Negotiations between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-meeting-afghanistan-seeks-unsc-intervention-197962">US officials and Taliban</a> members which were supposed to be held in Islamabad on Monday has now been postponed.

In a statement, Taliban said that they were ready for talks on a peace process to end the nearly two-decades-long conflict in Afghanistan, but asserted that most of its members would be not able to attend the meeting as they are blacklisted by the US and the UN, TOLOnews reported.

Officials said that Afghanistan's foreign ministry had lodged a formal complaint with the UN Security Council over the planned meeting between Taliban representatives and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it a clear violation of Afghanistan`s sovereignty.

In its complaint, the Afghan government stated that the Taliban officials invited to Pakistan have a travel ban against them and is a clear violation of international law.

Interestingly, the Taliban did not elaborate on how its representatives were able to travel to the UAE and Russia for similar meetings. The group has a political office in Qatar, where the negotiating team lives.

Earlier this month, Afghanistan lodged a similar complaint with the UN over a recent visit by Taliban members to Moscow. Kabul said that Moscow allowed them to enter the country despite them being blacklisted by the world body.

The Afghan government has criticised the talks from the beginning by saying that the talks hosted by Russia were against the spirit of Afghan-led and owned peace process.

Negotiations between US officials and Taliban members which were supposed to be held in Islamabad on Monday has now been postponed. In a statement, Taliban said that they were ready for talks on a peace process to end the nearly two-decades-long conflict in Afghanistan, but asserted that most of its members would be not able to attend the meeting as they are blacklisted by the US and the UN, TOLOnews reported.

Negotiations between US officials and Taliban members which were supposed to be held in Islamabad on Monday has now been postponed. In a statement, Taliban said that they were ready for talks on a peace process to end the nearly two-decades-long conflict in Afghanistan, but asserted that most of its members would be not able to attend the meeting as they are blacklisted by the US and the UN, TOLOnews reported. Officials said that Afghanistan's foreign ministry had lodged a formal complaint with the UN Security Council over the planned meeting between Taliban representatives and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it a clear violation of Afghanistan`s sovereignty. In its complaint, the Afghan government stated that the Taliban officials invited to Pakistan have a travel ban against them and is a clear violation of international law. Interestingly, the Taliban did not elaborate on how its representatives were able to travel to the UAE and Russia for similar meetings. The group has a political office in Qatar, where the negotiating team lives. Earlier this month, Afghanistan lodged a similar complaint with the UN over a recent visit by Taliban members to Moscow. Kabul said that Moscow allowed them to enter the country despite them being blacklisted by the world body. The Afghan government has criticised the talks from the beginning by saying that the talks hosted by Russia were against the spirit of Afghan-led and owned peace process.

US, Taliban talks in Pakistan postponed

Pakistan has called back its high commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood, 'for consultations'

"We have called back our High Commissioner in India for consultations," Dr Mohammad Faisal, spokesperson of Pakistan's Foreign Office, tweeted.&nbsp;

"He left New Delhi this morning," Faisal added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We have called back our HIgh Commissioner in India for consultations. 
He left New Delhi this morning .
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@ForeignOfficePk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/1097385840513302528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been running high ever since <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">last Thursday's Pulwama attack in which over 40 CRPF men died</a>. A local youth, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar</a>, had rammed a car filled with explosives into a bus carrying the Central Reserve Police Force men.&nbsp;

The attack was claimed by the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed, which is led by Masood Azhar who is based out of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani goods by 200 per cent.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that he has given the armed forces a free hand to respond to the perpetrators of the attack.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-197988">Indian security forces killed two terrorists on Monday in Pulwama</a>, about 10 kilometres from the site of the attack. That encounter is still ongoing but it is thought the two terrorists killed in the attack are Kamran Hilal, the mastermind of the Pulwama attack, and Abdul Rashid Gazi, the maker of the bomb used in the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

Pakistan has called back its high commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood, 'for consultations' "We have called back our High Commissioner in India for consultations," Dr Mohammad Faisal, spokesperson of Pakistan's Foreign Office, tweeted.

Pakistan has called back its high commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood, 'for consultations' "We have called back our High Commissioner in India for consultations," Dr Mohammad Faisal, spokesperson of Pakistan's Foreign Office, tweeted. "He left New Delhi this morning," Faisal added. We have called back our HIgh Commissioner in India for consultations. He left New Delhi this morning . — Dr Mohammad Faisal (@ForeignOfficePk) February 18, 2019 × Tensions between India and Pakistan have been running high ever since last Thursday's Pulwama attack in which over 40 CRPF men died. A local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, had rammed a car filled with explosives into a bus carrying the Central Reserve Police Force men. The attack was claimed by the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed, which is led by Masood Azhar who is based out of Pakistan. Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani goods by 200 per cent. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that he has given the armed forces a free hand to respond to the perpetrators of the attack. Indian security forces killed two terrorists on Monday in Pulwama, about 10 kilometres from the site of the attack. That encounter is still ongoing but it is thought the two terrorists killed in the attack are Kamran Hilal, the mastermind of the Pulwama attack, and Abdul Rashid Gazi, the maker of the bomb used in the Pulwama attack.

Pulwama attack: Pakistan calls back high commissioner to India 'for consultations'

Gunmen have attacked a Pakistani security post in the resource-rich province of Baluchistan killing four paramilitary soldiers, officials said on Monday.

Separatists have for decades fought a low-level insurgency against the government in the southwestern province, which is seeing increasing investment in energy and infrastructure projects by China and others, including Saudi Arabia.

The Sunday attack in Panjgur district came as Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was arriving in Pakistan at the start of a tour of South Asia and China, which risks being overshadowed by escalating tension between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan.

"The four men suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot,” Khan Wasay, a spokesman for the Frontier Corps paramilitary force, told Reuters.

No group claimed responsibility for the attack but it bore the hallmarks of the separatists who have long complained that Baluchistan's gas and mineral resources are unfairly exploited by richer provinces, with little reward for the people of Pakistan's poorest province.

Pakistan has accused old rival India of supporting the Baluchistan separatists. India rejects that.

China has funded development of a deepwater port at Gwadar in south Baluchistan and is also investing in other projects as part of the giant China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Saudi Arabia is expected to announce this week eight investment agreements, including a $10 billion refinery and petrochemicals complex in Gwadar.

Gunmen have attacked a Pakistani security post in the resource-rich province of Baluchistan killing four paramilitary soldiers, officials said on Monday. Separatists have for decades fought a low-level insurgency against the government in the southwestern province, which is seeing increasing investment in energy and infrastructure projects by China and others, including Saudi Arabia.

Gunmen have attacked a Pakistani security post in the resource-rich province of Baluchistan killing four paramilitary soldiers, officials said on Monday. Separatists have for decades fought a low-level insurgency against the government in the southwestern province, which is seeing increasing investment in energy and infrastructure projects by China and others, including Saudi Arabia. The Sunday attack in Panjgur district came as Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was arriving in Pakistan at the start of a tour of South Asia and China, which risks being overshadowed by escalating tension between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan. "The four men suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot,” Khan Wasay, a spokesman for the Frontier Corps paramilitary force, told Reuters. No group claimed responsibility for the attack but it bore the hallmarks of the separatists who have long complained that Baluchistan's gas and mineral resources are unfairly exploited by richer provinces, with little reward for the people of Pakistan's poorest province. Pakistan has accused old rival India of supporting the Baluchistan separatists. India rejects that. China has funded development of a deepwater port at Gwadar in south Baluchistan and is also investing in other projects as part of the giant China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Saudi Arabia is expected to announce this week eight investment agreements, including a $10 billion refinery and petrochemicals complex in Gwadar.

Gunmen kill four soldiers in attack in Pakistan's Baluchistan

The official website of Pakistan`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was reportedly hacked on Saturday.

The foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said complaints were received about the site being inaccessible by users from several countries.

"The IT team is currently occupied in thwarting the hackers` onslaught," he was quoted by Dawn as saying.

Faisal said that the foreign ministry`s website is functioning without any glitches in Pakistan.

However, users from Australia, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom and the Netherlands reported facing difficulty in accessing the site.

The hacking of the website of Pakistan`s foreign ministry comes after a ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama district on Thursday that killed 40 CRPF personnel after a suicide bomber attacked the convoy with a vehicle laden with explosives.

The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a Pakistan-based terrorist group, claimed the responsibility for the attack which left the bus extensively damaged in the blast.

Over 50 countries have condemned the barbaric attack and expressed support to India in its fight against terrorism. Following the deadly assault, India revoked the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status accorded to Pakistan.

Reflecting the outrage in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said, “The blood of Indians is boiling.” He issued a clear warning to Pakistan, declaring that the “guardians” of the perpetrators of the Pulwama terror attack will be “definitely punished.”

The official website of Pakistan`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was reportedly hacked on Saturday. The foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said complaints were received about the site being inaccessible by users from several countries.

The official website of Pakistan`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was reportedly hacked on Saturday. The foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said complaints were received about the site being inaccessible by users from several countries. "The IT team is currently occupied in thwarting the hackers` onslaught," he was quoted by Dawn as saying. Faisal said that the foreign ministry`s website is functioning without any glitches in Pakistan. However, users from Australia, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom and the Netherlands reported facing difficulty in accessing the site. The hacking of the website of Pakistan`s foreign ministry comes after a ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama district on Thursday that killed 40 CRPF personnel after a suicide bomber attacked the convoy with a vehicle laden with explosives. The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a Pakistan-based terrorist group, claimed the responsibility for the attack which left the bus extensively damaged in the blast. Over 50 countries have condemned the barbaric attack and expressed support to India in its fight against terrorism. Following the deadly assault, India revoked the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status accorded to Pakistan. Reflecting the outrage in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said, “The blood of Indians is boiling.” He issued a clear warning to Pakistan, declaring that the “guardians” of the perpetrators of the Pulwama terror attack will be “definitely punished.”

Official website of Pakistan's Foreign Ministry hacked

India raised the issue of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780">Pulwama terror attack</a>, which left <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">40 CRPF men dead</a>, during bilateral meetings with several countries, including the US, Germany and Russia, at the three-day Munich Security Conference that concluded Sunday, officials said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The 55th Munich Security Conference, which brings together global leaders and security experts from across the world, was attended by India's Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The conference was attended by over 600 delegates and it deliberated at length on a host of security-related issues, including international terrorism. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
On the sidelines of the conference, Saran held bilateral meetings with representatives of several countries who unequivocally condemned the attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district and extended their condolences to the bereaved families. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The bilateral meetings, according to the officials, were held with the representatives of the US, Germany, Russia, NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Mongolia, Armenia and Oman. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
There was widespread support for India's concerns over Pakistan sponsored terrorism on Indian soil, they said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Forty CRPF personnel were killed in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday when a Jaish suicide bomber blew a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives near their bus.

India raised the issue of the Pulwama terror attack, which left 40 CRPF men dead, during bilateral meetings with several countries, including the US, Germany and Russia, at the three-day Munich Security Conference that concluded Sunday, officials said.

India raised the issue of the Pulwama terror attack, which left 40 CRPF men dead, during bilateral meetings with several countries, including the US, Germany and Russia, at the three-day Munich Security Conference that concluded Sunday, officials said. The 55th Munich Security Conference, which brings together global leaders and security experts from across the world, was attended by India's Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran. The conference was attended by over 600 delegates and it deliberated at length on a host of security-related issues, including international terrorism. On the sidelines of the conference, Saran held bilateral meetings with representatives of several countries who unequivocally condemned the attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district and extended their condolences to the bereaved families. The bilateral meetings, according to the officials, were held with the representatives of the US, Germany, Russia, NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Mongolia, Armenia and Oman. There was widespread support for India's concerns over Pakistan sponsored terrorism on Indian soil, they said. Forty CRPF personnel were killed in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday when a Jaish suicide bomber blew a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives near their bus.

Mission to isolate Pakistan: India raises Pulwama terror attack issue at Munich conference

Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in a corruption case, has been shifted to a hospital in Lahore from the Kot Lakhpat jail here for cardiac treatment.

Sharif, 69, was brought to the Jinnah Hospital from the jail in high security.&nbsp;

The Punjab home department has declared the private ward of Jinnah Hospital a "sub-jail" for the duration of Sharif's stay there.

The ousted premier was shifted back to jail on February 7 after having a six-day treatment at Services Hospital where a multi-disciplinary medical board examined him and unanimously opined that he needs some kind of cardiac intervention.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the PML-N supremo's personal physician Adnan Khan had requested the Punjab government to provide round-the-clock expert cardiac care to Sharif at a facility where cardiology intervention and multidisciplinary backup would be available.

Entertaining the request, the Punjab Home Department accorded sanction for "shifting of high-profile National Accountability Bureau convicted prisoner Sharif from central jail to Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, for medical treatment for minimum required period.

The PML-N has been demanding to shift of Sharif to London for his treatment. The PML-N has also submitted a resolution in the Punjab Assembly demanding that Sharif should be shifted to London as he always had undergone cardiac treatment there and the doctors knew his medical history.

The medical board here, however, declared that Sharif's treatment is possible in any specialised cardiac health facility in Pakistan.

After examining all results of his tests, the medical board has reached a unanimous decision that Sharif needs some kind of cardiac intervention.&nbsp; 
For the purpose, he should be shifted to a cardiac institute, the head of the medical board at the Services Hospital, Professor Dr Mahmood Ayaz, had said.

He said Sharif had heart issues because of his previous history of some diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney problem.

Dr Ayaz further said: &nbsp;According to the findings of the board, Sharif is facing some problems in blood supply of heart veins that must be addressed by cardiac specialists. We had engaged some cardiac specialists from the Punjab Institute of Cardiology who examined the patient and his test reports and suggested little change in Sharif's medicines.

Sharif has been behind the bars since December 24, 2018, after an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed under the direction of the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

On Thursday Sharif's younger brother PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif got bail from high court in two corruption cases.&nbsp;

Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in a corruption case, has been shifted to a hospital in Lahore from the Kot Lakhpat jail here for cardiac treatment.

Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in a corruption case, has been shifted to a hospital in Lahore from the Kot Lakhpat jail here for cardiac treatment. Sharif, 69, was brought to the Jinnah Hospital from the jail in high security. The Punjab home department has declared the private ward of Jinnah Hospital a "sub-jail" for the duration of Sharif's stay there. The ousted premier was shifted back to jail on February 7 after having a six-day treatment at Services Hospital where a multi-disciplinary medical board examined him and unanimously opined that he needs some kind of cardiac intervention. Subsequently, the PML-N supremo's personal physician Adnan Khan had requested the Punjab government to provide round-the-clock expert cardiac care to Sharif at a facility where cardiology intervention and multidisciplinary backup would be available. Entertaining the request, the Punjab Home Department accorded sanction for "shifting of high-profile National Accountability Bureau convicted prisoner Sharif from central jail to Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, for medical treatment for minimum required period. The PML-N has been demanding to shift of Sharif to London for his treatment. The PML-N has also submitted a resolution in the Punjab Assembly demanding that Sharif should be shifted to London as he always had undergone cardiac treatment there and the doctors knew his medical history. The medical board here, however, declared that Sharif's treatment is possible in any specialised cardiac health facility in Pakistan. After examining all results of his tests, the medical board has reached a unanimous decision that Sharif needs some kind of cardiac intervention. For the purpose, he should be shifted to a cardiac institute, the head of the medical board at the Services Hospital, Professor Dr Mahmood Ayaz, had said. He said Sharif had heart issues because of his previous history of some diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney problem. Dr Ayaz further said: According to the findings of the board, Sharif is facing some problems in blood supply of heart veins that must be addressed by cardiac specialists. We had engaged some cardiac specialists from the Punjab Institute of Cardiology who examined the patient and his test reports and suggested little change in Sharif's medicines. Sharif has been behind the bars since December 24, 2018, after an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed under the direction of the Supreme Court. On Thursday Sharif's younger brother PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif got bail from high court in two corruption cases.

Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif shifted to hospital in Lahore from jail

Pakistan on Friday said the visit of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-ready-to-woo-saudi-crown-prince-197632">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a> to the country was delayed by a day.

The crown prince was scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Saturday on a two-day visit.

However, the arrival has been rescheduled and now he would arrive on Sunday, the Foreign Office said without divulging the reason for the change.

It further said the crown prince "will visit Pakistan on February 17-18, 2019" and the "visit programme remains unchanged".

Abdul Razzak Dawood, Advisor to prime minister on trade, said investment deals worth USD 10-15 billion dollars would be signed during the trip. On the top of the list is an agreement to set up an oil refinery in Pakistan.

Elaborate security arrangements have been planned during the visit of the powerful heir to the Saudi throne.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Friday said the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the country was delayed by a day. The crown prince was scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Saturday on a two-day visit.

Pakistan on Friday said the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the country was delayed by a day. The crown prince was scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Saturday on a two-day visit. However, the arrival has been rescheduled and now he would arrive on Sunday, the Foreign Office said without divulging the reason for the change. It further said the crown prince "will visit Pakistan on February 17-18, 2019" and the "visit programme remains unchanged". Abdul Razzak Dawood, Advisor to prime minister on trade, said investment deals worth USD 10-15 billion dollars would be signed during the trip. On the top of the list is an agreement to set up an oil refinery in Pakistan. Elaborate security arrangements have been planned during the visit of the powerful heir to the Saudi throne.

Pakistan says Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Islamabad delayed by a day

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-crown-prince-salmans-pakistan-visit-delayed-by-a-day-197704">Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a> is likely to meet Afghan Taliban representatives during his visit to Pakistan starting on Sunday, Pakistani government sources said, part of efforts to broker an end to Afghanistan's 17-year-old civil war.

Pakistan has been playing an increasingly vital role in the Afghanistan peace talks, which have been gathering momentum in recent months amid a growing US desire to pull out its troops.

Along with other Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia has been part of the peace negotiations and is seen to have some sway over the Afghan Taliban militants due to Riyadh's historical ties with the hardline Islamist group and the kingdom's religious clout as the birthplace of Islam.

Two senior Pakistani officials said the crown prince was likely to meet Afghan Taliban representatives in Islamabad, where the militants, fighting to restore strict Islamic rule in Afghanistan after their 2001 ouster, say they are due to meet US representatives and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

"Though it is top secret so far, there are strong indications representatives of the Afghan Taliban will meet Prince Salman during their visit of Pakistan on February 18," one of the Pakistani officials in Islamabad said.

A senior Taliban leader in Qatar said no decision had been made on whether they would meet the crown prince.

"Actually meeting Prince Salman is not in the plan so far but we can discuss it when we are in Islamabad," said the Taliban representative.

Pakistan's Foreign Office and Saudi Arabia's government did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The crown prince is expected to stay to leave Pakistan on Monday after signing a raft of investment agreements in the energy sector for more than $10 billion.

But his trip, which Islamabad is treating as the biggest state visit in years, risks being overshadowed by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a militant attack on Indian security forces in the disputed Kashmir region.

New Delhi says Pakistan had a hand in the attack by a militant group which is based on Pakistani soil, something Islamabad denies.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is likely to meet Afghan Taliban representatives during his visit to Pakistan starting on Sunday, Pakistani government sources said, part of efforts to broker an end to Afghanistan's 17-year-old civil war.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is likely to meet Afghan Taliban representatives during his visit to Pakistan starting on Sunday, Pakistani government sources said, part of efforts to broker an end to Afghanistan's 17-year-old civil war. Pakistan has been playing an increasingly vital role in the Afghanistan peace talks, which have been gathering momentum in recent months amid a growing US desire to pull out its troops. Along with other Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia has been part of the peace negotiations and is seen to have some sway over the Afghan Taliban militants due to Riyadh's historical ties with the hardline Islamist group and the kingdom's religious clout as the birthplace of Islam. Two senior Pakistani officials said the crown prince was likely to meet Afghan Taliban representatives in Islamabad, where the militants, fighting to restore strict Islamic rule in Afghanistan after their 2001 ouster, say they are due to meet US representatives and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. "Though it is top secret so far, there are strong indications representatives of the Afghan Taliban will meet Prince Salman during their visit of Pakistan on February 18," one of the Pakistani officials in Islamabad said. A senior Taliban leader in Qatar said no decision had been made on whether they would meet the crown prince. "Actually meeting Prince Salman is not in the plan so far but we can discuss it when we are in Islamabad," said the Taliban representative. Pakistan's Foreign Office and Saudi Arabia's government did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. The crown prince is expected to stay to leave Pakistan on Monday after signing a raft of investment agreements in the energy sector for more than $10 billion. But his trip, which Islamabad is treating as the biggest state visit in years, risks being overshadowed by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a militant attack on Indian security forces in the disputed Kashmir region. New Delhi says Pakistan had a hand in the attack by a militant group which is based on Pakistani soil, something Islamabad denies.

Afghan Taliban likely to meet Saudi crown prince in Pakistan: Report

US vows to back India in war against terror

Pakistan is committed to implementing the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case, a senior Pakistani official said as the country's delegation left for the Hague on Friday for the oral proceedings in the case that will commence at the world court from February 18.

Indian national Jadhav, 48, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017. India moved the ICJ in May the same year against the verdict.

A 10-member bench of the ICJ on May 18, 2017, had restrained Pakistan from executing Jadhav till adjudication of the case.

Pakistan's Attorney General Anwar Mansoor would lead the Pakistani delegation at the ICJ while Director General South Asia Mohammad Faisal would lead the Foreign Office side, a senior official told Dawn.

The ICJ has set a timetable for the public hearing in the case from February 18 to 21 in The Hague and Harish Salve, who represents India in the case, is expected to argue first on February 18.

The English Queen's Counsel Khawar Qureshi will make submissions on February 19 from Islamabad's side. Then India will reply on February 20 while Islamabad will make its closing submissions on February 21, the daily said.

It is expected that the ICJ's decision may be delivered by the summer of 2019.

"We are fully prepared with our strongest evidence being the valid Indian passport recovered from Commander Jadhav with a Muslim name, the official told the Dawn, adding that Pakistan was committed to implementing the decision, irrespective of what decision came from the ICJ.

In reply to a question about Iran, the official said the Pakistan government was convinced that Iran had no role in Jadhav's episode though he remained there for some time. "India wants to drag Iran into this dispute but we will not let it happen," he said.

In New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday declined to go into the details of the case.

"The oral proceedings on the International Court of Justice are commencing on February 18. India will present its case before the court. Since the matter is subjudice it is not appropriate for me to state our position in public. Whatever we have to do, we will do at the court," he said in response to a question.

Pakistan claims that its security forces arrested Jadhav from restive Balochistan province on March 3, 2016 after he reportedly entered from Iran. However, India maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Navy. Jadhav's sentencing had evoked a sharp reaction in India.

India had approached the ICJ for "egregious" violation of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, by Pakistan in Jadhav's case.&nbsp;

Pakistan is committed to implementing the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case, a senior Pakistani official said as the country's delegation left for the Hague on Friday for the oral proceedings in the case that will commence at the world court from February 18.

Pakistan is committed to implementing the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case, a senior Pakistani official said as the country's delegation left for the Hague on Friday for the oral proceedings in the case that will commence at the world court from February 18. Indian national Jadhav, 48, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017. India moved the ICJ in May the same year against the verdict. A 10-member bench of the ICJ on May 18, 2017, had restrained Pakistan from executing Jadhav till adjudication of the case. Pakistan's Attorney General Anwar Mansoor would lead the Pakistani delegation at the ICJ while Director General South Asia Mohammad Faisal would lead the Foreign Office side, a senior official told Dawn. The ICJ has set a timetable for the public hearing in the case from February 18 to 21 in The Hague and Harish Salve, who represents India in the case, is expected to argue first on February 18. The English Queen's Counsel Khawar Qureshi will make submissions on February 19 from Islamabad's side. Then India will reply on February 20 while Islamabad will make its closing submissions on February 21, the daily said. It is expected that the ICJ's decision may be delivered by the summer of 2019. "We are fully prepared with our strongest evidence being the valid Indian passport recovered from Commander Jadhav with a Muslim name, the official told the Dawn, adding that Pakistan was committed to implementing the decision, irrespective of what decision came from the ICJ. In reply to a question about Iran, the official said the Pakistan government was convinced that Iran had no role in Jadhav's episode though he remained there for some time. "India wants to drag Iran into this dispute but we will not let it happen," he said. In New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday declined to go into the details of the case. "The oral proceedings on the International Court of Justice are commencing on February 18. India will present its case before the court. Since the matter is subjudice it is not appropriate for me to state our position in public. Whatever we have to do, we will do at the court," he said in response to a question. Pakistan claims that its security forces arrested Jadhav from restive Balochistan province on March 3, 2016 after he reportedly entered from Iran. However, India maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Navy. Jadhav's sentencing had evoked a sharp reaction in India. India had approached the ICJ for "egregious" violation of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, by Pakistan in Jadhav's case.

Pakistan committed to implementing ICJ's decision in Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Official

Pakistan was rescheduling flights, blocking-off luxury hotels, and -- according to one report Friday -- collecting 3,500 pigeons and colourful balloons to release during a welcome ceremony for Saudi Arabian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-expects-eight-investment-deals-during-saudi-princes-visit-197230">Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a>.

Islamabad is hoping to sign a raft of investment deals and other agreements during the two-day visit, which begins Saturday and will include talks with Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan and the powerful army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa.&nbsp;

Banners heralding the crown prince were already lining the streets of the capital Friday, while the Express Tribune newspaper reported that authorities were trying to catch so many pigeons for a welcome ceremony that they were forced to collect birds from other cities.

Police, the armed forces, and the Saudi Royal Guards will provide security, a senior Islamabad police official told AFP.&nbsp;

The capital's "red zone", which houses Parliament House and the Presidency, was to be sealed off, while civil aviation authorities have been told to reschedule flights during the prince's arrival and departure.&nbsp;

Authorities in the capital said two five-star hotels had been ordered to cancel all advance bookings as the rooms will be reserved for the prince's entourage.

Earlier in the week local media reported that the crown prince's personal belongings -- including luxury vehicles and his own gym -- were flown to Pakistan in two C130 airplanes.&nbsp;

The visit came as regional tensions spiked after neighbouring India accused Islamabad of harbouring militants behind a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.

At least 41 paramilitary troops were killed in a suicide blast Thursday, with Indian media reporting that the Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility.

The crown prince, who is due to visit India after Pakistan, also continues to be tarnished by his alleged links to the brutal murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing to sign a record investment package with Pakistan, including a $10-billion refinery and oil complex for the strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

Pakistan's foreign office spokesman said Islamabad is seeking to sign a number of other deals, including one "combating organised crime". &nbsp;

Khan has been courting its Gulf allies for months as he seeks to stave off an ongoing balance of payments crisis and reduce the size of any potential bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have together offered Islamabad some $30 billion in investment and loans.

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are also participating in talks with the US and other countries seeking to bring the Taliban to the table for peace negotiations with Kabul after more than 17 years of war.

The Taliban have claimed their representatives will visit Islamabad on Monday, after Salman leaves.

Pakistan was rescheduling flights, blocking-off luxury hotels, and -- according to one report Friday -- collecting 3,500 pigeons and colourful balloons to release during a welcome ceremony for Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Pakistan was rescheduling flights, blocking-off luxury hotels, and -- according to one report Friday -- collecting 3,500 pigeons and colourful balloons to release during a welcome ceremony for Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Islamabad is hoping to sign a raft of investment deals and other agreements during the two-day visit, which begins Saturday and will include talks with Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan and the powerful army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa. Banners heralding the crown prince were already lining the streets of the capital Friday, while the Express Tribune newspaper reported that authorities were trying to catch so many pigeons for a welcome ceremony that they were forced to collect birds from other cities. Police, the armed forces, and the Saudi Royal Guards will provide security, a senior Islamabad police official told AFP. The capital's "red zone", which houses Parliament House and the Presidency, was to be sealed off, while civil aviation authorities have been told to reschedule flights during the prince's arrival and departure. Authorities in the capital said two five-star hotels had been ordered to cancel all advance bookings as the rooms will be reserved for the prince's entourage. Earlier in the week local media reported that the crown prince's personal belongings -- including luxury vehicles and his own gym -- were flown to Pakistan in two C130 airplanes. The visit came as regional tensions spiked after neighbouring India accused Islamabad of harbouring militants behind a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. At least 41 paramilitary troops were killed in a suicide blast Thursday, with Indian media reporting that the Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility. The crown prince, who is due to visit India after Pakistan, also continues to be tarnished by his alleged links to the brutal murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing to sign a record investment package with Pakistan, including a $10-billion refinery and oil complex for the strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. Pakistan's foreign office spokesman said Islamabad is seeking to sign a number of other deals, including one "combating organised crime". Khan has been courting its Gulf allies for months as he seeks to stave off an ongoing balance of payments crisis and reduce the size of any potential bailout from the International Monetary Fund. The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have together offered Islamabad some $30 billion in investment and loans. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are also participating in talks with the US and other countries seeking to bring the Taliban to the table for peace negotiations with Kabul after more than 17 years of war. The Taliban have claimed their representatives will visit Islamabad on Monday, after Salman leaves.

Pakistan gets ready to woo Saudi Crown Prince, hopes to sign raft of investment deals

JeM chief Masood Azhar: His plan, origin and motive to target India

The killing of over 40 men in uniform in Pulwama has shocked the nation out of a stupor. This is, first of all, a time of mourning and saluting the martyrs.&nbsp;

The bereaved families must be left in no doubt that the whole nation shares their loss. Condolences aren’t enough- relief must follow swiftly. There can be no compensation for lives lost or limbs severed. Still, families of those who have shed their blood to protect the nation should not feel orphaned. This is the first priority.

But we can’t remain petrified in a state of shock for long. Words like dastardly, cowardly and barbaric have been used ad nauseam to condemn such terrorist attacks. They have lost all meaning. Our resolve to ‘give a fitting reply' to a treacherous neighbour at an opportune time’ has begun to sound a cliche.&nbsp;

At this moment of national grief and unprecedented anger let’s not quibble about lapses and options. What we need to agree on is to treat Pakistan like a pariah. Our diplomacy, of course, will exert to isolate the rogue and the failed state.&nbsp;

For Pakistan, this poses no problem. As long as it’s patrons - the USA and People’s Republic of China continue to protect Pakistan, it will gleefully continue its proxy war via terrorist attacks mounted from its soil.&nbsp;

No one should live in the fatal fool’s paradise that there has been a change of heart with a change of guard in Islamabad. Imran Khan remains a helpless puppet manipulated by those who pull all the strings behind the curtain. Unfortunately for India, this is no innocent performance but truly a dance macabre.&nbsp;

The armed forces in Pakistan and the ISI continue on a reckless path because they have been reassured time and again by the US and China that as long as they stand with it, India dare not retaliate.

Ever since Pakistan acquired what it likes to call the 'Islamic Nuclear Bomb' it has harboured megalomaniac dreams of parity with India founded on a balance of terror.

The Pakistan generals have fed their people a totally different narrative on 1965, 1971 and Kargil. As far as they are concerned the strategy of a ‘War of Thousand Cuts’ has served them well. Disaffection in the state of J&amp;K has grown thanks to Pakistan sponsoring agitators demanding ‘Azadi’ that goes far beyond autonomy and creates the dangerous mirage of Independence after cessation.&nbsp;

Let us rid ourselves of the illusion that Pakistan is a normal nation-state committed to respecting other’s sovereignty. It has no respect for rule of law. Either domestic or international. What late Kuldip Nayyar called distant neighbours have become deadly enemies next door. India is left with no choice but to reciprocate the sentiment of belligerence.&nbsp; 
 
It is not out of place to remind ourselves that the Father of the Nation, an Apostle of Peace and Non-Violence, had nothing against taking up arms against an aggressor. We are conscious that this is the 150th anniversary of the Mahatma’s birth but Pakistan is an immoral bully that can’t be tamed by ahimsa and satyagraha. We have already suffered heavy losses trying to continue a meaningless dialogue or to normalise relations through unilateral confidence-building&nbsp;measures. Enough is Enough.&nbsp;

Time to defang the venomous reptile. This doesn’t mean a hasty surgical strike. Pakistan and its allies, patrons and protectors&nbsp;should be made to pay an economic and political price. No doubt this will hurt us too. &nbsp;But can we live with shame swallowing our pride? What is the guarantee that India will be allowed to develop and prosper once we succumb to sinister designs of a treacherous neighbour encouraged by unreliable strategic and significant economic partners.

Pulwama should be seen as the decisive moment when we review and rework our external relations especially with neighbours big and small, the USA, China and Islamic countries. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

The killing of over 40 men in uniform in Pulwama has shocked the nation out of a stupor. This is, first of all, a time of mourning and saluting the martyrs. The bereaved families must be left in no doubt that the whole nation shares their loss.

The killing of over 40 men in uniform in Pulwama has shocked the nation out of a stupor. This is, first of all, a time of mourning and saluting the martyrs. The bereaved families must be left in no doubt that the whole nation shares their loss. Condolences aren’t enough- relief must follow swiftly. There can be no compensation for lives lost or limbs severed. Still, families of those who have shed their blood to protect the nation should not feel orphaned. This is the first priority. But we can’t remain petrified in a state of shock for long. Words like dastardly, cowardly and barbaric have been used ad nauseam to condemn such terrorist attacks. They have lost all meaning. Our resolve to ‘give a fitting reply' to a treacherous neighbour at an opportune time’ has begun to sound a cliche. At this moment of national grief and unprecedented anger let’s not quibble about lapses and options. What we need to agree on is to treat Pakistan like a pariah. Our diplomacy, of course, will exert to isolate the rogue and the failed state. For Pakistan, this poses no problem. As long as it’s patrons - the USA and People’s Republic of China continue to protect Pakistan, it will gleefully continue its proxy war via terrorist attacks mounted from its soil. No one should live in the fatal fool’s paradise that there has been a change of heart with a change of guard in Islamabad. Imran Khan remains a helpless puppet manipulated by those who pull all the strings behind the curtain. Unfortunately for India, this is no innocent performance but truly a dance macabre. The armed forces in Pakistan and the ISI continue on a reckless path because they have been reassured time and again by the US and China that as long as they stand with it, India dare not retaliate. Ever since Pakistan acquired what it likes to call the 'Islamic Nuclear Bomb' it has harboured megalomaniac dreams of parity with India founded on a balance of terror. The Pakistan generals have fed their people a totally different narrative on 1965, 1971 and Kargil. As far as they are concerned the strategy of a ‘War of Thousand Cuts’ has served them well. Disaffection in the state of J&K has grown thanks to Pakistan sponsoring agitators demanding ‘Azadi’ that goes far beyond autonomy and creates the dangerous mirage of Independence after cessation. Let us rid ourselves of the illusion that Pakistan is a normal nation-state committed to respecting other’s sovereignty. It has no respect for rule of law. Either domestic or international. What late Kuldip Nayyar called distant neighbours have become deadly enemies next door. India is left with no choice but to reciprocate the sentiment of belligerence. It is not out of place to remind ourselves that the Father of the Nation, an Apostle of Peace and Non-Violence, had nothing against taking up arms against an aggressor. We are conscious that this is the 150th anniversary of the Mahatma’s birth but Pakistan is an immoral bully that can’t be tamed by ahimsa and satyagraha. We have already suffered heavy losses trying to continue a meaningless dialogue or to normalise relations through unilateral confidence-building measures. Enough is Enough. Time to defang the venomous reptile. This doesn’t mean a hasty surgical strike. Pakistan and its allies, patrons and protectors should be made to pay an economic and political price. No doubt this will hurt us too. But can we live with shame swallowing our pride? What is the guarantee that India will be allowed to develop and prosper once we succumb to sinister designs of a treacherous neighbour encouraged by unreliable strategic and significant economic partners. Pulwama should be seen as the decisive moment when we review and rework our external relations especially with neighbours big and small, the USA, China and Islamic countries. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pulwama terror attack: Enough is enough, we need to treat Pakistan like a pariah

India has sent a strong message to Pakistan and China after the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men.&nbsp;

Hitting out at Pakistan for its support to terrorism, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) in a statement said, "We demand that Pakistan stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the infrastructure operated by terrorist outfits to launch attacks in other countries"

Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the attack.

New Delhi said, "this terror group is led by the international terrorist Masood Azhar, who has been given full freedom by Government of Pakistan to operate and expand his terror infrastructure in territories under the control of Pakistan and to carry out attacks in India and elsewhere with impunity. "

The 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad was boycotted by India, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Maldives after the 2016 Uri attacks.

Without taking China's name India called on the member of the International community to list Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar under the 1267 sanctions committee of United Nation security council (UNSC).

MEA said, "We strongly reiterate our appeal to all members of the international community to support the proposal to list terrorists, including JeM Chief Masood Azhar, as a designated terrorist under the 1267 Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council and to ban terrorist organisations operating from territories controlled by Pakistan. "

China repeatedly blocked listing of Masood Azhar as an internationally designated terrorist under the UNSC 1267 Committee. India in February 2016 had approached the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee with the proposal to designate Masood Azhar under the 1267 sanction regime. &nbsp;While the US, UK and France backed India's bid, China continued to block it.

While condemning the attack, the release said, "Government of India is firmly and resolutely committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard national security."

India has sent a strong message to Pakistan and China after the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men. Hitting out at Pakistan for its support to terrorism, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) in a statement said, "We demand that Pakistan stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the infrastructure operated by terrorist outfits to launch attacks in other countries" Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the attack.

India has sent a strong message to Pakistan and China after the Pulwama attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men. Hitting out at Pakistan for its support to terrorism, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) in a statement said, "We demand that Pakistan stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the infrastructure operated by terrorist outfits to launch attacks in other countries" Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the attack. New Delhi said, "this terror group is led by the international terrorist Masood Azhar, who has been given full freedom by Government of Pakistan to operate and expand his terror infrastructure in territories under the control of Pakistan and to carry out attacks in India and elsewhere with impunity. " The 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad was boycotted by India, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Maldives after the 2016 Uri attacks. Without taking China's name India called on the member of the International community to list Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar under the 1267 sanctions committee of United Nation security council (UNSC). MEA said, "We strongly reiterate our appeal to all members of the international community to support the proposal to list terrorists, including JeM Chief Masood Azhar, as a designated terrorist under the 1267 Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council and to ban terrorist organisations operating from territories controlled by Pakistan. " China repeatedly blocked listing of Masood Azhar as an internationally designated terrorist under the UNSC 1267 Committee. India in February 2016 had approached the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee with the proposal to designate Masood Azhar under the 1267 sanction regime. While the US, UK and France backed India's bid, China continued to block it. While condemning the attack, the release said, "Government of India is firmly and resolutely committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard national security."

Pulwama attack: India hits out at Pakistan, sends a message to China

&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-calls-up-kashmiri-separatist-leader-geelani-194700">Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi </a>Wednesday claimed that India has failed to diplomatically isolate Islamabad, according to a media report.

Briefing Parliament, the minister claimed India on multiple occasions tried to harm Pakistan's diplomatic ties with other countries.

Ties between<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/great-game-ii-india-pakistan-china-gas-pipeline-powered-by-russia-cannot-be-discounted-196820"> India and Pakistan </a>nosedived following a spate of terror attacks on Indian military bases by Pakistan-based terror groups since January 2016.

Following the strikes, India announced it will not engage in talks with Pakistan, saying terror and talks cannot go hand-in-hand.

India in September cancelled the proposed meeting between External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi in New York citing the brutal killing of security personnel by Pakistan-based entities.&nbsp;

"India's failure to isolate Islamabad diplomatically is a win for the country," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

He reiterated to strengthen Pakistan's position in the diplomat and global arena and continue to address any challenges that may arise.

Qureshi also maintained that countries willing to invest in Pakistan and benefit from mutual cooperation shall not be agreeable to India.

"It is to India's discontent that nations are willing to establish mutual trade ties with Pakistan," he said.&nbsp;

Qureshi's assertion of diplomatic successes of Pakistan came days ahead of the planned visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Saturday to expand economic and defence cooperation.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Wednesday claimed that India has failed to diplomatically isolate Islamabad, according to a media report. Briefing Parliament, the minister claimed India on multiple occasions tried to harm Pakistan's diplomatic ties with other countries.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Wednesday claimed that India has failed to diplomatically isolate Islamabad, according to a media report. Briefing Parliament, the minister claimed India on multiple occasions tried to harm Pakistan's diplomatic ties with other countries. Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived following a spate of terror attacks on Indian military bases by Pakistan-based terror groups since January 2016. Following the strikes, India announced it will not engage in talks with Pakistan, saying terror and talks cannot go hand-in-hand. India in September cancelled the proposed meeting between External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi in New York citing the brutal killing of security personnel by Pakistan-based entities. "India's failure to isolate Islamabad diplomatically is a win for the country," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. He reiterated to strengthen Pakistan's position in the diplomat and global arena and continue to address any challenges that may arise. Qureshi also maintained that countries willing to invest in Pakistan and benefit from mutual cooperation shall not be agreeable to India. "It is to India's discontent that nations are willing to establish mutual trade ties with Pakistan," he said. Qureshi's assertion of diplomatic successes of Pakistan came days ahead of the planned visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Saturday to expand economic and defence cooperation.

India's failure to isolate us diplomatically is a victory for Pak: Foreign minister Qureshi

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pak-saudi-arabia-sri-lanka-in-european-commission-blacklist-for-terror-financing-money-laundering-197258">travel to Pakistan</a> mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country.

The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan.

"Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism," the State Department said in the latest travel advisory.

It asked Americans not to travel to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-dissatisfied-over-pakistans-efforts-to-combat-terror-financing-report-172508"> Balochistan province and Khyber</a> Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, including the former Federally, Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir area due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan, it said, adding that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship and government facilities.

Noting that terrorist attacks continue to happen across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA, the State Department said large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in hundreds of casualties over the last several years.

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Attari, India, the advisory said.

Urging its citizens not to travel to PoK, the State Department said militant groups are known to operate in the area.

"The threat of armed conflict between India and Pakistan remains. Indian and Pakistani military forces periodically exchange fire across the Line of Control," it added.&nbsp;

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their travel to Pakistan mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country. The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan.

The US has urged its citizens to reconsider their travel to Pakistan mainly due to terrorism and risks to civil aviation operating within or near the country. The Federal Aviation Administration, in a notice issued on Wednesday, said that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan. "Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism," the State Department said in the latest travel advisory. It asked Americans not to travel to Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, including the former Federally, Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir area due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Pakistan, it said, adding that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship and government facilities. Noting that terrorist attacks continue to happen across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA, the State Department said large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in hundreds of casualties over the last several years. India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Attari, India, the advisory said. Urging its citizens not to travel to PoK, the State Department said militant groups are known to operate in the area. "The threat of armed conflict between India and Pakistan remains. Indian and Pakistani military forces periodically exchange fire across the Line of Control," it added.

US urges citizens to 'reconsider' travelling to Pakistan due to terrorism

This week’s suicide attack on Revolutionary Guards in Iran’s south-eastern province of Sistan and Baluchistan, the second in two months, could not have come at a more awkward moment for Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The assault on a bus carrying the guards back from patrols on the province’s border with the troubled Pakistani region of Baluchistan killed 27 people and wounded 13 others. It occurred days before Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was scheduled to visit Pakistan as part of a tour of Asian countries.

While Baluchistan is set to figure prominently in Prince Mohammed’s talks with Khan, the attack also coincided with a US-sponsored conference in Warsaw, widely seen as an effort by the Trump administration to further isolate Iran economically and diplomatically.

Inside the conference, dubbed The Ministerial to Promote a Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo insisted that US policy was designed to force Iran to alter its regional and defence policies and not geared towards regime change in Tehran.

Yet, US President Donald J Trump appeared to be sending mixed messages to the Iranians as well as sceptical European governments with his personal lawyer, Rudolph Giuliani, addressing a rally outside the conference organised by the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, a controversial Iranian exile group believed to enjoy Saudi backing.

Giuliani told the protesters who waved Iranian flags and giant yellow balloons emblazoned with the words, “Regime Change” that “We want to see a regime change in Iran.”

Trump appeared to fuel suspicion that Giuliani represented his true sentiment by tweeting on the eve of the Warsaw conference in a reference to the 40th anniversary of the Islamic revolution: “40 years of corruption. 40 years of repression. 40 years of terror. The regime in Iran has produced only #40YearsofFailure. The long-suffering Iranian people deserve a much brighter future.”

In a statement, the Revolutionary Guards blamed the attack on "mercenaries of intelligence agencies of world arrogance and domination," a reference to Saudi Arabia, the United States and Israel.

Jaish-al-Adl (the Army of Justice), a Pakistan-based splinter group that traces its roots to Saudi-backed anti-Shiite groups with a history of attacks on Iranian and Shiite targets, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The group says it is not seeking Baluch secession from Iran. Instead, it wants to "Force the regime of the guardianship of jurisconsult (Iran) to respect the demands of the Muslim Baloch and Sunni society alongside the other compatriots of our country."

Militants targeted a Revolutionary Guards headquarters in December in a rare suicide bombing in Chabahar, home to Iran’s Indian-backed port on the Arabian Sea, a mere 70 kilometres from the Chinese supported the port of Gwadar, a crown jewel in the Pakistani leg of the People’s Republic’s Belt and Road initiative.

The attacks coupled with indications that Saudi Arabia and the United States may be contemplating covert action against Iran using Pakistani Balochistan as a launching pad, and heightened Saudi economic and commercial interest in the province, frame Prince Mohammed’s upcoming talks in Islamabad.

During his visit, Prince Mohammed is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on a framework for $10 billion in Saudi investments. &nbsp;

The memorandum includes a plan by Saudi national oil company Aramco to build a refinery in Gwadar as well as Saudi investment in Baluchistan’s Reko Diq copper and gold mine.

The investments would further enhance Saudi influence in Pakistan as well as the kingdom’s foothold in Balochistan.

They would come on the back of significant Saudi aid to help Pakistan evade a financial crisis that included a $3 billion deposit in Pakistan’s central bank to support the country’s balance of payments and another $3 billion in deferred payments for oil imports.

Taken together, the refinery, a strategic oil reserve in Gwadar and the mine would also help Saudi Arabia in potential efforts to prevent Chabahar from emerging as a powerful Arabian Sea hub.

Saudi funds have been flowing for some time into the coffers of ultra-conservative anti-Shiite, anti-Iranian Sunni Muslim Madrassahs or religious seminars in Balochistan. It remains unclear whether they originate with the Saudi government or Saudi nationals of Baloch descent and members of the two million-strong Pakistani Diaspora in the kingdom.&nbsp;

The funds help put in place potential building blocks for possible covert action should the kingdom and/or the United States decide to act on proposals to support irredentist activity.

The flow started at about the time that the Riyadh-based International Institute for Iranian Studies, formerly known as the Arabian Gulf Centre for Iranian Studies, an allegedly Saudi government-backed think tank, published &nbsp;a study that argued that Chabahar posed “a direct threat to the Arab Gulf states” that called for “immediate countermeasures.”

If executed, covert action could jeopardise Indian hopes to use Chabahar to bypass Pakistan, significantly enhance its trade with Afghanistan and Central Asian nations and create an antidote to Gwadar.

Pakistani analysts expect an estimated $5 billion in Afghan trade to flow through Chabahar after India in December started handling the port’s operations.

Iranian concerns that the attacks represent the US and/or Saudi covert effort are grounded not only in more recent US and Saudi policies, including Trump’s withdrawal last year from the 2015 international agreement to curb Iran's nuclear program despite confirmation of its adherence to the accord and re-imposition of harsh economic sanctions against the Islamic republic.

They are also rooted in US and Saudi backing of Iraq in the 1980s Gulf war, US overtures in the last year to Iranian Kurdish insurgents, the long-standing broad spectrum of support of former and serving US officials for the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq and in recent years of Prince Turki al-Faisal, a former head of Saudi intelligence and ex-ambassador to the United States and Britain.

Said Ali Vaez, the International Crisis Group’s Iran analyst: “The concern was never that the Trump admin would avert its eyes from Iran, but rather that is in inflicted by an unhealthy obsession with it. In hyping the threat emanating from Iran, Trump is more likely than not to mishandle it and thus further destabilise the Middle East.”

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

This week’s suicide attack on Revolutionary Guards in Iran’s south-eastern province of Sistan and Baluchistan, the second in two months, could not have come at a more awkward moment for Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

This week’s suicide attack on Revolutionary Guards in Iran’s south-eastern province of Sistan and Baluchistan, the second in two months, could not have come at a more awkward moment for Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. The assault on a bus carrying the guards back from patrols on the province’s border with the troubled Pakistani region of Baluchistan killed 27 people and wounded 13 others. It occurred days before Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was scheduled to visit Pakistan as part of a tour of Asian countries. While Baluchistan is set to figure prominently in Prince Mohammed’s talks with Khan, the attack also coincided with a US-sponsored conference in Warsaw, widely seen as an effort by the Trump administration to further isolate Iran economically and diplomatically. Inside the conference, dubbed The Ministerial to Promote a Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo insisted that US policy was designed to force Iran to alter its regional and defence policies and not geared towards regime change in Tehran. Yet, US President Donald J Trump appeared to be sending mixed messages to the Iranians as well as sceptical European governments with his personal lawyer, Rudolph Giuliani, addressing a rally outside the conference organised by the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, a controversial Iranian exile group believed to enjoy Saudi backing. Giuliani told the protesters who waved Iranian flags and giant yellow balloons emblazoned with the words, “Regime Change” that “We want to see a regime change in Iran.” Trump appeared to fuel suspicion that Giuliani represented his true sentiment by tweeting on the eve of the Warsaw conference in a reference to the 40th anniversary of the Islamic revolution: “40 years of corruption. 40 years of repression. 40 years of terror. The regime in Iran has produced only #40YearsofFailure. The long-suffering Iranian people deserve a much brighter future.” In a statement, the Revolutionary Guards blamed the attack on "mercenaries of intelligence agencies of world arrogance and domination," a reference to Saudi Arabia, the United States and Israel. Jaish-al-Adl (the Army of Justice), a Pakistan-based splinter group that traces its roots to Saudi-backed anti-Shiite groups with a history of attacks on Iranian and Shiite targets, has claimed responsibility for the attack. The group says it is not seeking Baluch secession from Iran. Instead, it wants to "Force the regime of the guardianship of jurisconsult (Iran) to respect the demands of the Muslim Baloch and Sunni society alongside the other compatriots of our country." Militants targeted a Revolutionary Guards headquarters in December in a rare suicide bombing in Chabahar, home to Iran’s Indian-backed port on the Arabian Sea, a mere 70 kilometres from the Chinese supported the port of Gwadar, a crown jewel in the Pakistani leg of the People’s Republic’s Belt and Road initiative. The attacks coupled with indications that Saudi Arabia and the United States may be contemplating covert action against Iran using Pakistani Balochistan as a launching pad, and heightened Saudi economic and commercial interest in the province, frame Prince Mohammed’s upcoming talks in Islamabad. During his visit, Prince Mohammed is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on a framework for $10 billion in Saudi investments. The memorandum includes a plan by Saudi national oil company Aramco to build a refinery in Gwadar as well as Saudi investment in Baluchistan’s Reko Diq copper and gold mine. The investments would further enhance Saudi influence in Pakistan as well as the kingdom’s foothold in Balochistan. They would come on the back of significant Saudi aid to help Pakistan evade a financial crisis that included a $3 billion deposit in Pakistan’s central bank to support the country’s balance of payments and another $3 billion in deferred payments for oil imports. Taken together, the refinery, a strategic oil reserve in Gwadar and the mine would also help Saudi Arabia in potential efforts to prevent Chabahar from emerging as a powerful Arabian Sea hub. Saudi funds have been flowing for some time into the coffers of ultra-conservative anti-Shiite, anti-Iranian Sunni Muslim Madrassahs or religious seminars in Balochistan. It remains unclear whether they originate with the Saudi government or Saudi nationals of Baloch descent and members of the two million-strong Pakistani Diaspora in the kingdom. The funds help put in place potential building blocks for possible covert action should the kingdom and/or the United States decide to act on proposals to support irredentist activity. The flow started at about the time that the Riyadh-based International Institute for Iranian Studies, formerly known as the Arabian Gulf Centre for Iranian Studies, an allegedly Saudi government-backed think tank, published a study that argued that Chabahar posed “a direct threat to the Arab Gulf states” that called for “immediate countermeasures.” If executed, covert action could jeopardise Indian hopes to use Chabahar to bypass Pakistan, significantly enhance its trade with Afghanistan and Central Asian nations and create an antidote to Gwadar. Pakistani analysts expect an estimated $5 billion in Afghan trade to flow through Chabahar after India in December started handling the port’s operations. Iranian concerns that the attacks represent the US and/or Saudi covert effort are grounded not only in more recent US and Saudi policies, including Trump’s withdrawal last year from the 2015 international agreement to curb Iran's nuclear program despite confirmation of its adherence to the accord and re-imposition of harsh economic sanctions against the Islamic republic. They are also rooted in US and Saudi backing of Iraq in the 1980s Gulf war, US overtures in the last year to Iranian Kurdish insurgents, the long-standing broad spectrum of support of former and serving US officials for the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq and in recent years of Prince Turki al-Faisal, a former head of Saudi intelligence and ex-ambassador to the United States and Britain. Said Ali Vaez, the International Crisis Group’s Iran analyst: “The concern was never that the Trump admin would avert its eyes from Iran, but rather that is in inflicted by an unhealthy obsession with it. In hyping the threat emanating from Iran, Trump is more likely than not to mishandle it and thus further destabilise the Middle East.” (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The significance of Saudi Crown Prince's visit to Pakistan

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-crown-prince-expected-to-seal-multi-billion-dollar-deals-in-pakistan-196969">Pakistan is preparing to welcome Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman </a>for a state visit over the weekend, the foreign ministry confirmed Wednesday, as Islamabad hopes to sign various investment deals to prop up its slumping economy.

The two-day visit will kick off on February 16 and include a raft of high-level talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan along with Pakistan's military chief.

"During his stay, Pakistan and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/saudi-crown-prince-mohammad-bin-salman-to-visit-india-on-february-19-20-196873">Saudi Arabia </a>will be signing a number of agreements... related to diverse sectors," Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement.

"The two countries will also discuss ways and means to develop a robust follow-up mechanism to ensure effective implementation and quick progress on tangible areas of cooperation."

Two five-star hotels have been fully booked by the Saudi delegation while the Kingdom's elite royal guards arrived in Pakistan earlier this week to assist with security arrangements, according to a municipal official in Islamabad. &nbsp;

Riyadh and Islamabad, decades-old allies, have been involved for months in talks to iron out details of the deals in time for the crown prince's visit.

Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing to sign a record investment package with Pakistan aiming to provide welcome relief for its cash-strapped Muslim ally.&nbsp;

At the heart of the investment is a reported $10-billion refinery and oil complex in the strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea, the ultimate destination for the massive multi-billion dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor.

The visit comes just weeks after Pakistan rolled out the red carpet for Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, shortly after the emirate pledged to provide $3 billion to support Pakistan's battered economy.

The Wall Street Journal reported last month that both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Islamabad's biggest trading partner in the Middle East, have offered Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan some $30 billion in investment and loans.

Pakistan has been courting its Gulf allies for months as Khan's new government desperately seeks to stave off an ongoing balance of payments crisis and reduce the size of any potential bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

Pakistan is preparing to welcome Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a state visit over the weekend, the foreign ministry confirmed Wednesday, as Islamabad hopes to sign various investment deals to prop up its slumping economy.

Pakistan is preparing to welcome Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a state visit over the weekend, the foreign ministry confirmed Wednesday, as Islamabad hopes to sign various investment deals to prop up its slumping economy. The two-day visit will kick off on February 16 and include a raft of high-level talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan along with Pakistan's military chief. "During his stay, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will be signing a number of agreements... related to diverse sectors," Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement. "The two countries will also discuss ways and means to develop a robust follow-up mechanism to ensure effective implementation and quick progress on tangible areas of cooperation." Two five-star hotels have been fully booked by the Saudi delegation while the Kingdom's elite royal guards arrived in Pakistan earlier this week to assist with security arrangements, according to a municipal official in Islamabad. Riyadh and Islamabad, decades-old allies, have been involved for months in talks to iron out details of the deals in time for the crown prince's visit. Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing to sign a record investment package with Pakistan aiming to provide welcome relief for its cash-strapped Muslim ally. At the heart of the investment is a reported $10-billion refinery and oil complex in the strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea, the ultimate destination for the massive multi-billion dollar China Pakistan Economic Corridor. The visit comes just weeks after Pakistan rolled out the red carpet for Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, shortly after the emirate pledged to provide $3 billion to support Pakistan's battered economy. The Wall Street Journal reported last month that both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Islamabad's biggest trading partner in the Middle East, have offered Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan some $30 billion in investment and loans. Pakistan has been courting its Gulf allies for months as Khan's new government desperately seeks to stave off an ongoing balance of payments crisis and reduce the size of any potential bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit cash-strapped Pakistan on February 16

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain appealed to the Indian citizens to help <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mohajirs-welcome-indias-statement-against-pak-in-un-human-rights-session-nadeem-nusrat-35323">Mohajirs in Pakistan</a>.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-minorities-in-pakistan-speak-out-corner-pak-army-at-home--136850">WION Gravitas: Minorities in Pakistan speak out; Corner Pak army at home</a>

The Mohajirs are Urdu-speaking people who had migrated to Pakistan after the Partition in 1947.

In his message to Hindus, Sikhs and Christians of India, Hussain said that Mohajirs were Indian citizens.

"Pakistan was not founded by Mohajirs of Pakistan but they were their forefathers who did it. Mohajirs are facing genocide in Pakistan since 1947 and their children are a victim of sheer bias and discretion at the hands of the military establishment," he asserted.

He said that Pakistan is being sold to China and Pakistani military would stand the ultimate beneficiary instead.

The MQM founding leader also called upon the Indian parliamentarians to step forward for the help of Mohajirs in the name of humanity.

"India and Mohajirs are of same origins and hence the Indian parliamentarians should recognise them as their own family," said Hussain.

He expressed hope that the Indian parliamentarians would ultimately raise their voice for the Mohajirs.

"The Indian parliamentarians should also raise their voice at the UN for the oppressed communities in Pakistan like Pashtuns, Balochs and religious minorities like Shiite, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hindu-temple-vandalised-in-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-orders-decisive-action-195710">Hindu</a>, Ahmadi, Parsi and others," he added.

Hussain asserted that Mohajirs had been duped in the garb of Islam, adding they chose to migrate to Pakistan while leaving their homes and graves of their forefathers, their culture and traditions behind in India.

He accused the Pakistani military of treating the Mohajirs like "animals", saying that the military "crossed all limits of cruelty."

Dubbing the Partition as a "vast blunder", the MQM chief asserted that the break-up divided the Mohajirs of both India and Pakistan.

Hussain urged the Mohajirs in Pakistan and across the globe that they should approach their relatives in India and inform them of the "devastating situation" they are passing through in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain appealed to the Indian citizens to help Mohajirs in Pakistan. WION Gravitas: Minorities in Pakistan speak out; Corner Pak army at home The Mohajirs are Urdu-speaking people who had migrated to Pakistan after the Partition in 1947.

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain appealed to the Indian citizens to help Mohajirs in Pakistan. WION Gravitas: Minorities in Pakistan speak out; Corner Pak army at home The Mohajirs are Urdu-speaking people who had migrated to Pakistan after the Partition in 1947. In his message to Hindus, Sikhs and Christians of India, Hussain said that Mohajirs were Indian citizens. "Pakistan was not founded by Mohajirs of Pakistan but they were their forefathers who did it. Mohajirs are facing genocide in Pakistan since 1947 and their children are a victim of sheer bias and discretion at the hands of the military establishment," he asserted. He said that Pakistan is being sold to China and Pakistani military would stand the ultimate beneficiary instead. The MQM founding leader also called upon the Indian parliamentarians to step forward for the help of Mohajirs in the name of humanity. "India and Mohajirs are of same origins and hence the Indian parliamentarians should recognise them as their own family," said Hussain. He expressed hope that the Indian parliamentarians would ultimately raise their voice for the Mohajirs. "The Indian parliamentarians should also raise their voice at the UN for the oppressed communities in Pakistan like Pashtuns, Balochs and religious minorities like Shiite, Hindu, Ahmadi, Parsi and others," he added. Hussain asserted that Mohajirs had been duped in the garb of Islam, adding they chose to migrate to Pakistan while leaving their homes and graves of their forefathers, their culture and traditions behind in India. He accused the Pakistani military of treating the Mohajirs like "animals", saying that the military "crossed all limits of cruelty." Dubbing the Partition as a "vast blunder", the MQM chief asserted that the break-up divided the Mohajirs of both India and Pakistan. Hussain urged the Mohajirs in Pakistan and across the globe that they should approach their relatives in India and inform them of the "devastating situation" they are passing through in Pakistan.

MQM chief Altaf Hussain urges India to help Mohajirs in Pakistan

Pakistani authorities Wednesday vowed to carry out a "massive" crackdown targeting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-using-social-media-to-radicalise-kashmiri-youths-jk-police-chief-193786">hate speech and extremism on social media,</a> as a minister boasted arrests have already been made.&nbsp;

Officials in Pakistan are frequently accused of muzzling the media and targeting individuals critical of the country’s powerful military establishment and have blocked hundreds of websites and social media accounts over the years.

Information minister Fawad Chaudhry announced the government was setting up a new enforcement arm to regulate social media during a speech in the capital Islamabad.

"We made some arrests last week and by the will of Allah we are launching a massive crackdown against social media users spreading hate speech and violence," he said.

Self-censorship in the South Asia nation is widely believed to be rife at traditional news outlets.

"Our problem is that digital media is overtaking formal media so it is important for us to regulate this," Chaudhry added, saying: "Informal media is a greater problem than formal media.”

The announcement comes days after authorities arrested a journalist for allegedly posting defamatory content on social media.&nbsp;

And on Tuesday an opinion piece in the International New York Times criticising Pakistan's powerful army was censored by its local publisher and replaced by a blank space.

Activists and bloggers frequently report receiving warnings from Facebook and Twitter for posting unlawful content.

Local media also complained about pressure in the run-up to a general election in July to self-censor in favour of the eventual victor, cricketer-turned-prime-minister Imran Khan.

The Committee to Protect Journalists said the army had "quietly but effectively, set restrictions on reporting" in a report released September last year.

Pakistani authorities Wednesday vowed to carry out a "massive" crackdown targeting hate speech and extremism on social media, as a minister boasted arrests have already been made.

Pakistani authorities Wednesday vowed to carry out a "massive" crackdown targeting hate speech and extremism on social media, as a minister boasted arrests have already been made. Officials in Pakistan are frequently accused of muzzling the media and targeting individuals critical of the country’s powerful military establishment and have blocked hundreds of websites and social media accounts over the years. Information minister Fawad Chaudhry announced the government was setting up a new enforcement arm to regulate social media during a speech in the capital Islamabad. "We made some arrests last week and by the will of Allah we are launching a massive crackdown against social media users spreading hate speech and violence," he said. Self-censorship in the South Asia nation is widely believed to be rife at traditional news outlets. "Our problem is that digital media is overtaking formal media so it is important for us to regulate this," Chaudhry added, saying: "Informal media is a greater problem than formal media.” The announcement comes days after authorities arrested a journalist for allegedly posting defamatory content on social media. And on Tuesday an opinion piece in the International New York Times criticising Pakistan's powerful army was censored by its local publisher and replaced by a blank space. Activists and bloggers frequently report receiving warnings from Facebook and Twitter for posting unlawful content. Local media also complained about pressure in the run-up to a general election in July to self-censor in favour of the eventual victor, cricketer-turned-prime-minister Imran Khan. The Committee to Protect Journalists said the army had "quietly but effectively, set restrictions on reporting" in a report released September last year.

Pakistan announces 'massive' social media crackdown

Pakistan has taken the right direction in strengthening its defence and acquired nuclear prowess to avoid being coerced, a top Pakistan Army official said on Monday.&nbsp;

Addressing a seminar, "Understanding Strategic Coercion in the Realm of Hybrid Gray Conflict: Implications for Pakistan", Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat said, "Beginning as early as the partition, coercive statecraft and hostility from our neighbour is not new."

"However, with the accession of hyper-Pakistan had taken the right direction and strengthened its defence. We continue to build our Minimum Credible Deterrence. Nuclear power of 2020 million cannot be coerced," he said.

He said with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the evolving dynamics of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Pakistan was set to play an important role. "We succeeded in the past, we'll succeed in the future," he added.

In the prevailing international environment, the subject of the seminar, organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies Ismalabad, was of great relevance and interests to Pakistan because "it was enduring a subtle and, at times, not so subtle strategic coercion," he said.

"In fact, it was not just Pakistan but the entire region was subjected to the strategic coercion and even the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) had become a hostage to this phenomenon," said Gen Hayat.

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Baloch nationalist and the arrest of Indian national Kalbhushan Yadav, are all manifestation of this evolving challenge," he said.

The General said that the strategic coercion was undermining the regional strategic calculus and negatively affecting the internal politics as well, and to ward off the spectre of strategic coercion in the realm of hybrid warfare, new methods and modalities were required.

"We have taken the direction and come a long way in establishing and strengthening our defence. We fought off the scourge of terrorism, not only physically, but emotionally and psychologically as well," he said.

Apart from Gen Hayat, Leonid Savin from geopolitical analyst, Russia; Ikram Sehgal, defence and security analyst; and Lt&nbsp;Gen&nbsp;(Retd) Naeem Khalid Lodhi, former defence secretary.

Savin say that the concept of gray hybrid conflict&nbsp;was a western construct and the rest of the world should come up with its own narrative.

"Before 2014, hybrid warfare was discussed mostly in military affairs but, after the Ukraine crisis, it has expanded to the political domain as well," he said.

Sehgal described hybrid warfare as a mix of all the linear and non-linear, kinetic and non-kinetic warfare whose all components were inter-connected, applied simultaneously and adopted likewise in time and space.

"Propaganda, social implosion and cyber warfare are some of its expressions," he said.

Lt Gen Lodhi said that hybrid warfare was an acme of strategy to win a battle without fighting. He said that it was unleashed to impact worldviews, politics, culture, social bonds and economy.

Pakistan has taken the right direction in strengthening its defence and acquired nuclear prowess to avoid being coerced, a top Pakistan Army official said on Monday.

Pakistan has taken the right direction in strengthening its defence and acquired nuclear prowess to avoid being coerced, a top Pakistan Army official said on Monday. Addressing a seminar, "Understanding Strategic Coercion in the Realm of Hybrid Gray Conflict: Implications for Pakistan", Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat said, "Beginning as early as the partition, coercive statecraft and hostility from our neighbour is not new." "However, with the accession of hyper-Pakistan had taken the right direction and strengthened its defence. We continue to build our Minimum Credible Deterrence. Nuclear power of 2020 million cannot be coerced," he said. He said with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the evolving dynamics of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Pakistan was set to play an important role. "We succeeded in the past, we'll succeed in the future," he added. In the prevailing international environment, the subject of the seminar, organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies Ismalabad, was of great relevance and interests to Pakistan because "it was enduring a subtle and, at times, not so subtle strategic coercion," he said. "In fact, it was not just Pakistan but the entire region was subjected to the strategic coercion and even the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) had become a hostage to this phenomenon," said Gen Hayat. Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Baloch nationalist and the arrest of Indian national Kalbhushan Yadav, are all manifestation of this evolving challenge," he said. The General said that the strategic coercion was undermining the regional strategic calculus and negatively affecting the internal politics as well, and to ward off the spectre of strategic coercion in the realm of hybrid warfare, new methods and modalities were required. "We have taken the direction and come a long way in establishing and strengthening our defence. We fought off the scourge of terrorism, not only physically, but emotionally and psychologically as well," he said. Apart from Gen Hayat, Leonid Savin from geopolitical analyst, Russia; Ikram Sehgal, defence and security analyst; and Lt Gen (Retd) Naeem Khalid Lodhi, former defence secretary. Savin say that the concept of gray hybrid conflict was a western construct and the rest of the world should come up with its own narrative. "Before 2014, hybrid warfare was discussed mostly in military affairs but, after the Ukraine crisis, it has expanded to the political domain as well," he said. Sehgal described hybrid warfare as a mix of all the linear and non-linear, kinetic and non-kinetic warfare whose all components were inter-connected, applied simultaneously and adopted likewise in time and space. "Propaganda, social implosion and cyber warfare are some of its expressions," he said. Lt Gen Lodhi said that hybrid warfare was an acme of strategy to win a battle without fighting. He said that it was unleashed to impact worldviews, politics, culture, social bonds and economy.

Pakistan took right direction in acquiring nuclear prowess: Army official

January Ceasefire Violations: India raises the matter with Pakistan

International skiers take to slopes in Pakistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Christine Lagarde in Dubai on Sunday for talks on issues which have held up bailout negotiations, a Pakistani minister said on Saturday.

Pakistan is seeking its 13th bailout since the late 1980s to deal with a current account deficit that threatens to trigger a balance of payments crisis, but talks have been delayed by difficulties in reconciling IMF reform demands with Islamabad`s fears the push is too drastic and could hurt economic growth.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told Reuters Khan will meet IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde on the sidelines of the World Government Summit in Dubai.

"This will give us a chance to understand the IMF views and we will be able to give our version to (Lagarde)," said Chaudhry, who will accompany Khan to Dubai along with Finance Minister Asad Umar.

Chaudhry said Pakistan wants any agreed bailout package, which would be the country's second IMF bailout since 2013, to be the nation`s last such economic rescue by the IMF.&nbsp;

Officials had expected talks to conclude in November but they have been delayed as Islamabad harbours concerns that the programme could derail the economy and Khan`s plans for his term in office.

Pakistan has in the meantime sought financial assistance from Middle Eastern allies such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who have loaned it in excess of $10 billion to ease the pressure on its dwindling foreign currency reserves.

"The problem is not the (IMF) deal, the problem is the condition attached to the deal," Chaudhry said.&nbsp;

"We don’t want conditions that hurt Pakistan’s growth prospects. We want a fair deal that can actually help Pakistan in the short term, without affecting our long-term economic goals."

The IMF talks come amid a worsening macroeconomic outlook, with growth expectations slashed for the current fiscal year to about 4 per cent from 6 per cent previously forecast.

On Saturday, Pakistan also revised its growth figures for the last financial year to 5.2 per cent from a previously reported 5.8 per cent, after a sharp cut in the figure for large-scale manufacturing, the statistics office said.

When the original estimate was reported in April by the government of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi it was hailed as the strongest growth in 13 years.

Before the revisions to last year`s GDP figures, Pakistan`s deficit to GDP ratio, estimated at 5.8 per cent in 2017-18, was expected to hit 6.9 per cent this year, according to IMF data.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Christine Lagarde in Dubai on Sunday for talks on issues which have held up bailout negotiations, a Pakistani minister said on Saturday.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Christine Lagarde in Dubai on Sunday for talks on issues which have held up bailout negotiations, a Pakistani minister said on Saturday. Pakistan is seeking its 13th bailout since the late 1980s to deal with a current account deficit that threatens to trigger a balance of payments crisis, but talks have been delayed by difficulties in reconciling IMF reform demands with Islamabad`s fears the push is too drastic and could hurt economic growth. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told Reuters Khan will meet IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde on the sidelines of the World Government Summit in Dubai. "This will give us a chance to understand the IMF views and we will be able to give our version to (Lagarde)," said Chaudhry, who will accompany Khan to Dubai along with Finance Minister Asad Umar. Chaudhry said Pakistan wants any agreed bailout package, which would be the country's second IMF bailout since 2013, to be the nation`s last such economic rescue by the IMF. Officials had expected talks to conclude in November but they have been delayed as Islamabad harbours concerns that the programme could derail the economy and Khan`s plans for his term in office. Pakistan has in the meantime sought financial assistance from Middle Eastern allies such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who have loaned it in excess of $10 billion to ease the pressure on its dwindling foreign currency reserves. "The problem is not the (IMF) deal, the problem is the condition attached to the deal," Chaudhry said. "We don’t want conditions that hurt Pakistan’s growth prospects. We want a fair deal that can actually help Pakistan in the short term, without affecting our long-term economic goals." The IMF talks come amid a worsening macroeconomic outlook, with growth expectations slashed for the current fiscal year to about 4 per cent from 6 per cent previously forecast. On Saturday, Pakistan also revised its growth figures for the last financial year to 5.2 per cent from a previously reported 5.8 per cent, after a sharp cut in the figure for large-scale manufacturing, the statistics office said. When the original estimate was reported in April by the government of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi it was hailed as the strongest growth in 13 years. Before the revisions to last year`s GDP figures, Pakistan`s deficit to GDP ratio, estimated at 5.8 per cent in 2017-18, was expected to hit 6.9 per cent this year, according to IMF data.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to meet IMF chief Lagarde for talks on bailout

A Pakistani journalist under scrutiny for anti-government social media posts was beaten and seized outside his home on Saturday, his son said, in the latest sign of pressure on media.

Rizwan Razi, who worked for private Din TV in the city of Lahore, was being investigated for "defamatory and obnoxious" comments about the judiciary, government and intelligence services, according to Pakistan`s law enforcement agency.&nbsp;

However, there was no official confirmation he had been arrested.

"My father went out of home to see off friends," his son Osama told Reuters of the incident on Saturday morning.

"When the friends left, unknown persons, riding a black Honda Civic car, thrashed and dragged him in the car and fled away ... I ran after the car but could not do anything."

Pakistani journalists say they face an increasingly hostile climate since the vote last year that saw Prime Minister Imran Khan`s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) take power.

A report from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), dated Saturday and seen by Reuters, said Razi had previously been questioned about his Twitter comments. It said authorization had been granted to register a case against him.

His account @RaziDada appeared to be offline on Saturday.

FIA officials in Lahore referred questions to the main office in Islamabad, where officials could not be reached.

Khan`s government replaced the party of ousted former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who was at odds with the powerful military and is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence for corruption.

The increased official pressure has come at a difficult time for the media in general as advertising revenues have plunged and newsroom budgets been slashed.

Government officials say Pakistan has an independent media and the military denies pressuring journalists.&nbsp;

In a separate case, Ammar Ali Jan, an academic also based in Lahore, was arrested over his involvement in a protest at the death of Arman Loni, a regional leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement. He was later released on bail.

A message on Ammar`s Facebook page on Saturday said he was taken at 4 am "I am a law-abiding citizen and will not be deterred in the fight for justice," it said.

Police official Azhar Naveed confirmed the brief detention and bail, which followed other arrests over the protests earlier this week. He said Ammar was charged with taking part in a rally, blocking a road and making "anti-state" speeches.&nbsp;

A Pakistani journalist under scrutiny for anti-government social media posts was beaten and seized outside his home on Saturday, his son said, in the latest sign of pressure on media.

A Pakistani journalist under scrutiny for anti-government social media posts was beaten and seized outside his home on Saturday, his son said, in the latest sign of pressure on media. Rizwan Razi, who worked for private Din TV in the city of Lahore, was being investigated for "defamatory and obnoxious" comments about the judiciary, government and intelligence services, according to Pakistan`s law enforcement agency. However, there was no official confirmation he had been arrested. "My father went out of home to see off friends," his son Osama told Reuters of the incident on Saturday morning. "When the friends left, unknown persons, riding a black Honda Civic car, thrashed and dragged him in the car and fled away ... I ran after the car but could not do anything." Pakistani journalists say they face an increasingly hostile climate since the vote last year that saw Prime Minister Imran Khan`s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) take power. A report from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), dated Saturday and seen by Reuters, said Razi had previously been questioned about his Twitter comments. It said authorization had been granted to register a case against him. His account @RaziDada appeared to be offline on Saturday. FIA officials in Lahore referred questions to the main office in Islamabad, where officials could not be reached. Khan`s government replaced the party of ousted former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who was at odds with the powerful military and is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence for corruption. The increased official pressure has come at a difficult time for the media in general as advertising revenues have plunged and newsroom budgets been slashed. Government officials say Pakistan has an independent media and the military denies pressuring journalists. In a separate case, Ammar Ali Jan, an academic also based in Lahore, was arrested over his involvement in a protest at the death of Arman Loni, a regional leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement. He was later released on bail. A message on Ammar`s Facebook page on Saturday said he was taken at 4 am "I am a law-abiding citizen and will not be deterred in the fight for justice," it said. Police official Azhar Naveed confirmed the brief detention and bail, which followed other arrests over the protests earlier this week. He said Ammar was charged with taking part in a rally, blocking a road and making "anti-state" speeches.

Pakistani journalist critical of government seized outside home

Pakistan has revised its economic growth figures for the last financial year to 5.2 per cent from a previously reported figure of 5.8 per cent, after a sharp cut in the figure for large-scale manufacturing, the statistics office said.

The revision of figures reported by the previous government underlines the economic headwinds facing Pakistan which is holding discussions over a possible bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

When the original estimate was reported in April by the government of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, it was hailed as the strongest growth in 13 years.

The office, in a statement issued after a meeting of the national accounts committee late on Friday, said gross domestic product in the 2017/18 financial year to June rose 5.22 per cent compared with a previously reported 5.79 per cent.

Growth in the industrial sector was revised to 5.01 per cent from a previously reported 5.8 per cent in the provisional estimate. The biggest change came in the large-scale manufacturing segment, which saw growth revised to 5.01 per cent from 6.13 per cent previously.

In the agriculture sector, growth was revised to 3.7 per cent, from a previous 3.81 per cent, while in services, growth was revised to 5.78 per cent from 6.43 per cent previously. 
Growth in the current year is expected to slow further to 4 per cent this year, according to an IMF forecast from November.

Before the revisions to last year`s GDP figures, Pakistan`s deficit to GDP ratio, estimated at 5.8 per cent in 2017-18, was expected to hit 6.9 per cent this year, according to IMF data.

Pakistan has revised its economic growth figures for the last financial year to 5.2 per cent from a previously reported figure of 5.8 per cent, after a sharp cut in the figure for large-scale manufacturing, the statistics office said.

Pakistan has revised its economic growth figures for the last financial year to 5.2 per cent from a previously reported figure of 5.8 per cent, after a sharp cut in the figure for large-scale manufacturing, the statistics office said. The revision of figures reported by the previous government underlines the economic headwinds facing Pakistan which is holding discussions over a possible bailout from the International Monetary Fund. When the original estimate was reported in April by the government of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, it was hailed as the strongest growth in 13 years. The office, in a statement issued after a meeting of the national accounts committee late on Friday, said gross domestic product in the 2017/18 financial year to June rose 5.22 per cent compared with a previously reported 5.79 per cent. Growth in the industrial sector was revised to 5.01 per cent from a previously reported 5.8 per cent in the provisional estimate. The biggest change came in the large-scale manufacturing segment, which saw growth revised to 5.01 per cent from 6.13 per cent previously. In the agriculture sector, growth was revised to 3.7 per cent, from a previous 3.81 per cent, while in services, growth was revised to 5.78 per cent from 6.43 per cent previously. Growth in the current year is expected to slow further to 4 per cent this year, according to an IMF forecast from November. Before the revisions to last year`s GDP figures, Pakistan`s deficit to GDP ratio, estimated at 5.8 per cent in 2017-18, was expected to hit 6.9 per cent this year, according to IMF data.

Pakistan cuts 2017/18 economic growth estimate to 5.2 per cent

WION Fineprint, 8th February, 2019

India protests against Hafiz Saeed's rally, sends 'note verbale' to Pakistan

India protests against Hafiz Saeed roaming freely, sends 'note verbale' to Pakistan

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday voiced serious concern over the violence perpetrated against peaceful protestors and civil activists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan and warned that it could have “long-standing negative consequences".

Pakistan government has been resorting to violence to crush protests in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Recently, a local Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Arman Loni died after Pakistani forces opened fire when he and his supporters were peacefully protesting against the growing forced evictions in the region."

"The Afghan government has serious concerns about the violence perpetrated against peaceful protestors and civil activists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan," Ghani tweeted.

“We believe it is the moral responsibility of every government to support civil activities that take a stand against the terrorism and extremism that plagues and threatens our region and collective security. Otherwise, there could be long-standing negative consequences,” Ghani tweeted.

Pakistan has been carrying out oppressive activities against ethnic Pashtuns, who have been regularly protesting and seeking justice for the atrocities committed by security forces in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Federally Administered Tribal Areas.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi criticised the Afghan President for his statement.

"We reject the tweet by President Ashraf Ghani. Such irresponsible statements are only gross interference. Afghan leadership needs to focus on long-standing serious grievances of the Afghan people,” Qureshi tweeted.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday voiced serious concern over the violence perpetrated against peaceful protestors and civil activists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan and warned that it could have “long-standing negative consequences".

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday voiced serious concern over the violence perpetrated against peaceful protestors and civil activists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan and warned that it could have “long-standing negative consequences". Pakistan government has been resorting to violence to crush protests in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Recently, a local Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Arman Loni died after Pakistani forces opened fire when he and his supporters were peacefully protesting against the growing forced evictions in the region." "The Afghan government has serious concerns about the violence perpetrated against peaceful protestors and civil activists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan," Ghani tweeted. “We believe it is the moral responsibility of every government to support civil activities that take a stand against the terrorism and extremism that plagues and threatens our region and collective security. Otherwise, there could be long-standing negative consequences,” Ghani tweeted. Pakistan has been carrying out oppressive activities against ethnic Pashtuns, who have been regularly protesting and seeking justice for the atrocities committed by security forces in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Federally Administered Tribal Areas. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi criticised the Afghan President for his statement. "We reject the tweet by President Ashraf Ghani. Such irresponsible statements are only gross interference. Afghan leadership needs to focus on long-standing serious grievances of the Afghan people,” Qureshi tweeted.

Afghan President expresses concern over violence by Pakistani forces against Pashtuns, Balochistan

One of Pakistan's leading women's rights activists has been released from police custody, she told AFP Thursday, after Amnesty International said she and others had been detained "arbitrarily".

Gulalai Ismail was arrested along with 17 other members of the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), a peaceful organisation defending the rights of ethnic Pashtuns, during a protest in Islamabad on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"It was very painful for my family, who tool 30 hours to know where I was," she told AFP, adding that she had been freed late Wednesday.

She was separated from the other activists, she said, and was not placed under official arrest.

"They didn't charge me with anything. They didn't let me contact my lawyer. They just kept moving me around," she said.&nbsp;

"You cannot arrest citizens and just disappear them."

An Islamabad police official dealing with the case swept the claims aside.

Police follow "a proper procedure and her claims of an encounter are unthinkable," he told AFP, referring to extra-judicial murders, or "encounter killings" as they are commonly known in Pakistan.&nbsp;

He accused Ismail and the other activists of uttering "anti-state slogans".

Ismail was briefly detained in October after speaking at another PTM meeting. Her brief disappearance this week has inflamed social networks, with the hashtag #WhereIsGulalai going viral.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She has been freed, but "as a human rights defender, she is still not safe," said Rabia Mehmood, a researcher for Amnesty International.

"It is really alarming that peaceful protests are constantly targeted by the Pakistani state," she added.

The PTM is demanding, among other things, an end to what it says are enforced disappearances and extra-judicial murders of ethnic Pashtuns by police and other security officials.&nbsp;

Ismail is also the co-founder of Aware Girls, an NGO that promotes gender equality. She has received several international awards.&nbsp;

One of Pakistan's leading women's rights activists has been released from police custody, she told AFP Thursday, after Amnesty International said she and others had been detained "arbitrarily".

One of Pakistan's leading women's rights activists has been released from police custody, she told AFP Thursday, after Amnesty International said she and others had been detained "arbitrarily". Gulalai Ismail was arrested along with 17 other members of the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), a peaceful organisation defending the rights of ethnic Pashtuns, during a protest in Islamabad on Tuesday. "It was very painful for my family, who tool 30 hours to know where I was," she told AFP, adding that she had been freed late Wednesday. She was separated from the other activists, she said, and was not placed under official arrest. "They didn't charge me with anything. They didn't let me contact my lawyer. They just kept moving me around," she said. "You cannot arrest citizens and just disappear them." An Islamabad police official dealing with the case swept the claims aside. Police follow "a proper procedure and her claims of an encounter are unthinkable," he told AFP, referring to extra-judicial murders, or "encounter killings" as they are commonly known in Pakistan. He accused Ismail and the other activists of uttering "anti-state slogans". Ismail was briefly detained in October after speaking at another PTM meeting. Her brief disappearance this week has inflamed social networks, with the hashtag #WhereIsGulalai going viral. She has been freed, but "as a human rights defender, she is still not safe," said Rabia Mehmood, a researcher for Amnesty International. "It is really alarming that peaceful protests are constantly targeted by the Pakistani state," she added. The PTM is demanding, among other things, an end to what it says are enforced disappearances and extra-judicial murders of ethnic Pashtuns by police and other security officials. Ismail is also the co-founder of Aware Girls, an NGO that promotes gender equality. She has received several international awards.

Pakistan women's rights activist released from detention

pakistan-0

Pakistan, News on Pakistan, stories on Pakistan, articles on Pakistan, Pakistan stories at Wion, Pakistan news, Pakistan latest news

pakistan 0

US, Taliban talks in Pakistan postponed

Pulwama attack: Pakistan calls back high commissioner to India 'for consultations'

Gunmen kill four soldiers in attack in Pakistan's Baluchistan

Official website of Pakistan's Foreign Ministry hacked

Mission to isolate Pakistan: India raises Pulwama terror attack issue at Munich conference

Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif shifted to hospital in Lahore from jail

Pakistan says Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Islamabad delayed by a day

Afghan Taliban likely to meet Saudi crown prince in Pakistan: Report

US vows to back India in war against terror

Pakistan committed to implementing ICJ's decision in Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Official

Pakistan gets ready to woo Saudi Crown Prince, hopes to sign raft of investment deals

JeM chief Masood Azhar: His plan, origin and motive to target India

Pulwama terror attack: Enough is enough, we need to treat Pakistan like a pariah

Pulwama terror attack: Enough is enough, we need to treat Pakistan like a pariah

Pulwama attack: India hits out at Pakistan, sends a message to China

India's failure to isolate us diplomatically is a victory for Pak: Foreign minister Qureshi

US urges citizens to 'reconsider' travelling to Pakistan due to terrorism

The significance of Saudi Crown Prince's visit to Pakistan

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit cash-strapped Pakistan on February 16

MQM chief Altaf Hussain urges India to help Mohajirs in Pakistan

Pakistan announces 'massive' social media crackdown

Pakistan took right direction in acquiring nuclear prowess: Army official

January Ceasefire Violations: India raises the matter with Pakistan

International skiers take to slopes in Pakistan