PM Modi left for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Thursday morning.

The Indian prime minister's aircraft will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-not-to-fly-over-pak-airspace-for-sco-summit-226462">avoiding the Pakistan airspace</a>. The plane will fly over Oman, Iran and several central Asian countries to reach the Kyrgyz capital. &nbsp;

The was announcement made on Wednesday even<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-requests-pakistan-to-let-pm-modis-flight-pass-through-its-airspace-225685"> as Pakistan said it will "specially"</a> open its airspace for the flight of Prime Minister Modi to Bishkek to attend the SCO summit.

If PM Modi had flown over Pakistan it would have taken three-and-a-half hours to reach Bishkek and now it will take about seven hours for the journey, officials said.

The decision also came over a week after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi wrote separate letters to their Indian counterparts, pushing for restarting bilateral talks.

India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together.&nbsp;

Pakistan PM Imran Khan will also be attending the summit, however, PM Modi and Pak PM Imran Khan are not slated to meet at Bishkek.

Last month, Pakistan had given special permission to the then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly through Pakistani airspace while travelling to Bishkek to attend a meeting of SCO Foreign Ministers.

Pakistan fully closed its airspace on February 26 after the Indian Air Force struck a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist training camp in Balakot.&nbsp;

Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11.

On its part, the IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

PM Modi left for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Thursday morning. The Indian prime minister's aircraft will be avoiding the Pakistan airspace.

PM Modi left for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Thursday morning. The Indian prime minister's aircraft will be avoiding the Pakistan airspace. The plane will fly over Oman, Iran and several central Asian countries to reach the Kyrgyz capital. The was announcement made on Wednesday even as Pakistan said it will "specially" open its airspace for the flight of Prime Minister Modi to Bishkek to attend the SCO summit. If PM Modi had flown over Pakistan it would have taken three-and-a-half hours to reach Bishkek and now it will take about seven hours for the journey, officials said. The decision also came over a week after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi wrote separate letters to their Indian counterparts, pushing for restarting bilateral talks. India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. Pakistan PM Imran Khan will also be attending the summit, however, PM Modi and Pak PM Imran Khan are not slated to meet at Bishkek. Last month, Pakistan had given special permission to the then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly through Pakistani airspace while travelling to Bishkek to attend a meeting of SCO Foreign Ministers. Pakistan fully closed its airspace on February 26 after the Indian Air Force struck a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist training camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11. On its part, the IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed.

PM Modi leaves for SCO summit in Kyrgyzstan; avoids Pakistan airspace

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nawaz-sharif-not-allowed-to-meet-family-even-on-eid-225529">Nawaz Sharif</a> on Thursday accused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-vows-to-go-after-thieves-responsible-for-pakistans-economic-woes-226438">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> of indulging in corruption and targetting his opponents for political benefits, claiming that the cricketer-turned-politician will be "thrown out of the stadium by spectators."

"Imran Khan is a player who will soon be thrown out of the stadium by spectators. His Bani Gala residence is in the midst of corruption. He should be ashamed of himself," Geo News quoted Sharif as saying while speaking to reporters at Kot Lakhpat prison.

The former Pakistan prime minister called Khan "incompetent" and claimed that his "downfall is imminent."

"We (PML-N) came into power through the public's mandate and they (PTI) do not have that. I am neither a seer nor a fortune teller. But I know that Imran Khan's downfall is imminent. Imran Khan is incompetent and to hide his incompetence, he is blaming the previous government. His incompetence has brought the country to the edge of destruction," Sharif said.

He alleged that the ruling government was putting people behind the bars without any proof.

Chiding the Khan-led dispensation over the IMF deal, Sharif said, "We had said goodbye to the IMF and now they are bowing down in front of them. PML-N had left full coffers, built motorways and took steps to control inflation. Imran Khan had said he would commit suicide if he ever went to IMF. But he did not do so and the nation is suffering."

"During our tenure, the dollar was in control and our exports were increasing. If Imran Khan was not the selected prime minister then the country would not be in this condition. He has disheartened the nation in just 10 months," he added.

His comments came after former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari and Punjab Opposition leader Hamza Shahbaz were arrested in cases related to money laundering and corruption earlier this week.

In a late night address to the nation, Khan on Tuesday had said that he will form a high-powered commission to investigate graft and the rise of Pakistan's debts in the last one decade, at a time when the country is grappling to overcome a severe financial crisis.

The cricketer-turned-politician had urged his countrymen to declare their assets and pay off taxes by June 30.&nbsp;

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif on Thursday accused Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan of indulging in corruption and targetting his opponents for political benefits, claiming that the cricketer-turned-politician will be "thrown out of the stadium by spectators.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif on Thursday accused Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan of indulging in corruption and targetting his opponents for political benefits, claiming that the cricketer-turned-politician will be "thrown out of the stadium by spectators." "Imran Khan is a player who will soon be thrown out of the stadium by spectators. His Bani Gala residence is in the midst of corruption. He should be ashamed of himself," Geo News quoted Sharif as saying while speaking to reporters at Kot Lakhpat prison. The former Pakistan prime minister called Khan "incompetent" and claimed that his "downfall is imminent." "We (PML-N) came into power through the public's mandate and they (PTI) do not have that. I am neither a seer nor a fortune teller. But I know that Imran Khan's downfall is imminent. Imran Khan is incompetent and to hide his incompetence, he is blaming the previous government. His incompetence has brought the country to the edge of destruction," Sharif said. He alleged that the ruling government was putting people behind the bars without any proof. Chiding the Khan-led dispensation over the IMF deal, Sharif said, "We had said goodbye to the IMF and now they are bowing down in front of them. PML-N had left full coffers, built motorways and took steps to control inflation. Imran Khan had said he would commit suicide if he ever went to IMF. But he did not do so and the nation is suffering." "During our tenure, the dollar was in control and our exports were increasing. If Imran Khan was not the selected prime minister then the country would not be in this condition. He has disheartened the nation in just 10 months," he added. His comments came after former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari and Punjab Opposition leader Hamza Shahbaz were arrested in cases related to money laundering and corruption earlier this week. In a late night address to the nation, Khan on Tuesday had said that he will form a high-powered commission to investigate graft and the rise of Pakistan's debts in the last one decade, at a time when the country is grappling to overcome a severe financial crisis. The cricketer-turned-politician had urged his countrymen to declare their assets and pay off taxes by June 30.

Imran Khan will be thrown out of stadium by spectators: Nawaz Sharif

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to pitch for strong and decisive action to deal with terrorism when in his address at SCO in Bishkek on June 14.Watch full video to know more.

PM Modi to pitch for anti-terror measures at SCO Summit

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/our-debt-has-gone-up-to-205-billion-in-the-last-decade-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-in-national-address-225840">huge debts incurred during the last 10 years</a>, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases.&nbsp;

In an unusual midnight speech after the first budget of his cash-strapped government was presented, Khan said that all economic problem was due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-asks-pakistanis-to-declare-their-undisclosed-assets-by-jun-30-225963">debt which increased to Rs 300 crore</a> from Rs 60 crore in 10 years.&nbsp;

His speech came on the day when Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in cases related to money laundering.&nbsp;

On Monday, former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/zardari-produced-before-court-anti-graft-body-seeks-physical-remand-226185">Asif Ali Zardari </a>was also arrested by the NAB in connection with a multi-million dollar money laundering case.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/nawaz-sharif-quizzed-in-jail-by-anti-graft-body-over-illegal-purchase-of-over-30-bulletproof-vehicles-222338">Nawaz Sharif </a>(from the PML-N party) is already in jail having been sentenced in another corruption case in 2018.

Khan announced that after putting to rest the initial focus of the government to stabilise the economy, his attention would be more targeted towards bringing the ones to task who had caused the country to fall into such dire straits.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION</a>

"Pakistan is stable now. That pressure [to stabilise the economy] has been relieved. Now I will go after them [the corrupt politicians]," declared the prime minister.

"I'm making a high-powered enquiry commission with a one-point agenda: how did they raise the debt to Rs 24,000 billion (240 crore) in 10 years?"

He said that the commission shall comprise the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), IB (Intelligence Bureau), ISI (the Inter-services Intelligence Directorate), FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan).&nbsp;

The Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz served in two successive terms since 2008 when Khan claimed debt increased.

Khan said that the commission will include representatives of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).

He said that those who were in helms of affairs during last 10 years will not be spared.

Watch: Is the IMF bailout a&nbsp;Lifeline for Pakistan's economy?

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"All those in power will be fully investigated by this commission which will prepare a report so that no one dares leave the country in tatters ever again," he said.&nbsp;

"Even if my life goes, I will not leave these thieves alone. I had prayed to God to give me one chance. I will not leave them."

He blamed the two previous governments for all ills including low growth, joblessness and devaluations.

Khan's government has been heavily criticised for the politically-motivated arrests in corruption cases, but he defended them.

Khan said he would not be "blackmailed" with protests.&nbsp;

Talking about the recent arrests of the bigwigs, Khan said, "I am grateful to Allah, the big figures who are now jailed, no one could have imagined [it could be done]."&nbsp;

"People are crying that Sharif and Zardari have been jailed [...] both of them used to call each other corrupt. Mian Nawaz Sharif jailed Zardari twice during his two tenures.

The prime minister said that they [Nawaz and Zardari] came to an agreement that each would rule for five years and "not say anything to each other".&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe huge debts incurred during the last 10 years, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe huge debts incurred during the last 10 years, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases. In an unusual midnight speech after the first budget of his cash-strapped government was presented, Khan said that all economic problem was due to debt which increased to Rs 300 crore from Rs 60 crore in 10 years. His speech came on the day when Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in cases related to money laundering. On Monday, former president Asif Ali Zardari was also arrested by the NAB in connection with a multi-million dollar money laundering case. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (from the PML-N party) is already in jail having been sentenced in another corruption case in 2018. Khan announced that after putting to rest the initial focus of the government to stabilise the economy, his attention would be more targeted towards bringing the ones to task who had caused the country to fall into such dire straits. Also read: Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION "Pakistan is stable now. That pressure [to stabilise the economy] has been relieved. Now I will go after them [the corrupt politicians]," declared the prime minister. "I'm making a high-powered enquiry commission with a one-point agenda: how did they raise the debt to Rs 24,000 billion (240 crore) in 10 years?" He said that the commission shall comprise the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), IB (Intelligence Bureau), ISI (the Inter-services Intelligence Directorate), FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan). The Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz served in two successive terms since 2008 when Khan claimed debt increased. Khan said that the commission will include representatives of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). He said that those who were in helms of affairs during last 10 years will not be spared. Watch: Is the IMF bailout a Lifeline for Pakistan's economy? × "All those in power will be fully investigated by this commission which will prepare a report so that no one dares leave the country in tatters ever again," he said. "Even if my life goes, I will not leave these thieves alone. I had prayed to God to give me one chance. I will not leave them." He blamed the two previous governments for all ills including low growth, joblessness and devaluations. Khan's government has been heavily criticised for the politically-motivated arrests in corruption cases, but he defended them. Khan said he would not be "blackmailed" with protests. Talking about the recent arrests of the bigwigs, Khan said, "I am grateful to Allah, the big figures who are now jailed, no one could have imagined [it could be done]." "People are crying that Sharif and Zardari have been jailed [...] both of them used to call each other corrupt. Mian Nawaz Sharif jailed Zardari twice during his two tenures. The prime minister said that they [Nawaz and Zardari] came to an agreement that each would rule for five years and "not say anything to each other".

Imran Khan vows to go after 'thieves' responsible for Pakistan's economic woes 

Pakistan's state minister for trade, finance and Commerce Hammad Azhar presented the country's first Federal Budget for the coming fiscal year. The estimated outlay for the 2019-20 fiscal year is six trillion Pakistani rupees.

The budget presentation comes a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan warned of legal action against those who do not declare their undisclosed assets by June 30, as the cash-strapped government ramps up efforts to fix the country's economy.

The austerity-oriented budget, approved by the cabinet, has proposed a 10 per cent cut in ministers' salaries and a subsidy worth 40 billion Pakistani rupees (US $2.6 million) on gas and electricity. However, the salaries of government employees and the pension of retired ones will get a 10 per cent hike.&nbsp;

The defence allocation was Pakistani rupees 1150 billion (US $7.5 million). It was claimed that defence allocation would remain the same as last year, however, the budget document indicates there has been a slight increase. Clarity on this is yet to be done by the Pakistani government. 
&nbsp; 
Azhar, while presenting the budget, said that Pakistan's trade deficit has been reduced by US $4 billion and now stands at US $22 billion.

In May, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government had announced its first tax amnesty scheme "Asset Declaration Scheme" for whitening of undisclosed expenditures, sales and assets, including foreign assets, at nominal tax rates.

Pakistan recently reached a preliminary agreement with the IMF for a $6 billion bailout.

Pakistan's state minister for trade, finance and Commerce Hammad Azhar presented the country's first Federal Budget for the coming fiscal year. The estimated outlay for the 2019-20 fiscal year is six trillion Pakistani rupees.

Pakistan's state minister for trade, finance and Commerce Hammad Azhar presented the country's first Federal Budget for the coming fiscal year. The estimated outlay for the 2019-20 fiscal year is six trillion Pakistani rupees. The budget presentation comes a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan warned of legal action against those who do not declare their undisclosed assets by June 30, as the cash-strapped government ramps up efforts to fix the country's economy. The austerity-oriented budget, approved by the cabinet, has proposed a 10 per cent cut in ministers' salaries and a subsidy worth 40 billion Pakistani rupees (US $2.6 million) on gas and electricity. However, the salaries of government employees and the pension of retired ones will get a 10 per cent hike. The defence allocation was Pakistani rupees 1150 billion (US $7.5 million). It was claimed that defence allocation would remain the same as last year, however, the budget document indicates there has been a slight increase. Clarity on this is yet to be done by the Pakistani government. Azhar, while presenting the budget, said that Pakistan's trade deficit has been reduced by US $4 billion and now stands at US $22 billion. In May, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government had announced its first tax amnesty scheme "Asset Declaration Scheme" for whitening of undisclosed expenditures, sales and assets, including foreign assets, at nominal tax rates. Pakistan recently reached a preliminary agreement with the IMF for a $6 billion bailout.

Pakistan commerce minister presents austerity oriented budget; 10% cut in ministers' salaries

Needing final approval for a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Pakistan is due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-present-austerity-centred-budget-following-imf-deal-226187">present an austerity budget on Tuesday</a> that is expected to set hugely ambitious tax revenue targets.

Prime Minister Imran Khan's government was forced to seek IMF help to stabilise an economy that has seen growth plunge, and while teetering on the verge of a balance of payments crisis. The rupee has lost about a third of its value this year and inflation has jumped to above 9%.

In April, the government secured a provisional agreement for Pakistan's 13th IMF bailout the late 1980s, but the $6 billion loans are contingent on measures being put in place to cut a budget deficit that the IMF forecast to hit 7% this year.

"We are faced with a fundamental question: how to broaden the tax net," Hafeez Shaikh, the country's de facto finance minister, told reporters late on Monday. "This is a big issue - if we cannot collect taxes, we cannot meet our expenses or settle our debts."

Media reports say Shaikh will set revenue targets for the financial year ending June 2020 that will mark an increase of 35%, when he delivers the government's first budget since it took power last August.

With Pakistan spending almost 70% of government revenues on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cut-in-annual-defence-budget-wont-impact-our-response-to-any-threat-pakistan-army-chief-224877">military</a> and interest payments, the room for major spending cuts is limited.

Handicapped by a weak tax system and Pakistan has historically struggled to collect revenues. Only 1.8 million people file income tax returns in a fast-growing nation with a population of 208 million people and a large informal economy.

The agricultural sector, dominated by politically connected big landowners, makes up around 20% of the economy but accounts for only 0.22% of direct tax revenues, according to the World Bank.

Shaikh is expected to announce cuts to various subsidies, most notably in the power sector.

The austerity measures that the government needs to take are expected to pile pressure on Khan, who came to power promising to lift millions out of poverty.

Pakistan has already cut its growth forecast to 3.3% for the year ending June, some way off the 6.2% forecast at the last budget, and below IMF's estimates around 2.9% this year. Pakistan sees growth at 4% next year.

Under the IMF's loan terms, the government is expected to let the rupee depreciate to help correct an unsustainable current account deficit and aim for a primary budget deficit, not including debt servicing costs, of 0.6 per cent of gross domestic product.

That would require cuts or extra revenues worth about $5 billion.

One area that is expected to be trimmed is the military's hefty budget, a rare move in a nation where the military wields huge political power. Khan said earlier this month that the military had volunteered to rein in spending, but it is unclear by how much the military budget will be cut.

Last year the government hiked the defence spending to 1.1 trillion rupees, allocating the military about 20% of the 5.6 trillion federal government budget. However, officials say the military has since overshot that figure, in part due to a flare up with India earlier this year.

Needing final approval for a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Pakistan is due to present an austerity budget on Tuesday that is expected to set hugely ambitious tax revenue targets.

Needing final approval for a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Pakistan is due to present an austerity budget on Tuesday that is expected to set hugely ambitious tax revenue targets. Prime Minister Imran Khan's government was forced to seek IMF help to stabilise an economy that has seen growth plunge, and while teetering on the verge of a balance of payments crisis. The rupee has lost about a third of its value this year and inflation has jumped to above 9%. In April, the government secured a provisional agreement for Pakistan's 13th IMF bailout the late 1980s, but the $6 billion loans are contingent on measures being put in place to cut a budget deficit that the IMF forecast to hit 7% this year. "We are faced with a fundamental question: how to broaden the tax net," Hafeez Shaikh, the country's de facto finance minister, told reporters late on Monday. "This is a big issue - if we cannot collect taxes, we cannot meet our expenses or settle our debts." Media reports say Shaikh will set revenue targets for the financial year ending June 2020 that will mark an increase of 35%, when he delivers the government's first budget since it took power last August. With Pakistan spending almost 70% of government revenues on the military and interest payments, the room for major spending cuts is limited. Handicapped by a weak tax system and Pakistan has historically struggled to collect revenues. Only 1.8 million people file income tax returns in a fast-growing nation with a population of 208 million people and a large informal economy. The agricultural sector, dominated by politically connected big landowners, makes up around 20% of the economy but accounts for only 0.22% of direct tax revenues, according to the World Bank. Shaikh is expected to announce cuts to various subsidies, most notably in the power sector. The austerity measures that the government needs to take are expected to pile pressure on Khan, who came to power promising to lift millions out of poverty. Pakistan has already cut its growth forecast to 3.3% for the year ending June, some way off the 6.2% forecast at the last budget, and below IMF's estimates around 2.9% this year. Pakistan sees growth at 4% next year. Under the IMF's loan terms, the government is expected to let the rupee depreciate to help correct an unsustainable current account deficit and aim for a primary budget deficit, not including debt servicing costs, of 0.6 per cent of gross domestic product. That would require cuts or extra revenues worth about $5 billion. One area that is expected to be trimmed is the military's hefty budget, a rare move in a nation where the military wields huge political power. Khan said earlier this month that the military had volunteered to rein in spending, but it is unclear by how much the military budget will be cut. Last year the government hiked the defence spending to 1.1 trillion rupees, allocating the military about 20% of the 5.6 trillion federal government budget. However, officials say the military has since overshot that figure, in part due to a flare up with India earlier this year.

Pakistan budget expected to set hefty tax revenue targets

Pakistan's economy grew at an average rate of 3.29 per cent in the fiscal year 2018-19 against an ambitious target of 6.2 per cent set in last year's budget, the Pakistan Economic Survey revealed on Monday.

The government unveiled the Economic Survey 2018-19 -- a report card displaying all economic indicators and how the Imran Khan government performed in its first year in power.&nbsp;

Advisor on Finance Abdul Hafeez Shaikh who unveiled the Economic Survey at a press conference ahead of the announcement of budget on June 11, said burgeoning debt has become a major burden for Pakistan's economy.

"The previous governments took Rs 31,000 billion loans in the last 10 years,"&nbsp;he said.

"Now we have to pay Rs 3,000 billion as interest on those loans."

He said the country had also accumulated around $100 billion external loans which included $9.2 billion in the tenure of the current government that came to power in August last year.

The advisor admitted that new loans were being used to pay off old debt.

He said the government this year spent Rs 2.3 trillion beyond its revenues by printing new currency which created inflation.

"If you spend trillions beyond your income, you will need to borrow, print money and increase prices. These all lead to increased inflation,"&nbsp;he said.

He said the national entities like Pakistan Steel Mills, Pakistan International Airlines, Pakistan Railways and others were running into losses and governed had to spend Rs 1,300 billion to keep them operational which put a lot of pressure on the economy.

Shaikh said that stability of economy was a first priority which would be done by generating more resources and austerity.

"I don't want to create panic by giving the correct picture of the economy,"&nbsp;he said, adding more details will be presented in the budget speech. 
The survey showed that the government missed targets set for the outgoing fiscal including 6.2 per cent growth, as the economy grew by merely 3.29 per cent.

The agriculture sector grew by 0.85 per cent against a target of 3.8 per cent. The industrial sector grew by 1.4 per cent against the target of 7.6 and the manufacturing sector was down by 0.3 per cent.

The large scale manufacturing showed a negative growth of 2 per cent against the target 8.1 while the service sector grew by 4.7 per cent against the target of 6.5.

The construction sector achieved a growth of 7.6 per cent against a target of 10 per cent.

The fiscal deficit was recorded at 5 per cent of the GDP compared to 4.3 in the corresponding period last fiscal.

However, Shaikh dismissed the dismal performance by saying the previous budget target was set by the government of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and they were unrealistic.&nbsp;

Advisor on Commerce Razzak Dawood, who was with Shaikh, said that due to some difficult decision made by the government the trade deficit during current fiscal was reduced from $73.6 billion to $32 billion.&nbsp;

He said that de-industrialisation had stopped due to policies of the government. He said the new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was also finalised with China which will help the industry.&nbsp;

Minister for Power Omar Ayub said that power generation improved due to better management. He said there was $80 billion investment opportunity in power generation and distribution sector.

Chairman Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) Shabbar Zaidi said that government was trying to increase the tax base. He urged that rich to pay taxes.&nbsp;

Pakistan's economy grew at an average rate of 3.29 per cent in the fiscal year 2018-19 against an ambitious target of 6.2 per cent set in last year's budget, the Pakistan Economic Survey revealed on Monday.

Pakistan's economy grew at an average rate of 3.29 per cent in the fiscal year 2018-19 against an ambitious target of 6.2 per cent set in last year's budget, the Pakistan Economic Survey revealed on Monday. The government unveiled the Economic Survey 2018-19 -- a report card displaying all economic indicators and how the Imran Khan government performed in its first year in power. Advisor on Finance Abdul Hafeez Shaikh who unveiled the Economic Survey at a press conference ahead of the announcement of budget on June 11, said burgeoning debt has become a major burden for Pakistan's economy. "The previous governments took Rs 31,000 billion loans in the last 10 years," he said. "Now we have to pay Rs 3,000 billion as interest on those loans." He said the country had also accumulated around $100 billion external loans which included $9.2 billion in the tenure of the current government that came to power in August last year. The advisor admitted that new loans were being used to pay off old debt. He said the government this year spent Rs 2.3 trillion beyond its revenues by printing new currency which created inflation. "If you spend trillions beyond your income, you will need to borrow, print money and increase prices. These all lead to increased inflation," he said. He said the national entities like Pakistan Steel Mills, Pakistan International Airlines, Pakistan Railways and others were running into losses and governed had to spend Rs 1,300 billion to keep them operational which put a lot of pressure on the economy. Shaikh said that stability of economy was a first priority which would be done by generating more resources and austerity. "I don't want to create panic by giving the correct picture of the economy," he said, adding more details will be presented in the budget speech. The survey showed that the government missed targets set for the outgoing fiscal including 6.2 per cent growth, as the economy grew by merely 3.29 per cent. The agriculture sector grew by 0.85 per cent against a target of 3.8 per cent. The industrial sector grew by 1.4 per cent against the target of 7.6 and the manufacturing sector was down by 0.3 per cent. The large scale manufacturing showed a negative growth of 2 per cent against the target 8.1 while the service sector grew by 4.7 per cent against the target of 6.5. The construction sector achieved a growth of 7.6 per cent against a target of 10 per cent. The fiscal deficit was recorded at 5 per cent of the GDP compared to 4.3 in the corresponding period last fiscal. However, Shaikh dismissed the dismal performance by saying the previous budget target was set by the government of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and they were unrealistic. Advisor on Commerce Razzak Dawood, who was with Shaikh, said that due to some difficult decision made by the government the trade deficit during current fiscal was reduced from $73.6 billion to $32 billion. He said that de-industrialisation had stopped due to policies of the government. He said the new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was also finalised with China which will help the industry. Minister for Power Omar Ayub said that power generation improved due to better management. He said there was $80 billion investment opportunity in power generation and distribution sector. Chairman Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) Shabbar Zaidi said that government was trying to increase the tax base. He urged that rich to pay taxes.

Pakistan's economic growth falls to 3.29 per cent in FY19

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-announces-militarys-voluntary-cut-in-defence-expenditure-amid-financial-crisis-224402">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> on Monday morning addressed the nation amid looming concerns of the national financial crisis. He started off by stating that Pakistan's debt, in the last decade, has gone up from 6,000 billion Pakistani Rupees to a whopping 30,000 billion Pakistani Rupees ($205 billion).&nbsp;

Khan added that taxes that are gathered annually, around 4,000 billion Pak Rupees, half of it goes to pay off these debts.

"The money left after that, Pakistan cannot survive with its expenses in that money," Khan stated.&nbsp;

He urged the people of Pakistan to declare undeclared assets. "If we won't pay taxes, we cannot help our nation go forward," Pak PM said adding that everyone must declare their undeclared assets by June 30.&nbsp;

"You won't get this chance beyond June 30," Khan added.

Watch: Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, says Pakistan wants talks with India to resolve all disputes

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Khan's address comes a day after he chaired a meeting on the upcoming budget on Sunday.

The ruling PTI government is set to present its first budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 in the National Assembly on June 11.

It will be presented by Khan's Advisor on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Hafeez Shaikh.

Last week,&nbsp;Khan announced that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country.

"Despite multiple security challenges. My government will spend this money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan," Khan posted on Twitter.

Last month, the Pakistan government had reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of $6 billion, according to Shaikh.

Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly $2-3 billion from institutions like the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday morning addressed the nation amid looming concerns of the national financial crisis. He started off by stating that Pakistan's debt, in the last decade, has gone up from 6,000 billion Pakistani Rupees to a whopping 30,000 billion Pakistani Rupees ($205 billion).

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday morning addressed the nation amid looming concerns of the national financial crisis. He started off by stating that Pakistan's debt, in the last decade, has gone up from 6,000 billion Pakistani Rupees to a whopping 30,000 billion Pakistani Rupees ($205 billion). Khan added that taxes that are gathered annually, around 4,000 billion Pak Rupees, half of it goes to pay off these debts. "The money left after that, Pakistan cannot survive with its expenses in that money," Khan stated. He urged the people of Pakistan to declare undeclared assets. "If we won't pay taxes, we cannot help our nation go forward," Pak PM said adding that everyone must declare their undeclared assets by June 30. "You won't get this chance beyond June 30," Khan added. Watch: Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, says Pakistan wants talks with India to resolve all disputes Khan's address comes a day after he chaired a meeting on the upcoming budget on Sunday. The ruling PTI government is set to present its first budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 in the National Assembly on June 11. It will be presented by Khan's Advisor on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Hafeez Shaikh. Last week, Khan announced that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country. "Despite multiple security challenges. My government will spend this money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan," Khan posted on Twitter. Last month, the Pakistan government had reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of $6 billion, according to Shaikh. Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly $2-3 billion from institutions like the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank.

Our debt has gone up to $205 billion in the last decade: Pakistan PM Imran Khan in national address

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-imran-khan-writes-to-pm-modi-seeks-to-maintain-peaceful-neighbourhood-225327">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> is set to address the nation on Monday morning, as the country continues to grapple with a severe financial crunch.

According to Pakistan&nbsp;media reports, Khan would touch upon the issue of the economic crisis of the country and the upcoming federal budget.

On Sunday, the cricketer-turned-politician had chaired a meeting on the upcoming budget.

The ruling PTI government is set to present its first budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 in the National Assembly on June 11.

It will be presented by Khan's Advisor on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Hafeez Shaikh.

Last month, the Pakistan government had reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of $6 billion, according to Shaikh.

He had disclosed that Pakistan, under the IMF programme, would receive assistance worth $6 billion over a period of three years.

Besides the assistance by IMF, Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly $2-3 billion from institutions like the Asian Development Bank and World Bank, the advisor had said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is set to address the nation on Monday morning, as the country continues to grapple with a severe financial crunch. According to Pakistan media reports, Khan would touch upon the issue of the economic crisis of the country and the upcoming federal budget.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is set to address the nation on Monday morning, as the country continues to grapple with a severe financial crunch. According to Pakistan media reports, Khan would touch upon the issue of the economic crisis of the country and the upcoming federal budget. On Sunday, the cricketer-turned-politician had chaired a meeting on the upcoming budget. The ruling PTI government is set to present its first budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 in the National Assembly on June 11. It will be presented by Khan's Advisor on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Hafeez Shaikh. Last month, the Pakistan government had reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of $6 billion, according to Shaikh. He had disclosed that Pakistan, under the IMF programme, would receive assistance worth $6 billion over a period of three years. Besides the assistance by IMF, Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly $2-3 billion from institutions like the Asian Development Bank and World Bank, the advisor had said.

Amid financial crisis in Pakistan, Imran Khan to address nation today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-stocks-crash-as-pm-imran-receives-insufficient-imf-bailout-218461">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> on Monday warned of legal action against those who do not declare their undisclosed assets by June 30, as the cash-strapped government ramps up efforts to fix the country's economy.

Addressing the nation ahead of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 to be announced Tuesday, Khan said, "We will need to change ourselves if we want to become a great country."&nbsp;

"I am appealing to all of you to take part in the Asset Declaration Scheme that we have brought because if we don't pay taxes, we will not be able to raise our country up," Khan said.

The premier said that people have until June 30 to declare their benami assets, benami bank accounts and money that was kept abroad.

Benami is a term used for a transaction, contract, or property that is made or held under a name that is fictitious or is that of a third party who holds as the ostensible owner for the principal or beneficial owner.

"After June 30, you will not get this opportunity," he said. "Our agencies have information about who has benami accounts and benami properties," the premier said.

"This was never available to us before therefore take advantage of this scheme. Give Pakistan the benefit.&nbsp;

Fix your children's future. Give us, the chance that we get this country to stand on its own two feet and take people out of poverty," he said.&nbsp;

"My Pakistanis, in the past ten years <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/our-debt-has-gone-up-to-205-billion-in-the-last-decade-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-in-national-address-225840">Pakistan's debt</a> went from Rs 6,000 billion to Rs 30,000 billion," he said.

Khan said that the damage that this had caused to the country was that the annual tax collected was approximately Rs 4,000 billion, half of which went towards repaying loans "they" had taken.

"This country cannot cover its expenses on the money that is left behind," he added.

Pakistan recently reached a preliminary agreement with the IMF for a $6 billion bailout.&nbsp;

"Pakistan is the country that unfortunately gives the least tax in the world but is among the few countries that give the most charity."

"This is the country that has [the] capability and if passion comes in, we can at the very least gather Rs10,000 billion every year," the premier said.

In May, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government had announced its first tax amnesty scheme "Asset Declaration Scheme"&nbsp;for whitening of undisclosed expenditures, sales and assets, including foreign assets, at nominal tax rates.

The scheme came into effect through a presidential ordinance, which will offer a period of 45 days to people for declaration of their undeclared assets, expenditures, and sales along with payment of taxes until June 30 this year.

The scheme, approved by the federal Cabinet during a meeting presided over by the premier, has five main pillars, scope, default surcharge, exclusions, tax rates and conditions.

Unlike the past schemes, no revenue realisation projection was made on the plea that it is meant for allowing the grey economy's inclusion in the tax net, Dawn newspaper said.

The government plans to present an austerity-oriented budget with no increase in the salaries of army officials of higher ranks.&nbsp;

This is the second time that the premier has appealed to the people to declare their benami assets and bank accounts under the government's Assets Declaration Scheme by June 30.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday warned of legal action against those who do not declare their undisclosed assets by June 30, as the cash-strapped government ramps up efforts to fix the country's economy.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday warned of legal action against those who do not declare their undisclosed assets by June 30, as the cash-strapped government ramps up efforts to fix the country's economy. Addressing the nation ahead of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 to be announced Tuesday, Khan said, "We will need to change ourselves if we want to become a great country." "I am appealing to all of you to take part in the Asset Declaration Scheme that we have brought because if we don't pay taxes, we will not be able to raise our country up," Khan said. The premier said that people have until June 30 to declare their benami assets, benami bank accounts and money that was kept abroad. Benami is a term used for a transaction, contract, or property that is made or held under a name that is fictitious or is that of a third party who holds as the ostensible owner for the principal or beneficial owner. "After June 30, you will not get this opportunity," he said. "Our agencies have information about who has benami accounts and benami properties," the premier said. "This was never available to us before therefore take advantage of this scheme. Give Pakistan the benefit. Fix your children's future. Give us, the chance that we get this country to stand on its own two feet and take people out of poverty," he said. "My Pakistanis, in the past ten years Pakistan's debt went from Rs 6,000 billion to Rs 30,000 billion," he said. Khan said that the damage that this had caused to the country was that the annual tax collected was approximately Rs 4,000 billion, half of which went towards repaying loans "they" had taken. "This country cannot cover its expenses on the money that is left behind," he added. Pakistan recently reached a preliminary agreement with the IMF for a $6 billion bailout. "Pakistan is the country that unfortunately gives the least tax in the world but is among the few countries that give the most charity." "This is the country that has [the] capability and if passion comes in, we can at the very least gather Rs10,000 billion every year," the premier said. In May, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government had announced its first tax amnesty scheme "Asset Declaration Scheme" for whitening of undisclosed expenditures, sales and assets, including foreign assets, at nominal tax rates. The scheme came into effect through a presidential ordinance, which will offer a period of 45 days to people for declaration of their undeclared assets, expenditures, and sales along with payment of taxes until June 30 this year. The scheme, approved by the federal Cabinet during a meeting presided over by the premier, has five main pillars, scope, default surcharge, exclusions, tax rates and conditions. Unlike the past schemes, no revenue realisation projection was made on the plea that it is meant for allowing the grey economy's inclusion in the tax net, Dawn newspaper said. The government plans to present an austerity-oriented budget with no increase in the salaries of army officials of higher ranks. This is the second time that the premier has appealed to the people to declare their benami assets and bank accounts under the government's Assets Declaration Scheme by June 30.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan asks citizens to declare undisclosed assets by June 30

Four Pakistani soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in a tribal region along the Afghan border, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday.

"Deeply saddened to learn of the shahadat of 3 officers &amp; 1 soldier from a terrorist-planted IED blast in Kharkamar, N.Waziristan," Khan said on his Twitter account.

He gave no more details but Dawn, Pakistan's biggest English-language newspaper, cited the military's media wing as saying four other soldiers were wounded when the blast targeted a military vehicle in North Waziristan on Friday.

The report did not say who was behind the bombing.

Violence in Pakistan has declined in recent years following a series of military operations along the northwestern border with Afghanistan, but militant groups are still able to carry out deadly attacks.

The military said the latest casualties bring to 10 the number of security personnel killed in "terrorist" violence in the area over the past month, Dawn reported.

Four Pakistani soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in a tribal region along the Afghan border, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday.

Four Pakistani soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in a tribal region along the Afghan border, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday. "Deeply saddened to learn of the shahadat of 3 officers & 1 soldier from a terrorist-planted IED blast in Kharkamar, N.Waziristan," Khan said on his Twitter account. He gave no more details but Dawn, Pakistan's biggest English-language newspaper, cited the military's media wing as saying four other soldiers were wounded when the blast targeted a military vehicle in North Waziristan on Friday. The report did not say who was behind the bombing. Violence in Pakistan has declined in recent years following a series of military operations along the northwestern border with Afghanistan, but militant groups are still able to carry out deadly attacks. The military said the latest casualties bring to 10 the number of security personnel killed in "terrorist" violence in the area over the past month, Dawn reported.

Blast kills 4 Pakistan soldiers in border region

In a letter to Modi congratulating him on his second term as the prime minister of India, Khan said talks between the two nations were the only solution to help both countries' people overcome poverty and that it was important to work together for regional development.

Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, says Pakistan wants talks with India to resolve all disputes

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Friday criticised the Imran Khan government for not allowing the family of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to meet him in jail even on the third day of Eid.

PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said in a statement that by adopting such tactics Prime Minister Khan was "taking revenge for his (PM's) incompetence and ineptness", the Express Tribune reported.

She said that while Khan fully enjoyed the Eid celebrations, he did not allow the former premier, who has been incarcerated in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat Jail since December last year, to meet his family even on Eid`s last day.

Meanwhile, Punjab government spokesperson Shahbaz Gill said that the PML-N had been left with no issue other than Sharif`s health.

He was quoted as saying that "Mian Sahib is quite healthy and living a normal life in jail".

He claimed that Sharif was denied a meeting with his family due to the terms of his prison sentence.

He said Sharif had met his family and over 225 party leaders and workers before Eid, while the family could meet him again on Saturday (today) as per jail authorities.

Referring to the former prime minister's routine of spending the last days of Ramazan and Eid in Saudi Arabia, Gill added that this was the first time when 'Mian Sahab'&nbsp;spent the Eid days in Pakistan only because he is imprisoned.

The three-time former Pakistani Prime Minister was sentenced to seven years in Lahore prison by an accountability court last year after he was found guilty in the Al Azizia Steel Mills corruption case.

The ailing Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader was granted bail on medical grounds by the Pakistani Supreme Court on March 26 for six weeks.

But the ousted leader returned to jail last month after the six-week bail expired on May 7 as the Supreme Court rejected his review petition seeking an extension to the bail.&nbsp;

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Friday criticised the Imran Khan government for not allowing the family of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to meet him in jail even on the third day of Eid.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Friday criticised the Imran Khan government for not allowing the family of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to meet him in jail even on the third day of Eid. PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said in a statement that by adopting such tactics Prime Minister Khan was "taking revenge for his (PM's) incompetence and ineptness", the Express Tribune reported. She said that while Khan fully enjoyed the Eid celebrations, he did not allow the former premier, who has been incarcerated in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat Jail since December last year, to meet his family even on Eid`s last day. Meanwhile, Punjab government spokesperson Shahbaz Gill said that the PML-N had been left with no issue other than Sharif`s health. He was quoted as saying that "Mian Sahib is quite healthy and living a normal life in jail". He claimed that Sharif was denied a meeting with his family due to the terms of his prison sentence. He said Sharif had met his family and over 225 party leaders and workers before Eid, while the family could meet him again on Saturday (today) as per jail authorities. Referring to the former prime minister's routine of spending the last days of Ramazan and Eid in Saudi Arabia, Gill added that this was the first time when 'Mian Sahab' spent the Eid days in Pakistan only because he is imprisoned. The three-time former Pakistani Prime Minister was sentenced to seven years in Lahore prison by an accountability court last year after he was found guilty in the Al Azizia Steel Mills corruption case. The ailing Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader was granted bail on medical grounds by the Pakistani Supreme Court on March 26 for six weeks. But the ousted leader returned to jail last month after the six-week bail expired on May 7 as the Supreme Court rejected his review petition seeking an extension to the bail.

Nawaz Sharif not allowed to meet family even on Eid

Pakistan's Finance Ministry expects economic growth in the financial year ending in June to hit 3.3%, well below a target of 6.2% set last year, with key sectors all performing worse than expected, according to a planning document seen by Reuters.

The document also sets a target of 4% growth for the 2020 financial year, underlining the economic headwinds facing the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The targets are due to be published officially on Monday ahead of the budget on June 11, which is expected to include tough austerity measures following a provisional bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

Khan`s government came to power in August facing a yawning budget deficit expected at around 7% of gross domestic product as well as a balance of payments crisis, with foreign exchange reserves that cover less than three months of imports.

It has promised reforms to stimulate exports, cut the deficit and overhaul the power sector, and has pushed ahead with an ambitious infrastructure development project with China. But Pakistani households have struggled, with inflation running at more than 9%.

Key sectors in Pakistan's economy are all performing below the levels foreseen in last year's budget, which was passed under the previous government of Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

Agriculture is seen growing just 0.8% compared with a 3.8% target, industrial output is set to rise 1.4% against a 7.6% target and services are forecast to grow 4.7%, compared with a target of 6.5%.

Pakistan's Finance Ministry expects economic growth in the financial year ending in June to hit 3.3%, well below a target of 6.2% set last year, with key sectors all performing worse than expected, according to a planning document seen by Reuters.

Pakistan's Finance Ministry expects economic growth in the financial year ending in June to hit 3.3%, well below a target of 6.2% set last year, with key sectors all performing worse than expected, according to a planning document seen by Reuters. The document also sets a target of 4% growth for the 2020 financial year, underlining the economic headwinds facing the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan. The targets are due to be published officially on Monday ahead of the budget on June 11, which is expected to include tough austerity measures following a provisional bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Khan`s government came to power in August facing a yawning budget deficit expected at around 7% of gross domestic product as well as a balance of payments crisis, with foreign exchange reserves that cover less than three months of imports. It has promised reforms to stimulate exports, cut the deficit and overhaul the power sector, and has pushed ahead with an ambitious infrastructure development project with China. But Pakistani households have struggled, with inflation running at more than 9%. Key sectors in Pakistan's economy are all performing below the levels foreseen in last year's budget, which was passed under the previous government of Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. Agriculture is seen growing just 0.8% compared with a 3.8% target, industrial output is set to rise 1.4% against a 7.6% target and services are forecast to grow 4.7%, compared with a target of 6.5%.

Pakistan sees 2019 GDP growth at 3.3%, sharply below target

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart&nbsp;Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.&nbsp;

According to Pakistan government sources, the letters underscored Pakistan's consistent policy of peaceful neighbourhood and the vision of working for durable peace and stability in South Asia.

Adding further, the sources said letter&nbsp;emphasised on the need to work together, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, to address challenges faced by people of both the countries, including poverty and underdevelopment.

The&nbsp;letter also called for the need to advance the goals of regional peace, progress and prosperity through collective endeavours was also underscored.

Ties between the two neighbouring countries have remained frayed since the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a United Nations-listed terror group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack

Pakistan's overture comes against the backdrop of the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. The Minister of External Affairs termed the visit purely "personal".

Meanwhile, the MEA has rejected the reports of a formal meeting between PM Modi and his counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan but a pull aside not ruled out.

"To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told WION.

Following the Pulwama attack, India went into overdrive to target Pakistan from multiple fronts. The country's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, prompting a counter-offensive by Pakistan the next day. At the same time, New Delhi worked the diplomatic phone lines to isolate Pakistan internationally.

The first breakthrough came after China allowed the UN to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist.

Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to PM Modi on phone and expressed his desire to work together for peace and prosperity in the region.

Modi on his part called for creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering peace and prosperity in the region.

India has rejected Pakistan's offer of talks, maintaining that terror and talks cannot go together.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad. According to Pakistan government sources, the letters underscored Pakistan's consistent policy of peaceful neighbourhood and the vision of working for durable peace and stability in South Asia. Adding further, the sources said letter emphasised on the need to work together, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, to address challenges faced by people of both the countries, including poverty and underdevelopment. The letter also called for the need to advance the goals of regional peace, progress and prosperity through collective endeavours was also underscored. Ties between the two neighbouring countries have remained frayed since the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a United Nations-listed terror group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack Pakistan's overture comes against the backdrop of the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. The Minister of External Affairs termed the visit purely "personal". Meanwhile, the MEA has rejected the reports of a formal meeting between PM Modi and his counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan but a pull aside not ruled out. "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told WION. Following the Pulwama attack, India went into overdrive to target Pakistan from multiple fronts. The country's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, prompting a counter-offensive by Pakistan the next day. At the same time, New Delhi worked the diplomatic phone lines to isolate Pakistan internationally. The first breakthrough came after China allowed the UN to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to PM Modi on phone and expressed his desire to work together for peace and prosperity in the region. Modi on his part called for creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering peace and prosperity in the region. India has rejected Pakistan's offer of talks, maintaining that terror and talks cannot go together.

Pakistan's Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, seeks to maintain peaceful neighbourhood

Pakistan Says Military Won't Get An Increase In Allocation Due To The Ongoing Economic Crisis Imran Khan lauds Pakistani Armed Forces for 'voluntary cuts' in defence spending despite multiple security challenges. But is it really a cutdown in spending, given that Pakistan spends similar amount of money to arm itself? Is Pakistan continuing with high defence spending when prices of essential commodities soar up? Palki explains

Gravitas: Pak military budget cut a sham?

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

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Eleven people died during the climbing season that ended this week, as record numbers lined the route to the summit. Although overcrowding was blamed for at least four deaths, many say inexperience is a bigger killer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-willing-to-sign-no-spy-agreement-with-us-government-chairman-224403">Huawei willing to sign 'no-spy agreement' with US government: Chairman Liang Hua</a>

In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that Huawei`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up.

Will take unprecedented action to ensure supply of rare earths critical to tech, military: US The United States will take "unprecedented actions" to ensure the supply of strategic minerals and rare earth critical to the tech sector and the military, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Tuesday.

Will take unprecedented action to ensure supply of rare earths critical to tech, military: US The United States will take "unprecedented actions" to ensure the supply of strategic minerals and rare earth critical to the tech sector and the military, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Tuesday. Pak PM Imran Khan announces military's 'voluntary cut' in defence expenditure amid financial crisis Pakistan PM Imran Khan announced today that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country. World Cup 2019: Virat Kohli's India begins campaign against 'stunned' South Africa Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their 2019 World Cup campaign against South Africa today at Southampton. All the participating teams have played at least one match in the ongoing edition and now the 'Men in Blue' will begin their quest to win the World Cup for the third time. Nepal may limit access to Everest after mountaineering deaths Eleven people died during the climbing season that ended this week, as record numbers lined the route to the summit. Although overcrowding was blamed for at least four deaths, many say inexperience is a bigger killer. Huawei willing to sign 'no-spy agreement' with US government: Chairman Liang Hua In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that Huawei`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan PM Imran Khan announced today that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country.

"Despite multiple security challenges. My government will spend this money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan," the Pakistan prime minister said on Twitter.

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I appreciate Pak Mil's unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in their defence expenditures for next FY bec of our critical financial situation, despite multiple security challenges. My govt will spend this money saved on dev of merged tribal areas &amp; Balochistan.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1135971466552512520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Major General Asif Ghafoor head of Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations(ISPR), the military's media wing, added&nbsp;that voluntary cut in the defence budget for a year wouldn't be at the cost of defence and security.&nbsp;

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Voluntary cut in def budget for a year will not be at the cost of def &amp; security. We shall maint effective response potential to all threats.Three services will manage impact of the cut through appropriate internal measures. It was imp to participate in dev of tribal areas &amp; Bln.
— Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1136003059476324353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We shall maintain effective response potential to all threats. Three services will manage the impact of the cut through appropriate internal measures. It is important to participate in the development of tribal areas and Balochistan," Ghafoor said.

However, the move was criticised by Opposition PML(N) leader Maryam Nawaz Sharif who said PM Imran Khan's announcement was "nothing but an admission of your incompetence and sheer ineptitude."

Last month the International Monetary Fund(IMF) had agreed on a $6 billion bailout for Pakistan's beleaguered economy. The IMF had stated that&nbsp;"priority" areas included improving the management of public enterprises, strengthening institutions and "continuing anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism efforts".

Pakistan has had 21 bailouts since it joined the IMF in 1950. It's most recent loan was issued in 2013, worth $6.6 billion.

Post the bailout, the Pakistan currency had hit an all-time low as the rupee slipped over 3 per cent last month.

Pakistan is battling being blacklisted by Financial Action Task Force (FATF) due to inaction on terror financing. The Pakistan economy for the past two years has been fighting a deep balance-of-payments crisis hit by low growth, soaring inflation&nbsp;and mounting debt.

In recent months, Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan has travelled to China, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia in an attempt to request financial aid, although he has been promised substantial aid but it still hasn't been enough to tide over the crisis.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan announced today that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan announced today that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country. "Despite multiple security challenges. My government will spend this money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan," the Pakistan prime minister said on Twitter. I appreciate Pak Mil's unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in their defence expenditures for next FY bec of our critical financial situation, despite multiple security challenges. My govt will spend this money saved on dev of merged tribal areas & Balochistan. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 4, 2019 × Major General Asif Ghafoor head of Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations(ISPR), the military's media wing, added that voluntary cut in the defence budget for a year wouldn't be at the cost of defence and security. Voluntary cut in def budget for a year will not be at the cost of def & security. We shall maint effective response potential to all threats.Three services will manage impact of the cut through appropriate internal measures. It was imp to participate in dev of tribal areas & Bln. — Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) June 4, 2019 × "We shall maintain effective response potential to all threats. Three services will manage the impact of the cut through appropriate internal measures. It is important to participate in the development of tribal areas and Balochistan," Ghafoor said. However, the move was criticised by Opposition PML(N) leader Maryam Nawaz Sharif who said PM Imran Khan's announcement was "nothing but an admission of your incompetence and sheer ineptitude." Last month the International Monetary Fund(IMF) had agreed on a $6 billion bailout for Pakistan's beleaguered economy. The IMF had stated that "priority" areas included improving the management of public enterprises, strengthening institutions and "continuing anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism efforts". Pakistan has had 21 bailouts since it joined the IMF in 1950. It's most recent loan was issued in 2013, worth $6.6 billion. Post the bailout, the Pakistan currency had hit an all-time low as the rupee slipped over 3 per cent last month. Pakistan is battling being blacklisted by Financial Action Task Force (FATF) due to inaction on terror financing. The Pakistan economy for the past two years has been fighting a deep balance-of-payments crisis hit by low growth, soaring inflation and mounting debt. In recent months, Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan has travelled to China, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia in an attempt to request financial aid, although he has been promised substantial aid but it still hasn't been enough to tide over the crisis.

Pak PM Imran Khan announces military's 'voluntary cut' in defence expenditure amid financial crisis

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, June 4th, 2019

In a move likely to plunge the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/strains-in-us-pak-relations-what-does-it-mean-for-india-191158">already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan</a> to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

The move has come a year after the US barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval, reports Sputnik.

With the decision turning effective immediately, over 20 members in the Pakistan embassy on Friday surrendered their Tax Exemption cards to the US authorities.

Notably, Pakistan has yet to provide tax exemption facilities to the US diplomats working in Islamabad since they applied for the same last year.&nbsp;

Diplomatic Tax Exemption Cards provides an exemption from sales, occupancy, and other similar taxes for the eligible foreign officials working in the United States, or its territory.

On Thursday, the Pakistani Embassy in the US had said that the two countries were discussing the said matter and were hoping to resolve it soon.

"There are thus ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the US on the status of exemption/refunds on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, which should not be construed as withdrawal of any privileges," the Embassy said in a statement.

Bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan have been strained since January 2018 when President Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid given to Pakistan.

In a move likely to plunge the already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

In a move likely to plunge the already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats. The move has come a year after the US barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval, reports Sputnik. With the decision turning effective immediately, over 20 members in the Pakistan embassy on Friday surrendered their Tax Exemption cards to the US authorities. Notably, Pakistan has yet to provide tax exemption facilities to the US diplomats working in Islamabad since they applied for the same last year. Diplomatic Tax Exemption Cards provides an exemption from sales, occupancy, and other similar taxes for the eligible foreign officials working in the United States, or its territory. On Thursday, the Pakistani Embassy in the US had said that the two countries were discussing the said matter and were hoping to resolve it soon. "There are thus ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the US on the status of exemption/refunds on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, which should not be construed as withdrawal of any privileges," the Embassy said in a statement. Bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan have been strained since January 2018 when President Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid given to Pakistan.

US withdraws tax exemption for Pakistan's diplomats

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday asserted that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism.&nbsp;

"No one ever blamed Hinduism for Tamil Tigers` bombings or Japanese religion when they blew up themselves on US ships. So why Islam is branded so?" Khan said during the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Makkah.

He, however, asserted that "the Muslim world has not been able to powerfully convince the world that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism," adding that the OIC should clarify its `propaganda` about Muslims.

The OIC is an international organisation founded in 1969.

One of its main aims is to preserve Islamic social and economic values and uphold international peace and security.

But some critics say it lacks real engagement and solutions for Muslim countries in crisis even as it made progress socially and academically.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday asserted that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism. "No one ever blamed Hinduism for Tamil Tigers` bombings or Japanese religion when they blew up themselves on US ships.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday asserted that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism. "No one ever blamed Hinduism for Tamil Tigers` bombings or Japanese religion when they blew up themselves on US ships. So why Islam is branded so?" Khan said during the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Makkah. He, however, asserted that "the Muslim world has not been able to powerfully convince the world that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism," adding that the OIC should clarify its `propaganda` about Muslims. The OIC is an international organisation founded in 1969. One of its main aims is to preserve Islamic social and economic values and uphold international peace and security. But some critics say it lacks real engagement and solutions for Muslim countries in crisis even as it made progress socially and academically.

Islam has nothing to do with terrorism: Imran Khan

Pakistan's additional attorney general Zahid F Ebrahim on Wednesday resigned as a protest against alleged interference in the judiciary by the government.

Ebrahim in his resignation sent to President Arif Alvi said that he took the decision after reports in the media that Alvi ordered formal probes of misconduct against some judges of the Supreme Court and the Sindh High Court.

He said that it was a "reckless attempt to browbeat the judiciary", as one of the probes was reportedly against a judge who gave a verdict against sit-in by a religious party in 2017. The judge had criticized the role of security and intelligence institutions.&nbsp;

"In view of the above, I cannot in good conscience continue in office,"&nbsp;Ebrahim added.

Though the names of the judges have not been revealed but media reports showed said that the Supreme Court judge to be probed was Qazi Faez Esa who is considered independent-minded.&nbsp;

Pakistan's additional attorney general Zahid F Ebrahim on Wednesday resigned as a protest against alleged interference in the judiciary by the government. Ebrahim in his resignation sent to President Arif Alvi said that he took the decision after reports in the media that Alvi ordered formal probes of misconduct against some judges of the Supreme Court and the Sindh High Court.

Pakistan's additional attorney general Zahid F Ebrahim on Wednesday resigned as a protest against alleged interference in the judiciary by the government. Ebrahim in his resignation sent to President Arif Alvi said that he took the decision after reports in the media that Alvi ordered formal probes of misconduct against some judges of the Supreme Court and the Sindh High Court. He said that it was a "reckless attempt to browbeat the judiciary", as one of the probes was reportedly against a judge who gave a verdict against sit-in by a religious party in 2017. The judge had criticized the role of security and intelligence institutions. "In view of the above, I cannot in good conscience continue in office," Ebrahim added. Though the names of the judges have not been revealed but media reports showed said that the Supreme Court judge to be probed was Qazi Faez Esa who is considered independent-minded.

Pakistan: Additional attorney general resigns over government interference in judiciary

India has dismissed reports about a structured meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the Shanghai cooperation organisation summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The summit will take place in the second week of June.&nbsp;

It will be for the first time that both leaders will be face to face since Imran Khan became the prime minister of Pakistan&nbsp;last year.

Government sources said, "Report appearing in a section of the media about a possible meeting between Modi and Imran Khan is entirely speculative."

Khan had called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him on his victory. During the conversation, no invite was extended to Imran Khan for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30.

Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan based and United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India has dismissed reports about a structured meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the Shanghai cooperation organisation summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

India has dismissed reports about a structured meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the Shanghai cooperation organisation summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The summit will take place in the second week of June. It will be for the first time that both leaders will be face to face since Imran Khan became the prime minister of Pakistan last year. Government sources said, "Report appearing in a section of the media about a possible meeting between Modi and Imran Khan is entirely speculative." Khan had called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him on his victory. During the conversation, no invite was extended to Imran Khan for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30. Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan based and United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.

PM Modi, Pakistan's Imran Khan structured meet unlikely at SCO in Bishkek

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Meet will be on 13-14 June. There is information coming out through sources that there will be no formal talks between India & Pakistan at SCO sideline. Watch this video to know more.

Sources: No India-Pak dialogues on the sidelines of SCO summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-vice-president-to-arrive-in-pakistan-on-sunday-221776">Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan</a> visited Lahore as part of his trip to promote economic cooperation with the Punjab province, the largest and most developed region of Pakistan.

He reached the provincial metropolis on Monday on a two-day trip to meet officials and visit Chinese investment centres in the province.

Wang visited the Haier-Ruba Economic Zone in Lahore along with Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing and Consul General Long Dingbin on Monday.

The Haier-Ruba zone, a major player in the domestic market, sells various consumer products.

Wang also met Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and discussed how to increase cooperation with Punjab.

The senior Chinese leader said that his government would welcome economic cooperation between the Punjab government and the big provinces of China.

Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, who hosted dinner in the honour of Wang, said a new era of cooperation has started between Pakistan and China with his visit.

Wang, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC), also visited Taxila archaeological museum where Buddhist artefacts from Gandhara civilisation are preserved.

The senior Chinese leader, who arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for a three-day visit, met President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Various agreements have been signed in Islamabad after delegation-level talks between the two sides.

The Pakistani officials said that the visit would expedite the $60 billion<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-will-always-stand-by-pakistans-core-interests-chinese-vice-president-221991"> China-Pakistan Economic Corridor</a> (CPEC).

The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan visited Lahore as part of his trip to promote economic cooperation with the Punjab province, the largest and most developed region of Pakistan.

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan visited Lahore as part of his trip to promote economic cooperation with the Punjab province, the largest and most developed region of Pakistan. He reached the provincial metropolis on Monday on a two-day trip to meet officials and visit Chinese investment centres in the province. Wang visited the Haier-Ruba Economic Zone in Lahore along with Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing and Consul General Long Dingbin on Monday. The Haier-Ruba zone, a major player in the domestic market, sells various consumer products. Wang also met Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and discussed how to increase cooperation with Punjab. The senior Chinese leader said that his government would welcome economic cooperation between the Punjab government and the big provinces of China. Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, who hosted dinner in the honour of Wang, said a new era of cooperation has started between Pakistan and China with his visit. Wang, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC), also visited Taxila archaeological museum where Buddhist artefacts from Gandhara civilisation are preserved. The senior Chinese leader, who arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for a three-day visit, met President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan. Various agreements have been signed in Islamabad after delegation-level talks between the two sides. The Pakistani officials said that the visit would expedite the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

Chinese Vice President Wang visits Lahore to promote trade cooperation

The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has organised an Iftar party on &nbsp;June 1 and has extended an invitation to Pakistani leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Other invited Pakistani dignitaries include the Pakistani President Arif Alvi, the foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood, Senate Chairman and the speaker of the national assembly.&nbsp;

The mission invites all dignitaries each year and normally Prime Minister never comes.

Ties between India and Pakistan are frayed in the aftermath Pulwama terror attack. On Sunday, Imran Khan called India's Prime Minister-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/road-ahead-for-pm-narendra-modi-222133">Narendra Modi</a> and congratulated him on his re-election.

During the conversation, PM-designate Modi "stressed that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism" which is "essential for fostering cooperation for peace, progress and prosperity in our region," the ministry of external affairs said.

Sunday's call was the first conversation between the two leaders after the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which more than 40 Indian security personnel had died. Pakistan based and United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, no invitation has been extended to Imran Khan for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in the second week of June will be the first time both leaders will be under the same roof, though it is not confirmed whether they will meet.

The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has organised an Iftar party on June 1 and has extended an invitation to Pakistani leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has organised an Iftar party on June 1 and has extended an invitation to Pakistani leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan. Other invited Pakistani dignitaries include the Pakistani President Arif Alvi, the foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood, Senate Chairman and the speaker of the national assembly. The mission invites all dignitaries each year and normally Prime Minister never comes. Ties between India and Pakistan are frayed in the aftermath Pulwama terror attack. On Sunday, Imran Khan called India's Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi and congratulated him on his re-election. During the conversation, PM-designate Modi "stressed that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism" which is "essential for fostering cooperation for peace, progress and prosperity in our region," the ministry of external affairs said. Sunday's call was the first conversation between the two leaders after the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which more than 40 Indian security personnel had died. Pakistan based and United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, no invitation has been extended to Imran Khan for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in the second week of June will be the first time both leaders will be under the same roof, though it is not confirmed whether they will meet.

India mission in Pakistan invites Imran Khan to Iftar party on June 1

China will always stand by Pakistan's "core interests" no matter how the international landscape changes, visiting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-vice-president-to-arrive-in-pakistan-on-sunday-221776">Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan</a> has said as he cited the $60 billion CPEC as the manifestation of their all-weather relationship.

Addressing a meeting on Sunday organised by the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI), the senior Chinese leader said the world was passing through a time of major developments and transformation.&nbsp;

The situation, he emphasised, had been further complicated by traditional and non-traditional challenges and conflict between opposing schools of thought and culture.

"No matter how the international landscape changes, China will always stand by Pakistan's core interests, and both Pakistan and China have made the right choice based on equality and mutual benefit," Wang said.&nbsp;

Wang, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China, said that the spirit of the Silk Road binds the two countries together with a common heritage and history.

He also appreciated the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and said that the second phase of the project would even bring more benefits for both Pakistan and China.

The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

"The CPEC has come a long way over the past five years. The CPEC is rapidly extending to new priority areas including industrial parks and livelihoods," he said.

The Chinese leader said that China and Pakistan were all-weather strategic partners. He recalled Pakistan's support for China at critical moments&nbsp;and said that his country always supported Pakistan to achieve core interests.

He said that the CPEC was a manifestation of their collaborative relations.

Wang also referred to the international situation and said that despite challenges, the way forward is globalisation, free trade and people-to-people connectivity.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that the CPEC was a binding force between Pakistan and China.

Citing the recent visit of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-warns-against-war-in-region-amid-iran-tensions-with-us-saudi-221530/amp">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> to China for the Belt and Road Forum, he praised the CPEC for contributing to the progress of Pakistan.&nbsp;

China will always stand by Pakistan's "core interests" no matter how the international landscape changes, visiting Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan has said as he cited the $60 billion CPEC as the manifestation of their all-weather relationship.

China will always stand by Pakistan's "core interests" no matter how the international landscape changes, visiting Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan has said as he cited the $60 billion CPEC as the manifestation of their all-weather relationship. Addressing a meeting on Sunday organised by the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI), the senior Chinese leader said the world was passing through a time of major developments and transformation. The situation, he emphasised, had been further complicated by traditional and non-traditional challenges and conflict between opposing schools of thought and culture. "No matter how the international landscape changes, China will always stand by Pakistan's core interests, and both Pakistan and China have made the right choice based on equality and mutual benefit," Wang said. Wang, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China, said that the spirit of the Silk Road binds the two countries together with a common heritage and history. He also appreciated the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and said that the second phase of the project would even bring more benefits for both Pakistan and China. The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. "The CPEC has come a long way over the past five years. The CPEC is rapidly extending to new priority areas including industrial parks and livelihoods," he said. The Chinese leader said that China and Pakistan were all-weather strategic partners. He recalled Pakistan's support for China at critical moments and said that his country always supported Pakistan to achieve core interests. He said that the CPEC was a manifestation of their collaborative relations. Wang also referred to the international situation and said that despite challenges, the way forward is globalisation, free trade and people-to-people connectivity. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that the CPEC was a binding force between Pakistan and China. Citing the recent visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to China for the Belt and Road Forum, he praised the CPEC for contributing to the progress of Pakistan.

China will always stand by Pakistan's 'core interests': Vice President Wang Qishan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-imran-khan-speaks-to-pm-modi-expresses-desire-to-work-together-foreign-office-221781">Create an 'environment free of terrorism', says Modi to Pakistan PM Imran Khan</a>

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday called PM Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his re-election in the landslide victory last week during which the latter called for creating an "environment free of terrorism." &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-to-take-oath-as-pm-on-may-30-221788">Narendra Modi to be sworn in as Prime Minister on May 30 at 7pm</a>

The swearing-in ceremony of the new government is scheduled to take place on May 30 when Narendra Modi along with the Members of Union Council of Ministers will take the oath.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaganmohan-reddy-meets-pm-modi-discusses-special-status-for-andhra-pradesh-221763">Situation would have been different had BJP won just 250 seats, says Jagan Reddy after meeting Modi</a>

''Situation would have been different had the BJP won just 250 seats, we would have then supported the BJP only after they signed the Special Category Status (SCS) document,'' said YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister-designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy on Sunday after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-defend-itself-against-any-aggression-says-foreign-minister-221768">Iran will defend itself against any military or economic aggression, says foreign minister Javad Zarif</a>

Iranian will defend itself against any military or economic aggression, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday, calling on European states to do more to preserve a nuclear agreement his country signed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modis-first-foreign-visit-in-second-term-will-be-to-maldives-221777">Modi picks Maldives for first foreign visit in second term</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make his first foreign visit to the Maldives after assuming office for his second term, according to Maldivian media Raajje.

"Modi is expected to visit the Maldives from 7 to 8 June," the report added.&nbsp;

Create an 'environment free of terrorism', says Modi to Pakistan PM Imran Khan Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday called PM Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his re-election in the landslide victory last week during which the latter called for creating an "environment free of terrorism.

Create an 'environment free of terrorism', says Modi to Pakistan PM Imran Khan Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday called PM Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his re-election in the landslide victory last week during which the latter called for creating an "environment free of terrorism." Narendra Modi to be sworn in as Prime Minister on May 30 at 7pm The swearing-in ceremony of the new government is scheduled to take place on May 30 when Narendra Modi along with the Members of Union Council of Ministers will take the oath. Situation would have been different had BJP won just 250 seats, says Jagan Reddy after meeting Modi ''Situation would have been different had the BJP won just 250 seats, we would have then supported the BJP only after they signed the Special Category Status (SCS) document,'' said YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister-designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy on Sunday after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Iran will defend itself against any military or economic aggression, says foreign minister Javad Zarif Iranian will defend itself against any military or economic aggression, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday, calling on European states to do more to preserve a nuclear agreement his country signed. Modi picks Maldives for first foreign visit in second term Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make his first foreign visit to the Maldives after assuming office for his second term, according to Maldivian media Raajje. "Modi is expected to visit the Maldives from 7 to 8 June," the report added.

PM Elect Modi To Sworn-in On May 30. Watch this video for further details.

PM Elect Modi To Sworn-in On May 30

It is final through Govt Sources, There is no official invitation to to Pakistani PM. Watch this video to know more.

Govt Sources: No Official Invitation To Pakistani PM For Modi's Swearing-in Ceremony

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