Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror.

Speaking at the 80th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Gurugram, where he was the chief guest, Doval said, "India will continue to act against terrorism and supporters of terrorist and the time and location will be decided by the leadership".

Paying homage to the CRPF security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, Doval said, "the country will never forget the sacrifices made by them".

Pakistan-based, United Nations-listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the Pulwama attack which is being described as the worst on Indian security personnel in the last 2 decades. Over 40 CRPF personnel died in the terror attack.

This is the first time Doval spoke at a public event since the Pulwama terror attack. There wasn't any cultural programme at the Raising Day celebrations this time as a mark of respect to the Pulwama martyrs.

Since the Pulwama attack, India has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status from Pakistan, increasing customs duty on Pak goods by 200 per cent. India also carried out a non-military, counter-terror strike on JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan. 
&nbsp;

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror.

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror. Speaking at the 80th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Gurugram, where he was the chief guest, Doval said, "India will continue to act against terrorism and supporters of terrorist and the time and location will be decided by the leadership". Paying homage to the CRPF security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, Doval said, "the country will never forget the sacrifices made by them". Pakistan-based, United Nations-listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the Pulwama attack which is being described as the worst on Indian security personnel in the last 2 decades. Over 40 CRPF personnel died in the terror attack. This is the first time Doval spoke at a public event since the Pulwama terror attack. There wasn't any cultural programme at the Raising Day celebrations this time as a mark of respect to the Pulwama martyrs. Since the Pulwama attack, India has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status from Pakistan, increasing customs duty on Pak goods by 200 per cent. India also carried out a non-military, counter-terror strike on JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan.

NSA Doval talks tough with Pakistan, says India will continue acting against terrorism and its supporters 

Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev, has said that Moscow is supportive of India in the recent India-Pak tensions in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Kudashev said Moscow is "most supportive of the Indian position upon the issue. On the issue of the recent flare-up. The recent attack of international terror."

"There is a large understanding of the global issue (between Russia and India). First and foremost on countering terror and terrorism, countering drugs and crime, there is a lot of understandings on other issues like regional development, a regional architecture for security and co-operation," Nikolay Kudashev added.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin and PM Modi have spoken two times this year. In his conversation with PM Modi on February 27, Putin expressed his deep condolences on the Pulwama terrorist attack and conveyed solidarity of the people of Russia with the people of India in the fight against terrorism.

Calling India "a great friend and a privileged strategic partner," the Russian envoy said ties between both the countries are "extremely close" and "very special".

He also told WION that the next India-Russia informal summit will take place this year "possibly in India." Last year, PM Modi and Putin meet in Sochi, Russia for an informal summit.

Later the Ambassador, speaking at an event in Delhi, also observed a minute of silence in the memory of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-and-times-of-manohar-parrikar-203926#parrikars-early-life-203917">former Goa CM Manohar Parrikar</a> and called him "a great statesman, a daring visionary, and a true friend of Russia", one who contributed "enormously to enhancing Russia India relationship".

Prime Minister Modi has been invited to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok later this year. Over 60 per cent of Indian defence equipment is of Russian origin. Last year, New Delhi approved the S-400 missile deal with the country despite Washington's hopes that India will not go ahead with the deal.&nbsp;

Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev, has said that Moscow is supportive of India in the recent India-Pak tensions in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev, has said that Moscow is supportive of India in the recent India-Pak tensions in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel. Speaking exclusively to WION, Kudashev said Moscow is "most supportive of the Indian position upon the issue. On the issue of the recent flare-up. The recent attack of international terror." "There is a large understanding of the global issue (between Russia and India). First and foremost on countering terror and terrorism, countering drugs and crime, there is a lot of understandings on other issues like regional development, a regional architecture for security and co-operation," Nikolay Kudashev added. Russian President Vladimir Putin and PM Modi have spoken two times this year. In his conversation with PM Modi on February 27, Putin expressed his deep condolences on the Pulwama terrorist attack and conveyed solidarity of the people of Russia with the people of India in the fight against terrorism. Calling India "a great friend and a privileged strategic partner," the Russian envoy said ties between both the countries are "extremely close" and "very special". He also told WION that the next India-Russia informal summit will take place this year "possibly in India." Last year, PM Modi and Putin meet in Sochi, Russia for an informal summit. Later the Ambassador, speaking at an event in Delhi, also observed a minute of silence in the memory of former Goa CM Manohar Parrikar and called him "a great statesman, a daring visionary, and a true friend of Russia", one who contributed "enormously to enhancing Russia India relationship". Prime Minister Modi has been invited to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok later this year. Over 60 per cent of Indian defence equipment is of Russian origin. Last year, New Delhi approved the S-400 missile deal with the country despite Washington's hopes that India will not go ahead with the deal.

Russian envoy reiterates support to India over tensions with Pak, calls Parrikar daring visionary

A technical meet of India and Pakistan officials happened at the proposed zero point of Kartarpur corridor on Tuesday and it was decided that experts would be doing the survey of the site and will discuss the alignment of the corridor.

Along with this, both sides in future would also hold meetings to discuss the coordinates and engineering aspects of the proposed crossing points.&nbsp;

Zero point is the point where the Indian side of the corridor and the Pakistani side of the corridor will be meeting. India had shared the coordinates point with Pakistan earlier this year but the Pakistani side gave alternate points.

India and Pakistani engineers and surveyors were also present in the meeting. New Delhi had been seeking this meeting for a long time and had suggested the meet to happen on February 15 but Islamabad had linked the meet with draft agreement.

WION was first to broke the new on February 9 that India had proposed engineers meet on February 15.

The outcomes of Tuesday's site visit would be further discussed at the meeting on April 2 when the second round of talks between Indian and Pakistani officials will take place in Wagha, Pakistan.&nbsp;

The first round was done on March 14 on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border.

While India has proposed that the corridor should be open to 5000 Indian citizens every day, Pakistan has said that they can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit.

A technical meet of India and Pakistan officials happened at the proposed zero point of Kartarpur corridor on Tuesday and it was decided that experts would be doing the survey of the site and will discuss the alignment of the corridor.

A technical meet of India and Pakistan officials happened at the proposed zero point of Kartarpur corridor on Tuesday and it was decided that experts would be doing the survey of the site and will discuss the alignment of the corridor. Along with this, both sides in future would also hold meetings to discuss the coordinates and engineering aspects of the proposed crossing points. Zero point is the point where the Indian side of the corridor and the Pakistani side of the corridor will be meeting. India had shared the coordinates point with Pakistan earlier this year but the Pakistani side gave alternate points. India and Pakistani engineers and surveyors were also present in the meeting. New Delhi had been seeking this meeting for a long time and had suggested the meet to happen on February 15 but Islamabad had linked the meet with draft agreement. WION was first to broke the new on February 9 that India had proposed engineers meet on February 15. The outcomes of Tuesday's site visit would be further discussed at the meeting on April 2 when the second round of talks between Indian and Pakistani officials will take place in Wagha, Pakistan. The first round was done on March 14 on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border. While India has proposed that the corridor should be open to 5000 Indian citizens every day, Pakistan has said that they can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit.

Kartarpur talks: India, Pakistan officials meet; experts to survey the site

India has said one of the seven Indian nationals, who was kidnapped in Baghlan province of Afghanistan in May 2018, has been brought back to India.

The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "We are grateful to the Government of Afghanistan for their support in securing the release and repatriation of the Indian national."

"We continue to work closely with the Government of Afghanistan for safe and early return of the remaining six Indian nationals," MEA added.

They were abducted in Bagh-e-Shamal village near the Pul-e-Khomri city which is the capital of northern Baghlan province in Afghanistan.

The abducted Indians were working in Indian company KEC headquartered in Mumbai. The company owns an electricity sub-station contract in the area.&nbsp;

More than 60 Indians were working for KEC on different projects across Afghanistan.

Baghlan governor's deputy spokesperson had confirmed to WION last year that Taliban had abducted seven Indian employees of KEC.

Indian external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had spoken to Afghanistan government. Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar had met Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani regarding the efforts for there release.

In 2016 Indian aid worker Judith D'Souza was kidnapped in Kabul and was released after 40 days.

India has said one of the seven Indian nationals, who was kidnapped in Baghlan province of Afghanistan in May 2018, has been brought back to India. The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "We are grateful to the Government of Afghanistan for their support in securing the release and repatriation of the Indian national.

India has said one of the seven Indian nationals, who was kidnapped in Baghlan province of Afghanistan in May 2018, has been brought back to India. The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "We are grateful to the Government of Afghanistan for their support in securing the release and repatriation of the Indian national." "We continue to work closely with the Government of Afghanistan for safe and early return of the remaining six Indian nationals," MEA added. They were abducted in Bagh-e-Shamal village near the Pul-e-Khomri city which is the capital of northern Baghlan province in Afghanistan. The abducted Indians were working in Indian company KEC headquartered in Mumbai. The company owns an electricity sub-station contract in the area. More than 60 Indians were working for KEC on different projects across Afghanistan. Baghlan governor's deputy spokesperson had confirmed to WION last year that Taliban had abducted seven Indian employees of KEC. Indian external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had spoken to Afghanistan government. Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar had met Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani regarding the efforts for there release. In 2016 Indian aid worker Judith D'Souza was kidnapped in Kabul and was released after 40 days.

Abducted Indian national brought back from Afghanistan

Massive harassment of Indian diplomats has been reported in Islamabad for which India has sent a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-summons-indian-diplomat-over-anti-pak-protest-in-new-delhi-198385"> "note verbale" to Pakistan</a> and asked Islamabad to not only investigate the incident but also share the results.

India has highlighted to the Pakistan foreign ministry how two Pakistan agency personnel have been seen following Indian High Commission's car on a daily basis.&nbsp;

The current instance of harassment of Indian diplomats took place from 8th to 11th March in which they were not only aggressively followed by Pakistan security personnel but constant surveillance was kept on them.

Pakistani security agency personnel have been seen approaching local security guards at officers residence and pressurising them to divulge information

On 8th March, the first secretary was aggressively tailed by Pak security agencies while going to a bank. On the same day, Indian naval advisor was tailed in the bike while going from chancellery to his residence

On 9th March, India's deputy high commissioner was followed by a bike wherever he went. The Indian Naval advisor was again followed on the second day, Indian officials said. Incidentally, Pakistan agency personnel kept surveillance in a car stationed in front of the residence of the naval adviser.

The harassment continued on 10th as well when Deputy High Commissioner(DHC) was aggressively followed by Pakistan security personnel. The Pakistani agency personnel were observed meeting local security guards and asked details regarding availability of the officer, details of occupants.&nbsp;

On 11th March, Indian naval adviser and military adviser were aggressively tailed while going from the residence to chancellery.&nbsp;

Other than this two other officers of Indian high commission in Islamabad have been receiving hoax calls for last few days.

New Delhi has reminded Pakistan that the incidents are a violation of Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations and safety and security of the Indian High Commission.

The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 and the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992.

India, Pakistan code of conduct of 1992 says safety and security of the premises of diplomatic personnel, their families shall be respected and protected. It also says intrusive and aggressive surveillance such as verbal and physical harassment shall not be allowed.

Indian diplomats harrassed: A timeline

March 8th:&nbsp; 
1st secretary, Naval advisor followed aggressively&nbsp;

March 9th:&nbsp; 
DHC, Naval advisor aggressively followed; surveillance in front of naval advisor residence

March 10th: 

DHC aggressively followed; surveillance in front of the house&nbsp;

March 11th: 

Naval adviser, military advisor aggressively followed

Massive harassment of Indian diplomats has been reported in Islamabad for which India has sent a "note verbale" to Pakistan and asked Islamabad to not only investigate the incident but also share the results.

Massive harassment of Indian diplomats has been reported in Islamabad for which India has sent a "note verbale" to Pakistan and asked Islamabad to not only investigate the incident but also share the results. India has highlighted to the Pakistan foreign ministry how two Pakistan agency personnel have been seen following Indian High Commission's car on a daily basis. The current instance of harassment of Indian diplomats took place from 8th to 11th March in which they were not only aggressively followed by Pakistan security personnel but constant surveillance was kept on them. Pakistani security agency personnel have been seen approaching local security guards at officers residence and pressurising them to divulge information On 8th March, the first secretary was aggressively tailed by Pak security agencies while going to a bank. On the same day, Indian naval advisor was tailed in the bike while going from chancellery to his residence On 9th March, India's deputy high commissioner was followed by a bike wherever he went. The Indian Naval advisor was again followed on the second day, Indian officials said. Incidentally, Pakistan agency personnel kept surveillance in a car stationed in front of the residence of the naval adviser. The harassment continued on 10th as well when Deputy High Commissioner(DHC) was aggressively followed by Pakistan security personnel. The Pakistani agency personnel were observed meeting local security guards and asked details regarding availability of the officer, details of occupants. On 11th March, Indian naval adviser and military adviser were aggressively tailed while going from the residence to chancellery. Other than this two other officers of Indian high commission in Islamabad have been receiving hoax calls for last few days. New Delhi has reminded Pakistan that the incidents are a violation of Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations and safety and security of the Indian High Commission. The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 and the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992. India, Pakistan code of conduct of 1992 says safety and security of the premises of diplomatic personnel, their families shall be respected and protected. It also says intrusive and aggressive surveillance such as verbal and physical harassment shall not be allowed. Indian diplomats harrassed: A timeline March 8th: 1st secretary, Naval advisor followed aggressively March 9th: DHC, Naval advisor aggressively followed; surveillance in front of naval advisor residence March 10th: DHC aggressively followed; surveillance in front of the house March 11th: Naval adviser, military advisor aggressively followed

Investigate harassment of our diplomats: India to Pakistan

United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s envoy to India, Ahmed Albanna on Monday said that his country did not mediate in India-Pakistan tensions that happened in February but did played an important role in reducing tension between the two countries.

In response to a question Albanna said, "We did not mediate. When we talk about mediation, it has to be requested from both parties and then after that. We tried to decrease the tension by that special relationship."

"We have played an important role in reducing tension. On the day of a big escalation, our Crown Prince spoke to PM Modi and PM Imran Khan. Our role was to give word of wisdom and trying to sort out difference in a peaceful manner. UAE played an important role," Albanna added.

PM Modi and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan spoke two times in the last three weeks.

On the issue of cross border terror emanating from Pakistan, the envoy said, "Without mentioning any specific person, name or country UAE has a long-standing in preventing, fighting act of terrorism and those radicalise, radical organisation, so we work with all partners, with many different countries, with all the countries in the region to make our region peaceful that we can live together and coexist".

Albanna also welcomed India's presence at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi saying New Delhi was invited because of special relationship shared by both the countries.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj represented India during the two-day OIC FMs meet in the country in early March. This is the first time India was invited as the guest of honour at the meet.

On oil import, one of the key commodities India imports from West Asia, Albanna said, UAE and Saudi Arabia covered the shortage of oil for India after Iran Sanction.

India and UAE ties have been on an upward trajectory with number of high levels visits between the two countries in the last few years with PM Modi visiting the country twice.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s envoy to India, Ahmed Albanna on Monday said that his country did not mediate in India-Pakistan tensions that happened in February but did played an important role in reducing tension between the two countries.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s envoy to India, Ahmed Albanna on Monday said that his country did not mediate in India-Pakistan tensions that happened in February but did played an important role in reducing tension between the two countries. In response to a question Albanna said, "We did not mediate. When we talk about mediation, it has to be requested from both parties and then after that. We tried to decrease the tension by that special relationship." "We have played an important role in reducing tension. On the day of a big escalation, our Crown Prince spoke to PM Modi and PM Imran Khan. Our role was to give word of wisdom and trying to sort out difference in a peaceful manner. UAE played an important role," Albanna added. PM Modi and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan spoke two times in the last three weeks. On the issue of cross border terror emanating from Pakistan, the envoy said, "Without mentioning any specific person, name or country UAE has a long-standing in preventing, fighting act of terrorism and those radicalise, radical organisation, so we work with all partners, with many different countries, with all the countries in the region to make our region peaceful that we can live together and coexist". Albanna also welcomed India's presence at Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi saying New Delhi was invited because of special relationship shared by both the countries. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj represented India during the two-day OIC FMs meet in the country in early March. This is the first time India was invited as the guest of honour at the meet. On oil import, one of the key commodities India imports from West Asia, Albanna said, UAE and Saudi Arabia covered the shortage of oil for India after Iran Sanction. India and UAE ties have been on an upward trajectory with number of high levels visits between the two countries in the last few years with PM Modi visiting the country twice.

We played important role in reducing India-Pak tensions: UAE envoy Ahmed Albanna

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their ties with Male emphasising its 'India First'&nbsp;policy. New Delhi, on the other&nbsp;hand, reiterated its commitment to the Indian Ocean island nation.

The Maldives also requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium which New Delhi is looking into. India recently gifted LED bulbs and LED street lights for the city of Malé.&nbsp;

Remember, External Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-sushma-swaraj-reviews-bilateral-issues-with-maldivian-counterpart-203886">Sushma Swaraj is on a 2-day trip to the Maldives</a>. This is the first full-fledged bilateral visit at the political level from India after Maldives' new government took office in November 2018.&nbsp;

In a joint statement, Maldives' foreign minister Abdulla Shahid "reiterated his Government’s India-First Policy and said that his government looks forward to working closely with the Government of India on all issues."

Maldives government also said that the country would remain sensitive towards India’s security and strategic concerns.&nbsp;

India said that it attaches the "highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives, which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding, and sensitivity."

External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj, said that in line with the "Government of India’s 'neighbourhood first' policy, India stands ready to fully support the Government of the Maldives in its socio-economic development."

Both sides have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region and strengthening coordination in enhancing regional maritime security.&nbsp;

The Maldives is a key country in the Indian Ocean region and lies in the heart of busy shipping lanes connecting Africa and Asia.

The Maldives has also announced that it will provide land in Hulhumalé Island in the north Maldives for the Indian Embassy. Male has also expressed support to India's candidature for the permanent membership of the UN Security Council and for a non-permanent seat for the year 2020-21.&nbsp;

During Swaraj's visit, three agreements were signed - Exemption from Visa Requirement for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports, Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects and Collaboration in the Field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.&nbsp;

PM Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the Maldives last year. After assuming office, Solih had visited New Delhi.&nbsp;

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their ties with Male emphasising its 'India First' policy. New Delhi, on the other hand, reiterated its commitment to the Indian Ocean island nation.

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their ties with Male emphasising its 'India First' policy. New Delhi, on the other hand, reiterated its commitment to the Indian Ocean island nation. The Maldives also requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium which New Delhi is looking into. India recently gifted LED bulbs and LED street lights for the city of Malé. Remember, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is on a 2-day trip to the Maldives. This is the first full-fledged bilateral visit at the political level from India after Maldives' new government took office in November 2018. In a joint statement, Maldives' foreign minister Abdulla Shahid "reiterated his Government’s India-First Policy and said that his government looks forward to working closely with the Government of India on all issues." Maldives government also said that the country would remain sensitive towards India’s security and strategic concerns. India said that it attaches the "highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives, which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding, and sensitivity." External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj, said that in line with the "Government of India’s 'neighbourhood first' policy, India stands ready to fully support the Government of the Maldives in its socio-economic development." Both sides have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region and strengthening coordination in enhancing regional maritime security. The Maldives is a key country in the Indian Ocean region and lies in the heart of busy shipping lanes connecting Africa and Asia. The Maldives has also announced that it will provide land in Hulhumalé Island in the north Maldives for the Indian Embassy. Male has also expressed support to India's candidature for the permanent membership of the UN Security Council and for a non-permanent seat for the year 2020-21. During Swaraj's visit, three agreements were signed - Exemption from Visa Requirement for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports, Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects and Collaboration in the Field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. PM Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the Maldives last year. After assuming office, Solih had visited New Delhi.

Maldives requests India to construct cricket stadium; New Delhi, Male reaffirm ties

Afghanistan Saturday summoned a Pakistan diplomat official from the Pakistani embassy in Kabul over Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remark on new government in Afghanistan.

The Afghan foreign ministery told the Pakistan diplomat that Imran Khan's remarks amounted to interfering in the internal affairs of the country and demanded an explanation to it.

The spokesperson of Afghanistan's foreign ministry Sibghatullah Ahmadi said, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked Pakistan Counselor for clarification on the recent remarks by Imran Khan regarding new government in the near future. The government of Afghanistan expressed its grave objection and deemed such remarks a flagrant interference in its intern affairs".

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MFA Summons PK Embassy's Counselor 
MFA asked PK Counselor 4 clarification on the recent rmks by PM Imran Khan regarding establishment of a new govt in near future. Gov I.R. AF expressed its grave objection on PK’s Gov&amp;deemed such rmrks a flagrant interference in its intern afrs. <a href="https://t.co/txdVIFZNjO">pic.twitter.com/txdVIFZNjO</a>
— Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sibghat_Ah/status/1106908027465187329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Speaking at a public gathering in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's&nbsp;Bajaur, Pakistani Prime Minister said, "A good government will soon be established in Afghanistan".&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;

Pakistani diplomatic sources confirmed the development and told WION that a Pakistani diplomat, precisely the third in command at the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul, holding the position of the first secretary namely Mr Adeel Khan was called for a verbal explanation over Pak PM Imran Khan’s comment by the Afghan foreign ministry on Saturday.

The sources added that Pakistan, in their response to the Afghan foreign ministry, stated that Imran Khan's remarks are "self-explanatory. His speech was in good faith, he talked about enduring regional peace and stability.”&nbsp;

Imran Khan's comments come&nbsp;in the backdrop of Islamabad's close ties with the Taliban and Pakistan's attempts to take control of the Afghan peace process.

This is for the second time a Pakistan diplomat has been summoned by Afghanistan in last one month. A few weeks ago Afghanistan summoned Zahid Nasrullah, the Pakistani envoy to Afghanistan after he said Afghan peace talks will be impacted if New Delhi retaliates after the Pulwama terror attack.

Afghanistan Saturday summoned a Pakistan diplomat official from the Pakistani embassy in Kabul over Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remark on new government in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan Saturday summoned a Pakistan diplomat official from the Pakistani embassy in Kabul over Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remark on new government in Afghanistan. The Afghan foreign ministery told the Pakistan diplomat that Imran Khan's remarks amounted to interfering in the internal affairs of the country and demanded an explanation to it. The spokesperson of Afghanistan's foreign ministry Sibghatullah Ahmadi said, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked Pakistan Counselor for clarification on the recent remarks by Imran Khan regarding new government in the near future. The government of Afghanistan expressed its grave objection and deemed such remarks a flagrant interference in its intern affairs". MFA Summons PK Embassy's Counselor MFA asked PK Counselor 4 clarification on the recent rmks by PM Imran Khan regarding establishment of a new govt in near future. Gov I.R. AF expressed its grave objection on PK’s Gov&deemed such rmrks a flagrant interference in its intern afrs. pic.twitter.com/txdVIFZNjO — Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) March 16, 2019 × Speaking at a public gathering in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bajaur, Pakistani Prime Minister said, "A good government will soon be established in Afghanistan". Meanwhile, Pakistani diplomatic sources confirmed the development and told WION that a Pakistani diplomat, precisely the third in command at the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul, holding the position of the first secretary namely Mr Adeel Khan was called for a verbal explanation over Pak PM Imran Khan’s comment by the Afghan foreign ministry on Saturday. The sources added that Pakistan, in their response to the Afghan foreign ministry, stated that Imran Khan's remarks are "self-explanatory. His speech was in good faith, he talked about enduring regional peace and stability.” Imran Khan's comments come in the backdrop of Islamabad's close ties with the Taliban and Pakistan's attempts to take control of the Afghan peace process. This is for the second time a Pakistan diplomat has been summoned by Afghanistan in last one month. A few weeks ago Afghanistan summoned Zahid Nasrullah, the Pakistani envoy to Afghanistan after he said Afghan peace talks will be impacted if New Delhi retaliates after the Pulwama terror attack.

Afghanistan summons Pakistan diplomat after Imran Khan's 'good government in Afghanistan soon' remark  

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14.

The assets were redeployed from the TROPEX 19 or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise which is the largest war games of the Indian navy and commenced on January 7.

The Navy in the release said," Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) sponsored terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14 led to the rapid redeployment of the Indian Navy for Operations in North Arabian Sea."

"The major combat units of the Indian Navy including the Carrier Battle Group with INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines and scores of other ships, submarines and aircraft swiftly transited from exercise to operational deployment mode as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated," he added.

JeM is a United Nations listed Pakistan based terror group responsible for the Pulwama attack, the worst attack on Indian security personnel in the last two decades.&nbsp;

Sixty ships of the Indian Navy, 12 ships of the Indian Coast Guard and 60 aircraft were part of TROPEX 19.

The Navy said, "The overwhelming superiority of the Indian Navy in all three dimensions forced the Pakistan Navy to remain deployed close to the Makran coast and not venture out in the open ocean."

During a&nbsp;joint press conference on February 28 by tri-services, it was informed that Indian Navy remained&nbsp;deployed as necessary to protect National Maritime Interests and prevent any misadventure by Pakistan in the maritime domain.

The tri-services press conference took place a day after Pakistan launched strikes against Indian military installations on February 27 in response to India's counter-terror operation against JeM terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan.&nbsp;

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba will be in Kochi on March 18 to preside over the debrief of TROPEX 19.

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14.

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14. The assets were redeployed from the TROPEX 19 or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise which is the largest war games of the Indian navy and commenced on January 7. The Navy in the release said," Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) sponsored terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14 led to the rapid redeployment of the Indian Navy for Operations in North Arabian Sea." "The major combat units of the Indian Navy including the Carrier Battle Group with INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines and scores of other ships, submarines and aircraft swiftly transited from exercise to operational deployment mode as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated," he added. JeM is a United Nations listed Pakistan based terror group responsible for the Pulwama attack, the worst attack on Indian security personnel in the last two decades. Sixty ships of the Indian Navy, 12 ships of the Indian Coast Guard and 60 aircraft were part of TROPEX 19. The Navy said, "The overwhelming superiority of the Indian Navy in all three dimensions forced the Pakistan Navy to remain deployed close to the Makran coast and not venture out in the open ocean." During a joint press conference on February 28 by tri-services, it was informed that Indian Navy remained deployed as necessary to protect National Maritime Interests and prevent any misadventure by Pakistan in the maritime domain. The tri-services press conference took place a day after Pakistan launched strikes against Indian military installations on February 27 in response to India's counter-terror operation against JeM terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba will be in Kochi on March 18 to preside over the debrief of TROPEX 19.

Indian Navy says INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines were deployed in northern Arabian Sea after Pulwama terror attack

India recently told the US that an elected political structure should remain in place post-US withdrawal from Afghanistan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was in Washington last week, met <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-says-real-strides-made-in-longest-taliban-talks-203078">United State's special envoy</a> to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad during which both discussed the peace process in strife-torn, landlocked South Asian country. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Zalmay Khalilzad said, "We are moving in the right direction. Briefed USG leaders and many others about the &nbsp;AfghanPeaceProcess including meetings with UNAMA SRSG Yamamato, Indian FS Gokhale &amp; Norwegian Dep FM Halvorsen."

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Back in DC. Depite a slight chill in the air yesterday, it feels like spring today. We are moving in the right direction. Briefed USG leaders and many others about the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfghanPeaceProcess?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AfghanPeaceProcess</a> including meetings with UNAMA SRSG Yamamato, Indian FS Gokhale &amp; Norwegian Dep FM Halvorsen. <a href="https://t.co/kueonVZUr9">pic.twitter.com/kueonVZUr9</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1106671922564263937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Withdrawal of US troops, Afghan territory not to be used by the terrorists, intra-Afghan dialogue and ceasefire are some of the key issues under discussion between US and Taliban.

Zalmay told Gokhale that when it comes to first two, there has been some progress and assured India once American troops leave, Afghan territory will not be used by any terror group or organisation including groups threatening India.

But Zalmay told that progress is yet to be made on Intra-Afghan dialogue and ceasefire. India has asked the US special envoy that given all the efforts made by the US and everyone in the last 18 years it is important that when US troops withdraw a political structure is left in position.&nbsp;

India is in favour of an elected political structure in Afghanistan post <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-taliban-resume-afghan-peace-talks-before-spring-fighting-season-199703">US withdrawal</a> instead of an interim administration since it is not constitutionally mandated nor it has the public endorsement.&nbsp;

India has been engaging inside Afghanistan and with the neighbouring countries --Iran, Central Asia, Russia and Saudi Arabia on the peace process in the south Asian country. India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled".

India last year participated at "unofficial level" at Moscow format talks by sending its former ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha and former Indian high commissioner to PakistanTCA Raghavan.

India recently told the US that an elected political structure should remain in place post-US withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was in Washington last week, met United State's special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad during which both discussed the peace process in strife-torn, landlocked South Asian country.

India recently told the US that an elected political structure should remain in place post-US withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was in Washington last week, met United State's special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad during which both discussed the peace process in strife-torn, landlocked South Asian country. In a tweet, Zalmay Khalilzad said, "We are moving in the right direction. Briefed USG leaders and many others about the AfghanPeaceProcess including meetings with UNAMA SRSG Yamamato, Indian FS Gokhale & Norwegian Dep FM Halvorsen." Back in DC. Depite a slight chill in the air yesterday, it feels like spring today. We are moving in the right direction. Briefed USG leaders and many others about the #AfghanPeaceProcess including meetings with UNAMA SRSG Yamamato, Indian FS Gokhale & Norwegian Dep FM Halvorsen. pic.twitter.com/kueonVZUr9 — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) March 15, 2019 × Withdrawal of US troops, Afghan territory not to be used by the terrorists, intra-Afghan dialogue and ceasefire are some of the key issues under discussion between US and Taliban. Zalmay told Gokhale that when it comes to first two, there has been some progress and assured India once American troops leave, Afghan territory will not be used by any terror group or organisation including groups threatening India. But Zalmay told that progress is yet to be made on Intra-Afghan dialogue and ceasefire. India has asked the US special envoy that given all the efforts made by the US and everyone in the last 18 years it is important that when US troops withdraw a political structure is left in position. India is in favour of an elected political structure in Afghanistan post US withdrawal instead of an interim administration since it is not constitutionally mandated nor it has the public endorsement. India has been engaging inside Afghanistan and with the neighbouring countries --Iran, Central Asia, Russia and Saudi Arabia on the peace process in the south Asian country. India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled". India last year participated at "unofficial level" at Moscow format talks by sending its former ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha and former Indian high commissioner to PakistanTCA Raghavan.

Elected political structure should remain in Afghanistan post pullout: India to US

China's ambassador to India said Sunday that the matter of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a global terrorist "will be resolved". He added that "this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations".&nbsp;

Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui told reporters Sunday that the Chinese side "fully understands" the matter regarding Masood Azhar's listing and that it understands India’s concerns.

Zhaohui added that after last year's summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, China, the cooperation between the two countries "is on right track".&nbsp;

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Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui to ANI: This matter (Masood Azhar on UNSC 1267 list) will be resolved, this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations. It will be resolved believe me. <a href="https://t.co/vSFhDZB9mu">pic.twitter.com/vSFhDZB9mu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1107175231532208129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We're satisfied with this cooperation and are optimistic about the future," the ambassador said during Holi celebrations at the Chinese Embassy in Delhi.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times last year starting with famous informal Wuhan summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of SCO, BRICS and G20.

Zhaohui's remarks come a day after India said, on Saturday, that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, will be listed as a global terrorist.&nbsp;

India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-show-patience-with-china-as-long-as-it-takes-india-on-blacklisting-masood-azhar-203687">India, on Saturday, expressed optimism</a> stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes".&nbsp;

China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made.

WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan.

A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul.

China's ambassador to India said Sunday that the matter of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a global terrorist "will be resolved". He added that "this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations".

China's ambassador to India said Sunday that the matter of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a global terrorist "will be resolved". He added that "this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations". Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui told reporters Sunday that the Chinese side "fully understands" the matter regarding Masood Azhar's listing and that it understands India’s concerns. Zhaohui added that after last year's summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, China, the cooperation between the two countries "is on right track". Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui to ANI: This matter (Masood Azhar on UNSC 1267 list) will be resolved, this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations. It will be resolved believe me. pic.twitter.com/vSFhDZB9mu — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2019 × "We're satisfied with this cooperation and are optimistic about the future," the ambassador said during Holi celebrations at the Chinese Embassy in Delhi. Indian Prime Minister and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times last year starting with famous informal Wuhan summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of SCO, BRICS and G20. Zhaohui's remarks come a day after India said, on Saturday, that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, will be listed as a global terrorist. India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations. India, on Saturday, expressed optimism stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes". China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made. WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan. A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul.

Masood Azhar 'issue will be resolved... this is only a technical hold': Chinese ambassador to India

India has said that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, will be listed as a global terrorist. India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations.

Three days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-defends-move-to-block-ban-on-jem-chief-masood-azhar-says-needs-time-to-conduct-thorough-probe-203277">China placed a "technical hold"</a> at the United Nations on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist, India has expressed optimism stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes".&nbsp;

India is encouraged by the fact that 14 out of 15 members of the UNSC backed the proposal which was introduced by US, UK and France in February end which shows Islamabad's isolation and its indictment on the issue of terror.

New Delhi has also clarified it will not be cutting any deal regarding Azhar's listing with any country as terror is a non-negotiable issue.&nbsp;

China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made.

WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan.

A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United States continues to support New Delhi. India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in Washington last week and met US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and US national security advisor John Bolton. India raised the issue of cross border terror emanating&nbsp;from Pakistan and its use of F16s in an offensive action against India on February 27.&nbsp;

The US has taken note of India's concerns and agreed to seriously look into the matter. New Delhi hopes the US will soon go public with Pakistan's use of F16s and AMRAAM missiles against India. The US pointed out that the weapon system was given to Pakistan at an earlier period in their ties.

The US appreciated the fact that India kept them informed in real time during New Delhi's counter-terror efforts and Pakistan's launch of military strikes.

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-hold-more-talks-with-india-on-blacklisting-masood-azhar-china-203655">China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions</a> with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in February.

India has said that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, will be listed as a global terrorist.

India has said that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, will be listed as a global terrorist. India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations. Three days after China placed a "technical hold" at the United Nations on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist, India has expressed optimism stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes". India is encouraged by the fact that 14 out of 15 members of the UNSC backed the proposal which was introduced by US, UK and France in February end which shows Islamabad's isolation and its indictment on the issue of terror. New Delhi has also clarified it will not be cutting any deal regarding Azhar's listing with any country as terror is a non-negotiable issue. China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made. WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan. A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul. Meanwhile, the United States continues to support New Delhi. India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in Washington last week and met US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and US national security advisor John Bolton. India raised the issue of cross border terror emanating from Pakistan and its use of F16s in an offensive action against India on February 27. The US has taken note of India's concerns and agreed to seriously look into the matter. New Delhi hopes the US will soon go public with Pakistan's use of F16s and AMRAAM missiles against India. The US pointed out that the weapon system was given to Pakistan at an earlier period in their ties. The US appreciated the fact that India kept them informed in real time during New Delhi's counter-terror efforts and Pakistan's launch of military strikes. Meanwhile, China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in February.

Will show patience with China 'as long as it takes': India on blacklisting Masood Azhar

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