A Twitter spat between Pakistan’s human rights minister and her daughter had its echoes during the Moscow&nbsp;consultations on Afghanistan, when Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan and other officials were found discussing about the tiff, which was heard by scores of others as the diplomats forgot to switch off their mikes.

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ROLF moment. Pakistani diplomats forget to turn off mike at Moscow format talks involving Taliban. Found discussing Pak Human rights minister Shireen Mazari &amp; her daughter's twitter spat. <a href="https://t.co/9dpIOx1zS6">pic.twitter.com/9dpIOx1zS6</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1450887208102076423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Shuru se inka style yehi hai, aggressive (This has been her style all along, aggressive),” Pakistani diplomat Mohammad Sadiq was purportedly heard saying in Urdu.&nbsp;

The row between Pakistan’s human rights minister Shireen Mazar and her daughter Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, a lawyer by profession, has taken the Islamic nation by storm. The argument centred around whether the government’s alleged “use of magic” to run the state's affairs should be part of public discourse. 
 
Watch

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Imaan was reiterating an allegation that&nbsp;is being pushed forward by the government's critics that Prime Minister Imran Khan relies on witchcraft and divination to make key decisions regarding the affairs of the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-russia-calls-for-humanitarian-aid-as-it-hosts-taliban-422322">Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban</a>

The jibe was perceived by many, including her mother, to be targeting the prime minister's spouse, who was a spiritual person before her marriage to Imran Khan.

“The country has been made a mockery of with (the use of) witchcraft — how can it be that we do not talk about those who practice it,” Imaan had said in her tweet.

In response, Shireen said, “I am ashamed you would resort to such low, personalised, unsubstantiated attacks — especially since as a lawyer you should know (that) without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation.”

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I am ashamed you would resort to such low personalised unsubstantiated attacks esp since as a lawyer u shd know without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation. When all substantive issue-based criticism fails this level of a base personal attack is plain shameful. <a href="https://t.co/drbLN5bq9w">https://t.co/drbLN5bq9w</a>
— Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShireenMazari1/status/1450724121801854977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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What followed was a flurry of tweets in reply to the exchange.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Twitter spat between Pakistan’s human rights minister and her daughter had its echoes during the Moscow consultations on Afghanistan, when Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan and other officials were found discussing about the tiff, which was heard by scores of others as the diplomats forgot to switch off their mikes.

A Twitter spat between Pakistan’s human rights minister and her daughter had its echoes during the Moscow consultations on Afghanistan, when Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan and other officials were found discussing about the tiff, which was heard by scores of others as the diplomats forgot to switch off their mikes. ROLF moment. Pakistani diplomats forget to turn off mike at Moscow format talks involving Taliban. Found discussing Pak Human rights minister Shireen Mazari & her daughter's twitter spat. pic.twitter.com/9dpIOx1zS6 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) October 20, 2021 × “Shuru se inka style yehi hai, aggressive (This has been her style all along, aggressive),” Pakistani diplomat Mohammad Sadiq was purportedly heard saying in Urdu. The row between Pakistan’s human rights minister Shireen Mazar and her daughter Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, a lawyer by profession, has taken the Islamic nation by storm. The argument centred around whether the government’s alleged “use of magic” to run the state's affairs should be part of public discourse. Watch Imaan was reiterating an allegation that is being pushed forward by the government's critics that Prime Minister Imran Khan relies on witchcraft and divination to make key decisions regarding the affairs of the state. Also read | Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban The jibe was perceived by many, including her mother, to be targeting the prime minister's spouse, who was a spiritual person before her marriage to Imran Khan. “The country has been made a mockery of with (the use of) witchcraft — how can it be that we do not talk about those who practice it,” Imaan had said in her tweet. In response, Shireen said, “I am ashamed you would resort to such low, personalised, unsubstantiated attacks — especially since as a lawyer you should know (that) without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation.” I am ashamed you would resort to such low personalised unsubstantiated attacks esp since as a lawyer u shd know without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation. When all substantive issue-based criticism fails this level of a base personal attack is plain shameful. https://t.co/drbLN5bq9w — Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) October 20, 2021 × What followed was a flurry of tweets in reply to the exchange. (With inputs from agencies)

Goof-up: Pak diplomats discussing minister’s Twitter spat forget to turn off mike during Moscow talks

Regional countries in south and Central Asia on Wednesday supported humanitarian aid for Afghanistan but also called on US to pay up for reconstruction Afghanistan. The joint statement made an indirect reference to the US and its allies who waged a war in Afghanistan for last two decades.

Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Iran and five formerly Soviet Central Asian states joined the Taliban in calling for the United Nations to convene such a conference as soon as possible to help rebuild the country.

They said it should take place "with the understanding, of course, that the main burden...should be borne by the forces whose military contingents have been present in this country over the past 20 years".

It is important to note that the US chose not to attend the talks citing technical reasons, but has said it may join future rounds.

Russia has led calls for international aid. The country fears spillover of conflict into Central Asia, part of the erstwhile Soviet Union and still considered a region in Russia's sphere of influence.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-russia-calls-for-humanitarian-aid-as-it-hosts-taliban-422322">Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban</a>

"Nobody is interested in the complete paralysis of an entire state, which borders, among other things, the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States)," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

The Taliban's resurgence has stirred international fears of a return to their hardline form of Islamist rule in the 1990s, when they hosted Osama bin Laden's al Qaeda movement and carried out egregious human rights violations, including public stonings and the marginalisation of women at work and in schools.

Since returning to power, the Taliban say they have moved as quickly as possible on opening up their government and guaranteeing rights to women, and that they do not represent a threat to any other country.

"Afghanistan will never allow its soil to be used as a base for anyone to threaten the security of another country," Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said.

Abdul Salam Hanafi, the deputy prime minister who led the delegation, said: "Isolating Afghanistan is in no one's interests."

While governments around the world, including Russia, have declined to give official recognition to the Taliban government, the communique recognised the "new reality" of their ascent to power.

SEEKING INFLUENCE

Russia's initiative in hosting the talks is part of an effort to boost its influence in the region after the U.S. pullout. Its main fear is the risk of instability in Central Asia, and possible migrant flows and Islamist militant activity directed from Afghanistan.

The concerns have intensified after a series of attacks by the Afghan affiliate of Islamic State - dubbed Islamic State in Khorasan Province after an ancient name for the region - on mosques and other targets that have killed hundreds of people.

Russia fought its own disastrous war in Afghanistan in the 1980s and has close military and political ties with former Soviet Central Asian republics that border Afghanistan.

As well as saying no militant groups will be able to operate from Afghanistan, the Taliban have said they will safeguard the rights of women and minorities. But many women and girls have been prevented from going to work or school, and the interim cabinet includes only men.

Regional countries in south and Central Asia on Wednesday supported humanitarian aid for Afghanistan but also called on US to pay up for reconstruction Afghanistan.

Regional countries in south and Central Asia on Wednesday supported humanitarian aid for Afghanistan but also called on US to pay up for reconstruction Afghanistan. The joint statement made an indirect reference to the US and its allies who waged a war in Afghanistan for last two decades. Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Iran and five formerly Soviet Central Asian states joined the Taliban in calling for the United Nations to convene such a conference as soon as possible to help rebuild the country. They said it should take place "with the understanding, of course, that the main burden...should be borne by the forces whose military contingents have been present in this country over the past 20 years". It is important to note that the US chose not to attend the talks citing technical reasons, but has said it may join future rounds. Russia has led calls for international aid. The country fears spillover of conflict into Central Asia, part of the erstwhile Soviet Union and still considered a region in Russia's sphere of influence. Also Read | Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban "Nobody is interested in the complete paralysis of an entire state, which borders, among other things, the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States)," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. The Taliban's resurgence has stirred international fears of a return to their hardline form of Islamist rule in the 1990s, when they hosted Osama bin Laden's al Qaeda movement and carried out egregious human rights violations, including public stonings and the marginalisation of women at work and in schools. Since returning to power, the Taliban say they have moved as quickly as possible on opening up their government and guaranteeing rights to women, and that they do not represent a threat to any other country. "Afghanistan will never allow its soil to be used as a base for anyone to threaten the security of another country," Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said. Abdul Salam Hanafi, the deputy prime minister who led the delegation, said: "Isolating Afghanistan is in no one's interests." While governments around the world, including Russia, have declined to give official recognition to the Taliban government, the communique recognised the "new reality" of their ascent to power. SEEKING INFLUENCE Russia's initiative in hosting the talks is part of an effort to boost its influence in the region after the U.S. pullout. Its main fear is the risk of instability in Central Asia, and possible migrant flows and Islamist militant activity directed from Afghanistan. The concerns have intensified after a series of attacks by the Afghan affiliate of Islamic State - dubbed Islamic State in Khorasan Province after an ancient name for the region - on mosques and other targets that have killed hundreds of people. Russia fought its own disastrous war in Afghanistan in the 1980s and has close military and political ties with former Soviet Central Asian republics that border Afghanistan. As well as saying no militant groups will be able to operate from Afghanistan, the Taliban have said they will safeguard the rights of women and minorities. But many women and girls have been prevented from going to work or school, and the interim cabinet includes only men.

Moscow talks: Regional powers support aid for Afghanistan, but ask US to pay as well

India is participating in the Moscow Format meeting on Afghanistan on 20th October, 2021. The meeting will be attended by the representatives of 10 countries, including Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries in Central Asia and a high-level delegation from Taliban.&nbsp;

This is the first meeting of the Moscow Format being held since the Taliban captured power by force on 15th August this year, and also the first collective interaction between the Taliban and regional players since then. The meeting therefore should provide an important opportunity to convey the expectations of the international community from Taliban and listen to the Taliban’s perspective and if possible lay a road map for the stabilisation of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The invitation to India and India’s acceptance are significant in more than one sense. For the first time India would be face-to-face with Taliban delegation within the Moscow format, and it is second &nbsp;officially &nbsp;acknowledged interaction with Taliban since the formation of an interim government in Kabul.

The first interaction took place when Taliban’s representative Stanekzai met India’s Ambassador to Qatar, at the Indian Embassy in Doha on August 31. The meeting was projected as one with limited objective of the safe evacuation of the Indian nationals from Afghanistan and to convey India’s concerns over the presence of anti-India terror outfits in Afghanistan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/two-months-of-taliban-20-challenges-and-threats-420937">Two months of Taliban 2.0: Challenges and threats</a>

It is noteworthy that India has been invited to participate in a dialogue with Taliban, despite the known fact that India has questioned the legitimacy of the interim government in Kabul, and expressed its serious apprehensions over the possible misuse of the Afghan soil for acts of terrorism in the region and beyond.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-is-taliban-interior-minister-haqqanis-face-being-blurred-in-public-photographs-422333">Why is Taliban interior minister Haqqani's face being blurred in public photographs?</a>

The invitation therefore reflects the acknowledgement on the part of other regional players that India can play an important role in the stabilisation of the situation in Afghanistan, and it cannot be excluded from any collective processes which aim at handling the situation arising out of the Taliban’s take-over.

From India’s perspective, the participation in Moscow Format is justified for more than one reason.&nbsp;

Firstly, the agenda of the Moscow Format meeting as revealed by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, is in tune with India’s own priorities and also in line with the demands placed on Taliban through the UNSC Resolution 2593 of 30th August.&nbsp;

For instance, Lavrov was reported to have said,"We encourage them (Taliban) &nbsp;to live up to the promises they made when they came to power, including ensuring that the government is inclusive not only along the ethnic lines, but also along the political lines, so that the full range of political beliefs of the society is reflected in the government's composition”. &nbsp;

He further said that the meeting would focus on the developments related to the political and security situation in Afghanistan, and on the consolidation of the efforts by the international community to prevent humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Significantly, Lavrov is also reported to have said that the recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul was not on the agenda.

Further, and perhaps more importantly, India remained by and large excluded from the processes which were meant to shape the future road-map of Afghanistan, even though India made a valuable contribution towards the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan by investing over $3bn in nearly 500 big and small infrastructure projects during the tenure of the elected governments in Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-us-military-presence-in-the-middle-east-the-less-the-better-420728">Opinion | US military presence in the Middle East: The less the better</a>

Despite being a strategic partner of the USA, India was not kept informed on certain aspects of the deal which the Trump Administration struck with the Taliban on 29th February, 2020. Being a part of the Moscow Format therefore offers an opportunity to stay in the game and remain relevant in a strategic space where India’s adversaries namely Pakistan and China appear to have an edge at this point of time.

It is abundantly clear that India has no intention to sit on the fence and watch in silence, which can only deprive it of the chance to influence the future course of developments in Afghanistan. It must be underlined in this context that India has reportedly invited the National Security Advisors of the countries in the region including China, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan etc. for a meeting on Afghanistan in November this year.

In short India appears to have taken a right decision to participate in the Moscow Format meeting; it would be erroneous to interpret it as softening of India’s attitude towards Taliban or dilution of its principled stand or as a prelude to its recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul. It may, however, not be easy for India to push its point of view in the presence of Pakistan and China. The absence of the USA (which has decided to pull out of the meeting for the time being) would also mean the absence of support from a like-minded partner, though it would not be easy for the adversaries also to sideline India, considering that India can persist on its own and also count on the support from Russia and Iran and some Central Asian countries.

It would be interesting to watch the outcome of the Moscow Format meeting even if it is unlikely to resolve all the issues at hand.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

India is participating in the Moscow Format meeting on Afghanistan on 20th October, 2021. The meeting will be attended by the representatives of 10 countries, including Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries in Central Asia and a high-level delegation from Taliban.

India is participating in the Moscow Format meeting on Afghanistan on 20th October, 2021. The meeting will be attended by the representatives of 10 countries, including Russia, China, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries in Central Asia and a high-level delegation from Taliban. This is the first meeting of the Moscow Format being held since the Taliban captured power by force on 15th August this year, and also the first collective interaction between the Taliban and regional players since then. The meeting therefore should provide an important opportunity to convey the expectations of the international community from Taliban and listen to the Taliban’s perspective and if possible lay a road map for the stabilisation of Afghanistan. The invitation to India and India’s acceptance are significant in more than one sense. For the first time India would be face-to-face with Taliban delegation within the Moscow format, and it is second officially acknowledged interaction with Taliban since the formation of an interim government in Kabul. The first interaction took place when Taliban’s representative Stanekzai met India’s Ambassador to Qatar, at the Indian Embassy in Doha on August 31. The meeting was projected as one with limited objective of the safe evacuation of the Indian nationals from Afghanistan and to convey India’s concerns over the presence of anti-India terror outfits in Afghanistan. Also Read | Two months of Taliban 2.0: Challenges and threats It is noteworthy that India has been invited to participate in a dialogue with Taliban, despite the known fact that India has questioned the legitimacy of the interim government in Kabul, and expressed its serious apprehensions over the possible misuse of the Afghan soil for acts of terrorism in the region and beyond. Also Read | Why is Taliban interior minister Haqqani's face being blurred in public photographs? The invitation therefore reflects the acknowledgement on the part of other regional players that India can play an important role in the stabilisation of the situation in Afghanistan, and it cannot be excluded from any collective processes which aim at handling the situation arising out of the Taliban’s take-over. From India’s perspective, the participation in Moscow Format is justified for more than one reason. Firstly, the agenda of the Moscow Format meeting as revealed by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, is in tune with India’s own priorities and also in line with the demands placed on Taliban through the UNSC Resolution 2593 of 30th August. For instance, Lavrov was reported to have said,"We encourage them (Taliban) to live up to the promises they made when they came to power, including ensuring that the government is inclusive not only along the ethnic lines, but also along the political lines, so that the full range of political beliefs of the society is reflected in the government's composition”. He further said that the meeting would focus on the developments related to the political and security situation in Afghanistan, and on the consolidation of the efforts by the international community to prevent humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Significantly, Lavrov is also reported to have said that the recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul was not on the agenda. Further, and perhaps more importantly, India remained by and large excluded from the processes which were meant to shape the future road-map of Afghanistan, even though India made a valuable contribution towards the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan by investing over $3bn in nearly 500 big and small infrastructure projects during the tenure of the elected governments in Afghanistan. Also Read | Opinion | US military presence in the Middle East: The less the better Despite being a strategic partner of the USA, India was not kept informed on certain aspects of the deal which the Trump Administration struck with the Taliban on 29th February, 2020. Being a part of the Moscow Format therefore offers an opportunity to stay in the game and remain relevant in a strategic space where India’s adversaries namely Pakistan and China appear to have an edge at this point of time. It is abundantly clear that India has no intention to sit on the fence and watch in silence, which can only deprive it of the chance to influence the future course of developments in Afghanistan. It must be underlined in this context that India has reportedly invited the National Security Advisors of the countries in the region including China, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan etc. for a meeting on Afghanistan in November this year. In short India appears to have taken a right decision to participate in the Moscow Format meeting; it would be erroneous to interpret it as softening of India’s attitude towards Taliban or dilution of its principled stand or as a prelude to its recognition of the Taliban-led government in Kabul. It may, however, not be easy for India to push its point of view in the presence of Pakistan and China. The absence of the USA (which has decided to pull out of the meeting for the time being) would also mean the absence of support from a like-minded partner, though it would not be easy for the adversaries also to sideline India, considering that India can persist on its own and also count on the support from Russia and Iran and some Central Asian countries. It would be interesting to watch the outcome of the Moscow Format meeting even if it is unlikely to resolve all the issues at hand. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Moscow talks are a chance for India to influence Afghan situation

Due to logistical issues, the United States will not attend the "Troika Plus" meeting in Moscow this week, according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price at a press conference on Monday.

"We will not participate in the Moscow talks. The Troika Plus has been an effective, constructive forum. We look forward to engaging in that forum going forward, but we’re not in a position to take part this week … It’s just logistically difficult for us to take part this week, " Price said.

Russia, China, the United States, and Pakistan comprise the Troika Plus configuration. 
 
Watch | South Asia Diary | The Taliban return to Bamiyan

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On Friday, Russian Special Presidential Representative for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov stated that the objective of the talks was to reach an agreement on a shared perspective on Afghanistan's changing situation.

The meeting is set to take place on October 19. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malala-sends-letter-to-taliban-one-month-after-girls-school-ban-421804">Also read | Malala sends letter to Taliban one month after girls school ban</a>

The US has been pushing governments not to recognise the Taliban administration in the hopes of gaining influence on important issues, including women's and girls' rights.

Price declined to elaborate on the practical problems that prevented the US from participating.

The discussions come amid an increasing disagreement over the number of diplomats the US is permitted to accredit in Moscow, despite Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agreeing in June to pursue collaboration in other areas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Due to logistical issues, the United States will not attend the "Troika Plus" meeting in Moscow this week, according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price at a press conference on Monday.

Due to logistical issues, the United States will not attend the "Troika Plus" meeting in Moscow this week, according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price at a press conference on Monday. "We will not participate in the Moscow talks. The Troika Plus has been an effective, constructive forum. We look forward to engaging in that forum going forward, but we’re not in a position to take part this week … It’s just logistically difficult for us to take part this week, " Price said. Russia, China, the United States, and Pakistan comprise the Troika Plus configuration. Watch | South Asia Diary | The Taliban return to Bamiyan On Friday, Russian Special Presidential Representative for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov stated that the objective of the talks was to reach an agreement on a shared perspective on Afghanistan's changing situation. The meeting is set to take place on October 19. Also read | Malala sends letter to Taliban one month after girls school ban The US has been pushing governments not to recognise the Taliban administration in the hopes of gaining influence on important issues, including women's and girls' rights. Price declined to elaborate on the practical problems that prevented the US from participating. The discussions come amid an increasing disagreement over the number of diplomats the US is permitted to accredit in Moscow, despite Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agreeing in June to pursue collaboration in other areas. (With inputs from agencies)

US will not attend Moscow talks on Afghanistan this week: Ned Price

As tensions between India and China see no end, Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale jets have conducted some “familiarization sorties” around the Line of Actual Control (LAC)&nbsp;in a bid to keep regular surveillance over the movement of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

According to a report published in The Times of India, the five Rafales, which were formally inducted into service at the Ambala airbase on September 10, have conducted some “familiarization sorties” in Ladakh in recent days.

The IAF is overall boosting the combat readiness in view of “provocative actions” by Chinese troops including the three incidents of shots being fired in the air in the last three weeks.

The news agency ANI has reported that six new major hill features have been occupied by the Indian Army along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) over the past three weeks.

This has allowed our troops to have an edge over the Chinese troops in those areas. These hill features, the sources said, were lying dormant.

Meanwhile, The sixth round of Corps Commander talks between the armies of India and China is scheduled to be held on Monday with a sole focus on the implementation of a five-point agreement reached between the two countries on disengagement of troops and de-escalation of the volatile situation in eastern Ladakh, government sources said on Sunday.

The talks are set to start at 9 AM at Moldo on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, they said.

For the first time, a joint secretary-level officer from the Ministry of External Affairs is expected to be part of the Indian delegation, the sources said, adding India is looking for some concrete outcome from the dialogue.

(With inputs from agencies)

As tensions between India and China see no end, Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale jets have conducted some “familiarization sorties” around the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in a bid to keep regular surveillance over the movement of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

As tensions between India and China see no end, Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale jets have conducted some “familiarization sorties” around the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in a bid to keep regular surveillance over the movement of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). According to a report published in The Times of India, the five Rafales, which were formally inducted into service at the Ambala airbase on September 10, have conducted some “familiarization sorties” in Ladakh in recent days. The IAF is overall boosting the combat readiness in view of “provocative actions” by Chinese troops including the three incidents of shots being fired in the air in the last three weeks. The news agency ANI has reported that six new major hill features have been occupied by the Indian Army along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) over the past three weeks. This has allowed our troops to have an edge over the Chinese troops in those areas. These hill features, the sources said, were lying dormant. Meanwhile, The sixth round of Corps Commander talks between the armies of India and China is scheduled to be held on Monday with a sole focus on the implementation of a five-point agreement reached between the two countries on disengagement of troops and de-escalation of the volatile situation in eastern Ladakh, government sources said on Sunday. The talks are set to start at 9 AM at Moldo on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, they said. For the first time, a joint secretary-level officer from the Ministry of External Affairs is expected to be part of the Indian delegation, the sources said, adding India is looking for some concrete outcome from the dialogue. (With inputs from agencies)

India occupies six new major heights along LAC, Rafales conduct 'familiarisation sorties'

The situation remains calm at the Line of actual control (LAC) since the Moscow pact between Indian and Chinese foreign ministers but Indian army is preparing for a long haul as winters are about to set in in the face-off region. Top government sources told WION, "No major aggressive activity seen in last 5-6 days by Chinese at LAC"

Thursday will mark one week since India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Moscow for over 2 hours. After the meet, both sides came out with a five-point joint statement that called for easing of tensions by disengagement, dialogue and keeping distance between the troops of both countries.

Last week ahead of the Moscow pact, on Monday shots were fired at the line of actual control by the Chinese, the Indian army said in a statement. On Tuesday, the Chinese forces indulged in provocative action all though out the day.

Meanwhile, the Indian army is ready with its operational logistics readiness for a prolonged standoff as winters set in. The Indian army has already stocked special fuel and lubricants for tanks and armoured personnel carriers, including spares for their maintenance.

Maj Gen Arvind Kapoor, Chief of Staff, Fire and Fury Corps speaking to reporters in Ladakh said, "We have enough equipment, state of the art facility--habitat, health and hygiene, best quality ration-- highly nutritional. Chief of army staff has visited Ladah and inspected frontline troops and formations."

The area where forces are on standoff experiences 40 feet of snow in just November and temperatures can go down to minus 30-40 degrees, which is normal. What can make the matter worse is chilly winds can add to the problem.

Sources told WION,"Water points and tube wells have been established for the troops and animals like mules and yaks. “Adding," The living barracks have also been prepared which are comfortable and warm. Facilities such as central heating system are some of the high points of these facilities."

Indian army's Logistic capability relates to mobility, special rations, repair, recovery, heating systems, high quality weapons, ammunition, quality clothing etc. While most of this existed earlier, sources explained, a lot has also been boosted since May this year when China showed first signs of aggression.

Asked about ammunition, sources responded, "various types including small arms, missiles and tank and artillery ammunition have also been adequately stocked. The medical system is also in place for any eventuality."

Indian forces have the advantage of serving in such climates given the experience of Siachen where conditions are much more demanding than the frontiers with China. &nbsp;This experience of "winter warfare" will come in handy as Chinese still have to disengage and drawdown at LAC. &nbsp;

When it comes to connectivity to Ladakh, there were two routes for moving in, one through Zojila and Rohtang Passes. India has now commissioned the third road from Darcha to Leh which is much shorter distance-wise. Completion of Atal tunnel on the Rohtang route has played as "force multiplied the logistic capacities."

Modern snow clearing equipment have been also been placed on the routes to keep them open beyond November so that daily requirements of the troops can be sent. Indian air forces bases will also give the additional advantage of supporting the army.

The situation remains calm at the Line of actual control (LAC) since the Moscow pact between Indian and Chinese foreign ministers but Indian army is preparing for a long haul as winters are about to set in in the face-off region.

The situation remains calm at the Line of actual control (LAC) since the Moscow pact between Indian and Chinese foreign ministers but Indian army is preparing for a long haul as winters are about to set in in the face-off region. Top government sources told WION, "No major aggressive activity seen in last 5-6 days by Chinese at LAC" Thursday will mark one week since India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Moscow for over 2 hours. After the meet, both sides came out with a five-point joint statement that called for easing of tensions by disengagement, dialogue and keeping distance between the troops of both countries. Last week ahead of the Moscow pact, on Monday shots were fired at the line of actual control by the Chinese, the Indian army said in a statement. On Tuesday, the Chinese forces indulged in provocative action all though out the day. Meanwhile, the Indian army is ready with its operational logistics readiness for a prolonged standoff as winters set in. The Indian army has already stocked special fuel and lubricants for tanks and armoured personnel carriers, including spares for their maintenance. Maj Gen Arvind Kapoor, Chief of Staff, Fire and Fury Corps speaking to reporters in Ladakh said, "We have enough equipment, state of the art facility--habitat, health and hygiene, best quality ration-- highly nutritional. Chief of army staff has visited Ladah and inspected frontline troops and formations." The area where forces are on standoff experiences 40 feet of snow in just November and temperatures can go down to minus 30-40 degrees, which is normal. What can make the matter worse is chilly winds can add to the problem. Sources told WION,"Water points and tube wells have been established for the troops and animals like mules and yaks. “Adding," The living barracks have also been prepared which are comfortable and warm. Facilities such as central heating system are some of the high points of these facilities." Indian army's Logistic capability relates to mobility, special rations, repair, recovery, heating systems, high quality weapons, ammunition, quality clothing etc. While most of this existed earlier, sources explained, a lot has also been boosted since May this year when China showed first signs of aggression. Asked about ammunition, sources responded, "various types including small arms, missiles and tank and artillery ammunition have also been adequately stocked. The medical system is also in place for any eventuality." Indian forces have the advantage of serving in such climates given the experience of Siachen where conditions are much more demanding than the frontiers with China. This experience of "winter warfare" will come in handy as Chinese still have to disengage and drawdown at LAC. When it comes to connectivity to Ladakh, there were two routes for moving in, one through Zojila and Rohtang Passes. India has now commissioned the third road from Darcha to Leh which is much shorter distance-wise. Completion of Atal tunnel on the Rohtang route has played as "force multiplied the logistic capacities." Modern snow clearing equipment have been also been placed on the routes to keep them open beyond November so that daily requirements of the troops can be sent. Indian air forces bases will also give the additional advantage of supporting the army.

After Moscow talks, Indian Army prepares for long winter in Ladakh

The Afghan government, which was not invited in last week`s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/moscow-talks-first-step-towards-inter-afghan-dialogue-says-former-afghan-president-karzai-194988">Moscow talks</a>, slammed Russia for allowing the United Nations blacklisted Taliban members to take part in the talks.

“They (Taliban members who are on the UN blacklist) do not have the permission to freely travel, and they are on the terrorist groups’ list in many countries. Russia allowed the members to enter the country despite them being on the UN’s blacklist.” MoFA spokesman Sebghat Ahmadi told TOLOnes on Friday.

The ministry`s remarks came days after the government lodged a complaint with the United Nations over a recent trip by members of the Taliban to Moscow.

“Individuals such as Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai and his fellows who visited Russia are sanctioned by the UN. We have shared with the UN Security Council’s 1988’s committee the visit of those Taliban members to Moscow who are sanctioned by the UN,” added Ahamdi.

The government has criticised the talks from the beginning, by saying that the talks hosted by Russia were against the spirit of Afghan-led and owned peace process. The talks, which were held from February 4 to 7, were attended by 40 Afghan politicians, excluding government officials.

A declaration was signed after the three days talks, stating that all parties in the conference have agreed that a dignified and lasting peace is the aspiration of all the people of Afghanistan and this principle has been achieved in Moscow.

A joint statement of the participants, signed after the meeting, reiterated that the intra-Afghan dialogue must continue on a regular basis in view of the current sensitive situation.

Meanwhile, Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, said that the Taliban will reach a peace agreement with the United States before the Afghan Presidential elections slated to be held on July 20.

The Afghan government, which was not invited in last week`s Moscow talks, slammed Russia for allowing the United Nations blacklisted Taliban members to take part in the talks.

The Afghan government, which was not invited in last week`s Moscow talks, slammed Russia for allowing the United Nations blacklisted Taliban members to take part in the talks. “They (Taliban members who are on the UN blacklist) do not have the permission to freely travel, and they are on the terrorist groups’ list in many countries. Russia allowed the members to enter the country despite them being on the UN’s blacklist.” MoFA spokesman Sebghat Ahmadi told TOLOnes on Friday. The ministry`s remarks came days after the government lodged a complaint with the United Nations over a recent trip by members of the Taliban to Moscow. “Individuals such as Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai and his fellows who visited Russia are sanctioned by the UN. We have shared with the UN Security Council’s 1988’s committee the visit of those Taliban members to Moscow who are sanctioned by the UN,” added Ahamdi. The government has criticised the talks from the beginning, by saying that the talks hosted by Russia were against the spirit of Afghan-led and owned peace process. The talks, which were held from February 4 to 7, were attended by 40 Afghan politicians, excluding government officials. A declaration was signed after the three days talks, stating that all parties in the conference have agreed that a dignified and lasting peace is the aspiration of all the people of Afghanistan and this principle has been achieved in Moscow. A joint statement of the participants, signed after the meeting, reiterated that the intra-Afghan dialogue must continue on a regular basis in view of the current sensitive situation. Meanwhile, Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, said that the Taliban will reach a peace agreement with the United States before the Afghan Presidential elections slated to be held on July 20.

Afghan Government slams Russia for allowing UN blacklisted Taliban to attend Moscow talks

Former President Hamid Karzai on Sunday said talks between Afghan government and the Taliban representatives will promote in creating a national and regional consensus for peace.

Karzai&nbsp;will attend the upcoming peace talks in Moscow slated to be held on held on February 5 and 6.

Tolo News quoted Karzai as saying that the Moscow talks are of major importance in terms of changing the aspirations of the Afghan people regaining peace in the region.

Karzai further added that he will be attending the meeting in order to complete his obligation towards his country and its people of reaching a deal that could end the 17-year old conflict in Afghanistan.

"In view of recent peace efforts by the US, we hope that Moscow meeting proves effective towards creating a national and regional consensus for peace," Karzai said.

"The peace process should also lead to the protection of rights and liberties of the Afghan people, women’s right to education and their economic, social &amp; political rights," the former President added.

Apart from Karzai, the meeting would be attended by former Vice President Mohammad Yunus Qanuni, former Balkh governor and Jamiat-e-Islami member Atta Mohammad Noor, Jamiat-e-Islami member Mohammad Ismail Khan, second deputy chief executive and Wahday party member Mohammad Mohaqiq, head of National Islamic Front of Afghanistan Sayed Hamid Gailani, and son of former president Sebghatullah Mujaddedi, Zabihullah Mujaddedi, along with the representatives of Taliban.

The Moscow talks came after officials from over 40 countries attended the International Contact Group meeting in London, this week, including US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad and President Ashraf Ghani’s Special Representative on Regional Affairs for Consensus on Peace Umer Daudzai, to announce their support to the Afghan peace process.

Former President Hamid Karzai on Sunday said talks between Afghan government and the Taliban representatives will promote in creating a national and regional consensus for peace.

Former President Hamid Karzai on Sunday said talks between Afghan government and the Taliban representatives will promote in creating a national and regional consensus for peace. Karzai will attend the upcoming peace talks in Moscow slated to be held on held on February 5 and 6. Tolo News quoted Karzai as saying that the Moscow talks are of major importance in terms of changing the aspirations of the Afghan people regaining peace in the region. Karzai further added that he will be attending the meeting in order to complete his obligation towards his country and its people of reaching a deal that could end the 17-year old conflict in Afghanistan. "In view of recent peace efforts by the US, we hope that Moscow meeting proves effective towards creating a national and regional consensus for peace," Karzai said. "The peace process should also lead to the protection of rights and liberties of the Afghan people, women’s right to education and their economic, social & political rights," the former President added. Apart from Karzai, the meeting would be attended by former Vice President Mohammad Yunus Qanuni, former Balkh governor and Jamiat-e-Islami member Atta Mohammad Noor, Jamiat-e-Islami member Mohammad Ismail Khan, second deputy chief executive and Wahday party member Mohammad Mohaqiq, head of National Islamic Front of Afghanistan Sayed Hamid Gailani, and son of former president Sebghatullah Mujaddedi, Zabihullah Mujaddedi, along with the representatives of Taliban. The Moscow talks came after officials from over 40 countries attended the International Contact Group meeting in London, this week, including US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad and President Ashraf Ghani’s Special Representative on Regional Affairs for Consensus on Peace Umer Daudzai, to announce their support to the Afghan peace process.

'Moscow talks first step towards inter-Afghan dialogue', says former Afghan President Karzai

India on Thursday said it will participate in the meeting being hosted by Russia on Afghanistan at a "non-official level" in Moscow where representatives of the Taliban will be present.

The Moscow-format meeting on Afghanistan will be held on November 9 and representatives of the Afghan Taliban radical movement will take part in it, the Russian Foreign Ministry had said last week.

In response to queries regarding India's participation in the meeting, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are aware that the Russian Federation is hosting a meeting in Moscow on 9 November on Afghanistan."

"Our participation at the meeting will be at the non-official level," he said.

India supports all efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan that will preserve unity and plurality, and bring security, stability and prosperity to the country, he said.

"India's consistent policy has been that such efforts should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with participation of the government of Afghanistan," Kumar asserted.

According to Russian news agency TASS, this is for the second time, Russia is attempting to bring regional powers together while discovering ways for establishing peace in war-torn Afghanistan.

The first such meeting, proposed for September 4 of this year, was called off at the last moment after the Afghan government pulled out, describing its involvement in the Moscow meeting as "unnecessary" as the Taliban had "disrespected internationally-sanctioned principles and rejected the message of peace and direct negotiations."

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, invitations to take part in the event had been sent to Afghanistan, India, Iran, China, Pakistan, the US and some other countries.

The meeting comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks a host of global issues.

After the talks, in a joint statement, the two sides declared their support to the Afghan government's efforts towards the realisation of an Afghan-led, and Afghan-owned national peace reconciliation process.

Both sides had called upon the international community to join efforts to thwart any external interference in Afghanistan, to restore its economy, contribute to sustaining peace and security, economic and political development of a stable, secure, united, prosperous and independent Afghanistan.

India and Russia had resolved to direct their activities towards launching joint development and capacity building projects in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India on Thursday said it will participate in the meeting being hosted by Russia on Afghanistan at a "non-official level" in Moscow where representatives of the Taliban will be present.

India on Thursday said it will participate in the meeting being hosted by Russia on Afghanistan at a "non-official level" in Moscow where representatives of the Taliban will be present. The Moscow-format meeting on Afghanistan will be held on November 9 and representatives of the Afghan Taliban radical movement will take part in it, the Russian Foreign Ministry had said last week. In response to queries regarding India's participation in the meeting, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are aware that the Russian Federation is hosting a meeting in Moscow on 9 November on Afghanistan." "Our participation at the meeting will be at the non-official level," he said. India supports all efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan that will preserve unity and plurality, and bring security, stability and prosperity to the country, he said. "India's consistent policy has been that such efforts should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with participation of the government of Afghanistan," Kumar asserted. According to Russian news agency TASS, this is for the second time, Russia is attempting to bring regional powers together while discovering ways for establishing peace in war-torn Afghanistan. The first such meeting, proposed for September 4 of this year, was called off at the last moment after the Afghan government pulled out, describing its involvement in the Moscow meeting as "unnecessary" as the Taliban had "disrespected internationally-sanctioned principles and rejected the message of peace and direct negotiations." According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, invitations to take part in the event had been sent to Afghanistan, India, Iran, China, Pakistan, the US and some other countries. The meeting comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks a host of global issues. After the talks, in a joint statement, the two sides declared their support to the Afghan government's efforts towards the realisation of an Afghan-led, and Afghan-owned national peace reconciliation process. Both sides had called upon the international community to join efforts to thwart any external interference in Afghanistan, to restore its economy, contribute to sustaining peace and security, economic and political development of a stable, secure, united, prosperous and independent Afghanistan. India and Russia had resolved to direct their activities towards launching joint development and capacity building projects in Afghanistan.

India to participate in Moscow talks with Taliban at 'non-official level'

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