India at the United Nations slammed Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-goofs-up-at-unga-calls-pm-modi-indian-president-252548">Imran Khan's UNGA speech </a>and described it as "misuse, rather abuse, of an 
opportunity to reflect".

India's delegate at UN General Assembly and first secretary, Ministry of External Affairs Vidisha Maitra stated that the General Assembly has rarely witnessed the "invocation of phrases such as 'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.'"

She added that such an act "reflects a medieval mindset and not a 21st century vision". Maitra was addressing the UN in India's right to reply.&nbsp;

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Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary MEA exercises India's right of reply to Pakistan PM Imran Khan's speech: PM Imran Khan's threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship not statesmanship. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/m1VRCwZHRg">pic.twitter.com/m1VRCwZHRg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1177777928639148033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Unfortunately, what we heard today from Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan was a callous portrayal of the world in binary terms. Us vs them; rich versus poor; North versus South; developed versus&nbsp;developing; Muslims versus others. A script that fosters divisiveness at the United Nations. Attempts to sharpen differences and stir up hatred, are simply put - 'hate speech'," Maitra told the Assembly.&nbsp;

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"Prime Minister Khan’s threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship, not statesmanship... his justification of terrorism was brazen and incendiary," Maitra said, asking the Pak PM to address the following questions:

1. Can Pakistan confirm the fact that it is home to 130 UN designated terrorists and 25 terrorist entities listed by the UN, as of today?

2. Will Pakistan acknowledge that it is the only government in the world that provides pension to an individual listed by the UN in the Al Qaeda and Da’esh Sanctions list!

3. Can Pakistan explain why here in New York, its premier bank, the Habib Bank had to shut shop after it was fined millions of dollars over terror financing?

4. Will Pakistan deny that the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)&nbsp; has put the country on notice for its violations of more than 20 of the 27 key parameters?

5. Would Prime Minister Khan deny to the city of New York that he was an open defender of Osama bin Laden?

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Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary MEA exercises India's right of reply to Pakistan PM Imran Khan's speech: Can Pakistan PM confirm that it is home to 130 UN designated terrorists and 25 terrorist entities listed by the UN? <a href="https://t.co/fIaUmPIHBH">pic.twitter.com/fIaUmPIHBH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1177779877551865856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Maitra stated that Pakistan is "trying to play its wild card as the newfound champion of human rights," adding that the size of Pakistan's minority population has shrunk from 23 per cent in 1947 to a mere 3 per cent today.

"This a country that has shrunk the size of its minority community from 23 per cent in 1947 to 3 per cent today and has subjected Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyas, Hindus, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Balochis to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuse and forced conversions," she told the UN.

Dismissing the Kashmir rant by Imran Khan, which constituted around 20 minutes of his 40 minute speech, India said, "While Pakistan has ventured to upstream terrorism and downstream hate speech there, India is going ahead with mainstreaming development in Jammu and Kashmir."&nbsp;

Adding, "mainstreaming of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, in India’s thriving and vibrant democracy with a millennia-old heritage of diversity, pluralism and tolerance is well and truly underway. Irreversibly so". 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-the-biggest-global-challenge-for-humanitys-sake-lets-unite-against-terrorism-says-pm-narendra-modi-at-unga-252493">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> in his UNGA address on Friday said that that terrorism is a challenge not for any one country, but for the entire world.

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that "we believe that terrorism is not a challenge for any country, but all countries and of mankind as a whole. So for the sake of humanity, all the world has to unite against terror".

Speaking at the 74th UNGA session, PM Modi recounted India's contribution towards world peace and said that India is the country that has made the biggest sacrifice at the United Nations peacekeeping missions.&nbsp;

Interestingly, PM Modi's in his speech did not mention Pakistan even once.&nbsp;

India at the United Nations slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's UNGA speech and described it as "misuse, rather abuse, of an opportunity to reflect". India's delegate at UN General Assembly and first secretary, Ministry of External Affairs Vidisha Maitra stated that the General Assembly has rarely witnessed the "invocation of phrases such as 'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.

India at the United Nations slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's UNGA speech and described it as "misuse, rather abuse, of an opportunity to reflect". India's delegate at UN General Assembly and first secretary, Ministry of External Affairs Vidisha Maitra stated that the General Assembly has rarely witnessed the "invocation of phrases such as 'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.'" She added that such an act "reflects a medieval mindset and not a 21st century vision". Maitra was addressing the UN in India's right to reply. Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary MEA exercises India's right of reply to Pakistan PM Imran Khan's speech: PM Imran Khan's threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship not statesmanship. #UNGA pic.twitter.com/m1VRCwZHRg — ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2019 × "Unfortunately, what we heard today from Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan was a callous portrayal of the world in binary terms. Us vs them; rich versus poor; North versus South; developed versus developing; Muslims versus others. A script that fosters divisiveness at the United Nations. Attempts to sharpen differences and stir up hatred, are simply put - 'hate speech'," Maitra told the Assembly. × "Prime Minister Khan’s threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship, not statesmanship... his justification of terrorism was brazen and incendiary," Maitra said, asking the Pak PM to address the following questions: 1. Can Pakistan confirm the fact that it is home to 130 UN designated terrorists and 25 terrorist entities listed by the UN, as of today? 2. Will Pakistan acknowledge that it is the only government in the world that provides pension to an individual listed by the UN in the Al Qaeda and Da’esh Sanctions list! 3. Can Pakistan explain why here in New York, its premier bank, the Habib Bank had to shut shop after it was fined millions of dollars over terror financing? 4. Will Pakistan deny that the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has put the country on notice for its violations of more than 20 of the 27 key parameters? 5. Would Prime Minister Khan deny to the city of New York that he was an open defender of Osama bin Laden? Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary MEA exercises India's right of reply to Pakistan PM Imran Khan's speech: Can Pakistan PM confirm that it is home to 130 UN designated terrorists and 25 terrorist entities listed by the UN? pic.twitter.com/fIaUmPIHBH — ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2019 × Maitra stated that Pakistan is "trying to play its wild card as the newfound champion of human rights," adding that the size of Pakistan's minority population has shrunk from 23 per cent in 1947 to a mere 3 per cent today. "This a country that has shrunk the size of its minority community from 23 per cent in 1947 to 3 per cent today and has subjected Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyas, Hindus, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Balochis to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuse and forced conversions," she told the UN. Dismissing the Kashmir rant by Imran Khan, which constituted around 20 minutes of his 40 minute speech, India said, "While Pakistan has ventured to upstream terrorism and downstream hate speech there, India is going ahead with mainstreaming development in Jammu and Kashmir." Adding, "mainstreaming of Jammu & Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, in India’s thriving and vibrant democracy with a millennia-old heritage of diversity, pluralism and tolerance is well and truly underway. Irreversibly so". Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his UNGA address on Friday said that that terrorism is a challenge not for any one country, but for the entire world. Addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that "we believe that terrorism is not a challenge for any country, but all countries and of mankind as a whole. So for the sake of humanity, all the world has to unite against terror". Speaking at the 74th UNGA session, PM Modi recounted India's contribution towards world peace and said that India is the country that has made the biggest sacrifice at the United Nations peacekeeping missions. Interestingly, PM Modi's in his speech did not mention Pakistan even once.

Would Pak PM deny that he was an open defender of Osama bin Laden?: India at UN

On Friday, the world witnessed two global leaders address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-tale-of-two-speeches-heres-how-modi-changed-the-tone-this-year-at-unga-252543">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>'s speech focused on growth and development, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-pm-imran-khans-unga-speech-reflection-of-medieval-mindset-abuse-of-opportunity-to-reflect-india-at-un-252555">Pakistan PM Imran Khan</a> harped on the Kashmir issue and delivered a speech which had phrases such as "'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.'"

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> engagements at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> : Climate change, universal health, sanitation, interaction with Fortune 500 companies, Bloomberg's Economic Forum, Mahatma Gandhi, bilateral meetings, CARICOM &amp; Pacific Islands plurilaterals, a dignified &amp; statesman-like address at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/87Z4bBNMhm">pic.twitter.com/87Z4bBNMhm</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1177645541993435136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Undeniably, there were stark differences between the speeches delivered by the prime minister and his Pakistani counterpart.&nbsp;

"PM @narendramodi engagements at #UNGA: Climate change, universal health, sanitation, interaction with Fortune 500 companies, Bloomberg's Economic Forum, Mahatma Gandhi, bilateral meetings, CARICOM &amp; Pacific Islands plurilaterals, a dignified and statesman-like address at the #UNGA," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeting out, adding in other post the fact that Khan's address encouraged "terrorism, war mongering, falsehood, deceit and misuse of the highest global platform".

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But then, not everyone feels that there is life beyond the jingoism of nuclear war, jihad, encouraging terrorism, war mongering, falsehood, deceit and misuse of the highest global platform. <a href="https://t.co/p67KjjKFrS">pic.twitter.com/p67KjjKFrS</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1177645558326054912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi's UNGA address

The world listened as PM Modi narrated India's growth story. It was a proud moment for India. During his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Modi touched upon various issues including development, security, counter-terrorism, and climate change, stating that India's message to the world was that of peace and harmony.

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Khan's UNGA speech

Pakistan at UNGA seemed to have taken a cue from India as Pak PM brushed on the issue of climate change and urged countries with maximum greenhouse emission to take a call on the situation. Khan's speech quickly took a turn when he began speaking on Islamophobia and ended up warning of nuclear war at the global forum.

A last-ditch effort was made to internalise the Kashmir issue as Khan talked about minority and human rights while turning a blind eye to the state of minorities in his country and ignoring the plight of Uighurs in China.

Pak PM's speech in numbers&nbsp;

While PM Modi didn't even mention Pakistan in his UNGA address, Khan's speech came studded with terms like India (mentioned 16 times in his speech), Modi (12), RSS (10), Hindu (5), Balakot.

Kashmir figured over 20 times in Khan's UNGA address while Islam was mention over 70 times.&nbsp;

Going overboard!

The Pak PM spoke at the UN General Assembly for nearly an hour with nearly 25 minutes dedicated to raking up the Kashmir issue; PM Modi's address lasted slightly over 15 minutes.&nbsp;

Khan goofed up during his maiden UNGA speech calling PM Modi as India's "president".

India at the UN today exercised its 'right to reply' and slammed Khan for his "hate speech"

India's delegate at UN General Assembly and first secretary, Ministry of External Affairs Vidisha Maitra stated that the General Assembly has rarely witnessed the "invocation of phrases such as 'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.'"

She added that such an act "reflects a medieval mindset and not a 21st-century vision".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, what we heard today from Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan was a callous portrayal of the world in binary terms. Us vs them; rich versus poor; North versus South; developed versus developing; Muslims versus others. A script that fosters divisiveness at the United Nations. Attempts to sharpen differences and stir up hatred, are simply put - 'hate speech'," Maitra told the Assembly.&nbsp;

On Friday, the world witnessed two global leaders address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). While Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech focused on growth and development, Pakistan PM Imran Khan harped on the Kashmir issue and delivered a speech which had phrases such as "'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.

On Friday, the world witnessed two global leaders address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). While Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech focused on growth and development, Pakistan PM Imran Khan harped on the Kashmir issue and delivered a speech which had phrases such as "'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.'" PM @narendramodi engagements at #UNGA : Climate change, universal health, sanitation, interaction with Fortune 500 companies, Bloomberg's Economic Forum, Mahatma Gandhi, bilateral meetings, CARICOM & Pacific Islands plurilaterals, a dignified & statesman-like address at the #UNGA pic.twitter.com/87Z4bBNMhm — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) September 27, 2019 × Undeniably, there were stark differences between the speeches delivered by the prime minister and his Pakistani counterpart. "PM @narendramodi engagements at #UNGA: Climate change, universal health, sanitation, interaction with Fortune 500 companies, Bloomberg's Economic Forum, Mahatma Gandhi, bilateral meetings, CARICOM & Pacific Islands plurilaterals, a dignified and statesman-like address at the #UNGA," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeting out, adding in other post the fact that Khan's address encouraged "terrorism, war mongering, falsehood, deceit and misuse of the highest global platform". But then, not everyone feels that there is life beyond the jingoism of nuclear war, jihad, encouraging terrorism, war mongering, falsehood, deceit and misuse of the highest global platform. pic.twitter.com/p67KjjKFrS — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) September 27, 2019 × PM Modi's UNGA address The world listened as PM Modi narrated India's growth story. It was a proud moment for India. During his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Modi touched upon various issues including development, security, counter-terrorism, and climate change, stating that India's message to the world was that of peace and harmony. × Khan's UNGA speech Pakistan at UNGA seemed to have taken a cue from India as Pak PM brushed on the issue of climate change and urged countries with maximum greenhouse emission to take a call on the situation. Khan's speech quickly took a turn when he began speaking on Islamophobia and ended up warning of nuclear war at the global forum. A last-ditch effort was made to internalise the Kashmir issue as Khan talked about minority and human rights while turning a blind eye to the state of minorities in his country and ignoring the plight of Uighurs in China. Pak PM's speech in numbers While PM Modi didn't even mention Pakistan in his UNGA address, Khan's speech came studded with terms like India (mentioned 16 times in his speech), Modi (12), RSS (10), Hindu (5), Balakot. Kashmir figured over 20 times in Khan's UNGA address while Islam was mention over 70 times. Going overboard! The Pak PM spoke at the UN General Assembly for nearly an hour with nearly 25 minutes dedicated to raking up the Kashmir issue; PM Modi's address lasted slightly over 15 minutes. Khan goofed up during his maiden UNGA speech calling PM Modi as India's "president". India at the UN today exercised its 'right to reply' and slammed Khan for his "hate speech" India's delegate at UN General Assembly and first secretary, Ministry of External Affairs Vidisha Maitra stated that the General Assembly has rarely witnessed the "invocation of phrases such as 'pogrom', 'bloodbath', 'racial superiority', 'pick up the gun' and 'fight to the end.'" She added that such an act "reflects a medieval mindset and not a 21st-century vision". "Unfortunately, what we heard today from Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan was a callous portrayal of the world in binary terms. Us vs them; rich versus poor; North versus South; developed versus developing; Muslims versus others. A script that fosters divisiveness at the United Nations. Attempts to sharpen differences and stir up hatred, are simply put - 'hate speech'," Maitra told the Assembly.

How PM Modi's 'positive', development-driven UNGA address differed from Pak PM's 'hate speech'

India's sacthing reply to Pak's rant, says 'Pak PM abused opportunity at UN'. Watch video to know more.

India's scathing reply to Pak's rant, says 'Pak PM abused opportunity at UN'

At The U.N. General Assembly, PM Modi Addresses Global Issues While Pakistan's Imran Khan Resorts To Making Nuclear Threats

Gravitas U.S Edition: Big UNGA Faceoff: The Contrasting Tales Of Two Prime Ministers (Part 2)

President Donald Trump told two Russian officials in a 2017 meeting that he was not concerned about Moscow's meddling in the US&nbsp;election, which prompted White House officials to limit access to the remarks, the Washington Post reported on Friday.

A summary of Trump's Oval Office meeting with Russia's foreign minister and its ambassador to the US&nbsp;was limited to a few officials in an attempt to keep the president's comments from being disclosed publicly, the Post said, citing former officials with knowledge of the matter.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

A whistleblower complaint about a July phone call in which Trump urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic political rival Joe Biden is at the heart of the US&nbsp;House of Representatives impeachment inquiry launched this week.

A member of the US&nbsp;intelligence community who filed the complaint against Trump said notes from other conversations the president had with foreign leaders had been placed on a highly classified computer system in a departure from normal practice in a bid to protect information that was politically sensitive, rather than sensitive for national security reasons.

Trump's 2017 meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Ambassador Sergei Kislyak was already considered controversial after it was learned that Trump disclosed highly classified information about a planned Islamic State operation.

On election interference, Trump told Lavrov and Kislyak he was not concerned about Russian meddling because the United States did the same in other countries, the Post reported.

CNN, citing people familiar with the matter, said efforts to limit access to Trump's conversations with foreign leaders extended to phone calls with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway told reporters that procedures for handling records of Trump's conversations with world leaders had changed early in his tenure after calls with Mexico's president and Australia's prime minister were leaked.

President Donald Trump told two Russian officials in a 2017 meeting that he was not concerned about Moscow's meddling in the US election, which prompted White House officials to limit access to the remarks, the Washington Post reported on Friday.

President Donald Trump told two Russian officials in a 2017 meeting that he was not concerned about Moscow's meddling in the US election, which prompted White House officials to limit access to the remarks, the Washington Post reported on Friday. A summary of Trump's Oval Office meeting with Russia's foreign minister and its ambassador to the US was limited to a few officials in an attempt to keep the president's comments from being disclosed publicly, the Post said, citing former officials with knowledge of the matter. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. A whistleblower complaint about a July phone call in which Trump urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic political rival Joe Biden is at the heart of the US House of Representatives impeachment inquiry launched this week. A member of the US intelligence community who filed the complaint against Trump said notes from other conversations the president had with foreign leaders had been placed on a highly classified computer system in a departure from normal practice in a bid to protect information that was politically sensitive, rather than sensitive for national security reasons. Trump's 2017 meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Ambassador Sergei Kislyak was already considered controversial after it was learned that Trump disclosed highly classified information about a planned Islamic State operation. On election interference, Trump told Lavrov and Kislyak he was not concerned about Russian meddling because the United States did the same in other countries, the Post reported. CNN, citing people familiar with the matter, said efforts to limit access to Trump's conversations with foreign leaders extended to phone calls with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin. White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway told reporters that procedures for handling records of Trump's conversations with world leaders had changed early in his tenure after calls with Mexico's president and Australia's prime minister were leaked.

Trump told Russians in 2017 he was not concerned about election meddling: Report

Afghans headed to the polls amid tight security Saturday as voting got under way in the presidential election, following a bloody campaign that has been marred by repeated attacks across Afghanistan.

The Taliban, who already have unleashed a string of bombings, have in recent days issued repeated warnings they intend to attack polling centres and have told voters to stay away.

"Voting has begun all over the country, and we are glad the people are already in big lines at polling centres waiting to cast their votes," Independent Election Commission spokesman Zabi Sadaat told AFP.

Wary authorities have placed an uneasy Kabul under partial lockdown, flooding streets with troops and banning trucks from entering the city in an effort to stop would-be suicide bombers attacking the electoral process.

One voter at a polling station in a Kabul high school said it was important to cast a ballot.

"I know there are security threats but bombs and attacks have become part of our everyday lives," 55-year-old Mohiuddin, who only gave one name, told AFP.

"I am not afraid, we have to vote if we want to bring changes to our lives."

The capital's traffic, often gridlocked, dropped to a trickle as schools and offices closed for the day and as many people chose to stay off the roads.

Some 9.6 million Afghans are registered to vote, but many have lost any hope that after 18 years of war any leader can unify the fractious country and improve basic living conditions, boost the stagnating economy or bolster security.

Several of the 18 original contenders have dropped out and the poll is considered a two-horse race between current President Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive.

Both claimed victory in the 2014 election -- a vote so tainted by fraud and violence that it led to a constitutional crisis and forced then-US president Barack Obama to push for a compromise that saw Abdullah awarded the subordinate role.

- Abysmal security - 
Voting in Afghanistan's fourth presidential election began at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) at some 5,000 polling centres across the country. Authorities had initially planned to open hundreds more but were unable to owing to the abysmal security situation.

Campaigning was hampered by violence from the first day, when Ghani's running mate was targeted in a bomb-and-gun attack that left at least 20 dead.&nbsp;

Bloody attacks have continued to rock Afghanistan, including a Taliban bombing at a Ghani rally last week that killed at least 26 people in the central province of Parwan near Kabul.

The interior ministry says 72,000 forces will help to secure polling stations.

Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said: "Any acts of violence against the electoral process, including attacks directed at polling centres, polling staff and voters, are unacceptable."

Election officials say this will be the cleanest election yet held, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers to ensure the vote is fair.

Still, the US embassy in Kabul has said it is "disturbed by so many complaints about security, lack of an equal playing field and fraud" and many Afghans say they have no intention of voting, citing fraud and security fears.

Saturday's poll was initially slated to take place in April, but was twice delayed because election workers were ill-prepared, and the US was leading a push to forge a withdrawal agreement with the Taliban.&nbsp;

That deal has been scuppered for now after US President Donald Trump pulled out.

Polls close at 3:00 pm (1030 GMT).

Afghans headed to the polls amid tight security Saturday as voting got under way in the presidential election, following a bloody campaign that has been marred by repeated attacks across Afghanistan.

Afghans headed to the polls amid tight security Saturday as voting got under way in the presidential election, following a bloody campaign that has been marred by repeated attacks across Afghanistan. The Taliban, who already have unleashed a string of bombings, have in recent days issued repeated warnings they intend to attack polling centres and have told voters to stay away. "Voting has begun all over the country, and we are glad the people are already in big lines at polling centres waiting to cast their votes," Independent Election Commission spokesman Zabi Sadaat told AFP. Wary authorities have placed an uneasy Kabul under partial lockdown, flooding streets with troops and banning trucks from entering the city in an effort to stop would-be suicide bombers attacking the electoral process. One voter at a polling station in a Kabul high school said it was important to cast a ballot. "I know there are security threats but bombs and attacks have become part of our everyday lives," 55-year-old Mohiuddin, who only gave one name, told AFP. "I am not afraid, we have to vote if we want to bring changes to our lives." The capital's traffic, often gridlocked, dropped to a trickle as schools and offices closed for the day and as many people chose to stay off the roads. Some 9.6 million Afghans are registered to vote, but many have lost any hope that after 18 years of war any leader can unify the fractious country and improve basic living conditions, boost the stagnating economy or bolster security. Several of the 18 original contenders have dropped out and the poll is considered a two-horse race between current President Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive. Both claimed victory in the 2014 election -- a vote so tainted by fraud and violence that it led to a constitutional crisis and forced then-US president Barack Obama to push for a compromise that saw Abdullah awarded the subordinate role. - Abysmal security - Voting in Afghanistan's fourth presidential election began at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) at some 5,000 polling centres across the country. Authorities had initially planned to open hundreds more but were unable to owing to the abysmal security situation. Campaigning was hampered by violence from the first day, when Ghani's running mate was targeted in a bomb-and-gun attack that left at least 20 dead. Bloody attacks have continued to rock Afghanistan, including a Taliban bombing at a Ghani rally last week that killed at least 26 people in the central province of Parwan near Kabul. The interior ministry says 72,000 forces will help to secure polling stations. Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said: "Any acts of violence against the electoral process, including attacks directed at polling centres, polling staff and voters, are unacceptable." Election officials say this will be the cleanest election yet held, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers to ensure the vote is fair. Still, the US embassy in Kabul has said it is "disturbed by so many complaints about security, lack of an equal playing field and fraud" and many Afghans say they have no intention of voting, citing fraud and security fears. Saturday's poll was initially slated to take place in April, but was twice delayed because election workers were ill-prepared, and the US was leading a push to forge a withdrawal agreement with the Taliban. That deal has been scuppered for now after US President Donald Trump pulled out. Polls close at 3:00 pm (1030 GMT).

Security tight as Afghans head to presidential polls

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held meetings with his counterparts from Bahrain, Chile, and Germany on the sidelines of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly.

"Reviewing the state of the world with German FM @HeikoMaas," the EAM tweeted on his meeting with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas.

"A good feeling as always to meet with Bahrain FM @khalidalkhalifa. Appreciated his many insights," he added while attaching a picture with the Foreign Minister of Bahrain, Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa.

Jaishankar also had a "warm conversation" with Chilean FM Teodoro Ribera Neumann on Friday.

The EAM accompanied Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his week-long trip to the US which culminated on Friday.

Earlier in the day, the PM had made his maiden speech at the UNGA after assuming power for the second term.

The Prime Minister held back-to-back meetings with world leaders, including his counterparts from Italy and Greece to name a few, during his official trip.

Modi also met US President Donald Trump twice during his visit, jointly addressing the mega 'Howdy Modi!'&nbsp;event with the former business mogul on Sunday and holding a bilateral on Tuesday.

The PM was also honoured with the Global Goalkeeper Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.

He had previously addressed the UN Climate Action Summit on Monday, where he reaffirmed India`s support to the fight against climate change. 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held meetings with his counterparts from Bahrain, Chile, and Germany on the sidelines of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held meetings with his counterparts from Bahrain, Chile, and Germany on the sidelines of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. "Reviewing the state of the world with German FM @HeikoMaas," the EAM tweeted on his meeting with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. "A good feeling as always to meet with Bahrain FM @khalidalkhalifa. Appreciated his many insights," he added while attaching a picture with the Foreign Minister of Bahrain, Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa. Jaishankar also had a "warm conversation" with Chilean FM Teodoro Ribera Neumann on Friday. The EAM accompanied Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his week-long trip to the US which culminated on Friday. Earlier in the day, the PM had made his maiden speech at the UNGA after assuming power for the second term. The Prime Minister held back-to-back meetings with world leaders, including his counterparts from Italy and Greece to name a few, during his official trip. Modi also met US President Donald Trump twice during his visit, jointly addressing the mega 'Howdy Modi!' event with the former business mogul on Sunday and holding a bilateral on Tuesday. The PM was also honoured with the Global Goalkeeper Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. He had previously addressed the UN Climate Action Summit on Monday, where he reaffirmed India`s support to the fight against climate change.

Jaishankar meets counterparts from Germany, Bahrain, Chile on UNGA sidelines

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Friday (local time) lauded the gradual growth in the Indian economy since liberalisation in the 1990s.

He made the statement while addressing the general debate of the 74th Session of the General Assembly.

Prime Minister Lee said, "India has grown steadily since the 1990s, with its economy gradually liberalised and becoming more enmeshed with its partners."

Prime Minister Loong was speaking on the topic of sustainable development of all countries across the globe.

"Sustainable development has become a priority for all countries," he said and added that everyone shares common challenges related to it such as creating jobs, raising standards of living, and eradicating poverty."But it is very difficult for any country to develop and progress on its own," he stressed.

Singapore Prime Minister also underlined that growth requires trade, investments and technologies.

The Prime Minister, at the same time, also referred to the overall economic development of the South Asian countries and reflected that China's accession to the World Trade Organisation in 2001 "presaged two decades of dramatic economic growth which lifted more than 850 million people out of poverty in the region."

Earlier in the day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had addressed the UNGA on a range of issues including climate change, development, and forming a united stand against terrorism.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Friday (local time) lauded the gradual growth in the Indian economy since liberalisation in the 1990s. He made the statement while addressing the general debate of the 74th Session of the General Assembly.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Friday (local time) lauded the gradual growth in the Indian economy since liberalisation in the 1990s. He made the statement while addressing the general debate of the 74th Session of the General Assembly. Prime Minister Lee said, "India has grown steadily since the 1990s, with its economy gradually liberalised and becoming more enmeshed with its partners." Prime Minister Loong was speaking on the topic of sustainable development of all countries across the globe. "Sustainable development has become a priority for all countries," he said and added that everyone shares common challenges related to it such as creating jobs, raising standards of living, and eradicating poverty."But it is very difficult for any country to develop and progress on its own," he stressed. Singapore Prime Minister also underlined that growth requires trade, investments and technologies. The Prime Minister, at the same time, also referred to the overall economic development of the South Asian countries and reflected that China's accession to the World Trade Organisation in 2001 "presaged two decades of dramatic economic growth which lifted more than 850 million people out of poverty in the region." Earlier in the day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had addressed the UNGA on a range of issues including climate change, development, and forming a united stand against terrorism.

Singapore PM lauds India's economic growth at United Nations

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that isolated places over Bihar, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency further stated that areas over Sub-Himalayan, West Bengal and Sikkim are also likely to receive heavy downpour throughout the day.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls very likely at isolated places over Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam and Meghalaya," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning are very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha and Odisha.

Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea and east Indian Ocean and adjoining the southwest Bay of Bengal.Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, is likely to prevail over north Bay of Bengal.

The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that isolated places over Bihar, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that isolated places over Bihar, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further stated that areas over Sub-Himalayan, West Bengal and Sikkim are also likely to receive heavy downpour throughout the day. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls very likely at isolated places over Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam and Meghalaya," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning are very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha and Odisha. Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea and east Indian Ocean and adjoining the southwest Bay of Bengal.Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, is likely to prevail over north Bay of Bengal. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.

IMD predicts heavy rainfall for Bihar, Himachal Pradesh

The Central Bank of Nepal on Friday released three coins to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev. 
 
The coins with denomination of NPR (Nepali Rupees) 100, 1000 and 2500 were jointly launched by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Chiranjibi Nepal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri at Hotel Aloft in Kathmandu today. 
 
The coins possess monetary value and its sale will start from September 30, the NRB said. 
 
"Proud to be a Sikh today. Proud to be a follower of Guru Nanak Dev. Today, you can find Sikhs residing in every part of the world that too in large numbers," Puri told the crowd gathered to celebrate the occasion. 
 
Shortly after, Puri took to Twitter saying, "Honoring Nepal's Sikh Heritage Embassy of India releases special publication to mark 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji." 
 
On the occasion, both dignitaries also launched a book showcasing the Sikh heritage in Nepal. It has been published by BP Koirala India-Nepal Foundation in co-ordination with Embassy of India in Nepal. 
 
Before unveiling the book, Indian head of Mission gave a comprehensive presentation bringing out key aspects of the Sikh heritage in Nepal. 
 
The event was graced by the presence of Jathedar of Akal Takht S. Harpreet Singh, President of Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandhak Committee-Amritsar S. Gobind Singh Longowal. 
 
A few prominent Sikh leaders from Punjab, including Charanjeet Singh Atwal, and former Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha also participated in the event.&nbsp;

The Central Bank of Nepal on Friday released three coins to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev. The coins with denomination of NPR (Nepali Rupees) 100, 1000 and 2500 were jointly launched by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Chiranjibi Nepal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri at Hotel Aloft in Kathmandu today.

The Central Bank of Nepal on Friday released three coins to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev. The coins with denomination of NPR (Nepali Rupees) 100, 1000 and 2500 were jointly launched by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Chiranjibi Nepal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri at Hotel Aloft in Kathmandu today. The coins possess monetary value and its sale will start from September 30, the NRB said. "Proud to be a Sikh today. Proud to be a follower of Guru Nanak Dev. Today, you can find Sikhs residing in every part of the world that too in large numbers," Puri told the crowd gathered to celebrate the occasion. Shortly after, Puri took to Twitter saying, "Honoring Nepal's Sikh Heritage Embassy of India releases special publication to mark 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji." On the occasion, both dignitaries also launched a book showcasing the Sikh heritage in Nepal. It has been published by BP Koirala India-Nepal Foundation in co-ordination with Embassy of India in Nepal. Before unveiling the book, Indian head of Mission gave a comprehensive presentation bringing out key aspects of the Sikh heritage in Nepal. The event was graced by the presence of Jathedar of Akal Takht S. Harpreet Singh, President of Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandhak Committee-Amritsar S. Gobind Singh Longowal. A few prominent Sikh leaders from Punjab, including Charanjeet Singh Atwal, and former Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha also participated in the event.

Nepal Central Bank issues three coins to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev's birth anniversary

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-set-busy-schedule-ahead-of-china-national-day-252568">Hong Kong protesters</a> were rebuilding Lennon Walls of anti-government graffiti on Saturday as they marked the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" democracy movement that gridlocked the territory for weeks. 
 
A series of pro- and anti-Beijing protests are&nbsp;planned for the Chinese-ruled city ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China on Tuesday, including at the consulate of former colonial power Britain. 
 
Anti-government protesters have attacked the legislature, Beijing's main Liaison Office, occupied the airport, thrown petrol bombs at police, vandalised metro stations and set street fires in more than three months of unrest. 
 
Police have responded with tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets and occasional live rounds fired into the air.

"They are not our children," China supporter Yau Mei-kwang said of the frontline activists. "Because at this age, they should be studying, not running to the airport, hitting people, hitting the police, insulting people. That is not right."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-umbrella-protests-sowed-seed-for-future-freed-activist-252402">A pro-democracy protester </a>who only gave his name as Wong defended the use of violence.

"We know that they will not listen if we rally in peace because we are not on the same level," he said. 
 
Some Lennon Walls were torn down by pro-Beijing activists last weekend. The large mosaics of Post-it notes calling for democracy have cropped up in underpasses, outside shopping centres, at bus stops and universities. 
 
The anti-government protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula guaranteeing freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland. 
 
China vehemently denies meddling. It has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of fanning anti-China sentiment.

'Not sure when protest will end'

The Lennon Walls are large mosaics of Post-it notes calling for democracy which have cropped up in underpasses, under footbridges, outside shopping centres, at bus stops and universities and elsewhere across the territory. 
 
Some were torn down by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-trap-carrie-lam-for-hours-in-stadium-after-open-dialogue-252281">pro-Beijing activists</a> last weekend. 
 
“Lennon Walls carry the spirit of civil disobedience from the Umbrella movement," said pro-democracy protester Kelvin Law, 24.

"I am not sure when this protest will end. Either we win or we lose. But as long as we are united and fight, generation after generation, we can achieve democracy." 
Protesters appealed to the British two weeks ago to rein in China and ensure it respects the city's freedoms.

Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, which lays out the "one country, two systems" arrangement. 
At the same time, it is pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with China, which since 1997 has risen to become the world's second-largest economy, after it leaves the European Union at the end of October. 
 
The protests were sparked in June by planned legislation, since withdrawn, that would have allowed the extradition of suspected criminals to mainland China. But they have since expanded into a broader pro-democracy movement. 
 
The student-led Umbrella protests that gridlocked the city for 79 days in 2014 failed to wrest concessions from Beijing. 
 
One of the leaders of those protests, the bespectacled Joshua Wong, 22, said on Saturday he will run for local district council elections in November.

"It's time to let Emperor Xi (Chinese President Xi Jinping) be aware that now is our battle," he told reporters. "...We stand in solidarity, we stand as one."

Wong is on bail after being charged with inciting and participating in an unauthorised assembly outside police headquarters on June 21. 
 
Various protests are expected on Saturday and Sunday, but the biggest are likely to be on Tuesday, marking the October&nbsp;1 anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. 
 
Activists plan a mass rally from Victoria Park in the bustling Causeway Bay district to Chater Garden, a cricket pitch back in colonial days, in downtown Central. 
Official festivities for National Day have been scaled back, with authorities keen to avoid embarrassing Beijing at a time when Xi is seeking to project an image of national strength and unity.

Hong Kong protesters were rebuilding Lennon Walls of anti-government graffiti on Saturday as they marked the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" democracy movement that gridlocked the territory for weeks.

Hong Kong protesters were rebuilding Lennon Walls of anti-government graffiti on Saturday as they marked the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" democracy movement that gridlocked the territory for weeks. A series of pro- and anti-Beijing protests are planned for the Chinese-ruled city ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China on Tuesday, including at the consulate of former colonial power Britain. Anti-government protesters have attacked the legislature, Beijing's main Liaison Office, occupied the airport, thrown petrol bombs at police, vandalised metro stations and set street fires in more than three months of unrest. Police have responded with tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets and occasional live rounds fired into the air. "They are not our children," China supporter Yau Mei-kwang said of the frontline activists. "Because at this age, they should be studying, not running to the airport, hitting people, hitting the police, insulting people. That is not right." A pro-democracy protester who only gave his name as Wong defended the use of violence. "We know that they will not listen if we rally in peace because we are not on the same level," he said. Some Lennon Walls were torn down by pro-Beijing activists last weekend. The large mosaics of Post-it notes calling for democracy have cropped up in underpasses, outside shopping centres, at bus stops and universities. The anti-government protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula guaranteeing freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland. China vehemently denies meddling. It has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of fanning anti-China sentiment. 'Not sure when protest will end' The Lennon Walls are large mosaics of Post-it notes calling for democracy which have cropped up in underpasses, under footbridges, outside shopping centres, at bus stops and universities and elsewhere across the territory. Some were torn down by pro-Beijing activists last weekend. “Lennon Walls carry the spirit of civil disobedience from the Umbrella movement," said pro-democracy protester Kelvin Law, 24. "I am not sure when this protest will end. Either we win or we lose. But as long as we are united and fight, generation after generation, we can achieve democracy." Protesters appealed to the British two weeks ago to rein in China and ensure it respects the city's freedoms. Britain says it has a legal responsibility to ensure China abides by the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, which lays out the "one country, two systems" arrangement. At the same time, it is pinning its hopes on closer trade and investment cooperation with China, which since 1997 has risen to become the world's second-largest economy, after it leaves the European Union at the end of October. The protests were sparked in June by planned legislation, since withdrawn, that would have allowed the extradition of suspected criminals to mainland China. But they have since expanded into a broader pro-democracy movement. The student-led Umbrella protests that gridlocked the city for 79 days in 2014 failed to wrest concessions from Beijing. One of the leaders of those protests, the bespectacled Joshua Wong, 22, said on Saturday he will run for local district council elections in November. "It's time to let Emperor Xi (Chinese President Xi Jinping) be aware that now is our battle," he told reporters. "...We stand in solidarity, we stand as one." Wong is on bail after being charged with inciting and participating in an unauthorised assembly outside police headquarters on June 21. Various protests are expected on Saturday and Sunday, but the biggest are likely to be on Tuesday, marking the October 1 anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. Activists plan a mass rally from Victoria Park in the bustling Causeway Bay district to Chater Garden, a cricket pitch back in colonial days, in downtown Central. Official festivities for National Day have been scaled back, with authorities keen to avoid embarrassing Beijing at a time when Xi is seeking to project an image of national strength and unity.

Hong Kong protesters rebuild 'Lennon Walls' ahead of China National Day

The United States on Friday reiterated that Pakistan should continue taking sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating on its soil to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability in the region in line with its international obligations. 
 
This comes after the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) had approved a request by Pakistan to allow global terrorist Hafiz Saeed to access his bank accounts for 'basic expenses' to help his family. 
 
"Basic exemption requests for U.N.-designated individuals are consistent with every member state's responsibilities regarding the disposition of funds to U.N.-designated individuals residing in their territory," a State Department spokesperson told ANI. 
 
"We continue to encourage all member states to fully abide by and implement their obligations under UN sanctions regimes. This includes submitting basic exemption requests for UN-designated individuals and entities, as needed," the spokesperson said. 
 
However, the spokesperson outlined that all member states are encouraged to take appropriate action to arrest and prosecute terrorists. 
"In line with its international obligations, Pakistan must continue to take sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability," the spokesperson remarked. 
 
In a letter dated August 15, the U.N. Sanctions Committee said it had received a letter from Pakistan seeking permission to allow Saeed "certain expenditure" from his frozen bank account. The Chair said that the request was approved after "no objection" had been received from any member. 
 
"The chair has the honour to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorise certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed (QDi.236), Haji Muhammad Ashraf (QDI.265) and Zafar Iqbal (QDI.308) to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)," the letter read. 
 
"The chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set dateline of 15 August 2019 at 3:00 p.m. for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved, and the chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," it said. 
 
Pakistan, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four. 
 
Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions. 
 
Saeed, who has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union, was the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that claimed 166 lives.&nbsp;

The United States on Friday reiterated that Pakistan should continue taking sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating on its soil to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability in the region in line with its international obligations.

The United States on Friday reiterated that Pakistan should continue taking sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating on its soil to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability in the region in line with its international obligations. This comes after the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) had approved a request by Pakistan to allow global terrorist Hafiz Saeed to access his bank accounts for 'basic expenses' to help his family. "Basic exemption requests for U.N.-designated individuals are consistent with every member state's responsibilities regarding the disposition of funds to U.N.-designated individuals residing in their territory," a State Department spokesperson told ANI. "We continue to encourage all member states to fully abide by and implement their obligations under UN sanctions regimes. This includes submitting basic exemption requests for UN-designated individuals and entities, as needed," the spokesperson said. However, the spokesperson outlined that all member states are encouraged to take appropriate action to arrest and prosecute terrorists. "In line with its international obligations, Pakistan must continue to take sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability," the spokesperson remarked. In a letter dated August 15, the U.N. Sanctions Committee said it had received a letter from Pakistan seeking permission to allow Saeed "certain expenditure" from his frozen bank account. The Chair said that the request was approved after "no objection" had been received from any member. "The chair has the honour to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorise certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed (QDi.236), Haji Muhammad Ashraf (QDI.265) and Zafar Iqbal (QDI.308) to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)," the letter read. "The chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set dateline of 15 August 2019 at 3:00 p.m. for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved, and the chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," it said. Pakistan, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four. Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions. Saeed, who has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union, was the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that claimed 166 lives.

Pakistan must take sustained and verifiable action against terrorists: United States

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