For India to arise, for Bharat to be resurgent, Kashmir must be reintegrated into India. It is a question of national security, national identity and throwing off outside interference. Otherwise, India's war of independence will continue at a proxy level with Pakistan and the numerous terrorist organisations allied with it.

India's national sentiment about Kashmir has shifted radically since the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, in which a Pakistan-supported Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide bomber took the lives of more than forty of India's paramilitary forces. India's change of mindset over Kashmir is irreversible and the old appeasement policy is no longer acceptable. A new national vision has arisen that wants a permanent solution to the problem.

The airstrike on terrorist bases in Balakot, Pakistan, on February 26 is a clear manifestation of this new policy and will be followed with similar strong actions as required. It marks the new and determined response of the Narendra Modi government. Pakistan does not listen to the language of diplomacy, which only becomes a cover for its subversive actions. India understands this well and the global community is coming to recognise it too. 
&nbsp; 
There is no going back to the old attitudes that have prevailed since 1947. No more tolerance for terror. No more protection for separatists. Full integration of Kashmir into India. This is the only solution and long term befitting reply to Pakistan's continual terrorist attacks on India.

The outpouring of emotion and outrage after Pulwama has been exceptional and has reached all parts of the country. This is particularly notable given the comparable lack of outrage when the entire Kashmiri Pandit population was driven out by militants in 1990, along with a massive loss of life and property - a veritable genocide of a religious community. This emotion continues after the Balakot retaliatory strikes and is likely to be sustained until Pakistan stops its aggression.

What has caused this radical shift in attitude? It begins with the greater sense of identity and nationalism that we find today in the Modi era, in which it is no longer wrong to be patriotic and proud of India as a nation and a great civilization. It reflects the new aspirational ethos for which being Indian or even being Hindu is no longer something to make excuses about.

It is a complete loss of patience as the Kashmir issue remains problematic after seventy years that have failed to bring peace, despite extensive dialogue, compromise, and the extension of special benefits for Kashmir.

Most importantly, it is not just an issue of local separatists but of global terrorism, with ISIS coming into India. The tactics and sophisticated explosives used in the Pulwama attack indicate training and support by both the Pakistan Army and groups connected to ISIS. If not dealt with firmly, these radical forces can threaten India as a whole, and affect other countries as well.

The response 
 
Removing security from and arresting separatists, stringent economic sanctions against Pakistan and diverting river waters from flowing into Pakistan are important initial steps. The Balakot airstrike and continued retaliatory measures are the second and more significant phase that demonstrates India's new resolve.

All Indians should be allowed to move, conduct business and own property in Kashmir - just as Kashmiris are allowed to do so in the whole of India, as they possess many properties and businesses throughout the country. The special status and autonomy afforded to Kashmir should be revoked and the concerns of Jammu and Ladakh be given their place, not just those of the Valley.

Military retaliation is certainly justified. It is no longer a question merely of Kashmir or India, but of global terrorism centered in Pakistan. The new Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, appears as impotent as previous Prime Ministers to control Pakistan's military domination and support for terrorism. In fact, he came to power with the help of the same jihadi groups behind the Pulwama attack, with Jaish-e-Mohammed supporting his campaign in Punjab.

The roots of terrorism in Pakistan must be addressed, not simply the branches that extend into Kashmir. While it is necessary to engage the international community with diplomatic sanctions on Pakistan, India must act according to its own interests extending to military responses. The world does not honour a weak country, particularly in the face of terrorism. We must compare how the United States, China or Russia firmly deal with terrorism with the softness that India has followed until Narendra Modi's new policy today.&nbsp;

This stronger Indian response is better for Kashmiris, whom Pakistan will never bring peace to. Full integration with India will result in greater prosperity for Kashmir and restore cultural harmony. Show us one province in Pakistan where there is harmony, even among Muslim sects and where any minorities are treated fairly?&nbsp;

While dangers exist in a more aggressive policy relative to Pakistan, there are more significant dangers in continuing the same policies that have resulted in the current situation. The Narendra Modi government knows this and is carefully planning action on all levels, including military, to comprehensively address Pakistan's ongoing proxy war with India through Kashmir. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/why-indias-new-assertive-kashmir-policy-is-essential-2183995.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

For India to arise, for Bharat to be resurgent, Kashmir must be reintegrated into India. It is a question of national security, national identity and throwing off outside interference.

For India to arise, for Bharat to be resurgent, Kashmir must be reintegrated into India. It is a question of national security, national identity and throwing off outside interference. Otherwise, India's war of independence will continue at a proxy level with Pakistan and the numerous terrorist organisations allied with it. India's national sentiment about Kashmir has shifted radically since the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, in which a Pakistan-supported Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide bomber took the lives of more than forty of India's paramilitary forces. India's change of mindset over Kashmir is irreversible and the old appeasement policy is no longer acceptable. A new national vision has arisen that wants a permanent solution to the problem. The airstrike on terrorist bases in Balakot, Pakistan, on February 26 is a clear manifestation of this new policy and will be followed with similar strong actions as required. It marks the new and determined response of the Narendra Modi government. Pakistan does not listen to the language of diplomacy, which only becomes a cover for its subversive actions. India understands this well and the global community is coming to recognise it too. There is no going back to the old attitudes that have prevailed since 1947. No more tolerance for terror. No more protection for separatists. Full integration of Kashmir into India. This is the only solution and long term befitting reply to Pakistan's continual terrorist attacks on India. The outpouring of emotion and outrage after Pulwama has been exceptional and has reached all parts of the country. This is particularly notable given the comparable lack of outrage when the entire Kashmiri Pandit population was driven out by militants in 1990, along with a massive loss of life and property - a veritable genocide of a religious community. This emotion continues after the Balakot retaliatory strikes and is likely to be sustained until Pakistan stops its aggression. What has caused this radical shift in attitude? It begins with the greater sense of identity and nationalism that we find today in the Modi era, in which it is no longer wrong to be patriotic and proud of India as a nation and a great civilization. It reflects the new aspirational ethos for which being Indian or even being Hindu is no longer something to make excuses about. It is a complete loss of patience as the Kashmir issue remains problematic after seventy years that have failed to bring peace, despite extensive dialogue, compromise, and the extension of special benefits for Kashmir. Most importantly, it is not just an issue of local separatists but of global terrorism, with ISIS coming into India. The tactics and sophisticated explosives used in the Pulwama attack indicate training and support by both the Pakistan Army and groups connected to ISIS. If not dealt with firmly, these radical forces can threaten India as a whole, and affect other countries as well. The response Removing security from and arresting separatists, stringent economic sanctions against Pakistan and diverting river waters from flowing into Pakistan are important initial steps. The Balakot airstrike and continued retaliatory measures are the second and more significant phase that demonstrates India's new resolve. All Indians should be allowed to move, conduct business and own property in Kashmir - just as Kashmiris are allowed to do so in the whole of India, as they possess many properties and businesses throughout the country. The special status and autonomy afforded to Kashmir should be revoked and the concerns of Jammu and Ladakh be given their place, not just those of the Valley. Military retaliation is certainly justified. It is no longer a question merely of Kashmir or India, but of global terrorism centered in Pakistan. The new Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, appears as impotent as previous Prime Ministers to control Pakistan's military domination and support for terrorism. In fact, he came to power with the help of the same jihadi groups behind the Pulwama attack, with Jaish-e-Mohammed supporting his campaign in Punjab. The roots of terrorism in Pakistan must be addressed, not simply the branches that extend into Kashmir. While it is necessary to engage the international community with diplomatic sanctions on Pakistan, India must act according to its own interests extending to military responses. The world does not honour a weak country, particularly in the face of terrorism. We must compare how the United States, China or Russia firmly deal with terrorism with the softness that India has followed until Narendra Modi's new policy today. This stronger Indian response is better for Kashmiris, whom Pakistan will never bring peace to. Full integration with India will result in greater prosperity for Kashmir and restore cultural harmony. Show us one province in Pakistan where there is harmony, even among Muslim sects and where any minorities are treated fairly? While dangers exist in a more aggressive policy relative to Pakistan, there are more significant dangers in continuing the same policies that have resulted in the current situation. The Narendra Modi government knows this and is carefully planning action on all levels, including military, to comprehensively address Pakistan's ongoing proxy war with India through Kashmir. (This article was originally published on The Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Why India's new assertive Kashmir policy is essential

Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday suggested that India is capable of carrying out an operation similar to the 2011 US action in Pakistan to eliminate Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden.

His remarks at an event related to the campaign to clean River Ganga came a day after the Indian Air Force pounded the main terror camp of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-france-ask-un-to-blacklist-jem-leader-masood-azhar-move-is-likely-to-be-opposed-by-china-200140">Jaish-e-Mohammed terror outfit </a>in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province.

Referring to the US operation in Abbottabad, Jaitley said, "It is said that a week is too long a time in politics. In our country the way people get enthusiastic, if you look at the last 24 hours, one week would appear to be a day.&nbsp;

"The kind of things we see...I remember when the US Navy SEAL had taken Osama bin Laden from Abbottabad, can't we do the same?"

"We could earlier only imagine, desire and get frustrated and disappointed (for failing to conduct such operations). But today, it is possible," he said at the event dedicated to generating funds to clean river Ganga.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Water Resources and Ganga Rejuvenation at DRDO. Jaitley contributed Rs one lakh in his personal capacity for the programme to clean the river.&nbsp;

The US' special forces had raided Osama's hideaway, a compound in Abbottabad in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa north of Islamabad, killing the dreaded terrorist.&nbsp;

Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday suggested that India is capable of carrying out an operation similar to the 2011 US action in Pakistan to eliminate Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday suggested that India is capable of carrying out an operation similar to the 2011 US action in Pakistan to eliminate Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden. His remarks at an event related to the campaign to clean River Ganga came a day after the Indian Air Force pounded the main terror camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror outfit in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. Referring to the US operation in Abbottabad, Jaitley said, "It is said that a week is too long a time in politics. In our country the way people get enthusiastic, if you look at the last 24 hours, one week would appear to be a day. "The kind of things we see...I remember when the US Navy SEAL had taken Osama bin Laden from Abbottabad, can't we do the same?" "We could earlier only imagine, desire and get frustrated and disappointed (for failing to conduct such operations). But today, it is possible," he said at the event dedicated to generating funds to clean river Ganga. The event was organised by the Ministry of Water Resources and Ganga Rejuvenation at DRDO. Jaitley contributed Rs one lakh in his personal capacity for the programme to clean the river. The US' special forces had raided Osama's hideaway, a compound in Abbottabad in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa north of Islamabad, killing the dreaded terrorist.

India too capable of operation similar to US action against Osama in Abbottabad: Arun Jaitley

The pre-dawn air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed’s largest terrorist camp in Balakot, 80 km deep into Pakistani territory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan’s backyard, has transformed the 71-year-old paradigm around India’s strategy on combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.&nbsp;

Crossing the Line of Control (LoC) had been studiously avoided in previous conflicts with Pakistan. Even in the 1999 Kargil war, Indian air strikes had been conducted from India’s side of the LoC. Tuesday morning’s air strikes will have two broad consequences: military and electoral. &nbsp;

Though Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale has termed the strikes “non-military and pre-emptive”, they were non-military only in the sense that they did not target Pakistan’s military installations. However, since terror groups like the JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen are arms of the Pakistani military, the reported killing of hundreds of Jaish terrorists will send the strongest message the Pakistani army has received in decades.&nbsp;

The cost of terrorism has just gone up manifold. No longer can the Pakistani army’s sponsored, funded and armed terror groups attack Indian targets at will without paying a heavy price. The precise damage done to terror camps in Pakistan will soon emerge with greater clarity. But there is no doubt that the days of Pakistan-based terror groups enjoying relative immunity from strong Indian retaliation are over.&nbsp;

The second consequence is obviously electoral. With less than six weeks to go before the first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the conclusion is inescapable: this alters the chemistry and mathematics of the election. Much now depends on how Pakistan reacts to the successful Indian strikes. If it downplays their impact, it can avoid escalation of the conflict. India has been quick to brief the envoys of all major powers about the pre-emptive nature of the strikes against a legitimate new terror threat from the Jaish. Pakistan says it will approach the United Nations. That move will go nowhere since four permanent members of the UNSC — the United States, Britain, France and Russia — have firmly backed India.&nbsp;

In the coming days, as attention shifts to electoral campaigning, opposition criticism of the government’s action, currently muted, will emerge. Unity over tackling Pakistan-sponsored terrorism has always been tenuous. It is unlikely to hold for long now.&nbsp;

After the 9/11 terror attack on the United States in 2001, the country rallied behind President George W Bush. Democrats and Republicans spoke in one voice. The retaliatory “shock and awe” US air attack on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan was supported across the American political and media spectrum.&nbsp;

Unless a nation presents a united front, terrorism will not be defeated. In the US there hasn’t been a single major terror strike on the mainland by Al-Qaeda or the morphed Islamic State (IS) since 2001. &nbsp;In India, after every terror attack by jihadi groups based, trained and funded by Pakistan, recriminations start. Opposition parties feign support but within days visceral politicking begins.&nbsp;

The air strikes come at an unexpected time for the opposition. Congress President Rahul Gandhi had acquired a spring in his step. The introduction of Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra into formal politics had created euphoria among Congress workers, especially in Uttar Pradesh. The Pulwama strike took place four hours before Priyanka was scheduled to address a press conference. Wisely, she cancelled it, speaking for just two minutes to condemn the attack, details of which were just filtering in.&nbsp;

The Congress party leadership now fears that Tuesday’s air strikes have fundamentally altered the arithmetic of the 2019 Lok Sabha election in favour of the BJP. The fear is two-fold. First, that public outrage is so strong that national security has now become a key electoral issue, overshadowing the Congress’ attack on jobs and rural distress.&nbsp;

Second, with less than 45 days to go before the first phase of a multi-phase Lok Sabha poll begins (in 2014, the first of seven phases was held on April 7), the impact of the air strikes on public sentiment will last well into the elections.&nbsp;

There was always an inevitability of the Modi government taking strong military action against terror assets inside Pakistani territory. The United States has unrivalled access to global intelligence inputs. When asked about India’s likely response to the Pulwama terror attack last Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters enigmatically that India was “looking at something very strong”.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meanwhile said little specifically except underlining that it was time for action and the time for talks was over. He added that he had given the armed forces a free hand to act. It is now known that the go-ahead for action against the JeM terror camp was given by the Prime Minister just days after the Pulwama terror attack on the CRPF convoy.&nbsp;

In an interview to a newspaper eight days before the Pulwama terror attack, Rahul had displayed his new combative role with gusto: “Mr Modi’s credibility is gone. Do me a favour, when you go out of here, when you stop at a red light, look at someone who is not really rich, and say ‘chowkidar’, and see if he answers ‘chor hai.’ When I am riding around Delhi, I hear them saying, ‘chowkidar chor hai.”&nbsp;

That is an epithet unlikely to resonate well in public discourse today.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-electoral-impact-of-air-strikes-2724785">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The pre-dawn air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed’s largest terrorist camp in Balakot, 80 km deep into Pakistani territory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan’s backyard, has transformed the 71-year-old paradigm around India’s strategy on combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

The pre-dawn air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed’s largest terrorist camp in Balakot, 80 km deep into Pakistani territory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan’s backyard, has transformed the 71-year-old paradigm around India’s strategy on combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Crossing the Line of Control (LoC) had been studiously avoided in previous conflicts with Pakistan. Even in the 1999 Kargil war, Indian air strikes had been conducted from India’s side of the LoC. Tuesday morning’s air strikes will have two broad consequences: military and electoral. Though Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale has termed the strikes “non-military and pre-emptive”, they were non-military only in the sense that they did not target Pakistan’s military installations. However, since terror groups like the JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen are arms of the Pakistani military, the reported killing of hundreds of Jaish terrorists will send the strongest message the Pakistani army has received in decades. The cost of terrorism has just gone up manifold. No longer can the Pakistani army’s sponsored, funded and armed terror groups attack Indian targets at will without paying a heavy price. The precise damage done to terror camps in Pakistan will soon emerge with greater clarity. But there is no doubt that the days of Pakistan-based terror groups enjoying relative immunity from strong Indian retaliation are over. The second consequence is obviously electoral. With less than six weeks to go before the first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the conclusion is inescapable: this alters the chemistry and mathematics of the election. Much now depends on how Pakistan reacts to the successful Indian strikes. If it downplays their impact, it can avoid escalation of the conflict. India has been quick to brief the envoys of all major powers about the pre-emptive nature of the strikes against a legitimate new terror threat from the Jaish. Pakistan says it will approach the United Nations. That move will go nowhere since four permanent members of the UNSC — the United States, Britain, France and Russia — have firmly backed India. In the coming days, as attention shifts to electoral campaigning, opposition criticism of the government’s action, currently muted, will emerge. Unity over tackling Pakistan-sponsored terrorism has always been tenuous. It is unlikely to hold for long now. After the 9/11 terror attack on the United States in 2001, the country rallied behind President George W Bush. Democrats and Republicans spoke in one voice. The retaliatory “shock and awe” US air attack on terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan was supported across the American political and media spectrum. Unless a nation presents a united front, terrorism will not be defeated. In the US there hasn’t been a single major terror strike on the mainland by Al-Qaeda or the morphed Islamic State (IS) since 2001. In India, after every terror attack by jihadi groups based, trained and funded by Pakistan, recriminations start. Opposition parties feign support but within days visceral politicking begins. The air strikes come at an unexpected time for the opposition. Congress President Rahul Gandhi had acquired a spring in his step. The introduction of Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra into formal politics had created euphoria among Congress workers, especially in Uttar Pradesh. The Pulwama strike took place four hours before Priyanka was scheduled to address a press conference. Wisely, she cancelled it, speaking for just two minutes to condemn the attack, details of which were just filtering in. The Congress party leadership now fears that Tuesday’s air strikes have fundamentally altered the arithmetic of the 2019 Lok Sabha election in favour of the BJP. The fear is two-fold. First, that public outrage is so strong that national security has now become a key electoral issue, overshadowing the Congress’ attack on jobs and rural distress. Second, with less than 45 days to go before the first phase of a multi-phase Lok Sabha poll begins (in 2014, the first of seven phases was held on April 7), the impact of the air strikes on public sentiment will last well into the elections. There was always an inevitability of the Modi government taking strong military action against terror assets inside Pakistani territory. The United States has unrivalled access to global intelligence inputs. When asked about India’s likely response to the Pulwama terror attack last Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters enigmatically that India was “looking at something very strong”. Prime Minister Narendra Modi meanwhile said little specifically except underlining that it was time for action and the time for talks was over. He added that he had given the armed forces a free hand to act. It is now known that the go-ahead for action against the JeM terror camp was given by the Prime Minister just days after the Pulwama terror attack on the CRPF convoy. In an interview to a newspaper eight days before the Pulwama terror attack, Rahul had displayed his new combative role with gusto: “Mr Modi’s credibility is gone. Do me a favour, when you go out of here, when you stop at a red light, look at someone who is not really rich, and say ‘chowkidar’, and see if he answers ‘chor hai.’ When I am riding around Delhi, I hear them saying, ‘chowkidar chor hai.” That is an epithet unlikely to resonate well in public discourse today. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India-Pakistan tension: Unless nation presents united front, terrorism will not be defeated

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to&nbsp;escalate <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-chairs-nsc-meeting-again-asks-for-actionable-proof-on-pulwama-attack-sources-to-wion-198779">over the Pulwama terrorist attack</a>, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

"Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said.

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Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Sri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, Our Govt. has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from Eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567044574916608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567046848221186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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All the above Projects are declared as the National projects.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567049423568896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has blamed Pakistan for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fires-at-posts-civilian-areas-along-loc-in-jk-for-third-day-indian-troops-retaliate-198774">Pulwama terrorist attack</a> which occurred last week even as the&nbsp;Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it.

A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this."

For this India is constructing&nbsp;Shahpurkandi Dam at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river.&nbsp;Implementation of this project would help to minimise some of the water of the River Ravi which at present is going waste through the MadhopurHeadworks downstream to Pakistan.&nbsp;

On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 ha in Punjab State and 32173 ha in J&amp;K State would be created.

The&nbsp;Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.

India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus&nbsp;over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue.

In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides.&nbsp;

The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent.

After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan.&nbsp;

The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state dispute.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to escalate over the Pulwama terrorist attack, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to escalate over the Pulwama terrorist attack, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan. "Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said. Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Sri @narendramodi ji, Our Govt. has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from Eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × All the above Projects are declared as the National projects. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it. A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this." For this India is constructing Shahpurkandi Dam at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Implementation of this project would help to minimise some of the water of the River Ravi which at present is going waste through the MadhopurHeadworks downstream to Pakistan. On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 ha in Punjab State and 32173 ha in J&K State would be created. The Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue. In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides. The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan. Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent. After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan. The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state dispute.

Government has decided to stop share of water which flowed to Pak, will divert water from eastern rivers and supply in J&K & Punjab: Gadkari

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman on Wednesday said that he stands with the families of the soldiers who were killed in the recent <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/weve-been-adopting-idealistic-agenda-for-too-long-former-indian-army-chief-bikram-singh-198529">Pulwama </a>attack.

On being asked whether <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-premier-league-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-198297">India should play Pakistan in the 2019 World Cup</a>, Laxman in an exclusive chat with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo at the WION Global Summit in Dubai said that "at this moment cricket is the last thing on my mind."

"We have to rally behind our security forces. In this time of mourning, we have to stand with the families of the soldiers killed. We have to make sure that terrorists and terrorism end&nbsp;once and for all. And hence, cricket is the last thing on my mind."&nbsp;

Speculations are rife that India might not play Pakistan on June 16 at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sources-on-india-playing-pak-at-cricket-world-cup-will-not-play-if-government-does-not-want-us-to-198443">ICC </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sources-on-india-playing-pak-at-cricket-world-cup-will-not-play-if-government-does-not-want-us-to-198443">Cricket</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sources-on-india-playing-pak-at-cricket-world-cup-will-not-play-if-government-does-not-want-us-to-198443"> World Cup </a>but there has been no official announcement from any of the board.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-expects-india-pakistan-game-to-go-through-despite-tensions-198455">ICC expects India-Pakistan game to go through despite tensions</a>

The situation arose after a suicide bomber, last Thursday, attacked a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/uprooting-state-sponsored-terrorism-experts-at-wion-global-summit-198561">paramilitary police convoy, killing over 40</a> in the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years.&nbsp;

Following the terrorist attack, angry Indian fans have demanded to boycott&nbsp;the marquee match in England. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman on Wednesday said that he stands with the families of the soldiers who were killed in the recent Pulwama attack. On being asked whether India should play Pakistan in the 2019 World Cup, Laxman in an exclusive chat with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo at the WION Global Summit in Dubai said that "at this moment cricket is the last thing on my mind.

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman on Wednesday said that he stands with the families of the soldiers who were killed in the recent Pulwama attack. On being asked whether India should play Pakistan in the 2019 World Cup, Laxman in an exclusive chat with WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo at the WION Global Summit in Dubai said that "at this moment cricket is the last thing on my mind." "We have to rally behind our security forces. In this time of mourning, we have to stand with the families of the soldiers killed. We have to make sure that terrorists and terrorism end once and for all. And hence, cricket is the last thing on my mind." Speculations are rife that India might not play Pakistan on June 16 at the ICC Cricket World Cup but there has been no official announcement from any of the board. Also read: ICC expects India-Pakistan game to go through despite tensions The situation arose after a suicide bomber, last Thursday, attacked a paramilitary police convoy, killing over 40 in the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years. Following the terrorist attack, angry Indian fans have demanded to boycott the marquee match in England.

'Cricket last thing on my mind, have to back security forces,' says Laxman on India-Pakistan game in World Cup

China on Tuesday urged restraint by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-india-blaming-pakistan-without-evidence-says-imran-khan-198266">India and Pakistan amid </a>escalating tensions over the Pulwama terror attack and called on both the countries to peacefully resolve their issues through dialogue as soon as possible.

On February 14, at least 40 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-anyone-who-has-picked-up-a-gun-will-be-killed-says-indian-army-198231">Central Reserve Police Force</a> (CRPF) personnel were killed in Kashmir's Pulwama district in a suicide attack claimed by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group.

The attack has heightened bilateral tensions with both New Delhi and Islamabad calling back their envoys for "consultations". India on Friday announced the withdrawal of the Most Favoured Nation(MFN) status for Pakistan and hiked the customs duty by 200 per cent on goods originating from the neighbouring country.&nbsp;

"Pakistan and India are both important countries in South Asia. A stable bilateral relationship between the two is essential to the peace and stability in the region," Geng Shuang, spokesman of the Chinese foreign ministry told a media briefing when asked about the tensions between the two countries following the Pulwama attack.

"South Asia has maintained an overall stability which should be cherished and upheld by all sides. China hopes that Pakistan and India will exercise restraint, engage in dialogue and realise the soft landing of the relevant issues as soon as possible," he said.

In a televised address to the nation, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had said &nbsp;India was blaming Pakistan for the Pulwama attack "without any evidence".&nbsp;

"If you (Indian govt) thinks you will attack us and we will not think of retaliating, we will retaliate," he said. "We all know starting a war is in the hands of humans, where it will lead us only god knows."

To another question about Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signing $20 billion agreement for Saudi investments in Pakistan during the just concluded visit of Saudi crown prince Muhammad Bin Salman, Geng said, "China is glad to see Pakistan having friendly exchanges and cooperation with other countries including Saudi Arabia".

On the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC), Geng said, "It will help with connectivity and shared development. China is ready to on the basis of consultation and consensus with Pakistan have a third party cooperation."

"The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a pilot project under the BRI (Belt and Road Initiative). It is committed to consultation and collaboration for shared benefits and when foreign minister Wang Yi visited Pakistan the two sides agreed to third party cooperation under this framework.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

China on Tuesday urged restraint by India and Pakistan amid escalating tensions over the Pulwama terror attack and called on both the countries to peacefully resolve their issues through dialogue as soon as possible.

China on Tuesday urged restraint by India and Pakistan amid escalating tensions over the Pulwama terror attack and called on both the countries to peacefully resolve their issues through dialogue as soon as possible. On February 14, at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Kashmir's Pulwama district in a suicide attack claimed by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group. The attack has heightened bilateral tensions with both New Delhi and Islamabad calling back their envoys for "consultations". India on Friday announced the withdrawal of the Most Favoured Nation(MFN) status for Pakistan and hiked the customs duty by 200 per cent on goods originating from the neighbouring country. "Pakistan and India are both important countries in South Asia. A stable bilateral relationship between the two is essential to the peace and stability in the region," Geng Shuang, spokesman of the Chinese foreign ministry told a media briefing when asked about the tensions between the two countries following the Pulwama attack. "South Asia has maintained an overall stability which should be cherished and upheld by all sides. China hopes that Pakistan and India will exercise restraint, engage in dialogue and realise the soft landing of the relevant issues as soon as possible," he said. In a televised address to the nation, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had said India was blaming Pakistan for the Pulwama attack "without any evidence". "If you (Indian govt) thinks you will attack us and we will not think of retaliating, we will retaliate," he said. "We all know starting a war is in the hands of humans, where it will lead us only god knows." To another question about Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signing $20 billion agreement for Saudi investments in Pakistan during the just concluded visit of Saudi crown prince Muhammad Bin Salman, Geng said, "China is glad to see Pakistan having friendly exchanges and cooperation with other countries including Saudi Arabia". On the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC), Geng said, "It will help with connectivity and shared development. China is ready to on the basis of consultation and consensus with Pakistan have a third party cooperation." "The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a pilot project under the BRI (Belt and Road Initiative). It is committed to consultation and collaboration for shared benefits and when foreign minister Wang Yi visited Pakistan the two sides agreed to third party cooperation under this framework.

Hope Pakistan, India will exercise restraint, engage in dialogue: China on Pulwama tensions

Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman was greeted with a booming 21-gun salute in Pakistan Sunday, as the powerful royal scion kicked off an Asia tour months after being tarnished by his alleged links to the murder of a journalist.

The crown prince, widely known as "MBS", launched his diplomatic trip in the capital Islamabad, where he was set to sign a raft of investment deals believed to be worth billions that Pakistan hopes will provide welcome relief to its teetering economy.

MBS was warmly embraced by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and powerful army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa as he stepped onto a red carpet flanked by an honour guard at a military airbase near Islamabad.

The two-day visit to Pakistan comes amid high tensions in the region: India and Saudi Arabia's arch-rival Iran -- both bordering Pakistan -- have accused Islamabad of backing militant groups which have carried out bloody suicide attacks on their soil in recent days.

Hours ahead of the crown prince's arrival, Pakistan dismissed Delhi's accusations, calling them "well-rehearsed tactics from (the) Indian playbook after such incidents in the past".

MBS will travel to India after his Pakistan visit, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

He is expected to finish the trip with a visit to China on Thursday and Friday.

The Asia trip comes five months after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a fierce critic of MBS, at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul ignited a diplomatic crisis.

Riyadh initially denied the murder, then gave several conflicting accounts of Khashoggi's death, and now claims he was killed in an unauthorised operation.

Turkey said Friday it has not yet revealed all the information it has uncovered in the extraordinary case, which launched a global wave of revulsion and profoundly tarnished the crown prince's reputation.&nbsp;

'Not a pariah'

But for analysts, the Asia tour -- the largest outing on the international scene for the Saudi royal since his participation in the G20 summit in Argentina last December -- is a timely demonstration to the West that he still has friends in rising Asia.

He "wants to demonstrate that he is not an international pariah", said James M. Dorsey, a researcher at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore.

It is a matter of proving that he still has "international access and he can function... as the most senior representative of Saudi Arabia beyond the king".

Li Guofu, director of Middle East studies at the China Institute of International Studies, a government-affiliated think tank, noted that the Khashoggi case continues to cause indignation in Western countries, so visiting them would have been "inconvenient".

"Not travelling to the West does not mean that he cannot come to the East. Saudi Arabia is also making strategic adjustments, and Asia is the new main direction of Saudi diplomacy," he said.

Asian countries, he added, "have an important special characteristic -- that is, we don't interfere in the internal affairs of other countries".&nbsp;

The prince's trip also includes an important economic component.

"China is the largest buyer of Saudi crude, and Saudi Arabia's other largest clients are all Asian: India, Japan, South Korea," said Dorsey.

"Asia is a source of inward investment into Gulf energy and infrastructure investment; and the future growth of the global economy will be in Asia," said Karen Young, an analyst with the American Enterprise Institute.

Taliban 'in Islamabad'

Pakistan is facing a serious balance of payments crisis and hopes its longtime ally Saudi Arabia will throw the struggling economy a lifeline, specifically in the form of a $10 billion investment in a refinery and oil complex in the southwest of the county.

Prime Minister Khan has already visited Saudi Arabia twice since coming to power last summer.

The crown prince's visit to Islamabad comes as the Taliban appeared to postpone a round of talks with the US set to be held in Pakistan this week, according to the group's spokesman.&nbsp;

Neither Washington or Pakistan confirmed the latest round of talks the Taliban earlier claimed were set to take place in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are both involved in a months-long push led by Washington aimed at ending the conflict in Afghanistan.

Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman was greeted with a booming 21-gun salute in Pakistan Sunday, as the powerful royal scion kicked off an Asia tour months after being tarnished by his alleged links to the murder of a journalist.

Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman was greeted with a booming 21-gun salute in Pakistan Sunday, as the powerful royal scion kicked off an Asia tour months after being tarnished by his alleged links to the murder of a journalist. The crown prince, widely known as "MBS", launched his diplomatic trip in the capital Islamabad, where he was set to sign a raft of investment deals believed to be worth billions that Pakistan hopes will provide welcome relief to its teetering economy. MBS was warmly embraced by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and powerful army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa as he stepped onto a red carpet flanked by an honour guard at a military airbase near Islamabad. The two-day visit to Pakistan comes amid high tensions in the region: India and Saudi Arabia's arch-rival Iran -- both bordering Pakistan -- have accused Islamabad of backing militant groups which have carried out bloody suicide attacks on their soil in recent days. Hours ahead of the crown prince's arrival, Pakistan dismissed Delhi's accusations, calling them "well-rehearsed tactics from (the) Indian playbook after such incidents in the past". MBS will travel to India after his Pakistan visit, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He is expected to finish the trip with a visit to China on Thursday and Friday. The Asia trip comes five months after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a fierce critic of MBS, at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul ignited a diplomatic crisis. Riyadh initially denied the murder, then gave several conflicting accounts of Khashoggi's death, and now claims he was killed in an unauthorised operation. Turkey said Friday it has not yet revealed all the information it has uncovered in the extraordinary case, which launched a global wave of revulsion and profoundly tarnished the crown prince's reputation. 'Not a pariah' But for analysts, the Asia tour -- the largest outing on the international scene for the Saudi royal since his participation in the G20 summit in Argentina last December -- is a timely demonstration to the West that he still has friends in rising Asia. He "wants to demonstrate that he is not an international pariah", said James M. Dorsey, a researcher at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. It is a matter of proving that he still has "international access and he can function... as the most senior representative of Saudi Arabia beyond the king". Li Guofu, director of Middle East studies at the China Institute of International Studies, a government-affiliated think tank, noted that the Khashoggi case continues to cause indignation in Western countries, so visiting them would have been "inconvenient". "Not travelling to the West does not mean that he cannot come to the East. Saudi Arabia is also making strategic adjustments, and Asia is the new main direction of Saudi diplomacy," he said. Asian countries, he added, "have an important special characteristic -- that is, we don't interfere in the internal affairs of other countries". The prince's trip also includes an important economic component. "China is the largest buyer of Saudi crude, and Saudi Arabia's other largest clients are all Asian: India, Japan, South Korea," said Dorsey. "Asia is a source of inward investment into Gulf energy and infrastructure investment; and the future growth of the global economy will be in Asia," said Karen Young, an analyst with the American Enterprise Institute. Taliban 'in Islamabad' Pakistan is facing a serious balance of payments crisis and hopes its longtime ally Saudi Arabia will throw the struggling economy a lifeline, specifically in the form of a $10 billion investment in a refinery and oil complex in the southwest of the county. Prime Minister Khan has already visited Saudi Arabia twice since coming to power last summer. The crown prince's visit to Islamabad comes as the Taliban appeared to postpone a round of talks with the US set to be held in Pakistan this week, according to the group's spokesman. Neither Washington or Pakistan confirmed the latest round of talks the Taliban earlier claimed were set to take place in Islamabad. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are both involved in a months-long push led by Washington aimed at ending the conflict in Afghanistan.

Saudi crown prince begins Asia tour in Pakistan amid India tensions

India, Pakistan officials meet on Kartarpur corridor will take place on March 14 in Delhi for which a Pakistani delegation will be visiting the country. The meet was earlier scheduled to happen on March 13.

Replying to a question on the developments on Kartarpur corridor, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "they had proposed date, and we had accepted the date. To finalize the modalities, the visit is taking place on March 14."

India had also shared the crossing point for the corridor but Pakistan has suggested an alternate crossing point.

Mea spokesperson said, "We had suggested a crossing point, shared coordinated, from Pakistan side we received a response and they have suggested an alternate crossing point."

India shared the coordinates on Kartarpur corridor in January. New Delhi hopes to complete all legal modalities regarding the corridor within a month and has issued land acquisition notification for building a highway and an integrated check post.

India has also suggested engineers meet before the India Pakistan officials meet on March 14 and according to MEA spokesperson, "awaits the response of Pakistan".

Home Ministry last week designated Dera Baba Nanak Land Check Post in Gurdaspur district in Punjab as the authorized Immigration Check Post for entry into/exit from India for the Kartarpur corridor.

India, Pakistan in 2018 approved the building of Kartarpur Corridor so that pilgrims can easily visit the Holy Gurudwara, where the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak lived for 18 years, to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev this year.&nbsp;

Recently, Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood said Kartarpur Initiative can be instrumental in further facilitating and fortifying people-to-people bonds.

India, Pakistan officials meet on Kartarpur corridor will take place on March 14 in Delhi for which a Pakistani delegation will be visiting the country. The meet was earlier scheduled to happen on March 13.

India, Pakistan officials meet on Kartarpur corridor will take place on March 14 in Delhi for which a Pakistani delegation will be visiting the country. The meet was earlier scheduled to happen on March 13. Replying to a question on the developments on Kartarpur corridor, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "they had proposed date, and we had accepted the date. To finalize the modalities, the visit is taking place on March 14." India had also shared the crossing point for the corridor but Pakistan has suggested an alternate crossing point. Mea spokesperson said, "We had suggested a crossing point, shared coordinated, from Pakistan side we received a response and they have suggested an alternate crossing point." India shared the coordinates on Kartarpur corridor in January. New Delhi hopes to complete all legal modalities regarding the corridor within a month and has issued land acquisition notification for building a highway and an integrated check post. India has also suggested engineers meet before the India Pakistan officials meet on March 14 and according to MEA spokesperson, "awaits the response of Pakistan". Home Ministry last week designated Dera Baba Nanak Land Check Post in Gurdaspur district in Punjab as the authorized Immigration Check Post for entry into/exit from India for the Kartarpur corridor. India, Pakistan in 2018 approved the building of Kartarpur Corridor so that pilgrims can easily visit the Holy Gurudwara, where the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak lived for 18 years, to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev this year. Recently, Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood said Kartarpur Initiative can be instrumental in further facilitating and fortifying people-to-people bonds.

Kartarpur corridor: India-Pakistan officials to now meet on March 14

The number of Indians who have completed their jail term but still languish in foreign jails stands at 434, minister of state for external affairs General VK Singh informed Parliament today.&nbsp;

According to the ministry of external affairs, a substantial number belongs to Pakistan totalling 434. General VK Singh informed Parliament that 396 Indians languish in Pakistani jails despite finishing their jail terms.

General VK Singh said Indian "Missions and Posts abroad provide all possible consular support and humanitarian and legal assistance on a case-to-case basis" and are "completing formalities by coordinating with local immigration authorities for early deportation of the Indians who have completed their jail terms."

The other number comes from the United Arab Emirates where 16 Indians still languish in jail despite completing the term, followed by Nepal at 7, Oman at 4, Bangladesh at 3, and Fiji at 2. China, France, Iran, Portugal, Russia, Uzbekistan have one Indian each in the jails who despite completing the term still remain in jail.

At least 4,705 Indian nationals are in prisons in Gulf countries. This number also includes Indian origin labourers imprisoned in the jails there.

At 2224, Saudi Arabia has the maximum number of Indians imprisoned, followed by 1,606 in UAE, 483 in Kuwait, 212 in Qatar, 121 in Bahrain and 59 in Muscat.

The number of Indians who have completed their jail term but still languish in foreign jails stands at 434, minister of state for external affairs General VK Singh informed Parliament today.

The number of Indians who have completed their jail term but still languish in foreign jails stands at 434, minister of state for external affairs General VK Singh informed Parliament today. According to the ministry of external affairs, a substantial number belongs to Pakistan totalling 434. General VK Singh informed Parliament that 396 Indians languish in Pakistani jails despite finishing their jail terms. General VK Singh said Indian "Missions and Posts abroad provide all possible consular support and humanitarian and legal assistance on a case-to-case basis" and are "completing formalities by coordinating with local immigration authorities for early deportation of the Indians who have completed their jail terms." The other number comes from the United Arab Emirates where 16 Indians still languish in jail despite completing the term, followed by Nepal at 7, Oman at 4, Bangladesh at 3, and Fiji at 2. China, France, Iran, Portugal, Russia, Uzbekistan have one Indian each in the jails who despite completing the term still remain in jail. At least 4,705 Indian nationals are in prisons in Gulf countries. This number also includes Indian origin labourers imprisoned in the jails there. At 2224, Saudi Arabia has the maximum number of Indians imprisoned, followed by 1,606 in UAE, 483 in Kuwait, 212 in Qatar, 121 in Bahrain and 59 in Muscat.

396 Indians languish in Pak jails despite finishing jail term: MEA

India has come strongly on Islamabad a day after<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-foreign-minister-calls-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-india-calls-it-regressive-step-193753"> Pakistan's High Commissioner to India</a> Sohail Mahmood was summoned after Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke with separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who heads All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Valley.

Highlighting the divergence in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-pak-high-commissioner-over-foreign-minister-qureshis-phone-call-to-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-193958">Pakistani government, ministry of external</a> affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "this is bit confusing is while one part of the government is talking about building bridges and peace, the other part which is exactly acting the opposite of what one part is talking about. Absolutely no clarity and it lacks seriousness."

On the Qureshi-Mirwaiz phone call, Raveesh Kumar said: "No doubt that this again exposes Pakistan's duplicity when they talk about peace at one hand and at the same time working together with forces which are pushing or fomenting anti-India sentiments. "

This comes even as Islamabad summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria on Thursday morning. Islamabad has also in a press release issued by Pakistan's foreign ministry "dismissed" objections raised by India on the phone call.

FM Qureshi will be visiting the United Kingdom soon for a number of events including anti-India conferences on Kashmir. Events that are being organized in London includes an event at House of Commons and an exhibition from 4-5 February.

Reacting to the development, MEA spokesperson said, "What we have noticed in recent months, the level at which anti-India sentiments are being pushed across the world, this is something unprecedented. I don't think we have noticed this level of action on their part."

India has "strongly" taken the issue up with UK and hopes "they do understand our objections to proposed conference and take appropriate action"

Adding further, Raveesh said,"UK is aware about our sensitivities in the matter. As a friendly country and as a strategic partner, we hope that government of UK will address our concerns which we have explained to them on the proposed conference which very clearly is intended to undermine the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of India."

On Jan 26th this year, India's Republic Day, the Indian flag was burnt by Pakistan backed Khalistani elements.

India has come strongly on Islamabad a day after Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned after Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke with separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who heads All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Valley.

India has come strongly on Islamabad a day after Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned after Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke with separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who heads All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Valley. Highlighting the divergence in the Pakistani government, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "this is bit confusing is while one part of the government is talking about building bridges and peace, the other part which is exactly acting the opposite of what one part is talking about. Absolutely no clarity and it lacks seriousness." On the Qureshi-Mirwaiz phone call, Raveesh Kumar said: "No doubt that this again exposes Pakistan's duplicity when they talk about peace at one hand and at the same time working together with forces which are pushing or fomenting anti-India sentiments. " This comes even as Islamabad summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria on Thursday morning. Islamabad has also in a press release issued by Pakistan's foreign ministry "dismissed" objections raised by India on the phone call. FM Qureshi will be visiting the United Kingdom soon for a number of events including anti-India conferences on Kashmir. Events that are being organized in London includes an event at House of Commons and an exhibition from 4-5 February. Reacting to the development, MEA spokesperson said, "What we have noticed in recent months, the level at which anti-India sentiments are being pushed across the world, this is something unprecedented. I don't think we have noticed this level of action on their part." India has "strongly" taken the issue up with UK and hopes "they do understand our objections to proposed conference and take appropriate action" Adding further, Raveesh said,"UK is aware about our sensitivities in the matter. As a friendly country and as a strategic partner, we hope that government of UK will address our concerns which we have explained to them on the proposed conference which very clearly is intended to undermine the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of India." On Jan 26th this year, India's Republic Day, the Indian flag was burnt by Pakistan backed Khalistani elements.

India expresses displeasure to UK over Pak foreign minister Qureshi's upcoming anti-India conference

A Pakistani delegation arrived in India on Sunday to visit the Chenab river basin in Jammu and Kashmir for inspection, as mandated under the Indus Water Treaty, sources said.

Pakistan's Indus Commissioner Syed Mohammad Mehar Ali Shah arrived in Amritsar along with his two advisers, sources said.

"This tour is an obligation imposed on both the countries by the Indus Waters Treaty 1960 between India and Pakistan. Under the treaty, both the commissioners are mandated to inspect sites and works on both the sides of Indus basin in a block of five years," a senior official said.

Since signing of the treaty, a total of 118 such tours on both the sides have been undertaken.

The last tours of the commission in Pakistan and India were held in July 2013 and September 2014, respectively. No tour could be held in the current five years block, which ends in March 2020.

This tour will be followed by a visit of India's Indus Commissioner to Pakistan at a mutually convenient date, the official added.

This tour was originally scheduled in October 2018 but was postponed because of local bodies and panchayat polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the Indus Water Treaty, waters flowing in three Indus tributaries -- the Sutlej, the Beas and the Ravi -- have been allotted to India, while the Chenab, the Jhelum and the Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

A Pakistani delegation arrived in India on Sunday to visit the Chenab river basin in Jammu and Kashmir for inspection, as mandated under the Indus Water Treaty, sources said.

A Pakistani delegation arrived in India on Sunday to visit the Chenab river basin in Jammu and Kashmir for inspection, as mandated under the Indus Water Treaty, sources said. Pakistan's Indus Commissioner Syed Mohammad Mehar Ali Shah arrived in Amritsar along with his two advisers, sources said. "This tour is an obligation imposed on both the countries by the Indus Waters Treaty 1960 between India and Pakistan. Under the treaty, both the commissioners are mandated to inspect sites and works on both the sides of Indus basin in a block of five years," a senior official said. Since signing of the treaty, a total of 118 such tours on both the sides have been undertaken. The last tours of the commission in Pakistan and India were held in July 2013 and September 2014, respectively. No tour could be held in the current five years block, which ends in March 2020. This tour will be followed by a visit of India's Indus Commissioner to Pakistan at a mutually convenient date, the official added. This tour was originally scheduled in October 2018 but was postponed because of local bodies and panchayat polls in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus Water Treaty, waters flowing in three Indus tributaries -- the Sutlej, the Beas and the Ravi -- have been allotted to India, while the Chenab, the Jhelum and the Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Pakistan team arrives in India to visit Chenab basin in J&K

A major incident of harassment of Indian<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-says-indian-high-commission-in-islamabad-functioning-without-certificate-of-completion-191744"> staff at the Indian mission in Islamabad</a> has come to light. The incident took place on January 15th at 10am when two staff member the Indian High Commission in Pakistan while going from the mission to world mart market in the diplomatic enclave were intercepted by Pakistan agency personnel and questioned about an alleged incident. The agency further threatened mission officials that Pakistan "would reciprocate on the same way."

India has raised the matter with the Pakistani foreign ministry and a note verbale was sent from the Indian mission on January 18th. In the note verbale, New Delhi requested Pakistani foreign ministry to investigate the incident and instructed the "relevant agency to ensure that such incidents do not recur". It also asked Islamabad to share the results of the investigation with the High Commission.

India in the note verbale added that such incidents of harassment of family members of diplomats are a violation of the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations of 1961 and that "safety and security of Indian High Commission, its officers, staff members and their families is the responsibility of the government of Pakistan"

The development comes even as the capital development authority of Pakistan demanded a "completion certificate" from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad on a new compound.&nbsp;

The authority has said the Indian mission has constructed, occupied and is functioning from the new building without a completion certificate. The capital development authority is the nodal body for providing municipal services in Islamabad capital territory. This has also been raised with Pakistan by Indian officials.

India&nbsp;raises terror issue with Pakistan

New Delhi has also raised the issue of terror with Pakistan. A note verbale sent on January 18th from the ministry of external affairs (MEA) to the Pakistan High Commission about an address in Lahore on January 14th by "Amir of Ansar ul Ummah alias Harkat Ul Mujahideen", a UN-designated terror entity, "advocating terror and violence against India".

In the note verbale, the external affairs ministry registered "its strong protest at the use of Pakistan controlled territory by extremist and terrorist elements to freely propagate violence and terror against India".

The note verbale further added that "New Delhi once again calls upon the government of Pakistan to fulfil its international obligations" and abide by its "bilateral commitment to not allow any territory under its control to be used for terrorism against India, in any manner".

A major incident of harassment of Indian staff at the Indian mission in Islamabad has come to light. The incident took place on January 15th at 10am when two staff member the Indian High Commission in Pakistan while going from the mission to world mart market in the diplomatic enclave were intercepted by Pakistan agency personnel and questioned about an alleged incident.

A major incident of harassment of Indian staff at the Indian mission in Islamabad has come to light. The incident took place on January 15th at 10am when two staff member the Indian High Commission in Pakistan while going from the mission to world mart market in the diplomatic enclave were intercepted by Pakistan agency personnel and questioned about an alleged incident. The agency further threatened mission officials that Pakistan "would reciprocate on the same way." India has raised the matter with the Pakistani foreign ministry and a note verbale was sent from the Indian mission on January 18th. In the note verbale, New Delhi requested Pakistani foreign ministry to investigate the incident and instructed the "relevant agency to ensure that such incidents do not recur". It also asked Islamabad to share the results of the investigation with the High Commission. India in the note verbale added that such incidents of harassment of family members of diplomats are a violation of the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations of 1961 and that "safety and security of Indian High Commission, its officers, staff members and their families is the responsibility of the government of Pakistan" The development comes even as the capital development authority of Pakistan demanded a "completion certificate" from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad on a new compound. The authority has said the Indian mission has constructed, occupied and is functioning from the new building without a completion certificate. The capital development authority is the nodal body for providing municipal services in Islamabad capital territory. This has also been raised with Pakistan by Indian officials. India raises terror issue with Pakistan New Delhi has also raised the issue of terror with Pakistan. A note verbale sent on January 18th from the ministry of external affairs (MEA) to the Pakistan High Commission about an address in Lahore on January 14th by "Amir of Ansar ul Ummah alias Harkat Ul Mujahideen", a UN-designated terror entity, "advocating terror and violence against India". In the note verbale, the external affairs ministry registered "its strong protest at the use of Pakistan controlled territory by extremist and terrorist elements to freely propagate violence and terror against India". The note verbale further added that "New Delhi once again calls upon the government of Pakistan to fulfil its international obligations" and abide by its "bilateral commitment to not allow any territory under its control to be used for terrorism against India, in any manner".

India raises terror issue with Pak as harassment of Indian diplomats continues

Pakistan on Wednesday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian troops retaliated to the ceasefire violation.&nbsp;

The latest ceasefire violation&nbsp;comes just a day after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions.

No casualty or injury was reported.

On December 26, one civilian was killed in the ceasefire violations incident by Pakistan.

On December 21, two Army personnel lost their lives during a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keran sector of Kupwara.

The deceased soldiers were identified as Subedar Gamar Thapa and Subedar Raman Thapa.&nbsp;

More details awaited.

The latest ceasefire violation comes just a day after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions.

Pakistan on Wednesday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian troops retaliated to the ceasefire violation. The latest ceasefire violation comes just a day after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions. No casualty or injury was reported. On December 26, one civilian was killed in the ceasefire violations incident by Pakistan. On December 21, two Army personnel lost their lives during a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keran sector of Kupwara. The deceased soldiers were identified as Subedar Gamar Thapa and Subedar Raman Thapa. More details awaited.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Poonch

Pakistan on Thursday described the Kartarpur corridor as the "high point of diplomacy" for the Imran Khan government while admitted that there was "no progress" on the contentious issues with India.

Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal also said that the Kashmir issue remained "on top of Pakistan's priority".

At the weekly media briefing here, Faisal said that the Kartarpur corridor was the "high point of diplomacy for Pakistan's new government, along with Afghan (peace) developments."

He said Prime Minister Khan in a letter to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in September gave a detailed roadmap to move forward but New Delhi failed to reciprocate.

Faisal said that despite India's refusal to start a dialogue, Pakistan went ahead with the groundbreaking of the Kartarpur corridor.

Prime Minister Khan in November laid the foundation stone for the corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district to facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims.

"It was very positively received all around the world, especially by the Sikh community. We are actively working to develop infrastructures at Kartarpur," Faisal said.

Faisal said, however, there was "no progress" on contentious issues with India and the Kartarpur corridor was the only positive development.

"We were not successful...We made an effort but they were not reciprocating. You can say it was not successful," the spokesman said.

Condemning the violence in Kashmir, he said Pakistan would "observe Kashmir Solidary on February 5, 2019 in London where the foreign minister will be present."

Faisal said 341 Pakistani prisoners were in India, including 154 civil prisoners and 187 fishermen. He said 12 civil and 33 fishermen have completed their jail terms and Pakistan is working to bring them back.

To a question about India's role in the Afghan peace process, Faisal said, "India has no role in this".

Faisal said Pakistan wanted to develop peaceful ties with all neighbours and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's four-nation visit this week was to explore possibility of a win-win framework for regional connectivity, economic development with the objective economic growth and prosperity.&nbsp;

Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal also said that the Kashmir issue remained 'on top of Pakistan's priority'.

Pakistan on Thursday described the Kartarpur corridor as the "high point of diplomacy" for the Imran Khan government while admitted that there was "no progress" on the contentious issues with India. Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal also said that the Kashmir issue remained "on top of Pakistan's priority". At the weekly media briefing here, Faisal said that the Kartarpur corridor was the "high point of diplomacy for Pakistan's new government, along with Afghan (peace) developments." He said Prime Minister Khan in a letter to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in September gave a detailed roadmap to move forward but New Delhi failed to reciprocate. Faisal said that despite India's refusal to start a dialogue, Pakistan went ahead with the groundbreaking of the Kartarpur corridor. Prime Minister Khan in November laid the foundation stone for the corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district to facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims. "It was very positively received all around the world, especially by the Sikh community. We are actively working to develop infrastructures at Kartarpur," Faisal said. Faisal said, however, there was "no progress" on contentious issues with India and the Kartarpur corridor was the only positive development. "We were not successful...We made an effort but they were not reciprocating. You can say it was not successful," the spokesman said. Condemning the violence in Kashmir, he said Pakistan would "observe Kashmir Solidary on February 5, 2019 in London where the foreign minister will be present." Faisal said 341 Pakistani prisoners were in India, including 154 civil prisoners and 187 fishermen. He said 12 civil and 33 fishermen have completed their jail terms and Pakistan is working to bring them back. To a question about India's role in the Afghan peace process, Faisal said, "India has no role in this". Faisal said Pakistan wanted to develop peaceful ties with all neighbours and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's four-nation visit this week was to explore possibility of a win-win framework for regional connectivity, economic development with the objective economic growth and prosperity.

Kartarpur corridor 'high point of diplomacy' for Imran Khan government: Pakistan

Software engineer <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hamid-ansari-mumbai-man-jailed-in-pakistan-for-six-years-meets-sushma-swaraj-in-new-delhi-185268">Hamid Nihal Ansari</a>, who had to spend six years in a Pakistani jail on espionage charges, returned to his hometown Mumbai on Thursday, refusing to "scratch old wounds" and vowing to move on with life.

Upon his arrival at the Mumbai airport to a cheering welcome by friends and relatives, Ansari said he would try to get a job and then find a suitable match for himself.

"I don't want to recollect what happened with me in the past. I want to look at the future," he said. "I have to find a job and after that I also have to find a woman to get married."

Ansari was arrested in Pakistan in 2012 for allegedly entering the country from Afghanistan reportedly to meet a woman he had befriended online. Pakistan slapped espionage charges against him. He was repatriated to India on Tuesday.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/message-to-india-pak-govts-is-humanity-is-bigger-than-any-religion-hamid-nihal-ansari-to-wion-185377">Pak govt's 'humanity is bigger than any religion': Hamid Nihal Ansari to WION</a>

Two days after he was handed over to India at the Wagah-Attari border, Ansari, 33, and his parents left New Delhi in the morning in an Air India flight and arrived at the airport here around 9.30 am, his father Nihal Ansari said.

Relatives, friends and well-wishers greeted and cheered for him as he came out of the airport. The family then left for their residence in suburban Versova.

Before leaving for home, Ansari told mediapersons at the airport he did make "mistakes" in the past. "I had my own mistakes but now I want to move towards the future. I don't want to go into those things now, I had my own sins and mistakes."

Ansari said while waiting to cross the border at Amritsar after his release from the Pakistan jail on Tuesday, he caught a glimpse of his parents, who were waiting for him on the Indian side, first time in six years.

"I was not able to meet them (immediately) as I was on the Pakistan side. At that time, I realised how much they must have suffered for me. I wanted to meet them immediately, but could not," Ansari said.

Asked about an eye injury he apparently suffered during interrogation at the Pakistani prison, Ansari said the interrogation process cannot be avoided.

"During the interrogation, the retina of my eye got ruptured. But, they admitted me to a government hospital and it was treated...They compensated for it ( treatment)," he said.

On an alleged attack on him inside the Peshawar prison, he said it was due to a "misunderstanding" which escalated.

Asked about his future plans, the software engineer said first there will be a celebration with the family. "(then) I have to find a job and after that I also have to find a woman to get married...Pehle naukri phir chokri."

The Mumbai resident, who returned to India on Tuesday after crossing the Wagah-Attari border, was imprisoned in the Peshawar Central Jail after being sentenced by a military court on December 15, 2015.

According to official sources, India issued 96 notes verbales to Pakistan seeking consular access to Ansari. The decision to release him was taken due to relentless pressure from New Delhi, they said.

Shortly before his arrival on Tuesday, his mother Fauzia Ansari had told reporters that the prayers of the family and of all those who wished for his safe return were answered. His father had said it was a new dawn for them.

Ansari and his family have thanked External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her ministry for persisting with the case and taking it up with Islamabad.

His jail term ended on December 15 but he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready.

On Thursday, the Peshawar High Court gave the Pakistan government a month's time to complete his repatriation process.

Ansari had an emotional interaction with Swaraj on Wednesday as he narrated the difficult phase he had to endure through in Pakistan.

Software engineer Hamid Nihal Ansari, who had to spend six years in a Pakistani jail on espionage charges, returned to his hometown Mumbai on Thursday, refusing to "scratch old wounds" and vowing to move on with life.

Software engineer Hamid Nihal Ansari, who had to spend six years in a Pakistani jail on espionage charges, returned to his hometown Mumbai on Thursday, refusing to "scratch old wounds" and vowing to move on with life. Upon his arrival at the Mumbai airport to a cheering welcome by friends and relatives, Ansari said he would try to get a job and then find a suitable match for himself. "I don't want to recollect what happened with me in the past. I want to look at the future," he said. "I have to find a job and after that I also have to find a woman to get married." Ansari was arrested in Pakistan in 2012 for allegedly entering the country from Afghanistan reportedly to meet a woman he had befriended online. Pakistan slapped espionage charges against him. He was repatriated to India on Tuesday. Also read: Pak govt's 'humanity is bigger than any religion': Hamid Nihal Ansari to WION Two days after he was handed over to India at the Wagah-Attari border, Ansari, 33, and his parents left New Delhi in the morning in an Air India flight and arrived at the airport here around 9.30 am, his father Nihal Ansari said. Relatives, friends and well-wishers greeted and cheered for him as he came out of the airport. The family then left for their residence in suburban Versova. Before leaving for home, Ansari told mediapersons at the airport he did make "mistakes" in the past. "I had my own mistakes but now I want to move towards the future. I don't want to go into those things now, I had my own sins and mistakes." Ansari said while waiting to cross the border at Amritsar after his release from the Pakistan jail on Tuesday, he caught a glimpse of his parents, who were waiting for him on the Indian side, first time in six years. "I was not able to meet them (immediately) as I was on the Pakistan side. At that time, I realised how much they must have suffered for me. I wanted to meet them immediately, but could not," Ansari said. Asked about an eye injury he apparently suffered during interrogation at the Pakistani prison, Ansari said the interrogation process cannot be avoided. "During the interrogation, the retina of my eye got ruptured. But, they admitted me to a government hospital and it was treated...They compensated for it ( treatment)," he said. On an alleged attack on him inside the Peshawar prison, he said it was due to a "misunderstanding" which escalated. Asked about his future plans, the software engineer said first there will be a celebration with the family. "(then) I have to find a job and after that I also have to find a woman to get married...Pehle naukri phir chokri." The Mumbai resident, who returned to India on Tuesday after crossing the Wagah-Attari border, was imprisoned in the Peshawar Central Jail after being sentenced by a military court on December 15, 2015. According to official sources, India issued 96 notes verbales to Pakistan seeking consular access to Ansari. The decision to release him was taken due to relentless pressure from New Delhi, they said. Shortly before his arrival on Tuesday, his mother Fauzia Ansari had told reporters that the prayers of the family and of all those who wished for his safe return were answered. His father had said it was a new dawn for them. Ansari and his family have thanked External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her ministry for persisting with the case and taking it up with Islamabad. His jail term ended on December 15 but he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready. On Thursday, the Peshawar High Court gave the Pakistan government a month's time to complete his repatriation process. Ansari had an emotional interaction with Swaraj on Wednesday as he narrated the difficult phase he had to endure through in Pakistan.

Hamid Nehal Ansari reaches hometown in Mumbai, seeks new life

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-national-hamid-nehal-ansari-set-to-cross-wagah-border-today-184927">Hamid Nehal Ansari, the man</a> who was held in jail for six years was finally released by Pakistan. He had gone to Pakistan and was imprisoned for having a fake Pakistani passport.&nbsp;

WION&nbsp;spoke to Hamid's mother and father as&nbsp;both<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-a-matter-of-great-relief-mea-on-hamid-ansaris-release-from-pak-jail-184890"> thanked the Indian and Pakistani </a>governments. WION also spoke to Jatin Desai, the man who tirelessly worked for the release of the Indian national.

WION: You will finally be able to meet your son...

Fauzia Ansari (Mother): Thanks to both the governments, the government&nbsp;of India, minister Sushma Swaraj and all those people who helped us right from the beginning and who stood on our side in our time of crisis. Credit goes to them. And also the Pakistan government, they helped us. I always felt they were very supportive and very helpful.&nbsp;

We are very happy on Hamid's release.

Nehal Ansari (Father): No words can express our gratitude and happiness. We are thankful to all the people including the government of India and Pakistan. There are so many people who were supportive.&nbsp;

 
Interview with Jatin Desai

 
WION: &nbsp;Sir, your hard work towards Hamid's release has finally paid off...&nbsp;

Jatin Desai: Absolutely, I am thrilled and happy. It is a historic day for India-Pakistan relations. After so many years, he will come back. He was imprisoned for six years. He was arrested on November 14, 2012, which is more than six years.&nbsp;

He was an innocent guy, he went to Pakistan for the sake of his love. He was in love with a girl from Kohat. He just entered Pakistan and he was caught. We also believe, there are many prisoners. Hamid is not alone. There are several like him in India and Pakistan, they need to be released. They need to be seen from a humanitarian perspective, which we don't.&nbsp;

Hamid can set an example. This is the time, India and Pakistan should release prisoners from their custody.

WION: &nbsp;Did you expect him to be released soon?

Jatin Desai: I was expecting it, although I didn't think he would be released on Tuesday. It's a pleasant shock, pleasant shocks are always welcome.&nbsp;

The new government in Pakistan, especially Imran Khan&nbsp;took the initiative. Next year will be the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, so the Kartarpur corridor has come up, let us hope. I always live in optimism. I believe, tomorrow will be better than today.

WION: Talk to us about your struggles. Issues you faced?

Jatin Desai: I am interested in the plight of the fishermen who have been arrested, I want them to be released. There are 400 Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody and 150 Pakistan fishermen in Indian custody.

It is very difficult. It is because of a lack of trust. We need to have trust between the two countries. In the case of Hamid, I must say, that in Pakistan a couple of friends and others tirelessly worked to get him released.&nbsp;

There were&nbsp;senior lawyers, women lawyers, who worked for his release, without any expectations. It is also a victory of the Indian and Pakistani media including the Indian and Pakistani social activists.

Hamid Nehal Ansari, the man who was held in jail for six years was finally released by Pakistan. He had gone to Pakistan and was imprisoned for having a fake Pakistani passport.

Hamid Nehal Ansari, the man who was held in jail for six years was finally released by Pakistan. He had gone to Pakistan and was imprisoned for having a fake Pakistani passport. WION spoke to Hamid's mother and father as both thanked the Indian and Pakistani governments. WION also spoke to Jatin Desai, the man who tirelessly worked for the release of the Indian national. WION: You will finally be able to meet your son... Fauzia Ansari (Mother): Thanks to both the governments, the government of India, minister Sushma Swaraj and all those people who helped us right from the beginning and who stood on our side in our time of crisis. Credit goes to them. And also the Pakistan government, they helped us. I always felt they were very supportive and very helpful. We are very happy on Hamid's release. Nehal Ansari (Father): No words can express our gratitude and happiness. We are thankful to all the people including the government of India and Pakistan. There are so many people who were supportive. Interview with Jatin Desai WION: Sir, your hard work towards Hamid's release has finally paid off... Jatin Desai: Absolutely, I am thrilled and happy. It is a historic day for India-Pakistan relations. After so many years, he will come back. He was imprisoned for six years. He was arrested on November 14, 2012, which is more than six years. He was an innocent guy, he went to Pakistan for the sake of his love. He was in love with a girl from Kohat. He just entered Pakistan and he was caught. We also believe, there are many prisoners. Hamid is not alone. There are several like him in India and Pakistan, they need to be released. They need to be seen from a humanitarian perspective, which we don't. Hamid can set an example. This is the time, India and Pakistan should release prisoners from their custody. WION: Did you expect him to be released soon? Jatin Desai: I was expecting it, although I didn't think he would be released on Tuesday. It's a pleasant shock, pleasant shocks are always welcome. The new government in Pakistan, especially Imran Khan took the initiative. Next year will be the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, so the Kartarpur corridor has come up, let us hope. I always live in optimism. I believe, tomorrow will be better than today. WION: Talk to us about your struggles. Issues you faced? Jatin Desai: I am interested in the plight of the fishermen who have been arrested, I want them to be released. There are 400 Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody and 150 Pakistan fishermen in Indian custody. It is very difficult. It is because of a lack of trust. We need to have trust between the two countries. In the case of Hamid, I must say, that in Pakistan a couple of friends and others tirelessly worked to get him released. There were senior lawyers, women lawyers, who worked for his release, without any expectations. It is also a victory of the Indian and Pakistani media including the Indian and Pakistani social activists.

Thank government of India, Pak for son's release, say Hamid Nehal Ansari's parents

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said.

"The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news.

"The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said.

On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor.

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur.

Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people.

Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.&nbsp;

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims. The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims. The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community. Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said. "The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news. "The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said. On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor. On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur. Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step. Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people. Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary. The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev. The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.

Pakistan opens immigration centre at Kartarpur border

Amidst peace overtures from Islamabad, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-has-changed-the-demography-of-pok-army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-180110">Army chief General Bipin Rawat </a>said Friday Pakistan cannot stay together with India as long as it is an Islamic state and if they are willing to become secular, then there is an opportunity.

While Rawat has expressed concerns over cross-border terror emanating from Pakistan, this is probably for the first time, he has talked about religious character of the neighbouring country apparently responsible for strained Indo-Pak ties.

"If they (Pakistan) have to stay together with India, then they have to develop as a secular state," Gen Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of the Passing Out Parade of the 135th course at the National Defence Academy here.

"See this staying together, staying separate, ispe Pakistan ko apni andruni halat dekhni hogi. Pakistan ne apne state ko Islamic state bana diya hai. Hum log secular state hai (Pakistan has to look at its internal situation. They are an Islamic state, we (India) are a secular state)," he said.

General Rawat said, "How can we stay together if you say I am an Islamic state and there is no role for anybody else," he said. "If they are willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity. Pehle dekhe, karte hai ki nahi karte (Let us see if they do so or not)."

Rawat's comments come amidst Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-googly-ensured-presence-of-indian-ministers-at-kartarpur-corridor-event-pakistan-foreign-minister-180412">Imran Khan's efforts to resume dialogue</a> with India.

During a press conference in Islamabad yesterday, Khan said he was "ready" to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and for the first time admitted that it was not in the interest of his country to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries. India has always maintained that

Pakistan-sponsor terrorism was its "core concern" and unless Islamabad takes action to stop it, the dialogue process cannot be resumed.

Asked about Khan's statement that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step, Rawat said the neighbouring nation should first take steps to stop terror activities.

"I would like to tell Pakistan to initiate that first step (of ending terror emanating from its soil). In the past, India has taken several steps. When we say terror is being harboured in your country, show some action by curtailing terror activities which are used against India," Rawat said.

On Khan's contention that why India and Pakistan could not be friends when Germany and France could be good neighbours, he said the neighbouring nation first needs to see its internal condition.

Amidst peace overtures from Islamabad, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Friday Pakistan cannot stay together with India as long as it is an Islamic state and if they are willing to become secular, then there is an opportunity.

Amidst peace overtures from Islamabad, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Friday Pakistan cannot stay together with India as long as it is an Islamic state and if they are willing to become secular, then there is an opportunity. While Rawat has expressed concerns over cross-border terror emanating from Pakistan, this is probably for the first time, he has talked about religious character of the neighbouring country apparently responsible for strained Indo-Pak ties. "If they (Pakistan) have to stay together with India, then they have to develop as a secular state," Gen Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of the Passing Out Parade of the 135th course at the National Defence Academy here. "See this staying together, staying separate, ispe Pakistan ko apni andruni halat dekhni hogi. Pakistan ne apne state ko Islamic state bana diya hai. Hum log secular state hai (Pakistan has to look at its internal situation. They are an Islamic state, we (India) are a secular state)," he said. General Rawat said, "How can we stay together if you say I am an Islamic state and there is no role for anybody else," he said. "If they are willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity. Pehle dekhe, karte hai ki nahi karte (Let us see if they do so or not)." Rawat's comments come amidst Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's efforts to resume dialogue with India. During a press conference in Islamabad yesterday, Khan said he was "ready" to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and for the first time admitted that it was not in the interest of his country to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries. India has always maintained that Pakistan-sponsor terrorism was its "core concern" and unless Islamabad takes action to stop it, the dialogue process cannot be resumed. Asked about Khan's statement that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step, Rawat said the neighbouring nation should first take steps to stop terror activities. "I would like to tell Pakistan to initiate that first step (of ending terror emanating from its soil). In the past, India has taken several steps. When we say terror is being harboured in your country, show some action by curtailing terror activities which are used against India," Rawat said. On Khan's contention that why India and Pakistan could not be friends when Germany and France could be good neighbours, he said the neighbouring nation first needs to see its internal condition.

If Pakistan has to stay together with India, they have to develop as secular state: Army chief

Home minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wed-been-taking-up-matter-with-pak-no-official-communication-has-come-government-on-kartarpur-corridor--166325">Rajnath Singh said today that the Cabinet </a>had approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to International Border(IB) along the Pakistan border.

"The Kartarpur corridor will <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-sahib-corridor-pakistan-says-there-has-been-no-formal-communication-with-india-166652">provide smooth and easy passage</a> to pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib throughout the year," he said while urging the Pakistan government to reciprocate and develop a corridor with suitable facilities in their territory&nbsp;

"Kartarpur corridor project with all modern amenities and facilities to be implemented with central government funding," Rajnath Singh said.

Last month, the Pakistan foreign office had said that Kartarpur border crossing for Sikh pilgrims will remain pending if there are no talks between India and Pakistan.

Kartarpur is situated in Narowal district of Pakistan's Punjab province, close to the India-Pakistan border. It was established by the first Sikh Guru in 1522. The first Gurdwara, Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib was built there, where Guru Nanak Dev is said to have died.&nbsp;Guru Nanak Dev is also said to have spent 18 years of his life there.

Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan is located across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.

Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who had attended Imran Khan's swearing in ceremony in Islamabad in August, has said that Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had hinted at opening of the route to Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Home minister Rajnath Singh said today that the Cabinet had approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to International Border(IB) along the Pakistan border.

Home minister Rajnath Singh said today that the Cabinet had approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to International Border(IB) along the Pakistan border. "The Kartarpur corridor will provide smooth and easy passage to pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib throughout the year," he said while urging the Pakistan government to reciprocate and develop a corridor with suitable facilities in their territory "Kartarpur corridor project with all modern amenities and facilities to be implemented with central government funding," Rajnath Singh said. Last month, the Pakistan foreign office had said that Kartarpur border crossing for Sikh pilgrims will remain pending if there are no talks between India and Pakistan. Kartarpur is situated in Narowal district of Pakistan's Punjab province, close to the India-Pakistan border. It was established by the first Sikh Guru in 1522. The first Gurdwara, Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib was built there, where Guru Nanak Dev is said to have died. Guru Nanak Dev is also said to have spent 18 years of his life there. Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan is located across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who had attended Imran Khan's swearing in ceremony in Islamabad in August, has said that Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had hinted at opening of the route to Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Cabinet has approved building of Kartarpur corridor, urge Pak government to reciprocate: Rajnath Singh

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Friday said relations between India and Pakistan cannot improve till the neighbouring country's military is tamed.

"Imran Khan or any other Khan cannot do much till they control their military, which has vested interests in continuing border tensions with India," Singh said at a literary festival here.

"By and large, people in Pakistan also want peace with India but their military feels otherwise,"&nbsp;he added.

He said that during his last stint as chief minister, relations between the two countries had "warmed up" to quite an extent.

The Punjab chief minister said he regretted that the bilateral relations soured again and blamed the Pakistan Army for it.

Singh said though Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI continues to foment trouble in Punjab, he does not foresee a revival of terrorism in the state.

"People here want peace and have seen what terrorism did to the state," he said.

Admitting that the state's youths were frustrated due to unemployment, he said his government's 'Ghar Ghar Naukri' programme was showing results.

About 4.5 lakh youths have been given employment in the past 18 months under this programme, he said.

Singh claimed his government had "by and large" controlled the drug menace.

"Nowhere in the world have drugs disappeared, but we are taking all steps to cut their supply chain and for the rehabilitation of the addicts," he said.

The chief minister said heroin was being smuggled into Punjab from across the country and the police had recently seized a consignment which had come from Mandavi in Gujarat.&nbsp;

This, he claimed, shows that a systematic game plan is in place to destabilise the state.

Singh said he would not allow this to happen and his government will continue its crackdown on drug dealers and traders.

He also dismissed the comparison between his government's decision to make sacrilege of religious books punishable with life imprisonment and Pakistan's blasphemy laws.

"If anyone thinks that they can get away by indulging in sacrilege, by burning a Guru Granth Sahib, a Bible, a Quran or any other religious scripture, they should know that we would not allow it and they will have to pay the price for such misadventures," Singh warned.

On prospects of the Congress in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he said the party is on the path of recovery and will form the government at the Centre.

Singh said Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be the party's prime ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

He said he is personally confident that the party chief would prove to be a successful prime minister.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Friday said relations between India and Pakistan cannot improve till the neighbouring country's military is tamed. "Imran Khan or any other Khan cannot do much till they control their military, which has vested interests in continuing border tensions with India," Singh said at a literary festival here.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Friday said relations between India and Pakistan cannot improve till the neighbouring country's military is tamed. "Imran Khan or any other Khan cannot do much till they control their military, which has vested interests in continuing border tensions with India," Singh said at a literary festival here. "By and large, people in Pakistan also want peace with India but their military feels otherwise," he added. He said that during his last stint as chief minister, relations between the two countries had "warmed up" to quite an extent. The Punjab chief minister said he regretted that the bilateral relations soured again and blamed the Pakistan Army for it. Singh said though Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI continues to foment trouble in Punjab, he does not foresee a revival of terrorism in the state. "People here want peace and have seen what terrorism did to the state," he said. Admitting that the state's youths were frustrated due to unemployment, he said his government's 'Ghar Ghar Naukri' programme was showing results. About 4.5 lakh youths have been given employment in the past 18 months under this programme, he said. Singh claimed his government had "by and large" controlled the drug menace. "Nowhere in the world have drugs disappeared, but we are taking all steps to cut their supply chain and for the rehabilitation of the addicts," he said. The chief minister said heroin was being smuggled into Punjab from across the country and the police had recently seized a consignment which had come from Mandavi in Gujarat. This, he claimed, shows that a systematic game plan is in place to destabilise the state. Singh said he would not allow this to happen and his government will continue its crackdown on drug dealers and traders. He also dismissed the comparison between his government's decision to make sacrilege of religious books punishable with life imprisonment and Pakistan's blasphemy laws. "If anyone thinks that they can get away by indulging in sacrilege, by burning a Guru Granth Sahib, a Bible, a Quran or any other religious scripture, they should know that we would not allow it and they will have to pay the price for such misadventures," Singh warned. On prospects of the Congress in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he said the party is on the path of recovery and will form the government at the Centre. Singh said Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be the party's prime ministerial candidate. He said he is personally confident that the party chief would prove to be a successful prime minister.

Relations can't improve till Pakistan Army is tamed: Amarinder Singh

Twelve Indian fishermen have been arrested by Pakistani authorities for allegedly straying into the country's territorial waters off the coast of Sindh province, a security official said Monday.

They were arrested over the weekend by personnel of the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) during an operation.

A security official told PTI that two boats of the fishermen were also confiscated.

"The fishermen were handed over to the Docks Police Station in Karachi to register a case against them for illegal entering into Pakistan," the official said.

A case has been registered against them at the Dock Police Station in Karachi.

Pakistan and India regularly arrest each other's fishermen who inadvertently enter into their waters due to absence of any proper technology to confirm the coastline border between Pakistan and

India near Sir Creek in the Arabian Sea. They languish in jails until they are set free on certain occasions.&nbsp;

Last month, the PMSA arrested 16 Indian fishermen and seized their three boats.&nbsp;

Twelve Indian fishermen have been arrested by Pakistani authorities for allegedly straying into the country's territorial waters off the coast of Sindh province, a security official said Monday.

Twelve Indian fishermen have been arrested by Pakistani authorities for allegedly straying into the country's territorial waters off the coast of Sindh province, a security official said Monday. They were arrested over the weekend by personnel of the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) during an operation. A security official told PTI that two boats of the fishermen were also confiscated. "The fishermen were handed over to the Docks Police Station in Karachi to register a case against them for illegal entering into Pakistan," the official said. A case has been registered against them at the Dock Police Station in Karachi. Pakistan and India regularly arrest each other's fishermen who inadvertently enter into their waters due to absence of any proper technology to confirm the coastline border between Pakistan and India near Sir Creek in the Arabian Sea. They languish in jails until they are set free on certain occasions. Last month, the PMSA arrested 16 Indian fishermen and seized their three boats.

Pakistan arrests 12 Indian fishermen

China on Sunday said it supported Pakistan's "quest for peace through dialogue" to settle the outstanding disputes with India and backed Islamabad's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

A joint statement, issued hereafter Prime Minister Imran Khan's talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, said that China backed Pakistan's efforts to improve ties with India to settle "outstanding disputes", without directly mentioning the Kashmir issue.

"China appreciates Pakistan's quest for peace through dialogue, cooperation and negotiation, on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and supports Pakistan's efforts for improvement of Pakistan-India relations and for settlement of outstanding disputes between the two countries," the joint statement said.

The ties between India and Pakistan had strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based groups in 2016 and India's surgical strikes inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

In recent years, China has refrained from taking a public stance on the India-Pakistan ties, expressing hope for resolution of the disputes through dialogue.

On the Kashmir issue, China's oft-repeated stand was that it should be resolved peacefully through dialogue.

India too supports dialogue as the way to resolve the issue with Pakistan but maintains that the talks and terrorism cannot go together.

For its part, Pakistan supported active participation of China at the platform of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

Also significantly, China tacitly expressed its backing for Pakistan's efforts to secure the NSG membership.

China has been blocking India's entry into the NSG on the ground that New Delhi is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) even though majority of the 48-member group supported India's entry into the elite nuclear club.

Pakistan too has applied for the NSG membership.

"The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral, non-discriminatory arms control and non-proliferation endeavours," the joint statement said.

"They noted with concern the continued pursuit of double standards in the application of non-proliferation norms and procedures and called for policies upholding rule of law and long-standing rules," it added.&nbsp;

China appreciates and supports steps taken by Pakistan for strengthening the global non-proliferation regime, it said.&nbsp;

In this context, China supports Pakistan's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group and welcomes its adherence of NSG Guidelines, the statement added.

China also heaped praise on Pakistan for its efforts to counter terrorism and said it recognised Islamabad's efforts in actively strengthening financial regulations to combat terrorism financing, and called on all relevant parties to view Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts in an objective and fair manner, according to the joint statement.

But at the same time China is pressing Pakistan to crackdown on Uygur Islamic militants crossing in and out of the volatile Muslim-majority Xinjiang province bordering Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

"The Pakistani side reaffirmed its support to the Chinese side in safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and combating separatism, terrorism and extremism including East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM)," the statement said.

China blames the separatist ETIM, an al-Qaeda linked group, for the violent attacks in Xinjiang and elsewhere in the country.

Both China and Pakistan agreed to further enhance cooperation against "Three Evils' of extremism, terrorism and separatism", the statement said.

All weather friends, China and Pakistan also agreed to enhance their defence cooperation. China is the main supplier of defence equipment for Pakistan.

They agreed to further enhance defence cooperation, maintain high-level visits and exchanges at various levels between relevant departments of the two armed forces, the joint statement said.

Both sides have agreed to make full use of the China-Pakistan Defence and Security Consultation mechanism, deepen cooperation in areas such as military exercises, training cooperation, personnel exchanges, and equipment and technology cooperation, it said.

During his visit, Prime Minister Khan has held talks with President Xi and Premier Li mainly focussing on seeking China's loans to tide over serious financial crisis faced by Pakistan.

China while stating that it would extend necessary support to Pakistan reportedly committed six billion dollars funding but did not so far officially confirmed it.

China on Sunday said it supported Pakistan's "quest for peace through dialogue" to settle the outstanding disputes with India and backed Islamabad's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

China on Sunday said it supported Pakistan's "quest for peace through dialogue" to settle the outstanding disputes with India and backed Islamabad's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). A joint statement, issued hereafter Prime Minister Imran Khan's talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, said that China backed Pakistan's efforts to improve ties with India to settle "outstanding disputes", without directly mentioning the Kashmir issue. "China appreciates Pakistan's quest for peace through dialogue, cooperation and negotiation, on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and supports Pakistan's efforts for improvement of Pakistan-India relations and for settlement of outstanding disputes between the two countries," the joint statement said. The ties between India and Pakistan had strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based groups in 2016 and India's surgical strikes inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In recent years, China has refrained from taking a public stance on the India-Pakistan ties, expressing hope for resolution of the disputes through dialogue. On the Kashmir issue, China's oft-repeated stand was that it should be resolved peacefully through dialogue. India too supports dialogue as the way to resolve the issue with Pakistan but maintains that the talks and terrorism cannot go together. For its part, Pakistan supported active participation of China at the platform of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Also significantly, China tacitly expressed its backing for Pakistan's efforts to secure the NSG membership. China has been blocking India's entry into the NSG on the ground that New Delhi is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) even though majority of the 48-member group supported India's entry into the elite nuclear club. Pakistan too has applied for the NSG membership. "The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral, non-discriminatory arms control and non-proliferation endeavours," the joint statement said. "They noted with concern the continued pursuit of double standards in the application of non-proliferation norms and procedures and called for policies upholding rule of law and long-standing rules," it added. China appreciates and supports steps taken by Pakistan for strengthening the global non-proliferation regime, it said. In this context, China supports Pakistan's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group and welcomes its adherence of NSG Guidelines, the statement added. China also heaped praise on Pakistan for its efforts to counter terrorism and said it recognised Islamabad's efforts in actively strengthening financial regulations to combat terrorism financing, and called on all relevant parties to view Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts in an objective and fair manner, according to the joint statement. But at the same time China is pressing Pakistan to crackdown on Uygur Islamic militants crossing in and out of the volatile Muslim-majority Xinjiang province bordering Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. "The Pakistani side reaffirmed its support to the Chinese side in safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and combating separatism, terrorism and extremism including East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM)," the statement said. China blames the separatist ETIM, an al-Qaeda linked group, for the violent attacks in Xinjiang and elsewhere in the country. Both China and Pakistan agreed to further enhance cooperation against "Three Evils' of extremism, terrorism and separatism", the statement said. All weather friends, China and Pakistan also agreed to enhance their defence cooperation. China is the main supplier of defence equipment for Pakistan. They agreed to further enhance defence cooperation, maintain high-level visits and exchanges at various levels between relevant departments of the two armed forces, the joint statement said. Both sides have agreed to make full use of the China-Pakistan Defence and Security Consultation mechanism, deepen cooperation in areas such as military exercises, training cooperation, personnel exchanges, and equipment and technology cooperation, it said. During his visit, Prime Minister Khan has held talks with President Xi and Premier Li mainly focussing on seeking China's loans to tide over serious financial crisis faced by Pakistan. China while stating that it would extend necessary support to Pakistan reportedly committed six billion dollars funding but did not so far officially confirmed it.

China backs Pakistan's 'quest for peace through dialogue' with India

Pakistan on Thursday summoned the Indian Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over an alleged ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC) which killed a civilian.

Singh was summoned by the Director General (SA &amp; SAARC) Dr Mohammad Faisal, who is also spokesperson, for the alleged ceasefire violation that took place on October 31 in the Leepcha sector, said the Foreign Office.

The firing killed an 18-year old civilian in Bijildar village, said Faisal.

"This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations," he said.

He urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 ceasefire arrangement, investigate it and other incidents of ceasefire violations, instruct the Indian forces to respect the ceasefire, in letter and spirit and maintain peace on the LoC and the working boundary.

He also said that the Indian side should permit United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to play its mandated role as per the UN Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;

However, India has maintained that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the LoC.

Pakistan on Thursday summoned the Indian Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over an alleged ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC) which killed a civilian.

Pakistan on Thursday summoned the Indian Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over an alleged ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC) which killed a civilian. Singh was summoned by the Director General (SA & SAARC) Dr Mohammad Faisal, who is also spokesperson, for the alleged ceasefire violation that took place on October 31 in the Leepcha sector, said the Foreign Office. The firing killed an 18-year old civilian in Bijildar village, said Faisal. "This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations," he said. He urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 ceasefire arrangement, investigate it and other incidents of ceasefire violations, instruct the Indian forces to respect the ceasefire, in letter and spirit and maintain peace on the LoC and the working boundary. He also said that the Indian side should permit United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to play its mandated role as per the UN Security Council resolutions. However, India has maintained that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the LoC.

Pakistan summons India's Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over alleged LoC firing

Terming as "deeply regrettable" Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks on Kashmir, India on Monday said that instead of making comments on internal affairs of another country, Islamabad should take "credible action" to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil.

Pakistan's "deceitful stand" on dialogue, while supporting terror and violence, "stands exposed" to the whole world, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters while replying to queries on Khan's remarks.&nbsp;

Referring to incidents of violence in Kashmir, Khan, in a tweet, said that time has come for<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-dialogue-to-resolve-kashmir-issue-172803"> India to realise that it must move to resolve the Kashmir dispute</a> through dialogue in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

"Strongly condemn the new cycle of killings of innocent Kashmiris....By Indian security forces," he tweeted.

Responding to Khan's remarks, the MEA Spokesperson said the Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues. He said Islamabad should stop supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours.

"The remarks made by Pakistan's Prime Minister in his tweet today are deeply regrettable. Instead of making comments on India's internal affairs, Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues.

"Pakistan would serve the interest of the people of the region by taking credible action against all kind of support to terrorism and terror infrastructure from all territories under its control rather than supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours," Kumar said.

It is not the first time Khan has spoken about Kashmir.

In his victory speech after the July elections, Khan expressed his willingness to improve Pakistan's ties with India and said that his government would like the leaders of the two sides to resolve all disputes, including the "core issue" of Kashmir, through talks.&nbsp;

He had said good India-Pakistan relations will be beneficial for the entire region.

A meeting between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan was announced on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly. However, in September, New Delhi called it off, citing killings of Indian security personnel by Pakistan-based entities and the release of Pakistani postage stamps "glorifying a terrorist and terrorism".&nbsp;

India maintains that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and Pakistan is in illegal occupation of a part of the state's territory. &nbsp;

Terming as "deeply regrettable" Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks on Kashmir, India on Monday said that instead of making comments on internal affairs of another country, Islamabad should take "credible action" to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil.

Terming as "deeply regrettable" Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks on Kashmir, India on Monday said that instead of making comments on internal affairs of another country, Islamabad should take "credible action" to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil. Pakistan's "deceitful stand" on dialogue, while supporting terror and violence, "stands exposed" to the whole world, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters while replying to queries on Khan's remarks. Referring to incidents of violence in Kashmir, Khan, in a tweet, said that time has come for India to realise that it must move to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. "Strongly condemn the new cycle of killings of innocent Kashmiris....By Indian security forces," he tweeted. Responding to Khan's remarks, the MEA Spokesperson said the Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues. He said Islamabad should stop supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours. "The remarks made by Pakistan's Prime Minister in his tweet today are deeply regrettable. Instead of making comments on India's internal affairs, Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues. "Pakistan would serve the interest of the people of the region by taking credible action against all kind of support to terrorism and terror infrastructure from all territories under its control rather than supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours," Kumar said. It is not the first time Khan has spoken about Kashmir. In his victory speech after the July elections, Khan expressed his willingness to improve Pakistan's ties with India and said that his government would like the leaders of the two sides to resolve all disputes, including the "core issue" of Kashmir, through talks. He had said good India-Pakistan relations will be beneficial for the entire region. A meeting between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan was announced on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly. However, in September, New Delhi called it off, citing killings of Indian security personnel by Pakistan-based entities and the release of Pakistani postage stamps "glorifying a terrorist and terrorism". India maintains that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and Pakistan is in illegal occupation of a part of the state's territory.

India slams Imran's remarks on Kashmir, asks Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure on its soil

Pakistan said on Friday that India's decision to buy S-400 missile defence system from Russia will further destabilise stability in the region and renewed the arms race.

In a statement, the Foreign Office said the Indian purchase was part of its efforts to acquire a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) System through multiple sources.

"This (S-400) will further destabilise strategic stability in South Asia, besides leading to a renewed arms race," it said.

India and Russia concluded the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal early this month during the visit of President Vladimir Putin to New Delhi for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The S-400 Triumf system is a next-generation mobile air defense system, which is capable of destroying aerial targets at an extremely long range of up to 400 kilometers.

The S-400 is known as Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system.&nbsp;

The Foreign Office also claimed that following the May 1998 nuclear tests by both sides, Pakistan had proposed a Strategic Restraint Regime in the region, advocating against the acquisition of BMD systems due to their destabilizing effect.

"Indian rejection of this proposal forced Pakistan to develop capabilities which render any BMD system ineffective and unreliable," it said.

Pakistan remains fully confident of its ability to address threats from any kind of destabilizing weapon system, the Foreign Office said.

"We reiterate our commitment towards ensuring national defence in line with the policy of maintaining credible minimum deterrence and maintaining strategic balance in the region in the future as well," it said.

Pakistan said on Friday that India's decision to buy S-400 missile defence system from Russia will further destabilise stability in the region and renewed the arms race.

Pakistan said on Friday that India's decision to buy S-400 missile defence system from Russia will further destabilise stability in the region and renewed the arms race. In a statement, the Foreign Office said the Indian purchase was part of its efforts to acquire a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) System through multiple sources. "This (S-400) will further destabilise strategic stability in South Asia, besides leading to a renewed arms race," it said. India and Russia concluded the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal early this month during the visit of President Vladimir Putin to New Delhi for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The S-400 Triumf system is a next-generation mobile air defense system, which is capable of destroying aerial targets at an extremely long range of up to 400 kilometers. The S-400 is known as Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system. The Foreign Office also claimed that following the May 1998 nuclear tests by both sides, Pakistan had proposed a Strategic Restraint Regime in the region, advocating against the acquisition of BMD systems due to their destabilizing effect. "Indian rejection of this proposal forced Pakistan to develop capabilities which render any BMD system ineffective and unreliable," it said. Pakistan remains fully confident of its ability to address threats from any kind of destabilizing weapon system, the Foreign Office said. "We reiterate our commitment towards ensuring national defence in line with the policy of maintaining credible minimum deterrence and maintaining strategic balance in the region in the future as well," it said.

India's decision to buy S-400 missile system will further destabilise region: Pakistan

Pakistan's foreign minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-should-not-view-ties-with-pak-through-indian-lens-qureshi-170007">Shah Mehmood Qureshi today</a> said today that India is "trying its best" that the negotiations don't take place between the two countries.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asked-us-play-facilitating-role-we-arent-engaging-india-bilaterally-pak-foreign-minister">Also Read:&nbsp;We aren't engaging with India bilaterally, asked </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asked-us-play-facilitating-role-we-arent-engaging-india-bilaterally-pak-foreign-minister">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asked-us-play-facilitating-role-we-arent-engaging-india-bilaterally-pak-foreign-minister"> to play facilitating role, says&nbsp;Qureshi</a>

Accusing India of opposing third-party intervention in J&amp;K, Qureshi said: "There haven't been any talks since 2015 and India is shying away from it."

Last week while talking to an audience in Washington Quereshi had requested US to facilitate talks with India but it was rejected by the Trump administration. Qureshi said the US wanted India and Pakistan to engage bilaterally, however, the Pakistan foreign minister said the two countries had not engaged bilaterally. The new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan, he claimed, is not shy of engaging.

He told the Washinton audience that it was "unfortunate" that the two countries were not engaging in talks.

"Due to the policies of BJP, India-Pak negotiations haven't been taking place," the Pakistan foreign minister asserted.

Everybody during the SAARC ministerial meet had appreciated Pakistan's efforts to talk to India, he told reporters outside the Pakistan Senate today.

The Pakistan foreign minister had told the SAARC ministerial panel on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly that the attitude of "one country" was hampering the spirit of the forum.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had attended the same meeting but left early, ostensibly to avoid meeting the Pakistan foreign minister, reports said later.

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi today said today that India is "trying its best" that the negotiations don't take place between the two countries.

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi today said today that India is "trying its best" that the negotiations don't take place between the two countries. Also Read: We aren't engaging with India bilaterally, asked US to play facilitating role, says Qureshi Accusing India of opposing third-party intervention in J&K, Qureshi said: "There haven't been any talks since 2015 and India is shying away from it." Last week while talking to an audience in Washington Quereshi had requested US to facilitate talks with India but it was rejected by the Trump administration. Qureshi said the US wanted India and Pakistan to engage bilaterally, however, the Pakistan foreign minister said the two countries had not engaged bilaterally. The new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan, he claimed, is not shy of engaging. He told the Washinton audience that it was "unfortunate" that the two countries were not engaging in talks. "Due to the policies of BJP, India-Pak negotiations haven't been taking place," the Pakistan foreign minister asserted. Everybody during the SAARC ministerial meet had appreciated Pakistan's efforts to talk to India, he told reporters outside the Pakistan Senate today. The Pakistan foreign minister had told the SAARC ministerial panel on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly that the attitude of "one country" was hampering the spirit of the forum. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had attended the same meeting but left early, ostensibly to avoid meeting the Pakistan foreign minister, reports said later.

Due to policies of BJP, Indo-Pak negotiations haven't been taking place: Pak foreign minister Qureshi 

The Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) today rejected Pakistan's allegation of Indian security forces using chemical weapons in Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-in-video-terrorists-order-ex-sarpanch-to-tell-son-to-quit-police-job-166669">Also Read:&nbsp;In </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-in-video-terrorists-order-ex-sarpanch-to-tell-son-to-quit-police-job-166669">video</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-in-video-terrorists-order-ex-sarpanch-to-tell-son-to-quit-police-job-166669">, terrorists in J&amp;K order ex-sarpanch to tell son to quit police job</a>

Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had on Thursday alleged that Indian security forces were reportedly using chemical weapons against Kashmiris in J&amp;K.&nbsp;

"Such allegations are not new and are totally unfounded," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"We completely reject allegations made by Pakistan about the reported use of chemical weapons by the Indian security forces against Indian citizens," the MEA spokesman&nbsp;said.

India is the original signatory to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) with the international community recognising India’s abiding commitment to the CWC which is the universal multilateral instrument prohibiting the use of chemical weapons, the MEA said, adding that India has repeatedly stated its complete opposition to the use of chemical weapons.

"It is of deep concern that Pakistan repeatedly tries to make such false allegations. They are acting in a highly irresponsible manner with the sole purpose of repeating untruths in the vain hope that the international community will start believing in their falsehood," the MEA spokesman said.

The Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) today rejected Pakistan's allegation of Indian security forces using chemical weapons in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K). Also Read: In video, terrorists in J&K order ex-sarpanch to tell son to quit police job Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had on Thursday alleged that Indian security forces were reportedly using chemical weapons against Kashmiris in J&K.

The Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) today rejected Pakistan's allegation of Indian security forces using chemical weapons in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K). Also Read: In video, terrorists in J&K order ex-sarpanch to tell son to quit police job Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had on Thursday alleged that Indian security forces were reportedly using chemical weapons against Kashmiris in J&K. "Such allegations are not new and are totally unfounded," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. "We completely reject allegations made by Pakistan about the reported use of chemical weapons by the Indian security forces against Indian citizens," the MEA spokesman said. India is the original signatory to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) with the international community recognising India’s abiding commitment to the CWC which is the universal multilateral instrument prohibiting the use of chemical weapons, the MEA said, adding that India has repeatedly stated its complete opposition to the use of chemical weapons. "It is of deep concern that Pakistan repeatedly tries to make such false allegations. They are acting in a highly irresponsible manner with the sole purpose of repeating untruths in the vain hope that the international community will start believing in their falsehood," the MEA spokesman said.

Completely reject Pak allegation on security forces using chemical weapons in J&K: India

When it's United Nations General Assembly, fireworks are bound to happen especially when it comes to India and Pakistan. This time was no different. Rancour ruled as India and Pakistan clashed. India exposed Pakistan's duplicity in dealing with terror while Pakistan raked up Kashmir.

In the midst of that, as a journalist, I wanted an interview with Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. He was on an interview giving mode, giving interviews to many western media outlets and speaking at various places including Asia society in New York. But not one to any Indian media.

I tried approaching Pakistan High Commission, who clearly said, I should have approached earlier since the schedule had been made. Standard reply for any mission if one has to say no.&nbsp;

So my best chance was SAARC meet. Luck was partial with me. I was in the room where SAARC meeting was to happen on September 27. Pakistan's foreign minister was first to enter. I immediately got my mike and asked him politely that can I get small 2-5 minutes interview. But his officials were quick, saying no to it.

The second chance was at the Asia Society. I rushed to the society as soon as I got to know it. Since it was an invitation-only event, I waited outside for 45 minutes. As soon as the event got over, I rushed to get his byte/interview. This time the security came in. Still, managed to shout a question to him. I asked, "Mr FM, What will be the focus of your UNGA Speech?". He smiled back and replied, "come and listen". And then I was whisked away by the security.

My third and final chance was something that gives me goosebumps. I was informed that Qureshi is holding a press briefing. The presser was at the Roosevelt hotel in New York. This hotel is Pakistan's national airways -PIA's property. Most Pakistani ministers and officials stay here during the visit to New York, and Qureshi being the finance minister of Pakistan was no different. The PC was at 6 pm New York time on September 29, a few hours after his speech at UNGA.&nbsp;

The speech full of anti-India rants was the repetition of established Pakistani policies and statements. Hoping it was my last chance to get him, I rushed to the hotel. I was frisked by US security officials who are given to most visiting dignitary for UNGA. I sat on the last seat.

The room was full of all Pakistani media and every Pakistani diplomat, including Islamabad's permanent representative to UN, Maleeha Lodhi. Qureshi's presser had nothing new to offer except anti-India stuff. But then came the moment. A tall guy came to me and started asking me questions-- enquiring who am I.

He suspected me to be from Indian media and he made me know they are not welcomed. He then asked me to show my ID-- I showed my UN card. He looked at it, and then it was clear to him that I was an Indian. He did not like my presence.

He asked me in heavy Urdu accent, "apka name list mai nahi hai." I thought before I can land in some trouble, I better leave. My camera person was downstairs, so I told the person, let me get my camera person. He physically stopped me by sitting in front of me.&nbsp;

Luckily, before he could turn more aggressive, my camera person arrived and quickly I went to him and said let's leave. He was visibly perplexed at my behaviour to the extent that he said, "sid you came for byte and now the PC is still on and you are leaving". I didn't answer. Just said let's leave. But then the aggressive looking guy came near to us.&nbsp;

My camera person said he needs to drink water and for the next 5 minutes, the person who stopped me from leaving stood behind my camera person. Those 5 minutes seemed like 5 hours.&nbsp;

As soon as my camera person stopped drinking water, I grabbed him and rushed to the lift. Only when we were out of the building, I explained him the entire ordeal.&nbsp;

So, in the end, I did not get Qureshi's interview and even after 3rd try, I did not get lucky.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When it's United Nations General Assembly, fireworks are bound to happen especially when it comes to India and Pakistan. This time was no different. Rancour ruled as India and Pakistan clashed.

When it's United Nations General Assembly, fireworks are bound to happen especially when it comes to India and Pakistan. This time was no different. Rancour ruled as India and Pakistan clashed. India exposed Pakistan's duplicity in dealing with terror while Pakistan raked up Kashmir. In the midst of that, as a journalist, I wanted an interview with Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. He was on an interview giving mode, giving interviews to many western media outlets and speaking at various places including Asia society in New York. But not one to any Indian media. I tried approaching Pakistan High Commission, who clearly said, I should have approached earlier since the schedule had been made. Standard reply for any mission if one has to say no. So my best chance was SAARC meet. Luck was partial with me. I was in the room where SAARC meeting was to happen on September 27. Pakistan's foreign minister was first to enter. I immediately got my mike and asked him politely that can I get small 2-5 minutes interview. But his officials were quick, saying no to it. The second chance was at the Asia Society. I rushed to the society as soon as I got to know it. Since it was an invitation-only event, I waited outside for 45 minutes. As soon as the event got over, I rushed to get his byte/interview. This time the security came in. Still, managed to shout a question to him. I asked, "Mr FM, What will be the focus of your UNGA Speech?". He smiled back and replied, "come and listen". And then I was whisked away by the security. My third and final chance was something that gives me goosebumps. I was informed that Qureshi is holding a press briefing. The presser was at the Roosevelt hotel in New York. This hotel is Pakistan's national airways -PIA's property. Most Pakistani ministers and officials stay here during the visit to New York, and Qureshi being the finance minister of Pakistan was no different. The PC was at 6 pm New York time on September 29, a few hours after his speech at UNGA. The speech full of anti-India rants was the repetition of established Pakistani policies and statements. Hoping it was my last chance to get him, I rushed to the hotel. I was frisked by US security officials who are given to most visiting dignitary for UNGA. I sat on the last seat. The room was full of all Pakistani media and every Pakistani diplomat, including Islamabad's permanent representative to UN, Maleeha Lodhi. Qureshi's presser had nothing new to offer except anti-India stuff. But then came the moment. A tall guy came to me and started asking me questions-- enquiring who am I. He suspected me to be from Indian media and he made me know they are not welcomed. He then asked me to show my ID-- I showed my UN card. He looked at it, and then it was clear to him that I was an Indian. He did not like my presence. He asked me in heavy Urdu accent, "apka name list mai nahi hai." I thought before I can land in some trouble, I better leave. My camera person was downstairs, so I told the person, let me get my camera person. He physically stopped me by sitting in front of me. Luckily, before he could turn more aggressive, my camera person arrived and quickly I went to him and said let's leave. He was visibly perplexed at my behaviour to the extent that he said, "sid you came for byte and now the PC is still on and you are leaving". I didn't answer. Just said let's leave. But then the aggressive looking guy came near to us. My camera person said he needs to drink water and for the next 5 minutes, the person who stopped me from leaving stood behind my camera person. Those 5 minutes seemed like 5 hours. As soon as my camera person stopped drinking water, I grabbed him and rushed to the lift. Only when we were out of the building, I explained him the entire ordeal. So, in the end, I did not get Qureshi's interview and even after 3rd try, I did not get lucky. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Chasing Pakistan's foreign minister in New York

On September 27, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will find herself in the same room as Pakistan’s new foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi at the SAARC foreign ministers’ annual meeting, customarily held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. A perfunctory namaste will be all Qureshi gets.

Why is Pakistan so keen to talk to India even as it continues to mutilate the bodies of Indian jawans and unleash terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM)? To answer that question, delve into the psychology of Pakistan – a mindset few Indian governments have read correctly. For years, Indian policymakers believed the conventional wisdom that Pakistan was run by the three As – Army, America and Allah.

America has since been replaced by China but the other two remain dominant forces in Pakistan. The army owns a third of Pakistan’s commercial real estate and several of the country’s businesses. Religious leaders too remain relevant. But there are two additional elements that hold sway in Pakistan.&nbsp;

First, the judiciary. It took centre-stage when the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Iftikhar Chaudhry ended Pervez Musharraf’s dictatorship in 2008. The courts have since played cat and mouse with the army, defying it only to retreat later. Their complicity during the rigged Pakistan general election in July 2018 revealed the limits to their defiance. There have, however, been spasmodic displays of independence. The Islamabad High Court, for example, last week released former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam from the prison they had been incarcerated in to prevent them, on the army’s orders, from contesting the general election. That paved the way for the victory of the army’s favoured candidate Imran Khan and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

The second new force to emerge in Pakistan is the in-house jihadi. The old Army-America-Allah triumvirate relied on outsourced jihadis. They gave the Pakistani army plausible deniability for acts of terror. That pretence is over. Pakistan’s Border Action Teams (BATs) work openly with LeT and JeM terrorists to kill, decapitate and mutilate the bodies of Indian soldiers on both the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).

India’s Pakistan strategy has meanwhile oscillated between resolve and naïveté. The surgical strikes across the LoC, whose second anniversary falls on September 29, displayed resolve. Inviting an ISI team to visit the site of the ISI-sponsored terror attack on Pathankot betrayed extreme naïveté.

More recently, this inchoate policy saw the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) agree to a meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi on the sidelines of the UNGA session on September 29 and, 24 hours later, cancel the meeting. The flip-flop was therefore caused not by any change in circumstances but by the eruption of public outrage. A meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi would have signalled India’s indecisive attitude towards Pakistan’s continuing use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy. That would, in turn, encourage Pakistan’s renegade army to intensify terror attacks on Indian soil using its in-house jihadi factory. The outcome India needs is the opposite: to discourage the Pakistani army from carrying out terror attacks in India by imposing an unaffordable cost on it.

Between dialogue and war, there is a large space to achieve this outcome. Pakistan is desperate for a bailout from the International Monetary fund (IMF). Its economy is in a shambles. Foreign exchange reserves at $10 billion are barely enough to cover 60 days of imports. The Imran Khan government has discovered to its horror that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) favours Chinese companies at the expense of Pakistani firms, apart from burdening the country with unsustainable high-cost debt.

Meanwhile, the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has reported that, following Pakistan’s greylisting in June 2018, Islamabad’s steps to curb terror financing have been inadequate. Pakistani courts have instead allowed globally designated terrorists like Hafiz Saeed to carry on their charitable activities despite the fact that they are a known cover for terror groups.

FATF has given Pakistan up to September 2019 to clean up its act. If it does not, and on present evidence, it will not, it will be blacklisted. That would cripple Pakistan’s economy. Islamabad is banking on getting the three votes it needs to veto blacklisting by FATF. These three votes are from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the UAE. If even one of these abandons Pakistan (two, Saudi Arabia and UAE, did when it was greylisted), Pakistan could find itself in a financial black hole.

Given that India holds all the aces and Pakistan none, it is important for the Modi government to follow the policy Modi himself had enunciated: “terror and talks don’t go together.” Pakistan’s strategy is unidimensional: seek talks with India to gain international respectability while continuing to sponsor terrorism in Kashmir. For Islamabad terrorism is not a means to an end. It is an end in itself. Low-intensity, low-cost proxy war against India justifies the army’s centrality in Pakistan and the financial perks that accompany it.

Ask the inhabitants of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) if the Pakistani army cares about Kashmiris. A visit to Muzaffarabad, the benighted capital of PoK, will provide a graphic answer. For the Pakistani army, Kashmiris, in J&amp;K and PoK alike, are fodder. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-rebooting-india-s-pak-strategy-2668336">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

On September 27, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will find herself in the same room as Pakistan’s new foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi at the SAARC foreign ministers’ annual meeting, customarily held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session.

On September 27, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will find herself in the same room as Pakistan’s new foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi at the SAARC foreign ministers’ annual meeting, customarily held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. A perfunctory namaste will be all Qureshi gets. Why is Pakistan so keen to talk to India even as it continues to mutilate the bodies of Indian jawans and unleash terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM)? To answer that question, delve into the psychology of Pakistan – a mindset few Indian governments have read correctly. For years, Indian policymakers believed the conventional wisdom that Pakistan was run by the three As – Army, America and Allah. America has since been replaced by China but the other two remain dominant forces in Pakistan. The army owns a third of Pakistan’s commercial real estate and several of the country’s businesses. Religious leaders too remain relevant. But there are two additional elements that hold sway in Pakistan. First, the judiciary. It took centre-stage when the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Iftikhar Chaudhry ended Pervez Musharraf’s dictatorship in 2008. The courts have since played cat and mouse with the army, defying it only to retreat later. Their complicity during the rigged Pakistan general election in July 2018 revealed the limits to their defiance. There have, however, been spasmodic displays of independence. The Islamabad High Court, for example, last week released former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam from the prison they had been incarcerated in to prevent them, on the army’s orders, from contesting the general election. That paved the way for the victory of the army’s favoured candidate Imran Khan and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The second new force to emerge in Pakistan is the in-house jihadi. The old Army-America-Allah triumvirate relied on outsourced jihadis. They gave the Pakistani army plausible deniability for acts of terror. That pretence is over. Pakistan’s Border Action Teams (BATs) work openly with LeT and JeM terrorists to kill, decapitate and mutilate the bodies of Indian soldiers on both the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB). India’s Pakistan strategy has meanwhile oscillated between resolve and naïveté. The surgical strikes across the LoC, whose second anniversary falls on September 29, displayed resolve. Inviting an ISI team to visit the site of the ISI-sponsored terror attack on Pathankot betrayed extreme naïveté. More recently, this inchoate policy saw the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) agree to a meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi on the sidelines of the UNGA session on September 29 and, 24 hours later, cancel the meeting. The flip-flop was therefore caused not by any change in circumstances but by the eruption of public outrage. A meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi would have signalled India’s indecisive attitude towards Pakistan’s continuing use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy. That would, in turn, encourage Pakistan’s renegade army to intensify terror attacks on Indian soil using its in-house jihadi factory. The outcome India needs is the opposite: to discourage the Pakistani army from carrying out terror attacks in India by imposing an unaffordable cost on it. Between dialogue and war, there is a large space to achieve this outcome. Pakistan is desperate for a bailout from the International Monetary fund (IMF). Its economy is in a shambles. Foreign exchange reserves at $10 billion are barely enough to cover 60 days of imports. The Imran Khan government has discovered to its horror that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) favours Chinese companies at the expense of Pakistani firms, apart from burdening the country with unsustainable high-cost debt. Meanwhile, the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has reported that, following Pakistan’s greylisting in June 2018, Islamabad’s steps to curb terror financing have been inadequate. Pakistani courts have instead allowed globally designated terrorists like Hafiz Saeed to carry on their charitable activities despite the fact that they are a known cover for terror groups. FATF has given Pakistan up to September 2019 to clean up its act. If it does not, and on present evidence, it will not, it will be blacklisted. That would cripple Pakistan’s economy. Islamabad is banking on getting the three votes it needs to veto blacklisting by FATF. These three votes are from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the UAE. If even one of these abandons Pakistan (two, Saudi Arabia and UAE, did when it was greylisted), Pakistan could find itself in a financial black hole. Given that India holds all the aces and Pakistan none, it is important for the Modi government to follow the policy Modi himself had enunciated: “terror and talks don’t go together.” Pakistan’s strategy is unidimensional: seek talks with India to gain international respectability while continuing to sponsor terrorism in Kashmir. For Islamabad terrorism is not a means to an end. It is an end in itself. Low-intensity, low-cost proxy war against India justifies the army’s centrality in Pakistan and the financial perks that accompany it. Ask the inhabitants of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) if the Pakistani army cares about Kashmiris. A visit to Muzaffarabad, the benighted capital of PoK, will provide a graphic answer. For the Pakistani army, Kashmiris, in J&K and PoK alike, are fodder. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan seeks talks with India to earn respect while continuing to sponsor terrorism

The Pakistan Army on Saturday said it is "ready for war" but chooses to walk the path of peace in the interest of its people, comments which came in response to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's remark that "stern action" is needed to "avenge" the brutal killing of Indian soldiers.

In an interview to Dunya TV, Pakistan Army spokesperson Asif Ghafoor said the country has a long-standing record of fighting terrorism and "we know the price for peace", The Dawn reported.

Earlier in the day, commenting on the recent brutal killing of a BSF jawan and three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir, General Rawat in Jaipur said stern action is needed to avenge the barbarism by terrorists and Pakistan Army against Indian soldiers.

"We need to take stern action to avenge the kind of barbarism that terrorists and the Pakistan Army have been carrying against our soldiers. It is time to give it back to them in the same coin but not by resorting to similar kind of barbarism. I think the other side must also feel the same pain," he said at a press conference here.

Rawat insisted that action against Pakistan was needed but not in a barbaric manner.

Refuting India's claim of Pakistani soldiers killing the BSF jawan, Ghafoor said, "We have struggled to achieve peace in the last two decades. We can never do anything to disgrace any soldier."&nbsp;

"They (India) have in the past as well laid the blame on us for mutilating the body of a fallen soldier. We are a professional army. We never engage in such acts," he added.&nbsp;

"We (Pakistan Army) are ready for war but choose to walk the path of peace in the interest of the people of Pakistan, the neighbours and the region," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

The war of words between the armed forces of the two countries came a day after India called off the foreign minister-level talks with Pakistan in New York this month on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

General Rawat also said the Indian Army had carried out successful operations against the Pakistan Army whenever they did something against India along the border.

"Pakistan has suffered many casualties and we have been able to take on their defence system to a large extent, but we never resorted to barbarism. They requested for a ceasefire in May and we agreed, but if they continue to do this, we will need to take other action," he said.

The Pakistan Army on Saturday said it is "ready for war" but chooses to walk the path of peace in the interest of its people, comments which came in response to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's remark that "stern action" is needed to "avenge" the brutal killing of Indian soldiers.

The Pakistan Army on Saturday said it is "ready for war" but chooses to walk the path of peace in the interest of its people, comments which came in response to Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's remark that "stern action" is needed to "avenge" the brutal killing of Indian soldiers. In an interview to Dunya TV, Pakistan Army spokesperson Asif Ghafoor said the country has a long-standing record of fighting terrorism and "we know the price for peace", The Dawn reported. Earlier in the day, commenting on the recent brutal killing of a BSF jawan and three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir, General Rawat in Jaipur said stern action is needed to avenge the barbarism by terrorists and Pakistan Army against Indian soldiers. "We need to take stern action to avenge the kind of barbarism that terrorists and the Pakistan Army have been carrying against our soldiers. It is time to give it back to them in the same coin but not by resorting to similar kind of barbarism. I think the other side must also feel the same pain," he said at a press conference here. Rawat insisted that action against Pakistan was needed but not in a barbaric manner. Refuting India's claim of Pakistani soldiers killing the BSF jawan, Ghafoor said, "We have struggled to achieve peace in the last two decades. We can never do anything to disgrace any soldier." "They (India) have in the past as well laid the blame on us for mutilating the body of a fallen soldier. We are a professional army. We never engage in such acts," he added. "We (Pakistan Army) are ready for war but choose to walk the path of peace in the interest of the people of Pakistan, the neighbours and the region," the spokesperson said. The war of words between the armed forces of the two countries came a day after India called off the foreign minister-level talks with Pakistan in New York this month on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. General Rawat also said the Indian Army had carried out successful operations against the Pakistan Army whenever they did something against India along the border. "Pakistan has suffered many casualties and we have been able to take on their defence system to a large extent, but we never resorted to barbarism. They requested for a ceasefire in May and we agreed, but if they continue to do this, we will need to take other action," he said.

'Ready for war' but choose to walk path of peace: Pakistan Army

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday slammed India for calling off the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two nations, which was scheduled to be held in New York later this month.

Khan tweeted he was disappointed at the ''arrogant'' and ''negative'' response from India to his call for the resumption of the peace dialogue.&nbsp;

In a Tweet on Saturday, Khan wrote,"Disappointed at the arrogant and negative response by India to my call for the resumption of the peace dialogue. However, all my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture".

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Disappointed at the arrogant &amp; negative response by India to my call for resumption of the peace dialogue. However, all my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1043432600046632960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-calls-indias-reasons-cancel-foreign-ministers-meeting-unconvincing-167062">Government of Pakistan had earlier described</a>&nbsp;India's move to call off the meeting between the foreign ministers as of&nbsp;the two countries as 'unconvincing'.

India on Friday called off the meeting between Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi that was supposed to take place in the New York, United States later this month on the sidelines of annual UN General Assembly (UNGA) session.&nbsp;

The move came after the bodies of three Jammu and Kashmir cops were found in the region on Friday. The soldiers were allegedly abducted and killed by a Pakistan-backed terrorist organisation. India also stated that the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-face-imran-khan-revealed-says-mea-after-calling-talks-pak-167000">true face of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been revealed</a>&nbsp;in the wake of the brutal killings.&nbsp;

''Since yesterday's announcement of the meeting of foreign ministers of India and Pakistan, two deeply disturbing developments took place. Latest brutal killings of our security personnel by Pakistan entities and the recent release of series of 20 postal stamps by Pakistan glorifying terrorists,'' Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday.

Pakistan government rejected India's claim stating that India had announced the bilateral talks much ahead of the "disturbing developments." It described India's comments on Pakistan PM Imran Khan, "against all norms of civilised discourse and diplomatic communication."

"The reasons cited by the Indian side for the decision to cancel the foreign ministers' meeting, within 24 hours of its public confirmation, are entirely unconvincing," read an official statement.

"Firstly, the alleged killing of BSF soldier took place two days prior to the Indian announcement of its agreement to hold the bilateral meeting," the statement read.

(With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday slammed India for calling off the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two nations, which was scheduled to be held in New York later this month.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday slammed India for calling off the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two nations, which was scheduled to be held in New York later this month. Khan tweeted he was disappointed at the ''arrogant'' and ''negative'' response from India to his call for the resumption of the peace dialogue. In a Tweet on Saturday, Khan wrote,"Disappointed at the arrogant and negative response by India to my call for the resumption of the peace dialogue. However, all my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture". Disappointed at the arrogant & negative response by India to my call for resumption of the peace dialogue. However, all my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 22, 2018 × The Government of Pakistan had earlier described India's move to call off the meeting between the foreign ministers as of the two countries as 'unconvincing'. India on Friday called off the meeting between Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi that was supposed to take place in the New York, United States later this month on the sidelines of annual UN General Assembly (UNGA) session. The move came after the bodies of three Jammu and Kashmir cops were found in the region on Friday. The soldiers were allegedly abducted and killed by a Pakistan-backed terrorist organisation. India also stated that the true face of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been revealed in the wake of the brutal killings. ''Since yesterday's announcement of the meeting of foreign ministers of India and Pakistan, two deeply disturbing developments took place. Latest brutal killings of our security personnel by Pakistan entities and the recent release of series of 20 postal stamps by Pakistan glorifying terrorists,'' Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday. Pakistan government rejected India's claim stating that India had announced the bilateral talks much ahead of the "disturbing developments." It described India's comments on Pakistan PM Imran Khan, "against all norms of civilised discourse and diplomatic communication." "The reasons cited by the Indian side for the decision to cancel the foreign ministers' meeting, within 24 hours of its public confirmation, are entirely unconvincing," read an official statement. "Firstly, the alleged killing of BSF soldier took place two days prior to the Indian announcement of its agreement to hold the bilateral meeting," the statement read. (With inputs from ANI)

Imran Khan slams India for calling off talks 

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