China has made huge investments in Pakistan in the energy sector under the US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor initiative and Beijing will provide US $1 billion grant to Islamabad for the socio-economic development in the country, a minister said Friday.

Addressing a seminar by the CPEC Forum in Islamabad, Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar said industrial and agricultural development will be targeted in the next phase of CPEC.

"Cooperation in education, health, water, poverty alleviation and other sectors has been included in socio-economic development," Bakhtiar said at the seminar titled Regional Cooperation and Industrial Development through Business to Business Cooperation.

He urged the private sector to take a lead in the industrial development, asserting that cooperation in the industrial sector will further strengthen relationship between Pakistan and China.

China will provide US $1 billion grant to Pakistan for the socio-economic development, he said.

China has made huge investments in the energy sector under the CPEC which was launched in 2015 when President Xi Jinping visited the country, he added.

Bakhtiar said China had offered free access for export of 313 Pakistani items and a Pakistan-China Business Forum is being set up to promote trade between the two countries.

The CPEC Forum provides platform for exchange of ideas on the CPEC, and the latest event was a collaboration between Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, Pakistan China Institute, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Research and Development International.

The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of Chinese President Xi's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

India has been boycotting the BRI to protest over the CPEC being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

China has made huge investments in Pakistan in the energy sector under the US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor initiative and Beijing will provide US $1 billion grant to Islamabad for the socio-economic development in the country, a minister said Friday.

China has made huge investments in Pakistan in the energy sector under the US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor initiative and Beijing will provide US $1 billion grant to Islamabad for the socio-economic development in the country, a minister said Friday. Addressing a seminar by the CPEC Forum in Islamabad, Minister for Planning and Development Khusro Bakhtiar said industrial and agricultural development will be targeted in the next phase of CPEC. "Cooperation in education, health, water, poverty alleviation and other sectors has been included in socio-economic development," Bakhtiar said at the seminar titled Regional Cooperation and Industrial Development through Business to Business Cooperation. He urged the private sector to take a lead in the industrial development, asserting that cooperation in the industrial sector will further strengthen relationship between Pakistan and China. China will provide US $1 billion grant to Pakistan for the socio-economic development, he said. China has made huge investments in the energy sector under the CPEC which was launched in 2015 when President Xi Jinping visited the country, he added. Bakhtiar said China had offered free access for export of 313 Pakistani items and a Pakistan-China Business Forum is being set up to promote trade between the two countries. The CPEC Forum provides platform for exchange of ideas on the CPEC, and the latest event was a collaboration between Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, Pakistan China Institute, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Research and Development International. The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of Chinese President Xi's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India has been boycotting the BRI to protest over the CPEC being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

China to provide $1 billion grant to Pakistan for socio-economic development

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari's remand was extended by 11 days on Friday by an accountability court in the money laundering case.

Zardari, 63, who is Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will now remain in the custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) till July 2, the Dawn reported.

He was arrested on June 10 by the anti-corruption body after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea in the case.

Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.

A day after his arrest, accountability court judge Mohammad Arshad Malik granted NAB his physical remand and ordered that Zardari be presented before the court again on June 21.

Earlier on Friday, a NAB team produced the former president before Judge Malik and sought a two-week extension in Zardari's remand, the report said.

But the judge extended Zardari's remand by 11 days.&nbsp;

During the hearing, the anti-graft body presented its report in the probe and NAB deputy prosecutor general Muzaffar Khan Abbasi also submitted a report of Zardari's medical check-up, the report said.

When the judge asked Abbasi to share what the agency had uncovered so far, he said during the investigation, Zardari had admitted to having a close relationship with a fugitive named Nasir Abdullah.

However, Zardari did not admit that Abdullah was his frontman, he added.

Zardari's counsel Latif Khosa said: "They (NAB) have not found out anything, they were just making up stories because this entire case is based upon assumptions."

Khosa said that in his statement, the former president had said that he knew Abdullah but they had not had any financial exchanges.

"It is not a crime to know a person," said Farooq H Naek, the other lawyer representing Zardari.

Khosa further added, "Cases are being made against us on a political basis.

"This is not the first time this is happening with us, it has also happened in the past," he added.

According to the NAB officials, Zardari and his sister made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari's remand was extended by 11 days on Friday by an accountability court in the money laundering case. Zardari, 63, who is Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will now remain in the custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) till July 2, the Dawn reported.

Former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari's remand was extended by 11 days on Friday by an accountability court in the money laundering case. Zardari, 63, who is Co-Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will now remain in the custody of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) till July 2, the Dawn reported. He was arrested on June 10 by the anti-corruption body after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea in the case. Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. A day after his arrest, accountability court judge Mohammad Arshad Malik granted NAB his physical remand and ordered that Zardari be presented before the court again on June 21. Earlier on Friday, a NAB team produced the former president before Judge Malik and sought a two-week extension in Zardari's remand, the report said. But the judge extended Zardari's remand by 11 days. During the hearing, the anti-graft body presented its report in the probe and NAB deputy prosecutor general Muzaffar Khan Abbasi also submitted a report of Zardari's medical check-up, the report said. When the judge asked Abbasi to share what the agency had uncovered so far, he said during the investigation, Zardari had admitted to having a close relationship with a fugitive named Nasir Abdullah. However, Zardari did not admit that Abdullah was his frontman, he added. Zardari's counsel Latif Khosa said: "They (NAB) have not found out anything, they were just making up stories because this entire case is based upon assumptions." Khosa said that in his statement, the former president had said that he knew Abdullah but they had not had any financial exchanges. "It is not a crime to know a person," said Farooq H Naek, the other lawyer representing Zardari. Khosa further added, "Cases are being made against us on a political basis. "This is not the first time this is happening with us, it has also happened in the past," he added. According to the NAB officials, Zardari and his sister made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.

Pakistan anti-graft court extends Asif Ali Zardari's remand till July 2

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday dismissed Pakistan's claim that said PM Modi wrote a letter to Imran Khan expressing a desire to resume talks between the two countries.

Addressing a press conference, MEA spokesperson clarified that the letter sent by India was under established democratic protocol.

He also added that the letter stressed India's objective of maintaining&nbsp;cooperative relationships with all nations in South Asia.

Raveesh Kumar said, "There is no change in our position. We wrote a letter under the established democratic protocol of replying to congratulatory messages. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was also given a reply. Our EAM also replied to his counterpart."

Further reiterating&nbsp;India's stance over talks with Pakistan Kumar said the contents of the letter clarified that "terror and violence-free environment was necessary for normal and cooperative relation with the countries".

"The letter said that a terror and violence free environment is necessary for normal and cooperative relation with the countries. We only reiterated our stand in the letter. There was nothing in that letter that spoke about "talks" (between India and Pakistan)", he said."

"I think we've made it clear time and again that Pakistan has to take action which is irreversible. Unless we are convinced that action has been taken on the ground, and not the temporary action which we have seen several times in the past. We won't be fooled by some cosmetic action, " he added.

Raveesh Kumar also added that the letter by PM Modi to his Pakistani counterpart also included talks on early operationalisation of Kartarpur Corridor.

"In the letter that PM Narendra Modi wrote to Pakistan PM Imran Khan had mentioned about Kartarpur Corridor as well. It was written that 'We will continue to work for early operationalisation of Kartarpur Corridor, functional all year round', " he said.

Hitting out at Pakistan, Kumar said Pak media has the mentality of distorting facts.

"We have seen the mentality of distorting facts in Pakistan media in this case, like how they distorted this simple straight-forward letter. Letter says that India wants to maintain cooperative relation with all nations in South Asia".

MEA spokesperson also talked about the visit of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Kumar said, "It'll be first high-level engagement with United States after elections in India. &nbsp;During his visit, he will hold talks with the External Affairs Minister and he will also call on other dignitaries in Government of India."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to visit India from June 25-27.

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday dismissed Pakistan's claim that said PM Modi wrote a letter to Imran Khan expressing a desire to resume talks between the two countries.

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday dismissed Pakistan's claim that said PM Modi wrote a letter to Imran Khan expressing a desire to resume talks between the two countries. Addressing a press conference, MEA spokesperson clarified that the letter sent by India was under established democratic protocol. He also added that the letter stressed India's objective of maintaining cooperative relationships with all nations in South Asia. Raveesh Kumar said, "There is no change in our position. We wrote a letter under the established democratic protocol of replying to congratulatory messages. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was also given a reply. Our EAM also replied to his counterpart." Further reiterating India's stance over talks with Pakistan Kumar said the contents of the letter clarified that "terror and violence-free environment was necessary for normal and cooperative relation with the countries". "The letter said that a terror and violence free environment is necessary for normal and cooperative relation with the countries. We only reiterated our stand in the letter. There was nothing in that letter that spoke about "talks" (between India and Pakistan)", he said." "I think we've made it clear time and again that Pakistan has to take action which is irreversible. Unless we are convinced that action has been taken on the ground, and not the temporary action which we have seen several times in the past. We won't be fooled by some cosmetic action, " he added. Raveesh Kumar also added that the letter by PM Modi to his Pakistani counterpart also included talks on early operationalisation of Kartarpur Corridor. "In the letter that PM Narendra Modi wrote to Pakistan PM Imran Khan had mentioned about Kartarpur Corridor as well. It was written that 'We will continue to work for early operationalisation of Kartarpur Corridor, functional all year round', " he said. Hitting out at Pakistan, Kumar said Pak media has the mentality of distorting facts. "We have seen the mentality of distorting facts in Pakistan media in this case, like how they distorted this simple straight-forward letter. Letter says that India wants to maintain cooperative relation with all nations in South Asia". MEA spokesperson also talked about the visit of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Kumar said, "It'll be first high-level engagement with United States after elections in India. During his visit, he will hold talks with the External Affairs Minister and he will also call on other dignitaries in Government of India." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to visit India from June 25-27.

Pak media has the mentality of distorting facts: MEA on Pakistan's claim on PM Modi's letter

A court in Pakistan has issued a death warrant to a mentally unwell prisoner, paving the way for his execution on June 18 amidst growing concern among human rights groups, a media report said on Sunday.

Ghulam Abbas, 36, a death row prisoner languishing in jail for 13 years, was sentenced to death in 2006 by a district and sessions court in Rawalpindi for stabbing one of his neighbours.&nbsp;

Abbas, who has clear symptoms of mental illness, was issued the death warrant by the session court in Rawalpindi, Dawn news reported.

Following the death warrant, there have been calls from human rights organisations to halt the execution considering the mental illness of the prisoner.&nbsp;

Justice Projects Pakistan, an human rights law firm, said that Abbas' execution should be stayed and he should be transferred to a mental health facility.&nbsp;

"Abbas' execution must be stayed and he should be transferred to a mental health facility to be comprehensively assessed, " Sarah Belal from JPP was quoted as saying by the paper.&nbsp;

Malik Hussain Mubbashar, a psychiatrist appointed by the Supreme Court in the case, said the medical examination records showed that jail authorities had treated him with strong anti-psychotic drugs.&nbsp;

He said that Abbas had a genetic predisposition to mental illness because of his family history of mental illness.

"It is imperative I be allowed to visit Abbas in jail to assess his mental health and physical condition. In my professional opinion, he should be shifted to the Centre for Mental Health, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, for proper care," he said.

A fresh mercy petition has been filed requesting the president to grant him a reprieve.

A court in Pakistan has issued a death warrant to a mentally unwell prisoner, paving the way for his execution on June 18 amidst growing concern among human rights groups, a media report said on Sunday.

A court in Pakistan has issued a death warrant to a mentally unwell prisoner, paving the way for his execution on June 18 amidst growing concern among human rights groups, a media report said on Sunday. Ghulam Abbas, 36, a death row prisoner languishing in jail for 13 years, was sentenced to death in 2006 by a district and sessions court in Rawalpindi for stabbing one of his neighbours. Abbas, who has clear symptoms of mental illness, was issued the death warrant by the session court in Rawalpindi, Dawn news reported. Following the death warrant, there have been calls from human rights organisations to halt the execution considering the mental illness of the prisoner. Justice Projects Pakistan, an human rights law firm, said that Abbas' execution should be stayed and he should be transferred to a mental health facility. "Abbas' execution must be stayed and he should be transferred to a mental health facility to be comprehensively assessed, " Sarah Belal from JPP was quoted as saying by the paper. Malik Hussain Mubbashar, a psychiatrist appointed by the Supreme Court in the case, said the medical examination records showed that jail authorities had treated him with strong anti-psychotic drugs. He said that Abbas had a genetic predisposition to mental illness because of his family history of mental illness. "It is imperative I be allowed to visit Abbas in jail to assess his mental health and physical condition. In my professional opinion, he should be shifted to the Centre for Mental Health, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, for proper care," he said. A fresh mercy petition has been filed requesting the president to grant him a reprieve.

Pakistan court issues death warrant to mentally ill prisoner

Pakistan has taken some "important" steps against terror groups post Pulwama attack but they are still reversible, a top US official said Wednesday, urging the Pakistani leadership to take sustained actions against terrorists operating in the country.

Terrorist organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) will continue to pose a grave risk to international peace as long as they are able to operate freely in Pakistan, Alice G Wells, Senior State Department Official for South and Central Asian Affairs told House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation.

"On the broader issue of counter-terrorism, the Pulwama terrorist attack in February that sparked a crisis between India and Pakistan underscored the importance and immediate need to halt terrorist activity in the region," she said in a prepared statement.

The sub-committee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing US Interests in South Asia and the FY 2020 Budget on Thursday.&nbsp;

"We continue to urge Pakistan's leaders to make good on their pledges to take sustained and irreversible actions against terrorist groups operating within the country's borders, which is necessary for the long-term stability and prosperity of the region," she said.&nbsp;

"In recent months, we have seen Pakistan detain some militants and seize assets belonging to front organisations raising funds for terrorist groups. While these steps are important, they are still reversible," she told the lawmakers.&nbsp;

She asserting that Pakistan must sustain these measures and expand upon them, including by prosecuting terrorist leaders.

"On a multilateral level, we succeeded on May 1 in listing JeM leader Masood Azhar at the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee" an achievement 10 years in the making. His listing sends an important message that the international community will not tolerate terrorism," she said.

Wells said that US relationship with Pakistan remains one of its most complex and most consequential.&nbsp;

In line with the Trump administration's South Asia strategy, its approach to Pakistan has focused largely on securing Islamabad's support for the Afghan peace process and for Pakistan to follow through on its pledges to take sustained and irreversible actions against all militant groups operating from within its territory, she said.&nbsp;

"Our engagement with Pakistan on nonproliferation issues is also crucial. The US and Pakistan both attach high importance to preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We remain concerned, however, about Pakistan's development of certain categories of nuclear weapons and delivery systems," Wells said.&nbsp;

On Afghanistan reconciliation, she said, "We recognise that Pakistan has taken steps to encourage Taliban participation in peace negotiations, which has been important to the progress we have made thus far."

"However, there is much more work to be done to achieve our ultimate goal of a peaceful Afghanistan free of terrorist groups," she said.&nbsp;

"Pakistani officials are correct when they say that no other country will benefit more from a peaceful Afghanistan than Pakistan, and we expect Pakistan to continue to play a constructive role in reconciliation efforts," she added.&nbsp;

Wells said that sustained progress on these two issues "reconciliation and counterterrorism " will lie at the heart of a renewed bilateral relationship.

"We believe in the potential of the US-Pakistan relationship to foster regional stability and economic prosperity," she said.&nbsp;

In the next year's budget, she said the Trump administration will focus civilian assistance programming on priority areas such as building capacity to deter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; building law enforcement capacity to fight crime and terrorism; and supporting economic development that can expand US business ties with Pakistan.

It will also focus on addressing communicable diseases that threaten both the countries; supporting civil society and religious freedom; and working with Pakistan to ensure that communities in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region are stable and cannot be used as a base by terrorists, she said.&nbsp;

"The request reflects the trajectory of our relationship away from an assistance focus and toward a more trade-based one, and the bright economic future we believe a more robust US-Pakistan partnership can bring for Pakistan and the region, should Pakistan follow through on its pledges to fight terrorism and promote peace in Afghanistan," Wells said.

Pakistan has taken some "important" steps against terror groups post Pulwama attack but they are still reversible, a top US official said Wednesday, urging the Pakistani leadership to take sustained actions against terrorists operating in the country.

Pakistan has taken some "important" steps against terror groups post Pulwama attack but they are still reversible, a top US official said Wednesday, urging the Pakistani leadership to take sustained actions against terrorists operating in the country. Terrorist organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) will continue to pose a grave risk to international peace as long as they are able to operate freely in Pakistan, Alice G Wells, Senior State Department Official for South and Central Asian Affairs told House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation. "On the broader issue of counter-terrorism, the Pulwama terrorist attack in February that sparked a crisis between India and Pakistan underscored the importance and immediate need to halt terrorist activity in the region," she said in a prepared statement. The sub-committee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing US Interests in South Asia and the FY 2020 Budget on Thursday. "We continue to urge Pakistan's leaders to make good on their pledges to take sustained and irreversible actions against terrorist groups operating within the country's borders, which is necessary for the long-term stability and prosperity of the region," she said. "In recent months, we have seen Pakistan detain some militants and seize assets belonging to front organisations raising funds for terrorist groups. While these steps are important, they are still reversible," she told the lawmakers. She asserting that Pakistan must sustain these measures and expand upon them, including by prosecuting terrorist leaders. "On a multilateral level, we succeeded on May 1 in listing JeM leader Masood Azhar at the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee" an achievement 10 years in the making. His listing sends an important message that the international community will not tolerate terrorism," she said. Wells said that US relationship with Pakistan remains one of its most complex and most consequential. In line with the Trump administration's South Asia strategy, its approach to Pakistan has focused largely on securing Islamabad's support for the Afghan peace process and for Pakistan to follow through on its pledges to take sustained and irreversible actions against all militant groups operating from within its territory, she said. "Our engagement with Pakistan on nonproliferation issues is also crucial. The US and Pakistan both attach high importance to preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We remain concerned, however, about Pakistan's development of certain categories of nuclear weapons and delivery systems," Wells said. On Afghanistan reconciliation, she said, "We recognise that Pakistan has taken steps to encourage Taliban participation in peace negotiations, which has been important to the progress we have made thus far." "However, there is much more work to be done to achieve our ultimate goal of a peaceful Afghanistan free of terrorist groups," she said. "Pakistani officials are correct when they say that no other country will benefit more from a peaceful Afghanistan than Pakistan, and we expect Pakistan to continue to play a constructive role in reconciliation efforts," she added. Wells said that sustained progress on these two issues "reconciliation and counterterrorism " will lie at the heart of a renewed bilateral relationship. "We believe in the potential of the US-Pakistan relationship to foster regional stability and economic prosperity," she said. In the next year's budget, she said the Trump administration will focus civilian assistance programming on priority areas such as building capacity to deter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; building law enforcement capacity to fight crime and terrorism; and supporting economic development that can expand US business ties with Pakistan. It will also focus on addressing communicable diseases that threaten both the countries; supporting civil society and religious freedom; and working with Pakistan to ensure that communities in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region are stable and cannot be used as a base by terrorists, she said. "The request reflects the trajectory of our relationship away from an assistance focus and toward a more trade-based one, and the bright economic future we believe a more robust US-Pakistan partnership can bring for Pakistan and the region, should Pakistan follow through on its pledges to fight terrorism and promote peace in Afghanistan," Wells said.

Pakistan's action against terror groups post Pulwama attack still reversible: US

Scott Perry, a member of the US Congress from Pennsylvania, reaffirmed support to the religious and ethnic minorities, who came together on Tuesday to stop religious radicalism in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan.

Scores of South Asian experts, members of the US Senate and House of representatives flocked the Capitol Hill to discuss and urge Pakistan to stop the persecution of ethnic and religious groups.

While speaking to ANI, Perry said, "Pakistan needs to be isolated among the community of nations if they continue to harbour terrorism."

Perry also highlighted the plight of all suffering ethnic and religious groups and how Pakistan has not yet taken any strong action against the terrorism operating from its soil.

"We don`t support the fact that minorities are being suppressed anywhere for their religious beliefs or otherwise, and this is one of the reasons why the United States-Pakistan relations remain strenuous because we cannot accept that," Perry told ANI.

Earlier this year, the lawmaker introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives demanding action by Pakistan on eliminating safe haven to terrorists.&nbsp;

The resolution also condemned the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) on February 14 that killed 40 Indian security personnel.

"Pakistan has to understand that there is no upside gain in allowing this (terror), whether they support it or allow it. They may not be committing it but these are crimes of omission which allows it to occur and then turn your face as it occurs. There can be no upsides or no profits for Pakistan on allowing terror," the lawmaker added.

Echoing Perry`s contention, representatives of Mohajirs, Pashtun and Baloch communities on Tuesday briefed the gathering about the human rights violation and discrimination being faced by their communities in Pakistan.

The group was led by the Voice of Karachi and South Asia Minorities Alliance foundation chairman Nadeem Nusrat.&nbsp;

He particularly pointed out the devastating effects that every ethnic and religious group in Pakistan is suffering.

"There are ways to put pressure on Pakistan, either through sanctions or involving the European countries, in order to provide relief to the minorities. We are not demanding any charity. As citizens we have rights but Pakistan has only guaranteed those on papers," Nusrat noted.

"We raised the issue of Karachi and other urban parts of Pakistan, where human rights violations have been taking place on a massive scale. While we bring to light the plight of religious minorities, we also talk about the persecution of ethnic minorities in Pakistan," he further said.

Scott Perry, a member of the US Congress from Pennsylvania, reaffirmed support to the religious and ethnic minorities, who came together on Tuesday to stop religious radicalism in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan.

Scott Perry, a member of the US Congress from Pennsylvania, reaffirmed support to the religious and ethnic minorities, who came together on Tuesday to stop religious radicalism in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan. Scores of South Asian experts, members of the US Senate and House of representatives flocked the Capitol Hill to discuss and urge Pakistan to stop the persecution of ethnic and religious groups. While speaking to ANI, Perry said, "Pakistan needs to be isolated among the community of nations if they continue to harbour terrorism." Perry also highlighted the plight of all suffering ethnic and religious groups and how Pakistan has not yet taken any strong action against the terrorism operating from its soil. "We don`t support the fact that minorities are being suppressed anywhere for their religious beliefs or otherwise, and this is one of the reasons why the United States-Pakistan relations remain strenuous because we cannot accept that," Perry told ANI. Earlier this year, the lawmaker introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives demanding action by Pakistan on eliminating safe haven to terrorists. The resolution also condemned the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) on February 14 that killed 40 Indian security personnel. "Pakistan has to understand that there is no upside gain in allowing this (terror), whether they support it or allow it. They may not be committing it but these are crimes of omission which allows it to occur and then turn your face as it occurs. There can be no upsides or no profits for Pakistan on allowing terror," the lawmaker added. Echoing Perry`s contention, representatives of Mohajirs, Pashtun and Baloch communities on Tuesday briefed the gathering about the human rights violation and discrimination being faced by their communities in Pakistan. The group was led by the Voice of Karachi and South Asia Minorities Alliance foundation chairman Nadeem Nusrat. He particularly pointed out the devastating effects that every ethnic and religious group in Pakistan is suffering. "There are ways to put pressure on Pakistan, either through sanctions or involving the European countries, in order to provide relief to the minorities. We are not demanding any charity. As citizens we have rights but Pakistan has only guaranteed those on papers," Nusrat noted. "We raised the issue of Karachi and other urban parts of Pakistan, where human rights violations have been taking place on a massive scale. While we bring to light the plight of religious minorities, we also talk about the persecution of ethnic minorities in Pakistan," he further said.

Isolate Pakistan if it harbours terrorism: US Congressman

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/our-debt-has-gone-up-to-205-billion-in-the-last-decade-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-in-national-address-225840">huge debts incurred during the last 10 years</a>, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases.&nbsp;

In an unusual midnight speech after the first budget of his cash-strapped government was presented, Khan said that all economic problem was due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-asks-pakistanis-to-declare-their-undisclosed-assets-by-jun-30-225963">debt which increased to Rs 300 crore</a> from Rs 60 crore in 10 years.&nbsp;

His speech came on the day when Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in cases related to money laundering.&nbsp;

On Monday, former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/zardari-produced-before-court-anti-graft-body-seeks-physical-remand-226185">Asif Ali Zardari </a>was also arrested by the NAB in connection with a multi-million dollar money laundering case.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/nawaz-sharif-quizzed-in-jail-by-anti-graft-body-over-illegal-purchase-of-over-30-bulletproof-vehicles-222338">Nawaz Sharif </a>(from the PML-N party) is already in jail having been sentenced in another corruption case in 2018.

Khan announced that after putting to rest the initial focus of the government to stabilise the economy, his attention would be more targeted towards bringing the ones to task who had caused the country to fall into such dire straits.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION</a>

"Pakistan is stable now. That pressure [to stabilise the economy] has been relieved. Now I will go after them [the corrupt politicians]," declared the prime minister.

"I'm making a high-powered enquiry commission with a one-point agenda: how did they raise the debt to Rs 24,000 billion (240 crore) in 10 years?"

He said that the commission shall comprise the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), IB (Intelligence Bureau), ISI (the Inter-services Intelligence Directorate), FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan).&nbsp;

The Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz served in two successive terms since 2008 when Khan claimed debt increased.

Khan said that the commission will include representatives of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).

He said that those who were in helms of affairs during last 10 years will not be spared.

Watch: Is the IMF bailout a&nbsp;Lifeline for Pakistan's economy?

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"All those in power will be fully investigated by this commission which will prepare a report so that no one dares leave the country in tatters ever again," he said.&nbsp;

"Even if my life goes, I will not leave these thieves alone. I had prayed to God to give me one chance. I will not leave them."

He blamed the two previous governments for all ills including low growth, joblessness and devaluations.

Khan's government has been heavily criticised for the politically-motivated arrests in corruption cases, but he defended them.

Khan said he would not be "blackmailed" with protests.&nbsp;

Talking about the recent arrests of the bigwigs, Khan said, "I am grateful to Allah, the big figures who are now jailed, no one could have imagined [it could be done]."&nbsp;

"People are crying that Sharif and Zardari have been jailed [...] both of them used to call each other corrupt. Mian Nawaz Sharif jailed Zardari twice during his two tenures.

The prime minister said that they [Nawaz and Zardari] came to an agreement that each would rule for five years and "not say anything to each other".&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe huge debts incurred during the last 10 years, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe huge debts incurred during the last 10 years, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases. In an unusual midnight speech after the first budget of his cash-strapped government was presented, Khan said that all economic problem was due to debt which increased to Rs 300 crore from Rs 60 crore in 10 years. His speech came on the day when Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in cases related to money laundering. On Monday, former president Asif Ali Zardari was also arrested by the NAB in connection with a multi-million dollar money laundering case. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (from the PML-N party) is already in jail having been sentenced in another corruption case in 2018. Khan announced that after putting to rest the initial focus of the government to stabilise the economy, his attention would be more targeted towards bringing the ones to task who had caused the country to fall into such dire straits. Also read: Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION "Pakistan is stable now. That pressure [to stabilise the economy] has been relieved. Now I will go after them [the corrupt politicians]," declared the prime minister. "I'm making a high-powered enquiry commission with a one-point agenda: how did they raise the debt to Rs 24,000 billion (240 crore) in 10 years?" He said that the commission shall comprise the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), IB (Intelligence Bureau), ISI (the Inter-services Intelligence Directorate), FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan). The Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz served in two successive terms since 2008 when Khan claimed debt increased. Khan said that the commission will include representatives of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). He said that those who were in helms of affairs during last 10 years will not be spared. Watch: Is the IMF bailout a Lifeline for Pakistan's economy? × "All those in power will be fully investigated by this commission which will prepare a report so that no one dares leave the country in tatters ever again," he said. "Even if my life goes, I will not leave these thieves alone. I had prayed to God to give me one chance. I will not leave them." He blamed the two previous governments for all ills including low growth, joblessness and devaluations. Khan's government has been heavily criticised for the politically-motivated arrests in corruption cases, but he defended them. Khan said he would not be "blackmailed" with protests. Talking about the recent arrests of the bigwigs, Khan said, "I am grateful to Allah, the big figures who are now jailed, no one could have imagined [it could be done]." "People are crying that Sharif and Zardari have been jailed [...] both of them used to call each other corrupt. Mian Nawaz Sharif jailed Zardari twice during his two tenures. The prime minister said that they [Nawaz and Zardari] came to an agreement that each would rule for five years and "not say anything to each other".

Imran Khan vows to go after 'thieves' responsible for Pakistan's economic woes 

Pakistan Army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, on Wednesday said that the voluntary decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-announces-militarys-voluntary-cut-in-defence-expenditure-amid-financial-crisis-224402">cut the annual increase in defence spending</a> will not impact Pakistan's response to any potential threat.

The News International quoted Bajwa as saying, "This initiative is not a favour to the nation as we are one, through thick and thin."

"Irrespective of the voluntary cut in defence budget coming financial year (FY), there shall be no impact on our response potential to all types of threat and quality of life of the soldiers. The no pay raise decision is also only for the officers and not for the soldiers. We shall manage the shortfall during the FY by tightening our belt in areas where it doesn't affect the two aforesaid aspects," the chief of Pakistan's army staff (COAS) added.

The Pakistani Army, on Tuesday, in an unprecedented move for the betterment of the national economy, decided to not to receive an increased share under defence budget.

Prime Minister Imran Khan further lauded the decision of the Army which was made after viewing the critical financial situation of Pakistan's cash-strapped economy.

"I appreciate Pak Mil's unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in their defence expenditures for next FY because of our critical financial situation, despite multiple security challenges. My government will spend this money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan," he tweeted.

While talking to troops, Bajwa, who spent Eid with troops along Line of Control (LOC) and offered prayer with soldiers on the front line, further noted that the best Eid for a soldier is to have pride for being on duty of defending the motherland even on such festive days away from family.

The News International also reported that the armed forces have decided to forego some of its development programmes, besides cuts in other allowances.

Khan, who earlier in the day chaired a meeting to review the preparations for the national budget 2019-20, said the government would divert "the money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan.

Soon after the Prime Minister's words, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted,&nbsp;"Voluntary cut in defence budget for a year will not be at the cost of defence and security. We shall maintain effective response potential to all threats. Three services will manage impact of the cut through appropriate internal measures. It was imp to participate in dev of tribal areas and Balochistan."

Pakistan Army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, on Wednesday said that the voluntary decision to cut the annual increase in defence spending will not impact Pakistan's response to any potential threat.

Pakistan Army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, on Wednesday said that the voluntary decision to cut the annual increase in defence spending will not impact Pakistan's response to any potential threat. The News International quoted Bajwa as saying, "This initiative is not a favour to the nation as we are one, through thick and thin." "Irrespective of the voluntary cut in defence budget coming financial year (FY), there shall be no impact on our response potential to all types of threat and quality of life of the soldiers. The no pay raise decision is also only for the officers and not for the soldiers. We shall manage the shortfall during the FY by tightening our belt in areas where it doesn't affect the two aforesaid aspects," the chief of Pakistan's army staff (COAS) added. The Pakistani Army, on Tuesday, in an unprecedented move for the betterment of the national economy, decided to not to receive an increased share under defence budget. Prime Minister Imran Khan further lauded the decision of the Army which was made after viewing the critical financial situation of Pakistan's cash-strapped economy. "I appreciate Pak Mil's unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in their defence expenditures for next FY because of our critical financial situation, despite multiple security challenges. My government will spend this money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan," he tweeted. While talking to troops, Bajwa, who spent Eid with troops along Line of Control (LOC) and offered prayer with soldiers on the front line, further noted that the best Eid for a soldier is to have pride for being on duty of defending the motherland even on such festive days away from family. The News International also reported that the armed forces have decided to forego some of its development programmes, besides cuts in other allowances. Khan, who earlier in the day chaired a meeting to review the preparations for the national budget 2019-20, said the government would divert "the money saved on development of merged tribal areas and Balochistan. Soon after the Prime Minister's words, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted, "Voluntary cut in defence budget for a year will not be at the cost of defence and security. We shall maintain effective response potential to all threats. Three services will manage impact of the cut through appropriate internal measures. It was imp to participate in dev of tribal areas and Balochistan."

Cut in annual defence budget won't impact our response to any threat: Pakistan Army chief Bajwa

In a move likely to plunge the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/strains-in-us-pak-relations-what-does-it-mean-for-india-191158">already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan</a> to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

The move has come a year after the US barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval, reports Sputnik.

With the decision turning effective immediately, over 20 members in the Pakistan embassy on Friday surrendered their Tax Exemption cards to the US authorities.

Notably, Pakistan has yet to provide tax exemption facilities to the US diplomats working in Islamabad since they applied for the same last year.&nbsp;

Diplomatic Tax Exemption Cards provides an exemption from sales, occupancy, and other similar taxes for the eligible foreign officials working in the United States, or its territory.

On Thursday, the Pakistani Embassy in the US had said that the two countries were discussing the said matter and were hoping to resolve it soon.

"There are thus ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the US on the status of exemption/refunds on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, which should not be construed as withdrawal of any privileges," the Embassy said in a statement.

Bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan have been strained since January 2018 when President Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid given to Pakistan.

In a move likely to plunge the already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

In a move likely to plunge the already strained relations between the United States and Pakistan to a new low, Washington on Friday announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats. The move has come a year after the US barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval, reports Sputnik. With the decision turning effective immediately, over 20 members in the Pakistan embassy on Friday surrendered their Tax Exemption cards to the US authorities. Notably, Pakistan has yet to provide tax exemption facilities to the US diplomats working in Islamabad since they applied for the same last year. Diplomatic Tax Exemption Cards provides an exemption from sales, occupancy, and other similar taxes for the eligible foreign officials working in the United States, or its territory. On Thursday, the Pakistani Embassy in the US had said that the two countries were discussing the said matter and were hoping to resolve it soon. "There are thus ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the US on the status of exemption/refunds on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, which should not be construed as withdrawal of any privileges," the Embassy said in a statement. Bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan have been strained since January 2018 when President Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid given to Pakistan.

US withdraws tax exemption for Pakistan's diplomats

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday asserted that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism.&nbsp;

"No one ever blamed Hinduism for Tamil Tigers` bombings or Japanese religion when they blew up themselves on US ships. So why Islam is branded so?" Khan said during the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Makkah.

He, however, asserted that "the Muslim world has not been able to powerfully convince the world that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism," adding that the OIC should clarify its `propaganda` about Muslims.

The OIC is an international organisation founded in 1969.

One of its main aims is to preserve Islamic social and economic values and uphold international peace and security.

But some critics say it lacks real engagement and solutions for Muslim countries in crisis even as it made progress socially and academically.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday asserted that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism. "No one ever blamed Hinduism for Tamil Tigers` bombings or Japanese religion when they blew up themselves on US ships.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday asserted that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism. "No one ever blamed Hinduism for Tamil Tigers` bombings or Japanese religion when they blew up themselves on US ships. So why Islam is branded so?" Khan said during the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Makkah. He, however, asserted that "the Muslim world has not been able to powerfully convince the world that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism," adding that the OIC should clarify its `propaganda` about Muslims. The OIC is an international organisation founded in 1969. One of its main aims is to preserve Islamic social and economic values and uphold international peace and security. But some critics say it lacks real engagement and solutions for Muslim countries in crisis even as it made progress socially and academically.

Islam has nothing to do with terrorism: Imran Khan

Pakistan on Saturday indicated that it may lift the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-extends-airspace-closure-on-indian-border-to-june-14-222517">airspace ban along its eastern border with India</a>, imposed on February 27 after the Balakot airstrke, to reciprocate IAF's decision to remove all restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday announced on Twitter, "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-lifts-temporary-airspace-restrictions-imposed-after-balakot-strike-223290">Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace</a>, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 February 19, have been removed."&nbsp;

Reacting to India's decision, a senior official of the Pakistan government said, "Once the Indian government lifts the air restriction on Pakistani flights, Pakistan is likely to reciprocate it."&nbsp;

The official told PTI that India has yet to inform Pakistan about lifting of airspace ban for its flights.

"We only heard about this through the media as no communication in this respect has taken place as yet. We may follow the suit once India lifts air restrictions on our flights," he said.&nbsp;

The IAF said it had removed restrictions that were imposed on all routes a day after its 12 Mirage 2000s crossed over to Pakistan and attacked a JeM terrorist training camp in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Pakistan fully closed its airspace on February 27 after an IAF strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. On March 27, it opened its airspace for all flights except for New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. On May 15, Pakistan extended its airspace ban for flights to India till May 30.

As a result of the ban, foreign carriers using Indian airspace have been forced to take costly detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure mainly affects flights from Europe to Southeast Asia. The flights from Europe and the US flying in and out of New Delhi have been the worst hit.

Since Pakistan's airspace closure, the airfare on many routes have gone up significantly, including Delhi-Kabul, Delhi-Moscow, Delhi-Tehran and Delhi-Astana.

Thousands of travellers suffer flight cancellations, delays and soaring ticket prices due to Pakistan's decision to close its airspace for flights to and from India.&nbsp;

Two Indian airline companies, Air India and SpiceJet, have already stopped their Delhi-Kabul flights due to Pakistan airspace closure.

Pakistan had given special permission to India for then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21. However, the airspace for other commercial airliners remains closed.

Earlier, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal had said Islamabad want de-escalation.&nbsp;

"If de-escalation takes place we would not like to have a ban on our airspace for India for a single day but for the purpose, India will have to talk to us," he had said.

Pakistan on Saturday indicated that it may lift the airspace ban along its eastern border with India, imposed on February 27 after the Balakot airstrke, to reciprocate IAF's decision to remove all restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace.

Pakistan on Saturday indicated that it may lift the airspace ban along its eastern border with India, imposed on February 27 after the Balakot airstrke, to reciprocate IAF's decision to remove all restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace. The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday announced on Twitter, "Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 February 19, have been removed." Reacting to India's decision, a senior official of the Pakistan government said, "Once the Indian government lifts the air restriction on Pakistani flights, Pakistan is likely to reciprocate it." The official told PTI that India has yet to inform Pakistan about lifting of airspace ban for its flights. "We only heard about this through the media as no communication in this respect has taken place as yet. We may follow the suit once India lifts air restrictions on our flights," he said. The IAF said it had removed restrictions that were imposed on all routes a day after its 12 Mirage 2000s crossed over to Pakistan and attacked a JeM terrorist training camp in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Pakistan fully closed its airspace on February 27 after an IAF strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. On March 27, it opened its airspace for all flights except for New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. On May 15, Pakistan extended its airspace ban for flights to India till May 30. As a result of the ban, foreign carriers using Indian airspace have been forced to take costly detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure mainly affects flights from Europe to Southeast Asia. The flights from Europe and the US flying in and out of New Delhi have been the worst hit. Since Pakistan's airspace closure, the airfare on many routes have gone up significantly, including Delhi-Kabul, Delhi-Moscow, Delhi-Tehran and Delhi-Astana. Thousands of travellers suffer flight cancellations, delays and soaring ticket prices due to Pakistan's decision to close its airspace for flights to and from India. Two Indian airline companies, Air India and SpiceJet, have already stopped their Delhi-Kabul flights due to Pakistan airspace closure. Pakistan had given special permission to India for then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21. However, the airspace for other commercial airliners remains closed. Earlier, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal had said Islamabad want de-escalation. "If de-escalation takes place we would not like to have a ban on our airspace for India for a single day but for the purpose, India will have to talk to us," he had said.

Pakistan likely to lift curbs on air space usage

Mobs set ablaze shops belonging to the Hindus after a veterinary doctor from the minority community allegedly tore pages of a holy book and wrapped medicines in them in Pakistan's Sindh province, according to a media report.

The Hindu veterinary doctor, identified as Ramesh Kumar, was arrested on Monday under the country's strict blasphemy laws after a local cleric filed a police complaint accusing him of committing blasphemy.

Under Pakistan's blasphemy laws, anyone accused of insulting Islam can be sentenced to death.

The doctor was taken into custody while angry protestors set fire to shops owned by Hindus and burnt tyres on road in Phuladyon town in Mirpurkhas district in the province, The Express Tribune reported.

Protesters set ablaze a doctor's clinic, a medical store, and two shops belonging to the members of the Hindu community. They also blocked roads by burning tyres, the report said.

There were reports that the protesters also looted some shops.

With the situation spiralling out of control, local authorities called in the paramilitary Rangers to deal with the mob violence.

Police also registered a case against those engaged in rioting.

"It's an unfortunate incident. We have taken the doctor into custody and are investigating incident," Senior Superintendent of Police Mirpurkhas Javed Baloch said.

He said a case has been registered and police have established a picket in the town to deal with any untoward incident.

"The situation is now normal," he said, adding that the police would take action against those who have ransacked properties of the Hindu community. 
"We have detained some suspects on charges of damaging properties,"&nbsp;he added.

The Mirpurkhas deputy commissioner said the government would compensate those whose properties were damaged during the violence.

A large number of Hindus reside in the interior of Sindh province and in Karachi and the Pakistan Hindu Council has complained in the past of minority community members being targeted under the blasphemy law by people because of personal enmity.

Hindus form the biggest minority community in Muslim-majority Pakistan.

According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus are living in the country.

Mobs set ablaze shops belonging to the Hindus after a veterinary doctor from the minority community allegedly tore pages of a holy book and wrapped medicines in them in Pakistan's Sindh province, according to a media report.

Mobs set ablaze shops belonging to the Hindus after a veterinary doctor from the minority community allegedly tore pages of a holy book and wrapped medicines in them in Pakistan's Sindh province, according to a media report. The Hindu veterinary doctor, identified as Ramesh Kumar, was arrested on Monday under the country's strict blasphemy laws after a local cleric filed a police complaint accusing him of committing blasphemy. Under Pakistan's blasphemy laws, anyone accused of insulting Islam can be sentenced to death. The doctor was taken into custody while angry protestors set fire to shops owned by Hindus and burnt tyres on road in Phuladyon town in Mirpurkhas district in the province, The Express Tribune reported. Protesters set ablaze a doctor's clinic, a medical store, and two shops belonging to the members of the Hindu community. They also blocked roads by burning tyres, the report said. There were reports that the protesters also looted some shops. With the situation spiralling out of control, local authorities called in the paramilitary Rangers to deal with the mob violence. Police also registered a case against those engaged in rioting. "It's an unfortunate incident. We have taken the doctor into custody and are investigating incident," Senior Superintendent of Police Mirpurkhas Javed Baloch said. He said a case has been registered and police have established a picket in the town to deal with any untoward incident. "The situation is now normal," he said, adding that the police would take action against those who have ransacked properties of the Hindu community. "We have detained some suspects on charges of damaging properties," he added. The Mirpurkhas deputy commissioner said the government would compensate those whose properties were damaged during the violence. A large number of Hindus reside in the interior of Sindh province and in Karachi and the Pakistan Hindu Council has complained in the past of minority community members being targeted under the blasphemy law by people because of personal enmity. Hindus form the biggest minority community in Muslim-majority Pakistan. According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus are living in the country.

Violence in Pakistan after Hindu veterinary doctor accused of blasphemy

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday chaired a meeting of the high-powered National Security Committee and discussed the "geo-strategic environment" and the "recent developments" in the region, a day before the outcome of the general elections in India is known.

The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers, the three services chiefs, including Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, media reports said.

"The forum discussed geo-strategic environment with special reference to recent developments in the region," The Express Tribune quoted an official statement as saying.&nbsp;

The meeting reiterated that Pakistan will continue all its efforts towards regional peace and stability. It discussed and fully supported ongoing efforts towards a sustainable and lasting resolution of Pakistan's economic woes.

On the internal security, the committee reviewed the progress of the National Action Plan (NAP) against terrorism and extremism, sources told newspaper. The participants discussed recent measures to further tighten noose around the proscribed organisation, they added.

The current situation in Afghanistan particularly the ongoing effort seeking a political solution was also on the agenda. Other issues include the current state of Pakistan-India ties and rising tensions in the Persian Gulf region were also part of the discussions, the report said.

On Wednesday, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Islamabad has delivered a "message of peace" by opening the Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh pilgrims from India.

Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Foreign Ministers' meeting in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital, also attended by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Qureshi said, "enduring peace and prosperity in South Asia will remain elusive without good-faith diplomacy and result-oriented dialogue," he said in his address.

"Pakistan has given the message of peace by opening the Kartarpur Corridor for the Sikh community," Qureshi said.

The Pakistani foreign minister has said that Islamabad is ready to restart talks with the new government in India after the election outcome is known on May 23. India has told Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go hand-in-hand.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday chaired a meeting of the high-powered National Security Committee and discussed the "geo-strategic environment" and the "recent developments" in the region, a day before the outcome of the general elections in India is known.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday chaired a meeting of the high-powered National Security Committee and discussed the "geo-strategic environment" and the "recent developments" in the region, a day before the outcome of the general elections in India is known. The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers, the three services chiefs, including Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, media reports said. "The forum discussed geo-strategic environment with special reference to recent developments in the region," The Express Tribune quoted an official statement as saying. The meeting reiterated that Pakistan will continue all its efforts towards regional peace and stability. It discussed and fully supported ongoing efforts towards a sustainable and lasting resolution of Pakistan's economic woes. On the internal security, the committee reviewed the progress of the National Action Plan (NAP) against terrorism and extremism, sources told newspaper. The participants discussed recent measures to further tighten noose around the proscribed organisation, they added. The current situation in Afghanistan particularly the ongoing effort seeking a political solution was also on the agenda. Other issues include the current state of Pakistan-India ties and rising tensions in the Persian Gulf region were also part of the discussions, the report said. On Wednesday, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Islamabad has delivered a "message of peace" by opening the Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh pilgrims from India. Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Foreign Ministers' meeting in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital, also attended by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Qureshi said, "enduring peace and prosperity in South Asia will remain elusive without good-faith diplomacy and result-oriented dialogue," he said in his address. "Pakistan has given the message of peace by opening the Kartarpur Corridor for the Sikh community," Qureshi said. The Pakistani foreign minister has said that Islamabad is ready to restart talks with the new government in India after the election outcome is known on May 23. India has told Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go hand-in-hand.

Pakistan PM Khan chairs National Security Committee meeting

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan government is actively considering appointing a National Security Advisor to revive backchannel diplomacy with India to iron out issues hindering the resumption of peace talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Pak to appoint NSA for talks with India

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi cancelled his upcoming visit to Sri Lanka in the wake of the security situation in the island nation following the Easter Sunday suicide attacks which killed more than 250 people, a media report said Thursday.

Qureshi was due to visit&nbsp;Maldives on May 2 and in Colombo from May 3 till May 5, but the visit was cancelled in light of the security situation in Sri Lanka, the Express Tribune reported, citing diplomatic sources.

A revised schedule for the minister's visit would be released later.

Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday. The Islamic State group has claimed the attacks, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group National Tawheed Jamath (NTJ) for the attacks.

Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal said last week that Islamabad has offered "every possible" assistance to Sri Lanka in investigations into the terrorist attacks.

"Pakistan will provide every possible assistance that Sri Lanka requests. This offer of support has been extended by the president, prime minister and the foreign minister to their counterparts in Sri Lanka," he said.

There were reports that Sri Lanka had sought assistance of the Punjab Forensic Laboratory but Faisal clarified that Pakistan "had not received any formal request from the Sri Lankan authorities".

Last week, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Colombo may seek Islamabad's help to trace the terrorists behind the Easter attacks.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi cancelled his upcoming visit to Sri Lanka in the wake of the security situation in the island nation following the Easter Sunday suicide attacks which killed more than 250 people, a media report said Thursday.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi cancelled his upcoming visit to Sri Lanka in the wake of the security situation in the island nation following the Easter Sunday suicide attacks which killed more than 250 people, a media report said Thursday. Qureshi was due to visit Maldives on May 2 and in Colombo from May 3 till May 5, but the visit was cancelled in light of the security situation in Sri Lanka, the Express Tribune reported, citing diplomatic sources. A revised schedule for the minister's visit would be released later. Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday. The Islamic State group has claimed the attacks, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group National Tawheed Jamath (NTJ) for the attacks. Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal said last week that Islamabad has offered "every possible" assistance to Sri Lanka in investigations into the terrorist attacks. "Pakistan will provide every possible assistance that Sri Lanka requests. This offer of support has been extended by the president, prime minister and the foreign minister to their counterparts in Sri Lanka," he said. There were reports that Sri Lanka had sought assistance of the Punjab Forensic Laboratory but Faisal clarified that Pakistan "had not received any formal request from the Sri Lankan authorities". Last week, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Colombo may seek Islamabad's help to trace the terrorists behind the Easter attacks.

Pakistan foreign minister cancels Sri Lanka visit amid security concern

A Chinese man was found dead in a stormwater drain in Islamabad, said Pakistan police on Friday.

The man, who has been identified as Li Jinqiang, had arrived in Pakistan on April 13 and had gone out to buy medicine.

Since then he had been missing. The cause of his death is yet to be known.

The body has been sent for postmortem.

The attack on Chinese who are living in Pakistan has lately become frequent.

Last year, the Embassy of China in Islamabad had warned Chinese citizens and Chinese organisations in Pakistan to be on alert for possible terror attacks on them.

According to an estimate, there are nearly 400,000 Chinese people living in Pakistan, with a large number of professionals involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).&nbsp;

A Chinese man was found dead in a stormwater drain in Islamabad, said Pakistan police on Friday. The man, who has been identified as Li Jinqiang, had arrived in Pakistan on April 13 and had gone out to buy medicine.

A Chinese man was found dead in a stormwater drain in Islamabad, said Pakistan police on Friday. The man, who has been identified as Li Jinqiang, had arrived in Pakistan on April 13 and had gone out to buy medicine. Since then he had been missing. The cause of his death is yet to be known. The body has been sent for postmortem. The attack on Chinese who are living in Pakistan has lately become frequent. Last year, the Embassy of China in Islamabad had warned Chinese citizens and Chinese organisations in Pakistan to be on alert for possible terror attacks on them. According to an estimate, there are nearly 400,000 Chinese people living in Pakistan, with a large number of professionals involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Chinese national found dead in Pakistan

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday.

During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal, in a statement on Friday, said that the Foreign Minister`s visit will help further deepen our friendly ties and advance mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in diverse fields.

This comes months after Qureshi had cancelled his scheduled visit of Japan amid tensions with India after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed.

Japan condemned the attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group had claimed responsibility. Japan also urged Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday. During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday. During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan. Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal, in a statement on Friday, said that the Foreign Minister`s visit will help further deepen our friendly ties and advance mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in diverse fields. This comes months after Qureshi had cancelled his scheduled visit of Japan amid tensions with India after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed. Japan condemned the attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group had claimed responsibility. Japan also urged Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Japan

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that Pakistan had opted for a "measured response" to India's February 26 air strikes by bombing an empty area just across the Indian border.

During an informal chat with a group of foreign journalists, Khan said that he was awakened by a phone call at 3.30 a.m. on February 26 when a Pakistani military official informed him that Indian warplanes had just crossed the border and conducted strikes on Pakistani soil.

Pakistan opted for a "measured response" and bombed an empty area just across the Indian border, he said. "They hit our trees, so we thought we would hit their stones," The New York Times quoted Prime Minister Khan as saying.&nbsp;

He was talking to the journalists upon completion of his first eight months in office. As a "peace gesture", he had announced the release of Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in Pakistan Parliament on February 28.

The Wing Commander was held captive by Pakistani authorities on February 27 after his MiG 21 Bison went down during a beyond visual range combat with Pakistani jets.

Before his plane was hit, Varthaman shot down an F-16 of the Pakistan Air Force. He was released by Pakistan on March 1.

According to the newspaper, Prime Minister Khan seemed quite cognisant that the last thing Pakistan wanted was a war.

The Indian Air Force had hit a terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26 in retaliation to February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF soldiers lost their lives.

The responsibility for the Pulwama attack was claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

On the threat from Paris-based Financial Action Task Force to blacklist and sanction Pakistan, Prime Minister Khan said, "We can`t afford to be blacklisted."

The Task Force, a global agency, takes measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that Pakistan had opted for a "measured response" to India's February 26 air strikes by bombing an empty area just across the Indian border.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that Pakistan had opted for a "measured response" to India's February 26 air strikes by bombing an empty area just across the Indian border. During an informal chat with a group of foreign journalists, Khan said that he was awakened by a phone call at 3.30 a.m. on February 26 when a Pakistani military official informed him that Indian warplanes had just crossed the border and conducted strikes on Pakistani soil. Pakistan opted for a "measured response" and bombed an empty area just across the Indian border, he said. "They hit our trees, so we thought we would hit their stones," The New York Times quoted Prime Minister Khan as saying. He was talking to the journalists upon completion of his first eight months in office. As a "peace gesture", he had announced the release of Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in Pakistan Parliament on February 28. The Wing Commander was held captive by Pakistani authorities on February 27 after his MiG 21 Bison went down during a beyond visual range combat with Pakistani jets. Before his plane was hit, Varthaman shot down an F-16 of the Pakistan Air Force. He was released by Pakistan on March 1. According to the newspaper, Prime Minister Khan seemed quite cognisant that the last thing Pakistan wanted was a war. The Indian Air Force had hit a terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26 in retaliation to February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF soldiers lost their lives. The responsibility for the Pulwama attack was claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). On the threat from Paris-based Financial Action Task Force to blacklist and sanction Pakistan, Prime Minister Khan said, "We can`t afford to be blacklisted." The Task Force, a global agency, takes measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.

Pakistan opted for 'measured response' to India's February 26 air strikes: PM Imran Khan

Gravitas: Does Imran Khan back Chinese investments?

Reports: Indian radars detect 4 Pak F-16s close to border in Khemkaran of Punjab

Earlier denied, but now Pak admits on use of F-16 against India

High Commissioner to India, Appoints Sohail Mahmood as Pak's Foreign Secretary

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-not-approaching-imf-for-new-bailout-programme-considers-alternative-options-finance-minister-189892">Cash-strapped Pakistan</a> is likely to secure a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-imf-to-reach-agreement-soon-on-bailout-package-finance-minister-205590">bailout package</a> between $6 billion and $12 billion from the IMF by the middle of May after the two sides significantly bridged the "gap" on the terms of the deal, Finance Minister Asad Umar has said.

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan has been grappling with a severe balance of payments crisis. Islamabad has sought help from close allies like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy.

"We're approaching the landing zone," said Umar.&nbsp;

"The gap between our position and the IMF's is significantly less than what it was a few months back," he told the Financial Times.

His comments came after a meeting with IMF mission chief for Pakistan Ernesto Ramirez-Rigo this week.&nbsp;

Rigo visited Islamabad and Karachi for introductory meetings with Pakistani authorities. He assumed Pakistan mission chief responsibilities earlier this month. This was his first visit to the country, Geo News reported.

Umar said he hoped an agreement would be reached with the International Monetary Fund by "late April, first half of May". The package would be of between $6 billion and $12 billion, Dawn newspaper reported, quoting Umar as telling the British daily.

A sticking point in the negotiations between the two sides seems to be the exchange rate management of the rupee, which has lost 33 per cent of its value since 2017 when compared to that of the dollar.

"There is no conceptual difference between us and the IMF, the exchange rate needs to be reflective of the market,"&nbsp;said Umar.&nbsp;

"How you implement it and the sequence in which those steps have to be taken have been a part of the discussion and continue to be," he said.

According to analysts, the IMF has been suggesting measures such as a free-floating rupee, which would result in a further devaluation of the currency, and structural changes such as widening of the tax base.

In October, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said that any IMF loan, whether to Pakistan or other countries, requires "a complete understanding and absolute transparency about the nature, size and terms of the debt that is bearing on a particular country."

The US has made it clear that it would make all efforts to ensure that any IMF loan to Pakistan is not used to repay its Chinese debt.

"We are working and making clear within the IMF that if it were going to supply any funding to Pakistan that it would not be used to repay Chinese loans," David Malpass, Under Secretary of Treasury for International Affairs, told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing in December.

While China has pumped-in $4.1 billion, Pakistan has got US $3 billion from Saudi Arabia and $2 billion from the United Arab Emirates.

That is why some analysts have voiced concerns about whether it will be able to pay back loans it has taken and if it will be able to repay China for the USD 62 billion it is receiving as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor initiative.

But Umar dismissed the suggestion that the country's debt to China posed a problem. "I have a debt problem, a serious debt problem, but not a China debt problem."

A cornerstone of those reforms will be complying with conditions of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which has been scrutinising Pakistan's performance vis-a-vis combating money laundering and funding of terrorism.

"We believe that sufficient steps are being taken" in this regard, Umar said.

Experts say a green light from FATF would be essential to unlocking IMF money, the report said.&nbsp;

"I think it's naive to assume that there is no relationship between FATF and the next IMF programme,"&nbsp;said a former finance official.

"The IMF will probably demand some major changes in the banking structure, which are also the kinds of changes that are being sought by FATF," the official was quoted as saying by the report.

Cash-strapped Pakistan is likely to secure a bailout package between $6 billion and $12 billion from the IMF by the middle of May after the two sides significantly bridged the "gap" on the terms of the deal, Finance Minister Asad Umar has said.

Cash-strapped Pakistan is likely to secure a bailout package between $6 billion and $12 billion from the IMF by the middle of May after the two sides significantly bridged the "gap" on the terms of the deal, Finance Minister Asad Umar has said. The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan has been grappling with a severe balance of payments crisis. Islamabad has sought help from close allies like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy. "We're approaching the landing zone," said Umar. "The gap between our position and the IMF's is significantly less than what it was a few months back," he told the Financial Times. His comments came after a meeting with IMF mission chief for Pakistan Ernesto Ramirez-Rigo this week. Rigo visited Islamabad and Karachi for introductory meetings with Pakistani authorities. He assumed Pakistan mission chief responsibilities earlier this month. This was his first visit to the country, Geo News reported. Umar said he hoped an agreement would be reached with the International Monetary Fund by "late April, first half of May". The package would be of between $6 billion and $12 billion, Dawn newspaper reported, quoting Umar as telling the British daily. A sticking point in the negotiations between the two sides seems to be the exchange rate management of the rupee, which has lost 33 per cent of its value since 2017 when compared to that of the dollar. "There is no conceptual difference between us and the IMF, the exchange rate needs to be reflective of the market," said Umar. "How you implement it and the sequence in which those steps have to be taken have been a part of the discussion and continue to be," he said. According to analysts, the IMF has been suggesting measures such as a free-floating rupee, which would result in a further devaluation of the currency, and structural changes such as widening of the tax base. In October, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said that any IMF loan, whether to Pakistan or other countries, requires "a complete understanding and absolute transparency about the nature, size and terms of the debt that is bearing on a particular country." The US has made it clear that it would make all efforts to ensure that any IMF loan to Pakistan is not used to repay its Chinese debt. "We are working and making clear within the IMF that if it were going to supply any funding to Pakistan that it would not be used to repay Chinese loans," David Malpass, Under Secretary of Treasury for International Affairs, told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing in December. While China has pumped-in $4.1 billion, Pakistan has got US $3 billion from Saudi Arabia and $2 billion from the United Arab Emirates. That is why some analysts have voiced concerns about whether it will be able to pay back loans it has taken and if it will be able to repay China for the USD 62 billion it is receiving as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor initiative. But Umar dismissed the suggestion that the country's debt to China posed a problem. "I have a debt problem, a serious debt problem, but not a China debt problem." A cornerstone of those reforms will be complying with conditions of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which has been scrutinising Pakistan's performance vis-a-vis combating money laundering and funding of terrorism. "We believe that sufficient steps are being taken" in this regard, Umar said. Experts say a green light from FATF would be essential to unlocking IMF money, the report said. "I think it's naive to assume that there is no relationship between FATF and the next IMF programme," said a former finance official. "The IMF will probably demand some major changes in the banking structure, which are also the kinds of changes that are being sought by FATF," the official was quoted as saying by the report.

Pak likely to get between $8 billion to $12 billion bailout package by mid-May: Finance Minister

The Sindh police on Friday informed that the two men, who allegedly abducted and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-three-minor-hindu-girls-forced-to-convert-to-islam-in-pakistan-205617">forcibly converted two Hindu minor girls</a> on the eve of Holi, were already married and had children from their previous marriages.

Geo News quoted Tufail Bhutto, the station house officer (SHO) of the Daharki police station in Sindh province, as saying that the wives and children of both accused, Safdar Khobar and Barkat Malik, have left them after learning of their second marriages.

Khobar has three daughters and a son, while Malik is the father of three daughters, the police noted.

The incident came to light after the girls` fathers and brothers revealed the details in videos that went viral on social media. In a separate video, however, the girls claimed that they accepted Islam out of their own will.

The Islamabad High Court, on March 26, directed the state to take custody of the two girls and ensure their safety on a petition by the sisters claiming that the story of their forcible conversion from Hinduism to Islam was "fabricated."

The petition was filed by the girls and their alleged spouses to seek protection from adverse action.

After hearing the petition, Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Athar Minallah also ordered that a woman Superintendent of Police should be deputed with the two sisters to ensure their safety.

The court directed authorities that an investigation report about their case should be presented before it by April 2 when it will issue further directions.

On Monday, police had arrested at least seven people, including a `nikah khwan` (marriage officiator), allegedly involved in the case.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday asked Pakistan to return to the family two minor Hindu girls who were abducted, forcefully converted to Islam and married off on the eve of Holi in Sindh province.

The case of two Hindu girls from Sindh is one of many cases of forced conversion and marriage of underage Hindu girls to Muslim men, which are repeated in villages of districts of Mirpurkhas, Tharparkar and Umerkot in Sindh (close to Indian border) from time to time, many of which go unreported.

These three districts Mirpurkhas (33 pc Hindus), Tharparkar (36 pc Hindus) and Umerkot (49 pc Hindus) contribute to the significant Hindu community in Sindh.

On March 27, another Hindu girl was allegedly abducted from Badin city in Sindh, with her father claiming that she was kidnapped at gunpoint from the Jam Khan Pitafi village and feared that his girl may be subjected to forceful conversion to Islam.

In a First Information Report (FIR), the father of Mala, 14, said that his daughter was kidnapped on March 16 by Ghulam Haider Taheem, a resident of Umerkot`s Pithoro area, along with a few others from the same village.

Meanwhile, India had shared its concerns through an official note to the Pakistan Foreign Office over the incident. India sought suitable remedial action by the Pakistan government to protect and promote safety, security, and welfare of its own citizens, especially from the minority communities.

Pakistan human rights activists have claimed that this is another case of forced conversion and abduction, which are becoming increasingly common in the southern region of Sindh.&nbsp;

The Sindh police on Friday informed that the two men, who allegedly abducted and forcibly converted two Hindu minor girls on the eve of Holi, were already married and had children from their previous marriages.

The Sindh police on Friday informed that the two men, who allegedly abducted and forcibly converted two Hindu minor girls on the eve of Holi, were already married and had children from their previous marriages. Geo News quoted Tufail Bhutto, the station house officer (SHO) of the Daharki police station in Sindh province, as saying that the wives and children of both accused, Safdar Khobar and Barkat Malik, have left them after learning of their second marriages. Khobar has three daughters and a son, while Malik is the father of three daughters, the police noted. The incident came to light after the girls` fathers and brothers revealed the details in videos that went viral on social media. In a separate video, however, the girls claimed that they accepted Islam out of their own will. The Islamabad High Court, on March 26, directed the state to take custody of the two girls and ensure their safety on a petition by the sisters claiming that the story of their forcible conversion from Hinduism to Islam was "fabricated." The petition was filed by the girls and their alleged spouses to seek protection from adverse action. After hearing the petition, Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Athar Minallah also ordered that a woman Superintendent of Police should be deputed with the two sisters to ensure their safety. The court directed authorities that an investigation report about their case should be presented before it by April 2 when it will issue further directions. On Monday, police had arrested at least seven people, including a `nikah khwan` (marriage officiator), allegedly involved in the case. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday asked Pakistan to return to the family two minor Hindu girls who were abducted, forcefully converted to Islam and married off on the eve of Holi in Sindh province. The case of two Hindu girls from Sindh is one of many cases of forced conversion and marriage of underage Hindu girls to Muslim men, which are repeated in villages of districts of Mirpurkhas, Tharparkar and Umerkot in Sindh (close to Indian border) from time to time, many of which go unreported. These three districts Mirpurkhas (33 pc Hindus), Tharparkar (36 pc Hindus) and Umerkot (49 pc Hindus) contribute to the significant Hindu community in Sindh. On March 27, another Hindu girl was allegedly abducted from Badin city in Sindh, with her father claiming that she was kidnapped at gunpoint from the Jam Khan Pitafi village and feared that his girl may be subjected to forceful conversion to Islam. In a First Information Report (FIR), the father of Mala, 14, said that his daughter was kidnapped on March 16 by Ghulam Haider Taheem, a resident of Umerkot`s Pithoro area, along with a few others from the same village. Meanwhile, India had shared its concerns through an official note to the Pakistan Foreign Office over the incident. India sought suitable remedial action by the Pakistan government to protect and promote safety, security, and welfare of its own citizens, especially from the minority communities. Pakistan human rights activists have claimed that this is another case of forced conversion and abduction, which are becoming increasingly common in the southern region of Sindh.

Men who 'forcibly converted' minor Hindu sisters were already married: Sindh police

A special court hearing a treason case against Pakistan's former military ruler Pervez Musharraf on Thursday ordered him to appear before it on May 2 and asked him to reply to a questionnaire.

The previous Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government had filed the treason case against the ex-Army chief in 2013 over the imposition of extra-constitutional emergency in November 2007, which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

The trial has not seen much progress since Musharraf, 75, left for Dubai in March 2016 after his name was removed from the Exit Control List.&nbsp;

He has not returned since and is said to be suffering from Amyloidosis, a rare condition for which he has been admitted to a hospital.

The special court has declared him a proclaimed offender and ordered the confiscation of his property owing to his no-show.

The case has not progressed as Musharraf is required to record a statement under law for which his presence is necessary.

Musharraf's lawyer Salman Safdar informed the court that the former Pakistan president wished to appear before it on May 13, the Dawn reported.&nbsp;

Upon hearing this, the three-member bench, headed by Justice Tahira Safdar, directed Musharraf to appear in the court before Ramzan.

"If he can come to court on May 13, Musharraf can also appear before the court on May 2. If he doesn't, the court will pass an appropriate order regarding recording his statement," Justice Tahira was quoted as saying by the report.

The defence lawyer was also handed a questionnaire that Musharraf is expected to answer. The court, while hearing the case on March 19, had ordered to prepare the questionnaire for the former military ruler.

Musharraf's lawyer also submitted an application to the court seeking dismissal of the case and argued that it should be treated like any other case.&nbsp; 
"You cannot record a statement (under Section 342) in Musharraf's absence. If the suspect is to be punished, his presence in the court is necessary," he said.

A conviction for high treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

A special court hearing a treason case against Pakistan's former military ruler Pervez Musharraf on Thursday ordered him to appear before it on May 2 and asked him to reply to a questionnaire.

A special court hearing a treason case against Pakistan's former military ruler Pervez Musharraf on Thursday ordered him to appear before it on May 2 and asked him to reply to a questionnaire. The previous Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government had filed the treason case against the ex-Army chief in 2013 over the imposition of extra-constitutional emergency in November 2007, which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. The trial has not seen much progress since Musharraf, 75, left for Dubai in March 2016 after his name was removed from the Exit Control List. He has not returned since and is said to be suffering from Amyloidosis, a rare condition for which he has been admitted to a hospital. The special court has declared him a proclaimed offender and ordered the confiscation of his property owing to his no-show. The case has not progressed as Musharraf is required to record a statement under law for which his presence is necessary. Musharraf's lawyer Salman Safdar informed the court that the former Pakistan president wished to appear before it on May 13, the Dawn reported. Upon hearing this, the three-member bench, headed by Justice Tahira Safdar, directed Musharraf to appear in the court before Ramzan. "If he can come to court on May 13, Musharraf can also appear before the court on May 2. If he doesn't, the court will pass an appropriate order regarding recording his statement," Justice Tahira was quoted as saying by the report. The defence lawyer was also handed a questionnaire that Musharraf is expected to answer. The court, while hearing the case on March 19, had ordered to prepare the questionnaire for the former military ruler. Musharraf's lawyer also submitted an application to the court seeking dismissal of the case and argued that it should be treated like any other case. "You cannot record a statement (under Section 342) in Musharraf's absence. If the suspect is to be punished, his presence in the court is necessary," he said. A conviction for high treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Pakistan court orders Musharraf to appear before on May 2 in treason case

Pakistan denied acting against Pulwama terror attack, demands more proof

Pak PM Imran Khan will review the proposal to open Sharada Peeth

Members representing minorities at a provincial legislature in northwest Pakistan Tuesday walked out of the assembly session to protest against anti-Hindu remarks by a lawmaker in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, that has led to the escalation of tensions with India.

Remarks by Sher Azam Wazir, the member of the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, against India and Hindus in Pakistan irritated lawmaker Ravi Kumar.

Kumar said though India is hostile towards Pakistan but not the Hindu community of Pakistan.

Wazir later apologised over his remarks and clarified that he meant to say that India is enemy of Pakistan not the Hindu community of Pakistan.

Speaker Mushtaq Ghani expunged remarks of Sher Azam Wazir from the assembly proceedings.&nbsp;

There are three minority members in the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Tensions escalated between India and Pakistan following the February 14 Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead.&nbsp;

Members representing minorities at a provincial legislature in northwest Pakistan Tuesday walked out of the assembly session to protest against anti-Hindu remarks by a lawmaker in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, that has led to the escalation of tensions with India.

Members representing minorities at a provincial legislature in northwest Pakistan Tuesday walked out of the assembly session to protest against anti-Hindu remarks by a lawmaker in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, that has led to the escalation of tensions with India. Remarks by Sher Azam Wazir, the member of the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, against India and Hindus in Pakistan irritated lawmaker Ravi Kumar. Kumar said though India is hostile towards Pakistan but not the Hindu community of Pakistan. Wazir later apologised over his remarks and clarified that he meant to say that India is enemy of Pakistan not the Hindu community of Pakistan. Speaker Mushtaq Ghani expunged remarks of Sher Azam Wazir from the assembly proceedings. There are three minority members in the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Tensions escalated between India and Pakistan following the February 14 Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead.

Pakistan: Minority members stage walkout after anti-Hindu remarks by Pak lawmaker

Pakistan's military is taking a key role in the development of one of the world`s biggest untapped copper and gold deposits, which is currently stalled by a multi-billion dollar legal wrangle with foreign mining firms, multiple sources familiar with the situation said.

The Reko Diq mine has become a test case for Prime Minister Imran Khan's ability to attract serious foreign investment to Pakistan as it struggles to stave off an economic crisis that has forced it to seek an International Monetary Fund bailout.

Ten current and former provincial and federal government officials and mining sources familiar with the project in the Baluchistan region say the military has become the most important voice on the future of Reko Diq, which it sees as a strategic national asset.

The military will not only be in a position to decide which investors develop the deposit, but an army-controlled engineering firm, Frontier Works Organization (FWO), is positioning itself to be a member of any consortium involved, these people said.

"This has been taken over by GHQ," said a senior Baluchistan government official, referring to the Pakistan army`s General Headquarters in the garrison city of Rawalpindi.

In a statement in response to Reuters` questions about its role in Reko Diq, the military spokesman`s office said: "(The military) may only participate in government`s plan of development of Reko Diq, as per national requirements."

But it acknowledged that FWO, best known for building roads through Pakistan`s rugged and lawless border regions, has developed "substantial" mining capability in recent years and would be interested in taking a role in the project.

"If an opportunity arises of participating in developing Reko Diq, FWO may work at par with other competitors (or) companies provided the project is financially viable (or) suitable," the statement said. When asked, a spokesman declined to elaborate on the statement.

Pakistan`s Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said civilian authorities in the insurgency-hit southwestern province of Baluchistan were in charge of Reko Diq and, along with Khan, would take a decision, but added that the military "and all other stakeholders are obviously important players".

FWO referred questions to the military spokesman`s office. Khan`s spokesman Iftikhar Durrani said Baluchistan province was in charge of Reko Diq, and referred questions to the provincial government and the military spokesman`s office.

The manoeuvring behind the project shows how the military, which has historically dictated Pakistan`s security and foreign policy, is leveraging its sway over the civilian government at federal and provincial level to carve a growing role in the nation`s business affairs.

The army has ruled the nuclear-armed nation for nearly half its history and is considered to have a major influence over Khan`s recently elected government. A military spokesman declined to comment.

"The military has taken a front seat," said Ayesha Siddiqa, author of the book "Military Inc.", which analyses the army`s business interests and influence in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"They`ve understood that the economy is important for having a strong military," she said. "Control of the economy also gives the military a handle over expanding their business interests."

TALKS

Buried at the foot of an extinct volcano near the frontier with Iran and Afghanistan, the mine`s development has long been delayed by a dispute with previous investors in the project, Canada`s Barrick Gold and Chile`s Antofagasta.

The government is urgently trying to settle the dispute as a World Bank arbitration tribunal, which ruled against Pakistan in 2017, is in the next few months expected to announce how much in damages the country must pay to the foreign firms, who are claiming more than $11 billion.

The dispute relates to the withholding of a mining lease.

Islamabad is also trying to find new partners to invest in the project.

But any new investors will need the blessing of Pakistan`s military, according to government officials and mining sources.&nbsp;

State-run companies from resource-hungry China have long coveted Reko Diq and more recently Saudi Arabia has shown interest, according to Pakistani officials.

&nbsp;Some Western diplomats say the Reko Diq dispute has been a significant foreign investment deterrent, with international businesses unnerved at how Pakistan dealt with the companies that had pledged to invest $3.3 billion to develop the country`s then-biggest mining project.

Barrick Gold and Antofagasta, whose joint venture Tethyan Copper Company (TCC) discovered vast mineral wealth in Reko Diq, say they had invested more than $220 million by the time the Baluchistan government, in 2011, unexpectedly refused to grant them the critical mining lease needed to keep operating.

Pakistan argued its move was legitimate because TCC`s feasibility study was incomplete and the country`s Supreme Court voided the deal in 2013. But in 2017 the World Bank`s International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) ruled against Pakistan.

TCC did not respond to requests for comment and Antofagasta and Barrick Gold both declined to comment. Reuters could not determine whether either company would be willing to return to the project.

FOREIGN INVESTORS

The last serious attempt at settling the Reko Diq case was scuppered in 2016 by the military, which vetoed paying hundreds of millions of dollars to TCC, according to a senior Baluchistan official and two former senior officials in Islamabad.

But the military has since changed its stance and is more open to a settlement with TCC, according to a lawmaker close to the military and a source close to Prime Minister Khan. The military was also involved in appointing Pakistan`s current legal team.

In response to a Reuters question about blocking the previous settlement effort, the military said: "Let`s see how the case progresses." It did not elaborate or comment on whether it was playing any role in the latest negotiations.

Some mining experts say a likely solution would be for a new investment consortium to pay the settlement fee on behalf of cash-strapped Pakistan in exchange for future royalty fees or mining rights.&nbsp;

Information Minister Chaudhry said Pakistan was engaged in negotiations with "both" the current investors about a settlement and also potential new investors, with interest coming from the Middle East and Europe. He declined to name the potential investors.

Pakistani Finance Minister Asad Umar said in October that Saudi Arabia has inquired about investing in Reko Diq and another government official confirmed talks were ongoing.

Saudi Arabia did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on Reko Diq. During Crown Prince bin Salman`s visit to Pakistan last month, the kingdom pledged to invest $2 billion in mineral development projects, though the provisional agreements were vague and did not mention any specific projects.

China`s state-owned miner China Metallurgical Group Corporation (MCC), which operates the Saindak copper and gold mine close to Reko Diq, has been eyeing the bigger deposit for more than a decade, according to mining and MCC officials.

A few years ago Chinese state giant Norinco also made an approach, according to two sources familiar with Norinco`s offer.

MCC and Norinco did not respond to requests for comment.

When a mining company approached former general Abdul Quadir Baloch about Reko Diq around 2016, when he was federal minister for the frontier regions, he took their proposal not only to then-premier Nawaz Sharif, but also to the army chief.

"The military has to give a (security) guarantee to any company coming in to explore or exploit this project, so they are a stakeholder," said Baloch.

The military declined to comment on Baloch`s assertions. Sharif, who has since been jailed on corruption charges, could not be reached for comment.

The army-run FWO does not have the funds or the expertise to develop the Reko Diq project, which boasts 5.9 billion tons of ore. But it could be part of a consortium alongside global miners who have the know-how to mine such a gargantuan deposit.

The military`s role in developing natural resources in Baluchistan also carries risks, however, analysts say.

Indigenous Baloch people view outsiders with suspicion, and their anger about Islamabad exploiting the province`s vast natural resources has been one of the key themes fuelling a separatist insurgency that began around 2004.

Pakistan's military is taking a key role in the development of one of the world`s biggest untapped copper and gold deposits, which is currently stalled by a multi-billion dollar legal wrangle with foreign mining firms, multiple sources familiar with the situation said.

Pakistan's military is taking a key role in the development of one of the world`s biggest untapped copper and gold deposits, which is currently stalled by a multi-billion dollar legal wrangle with foreign mining firms, multiple sources familiar with the situation said. The Reko Diq mine has become a test case for Prime Minister Imran Khan's ability to attract serious foreign investment to Pakistan as it struggles to stave off an economic crisis that has forced it to seek an International Monetary Fund bailout. Ten current and former provincial and federal government officials and mining sources familiar with the project in the Baluchistan region say the military has become the most important voice on the future of Reko Diq, which it sees as a strategic national asset. The military will not only be in a position to decide which investors develop the deposit, but an army-controlled engineering firm, Frontier Works Organization (FWO), is positioning itself to be a member of any consortium involved, these people said. "This has been taken over by GHQ," said a senior Baluchistan government official, referring to the Pakistan army`s General Headquarters in the garrison city of Rawalpindi. In a statement in response to Reuters` questions about its role in Reko Diq, the military spokesman`s office said: "(The military) may only participate in government`s plan of development of Reko Diq, as per national requirements." But it acknowledged that FWO, best known for building roads through Pakistan`s rugged and lawless border regions, has developed "substantial" mining capability in recent years and would be interested in taking a role in the project. "If an opportunity arises of participating in developing Reko Diq, FWO may work at par with other competitors (or) companies provided the project is financially viable (or) suitable," the statement said. When asked, a spokesman declined to elaborate on the statement. Pakistan`s Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said civilian authorities in the insurgency-hit southwestern province of Baluchistan were in charge of Reko Diq and, along with Khan, would take a decision, but added that the military "and all other stakeholders are obviously important players". FWO referred questions to the military spokesman`s office. Khan`s spokesman Iftikhar Durrani said Baluchistan province was in charge of Reko Diq, and referred questions to the provincial government and the military spokesman`s office. The manoeuvring behind the project shows how the military, which has historically dictated Pakistan`s security and foreign policy, is leveraging its sway over the civilian government at federal and provincial level to carve a growing role in the nation`s business affairs. The army has ruled the nuclear-armed nation for nearly half its history and is considered to have a major influence over Khan`s recently elected government. A military spokesman declined to comment. "The military has taken a front seat," said Ayesha Siddiqa, author of the book "Military Inc.", which analyses the army`s business interests and influence in Pakistan. "They`ve understood that the economy is important for having a strong military," she said. "Control of the economy also gives the military a handle over expanding their business interests." TALKS Buried at the foot of an extinct volcano near the frontier with Iran and Afghanistan, the mine`s development has long been delayed by a dispute with previous investors in the project, Canada`s Barrick Gold and Chile`s Antofagasta. The government is urgently trying to settle the dispute as a World Bank arbitration tribunal, which ruled against Pakistan in 2017, is in the next few months expected to announce how much in damages the country must pay to the foreign firms, who are claiming more than $11 billion. The dispute relates to the withholding of a mining lease. Islamabad is also trying to find new partners to invest in the project. But any new investors will need the blessing of Pakistan`s military, according to government officials and mining sources. State-run companies from resource-hungry China have long coveted Reko Diq and more recently Saudi Arabia has shown interest, according to Pakistani officials. Some Western diplomats say the Reko Diq dispute has been a significant foreign investment deterrent, with international businesses unnerved at how Pakistan dealt with the companies that had pledged to invest $3.3 billion to develop the country`s then-biggest mining project. Barrick Gold and Antofagasta, whose joint venture Tethyan Copper Company (TCC) discovered vast mineral wealth in Reko Diq, say they had invested more than $220 million by the time the Baluchistan government, in 2011, unexpectedly refused to grant them the critical mining lease needed to keep operating. Pakistan argued its move was legitimate because TCC`s feasibility study was incomplete and the country`s Supreme Court voided the deal in 2013. But in 2017 the World Bank`s International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) ruled against Pakistan. TCC did not respond to requests for comment and Antofagasta and Barrick Gold both declined to comment. Reuters could not determine whether either company would be willing to return to the project. FOREIGN INVESTORS The last serious attempt at settling the Reko Diq case was scuppered in 2016 by the military, which vetoed paying hundreds of millions of dollars to TCC, according to a senior Baluchistan official and two former senior officials in Islamabad. But the military has since changed its stance and is more open to a settlement with TCC, according to a lawmaker close to the military and a source close to Prime Minister Khan. The military was also involved in appointing Pakistan`s current legal team. In response to a Reuters question about blocking the previous settlement effort, the military said: "Let`s see how the case progresses." It did not elaborate or comment on whether it was playing any role in the latest negotiations. Some mining experts say a likely solution would be for a new investment consortium to pay the settlement fee on behalf of cash-strapped Pakistan in exchange for future royalty fees or mining rights. Information Minister Chaudhry said Pakistan was engaged in negotiations with "both" the current investors about a settlement and also potential new investors, with interest coming from the Middle East and Europe. He declined to name the potential investors. Pakistani Finance Minister Asad Umar said in October that Saudi Arabia has inquired about investing in Reko Diq and another government official confirmed talks were ongoing. Saudi Arabia did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on Reko Diq. During Crown Prince bin Salman`s visit to Pakistan last month, the kingdom pledged to invest $2 billion in mineral development projects, though the provisional agreements were vague and did not mention any specific projects. China`s state-owned miner China Metallurgical Group Corporation (MCC), which operates the Saindak copper and gold mine close to Reko Diq, has been eyeing the bigger deposit for more than a decade, according to mining and MCC officials. A few years ago Chinese state giant Norinco also made an approach, according to two sources familiar with Norinco`s offer. MCC and Norinco did not respond to requests for comment. When a mining company approached former general Abdul Quadir Baloch about Reko Diq around 2016, when he was federal minister for the frontier regions, he took their proposal not only to then-premier Nawaz Sharif, but also to the army chief. "The military has to give a (security) guarantee to any company coming in to explore or exploit this project, so they are a stakeholder," said Baloch. The military declined to comment on Baloch`s assertions. Sharif, who has since been jailed on corruption charges, could not be reached for comment. The army-run FWO does not have the funds or the expertise to develop the Reko Diq project, which boasts 5.9 billion tons of ore. But it could be part of a consortium alongside global miners who have the know-how to mine such a gargantuan deposit. The military`s role in developing natural resources in Baluchistan also carries risks, however, analysts say. Indigenous Baloch people view outsiders with suspicion, and their anger about Islamabad exploiting the province`s vast natural resources has been one of the key themes fuelling a separatist insurgency that began around 2004.

Pakistan military eyes key role developing giant copper and gold mine: Sources

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-f-16-pilots-fired-4-5-amraams-at-indian-planes-from-40-50-km-sources-201455">Pakistan </a>Rangers.&nbsp;

The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain&nbsp;peace and&nbsp;tranquillity" along the International Border.&nbsp; 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-did-not-shoot-down-one-of-our-sukhois-india-201398">Pakistan</a> had earlier released the Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as a "peace gesture".

The Indian Air Force&nbsp;had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. (The air strike had come 12 days after the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which had killed 40 personnel. The attack had been claimed by the JeM.)&nbsp;

Pakistan hit back a day later, dropping bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control.&nbsp;

Pakistan said it did not cross the LoC. India said the Pakistani bombs had been aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

India had scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes.&nbsp;

One of those Indian planes — a MiG 21 Bison — had been flown by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wc-abhinandan-piloted-mig-21-bison-shot-down-pak-f-16-have-electronic-evidence-mea-202214">Abhinandan </a>who took down a Pakistani F-16 but was then shot down too.&nbsp;

He spent two nights in Pakistani custody before being released.&nbsp;&nbsp;

His release had very quickly de-escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain peace and tranquillity" along the International Border.

The Border Security Force has handover over a Pakistani national, who had crossed over the international border on Friday, to the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF said the Pakistani national was handed over as a "goodwill gesture" and to "maintain peace and tranquillity" along the International Border. Pakistan had earlier released the Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as a "peace gesture". The Indian Air Force had on February 26 conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. (The air strike had come 12 days after the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama which had killed 40 personnel. The attack had been claimed by the JeM.) Pakistan hit back a day later, dropping bombs on the Indian side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it did not cross the LoC. India said the Pakistani bombs had been aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets. India had scrambled jets to chase out the Pakistani planes. One of those Indian planes — a MiG 21 Bison — had been flown by Abhinandan who took down a Pakistani F-16 but was then shot down too. He spent two nights in Pakistani custody before being released. His release had very quickly de-escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

India hands over Pakistani national as 'goodwill gesture'

Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India, a leading US daily has said, warning that the threat of nuclear war between the two nations remains as a long-term solution to the conflict is unlikely without international pressure.&nbsp;

The New York Times in an Op-ed titled 'This Is Where a Nuclear Exchange Is Most Likely. (It's Not North Korea.)' said the current focus on North Korea's growing arsenal obscures the fact that the most likely trigger for a nuclear exchange could be the conflict between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

The paper said the relative calm after last week's confrontation between the two nations is not a solution.&nbsp;

"As long as India and Pakistan refuse to deal with their core dispute the future of Kashmir they face unpredictable, possibly terrifying, consequences," it said.&nbsp;

The current crisis started on February 14, when a suicide bomber killed at least 40 CRPF personnel in Pulwama. Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Muhammed took responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

While the JeM is on America's list of terrorist organisations and is formally banned in Pakistan, the group has been protected and armed by the Pakistani intelligence service, the paper said.

India launched a counter-terror operation in Balakot on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1.

The situation could have easily escalated, given that the two countries have fought three wars over 70 years, maintain a near-constant state of military readiness along their border and have little formal government-to-government dialogue.&nbsp;

The next confrontation might not end so calmly, the paper said.

The two countries have crossed into dangerous territory, with India attacking Pakistan and engaging in aerial duels. The next confrontation, or the one after that, could be far more unthinkable, it said.

Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India.&nbsp;

Pakistani authorities said they detained 121 members of various armed groups, including a brother of Masood Azhar, the head of Jaish-e-Muhammrd, and planned to seize assets of militants on the United Nations terrorist list.&nbsp;

But Pakistan has rarely followed through on such promises, the paper said.

Without international pressure, a long-term solution is unlikely, and the threat of nuclear war remains.

China is a major ally and lender to Pakistan, and if it stopped blocking moves in the United Nations Security Council to add Azhar to the United Nations terrorist list, it would signal to Pakistan that it has to curb the militant groups, the daily said.

Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India, a leading US daily has said, warning that the threat of nuclear war between the two nations remains as a long-term solution to the conflict is unlikely without international pressure.

Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India, a leading US daily has said, warning that the threat of nuclear war between the two nations remains as a long-term solution to the conflict is unlikely without international pressure. The New York Times in an Op-ed titled 'This Is Where a Nuclear Exchange Is Most Likely. (It's Not North Korea.)' said the current focus on North Korea's growing arsenal obscures the fact that the most likely trigger for a nuclear exchange could be the conflict between India and Pakistan. The paper said the relative calm after last week's confrontation between the two nations is not a solution. "As long as India and Pakistan refuse to deal with their core dispute the future of Kashmir they face unpredictable, possibly terrifying, consequences," it said. The current crisis started on February 14, when a suicide bomber killed at least 40 CRPF personnel in Pulwama. Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Muhammed took responsibility for the attack. While the JeM is on America's list of terrorist organisations and is formally banned in Pakistan, the group has been protected and armed by the Pakistani intelligence service, the paper said. India launched a counter-terror operation in Balakot on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured its pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. The situation could have easily escalated, given that the two countries have fought three wars over 70 years, maintain a near-constant state of military readiness along their border and have little formal government-to-government dialogue. The next confrontation might not end so calmly, the paper said. The two countries have crossed into dangerous territory, with India attacking Pakistan and engaging in aerial duels. The next confrontation, or the one after that, could be far more unthinkable, it said. Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India. Pakistani authorities said they detained 121 members of various armed groups, including a brother of Masood Azhar, the head of Jaish-e-Muhammrd, and planned to seize assets of militants on the United Nations terrorist list. But Pakistan has rarely followed through on such promises, the paper said. Without international pressure, a long-term solution is unlikely, and the threat of nuclear war remains. China is a major ally and lender to Pakistan, and if it stopped blocking moves in the United Nations Security Council to add Azhar to the United Nations terrorist list, it would signal to Pakistan that it has to curb the militant groups, the daily said.

Pakistan never seriously cracked down militant groups that attack India: US daily

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