India has been one of the fastest growing large economies in the world, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said, asserting that the country has carried out several key reforms in the last five years, but more needs to be done.

Responding to a question on India's economic development in the last five years at a fortnightly news conference here, IMF communications director Gerry Rice Thursday said, "India has of course been one of the world's fastest-growing large economies of late, with growth averaging about seven per cent over the past five years."

"Important reforms have been implemented and we feel more reforms are needed to sustain this high growth, including to harness the demographic dividend opportunity, which India has," he said.

Details about the Indian economy would be revealed in the upcoming World Economic Outlook (WEO) survey report to be released by the IMF ahead of the annual spring meeting with the World Bank next month, he said.

This report would be the first under Indian American economist Gita Gopinath, who is now IMF's chief economist.

"The WEO will go into more details. But amongst the policy priorities, we would include accelerate the cleanup of banks and corporate balance sheets, continue fiscal consolidation, both at centre and state levels, and broadly maintain the reform momentum in terms of structural reforms in factor markets, labour, land reforms and further enhancing the business climate to achieve faster and more inclusive growth," Rice said.&nbsp;

India has been one of the fastest growing large economies in the world, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said, asserting that the country has carried out several key reforms in the last five years, but more needs to be done.

India has been one of the fastest growing large economies in the world, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said, asserting that the country has carried out several key reforms in the last five years, but more needs to be done. Responding to a question on India's economic development in the last five years at a fortnightly news conference here, IMF communications director Gerry Rice Thursday said, "India has of course been one of the world's fastest-growing large economies of late, with growth averaging about seven per cent over the past five years." "Important reforms have been implemented and we feel more reforms are needed to sustain this high growth, including to harness the demographic dividend opportunity, which India has," he said. Details about the Indian economy would be revealed in the upcoming World Economic Outlook (WEO) survey report to be released by the IMF ahead of the annual spring meeting with the World Bank next month, he said. This report would be the first under Indian American economist Gita Gopinath, who is now IMF's chief economist. "The WEO will go into more details. But amongst the policy priorities, we would include accelerate the cleanup of banks and corporate balance sheets, continue fiscal consolidation, both at centre and state levels, and broadly maintain the reform momentum in terms of structural reforms in factor markets, labour, land reforms and further enhancing the business climate to achieve faster and more inclusive growth," Rice said.

India one of world's fastest-growing large economies: IMF

Fitch Ratings Friday cut India's GDP growth forecast for the next fiscal to 6.8 per cent from 7 per cent estimated earlier on weaker than expected economic momentum.

In its latest Global Economic Outlook, Fitch also slashed GDP growth forecast for current fiscal ending March 2019 to 6.9 per cent from 7.2 per cent projected in the December edition.

The 6.9 per cent estimate is a notch lower than 7 per cent growth estimated by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) for the current fiscal.

The Indian economy grew 7.2 per cent in 2017-18 fiscal.

"While we have cut our growth forecasts for the next fiscal year (FY20, ending March 2020) on weaker than expected momentum, we still see Indian GDP growth to hold up reasonably well at 6.8 per cent followed by 7.1 per cent in FY21," Fitch said.

The rating agency said India's GDP growth softened for the second consecutive quarter in the October-December period at 6.6 per cent after clocking a growth of 7 per cent and 8 per cent in July-September and April-June periods, respectively.

"The slowdown has been driven by cooling activity growth in the manufacturing sector and, to a lesser extent, agriculture. Weaker momentum has been mainly domestically driven," Fitch said.

It said, credit availability has tightened up in areas heavily dependent on non-bank financial companies (NBFCs), such as autos and two-wheelers, where sales have dropped.

Also, food inflation has been muted and fell into negative territory late last year, weighing on farmers' incomes.

According to Fitch rupee is expected to weaken to 72 to a dollar by the end of December 2019, and further to 73 by December 2020, from 69.82 to a dollar in end December 2018.

It said, fiscal and monetary policies are becoming more growth-friendly and RBI adopted a dovish stance and cut interest rates by 0.25 per cent last month.

"We have changed our rate outlook and we now expect another 25bp cut in 2019, amid protracted below-target inflation and easier global monetary conditions than previously envisaged," Fitch said.

Fitch also cut its global GDP forecasts for 2018 and 2019 at 3.2 per cent in 2018 and 2.8 per cent in 2019 from 3.3 per cent and 3.1 per cent respectively projected earlier.

It, however, retained China's growth projections at 6.6 per cent in 2018 and 6.1 per cent in 2019.

It estimates oil prices to remain around 65 dollars to a barrel in 2019 and fall to $62.5 to a barrel in 2020, from $71.6 a barrel in 2018.&nbsp;

Fitch Ratings Friday cut India's GDP growth forecast for the next fiscal to 6.8 per cent from 7 per cent estimated earlier on weaker than expected economic momentum.

Fitch Ratings Friday cut India's GDP growth forecast for the next fiscal to 6.8 per cent from 7 per cent estimated earlier on weaker than expected economic momentum. In its latest Global Economic Outlook, Fitch also slashed GDP growth forecast for current fiscal ending March 2019 to 6.9 per cent from 7.2 per cent projected in the December edition. The 6.9 per cent estimate is a notch lower than 7 per cent growth estimated by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) for the current fiscal. The Indian economy grew 7.2 per cent in 2017-18 fiscal. "While we have cut our growth forecasts for the next fiscal year (FY20, ending March 2020) on weaker than expected momentum, we still see Indian GDP growth to hold up reasonably well at 6.8 per cent followed by 7.1 per cent in FY21," Fitch said. The rating agency said India's GDP growth softened for the second consecutive quarter in the October-December period at 6.6 per cent after clocking a growth of 7 per cent and 8 per cent in July-September and April-June periods, respectively. "The slowdown has been driven by cooling activity growth in the manufacturing sector and, to a lesser extent, agriculture. Weaker momentum has been mainly domestically driven," Fitch said. It said, credit availability has tightened up in areas heavily dependent on non-bank financial companies (NBFCs), such as autos and two-wheelers, where sales have dropped. Also, food inflation has been muted and fell into negative territory late last year, weighing on farmers' incomes. According to Fitch rupee is expected to weaken to 72 to a dollar by the end of December 2019, and further to 73 by December 2020, from 69.82 to a dollar in end December 2018. It said, fiscal and monetary policies are becoming more growth-friendly and RBI adopted a dovish stance and cut interest rates by 0.25 per cent last month. "We have changed our rate outlook and we now expect another 25bp cut in 2019, amid protracted below-target inflation and easier global monetary conditions than previously envisaged," Fitch said. Fitch also cut its global GDP forecasts for 2018 and 2019 at 3.2 per cent in 2018 and 2.8 per cent in 2019 from 3.3 per cent and 3.1 per cent respectively projected earlier. It, however, retained China's growth projections at 6.6 per cent in 2018 and 6.1 per cent in 2019. It estimates oil prices to remain around 65 dollars to a barrel in 2019 and fall to $62.5 to a barrel in 2020, from $71.6 a barrel in 2018.

Fitch cuts India growth forecast for upcoming financial year to 6.8%

India to China: Will not accept projects that hurt our sovereignty

India asks Pakistan to expedite investigation against terror

The United States has asked Pakistan to take sustained, verifiable and irreversible action against the perpetrators of terrorism, while warning the country that another terror attack on India will prove to be "extremely problematic".

"We need to see Pakistan taking concrete and sustained action to reign in the terrorist groups, mainly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-army-says-jaish-e-mohammed-does-not-exist-in-pakistan-contradicts-foreign-minister-qureshi-201624">the Jaish-e-Mohammed and the Lashkar-e-Taiba</a> in order to ensure that we don't have re-escalation (of tension) in the region," a senior administration official told reporters at the White House on Wednesday.

"And, if there's any additional terrorist attack without Pakistan having made a sustained, sincere effort against these groups, it would be extremely problematic for Pakistan and it would cause re-escalation of tensions, which is dangerous for both countries," the official said on the condition of anonymity.

Asked about the steps being taken by Pakistan in the aftermath of the Balakot air strike by Indian fighter jets, the official said the US and the international community needed to see "irreversible and sustained" action against the terror groups.

"It's early to make a full assessment," the official said.&nbsp;

In the recent days, the official said Pakistan has taken some "initial" actions. They have frozen the assets of some terrorist groups and made some arrests. They have taken administrative control of some of the JeM facilities, the official added.&nbsp;

"But we clearly need to see more. We need to see irreversible action because in the past, what we've seen is they made some arrests and then a few months later, they released these individuals. The terrorist leaders are sometimes still allowed to travel around the country, hold rallies," the official said.

Reiterating that the United States is looking for "irreversible action", the official said America is working with its international partners to increase pressure on Pakistan. "Because it has been too long that these groups have been able to operate."

Observing that Pakistan has economic concerns as well, the official said the Financial Action Tasks Force (FATF) is one area which demonstrates the need for them to take these actions against terror groups. "Otherwise, they're at risk within the system and the FATF to be grey-listed," the official said.&nbsp;

Pakistan needs to decide if it wants to be viewed as a responsible international player and have access to all the financial mechanisms that are available or is it going to continue to fail to take the steps necessary against these terrorist groups and see itself further isolated. "The choice is Pakistan's," the senior administration official asserted.

While the situation between the two south Asian neighbours have de-escalated, the two armies are still on high alert and that concerns the US, the official said.

"So, we realize that if there, God forbid, would be another terrorist attack that you could quickly see the escalation in the situation once again. So that's why, we're making clear that any additional military action by either side runs an unacceptably high risk, for both countries and for the region," the official said.

The Trump Administration, the official said, has taken sort of a "zero tolerance policy" on the issue of safe havens to terrorists.&nbsp;

"The terror terrorist attack on February 14th on India was a demonstration that Pakistan's continuing provision of sanctuary for any terrorist group is not acceptable," the official said. 
During the height of the crisis -- February 26-28 -- the United States was in continuous contact with Indian and Pakistani officials, both on the ground in New Delhi and Islamabad.

"They were working the phones continuously and were deeply engaged in seeking to deescalate what was a very dangerous moment in India-Pakistan relations," the official said.

The United States has also reached out to influential countries to have them help deescalate the situation, the senior administration official said.

Some of these countries are China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

The United States has asked Pakistan to take sustained, verifiable and irreversible action against the perpetrators of terrorism, while warning the country that another terror attack on India will prove to be "extremely problematic".

The United States has asked Pakistan to take sustained, verifiable and irreversible action against the perpetrators of terrorism, while warning the country that another terror attack on India will prove to be "extremely problematic". "We need to see Pakistan taking concrete and sustained action to reign in the terrorist groups, mainly the Jaish-e-Mohammed and the Lashkar-e-Taiba in order to ensure that we don't have re-escalation (of tension) in the region," a senior administration official told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. "And, if there's any additional terrorist attack without Pakistan having made a sustained, sincere effort against these groups, it would be extremely problematic for Pakistan and it would cause re-escalation of tensions, which is dangerous for both countries," the official said on the condition of anonymity. Asked about the steps being taken by Pakistan in the aftermath of the Balakot air strike by Indian fighter jets, the official said the US and the international community needed to see "irreversible and sustained" action against the terror groups. "It's early to make a full assessment," the official said. In the recent days, the official said Pakistan has taken some "initial" actions. They have frozen the assets of some terrorist groups and made some arrests. They have taken administrative control of some of the JeM facilities, the official added. "But we clearly need to see more. We need to see irreversible action because in the past, what we've seen is they made some arrests and then a few months later, they released these individuals. The terrorist leaders are sometimes still allowed to travel around the country, hold rallies," the official said. Reiterating that the United States is looking for "irreversible action", the official said America is working with its international partners to increase pressure on Pakistan. "Because it has been too long that these groups have been able to operate." Observing that Pakistan has economic concerns as well, the official said the Financial Action Tasks Force (FATF) is one area which demonstrates the need for them to take these actions against terror groups. "Otherwise, they're at risk within the system and the FATF to be grey-listed," the official said. Pakistan needs to decide if it wants to be viewed as a responsible international player and have access to all the financial mechanisms that are available or is it going to continue to fail to take the steps necessary against these terrorist groups and see itself further isolated. "The choice is Pakistan's," the senior administration official asserted. While the situation between the two south Asian neighbours have de-escalated, the two armies are still on high alert and that concerns the US, the official said. "So, we realize that if there, God forbid, would be another terrorist attack that you could quickly see the escalation in the situation once again. So that's why, we're making clear that any additional military action by either side runs an unacceptably high risk, for both countries and for the region," the official said. The Trump Administration, the official said, has taken sort of a "zero tolerance policy" on the issue of safe havens to terrorists. "The terror terrorist attack on February 14th on India was a demonstration that Pakistan's continuing provision of sanctuary for any terrorist group is not acceptable," the official said. During the height of the crisis -- February 26-28 -- the United States was in continuous contact with Indian and Pakistani officials, both on the ground in New Delhi and Islamabad. "They were working the phones continuously and were deeply engaged in seeking to deescalate what was a very dangerous moment in India-Pakistan relations," the official said. The United States has also reached out to influential countries to have them help deescalate the situation, the senior administration official said. Some of these countries are China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Japan and Australia.

Another terror attack in India will be 'extremely problematic': US to Pakistan

India will not send any representative for Pakistan National Day reception on Friday as Pakistani High Commission has extended an invitation to Hurriyat representatives for the event. Pakistani national day is marked on 23rd March every year.

The development comes on the back of Pulwama terror attack on February 14 which killed more than 40 Indian CRPF personnel.

On Pakistan National Day (March 23) Muslim League passed the Lahore resolution calling for the formation of Pakistan on March 23, 1940. Pakistan adopted its first constitution on March 23, 1956.&nbsp;

This year Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be the chief guest at the Pakistan Day Parade in Islamabad.

In the recent past, India had sent the minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Gen V.K. Singh, Former minister of state in the ministry of external affairs MJ Akbar and minister of state in agriculture ministry Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as New Delhi's representative to the national day.

It is part of a diplomatic tradition that a host country is invited to importation national events by any embassy or high commission and the host country deputies a political representative according to the nature of relationship it has.

India has been taking a strong stance against Pakistan's outreach to Hurriyat. In January this year, India summoned the Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood after Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi spoke to Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

India will not send any representative for Pakistan National Day reception on Friday as Pakistani High Commission has extended an invitation to Hurriyat representatives for the event.

India will not send any representative for Pakistan National Day reception on Friday as Pakistani High Commission has extended an invitation to Hurriyat representatives for the event. Pakistani national day is marked on 23rd March every year. The development comes on the back of Pulwama terror attack on February 14 which killed more than 40 Indian CRPF personnel. On Pakistan National Day (March 23) Muslim League passed the Lahore resolution calling for the formation of Pakistan on March 23, 1940. Pakistan adopted its first constitution on March 23, 1956. This year Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be the chief guest at the Pakistan Day Parade in Islamabad. In the recent past, India had sent the minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Gen V.K. Singh, Former minister of state in the ministry of external affairs MJ Akbar and minister of state in agriculture ministry Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as New Delhi's representative to the national day. It is part of a diplomatic tradition that a host country is invited to importation national events by any embassy or high commission and the host country deputies a political representative according to the nature of relationship it has. India has been taking a strong stance against Pakistan's outreach to Hurriyat. In January this year, India summoned the Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood after Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi spoke to Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

India not to send any representative for Pak National Day reception this year 

UN: India falls at 140th in 'Happiness Index'

India asks Pakistan to expedite Mumbai 26/11 terror attack probe

India Thursday welcomed the arrest of bank fraud accused Nirav Modi by British authorities in London, and said it was engaged with the UK for his extradition at the earliest.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said India continued to actively follow up with the UK the case of Modi's extradition to India.&nbsp;

"We welcome the fact that Nirav Modi has been arrested by the United Kingdom authorities pursuant to the arrest warrant issued by the Westminster Magistrate Court," Kumar said.&nbsp;

"Government of India continues to actively follow up this matter with the authorities concerned in the UK, with a view to have Nirav Modi extradited to India at the earliest," he said.

The arrest of Modi, the main accused in the USD 2 billion PNB scam case, came days after a London court issued an arrest warrant against him in response to a request by the Enforcement Directorate for his extradition in a money laundering case.

On Wednesday, a court in the UK, remanded him in custody till March 29. 
Modi and his uncle, Mehul Choksi, are the main accused in the PNB scam and they both left India before the details of the fraud came to light in January 2018.

Modi is one of India's richest men, worth an estimated USD 1.75 billion, according to Forbes. He launched his own eponymous brand in 2010 and he soon had stores across India, as well as in New York, London and Hong Kong.&nbsp;

India Thursday welcomed the arrest of bank fraud accused Nirav Modi by British authorities in London, and said it was engaged with the UK for his extradition at the earliest.

India Thursday welcomed the arrest of bank fraud accused Nirav Modi by British authorities in London, and said it was engaged with the UK for his extradition at the earliest. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said India continued to actively follow up with the UK the case of Modi's extradition to India. "We welcome the fact that Nirav Modi has been arrested by the United Kingdom authorities pursuant to the arrest warrant issued by the Westminster Magistrate Court," Kumar said. "Government of India continues to actively follow up this matter with the authorities concerned in the UK, with a view to have Nirav Modi extradited to India at the earliest," he said. The arrest of Modi, the main accused in the USD 2 billion PNB scam case, came days after a London court issued an arrest warrant against him in response to a request by the Enforcement Directorate for his extradition in a money laundering case. On Wednesday, a court in the UK, remanded him in custody till March 29. Modi and his uncle, Mehul Choksi, are the main accused in the PNB scam and they both left India before the details of the fraud came to light in January 2018. Modi is one of India's richest men, worth an estimated USD 1.75 billion, according to Forbes. He launched his own eponymous brand in 2010 and he soon had stores across India, as well as in New York, London and Hong Kong.

India engaged with UK for earliest extradition of Nirav Modi: MEA

India has Pakistan to expedite the Mumbai 26/11 trials, Pathankot investigation even as it rejected Pakistani assertion after a Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court acquitted of all four accused, including Swami Aseemanand in the Samjhauta Attack &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria was summoned by acting foreign secretary in Islamabad after the Samjhauta verdict by a special court in Panchkula, Haryana.&nbsp;

Indian High Commissioner highlighted that the due process of law was followed by the Indian Courts and emphasised the lack of cooperation from Pakistan government including Court summons not delivered to Pakistan witnesses in the case. The summons sent by Indian courts were returned by Pakistani foreign office and not served.

Ajay Bisaria also asked Islamabad to expedite the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack in which New Delhi has already given evidence.

Its been 10 years since the attacks which took place in Mumbai in 2008 but the mastermind of 26/11 like Hafiz Saeed continues to roam freely in Pakistan.

The High Commission also shared India's concerns at the lack of progress in Pathankot airbase terror attack case investigation.

India had arranged a visit of a five-member Pakistani investigation team to the air base after the attack and shared the evidence of Pakistan based terror group's role in the attack.&nbsp;

Islamabad was also reminded that no credible steps have been taken against United Nations-listed and Pakistan based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad despite a detailed dossier having been shared after Pulwama attack.

J-e-Mo was the group behind the Pulwama terror attack and 2016 Pathankote attack.

India has Pakistan to expedite the Mumbai 26/11 trials, Pathankot investigation even as it rejected Pakistani assertion after a Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court acquitted of all four accused, including Swami Aseemanand in the Samjhauta Attack The Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria was summoned by acting foreign secretary in Islamabad after the Samjhauta verdict by a special court in Panchkula, Haryana.

India has Pakistan to expedite the Mumbai 26/11 trials, Pathankot investigation even as it rejected Pakistani assertion after a Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court acquitted of all four accused, including Swami Aseemanand in the Samjhauta Attack The Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria was summoned by acting foreign secretary in Islamabad after the Samjhauta verdict by a special court in Panchkula, Haryana. Indian High Commissioner highlighted that the due process of law was followed by the Indian Courts and emphasised the lack of cooperation from Pakistan government including Court summons not delivered to Pakistan witnesses in the case. The summons sent by Indian courts were returned by Pakistani foreign office and not served. Ajay Bisaria also asked Islamabad to expedite the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack in which New Delhi has already given evidence. Its been 10 years since the attacks which took place in Mumbai in 2008 but the mastermind of 26/11 like Hafiz Saeed continues to roam freely in Pakistan. The High Commission also shared India's concerns at the lack of progress in Pathankot airbase terror attack case investigation. India had arranged a visit of a five-member Pakistani investigation team to the air base after the attack and shared the evidence of Pakistan based terror group's role in the attack. Islamabad was also reminded that no credible steps have been taken against United Nations-listed and Pakistan based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad despite a detailed dossier having been shared after Pulwama attack. J-e-Mo was the group behind the Pulwama terror attack and 2016 Pathankote attack.

India asks Pakistan to take credible steps against JeM; expedite 26/11 trial, Pathankot probe

Absconding Indian billionare Nirav Modi arrested in London

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror.

Speaking at the 80th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Gurugram, where he was the chief guest, Doval said, "India will continue to act against terrorism and supporters of terrorist and the time and location will be decided by the leadership".

Paying homage to the CRPF security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, Doval said, "the country will never forget the sacrifices made by them".

Pakistan-based, United Nations-listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the Pulwama attack which is being described as the worst on Indian security personnel in the last 2 decades. Over 40 CRPF personnel died in the terror attack.

This is the first time Doval spoke at a public event since the Pulwama terror attack. There wasn't any cultural programme at the Raising Day celebrations this time as a mark of respect to the Pulwama martyrs.

Since the Pulwama attack, India has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status from Pakistan, increasing customs duty on Pak goods by 200 per cent. India also carried out a non-military, counter-terror strike on JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan. 
&nbsp;

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror.

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror. Speaking at the 80th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Gurugram, where he was the chief guest, Doval said, "India will continue to act against terrorism and supporters of terrorist and the time and location will be decided by the leadership". Paying homage to the CRPF security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, Doval said, "the country will never forget the sacrifices made by them". Pakistan-based, United Nations-listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the Pulwama attack which is being described as the worst on Indian security personnel in the last 2 decades. Over 40 CRPF personnel died in the terror attack. This is the first time Doval spoke at a public event since the Pulwama terror attack. There wasn't any cultural programme at the Raising Day celebrations this time as a mark of respect to the Pulwama martyrs. Since the Pulwama attack, India has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status from Pakistan, increasing customs duty on Pak goods by 200 per cent. India also carried out a non-military, counter-terror strike on JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan.

NSA Doval talks tough with Pakistan, says India will continue acting against terrorism and its supporters 

In a rare acknowledgement, China Monday described the 2008 Mumbai attacks carried out by Pakistan-based LeT terror outfit as one of "the most notorious terrorist attacks".

In a white paper on its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-nearly-13000-terrorists-arrested-in-xinjiang-204016">massive crackdown against militants</a> in the restive Xinjiang province, China said the global spread of terrorism and extremism over the years had inflicted agony on humanity.

The paper described the Mumbai terror attacks as one of "the most notorious terrorist attacks", adding that the "global spread of terrorism and extremism over the years has inflicted agony on humanity".

The release of the paper titled "The Fight Against Terrorism and Extremism and Human Rights Protection in Xinjiang", interestingly coincided with Pakistan Foreign Minister's Shah Mehmood <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regional-tensions-to-be-discussed-during-talks-with-pakistan-foreign-minister-qureshi-china-204052">Qureshi's visit to China</a>.

Throughout the world, terrorism and extremism gravely threaten peace and development, and endanger the life and property of individuals, said the white paper released by China's State Council Information Office.

The paper came days after China for the fourth time blocked a bid in the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday to designate Pakistan-based chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group Masood Azhar as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal, a move India termed as disappointing.

The JeM has claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama attack that left more than 40 CRPF personnel dead and escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

"Striking aggressively at terrorism and furthering the de-radicalisation effort is the common responsibility of the international community and essential to the protection of human rights," it said.

China opposes all forms of terrorism and extremism and opposes double standards on fighting terrorism, said the white paper, adding that Beijing opposes linking terrorism and extremism with specific countries, ethnic groups or religions.

China advocates comprehensive measures to address both the symptoms and the root causes, with the dual purposes of striking at terrorist activities and eliminating poverty, so that there will be no room for terrorism to breed, it said.

In one of the most horrific terrorist attacks in the country's history, 166 people, including Americans, were killed and over 300 injured as 10 heavily-armed terrorists from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) created mayhem in Mumbai on November 26, 2008.

Nine of the attackers were killed by police while lone survivor Ajmal Kasab was captured and hanged after handed down death sentence by an Indian court.

Perpetrators of the 26/11 attack, including its mastermind and banned Jamat-ud Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed, continue to roam freely in Pakistan.

The US has offered a $10 million reward for information that brings Saeed to justice.

In a rare acknowledgement, China Monday described the 2008 Mumbai attacks carried out by Pakistan-based LeT terror outfit as one of "the most notorious terrorist attacks".

In a rare acknowledgement, China Monday described the 2008 Mumbai attacks carried out by Pakistan-based LeT terror outfit as one of "the most notorious terrorist attacks". In a white paper on its massive crackdown against militants in the restive Xinjiang province, China said the global spread of terrorism and extremism over the years had inflicted agony on humanity. The paper described the Mumbai terror attacks as one of "the most notorious terrorist attacks", adding that the "global spread of terrorism and extremism over the years has inflicted agony on humanity". The release of the paper titled "The Fight Against Terrorism and Extremism and Human Rights Protection in Xinjiang", interestingly coincided with Pakistan Foreign Minister's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to China. Throughout the world, terrorism and extremism gravely threaten peace and development, and endanger the life and property of individuals, said the white paper released by China's State Council Information Office. The paper came days after China for the fourth time blocked a bid in the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday to designate Pakistan-based chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group Masood Azhar as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal, a move India termed as disappointing. The JeM has claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama attack that left more than 40 CRPF personnel dead and escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. "Striking aggressively at terrorism and furthering the de-radicalisation effort is the common responsibility of the international community and essential to the protection of human rights," it said. China opposes all forms of terrorism and extremism and opposes double standards on fighting terrorism, said the white paper, adding that Beijing opposes linking terrorism and extremism with specific countries, ethnic groups or religions. China advocates comprehensive measures to address both the symptoms and the root causes, with the dual purposes of striking at terrorist activities and eliminating poverty, so that there will be no room for terrorism to breed, it said. In one of the most horrific terrorist attacks in the country's history, 166 people, including Americans, were killed and over 300 injured as 10 heavily-armed terrorists from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) created mayhem in Mumbai on November 26, 2008. Nine of the attackers were killed by police while lone survivor Ajmal Kasab was captured and hanged after handed down death sentence by an Indian court. Perpetrators of the 26/11 attack, including its mastermind and banned Jamat-ud Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed, continue to roam freely in Pakistan. The US has offered a $10 million reward for information that brings Saeed to justice.

China says 26/11 one of the 'most notorious' terrorist attacks

Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev, has said that Moscow is supportive of India in the recent India-Pak tensions in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Kudashev said Moscow is "most supportive of the Indian position upon the issue. On the issue of the recent flare-up. The recent attack of international terror."

"There is a large understanding of the global issue (between Russia and India). First and foremost on countering terror and terrorism, countering drugs and crime, there is a lot of understandings on other issues like regional development, a regional architecture for security and co-operation," Nikolay Kudashev added.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin and PM Modi have spoken two times this year. In his conversation with PM Modi on February 27, Putin expressed his deep condolences on the Pulwama terrorist attack and conveyed solidarity of the people of Russia with the people of India in the fight against terrorism.

Calling India "a great friend and a privileged strategic partner," the Russian envoy said ties between both the countries are "extremely close" and "very special".

He also told WION that the next India-Russia informal summit will take place this year "possibly in India." Last year, PM Modi and Putin meet in Sochi, Russia for an informal summit.

Later the Ambassador, speaking at an event in Delhi, also observed a minute of silence in the memory of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-and-times-of-manohar-parrikar-203926#parrikars-early-life-203917">former Goa CM Manohar Parrikar</a> and called him "a great statesman, a daring visionary, and a true friend of Russia", one who contributed "enormously to enhancing Russia India relationship".

Prime Minister Modi has been invited to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok later this year. Over 60 per cent of Indian defence equipment is of Russian origin. Last year, New Delhi approved the S-400 missile deal with the country despite Washington's hopes that India will not go ahead with the deal.&nbsp;

Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev, has said that Moscow is supportive of India in the recent India-Pak tensions in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

Russian Ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev, has said that Moscow is supportive of India in the recent India-Pak tensions in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel. Speaking exclusively to WION, Kudashev said Moscow is "most supportive of the Indian position upon the issue. On the issue of the recent flare-up. The recent attack of international terror." "There is a large understanding of the global issue (between Russia and India). First and foremost on countering terror and terrorism, countering drugs and crime, there is a lot of understandings on other issues like regional development, a regional architecture for security and co-operation," Nikolay Kudashev added. Russian President Vladimir Putin and PM Modi have spoken two times this year. In his conversation with PM Modi on February 27, Putin expressed his deep condolences on the Pulwama terrorist attack and conveyed solidarity of the people of Russia with the people of India in the fight against terrorism. Calling India "a great friend and a privileged strategic partner," the Russian envoy said ties between both the countries are "extremely close" and "very special". He also told WION that the next India-Russia informal summit will take place this year "possibly in India." Last year, PM Modi and Putin meet in Sochi, Russia for an informal summit. Later the Ambassador, speaking at an event in Delhi, also observed a minute of silence in the memory of former Goa CM Manohar Parrikar and called him "a great statesman, a daring visionary, and a true friend of Russia", one who contributed "enormously to enhancing Russia India relationship". Prime Minister Modi has been invited to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok later this year. Over 60 per cent of Indian defence equipment is of Russian origin. Last year, New Delhi approved the S-400 missile deal with the country despite Washington's hopes that India will not go ahead with the deal.

Russian envoy reiterates support to India over tensions with Pak, calls Parrikar daring visionary

Ready for talks with India over Kartarpur and terrorism: Pakistan

China played a "constructive role" in reducing tension between Pakistan and India, the foreign ministry said after the nuclear-armed rivals almost came to blows last month following an attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama.

The sparring threatened to spiral out of control and only interventions by US&nbsp;officials, including National Security Adviser John Bolton, headed off a bigger conflict, five sources familiar with the events have told Reuters.

At one stage, India threatened to fire at least six missiles at Pakistan, and Islamabad said it would respond with its own missile strikes "three times over", said Western diplomats and government sources in New Delhi, Islamabad and Washington.

A Pakistani minister said China and the United Arab Emirates also intervened to lessen tension between the South Asian neighbours.

In a faxed statement to Reuters late on Monday, responding to a question on China's role in reining in the crisis, its foreign ministry said peaceful coexistence between Pakistan and India was in everyone's interest.

"As a friendly neighbour of both India and Pakistan, China pro-actively promoted peace talks and played a constructive role in easing the tense situation," it said.

"Some other countries also made positive efforts in this regard," the ministry added.

China is willing to work with the international community to continue to encourage the neighbours to meet each other halfway and use dialogue and peaceful means to resolve differences, it said, without elaborating.

The Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, is set to meet Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Beijing later on Tuesday.

The February&nbsp;14 attack that killed at over 40 paramilitary police was the deadliest in Kashmir's 30-year-long insurgency, escalating tension between the neighbours, who said they shot down each other's fighter jets late last month.

China and Pakistan call each other "all-weather" friends, but China has also been trying to improve ties with New Delhi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held an informal summit in China last year agreeing to reset relations, and Xi is expected to visit India sometime this year, diplomatic sources say.

China played a "constructive role" in reducing tension between Pakistan and India, the foreign ministry said after the nuclear-armed rivals almost came to blows last month following an attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama.

China played a "constructive role" in reducing tension between Pakistan and India, the foreign ministry said after the nuclear-armed rivals almost came to blows last month following an attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. The sparring threatened to spiral out of control and only interventions by US officials, including National Security Adviser John Bolton, headed off a bigger conflict, five sources familiar with the events have told Reuters. At one stage, India threatened to fire at least six missiles at Pakistan, and Islamabad said it would respond with its own missile strikes "three times over", said Western diplomats and government sources in New Delhi, Islamabad and Washington. A Pakistani minister said China and the United Arab Emirates also intervened to lessen tension between the South Asian neighbours. In a faxed statement to Reuters late on Monday, responding to a question on China's role in reining in the crisis, its foreign ministry said peaceful coexistence between Pakistan and India was in everyone's interest. "As a friendly neighbour of both India and Pakistan, China pro-actively promoted peace talks and played a constructive role in easing the tense situation," it said. "Some other countries also made positive efforts in this regard," the ministry added. China is willing to work with the international community to continue to encourage the neighbours to meet each other halfway and use dialogue and peaceful means to resolve differences, it said, without elaborating. The Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, is set to meet Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Beijing later on Tuesday. The February 14 attack that killed at over 40 paramilitary police was the deadliest in Kashmir's 30-year-long insurgency, escalating tension between the neighbours, who said they shot down each other's fighter jets late last month. China and Pakistan call each other "all-weather" friends, but China has also been trying to improve ties with New Delhi. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held an informal summit in China last year agreeing to reset relations, and Xi is expected to visit India sometime this year, diplomatic sources say.

China says played 'constructive role' in reducing India, Pakistan tension

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-at-several-locations-in-hollands-utrecht-city-counter-terrorism-agency-204108">Shooting at several locations in Holland's Utrecht city: Counter-terrorism agency</a>

Head of Dutch counter-terrorism agency said that shooting was taking place at "several" locations at Utrecht city in Holland, Reuters reported after a gunman opened fire at a tram on Monday morning.

Police quickly moved in to cordon off the area even as a government spokesman said one person was killed in the attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regional-tensions-to-be-discussed-during-talks-with-pakistan-foreign-minister-qureshi-china-204052">Regional tensions to be discussed during talks with Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi: China</a>

China said on Monday that tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terrorist attack would figure in the first strategic dialogue between foreign minister Wang Yi and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-summons-australian-foreign-minister-over-senators-remark-204048">Indonesia summons Australian foreign minister over Senator's remark</a>

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an Australian senator blamed last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-manohar-parrikar-in-goa-204051">PM Modi pays tribute to Manohar Parrikar in Goa</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar, who died of pancreatic cancer on Sunday.

After arriving in the coastal state, Modi reached the Kala Academy in Panaji where he paid his last respect to the 63-year-old senior leader. He met Parrikar's family members and offered his condolences to them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/acid-attack-uncivilised-heartless-crime-does-not-deserve-any-clemency-supreme-court-204079">Acid attack 'uncivilised &amp; heartless crime', does not deserve any clemency: Supreme Court</a>

The Supreme Court has said that acid attack is an "uncivilised and heartless crime" which does not deserve any clemency.

The apex court observed this while asking two convicts, who have already undergone five-year jail for throwing acid on a 19-year-old girl in 2004, to pay Rs 1.5 lakh each as additional compensation to the victim.

Shooting at several locations in Holland's Utrecht city: Counter-terrorism agency Head of Dutch counter-terrorism agency said that shooting was taking place at "several" locations at Utrecht city in Holland, Reuters reported after a gunman opened fire at a tram on Monday morning.

Shooting at several locations in Holland's Utrecht city: Counter-terrorism agency Head of Dutch counter-terrorism agency said that shooting was taking place at "several" locations at Utrecht city in Holland, Reuters reported after a gunman opened fire at a tram on Monday morning. Police quickly moved in to cordon off the area even as a government spokesman said one person was killed in the attack. Regional tensions to be discussed during talks with Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi: China China said on Monday that tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terrorist attack would figure in the first strategic dialogue between foreign minister Wang Yi and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday. Indonesia summons Australian foreign minister over Senator's remark Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an Australian senator blamed last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration. PM Modi pays tribute to Manohar Parrikar in Goa Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar, who died of pancreatic cancer on Sunday. After arriving in the coastal state, Modi reached the Kala Academy in Panaji where he paid his last respect to the 63-year-old senior leader. He met Parrikar's family members and offered his condolences to them. Acid attack 'uncivilised & heartless crime', does not deserve any clemency: Supreme Court The Supreme Court has said that acid attack is an "uncivilised and heartless crime" which does not deserve any clemency. The apex court observed this while asking two convicts, who have already undergone five-year jail for throwing acid on a 19-year-old girl in 2004, to pay Rs 1.5 lakh each as additional compensation to the victim.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their ties with Male emphasising its 'India First'&nbsp;policy. New Delhi, on the other&nbsp;hand, reiterated its commitment to the Indian Ocean island nation.

The Maldives also requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium which New Delhi is looking into. India recently gifted LED bulbs and LED street lights for the city of Malé.&nbsp;

Remember, External Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-sushma-swaraj-reviews-bilateral-issues-with-maldivian-counterpart-203886">Sushma Swaraj is on a 2-day trip to the Maldives</a>. This is the first full-fledged bilateral visit at the political level from India after Maldives' new government took office in November 2018.&nbsp;

In a joint statement, Maldives' foreign minister Abdulla Shahid "reiterated his Government’s India-First Policy and said that his government looks forward to working closely with the Government of India on all issues."

Maldives government also said that the country would remain sensitive towards India’s security and strategic concerns.&nbsp;

India said that it attaches the "highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives, which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding, and sensitivity."

External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj, said that in line with the "Government of India’s 'neighbourhood first' policy, India stands ready to fully support the Government of the Maldives in its socio-economic development."

Both sides have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region and strengthening coordination in enhancing regional maritime security.&nbsp;

The Maldives is a key country in the Indian Ocean region and lies in the heart of busy shipping lanes connecting Africa and Asia.

The Maldives has also announced that it will provide land in Hulhumalé Island in the north Maldives for the Indian Embassy. Male has also expressed support to India's candidature for the permanent membership of the UN Security Council and for a non-permanent seat for the year 2020-21.&nbsp;

During Swaraj's visit, three agreements were signed - Exemption from Visa Requirement for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports, Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects and Collaboration in the Field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.&nbsp;

PM Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the Maldives last year. After assuming office, Solih had visited New Delhi.&nbsp;

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their ties with Male emphasising its 'India First' policy. New Delhi, on the other hand, reiterated its commitment to the Indian Ocean island nation.

India and the Maldives have reaffirmed their ties with Male emphasising its 'India First' policy. New Delhi, on the other hand, reiterated its commitment to the Indian Ocean island nation. The Maldives also requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium which New Delhi is looking into. India recently gifted LED bulbs and LED street lights for the city of Malé. Remember, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is on a 2-day trip to the Maldives. This is the first full-fledged bilateral visit at the political level from India after Maldives' new government took office in November 2018. In a joint statement, Maldives' foreign minister Abdulla Shahid "reiterated his Government’s India-First Policy and said that his government looks forward to working closely with the Government of India on all issues." Maldives government also said that the country would remain sensitive towards India’s security and strategic concerns. India said that it attaches the "highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives, which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding, and sensitivity." External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj, said that in line with the "Government of India’s 'neighbourhood first' policy, India stands ready to fully support the Government of the Maldives in its socio-economic development." Both sides have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region and strengthening coordination in enhancing regional maritime security. The Maldives is a key country in the Indian Ocean region and lies in the heart of busy shipping lanes connecting Africa and Asia. The Maldives has also announced that it will provide land in Hulhumalé Island in the north Maldives for the Indian Embassy. Male has also expressed support to India's candidature for the permanent membership of the UN Security Council and for a non-permanent seat for the year 2020-21. During Swaraj's visit, three agreements were signed - Exemption from Visa Requirement for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports, Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects and Collaboration in the Field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. PM Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the Maldives last year. After assuming office, Solih had visited New Delhi.

Maldives requests India to construct cricket stadium; New Delhi, Male reaffirm ties

Asia-Pacific private equity (PE) continued to set new highs for the industry in 2018 but investors should expect tougher times ahead.

This according to a recently released report on the PE market by global management consultancy, Bain and Company.

In 2018, deals values hit record highs together with exit values but fund-raising declined.

Leading the way in Asia-Pacific deal-making are China and India, which accounted for 75 per cent of the total deal value in the region.&nbsp;

Asia-Pacific deal value rose to $165 billion in 2018, exceeding the all-time high of $159 billion of a year earlier and 48 per cent greater than the 2013- 17 average.

China saw a staggering $94 billion of total private equity investment value last year, up 64 per cent over the previous five-year average.&nbsp;

However, it`s important to note that China's private equity market consists of two markets which operate very differently - one for transactions in renminbi which is almost entirely exclusive to domestic funds and one in foreign currencies.

The powerful momentum of previous years lifted the Asia-Pacific private equity industry setting new records in deal value and exit value making an impact in the overall deals done globally.&nbsp;

With $883 billion in total assets under management, Asia-Pacific now represents 26 per cent of the global PE market, up from only 9 per cent just a decade ago.&nbsp;

As General Partners (GPs), compete for deals against corporate players, increasingly they are winning. (A GP is the entity that manages the fund.)&nbsp;

Private equity's share of the Asia-Pacific M&amp;A market rose 6 percentage points to 17 per cent in 2018, from the previous five-year average of 11 per cent. Despite higher deal values, exit values and increasing M&amp;A market share, overall fundraising in Asia-Pacific was sharp lower declining more than 50 per cent to $75 billion, after a record high in 2017, Bain said in its report.&nbsp;

<img alt="Asia-Pacific Private Equity" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74abe78d-c914-42b2-b68a-928d738f9657" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Asian%20equity.jpg" />

The report further added that the strength of previous years masked three disconcerting market developments that could affect investment activity and returns in the coming year. First, US-China trade tensions have increased the risk of macroeconomic disruption in China and across the region.&nbsp;

Secondly, deal prices have remained high while interest rates are rising steadily after a period of decline, a trend that will increase the cost of funding and could put a brake on future multiple expansion.&nbsp;

Third, and perhaps most telling, the region's private equity market has become sharply polarized between large funds with strong track records that dominate activity across the region, and smaller, less experienced funds that are having difficulty raising funds and exiting. These economic and market trends could slow the revenue growth and multiple expansion that powered Asia-Pacific PE returns in recent years.&nbsp;

In past recessions, the PE market has outperformed other asset classes. But if recession strikes, vulnerable and less differentiated funds are likely to disproportionately bear the brunt of the downturn. There is a growing acute divide between winners and losers that became more evident in 2018. This could impact a significant number of funds especially smaller funds with smaller deals in the coming year. To win even in a tougher market, many will have to work hard to raise their game.&nbsp;

Thirty-two mega deals (USD 1 billion or more in value) pushed the average deal size to $151 million, on par with last year and up 27 per cent over the previous five-year average of $119 million. These mega deals made up 39 per cent of deal value, compared with an average 33 per cent over the last five years. A critical factor in PE investing is a successful exit strategy. In an exit, the PE firms leave an investment position by selling a stake in a company in which it`s invested.&nbsp;

In this regards, although exit values set new records, the total number of exits declined sharply, and large exits dominated the year`s results. The report added that large, experienced PE-owned companies racked up the vast majority of successful exits and dominated total exit value, while smaller companies had increasing difficulty finding buyers.&nbsp;

For example, Bain said, exits involving companies sold for under USD 100 million dropped 58 per cent last year, while those in excess of USD 500 million increased 26 per cent. Kiki Yang, Bain`s co-head of Asia Pacific private equity and co-author of the report, said in an accompanying release that "we're seeing warning signs that suggest the party may be coming to an end, at least for some investors ..... with the risk of global recession and other macro-economic challenges, we expect the market for exits will only get tougher.

"Looking forward, three important themes are playing an increasing role in the Asia-Pacific private equity market: the rush to invest in China tech and Internet companies; the use of advanced analytics as a tool to improve fund performance; and a shift toward environmental, social and governance (ESG) and impact investing. It warned however that PE investors are increasingly cautious with China`s Internet-based "new economy" that may be a speculative bubble waiting to burst. The report continued, "The huge volume of private equity and venture capital flowing into China's new economy has oversaturated the lower end of the market, prompting investors to seek larger investments."

With trends suggesting that the PE market is beginning to differentiate better-established funds as well as with the gathering macroeconomic uncertainty, revenue growth and multiple expansions in the Asia-Pacific PE market is expected to decline. Less differentiated and smaller funds are the most vulnerable and would be disproportionately affected.&nbsp;

Asia-Pacific private equity (PE) continued to set new highs for the industry in 2018 but investors should expect tougher times ahead. This according to a recently released report on the PE market by global management consultancy, Bain and Company.

Asia-Pacific private equity (PE) continued to set new highs for the industry in 2018 but investors should expect tougher times ahead. This according to a recently released report on the PE market by global management consultancy, Bain and Company. In 2018, deals values hit record highs together with exit values but fund-raising declined. Leading the way in Asia-Pacific deal-making are China and India, which accounted for 75 per cent of the total deal value in the region. Asia-Pacific deal value rose to $165 billion in 2018, exceeding the all-time high of $159 billion of a year earlier and 48 per cent greater than the 2013- 17 average. China saw a staggering $94 billion of total private equity investment value last year, up 64 per cent over the previous five-year average. However, it`s important to note that China's private equity market consists of two markets which operate very differently - one for transactions in renminbi which is almost entirely exclusive to domestic funds and one in foreign currencies. The powerful momentum of previous years lifted the Asia-Pacific private equity industry setting new records in deal value and exit value making an impact in the overall deals done globally. With $883 billion in total assets under management, Asia-Pacific now represents 26 per cent of the global PE market, up from only 9 per cent just a decade ago. As General Partners (GPs), compete for deals against corporate players, increasingly they are winning. (A GP is the entity that manages the fund.) Private equity's share of the Asia-Pacific M&A market rose 6 percentage points to 17 per cent in 2018, from the previous five-year average of 11 per cent. Despite higher deal values, exit values and increasing M&A market share, overall fundraising in Asia-Pacific was sharp lower declining more than 50 per cent to $75 billion, after a record high in 2017, Bain said in its report. The report further added that the strength of previous years masked three disconcerting market developments that could affect investment activity and returns in the coming year. First, US-China trade tensions have increased the risk of macroeconomic disruption in China and across the region. Secondly, deal prices have remained high while interest rates are rising steadily after a period of decline, a trend that will increase the cost of funding and could put a brake on future multiple expansion. Third, and perhaps most telling, the region's private equity market has become sharply polarized between large funds with strong track records that dominate activity across the region, and smaller, less experienced funds that are having difficulty raising funds and exiting. These economic and market trends could slow the revenue growth and multiple expansion that powered Asia-Pacific PE returns in recent years. In past recessions, the PE market has outperformed other asset classes. But if recession strikes, vulnerable and less differentiated funds are likely to disproportionately bear the brunt of the downturn. There is a growing acute divide between winners and losers that became more evident in 2018. This could impact a significant number of funds especially smaller funds with smaller deals in the coming year. To win even in a tougher market, many will have to work hard to raise their game. Thirty-two mega deals (USD 1 billion or more in value) pushed the average deal size to $151 million, on par with last year and up 27 per cent over the previous five-year average of $119 million. These mega deals made up 39 per cent of deal value, compared with an average 33 per cent over the last five years. A critical factor in PE investing is a successful exit strategy. In an exit, the PE firms leave an investment position by selling a stake in a company in which it`s invested. In this regards, although exit values set new records, the total number of exits declined sharply, and large exits dominated the year`s results. The report added that large, experienced PE-owned companies racked up the vast majority of successful exits and dominated total exit value, while smaller companies had increasing difficulty finding buyers. For example, Bain said, exits involving companies sold for under USD 100 million dropped 58 per cent last year, while those in excess of USD 500 million increased 26 per cent. Kiki Yang, Bain`s co-head of Asia Pacific private equity and co-author of the report, said in an accompanying release that "we're seeing warning signs that suggest the party may be coming to an end, at least for some investors ..... with the risk of global recession and other macro-economic challenges, we expect the market for exits will only get tougher. "Looking forward, three important themes are playing an increasing role in the Asia-Pacific private equity market: the rush to invest in China tech and Internet companies; the use of advanced analytics as a tool to improve fund performance; and a shift toward environmental, social and governance (ESG) and impact investing. It warned however that PE investors are increasingly cautious with China`s Internet-based "new economy" that may be a speculative bubble waiting to burst. The report continued, "The huge volume of private equity and venture capital flowing into China's new economy has oversaturated the lower end of the market, prompting investors to seek larger investments." With trends suggesting that the PE market is beginning to differentiate better-established funds as well as with the gathering macroeconomic uncertainty, revenue growth and multiple expansions in the Asia-Pacific PE market is expected to decline. Less differentiated and smaller funds are the most vulnerable and would be disproportionately affected.

Asia-Pacific private equity: India and China lead deals but fund-raising slowing

China's ambassador to India said Sunday that the matter of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a global terrorist "will be resolved". He added that "this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations".&nbsp;

Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui told reporters Sunday that the Chinese side "fully understands" the matter regarding Masood Azhar's listing and that it understands India’s concerns.

Zhaohui added that after last year's summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, China, the cooperation between the two countries "is on right track".&nbsp;

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Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui to ANI: This matter (Masood Azhar on UNSC 1267 list) will be resolved, this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations. It will be resolved believe me. <a href="https://t.co/vSFhDZB9mu">pic.twitter.com/vSFhDZB9mu</a>
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"We're satisfied with this cooperation and are optimistic about the future," the ambassador said during Holi celebrations at the Chinese Embassy in Delhi.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times last year starting with famous informal Wuhan summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of SCO, BRICS and G20.

Zhaohui's remarks come a day after India said, on Saturday, that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, will be listed as a global terrorist.&nbsp;

India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-show-patience-with-china-as-long-as-it-takes-india-on-blacklisting-masood-azhar-203687">India, on Saturday, expressed optimism</a> stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes".&nbsp;

China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made.

WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan.

A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul.

China's ambassador to India said Sunday that the matter of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a global terrorist "will be resolved". He added that "this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations".

China's ambassador to India said Sunday that the matter of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a global terrorist "will be resolved". He added that "this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations". Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui told reporters Sunday that the Chinese side "fully understands" the matter regarding Masood Azhar's listing and that it understands India’s concerns. Zhaohui added that after last year's summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, China, the cooperation between the two countries "is on right track". Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui to ANI: This matter (Masood Azhar on UNSC 1267 list) will be resolved, this is only a technical hold which means there is time for continued consultations. It will be resolved believe me. pic.twitter.com/vSFhDZB9mu — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2019 × "We're satisfied with this cooperation and are optimistic about the future," the ambassador said during Holi celebrations at the Chinese Embassy in Delhi. Indian Prime Minister and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times last year starting with famous informal Wuhan summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of SCO, BRICS and G20. Zhaohui's remarks come a day after India said, on Saturday, that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, will be listed as a global terrorist. India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations. India, on Saturday, expressed optimism stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes". China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made. WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan. A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul.

Masood Azhar 'issue will be resolved... this is only a technical hold': Chinese ambassador to India

China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama&nbsp;in February.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-defends-move-to-block-ban-on-jem-chief-masood-azhar-says-needs-time-to-conduct-thorough-probe-203277">China prevented a UN&nbsp;Security Council committee on Wednesday</a> from blacklisting JeM founder Masood Azhar.

India said it was disappointed at the block, which sparked calls for boycotts of Chinese products on domestic social media, while the United States said it was counter to a goal it shared with China of achieving regional peace and stability.

In a statement faxed to Reuters late on Friday, China's Foreign Ministry reiterated that the "technical hold" on the blacklisting was to give more time for the committee to have further consultations and study on the issue.

China hopes the committee's actions can "benefit reducing the tense situation and protect regional stability", the ministry said, responding to a Reuters question on the boycott calls in India.

"China is willing to strengthen communication with all parties, including India, to appropriately handle this issue," it added, without elaborating.

The United States, Britain and France had asked the Security Council's Islamic State and al Qaeda sanctions committee to subject Azhar to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze. The 15-member committee operates by consensus.

China had previously prevented the sanctions committee from sanctioning Azhar in 2016 and 2017.

The February 14 attack that killed over 40 paramilitary police was the deadliest in Kashmir's 30-year-long insurgency, escalating tension between India and Pakistan.

Western powers could also blacklist Azhar by adopting a Security Council resolution, which needs nine votes in favour and no vetoes by Russia, China, the United States, Britain or France.

Blacklisted by the UN&nbsp;Security Council in 2001, JeM is a primarily anti-India group that forged ties with al Qaeda.

China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in February.

China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in February. China prevented a UN Security Council committee on Wednesday from blacklisting JeM founder Masood Azhar. India said it was disappointed at the block, which sparked calls for boycotts of Chinese products on domestic social media, while the United States said it was counter to a goal it shared with China of achieving regional peace and stability. In a statement faxed to Reuters late on Friday, China's Foreign Ministry reiterated that the "technical hold" on the blacklisting was to give more time for the committee to have further consultations and study on the issue. China hopes the committee's actions can "benefit reducing the tense situation and protect regional stability", the ministry said, responding to a Reuters question on the boycott calls in India. "China is willing to strengthen communication with all parties, including India, to appropriately handle this issue," it added, without elaborating. The United States, Britain and France had asked the Security Council's Islamic State and al Qaeda sanctions committee to subject Azhar to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze. The 15-member committee operates by consensus. China had previously prevented the sanctions committee from sanctioning Azhar in 2016 and 2017. The February 14 attack that killed over 40 paramilitary police was the deadliest in Kashmir's 30-year-long insurgency, escalating tension between India and Pakistan. Western powers could also blacklist Azhar by adopting a Security Council resolution, which needs nine votes in favour and no vetoes by Russia, China, the United States, Britain or France. Blacklisted by the UN Security Council in 2001, JeM is a primarily anti-India group that forged ties with al Qaeda.

Willing to hold more talks with India on blacklisting Masood Azhar: China

India has said that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, will be listed as a global terrorist. India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations.

Three days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-defends-move-to-block-ban-on-jem-chief-masood-azhar-says-needs-time-to-conduct-thorough-probe-203277">China placed a "technical hold"</a> at the United Nations on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist, India has expressed optimism stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes".&nbsp;

India is encouraged by the fact that 14 out of 15 members of the UNSC backed the proposal which was introduced by US, UK and France in February end which shows Islamabad's isolation and its indictment on the issue of terror.

New Delhi has also clarified it will not be cutting any deal regarding Azhar's listing with any country as terror is a non-negotiable issue.&nbsp;

China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made.

WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan.

A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United States continues to support New Delhi. India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in Washington last week and met US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and US national security advisor John Bolton. India raised the issue of cross border terror emanating&nbsp;from Pakistan and its use of F16s in an offensive action against India on February 27.&nbsp;

The US has taken note of India's concerns and agreed to seriously look into the matter. New Delhi hopes the US will soon go public with Pakistan's use of F16s and AMRAAM missiles against India. The US pointed out that the weapon system was given to Pakistan at an earlier period in their ties.

The US appreciated the fact that India kept them informed in real time during New Delhi's counter-terror efforts and Pakistan's launch of military strikes.

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-hold-more-talks-with-india-on-blacklisting-masood-azhar-china-203655">China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions</a> with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in February.

India has said that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, will be listed as a global terrorist.

India has said that it is cautiously confident that eventually Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, will be listed as a global terrorist. India continues to work with members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding his blacklisting under the United Nations. Three days after China placed a "technical hold" at the United Nations on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist, India has expressed optimism stating that it will continue to push for Azhar's blacklisting for "as long as it takes". India is encouraged by the fact that 14 out of 15 members of the UNSC backed the proposal which was introduced by US, UK and France in February end which shows Islamabad's isolation and its indictment on the issue of terror. New Delhi has also clarified it will not be cutting any deal regarding Azhar's listing with any country as terror is a non-negotiable issue. China has been blocking the listing of Azhar as a terrorist since 2009 and last week put a hold on his listing again for the fourth time. The hold continues for 9 months before which a decision on the JeM chief's blacklisting has to be made. WION has learnt that New Delhi is willing to give more time to Beijing and is in touch with it. New Delhi said that China understands that terror remains a major challenge and that there are a number of terror groups located in Pakistan. A government source told WION that India will wait patiently and will not rest until Azhar is listed, adding that New Delhi is prepared for a long haul. Meanwhile, the United States continues to support New Delhi. India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in Washington last week and met US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and US national security advisor John Bolton. India raised the issue of cross border terror emanating from Pakistan and its use of F16s in an offensive action against India on February 27. The US has taken note of India's concerns and agreed to seriously look into the matter. New Delhi hopes the US will soon go public with Pakistan's use of F16s and AMRAAM missiles against India. The US pointed out that the weapon system was given to Pakistan at an earlier period in their ties. The US appreciated the fact that India kept them informed in real time during New Delhi's counter-terror efforts and Pakistan's launch of military strikes. Meanwhile, China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in February.

Will show patience with China 'as long as it takes': India on blacklisting Masood Azhar

India has said Pakistan had very narrow focus during the first round of Kartarpur talks which took place on February 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagha border. New Delhi has expressed its disappointment at Pakistan's proposal of paid pilgrimage to visit Kartarpur corridor.

In response to the Indian proposal of allowing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-hype-on-kartarpur-pakistan-wants-restrictions-on-movement-of-pilgrims-203613">5,000 pilgrims per day for visit to corridor</a>, which New Delhi wants to be open on all seven days, Pakistan has said it can only allow 700 pilgrims in a batch of 15 on a designated day by getting a paid permit.

Sources told WION that the initial announcement made by PM Imran Khan gave an impression that this was a generous, open-ended offer but the perceived generosity was not matched by the discussions in the recent meeting.&nbsp;

The next round of Karatrpur talks will take place on April 2 in Wagah.

Reacting to a query on 'referendum 2020' by Khalistani groups based in Pakistan, US and UK, a government source told WION that India has conveyed to foreign governments that their citizens talking about a referendum in another country amounts to interfering in the internal affair of another country.&nbsp;

India maintained that the issue is raised by a very small part of the Sikh community and the noise made by them does not represent the view of the entire community.

Pakistan has been indulging in Khalistani propaganda. The source, while speaking to WION, highlighted the fact that Khalistani Gopal Chawla was present at Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking inaugural ceremony in November 2018 in Pakistan.

Gopal Singh Chawla has had a very close relationship with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Chawla, on multiple occasions, has released videos threatening India with violence.

India has said Pakistan had very narrow focus during the first round of Kartarpur talks which took place on February 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagha border.

India has said Pakistan had very narrow focus during the first round of Kartarpur talks which took place on February 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagha border. New Delhi has expressed its disappointment at Pakistan's proposal of paid pilgrimage to visit Kartarpur corridor. In response to the Indian proposal of allowing 5,000 pilgrims per day for visit to corridor, which New Delhi wants to be open on all seven days, Pakistan has said it can only allow 700 pilgrims in a batch of 15 on a designated day by getting a paid permit. Sources told WION that the initial announcement made by PM Imran Khan gave an impression that this was a generous, open-ended offer but the perceived generosity was not matched by the discussions in the recent meeting. The next round of Karatrpur talks will take place on April 2 in Wagah. Reacting to a query on 'referendum 2020' by Khalistani groups based in Pakistan, US and UK, a government source told WION that India has conveyed to foreign governments that their citizens talking about a referendum in another country amounts to interfering in the internal affair of another country. India maintained that the issue is raised by a very small part of the Sikh community and the noise made by them does not represent the view of the entire community. Pakistan has been indulging in Khalistani propaganda. The source, while speaking to WION, highlighted the fact that Khalistani Gopal Chawla was present at Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking inaugural ceremony in November 2018 in Pakistan. Gopal Singh Chawla has had a very close relationship with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Chawla, on multiple occasions, has released videos threatening India with violence.

Pakistan had limited, narrow focus during Kartarpur talks: India

At a time when tensions with Pakistan are heightened, the Defence Ministry is likely to consider a proposal to buy 10 lakh multi-mode hand grenades for the Indian Army under the 'Make in India' project in the military sector.

''A proposal for buying 10 lakh hand grenades from an Indian firm would be considered by the Defence Ministry at a high-level meeting to be chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman this week,'' government sources told ANI.

The more than Rs 500 crore proposal is critical as the government has already taken care of the main personal weapon requirements of the Army soldiers by signing two contracts for modern rifles.

In the first case, a contract worth over Rs 700 crore for around 75,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from an American firm has been signed while a joint venture has been formed with Russia to manufacture 7.5 lakh modern AK-203 assault rifles.

The project for acquiring new hand grenades is required for the replacement of the existing HE-36 grenades manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board.&nbsp;

The multi-mode grenades have been developed by the DRDO and a production agency has been selected to manufacture them in large numbers.&nbsp;

Hand grenades are among the few critical weapons that soldiers need in the time of war as they can be used to cause heavy&nbsp; 
damage to enemy positions or bunkers apart from taking out their soldiers.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been heightened after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.

India avenged the attack by striking the Balakot terrorist training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.

At a time when tensions with Pakistan are heightened, the Defence Ministry is likely to consider a proposal to buy 10 lakh multi-mode hand grenades for the Indian Army under the 'Make in India' project in the military sector.

At a time when tensions with Pakistan are heightened, the Defence Ministry is likely to consider a proposal to buy 10 lakh multi-mode hand grenades for the Indian Army under the 'Make in India' project in the military sector. ''A proposal for buying 10 lakh hand grenades from an Indian firm would be considered by the Defence Ministry at a high-level meeting to be chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman this week,'' government sources told ANI. The more than Rs 500 crore proposal is critical as the government has already taken care of the main personal weapon requirements of the Army soldiers by signing two contracts for modern rifles. In the first case, a contract worth over Rs 700 crore for around 75,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from an American firm has been signed while a joint venture has been formed with Russia to manufacture 7.5 lakh modern AK-203 assault rifles. The project for acquiring new hand grenades is required for the replacement of the existing HE-36 grenades manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board. The multi-mode grenades have been developed by the DRDO and a production agency has been selected to manufacture them in large numbers. Hand grenades are among the few critical weapons that soldiers need in the time of war as they can be used to cause heavy damage to enemy positions or bunkers apart from taking out their soldiers. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been heightened after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. India avenged the attack by striking the Balakot terrorist training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.

Defence Ministry plans to buy 10 lakh hand grenades for combat troops

A day after China blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar under United Nations terror list and opposition Congress lashed out at Centre, India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday in series of tweets claimed India got support from the global community for the move.

Sushma Swaraj highlighted how from 2009 to 2019 a growing number of countries backed India for the listing of Masood Azhar under the United Nations' security council's (UNSC) 1267 committee.

In 2009, India was the lone proposer while in 2016 India's proposal was co-sponsored by the UK, US and France and in 2017 US, UK and France moved the proposal. By 2019 proposal was moved the US, UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan and supported by 14 out 15 members of the UNSC, she said.

"In 2019, the proposal was moved by USA, France and UK and supported by 14 of the 15 UN Security Council Members and also co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan - non-members of the Security Council, " she said in a tweet. 
&nbsp; 
All four times China blocked the proposal but from 2009 to 2019 a growing number of countries agreed with New Delhi on the issue of terror and on the listing of Masood Azhar.

This development comes in the backdrop of Congress President Rahul Gandhi slamming the central government for not able to list Azhar despite PM Modi's claims of good ties with China which includes an informal Wuhan summit which saw PM Modi travelling to China to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Sushma Swaraj in a tweet said, "leaders who describe this as our diplomatic failure may see for themselves that in 2009, India was alone. In 2019, India had worldwide support."

Meanwhile, France has announced it will freeze the assets of Masood Azhar and will ask the European Union to include Azhar in the list of persons involved in terror attacks. 
&nbsp;

A day after China blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar under United Nations terror list and opposition Congress lashed out at Centre, India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday in series of tweets claimed India got support from the global community for the move.

A day after China blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar under United Nations terror list and opposition Congress lashed out at Centre, India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday in series of tweets claimed India got support from the global community for the move. Sushma Swaraj highlighted how from 2009 to 2019 a growing number of countries backed India for the listing of Masood Azhar under the United Nations' security council's (UNSC) 1267 committee. In 2009, India was the lone proposer while in 2016 India's proposal was co-sponsored by the UK, US and France and in 2017 US, UK and France moved the proposal. By 2019 proposal was moved the US, UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan and supported by 14 out 15 members of the UNSC, she said. "In 2019, the proposal was moved by USA, France and UK and supported by 14 of the 15 UN Security Council Members and also co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan - non-members of the Security Council, " she said in a tweet. All four times China blocked the proposal but from 2009 to 2019 a growing number of countries agreed with New Delhi on the issue of terror and on the listing of Masood Azhar. This development comes in the backdrop of Congress President Rahul Gandhi slamming the central government for not able to list Azhar despite PM Modi's claims of good ties with China which includes an informal Wuhan summit which saw PM Modi travelling to China to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. Sushma Swaraj in a tweet said, "leaders who describe this as our diplomatic failure may see for themselves that in 2009, India was alone. In 2019, India had worldwide support." Meanwhile, France has announced it will freeze the assets of Masood Azhar and will ask the European Union to include Azhar in the list of persons involved in terror attacks.

India had global support, says Sushma Swaraj on Masood Azhar listing 

Indian subsidiaries of US multinational corporations have a cause for cheer with the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) providing compliance relief for those whose parents are in countries which do not have an agreement with India.

The board has extended the due date for filing of country-by-country (CbC) reports by certain MNCs till March 31. So such Indian subsidiaries now have two more weeks to furnish their reports.

"The CBDT as a one-time measure in exercise of powers conferred under section 119 of the Act has extended the period for furnishing of the CbC report (local filing) in respect of reporting accounting years ending on or before February 28, 2018 up to March 31, 2019," said an official statement issued on Friday.

The concept of CbC reports, which gets electronically transmitted between competent authorities, was introduced to assist tax administration in having a complete understanding of the way in which MNCs structure their operations, by annually providing them with key information on the global allocation of incomes and taxes paid.

The absence of an agreement between India and the United States till now entailed a possibility of local filing of CbC reports in India.

However, a bilateral competent authority arrangement, along with an underlying inter-governmental agreement, for exchange of CbC reports between India and the United States has now been finalised and will be signed on or before March 31.

"This will enable both the countries to exchange CbC reports filed by the ultimate parent entities of international groups in the respective jurisdictions, pertaining to the financial years commencing on or after January 1, 2016," said the statement.

As a result, Indian constituent entities of international groups headquartered in the United States, who have already filed CbC reports in the United States, will not be required to do local filing of the CbC reports of their international groups in India, it said.

The objective of mandating CbC is to ensure that all relevant tax authorities have access to the same information about an MNC’s value chain and the resulting tax consequences.

Indian subsidiaries of US multinational corporations have a cause for cheer with the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) providing compliance relief for those whose parents are in countries which do not have an agreement with India.

Indian subsidiaries of US multinational corporations have a cause for cheer with the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) providing compliance relief for those whose parents are in countries which do not have an agreement with India. The board has extended the due date for filing of country-by-country (CbC) reports by certain MNCs till March 31. So such Indian subsidiaries now have two more weeks to furnish their reports. "The CBDT as a one-time measure in exercise of powers conferred under section 119 of the Act has extended the period for furnishing of the CbC report (local filing) in respect of reporting accounting years ending on or before February 28, 2018 up to March 31, 2019," said an official statement issued on Friday. The concept of CbC reports, which gets electronically transmitted between competent authorities, was introduced to assist tax administration in having a complete understanding of the way in which MNCs structure their operations, by annually providing them with key information on the global allocation of incomes and taxes paid. The absence of an agreement between India and the United States till now entailed a possibility of local filing of CbC reports in India. However, a bilateral competent authority arrangement, along with an underlying inter-governmental agreement, for exchange of CbC reports between India and the United States has now been finalised and will be signed on or before March 31. "This will enable both the countries to exchange CbC reports filed by the ultimate parent entities of international groups in the respective jurisdictions, pertaining to the financial years commencing on or after January 1, 2016," said the statement. As a result, Indian constituent entities of international groups headquartered in the United States, who have already filed CbC reports in the United States, will not be required to do local filing of the CbC reports of their international groups in India, it said. The objective of mandating CbC is to ensure that all relevant tax authorities have access to the same information about an MNC’s value chain and the resulting tax consequences.

India, US to sign pact for exchange of 'Country-by-Country' reports by March-end

Two days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/day-after-china-played-chequers-in-un-beijing-says-need-more-time-us-fumes-203375">China put a technical hold on the listing of JeM chief Masood Azhar</a> as a UN-listed terrorist, diplomatic sources say that Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is all set to disembark on a three-day bilateral trip to China starting March 17.

Qureshi, who will also hold deliberations over the ongoing India-Pak tensions, will meet his Chinese counterpart Wang Xi as part of the set of meetings he will be holding during his China trip.

Pakistan will be conducting “strategic consultations” with China, sources privy to the development told WION. Pak foreign minister Qureshi will be holding consultative rounds of “strategic consultations” on Monday and Tuesday after which he will be wrapping up his China tour and returning to Pakistan.

Qureshi is visiting China on the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Wang Xi. Both the countries will conduct bilateral talks and discuss the Afghan peace process among other issues.

Sources say that Qureshi will also apprise the Chinese side “on the ongoing crackdown against terror-linked elements that are currently ongoing in Pakistan”, as claimed by the Pak government.

It is likely that the matter Masood Azhar's listing would also come under the series of consultations and deliberations between China and Pakistan. China on Wednesday had put a technical hold on Masood Azhar's listing under the list of globally designated terrorists.

Azhar was named in the 53-pager Pulwama attack dossier sent by New Delhi to Islamabad, the dossier was handed over to the Pak Deputy High Commissioner on the February 27, a day after India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan’s Balakot which was aimed at eliminating a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp.

India carried out an airstrike in Pakistan in the early hours of February 26 to what it says was based on credible intelligence of a possibility to launch more attacks by JeM into India.

Two days after China put a technical hold on the listing of JeM chief Masood Azhar as a UN-listed terrorist, diplomatic sources say that Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is all set to disembark on a three-day bilateral trip to China starting March 17.

Two days after China put a technical hold on the listing of JeM chief Masood Azhar as a UN-listed terrorist, diplomatic sources say that Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is all set to disembark on a three-day bilateral trip to China starting March 17. Qureshi, who will also hold deliberations over the ongoing India-Pak tensions, will meet his Chinese counterpart Wang Xi as part of the set of meetings he will be holding during his China trip. Pakistan will be conducting “strategic consultations” with China, sources privy to the development told WION. Pak foreign minister Qureshi will be holding consultative rounds of “strategic consultations” on Monday and Tuesday after which he will be wrapping up his China tour and returning to Pakistan. Qureshi is visiting China on the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Wang Xi. Both the countries will conduct bilateral talks and discuss the Afghan peace process among other issues. Sources say that Qureshi will also apprise the Chinese side “on the ongoing crackdown against terror-linked elements that are currently ongoing in Pakistan”, as claimed by the Pak government. It is likely that the matter Masood Azhar's listing would also come under the series of consultations and deliberations between China and Pakistan. China on Wednesday had put a technical hold on Masood Azhar's listing under the list of globally designated terrorists. Azhar was named in the 53-pager Pulwama attack dossier sent by New Delhi to Islamabad, the dossier was handed over to the Pak Deputy High Commissioner on the February 27, a day after India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan’s Balakot which was aimed at eliminating a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp. India carried out an airstrike in Pakistan in the early hours of February 26 to what it says was based on credible intelligence of a possibility to launch more attacks by JeM into India.

After China bars Azhar’s listing, Pak foreign minister Qureshi to visit China this Sunday

India has successfully carried out the trial of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) being developed for infantry troops of the Indian Army.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the trial of the missile with two-three km strike range on Wednesday night in Rajasthan desert.

This was the fourth overall development trial of the MP-ATGM which is being developed for the infantry troops against the enemy tank regiments.

“Both the missiles hit their target with complete precision and all the desired mission objectives were met successfully,” DRDO officials said.&nbsp;

The missile has been tested at all ranges including maximum strike range which is around two-three kms.

The missile is critical for the Indian Army as it has a requirement for more than 50,000 of these anti-tank missiles. This comes after India on Tuesday successfully carried out the third trial of Pinaka guided missile at Pokharan range.

Two trials of Pinaka guided extended range rockets were conducted on Monday. Both the rockets hit their targets at 90-km range.

Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launching system developed by the DRDO, for the Indian Army with a range of around 40 km. To meet the emergency requirement of the Army, the Defence Ministry had recently cleared the acquisition of 5,000 Milan 2T ATGMs for the Force.&nbsp;

India has successfully carried out the trial of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) being developed for infantry troops of the Indian Army. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the trial of the missile with two-three km strike range on Wednesday night in Rajasthan desert.

India has successfully carried out the trial of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) being developed for infantry troops of the Indian Army. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the trial of the missile with two-three km strike range on Wednesday night in Rajasthan desert. This was the fourth overall development trial of the MP-ATGM which is being developed for the infantry troops against the enemy tank regiments. “Both the missiles hit their target with complete precision and all the desired mission objectives were met successfully,” DRDO officials said. The missile has been tested at all ranges including maximum strike range which is around two-three kms. The missile is critical for the Indian Army as it has a requirement for more than 50,000 of these anti-tank missiles. This comes after India on Tuesday successfully carried out the third trial of Pinaka guided missile at Pokharan range. Two trials of Pinaka guided extended range rockets were conducted on Monday. Both the rockets hit their targets at 90-km range. Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launching system developed by the DRDO, for the Indian Army with a range of around 40 km. To meet the emergency requirement of the Army, the Defence Ministry had recently cleared the acquisition of 5,000 Milan 2T ATGMs for the Force.

India successfully test fires Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday met senior officials of the Donald Trump administration in Washington&nbsp;and raised the issue of Pakistan supported terrorism and also exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related issues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-nsa-bolton-asks-pakistan-to-take-steps-against-jem-202755">American NSA John Bolton</a> met Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday.

“Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the US-India strategic partnership &amp; our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the US stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism,” Bolton said in a tweet.

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Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the U.S.-India strategic partnership &amp; our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the U.S. stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism. Official White House Photo by Keegan Barber. <a href="https://t.co/27MPOFniuK">pic.twitter.com/27MPOFniuK</a>
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1105982383583563776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, the US support came on a day China for the fourth time blocked a bid to get Jaish chief Masood Azhar designated a global terrorist by the UN Security Council.

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China put a technical hold on the move by the US, the UK and France, seeking “more time to examine” the proposal, a diplomat at the United Nations has said.

Post the Pulwama attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, Bolton and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have emerged as strong supporters of the India-US relationship.

“Both underlined the importance of Pakistan taking tangible and irreversible action against terrorist groups based in territories under its control and denial of a safe haven for these groups to launch cross -border attacks,” the Indian Embassy said in a readout of the meeting.

Gokhale's US trip was scheduled much before the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack, Mr Gokhale's meetings with Mr Pompeo and his counterparts are being considered significant.

(With inputs from PTI)

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday met senior officials of the Donald Trump administration in Washington and raised the issue of Pakistan supported terrorism and also exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related issues.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday met senior officials of the Donald Trump administration in Washington and raised the issue of Pakistan supported terrorism and also exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related issues. American NSA John Bolton met Vijay Gokhale on Wednesday. “Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the US-India strategic partnership & our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the US stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism,” Bolton said in a tweet. Met with Indian FS Gokhale to advance progress on the U.S.-India strategic partnership & our shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, as well as reiterate that the U.S. stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism. Official White House Photo by Keegan Barber. pic.twitter.com/27MPOFniuK — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) March 14, 2019 × However, the US support came on a day China for the fourth time blocked a bid to get Jaish chief Masood Azhar designated a global terrorist by the UN Security Council. × China put a technical hold on the move by the US, the UK and France, seeking “more time to examine” the proposal, a diplomat at the United Nations has said. Post the Pulwama attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, Bolton and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have emerged as strong supporters of the India-US relationship. “Both underlined the importance of Pakistan taking tangible and irreversible action against terrorist groups based in territories under its control and denial of a safe haven for these groups to launch cross -border attacks,” the Indian Embassy said in a readout of the meeting. Gokhale's US trip was scheduled much before the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack, Mr Gokhale's meetings with Mr Pompeo and his counterparts are being considered significant. (With inputs from PTI)

US stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism: American NSA John Bolton

Pakistan and India found themselves disagreeing on a number of issues when they sat down at the Attari border on Thursday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kartarpur-corridor-construction-in-full-swing-will-open-in-november-201710#india-to-hold-first-meeting-with-pakistan-201697">to discuss the Kartarpur corridor</a>. Islamabad said it wanted to allow in only 700 pilgrims a day. They also wanted the pilgrims to be allowed in only on designated days and to pay for their visit.

The Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary (PAI — Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) in the Ministry of External Affairs. Mittal had proposed that the corridor should be open to all Indian citizens as well as to people of Indian origin to which the Pakistani side, led by Dr Mohammad Faisal, spokesperson of Pakistan's&nbsp;Ministry of Foreign Affairs and DG, South Asia and SAARC, saying that the corridor would be open only to Indian citizens.

Initially, Islamabad had been agreeable to letting only Sikh pilgrims visit the Kartarpur gurudwara —&nbsp;a proposal New Delhi dismissed saying it was a secular country and that therefore, all its citizens should be allowed to visit. Pakistan relented, accepting the Indian proposal.

Islamabad dragged its feet on the number of pilgrims. India has proposed that 5,000 pilgrims be allowed to visit every day; 10,000 to 15,000 pilgrims be allowed to visit on special days such as Guru Purab and Baisakhi; and&nbsp;that the corridor be open all seven days. Islamabad replied that only 700 people would be allowed to visit&nbsp;and that too on designated visiting days.

While both parties agreed the corridor would be visa-free, the Pakistani side said Indian pilgrims would require a special permit and should pay for their visit.&nbsp;

Pakistan rejected Indian proposal that anyone can go individually or in a group with Islamabad saying they will allow only groups of 15. New Delhi had strongly taken travelling on foot which is an essential element of pilgrimage to which Islamabad was not keen.

Wion has learnt that area around the Karatrpur Gurudwara has been encroached by private people. Indian side asked for Pakistan to remove these encroachments immediately.

Pakistan and India found themselves disagreeing on a number of issues when they sat down at the Attari border on Thursday to discuss the Kartarpur corridor. Islamabad said it wanted to allow in only 700 pilgrims a day.

Pakistan and India found themselves disagreeing on a number of issues when they sat down at the Attari border on Thursday to discuss the Kartarpur corridor. Islamabad said it wanted to allow in only 700 pilgrims a day. They also wanted the pilgrims to be allowed in only on designated days and to pay for their visit. The Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary (PAI — Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) in the Ministry of External Affairs. Mittal had proposed that the corridor should be open to all Indian citizens as well as to people of Indian origin to which the Pakistani side, led by Dr Mohammad Faisal, spokesperson of Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and DG, South Asia and SAARC, saying that the corridor would be open only to Indian citizens. Initially, Islamabad had been agreeable to letting only Sikh pilgrims visit the Kartarpur gurudwara — a proposal New Delhi dismissed saying it was a secular country and that therefore, all its citizens should be allowed to visit. Pakistan relented, accepting the Indian proposal. Islamabad dragged its feet on the number of pilgrims. India has proposed that 5,000 pilgrims be allowed to visit every day; 10,000 to 15,000 pilgrims be allowed to visit on special days such as Guru Purab and Baisakhi; and that the corridor be open all seven days. Islamabad replied that only 700 people would be allowed to visit and that too on designated visiting days. While both parties agreed the corridor would be visa-free, the Pakistani side said Indian pilgrims would require a special permit and should pay for their visit. Pakistan rejected Indian proposal that anyone can go individually or in a group with Islamabad saying they will allow only groups of 15. New Delhi had strongly taken travelling on foot which is an essential element of pilgrimage to which Islamabad was not keen. Wion has learnt that area around the Karatrpur Gurudwara has been encroached by private people. Indian side asked for Pakistan to remove these encroachments immediately.

Kartarpur Corridor talks: Pakistan, India disagree on number of pilgrims to be allowed to visit

The first round of talks between Indian and Pakistani officials on the modalities of Kartarpur Corridor ended on Thursday with both sides now set to meet on April 2 on the Pakistani side of Wagah.

The meeting discussed the modalities and the draft agreement for facilitation of pilgrims using the Kartarpur Corridor.

A joint statement released said both sides held detailed and constructive discussions on various aspects and provisions of the proposed agreement and agreed to work towards expeditiously operationalising the Kartapur Sahib Corridor.

There will be a meeting of India and Pakistan technical experts on March 19, 2019 at the proposed zero points to finalize the alignment of the corridor.

Dr Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan delegation leader &amp; spokesperson of Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs after crossing over to Pakistan said," The meeting has been positive. We have been able to move forward as the atmosphere was conducive."

While the Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in MHA and Joint Secretary (PAI--Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) MEA, Deepak Mittal, the &nbsp;Pakistan Delegation was led by Director-General South Asia and SAARC Dr Mohammad Faisal along with officials from Pakistan's interior, law and religious affairs ministry.&nbsp;

18 member Pakistan delegation included Dr Fareha Bugti, director India at the Pakistani foreign ministry, Dilshad Ahmad, Joint Secretary, Pakistan's interior ministry, Tahir Ehsan, Joint Secretary, chairman, Evacuee Trust Property Board, which takes care of Hindu and Sikh shrines in Pakistan, Brig M Akhtar Khan, Deputy DG Pakistan Rangers and Col Nadeem Afzal , Project deputy director, Kartarpur corridor.

In November 2018, both India and Pakistan approved the building of the corridor.&nbsp;

The first round of talks between Indian and Pakistani officials on the modalities of Kartarpur Corridor ended on Thursday with both sides now set to meet on April 2 on the Pakistani side of Wagah.

The first round of talks between Indian and Pakistani officials on the modalities of Kartarpur Corridor ended on Thursday with both sides now set to meet on April 2 on the Pakistani side of Wagah. The meeting discussed the modalities and the draft agreement for facilitation of pilgrims using the Kartarpur Corridor. A joint statement released said both sides held detailed and constructive discussions on various aspects and provisions of the proposed agreement and agreed to work towards expeditiously operationalising the Kartapur Sahib Corridor. There will be a meeting of India and Pakistan technical experts on March 19, 2019 at the proposed zero points to finalize the alignment of the corridor. Dr Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan delegation leader & spokesperson of Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs after crossing over to Pakistan said," The meeting has been positive. We have been able to move forward as the atmosphere was conducive." While the Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in MHA and Joint Secretary (PAI--Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) MEA, Deepak Mittal, the Pakistan Delegation was led by Director-General South Asia and SAARC Dr Mohammad Faisal along with officials from Pakistan's interior, law and religious affairs ministry. 18 member Pakistan delegation included Dr Fareha Bugti, director India at the Pakistani foreign ministry, Dilshad Ahmad, Joint Secretary, Pakistan's interior ministry, Tahir Ehsan, Joint Secretary, chairman, Evacuee Trust Property Board, which takes care of Hindu and Sikh shrines in Pakistan, Brig M Akhtar Khan, Deputy DG Pakistan Rangers and Col Nadeem Afzal , Project deputy director, Kartarpur corridor. In November 2018, both India and Pakistan approved the building of the corridor.

India, Pakistan agree to work towards operationalising Kartarpur Corridor; second round of talks on April 2 

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