A day after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said he wants to resolve all issues with India, countries Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa asserted that the peace between the two neighbours would help to "unlock" the potential of the South and Central Asia.

WION Dispatch: After Imran Khan, Pak's Army Chief talks peace with India

A Pakistan politician claimed that fearing an attack by India, the Imran Khan Government had abruptly released Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

In a speech in the National Assembly, Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had in an important meeting pointed out that if Pakistan did not release Abhinandan Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan "that night by 9 pm."

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“General Bajwa came into the Room &amp; his Legs were Shaking. Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SMQureshiPTI</a> said- For God’s sake let Abhinandan go, India’s about to attack Pakistan at 9PM.”- Ayaz Sadiq in Parliament of Pakistan. 
Now this is on Record of Proceedings in Pakistan’s Parliament.😂🤣 <a href="https://t.co/i1LqpwoFNS">pic.twitter.com/i1LqpwoFNS</a>
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The PML-N leader told opposition leaders that Qureshi in a meeting with the parliamentary leaders, including PPP and PML-N and Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, had asked for Abhinandan to be let free.

"I remember Shah Mahmood Qureshi was in the meeting in which Imran Khan had refused to attend and Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room, his legs were shaking and he was perspiring.&nbsp;

Foreign Minister said for God`s sake let Abhinandan go, India`s about to attack Pakistan at 9 PM", Sadiq recounted the events of the important meeting. Dunya News further quoted Sadiq as saying that the opposition has supported the government in all issues including Abhinandan but will not be able to further support it.

Wing Commander Varthaman shot into limelight after he shot down a Pakistani aircraft F-16, which had transgressed into the Indian airspace during a dog fight between Indian and Pakistani air force on February 27, 2019 and in the process, his plane crossed over to Pakistani side and was shot down.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was returned to India from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019. He has been awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind for his exemplary bravery. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A Pakistan politician claimed that fearing an attack by India, the Imran Khan Government had abruptly released Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

A Pakistan politician claimed that fearing an attack by India, the Imran Khan Government had abruptly released Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman. In a speech in the National Assembly, Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had in an important meeting pointed out that if Pakistan did not release Abhinandan Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan "that night by 9 pm." “General Bajwa came into the Room & his Legs were Shaking. Foreign Minister @SMQureshiPTI said- For God’s sake let Abhinandan go, India’s about to attack Pakistan at 9PM.”- Ayaz Sadiq in Parliament of Pakistan. Now this is on Record of Proceedings in Pakistan’s Parliament.😂🤣 pic.twitter.com/i1LqpwoFNS — Vaibhav Singh (@vaibhavUP65) October 28, 2020 × The PML-N leader told opposition leaders that Qureshi in a meeting with the parliamentary leaders, including PPP and PML-N and Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, had asked for Abhinandan to be let free. "I remember Shah Mahmood Qureshi was in the meeting in which Imran Khan had refused to attend and Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room, his legs were shaking and he was perspiring. Foreign Minister said for God`s sake let Abhinandan go, India`s about to attack Pakistan at 9 PM", Sadiq recounted the events of the important meeting. Dunya News further quoted Sadiq as saying that the opposition has supported the government in all issues including Abhinandan but will not be able to further support it. Wing Commander Varthaman shot into limelight after he shot down a Pakistani aircraft F-16, which had transgressed into the Indian airspace during a dog fight between Indian and Pakistani air force on February 27, 2019 and in the process, his plane crossed over to Pakistani side and was shot down. Abhinandan was returned to India from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019. He has been awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind for his exemplary bravery. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan was scared of Indian attack: Truth behind Abhinandan's release revealed

PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq's revelation that India would have attacked Pakistan at "night by 9 pm" if Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman wasn't released has created ripples in the Imran Khan-led PTI government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-was-scared-of-indian-attack-truth-behind-abhinandans-release-revealed-338667">Also Read |&nbsp;Pakistan was scared of Indian attack: Truth behind Abhinandan's release revealed</a>

Imran's association with Sadiq goes back to his college years as both Pakistan politicians studied&nbsp;in Lahore's elite Aitchison college. Sadiq is known to be one of Sharif's most trusted aides. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-sharpens-attack-on-army-isi-chief-maryam-says-sun-is-about-to-set-337967">PML(N)</a> leader was elected Speaker of the National Assembly in 2013.

Sadiq had defeated Imran Khan in the National Assembly from Lahore during the elections. However, Imran cried foul after the results were declared and the court ordered re-election as Sadiq again secured victory.

The PML(N) leader during his speech in the Pakistan Parliament said during a meeting with foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in which PPP and PML-N leaders were present the Pakistan foreign minister&nbsp;had asked IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan to be set free.

"I remember Shah Mahmood Qureshi was in the meeting in which Imran Khan had refused to attend and Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room, his legs were shaking and he was perspiring," Sadiq said in Parliament, adding,"Foreign minister Qureshi said for God's sake let Abhinandan go, India`s about to attack Pakistan at 9pm".

Wing Commander Varthaman's MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft was shot down by Pakistan's F-16 fighter during a dog fight on &nbsp;February 27 last year. Pakistan later returned Abhinandan to India who came back from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019.

Wg Commander Abhinandan was awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind. 
&nbsp;

PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq's revelation that India would have attacked Pakistan at "night by 9 pm" if Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman wasn't released has created ripples in the Imran Khan-led PTI government.

PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq's revelation that India would have attacked Pakistan at "night by 9 pm" if Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman wasn't released has created ripples in the Imran Khan-led PTI government. Also Read | Pakistan was scared of Indian attack: Truth behind Abhinandan's release revealed Imran's association with Sadiq goes back to his college years as both Pakistan politicians studied in Lahore's elite Aitchison college. Sadiq is known to be one of Sharif's most trusted aides. The PML(N) leader was elected Speaker of the National Assembly in 2013. Sadiq had defeated Imran Khan in the National Assembly from Lahore during the elections. However, Imran cried foul after the results were declared and the court ordered re-election as Sadiq again secured victory. The PML(N) leader during his speech in the Pakistan Parliament said during a meeting with foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in which PPP and PML-N leaders were present the Pakistan foreign minister had asked IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan to be set free. "I remember Shah Mahmood Qureshi was in the meeting in which Imran Khan had refused to attend and Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room, his legs were shaking and he was perspiring," Sadiq said in Parliament, adding,"Foreign minister Qureshi said for God's sake let Abhinandan go, India`s about to attack Pakistan at 9pm". Wing Commander Varthaman's MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft was shot down by Pakistan's F-16 fighter during a dog fight on February 27 last year. Pakistan later returned Abhinandan to India who came back from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019. Wg Commander Abhinandan was awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind.

'Bajwa's legs were shaking': Who is PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq?

India armed forces were ready to wipe out Pakistan's forward bridges had Islamabad's 'military adventure' been successful in response to the Balakot aerial strikes, said Former Air Force chief BS Dhanoa.

He also added that "our military posture was very offensive". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-was-scared-of-indian-attack-truth-behind-abhinandans-release-revealed-338667">Also read | Former Indian Air Force Chief BS Dhanoa. (Image source: Wikipedia)</a>

His remarks came after Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said in the National Assembly that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had in an important meeting pointed out that if Pakistan did not release Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan "that night by 9 pm".

In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that he had warned Pakistan of consequences if it did not return Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman.

The result of the counter-terrorism operation in Balakot has been a topic of political debate in India.

"Abhinandan's father and I served together. So, when Abhinandan ejected I told him that we could not get Ahuja back, but will definitely get Abhinandan back. During the Kargil war, my flight commander Ahuja was captured and shot dead. That was playing on my mind. I told him that there are two parts. The main pressure on Pakistan was diplomatic and political. But there was also a military posture," Dhanoa told ANI.

"The way he (Pakistan MP) is saying that 'Pair 'kaanp rahe the' (legs were trembling). It is because the military posture was very offensive... God forbid if there are military misadventure on 27th and hit some of our military installations, we were in a position to wipe out their forward brigades. They know what our capability is," he said.

Wing Commander Varthaman had shot down a Pakistani aircraft F-16, which had transgressed into the Indian airspace during a dog fight between Indian and Pakistani air force on February 27, 2019, and in the process, his plane crossed over to Pakistani side and was shot down. Abhinandan was returned to India from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019.

Dhanoa, who was the Indian Air Force chief when the aerial strikes took place in Pakistan, said that Indian military could not strike to secure Abhinandan's release but it could do it to put pressure on the Pakistan military.

"But that decision is political. Whether we need to go to war. Suppose strike on 27th had been successful, then to what extent do we respond. Do we respond with a full-scale war or only hitting their forward brigades opposite us? This is a political decision," he said.

Abhinandan has been awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind for his exemplary bravery.

(With inputs from ANI)

India armed forces were ready to wipe out Pakistan's forward bridges had Islamabad's 'military adventure' been successful in response to the Balakot aerial strikes, said Former Air Force chief BS Dhanoa.

India armed forces were ready to wipe out Pakistan's forward bridges had Islamabad's 'military adventure' been successful in response to the Balakot aerial strikes, said Former Air Force chief BS Dhanoa. He also added that "our military posture was very offensive". Also read | Former Indian Air Force Chief BS Dhanoa. (Image source: Wikipedia) His remarks came after Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said in the National Assembly that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had in an important meeting pointed out that if Pakistan did not release Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan "that night by 9 pm". In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that he had warned Pakistan of consequences if it did not return Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman. The result of the counter-terrorism operation in Balakot has been a topic of political debate in India. "Abhinandan's father and I served together. So, when Abhinandan ejected I told him that we could not get Ahuja back, but will definitely get Abhinandan back. During the Kargil war, my flight commander Ahuja was captured and shot dead. That was playing on my mind. I told him that there are two parts. The main pressure on Pakistan was diplomatic and political. But there was also a military posture," Dhanoa told ANI. "The way he (Pakistan MP) is saying that 'Pair 'kaanp rahe the' (legs were trembling). It is because the military posture was very offensive... God forbid if there are military misadventure on 27th and hit some of our military installations, we were in a position to wipe out their forward brigades. They know what our capability is," he said. Wing Commander Varthaman had shot down a Pakistani aircraft F-16, which had transgressed into the Indian airspace during a dog fight between Indian and Pakistani air force on February 27, 2019, and in the process, his plane crossed over to Pakistani side and was shot down. Abhinandan was returned to India from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019. Dhanoa, who was the Indian Air Force chief when the aerial strikes took place in Pakistan, said that Indian military could not strike to secure Abhinandan's release but it could do it to put pressure on the Pakistan military. "But that decision is political. Whether we need to go to war. Suppose strike on 27th had been successful, then to what extent do we respond. Do we respond with a full-scale war or only hitting their forward brigades opposite us? This is a political decision," he said. Abhinandan has been awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day by President Ram Nath Kovind for his exemplary bravery. (With inputs from ANI)

Was ready to wipe out Pakistan's forward brigades after Balakot: Former IAF chief BS Dhanoa

The Pak Army Chief has returned empty-handed from Riyadh. Forget receiving a medal, Gen. Bajwa couldn't even secure a meeting with the Saudi Crown Prince.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia's 'royal snub' to Pakistan

Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has returned empty-handed from Saudi Arabia.

The Pakistan general had flown to Riyadh on Sunday along with&nbsp;ISI chief General Faiz Hameed. They wanted to smoothen the straining Pak-Saudi ties and secure Pakistan's place in the Islamic brotherhood club.

However, the duo got a royal snub and a load of embarrassment.

Their visit to Saudi Arabia was an epic failure. According to reports, the Pakistan Army chief couldn't even secure a meeting with the Saudi crown prince Mohamed bin Salman who did not give him an audience.

General Bajwa was to be given a medal&nbsp;but the Saudis changed their mind and all he got was a meeting with the crown prince's younger brother Sheikh Khalid bin Salman, the deputy defence minister of Saudi Arabia and Major General Fayyad Ali Ruwaili, the Kingdom's chief of staff.

General Bajwa's interaction was limited to the Saudi defence establishment. The crown prince of Saudi Arabia is famous for meeting his guests in his own flamboyant ways, last year he had awarded a grand reception to General Bajwa in Riyadh.

However, Imran Khan's obsession with Kashmir has ruined his ties with the crown prince. His government has always relied on the Kashmir narrative to stay in power. Now, the same narrative has cast a shadow on Pakistan's foreign policy. It is hurting its business dealings with most Islamic countries and Saudi Arabia is not just any Islamic country - it is the de facto leader of the Islamic world.

Saudi Arabia is also the religious and financial master of Pakistan. Islamabad owes billions of dollars in loans to Riyadh. However, the Pakistan foreign minister was not quite in touch with reality as he let his emotions take control and crossed the red line. His statement has become one of the flashpoints of the Saudi-Pakistan breakup.

On Tuesday, there were reports that Pakistan's foreign minister was set to be sacked. In his frustration, Qureshi slapped the prime minister's principal secretary. Now with General Bajwa returning empty-handed from Saudi Arabia, Qureshi's position has become untenable.

Pakistan's rift with Saudi Arabia is a major setback to them and part of the credit goes to India. It is the first time in the history of India-Arab ties that they are backing India on Kashmir against Pakistan despite Pakistan's best efforts, the Organisation of Islamic Countries(OIC) has refused to censure India.

In fact, they have honoured the Indian prime minister with their highest civilian medal&nbsp;and also boosted trade ties with India which is a significant shift.

A major geopolitical realignment is taking place in West Asia. The most telling example was seen last week with the normalisation of the relations between UAE and Israel. India is a close strategic partner of both countries. India first dehyphenated Israel and Palestine, now the UAE has followed suit.

Imran Khan's frustration is evident. India is also a close trade and energy partner of Saudi Arabia and home to over than 180 million Muslims which is the second-highest population in the world.

Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has returned empty-handed from Saudi Arabia. The Pakistan general had flown to Riyadh on Sunday along with ISI chief General Faiz Hameed.

Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has returned empty-handed from Saudi Arabia. The Pakistan general had flown to Riyadh on Sunday along with ISI chief General Faiz Hameed. They wanted to smoothen the straining Pak-Saudi ties and secure Pakistan's place in the Islamic brotherhood club. However, the duo got a royal snub and a load of embarrassment. Their visit to Saudi Arabia was an epic failure. According to reports, the Pakistan Army chief couldn't even secure a meeting with the Saudi crown prince Mohamed bin Salman who did not give him an audience. General Bajwa was to be given a medal but the Saudis changed their mind and all he got was a meeting with the crown prince's younger brother Sheikh Khalid bin Salman, the deputy defence minister of Saudi Arabia and Major General Fayyad Ali Ruwaili, the Kingdom's chief of staff. General Bajwa's interaction was limited to the Saudi defence establishment. The crown prince of Saudi Arabia is famous for meeting his guests in his own flamboyant ways, last year he had awarded a grand reception to General Bajwa in Riyadh. However, Imran Khan's obsession with Kashmir has ruined his ties with the crown prince. His government has always relied on the Kashmir narrative to stay in power. Now, the same narrative has cast a shadow on Pakistan's foreign policy. It is hurting its business dealings with most Islamic countries and Saudi Arabia is not just any Islamic country - it is the de facto leader of the Islamic world. Saudi Arabia is also the religious and financial master of Pakistan. Islamabad owes billions of dollars in loans to Riyadh. However, the Pakistan foreign minister was not quite in touch with reality as he let his emotions take control and crossed the red line. His statement has become one of the flashpoints of the Saudi-Pakistan breakup. On Tuesday, there were reports that Pakistan's foreign minister was set to be sacked. In his frustration, Qureshi slapped the prime minister's principal secretary. Now with General Bajwa returning empty-handed from Saudi Arabia, Qureshi's position has become untenable. Pakistan's rift with Saudi Arabia is a major setback to them and part of the credit goes to India. It is the first time in the history of India-Arab ties that they are backing India on Kashmir against Pakistan despite Pakistan's best efforts, the Organisation of Islamic Countries(OIC) has refused to censure India. In fact, they have honoured the Indian prime minister with their highest civilian medal and also boosted trade ties with India which is a significant shift. A major geopolitical realignment is taking place in West Asia. The most telling example was seen last week with the normalisation of the relations between UAE and Israel. India is a close strategic partner of both countries. India first dehyphenated Israel and Palestine, now the UAE has followed suit. Imran Khan's frustration is evident. India is also a close trade and energy partner of Saudi Arabia and home to over than 180 million Muslims which is the second-highest population in the world.

Saudi Arabia snubs General Bajwa, no meeting with crown prince Mohammed bin Salman

Imran Khan's Kashmir obsession has triggered a diplomatic spat between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Now, Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will visit Riyadh to save Pakistan's lifeline.

Gravitas: Pakistan Army Chief heads to Riyadh to fix strained ties

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

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

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

Pakistan denies rift with Saudi Arabia

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-to-present-amendment-bill-for-bajwas-extension-as-army-chief-271607">General Qamar Javed Bajwa</a>, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for&nbsp;approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

If the Parliament passes the proposed amendments, PM Imran Khan&nbsp;would have power to extend the tenure of all three defence chiefs for up to three years and at his advice, the president will issue a formal notification.

The cabinet meeting approved the proposed three-year extension in the tenure of the army chief, indicating that General Bajwa would continue to serve as the COAS till 2023.

The apex court last month in a detailed verdict had issued direction to the government to remove all ambiguities and frame a law to the pave the way for giving extension to the Army chief. The Cabinet also decided to introduce an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter.

According to an amendment, the maximum age limit for an army chief will be 64 years and this will be applied in case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khan-led-government-challenges-supreme-courts-decision-on-bajwas-tenure-270355">extension in his term</a>, but the regular age limit of COAS will be 60 years.

Now it would be the prime minister's prerogative whether to give an extension to the army chief in the future. The Army Act's amendments will also be applicable to the chairman of joint chiefs and the other two services chiefs.

A government committee comprising Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Amir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan and Azam Swati has also been formed to hold talks with the opposition parties regarding the amendment bill.

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The court, after grilling the attorney general for three days over the matter, had decided that General Bajwa would remain COAS during the six-month period in which the parliament would draft laws regarding the extension and appointment of an army chief.

"We would like to emphasise that this crucial matter of the tenure of COAS and its extension, which has a somewhat chequered history, is before the Parliament, to fix for all times to come," wrote Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, a member of the three-judge bench which heard the case, in the court's 43-page judgment.

"It is now for the people of Pakistan and their chosen representatives in the parliament to come up with a law that will provide certainty and predictability to the post of COAS, remembering that in strengthening institutions, nations prosper," the court had noted.

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act. If the Parliament passes the proposed amendments, PM Imran Khan would have power to extend the tenure of all three defence chiefs for up to three years and at his advice, the president will issue a formal notification. The cabinet meeting approved the proposed three-year extension in the tenure of the army chief, indicating that General Bajwa would continue to serve as the COAS till 2023. The apex court last month in a detailed verdict had issued direction to the government to remove all ambiguities and frame a law to the pave the way for giving extension to the Army chief. The Cabinet also decided to introduce an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. According to an amendment, the maximum age limit for an army chief will be 64 years and this will be applied in case of extension in his term, but the regular age limit of COAS will be 60 years. Now it would be the prime minister's prerogative whether to give an extension to the army chief in the future. The Army Act's amendments will also be applicable to the chairman of joint chiefs and the other two services chiefs. A government committee comprising Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Amir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan and Azam Swati has also been formed to hold talks with the opposition parties regarding the amendment bill. × The court, after grilling the attorney general for three days over the matter, had decided that General Bajwa would remain COAS during the six-month period in which the parliament would draft laws regarding the extension and appointment of an army chief. "We would like to emphasise that this crucial matter of the tenure of COAS and its extension, which has a somewhat chequered history, is before the Parliament, to fix for all times to come," wrote Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, a member of the three-judge bench which heard the case, in the court's 43-page judgment. "It is now for the people of Pakistan and their chosen representatives in the parliament to come up with a law that will provide certainty and predictability to the post of COAS, remembering that in strengthening institutions, nations prosper," the court had noted.

Pak PM Imran Khan seeks powers to extend General Bajwa's tenure

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

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

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

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

Pakistan: SC puts hold on Bajwa's tenure extension. Watch video to know more.

Pakistan: SC puts hold on Bajwa's tenure extension

Pakistani Supreme Court has suspended the notification giving an extension to Army chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/soft-coup-in-pakistan-general-bajwa-to-be-part-of-xi-imran-meet-254385">General Qamar Javed Bajwa</a>.

The court issued a notice to all parties including the Pakistan defence ministry and General Bajwa.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-qamar-javed-bajwas-term-as-army-chief-extended-for-another-3-years-244163">General Bajwa </a>was&nbsp;due to retire on November 29, however, he&nbsp;was given an extension for a period of three year by Pakistan PM Imran Khan on August 19.

Pakistan's Supreme Court said that the cabinet has 25 members but only 11 members voted in favour of the resolution, therefore the extension was given without the consent of the majority of the cabinet.

The court further said that only the president of Pakistan can approve the&nbsp;extension of tenure for the Army chief.

The hearing in the case has been adjourned till Wednesday.

Bajwa has held the post since November 29, 2016, and was appointed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Prior to his appointment, Pakistan's Army chief had served as the Inspector General of the Training and Evaluation at the Army General headquarter. He had also served as field commander of X Corps from August 2013 to September 2015.

In 2007, General Bajwa had served as a Brigadier in the United Nations mission in Congo and as a brigade commander.

Pakistani Supreme Court has suspended the notification giving an extension to Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The court issued a notice to all parties including the Pakistan defence ministry and General Bajwa.

Pakistani Supreme Court has suspended the notification giving an extension to Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The court issued a notice to all parties including the Pakistan defence ministry and General Bajwa. General Bajwa was due to retire on November 29, however, he was given an extension for a period of three year by Pakistan PM Imran Khan on August 19. Pakistan's Supreme Court said that the cabinet has 25 members but only 11 members voted in favour of the resolution, therefore the extension was given without the consent of the majority of the cabinet. The court further said that only the president of Pakistan can approve the extension of tenure for the Army chief. The hearing in the case has been adjourned till Wednesday. Bajwa has held the post since November 29, 2016, and was appointed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Prior to his appointment, Pakistan's Army chief had served as the Inspector General of the Training and Evaluation at the Army General headquarter. He had also served as field commander of X Corps from August 2013 to September 2015. In 2007, General Bajwa had served as a Brigadier in the United Nations mission in Congo and as a brigade commander.

Pakistan Supreme Court puts Army chief Bajwa's tenure extension on hold

Pak PM Imran Khan gave 3-year extension to Army chief Bajwa. Watch video to know more.

Pak PM Imran Khan gave 3-year extension to Army chief Bajwa

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is in China on a 3-day visit to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

During his visit, the Pakistan PM will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is accompanying Khan on the visit and will be meeting the Chinese military leadership.

Bajwa will also join Imran Khan for his meetings with the political leaders.&nbsp;

Now, General Bajwa's presence during political engagements has become all-pervasive.

Some experts call it a soft coup by the Pakistani army.

Once again, every important decision in Pakistan has the stamp of the armed forces.

Bajwa had accompanied Imran Khan during his maiden visit to the United States. He was there during his UNGA speech where Imran spoke about India and Kashmir but failed to garner any support against India.

General Bajwa is also a member of all-powerful Pakistan's development council.

Recently, Bajwa met business leaders in Pakistan to address economic issues facing Pakistan's economy — something, usually, a civilian government would do.

General Bajwa's presence alongside Imran Khan, during his meetings with foreign dignitaries at international forums,&nbsp;is a clear indication of the fact that the Pak army wants a decisive say in the country's foreign policy.

Pakistan is going through an unusual period in which the democratically elected government and the army appear to be working in sync.&nbsp;

But General Bajwa's meeting with Pakistan's business leaders and his presence in the all-important meeting in China indicates that the Pakistani army has lost all faith in Khan after his failure at the UNGA.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is in China on a 3-day visit to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is in China on a 3-day visit to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During his visit, the Pakistan PM will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang. Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is accompanying Khan on the visit and will be meeting the Chinese military leadership. Bajwa will also join Imran Khan for his meetings with the political leaders. Now, General Bajwa's presence during political engagements has become all-pervasive. Some experts call it a soft coup by the Pakistani army. Once again, every important decision in Pakistan has the stamp of the armed forces. Bajwa had accompanied Imran Khan during his maiden visit to the United States. He was there during his UNGA speech where Imran spoke about India and Kashmir but failed to garner any support against India. General Bajwa is also a member of all-powerful Pakistan's development council. Recently, Bajwa met business leaders in Pakistan to address economic issues facing Pakistan's economy — something, usually, a civilian government would do. General Bajwa's presence alongside Imran Khan, during his meetings with foreign dignitaries at international forums, is a clear indication of the fact that the Pak army wants a decisive say in the country's foreign policy. Pakistan is going through an unusual period in which the democratically elected government and the army appear to be working in sync. But General Bajwa's meeting with Pakistan's business leaders and his presence in the all-important meeting in China indicates that the Pakistani army has lost all faith in Khan after his failure at the UNGA.

Soft coup in Pakistan?: General Bajwa to be part of Xi-Imran meet

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

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

General Bajwa met the business tycoons and senior government officials dealing with the economy at a seminar titled "Interplay of Economy and Security" organised at the Army Auditorium in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan's economy in crisis: Pak business leaders pins hopes on army generals

Pakistan's Business Community Presses The Panic Button, Seek Army Chief Gen. Bajwa's Help Pakistan's economy has been going through a serious crisis for some time. Now, in a desperate attempt, the country's business community have sought the help for Army Chief Gen. Bajwa. The sequence of events indicate the weakening of Imran Khan's grip on power. @Palkisu summarises

Gravitas: Pakistan's Economy In Crisis: Businessmen Ask Gen Bajwa For Help

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan.

Since 1947, Pakistan has spent the bulk of its existence under army rule.

Despite that dodgy tradition, when the business community goes to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa&nbsp;for ideas instead of the elected prime minister, it gives rise to some serious questions.

Is Pakistan a country with an army? Or is Pakistan an army with a country?

On WION Edit, we will specifically explore these questions in the context of the economy. When Imran Khan came to power, he came on two tall promises.

1, Rooting out corruption 
2, Ushering in an era of economic growth

It is safe to say that the Pakistan Prime Minister has failed on both counts in a spectacular fashion. But still, can General Bajwa revive the economy?

Here, we have to understand the political dynamics in Pakistan.

Pakistan's army runs the country's economy. The Fauji Foundation is the second-largest conglomerate in Pakistan. It controls everything from the food sector to energy. And guess who runs it - the army

Decades of army rule have eroded democratic institutions in Islamabad. Besides General Bajwa always held more power than Imran khan.

Imran Khan calls himself the ambassador of Kashmir. In truth, he is just a spokesperson of the Pakistani army.

So would things change now, given that General Bajwa looks set to take economic decisions?

The straight-forward answer is 'no', not a chance.

Pakistan's economic troubles run deep and are structural. Right now, Pakistan is running on external money and debt is soaring.

And Imran Khan has no clue, no say, and general Bajwa will continue to protect the army's interests. Already, he has linked the economy with national security.

Unless Pakistan gets a semblance of democracy, the welfare measures will not reach the common man. With a more prominent role for General Bajwa, Pakistan's sham-democracy is unlikely to deliver growth.

Unless public investment and private investment picks up, unless wealth creation is prioritised, Pakistan's economic problems will continue.

And when you are an army with a country, the country will be forced to serve the needs of the army and not vice versa. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan.

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan. Since 1947, Pakistan has spent the bulk of its existence under army rule. Despite that dodgy tradition, when the business community goes to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa for ideas instead of the elected prime minister, it gives rise to some serious questions. Is Pakistan a country with an army? Or is Pakistan an army with a country? On WION Edit, we will specifically explore these questions in the context of the economy. When Imran Khan came to power, he came on two tall promises. 1, Rooting out corruption 2, Ushering in an era of economic growth It is safe to say that the Pakistan Prime Minister has failed on both counts in a spectacular fashion. But still, can General Bajwa revive the economy? Here, we have to understand the political dynamics in Pakistan. Pakistan's army runs the country's economy. The Fauji Foundation is the second-largest conglomerate in Pakistan. It controls everything from the food sector to energy. And guess who runs it - the army Decades of army rule have eroded democratic institutions in Islamabad. Besides General Bajwa always held more power than Imran khan. Imran Khan calls himself the ambassador of Kashmir. In truth, he is just a spokesperson of the Pakistani army. So would things change now, given that General Bajwa looks set to take economic decisions? The straight-forward answer is 'no', not a chance. Pakistan's economic troubles run deep and are structural. Right now, Pakistan is running on external money and debt is soaring. And Imran Khan has no clue, no say, and general Bajwa will continue to protect the army's interests. Already, he has linked the economy with national security. Unless Pakistan gets a semblance of democracy, the welfare measures will not reach the common man. With a more prominent role for General Bajwa, Pakistan's sham-democracy is unlikely to deliver growth. Unless public investment and private investment picks up, unless wealth creation is prioritised, Pakistan's economic problems will continue. And when you are an army with a country, the country will be forced to serve the needs of the army and not vice versa. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: General in his labyrinth

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

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

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

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

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa Friday blamed "fiscal mismanagement" for the country's economic crisis, days after he was made a member of a new panel set up to stabilise the economy.

Addressing a seminar on "Pakistan's Economy: Challenges and Way forward" at the National Defence University (NDU), he said the armed forces played their part by voluntarily foregoing annual increase in defence budget and it was not the only step they were taking the improvement of the economy.

Pakistan's Parliament on Thursday unanimously approved the Rs 1,150 billion defence budget for the next fiscal (2019-20).&nbsp;

In a move that would further expand the Pakistan Army's influence, General Bajwa was made a member of the newly-formed National Development Council headed by Prime Minister Imran Khan last week.

Pakistan's military, in a rare move, early this month decided to voluntarily cut the defence budget for the next fiscal year and assured the nation that there would be no impact to its "response potential" due to the voluntary cut in the budget.

"We are going through difficult economic situation due to fiscal mismanagement. We have been shying of taking difficult decisions," the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) said at the seminar organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies, Research and Analysis (ISSRA).&nbsp;

Speaking about the current economic situation, he said that it was due to failure to take difficult decisions.

"We understand that the government has gone for difficult but quintessential decisions for long term benefits and what we are doing is playing our part. We all need to fulfil our responsibilities in this regard so that these difficult initiatives succeed," he said.

Cash-strapped Pakistan is to launch an austerity drive from next month to solve the financial woes.&nbsp;

Gen Bajwa said that there were examples in recent past when other countries also faced similar challenges and they came out successfully after taking difficult decisions.&nbsp;

He said Pakistan would also wade through these challenges.

"In difficult times no individual alone can succeed unless nation comes together unitedly. It is time to be a nation," he added.

Gen Bajwa said that the sovereignty of a country was linked to its economic progress, as there was undeniable linkage between security and economy as both directly complement each other.

He also highlighted Pakistan's efforts for restoring regional peace as it would lead to better trade connectivity.

Speaking about the regional connectivity Gen Bajwa said that "countries cannot develop individually, it is the region which develops".

"For our region to develop we need to have greater regional connectivity amongst all neighbours," he said.

Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Abdul Hafeez Shaikh counted perpetual security threats, inconsistent economic policies, poor economic discipline and lack of will to take difficult decisions in the past as major contributors for the present economic situation that the government was facing today.&nbsp;

Pakistan in 2018 was the 20th biggest military spender in the world with an expenditure of US $11.4 billion, a report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute said in April.

Prime Minister Khan's government has negotiated a US $6 billion bailout package from the International Monetary Fund to overcome the financial woes facing the country.

The government's budget focused on austerity, growth and tax collection.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa Friday blamed "fiscal mismanagement" for the country's economic crisis, days after he was made a member of a new panel set up to stabilise the economy.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa Friday blamed "fiscal mismanagement" for the country's economic crisis, days after he was made a member of a new panel set up to stabilise the economy. Addressing a seminar on "Pakistan's Economy: Challenges and Way forward" at the National Defence University (NDU), he said the armed forces played their part by voluntarily foregoing annual increase in defence budget and it was not the only step they were taking the improvement of the economy. Pakistan's Parliament on Thursday unanimously approved the Rs 1,150 billion defence budget for the next fiscal (2019-20). In a move that would further expand the Pakistan Army's influence, General Bajwa was made a member of the newly-formed National Development Council headed by Prime Minister Imran Khan last week. Pakistan's military, in a rare move, early this month decided to voluntarily cut the defence budget for the next fiscal year and assured the nation that there would be no impact to its "response potential" due to the voluntary cut in the budget. "We are going through difficult economic situation due to fiscal mismanagement. We have been shying of taking difficult decisions," the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) said at the seminar organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies, Research and Analysis (ISSRA). Speaking about the current economic situation, he said that it was due to failure to take difficult decisions. "We understand that the government has gone for difficult but quintessential decisions for long term benefits and what we are doing is playing our part. We all need to fulfil our responsibilities in this regard so that these difficult initiatives succeed," he said. Cash-strapped Pakistan is to launch an austerity drive from next month to solve the financial woes. Gen Bajwa said that there were examples in recent past when other countries also faced similar challenges and they came out successfully after taking difficult decisions. He said Pakistan would also wade through these challenges. "In difficult times no individual alone can succeed unless nation comes together unitedly. It is time to be a nation," he added. Gen Bajwa said that the sovereignty of a country was linked to its economic progress, as there was undeniable linkage between security and economy as both directly complement each other. He also highlighted Pakistan's efforts for restoring regional peace as it would lead to better trade connectivity. Speaking about the regional connectivity Gen Bajwa said that "countries cannot develop individually, it is the region which develops". "For our region to develop we need to have greater regional connectivity amongst all neighbours," he said. Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Abdul Hafeez Shaikh counted perpetual security threats, inconsistent economic policies, poor economic discipline and lack of will to take difficult decisions in the past as major contributors for the present economic situation that the government was facing today. Pakistan in 2018 was the 20th biggest military spender in the world with an expenditure of US $11.4 billion, a report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute said in April. Prime Minister Khan's government has negotiated a US $6 billion bailout package from the International Monetary Fund to overcome the financial woes facing the country. The government's budget focused on austerity, growth and tax collection.

Pakistan is facing economic woes due to 'fiscal mismanagement': General Bajwa

Pakistan Army Chief General Bajwa visits troops at LoC

'Identity crisis is defined as the failure to achieve ego identity. This stage of psychological development is called identity cohesion versus role confusion. Successful resolution depends on one's progress through previous developmental stages, centering on issues like trust.'

When German psychologist Erik Erikson coined the term and defined the concept, he was referring to adolescents. At 71, the state of Pakistan seems to be behaving like one.&nbsp;

Two statements made over the last two days betray Pakistan's identity crisis. One was by their Army Chief General Qamar Jawed Bajwa. He said he supports peace initiatives vis a vis India and that they're not a sign of weakness. The second was Prime Minister Imran Khan's unsolicited advise to India on how to treat minorities and the fanciful assertion that he will show how to right such wrongs.&nbsp;

The little said about the first statement the better. Pakistan's record on fomenting terror and launching unprovoked border attacks is no secret. Neither is the fact that hurting India is their raison d'etre. General Bajwa has reiterated the fact that his army exists as a force relative to India, not an absolute entity. India defines their identity.&nbsp;

As for Mr Khan, his statement has riled up many in India, and rightly so. He's got a good dose of sentiment. Let's introduce him to some facts now.&nbsp;

In 1947, religious minorities constituted over 20 per cent of Pakistan's population. That number has now fallen to 3 per cent.&nbsp;

A report by the US State Department claims that religious minorities are harassed in Pakistan. The report condemns state-sanctioned discrimination against the Ahmadis and other minorities.&nbsp;

In 2017, at least 231 people belonging to minority communities were killed in several incidents of violence in Pakistan.

Now Prime Minister Imran Khan says he'll be their knight in shining armour. That's all very well, except that nobody believes him. He's been in office for a little more than a hundred days. The biggest headline to come out of Pakistan during this period, apart from the collapsing economy, was the story of a Christian woman and the persecution she faces.&nbsp;

Asia Bibi is a Pakistani Christian who was accused of blasphemy. Asia Bibi was on death row for eight years. She was cleared of all charges on 31st October 2018. Almost two months later, she's still in jail. That's where she'll celebrate Christmas.&nbsp;

Imran Khan's govt hasn't found the courage to release her yet because it is under pressure from hardliners. Her acquittal had led to violent demonstrations that paralysed a large part of Pakistan. Angry mobs of protesters took to the streets calling for her beheading. And what did the government do? Imran Khan who wants to show the world how to treat minorities has kept Asia Bibi in jail. &nbsp;

The second case in point is that of Atif Mian, an internationally-renowned economist. Atif Mian was Imran Khan's pick for Pakistan's Economic Advisory Council. But he was soon fired. Reason? He's an Ahmadi - a religious minority.&nbsp;

The Ahmadis are an Islamic group that Pakistan doesn't recognise as Muslims. The second amendment to the constitution of Pakistan prohibits Ahmadis from identifying themselves as Muslims. When you apply for a passport in Pakistan, you must declare that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was an "impostor prophet" and that his followers are non-Muslims.&nbsp;

In 1985, the government of Pakistan divided the country's electorate into Muslim and non-Muslim. Voters were required to declare whether they accepted Muhammed as the final Prophet. Since then, most Ahmedis have not participated in the electoral process. &nbsp;

Then there are the Pashtuns who constitute about 15 per cent of Pakistan's population but remain marginalised and persecuted. Earlier this year, tens of thousands of them poured out on the streets of Peshawar to demand their rights. Led by a young activist Manzoor Pashteen, they rallied against forced disappearances and atrocities on tribal groups.&nbsp;

Pakistan's cupboard is stuffed with such skeletons, which is why political pundits wonder why Imran Khan brought this upon himself. Why wade into a controversy unbidden? Why draw the world's attention to Pakistan's poor record on minorities with a boast that failed to impress anyone?

Perhaps just one of the many political hit wickets of Mr Khan. Or the reflection of the identity crisis of his country's rulers. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

'Identity crisis is defined as the failure to achieve ego identity. This stage of psychological development is called identity cohesion versus role confusion. Successful resolution depends on one's progress through previous developmental stages, centering on issues like trust.

'Identity crisis is defined as the failure to achieve ego identity. This stage of psychological development is called identity cohesion versus role confusion. Successful resolution depends on one's progress through previous developmental stages, centering on issues like trust.' When German psychologist Erik Erikson coined the term and defined the concept, he was referring to adolescents. At 71, the state of Pakistan seems to be behaving like one. Two statements made over the last two days betray Pakistan's identity crisis. One was by their Army Chief General Qamar Jawed Bajwa. He said he supports peace initiatives vis a vis India and that they're not a sign of weakness. The second was Prime Minister Imran Khan's unsolicited advise to India on how to treat minorities and the fanciful assertion that he will show how to right such wrongs. The little said about the first statement the better. Pakistan's record on fomenting terror and launching unprovoked border attacks is no secret. Neither is the fact that hurting India is their raison d'etre. General Bajwa has reiterated the fact that his army exists as a force relative to India, not an absolute entity. India defines their identity. As for Mr Khan, his statement has riled up many in India, and rightly so. He's got a good dose of sentiment. Let's introduce him to some facts now. In 1947, religious minorities constituted over 20 per cent of Pakistan's population. That number has now fallen to 3 per cent. A report by the US State Department claims that religious minorities are harassed in Pakistan. The report condemns state-sanctioned discrimination against the Ahmadis and other minorities. In 2017, at least 231 people belonging to minority communities were killed in several incidents of violence in Pakistan. Now Prime Minister Imran Khan says he'll be their knight in shining armour. That's all very well, except that nobody believes him. He's been in office for a little more than a hundred days. The biggest headline to come out of Pakistan during this period, apart from the collapsing economy, was the story of a Christian woman and the persecution she faces. Asia Bibi is a Pakistani Christian who was accused of blasphemy. Asia Bibi was on death row for eight years. She was cleared of all charges on 31st October 2018. Almost two months later, she's still in jail. That's where she'll celebrate Christmas. Imran Khan's govt hasn't found the courage to release her yet because it is under pressure from hardliners. Her acquittal had led to violent demonstrations that paralysed a large part of Pakistan. Angry mobs of protesters took to the streets calling for her beheading. And what did the government do? Imran Khan who wants to show the world how to treat minorities has kept Asia Bibi in jail. The second case in point is that of Atif Mian, an internationally-renowned economist. Atif Mian was Imran Khan's pick for Pakistan's Economic Advisory Council. But he was soon fired. Reason? He's an Ahmadi - a religious minority. The Ahmadis are an Islamic group that Pakistan doesn't recognise as Muslims. The second amendment to the constitution of Pakistan prohibits Ahmadis from identifying themselves as Muslims. When you apply for a passport in Pakistan, you must declare that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was an "impostor prophet" and that his followers are non-Muslims. In 1985, the government of Pakistan divided the country's electorate into Muslim and non-Muslim. Voters were required to declare whether they accepted Muhammed as the final Prophet. Since then, most Ahmedis have not participated in the electoral process. Then there are the Pashtuns who constitute about 15 per cent of Pakistan's population but remain marginalised and persecuted. Earlier this year, tens of thousands of them poured out on the streets of Peshawar to demand their rights. Led by a young activist Manzoor Pashteen, they rallied against forced disappearances and atrocities on tribal groups. Pakistan's cupboard is stuffed with such skeletons, which is why political pundits wonder why Imran Khan brought this upon himself. Why wade into a controversy unbidden? Why draw the world's attention to Pakistan's poor record on minorities with a boast that failed to impress anyone? Perhaps just one of the many political hit wickets of Mr Khan. Or the reflection of the identity crisis of his country's rulers. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Living in a glass house, suffering from an identity crisis

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has backed Prime Minister Imran Khan's peace initiatives, saying the new government has extended a hand of peace and friendship towards India with utmost sincerity but it should not be taken as Islamabad's weakness.

Addressing the passing out parade of Midshipmen and Short Service Course at the Naval Academy in Karachi on Saturday, Bajwa said that Pakistan was "a peace loving country and believes in peace".

Lauding the efforts of Prime Minister Khan's government to achieve peace between Pakistan and India, the army chief said peace benefits everyone and it is time to fight disease, poverty and illiteracy instead of fighting against each other.

"Our new government has extended a hand of peace and friendship towards India with utmost sincerity but it should not be taken as our weakness," Bajwa said.

The powerful army, which has ruled Pakistan for more than half of its 71 years, has always wielded considerable power in the matters of foreign policy.

The Indo-Pak ties strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based terrorists in 2016 and India's surgical strikes inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The ties further nose-dived in 2017 with no bilateral talks talking place between them.

Amidst deadly skirmishes along the Line of Control and diplomatic bickering for better part of 2018, the consensus on both sides to open the Kartarpur corridor for Indian Sikh pilgrims has created a ray of hope for improvement in Indo-Pak ties.

"Wars bring death, destruction and misery for the people. Ultimately all issues are resolved on the table through negotiations that is why we are trying very hard to help bring a lasting peace in Afghanistan by supporting Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace plan," Bajwa said.

He also warned that Pakistan is yet to get out from terrorism or sabotage phase of an unannounced war against it.

"Like the terrorists before; the protagonists of the new threats are at times, our own people. Mostly misguided by ambitions, blinded by hate, ethnicity or religion or simply overawed by social media onslaught, some of our own boys and girls readily fall victim to such dangerous or hostile narratives," Bajwa said.

Referring to hybrid warfare, the army chief said information and modern technology has changed the nature of warfare now being waged and has tilted the balance in favour of those nations that have embraced the change readily.

"But frankly speaking, even that will not be sufficient as the ever-increasing threat of hybrid war, to which we are subjected to, will need a totally new approach and change of traditional mindset," he said.

Advising future military leaders to prepare themselves for the threats they will face, Bajwa said that they should be able to "gauge the enemies latest moves and be ready to respond, even when a surgical strike exists only in cognitive domain or media or even when the attack comes, not in the battlefield but in cyber space, or against country's ideological frontiers."

"The response to such onslaughts or threats cannot always be kinetic in nature," he said, adding that a superior narrative needs to be propagated to deal with attacks in the cognitive domain.&nbsp;

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has backed Prime Minister Imran Khan's peace initiatives, saying the new government has extended a hand of peace and friendship towards India with utmost sincerity but it should not be taken as Islamabad's weakness.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has backed Prime Minister Imran Khan's peace initiatives, saying the new government has extended a hand of peace and friendship towards India with utmost sincerity but it should not be taken as Islamabad's weakness. Addressing the passing out parade of Midshipmen and Short Service Course at the Naval Academy in Karachi on Saturday, Bajwa said that Pakistan was "a peace loving country and believes in peace". Lauding the efforts of Prime Minister Khan's government to achieve peace between Pakistan and India, the army chief said peace benefits everyone and it is time to fight disease, poverty and illiteracy instead of fighting against each other. "Our new government has extended a hand of peace and friendship towards India with utmost sincerity but it should not be taken as our weakness," Bajwa said. The powerful army, which has ruled Pakistan for more than half of its 71 years, has always wielded considerable power in the matters of foreign policy. The Indo-Pak ties strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based terrorists in 2016 and India's surgical strikes inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The ties further nose-dived in 2017 with no bilateral talks talking place between them. Amidst deadly skirmishes along the Line of Control and diplomatic bickering for better part of 2018, the consensus on both sides to open the Kartarpur corridor for Indian Sikh pilgrims has created a ray of hope for improvement in Indo-Pak ties. "Wars bring death, destruction and misery for the people. Ultimately all issues are resolved on the table through negotiations that is why we are trying very hard to help bring a lasting peace in Afghanistan by supporting Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace plan," Bajwa said. He also warned that Pakistan is yet to get out from terrorism or sabotage phase of an unannounced war against it. "Like the terrorists before; the protagonists of the new threats are at times, our own people. Mostly misguided by ambitions, blinded by hate, ethnicity or religion or simply overawed by social media onslaught, some of our own boys and girls readily fall victim to such dangerous or hostile narratives," Bajwa said. Referring to hybrid warfare, the army chief said information and modern technology has changed the nature of warfare now being waged and has tilted the balance in favour of those nations that have embraced the change readily. "But frankly speaking, even that will not be sufficient as the ever-increasing threat of hybrid war, to which we are subjected to, will need a totally new approach and change of traditional mindset," he said. Advising future military leaders to prepare themselves for the threats they will face, Bajwa said that they should be able to "gauge the enemies latest moves and be ready to respond, even when a surgical strike exists only in cognitive domain or media or even when the attack comes, not in the battlefield but in cyber space, or against country's ideological frontiers." "The response to such onslaughts or threats cannot always be kinetic in nature," he said, adding that a superior narrative needs to be propagated to deal with attacks in the cognitive domain.

Effort to achieve peace with India isn't sign of weakness: Pak army chief

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Wednesday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss regional security and peace process in the war-torn country, days after his crucial meeting with Taliban representatives in the UAE.

The talks between the US and Taliban representatives were held in Abu Dhabi this week. Officials from Pakistan, the UAE and Saudi Arabia also participated in the talks.

Khalilzad reportedly held two rounds of negotiations with Taliban leaders in Qatar before the new round of talks.

Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet that "regional security and Afghan peace process were discussed" in the meeting.

"Visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's efforts for Afghanistan peace process. COAS (Chief of Army Staff) reiterated that peace in Afghanistan is important for Pakistan and assured continuous efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region," Ghafoor said.

It was Khalilzad's third trip to Pakistan in recent months.

According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan helped in arranging the direct talks between the US and Taliban, creating a ray of hope for ending more than 17-year-old Afghan conflict.

It was the second time Pakistan arranged direct talks between the US and Taliban representatives after a similar initiative fell apart in 2015 at the hill resort of Murree, near Islamabad.

The US administration has appreciated Pakistan's role in arranging the meeting with Taliban leaders.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, after taking office in August, made it clear that Pakistan wanted to establish peaceful ties with all its neighbours.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump wrote a letter to Prime Minister Khan, asking for help to arrange talks with the rebels.

Trump, however, earlier this year accused Pakistan of doing nothing despite take billions of dollars from the US. Washington also suspended millions of dollars in military aid to Islamabad.

In one of America's longest war, the US has spent over US $1 trillion in Afghanistan since the coalition forces ousted the Taliban in 2001.&nbsp;

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Wednesday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss regional security and peace process in the war-torn country, days after his crucial meeting with Taliban representatives in the UAE.

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Wednesday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss regional security and peace process in the war-torn country, days after his crucial meeting with Taliban representatives in the UAE. The talks between the US and Taliban representatives were held in Abu Dhabi this week. Officials from Pakistan, the UAE and Saudi Arabia also participated in the talks. Khalilzad reportedly held two rounds of negotiations with Taliban leaders in Qatar before the new round of talks. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet that "regional security and Afghan peace process were discussed" in the meeting. "Visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's efforts for Afghanistan peace process. COAS (Chief of Army Staff) reiterated that peace in Afghanistan is important for Pakistan and assured continuous efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region," Ghafoor said. It was Khalilzad's third trip to Pakistan in recent months. According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan helped in arranging the direct talks between the US and Taliban, creating a ray of hope for ending more than 17-year-old Afghan conflict. It was the second time Pakistan arranged direct talks between the US and Taliban representatives after a similar initiative fell apart in 2015 at the hill resort of Murree, near Islamabad. The US administration has appreciated Pakistan's role in arranging the meeting with Taliban leaders. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, after taking office in August, made it clear that Pakistan wanted to establish peaceful ties with all its neighbours. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump wrote a letter to Prime Minister Khan, asking for help to arrange talks with the rebels. Trump, however, earlier this year accused Pakistan of doing nothing despite take billions of dollars from the US. Washington also suspended millions of dollars in military aid to Islamabad. In one of America's longest war, the US has spent over US $1 trillion in Afghanistan since the coalition forces ousted the Taliban in 2001.

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan meets Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa Sunday confirmed the death sentence of 15 "hardcore terrorists", who were involved in killing civilians and abetting 2016 Christian Colony suicide attacks in Peshawar.

General Bajwa "confirmed the death sentence awarded to 15 hardcore terrorists, who were involved in heinous offences related to terrorism," said a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the army.&nbsp;

The terrorists were convicted for attacking the armed forces/law enforcement agencies, abetting suicide bombers in an attack on Christian Colony near Peshawar, destruction of educational institutions and killing of innocent civilians, it said.

In September 2016, four suicide bombers attacked the Christian Colony in Peshawar. Security forces promptly responded and killed all the attackers. The Christian colony is situated outside the military cantonment.

The Jamaat-ur Ahrar, a Taliban faction, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Ibrar, a member of a banned organisation, "abetted suicidal bombers in attacking Christian Colony near Peshawar by planning the said attack and providing weapons/suicidal jackets/transportation to suicide bombers," the statement said.

The convict confessed his offences and he was awarded death sentence.

The convicts were tried by special military courts and confessed to their crimes before the judicial magistrate during their respective trials, ISPR said.&nbsp;

It said the terror activities by the convicts had resulted into the death of 34 people, including from the armed forces.&nbsp;

Arms and explosives were also recovered from their possession, the statement said.

Apart from the death sentence, 20 convicts were awarded imprisonment.&nbsp;

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa Sunday confirmed the death sentence of 15 "hardcore terrorists", who were involved in killing civilians and abetting 2016 Christian Colony suicide attacks in Peshawar.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa Sunday confirmed the death sentence of 15 "hardcore terrorists", who were involved in killing civilians and abetting 2016 Christian Colony suicide attacks in Peshawar. General Bajwa "confirmed the death sentence awarded to 15 hardcore terrorists, who were involved in heinous offences related to terrorism," said a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the army. The terrorists were convicted for attacking the armed forces/law enforcement agencies, abetting suicide bombers in an attack on Christian Colony near Peshawar, destruction of educational institutions and killing of innocent civilians, it said. In September 2016, four suicide bombers attacked the Christian Colony in Peshawar. Security forces promptly responded and killed all the attackers. The Christian colony is situated outside the military cantonment. The Jamaat-ur Ahrar, a Taliban faction, claimed responsibility for the attack. Ibrar, a member of a banned organisation, "abetted suicidal bombers in attacking Christian Colony near Peshawar by planning the said attack and providing weapons/suicidal jackets/transportation to suicide bombers," the statement said. The convict confessed his offences and he was awarded death sentence. The convicts were tried by special military courts and confessed to their crimes before the judicial magistrate during their respective trials, ISPR said. It said the terror activities by the convicts had resulted into the death of 34 people, including from the armed forces. Arms and explosives were also recovered from their possession, the statement said. Apart from the death sentence, 20 convicts were awarded imprisonment.

Pakistan Army chief confirms death sentence of 15 'hardcore terrorists'

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday attacked Pakistan army Chief Qamar Bajwa asking, "which army teaches to violate ceasefire and kill jawans on the other side?"

"Which army teaches to send people to attack Pathankot and Amritsar? This is cowardness," he stated.

The Chief Minister further added, warning General Bajwa, that he "will not be allowed to enter and vitiate the atmosphere."

"I am warning you (Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Bajwa), we are also Punjabis, you will not be allowed to enter here and vitiate the atmosphere," Singh reacted.&nbsp;

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I would like to ask Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Bajwa something, as a soldier. Which Army teaches to violate ceasefire and kill jawans on the other side? Which Army teaches to send ppl to attack Pathankot and Amritsar? This is cowardness: Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh <a href="https://t.co/mwtDvrRVqm">pic.twitter.com/mwtDvrRVqm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1066959777157255168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Singh, on Sunday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/citing-terror-attacks-in-state-punjab-cm-declines-invitation-to-kartarpur-corridor-ceremony-179299">declined Pak Foreign Minister’s invitation</a> to attend the foundation stone laying for Kartarpur Corridor in Pakistan which will take place on November 28, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, Singh has cited continued terrorist attacks in Punjab and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces as his reason to skip the ceremony.&nbsp;

Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj on Saturday announced that she will not travel to Pakistan to attend the event due to prior commitments, including campaigning for the Telangana assembly elections.

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I am warning you( Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Bajwa), we are also Punjabis, you will not be allowed to enter here and vitiate the atmosphere: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh <a href="https://t.co/zPzWBSeb35">pic.twitter.com/zPzWBSeb35</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1066960751099809798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-welcomes-pak-foreign-ministers-invitation-deputes-two-ministers-179224">India will be sending two ministers</a> to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor.

The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan. The foundation stone laying ceremony was performed in the Mann village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab.&nbsp;

Vice President Naidu was accompanied by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday attacked Pakistan army Chief Qamar Bajwa asking, "which army teaches to violate ceasefire and kill jawans on the other side?

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday attacked Pakistan army Chief Qamar Bajwa asking, "which army teaches to violate ceasefire and kill jawans on the other side?" "Which army teaches to send people to attack Pathankot and Amritsar? This is cowardness," he stated. The Chief Minister further added, warning General Bajwa, that he "will not be allowed to enter and vitiate the atmosphere." "I am warning you (Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Bajwa), we are also Punjabis, you will not be allowed to enter here and vitiate the atmosphere," Singh reacted. I would like to ask Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Bajwa something, as a soldier. Which Army teaches to violate ceasefire and kill jawans on the other side? Which Army teaches to send ppl to attack Pathankot and Amritsar? This is cowardness: Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh pic.twitter.com/mwtDvrRVqm — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2018 × Singh, on Sunday, declined Pak Foreign Minister’s invitation to attend the foundation stone laying for Kartarpur Corridor in Pakistan which will take place on November 28, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, Singh has cited continued terrorist attacks in Punjab and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces as his reason to skip the ceremony. Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj on Saturday announced that she will not travel to Pakistan to attend the event due to prior commitments, including campaigning for the Telangana assembly elections. I am warning you( Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Bajwa), we are also Punjabis, you will not be allowed to enter here and vitiate the atmosphere: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh pic.twitter.com/zPzWBSeb35 — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2018 × India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. Meanwhile, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor. The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan. The foundation stone laying ceremony was performed in the Mann village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Vice President Naidu was accompanied by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

Punjab CM lashes out at Pak army chief: 'Which army teaches to violate ceasefire and kill jawans?'

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday said his troops are combat-hardened and ready to defend the country as he asked India to place its "stock in peace and progress" through dialogue.

General Bajwa, who visited the Line of Control (LoC) and interacted with troops for the second time within a month, said that "lately there has been an&nbsp;increase in Indian ceasefire violations and rhetoric of provocative statements by their military leadership", according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the army.

"We are a professional and combat-hardened Army ready to defend our motherland. It would be better if they realise this and place their stock in peace &amp; progress through dialogue," General Bajwa said.

He was also briefed about the situation along LoC, the ceasefire violations and response by Pakistan Army.

On October 25, General Bajwa visited Sarpir and Pandu Sectors at the Line of Control where he interacted with the Pakistani troops.

The ties between India and Pakistan remains strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based terror groups in 2016 and India's surgical strikes inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

After assuming power in August, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting a meeting between the two countries' foreign ministers on the margins of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in September.

India accepted the proposal but, within hours of its acceptance, terrorists killed three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting New Delhi to cancel the foreign ministers' meeting on the sidelines of the UNGA.

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday said his troops are combat-hardened and ready to defend the country as he asked India to place its "stock in peace and progress" through dialogue.

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday said his troops are combat-hardened and ready to defend the country as he asked India to place its "stock in peace and progress" through dialogue. General Bajwa, who visited the Line of Control (LoC) and interacted with troops for the second time within a month, said that "lately there has been an increase in Indian ceasefire violations and rhetoric of provocative statements by their military leadership", according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the army. "We are a professional and combat-hardened Army ready to defend our motherland. It would be better if they realise this and place their stock in peace & progress through dialogue," General Bajwa said. He was also briefed about the situation along LoC, the ceasefire violations and response by Pakistan Army. On October 25, General Bajwa visited Sarpir and Pandu Sectors at the Line of Control where he interacted with the Pakistani troops. The ties between India and Pakistan remains strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based terror groups in 2016 and India's surgical strikes inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. After assuming power in August, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting a meeting between the two countries' foreign ministers on the margins of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in September. India accepted the proposal but, within hours of its acceptance, terrorists killed three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting New Delhi to cancel the foreign ministers' meeting on the sidelines of the UNGA.

Pak Army Chief asks India to place its 'stock in peace and progress' through dialogue

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London.

"Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation.

Being strong trade partners, India, time and again, voiced unequivocal support to the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to emerge as a peaceful nation by eradicating terrorism in the country.

During Afghanistan President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reiterated India's support to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace and reconciliation process that would enable the nation to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic country and emerge as economically vibrant.

Pakistan and Afghanistan relations, on the other hand, have been tumultuous, with Afghanistan alleging Pakistan army's aid to the Taliban in the deadly August 13 Ghazni siege, which left 100 dead and 150 others injured.General Bajwa had denied Afghanistan's claims after President Ghani questioned the army chief as to why Taliban militants, who were accused of carrying out the attacks, were being treated in Pakistan's hospitals.

This came in the wake of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government's vision to establish better bilateral relations with its neighbours, including Afghanistan.

Efforts have been made by both Pakistan and Afghanistan to work together to counter terrorism in the region previously, with the inaugural session of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) being held on July 22 this year.

In-depth discussions regarding methods of counter-terrorism were discussed in the summit amongst other security issues, according to Geo TV.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also visited Kabul on September 15 and met the Afghan President to discuss peace and stability in the region by jointly working together to combat terrorism.India reiterated its support for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council Open Debate by launching a veiled attack on Pakistan by saying that terror offences in Afghanistan are perpetrated by those harboured in safe havens in the country's 'neighbourhood'.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. "Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. "Tensed relations" between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and India's role in the talks were discussed between the two during General Bajwa's official three-day visit to the United Kingdom, according to The Nation. Being strong trade partners, India, time and again, voiced unequivocal support to the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to emerge as a peaceful nation by eradicating terrorism in the country. During Afghanistan President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reiterated India's support to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace and reconciliation process that would enable the nation to continue as a united, peaceful, inclusive and democratic country and emerge as economically vibrant. Pakistan and Afghanistan relations, on the other hand, have been tumultuous, with Afghanistan alleging Pakistan army's aid to the Taliban in the deadly August 13 Ghazni siege, which left 100 dead and 150 others injured.General Bajwa had denied Afghanistan's claims after President Ghani questioned the army chief as to why Taliban militants, who were accused of carrying out the attacks, were being treated in Pakistan's hospitals. This came in the wake of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government's vision to establish better bilateral relations with its neighbours, including Afghanistan. Efforts have been made by both Pakistan and Afghanistan to work together to counter terrorism in the region previously, with the inaugural session of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) being held on July 22 this year. In-depth discussions regarding methods of counter-terrorism were discussed in the summit amongst other security issues, according to Geo TV. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi also visited Kabul on September 15 and met the Afghan President to discuss peace and stability in the region by jointly working together to combat terrorism.India reiterated its support for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council Open Debate by launching a veiled attack on Pakistan by saying that terror offences in Afghanistan are perpetrated by those harboured in safe havens in the country's 'neighbourhood'.

In London, General Bajwa discusses India's role in Pak-Afghan tensions

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The death toll was expected to rise this weekend in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael as hundreds remained unaccounted for along the Florida Panhandle where decimated communities remained cutoff and in the dark.

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Around 51&nbsp;people have been tested positive for Zika virus in Rajasthan's Jaipur district, news agency ANI reported on Saturday.&nbsp; According to reports, eighteen more people in Jaipur have been tested positive for Zika virus, taking the total number of cases to 50.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-12-killed-in-bomb-attack-on-afghan-election-rally-officials-171291">At least 12 killed in bomb attack on Afghan election rally: Officials</a>

A motorcyle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 12 people, officials said, in the latest violence to strike a political gathering.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-london-general-bajwa-discusses-indias-role-in-pak-afghan-tensions-171312">In London, General Bajwa discusses India's role in Pak-Afghan tensions</a>

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-mla-joins-ruling-bjp-in-chhattisgarh-171288">Ahead of elections in Chhattisgarh, Congress MLA joins ruling BJP</a>

In a major setback to the opposition Congress in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, its state working president and MLA Ramdayal Uike Saturday joined the ruling BJP.

Death toll from Michael seen rising as Florida towns remain cut off The death toll was expected to rise this weekend in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael as hundreds remained unaccounted for along the Florida Panhandle where decimated communities remained cutoff and in the dark.

Death toll from Michael seen rising as Florida towns remain cut off The death toll was expected to rise this weekend in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael as hundreds remained unaccounted for along the Florida Panhandle where decimated communities remained cutoff and in the dark. Zika virus scare: 51 people tested positive in Rajasthan Around 51 people have been tested positive for Zika virus in Rajasthan's Jaipur district, news agency ANI reported on Saturday. According to reports, eighteen more people in Jaipur have been tested positive for Zika virus, taking the total number of cases to 50. At least 12 killed in bomb attack on Afghan election rally: Officials A motorcyle carrying explosives blew up among supporters of an Afghan election candidate on Saturday, killing at least 12 people, officials said, in the latest violence to strike a political gathering. In London, General Bajwa discusses India's role in Pak-Afghan tensions Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met UK's Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Gareth Baley in London. Ahead of elections in Chhattisgarh, Congress MLA joins ruling BJP In a major setback to the opposition Congress in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, its state working president and MLA Ramdayal Uike Saturday joined the ruling BJP.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US secretary of state <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/stop-blaming-pakistan-for-failures-in-afghanistan-gen-bajwa-to-us-33273">Mike Pompeo called up Pakistan</a> Army chief General Qamar Bajwa and asked him to take action against terrorists "without any distinction".

The US has been constantly pushing the <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-can-achieve-peace-and-prosperity-through-military-talks-with-india-general-bajwa-134868">Pakistan government to go after terrorist </a>organizations which it says are on the loose especially the Haqqani Network.

Addressing a press conference state department spokesperson Heather Nauert said: "US-Pakistani bilateral relations, the need for political reconciliation in Afghanistan, and the importance of targeting all militant and terrorist groups in South Asia without distinction."

General Bajwa had earlier denied the existence of terrorist sanctuaries in Pakistan. In fact, the general claimed Pakistan was being attacked from terrorist hideouts on Afghan soil. &nbsp;

The Pakistan general speaking at a conference in Munich in February had said terrorists had established sanctuaries on the Afghan soil along the border with Pakistan.

US-Pakistan relations have hit rock bottom ever since the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on the government to fight terrorists in the country with President Trump in a series of tweets hitting out at the Pak government for not doing enough to bring terrorism to an end.&nbsp;

Trump later in a tweet categorically said Pakistan was a "safe haven" for terrorists as the US stopped economic aid to Pakistan linking any relief to its progress in bringing terrorism to an end. The Trump administration named the Haqqani Network as a major terrorist organization and told the Pak government and the Army to dismantle it.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CEDWLycw3O8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

US-Pakistan relations have hit rock bottom ever since the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on the government to fight terrorists

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo called up Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Bajwa and asked him to take action against terrorists "without any distinction". The US has been constantly pushing the Pakistan government to go after terrorist organizations which it says are on the loose especially the Haqqani Network. Addressing a press conference state department spokesperson Heather Nauert said: "US-Pakistani bilateral relations, the need for political reconciliation in Afghanistan, and the importance of targeting all militant and terrorist groups in South Asia without distinction." General Bajwa had earlier denied the existence of terrorist sanctuaries in Pakistan. In fact, the general claimed Pakistan was being attacked from terrorist hideouts on Afghan soil. The Pakistan general speaking at a conference in Munich in February had said terrorists had established sanctuaries on the Afghan soil along the border with Pakistan. US-Pakistan relations have hit rock bottom ever since the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on the government to fight terrorists in the country with President Trump in a series of tweets hitting out at the Pak government for not doing enough to bring terrorism to an end. Trump later in a tweet categorically said Pakistan was a "safe haven" for terrorists as the US stopped economic aid to Pakistan linking any relief to its progress in bringing terrorism to an end. The Trump administration named the Haqqani Network as a major terrorist organization and told the Pak government and the Army to dismantle it.

Take action against terrorists without distinction: Pompeo to Pak Army chief General Bajwa

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