Brazil's next government, under incoming <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-has-invited-brazils-president-elect-bolsonaro-to-us-john-bolton-180251">far-right president Jair Bolsonaro</a> who takes power in three weeks, will be neo-liberal economically, morally conservative and heavy reliant on a contingent of ex-military figures.

That's the final composition that has emerged after weeks of announcements and casting about to fill the top posts of 22 ministries, down from 29 in the outgoing administration.

Seven of the ministers will be military men. Eight have technocrat profiles. And seven are politicians.&nbsp;

All are united by fierce criticism of the leftwing governments that ruled under former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (2003-2010) -- who is now in prison for corruption -- and his protegee Dilma Rousseff (2011-2016) -- whose second mandate was cut short by impeachment.

Bolsonaro said at a ceremony on Monday he would govern "without distinction of social origin, race, sex, age or religion."

There are just two women in Bolsonaro's government, which is double the number in the outgoing lineup under President Michel Temer.&nbsp;

There are no blacks, despite half of Brazil's population being at least partly descended from Africans.

Oliver Stuenkel, a professor of international relations at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, said there were three distinct groups to be seen: "A nationalist, anti-globalist group that is oriented towards the populist politics of Donald Trump, a group of neo-liberals that controls the economic part, and another of military men with influence in various areas."

He added: "We'll soon see how the power play will work out between these three axes."

'Chicago Oldies'&nbsp;

A big challenge for Bolsonaro will be to bring Brazil's economy back to full health. The country exited its worst recession on record two years ago but has put in an anemic performance since.

To that end he has tapped Paulo Guedes, a product of the University of Chicago's economic liberalism, to head up an economy superministry in charge of finances, planning, trade and a chunk of the scrapped labour portfolio.

Guedes, a strong advocate of privatization and small government, has named a bunch of veteran economists -- nicknamed the "Chicago Oldies" by the Brazilian press -- to take charge of state oil company Petrobras, the central bank and the BNDES development bank.

"The formation of the economic team suggests that Guedes will enjoy fairly big autonomy to carry out the reform agenda without interference from other parts of the government," Thomaz Favaro, an analyst at the firm Control Risks, told AFP.

Anti-corruption&nbsp;

Another priority is to fight corruption and rampant crime.

Another superministry -- for justice this time -- will be under the command of Sergio Moro, a celebrated anti-graft judge who led the Car Wash investigation that led to Lula and other politicians being sent to prison.

But it remains to be seen how Moro will be able to operate under Bolsonaro's extreme right direction, with divergences already possible over the next president's push to ease gun laws and to label radical rural groups as "terrorists."

Wladimir Gramacho, a political sciences professor at the University of Brasilia, said Moro and Guedes, as well as Onyx Lorenzoni who will become Bolsonaro's chief of staff, "have the confidence of the three pillars supporting a government: Congress, the economy and public opinion."

Camouflage in cabinet&nbsp;

Brazil's 63-year-old leader-to-be has never hidden his nostalgia for the 1964-1985 military dictatorship he served, nor his intent to dose his cabinet with ex-military types.

In addition to the post of vice president, retired generals have been named as the ministers of defense, the secretariat of government, institutional security, mines and energy, science and technology, infrastructure, and the comptroller's office.

"We'll see what the military men in the future government bring and their interest in taking on greater portions of power," Gramacho told AFP.

God above all

Bolsonaro has also brought in people who share his ultraconservative values -- he is against abortion and gender identity as defined by individuals -- and his Christian faith, as well as his pro-US, anti-globalization, anti-left views that include scepticism toward climate change.

His future foreign minister, Ernesto Araujo, has promised to clean out any trace of "cultural Marxism" from his ministry. His education minister, a Colombian philosopher named Ricardo Velez Rodriguez, has stated that "it's nature that defines gender."

His environment minister is a lawyer, Ricardo Salles, who is sympathetic to the powerful rural sector according to Greenpeace and other groups fighting deforestation.

The new minister for human rights, women and the family will be a female evangelical pastor, Damares Alves, who has surprised some by saying she believed it was possible to have "a government of peace between the conservative movement, the LGBT movement and other movements."

Beef, Bullets, Bible&nbsp;

Bolsonaro has eschewed the custom of doling out ministries to parties supporting him.

Instead he has put some portfolios -- agriculture for instance -- in the hands of what is being called the "BBB" lobbies, standing for "Beef, Bullets and the Bible."

They cut across several parties and put forward the interests of Brazil's powerful agribusiness groups, gun advocates, and an influential and growing evangelical movement.

Brazil's next government, under incoming far-right president Jair Bolsonaro who takes power in three weeks, will be neo-liberal economically, morally conservative and heavy reliant on a contingent of ex-military figures.

Brazil's next government, under incoming far-right president Jair Bolsonaro who takes power in three weeks, will be neo-liberal economically, morally conservative and heavy reliant on a contingent of ex-military figures. That's the final composition that has emerged after weeks of announcements and casting about to fill the top posts of 22 ministries, down from 29 in the outgoing administration. Seven of the ministers will be military men. Eight have technocrat profiles. And seven are politicians. All are united by fierce criticism of the leftwing governments that ruled under former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (2003-2010) -- who is now in prison for corruption -- and his protegee Dilma Rousseff (2011-2016) -- whose second mandate was cut short by impeachment. Bolsonaro said at a ceremony on Monday he would govern "without distinction of social origin, race, sex, age or religion." There are just two women in Bolsonaro's government, which is double the number in the outgoing lineup under President Michel Temer. There are no blacks, despite half of Brazil's population being at least partly descended from Africans. Oliver Stuenkel, a professor of international relations at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, said there were three distinct groups to be seen: "A nationalist, anti-globalist group that is oriented towards the populist politics of Donald Trump, a group of neo-liberals that controls the economic part, and another of military men with influence in various areas." He added: "We'll soon see how the power play will work out between these three axes." 'Chicago Oldies' A big challenge for Bolsonaro will be to bring Brazil's economy back to full health. The country exited its worst recession on record two years ago but has put in an anemic performance since. To that end he has tapped Paulo Guedes, a product of the University of Chicago's economic liberalism, to head up an economy superministry in charge of finances, planning, trade and a chunk of the scrapped labour portfolio. Guedes, a strong advocate of privatization and small government, has named a bunch of veteran economists -- nicknamed the "Chicago Oldies" by the Brazilian press -- to take charge of state oil company Petrobras, the central bank and the BNDES development bank. "The formation of the economic team suggests that Guedes will enjoy fairly big autonomy to carry out the reform agenda without interference from other parts of the government," Thomaz Favaro, an analyst at the firm Control Risks, told AFP. Anti-corruption Another priority is to fight corruption and rampant crime. Another superministry -- for justice this time -- will be under the command of Sergio Moro, a celebrated anti-graft judge who led the Car Wash investigation that led to Lula and other politicians being sent to prison. But it remains to be seen how Moro will be able to operate under Bolsonaro's extreme right direction, with divergences already possible over the next president's push to ease gun laws and to label radical rural groups as "terrorists." Wladimir Gramacho, a political sciences professor at the University of Brasilia, said Moro and Guedes, as well as Onyx Lorenzoni who will become Bolsonaro's chief of staff, "have the confidence of the three pillars supporting a government: Congress, the economy and public opinion." Camouflage in cabinet Brazil's 63-year-old leader-to-be has never hidden his nostalgia for the 1964-1985 military dictatorship he served, nor his intent to dose his cabinet with ex-military types. In addition to the post of vice president, retired generals have been named as the ministers of defense, the secretariat of government, institutional security, mines and energy, science and technology, infrastructure, and the comptroller's office. "We'll see what the military men in the future government bring and their interest in taking on greater portions of power," Gramacho told AFP. God above all Bolsonaro has also brought in people who share his ultraconservative values -- he is against abortion and gender identity as defined by individuals -- and his Christian faith, as well as his pro-US, anti-globalization, anti-left views that include scepticism toward climate change. His future foreign minister, Ernesto Araujo, has promised to clean out any trace of "cultural Marxism" from his ministry. His education minister, a Colombian philosopher named Ricardo Velez Rodriguez, has stated that "it's nature that defines gender." His environment minister is a lawyer, Ricardo Salles, who is sympathetic to the powerful rural sector according to Greenpeace and other groups fighting deforestation. The new minister for human rights, women and the family will be a female evangelical pastor, Damares Alves, who has surprised some by saying she believed it was possible to have "a government of peace between the conservative movement, the LGBT movement and other movements." Beef, Bullets, Bible Bolsonaro has eschewed the custom of doling out ministries to parties supporting him. Instead he has put some portfolios -- agriculture for instance -- in the hands of what is being called the "BBB" lobbies, standing for "Beef, Bullets and the Bible." They cut across several parties and put forward the interests of Brazil's powerful agribusiness groups, gun advocates, and an influential and growing evangelical movement.

Brazil president-elect Bolsonaro government has military, conservative streak

A Chinese Army contingent arrived here on Saturday to take part in the sixth edition of a joint bilateral military training exercise, the Pakistan Army said.

The troops of the Special Service Group from both the armies will participate in the three-week long exercise 'Warrior VI 2018'.

"A special forces contingent of People Liberation Army China arrived here today (Saturday) to participate in Pakistan-China joint military exercise," the Pakistan Army said.

This is the sixth joint exercise of the series as part of bilateral military cooperation between the two countries, it said.

The Army said the focus of the joint exercise was to share experiences in the field of counterterrorism operations and learn from each other.

Pakistan regularly holds joint military manoeuvres with different nations.

A similar joint exercise featuring Russian and Pakistani troops was completed in the first week of November.&nbsp;

A Chinese Army contingent arrived here on Saturday to take part in the sixth edition of a joint bilateral military training exercise, the Pakistan Army said. The troops of the Special Service Group from both the armies will participate in the three-week long exercise 'Warrior VI 2018'.

A Chinese Army contingent arrived here on Saturday to take part in the sixth edition of a joint bilateral military training exercise, the Pakistan Army said. The troops of the Special Service Group from both the armies will participate in the three-week long exercise 'Warrior VI 2018'. "A special forces contingent of People Liberation Army China arrived here today (Saturday) to participate in Pakistan-China joint military exercise," the Pakistan Army said. This is the sixth joint exercise of the series as part of bilateral military cooperation between the two countries, it said. The Army said the focus of the joint exercise was to share experiences in the field of counterterrorism operations and learn from each other. Pakistan regularly holds joint military manoeuvres with different nations. A similar joint exercise featuring Russian and Pakistani troops was completed in the first week of November.

Chinese forces arrive in Pakistan for sixth joint military drill

A Myanmar court jailed three activists on Friday for defaming the military during anti-war protests, amid growing concern about a clamp-down on civil society.

A judge in Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin state, found two men and one woman guilty of defamation, sentencing them to six months in prison and a fine of $320 each.

Lum Zawng, Nang Pu, and Zau Jat took part in demonstrations in war-torn Kachin in April, when an army offensive against ethnic minority guerrillas prompted more than 6,000 people to flee their homes.

"They used the word 'military'&nbsp;in their speech," said Doi Bu, a lawyer for one of the defendants, referring to speeches they made at the protest.

"'The military doesn’t allow people to leave the conflict zone'," he said, giving examples of what they had said.

"'The military blocks people from the conflict zone`, and `the military is threatening people'."

The three had denied wrongdoing.

The fighting between government troops and one of the country’s biggest insurgent groups, the Kachin Independence Army, stranded hundreds of villagers in the conflict zone and sparked anti-war protests in Myitkyina.

After more than two weeks, government leader Aung San Suu Kyi sent her minister for social welfare, relief and resettlement, Win Myat Aye, to the area and in May some 150 trapped villagers were allowed passage to safety.

The European Union and Swedish embassies in Yangon condemned Friday’s verdict, urging the authorities to review the decision.&nbsp;

The EU said the judgement was "worrying news for civil society in Myanmar".

"Protests for peace and for saving people trapped by violent conflict should not be criminalized," the EU said in a statement.

The international rights group Amnesty International said the jailing of the three was "appalling".

Their sentences reflected a pattern of attacks, intimidation, threats and prosecutions against human rights defenders, journalists and community leaders who speak out in defence of civilian victims of military operations, it said.

"It sends a chilling warning," the group said in a statement.

The government denies any pattern of rights abuses saying cases are handled according to the law.

According to the Myanmar free-speech organization Athan, which means ‘Voice’ in Burmese, 44 journalists and 142 activists have faced trial since 2016 when Nobel laureate Suu Kyi came to power at the head of a civilian government after 50 years of military rule.

Activists say her government has failed to use its overwhelming parliamentary majority to scrap colonial-era laws used to stifle dissent while tightening restrictions on activist groups.

&nbsp;

A Myanmar court jailed three activists on Friday for defaming the military during anti-war protests, amid growing concern about a clamp-down on civil society. A judge in Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin state, found two men and one woman guilty of defamation, sentencing them to six months in prison and a fine of $320 each.

A Myanmar court jailed three activists on Friday for defaming the military during anti-war protests, amid growing concern about a clamp-down on civil society. A judge in Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin state, found two men and one woman guilty of defamation, sentencing them to six months in prison and a fine of $320 each. Lum Zawng, Nang Pu, and Zau Jat took part in demonstrations in war-torn Kachin in April, when an army offensive against ethnic minority guerrillas prompted more than 6,000 people to flee their homes. "They used the word 'military' in their speech," said Doi Bu, a lawyer for one of the defendants, referring to speeches they made at the protest. "'The military doesn’t allow people to leave the conflict zone'," he said, giving examples of what they had said. "'The military blocks people from the conflict zone`, and `the military is threatening people'." The three had denied wrongdoing. The fighting between government troops and one of the country’s biggest insurgent groups, the Kachin Independence Army, stranded hundreds of villagers in the conflict zone and sparked anti-war protests in Myitkyina. After more than two weeks, government leader Aung San Suu Kyi sent her minister for social welfare, relief and resettlement, Win Myat Aye, to the area and in May some 150 trapped villagers were allowed passage to safety. The European Union and Swedish embassies in Yangon condemned Friday’s verdict, urging the authorities to review the decision. The EU said the judgement was "worrying news for civil society in Myanmar". "Protests for peace and for saving people trapped by violent conflict should not be criminalized," the EU said in a statement. The international rights group Amnesty International said the jailing of the three was "appalling". Their sentences reflected a pattern of attacks, intimidation, threats and prosecutions against human rights defenders, journalists and community leaders who speak out in defence of civilian victims of military operations, it said. "It sends a chilling warning," the group said in a statement. The government denies any pattern of rights abuses saying cases are handled according to the law. According to the Myanmar free-speech organization Athan, which means ‘Voice’ in Burmese, 44 journalists and 142 activists have faced trial since 2016 when Nobel laureate Suu Kyi came to power at the head of a civilian government after 50 years of military rule. Activists say her government has failed to use its overwhelming parliamentary majority to scrap colonial-era laws used to stifle dissent while tightening restrictions on activist groups.

Myanmar court jails anti-war protesters for defaming military

The government has rejected a long-standing demand of the armed forces for higher Military Service Pay (MSP) for over 1.12 lakh military personnel including Junior Commissioned Officers of the Army, official sources said Tuesday.

They told PTI that the Army headquarters is "very anguished" over the decision by the Finance Ministry, and will seek its immediate review.

Around 1.12 lakh military personnel including 87,646 JCOs and 25,434 personnel of equivalent rank from the Navy and the Indian Air Force will be affected by the decision.

The demand was to increase the monthly MSP from Rs 5,500 to Rs 10,000 and the total annual financial outgo would have been Rs 610 crore if the government had accepted the demand, sources said.

The MSP for the military personnel was introduced recognising their unique service conditions and hardships.

"The proposal for higher MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank of the Navy and IAF has been rejected by the Finance Ministry," said a source.

At present, the MSP has two categories -- one for officers and another for JCOs and jawans.

The seventh Pay Commission had fixed Rs 5,200 as MSP per month for JCOs and jawans while putting it at Rs 15,500 for officers between Lieutenant-rank and Brigadier-rank.

The Army has been pressing for granting an higher MSP to the JCOs, arguing that they are gazetted officers (Group B) and play a very vital role in command and control structure of the force.

"Since JCOs are Group B gazetted officers and also have a considerable length of service, it is incorrect to grant them MSP on par with the jawans.&nbsp;

It is very unfair," said a military officer who wished not to be named.

The Army had taken up the issue strongly with the Defence Minister and the three services as well as the Defence Ministry were on the same page on the issue, the sources said.

The MSP was first introduced by the 6th Pay Commission, accounting for compensation for intangible aspects of military service.

It accounts for a range of "hardships and disadvantages" which cannot be evaluated while assessing pay comparability.

The concept of MSP for armed forces personnel is widely prevalent in European countries.

The armed forces were pressing for a separate slab of MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank.

In November last year, the Army clarified JCOs are gazetted officers and cancelled a seven-year-old note describing them as "non-gazetted" officers.

The decision by the Army came amid growing resentment among a large section of its officers over the controversial issue of rank-parity between them and their civilian counterparts in the service headquarters.

The government has rejected a long-standing demand of the armed forces for higher Military Service Pay (MSP) for over 1.12 lakh military personnel including Junior Commissioned Officers of the Army, official sources said Tuesday.

The government has rejected a long-standing demand of the armed forces for higher Military Service Pay (MSP) for over 1.12 lakh military personnel including Junior Commissioned Officers of the Army, official sources said Tuesday. They told PTI that the Army headquarters is "very anguished" over the decision by the Finance Ministry, and will seek its immediate review. Around 1.12 lakh military personnel including 87,646 JCOs and 25,434 personnel of equivalent rank from the Navy and the Indian Air Force will be affected by the decision. The demand was to increase the monthly MSP from Rs 5,500 to Rs 10,000 and the total annual financial outgo would have been Rs 610 crore if the government had accepted the demand, sources said. The MSP for the military personnel was introduced recognising their unique service conditions and hardships. "The proposal for higher MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank of the Navy and IAF has been rejected by the Finance Ministry," said a source. At present, the MSP has two categories -- one for officers and another for JCOs and jawans. The seventh Pay Commission had fixed Rs 5,200 as MSP per month for JCOs and jawans while putting it at Rs 15,500 for officers between Lieutenant-rank and Brigadier-rank. The Army has been pressing for granting an higher MSP to the JCOs, arguing that they are gazetted officers (Group B) and play a very vital role in command and control structure of the force. "Since JCOs are Group B gazetted officers and also have a considerable length of service, it is incorrect to grant them MSP on par with the jawans. It is very unfair," said a military officer who wished not to be named. The Army had taken up the issue strongly with the Defence Minister and the three services as well as the Defence Ministry were on the same page on the issue, the sources said. The MSP was first introduced by the 6th Pay Commission, accounting for compensation for intangible aspects of military service. It accounts for a range of "hardships and disadvantages" which cannot be evaluated while assessing pay comparability. The concept of MSP for armed forces personnel is widely prevalent in European countries. The armed forces were pressing for a separate slab of MSP for JCOs and equivalent rank. In November last year, the Army clarified JCOs are gazetted officers and cancelled a seven-year-old note describing them as "non-gazetted" officers. The decision by the Army came amid growing resentment among a large section of its officers over the controversial issue of rank-parity between them and their civilian counterparts in the service headquarters.

Army upset as government rejects demand for higher military service pay

The Indian Army inducted its first batch of artillery guns on November 9 in Deolali and it is expected that over the next two years, a total of 245 guns will be progressively acquired.&nbsp;

These guns are 145 in number M 777 (from the US) and 100 in number K 9 Vajra (with South Korean cooperation) and will cost a little under Rs 10,000 crores.

It may be recalled that after India acquired the Bofors artillery gun from Sweden in 1986, this is the first induction of fresh inventory and is an indicator of the many constraints that bedevil the military procurement process in India.

Both the Bofors gun and the HDW submarine acquired from then West Germany in the later 1980s have become synonymous with financial transgressions and corruption cum bribery charges were levelled against then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

It also merits note that after more than 30 years of investigation, the Bofors case has been more or less closed for extended delays by the CBI and lack of substantive evidence–though a window has been kept open on technical grounds.

However, it would be valid to infer that then PM Rajiv Gandhi and the Congress party were placed on the defensive by the opposition parties and the electoral defeat of the Congress party in late 1989 was shaped by the perception among the electorate that the government of the day was ‘corrupt’ and hence voted out.

These elements are indicative of the multi-layered significance of the induction in Deolali on Friday where the Defence Minister and the Army Chief were both present. &nbsp;

In her remarks, Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provided the political context when she noted: “These guns are being inducted almost 30 years after the Bofors guns were inducted” &nbsp;and added that though the process to acquire these guns began in 2006, there was no tangible progress.

In the pre-election phase that India is now in, the Minister further added: “In contrast, our government shrunk the process in the last four years and not only initiated the procurement process, but ensured its induction.”&nbsp;

While the M 777 is a case of a direct government to government (G2G) &nbsp;purchase from the USA, thereby avoiding the kind of Rafale fiasco, the Vajra has the potential for contributing to the Make In India initiative prioritized by the Modi government.

The Indian army has been in dire need of acquiring greater fire-power by way of the artillery and this was evidenced during the Kargil war of 1999. Yet, the higher defence decision-making apparatus in India during NDA-I led by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the UPA decade led by PM Manmohan Singh were unable to redress a major inventory gap for the army and these 15 years did not lead to any meaningful policy decision by way of direct import, &nbsp;technology transfer and assemble in India, as well as provide encouragement to the private sector. &nbsp;

Much the same paradigm applies to the Indian Air Force and the induction of a fighter aircraft now symbolized by the Rafale controversy.

Thus the policy cues from the Deolali induction of artillery guns can be reviewed along three tracks. The first is that the armed forces of India must not be denied critical equipment/ platform due to political mud-slinging between the major parties and the Bofors-HDW cross ought to be an internalised for lessons learnt and pitfalls to be avoided by the legislature and the PMO in an appropriate manner.

This is easier said than done given the current ethos in India, which is a relentless zero-sum approach towards national security and seeking political mileage for electoral benefit.

The second is that whether UPA or NDA, the military inventory procurement procedures in India have to be made more time and cost efficient. The submarine saga of India is one of precious time and resources – both fiscal and HR being squandered due to faulty policy making and an indifferent/impulsive higher defence management approach.&nbsp;

The Rafale fighter aircraft experience and the Scorpene submarine now being built in India as the new Kalveri class, are illustrative.

The third policy strand that merits some deep introspection is the Indian inability to nurture a national eco-system for encouraging Make in India in the defence sector in a meaningful manner.&nbsp;

The Vajra K 9 guns inducted in Deolali are the result of cooperation between a South Korean technology major and an &nbsp;Indian company — Larsen &amp; Toubro. &nbsp;This is a commendable initiative in relation to domestic manufacture of conventional military equipment for the army, which despite being the largest service in India, does not have a significant track-record in design and manufacture of equipment/platforms. &nbsp;&nbsp;

India needs to nurture the private sector –both major and medium - to become stakeholders in the path towards some degree of self-sufficiency.

Defence R&amp;D and manufacture in India has been zealously guarded by the DRDO and the defence PSUs, including the Ordnance factories.&nbsp;

While there have been notable successes in the strategic domain due to the perseverance of these institutions, for example, the missile and nuclear weapon programme– the conventional arms spectrum is disappointing.&nbsp;

While the DRDO has been accused of being a ‘dog-in-the-manger’, in certain instances the faith and trust placed in the private sector has been misplaced leading to bitter acrimony between the principal stakeholders.

India is planning a manned mission to the moon but is unable to design and manufacture a personal weapon for its one million-plus army and a para-military that is as large. Irrigating the defence design and manufacturing eco-system towards this end for the long term is a national imperative. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-acquisitions-long-overdue-2686109">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

The Indian Army inducted its first batch of artillery guns on November 9 in Deolali and it is expected that over the next two years, a total of 245 guns will be progressively acquired.

The Indian Army inducted its first batch of artillery guns on November 9 in Deolali and it is expected that over the next two years, a total of 245 guns will be progressively acquired. These guns are 145 in number M 777 (from the US) and 100 in number K 9 Vajra (with South Korean cooperation) and will cost a little under Rs 10,000 crores. It may be recalled that after India acquired the Bofors artillery gun from Sweden in 1986, this is the first induction of fresh inventory and is an indicator of the many constraints that bedevil the military procurement process in India. Both the Bofors gun and the HDW submarine acquired from then West Germany in the later 1980s have become synonymous with financial transgressions and corruption cum bribery charges were levelled against then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. It also merits note that after more than 30 years of investigation, the Bofors case has been more or less closed for extended delays by the CBI and lack of substantive evidence–though a window has been kept open on technical grounds. However, it would be valid to infer that then PM Rajiv Gandhi and the Congress party were placed on the defensive by the opposition parties and the electoral defeat of the Congress party in late 1989 was shaped by the perception among the electorate that the government of the day was ‘corrupt’ and hence voted out. These elements are indicative of the multi-layered significance of the induction in Deolali on Friday where the Defence Minister and the Army Chief were both present. In her remarks, Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provided the political context when she noted: “These guns are being inducted almost 30 years after the Bofors guns were inducted” and added that though the process to acquire these guns began in 2006, there was no tangible progress. In the pre-election phase that India is now in, the Minister further added: “In contrast, our government shrunk the process in the last four years and not only initiated the procurement process, but ensured its induction.” While the M 777 is a case of a direct government to government (G2G) purchase from the USA, thereby avoiding the kind of Rafale fiasco, the Vajra has the potential for contributing to the Make In India initiative prioritized by the Modi government. The Indian army has been in dire need of acquiring greater fire-power by way of the artillery and this was evidenced during the Kargil war of 1999. Yet, the higher defence decision-making apparatus in India during NDA-I led by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the UPA decade led by PM Manmohan Singh were unable to redress a major inventory gap for the army and these 15 years did not lead to any meaningful policy decision by way of direct import, technology transfer and assemble in India, as well as provide encouragement to the private sector. Much the same paradigm applies to the Indian Air Force and the induction of a fighter aircraft now symbolized by the Rafale controversy. Thus the policy cues from the Deolali induction of artillery guns can be reviewed along three tracks. The first is that the armed forces of India must not be denied critical equipment/ platform due to political mud-slinging between the major parties and the Bofors-HDW cross ought to be an internalised for lessons learnt and pitfalls to be avoided by the legislature and the PMO in an appropriate manner. This is easier said than done given the current ethos in India, which is a relentless zero-sum approach towards national security and seeking political mileage for electoral benefit. The second is that whether UPA or NDA, the military inventory procurement procedures in India have to be made more time and cost efficient. The submarine saga of India is one of precious time and resources – both fiscal and HR being squandered due to faulty policy making and an indifferent/impulsive higher defence management approach. The Rafale fighter aircraft experience and the Scorpene submarine now being built in India as the new Kalveri class, are illustrative. The third policy strand that merits some deep introspection is the Indian inability to nurture a national eco-system for encouraging Make in India in the defence sector in a meaningful manner. The Vajra K 9 guns inducted in Deolali are the result of cooperation between a South Korean technology major and an Indian company — Larsen & Toubro. This is a commendable initiative in relation to domestic manufacture of conventional military equipment for the army, which despite being the largest service in India, does not have a significant track-record in design and manufacture of equipment/platforms. India needs to nurture the private sector –both major and medium - to become stakeholders in the path towards some degree of self-sufficiency. Defence R&D and manufacture in India has been zealously guarded by the DRDO and the defence PSUs, including the Ordnance factories. While there have been notable successes in the strategic domain due to the perseverance of these institutions, for example, the missile and nuclear weapon programme– the conventional arms spectrum is disappointing. While the DRDO has been accused of being a ‘dog-in-the-manger’, in certain instances the faith and trust placed in the private sector has been misplaced leading to bitter acrimony between the principal stakeholders. India is planning a manned mission to the moon but is unable to design and manufacture a personal weapon for its one million-plus army and a para-military that is as large. Irrigating the defence design and manufacturing eco-system towards this end for the long term is a national imperative. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Acquisitions long overdue

The United States said on Monday it will send over 5,200 troops to help secure the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/many-gang-members-in-caravan-headed-to-sourthern-border-it-is-an-invasion-and-our-military-is-waiting-trump-174273">border with Mexico</a>, a far larger-than-expected deployment as President Donald Trump hardens his stance on immigration ahead of November&nbsp;6 mid-term elections.

The deployment will create an active-duty force comparable in size to the US&nbsp;military contingent in Iraq, as Trump's administration draws attention to a caravan of migrants that is trekking through Mexico toward the United States.

General Terrence O'Shaughnessy, the head of US&nbsp;Northern Command, said 800 US&nbsp;troops were already en route to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-honors-migrants-at-day-of-the-dead-as-caravan-treks-north-173978">Texas border</a> and more were headed to the borders in California and Arizona.

"The president has made it clear that border security is national security," O'Shaughnessy said, as he detailed a much larger deployment that the 800 to 1,000 troops predicted by US&nbsp;officials last week.

O'Shaughnessy said some soldiers would be armed although it was unclear who, beyond US&nbsp;military police, might need those weapons. US&nbsp;officials have stressed that the troops would not police the border and instead carry out support roles like building tents and barricades, and flying US&nbsp;customs personnel to locations along the border.

Trump railed against illegal immigration to win the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential election and has seized on the caravan of Central American migrants at campaign rallies in the run-up to next week's vote, firing up support for his Republican Party.

If the Republicans lose control of the House of Representatives or the Senate, it could become much harder for Trump to pursue his policy agenda in his remaining two years in office.

According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in late September and early October, 75 per cent of Republican voters said illegal immigration is a very big problem, compared with 19 percent of Democratic voters.

Although Trump's supporters in Congress praised the deployment of troops, the American Civil Liberties Union derided it as a political stunt.

"President Trump has chosen just before midterm elections to force the military into furthering his anti-immigrant agenda of fear and division," said Shaw Drake, policy counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union Border Rights Center in El Paso, Texas.

ARMED SOLDIERS

Trump said on Twitter on Monday that the military would be waiting for the procession -- suggesting a far more direct role in confronting the migrants than the Pentagon described.

"Many Gang Members and some very bad people are mixed into the Caravan heading to our Southern Border," Trump tweeted.

"Please go back, you will not be admitted into the United States unless you go through the legal process. This is an invasion of our Country and our Military is waiting for you!" he added.

Trump administration officials have been discussing other options to address the caravan and a surge in border crossings, including having Trump use his authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to declare certain migrants ineligible for asylum for national security reasons.

Officials said no decisions had been made.

Kevin McAleenan, the US&nbsp;commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, said a group of approximately 3,500 immigrants were travelling through southern Mexico with the intent of reaching the US&nbsp;border. A second caravan of about 3,000 people were at the Guatemala-Mexico border, McAleenan said.

At the same time, over the last three weeks, border agents have encountered nearly 1,900 people per day either crossing the border illegally or presenting themselves at ports of entry, with over half of them being children alone or parents and children travelling together, McAleenan said.

"We are already facing a border security and humanitarian crisis at our southwest border," he said.

Some migrants have abandoned the journey, deterred by the hardships or the possibility instead of making a new life in Mexico. Others joined it in southern Mexico.

Trump's decision to call in the military appears to be a departure from past practice, at least in recent years, in which such operations were carried out by National Guard forces -- largely part-time military members who are often called upon to serve in response to domestic emergencies.

There are already 2,100 US&nbsp;National Guard forces at the border, sent after a previous Trump request in April. The latest deployment would be in addition to those forces.

The decision to send active duty forces this time gives the Pentagon the ability to more rapidly mobilise greater capability than would be immediately available with the Guard, officials told Reuters.

But it also injects the military, which prides itself in being non-partisan, into a highly charged political issue just days ahead of an election.

The United States said on Monday it will send over 5,200 troops to help secure the border with Mexico, a far larger-than-expected deployment as President Donald Trump hardens his stance on immigration ahead of November 6 mid-term elections.

The United States said on Monday it will send over 5,200 troops to help secure the border with Mexico, a far larger-than-expected deployment as President Donald Trump hardens his stance on immigration ahead of November 6 mid-term elections. The deployment will create an active-duty force comparable in size to the US military contingent in Iraq, as Trump's administration draws attention to a caravan of migrants that is trekking through Mexico toward the United States. General Terrence O'Shaughnessy, the head of US Northern Command, said 800 US troops were already en route to the Texas border and more were headed to the borders in California and Arizona. "The president has made it clear that border security is national security," O'Shaughnessy said, as he detailed a much larger deployment that the 800 to 1,000 troops predicted by US officials last week. O'Shaughnessy said some soldiers would be armed although it was unclear who, beyond US military police, might need those weapons. US officials have stressed that the troops would not police the border and instead carry out support roles like building tents and barricades, and flying US customs personnel to locations along the border. Trump railed against illegal immigration to win the 2016 US presidential election and has seized on the caravan of Central American migrants at campaign rallies in the run-up to next week's vote, firing up support for his Republican Party. If the Republicans lose control of the House of Representatives or the Senate, it could become much harder for Trump to pursue his policy agenda in his remaining two years in office. According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in late September and early October, 75 per cent of Republican voters said illegal immigration is a very big problem, compared with 19 percent of Democratic voters. Although Trump's supporters in Congress praised the deployment of troops, the American Civil Liberties Union derided it as a political stunt. "President Trump has chosen just before midterm elections to force the military into furthering his anti-immigrant agenda of fear and division," said Shaw Drake, policy counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union Border Rights Center in El Paso, Texas. ARMED SOLDIERS Trump said on Twitter on Monday that the military would be waiting for the procession -- suggesting a far more direct role in confronting the migrants than the Pentagon described. "Many Gang Members and some very bad people are mixed into the Caravan heading to our Southern Border," Trump tweeted. "Please go back, you will not be admitted into the United States unless you go through the legal process. This is an invasion of our Country and our Military is waiting for you!" he added. Trump administration officials have been discussing other options to address the caravan and a surge in border crossings, including having Trump use his authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to declare certain migrants ineligible for asylum for national security reasons. Officials said no decisions had been made. Kevin McAleenan, the US commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, said a group of approximately 3,500 immigrants were travelling through southern Mexico with the intent of reaching the US border. A second caravan of about 3,000 people were at the Guatemala-Mexico border, McAleenan said. At the same time, over the last three weeks, border agents have encountered nearly 1,900 people per day either crossing the border illegally or presenting themselves at ports of entry, with over half of them being children alone or parents and children travelling together, McAleenan said. "We are already facing a border security and humanitarian crisis at our southwest border," he said. Some migrants have abandoned the journey, deterred by the hardships or the possibility instead of making a new life in Mexico. Others joined it in southern Mexico. Trump's decision to call in the military appears to be a departure from past practice, at least in recent years, in which such operations were carried out by National Guard forces -- largely part-time military members who are often called upon to serve in response to domestic emergencies. There are already 2,100 US National Guard forces at the border, sent after a previous Trump request in April. The latest deployment would be in addition to those forces. The decision to send active duty forces this time gives the Pentagon the ability to more rapidly mobilise greater capability than would be immediately available with the Guard, officials told Reuters. But it also injects the military, which prides itself in being non-partisan, into a highly charged political issue just days ahead of an election.

As migrant caravan approaches, US says it's sending 5,200 troops to Mexico border

China's army will take action "at any cost" to foil attempts to separate the self-ruled island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own, the country's defence minister said on Thursday.

Beijing has been infuriated by recent US sanctions on its military, one of a growing number of flashpoints in ties with Washington that include a bitter trade war, Taiwan and China's increasingly muscular military posture in the South China Sea.

On Monday, the United States sent two warships through the Taiwan Strait in the second such operation this year and the latest in a series of gestures made by the White House in support of democratic Taiwan.

"The Taiwan issue is related to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and touches upon China's core interests," Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said at the opening of the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, which China styles as its answer to the annual Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore.

"On this issue, it is extremely dangerous to repeatedly challenge China's bottom line. If someone tries to separate out Taiwan (from China), China's army will take the necessary actions at any cost."

China-Taiwan relations have deteriorated since the island's President Tsai Ing-wen, of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party, swept to power in 2016.

Beijing, which has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, has also viewed US overtures toward the island with alarm, such as a new de facto embassy there and passage of a law to encourage visits by US officials.

China's military ties with the United States are important and sensitive, Wei said, adding that China will never give up an inch of its territory.

Beijing opposed displays of strength and provocation in the South China Sea by "nations from outside the region" carried out under the pretence of protecting freedom of flight and navigation, he added.

The world's two largest economies needed to deepen high-level ties so as to navigate tension and rein in the risk of inadvertent conflict, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told his Chinese counterpart last week.

Mattis saw firsthand last month how mounting Sino-US friction can undermine military contacts, when Beijing upended plans for him to meet Wei in October.

China has been angered by the US sanctions on its military for buying weapons from Russia, and by what Beijing sees as stepped-up U.S. support for democratic Taiwan, which it claims as sacred territory.

China has also expressed concern after US President Donald Trump said Washington would withdraw from a landmark Cold War-era treaty that eliminated nuclear missiles from Europe because Russia was violating the pact.

China is not a party to that treaty, but Trump has also suggested Beijing's military strength played a role in his decision, which China has described as "completely wrong".

China's army will take action "at any cost" to foil attempts to separate the self-ruled island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own, the country's defence minister said on Thursday.

China's army will take action "at any cost" to foil attempts to separate the self-ruled island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own, the country's defence minister said on Thursday. Beijing has been infuriated by recent US sanctions on its military, one of a growing number of flashpoints in ties with Washington that include a bitter trade war, Taiwan and China's increasingly muscular military posture in the South China Sea. On Monday, the United States sent two warships through the Taiwan Strait in the second such operation this year and the latest in a series of gestures made by the White House in support of democratic Taiwan. "The Taiwan issue is related to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and touches upon China's core interests," Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said at the opening of the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, which China styles as its answer to the annual Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore. "On this issue, it is extremely dangerous to repeatedly challenge China's bottom line. If someone tries to separate out Taiwan (from China), China's army will take the necessary actions at any cost." China-Taiwan relations have deteriorated since the island's President Tsai Ing-wen, of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party, swept to power in 2016. Beijing, which has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, has also viewed US overtures toward the island with alarm, such as a new de facto embassy there and passage of a law to encourage visits by US officials. China's military ties with the United States are important and sensitive, Wei said, adding that China will never give up an inch of its territory. Beijing opposed displays of strength and provocation in the South China Sea by "nations from outside the region" carried out under the pretence of protecting freedom of flight and navigation, he added. The world's two largest economies needed to deepen high-level ties so as to navigate tension and rein in the risk of inadvertent conflict, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told his Chinese counterpart last week. Mattis saw firsthand last month how mounting Sino-US friction can undermine military contacts, when Beijing upended plans for him to meet Wei in October. China has been angered by the US sanctions on its military for buying weapons from Russia, and by what Beijing sees as stepped-up U.S. support for democratic Taiwan, which it claims as sacred territory. China has also expressed concern after US President Donald Trump said Washington would withdraw from a landmark Cold War-era treaty that eliminated nuclear missiles from Europe because Russia was violating the pact. China is not a party to that treaty, but Trump has also suggested Beijing's military strength played a role in his decision, which China has described as "completely wrong".

China says army will act 'at any cost' to prevent Taiwan split

The armies of India and China will resume their annual bilateral military exercise 'Hand in Hand' in December, Army sources said Wednesday.

The drill will be held in China, the sources added.&nbsp;

The last 'Hand-in-Hand' exercise took place in Pune in 2016. However, the drill did not take place in 2017 due to tensions between the two armies over Doklam, where the forces of India and China were locked in a 73-day stand-off.&nbsp;

Doklam, in the Sikkim sector, is a strategically important area which is claimed by Bhutan. India has been acting as security guarantor to the tiny country in the sensitive region.

Post Doklam, India and China have been working to increase cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Wuhan in April.

In August, Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe visited Delhi during which the two sides decided to work towards firming up a new bilateral pact on defence cooperation and agreed to increase interactions between their militaries at multiple levels to avoid Doklam-like standoffs along the disputed border.

In March, Army Chief Bipin Rawat had said the annual India-China military exercise will resume, noting that the relationship between the two countries which had turned "sour" after the Doklam stand-off was now improving.

The "bonhomie" between the two forces was back, Rawat had said.&nbsp;

The armies of India and China will resume their annual bilateral military exercise 'Hand in Hand' in December, Army sources said Wednesday. The drill will be held in China, the sources added.

The armies of India and China will resume their annual bilateral military exercise 'Hand in Hand' in December, Army sources said Wednesday. The drill will be held in China, the sources added. The last 'Hand-in-Hand' exercise took place in Pune in 2016. However, the drill did not take place in 2017 due to tensions between the two armies over Doklam, where the forces of India and China were locked in a 73-day stand-off. Doklam, in the Sikkim sector, is a strategically important area which is claimed by Bhutan. India has been acting as security guarantor to the tiny country in the sensitive region. Post Doklam, India and China have been working to increase cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Wuhan in April. In August, Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe visited Delhi during which the two sides decided to work towards firming up a new bilateral pact on defence cooperation and agreed to increase interactions between their militaries at multiple levels to avoid Doklam-like standoffs along the disputed border. In March, Army Chief Bipin Rawat had said the annual India-China military exercise will resume, noting that the relationship between the two countries which had turned "sour" after the Doklam stand-off was now improving. The "bonhomie" between the two forces was back, Rawat had said.

Armies of India, China to resume annual military drill in December

China and the United States are set to hold high-level talks here on Monday to reduce the spiralling trade and military tensions between the world's two largest economies.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to hold talks with top Chinese leaders and officials in a bid to halt the ongoing trade war in which both countries slapped additional tariffs on billions of dollars of their exports.

Announcing Pompeo's visit, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying last week said that China and the US would exchange views on bilateral ties and regional and international issues of common concern.

US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis too was due to visit but it was cancelled which China said was at the behest of Washington.

The news of cancellation of his visit came after US allegations that Chinese naval ship conducted unsafe manoeuvres near its destroyer Decatur when it passed through the islands off the disputed South China Sea to assert freedom of navigation.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

Pompeo's visit was expected to provide an opportunity to both sides to lower the tensions between them. Besides slapping additional tariffs on Chinese exports, US has also imposed sanctions on a Chinese military unit for securing Russian weapon systems like S-400 missiles and Su-35&nbsp; 
fighters.

Also, ahead of the visit both the countries had heated exchanges. 
US Vice President Mike Pence Thursday accused China of interfering in US internal affairs and elections policies.

Pence said China wants a "different American President" and is using more "proactive and coercive" methods to interfere in America's domestic policies and politics.

China has refuted Pence's allegation terming them as "malicious slander". 
Reacting to Pence's allegations, Hua on Friday said, "the relevant speech made unwarranted accusations against China's domestic and foreign policies and slandered China by claiming that China meddles in US internal affairs and elections".

"It is very ridiculous for the US side to stigmatise its normal exchanges and cooperation with China as China interfering in its internal affairs and elections," she said.

Significantly ahead of Pompeo's visit, Chinese Ambassador to Washington Cui Tiankai said China wants to end the trade war with the US, but that the US position keeps changing "so we don't know exactly what the US would want as priorities".

"We are ready to make a deal. We are ready to make some compromise, but it needs the goodwill from both sides," Cui said in an interview on Wednesday with America's National Public Radio, official Chinese media reported on Friday.

"We want to solve it through negotiation and consultation between the two sides. But in order for the negotiation, the consultation to succeed, we do need goodwill and good faith from both sides," Cui said.

"We offered to reduce the trade deficit of the US States, for instance. And we also presented a very good proposal to the US side about the further reform and opening up in China, some of the so-called structural issues," he said.

"We are ready to work on the issues. Then I think more than once we had some tentative agreement between the two working teams. Then just overnight the tentative agreement was rejected and the demand from US changed. So this is very confusing, and this is making things very difficult," he said.&nbsp;

China and the United States are set to hold high-level talks here on Monday to reduce the spiralling trade and military tensions between the world's two largest economies.

China and the United States are set to hold high-level talks here on Monday to reduce the spiralling trade and military tensions between the world's two largest economies. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to hold talks with top Chinese leaders and officials in a bid to halt the ongoing trade war in which both countries slapped additional tariffs on billions of dollars of their exports. Announcing Pompeo's visit, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying last week said that China and the US would exchange views on bilateral ties and regional and international issues of common concern. US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis too was due to visit but it was cancelled which China said was at the behest of Washington. The news of cancellation of his visit came after US allegations that Chinese naval ship conducted unsafe manoeuvres near its destroyer Decatur when it passed through the islands off the disputed South China Sea to assert freedom of navigation. China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims. Pompeo's visit was expected to provide an opportunity to both sides to lower the tensions between them. Besides slapping additional tariffs on Chinese exports, US has also imposed sanctions on a Chinese military unit for securing Russian weapon systems like S-400 missiles and Su-35 fighters. Also, ahead of the visit both the countries had heated exchanges. US Vice President Mike Pence Thursday accused China of interfering in US internal affairs and elections policies. Pence said China wants a "different American President" and is using more "proactive and coercive" methods to interfere in America's domestic policies and politics. China has refuted Pence's allegation terming them as "malicious slander". Reacting to Pence's allegations, Hua on Friday said, "the relevant speech made unwarranted accusations against China's domestic and foreign policies and slandered China by claiming that China meddles in US internal affairs and elections". "It is very ridiculous for the US side to stigmatise its normal exchanges and cooperation with China as China interfering in its internal affairs and elections," she said. Significantly ahead of Pompeo's visit, Chinese Ambassador to Washington Cui Tiankai said China wants to end the trade war with the US, but that the US position keeps changing "so we don't know exactly what the US would want as priorities". "We are ready to make a deal. We are ready to make some compromise, but it needs the goodwill from both sides," Cui said in an interview on Wednesday with America's National Public Radio, official Chinese media reported on Friday. "We want to solve it through negotiation and consultation between the two sides. But in order for the negotiation, the consultation to succeed, we do need goodwill and good faith from both sides," Cui said. "We offered to reduce the trade deficit of the US States, for instance. And we also presented a very good proposal to the US side about the further reform and opening up in China, some of the so-called structural issues," he said. "We are ready to work on the issues. Then I think more than once we had some tentative agreement between the two working teams. Then just overnight the tentative agreement was rejected and the demand from US changed. So this is very confusing, and this is making things very difficult," he said.

US, China to hold key talks to reduce trade, military tensions

Silencing those who demanded evidence to confirm the 2016 surgical strike, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag&nbsp;on Saturday said videos were not recorded to prove a point to anyone.

In an interview to ANI, Suhag said "Definitely, we carry some means to facilitate our own operations and some of those also have recording devices. When we do an operation we don't think of collecting proof. Instead of a camera, I would give my troops a machine gun. Our footage was not to prove anything to anybody as the details of operation should remain a secret."

Suhag's statement comes in response to allegations leveled by the Congress and other opposition parties, who have been accusing the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government of using the surgical strikes for political gains, and even questioned the authenticity of the strike.

Soon after the strike, Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam, had questioned the authenticity of the government's claim of carrying out surgical strike against terror launch pads along the Line of Control&nbsp;in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati&nbsp;had said that the surgical strike's video which was released in public domain in June was nothing but an attempt by the BJP to distract people

Suhag, who has been part of earlier surgical strikes conducted by the Indian Army, said that the 2016 operation cannot be compared with previous such operations. "Previously, you may call them strikes or raids but you cannot compare those with what we did in September 2016. Previous actions were actually local actions at unit or formation levels. They were single point actions along the LoC and not the across the LoC, and they did not have political approval, whereas the surgical strike that we executed in September 2016 had political approval and they were not along the LoC&nbsp;but across the LoC in enemy territory," he said adding that the strike was not at a single-point target but multipoint targets striking a large number of terror camps in one night.

The former Army chief also lauded Prime Minister Modi for giving political approval to a bold decision. "Firstly, I will give credit to the Prime Minister who gave political approval after due deliberations, and it was a bold decision. I briefed the Prime Minister on 23 September 2016. Secondly, I give credit to my subordinates, my brave officers and soldiers who executed the strikes successfully and made the nation proud."

It was on September 18, 2016, when four Pakistani terrorists attacked the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 19 soldiers. Avenging the attack, on September 29, the Indian Army&nbsp;conducted the surgical strike across LoC&nbsp;destroying terrorist launch pads completely, killing many terrorists, in PoK.

A fresh video of the surgical strike which was released on September 27, showed terror launch pads being bombarded and destroyed by the Indian soldiers. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat recently asserted that another surgical strike should be conducted on terror launch pads across the LoC.

Silencing those who demanded evidence to confirm the 2016 surgical strike, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag on Saturday said videos were not recorded to prove a point to anyone.

Silencing those who demanded evidence to confirm the 2016 surgical strike, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag on Saturday said videos were not recorded to prove a point to anyone. In an interview to ANI, Suhag said "Definitely, we carry some means to facilitate our own operations and some of those also have recording devices. When we do an operation we don't think of collecting proof. Instead of a camera, I would give my troops a machine gun. Our footage was not to prove anything to anybody as the details of operation should remain a secret." Suhag's statement comes in response to allegations leveled by the Congress and other opposition parties, who have been accusing the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government of using the surgical strikes for political gains, and even questioned the authenticity of the strike. Soon after the strike, Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam, had questioned the authenticity of the government's claim of carrying out surgical strike against terror launch pads along the Line of Control in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati had said that the surgical strike's video which was released in public domain in June was nothing but an attempt by the BJP to distract people Suhag, who has been part of earlier surgical strikes conducted by the Indian Army, said that the 2016 operation cannot be compared with previous such operations. "Previously, you may call them strikes or raids but you cannot compare those with what we did in September 2016. Previous actions were actually local actions at unit or formation levels. They were single point actions along the LoC and not the across the LoC, and they did not have political approval, whereas the surgical strike that we executed in September 2016 had political approval and they were not along the LoC but across the LoC in enemy territory," he said adding that the strike was not at a single-point target but multipoint targets striking a large number of terror camps in one night. The former Army chief also lauded Prime Minister Modi for giving political approval to a bold decision. "Firstly, I will give credit to the Prime Minister who gave political approval after due deliberations, and it was a bold decision. I briefed the Prime Minister on 23 September 2016. Secondly, I give credit to my subordinates, my brave officers and soldiers who executed the strikes successfully and made the nation proud." It was on September 18, 2016, when four Pakistani terrorists attacked the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 19 soldiers. Avenging the attack, on September 29, the Indian Army conducted the surgical strike across LoC destroying terrorist launch pads completely, killing many terrorists, in PoK. A fresh video of the surgical strike which was released on September 27, showed terror launch pads being bombarded and destroyed by the Indian soldiers. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat recently asserted that another surgical strike should be conducted on terror launch pads across the LoC.

Troops carry guns, not cameras: Ex-Army chief

China is working to develop a first-class, crack anti-terror force that can operate at home and abroad and protect the country's overseas interests, a senior Chinese officer said in comments carried by state media on Saturday.

In late 2015, China passed a new anti-terrorism law that allows the military to venture overseas on counter-terror operations, though experts have said Beijing faces big practical and diplomatic problems to actually execute such an action.

China says it faces a threat not only from home-grown Islamists in its far western region of Xinjiang, but also from militants in the Middle East, some of whom it says are from Xinjiang.

In November 2015, Islamic State said it had killed a Chinese citizen it had taken hostage in the Middle East.

In an interview with the official Xinhua news agency, Zhang Xiaoqi, intelligence chief at China's paramilitary People's Armed Police which is part of the Chinese military, said developing special forces was an important component of the country's overall military modernisation.

"The mission scope of the special forces stretches from land to sea, from home to abroad," Zhang said.

He said that "anti-terror fight preparations" must be ready to safeguard national strategic interests anywhere.

"We must work hard to build an internationally first-rate counter-terror crack force," Zhang added, without giving details.

China, which has consistently said that it does not interfere in the affairs of other countries, is the only permanent member of the U.N. Security Council which has not taken military action in Syria.

The government is yet to specify how any overseas military, counter-terror operation would work.

China is working to develop a first-class, crack anti-terror force that can operate at home and abroad and protect the country's overseas interests, a senior Chinese officer said in comments carried by state media on Saturday.

China is working to develop a first-class, crack anti-terror force that can operate at home and abroad and protect the country's overseas interests, a senior Chinese officer said in comments carried by state media on Saturday. In late 2015, China passed a new anti-terrorism law that allows the military to venture overseas on counter-terror operations, though experts have said Beijing faces big practical and diplomatic problems to actually execute such an action. China says it faces a threat not only from home-grown Islamists in its far western region of Xinjiang, but also from militants in the Middle East, some of whom it says are from Xinjiang. In November 2015, Islamic State said it had killed a Chinese citizen it had taken hostage in the Middle East. In an interview with the official Xinhua news agency, Zhang Xiaoqi, intelligence chief at China's paramilitary People's Armed Police which is part of the Chinese military, said developing special forces was an important component of the country's overall military modernisation. "The mission scope of the special forces stretches from land to sea, from home to abroad," Zhang said. He said that "anti-terror fight preparations" must be ready to safeguard national strategic interests anywhere. "We must work hard to build an internationally first-rate counter-terror crack force," Zhang added, without giving details. China, which has consistently said that it does not interfere in the affairs of other countries, is the only permanent member of the U.N. Security Council which has not taken military action in Syria. The government is yet to specify how any overseas military, counter-terror operation would work.

China eyes anti-terror force to protect overseas interests

Article 33 of the Constitution is an exception to the Fundamental Rights contained in Part III. It empowers Parliament to restrict or abrogate the Fundamental Rights of certain categories of government servants so as to ensure the proper discharge of their duties and maintenance of discipline amongst them. Besides the three wings of the armed forces, these rights have been abrogated in respect of the members of the police and paramilitary forces, persons employed in intelligence or counter-intelligence services, and communication systems set up for the above organisations.

In exercising the powers conferred by Article 33, Parliament has authorised the Central government to make rules to restrict certain Fundamental Rights of the members of the armed forces. The Central government, exercising its rule-making power under the Army Act, 1950 (and also the Air Force Act), has restricted the rights relating to freedom of speech and expression, freedom of assembly, and freedom to form associations and unions contained in Article 19 of the Constitution. In the case of the Navy, Parliament has done this under section 12 of the Navy Act itself. The Supreme Court has ruled that these rights can be restricted even for personnel with non-combat roles in the armed forces. This appears logical because the armed forces have to be a disciplined organisation.&nbsp;

The question which emerges is whether the Fundamental Rights of the members of the armed forces, other than the three listed under Article 19, can also be abrogated even if they do not have any impact on discipline or the performance of duty.

There have been a number of incidents where military governance in matters of promotion, posting, pay and allowances, conditions of service and pension have been taken up in the Supreme Court. The arbitrariness in the justice delivery systems has also been questioned in several cases. The Delhi High Court held in a recent case: “A soldier or officer’s honour and dignity is as much a part of his right to life; it is to be respected just as much, if not more, for the reason that it is offered unhesitatingly and fully in defending the borders of the nation. Unlike ‘hired guns’ they stand guard so that the rest exercise our liberties. Denying them the right to a safe workplace with standard equipment constitutes violation of their right to life and dignity.”&nbsp;

The fundamental rights have been liberally construed by the Supreme Court in the last five decades, keeping in view the international covenants to which India is a party. For instance, the right to protection of life and personal liberty has received the widest possible interpretation. The Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court has held that access to justice is a fundamental right guaranteed to citizens by Article 14 and Article 21 of the Constitution.

While dealing with the case of Ram Sarup in 1964, the Supreme Court relied on the submission made by the Attorney General that each provision of the Army Act is a law made by Parliament and that if any provision tends to affect the fundamental rights, it must be taken that Parliament, under Article 33, has made the requisite modification to affect the respective fundamental right. This was perhaps a wrong interpretation of the constitutional provision, which has to be reviewed in the context of the march of time and the development of law. A constitutional provision must be construed not in a narrow, constricted sense, but in a wide and liberal manner. 
 
The Supreme Court has often taken the path of least resistance by supporting the military in any controversial case. The courts are generally of the opinion that any adverse comment on military higher-ups may erode discipline in the armed forces. The judiciary believes, in good faith, that by supporting the organisation, they are affording an opportunity to the military hierarchy as well as the government to rectify the defects in governance and the justice delivery system. Thus, in cases of alleged bias, denial of rights or injustice at the hands of a commander, the courts are tempted to rule out the possibility of culpability or malice on the part of the superior.&nbsp;

In Maneka Gandhi case (1978), the Supreme Court observed, “The attempt of the court should be to expand the reach and ambit of the fundamental rights, rather than to attenuate their meaning and content by a process of judicial construction.” In the case Ajay Hasia (1981), the Court declared that it has a special responsibility “to enlarge the range and meaning of the fundamental rights and to advance the human rights jurisprudence”. However, when it comes to the fundamental rights of military personnel, the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the constitutional provision has been very narrow. 
 
The members of the armed forces must be entitled to the same rights and protections as all other persons, subject to certain limitations imposed to maintain discipline. When the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the members of the armed forces are protected within their institution, they will be more likely to uphold these while carrying out their duties.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-protecting-basic-rights-of-military-personnel-2667368">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Article 33 of the Constitution is an exception to the Fundamental Rights contained in Part III. It empowers Parliament to restrict or abrogate the Fundamental Rights of certain categories of government servants so as to ensure the proper discharge of their duties and maintenance of discipline amongst them.

Article 33 of the Constitution is an exception to the Fundamental Rights contained in Part III. It empowers Parliament to restrict or abrogate the Fundamental Rights of certain categories of government servants so as to ensure the proper discharge of their duties and maintenance of discipline amongst them. Besides the three wings of the armed forces, these rights have been abrogated in respect of the members of the police and paramilitary forces, persons employed in intelligence or counter-intelligence services, and communication systems set up for the above organisations. In exercising the powers conferred by Article 33, Parliament has authorised the Central government to make rules to restrict certain Fundamental Rights of the members of the armed forces. The Central government, exercising its rule-making power under the Army Act, 1950 (and also the Air Force Act), has restricted the rights relating to freedom of speech and expression, freedom of assembly, and freedom to form associations and unions contained in Article 19 of the Constitution. In the case of the Navy, Parliament has done this under section 12 of the Navy Act itself. The Supreme Court has ruled that these rights can be restricted even for personnel with non-combat roles in the armed forces. This appears logical because the armed forces have to be a disciplined organisation. The question which emerges is whether the Fundamental Rights of the members of the armed forces, other than the three listed under Article 19, can also be abrogated even if they do not have any impact on discipline or the performance of duty. There have been a number of incidents where military governance in matters of promotion, posting, pay and allowances, conditions of service and pension have been taken up in the Supreme Court. The arbitrariness in the justice delivery systems has also been questioned in several cases. The Delhi High Court held in a recent case: “A soldier or officer’s honour and dignity is as much a part of his right to life; it is to be respected just as much, if not more, for the reason that it is offered unhesitatingly and fully in defending the borders of the nation. Unlike ‘hired guns’ they stand guard so that the rest exercise our liberties. Denying them the right to a safe workplace with standard equipment constitutes violation of their right to life and dignity.” The fundamental rights have been liberally construed by the Supreme Court in the last five decades, keeping in view the international covenants to which India is a party. For instance, the right to protection of life and personal liberty has received the widest possible interpretation. The Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court has held that access to justice is a fundamental right guaranteed to citizens by Article 14 and Article 21 of the Constitution. While dealing with the case of Ram Sarup in 1964, the Supreme Court relied on the submission made by the Attorney General that each provision of the Army Act is a law made by Parliament and that if any provision tends to affect the fundamental rights, it must be taken that Parliament, under Article 33, has made the requisite modification to affect the respective fundamental right. This was perhaps a wrong interpretation of the constitutional provision, which has to be reviewed in the context of the march of time and the development of law. A constitutional provision must be construed not in a narrow, constricted sense, but in a wide and liberal manner. The Supreme Court has often taken the path of least resistance by supporting the military in any controversial case. The courts are generally of the opinion that any adverse comment on military higher-ups may erode discipline in the armed forces. The judiciary believes, in good faith, that by supporting the organisation, they are affording an opportunity to the military hierarchy as well as the government to rectify the defects in governance and the justice delivery system. Thus, in cases of alleged bias, denial of rights or injustice at the hands of a commander, the courts are tempted to rule out the possibility of culpability or malice on the part of the superior. In Maneka Gandhi case (1978), the Supreme Court observed, “The attempt of the court should be to expand the reach and ambit of the fundamental rights, rather than to attenuate their meaning and content by a process of judicial construction.” In the case Ajay Hasia (1981), the Court declared that it has a special responsibility “to enlarge the range and meaning of the fundamental rights and to advance the human rights jurisprudence”. However, when it comes to the fundamental rights of military personnel, the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the constitutional provision has been very narrow. The members of the armed forces must be entitled to the same rights and protections as all other persons, subject to certain limitations imposed to maintain discipline. When the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the members of the armed forces are protected within their institution, they will be more likely to uphold these while carrying out their duties. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Important to protect basic rights of military personnel

The U.S.&nbspmilitary&nbsphas held preliminary discussions about moving a powerful missile defence&nbspsystem&nbspto Germany to boost European defences, according to two&nbspsources familiar with the issue, a move that experts said could trigger fresh tensions with Moscow.

The tentative proposal to send the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)&nbspsystem&nbspto Europe predates U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear accord and comes amid a broader push to strengthen Europe's air and missile defences.

While Europe and the United States are at odds over the fate of the nuclear agreement, they share concerns about Iran continued development of ballistic missiles.

Iran's Shahab 3 missiles can already travel 2,000 km, enough to reach southern Europe, and its Revolutionary Guards have said they will increase the range if threatened since the range is capped by strategic doctrine, not technology constraints.

U.S. European Command has been pushing for a THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspin Europe for years, but the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear accord has added urgency to the issue, said Riki Ellison, head of the non-profit Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance.

A senior German&nbspmilitary&nbspofficial cited the need to add more radars across Europe to better track and monitor potential threats, and cue interceptors if needed.

The U.S. Defense Dept said no such action had been decided.

"There are currently no plans to station THAAD&nbspsystems in Germany. We do not discuss potential future&nbspmilitary&nbspplanning, as we would not want to signal our intent to potential adversaries. Germany remains among our closest partners and strongest allies," said Pentagon spokesman Eric Pahon.

Deploying&nbspanother U.S. defensive&nbspsystem&nbspto Europe could reassure NATO allies in southern Europe already within striking range of Iran's missiles, said one&nbspmilitary&nbspofficial from that region.

Talk of&nbspdeploying&nbspa THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspin Europe also comes against the backdrop of rising tensions between the West and Russia.

NATO has long insisted that its missile defence programme is not directed at Russia, but the alliance has adopted a tougher tone toward Moscow in the wake of the poisoning of a Russian former spy in England.

Moscow denies any involvement in the poisoning and blames the tensions on NATO's&nbspmilitary expansion eastward, and its assembly of a ballistic missile shield with a key site in Romania that was declared combat-ready in 2016.

Moving THAAD to Germany could plug a radar gap caused by a two-year delay in completion of a second Aegis Ashore missile defence site in Poland that was initially due to open this year.

The issue may be raised in a new Pentagon missile defence review expected in early June.

The review may draw a closer connection between missile defence and a need to deter Russia that was highlighted in the new U.S. national defence strategy, said Tom Karako, senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

MESSAGE TO EUROPEAN ALLIES

One U.S.&nbspmilitary&nbspofficial said there had been preliminary talks with German&nbspmilitary&nbspofficials on moving a THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspto Ramstein Air Base in Germany, headquarters for the U.S. Air Force in Europe and NATO Allied Air Command.

"It would be a further political message to the Europeans that we're serious&nbspabout protecting our allies," said the official. "The initial assessment is that Germany would very likely not have a problem with a THAAD deployment," U.S. General Curtis Scaparrotti, head of U.S. European command, last week said he was seeking more troops and equipment to deter Russia, but declined further comment.

A second source said German officials were open to the move as a way to better protect civilian populations.

The German defence ministry is working to rebuild its own short- and medium-range missile defences after years of cuts.

Starting later this year, it also plans to review territorial missile defence needs in a conceptual study that will also look at THAAD and the Arrow 3 anti-missile&nbspsystem&nbspbuilt by Israel and the United States, a spokesman said.

The German foreign ministry, which oversees foreign troops stationed in Germany, said it could not confirm sending any signals about a possible THAAD deployment to the United States.

Washington does not need Germany's permission to move such equipment under existing basing contracts, but the&nbspsources&nbspsaid a formal notification would be sent before any move to proceed.

The THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspis built by Lockheed Martin Corp with a powerful Raytheon Co AN/TPY-2 radar, to shootdown short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

While Europe and the United States are at odds over the fate of the nuclear agreement, they share concerns about Iran continued development of ballistic missiles.

The U.S.&nbspmilitary&nbsphas held preliminary discussions about moving a powerful missile defence&nbspsystem&nbspto Germany to boost European defences, according to two&nbspsources familiar with the issue, a move that experts said could trigger fresh tensions with Moscow. The tentative proposal to send the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)&nbspsystem&nbspto Europe predates U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear accord and comes amid a broader push to strengthen Europe's air and missile defences. While Europe and the United States are at odds over the fate of the nuclear agreement, they share concerns about Iran continued development of ballistic missiles. Iran's Shahab 3 missiles can already travel 2,000 km, enough to reach southern Europe, and its Revolutionary Guards have said they will increase the range if threatened since the range is capped by strategic doctrine, not technology constraints. U.S. European Command has been pushing for a THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspin Europe for years, but the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear accord has added urgency to the issue, said Riki Ellison, head of the non-profit Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance. A senior German&nbspmilitary&nbspofficial cited the need to add more radars across Europe to better track and monitor potential threats, and cue interceptors if needed. The U.S. Defense Dept said no such action had been decided. "There are currently no plans to station THAAD&nbspsystems in Germany. We do not discuss potential future&nbspmilitary&nbspplanning, as we would not want to signal our intent to potential adversaries. Germany remains among our closest partners and strongest allies," said Pentagon spokesman Eric Pahon. Deploying&nbspanother U.S. defensive&nbspsystem&nbspto Europe could reassure NATO allies in southern Europe already within striking range of Iran's missiles, said one&nbspmilitary&nbspofficial from that region. Talk of&nbspdeploying&nbspa THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspin Europe also comes against the backdrop of rising tensions between the West and Russia. NATO has long insisted that its missile defence programme is not directed at Russia, but the alliance has adopted a tougher tone toward Moscow in the wake of the poisoning of a Russian former spy in England. Moscow denies any involvement in the poisoning and blames the tensions on NATO's&nbspmilitary expansion eastward, and its assembly of a ballistic missile shield with a key site in Romania that was declared combat-ready in 2016. Moving THAAD to Germany could plug a radar gap caused by a two-year delay in completion of a second Aegis Ashore missile defence site in Poland that was initially due to open this year. The issue may be raised in a new Pentagon missile defence review expected in early June. The review may draw a closer connection between missile defence and a need to deter Russia that was highlighted in the new U.S. national defence strategy, said Tom Karako, senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. MESSAGE TO EUROPEAN ALLIES One U.S.&nbspmilitary&nbspofficial said there had been preliminary talks with German&nbspmilitary&nbspofficials on moving a THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspto Ramstein Air Base in Germany, headquarters for the U.S. Air Force in Europe and NATO Allied Air Command. "It would be a further political message to the Europeans that we're serious&nbspabout protecting our allies," said the official. "The initial assessment is that Germany would very likely not have a problem with a THAAD deployment," U.S. General Curtis Scaparrotti, head of U.S. European command, last week said he was seeking more troops and equipment to deter Russia, but declined further comment. A second source said German officials were open to the move as a way to better protect civilian populations. The German defence ministry is working to rebuild its own short- and medium-range missile defences after years of cuts. Starting later this year, it also plans to review territorial missile defence needs in a conceptual study that will also look at THAAD and the Arrow 3 anti-missile&nbspsystem&nbspbuilt by Israel and the United States, a spokesman said. The German foreign ministry, which oversees foreign troops stationed in Germany, said it could not confirm sending any signals about a possible THAAD deployment to the United States. Washington does not need Germany's permission to move such equipment under existing basing contracts, but the&nbspsources&nbspsaid a formal notification would be sent before any move to proceed. The THAAD&nbspsystem&nbspis built by Lockheed Martin Corp with a powerful Raytheon Co AN/TPY-2 radar, to shootdown short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

Exclusive: US military looking at deploying anti-missile system in Germany: sources

The Pakistan Army is said to be 'extremely upset' with former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's alleged admission that Pakistan had a significant role to play in the terrorist attacks that took place across Mumbai between November 26 and 29, 2008, which claimed the lives of 166 persons and injured more than 300.

It may be recalled that on Saturday evening, in an interview given to the Dawn newspaper, Sharif suggested terrorists from Pakistan had "crossed the border" to attack Mumbai and added that such terror strikes could have been prevented.

In the interview, Sharif said, "Militant organisations (in Pakistan) are active. Call them non-state actors, should we allow them to cross the border and kill 150 people in Mumbai? Explain it to me. Why can't we complete the trial?"

Sharif, however, did not name Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed or known terrorist outfits Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamaat-ud-Dawah and Jaish-e-Mohammad that the international community clearly acknowledges as operating from Pakistan soil with impunity in the interview.

Sharif also lamented that Pakistan had isolated itself. He seemed to suggest that Islamabad should look into why its narrative that "it had been fighting terrorism had not been accepted by the international community despite sacrifices".

Sharif's statement has, according to sources, left the Pakistan Army extremely worried that "this will give more weight to India's narrative that Pakistan is not doing enough" to rein in terrorist modules operating from its soil, and particularly from areas in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

According to sources, the top brass of the army is particularly concerned about "Sharif's statement tilting the balance sufficiently enough to put Pakistan in the blacklist of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a Paris-based inter-governmental organisation founded in 1989 on the initiative of the Group of Seven (G-7) nations to develop policies to combat money laundering. Pakistan is already on the grey list for the last three months.

According to sources, Sharif is reportedly under pressure from his ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party and the army to retract his statement immediately or issue a clarification. However, there is no indication by the latter that he will do so.

Various media reports are saying that the Pakistan Army is expected to hold a high-level meeting on Monday to discuss what it described as a "recent misleading media statement" about the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

The spokesman of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet on Sunday that the National Security Committee (NSC), consisting of Pakistan's top civil and military leadership, will meet under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi today to discuss key national issues.

"The NSC meeting suggested to Prime Minister to discuss recent misleading media statement regarding Bombay incident. Being held tomorrow morning," said Major General Ghafoor in his tweet on Sunday.

New Delhi has long held and accused the Lashkar-e-Taiba of carrying out the attacks in Mumbai in 2008 with the help of ten well-armed terrorists. These attackers arrived on boat from Karachi and according to the Indian government, carried out the violent strikes across Mumbai in coordination with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency.

The 26/11 case is being tried in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan since 2009, but has hardly made any progress.

India maintains that Pakistan has not kept its end of the bargain and sent the case to court without really investigating the conspiracy that led to the attacks.

Islamabad, however, squarely blames New Delhi for not providing it with "solid evidence" against prime accused Hafiz Saeed and others.

"Sharif's apparently conciliatory remark on the state's role in terrorism may not result in a concrete shift in Pakistan's position.&nbsp;

Sharif had suggested, in an interview given to Dawn newspaper, that terrorists from Pakistan had 'crossed the border' to attack Mumbai. He added that such terror strikes could have been prevented.

The Pakistan Army is said to be 'extremely upset' with former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's alleged admission that Pakistan had a significant role to play in the terrorist attacks that took place across Mumbai between November 26 and 29, 2008, which claimed the lives of 166 persons and injured more than 300. It may be recalled that on Saturday evening, in an interview given to the Dawn newspaper, Sharif suggested terrorists from Pakistan had "crossed the border" to attack Mumbai and added that such terror strikes could have been prevented. In the interview, Sharif said, "Militant organisations (in Pakistan) are active. Call them non-state actors, should we allow them to cross the border and kill 150 people in Mumbai? Explain it to me. Why can't we complete the trial?" Sharif, however, did not name Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed or known terrorist outfits Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamaat-ud-Dawah and Jaish-e-Mohammad that the international community clearly acknowledges as operating from Pakistan soil with impunity in the interview. Sharif also lamented that Pakistan had isolated itself. He seemed to suggest that Islamabad should look into why its narrative that "it had been fighting terrorism had not been accepted by the international community despite sacrifices". Sharif's statement has, according to sources, left the Pakistan Army extremely worried that "this will give more weight to India's narrative that Pakistan is not doing enough" to rein in terrorist modules operating from its soil, and particularly from areas in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to sources, the top brass of the army is particularly concerned about "Sharif's statement tilting the balance sufficiently enough to put Pakistan in the blacklist of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a Paris-based inter-governmental organisation founded in 1989 on the initiative of the Group of Seven (G-7) nations to develop policies to combat money laundering. Pakistan is already on the grey list for the last three months. According to sources, Sharif is reportedly under pressure from his ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party and the army to retract his statement immediately or issue a clarification. However, there is no indication by the latter that he will do so. Various media reports are saying that the Pakistan Army is expected to hold a high-level meeting on Monday to discuss what it described as a "recent misleading media statement" about the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. The spokesman of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet on Sunday that the National Security Committee (NSC), consisting of Pakistan's top civil and military leadership, will meet under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi today to discuss key national issues. "The NSC meeting suggested to Prime Minister to discuss recent misleading media statement regarding Bombay incident. Being held tomorrow morning," said Major General Ghafoor in his tweet on Sunday. New Delhi has long held and accused the Lashkar-e-Taiba of carrying out the attacks in Mumbai in 2008 with the help of ten well-armed terrorists. These attackers arrived on boat from Karachi and according to the Indian government, carried out the violent strikes across Mumbai in coordination with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency. The 26/11 case is being tried in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan since 2009, but has hardly made any progress. India maintains that Pakistan has not kept its end of the bargain and sent the case to court without really investigating the conspiracy that led to the attacks. Islamabad, however, squarely blames New Delhi for not providing it with "solid evidence" against prime accused Hafiz Saeed and others. "Sharif's apparently conciliatory remark on the state's role in terrorism may not result in a concrete shift in Pakistan's position.

Pak Army 'extremely upset' with Sharif's admission country played role in 26/11

Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa suggested ways of achieving peace and prosperity in Pakistan through military cooperations with India, as per reports by UK-based think-tank Royal Unites Services Institute (RUSI).&nbsp;

As per the report, General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March.&nbsp;

After two weeks, General Bajwa reportedly said that he wanted peace and dialogue with India. Bajwa while addressing a passing-out parade of cadets said, "That only through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue a solution could be found for the disputes between the two countries", as quoted by European think-tank European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS).

This came following Indian army Chief General Bipin Rawat's statement of April 15 saying that peace is the only solution to improve the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and it could be ensured through a dialogue between India and Pakistan.

He said that Islamabad “remains committed to such a dialogue, but only on the basis of sovereign equality, dignity and honour.”

The peaceful resolution of India-Pakistan disputes, including the core issue of Kashmir, can be found through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue, Bajwa had said earlier.

Moreover, the report further mentioned that that senior Pakistani officer Lieutenant General Aamir Riaz headed the first ever high-level contact group with India as Director-General Military Operations.

The report added that another top officer, Major General Ahmed Hayat, the Director General of analysis wing of the Inter-Services-Intelligence (ISI), authored the so-called "India Plan" in 2013, which tried to ascertain how and when Pakistan should approach India, suggesting that Pakistan military would approach India after Islamabad strengthened it defence diplomacy without pressure or threats from Washington DC.

"It is a no-brainer that one cannot live in an environment of perpetual enmity with a neighbour six times your size, but the indicators have to be right," he said.

The report further said that with a sustained approach by the Pakistan military to India, it could only be a matter of time before New Delhi agrees to at least talk to Islamabad for improving relations and pressing for peace and stability.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)

As per the report, General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March

Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa suggested ways of achieving peace and prosperity in Pakistan through military cooperations with India, as per reports by UK-based think-tank Royal Unites Services Institute (RUSI). As per the report, General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March. After two weeks, General Bajwa reportedly said that he wanted peace and dialogue with India. Bajwa while addressing a passing-out parade of cadets said, "That only through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue a solution could be found for the disputes between the two countries", as quoted by European think-tank European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS). This came following Indian army Chief General Bipin Rawat's statement of April 15 saying that peace is the only solution to improve the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and it could be ensured through a dialogue between India and Pakistan. He said that Islamabad “remains committed to such a dialogue, but only on the basis of sovereign equality, dignity and honour.” The peaceful resolution of India-Pakistan disputes, including the core issue of Kashmir, can be found through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue, Bajwa had said earlier. Moreover, the report further mentioned that that senior Pakistani officer Lieutenant General Aamir Riaz headed the first ever high-level contact group with India as Director-General Military Operations. The report added that another top officer, Major General Ahmed Hayat, the Director General of analysis wing of the Inter-Services-Intelligence (ISI), authored the so-called "India Plan" in 2013, which tried to ascertain how and when Pakistan should approach India, suggesting that Pakistan military would approach India after Islamabad strengthened it defence diplomacy without pressure or threats from Washington DC. "It is a no-brainer that one cannot live in an environment of perpetual enmity with a neighbour six times your size, but the indicators have to be right," he said. The report further said that with a sustained approach by the Pakistan military to India, it could only be a matter of time before New Delhi agrees to at least talk to Islamabad for improving relations and pressing for peace and stability. (With ANI inputs)

Pakistan can achieve peace and prosperity through military talks with India: General Bajwa

The Syrian army unleashed a massive bombardment against one rebel enclave on Monday and prepared for the withdrawal of insurgents from another as President Bashar al-Assad pushes to crush the rebels' last besieged strongholds.

However, missile strikes against several government military bases on Sunday - not claimed by any party despite speculation in Israel that its military was responsible - underscored the risks of a wider escalation in the seven-year conflict.

More than 140 Syrian army air strikes hit the town of Rastan and surrounding villages in the rebel enclave between the cities of Hama and Homs early on Monday alongside sustained shelling, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said.

Last week a Syrian government minister said the enclave would be the army's next target after retaking all rebel areas around the capital, a goal it looks closer to achieving with Monday's expected insurgent withdrawal from south Damascus.

Despite Assad's ever-stronger position against rebels since Russia's entry into the war in 2015 brought a string of battlefield victories, the involvement of numerous regional and global powers threatens to inflame the war further.

Nobody has claimed responsibility for the missile attacks that struck several bases near Hama and Aleppo overnight, causing large explosions, and the Syrian army has blamed only "aggression" by its enemies.

However, Israel has previously carried out strikes in Syria to stop Assad's ally Iran getting stronger there or transferring weapons to the Lebanese group Hezbollah, and there is widespread speculation in Israel that it was behind the attack.

Israel's Intelligence Minister Israel Katz would not comment on the strikes, but added that Israel "has made it unequivocally clear at all levels that it will not allow an Iranian front in Syria to be established".

A spokesman for Israel's military said it would not comment on foreign reports. But Amos Yadlin, a former head of Israeli military intelligence, said Israel was likely behind the strikes.

"Israel has to decide: 'are we confronting Iran in Syria before they have the full advanced weapons capabilities' ... or do we wait ... let them build a huge military capability in Syria and meet them in a future war and pay a very high price?"

Diplomats have warned of a possible major escalation between Israel and Iran in Syria as Assad and his allies take more territory from rebels.

The United States, Jordan and Assad's main ally Russia have declared a ceasefire zone in southwest Syria, near the border with Israel, and on Monday Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington's strategy there "remains unchanged".

The Observatory said at least 26 people - mostly Iranians and members of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia - were killed in Sunday's strikes, and that dozens more people were missing.

Speaking in Israel on Sunday, Pompeo said the United States was "deeply concerned about Iran's dangerous escalation of threats towards Israel and the region" and said it was critical for the two allies to work together to stop it.

Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency said no Iranian base had been hit or Iranians killed. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a senior Iranian member of parliament met Assad on Monday and said Iran would keep its military advisers in Syria until the war ended.

Tehran and its allies blamed Israel for an April 9 air strike on the Tiyas air base in Syria, in which several Iranian military personnel were killed, and Iran has warned it would not go "without response".

ASSAULT

The Syrian army's assault on the pocket between Homs and Hama - the most populous remaining besieged area in Syria - included air strikes and artillery, said the Britain-based Observatory.

Reinforcements arrived in government-held areas before the bombardment, which targeted Rastan, the biggest town in the pocket, and several nearby villages, the Observatory said.

Syrian rebels hold large swathes of both northwest and southwest Syria. An alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by the United States holds large parts of northern and eastern Syria after an offensive against Islamic State last year.

The pocket in southern Damascus is split between areas held by Islamic State and rebel groups. It has been the focus of a massive bombardment and intense fighting since the Syrian army recaptured eastern Ghouta earlier this month.

Late on Sunday, state media reported that one of the rebel groups there, the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which includes Syria's former al-Qaeda affiliate, had agreed to withdraw to opposition-held Idlib province in northern Syria.

Footage on state television on Monday showed what it said was preparations for that withdrawal, along with the departure of buses in northern Syria to evacuate civilians from two government-held villages besieged by insurgents.

The surrender deal for Tahrir al-Sham in south Damascus was part of a deal to allow about 5,000 people to leave the two government-held Shi'ite villages, al-Foua and Kefraya, it said.

However, SANA state news agency reported continued intensive bombardment of al-Hajar al-Aswad, another area in the south Damascus pocket where Islamic State fighters are based.

No one has as yet claimed responsibility for the strikes

The Syrian army unleashed a massive bombardment against one rebel enclave on Monday and prepared for the withdrawal of insurgents from another as President Bashar al-Assad pushes to crush the rebels' last besieged strongholds. However, missile strikes against several government military bases on Sunday - not claimed by any party despite speculation in Israel that its military was responsible - underscored the risks of a wider escalation in the seven-year conflict. More than 140 Syrian army air strikes hit the town of Rastan and surrounding villages in the rebel enclave between the cities of Hama and Homs early on Monday alongside sustained shelling, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said. Last week a Syrian government minister said the enclave would be the army's next target after retaking all rebel areas around the capital, a goal it looks closer to achieving with Monday's expected insurgent withdrawal from south Damascus. Despite Assad's ever-stronger position against rebels since Russia's entry into the war in 2015 brought a string of battlefield victories, the involvement of numerous regional and global powers threatens to inflame the war further. Nobody has claimed responsibility for the missile attacks that struck several bases near Hama and Aleppo overnight, causing large explosions, and the Syrian army has blamed only "aggression" by its enemies. However, Israel has previously carried out strikes in Syria to stop Assad's ally Iran getting stronger there or transferring weapons to the Lebanese group Hezbollah, and there is widespread speculation in Israel that it was behind the attack. Israel's Intelligence Minister Israel Katz would not comment on the strikes, but added that Israel "has made it unequivocally clear at all levels that it will not allow an Iranian front in Syria to be established". A spokesman for Israel's military said it would not comment on foreign reports. But Amos Yadlin, a former head of Israeli military intelligence, said Israel was likely behind the strikes. "Israel has to decide: 'are we confronting Iran in Syria before they have the full advanced weapons capabilities' ... or do we wait ... let them build a huge military capability in Syria and meet them in a future war and pay a very high price?" Diplomats have warned of a possible major escalation between Israel and Iran in Syria as Assad and his allies take more territory from rebels. The United States, Jordan and Assad's main ally Russia have declared a ceasefire zone in southwest Syria, near the border with Israel, and on Monday Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington's strategy there "remains unchanged". The Observatory said at least 26 people - mostly Iranians and members of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia - were killed in Sunday's strikes, and that dozens more people were missing. Speaking in Israel on Sunday, Pompeo said the United States was "deeply concerned about Iran's dangerous escalation of threats towards Israel and the region" and said it was critical for the two allies to work together to stop it. Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency said no Iranian base had been hit or Iranians killed. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a senior Iranian member of parliament met Assad on Monday and said Iran would keep its military advisers in Syria until the war ended. Tehran and its allies blamed Israel for an April 9 air strike on the Tiyas air base in Syria, in which several Iranian military personnel were killed, and Iran has warned it would not go "without response". ASSAULT The Syrian army's assault on the pocket between Homs and Hama - the most populous remaining besieged area in Syria - included air strikes and artillery, said the Britain-based Observatory. Reinforcements arrived in government-held areas before the bombardment, which targeted Rastan, the biggest town in the pocket, and several nearby villages, the Observatory said. Syrian rebels hold large swathes of both northwest and southwest Syria. An alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by the United States holds large parts of northern and eastern Syria after an offensive against Islamic State last year. The pocket in southern Damascus is split between areas held by Islamic State and rebel groups. It has been the focus of a massive bombardment and intense fighting since the Syrian army recaptured eastern Ghouta earlier this month. Late on Sunday, state media reported that one of the rebel groups there, the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which includes Syria's former al-Qaeda affiliate, had agreed to withdraw to opposition-held Idlib province in northern Syria. Footage on state television on Monday showed what it said was preparations for that withdrawal, along with the departure of buses in northern Syria to evacuate civilians from two government-held villages besieged by insurgents. The surrender deal for Tahrir al-Sham in south Damascus was part of a deal to allow about 5,000 people to leave the two government-held Shi'ite villages, al-Foua and Kefraya, it said. However, SANA state news agency reported continued intensive bombardment of al-Hajar al-Aswad, another area in the south Damascus pocket where Islamic State fighters are based.

Missiles strike Syrian Army sites, speculation is that Israel might be responsible

Militarism and militancy are not going to ensure a better future for Pakistan, said former Pakistan&nbsp;Ambassador to the United States Husain Haqqani on Tuesday.

Talking to ANI, the former Pakistan&nbsp;diplomat talked about Pakistani military's intervention in politics, terrorism, Pashtun uprising and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Maintaining that Pakistan&nbsp;military is not trained to intervene in the country's politics, Haqqani said military interventions in Pakistan&nbsp;politics have resulted in political chaos.

"Military interventions going back to 1958 have only brought war, destruction, or political chaos in the country. Pakistan&nbsp;people will start loving their military when it stops interfering and intervening in politics. If public opinion in Pakistan becomes so critical of the military's role in politics that the military realizes that its interventions are not acceptable to the people then the military's behaviour will also have to change," Haqqani said.

The Pakistan&nbsp;military has historically been interfering in the country's politics and has dethroned democratically elected governments many times.

Talking about jihadi elements getting safe havens in Pakistan, the former diplomat said, "As far as militants and jihadi outfits are concerned, they have already brought Pakistan on the brink of global sanctions. I think it is time to get rid of militancy without any conditions and Pakistani people can demand of their government action against militants."

Haqqani said it is high time that Pakistan corrects its pro-terror image in the world.

"Terrorism has become an issue that is now not only hurting India, Pakistan relations but also US-Pakistan relations. Many other countries are also becoming negative in their approach to Pakistan. So, Pakistan will have to change that perception around the world," Haqqani said.

He also said that Pakistan also needs to take action against Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) co-founder and Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JUD) Hafiz Saeed as people like him do not bring pride to Pakistan.

"When somebody (Hafiz Saeed) has been declared a terrorist by the global community then all countries should act against such a person and Pakistan also needs to take steps that will redeem it in the eyes of the world. International opinion should not be flouted in the manner it has been by Pakistan in relation to Hafiz Saeed," Haqqani said.

Replying a question about Saeed's foray into politics, Haqqani hoped that Saeed does not make it to Parliament in Pakistan and said efforts to "mainstream a terrorist" is going to be problematic for Pakistan in terms of its relations with several countries of the world.

He said Saeed's political face 'the Milli Muslim League' has been recognized by the US as another name for the LeT.

"As far as the Milli Muslim League is concerned, the United States has just recognized it as another name for Lashkar-e-Taiba. One can keep changing the name many times but unless you change your actions, changing names will not change reality."

Expressing his views about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Haqqani said China's investment in Pakistan is strategic so Islamabad should be alert as to not become indebted to China.

"China considers Pakistan as its strategic instrument for keeping in check India's ambitions in Asia. It also considers Pakistan as a secondary deterrent. Therefore, China's investment in Pakistan is strategic. That said, China does have a very capitalistic outlook right now. And, once they have invested heavily in, they will not go back without having their pound of flesh as they did in Sri Lanka in the case of Hambantota port," Haqqani said.

He added that Pakistan will get benefit out of the CPEC if it has a strong economic base.

"If Pakistan ends up becoming highly indebted to China, without creating jobs for its own people, then the CPEC will end up becoming a liability rather than an asset."

Talking about Pashtun movement in Pakistan, the former Pakistani diplomat said Pashtuns are not foreign agents as being alleged by the government but people who have been deprived of their just rights.

"Pashtuns have acted totally spontaneously and without any serious political organisation and that basically shows how a young Pakistani population is quite disgruntled with the situation they face. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement leaders are being termed as traitors and foreign agents. They are not foreign agents but they are people facing injustice and standing up for their rights," Haqqani said.

He also said that there will be many movements like Pashtun Tahafuz across Pakistan because Pakistani state has ignored too many people within the country to pursue objectives that have nothing to do with providing education, healthcare and justice to the poorest of poor.

Haqqani, who has written a book titled 'Reimagining Pakistan', said Pakistan should actually become a pragmatic state instead of an ideological nation that it has been trying to become from the last 70 years.

He said priorities of Pakistani people are being ignored due to religion-based ideology.

"The problem with having a religion based ideology and an ideology that envisages the country's largest neighbour (India) as the permanent enemy is that peoples' priorities get ignored," Haqqani said.

The diplomat turned author said instead of being obsessed with religion and with India as enemy, Pakistan should look after its own people as the nation with world's sixth largest has its economy on the 42nd number in the world.

The former Pakistan diplomat talked about Pakistan military's intervention in politics, terrorism, Pashtun uprising and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

Militarism and militancy are not going to ensure a better future for Pakistan, said former Pakistan Ambassador to the United States Husain Haqqani on Tuesday. Talking to ANI, the former Pakistan diplomat talked about Pakistani military's intervention in politics, terrorism, Pashtun uprising and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Maintaining that Pakistan military is not trained to intervene in the country's politics, Haqqani said military interventions in Pakistan politics have resulted in political chaos. "Military interventions going back to 1958 have only brought war, destruction, or political chaos in the country. Pakistan people will start loving their military when it stops interfering and intervening in politics. If public opinion in Pakistan becomes so critical of the military's role in politics that the military realizes that its interventions are not acceptable to the people then the military's behaviour will also have to change," Haqqani said. The Pakistan military has historically been interfering in the country's politics and has dethroned democratically elected governments many times. Talking about jihadi elements getting safe havens in Pakistan, the former diplomat said, "As far as militants and jihadi outfits are concerned, they have already brought Pakistan on the brink of global sanctions. I think it is time to get rid of militancy without any conditions and Pakistani people can demand of their government action against militants." Haqqani said it is high time that Pakistan corrects its pro-terror image in the world. "Terrorism has become an issue that is now not only hurting India, Pakistan relations but also US-Pakistan relations. Many other countries are also becoming negative in their approach to Pakistan. So, Pakistan will have to change that perception around the world," Haqqani said. He also said that Pakistan also needs to take action against Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) co-founder and Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JUD) Hafiz Saeed as people like him do not bring pride to Pakistan. "When somebody (Hafiz Saeed) has been declared a terrorist by the global community then all countries should act against such a person and Pakistan also needs to take steps that will redeem it in the eyes of the world. International opinion should not be flouted in the manner it has been by Pakistan in relation to Hafiz Saeed," Haqqani said. Replying a question about Saeed's foray into politics, Haqqani hoped that Saeed does not make it to Parliament in Pakistan and said efforts to "mainstream a terrorist" is going to be problematic for Pakistan in terms of its relations with several countries of the world. He said Saeed's political face 'the Milli Muslim League' has been recognized by the US as another name for the LeT. "As far as the Milli Muslim League is concerned, the United States has just recognized it as another name for Lashkar-e-Taiba. One can keep changing the name many times but unless you change your actions, changing names will not change reality." Expressing his views about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Haqqani said China's investment in Pakistan is strategic so Islamabad should be alert as to not become indebted to China. "China considers Pakistan as its strategic instrument for keeping in check India's ambitions in Asia. It also considers Pakistan as a secondary deterrent. Therefore, China's investment in Pakistan is strategic. That said, China does have a very capitalistic outlook right now. And, once they have invested heavily in, they will not go back without having their pound of flesh as they did in Sri Lanka in the case of Hambantota port," Haqqani said. He added that Pakistan will get benefit out of the CPEC if it has a strong economic base. "If Pakistan ends up becoming highly indebted to China, without creating jobs for its own people, then the CPEC will end up becoming a liability rather than an asset." Talking about Pashtun movement in Pakistan, the former Pakistani diplomat said Pashtuns are not foreign agents as being alleged by the government but people who have been deprived of their just rights. "Pashtuns have acted totally spontaneously and without any serious political organisation and that basically shows how a young Pakistani population is quite disgruntled with the situation they face. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement leaders are being termed as traitors and foreign agents. They are not foreign agents but they are people facing injustice and standing up for their rights," Haqqani said. He also said that there will be many movements like Pashtun Tahafuz across Pakistan because Pakistani state has ignored too many people within the country to pursue objectives that have nothing to do with providing education, healthcare and justice to the poorest of poor. Haqqani, who has written a book titled 'Reimagining Pakistan', said Pakistan should actually become a pragmatic state instead of an ideological nation that it has been trying to become from the last 70 years. He said priorities of Pakistani people are being ignored due to religion-based ideology. "The problem with having a religion based ideology and an ideology that envisages the country's largest neighbour (India) as the permanent enemy is that peoples' priorities get ignored," Haqqani said. The diplomat turned author said instead of being obsessed with religion and with India as enemy, Pakistan should look after its own people as the nation with world's sixth largest has its economy on the 42nd number in the world.

'Military interventions in Pakistan politics have resulted in political chaos,' says ex-Pakistan Ambassador to US

The Rohingya crisis has put Bangladesh in the most difficult of positions. The international community has extended solidarity to Bangladesh but beyond that, there has been little financial assistance with when it comes rehabilitating the very large population - 1,000,000 - of Rohingya currently taking refuge in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Nor has Myanmar been held accountable for its actions.&nbsp;

Until the apartheid in Myanmar is dismantled and the country's government held accountable for the atrocities that have been committed, repatriation of the Rohingya will not be sustainable. WION's Bangladesh bureau chief Saad Hammadi speaks to Dr Gowher Rizvi, international affairs advisor to Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

WION: Dr Rizvi, thank you for speaking to WION. I would first like to ask you how you feel about the response from the international community?

Gowher Rizvi: At one level the response of the international community has been most heartening. In a sense there is hardly a country in the world which has not condemned Myanmar and has not supported and appreciated the gesture of Bangladesh in taking in about a million Myanmar refugees into the country. To that extent we are really pleased. However, just verbal support is not enough. We know that Myanmar is stubborn. It has no intention of moving away from its position. The only way to be moved is when pressure is brought on. Myanmar is playing a very skilful game. Whenever there is some discussion in the United Nations, whenever there is a possibility that this will be raised in some international forum, some movement takes place but the real test is the repatriation of the refugees back to Myanmar. No progress has been made there. Unfortunately, the international community has not taken sterner measures without which nothing seems to happen.

WION: With regard to the geopolitics in this area, Bangladesh's closest allies are India and China. How do you feel about their responses?

Gowher Rizvi: We have been in conversation both with China and India. We are really satisfied and happy with their responses. One thing which is very important to realise is that every country has multiple interests, multiple priorities. For India or China, Rohingya issue or Bangladesh or Myanmar cannot be the only issue. They have to balance many of their other interests. Secondly, we know we have excellent relationship with India and with China. We do not want to put India or China in a position where we say you are with us or against us. That is not how diplomacy is played out. They have offered their help, they are using their influence, they are bringing subtle pressures and we are working hand in hand. I believe both of them are working in the right direction, although as I said, we are now reaching a point where we have to perhaps move beyond closed room diplomacy to some real hard international actions.

WION: You have referred to more pressure being exerted on Myanmar to create the conditions for the repatriation to take place. What do you feel should be the immediate actions?

Gowher Rizvi: For first, Myanmar must accept international observers, must accept international humanitarian organisations, the UN agency, International Committee for Red Cross, International Organisation for Migration, who will be there on the ground to monitor the situation, to make sure that the environment is safe and free for the Rohingyas to return. Unless that happens, no refugee will willingly go back to face the same brutality, massacre, genocide that they escaped from in August and September.

WION: Very recently, you have also mentioned sanctions. Will you tell us more about what you meant?

Gowher Rizvi: It is very obvious. We know that there was a sanction against Myanmar to bring its hardline military rulers to behave and those sanctions were lifted as a response to the state counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in the hope that there would be democracy, there would be opening of the Myanmar society and Myanmar would behave as a responsible member of the international community. Sadly, Myanmar took all the concessions but has not moved. The military still controls, the elected leaders wield very little power. In these circumstances our expectation that the removal of sanctions will enable democracy to flourish has not happened and as a matter of fact it has encouraged the military to launch this campaign of genocide, ethnic cleansing, the worst of its kind that we can remember. It is now time for countries to reconsider posing economic sanctions, military sanctions, travel restrictions, stopping foreign investment, denying access of market to Myanmar products. When these things happen, the military in Myanmar will come to senses. Until then I fear these will be all empty talks. Myanmar knows that after a while the global attention will shift somewhere else. Please remember, this is a very well designed, carefully planned genocide to push an entire ethnic group out of the country and we need to be very careful and remember that. I also believe we need to document all the egregious human rights violations that are taking place, the genocide that has taken place. At some point, I hope these human rights organisations, Human Rights Watch and so forth, will take these to the International Criminal Court of Justice.&nbsp;

WION: Clearly that would be the real test of humanity for the international community. While the Rohingya community have moved here to Bangladesh, in the southern Cox's Bazar, the monsoon is also approaching. A landslide could take place, how challenging will it be to avoid a catastrophe?

Gowher Rizvi: As you can see, Bangladesh is a very small country, extremely congested, by far the most densely populated country in the world. Despite that we have taken in a million people and opened up whatever we have, whatever little land that was available. We have housed them, we are feeding them, we are providing healthcare and we are providing security. Bangladesh is doing and will continue to do everything within its power. There is indeed the danger of mudslide because the terrain is such that there is going to be a mudslide. That is why we are also trying to make an alternative arrangement in a neighbouring island so that those who are most vulnerable can be safely evacuated there and in conditions which are habitable, which are up to the standards, meets the necessities of the refugees. We are doing everything we can. I think the international community, rather than focusing on Bangladesh and what more can Bangladesh do, should be looking into Myanmar. Bangladesh did not create this problem. The problem was created by Myanmar. The solution lies in Myanmar. Therefore, we should be looking there. As far as our prime minister is concerned, she has really done a very humane thing, a courageous thing to take them in. She has promised that she wants them to voluntarily go back. We are not pushing them. We have upheld the highest level of international and humanitarian law. And we will continue to do. I do believe the focus needs to be on Myanmar where the problem is.

I think we have to also be aware of the larger issues. What we are seeing today is a dictatorial, tyrannical regime ousting an entire ethnic community from the soils of Myanmar and if the global community accepts this, then I fear there will be upheaval in many corners. There are minorities in every country. Minorities in every country will come under threat. We need to be very mindful of that and we should not allow any country to get away with it. There is another thing that we need to be thinking about. This camp of a million people is a potential for recruitment of extremists. We are protecting it, we are making sure no such thing happens. But over years, as we have seen in other camps, this becomes a breeding ground for terrorists. If that happens, our entire region, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Thailand, none of us will be safe. The stakes are really high and we must move as fast as possible to make sure the root cause is eliminated.&nbsp;

Watch the full interview below:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hqhPmIu3gtc" width="560"></iframe>

Gowher Rizvi, international affairs adviser to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, spoke to WION's Bangladesh bureau chief Saad Hammadi

The Rohingya crisis has put Bangladesh in the most difficult of positions. The international community has extended solidarity to Bangladesh but beyond that, there has been little financial assistance with when it comes rehabilitating the very large population - 1,000,000 - of Rohingya currently taking refuge in Bangladesh. Nor has Myanmar been held accountable for its actions. Until the apartheid in Myanmar is dismantled and the country's government held accountable for the atrocities that have been committed, repatriation of the Rohingya will not be sustainable. WION's Bangladesh bureau chief Saad Hammadi speaks to Dr Gowher Rizvi, international affairs advisor to Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. WION: Dr Rizvi, thank you for speaking to WION. I would first like to ask you how you feel about the response from the international community? Gowher Rizvi: At one level the response of the international community has been most heartening. In a sense there is hardly a country in the world which has not condemned Myanmar and has not supported and appreciated the gesture of Bangladesh in taking in about a million Myanmar refugees into the country. To that extent we are really pleased. However, just verbal support is not enough. We know that Myanmar is stubborn. It has no intention of moving away from its position. The only way to be moved is when pressure is brought on. Myanmar is playing a very skilful game. Whenever there is some discussion in the United Nations, whenever there is a possibility that this will be raised in some international forum, some movement takes place but the real test is the repatriation of the refugees back to Myanmar. No progress has been made there. Unfortunately, the international community has not taken sterner measures without which nothing seems to happen. WION: With regard to the geopolitics in this area, Bangladesh's closest allies are India and China. How do you feel about their responses? Gowher Rizvi: We have been in conversation both with China and India. We are really satisfied and happy with their responses. One thing which is very important to realise is that every country has multiple interests, multiple priorities. For India or China, Rohingya issue or Bangladesh or Myanmar cannot be the only issue. They have to balance many of their other interests. Secondly, we know we have excellent relationship with India and with China. We do not want to put India or China in a position where we say you are with us or against us. That is not how diplomacy is played out. They have offered their help, they are using their influence, they are bringing subtle pressures and we are working hand in hand. I believe both of them are working in the right direction, although as I said, we are now reaching a point where we have to perhaps move beyond closed room diplomacy to some real hard international actions. WION: You have referred to more pressure being exerted on Myanmar to create the conditions for the repatriation to take place. What do you feel should be the immediate actions? Gowher Rizvi: For first, Myanmar must accept international observers, must accept international humanitarian organisations, the UN agency, International Committee for Red Cross, International Organisation for Migration, who will be there on the ground to monitor the situation, to make sure that the environment is safe and free for the Rohingyas to return. Unless that happens, no refugee will willingly go back to face the same brutality, massacre, genocide that they escaped from in August and September. WION: Very recently, you have also mentioned sanctions. Will you tell us more about what you meant? Gowher Rizvi: It is very obvious. We know that there was a sanction against Myanmar to bring its hardline military rulers to behave and those sanctions were lifted as a response to the state counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in the hope that there would be democracy, there would be opening of the Myanmar society and Myanmar would behave as a responsible member of the international community. Sadly, Myanmar took all the concessions but has not moved. The military still controls, the elected leaders wield very little power. In these circumstances our expectation that the removal of sanctions will enable democracy to flourish has not happened and as a matter of fact it has encouraged the military to launch this campaign of genocide, ethnic cleansing, the worst of its kind that we can remember. It is now time for countries to reconsider posing economic sanctions, military sanctions, travel restrictions, stopping foreign investment, denying access of market to Myanmar products. When these things happen, the military in Myanmar will come to senses. Until then I fear these will be all empty talks. Myanmar knows that after a while the global attention will shift somewhere else. Please remember, this is a very well designed, carefully planned genocide to push an entire ethnic group out of the country and we need to be very careful and remember that. I also believe we need to document all the egregious human rights violations that are taking place, the genocide that has taken place. At some point, I hope these human rights organisations, Human Rights Watch and so forth, will take these to the International Criminal Court of Justice. WION: Clearly that would be the real test of humanity for the international community. While the Rohingya community have moved here to Bangladesh, in the southern Cox's Bazar, the monsoon is also approaching. A landslide could take place, how challenging will it be to avoid a catastrophe? Gowher Rizvi: As you can see, Bangladesh is a very small country, extremely congested, by far the most densely populated country in the world. Despite that we have taken in a million people and opened up whatever we have, whatever little land that was available. We have housed them, we are feeding them, we are providing healthcare and we are providing security. Bangladesh is doing and will continue to do everything within its power. There is indeed the danger of mudslide because the terrain is such that there is going to be a mudslide. That is why we are also trying to make an alternative arrangement in a neighbouring island so that those who are most vulnerable can be safely evacuated there and in conditions which are habitable, which are up to the standards, meets the necessities of the refugees. We are doing everything we can. I think the international community, rather than focusing on Bangladesh and what more can Bangladesh do, should be looking into Myanmar. Bangladesh did not create this problem. The problem was created by Myanmar. The solution lies in Myanmar. Therefore, we should be looking there. As far as our prime minister is concerned, she has really done a very humane thing, a courageous thing to take them in. She has promised that she wants them to voluntarily go back. We are not pushing them. We have upheld the highest level of international and humanitarian law. And we will continue to do. I do believe the focus needs to be on Myanmar where the problem is. I think we have to also be aware of the larger issues. What we are seeing today is a dictatorial, tyrannical regime ousting an entire ethnic community from the soils of Myanmar and if the global community accepts this, then I fear there will be upheaval in many corners. There are minorities in every country. Minorities in every country will come under threat. We need to be very mindful of that and we should not allow any country to get away with it. There is another thing that we need to be thinking about. This camp of a million people is a potential for recruitment of extremists. We are protecting it, we are making sure no such thing happens. But over years, as we have seen in other camps, this becomes a breeding ground for terrorists. If that happens, our entire region, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Thailand, none of us will be safe. The stakes are really high and we must move as fast as possible to make sure the root cause is eliminated. Watch the full interview below:

Rohingya crisis: Impose sanctions, cut off investment, then Myanmar Army will come to its senses, says adviser to Bangladesh PM 

Seven soldiers in Myanmar were sentenced for their part in the extrajudicial killings of 10 Rohingya Muslim men, according to a Facebook post by the army chief late on Tuesday. 

"Four officers have been purged (from the army) and given a 10-year prison sentence with hard labour. A further three soldiers were purged and given a 10-year prison sentence with hard labour in a criminal prison," the post read.

Myanmar’s military has been accused of violating human rights with impunity for decades, including in its conflicts with rebel groups.

Most recently it has been accused of abuses during what it calls “clearance operations” against ethnic Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine state. More than 650,000 Rohingya have left Myanmar for Bangladesh, fleeing what the United Nations calls ethnic cleansing.

Myanmar’s military last week made a rare public admission of killing 10 Rohingya Muslims, whose bodies were found in a mass grave in a village in northern Rakhine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Myanmar’s military has been accused of violating human rights with impunity for decades, including in its conflicts with rebel groups.

Seven soldiers in Myanmar were sentenced for their part in the extrajudicial killings of 10 Rohingya Muslim men, according to a Facebook post by the army chief late on Tuesday.  "Four officers have been purged (from the army) and given a 10-year prison sentence with hard labour. A further three soldiers were purged and given a 10-year prison sentence with hard labour in a criminal prison," the post read. Myanmar’s military has been accused of violating human rights with impunity for decades, including in its conflicts with rebel groups. Most recently it has been accused of abuses during what it calls “clearance operations” against ethnic Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine state. More than 650,000 Rohingya have left Myanmar for Bangladesh, fleeing what the United Nations calls ethnic cleansing. Myanmar’s military last week made a rare public admission of killing 10 Rohingya Muslims, whose bodies were found in a mass grave in a village in northern Rakhine. (With inputs from Agencies)

7 Myanmar soldiers sentenced to 10 years over Rohingya killings: Army

Pakistan's top news channel, Geo News, has been forced to go off air in most parts of the country in what is being seen as a move by the military, reports said on Saturday.&nbsp

Reports quoted Pakistan home minister Ahsan Iqbal as saying it was not taken off air by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) or the ministry of information. “We are off the air in 80% of the country,” Mir Ibrahim Rahman, the chief executive of Geo network, told media without blaming anyone.

In the first week of March, Geo News was shut down in cantonment areas across the country and residential neighborhoods that are administered by the military. Now, all Geo channels — including news, entertainment and sports channels — started being blocked across the country by cable operators. The network’s channel assignment on the cable distribution network has also been lowered.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority has insisted that it is not behind the move, and put out a notice for cable operators not to disrupt Geo’s transmissions.

As per reports, the reason for this move could be following the channels alleged critical coverage of Pakistan’s placement on a terrorism financing watch list this year. More recently, according to media reports, news reports and articles critical of the army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and his domestic and foreign policy preferences, known here as the “Bajwa Doctrine”, have also outraged generals.

The Committee to Protect Journalists this week expressed concerns over the censorship of Geo network.

According to reports, both Geo TV and its mother organisation, Jang media group, were close to the country’s powerful security establishment, but the channel has become increasingly critical of the military in the past few years.

Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal said the incumbent government did not order the suspension of the channel, but he failed to explain why the channel faces a blackout across the country

Pakistan's top news channel, Geo News, has been forced to go off air in most parts of the country in what is being seen as a move by the military, reports said on Saturday. Reports quoted Pakistan home minister Ahsan Iqbal as saying it was not taken off air by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) or the ministry of information. “We are off the air in 80% of the country,” Mir Ibrahim Rahman, the chief executive of Geo network, told media without blaming anyone. In the first week of March, Geo News was shut down in cantonment areas across the country and residential neighborhoods that are administered by the military. Now, all Geo channels — including news, entertainment and sports channels — started being blocked across the country by cable operators. The network’s channel assignment on the cable distribution network has also been lowered. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority has insisted that it is not behind the move, and put out a notice for cable operators not to disrupt Geo’s transmissions. As per reports, the reason for this move could be following the channels alleged critical coverage of Pakistan’s placement on a terrorism financing watch list this year. More recently, according to media reports, news reports and articles critical of the army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and his domestic and foreign policy preferences, known here as the “Bajwa Doctrine”, have also outraged generals. The Committee to Protect Journalists this week expressed concerns over the censorship of Geo network. According to reports, both Geo TV and its mother organisation, Jang media group, were close to the country’s powerful security establishment, but the channel has become increasingly critical of the military in the past few years.

Pakistan's top news channel goes off air across the country

In what can be dubbed as the first move, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has openly come to the fore and has backed the Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, calling him "professional" and "straightforward".

"The civilian and military authorities must work together to counter the challenges facing Pakistan," the Dawn reported, citing Shahbaz as saying to journalists at the Kidney and Liver Transplant Institute.

"We must respect and honour the efforts the army chief is making (to safeguard national interests)," he added.

The PML-N chief said that, in a meeting he had had with the chief of the army staff, he found him professional and straightforward.

He also dwelled upon the sacrifices made by the armed forces to ensure the country's defence and to eliminate terrorism and fanaticism, appealing people to appreciate their efforts, according to the report.

The remarks seemingly are not in sync with his party's as even as many in his party blame the military establishment for the current political crisis facing the Sharifs.

'The civilian and military authorities must work together to counter the challenges facing Pakistan,' the Dawn reported citing Shahbaz

In what can be dubbed as the first move, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has openly come to the fore and has backed the Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, calling him "professional" and "straightforward". "The civilian and military authorities must work together to counter the challenges facing Pakistan," the Dawn reported, citing Shahbaz as saying to journalists at the Kidney and Liver Transplant Institute. "We must respect and honour the efforts the army chief is making (to safeguard national interests)," he added. The PML-N chief said that, in a meeting he had had with the chief of the army staff, he found him professional and straightforward. He also dwelled upon the sacrifices made by the armed forces to ensure the country's defence and to eliminate terrorism and fanaticism, appealing people to appreciate their efforts, according to the report. The remarks seemingly are not in sync with his party's as even as many in his party blame the military establishment for the current political crisis facing the Sharifs.

Shahbaz Sharif heaps praises on Pakistan Army chief

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday vowed to deploy the military to the border with Mexico, something he described as a "big step."

Cultivating his tough-on-migration image during a White House meeting with Baltic leaders, Trump said "we are going to be guarding our border with our military" as he lashed out at his predecessor.

"President Obama made changes that basically created no border," he claimed, without elaborating.

Trump has raged at Mexico for allowing around 1,500 demonstrators from Central America to walk toward the US border.

Like each of the last five years, they set off from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas for the US border, where many hope to apply for asylum.

Spurred on by right-wing media, Trump has leapt on the "caravan" as evidence of the need for a border wall.

"If it reaches our border our laws are so weak and so pathetic... it's like we have no border."

"We need to have a wall that's about 700-800 miles" of the border, he said.

Cultivating his tough-on-migration image during a White House meeting with Baltic leaders, Trump said 'we are going to be guarding our border with our military' as he lashed out at his predecessor

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday vowed to deploy the military to the border with Mexico, something he described as a "big step." Cultivating his tough-on-migration image during a White House meeting with Baltic leaders, Trump said "we are going to be guarding our border with our military" as he lashed out at his predecessor. "President Obama made changes that basically created no border," he claimed, without elaborating. Trump has raged at Mexico for allowing around 1,500 demonstrators from Central America to walk toward the US border. Like each of the last five years, they set off from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas for the US border, where many hope to apply for asylum. Spurred on by right-wing media, Trump has leapt on the "caravan" as evidence of the need for a border wall. "If it reaches our border our laws are so weak and so pathetic... it's like we have no border." "We need to have a wall that's about 700-800 miles" of the border, he said.

Trump vows to deploy military to Mexican border

Pakistan is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous countries in the world for activists and reporters.

The country's powerful and secretive security establishment, which includes the much feared Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the military, has long used abductions to silence anyone who dares to question or expose their actions, claims Kiran Nazish, an independent journalist covering South Asia and the Middle East, adding that she is of the view that the army is now waging what she calls "a quiet war on journalists".

According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, nearly 10,000 people have gone missing in the country since 2001, with nearly 3,000 still unaccounted for. In 2016 alone, there were 728 disappearances.

The HRCP and human rights activists say these numbers are significantly under-reported.

This matters, of course, for ordinary Pakistanis, who can't speak freely about their government. It also affects Pakistani lawmakers, whose ability to craft legislation is hampered by the lack of information, Nazish says in an article that she has written for the website www.vox.com.

According to Nazish, these enforced disappearances have real consequences for the rest of the world as well and recalls US President Donald Trump's first tweet of 2018, when he directly exposed Pakistan's failure to assist Washington in its global war on terror.

"The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit," he tweeted.

"They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help," he added.

According to Nazish, Trump's tweet speaks of a larger issue i.e. that Pakistan is battling its own war on terror.

"Many parts of the country, including Waziristan, on its porous border with Afghanistan, have turned into safe havens for militants and terror groups. The Pakistani military has been accused of working closely with and even aiding terrorists there. To many, Pakistan is a black hole of information due to the lack of reporting and independent voices on the ground. Not knowing what actually is taking place not only complicates global efforts to counter terrorism but also puts the region and the world at large at risk," she says.

She further asks how will Washington verify Pakistan's cracking down on terrorist groups like the Taliban and the Haqqani Network before agreeing to revoke the suspension of USD 900 million in security aid to Islamabad.

Nazish opines that Pakistan's intelligence agencies operate like an independent arm of the state

"It's important to note that Pakistan's government, although democratically elected, does not have the power to control or influence the far-reaching and powerful military establishment. Pakistan's intelligence agencies hold so much power that even the police can't touch them. And despite criticism and warnings from international groups and pledges by the government of Pakistan, disappearances seem to be getting worse," she adds.

Pakistan's Commission on Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances received nearly 300 cases of alleged enforced disappearances from August to October 2017, by far the largest number in a three month period in recent years.

And in early 2017, three Pakistani bloggers who were critical of the government disappeared for weeks, without a trace. When they were released, all three described torture and sexual abuse at the hands of Pakistani security personnel.

"Anyone who reports on Balochistan, or terrorism in Pakistan, knows that the military agencies will come after them," Khushal Khan, a research officer at the HRCP, told Nazish.

Waziristan, the restive region on the Western border with Afghanistan, is one of the most under-reported places in the country. There's almost no information that hasn't been vetted or censored by the military going in or out.

The Pakistani military has claimed several times that they have defeated terrorism in this area and forced out the terrorists - but the military refuses to let journalists or NGOs visit the area to verify their claims.

The fact is that anyone who attempts to report on what's happening in Pakistan now runs the risk of disappearing.

"When I was investigating abductions of civilians from Waziristan in 2015, my sources were threatened and told that they "should not speak to journalists," Nazish, a former senior fellow at New America, says.

According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, nearly 10,000 people have gone missing in the country since 2001, with nearly 3,000 still unaccounted for.

Pakistan is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous countries in the world for activists and reporters. The country's powerful and secretive security establishment, which includes the much feared Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the military, has long used abductions to silence anyone who dares to question or expose their actions, claims Kiran Nazish, an independent journalist covering South Asia and the Middle East, adding that she is of the view that the army is now waging what she calls "a quiet war on journalists". According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, nearly 10,000 people have gone missing in the country since 2001, with nearly 3,000 still unaccounted for. In 2016 alone, there were 728 disappearances. The HRCP and human rights activists say these numbers are significantly under-reported. This matters, of course, for ordinary Pakistanis, who can't speak freely about their government. It also affects Pakistani lawmakers, whose ability to craft legislation is hampered by the lack of information, Nazish says in an article that she has written for the website www.vox.com. According to Nazish, these enforced disappearances have real consequences for the rest of the world as well and recalls US President Donald Trump's first tweet of 2018, when he directly exposed Pakistan's failure to assist Washington in its global war on terror. "The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit," he tweeted. "They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help," he added. According to Nazish, Trump's tweet speaks of a larger issue i.e. that Pakistan is battling its own war on terror. "Many parts of the country, including Waziristan, on its porous border with Afghanistan, have turned into safe havens for militants and terror groups. The Pakistani military has been accused of working closely with and even aiding terrorists there. To many, Pakistan is a black hole of information due to the lack of reporting and independent voices on the ground. Not knowing what actually is taking place not only complicates global efforts to counter terrorism but also puts the region and the world at large at risk," she says. She further asks how will Washington verify Pakistan's cracking down on terrorist groups like the Taliban and the Haqqani Network before agreeing to revoke the suspension of USD 900 million in security aid to Islamabad. Nazish opines that Pakistan's intelligence agencies operate like an independent arm of the state "It's important to note that Pakistan's government, although democratically elected, does not have the power to control or influence the far-reaching and powerful military establishment. Pakistan's intelligence agencies hold so much power that even the police can't touch them. And despite criticism and warnings from international groups and pledges by the government of Pakistan, disappearances seem to be getting worse," she adds. Pakistan's Commission on Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances received nearly 300 cases of alleged enforced disappearances from August to October 2017, by far the largest number in a three month period in recent years. And in early 2017, three Pakistani bloggers who were critical of the government disappeared for weeks, without a trace. When they were released, all three described torture and sexual abuse at the hands of Pakistani security personnel. "Anyone who reports on Balochistan, or terrorism in Pakistan, knows that the military agencies will come after them," Khushal Khan, a research officer at the HRCP, told Nazish. Waziristan, the restive region on the Western border with Afghanistan, is one of the most under-reported places in the country. There's almost no information that hasn't been vetted or censored by the military going in or out. The Pakistani military has claimed several times that they have defeated terrorism in this area and forced out the terrorists - but the military refuses to let journalists or NGOs visit the area to verify their claims. The fact is that anyone who attempts to report on what's happening in Pakistan now runs the risk of disappearing. "When I was investigating abductions of civilians from Waziristan in 2015, my sources were threatened and told that they "should not speak to journalists," Nazish, a former senior fellow at New America, says.

Pakistan's military, ISI waging 'quiet war' against journalists, activists: Expert 

Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif said today that the state institutions should operate within their limits, in an apparent reference to the judiciary and the powerful military establishment.

"Had we respected the sanctity of vote for 70 years, Pakistan would have been in the top 10 countries of the world," Sharif was quoted as saying by the Geo TV.

The powerful army, which enjoys considerable influence over policy decisions in Pakistan, has ruled the country for much of its life since it gained independence 70 years ago.

The former prime minister also called for an end to all laws made under martial law regimes.

Sharif was speaking at the Punjab House where he held a meeting with party leaders and allies, including Pakhtuhkhwa Milli Awami Party chief Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

He said he may not have been an ideological person before but now he is 100 per cent ideological.

Earlier, Sharif said he is looking at things like the recent interview of Pakistan's chief justice Mian Saqib Nisar and a newspaper article detailing the army chief's 'doctrine'.

Talking to reporters inside the accountability court hearing a corruption case against him and his family, Sharif said former army chief Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf lies about his return to Pakistan.

"He would show his fists and say 'Nawaz and Benazir would never come back to Pakistan'," he said about the former army chief who recently postponed his return to the country to face trial on security grounds.

"I'm here with my daughter facing the courts," he said, adding that people should understand the difference between people like Musharraf and politicians.

Sharif claimed that everyone knows he is not the one to take ?signals', adding that he has paid a price for democracy and is paying it now too.

"The public's thumbs and not the umpire's finger will deliver votes," the three-time prime minister said, referring to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan's umpire reference during the anti-government protest in 2014.

Sharif said the reason for the attacks against him is his standing with the Constitution.

He also regretted becoming part of the 2012 Memogate case against the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) government and the then Pakistan envoy to the US Husain Haqqani.&nbsp

The powerful army, which enjoys considerable influence over policy decisions in Pakistan, has ruled the country for much of its life since it gained independence 70 years ago

Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif said today that the state institutions should operate within their limits, in an apparent reference to the judiciary and the powerful military establishment. "Had we respected the sanctity of vote for 70 years, Pakistan would have been in the top 10 countries of the world," Sharif was quoted as saying by the Geo TV. The powerful army, which enjoys considerable influence over policy decisions in Pakistan, has ruled the country for much of its life since it gained independence 70 years ago. The former prime minister also called for an end to all laws made under martial law regimes. Sharif was speaking at the Punjab House where he held a meeting with party leaders and allies, including Pakhtuhkhwa Milli Awami Party chief Mahmood Khan Achakzai. He said he may not have been an ideological person before but now he is 100 per cent ideological. Earlier, Sharif said he is looking at things like the recent interview of Pakistan's chief justice Mian Saqib Nisar and a newspaper article detailing the army chief's 'doctrine'. Talking to reporters inside the accountability court hearing a corruption case against him and his family, Sharif said former army chief Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf lies about his return to Pakistan. "He would show his fists and say 'Nawaz and Benazir would never come back to Pakistan'," he said about the former army chief who recently postponed his return to the country to face trial on security grounds. "I'm here with my daughter facing the courts," he said, adding that people should understand the difference between people like Musharraf and politicians. Sharif claimed that everyone knows he is not the one to take ?signals', adding that he has paid a price for democracy and is paying it now too. "The public's thumbs and not the umpire's finger will deliver votes," the three-time prime minister said, referring to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan's umpire reference during the anti-government protest in 2014. Sharif said the reason for the attacks against him is his standing with the Constitution. He also regretted becoming part of the 2012 Memogate case against the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) government and the then Pakistan envoy to the US Husain Haqqani.

State institutions should operate within their limits: Sharif

Turkey&rsquo;s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria&rsquo;s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area.&nbsp;

Turkish forces and the Syrian fighters swept into the main Afrin town last Sunday after an eight-week campaign to drive out the Kurdish YPG militia, which Ankara regards as a terrorist group.

A military source said the last remaining villages had been seized and control established overnight.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Control has been completely achieved in the Afrin region and searches operations are continuing so that local people can return safely to their houses,&rdquo; the source said.

State-run Anadolu news agency carried a similar report.&nbsp;

In Afrin, people queued to receive hot food which was being distributed by the Turkish Red Crescent while Turkish soldiers kept security and armoured vehicles moved along the streets.

&ldquo;We are trying to bring back life to normal in the short and medium term here.&rdquo; the aid group&rsquo;s president Kerem Kinik told Reuters. &ldquo;Our mobile kitchens are here, and our crews are in the villages.&rdquo;&nbsp;

&ldquo;We want everything to be alright. We want our women and children to come back. They could not come back to their homeland,&rdquo; said Afrin resident Abdurrahman Nahsen Suleymanoglu.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan rejected criticism of the Afrin campaign in a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday, according to a Turkish presidential source.

Among Turkey&rsquo;s Western allies, France has been one of the biggest critics of the Turkish military operation, with its foreign minister saying concerns for its border security did not justify the incursion.

A military source said the last remaining villages had been seized and control established overnight.

Turkey’s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria’s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area. Turkish forces and the Syrian fighters swept into the main Afrin town last Sunday after an eight-week campaign to drive out the Kurdish YPG militia, which Ankara regards as a terrorist group. A military source said the last remaining villages had been seized and control established overnight. “Control has been completely achieved in the Afrin region and searches operations are continuing so that local people can return safely to their houses,” the source said. State-run Anadolu news agency carried a similar report. In Afrin, people queued to receive hot food which was being distributed by the Turkish Red Crescent while Turkish soldiers kept security and armoured vehicles moved along the streets. “We are trying to bring back life to normal in the short and medium term here.” the aid group’s president Kerem Kinik told Reuters. “Our mobile kitchens are here, and our crews are in the villages.” “We want everything to be alright. We want our women and children to come back. They could not come back to their homeland,” said Afrin resident Abdurrahman Nahsen Suleymanoglu. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan rejected criticism of the Afrin campaign in a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday, according to a Turkish presidential source. Among Turkey’s Western allies, France has been one of the biggest critics of the Turkish military operation, with its foreign minister saying concerns for its border security did not justify the incursion.

Turkey takes full control of Syria's Afrin: Military source

The founder leader of Pakistan&#39;s political party Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Altaf Hussain, has claimed that he has never been against the country and only wants to eliminate the repressive and exploitative feudal system from there.

He said that in reality, the progressive people of Pakistan are eager to have friendly ties with the neighbouring countries of India, Afghanistan, and Iran.

Hussain asserted that he has always wished and struggled for a liberal and democratic Pakistan, where the judiciary works independently - free from the country&#39;s military control and military force, which should be public-serving, and not authoritarian.

The MQM wants to transform Pakistan into a state where all institutions, military, judiciary and Parliament should work in strict accordance with the Constitution.

&quot;Pakistan should not be ruled over by the military or judiciary but the people. Military generals violated the Constitution, broke Pakistan but they have never been tried for treason. The government of Pakistan should allow overseas Pakistanis to have their say through ballots in elections. The military should now stop humiliating tribal areas&#39; people especially women on the pretext of search. Sindh has to be divided under 26 parallel. Mohajirs population has been cut to a peanut size but the true census would reveal the actual strength of Mohajirs,&quot; Hussain said addressing the 34th Foundation Day of MQM in London, which was largely attended by people, intellects, writers, and academicians, among others.

Hussain said that his ideology can never be suppressed with state force.

All the oppressed masses of Pakistan should get united under one banner of the MQM, recognise the common enemy, and retrieve their rights, he appealed.

Hussain further said that his address to the participants of the 34th Foundation Day is also being watched by the military establishment and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) at the General Headquarters (GHQ) and Aabpara respectively, which is a proof that despite restrictions on local media to cover him, the military and ISI have failed.

It is with the blessings of Allah that he alone can change the course, he said.

Hussain asserted that a war among the oppressed and the tyrant is not new and would continue, as is happening today, and the struggle for rights from Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) has now engulfed Balochistan, with their voices of concern being heard worldwide.

Now, the oppressed Sindhis should rise in light of the teaching of late G. M. Syed and commence practical struggle for their rights as Hussain is doing for the Mohajirs and others.

The people of Punjab, especially students, should not listen to propaganda. The case is simple that he only wants to see them free from the shackles of the military and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). They are the corrupt military generals who are responsible for the country&#39;s devastating situation, Hussain said.

The military generals are protecting and promoting the decayed feudal system as their existence lies in it. Pakistanis, Pashtuns, Sindhis, Punjabis, Balochs, Pakhtoons, Kashmiris, Hazarwals, Gilgiti and Baltistani should recognise their first and common enemy - the military and feudal system, he appealed.

Today, the people of FATA are saying that it is Pakistan&#39;s military behind every act of repression and evil. In the past, the military establishment conspired against different communities to confront each other.

According to Hussain, Pakistan&#39;s former interior minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, who is a member of the feudal system advised his mother party, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), not to confront the institutions. He, in fact, wanted to say that the PML-N should not challenge the tyranny of the military establishment and the faulty judiciary.

Conversely, the ISI-paid TV anchors are safeguarding their interests and the interests of the tyrant military and faulty judiciary.

MQM founder Altaf Hussain said that everyone should bear in mind that the military dictators, who toppled democratic governments and suspended the constitution, were guilty of treason, as suspending the Constitution is an act of treason.

However, not a single military general has so far been punished by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

Instead, the anti-terrorist court directed the government to approach the Interpol for bringing general (retired) Pervez Musharraf back as the later has been implicated in a treason case.

Musharraf should also review as to why he alone has been charged with treason while the other military generals had initiated the coup d&#39;etat, but the court did not include them, he said.

Hussain added that ironically the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Saquib Nisar, is very active on taking suo motu notices on the prices of milk and drugs, but he is silent over the genocide of Mohajirs, Balochs and Pashtuns.

Further, Hussain asserted that it has been two months since the cold-blooded assassination of Professor Dr Hassan Zafar Arif. Naqeebullah Mehsood has been in custody, but the law enforcement authorities and the Supreme Court have not moved an inch for dispensing justices to the aggrieved families.

The killer Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rao Anwar is under the shelter of the military establishment and ISI, Hussain said. If the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) is interested in dispensing justice, he should summon the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Director General (DG) of ISI and other military heads and give them a three day deadline for the production of Anwar, and rest assured the killer cop would be available.

He said that it was the military establishment and the ISI that created a rift among different ethnic communities.

The ethnic folks of Pakistan should recognise the perpetrators or else the ethnic violence would never end in Pakistan, he urged.

In ethnic violence, numerous Mohajirs were slain.

However, he said, that he still looks forward and seeks Allah&#39;s refuge, hoping that Allah would pardon the assassins of Mohajirs.

It is now high time for unity against the common enemy and retrieval of rights.

He said that the Supreme Court in Pakistan is acting as on payroll of the military establishment.

The Supreme Court judges are only after Nawaz Sharif, but are turning a blind eye to Imran Khan. Sharif is paying the price of what Khan had done to Mohajirs in the past.

Hussain said that the military establishment has imposed a ban on him in Pakistan and under that ban, the media has been restricted to publish his statements and pictures, and the electronic media is restricted to telecast his talks and speeches.

The military establishment has declared him as a traitor while the fact is that he neither conspired against Pakistan nor broke it into two pieces, he said.

He also said, &quot;He is against all kinds of terrorism and extremism because those who are extremists and terrorists are on the sides of the evil. They are the forces of evil on Earth.&quot;

Therefore, everybody should seek Allah&#39;s refuge from military and judiciary as these are the real goons.

He invited all ethnic folks of Pakistan to come forward and unite for the retrieval of the suppressed rights to transform Pakistan into a state, where the democracy should be the only option in letter and spirit.

The military and judiciary should be working for the service of the people of Pakistan, the real owners of the country, he urged.

&quot;Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) should now keep in mind that Sindh has to be divided under 26 parallel formulas. People of urban Sindh (Mohajirs) have been fed up with PPP&#39;s crooked measures and discrimination,&quot; he said.

He also asked the Chief of Army Staff to stop humiliating women of tribal areas on the pretext of search for safety.

He demanded the government of Pakistan to allow the overseas Pakistanis to have their say through the ballot in elections.

Hussain thanked the participants and also felicitated Mohajirs in Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpur Khas, Sukkur, Nawab Shah, Sangarh, Tando Allah Yar, Tando Muhammad Jam and other citifies and towns of Sindh for commemorating the 34th Foundation Day at home.

He said that the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) party wants to transform Pakistan into a state where all institutions, military, judiciary and Parliament should work in strict accordance with the Constitution

The founder leader of Pakistan's political party Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Altaf Hussain, has claimed that he has never been against the country and only wants to eliminate the repressive and exploitative feudal system from there. He said that in reality, the progressive people of Pakistan are eager to have friendly ties with the neighbouring countries of India, Afghanistan, and Iran. Hussain asserted that he has always wished and struggled for a liberal and democratic Pakistan, where the judiciary works independently - free from the country's military control and military force, which should be public-serving, and not authoritarian. The MQM wants to transform Pakistan into a state where all institutions, military, judiciary and Parliament should work in strict accordance with the Constitution. "Pakistan should not be ruled over by the military or judiciary but the people. Military generals violated the Constitution, broke Pakistan but they have never been tried for treason. The government of Pakistan should allow overseas Pakistanis to have their say through ballots in elections. The military should now stop humiliating tribal areas' people especially women on the pretext of search. Sindh has to be divided under 26 parallel. Mohajirs population has been cut to a peanut size but the true census would reveal the actual strength of Mohajirs," Hussain said addressing the 34th Foundation Day of MQM in London, which was largely attended by people, intellects, writers, and academicians, among others. Hussain said that his ideology can never be suppressed with state force. All the oppressed masses of Pakistan should get united under one banner of the MQM, recognise the common enemy, and retrieve their rights, he appealed. Hussain further said that his address to the participants of the 34th Foundation Day is also being watched by the military establishment and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) at the General Headquarters (GHQ) and Aabpara respectively, which is a proof that despite restrictions on local media to cover him, the military and ISI have failed. It is with the blessings of Allah that he alone can change the course, he said. Hussain asserted that a war among the oppressed and the tyrant is not new and would continue, as is happening today, and the struggle for rights from Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) has now engulfed Balochistan, with their voices of concern being heard worldwide. Now, the oppressed Sindhis should rise in light of the teaching of late G. M. Syed and commence practical struggle for their rights as Hussain is doing for the Mohajirs and others. The people of Punjab, especially students, should not listen to propaganda. The case is simple that he only wants to see them free from the shackles of the military and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). They are the corrupt military generals who are responsible for the country's devastating situation, Hussain said. The military generals are protecting and promoting the decayed feudal system as their existence lies in it. Pakistanis, Pashtuns, Sindhis, Punjabis, Balochs, Pakhtoons, Kashmiris, Hazarwals, Gilgiti and Baltistani should recognise their first and common enemy - the military and feudal system, he appealed. Today, the people of FATA are saying that it is Pakistan's military behind every act of repression and evil. In the past, the military establishment conspired against different communities to confront each other. According to Hussain, Pakistan's former interior minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, who is a member of the feudal system advised his mother party, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), not to confront the institutions. He, in fact, wanted to say that the PML-N should not challenge the tyranny of the military establishment and the faulty judiciary. Conversely, the ISI-paid TV anchors are safeguarding their interests and the interests of the tyrant military and faulty judiciary. MQM founder Altaf Hussain said that everyone should bear in mind that the military dictators, who toppled democratic governments and suspended the constitution, were guilty of treason, as suspending the Constitution is an act of treason. However, not a single military general has so far been punished by the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Instead, the anti-terrorist court directed the government to approach the Interpol for bringing general (retired) Pervez Musharraf back as the later has been implicated in a treason case. Musharraf should also review as to why he alone has been charged with treason while the other military generals had initiated the coup d'etat, but the court did not include them, he said. Hussain added that ironically the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Saquib Nisar, is very active on taking suo motu notices on the prices of milk and drugs, but he is silent over the genocide of Mohajirs, Balochs and Pashtuns. Further, Hussain asserted that it has been two months since the cold-blooded assassination of Professor Dr Hassan Zafar Arif. Naqeebullah Mehsood has been in custody, but the law enforcement authorities and the Supreme Court have not moved an inch for dispensing justices to the aggrieved families. The killer Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rao Anwar is under the shelter of the military establishment and ISI, Hussain said. If the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) is interested in dispensing justice, he should summon the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Director General (DG) of ISI and other military heads and give them a three day deadline for the production of Anwar, and rest assured the killer cop would be available. He said that it was the military establishment and the ISI that created a rift among different ethnic communities. The ethnic folks of Pakistan should recognise the perpetrators or else the ethnic violence would never end in Pakistan, he urged. In ethnic violence, numerous Mohajirs were slain. However, he said, that he still looks forward and seeks Allah's refuge, hoping that Allah would pardon the assassins of Mohajirs. It is now high time for unity against the common enemy and retrieval of rights. He said that the Supreme Court in Pakistan is acting as on payroll of the military establishment. The Supreme Court judges are only after Nawaz Sharif, but are turning a blind eye to Imran Khan. Sharif is paying the price of what Khan had done to Mohajirs in the past. Hussain said that the military establishment has imposed a ban on him in Pakistan and under that ban, the media has been restricted to publish his statements and pictures, and the electronic media is restricted to telecast his talks and speeches. The military establishment has declared him as a traitor while the fact is that he neither conspired against Pakistan nor broke it into two pieces, he said. He also said, "He is against all kinds of terrorism and extremism because those who are extremists and terrorists are on the sides of the evil. They are the forces of evil on Earth." Therefore, everybody should seek Allah's refuge from military and judiciary as these are the real goons. He invited all ethnic folks of Pakistan to come forward and unite for the retrieval of the suppressed rights to transform Pakistan into a state, where the democracy should be the only option in letter and spirit. The military and judiciary should be working for the service of the people of Pakistan, the real owners of the country, he urged. "Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) should now keep in mind that Sindh has to be divided under 26 parallel formulas. People of urban Sindh (Mohajirs) have been fed up with PPP's crooked measures and discrimination," he said. He also asked the Chief of Army Staff to stop humiliating women of tribal areas on the pretext of search for safety. He demanded the government of Pakistan to allow the overseas Pakistanis to have their say through the ballot in elections. Hussain thanked the participants and also felicitated Mohajirs in Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpur Khas, Sukkur, Nawab Shah, Sangarh, Tando Allah Yar, Tando Muhammad Jam and other citifies and towns of Sindh for commemorating the 34th Foundation Day at home.

Progressive people of Pakistan eager to have friendly ties with India: MQM founder

The Russian military will respond to a US&nbsp;strike on Syria, targeting any missiles and launchers involved in such an attack, the RIA news agency reported on Tuesday.

RIA cited Valery Gerasimov, head of the General Staff, as saying that Moscow would retaliate if the lives of Russian servicemen in Syria were threatened.

Valery Gerasimov, head of the General Staff, said that Moscow would retaliate if the lives of Russian servicemen in Syria were threatened

The Russian military will respond to a US strike on Syria, targeting any missiles and launchers involved in such an attack, the RIA news agency reported on Tuesday. RIA cited Valery Gerasimov, head of the General Staff, as saying that Moscow would retaliate if the lives of Russian servicemen in Syria were threatened.

Russian military says will respond if US strikes Syria

A Russian transport plane crashed on landing at an airbase in Syria Tuesday, the defence ministry said, killing all 39 people on board in one of the deadliest incidents since Moscow&#39;s intervention in the country&#39;s war.

The ministry said the 33 passengers and six crew members were all military personnel, in a statement carried by news agencies, revising up an earlier toll of 32.

&quot;The reason for the crash according to preliminary information could have been a technical fault,&quot; the ministry said, adding that the plane had not come under fire according to a report from the ground.&nbsp;

The transporter was around 500 metres (yards) from the runway at the Hmeimim airbase in western Syria, according to the defence ministry.

President Vladimir Putin expressed &quot;deep condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed in the crash and also to all of the military over the loss of their comrades&quot;.&nbsp;

Putin, who is on a trip in the Urals region, spoke to Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on the phone about the accident, according to the Kremlin.

A commission will investigate the causes of the crash, the defence ministry said.

The Investigative Committee, which covers major incidents, also announced a probe into possible safety breaches, saying the plane was carrying out a planned flight.

- Red Army Choir - 
The accident is the second greatest loss of life for Russia since Moscow&#39;s intervention in the war.

In December 2016, a military plane carrying the famed Red Army Choir to Syria crashed after taking off from Sochi, killing all 92 people on board.

Moscow began conducting air strikes in Syria in September 2015, and its intervention has swung the nearly seven-year conflict firmly in favour of the forces of President Bashar al-Assad.&nbsp;

Putin made a surprise visit to Hmeimim in December where he ordered the start of a pullout of Russian troops, saying their task in the war-torn country had been largely completed.

Three battalions of military police and officers of the Russian Centre for Reconciliation would remain in Syria, as well as two Russian bases, Shoigu said on a subsequent trip.

Antonov-26 planes are used by the military in Syria for internal flights transporting troops and supplies between provinces, Kommersant business daily reported.

The planes have also been used on press tours.

&#39;Black boxes found&#39; 
The transport plane crashed and burst into flames near the highway that connects Damascus to Latakia on Tuesday, the pro-Kremlin daily newspaper Izvestiya reported, adding that the black box flight recorders had been found.

Tuesday&#39;s crash brings Russia&#39;s official military losses in the Syrian war to 84.&nbsp;

The most recent officially acknowledged military loss in battle in Syria was last month when a Russian pilot was killed after his plane was downed over Idlib province.

Russia has also acknowledged that five of its citizens were killed in a US-led coalition bombing in the eastern Deir Ezzor province on February 7, in the first admission of non-military Russian personnel killed in combat.

Moscow also said &quot;several dozen&quot; were wounded in the coalition strike.

The United States said its strike killed at least 100 regime and allied fighters and various reports indicated a death toll of up to several hundred Russians from the strike.

Russian nationals are regularly reported to be serving as paid mercenaries in Syria and taking on dangerous missions that often lead to casualties.

However, officials deny this and serving as a mercenary is illegal under Russian law. &nbsp;

Moscow&#39;s Syrian air base Hmeimim has been targeted in several attacks.

The military said that two drones carrying explosives attacked the base in January without causing any casualties.

On New Year&#39;s Eve last year, a mortar attack on the base killed two Russian soldiers.

In the most recent accident at the base, a Sukhoi military jet crashed while trying to take off in October, killing two crew members.

The defence ministry said the 33 passengers and six crew members were all military personnel, in a statement carried by news agencies, revising up an earlier toll of 32

A Russian transport plane crashed on landing at an airbase in Syria Tuesday, the defence ministry said, killing all 39 people on board in one of the deadliest incidents since Moscow's intervention in the country's war. The ministry said the 33 passengers and six crew members were all military personnel, in a statement carried by news agencies, revising up an earlier toll of 32. "The reason for the crash according to preliminary information could have been a technical fault," the ministry said, adding that the plane had not come under fire according to a report from the ground. The transporter was around 500 metres (yards) from the runway at the Hmeimim airbase in western Syria, according to the defence ministry. President Vladimir Putin expressed "deep condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed in the crash and also to all of the military over the loss of their comrades". Putin, who is on a trip in the Urals region, spoke to Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on the phone about the accident, according to the Kremlin. A commission will investigate the causes of the crash, the defence ministry said. The Investigative Committee, which covers major incidents, also announced a probe into possible safety breaches, saying the plane was carrying out a planned flight. - Red Army Choir - The accident is the second greatest loss of life for Russia since Moscow's intervention in the war. In December 2016, a military plane carrying the famed Red Army Choir to Syria crashed after taking off from Sochi, killing all 92 people on board. Moscow began conducting air strikes in Syria in September 2015, and its intervention has swung the nearly seven-year conflict firmly in favour of the forces of President Bashar al-Assad. Putin made a surprise visit to Hmeimim in December where he ordered the start of a pullout of Russian troops, saying their task in the war-torn country had been largely completed. Three battalions of military police and officers of the Russian Centre for Reconciliation would remain in Syria, as well as two Russian bases, Shoigu said on a subsequent trip. Antonov-26 planes are used by the military in Syria for internal flights transporting troops and supplies between provinces, Kommersant business daily reported. The planes have also been used on press tours. 'Black boxes found' The transport plane crashed and burst into flames near the highway that connects Damascus to Latakia on Tuesday, the pro-Kremlin daily newspaper Izvestiya reported, adding that the black box flight recorders had been found. Tuesday's crash brings Russia's official military losses in the Syrian war to 84. The most recent officially acknowledged military loss in battle in Syria was last month when a Russian pilot was killed after his plane was downed over Idlib province. Russia has also acknowledged that five of its citizens were killed in a US-led coalition bombing in the eastern Deir Ezzor province on February 7, in the first admission of non-military Russian personnel killed in combat. Moscow also said "several dozen" were wounded in the coalition strike. The United States said its strike killed at least 100 regime and allied fighters and various reports indicated a death toll of up to several hundred Russians from the strike. Russian nationals are regularly reported to be serving as paid mercenaries in Syria and taking on dangerous missions that often lead to casualties. However, officials deny this and serving as a mercenary is illegal under Russian law. Moscow's Syrian air base Hmeimim has been targeted in several attacks. The military said that two drones carrying explosives attacked the base in January without causing any casualties. On New Year's Eve last year, a mortar attack on the base killed two Russian soldiers. In the most recent accident at the base, a Sukhoi military jet crashed while trying to take off in October, killing two crew members.

39 dead in Russian plane crash at Syria base: Kremlin

Turkey neutralised at least 2,434 terrorists belonging to the Kurdistan Workers&#39; Party (PYD/PKK) and Islamic State (IS) group in a military operation in Syria&#39;s Afrin region, the Turkish general staff said in a statement on Saturday.

The Turkish army took control of the outer edge of Syria&#39;s Afrin region, state media said, as Ankara said it was readying for a &quot;new battle&quot; by deploying police special forces.&nbsp;

A total of 2,222 militants have been &quot;neutralized&quot; since the commencement of Turkey&#39;s &quot;Operation Olive Branch&quot; in Syria&#39;s Afrin region, the military said in a statement Thursday.&nbsp;

The word &quot;neutralised&quot; is used to imply that the terrorists in question either surrendered or were killed or captured.

On January 20, Turkey began an air and ground offensive supporting Syrian rebels against the US-backed YPG in its western enclave of Afrin. The main aim of the Turkish forces is to establish security and stability along Turkey&#39;s borders as well as to protect Syrians from terrorist oppression and cruelty.

&quot;The operation is being carried out under the framework of Turkey&#39;s rights based on international law, United Nations Security Council resolutions, its self-defence rights under the UN charter, and respect for Syria&#39;s territorial integrity,&quot; the Turkish military added.

Also, 924 terror targets have been destroyed ever since the military operations began in January.

In January 2018, the Turkish military began an operation in the Kurdish-majority Afrin Canton and the Tel Rifaat Area of Shahba Canton in Northern Syria.&nbsp;

The PKK, which is based in Turkey, Iraq and parts of Syria, has been involved in an armed conflict with Turkey for the past few years. Its aim is to achieve the objective of creating an independent Kurdish state.

It has been listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the United States and the European Union.

The PKK is responsible for the deaths of more than 1,200 Turkish security personnel and civilians.

The Turkish army took control of the outer edge of Syria's Afrin region, state media said, as Ankara said it was readying for a 'new battle' by deploying police special forces

Turkey neutralised at least 2,434 terrorists belonging to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PYD/PKK) and Islamic State (IS) group in a military operation in Syria's Afrin region, the Turkish general staff said in a statement on Saturday. The Turkish army took control of the outer edge of Syria's Afrin region, state media said, as Ankara said it was readying for a "new battle" by deploying police special forces. A total of 2,222 militants have been "neutralized" since the commencement of Turkey's "Operation Olive Branch" in Syria's Afrin region, the military said in a statement Thursday. The word "neutralised" is used to imply that the terrorists in question either surrendered or were killed or captured. On January 20, Turkey began an air and ground offensive supporting Syrian rebels against the US-backed YPG in its western enclave of Afrin. The main aim of the Turkish forces is to establish security and stability along Turkey's borders as well as to protect Syrians from terrorist oppression and cruelty. "The operation is being carried out under the framework of Turkey's rights based on international law, United Nations Security Council resolutions, its self-defence rights under the UN charter, and respect for Syria's territorial integrity," the Turkish military added. Also, 924 terror targets have been destroyed ever since the military operations began in January. In January 2018, the Turkish military began an operation in the Kurdish-majority Afrin Canton and the Tel Rifaat Area of Shahba Canton in Northern Syria. The PKK, which is based in Turkey, Iraq and parts of Syria, has been involved in an armed conflict with Turkey for the past few years. Its aim is to achieve the objective of creating an independent Kurdish state. It has been listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the United States and the European Union. The PKK is responsible for the deaths of more than 1,200 Turkish security personnel and civilians.

Turkey neutralised at least 2,434 terrorists belonging to PKK, IS

A recent report taken out by a Washington D.C.-based think tank has predicted that Communist China is seeking to expand its military and political influence across Latin America.

The report prepared by the Center for a Secure Free Society (SFS) think-tank appears in the breitbart.com web site.

Titled, &quot;The Dragon and the Condor: Beyond China&#39;s Economic Influence in the Americas,&quot; the report has warned that Beijing is likely to increase its power through military and political means.

&quot;It is also clear that China&#39;s strategic objectives and interests are well beyond the economic realm, and that they raise considerable national security concerns for the U.S. as well as for other nations in the hemisphere,&quot; the SFS report claims.

The assessment of the SFS is that there has been a &quot;steady increase in Chinese intelligence activities in Latin America,&quot; noting that the countries in the region cannot combat Beijing&#39;s capabilities.

SFS notes that Beijing&#39;s intelligence activities in the Americas likely seek to &quot;collect information on U.S. military technology and doctrine; conduct cyber warfare; and carryout corporate espionage.&quot;

&quot;China&#39;s presence in Latin America will continue to grow not only in the economic sphere, but also in political, security, and cultural aspects. China&#39;s intelligence operations in Latin America will be carried out gradually and in stages, especially until Beijing can develop trusted human intelligence networks to support its activity,&quot; the report suggests.

In its most recent assessment of its operations, focused on Latin American countries below Mexico and most of the Caribbean, the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) concedes that China&#39;s activities in the Americas pose a threat to the United States.

SOUTHCOM specifically noted Beijing&#39;s decision to expand its ambitious multi-trillion-dollar &quot;One Belt, One Road&quot; (OBOR) initiative to Latin America as a menace to U.S. interests.

The U.S. military has cautioned that the strategic challenge posed by China in this region requires a new approach to get effective results.

The national security think-tank analysis also highlights China&#39;s OBOR or the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as a threat to the United States.

The BRI raises serious inquiries about China&#39;s long-term interests and objectives abroad.

The U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM), which covers American military activity in China, New Zealand, and all the countries in between, recently cautioned lawmakers the Chinese armed forces might soon challenge the United States&#39; military dominance in the Indo-Pacific region &quot;across almost all domains.&quot; (ANI)

'It is also clear that China's strategic objectives and interests are well beyond the economic realm, and that they raise considerable national security concerns for the U.S. as well as for other nations in the hemisphere,' say a recent report

A recent report taken out by a Washington D.C.-based think tank has predicted that Communist China is seeking to expand its military and political influence across Latin America. The report prepared by the Center for a Secure Free Society (SFS) think-tank appears in the breitbart.com web site. Titled, "The Dragon and the Condor: Beyond China's Economic Influence in the Americas," the report has warned that Beijing is likely to increase its power through military and political means. "It is also clear that China's strategic objectives and interests are well beyond the economic realm, and that they raise considerable national security concerns for the U.S. as well as for other nations in the hemisphere," the SFS report claims. The assessment of the SFS is that there has been a "steady increase in Chinese intelligence activities in Latin America," noting that the countries in the region cannot combat Beijing's capabilities. SFS notes that Beijing's intelligence activities in the Americas likely seek to "collect information on U.S. military technology and doctrine; conduct cyber warfare; and carryout corporate espionage." "China's presence in Latin America will continue to grow not only in the economic sphere, but also in political, security, and cultural aspects. China's intelligence operations in Latin America will be carried out gradually and in stages, especially until Beijing can develop trusted human intelligence networks to support its activity," the report suggests. In its most recent assessment of its operations, focused on Latin American countries below Mexico and most of the Caribbean, the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) concedes that China's activities in the Americas pose a threat to the United States. SOUTHCOM specifically noted Beijing's decision to expand its ambitious multi-trillion-dollar "One Belt, One Road" (OBOR) initiative to Latin America as a menace to U.S. interests. The U.S. military has cautioned that the strategic challenge posed by China in this region requires a new approach to get effective results. The national security think-tank analysis also highlights China's OBOR or the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as a threat to the United States. The BRI raises serious inquiries about China's long-term interests and objectives abroad. The U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM), which covers American military activity in China, New Zealand, and all the countries in between, recently cautioned lawmakers the Chinese armed forces might soon challenge the United States' military dominance in the Indo-Pacific region "across almost all domains." (ANI)

China expanding military, political influence in Latin America

Saudi Arabia has replaced some of its top military officers in a shake-up that elevates a younger generation, brings a woman into a senior government job and tightens Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman`s grip on power.

In a reshuffle announced late on Monday, the military chief of staff, air defence and land forces heads and senior defence and interior ministry officials were removed. Tamadur bint Youssef al-Ramah became deputy labour minister, a rare high-level job for a woman in the deeply conservative kingdom.

The crown prince, who at 32 is also defence minister and heir apparent, has promised reforms to wean Saudi Arabia off oil exports, create jobs and open up Saudis` cloistered lifestyles. Since rising to prominence three years ago, he has also removed a number of apparent rivals to the throne.

His cousin Mohammed bin Nayef was ousted as crown prince and interior minister in a palace coup last June, after which Prince Mohammed restructured the ministry to establish tighter control over intelligence and counter-terrorism.

Another cousin, Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, was sacked as head of the National Guard last November and detained for two months in an anti-corruption crackdown in which scores of the kingdom`s economic and political elite were held.

The latest personnel changes were decreed by King Salman and published in state media. No reason was given but the changes appear to have enabled Prince Mohammed to put his personal stamp of authority on key levers of the military.

The overhaul, analysts said, was not directly linked to Saudi Arabia`s three-year-old military campaign in Yemen against the Iran-aligned armed Houthi movement. But the war has largely stalled and international criticism is growing over a humanitarian crisis and air strikes that have killed civilians.

Prince Mohammed is likely to face questions from allies frustrated with the lack of progress during planned trips to the United States and Europe.

&quot;He can say... he`s dealt with people responsible for that right up to the top. But it`s not going to instil confidence that your military, as a result of that, will be technically better able to perform,&quot; said Michael Stephens, research fellow at British defence and security think-tank the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI).

&quot;It&rsquo;s a wide ranging sweep across the deck... Especially when it comes to security, that makes people nervous.&quot;

The new military chief of staff was named as First Lieutenant Fayyad bin Hamed al-Ruwayli. His predecessor, First Lieutenant Abdelrahman bin Saleh al-Banyan, was retired and made a royal advisor. 
The decrees included adopting a new strategy to restructure the defence ministry for improved organisation and governance, but provided few details.

Defence contracts with U.S. and European companies have long been a source of corruption and Prince Mohammed has it is &quot;unacceptable&quot; that high military spending has not translated into better performance.

Scholar Joseph Kechichian said some officers had been dismissed for incompetence while others had received fast promotions, but analysts said it was not clear the shake-up would immediately improve military performance.

Khalid Biyari, appointed aide to the defence minister, left his post as chief executive of Saudi Telecom, a possible sign that the crown prince is tapping the private sector to implement reforms.

 
YOUNG BLOOD

The overhaul was a nod to a younger generation, analysts said, in what has become a hallmark of the crown prince`s approach to ruling youthful Saudi Arabia, where patriarchal traditions have long made power the preserve of the old.

If he succeeds his father, Prince Mohammed would become the first grandson of the kingdom`s founder Ibn Saud to be king after decades of rule by six of his sons.

&quot;It`s sometimes useful in flexing your patronage muscle,&quot; said British-based analyst Neil Partrick. &quot;It might give a sense of freshness... but I would be surprised if it leads to any changes in substance in policy in Yemen or anywhere else.&quot;

The appointment of a woman at the labour ministry is part of efforts to modernise and promote a more moderate form of Islam. Prince Mohammed has loosened social restrictions, scaling back the role of religious police and permitting public concerts.

The government has announced plans to allow women to drive this year, and said women can enrol in the security forces and no longer need the consent of a male relative to open their own businesses, a step away from the kingdom`s guardianship system.A senior Saudi cleric said last month that women need not wear the abaya - the loose-fitting, full-length robe symbolic of religious faith - and another prominent sheikh said that celebrating Valentine`s Day did not contradict Islamic teachings, defying the religious police`s hardline position.

The decrees also included the appointment of three deputy governors from among the descendants of Princes Ahmed, Talal and Muqrin - brothers of King Salman, some of whom may have felt sidelined by changes since his accession to the throne in 2015.

One of them, new deputy governor of Asir province, Prince Turki bin Talal, is the brother of billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who was detained in the government`s anti-corruption campaign and released only last month.

Greg Gause, a Gulf expert at Texas A&amp;M University, said the injection of more junior officials could help the crown prince cultivate a bloc within the royal family that is supportive of him at younger levels.

&quot;But, and this is a big `but`, he is not appointing them to positions in the central government, at least not yet,&quot; said Gause. &quot;He is keeping power in the cabinet centralised in his hands.&quot;

Tamadur bint Youssef al-Ramah became deputy labour minister

Saudi Arabia has replaced some of its top military officers in a shake-up that elevates a younger generation, brings a woman into a senior government job and tightens Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman`s grip on power. In a reshuffle announced late on Monday, the military chief of staff, air defence and land forces heads and senior defence and interior ministry officials were removed. Tamadur bint Youssef al-Ramah became deputy labour minister, a rare high-level job for a woman in the deeply conservative kingdom. The crown prince, who at 32 is also defence minister and heir apparent, has promised reforms to wean Saudi Arabia off oil exports, create jobs and open up Saudis` cloistered lifestyles. Since rising to prominence three years ago, he has also removed a number of apparent rivals to the throne. His cousin Mohammed bin Nayef was ousted as crown prince and interior minister in a palace coup last June, after which Prince Mohammed restructured the ministry to establish tighter control over intelligence and counter-terrorism. Another cousin, Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, was sacked as head of the National Guard last November and detained for two months in an anti-corruption crackdown in which scores of the kingdom`s economic and political elite were held. The latest personnel changes were decreed by King Salman and published in state media. No reason was given but the changes appear to have enabled Prince Mohammed to put his personal stamp of authority on key levers of the military. The overhaul, analysts said, was not directly linked to Saudi Arabia`s three-year-old military campaign in Yemen against the Iran-aligned armed Houthi movement. But the war has largely stalled and international criticism is growing over a humanitarian crisis and air strikes that have killed civilians. Prince Mohammed is likely to face questions from allies frustrated with the lack of progress during planned trips to the United States and Europe. "He can say... he`s dealt with people responsible for that right up to the top. But it`s not going to instil confidence that your military, as a result of that, will be technically better able to perform," said Michael Stephens, research fellow at British defence and security think-tank the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). "It’s a wide ranging sweep across the deck... Especially when it comes to security, that makes people nervous." The new military chief of staff was named as First Lieutenant Fayyad bin Hamed al-Ruwayli. His predecessor, First Lieutenant Abdelrahman bin Saleh al-Banyan, was retired and made a royal advisor. The decrees included adopting a new strategy to restructure the defence ministry for improved organisation and governance, but provided few details. Defence contracts with U.S. and European companies have long been a source of corruption and Prince Mohammed has it is "unacceptable" that high military spending has not translated into better performance. Scholar Joseph Kechichian said some officers had been dismissed for incompetence while others had received fast promotions, but analysts said it was not clear the shake-up would immediately improve military performance. Khalid Biyari, appointed aide to the defence minister, left his post as chief executive of Saudi Telecom, a possible sign that the crown prince is tapping the private sector to implement reforms. YOUNG BLOOD The overhaul was a nod to a younger generation, analysts said, in what has become a hallmark of the crown prince`s approach to ruling youthful Saudi Arabia, where patriarchal traditions have long made power the preserve of the old. If he succeeds his father, Prince Mohammed would become the first grandson of the kingdom`s founder Ibn Saud to be king after decades of rule by six of his sons. "It`s sometimes useful in flexing your patronage muscle," said British-based analyst Neil Partrick. "It might give a sense of freshness... but I would be surprised if it leads to any changes in substance in policy in Yemen or anywhere else." The appointment of a woman at the labour ministry is part of efforts to modernise and promote a more moderate form of Islam. Prince Mohammed has loosened social restrictions, scaling back the role of religious police and permitting public concerts. The government has announced plans to allow women to drive this year, and said women can enrol in the security forces and no longer need the consent of a male relative to open their own businesses, a step away from the kingdom`s guardianship system.A senior Saudi cleric said last month that women need not wear the abaya - the loose-fitting, full-length robe symbolic of religious faith - and another prominent sheikh said that celebrating Valentine`s Day did not contradict Islamic teachings, defying the religious police`s hardline position. The decrees also included the appointment of three deputy governors from among the descendants of Princes Ahmed, Talal and Muqrin - brothers of King Salman, some of whom may have felt sidelined by changes since his accession to the throne in 2015. One of them, new deputy governor of Asir province, Prince Turki bin Talal, is the brother of billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who was detained in the government`s anti-corruption campaign and released only last month. Greg Gause, a Gulf expert at Texas A&M University, said the injection of more junior officials could help the crown prince cultivate a bloc within the royal family that is supportive of him at younger levels. "But, and this is a big `but`, he is not appointing them to positions in the central government, at least not yet," said Gause. "He is keeping power in the cabinet centralised in his hands."

Saudi Arabia reshuffles military, promotes woman at labour ministry

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