Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has kickstarted the Diamer-Bhasha dam project in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. It is said to be the country's biggest. However, it is owned by China and built by displacing thousands of people.

Gravitas: The Diamer-Bhasha Dam: China's dam, Pakistan's debt

Muhammad Waqas had not even thought that a viral post could change his life forever.

Muhammad, who came to Saudi Arabia four years ago and worked as a carpenter, always wanted to be a model, but didn't expect that he will succeed in this glamorous profession.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-gets-consular-access-for-kulbhushan-jadhav-in-pakistan-313675#:~:text=India%20has%20got%20consular%20access,and%20wife%20to%20meet%20him.">India gets consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav in Pakistan</a>

"One day I saw my friend [Faisal] editing the photos of a photo session. I told him that since childhood I have wanted to work in this field but in Pakistan, I did not get the chance, so my friend suggested and took a picture of me and sent it to the relevant person,” he told local media channels, reports Gulf News.&nbsp;

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VEL x وقّاس<a href="https://twitter.com/MuhammadWaqas1_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MuhammadWaqas1_</a> 
Photographer insta: codyryan <a href="https://t.co/vvkbbfxF0I">pic.twitter.com/vvkbbfxF0I</a>
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thank you all , wait for my new pic coming soon , شكرا لكم جميعا احبكم🙏🥰🥰😍 <a href="https://t.co/m82ahArPlY">https://t.co/m82ahArPlY</a>
— Waqas (@MuhammadWaqas1_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MuhammadWaqas1_/status/1282440527993020417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-records-2145-new-cases-total-tally-reaches-257914-313688">Pakistan's records 2,145 new cases; total tally reaches 257,914</a>

A tweet by Muhammad's friend asking work for him in the modeling industry went viral. The post got over 30,000 likes and immediately Muhammad started getting modeling opportunities.&nbsp;

Muhammad later posted his pictures which showed him modeling for Saudi Arabia-based vest brand.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Nearly four years ago, a Pakistan-based tea seller's images also went viral, and his blue green eyes garnered thousands of likes.&nbsp;

Arshan Khan, who was 18 during that time, is now pursuing a career in advertising and modeling.&nbsp;

Muhammad Waqas had not even thought that a viral post could change his life forever. Muhammad, who came to Saudi Arabia four years ago and worked as a carpenter, always wanted to be a model, but didn't expect that he will succeed in this glamorous profession.

Muhammad Waqas had not even thought that a viral post could change his life forever. Muhammad, who came to Saudi Arabia four years ago and worked as a carpenter, always wanted to be a model, but didn't expect that he will succeed in this glamorous profession. Also read | India gets consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav in Pakistan "One day I saw my friend [Faisal] editing the photos of a photo session. I told him that since childhood I have wanted to work in this field but in Pakistan, I did not get the chance, so my friend suggested and took a picture of me and sent it to the relevant person,” he told local media channels, reports Gulf News. VEL x وقّاس@MuhammadWaqas1_ Photographer insta: codyryan pic.twitter.com/vvkbbfxF0I — vel.saudi (@SaudiVel) July 13, 2020 × thank you all , wait for my new pic coming soon , شكرا لكم جميعا احبكم🙏🥰🥰😍 https://t.co/m82ahArPlY — Waqas (@MuhammadWaqas1_) July 12, 2020 × #NewProfilePic Sponsored by:@Saudivel Insta: Vel.saudi ✨✨ pic.twitter.com/95zD4u2FmC — Waqas (@MuhammadWaqas1_) July 13, 2020 × Also read | Pakistan's records 2,145 new cases; total tally reaches 257,914 A tweet by Muhammad's friend asking work for him in the modeling industry went viral. The post got over 30,000 likes and immediately Muhammad started getting modeling opportunities. Muhammad later posted his pictures which showed him modeling for Saudi Arabia-based vest brand. Nearly four years ago, a Pakistan-based tea seller's images also went viral, and his blue green eyes garnered thousands of likes. Arshan Khan, who was 18 during that time, is now pursuing a career in advertising and modeling.

A carpenter from Pakistan becomes model in Saudi Arabia

After failing to comply with FATF guidelines to end terror financing, Pakistan has now restored the bank accounts of 5 terrorists including Hafiz Saeed.

Gravitas: Pakistan restores bank accounts of 5 terrorists

Pakistan said on Monday that the bank accounts of the UN-designated persons have "not been unfrozen", a day after a media report claimed that JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's account has been restored.

"The bank accounts belonging to the UN-Designated Persons have not been unfrozen by Pakistan. The targeted financial sanctions, on the UN-Designated Persons, including freezing of their bank accounts are in place and being strictly monitored, in compliance with the UN sanctions,"&nbsp;Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-restores-bank-accounts-of-five-terrorists-313071">Pakistan restores bank accounts of five terrorists</a>

The UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee had granted basic expense exemptions to the designated individuals in 2019, in accordance with the exemption provisions of the relevant UNSC resolutions, she said.

"The exemptions were granted to allow these individuals to meet their basic expenses and do not involve any restoration or unfreezing of the bank accounts. These exemptions are being enforced and monitored as per law,"&nbsp;said the spokesperson.

It is hoped that due care would be taken in ascertaining facts with relevant government departments before filing such reports in the future, she said.

On Sunday, The News reported that Pakistan has restored the bank accounts of Saeed and his four top aides.

Saeed, an UN-designated terrorist whom the US has placed a USD 10 million bounty on, was arrested on July 17 last year in the terror financing cases. He was sentenced to 11 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in February this year in two terror financing cases. He is lodged at the Lahore's high-security Kot Lakhpat jail.

Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, Haji M Ashraf, Yahya Mujahid and Zafar Iqbal - all on the UN Security Council's terrorists list - were the other members of the JuD and Lashkar-e-Taiba who got their bank accounts restored, the paper said.

Saeed-led JuD is the front organisation for the LeT&nbsp;which is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans.

The US Department of the Treasury has designated Saeed as a Specially-Designated Global Terrorist. He was listed under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008.

His bank accounts were frozen by the Pakistani government complying with the UNSC resolution.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan said on Monday that the bank accounts of the UN-designated persons have "not been unfrozen", a day after a media report claimed that JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's account has been restored.

Pakistan said on Monday that the bank accounts of the UN-designated persons have "not been unfrozen", a day after a media report claimed that JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's account has been restored. "The bank accounts belonging to the UN-Designated Persons have not been unfrozen by Pakistan. The targeted financial sanctions, on the UN-Designated Persons, including freezing of their bank accounts are in place and being strictly monitored, in compliance with the UN sanctions," Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui said. Also read | Pakistan restores bank accounts of five terrorists The UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee had granted basic expense exemptions to the designated individuals in 2019, in accordance with the exemption provisions of the relevant UNSC resolutions, she said. "The exemptions were granted to allow these individuals to meet their basic expenses and do not involve any restoration or unfreezing of the bank accounts. These exemptions are being enforced and monitored as per law," said the spokesperson. It is hoped that due care would be taken in ascertaining facts with relevant government departments before filing such reports in the future, she said. On Sunday, The News reported that Pakistan has restored the bank accounts of Saeed and his four top aides. Saeed, an UN-designated terrorist whom the US has placed a USD 10 million bounty on, was arrested on July 17 last year in the terror financing cases. He was sentenced to 11 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in February this year in two terror financing cases. He is lodged at the Lahore's high-security Kot Lakhpat jail. Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, Haji M Ashraf, Yahya Mujahid and Zafar Iqbal - all on the UN Security Council's terrorists list - were the other members of the JuD and Lashkar-e-Taiba who got their bank accounts restored, the paper said. Saeed-led JuD is the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans. The US Department of the Treasury has designated Saeed as a Specially-Designated Global Terrorist. He was listed under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008. His bank accounts were frozen by the Pakistani government complying with the UNSC resolution.

Pakistan denies unfreezing of Hafiz Saeed, five other terrorists' bank accounts

The US&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has downgraded&nbsp;Pakistan's air safety rating after the agency raised concerns about pilot certifications.

The decision, disclosed on an FAA spreadsheet dated July 15 that was posted on an agency website and confirmed by an agency official, means the US&nbsp;air safety agency determined&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;does not achieve international standards and now has a Category 2 rating.

Pakistan&nbsp;last month grounded almost a third of its pilots after discovering they may have falsified their qualifications. The&nbsp;Pakistani embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The new rating means&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;airlines could be subject to additional inspections at US&nbsp;airports and could not add additional flights.

A company spokesman told Reuters last week the airline was planning to expand the current special flights arrangements to re-initiate a regular schedule from&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;to the United States to provide direct flights.

On Friday, the US&nbsp;Department of Transportation said it has revoked permission for&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;International Airlines (PIA) to conduct charter flights to the United States.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has suspended PIA's authorization to fly to the bloc for six months in a blow to the carrier's operations.

Pakistan's grounding of pilots with dubious credentials followed the crash of a PIA jet in May that killed 97 people.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has downgraded Pakistan's air safety rating after the agency raised concerns about pilot certifications. The decision, disclosed on an FAA spreadsheet dated July 15 that was posted on an agency website and confirmed by an agency official, means the US air safety agency determined Pakistan does not achieve international standards and now has a Category 2 rating.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has downgraded Pakistan's air safety rating after the agency raised concerns about pilot certifications. The decision, disclosed on an FAA spreadsheet dated July 15 that was posted on an agency website and confirmed by an agency official, means the US air safety agency determined Pakistan does not achieve international standards and now has a Category 2 rating. Pakistan last month grounded almost a third of its pilots after discovering they may have falsified their qualifications. The Pakistani embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The new rating means Pakistan airlines could be subject to additional inspections at US airports and could not add additional flights. A company spokesman told Reuters last week the airline was planning to expand the current special flights arrangements to re-initiate a regular schedule from Pakistan to the United States to provide direct flights. On Friday, the US Department of Transportation said it has revoked permission for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to conduct charter flights to the United States. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has suspended PIA's authorization to fly to the bloc for six months in a blow to the carrier's operations. Pakistan's grounding of pilots with dubious credentials followed the crash of a PIA jet in May that killed 97 people.

US regulators downgrade Pakistan's air safety rating

Is China making an effort to revive a terrorist organisation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir? WION's Palki Sharma tells you how China's support to Pakistan is shielding terrorists.

Gravitas: Is China a guardian for Pak terror groups?

Pakistan has restored the bank accounts of top five leaders of now-defunct Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), including its chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Muhammad Saeed.

Video: Pakistan restores Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's bank accounts

Pakistan's COVID-19 caseload has reached 248,872 with 2,521 new patients in the last 24 hours, while the death toll climbed to 5,197, the health ministry said on Sunday.

The Ministry of National Health Services said that the coronavirus recoveries were increasing in the country as about 63 per cent of the total infected patients have recovered so far.

It said that the number of recovered people reached 156,700.

The ministry said that 2,521 new cases surfaced during the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 248,872.

Maximum 103,836 cases were detected in Sindh, 86,556 in Punjab, 30,078 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 14,023 in Islamabad, 11,157 in Balochistan, 1,658 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 1,564 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The death toll reached 5,197 after 74 more coronavirus patients died. Another 2,118 were in critical condition.

So far a total of 1,562,638 tests were conducted across the country, including 24,211 in the last 24 hours.

Official data showed that the number of new cases has come down after reaching a maximum of 6,825 cases in a day recorded on June 13. For the last many days, the daily cases are less than 3,000.

According to Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, the contagion has infected over 12.7 million people and killed more than 565,000 across the world.

The COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December last year, has also battered the world economy with the International Monetary Fund saying that the global economy is bound to suffer a "severe recession".

Scientists are racing against time to find a vaccine or medicine for its treatment.&nbsp;

Pakistan's COVID-19 caseload has reached 248,872 with 2,521 new patients in the last 24 hours, while the death toll climbed to 5,197, the health ministry said on Sunday.

Pakistan's COVID-19 caseload has reached 248,872 with 2,521 new patients in the last 24 hours, while the death toll climbed to 5,197, the health ministry said on Sunday. The Ministry of National Health Services said that the coronavirus recoveries were increasing in the country as about 63 per cent of the total infected patients have recovered so far. It said that the number of recovered people reached 156,700. The ministry said that 2,521 new cases surfaced during the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 248,872. Maximum 103,836 cases were detected in Sindh, 86,556 in Punjab, 30,078 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 14,023 in Islamabad, 11,157 in Balochistan, 1,658 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 1,564 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The death toll reached 5,197 after 74 more coronavirus patients died. Another 2,118 were in critical condition. So far a total of 1,562,638 tests were conducted across the country, including 24,211 in the last 24 hours. Official data showed that the number of new cases has come down after reaching a maximum of 6,825 cases in a day recorded on June 13. For the last many days, the daily cases are less than 3,000. According to Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, the contagion has infected over 12.7 million people and killed more than 565,000 across the world. The COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December last year, has also battered the world economy with the International Monetary Fund saying that the global economy is bound to suffer a "severe recession". Scientists are racing against time to find a vaccine or medicine for its treatment.

Pakistan's tally reaches 248,872; death toll stands at 5,197

Pakistan has opened two more key trade routes with Afghanistan after months-long closure of the border due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Pakistan and Afghanistan share 18 crossing points. Pakistan closed its border with Iran and Afghanistan after COVID-19 cases increased in the country early this year.

Pakistani Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq on Saturday said the Angor Adda point in South Waziristan and the Kharlachi crossing in Kurram districts were reopened to boost trade between the two countries.

"Trade should be the mainstay of Pak-Afghan relations and prosperity of regions on both sides of the border," he tweeted. 
While the Angor Adda was operationalised on Friday, two days ahead of its scheduled opening, the Kharlachi was reopened on Saturday.

Pakistan is gradually reopening all its major trading points with Afghanistan. Last month, it reopened Torkham crossing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Chaman point in Balochistan and Ghulam Khan in North Waziristan tribal district to promote bilateral business and trade activities.

Pakistan is the largest importer of Afghani products, while Afghanistan is the 4th largest destination for Pakistani exports.&nbsp;

Pakistan has opened two more key trade routes with Afghanistan after months-long closure of the border due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pakistan and Afghanistan share 18 crossing points.

Pakistan has opened two more key trade routes with Afghanistan after months-long closure of the border due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pakistan and Afghanistan share 18 crossing points. Pakistan closed its border with Iran and Afghanistan after COVID-19 cases increased in the country early this year. Pakistani Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq on Saturday said the Angor Adda point in South Waziristan and the Kharlachi crossing in Kurram districts were reopened to boost trade between the two countries. "Trade should be the mainstay of Pak-Afghan relations and prosperity of regions on both sides of the border," he tweeted. While the Angor Adda was operationalised on Friday, two days ahead of its scheduled opening, the Kharlachi was reopened on Saturday. Pakistan is gradually reopening all its major trading points with Afghanistan. Last month, it reopened Torkham crossing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Chaman point in Balochistan and Ghulam Khan in North Waziristan tribal district to promote bilateral business and trade activities. Pakistan is the largest importer of Afghani products, while Afghanistan is the 4th largest destination for Pakistani exports.

Pak reopens 2 more trade routes with Afghan after months-long closure of border due to COVID-19

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked firing that continued overnight along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday.

Firing on the border outpost in Kotha area started around 10.30 pm on Friday, drawing effective retaliation by the Border Security Force guarding the IB, they said.

The officials said the exchange of fire between the two sides continued till 4.15 am but there was no report of any casualty or damage on the Indian side.

However, it caused panic among the border residents who were forced to spend the night in underground bunkers, the officials said.

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked firing that continued overnight along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday.

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked firing that continued overnight along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday. Firing on the border outpost in Kotha area started around 10.30 pm on Friday, drawing effective retaliation by the Border Security Force guarding the IB, they said. The officials said the exchange of fire between the two sides continued till 4.15 am but there was no report of any casualty or damage on the Indian side. However, it caused panic among the border residents who were forced to spend the night in underground bunkers, the officials said.

Pakistan violates ceasefire along IB in J-K's Kathua

The murder of a young girl & a young woman has revealed how patriarchy is deeply embedded in Pakistani society. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story of Zahra Shah & Sadaf Zahra Naqvi.

Gravitas: 2 stories that expose patriarchy in Pakistan

The US Department of Transportation said it has revoked permission for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to conduct charter flights to the United States, citing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) concerns over Pakistani pilot certifications.

US bans Pakistan International Airlines flights over safety issues

The South Asian region is battling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus and no positive trends have emerged so far. Several countries under this region were or are still under strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak. And a disappointing reality has come to fore, according to which poaching incidents in certain South Asian countries rose during the lockdown period.

The poaching cases jumped sharply in India, Nepal and Pakistan, and Bangladesh was the only exception that saw a decline in illegal hunting of animals in the lockdown period, reports DW.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ministers-hit-with-virus-as-pm-imran-refuses-to-impose-strict-lockdown-311219">Pakistan ministers hit with virus as PM Imran refuses to impose strict lockdown</a>

The report says Pakistan and Nepal confirmed a rise in the poaching of birds and endangered species from April to May this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-violence-pose-serious-challenges-to-afghan-peace-process-ghani-311350">Taliban violence pose 'serious challenges' to Afghan peace process: Ghani</a>

Local forest officials in Baluchistan province said the poaching of birds had shot up as the area was an important resting point for migratory birds returning to Siberia from India.&nbsp;

In Nepal, six musk deer were found dead in the Sangarmatha National Park, in what is seen as one of the worst poaching incidents.&nbsp;

Various regions in India reported a spike in poaching cases and wild animals, leopards, desert antelopes, and rhinos were targetted, the report added.&nbsp;

A one-horned rhino was shot down in the Kaziranga National Park, in northeastern India.

Despite the government's efforts to curb poaching activities, these remain an attractive business for hunters and officials believe since economic activities have taken a hit due to lockdown restrictions, illegal hunting is on a rise.&nbsp;

Poaching also poses health risks to humans, causing diseases from wild animals.&nbsp;

"There is a risk of zoonotic diseases spreading through these animals, especially the ones being used for meat. The more you tamper with nature, the more chances there are of spreading diseases," Latika Nath, author and wildlife conservationist, said.&nbsp;

The South Asian region is battling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus and no positive trends have emerged so far. Several countries under this region were or are still under strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak.

The South Asian region is battling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus and no positive trends have emerged so far. Several countries under this region were or are still under strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak. And a disappointing reality has come to fore, according to which poaching incidents in certain South Asian countries rose during the lockdown period. The poaching cases jumped sharply in India, Nepal and Pakistan, and Bangladesh was the only exception that saw a decline in illegal hunting of animals in the lockdown period, reports DW. Also read | Pakistan ministers hit with virus as PM Imran refuses to impose strict lockdown The report says Pakistan and Nepal confirmed a rise in the poaching of birds and endangered species from April to May this year. Also read | Taliban violence pose 'serious challenges' to Afghan peace process: Ghani Local forest officials in Baluchistan province said the poaching of birds had shot up as the area was an important resting point for migratory birds returning to Siberia from India. In Nepal, six musk deer were found dead in the Sangarmatha National Park, in what is seen as one of the worst poaching incidents. Various regions in India reported a spike in poaching cases and wild animals, leopards, desert antelopes, and rhinos were targetted, the report added. A one-horned rhino was shot down in the Kaziranga National Park, in northeastern India. Despite the government's efforts to curb poaching activities, these remain an attractive business for hunters and officials believe since economic activities have taken a hit due to lockdown restrictions, illegal hunting is on a rise. Poaching also poses health risks to humans, causing diseases from wild animals. "There is a risk of zoonotic diseases spreading through these animals, especially the ones being used for meat. The more you tamper with nature, the more chances there are of spreading diseases," Latika Nath, author and wildlife conservationist, said.

South Asian countries report rise in poaching cases during coronavirus lockdowns

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry has offered a second round of consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav

Pakistan offers 2nd consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav

Pakistan has recorded as many as 2980 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the tally to 237,489 while the testing for the lethal virus has been reduced for the 18th consecutive day.

Of 237,489 COVID-19 cases, 83,559 are from Punjab, 97,626 from Sindh, 28681 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 10919 from Balochistan, 13650 from Islamabad, 1595 from Gilgit-Baltistan and 1419 from Azad Kashmir, Radio Pakistan reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/pakistan-continues-foul-play-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-311754" hreflang="en">Pakistan continues foul play in Kulbhushan Jadhav case</a>

Meanwhile, 83 people have succumbed to the disease in the past 24 hours. The total death toll now stands at 4,922.

Despite the surging number of coronavirus cases, according to the data of the ministry of national health services regulation and coordination, for the 18th consecutive day, the testing has reduced considerably.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/pakistan-attempting-to-create-mirage-of-compliance-with-icj-judgement-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-india-311735" hreflang="en">Pakistan attempting to create mirage of compliance with ICJ judgement in Kulbhushan Jadhav case: India</a>

The largest drop in diagnosing samples was witnessed in Punjab, where only 7,659 tests were carried out on Tuesday, 44 per cent of the province`s capacity, Geo News reported.

The testing in Sindh has also climbed down, falling to 9,317 tests per day, compared to the previous day when it tested over 12,000 specimens.&nbsp;

Pakistan has recorded as many as 2980 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the tally to 237,489 while the testing for the lethal virus has been reduced for the 18th consecutive day.

Pakistan has recorded as many as 2980 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the tally to 237,489 while the testing for the lethal virus has been reduced for the 18th consecutive day. Of 237,489 COVID-19 cases, 83,559 are from Punjab, 97,626 from Sindh, 28681 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 10919 from Balochistan, 13650 from Islamabad, 1595 from Gilgit-Baltistan and 1419 from Azad Kashmir, Radio Pakistan reported. Also read: Pakistan continues foul play in Kulbhushan Jadhav case Meanwhile, 83 people have succumbed to the disease in the past 24 hours. The total death toll now stands at 4,922. Despite the surging number of coronavirus cases, according to the data of the ministry of national health services regulation and coordination, for the 18th consecutive day, the testing has reduced considerably. Also read: Pakistan attempting to create mirage of compliance with ICJ judgement in Kulbhushan Jadhav case: India The largest drop in diagnosing samples was witnessed in Punjab, where only 7,659 tests were carried out on Tuesday, 44 per cent of the province`s capacity, Geo News reported. The testing in Sindh has also climbed down, falling to 9,317 tests per day, compared to the previous day when it tested over 12,000 specimens.

Pakistan records 2,980 new COVID-19 cases

Highlighting how Pakistan continues to support terror amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India has said that Pakistan must introspect upon why it is universally acknowledged the international epicenter of terrorism and the best safe haven for terrorists.

WION Dispatch: India lists out Pakistani role in terror attacks | Slams Pak at UN

Several top leaders in Pakistan have been infected with the Wuhan virus - forcing them to work from home. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how Imran Khan's indecisiveness amid this pandemic could have created more troubles for his government.

Gravitas: Top Pak leaders infected with Wuhan Virus

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday (July 6) handed over the first batch of a dozen locally-manufactured ventilators to the country's National Disaster Management Authority in the northwestern city of Haripur.

Pakistan launches locally-manufactured ventilators amid virus surge

Pakistan has become a hotspot for COVID-19 in South Asia. Its top line of ministers is at risk of being infected with Coronavirus. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Pak PM Imran Khan at risk of COVID-19

Pakistan's coronavirus cases on Monday crossed the 231,000-mark after 3,344 new infections were detected in the last 24 hours, while 50 people died of the deadly disease, taking the death toll to 4,762, the health ministry said on Monday.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, the number of confirmed cases reached 231,818 after 3,344 new infections surfaced in the country, but 131,649 patients have also fully recovered from the COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-health-minister-zafar-mirza-contracts-coronavirus-311062">Pakistan's Health Minister Zafar Mirza contracts coronavirus</a>

Out of the total infections, Sindh province reported 94,528 cases, Punjab 81,963, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 28,116, Islamabad 13,494, Balochistan 10,814, Gilgit-Baltistan 1,561 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 1,342.

The total number of deaths reached 4,762 after another 50 patients died in the last 24 hours. Another 2,406 were in critical condition, it added.

The ministry also said that 56.78 per cent patients have recovered from the disease while those still infected are 43.21 per cent.

A total of 1,420,623 tests have been performed, including 22,271 in the last 24 hours.

Pakistan's coronavirus cases on Monday crossed the 231,000-mark after 3,344 new infections were detected in the last 24 hours, while 50 people died of the deadly disease, taking the death toll to 4,762, the health ministry said on Monday.

Pakistan's coronavirus cases on Monday crossed the 231,000-mark after 3,344 new infections were detected in the last 24 hours, while 50 people died of the deadly disease, taking the death toll to 4,762, the health ministry said on Monday. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, the number of confirmed cases reached 231,818 after 3,344 new infections surfaced in the country, but 131,649 patients have also fully recovered from the COVID-19. Also read | Pakistan's Health Minister Zafar Mirza contracts coronavirus Out of the total infections, Sindh province reported 94,528 cases, Punjab 81,963, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 28,116, Islamabad 13,494, Balochistan 10,814, Gilgit-Baltistan 1,561 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 1,342. The total number of deaths reached 4,762 after another 50 patients died in the last 24 hours. Another 2,406 were in critical condition, it added. The ministry also said that 56.78 per cent patients have recovered from the disease while those still infected are 43.21 per cent. A total of 1,420,623 tests have been performed, including 22,271 in the last 24 hours.

Pakistan: Total coronavirus infections cross 230,000-mark

Special adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said on Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, Geo News reported.

Mirza made the announcement on Twitter, where he said that upon medical advice, he is self-isolating at home and taking all the precautions.

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&lt;327&gt; I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home &amp; taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference &amp; I am proud of you.
— Zafar Mirza (@zfrmrza) <a href="https://twitter.com/zfrmrza/status/1280016074449326083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctors-in-pakistan-resign-over-inadequacy-of-safety-gear-to-protect-them-from-coronavirus-310945">Doctors in Pakistan resign over inadequacy of safety gear to protect them from coronavirus</a>

"I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home &amp; taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference and I am proud of you," he wrote.

Mirza, who also has been at the forefront of the government`s response to the pandemic, urged his colleagues to continue the fight against the virus.

Over the past 24 hours, the country on Monday reported 3,763 new cases and the recovery of 4,736 patients with 65 deaths, taking the national tally of cases to 231,017, recoveries to 129,830, and death toll to 4,745.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Special adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said on Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, Geo News reported. Mirza made the announcement on Twitter, where he said that upon medical advice, he is self-isolating at home and taking all the precautions.

Special adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said on Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, Geo News reported. Mirza made the announcement on Twitter, where he said that upon medical advice, he is self-isolating at home and taking all the precautions. <327> I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home & taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference & I am proud of you. — Zafar Mirza (@zfrmrza) July 6, 2020 × Also read | Doctors in Pakistan resign over inadequacy of safety gear to protect them from coronavirus "I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home & taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference and I am proud of you," he wrote. Mirza, who also has been at the forefront of the government`s response to the pandemic, urged his colleagues to continue the fight against the virus. Over the past 24 hours, the country on Monday reported 3,763 new cases and the recovery of 4,736 patients with 65 deaths, taking the national tally of cases to 231,017, recoveries to 129,830, and death toll to 4,745.

Pakistan's Health Minister Zafar Mirza contracts coronavirus

Amid rising coronavirus cases and a crippling economy, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed that his government will complete the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project "at any cost".

The project, which is a USD 60 billion project is being seen as a manifestation of the all-weather friendship between the two Asian countries, Pakistan and China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-enormous-ambition-is-leading-his-country-to-ruin-310580">Also read:&nbsp;Xi Jinping's enormous ambition is leading his country to ruin</a>

Imran Khan believes this project is an important step in the socio-economic development and the "gigantic multi-faceted initiative would guarantee a bright future for the nation", he said in CPEC review meeting.

"The corridor is a manifestation of Pakistan-China friendship and the government will complete it at any cost and bring its fruit to every Pakistani," Khan said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-guilty-of-forced-labour-under-horrendous-conditions-on-bri-project-us-report-308661">Also read:&nbsp;China guilty of forced labour under 'horrendous conditions' on BRI project: US Report</a>

While praising the efforts of the ongoing developments of the project, he urged the officials and workers to increase the productivity of the project.

The comments has come a day after the Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi discussed the developments of the CPEC projects with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi during a phone conversation.

The CPEC will connect Pakistan's&nbsp;Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, and is one of the first projects under Pakistan's&nbsp;Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

China's BRI has been under the magnifying glass of criticism as experts and country leaders feel that this is a way of China expanding it;s control over foreign lands, and this way China is reeling&nbsp;smaller countries under mounting Chinese debt after Sri Lanka gave its Hambantota port in a debt swap to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease.

Amid rising coronavirus cases and a crippling economy, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed that his government will complete the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project "at any cost".

Amid rising coronavirus cases and a crippling economy, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed that his government will complete the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project "at any cost". The project, which is a USD 60 billion project is being seen as a manifestation of the all-weather friendship between the two Asian countries, Pakistan and China. Also read: Xi Jinping's enormous ambition is leading his country to ruin Imran Khan believes this project is an important step in the socio-economic development and the "gigantic multi-faceted initiative would guarantee a bright future for the nation", he said in CPEC review meeting. "The corridor is a manifestation of Pakistan-China friendship and the government will complete it at any cost and bring its fruit to every Pakistani," Khan said. Also read: China guilty of forced labour under 'horrendous conditions' on BRI project: US Report While praising the efforts of the ongoing developments of the project, he urged the officials and workers to increase the productivity of the project. The comments has come a day after the Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi discussed the developments of the CPEC projects with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi during a phone conversation. The CPEC will connect Pakistan's Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, and is one of the first projects under Pakistan's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China's BRI has been under the magnifying glass of criticism as experts and country leaders feel that this is a way of China expanding it;s control over foreign lands, and this way China is reeling smaller countries under mounting Chinese debt after Sri Lanka gave its Hambantota port in a debt swap to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease.

Imran Khan vows to finish CPEC corridor 'at any cost' amid rising domestic issues

Pakistan halts hindu temple construction in another assault on minority rights. Roadblock comes a week after founding stone was laid.

Pakistan halts hindu temple construction in another 'assault' on minority rights

The construction of a Hindu Temple in Islamabad has rattled Pakistan's extremists. From clerics to lawyers & politicians, several top leaders in Pakistan want the construction work to stop. WION's Palki Sharma busts Pakistan's hypocrisy on religion.

Gravitas: Hindu Temple rattles Pakistan's 'extremists'

Two local Pakistan TV reporters were tortured for a coronavirus centre in the southwestern Balochistan province, reported Reporters Without Borders (RWF/RSF).

According to a report by Reporters Without Borders,&nbsp;Saeed Ali Achakzai, a reporter for the Urdu-language Samaa News TV, and Abdul Mateen Achakzai, a reporter for the Pashtun-language Khyber News TV went missing for three days.

The two reporters were called to the&nbsp;Frontier Corps command centre in Chaman, a city near the Afghan border. The two reporters reappeared after three days, but with torture marks on their bodies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-blacklists-pakistani-organiser-of-bollywood-events-in-houston-310374">Also read:&nbsp;India blacklists Pakistani organiser of Bollywood events in Houston</a>

"We were blindfolded and taken to a place where we were handed over to the Anti-Terrorism Force that is operated by the Balochistan Levies, and the ATF took us to the notorious Machh prison and tortured us there to the point that you can see signs of the torture on our back," Abdul Mateen Achakzai said.

"We had been getting WhatsApp messages threatening us with arrest, because the deputy commissioner and paramilitary force commanders were unhappy with our coverage of a public protest against the poor facilities at the quarantine centre," he added.

The&nbsp;Reporters Without Borders issued a report on June 20.

With the report, the RSF officials have called on the Balochistan Chief Minister to start an enquiry into the abduction and torture.

"It is absolutely unacceptable that representatives of the security forces should commit acts of torture simply because they didn`t like what these two journalists reported. We call on Balochistan chief minister Jam Kamal Khan to order a judicial enquiry into those responsible for their abduction so that this shocking press freedom violation does not remain unpunished. The credibility of the rule of law in Pakistan is at stake," said&nbsp;Daniel Bastard, head of RSF`s Asia-Pacific desk.

Daniel also added that that journalists in several areas of Pakistan, especially Chaman region, have been subjected to such tortures earlier too. According to the RSF`s 2020 World Press Freedom Index, Pakistan is ranked 145th out of 180.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two local Pakistan TV reporters were tortured for a coronavirus centre in the southwestern Balochistan province, reported Reporters Without Borders (RWF/RSF). According to a report by Reporters Without Borders, Saeed Ali Achakzai, a reporter for the Urdu-language Samaa News TV, and Abdul Mateen Achakzai, a reporter for the Pashtun-language Khyber News TV went missing for three days.

Two local Pakistan TV reporters were tortured for a coronavirus centre in the southwestern Balochistan province, reported Reporters Without Borders (RWF/RSF). According to a report by Reporters Without Borders, Saeed Ali Achakzai, a reporter for the Urdu-language Samaa News TV, and Abdul Mateen Achakzai, a reporter for the Pashtun-language Khyber News TV went missing for three days. The two reporters were called to the Frontier Corps command centre in Chaman, a city near the Afghan border. The two reporters reappeared after three days, but with torture marks on their bodies. Also read: India blacklists Pakistani organiser of Bollywood events in Houston "We were blindfolded and taken to a place where we were handed over to the Anti-Terrorism Force that is operated by the Balochistan Levies, and the ATF took us to the notorious Machh prison and tortured us there to the point that you can see signs of the torture on our back," Abdul Mateen Achakzai said. "We had been getting WhatsApp messages threatening us with arrest, because the deputy commissioner and paramilitary force commanders were unhappy with our coverage of a public protest against the poor facilities at the quarantine centre," he added. The Reporters Without Borders issued a report on June 20. With the report, the RSF officials have called on the Balochistan Chief Minister to start an enquiry into the abduction and torture. "It is absolutely unacceptable that representatives of the security forces should commit acts of torture simply because they didn`t like what these two journalists reported. We call on Balochistan chief minister Jam Kamal Khan to order a judicial enquiry into those responsible for their abduction so that this shocking press freedom violation does not remain unpunished. The credibility of the rule of law in Pakistan is at stake," said Daniel Bastard, head of RSF`s Asia-Pacific desk. Daniel also added that that journalists in several areas of Pakistan, especially Chaman region, have been subjected to such tortures earlier too. According to the RSF`s 2020 World Press Freedom Index, Pakistan is ranked 145th out of 180. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Pakistani journalists tortured for showing truth in Pakistan's quarantine centre

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Friday he had tested positive for COVID-19, days after holding high profile meetings including one with U.S. special representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad.

"This afternoon I felt a slight fever and immediately quarantined myself at home," Qureshi said on Twitter. He said he felt healthy and would carry on his duties from home.

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In the last few days, Qureshi has had contact with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in parliament and in a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

Qureshi also met Khalilzad on Wednesday when the U.S. special representative travelled to Pakistan to discuss progress on the Afghan peace process.

Pictures released from those meetings showed Qureshi and others wearing face masks.

Pakistan has reported 221,896 cases of the coronavirus and 4,451 deaths. The country has continued to see around 4,000 new cases on a daily basis, despite daily testing numbers falling.

A number of high officials have tested positive for COVID-19 in Pakistan, including Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed and the speaker of the lower house of parliament, Asad Qaiser.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Friday he had tested positive for COVID-19, days after holding high profile meetings including one with U.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Friday he had tested positive for COVID-19, days after holding high profile meetings including one with U.S. special representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad. "This afternoon I felt a slight fever and immediately quarantined myself at home," Qureshi said on Twitter. He said he felt healthy and would carry on his duties from home. Also read: Pakistan's global image continues to worsen, PIA suspension in EU latest fallout In the last few days, Qureshi has had contact with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in parliament and in a cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Qureshi also met Khalilzad on Wednesday when the U.S. special representative travelled to Pakistan to discuss progress on the Afghan peace process. Pictures released from those meetings showed Qureshi and others wearing face masks. Pakistan has reported 221,896 cases of the coronavirus and 4,451 deaths. The country has continued to see around 4,000 new cases on a daily basis, despite daily testing numbers falling. A number of high officials have tested positive for COVID-19 in Pakistan, including Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed and the speaker of the lower house of parliament, Asad Qaiser.

Pakistani foreign minister tests positive for COVID-19

The home ministry has blacklisted Houston based Pakistani event manager Rehan Siddiqui associated with organising Bollywood events in the US. The issue surfaced earlier this year when the link between Rehan Siddiqui's organising of Bollywood events and his funding of anti-India propaganda especially related Kashmir had surfaced. He has been associated with organising Bollywood events in the US, something that had been highlighted by the diaspora.

The matter was raised by Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale from Mumbai South-Central constituency. The MP from Mumbai had written a letter on February 15th to the home minister highlighting the issue requesting him, "to desist Indian artists to collude with anti-India elements in the US".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-global-image-continues-to-worsen-pia-suspension-in-eu-latest-fallout-310309">Pakistan's global image continues to worsen, PIA suspension in EU latest fallout</a>

In a letter tweeted by the MP from MoS Home G Krishna Reddy said, "I have got the issue examined. The MEA has apprised that Rehan Siddiqui... has&nbsp;been blacklisted on the recommendation of the consulate general of India, Houston".&nbsp;

The MHA, via the MEA, has requested Indian mission in Washington DC and consulate general in India in Houston to engage with cultural bodies "bona fide Bollywood affiliates local entities to ensure that appropriate message is conveyed to Indian actors and artists so that they disassociate themselves from such anti-national elements".

The Rehan Siddiqui incident had caused a lot of social media backlash with calls to boycott the event organised by him for Bollywood.

The home ministry has blacklisted Houston based Pakistani event manager Rehan Siddiqui associated with organising Bollywood events in the US. The issue surfaced earlier this year when the link between Rehan Siddiqui's organising of Bollywood events and his funding of anti-India propaganda especially related Kashmir had surfaced.

The home ministry has blacklisted Houston based Pakistani event manager Rehan Siddiqui associated with organising Bollywood events in the US. The issue surfaced earlier this year when the link between Rehan Siddiqui's organising of Bollywood events and his funding of anti-India propaganda especially related Kashmir had surfaced. He has been associated with organising Bollywood events in the US, something that had been highlighted by the diaspora. The matter was raised by Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale from Mumbai South-Central constituency. The MP from Mumbai had written a letter on February 15th to the home minister highlighting the issue requesting him, "to desist Indian artists to collude with anti-India elements in the US". Also read | Pakistan's global image continues to worsen, PIA suspension in EU latest fallout In a letter tweeted by the MP from MoS Home G Krishna Reddy said, "I have got the issue examined. The MEA has apprised that Rehan Siddiqui... has been blacklisted on the recommendation of the consulate general of India, Houston". The MHA, via the MEA, has requested Indian mission in Washington DC and consulate general in India in Houston to engage with cultural bodies "bona fide Bollywood affiliates local entities to ensure that appropriate message is conveyed to Indian actors and artists so that they disassociate themselves from such anti-national elements". The Rehan Siddiqui incident had caused a lot of social media backlash with calls to boycott the event organised by him for Bollywood.

India blacklists Pakistani organiser of Bollywood events in Houston

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly.

"India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-india-of-attacking-pakistan-stock-exchange-offers-no-evidence-309702">Also read:&nbsp;Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence</a>

"We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added.

The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems. The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly. "India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks. Also read: Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence "We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added. The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India. Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

MEA says Pak can't blame India for domestic problems; counters Khan for calling Laden as 'martyr'

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) on Monday night destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border. The operation lasted for two hours from 11 PM to 1 AM and resulted in two Lashkar cadres being killed. This includes LeT commander Abu Bakar from Khyber Agency in Pakistan, whose body was left on the Afghan side.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-pak-border-sanctuary-for-terror-groups-pentagon-310240" hreflang="en">Afghan-Pak border sanctuary for terror groups: Pentagon</a>

During the action, two members of Afghan Security Forces also died and five were injured. The incidence happened close to Durand Line at Spinzara near Durbaba area of Naizan district of Nangarhar. Durand Line is the name of Afghanistan Pakistan border and the area of operation is in the eastern province of Nangarhar that borders Pakistan.

The action came after Lashkar-e-Taiba reportedly established camps in Wargah and Tordarah on the border and were launching attacks on Afghan forces from there. Members of the Taliban were also present during the operation. Sources believe that the causalities on LeT and Taliban side is much higher as the dead and injured were taken by those who were fleeing back to Pakistan in vehicles.

The development comes even as Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various groups" and this includes Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT).

Last month a United Nations report said that about 6,500 Pakistanis foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The report said, most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them.

Meanwhile, concerns have been expressed European Union heads of mission on the escalation of violence. The statement possed by EU mission in Afghanistan said, "The attacks by the Taliban against Afghan National Defence and security forces are undermining the prospect for Intra Afghan negotiation, this must end and a full-fledged ceasefire enter into force"&nbsp;

EU mission strongly condemned the "targeted killings" which have "risen sharply in recent weeks" directed against the clergy, journalist, media workers, human rights defenders. The EU said: "The violence must stop now and an immediate humanitarian ceasefire put in place" and "a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire is a subsequent step that needs to accompany the infra afghan negotiations". 
&nbsp;

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) on Monday night destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border. The operation lasted for two hours from 11 PM to 1 AM and resulted in two Lashkar cadres being killed.

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) on Monday night destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border. The operation lasted for two hours from 11 PM to 1 AM and resulted in two Lashkar cadres being killed. This includes LeT commander Abu Bakar from Khyber Agency in Pakistan, whose body was left on the Afghan side. Also read: Afghan-Pak border sanctuary for terror groups: Pentagon During the action, two members of Afghan Security Forces also died and five were injured. The incidence happened close to Durand Line at Spinzara near Durbaba area of Naizan district of Nangarhar. Durand Line is the name of Afghanistan Pakistan border and the area of operation is in the eastern province of Nangarhar that borders Pakistan. The action came after Lashkar-e-Taiba reportedly established camps in Wargah and Tordarah on the border and were launching attacks on Afghan forces from there. Members of the Taliban were also present during the operation. Sources believe that the causalities on LeT and Taliban side is much higher as the dead and injured were taken by those who were fleeing back to Pakistan in vehicles. The development comes even as Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various groups" and this includes Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT). Last month a United Nations report said that about 6,500 Pakistanis foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The report said, most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them. Meanwhile, concerns have been expressed European Union heads of mission on the escalation of violence. The statement possed by EU mission in Afghanistan said, "The attacks by the Taliban against Afghan National Defence and security forces are undermining the prospect for Intra Afghan negotiation, this must end and a full-fledged ceasefire enter into force" EU mission strongly condemned the "targeted killings" which have "risen sharply in recent weeks" directed against the clergy, journalist, media workers, human rights defenders. The EU said: "The violence must stop now and an immediate humanitarian ceasefire put in place" and "a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire is a subsequent step that needs to accompany the infra afghan negotiations".

Exclusive: Afghan forces destroy LeT camp at Af-Pak border; kill commander

Several international airlines, including Qatar Airways, have initiated a probe against Pakistani employees and grounded them till further notice after authorities reported that as many as 262 pilots were holding fake licences.

Last week, cash-strapped Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) grounded 150 pilots with "dubious licenses" after the preliminary probe report of the Karachi plane crash on May 22 blamed the pilots and the air traffic control for the tragedy that killed 97 people.

Investigators largely blamed the two pilots, who ignored flight protocols and had been discussing the coronavirus outbreak when they first attempted to land the Airbus A320.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistan-suspends-262-pilots-for-fraud-310044/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With this, Pakistan wanted to show the world how it has zero tolerance for unprofessionalism.

But in return it got reminded that the flaws are institutionalised and the authorities are to be blamed.

The United Nations Department of Safety and Security has removed Pakistani airlines from its 'recommended list'. The UN staff in Pakistan has been instructed to cease the use of an Pak-registered air operator.

"Travel by road" is the message by and large.

This is not the only global body to act. The European Union Air Safety Agency has barred Pakistan international airlines' to operate in EU member states -- decision which will last for a period of six months.

The civil aviation authority of the UAE has written directly to the Imran Khan government, citing it wants Pakistan to clarify between 'fake' and 'suspected' cases as it employs pilots who had been issued licenses in Islamabad.

The UAE is worried these pilots may have compromised the integrity of its airlines.&nbsp;

Vietnam is also not taking any chances. It has grounded all Pakistani pilots working for local airlines. It has also asked pakistan to review the profiles of these pilots.

Several international airlines, including Qatar Airways, have initiated a probe against Pakistani employees and grounded them till further notice after authorities reported that as many as 262 pilots were holding fake licences.

Several international airlines, including Qatar Airways, have initiated a probe against Pakistani employees and grounded them till further notice after authorities reported that as many as 262 pilots were holding fake licences. Last week, cash-strapped Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) grounded 150 pilots with "dubious licenses" after the preliminary probe report of the Karachi plane crash on May 22 blamed the pilots and the air traffic control for the tragedy that killed 97 people. Investigators largely blamed the two pilots, who ignored flight protocols and had been discussing the coronavirus outbreak when they first attempted to land the Airbus A320. With this, Pakistan wanted to show the world how it has zero tolerance for unprofessionalism. But in return it got reminded that the flaws are institutionalised and the authorities are to be blamed. The United Nations Department of Safety and Security has removed Pakistani airlines from its 'recommended list'. The UN staff in Pakistan has been instructed to cease the use of an Pak-registered air operator. "Travel by road" is the message by and large. This is not the only global body to act. The European Union Air Safety Agency has barred Pakistan international airlines' to operate in EU member states -- decision which will last for a period of six months. The civil aviation authority of the UAE has written directly to the Imran Khan government, citing it wants Pakistan to clarify between 'fake' and 'suspected' cases as it employs pilots who had been issued licenses in Islamabad. The UAE is worried these pilots may have compromised the integrity of its airlines. Vietnam is also not taking any chances. It has grounded all Pakistani pilots working for local airlines. It has also asked pakistan to review the profiles of these pilots.

International airlines ground Pakistani pilots over reports of 'dubious licences'

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29.&nbsp;Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”.

On June 29, four men carrying grenades attacked the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and killed two guards along with a policeman before they were gunned down by security forces.

India had denied any involvement in the attack on the day of the attack, but Khan went on to say that he had “no doubt” about the country’s involvement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/opposition-lashes-out-at-imran-khan-for-calling-laden-a-martyr-308708" hreflang="en">Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr'</a>

Offering no evidence for his allegation, he claimed that there were intelligence reports of a potential attack in Pakistan, and that his cabinet had been alerted about such threats.

However, the responsibility of the attack was taken by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group from Balochistan.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-terrorists-attack-pak-stock-exchange-in-karachi-309343/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Khan, his country’s intelligence agencies were able to avoid four major terror attacks, out of which two were aimed at Islamabad. He, however, added that it was “not possible” to stop stop such attacks.

The security officials claimed that the gunmen were carrying a heavy supply of armoury, and were planning to take hostages after storming the building.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/pakistan-eulogizing-terrorism-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-bin-laden-a-martyr-308622" hreflang="en">Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr'</a>

Khan referred to the response of Pakistan security forces as a “big victory”, even though three people had died.

In Balochistan, separatists claim that Pakistan has been exploiting the mineral rich area to improve life in the already rich provinces.

Over the course of the last few years, Pakistan has accused India of supporting separatists multiple times, which has been fervently denied by India.

In 2018, the BLA also attacked a Chinese consulate in Karachi.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29. Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29. Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”. On June 29, four men carrying grenades attacked the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and killed two guards along with a policeman before they were gunned down by security forces. India had denied any involvement in the attack on the day of the attack, but Khan went on to say that he had “no doubt” about the country’s involvement. Also read: Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr' Offering no evidence for his allegation, he claimed that there were intelligence reports of a potential attack in Pakistan, and that his cabinet had been alerted about such threats. However, the responsibility of the attack was taken by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group from Balochistan. According to Khan, his country’s intelligence agencies were able to avoid four major terror attacks, out of which two were aimed at Islamabad. He, however, added that it was “not possible” to stop stop such attacks. The security officials claimed that the gunmen were carrying a heavy supply of armoury, and were planning to take hostages after storming the building. Also read: Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr' Khan referred to the response of Pakistan security forces as a “big victory”, even though three people had died. In Balochistan, separatists claim that Pakistan has been exploiting the mineral rich area to improve life in the already rich provinces. Over the course of the last few years, Pakistan has accused India of supporting separatists multiple times, which has been fervently denied by India. In 2018, the BLA also attacked a Chinese consulate in Karachi. (With inputs from Reuters)

Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence

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