Pakistan's top election body on Tuesday refused to take action on the allegations of vote buying in the recent Senate elections just on the basis of video clips unless those involved in offering and getting bribes were named.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said this on a plea challenging the election of Opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement's (PDM) candidate and former premier Yusuf Raza Gilani to the Senate. The top electoral body was expected to hear the petition on March 11 but it took up the case after a request by the government.

A four-member commission of ECP headed by Altaf Ibrahim Qureshi heard the petition. The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of Prime Minister Imran Khan was represented in the hearing by counsel Ali Zafar.

The PTI has challenged the victory of former premier Gilani as Senator on the basis of alleged fraud, urging the ECP not to issue notification of his success. 
Gilani became a Senator after defeating PTI candidate Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh on March 3, a big blow to Prime Minister Khan who had personally campaigned for his Cabinet colleague.

The government's allegations are based on a video of Gilani's son Ali Haider, who is shown talking with some PTI members and telling them how a vote can be "spoiled".

The PTI, in its petition, said that since seven votes were "spoiled" in the Senate elections and its candidate lost by just five votes, it showed that the PTI lawmakers in the video were bribed.

Refusing to take action on allegations of vote buying in the polls just on the basis of video clips, the ECP urged the government's lawyer to make all persons involved in the video scandal a party to the case and said that if the charges of giving and receiving bribes are proven, then action should be taken against all the culprits.

Government's counsel Zafar was reluctant to name those who allegedly received bribes but after initial refusal he agreed to do so after consultation with the government. The ECP asked him to file a fresh petition.

In another development, the Islamabad High Court was set to hear on Wednesday a petition by PTI member Ali Nawaz in which he challenged the election of Gilani to the Senate.

Chief Justice Athar Minallah will hear the petition seeking to declare his victory unconstitutional and illegal as he had won through rigging and bribery.

The new challenge to Gilani came in the wake of his nomination as the Opposition's joint candidate for the Senate chairman election scheduled on March 12.

PDM, an alliance of 11 parties, also nominated Maulana Ghafoor Haidri of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) for the post of deputy chairman of Senate.

In an effort to sway votes in a tight competition, the government offered to support Haidri if his party supported Sadiq Sanjrani, who is supported by the government for the Senate chairman. However, Haidri rejected the offer.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Khan, addressing the Cabinet meeting, said that technology such as electronic voting machines (EVM) would be used in future to avoid voting fraud.

"We can't have the kind of elections which have happened in the past? We need to use EVM technology for transparent elections and I want regular updates on it," he said.

After Shaikh's defeat, Prime Minister Khan had last week lashed out at the election commission, accusing it of discrediting democracy, damaging the morality of the nation and failing to stop corruption in the closely-contested Senate elections.

Pakistan's top election body on Tuesday refused to take action on the allegations of vote buying in the recent Senate elections just on the basis of video clips unless those involved in offering and getting bribes were named.

Pakistan's top election body on Tuesday refused to take action on the allegations of vote buying in the recent Senate elections just on the basis of video clips unless those involved in offering and getting bribes were named. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said this on a plea challenging the election of Opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement's (PDM) candidate and former premier Yusuf Raza Gilani to the Senate. The top electoral body was expected to hear the petition on March 11 but it took up the case after a request by the government. A four-member commission of ECP headed by Altaf Ibrahim Qureshi heard the petition. The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of Prime Minister Imran Khan was represented in the hearing by counsel Ali Zafar. The PTI has challenged the victory of former premier Gilani as Senator on the basis of alleged fraud, urging the ECP not to issue notification of his success. Gilani became a Senator after defeating PTI candidate Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh on March 3, a big blow to Prime Minister Khan who had personally campaigned for his Cabinet colleague. The government's allegations are based on a video of Gilani's son Ali Haider, who is shown talking with some PTI members and telling them how a vote can be "spoiled". The PTI, in its petition, said that since seven votes were "spoiled" in the Senate elections and its candidate lost by just five votes, it showed that the PTI lawmakers in the video were bribed. Refusing to take action on allegations of vote buying in the polls just on the basis of video clips, the ECP urged the government's lawyer to make all persons involved in the video scandal a party to the case and said that if the charges of giving and receiving bribes are proven, then action should be taken against all the culprits. Government's counsel Zafar was reluctant to name those who allegedly received bribes but after initial refusal he agreed to do so after consultation with the government. The ECP asked him to file a fresh petition. In another development, the Islamabad High Court was set to hear on Wednesday a petition by PTI member Ali Nawaz in which he challenged the election of Gilani to the Senate. Chief Justice Athar Minallah will hear the petition seeking to declare his victory unconstitutional and illegal as he had won through rigging and bribery. The new challenge to Gilani came in the wake of his nomination as the Opposition's joint candidate for the Senate chairman election scheduled on March 12. PDM, an alliance of 11 parties, also nominated Maulana Ghafoor Haidri of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) for the post of deputy chairman of Senate. In an effort to sway votes in a tight competition, the government offered to support Haidri if his party supported Sadiq Sanjrani, who is supported by the government for the Senate chairman. However, Haidri rejected the offer. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Khan, addressing the Cabinet meeting, said that technology such as electronic voting machines (EVM) would be used in future to avoid voting fraud. "We can't have the kind of elections which have happened in the past? We need to use EVM technology for transparent elections and I want regular updates on it," he said. After Shaikh's defeat, Prime Minister Khan had last week lashed out at the election commission, accusing it of discrediting democracy, damaging the morality of the nation and failing to stop corruption in the closely-contested Senate elections.

Pak election commission refuses to take action on vote buying allegations in Senate polls

After failing to win a majority in the senate, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the government senators are being approached to gain their support for the opposition candidate in the upcoming election for the senate chair.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan: Government senators being approached to change loyalties

As Imran Khan PTI took a trust vote, his 'goons' tossed shoes at opposition leaders and attacked a former Prime Minister. Here's what WION's Palki says. 'Forget a vote of confidence, Pakistan needs a vote of conscience'.

Gravitas: Why Pakistan needs a 'Vote of Conscience'

An NGO in Karachi is helping women living in poverty to earn living by making bricks for heritage projects. The women were previously beggars and have no other source of income. WION tells you more.

Pak NGO hires women to build bricks to heritage projects

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will face a test on Saturday as he seeks vote of confidence from the parliament. The vote of confidence will be held in Pakistan's National Assembly. On Thursday, Khan declared his intention to seek vote of confidence in parliament after Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost his bid for Senate seat. Imran Khan government had been expected to win the indirect election given the numerical superiority but members of his ruling coalition are widely believed to have voted against Sheikh.

The Senate is the upper house of Pakistan's bicameral parliament.

Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), became the largest party in the Senate in Wednesday's poll. But although it gained ground, interim results on Thursday showed his ruling coalition was still a few seats short of a clear majority.

Imran is not the first Pakistani Prime Minister to face a vote of confidence in the National Assembly. In fact, under the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, all prime ministers of Pakistan, from 1985 to 2008, received a vote of confidence from the National Assembly.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-election-commission-convenes-meet-to-discuss-pm-imran-khans-allegations-against-it-368284">Pak election commission convenes meet to discuss PM Imran Khan's allegations against it</a>

These included the late Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, Mir Zafarullah Jamali, Chaudhry Shujaat, Shaukat Aziz, and Yousuf Raza Gilani, reported Geo News. But Imran Khan is also the second in the history of Pakistan who has sought for a `voluntary` vote of confidence. Prior to it, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had sought a voluntary vote of confidence from the National Assembly after his reinstatement was granted by the Supreme Court in 1993.

(With agency inputs)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will face a test on Saturday as he seeks vote of confidence from the parliament. The vote of confidence will be held in Pakistan's National Assembly.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will face a test on Saturday as he seeks vote of confidence from the parliament. The vote of confidence will be held in Pakistan's National Assembly. On Thursday, Khan declared his intention to seek vote of confidence in parliament after Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost his bid for Senate seat. Imran Khan government had been expected to win the indirect election given the numerical superiority but members of his ruling coalition are widely believed to have voted against Sheikh. The Senate is the upper house of Pakistan's bicameral parliament. Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), became the largest party in the Senate in Wednesday's poll. But although it gained ground, interim results on Thursday showed his ruling coalition was still a few seats short of a clear majority. Imran is not the first Pakistani Prime Minister to face a vote of confidence in the National Assembly. In fact, under the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, all prime ministers of Pakistan, from 1985 to 2008, received a vote of confidence from the National Assembly. Also Read | Pak election commission convenes meet to discuss PM Imran Khan's allegations against it These included the late Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, Mir Zafarullah Jamali, Chaudhry Shujaat, Shaukat Aziz, and Yousuf Raza Gilani, reported Geo News. But Imran Khan is also the second in the history of Pakistan who has sought for a `voluntary` vote of confidence. Prior to it, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had sought a voluntary vote of confidence from the National Assembly after his reinstatement was granted by the Supreme Court in 1993. (With agency inputs)

Imran Khan to seek vote of confidence in Pakistan parliament today

In a very recent development that seemed to be significant, Turkey and Pakistan, already close allies, have decided for a robust military cooperation through a formal defence agreement. This was disclosed by Bloomberg. It is also revealed now that these countries are soon entering into manufacture of missiles and fighter jets and in this regard. Officials from Pakistan and Turkey have been holding meetings for the last several months. Pakistan Defence Secretary Mia Mohammad Hilal Hussain met the Turkish Defence Minister, Hulusi Akar in December 2020 to give final shape to the upcoming deal. More specifically, the deal would entail long-range Siper missiles and TF-X fighter jets.

Defence experts reckon that with this emerging defence cooperation, Istanbul will be part of the JF-17 Thunder Fighter Jets that currently Pakistan develops with China. As it is, Turkey and Pakistan look up to each other as reliable strategic allies, and this is very likely to take their relationship to newer heights. Turkish President has most recently described that such a dependable strategic relationship has serious potential between the two countries. However, the US is believed to have taken note of this development and as it has already imposed sanctions on Turkey for the latter’s decision two years ago to buy Russian S-400 missiles system which is an eyesore to the US.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-us-foreign-policy-and-its-middle-east-conundrum-367054">Opinion: US foreign policy and its Middle East conundrum</a>

It may be recollected&nbsp;that Turkey had snapped its deal with China to procure missiles and subsequently reaching out to Russia for getting this military hardware.

As this news is getting under circulation, analysts have started pondering over this. Pakistan has been cosying up to Turkey and the latter too has been reciprocating in good measure. Erdogan’s more than one visit to Pakistan each year in the recent past has not gone unnoticed. Every time he comes or Prime Minister Imran Khan goes to Istanbul, fresh commitments are signed.

Exceeding his niceties as head of a sovereign country, Erdogan has been repeating his offers of militarily intervening in Kashmir to express his solidarity with Pakistan. Pakistan derives extraordinarily hollowed satisfaction by such assurances which are bereft of any substance or logic especially when India and Pakistan are believed to have revived a cease-fire deal of 2003 to end the hostilities. Erdogan has been playing a divisive role to abet animus which is unfortunately not a sign of a good leader.

Another implication of the Turkey Pakistan military cooperation would mean an arms race in the region. The US is likely to have a dim view of the issue particularly when President Biden is closely watching Turkey and Pakistan. Pakistan sadly doesn’t comprehend that Turkey is not the best choice as its ally.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-turkey-signals-sweeping-regional-ambitions-365427">Opinion: Turkey signals sweeping regional ambitions</a>

Erdogan has a clear agenda of propelling himself as a Muslim leader of global level and he also wants to slight Saudi Arabia in this regard. Since Riyadh is not favourably inclined towards Pakistan anymore and the relations are more than sour, Imran Khan is placing all his eggs into Erdogan’s basket.&nbsp;

This suits Erdogan who is always trying to run down Saudi led Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and by default befriends Pakistan. Also, by warming upto Pakistan through a defence cooperation for manufacturing lethal weaponry, Turkey and Pakistan are encouraging security perils in the region which have far-reaching devastating consequences. Assuming and rightly so that such production of deadly military hardware will deter India - the South Asia giant, they are erroneously mistaken. Every country with self-esteem is bound to defend its borders and sovereignty with all its might even militarily. She let there be no illusions on such utopian dreams, and that’s what the experts also say.

Pakistan and Turkey are also enjoying fantasy films like Ertugrul, based on a tribal character who is thought to have existed during the Ottoman Empire. Films on him are watched widely and are full of violence and bloodshed. That shows the priorities of the leaders of the two countries who are perhaps living under false notions of chivalry. It is also known now that Pakistan and Turkish passport holders can have dual nationalities which is understandable but displays a more vibrant equation between the two countries.

The roles of Turkey and Pakistan have been under close scrutiny for their support to Azerbaijan during its military conflict with Armenia last year. By the upcoming military cooperation of joint manufacturing enterprise, it would mean that in any other future skirmishes or full-scale war, both Pakistan and Turkey will not be inhibited to militarily intervene and take sides according to one’s own whims and fancies. World at large is hoping that it does not happen and all eyes are trained in the new US administration.

Meanwhile, knowledgeable Pakistan watchers say that religious intolerance is high in Pakistan. The Pakistan Taliban has been reunified. Terrorists have successfully targeted a number of civilians in addition to several casualties amongst the military and paramilitary personnel. Nobel Laureate and activist, Malala Yousafzai, who had providentially survived an assassination attempt in the past, had received death threat again in the recent past. Afsandyar Mir, a security analyst and Fellow at the Centre for Internal Security and Cooperation opines that reunification of a splintered militancy remains dangerous news for Pakistan.

Hence, it would appear in the larger interest of peace in the region, joint arms manufacture or anti tranquil defence enterprises will prove counterproductive adding more security uncertainties to the people of South Asia.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

In a very recent development that seemed to be significant, Turkey and Pakistan, already close allies, have decided for a robust military cooperation through a formal defence agreement.

In a very recent development that seemed to be significant, Turkey and Pakistan, already close allies, have decided for a robust military cooperation through a formal defence agreement. This was disclosed by Bloomberg. It is also revealed now that these countries are soon entering into manufacture of missiles and fighter jets and in this regard. Officials from Pakistan and Turkey have been holding meetings for the last several months. Pakistan Defence Secretary Mia Mohammad Hilal Hussain met the Turkish Defence Minister, Hulusi Akar in December 2020 to give final shape to the upcoming deal. More specifically, the deal would entail long-range Siper missiles and TF-X fighter jets. Defence experts reckon that with this emerging defence cooperation, Istanbul will be part of the JF-17 Thunder Fighter Jets that currently Pakistan develops with China. As it is, Turkey and Pakistan look up to each other as reliable strategic allies, and this is very likely to take their relationship to newer heights. Turkish President has most recently described that such a dependable strategic relationship has serious potential between the two countries. However, the US is believed to have taken note of this development and as it has already imposed sanctions on Turkey for the latter’s decision two years ago to buy Russian S-400 missiles system which is an eyesore to the US. Also Read | Opinion: US foreign policy and its Middle East conundrum It may be recollected that Turkey had snapped its deal with China to procure missiles and subsequently reaching out to Russia for getting this military hardware. As this news is getting under circulation, analysts have started pondering over this. Pakistan has been cosying up to Turkey and the latter too has been reciprocating in good measure. Erdogan’s more than one visit to Pakistan each year in the recent past has not gone unnoticed. Every time he comes or Prime Minister Imran Khan goes to Istanbul, fresh commitments are signed. Exceeding his niceties as head of a sovereign country, Erdogan has been repeating his offers of militarily intervening in Kashmir to express his solidarity with Pakistan. Pakistan derives extraordinarily hollowed satisfaction by such assurances which are bereft of any substance or logic especially when India and Pakistan are believed to have revived a cease-fire deal of 2003 to end the hostilities. Erdogan has been playing a divisive role to abet animus which is unfortunately not a sign of a good leader. Another implication of the Turkey Pakistan military cooperation would mean an arms race in the region. The US is likely to have a dim view of the issue particularly when President Biden is closely watching Turkey and Pakistan. Pakistan sadly doesn’t comprehend that Turkey is not the best choice as its ally. Also Read | Opinion: Turkey signals sweeping regional ambitions Erdogan has a clear agenda of propelling himself as a Muslim leader of global level and he also wants to slight Saudi Arabia in this regard. Since Riyadh is not favourably inclined towards Pakistan anymore and the relations are more than sour, Imran Khan is placing all his eggs into Erdogan’s basket. This suits Erdogan who is always trying to run down Saudi led Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and by default befriends Pakistan. Also, by warming upto Pakistan through a defence cooperation for manufacturing lethal weaponry, Turkey and Pakistan are encouraging security perils in the region which have far-reaching devastating consequences. Assuming and rightly so that such production of deadly military hardware will deter India - the South Asia giant, they are erroneously mistaken. Every country with self-esteem is bound to defend its borders and sovereignty with all its might even militarily. She let there be no illusions on such utopian dreams, and that’s what the experts also say. Pakistan and Turkey are also enjoying fantasy films like Ertugrul, based on a tribal character who is thought to have existed during the Ottoman Empire. Films on him are watched widely and are full of violence and bloodshed. That shows the priorities of the leaders of the two countries who are perhaps living under false notions of chivalry. It is also known now that Pakistan and Turkish passport holders can have dual nationalities which is understandable but displays a more vibrant equation between the two countries. The roles of Turkey and Pakistan have been under close scrutiny for their support to Azerbaijan during its military conflict with Armenia last year. By the upcoming military cooperation of joint manufacturing enterprise, it would mean that in any other future skirmishes or full-scale war, both Pakistan and Turkey will not be inhibited to militarily intervene and take sides according to one’s own whims and fancies. World at large is hoping that it does not happen and all eyes are trained in the new US administration. Meanwhile, knowledgeable Pakistan watchers say that religious intolerance is high in Pakistan. The Pakistan Taliban has been reunified. Terrorists have successfully targeted a number of civilians in addition to several casualties amongst the military and paramilitary personnel. Nobel Laureate and activist, Malala Yousafzai, who had providentially survived an assassination attempt in the past, had received death threat again in the recent past. Afsandyar Mir, a security analyst and Fellow at the Centre for Internal Security and Cooperation opines that reunification of a splintered militancy remains dangerous news for Pakistan. Hence, it would appear in the larger interest of peace in the region, joint arms manufacture or anti tranquil defence enterprises will prove counterproductive adding more security uncertainties to the people of South Asia. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Is Turkey wooing Pakistan through defence cooperation? 

Pakistan PM Imran Khan has won confidence vote in Pakistan parliament. He secured 178 votes.&nbsp;The special session of Pakistan's National Assembly was a show of strength for Imran Khan who on Thursday had said that he would seek vote of confidence for his government.&nbsp;Khan declared his intention to seek vote of confidence in parliament after Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost his bid for Senate seat.&nbsp;

It's worth noting that when he was elected as PM in the year 2018, he had secured 176 votes in the assembly, two less than what he got on Saturday. In order to win the confidence vote, Imran Khan needed 172 votes in 342-member house.

The floor test took place without the Opposition as, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the alliance of opposition parties boycotted the confidence vote.

Scuffle outside parliament

Scuffle broke out outside the parliament as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers clashed with those of opposition parties. This took place as confidence vote proceedings went on inside the parliament.

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Shameful. Shoe thrown at PMLN leader Ahsan Iqbal, as opposition leaders are heckled by goons. <a href="https://t.co/l3yPwbRQLh">pic.twitter.com/l3yPwbRQLh</a>
— Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) <a href="https://twitter.com/nailainayat/status/1368110937723592707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even former Pakistan PM Shahid Khaqaan Abbasi was heckled.

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This is the tabdeeli that was promised in Naya Pakistan. Supporters of PM Imran Khan attack former prime minister Shahid Khaqqan Abbasi. <a href="https://t.co/iDs0hk4K0m">pic.twitter.com/iDs0hk4K0m</a>
— Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) <a href="https://twitter.com/nailainayat/status/1368106861128544256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both sides held&nbsp; each other responsible for starting scuffles

The ruling coalition had 181 members but after the resignation of one of its lawmakers, Faisal Vowda, its strength was reduced to 180. The Opposition coalition has 160 members in the House. One seat was vacant.

The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had 157 members in the NA but following the resignation of Vowda, it now has 156 members in the National Assembly.

(With agency inputs)

Pakistan PM Imran Khan has won confidence vote in Pakistan parliament. He secured 178 votes. The special session of Pakistan's National Assembly was a show of strength for Imran Khan who on Thursday had said that he would seek vote of confidence for his government.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan has won confidence vote in Pakistan parliament. He secured 178 votes. The special session of Pakistan's National Assembly was a show of strength for Imran Khan who on Thursday had said that he would seek vote of confidence for his government. Khan declared his intention to seek vote of confidence in parliament after Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost his bid for Senate seat. It's worth noting that when he was elected as PM in the year 2018, he had secured 176 votes in the assembly, two less than what he got on Saturday. In order to win the confidence vote, Imran Khan needed 172 votes in 342-member house. The floor test took place without the Opposition as, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the alliance of opposition parties boycotted the confidence vote. Scuffle outside parliament Scuffle broke out outside the parliament as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers clashed with those of opposition parties. This took place as confidence vote proceedings went on inside the parliament. Shameful. Shoe thrown at PMLN leader Ahsan Iqbal, as opposition leaders are heckled by goons. pic.twitter.com/l3yPwbRQLh — Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) March 6, 2021 × Even former Pakistan PM Shahid Khaqaan Abbasi was heckled. This is the tabdeeli that was promised in Naya Pakistan. Supporters of PM Imran Khan attack former prime minister Shahid Khaqqan Abbasi. pic.twitter.com/iDs0hk4K0m — Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) March 6, 2021 × Both sides held each other responsible for starting scuffles The ruling coalition had 181 members but after the resignation of one of its lawmakers, Faisal Vowda, its strength was reduced to 180. The Opposition coalition has 160 members in the House. One seat was vacant. The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had 157 members in the NA but following the resignation of Vowda, it now has 156 members in the National Assembly. (With agency inputs)

Pakistan PM Imran Khan wins confidence vote in parliament

Imran Khan is on a sticky wicket. After getting clean bowled on the Islamabad seat in Pakistan's senate, he is trying to spin the narrative by holding a vote of confidence. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a match-report on Pak PM's game plan.

Gravitas: Pak PM gets 'clean bowled' in Islamabad

Pakistan's election commission has convened a crucial meeting on Friday after Prime Minister Imran Khan accused it of discrediting democracy and damaging the morality of the nation, according to media reports.

Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a televised address to the country on Thursday, lashed out at the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) which he said failed to stop corruption in Wednesday's closely-contested Senate elections.

"You (ECP) discredited democracy you damaged the morality of the nation by doing nothing to stop vote-buying," he alleged.

"You allowed corruption to occur at the top, and this happened right before you, and you knew it would happen. I kept saying that markets have opened and there is an auction going on. And when the Supreme Court gave you a chance, what reason was there to not bar code a mere 1,500 ballots" Khan said.

Khan's criticism of the ECP came after Opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) candidate and former prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani defeated ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidate Abdul Hafeez Shaikh on Wednesday, in a major blow to the Prime Minister who personally campaigned for his Cabinet colleague.

According to a report in the Geo TV, ECP convened the meeting to review the statements of Prime Minister Khan, who had levelled serious allegations on its role during the Senate polls. All members of the ECP will attend the meeting.

Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja summoned the meeting after the ECP members asked him for the same to discuss the highly objectionable comments made by Prime Minister Khan, the Dawn newspaper reported.

"The government should amend the Constitution, if it wants open voting for Senate elections, but should not expect from the Comm?ission to do the job of legislature," a senior official of the ECP was quoted as saying in the report.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday ruled that the Senate elections would be held through a secret ballot, amid a raging controversy among the government and Opposition parties about allowing an open vote to avoid corruption.

According to the official, the ECP is bound to follow the law which provides for a secret ballot and any hasty attempt to make the votes traceable would have been a violation of the Constitution, the report said.

The official said that the prime minister instead of taking note of the uncalled for remarks made by members of his Cabinet chose to join the blame game, it said.

Under mounting pressure from the Opposition to resign, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that he will seek a vote of confidence on Saturday, in a bid to restore the legitimacy of his government after an embarrassing defeat of the finance minister in the hotly-contested Senate elections.

He also accused the grand Opposition alliance for "making a mockery of democracy" and said that he will never let the corrupt politicians off the hook.

Pakistan's election commission has convened a crucial meeting on Friday after Prime Minister Imran Khan accused it of discrediting democracy and damaging the morality of the nation, according to media reports.

Pakistan's election commission has convened a crucial meeting on Friday after Prime Minister Imran Khan accused it of discrediting democracy and damaging the morality of the nation, according to media reports. Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a televised address to the country on Thursday, lashed out at the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) which he said failed to stop corruption in Wednesday's closely-contested Senate elections. "You (ECP) discredited democracy you damaged the morality of the nation by doing nothing to stop vote-buying," he alleged. "You allowed corruption to occur at the top, and this happened right before you, and you knew it would happen. I kept saying that markets have opened and there is an auction going on. And when the Supreme Court gave you a chance, what reason was there to not bar code a mere 1,500 ballots" Khan said. Khan's criticism of the ECP came after Opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) candidate and former prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani defeated ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidate Abdul Hafeez Shaikh on Wednesday, in a major blow to the Prime Minister who personally campaigned for his Cabinet colleague. According to a report in the Geo TV, ECP convened the meeting to review the statements of Prime Minister Khan, who had levelled serious allegations on its role during the Senate polls. All members of the ECP will attend the meeting. Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja summoned the meeting after the ECP members asked him for the same to discuss the highly objectionable comments made by Prime Minister Khan, the Dawn newspaper reported. "The government should amend the Constitution, if it wants open voting for Senate elections, but should not expect from the Comm?ission to do the job of legislature," a senior official of the ECP was quoted as saying in the report. Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday ruled that the Senate elections would be held through a secret ballot, amid a raging controversy among the government and Opposition parties about allowing an open vote to avoid corruption. According to the official, the ECP is bound to follow the law which provides for a secret ballot and any hasty attempt to make the votes traceable would have been a violation of the Constitution, the report said. The official said that the prime minister instead of taking note of the uncalled for remarks made by members of his Cabinet chose to join the blame game, it said. Under mounting pressure from the Opposition to resign, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that he will seek a vote of confidence on Saturday, in a bid to restore the legitimacy of his government after an embarrassing defeat of the finance minister in the hotly-contested Senate elections. He also accused the grand Opposition alliance for "making a mockery of democracy" and said that he will never let the corrupt politicians off the hook.

Pak election commission convenes meet to discuss PM Imran Khan's allegations against it

Pakistan is not planning to buy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">vaccines </a>anytime soon as it aims to tackle the COVID-19 challenge through herd immunity and donated vaccines from friendly countries like China, authorities have said.

So far, four <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a>: Sinophram (China), Oxford-AstraZeneca (UK), Sputnik-V (Russia) and Cansino Bio (China) have been registered in the country.

National Health Service (NHS) Secretary Amir Ashraf Khawaja while briefing the Public Accounts Committee on Thursday said that the Pakistan government has no plan to buy vaccines anytime soon and aims to tackle the COVID-19 health challenge through herd immunity and donated vaccines, Dawn newspaper reported.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Herd immunity occurs when a large number of people, usually 70 to 90 per cent, become immune to a contagious disease after being infected to it.

According to the National Institute of Health Executive Director Maj Gen Aamir Aamer Ikram, the cost of a single dose of Chinese vaccine Cansino is USD 13. He said Pakistan was relying on international donors and friendly countries like China.

The NHS secretary informed the PAC that Chinese pharmaceutical company Sinopharm had committed to providing one million doses of COVID-19 vaccine, saying that 0.5 million doses had been handed over to Pakistan, out of which around 275,000 doses had been administered to health professionals dealing with COVID-19 patients.

He said the second phase would cover the health officials working in other hospitals and health facilities, adding that the people aged 65 years and above could also register themselves for vaccination.

He said Pakistan has planned to vaccinate 70 million people this year.

According to the NHS secretary, Pakistan will also get 16 million free doses of India-made Oxford-AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine through Gavi that would give cover to 20 per cent of the population of Pakistan.

The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (Gavi) is a public-private global health partnership with the goal of increasing access to immunisation in poor countries.

In response to a question by PAC Chairman Rana Tanveer Hussain, the NHS secretary said Pakistan would get the first batch of AstraZeneca vaccine made by Serum Institute of India by the middle of March and the rest was expected to arrive in the country by June.

According to him, vaccination to the aged people was due to start by March 5; however, the consignment was delayed.

He said that another Chinese company had conducted the phase-three trial of Cansino vaccine in Pakistan, adding that total 18,000 people were inoculated and the vaccine's efficacy stood at 85 per cent.

According to the NHS secretary, the ministry had conducted a survey in June 2020 to ascertain the figures of those who have developed antibodies against coronavirus. He said the survey disclosed that around 15 per cent of the population has developed antibodies and that they did not need to be immunised.

The PAC chairman pointed out that some people had some reservations over side effects of the vaccine and suggested that the top leadership of the country should get inoculated first to remove doubts in the general public's mind.

In response to a question by Hina Rabbani Khar, the NHS secretary said that despite the government's offer to the private sector to buy the vaccine, no serious buyers had so far come forward.

According to him, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has so far received applications only from three companies for the import of vaccines, but their applications have been rejected because they did not give any detail and specification of the vaccines they intended to import.

Meanwhile, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country has gone up by around 30 per cent since the announcement of relaxation in restrictions, the report said.

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), a representative body of health professionals, has urged the government to immediately impose the restrictions to avoid chances of a third wave of the virus.

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) data showed that there were 1,176 cases on February 27 and 1,163 on March 1, but the number suddenly surged to 1,388 on March 2 and reached 1,519 on Thursday.

Pakistan reported 52 COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours as the number of positive cases surged to 587,014. The nationwide tally of fatalities jumped to 13,128 on Friday.

According to the latest figures by the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC), 1,579 persons tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 24 hours.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan is not planning to buy vaccines anytime soon as it aims to tackle the COVID-19 challenge through herd immunity and donated vaccines from friendly countries like China, authorities have said.

Pakistan is not planning to buy vaccines anytime soon as it aims to tackle the COVID-19 challenge through herd immunity and donated vaccines from friendly countries like China, authorities have said. So far, four vaccines: Sinophram (China), Oxford-AstraZeneca (UK), Sputnik-V (Russia) and Cansino Bio (China) have been registered in the country. National Health Service (NHS) Secretary Amir Ashraf Khawaja while briefing the Public Accounts Committee on Thursday said that the Pakistan government has no plan to buy vaccines anytime soon and aims to tackle the COVID-19 health challenge through herd immunity and donated vaccines, Dawn newspaper reported. Watch | Herd immunity occurs when a large number of people, usually 70 to 90 per cent, become immune to a contagious disease after being infected to it. According to the National Institute of Health Executive Director Maj Gen Aamir Aamer Ikram, the cost of a single dose of Chinese vaccine Cansino is USD 13. He said Pakistan was relying on international donors and friendly countries like China. The NHS secretary informed the PAC that Chinese pharmaceutical company Sinopharm had committed to providing one million doses of COVID-19 vaccine, saying that 0.5 million doses had been handed over to Pakistan, out of which around 275,000 doses had been administered to health professionals dealing with COVID-19 patients. He said the second phase would cover the health officials working in other hospitals and health facilities, adding that the people aged 65 years and above could also register themselves for vaccination. He said Pakistan has planned to vaccinate 70 million people this year. According to the NHS secretary, Pakistan will also get 16 million free doses of India-made Oxford-AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine through Gavi that would give cover to 20 per cent of the population of Pakistan. The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (Gavi) is a public-private global health partnership with the goal of increasing access to immunisation in poor countries. In response to a question by PAC Chairman Rana Tanveer Hussain, the NHS secretary said Pakistan would get the first batch of AstraZeneca vaccine made by Serum Institute of India by the middle of March and the rest was expected to arrive in the country by June. According to him, vaccination to the aged people was due to start by March 5; however, the consignment was delayed. He said that another Chinese company had conducted the phase-three trial of Cansino vaccine in Pakistan, adding that total 18,000 people were inoculated and the vaccine's efficacy stood at 85 per cent. According to the NHS secretary, the ministry had conducted a survey in June 2020 to ascertain the figures of those who have developed antibodies against coronavirus. He said the survey disclosed that around 15 per cent of the population has developed antibodies and that they did not need to be immunised. The PAC chairman pointed out that some people had some reservations over side effects of the vaccine and suggested that the top leadership of the country should get inoculated first to remove doubts in the general public's mind. In response to a question by Hina Rabbani Khar, the NHS secretary said that despite the government's offer to the private sector to buy the vaccine, no serious buyers had so far come forward. According to him, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has so far received applications only from three companies for the import of vaccines, but their applications have been rejected because they did not give any detail and specification of the vaccines they intended to import. Meanwhile, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country has gone up by around 30 per cent since the announcement of relaxation in restrictions, the report said. The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), a representative body of health professionals, has urged the government to immediately impose the restrictions to avoid chances of a third wave of the virus. The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) data showed that there were 1,176 cases on February 27 and 1,163 on March 1, but the number suddenly surged to 1,388 on March 2 and reached 1,519 on Thursday. Pakistan reported 52 COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours as the number of positive cases surged to 587,014. The nationwide tally of fatalities jumped to 13,128 on Friday. According to the latest figures by the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC), 1,579 persons tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 24 hours.

Pak govt not planning to buy COVID-19 vaccines; to rely on herd immunity & donated jabs: Officials 

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty". &nbsp;He said that authorisation for defence sales of US 20 billion has already been made.

"As of this year, the united states has authorized over USD 20 billion in defence sales to India. It's these offers of advanced us defence platforms that demonstrate our commitment to India's security and sovereignty," state department spokesperson ned price told reporters at his daily news conference.

"It demonstrates our commitment to that global, comprehensive, strategic partnership," he said.

The US also spoke about 5G network being a priority but also expressed concern about the dangers of installing networks with equipment that can be manipulated or even controlled by China.

The State Department expressed satisfaction at the return of economic and political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We welcome steps to return the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to full economic and political normalcy consistent with India`s democratic values," said US State Department spokesperson Ned Price.

"We continue to follow developments in Jammu and Kashmir closely," he added. He said that the United States policy towards Jammu and Kashmir has not changed," he said.

(With ANI inputs)

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty".

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday that major defence sales by US to India demonstrated USA's "commitment to India's security and sovereignty". He said that authorisation for defence sales of US 20 billion has already been made. "As of this year, the united states has authorized over USD 20 billion in defence sales to India. It's these offers of advanced us defence platforms that demonstrate our commitment to India's security and sovereignty," state department spokesperson ned price told reporters at his daily news conference. "It demonstrates our commitment to that global, comprehensive, strategic partnership," he said. The US also spoke about 5G network being a priority but also expressed concern about the dangers of installing networks with equipment that can be manipulated or even controlled by China. The State Department expressed satisfaction at the return of economic and political normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "We welcome steps to return the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to full economic and political normalcy consistent with India`s democratic values," said US State Department spokesperson Ned Price. "We continue to follow developments in Jammu and Kashmir closely," he added. He said that the United States policy towards Jammu and Kashmir has not changed," he said. (With ANI inputs)

US talks of its 'commitment to India's security and sovereignty'

After a stinging rebuke from the court and international outrage, the Islamabad zoo is being replaced by a National park. Does this mark the beginning of a better life for the animals inside? Mariam Wardak tells you more.

South Asia Diary: Pakistan revamps notorious Islamabad zoo

Pakistan's Sindh Assembly descended into chaos on Tuesday after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers attacked three others for 'switching sides' before the Senate elections. The 2021 Pakistani Senate election will be held on March 3.

Pakistan's Sindh Assembly turns into a wrestling ring

Pakistan's Sindh Assembly descended into chaos on Tuesday after lawmakers from the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) attacked three others for allegedly ''switching sides'' to the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) ahead of Senate elections on Wednesday.

The members of provincial assembly (MPAs) Karim Bux Gabol, Shaharyar Khan Shar, and Muhammad Aslam Abro had announced they would not be voting for PTI candidates in the Senate elections, claiming&nbsp;they were neglected while tickets were awarded for the polls.

Watch the full video here:

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Upon arrival at the assembly on Tuesday, the lawmakers were welcomed by members of PPP. Soon, PTI lawmakers attacked the "rebel" members, which led to a scuffle.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/at-unhrc-india-highlights-pakistan-providing-pensions-to-terrorists-367415" hreflang="en">At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan providing 'pensions' to terrorists</a>

Gabol was at the centre of the scuffle, daily Dawn said in a report. He was &nbsp;surrounded by other PTI lawmakers who called out PPP for "oppression". Earlier, in a video message on Monday, Gabol announced that he would not vote for candidates from the PTI in the Senate elections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pakistan-pm-yet-again-puts-onus-of-restoring-ceasefire-along-loc-on-india-366653" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM yet again puts onus of restoring ceasefire along LoC on India</a>

Once the violence subsided, Gabol was escorted out of the assembly, after which he was driven away, the newspaper reported. The others who had switched sides - Shar and Abro, continued to extend support to the PPP and left the assembly with government members.

The session was adjourned until Wednesday, when Senate elections are to take place.

After the dust settled, Abro told local media that he, along with other dissidents intends to vote "according to [their] conscience'' in the polls, adding that he still does not intend to support PTI candidates.

Pakistan's Sindh Assembly descended into chaos on Tuesday after lawmakers from the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) attacked three others for allegedly ''switching sides'' to the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) ahead of Senate elections on Wednesday.

Pakistan's Sindh Assembly descended into chaos on Tuesday after lawmakers from the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) attacked three others for allegedly ''switching sides'' to the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) ahead of Senate elections on Wednesday. The members of provincial assembly (MPAs) Karim Bux Gabol, Shaharyar Khan Shar, and Muhammad Aslam Abro had announced they would not be voting for PTI candidates in the Senate elections, claiming they were neglected while tickets were awarded for the polls. Watch the full video here: Upon arrival at the assembly on Tuesday, the lawmakers were welcomed by members of PPP. Soon, PTI lawmakers attacked the "rebel" members, which led to a scuffle. Also read: At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan providing 'pensions' to terrorists Gabol was at the centre of the scuffle, daily Dawn said in a report. He was surrounded by other PTI lawmakers who called out PPP for "oppression". Earlier, in a video message on Monday, Gabol announced that he would not vote for candidates from the PTI in the Senate elections. Also read: Pakistan PM yet again puts onus of restoring ceasefire along LoC on India Once the violence subsided, Gabol was escorted out of the assembly, after which he was driven away, the newspaper reported. The others who had switched sides - Shar and Abro, continued to extend support to the PPP and left the assembly with government members. The session was adjourned until Wednesday, when Senate elections are to take place. After the dust settled, Abro told local media that he, along with other dissidents intends to vote "according to [their] conscience'' in the polls, adding that he still does not intend to support PTI candidates.

Watch: Pakistan's Sindh Assembly descends into chaos after lawmakers engage in fisticuffs

With hope to restore trade ties with India, Pakistan is likely to import cotton from India. Pakistan takes this decision after a shortage of cotton yarn in the country.

Pakistan: Cotton yarn shortage may lead to import from India

Pakistan`s Awami National Party (ANP) has condemned the murder of its Balochistan secretary information Asad Khan Achakzai and announced that it will observe three-day mourning to press the Imran Khan government for the arrest of the killers.

Asad Achakzai's bullet-riddled body was recovered from the Killi Nosahar area in Quetta on Saturday. He had gone missing in September last year, Dawn reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-may-resume-import-of-cotton-from-india-report-367097" hreflang="en">Pakistan may resume import of cotton from India: Report</a>

ANP president Asfandyar Wali Khan issued a statement on Saturday demanding a probe into the murder of the party's provincial spokesperson. "ANP held protest rallies and sought help from judiciary through a petition in the Balochistan High Court, but to no avail," ANP chief said, as quoted by Dawn.

Later on Sunday, a funeral prayer for the slain ANP leader was held in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa`s Chitral District. "ANP Balochistan spokesperson Asad Achakzai`s funeral prayers were offered in absentia at the district secretariat under the auspices of Awami National Party Chitral District," ANP tweeted (in Arabic).

While addressing the rally in Charsadda, ANP provincial president Aimal Wali Khan last week had said that the "mothers and sisters of missing persons were wandering on roads but nobody gave heed to their requests".

He pointed that according to the available data over 6,000 people are missing across the country, of which 23 were forcibly disappeared in January.

Enforced disappearances have been a long stain on Pakistan`s human rights record. Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalise the practice, there has been a very slow movement on legislation, while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity.

Pakistan`s Awami National Party (ANP) has condemned the murder of its Balochistan secretary information Asad Khan Achakzai and announced that it will observe three-day mourning to press the Imran Khan government for the arrest of the killers.

Pakistan`s Awami National Party (ANP) has condemned the murder of its Balochistan secretary information Asad Khan Achakzai and announced that it will observe three-day mourning to press the Imran Khan government for the arrest of the killers. Asad Achakzai's bullet-riddled body was recovered from the Killi Nosahar area in Quetta on Saturday. He had gone missing in September last year, Dawn reported. Also read | Pakistan may resume import of cotton from India: Report ANP president Asfandyar Wali Khan issued a statement on Saturday demanding a probe into the murder of the party's provincial spokesperson. "ANP held protest rallies and sought help from judiciary through a petition in the Balochistan High Court, but to no avail," ANP chief said, as quoted by Dawn. Later on Sunday, a funeral prayer for the slain ANP leader was held in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa`s Chitral District. "ANP Balochistan spokesperson Asad Achakzai`s funeral prayers were offered in absentia at the district secretariat under the auspices of Awami National Party Chitral District," ANP tweeted (in Arabic). While addressing the rally in Charsadda, ANP provincial president Aimal Wali Khan last week had said that the "mothers and sisters of missing persons were wandering on roads but nobody gave heed to their requests". He pointed that according to the available data over 6,000 people are missing across the country, of which 23 were forcibly disappeared in January. Enforced disappearances have been a long stain on Pakistan`s human rights record. Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalise the practice, there has been a very slow movement on legislation, while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity.

Pakistan: Awami National Party demands probe into murder of party leader

Ahead of 2nd anniversary of the Balakot Airstrike, India & Pakistan issued a joint statement promising to observe all agreements on ceasefire at LoC. Can Islamabad be trusted to keep the promise? Here's what WION's Palki Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Decoding India-Pakistan ceasefire pact

Turkey -- a country that loves to preach the world on what's right and what isn't, a country which in tandem with Pakistan -- has kept the rhetorical fire on Kashmir alive at global platforms.

Up until now, New Delhi responded to Ankara's adventurism keeping bilateral ties in mind. But this time, it pulled no punches.

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On Monday, the UN Human Rights Council began its 46th session. The foreign ministers of each country took turns to speak -- Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke about terrorism, the pandemic and vaccines, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke about democracy, peace and stability, and the Turkish foreign minister decided to score a self-goal -- he spoke about Kashmir.&nbsp;

Mevlut Chavu-Shoglu tried to target India over the Kashmir issue. He claimed New Delhi was trampling on the rights of Kashmiris. But he made no mention of Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism in the region.

The Pakistani embassy in Turkey couldn't be happier. It tweeted the Turkish foreign minister's speech with the collusion evident.

And India decided to hit back. Seema Pujani, India's second secretary at the United Nations did not mince words.

She reminded Turkey of the UNSC resolution on Cyprus.

Turkey has occupied northern Cyprus since 1974. In 1984, the UNSC passed a resolution on transferring the area to United Nations administration.

But despite repeated calls, the Turkish occupation continues. So India decided to raise the issue.

The statement said, "As regards the remarks made by turkey, we find them completely unacceptable. It is ironical for a country which has trampled upon its own civil society to pass unjustified comments on other's internal matters.

"As far as the subject of un resolutions is concerned, we would advise turkey to practice what it preaches by first implementing those un resolutions that apply to it."

This is not the first time Turkey has tried to target India over Kashmir. In 2017, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdpgan travelled to India.

Even then also, he sought Turkey's role in the Kashmir conflict, and tried to intervene in a bilateral issue -- by suggesting a multi-lateral dialogue.

Two years later, Erdogan spoke at the UN General Assembly, and said that 8 million people are stuck in Kashmir.

He accused india of human rights violations; then in February, 2020, Erdogan travelled to Islamabad. There, he addressed a joint session of Pakistan's parliament, and tried justifying Islamabad's cross border-terrorism in Kashmir.

A few weeks later, he made a statement in Ankara, "India right now has become a country Where massacres are widespread. What massacres? Massacres of Muslims. By whom? Hindus. How will these people make global peace possible? It is impossible when making speeches -- since they have a large population -- they say 'we are strong' but that is not strength."

And he said this being a leader who has clamped down on the rights of Kurdish Muslims in his country.

In a nutshell, Erdogan doesn't really practice what he preaches. He may have made Islam the centre of Turkish politics and the guiding light of Turkey's foreign policy. But it's all a political stunt and a tool to keep his power intact.

He brings up Kashmir to keep his domestic audience happy. And to keep countries like Pakistan pleased.

'Practice what you preach' - is the only message that India should give to Turkey.

Turkey -- a country that loves to preach the world on what's right and what isn't, a country which in tandem with Pakistan -- has kept the rhetorical fire on Kashmir alive at global platforms.

Turkey -- a country that loves to preach the world on what's right and what isn't, a country which in tandem with Pakistan -- has kept the rhetorical fire on Kashmir alive at global platforms. Up until now, New Delhi responded to Ankara's adventurism keeping bilateral ties in mind. But this time, it pulled no punches. On Monday, the UN Human Rights Council began its 46th session. The foreign ministers of each country took turns to speak -- Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke about terrorism, the pandemic and vaccines, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke about democracy, peace and stability, and the Turkish foreign minister decided to score a self-goal -- he spoke about Kashmir. Mevlut Chavu-Shoglu tried to target India over the Kashmir issue. He claimed New Delhi was trampling on the rights of Kashmiris. But he made no mention of Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism in the region. The Pakistani embassy in Turkey couldn't be happier. It tweeted the Turkish foreign minister's speech with the collusion evident. And India decided to hit back. Seema Pujani, India's second secretary at the United Nations did not mince words. She reminded Turkey of the UNSC resolution on Cyprus. Turkey has occupied northern Cyprus since 1974. In 1984, the UNSC passed a resolution on transferring the area to United Nations administration. But despite repeated calls, the Turkish occupation continues. So India decided to raise the issue. The statement said, "As regards the remarks made by turkey, we find them completely unacceptable. It is ironical for a country which has trampled upon its own civil society to pass unjustified comments on other's internal matters. "As far as the subject of un resolutions is concerned, we would advise turkey to practice what it preaches by first implementing those un resolutions that apply to it." This is not the first time Turkey has tried to target India over Kashmir. In 2017, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdpgan travelled to India. Even then also, he sought Turkey's role in the Kashmir conflict, and tried to intervene in a bilateral issue -- by suggesting a multi-lateral dialogue. Two years later, Erdogan spoke at the UN General Assembly, and said that 8 million people are stuck in Kashmir. He accused india of human rights violations; then in February, 2020, Erdogan travelled to Islamabad. There, he addressed a joint session of Pakistan's parliament, and tried justifying Islamabad's cross border-terrorism in Kashmir. A few weeks later, he made a statement in Ankara, "India right now has become a country Where massacres are widespread. What massacres? Massacres of Muslims. By whom? Hindus. How will these people make global peace possible? It is impossible when making speeches -- since they have a large population -- they say 'we are strong' but that is not strength." And he said this being a leader who has clamped down on the rights of Kurdish Muslims in his country. In a nutshell, Erdogan doesn't really practice what he preaches. He may have made Islam the centre of Turkish politics and the guiding light of Turkey's foreign policy. But it's all a political stunt and a tool to keep his power intact. He brings up Kashmir to keep his domestic audience happy. And to keep countries like Pakistan pleased. 'Practice what you preach' - is the only message that India should give to Turkey.

'Practice what you preach' - this is India's message to Turkey

Tehran has confirmed it is investigating an incident in which at least two Iranians were shot dead this week at the border with Pakistan.

Islamabad, in this regard, has already handed over the body of one of the victims, the Iranian foreign ministry said on Friday.

Monday’s shooting of at least two people carrying fuel across the border led to protests that spread from the city of Saravan to other areas in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, including the capital, Zahedan.

A provincial security official has said calm has returned to the province with the help of religious leaders. Media quoted prominent Baluch Sunni Muslim religious leader Molavi Abdulhamid as urging calm and calling for an independent investigation.

"The body of at least one person was delivered by Pakistan’s border guards. We are reviewing the incident," Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh was quoted as saying by Iranian media.

Protesters stormed a governor’s office in southeastern Iran on Tuesday and set fire to a police car, according to videos posted on social media. Security forces used tear gas to disperse the crowd.

(with inputs from agencies)

Tehran has confirmed it is investigating an incident in which at least two Iranians were shot dead this week at the border with Pakistan. Islamabad, in this regard, has already handed over the body of one of the victims, the Iranian foreign ministry said on Friday.

Tehran has confirmed it is investigating an incident in which at least two Iranians were shot dead this week at the border with Pakistan. Islamabad, in this regard, has already handed over the body of one of the victims, the Iranian foreign ministry said on Friday. Monday’s shooting of at least two people carrying fuel across the border led to protests that spread from the city of Saravan to other areas in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, including the capital, Zahedan. A provincial security official has said calm has returned to the province with the help of religious leaders. Media quoted prominent Baluch Sunni Muslim religious leader Molavi Abdulhamid as urging calm and calling for an independent investigation. "The body of at least one person was delivered by Pakistan’s border guards. We are reviewing the incident," Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh was quoted as saying by Iranian media. Protesters stormed a governor’s office in southeastern Iran on Tuesday and set fire to a police car, according to videos posted on social media. Security forces used tear gas to disperse the crowd. (with inputs from agencies)

Iran says investigation into shooting deaths at border with Pakistan is on

'The FATF recognises that Pakistan has made significant progress in its efforts to improve its anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework.', says FATF President.

Pakistan to remain in FATF Grey List

Imran Khan PTI's visit to Sri Lanka was all about pushing propaganda. Some for Islamabad, some for its chief sponsor Beijing. The Pak PM couldn't stop praising China and used a business forum to rake up Kashmir. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Imran Khan raises Kashmir in Colombo

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As many as 57 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have supported India's proposal for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid-19 vaccines | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-trips-waiver-proposal-at-wto-gets-a-boost-secures-support-of-57-nations-366238">READ MORE</a>

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Sri Lanka has again turned to China for a fresh injection of cash, the country is seeking $2.2 billion from Chinese banks | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-sinks-deeper-into-chinas-grasp-seeks-22-billion-from-beijing-as-reserves-shrink-366221">READ MORE</a>

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After the success of 'Wanda Vision' and 'The Mandalorian', streaming giant Disney plus has announced the release date of few other anticipated shows from Marvel and Star Wars universes | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/heres-when-loki-and-star-wars-the-bad-batch-will-premiere-366249">READ MORE</a>

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for tougher discipline within the army and appointed new chiefs of the navy and the air force as he chaired an enlarged meeting of the central military commission | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-appoints-new-navy-air-force-chiefs-in-generation-shift-in-army-366270">READ MORE</a>

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China`s National Medical Products Administration said on Thursday that it had approved two more COVID-19 vaccines for public use, increasing the number of domestic vaccines approved in China to four | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-approves-two-more-domestic-covid-19-vaccines-increasing-number-to-four-366251">READ MORE</a>

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FATF grey-list ‘takes down’ Pakistan by USD 38 billion: Report A research paper by an Islamabad-based think tank has revealed that Pakistan sustained a total of USD 38 billion in economic losses due to FATF's decision to thrice place the country on its grey list since 2008 | READ MORE India's TRIPS waiver proposal at WTO gets a boost, secures support of 57 nations As many as 57 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have supported India's proposal for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid-19 vaccines | READ MORE Axar-Ashwin bamboozle England as India win pink-ball Test by 10 wickets, take 2-1 lead in the series India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad | READ MORE Sri Lanka sinks deeper into China's grasp, seeks $2.

FATF grey-list ‘takes down’ Pakistan by USD 38 billion: Report A research paper by an Islamabad-based think tank has revealed that Pakistan sustained a total of USD 38 billion in economic losses due to FATF's decision to thrice place the country on its grey list since 2008 | READ MORE India's TRIPS waiver proposal at WTO gets a boost, secures support of 57 nations As many as 57 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have supported India's proposal for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid-19 vaccines | READ MORE Axar-Ashwin bamboozle England as India win pink-ball Test by 10 wickets, take 2-1 lead in the series India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad | READ MORE Sri Lanka sinks deeper into China's grasp, seeks $2.2 billion from Beijing as reserves shrink Sri Lanka has again turned to China for a fresh injection of cash, the country is seeking $2.2 billion from Chinese banks | READ MORE PNB scam case: Nirav Modi to be extradited to India, loses case in UK court Fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi will be extradited to India to stand trial, UK extradition judge ordered on Thursday | READ MORE China refutes reports that said it used Covid-19 anal swabs on US diplomats China has clarified it had never asked US diplomats to undergo Covid-19 anal swabs | READ MORE Here's when 'Loki' and 'Star Wars: The Bad Batch' will premiere After the success of 'Wanda Vision' and 'The Mandalorian', streaming giant Disney plus has announced the release date of few other anticipated shows from Marvel and Star Wars universes | READ MORE North Korea's Kim appoints new Navy, Air Force Chiefs in 'generation shift' in Army North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for tougher discipline within the army and appointed new chiefs of the navy and the air force as he chaired an enlarged meeting of the central military commission | READ MORE China approves two more domestic COVID-19 vaccines, increasing number to four China`s National Medical Products Administration said on Thursday that it had approved two more COVID-19 vaccines for public use, increasing the number of domestic vaccines approved in China to four | READ MORE A third dose? Pfizer to test tweaked vaccine to target S African strain of coronavirus Pfizer and BioNTech have been studying adding a third dose to their vaccine regime and testing a new version that will target the South African variant of the coronavirus | READ MORE Britain's financial watchdog appoints five women to top roles Britain's financial watchdog announced five new appointments on Thursday, creating an executive committee dominated by women | READ MORE WHO urges actions for 'long COVID' sufferers The World Health Organisation's (WHO) European branch said Thursday that patients experiencing post-Covid or long Covid symptoms needed to be heard to and understanding long-term consequences should be made a priority by health authorities | READ MORE

Top ten world news: Lanka sinks deeper into China's grasp, and more

India and Pakistan have issued a joint statement to cease all firing along the Line of Control. This move is effective from midnight 24/25 February.

WION Dispatch: India-Pakistan decide to ceasefire along LoC

Pakistani Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/imran-khan">Imran Khan </a>on Tuesday while arriving at Colombo had crossed into the airspace of India's exclusive economic zone. The permission for it was sought from New Delhi from Islamabad a few days ago. India had given permission on Monday.

As a protocol. whenever heads of state or governments pass through the air space of any other country, the country is alerted&nbsp;with due permission taken. It is likely that Pak PM Imran Khan will use the same route to return back from Sri Lanka to Pakistan later today.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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It is noteworthy that in the aftermath of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan had denied permission for overflight for President Kovind's plane one time, and PM Modi's plane two times.&nbsp;

In September 2019, Pakistan denied the use of its airspace for President Kovind's plane during his Europe visit. In the same month, it denied overflight to PM Modi's plane to attend the UNGA session, followed by no permission to Air India one during PM's Saudi Arabia visit in October 2019. India had taken the matter with the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday while arriving at Colombo had crossed into the airspace of India's exclusive economic zone. The permission for it was sought from New Delhi from Islamabad a few days ago.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday while arriving at Colombo had crossed into the airspace of India's exclusive economic zone. The permission for it was sought from New Delhi from Islamabad a few days ago. India had given permission on Monday. As a protocol. whenever heads of state or governments pass through the air space of any other country, the country is alerted with due permission taken. It is likely that Pak PM Imran Khan will use the same route to return back from Sri Lanka to Pakistan later today. Watch | It is noteworthy that in the aftermath of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan had denied permission for overflight for President Kovind's plane one time, and PM Modi's plane two times. In September 2019, Pakistan denied the use of its airspace for President Kovind's plane during his Europe visit. In the same month, it denied overflight to PM Modi's plane to attend the UNGA session, followed by no permission to Air India one during PM's Saudi Arabia visit in October 2019. India had taken the matter with the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Imran Khan crossed airspace of India's exclusive economic zone

Pakistan Prime Minister's obsession with Kashmir continues. During his visit to Sri Lanka Imran Khan once again has raised the issue of Kashmir and said that it is the only issue between India and Pakistan.

Pak PM's obsession with Kashmir continues; Imran Khan's raises Kashmir In Sri Lanka

Pakistan's Awami National Party (ANP) has demanded the government to ensure the safe return of persons, who have forcibly disappeared, including Asad Khan Achakzai, a spokesman of ANP Balochistan.&nbsp;

According to a report by Dawn, the ANP held protests across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa against the enforced disappearances of people in different provinces and demanded the government to ensure safe return of the missing persons.&nbsp;

The Peshawar rally was led by Ghulam Ahmad Bilour, Samar Haroon Bilour, Abidullah Yousufzai and other leaders of the party. The families of the missing persons also participated in the rally demanding the safe return of their dear ones.&nbsp;

Speakers on the occasion said that relatives of the missing people were left with the only option to hold demonstrations because the government was least bothered to take practical steps for their return, Dawn reported.&nbsp;

Among the missing persons is Asad Khan Achakzai, a spokesman of ANP Balochistan. He has been missing for five months. The News International quoted the ANP leaders as saying that the missing supporters of the party should be produced in a court of law if they were wanted by police in any unlawful activity.&nbsp;

"We demand the government to take urgent steps for the presentation of the people in courts of law for trial," said Ghulam Ahmad Bilour.&nbsp;

While addressing the rally in Charsadda ANP provincial president Aimal Wali Khan said that the "mothers and sisters of missing persons were wandering on roads but nobody gave heed to their requests".&nbsp;

He pointed that according to the available data over 6,000 people are missing across the country, of which 23 were forcibly disappeared in January.&nbsp;

In Mardan, ANP senior vice-president and former chief minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti said that "it would be criminal negligence if they remained silent over the issue of missing persons".&nbsp;

The protest rallies were also held in Kurram tribal district, Malakand and several other parts of the province seeking recovery of missing persons.&nbsp;

Enforced disappearances have been a long stain on Pakistan's human rights record. Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalise the practice, there has been a very slow movement on legislation, which is equal to nothing, while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity. &nbsp;

Pakistan's Awami National Party (ANP) has demanded the government to ensure the safe return of persons, who have forcibly disappeared, including Asad Khan Achakzai, a spokesman of ANP Balochistan.

Pakistan's Awami National Party (ANP) has demanded the government to ensure the safe return of persons, who have forcibly disappeared, including Asad Khan Achakzai, a spokesman of ANP Balochistan. According to a report by Dawn, the ANP held protests across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa against the enforced disappearances of people in different provinces and demanded the government to ensure safe return of the missing persons. The Peshawar rally was led by Ghulam Ahmad Bilour, Samar Haroon Bilour, Abidullah Yousufzai and other leaders of the party. The families of the missing persons also participated in the rally demanding the safe return of their dear ones. Speakers on the occasion said that relatives of the missing people were left with the only option to hold demonstrations because the government was least bothered to take practical steps for their return, Dawn reported. Among the missing persons is Asad Khan Achakzai, a spokesman of ANP Balochistan. He has been missing for five months. The News International quoted the ANP leaders as saying that the missing supporters of the party should be produced in a court of law if they were wanted by police in any unlawful activity. "We demand the government to take urgent steps for the presentation of the people in courts of law for trial," said Ghulam Ahmad Bilour. While addressing the rally in Charsadda ANP provincial president Aimal Wali Khan said that the "mothers and sisters of missing persons were wandering on roads but nobody gave heed to their requests". He pointed that according to the available data over 6,000 people are missing across the country, of which 23 were forcibly disappeared in January. In Mardan, ANP senior vice-president and former chief minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti said that "it would be criminal negligence if they remained silent over the issue of missing persons". The protest rallies were also held in Kurram tribal district, Malakand and several other parts of the province seeking recovery of missing persons. Enforced disappearances have been a long stain on Pakistan's human rights record. Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalise the practice, there has been a very slow movement on legislation, which is equal to nothing, while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity.

ANP holds protests demanding safe return of missing persons across Pakistan

Don't get surprised if in Pakistan's Karachi you see cops running after criminals with rollerblades.&nbsp;

This is a part of rigorous training of a group of police officers for a new armed rollerblading unit to control theft and harassment on the city's streets.&nbsp;

The 20-member unit comprises 10 men and 10 women cops who were seen gliding in a circle and lowering and lifting their unloaded guns in unison.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-president-meets-pakistans-imran-khan-365844">Sri Lankan President meets Pakistan's Imran Khan</a>

"We felt we needed to come up with an innovative approach to control street crime," Farrukh Ali, head of unit, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

He explained how these police officers can comfortably nab thieves riding bikes. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fdi-in-pakistan-down-by-27-per-cent-in-the-first-seven-months-investment-from-china-dwindles-report-365744">FDI in Pakistan down by 27 per cent in the first seven months; investment from China dwindles: Report</a>

"This rollerblading will really benefit us. With this training, we can reach narrow alleys very quickly where it is usually difficult to go," Aneela Aslam, an officer of the group said.&nbsp;

However, Farrukh said this team cannot be deployed across many parts of the city as rollerblading require good and even roads.&nbsp;

They would be commissioned to public places where the theft and harassment rate is high, the unit chief said.&nbsp;

He also said that the unit would only use handguns, and in certain locations, including shopping malls, the cops will not be armed.&nbsp;

These police officers are expected to officially begin this duty next month, though, they were recently seen deployed outside the venue of the Pakistan Super League cricket tournament.

They have also started patrolling Karachi's bustling beachfront.

Don't get surprised if in Pakistan's Karachi you see cops running after criminals with rollerblades. This is a part of rigorous training of a group of police officers for a new armed rollerblading unit to control theft and harassment on the city's streets.

Don't get surprised if in Pakistan's Karachi you see cops running after criminals with rollerblades. This is a part of rigorous training of a group of police officers for a new armed rollerblading unit to control theft and harassment on the city's streets. The 20-member unit comprises 10 men and 10 women cops who were seen gliding in a circle and lowering and lifting their unloaded guns in unison. Also read | Sri Lankan President meets Pakistan's Imran Khan "We felt we needed to come up with an innovative approach to control street crime," Farrukh Ali, head of unit, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. He explained how these police officers can comfortably nab thieves riding bikes. Also read | FDI in Pakistan down by 27 per cent in the first seven months; investment from China dwindles: Report "This rollerblading will really benefit us. With this training, we can reach narrow alleys very quickly where it is usually difficult to go," Aneela Aslam, an officer of the group said. However, Farrukh said this team cannot be deployed across many parts of the city as rollerblading require good and even roads. They would be commissioned to public places where the theft and harassment rate is high, the unit chief said. He also said that the unit would only use handguns, and in certain locations, including shopping malls, the cops will not be armed. These police officers are expected to officially begin this duty next month, though, they were recently seen deployed outside the venue of the Pakistan Super League cricket tournament. They have also started patrolling Karachi's bustling beachfront.

Meet Karachi's cops who roll on 'blades' to catch criminals

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Wednesday in Colombo in which the talks were focused on trade, tourism and agriculture.&nbsp;

"Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI &nbsp;this morning. The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism &amp; adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on," Rajapaksa in a tweet wrote.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Had a productive discussion with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> PM <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> this morning. 
The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism &amp; adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lka</a> <a href="https://t.co/j6iUMRcf4f">pic.twitter.com/j6iUMRcf4f</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1364480021683789825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Imran on Tuesday met his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa in which he said he was looking forward to improving trade relations with Sri Lanka through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-imran-khan-doing-in-sri-lanka-365765/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He earlier described his visit to the island nation as aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties.&nbsp;

In an address post his meeting with the Sri Lankan PM, Imran said CPEC means connectivity right up to Central Asia.&nbsp;

Imran said he and his Sri Lankan counterpart "discussed other areas where we can enhance our trading ties where Sri Lanka can benefit from Pakistan's connectivity in the future, right up to central Asia."&nbsp;

"And our trading ties will also mean that the two countries will get together," the Pakistani PM said.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Imran will participate in a joint 'Trade and Investment Conference' that aims to promote trade and investment between the two countries.&nbsp;

A number of agreements to boost bilateral cooperation will also be signed during the Pakistani PM's visit.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Wednesday in Colombo in which the talks were focused on trade, tourism and agriculture. "Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI this morning.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Wednesday in Colombo in which the talks were focused on trade, tourism and agriculture. "Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI this morning. The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism & adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on," Rajapaksa in a tweet wrote. Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI this morning. The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism & adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on#SriLanka #Pakistan #lka pic.twitter.com/j6iUMRcf4f — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) February 24, 2021 × Imran on Tuesday met his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa in which he said he was looking forward to improving trade relations with Sri Lanka through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Watch | He earlier described his visit to the island nation as aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties. In an address post his meeting with the Sri Lankan PM, Imran said CPEC means connectivity right up to Central Asia. Imran said he and his Sri Lankan counterpart "discussed other areas where we can enhance our trading ties where Sri Lanka can benefit from Pakistan's connectivity in the future, right up to central Asia." "And our trading ties will also mean that the two countries will get together," the Pakistani PM said. On Wednesday, Imran will participate in a joint 'Trade and Investment Conference' that aims to promote trade and investment between the two countries. A number of agreements to boost bilateral cooperation will also be signed during the Pakistani PM's visit.

Sri Lankan President meets Pakistan's Imran Khan

Police in Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi, is deploying an armed rollerblading unit to curb theft and harassment on its teeming streets.

Your Story: Karachi cops train for an armed rollerblading unit

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will be using the Indian air space to travel to Sri Lanka. He will be on a two-day visit to the country from today — his second visit that comes months after his visit to Afghanistan.

Pak PM Imran Khan to use Indian air space for travel to Sri Lanka

Continuation on the FATF's “grey" list means that Pakistan will not get any respite from difficulties in trying to access finances in the form of investments

Will Pakistan Come Off the FATF Grey List?

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