The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament.

Hosts and top-ranked England, touted as favourites well before the World Cup began, have been beaten by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the latter the upset of the tournament. Eoin Morgan‘s team now needs to win two of its remaining three matches to guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Their opponents? Australia, New Zealand and India.

The three teams that with them comprise the World Cup’s top four. New Zealand, who they last beat in a World Cup match back in 1992.

What works in England’s favour is that nobody else can win six matches in a row, so this keeps the home team in the green zone. They also have a good net run-rate (1.457). So, even one win out of three could be enough. On Tuesday, Eoin Morgan’s team plays defending champions Australia. A win for England here will be a big boost. A loss will throw the points table open wider.

Australia, second on the World Cup points table, also have a couple tough matches to play. England won’t be easy, New Zealand always punch above their weight and South Africa, their World Cup over, could be the banana peel. By the time Australia meet New Zealand at Lord’s on June 29, the Blackcaps may already have secured passage to the semi-finals if they beat Pakistan three days earlier at Edgbaston.

Kane Williamson‘s team, having just managed to beat West Indies at Old Trafford on Saturday, now need to win one of their remaining three matches – versus Pakistan, Australia and England – to make the semi-finals.

As they showed in tough chases against Bangladesh and South Africa, New Zealand have the stomach for a scrap. Ross Taylor did it against Bangladesh when the target was 245, Williamson stood up brilliantly to haul them to a last-over win when chasing 241 versus South Africa and against West Indies, both of them combined to put up a match-winning total, but just. For sheer drama, these three wins are right up there. New Zealand have escaped defeat thrice, so don’t expect them to buckle against England or India.

India, along with New Zealand the only team to not lose yet, squeezed past Afghanistan in Southampton. West Indies, Bangladesh, England and Sri Lanka remain. Virat Kohli‘s Indian cricket team must win twice to make it to the semis. Despite the loss of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least two matches – he is targeting the England game on June 30 – India have a very fine bowling attack and should make it comfortably. Questions hang over their middle order, which was exposed by Afghanistan’s spinners at The Rose Bowl.

Sri Lanka’s win over England has kept them in the hunt for the semi-finals. On six points, they have to win all three remaining fixtures – versus South Africa, West Indies and India – to get to 12. Two wins will give them 10 points, which may not be enough owing to the top four’s dominance. Other results will have to go their way.

One spot below Sri Lanka are Bangladesh, with five points. Today they play Afghanistan, who beat them at last year’s Asia Cup, India and Pakistan. If they beat Afghanistan in Southampton, Bangladesh will move to seven points. Getting past India will be tough, which means that their clash with Pakistan at Lord’s on July 5 could be make-or-break.

Pakistan, after beating South Africa by 49 runs at Lord’s, have five points. They still need to beat New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to finish on 11. For a team that oscillates from the awesome to the absurd, it is a nearly impossible task. But Mickey Arthur, their coach, believes it is possible, with a little help from other teams.

As things look today, Pakistan are competing with one of Australia and England for a spot in the final four. It may not require net run-rate, because England and Australia have even points to Pakistan’s odd.

West Indies, with just three points and games versus India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to go, cannot make the semi-finals. South Africa and Afghanistan are eliminated. Each could do damage to others, provided they really lift their games.

Did anyone say this is a dull World Cup?

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament.

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament. Hosts and top-ranked England, touted as favourites well before the World Cup began, have been beaten by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the latter the upset of the tournament. Eoin Morgan‘s team now needs to win two of its remaining three matches to guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Their opponents? Australia, New Zealand and India. The three teams that with them comprise the World Cup’s top four. New Zealand, who they last beat in a World Cup match back in 1992. What works in England’s favour is that nobody else can win six matches in a row, so this keeps the home team in the green zone. They also have a good net run-rate (1.457). So, even one win out of three could be enough. On Tuesday, Eoin Morgan’s team plays defending champions Australia. A win for England here will be a big boost. A loss will throw the points table open wider. Australia, second on the World Cup points table, also have a couple tough matches to play. England won’t be easy, New Zealand always punch above their weight and South Africa, their World Cup over, could be the banana peel. By the time Australia meet New Zealand at Lord’s on June 29, the Blackcaps may already have secured passage to the semi-finals if they beat Pakistan three days earlier at Edgbaston. Kane Williamson‘s team, having just managed to beat West Indies at Old Trafford on Saturday, now need to win one of their remaining three matches – versus Pakistan, Australia and England – to make the semi-finals. As they showed in tough chases against Bangladesh and South Africa, New Zealand have the stomach for a scrap. Ross Taylor did it against Bangladesh when the target was 245, Williamson stood up brilliantly to haul them to a last-over win when chasing 241 versus South Africa and against West Indies, both of them combined to put up a match-winning total, but just. For sheer drama, these three wins are right up there. New Zealand have escaped defeat thrice, so don’t expect them to buckle against England or India. India, along with New Zealand the only team to not lose yet, squeezed past Afghanistan in Southampton. West Indies, Bangladesh, England and Sri Lanka remain. Virat Kohli‘s Indian cricket team must win twice to make it to the semis. Despite the loss of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least two matches – he is targeting the England game on June 30 – India have a very fine bowling attack and should make it comfortably. Questions hang over their middle order, which was exposed by Afghanistan’s spinners at The Rose Bowl. Sri Lanka’s win over England has kept them in the hunt for the semi-finals. On six points, they have to win all three remaining fixtures – versus South Africa, West Indies and India – to get to 12. Two wins will give them 10 points, which may not be enough owing to the top four’s dominance. Other results will have to go their way. One spot below Sri Lanka are Bangladesh, with five points. Today they play Afghanistan, who beat them at last year’s Asia Cup, India and Pakistan. If they beat Afghanistan in Southampton, Bangladesh will move to seven points. Getting past India will be tough, which means that their clash with Pakistan at Lord’s on July 5 could be make-or-break. Pakistan, after beating South Africa by 49 runs at Lord’s, have five points. They still need to beat New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to finish on 11. For a team that oscillates from the awesome to the absurd, it is a nearly impossible task. But Mickey Arthur, their coach, believes it is possible, with a little help from other teams. As things look today, Pakistan are competing with one of Australia and England for a spot in the final four. It may not require net run-rate, because England and Australia have even points to Pakistan’s odd. West Indies, with just three points and games versus India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to go, cannot make the semi-finals. South Africa and Afghanistan are eliminated. Each could do damage to others, provided they really lift their games. Did anyone say this is a dull World Cup?

Cricket World Cup semi-final scenario: Pakistan stay alive, England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four

Haris Sohail smashed a rapid-fire 89 as Pakistan ended South Africa's World Cup hopes with a comfortable 49-run win at Lord's on Sunday.

Sohail's dominant 59-ball knock and a tidy half-century from Babar Azam helped Pakistan reach 308-7, a total that South Africa never threatened to surpass.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/close-all-exit-doors-imran-tahirs-unique-celebration-allows-meme-experts-to-show-creativity-229778">'Close all exit doors': Imran Tahir's unique celebration allows meme experts to show creativity</a>

South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis offered their only real resistance with a 79-ball 63 in another poor batting display from his side.

Wahab Riaz and Shadab Khan took three wickets each as Pakistan condemned South Africa to a fifth defeat of the tournament that left them languishing ninth in the 10-team table.

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With that loss, South Africa are out of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> semi-final contention. 
 
Pakistan, meanwhile, move up to No.7. Their knockout hopes are very much alive. 
 
Latest standings ⬇️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeHaveWeWill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeHaveWeWill</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/WmoHhzvdCN">pic.twitter.com/WmoHhzvdCN</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1142852444558434305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Watch the winning moment:

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The Pakistan team salute their adoring fans as they walk off 👋<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeHaveWeWill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeHaveWeWill</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/BILi2DmlCy">pic.twitter.com/BILi2DmlCy</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1142851351799635969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While Pakistan's slim hopes of reaching the knockout stages stayed alive, South Africa, with three points from their opening seven matches, are unable to secure a spot in the top four - who all advance to the semi-finals.

Match in numbers:
<img alt="Match 30" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f9635c2-88d1-43ec-b90d-0c6c8dff2d7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2030.jpg" />
&nbsp;

Haris Sohail smashed a rapid-fire 89 as Pakistan ended South Africa's World Cup hopes with a comfortable 49-run win at Lord's on Sunday. Sohail's dominant 59-ball knock and a tidy half-century from Babar Azam helped Pakistan reach 308-7, a total that South Africa never threatened to surpass.

Haris Sohail smashed a rapid-fire 89 as Pakistan ended South Africa's World Cup hopes with a comfortable 49-run win at Lord's on Sunday. Sohail's dominant 59-ball knock and a tidy half-century from Babar Azam helped Pakistan reach 308-7, a total that South Africa never threatened to surpass. Also Read: 'Close all exit doors': Imran Tahir's unique celebration allows meme experts to show creativity South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis offered their only real resistance with a 79-ball 63 in another poor batting display from his side. Wahab Riaz and Shadab Khan took three wickets each as Pakistan condemned South Africa to a fifth defeat of the tournament that left them languishing ninth in the 10-team table. With that loss, South Africa are out of #CWC19 semi-final contention. Pakistan, meanwhile, move up to No.7. Their knockout hopes are very much alive. Latest standings ⬇️ #WeHaveWeWill | #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/WmoHhzvdCN — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 23, 2019 × Watch the winning moment: The Pakistan team salute their adoring fans as they walk off 👋#WeHaveWeWill | #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/BILi2DmlCy — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 23, 2019 × While Pakistan's slim hopes of reaching the knockout stages stayed alive, South Africa, with three points from their opening seven matches, are unable to secure a spot in the top four - who all advance to the semi-finals. Match in numbers:

Pakistan beat South Africa by 49 runs to end Proteas' World Cup dream

Imran Tahir took two wickets during a World Cup match between South Africa and&nbsp;Pakistan on Sunday at Lord's. He dismissed Imam-ul-Haq (44) and Fakhar Zaman (44) to become South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament.&nbsp;

He went past Allan Donald, who had 38 wickets to his name.

Tahir has a habit of running around the ground to celebrate every wicket he takes in any form of cricket.&nbsp;

Tahir's trademark celebration allowed meme experts to have a field day on Twitter.&nbsp;

Here are some of the hilarious reactions on Tahir's unique celebration.&nbsp;

One fan posted a photo of Tahir having a sprint alongside Usain Bolt and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir after taking the 2nd wicket. #PakvsSA #CWC19".

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No body: 
 
Literally nobody: 
 
Imran Tahir after taking wicket or catch: <a href="https://t.co/ltPRJWdtGw">pic.twitter.com/ltPRJWdtGw</a>
— Asad. 🇵🇰 (@GoStudyAsad) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoStudyAsad/status/1142753641784369153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;One user posted a series of photos and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir has reached Kashmir after taking a wicket."

"Imran Tahir has reached Karachi sea view after taking the wicket of Fakhar Zaman and Imam Ul Haq #PAKvSA #CWC19 #PakvSA," one fan tweeted.

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Imran Tahir has reached Karachi seaview after taking wicket of Fakhar Zaman &amp; Imam Ul Haq<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/NraPvtTSPA">pic.twitter.com/NraPvtTSPA</a>
— Aamir Bangash (@aamirsayss) <a href="https://twitter.com/aamirsayss/status/1142753993841696768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Imran Tahir has reached kashmir after taking wicket <a href="https://t.co/1vL6oGD8PR">pic.twitter.com/1vL6oGD8PR</a>
— Mazhar Ul Islam (@Chinnttuuu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chinnttuuu/status/1142787599775522819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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One user posted, "Breaking: ICC ordered to close all exit doors at Lord`s stadium so Imran Tahir doesn`t run out of the stadium after taking a wicket."

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Imran Tahir has mistakenly crossed Kashmir’s border while celebrating today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/w59puINwky">pic.twitter.com/w59puINwky</a>
— TheBrownGuy ®️ (@Thebrownguy__) <a href="https://twitter.com/Thebrownguy__/status/1142801895725158402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The nearest traffic officer must have stopped Tahir before reaching the nearest Expressway #CWC19 #PAKvSA," one fan tweeted.

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BREAKING NEWS: Imran Tahir spotted on the moon?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketWorldCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketWorldCup2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/LoyL9vDfYU">pic.twitter.com/LoyL9vDfYU</a>
— ai (@insideyourveinz) <a href="https://twitter.com/insideyourveinz/status/1142801769820545025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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One Twitter user posted photos of chicken and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir as a chicken."

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Imran Tahir after taking the catch 😆😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/tq3YJVY9TN">pic.twitter.com/tq3YJVY9TN</a>
— Syed Ali Sarim 🇵🇰🇵🇰 (@imAviator) <a href="https://twitter.com/imAviator/status/1142789191547465728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Imran tahir after taking 2nd wicket.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvsSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/2x1l19wGFy">pic.twitter.com/2x1l19wGFy</a>
— O O P S (@koi_to_rok_lo_) <a href="https://twitter.com/koi_to_rok_lo_/status/1142750582861697029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After opting to bat first, Pakistan was able to score 308 runs in the allotted fifty overs, owing to Haris Sohail's knock of 89 runs.

Imran Tahir took two wickets during a World Cup match between South Africa and Pakistan on Sunday at Lord's. He dismissed Imam-ul-Haq (44) and Fakhar Zaman (44) to become South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament.

Imran Tahir took two wickets during a World Cup match between South Africa and Pakistan on Sunday at Lord's. He dismissed Imam-ul-Haq (44) and Fakhar Zaman (44) to become South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament. He went past Allan Donald, who had 38 wickets to his name. Tahir has a habit of running around the ground to celebrate every wicket he takes in any form of cricket. Tahir's trademark celebration allowed meme experts to have a field day on Twitter. Here are some of the hilarious reactions on Tahir's unique celebration. One fan posted a photo of Tahir having a sprint alongside Usain Bolt and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir after taking the 2nd wicket. #PakvsSA #CWC19". No body: Literally nobody: Imran Tahir after taking wicket or catch: pic.twitter.com/ltPRJWdtGw — Asad. 🇵🇰 (@GoStudyAsad) June 23, 2019 × One user posted a series of photos and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir has reached Kashmir after taking a wicket." "Imran Tahir has reached Karachi sea view after taking the wicket of Fakhar Zaman and Imam Ul Haq #PAKvSA #CWC19 #PakvSA," one fan tweeted. Imran Tahir has reached Karachi seaview after taking wicket of Fakhar Zaman & Imam Ul Haq#PAKvSA #CWC19 #PakvSA pic.twitter.com/NraPvtTSPA — Aamir Bangash (@aamirsayss) June 23, 2019 × Imran Tahir has reached kashmir after taking wicket pic.twitter.com/1vL6oGD8PR — Mazhar Ul Islam (@Chinnttuuu) June 23, 2019 × One user posted, "Breaking: ICC ordered to close all exit doors at Lord`s stadium so Imran Tahir doesn`t run out of the stadium after taking a wicket." Imran Tahir has mistakenly crossed Kashmir’s border while celebrating today. #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/w59puINwky — TheBrownGuy ®️ (@Thebrownguy__) June 23, 2019 × "The nearest traffic officer must have stopped Tahir before reaching the nearest Expressway #CWC19 #PAKvSA," one fan tweeted. BREAKING NEWS: Imran Tahir spotted on the moon?! #PAKvSA #CricketWorldCup2019 pic.twitter.com/LoyL9vDfYU — ai (@insideyourveinz) June 23, 2019 × One Twitter user posted photos of chicken and captioned the post as "Imran Tahir as a chicken." Imran Tahir after taking the catch 😆😂😂#PAKvSA #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/tq3YJVY9TN — Syed Ali Sarim 🇵🇰🇵🇰 (@imAviator) June 23, 2019 × Imran tahir after taking 2nd wicket.#PakvsSA #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/2x1l19wGFy — O O P S (@koi_to_rok_lo_) June 23, 2019 × After opting to bat first, Pakistan was able to score 308 runs in the allotted fifty overs, owing to Haris Sohail's knock of 89 runs.

'Close all exit doors': Imran Tahir's unique celebration allows meme experts to show creativity

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has claimed that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fails-to-complete-points-given-by-terror-financing-watchdog-fatf-report-227563">country is doing its best </a>and utilising all available sources to eliminate terrorism from its soil, adding that Islamabad has been moving towards attaining sustainable peace and stability.

Bajwa, while speaking at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London on Friday, suggested that all countries should come forward and cooperate with each other in "wiping out terrorism" as it is a common enemy for all.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tells-pakistan-to-take-credible-verifiable-irreversible-measures-on-terror-financing-after-fatf-relief-229407">India tells Pakistan to take 'credible' measures on terror financing after FATF rap&nbsp;</a>

"We are doing our best, utilising all available sources to wipe out the enemies of peace and prosperity but it is fact that peace and stability in South Asia was dependent on the resolution of conflicts and disputes in the region", The Nation quoted Bajwa.

"We suggest to all countries especially our neighbouring nations that come forward and cooperate with each other in wiping out terrorism as it is a common enemy. We have suffered a lot in the past and would not like to be suffered in future. We are pleased to let you know at this platform that Pakistan has been moving towards attaining sustainable peace and stability," Bajwa said while accepting that Pakistan has suffered in the past due to terrorism.

He opined, "Improved security offers foreign investment in Pakistan, a pivot to regional connectivity. However, the future of enduring peace and stability in South Asia hinges on the ability to resolve issues and long pending disputes within the region."

Bajwa, who is on a five-day visit in London, said, "A better security will pave the way for foreign investment in Pakistan and in fact, the foreign investment plays a pivotal role for regional coordination."

The Pakistan Army Chief`s comments come a day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-gets-fatf-rap-after-failing-to-meet-deadline-twice-stays-on-greylist-229332">Financial Action Task Force (FATF) </a>on told the country to "swiftly" complete its action plan to curb terror financing by October or face consequences. The warning was made in a statement issued by the financial watchdog following a plenary meeting in Orlando.

Pakistan is currently on the "grey list" of countries that have been inadequate in curbing money laundering and terror financing.

The country has already missed two prior deadlines -- in January and May 2019 -- to complete their action plan.

"Pakistan should continue to work on implementing its action plan to address its strategic deficiencies. FATF expresses concern that not only did Pakistan fail to complete its action plan items with January deadlines, it also failed to complete its action plan items due May 2019," a statement issued by FATF outlined.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has claimed that the country is doing its best and utilising all available sources to eliminate terrorism from its soil, adding that Islamabad has been moving towards attaining sustainable peace and stability.

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has claimed that the country is doing its best and utilising all available sources to eliminate terrorism from its soil, adding that Islamabad has been moving towards attaining sustainable peace and stability. Bajwa, while speaking at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London on Friday, suggested that all countries should come forward and cooperate with each other in "wiping out terrorism" as it is a common enemy for all. Also read: India tells Pakistan to take 'credible' measures on terror financing after FATF rap "We are doing our best, utilising all available sources to wipe out the enemies of peace and prosperity but it is fact that peace and stability in South Asia was dependent on the resolution of conflicts and disputes in the region", The Nation quoted Bajwa. "We suggest to all countries especially our neighbouring nations that come forward and cooperate with each other in wiping out terrorism as it is a common enemy. We have suffered a lot in the past and would not like to be suffered in future. We are pleased to let you know at this platform that Pakistan has been moving towards attaining sustainable peace and stability," Bajwa said while accepting that Pakistan has suffered in the past due to terrorism. He opined, "Improved security offers foreign investment in Pakistan, a pivot to regional connectivity. However, the future of enduring peace and stability in South Asia hinges on the ability to resolve issues and long pending disputes within the region." Bajwa, who is on a five-day visit in London, said, "A better security will pave the way for foreign investment in Pakistan and in fact, the foreign investment plays a pivotal role for regional coordination." The Pakistan Army Chief`s comments come a day after the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on told the country to "swiftly" complete its action plan to curb terror financing by October or face consequences. The warning was made in a statement issued by the financial watchdog following a plenary meeting in Orlando. Pakistan is currently on the "grey list" of countries that have been inadequate in curbing money laundering and terror financing. The country has already missed two prior deadlines -- in January and May 2019 -- to complete their action plan. "Pakistan should continue to work on implementing its action plan to address its strategic deficiencies. FATF expresses concern that not only did Pakistan fail to complete its action plan items with January deadlines, it also failed to complete its action plan items due May 2019," a statement issued by FATF outlined.

Day after FATF warning, Pakistan Army Chief claims 'country doing best to wipe out terrorism'

Dozens of Afghan political leaders have attended a conference in neighbouring Pakistan to discuss possible ways to achieve peace in the war-torn country.

US and Taliban to hold talks in Doha

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-at-the-cusp-of-achieving-peace-general-bajwa-229637">Pakistan</a>'s Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-qureshi-briefs-pompeo-about-addressing-fatf-concerns-foreign-office-228266">Shah Mahmood Qureshi</a> on Saturday called for trust to be rebuilt between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan began a new initiative to bolster a faltering peace process aiming to end Afghanistan's lengthy civil war.

Pakistan on Saturday hosted a conference to bring together more than 50 Afghan leaders, including politicians and tribal elders, but there were no representatives of the Afghan Taliban militants, who have been fighting for years to expel foreign forces and defeat the US-backed government in Kabul.

Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been strained in recent years amid long-standing allegations by Kabul and Washington that Pakistan has been sheltering the Taliban militants since US-led forces removed them from power in 2001, something Islamabad denies. Pakistan says its influence over the Taliban has waned over the years.

The United States has been pushing Pakistan to use its influence with the Taliban to open direct negotiations with the Kabul government, which the Taliban regard as an illegitimate foreign-imposed regime.

Qureshi, speaking in the Pakistani town of Bhurban in the Punjab province, said Islamabad wants a negotiated peace settlement between all sides as he said Pakistan continues to suffer security problems due to instability in Afghanistan.

"For far too long, the vicious circle of mistrust, often fed into by our common enemies, has affected our relationship. The blame-game has not helped either of us," Qureshi said, according to his speech notes released by the foreign ministry.

"It is indispensable to move away from this negative paradigm. It is incumbent upon the leadership of the two countries to take practical steps to build mutual trust and confidence."

Among the delegates was former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who earlier this year announced plans to contest the delayed presidential elections. Senators and members of Afghanistan's parliament were also there, according to Pakistani English-language Dawn newspaper.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is due to visit Pakistan next week, where he is expected to meet top Pakistani civilian and military leaders in talks set to focus on the Afghanistan peace process.

China on Thursday said that it had recently played host to a Taliban delegation as part of efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called for trust to be rebuilt between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan began a new initiative to bolster a faltering peace process aiming to end Afghanistan's lengthy civil war.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called for trust to be rebuilt between Islamabad and Kabul as Pakistan began a new initiative to bolster a faltering peace process aiming to end Afghanistan's lengthy civil war. Pakistan on Saturday hosted a conference to bring together more than 50 Afghan leaders, including politicians and tribal elders, but there were no representatives of the Afghan Taliban militants, who have been fighting for years to expel foreign forces and defeat the US-backed government in Kabul. Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been strained in recent years amid long-standing allegations by Kabul and Washington that Pakistan has been sheltering the Taliban militants since US-led forces removed them from power in 2001, something Islamabad denies. Pakistan says its influence over the Taliban has waned over the years. The United States has been pushing Pakistan to use its influence with the Taliban to open direct negotiations with the Kabul government, which the Taliban regard as an illegitimate foreign-imposed regime. Qureshi, speaking in the Pakistani town of Bhurban in the Punjab province, said Islamabad wants a negotiated peace settlement between all sides as he said Pakistan continues to suffer security problems due to instability in Afghanistan. "For far too long, the vicious circle of mistrust, often fed into by our common enemies, has affected our relationship. The blame-game has not helped either of us," Qureshi said, according to his speech notes released by the foreign ministry. "It is indispensable to move away from this negative paradigm. It is incumbent upon the leadership of the two countries to take practical steps to build mutual trust and confidence." Among the delegates was former Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who earlier this year announced plans to contest the delayed presidential elections. Senators and members of Afghanistan's parliament were also there, according to Pakistani English-language Dawn newspaper. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is due to visit Pakistan next week, where he is expected to meet top Pakistani civilian and military leaders in talks set to focus on the Afghanistan peace process. China on Thursday said that it had recently played host to a Taliban delegation as part of efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

Pakistan foreign minister says trust must be rebuilt with Afghanistan

Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Saturday said the country is at the cusp of achieving peace, which can be complemented through meaningful international partnership.&nbsp;

Addressing a seminar on 'Pakistan's Regional Security Perspective' at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London, Bajwa said the future of enduring peace and stability in South Asia "hinges on the ability to resolve issues and long pending disputes within the region".

"Pakistan is at the cusp of achieving sustainable, irreversible, enduring peace and stability. This can be complemented through meaningful international partnership, support and will to take on regional challenges," the army chief, who is in London on an official visit, said.

Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Saturday said the country is at the cusp of achieving peace, which can be complemented through meaningful international partnership.

Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Saturday said the country is at the cusp of achieving peace, which can be complemented through meaningful international partnership. Addressing a seminar on 'Pakistan's Regional Security Perspective' at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London, Bajwa said the future of enduring peace and stability in South Asia "hinges on the ability to resolve issues and long pending disputes within the region". "Pakistan is at the cusp of achieving sustainable, irreversible, enduring peace and stability. This can be complemented through meaningful international partnership, support and will to take on regional challenges," the army chief, who is in London on an official visit, said.

Pakistan at the cusp of achieving peace: General Bajwa

A Pakistan think-tank organises the conference. Gulbuddin Hekmatayar and other afghan leaders will attend this conference in Pakistan. This meet comes ahead of Afghanistan President's visit.

Afghan President To Visit Pakistan

There is a serious threat to the life of jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif due to lack of medical care, his daughter Maryam said Saturday as she vowed to not let his father meet the fate of ex-Egyptian President Mohammad Morsi.

Morsi, who became the first democratically elected President of Egypt in 2012 and was ousted a year later by the military, died on Monday after fainting during a session in court.

"Nawaz Sharif's condition is not stable. Doctors at the jail even did not know that he had suffered a heart attack this week and offered no treatment to him," Maryam said in a press conference here.

Sharif, 69, is serving a seven-year imprisonment in Al-Azizia corruption case at the Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore.

Maryam said the doctors were "reluctant" to treat the Sharif as it is a high profile and complicated case.

She said 80 per cent of Sharif's medical problems were not being highlighted in his reports as every word is being scrutinised by the jail authorities.

"Troponin levels in Nawaz's blood are found to be high because of heart attack...We will not let the three-time prime minister meet the fate of Morsi. Neither Pakistan is Egypt nor Nawaz Sharif is Mohammad Morsi," Maryam said, adding that she would go to any extend to get justice for her father.

She said it is not that her father's treatment is not possible, but the problem is doctors are "very much reluctant" to treat Sharif as it is a high profile and complicated case.

"That is why we had requested the court for his treatment abroad where doctors are familiar with his medical history," Maryam said.

On Thursday, the Islamabad High Court had rejected Sharif's plea seeking bail on medical grounds.

Maryam also said that on the direction of "puppet prime minister Imran Khan" Nawaz Sharif's conversation with his family members and party leaders in jail were bugged.

Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018 when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case.

Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them were politically motivated.

On March 26, the Supreme Court suspended Sharif's seven-year sentence in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case and granted him bail for six weeks with a condition that he would not leave Pakistan.

In May, the apex court rejected his review petition seeking bail on medical grounds and permission to go abroad for medical treatment.

The apex court ordered him to surrender before the court as soon as his interim bail period ended. The bench, however, suggested his counsel to approach appropriate forum to get relief.&nbsp;

There is a serious threat to the life of jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif due to lack of medical care, his daughter Maryam said Saturday as she vowed to not let his father meet the fate of ex-Egyptian President Mohammad Morsi.

There is a serious threat to the life of jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif due to lack of medical care, his daughter Maryam said Saturday as she vowed to not let his father meet the fate of ex-Egyptian President Mohammad Morsi. Morsi, who became the first democratically elected President of Egypt in 2012 and was ousted a year later by the military, died on Monday after fainting during a session in court. "Nawaz Sharif's condition is not stable. Doctors at the jail even did not know that he had suffered a heart attack this week and offered no treatment to him," Maryam said in a press conference here. Sharif, 69, is serving a seven-year imprisonment in Al-Azizia corruption case at the Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore. Maryam said the doctors were "reluctant" to treat the Sharif as it is a high profile and complicated case. She said 80 per cent of Sharif's medical problems were not being highlighted in his reports as every word is being scrutinised by the jail authorities. "Troponin levels in Nawaz's blood are found to be high because of heart attack...We will not let the three-time prime minister meet the fate of Morsi. Neither Pakistan is Egypt nor Nawaz Sharif is Mohammad Morsi," Maryam said, adding that she would go to any extend to get justice for her father. She said it is not that her father's treatment is not possible, but the problem is doctors are "very much reluctant" to treat Sharif as it is a high profile and complicated case. "That is why we had requested the court for his treatment abroad where doctors are familiar with his medical history," Maryam said. On Thursday, the Islamabad High Court had rejected Sharif's plea seeking bail on medical grounds. Maryam also said that on the direction of "puppet prime minister Imran Khan" Nawaz Sharif's conversation with his family members and party leaders in jail were bugged. Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018 when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case. Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them were politically motivated. On March 26, the Supreme Court suspended Sharif's seven-year sentence in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case and granted him bail for six weeks with a condition that he would not leave Pakistan. In May, the apex court rejected his review petition seeking bail on medical grounds and permission to go abroad for medical treatment. The apex court ordered him to surrender before the court as soon as his interim bail period ended. The bench, however, suggested his counsel to approach appropriate forum to get relief.

Nawaz Sharif won't become Morsi of Pakistan: Maryam

Pakistan Remains In FATF Greylist, Survives Blacklist Scare. FATF has decided to keep Pakistan in its greylist,. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan Remains In FATF Greylist, Survives Blacklist Scare

Nepalese nationals must have visa if they are entering India from Pakistan, China, Hong Kong and Macau, according to a notice issued by the Nepalese Embassy in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Similarly, Nepalese nationals travelling to Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and Lebanon, are required to acquire No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the respective Nepalese Embassies, it said.&nbsp;

To get the NOC, a traveller is required to submit an application to the respective embassy along with relevant documents, including employment permit, the notice stated.&nbsp;

The notice said a citizen of Nepal must have a visa for India if he or she is entering India from China, Macau, Hong Kong and Pakistan.

There are 4 million Nepalese working and studying in India, according to the Nepal foreign ministry.

Nepalese nationals must have visa if they are entering India from Pakistan, China, Hong Kong and Macau, according to a notice issued by the Nepalese Embassy in New Delhi.

Nepalese nationals must have visa if they are entering India from Pakistan, China, Hong Kong and Macau, according to a notice issued by the Nepalese Embassy in New Delhi. Similarly, Nepalese nationals travelling to Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and Lebanon, are required to acquire No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the respective Nepalese Embassies, it said. To get the NOC, a traveller is required to submit an application to the respective embassy along with relevant documents, including employment permit, the notice stated. The notice said a citizen of Nepal must have a visa for India if he or she is entering India from China, Macau, Hong Kong and Pakistan. There are 4 million Nepalese working and studying in India, according to the Nepal foreign ministry.

Nepalese nationals require visa to enter India via Pakistan, China

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

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

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

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

Pakistan's report says India responds to Pak's call for talks. Pak media wrongly interprets PM Modi's letter to Pak PM. Indian foreign ministry strongly slams Pakistan for false report.Pakistan is desperate as it's economy is in shambles.

Pak Media: India want talks; India rejects Pak's claim

FATF to announce if Pakistan will be in it's greylist or blacklist. Pakistan is currently facing $10 Bn loss annually. Watch this video to know more.

Big Decision On Pakistan: FATF's Greylist Or Blacklist?

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

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

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

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-on-grey-list-or-black-list-fatf-to-announce-decision-on-friday-229029">Pakistan attaches great importance</a> to projects taken under the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Prime Minister Imran Khan said Thursday, as he expressed satisfaction at Islamabad's "robust" economic partnership with Beijing.

The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of Chinese President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

India has been boycotting the BRI to protest over the CPEC being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Vice Chair of the 12th NPC Foreign Affairs Committee and head of the Advisory Committee of the BRI Initiative International Think Tank of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Zhao Baige called on Prime Minister Khan on Thursday.

"It was a matter of great satisfaction to note that all-weather and time-tested Pak-China friendship is transforming into a robust economic partnership," Khan said while welcoming Zhao and her delegation.

''Pakistan attaches great importance to the CPEC projects and all efforts were being made to further streamline and improve coordination at all levels, especially when the project has entered into its second phase with the inclusion of critical areas such as agriculture, socio-economic development,'' Pakistan PM&nbsp;said in a statement.

Khan wanted to learn from Chinese experience and expertise in different sectors.

He said a special cell was being established at the Prime Minister's Office to ensure seamless coordination between businesses of public and private sectors.

Zhao, in her remarks, said China will continue extending all possible cooperation to Pakistan in areas such as agriculture, health, housing and socio-economic development.

The visit of Zhao and her delegation came soon after the visit by General Han Weiguo, Commander People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Forces, who left on Wednesday after paying an official visit.

Pakistan attaches great importance to projects taken under the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Prime Minister Imran Khan said Thursday, as he expressed satisfaction at Islamabad's "robust" economic partnership with Beijing.

Pakistan attaches great importance to projects taken under the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Prime Minister Imran Khan said Thursday, as he expressed satisfaction at Islamabad's "robust" economic partnership with Beijing. The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of Chinese President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India has been boycotting the BRI to protest over the CPEC being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Vice Chair of the 12th NPC Foreign Affairs Committee and head of the Advisory Committee of the BRI Initiative International Think Tank of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Zhao Baige called on Prime Minister Khan on Thursday. "It was a matter of great satisfaction to note that all-weather and time-tested Pak-China friendship is transforming into a robust economic partnership," Khan said while welcoming Zhao and her delegation. ''Pakistan attaches great importance to the CPEC projects and all efforts were being made to further streamline and improve coordination at all levels, especially when the project has entered into its second phase with the inclusion of critical areas such as agriculture, socio-economic development,'' Pakistan PM said in a statement. Khan wanted to learn from Chinese experience and expertise in different sectors. He said a special cell was being established at the Prime Minister's Office to ensure seamless coordination between businesses of public and private sectors. Zhao, in her remarks, said China will continue extending all possible cooperation to Pakistan in areas such as agriculture, health, housing and socio-economic development. The visit of Zhao and her delegation came soon after the visit by General Han Weiguo, Commander People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Forces, who left on Wednesday after paying an official visit.

Pakistan attaches great importance to projects taken under CPEC: Imran Khan

At least three people were killed and several others injured when a passenger train rammed into a freight train in Pakistan's Sindh province on Thursday, officials said.

The driver of the Jinnah Express and two of his assistants were killed in the accident, and the injured people have been admitted to a hospital here, they said.

Due to the wreckage, railway traffic was suspended for several hours, stranding passengers at the Hyderabad and the Kotri railway stations.

The Lahore-bound Jinnah Express, which was travelling from Pakistan's port city Karachi, rammed into the stationary goods train from behind, according to a senior official said.

Three wagons of the Yusufwala-bound freight train, which was carrying coal, were derailed due to the impact, the official said.

Personnel and machinery were pressed into service to clear debris to restore train movement and several teams were engaged in rescue operations.

The freight train was detached from the affected wagons and taken to a railway station, the official said.&nbsp;

Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed has issued instructions for the matter to be investigated and the probe to be completed within 24 hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;The minister&nbsp;

At least three people were killed and several others injured when a passenger train rammed into a freight train in Pakistan's Sindh province on Thursday, officials said.

At least three people were killed and several others injured when a passenger train rammed into a freight train in Pakistan's Sindh province on Thursday, officials said. The driver of the Jinnah Express and two of his assistants were killed in the accident, and the injured people have been admitted to a hospital here, they said. Due to the wreckage, railway traffic was suspended for several hours, stranding passengers at the Hyderabad and the Kotri railway stations. The Lahore-bound Jinnah Express, which was travelling from Pakistan's port city Karachi, rammed into the stationary goods train from behind, according to a senior official said. Three wagons of the Yusufwala-bound freight train, which was carrying coal, were derailed due to the impact, the official said. Personnel and machinery were pressed into service to clear debris to restore train movement and several teams were engaged in rescue operations. The freight train was detached from the affected wagons and taken to a railway station, the official said. Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed has issued instructions for the matter to be investigated and the probe to be completed within 24 hours. The minister

Three killed, several injured in Pakistan train accident

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government on Saturday hailed the spiritual and ancient discipline.&nbsp;

"The benefits of yoga provide both instant gratification and lasting transformation. In the fitness world, both are extremely important. Yoga can change your physical and mental capacity quickly while preparing the mind and body for long-term health," tweeted the Pakistan government.

The International Day of Yoga is celebrated on June 21 every year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in yoga earlier today at Ranchi on Prabhat Tara ground, where he led close to 30, 000 people in the morning session to mark the occasion.&nbsp;

The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated all over the world on June 21, 2015, when over 30,000 people including Modi performed yoga at the Rajpath in New Delhi.&nbsp;

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government on Saturday hailed the spiritual and ancient discipline. "The benefits of yoga provide both instant gratification and lasting transformation.

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government on Saturday hailed the spiritual and ancient discipline. "The benefits of yoga provide both instant gratification and lasting transformation. In the fitness world, both are extremely important. Yoga can change your physical and mental capacity quickly while preparing the mind and body for long-term health," tweeted the Pakistan government. The International Day of Yoga is celebrated on June 21 every year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in yoga earlier today at Ranchi on Prabhat Tara ground, where he led close to 30, 000 people in the morning session to mark the occasion. The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated all over the world on June 21, 2015, when over 30,000 people including Modi performed yoga at the Rajpath in New Delhi.

On Yoga Day, Pakistan hails the ancient practice

Pakistan's Army Chief Is Part Of The National Development Council That Will Decide Policy Imran Khan makes Pakistan's Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa a member of National Development Council (NDC). This council will take policy decisions. What's the army doing in a policy council? Is Pakistan blatantly involving the army in everything? Is Pakistan a pseudo-democracy run by military heads? Palki summarises the development

Gravitas: Pak military to dictate economic policy?

Military Is The Biggest Business Conglomerate In Pakistan. It Runs Over 50 Commercial Entities Over 50 commerical entities worth $20 Billion, Pakistan's military has its fingers in every pie. In fact, the military is the biggest business conglomerate in the country. Palki decodes the extending reach of Pakistan's army

Gravitas: From bread to real estates: The extending reach of Pakistan army

Evolution Of Pakistan's Military Is it an army or a corporate? Pakistan army's business interests exceed $100 Billion. Here's a report charting the evolution of Pakistani army as the biggest economic and political force in the country.

Gravitas: Pakistani army is like a corporate

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Gravitas: Pakistan tries to mollify FATF

Imran Khan makes Pakistan's Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa a member of National Development Council (NDC). This council will take policy decisions. Watch this video to know more.

Imran Khan gives more powers to army

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, appearing in Parliament on Thursday for the first time after being arrested in a corruption case, called for an end to his arrest, saying it would not make a difference rather create fear among the people.

Zardari, who is in the custody of the anti-corruption body National Accountability Bureau (NAB), appeared before the house after the National Assembly Secretariat issued a production order to attend Parliament session.

He said that it is time to stop the accountability and arrests, and move forward, Geo News reported.

The 63-year-old co-chairman of the Opposition Pakistan Peoples Party and husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested by the NAB from his house last week in a multi-million dollar money laundering case, hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea.

A seemingly disappointed Zardari said that putting him behind the bars would not make any difference.

"My arrest will not make a difference. It will only strengthen the party. However, it will create fear among the common man that if Zardari can be arrested then they can also be arrested," he said.

According to the production order, the NAB is directed to produce Zardari at the "commencement of each sitting of the National Assembly before the Seargeant-at-Arms at the Parliament House, Islamabad, who shall, after the conclusion of the sittings deliver him into your custody accordingly".

Commenting on the current economic situation, he said that there would be protests if the country's economic situation continues to deteriorate.

 
The former president said that the government should avoid taking steps that could trigger countrywide protests and create a situation that would no longer be in control of the political parties.

"They should think about this and the forces that brought them into power should also think about the consequences," Zardari said.

Criticising the budget presented by the government last week, he said that the budget raised government salaries but it also increased taxes.

"There is fear among the businessmen. If you have more than Rs 500,000 in your cheque book, then you receive a notice to give an explanation for it.&nbsp;There is no doubt that this budget was not made by them," he said.

"If we are receiving money from the IMF, why are the people crying? Why are the industries crying?" Zardari asked.

The current economic situation was an issue for everyone and that the government and opposition should sit together to discuss the issues affecting the economy, he added.

Last week after his arrest, Zardari was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure.

Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan.

According to the NAB, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts.&nbsp;

Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders.

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, appearing in Parliament on Thursday for the first time after being arrested in a corruption case, called for an end to his arrest, saying it would not make a difference rather create fear among the people.

Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, appearing in Parliament on Thursday for the first time after being arrested in a corruption case, called for an end to his arrest, saying it would not make a difference rather create fear among the people. Zardari, who is in the custody of the anti-corruption body National Accountability Bureau (NAB), appeared before the house after the National Assembly Secretariat issued a production order to attend Parliament session. He said that it is time to stop the accountability and arrests, and move forward, Geo News reported. The 63-year-old co-chairman of the Opposition Pakistan Peoples Party and husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested by the NAB from his house last week in a multi-million dollar money laundering case, hours after the Islamabad High Court rejected his bail plea. A seemingly disappointed Zardari said that putting him behind the bars would not make any difference. "My arrest will not make a difference. It will only strengthen the party. However, it will create fear among the common man that if Zardari can be arrested then they can also be arrested," he said. According to the production order, the NAB is directed to produce Zardari at the "commencement of each sitting of the National Assembly before the Seargeant-at-Arms at the Parliament House, Islamabad, who shall, after the conclusion of the sittings deliver him into your custody accordingly". Commenting on the current economic situation, he said that there would be protests if the country's economic situation continues to deteriorate. The former president said that the government should avoid taking steps that could trigger countrywide protests and create a situation that would no longer be in control of the political parties. "They should think about this and the forces that brought them into power should also think about the consequences," Zardari said. Criticising the budget presented by the government last week, he said that the budget raised government salaries but it also increased taxes. "There is fear among the businessmen. If you have more than Rs 500,000 in your cheque book, then you receive a notice to give an explanation for it. There is no doubt that this budget was not made by them," he said. "If we are receiving money from the IMF, why are the people crying? Why are the industries crying?" Zardari asked. The current economic situation was an issue for everyone and that the government and opposition should sit together to discuss the issues affecting the economy, he added. Last week after his arrest, Zardari was admitted to a hospital in Rawalpindi after a drop in his sugar level and blood pressure. Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur are two of the main accused in the money laundering scandal which utilised fake bank accounts to channel illegally gained funds out of Pakistan. According to the NAB, the duo made transactions of Rs 150 million through alleged fake bank accounts. Zardari, the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013, has denied any link with the fake accounts. He has said the allegation was part of a vilification campaign by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to malign opposition leaders.

Stop arresting me, it will create fear: Pakistan's ex-president Asif Ali Zardari

A Pakistani court on Thursday turned down a plea by jailed prime minister Nawaz Sharif to suspend his sentence in a corruption case and grant him bail on medical grounds.

Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018 when an accountability court convicted him in the Al-Azizia steel mills corruption case filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case.

A two-judge Islamabad High Court (IHC) bench comprising Justices Aamer Farooq and Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani rejected the plea to grant bail to 69-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo after hearing arguments by his lawyer Khawaja Harris.

During previous hearings of the case, Haris told the court that his client was suffering from multiple dangerous diseases including diabetes, blood pressure and cardiac-related problems that cannot be treated in Pakistan, pleading to the bench to grant him bail as his life is in danger.

National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor Jahanzeb Bharwana opposed the bail plea by saying adequate medical care was given to the former premier and and asked the court to dismiss the petition.

The superintendent of the Kot Lakhpat jail and a medical officer earlier this week informed the court that Sharif's health condition was better under the current medical treatment offered to him.

Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them were politically motivated.

On March 26, the Supreme Court suspended Sharif's seven-year sentence in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case and granted him bail for six weeks with a condition that he would not leave Pakistan.

In May, the apex court rejected his review petition seeking bail on medical grounds and permission to go abroad for medical treatment.

The apex court ordered him to surrender before the court as soon as his interim bail period ended. The bench, however, suggested his counsel to approach appropriate forum to get relief.

Sharif's counsel had approached IHC and cited medical reports stating that his condition was critical and required a stress-free environment to recuperate.&nbsp;

A Pakistani court on Thursday turned down a plea by jailed prime minister Nawaz Sharif to suspend his sentence in a corruption case and grant him bail on medical grounds.

A Pakistani court on Thursday turned down a plea by jailed prime minister Nawaz Sharif to suspend his sentence in a corruption case and grant him bail on medical grounds. Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018 when an accountability court convicted him in the Al-Azizia steel mills corruption case filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case. A two-judge Islamabad High Court (IHC) bench comprising Justices Aamer Farooq and Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani rejected the plea to grant bail to 69-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo after hearing arguments by his lawyer Khawaja Harris. During previous hearings of the case, Haris told the court that his client was suffering from multiple dangerous diseases including diabetes, blood pressure and cardiac-related problems that cannot be treated in Pakistan, pleading to the bench to grant him bail as his life is in danger. National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor Jahanzeb Bharwana opposed the bail plea by saying adequate medical care was given to the former premier and and asked the court to dismiss the petition. The superintendent of the Kot Lakhpat jail and a medical officer earlier this week informed the court that Sharif's health condition was better under the current medical treatment offered to him. Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them were politically motivated. On March 26, the Supreme Court suspended Sharif's seven-year sentence in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case and granted him bail for six weeks with a condition that he would not leave Pakistan. In May, the apex court rejected his review petition seeking bail on medical grounds and permission to go abroad for medical treatment. The apex court ordered him to surrender before the court as soon as his interim bail period ended. The bench, however, suggested his counsel to approach appropriate forum to get relief. Sharif's counsel had approached IHC and cited medical reports stating that his condition was critical and required a stress-free environment to recuperate.

Pakistan court rejects Sharif's plea for bail on medical grounds

Pakistani Media wrongly interprets PM Modi's letter to Pak PM. To know more watch the video

Wion Dispatch: Pakistani Media wrongly interprets PM Modi's letter to Pak PM

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

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

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

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

Massive protest was organised by the Kashmiri diaspora outside Pakistan High Commission in London. Watch this video to know more.

Anti-Pak protests in London

Amidst reports that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a multi-billion dollar bailout package with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cash-strapped-pakistan-inks-3-loan-deals-worth-918-million-with-world-bank-228323">cash-strapped Pakistan</a>, the United States is seeking "conditionality" in the new financial aid from the global lender.

Pakistan last month reached an agreement with the Washington-headquartered IMF&nbsp;for a $6 billion bailout package aimed at shoring up its finances and strengthening a slowing economy as tries to overcome a ballooning balance-of-payments crisis.

The US has serious reservations over global lenders like the IMF providing a bailout to Pakistan to pay off Chinese debts.

"There is a discussion about the conditionality what we think would be appropriate for an IMF package to Pakistan," according to Senior State Department official (South and Central Asian Affairs) Alice G Wells.

Responding to questions from lawmakers during a Congressional hearing last week, she told House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation that while the US has not seen the IMF package yet, there has been an agreement reached between the IMF and government of Pakistan.

"But certainly, we have communicated our strong views and Secretary (Mike) Pompeo has also done so publicly on the need for any package to include a real structural reform to reinforce..." Wells said when Congressman Brad Sherman said it looks like that the IMF loan is going through.

"Does treasury just do what they want for checking off some economic boxes or since this is the single most important thing we do with regard to Pakistan do they listen to you?" he asked.

However, Wells ruled out any effort to block IMF loan to Pakistan until the release of Dr Shakeel Afridi, the Pakistan doctor who is currently in jail on the charges of helping CIA to find Osama bin Laden.

"We believe Dr Afridi is being held wrongly, inappropriately. With Congress's&nbsp;help, we have withheld $130 million in assistance to Pakistan already as a result of his incarceration," she said.

Sherman said that the US aid to Pakistan has dropped by nearly 95 per cent.

"Our aid to Pakistan less than a decade ago was $2 billion a year; we now have cut it to $70 million. If I did the math quickly I would just say that's a 95 per cent reduction roughly. Pakistan I think is very important to the security of the United States. There are those that argue that Pakistan is important because it's close to Afghanistan and I think it's just the&nbsp; 
reverse," he said.

While the US aid is $70 million, the IMF loan is $6 billion.

"I don't think that could have happened without the US and I hope that when Treasury is over there, the IMF isn't just checking the boxes for fiscal purposes but are in fact taking policy direction from the State Department," Sherman added.

China is investing heavily in Pakistan under the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Launched in 2015, the CPEC is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the past warned that any potential IMF bailout for Pakistan should not provide funds to pay off Chinese lenders, saying "we will be watching what the IMF does... There is no rationale for IMF tax dollars and associated with that American dollar that are part of the IMF funding, for those to go to bail out Chinese bondholders or China itself".

Amidst reports that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a multi-billion dollar bailout package with cash-strapped Pakistan, the United States is seeking "conditionality" in the new financial aid from the global lender.

Amidst reports that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a multi-billion dollar bailout package with cash-strapped Pakistan, the United States is seeking "conditionality" in the new financial aid from the global lender. Pakistan last month reached an agreement with the Washington-headquartered IMF for a $6 billion bailout package aimed at shoring up its finances and strengthening a slowing economy as tries to overcome a ballooning balance-of-payments crisis. The US has serious reservations over global lenders like the IMF providing a bailout to Pakistan to pay off Chinese debts. "There is a discussion about the conditionality what we think would be appropriate for an IMF package to Pakistan," according to Senior State Department official (South and Central Asian Affairs) Alice G Wells. Responding to questions from lawmakers during a Congressional hearing last week, she told House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation that while the US has not seen the IMF package yet, there has been an agreement reached between the IMF and government of Pakistan. "But certainly, we have communicated our strong views and Secretary (Mike) Pompeo has also done so publicly on the need for any package to include a real structural reform to reinforce..." Wells said when Congressman Brad Sherman said it looks like that the IMF loan is going through. "Does treasury just do what they want for checking off some economic boxes or since this is the single most important thing we do with regard to Pakistan do they listen to you?" he asked. However, Wells ruled out any effort to block IMF loan to Pakistan until the release of Dr Shakeel Afridi, the Pakistan doctor who is currently in jail on the charges of helping CIA to find Osama bin Laden. "We believe Dr Afridi is being held wrongly, inappropriately. With Congress's help, we have withheld $130 million in assistance to Pakistan already as a result of his incarceration," she said. Sherman said that the US aid to Pakistan has dropped by nearly 95 per cent. "Our aid to Pakistan less than a decade ago was $2 billion a year; we now have cut it to $70 million. If I did the math quickly I would just say that's a 95 per cent reduction roughly. Pakistan I think is very important to the security of the United States. There are those that argue that Pakistan is important because it's close to Afghanistan and I think it's just the reverse," he said. While the US aid is $70 million, the IMF loan is $6 billion. "I don't think that could have happened without the US and I hope that when Treasury is over there, the IMF isn't just checking the boxes for fiscal purposes but are in fact taking policy direction from the State Department," Sherman added. China is investing heavily in Pakistan under the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Launched in 2015, the CPEC is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the past warned that any potential IMF bailout for Pakistan should not provide funds to pay off Chinese lenders, saying "we will be watching what the IMF does... There is no rationale for IMF tax dollars and associated with that American dollar that are part of the IMF funding, for those to go to bail out Chinese bondholders or China itself".

US pushes for 'conditionality' in IMF bailout package to Pakistan

Pakistan's heaviest man, who weighs over 330 kg, has been shifted to a military hospital here after the wall of his house was broken by emergency service personnel with the help of the army.

Noorul Hassan, 55, a resident of Sadiqabad district of Punjab province, some 400kms from Lahore, is suffering from extreme obesity.

On Tuesday, personnel from the Rescue 1122 had to break the wall of his house to take him outside as he was too big to pass through the main gate of his house.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa made special arrangements for Hassan's transfer and treatment after he appealed to him for help on social media.

Hassan, who is unable to move freely due to being overweight and also because of other medical complications, will get treatment, including laparoscopic surgery, at the hospital in Lahore.

On Tuesday, he was shifted to a military hospital for examination in Lahore. Later, he was shifted to Shalamar Hospital Lahore, a health facility under a public-private partnership.

According to media reports, Hassan is the heaviest man in Pakistan, but there is no official confirmation about this.

Earlier in 2017, Pakistan's most obese person with a weight of 360 kg underwent laparoscopic surgery and succeeded to bring his weight below 200 kg.

According to a survey report released by the Pakistan Endocrine Society last year, 29 per cent of the Pakistani population is overweight, out of which 51 per cent are categorized in the obesity class.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's heaviest man, who weighs over 330 kg, has been shifted to a military hospital here after the wall of his house was broken by emergency service personnel with the help of the army.

Pakistan's heaviest man, who weighs over 330 kg, has been shifted to a military hospital here after the wall of his house was broken by emergency service personnel with the help of the army. Noorul Hassan, 55, a resident of Sadiqabad district of Punjab province, some 400kms from Lahore, is suffering from extreme obesity. On Tuesday, personnel from the Rescue 1122 had to break the wall of his house to take him outside as he was too big to pass through the main gate of his house. Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa made special arrangements for Hassan's transfer and treatment after he appealed to him for help on social media. Hassan, who is unable to move freely due to being overweight and also because of other medical complications, will get treatment, including laparoscopic surgery, at the hospital in Lahore. On Tuesday, he was shifted to a military hospital for examination in Lahore. Later, he was shifted to Shalamar Hospital Lahore, a health facility under a public-private partnership. According to media reports, Hassan is the heaviest man in Pakistan, but there is no official confirmation about this. Earlier in 2017, Pakistan's most obese person with a weight of 360 kg underwent laparoscopic surgery and succeeded to bring his weight below 200 kg. According to a survey report released by the Pakistan Endocrine Society last year, 29 per cent of the Pakistani population is overweight, out of which 51 per cent are categorized in the obesity class.

Pakistan's 'heaviest' man shifted to hospital for treatment

A senior Pakistani official Tuesday claimed that the UK government has agreed to extradite former finance minister Ishaq Dar to Pakistan to face trial in a corruption case. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Dar is accused of possessing assets disproportionate to his declared sources of income. A case against the former finance minister was filed by the National Accountability Bureau after the Supreme Court's July 28 verdict in the Panama Papers case.

Dar had been declared a proclaimed offender by the Supreme Court due to his continuous absence from the proceedings.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar told media in Islamabad that Dar would be brought back under a memorandum of understanding.

"We reached at an agreement (with UK), and Dar will be brought back after ratification of the extradition documents by UK," he said.

Akbar said that according to the agreement, Dar will be produced before a magistrate in UK and then repatriated to Pakistan.

He did not give any timeline for the completion of the process of extradition but hoped that it would be completed soon.

Dar is considered very close to former premier Nawaz Sharif, who is also in jail on corruption charges.&nbsp;

A senior Pakistani official Tuesday claimed that the UK government has agreed to extradite former finance minister Ishaq Dar to Pakistan to face trial in a corruption case.

A senior Pakistani official Tuesday claimed that the UK government has agreed to extradite former finance minister Ishaq Dar to Pakistan to face trial in a corruption case. Dar is accused of possessing assets disproportionate to his declared sources of income. A case against the former finance minister was filed by the National Accountability Bureau after the Supreme Court's July 28 verdict in the Panama Papers case. Dar had been declared a proclaimed offender by the Supreme Court due to his continuous absence from the proceedings. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar told media in Islamabad that Dar would be brought back under a memorandum of understanding. "We reached at an agreement (with UK), and Dar will be brought back after ratification of the extradition documents by UK," he said. Akbar said that according to the agreement, Dar will be produced before a magistrate in UK and then repatriated to Pakistan. He did not give any timeline for the completion of the process of extradition but hoped that it would be completed soon. Dar is considered very close to former premier Nawaz Sharif, who is also in jail on corruption charges.

Agreement signed with UK government over Ishaq Dar's extradition: Pakistan official

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