<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan</a> on Thursday carried out night training launch of&nbsp;surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi in Balochistan.

The director-general of Pakistan military operations tweeted out a video of the missile test which was carried out at night.

The missile has a reported distance capability of 290 kilometres.It can deliver multiple types of warheads.

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Pakistan successfully carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi, capable of delivering multiple types of warheads upto 290 KMs. CJCSC &amp; Services Chiefs congrat team. President &amp; PM conveyed appreciation to team &amp; congrats to the nation. <a href="https://t.co/hmoUKRPWev">pic.twitter.com/hmoUKRPWev</a>
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1166955085924130816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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These tests are a last-ditch effort by Pakistan to try and internationalise Jammu and Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks.

Pakistan has closed its airspace form August 28 to August 31, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken.

The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests.

Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile.

Reports indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August 26, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005.

According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests three days before the actual testing.But, the Indian government seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests.

The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action.So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

Pakistan on Thursday carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi in Balochistan. The director-general of Pakistan military operations tweeted out a video of the missile test which was carried out at night.

Pakistan on Thursday carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi in Balochistan. The director-general of Pakistan military operations tweeted out a video of the missile test which was carried out at night. The missile has a reported distance capability of 290 kilometres.It can deliver multiple types of warheads. Pakistan successfully carried out night training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Ghaznavi, capable of delivering multiple types of warheads upto 290 KMs. CJCSC & Services Chiefs congrat team. President & PM conveyed appreciation to team & congrats to the nation. pic.twitter.com/hmoUKRPWev — DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) August 29, 2019 × These tests are a last-ditch effort by Pakistan to try and internationalise Jammu and Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks. Pakistan has closed its airspace form August 28 to August 31, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken. The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests. Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile. Reports indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August 26, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005. According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests three days before the actual testing.But, the Indian government seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests. The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action.So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

After failure at diplomatic front, Pakistan test-fires Ghaznavi missile

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Imran Khan</a> is on a desperate mission to draw international attention to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-saudi-crown-prince-discuss-kashmir-issue-third-time-246030">Kashmir,</a> and to satisfy the jihadi elements within his own country.

After failed diplomatic efforts, threats of nuclear war Pakistan is reportedly going to test its Ghaznavi surface-to-surface missile from a flight test range in Balochistan.

The test will be tracked at the national development complex ground control station in Sindh.

These tests are a last-ditch effort from Pakistan to try and internationalise Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks.

Now Pakistan had closed its airspace for the period from August twenty-eight to August thirty-first, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken.

The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests.

Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile.

Reports also indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August twenty-sixth, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005.

According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests, three days before the actual testing.

The Indian government, however, seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests.

The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action.

So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

Imran Khan is on a desperate mission to draw international attention to Kashmir, and to satisfy the jihadi elements within his own country. After failed diplomatic efforts, threats of nuclear war Pakistan is reportedly going to test its Ghaznavi surface-to-surface missile from a flight test range in Balochistan.

Imran Khan is on a desperate mission to draw international attention to Kashmir, and to satisfy the jihadi elements within his own country. After failed diplomatic efforts, threats of nuclear war Pakistan is reportedly going to test its Ghaznavi surface-to-surface missile from a flight test range in Balochistan. The test will be tracked at the national development complex ground control station in Sindh. These tests are a last-ditch effort from Pakistan to try and internationalise Kashmir — something it has failed to do multiple times over the last few weeks. Now Pakistan had closed its airspace for the period from August twenty-eight to August thirty-first, and now it seems clear as to why this decision was taken. The airspace closure was probably in light of the reported missile tests. Pakistan had issued a notice to airmen that the Sonmiani base in Balochistan has been activated and all ships were asked to steer clear due to an incoming missile. Reports also indicate that Pakistan had informed India about the missile tests on August twenty-sixth, keeping with the confidence-building measures adopted between the two countries in 2005. According to the agreement, both countries are supposed to inform each other about missile tests, three days before the actual testing. The Indian government, however, seems unperturbed by the possible missile tests. The tests have reportedly been attributed to the huge pressure on Imran Khan from anti-India elements within his country to take some sort of action. So the missile tests are nothing but a continuation of the Pakistan government's false call for help.

After failed diplomatic efforts and nuke threats Pakistan to test ballistic missile

Pakistan Quotes Rahul Gandhi's Comments On Kashmir In A Letter To United Nations. Rahul Gandhi Gives A Rebuttal

Gravitas: Pakistan quote Rahul Gandhi in letter to UN

Ever since the Union government decided to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and to divide the state into two Union territories – Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh, all efforts have been made to restore full normalcy in Kashmir.&nbsp;

In turn, no major incident of mass protest or loss of life and property has so far been reported in the Valley. However, China and Pakistan have unsuccessfully tried to internationalise the issue.

True, Kashmir has been a major bone of contention between India and Pakistan since the Partition. But it is also a fact that the erstwhile state, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has been an undisputed part of India since 1947 when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession, following the attack by Pakistan-sponsored tribesman.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the purpose of inserting temporary Articles 370 and 35 (A) was to expedite the process of integration of the state with the rest of India.&nbsp;

Sadly, over the last 70 years, these provisions, coupled with vested interests of regional political parties and separatist groups, the era of coalition politics and the Congress party’s half-hearted approach to address the Kashmir problem, have chocked developmental activities in Jammu &amp; Kashmir.&nbsp;

While the Modi government’s decision has received overwhelming support in Parliament and outside, Pakistan is trying hard to project an alarming picture of Kashmir before the international community.&nbsp;

In doing so, the Imran Khan government has downgraded diplomatic ties with India by expelling Ajay Bisaria, India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan. Islamabad has also stopped bilateral trade and the Samjhauta Express, among other unilateral steps. &nbsp;

However, the fact remains that the international community’s reaction to the recent changes concerning Jammu &amp; Kashmir has largely been in India’s favour.&nbsp;

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, refused to intervene in the Kashmir matter, invoking the Shimla Agreement of 1972 that does not allow third-party mediation in this issue.&nbsp;

Russia has also endorsed the Modi government’s move, saying the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal affair of India. The US has said that both India and Pakistan should maintain restraint and hold direct talks to resolve the Kashmir issue while South Asian countries, including Bangladesh and Maldives, have backed India.&nbsp;

In a surprise development, the Taliban strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the increased tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi with the situation in Afghanistan. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahed said, “The issue of Afghanistan is not related to Kashmir,” and urged India and Pakistan not to turn Afghanistan into the “theatre of competition between other countries.”&nbsp;

The Taliban’s statement is very important for India: First, it shows the outfit’s desire to hold talks with New Delhi and second, the Taliban does not want to be seen as a puppet of Pakistan.&nbsp;

This, in turn, will help India protect its interests in Afghanistan, given the fact that over the years, New Delhi has invested over $3 billion in development activities in this country.&nbsp;

China is the only major country that has criticised India’s recent decision concerning Jammu &amp; Kashmir. The reason for China’s criticism emerges from the fact that it enjoys a close relationship with Pakistan. Additionally, the Union territory of Ladakh also includes Aksai Chin, which is currently under China’s control.&nbsp;

In turn, India has re-emphasised its claim over this area. New Delhi would also be in a better position to effectively deal with any Pakistani and Chinese design, especially since the CPEC passes through this region.&nbsp;

With the Security Council refusing to interfere in the Kashmir issue, efforts towards accelerating development activities and strengthening democratic institutions should be a major priority for the government.

It will ensure that the people of Kashmir do not again fall into the trap of separatist groups and other vested interests in the Valley.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-time-to-open-line-with-taliban-to-safeguard-afghan-interests-2785722">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;

Ever since the Union government decided to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and to divide the state into two Union territories – Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, all efforts have been made to restore full normalcy in Kashmir.

Ever since the Union government decided to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and to divide the state into two Union territories – Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, all efforts have been made to restore full normalcy in Kashmir. In turn, no major incident of mass protest or loss of life and property has so far been reported in the Valley. However, China and Pakistan have unsuccessfully tried to internationalise the issue. True, Kashmir has been a major bone of contention between India and Pakistan since the Partition. But it is also a fact that the erstwhile state, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has been an undisputed part of India since 1947 when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession, following the attack by Pakistan-sponsored tribesman. Subsequently, the purpose of inserting temporary Articles 370 and 35 (A) was to expedite the process of integration of the state with the rest of India. Sadly, over the last 70 years, these provisions, coupled with vested interests of regional political parties and separatist groups, the era of coalition politics and the Congress party’s half-hearted approach to address the Kashmir problem, have chocked developmental activities in Jammu & Kashmir. While the Modi government’s decision has received overwhelming support in Parliament and outside, Pakistan is trying hard to project an alarming picture of Kashmir before the international community. In doing so, the Imran Khan government has downgraded diplomatic ties with India by expelling Ajay Bisaria, India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan. Islamabad has also stopped bilateral trade and the Samjhauta Express, among other unilateral steps. However, the fact remains that the international community’s reaction to the recent changes concerning Jammu & Kashmir has largely been in India’s favour. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, refused to intervene in the Kashmir matter, invoking the Shimla Agreement of 1972 that does not allow third-party mediation in this issue. Russia has also endorsed the Modi government’s move, saying the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal affair of India. The US has said that both India and Pakistan should maintain restraint and hold direct talks to resolve the Kashmir issue while South Asian countries, including Bangladesh and Maldives, have backed India. In a surprise development, the Taliban strongly criticised Pakistan for linking the increased tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi with the situation in Afghanistan. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahed said, “The issue of Afghanistan is not related to Kashmir,” and urged India and Pakistan not to turn Afghanistan into the “theatre of competition between other countries.” The Taliban’s statement is very important for India: First, it shows the outfit’s desire to hold talks with New Delhi and second, the Taliban does not want to be seen as a puppet of Pakistan. This, in turn, will help India protect its interests in Afghanistan, given the fact that over the years, New Delhi has invested over $3 billion in development activities in this country. China is the only major country that has criticised India’s recent decision concerning Jammu & Kashmir. The reason for China’s criticism emerges from the fact that it enjoys a close relationship with Pakistan. Additionally, the Union territory of Ladakh also includes Aksai Chin, which is currently under China’s control. In turn, India has re-emphasised its claim over this area. New Delhi would also be in a better position to effectively deal with any Pakistani and Chinese design, especially since the CPEC passes through this region. With the Security Council refusing to interfere in the Kashmir issue, efforts towards accelerating development activities and strengthening democratic institutions should be a major priority for the government. It will ensure that the people of Kashmir do not again fall into the trap of separatist groups and other vested interests in the Valley. (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.)

Taliban’s statement on Jammu and Kashmir is very important for India

Russia on Wednesday supported India on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-abrogation-supreme-court-review-petitions-in-october-notice-sent-to-centre-246156">abrogation of Article 370</a> in Jammu and Kashmir and called it a sovereign and internal matter.&nbsp;

Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev stated that the abrogation is a sovereign decision of the Indian Government.&nbsp;

"All matters between India and Pakistan can be resolved through the Simla agreement. It is an internal matter of India," he said.&nbsp;

Deputy Ambassador Roman Bushkin said, "it is the concern of the international community of growing importance of disarmament".

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Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev, speaking to reporters in Delhi, today reiterated Moscow's stance on Kashmir &amp; said abrogation of article 370 is India's internal matter
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1166595736735236097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Calling India a "responsible player," Bushkin said any escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan is a concern.&nbsp;

"We would prefer more dialogue between the two nations. India has no first use doctrine. Dialogue must be streamlined as per the mutually accepted condition," Bushkin added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday heard petitions challenging Central government’s decision to&nbsp;abrogate Article 370&nbsp;and referred the matter to a 5-judge constitution bench. The matter has now been posted for review in October.&nbsp;

The top court has also issued notices to the Centre and state seeking their response on the issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over 10 petitions were filed in the top court related to the recent developments in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Russia on Wednesday supported India on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and called it a sovereign and internal matter. Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev stated that the abrogation is a sovereign decision of the Indian Government.

Russia on Wednesday supported India on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and called it a sovereign and internal matter. Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev stated that the abrogation is a sovereign decision of the Indian Government. "All matters between India and Pakistan can be resolved through the Simla agreement. It is an internal matter of India," he said. Deputy Ambassador Roman Bushkin said, "it is the concern of the international community of growing importance of disarmament". Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev, speaking to reporters in Delhi, today reiterated Moscow's stance on Kashmir & said abrogation of article 370 is India's internal matter — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 28, 2019 × Calling India a "responsible player," Bushkin said any escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan is a concern. "We would prefer more dialogue between the two nations. India has no first use doctrine. Dialogue must be streamlined as per the mutually accepted condition," Bushkin added. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday heard petitions challenging Central government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and referred the matter to a 5-judge constitution bench. The matter has now been posted for review in October. The top court has also issued notices to the Centre and state seeking their response on the issue. Over 10 petitions were filed in the top court related to the recent developments in the Kashmir Valley.

Article 370 abrogation: Russia supports India, says 'matter should be resolved through Simla accord'

On Gravitas at 9 pm, Palki Sharma analyses why Brazil rejected aid to save the Amazon and Indonesia's attempt to build a new capital city.

Gravitas: Pakistan hatches nefarious plots over India's Kashmir decision

Dangerous Steps Taken By Pakistan To Disrupt Peace In Kashmir.

Gravitas: Pakistan's Nefarious Plots Exposed

Jaishankar Briefs Lavrov on Kashmir Decisions.

Sidhant Sibal on Russia Supports India on Kashmir

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Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for redrawing the Indian map which shows not only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-has-been-changing-demography-of-pok-gilgit-baltistan-activists-240014">Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK)</a> as its territory but also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gilgit-baltistan-in-open-letter-says-pakistan-only-an-assumed-supervisor-236089">Gilgit-Baltistan</a>.

"When we speak of our boundaries, they are not our boundaries. We have boundaries far beyond them. I say when we redraw Indian map, we should include not just PoK but also Gilgit-Baltistan," he said during an event in Delhi.

Listing out schemes and infrastructure projects implemented by the Centre in the border villages of Jammu and Kashmir, the minister said that he would want to bring in people of 'opposite ideology' and debate with them.

"It is a matter of research why these people curse the Army that protects them. Today, we are in a position to question them... Why should we waste our resources on protection of those who are enemies of the nation," asked Singh.

Giving a blueprint of how to ensure that local residents of the border areas who are considered the first line of defence stay intact, RSS Sah Sarkaryavah Krishna Gopal said the onus of this lies on those living in the cities.

"The onus to ensure that the first line of defence of boundaries -- the locals -- remain intact lies on the rest of India. You need to ensure you visit them and provide your services. The government cannot do it alone," said the senior RSS functionary.

The RSS is rooting for a strong bond with the bordering regions of the country, asking citizens to visit these areas regularly and be vigilant as the government alone cannot be tasked with protecting national sovereignty.

Gopal said the people from the rest of the country need to provide their services to them even if they do not ask for. "Treat these 11,000 villages as pilgrimages, donate and serve, they will be yours," he said.
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Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for redrawing the Indian map which shows not only Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as its territory but also Gilgit-Baltistan.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for redrawing the Indian map which shows not only Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as its territory but also Gilgit-Baltistan. "When we speak of our boundaries, they are not our boundaries. We have boundaries far beyond them. I say when we redraw Indian map, we should include not just PoK but also Gilgit-Baltistan," he said during an event in Delhi. Listing out schemes and infrastructure projects implemented by the Centre in the border villages of Jammu and Kashmir, the minister said that he would want to bring in people of 'opposite ideology' and debate with them. "It is a matter of research why these people curse the Army that protects them. Today, we are in a position to question them... Why should we waste our resources on protection of those who are enemies of the nation," asked Singh. Giving a blueprint of how to ensure that local residents of the border areas who are considered the first line of defence stay intact, RSS Sah Sarkaryavah Krishna Gopal said the onus of this lies on those living in the cities. "The onus to ensure that the first line of defence of boundaries -- the locals -- remain intact lies on the rest of India. You need to ensure you visit them and provide your services. The government cannot do it alone," said the senior RSS functionary. The RSS is rooting for a strong bond with the bordering regions of the country, asking citizens to visit these areas regularly and be vigilant as the government alone cannot be tasked with protecting national sovereignty. Gopal said the people from the rest of the country need to provide their services to them even if they do not ask for. "Treat these 11,000 villages as pilgrimages, donate and serve, they will be yours," he said.

Redraw Indian map with PoK, Gilgit-Baltistan: Union Minister Jitendra Singh

Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Maleeha Lodhi, on Monday met President of United National General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-have-succeeded-in-internationalising-the-issue-of-kashmir-claims-imran-in-national-address-245851">discussed the Kashmir issue</a>, reported Express Tribune.

This comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in France and conveyed to him that revoking Article 370 was India's internal matter and no step has been taken by New Delhi that in any manner threatens regional peace.

Lodhi's meeting is yet another attempt at flogging a dead horse by Islamabad as the country has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue India has categorically apprised Pakistan that revoking of the article, which left the neighbour rattled, is an "internal matter".&nbsp;

Following the Indian decision, Pakistan had sent its foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to China to seek its help at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), urging for an emergency meeting on the issue.&nbsp;

However, four out of five permanent members in the United Nations did not support Pakistan's contentions over India's decision.

Cash-strapped Pakistan has also alleged that India's decision of revoking the provisions under Article 370 will not only threaten the regional peace but also the world peace and further downgraded its diplomatic ties with its neighbour and suspended bilateral trade in the wake of it.

Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi's internal matter.

Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Maleeha Lodhi, on Monday met President of United National General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa and discussed the Kashmir issue, reported Express Tribune.

Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Maleeha Lodhi, on Monday met President of United National General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa and discussed the Kashmir issue, reported Express Tribune. This comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in France and conveyed to him that revoking Article 370 was India's internal matter and no step has been taken by New Delhi that in any manner threatens regional peace. Lodhi's meeting is yet another attempt at flogging a dead horse by Islamabad as the country has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue India has categorically apprised Pakistan that revoking of the article, which left the neighbour rattled, is an "internal matter". Following the Indian decision, Pakistan had sent its foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to China to seek its help at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), urging for an emergency meeting on the issue. However, four out of five permanent members in the United Nations did not support Pakistan's contentions over India's decision. Cash-strapped Pakistan has also alleged that India's decision of revoking the provisions under Article 370 will not only threaten the regional peace but also the world peace and further downgraded its diplomatic ties with its neighbour and suspended bilateral trade in the wake of it. Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi's internal matter.

Pakistan envoy to United Nations meets UNGA President, discusses Kashmir issue

In a meet with Indian PM Modi, U.S President Donald Trump said that it would be best if the Kashmir issue is resolved bilaterally.

Trump changes tune on Kashmir issue

Will China 'Go To Any Extent' To Support Pakistan In The Kashmir Issue?

WION EDIT: How far will China go to back Pakistan?

Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have accused<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-envoy-to-pakistan-to-reach-new-delhi-today-after-expelled-by-islamabad-242051"> Islamabad</a> of spreading terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir with no regard for the locals.

They said that Islamabad is only using religion as a tool to nurture and proliferate terrorism which has deeply hurt the interests and ambitions of Kashmiris.

Nasir Aziz Khan, a political activist from PoK and spokesperson of United Kashmir People's National Party said, "When militancy set its foot in Kashmir in the 1990s, we, the United Kashmir People`s National Party (UKPNP) had appealed and informed to all that Pakistan never had Kashmiri welfare in mind and was using them in their proxy war against India".

"But the people, who had distorted notions in their mind and continue to have the same beliefs even today, went ahead and embraced militancy shouting slogans of 'Al-Jihad' and 'Al Qatar'," he added.

"Kashmir is a multi-cultural and multi-religious state and providing support to one particular religion has only consolidated the divisive mindset and fanning the flames on minor communal incidents clearly means that you don't have any sympathy for the people of the region and you don`t want to see them united", said Nasir.

Several terror organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen, which are now amongst the most dreaded terrorist groups, were floated in the 80s in the name of Kashmiri welfare.

But, their agenda is well exposed. Locals say that their movement was crippled by such organisations as Kashmiris were dubbed internationally as terrorists and the region became infamous due to this only.

Sardar Sagir Khan, a leader of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supports-terrorism-for-creating-turmoil-in-jammu-and-kashmir-pok-activist-245257">Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF)</a> in Rawalakot said, "We have, for years, been saying that Pakistan`s intelligence agencies have been sabotaging our movement by smuggling non-state actors into our territory. People perceive our movement as terrorism. We have not been given any importance".

&nbsp;"Our movement has been left behind by the things that panned out after 9/11. Our sacrifices are wasted. We were protesting then and we are still protesting," he added.

Nisar Shah, a lawyer and activist of Jammu Kashmir People`s National Alliance (JKPNA) said, "The nation which has been raising a slogan "Kashmir Banega Pakistan" (Kashmir will become Pakistan) and holding its own flag, is the one which is responsible for the killing of 90,000 Kashmiri people in the name of jihad".

Pakistan continues to hold a significant portion of Kashmir under its control and it has been meting out a novercal treatment to the people living here.

They are deprived of fundamental rights and are not given services and facilities at par with the people in the other parts of the region.

They do not have any representation in the parliament and their pleas and demands are not rendered any attention.&nbsp;

They are not eligible for even key posts in the region.

The ruling dispensation, which had promised of undoing the wrong done with Kashmir, has not just been ineffective but has stepped up cruelty to a newer level, which has induced unprecedented plights for the people. 
&nbsp;

Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have accused Islamabad of spreading terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir with no regard for the locals. They said that Islamabad is only using religion as a tool to nurture and proliferate terrorism which has deeply hurt the interests and ambitions of Kashmiris.

Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have accused Islamabad of spreading terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir with no regard for the locals. They said that Islamabad is only using religion as a tool to nurture and proliferate terrorism which has deeply hurt the interests and ambitions of Kashmiris. Nasir Aziz Khan, a political activist from PoK and spokesperson of United Kashmir People's National Party said, "When militancy set its foot in Kashmir in the 1990s, we, the United Kashmir People`s National Party (UKPNP) had appealed and informed to all that Pakistan never had Kashmiri welfare in mind and was using them in their proxy war against India". "But the people, who had distorted notions in their mind and continue to have the same beliefs even today, went ahead and embraced militancy shouting slogans of 'Al-Jihad' and 'Al Qatar'," he added. "Kashmir is a multi-cultural and multi-religious state and providing support to one particular religion has only consolidated the divisive mindset and fanning the flames on minor communal incidents clearly means that you don't have any sympathy for the people of the region and you don`t want to see them united", said Nasir. Several terror organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen, which are now amongst the most dreaded terrorist groups, were floated in the 80s in the name of Kashmiri welfare. But, their agenda is well exposed. Locals say that their movement was crippled by such organisations as Kashmiris were dubbed internationally as terrorists and the region became infamous due to this only. Sardar Sagir Khan, a leader of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) in Rawalakot said, "We have, for years, been saying that Pakistan`s intelligence agencies have been sabotaging our movement by smuggling non-state actors into our territory. People perceive our movement as terrorism. We have not been given any importance". "Our movement has been left behind by the things that panned out after 9/11. Our sacrifices are wasted. We were protesting then and we are still protesting," he added. Nisar Shah, a lawyer and activist of Jammu Kashmir People`s National Alliance (JKPNA) said, "The nation which has been raising a slogan "Kashmir Banega Pakistan" (Kashmir will become Pakistan) and holding its own flag, is the one which is responsible for the killing of 90,000 Kashmiri people in the name of jihad". Pakistan continues to hold a significant portion of Kashmir under its control and it has been meting out a novercal treatment to the people living here. They are deprived of fundamental rights and are not given services and facilities at par with the people in the other parts of the region. They do not have any representation in the parliament and their pleas and demands are not rendered any attention. They are not eligible for even key posts in the region. The ruling dispensation, which had promised of undoing the wrong done with Kashmir, has not just been ineffective but has stepped up cruelty to a newer level, which has induced unprecedented plights for the people.

Pakistan using terror, religion as tools to mislead Kashmiris: Activists

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has admitted to the failure of his country's stance on Kashmir and its diplomacy, stated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-turns-into-nightmare-for-minorities-nadeem-nusrat-159052">Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat</a> on Monday.

"Imran Khan is not more than a puppet of Pakistan's military establishment who talks at the behest of his masters in GHQ (Pakistan Army Headquarter). Pakistani premier admits that Pakistan has been isolated at the international stage by saying that if some of the Muslim countries are not with us (Pakistan) today due to economic or other reasons, they will be with us in the future," Nusrat said in a press statement.

The Voice of Karachi Chairman further said that Kashmir has been at the forefront of Pakistan's foreign policy since its inception.

"The military establishment of Pakistan and its notorious intelligence agency ISI spent billions of rupees from the national exchequer to create militant organisations, Kashmir committees, and Kashmir Desks in their embassies in the name of Kashmir's freedom struggle. The failed domestic and foreign policies of Pakistan headed by the military establishment have turned the country into a chaos-like situation," he said.

Nusrat categorically rejected Imran Khan`s claim that it was his government's policy to have peaceful relations with other countries, including India and Afghanistan.

He said that the reality is that the terror outfits involved in deadly attacks in Afghanistan and India are enjoying impunity under the present government of Imran Khan.

&nbsp;"The sincerity of Pakistan to have peace with its neighbours can be measured with no change seen in using terror as a tool of its foreign policy and strategic depth in the region," he added.

The Mohajir leader outlined the plight of the minorities in Pakistan including the Mohajirs, Baloch, Pashtun and people of Gilgit Baltistan.

The VoK chairman added that Islamabad has been "violating the basic rights of its ethnic and religious minorities, the superior judiciary has become the tool of military establishment and violation of the constitution by Army generals is a normal routine in the country.

"There are over a hundred million Mohajirs, Balochs, Pashtuns and other ethnic entities who are facing near-genocide at the hands of Pakistani security forces whose majority hails from the country`s Punjab Province only," the statement said.

The VoK leader claimed that both Karachi and Mohajirs have been deprived of even the fundamental rights by successive civilian and military governments.

"Pakistan has also systematically disenfranchised Karachi's population through blatant gerrymandering and manipulation in census figures, leaving Karachi with negligible presence in the national and provincial legislatures," he said.

"Those who stand up to this inhuman treatment become the victim of unlawful arrests, brutal torture in custody, enforced disappearances, and even extrajudicial executions. Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated security forces have extrajudicially killed over 25,000 Mohajirs since 1992 in Karachi and other Mohajir-majority cities in Pakistan`s Sindh Province," the statement also said.

The horrific state of human rights in Pakistan's largest and most resourceful province, Balochistan, is another source of concern where ethnic Balochs have been demanding greater control over their province`s land and resources.

"The state authorities have responded to this demand by carrying out a brutal military operation that very often uses American-supplied F-16 jet fighters. As per accounts of some local Baloch human rights organizations, Pakistani security forces have killed tens of thousands of Balochs in the last few years, and even more, have become the victim of enforced disappearances," the statement said.

"Another sensitive geostrategic region in South Asia is Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province which shares around 1,500 miles-long border with Afghanistan. Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistani military establishment has turned the KP province into a haven for almost every extremist Islamist group in the world. Pakistani intelligence officials and religious clerics have recruited and trained hundreds of thousands of young Pashtuns from this impoverished region in the last few decades and shipped them to wage jihad in almost every part of the world. The Taliban was also conceived in a religious seminary in KP," the statement pointed out.

The KP Province has been facing a brutal military crackdown for years, which has left millions of people displaced, Nusrat added.

&nbsp;Those indigenous secular forces who have dared to stand up to Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated military are facing unlawful imprisonment, false charges, and enforced disappearances, he said.

The disputed territories of Gilgit and Baltistan are facing similar levels of persecution where the Pakistani military officials are trying to change the demography by turning the indigenous population into a minority.

Those standing up to this tyranny face enforced disappearances or unlawful imprisonment," the statement said.

"Siege and search operations, unlawful arrests, denial of the universal right of due process, curb on media, freedom of expression and association, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial executions are a routine in Karachi, Balochistan, KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Persistent denial of human rights in all these territories is brewing a profound sense of deprivation which could turn into a serious law and order crisis," the statement also read.

"The world must ask every Pakistani leader raising Kashmir issue: Is Pakistan willing to stop its state-sponsored terrorism against non-Punjabi ethnic groups and grant them greater autonomy? Until Pakistan treats its own religious and ethnic entities with dignity and rights they ethically and lawfully deserve, it has no moral ground to plead the Kashmir issue anywhere in the world," the VoK chairman reiterated.

The Mohajir leader further said that the world community must take serious notice of the continuous threats of nuclear war coming from Pakistan's civilian and military leadership.

The immature statements and warmongering would further escalate the tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

He said that both India and Pakistan should start the dialogue process without any delay to resolve all the outstanding issues between the two countries.

"Kashmir, however, is not the only burning issue in the region. Without resolving the longstanding grievances non-Punjabi ethnic groups are facing in Pakistan, peace, and stability will remain an elusive goal in South Asia," Nusrat said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has admitted to the failure of his country's stance on Kashmir and its diplomacy, stated Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat on Monday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has admitted to the failure of his country's stance on Kashmir and its diplomacy, stated Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat on Monday. "Imran Khan is not more than a puppet of Pakistan's military establishment who talks at the behest of his masters in GHQ (Pakistan Army Headquarter). Pakistani premier admits that Pakistan has been isolated at the international stage by saying that if some of the Muslim countries are not with us (Pakistan) today due to economic or other reasons, they will be with us in the future," Nusrat said in a press statement. The Voice of Karachi Chairman further said that Kashmir has been at the forefront of Pakistan's foreign policy since its inception. "The military establishment of Pakistan and its notorious intelligence agency ISI spent billions of rupees from the national exchequer to create militant organisations, Kashmir committees, and Kashmir Desks in their embassies in the name of Kashmir's freedom struggle. The failed domestic and foreign policies of Pakistan headed by the military establishment have turned the country into a chaos-like situation," he said. Nusrat categorically rejected Imran Khan`s claim that it was his government's policy to have peaceful relations with other countries, including India and Afghanistan. He said that the reality is that the terror outfits involved in deadly attacks in Afghanistan and India are enjoying impunity under the present government of Imran Khan. "The sincerity of Pakistan to have peace with its neighbours can be measured with no change seen in using terror as a tool of its foreign policy and strategic depth in the region," he added. The Mohajir leader outlined the plight of the minorities in Pakistan including the Mohajirs, Baloch, Pashtun and people of Gilgit Baltistan. The VoK chairman added that Islamabad has been "violating the basic rights of its ethnic and religious minorities, the superior judiciary has become the tool of military establishment and violation of the constitution by Army generals is a normal routine in the country. "There are over a hundred million Mohajirs, Balochs, Pashtuns and other ethnic entities who are facing near-genocide at the hands of Pakistani security forces whose majority hails from the country`s Punjab Province only," the statement said. The VoK leader claimed that both Karachi and Mohajirs have been deprived of even the fundamental rights by successive civilian and military governments. "Pakistan has also systematically disenfranchised Karachi's population through blatant gerrymandering and manipulation in census figures, leaving Karachi with negligible presence in the national and provincial legislatures," he said. "Those who stand up to this inhuman treatment become the victim of unlawful arrests, brutal torture in custody, enforced disappearances, and even extrajudicial executions. Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated security forces have extrajudicially killed over 25,000 Mohajirs since 1992 in Karachi and other Mohajir-majority cities in Pakistan`s Sindh Province," the statement also said. The horrific state of human rights in Pakistan's largest and most resourceful province, Balochistan, is another source of concern where ethnic Balochs have been demanding greater control over their province`s land and resources. "The state authorities have responded to this demand by carrying out a brutal military operation that very often uses American-supplied F-16 jet fighters. As per accounts of some local Baloch human rights organizations, Pakistani security forces have killed tens of thousands of Balochs in the last few years, and even more, have become the victim of enforced disappearances," the statement said. "Another sensitive geostrategic region in South Asia is Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province which shares around 1,500 miles-long border with Afghanistan. Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistani military establishment has turned the KP province into a haven for almost every extremist Islamist group in the world. Pakistani intelligence officials and religious clerics have recruited and trained hundreds of thousands of young Pashtuns from this impoverished region in the last few decades and shipped them to wage jihad in almost every part of the world. The Taliban was also conceived in a religious seminary in KP," the statement pointed out. The KP Province has been facing a brutal military crackdown for years, which has left millions of people displaced, Nusrat added. Those indigenous secular forces who have dared to stand up to Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated military are facing unlawful imprisonment, false charges, and enforced disappearances, he said. The disputed territories of Gilgit and Baltistan are facing similar levels of persecution where the Pakistani military officials are trying to change the demography by turning the indigenous population into a minority. Those standing up to this tyranny face enforced disappearances or unlawful imprisonment," the statement said. "Siege and search operations, unlawful arrests, denial of the universal right of due process, curb on media, freedom of expression and association, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial executions are a routine in Karachi, Balochistan, KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Persistent denial of human rights in all these territories is brewing a profound sense of deprivation which could turn into a serious law and order crisis," the statement also read. "The world must ask every Pakistani leader raising Kashmir issue: Is Pakistan willing to stop its state-sponsored terrorism against non-Punjabi ethnic groups and grant them greater autonomy? Until Pakistan treats its own religious and ethnic entities with dignity and rights they ethically and lawfully deserve, it has no moral ground to plead the Kashmir issue anywhere in the world," the VoK chairman reiterated. The Mohajir leader further said that the world community must take serious notice of the continuous threats of nuclear war coming from Pakistan's civilian and military leadership. The immature statements and warmongering would further escalate the tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. He said that both India and Pakistan should start the dialogue process without any delay to resolve all the outstanding issues between the two countries. "Kashmir, however, is not the only burning issue in the region. Without resolving the longstanding grievances non-Punjabi ethnic groups are facing in Pakistan, peace, and stability will remain an elusive goal in South Asia," Nusrat said.

Pakistan isolation on Kashmir a huge setback to its foreign policy: Nadeem Nusrat

Dangerous Comments From Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Address To Nation On Kashmir

Gravitas: Imran Khan threatens nuclear war, again

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> on Monday night briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman about Kashmir issue over a phone call, reported ARY News.

It was the third time the two leaders talked to discuss regional developments since India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Previously, Khan had called MBS and discussed the issue last week. Pakistan has been rattled by the Indian government's move to strip the special status to Jammu and Kashmir and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter.

The Pakistan government has downgraded bilateral ties with India in the wake of the decision and said it will consider all steps to counter what it described "illegal steps" taken by New Delhi.

Two days after New Delhi revoked the Article, Khan had "briefed" the Saudi prince.

"During the call, they discussed the development of the situation in the region and efforts exerted towards it," the official Saudi Press Agency(SPA), the agency had reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday night briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman about Kashmir issue over a phone call, reported ARY News. It was the third time the two leaders talked to discuss regional developments since India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday night briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman about Kashmir issue over a phone call, reported ARY News. It was the third time the two leaders talked to discuss regional developments since India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Previously, Khan had called MBS and discussed the issue last week. Pakistan has been rattled by the Indian government's move to strip the special status to Jammu and Kashmir and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter. The Pakistan government has downgraded bilateral ties with India in the wake of the decision and said it will consider all steps to counter what it described "illegal steps" taken by New Delhi. Two days after New Delhi revoked the Article, Khan had "briefed" the Saudi prince. "During the call, they discussed the development of the situation in the region and efforts exerted towards it," the official Saudi Press Agency(SPA), the agency had reported.

Imran Khan, Saudi Crown Prince discuss Kashmir issue third time

Rameshwar Teli, minister of state (MoS) for food processing and industries on Tuesday said that government will provide 75 per cent subsidy to the those interested in setting up Mega Food Park in Jammu and Kashmir.

Outlining that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-abrogation-of-article-370-key-implications-240936">abrogation of Article 370 </a>has paved way for establishment of food parks in Jammu and Kashmir, Teli said that companies will now look forward to setting up big food industries in the valley.

"Our budget is of Rs 1,400 Crore and our department will provide maximum aid to set up a mega food park in Jammu and Kashmir. The government will provide 75 per cent subsidy if any state government or entrepreneur sets up a mega food park in the region. We hope that farmers will also take advantage of the schemes of our department. We also want no food produced in Jammu and Kashmir should be wasted," said Teli while addressing the reporters.

Teli further announced that his department will be holding a roadshow in the state to spread awareness about government schemes.

"Similarly, we will be conducting a roadshow in Nagaland tomorrow in order to promote our schemes and spread awareness among the farmers over there. This show would also spread awareness about wastage of food there," Teli added.

According to Teli, many local entrepreneurs had turned up at his office in order to set up a food park in Jammu and Kashmir.

"The major problem to set up a mega food park is that it requires at least 50 acres of land but in a region and terrain like this, it is difficult to get such a big piece of land. So, we are trying that we should start by setting up mini food parks in about 20-21 acres of land," said Teli.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rameshwar Teli, minister of state (MoS) for food processing and industries on Tuesday said that government will provide 75 per cent subsidy to the those interested in setting up Mega Food Park in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rameshwar Teli, minister of state (MoS) for food processing and industries on Tuesday said that government will provide 75 per cent subsidy to the those interested in setting up Mega Food Park in Jammu and Kashmir. Outlining that abrogation of Article 370 has paved way for establishment of food parks in Jammu and Kashmir, Teli said that companies will now look forward to setting up big food industries in the valley. "Our budget is of Rs 1,400 Crore and our department will provide maximum aid to set up a mega food park in Jammu and Kashmir. The government will provide 75 per cent subsidy if any state government or entrepreneur sets up a mega food park in the region. We hope that farmers will also take advantage of the schemes of our department. We also want no food produced in Jammu and Kashmir should be wasted," said Teli while addressing the reporters. Teli further announced that his department will be holding a roadshow in the state to spread awareness about government schemes. "Similarly, we will be conducting a roadshow in Nagaland tomorrow in order to promote our schemes and spread awareness among the farmers over there. This show would also spread awareness about wastage of food there," Teli added. According to Teli, many local entrepreneurs had turned up at his office in order to set up a food park in Jammu and Kashmir. "The major problem to set up a mega food park is that it requires at least 50 acres of land but in a region and terrain like this, it is difficult to get such a big piece of land. So, we are trying that we should start by setting up mini food parks in about 20-21 acres of land," said Teli.

Government to provide 75% subsidy for setting mega food parks in Jammu and Kashmir: MoS Rameshwar Teli

PM Narendra Modi said that the Kashmir issue should be handled bilaterally at G7 Summit.

PM Modi makes position on Kashmir clear; says Kashmir issue should be handled bilaterally

A political activist has lambasted Pakistan for creating turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir for decades by using terrorism as a tool to set its agenda.

Sardar Saghir, a leader of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) told Tanveer Ahmad, a local journalist, that Pakistan has been using terrorists as proxies to create instability in Jammu and Kashmir.

"The indigenous movement of Kashmir`s liberation was sabotaged in 1947 (by Pakistan) by sending Pashtun tribal forces in the region. In the late 1980s, when the people of Jammu and Kashmir launched another movement, it was highjacked (by Pakistan) in 1989 by forming terror groups such as Hizbul Mujahideen and Jamiat-ul-Mujahideen," Saghir said.

"Later, Hafiz Saeed`s Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) was also brought in. In 1992-93, we condemned these non-state actors, which were brought in by Pakistan`s spy agencies. It has sabotaged our peaceful struggle. The world community is now looking it as an act of terrorism," he added.

Saghir is one of the vocal activists in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), where people are suffering from persecution and terrorism.

"After the 9/11 incident, strict measures were taken against terrorism and our peaceful struggle was backtracked. However, we continued to protest. When Pakistan was pressurised by the international community then besides LeT, they further started promoting Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) headed by Maulana Masood Azhar."

Recently, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan confessed that about 30,000-40,000 terrorists have been trained in some parts of Afghanistan and Kashmir.

The activist added that Pakistan has been using PoK`s territory as a launchpad for terrorists to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir.

"Now, JeM terrorists are getting trained at a very large scale to infiltrate into India. The world attention was towards the Kashmir valley, but Pakistan`s intelligence agencies have diverted it deliberately. These militants are infiltrating, getting killed and will be killed in future," he said.&nbsp;

A political activist has lambasted Pakistan for creating turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir for decades by using terrorism as a tool to set its agenda. Sardar Saghir, a leader of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) told Tanveer Ahmad, a local journalist, that Pakistan has been using terrorists as proxies to create instability in Jammu and Kashmir.

A political activist has lambasted Pakistan for creating turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir for decades by using terrorism as a tool to set its agenda. Sardar Saghir, a leader of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) told Tanveer Ahmad, a local journalist, that Pakistan has been using terrorists as proxies to create instability in Jammu and Kashmir. "The indigenous movement of Kashmir`s liberation was sabotaged in 1947 (by Pakistan) by sending Pashtun tribal forces in the region. In the late 1980s, when the people of Jammu and Kashmir launched another movement, it was highjacked (by Pakistan) in 1989 by forming terror groups such as Hizbul Mujahideen and Jamiat-ul-Mujahideen," Saghir said. "Later, Hafiz Saeed`s Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) was also brought in. In 1992-93, we condemned these non-state actors, which were brought in by Pakistan`s spy agencies. It has sabotaged our peaceful struggle. The world community is now looking it as an act of terrorism," he added. Saghir is one of the vocal activists in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), where people are suffering from persecution and terrorism. "After the 9/11 incident, strict measures were taken against terrorism and our peaceful struggle was backtracked. However, we continued to protest. When Pakistan was pressurised by the international community then besides LeT, they further started promoting Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) headed by Maulana Masood Azhar." Recently, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan confessed that about 30,000-40,000 terrorists have been trained in some parts of Afghanistan and Kashmir. The activist added that Pakistan has been using PoK`s territory as a launchpad for terrorists to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir. "Now, JeM terrorists are getting trained at a very large scale to infiltrate into India. The world attention was towards the Kashmir valley, but Pakistan`s intelligence agencies have diverted it deliberately. These militants are infiltrating, getting killed and will be killed in future," he said.

Pakistan supports terrorism for creating turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir: PoK activist

India on Saturday said that 20 of the most prominent NRI businessmen have expressed their strong support for participating in the Jammu and Kashmir investors'&nbsp;summit scheduled to be held in October.

"20 of the most prominent NRI businessmen...expressed their strong support for participating in the Jammu and Kashmir invest event which is being planned, through investment and human resource development," Secretary (Economic Relations) in the External Affairs Ministry T S Tirumurti told reporters.

The three-day global investors'&nbsp;summit will be held for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir.

The event is scheduled to begin on October 12 in the presence of "dignitaries at the highest level" in Srinagar and conclude on October 14 in Jammu, the state's Principal Secretary (Commerce and Industry) NK Chaudhary had said.

Agriculture and horticulture, food processing, film industry, harvesting technology, tourism, IT, handloom and handicraft, healthcare and pharmaceuticals are among the core sectors on which the summit will be focused.

A large number of Union Ministers, representatives of state governments, central government secretaries will also be participating in the summit, the officer said.Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), which was set up earlier this year, will be the nodal agency for the event and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has been roped in as the national partner of the government.&nbsp;

India on Saturday said that 20 of the most prominent NRI businessmen have expressed their strong support for participating in the Jammu and Kashmir investors' summit scheduled to be held in October.

India on Saturday said that 20 of the most prominent NRI businessmen have expressed their strong support for participating in the Jammu and Kashmir investors' summit scheduled to be held in October. "20 of the most prominent NRI businessmen...expressed their strong support for participating in the Jammu and Kashmir invest event which is being planned, through investment and human resource development," Secretary (Economic Relations) in the External Affairs Ministry T S Tirumurti told reporters. The three-day global investors' summit will be held for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir. The event is scheduled to begin on October 12 in the presence of "dignitaries at the highest level" in Srinagar and conclude on October 14 in Jammu, the state's Principal Secretary (Commerce and Industry) NK Chaudhary had said. Agriculture and horticulture, food processing, film industry, harvesting technology, tourism, IT, handloom and handicraft, healthcare and pharmaceuticals are among the core sectors on which the summit will be focused. A large number of Union Ministers, representatives of state governments, central government secretaries will also be participating in the summit, the officer said.Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), which was set up earlier this year, will be the nodal agency for the event and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has been roped in as the national partner of the government.

20 NRI businessmen keen to participate in Jammu and Kashmir investment meet: India

As Pakistan is trying to rake up Kashmir globally, the country found itself sparring with the Maldives over statements made by the&nbsp;foreign ministers of both countries after a telephonic conversation.

On Friday, Pakistan's Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke to his Maldivian&nbsp;counterpart Abdullah Shahid during which Male made it clear that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/abrogation-of-article-370-indias-internal-decision-maldives-to-pakistan-245184">abrogation of article 370 was India's internal matter</a>.

A statement from Maldives foreign ministry stated Shahid saying that the "Maldives viewed the decision taken by India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter."

However, this was denied by Pakistan's foreign minister Qureshi during a press conference in Islamabad on Saturday.

In reply to WION's query, Pakistani foreign minister said, "during my conversation with Maldives foreign minister, there was no mention or talk about this."

Following Qureshi's statement, Maldives foreign ministry immediately reacted and said,&nbsp;"Ministry of Foreign Affairs' statement following the telephone conversation is very clear on our position."

The development comes as Sri Lankan President's office came out with a statement after Pakistan High Commission had wrongly attributed a statement on President&nbsp;Maithripala Sirisena&nbsp;and the Pakistani High Commissioner's meet.

The Pak High Commissioner to Sri Lanka on Tuesday met President Sirisena at the request of the former to brief him on India's internal decision on revoking Article 370.

A statement issued by Pakistan High Commission in Colombo said President Sirisena "offered Sri Lanka's mediation and facilitation of dialogue between Pakistan and India to re-activate the SAARC forum."

This was contradicted by Sri Lankan presidential office, which said, "President stated that both India and Pakistan have excellent friendly relations with Sri Lanka and its interest is to see the growth of regional cooperation and friendship", adding, "the president did not make any other comment on the issues pertaining to India and Pakistan."

India's neighbours in the region have backed New Delhi on its August 5 decision to repeal special status for erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

While Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives have called it an internal decision, Nepal and Afghanistan have called Kashmir a bilateral issue between New Delhi and Islamabad.&nbsp;

As Pakistan is trying to rake up Kashmir globally, the country found itself sparring with the Maldives over statements made by the foreign ministers of both countries after a telephonic conversation.

As Pakistan is trying to rake up Kashmir globally, the country found itself sparring with the Maldives over statements made by the foreign ministers of both countries after a telephonic conversation. On Friday, Pakistan's Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke to his Maldivian counterpart Abdullah Shahid during which Male made it clear that abrogation of article 370 was India's internal matter. A statement from Maldives foreign ministry stated Shahid saying that the "Maldives viewed the decision taken by India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter." However, this was denied by Pakistan's foreign minister Qureshi during a press conference in Islamabad on Saturday. In reply to WION's query, Pakistani foreign minister said, "during my conversation with Maldives foreign minister, there was no mention or talk about this." Following Qureshi's statement, Maldives foreign ministry immediately reacted and said, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs' statement following the telephone conversation is very clear on our position." The development comes as Sri Lankan President's office came out with a statement after Pakistan High Commission had wrongly attributed a statement on President Maithripala Sirisena and the Pakistani High Commissioner's meet. The Pak High Commissioner to Sri Lanka on Tuesday met President Sirisena at the request of the former to brief him on India's internal decision on revoking Article 370. A statement issued by Pakistan High Commission in Colombo said President Sirisena "offered Sri Lanka's mediation and facilitation of dialogue between Pakistan and India to re-activate the SAARC forum." This was contradicted by Sri Lankan presidential office, which said, "President stated that both India and Pakistan have excellent friendly relations with Sri Lanka and its interest is to see the growth of regional cooperation and friendship", adding, "the president did not make any other comment on the issues pertaining to India and Pakistan." India's neighbours in the region have backed New Delhi on its August 5 decision to repeal special status for erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives have called it an internal decision, Nepal and Afghanistan have called Kashmir a bilateral issue between New Delhi and Islamabad.

'No such talks took place,' says Qureshi as Pakistan, Maldives spar over Kashmir remarks

Pakistan continues lies despite being exposed.

Pakistan once again misquotes Maldives

Donald Trump has for the third time offered to mediate the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan. He even views the Kashmir dispute as a religious dispute between India and Pakistan. In the process, the U.S. President has ended up exposing his ignorance on the whole issue. Palki summarises Trump's bizarre Kashmir offer.

Gravitas: Trump offers to mediate the Kashmir dispute, again

Echoing India's stance that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between New Delhi and Islamabad, Sweden has urged both the South Asian nations to engage in a dialogue through diplomatic channels to resolve the matter.

Sweden's Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom made the remarks during a telephonic conversation with her Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Wednesday.

"Worrying situation in Jammu and Kashmir. In a telephone call today with Pakistan's FM H.E. Shah Mahmood Qureshi I stressed that the EU, including Sweden, supports a bilateral political solution between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, dialogue through diplomatic channels is crucial," tweeted Wallstrom.

Since India announced its decision to change the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, a rattled Pakistan ramped up its rhetorics and has made several attempts to involve the international community in the matter.

However, India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution, which gave the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, was an internal matter.

On Tuesday, Qureshi telephoned his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, who also asked him to engage in the dialogue with New Delhi on Kashmir.

Islamabad has not been able to convince even the Muslim world to back it in raising the issue of Kashmir.

Four of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states - the Maldives, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and the UAE - have said Kashmir is an internal matter of India.

Efforts by Pakistan's ally China too failed at the United Nations Security Council during a closed-door consultation on Kashmir last week.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has said it will knock the doors of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

"We have decided to take Kashmir case to the International Court of Justice," Pakistan-based newspaper Dawn quoted Qureshi as saying. 
&nbsp;

Echoing India's stance that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between New Delhi and Islamabad, Sweden has urged both the South Asian nations to engage in a dialogue through diplomatic channels to resolve the matter.

Echoing India's stance that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between New Delhi and Islamabad, Sweden has urged both the South Asian nations to engage in a dialogue through diplomatic channels to resolve the matter. Sweden's Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom made the remarks during a telephonic conversation with her Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Wednesday. "Worrying situation in Jammu and Kashmir. In a telephone call today with Pakistan's FM H.E. Shah Mahmood Qureshi I stressed that the EU, including Sweden, supports a bilateral political solution between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, dialogue through diplomatic channels is crucial," tweeted Wallstrom. Since India announced its decision to change the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, a rattled Pakistan ramped up its rhetorics and has made several attempts to involve the international community in the matter. However, India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution, which gave the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, was an internal matter. On Tuesday, Qureshi telephoned his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, who also asked him to engage in the dialogue with New Delhi on Kashmir. Islamabad has not been able to convince even the Muslim world to back it in raising the issue of Kashmir. Four of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states - the Maldives, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and the UAE - have said Kashmir is an internal matter of India. Efforts by Pakistan's ally China too failed at the United Nations Security Council during a closed-door consultation on Kashmir last week. Meanwhile, Pakistan has said it will knock the doors of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). "We have decided to take Kashmir case to the International Court of Justice," Pakistan-based newspaper Dawn quoted Qureshi as saying.

Qureshi dials up Sweden's FM who asks him to engage bilaterally with India on Kashmir

Tourism workers in Kashmir's summer capital Srinagar, home to the scenic Dal Lake that houses hundreds of floating houseboat hotels and Shikara boats, were defiant in their opposition to India's decision to strip the autonomous regions if its autonomy, saying on Tuesday (August 20) that despite declining business their main concern was their rights as Kashmiri.

Kashmir tourism industry decries Indian move as business suffers

An Analysis Of Trump's Latest Offer To Mediate The Kashmir Dispute On #WionEdit, Palki closely analyses Trump's latest offer to mediate the Kashmir dispute. The offer is 'egotistical', 'delusional', 'ignorant', 'dangerous' and 'deceptive'.

WION Edit: Trump's Kashmir offer 'Dangerous', 'Deceptive', 'Ignorant' &  Egotistical'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-train-zambian-armed-forces-pm-modi-244611">Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu</a>, during his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, said that Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

His is the first African country to react to the current India-Pakistan tensions.

President Lungu is on a 3-day visit to India. India has announced that it will be training Zambian forces. This was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the press statements during the 3-day visit of President Lungu

"To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.&nbsp;

India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1,000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country.

Lauding India's role in his country's development, Edgar Chagwa Lungu said,&nbsp;"India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development".

Zambian President's visit is the first for any head of the state from Africa ever since PM Modi took charge of his second term this May.&nbsp;

Earlier, Edgar Chagwa Lungu was honoured with the 'Guard of Honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

At the visitor's book at Rajghat Lungu said, "All said and done, only acknowledging the truth about past, present and future, can set us mankind free".

President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April 2018.&nbsp;Bilateral trade between India and&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country.&nbsp;

Zambia&nbsp;is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa with $5 billion investment. India is one of the leading investors in the country.

 
&nbsp;

Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, during his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, said that Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. His is the first African country to react to the current India-Pakistan tensions.

Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, during his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, said that Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. His is the first African country to react to the current India-Pakistan tensions. President Lungu is on a 3-day visit to India. India has announced that it will be training Zambian forces. This was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the press statements during the 3-day visit of President Lungu "To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1,000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country. Lauding India's role in his country's development, Edgar Chagwa Lungu said, "India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development". Zambian President's visit is the first for any head of the state from Africa ever since PM Modi took charge of his second term this May. Earlier, Edgar Chagwa Lungu was honoured with the 'Guard of Honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. At the visitor's book at Rajghat Lungu said, "All said and done, only acknowledging the truth about past, present and future, can set us mankind free". President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April 2018. Bilateral trade between India and Zambia stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country. Zambia is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa with $5 billion investment. India is one of the leading investors in the country.

Zambia becomes first African country to react on India-Pak tensions, calls Kashmir bilateral issue 

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Sources Tell WION That Pakistan's Government Wants To Take Up Kashmir Issue Before ICJ.

WION Gravitas: Desperate Pakistan wants to raise Kashmir issue before the ICJ

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-chairs-security-meeting-with-national-security-advisor-ajit-doval-on-jk-situation-244119">National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval</a> on Wednesday met with his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev in Moscow and discussed the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

Russia <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-france-say-kashmir-is-a-bilateral-issue-between-india-and-pakistan-244555">supported India's position on Kashmir</a>. Both the parties reiterated the importance of bilateral consultations and mutual support for principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Non-interference of third parties was also reiterated.&nbsp;Doval's Moscow visit comes on Patrushev's invite.&nbsp;

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Longstanding position of India &amp; Russia on the importance of bilateral consultations &amp; mutual support for principles of sovereignty &amp; territorial integrity &amp; non-interference of 3rd parties was reiterated. Russia backs Indian position on the Kashmir issue. <a href="https://t.co/aC6jWHMYaY">pic.twitter.com/aC6jWHMYaY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1164158454396858369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"NSA’s talks with his Russian counterpart covered preparations for PM’s visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum in early September, bilateral cooperation between the two National Security Councils as well as regional and international issues," read the press release. &nbsp;

Russia and India reaffirmed their intention to bolster counter-terrorism cooperation.&nbsp;

"Doval also met director of ROSCOSMOS Dmitry Rogozin to review ongoing cooperation in the space field and the Gaganyaan programme," the press release added. &nbsp;

Space cooperation was also on the table. Rogozin lauded the progress of the Chandrayaan programme and conveyed Russia’s support and best wishes for the Mission’s success.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and France have called Kashmir a bilateral issue and urged a resolution of the issue through dialogue.

In a conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British PM Boris Johnson on Tuesday afternoon, both sides discussed the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions, with the latter urging dialogue to resolve the issue.

A UK government readout said,"The Prime Minister and Prime Minister Modi discussed the current situation in Kashmir. The Prime Minister made clear that the UK views the issue of Kashmir is one for India and Pakistan to resolve bilaterally. He underlined the importance of resolving issues through dialogue."

Pakistan's foreign minister SM Qureshi spoke to French Foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian during which France reiterated its position on Kashmir that its a bilateral issue.&nbsp;

"It is up to the two countries, under the framework of their bilateral political dialogue, to resolve this dispute so as to establish lasting peace", French readout on Le Drian-Qureshi talks said.&nbsp;

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Wednesday met with his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev in Moscow and discussed the Kashmir issue. Russia supported India's position on Kashmir.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Wednesday met with his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev in Moscow and discussed the Kashmir issue. Russia supported India's position on Kashmir. Both the parties reiterated the importance of bilateral consultations and mutual support for principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Non-interference of third parties was also reiterated. Doval's Moscow visit comes on Patrushev's invite. Longstanding position of India & Russia on the importance of bilateral consultations & mutual support for principles of sovereignty & territorial integrity & non-interference of 3rd parties was reiterated. Russia backs Indian position on the Kashmir issue. pic.twitter.com/aC6jWHMYaY — ANI (@ANI) August 21, 2019 × "NSA’s talks with his Russian counterpart covered preparations for PM’s visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum in early September, bilateral cooperation between the two National Security Councils as well as regional and international issues," read the press release. Russia and India reaffirmed their intention to bolster counter-terrorism cooperation. "Doval also met director of ROSCOSMOS Dmitry Rogozin to review ongoing cooperation in the space field and the Gaganyaan programme," the press release added. Space cooperation was also on the table. Rogozin lauded the progress of the Chandrayaan programme and conveyed Russia’s support and best wishes for the Mission’s success. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and France have called Kashmir a bilateral issue and urged a resolution of the issue through dialogue. In a conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British PM Boris Johnson on Tuesday afternoon, both sides discussed the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions, with the latter urging dialogue to resolve the issue. A UK government readout said,"The Prime Minister and Prime Minister Modi discussed the current situation in Kashmir. The Prime Minister made clear that the UK views the issue of Kashmir is one for India and Pakistan to resolve bilaterally. He underlined the importance of resolving issues through dialogue." Pakistan's foreign minister SM Qureshi spoke to French Foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian during which France reiterated its position on Kashmir that its a bilateral issue. "It is up to the two countries, under the framework of their bilateral political dialogue, to resolve this dispute so as to establish lasting peace", French readout on Le Drian-Qureshi talks said.

NSA Doval meets Russian counterpart in Moscow, reaffirms counter-terrorism cooperation

More support for India's move on Jammu and Kashmir, after Maldives, Bhutan and Bangladesh, now Nepal too has come out and backed India on Kashmir issue. Watch full video to know more.

After Bhutan, Maldives and Bangladesh, Nepal backs India's move on J&K

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