In the wake of India's decision to strip special status of Jammu and Kashmir, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-support-direct-dialogue-between-india-pak-on-kashmir-us-state-department-241415">Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory</a> aggression, including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control (LoC) and take demonstrable action against terror infrastructure on its soil, said a joint statement by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday.

The statement issued by Representative Eliot L. Engel, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-partially-closes-its-airspace-with-india-on-eastern-front-241404">Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs</a> Committee and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that transparency and political participation are the cornerstones of representative democracies and hoped that the Indian government would abide by these principles in Jammu and Kashmir.

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"As the world's largest democracy, India has an opportunity to demonstrate for all its citizens the importance of protecting and promoting equal rights, including freedom of assembly, access to information, and equal protection under the law," the statement said. &nbsp;

"Transparency and political participation are the cornerstones of representative democracies and we hope the India government will abide by these principles in Jammu and Kasmir," it added.

"And at the same time, Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory aggression--including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control--and take demonstrable action against the&nbsp;infrastructure on Pakistan's soil," the statement said.

The joint statement comes amid spiralling tensions between India and Pakistan which came after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 that granted to Jammu and Kashmir and a bill bifurcating the border state into two Union Territories earlier this week.

Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.&nbsp;

In the wake of India's decision to strip special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory aggression, including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control (LoC) and take demonstrable action against terror infrastructure on its soil, said a joint statement by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday.

In the wake of India's decision to strip special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory aggression, including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control (LoC) and take demonstrable action against terror infrastructure on its soil, said a joint statement by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday. The statement issued by Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that transparency and political participation are the cornerstones of representative democracies and hoped that the Indian government would abide by these principles in Jammu and Kashmir. Watch Video: "As the world's largest democracy, India has an opportunity to demonstrate for all its citizens the importance of protecting and promoting equal rights, including freedom of assembly, access to information, and equal protection under the law," the statement said. "Transparency and political participation are the cornerstones of representative democracies and we hope the India government will abide by these principles in Jammu and Kasmir," it added. "And at the same time, Pakistan must refrain from any retaliatory aggression--including support for infiltrations across the Line of Control--and take demonstrable action against the infrastructure on Pakistan's soil," the statement said. The joint statement comes amid spiralling tensions between India and Pakistan which came after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 that granted to Jammu and Kashmir and a bill bifurcating the border state into two Union Territories earlier this week. Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Pak must stop supporting infiltration across LoC: US Senate foreign affairs committee

Tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir have the potential to blow up into a regional crisis and it is the right time for US President Donald Trump to mediate, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Sunday.

"President Trump offered to mediate on Kashmir. This is the time to do so as the situation deteriorates there and along the LOC (line of control) with new aggressive actions being taken by Indian occupation forces," Khan said on Twitter.

The latest statement came days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-tells-pakistan-to-receive-the-bodies-of-slain-army-regulars-terrorists-240534">Indian Army foiled an infiltration attempt</a> by Pakistani Border Action Team&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir's Keran Sector while eliminating five-seven Pakistani Army regulars and terrorists.

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President Trump offered to mediate on Kashmir. This is the time to do so as situation deteriorates there and along the LOC with new aggressive actions being taken by Indian occupation forces. This has the potential to blow up into a regional crisis.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1157963122981920768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This has the potential to blow up into a regional crisis," Khan said.

India accuses Pakistan of funding armed terrorists, as well as separatist groups in Kashmir. Islamabad denies any wrongdoing, saying it provides only diplomatic and moral support to a separatist movement.

In July, Trump told reporters that&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked him during a meeting in Japan if he would like to be a mediator on Kashmir. India denied that Modi ever asked for any mediation.

Tensions have been high in the Kashmir region since Friday when the&nbsp;government issued an alert over possible terrorist attacks by Pakistan-based groups.

Pakistan has rejected those assertions, but thousands of Indian tourists, pilgrims and workers have left the region in panic.

India on Saturday said it had killed at least five Pakistan-based militants who tried to attack its forces, an allegation Pakistan denied.

Tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir have the potential to blow up into a regional crisis and it is the right time for US President Donald Trump to mediate, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Sunday.

Tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir have the potential to blow up into a regional crisis and it is the right time for US President Donald Trump to mediate, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Sunday. "President Trump offered to mediate on Kashmir. This is the time to do so as the situation deteriorates there and along the LOC (line of control) with new aggressive actions being taken by Indian occupation forces," Khan said on Twitter. The latest statement came days after the Indian Army foiled an infiltration attempt by Pakistani Border Action Team in Jammu and Kashmir's Keran Sector while eliminating five-seven Pakistani Army regulars and terrorists. President Trump offered to mediate on Kashmir. This is the time to do so as situation deteriorates there and along the LOC with new aggressive actions being taken by Indian occupation forces. This has the potential to blow up into a regional crisis. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) August 4, 2019 × "This has the potential to blow up into a regional crisis," Khan said. India accuses Pakistan of funding armed terrorists, as well as separatist groups in Kashmir. Islamabad denies any wrongdoing, saying it provides only diplomatic and moral support to a separatist movement. In July, Trump told reporters that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked him during a meeting in Japan if he would like to be a mediator on Kashmir. India denied that Modi ever asked for any mediation. Tensions have been high in the Kashmir region since Friday when the government issued an alert over possible terrorist attacks by Pakistan-based groups. Pakistan has rejected those assertions, but thousands of Indian tourists, pilgrims and workers have left the region in panic. India on Saturday said it had killed at least five Pakistan-based militants who tried to attack its forces, an allegation Pakistan denied.

Right time for Donald Trump mediation on Kashmir as situation deteriorates: Pakistan PM Imran Khan

India's tennis team will travel to Pakistan for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/croatia-captain-zeljko-krajan-hails-his-davis-cup-dream-team-179511">Davis Cup</a> tie, the country's governing body chief confirmed Monday, despite strained relations between the nations.

Sporting ties between the two nuclear-armed countries, which have fought three wars since gaining independence from the British in 1947, are frozen with India accusing Pakistan of exporting terror.

Long-running political tensions were heightened in February after a deadly suicide attack -- claimed by a militant group based in Pakistan -- in Indian-administered Kashmir killed 40 Indian troops.&nbsp;

But the All India Tennis Association (AITA) said the government had no issues with the players crossing the border for the Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie to be held on September 14 and 15.

"Yes, they are set to tour Pakistan," AITA president Praveen Mahajan told AFP. "We informed the government about it and they were OK with it.

"We did not require clearance from them because it is an international event but we do not do anything without asking the government."

India cut bilateral cricket ties with its neighbour after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, with authorities blaming Pakistani militants.

Some Indian fans and ex-players called for the team to boycott its recent cricket World Cup match against Pakistan. After India's victory, a top minister described the triumph as "another strike" on enemy territory.

An Indian team last toured Pakistan in 1964 for the Davis Cup, where they defeated the hosts 4-0.

Pakistan lost 3-2 when they toured Mumbai in 2006.

Until a few years ago, Pakistan was forced to host its home Davis Cup ties at neutral venues as teams refused to travel to the South Asian nation over security concerns.

But Mahajan said India has not demanded any "special security" arrangements for the upcoming tie to be played at the grass courts of the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad.

India is likely to announce their touring squad in the first week of August. 
&nbsp;

India's tennis team will travel to Pakistan for their Davis Cup tie, the country's governing body chief confirmed Monday, despite strained relations between the nations.

India's tennis team will travel to Pakistan for their Davis Cup tie, the country's governing body chief confirmed Monday, despite strained relations between the nations. Sporting ties between the two nuclear-armed countries, which have fought three wars since gaining independence from the British in 1947, are frozen with India accusing Pakistan of exporting terror. Long-running political tensions were heightened in February after a deadly suicide attack -- claimed by a militant group based in Pakistan -- in Indian-administered Kashmir killed 40 Indian troops. But the All India Tennis Association (AITA) said the government had no issues with the players crossing the border for the Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie to be held on September 14 and 15. "Yes, they are set to tour Pakistan," AITA president Praveen Mahajan told AFP. "We informed the government about it and they were OK with it. "We did not require clearance from them because it is an international event but we do not do anything without asking the government." India cut bilateral cricket ties with its neighbour after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, with authorities blaming Pakistani militants. Some Indian fans and ex-players called for the team to boycott its recent cricket World Cup match against Pakistan. After India's victory, a top minister described the triumph as "another strike" on enemy territory. An Indian team last toured Pakistan in 1964 for the Davis Cup, where they defeated the hosts 4-0. Pakistan lost 3-2 when they toured Mumbai in 2006. Until a few years ago, Pakistan was forced to host its home Davis Cup ties at neutral venues as teams refused to travel to the South Asian nation over security concerns. But Mahajan said India has not demanded any "special security" arrangements for the upcoming tie to be played at the grass courts of the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad. India is likely to announce their touring squad in the first week of August.

India to travel to Pakistan for Davis Cup tie

Pakistan's Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations, Asif Ghafoor, attracted ridicule after posting a doctored video of war hero and retired IAF Air Marshal, Denzil Keelor on Sunday.

Ghafoor shared a video of Keelor on his Twitter account, claiming that the war veteran was talking about the "Indian failure" during the dogfight between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/20th-year-of-kargil-war-indian-air-force-turns-gwalior-air-base-into-war-theatre-229911">Indian Air Force</a> (IAF) and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on February 27 this year, just a day <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-response-post-uri-and-balakot-demonstrates-political-and-military-will-army-chief-235496">after the Balakot airstrikes</a>.

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Admission of Indian failure and losses on 27 February 2019 by a well decorated Indian Airforce veteran Air Marshal Denzil Keelor.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Surprise?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Surprise</a> <a href="https://t.co/uTeErbucCl">pic.twitter.com/uTeErbucCl</a>
— Asif Ghafoor (@peaceforchange) <a href="https://twitter.com/peaceforchange/status/1155328806246408194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Netizens were quick to point out that the video was recorded in 2015, approximately four years before the Balakot and its ensuing incidents occurred in 2019.

In fact, the interview titled 'Nehru lost India the war: Air Marshal Denzil Keelor speaks about India's battle losses'&nbsp;was posted by Wilderness Films India on Aug 9, 2015, on the video-sharing website, YouTube.

The former Air Marshal was invited by the production house for a talk on the wars of 1962 and 1965, according to its description.

Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman's clip -- which was released by the Pakistani military -- can be seen on the top right of the screen in the video posted by Ghafoor.

The DG ISPR's doctored video is interspersed with visuals of a crashed plane.

Twitterati strongly reacted to Ghafoor's post, with many poking fun at his gaffe.

"Gafoora tomorrow will claim he landed on moon," a Twitter user stated in response.

"You leave no stone unturned to advertise your incurable 'foot in mouth'&nbsp;disease. At your level, you should refrain from peddling amateurish morphed videos that make you a laughing stock on global platform. Kindly get a better video editor who bothers to edit out the giveaways," another Twitter user @Shonkho wrote.

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You leave no stone unturned to advertise your incurable 'foot in mouth' disease. At your level, you should refrain from peddling amateurish morphed videos that make you a laughing stock on global platform. Kindly get a better video editor who bothers to edit out the giveaways.
— Arijit Datta Ray (@Shonkho) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shonkho/status/1155358847663579136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Falling short of an apology, Ghafoor later acknowledged that the Keelor clip shared by him was indeed doctored.

"The clip of Air Marshal is revealed to be doctored through inset. Admission and expression were too identical to differentiate. Unintentional omission is acknowledged, especially to Indians. Nonetheless, the environment remained unchanged for IAF on both the occasions," he tweeted.

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The clip of Air Marshal is revealed to be doctored through inset. Admission and expression were too identical to differentiate. Unintentional omission is acknowledged, especially to Indians. 
Nonetheless, environment remained unchanged for IAF on both the occasions.
— Asif Ghafoor (@peaceforchange) <a href="https://twitter.com/peaceforchange/status/1155397799732817920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The DG ISPR is yet to delete the video or formally apologise for his misstep. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations, Asif Ghafoor, attracted ridicule after posting a doctored video of war hero and retired IAF Air Marshal, Denzil Keelor on Sunday.

Pakistan's Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations, Asif Ghafoor, attracted ridicule after posting a doctored video of war hero and retired IAF Air Marshal, Denzil Keelor on Sunday. Ghafoor shared a video of Keelor on his Twitter account, claiming that the war veteran was talking about the "Indian failure" during the dogfight between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on February 27 this year, just a day after the Balakot airstrikes. Admission of Indian failure and losses on 27 February 2019 by a well decorated Indian Airforce veteran Air Marshal Denzil Keelor.#Surprise pic.twitter.com/uTeErbucCl — Asif Ghafoor (@peaceforchange) July 28, 2019 × Netizens were quick to point out that the video was recorded in 2015, approximately four years before the Balakot and its ensuing incidents occurred in 2019. In fact, the interview titled 'Nehru lost India the war: Air Marshal Denzil Keelor speaks about India's battle losses' was posted by Wilderness Films India on Aug 9, 2015, on the video-sharing website, YouTube. The former Air Marshal was invited by the production house for a talk on the wars of 1962 and 1965, according to its description. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman's clip -- which was released by the Pakistani military -- can be seen on the top right of the screen in the video posted by Ghafoor. The DG ISPR's doctored video is interspersed with visuals of a crashed plane. Twitterati strongly reacted to Ghafoor's post, with many poking fun at his gaffe. "Gafoora tomorrow will claim he landed on moon," a Twitter user stated in response. "You leave no stone unturned to advertise your incurable 'foot in mouth' disease. At your level, you should refrain from peddling amateurish morphed videos that make you a laughing stock on global platform. Kindly get a better video editor who bothers to edit out the giveaways," another Twitter user @Shonkho wrote. You leave no stone unturned to advertise your incurable 'foot in mouth' disease. At your level, you should refrain from peddling amateurish morphed videos that make you a laughing stock on global platform. Kindly get a better video editor who bothers to edit out the giveaways. — Arijit Datta Ray (@Shonkho) July 28, 2019 × Falling short of an apology, Ghafoor later acknowledged that the Keelor clip shared by him was indeed doctored. "The clip of Air Marshal is revealed to be doctored through inset. Admission and expression were too identical to differentiate. Unintentional omission is acknowledged, especially to Indians. Nonetheless, the environment remained unchanged for IAF on both the occasions," he tweeted. The clip of Air Marshal is revealed to be doctored through inset. Admission and expression were too identical to differentiate. Unintentional omission is acknowledged, especially to Indians. Nonetheless, environment remained unchanged for IAF on both the occasions. — Asif Ghafoor (@peaceforchange) July 28, 2019 × The DG ISPR is yet to delete the video or formally apologise for his misstep.

Pakistan DG ISPR Asif Ghafoor peddles fake news, posts doctored video of retired Indian Air Force Air Marshal

On May 2, 1999, a man called Tashi Namgyal, a local shepherd living in a small village called Gharkon near mountainous Batalik town of Kargil spotted six men breaking stones and clearing the snow when he was looking for his list Yak. This was unusual for Tashi as he saw no footprints leading to the spot and it was clear that they had come from the other side. The men wore Pathani dress and army uniforms, few of them carried weapons too. &nbsp;

Tashi was the first to report the infiltration in Kargil to the army and it was after his information that a team was sent to scan the area. What the group of 20-25 Indian army men found was surprising...men with arms and ammunition getting ready. On his information, the Indian army moved quickly and minimised the possible damage.&nbsp;

He is upset with the successive governments for failing to recognise his work. He is old now and no longer goes with his cattle. There is no mobile network in his village which is almost 70 kilometres away from Kargil city.&nbsp;

WION's Ieshan Wani travelled to meet him at his village located near a mountain ridge. Here's an excerpt from the interview.&nbsp;

WION: What did you see on that day? How old were you then?

Tashi: I was 30-years-old. I had lost my Yak and was looking for him in the mountains near Garkhun stream. I was carrying my binoculars with me and started scanning the area. While looking for my yak, I saw six people on top. The snow was everywhere and they were removing snow and looking for stones. I halted there for around 10 minutes and rushed back to my village. Army men from three Punjab used to be stationed here. First, I narrated the entire thing to a guard commander by the name Balbindar Singh, this was on May 2, 1999. He replied that the army patrolling party had just come from that area. I insisted them to investigate the matter as this was unusual.

Around 8 in the evening, Balbindar came to my house and asked me to stay home the next morning, as a commanding officer was coming to meet me. After an hour, he came back, asking me to be ready at 5 in the morning, as an army vehicle will come to pick me up.&nbsp;

At 5, I was taken to the Batalik sector where an officer asked me what I saw? I told him again that I saw six people breaking the stones and removing the snow. On this, he replied, we keep getting such reports but if this is true, we will gift you and if the information is wrong, we will see you.&nbsp;

Then they sent 20 to 25 army men with me. I took them to the place where I saw the six men. On spotting them they went through the other area for the ambush. But there Pakistani army and militants were everywhere and ready. Just after eight days of my report, the war started. For three months continuously, the fighting was going on in this area.&nbsp;

WION: You are also a witness to this war. What did you do during that period?

Tashi: I took my kids towards Khalsi village and from this village, artillery was being fired like rain. Many army units came here with a lot of weaponry. For three months, local people helped the army in bringing the weapons. We even took the weapons to high mountains after shifting our families to safety. People volunteered and helped the army. We would just hear blasts for three months.&nbsp;

WION: What has changed in this village?

Tashi: We don't even have a mobile tower, what change will I talk about?

WION: How did you feel after giving your report which proved important for the country?

Tashi: I never got any civil award. My report was 100 per cent accurate. No one even enquires about me. I saved the entire Ladakh through my report. God knows what would've happened, had I not told the army. Modi is a good man, I hope he reads this report and gives me much deserved recognition. No one speaks about me, not even the local ministers. I still wait for the day when I get an award. Even my kids feel sorry for me.&nbsp;

WION: You are the hero of the Kargil war. Has your life changed?

Tashi: A little has but I am illiterate and I feel that's the reason why I couldn't reach anywhere in my life. India is my country, I was born here and will always stand for it. Pakistan was badly defeated and I'm sure there are many dead bodies of Pakistani soldiers in the mountains. They came like rats.&nbsp;

WION: What's your message to the current government?

Tashi: I just want to tell them that my work should be recognised. I am waiting for the day.&nbsp;

On May 2, 1999, a man called Tashi Namgyal, a local shepherd living in a small village called Gharkon near mountainous Batalik town of Kargil spotted six men breaking stones and clearing the snow when he was looking for his list Yak.

On May 2, 1999, a man called Tashi Namgyal, a local shepherd living in a small village called Gharkon near mountainous Batalik town of Kargil spotted six men breaking stones and clearing the snow when he was looking for his list Yak. This was unusual for Tashi as he saw no footprints leading to the spot and it was clear that they had come from the other side. The men wore Pathani dress and army uniforms, few of them carried weapons too. Tashi was the first to report the infiltration in Kargil to the army and it was after his information that a team was sent to scan the area. What the group of 20-25 Indian army men found was surprising...men with arms and ammunition getting ready. On his information, the Indian army moved quickly and minimised the possible damage. He is upset with the successive governments for failing to recognise his work. He is old now and no longer goes with his cattle. There is no mobile network in his village which is almost 70 kilometres away from Kargil city. WION's Ieshan Wani travelled to meet him at his village located near a mountain ridge. Here's an excerpt from the interview. WION: What did you see on that day? How old were you then? Tashi: I was 30-years-old. I had lost my Yak and was looking for him in the mountains near Garkhun stream. I was carrying my binoculars with me and started scanning the area. While looking for my yak, I saw six people on top. The snow was everywhere and they were removing snow and looking for stones. I halted there for around 10 minutes and rushed back to my village. Army men from three Punjab used to be stationed here. First, I narrated the entire thing to a guard commander by the name Balbindar Singh, this was on May 2, 1999. He replied that the army patrolling party had just come from that area. I insisted them to investigate the matter as this was unusual. Around 8 in the evening, Balbindar came to my house and asked me to stay home the next morning, as a commanding officer was coming to meet me. After an hour, he came back, asking me to be ready at 5 in the morning, as an army vehicle will come to pick me up. At 5, I was taken to the Batalik sector where an officer asked me what I saw? I told him again that I saw six people breaking the stones and removing the snow. On this, he replied, we keep getting such reports but if this is true, we will gift you and if the information is wrong, we will see you. Then they sent 20 to 25 army men with me. I took them to the place where I saw the six men. On spotting them they went through the other area for the ambush. But there Pakistani army and militants were everywhere and ready. Just after eight days of my report, the war started. For three months continuously, the fighting was going on in this area. WION: You are also a witness to this war. What did you do during that period? Tashi: I took my kids towards Khalsi village and from this village, artillery was being fired like rain. Many army units came here with a lot of weaponry. For three months, local people helped the army in bringing the weapons. We even took the weapons to high mountains after shifting our families to safety. People volunteered and helped the army. We would just hear blasts for three months. WION: What has changed in this village? Tashi: We don't even have a mobile tower, what change will I talk about? WION: How did you feel after giving your report which proved important for the country? Tashi: I never got any civil award. My report was 100 per cent accurate. No one even enquires about me. I saved the entire Ladakh through my report. God knows what would've happened, had I not told the army. Modi is a good man, I hope he reads this report and gives me much deserved recognition. No one speaks about me, not even the local ministers. I still wait for the day when I get an award. Even my kids feel sorry for me. WION: You are the hero of the Kargil war. Has your life changed? Tashi: A little has but I am illiterate and I feel that's the reason why I couldn't reach anywhere in my life. India is my country, I was born here and will always stand for it. Pakistan was badly defeated and I'm sure there are many dead bodies of Pakistani soldiers in the mountains. They came like rats. WION: What's your message to the current government? Tashi: I just want to tell them that my work should be recognised. I am waiting for the day.

Kargil War: Shepherd who informed Indian army of Pakistan infiltration still awaits recognition

Calling US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rubbishes-donald-trumps-claim-that-pm-modi-asked-him-to-mediate-in-resolving-kashmir-issue-237794">Donald Trump</a> remarks on Kashmir issue 'shocking', Former Special Secretary Tilak Devasher on Monday said Kashmir is not up for a deal and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trumps-statement-on-kashmir-amateurish-embarrassing-congressman-brad-sherman-237812">Donald Trump</a> needs to understand this.

Tilak called Trump's remark immature and childlike and said that this is a childish remark from the leader of the most powerful country in the world. Kashmir is not up for a deal Donald Trump needs to understand this.

"The United States will have to do a lot of damage control after Trump's statement over Kashmir. Let's hope it will not damage the India-US relationship," he added.

Former diplomat and an expert of India-US relations Arun K Singh termed Trump's Kashmir remark 'damaging'.

He said that Donald Trump makes an irresponsible statement to attract attention.

Singh also said that with his claim on Kashmir mediation Trump has created a dent to India-US relations. Those who have been doubting the United States as a reliable partner of India, their belief has been strengthened.

On Monday evening, Donald Trump, during his meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House, offered to mediate between the two countries to resolve the issue of Kashmir.

Trump said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked him to help ease tensions between the two neighbouring countries on the “disputed” Kashmir region and that he would love to be a mediator.

Calling US President Donald Trump remarks on Kashmir issue 'shocking', Former Special Secretary Tilak Devasher on Monday said Kashmir is not up for a deal and Donald Trump needs to understand this.

Calling US President Donald Trump remarks on Kashmir issue 'shocking', Former Special Secretary Tilak Devasher on Monday said Kashmir is not up for a deal and Donald Trump needs to understand this. Tilak called Trump's remark immature and childlike and said that this is a childish remark from the leader of the most powerful country in the world. Kashmir is not up for a deal Donald Trump needs to understand this. "The United States will have to do a lot of damage control after Trump's statement over Kashmir. Let's hope it will not damage the India-US relationship," he added. Former diplomat and an expert of India-US relations Arun K Singh termed Trump's Kashmir remark 'damaging'. He said that Donald Trump makes an irresponsible statement to attract attention. Singh also said that with his claim on Kashmir mediation Trump has created a dent to India-US relations. Those who have been doubting the United States as a reliable partner of India, their belief has been strengthened. On Monday evening, Donald Trump, during his meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House, offered to mediate between the two countries to resolve the issue of Kashmir. Trump said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked him to help ease tensions between the two neighbouring countries on the “disputed” Kashmir region and that he would love to be a mediator.

Kashmir is not up for a deal, Trump needs to understand this, say experts

Hours after President Donald Trump claimed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rubbishes-donald-trumps-claim-that-pm-modi-asked-him-to-mediate-in-resolving-kashmir-issue-237794">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> invited him for third-party mediation on Kashmir issue, US State Department on Monday said that the matter is a bilateral issue concerning Islamabad and New Delhi, however, Washington is "ready to assist".

"While Kashmir is a bilateral issue for both parties to discuss, the Trump administration welcomes Pakistan and India sitting down and the United States stands ready to assist. We believe the foundation for any successful dialogue between India and Pakistan is based on Pakistan taking sustained and irreversible steps against militants and terrorists on its territory," US state department spokesperson told ANI.

"These actions are in line with Prime Minister Khan`s stated commitments, and Pakistan`s international obligations. We will continue to support efforts that reduce tensions and create an environment conducive for dialogue. This first and foremost means tackling the menace of terrorism. As the President indicated, we stand ready to assist," it added.

Earlier in the day, Trump said that Modi had asked him to act as a mediator to resolve the Kashmir issue.

"So I was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi two weeks ago and we talked about this subject. And he actually said, would you actually like to be a mediator or arbitrator? Did I say, where? He said Kashmir because this has been going for many, many years. I was surprised at how long it has been going on," said Trump, who was hosting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House.

"It should be resolved, so he has to think the same thing, so maybe I will speak to him and we will see what we can do," he added.

However, the US state department in its statement did not comment on T<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rubbishes-donald-trumps-claim-that-pm-modi-asked-him-to-mediate-in-resolving-kashmir-issue-237794">rump's claim on Modi asking for his assistance to play the role of mediator</a> to resolve Kashmir issue.

After Trump made remarks on Kashmir, India in a swift response clarified that no such request was made by Modi to the US President.

"We have seen @POTUS's remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate if requested by India &amp; Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM @narendramodi to US President. It has been India's consistent position," tweeted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

"...that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross border terrorism. The Shimla Agreement &amp; the Lahore Declaration provide the basis to resolve all issues between India &amp; Pakistan bilaterally," he said in a subsequent tweet.

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We have seen <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>'s remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate, if requested by India &amp; Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to US President. It has been India's consistent position...1/2
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1153371327371173895?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Hours after President Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited him for third-party mediation on Kashmir issue, US State Department on Monday said that the matter is a bilateral issue concerning Islamabad and New Delhi, however, Washington is "ready to assist".

Hours after President Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited him for third-party mediation on Kashmir issue, US State Department on Monday said that the matter is a bilateral issue concerning Islamabad and New Delhi, however, Washington is "ready to assist". "While Kashmir is a bilateral issue for both parties to discuss, the Trump administration welcomes Pakistan and India sitting down and the United States stands ready to assist. We believe the foundation for any successful dialogue between India and Pakistan is based on Pakistan taking sustained and irreversible steps against militants and terrorists on its territory," US state department spokesperson told ANI. "These actions are in line with Prime Minister Khan`s stated commitments, and Pakistan`s international obligations. We will continue to support efforts that reduce tensions and create an environment conducive for dialogue. This first and foremost means tackling the menace of terrorism. As the President indicated, we stand ready to assist," it added. Earlier in the day, Trump said that Modi had asked him to act as a mediator to resolve the Kashmir issue. "So I was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi two weeks ago and we talked about this subject. And he actually said, would you actually like to be a mediator or arbitrator? Did I say, where? He said Kashmir because this has been going for many, many years. I was surprised at how long it has been going on," said Trump, who was hosting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House. "It should be resolved, so he has to think the same thing, so maybe I will speak to him and we will see what we can do," he added. However, the US state department in its statement did not comment on Trump's claim on Modi asking for his assistance to play the role of mediator to resolve Kashmir issue. After Trump made remarks on Kashmir, India in a swift response clarified that no such request was made by Modi to the US President. "We have seen @POTUS's remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate if requested by India & Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM @narendramodi to US President. It has been India's consistent position," tweeted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. "...that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross border terrorism. The Shimla Agreement & the Lahore Declaration provide the basis to resolve all issues between India & Pakistan bilaterally," he said in a subsequent tweet. We have seen @POTUS's remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate, if requested by India & Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM @narendramodi to US President. It has been India's consistent position...1/2 — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) July 22, 2019 ×

Kashmir is bilateral issue, US ready to assist: State Department

Calling US President Donald Trump remarks on Kashmir issue "amateurish" and "delusional", Congressman Brad Sherman on Monday said Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rubbishes-donald-trumps-claim-that-pm-modi-asked-him-to-mediate-in-resolving-kashmir-issue-237794">Narendra Modi would never ask Trump to act as a mediator</a>.

"Everyone who knows anything about foreign policy in South Asia knows that #India consistently opposes third-party mediation in #Kashmir. Everyone knows PM Modi would never suggest such a thing. Trump's statement is amateurish and delusional. And embarrassing," tweeted Sherman.

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Everyone who knows anything about foreign policy in South Asia knows that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> consistently opposes third-party mediation re <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a>. Everyone knows PM Modi would never suggest such a thing. Trump’s statement is amateurish and delusional. And embarrassing. 1/2
— Rep. Brad Sherman (@BradSherman) <a href="https://twitter.com/BradSherman/status/1153401420881768448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sherman remarks came hours after Trump said that Modi had asked him to act as a mediator to resolve the Kashmir issue.

"So I was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi two weeks ago and we talked about this subject. And he actually said, would you actually like to be a mediator or arbitrator? Did I say, where? He said Kashmir because this has been going for many, many years. I was surprised at how long it has been going on," said Trump, who was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/could-win-afghanistan-war-in-a-week-or-ten-days-but-chose-not-to-do-so-says-donald-trump-in-meeting-with-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-237798">hosting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House</a>.

"It should be resolved, so he has to think the same thing, so maybe I will speak to him and we will see what we can do," he added.

Meanwhile, India also clarified that no such request was made by Modi to the US President.

"We have seen @POTUS's remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate if requested by India &amp; Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM @narendramodi to US President. It has been India's consistent position," tweeted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

"...that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross border terrorism. The Shimla Agreement &amp; the Lahore Declaration provide the basis to resolve all issues between India &amp; Pakistan bilaterally," he said in a subsequent tweet.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We have seen <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>'s remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate, if requested by India &amp; Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to US President. It has been India's consistent position...1/2
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1153371327371173895?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Calling US President Donald Trump remarks on Kashmir issue "amateurish" and "delusional", Congressman Brad Sherman on Monday said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would never ask Trump to act as a mediator.

Calling US President Donald Trump remarks on Kashmir issue "amateurish" and "delusional", Congressman Brad Sherman on Monday said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would never ask Trump to act as a mediator. "Everyone who knows anything about foreign policy in South Asia knows that #India consistently opposes third-party mediation in #Kashmir. Everyone knows PM Modi would never suggest such a thing. Trump's statement is amateurish and delusional. And embarrassing," tweeted Sherman. Everyone who knows anything about foreign policy in South Asia knows that #India consistently opposes third-party mediation re #Kashmir. Everyone knows PM Modi would never suggest such a thing. Trump’s statement is amateurish and delusional. And embarrassing. 1/2 — Rep. Brad Sherman (@BradSherman) July 22, 2019 × Sherman remarks came hours after Trump said that Modi had asked him to act as a mediator to resolve the Kashmir issue. "So I was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi two weeks ago and we talked about this subject. And he actually said, would you actually like to be a mediator or arbitrator? Did I say, where? He said Kashmir because this has been going for many, many years. I was surprised at how long it has been going on," said Trump, who was hosting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House. "It should be resolved, so he has to think the same thing, so maybe I will speak to him and we will see what we can do," he added. Meanwhile, India also clarified that no such request was made by Modi to the US President. "We have seen @POTUS's remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate if requested by India & Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM @narendramodi to US President. It has been India's consistent position," tweeted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. "...that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross border terrorism. The Shimla Agreement & the Lahore Declaration provide the basis to resolve all issues between India & Pakistan bilaterally," he said in a subsequent tweet. We have seen @POTUS's remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate, if requested by India & Pakistan, on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM @narendramodi to US President. It has been India's consistent position...1/2 — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) July 22, 2019 ×

Trump's statement on Kashmir 'amateurish', 'embarrassing': US Congressman Brad Sherman

A US-based non-profit organisation, the South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation, has written a letter to US President Donald Trump highlighting the abuses faced by Mohajirs in Pakistan, ahead of the leader`s meeting with the South Asian country`s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-meets-pakistan-businessmen-during-us-visit-237467">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> on Monday.

In his letter, the organisation`s founder, Nadeem Nusrat, urged Trump to "raise several critical issues" with Khan during their upcoming meeting.&nbsp;

This includes the state of affairs in Karachi -- home to Mohajirs -- which remains deprived of even the most basic civic facilities, according to Nadeem.

He highlighted that Karachi`s millions of frustrated, poor, and unemployed, yet talented and educated, youth could easily fall prey to religious extremists, including ISIS, which recently vowed to make Pakistan its next powerbase.

"Reforms in Karachi are the key to turning the corner on resisting the terrorist sanctuaries in Pakistan to benefit not only the interest of the US but those of the civilized world," Nadeem stated in his letter.

"As we all know, criminal and terrorist forces thrive in places where frustration, poverty and hunger dominate. This is why it is critical from the US safety and security perspective to work closely with Pakistan to ensure justice for people living in urban Sindh. Again, largescale political and financial reforms in Karachi are key to the elimination of the terrorist elements in Pakistan," he added.

He highlighted a few focus areas in Karachi which could be raised during the Khan-Trump meeting.&nbsp;

They range from the fair representation of the people of Karachi to the persecution of Mohajirs, or Indian Muslims who migrated to Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947.

"There must be a crack-down on the draconian brutality of the actions of the quasi-military police force which is the source of deaths, kidnappings, enforced disappearances, political engineering, and basic civil rights abuses," Nadeem said.

"Law and order is a serious issue in Karachi. Over 90 per cent of the personnel of every law enforcement agency operating in Karachi is recruited from outside the city. At first brush, that may not seem important. However, we get back to the ethnic and cultural prejudice," he wrote.

"The large majority of Karachi citizens subject to these abuses are Urdu-speaking Mohajirs: Mohajirs are the descendants of those Indian Muslims who migrated to Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947; The religious, cultural and ethnic differences of these Mohajirs from the law enforcement personnel, who are not Mohajirs, is the basis of the gross human rights atrocities," Nadeem stated.

"These non-local security forces treat citizens of Karachi with utmost disrespect and contempt. Human rights violations are a daily occurrence and thousands of Karachi`s citizens have gone missing in the last few years after being taken into unlawful custody by non-local law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;

Around 25,000 people in Karachi have also been killed in fake encounters at the hands of police and paramilitary forces," he said, highlighting the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan.

He also outlined that a few law enforcement agencies patronise and protect organised criminal gangs -- known as tanker mafia -- that steal Karachi`s water from main pipelines and sell it to Karachi`s poor residents through privately-owned tankers at exorbitant prices.

"In addition, two federal governments in Pakistan, in 1990 and 1996, were dissolved due to their involvement in extrajudicial executions of Karachi citizens, but the state has prosecuted even a single culprit responsible for these crimes against humanity. These facts have been reported by Amnesty International, UNO`s Commission on Human Rights, UNO`s Special Group on Enforced and Involuntary Disappearance, as well as many other independent human rights organizations," he added.

Nadeem further stated that these intimidation tactics to politically control the population of Karachi through the denial of basic human needs and the right of representation are adverse to the political and security interest of the US.

"If it continues, ISIS and similar terrorist organisations can prey on the vulnerabilities of this Karachi population and find sanctuaries there...Chinese influence is sneaking its way into the Karachi vicinity and maybe in a position, with the direct or indirect approval of the Pakistan government, to lure those needy citizens of Karachi to work and thereby be brought into the influence of the Chinese government," he stated.

"The World Bank has catalogued even more problems than I have described in this letter that the city of Karachi is facing. The authors of the report have made some important recommendations besides strongly urging the Pakistan Government to spend at least 10 billion dollars every year on top of the city`s regular annual budget to make Karachi a viable city. Both federal and Sindh governments, however, have refused to implement any of those recommendations," the founder said.

He requested Trump to instruct the US State Department and the USAID to work closely with Karachi and Pakistan`s elected leadership to promote fair representation of the citizens of Karachi in the local and national government, free speech, religious freedom, free trade, freedom from oppressive para-military police force actions and provide opportunities for basic human development.

A US-based non-profit organisation, the South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation, has written a letter to US President Donald Trump highlighting the abuses faced by Mohajirs in Pakistan, ahead of the leader`s meeting with the South Asian country`s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday.

A US-based non-profit organisation, the South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation, has written a letter to US President Donald Trump highlighting the abuses faced by Mohajirs in Pakistan, ahead of the leader`s meeting with the South Asian country`s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday. In his letter, the organisation`s founder, Nadeem Nusrat, urged Trump to "raise several critical issues" with Khan during their upcoming meeting. This includes the state of affairs in Karachi -- home to Mohajirs -- which remains deprived of even the most basic civic facilities, according to Nadeem. He highlighted that Karachi`s millions of frustrated, poor, and unemployed, yet talented and educated, youth could easily fall prey to religious extremists, including ISIS, which recently vowed to make Pakistan its next powerbase. "Reforms in Karachi are the key to turning the corner on resisting the terrorist sanctuaries in Pakistan to benefit not only the interest of the US but those of the civilized world," Nadeem stated in his letter. "As we all know, criminal and terrorist forces thrive in places where frustration, poverty and hunger dominate. This is why it is critical from the US safety and security perspective to work closely with Pakistan to ensure justice for people living in urban Sindh. Again, largescale political and financial reforms in Karachi are key to the elimination of the terrorist elements in Pakistan," he added. He highlighted a few focus areas in Karachi which could be raised during the Khan-Trump meeting. They range from the fair representation of the people of Karachi to the persecution of Mohajirs, or Indian Muslims who migrated to Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947. "There must be a crack-down on the draconian brutality of the actions of the quasi-military police force which is the source of deaths, kidnappings, enforced disappearances, political engineering, and basic civil rights abuses," Nadeem said. "Law and order is a serious issue in Karachi. Over 90 per cent of the personnel of every law enforcement agency operating in Karachi is recruited from outside the city. At first brush, that may not seem important. However, we get back to the ethnic and cultural prejudice," he wrote. "The large majority of Karachi citizens subject to these abuses are Urdu-speaking Mohajirs: Mohajirs are the descendants of those Indian Muslims who migrated to Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947; The religious, cultural and ethnic differences of these Mohajirs from the law enforcement personnel, who are not Mohajirs, is the basis of the gross human rights atrocities," Nadeem stated. "These non-local security forces treat citizens of Karachi with utmost disrespect and contempt. Human rights violations are a daily occurrence and thousands of Karachi`s citizens have gone missing in the last few years after being taken into unlawful custody by non-local law enforcement agencies. Around 25,000 people in Karachi have also been killed in fake encounters at the hands of police and paramilitary forces," he said, highlighting the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan. He also outlined that a few law enforcement agencies patronise and protect organised criminal gangs -- known as tanker mafia -- that steal Karachi`s water from main pipelines and sell it to Karachi`s poor residents through privately-owned tankers at exorbitant prices. "In addition, two federal governments in Pakistan, in 1990 and 1996, were dissolved due to their involvement in extrajudicial executions of Karachi citizens, but the state has prosecuted even a single culprit responsible for these crimes against humanity. These facts have been reported by Amnesty International, UNO`s Commission on Human Rights, UNO`s Special Group on Enforced and Involuntary Disappearance, as well as many other independent human rights organizations," he added. Nadeem further stated that these intimidation tactics to politically control the population of Karachi through the denial of basic human needs and the right of representation are adverse to the political and security interest of the US. "If it continues, ISIS and similar terrorist organisations can prey on the vulnerabilities of this Karachi population and find sanctuaries there...Chinese influence is sneaking its way into the Karachi vicinity and maybe in a position, with the direct or indirect approval of the Pakistan government, to lure those needy citizens of Karachi to work and thereby be brought into the influence of the Chinese government," he stated. "The World Bank has catalogued even more problems than I have described in this letter that the city of Karachi is facing. The authors of the report have made some important recommendations besides strongly urging the Pakistan Government to spend at least 10 billion dollars every year on top of the city`s regular annual budget to make Karachi a viable city. Both federal and Sindh governments, however, have refused to implement any of those recommendations," the founder said. He requested Trump to instruct the US State Department and the USAID to work closely with Karachi and Pakistan`s elected leadership to promote fair representation of the citizens of Karachi in the local and national government, free speech, religious freedom, free trade, freedom from oppressive para-military police force actions and provide opportunities for basic human development.

Trump apprised of persecution of Mohajirs in Pakistan ahead of meeting with Imran Khan

Pakistan suffered a loss of over eight billion rupees ($50 million) from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-opens-its-air-space-five-months-after-closing-it-in-aftermath-of-balakot-airstrikes-236275">airspace restrictions imposed&nbsp;since February</a>, aviation minister said on Thursday.

"Over eight billion rupees worth of losses have been suffered by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority," Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Pakistan's aviation minister said in a press conference in Karachi.

Closed since February in the aftermath of Balakot strikes by India, Pakistan opened its airspace to international civil aviation on Tuesday.

Pakistan lies in the middle of a vital aviation corridor and the airspace restrictions affected hundreds of commercial and cargo flights each day, adding to flight time for passengers and fuel costs for airlines.

Pakistan had closed its airspace in February after it launched an attack on Indian military installation in response to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/infiltration-in-jammu-and-kashmir-reduced-by-43-after-balakot-airstrike-says-government-234382">Indian strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Balakot</a> on February 26.

The closure of Pakistani airspace had majorly impacted global air traffic especially the Afghans who were coming to India on a regular basis.

The Afghan aviation authority said that closure of Pakistani airspace had led to a loss of $ 27 million to Kabul in addition to disruption of passenger flights and India Afghanistan air corridor.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan suffered a loss of over eight billion rupees ($50 million) from airspace restrictions imposed since February, aviation minister said on Thursday. "Over eight billion rupees worth of losses have been suffered by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority," Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Pakistan's aviation minister said in a press conference in Karachi.

Pakistan suffered a loss of over eight billion rupees ($50 million) from airspace restrictions imposed since February, aviation minister said on Thursday. "Over eight billion rupees worth of losses have been suffered by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority," Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Pakistan's aviation minister said in a press conference in Karachi. Closed since February in the aftermath of Balakot strikes by India, Pakistan opened its airspace to international civil aviation on Tuesday. Pakistan lies in the middle of a vital aviation corridor and the airspace restrictions affected hundreds of commercial and cargo flights each day, adding to flight time for passengers and fuel costs for airlines. Pakistan had closed its airspace in February after it launched an attack on Indian military installation in response to Indian strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Balakot on February 26. The closure of Pakistani airspace had majorly impacted global air traffic especially the Afghans who were coming to India on a regular basis. The Afghan aviation authority said that closure of Pakistani airspace had led to a loss of $ 27 million to Kabul in addition to disruption of passenger flights and India Afghanistan air corridor. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan lost $50 million from airspace restrictions: Aviation minister

The international court of justice(ICJ) will be pronouncing its final verdict in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-writes-to-pakistan-for-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-207577"> Kulbhushan Jadhav case </a>on Wednesday.

The verdict will be given out at 6:30 pm(IST) by the Peace Palace, The Hague by President of the International Court of Justice Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf.

While Pakistan has sent a 13-member delegation led by Attorney General Anwar Mansoor Khan, India will be represented by Joint Secretary (Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) Deepak Mittal and officials from Legal &amp; Treaties Division of the ministry of external affairs.&nbsp;

India had&nbsp;requested the world court to annul the decision of the Pakistani military court and asked for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-claim-for-relief-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-must-be-dismissed-pakistan-to-international-court-of-justice-198829">release of Kulbhushan Jhadav </a>or if he not released, he should be given a trial under ordinary law before a civilian court with the right to India to arrange for his legal representations and full consular access.&nbsp;

The final oral hearing on the case happened earlier this year in February with both sides presenting their arguments.

Both sides ahead of the verdict didn't want to speculate in the high profile case.&nbsp;

While the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"We will have to wait till 17th July. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in public domain.", spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we prepared for the case comprehensively."

Jhadav is an Indian national who was kidnapped by Pakistani spy agency from Iran which Islamabad refuses, saying he was a spy.&nbsp;

India was first informed of his custody by Pakistani authorities on March 25, 2016, after which in 2017, Islamabad announced that a military court has awarded death sentence to him.

New Delhi then went to the world court on May 8, 2017 and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging.

On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan to not go ahead with the execution. The order said, "Pakistan shall take all measures at its disposal to ensure that Mr. Jadhav is not executed pending the final decision in these proceedings and shall inform the Court of all the measures taken in implementation of the present Order."&nbsp;

On 25th December 2017, Pakistan allowed Kulbhushan's mother and wife to meet him in Islamabad, an event that became a media circus with Pakistani foreign ministry even removing footwears and mangalsutra of Kulbhushan's wife.&nbsp;

The international court of justice(ICJ) will be pronouncing its final verdict in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case on Wednesday. The verdict will be given out at 6:30 pm(IST) by the Peace Palace, The Hague by President of the International Court of Justice Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf.

The international court of justice(ICJ) will be pronouncing its final verdict in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case on Wednesday. The verdict will be given out at 6:30 pm(IST) by the Peace Palace, The Hague by President of the International Court of Justice Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf. While Pakistan has sent a 13-member delegation led by Attorney General Anwar Mansoor Khan, India will be represented by Joint Secretary (Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) Deepak Mittal and officials from Legal & Treaties Division of the ministry of external affairs. India had requested the world court to annul the decision of the Pakistani military court and asked for the release of Kulbhushan Jhadav or if he not released, he should be given a trial under ordinary law before a civilian court with the right to India to arrange for his legal representations and full consular access. The final oral hearing on the case happened earlier this year in February with both sides presenting their arguments. Both sides ahead of the verdict didn't want to speculate in the high profile case. While the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"We will have to wait till 17th July. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in public domain.", spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we prepared for the case comprehensively." Jhadav is an Indian national who was kidnapped by Pakistani spy agency from Iran which Islamabad refuses, saying he was a spy. India was first informed of his custody by Pakistani authorities on March 25, 2016, after which in 2017, Islamabad announced that a military court has awarded death sentence to him. New Delhi then went to the world court on May 8, 2017 and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging. On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan to not go ahead with the execution. The order said, "Pakistan shall take all measures at its disposal to ensure that Mr. Jadhav is not executed pending the final decision in these proceedings and shall inform the Court of all the measures taken in implementation of the present Order." On 25th December 2017, Pakistan allowed Kulbhushan's mother and wife to meet him in Islamabad, an event that became a media circus with Pakistani foreign ministry even removing footwears and mangalsutra of Kulbhushan's wife.

Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Will not prejudge verdict, says Pakistan foreign office

Pakistan’s desperation to engage India in talks is palpable. It is not just geo-strategic compulsions prompting its leadership to restart diplomatic parleys, but that country’s collapsing economy that has triggered this response. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on the sidelines of the SCO summit, Pakistan had tried to use Chinese President Xi Jinping to persuade India for holding bilateral talks but Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not budge from the official Indian position of not holding talks until Pakistan dismantles its terrorist infrastructure.

Already, tottering under unprecedented economic crisis, Pakistan cannot afford international sanctions against it. FATF has kept it on its watch list and any terrorist action will weaken its case.&nbsp;

The IAF strike on the Balakot terrorist training camp represents a paradigm shift in the Indian policy of dealing with Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.&nbsp;

Since the creation of Pakistan, that country has been trying to snatch Jammu and Kashmir by all means possible. It sent its armed forces personnel in the garb of tribals in 1947, repeated the act code-named Operation Gibraltar in 1965 followed by a full-fledged war. However, with 1971’s decisive defeat and dismemberment, it changed its policy towards India. Pakistan devised a two-pronged strategy to implement its agenda of breaking India.&nbsp;

Its infamous spy agency ISI started training and arming terrorist outfits to foment trouble in Punjab and Jammu &amp; Kashmir in particular and other states in general.&nbsp;

Simultaneously, it created a nuclear bogey to threaten India. Any talk of a befitting response to Pakistani terrorist activities was met with the Generals and their puppet civilian rulers saying that the nuclear arsenal has not been kept for use in Shab-e-Baraat!&nbsp;

Unfortunately, India’s erstwhile political leadership could not adequately counter Pakistan’s hollow threats. Today, Pakistan masterminding terrorist strikes on Indian soil, using threats of using nuclear blackmail, has changed forever.&nbsp;

When the IAF crossed the LoC and bombed Balakot’s terrorist hub, the message had been delivered loud and clear: the days when the blood of Indian patriots were spilled every now and then, was over; henceforth the response will be befitting.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi, in unambiguous terms, told Pakistan that India’s nuclear weapons have not been kept to be used as crackers on Diwali! In all practical terms, the Rubicon had been crossed.&nbsp;

Pakistan is not likely to roll back its terrorist grooming programme. From the Pakistani perspective, covert warfare is the best tool to deal with India.

On a cost-benefit analysis, creating and maintaining jihadis and ultras come at almost no cost. It just needs to provide political support and rest everything is taken care of by the groups themselves.

Ideological training is provided in the religious seminaries or tanzeems, which are funded by raising donations from the public. Billions of Pakistani rupees are raised by these tanzeems and the funds are channelised for training camps and to buy arms.

Finding fidayeen volunteers in Jammu &amp; Kashmir is going to be increasingly difficult for Pakistan’s ISI because of the Modi government’s no-nonsense Kashmir policy.

Saraiki-speaking southern areas of Pakistani Punjab, namely Multan and Jhang are flush with seminaries, which are imparting religious training to indoctrinate the youth. &nbsp;

These areas, historically, have been ideal hunting ground for jihadi tanzeems. Unless there is a conscientious check on them, thoughts of reining in terrorist outfits, are a pipedream.&nbsp;

Steps taken by the Pakistani government to show that it is winding up its terrorist infrastructure are cosmetic. The country is in dire economic straits and needs IMF funds. Naturally, it has to portray its clean image to the world.&nbsp;

Given Pakistan’s strategic over-reliance on jihadi terrorism, India should continue with its policy of no-talks until tangible results of winding up of terror infrastructure are visible.&nbsp;

Indian diplomats have left no stone unturned, in the past few years, to internationally isolate Pakistan on the terror front. Today, any talks, however small, will negate diplomatic benefits.

Pakistan has always tried to discuss only Kashmir, whenever bilateral talks have taken place between the two countries in the past. When Jammu &amp; Kashmir is an integral part of this country, what is there to discuss?

If Kashmir is ever discussed in the future - only after Pakistan’s sincerity towards winding up its terrorist agenda is visible - India should only discuss the issue of getting back its territories under Pakistan’s illegal occupation, which have been handed over to China, like Gilgit, Hunza and Baltistan, through which runs the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. 
 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-don-t-talk-to-pakistan-until-it-dismantles-terror-facilities-2772031">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Pakistan’s desperation to engage India in talks is palpable. It is not just geo-strategic compulsions prompting its leadership to restart diplomatic parleys, but that country’s collapsing economy that has triggered this response.

Pakistan’s desperation to engage India in talks is palpable. It is not just geo-strategic compulsions prompting its leadership to restart diplomatic parleys, but that country’s collapsing economy that has triggered this response. In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on the sidelines of the SCO summit, Pakistan had tried to use Chinese President Xi Jinping to persuade India for holding bilateral talks but Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not budge from the official Indian position of not holding talks until Pakistan dismantles its terrorist infrastructure. Already, tottering under unprecedented economic crisis, Pakistan cannot afford international sanctions against it. FATF has kept it on its watch list and any terrorist action will weaken its case. The IAF strike on the Balakot terrorist training camp represents a paradigm shift in the Indian policy of dealing with Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Since the creation of Pakistan, that country has been trying to snatch Jammu and Kashmir by all means possible. It sent its armed forces personnel in the garb of tribals in 1947, repeated the act code-named Operation Gibraltar in 1965 followed by a full-fledged war. However, with 1971’s decisive defeat and dismemberment, it changed its policy towards India. Pakistan devised a two-pronged strategy to implement its agenda of breaking India. Its infamous spy agency ISI started training and arming terrorist outfits to foment trouble in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir in particular and other states in general. Simultaneously, it created a nuclear bogey to threaten India. Any talk of a befitting response to Pakistani terrorist activities was met with the Generals and their puppet civilian rulers saying that the nuclear arsenal has not been kept for use in Shab-e-Baraat! Unfortunately, India’s erstwhile political leadership could not adequately counter Pakistan’s hollow threats. Today, Pakistan masterminding terrorist strikes on Indian soil, using threats of using nuclear blackmail, has changed forever. When the IAF crossed the LoC and bombed Balakot’s terrorist hub, the message had been delivered loud and clear: the days when the blood of Indian patriots were spilled every now and then, was over; henceforth the response will be befitting. PM Narendra Modi, in unambiguous terms, told Pakistan that India’s nuclear weapons have not been kept to be used as crackers on Diwali! In all practical terms, the Rubicon had been crossed. Pakistan is not likely to roll back its terrorist grooming programme. From the Pakistani perspective, covert warfare is the best tool to deal with India. On a cost-benefit analysis, creating and maintaining jihadis and ultras come at almost no cost. It just needs to provide political support and rest everything is taken care of by the groups themselves. Ideological training is provided in the religious seminaries or tanzeems, which are funded by raising donations from the public. Billions of Pakistani rupees are raised by these tanzeems and the funds are channelised for training camps and to buy arms. Finding fidayeen volunteers in Jammu & Kashmir is going to be increasingly difficult for Pakistan’s ISI because of the Modi government’s no-nonsense Kashmir policy. Saraiki-speaking southern areas of Pakistani Punjab, namely Multan and Jhang are flush with seminaries, which are imparting religious training to indoctrinate the youth. These areas, historically, have been ideal hunting ground for jihadi tanzeems. Unless there is a conscientious check on them, thoughts of reining in terrorist outfits, are a pipedream. Steps taken by the Pakistani government to show that it is winding up its terrorist infrastructure are cosmetic. The country is in dire economic straits and needs IMF funds. Naturally, it has to portray its clean image to the world. Given Pakistan’s strategic over-reliance on jihadi terrorism, India should continue with its policy of no-talks until tangible results of winding up of terror infrastructure are visible. Indian diplomats have left no stone unturned, in the past few years, to internationally isolate Pakistan on the terror front. Today, any talks, however small, will negate diplomatic benefits. Pakistan has always tried to discuss only Kashmir, whenever bilateral talks have taken place between the two countries in the past. When Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of this country, what is there to discuss? If Kashmir is ever discussed in the future - only after Pakistan’s sincerity towards winding up its terrorist agenda is visible - India should only discuss the issue of getting back its territories under Pakistan’s illegal occupation, which have been handed over to China, like Gilgit, Hunza and Baltistan, through which runs the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Don’t talk to Pakistan until it dismantles terror facilities

Officials from India and Pakistan on Sunday began the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-to-hold-meeting-on-kartarpur-corridor-today-235628">second round of talks</a> over finalising the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor, on the Pakistani side of the border.

The Pakistani delegation, led by Dr Mohammad Faisal-- spokesperson for Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will show a powerpoint presentation to the Indian side.

"It is the second round <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-to-hold-meeting-on-kartarpur-corridor-today-235628">Kartarpur corridor talks</a> as promised by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Pakistan is fully committed and cooperating to operationalise the Kartarpur Corridor.

Work from our side is underway in an expeditious manner. More than 70 per cent of the Gurudwara construction work has been completed. We hope to have a productive discussion with the Indian counterparts," Faisal told reporters ahead of the talks.

The Indian delegation is led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary (PAI--Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran) in the Ministry of External Affairs.

Other officials include Rajeev Singh Thakur, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Defence; Parag Jain, Joint Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat; Avi Prakash, Joint Director, IB; Hussan Lal, Secretary of the Public Works Department (PWD), Punjab; and Maneesh Rastogi, Chief General Manager of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

New Delhi is looking forward to the upcoming talks with Islamabad and will take up a number of key issues, including infrastructure, pilgrims` movement, and safety, government sources had said on Friday.

One of the main points expected to be raised in the discussion would be India`s demand for the construction of a bridge by Pakistan in the creek area. India has raised concerns regarding the possible flooding of Dera Baba Nanak due to the construction of an embankment-filled road on the Pakistani side.

While India has already been building a bridge on its side to provide all-weather connectivity for the Kartarpur corridor, it has urged Pakistan to build a similar bridge on their side as it would provide safe and secure movement of the pilgrims while also addressing concerns over flooding.

The other key issues on the table would be the number of pilgrims allowed to access the corridor, safe and unhindered movement of pilgrims throughout the year, whether they would travel as individuals or groups, and whether they would travel by transport or foot.

Additionally, India will spend Rs 500 crore to build the corridor.

The money would be spent, among other things, on installing a high tech security and surveillance system to ensure the safety of pilgrims and creating an all-weather facility to cater to 10,000 pilgrims on special occasions and 5000 pilgrims on a daily basis.

The Kartarpur route along the India-Pakistan border is three kilometres away from Gurdaspur in Punjab. Once opened, it would allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539.

"We are hopeful that the work on these two projects will be completed in time - one by September 2019 and the other by October 2019. So reports, which say that that we are slow in terms of finishing our projects, are not the correct depiction," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson had said last week.

Officials from India and Pakistan on Sunday began the second round of talks over finalising the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor, on the Pakistani side of the border.

Officials from India and Pakistan on Sunday began the second round of talks over finalising the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor, on the Pakistani side of the border. The Pakistani delegation, led by Dr Mohammad Faisal-- spokesperson for Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will show a powerpoint presentation to the Indian side. "It is the second round Kartarpur corridor talks as promised by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Pakistan is fully committed and cooperating to operationalise the Kartarpur Corridor. Work from our side is underway in an expeditious manner. More than 70 per cent of the Gurudwara construction work has been completed. We hope to have a productive discussion with the Indian counterparts," Faisal told reporters ahead of the talks. The Indian delegation is led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary (PAI--Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran) in the Ministry of External Affairs. Other officials include Rajeev Singh Thakur, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Defence; Parag Jain, Joint Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat; Avi Prakash, Joint Director, IB; Hussan Lal, Secretary of the Public Works Department (PWD), Punjab; and Maneesh Rastogi, Chief General Manager of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). New Delhi is looking forward to the upcoming talks with Islamabad and will take up a number of key issues, including infrastructure, pilgrims` movement, and safety, government sources had said on Friday. One of the main points expected to be raised in the discussion would be India`s demand for the construction of a bridge by Pakistan in the creek area. India has raised concerns regarding the possible flooding of Dera Baba Nanak due to the construction of an embankment-filled road on the Pakistani side. While India has already been building a bridge on its side to provide all-weather connectivity for the Kartarpur corridor, it has urged Pakistan to build a similar bridge on their side as it would provide safe and secure movement of the pilgrims while also addressing concerns over flooding. The other key issues on the table would be the number of pilgrims allowed to access the corridor, safe and unhindered movement of pilgrims throughout the year, whether they would travel as individuals or groups, and whether they would travel by transport or foot. Additionally, India will spend Rs 500 crore to build the corridor. The money would be spent, among other things, on installing a high tech security and surveillance system to ensure the safety of pilgrims and creating an all-weather facility to cater to 10,000 pilgrims on special occasions and 5000 pilgrims on a daily basis. The Kartarpur route along the India-Pakistan border is three kilometres away from Gurdaspur in Punjab. Once opened, it would allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539. "We are hopeful that the work on these two projects will be completed in time - one by September 2019 and the other by October 2019. So reports, which say that that we are slow in terms of finishing our projects, are not the correct depiction," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson had said last week.

Second round of Kartarpur corridor talks underway between India and Pakistan

Officials from India and Pakistan are slated to meet on Sunday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-complete-kartarpur-corridor-construction-by-october-31-235299">finalise the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor</a> and related technical issues.

Government sources said the meeting is scheduled to take place at 9:30 am at Wagah.

Just a day ahead of the meeting, Pakistan reconstituted its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kartarpur-talks-pakistan-removes-khalistani-radical-gopal-singh-chawala-from-top-pakistan-sikh-body-under-pressure-from-india-235410">Sikh Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee</a> (PSGPC) list, and dropped Khalistani leader Gopal Singh Chawla from the list, allaying concerns that India had raised earlier.

Previously, the two countries were slated to meet on April 2 in Pakistan for the second round of talks, which was postponed after reports surfaced about the appointment of "controversial elements" by Pakistan in a committee associated with the corridor.

New Delhi is looking forward to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-talks-india-to-focus-on-facilities-for-pilgrims-234441">upcoming talks with Islamabad</a> and will take up a number of key issues, including infrastructure, pilgrims'&nbsp;movement and safety, government sources had said on Friday.

The Kartarpur route along the India-Pakistan border is three kilometres away from Gurdaspur in Punjab. Once opened, it would allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539.

Sources said that the work on the corridor is expected to be completed by October 31, which is much before the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

One of the main points expected to be raised in the discussion would be India`s demand for the construction of a bridge by Pakistan in the creek area.

India has raised concerns regarding the possible flooding of Dera Baba Nanak due to the construction of an embankment-filled road on the Pakistani side.

While India has already been building a bridge on its side to provide all-weather connectivity for the Kartarpur corridor, it has urged Pakistan to build a similar bridge on their side as it would provide safe and secure movement of the pilgrims while also addressing concerns over flooding.

The other key issues on the table would be the number of pilgrims allowed to access the corridor, safe and unhindered movement of pilgrims throughout the year, whether they would travel as individuals or groups, and whether they would travel by transport or foot.

Additionally, India will spend Rs 500 crore to build the corridor.

The money would be spent, among other things, on installing a high tech security and surveillance system to ensure the safety of pilgrims and creating an all-weather facility to cater to 10,000 pilgrims on special occasions and 5000 pilgrims on a daily basis.

The first round was held on March 14 on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border, during which issues like finalisation of the draft agreement between the two countries were discussed.

The second round of talks on the corridor was announced after the re-election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Officials from India and Pakistan are slated to meet on Sunday to finalise the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor and related technical issues. Government sources said the meeting is scheduled to take place at 9:30 am at Wagah.

Officials from India and Pakistan are slated to meet on Sunday to finalise the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor and related technical issues. Government sources said the meeting is scheduled to take place at 9:30 am at Wagah. Just a day ahead of the meeting, Pakistan reconstituted its Sikh Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) list, and dropped Khalistani leader Gopal Singh Chawla from the list, allaying concerns that India had raised earlier. Previously, the two countries were slated to meet on April 2 in Pakistan for the second round of talks, which was postponed after reports surfaced about the appointment of "controversial elements" by Pakistan in a committee associated with the corridor. New Delhi is looking forward to the upcoming talks with Islamabad and will take up a number of key issues, including infrastructure, pilgrims' movement and safety, government sources had said on Friday. The Kartarpur route along the India-Pakistan border is three kilometres away from Gurdaspur in Punjab. Once opened, it would allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539. Sources said that the work on the corridor is expected to be completed by October 31, which is much before the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. One of the main points expected to be raised in the discussion would be India`s demand for the construction of a bridge by Pakistan in the creek area. India has raised concerns regarding the possible flooding of Dera Baba Nanak due to the construction of an embankment-filled road on the Pakistani side. While India has already been building a bridge on its side to provide all-weather connectivity for the Kartarpur corridor, it has urged Pakistan to build a similar bridge on their side as it would provide safe and secure movement of the pilgrims while also addressing concerns over flooding. The other key issues on the table would be the number of pilgrims allowed to access the corridor, safe and unhindered movement of pilgrims throughout the year, whether they would travel as individuals or groups, and whether they would travel by transport or foot. Additionally, India will spend Rs 500 crore to build the corridor. The money would be spent, among other things, on installing a high tech security and surveillance system to ensure the safety of pilgrims and creating an all-weather facility to cater to 10,000 pilgrims on special occasions and 5000 pilgrims on a daily basis. The first round was held on March 14 on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border, during which issues like finalisation of the draft agreement between the two countries were discussed. The second round of talks on the corridor was announced after the re-election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India, Pakistan to hold meeting on Kartarpur corridor today

Pakistan troops on Friday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-poonch-234862">violated ceasefire</a> along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, news agency ANI reported.

According to the report, Pakistan initiated unprovoked firing with small arms and shelling with mortars in Mankote, Krishna Ghati Sector.

India army is&nbsp;retaliating. No casualties or injuries have been reported so far.

On July 8, Pakistan Rangers violated the ceasefire along the LoC in the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. A civilian was injured in the cross-firing.

Meanwhile, two Army personnel were injured in Pakistani firing in the district's Romali Dhara area of Nowshera sector last week.

Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the LoC in the last six months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed Rajya Sabh earlier this month.

Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.

Pakistan troops on Friday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, news agency ANI reported. According to the report, Pakistan initiated unprovoked firing with small arms and shelling with mortars in Mankote, Krishna Ghati Sector.

Pakistan troops on Friday violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, news agency ANI reported. According to the report, Pakistan initiated unprovoked firing with small arms and shelling with mortars in Mankote, Krishna Ghati Sector. India army is retaliating. No casualties or injuries have been reported so far. On July 8, Pakistan Rangers violated the ceasefire along the LoC in the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. A civilian was injured in the cross-firing. Meanwhile, two Army personnel were injured in Pakistani firing in the district's Romali Dhara area of Nowshera sector last week. Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the LoC in the last six months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed Rajya Sabh earlier this month. Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Poonch

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019.&nbsp;

Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.30pm IST <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/international-court-of-justice-to-announce-verdict-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-on-july-17-233065">on July 17 by The International court of justice</a> (ICJ).

Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "We will have to wait till July 17. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in the public domain. A team is going to represent the Government of India."

The final oral hearing on the case took place between February 18 to 21, 2019 at the ICJ when both India and Pakistan presented their arguments.

Spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we are prepared for the case comprehensively. Best lawyer was done and all institutions under the lead of Attorney General fought the case, all documents are on ICJ’s website."

Adding, "Since the matter is subjudice, therefore, we can not comment on it. However, we expect positive results since our case was well prepared."

Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges.

India has been demanding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-writes-to-pakistan-for-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-207577">consular access to Jadhav</a> since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities.&nbsp;

Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging.

On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019. Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019. Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.30pm IST on July 17 by The International court of justice (ICJ). Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "We will have to wait till July 17. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in the public domain. A team is going to represent the Government of India." The final oral hearing on the case took place between February 18 to 21, 2019 at the ICJ when both India and Pakistan presented their arguments. Spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we are prepared for the case comprehensively. Best lawyer was done and all institutions under the lead of Attorney General fought the case, all documents are on ICJ’s website." Adding, "Since the matter is subjudice, therefore, we can not comment on it. However, we expect positive results since our case was well prepared." Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges. India has been demanding consular access to Jadhav since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities. Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging. On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

India, Pakistan await verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case, MEA says 'not proper to speculate'

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector in Rajouri district, news agency ANI reported.

According to the report, the Indian Army is retaliating effectively.

No casualties or injuries have been reported so far.

More details are awaited.&nbsp;

On July 1&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navy-has-important-role-in-act-east-policy-rajnath-singh-231823">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;informed Rajya Sabha that Pakistan has violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the LoC in the last six months.

Rajnath Singh said this while replying to a question by BJP leader Vijay Pal Singh Tomar. He&nbsp;also informed that four Army jawans have been killed in these ceasefire violations (CFVs) by Pakistan.

In the month of March, 267 ceasefire violations took place. In the same month, a total of three Army jawans were killed. Another jawan was killed in the month of January.

The first three months of the year saw a spike in ceasefire violations. However, during the next three months, the number of ceasefire violations dropped.

Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector in Rajouri district, news agency ANI reported. According to the report, the Indian Army is retaliating effectively.

Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector in Rajouri district, news agency ANI reported. According to the report, the Indian Army is retaliating effectively. No casualties or injuries have been reported so far. More details are awaited. On July 1 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed Rajya Sabha that Pakistan has violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the LoC in the last six months. Rajnath Singh said this while replying to a question by BJP leader Vijay Pal Singh Tomar. He also informed that four Army jawans have been killed in these ceasefire violations (CFVs) by Pakistan. In the month of March, 267 ceasefire violations took place. In the same month, a total of three Army jawans were killed. Another jawan was killed in the month of January. The first three months of the year saw a spike in ceasefire violations. However, during the next three months, the number of ceasefire violations dropped. Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Nowshera sector; no casualties

Pakistan must recognise that any existential threat it faces is not from India but from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-condemns-murder-of-pakistani-journalist-230670">extremists within its own territory</a>, a former CIA director and retired US Army General said on Thursday.

General (Retd) David H Petraeus, who is now in the field of global investments as member and chairman of KKR Global Institute, recounted his time in the US Army and the intelligence service as one of "dashed hopes" of trying to help Pakistan with its efforts to curb extremism at the time.

"The challenge for Pakistan is that it has never truly accepted that the existential threat to the country is not India; it is actually the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-chief-hints-at-blacklisting-of-pak-for-terror-financing-230408"> internal extremists</a> that are eating away at the elements of society and civic life and doing so much damage in so many different respects," said Petraeus.&nbsp;

The former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) director was addressing a 'How should the world view India' session at the Leaders' Summit during UK-India Week in Buckinghamshire near London.

"They [extremists] are gradually propagating more extremism. The education system has degraded somewhat, parents end up sending their kids to madrassas instead of the public schools. And, this a very dangerous downward spiral, which then when you combine with the distortions in the economy defies explanation," he said in response to a question on India-Pakistan relations.

Petraeus, who served as CIA director during Barack Obama's presidency in the US in 2011-12, said he had worked "very, very hard" in several different assignments, including as CIA director, to build a relationship with two key leaders of Pakistan at the time -&nbsp;the chief of Army staff and the director of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

"We have had very high hopes as a succession of civilian leaders have taken office and hope that they could actually deal with this and yet, we have not seen that materialise sadly," he said.

"If they can't deal with that internal challenge [extremism], then there is going to be continual frustration for India," Petraeus said.

Characterising Pakistan as a "favourite frenemy", a friend who the US tried to help, he expressed "frustration" that some of the counter-insurgency work targeted at the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) around 2009 ran out of momentum and did not see that manifest itself again.

"I flew halfway around the world one time, literally to meet with some of the Pakistani leaders because it was that important a relationship to us. And yet, at the end of the day, there was a frustrating element to it because the kind of cooperation we hoped, just ultimately didn't fully materialise. And that has been the story ever since," he lamented.

Pakistan must recognise that any existential threat it faces is not from India but from the extremists within its own territory, a former CIA director and retired US Army General said on Thursday.

Pakistan must recognise that any existential threat it faces is not from India but from the extremists within its own territory, a former CIA director and retired US Army General said on Thursday. General (Retd) David H Petraeus, who is now in the field of global investments as member and chairman of KKR Global Institute, recounted his time in the US Army and the intelligence service as one of "dashed hopes" of trying to help Pakistan with its efforts to curb extremism at the time. "The challenge for Pakistan is that it has never truly accepted that the existential threat to the country is not India; it is actually the internal extremists that are eating away at the elements of society and civic life and doing so much damage in so many different respects," said Petraeus. The former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) director was addressing a 'How should the world view India' session at the Leaders' Summit during UK-India Week in Buckinghamshire near London. "They [extremists] are gradually propagating more extremism. The education system has degraded somewhat, parents end up sending their kids to madrassas instead of the public schools. And, this a very dangerous downward spiral, which then when you combine with the distortions in the economy defies explanation," he said in response to a question on India-Pakistan relations. Petraeus, who served as CIA director during Barack Obama's presidency in the US in 2011-12, said he had worked "very, very hard" in several different assignments, including as CIA director, to build a relationship with two key leaders of Pakistan at the time - the chief of Army staff and the director of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). "We have had very high hopes as a succession of civilian leaders have taken office and hope that they could actually deal with this and yet, we have not seen that materialise sadly," he said. "If they can't deal with that internal challenge [extremism], then there is going to be continual frustration for India," Petraeus said. Characterising Pakistan as a "favourite frenemy", a friend who the US tried to help, he expressed "frustration" that some of the counter-insurgency work targeted at the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) around 2009 ran out of momentum and did not see that manifest itself again. "I flew halfway around the world one time, literally to meet with some of the Pakistani leaders because it was that important a relationship to us. And yet, at the end of the day, there was a frustrating element to it because the kind of cooperation we hoped, just ultimately didn't fully materialise. And that has been the story ever since," he lamented.

Pakistan never truly accepted existential threat is not India: Ex-CIA director Petraeus

Three civilians were injured as the Pakistani army violated the ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Sunday, news agency IANS reported citing local police.

The three injured included&nbsp;two girls who were resident of&nbsp;Qasba and Bandi Chechian areas of Poonch.

According to the report, Pakistan initiated&nbsp;shelling with mortars and firing of small arms along the Line of Control (LoC) in the late evening.

Indian Army is retaliating effectively.

Further details are awaited.

 
&nbsp;

Three civilians were injured as the Pakistani army violated the ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Sunday, news agency IANS reported citing local police.

Three civilians were injured as the Pakistani army violated the ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Sunday, news agency IANS reported citing local police. The three injured included two girls who were resident of Qasba and Bandi Chechian areas of Poonch. According to the report, Pakistan initiated shelling with mortars and firing of small arms along the Line of Control (LoC) in the late evening. Indian Army is retaliating effectively. Further details are awaited.

J&K: Three civilians injured as Pakistan violates ceasefire in Poonch district

Pakistan Prime Minister and former test captain Imran Khan has sent an enthusiastic message to boost the morale of his country's team as they get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indian-team-attends-practice-session-ahead-of-crucial-pakistan-clash-227461">ready to face India</a> in the ICC World Cup 2019 in England.

These two arch-rivals meet in a group stage match at Old Trafford in Manchester, renewing one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries in a league match that will draw over a billion TV viewers.

Ahead of the clash of titans, the legend of Pakistan cricket – a former international all-rounder - issued a motivational message to the 'Men in Green' through Twitter.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a>

Imran sent messages to the Pakistani team via a series of tweets discussing how the game is mainly about being mentally tough and how skills have just 40% of the impact.

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When I started my cricketing career I assumed success was 70% talent &amp; 30% mind. By the time I finished playing cricket I felt it was 50-50 ratio. But now I tend to agree with my friend Gavaskar it's 60% mental strength &amp; 40 % talent. Today role of mind will be more than 60% 1/5
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150097071738880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today,” Imran Khan tweeted.&nbsp;

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2/5 Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today. In Sarfaraz we are fortunate to have a bold captain &amp; today he will have to be at his daring best.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150332850393088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;“In Sarfaraz Ahmed, we are fortunate to have a bold captain &amp; today he will have to be at his daring best. All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative &amp; defensive strategy &amp; crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon,” Khan added.

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3/5 All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative &amp; defensive strategy &amp; crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon. So here are my suggestions for Sarfaraz &amp; Pakistan team:
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150746924625920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He further added that Sarfaraz should bat first if he wins the toss.

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4/5 1. In order ro have a winning offensive strategy Sarfaraz must go in with specialist batsmen and bowlers because "Raillu Kattas" rarely perform under pressure - especially the intense kind that will be generated today. 2. Unless pitch is damp, Sarfaraz must win the toss &amp; bat
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1140150828277387264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Khan who led his country to World Cup glory in 1992 also advised the team to not succumb to pressure and give their best.

Pakistan Prime Minister and former test captain Imran Khan has sent an enthusiastic message to boost the morale of his country's team as they get ready to face India in the ICC World Cup 2019 in England.

Pakistan Prime Minister and former test captain Imran Khan has sent an enthusiastic message to boost the morale of his country's team as they get ready to face India in the ICC World Cup 2019 in England. These two arch-rivals meet in a group stage match at Old Trafford in Manchester, renewing one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries in a league match that will draw over a billion TV viewers. Ahead of the clash of titans, the legend of Pakistan cricket – a former international all-rounder - issued a motivational message to the 'Men in Green' through Twitter. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history Imran sent messages to the Pakistani team via a series of tweets discussing how the game is mainly about being mentally tough and how skills have just 40% of the impact. When I started my cricketing career I assumed success was 70% talent & 30% mind. By the time I finished playing cricket I felt it was 50-50 ratio. But now I tend to agree with my friend Gavaskar it's 60% mental strength & 40 % talent. Today role of mind will be more than 60% 1/5 — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today,” Imran Khan tweeted. 2/5 Today, given the intensity of the match, both teams will come under great mental pressure and the power of the mind will decide the outcome of the match today. In Sarfaraz we are fortunate to have a bold captain & today he will have to be at his daring best. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × “In Sarfaraz Ahmed, we are fortunate to have a bold captain & today he will have to be at his daring best. All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative & defensive strategy & crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon,” Khan added. 3/5 All fears of losing should be banished from the mind as the mind can only process one thought at a time. Fear of losing leads to a negative & defensive strategy & crucially mistakes by opponents are not pounced upon. So here are my suggestions for Sarfaraz & Pakistan team: — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × He further added that Sarfaraz should bat first if he wins the toss. 4/5 1. In order ro have a winning offensive strategy Sarfaraz must go in with specialist batsmen and bowlers because "Raillu Kattas" rarely perform under pressure - especially the intense kind that will be generated today. 2. Unless pitch is damp, Sarfaraz must win the toss & bat — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 16, 2019 × Khan who led his country to World Cup glory in 1992 also advised the team to not succumb to pressure and give their best.

Win toss and bat first: Pakistan PM Imran Khan's advice to Sarfaraz

Captain&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;has sought to play down the hype surrounding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-indian-team-attends-practice-session-ahead-of-crucial-pakistan-clash-227461">India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan</a>, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime".

The two Asian giants lock horns in Manchester on Sunday with more than a billion people expected to tune in for the most-anticipated match of the tournament.

Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far.

Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-miandads-on-field-antics-to-tendulkars-brilliance-throwback-to-india-and-pakistans-world-cup-history-227335">Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history</a>

Kohli&nbsp;said his team would focus on their strengths rather than worrying about the weaknesses of any opposition.

"We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other,"&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said at Old Trafford on Saturday.

"It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said.

Matches between the two countries, who currently only face each other in multi-nation tournaments, are always about more than just what happens on the pitch.&nbsp;

In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-pakistan-clash-227188">Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash</a>&nbsp;

"I think the best way to approach something like this, if one focuses too much on what's going on the outside, it's to understand that the game starts tomorrow at a certain time and it finishes at a certain time," said&nbsp;Kohli.

"So it's not going to last a lifetime for you, whether you do well or you don't," the captained reasoned with a blank expression.

He added, "From the fans' point of view, looking at the atmosphere and frenzy around the game, I wouldn't say it's easy to think like a player. For the players, it's very, very crucial to be absolutely professional."

The two teams have played each other in 131 one-day international games. Pakistan have a clear edge with 73 wins, despite their poor record against India at World Cups.

With the threat of rain looming over the match,&nbsp;Kohli&nbsp;said flexibility would be crucial both for the team's plans and the make-up of the side.

"We can't be rigid in our approach because, if the conditions are very different from what we played in the last game, then we'll have to think of different combinations, " he said.

"If the length of the game is going to be full and we expect the game to be 50 overs both sides, then we'll probably think of another combination, but we'll have to be flexible." 
&nbsp;

Captain Virat Kohli has sought to play down the hype surrounding India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime".

Captain Virat Kohli has sought to play down the hype surrounding India's World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, saying the impact of the result will "not last a lifetime". The two Asian giants lock horns in Manchester on Sunday with more than a billion people expected to tune in for the most-anticipated match of the tournament. Two-times champions India, who have won all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups, go into the contest in good shape, with two victories and a no-result so far. Pakistan, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are struggling in the 10-team table with just one win -- an upset against England -- two defeats and a washout. In pics: Throwback to India and Pakistan's World Cup history Kohli said his team would focus on their strengths rather than worrying about the weaknesses of any opposition. "We're not focusing on the opposition, so for us no one's a threat. For us, no one player matters more than the other," Kohli said at Old Trafford on Saturday. "It's about going into the park as the Indian cricket team and taking on whichever team is in front of us. If we play well, we can beat any side in the world," he said. Matches between the two countries, who currently only face each other in multi-nation tournaments, are always about more than just what happens on the pitch. In pics: Key players to watch out for in India vs Pakistan clash "I think the best way to approach something like this, if one focuses too much on what's going on the outside, it's to understand that the game starts tomorrow at a certain time and it finishes at a certain time," said Kohli. "So it's not going to last a lifetime for you, whether you do well or you don't," the captained reasoned with a blank expression. He added, "From the fans' point of view, looking at the atmosphere and frenzy around the game, I wouldn't say it's easy to think like a player. For the players, it's very, very crucial to be absolutely professional." The two teams have played each other in 131 one-day international games. Pakistan have a clear edge with 73 wins, despite their poor record against India at World Cups. With the threat of rain looming over the match, Kohli said flexibility would be crucial both for the team's plans and the make-up of the side. "We can't be rigid in our approach because, if the conditions are very different from what we played in the last game, then we'll have to think of different combinations, " he said. "If the length of the game is going to be full and we expect the game to be 50 overs both sides, then we'll probably think of another combination, but we'll have to be flexible."

India-Pakistan World Cup result will not be career-defining, says Virat Kohli

Pakistan's relationship with India is probably at its "lowest point", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said even as he expressed hope that his Indian counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-pleasantries-exchanged-between-pm-modi-and-imran-khan-on-day-1-of-sco-summit-226949">Narendra Modi will use</a> his "big mandate" to resolve all differences, including the Kashmir issue.

Khan and Modi are in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek for the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

In an interview to Russian news agency Sputnik before heading to Bishkek, Khan said the SCO summit provided him an opportunity to speak to the Indian leadership to improve ties between the two neighbours.

Khan said the SCO summit provided Pakistan a "fresh outlet" to develop its relationship with other countries, including India.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-sco-summit-what-is-on-indias-agenda-226950/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

"At the moment, our bilateral relationship with India is, probably, at its lowest point," he said.

Khan said Pakistan was open for "any kind of mediation" and seeks peace with all its neighbours, especially with India, asserting that the three "small wars" have damaged both the countries that now grapple with the "greatest amount of poverty".

The ministry of external affairs last week had said that no bilateral meetings had been planned between PM Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Khan on the sidelines of the SCO Summit.

Khan has twice written to Prime Minister Modi, seeking resumption of dialogue on all issues, including on Kashmir.

PM Modi on Thursday raised the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan during his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said India expects "concrete action" by Islamabad to create an atmosphere free of terror for the resumption of dialogue.

Khan said the emphasis should be on peace and resolving differences through dialogue.

"Our main difference with India is Kashmir. And if the heads of two countries resolve, if two governments decide, this issue can be resolved. But, unfortunately, we have not had much success from India so far," he said.

"But we hope now that the current prime minister has one big mandate, we hope that he will use this mandate to develop better relationship and bring peace in the subcontinent," Khan said.

He said he believed that the money should be spent on getting people out of poverty, citing China's example which has lifted millions of people out of poverty.

"We hope that our tension with India decreases, so we do not have to buy arms because we want to spend money on human development. But, yes, we are looking for arms from Russia, and I know our military is already in touch with the Russian military," Khan said.

Pakistan has been holding joint military drills with Russia in the last couple of years besides going for defence purchases from it, triggering some concerns in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Pakistan's relationship with India is probably at its "lowest point", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said even as he expressed hope that his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi will use his "big mandate" to resolve all differences, including the Kashmir issue.

Pakistan's relationship with India is probably at its "lowest point", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said even as he expressed hope that his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi will use his "big mandate" to resolve all differences, including the Kashmir issue. Khan and Modi are in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek for the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. In an interview to Russian news agency Sputnik before heading to Bishkek, Khan said the SCO summit provided him an opportunity to speak to the Indian leadership to improve ties between the two neighbours. Khan said the SCO summit provided Pakistan a "fresh outlet" to develop its relationship with other countries, including India. "At the moment, our bilateral relationship with India is, probably, at its lowest point," he said. Khan said Pakistan was open for "any kind of mediation" and seeks peace with all its neighbours, especially with India, asserting that the three "small wars" have damaged both the countries that now grapple with the "greatest amount of poverty". The ministry of external affairs last week had said that no bilateral meetings had been planned between PM Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Khan on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. Khan has twice written to Prime Minister Modi, seeking resumption of dialogue on all issues, including on Kashmir. PM Modi on Thursday raised the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan during his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said India expects "concrete action" by Islamabad to create an atmosphere free of terror for the resumption of dialogue. Khan said the emphasis should be on peace and resolving differences through dialogue. "Our main difference with India is Kashmir. And if the heads of two countries resolve, if two governments decide, this issue can be resolved. But, unfortunately, we have not had much success from India so far," he said. "But we hope now that the current prime minister has one big mandate, we hope that he will use this mandate to develop better relationship and bring peace in the subcontinent," Khan said. He said he believed that the money should be spent on getting people out of poverty, citing China's example which has lifted millions of people out of poverty. "We hope that our tension with India decreases, so we do not have to buy arms because we want to spend money on human development. But, yes, we are looking for arms from Russia, and I know our military is already in touch with the Russian military," Khan said. Pakistan has been holding joint military drills with Russia in the last couple of years besides going for defence purchases from it, triggering some concerns in New Delhi.

India-Pak relations at lowest point, hope PM Modi can use big mandate to bring peace: Imran Khan

India will be releasing five Pakistani prisoners on June 7 as a goodwill gesture.

The situation of Indian and Pakistani prisoners languishing in each other's jail has been one of the biggest humanitarian issues between the two countries.

In April, New Delhi had sent a note verbale to Islamabad asking for the release&nbsp;of prisoners who have completed their sentence; after Pakistan released 360 Indian prisoners.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first term was able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats.

In 2017, India had suggested Pakistan that the two sides could work together for the release and repatriation of elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners on humanitarian grounds and proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee.

Last six months saw New Delhi sending a number of note verbale to Islamabad asking to organise an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan but it has not received any response.

In December 2018, Pakistan released Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after six years in jail. Hamid was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was found with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook.

It was followed by the release of two Pakistani nationals by India, Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah. Imran Wari had come to India in 2004 on a valid visa but overstayed after marrying an Indian girl who he loved. He was caught after trying to make a fake passport in Bhopal and released in 2018, after 10 years in jail. Shah, an autistic person from Pakistan's Swat district, crossed over to India to meet Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan in 2017.

India will be releasing five Pakistani prisoners on June 7 as a goodwill gesture. The situation of Indian and Pakistani prisoners languishing in each other's jail has been one of the biggest humanitarian issues between the two countries.

India will be releasing five Pakistani prisoners on June 7 as a goodwill gesture. The situation of Indian and Pakistani prisoners languishing in each other's jail has been one of the biggest humanitarian issues between the two countries. In April, New Delhi had sent a note verbale to Islamabad asking for the release of prisoners who have completed their sentence; after Pakistan released 360 Indian prisoners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first term was able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats. In 2017, India had suggested Pakistan that the two sides could work together for the release and repatriation of elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners on humanitarian grounds and proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee. Last six months saw New Delhi sending a number of note verbale to Islamabad asking to organise an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan but it has not received any response. In December 2018, Pakistan released Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after six years in jail. Hamid was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was found with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook. It was followed by the release of two Pakistani nationals by India, Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah. Imran Wari had come to India in 2004 on a valid visa but overstayed after marrying an Indian girl who he loved. He was caught after trying to make a fake passport in Bhopal and released in 2018, after 10 years in jail. Shah, an autistic person from Pakistan's Swat district, crossed over to India to meet Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan in 2017.

India to release five Pakistani prisoners on June 7

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said India is mulling on the prospects of stopping the flow of river water to Pakistan in the backdrop of its "continuous support" to terrorism.

Gadkari, while deterring to stop river water to Pakistan, said India is not bound to follow the Indus water treaty as peaceful relations no longer exist between the two countries.

"Water is going to Pakistan from three rivers; we do not want to stop that. But the basis of the water treaty between India and Pakistan was peaceful relations and friendship, both of which have completely vanished. So we are not bound to follow this treaty," Gadkari told media here on Wednesday.

He went on to say that India is internally examining the matter.

"Pakistan is continuously supporting terrorists. If Pakistan does not stop terrorism, we won't have any other option but to stop river water to Pakistan. So India has started internally studying it. That water will go to Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan," said Gadkari.

A week after the Pulwama terror attack took place in which as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed, Gadkari had said Pakistan has "destroyed the spirit" of Indus Waters Treaty, and claimed that people were requesting him "not to give even a drop of India's water" to Islamabad.

The Indus Waters Treaty was signed by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and former Pakistan President Ayub Khan in 1960.

As per the Treaty, India has full rights over the waters of 'eastern'&nbsp;rivers--Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. In return, India had to let 'western'&nbsp;rivers-Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum-flow 'unrestricted'&nbsp;to Pakistan.

As per the Treaty, India can use the waters of 'western'&nbsp;rivers as well, but only in a 'non-consumptive'&nbsp;manner. It could use the water for domestic purposes, and even for irrigation and hydropower production, but only in the manner specified in the treaty.&nbsp;

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said India is mulling on the prospects of stopping the flow of river water to Pakistan in the backdrop of its "continuous support" to terrorism.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said India is mulling on the prospects of stopping the flow of river water to Pakistan in the backdrop of its "continuous support" to terrorism. Gadkari, while deterring to stop river water to Pakistan, said India is not bound to follow the Indus water treaty as peaceful relations no longer exist between the two countries. "Water is going to Pakistan from three rivers; we do not want to stop that. But the basis of the water treaty between India and Pakistan was peaceful relations and friendship, both of which have completely vanished. So we are not bound to follow this treaty," Gadkari told media here on Wednesday. He went on to say that India is internally examining the matter. "Pakistan is continuously supporting terrorists. If Pakistan does not stop terrorism, we won't have any other option but to stop river water to Pakistan. So India has started internally studying it. That water will go to Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan," said Gadkari. A week after the Pulwama terror attack took place in which as many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed, Gadkari had said Pakistan has "destroyed the spirit" of Indus Waters Treaty, and claimed that people were requesting him "not to give even a drop of India's water" to Islamabad. The Indus Waters Treaty was signed by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and former Pakistan President Ayub Khan in 1960. As per the Treaty, India has full rights over the waters of 'eastern' rivers--Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. In return, India had to let 'western' rivers-Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum-flow 'unrestricted' to Pakistan. As per the Treaty, India can use the waters of 'western' rivers as well, but only in a 'non-consumptive' manner. It could use the water for domestic purposes, and even for irrigation and hydropower production, but only in the manner specified in the treaty.

Water will flow to Rajasthan, Punjab not Pakistan if it continues to support terrorism: Nitin Gadkari

A Pakistani national was arrested by the Border Security Force (BSF) near Samba sector on Wednesday, officials said.

The person has been identified as Mohammad Afzal, a resident of Narowal in Nihar district of Pakistan.

"The alleged intruder was apprehended by the patrol party near Samba sector. He has been identified as Mohammad Afzal son of Liyakat Ali and a resident of Narowal in Nihar district of Pakistan," BSF said.

It is yet to be revealed if anything suspicious was recovered from him.

A Pakistani national was arrested by the Border Security Force (BSF) near Samba sector on Wednesday, officials said. The person has been identified as Mohammad Afzal, a resident of Narowal in Nihar district of Pakistan.

A Pakistani national was arrested by the Border Security Force (BSF) near Samba sector on Wednesday, officials said. The person has been identified as Mohammad Afzal, a resident of Narowal in Nihar district of Pakistan. "The alleged intruder was apprehended by the patrol party near Samba sector. He has been identified as Mohammad Afzal son of Liyakat Ali and a resident of Narowal in Nihar district of Pakistan," BSF said. It is yet to be revealed if anything suspicious was recovered from him.

J&K: BSF apprehends Pakistani national near Samba sector

Pakistan continues to sponsor terror outfits that launched deadly attacks in India because Islamabad has "paid no price for its perfidy", a prominent think-tank expert has told American lawmakers.

Pakistan continues to sponsor terrorist groups that launched deadly attacks in India. It has paid no price for its perfidy," Bill Roggio, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing early this week.

"We must continue to combat state sponsors of terror and make hard decisions about countries such as Pakistan,"&nbsp;he added.&nbsp;

Referring to Pakistan's "unwavering support" to Taliban, much to the detriment of the US in Afghanistan, Roggio also disapproved the US move to withdraw troops from there.&nbsp;

"Its support for the Taliban has been unwavering and is leading us to defeat in Afghanistan. I would argue that we have already lost Afghanistan. We are merely attempting to negotiate the terms of our exit,"&nbsp;he told the members of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Middle East, North Africa and International Terrorism.

The United States disengaging itself from the battlefronts would lead to an easy victory of its enemies, he cautioned.

"As our enemies have expanded their base of operations and remain committed to the fight, our will has faltered,"&nbsp;he said.

"This is a long war and commitment is key. If we hope to end this threat, we must renew our commitment and to present a united front,"&nbsp;he asserted. 
In his deposition to the panel, Roggio called for "hard decisions" by the US.

"We must rethink our goals and strategy and recognise our enemies' goals and strategy. We have to figure out a way to effectively fight our enemies both in the military sphere and the sphere of ideas," he said.

"We must continue to combat state sponsors of terror and make hard decisions about countries such as Pakistan,"&nbsp;he added. 
Roggio also accused Iran of trying to establish an Islamic state.

Iran, which alongside Pakistan, is amongst the biggest state sponsors of terrorism, also seeks to establish an Islamic state, he said.&nbsp;

"It backs loyal militias in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. These militias are organised and trained along the same lines as has been law. The long-term impact of these militias is still not fully understood," said the anti-terror strategy and security expert.

While Iran primarily backs Shia groups, it has openly battled the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria and is not opposed to forming alliances with Sunni jihadists, said Roggio.

"This secret deal was documented by the US Treasury Department in 2011 and several times since. Pakistan also continues to harbour numerous terrorist groups and uses them as a tool of its foreign policy,"&nbsp;Roggio said.

Pakistan continues to sponsor terror outfits that launched deadly attacks in India because Islamabad has "paid no price for its perfidy", a prominent think-tank expert has told American lawmakers.

Pakistan continues to sponsor terror outfits that launched deadly attacks in India because Islamabad has "paid no price for its perfidy", a prominent think-tank expert has told American lawmakers. Pakistan continues to sponsor terrorist groups that launched deadly attacks in India. It has paid no price for its perfidy," Bill Roggio, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing early this week. "We must continue to combat state sponsors of terror and make hard decisions about countries such as Pakistan," he added. Referring to Pakistan's "unwavering support" to Taliban, much to the detriment of the US in Afghanistan, Roggio also disapproved the US move to withdraw troops from there. "Its support for the Taliban has been unwavering and is leading us to defeat in Afghanistan. I would argue that we have already lost Afghanistan. We are merely attempting to negotiate the terms of our exit," he told the members of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Middle East, North Africa and International Terrorism. The United States disengaging itself from the battlefronts would lead to an easy victory of its enemies, he cautioned. "As our enemies have expanded their base of operations and remain committed to the fight, our will has faltered," he said. "This is a long war and commitment is key. If we hope to end this threat, we must renew our commitment and to present a united front," he asserted. In his deposition to the panel, Roggio called for "hard decisions" by the US. "We must rethink our goals and strategy and recognise our enemies' goals and strategy. We have to figure out a way to effectively fight our enemies both in the military sphere and the sphere of ideas," he said. "We must continue to combat state sponsors of terror and make hard decisions about countries such as Pakistan," he added. Roggio also accused Iran of trying to establish an Islamic state. Iran, which alongside Pakistan, is amongst the biggest state sponsors of terrorism, also seeks to establish an Islamic state, he said. "It backs loyal militias in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. These militias are organised and trained along the same lines as has been law. The long-term impact of these militias is still not fully understood," said the anti-terror strategy and security expert. While Iran primarily backs Shia groups, it has openly battled the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria and is not opposed to forming alliances with Sunni jihadists, said Roggio. "This secret deal was documented by the US Treasury Department in 2011 and several times since. Pakistan also continues to harbour numerous terrorist groups and uses them as a tool of its foreign policy," Roggio said.

Pakistan backs anti-India terror groups, has paid no price for its perfidy: US think-tank

A brief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-troops-open-fire-along-loc-in-jk-indian-security-forces-retaliate-215261">exchange of fire</a> took place between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday.

As per officials, the firing was reported in Adkhara area of Imam Sahib. The area has now been cordoned off.

A joint team of 34 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and Special Operations Group (SOG) Shopian launched an operation in Imam Sahib after having inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area.

Further details are awaited.&nbsp;

On Thursday, around 9:30 am (IST), the Pakistan army initiated unprovoked firing along the Line of Control (LoC)&nbsp;which was immediately retaliated by the Indian army.

No injuries or any casualty was reported from the incident.

A brief exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. As per officials, the firing was reported in Adkhara area of Imam Sahib.

A brief exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. As per officials, the firing was reported in Adkhara area of Imam Sahib. The area has now been cordoned off. A joint team of 34 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and Special Operations Group (SOG) Shopian launched an operation in Imam Sahib after having inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. Further details are awaited. On Thursday, around 9:30 am (IST), the Pakistan army initiated unprovoked firing along the Line of Control (LoC) which was immediately retaliated by the Indian army. No injuries or any casualty was reported from the incident.

J&K: Terrorists, security personnel engage in brief exchange of fire in Shopian

Finance Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/long-awaited-action-victory-for-us-diplomacy-mike-pompeo-on-unsc-listing-azhar-as-terrorist-215231">Arun Jaitley </a>said on Thursday the government will request that Pakistan be downgraded by the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body created to counter terrorism financing and money laundering.

"There is a meeting of FATF in mid-May," Arun Jaitley told reporters. "We would want that the FATF for Pakistan should be downgraded."

The development comes a day after the UN sanctions committee on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda on Wednesday announced the designation of Masood Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaeda.

The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan.

It took ten years for the listing of Masood Azhar. India had proposed the listing in 2009, but China had continued to block the listing citing lack of consensus. In March of 2019, when China had put a hold at the listing of Masood Azhar, 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backed his listing.&nbsp;

The development has been welcomed by the US, UK. A British high commission spokesperson said it is "positive development for the security and stability of the South Asia region."&nbsp;

France was the first country to react on the listing of Masood Azhar on Wednesday calling it "successful realisation" of its efforts.

Azhar was released from prison in exchange for 155 hostages held on an Indian Airlines flight that had been hijacked to Kandahar in 1999. Since then, he is responsible for many terror attacks in India including the 2001 Parliament attack and 2019 Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Thursday the government will request that Pakistan be downgraded by the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body created to counter terrorism financing and money laundering.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Thursday the government will request that Pakistan be downgraded by the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body created to counter terrorism financing and money laundering. "There is a meeting of FATF in mid-May," Arun Jaitley told reporters. "We would want that the FATF for Pakistan should be downgraded." The development comes a day after the UN sanctions committee on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda on Wednesday announced the designation of Masood Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaeda. The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan. It took ten years for the listing of Masood Azhar. India had proposed the listing in 2009, but China had continued to block the listing citing lack of consensus. In March of 2019, when China had put a hold at the listing of Masood Azhar, 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backed his listing. The development has been welcomed by the US, UK. A British high commission spokesperson said it is "positive development for the security and stability of the South Asia region." France was the first country to react on the listing of Masood Azhar on Wednesday calling it "successful realisation" of its efforts. Azhar was released from prison in exchange for 155 hostages held on an Indian Airlines flight that had been hijacked to Kandahar in 1999. Since then, he is responsible for many terror attacks in India including the 2001 Parliament attack and 2019 Pulwama attack. (With inputs from agencies)

India to seek downgrading of Pakistan on terrorism financing list

Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security,&nbsp;Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood has said.

In an interview to PTI, Mahmood, who has been appointed Pakistan's next Foreign Secretary, also said there was a need for an "objective" narrative about Pakistan in India which could facilitate peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly ties.

"We hope for re-engagement after the elections in India. Diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable," he said.

The comments came nearly six weeks after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/journalists-balakot-visit-crude-attempt-by-pak-to-influence-indian-polls-says-ex-us-armyman-209765"> India's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot </a>and Pakistan's subsequent counter-offensive. The flare-up triggered fears of war and countries like the US and China played a role in de-escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Mahmood said diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable to improve ties between the two neighbours and that engagement was the only option to understand mutual concerns and ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region.

"Sustained engagement and structured dialogue would enable the two countries to understand mutual concerns and differences, resolve outstanding disputes and build the edifice of durable peace, security and prosperity in the region," Mahmood said.

Mahmood left for Islamabad on Sunday after nearly a 19-month long tenure as Pakistan's envoy to India. He is expected to take up his new assignment on Tuesday. 
He also said that there was a need for a review of the narrative on Pakistan in India.

"There is also a need to review the narrative about Pakistan in India. A narrative is needed that captures the reality in Pakistan objectively and more fully. A narrative that also helps recognise opportunities for peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly relations," he said.

"We must strive for a stable peace, equal security and shared prosperity for ourselves and the region," the envoy added.

In signs of easing tensions, Pakistan around two weeks back announced that it was releasing 360 Indian prisoners, mostly fishermen as a "goodwill gesture.&nbsp;

The initiative was followed by Pakistan High Commission here granting visas to 2,200 Sikh pilgrims from India to facilitate their participation in the annual Baisakhi celebrations in Pakistan.

Over two weeks after the Balakot strike, India and Pakistan held talks to finalise the modalities for setting up a corridor linking the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Gurdaspur district in Punjab.

Asked about the Kartarpur corridor project, the Pakistani High Commissioner said Islamabad was committed to completing the physical infrastructure on its side.

"The government of Pakistan is proceeding in full measures to complete the physical infrastructure on its side and it is hopeful that the modalities will be mutually agreed between the two sides in good time before November 2019," he said.

In a major initiative last November, both India and Pakistan agreed to set up the Kartarpur corridor to link the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib -- the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev -- to Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur.

Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine.

In another significant move in May last year, India and Pakistan agreed to adhere to the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control after a spate of cross-border firings between the two sides along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.

The relations between India and Pakistan remained tense since 2016. Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had travelled to Delhi to attend Modi's oath taking ceremony and the Indian premier had in December 2015 made a stopover in Lahore to greet his counterpart on his birthday.

However, the ties nose-dived following a string of cross-border terror attacks in 2016 and India's subsequent surgical strikes.

After the terror attack on Pathankot airbase in January 2016, India had announced that it will not engage in talks with Islamabad until it stops cross-border terrorism.

The sentencing of alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav to death by a military court in April 2017 further deteriorated bilateral ties.

Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security, Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood has said.

Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security, Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood has said. In an interview to PTI, Mahmood, who has been appointed Pakistan's next Foreign Secretary, also said there was a need for an "objective" narrative about Pakistan in India which could facilitate peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly ties. "We hope for re-engagement after the elections in India. Diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable," he said. The comments came nearly six weeks after India's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot and Pakistan's subsequent counter-offensive. The flare-up triggered fears of war and countries like the US and China played a role in de-escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Mahmood said diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable to improve ties between the two neighbours and that engagement was the only option to understand mutual concerns and ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region. "Sustained engagement and structured dialogue would enable the two countries to understand mutual concerns and differences, resolve outstanding disputes and build the edifice of durable peace, security and prosperity in the region," Mahmood said. Mahmood left for Islamabad on Sunday after nearly a 19-month long tenure as Pakistan's envoy to India. He is expected to take up his new assignment on Tuesday. He also said that there was a need for a review of the narrative on Pakistan in India. "There is also a need to review the narrative about Pakistan in India. A narrative is needed that captures the reality in Pakistan objectively and more fully. A narrative that also helps recognise opportunities for peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly relations," he said. "We must strive for a stable peace, equal security and shared prosperity for ourselves and the region," the envoy added. In signs of easing tensions, Pakistan around two weeks back announced that it was releasing 360 Indian prisoners, mostly fishermen as a "goodwill gesture. The initiative was followed by Pakistan High Commission here granting visas to 2,200 Sikh pilgrims from India to facilitate their participation in the annual Baisakhi celebrations in Pakistan. Over two weeks after the Balakot strike, India and Pakistan held talks to finalise the modalities for setting up a corridor linking the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Asked about the Kartarpur corridor project, the Pakistani High Commissioner said Islamabad was committed to completing the physical infrastructure on its side. "The government of Pakistan is proceeding in full measures to complete the physical infrastructure on its side and it is hopeful that the modalities will be mutually agreed between the two sides in good time before November 2019," he said. In a major initiative last November, both India and Pakistan agreed to set up the Kartarpur corridor to link the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib -- the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev -- to Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur. Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine. In another significant move in May last year, India and Pakistan agreed to adhere to the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control after a spate of cross-border firings between the two sides along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. The relations between India and Pakistan remained tense since 2016. Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had travelled to Delhi to attend Modi's oath taking ceremony and the Indian premier had in December 2015 made a stopover in Lahore to greet his counterpart on his birthday. However, the ties nose-dived following a string of cross-border terror attacks in 2016 and India's subsequent surgical strikes. After the terror attack on Pathankot airbase in January 2016, India had announced that it will not engage in talks with Islamabad until it stops cross-border terrorism. The sentencing of alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav to death by a military court in April 2017 further deteriorated bilateral ties.

Need for an objective narrative about Pakistan in India: Sohail Mahmood

Technology was on India's side in the Balakot air strikes, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa said on Monday, asserting that the results would have been further tilted in the country's favour if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-reopens-airspace-month-after-balakot-strikes-205877">Rafale jets were inducted </a>in time.

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/journalists-balakot-visit-crude-attempt-by-pak-to-influence-indian-polls-says-ex-us-armyman-209765"> Indian Air Force(IAF) chief </a>was addressing a gathering at a seminar on aerospace power of the future and the impact of technology.

"In the Balakot operation, we had technology on our side, and we could launch precision stand of weapons with great accuracy. In the subsequent engagements, we came out better because we upgraded our MiG-21s, Bisons, and Mirage-2000 aircraft," he said.

"The results would have been further skewed in our favour had we inducted the Rafale aircraft in time," Dhanoa said. 
&nbsp; 
The Air Force had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot area on February 26, in response to the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The Pakistan Air Force retaliated the next day by unsuccessfully targeting various military installations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dhanoa said in his speech, "In the proposed induction of the Rafale and S-400 surface-to-air missile system, in the next two-four years, once again the technological balance will shift in our favour, like it was in 2002 during Operation Parakaram during the last stand-off."

India inked an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore. The delivery of the jets -- capable of carrying a range of potent weapons and missiles -- is scheduled to begin from September.

In October last year, India and Russia signed a multibillion-dollar deal for S-400 'Triumf' long-range air defence missile systems. It has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km.

The seminar on 'Aerospace power in the 2040s: Impact of Technology' was held at Subroto Park here to mark the birth centenary of the late Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh.

The event was hosted by the IAF along with the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS), an autonomous defence research and analysis body.

"Among all arms of the military, technology affects us the most.. Land forces mainly fight with men, naval and air force officers operate machines and in the Air Force this technology has to be packed in smaller machines and subject to extreme temperature and pressure conditions," the IAF chief said.

And, air power is more sensitive to technological change, he said.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last week complimented the IAF for its "flawless execution" of the February 26 Balakot operation and subsequent thwarting of the Pakistani response while addressing top IAF commanders here.

At the event on April 11, Dhanoa emphasised on further enhancing the IAF's capability in the field of space, cyber, artificial intelligence and drone technology to further boost its overall combat capability.

Various IAF veterans, at the seminar paid tribute to Singh, who led the Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, died in September 2017 at the age of 98.

An icon in the country's military history, Singh led a ffledgelingIAF in the 1965 Indo-Pak war when he was just 44 years old.

Born on April 15, 1919, in Lyallpur in Punjab in undivided India, his father, grandfather and great grandfather had served in the cavalry.

"This event is a fitting tribute to IAF Marshal Arjan Singh," Dhanoa said.

Technology was on India's side in the Balakot air strikes, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa said on Monday, asserting that the results would have been further tilted in the country's favour if Rafale jets were inducted in time.

Technology was on India's side in the Balakot air strikes, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa said on Monday, asserting that the results would have been further tilted in the country's favour if Rafale jets were inducted in time. The Indian Air Force(IAF) chief was addressing a gathering at a seminar on aerospace power of the future and the impact of technology. "In the Balakot operation, we had technology on our side, and we could launch precision stand of weapons with great accuracy. In the subsequent engagements, we came out better because we upgraded our MiG-21s, Bisons, and Mirage-2000 aircraft," he said. "The results would have been further skewed in our favour had we inducted the Rafale aircraft in time," Dhanoa said. The Air Force had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot area on February 26, in response to the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The Pakistan Air Force retaliated the next day by unsuccessfully targeting various military installations in Jammu and Kashmir. Dhanoa said in his speech, "In the proposed induction of the Rafale and S-400 surface-to-air missile system, in the next two-four years, once again the technological balance will shift in our favour, like it was in 2002 during Operation Parakaram during the last stand-off." India inked an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore. The delivery of the jets -- capable of carrying a range of potent weapons and missiles -- is scheduled to begin from September. In October last year, India and Russia signed a multibillion-dollar deal for S-400 'Triumf' long-range air defence missile systems. It has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km. The seminar on 'Aerospace power in the 2040s: Impact of Technology' was held at Subroto Park here to mark the birth centenary of the late Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh. The event was hosted by the IAF along with the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS), an autonomous defence research and analysis body. "Among all arms of the military, technology affects us the most.. Land forces mainly fight with men, naval and air force officers operate machines and in the Air Force this technology has to be packed in smaller machines and subject to extreme temperature and pressure conditions," the IAF chief said. And, air power is more sensitive to technological change, he said. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last week complimented the IAF for its "flawless execution" of the February 26 Balakot operation and subsequent thwarting of the Pakistani response while addressing top IAF commanders here. At the event on April 11, Dhanoa emphasised on further enhancing the IAF's capability in the field of space, cyber, artificial intelligence and drone technology to further boost its overall combat capability. Various IAF veterans, at the seminar paid tribute to Singh, who led the Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, died in September 2017 at the age of 98. An icon in the country's military history, Singh led a ffledgelingIAF in the 1965 Indo-Pak war when he was just 44 years old. Born on April 15, 1919, in Lyallpur in Punjab in undivided India, his father, grandfather and great grandfather had served in the cavalry. "This event is a fitting tribute to IAF Marshal Arjan Singh," Dhanoa said.

Results at Balakot would have been further in our favour had we inducted Rafale: IAF chief Dhanoa

There are four power centres in Pakistan. Sitting atop the other three is the military, which controls one-third of Pakistan’s economy and almost all its terror groups. The other three centres of quasi-power are the government, the judiciary and the mullahs. The media is powerless. Civil society has no voice.&nbsp;

The Pakistani army is obsessed with India for one overriding reason: it justifies the army’s indispensability to the country and is good for business. The Pakistani army is run like a private limited company. Indian strategists working on counter-terror operations make the mistake of thinking that Pakistan’s “deep state” is responsible for Islamabad’s malignant behaviour. &nbsp;

There is no deep state in Pakistan. The army is the deep state and its tactics are open, even brazen. The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) makes no secret of its subversive role. Its public relations division (ISPR) is run by Major General Asif Ghafoor, who deals daily in Goebbelsian propaganda.&nbsp;

The Pakistani army’s Fauji Foundation owns businesses across Pakistan. In a written reply to Pakistan’s Senate in 2016, a glimpse of the army’s business holdings was revealed. As Dawn reported: “There were nearly 50 projects and units functioning in the country under the administrative control of Fauji Foundation, Shaheen Foundation, Bahria Foundation, Army Welfare Trust (AWT) and Defence Housing Authorities (DHAs).&nbsp;

According to the details provided in the reply, eight DHAs were established in major cities. These DHAs — mostly created through ordinances — are in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi-Islamabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, Peshawar and Quetta. Besides, there are 16 projects/units functioning under the AWT, 15 under the Fauji Foundation and 11 under the Shaheen Foundation.”

Projects under the Fauji Foundation include plants manufacturing everything from cement and fertiliser to energy and cereal. The Fauji Foundation itself claims on its website that it runs 18 industries. Quite apart from official holdings, the Pakistani army controls benami land and foreign bank accounts.&nbsp;

The country’s defence budget at $10 billion is 3.5 per cent of Pakistan’s GDP —nearly double India’s (1.8 per cent) as a ratio of GDP. Few countries spend more on defence as a percentage of GDP than Pakistan. China’s defence budget is 1.4 per cent of GDP. A significant portion of Pakistan’s defence budget is siphoned off by the army’s top brass. There is little oversight.&nbsp;

To keep the defence budget high and the illicit money machine ticking over, the Pakistani army needs an enemy. India fits the bill. The Pakistani army is not interested in Kashmir. It uses the state to prosecute a low-cost, low-intensity proxy conflict with India, deploying its terrorist arms to attack India and keep tensions simmering just below boiling point.&nbsp;

A key part of this strategy is to maintain a facade of seeking talks with India. For the Pakistani military, talks and terror go together. Structured &nbsp;dialogue with India gives Islamabad respectability in the eyes of the international community, diluting the impression that it is a pariah state. But the Pakistani army has no intention of allowing talks, when they do take place, to actually succeed in resolving the Kashmir issue. A resolution would end the conflict. The army’s role in Pakistan would diminish. So would the Fauji Foundation’s fortunes.&nbsp;

India’s peace lobby comprises several well-meaning activists. The Pakistani army’s civil society proxies engage in endless track two meetings with them. The purpose: build a bridge to eventually open a dialogue between India and Pakistan at the political level. Meanwhile, the Pakistani army’s terror proxies — Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen — launch periodic attacks on Indian targets to ensure that the low-intensity conflict continues.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force’s Balakot strike deep inside Pakistan changed the low-cost terror business model that the Pakistani army had perfected over years. Suddenly, the cost had risen. The loss of hundreds of terrorists and several Pakistani army officers in Balakot was just one blow.&nbsp;

An equally punishing one could be lying around the corner: blacklisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The Paris-based body monitors money laundering and terror financing globally. The Pakistani establishment engages copiously in both. If the FATF blacklists Pakistan, it could severely damage that country’s already fragile economy.&nbsp;

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Pakistan’s foreign minister, was so rattled by the possibility of blacklisting that he told journalists at a recent press conference in Lahore: “The Foreign Office is calculating the annual loss if Pakistan is pushed in the blacklist by the FATF as India is lobbying for this.”&nbsp;

Indian foreign policymakers have been ambivalent over Pakistan. Diplomatic relations remain unchanged. A private member’s bill to declare Pakistan a state sponsor of terrorism has been shelved. Cross-border trade continues as before, notwithstanding the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status. Even the ludicrous retreat ceremony at the Wagah border post between BSF jawans and Pakistani Rangers goes on unabated daily. Pakistan craves equivalence with India. Indian policymakers give it far too many opportunities to claim false equivalence.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Pakistani army keeps a beady eye on India, obsessing over every Pakistani rupee it can extract from the longest geopolitical fraud it has pulled off for decades through its proxy war of terror against &nbsp;India. The new Indian government, whichever alliance forms it, must end the charade that enriches the Pakistani army at the cost of Indian lives.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pakistan-army-private-limited-2738313">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

There are four power centres in Pakistan. Sitting atop the other three is the military, which controls one-third of Pakistan’s economy and almost all its terror groups.

There are four power centres in Pakistan. Sitting atop the other three is the military, which controls one-third of Pakistan’s economy and almost all its terror groups. The other three centres of quasi-power are the government, the judiciary and the mullahs. The media is powerless. Civil society has no voice. The Pakistani army is obsessed with India for one overriding reason: it justifies the army’s indispensability to the country and is good for business. The Pakistani army is run like a private limited company. Indian strategists working on counter-terror operations make the mistake of thinking that Pakistan’s “deep state” is responsible for Islamabad’s malignant behaviour. There is no deep state in Pakistan. The army is the deep state and its tactics are open, even brazen. The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) makes no secret of its subversive role. Its public relations division (ISPR) is run by Major General Asif Ghafoor, who deals daily in Goebbelsian propaganda. The Pakistani army’s Fauji Foundation owns businesses across Pakistan. In a written reply to Pakistan’s Senate in 2016, a glimpse of the army’s business holdings was revealed. As Dawn reported: “There were nearly 50 projects and units functioning in the country under the administrative control of Fauji Foundation, Shaheen Foundation, Bahria Foundation, Army Welfare Trust (AWT) and Defence Housing Authorities (DHAs). According to the details provided in the reply, eight DHAs were established in major cities. These DHAs — mostly created through ordinances — are in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi-Islamabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, Peshawar and Quetta. Besides, there are 16 projects/units functioning under the AWT, 15 under the Fauji Foundation and 11 under the Shaheen Foundation.” Projects under the Fauji Foundation include plants manufacturing everything from cement and fertiliser to energy and cereal. The Fauji Foundation itself claims on its website that it runs 18 industries. Quite apart from official holdings, the Pakistani army controls benami land and foreign bank accounts. The country’s defence budget at $10 billion is 3.5 per cent of Pakistan’s GDP —nearly double India’s (1.8 per cent) as a ratio of GDP. Few countries spend more on defence as a percentage of GDP than Pakistan. China’s defence budget is 1.4 per cent of GDP. A significant portion of Pakistan’s defence budget is siphoned off by the army’s top brass. There is little oversight. To keep the defence budget high and the illicit money machine ticking over, the Pakistani army needs an enemy. India fits the bill. The Pakistani army is not interested in Kashmir. It uses the state to prosecute a low-cost, low-intensity proxy conflict with India, deploying its terrorist arms to attack India and keep tensions simmering just below boiling point. A key part of this strategy is to maintain a facade of seeking talks with India. For the Pakistani military, talks and terror go together. Structured dialogue with India gives Islamabad respectability in the eyes of the international community, diluting the impression that it is a pariah state. But the Pakistani army has no intention of allowing talks, when they do take place, to actually succeed in resolving the Kashmir issue. A resolution would end the conflict. The army’s role in Pakistan would diminish. So would the Fauji Foundation’s fortunes. India’s peace lobby comprises several well-meaning activists. The Pakistani army’s civil society proxies engage in endless track two meetings with them. The purpose: build a bridge to eventually open a dialogue between India and Pakistan at the political level. Meanwhile, the Pakistani army’s terror proxies — Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen — launch periodic attacks on Indian targets to ensure that the low-intensity conflict continues. The Indian Air Force’s Balakot strike deep inside Pakistan changed the low-cost terror business model that the Pakistani army had perfected over years. Suddenly, the cost had risen. The loss of hundreds of terrorists and several Pakistani army officers in Balakot was just one blow. An equally punishing one could be lying around the corner: blacklisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The Paris-based body monitors money laundering and terror financing globally. The Pakistani establishment engages copiously in both. If the FATF blacklists Pakistan, it could severely damage that country’s already fragile economy. Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Pakistan’s foreign minister, was so rattled by the possibility of blacklisting that he told journalists at a recent press conference in Lahore: “The Foreign Office is calculating the annual loss if Pakistan is pushed in the blacklist by the FATF as India is lobbying for this.” Indian foreign policymakers have been ambivalent over Pakistan. Diplomatic relations remain unchanged. A private member’s bill to declare Pakistan a state sponsor of terrorism has been shelved. Cross-border trade continues as before, notwithstanding the withdrawal of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status. Even the ludicrous retreat ceremony at the Wagah border post between BSF jawans and Pakistani Rangers goes on unabated daily. Pakistan craves equivalence with India. Indian policymakers give it far too many opportunities to claim false equivalence. Meanwhile, the Pakistani army keeps a beady eye on India, obsessing over every Pakistani rupee it can extract from the longest geopolitical fraud it has pulled off for decades through its proxy war of terror against India. The new Indian government, whichever alliance forms it, must end the charade that enriches the Pakistani army at the cost of Indian lives. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pakistan army is obsessed with India because it justifies its indispensability

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