Senior journalist and broadcaster Reham Khan on WION's Global Summit 2020 slammed the United States over hypocrisy towards Pakistan.

Reham Khan slams US over hypocrisy towards Pakistan | WION Global Summit 2020

At WION's third edition of Global Summit in Dubai, BJP's General Secretary Ram Madhav talked on upgraded relations between US and India.

BJP's General Secretary Ram Madhav on US-India relations | WION Global Summit 2020

At WION's third edition of Global Summit in Dubai, BJP's General Secretary Ram Madhav slammed the countries commenting on India's internal issue.

Ram Madhav: Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India | WION Global Summit 2020

Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik said that India defines neighbourhood welfare as one of the prime objectives of its foreign policy. He added, 'Kashmir issue is misunderstood by a lot of people around the world. Kashmir has been with us for the last so many years. There should be no doubt in anybody's mind that Kashmir is not an integral part of India. Whether the world supports it or not it will remain an integral part of India.'

Indian Air Chief Marshal on India's neighbourhood first policy | WION Global Summit 2020

The second day of the fourth edition of 'The Huddle' 2020 began with a keynote address by Sri Lanka's former Prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.&nbsp;

During his address in the two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, the Sri Lankan leader spoke about India's role in South Asian politics and his nation's challenges.&nbsp;The event was inaugurated by President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday.

Stressing on the need of regional cooperation, Wickremesinghe said, "We had more regional cooperation and trade in South and South East Asia in ancient times, far more than BIMSTEC and SAARC have today."

"SAARC countries have 1% of world exports, ASEAN has 8%. We need more regional integration if we want a greater place in the world," Wickremesinghe also said.

The event then moved to the second session where former cricketer Anil Kumble and The Hindu Sports Editor KC Vijayakumar, held a candid conversation on " Indian sport: An Insider's perspective". 
&nbsp; 
Recalling his initial days as part of the Indian team, Kumble said, "When I first came into the team, there were a lot of doubts, reports suggesting that I could just restrict a batsman. That I needed doctored pitches.... these questions were always there. Even post-retirement, in Delhi someone asked me how it feels to have 600 wickets without spinning the ball.

"When I look back, I am satisfied with what I have been able to do."

National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Ram Madhav was also among the distinguished guests in the event.

"Kashmir is not a gambit, it's a decision taken with full thinking. It's not brought about suddenly. We have been consistently for the past 70 years that we will do away with Article 370. From 1954 successive governments have diluted it," the senior BJP leader said while referring to the abrogation of Article 370.

"Next vacation, spend it in Jammu and Kashmir. If you want to go on a pilgrimage, go to Amarnath or Vaishno Devi. If you want to go on your honeymoon, go to Gulmarg," Ram Madha said in a candid conversation with Narayan Lakshman, Associate Editor of The Hindu.

WION's Executive Editor moderated "Tomorrow's leaders: Youth as a force in politics" during which Ritesh Pandey,&nbsp;Tejaswai Surya and Sasmit Patra, members of Parliament, discussed the role of students politics in our country.

"Young leaders bring zeal and zest," Tejsawi Surya said during the discussion.

As a product of students' politics my self, "I will always support the active participation of students in politics," &nbsp;Surya also said.

The event, organised at the ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru, featured over 30 speakers, showcasing some of the best minds from the world of politics, business, academics, sports, entertainment and the arts.&nbsp;

The second day of the fourth edition of 'The Huddle' 2020 began with a keynote address by Sri Lanka's former Prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. During his address in the two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, the Sri Lankan leader spoke about India's role in South Asian politics and his nation's challenges.

The second day of the fourth edition of 'The Huddle' 2020 began with a keynote address by Sri Lanka's former Prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. During his address in the two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, the Sri Lankan leader spoke about India's role in South Asian politics and his nation's challenges. The event was inaugurated by President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday. Stressing on the need of regional cooperation, Wickremesinghe said, "We had more regional cooperation and trade in South and South East Asia in ancient times, far more than BIMSTEC and SAARC have today." "SAARC countries have 1% of world exports, ASEAN has 8%. We need more regional integration if we want a greater place in the world," Wickremesinghe also said. The event then moved to the second session where former cricketer Anil Kumble and The Hindu Sports Editor KC Vijayakumar, held a candid conversation on " Indian sport: An Insider's perspective". Recalling his initial days as part of the Indian team, Kumble said, "When I first came into the team, there were a lot of doubts, reports suggesting that I could just restrict a batsman. That I needed doctored pitches.... these questions were always there. Even post-retirement, in Delhi someone asked me how it feels to have 600 wickets without spinning the ball. "When I look back, I am satisfied with what I have been able to do." National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Ram Madhav was also among the distinguished guests in the event. "Kashmir is not a gambit, it's a decision taken with full thinking. It's not brought about suddenly. We have been consistently for the past 70 years that we will do away with Article 370. From 1954 successive governments have diluted it," the senior BJP leader said while referring to the abrogation of Article 370. "Next vacation, spend it in Jammu and Kashmir. If you want to go on a pilgrimage, go to Amarnath or Vaishno Devi. If you want to go on your honeymoon, go to Gulmarg," Ram Madha said in a candid conversation with Narayan Lakshman, Associate Editor of The Hindu. WION's Executive Editor moderated "Tomorrow's leaders: Youth as a force in politics" during which Ritesh Pandey, Tejaswai Surya and Sasmit Patra, members of Parliament, discussed the role of students politics in our country. "Young leaders bring zeal and zest," Tejsawi Surya said during the discussion. As a product of students' politics my self, "I will always support the active participation of students in politics," Surya also said. The event, organised at the ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru, featured over 30 speakers, showcasing some of the best minds from the world of politics, business, academics, sports, entertainment and the arts.

Kashmir decision was taken with full thinking, says Ram Madhav at 'The Huddle' 2020

Statements made by US President Donald Trump on India

Pakistan's Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/scrapping-article-370-was-historic-step-says-chief-naravane-during-army-day-parade-274439">Shah Mahmood Qureshi</a> described <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogation-of-article-370-irreversible-centre-tells-sc-276097">Kashmir as "nuclear flashpoint" </a>on Wednesday. While addressing a press conference in Qureshi said, I want to request the democratic government, human rights organisation and the Parliament to take this sensitive issue seriously," adding, "Kashmir has become a nuclear flashpoint."&nbsp;

"This is not a statement by Imran Khan. This has been raised in the Munich security council and there is a report on the global impact of this nuclear issue if the situation deteriorates," Qureshi also said.

In the press conference, the British lawmaker whose visa was denied by Indian a few days back was also invited to a press briefing with Pakistan's foreign minister.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/If-we-had-worked-according-to-old%20ways-then-Article-370-would-never-have-been-abrogated-says-PM-Modi-in-Lok-Sabha">Also read: If we had worked according to old ways, then Article 370 would never have been abrogated, says PM Modi in Lok Sabha</a>

British parliamentarian Debbie Abrahams received a red carpet welcome in Pakistan after India denied her for her "involvement in anti-India activities". On Tuesday, Indian High Commission in London confirmed that Abrahams was holding an invalid visa.

The chair of an all-party parliamentary panel on Kashmir in Britain, &nbsp;Abrahams will be visiting Pakistan occupied Kashmir to assess the situation there.

This is not the first time a Pakistani leader has described Kashmir as "nuclear flashpoint".

In 2019, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan while reacting to India's decision of scrap Article 370 in Kashmir, had said, "I am anti-war but what I said clearly was that when two nuclear-armed countries fight - if they fight a conventional war - there is every possibility to end up in a nuclear war." Khan was reacting to India's decision.

On being asked whether he shared the views of his foreign minister that the situation could spark an accidental war between India and Pakistan, Khan had said, "Absolutely".

In August last year, the government abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories -- Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi described Kashmir as "nuclear flashpoint" on Wednesday. While addressing a press conference in Qureshi said, I want to request the democratic government, human rights organisation and the Parliament to take this sensitive issue seriously," adding, "Kashmir has become a nuclear flashpoint.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi described Kashmir as "nuclear flashpoint" on Wednesday. While addressing a press conference in Qureshi said, I want to request the democratic government, human rights organisation and the Parliament to take this sensitive issue seriously," adding, "Kashmir has become a nuclear flashpoint." "This is not a statement by Imran Khan. This has been raised in the Munich security council and there is a report on the global impact of this nuclear issue if the situation deteriorates," Qureshi also said. In the press conference, the British lawmaker whose visa was denied by Indian a few days back was also invited to a press briefing with Pakistan's foreign minister. Also read: If we had worked according to old ways, then Article 370 would never have been abrogated, says PM Modi in Lok Sabha British parliamentarian Debbie Abrahams received a red carpet welcome in Pakistan after India denied her for her "involvement in anti-India activities". On Tuesday, Indian High Commission in London confirmed that Abrahams was holding an invalid visa. The chair of an all-party parliamentary panel on Kashmir in Britain, Abrahams will be visiting Pakistan occupied Kashmir to assess the situation there. This is not the first time a Pakistani leader has described Kashmir as "nuclear flashpoint". In 2019, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan while reacting to India's decision of scrap Article 370 in Kashmir, had said, "I am anti-war but what I said clearly was that when two nuclear-armed countries fight - if they fight a conventional war - there is every possibility to end up in a nuclear war." Khan was reacting to India's decision. On being asked whether he shared the views of his foreign minister that the situation could spark an accidental war between India and Pakistan, Khan had said, "Absolutely". In August last year, the government abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories -- Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.

Kashmir has become nuclear flashpoint: Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi

In 2018, Pakistan had 69 million people living in poverty. By June 2020, 18 million more may slip below the poverty line. Pakistan has the worst infant mortality rate in the world.

Because the country spends less than one per cent of its GDP on health. Only 58 per cent of Pakistan's population was literate as of 2018.

And if you are a regular viewer of this show, you are well aware of the state of Pakistan's economy. They are surviving on loans, the inflation rate has broken records.

When the state of affairs is so dire, what should be the government's priority? The list is quite predictable - boost earnings, fix leakages within the system, spend on education, healthcare and create more opportunities for the common man. 
 
WATCH:

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Instead, Imran Khan focuses on Kashmir. The Kashmir issue dominated all his major speeches. It's clear that Imran Khan is chasing the wrong priorities. In 2018, he rode an anti-establishment wave and army support to secure the Prime Ministership of Pakistan.

But in the past two years, Imran Khan's tenure has been dominated by Pakistan's economic crisis, violence - especially against the minorities, clashes with India and the rise of Islamists and extremists.

That brings us to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) review - that is underway in Paris as we speak. The world shouldn't take Pakistan seriously when it says it is cracking down on terror financing.

Islamabad's claim that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jaish-e-mohammeds-masood-azhar-has-gone-missing-with-his-family-pakistan-informs-fatf-280971">Masood Azhar</a> has gone missing is simply laughable. Pakistan has been also emboldened by the fact that it has support to escape scrutiny. Its all-weather ally China, alongside Turkey and Malaysia, have bailed out Imran Khan before&nbsp;there is a strong possibility that they will save Pakistan again.

That doesn't mean that Pakistan gets to escape scrutiny, it is likely to remain on FATF's Grey List, but it reflects on how helpless international institutions are when they are at the mercy of a select few.&nbsp;

Last year, we witnessed a major anti-government protest against Imran Khan. There could be another protest against Khan soon and the signs are already showing.&nbsp;

Families of students stranded in China after the coronavirus outbreak are protesting. They are angry because Imran Khan has refused to bring their kids back.

With the rising cost of living, inaction on the economic front and international pressure - people might find more reasons to hit the streets, the same citizens who elected Imran Khan might turn against him.

If the past is any proof, Pakistan is unlikely to give up its Kashmir obsession. The international community should turn its attention towards the performance of Imran Khan. Instability in Pakistan puts the entire region at risk.

India must play its role to mobilise support for an international vote of no confidence against Imran Khan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

In 2018, Pakistan had 69 million people living in poverty. By June 2020, 18 million more may slip below the poverty line. Pakistan has the worst infant mortality rate in the world.

In 2018, Pakistan had 69 million people living in poverty. By June 2020, 18 million more may slip below the poverty line. Pakistan has the worst infant mortality rate in the world. Because the country spends less than one per cent of its GDP on health. Only 58 per cent of Pakistan's population was literate as of 2018. And if you are a regular viewer of this show, you are well aware of the state of Pakistan's economy. They are surviving on loans, the inflation rate has broken records. When the state of affairs is so dire, what should be the government's priority? The list is quite predictable - boost earnings, fix leakages within the system, spend on education, healthcare and create more opportunities for the common man. WATCH: × Instead, Imran Khan focuses on Kashmir. The Kashmir issue dominated all his major speeches. It's clear that Imran Khan is chasing the wrong priorities. In 2018, he rode an anti-establishment wave and army support to secure the Prime Ministership of Pakistan. But in the past two years, Imran Khan's tenure has been dominated by Pakistan's economic crisis, violence - especially against the minorities, clashes with India and the rise of Islamists and extremists. That brings us to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) review - that is underway in Paris as we speak. The world shouldn't take Pakistan seriously when it says it is cracking down on terror financing. Islamabad's claim that Masood Azhar has gone missing is simply laughable. Pakistan has been also emboldened by the fact that it has support to escape scrutiny. Its all-weather ally China, alongside Turkey and Malaysia, have bailed out Imran Khan before there is a strong possibility that they will save Pakistan again. That doesn't mean that Pakistan gets to escape scrutiny, it is likely to remain on FATF's Grey List, but it reflects on how helpless international institutions are when they are at the mercy of a select few. Last year, we witnessed a major anti-government protest against Imran Khan. There could be another protest against Khan soon and the signs are already showing. Families of students stranded in China after the coronavirus outbreak are protesting. They are angry because Imran Khan has refused to bring their kids back. With the rising cost of living, inaction on the economic front and international pressure - people might find more reasons to hit the streets, the same citizens who elected Imran Khan might turn against him. If the past is any proof, Pakistan is unlikely to give up its Kashmir obsession. The international community should turn its attention towards the performance of Imran Khan. Instability in Pakistan puts the entire region at risk. India must play its role to mobilise support for an international vote of no confidence against Imran Khan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Why Pakistan's Imran Khan is chasing the wrong priorities

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday rejected an offer of mediation proposed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-arrives-in-pakistan-for-three-day-visit-280900">UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Kashmir</a>, saying the focus instead should be on getting vacated the territories that are "illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan".

"India's position has not changed. Jammu and Kashmir has been, is and will continue to be an integral part of India. The issue that needs to be addressed is that of vacation of the territories illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Further issues, if any, would be discussed bilaterally. There is no role or scope for third party mediation," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a media query regarding comments made by Guterres in Islamabad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-position-is-consistent-no-role-for-any-third-party-mediation-in-kashmir-matter-india-276136">Also read: Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India</a>

"We hope the UN Secretary-General would emphasise on the imperative for Pakistan to take a credible, sustained and irreversible action to put an end to cross-border terrorism against India, which threatens the most fundamental human right - the right to life, of the people of India, including in J&amp;K," he added.

The UN chief, who arrived in Pakistan on a four-day visit, addressed a press conference along with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, wherein he also expressed his "deep concern" over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and tensions along the Line of Control (LoC).

Guterres also said that it was important for India and Pakistan to de-escalate "militarily and verbally" and exercise "maximum restraint", amidst tense relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

"I have offered my good offices in relation to the dispute. He further noted that he exchanged thoughts with Qureshi on the security situation in South Asia and that mediation, as well as talks, were the only solution to regional conflicts," the Secretary-General said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after New Delhi abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 last year. India's decision evoked strong reactions from Pakistan, which downgraded its diplomatic ties with India.

However, India has defended its move, saying that the special status provisions were revoked in order to bring development in the region and reduce cross-border terrorism.

A proposal of mediation was also offered last year by US President Donald Trump in the presence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediation-only-if-both-india-pakistan-agree-trump-after-meeting-pm-imran-khan-251588">Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan</a> at a joint press conference during the latter`s visit to Washington in July.

Meanwhile, during his meeting with the president, a day after Trump held bilateral talks with Khan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is not shying away from talks with Pakistan and has urged it to take concrete steps to tackle terrorism but they have not made any efforts to combat the menace.

New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that dialogue with Pakistan will not initiate until it takes concrete action against terror emanating from its soil.

Putting forward his perspective on terrorism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had further conveyed to President Trump that 42,000 lives have been lost in terror attacks in the last 30 years and that it is imperative for the international community to join the fight against terror.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday rejected an offer of mediation proposed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Kashmir, saying the focus instead should be on getting vacated the territories that are "illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday rejected an offer of mediation proposed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Kashmir, saying the focus instead should be on getting vacated the territories that are "illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan". "India's position has not changed. Jammu and Kashmir has been, is and will continue to be an integral part of India. The issue that needs to be addressed is that of vacation of the territories illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Further issues, if any, would be discussed bilaterally. There is no role or scope for third party mediation," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a media query regarding comments made by Guterres in Islamabad. Also read: Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India "We hope the UN Secretary-General would emphasise on the imperative for Pakistan to take a credible, sustained and irreversible action to put an end to cross-border terrorism against India, which threatens the most fundamental human right - the right to life, of the people of India, including in J&K," he added. The UN chief, who arrived in Pakistan on a four-day visit, addressed a press conference along with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, wherein he also expressed his "deep concern" over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and tensions along the Line of Control (LoC). Guterres also said that it was important for India and Pakistan to de-escalate "militarily and verbally" and exercise "maximum restraint", amidst tense relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. "I have offered my good offices in relation to the dispute. He further noted that he exchanged thoughts with Qureshi on the security situation in South Asia and that mediation, as well as talks, were the only solution to regional conflicts," the Secretary-General said. Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after New Delhi abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 last year. India's decision evoked strong reactions from Pakistan, which downgraded its diplomatic ties with India. However, India has defended its move, saying that the special status provisions were revoked in order to bring development in the region and reduce cross-border terrorism. A proposal of mediation was also offered last year by US President Donald Trump in the presence of Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan at a joint press conference during the latter`s visit to Washington in July. Meanwhile, during his meeting with the president, a day after Trump held bilateral talks with Khan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is not shying away from talks with Pakistan and has urged it to take concrete steps to tackle terrorism but they have not made any efforts to combat the menace. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that dialogue with Pakistan will not initiate until it takes concrete action against terror emanating from its soil. Putting forward his perspective on terrorism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had further conveyed to President Trump that 42,000 lives have been lost in terror attacks in the last 30 years and that it is imperative for the international community to join the fight against terror.

'India's position has not changed': MEA rejects mediation offer by UN Secretary-General on Kashmir

The world we live in is based on consensus. The world community agrees on certain fundamental things like history, or in this case, maps.

But Google seems to disagree.

If you are using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-map-of-india-released-with-union-territories-of-jammu-and-kashmir-ladakh-259556">Google maps in India</a>, you'll see that the whole of Kashmir is marked as Indian territory. But the moment you leave the country, your map will also change.

For the global audience, Kashmir is marked with a dotted line which supposed to indicate that Kashmir is a disputed region.

As for India's position, it has always been clear, Kashmir is an integral part of the country.

But<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/google-maps-adds-navigation-mode-for-two-wheelers-in-india-25961"> Google's dual maps </a>cut directly at the root of India's territorial integrity.

There is no one yardstick that Google uses to draw maps. According to some Google employees, they take into account the opinion of diplomats and even company executives.

On multiple ocassions, Google had changed its border depictions after facing a backlash.

The move creates a lot of confusion for its users.

Take the example of a Russian citizen who is using Google maps in Moscow. For him, Kashmir will look like a disputed region on the map.

But the Russian government actually recognises Kashmir as an integral part of India.

Then there is also the issue of goodwill.

In January 2020, 98 per cent of all internet users in India were using Google. In the last financial year, their profits from India were up 16 per cent.

Unlike in other countries, Google has had a hassle-free experience in India.

But instead, Google has directed its goodwill towards China.

A country that has essentially banned the service within its borders.

China censors Google's search engine and eliminates all anti-government activity.

And yet, all google services including Google maps stay within the limits of what the Chinese government says.

The world we live in is based on consensus. The world community agrees on certain fundamental things like history, or in this case, maps. But Google seems to disagree.

The world we live in is based on consensus. The world community agrees on certain fundamental things like history, or in this case, maps. But Google seems to disagree. If you are using Google maps in India, you'll see that the whole of Kashmir is marked as Indian territory. But the moment you leave the country, your map will also change. For the global audience, Kashmir is marked with a dotted line which supposed to indicate that Kashmir is a disputed region. As for India's position, it has always been clear, Kashmir is an integral part of the country. But Google's dual maps cut directly at the root of India's territorial integrity. There is no one yardstick that Google uses to draw maps. According to some Google employees, they take into account the opinion of diplomats and even company executives. On multiple ocassions, Google had changed its border depictions after facing a backlash. The move creates a lot of confusion for its users. Take the example of a Russian citizen who is using Google maps in Moscow. For him, Kashmir will look like a disputed region on the map. But the Russian government actually recognises Kashmir as an integral part of India. Then there is also the issue of goodwill. In January 2020, 98 per cent of all internet users in India were using Google. In the last financial year, their profits from India were up 16 per cent. Unlike in other countries, Google has had a hassle-free experience in India. But instead, Google has directed its goodwill towards China. A country that has essentially banned the service within its borders. China censors Google's search engine and eliminates all anti-government activity. And yet, all google services including Google maps stay within the limits of what the Chinese government says.

Google Maps marks Kashmir's 'disputed' when seen from outside India

India has asked Turkey not to interfere in India's internal matters. But President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently vows to support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. After which India strictly responds.

Turkish President vows to support Pakistan on Kashmir, India strictly responds

PM Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Smriti Irani and Hardeep Puri,West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal were among those who remembered those killed when a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel was attacked on February 14 last year.

WION Dispatch: Nation Pays homage to Pulwama Martyrs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in paying tribute to the 40 CRPF personnel killed in a terror attack in Pulwama a year ago and said India will never forget their martyrdom.

Pulwama attack anniversary: PM Modi, leaders pay homage to brave CRPF personnel

On a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir,&nbsp;the second batch of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-batch-of-foreign-envoys-to-visit-jammu-and-kashmir-today-280184">foreign envoys met civil society members</a> in the valley on Wednesday. After the visit, the envoys expressed satisfaction over the situation in Kashmir valley and said that they see "a lot of hope" in the region.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-take-foreign-envoys-to-kashmir-on-january-9-272780">batch has 25 foreign envoys</a>, including envoys from Germany, Canada, France, New Zealand, Mexico, Italy, Afghanistan, Austria, Uzbekistan, Poland, as well as envoys of the European Union (EU).

"This is a very important part of India. People I've been talking to want this region to be developed," said, Dinah Grace Akello, Uganda's High Commissioner to India.

"I met people from sports, those interested in economic growth and those who want to bring investors here. I see a lot of hope now," Akello added.

Ambassador of Denmark who was also part of the delegation said, "It's important to visit Kashmir," as he stressed on direct dialogue with locals.&nbsp;

"You can't have a dialogue about Kashmiris if you haven't heard what expectations and wishes they have for the future. It is important to have a holistic picture."

"We have come here to see normalisation of situation after abrogation of Article 370. We've seen commerce happening, streets full of people; normalcy returning, slowly but surely things will get better," said Dean of Diplomatic Corps in India, Ambassador Hans Dannenberg Castellanos.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan Envoy Tahir Qadiry hailed 'mehman nawazi' (hospitality) of people of Kashmir and said "We have been here only a couple of hours but can see shops open, children going to school etc. Met civil society members also, they really want peace in Kashmir."

"It is great to come to Kashmir," Qadiry also said.

Security has been beefed up in Srinagar as the second batch of foreign envoys arrived in Sri Nagar today.&nbsp;

The latest visit is aimed at demonstrating measures undertaken by the government to restore normalcy in the newly created Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. During the visit, the envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.&nbsp;

The delegation is also scheduled to visit Baramullah where they will be briefed by the Army.&nbsp;

The envoys are also expected to meet &nbsp;Lt. Governor GC Murmu in Jammu.

The envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

On a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir, the second batch of foreign envoys met civil society members in the valley on Wednesday. After the visit, the envoys expressed satisfaction over the situation in Kashmir valley and said that they see "a lot of hope" in the region.

On a two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir, the second batch of foreign envoys met civil society members in the valley on Wednesday. After the visit, the envoys expressed satisfaction over the situation in Kashmir valley and said that they see "a lot of hope" in the region. The batch has 25 foreign envoys, including envoys from Germany, Canada, France, New Zealand, Mexico, Italy, Afghanistan, Austria, Uzbekistan, Poland, as well as envoys of the European Union (EU). "This is a very important part of India. People I've been talking to want this region to be developed," said, Dinah Grace Akello, Uganda's High Commissioner to India. "I met people from sports, those interested in economic growth and those who want to bring investors here. I see a lot of hope now," Akello added. Ambassador of Denmark who was also part of the delegation said, "It's important to visit Kashmir," as he stressed on direct dialogue with locals. "You can't have a dialogue about Kashmiris if you haven't heard what expectations and wishes they have for the future. It is important to have a holistic picture." "We have come here to see normalisation of situation after abrogation of Article 370. We've seen commerce happening, streets full of people; normalcy returning, slowly but surely things will get better," said Dean of Diplomatic Corps in India, Ambassador Hans Dannenberg Castellanos. Meanwhile, Afghanistan Envoy Tahir Qadiry hailed 'mehman nawazi' (hospitality) of people of Kashmir and said "We have been here only a couple of hours but can see shops open, children going to school etc. Met civil society members also, they really want peace in Kashmir." "It is great to come to Kashmir," Qadiry also said. Security has been beefed up in Srinagar as the second batch of foreign envoys arrived in Sri Nagar today. The latest visit is aimed at demonstrating measures undertaken by the government to restore normalcy in the newly created Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. During the visit, the envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit. The delegation is also scheduled to visit Baramullah where they will be briefed by the Army. The envoys are also expected to meet Lt. Governor GC Murmu in Jammu. The envoys will be apprised of the ground situation following the abrogation of Article 370 which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir during their visit.

'See lot of hope now': Foreign envoys express satisfaction after Kashmir visit

The second batch of foreign envoys will visit Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. The visit comes a month after a delegation of ambassadors visited the Union Territory last month.

Group of 25 envoys to visit Jammu and Kashmir today

The second batch of foreign envoys arrive in Srinagar. The batch has 25 foreign envoys, including envoys from Germany, Canada, France, New Zealand, Mexico, Italy, Afghanistan, Austria, Uzbekistan, Poland, as well as envoys of the European Union (EU).

Second batch of 25 foreign envoys arrives in Srinagar

India is all geared up as Pakistan is all set to raise Kashmir at the 43rd session of Human Rights Council that will take place in Geneva from February 24 to March 20.&nbsp;

Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi will be leading his country's delegation for the meet, with India also expected to send a high-level delegation.

This is for the second time Pakistan FM will be travelling to Geneva to raise Kashmir after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state in August.&nbsp;

Pakistan was keen to bring a resolution on Kashmir in the council that time but failed to get any support.

August saw India Pakistan clash at the council as Islamabad raised the issue which New Delhi said is a matter internal to it.&nbsp;

Last year, the Indian delegation was led by secretary east Vijay Thakur Singh and included the then Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria.

India is all geared up as Pakistan is all set to raise Kashmir at the 43rd session of Human Rights Council that will take place in Geneva from February 24 to March 20.

India is all geared up as Pakistan is all set to raise Kashmir at the 43rd session of Human Rights Council that will take place in Geneva from February 24 to March 20. Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi will be leading his country's delegation for the meet, with India also expected to send a high-level delegation. This is for the second time Pakistan FM will be travelling to Geneva to raise Kashmir after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state in August. Pakistan was keen to bring a resolution on Kashmir in the council that time but failed to get any support. August saw India Pakistan clash at the council as Islamabad raised the issue which New Delhi said is a matter internal to it. Last year, the Indian delegation was led by secretary east Vijay Thakur Singh and included the then Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria.

India gears up as Pakistan all set to rake Kashmir at United Nations Human Rights Council

Mainstream leaders of Jammu and Kashmir will remain in detention. The decision to slap Public Safety Act on Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti has triggered a massive debate. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why keeping the leaders in detention might be a bad idea.

Gravitas: Top Kashmir politicians to stay in detention

A young woman police officer in Kashmir is winning hearts and praises for her action in countering the drug abuse in central Kashmir's Budgam district by arresting drug traders and seizing illegal drugs from youth as young as 16 to 25 years.

Nilza shot to fame after her video, where a large crowd can be seen cheering her in Budgam district for her work in countering drug menace, went viral. The drug use by youth has been a cause of concern for the locals in the area where the young officer is deployed.

Hailing from a far-flung village in Ladakh, Nilza is a fresh face in the ranks of Jammu and Kashmir police. She says that she has taken a pledge to fight against the menace of drug abuse in Kashmir.

"I never imagined that this video will get such a great response. This is just the tip of an iceberg. There is more to do and my senior officers have been doing the commendable job before me to control drug abuse," said Nilza Angmo, DySP in her first interview in the uniform.

In just a month, Nilza has arrested nearly a dozen youth along with drugs that include Corex bottles, diazepam tablets and other banned drugs which are commonly used by addicts.

"Drugs and drug abuse has become an evil in our society which is threatening. For more than a year, we have launched a sustained strategy to counter this and at least 40 to 45 FIRs have been registered in a year in the district," says Amod Ashok Nagpure, Superintendent of Police Budgam district, adding that these efforts are paying returns.

The locals of the surrounding villages are praising the police and the officer for her work and expect more stringent against the drug suppliers in Kashmir valley.

"There can be no better service than this. Our youth is getting ruined because of these drugs. I want to thank the police officer for her action and hope police will continue to counter drug abuse," says young Aqib, who hails from the village where people praised the officer.

A young woman police officer in Kashmir is winning hearts and praises for her action in countering the drug abuse in central Kashmir's Budgam district by arresting drug traders and seizing illegal drugs from youth as young as 16 to 25 years.

A young woman police officer in Kashmir is winning hearts and praises for her action in countering the drug abuse in central Kashmir's Budgam district by arresting drug traders and seizing illegal drugs from youth as young as 16 to 25 years. Nilza shot to fame after her video, where a large crowd can be seen cheering her in Budgam district for her work in countering drug menace, went viral. The drug use by youth has been a cause of concern for the locals in the area where the young officer is deployed. Hailing from a far-flung village in Ladakh, Nilza is a fresh face in the ranks of Jammu and Kashmir police. She says that she has taken a pledge to fight against the menace of drug abuse in Kashmir. "I never imagined that this video will get such a great response. This is just the tip of an iceberg. There is more to do and my senior officers have been doing the commendable job before me to control drug abuse," said Nilza Angmo, DySP in her first interview in the uniform. In just a month, Nilza has arrested nearly a dozen youth along with drugs that include Corex bottles, diazepam tablets and other banned drugs which are commonly used by addicts. "Drugs and drug abuse has become an evil in our society which is threatening. For more than a year, we have launched a sustained strategy to counter this and at least 40 to 45 FIRs have been registered in a year in the district," says Amod Ashok Nagpure, Superintendent of Police Budgam district, adding that these efforts are paying returns. The locals of the surrounding villages are praising the police and the officer for her work and expect more stringent against the drug suppliers in Kashmir valley. "There can be no better service than this. Our youth is getting ruined because of these drugs. I want to thank the police officer for her action and hope police will continue to counter drug abuse," says young Aqib, who hails from the village where people praised the officer.

Meet young woman police officer who is winning hearts in Kashmir

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran khan went to Malaysia promising to unite the Muslim world but his balancing act may have back-fired.

Imran has slammed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation for failing to speak in one voice over Kashmir as Saudi Arabia continues to show reluctance to accept Islamabad’s request for an immediate meeting on the issue.

Pakistan wants an OIC meeting on Kashmir and Saudi Arabia has reportedly rejected the request.

The Pakistan media says that no progress has been made by the council of OIC foreign ministers on Pakistan's request.

The reason — Saudi Arabia isn't game for this. They won't back Pakistan's cause. This is significant — because Saudi Arabia is the de-facto leader of the OIC.

Looks like — Imran Khan's stunts haven't paid off. Driving the Saudi prince around has taken the prime minister nowhere. That is not to say that the kingdom never backed Imran Khan.

In December — after his absence from the Kuala Lumpur summit of Muslim nations. Saudi Arabia had shown flexibility on the proposal of a forum on Kashmir.

This Saudi flexibility, however, was short-lived. Riyadh has now done a u-turn. Imran Khan's Malaysia visit has turned into a diplomatic disaster.

Turns out — Saudi Arabia was not taken into confidence. Reports of Saudi disapproval had emerged earlier too.

What probably adds to their reluctance -- is this confession by Imran Khan on divisions within the OIC.

“The reason is that we have no voice and there is a total division amongst [us]. We can’t even come together as a whole on the OIC meeting on Kashmir," Imra Khan said indirectly chiding Saudi Arabia and UAE for diluting Pakistan’s stand.

This may have been enough to miff the self-proclaimed custodians of the Muslim community.

The message from Riyadh is clear — domestic political narratives cannot drive foreign policy.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran khan went to Malaysia promising to unite the Muslim world but his balancing act may have back-fired. Imran has slammed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation for failing to speak in one voice over Kashmir as Saudi Arabia continues to show reluctance to accept Islamabad’s request for an immediate meeting on the issue.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran khan went to Malaysia promising to unite the Muslim world but his balancing act may have back-fired. Imran has slammed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation for failing to speak in one voice over Kashmir as Saudi Arabia continues to show reluctance to accept Islamabad’s request for an immediate meeting on the issue. Pakistan wants an OIC meeting on Kashmir and Saudi Arabia has reportedly rejected the request. The Pakistan media says that no progress has been made by the council of OIC foreign ministers on Pakistan's request. The reason — Saudi Arabia isn't game for this. They won't back Pakistan's cause. This is significant — because Saudi Arabia is the de-facto leader of the OIC. Looks like — Imran Khan's stunts haven't paid off. Driving the Saudi prince around has taken the prime minister nowhere. That is not to say that the kingdom never backed Imran Khan. In December — after his absence from the Kuala Lumpur summit of Muslim nations. Saudi Arabia had shown flexibility on the proposal of a forum on Kashmir. This Saudi flexibility, however, was short-lived. Riyadh has now done a u-turn. Imran Khan's Malaysia visit has turned into a diplomatic disaster. Turns out — Saudi Arabia was not taken into confidence. Reports of Saudi disapproval had emerged earlier too. What probably adds to their reluctance -- is this confession by Imran Khan on divisions within the OIC. “The reason is that we have no voice and there is a total division amongst [us]. We can’t even come together as a whole on the OIC meeting on Kashmir," Imra Khan said indirectly chiding Saudi Arabia and UAE for diluting Pakistan’s stand. This may have been enough to miff the self-proclaimed custodians of the Muslim community. The message from Riyadh is clear — domestic political narratives cannot drive foreign policy.

Pakistan's diplomatic efforts go in vain as Saudi Arabia unwilling to back OIC ministers’ meeting on Kashmir

An unofficial visit by European lawmakers had a purpose, it was supposed to display normalcy in the Kashmir Valley.

But, from the moment it was announced, the entire affair snowballed into an epic blunder. New Delhi shot itself in the foot again when it invited foreign envoys for a trip to Kashmir.

Access to the newly created Union Territory has been hard to come by. Furthermore, opposition parties and elected lawmakers haven't been allowed to travel to the Valley.

Under these circumstances, visits by foreign delegations can hardly give the headlines the government is looking for. In fact, the move has now led to more international scrutiny of the Indian government.

The government says the CAA and the Kashmir issue are an internal matter of India. And they are right, it was approved by the Indian government and passed by the lawmakers in Parliament.&nbsp;

Any scrutiny of the law will be done by Indian institutions. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against the CAA, even the Kashmir move has been legally challenged.&nbsp;

New Delhi's hurried moves to showcase 'normalcy' in the valley was a damp squib for two reasons:

First, it did not settle the concerns of the international community. In less than 24 hours after the American ambassador visited Kashmir, the US State Department slammed India for the communication blackout in Kashmir.

Second, it opened up the government to more scrutiny from the opposition.&nbsp;

Despite clarifications, both the trips were labelled as 'guided tours'. The outreach lost its credibility in the process. What followed was a barrage of criticism and the recent protests against the CAA has kept the pot boiling.&nbsp;

In the process, India's carefully crafted international image is taking a beating. New Delhi is losing out on the momentum it built with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's global outreach.&nbsp;

While the debate within the European Parliament has no direct impact on India, it does cast a shadow.

Such events set the tone for India's engagements in Europe, especially for the India-EU Summit in March. The constant attempts to seek external validation is a case of misplaced priorities.

The Kashmir move, as well as the CAA, triggered debates but also found support at home. The government's engagements won it the approval or silence of strategic partners outside.

But to bring their lawmakers as inspectors, to seek their approval or certificates was an unmitigated blunder. The government must re-think its strategy.

Kashmir and CAA are internal matters and they don't need external approval. If the government feels the need to impress someone, it should start with Indians, including those who oppose its decisions.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

An unofficial visit by European lawmakers had a purpose, it was supposed to display normalcy in the Kashmir Valley. But, from the moment it was announced, the entire affair snowballed into an epic blunder.

An unofficial visit by European lawmakers had a purpose, it was supposed to display normalcy in the Kashmir Valley. But, from the moment it was announced, the entire affair snowballed into an epic blunder. New Delhi shot itself in the foot again when it invited foreign envoys for a trip to Kashmir. Access to the newly created Union Territory has been hard to come by. Furthermore, opposition parties and elected lawmakers haven't been allowed to travel to the Valley. Under these circumstances, visits by foreign delegations can hardly give the headlines the government is looking for. In fact, the move has now led to more international scrutiny of the Indian government. The government says the CAA and the Kashmir issue are an internal matter of India. And they are right, it was approved by the Indian government and passed by the lawmakers in Parliament. Any scrutiny of the law will be done by Indian institutions. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against the CAA, even the Kashmir move has been legally challenged. New Delhi's hurried moves to showcase 'normalcy' in the valley was a damp squib for two reasons: First, it did not settle the concerns of the international community. In less than 24 hours after the American ambassador visited Kashmir, the US State Department slammed India for the communication blackout in Kashmir. Second, it opened up the government to more scrutiny from the opposition. Despite clarifications, both the trips were labelled as 'guided tours'. The outreach lost its credibility in the process. What followed was a barrage of criticism and the recent protests against the CAA has kept the pot boiling. In the process, India's carefully crafted international image is taking a beating. New Delhi is losing out on the momentum it built with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's global outreach. While the debate within the European Parliament has no direct impact on India, it does cast a shadow. Such events set the tone for India's engagements in Europe, especially for the India-EU Summit in March. The constant attempts to seek external validation is a case of misplaced priorities. The Kashmir move, as well as the CAA, triggered debates but also found support at home. The government's engagements won it the approval or silence of strategic partners outside. But to bring their lawmakers as inspectors, to seek their approval or certificates was an unmitigated blunder. The government must re-think its strategy. Kashmir and CAA are internal matters and they don't need external approval. If the government feels the need to impress someone, it should start with Indians, including those who oppose its decisions. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Wion Edit: Did India's move to take European lawmakers to Kashmir backfire?

The 2G data services restored in Jammu and Kashmir from Saturday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdrew the autonomy of the Muslim majority region by ending a nearly six-month communication lockdown.

2G Internet Services Restored In J&K, No Access To Social Media

Nepal on Saturday became the first South Asian nation to offer to "mediate" between India and Pakistan over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism with a Nepal government source underlining the importance of dialogue between the two arch-rivals to resolve their differences that could also lead to the revival of the SAARC.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have spiked since India abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in August last year. India's decision evoked strong reactions from Pakistan, which downgraded diplomatic ties and expelled the Indian envoy.

"Peaceful talks and discussions are the best ways to resolve any problems. There may be contradictions and differences but it can be resolved through dialogue. If necessary, we can play the role of the mediator as Nepal is an independent, neutral and peace loving country," the source said here.

The source, however, said that better solution to resolve the issues would be to develop better dialogue between two countries.

"We can be instrumental, but it will be better (for the two sides) to develop direct contact," the source told a group of visiting Indian journalists.

Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump repeated his offer to "help" resolve the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan during his meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

New Delhi maintains that there is no scope for any third-party mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir.

"When we come together, sit together and share views then things will be resolved. In every situation, we have to sit together and try to resolve the problem otherwise things can be deteriorated," the Nepalese source said.

Expressing concern over the uncertainty prevailing over the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit, the source said the eight member grouping should be revitalised and misunderstandings should be removed.

"SAARC is not dead. It is alive. Only thing is that we have not met. Hope we can revive it," he said.

The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The 2016 SAARC summit was to be held in Islamabad. But after the terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances".

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet.

In the last three years, India has been distancing itself from the SAARC, citing security challenge facing the region from terror networks based in Pakistan, which is also a member of the grouping.

Nepal is still the Chairman of the SAARC because of the postponement of the 2016 summit in Islamabad.

On Friday, Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said his country is "ready and eager" to handover the position to Pakistan.

The source said that there was no link between SAARC and terrorism, a major issue between India and Pakistan that led to the cancellation of the 2016 summit.

"We are strongly against all forms and manifestations of terrorism. But there is no relationship between the two (SAARC and terrorism). We cannot connect the two issues," the source said.

Nepal, India, Pakistan, the Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are the members of the SAARC.

Identifying terrorism as a common threat to peace loving countries, the source said, "We have to deal with the issue of terrorism".

"I think that misunderstandings should be narrowed down and SAARC should be revitalised. It would be better to revise SAARC. I have told India that SAARC should be revitalised. We can find out amicable solutions," the source said.

SAARC summits are usually held biennially and hosted by member states in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association. 
On the boundary issue with India, the source said the two countries can discuss any issue based on "truth, evidences and facts".

India in November released fresh maps of the newly-created union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. In the maps, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is part of Jammu and Kashmir, while Gilgit-Baltistan is in Ladakh.

Nepal claimed that Limpiyadhura, Lipulek and Kalapani areas were shown under India's territory even though they lie within the Nepalese territory.

India has said the new map accurately depicts its sovereign territory and it has in no manner revised its boundary with Nepal.

"We can resolve any issue if we discuss. Sometimes some issues are left unresolved. We should not keep something in mind and don't speak out. This is not the situation now," the source said.

"We can share and discuss openly, including on the border issue. We are developing our friendly ties in a new track and depth," he said, adding that the leaders of the two sides have developed very good relations and taken the bilateral ties to the next level.

On National Register of Citizens (NRC) and its possible impact on Nepali speaking people and Gorkhas, the source said Nepal has been reassured by the statement of Defence

Minister Rajnath Singh that it would not have any impact on them.

"This is an issue of India and the people of India and they will resolve themselves," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nepal on Saturday became the first South Asian nation to offer to "mediate" between India and Pakistan over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism with a Nepal government source underlining the importance of dialogue between the two arch-rivals to resolve their differences that could also lead to the revival of the SAARC.

Nepal on Saturday became the first South Asian nation to offer to "mediate" between India and Pakistan over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism with a Nepal government source underlining the importance of dialogue between the two arch-rivals to resolve their differences that could also lead to the revival of the SAARC. Tensions between India and Pakistan have spiked since India abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in August last year. India's decision evoked strong reactions from Pakistan, which downgraded diplomatic ties and expelled the Indian envoy. "Peaceful talks and discussions are the best ways to resolve any problems. There may be contradictions and differences but it can be resolved through dialogue. If necessary, we can play the role of the mediator as Nepal is an independent, neutral and peace loving country," the source said here. The source, however, said that better solution to resolve the issues would be to develop better dialogue between two countries. "We can be instrumental, but it will be better (for the two sides) to develop direct contact," the source told a group of visiting Indian journalists. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump repeated his offer to "help" resolve the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan during his meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. New Delhi maintains that there is no scope for any third-party mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. "When we come together, sit together and share views then things will be resolved. In every situation, we have to sit together and try to resolve the problem otherwise things can be deteriorated," the Nepalese source said. Expressing concern over the uncertainty prevailing over the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit, the source said the eight member grouping should be revitalised and misunderstandings should be removed. "SAARC is not dead. It is alive. Only thing is that we have not met. Hope we can revive it," he said. The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 2016 SAARC summit was to be held in Islamabad. But after the terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances". The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. In the last three years, India has been distancing itself from the SAARC, citing security challenge facing the region from terror networks based in Pakistan, which is also a member of the grouping. Nepal is still the Chairman of the SAARC because of the postponement of the 2016 summit in Islamabad. On Friday, Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said his country is "ready and eager" to handover the position to Pakistan. The source said that there was no link between SAARC and terrorism, a major issue between India and Pakistan that led to the cancellation of the 2016 summit. "We are strongly against all forms and manifestations of terrorism. But there is no relationship between the two (SAARC and terrorism). We cannot connect the two issues," the source said. Nepal, India, Pakistan, the Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are the members of the SAARC. Identifying terrorism as a common threat to peace loving countries, the source said, "We have to deal with the issue of terrorism". "I think that misunderstandings should be narrowed down and SAARC should be revitalised. It would be better to revise SAARC. I have told India that SAARC should be revitalised. We can find out amicable solutions," the source said. SAARC summits are usually held biennially and hosted by member states in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association. On the boundary issue with India, the source said the two countries can discuss any issue based on "truth, evidences and facts". India in November released fresh maps of the newly-created union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. In the maps, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is part of Jammu and Kashmir, while Gilgit-Baltistan is in Ladakh. Nepal claimed that Limpiyadhura, Lipulek and Kalapani areas were shown under India's territory even though they lie within the Nepalese territory. India has said the new map accurately depicts its sovereign territory and it has in no manner revised its boundary with Nepal. "We can resolve any issue if we discuss. Sometimes some issues are left unresolved. We should not keep something in mind and don't speak out. This is not the situation now," the source said. "We can share and discuss openly, including on the border issue. We are developing our friendly ties in a new track and depth," he said, adding that the leaders of the two sides have developed very good relations and taken the bilateral ties to the next level. On National Register of Citizens (NRC) and its possible impact on Nepali speaking people and Gorkhas, the source said Nepal has been reassured by the statement of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh that it would not have any impact on them. "This is an issue of India and the people of India and they will resolve themselves," he added.

Nepal offers to play role of mediator between India and Pakistan

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in&nbsp;Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter".

Addressing a weekly press briefing, Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position on the Kashmir issue and third-party mediation has been very clear and consistent, Let me reiterate that there is no role for any third party in this matter."&nbsp;

The MEA spokesperson further said that any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-way-forward-is-via-peace-settlements-pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-talks-with-india-275984">bilateral issues between India and Pakistan</a>&nbsp;should be discussed between both countries under the provisions of Shimla agreement and the Lahore declaration.

"But the onus is on Pakistan to create such conducive conditions - free from terror, hostility and violence," the foreign ministry spokesman asserted.

Kumar further said, "India doesn't need Pakistan's advice on India's internal matters".

"Pakistan's attempt to create alarmist situation in Kashmir has failed; global community understands its double standards," Kumar added.

On Tuesday, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during a meeting with US President Donald Trump had once again&nbsp;raised the Kashmir matter after which the US offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help resolve the matter.&nbsp;

"We are talking about Kashmir and its relation to, what's going on between India and Pakistan that we can help, we certainly would be helping, and we have been watching that and have been following it very very closely," Trump had said.

This is not the first time the Pakistan prime minister has raised the Kashmir issue&nbsp;at an international forum.

Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-efforts-to-raise-kashmir-at-un-security-council-crumbled-once-again-274575">Pakistan along with its all-weather ally, China, raised the Kashmir issue</a> for a third time at the United Nations security council. But, the UN maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

Relations between India and Pakistan have been tensed since last year after a &nbsp;Pakistan-based terrorist group attacked an Indian Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Around 40 soldiers were killed in the incident.

The relations between the two countries spiralled after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 and a bill bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories.

Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter".

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter". Addressing a weekly press briefing, Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position on the Kashmir issue and third-party mediation has been very clear and consistent, Let me reiterate that there is no role for any third party in this matter." The MEA spokesperson further said that any bilateral issues between India and Pakistan should be discussed between both countries under the provisions of Shimla agreement and the Lahore declaration. "But the onus is on Pakistan to create such conducive conditions - free from terror, hostility and violence," the foreign ministry spokesman asserted. Kumar further said, "India doesn't need Pakistan's advice on India's internal matters". "Pakistan's attempt to create alarmist situation in Kashmir has failed; global community understands its double standards," Kumar added. On Tuesday, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during a meeting with US President Donald Trump had once again raised the Kashmir matter after which the US offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help resolve the matter. "We are talking about Kashmir and its relation to, what's going on between India and Pakistan that we can help, we certainly would be helping, and we have been watching that and have been following it very very closely," Trump had said. This is not the first time the Pakistan prime minister has raised the Kashmir issue at an international forum. Earlier this month, Pakistan along with its all-weather ally, China, raised the Kashmir issue for a third time at the United Nations security council. But, the UN maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. Relations between India and Pakistan have been tensed since last year after a Pakistan-based terrorist group attacked an Indian Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Around 40 soldiers were killed in the incident. The relations between the two countries spiralled after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 and a bill bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India

Speaking to the media in presence of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Trump said, "We are talking about Kashmir in relation to what is going on with Pakistan and India. If we can help, we certainly will be helping."

Imran Khan, Trump discuss Kashmir at Davos

The first snowboarder of the season arrives in Gulmarg after Kashmir valley reopens for visitors. He finds a winter wonderland perfect for winter sports, the only thing missing, are people...

WION Traveller S3 Episode 20 – Johan in wonderland

Commenting on the recent visit of envoys from various countries of Jammu and Kashmir, Russia said on Friday that they were not invited to visit the Valley as Moscow never doubted India's view on Kashmir.

Russian envoy backs India on Kashmir says, "No doubt on situation in Kashmir"

Russia's ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev has backed New Delhi's position on Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on the sidelines of the global conclave in New Delhi he said that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and must never be raised at the United Nations.

Russia backs India on Kashmir, says Kashmir is a bilateral issue

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions.&nbsp;

Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay&nbsp;Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council".

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The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome.&nbsp;

On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space".

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"Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said.&nbsp;

The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions.&nbsp;

"If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.&nbsp;

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned.

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council". Also read: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties? The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome. On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space". Also read: Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India "Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said. The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions. "If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.

Russia supports India, says Moscow isn't in favour of Kashmir being discussed at United Nations 

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage.

This time — a fresh letter was drafted on the behalf of Islamabad, Vietnam and Beijing.United Nations has maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

The efforts were meant to revive the failed December 2019 bid to raise Kashmir at the UNSC. The council did not take up a letter by Pakistan last month — after India pushed back strongly with the help of its supporters in the council — mainly France and the US.

Meanwhile — deputy representative of Russia to the UN has also reacted to China's move.

He said and I quote — UNSC discussed Kashmir in closed consultations. Russia firmly stands for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

He also said that Russia is hopeful that differences will be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration.

India slammed the move — asking Islamabad to focus on issues like sheltering terrorists.

The Indian envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that — China got a stinging response when it raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal consultation.

Reports suggest that the Chinese-Pakistani plan was meant to set the stage for Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to the US.

Foreign minister Qureshi has arrived the US for a three-day visit.

Meanwhile — in Kashmir — the valley has brought some slow but gradual signs of normalcy.

Like the release of political detainees, visit of European parliament MPs, the successful conduct of football matches, and the restoration of the internet in Kargil.

While New Delhi is taking notes — that China has raised the issue of Kashmir twice after the Mamallapuram summit between President Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi.

Beijing has also not yielded on any of its core interests apart from siding with Islamabad on major diplomatic fronts.

This when India has reiterated its stance — that Kashmir remains an internal matter.

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage.

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage. This time — a fresh letter was drafted on the behalf of Islamabad, Vietnam and Beijing.United Nations has maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. The efforts were meant to revive the failed December 2019 bid to raise Kashmir at the UNSC. The council did not take up a letter by Pakistan last month — after India pushed back strongly with the help of its supporters in the council — mainly France and the US. Meanwhile — deputy representative of Russia to the UN has also reacted to China's move. He said and I quote — UNSC discussed Kashmir in closed consultations. Russia firmly stands for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan. He also said that Russia is hopeful that differences will be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration. India slammed the move — asking Islamabad to focus on issues like sheltering terrorists. The Indian envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that — China got a stinging response when it raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal consultation. Reports suggest that the Chinese-Pakistani plan was meant to set the stage for Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to the US. Foreign minister Qureshi has arrived the US for a three-day visit. Meanwhile — in Kashmir — the valley has brought some slow but gradual signs of normalcy. Like the release of political detainees, visit of European parliament MPs, the successful conduct of football matches, and the restoration of the internet in Kargil. While New Delhi is taking notes — that China has raised the issue of Kashmir twice after the Mamallapuram summit between President Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi. Beijing has also not yielded on any of its core interests apart from siding with Islamabad on major diplomatic fronts. This when India has reiterated its stance — that Kashmir remains an internal matter.

Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again

Lieutenant Governor GC Murmu on Wednesday said that normal communication channels will be opened in the region after a review.

"We are reviewing continuously, and accordingly we are relaxing everything. In the coming days, normal communication technology and communications channels will be opened," Murmu told reporters here after the administration issued orders for partial restoration of internet services in the Union Territory from Wednesday.

When asked whether he is satisfied with normalcy returning to Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said, "Definitely, the situation is normal in Jammu and other parts. People are now participating in development."

Earlier on Tuesday, the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued orders to partially allow 2G mobile connectivity on postpaid mobiles for accessing white-listed sites in five districts of Jammu region-- Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi from January 15.

The administration also allowed broadband internet services in hotels, educational institutions and travel establishments in the Union Territory.

According to the order issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department, the Kashmir division will establish an additional 400 internet kiosks.

The order came days after the Supreme Court, on January 10, directed to review all orders suspending internet services in Jammu and Kashmir and stated that the "right to access the internet is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the constitution".

The Central government had suspended the internet in the region following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories -- Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Lieutenant Governor GC Murmu on Wednesday said that normal communication channels will be opened in the region after a review. "We are reviewing continuously, and accordingly we are relaxing everything.

Lieutenant Governor GC Murmu on Wednesday said that normal communication channels will be opened in the region after a review. "We are reviewing continuously, and accordingly we are relaxing everything. In the coming days, normal communication technology and communications channels will be opened," Murmu told reporters here after the administration issued orders for partial restoration of internet services in the Union Territory from Wednesday. When asked whether he is satisfied with normalcy returning to Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said, "Definitely, the situation is normal in Jammu and other parts. People are now participating in development." Earlier on Tuesday, the Jammu and Kashmir administration issued orders to partially allow 2G mobile connectivity on postpaid mobiles for accessing white-listed sites in five districts of Jammu region-- Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi from January 15. The administration also allowed broadband internet services in hotels, educational institutions and travel establishments in the Union Territory. According to the order issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department, the Kashmir division will establish an additional 400 internet kiosks. The order came days after the Supreme Court, on January 10, directed to review all orders suspending internet services in Jammu and Kashmir and stated that the "right to access the internet is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the constitution". The Central government had suspended the internet in the region following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories -- Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.

Normal communication channels will be opened after review:  J&K LG Murmu

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