Pakistan today summoned <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-4-bsf-personnel-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-143986">India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner</a> alleging ceasefire violation by India along the Line of Control(LoC).

At least 4 BSF personnel were killed as Pakistan opened fire in the Chambliyal sector of Samba on Wednesday morning. Three other soldiers were injured during the unprovoked firing on the border.

BSF's Kamal Nath Choubey said ceasefire is always a bilateral decision, we have always maintained the sanctity of ceasefire but Pakistan has violated it.&nbsp;

"We are always prepared, ceasefire or no ceasefire there is no let up in border surveillance," Choubey added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Jammu: Wreath laying ceremony of BSF's Assistant Commandant Jitendra Singh, Sub Inspector Rajneesh Kumar, ASI Ramniwas and Constable Hansraj Gurjar who lost their lives today in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Chambliyal sector of Samba. <a href="https://t.co/RCUPHxtnEL">pic.twitter.com/RCUPHxtnEL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1006795904895127552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed to stick to the 2003 ceasefire agreement between the two countries three weeks ago, despite that firing along the border has continued unabated.

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid expressed his condolence over the incident.

During the firing on Wednesday, &nbsp;two BSF soldiers, one assistant commandant and one sub-inspector were killed.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kfMupKXp03Q" width="560"></iframe>

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

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

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

Reiterating&nbsp;foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's view, defence minister <a href="Commanders of BSF, Pakistan Rangers meet, say peace along border 'likely'">Nirmala Sitharaman said today</a> that talks and terror can't go together, in reference to cross-border terror attacks.

Addressing a press conference, Sitharam said the government had consulted with the Indian Army about the ceasefire.

India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan, a move which was applauded by the Mehbooba government.

"We respect the ceasefire," Sitharaman said, adding that India "won't stop if provoked."

India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire on Sunday leading to the death of 2 BSF soldiers on Sunday after agreeing to the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

"We will respond if Pakistan does not honour the ceasefire," the defence minister&nbsp;added.

On the state of India's defence forces,&nbsp;Sitharaman said maximum defence spending in a decade had happened last year.

"There is no real cash crush for the forces," she said.

India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan

Reiterating foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's view, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that talks and terror can't go together, in reference to cross-border terror attacks. Addressing a press conference, Sitharam said the government had consulted with the Indian Army about the ceasefire. India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan, a move which was applauded by the Mehbooba government. "We respect the ceasefire," Sitharaman said, adding that India "won't stop if provoked." India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire on Sunday leading to the death of 2 BSF soldiers on Sunday after agreeing to the 2003 ceasefire agreement. "We will respond if Pakistan does not honour the ceasefire," the defence minister added. On the state of India's defence forces, Sitharaman said maximum defence spending in a decade had happened last year. "There is no real cash crush for the forces," she said.

Talks and terror can't go together: Defence minister Sitharaman to Pakistan

Amid firing along<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/after-cross-border-firing-rajnath-singh-to-visit-jk-to-review-security-142058"> LoC, Pakistan today asked</a> for a sector commander-level meeting reports said.

Two BSF personnel died on Sunday as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district.

Reports said the meeting will be held today at Octroi in Jammu at 5 pm.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is due to visit Jammu and Kashmir this week to review the ceasefire which came into effect last week after DGMOs of India and Pakistan decided to implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

However, after Sunday's firing, the government ministers including MoS Home Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

Two BSF personnel died on Sunday as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour.

Amid firing along LoC, Pakistan today asked for a sector commander-level meeting reports said. Two BSF personnel died on Sunday as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district. Reports said the meeting will be held today at Octroi in Jammu at 5 pm. Home minister Rajnath Singh is due to visit Jammu and Kashmir this week to review the ceasefire which came into effect last week after DGMOs of India and Pakistan decided to implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement. However, after Sunday's firing, the government ministers including MoS Home Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

After firing along LoC, Pakistan asks for commander-level meeting

A day after two Border Security Force personnel died in a cross firing along the International Border, three civilians are reported to be injured in the firing by Pakistan.

The cross-border firing from across the international border in going on from Saturday in Akhnoor, Jammu.

Further details related to the incident are awaited.

The two BSF personnel who lost their lives on Sunday morning includes an assistant sub-inspector. They were shot while they were manning a forward post.&nbsp;

They immediately were taken to the hospital but succumbed to injuries.

The firing from across the border -- a violation of the ceasefire agreement -- prompted a strong and effective retaliation by the BSF, PTI reported a senior officer as saying.

On May 29, the DGMOs of India and Pakistan agreed to "fully implement" the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit" forthwith to stop border skirmishes in J&K.

The two military commanders reviewed the prevailing situation along the LoC and the IB in J&K during a conversation over the special hotline.

The hotline contact was initiated by the Pakistani DGMO.

Following the conversation between Indian DGMO Lt Gen Anil Chauhan and Pakistan's Maj Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the two armies issued identical statements saying both sides agreed to implement the 15-year-old ceasefire understanding.

The latest deaths in the Pakistani firing raised the casualty figure during ceasefire violations along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) in the state to 46. The dead includes 20 security personnel.

Last month, thousands of people residing along the IB in Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts had to flee their homes following intense shelling from Pakistan between May 15 and May 23 which left 12 people dead, including two BSF jawans and an infant, and scores of others injured.

After the DGMOs of the two countries spoke to each other, hope rekindled among border residents who had started returning to their homes but the latest incident would trigger fresh concerns among them.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
BSF's Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and ASI Satya Narayan Yadav, who were injured in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Akhnoor, succumbed to their injuries. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/OXgly9L6IZ">pic.twitter.com/OXgly9L6IZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1003124392312823808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Firing from Pakistan has been on since 2.30 am, we did not sleep since then, all of us here are very scared: Akhnoor local. Two BSF personnel had lost their lives in cross-border firing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/xlbWNIGoqV">pic.twitter.com/xlbWNIGoqV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1003115713412788226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: Pakistan indulges in cross-border firing in Akhnoor, visuals from the area. 2 BSF jawans lost their lives & 3 civilians were injured. Firing started at 0115 hours, BSF is retaliating. <a href="https://t.co/48Lu7e9sWC">pic.twitter.com/48Lu7e9sWC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1003135943354638337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The cross-border firing from across the international border in going on from Saturday in Akhnoor, Jammu

A day after two Border Security Force personnel died in a cross firing along the International Border, three civilians are reported to be injured in the firing by Pakistan. The cross-border firing from across the international border in going on from Saturday in Akhnoor, Jammu. Further details related to the incident are awaited. The two BSF personnel who lost their lives on Sunday morning includes an assistant sub-inspector. They were shot while they were manning a forward post. They immediately were taken to the hospital but succumbed to injuries. The firing from across the border -- a violation of the ceasefire agreement -- prompted a strong and effective retaliation by the BSF, PTI reported a senior officer as saying. On May 29, the DGMOs of India and Pakistan agreed to "fully implement" the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit" forthwith to stop border skirmishes in J&K. The two military commanders reviewed the prevailing situation along the LoC and the IB in J&K during a conversation over the special hotline. The hotline contact was initiated by the Pakistani DGMO. Following the conversation between Indian DGMO Lt Gen Anil Chauhan and Pakistan's Maj Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the two armies issued identical statements saying both sides agreed to implement the 15-year-old ceasefire understanding. The latest deaths in the Pakistani firing raised the casualty figure during ceasefire violations along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) in the state to 46. The dead includes 20 security personnel. Last month, thousands of people residing along the IB in Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts had to flee their homes following intense shelling from Pakistan between May 15 and May 23 which left 12 people dead, including two BSF jawans and an infant, and scores of others injured. After the DGMOs of the two countries spoke to each other, hope rekindled among border residents who had started returning to their homes but the latest incident would trigger fresh concerns among them. BSF's Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and ASI Satya Narayan Yadav, who were injured in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Akhnoor, succumbed to their injuries. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/OXgly9L6IZ — ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018 × Firing from Pakistan has been on since 2.30 am, we did not sleep since then, all of us here are very scared: Akhnoor local. Two BSF personnel had lost their lives in cross-border firing. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/xlbWNIGoqV — ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018 × #JammuAndKashmir: Pakistan indulges in cross-border firing in Akhnoor, visuals from the area. 2 BSF jawans lost their lives & 3 civilians were injured. Firing started at 0115 hours, BSF is retaliating. pic.twitter.com/48Lu7e9sWC — ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018 × (With inputs from PTI)

Two BSF jawans killed, 3 civilians injured as Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir

Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day.

"The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we benefit from it," Mehbooba said addressing a convention of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mehbooba said the ceasefire and talks offer an opportunity to the separatists to stop bloodshed in Jammu and Kashmir.

"There are other parties who are not in the mainstream, and if they have some other agenda, they have an opportunity now if they want to stop bloodshed in J&K. We always say that there has to be a political solution to J&K and the army or CRPF or police cannot resolve it.&nbsp

"It can only be resolved politically thorough dialogue. And when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stake holders to come forward to save J&K and its economy," she said.&nbsp

While the Centre announced unilateral ceasefire for the holy month of Ramadhan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently said the Centre was ready to talk to separatists in the valley if they are willing for a dialogue.

The chief minister said while she cannot force the separatists, they have to think on giving the youth in Kashmir a way out from the stone and gun culture.

"We cannot force you or give you a dictation, but can only request&nbspeven a day before yesterday a youth got killed after he came under a vehicle during stone-pelting. He was an orphan but why take to stone-pelting. Why not give them a way out from this morass, from stone or gun culture," she said.

Putting the onus on the separatists, Mehbooba said the mainstream parties in the state gave them an opportunity by providing an atmosphere for talks and now it was up to the separatists to take advantage of the opportunity.

"We, mainstream parties, gave you unilateral ceasefire and an atmosphere for talks, now it is up to you - the separatists. I request them that it is an opportunity, that you always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward to achieve a political solution. So, today you have an offer of dialogue".&nbsp

"They (Centre) are saying come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of this morass and difficult time, then all be it mainstream parties or separatists have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day," she said, adding "I request all the leaders (separatists) " you are very tall leaders - but right now use this opportunity of talks to save J&K. Come forward and talk".

She said the eyes of the whole country were on Kashmir and if the people here lose this opportunity, then no one will support or advocate for them tomorrow.

"The Home Minister of this country is saying they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If we lose this opportunity, nobody will support us tomorrow, no one will advocate for us. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide and how they try to save the people of Kashmir, especially its youth. If we have to save J&K, this is an opportunity for us," Mehbooba said.&nbsp

Amidst reports of more youth joining militant ranks, the chief minister said the increase in the militancy would only increase the footprints of the security forces in the valley.

"The increase in the number of youth picking up guns will increase the presence of army, CRPF and the police here. The more the situation improves, the more we can tell Army, CRPF or police that your role is over and you reduce your footprints," she said.

Referring to the spate of grenade attacks over the last few days, Mehbooba said gun or grenade attacks achieve nothing.

"Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that army or CRPF jawans have come from far-flung areas for their bread and butter, what will this achieve".

"There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? We have achieved Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, Poonch-Rawalkote road and if the situation improves, I promise you that we will re-open more such routes," she said.

The chief minister also batted for talks between India and Pakistan and condemned the ceasefire violations on the border.

"Till both the countries come closer, situation will not improve. J&K bears the maximum impact of the relationship between India and Pakistan. So, our party's agenda is that they should talk to each other," she said.

Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from 'bloodshed', Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day

Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day. "The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we benefit from it," Mehbooba said addressing a convention of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mehbooba said the ceasefire and talks offer an opportunity to the separatists to stop bloodshed in Jammu and Kashmir. "There are other parties who are not in the mainstream, and if they have some other agenda, they have an opportunity now if they want to stop bloodshed in J&K. We always say that there has to be a political solution to J&K and the army or CRPF or police cannot resolve it. "It can only be resolved politically thorough dialogue. And when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stake holders to come forward to save J&K and its economy," she said. While the Centre announced unilateral ceasefire for the holy month of Ramadhan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently said the Centre was ready to talk to separatists in the valley if they are willing for a dialogue. The chief minister said while she cannot force the separatists, they have to think on giving the youth in Kashmir a way out from the stone and gun culture. "We cannot force you or give you a dictation, but can only request&nbspeven a day before yesterday a youth got killed after he came under a vehicle during stone-pelting. He was an orphan but why take to stone-pelting. Why not give them a way out from this morass, from stone or gun culture," she said. Putting the onus on the separatists, Mehbooba said the mainstream parties in the state gave them an opportunity by providing an atmosphere for talks and now it was up to the separatists to take advantage of the opportunity. "We, mainstream parties, gave you unilateral ceasefire and an atmosphere for talks, now it is up to you - the separatists. I request them that it is an opportunity, that you always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward to achieve a political solution. So, today you have an offer of dialogue". "They (Centre) are saying come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of this morass and difficult time, then all be it mainstream parties or separatists have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day," she said, adding "I request all the leaders (separatists) " you are very tall leaders - but right now use this opportunity of talks to save J&K. Come forward and talk". She said the eyes of the whole country were on Kashmir and if the people here lose this opportunity, then no one will support or advocate for them tomorrow. "The Home Minister of this country is saying they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If we lose this opportunity, nobody will support us tomorrow, no one will advocate for us. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide and how they try to save the people of Kashmir, especially its youth. If we have to save J&K, this is an opportunity for us," Mehbooba said. Amidst reports of more youth joining militant ranks, the chief minister said the increase in the militancy would only increase the footprints of the security forces in the valley. "The increase in the number of youth picking up guns will increase the presence of army, CRPF and the police here. The more the situation improves, the more we can tell Army, CRPF or police that your role is over and you reduce your footprints," she said. Referring to the spate of grenade attacks over the last few days, Mehbooba said gun or grenade attacks achieve nothing. "Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that army or CRPF jawans have come from far-flung areas for their bread and butter, what will this achieve". "There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? We have achieved Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, Poonch-Rawalkote road and if the situation improves, I promise you that we will re-open more such routes," she said. The chief minister also batted for talks between India and Pakistan and condemned the ceasefire violations on the border. "Till both the countries come closer, situation will not improve. J&K bears the maximum impact of the relationship between India and Pakistan. So, our party's agenda is that they should talk to each other," she said.

Ceasefire, dialogue offer opportunity to save J&K from bloodshed: Mehbooba

Pakistan's outgoing defence and foreign minister said today that positive developments had been made in giving India non-discriminatory market access (NDMA) on the pattern of most-favoured nation status but the decision was delayed due to the regional situation.

Khurram Dastagir Khan was addressing the media in the Foreign Office here on the last day of the current PML-N government. He was asked about reports on giving India MFN status.

"Negotiations were ongoing to grant India non-discriminatory market access (NDMA). In this regard, we had many positive developments. But in view of the developments in the region, it was decided that this would be dealt with at a time more congenial and appropriate for the two countries," he said.

He said the Indian leadership after the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi started issuing "aggressive statements and postures against Pakistan" but Pakistan in reaction followed a measured approach to provocations.

"We believe that regional connectivity and enhanced regional cooperation is the panacea for all ills facing our region," he said, adding "Pakistan faces Indian aggressive posture on the LoC and WB with equal and proportionate equanimity".

He hoped for a new vigour in ties with India after the upcoming general election in Pakistan.

"With a new government in Pakistan in less than three months, and one to form in India next year, we hope that a fresh vigour and mandate will be brought to the relations between both countries," he said. 
At one point the minister said that Pakistan adopted "a future oriented approach" with India but "our gestures were not reciprocated".

"In return, we have received negativity and aggression from India, with no dialogue at any level. We really hope that the new governments in both Pakistan and India are able to instill a fresh impetus in the relations between both the countries," he said.

He, however also warned India over continued firing across the Line of Control.

"If India has an assessment that it can pressurise Pakistan by deliberately heating up the LoC and the WB (working boundary), they are mistaken. We are vigilant at our physical, as well as ideological and diplomatic borders and are fully prepared to defend and safeguard them," he said.

"A large number of population in the South Asian region lives below the poverty line. Therefore, it is very important that economic and regional connectivity takes place, as other regions have managed to do so. But there has been no reciprocity so far from the Indian side," he said.

The minister also welcomed the statement after the recent Indo-Pak DGMOs meeting to restore the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

"The agreement recently reached by the DGMOs is a welcome development. This is the same 2003 agreement that both sides have pledged to honour and uphold. With this, a working level understanding on ground has been established," he said.&nbsp;

Khan welcomed the statement after the recent Indo-Pak DGMOs meeting to restore the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

Pakistan's outgoing defence and foreign minister said today that positive developments had been made in giving India non-discriminatory market access (NDMA) on the pattern of most-favoured nation status but the decision was delayed due to the regional situation. Khurram Dastagir Khan was addressing the media in the Foreign Office here on the last day of the current PML-N government. He was asked about reports on giving India MFN status. "Negotiations were ongoing to grant India non-discriminatory market access (NDMA). In this regard, we had many positive developments. But in view of the developments in the region, it was decided that this would be dealt with at a time more congenial and appropriate for the two countries," he said. He said the Indian leadership after the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi started issuing "aggressive statements and postures against Pakistan" but Pakistan in reaction followed a measured approach to provocations. "We believe that regional connectivity and enhanced regional cooperation is the panacea for all ills facing our region," he said, adding "Pakistan faces Indian aggressive posture on the LoC and WB with equal and proportionate equanimity". He hoped for a new vigour in ties with India after the upcoming general election in Pakistan. "With a new government in Pakistan in less than three months, and one to form in India next year, we hope that a fresh vigour and mandate will be brought to the relations between both countries," he said. At one point the minister said that Pakistan adopted "a future oriented approach" with India but "our gestures were not reciprocated". "In return, we have received negativity and aggression from India, with no dialogue at any level. We really hope that the new governments in both Pakistan and India are able to instill a fresh impetus in the relations between both the countries," he said. He, however also warned India over continued firing across the Line of Control. "If India has an assessment that it can pressurise Pakistan by deliberately heating up the LoC and the WB (working boundary), they are mistaken. We are vigilant at our physical, as well as ideological and diplomatic borders and are fully prepared to defend and safeguard them," he said. "A large number of population in the South Asian region lives below the poverty line. Therefore, it is very important that economic and regional connectivity takes place, as other regions have managed to do so. But there has been no reciprocity so far from the Indian side," he said. The minister also welcomed the statement after the recent Indo-Pak DGMOs meeting to restore the 2003 ceasefire agreement. "The agreement recently reached by the DGMOs is a welcome development. This is the same 2003 agreement that both sides have pledged to honour and uphold. With this, a working level understanding on ground has been established," he said.

Positive developments with India on granting market access: Pakistan

India today summoned deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah &nbsp;and lodged a strong protest over the loss of life of a seven month old infant in unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces on Tuesday.

The firing had occurred in the Bhimber sector across the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir.

India said the Pakistan forces deliberately targeting of innocent civilians who were located away from the forward line of defences.

The Pakistan Army used small and high caliber weapons which is highly deplorable, Indian officials told Shah.

Targeting of innocent civilians including young children is against all established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct, India told the Pakistan deputy High Commissioner.

India asked Pakistan to investigate the killing of innocent civilians and instructed it to desist from such acts. The Indian side also conveyed its displeasure at the &nbsp;continued unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations across the LoC and the International boundary.

More than 1,088 violations have been carried out by Pakistan forces at LoC and the International Boundary so far this year which has led 36 people being killed and injured at least 127 others, the government said.

In 2018, Indian security forces thwarted attempts by 53 terrorists to infiltrate and neutralized 5 terrorists as they tried to cross the LoC.

The Pakistan Army used small and high caliber weapons which is highly deplorable, Indian officials told Shah.

India today summoned deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, Syed Haider Shah and lodged a strong protest over the loss of life of a seven month old infant in unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces on Tuesday. The firing had occurred in the Bhimber sector across the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir. India said the Pakistan forces deliberately targeting of innocent civilians who were located away from the forward line of defences. The Pakistan Army used small and high caliber weapons which is highly deplorable, Indian officials told Shah. Targeting of innocent civilians including young children is against all established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct, India told the Pakistan deputy High Commissioner. India asked Pakistan to investigate the killing of innocent civilians and instructed it to desist from such acts. The Indian side also conveyed its displeasure at the continued unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations across the LoC and the International boundary. More than 1,088 violations have been carried out by Pakistan forces at LoC and the International Boundary so far this year which has led 36 people being killed and injured at least 127 others, the government said. In 2018, Indian security forces thwarted attempts by 53 terrorists to infiltrate and neutralized 5 terrorists as they tried to cross the LoC.

India summons Pak deputy High Commissioner over firing along LoC

The World Bank today described as "incorrect" media reports in Pakistan about allegations that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif laundered $4.9 billion to India.&nbsp

In the past day, there have been media reports citing the World Bank's Remittances and Migration Report of 2016.&nbsp

These media reports were "incorrect", the World Bank said in a statement here.&nbsp

The World Bank's Remittances and Migration Report is an effort by the World Bank to estimate migration and remittances numbers across the world, it said.&nbsp

The report does not include any mention of money laundering nor does it name any individuals,&nbspsaid the World Bank, which was issued after media reports cited its annual report for allegations that Sharif laundered $4.9 billion from Pakistan to India.&nbsp

In its annual report, the statement said that the World Bank estimates bilateral remittances between countries using the methodology summarised in the World Bank Working Paper 102 South-South migration and remittances by the authors of the report.&nbsp

The World Bank also referred to a statement by the State Bank of Pakistan which rejects estimates of $4.9 billion in remittances from Pakistan to India on September 21, 2016, and provides an explanation of the methodology used in the World Bank report and the official remittances numbers. &nbsp

The World Bank also referred to a statement by the State Bank of Pakistan which rejects estimates of $4.9 billion in remittances from Pakistan to India on September 21, 2016

The World Bank today described as "incorrect" media reports in Pakistan about allegations that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif laundered $4.9 billion to India. In the past day, there have been media reports citing the World Bank's Remittances and Migration Report of 2016. These media reports were "incorrect", the World Bank said in a statement here. The World Bank's Remittances and Migration Report is an effort by the World Bank to estimate migration and remittances numbers across the world, it said. The report does not include any mention of money laundering nor does it name any individuals,&nbspsaid the World Bank, which was issued after media reports cited its annual report for allegations that Sharif laundered $4.9 billion from Pakistan to India. In its annual report, the statement said that the World Bank estimates bilateral remittances between countries using the methodology summarised in the World Bank Working Paper 102 South-South migration and remittances by the authors of the report. The World Bank also referred to a statement by the State Bank of Pakistan which rejects estimates of $4.9 billion in remittances from Pakistan to India on September 21, 2016, and provides an explanation of the methodology used in the World Bank report and the official remittances numbers.

Reports linking Nawaz Sharif laundering $4.9 billion to India 'incorrect': World Bank

Australian journalist Dennis Freedman was trolled on social media after he said Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir was a "verbal terrorist" over his views on India-Pak relations.

News agency ANI had quoted Team India's ex-opener saying: "Merely boycotting cricketing ties with Pakistan will not help. If a ban is imposed, it should be in all sectors, be it films, music or any other. Nobody from Pakistan should be provided an opportunity to perform in India unless the relations between the two neighbours improve."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Gautam Gambhir is a verbal terrorist. 
 
The crap he said again today re relationship between India / Pakistan is dangerous.
— Dennis Jai Hind (@DennisCricket_) <a href="https://twitter.com/DennisCricket_/status/989812943565934592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Freedman attacked Gambhir saying "crap he said again about India/Pakistan relationship is dangerous".

"In the recent past we have initiated talks with Pakistan on many occasions but no substantial outcome has been achieved. Every country has its own level of patience and importance. First thing, of course, is to talk. But if that doesn't work, one has to take strict action," said Gambhir.

Interestingly, Dennis' status message on Twitter reads: "Virat Kohli sends me memes on Whatsapp."&nbsp;

Indians on social media, however, decided to take on Freedman for his comments against Gambhir who recently stepped down as captain of Delhi's IPL team:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Now we know why that Englishman called you "Jobless pig"....and please don't put your dirty nose in our issue..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dennisfreedman?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dennisfreedman</a>
— Amit Kulkarni (@Amit67861202) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amit67861202/status/990812732223041536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Gautam Gambhir had ceded his position as captain of <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiDaredevils?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiDaredevils</a> to allow Dennis Freedman to take over.?
— sunil jha (@jhasunil530) <a href="https://twitter.com/jhasunil530/status/989101479091814402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Gambhir had earlier got into a Twitter duel with Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over his comments on Kashmir.

Freedman attacked Gambhir saying "crap he said again about India/Pakistan relationship is dangerous".

Australian journalist Dennis Freedman was trolled on social media after he said Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir was a "verbal terrorist" over his views on India-Pak relations. News agency ANI had quoted Team India's ex-opener saying: "Merely boycotting cricketing ties with Pakistan will not help. If a ban is imposed, it should be in all sectors, be it films, music or any other. Nobody from Pakistan should be provided an opportunity to perform in India unless the relations between the two neighbours improve." Gautam Gambhir is a verbal terrorist. The crap he said again today re relationship between India / Pakistan is dangerous. — Dennis Jai Hind (@DennisCricket_) April 27, 2018 × Freedman attacked Gambhir saying "crap he said again about India/Pakistan relationship is dangerous". "In the recent past we have initiated talks with Pakistan on many occasions but no substantial outcome has been achieved. Every country has its own level of patience and importance. First thing, of course, is to talk. But if that doesn't work, one has to take strict action," said Gambhir. Interestingly, Dennis' status message on Twitter reads: "Virat Kohli sends me memes on Whatsapp." Indians on social media, however, decided to take on Freedman for his comments against Gambhir who recently stepped down as captain of Delhi's IPL team: Now we know why that Englishman called you "Jobless pig"....and please don't put your dirty nose in our issue..#dennisfreedman — Amit Kulkarni (@Amit67861202) April 30, 2018 × Gautam Gambhir had ceded his position as captain of @DelhiDaredevils to allow Dennis Freedman to take over.? — sunil jha (@jhasunil530) April 25, 2018 × Gambhir had earlier got into a Twitter duel with Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over his comments on Kashmir.

Australian journalist Freedman calls Gambhir 'verbal terrorist', Indians on social media hit back

Iran said today that it is ready to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-india-pak-afghan-officials-bond-over-tapi-gas-pipeline-33808">swap the TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India)</a> pipeline from&nbspTurkmenistan to India but it is unlikely to become operational, Iran's FARS news agency reported.

The 1,840-kilometre gas pipeline is set to run from &nbspTurkmenistan through Afghanistan and Pakistan to India. India's participation in the pipeline has been in doubt for several years over its relations with Pakistan with Indian authorities fearing terrorists may disrupt the gas line.

"I see it unlikely for the TAPI pipeline to become operational and Iran is ready for this swap to Pakistan," head of National Iranian Gas Company, Hamidreza Araqi, said.

The pipeline is set to pump gas from Turkmenistan's Galkynysh gas field in 2020.

"We have announced our readiness to Turkmenistan for exporting their natural gas to Pakistan, but have not received any response from them," Araqi added.

Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, MJ Akbar had said earlier that the TAPI project was "a dove in a storm" underscoring the importance it held for India.

"Given Iran's situation in the centre of the region, we can join every gas pipeline that passes around the country," Araqi told FARS.

The pipeline showcases the complex geopolitical matrix in the region with strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan also between India and Pakistan.

The pipeline will have a capacity to carry 33 billion cubic meters gas from Turkmenistan to Pakistan and India through Afghanistan.

India's MoS MJ Akbar had said TAPI should be become "People's Pipeline." 
&nbsp

The pipeline is set to pump gas from Turkmenistan's Galkynysh gas field in 2020.

Iran said today that it is ready to swap the TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India) pipeline from&nbspTurkmenistan to India but it is unlikely to become operational, Iran's FARS news agency reported. The 1,840-kilometre gas pipeline is set to run from &nbspTurkmenistan through Afghanistan and Pakistan to India. India's participation in the pipeline has been in doubt for several years over its relations with Pakistan with Indian authorities fearing terrorists may disrupt the gas line. "I see it unlikely for the TAPI pipeline to become operational and Iran is ready for this swap to Pakistan," head of National Iranian Gas Company, Hamidreza Araqi, said. The pipeline is set to pump gas from Turkmenistan's Galkynysh gas field in 2020. "We have announced our readiness to Turkmenistan for exporting their natural gas to Pakistan, but have not received any response from them," Araqi added. Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, MJ Akbar had said earlier that the TAPI project was "a dove in a storm" underscoring the importance it held for India. "Given Iran's situation in the centre of the region, we can join every gas pipeline that passes around the country," Araqi told FARS. The pipeline showcases the complex geopolitical matrix in the region with strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan also between India and Pakistan. The pipeline will have a capacity to carry 33 billion cubic meters gas from Turkmenistan to Pakistan and India through Afghanistan. India's MoS MJ Akbar had said TAPI should be become "People's Pipeline."

Turkmenistan-India gas pipeline unlikely: Iran gas company

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-talks-of-ease-of-doing-business-congress-believes-in-ease-of-doing-murder-modi-in-karnataka-134040">Govt talks of 'ease of doing business', Congress believes in 'ease of doing murder': Modi in Karnataka's Udupi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing his second rally of the day in Karnataka, once again went on the offensive against the Congress.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-revive-track-ii-diplomacy-delegation-visits-islamabad-for-talks-134019">India-Pakistan revive Track-II diplomacy, delegation visits Islamabad for talks</a>

India has restarted its Track-II diplomacy — the Neemrana Dialogue — with Pakistan. News reports said Tuesday than an Indian delegation visited Pakistan from April 28 to 30.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-syrian-man-stuck-at-malaysia-airport-for-54-days--134025">Video: Syrian man stuck at Kuala Lumpur airport for 54 days, dubs plight 'The Terminal Part 2'</a>

A Syrian man has been stranded inside Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia for over a month and has nowhere to go.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-activists-demand-abolition-of-1949-karachi-agreement-134012">Activists demand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-activists-demand-abolition-of-1949-karachi-agreement-134012">abolition</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-activists-demand-abolition-of-1949-karachi-agreement-134012"> of 1949 Karachi Agreement which gives Pakistan control over PoK</a>

Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) carried out a protest rally in Rawalpindi city against the Karachi Agreement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-netanyahu-an-infamous-liar-comments-aimed-to-influence-trump---134057">Iran: Netanyahu an 'infamous liar,' comments aimed to influence Trump</a>

Iran on Tuesday called Israel Prime Minister an "infamous liar" after his comments over Iran having secret nuclear weapons program that could increase pressure on the United States to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Govt talks of 'ease of doing business', Congress believes in 'ease of doing murder': Modi in Karnataka's Udupi Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing his second rally of the day in Karnataka, once again went on the offensive against the Congress. India-Pakistan revive Track-II diplomacy, delegation visits Islamabad for talks India has restarted its Track-II diplomacy — the Neemrana Dialogue — with Pakistan. News reports said Tuesday than an Indian delegation visited Pakistan from April 28 to 30. Video: Syrian man stuck at Kuala Lumpur airport for 54 days, dubs plight 'The Terminal Part 2' A Syrian man has been stranded inside Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia for over a month and has nowhere to go. Activists demand abolition of 1949 Karachi Agreement which gives Pakistan control over PoK Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) carried out a protest rally in Rawalpindi city against the Karachi Agreement. Iran: Netanyahu an 'infamous liar,' comments aimed to influence Trump Iran on Tuesday called Israel Prime Minister an "infamous liar" after his comments over Iran having secret nuclear weapons program that could increase pressure on the United States to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India and Pakistan military forces are set to take part in a multilateral military exercise&nbsp;in September under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Russia.

Pakistan and India were inducted into the SCO in June last year at Astana amid apprehensions about the two neighbours getting along during joint operations.

The SCO was founded in June&nbsp;2001 by&nbsp;China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia&nbsp;and Tajikistan.

The group conducts counter-terror exercises every two years as part of its drill to keep its forces combat-ready and to ensure coordination in counter-terror operations

However, both countries haven't confirmed their participation in the military drills but analysts say Russia and China are keen to have the South Asian neighbours to participate&nbsp;in the week-long exercise.

Under the SCO terms, India and Pakistan are now automatically part of the Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure(RATS) based in Tashkent, Russia.

The operation titled ‘Peace Mission-2018’ will involve a large number of troops, especially from Russia and China.

Observers will be keenly watching how India and Pakistan take up their new role in the SCO which also involves all countries to mandatorily share&nbsp;terror intelligence. 
&nbsp;

The operation titled ‘Peace Mission-2018’ will involve a large number of troops, especially from Russia and China.

India and Pakistan military forces are set to take part in a multilateral military exercise in September under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Russia. Pakistan and India were inducted into the SCO in June last year at Astana amid apprehensions about the two neighbours getting along during joint operations. The SCO was founded in June 2001 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan. The group conducts counter-terror exercises every two years as part of its drill to keep its forces combat-ready and to ensure coordination in counter-terror operations However, both countries haven't confirmed their participation in the military drills but analysts say Russia and China are keen to have the South Asian neighbours to participate in the week-long exercise. Under the SCO terms, India and Pakistan are now automatically part of the Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure(RATS) based in Tashkent, Russia. The operation titled ‘Peace Mission-2018’ will involve a large number of troops, especially from Russia and China. Observers will be keenly watching how India and Pakistan take up their new role in the SCO which also involves all countries to mandatorily share terror intelligence.

Watch: India, Pakistan may take part in joint military drill in Russia under SCO membership

India on Tuesday submitted its reply in the International Court of Justice in connection with the Kulbhushan Jadhav case.

This is India's second written pleadings in the court after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kulbhushan-jadhav-case-india-submits-written-pleadings-to-the-international-court-of-justice-20184">first filed&nbsp;on September 12, 2017</a>.

In response to the first pleadings, Pakistan filed its counter-reply to the International court on December 13.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pro-pakistan-statements-by-kulbhushan-jadhav-due-to-force-and-torture-baloch-activist-30152">Pro-Pakistan statements by Kulbhushan Jadhav due to force and torture: Baloch activist</a>

Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism by a Pakistani military court in April last year.

The International Court of Justice in May had halted his execution on India's appeal.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opinion-why-i-am-disgusted-at-the-unethical-way-pakistan-treated-jadhavs-family-27949">Opinion: Why I am disgusted at the unethical way Pakistan treated Jadhav's family</a>

Pakistan claims its security forces arrested him from restive Balochistan province on March 3 in 2016 after he reportedly entered from Iran. However, India maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Indian Navy. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In keeping with the Order of the International Court of Justice of 17 January 2018, India today submitted its Reply in the Court in the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986240910210973696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

 
&nbsp;

This is India's second written pleadings in the court after the first filed on September 12, 2017

India on Tuesday submitted its reply in the International Court of Justice in connection with the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. This is India's second written pleadings in the court after the first filed on September 12, 2017. In response to the first pleadings, Pakistan filed its counter-reply to the International court on December 13. Also read: Pro-Pakistan statements by Kulbhushan Jadhav due to force and torture: Baloch activist Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism by a Pakistani military court in April last year. The International Court of Justice in May had halted his execution on India's appeal. Also read: Opinion: Why I am disgusted at the unethical way Pakistan treated Jadhav's family Pakistan claims its security forces arrested him from restive Balochistan province on March 3 in 2016 after he reportedly entered from Iran. However, India maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Indian Navy. In keeping with the Order of the International Court of Justice of 17 January 2018, India today submitted its Reply in the Court in the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav. — ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2018 ×

India submits second reply to ICJ in Kulbhushan Jadhav case

After India <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-pak-deputy-high-commissioner-over-attempts-to-block-consular-access-to-sikh-pilgrims-130865?first_load=no">summoned Pakistan's deputy high </a>commissioner Syed Haider Shah over Pakistan's refusal to allow consular access to Sikh pilgrims in Punjab province, Shah said &nbsp;Islamabad is "always happy to host Sikh pilgrims".

On Tuesday, India had summoned Pakistan's deputy high commissioner and lodged a protest over attempts being made to raise the Khalistan issue during the visit of Sikh pilgrims.

India said it violates&nbsp;the spirit of the bilateral protocol of 1974 governing the exchange of visits of pilgrims between the two countries.

Around 1,800 Sikh pilgrims are on a visit to Pakistan for the past week under a bilateral agreement between the two countries facilitating visits to religious shrines.

India's ministry of external affairs said the Indian High Commissioner, who was to greet Indian pilgrims on the occasion of Baisakhi, was compelled to return when he was en route to Gurdwara Panja Sahib.&nbsp;

However, the Pakistan side dismissed India's view, &nbsp;foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that it was "deeply regrettable that facts in this matter had been completely distorted and misrepresented."&nbsp;

Faisal said the Secretary of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) had extended an invitation to the High Commissioner of India to attend the main function of Baisakhi at the Gurdwara Panja Sahib on April 14 and the foreign ministry granted the travel permission to him. &nbsp;

"However, in the run-up to the main function, the ETPB authorities noticed strong resentment among segments of Sikh Yatrees, gathered there from different parts of the world, protesting the release in India of some film on Baba Guru Nanak Devji. &nbsp;

"Considering an emotionally charged environment and the possibility of any untoward situation, the ETPB authorities contacted the Indian High Commission officials and suggested cancellation of the visit," Faisal claimed.&nbsp;

India's ministry of external affairs said the Indian High Commissioner, who was to greet Indian pilgrims on the occasion of Baisakhi, was compelled to return when he was en route to Gurdwara Panja Sahib.

After India summoned Pakistan's deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah over Pakistan's refusal to allow consular access to Sikh pilgrims in Punjab province, Shah said Islamabad is "always happy to host Sikh pilgrims". On Tuesday, India had summoned Pakistan's deputy high commissioner and lodged a protest over attempts being made to raise the Khalistan issue during the visit of Sikh pilgrims. India said it violates the spirit of the bilateral protocol of 1974 governing the exchange of visits of pilgrims between the two countries. Around 1,800 Sikh pilgrims are on a visit to Pakistan for the past week under a bilateral agreement between the two countries facilitating visits to religious shrines. India's ministry of external affairs said the Indian High Commissioner, who was to greet Indian pilgrims on the occasion of Baisakhi, was compelled to return when he was en route to Gurdwara Panja Sahib. However, the Pakistan side dismissed India's view, foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that it was "deeply regrettable that facts in this matter had been completely distorted and misrepresented." Faisal said the Secretary of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) had extended an invitation to the High Commissioner of India to attend the main function of Baisakhi at the Gurdwara Panja Sahib on April 14 and the foreign ministry granted the travel permission to him. "However, in the run-up to the main function, the ETPB authorities noticed strong resentment among segments of Sikh Yatrees, gathered there from different parts of the world, protesting the release in India of some film on Baba Guru Nanak Devji. "Considering an emotionally charged environment and the possibility of any untoward situation, the ETPB authorities contacted the Indian High Commission officials and suggested cancellation of the visit," Faisal claimed.

'Always happy to host Sikh pilgrims,' says Pakistan deputy high commissioner after India summons

In a sign <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-build-3-dams-on-chenab-pm-modi-reviews-indus-treaty-with-pakistan-6811">of renewed reengagement</a> amid tensions on the border, Pakistan today&nbsp;sought permission from India to undertake inspection of Indian projects on&nbsp;the Indus river basin.

Newswire PTI quoting&nbsp;<a 560="" href="<iframe width=">sources said that India will</a> likely arrange a tour by the&nbsp;Pakistani delegation in accordance to the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty(IWT).

India had allowed Pak officials to visit its side of the Indus river basin four years ago in Pakal Dul and Lower Kalnai. Pakistan this time has requested for a general tour of various Indian projects on the Indus river basin.&nbsp;

Pakistan maintains that India's designs of Pakal Dul (1000 MW) and Lower Kalnai (48 MW) located in the Chenab basin in J&K violates the IWT agreement signed in 1960.&nbsp;

India, however, disagrees with Pakistan asserting that it is being done in line with the provisions of the water sharing pact.

Pakistan's latest move comes after a two-day meeting with India's Indus water commissioner P K Saxena, technical experts and a representative of the Ministry of External Affairs.

PTI reported that India offered the Pakistan delegation discussion on Ratle located in J&K which was being objected by Islamabad earlier. The Pakistan delegation declined the offer, saying the issue is already being discussed at&nbsp;the secretary-level.

The Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) is an established mechanism under the IWT, which mandates it to establish and maintain cooperative arrangements for the implementation of the water distribution pact and to promote cooperation between the two sides in the development of the Indus water systems.

The IWT covers the water distribution and sharing rights of six rivers - Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum.

The treaty specifies that waters from the three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum and Chenab - be reserved for Pakistan, while waters from eastern rivers - Ravi, Sutlej and Beas - are reserved for India.

The meeting of the PIC is held alternately in India and Pakistan at least once every year as mandated by the treaty.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qegTsryK5dk" width="560"></iframe>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The IWT covers the water distribution and sharing rights of six rivers - Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum.

In a sign of renewed reengagement amid tensions on the border, Pakistan today sought permission from India to undertake inspection of Indian projects on the Indus river basin. Newswire PTI quoting sources said that India will likely arrange a tour by the Pakistani delegation in accordance to the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty(IWT). India had allowed Pak officials to visit its side of the Indus river basin four years ago in Pakal Dul and Lower Kalnai. Pakistan this time has requested for a general tour of various Indian projects on the Indus river basin. Pakistan maintains that India's designs of Pakal Dul (1000 MW) and Lower Kalnai (48 MW) located in the Chenab basin in J&K violates the IWT agreement signed in 1960. India, however, disagrees with Pakistan asserting that it is being done in line with the provisions of the water sharing pact. Pakistan's latest move comes after a two-day meeting with India's Indus water commissioner P K Saxena, technical experts and a representative of the Ministry of External Affairs. PTI reported that India offered the Pakistan delegation discussion on Ratle located in J&K which was being objected by Islamabad earlier. The Pakistan delegation declined the offer, saying the issue is already being discussed at the secretary-level. The Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) is an established mechanism under the IWT, which mandates it to establish and maintain cooperative arrangements for the implementation of the water distribution pact and to promote cooperation between the two sides in the development of the Indus water systems. The IWT covers the water distribution and sharing rights of six rivers - Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum. The treaty specifies that waters from the three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum and Chenab - be reserved for Pakistan, while waters from eastern rivers - Ravi, Sutlej and Beas - are reserved for India. The meeting of the PIC is held alternately in India and Pakistan at least once every year as mandated by the treaty.

Pakistan seeks inspection of India's Indus river basin projects

Pakistan today expressed disappointment at India for not issuing visas to more than 500 Pakistani pilgrims for visiting the famed shrine of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer.

The visit was to take place under the 1974 Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines and is a regular annual feature, Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

&quot;Pakistan notes with deep disappointment the non-issuance of visas by India for the visit of the 503 Pakistani Zaireen (pilgrims) to participate in the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA) at Ajmer Sharif, India from 19-29 March 2018,&quot; the statement said.

Due to India&#39;s decision, the Pakistani pilgrims have been deprived of the opportunity to participate in the Urs, which is of special significance, it said.

Earlier 192 Pakistani pilgrims could not participate in the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja NizamuddinAulia in Delhi from 1-8 January due to the non-issuance of visas by India, it said.

The FO said that during 2017, despite Pakistan&#39;s offer to send a special train, Indian delays had resulted in Sikh yatrees (pilgrims) from India being unable to participate in the Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev and the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

In February, Pakistan had made all the arrangements for the visit of 173 Katas Raj pilgrims, who were &quot;forced&quot; to withdraw their applications from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi due to non-issuance of necessary clearance by the Ministry of External Affairs of India, the statement said.

&quot;Besides being violative of the bilateral Protocol of 1974 and the basic human right to religious freedom, such measures also undermine the efforts aimed at improving the environment, increasing people-to-people contacts and normalising relations between the two countries,&quot; the FO said.

It was again &quot;ironic&quot; that India failed to issue visas on the occasion of Urs of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti who for centuries has been the symbol of bringing communities closer to each other, the statement added.

The visit was to take place under the 1974 Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines and is a regular annual feature, Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement

Pakistan today expressed disappointment at India for not issuing visas to more than 500 Pakistani pilgrims for visiting the famed shrine of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer. The visit was to take place under the 1974 Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines and is a regular annual feature, Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement. "Pakistan notes with deep disappointment the non-issuance of visas by India for the visit of the 503 Pakistani Zaireen (pilgrims) to participate in the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA) at Ajmer Sharif, India from 19-29 March 2018," the statement said. Due to India's decision, the Pakistani pilgrims have been deprived of the opportunity to participate in the Urs, which is of special significance, it said. Earlier 192 Pakistani pilgrims could not participate in the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja NizamuddinAulia in Delhi from 1-8 January due to the non-issuance of visas by India, it said. The FO said that during 2017, despite Pakistan's offer to send a special train, Indian delays had resulted in Sikh yatrees (pilgrims) from India being unable to participate in the Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev and the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. In February, Pakistan had made all the arrangements for the visit of 173 Katas Raj pilgrims, who were "forced" to withdraw their applications from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi due to non-issuance of necessary clearance by the Ministry of External Affairs of India, the statement said. "Besides being violative of the bilateral Protocol of 1974 and the basic human right to religious freedom, such measures also undermine the efforts aimed at improving the environment, increasing people-to-people contacts and normalising relations between the two countries," the FO said. It was again "ironic" that India failed to issue visas on the occasion of Urs of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti who for centuries has been the symbol of bringing communities closer to each other, the statement added.

Deep disappointment at non-issuance of visas by India: Pakistan

Speaking at the 37th session of UN human rights council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, Mini Devi Kumam, Second Secretary, India&#39;s Permanent Mission has lashed at Pakistan for sheltering UN-designated terrorists.

Calling Pakistan a failed state, Kumam said, &quot;In gross violation of UN Security Council resolution 1267, the UN designated terrorists like Hafiz Mohammed Saeed are freely operating with State support, and the UN designated entities are being politically mainstreamed in Pakistan.&quot;

She also highlighted&nbsp;the depressing state of minorities in the country, enforced disappearances and unlawful killing of political dissidents by Pakistan security forces.&nbsp;

She said &quot;We urge the Council to call on Pakistan to stop targeting political dissidents and legitimate criticism in Sindh, Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and to stop torture, enforced disappearances and unlawful killing, including that of journalists and activists by its security agencies. Pakistan should also prosecute all perpetrators of such crimes&quot;.

She also took on Pakistan for its continued support to cross-border terrorism in India.

&quot;We await credible action by the Government of Pakistan to bring all those involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2016 Pathankot and Uri attacks to justice,&quot; she said.

Thrashing Pakistan for its lecture to India about the protection of human rights, she said, &quot;Even as terrorists thrive in Pakistan and roam its streets with impunity, we have heard it lecture about the protection of human rights in India.

The World does not need lessons on democracy and human rights from a country whose own situation is charitably described as a failed state&quot;.

(With inputs from ANI)

Calling Pakistan a failed state India's Permanent Mission said, 'In gross violation of UN Security Council resolution 1267, the UN designated terrorists like Hafiz Mohammed Saeed are freely operating with State support, and the UN designated entities are being politically mainstreamed in Pak'

Speaking at the 37th session of UN human rights council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, Mini Devi Kumam, Second Secretary, India's Permanent Mission has lashed at Pakistan for sheltering UN-designated terrorists. Calling Pakistan a failed state, Kumam said, "In gross violation of UN Security Council resolution 1267, the UN designated terrorists like Hafiz Mohammed Saeed are freely operating with State support, and the UN designated entities are being politically mainstreamed in Pakistan." She also highlighted the depressing state of minorities in the country, enforced disappearances and unlawful killing of political dissidents by Pakistan security forces. She said "We urge the Council to call on Pakistan to stop targeting political dissidents and legitimate criticism in Sindh, Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and to stop torture, enforced disappearances and unlawful killing, including that of journalists and activists by its security agencies. Pakistan should also prosecute all perpetrators of such crimes". She also took on Pakistan for its continued support to cross-border terrorism in India. "We await credible action by the Government of Pakistan to bring all those involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2016 Pathankot and Uri attacks to justice," she said. Thrashing Pakistan for its lecture to India about the protection of human rights, she said, "Even as terrorists thrive in Pakistan and roam its streets with impunity, we have heard it lecture about the protection of human rights in India. The World does not need lessons on democracy and human rights from a country whose own situation is charitably described as a failed state". (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan harbours UN designate terrorists: India slams Pakistan at UNHRC

Pakistan today summoned <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-why-india-used-light-artillery-guns-against-pakistan-along-the-loc-34427">India&#39;s deputy high commissioner J P Singh</a> for the second consecutive day over &nbsp;&quot;unprovoked firing by Indian troops&quot; along the Line of Control(LoC).

The situation on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-pakistans-bat-team-targets-indian-army-along-loc-33825">border continued to be tense</a> on Friday as schools in Poonch in J&amp;K remained closed due to cross-border firing.&nbsp;

Amid the tensions, Director General (South Asia &amp; SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Singh and condemned the &quot;unprovoked ceasefire violations&quot; by the Indian forces along the LoC on March 1 in Bhimber/Samahini sectors.

Faisal said despite calls for restraint, &quot;India continues to indulge in ceasefire violations.&quot;

He said this &quot;unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations.&quot;

&quot;The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation,&quot; said Faisal.

Last month, the Indian deputy high commissioner was summoned on&nbsp;February 5, 15, 20, 22, 24 and 27.

 
<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7T-PiUTm0fc" width="560"></iframe> 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The situation on the border continued to be tense on Friday as schools in Poonch in J&K remained closed due to cross-border firing

Pakistan today summoned India's deputy high commissioner J P Singh for the second consecutive day over "unprovoked firing by Indian troops" along the Line of Control(LoC). The situation on the border continued to be tense on Friday as schools in Poonch in J&K remained closed due to cross-border firing. Amid the tensions, Director General (South Asia & SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Singh and condemned the "unprovoked ceasefire violations" by the Indian forces along the LoC on March 1 in Bhimber/Samahini sectors. Faisal said despite calls for restraint, "India continues to indulge in ceasefire violations." He said this "unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations." "The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation," said Faisal. Last month, the Indian deputy high commissioner was summoned on February 5, 15, 20, 22, 24 and 27.

Amid cross-border firing, Pakistan summons India's deputy high commissioner

The United States has reportedly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-raise-use-of-anti-tank-guided-missiles-by-pakistan-with-us-32424">put forward a motion to place</a> Pakistan on a global terrorist financing watchlist at the Financial Action Task Force &nbsp;(FATF) meeting due to take place in Paris next week, newswire Reuters reported.

FATF <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-moves-bill-to-end-non-defence-aid-to-pakistan-32055">is an international inter-governmental body</a> tasked with countering money laundering and terrorist financing.

The US move was&nbsp;confirmed by senior Pakistani officials, Reuters said.

Pakistan was on the FATF watchlist from 2012 to 2015. Experts feel inclusion of Pakistan on the list would hit hits economy as investors would pull away from the country and it would make it tough for Islamabad to borrow money which is likely to put additional pressure on the government.

FATF had earlier warned Pakistan it would put it back on the watchlist even as several US officials including President Trump openly declared the country wasn&#39;t doing enough to stop terrorist activity on its soil.

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said: &quot;the US has consistently expressed our long-standing concern about ongoing deficiencies in Pakistan&rsquo;s implementation of its anti-money laundering/counterterrorism finance regime.&quot;

&quot;In addition to broader systemic concerns, this also includes Pakistan&rsquo;s non-compliance with its commitments under UN Security Council Resolution 1267,&quot; &nbsp;Nauert added.

Reuters quoted a spokesperson at the US embassy in Islamabad saying that the United States was &quot;absolutely not&quot; acting on behalf of India.

Meanwhile, US Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats said Pakistan&#39;s military is holding back counter-terrorism cooperation with the United States while continuing to go easy on militant groups inside its territory.

&quot;Pakistan-based militant groups continue to take advantage of their safe haven to conduct attacks in India, in Afghanistan, and including US interests therein,&quot; Coats said.

Coats added that the US had announced terror designations in recent weeks on eight members of the Taliban, the Haqqani Network and other groups, aiming to boost pressure on the militants&#39; abilities to operate.

&nbsp;

 
<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ubuo9N9rYAI" width="560"></iframe> 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

FATF is an international inter-governmental body tasked with countering money laundering and terrorist financing.

The United States has reportedly put forward a motion to place Pakistan on a global terrorist financing watchlist at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meeting due to take place in Paris next week, newswire Reuters reported. FATF is an international inter-governmental body tasked with countering money laundering and terrorist financing. The US move was confirmed by senior Pakistani officials, Reuters said. Pakistan was on the FATF watchlist from 2012 to 2015. Experts feel inclusion of Pakistan on the list would hit hits economy as investors would pull away from the country and it would make it tough for Islamabad to borrow money which is likely to put additional pressure on the government. FATF had earlier warned Pakistan it would put it back on the watchlist even as several US officials including President Trump openly declared the country wasn't doing enough to stop terrorist activity on its soil. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said: "the US has consistently expressed our long-standing concern about ongoing deficiencies in Pakistan’s implementation of its anti-money laundering/counterterrorism finance regime." "In addition to broader systemic concerns, this also includes Pakistan’s non-compliance with its commitments under UN Security Council Resolution 1267," Nauert added. Reuters quoted a spokesperson at the US embassy in Islamabad saying that the United States was "absolutely not" acting on behalf of India. Meanwhile, US Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats said Pakistan's military is holding back counter-terrorism cooperation with the United States while continuing to go easy on militant groups inside its territory. "Pakistan-based militant groups continue to take advantage of their safe haven to conduct attacks in India, in Afghanistan, and including US interests therein," Coats said. Coats added that the US had announced terror designations in recent weeks on eight members of the Taliban, the Haqqani Network and other groups, aiming to boost pressure on the militants' abilities to operate.

US moves motion to place Pakistan on global terror financing watchlist at FATF: Report

BSF launched &quot;Operation Bhima&quot; against<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-pm-says-committed-to-seizing-charities-run-by-hafiz-saeed-30454"> Pakistan Rangers even as firing </a>stopped along the Line of Control(LoC) today.

Reports said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-firing-positions-fuel-dump-destroyed-in-retaliation-bsf-30385">Pakistan Army chief met Pakistani </a>Rangers as India&#39;s border security force(BSF) released a video on Monday and informed about the planned firing on Pakistan&#39;s post.(Watch Video)

On Monday, India and Pakistan troops were engaged in cross-border firing as tensions rose along the border. The BSF said it retaliated against ceasefire violations by Pakistan destroying several posts on the border.

The BSF said it had fired 9,000 rounds of mortar shells in the last four days.&nbsp;

12 people have killed since Pakistani Rangers started firing on Indian positions since last Thursday.

As tensions built on the border, Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa warned India saying any Indian &quot;aggression&quot; or &quot;misadventure&quot; will always get a most befitting response during his visit to the Line of Control(LoC) and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors.

General Bajwa directed enhanced protective measures including construction of more community shell protection shelters for civil population along the border.

12 people have killed since Pakistani Rangers started firing on Indian positions since last Thursday.

BSF launched "Operation Bhima" against Pakistan Rangers even as firing stopped along the Line of Control(LoC) today. Reports said Pakistan Army chief met Pakistani Rangers as India's border security force(BSF) released a video on Monday and informed about the planned firing on Pakistan's post.(Watch Video) On Monday, India and Pakistan troops were engaged in cross-border firing as tensions rose along the border. The BSF said it retaliated against ceasefire violations by Pakistan destroying several posts on the border. The BSF said it had fired 9,000 rounds of mortar shells in the last four days. 12 people have killed since Pakistani Rangers started firing on Indian positions since last Thursday. As tensions built on the border, Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa warned India saying any Indian "aggression" or "misadventure" will always get a most befitting response during his visit to the Line of Control(LoC) and Working Boundary in Khuiratta and Ratta Arayan sectors. General Bajwa directed enhanced protective measures including construction of more community shell protection shelters for civil population along the border.

BSF launches 'Operation Bhima' against Pak Rangers along LoC

The Pakistan interior ministry has reportedly issued<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/free-balochistan-movement-protest-in-london-against-cpec-human-rights-violations-by-pakistan-31035"> a letter to the Home department warning</a> that India has sent 400 Muslim men to Afghanistan for receiving training to be able to carry out attacks on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CEPC) installations.

Pakistan&#39;s national newspaper<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cpec-clout-now-yuan-may-replace-us-dollar-in-pakistan-china-trade-27146"> Dawn said the ministry has issued</a> directives for making &quot;foolproof security arrange&quot; in the&nbsp;Gilgit-Baltistan area.

The letter claimed that India is targeting installations &quot;including bridges at Karakoram Highway&quot; on the CPEC route, Dawn said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-should-not-look-at-cpec-from-indian-perspective-pak-minister-iqbal-to-trump-administration-22339">The Gilgit-Baltistan government </a>has reportedly beefed up security following the letter with top Pakistani security officials visiting the area.

Several bridges along the Karakoram Highway has been declared as &quot;sensitive&quot;, Dawn added with random checks being carried out by authorities to spot any suspicious activities.

The authorities are also prepared to detain &quot;suspicious&quot; people, the Pakistan daily reported, adding that &quot;preventative measures&quot; were put in place in view of the &quot;law and order&quot; situation prevailing in the country.

The CEPC project is a high-profile engagement between China and Pakistan which involves the reconstruction of the Dera Ismail Khan-Zhob road, the Khuzdar-Basima and the 136-km Karakoram Highway.

However, the project between the two countries has not been going according to plan after Pakistan turned down China&#39;s offer of assistance on the Diamer-Bhasha dam in December after Beijing placed strict conditions including ownership of the project.&nbsp;

Later, China &quot;temporarily&quot; stopped funding of some projects under the CPEC project after reports of growing &quot;corruption&quot; allegations.

The move &quot;stunned&quot; the Pakistan authorities who are hoping for billions of dollars pouring into the project which would help create jobs, improve infrastructure&nbsp;and boost trade.

China and Pakistan have signed six pacts to boost cooperation on the $50 billion CPEC, including one on building an airport at the strategic Gwadar port city.

The Gilgit-Baltistan government has reportedly beefed up security following the letter with top Pakistani security officials visiting the area.

The Pakistan interior ministry has reportedly issued a letter to the Home department warning that India has sent 400 Muslim men to Afghanistan for receiving training to be able to carry out attacks on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CEPC) installations. Pakistan's national newspaper Dawn said the ministry has issued directives for making "foolproof security arrange" in the Gilgit-Baltistan area. The letter claimed that India is targeting installations "including bridges at Karakoram Highway" on the CPEC route, Dawn said. The Gilgit-Baltistan government has reportedly beefed up security following the letter with top Pakistani security officials visiting the area. Several bridges along the Karakoram Highway has been declared as "sensitive", Dawn added with random checks being carried out by authorities to spot any suspicious activities. The authorities are also prepared to detain "suspicious" people, the Pakistan daily reported, adding that "preventative measures" were put in place in view of the "law and order" situation prevailing in the country. The CEPC project is a high-profile engagement between China and Pakistan which involves the reconstruction of the Dera Ismail Khan-Zhob road, the Khuzdar-Basima and the 136-km Karakoram Highway. However, the project between the two countries has not been going according to plan after Pakistan turned down China's offer of assistance on the Diamer-Bhasha dam in December after Beijing placed strict conditions including ownership of the project. Later, China "temporarily" stopped funding of some projects under the CPEC project after reports of growing "corruption" allegations. The move "stunned" the Pakistan authorities who are hoping for billions of dollars pouring into the project which would help create jobs, improve infrastructure and boost trade. China and Pakistan have signed six pacts to boost cooperation on the $50 billion CPEC, including one on building an airport at the strategic Gwadar port city.

'India may target CPEC installations including Karakoram highway,' Pak ministry to Gilgit-Baltistan government

After India agreed to extend the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-extends-munabao-khokhrapar-rail-link-with-pak-for-3-years-31264"> Munabao- Khokhrapar rail line</a>, the Pakistan foreign office said today the rail link is essential for improving relations between the two countries.

&quot;The government of Pakistan has agreed to extend the agreement of the rail link between Munabao (India)and Khokhrapar (Pakistan) for another three years,&quot; the Pakistan foreign office said in a statement.

The move comes amid continued ceasefire violations along the line of control(LoC) in J&amp;K. India and Pakistan troops have been repeatedly firing at each others position in Poonch, Nowshera and Keri.

&quot;The rail link facilitates people-to-people contact that Pakistan believes is essential for improving relations between the two countries,&quot; the foreign office added.

The agreement was set to expire in March 2018, but has now been extended to January 31, 2021.

The Munabao-Khokhrapar link was destroyed during the 1965 war, the service was revived after 41 years in February 2006.

The move comes amid continues ceasefire violations along the line of control(LoC) in J&K.

After India agreed to extend the Munabao- Khokhrapar rail line, the Pakistan foreign office said today the rail link is essential for improving relations between the two countries. "The government of Pakistan has agreed to extend the agreement of the rail link between Munabao (India)and Khokhrapar (Pakistan) for another three years," the Pakistan foreign office said in a statement. The move comes amid continued ceasefire violations along the line of control(LoC) in J&K. India and Pakistan troops have been repeatedly firing at each others position in Poonch, Nowshera and Keri. "The rail link facilitates people-to-people contact that Pakistan believes is essential for improving relations between the two countries," the foreign office added. The agreement was set to expire in March 2018, but has now been extended to January 31, 2021. The Munabao-Khokhrapar link was destroyed during the 1965 war, the service was revived after 41 years in February 2006.

Munabao-Khokhrapar rail link essential for improving relations: Pakistan

India and Pakistan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-buy-160000-guns-including-assault-rifles-for-border-troops-29785">Director Generals of Military Operation</a>(DGMO) held talks on Tuesday&nbsp;morning for about fifteen minutes.

India&#39;s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-credible-nuclear-capability-should-india-test-our-resolve-pakistan-29639">DGMO raised concerns of infiltration</a> and ceasefire violations across the border during talks with the Pakistan DGMO.

The Pakistan DGMO reportedly said Indian troops have been firing at its troops along the border.

On Tuesday, Pakistan troops had opened fire at Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Poonch district. An Army captain was injured in the firefight.

The Indian troops retaliated and the exchange of fire continued till late night.

India authorities on Monday had suspended the cross-border LoC bus service between Chakan Da Bagh and Rawalakot following heightened tension on the LoC.

On Tuesday, Pakistan troops had opened fire at Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district

India and Pakistan Director Generals of Military Operation(DGMO) held talks on Tuesday morning for about fifteen minutes. India's DGMO raised concerns of infiltration and ceasefire violations across the border during talks with the Pakistan DGMO. The Pakistan DGMO reportedly said Indian troops have been firing at its troops along the border. On Tuesday, Pakistan troops had opened fire at Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district. An Army captain was injured in the firefight. The Indian troops retaliated and the exchange of fire continued till late night. India authorities on Monday had suspended the cross-border LoC bus service between Chakan Da Bagh and Rawalakot following heightened tension on the LoC.

After firing along LoC, India, Pak DGMOs hold talks

China&#39;s right-leaning <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-key-pawn-in-the-indo-pacific-strategy-china-daily-26024">newspaper Global Times declared today</a> that India harbours &quot;a sense of superiority&quot; in relations with South Asian countries.

Referring to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cant-just-copy-chinas-reform-model-china-daily-23903">Maldivian foreign minister Mohamed Asim&#39;s</a> visit to India last week, the state-run China daily said New Delhi regards itself as a &quot;key player&quot; in diplomacy with the Maldives.

Last month Maldives President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom had met <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wont-be-easy-for-india-to-bring-sri-lankas-hambantota-to-life-china-daily-23767">Chinese President Xi and inked a number </a>of trade deals including a memorandum of understanding(MoU) on OBOR and a free trade agreement.

The Chinese daily said New Delhi was extremely dissatisfied with the Maldives signing a free trade agreement with Beijing. The newspaper reported that during his visit, Asim reiterated Maldives&#39; &quot;India First&quot; policy, adding that PM Modi also declared that India will ever be a &quot;reliable and close neighbour&quot; of the Indian Ocean country.

&quot;India insists on a superior status in its neighbours&#39; foreign policies, and has been wanting these countries to follow the &quot;India First&quot; policy since the end of World War-II,&quot; the newspaper said, adding that,&quot;the era when international relations were based on hierarchical differences no longer exists.&quot;

&quot;India, dealing with neighbouring countries with a sense of superiority, triggered dissatisfaction,&quot; it said.&nbsp;

&quot;Pakistan became the first South Asian nation to challenge New Delhi&#39;s arrogance and seeks ties with India on equal terms. New Delhi pushed back and ties worsened,&quot; the newspaper added.

&quot;When China initiated the practice of a new type of modern international relations based on equality and win-win cooperation, it was warmly welcomed by other nations in South Asia. India believes this poses a big challenge to its own diplomacy,&quot; the newspaper said.

&quot;Insisting on superiority over other countries as a diplomatic policy will not only impede the development of international relations, but also draw the country into a &quot;superiority&quot; quagmire,&quot; the Global Times said.

The Op-ed page article said it is therefore not hard to understand why the Maldives committed to the &quot;India First&quot; policy to &quot;assuage&quot; concerns of New Delhi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&quot;Old concepts like power politics, hegemonism and hierarchical distinctions are gradually being abandoned. Ties based on mutual respect, fairness and justice as well as win-win cooperation,&quot; the state-run Chinese daily said, concluding,&quot;As an emerging power, India should no longer stick to outdated principles, but promote change and development of global ties.&quot; &nbsp;

Referring to Maldivian foreign minister Mohamed Asim's visit to India last week, the state-run China daily said New Delhi regards itself as a "key player" in diplomacy with the Maldives

China's right-leaning newspaper Global Times declared today that India harbours "a sense of superiority" in relations with South Asian countries. Referring to Maldivian foreign minister Mohamed Asim's visit to India last week, the state-run China daily said New Delhi regards itself as a "key player" in diplomacy with the Maldives. Last month Maldives President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom had met Chinese President Xi and inked a number of trade deals including a memorandum of understanding(MoU) on OBOR and a free trade agreement. The Chinese daily said New Delhi was extremely dissatisfied with the Maldives signing a free trade agreement with Beijing. The newspaper reported that during his visit, Asim reiterated Maldives' "India First" policy, adding that PM Modi also declared that India will ever be a "reliable and close neighbour" of the Indian Ocean country. "India insists on a superior status in its neighbours' foreign policies, and has been wanting these countries to follow the "India First" policy since the end of World War-II," the newspaper said, adding that,"the era when international relations were based on hierarchical differences no longer exists." "India, dealing with neighbouring countries with a sense of superiority, triggered dissatisfaction," it said. "Pakistan became the first South Asian nation to challenge New Delhi's arrogance and seeks ties with India on equal terms. New Delhi pushed back and ties worsened," the newspaper added. "When China initiated the practice of a new type of modern international relations based on equality and win-win cooperation, it was warmly welcomed by other nations in South Asia. India believes this poses a big challenge to its own diplomacy," the newspaper said. "Insisting on superiority over other countries as a diplomatic policy will not only impede the development of international relations, but also draw the country into a "superiority" quagmire," the Global Times said. The Op-ed page article said it is therefore not hard to understand why the Maldives committed to the "India First" policy to "assuage" concerns of New Delhi. "Old concepts like power politics, hegemonism and hierarchical distinctions are gradually being abandoned. Ties based on mutual respect, fairness and justice as well as win-win cooperation," the state-run Chinese daily said, concluding,"As an emerging power, India should no longer stick to outdated principles, but promote change and development of global ties."

India harbours sense of superiority with South Asian countries: China daily

The likelihood of holding cricket series between India-Pakistan, even at an impartial venue, seem slim considering the high number of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-violated-ceasefire-881-times-along-loc-ib-27216">cross-border firing violations </a>by Pakistan, Sushma Swaraj said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Foreign minister Sushma Swaraj along with Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar stated during a meeting of the consultative committee attached to the ministry that offered a review of relations with neighbours.&nbsp;

Upon matter related to starting suspended cricket matches between India-Pakistan, Swaraj said that more interest is being shown towards&nbsp;the release of women and elderly detainees and prisoners at present.&nbsp;

However, due to the extensive violation of cross-border firing, it does not provide a conducive atmosphere for engaging in a cricket series, she said.&nbsp;

Due to tension between the two countries, the India-Pakistan cricket fixture has been off for some time and the unfavourable line of neckwears have not allowed a change on this front as yet.&nbsp;

Although, the two nations continue to play in international competitions against each other. &nbsp;

Swaraj informed that there have been over 800 cross-border violations this year and even though violence in Jammu and Kashmir has reduced, the relations still remain problematic.&nbsp;

Moreover, the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-blistering-attack-mea-says-pakistan-heckled-kulbhushan-jadhavs-family-27755"> recent controversies</a> surrounding Kulbhushan Jadhav&#39;s wife and mother have made things rather worse.&nbsp;

Foreign minister Sushma Swaraj along with Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar told the government during a meeting of the consultative committee attached to the ministry that offered a review of relations with neighbours

The likelihood of holding cricket series between India-Pakistan, even at an impartial venue, seem slim considering the high number of cross-border firing violations by Pakistan, Sushma Swaraj said on Sunday. Foreign minister Sushma Swaraj along with Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar stated during a meeting of the consultative committee attached to the ministry that offered a review of relations with neighbours. Upon matter related to starting suspended cricket matches between India-Pakistan, Swaraj said that more interest is being shown towards the release of women and elderly detainees and prisoners at present. However, due to the extensive violation of cross-border firing, it does not provide a conducive atmosphere for engaging in a cricket series, she said. Due to tension between the two countries, the India-Pakistan cricket fixture has been off for some time and the unfavourable line of neckwears have not allowed a change on this front as yet. Although, the two nations continue to play in international competitions against each other. Swaraj informed that there have been over 800 cross-border violations this year and even though violence in Jammu and Kashmir has reduced, the relations still remain problematic. Moreover, the recent controversies surrounding Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife and mother have made things rather worse.

Cross-border violations do not provide conducive atmosphere for cricket with Pakistan: Sushma Swaraj

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/kulbhushan-jadhav-excution-stayed-international-court-of-justice-3405" target="_blank">International Court of Justice(ICJ)</a> is the principal organ of the United Nation that aims to maintain and strengthen international peace and security.

Seated in Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, the principal judicial organisation of the UN is the only organisation to not to have its seat in New York.&nbsp;

The world&#39;s highest international court is the successor of The Permanent Court of International Justice established in 1922. The court functioned from 1922-1940. It was dissolved after World War II.&nbsp;

The ICJ came into existence in 1946 succeeded the Permanent Court of International Justice.

The two official language of the court is English and French.&nbsp;

The court consists of 50 judges. They are elected for a period of nine years by the General Assembly(GA) and the UN Security Council(UNSC).

The members of the court must all be from different countries. However, they do not represent their countries. They are independent judges.&nbsp;

Three seats on the bench are occupied by African judges, two from Latin America and the Carribean, three from Asia, five from western Europe and the other western nations including&nbsp;two from eastern Europe.&nbsp;

Although no country is entitled to a seat, the court has always included a judge from each of the five permanent members of the Security Council.

The&nbsp; International Court of Justice has two important roles.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dalveer-bhandari-re-elected-icj-judge-britain-pulls-out-24693" target="_blank">Britain congratulates India as Dalveer Bhandari gets re-elected as ICJ judge</a>

Also read: &#39;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/proud-moment-for-us-pm-modi-on-justice-dalveer-bhandaris-re-election-to-icj-24713" target="_blank">Proud moment for us&#39;: PM Modi on Justice Dalveer Bhandari&#39;s re-election to ICJ</a>

The first is to resolve contentious cases, which primarily includes disputes between states, border disputes, diplomatic protections maritime delimitation, humanitarian law, use of armed force.These contentious cases account for over 80 per cent of its work.&nbsp;

All UN members are entitled to bring any proceedings in front of the court. Other non-member states can also access the court subject to certain conditions.&nbsp;

Once the court is seized the proceedings take place in two phases. The court submits their arguments, evidence and submissions in writings.&nbsp;Then their representatives, lawyers deliver oral arguments before the court hearing.&nbsp;

The court then begins its deliberations, which is confidential. Its questions are decided by the majority of judges present. On an average, these deliberations last&nbsp;between 4-6 months. Each deliberation is delivered in two languages. It is reproduced in several sealed copies. One of these copies is sent to each of the states involved in the deliberations.&nbsp;

The judgement of the court is final and without any appeal. By accessing the court on their own will, the states assume a commitment to comply with its decision. If a state refuses to abide by a decision of the court the opposition state may seek the intervention of the Security Council. The Security Council can take a decision to give an effect of the judgement under article 94 of the charter of the UN.

The second role of the ICJ is to respond to legal questions submitted to it by General Assembly, Security Council and other UN organs or agencies. The is known as Advisory Opinions. Unlike judgement in contentious cases, the Advisory Opinions are not binding on the United Nations.&nbsp;

The budget of the International Court of Justice accounts for less than one per cent of the regular budget of the United Nations.

Since its establishment, the court has dealt with 161 cases. It is not a criminal court. It does not take up cases related to individuals.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The world's highest international court is the successor of The Permanent Court of International Justice established in 1922. The court functioned from 1922-1940. It was dissolved after the second World war

International Court of Justice(ICJ) is the principal organ of the United Nation that aims to maintain and strengthen international peace and security. Seated in Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, the principal judicial organisation of the UN is the only organisation to not to have its seat in New York. The world's highest international court is the successor of The Permanent Court of International Justice established in 1922. The court functioned from 1922-1940. It was dissolved after World War II. The ICJ came into existence in 1946 succeeded the Permanent Court of International Justice. The two official language of the court is English and French. The court consists of 50 judges. They are elected for a period of nine years by the General Assembly(GA) and the UN Security Council(UNSC). The members of the court must all be from different countries. However, they do not represent their countries. They are independent judges. Three seats on the bench are occupied by African judges, two from Latin America and the Carribean, three from Asia, five from western Europe and the other western nations including two from eastern Europe. Although no country is entitled to a seat, the court has always included a judge from each of the five permanent members of the Security Council. The International Court of Justice has two important roles. Also read: Britain congratulates India as Dalveer Bhandari gets re-elected as ICJ judge Also read: 'Proud moment for us': PM Modi on Justice Dalveer Bhandari's re-election to ICJ The first is to resolve contentious cases, which primarily includes disputes between states, border disputes, diplomatic protections maritime delimitation, humanitarian law, use of armed force.These contentious cases account for over 80 per cent of its work. All UN members are entitled to bring any proceedings in front of the court. Other non-member states can also access the court subject to certain conditions. Once the court is seized the proceedings take place in two phases. The court submits their arguments, evidence and submissions in writings. Then their representatives, lawyers deliver oral arguments before the court hearing. The court then begins its deliberations, which is confidential. Its questions are decided by the majority of judges present. On an average, these deliberations last between 4-6 months. Each deliberation is delivered in two languages. It is reproduced in several sealed copies. One of these copies is sent to each of the states involved in the deliberations. The judgement of the court is final and without any appeal. By accessing the court on their own will, the states assume a commitment to comply with its decision. If a state refuses to abide by a decision of the court the opposition state may seek the intervention of the Security Council. The Security Council can take a decision to give an effect of the judgement under article 94 of the charter of the UN. The second role of the ICJ is to respond to legal questions submitted to it by General Assembly, Security Council and other UN organs or agencies. The is known as Advisory Opinions. Unlike judgement in contentious cases, the Advisory Opinions are not binding on the United Nations. The budget of the International Court of Justice accounts for less than one per cent of the regular budget of the United Nations. Since its establishment, the court has dealt with 161 cases. It is not a criminal court. It does not take up cases related to individuals.

Everything you wanted to know about the International Court of Justice

A total of 228 ceasefire violations occurred in 2016 along the Line of Control in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, an area which is under the operational control of the Indian Army.

This year, till October 3, the number of such violations had already more than doubled to 503.

That translates roughly to around 56 violations a month on average, or almost two a day.

In fact, last year&rsquo;s total figure of 228 ceasefire violations was crossed this year in July itself, underlining the frequency with which Pakistan has engaged in&nbsp;unprovoked firing in violation of the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding between it and India.&nbsp;

As compared to the eight casualties suffered by the Indian Army due to these ceasefire violations in 2016, the number of soldiers killed this year has already touched 14.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Till October 3, this year the Army has killed a total 150 terrorists: Sources
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/915544816594780160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
About 275 terrorists are active in Kashmir out of which over 250 are active in the north of Pir Panjal Range: Sources
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/915546333292806144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

The number of infiltration attempts, too, has witnessed an upswing in Jammu and Kashmir.

While 88 infiltration attempts took place in 2016, the number of such bids had already touched 56 by the end of August this year.

As per official figures, 35 terrorists were killed in 2016 while trying to infiltrate into India. This year, till August, 42 terrorists had been killed while attempting to infiltrate into India.

It&rsquo;s not just soldiers who are bearing the brunt of the ceasefire violations.

Civilians residing in areas near the Line of Control have also suffered collateral damage.

On October 3, the Indian government summoned Pakistan&rsquo;s deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah and lodged a strong protest with him over the deaths of three Indian children in an unprovoked ceasefire violation on October 2 by Pakistani forces in the Poonch sector.

India conveyed to Pakistan that&nbsp;such &ldquo;deliberate targeting of civilians was not acceptable and was against humanitarian norms and practices&rdquo;.

There have been almost two ceasefire violations a day this year

A total of 228 ceasefire violations occurred in 2016 along the Line of Control in Jammu & Kashmir, an area which is under the operational control of the Indian Army. This year, till October 3, the number of such violations had already more than doubled to 503. That translates roughly to around 56 violations a month on average, or almost two a day. In fact, last year’s total figure of 228 ceasefire violations was crossed this year in July itself, underlining the frequency with which Pakistan has engaged in unprovoked firing in violation of the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding between it and India. As compared to the eight casualties suffered by the Indian Army due to these ceasefire violations in 2016, the number of soldiers killed this year has already touched 14. Till October 3, this year the Army has killed a total 150 terrorists: Sources — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2017 × About 275 terrorists are active in Kashmir out of which over 250 are active in the north of Pir Panjal Range: Sources — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2017 × The number of infiltration attempts, too, has witnessed an upswing in Jammu and Kashmir. While 88 infiltration attempts took place in 2016, the number of such bids had already touched 56 by the end of August this year. As per official figures, 35 terrorists were killed in 2016 while trying to infiltrate into India. This year, till August, 42 terrorists had been killed while attempting to infiltrate into India. It’s not just soldiers who are bearing the brunt of the ceasefire violations. Civilians residing in areas near the Line of Control have also suffered collateral damage. On October 3, the Indian government summoned Pakistan’s deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah and lodged a strong protest with him over the deaths of three Indian children in an unprovoked ceasefire violation on October 2 by Pakistani forces in the Poonch sector. India conveyed to Pakistan that such “deliberate targeting of civilians was not acceptable and was against humanitarian norms and practices”.

Ceasefire violations in J&K already more than double last year, infiltration on upswing too

An army jawan has again died after ceasefire violation by Pakistan.

Naik Mahendra Chemjung&nbsp;died after Pakistan violated ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Bhimber Gali.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FLASH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FLASH</a>: Naik Mahendra Chemjung lost his life in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Bhimber Gali <a href="https://t.co/OYwcfqqwkY">pic.twitter.com/OYwcfqqwkY</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/915174455738957830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Naik Chemjung, 35, hailed from Chilingdin in Nepal.

The ceasefire was violated by the Pakistani army across the LOC in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Poonch district.

&nbsp;

Naik Mahendra Chemjung?died?in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali?after Pakistan violated the ceasefire in the valley

An army jawan has again died after ceasefire violation by Pakistan. Naik Mahendra Chemjung died after Pakistan violated ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali. #FLASH: Naik Mahendra Chemjung lost his life in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali pic.twitter.com/OYwcfqqwkY — ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2017 × Naik Chemjung, 35, hailed from Chilingdin in Nepal. The ceasefire was violated by the Pakistani army across the LOC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.

Army jawan dies after ceasefire violation in J&K

India and Pakistan&#39;s bitter relations and Pakistan&#39;s continuous terror operations in India may again call off this year&#39;s SAARC meeting, media reports said.

India has evidently shown its disinterest towards any South Asian meeting at the meeting of SAARC foreign ministers held on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

A media report quoted external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said &quot;Regional prosperity, connectivity and cooperation can take place only in an atmosphere of peace and security. It, however, remains at serious risk in the region&quot;.

Sushma Swaraj also added that SAARC failed to connect South Asia with other regions of the world and it could not develop a free trade system.

In the UNGA, India&#39;s major concern has been on maintaining peace and security in the South Asian region.

India has always played a lead role in in SAARC Summit. The country&#39;s disinterest makes it quite uncertain&nbsp;the event itself will take place.

The 2016 SAARC Summit was called off after India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan showed disinterest in the event that was scheduled to be held in Islamabad.&nbsp;

The three countries cited Pakistan&#39;s open support to terror as a reason for their disapproval.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The 2016 SAARC Summit was called off after India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan showed disinterest in the event that was scheduled to be held in Islamabad

India and Pakistan's bitter relations and Pakistan's continuous terror operations in India may again call off this year's SAARC meeting, media reports said. India has evidently shown its disinterest towards any South Asian meeting at the meeting of SAARC foreign ministers held on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. A media report quoted external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said "Regional prosperity, connectivity and cooperation can take place only in an atmosphere of peace and security. It, however, remains at serious risk in the region". Sushma Swaraj also added that SAARC failed to connect South Asia with other regions of the world and it could not develop a free trade system. In the UNGA, India's major concern has been on maintaining peace and security in the South Asian region. India has always played a lead role in in SAARC Summit. The country's disinterest makes it quite uncertain the event itself will take place. The 2016 SAARC Summit was called off after India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan showed disinterest in the event that was scheduled to be held in Islamabad. The three countries cited Pakistan's open support to terror as a reason for their disapproval.

Will India, Pakistan conflict again call off SAARC summit?

An 11-year-old Pakistani girl wrote a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating him on his party&#39;s victory in Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and said he should now focus on peace.

The two-page handwritten letter, dated March 13, by Aqeedat Naveed says both countries will benefit by maintaining good relations with each other.

&quot;Once my father told me that winning of hearts is a marvellous job. Perhaps you have won the hearts of Indian people, therefore you won the election in UP. But I must tell you if you want to win more Indian and Pakistani hearts, you should take steps towards friendship and peace,&quot; the letter reads.

&quot;Both countries need good relation. Let&#39;s make a peace bridge between India and Pakistan. Let&#39;s decide that we will not buy bullets, will buy books. We will not buy the guns, will buy the medicine for the poor people.&quot;

She finishes the letter by congratulating the prime minister for BJP&#39;s UP win.

The fifth grader, who hails from Lahore, had earlier written a letter to Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj as well on the matter of peace and has also received several responses from officials in New Delhi.&nbsp;

(WION with inputs from ANI)

Aqeedat Naveed also congratulated the Indian prime minister on his party's win in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections

An 11-year-old Pakistani girl wrote a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating him on his party's victory in Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and said he should now focus on peace. The two-page handwritten letter, dated March 13, by Aqeedat Naveed says both countries will benefit by maintaining good relations with each other. "Once my father told me that winning of hearts is a marvellous job. Perhaps you have won the hearts of Indian people, therefore you won the election in UP. But I must tell you if you want to win more Indian and Pakistani hearts, you should take steps towards friendship and peace," the letter reads. "Both countries need good relation. Let's make a peace bridge between India and Pakistan. Let's decide that we will not buy bullets, will buy books. We will not buy the guns, will buy the medicine for the poor people." She finishes the letter by congratulating the prime minister for BJP's UP win. The fifth grader, who hails from Lahore, had earlier written a letter to Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj as well on the matter of peace and has also received several responses from officials in New Delhi. (WION with inputs from ANI)

11-yr-old Pak girl writes to PM Modi, says focus on peace now

Amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, Islamabad has decided not to participate&nbsp;in the Conference of Parties (COP)7, the largest global anti-tobacco conference to be held in India next week.

According to the organisers, Pakistan expressed regret at pulling out of the meeting after&nbsp;invitations were sent to all the member nations and parties.

Co-organised by the WHO (World Health Organisation), the&nbsp;governing body COP brings together Framework Convention on Tobacco Control&#39;s (FCTC) 180 parties, which includes almost every country in the world as well as regional economic integration organisations like the European Union, according to the WHO.&nbsp;

&quot;As of now the information we have is that they will not be able to attend. Of course, if a party like Pakistan says they cannot participate, we don&#39;t go further and ask why,&quot; said Guangyuan Liu, of the FCTC. &quot;This is totally the decision of the party concerned whether they can participate or not. Yes, we had invited them&quot;.

Liu, however, added that they will accept Pakistan&#39;s registration if they change their mind. &quot;They are entitled to attend if they change their mind,&quot; she said.&nbsp;

First time hosts, India will be organising the&nbsp;seventh Conference of Parties from&nbsp;November 7 to&nbsp;November 12 in Greater Noida. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena will address the COP as a special speaker on the&nbsp;inaugural day.&nbsp;

One of the key issues India will put forth at the conference is the control and regulation of smokeless tobacco. &quot;Tobacco control is a movement we need to work on,&quot; said CK Mishra, secretary of India&#39;s health &amp; family welfare ministry.

The COP will also discuss emerging tobacco products such as electronic tobacco delivering system and institutional matters.&nbsp;Issues for debate at the conference also include alternative livelihoods for tobacco farmers, e-cigarette regulation and trade and investment issues.

In an attempt&nbsp;to regulate the use of cancer-causing tobacco, the Indian government had enforced guidelines of&nbsp;pictorial warnings on tobacco products. Tobacco companies in India are required to display pictorial warnings up to 85 per cent on both sides of the packet. But a Parliamentary committee&#39;s recommendation that the size of the pictorial warnings need to be only 50 per cent of the packet sparked a controversy with many alleging that the observations portrayed the vested interests of the tobacco lobbyists.&nbsp;

According to the WHO, tobacco-related diseases kill over 10 lakh Indians every year.

(WION)

&nbsp;

Despite Pakistan's decision to pull out from the meet amid diplomatic tensions with India, the organisers said they will accept a late entry

Amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, Islamabad has decided not to participate in the Conference of Parties (COP)7, the largest global anti-tobacco conference to be held in India next week. According to the organisers, Pakistan expressed regret at pulling out of the meeting after invitations were sent to all the member nations and parties. Co-organised by the WHO (World Health Organisation), the governing body COP brings together Framework Convention on Tobacco Control's (FCTC) 180 parties, which includes almost every country in the world as well as regional economic integration organisations like the European Union, according to the WHO. "As of now the information we have is that they will not be able to attend. Of course, if a party like Pakistan says they cannot participate, we don't go further and ask why," said Guangyuan Liu, of the FCTC. "This is totally the decision of the party concerned whether they can participate or not. Yes, we had invited them". Liu, however, added that they will accept Pakistan's registration if they change their mind. "They are entitled to attend if they change their mind," she said. First time hosts, India will be organising the seventh Conference of Parties from November 7 to November 12 in Greater Noida. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena will address the COP as a special speaker on the inaugural day. One of the key issues India will put forth at the conference is the control and regulation of smokeless tobacco. "Tobacco control is a movement we need to work on," said CK Mishra, secretary of India's health & family welfare ministry. The COP will also discuss emerging tobacco products such as electronic tobacco delivering system and institutional matters. Issues for debate at the conference also include alternative livelihoods for tobacco farmers, e-cigarette regulation and trade and investment issues. In an attempt to regulate the use of cancer-causing tobacco, the Indian government had enforced guidelines of pictorial warnings on tobacco products. Tobacco companies in India are required to display pictorial warnings up to 85 per cent on both sides of the packet. But a Parliamentary committee's recommendation that the size of the pictorial warnings need to be only 50 per cent of the packet sparked a controversy with many alleging that the observations portrayed the vested interests of the tobacco lobbyists. According to the WHO, tobacco-related diseases kill over 10 lakh Indians every year. (WION)

COP7: Pakistan to skip anti-tobacco conference in India next week

india-pakistan

India Pakistan, News on India Pakistan, stories on India Pakistan, articles on India Pakistan, India Pakistan stories at Wion, India Pakistan news, India Pakistan latest news

india pakistan