In a veiled attack on Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India was a victim of terrorism “sheltered and supported” from across the border, as he demanded that all nations reject the use of terrorism against others, dismantle the terror infrastructure and stop its financing. In an interview published in Wednesday’s editions of Arabic-language newspaper ‘Okaz’ and the English newspaper ‘Saudi Gazette’, Modi said India strongly condemns extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The interview coincided with the maiden state visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India, days after the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group.

The attack, one of the worst in Jammu and Kashmir, killed 40 CRPF soldiers. “India has been a victim of terrorism sheltered and supported from across the border for over decades, claiming thousands of innocent lives,” the prime minister said, without mentioning Pakistan, a close ally of Saudi Arabia, by name. Modi said the menace of extremism and terrorism threatens all nations and societies, and reject any attempt to link this universal phenomenon to any particular race, religion or culture.

“We also call on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures and stop its financing,” he said, adding that India strongly condemns extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of its motivations whenever, wherever and by whosoever committed. Asked about the possibility of India-Saudi Arabia cooperation in the area of counter-terrorism and in ensuring safety and security of sea-lanes of communications and freedom of navigation, Modi said bilateral cooperation in areas of counter-terrorism, security and defence has intensified over the years.

The two countries have close cooperation on a range of security issues, particularly on maritime security, law enforcement, anti-money laundering, drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal migration and other transnational organised crimes. To further enhance our bilateral cooperation in the counter-terrorism efforts, the two countries could initiate comprehensive security dialogue mechanism at the level of the National Security Advisors who will interact at regular intervals, the prime minister suggested.

“We also share the vision of peace and security in the Indian Ocean region,” Modi said on the need to ensure safety and security of sea-lanes of communications, safety and freedom of navigation in the shipping lanes and trade routes. Commenting on the Indo-Saudi strategic ties, the prime minister said, “We attach high priority to our friendly relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” He said the traditionally close ties are anchored in the shared interests based on centuries-old economic and socio-cultural ties and vibrant people-to-people contacts.

“Our leadership has been working closely with the Saudi leadership towards further deepening our multifaceted ties for the common benefit of our two countries. The political commitment at the leadership level has been reflected by the fact that India has been identified as one of the eight strategic partners by Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Modi noted that the two countries were also progressing towards establishing the India–Saudi Arabia ‘Strategic Partnership Council’ which focuses on consolidating bilateral cooperation in specific areas under the Kingdom’s newly constituted Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnership (SCISP). “India and Saudi Arabia ties will be a factor for stability, peace and security in our region and the world,” the prime minister said. Highlighting the areas of cooperation Modi said energy security remains a key pillar of strategic partnership. Through the established bilateral mechanism, India and Saudi Arabia have been holding energy consultations for past few years to explore the joint investment opportunities and cooperation between the two countries and also to encourage the Saudi private sector companies to invest in oil and gas sectors in India.

“We welcome the Saudi Aramco’s committed 50 per cent partnership in the USD 44 billion Ratnagiri Refinery project as an enhancing factor to our strategic partnership. We also welcome the interest of the Saudi Basic Industries Corp to invest in India,” he said. “During my visit to Riyadh in 2016, the two countries concluded the Framework Cooperation Agreement between Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) and Invest India. We welcome greater investment of Saudi Arabia in our infrastructure and other areas including NIIF (National Investment and Infrastructure Fund, India’s first sovereign wealth fund),” Modi said.

In a veiled attack on Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India was a victim of terrorism “sheltered and supported” from across the border, as he demanded that all nations reject the use of terrorism against others, dismantle the terror infrastructure and stop its financing.

In a veiled attack on Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India was a victim of terrorism “sheltered and supported” from across the border, as he demanded that all nations reject the use of terrorism against others, dismantle the terror infrastructure and stop its financing. In an interview published in Wednesday’s editions of Arabic-language newspaper ‘Okaz’ and the English newspaper ‘Saudi Gazette’, Modi said India strongly condemns extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The interview coincided with the maiden state visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India, days after the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group. The attack, one of the worst in Jammu and Kashmir, killed 40 CRPF soldiers. “India has been a victim of terrorism sheltered and supported from across the border for over decades, claiming thousands of innocent lives,” the prime minister said, without mentioning Pakistan, a close ally of Saudi Arabia, by name. Modi said the menace of extremism and terrorism threatens all nations and societies, and reject any attempt to link this universal phenomenon to any particular race, religion or culture. “We also call on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures and stop its financing,” he said, adding that India strongly condemns extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of its motivations whenever, wherever and by whosoever committed. Asked about the possibility of India-Saudi Arabia cooperation in the area of counter-terrorism and in ensuring safety and security of sea-lanes of communications and freedom of navigation, Modi said bilateral cooperation in areas of counter-terrorism, security and defence has intensified over the years. The two countries have close cooperation on a range of security issues, particularly on maritime security, law enforcement, anti-money laundering, drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal migration and other transnational organised crimes. To further enhance our bilateral cooperation in the counter-terrorism efforts, the two countries could initiate comprehensive security dialogue mechanism at the level of the National Security Advisors who will interact at regular intervals, the prime minister suggested. “We also share the vision of peace and security in the Indian Ocean region,” Modi said on the need to ensure safety and security of sea-lanes of communications, safety and freedom of navigation in the shipping lanes and trade routes. Commenting on the Indo-Saudi strategic ties, the prime minister said, “We attach high priority to our friendly relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” He said the traditionally close ties are anchored in the shared interests based on centuries-old economic and socio-cultural ties and vibrant people-to-people contacts. “Our leadership has been working closely with the Saudi leadership towards further deepening our multifaceted ties for the common benefit of our two countries. The political commitment at the leadership level has been reflected by the fact that India has been identified as one of the eight strategic partners by Saudi Arabia,” he said. Modi noted that the two countries were also progressing towards establishing the India–Saudi Arabia ‘Strategic Partnership Council’ which focuses on consolidating bilateral cooperation in specific areas under the Kingdom’s newly constituted Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnership (SCISP). “India and Saudi Arabia ties will be a factor for stability, peace and security in our region and the world,” the prime minister said. Highlighting the areas of cooperation Modi said energy security remains a key pillar of strategic partnership. Through the established bilateral mechanism, India and Saudi Arabia have been holding energy consultations for past few years to explore the joint investment opportunities and cooperation between the two countries and also to encourage the Saudi private sector companies to invest in oil and gas sectors in India. “We welcome the Saudi Aramco’s committed 50 per cent partnership in the USD 44 billion Ratnagiri Refinery project as an enhancing factor to our strategic partnership. We also welcome the interest of the Saudi Basic Industries Corp to invest in India,” he said. “During my visit to Riyadh in 2016, the two countries concluded the Framework Cooperation Agreement between Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) and Invest India. We welcome greater investment of Saudi Arabia in our infrastructure and other areas including NIIF (National Investment and Infrastructure Fund, India’s first sovereign wealth fund),” Modi said.

India a victim of terrorism ‘sheltered and supported’ from across the border: PM Modi’s veiled attack on Pakistan

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pak-saudi-arabia-sri-lanka-in-european-commission-blacklist-for-terror-financing-money-laundering-197258">travel to Pakistan</a> mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country.

The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan.

"Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism," the State Department said in the latest travel advisory.

It asked Americans not to travel to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-dissatisfied-over-pakistans-efforts-to-combat-terror-financing-report-172508"> Balochistan province and Khyber</a> Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, including the former Federally, Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir area due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan, it said, adding that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship and government facilities.

Noting that terrorist attacks continue to happen across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA, the State Department said large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in hundreds of casualties over the last several years.

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Attari, India, the advisory said.

Urging its citizens not to travel to PoK, the State Department said militant groups are known to operate in the area.

"The threat of armed conflict between India and Pakistan remains. Indian and Pakistani military forces periodically exchange fire across the Line of Control," it added.&nbsp;

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their travel to Pakistan mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country. The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan.

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their travel to Pakistan mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country. The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan. "Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism," the State Department said in the latest travel advisory. It asked Americans not to travel to Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, including the former Federally, Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir area due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan, it said, adding that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship and government facilities. Noting that terrorist attacks continue to happen across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA, the State Department said large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in hundreds of casualties over the last several years. India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Attari, India, the advisory said. Urging its citizens not to travel to PoK, the State Department said militant groups are known to operate in the area. "The threat of armed conflict between India and Pakistan remains. Indian and Pakistani military forces periodically exchange fire across the Line of Control," it added.

US urges citizens to 'reconsider' travelling to Pakistan due to terrorism

A search was underway Sunday for four suspected migrants, three of them children, believed missing after trying to cross the river Evros from Turkey into Greece, local police said.

Twelve people overall were in a dinghy that sank on Saturday. Eight of them managed to swim to safety and alerted the authorities.

The river Evros has seen increased migrant traffic since Greek and EU naval patrols intensified in the Aegean in 2016.

Migration minister Dimitris Vitsas in October said numbers had increased dramatically, from more than 3,000 in 2016 to 5,500 in 2017 and some 12,000 up to that point last year.

Migration is among the issues to be discussed during a visit to Turkey next week by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

A search was underway Sunday for four suspected migrants, three of them children, believed missing after trying to cross the river Evros from Turkey into Greece, local police said.

A search was underway Sunday for four suspected migrants, three of them children, believed missing after trying to cross the river Evros from Turkey into Greece, local police said. Twelve people overall were in a dinghy that sank on Saturday. Eight of them managed to swim to safety and alerted the authorities. The river Evros has seen increased migrant traffic since Greek and EU naval patrols intensified in the Aegean in 2016. Migration minister Dimitris Vitsas in October said numbers had increased dramatically, from more than 3,000 in 2016 to 5,500 in 2017 and some 12,000 up to that point last year. Migration is among the issues to be discussed during a visit to Turkey next week by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

Three children missing as migrant boat sinks on border: Greek police

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the Centre will use technology to seal the international borders with Bangladesh in West Bengal and Assam through an integrated border management system.

Alleging that Bangladeshis are illegally entering West Bengal, he said the Centre had sought land from the state government to fence off the border with Bangladesh but is yet to receive it.

"Now, we have decided to use technology to seal the international borders with Bangladesh in the two states using a comprehensive integrated border management system," Singh said at a rally at Falakata in Alipurduar district of north Bengal.

The move will help check infiltration as well as smuggling and other border crimes, ensure the safety and security of the country amid a changing demographic profile of West Bengal, he said.

Coming down heavily on the ruling TMC in the state, he said, "As per records, the maximum violence takes place in West Bengal. Neither Ma, Mati nor Manush (referring to TMC's slogan) are safe under their rule."

Nearly 100 BJP workers have been killed in the state and none of those involved will be spared, the Union minister asserted.

"Political violence should end in West Bengal. And for that to happen, Bengal will have a BJP CM in 2021," he said.

Addressing another rally in Mathabhanga in Cooch Behar district, Singh accused the TMC government of killing democracy and jeopardising the law and order situation in the state.

"The ruling TMC has ruined Sonar Bangla and lowered its image, while democracy is in peril," he said.

"It's surprising that women are not safe in a state which has a woman chief minister. I doubt if police stations in West Bengal are safe and secured," Singh said.

"This government is not ready to take any support from us, they rejected the smart city project and Ayushmaan Bharat scheme," he said.

"The purpose of politics is not only to form a government but also to build a nation," Singh observed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi too held rallies in the state Saturday, in Matua-dominated Thakurnagar in North 24 Parganas district and in Durgapur.

He also attacked TMC on its home turf.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the Centre will use technology to seal the international borders with Bangladesh in West Bengal and Assam through an integrated border management system.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the Centre will use technology to seal the international borders with Bangladesh in West Bengal and Assam through an integrated border management system. Alleging that Bangladeshis are illegally entering West Bengal, he said the Centre had sought land from the state government to fence off the border with Bangladesh but is yet to receive it. "Now, we have decided to use technology to seal the international borders with Bangladesh in the two states using a comprehensive integrated border management system," Singh said at a rally at Falakata in Alipurduar district of north Bengal. The move will help check infiltration as well as smuggling and other border crimes, ensure the safety and security of the country amid a changing demographic profile of West Bengal, he said. Coming down heavily on the ruling TMC in the state, he said, "As per records, the maximum violence takes place in West Bengal. Neither Ma, Mati nor Manush (referring to TMC's slogan) are safe under their rule." Nearly 100 BJP workers have been killed in the state and none of those involved will be spared, the Union minister asserted. "Political violence should end in West Bengal. And for that to happen, Bengal will have a BJP CM in 2021," he said. Addressing another rally in Mathabhanga in Cooch Behar district, Singh accused the TMC government of killing democracy and jeopardising the law and order situation in the state. "The ruling TMC has ruined Sonar Bangla and lowered its image, while democracy is in peril," he said. "It's surprising that women are not safe in a state which has a woman chief minister. I doubt if police stations in West Bengal are safe and secured," Singh said. "This government is not ready to take any support from us, they rejected the smart city project and Ayushmaan Bharat scheme," he said. "The purpose of politics is not only to form a government but also to build a nation," Singh observed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi too held rallies in the state Saturday, in Matua-dominated Thakurnagar in North 24 Parganas district and in Durgapur. He also attacked TMC on its home turf.

Centre will use technology to seal Bangladesh borders in Bengal, Assam: Rajnath Singh

President Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Sunday that US lawmakers seeking to avoid another <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-us-shutdown-over-border-wall-fight-might-play-out-192604">government shutdown </a>could reach a deal on<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-shutdown-sends-economy-into-uncharted-waters-189942"> border security</a> that he would accept, as he renewed his vow to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico.

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump said chances were low that Congress could craft an agreement and avoid another closure of part of the US government in three weeks' time when funding will expire.

"I personally think it's less than 50-50, but you have a lot of very good people on that board," the president said, referring to the committee of lawmakers appointed to work out a compromise on border security funding.

Another shutdown, Trump told the Wall Street Journal, was "certainly an option."

The president has also said he might declare a national emergency in order to build his border wall. Democrats would likely challenge that in court.

"Does anybody really think I won’t build the WALL? Done more in the first two years than any President!" Trump wrote on Twitter on Sunday evening.

Democratic resistance to Republican Trump's demand for $5.7 billion for a border wall resulted in a 35-day shutdown of about a fourth of the US government, a closure that just ended on Friday.

The five-week standoff damaged the US economy, left many federal workers scrambling to make ends meet and tested Americans' patience with delays to air travel, closures of national parks and other disruptions.

After opinion polls showed Americans increasingly blamed Trump for the situation, the president signed a measure on Friday to fund the government for three weeks as congressional negotiators try to work out a bill to fully fund the agencies through September 30.

But Trump also threatened to resume the shutdown on February 15 if he does not get what he wants.

In his interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump also sounded doubtful about a possible deal involving both wall money and a broader overhaul of US immigration laws.

"I doubt it," he said when asked if he would agree to citizenship for a group of immigrants known as "Dreamers," who were brought to the United States illegally as children - in exchange for border wall funding.

"That’s a separate subject to be taken up at a separate time," Trump said.

'SHUTDOWNS NOT GOOD LEVERAGE'

Earlier on Sunday, some lawmakers criticized using the closure of federal agencies as a tool in policy disputes. Senior legislators from both parties said the latest shutdown, the 19th since the mid-1970s, was as ineffective as previous ones but much more disruptive as it was the longest in US history.

"Shutdowns are not good leverage in any negotiation," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said on NBC's "Meet the Press," urging congressional negotiators to tackle border security in the three-week talks launched by last week's shutdown-ending deal.

Hakeem Jeffries, chairman of the Democratic caucus in the House of Representatives, said on the same television show that shutdowns were "not legitimate negotiating tactics" in public policy disagreements between two branches of government.

About 800,000 federal workers were furloughed or worked without pay during the shutdown, missing at least two paychecks that officials are now working to make up for.

"We hope that by the end of this week, all the back pay will be made up," acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said on CBS' "Face the Nation."

Federal workers are owed about $6 billion in back pay, according to a study released last week.

As a candidate, Trump pledged to build the wall, with Mexico paying for it.

Mexico refused and now Trump wants US taxpayers to pay for the barrier, which he sees as key to curbing illegal immigration and illegal drug flows into the country.

Democrats say a wall would be too costly and ineffective.

It remained unclear when Trump would deliver his State of the Union address, which was postponed during the shutdown. One administration official, who asked not to be named, said on Saturday the speech would likely not occur until February.

President Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Sunday that US lawmakers seeking to avoid another government shutdown could reach a deal on border security that he would accept, as he renewed his vow to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico.

President Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Sunday that US lawmakers seeking to avoid another government shutdown could reach a deal on border security that he would accept, as he renewed his vow to build a wall on the southern border with Mexico. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump said chances were low that Congress could craft an agreement and avoid another closure of part of the US government in three weeks' time when funding will expire. "I personally think it's less than 50-50, but you have a lot of very good people on that board," the president said, referring to the committee of lawmakers appointed to work out a compromise on border security funding. Another shutdown, Trump told the Wall Street Journal, was "certainly an option." The president has also said he might declare a national emergency in order to build his border wall. Democrats would likely challenge that in court. "Does anybody really think I won’t build the WALL? Done more in the first two years than any President!" Trump wrote on Twitter on Sunday evening. Democratic resistance to Republican Trump's demand for $5.7 billion for a border wall resulted in a 35-day shutdown of about a fourth of the US government, a closure that just ended on Friday. The five-week standoff damaged the US economy, left many federal workers scrambling to make ends meet and tested Americans' patience with delays to air travel, closures of national parks and other disruptions. After opinion polls showed Americans increasingly blamed Trump for the situation, the president signed a measure on Friday to fund the government for three weeks as congressional negotiators try to work out a bill to fully fund the agencies through September 30. But Trump also threatened to resume the shutdown on February 15 if he does not get what he wants. In his interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump also sounded doubtful about a possible deal involving both wall money and a broader overhaul of US immigration laws. "I doubt it," he said when asked if he would agree to citizenship for a group of immigrants known as "Dreamers," who were brought to the United States illegally as children - in exchange for border wall funding. "That’s a separate subject to be taken up at a separate time," Trump said. 'SHUTDOWNS NOT GOOD LEVERAGE' Earlier on Sunday, some lawmakers criticized using the closure of federal agencies as a tool in policy disputes. Senior legislators from both parties said the latest shutdown, the 19th since the mid-1970s, was as ineffective as previous ones but much more disruptive as it was the longest in US history. "Shutdowns are not good leverage in any negotiation," Republican Senator Marco Rubio said on NBC's "Meet the Press," urging congressional negotiators to tackle border security in the three-week talks launched by last week's shutdown-ending deal. Hakeem Jeffries, chairman of the Democratic caucus in the House of Representatives, said on the same television show that shutdowns were "not legitimate negotiating tactics" in public policy disagreements between two branches of government. About 800,000 federal workers were furloughed or worked without pay during the shutdown, missing at least two paychecks that officials are now working to make up for. "We hope that by the end of this week, all the back pay will be made up," acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said on CBS' "Face the Nation." Federal workers are owed about $6 billion in back pay, according to a study released last week. As a candidate, Trump pledged to build the wall, with Mexico paying for it. Mexico refused and now Trump wants US taxpayers to pay for the barrier, which he sees as key to curbing illegal immigration and illegal drug flows into the country. Democrats say a wall would be too costly and ineffective. It remained unclear when Trump would deliver his State of the Union address, which was postponed during the shutdown. One administration official, who asked not to be named, said on Saturday the speech would likely not occur until February.

Trump doubts lawmakers can reach acceptable border security deal

In this yard in the Texas town of Mission, they played as children, learned how to fish, picked cotton and gathered watermelons.&nbsp;

But because it's on the border with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-raised-to-79-in-mexico-pipeline-blast-new-focus-on-fuel-theft-191662&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjT8rm5iv7fAhUMpY8KHc8fD8gQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0CA6sDow_1lZ4t-OjwETAO">Mexico</a>, the Cavazos family could lose their property — to Donald Trump's border wall.

They are not going down without a fight.

In his sister Eloisa's dining room, Jose Alfredo Cavazos — who goes by Fred — displays the numerous letters sent by the federal government.

"Our property right now is in... the danger of being no more," says the 69-year-old, who lives next door to his sister, and uses a wheelchair to get around.

Construction seems inevitable: financing for the portion of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congo-court-declares-tshisekedi-president-outraging-opponents-191652&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjG4YnQiv7fAhUFbo8KHXF7CgsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1zTyiaj1figdxyXfInzu0B">president</a>'s much-awaited border wall that would pass through the Cavazos' property in the Rio Grande Valley was approved by Congress in March 2018.

It is separate from the wider debate about border wall funding that has roiled Washington for weeks, sparked a showdown between <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-reiterates-demand-for-wall-attacks-media-191492&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjw-fTsiv7fAhUTS48KHT4xDRkQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw165HyUbOwPbYj8U-SRgPI0">Trump</a> and Democratic lawmakers, and led to the longest government shutdown in American history.

The federal government has already surveyed the land, which mainly belongs to Eloisa — the first step towards construction. The family opposed the move, and the government filed suit, winning the initial case.

The Cavazos clan is not giving up just yet, though. They have appealed the initial decision, and are being represented on a pro bono basis by the Texas Civil Rights Project.

Raison de Vivre

Fred Cavazos runs his hand over the maps attached to each official document in the pile.&nbsp;

If the wall is built as planned, it will run along the levee that keeps the land from flooding — and will block his access to his land, where he tends a small herd of cattle and goats.

His other worry is that the family will lose revenue earned by renting out small riverside homes, often used as weekend getaways. Fred says the family makes about $35,000 a year from rentals, and they cannot live without it.

After all, who would want to come to spend a relaxing weekend staring at a giant concrete wall, or even towering steel slats? Would tenants even be allowed to cross back and forth?

"It's an unknown to us," says Rey Anzaldua, a cousin of the Cavazos siblings and Fred's best friend.

"It would still be our land... but it wouldn't have any value at all."

Beyond the financial strains, the very real possibility of seeing the family land split up has upset the entire clan.

Since their ancestors came from Spain and settled here in the 18th century, the family has "been losing land for so many years," said Anzaldua, who turns 74 this month.

With a Vietnam veteran cap and a sticker on his Jeep that says "No border wall," Anzaldua is bitter: "This land to us is worth more than money — we have an actual love for the land."

To boot, Fred is "totally disabled. This land is actually what keeps him alive," Anzaldua said.

Cavazos manages to get by despite his physical issues, helping Eloisa to collect the rent.&nbsp;

"If he didn't have this, I don't think he'd last very much longer," Anzaldua said.

Stall for as long as possible&nbsp;

Roy Snipes is a local priest who helps take care of the historic 19th century La Lomita chapel in Mission. His parish rents land from the Cavazos family for summer camps.&nbsp;

The church itself, which is classified as a historic monument, should not be affected by the wall construction, but it would end up in a sort of no man's land between the barrier and the river.&nbsp;

For Snipes, who has lived here for 26 years, building the wall would "desecrate a sacred place."

It also would likely keep undocumented migrants from visiting the church, which has been a safe place for them in the past.

"Nobody comes down here expecting to be interrogated and to present papers," says Snipes, a 73-year-old nicknamed the "Cowboy Priest" who sports a Stetson and a large metal cross over his white robe.

The local diocese also refused to allow the government to survey the land, and federal authorities filed a complaint. A decision is expected in February, according to the attorney for the diocese, David Garza.&nbsp;

No one here is under any illusions — it's going to be a tough battle.

"It's difficult to fight the government," Anzaldua said.

"To be very honest with you, what we want to do is we want to delay as much as we can," he explained.&nbsp;

"We would like to fight for long enough so maybe Trump will be out of office and some of this will stop."

In this yard in the Texas town of Mission, they played as children, learned how to fish, picked cotton and gathered watermelons. But because it's on the border with Mexico, the Cavazos family could lose their property — to Donald Trump's border wall.

In this yard in the Texas town of Mission, they played as children, learned how to fish, picked cotton and gathered watermelons. But because it's on the border with Mexico, the Cavazos family could lose their property — to Donald Trump's border wall. They are not going down without a fight. In his sister Eloisa's dining room, Jose Alfredo Cavazos — who goes by Fred — displays the numerous letters sent by the federal government. "Our property right now is in... the danger of being no more," says the 69-year-old, who lives next door to his sister, and uses a wheelchair to get around. Construction seems inevitable: financing for the portion of the president's much-awaited border wall that would pass through the Cavazos' property in the Rio Grande Valley was approved by Congress in March 2018. It is separate from the wider debate about border wall funding that has roiled Washington for weeks, sparked a showdown between Trump and Democratic lawmakers, and led to the longest government shutdown in American history. The federal government has already surveyed the land, which mainly belongs to Eloisa — the first step towards construction. The family opposed the move, and the government filed suit, winning the initial case. The Cavazos clan is not giving up just yet, though. They have appealed the initial decision, and are being represented on a pro bono basis by the Texas Civil Rights Project. Raison de Vivre Fred Cavazos runs his hand over the maps attached to each official document in the pile. If the wall is built as planned, it will run along the levee that keeps the land from flooding — and will block his access to his land, where he tends a small herd of cattle and goats. His other worry is that the family will lose revenue earned by renting out small riverside homes, often used as weekend getaways. Fred says the family makes about $35,000 a year from rentals, and they cannot live without it. After all, who would want to come to spend a relaxing weekend staring at a giant concrete wall, or even towering steel slats? Would tenants even be allowed to cross back and forth? "It's an unknown to us," says Rey Anzaldua, a cousin of the Cavazos siblings and Fred's best friend. "It would still be our land... but it wouldn't have any value at all." Beyond the financial strains, the very real possibility of seeing the family land split up has upset the entire clan. Since their ancestors came from Spain and settled here in the 18th century, the family has "been losing land for so many years," said Anzaldua, who turns 74 this month. With a Vietnam veteran cap and a sticker on his Jeep that says "No border wall," Anzaldua is bitter: "This land to us is worth more than money — we have an actual love for the land." To boot, Fred is "totally disabled. This land is actually what keeps him alive," Anzaldua said. Cavazos manages to get by despite his physical issues, helping Eloisa to collect the rent. "If he didn't have this, I don't think he'd last very much longer," Anzaldua said. Stall for as long as possible Roy Snipes is a local priest who helps take care of the historic 19th century La Lomita chapel in Mission. His parish rents land from the Cavazos family for summer camps. The church itself, which is classified as a historic monument, should not be affected by the wall construction, but it would end up in a sort of no man's land between the barrier and the river. For Snipes, who has lived here for 26 years, building the wall would "desecrate a sacred place." It also would likely keep undocumented migrants from visiting the church, which has been a safe place for them in the past. "Nobody comes down here expecting to be interrogated and to present papers," says Snipes, a 73-year-old nicknamed the "Cowboy Priest" who sports a Stetson and a large metal cross over his white robe. The local diocese also refused to allow the government to survey the land, and federal authorities filed a complaint. A decision is expected in February, according to the attorney for the diocese, David Garza. No one here is under any illusions — it's going to be a tough battle. "It's difficult to fight the government," Anzaldua said. "To be very honest with you, what we want to do is we want to delay as much as we can," he explained. "We would like to fight for long enough so maybe Trump will be out of office and some of this will stop."

In Texas, a family fights to keep Trump wall off property

Russia retains a heightened military presence on Ukraine's border, having pulled back "less than 10 per cent" of its forces since tensions between the countries peaked in November, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-president-names-leader-of-new-church-in-split-from-russia-184350">Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko</a> said.

"The biggest part (of troops) is still there, less than 10 per cent have been withdrawn," Poroshenko told a press conference.

After a maritime conflict with Moscow in the Black Sea in late November, Poroshenko accused Russia of having sharply raised its military presence on the border, with Ukraine warning of the threat of "full-scale war."

In response, Kiev imposed martial law for 30 days in 10 regions that border Russia, the latest page of the unprecedented crisis in relations between the two neighbours.

"The threat of an invasion of Russian armed forces on Ukrainian territory still exists and we must be prepared for it," Poroshenko said, adding he sees no reason for the snap lifting of martial law.

On November 25, Russia seized three Ukrainian navy vessels and detained 24 crew members in the most dangerous incident in years between the ex-Soviet neighbours.

In 2014, Moscow annexed the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine. That move was followed by a deadly conflict in eastern Ukraine between government forces and Russian-backed separatists.

Ukraine and its Western allies have accused Russia of funnelling troops and arms across the border, but Moscow has denied the claims despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.&nbsp;

Russia retains a heightened military presence on Ukraine's border, having pulled back "less than 10 per cent" of its forces since tensions between the countries peaked in November, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said.

Russia retains a heightened military presence on Ukraine's border, having pulled back "less than 10 per cent" of its forces since tensions between the countries peaked in November, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said. "The biggest part (of troops) is still there, less than 10 per cent have been withdrawn," Poroshenko told a press conference. After a maritime conflict with Moscow in the Black Sea in late November, Poroshenko accused Russia of having sharply raised its military presence on the border, with Ukraine warning of the threat of "full-scale war." In response, Kiev imposed martial law for 30 days in 10 regions that border Russia, the latest page of the unprecedented crisis in relations between the two neighbours. "The threat of an invasion of Russian armed forces on Ukrainian territory still exists and we must be prepared for it," Poroshenko said, adding he sees no reason for the snap lifting of martial law. On November 25, Russia seized three Ukrainian navy vessels and detained 24 crew members in the most dangerous incident in years between the ex-Soviet neighbours. In 2014, Moscow annexed the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine. That move was followed by a deadly conflict in eastern Ukraine between government forces and Russian-backed separatists. Ukraine and its Western allies have accused Russia of funnelling troops and arms across the border, but Moscow has denied the claims despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

Russia retains heightened military border presence: Ukraine President Poroshenko

NSA Ajit Doval meets Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi

&nbsp;North Korea has removed 636 land mines from Panmunjom truce village located on the border, the South Korean Defense Minister said on Monday. 
 
The task was part of the military deal both countries signed at their September summit in which Seoul and Pyongyang decided to remove land mines around the South Korean border town of Cheorwon, 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Seoul, and next to the Joint Security Zone. 
 
"There were no land mines found in our region, and the North informed us that it has removed more than 600 land mines," Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-Doo said at a National Assembly session, Yonhap news agency reported. 
 
Kyeong-Doo also said that the two neighbors Sunday concluded the withdrawal of troops and equipment from 11 border guard posts. 
 
South Korea was operating 60 positions in the Demilitarized Zone along with outposts, while the North has more than 160, the minister said. 
 
The South Korean army has begun mobilizing bulldozers to take down 10 of its 11 posts, while planning to maintain one along the east coast set up shortly after the Korean War ceasefire in 1953. 
 
The North is also expected to retain one. 
 
"The irreversible demolition of guard posts is the most tangible and symbolic measure to fundamentally prevent accidental clashes between South and North Korea and build confidence," said South Korean General Kim Yong-woo during the inspection of the destruction of a post, Yonhap reported.

North Korea has removed 636 land mines from Panmunjom truce village located on the border, the South Korean Defense Minister said on Monday. The task was part of the military deal both countries signed at their September summit in which Seoul and Pyongyang decided to remove land mines around the South Korean border town of Cheorwon, 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Seoul, and next to the Joint Security Zone.

North Korea has removed 636 land mines from Panmunjom truce village located on the border, the South Korean Defense Minister said on Monday. The task was part of the military deal both countries signed at their September summit in which Seoul and Pyongyang decided to remove land mines around the South Korean border town of Cheorwon, 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Seoul, and next to the Joint Security Zone. "There were no land mines found in our region, and the North informed us that it has removed more than 600 land mines," Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-Doo said at a National Assembly session, Yonhap news agency reported. Kyeong-Doo also said that the two neighbors Sunday concluded the withdrawal of troops and equipment from 11 border guard posts. South Korea was operating 60 positions in the Demilitarized Zone along with outposts, while the North has more than 160, the minister said. The South Korean army has begun mobilizing bulldozers to take down 10 of its 11 posts, while planning to maintain one along the east coast set up shortly after the Korean War ceasefire in 1953. The North is also expected to retain one. "The irreversible demolition of guard posts is the most tangible and symbolic measure to fundamentally prevent accidental clashes between South and North Korea and build confidence," said South Korean General Kim Yong-woo during the inspection of the destruction of a post, Yonhap reported.

North Korea removes 636 land mines from border, Seoul says

Border Trade back in Syria

Former president Barack Obama on Friday decried as a "political stunt" Donald Trump's plan to send thousands of US soldiers to the Mexican border to block migrants from entering the country.

In a rousing speech to a Miami crowd as he campaigned for fellow Democrats ahead of next week's midterm elections, Obama said the Republican administration was "even taking our brave troops away from their families for a political stunt at the border."

Trump, who has placed immigration at the heart of his party's election effort, has persistently attacked the caravan of Central American migrants, denouncing it as a potential "invasion."&nbsp;

Trump announced earlier this week that he would send thousands of troops to the border to beef up national defenses at the border.

He has campaigned heavily on the issue, warning supporters Thursday that migrants would soon be "overwhelming your schools, your hospitals, your communities."

Obama said the deployment was serving to "get folks angry and ginned up," adding: "There's just constant fearmongering to distract from the record."&nbsp;

The nation's first African American commander in chief took the stage with Andrew Gillum, who is locked in a tight race for governor of Florida against pro-Trump Republican Ron DeSantis, and Senator Bill Nelson, who is running for re-election against outgoing Governor Rick Scott.

"Let's make history happen right here in Florida," Obama told jubilant supporters at the end of a speech that was occasionally interrupted by pro-Republican protesters.

Obama urged more decisive action by Americans who have grown frustrated by the first 21 months of Trump's presidency.

"If you don't like what's going on right now, don't just complain," Obama said.&nbsp;

"Don't get anxious and freaked out, don't throw up your hands in despair. Don't boo. Don't hashtag. Vote!"

In the home stretch of a campaign marked by a recent deadly anti-Semitic attack and the interception of parcel bombs sent to prominent Democrats including Obama, the former president called for defending "the values that bind us to our fellow citizens, no matter who we are."

But he also drilled down on core Democratic issues for the 2018 campaign, like health care and preserving protections for people with pre-existing conditions.

Obama, architect of the Obamacare health reforms that he signed into law in 2010, took Republicans to task for "suddenly" saying they will protect pre-existing conditions coverage despite seeking to pass legislation to do away with such protections.

"Let's call it what it is. It's a lie. They're lying to you," Obama said.

Americans on Tuesday will elect lawmakers for all 435 seats in the House of Representatives, 35 seats in the 100-member Senate, 36 governors and dozens of state legislatures.

Former president Barack Obama on Friday decried as a "political stunt" Donald Trump's plan to send thousands of US soldiers to the Mexican border to block migrants from entering the country.

Former president Barack Obama on Friday decried as a "political stunt" Donald Trump's plan to send thousands of US soldiers to the Mexican border to block migrants from entering the country. In a rousing speech to a Miami crowd as he campaigned for fellow Democrats ahead of next week's midterm elections, Obama said the Republican administration was "even taking our brave troops away from their families for a political stunt at the border." Trump, who has placed immigration at the heart of his party's election effort, has persistently attacked the caravan of Central American migrants, denouncing it as a potential "invasion." Trump announced earlier this week that he would send thousands of troops to the border to beef up national defenses at the border. He has campaigned heavily on the issue, warning supporters Thursday that migrants would soon be "overwhelming your schools, your hospitals, your communities." Obama said the deployment was serving to "get folks angry and ginned up," adding: "There's just constant fearmongering to distract from the record." The nation's first African American commander in chief took the stage with Andrew Gillum, who is locked in a tight race for governor of Florida against pro-Trump Republican Ron DeSantis, and Senator Bill Nelson, who is running for re-election against outgoing Governor Rick Scott. "Let's make history happen right here in Florida," Obama told jubilant supporters at the end of a speech that was occasionally interrupted by pro-Republican protesters. Obama urged more decisive action by Americans who have grown frustrated by the first 21 months of Trump's presidency. "If you don't like what's going on right now, don't just complain," Obama said. "Don't get anxious and freaked out, don't throw up your hands in despair. Don't boo. Don't hashtag. Vote!" In the home stretch of a campaign marked by a recent deadly anti-Semitic attack and the interception of parcel bombs sent to prominent Democrats including Obama, the former president called for defending "the values that bind us to our fellow citizens, no matter who we are." But he also drilled down on core Democratic issues for the 2018 campaign, like health care and preserving protections for people with pre-existing conditions. Obama, architect of the Obamacare health reforms that he signed into law in 2010, took Republicans to task for "suddenly" saying they will protect pre-existing conditions coverage despite seeking to pass legislation to do away with such protections. "Let's call it what it is. It's a lie. They're lying to you," Obama said. Americans on Tuesday will elect lawmakers for all 435 seats in the House of Representatives, 35 seats in the 100-member Senate, 36 governors and dozens of state legislatures.

Obama brands Trump's border deployment plan a 'political stunt'

A barrage of rockets from Gaza hit Israel during the night, the army said Saturday, hours after five Palestinians were killed during clashes on the Israeli border, in a flareup that could jeopardise truce efforts.

The largest projectile attacks in months and the border fatalities came despite talk of progress towards an Egyptian-brokered deal to end months of often violent protests along the border.

"Overnight, dozens of rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip at communities in southern Israel," the army said in a statement, putting the exact number in a separate announcement at 30.

"The IDF's Iron Dome aerial defense system intercepted approximately 10 projectiles," the army said, adding that two rockets fell within the Gaza Strip while the others landed in "open areas".

Israeli medics said seven civilians were being treated for shock.

In response to the rockets, Israeli fighter jets, helicopters and drones struck "approximately 80 Hamas targets throughout the Gaza Strip".

There were no reports of Gaza casualties as a result of the strikes.

Hamas, the militant Islamist rulers of Gaza, did not claim responsibility for the rockets, but Israel holds it responsible for any launches from the coastal enclave.

"The rocket fire is conducted in a terror-filled atmosphere which is generated by Hamas in the area of the security fence and in acts such as tonight's events," the army said.

Islamic Jihad, the second largest militant group in Gaza, hailed the rocket fire in a statement as a response to "Israeli aggressions", stopping short however of directly claiming responsibility for the launches.

A Hamas official said that following the escalation Egypt was again seeking to negotiate a return to calm.

'Riot dispersal means'&nbsp;

Earlier, five Palestinians aged between 22 and 27 died in separate incidents along the border fence, the Gaza health ministry said.

The army did not comment on the deaths but said around 16,000 "rioters and demonstrators" had gathered along the border, with some setting tyres alight and hurling rocks, firebombs and grenades towards soldiers.

Troops responded with "riot dispersal means", a spokesman added.

Three of the men were shot dead east of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, while one was killed east of Jabalia in the north of the coastal territory, the health ministry said.

A fifth man died east of Bureij in central Gaza when a hand grenade he was holding exploded accidentally, witnesses said.

Palestinians have gathered for protests along the Gaza Strip's border at least weekly since March 30.

At least 212 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza since the protests began, according to figures collated by AFP.

The majority have died during protests, while smaller numbers have been killed by airstrikes and tank fire.

One Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Palestinian sniper along the border in the same period.

The protesters are calling to be allowed to return to lands their families fled or were expelled from in a 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel and which are now inside the Jewish state.

They are also protesting over Israel's crippling blockade of Gaza.

Israel accuses Hamas of orchestrating the often violent demonstrations.

Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008 and much of the international community considers the Islamist movement a terrorist organisation.

Truce deal at risk&nbsp;

The fresh violence could also scupper hopes of a deal to end the months of protests.

Egypt and the United Nations have been brokering indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel with the aim of&nbsp;calming the situation amid fears of another war.

Last week, a rocket fired from Gaza hit an Israeli home, narrowly avoiding killing a family. In response the Israeli army carried out air strikes on around 20 Hamas targets in Gaza.

The London-based Arabic newspaper Al-Hayat reported Friday that a deal had been reached that would see the protests end in exchange for an easing of Israel's blockade.

Hamas officials denied a deal had been struck but confirmed to AFP that progress was being made.

"We expect to reach an agreement very soon," a senior Hamas official said earlier Friday on condition of anonymity.

Israel also fully reopened its border crossings with the Gaza Strip this week following a week of relative calm.

It allowed dozens of trucks of fuel paid for by Qatar into the strip, having previously banned their entry in response to the border violence.

Israel says the decade-long blockade is necessary to isolate Hamas, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's two million residents.

A barrage of rockets from Gaza hit Israel during the night, the army said Saturday, hours after five Palestinians were killed during clashes on the Israeli border, in a flareup that could jeopardise truce efforts.

A barrage of rockets from Gaza hit Israel during the night, the army said Saturday, hours after five Palestinians were killed during clashes on the Israeli border, in a flareup that could jeopardise truce efforts. The largest projectile attacks in months and the border fatalities came despite talk of progress towards an Egyptian-brokered deal to end months of often violent protests along the border. "Overnight, dozens of rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip at communities in southern Israel," the army said in a statement, putting the exact number in a separate announcement at 30. "The IDF's Iron Dome aerial defense system intercepted approximately 10 projectiles," the army said, adding that two rockets fell within the Gaza Strip while the others landed in "open areas". Israeli medics said seven civilians were being treated for shock. In response to the rockets, Israeli fighter jets, helicopters and drones struck "approximately 80 Hamas targets throughout the Gaza Strip". There were no reports of Gaza casualties as a result of the strikes. Hamas, the militant Islamist rulers of Gaza, did not claim responsibility for the rockets, but Israel holds it responsible for any launches from the coastal enclave. "The rocket fire is conducted in a terror-filled atmosphere which is generated by Hamas in the area of the security fence and in acts such as tonight's events," the army said. Islamic Jihad, the second largest militant group in Gaza, hailed the rocket fire in a statement as a response to "Israeli aggressions", stopping short however of directly claiming responsibility for the launches. A Hamas official said that following the escalation Egypt was again seeking to negotiate a return to calm. 'Riot dispersal means' Earlier, five Palestinians aged between 22 and 27 died in separate incidents along the border fence, the Gaza health ministry said. The army did not comment on the deaths but said around 16,000 "rioters and demonstrators" had gathered along the border, with some setting tyres alight and hurling rocks, firebombs and grenades towards soldiers. Troops responded with "riot dispersal means", a spokesman added. Three of the men were shot dead east of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, while one was killed east of Jabalia in the north of the coastal territory, the health ministry said. A fifth man died east of Bureij in central Gaza when a hand grenade he was holding exploded accidentally, witnesses said. Palestinians have gathered for protests along the Gaza Strip's border at least weekly since March 30. At least 212 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza since the protests began, according to figures collated by AFP. The majority have died during protests, while smaller numbers have been killed by airstrikes and tank fire. One Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Palestinian sniper along the border in the same period. The protesters are calling to be allowed to return to lands their families fled or were expelled from in a 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel and which are now inside the Jewish state. They are also protesting over Israel's crippling blockade of Gaza. Israel accuses Hamas of orchestrating the often violent demonstrations. Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008 and much of the international community considers the Islamist movement a terrorist organisation. Truce deal at risk The fresh violence could also scupper hopes of a deal to end the months of protests. Egypt and the United Nations have been brokering indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel with the aim of calming the situation amid fears of another war. Last week, a rocket fired from Gaza hit an Israeli home, narrowly avoiding killing a family. In response the Israeli army carried out air strikes on around 20 Hamas targets in Gaza. The London-based Arabic newspaper Al-Hayat reported Friday that a deal had been reached that would see the protests end in exchange for an easing of Israel's blockade. Hamas officials denied a deal had been struck but confirmed to AFP that progress was being made. "We expect to reach an agreement very soon," a senior Hamas official said earlier Friday on condition of anonymity. Israel also fully reopened its border crossings with the Gaza Strip this week following a week of relative calm. It allowed dozens of trucks of fuel paid for by Qatar into the strip, having previously banned their entry in response to the border violence. Israel says the decade-long blockade is necessary to isolate Hamas, while critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's two million residents.

Gaza rockets hit Israel after 5 Palestinians killed in border flareup

Hundreds of Central American migrants are gathered at the border bridge between Mexico and Guatemala on Friday (October 19), stuck at its shuttered gate as they seek passage north towards the United States.

Reuters video showed men, women and children waiting onto a bridge connecting Mexico and Guatemala, only to be met by dozens of Mexican police and immigration officials on the other side of the gate.

Many have vowed to stay put, demanding to be let through. But only a small number have trickled in.

Many of these migrant families are fleeing violence and poverty back home, with large swathes of Central America afflicted by gang violence and drug trafficking.

Earlier, Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray vowed to meet the "challenge" of the caravan after holding talks with US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Mexico City.

Trump has threatened to shut down the US-Mexico border if the caravan is not stopped, which could seriously disrupt trade.

Hundreds of Central American migrants are gathered at the border bridge between Mexico and Guatemala on Friday (October 19), stuck at its shuttered gate as they seek passage north towards the United States.

Hundreds of Central American migrants are gathered at the border bridge between Mexico and Guatemala on Friday (October 19), stuck at its shuttered gate as they seek passage north towards the United States. Reuters video showed men, women and children waiting onto a bridge connecting Mexico and Guatemala, only to be met by dozens of Mexican police and immigration officials on the other side of the gate. Many have vowed to stay put, demanding to be let through. But only a small number have trickled in. Many of these migrant families are fleeing violence and poverty back home, with large swathes of Central America afflicted by gang violence and drug trafficking. Earlier, Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray vowed to meet the "challenge" of the caravan after holding talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Mexico City. Trump has threatened to shut down the US-Mexico border if the caravan is not stopped, which could seriously disrupt trade.

Migrants amass on border bridge to Mexico on trek north to US

After weeks of talks, Jordan and Syria have decided to reopen the border crossing on Monday after three years, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, the move came after teams from both the countries met on the Jordanian side on Sunday and agreed on the final arrangements to open the crossing. Normal traffic between both the countries will not be opened just yet, Nael Husami, head of the Amman chamber of industry was quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

The Jaber crossing, known as Naseeb on the Syrian side, was a key route for Middle East trade before Amman closed it in 2015 after the post was overrun by rebels.

The area around the border crossing at Naseeb was reclaimed by Syria this July during a weeks-long Russian-backed offensive to drive rebels from their stronghold in southwest Syria.

Syria has a normally operating border with Lebanon. With Turkey, its frontier is only open into rebel-held areas. Its border crossing with Iraq is only open for government or military uses.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After weeks of talks, Jordan and Syria have decided to reopen the border crossing on Monday after three years, news agency Reuters reported. According to reports, the move came after teams from both the countries met on the Jordanian side on Sunday and agreed on the final arrangements to open the crossing.

After weeks of talks, Jordan and Syria have decided to reopen the border crossing on Monday after three years, news agency Reuters reported. According to reports, the move came after teams from both the countries met on the Jordanian side on Sunday and agreed on the final arrangements to open the crossing. Normal traffic between both the countries will not be opened just yet, Nael Husami, head of the Amman chamber of industry was quoted by Reuters. The Jaber crossing, known as Naseeb on the Syrian side, was a key route for Middle East trade before Amman closed it in 2015 after the post was overrun by rebels. The area around the border crossing at Naseeb was reclaimed by Syria this July during a weeks-long Russian-backed offensive to drive rebels from their stronghold in southwest Syria. Syria has a normally operating border with Lebanon. With Turkey, its frontier is only open into rebel-held areas. Its border crossing with Iraq is only open for government or military uses. (With inputs from agencies)

After three years, Jordan and Syria decide to reopen border crossing

&nbsp;A soldier and two terrorists were killed in an encounter in the Panar forest area of Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora district today, officials said. 
 
"Two terrorists have been killed in an ongoing operation in Panar forest area of Bandipora district (in north Kashmir)," a defence spokesman said in Srinagar.

He added that a soldier also lost his life in the operation.

Further details are awaited, the spokesman said.

He added that a soldier also lost his life in the operation

A soldier and two terrorists were killed in an encounter in the Panar forest area of Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora district today, officials said. "Two terrorists have been killed in an ongoing operation in Panar forest area of Bandipora district (in north Kashmir)," a defence spokesman said in Srinagar. He added that a soldier also lost his life in the operation. Further details are awaited, the spokesman said.

Soldier, 2 terrorists killed in encounter in J&K's Bandipora

Pakistan today summoned <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-4-bsf-personnel-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-143986">India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner</a> alleging ceasefire violation by India along the Line of Control(LoC).

At least 4 BSF personnel were killed as Pakistan opened fire in the Chambliyal sector of Samba on Wednesday morning. Three other soldiers were injured during the unprovoked firing on the border.

BSF's Kamal Nath Choubey said ceasefire is always a bilateral decision, we have always maintained the sanctity of ceasefire but Pakistan has violated it.&nbsp;

"We are always prepared, ceasefire or no ceasefire there is no let up in border surveillance," Choubey added.

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Jammu: Wreath laying ceremony of BSF's Assistant Commandant Jitendra Singh, Sub Inspector Rajneesh Kumar, ASI Ramniwas and Constable Hansraj Gurjar who lost their lives today in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba. <a href="https://t.co/RCUPHxtnEL">pic.twitter.com/RCUPHxtnEL</a>
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India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed to stick to the 2003 ceasefire agreement between the two countries three weeks ago, despite that firing along the border has continued unabated.

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident.

During the firing on Wednesday, &nbsp;two BSF soldiers, one assistant commandant and one sub-inspector were killed.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kfMupKXp03Q" width="560"></iframe>

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident.

Pakistan today summoned India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner alleging ceasefire violation by India along the Line of Control(LoC). At least 4 BSF personnel were killed as Pakistan opened fire in the Chambliyal sector of Samba on Wednesday morning. Three other soldiers were injured during the unprovoked firing on the border. BSF's Kamal Nath Choubey said ceasefire is always a bilateral decision, we have always maintained the sanctity of ceasefire but Pakistan has violated it. "We are always prepared, ceasefire or no ceasefire there is no let up in border surveillance," Choubey added. Jammu: Wreath laying ceremony of BSF's Assistant Commandant Jitendra Singh, Sub Inspector Rajneesh Kumar, ASI Ramniwas and Constable Hansraj Gurjar who lost their lives today in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba. pic.twitter.com/RCUPHxtnEL — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2018 × India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed to stick to the 2003 ceasefire agreement between the two countries three weeks ago, despite that firing along the border has continued unabated. Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident. During the firing on Wednesday, two BSF soldiers, one assistant commandant and one sub-inspector were killed.

Pakistan summons India's Deputy High Commissioner after firing along LoC

Thirteen-year-old Shivpaul was playing with his younger brother Krishan Lal Sharma when a Pakistani mortar shell exploded inside their house in Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir. 
Recuperating at the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital here Shivpaul asks only one question - about the well being of his brother. Ten-year-old Krishan Lal Sharma, however, was not as fortunate as his elder sibling. He died on the spot.

Their mother Champa was being treated at a local hospital.

In the GMC hospital emergency ward, close to where Shivpaul was recovering, 21-year-old Pooja, wife of an Army jawan, and her two-year-old son too were battling splinter injuries.

They were preparing to flee their home for safety when a shell tore through the roof and exploded in their bed room in the early hours, she said. Her daughter too was injured in the blast, Pooja added.

Eleven seriously injured patients were brought to the GMC hospital since this morning from different sectors as heavy shelling by Pakistani Rangers along the International Border in Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts entered the ninth day.

Five people including the 10-year-old Sharma were killed in the shelling today, raising the death toll in the ongoing skirmishes to twelve including two BSF jawans and an eight-month-old boy.

The state has witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC). Over 700 such incidents were reported this year, which have left more than 44 people, including 18 security personnel, dead and scores injured.&nbsp

In another special ward, 50-year-old Santosh Kumari, resident of Londi village of Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, was mourning the loss of her husband.

"It was around 5.30am when a shell landed at our house and exploded with a big bang, critically injuring Devi, her husband Rampaul Sharma and two others besides killing several bovines. We immediately shifted them to a local hospital and after first aid they were brought here. However, Rampaul was declared brought dead," Ashok Kumar Sharma, younger brother of the deceased, told PTI.

A retired Army jawan, Ashok Kumar Sharma, criticised the central government for its "failure to ensure peace on the borders" and said the much-publicised underground bunkers were nothing but an eye-wash.

"Where are the promised bunkers? Our village has not even a single community bunker leave aside the individual bunkers for each family," he said.

The body of his brother was still lying in the hospital as the family could not decide whether to carry it back home for cremation or wait as heavy shelling was still on.

Surinder Singh (45), a resident of Naibasti area of Suchetgarh, said he was moving his cattle out of the firing zone when a shell exploded killing a friend and injuring him.

Singh received multiple splinter injuries in the upper parts of the body and was being attended by his brother, a soldier, and uncle.

BJP MLA Kuldeep Raj who had come to see the injured had to face tough questions from the border residents.

"The education of our children is hit due to closure of schools owing to cross-border firing. We are unable to tend our land properly, attend our cattle and now even we are unable to get brides for our sons as people are reluctant to marry their daughters in our homes due to the fear of Pakistani firing," Darshan Lal, another border resident, said.

Politicians are only visible when they have to seek votes, he claimed adding "nobody cares whether we live or die".

Subhash Chander, who was attending Surinder Singh, said the frequent shelling had made their lives miserable.

"We have witnessed both sides observing the ceasefire in November 2003 and lived a peaceful life for many years before the situation turned ugly especially after 2014," he said.

He said the border residents were unable to perform day to day activities due to the lurking threat of Pakistan shelling.

"The government also backtracked from the promised piece of land at safer places for the border residents. They are responding to Pakistani shelling more fiercely but how is this an answer to our problems. Either they should go for ceasefire or launch an all out attack," Chander said.

Amid the surcharged atmosphere inside the emergency ward, 22-year-old Sunny of Satowali village, who had just been brought by friends, wept inconsolably.

"He has splinter injuries in the arms. But his real pain is that he lost his father Raghaveer Singh, an employee in public health engineering department, in the shelling," one of his friends said.&nbsp

Medical superintendent Dara Singh said over 50 shelling victims had arrived in the hospital over the past one week.&nbsp

"While four of them were declared brought dead, Raghaveer Singh succumbed to injuries today," he said adding half of the injured were discharged after treatment.

 
Among the injured, two persons including a woman were in intensive care unit for multiple splinter injuries in vital organs, he said.

 
Singh, who was himself attending to the shelling victims, said they were being provided all facilities including medicines free.&nbsp

Five people were killed in the shelling on Wednesday, raising the death toll in the ongoing skirmishes to twelve including two BSF jawans and an eight-month-old boy.

Thirteen-year-old Shivpaul was playing with his younger brother Krishan Lal Sharma when a Pakistani mortar shell exploded inside their house in Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Recuperating at the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital here Shivpaul asks only one question - about the well being of his brother. Ten-year-old Krishan Lal Sharma, however, was not as fortunate as his elder sibling. He died on the spot. Their mother Champa was being treated at a local hospital. In the GMC hospital emergency ward, close to where Shivpaul was recovering, 21-year-old Pooja, wife of an Army jawan, and her two-year-old son too were battling splinter injuries. They were preparing to flee their home for safety when a shell tore through the roof and exploded in their bed room in the early hours, she said. Her daughter too was injured in the blast, Pooja added. Eleven seriously injured patients were brought to the GMC hospital since this morning from different sectors as heavy shelling by Pakistani Rangers along the International Border in Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts entered the ninth day. Five people including the 10-year-old Sharma were killed in the shelling today, raising the death toll in the ongoing skirmishes to twelve including two BSF jawans and an eight-month-old boy. The state has witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC). Over 700 such incidents were reported this year, which have left more than 44 people, including 18 security personnel, dead and scores injured. In another special ward, 50-year-old Santosh Kumari, resident of Londi village of Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, was mourning the loss of her husband. "It was around 5.30am when a shell landed at our house and exploded with a big bang, critically injuring Devi, her husband Rampaul Sharma and two others besides killing several bovines. We immediately shifted them to a local hospital and after first aid they were brought here. However, Rampaul was declared brought dead," Ashok Kumar Sharma, younger brother of the deceased, told PTI. A retired Army jawan, Ashok Kumar Sharma, criticised the central government for its "failure to ensure peace on the borders" and said the much-publicised underground bunkers were nothing but an eye-wash. "Where are the promised bunkers? Our village has not even a single community bunker leave aside the individual bunkers for each family," he said. The body of his brother was still lying in the hospital as the family could not decide whether to carry it back home for cremation or wait as heavy shelling was still on. Surinder Singh (45), a resident of Naibasti area of Suchetgarh, said he was moving his cattle out of the firing zone when a shell exploded killing a friend and injuring him. Singh received multiple splinter injuries in the upper parts of the body and was being attended by his brother, a soldier, and uncle. BJP MLA Kuldeep Raj who had come to see the injured had to face tough questions from the border residents. "The education of our children is hit due to closure of schools owing to cross-border firing. We are unable to tend our land properly, attend our cattle and now even we are unable to get brides for our sons as people are reluctant to marry their daughters in our homes due to the fear of Pakistani firing," Darshan Lal, another border resident, said. Politicians are only visible when they have to seek votes, he claimed adding "nobody cares whether we live or die". Subhash Chander, who was attending Surinder Singh, said the frequent shelling had made their lives miserable. "We have witnessed both sides observing the ceasefire in November 2003 and lived a peaceful life for many years before the situation turned ugly especially after 2014," he said. He said the border residents were unable to perform day to day activities due to the lurking threat of Pakistan shelling. "The government also backtracked from the promised piece of land at safer places for the border residents. They are responding to Pakistani shelling more fiercely but how is this an answer to our problems. Either they should go for ceasefire or launch an all out attack," Chander said. Amid the surcharged atmosphere inside the emergency ward, 22-year-old Sunny of Satowali village, who had just been brought by friends, wept inconsolably. "He has splinter injuries in the arms. But his real pain is that he lost his father Raghaveer Singh, an employee in public health engineering department, in the shelling," one of his friends said. Medical superintendent Dara Singh said over 50 shelling victims had arrived in the hospital over the past one week. "While four of them were declared brought dead, Raghaveer Singh succumbed to injuries today," he said adding half of the injured were discharged after treatment. Among the injured, two persons including a woman were in intensive care unit for multiple splinter injuries in vital organs, he said. Singh, who was himself attending to the shelling victims, said they were being provided all facilities including medicines free.

Children bear brunt of Pak hostility at J&K border: 10-year-old killed, 2-year-old battles splinter injuries

An unusual Scandinavian movie about a relationship between two outsiders that Variety said was "destined to be a cult classic", won the Un Certain Regard prize at Cannes on Friday.

Directed by Iranian-born Ali Abbasi and co-written by John Ajvide Lindqvist, the author of Swedish vampire movie "Let the Right One In", "Border" entertained and baffled audiences at the festival which closes on Saturday.

It is the story of Tina, a strange-looking Swedish customs officer who finds herself drawn to a similarly odd man, Vore, and discovers an uncomfortable truth about her own identity.

Variety critic Alissa Simon called it an "exciting, intelligent mix of romance, Nordic noir, social realism and supernatural horror that defies and subverts genre conventions".

Lead actress Eva Melander said: "It’s a very unpredictable story and people watching it are really touched by it. They go out from the cinema and they kind of forget their mobile phone and wonder: 'What’s this and what did I just see?'".

Un Certain Regard is the second-tier competition at Cannes, which closes on Saturday with the award of the Palme d`Or and other prizes for the films in the main selection.

Among the other Un, Certain Regard winners were Belgian actor Victor Polster, who won Best Performance for his role as a transgender teenage girl`s quest to become a professional ballerina in "Girl".

Directed by Iranian-born Ali Abbasi and co-written by John Ajvide Lindqvist, the author of Swedish vampire movie 'Let the Right One In', 'Border' entertained and baffled audiences at the festival

An unusual Scandinavian movie about a relationship between two outsiders that Variety said was "destined to be a cult classic", won the Un Certain Regard prize at Cannes on Friday. Directed by Iranian-born Ali Abbasi and co-written by John Ajvide Lindqvist, the author of Swedish vampire movie "Let the Right One In", "Border" entertained and baffled audiences at the festival which closes on Saturday. It is the story of Tina, a strange-looking Swedish customs officer who finds herself drawn to a similarly odd man, Vore, and discovers an uncomfortable truth about her own identity. Variety critic Alissa Simon called it an "exciting, intelligent mix of romance, Nordic noir, social realism and supernatural horror that defies and subverts genre conventions". Lead actress Eva Melander said: "It’s a very unpredictable story and people watching it are really touched by it. They go out from the cinema and they kind of forget their mobile phone and wonder: 'What’s this and what did I just see?'". Un Certain Regard is the second-tier competition at Cannes, which closes on Saturday with the award of the Palme d`Or and other prizes for the films in the main selection. Among the other Un, Certain Regard winners were Belgian actor Victor Polster, who won Best Performance for his role as a transgender teenage girl`s quest to become a professional ballerina in "Girl".

Weird romance 'Border' wins Un Certain Regard at Cannes

Several Afghan soldiers including a policeman and a local tribesman were killed in the ongoing clashes with Pakistan's paramilitary Frontier Corps near the disputed border Durand Line on Saturday.

A regional Afghan police chief said that the clashes broke out along the Zazi Maidan border district in the southeastern province of Khost adjacent to Kurram as Pakistan initiated firing to force people outside the claimed Pakistan border, reported by Anadolu Agency.

Pakistani officials told Reuters that two Pakistani soldiers were killed.

Abdul Hanan, the acting provincial police chief in Khost said that clashes broke out in three locations along the border in the early hours of April 15 after Pakistani paramilitary troops ignored repeated warnings from locals and Afghan border police officers and crossed the border.

Though security has improved in Pakistan’s remote areas bordering Afghanistan, sectarian militant attacks, primarily targeting Shi’ite Muslims, still occur.

“Pakistani troops are exercising maximum restraint so as to avoid any Afghan civilian casualties,” the Pakistan Army’s public relations department said, adding that five soldiers were wounded in the attack.

Afghan officials said that Pakistani troops crossed on to Afghan soil, prompting a response by border forces and the local tribal force.

“Two tribesmen were killed and the exchange of fire is ongoing,” said Mohmud Zazai, a senior army commander in the area.

Pakistan has blamed Pakistani Taliban militants it says are based on Afghan soil for attacks that have taken place in the region over the past two years, urging Kabul to eradicate “sanctuaries” for militants.

Afghanistan, in turn, accuses Islamabad of sheltering the leadership of the Afghan Taliban militants who are battling the Western-backed government in Kabul.

Pakistan and Afghanistan share a nearly 2,600-kilometer largely porous border. The Pakistani military has recently started constructing a robust fence on the border in its bid to prevent illegal crossings in either direction.

A regional Afghan police chief said that the clashes broke out along the Zazi Maidan border district in the southeastern province of Khost adjacent to Kurram as Pakistan initiated firing to force people outside the claimed Pakistan border

Several Afghan soldiers including a policeman and a local tribesman were killed in the ongoing clashes with Pakistan's paramilitary Frontier Corps near the disputed border Durand Line on Saturday. A regional Afghan police chief said that the clashes broke out along the Zazi Maidan border district in the southeastern province of Khost adjacent to Kurram as Pakistan initiated firing to force people outside the claimed Pakistan border, reported by Anadolu Agency. Pakistani officials told Reuters that two Pakistani soldiers were killed. Abdul Hanan, the acting provincial police chief in Khost said that clashes broke out in three locations along the border in the early hours of April 15 after Pakistani paramilitary troops ignored repeated warnings from locals and Afghan border police officers and crossed the border. Though security has improved in Pakistan’s remote areas bordering Afghanistan, sectarian militant attacks, primarily targeting Shi’ite Muslims, still occur. “Pakistani troops are exercising maximum restraint so as to avoid any Afghan civilian casualties,” the Pakistan Army’s public relations department said, adding that five soldiers were wounded in the attack. Afghan officials said that Pakistani troops crossed on to Afghan soil, prompting a response by border forces and the local tribal force. “Two tribesmen were killed and the exchange of fire is ongoing,” said Mohmud Zazai, a senior army commander in the area. Pakistan has blamed Pakistani Taliban militants it says are based on Afghan soil for attacks that have taken place in the region over the past two years, urging Kabul to eradicate “sanctuaries” for militants. Afghanistan, in turn, accuses Islamabad of sheltering the leadership of the Afghan Taliban militants who are battling the Western-backed government in Kabul. Pakistan and Afghanistan share a nearly 2,600-kilometer largely porous border. The Pakistani military has recently started constructing a robust fence on the border in its bid to prevent illegal crossings in either direction.

Several Afghan soldiers killed in border clashes with Pakistan

According to an Afghan official, Pakistan has fired nearly 200 rockets across the border. Provincial government spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim reported the attack yesterday.

He further stated that the attack targetted the northeastern province of Kunar and killed one person. Nearly 300 residents had to flee due to the attack, Musamim added.

Pakistan has not reacted to the report.

Afghanistan and Pakistan have experienced sour relations due to cross-border terrorism and militant activity along the porous border. Both the nations have accused each other of failing to crack down on the militant operations.

According to an Afghan official, Pakistan has fired nearly 200 rockets across the border. Provincial government spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim reported the attack yesterday. He further stated that the attack targetted the northeastern province of Kunar and killed one person. Nearly 300 residents had to flee due to the attack, Musamim added. Pakistan has not reacted to the report. Afghanistan and Pakistan have experienced sour relations due to cross-border terrorism and militant activity along the porous border. Both the nations have accused each other of failing to crack down on the militant operations.

Pakistan fired 200 rockets across border: Afghan officials

Threats of shutting down the China-Pak border were issued to the China by residents of Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) region in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, who allege that over 50 women, of Chinese origins, married to the G-B residents, have been detained by Beijing without any charges against them. An all-party conference held recently urged the Chinese government to immediately release the detained families including children of the G-B traders.

It had demanded run the affairs of the Pak-China trade as per the protocol agreement. They had demanded that those traders possessing border passes should be given access to interior China and the duration of border passes should be extended.

It had also urged the Pakistani government to establish an office in Kashgar city of Sinkiang to address the problems being faced by the Pakistani traders. "It is a serious issue and if the matter is not resolved immediately it may harm the relations between Pakistan and China," said Pakistan Peoples Party G-B President Ajmad Hussain said.

"It is the job of the Foreign Office to safeguard its people but it has failed miserably," Amjad said, also blaming the Pakistan embassy in Beijing for not performing its duty. "It is like dying every day. I feel intense pain and grief. Sometimes, I become totally blank - missing my children and wife is like you have lost some of your body part - something vital one," said Ali, a resident of GB, whose two children and wife have been detained in Xinjiang province.

"It is very unfortunate. I am alive but my kids are living without parents, my wife is detained in a school building turned into a prison," he said. According to locals, they have been crossing over to China since ages, with many traders marrying Chinese women on business visits.

According to Human Rights Watch, the missing women are detained in makeshift prisons called, political education centres, since April 2017. Those who have not committed any crimes, but deem politically unreliable, who have travelled abroad or have families who live abroad or found participating in unauthorized religious activities, such as wearing headscarves or other Muslim attire are detained there.

The detainees are compelled to renounce their ethnic and religious identities, resulting in anxiety and fear among residents- whose livelihoods depend heavily on trade across the border. The GB Legislative Assembly (GBLA) passed a unanimous resolution last month, asking the federal government to take immediate steps for the release of the families.

However, sources in the Foreign Office deny having received any request from the G-B government and assert on the fact that they can act on an official government request only. G-B locals say that GBLA Deputy Speaker Jafferullah was entrusted to communicate the issue with the Foreign Office and he and many other government officials were present in previous meetings.

(With inputs from ANI)

Urging the Chinese government to immediately release the families, including children of the G-B traders, an all party conference demanded to run the affairs of the Pak-China trade as per protocols agreed upon

Threats of shutting down the China-Pak border were issued to the China by residents of Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) region in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, who allege that over 50 women, of Chinese origins, married to the G-B residents, have been detained by Beijing without any charges against them. An all-party conference held recently urged the Chinese government to immediately release the detained families including children of the G-B traders. It had demanded run the affairs of the Pak-China trade as per the protocol agreement. They had demanded that those traders possessing border passes should be given access to interior China and the duration of border passes should be extended. It had also urged the Pakistani government to establish an office in Kashgar city of Sinkiang to address the problems being faced by the Pakistani traders. "It is a serious issue and if the matter is not resolved immediately it may harm the relations between Pakistan and China," said Pakistan Peoples Party G-B President Ajmad Hussain said. "It is the job of the Foreign Office to safeguard its people but it has failed miserably," Amjad said, also blaming the Pakistan embassy in Beijing for not performing its duty. "It is like dying every day. I feel intense pain and grief. Sometimes, I become totally blank - missing my children and wife is like you have lost some of your body part - something vital one," said Ali, a resident of GB, whose two children and wife have been detained in Xinjiang province. "It is very unfortunate. I am alive but my kids are living without parents, my wife is detained in a school building turned into a prison," he said. According to locals, they have been crossing over to China since ages, with many traders marrying Chinese women on business visits. According to Human Rights Watch, the missing women are detained in makeshift prisons called, political education centres, since April 2017. Those who have not committed any crimes, but deem politically unreliable, who have travelled abroad or have families who live abroad or found participating in unauthorized religious activities, such as wearing headscarves or other Muslim attire are detained there. The detainees are compelled to renounce their ethnic and religious identities, resulting in anxiety and fear among residents- whose livelihoods depend heavily on trade across the border. The GB Legislative Assembly (GBLA) passed a unanimous resolution last month, asking the federal government to take immediate steps for the release of the families. However, sources in the Foreign Office deny having received any request from the G-B government and assert on the fact that they can act on an official government request only. G-B locals say that GBLA Deputy Speaker Jafferullah was entrusted to communicate the issue with the Foreign Office and he and many other government officials were present in previous meetings. (With inputs from ANI)

Gilgit-Baltistan residents threaten to shut border with China

Iraq`s armed forces have instructions to prevent "foreign fighters" from launching cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told his Turkish counterpart Benali Yildirim.

 
Abadi`s office said&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone.

&nbsp;

Abadi`s office said on Tuesday the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone

Iraq`s armed forces have instructions to prevent "foreign fighters" from launching cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told his Turkish counterpart Benali Yildirim. Abadi`s office said on Tuesday the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone.

Iraq opposes cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi PM Abadi tells Turkey's Yildirim

Rohingya refugees living in shelters at Cox&#39;s Bazar in Bangladesh said on Thursday (March 22) that they were facing aid shortage and harassment from Myanmar&#39;s border guards, even as an anticipated monsoon season looms in the horizon, compounding difficulties for the refugees.

Work was underway in Kutupalong camps to build additional infrastructure and drains to cope with potential heavy rains and the cyclone season. Aid agencies were ramping up efforts to distribute aid packages, but residents such as Ali Miah said they sometimes &quot;don&#39;t get any water&quot; despite twice daily supplies.

Elsewhere at the Tunbru border, which separates Bangladesh with neighbouring Myanmar, camp refugees said border guards have been constantly disturbing them. &quot;They throw stones towards our camps at night,&quot; said Noor Alam.

United Nations&#39; officials said nearly 700,000 Muslim Rohingya have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar to Bangladesh since August 2017, after militant attacks sparked a crackdown, led by security forces, in Rakhine state that the UN and United States said constitutes ethnic cleansing.

The UK&#39;s International Development Committee said the situation for Rohingya would likely worsen, with heavy rains of 2.5 metres predicted to fall from June through August.

Heavy rains of 2.5 metres predicted to fall from June through August

Rohingya refugees living in shelters at Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh said on Thursday (March 22) that they were facing aid shortage and harassment from Myanmar's border guards, even as an anticipated monsoon season looms in the horizon, compounding difficulties for the refugees. Work was underway in Kutupalong camps to build additional infrastructure and drains to cope with potential heavy rains and the cyclone season. Aid agencies were ramping up efforts to distribute aid packages, but residents such as Ali Miah said they sometimes "don't get any water" despite twice daily supplies. Elsewhere at the Tunbru border, which separates Bangladesh with neighbouring Myanmar, camp refugees said border guards have been constantly disturbing them. "They throw stones towards our camps at night," said Noor Alam. United Nations' officials said nearly 700,000 Muslim Rohingya have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar to Bangladesh since August 2017, after militant attacks sparked a crackdown, led by security forces, in Rakhine state that the UN and United States said constitutes ethnic cleansing. The UK's International Development Committee said the situation for Rohingya would likely worsen, with heavy rains of 2.5 metres predicted to fall from June through August.

Rohingya refugees face aid shortage, harassment ahead of monsoon season in Bangladesh

As China should work towards reducing tension in the Indian Ocean Region and put pressure on Pakistan to accept India&#39;s position over Kashmir, an improved Sino-Indian relationship can only be possible if India, in response, should agree to facilitate the unhindered utilisation of Chinese-built road through Aksai Chin. The Chinese built this road to serve some very crucial logistical purposes, particularly, to connect with the Xin Jiang province, the raison de etre for the occupation of Aksai Chin in 1962. Further, India should also agree to transit facilities to China for CPEC infrastructure, passing through the Indian territory in POK.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China needs to persuade Pakistan to see reason in revisiting their political priorities. Pakistan&#39;s Kashmir obsession has catapulted it into a political cauldron of the economic mess, governance deficit and slanderous afflictions associated with terrorism. It has been amply proved in Pakistan&#39;s case that the religion alone is not the binding force to sustain the viability of a nation-state. Pakistan needs to introspect their politico-religious concepts as they have failed to keep East Pakistan based on it and there are dissident movements continuing within Pakistan, indicating flaws in theological overreach which Pakistan propagates in Kashmir.

Moreover, looking at current US strategic interests, Russian assertiveness, and Chinese aggressiveness in the Asian landscape,&nbsp; it has the potential to impact on political autonomy and security of Pakistan itself.&nbsp; Reconciliation with India would bestow higher political buoyancy to absorb the negative influences of extra-regional manipulations which is a bigger threat to them as on date. Pakistani civil society and think tanks are abuzz with such fears and have been vocal in favour of an urgent need of a reality check by the ruling establishment.&nbsp;

Post reconciliation, if it happens, Pakistan would no longer require strategic depth against India which has been the primary motive of their complicity in fostering insurgency in Afghanistan. As a cascading effect, it would pave the way for reconciliation amongst the warring factions of Afghanistan as Pakistan have substantial influence over Taliban and their affiliates. It will help in bringing about political stability in the Af-Pak region, leading to a gradual reduction in terrorism, a matter of grave international concern. It would also deny any excuse for extra-regional powers to meddle in their internal affairs to an extent they do it as of now.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With security situation improving in Afghanistan, the success of CPEC would get a further boost with the participation of Central Asian Republics and Eurasian countries. Besides this, Pakistan would have much needed higher economic synergies with a friendly India and its&nbsp; MFN status for trade and commerce. As a consequence, Pakistan would have fair chances to bring about their economic turnaround. It is time for Pakistan to realise that their political vibrancy is a function of regional cohesiveness and not extra-regional political surrogacy.&nbsp;

The&nbsp; spectre of ten ASEAN heads of states on 69th republic day of India, Quad sponsored mil exercises in Indo- Pacific, suspension&nbsp; of US aid to Pakistan,&nbsp; Indian&nbsp; concern on illegality of CPEC alignment through POK, Chabahar port as an alternate linkage to Afghanistan and Eurasia are all links to a subtle&nbsp; political message to China and Pakistan combine signaling them to revisit their priority matrix . India is central to this diplomatic push being the dominant power in IOR and South Asian landscape, hence need be taken seriously.&nbsp;

Unlike Chinese self-seeking exclusivity, India has aspirations of peaceful growth including everyone as per their ancient philosophy of &ldquo;Vasudeva Kutumbam&rdquo;(the world is one family). The key to Chinese aspirations and Pakistani politico-economic stability lies in recognising the legally correct status of J&amp;K as it existed at the time of accession with India, and restoring forced occupation of its territories to India. Yes, it is difficult to change the subversive political narratives propagated by both China and Pakistan for their vested interests all these years. But, given the current national interests of all parties, reconciliation is the only sensible way forward, and it is bound to happen sooner or later. Therefore, it is time to move away from the designed manipulative discourses by the Chinese as well as Pakistani leaders.&nbsp;

India as an economically vibrant, militarily strong, politically mature nation with strong strategic pull is a beacon to be rallied around to bring in positive political synergies in the South Asian landscape.&nbsp; Marching together with India will bring about higher strategic dividends to both China as well as Pakistan, a win-win situation for all.&nbsp;

To do all these, the Chinese political tango needs a paradigm shift in the orchestration of her steps in sync with contemporary global strategic outlook and keeping in rhythm with regional compatriots to achieve their ambitions of world leadership role. The ball is in China&rsquo;s court. Take it, or leave it.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

China needs to persuade Pakistan to see reason in revisiting their political priorities in Kashmir.

As China should work towards reducing tension in the Indian Ocean Region and put pressure on Pakistan to accept India's position over Kashmir, an improved Sino-Indian relationship can only be possible if India, in response, should agree to facilitate the unhindered utilisation of Chinese-built road through Aksai Chin. The Chinese built this road to serve some very crucial logistical purposes, particularly, to connect with the Xin Jiang province, the raison de etre for the occupation of Aksai Chin in 1962. Further, India should also agree to transit facilities to China for CPEC infrastructure, passing through the Indian territory in POK. China needs to persuade Pakistan to see reason in revisiting their political priorities. Pakistan's Kashmir obsession has catapulted it into a political cauldron of the economic mess, governance deficit and slanderous afflictions associated with terrorism. It has been amply proved in Pakistan's case that the religion alone is not the binding force to sustain the viability of a nation-state. Pakistan needs to introspect their politico-religious concepts as they have failed to keep East Pakistan based on it and there are dissident movements continuing within Pakistan, indicating flaws in theological overreach which Pakistan propagates in Kashmir. Moreover, looking at current US strategic interests, Russian assertiveness, and Chinese aggressiveness in the Asian landscape, it has the potential to impact on political autonomy and security of Pakistan itself. Reconciliation with India would bestow higher political buoyancy to absorb the negative influences of extra-regional manipulations which is a bigger threat to them as on date. Pakistani civil society and think tanks are abuzz with such fears and have been vocal in favour of an urgent need of a reality check by the ruling establishment. Post reconciliation, if it happens, Pakistan would no longer require strategic depth against India which has been the primary motive of their complicity in fostering insurgency in Afghanistan. As a cascading effect, it would pave the way for reconciliation amongst the warring factions of Afghanistan as Pakistan have substantial influence over Taliban and their affiliates. It will help in bringing about political stability in the Af-Pak region, leading to a gradual reduction in terrorism, a matter of grave international concern. It would also deny any excuse for extra-regional powers to meddle in their internal affairs to an extent they do it as of now. With security situation improving in Afghanistan, the success of CPEC would get a further boost with the participation of Central Asian Republics and Eurasian countries. Besides this, Pakistan would have much needed higher economic synergies with a friendly India and its MFN status for trade and commerce. As a consequence, Pakistan would have fair chances to bring about their economic turnaround. It is time for Pakistan to realise that their political vibrancy is a function of regional cohesiveness and not extra-regional political surrogacy. The spectre of ten ASEAN heads of states on 69th republic day of India, Quad sponsored mil exercises in Indo- Pacific, suspension of US aid to Pakistan, Indian concern on illegality of CPEC alignment through POK, Chabahar port as an alternate linkage to Afghanistan and Eurasia are all links to a subtle political message to China and Pakistan combine signaling them to revisit their priority matrix . India is central to this diplomatic push being the dominant power in IOR and South Asian landscape, hence need be taken seriously. Unlike Chinese self-seeking exclusivity, India has aspirations of peaceful growth including everyone as per their ancient philosophy of “Vasudeva Kutumbam”(the world is one family). The key to Chinese aspirations and Pakistani politico-economic stability lies in recognising the legally correct status of J&K as it existed at the time of accession with India, and restoring forced occupation of its territories to India. Yes, it is difficult to change the subversive political narratives propagated by both China and Pakistan for their vested interests all these years. But, given the current national interests of all parties, reconciliation is the only sensible way forward, and it is bound to happen sooner or later. Therefore, it is time to move away from the designed manipulative discourses by the Chinese as well as Pakistani leaders. India as an economically vibrant, militarily strong, politically mature nation with strong strategic pull is a beacon to be rallied around to bring in positive political synergies in the South Asian landscape. Marching together with India will bring about higher strategic dividends to both China as well as Pakistan, a win-win situation for all. To do all these, the Chinese political tango needs a paradigm shift in the orchestration of her steps in sync with contemporary global strategic outlook and keeping in rhythm with regional compatriots to achieve their ambitions of world leadership role. The ball is in China’s court. Take it, or leave it. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Kashmir is key to political reconciliation between India, Pakistan, China

Egypt decided to open the Rafah border crossing with the Gaza Strip for four days starting from Wednesday, the Palestinian embassy in Cairo said in a statement Tuesday.

&quot;The Egyptian authorities decided to open Rafah border crossing for four days, starting from Wednesday and ending on Saturday, for the travel and return of Palestinian citizens in both directions,&quot; the statement said.

Some 160 Palestinians, who were stranded in Cairo&#39;s airport for nearly two weeks after being denied entry to the Gaza Strip, are being allowed to return to the enclave.&nbsp;

The group was stranded in Cairo airport for 13 days after Egypt suddenly closed the border crossing. Egypt had previously said it would temporarily open the Rafah crossing on February 7 for three days, but closed it two days later, on February 9.

The Palestinian embassy in Cairo confirmed the opening of Gaza&#39;s main gateway to the outside world.

Thousands of Gaza residents are on travel lists, most of them medical patients, students and holders of residency permits of other countries. Only a few thousand will make it out in the time allotted.

Egypt has kept Rafah largely sealed off since 2013, after the ouster of Egypt&#39;s elected Islamist President Mohammed Morsi.&nbsp;

The two officials said today the Rafah crossing point will operate starting tomorrow for four days on a humanitarian basis

Egypt decided to open the Rafah border crossing with the Gaza Strip for four days starting from Wednesday, the Palestinian embassy in Cairo said in a statement Tuesday. "The Egyptian authorities decided to open Rafah border crossing for four days, starting from Wednesday and ending on Saturday, for the travel and return of Palestinian citizens in both directions," the statement said. Some 160 Palestinians, who were stranded in Cairo's airport for nearly two weeks after being denied entry to the Gaza Strip, are being allowed to return to the enclave. The group was stranded in Cairo airport for 13 days after Egypt suddenly closed the border crossing. Egypt had previously said it would temporarily open the Rafah crossing on February 7 for three days, but closed it two days later, on February 9. The Palestinian embassy in Cairo confirmed the opening of Gaza's main gateway to the outside world. Thousands of Gaza residents are on travel lists, most of them medical patients, students and holders of residency permits of other countries. Only a few thousand will make it out in the time allotted. Egypt has kept Rafah largely sealed off since 2013, after the ouster of Egypt's elected Islamist President Mohammed Morsi.

Egypt opens border gate to Gaza Strip for four days

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dual-suspension-proposal-most-feasible-plan-on-north-korea-china-24400">North Korea</a> has petitioned the Russian parliament to help 3,500 migrant workers from the isolated Asian country stay in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-targets-international-media-6747"> Russia </a>despite new UN&nbsp;sanctions, the Interfax news agency reported on Friday, citing a Russian lawmaker.

Tougher sanctions on North Korea, imposed by the United Nations Security Council over Pyongyang&#39;s ballistic missile and nuclear programs on Sept. 11, banned countries from providing new work permits for North Korean nationals, but allowed existing workers to remain.

Most of the around 30,000-40,000 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-defector-was-shot-six-times-by-border-troops-unc-24148">North Korean migrants</a> legally working in Russia were hired before the new sanctions entered into force and the ban will not affect them, Interfax said, quoting an earlier statement from Maxim Topilin, Russia&#39;s labour minister.

But the ban could apply to 3,500 workers who only signed their contracts in September, the month when the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-says-north-korean-leader-begging-for-war-as-un-mulls-sanctions-19865">UN&nbsp;Security Council</a>, including Russia, voted for the new sanctions, Interfax reported.

It cited Kazbek Taysayev, a lawmaker in the lower house of parliament and a member of a &quot;friendship group&quot; between the Russian and North Korean parliaments, as saying:

&quot;North Korea&#39;s embassy officially addressed us. We supported them and sent our petitions in order to let these people stay so that they can work.&quot;

Even if the workers signed their contracts after the ban took effect, they had started making arrangements and preparing the documents earlier and could be allowed to stay, said Taysayev.

The UN&nbsp;resolution said it did not apply to work permits &quot;for which written contracts have been finalized prior to the adoption of this resolution.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-reaffirm-need-for-peaceful-resolution-of-north-korea-problem-24417">North Korea&#39;s embassy</a> in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-16-dead-in-moscow-warehouse-fire-5655">Moscow</a> was not available for immediate comment.

?North Korea has petitioned the Russian parliament to help 3,500 migrant workers from the isolated Asian country stay in Russia despite new UN?sanctions

North Korea has petitioned the Russian parliament to help 3,500 migrant workers from the isolated Asian country stay in Russia despite new UN sanctions, the Interfax news agency reported on Friday, citing a Russian lawmaker. Tougher sanctions on North Korea, imposed by the United Nations Security Council over Pyongyang's ballistic missile and nuclear programs on Sept. 11, banned countries from providing new work permits for North Korean nationals, but allowed existing workers to remain. Most of the around 30,000-40,000 North Korean migrants legally working in Russia were hired before the new sanctions entered into force and the ban will not affect them, Interfax said, quoting an earlier statement from Maxim Topilin, Russia's labour minister. But the ban could apply to 3,500 workers who only signed their contracts in September, the month when the UN Security Council, including Russia, voted for the new sanctions, Interfax reported. It cited Kazbek Taysayev, a lawmaker in the lower house of parliament and a member of a "friendship group" between the Russian and North Korean parliaments, as saying: "North Korea's embassy officially addressed us. We supported them and sent our petitions in order to let these people stay so that they can work." Even if the workers signed their contracts after the ban took effect, they had started making arrangements and preparing the documents earlier and could be allowed to stay, said Taysayev. The UN resolution said it did not apply to work permits "for which written contracts have been finalized prior to the adoption of this resolution." North Korea's embassy in Moscow was not available for immediate comment.

North Korea petitions Russia to let workers stay despite UN sanctions: Report

Donald Trump might be threatening to build a wall all along it but on Saturday -- Sunday is UN Children&#39;s Day -- the US-Mexico border &quot;opened&quot; for just a little bit. Three minutes to be exact.

Migrant advocacy group Border Angels got six Mexican-American families to meet their long-separated relatives from across the border as part of its &quot;Opening the Door of Hope&quot; event.

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Border Patrol agents patrol the United States-Mexico Border wall during the &#39;Opening the Door Of Hope&#39; event. (AFP)
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One by one, each family was escorted to the opening in the steel fence separating the San Diego suburb of San Ysidro from Tijuana in Mexico, and for three minutes -- under the watchful eye of border agents&nbsp;-- hugged and kissed their loved ones who had waited on the other side.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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For 20 years, Laura Avila (in picture)&nbsp;had yearned to hug her mother again. On Saturday, tears streaming down her face, the 35-year-old had her wish finally come true. (AFP)
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&quot;I last saw my mother when she was 50 and next week she turns 71,&quot; Avila, who lives in the Los Angeles area, told AFP after the emotional reunion. &quot;It was an early Christmas present for the two of us, and a birthday present for her.&quot;

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Laura Avila hugs her daughter Laura Vera Martinez after seeing her own mother. (AFP)
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&quot;She had to take a four-hour flight from Puebla (in east-central Mexico) to see us,&quot; Avila said of her mother who had been deported after illegally entering the US.&nbsp;Most of the six families had had parents deported back to Mexico.&nbsp;

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Luis Hernandez hugs his Father Eduardo. (AFP)
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Many like Luis Hernandez were allowed to stay in the US because of President Barack Obama&#39;s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programme which allows immigrants who arrived in the US as children to work and study in the country on a temporary basis, while the parents are deported.

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Adrian Gonalez Morales consoles his daughter Aileen after seeing, and hugging, her grandparents. (AFP)
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These so-called &quot;Dreamers&quot; &nbsp;are now worried that Trump will repeal the action, leading to tragic consequences for&nbsp;some 750,000 people. &#39;I am terrified,&#39;&nbsp;said Luis Hernandez, 25, who hadn&#39;t seen his father in five years.

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Fears over Trump pushing ahead with his harsh immigration proposals were on everyone&#39;s mind. (AFP)
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&#39;What Trump has proposed is so scary for a lot of minorities, myself included,&#39;&nbsp;said Hernandez, who runs a television and Internet service in Los Angeles. &#39;He has said he plans to undo the law that protects me.&#39;

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Briefly on Saturday, 6 Mexican-American families got to meet long-separated parents who'd been deported back to Mexico from the States

Donald Trump might be threatening to build a wall all along it but on Saturday -- Sunday is UN Children's Day -- the US-Mexico border "opened" for just a little bit. Three minutes to be exact. Migrant advocacy group Border Angels got six Mexican-American families to meet their long-separated relatives from across the border as part of its "Opening the Door of Hope" event. Border Patrol agents patrol the United States-Mexico Border wall during the 'Opening the Door Of Hope' event. (AFP) × One by one, each family was escorted to the opening in the steel fence separating the San Diego suburb of San Ysidro from Tijuana in Mexico, and for three minutes -- under the watchful eye of border agents -- hugged and kissed their loved ones who had waited on the other side. For 20 years, Laura Avila (in picture) had yearned to hug her mother again. On Saturday, tears streaming down her face, the 35-year-old had her wish finally come true. (AFP) × "I last saw my mother when she was 50 and next week she turns 71," Avila, who lives in the Los Angeles area, told AFP after the emotional reunion. "It was an early Christmas present for the two of us, and a birthday present for her." Laura Avila hugs her daughter Laura Vera Martinez after seeing her own mother. (AFP) × "She had to take a four-hour flight from Puebla (in east-central Mexico) to see us," Avila said of her mother who had been deported after illegally entering the US. Most of the six families had had parents deported back to Mexico. Luis Hernandez hugs his Father Eduardo. (AFP) × Many like Luis Hernandez were allowed to stay in the US because of President Barack Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programme which allows immigrants who arrived in the US as children to work and study in the country on a temporary basis, while the parents are deported. Adrian Gonalez Morales consoles his daughter Aileen after seeing, and hugging, her grandparents. (AFP) × These so-called "Dreamers" are now worried that Trump will repeal the action, leading to tragic consequences for some 750,000 people. 'I am terrified,' said Luis Hernandez, 25, who hadn't seen his father in five years. Fears over Trump pushing ahead with his harsh immigration proposals were on everyone's mind. (AFP) × 'What Trump has proposed is so scary for a lot of minorities, myself included,' said Hernandez, who runs a television and Internet service in Los Angeles. 'He has said he plans to undo the law that protects me.' (WION with inputs from AFP)

In pictures: After 20 years, 3 minutes to embrace on US-Mexico border

A bomb in a crowded in market in the north Afghanistan city of Mazar-i-Sharif on Tuesday killed at least two people and wounded 15, police officials said. 
 
Mazar-i-Sharif, an important commercial centre near the border with Uzbekistan, has generally been spared the violence unleashed by insurgent groups battling the NATO-backed government in Kabul. 
 
The attack on Tuesday was carried out by a suicide bomber, said police commander Baba Jan. 
 
&quot;The bomber detonated his explosives in the main market and all the victims are civilians,&quot; he said. 
 
The Ministry of Interior, however, reported that a bomb had been hidden in a cart. 
 
In February, three people were killed in an attack on a bus carrying military personnel not far from Mazar-i-Sharif, and in January, militants attacked the Indian consulate in the city. 
 
(Reuters)

Mazar-i-Sharif has generally been spared the violence unleashed by insurgent groups battling the NATO-backed government in Kabul

A bomb in a crowded in market in the north Afghanistan city of Mazar-i-Sharif on Tuesday killed at least two people and wounded 15, police officials said. Mazar-i-Sharif, an important commercial centre near the border with Uzbekistan, has generally been spared the violence unleashed by insurgent groups battling the NATO-backed government in Kabul. The attack on Tuesday was carried out by a suicide bomber, said police commander Baba Jan. "The bomber detonated his explosives in the main market and all the victims are civilians," he said. The Ministry of Interior, however, reported that a bomb had been hidden in a cart. In February, three people were killed in an attack on a bus carrying military personnel not far from Mazar-i-Sharif, and in January, militants attacked the Indian consulate in the city. (Reuters)

Bomb goes off in crowded city market in Afghanistan, two killed, 15 injured

Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;on Thursday jointly inaugurated a border check post with his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh&nbsp;Hasina&nbsp;through video conferencing and iterated the country&#39;s support to its neighbour in its anti-terror fight.

The Petrapole Integrated Check Post (ICP) in India&#39;s eastern West Bengal state is the second ICP on the India-Bangladesh border after one at the Agartala - Akhaura border. It is also the biggest land port in South Asia.

Inaugurating the ICP,&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;pitched for concerted efforts to curb militancy.

&quot;You (Bangladesh) shouldn&#39;t consider yourself alone in the fight against militancy. India completely supports you. I also want to assure Prime Minister Sheikh&nbsp;Hasina&nbsp;that India is always ready for all possible support in the fight against militancy,&quot;&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;said. 
 
Bangladeshi newpaper The Daily Star quoted Modi as saying&nbsp;&nbsp;&ldquo;It&#39;s a matter of pain for me as well as for the people of my country that there were two terror incidents in Dhaka and Kishoreganj during the holy month of Ramadan. It&#39;s a sad moment when temples and their priests as also civilians were subjected to inhumane torture.&quot; 
 
Bangladesh&#39;s security forces arrested four members of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JMB) on Thursday, including a regional leader of the banned group blamed for the Islamist attack on a cafe in Dhaka in which at least 20 people were killed.

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) raided an apartment on the outskirts of the capital Dhaka and arrested the group&#39;s southern region leader and three other members, including a medical student.

Modi&nbsp;also assured more check posts to check cross-border terrorism.

&quot;We will soon complete eight such integrated check posts on the border. Excellency, I firmly believe that economic development and connectivity are closely linked,&quot; he said.

Hasina&nbsp;added that the ICP would boost trade and people-to-people contacts.

&quot;As business between the two countries grows, the economic well-being of the people will also improve substantially. So after congratulating everybody, I wish business and trade will get a fillip through Petrapole Integrated Check Post,&quot; she said. 
 
According to the Daily Star, West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee-&nbsp;who was also a part of the videoconference-&nbsp;said that West Bengal is the gateway to Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.&nbsp;

Petrapole-Benapole is an important land border crossing as more than 50 per cent of India-Bangladesh trade passes through Petrapole.

The Petrapole ICP will provide better facilities for effective and efficient discharge of functions such as security, immigration, customs, quarantine, etc. while also providing support facilities for smooth cross-border movement of persons, goods and transport.

It will also serve to foster greater economic integration and connectivity between India and Bangladesh. 
 
(Others)

The two ministers spoke to each other while jointly inaugurating a border check post over videoconferencing on Thursday

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday jointly inaugurated a border check post with his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina through video conferencing and iterated the country's support to its neighbour in its anti-terror fight. The Petrapole Integrated Check Post (ICP) in India's eastern West Bengal state is the second ICP on the India-Bangladesh border after one at the Agartala - Akhaura border. It is also the biggest land port in South Asia. Inaugurating the ICP, Modi pitched for concerted efforts to curb militancy. "You (Bangladesh) shouldn't consider yourself alone in the fight against militancy. India completely supports you. I also want to assure Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that India is always ready for all possible support in the fight against militancy," Modi said. Bangladeshi newpaper The Daily Star quoted Modi as saying “It's a matter of pain for me as well as for the people of my country that there were two terror incidents in Dhaka and Kishoreganj during the holy month of Ramadan. It's a sad moment when temples and their priests as also civilians were subjected to inhumane torture." Bangladesh's security forces arrested four members of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JMB) on Thursday, including a regional leader of the banned group blamed for the Islamist attack on a cafe in Dhaka in which at least 20 people were killed. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) raided an apartment on the outskirts of the capital Dhaka and arrested the group's southern region leader and three other members, including a medical student. Modi also assured more check posts to check cross-border terrorism. "We will soon complete eight such integrated check posts on the border. Excellency, I firmly believe that economic development and connectivity are closely linked," he said. Hasina added that the ICP would boost trade and people-to-people contacts. "As business between the two countries grows, the economic well-being of the people will also improve substantially. So after congratulating everybody, I wish business and trade will get a fillip through Petrapole Integrated Check Post," she said. According to the Daily Star, West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee- who was also a part of the videoconference- said that West Bengal is the gateway to Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. Petrapole-Benapole is an important land border crossing as more than 50 per cent of India-Bangladesh trade passes through Petrapole. The Petrapole ICP will provide better facilities for effective and efficient discharge of functions such as security, immigration, customs, quarantine, etc. while also providing support facilities for smooth cross-border movement of persons, goods and transport. It will also serve to foster greater economic integration and connectivity between India and Bangladesh. (Others)

Do not consider yourself alone in fight against militancy: Modi to Hasina

Mexican soldiers killed five suspected criminals in a gunfight in a northern state where 14 other people were murdered over the weekend, authorities said.&nbsp;The shootout took place on Sunday on a road in the town of Valle Hermoso, some 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the US border, in the state of Tamaulipas. 
 
The soldiers were on the road when they saw armed civilians and ordered them to stop, according to the Tamaulipas Coordination Group of federal and state security forces.&nbsp;The civilians &quot;ignored them and began to shoot at the soldiers, who repelled the attack in self-defense&quot;, the group said in a statement. 
 
The dead suspects are part of a criminal group that operates in the region, the statement said yesterday, without identifying the gang. 
The Gulf cartel and their rivals, Los Zetas, have fought brutal turf wars in Tamaulipas for years.&nbsp;On Saturday, 11 members of the same family were killed by gunmen in their home in Ciudad Victoria, the state capital. 
 
Three people from another family were murdered less than an hour later in another home.&nbsp;The government said the killings in Ciudad Victoria appeared to be related to a dispute between rival gangs. 
 
(AFP)

The shootout took place 40 miles south of the US border in Valle Hermoso, where 14 other people were murdered over the weekend

Mexican soldiers killed five suspected criminals in a gunfight in a northern state where 14 other people were murdered over the weekend, authorities said. The shootout took place on Sunday on a road in the town of Valle Hermoso, some 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the US border, in the state of Tamaulipas. The soldiers were on the road when they saw armed civilians and ordered them to stop, according to the Tamaulipas Coordination Group of federal and state security forces. The civilians "ignored them and began to shoot at the soldiers, who repelled the attack in self-defense", the group said in a statement. The dead suspects are part of a criminal group that operates in the region, the statement said yesterday, without identifying the gang. The Gulf cartel and their rivals, Los Zetas, have fought brutal turf wars in Tamaulipas for years. On Saturday, 11 members of the same family were killed by gunmen in their home in Ciudad Victoria, the state capital. Three people from another family were murdered less than an hour later in another home. The government said the killings in Ciudad Victoria appeared to be related to a dispute between rival gangs. (AFP)

Mexican soldiers kill 5 suspected criminals in gunfight

<div style="text-align: justify;">Anuradha editing 
 
 
The Indian government is considering constructing&nbsp;a massive $6-billion highway across its border with China in the North-East. This Frontier Highway project that focuses on making the area flanking the Indo-China border accessible by motorable roads&nbsp;may be crucial to India&rsquo;s deterrence plans vis-a-vis China,&nbsp;but the road seems to be a rough one. 
 
The silence of the lofty Himalayas is broken by the periodic sound of dynamite charges. Mountain walls come down in a hail of boulders and pebbles, bulldozers work through the cold of the night. 
 
Tawang is the centre point in a longstanding international border dispute between India and China. The town, home to a 400-year-old Buddhist monastery and heavy Indian military presence, falls in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. The state is roughly the size of Austria and sits on India&rsquo;s border with China to its northeast. 
China claims parts of the state as its own.&nbsp;Beijing calls Arunachal &lsquo;South Tibet&rsquo;. For long, Indian authorities have neglected infrastructure work here. But now, work to build a two-lane and over-1500-km-long Trans-Arunachal Highway is on. The Indian authorities hope to not just mark their territory here conclusively by building the highway, but also by settling Indian nationals for whom the terrain has been inaccessible so far.&nbsp; 
 
Heavy rains in Khonsa, another town in the state, have further complicated Kanwal Singh&#39;s task. Singh is the site manager, responsible for work on a 42-kilometre-long stretch of the grand project. Heavy rains and landslides have hampered movement of machinery. Work has come to a screeching halt. It will take roughly three years to complete this stretch. Once the entire project is completed, the Trans-Arunachal Highway will connect eleven major districts of the state with each other. 
However, in 2018, India gears up to launch another more ambitious project and one with a strict strategic focus. The proposed 2000-km-long Frontier Highway would run from Mago-Thingbu near Tawang in the east to Vijaynagar in the west along the border. The approximately $6.5-billion highway will run along the McMahon Line, a line that separates India&#39;s border with China. Indian observer Sanjoy Hazarika says, &quot;As the strategic interests of the Indian state are concerned, it is an assertion of its rights on Arunachal vis-a-vis China&#39;s claims.&quot; 
Not only will the project cost a bomb but it comes with strategic and economic ramifications that can not be overlooked. &quot;China&rsquo;s official position on Arunachal Pradesh has been clear, it is a part of China. Beijing claims the entire state but the Tawang tract is the crucial one with regard to India-China border dispute in the eastern sector,&quot; Dr Lu Yang, postdoctoral fellow at Tsinghua University tells WIONews. 
Hazarika believes that though the construction of the Frontier Highway will help India secure its northeastern border, in the long-run, economic significance will play a larger part. Also, the complex history of the region is sure to make its effect felt. 
In 1914, at a convention aimed to settle border disputes between the then British Indian government and China, British chief negotiator Sir Henry McMahon drew a line with a red-marker to delineate the Tibet-India border. Tawang was considered Tibetan territory at the time. It was not until 1951 that the Buddhist town was officially taken over by India. In 1962, tensions peaked between India and China over the disputed border. In fact, Tawang was a flash point in the 1962 Sino-India war. 
&quot;This highway is India&#39;s way of making a point that Tawang is an integral part of India. China, it has to be kept in mind, claims not just Tawang but the entire state,&quot; says Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of Imphal Free Press, an Indian daily. 
There is an air of ambiguity about what&#39;s being touted as India&#39;s biggest infrastructure project. The idea to construct the highway was conceived way back in 2008. About two years back, Kiren Rijiju, an Indian minister who hails from Arunachal Pradesh, had rallied behind the massive infrastructure project. But today, the enthusiasm seems to be fading. New Delhi is tight-lipped about the status of the project. Ramnganing Muivah, secretary of the North Eastern Council, a body set up by India to monitor and ensure development of the country&rsquo;s northeastern part, said he had no idea about the Frontier Highway project. 
Many experts think the project is unrealistic and impractical. They question the real need to construct such a long highway to repopulate isolated villages along the international border. Arunachal already has a road network that links almost all of its districts and covers nearly every village. So, they think it makes more sense to invest in bettering the existing roads and build more schools and hospitals. Tongam Rina, a prominent journalist based in Itanagar, the state capital of Arunachal Pradesh, calls the project &#39;extremely ambitious&#39;. &quot;You do not need roads and highways to repopulate areas,&quot; she feels. Rina says while roads have been laid in the interiors, progress on the ongoing Trans-Arunachal Project has been slow. Highlighting the plight of local villagers, Hazarika thinks building schools and hospitals in Arunachal Pradesh should be the priority. &quot;There is no medical college in the state. Locals have to travel all the way to neighbouring Assam to get proper medical attention,&quot; he says. 
Finance is another grey area. Who will foot the $6.5-billion bill? &quot;The Indian economy lacks depth,&rdquo; Hazarika is blunt. China has, in the meantime, pumped in billions over the years to build an impressive road and rail network on its side, he says. It is highly unlikely that international funders like the World Bank or Asian Development Bank would be willing to invest in what the world sees as a &ldquo;troublesome territory&rdquo;, Hazarika feels. 
The other way is to turn to private investors. But even that is a difficult path. Another project underway in this region with help from Japan is already facing executional roadblocks. Rina is sceptical if private investors can be lured in. &quot;Arunachal has a record of not utilising funds,&quot; she points out. 
The more pressing issue seems to be the dismal state of existing roads in the state. Just the cost of repairs would run into millions of dollars. Rina thinks, &quot;It&#39;s not that the government does not allocate enough funds. Due to corruption, the money is not utilised in the right place.&quot; 
Arunachal falls in category five seismic zone. This means the state is extremely vulnerable to the risk of high-intensity earthquakes. When you are building roads, this is a point that can&rsquo;t be discounted. 
&nbsp;In January this year, the state&rsquo;s governor J.P. Rajkhowa called for speedy execution of the Frontier Highway project. Speaking to the Indian daily, The Indian Express, he said, &ldquo;The pace of implementation of these road projects needs to be expedited, for which, I urge upon the people and the government to sort out the issues of land acquisition, forest clearances, logistic support, security and law and order on top priority basis.&rdquo; 
The Frontier Highway Project may be crucial to India&rsquo;s deterrence plans vis-a-vis China. It may also provide necessary boost to the economy of Arunachal Pradesh. But the road seems to be a rough one.</div>

The Indian government is planning a massive $6 billion highway across its border with China in the North-East. The Frontier Highway Project may be crucial to India?s deterrence plans vis-a-vis China. But the road seems to be a rough one.

Anuradha editing The Indian government is considering constructing a massive $6-billion highway across its border with China in the North-East. This Frontier Highway project that focuses on making the area flanking the Indo-China border accessible by motorable roads may be crucial to India’s deterrence plans vis-a-vis China, but the road seems to be a rough one. The silence of the lofty Himalayas is broken by the periodic sound of dynamite charges. Mountain walls come down in a hail of boulders and pebbles, bulldozers work through the cold of the night. Tawang is the centre point in a longstanding international border dispute between India and China. The town, home to a 400-year-old Buddhist monastery and heavy Indian military presence, falls in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. The state is roughly the size of Austria and sits on India’s border with China to its northeast. China claims parts of the state as its own. Beijing calls Arunachal ‘South Tibet’. For long, Indian authorities have neglected infrastructure work here. But now, work to build a two-lane and over-1500-km-long Trans-Arunachal Highway is on. The Indian authorities hope to not just mark their territory here conclusively by building the highway, but also by settling Indian nationals for whom the terrain has been inaccessible so far. Heavy rains in Khonsa, another town in the state, have further complicated Kanwal Singh's task. Singh is the site manager, responsible for work on a 42-kilometre-long stretch of the grand project. Heavy rains and landslides have hampered movement of machinery. Work has come to a screeching halt. It will take roughly three years to complete this stretch. Once the entire project is completed, the Trans-Arunachal Highway will connect eleven major districts of the state with each other. However, in 2018, India gears up to launch another more ambitious project and one with a strict strategic focus. The proposed 2000-km-long Frontier Highway would run from Mago-Thingbu near Tawang in the east to Vijaynagar in the west along the border. The approximately $6.5-billion highway will run along the McMahon Line, a line that separates India's border with China. Indian observer Sanjoy Hazarika says, "As the strategic interests of the Indian state are concerned, it is an assertion of its rights on Arunachal vis-a-vis China's claims." Not only will the project cost a bomb but it comes with strategic and economic ramifications that can not be overlooked. "China’s official position on Arunachal Pradesh has been clear, it is a part of China. Beijing claims the entire state but the Tawang tract is the crucial one with regard to India-China border dispute in the eastern sector," Dr Lu Yang, postdoctoral fellow at Tsinghua University tells WIONews. Hazarika believes that though the construction of the Frontier Highway will help India secure its northeastern border, in the long-run, economic significance will play a larger part. Also, the complex history of the region is sure to make its effect felt. In 1914, at a convention aimed to settle border disputes between the then British Indian government and China, British chief negotiator Sir Henry McMahon drew a line with a red-marker to delineate the Tibet-India border. Tawang was considered Tibetan territory at the time. It was not until 1951 that the Buddhist town was officially taken over by India. In 1962, tensions peaked between India and China over the disputed border. In fact, Tawang was a flash point in the 1962 Sino-India war. "This highway is India's way of making a point that Tawang is an integral part of India. China, it has to be kept in mind, claims not just Tawang but the entire state," says Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of Imphal Free Press, an Indian daily. There is an air of ambiguity about what's being touted as India's biggest infrastructure project. The idea to construct the highway was conceived way back in 2008. About two years back, Kiren Rijiju, an Indian minister who hails from Arunachal Pradesh, had rallied behind the massive infrastructure project. But today, the enthusiasm seems to be fading. New Delhi is tight-lipped about the status of the project. Ramnganing Muivah, secretary of the North Eastern Council, a body set up by India to monitor and ensure development of the country’s northeastern part, said he had no idea about the Frontier Highway project. Many experts think the project is unrealistic and impractical. They question the real need to construct such a long highway to repopulate isolated villages along the international border. Arunachal already has a road network that links almost all of its districts and covers nearly every village. So, they think it makes more sense to invest in bettering the existing roads and build more schools and hospitals. Tongam Rina, a prominent journalist based in Itanagar, the state capital of Arunachal Pradesh, calls the project 'extremely ambitious'. "You do not need roads and highways to repopulate areas," she feels. Rina says while roads have been laid in the interiors, progress on the ongoing Trans-Arunachal Project has been slow. Highlighting the plight of local villagers, Hazarika thinks building schools and hospitals in Arunachal Pradesh should be the priority. "There is no medical college in the state. Locals have to travel all the way to neighbouring Assam to get proper medical attention," he says. Finance is another grey area. Who will foot the $6.5-billion bill? "The Indian economy lacks depth,” Hazarika is blunt. China has, in the meantime, pumped in billions over the years to build an impressive road and rail network on its side, he says. It is highly unlikely that international funders like the World Bank or Asian Development Bank would be willing to invest in what the world sees as a “troublesome territory”, Hazarika feels. The other way is to turn to private investors. But even that is a difficult path. Another project underway in this region with help from Japan is already facing executional roadblocks. Rina is sceptical if private investors can be lured in. "Arunachal has a record of not utilising funds," she points out. The more pressing issue seems to be the dismal state of existing roads in the state. Just the cost of repairs would run into millions of dollars. Rina thinks, "It's not that the government does not allocate enough funds. Due to corruption, the money is not utilised in the right place." Arunachal falls in category five seismic zone. This means the state is extremely vulnerable to the risk of high-intensity earthquakes. When you are building roads, this is a point that can’t be discounted. In January this year, the state’s governor J.P. Rajkhowa called for speedy execution of the Frontier Highway project. Speaking to the Indian daily, The Indian Express, he said, “The pace of implementation of these road projects needs to be expedited, for which, I urge upon the people and the government to sort out the issues of land acquisition, forest clearances, logistic support, security and law and order on top priority basis.” The Frontier Highway Project may be crucial to India’s deterrence plans vis-a-vis China. It may also provide necessary boost to the economy of Arunachal Pradesh. But the road seems to be a rough one.

$6-billion highway without concrete vision

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