At least of eight of Sobol`s allies, including Navalny, are in jail for breaking tough protest laws. United Russia dominates the national parliament, and Navalny plus his allies are starved of media air-time. Putin and the Kremlin have not commented on the standoff, but Moscow prosecutors on Friday warned would-be protesters that the demonstration had not been approved and that its organisers could be brought to account. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, a Putin ally, has told the opposition he will not allow their protest movement to plunge the Russian capital into anarchy. The planned protest underlines the determination of Kremlin critics - especially younger people - to keep pressing to open Russia`s tightly-choreographed political system to competition. At well over 60 per cent, Putin`s approval rating is still high compared to many other world leaders, but lower than it used to be due to discontent over years of falling incomes. Last year, the 66-year-old former KGB intelligence officer won a landslide re-election and a new six-year term until 2024.

Russian opposition plans new election protest despite crackdown

Sudan's military council and its main opposition coalition have agreed on a constitutional declaration to usher in a new period of transitional government, African Union mediator for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/timeline-key-dates-in-sudans-political-upheaval-239620">Sudan </a>Mohamed Hassan Lebatt told a news conference in the early hours of Saturday morning.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-protesters-army-rulers-ink-power-sharing-deal-236637">Sudan protesters, army rulers ink power sharing deal</a>

The document, which outlines the powers and the relationship between the branches of the transitional government, comes after weeks of protracted negotiations brokered by the African Union and neighbouring Ethiopia amid sporadic bouts of violence in the capital Khartoum and other cities.

Lebatt said that the delegations will continue talks on Saturday over the technical details of the signature procedures but did not elaborate further on the contents of the declaration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685">Sudan</a>'s stability is crucial for the security of a volatile region stretching from the Horn of Africa to Libya that is riven by conflict and power struggles.

This final agreement is meant to pave the way to a political transition after military leaders ousted former President Omar al-Bashir in April following months of protests against his rule.

Two key points of contention had been the role of Sudan's General Intelligence Service and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the country's most powerful paramilitary group.

According to a draft of the declaration seen by Reuters, the intelligence service will report to the cabinet and the sovereign council, the body that will rule the country in the transitional period, while the RSF will fall under the general command of the armed forces.&nbsp;

The sides had previously agreed that the sovereign council will be comprised of 11 members — five officers selected by the military council, five civilians chosen by the FFC and another civilian to be agreed upon by both sides. Its first leader will be from the military.

When the sovereign council is formed, the country`s current ruling body, a transitional military council headed by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, RSF commander General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, will be dissolved.&nbsp;

Sudan's military council and its main opposition coalition have agreed on a constitutional declaration to usher in a new period of transitional government, African Union mediator for Sudan Mohamed Hassan Lebatt told a news conference in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Sudan's military council and its main opposition coalition have agreed on a constitutional declaration to usher in a new period of transitional government, African Union mediator for Sudan Mohamed Hassan Lebatt told a news conference in the early hours of Saturday morning. Also read: Sudan protesters, army rulers ink power sharing deal The document, which outlines the powers and the relationship between the branches of the transitional government, comes after weeks of protracted negotiations brokered by the African Union and neighbouring Ethiopia amid sporadic bouts of violence in the capital Khartoum and other cities. Lebatt said that the delegations will continue talks on Saturday over the technical details of the signature procedures but did not elaborate further on the contents of the declaration. Sudan's stability is crucial for the security of a volatile region stretching from the Horn of Africa to Libya that is riven by conflict and power struggles. This final agreement is meant to pave the way to a political transition after military leaders ousted former President Omar al-Bashir in April following months of protests against his rule. Two key points of contention had been the role of Sudan's General Intelligence Service and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the country's most powerful paramilitary group. According to a draft of the declaration seen by Reuters, the intelligence service will report to the cabinet and the sovereign council, the body that will rule the country in the transitional period, while the RSF will fall under the general command of the armed forces. The sides had previously agreed that the sovereign council will be comprised of 11 members — five officers selected by the military council, five civilians chosen by the FFC and another civilian to be agreed upon by both sides. Its first leader will be from the military. When the sovereign council is formed, the country`s current ruling body, a transitional military council headed by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, RSF commander General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, will be dissolved.

Sudanese factions agree constitutional declaration for transitional government

A fresh round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-touts-afghan-peace-progress-but-warns-can-kill-millions-240335">US-Taliban peace talks</a> began in Qatar's capital&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

Senior officials privy to the talks said a peace agreement could be expected at the end of the eighth round of talks, possibly before August 13, and would enable foreign forces to be withdrawn from the war-torn country.

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US peace envoy for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/young-afghans-wary-as-possible-us-taliban-deal-nears-240301">Afghanistan</a> who has held a series of meetings with Taliban leaders since last year, reached&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;on Friday night.

"Just got to&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement," Khalilzad wrote on Twitter.

"A peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our (US)&nbsp;presence in Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based," he said, adding the Taliban are signalling they would conclude an agreement.

"We are ready for a good agreement."

Two sources with knowledge of the talks said an agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees by the Taliban is expected before August 13

About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are now in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces.

The hardline Islamist Taliban group now controls more territory than at any point since the United States bombed them out of power in 2001.

Two Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen and Zabihullah Mujahid said a 19-member Taliban negotiation team will represent them in the&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;peace talks.

"The issue of forces withdrawal has prolonged the peace talks and delayed the deal," said a senior Taliban commander based in Afghanistan on conditions of anonymity.

"There was no way we would allow permanent stay of US forces in Afghanistan after signing a peace deal with them," he said, adding that Taliban will provide complete assurance that no foreign militant group will be allowed to use Afghanistan to launch attacks against the United States and its allies.

Leaders of the insurgent group have repeatedly stated that a ceasefire or talks with the Afghan government and civil society members will not take place until the United States announces a plan for foreign force withdrawal from Afghanistan.

US President Donald Trump wants combat forces reduced in Afghanistan by the next US presidential election in November 2020, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said last month.

Uncertainty

Fighting in Afghanistan has not subsided. More than 1,500 civilians were killed and injured in July, a record monthly toll this year, and the highest number documented in a month since May 2017, United Nations of Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said in a statement on Saturday.

Many Afghans fear a US troop withdrawal announcement will weaken their bargaining power with the hardline Islamist group, which aims to re-establish an Islamic emirate to replace an elected government it dismisses as puppets of foreign forces.

Women’s rights groups in particular worry about the fate of women and girls in the event of a return of the Taliban, who banned girls’ education and imposed severe restrictions on women’s rights to work outside the home.

The sense of uncertainty revolving around the peace talks has become a source of distress with many Afghans fearing a complete collapse of law and order if the United States fails to protect basic freedom guaranteed under the Afghan constitution.

In June, Pompeo said he hoped for a peace deal with the Taliban before September 1.

"The Americans are being hasty to sign the deal. Right now it feels like we will wake up one morning and find the Taliban government has been installed," said Mustafa Karimi, a shopkeeper in Kabul whose brother was killed last year by the Taliban during clashes with Afghan forces.

"Taliban often use Afghan civilians as human shields and now the US are also putting our lives at risk to exit out of Afghanistan," he said.

"We are doomed if the peace talks don't protect our basic rights and freedom."

A fresh round of US-Taliban peace talks began in Qatar's capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

A fresh round of US-Taliban peace talks began in Qatar's capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan. Senior officials privy to the talks said a peace agreement could be expected at the end of the eighth round of talks, possibly before August 13, and would enable foreign forces to be withdrawn from the war-torn country. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US peace envoy for Afghanistan who has held a series of meetings with Taliban leaders since last year, reached Doha on Friday night. "Just got to Doha to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement," Khalilzad wrote on Twitter. "A peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our (US) presence in Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based," he said, adding the Taliban are signalling they would conclude an agreement. "We are ready for a good agreement." Two sources with knowledge of the talks said an agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees by the Taliban is expected before August 13 About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are now in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. The hardline Islamist Taliban group now controls more territory than at any point since the United States bombed them out of power in 2001. Two Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen and Zabihullah Mujahid said a 19-member Taliban negotiation team will represent them in the Doha peace talks. "The issue of forces withdrawal has prolonged the peace talks and delayed the deal," said a senior Taliban commander based in Afghanistan on conditions of anonymity. "There was no way we would allow permanent stay of US forces in Afghanistan after signing a peace deal with them," he said, adding that Taliban will provide complete assurance that no foreign militant group will be allowed to use Afghanistan to launch attacks against the United States and its allies. Leaders of the insurgent group have repeatedly stated that a ceasefire or talks with the Afghan government and civil society members will not take place until the United States announces a plan for foreign force withdrawal from Afghanistan. US President Donald Trump wants combat forces reduced in Afghanistan by the next US presidential election in November 2020, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said last month. Uncertainty Fighting in Afghanistan has not subsided. More than 1,500 civilians were killed and injured in July, a record monthly toll this year, and the highest number documented in a month since May 2017, United Nations of Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said in a statement on Saturday. Many Afghans fear a US troop withdrawal announcement will weaken their bargaining power with the hardline Islamist group, which aims to re-establish an Islamic emirate to replace an elected government it dismisses as puppets of foreign forces. Women’s rights groups in particular worry about the fate of women and girls in the event of a return of the Taliban, who banned girls’ education and imposed severe restrictions on women’s rights to work outside the home. The sense of uncertainty revolving around the peace talks has become a source of distress with many Afghans fearing a complete collapse of law and order if the United States fails to protect basic freedom guaranteed under the Afghan constitution. In June, Pompeo said he hoped for a peace deal with the Taliban before September 1. "The Americans are being hasty to sign the deal. Right now it feels like we will wake up one morning and find the Taliban government has been installed," said Mustafa Karimi, a shopkeeper in Kabul whose brother was killed last year by the Taliban during clashes with Afghan forces. "Taliban often use Afghan civilians as human shields and now the US are also putting our lives at risk to exit out of Afghanistan," he said. "We are doomed if the peace talks don't protect our basic rights and freedom."

New round of US-Taliban talks open in Doha amid hope for peace deal

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-taliban-peace-talks-the-only-losers-in-the-settlement-will-be-afghans-236552">Taliban</a> have indicated that they are willing to sign the peace agreement, US Special Representative for Peace in Afghanistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/zalmay-khalilzad-to-visit-afghanistan-to-finalise-us-taliban-peace-deal-possibly-by-september-1-237275">Zalmay Khalilzad</a> said on Friday.

"The Taliban are signaling they would like to conclude an agreement. We are ready for a good agreement", Khalilzad wrote on Twitter.

The Ambassador arrived in Qatar`s capital city of Doha earlier in the day for a crucial round of peace negotiations between the US and the Taliban aimed at ending the 18 year long war in Afghanistan.

The two sides are getting closer to a deal centered around the latter`s promise to withdraw its troops from the war torn country, in exchange for the guarantee by the former that the Afghan soil, particularly the areas under the Taliban`s control, would not become a platform for transnational terrorism.

In a separate tweet, Khalilzad said that the US sees the deal as a "peace agreement" and the withdrawal of its troops would be "conditions based".

"Just got to #Doha to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a #peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement; a peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our presence in #Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based," Khalilzad wrote.

Suhail Shaheen, the spokesperson for the Taliban's political office in Qatar, had recently told the Voice of America that they are hopeful of reaching an agreement with the United States during the upcoming talks.

Shaheen added that the Taliban negotiators have done their part and it is now up to the American side whether they have "made up their mind" and take the next step of winding up the dialogue process.

Understandably, once the agreement between the US and the Taliban is inked, it will require the latter to immediately enter into negotiations with Afghan stakeholders.

It may be noted that the Taliban, so far, have consistently refused to hold direct talks with President Ashraf Ghani's government, denouncing it as a puppet administration.&nbsp;

The Taliban have indicated that they are willing to sign the peace agreement, US Special Representative for Peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad said on Friday.

The Taliban have indicated that they are willing to sign the peace agreement, US Special Representative for Peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad said on Friday. "The Taliban are signaling they would like to conclude an agreement. We are ready for a good agreement", Khalilzad wrote on Twitter. The Ambassador arrived in Qatar`s capital city of Doha earlier in the day for a crucial round of peace negotiations between the US and the Taliban aimed at ending the 18 year long war in Afghanistan. The two sides are getting closer to a deal centered around the latter`s promise to withdraw its troops from the war torn country, in exchange for the guarantee by the former that the Afghan soil, particularly the areas under the Taliban`s control, would not become a platform for transnational terrorism. In a separate tweet, Khalilzad said that the US sees the deal as a "peace agreement" and the withdrawal of its troops would be "conditions based". "Just got to #Doha to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a #peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement; a peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our presence in #Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based," Khalilzad wrote. Suhail Shaheen, the spokesperson for the Taliban's political office in Qatar, had recently told the Voice of America that they are hopeful of reaching an agreement with the United States during the upcoming talks. Shaheen added that the Taliban negotiators have done their part and it is now up to the American side whether they have "made up their mind" and take the next step of winding up the dialogue process. Understandably, once the agreement between the US and the Taliban is inked, it will require the latter to immediately enter into negotiations with Afghan stakeholders. It may be noted that the Taliban, so far, have consistently refused to hold direct talks with President Ashraf Ghani's government, denouncing it as a puppet administration.

Taliban indicated a willingness to strike a peace deal: Zalmay Khalilzad

The extreme heat waves that enveloped parts of Western Europe last month were made much more likely and intense by human induced climate change, a study has found.

A recent report from the World Weather Attribution group has suggested that the continuous days of extreme heat that hit countries like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-of-35-employees-trial-of-france-telecom-bosses-nears-the-end-235117">France</a> and Netherlands would have been a once in a millennium occurrence without the climate change but was made up to 100 times more probable as a result of it.

In the UK and Germany, the event is less rare (with estimated return periods of around 10-30 years in the current climate) and the likelihood is about 10 times higher (at least 3 times) due to climate change, the study added.

Though in all these countries, the temperature would have been 1.5 to 3 degrees celsius lower without climate change.

The said group has analyzed all seven heatwaves in the 21st century in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-continue-to-reduce-nuclear-deal-commitments-unless-europe-protects-iran-from-us-sanctions-javad-zarif-239698">Europe</a> (2003, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018, and June 2019), and found that each one was made more likely and more intense due to human induced climate change.

"The July 2019 heatwave was so extreme over continental Western Europe that the observed magnitudes would have been extremely unlikely without climate change," the report concluded.&nbsp;

The extreme heat waves that enveloped parts of Western Europe last month were made much more likely and intense by human induced climate change, a study has found.

The extreme heat waves that enveloped parts of Western Europe last month were made much more likely and intense by human induced climate change, a study has found. A recent report from the World Weather Attribution group has suggested that the continuous days of extreme heat that hit countries like France and Netherlands would have been a once in a millennium occurrence without the climate change but was made up to 100 times more probable as a result of it. In the UK and Germany, the event is less rare (with estimated return periods of around 10-30 years in the current climate) and the likelihood is about 10 times higher (at least 3 times) due to climate change, the study added. Though in all these countries, the temperature would have been 1.5 to 3 degrees celsius lower without climate change. The said group has analyzed all seven heatwaves in the 21st century in Europe (2003, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018, and June 2019), and found that each one was made more likely and more intense due to human induced climate change. "The July 2019 heatwave was so extreme over continental Western Europe that the observed magnitudes would have been extremely unlikely without climate change," the report concluded.

European heatwave fueled by human-induced climate change, study finds

An accountability court here on Friday turned down an application filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) seeking permission to probe the jailed former prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-judge-who-jailed-nawaz-sharif-sacked-over-blackmail-claims-235327">Nawaz Sharif</a> in connection with the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

Accountability judge Mohammad Bashir returned the application by the NAB, saying the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain it, reported Dawn.

The probe agency has alleged that millions of rupees have been laundered under the mill's names.

The investigation that started in October 2018, revealed that Nawaz, Maryam, and Shahbaz Sharif and a few foreigners were shareholders.

The evidence against the owners of the sugar mills came to the fore during the investigation against Shehbaz Sharif and his sons Hamza and Salman in money laundering and income beyond means case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-maryam-nawaz-announces-nationwide-protest-to-demand-justice-for-jailed-father-236550">Maryam Nawaz</a>, the daughter of Nawaz, was questioned before the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in Lahore today in connection with the case.

The accountability watchdog had also summoned Maryam`s siblings, Hassan Nawaz, and Hussain Nawaz, on suspicion of being stakeholders in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills, Dunya News reported.

Moreover, the accountability watchdog has also ordered Abbas Sharif`s son Abdul Aziz to appear before the investigation team.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz president Shehbaz Sharif is also likely to be called by the bureau in the same case.

The NAB has purportedly traced numerous telegraphic transfers (TTs) worth millions of rupees by the Sharif family The NAB has launched another investigation against members of Sharif family, and in this regard, the bureau, for the first time, summoned Yousuf Abbas on July 23 and recorded his statement.

An accountability court here on Friday turned down an application filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) seeking permission to probe the jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in connection with the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

An accountability court here on Friday turned down an application filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) seeking permission to probe the jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in connection with the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case. Accountability judge Mohammad Bashir returned the application by the NAB, saying the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain it, reported Dawn. The probe agency has alleged that millions of rupees have been laundered under the mill's names. The investigation that started in October 2018, revealed that Nawaz, Maryam, and Shahbaz Sharif and a few foreigners were shareholders. The evidence against the owners of the sugar mills came to the fore during the investigation against Shehbaz Sharif and his sons Hamza and Salman in money laundering and income beyond means case. Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, was questioned before the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in Lahore today in connection with the case. The accountability watchdog had also summoned Maryam`s siblings, Hassan Nawaz, and Hussain Nawaz, on suspicion of being stakeholders in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills, Dunya News reported. Moreover, the accountability watchdog has also ordered Abbas Sharif`s son Abdul Aziz to appear before the investigation team. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz president Shehbaz Sharif is also likely to be called by the bureau in the same case. The NAB has purportedly traced numerous telegraphic transfers (TTs) worth millions of rupees by the Sharif family The NAB has launched another investigation against members of Sharif family, and in this regard, the bureau, for the first time, summoned Yousuf Abbas on July 23 and recorded his statement.

Pakistan accountability court turns down NAB request to probe Nawaz Sharif

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-government-opposition-hold-talks-in-barbados-as-maduro-slams-sanctions-240348">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Friday said he rejected US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's statement about a possible blockade of the South American country, adding that its seas would remain "free and independent."&nbsp;

Maduro said he had asked Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations, Samuel Moncada, to denounce the "illegal" threat to the UN&nbsp;Security Council.&nbsp;

"All of Venezuela, in a civic-military union, repudiates and rejects the statements of Donald Trump about a supposed quarantine, of a supposed blockade," Maduro said in a state television broadcast. "A blockade, why would he announce that? It is clearly illegal."&nbsp;

The United States has applied sanctions and diplomatic pressure to try to get Maduro, whom it accuses of human rights violations and stealing the Venezuelan election last year, to step down.

On Thursday, when asked by a reporter whether he was considering such a measure given involvement by China and Iran in Venezuela, Trump said: "Yes, I am." He gave no details.

On Friday, a senior US&nbsp;official said Trump`s word on the issue should be taken "very seriously" but that the administration did not want to give away "the element of surprise."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he rejected US President Donald Trump's statement about a possible blockade of the South American country, adding that its seas would remain "free and independent.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he rejected US President Donald Trump's statement about a possible blockade of the South American country, adding that its seas would remain "free and independent." Maduro said he had asked Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations, Samuel Moncada, to denounce the "illegal" threat to the UN Security Council. "All of Venezuela, in a civic-military union, repudiates and rejects the statements of Donald Trump about a supposed quarantine, of a supposed blockade," Maduro said in a state television broadcast. "A blockade, why would he announce that? It is clearly illegal." The United States has applied sanctions and diplomatic pressure to try to get Maduro, whom it accuses of human rights violations and stealing the Venezuelan election last year, to step down. On Thursday, when asked by a reporter whether he was considering such a measure given involvement by China and Iran in Venezuela, Trump said: "Yes, I am." He gave no details. On Friday, a senior US official said Trump`s word on the issue should be taken "very seriously" but that the administration did not want to give away "the element of surprise."

Maduro says he 'repudiates' Trump statement on possible Venezuela blockade

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-converge-on-hong-kong-police-headquarters-in-anti-govt-demonstration-229127">Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong</a> kicked off a new mass rally on Saturday as they defy increasingly stern warnings from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-state-media-criticise-foreign-hypocrisy-over-hong-kong-after-climbdown-227824">China </a>over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis.

The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms.

Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tear-gas-rubber-bullets-fired-at-hong-kong-protesters-near-beijings-office-239035">hardening stance</a>, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested.

But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple rallies and marches throughout the weekend and into next week, sending tensions soaring once more.

Thousands of protesters filled a park in the densely populated neighbourhood of Mongkok, which has previously seen clashes between police and demonstrators, listening to speeches and shouting slogans.

Police initially denied activists permission to march through the neighbourhood but later allowed it after an appeal.

Watch- Hong Kong protests: Civil servants join protest

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protests-civil-servants-join-protest-240370/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Two marches are also planned for Sunday -- one on Hong Kong island and the other in the Tseung Kwan O district -- as well as a city-wide strike on Monday and rallies in seven locations.

The call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts, with a host of organisations and unions vowing to join.

- Sliding freedoms -

Hong Kong has witnessed eight consecutive weekends of huge rallies -- often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland.

The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds.&nbsp;

A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in hospital.

Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including this week charging 44 protesters with rioting -- an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail.

Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and has made few public appearances.

Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders.

On Friday evening, thousands attended a rally organised by members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service -- a remarkable development as they called on their paymasters to meet the protesters' demands.

Many civil servants wore surgical masks to hide their identities after the government warned that employees should show "total loyalty" and could be punished for attending.

Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags.&nbsp;

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong kicked off a new mass rally on Saturday as they defy increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis.

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong kicked off a new mass rally on Saturday as they defy increasingly stern warnings from China over weeks-long unrest that has plunged the city into crisis. The semi-autonomous southern Chinese financial hub has seen two months of protests and clashes triggered by opposition to a planned extradition law that quickly evolved into a wider movement for democratic reforms. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing this week signalled a hardening stance, including with the arrests of dozens of protesters, and the Chinese military saying it was ready to quell the "intolerable" unrest if requested. But protesters have remained unyielding, vowing to hold multiple rallies and marches throughout the weekend and into next week, sending tensions soaring once more. Thousands of protesters filled a park in the densely populated neighbourhood of Mongkok, which has previously seen clashes between police and demonstrators, listening to speeches and shouting slogans. Police initially denied activists permission to march through the neighbourhood but later allowed it after an appeal. Watch- Hong Kong protests: Civil servants join protest × Two marches are also planned for Sunday -- one on Hong Kong island and the other in the Tseung Kwan O district -- as well as a city-wide strike on Monday and rallies in seven locations. The call for strike action appears to be gaining more traction than previous walkouts, with a host of organisations and unions vowing to join. - Sliding freedoms - Hong Kong has witnessed eight consecutive weekends of huge rallies -- often followed by violent clashes between police and small groups of hardcore protesters. Under the terms of the 1997 handover deal, the city has rights and liberties unseen on the mainland, including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those rights are being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Public anger has been compounded by rising inequality and the perception that the city's distinct language and culture are being threatened by ever-closer integration with the Chinese mainland. The past two weekends have seen a surge in violence used by both protesters and police, who have repeatedly fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse projectile-throwing crowds. A mob of pro-government thugs also attacked protesters, putting 45 people in hospital. Hong Kong's police have increasingly adopted tougher tactics, including this week charging 44 protesters with rioting -- an offence that carries up to 10 years in jail. Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam has made few concessions beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill and has made few public appearances. Protesters are demanding her resignation, an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill and the right to elect their leaders. On Friday evening, thousands attended a rally organised by members of Hong Kong's usually tight-lipped civil service -- a remarkable development as they called on their paymasters to meet the protesters' demands. Many civil servants wore surgical masks to hide their identities after the government warned that employees should show "total loyalty" and could be punished for attending. Thousands of pro-government supporters also held a rally in a separate park on Saturday, many waving Chinese flags.

Hong Kong protesters defy China warnings with weekend rallies

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-proposes-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-with-riders-239957">Pakistan</a> has thrown open the historic 19th century old Gurdwara Chowa Sahib in Punjab province for pilgrims, seventy two years after Partition.

Gurdwara Chowa Sahib located at the northern edge of the Rohtas Fort near Punjab`s Jhelum City was opened for public on Friday. This comes in the run up to the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in November.

Commissioned by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Gurdwara was constructed in 1834.

"A multi-million project will be initiated by the federal government for restoration of the gurdwara situated in Rohtas Fort near Jhelum," Express Tribune quoted Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETBP) Secretary Shrines Imran Gondal as saying.

This comes days after the Pakistan government reopened 1,000 year old Shawala Teja Singh Temple located in Pakistan`s Sialkot.&nbsp;

In a similar development, a 500-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiromani-gurdwara-parbandhak-committee-invites-imran-khan-to-attend-nagar-kirtan-235291">Gurdwara</a> in Sialkot recently opened its doors for Indian Sikh pilgrims.

While the Gurdwara earlier remained open for pilgrims from Pakistan, as well as Europe, Canada, and the United States, the Indian pilgrims were not allowed to visit the holy place.

Pakistan has thrown open the historic 19th century old Gurdwara Chowa Sahib in Punjab province for pilgrims, seventy two years after Partition. Gurdwara Chowa Sahib located at the northern edge of the Rohtas Fort near Punjab`s Jhelum City was opened for public on Friday.

Pakistan has thrown open the historic 19th century old Gurdwara Chowa Sahib in Punjab province for pilgrims, seventy two years after Partition. Gurdwara Chowa Sahib located at the northern edge of the Rohtas Fort near Punjab`s Jhelum City was opened for public on Friday. This comes in the run up to the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in November. Commissioned by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Gurdwara was constructed in 1834. "A multi-million project will be initiated by the federal government for restoration of the gurdwara situated in Rohtas Fort near Jhelum," Express Tribune quoted Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETBP) Secretary Shrines Imran Gondal as saying. This comes days after the Pakistan government reopened 1,000 year old Shawala Teja Singh Temple located in Pakistan`s Sialkot. In a similar development, a 500-year-old Gurdwara in Sialkot recently opened its doors for Indian Sikh pilgrims. While the Gurdwara earlier remained open for pilgrims from Pakistan, as well as Europe, Canada, and the United States, the Indian pilgrims were not allowed to visit the holy place.

72-year after Partition, Pakistan opens 19th century Gurdwara

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Punitipandey

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.