Pakistan Navy on Tuesday successfully test-fired an indigenous cruise missile in the Arabian Sea.

Pakistan navy successfully test-fires indigenous cruise missile

Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-pm-imran-khan-to-visit-china-next-week-sign-new-pacts-211179">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> is all set to embark for his second visit to China from Thursday.

The visit comes in the wake of the second edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-plans-to-send-officials-for-chinas-belt-and-road-forum-us-213201">Belt and Road forum</a> and will have leaders from 37 countries.

Imran Khan will pay a four-day visit to Beijing and will&nbsp;be accompanied by a high-level ministerial delegation.

This will be Khan’s second visit to China since coming to power in August 2018.

China has pledged about $60 billion in infrastructure loans for Pakistan, touted as a success story of its Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to build road and maritime trading routes across the globe.

Through the project, China aims to expand its influence worldwide with the help of a chain of infrastructure projects funded by Chinese investments.&nbsp;

India and Bhutan will be among a handful of countries to skip Xi Jinping's mega event.

India opposes the Belt and Road Initiative because its offshoot, the 60-billion-dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor, passes through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, which is an integral part of the Jammu and Kashmir.

Besides delivering the keynote address to the forum, Imran Khan will also meet with the Chinese leadership.

He is also scheduled to hold talks with other heads of state or government on the margins of the forum.

Sources privy to the development say that China is likely to give an exemption to three-hundred-and-13 products of import from Pakistan.

Islamabad aims to sign a free trade agreement with China.

Pakistan’s crippling economy has been a worry for the Imran Khan government since he has taken charge. Friendly countries, including China, came to Islamabad’s rescue in a bid to pull the country out of a Balance-of-payments crisis.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is all set to embark for his second visit to China from Thursday. The visit comes in the wake of the second edition of the Belt and Road forum and will have leaders from 37 countries.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is all set to embark for his second visit to China from Thursday. The visit comes in the wake of the second edition of the Belt and Road forum and will have leaders from 37 countries. Imran Khan will pay a four-day visit to Beijing and will be accompanied by a high-level ministerial delegation. This will be Khan’s second visit to China since coming to power in August 2018. China has pledged about $60 billion in infrastructure loans for Pakistan, touted as a success story of its Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to build road and maritime trading routes across the globe. Through the project, China aims to expand its influence worldwide with the help of a chain of infrastructure projects funded by Chinese investments. India and Bhutan will be among a handful of countries to skip Xi Jinping's mega event. India opposes the Belt and Road Initiative because its offshoot, the 60-billion-dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor, passes through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, which is an integral part of the Jammu and Kashmir. Besides delivering the keynote address to the forum, Imran Khan will also meet with the Chinese leadership. He is also scheduled to hold talks with other heads of state or government on the margins of the forum. Sources privy to the development say that China is likely to give an exemption to three-hundred-and-13 products of import from Pakistan. Islamabad aims to sign a free trade agreement with China. Pakistan’s crippling economy has been a worry for the Imran Khan government since he has taken charge. Friendly countries, including China, came to Islamabad’s rescue in a bid to pull the country out of a Balance-of-payments crisis.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to visit China, will attend Belt and Road forum

Transgender people in Pakistan`s Sindh province will be able to serve as regular duty police officers, the police chief said, adding it was time to offer more opportunities to a group relegated to menial jobs in government.

After years of sometimes brutal persecution, transgender Pakistanis gained recognition in 2009 when the Supreme Court granted them special status with rights equal to other citizens.

While discrimination still persists, the move to allow transgender police recruits would be a significant step for the community, activists say.

"We will make them part of Sindh police," Syed Kaleem Imam, Inspector General of the Sindh police told Reuters in Karachi, the capital of Sindh province.

"They are good God-gifted people. Citizens like us. We should stand by them," said Imam, who as a junior officer became aware of the discrimination against the community.

As in neighbouring India and Bangladesh, transgender Pakistanis have faced widespread discrimination for decades. Many live in secluded communities, earning a living as dancers or forced into sex work or begging.

A 2017 census counted 10,418 transgender people in the country of 207 million, but rights group Charity Trans Action Pakistan estimates there are at least 500,000.

`TRANS-FRIENDLY`

In a major step forward in 2009, the Supreme Court ruled that transgender people could receive national identity cards as a "third sex" and in 2017, the government issued its first passport with a transgender category.

While some transgender people have achieved celebrity as news anchors or fashion models, entry into the police force would be a major development for the community.

"Police behaviour and their complaint mechanism is not trans-friendly. I will try to make police trans-friendly and educate colleagues when I join the police," said Shahzadi Rai, a 29-year-old transgender activist who hopes to join the force.

"When we go to lodge any report at the police station, their behaviour and questions hurt us. They don`t ask questions about the case, but about our gender," Rai said.

Zehrish Khan, a programme manager at Gender Interactive Alliance, a transgender rights group, said the community had always sought inclusion and was now seeing the fruits of the 2009 Supreme Court ruling.

"If we are inducted into the police, we`ll show we can work harder compared to men and women," Khan told Reuters.&nbsp;

It could be months before the first transgender police officers are hired, Imam said, but they will have the same opportunities as other recruits and perform regular duties in the field.

"We will give them space, facilitate them so that they can come into the mainstream," the police chief said.

Transgender people in Pakistan`s Sindh province will be able to serve as regular duty police officers, the police chief said, adding it was time to offer more opportunities to a group relegated to menial jobs in government.

Transgender people in Pakistan`s Sindh province will be able to serve as regular duty police officers, the police chief said, adding it was time to offer more opportunities to a group relegated to menial jobs in government. After years of sometimes brutal persecution, transgender Pakistanis gained recognition in 2009 when the Supreme Court granted them special status with rights equal to other citizens. While discrimination still persists, the move to allow transgender police recruits would be a significant step for the community, activists say. "We will make them part of Sindh police," Syed Kaleem Imam, Inspector General of the Sindh police told Reuters in Karachi, the capital of Sindh province. "They are good God-gifted people. Citizens like us. We should stand by them," said Imam, who as a junior officer became aware of the discrimination against the community. As in neighbouring India and Bangladesh, transgender Pakistanis have faced widespread discrimination for decades. Many live in secluded communities, earning a living as dancers or forced into sex work or begging. A 2017 census counted 10,418 transgender people in the country of 207 million, but rights group Charity Trans Action Pakistan estimates there are at least 500,000. `TRANS-FRIENDLY` In a major step forward in 2009, the Supreme Court ruled that transgender people could receive national identity cards as a "third sex" and in 2017, the government issued its first passport with a transgender category. While some transgender people have achieved celebrity as news anchors or fashion models, entry into the police force would be a major development for the community. "Police behaviour and their complaint mechanism is not trans-friendly. I will try to make police trans-friendly and educate colleagues when I join the police," said Shahzadi Rai, a 29-year-old transgender activist who hopes to join the force. "When we go to lodge any report at the police station, their behaviour and questions hurt us. They don`t ask questions about the case, but about our gender," Rai said. Zehrish Khan, a programme manager at Gender Interactive Alliance, a transgender rights group, said the community had always sought inclusion and was now seeing the fruits of the 2009 Supreme Court ruling. "If we are inducted into the police, we`ll show we can work harder compared to men and women," Khan told Reuters. It could be months before the first transgender police officers are hired, Imam said, but they will have the same opportunities as other recruits and perform regular duties in the field. "We will give them space, facilitate them so that they can come into the mainstream," the police chief said.

Police to allow transgender recruits in Pakistan province

Imran Khan Admits That Terror Originating From Pakistan Soil Has Hurt Iran. Khan Also Pushed Pakistan In The Saudi Arabia Versus Iran Power Struggle

Gravitas: Japan-France & A Terror Admission: Decoding Imran Khan's Iran visit

Prime Minister Imran Khan paid a high-level visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran from April 21-22 2019, on the invitation Iranian President Dr. Hassan Rouhani.

Imran khan admits terror groups in Pakistan; Watch debate

A group of as many as 220 Hindu pilgrims from Pakistan reached northern India's temple town of Haridwar on Sunday as a part of their religious tour.

The pilgrims were seen dancing on the roads to the tune of religious music, singing devotional hymns, and taking a dip in the holy River Ganges.

The pilgrims also brought a pot full of water from Indus River and mixed the water in Ganges River, considering it auspicious.

According to the beliefs of Hindu mythology, taking a dip in the river Ganges can liberate one from all their sins and immersing ashes in it after cremating the dead will bring salvation to their souls.

Millions of Hindus visit the holy town of Haridwar located in the serene Himalayan state of Uttarakhand ever year to take a dip in Ganges and perform the last rites of their loved ones.

A group of as many as 220 Hindu pilgrims from Pakistan reached northern India's temple town of Haridwar on Sunday as a part of their religious tour. The pilgrims were seen dancing on the roads to the tune of religious music, singing devotional hymns, and taking a dip in the holy River Ganges.

A group of as many as 220 Hindu pilgrims from Pakistan reached northern India's temple town of Haridwar on Sunday as a part of their religious tour. The pilgrims were seen dancing on the roads to the tune of religious music, singing devotional hymns, and taking a dip in the holy River Ganges. The pilgrims also brought a pot full of water from Indus River and mixed the water in Ganges River, considering it auspicious. According to the beliefs of Hindu mythology, taking a dip in the river Ganges can liberate one from all their sins and immersing ashes in it after cremating the dead will bring salvation to their souls. Millions of Hindus visit the holy town of Haridwar located in the serene Himalayan state of Uttarakhand ever year to take a dip in Ganges and perform the last rites of their loved ones.

Over 200 Hindu pilgrims from Pakistan take holy dip in India's Ganges

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Iran on Sunday to discuss security and regional issues, Iranian state TV reported, a day after Islamabad urged Tehran to act against militants behind killings in Pakistan's Baluchistan province.

A new umbrella group representing various insurgent groups operating in Baluchistan claimed responsibility for an attack on Thursday when 14 passengers were killed after being kidnapped from buses in the province, which borders Iran.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday the training and logistical camps of the new alliance that carried out the attack were inside Iran and called for Iran to take action against the insurgents.

Iranian TV said that Khan began his two-day visit to Iran, the first since he took office last August, with a stop in the northeastern holy Shi'ite city of Mashhad.

Khan will meet Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani, as well as other officials, in Tehran on Monday.

"During the meetings, improving bilateral ties, border security, countering terrorism and regional issues will be discussed," state TV said.

Relations between Iran and Pakistan have been strained in recent months, with both sides accusing each other of not doing enough to stamp out militants allegedly sheltering across the border.

Shi'ite Muslim Iran says militant groups operate from safe havens in Pakistan and has repeatedly called on Islamabad to crack down on them.

Tehran has stepped up security along its long border with Pakistan after a suicide bomber killed 27 members of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards in mid-February in southeastern Iran, with Iranian officials saying the attackers were based inside Pakistan.

The Sunni group Jaish al Adl (Army of Justice), which says it seeks greater rights and better living conditions for the ethnic Baloch minority, claimed responsibility for that attack.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Iran on Sunday to discuss security and regional issues, Iranian state TV reported, a day after Islamabad urged Tehran to act against militants behind killings in Pakistan's Baluchistan province.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Iran on Sunday to discuss security and regional issues, Iranian state TV reported, a day after Islamabad urged Tehran to act against militants behind killings in Pakistan's Baluchistan province. A new umbrella group representing various insurgent groups operating in Baluchistan claimed responsibility for an attack on Thursday when 14 passengers were killed after being kidnapped from buses in the province, which borders Iran. Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday the training and logistical camps of the new alliance that carried out the attack were inside Iran and called for Iran to take action against the insurgents. Iranian TV said that Khan began his two-day visit to Iran, the first since he took office last August, with a stop in the northeastern holy Shi'ite city of Mashhad. Khan will meet Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani, as well as other officials, in Tehran on Monday. "During the meetings, improving bilateral ties, border security, countering terrorism and regional issues will be discussed," state TV said. Relations between Iran and Pakistan have been strained in recent months, with both sides accusing each other of not doing enough to stamp out militants allegedly sheltering across the border. Shi'ite Muslim Iran says militant groups operate from safe havens in Pakistan and has repeatedly called on Islamabad to crack down on them. Tehran has stepped up security along its long border with Pakistan after a suicide bomber killed 27 members of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards in mid-February in southeastern Iran, with Iranian officials saying the attackers were based inside Pakistan. The Sunni group Jaish al Adl (Army of Justice), which says it seeks greater rights and better living conditions for the ethnic Baloch minority, claimed responsibility for that attack.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan in Iran to talk security, ties

Warships from India, Australia and several other nations arrived in the eastern Chinese port city of Qingdao on Sunday (April 21) to attend a naval parade, part of a goodwill visit as China extends the hand of friendship despite regional tensions and suspicions.

Indian, Australian warships arrive in China for naval parade

Condolence messages from all world leaders over Sri Lanka blasts, All expresses support by tweet. Watch complete video to know more.

Sri Lanka blasts: Condolence messages from world leaders, expresses support by tweet

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

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

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

Chinese national found dead in Pakistan

In a bid to increase its border security, Pakistan will be fencing its border with Iran in the wake of the Ormara incident which saw <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-protest-with-iran-over-inaction-against-balochistan-bus-attack-211987">14 Pakistani people being killed</a> on the Makran Coastal Highway recently.

"It is costly and Pakistan has tight economy but considering its importance we have decided to fence it," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshi-to-visit-japan-211992">Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> said on Saturday.

Fourteen Pakistanis were shot dead, after three to four buses travelling from Ormara to Gwadar were stopped by around 15-20 terrorists, wearing the Frontier Corps (FC) uniform, on the coastal highway at Buzi Top on April 18, according to Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Pakistani authorities have alleged that BRAS, the alliance of three Baloch terrorist organisations, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan lodged a strong protest with Iran over the country's "inaction" against the group behind the attack, according to The Express Tribune.

"Actionable intelligence after investigations has been shared with Iranian authorities. Location of the camps has also been identified by us. We expect Tehran to take action against these entities," Qureshi stated.

He further said that he had spoken to his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif, conveying "the sorrow and anger of the Pakistani masses" at the incident. The Pakistani minister added that Zarif had "strongly condemned the incident and reassured full cooperation."

Qureshi also announced that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan would be visiting Iran on April 21, during which the two sides "will get a chance to discuss a mechanism which can be put in place to prevent further incidents."

Quoting Qureshi, The Express Tribune further reported that six steps have already been taken to make the Iran-Pakistan border more peaceful. The steps include setting up a new Southern command in Turbat for vigilance and prompt action and establishing joint border centres.&nbsp;

In a bid to increase its border security, Pakistan will be fencing its border with Iran in the wake of the Ormara incident which saw 14 Pakistani people being killed on the Makran Coastal Highway recently.

In a bid to increase its border security, Pakistan will be fencing its border with Iran in the wake of the Ormara incident which saw 14 Pakistani people being killed on the Makran Coastal Highway recently. "It is costly and Pakistan has tight economy but considering its importance we have decided to fence it," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Saturday. Fourteen Pakistanis were shot dead, after three to four buses travelling from Ormara to Gwadar were stopped by around 15-20 terrorists, wearing the Frontier Corps (FC) uniform, on the coastal highway at Buzi Top on April 18, according to Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pakistani authorities have alleged that BRAS, the alliance of three Baloch terrorist organisations, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan lodged a strong protest with Iran over the country's "inaction" against the group behind the attack, according to The Express Tribune. "Actionable intelligence after investigations has been shared with Iranian authorities. Location of the camps has also been identified by us. We expect Tehran to take action against these entities," Qureshi stated. He further said that he had spoken to his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif, conveying "the sorrow and anger of the Pakistani masses" at the incident. The Pakistani minister added that Zarif had "strongly condemned the incident and reassured full cooperation." Qureshi also announced that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan would be visiting Iran on April 21, during which the two sides "will get a chance to discuss a mechanism which can be put in place to prevent further incidents." Quoting Qureshi, The Express Tribune further reported that six steps have already been taken to make the Iran-Pakistan border more peaceful. The steps include setting up a new Southern command in Turbat for vigilance and prompt action and establishing joint border centres.

Pakistan to fence its border with Iran following Ormara incident: Qureshi

The India Air Force is recommending Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman for the wartime gallantry medal Vir Chakra for shooting down an F-16 in aerial conflict with Pakistan.

IAF recommends Wing Commander Abhinandan for 'Vir Chakra'

A 200-bed hospital built with Pakistan's assistance to boost the health sector of Afghanistan was inaugurated in Kabul on Saturday.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah Hospital is a state of the art hospital constructed at the cost of $24 million and a flagship project of Pakistan's $1 billion development assistance to Afghanistan in pursuance of its policy objective of deepening and broadening people to people connections between the two countries.

The facility was jointly inaugurated by Pakistan Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Muhammad Khan, Afghanistan's Vice-President, Mohammad Sarwar Danish and Minister of Public Health, Dr Ferozuddin Feroz.

The 200-bed state-of-art Jinnah Hospital, completed at a cost of $24 million, was officially handed over by Pakistan to the government of Afghanistan, the Foreign Office said.

Khan said on the occasion that the hospital would be a substantial contribution to the health sector of Afghanistan.

He also conveyed the message of Prime Minister Imran Khan that Pakistan would continue to take all possible measures for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan.

Dr Feroz expressed his deep thanks for the hospital and appreciated Pakistan's immense assistance in the health sector which also included under construction 100-bed Naeb Aminullah Khan Hospital in Logar costing $19 million and other completed projects including Nishtar Kidney Center in Jalalabad.

A 200-bed hospital built with Pakistan's assistance to boost the health sector of Afghanistan was inaugurated in Kabul on Saturday. Muhammad Ali Jinnah Hospital is a state of the art hospital constructed at the cost of $24 million and a flagship project of Pakistan's $1 billion development assistance to Afghanistan in pursuance of its policy objective of deepening and broadening people to people connections between the two countries.

A 200-bed hospital built with Pakistan's assistance to boost the health sector of Afghanistan was inaugurated in Kabul on Saturday. Muhammad Ali Jinnah Hospital is a state of the art hospital constructed at the cost of $24 million and a flagship project of Pakistan's $1 billion development assistance to Afghanistan in pursuance of its policy objective of deepening and broadening people to people connections between the two countries. The facility was jointly inaugurated by Pakistan Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Muhammad Khan, Afghanistan's Vice-President, Mohammad Sarwar Danish and Minister of Public Health, Dr Ferozuddin Feroz. The 200-bed state-of-art Jinnah Hospital, completed at a cost of $24 million, was officially handed over by Pakistan to the government of Afghanistan, the Foreign Office said. Khan said on the occasion that the hospital would be a substantial contribution to the health sector of Afghanistan. He also conveyed the message of Prime Minister Imran Khan that Pakistan would continue to take all possible measures for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan. Dr Feroz expressed his deep thanks for the hospital and appreciated Pakistan's immense assistance in the health sector which also included under construction 100-bed Naeb Aminullah Khan Hospital in Logar costing $19 million and other completed projects including Nishtar Kidney Center in Jalalabad.

Afghanistan: Constructed with Pakistan's assistance, hospital with 200-bed inaugurated in Kabul

Pakistan's newly appointed advisor to the prime minister on finance, Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said on Saturday that talks with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-team-to-visit-pakistan-this-month-to-discuss-support-package-210650">International Monetary Fund (IMF) to finalise a bailout package</a> would be held soon.&nbsp;

Shaikh was appointed as an advisor on Friday following the abrupt resignation of finance minister Asad Umar after returning from the US where he held talks with IMF for a crucial multi-billion dollar bailout package for cash-strapped Pakistan.

Islamabad is seeking $8 billion from the IMF to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy.

Pakistan has so far received a total of $9.1 billion in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year.

Shaikh, who took charge of the Ministry on Saturday, said in a brief talk that he would take forward the talks with the IMF.&nbsp;

"Both parties want to progress on the matter, and they have a commitment to us. I will be contacting the IMF mission head today evening," he said.

Shaikh also said that after holding initial talks with top officials of his ministry he realised that the next budget can be presented no earlier than May 24.

He also said that he has already tasked the officials to prepare a medium-term strategy paper to move the country forward.

Shaikh was also expected to meet Prime Minister Imran Khan to discuss the economic situation and work out a plan to rebuild the shattered economy.

His immediate task is to negotiate and favourable assistance package with the IMF and control inflation which cost his predecessor his job.

Pakistan's newly appointed advisor to the prime minister on finance, Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said on Saturday that talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to finalise a bailout package would be held soon.

Pakistan's newly appointed advisor to the prime minister on finance, Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said on Saturday that talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to finalise a bailout package would be held soon. Shaikh was appointed as an advisor on Friday following the abrupt resignation of finance minister Asad Umar after returning from the US where he held talks with IMF for a crucial multi-billion dollar bailout package for cash-strapped Pakistan. Islamabad is seeking $8 billion from the IMF to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy. Pakistan has so far received a total of $9.1 billion in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year. Shaikh, who took charge of the Ministry on Saturday, said in a brief talk that he would take forward the talks with the IMF. "Both parties want to progress on the matter, and they have a commitment to us. I will be contacting the IMF mission head today evening," he said. Shaikh also said that after holding initial talks with top officials of his ministry he realised that the next budget can be presented no earlier than May 24. He also said that he has already tasked the officials to prepare a medium-term strategy paper to move the country forward. Shaikh was also expected to meet Prime Minister Imran Khan to discuss the economic situation and work out a plan to rebuild the shattered economy. His immediate task is to negotiate and favourable assistance package with the IMF and control inflation which cost his predecessor his job.

Talks with IMF for bailout package to start soon: Pakistan's advisor to PM Imran Khan

Pakistan on Saturday lodged a strong protest with Iran for not taking action against the group behind the killing of 14 passengers who were forcibly offloaded them from their bus on the Makran Coastal Highway in Ormara, Balochistan.

Pakistan sends protest letter to Iran, demands action against 14 killings

IMF warned of possiblity of Pak blacklisting by FATF. Watch complete video to know more.

India warns IMF against Pakistan bailout

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

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

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

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Japan

Here Is A List Of The Many Challenges In Front Of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan

Gravitas:  Imran Khan faces a plethora of problems

India has suspended LoC trade in J&K with Pakistan as route being misused for smuggling of weapons & Drugs. Watch complete video to know more.

Gravitas: India suspends LoC trade in J&K with Pakistan

Two Pakistan Taliban terrorists have been arrested for their involvement in the kidnapping and killing of American journalist Danial Pearl and several terror-related activities in the country, officials said on Friday.

The Counter-Terrorism Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Manshera district said they are the most dreaded terrorists of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Azeem Jan and Muhammad Anwar were arrested during an intelligence-based operation, officials said.

They were involved in the kidnapping and killing of American journalist Pearl in 2002.

Pearl, who was the South Asia Bureau Chief of The Wall Street Journal, was kidnapped and later beheaded by terrorists in Pakistan.

Azeem, an active member of the TTP Karachi, TTP Swat and Shagla districts, was a trained terrorist and a suicide bombing trainer who supplied trained suicide bombers to the TTP, they said, adding that he was also the chief of financial affairs of TTP Miranshah.

He was also involved in the terrorist attack on the French embassy staff in Karachi and provided suicide bombers for an attack on former president Gen Pervez Musharaf.

Anwar, who was trained in Khyber, was the mastermind behind the attack on Daewoo Bus terminal Peshawar wherein two policemen were killed.&nbsp;

Two Pakistan Taliban terrorists have been arrested for their involvement in the kidnapping and killing of American journalist Danial Pearl and several terror-related activities in the country, officials said on Friday.

Two Pakistan Taliban terrorists have been arrested for their involvement in the kidnapping and killing of American journalist Danial Pearl and several terror-related activities in the country, officials said on Friday. The Counter-Terrorism Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Manshera district said they are the most dreaded terrorists of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Azeem Jan and Muhammad Anwar were arrested during an intelligence-based operation, officials said. They were involved in the kidnapping and killing of American journalist Pearl in 2002. Pearl, who was the South Asia Bureau Chief of The Wall Street Journal, was kidnapped and later beheaded by terrorists in Pakistan. Azeem, an active member of the TTP Karachi, TTP Swat and Shagla districts, was a trained terrorist and a suicide bombing trainer who supplied trained suicide bombers to the TTP, they said, adding that he was also the chief of financial affairs of TTP Miranshah. He was also involved in the terrorist attack on the French embassy staff in Karachi and provided suicide bombers for an attack on former president Gen Pervez Musharaf. Anwar, who was trained in Khyber, was the mastermind behind the attack on Daewoo Bus terminal Peshawar wherein two policemen were killed.

Two terrorists involved in US journalist Danial Pearl's killing held in Pakistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that he would not hesitate to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-in-major-cabinet-reshuffle-portfolios-of-several-ministers-changed-211652">make more changes to his cabinet</a> if required a day after a major reshuffle that saw the appointment of a new finance minister and nine other ministerial switches.

The cabinet shakeup, which comes eight months after Khan took office, included the replacement of Finance Minister Asad Umar, who has been a close ally to Khan for many years, with Abdul Hafeez Shaikh in a renamed role to steer the country out of worsening economic turmoil.

Pakistan is on the brink of signing up for its 13th International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout since the late 1980s in a bid to stave off a balance of payments crisis and ease ballooning current account and fiscal deficits.

"I want to tell all my ministers that whoever is not useful for my country, I will change them and bring that minister who is useful for my country," Khan said during a speech in the northern region of Orakzai.

Shaikh, who served as finance minister from 2010-2013 under the opposition Pakistan People's Party when it was in power, has been appointed as "Adviser on Finance" but will be heading the finance ministry once again.

In Pakistan' it is common for financial experts to be given the title of "adviser", rather than federal minister, to head the finance ministry when they are not a sitting member of parliament.

Umar has been leading negotiations with the IMF but faced criticism over a worsening economic outlook on his watch, with inflation at a five-year high and the rupee currency down about 35 per cent since December 2017.

The central bank last month cut growth estimates, forecasting the economy to expand 3.5 to 4 per cent in the 12 months to the end of June, well short of a government target of 6.2 per cent. The IMF paints a gloomier picture, predicting growth of 2.9 per cent in 2019 and 2.8 per cent next year.

In a speech laden with cricket metaphors, Khan, who led Pakistan's cricket team to World Cup triumph in 1992, said such changes were part of good leadership.

"The captain has one objective and that is to get the team to win. The prime minister also has one objective and I have only one objective, to help my people win, to help them rise," he said.

"For this, I have the changed the batting order in my team and I will do this again in the future."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that he would not hesitate to make more changes to his cabinet if required a day after a major reshuffle that saw the appointment of a new finance minister and nine other ministerial switches.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that he would not hesitate to make more changes to his cabinet if required a day after a major reshuffle that saw the appointment of a new finance minister and nine other ministerial switches. The cabinet shakeup, which comes eight months after Khan took office, included the replacement of Finance Minister Asad Umar, who has been a close ally to Khan for many years, with Abdul Hafeez Shaikh in a renamed role to steer the country out of worsening economic turmoil. Pakistan is on the brink of signing up for its 13th International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout since the late 1980s in a bid to stave off a balance of payments crisis and ease ballooning current account and fiscal deficits. "I want to tell all my ministers that whoever is not useful for my country, I will change them and bring that minister who is useful for my country," Khan said during a speech in the northern region of Orakzai. Shaikh, who served as finance minister from 2010-2013 under the opposition Pakistan People's Party when it was in power, has been appointed as "Adviser on Finance" but will be heading the finance ministry once again. In Pakistan' it is common for financial experts to be given the title of "adviser", rather than federal minister, to head the finance ministry when they are not a sitting member of parliament. Umar has been leading negotiations with the IMF but faced criticism over a worsening economic outlook on his watch, with inflation at a five-year high and the rupee currency down about 35 per cent since December 2017. The central bank last month cut growth estimates, forecasting the economy to expand 3.5 to 4 per cent in the 12 months to the end of June, well short of a government target of 6.2 per cent. The IMF paints a gloomier picture, predicting growth of 2.9 per cent in 2019 and 2.8 per cent next year. In a speech laden with cricket metaphors, Khan, who led Pakistan's cricket team to World Cup triumph in 1992, said such changes were part of good leadership. "The captain has one objective and that is to get the team to win. The prime minister also has one objective and I have only one objective, to help my people win, to help them rise," he said. "For this, I have the changed the batting order in my team and I will do this again in the future."

Pakistan PM Imran Khan hints at further cabinet changes after 'batting order' shuffle

China said on Friday it is ready to hold a Wuhan-style summit meeting with India this year to improve ties, not with standing the differences over the trillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative in which the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a flagship project.

China : China ready for Wuhan-style summit meet with India despite differences over BRI

The MHA on Thursday ordered suspension of cross-LoC trade between India and Pakistan via Jammu and Kashmir following reports of alleged misuse of the trade routes by Pakistan-based elements for illegal inflow of weapons, narcotics and currency, officials said.

India suspends cross-LoC trade with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir

At least six people were killed and 23 injured, including eight women, in recent flash floods and torrential rains in northwest Pakistan, officials said.

A spokesman for provincial disaster management authority (PDMA) said that at least four people were killed and eight injured while 11 houses were damaged in incidents of roof collapse due to rains in Dikhan, Karak, Charsadda and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Peshawar received over 28 millimetres of rains in the last 24 hours. The PDMA also issued a weather alert to all the district administrations in the province.

A spokesman for the Fata Disaster Management Authority (FDMA) said that two children were killed and 12 others, including eight women, injured in recent torrential rains in merged districts North Waziristan and Bajaur.

A total of 14 people have been killed, 33 injured and 18 houses damaged in merged districts alone in rain-related incidents since April 4 in northwest Pakistan.&nbsp;

At least six people were killed and 23 injured, including eight women, in recent flash floods and torrential rains in northwest Pakistan, officials said. A spokesman for provincial disaster management authority (PDMA) said that at least four people were killed and eight injured while 11 houses were damaged in incidents of roof collapse due to rains in Dikhan, Karak, Charsadda and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

At least six people were killed and 23 injured, including eight women, in recent flash floods and torrential rains in northwest Pakistan, officials said. A spokesman for provincial disaster management authority (PDMA) said that at least four people were killed and eight injured while 11 houses were damaged in incidents of roof collapse due to rains in Dikhan, Karak, Charsadda and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Peshawar received over 28 millimetres of rains in the last 24 hours. The PDMA also issued a weather alert to all the district administrations in the province. A spokesman for the Fata Disaster Management Authority (FDMA) said that two children were killed and 12 others, including eight women, injured in recent torrential rains in merged districts North Waziristan and Bajaur. A total of 14 people have been killed, 33 injured and 18 houses damaged in merged districts alone in rain-related incidents since April 4 in northwest Pakistan.

6 killed, 23 injured in flash floods in northwest Pakistan

Pakistan on Thursday said it is "keen" to hold a meeting with India soon to finalise an agreement for the opening of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-india-pak-technical-talks-on-kartarpur-corridor-conclude-210924">Kartarpur corridor</a>, days after the two countries held a meeting on the technical aspects of the proposal.

The Kartarpur corridor links Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Narowal with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district in Punjab.

Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that work is proceeding rapidly on the Pakistani side on the Kartarpur corridor.

"In view of paucity of time, we are keen to hold the meeting to finalise the draft agreement at the earliest. The meeting is specifically to discuss differences related to proposals of both countries for operationalising the corridor and to align positions to build convergence. We hope India will agree to hold a meeting at the earliest," he said.

"Both sides agreed to share the technical design/parameters for passage of flood water at the earliest," he said.

The spokesman announced that the Evacuee Trust Board Pakistan was all set to launch a special coin and postal stamp to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak.

The technical-level talks took place on April 16.

Officials said in New Delhi that at the nearly four-hour-long meeting, which took place in makeshift tents at "Zero point" of the proposed corridor, experts and technicians from both the countries discussed "timing for completion of bridge, alignment of roads and engineering aspects of the proposed crossing points".

In November 2018, India and Pakistan agreed to set up the border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak, to Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district.

Kartarpur is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the Ravi, about four km from the Dera Baba Nanak.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Thursday said it is "keen" to hold a meeting with India soon to finalise an agreement for the opening of the Kartarpur corridor, days after the two countries held a meeting on the technical aspects of the proposal.

Pakistan on Thursday said it is "keen" to hold a meeting with India soon to finalise an agreement for the opening of the Kartarpur corridor, days after the two countries held a meeting on the technical aspects of the proposal. The Kartarpur corridor links Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Narowal with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that work is proceeding rapidly on the Pakistani side on the Kartarpur corridor. "In view of paucity of time, we are keen to hold the meeting to finalise the draft agreement at the earliest. The meeting is specifically to discuss differences related to proposals of both countries for operationalising the corridor and to align positions to build convergence. We hope India will agree to hold a meeting at the earliest," he said. "Both sides agreed to share the technical design/parameters for passage of flood water at the earliest," he said. The spokesman announced that the Evacuee Trust Board Pakistan was all set to launch a special coin and postal stamp to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak. The technical-level talks took place on April 16. Officials said in New Delhi that at the nearly four-hour-long meeting, which took place in makeshift tents at "Zero point" of the proposed corridor, experts and technicians from both the countries discussed "timing for completion of bridge, alignment of roads and engineering aspects of the proposed crossing points". In November 2018, India and Pakistan agreed to set up the border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak, to Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district. Kartarpur is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the Ravi, about four km from the Dera Baba Nanak.

Pakistan 'keen' to finalise pact for Kartarpur corridor opening

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-phase-2-voting-on-april-18-211287">Lok Sabha polls 2019 live: EVM glitches delay voting in Tamil Nadu, 61% turnout recorded till 6 pm</a>

West Bengal went to polls braving violence.

Isolated incidents of violence, road blockades, bombings and police firing marred the second phase of polling at a few place in the three Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal with 76 per cent of voter turnout till 6pm on Thursday, officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-of-india-suspends-loc-trade-with-pakistan-says-route-being-misused-211563">Government of India suspends LoC trade with Pakistan, says route being misused</a>

In a blow to Pakistan, India on Thursday called off trade between J&amp;K and POK(Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) along the line of control(LoC).

The ministry of home affairs letter, procured by WION and dated April 18, 2019, said the trade is being misused by the Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency and called for a "stricter regulatory regime".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-bangladeshi-actor-asked-to-leave-india-for-participating-in-political-rally-in-west-bengal-mha-211516">Another Bangladeshi actor asked to leave India for participating in political rally in West Bengal: MHA</a>

The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked another Bangladeshi actor Ghazi Abdul Noor to leave India immediately for taking part in a political rally in West Bengal, news agencies reported on Thursday.&nbsp;

As per reports, Noor attended a political rally in Dumdum, West Bengal. His visa had also expired.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/local-insurgent-group-claims-responsibility-for-balochistan-bus-attack-211475">Local insurgent group claims responsibility for Balochistan bus attack</a>

A Baluch insurgent group on Thursday claimed responsibility for killing 14 people in southwest Pakistan, it said in a statement emailed to reporters and newspaper offices.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-to-meet-putin-in-russia-in-late-april-211539">North Korea's Kim to meet Putin in Russia in late April</a>

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit Russia in late April for his first meeting with President Vladimir Putin, Moscow said Thursday.

"Following an invitation from Vladimir Putin... Kim Jong Un will visit Russia in the second half of April," the Kremlin said in a statement on its website.

Lok Sabha polls 2019 live: EVM glitches delay voting in Tamil Nadu, 61% turnout recorded till 6 pm West Bengal went to polls braving violence. Isolated incidents of violence, road blockades, bombings and police firing marred the second phase of polling at a few place in the three Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal with 76 per cent of voter turnout till 6pm on Thursday, officials said.

Lok Sabha polls 2019 live: EVM glitches delay voting in Tamil Nadu, 61% turnout recorded till 6 pm West Bengal went to polls braving violence. Isolated incidents of violence, road blockades, bombings and police firing marred the second phase of polling at a few place in the three Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal with 76 per cent of voter turnout till 6pm on Thursday, officials said. Government of India suspends LoC trade with Pakistan, says route being misused In a blow to Pakistan, India on Thursday called off trade between J&K and POK(Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) along the line of control(LoC). The ministry of home affairs letter, procured by WION and dated April 18, 2019, said the trade is being misused by the Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency and called for a "stricter regulatory regime". Another Bangladeshi actor asked to leave India for participating in political rally in West Bengal: MHA The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked another Bangladeshi actor Ghazi Abdul Noor to leave India immediately for taking part in a political rally in West Bengal, news agencies reported on Thursday. As per reports, Noor attended a political rally in Dumdum, West Bengal. His visa had also expired. Local insurgent group claims responsibility for Balochistan bus attack A Baluch insurgent group on Thursday claimed responsibility for killing 14 people in southwest Pakistan, it said in a statement emailed to reporters and newspaper offices. North Korea's Kim to meet Putin in Russia in late April North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit Russia in late April for his first meeting with President Vladimir Putin, Moscow said Thursday. "Following an invitation from Vladimir Putin... Kim Jong Un will visit Russia in the second half of April," the Kremlin said in a statement on its website.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Pakistan foreign ministry on Thursday refused to acknowledge that an Indian woman named Tina Sharma is held captive in the country. Tina from Chandigarh had arrived in Pakistan last year on October 24, allegedly converted to Islam and married a Pakistani national. 
&nbsp; 
"As per our reports from ground, Tina is not kidnapped nor held captive. We will share the details once Interior ministry shares their report with us," Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal said on Thursday.

Indian government in multiple note verbales to Pakistan had enquired about her and demanded that Tina should be sent back. She is believed to be in the captivity of her husband Suleman in Gujranwala, Pakistan. 
&nbsp; 
"We have raised this issue with Pakistan government several times. Tina is kept in captivity," Indian High Commission spokesman said in Islamabad on Monday.

The case has many parallels with Hamid Nehal and Uzma Ahmed. Hamid was repatriated last year after six years in a Pakistani jail. Hamid Nehal Ansari went to Pakistan via Afghanistan after befriending a Pakistani girl whom he fell in love with. He went to Pakistan's Kohat on a fake passport in 2012 and was arrested there by security officials.

Uzma Ahmed, an Indian who was brought back in 2017 had a similar story. She fell in love with a Pakistan's Tahir Ali in Malaysia and went with him to Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa district. Later in Buner district of the province, she was asked to marry him. She managed to escape and reached the Indian High Commission and with the help of officials there came back to India.

The Pakistan foreign ministry on Thursday refused to acknowledge that an Indian woman named Tina Sharma is held captive in the country. Tina from Chandigarh had arrived in Pakistan last year on October 24, allegedly converted to Islam and married a Pakistani national.

The Pakistan foreign ministry on Thursday refused to acknowledge that an Indian woman named Tina Sharma is held captive in the country. Tina from Chandigarh had arrived in Pakistan last year on October 24, allegedly converted to Islam and married a Pakistani national. "As per our reports from ground, Tina is not kidnapped nor held captive. We will share the details once Interior ministry shares their report with us," Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal said on Thursday. Indian government in multiple note verbales to Pakistan had enquired about her and demanded that Tina should be sent back. She is believed to be in the captivity of her husband Suleman in Gujranwala, Pakistan. "We have raised this issue with Pakistan government several times. Tina is kept in captivity," Indian High Commission spokesman said in Islamabad on Monday. The case has many parallels with Hamid Nehal and Uzma Ahmed. Hamid was repatriated last year after six years in a Pakistani jail. Hamid Nehal Ansari went to Pakistan via Afghanistan after befriending a Pakistani girl whom he fell in love with. He went to Pakistan's Kohat on a fake passport in 2012 and was arrested there by security officials. Uzma Ahmed, an Indian who was brought back in 2017 had a similar story. She fell in love with a Pakistan's Tahir Ali in Malaysia and went with him to Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa district. Later in Buner district of the province, she was asked to marry him. She managed to escape and reached the Indian High Commission and with the help of officials there came back to India.

Pakistan says Indian woman Tina Sharma not in captivity, India firm to bring her back

A Baluch insurgent group on Thursday claimed responsibility for killing 14 people in southwest Pakistan, it said in a statement emailed to reporters and newspaper offices. Watch video to know more.

Balochistan attack: 15-20 assailants involved in attack

Pakistan Finance Minister Asad Umar on Thursday said he would step down from his role after discussions with Prime Minister Imran Khan about a cabinet reshuffle, suggesting he is due to leave his position.

"As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position," Umar said on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position. I strongly believe <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> is the best hope for Pakistan and inshallah will make a naya pakistan
— Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Asad_Umar/status/1118803642314842112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Umar added that he strongly believes that Khan is the best hope for Pakistan, which is currently undergoing delicate negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout to avert a balance of payments crisis.

As the finance minister of Pakistan, Umar had a major role in bringing back the economy and was negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on behalf of Pakistan government for a bailout.

After Umar made the announcement on Twitter, many users expressed their disappointment.

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Not a good decision.
— Anwar Lodhi (@AnwarLodhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnwarLodhi/status/1118810115954610176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It’s not your failure , isn’t it the failure of the government ?
— Asma Shirazi (@asmashirazi) <a href="https://twitter.com/asmashirazi/status/1118809400087588864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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While I respect your decision but I still believe that you're the BEST asset <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PTI</a> has &amp; a vast majority of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> VALUES your struggle &amp; pure intentions to make 🇵🇰 a better place to live in.👍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanZindabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanZindabad</a>
— Maleeha Hashmey (@MaleehaHashmey) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaleehaHashmey/status/1118806116526374912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As finance minister, Umar wrote letter to the Paris-based an international terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove India from the co-chair of its Asia-Pacific group. Pakistan is on the 'grey list' of the FATF for failing to curb anti-terror financing.

Imran Khan-led government and finance minister Umar in particular have faced mounting criticism by opposition parties and members of the business community over the handling of the economic crisis.

Cash-strapped Pakistan is seeking US $8 billion from the IMF to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy.

Pakistan has so far received a total of US $9.1 billion in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Finance Minister Asad Umar on Thursday said he would step down from his role after discussions with Prime Minister Imran Khan about a cabinet reshuffle, suggesting he is due to leave his position.

Pakistan Finance Minister Asad Umar on Thursday said he would step down from his role after discussions with Prime Minister Imran Khan about a cabinet reshuffle, suggesting he is due to leave his position. "As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position," Umar said on Twitter. As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position. I strongly believe @ImranKhanPTI is the best hope for Pakistan and inshallah will make a naya pakistan — Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) April 18, 2019 × Umar added that he strongly believes that Khan is the best hope for Pakistan, which is currently undergoing delicate negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout to avert a balance of payments crisis. As the finance minister of Pakistan, Umar had a major role in bringing back the economy and was negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on behalf of Pakistan government for a bailout. After Umar made the announcement on Twitter, many users expressed their disappointment. Not a good decision. — Anwar Lodhi (@AnwarLodhi) April 18, 2019 × It’s not your failure , isn’t it the failure of the government ? — Asma Shirazi (@asmashirazi) April 18, 2019 × While I respect your decision but I still believe that you're the BEST asset #PTI has & a vast majority of #Pakistan VALUES your struggle & pure intentions to make 🇵🇰 a better place to live in.👍#PakistanZindabad — Maleeha Hashmey (@MaleehaHashmey) April 18, 2019 × As finance minister, Umar wrote letter to the Paris-based an international terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove India from the co-chair of its Asia-Pacific group. Pakistan is on the 'grey list' of the FATF for failing to curb anti-terror financing. Imran Khan-led government and finance minister Umar in particular have faced mounting criticism by opposition parties and members of the business community over the handling of the economic crisis. Cash-strapped Pakistan is seeking US $8 billion from the IMF to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy. Pakistan has so far received a total of US $9.1 billion in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan finance minister Asad Umar steps down, won't take any cabinet position

A Baluch insurgent group on Thursday claimed responsibility for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/14-bus-passengers-offloaded-shot-dead-by-terrorists-in-balochistan-211389">killing 14 people in southwest Pakistan</a>, it said in a statement emailed to reporters and newspaper offices.

Fighters of Baloch Raji Aajoi Saangar carried out the killings, said the body, which described itself as an umbrella group of three Baluch separatist movements in the region, but denied that ordinary passengers had been targeted.

According to reports, the group set up in December last year targets Pakistani and Chinese military interests in restive Balochistan region where Chinese governments has hosted several projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

"Those who were targeted carried cards of the Pakistan Navy and Coast Guards, and they were only killed after they were identified," the group's spokesman, Baluch Khan, said in the statement.

Around 14 bus passengers were offloaded and shot dead by terrorists on the Makran coastal highway in Ormara, in Gwadar district of Balochistan in Pakistan.

The incident happened between 1:00 am-1:30 am. The terrorists stopped five-six buses travelling between Karachi and Gwadar, checked the identity cards of the passengers, separated a lot of labourers and then killed them.&nbsp;

Most of those killed belonged to Punjab.

A Baluch insurgent group on Thursday claimed responsibility for killing 14 people in southwest Pakistan, it said in a statement emailed to reporters and newspaper offices.

A Baluch insurgent group on Thursday claimed responsibility for killing 14 people in southwest Pakistan, it said in a statement emailed to reporters and newspaper offices. Fighters of Baloch Raji Aajoi Saangar carried out the killings, said the body, which described itself as an umbrella group of three Baluch separatist movements in the region, but denied that ordinary passengers had been targeted. According to reports, the group set up in December last year targets Pakistani and Chinese military interests in restive Balochistan region where Chinese governments has hosted several projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). "Those who were targeted carried cards of the Pakistan Navy and Coast Guards, and they were only killed after they were identified," the group's spokesman, Baluch Khan, said in the statement. Around 14 bus passengers were offloaded and shot dead by terrorists on the Makran coastal highway in Ormara, in Gwadar district of Balochistan in Pakistan. The incident happened between 1:00 am-1:30 am. The terrorists stopped five-six buses travelling between Karachi and Gwadar, checked the identity cards of the passengers, separated a lot of labourers and then killed them. Most of those killed belonged to Punjab.

Local insurgent group claims responsibility for Balochistan bus attack

Last month, India had postponed the second India-Pakistan official talks on Kartarpur corridor after New Delhi raised concerns over the presence of Khalistanis on Pakistan's committee that will oversee the implementation of the corridor.

Kartarpur corridor: Second India-Pak technical talks conclude

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