The Pakistani Army on Thursday rejected any rift with Saudi Arabia and said the upcoming visit of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to the kingdom was pre-planned.

Army spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar addressed the media in Rawalpindi where he was asked about a media report that General Bajwa was going to Riyadh to fix some irritants in bilateral ties.

"The hearts of the Pakistani people beat with the Saudi people, so there is no need to raise questions on the relations," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-shah-mehmood-qureshi-postpones-press-briefing-after-remarks-on-saudi-arabia-319955">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi postpones press briefing after remarks on Saudi Arabia</a>

He said the upcoming visit of General Bajwa to Saudi Arabia was pre-planned and it was about military-to-military relations.

"There is no need to read too much into it. Everything is fine," he said.

Official sources said that Bajwa was expected to travel to the kingdom on Sunday.

Earlier, it was reported that historic ties between the two nations were under stress as Saudis were reluctant to call a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the Kashmir issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-chief-general-qamar-javed-bajwa-to-visit-saudi-arabia-in-quest-to-smooth-ties-320171">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties</a>

Last week, foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed his frustration in a TV interview when he warned that Pakistan would be forced to call a special meeting of the OIC.

The OIC is dominated by the Arab block led by Riyadh and due to increasing warmth in ties with India, Saudi and the UAE rulers are apparently not willing to oblige Pakistan.

In 2018, Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan a USD 3 billion loan and USD 3.2 billion oil credit facility to help its balance of payments crisis.

Pakistan has already paid back USD 1 billion two weeks ago to Saudi Arabia which has not so far obliged a request to extend the oil facility on deferred payments.

Reportedly, Riyadh was demanding payment of another USD 1 billion.

The Pakistani Army on Thursday rejected any rift with Saudi Arabia and said the upcoming visit of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to the kingdom was pre-planned.

The Pakistani Army on Thursday rejected any rift with Saudi Arabia and said the upcoming visit of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to the kingdom was pre-planned. Army spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar addressed the media in Rawalpindi where he was asked about a media report that General Bajwa was going to Riyadh to fix some irritants in bilateral ties. "The hearts of the Pakistani people beat with the Saudi people, so there is no need to raise questions on the relations," he said. Also read: Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi postpones press briefing after remarks on Saudi Arabia He said the upcoming visit of General Bajwa to Saudi Arabia was pre-planned and it was about military-to-military relations. "There is no need to read too much into it. Everything is fine," he said. Official sources said that Bajwa was expected to travel to the kingdom on Sunday. Earlier, it was reported that historic ties between the two nations were under stress as Saudis were reluctant to call a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the Kashmir issue. Also read: Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties Last week, foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed his frustration in a TV interview when he warned that Pakistan would be forced to call a special meeting of the OIC. The OIC is dominated by the Arab block led by Riyadh and due to increasing warmth in ties with India, Saudi and the UAE rulers are apparently not willing to oblige Pakistan. In 2018, Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan a USD 3 billion loan and USD 3.2 billion oil credit facility to help its balance of payments crisis. Pakistan has already paid back USD 1 billion two weeks ago to Saudi Arabia which has not so far obliged a request to extend the oil facility on deferred payments. Reportedly, Riyadh was demanding payment of another USD 1 billion.

Pakistan denies rift with Saudi Arabia

Pakistan government on Thursday filed a civil miscellaneous petition with the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the apex court's verdict regarding the extension of Army Chief Javed Qamar Bajwa's extension.

The petition asked that a stay order should remain in effect until a decision on the government's review petition on the verdict has been made, Dawn reported.

On November 28, 2019, the Supreme Court had asserted that the country's Army Act lacks clauses to justify Bajwa's extension and ordered the government to legislate on the Pakistan Army chief's extension/reappointment.

In response, the Pakistan government submitted a review petition against the top court's verdict, seeking it to be set aside asserting that the verdict has "glaring omissions and mistakes".

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday headed a cabinet meeting to approve proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act, Dawn reported.

The government will also introduce the amendment bill in Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter.

Bajwa is turning 60 this year.

Prime Minister Khan had extended Bajwa's tenure for another three years on August 19, 2019.

The extension was then challenged on the grounds that it is offensive to Article 243(4)(b) of the Constitution.

The case was initially filed by the Jurists'&nbsp;Foundation but after it asked to withdraw the case, the court decided to take it up against itself.

During the hearing, the court explored the scope of Article 243 of the Constitution, and the Pakistan Army Act, 1952.

On November 28, the court extended Bajwa's tenure by six months and ordered the government to make a law regulating such appointments.

The detailed 43-page written verdict in the case was released on December 16.

The judgement stated that the matter is being handed over to parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief.

It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief`s period of services and retirement age.&nbsp;

Pakistan government on Thursday filed a civil miscellaneous petition with the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the apex court's verdict regarding the extension of Army Chief Javed Qamar Bajwa's extension.

Pakistan government on Thursday filed a civil miscellaneous petition with the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the apex court's verdict regarding the extension of Army Chief Javed Qamar Bajwa's extension. The petition asked that a stay order should remain in effect until a decision on the government's review petition on the verdict has been made, Dawn reported. On November 28, 2019, the Supreme Court had asserted that the country's Army Act lacks clauses to justify Bajwa's extension and ordered the government to legislate on the Pakistan Army chief's extension/reappointment. In response, the Pakistan government submitted a review petition against the top court's verdict, seeking it to be set aside asserting that the verdict has "glaring omissions and mistakes". Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday headed a cabinet meeting to approve proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act, Dawn reported. The government will also introduce the amendment bill in Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. Bajwa is turning 60 this year. Prime Minister Khan had extended Bajwa's tenure for another three years on August 19, 2019. The extension was then challenged on the grounds that it is offensive to Article 243(4)(b) of the Constitution. The case was initially filed by the Jurists' Foundation but after it asked to withdraw the case, the court decided to take it up against itself. During the hearing, the court explored the scope of Article 243 of the Constitution, and the Pakistan Army Act, 1952. On November 28, the court extended Bajwa's tenure by six months and ordered the government to make a law regulating such appointments. The detailed 43-page written verdict in the case was released on December 16. The judgement stated that the matter is being handed over to parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief. It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief`s period of services and retirement age.

Pakistan government files petition seeking stay on Supreme Court verdict on Bajwa's extension

Pakistan government is expected to present an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday in order to validate the three-year extension to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khan-led-government-challenges-supreme-courts-decision-on-bajwas-tenure-270355">Supreme Court</a> in December had asserted that the country's Army Act lacks clauses to justify Bajwa's extension and ordered the government to legislate on the Pakistan Army chief's extension/reappointment.

Watch: Review plea filed on Bajwa's tenure

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Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday headed a cabinet meeting to approve proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

The government will also introduce the amendment bill in Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. Bajwa is turning 60 this year.

A cabinet member who attended Wednesday's meeting said that the amendments called to extend the maximum age limit of army chief to be 64 years in case of extension. However, the regular age limit of the Chief of Army staff will be 60 years. Moreover, it will be the decision of the prime minister whether an extension should be given.

Prime Minister Khan had extended Bajwa's tenure for another three years on August 19, 2019.

The extension was then challenged on the grounds that it is offensive to Article 243(4)(b) of the Constitution. The case was initially filed by the Jurists' Foundation but after it asked to withdraw the case, the court decided to take it up against itself. During the hearing, the court explored the scope of Article 243 of the Constitution, and the Pakistan Army Act, 1952.

On November 28, the court extended Bajwa's tenure by six months and ordered the government to make a law regulating such appointments. The detailed 43-page written verdict in the case was released on December 16.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sc-issues-detailed-verdict-on-army-chiefs-extension-268639">judgement</a> stated that the matter is being handed over to parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief.

It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief's period of services and retirement age.

The court while announcing the order had given six months to the government for the legislation on the matter from parliament.

Pakistan government is expected to present an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday in order to validate the three-year extension to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Pakistan government is expected to present an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday in order to validate the three-year extension to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The country's Supreme Court in December had asserted that the country's Army Act lacks clauses to justify Bajwa's extension and ordered the government to legislate on the Pakistan Army chief's extension/reappointment. Watch: Review plea filed on Bajwa's tenure × Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday headed a cabinet meeting to approve proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act. The government will also introduce the amendment bill in Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. Bajwa is turning 60 this year. A cabinet member who attended Wednesday's meeting said that the amendments called to extend the maximum age limit of army chief to be 64 years in case of extension. However, the regular age limit of the Chief of Army staff will be 60 years. Moreover, it will be the decision of the prime minister whether an extension should be given. Prime Minister Khan had extended Bajwa's tenure for another three years on August 19, 2019. The extension was then challenged on the grounds that it is offensive to Article 243(4)(b) of the Constitution. The case was initially filed by the Jurists' Foundation but after it asked to withdraw the case, the court decided to take it up against itself. During the hearing, the court explored the scope of Article 243 of the Constitution, and the Pakistan Army Act, 1952. On November 28, the court extended Bajwa's tenure by six months and ordered the government to make a law regulating such appointments. The detailed 43-page written verdict in the case was released on December 16. The judgement stated that the matter is being handed over to parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief. It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief's period of services and retirement age. The court while announcing the order had given six months to the government for the legislation on the matter from parliament.

Pakistan government to present amendment bill for Bajwa's extension as army chief

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter. #WION #QamarJavedBajwa

Pakistan: Review plea filed on Bajwa's tenure

Pakistan governments U-turn on Army chief General Bajwa's extension

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-gives-6-month-extension-to-army-chief-qamar-bajwa-265076">General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension</a> and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter.&nbsp;

Pakistan Supreme Court, last month, granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa stating that he will continue serving as Chief of Army Staff for six months. The Parliament was to decide on his further tenure.

The PTI government's move follows the retirement of Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa who had delivered the Bajwa's extension last month.&nbsp;

"The extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is for 6 months, subject to relative legislation through parliament which will decide his further tenure," Pak Chief Justice then ruled.

Pakistan's apex court, in its ruling last month, suspended the decision to extend Bajwa's tenure which was approved by the government for three years in August.

The top court cited a series of irregularities and ordered the government and the army to produce legal provisions and detailed arguments on the extending Bajwa's tenure for three years.

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter.

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter. Pakistan Supreme Court, last month, granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa stating that he will continue serving as Chief of Army Staff for six months. The Parliament was to decide on his further tenure. The PTI government's move follows the retirement of Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa who had delivered the Bajwa's extension last month. "The extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is for 6 months, subject to relative legislation through parliament which will decide his further tenure," Pak Chief Justice then ruled. Pakistan's apex court, in its ruling last month, suspended the decision to extend Bajwa's tenure which was approved by the government for three years in August. The top court cited a series of irregularities and ordered the government and the army to produce legal provisions and detailed arguments on the extending Bajwa's tenure for three years.

Pakistan: Imran Khan-led government challenges Supreme Court's decision on Bajwa's tenure

An investigation by a Pakistani media outlet has found that almost 95% of the trending political campaigns in Pakistan are boosted artificially to mislead the public.

Gravitas: Pakistan's keyboard warriors - trending hashtags for a price

Pakistan's Apex court slams Imran Khan govt over Bajwa's tenure. Watch video to know more.

Pakistan's Apex court slams Imran Khan govt over Bajwa's tenure

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-plan-for-federal-control-over-karachi-faces-backlash-netizens-demand-separate-nation-for-sindhis-249519">Pakistan Law Minister Farogh Naseem</a> resigned from his post on Tuesday to represent the government in a case regarding the country's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plea-filed-against-pakistans-chief-of-army-staff-for-being-non-muslim-263815"> Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa's</a> tenure extension in the Supreme Court on Wednesday, Railway Minister Sheikh Rasheed confirmed.

Dawn reported Rasheed as confirming that Naseem's resignation, which was tendered during a meeting of the Pakistan Cabinet today, had been accepted by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dutch-queen-maxima-arrives-in-pakistan-on-3-day-visit-264371">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>.

Naseem has 'voluntarily' resigned from the post as he would not have been able to represent the government in a case while being a federal minister, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar said, adding that once the assistance is complete, Naseem can return to the Cabinet following Khan's approval.

The development comes hours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-it-will-create-gender-based-violence-courts-228946">Chief Justice of Pakistan Asif Saeed Khosa </a>on Tuesday suspended till Wednesday a notification issued by Prime Minister's office on the extension of Bajwa's tenure.

Bajwa is due to retire from his post on November 29.

Pakistan Law Minister Farogh Naseem resigned from his post on Tuesday to represent the government in a case regarding the country's Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension in the Supreme Court on Wednesday, Railway Minister Sheikh Rasheed confirmed.

Pakistan Law Minister Farogh Naseem resigned from his post on Tuesday to represent the government in a case regarding the country's Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension in the Supreme Court on Wednesday, Railway Minister Sheikh Rasheed confirmed. Dawn reported Rasheed as confirming that Naseem's resignation, which was tendered during a meeting of the Pakistan Cabinet today, had been accepted by Prime Minister Imran Khan. Naseem has 'voluntarily' resigned from the post as he would not have been able to represent the government in a case while being a federal minister, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar said, adding that once the assistance is complete, Naseem can return to the Cabinet following Khan's approval. The development comes hours after Chief Justice of Pakistan Asif Saeed Khosa on Tuesday suspended till Wednesday a notification issued by Prime Minister's office on the extension of Bajwa's tenure. Bajwa is due to retire from his post on November 29.

Pakistan Law Minister resigns to represent government in Bajwa's tenure extension case

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-moves-islamabad-high-court-against-verdict-announcement-in-treason-case-against-musharraf-264539">Pakistan government</a> on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-supreme-court-puts-army-chief-bajwas-tenure-extension-on-hold-264579">Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa</a>, Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood said at a press conference, hours after the Supreme Court observed that the said regulation did not have a provision for the same.

Dawn reported Mehmood as saying at the conference that the amendment to Rule 255 of the Army Regulations has been made so as to "assist the court and clear matters" pertaining to the Army Chief's extension.

The move is in line with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-asks-party-not-to-worry-about-foreign-funding-case-263744"> Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>'s intention to grant an extension to Bajwa, he added.

Bajwa is due to retire from his post on November 29.

Pakistan government on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of country's Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood said at a press conference, hours after the Supreme Court observed that the said regulation did not have a provision for the same.

Pakistan government on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of country's Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood said at a press conference, hours after the Supreme Court observed that the said regulation did not have a provision for the same. Dawn reported Mehmood as saying at the conference that the amendment to Rule 255 of the Army Regulations has been made so as to "assist the court and clear matters" pertaining to the Army Chief's extension. The move is in line with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's intention to grant an extension to Bajwa, he added. Bajwa is due to retire from his post on November 29.

Pakistan government amends Army Regulations for Bajwa's tenure extension

Pakistan Supreme Court issues notice to the defence ministry.

SC puts a hold on Bajwa tenure extension

Imran Khan to head for a 3-day visit to China. This visit would come ahead of India-China talks as Xi Jinping to visit India for talks with PM Modi. Pakistan Army General Bajwa will be accompanying him during this visit.

Bajwa will accompany Imran for China visit, Pak Army losing faith in Imran Khan?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan's economy</a> has been going through a serious crisis for some time. Now, in a desperate attempt, the country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistans-economy-in-crisis-businessmen-ask-gen-bajwa-for-help-253577">business community</a> has sought help for Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.&nbsp;

The sequence of events indicates the weakening of Imran Khan's grip on power.

Businessmen of this Islamic Republic have pressed the panic button. And they went to meet the Army Chief — General Qamar Javed Bajwa — and asking him for help.

For a normal country, this would be odd. For Pakistan, this is par for the course.

It is a known fact that in Pakistan, its the army that calls the shots. But even by Pakistan's standards, this is unprecedented.

Watch: Pakistan's economy in crisis — Business leaders pin hopes on army generals

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General Bajwa has been privately meeting with top business leaders. Reports say as many as three such meetings have taken place so far.

These were held at heavily guarded military offices in Karachi — that's the financial capital of Pakistan. Some meetings were convened in Rawalpindi, which is home to the army headquarters.

Reports say that business leaders shared advice on how to fix Pakistan's economy.Businessmen in Pakistan are a worried lot. They wanted immediate action from the Imran Khan government — but that hasn't happened. &nbsp;

So they knocked on the doors of the army chief. And already, things are moving. Reports say there has been action on some requests.&nbsp;One report says that a meeting led to prompt decisions.

From there — instructions were dispatched to top government officials.The Pakistani government is downplaying these interactions.

A spokesman from Pakistan's finance ministry has denied claims of any interference from the military.At this stage, The businessmen of Pakistan are pinning their hopes on the generals.

They believe that the army chief has enough military power and clout to get things done.

Pakistan Army Chief General&nbsp;Qamar Javed Bajwa

General Bajwa isn't a regular army chief. He wears many hats. He is part of the high powered national development council.This is a 13-member body — that was set up by Imran Khan. It's job is to advise the Pakistan&nbsp;Prime Minister on long term economic policy.

So he was already directly involved in policymaking. These meetings are being called the beginning of a soft coup.And the army has a solid excuse, not that they need one. Pakistan's growth has plummeted to two point four per cent, the budget deficit — that's the difference between revenues and earnings — has spiked to nearly nine per cent.

Pakistan has secured a six billion dollar bailout from the international monetary fund to save its economy. But the bailout may not be enough.Pakistan owes six point seven billion dollars to china alone.

They need some experts to fight the economic battle. The reliance on generals may prove to be a costly mistake.

Pakistan's economy has been going through a serious crisis for some time. Now, in a desperate attempt, the country's business community has sought help for Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Pakistan's economy has been going through a serious crisis for some time. Now, in a desperate attempt, the country's business community has sought help for Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The sequence of events indicates the weakening of Imran Khan's grip on power. Businessmen of this Islamic Republic have pressed the panic button. And they went to meet the Army Chief — General Qamar Javed Bajwa — and asking him for help. For a normal country, this would be odd. For Pakistan, this is par for the course. It is a known fact that in Pakistan, its the army that calls the shots. But even by Pakistan's standards, this is unprecedented. Watch: Pakistan's economy in crisis — Business leaders pin hopes on army generals General Bajwa has been privately meeting with top business leaders. Reports say as many as three such meetings have taken place so far. These were held at heavily guarded military offices in Karachi — that's the financial capital of Pakistan. Some meetings were convened in Rawalpindi, which is home to the army headquarters. Reports say that business leaders shared advice on how to fix Pakistan's economy.Businessmen in Pakistan are a worried lot. They wanted immediate action from the Imran Khan government — but that hasn't happened. So they knocked on the doors of the army chief. And already, things are moving. Reports say there has been action on some requests. One report says that a meeting led to prompt decisions. From there — instructions were dispatched to top government officials.The Pakistani government is downplaying these interactions. A spokesman from Pakistan's finance ministry has denied claims of any interference from the military.At this stage, The businessmen of Pakistan are pinning their hopes on the generals. They believe that the army chief has enough military power and clout to get things done. Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa General Bajwa isn't a regular army chief. He wears many hats. He is part of the high powered national development council.This is a 13-member body — that was set up by Imran Khan. It's job is to advise the Pakistan Prime Minister on long term economic policy. So he was already directly involved in policymaking. These meetings are being called the beginning of a soft coup.And the army has a solid excuse, not that they need one. Pakistan's growth has plummeted to two point four per cent, the budget deficit — that's the difference between revenues and earnings — has spiked to nearly nine per cent. Pakistan has secured a six billion dollar bailout from the international monetary fund to save its economy. But the bailout may not be enough.Pakistan owes six point seven billion dollars to china alone. They need some experts to fight the economic battle. The reliance on generals may prove to be a costly mistake.

Pakistan's economic crisis: Army chief Bajwa meets business leaders; is Imran Khan isolated in Pakistan?

The Pakistan Army is resorting to the policy of rape and pillage in Balochistan, said Baloch leader Mehran Marri here and added that two women have been raped by army men over last one month.

He added that the Pakistani forces had conducted Operation Searchlight in Bangladesh, and is now resorting to the same policies in Balochistan.

"Pakistan Army is notorious for its policy of rape and pillage like they conducted Operation Searchlight in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-more-rohingya-shot-dead-over-bangladesh-politicians-murder-249441">Bangladesh</a>. It is resorting to same policies in Balochistan now," Marri said.

Human rights activists and ethnic leaders have continuously staged protests in prominent spaces like during the recent UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva to shed light on the atrocities committed by Islamabad, its forces and its intelligence agency against religious and ethnic minorities in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-government-makes-it-mandatory-for-female-students-to-cover-up-250092">Pakistan</a>.

"In space of one month, a lady from Mardan and another from Gwadar has been raped by this coward army. They (Pakistan Army) have to be held accountable, be it Bajwa, Musharraf or any of these dictators, they have all committed crimes against humanity," Marri added.

The leaders have sought India`s help in bringing these human rights violations by Pakistan into international focus, with activists requesting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak about the situation in Sindh and other provinces during the upcoming UN General Assembly session in New York.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army is resorting to the policy of rape and pillage in Balochistan, said Baloch leader Mehran Marri here and added that two women have been raped by army men over last one month.

The Pakistan Army is resorting to the policy of rape and pillage in Balochistan, said Baloch leader Mehran Marri here and added that two women have been raped by army men over last one month. He added that the Pakistani forces had conducted Operation Searchlight in Bangladesh, and is now resorting to the same policies in Balochistan. "Pakistan Army is notorious for its policy of rape and pillage like they conducted Operation Searchlight in Bangladesh. It is resorting to same policies in Balochistan now," Marri said. Human rights activists and ethnic leaders have continuously staged protests in prominent spaces like during the recent UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva to shed light on the atrocities committed by Islamabad, its forces and its intelligence agency against religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan. "In space of one month, a lady from Mardan and another from Gwadar has been raped by this coward army. They (Pakistan Army) have to be held accountable, be it Bajwa, Musharraf or any of these dictators, they have all committed crimes against humanity," Marri added. The leaders have sought India`s help in bringing these human rights violations by Pakistan into international focus, with activists requesting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak about the situation in Sindh and other provinces during the upcoming UN General Assembly session in New York.

Two women raped by Pakistan Army in last one month: Baloch leader

Two days after US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-donald-trump-calls-off-peace-talks-secret-summit-with-taliban-over-terror-attacks-248340">Trump called off negotiations</a> with the Taliban, a seventeen-member US delegation met Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa in Islamabad.

The US delegation discussed regional security and the Afghan peace process, according to sources.

The US team left for Afghanistan after meeting the Pakistan Army chief, the sources added.

In a tweet on late on Saturday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-government-says-real-peace-will-come-when-taliban-stop-violence-hold-direct-talks-248392">President Trump </a>had said that major Taliban leaders were set to meet him at Camp David, with Afghan President Ghani due to meet him separately, an announcement which surprised many in Washington with the anniversary of September 11 approaching.

However, the US president added that he had "cancelled the meeting and called off the peace negotiations" after the Kabul attack in which 12 people were killed including one US solider and a Romanian service member which was claimed by the Taliban.

"What kind of people would kill so many in order to seemingly strengthen their bargaining position? They didn’t, they only made it worse!" he said. "If they cannot agree to a ceasefire during these very important peace talks, and would even kill 12 innocent people, then they probably don’t have the power to negotiate a meaningful agreement anyway," Trump added.

President Ashraf Ghani in a statement said, "The Afghan government, in relation to the peace, appreciates the sincere efforts of its allies and is committed to working together with the United States and other allies to bring lasting peace."

The peace talks fell apart months of closed-door meetings between Taliban officials and the US in Doha spearheaded by US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad. The US recalled its special envoy as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told a television channel that Taliban had "overreached" with the car bomb attack which led President Trump to pull out of talks with the Taliban.

"Taliban demonstrated either that they weren't willing to or couldn't live up to the commitment they needed to...reduce violence there," Pompeo said.

Two days after US President Trump called off negotiations with the Taliban, a seventeen-member US delegation met Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa in Islamabad. The US delegation discussed regional security and the Afghan peace process, according to sources.

Two days after US President Trump called off negotiations with the Taliban, a seventeen-member US delegation met Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa in Islamabad. The US delegation discussed regional security and the Afghan peace process, according to sources. The US team left for Afghanistan after meeting the Pakistan Army chief, the sources added. In a tweet on late on Saturday, President Trump had said that major Taliban leaders were set to meet him at Camp David, with Afghan President Ghani due to meet him separately, an announcement which surprised many in Washington with the anniversary of September 11 approaching. However, the US president added that he had "cancelled the meeting and called off the peace negotiations" after the Kabul attack in which 12 people were killed including one US solider and a Romanian service member which was claimed by the Taliban. "What kind of people would kill so many in order to seemingly strengthen their bargaining position? They didn’t, they only made it worse!" he said. "If they cannot agree to a ceasefire during these very important peace talks, and would even kill 12 innocent people, then they probably don’t have the power to negotiate a meaningful agreement anyway," Trump added. President Ashraf Ghani in a statement said, "The Afghan government, in relation to the peace, appreciates the sincere efforts of its allies and is committed to working together with the United States and other allies to bring lasting peace." The peace talks fell apart months of closed-door meetings between Taliban officials and the US in Doha spearheaded by US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad. The US recalled its special envoy as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told a television channel that Taliban had "overreached" with the car bomb attack which led President Trump to pull out of talks with the Taliban. "Taliban demonstrated either that they weren't willing to or couldn't live up to the commitment they needed to...reduce violence there," Pompeo said.

US delegation meets Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa; discuss Afghanistan, regional security: Sources

Pakistan's powerful Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa said on Tuesday that his country "has done much more for peace in Afghanistan than any other country", in an apparent reference to the US which is fighting the Taliban militants since 2001 to restore peace in the war-torn nation.

Gen Bajwa's remarks came in the midst of a war of words between Pakistan and US after President Donald Trump berated Islamabad for lack of cooperation in the war on terror.

Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted General Bajwa's views about Afghanistan and the war on terror.

"Pakistan has successfully fought against terrorism while also contributing to regional peace. Pakistan has done much more for peace in Afghanistan than any other country," Gen Bajwa said.

He said Pakistan has "paid the highest military, economic, political and social cost and the world should acknowledge that".

"We shall continue to contribute towards peace in Afghanistan," the army chief said, "but Pakistan's honour and Pakistan's security shall always stay premier".

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday reacted sharply to President Trump's remarks, saying that instead of making Pakistan a "scapegoat" for its failures in

Afghanistan, the US should find out why the Taliban has emerged stronger than before.

Pakistan on Tuesday summoned US charge d'affaires Paul Jones to register a strong protest over Trump's "baseless allegations" on harbouring al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, saying it was a "closed chapter of history" and could seriously undermine bilateral ties.

Trump on Sunday defended his administration's decision to stop hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid to Pakistan for not doing enough to curb terrorism and criticised Islamabad for offering a hideout to slain al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in the garrison city of Abbottabad.

The US, which is fighting the Taliban militants since 2001 in Afghanistan, continues to seek an exit strategy from the troubled country and in recent months

Washington has held direct talks with the Taliban representatives to end the 17 year long war.

Pakistan's powerful Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa said on Tuesday that his country "has done much more for peace in Afghanistan than any other country", in an apparent reference to the US which is fighting the Taliban militants since 2001 to restore peace in the war-torn nation.

Pakistan's powerful Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa said on Tuesday that his country "has done much more for peace in Afghanistan than any other country", in an apparent reference to the US which is fighting the Taliban militants since 2001 to restore peace in the war-torn nation. Gen Bajwa's remarks came in the midst of a war of words between Pakistan and US after President Donald Trump berated Islamabad for lack of cooperation in the war on terror. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted General Bajwa's views about Afghanistan and the war on terror. "Pakistan has successfully fought against terrorism while also contributing to regional peace. Pakistan has done much more for peace in Afghanistan than any other country," Gen Bajwa said. He said Pakistan has "paid the highest military, economic, political and social cost and the world should acknowledge that". "We shall continue to contribute towards peace in Afghanistan," the army chief said, "but Pakistan's honour and Pakistan's security shall always stay premier". Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday reacted sharply to President Trump's remarks, saying that instead of making Pakistan a "scapegoat" for its failures in Afghanistan, the US should find out why the Taliban has emerged stronger than before. Pakistan on Tuesday summoned US charge d'affaires Paul Jones to register a strong protest over Trump's "baseless allegations" on harbouring al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, saying it was a "closed chapter of history" and could seriously undermine bilateral ties. Trump on Sunday defended his administration's decision to stop hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid to Pakistan for not doing enough to curb terrorism and criticised Islamabad for offering a hideout to slain al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in the garrison city of Abbottabad. The US, which is fighting the Taliban militants since 2001 in Afghanistan, continues to seek an exit strategy from the troubled country and in recent months Washington has held direct talks with the Taliban representatives to end the 17 year long war.

Pakistan has done more for peace in Afghanistan than any other country: General Bajwa

Lt Gen Asim Munir is likely to be made the new chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI after &nbsp;Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals retired on Monday, reports said.&nbsp;

As per reports, General Qamar Bajwa approved the promotion of Gen Munir and the six other generals on Monday.&nbsp;

It is highly expected that Lt Gen Munir would be appointed as the Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), The News reported.

Traditionally, the coveted slot of DG ISI, considered the most powerful after the army chief’s post, goes to a three-star general with a considerable experience of working in intelligence agencies.

According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the promoted officers are: Maj Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, Vice Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Shaheen Mazhar, ISI DG (Planning) Maj Gen Abdul Aziz, Military Intelligence Director General Maj Gen Asim Munir, Maj Gen Syed Muhammad Adnan and Frontier Corps IG Maj Gen Waseem Ashraf.

Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported.

Lt Gen Asim Munir is likely to be made the new chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI after Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals retired on Monday, reports said.

Lt Gen Asim Munir is likely to be made the new chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI after Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals retired on Monday, reports said. As per reports, General Qamar Bajwa approved the promotion of Gen Munir and the six other generals on Monday. It is highly expected that Lt Gen Munir would be appointed as the Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), The News reported. Traditionally, the coveted slot of DG ISI, considered the most powerful after the army chief’s post, goes to a three-star general with a considerable experience of working in intelligence agencies. According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the promoted officers are: Maj Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, Vice Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Shaheen Mazhar, ISI DG (Planning) Maj Gen Abdul Aziz, Military Intelligence Director General Maj Gen Asim Munir, Maj Gen Syed Muhammad Adnan and Frontier Corps IG Maj Gen Waseem Ashraf. Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported.

Lt Gen Asim Munir likely to be appointed as new ISI chief 

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said that India will take any peace-seeking comment seriously. Sitharaman's statement came in the wake of Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment.&nbsp;

Bajwa, earlier this month, had come up with ways that would help Pakistan achieve peace and prosperity. He called for military cooperations with India.&nbsp;

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Any comment on wanting peace will definitely be taken seriously: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on if India will take Pakistan Army chief general Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment seriously <a href="https://t.co/OMB6EeUEos">pic.twitter.com/OMB6EeUEos</a>
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As per a report by UK-based think-tank Royal Unites Services Institute (RUSI), General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March.&nbsp;

After two weeks, General Bajwa reportedly said that he wanted peace and dialogue with India, "Only through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue a solution could be found for the disputes between the two countries", Bajwa was quoted by European think-tank European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS).

The article, published in the think-tank, also stated that New Delhi has been reluctant to meet&nbsp;Bajwa halfway with respect to his peace-seeking efforts.&nbsp;

An article published in a UK-based think-tank also stated that New Delhi has been reluctant to meet Bajwa halfway with respect to his peace-seeking efforts

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said that India will take any peace-seeking comment seriously. Sitharaman's statement came in the wake of Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment. Bajwa, earlier this month, had come up with ways that would help Pakistan achieve peace and prosperity. He called for military cooperations with India. Any comment on wanting peace will definitely be taken seriously: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on if India will take Pakistan Army chief general Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment seriously pic.twitter.com/OMB6EeUEos — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2018 × As per a report by UK-based think-tank Royal Unites Services Institute (RUSI), General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March. After two weeks, General Bajwa reportedly said that he wanted peace and dialogue with India, "Only through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue a solution could be found for the disputes between the two countries", Bajwa was quoted by European think-tank European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS). The article, published in the think-tank, also stated that New Delhi has been reluctant to meet Bajwa halfway with respect to his peace-seeking efforts.

Any comment on wanting peace will be taken seriously: Nirmala Sithraman on Pak Army chief's 'peace' efforts

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