India dismisses any chance of dialogue at any level with Pakistan: Sources

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday hit out at Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for playing the nuclear and Muslim cards against India and denounced Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfits, describing these as “demon” outfits.

Attacking Khan, he said the Pakistan Prime Minister makes “weird” comments in his country’s Parliament.“He (Khan) says we have atom bomb, etc. Do we not have those? We also have,” Owaisi said addressing a gathering in Hyderabad.

He also asked Khan to desist from playing the Muslim card to target India.“Muslims of this country know better. Handle your ‘Lashkar-e-Shaitaan’ (a reference to Lashkar-e-Taiba) and Jaish-e-Shaitaan (a reference to Jaish-e-Mohammad),” the Lok Sabha member said, in his message to the Pakistan Prime Minister.

The Muslim leader also denounced JeM chief Masood Azhar, saying he should not be called a “Maulana” but a “devil’s dog and butcher of humanity”.

“Exploding bombs, attacking people is not Islam,” the MP from Hyderabad said, adding “India’s enemies are our (Muslims’) enemies too.”

Owaisi also slammed Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi who said yesterday that Masood Azhar is in Pakistan but “too ill”.

“He (Qureshi) asked for evidence. What more evidence do they need? His organisation (Jaish-e-Mohammad) is banned,” he said.

Owaisi said Khan was also misrepresenting the role of Tipu Sultan and Bahadur Shah Zafar in his speeches.

“Tipu Sultan was never against Hindus but against the regimes, whosoever led those,” he said.

He expressed happiness over the return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, was in Pakistan’s captivity after his MiG-21 fighter plane was shot down on February 27.

The AIMIM chief also went on to add, “We praised the government over air strikes (on JeM camp in Balakot) in response to the Pulwama terror attack. But, now the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) needs to answer, how the terrorists were able to procure explosives? How they got hold of American weapons? Why was there intelligence and diplomatic failures? ”

Addressing a gathering in Hyderabad on the occasion of 61st revival day of AIMIM, he said, “Sixty years ago, at this very place, Jinnah came. We didn’t accept Jinnah’s message. We said India is our country.Those who understood Islam, stayed in India while the ‘razakars’ (volunteers), who adhered to the message of Mohammad Ali Jinnah, went to Pakistan,” the AIMIM chief said.

Owaisi also claimed that all sorts of allegations were levelled against him in the last four years. “What was our mistake? Are we against Hindus? Are we against Dalits?” he questioned.

“You may doubt because I am a Muslim but if BJP is saying ‘mera booth, sabse mazboot (my booth is the strongest), then I am saying ‘mera sarhad majboot toh desh mazboot (if my borders are protected, then my country is protected’.

So when you vote, keep in mind what is good for the nation and not the strength of someone’s booth,” AIMIM chief told the gathering. He also vowed to `finish BJP from Secundarabad and Congress from entire Telangana`.

&nbsp;

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday hit out at Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for playing the nuclear and Muslim cards against India and denounced Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfits, describing these as “demon” outfits.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday hit out at Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for playing the nuclear and Muslim cards against India and denounced Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfits, describing these as “demon” outfits. Attacking Khan, he said the Pakistan Prime Minister makes “weird” comments in his country’s Parliament.“He (Khan) says we have atom bomb, etc. Do we not have those? We also have,” Owaisi said addressing a gathering in Hyderabad. He also asked Khan to desist from playing the Muslim card to target India.“Muslims of this country know better. Handle your ‘Lashkar-e-Shaitaan’ (a reference to Lashkar-e-Taiba) and Jaish-e-Shaitaan (a reference to Jaish-e-Mohammad),” the Lok Sabha member said, in his message to the Pakistan Prime Minister. The Muslim leader also denounced JeM chief Masood Azhar, saying he should not be called a “Maulana” but a “devil’s dog and butcher of humanity”. “Exploding bombs, attacking people is not Islam,” the MP from Hyderabad said, adding “India’s enemies are our (Muslims’) enemies too.” Owaisi also slammed Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi who said yesterday that Masood Azhar is in Pakistan but “too ill”. “He (Qureshi) asked for evidence. What more evidence do they need? His organisation (Jaish-e-Mohammad) is banned,” he said. Owaisi said Khan was also misrepresenting the role of Tipu Sultan and Bahadur Shah Zafar in his speeches. “Tipu Sultan was never against Hindus but against the regimes, whosoever led those,” he said. He expressed happiness over the return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, was in Pakistan’s captivity after his MiG-21 fighter plane was shot down on February 27. The AIMIM chief also went on to add, “We praised the government over air strikes (on JeM camp in Balakot) in response to the Pulwama terror attack. But, now the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) needs to answer, how the terrorists were able to procure explosives? How they got hold of American weapons? Why was there intelligence and diplomatic failures? ” Addressing a gathering in Hyderabad on the occasion of 61st revival day of AIMIM, he said, “Sixty years ago, at this very place, Jinnah came. We didn’t accept Jinnah’s message. We said India is our country.Those who understood Islam, stayed in India while the ‘razakars’ (volunteers), who adhered to the message of Mohammad Ali Jinnah, went to Pakistan,” the AIMIM chief said. Owaisi also claimed that all sorts of allegations were levelled against him in the last four years. “What was our mistake? Are we against Hindus? Are we against Dalits?” he questioned. “You may doubt because I am a Muslim but if BJP is saying ‘mera booth, sabse mazboot (my booth is the strongest), then I am saying ‘mera sarhad majboot toh desh mazboot (if my borders are protected, then my country is protected’. So when you vote, keep in mind what is good for the nation and not the strength of someone’s booth,” AIMIM chief told the gathering. He also vowed to `finish BJP from Secundarabad and Congress from entire Telangana`.

Exploding bombs, attacking people is not Islam: Asaduddin Owaisi to Masood Azhar

India has made it clear, that it will not talk to Islamabad unless it takes immediate and verifiable action against terrorism emanating from territories under its control. A source told WION, it is Pakistan that has to create a "conducive environment" for talks.

The development comes as part of New Delhi's long-standing policy that talks and terror cannot go together.&nbsp;

Reiterating India's stance, Indian Ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Varma said in an interview to a Russian news agency, "New Delhi is ready for a dialogue with Pakistan when Islamabad can take really serious actions to combat terrorist groups".

Islamabad is facing global isolation from New York to Abu Dhabi to Paris. In New York, France along with Russia, US and UK have backed the proposal to list Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) as an international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council. JeM was responsible for the Pulwama terror attack in which more than 40 personnel of the CRPF were killed.

In Abu Dhabi, India was the Guest of Honour at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and despite Pakistan's insistence that invite to Delhi should be cancelled, the pleas were not taken into consideration. Without naming Pakistan, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj who represented India said, "If we want to save the humanity then we must tell the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists, to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations, based in their country."&nbsp;

In Paris during the FATF meet(Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism ), Pakistan received an admonition with the country being asked to take make more efforts to combat the terrorist groups based on its territory.

India has made it clear, that it will not talk to Islamabad unless it takes immediate and verifiable action against terrorism emanating from territories under its control.

India has made it clear, that it will not talk to Islamabad unless it takes immediate and verifiable action against terrorism emanating from territories under its control. A source told WION, it is Pakistan that has to create a "conducive environment" for talks. The development comes as part of New Delhi's long-standing policy that talks and terror cannot go together. Reiterating India's stance, Indian Ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Varma said in an interview to a Russian news agency, "New Delhi is ready for a dialogue with Pakistan when Islamabad can take really serious actions to combat terrorist groups". Islamabad is facing global isolation from New York to Abu Dhabi to Paris. In New York, France along with Russia, US and UK have backed the proposal to list Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) as an international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council. JeM was responsible for the Pulwama terror attack in which more than 40 personnel of the CRPF were killed. In Abu Dhabi, India was the Guest of Honour at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and despite Pakistan's insistence that invite to Delhi should be cancelled, the pleas were not taken into consideration. Without naming Pakistan, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj who represented India said, "If we want to save the humanity then we must tell the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists, to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations, based in their country." In Paris during the FATF meet(Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism ), Pakistan received an admonition with the country being asked to take make more efforts to combat the terrorist groups based on its territory.

New Delhi asks Pakistan to create conducive environment for talks by shunning support to terror

India did not negotiate any deal to bring back its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-not-face-any-physical-torture-but-went-through-a-lot-of-mental-harassment-abhinandan-on-his-captivity-in-pakistan-200734">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman </a>and Pakistan on its accord announced that it will return him back, Government sources told WION.

Pakistan on Wednesday launched strikes against Indian military installations. About 20 Pakistani Air Force aircraft launched the attack at 9.45 am, out of which Indian Airforce downed one of PAF's F16 using its MiG 21. In the aerial combat, Abhinandan's aircraft was shot and he was captured.

India was firm that there will not be any repetition of Kandahar of 1999 in which an entire nation was "held ransom". New Delhi was clear from the start, Pakistan has to send back its Air Force personnel immediately and treat him in a humane manner. India also did not demand any consular access.

The Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday, just a day after his capture announced in the Parliament that he will be released.

He arrived in India on Friday and was taken from Amritsar to Delhi's Army hospital where he underwent a full body check-up. Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Air Force Chief Birender Singh Dhanoa both met Abhinandan.

The Defence Ministry in a statement said, "Raksha Mantri met Wing Commander Abhinandan at RR hospital, interacted and enquired about his health. The officer was in high spirit and was happy to meet RM".

Wing Commander's family was also present when the Defence minister was present.

The Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in the Pakistani Parliament on Friday had said Abhinandan will be released in the afternoon, but this was delayed by the Pakistani side and he finally came to India at 9.21 PM on Friday via the Wagah border.

India did not negotiate any deal to bring back its Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman and Pakistan on its accord announced that it will return him back, Government sources told WION.

India did not negotiate any deal to bring back its Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman and Pakistan on its accord announced that it will return him back, Government sources told WION. Pakistan on Wednesday launched strikes against Indian military installations. About 20 Pakistani Air Force aircraft launched the attack at 9.45 am, out of which Indian Airforce downed one of PAF's F16 using its MiG 21. In the aerial combat, Abhinandan's aircraft was shot and he was captured. India was firm that there will not be any repetition of Kandahar of 1999 in which an entire nation was "held ransom". New Delhi was clear from the start, Pakistan has to send back its Air Force personnel immediately and treat him in a humane manner. India also did not demand any consular access. The Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday, just a day after his capture announced in the Parliament that he will be released. He arrived in India on Friday and was taken from Amritsar to Delhi's Army hospital where he underwent a full body check-up. Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Air Force Chief Birender Singh Dhanoa both met Abhinandan. The Defence Ministry in a statement said, "Raksha Mantri met Wing Commander Abhinandan at RR hospital, interacted and enquired about his health. The officer was in high spirit and was happy to meet RM". Wing Commander's family was also present when the Defence minister was present. The Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in the Pakistani Parliament on Friday had said Abhinandan will be released in the afternoon, but this was delayed by the Pakistani side and he finally came to India at 9.21 PM on Friday via the Wagah border.

No deal was negotiated to get Abhinandan back: Government sources to WION

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Abhinandan's moustache takes internet by storm

A day after he was returned from captivity, sources have said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-week-that-was-timeline-of-india-pak-powerplay-leading-to-iaf-pilot-abhinandan-varthamans-release-200686">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman</a> was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis but that he went through a lot of mental harassment.&nbsp;

The news agency ANI reported the sources as saying that after returning from Pakistan, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman has informed that though he was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis, he went through a lot of mental harassment.&nbsp;

ANI did not say who the sources were.&nbsp;

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Sources: After returning from Pakistan, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman has informed that though he was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis; he went through a lot of mental harassment. <a href="https://t.co/x7C3lFsrSR">pic.twitter.com/x7C3lFsrSR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1101826679037743104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Abhinandan had been beaten by locals after his MiG 21 Bison was shot down on Wednesday in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He was later rescued by Pakistani Army personnel.&nbsp;

Abhinandan had taken down a Pakistani F-16 before being shot down.&nbsp;

Abhinandan is currently undergoing a series of medical tests, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-meets-wing-commander-abhinandan-he-is-currently-undergoing-cooling-process-200730">a "cooling down" process</a> at the&nbsp;Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. The "cooling down" will continue till Sunday. Once the health check-up is over, officials said, Abhinandan will be debriefed.&nbsp;

A day after he was returned from captivity, sources have said Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis but that he went through a lot of mental harassment.

A day after he was returned from captivity, sources have said Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis but that he went through a lot of mental harassment. The news agency ANI reported the sources as saying that after returning from Pakistan, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman has informed that though he was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis, he went through a lot of mental harassment. ANI did not say who the sources were. Sources: After returning from Pakistan, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman has informed that though he was not physically tortured by the Pakistanis; he went through a lot of mental harassment. pic.twitter.com/x7C3lFsrSR — ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2019 × Abhinandan had been beaten by locals after his MiG 21 Bison was shot down on Wednesday in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He was later rescued by Pakistani Army personnel. Abhinandan had taken down a Pakistani F-16 before being shot down. Abhinandan is currently undergoing a series of medical tests, a "cooling down" process at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. The "cooling down" will continue till Sunday. Once the health check-up is over, officials said, Abhinandan will be debriefed.

Not physically tortured but Wing Commander Abhinandan went through a lot of mental harassment: Sources

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - 2nd March, 2019

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IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman reaches India

India has highlighted to Russia how a MiG-21 brought down a Pakistani F-16 in its recent skirmish with Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Mig-21 is a Russian-made plane first produced in 1959. The F-16 is American-made and was first produced in 1978.&nbsp;

In an interview to the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Indian Ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma said, &nbsp;"India was forced to defend its interests, including through the use of MiG-21 fighter aircraft supplied by Russia, which brought down the Pakistani F-16."

In response to India's counter-terrorism operation in Pakistan on Tuesday, Islamabad launched a large-scale air force raid into Indian airspace. The Pakistani operation was aimed at Indian military installations.

In the skirmish that followed, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16. Abhinandan's MiG-21 Bison was later shot down and he was captured.&nbsp;

The MiG-21 Bison is a single engine, single-seater, multi-role fighter aircraft of Russian origin and forms the backbone of the Indian Air Force.

India is the largest operator of the MiG-21, which also played an important role in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

Ambassador Varma also clarified that there is no Russian offer to mediate between India and Pakistan and even if Moscow proposes one, New Delhi will not accept it.

"I want to emphasise that we did not receive a formal offer of mediation. And even we do, we will not accept it. So far, no country has offered to mediate in resolving the conflict," Varma said.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Office said Friday, after a call by Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, that Moscow had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan.

Varma, in the interview, thanked Moscow for its support to a proposal last week to list Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief as an international terrorist under the United Nations Security Council 1267 committee.

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to PM Modi on Thursday expressing his deep condolences on the Pulwama terror attack and conveying his solidarity with New Delhi in its fight against terrorism.

President Putin also invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. This is for the second time this year, PM Modi and President Putin spoke to each other.

India has highlighted to Russia how a MiG-21 brought down a Pakistani F-16 in its recent skirmish with Pakistan. The Mig-21 is a Russian-made plane first produced in 1959.

India has highlighted to Russia how a MiG-21 brought down a Pakistani F-16 in its recent skirmish with Pakistan. The Mig-21 is a Russian-made plane first produced in 1959. The F-16 is American-made and was first produced in 1978. In an interview to the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Indian Ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "India was forced to defend its interests, including through the use of MiG-21 fighter aircraft supplied by Russia, which brought down the Pakistani F-16." In response to India's counter-terrorism operation in Pakistan on Tuesday, Islamabad launched a large-scale air force raid into Indian airspace. The Pakistani operation was aimed at Indian military installations. In the skirmish that followed, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16. Abhinandan's MiG-21 Bison was later shot down and he was captured. The MiG-21 Bison is a single engine, single-seater, multi-role fighter aircraft of Russian origin and forms the backbone of the Indian Air Force. India is the largest operator of the MiG-21, which also played an important role in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Ambassador Varma also clarified that there is no Russian offer to mediate between India and Pakistan and even if Moscow proposes one, New Delhi will not accept it. "I want to emphasise that we did not receive a formal offer of mediation. And even we do, we will not accept it. So far, no country has offered to mediate in resolving the conflict," Varma said. Pakistan's Foreign Office said Friday, after a call by Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, that Moscow had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan. Varma, in the interview, thanked Moscow for its support to a proposal last week to list Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief as an international terrorist under the United Nations Security Council 1267 committee. Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to PM Modi on Thursday expressing his deep condolences on the Pulwama terror attack and conveying his solidarity with New Delhi in its fight against terrorism. President Putin also invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. This is for the second time this year, PM Modi and President Putin spoke to each other.

Russia has not offered to mediate between India & Pakistan: Indian envoy to Russia

A resolution was submitted in Pakistan Parliament on Saturday to endorse <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-a-peace-gesture-we-are-releasing-captured-pilot-tomorrow-pm-imran-khan-200295">Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan</a> for the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize due to his efforts to de-escalate resent tension with India.&nbsp;

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry Saturday submitted the resolution in the secretariat of National Assembly, the lower house.

The resolution stated that Khan's decision of releasing Indian Air Force pilot <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-now-meaning-of-abhinandan-will-change-pm-modi-200645">Wing Commander Abhinandan</a> has de-escalated the hostility between Pakistan and India.

According to the resolution, Khan acted responsibly in the current tension and "deserves the Nobel Peace Prize".

The resolution is expected to be taken up on Monday when it is scheduled to convene its session.

It is also expected to be passed as the government has majority in the House but it will be interesting to see if main opposition parties support the move.&nbsp;

A resolution was submitted in Pakistan Parliament on Saturday to endorse Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan for the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize due to his efforts to de-escalate resent tension with India.

A resolution was submitted in Pakistan Parliament on Saturday to endorse Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan for the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize due to his efforts to de-escalate resent tension with India. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry Saturday submitted the resolution in the secretariat of National Assembly, the lower house. The resolution stated that Khan's decision of releasing Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan has de-escalated the hostility between Pakistan and India. According to the resolution, Khan acted responsibly in the current tension and "deserves the Nobel Peace Prize". The resolution is expected to be taken up on Monday when it is scheduled to convene its session. It is also expected to be passed as the government has majority in the House but it will be interesting to see if main opposition parties support the move.

Resolution submitted in Pakistan parliament to endorse PM Imran Khan for Nobel Peace Prize 

Pakistan MI, ISI planning to mix poison in ration of forces, J&K CID issues warning

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India at OIC: A Major Diplomatic Victory

Imran Khan’s offer to return the Indian fighter pilot in their custody has once again triggered a debate about how to deal with a neighbour whose conduct rekindles memories of the strange case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. And what we do to protect ourselves from an unpredictable neighbour who turns hot and cold in a blink? &nbsp;

There is a poem by Robert Frost that tells us that strong fences make good neighbours. How one wishes that those in charge of our foreign policy had pondered on the wisdom of these words. Now it is too late to mend badly breached fences. India has wasted too much time and effort chasing the mirage of living in peace with a neighbour with whom we don’t share much anymore.

It’s the fatal nostalgia of the pre-partition refugees that has caused most of the havoc. The memories of a childhood spent in a village across the Ravi or any other river in Punjab or carefree student days in Lahore have fueled futile dreams of unhindered passage from one country to another.

These dreams have changed into nightmares more than once because we choose to remain blind to ground reality. It’s not just that Pakistan is a theocratic state and we are secular or they are ruled by the armed forces and we are a democracy.&nbsp;

Ever since the reign of General Zia, the spread of fanatical aggressive version of Wahabi Islam has changed the whole context of our bilateral relations. Two generations have grown up in Pakistan and India who have shared memories only of clashes on the battlefield and cricket pitches. You may argue that that love for Bollywood, shared taste in food continue to act as strong glue between the two people divided in 1947 but we fool no one but ourselves.&nbsp; 
 
When it comes to war and peace it is the coincidence or conflict of national interest that is decisive. It is impossible to overlook that India and Pakistan have followed divergent trajectories for decades. Pakistan had opted long before its break up in 1971 to look West. 
 
It's forged close relationships with Saudi Arabia, Libya and other oil-rich fundamentalist countries that funded its nuclear programme. But more grace from Indians point of view is the alliance it has skillfully reinforced with People's Republic of China. China has stood steadfast with Pakistan since 1962. One may chant ad nauseam that in international relations there are no permanent friend and no eternal enemies but the enduring strategic ties between Pakistan and China seem to refute Palmerston effectively.&nbsp;

The enmity between India and Pakistan has not really abated despite numerous confidence-building measures and countless rounds of talks at various levels. What explains the failure of diplomacy is the basic incompatibility of national interests defined in terms of vested interests of ruling elites.&nbsp; 
 
When we talk of neighbours and friends we should not forget that the power equations are unbalanced by distant friends tilting the balance in favour of proximate neighbours. A former President of Pakistan had titled his autobiography as ‘Friends not Masters’ but the harsh reality is that it is the 'Puppet Master' who has been pulling the strings from behind not so opaque a curtain since the years of Cold War. Pakistan remains an invaluable strategic asset for both the US and China. We should not hasten to rejoice that both have admonished Pakistan after Pulwama.&nbsp;

China has advised both its friends to respect the concept of sovereignty and the POTUS has grandly pronounced that he is confident that good sense will prevail on both sides to deescalate. The majority of members of the Security Council have agreed on a resolution naming Masood Azhar as an international terrorist. In past, China has blocked all such moves to save Pakistan from embarrassment. It may do so again. What are India’s options if this happens?

With the passage of time, Pakistan has succeeded in transforming bilateral disputes with India into trilateral issues. China’s OBOR project passing through POK is just one example, hyphenating Af-Pak has muddied water further. Its sanctions against Iran have tightened the role on which India is walking.&nbsp; 
 
Cancer treatment isn’t based on surgical strikes. Chemotherapy is not done without painful after effects and grave hazards. No one can in his wildest dreams dare utter the word radiation. You can’t nuke the malignancy in this case. Haste can only result in waste. Slow and Steady should be the resolve.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

Imran Khan’s offer to return the Indian fighter pilot in their custody has once again triggered a debate about how to deal with a neighbour whose conduct rekindles memories of the strange case of Dr.

Imran Khan’s offer to return the Indian fighter pilot in their custody has once again triggered a debate about how to deal with a neighbour whose conduct rekindles memories of the strange case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. And what we do to protect ourselves from an unpredictable neighbour who turns hot and cold in a blink? There is a poem by Robert Frost that tells us that strong fences make good neighbours. How one wishes that those in charge of our foreign policy had pondered on the wisdom of these words. Now it is too late to mend badly breached fences. India has wasted too much time and effort chasing the mirage of living in peace with a neighbour with whom we don’t share much anymore. It’s the fatal nostalgia of the pre-partition refugees that has caused most of the havoc. The memories of a childhood spent in a village across the Ravi or any other river in Punjab or carefree student days in Lahore have fueled futile dreams of unhindered passage from one country to another. These dreams have changed into nightmares more than once because we choose to remain blind to ground reality. It’s not just that Pakistan is a theocratic state and we are secular or they are ruled by the armed forces and we are a democracy. Ever since the reign of General Zia, the spread of fanatical aggressive version of Wahabi Islam has changed the whole context of our bilateral relations. Two generations have grown up in Pakistan and India who have shared memories only of clashes on the battlefield and cricket pitches. You may argue that that love for Bollywood, shared taste in food continue to act as strong glue between the two people divided in 1947 but we fool no one but ourselves. When it comes to war and peace it is the coincidence or conflict of national interest that is decisive. It is impossible to overlook that India and Pakistan have followed divergent trajectories for decades. Pakistan had opted long before its break up in 1971 to look West. It's forged close relationships with Saudi Arabia, Libya and other oil-rich fundamentalist countries that funded its nuclear programme. But more grace from Indians point of view is the alliance it has skillfully reinforced with People's Republic of China. China has stood steadfast with Pakistan since 1962. One may chant ad nauseam that in international relations there are no permanent friend and no eternal enemies but the enduring strategic ties between Pakistan and China seem to refute Palmerston effectively. The enmity between India and Pakistan has not really abated despite numerous confidence-building measures and countless rounds of talks at various levels. What explains the failure of diplomacy is the basic incompatibility of national interests defined in terms of vested interests of ruling elites. When we talk of neighbours and friends we should not forget that the power equations are unbalanced by distant friends tilting the balance in favour of proximate neighbours. A former President of Pakistan had titled his autobiography as ‘Friends not Masters’ but the harsh reality is that it is the 'Puppet Master' who has been pulling the strings from behind not so opaque a curtain since the years of Cold War. Pakistan remains an invaluable strategic asset for both the US and China. We should not hasten to rejoice that both have admonished Pakistan after Pulwama. China has advised both its friends to respect the concept of sovereignty and the POTUS has grandly pronounced that he is confident that good sense will prevail on both sides to deescalate. The majority of members of the Security Council have agreed on a resolution naming Masood Azhar as an international terrorist. In past, China has blocked all such moves to save Pakistan from embarrassment. It may do so again. What are India’s options if this happens? With the passage of time, Pakistan has succeeded in transforming bilateral disputes with India into trilateral issues. China’s OBOR project passing through POK is just one example, hyphenating Af-Pak has muddied water further. Its sanctions against Iran have tightened the role on which India is walking. Cancer treatment isn’t based on surgical strikes. Chemotherapy is not done without painful after effects and grave hazards. No one can in his wildest dreams dare utter the word radiation. You can’t nuke the malignancy in this case. Haste can only result in waste. Slow and Steady should be the resolve. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pakistan has long been an unpredictable and unreliable neighbour

Pakistan's annual consumer price inflation surged to 8.21 per cent in February from 7.19 per cent a month earlier, the Bureau of Statistics said on Friday.

On a month-on-month basis, prices increased by 0.64 per cent in February, it said.

The data comes after five currency devaluations since December 2016 by the central bank, weakening the Pakistani rupee by 26 per cent against the dollar during that period.

Rising food prices, including a 150 per cent jump in the price of tomatoes, were the main reason for the accelerating inflation, the bureau said.

Pakistan's annual consumer price inflation surged to 8.21 per cent in February from 7.19 per cent a month earlier, the Bureau of Statistics said on Friday. On a month-on-month basis, prices increased by 0.

Pakistan's annual consumer price inflation surged to 8.21 per cent in February from 7.19 per cent a month earlier, the Bureau of Statistics said on Friday. On a month-on-month basis, prices increased by 0.64 per cent in February, it said. The data comes after five currency devaluations since December 2016 by the central bank, weakening the Pakistani rupee by 26 per cent against the dollar during that period. Rising food prices, including a 150 per cent jump in the price of tomatoes, were the main reason for the accelerating inflation, the bureau said.

Pakistan annual inflation accelerates to 8.21% in February: Bureau of Statistics

Pakistan which had earlier&nbsp;announced its boycott from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/swaraj-discusses-bilateral-issues-with-her-maldivian-bangladeshi-counterparts-at-oic-meet-200538">presence of India</a>, clarified on Friday that it is the Foreign Minister who will boycott the meet as the&nbsp;Representatives of Pak Embassy Abu Dhabi will attend the meeting.

Pakistan Foreign Minister&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-boycotts-islamic-cooperation-meet-over-indias-presence-200455">Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> had said&nbsp;earlier, "I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet."

He had however added that a lower level official from the Pakistan&nbsp;government will be present in the meet.

"Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it," he added.

Qureshi had also written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-oic-sushma-swaraj-highlights-indias-diversity-slams-pakistan-for-its-support-to-terror-200512">India</a> or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi.

In in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan.

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is participating in the IOC meeting. This is the first time India has been invited as a guest of honour at the OIC.

Pakistan which had earlier announced its boycott from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet over the presence of India, clarified on Friday that it is the Foreign Minister who will boycott the meet as the Representatives of Pak Embassy Abu Dhabi will attend the meeting.

Pakistan which had earlier announced its boycott from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet over the presence of India, clarified on Friday that it is the Foreign Minister who will boycott the meet as the Representatives of Pak Embassy Abu Dhabi will attend the meeting. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said earlier, "I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet." He had however added that a lower level official from the Pakistan government will be present in the meet. "Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it," he added. Qureshi had also written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi. In in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan. Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is participating in the IOC meeting. This is the first time India has been invited as a guest of honour at the OIC.

Representatives of Pakistan embassy in Abu Dhabi to attend OIC meet 

Pakistan to release IAF pilot Abhinandan shortly

Pakistan to soon release IAF pilot Abhinandan to Indian officials

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-iaf-pilot-captain-abhinandans-homecoming-from-pakistan-200416">Live updates: IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman set to cross Wagah border shortly</a>

Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commmander Abhinandan Varthaman will be crossing the Wagah border in a few minutes as a large crowd gathers to welcome him amid heavy security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-awaits-pilots-return-beating-the-retreat-ceremony-cancelled-at-wagah-border-200496">Beating the Retreat ceremony cancelled at Wagah border</a>

As Indian authorities wait for&nbsp;captured Indian pilot to return home, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-for-eighth-consecutive-day-200530">Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day</a>

The ceasefire was violated in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours today where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/welcome-goodwill-signal-pakistan-has-always-been-opposed-to-terrorism-china-200500">Welcome goodwill signal, Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism: China</a>

China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the&nbsp;Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged&nbsp;the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-84-people-two-thirds-young-children-died-on-way-to-al-hol-camp-in-syria-un-200531">At least 84 people, two-thirds young children, died on way to al-Hol camp in Syria: UN</a>

At least 84 people,&nbsp;two-thirds of them young children, have died since December on their way to al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria after fleeing Islamic State in the Deir al-Zor region, the United Nations said on Friday.

&nbsp;

Live updates: IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman set to cross Wagah border shortly Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commmander Abhinandan Varthaman will be crossing the Wagah border in a few minutes as a large crowd gathers to welcome him amid heavy security.

Live updates: IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman set to cross Wagah border shortly Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commmander Abhinandan Varthaman will be crossing the Wagah border in a few minutes as a large crowd gathers to welcome him amid heavy security. Beating the Retreat ceremony cancelled at Wagah border As Indian authorities wait for captured Indian pilot to return home, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today. Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day The ceasefire was violated in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours today where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing. Welcome goodwill signal, Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism: China China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability. At least 84 people, two-thirds young children, died on way to al-Hol camp in Syria: UN At least 84 people, two-thirds of them young children, have died since December on their way to al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria after fleeing Islamic State in the Deir al-Zor region, the United Nations said on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India eagerly awaits IAF pilot Abhinandan to walk back via Attari-Wagah border

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strike-heres-why-balakot-was-chosen-by-indian-air-force-199792">terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot</a> in Pakistan.

BJP's state president Dilip Ghosh also criticised her saying it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani one, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike.

"It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics, a chief minister is doubting our armed forces, when the entire country stands by the armed forces. We condemn such statements," Vijayvergiya told reporters on the sidelines of a party meeting here.

Banerjee Thursday said the nation has a right to know what actually happened at Balakot in Pakistan following the IAF's air strike there, as several foreign media had reported that not much damage was done by the air strike.

She had said, "We have the right to know, people of this country want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?"

Government officials had said on Tuesday that in a pre-dawn strike, the IAF bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp at Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders.

Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack that left over 40 CRPF jawans dead on February 14.

It was up to the political leadership to decide when and how to release evidence of the Balakot strike's success, Air Vice Marshal R G K Kapoor, assistant chief of Air Staff, said Thursday on the scepticism in some quarters about whether IAF fighters had hit the intended targets.

State BJP president Dilip Ghosh too slammed Banerjee, also Trinamool Congress supremo, for asking for evidence of the success of the air strike.

"Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, and that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Ghosh said.

Vijayvergiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from the custody of Pakistan is a diplomatic victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"It is a diplomatic victory of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/iafs-balakot-operation-against-jem-is-proof-of-narendra-modi-governments-decisiveness-199973">Narendra Modiji</a> that for last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been wishing to talk to our prime minister. But our PM said first Pakistan has to release our pilot and stop exporting terrorism. This is our diplomatic victory," Vijayvergiya said.

Pakistan held Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman Wednesday after fighter jets of both the nations engaged in an air battle following an unsuccessful attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes. The pilot is scheduled to return via Attari border Friday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced in a joint session of Pakistani Parliament that the pilot would be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot in Pakistan.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot in Pakistan. BJP's state president Dilip Ghosh also criticised her saying it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani one, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike. "It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics, a chief minister is doubting our armed forces, when the entire country stands by the armed forces. We condemn such statements," Vijayvergiya told reporters on the sidelines of a party meeting here. Banerjee Thursday said the nation has a right to know what actually happened at Balakot in Pakistan following the IAF's air strike there, as several foreign media had reported that not much damage was done by the air strike. She had said, "We have the right to know, people of this country want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?" Government officials had said on Tuesday that in a pre-dawn strike, the IAF bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp at Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack that left over 40 CRPF jawans dead on February 14. It was up to the political leadership to decide when and how to release evidence of the Balakot strike's success, Air Vice Marshal R G K Kapoor, assistant chief of Air Staff, said Thursday on the scepticism in some quarters about whether IAF fighters had hit the intended targets. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh too slammed Banerjee, also Trinamool Congress supremo, for asking for evidence of the success of the air strike. "Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, and that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Ghosh said. Vijayvergiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from the custody of Pakistan is a diplomatic victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "It is a diplomatic victory of Narendra Modiji that for last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been wishing to talk to our prime minister. But our PM said first Pakistan has to release our pilot and stop exporting terrorism. This is our diplomatic victory," Vijayvergiya said. Pakistan held Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman Wednesday after fighter jets of both the nations engaged in an air battle following an unsuccessful attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes. The pilot is scheduled to return via Attari border Friday. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced in a joint session of Pakistani Parliament that the pilot would be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

BJP leader Vijayvergiya slams Mamata for 'doubting' success of air strike in Balakot

For the Varthamans, flying the MiG-21 fighter aircraft is a sort of family tradition.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-iaf-pilot-captain-abhinandans-homecoming-from-pakistan-200416">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman </a>downed a Pakistani F-16 plane before his MiG-21 Bison was hit during a dogfight.

His father Air Marshal (retd) Simhakutty Varthaman also flew the MiG-21s and was an IAF test pilot, who retired five years ago, a family friend said in Mumbai on Friday.

Abhinandan's grandfather was also in the IAF, he said.

In an interview to PTI, Wing Commander (retd) Prakash Navale, who was a course-mate of Abhinandan's father at the National Defence Academy (NDA) during 1969-72, said the first time he saw the young pilot, held captive by Pakistan, was when he was a three-year-old toddler.

"Myself and his father were then posted at the fighter training wing at Hakimpet, Hyderabad," said Navale, 66, who retired from the IAF in 1994 and now lives in Navi Mumbai.

"Initially, I also passed out (from Air Force Academy) as a fighter pilot but later switched to helicopters. Myself and Air Marshal (retd) Varthaman were flying instructors for some time," he said.

Like Navale, Air Marshal Varthaman is also a Sainik School alumnus. While Navale studied at Sainik School Satara, Air Mashal Varthaman is from Sainik School Amaravathinagar in Tamil Nadu.

Navale said Air Marshal Varthaman was staying at Tambaram when he was doing the flying instructor's course there. "The Varthamans are very simple people and we have enjoyed many a hearty meal at their house," he said.

"Air Marshal Varthaman is a through gentleman. His wife Shobha, a doctor, is a great lady. When my wife Aruna was pregnant, she used to visit us regularly and administer injections to her. We were blessed with our daughter Pooja due to Shobha's medical care," Navale said.

Abhinandan's sister Aditi lives in France and has married a French national, he said.

In 1982, Navale, then Flight Lieutenant, was awarded the 'Shaurya Chakra' for saving the life of then Odisha chief minister J B Patnaik from mob fury in Gopalpur.

The award citation read: In this action, Flight Lieutenant Prakash Navale displayed determination, courage and presence of mind. Had he not flown out the VIP at that critical time, the situation could have taken a grave turn and could have resulted in serious consequences to the VIP and further break-down in the law and order situation.&nbsp;

For the Varthamans, flying the MiG-21 fighter aircraft is a sort of family tradition. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman downed a Pakistani F-16 plane before his MiG-21 Bison was hit during a dogfight.

For the Varthamans, flying the MiG-21 fighter aircraft is a sort of family tradition. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman downed a Pakistani F-16 plane before his MiG-21 Bison was hit during a dogfight. His father Air Marshal (retd) Simhakutty Varthaman also flew the MiG-21s and was an IAF test pilot, who retired five years ago, a family friend said in Mumbai on Friday. Abhinandan's grandfather was also in the IAF, he said. In an interview to PTI, Wing Commander (retd) Prakash Navale, who was a course-mate of Abhinandan's father at the National Defence Academy (NDA) during 1969-72, said the first time he saw the young pilot, held captive by Pakistan, was when he was a three-year-old toddler. "Myself and his father were then posted at the fighter training wing at Hakimpet, Hyderabad," said Navale, 66, who retired from the IAF in 1994 and now lives in Navi Mumbai. "Initially, I also passed out (from Air Force Academy) as a fighter pilot but later switched to helicopters. Myself and Air Marshal (retd) Varthaman were flying instructors for some time," he said. Like Navale, Air Marshal Varthaman is also a Sainik School alumnus. While Navale studied at Sainik School Satara, Air Mashal Varthaman is from Sainik School Amaravathinagar in Tamil Nadu. Navale said Air Marshal Varthaman was staying at Tambaram when he was doing the flying instructor's course there. "The Varthamans are very simple people and we have enjoyed many a hearty meal at their house," he said. "Air Marshal Varthaman is a through gentleman. His wife Shobha, a doctor, is a great lady. When my wife Aruna was pregnant, she used to visit us regularly and administer injections to her. We were blessed with our daughter Pooja due to Shobha's medical care," Navale said. Abhinandan's sister Aditi lives in France and has married a French national, he said. In 1982, Navale, then Flight Lieutenant, was awarded the 'Shaurya Chakra' for saving the life of then Odisha chief minister J B Patnaik from mob fury in Gopalpur. The award citation read: In this action, Flight Lieutenant Prakash Navale displayed determination, courage and presence of mind. Had he not flown out the VIP at that critical time, the situation could have taken a grave turn and could have resulted in serious consequences to the VIP and further break-down in the law and order situation.

Varthamans, a MiG-21 family: Son flies it, dad flew it

Highlighting India's diversity and coexistence while calling on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terrorism, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Friday raised the issue as the main focus at the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Minister meet.

Carrying the "greetings" of 1.3 billion Indians including 185 million Muslim brothers and sisters, EAM said, "Our Muslim brothers and sisters are a microcosm of the diversity of India. They speak Tamil and Telugu, Malayalam and Marathi, Bangla and Bhojpuri or any of the numerous languages of India."

"They practice their respective beliefs and live in harmony with each other and with their non-Muslim brethren. It is this appreciation of diversity and co-existence, that has ensured that very few Muslims in India have fallen prey to the poisonous propaganda of radical and extremist ideologies, " she added.

Without naming Pakistan, EAM Sushma slammed the issue of terror emanating from the country. "If we want to save the humanity then we must tell the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists, to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations, based in their country, " she added.

She further quoted Quran, the founder Guru of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev and Rig Veda and highlighted that every religion in the world stands for peace, compassion and brotherhood. She said, "Terrorism and extremism" bear different names but in each case is driven by "distortion of religion" adding, "fight against terrorism is not a confrontation against any religion"

She also underscored the long historical ties India has with the members of OIC. From ties with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia which are "important pillars" of India's Act East Policy to countries in the neighbourhood--Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Maldives, from Iran with which India has "Civilisational and cultural links" to Iraq with which India has shared "Triumphs and trials" and countries in further to west like Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria with which India "shared desire for a more inclusive world" External Affair Minister Sushma Swaraj talked about the ties will all OIC countries.

She thanked Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh and "others friends" for their strong support for "hearing India’s voice in this forum."

India is the guest of honour at the grouping's meeting, which is a first. The Indian presence is seen as a big diplomatic victory. India has been engaging with several Arab capitals with a number of high-level visits from West Asia to India and vice versa in the last four years.

PAKISTAN BOYCOTTS OIC OVER INDIAN PRESENCE

Meanwhile, Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence.&nbsp;

Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pak Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet. "

"Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it, " he added.

Islamabad has raised strong objections to OIC on India's presence.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Qureshi had written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi.

It is important to highlight, way back in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan.

This time Pakistan's plea was not taken into consideration, which many will say shows Islamabad's growing isolation.

Highlighting India's diversity and coexistence while calling on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terrorism, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Friday raised the issue as the main focus at the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Minister meet.

Highlighting India's diversity and coexistence while calling on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terrorism, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Friday raised the issue as the main focus at the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Minister meet. Carrying the "greetings" of 1.3 billion Indians including 185 million Muslim brothers and sisters, EAM said, "Our Muslim brothers and sisters are a microcosm of the diversity of India. They speak Tamil and Telugu, Malayalam and Marathi, Bangla and Bhojpuri or any of the numerous languages of India." "They practice their respective beliefs and live in harmony with each other and with their non-Muslim brethren. It is this appreciation of diversity and co-existence, that has ensured that very few Muslims in India have fallen prey to the poisonous propaganda of radical and extremist ideologies, " she added. Without naming Pakistan, EAM Sushma slammed the issue of terror emanating from the country. "If we want to save the humanity then we must tell the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists, to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations, based in their country, " she added. She further quoted Quran, the founder Guru of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev and Rig Veda and highlighted that every religion in the world stands for peace, compassion and brotherhood. She said, "Terrorism and extremism" bear different names but in each case is driven by "distortion of religion" adding, "fight against terrorism is not a confrontation against any religion" She also underscored the long historical ties India has with the members of OIC. From ties with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia which are "important pillars" of India's Act East Policy to countries in the neighbourhood--Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Maldives, from Iran with which India has "Civilisational and cultural links" to Iraq with which India has shared "Triumphs and trials" and countries in further to west like Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria with which India "shared desire for a more inclusive world" External Affair Minister Sushma Swaraj talked about the ties will all OIC countries. She thanked Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh and "others friends" for their strong support for "hearing India’s voice in this forum." India is the guest of honour at the grouping's meeting, which is a first. The Indian presence is seen as a big diplomatic victory. India has been engaging with several Arab capitals with a number of high-level visits from West Asia to India and vice versa in the last four years. PAKISTAN BOYCOTTS OIC OVER INDIAN PRESENCE Meanwhile, Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence. Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pak Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet. " "Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it, " he added. Islamabad has raised strong objections to OIC on India's presence. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Qureshi had written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi. It is important to highlight, way back in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan. This time Pakistan's plea was not taken into consideration, which many will say shows Islamabad's growing isolation.

At OIC, Sushma Swaraj highlights India's diversity, slams Pakistan for its support to terror

Pakistan was set to re-open its airspace with restrictions Friday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-awaits-pilots-return-beating-the-retreat-ceremony-cancelled-at-wagah-border-200496">the civil aviation authority said</a>, after thousands of passengers were left stranded worldwide when Islamabad shut down air travel as tensions with neighbouring India soared.

"We will open our airspace at six (pm, 1300 GMT) today" for inbound and outbound flights at Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi and Quetta airports, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesman Aamir Mehboob said.

Other airports would be opened "gradually", he said. The CAA tweeted that passengers should check with their airlines for more details.&nbsp;

The airspace closure disrupted major routes between Europe and South Asia, with mounting frustration from passengers stranded at international airports.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3FLfZqk9zro" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Thai Airways cancelled nearly 30 flights, affecting 5,000 passengers. The decision affected services to London, Munich, Paris, Brussels, Milan, Vienna, Stockholm, Zurich, Copenhagen and Oslo.

Singapore Airlines was also forced to divert Europe-bound flights to Mumbai and Dubai to refuel, while a flight to Frankfurt was cancelled.&nbsp;

Emirates, Qatar Airways, Saudi Airlines, and Air Canada were all also among other carriers forced to cancel and divert flights.&nbsp;

Pakistan's civil aviation authorities said they had allowed some flights to depart on Thursday.

They were an Emirates service from Peshawar to Dubai, an Air Arabia flight from Peshawar to Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE and a Qatar Airways flight from Peshawar to Doha. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan was set to re-open its airspace with restrictions Friday, the civil aviation authority said, after thousands of passengers were left stranded worldwide when Islamabad shut down air travel as tensions with neighbouring India soared.

Pakistan was set to re-open its airspace with restrictions Friday, the civil aviation authority said, after thousands of passengers were left stranded worldwide when Islamabad shut down air travel as tensions with neighbouring India soared. "We will open our airspace at six (pm, 1300 GMT) today" for inbound and outbound flights at Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi and Quetta airports, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesman Aamir Mehboob said. Other airports would be opened "gradually", he said. The CAA tweeted that passengers should check with their airlines for more details. The airspace closure disrupted major routes between Europe and South Asia, with mounting frustration from passengers stranded at international airports. Thai Airways cancelled nearly 30 flights, affecting 5,000 passengers. The decision affected services to London, Munich, Paris, Brussels, Milan, Vienna, Stockholm, Zurich, Copenhagen and Oslo. Singapore Airlines was also forced to divert Europe-bound flights to Mumbai and Dubai to refuel, while a flight to Frankfurt was cancelled. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Saudi Airlines, and Air Canada were all also among other carriers forced to cancel and divert flights. Pakistan's civil aviation authorities said they had allowed some flights to depart on Thursday. They were an Emirates service from Peshawar to Dubai, an Air Arabia flight from Peshawar to Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE and a Qatar Airways flight from Peshawar to Doha.

Pakistan set to partially reopen airspace today

Rescuers were searching Thursday for a missing Italian climber and his British climbing partner in Pakistan after efforts were delayed by the country's closure of its airspace over tensions with India.

Daniele Nardi and Tom Ballard were last heard from on Sunday as they climbed Nanga Parbat in the western Himalayas, a peak known as "Killer Mountain".

"The camp 3 tent has been spotted from a helicopter, buried under snow. Traces of avalanches can be seen," Nardi's team reported on the climber's Facebook page.

"We are waiting for more photographic information and video from the base camp and from Pakistani aviation," it said.

The rescue teams had been forced to wait for permission to send up a helicopter after Pakistan closed its airspace on Wednesday in response to escalating tensions with India.

The searchers have called in Pakistani Muhammad Ali Sadpara, who climbed the peak two years ago, Nardi's team said.

The British Foreign Office said it was "assisting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Pakistan".

Chris Bonington, mountaineer and a family friend of Ballard, told BBC Radio 4 earlier Thursday that the pair were "attempting a very, very difficult route up Nanga Parbat, up the Mummery spur, which is the most direct route up".

"And they were trying to do it in winter, which is by far the toughest time. They'd certainly been having bad weather throughout, a lot of snowfall and it was also bitterly cold.

He said the temperature was believed to be minus 40, which may have drained the batteries on their phones.

"There's still hope that they are alive, and that they are ok, admittedly in very dangerous circumstances," he said.

Bonington said Ballard was "very much an extreme climber, taking after his mum", Alison Hargreaves, who was a famous mountaineer who died on K2.

"It is a very very dangerous game.

"I am very lucky to be alive. I've been climbing for what, 60 years, very nearly and I've had at least 10 times when I was just unbelievably lucky to get away with it. I think extreme climbers at altitude actually are lucky to survive," he said.

Rescuers were searching Thursday for a missing Italian climber and his British climbing partner in Pakistan after efforts were delayed by the country's closure of its airspace over tensions with India.

Rescuers were searching Thursday for a missing Italian climber and his British climbing partner in Pakistan after efforts were delayed by the country's closure of its airspace over tensions with India. Daniele Nardi and Tom Ballard were last heard from on Sunday as they climbed Nanga Parbat in the western Himalayas, a peak known as "Killer Mountain". "The camp 3 tent has been spotted from a helicopter, buried under snow. Traces of avalanches can be seen," Nardi's team reported on the climber's Facebook page. "We are waiting for more photographic information and video from the base camp and from Pakistani aviation," it said. The rescue teams had been forced to wait for permission to send up a helicopter after Pakistan closed its airspace on Wednesday in response to escalating tensions with India. The searchers have called in Pakistani Muhammad Ali Sadpara, who climbed the peak two years ago, Nardi's team said. The British Foreign Office said it was "assisting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Pakistan". Chris Bonington, mountaineer and a family friend of Ballard, told BBC Radio 4 earlier Thursday that the pair were "attempting a very, very difficult route up Nanga Parbat, up the Mummery spur, which is the most direct route up". "And they were trying to do it in winter, which is by far the toughest time. They'd certainly been having bad weather throughout, a lot of snowfall and it was also bitterly cold. He said the temperature was believed to be minus 40, which may have drained the batteries on their phones. "There's still hope that they are alive, and that they are ok, admittedly in very dangerous circumstances," he said. Bonington said Ballard was "very much an extreme climber, taking after his mum", Alison Hargreaves, who was a famous mountaineer who died on K2. "It is a very very dangerous game. "I am very lucky to be alive. I've been climbing for what, 60 years, very nearly and I've had at least 10 times when I was just unbelievably lucky to get away with it. I think extreme climbers at altitude actually are lucky to survive," he said.

Rescuers search Pakistan peak for missing Italian, British climbers

Wing Commander Arun Singh (Retd) slams Pakistan for showing double standards

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