A Pakistani team will visit India on March 13 to discuss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-land-acquisition-underway-india-to-send-draft-plan-to-pakistan-in-1-month-195400">the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor</a>, which will then be followed by the visit of an Indian team to Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan has proposed two new dates — in responsed to an Indian proposal — March 13 for the visit of the Pakistani delegation, followed by a return visit of the Indian delegation on March 28 to finalise the draft agreement for the Kartarpur corridor.

The Indian proposal on January 22 had proposed the dates of February 26 and March 7 for the Indian and Pakistani officials to meet on.&nbsp;

In a tweet on Thursday evening, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We welcome the visit of Pakistan team to discuss and finalise modalities for facilitating visit of pilgrims through Kartarpur Sahib Corridor on 13 March 2019 to India. Follow up meeting can be held in Pakistan, as required."

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We welcome the visit of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> team to discuss and finalise modalities for facilitating visit of pilgrims through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kartarpur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kartarpur</a> Sahib Corridor on 13 March 2019 to India. Follow up meeting can be held in Pakistan, as required. 1/2
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1093525950111727616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has also proposed technical-level discussions between engineers on both sides without waiting for the discussion on the modalities.&nbsp;

"We hope Pakistan would positively respond &amp; confirm coordinates of crossing point as well," Kumar tweeted Thursday.&nbsp;

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For expeditious realisation of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kartarpurcorridor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kartarpurcorridor</a>, India has also proposed technical level discussions between engineers on both sides without waiting for discussion on the modalities. We hope <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> would positively respond &amp; confirm coordinates of crossing point as well. 2/2
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1093525952041168902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has already shared with Pakistan the coordinates of the corridor's zero or crossing point along the International Border.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, speaking to the Pakistani media, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria called the Kartarpur corridor a "corridor of faith" that will build trust between the two countries. "I am certain this vision will drive the relationship between India and Pakistan," he said.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the second inter-agency meet on the Kartarpur corridor took place at the home ministry. The meet was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and attended by the Punjab chief secretary, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and BSF Director General RK Misra.

India will be sending Pakistan a draft proposal on the corridor very soon, even as the process of land acquisition for the corridor gathers pace.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Punjab Chief Secretary Karan Avtar Singh said, "We are hopeful that we will send the draft proposal to Pakistan and complete legal modalities within a month."

India and Pakistan approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor last year so that Indian pilgrims could easily visit the Kartarpur gurudwara in Pakistan to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak this year. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, lived for 18 years at Kartarpur gurudwara.&nbsp;

India's Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Indian side on November 26 2018 while Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Pakistan side on November 28.&nbsp;

A Pakistani team will visit India on March 13 to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor, which will then be followed by the visit of an Indian team to Pakistan.

A Pakistani team will visit India on March 13 to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor, which will then be followed by the visit of an Indian team to Pakistan. Pakistan has proposed two new dates — in responsed to an Indian proposal — March 13 for the visit of the Pakistani delegation, followed by a return visit of the Indian delegation on March 28 to finalise the draft agreement for the Kartarpur corridor. The Indian proposal on January 22 had proposed the dates of February 26 and March 7 for the Indian and Pakistani officials to meet on. In a tweet on Thursday evening, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We welcome the visit of Pakistan team to discuss and finalise modalities for facilitating visit of pilgrims through Kartarpur Sahib Corridor on 13 March 2019 to India. Follow up meeting can be held in Pakistan, as required." We welcome the visit of #Pakistan team to discuss and finalise modalities for facilitating visit of pilgrims through #Kartarpur Sahib Corridor on 13 March 2019 to India. Follow up meeting can be held in Pakistan, as required. 1/2 — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 7, 2019 × India has also proposed technical-level discussions between engineers on both sides without waiting for the discussion on the modalities. "We hope Pakistan would positively respond & confirm coordinates of crossing point as well," Kumar tweeted Thursday. For expeditious realisation of #kartarpurcorridor, India has also proposed technical level discussions between engineers on both sides without waiting for discussion on the modalities. We hope #Pakistan would positively respond & confirm coordinates of crossing point as well. 2/2 — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 7, 2019 × India has already shared with Pakistan the coordinates of the corridor's zero or crossing point along the International Border. Meanwhile, speaking to the Pakistani media, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria called the Kartarpur corridor a "corridor of faith" that will build trust between the two countries. "I am certain this vision will drive the relationship between India and Pakistan," he said. Earlier this week, the second inter-agency meet on the Kartarpur corridor took place at the home ministry. The meet was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and attended by the Punjab chief secretary, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and BSF Director General RK Misra. India will be sending Pakistan a draft proposal on the corridor very soon, even as the process of land acquisition for the corridor gathers pace. Briefing reporters after the meeting, Punjab Chief Secretary Karan Avtar Singh said, "We are hopeful that we will send the draft proposal to Pakistan and complete legal modalities within a month." India and Pakistan approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor last year so that Indian pilgrims could easily visit the Kartarpur gurudwara in Pakistan to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak this year. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, lived for 18 years at Kartarpur gurudwara. India's Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Indian side on November 26 2018 while Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Pakistan side on November 28.

Kartarpur corridor: Pakistani team to visit India on March 13, discuss modalities

In a positive development, India and Pakistan both cleared each other's pending diplomatic and official visas on Thursday. Both the countries also agreed on visas of air advisors which had become a thorny issue. The issue of visas for air advisors was agreed after intervention at the High Commissioner level.&nbsp;

Senior officials while confirming the development to WION said, "Fruit of intense diplomacy through High Commission. Diplomats should continue labouring to promote understanding, even when relations are strained"

Visa exchange is a routine issue but given the nature of India, Pakistan ties and current developments such as Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi calling separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq which led to the summoning of Pakistan High Commissioner by India, the development shows a working relationship, at least, at a diplomatic level between the two countries.

This is also significant given the fact that tension between the two countries was high after Pakistani Foreign Minster participated in a number of anti-India events including "Kashmir solidarity day" in London.&nbsp;

The month of January saw Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria meeting Pakistan Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood called on Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

Both countries are now working on India Pakistan officials meet to decide on the modalities for the Kartarpur corridor. The first of such meet will take place on March 13 in India.

The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992 among other protocols.&nbsp;

The code of conduct calls for "smooth and unhindered" functioning of diplomatic and consular officials in conformity with "recognised norms of international law and practice."

In a positive development, India and Pakistan both cleared each other's pending diplomatic and official visas on Thursday. Both the countries also agreed on visas of air advisors which had become a thorny issue.

In a positive development, India and Pakistan both cleared each other's pending diplomatic and official visas on Thursday. Both the countries also agreed on visas of air advisors which had become a thorny issue. The issue of visas for air advisors was agreed after intervention at the High Commissioner level. Senior officials while confirming the development to WION said, "Fruit of intense diplomacy through High Commission. Diplomats should continue labouring to promote understanding, even when relations are strained" Visa exchange is a routine issue but given the nature of India, Pakistan ties and current developments such as Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi calling separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq which led to the summoning of Pakistan High Commissioner by India, the development shows a working relationship, at least, at a diplomatic level between the two countries. This is also significant given the fact that tension between the two countries was high after Pakistani Foreign Minster participated in a number of anti-India events including "Kashmir solidarity day" in London. The month of January saw Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria meeting Pakistan Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood called on Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. Both countries are now working on India Pakistan officials meet to decide on the modalities for the Kartarpur corridor. The first of such meet will take place on March 13 in India. The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992 among other protocols. The code of conduct calls for "smooth and unhindered" functioning of diplomatic and consular officials in conformity with "recognised norms of international law and practice."

India, Pakistan approve long pending diplomatic visas

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani was stopped from leaving the country by security officials at the Lahore airport late Tuesday night.

According to the Federal Investigation Agency, Gilani had reached the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore to catch his flight for South Korea via Bangkok to attend a conference. However, his name was on the no-fly list.

"At the immigration counter, Mr Gilani was told that his name was placed on them, therefore, he could not leave the country," the FIA said, adding that it was following orders from the interior ministry.

Reacting strongly, the senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader said he had always appeared in court in the different ongoing cases against him.

"There was no point in placing my name on (the) no-fly list. I was not fleeing the country. Prime Minister Imran Khan's sole agenda seems to be targeting his political opponents," he said.

The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government should have informed me about blacklisting my name, Gilani said, adding that he will challenge the "illegal decision of the government".

Gilani is facing several corruption cases and last week, the accountability court of Islamabad had rejected his plea seeking exemption from personal appearance in a case related to awarding alleged illegal advertising contract to a private ad agency.

He is accused of misusing authority to illegally grant Messrs Midas an advertising contract in contravention of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules.

The act is reported to have cost the national treasury Rs 129.07 million.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani was stopped from leaving the country by security officials at the Lahore airport late Tuesday night. According to the Federal Investigation Agency, Gilani had reached the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore to catch his flight for South Korea via Bangkok to attend a conference.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani was stopped from leaving the country by security officials at the Lahore airport late Tuesday night. According to the Federal Investigation Agency, Gilani had reached the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore to catch his flight for South Korea via Bangkok to attend a conference. However, his name was on the no-fly list. "At the immigration counter, Mr Gilani was told that his name was placed on them, therefore, he could not leave the country," the FIA said, adding that it was following orders from the interior ministry. Reacting strongly, the senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader said he had always appeared in court in the different ongoing cases against him. "There was no point in placing my name on (the) no-fly list. I was not fleeing the country. Prime Minister Imran Khan's sole agenda seems to be targeting his political opponents," he said. The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government should have informed me about blacklisting my name, Gilani said, adding that he will challenge the "illegal decision of the government". Gilani is facing several corruption cases and last week, the accountability court of Islamabad had rejected his plea seeking exemption from personal appearance in a case related to awarding alleged illegal advertising contract to a private ad agency. He is accused of misusing authority to illegally grant Messrs Midas an advertising contract in contravention of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules. The act is reported to have cost the national treasury Rs 129.07 million.

Former Pakistan PM Gilani stopped from leaving country

Pakistan's anti-graft body on Wednesday arrested Punjab government's powerful senior minister Abdul Aleem Khan for possessing assets beyond his known sources of income.

The arrest has come as a jolt for Prime Minister Imran Khan who is already facing a barrage of criticism for running the province of over 100 million people through his 'puppet' Chief Minister Usman Buzdar.

"We have arrested Punjab senior minister Abdul Aleem Khan for possessing assets beyond his known sources of income and he will be presented before an accountability court in Lahore on Thursday," National Accountability Bureau spokesperson Nawazish Ali Asim said in a statement.

The NAB has been probing Aleem Khan in multiple inquiries, including his offshore company Hexam Investment Overseas Ltd, owning assets beyond his known sources of income and his two housing societies - Park View housing society and River Age Housing Society in Lahore - for the last one year or so.

Punjab Information Minister Fayazul Hasan Chohan said the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf party will not protest over the NAB's decision to arrest the minister. "Unlike the opposition, we will not surround the NAB offices," he said.

Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has welcomed the arrest of the minister and said that there should be across the board possibility.&nbsp;

"We want PM Khan to sack all those cabinet members who are facing NAB investigation on corruption charges," PML-N senior leader and former Sindh governor Muhammad Zubair said.

PML-N president and opposition leader in the National Assembly, Shehbaz Sharif, the younger brother of former premier Nawaz Sharif, is also in jail in NAB's custody in a corruption case.

Pakistan's anti-graft body on Wednesday arrested Punjab government's powerful senior minister Abdul Aleem Khan for possessing assets beyond his known sources of income.

Pakistan's anti-graft body on Wednesday arrested Punjab government's powerful senior minister Abdul Aleem Khan for possessing assets beyond his known sources of income. The arrest has come as a jolt for Prime Minister Imran Khan who is already facing a barrage of criticism for running the province of over 100 million people through his 'puppet' Chief Minister Usman Buzdar. "We have arrested Punjab senior minister Abdul Aleem Khan for possessing assets beyond his known sources of income and he will be presented before an accountability court in Lahore on Thursday," National Accountability Bureau spokesperson Nawazish Ali Asim said in a statement. The NAB has been probing Aleem Khan in multiple inquiries, including his offshore company Hexam Investment Overseas Ltd, owning assets beyond his known sources of income and his two housing societies - Park View housing society and River Age Housing Society in Lahore - for the last one year or so. Punjab Information Minister Fayazul Hasan Chohan said the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf party will not protest over the NAB's decision to arrest the minister. "Unlike the opposition, we will not surround the NAB offices," he said. Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has welcomed the arrest of the minister and said that there should be across the board possibility. "We want PM Khan to sack all those cabinet members who are facing NAB investigation on corruption charges," PML-N senior leader and former Sindh governor Muhammad Zubair said. PML-N president and opposition leader in the National Assembly, Shehbaz Sharif, the younger brother of former premier Nawaz Sharif, is also in jail in NAB's custody in a corruption case.

Pakistan's anti-graft body arrests Punjab government's senior minister

Two vehicles carrying passengers collided head-on in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday, killing at least 16 people and injuring four others, police said.&nbsp;

The passenger van was travelling to Dera Ismail Khan from Peshawar when it collided with a pick-up truck near the Sipena Bandi Village in Karak, resulting in the death of 16 people.&nbsp;

Four other injured were taken to a nearby hospital, police said.

"The collision caused bursting of the CNG cylinder of the van, thereby causing casualties, the investigation is underway," police said.&nbsp;

Two vehicles carrying passengers collided head-on in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday, killing at least 16 people and injuring four others, police said.

Two vehicles carrying passengers collided head-on in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday, killing at least 16 people and injuring four others, police said. The passenger van was travelling to Dera Ismail Khan from Peshawar when it collided with a pick-up truck near the Sipena Bandi Village in Karak, resulting in the death of 16 people. Four other injured were taken to a nearby hospital, police said. "The collision caused bursting of the CNG cylinder of the van, thereby causing casualties, the investigation is underway," police said.

Pakistan: 16 dead, four injured in road accident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province

The second major inter-agency coordination meet on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-agree-to-build-kartarpur-corridor-imran-khan-to-break-ground-on-november-28-178837">Kartapur Corridor</a> took place on Tuesday at the Ministry of Home Affairs with authorities saying India was hopeful of sending a draft of the plan to Pakistan within a month.&nbsp;

Tuesday's meet was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and attended by the Punjab chief secretary, the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, and the BSF Director General RK Misra.

Briefing the media after the meeting, Punjab Chief Secretary Karan Avtar Singh said, "All concerned GOI stakeholders and Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria attended the meeting. We discussed on aspects of the agreement that we want to finalise with Pakistan. We are hopeful that we will send the draft proposal to Pakistan and complete legal modalities within a month."

He also confirmed that the land acquisition process has started.&nbsp;

"Land acquisition work is in progress. This involves four stages, we are in the second stage as of now. We are hopeful that in a month and a half we will complete this process," Singh said

Top sources told WION that land acquisition for a highway and an integrated checkpost (ICP) was discussed at Tuesday's meeting. On Wednesday, February 6, India will issue a notification to acquire land for the ICP with a detailed plan for it is being finalised within the next few days.

A preliminary notification for land acquisition for the highway has already been issued.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) will be constructing the highway and the ICP, with the Punjab government assuring the availability of land for them by mid-march.

The first meet on the corridor took place on January 15.&nbsp;

India shared coordinates of the corridor's Zero Point (crossing point) along the International Border with Pakistan on November 22. New Delhi has also invited a Pakistani delegation to India to discuss and finalise the modalities of the corridor and suggested two sets of dates — February 12 and March 7, 2019.&nbsp;

Pakistan has not yet responded.&nbsp;

The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, lived for 18 years in Pakistan's Kartarpur gurudwara.

India approved the building of the Kartarpur Corridor last year so that pilgrims can easily visit the gurudwara to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak this year. Pakistan later announced that it would also build, on its side of the border, a corridor from the Kartarpur gurudwara to the international border.&nbsp;

India's Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Indian side of the border on November 26, 2018 while Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Pakistani side on November 28.

The second major inter-agency coordination meet on the Kartapur Corridor took place on Tuesday at the Ministry of Home Affairs with authorities saying India was hopeful of sending a draft of the plan to Pakistan within a month.

The second major inter-agency coordination meet on the Kartapur Corridor took place on Tuesday at the Ministry of Home Affairs with authorities saying India was hopeful of sending a draft of the plan to Pakistan within a month. Tuesday's meet was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and attended by the Punjab chief secretary, the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, and the BSF Director General RK Misra. Briefing the media after the meeting, Punjab Chief Secretary Karan Avtar Singh said, "All concerned GOI stakeholders and Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria attended the meeting. We discussed on aspects of the agreement that we want to finalise with Pakistan. We are hopeful that we will send the draft proposal to Pakistan and complete legal modalities within a month." He also confirmed that the land acquisition process has started. "Land acquisition work is in progress. This involves four stages, we are in the second stage as of now. We are hopeful that in a month and a half we will complete this process," Singh said Top sources told WION that land acquisition for a highway and an integrated checkpost (ICP) was discussed at Tuesday's meeting. On Wednesday, February 6, India will issue a notification to acquire land for the ICP with a detailed plan for it is being finalised within the next few days. A preliminary notification for land acquisition for the highway has already been issued. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) will be constructing the highway and the ICP, with the Punjab government assuring the availability of land for them by mid-march. The first meet on the corridor took place on January 15. India shared coordinates of the corridor's Zero Point (crossing point) along the International Border with Pakistan on November 22. New Delhi has also invited a Pakistani delegation to India to discuss and finalise the modalities of the corridor and suggested two sets of dates — February 12 and March 7, 2019. Pakistan has not yet responded. The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, lived for 18 years in Pakistan's Kartarpur gurudwara. India approved the building of the Kartarpur Corridor last year so that pilgrims can easily visit the gurudwara to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak this year. Pakistan later announced that it would also build, on its side of the border, a corridor from the Kartarpur gurudwara to the international border. India's Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Indian side of the border on November 26, 2018 while Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone for the corridor on the Pakistani side on November 28.

Kartarpur Corridor: Land acquisition underway, India to send draft plan to Pakistan in 1 month

In a pre-emptive strike to stop the Pashtuns from backing the Baloch cause of freedom from Pakistan, the Pakistani security forces heckled, harassed and arrested a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-police-arrest-pashtun-rights-activist-amnesty-calls-for-release-192075">group of Pashtun leaders</a>, when they were going to attend the funeral of Arman Loni.

A local <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pashtun-council-canada-holds-protest-to-condemn-killing-of-prominent-activist-by-pakistan-195017">Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Arman Loni </a>died after Pakistani forces opened fire when he and his supporters were peacefully protesting against the growing forced evictions in the region.

It is pertinent to mention here that this is not the only incident which sheds light on Pakistan’s brutality that uses military high-handedness to keep control over the people and the resources of the region.

This incident has sparked a widespread rage on social media as well.

People are demanding authorities to bring the culprits to justice.

Pakistan has also been carrying out a similar oppressive agenda against ethnic Pashtuns.

Islamabad leadership, which largely works at the commands of army Generals sitting in Rawalpindi, has been committing human rights violations of the highest degree to keep people of the region at bay from the mainstream.

The Pashtun community has been regularly protesting and seeking justice for the atrocities committed by security forces in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Federally Administered Tribal Areas.

However, a new liaison between Sindhis and Balochs is set to pose a bigger challenge to authoritarian leadership of Pakistan which has separately and systematically been carrying out its oppression in the region.&nbsp;

Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) - a political movement, which has been campaigning extensively against the Pakistani military’s cruelty has been rapidly gaining ground in Balochistan and have been successful at gathering traction amongst the masses of Balochistan, who have been seeking freedom from Pakistani clutches for decades now.

 
&nbsp;

In a pre-emptive strike to stop the Pashtuns from backing the Baloch cause of freedom from Pakistan, the Pakistani security forces heckled, harassed and arrested a group of Pashtun leaders, when they were going to attend the funeral of Arman Loni.

In a pre-emptive strike to stop the Pashtuns from backing the Baloch cause of freedom from Pakistan, the Pakistani security forces heckled, harassed and arrested a group of Pashtun leaders, when they were going to attend the funeral of Arman Loni. 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. It is pertinent to mention here that this is not the only incident which sheds light on Pakistan’s brutality that uses military high-handedness to keep control over the people and the resources of the region. This incident has sparked a widespread rage on social media as well. People are demanding authorities to bring the culprits to justice. Pakistan has also been carrying out a similar oppressive agenda against ethnic Pashtuns. Islamabad leadership, which largely works at the commands of army Generals sitting in Rawalpindi, has been committing human rights violations of the highest degree to keep people of the region at bay from the mainstream. The Pashtun community has been regularly protesting and seeking justice for the atrocities committed by security forces in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Federally Administered Tribal Areas. However, a new liaison between Sindhis and Balochs is set to pose a bigger challenge to authoritarian leadership of Pakistan which has separately and systematically been carrying out its oppression in the region. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) - a political movement, which has been campaigning extensively against the Pakistani military’s cruelty has been rapidly gaining ground in Balochistan and have been successful at gathering traction amongst the masses of Balochistan, who have been seeking freedom from Pakistani clutches for decades now.

Pak security forces arrest Pashtun leaders backing Baloch freedom

Authorities in Pakistan's Baluchistan province said on Sunday they had launched an investigation into the death of a regional leader of a Pakistani civil rights group, who died in what his movement called a "targeted attack" by police at a sit-in.

Arman Loni died on Saturday after police tried to break up a four-day demonstration in the city of Loralai by the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), which stages demonstrations nationwide against violence and disappearances carried out by the state.

A police spokesman said Loni had died of a heart attack following clashes between protesters and police. But Mohsin Dawar, a member of parliament and founding member of PTM, said the police had singled Loni out and deliberately beat him to death because of his role as a leader of the group.

"It was a targeted attack on him by police, I think his neck was broken and this was confirmed in the postmortem," Dawar told Reuters, adding that he was killed for his "association with PTM".

The group, which was founded a year ago to protest against the death of a Pashtun man killed by police in the southern port of Karachi, regularly draws thousands of protesters to its demonstrations against state violence. It has called nationwide protests for Tuesday to highlight the killing of Loni.

The Baluchistan chief minister has ordered an inquiry into the killing. Both the Baluchistan home minister and information minister said they had no knowledge of how he died.

PTM blames the Pakistani military and other state organs for what it says are forced disappearances resulting in thousands of unresolved missing person cases, primarily from the ethnic Pashtun region bordering Afghanistan.

Dawar and fellow lawmaker Ali Wazir, both PTM founders who were elected to parliament in July, were initially barred from entering Baluchistan by security officials and had to use "alternate routes" to make it to Loni's funeral, Dawar said.

A notification from the provincial home department reviewed by Reuters said Dawar and Wazir were barred from entering the province for 90 days in "the best interest of peace and security".

Provincial Home Minister Agha Umer Bangulzai confirmed that PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen had been barred from the province but said he knew nothing about movement restrictions on the two lawmakers Dawar and Wazir.

Last month Alamzeb Mehsud, another senior PTM leader, was arrested in Karachi, causing a social media outcry. He has been charged under anti-terrorism and public order laws. Supporters say he has been targeted for protesting against abuses by the military.

Authorities in Pakistan's Baluchistan province said on Sunday they had launched an investigation into the death of a regional leader of a Pakistani civil rights group, who died in what his movement called a "targeted attack" by police at a sit-in.

Authorities in Pakistan's Baluchistan province said on Sunday they had launched an investigation into the death of a regional leader of a Pakistani civil rights group, who died in what his movement called a "targeted attack" by police at a sit-in. Arman Loni died on Saturday after police tried to break up a four-day demonstration in the city of Loralai by the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), which stages demonstrations nationwide against violence and disappearances carried out by the state. A police spokesman said Loni had died of a heart attack following clashes between protesters and police. But Mohsin Dawar, a member of parliament and founding member of PTM, said the police had singled Loni out and deliberately beat him to death because of his role as a leader of the group. "It was a targeted attack on him by police, I think his neck was broken and this was confirmed in the postmortem," Dawar told Reuters, adding that he was killed for his "association with PTM". The group, which was founded a year ago to protest against the death of a Pashtun man killed by police in the southern port of Karachi, regularly draws thousands of protesters to its demonstrations against state violence. It has called nationwide protests for Tuesday to highlight the killing of Loni. The Baluchistan chief minister has ordered an inquiry into the killing. Both the Baluchistan home minister and information minister said they had no knowledge of how he died. PTM blames the Pakistani military and other state organs for what it says are forced disappearances resulting in thousands of unresolved missing person cases, primarily from the ethnic Pashtun region bordering Afghanistan. Dawar and fellow lawmaker Ali Wazir, both PTM founders who were elected to parliament in July, were initially barred from entering Baluchistan by security officials and had to use "alternate routes" to make it to Loni's funeral, Dawar said. A notification from the provincial home department reviewed by Reuters said Dawar and Wazir were barred from entering the province for 90 days in "the best interest of peace and security". Provincial Home Minister Agha Umer Bangulzai confirmed that PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen had been barred from the province but said he knew nothing about movement restrictions on the two lawmakers Dawar and Wazir. Last month Alamzeb Mehsud, another senior PTM leader, was arrested in Karachi, causing a social media outcry. He has been charged under anti-terrorism and public order laws. Supporters say he has been targeted for protesting against abuses by the military.

Prominent human rights leader killed by police in Pakistan: Civil rights group

The Pashtun Council Canada on Sunday held protests in Mississauga to condemn the killing of Arman Lonri, a prominent member of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-police-arrest-pashtun-rights-activist-amnesty-calls-for-release-192075">Pashtun movement</a>, and other Pashtun activists by the Pakistan state agency.

Speaking to the media, a member of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement said, “We have gathered here to express our anger over the killing of human rights activist Arman Lonri, a prominent leader and member of our movement, along with the injustice done to thousands of Pashtuns by the Pakistani state apparatus, who continue to arrest people and put them in private jails, not even in state jails.”

Pashtun Tahafuz Movement started a year ago, whereby a number of young individuals gathered together to demand the release of the missing people (those detained by the Pakistan government), including their mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers, the party member noted.

“But instead of listening to their demands and grievances, the Pakistan government started killing and imprisoning the leaders of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement,” he added.“Therefore, we Pashtuns from all around the world, demand an international inquiry into such atrocities.

&nbsp;We want the international community and the human rights organisations to initiate this process and force Pakistan to rearrange their policies and change its behaviour towards our civil rights demands.&nbsp;We want the state to stop terrorising and doing civilian atrocities on our soil,” the person said.

Reiterating the same demand, a member of the World Sindhi Congress, present at the protest, stated, “We are here today in solidarity with the Pashtun Council Canada, which is protesting against the murder of Lonri and other innocent Pashtuns by the Pakistan state agency.&nbsp;

Such atrocities have been going on in Pakistan since the last 70 years, with the Balochs, Sindhis, and Bangladeshis.”A Balochistan National Party member said, “We are together with our Pashtun brothers, sharing their grief. We will continue to raise our voice against the termination of civil rights by Pakistan and urge the state to stop the extrajudicial killings.”

The Pashtun Council Canada on Sunday held protests in Mississauga to condemn the killing of Arman Lonri, a prominent member of the Pashtun movement, and other Pashtun activists by the Pakistan state agency.

The Pashtun Council Canada on Sunday held protests in Mississauga to condemn the killing of Arman Lonri, a prominent member of the Pashtun movement, and other Pashtun activists by the Pakistan state agency. Speaking to the media, a member of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement said, “We have gathered here to express our anger over the killing of human rights activist Arman Lonri, a prominent leader and member of our movement, along with the injustice done to thousands of Pashtuns by the Pakistani state apparatus, who continue to arrest people and put them in private jails, not even in state jails.” Pashtun Tahafuz Movement started a year ago, whereby a number of young individuals gathered together to demand the release of the missing people (those detained by the Pakistan government), including their mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers, the party member noted. “But instead of listening to their demands and grievances, the Pakistan government started killing and imprisoning the leaders of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement,” he added.“Therefore, we Pashtuns from all around the world, demand an international inquiry into such atrocities. We want the international community and the human rights organisations to initiate this process and force Pakistan to rearrange their policies and change its behaviour towards our civil rights demands. We want the state to stop terrorising and doing civilian atrocities on our soil,” the person said. Reiterating the same demand, a member of the World Sindhi Congress, present at the protest, stated, “We are here today in solidarity with the Pashtun Council Canada, which is protesting against the murder of Lonri and other innocent Pashtuns by the Pakistan state agency. Such atrocities have been going on in Pakistan since the last 70 years, with the Balochs, Sindhis, and Bangladeshis.”A Balochistan National Party member said, “We are together with our Pashtun brothers, sharing their grief. We will continue to raise our voice against the termination of civil rights by Pakistan and urge the state to stop the extrajudicial killings.”

Pashtun Council Canada holds protest to condemn killing of prominent activist by Pakistan

Babar Azam hit a majestic 90 but Pakistan's long streak of series wins came to an end in the second Twenty20 international against South Africa at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.

South Africa took a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series with a dramatic seven-run win. Pakistan had not lost a T20 series since they were eliminated from the World T20 in India in March 2016.

Pakistan were on track to overhaul South Africa's 188 for three until Azam was out off the first ball of the 17th over. It started a collapse in which six wickets fell for 34 runs in four overs.

The contrast between the two innings was stark. South Africa started slowly but stand-in captain David Miller plundered an unbeaten 65 off 29 balls as the hosts scored 127 runs off the last ten overs, including 29 off the final over bowled by Usman Shinwari.

Pakistan scored rapidly at the start of their innings, with Azam hitting the first three balls off Beuran Hendricks for four. It was 70 for one at the end of the six-over power play –- 26 runs ahead of South Africa's total at the same stage.

Azam and Hussain Talat (59) put on 102 off 75 balls for the second wicket.

"We had the game but we couldn't finish it," said Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik.

The tempo of the game changed when Azam pulled a slower ball from Beuran Hendricks to deep midwicket after hitting 13 fours and a six in a 58-ball innings.

"We didn't start too well with the ball," said Miller, who was named man of the match. "We were too short and too wide but the bowlers pulled it back."

Although neither took a wicket, Miller praised left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi and new fast bowler Lutho Sipamla for economical bowling in the middle overs before the late-innings collapse.

Miller, captaining South Africa for the first time because Faf du Plessis was rested for the last two matches of the series, hit five sixes and four fours in an explosive innings, which followed a similarly aggressive 45 off 27 balls by Rassie van der Dussen, who hit four sixes.

South Africa made a relatively sedate start on an unusually slow, dry Wanderers pitch. Left-arm spinner Imad Wasim, who opened the bowling, took one for nine in four overs. He bowled a maiden to new opening batsman Janneman Malan, who had an otherwise promising innings of 33 off 31 balls.

Left-arm fast bowler Shinwari conceded 63 runs off his four overs.

Babar Azam hit a majestic 90 but Pakistan's long streak of series wins came to an end in the second Twenty20 international against South Africa at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.

Babar Azam hit a majestic 90 but Pakistan's long streak of series wins came to an end in the second Twenty20 international against South Africa at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. South Africa took a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series with a dramatic seven-run win. Pakistan had not lost a T20 series since they were eliminated from the World T20 in India in March 2016. Pakistan were on track to overhaul South Africa's 188 for three until Azam was out off the first ball of the 17th over. It started a collapse in which six wickets fell for 34 runs in four overs. The contrast between the two innings was stark. South Africa started slowly but stand-in captain David Miller plundered an unbeaten 65 off 29 balls as the hosts scored 127 runs off the last ten overs, including 29 off the final over bowled by Usman Shinwari. Pakistan scored rapidly at the start of their innings, with Azam hitting the first three balls off Beuran Hendricks for four. It was 70 for one at the end of the six-over power play –- 26 runs ahead of South Africa's total at the same stage. Azam and Hussain Talat (59) put on 102 off 75 balls for the second wicket. "We had the game but we couldn't finish it," said Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik. The tempo of the game changed when Azam pulled a slower ball from Beuran Hendricks to deep midwicket after hitting 13 fours and a six in a 58-ball innings. "We didn't start too well with the ball," said Miller, who was named man of the match. "We were too short and too wide but the bowlers pulled it back." Although neither took a wicket, Miller praised left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi and new fast bowler Lutho Sipamla for economical bowling in the middle overs before the late-innings collapse. Miller, captaining South Africa for the first time because Faf du Plessis was rested for the last two matches of the series, hit five sixes and four fours in an explosive innings, which followed a similarly aggressive 45 off 27 balls by Rassie van der Dussen, who hit four sixes. South Africa made a relatively sedate start on an unusually slow, dry Wanderers pitch. Left-arm spinner Imad Wasim, who opened the bowling, took one for nine in four overs. He bowled a maiden to new opening batsman Janneman Malan, who had an otherwise promising innings of 33 off 31 balls. Left-arm fast bowler Shinwari conceded 63 runs off his four overs.

South Africa beat Pakistan by seven runs, win T20 series

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called up hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in yet another provocative act on the eve of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-jammu-and-kashmir-on-february-3-ram-madhav-191632">Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir</a>.

During the phone call, Qureshi discussed the situation in Kashmir with Geelani, according to ARY channel.

Geelani is the second Kashmiri separatist leader whom Qureshi called up in the last few days.

Earlier, he had a telephonic conversation Hurriyat chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

India took strong objection to that phone call and Pakistan's High Commissioner in New Delhi Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale to lodge a protest.

Gokhale bluntly told Mahmood that Pakistan should desist from such provocative actions, failing which there will be "implications".

Significantly, Qureshi`s phone call to Geelani came just a day ahead of the prime minister`s visit to the state.

Prime minister Modi will launch several developmental projects during the day-long visit.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called up hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in yet another provocative act on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday called up hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in yet another provocative act on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir. During the phone call, Qureshi discussed the situation in Kashmir with Geelani, according to ARY channel. Geelani is the second Kashmiri separatist leader whom Qureshi called up in the last few days. Earlier, he had a telephonic conversation Hurriyat chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. India took strong objection to that phone call and Pakistan's High Commissioner in New Delhi Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale to lodge a protest. Gokhale bluntly told Mahmood that Pakistan should desist from such provocative actions, failing which there will be "implications". Significantly, Qureshi`s phone call to Geelani came just a day ahead of the prime minister`s visit to the state. Prime minister Modi will launch several developmental projects during the day-long visit.

Pakistan Foreign Minister calls up Kashmiri separatist leader Geelani

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-foreign-minister-calls-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-india-calls-it-regressive-step-193753">telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader </a>Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said.

India Wednesday summoned Pakistan envoy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-pak-high-commissioner-over-foreign-minister-qureshis-phone-call-to-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-193958">Sohail Mahmood</a> and categorically told him that Qureshi's telephonic conversation was a "brazen attempt" to subvert India's unity and violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-since-2014-timeline-of-summoning-of-pak-high-commissioner-by-modi-government-194002">6 times since 2014: Timeline of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-since-2014-timeline-of-summoning-of-pak-high-commissioner-by-modi-government-194002">summoning</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-since-2014-timeline-of-summoning-of-pak-high-commissioner-by-modi-government-194002"> of Pak high commissioner by Modi government</a>

Mahmood was "cautioned" by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale that persistence of such behaviour will have "implications".

Talking to the media in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said that Pakistan has no intention to interfere in the internal matters of India, but New Delhi should also stop blaming Islamabad for its problems, Dawn News reported.

The Foreign Minister acknowledged that he spoke with Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz and India should not make it an issue.

"We want to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue but India is making undue hue and cry," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

"Issues are emerging in India but Pakistan has no role in that," he said.

Qureshi said that he would highlight Pakistan's view point on Kashmir issue at an event in the House of Common in London this week.

The Foreign Minister said that election in India was an internal matter and Islamabad would try to hold talks with the new government if it wanted to work with Pakistan.

India has made it clear to Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go together.

Pakistan's relations with many countries have improved because of successful diplomacy of the incumbent government, he claimed.

He said Saudi crown prince would visit Pakistan this month. "New agreements will be signed during his visit," Qureshi said.

The Pakistan Foreign Office said Tuesday that Qureshi spoke with the Hurriyat leader and discussed with him efforts of Pakistan government to highlight the Kashmir issue.

In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir "has been, is and shall remain the integral part of India and that Pakistan has no locus standi in any matters related to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, has been made clear again to the High Commissioner of Pakistan."&nbsp;

According to the government sources in New Delhi, India was particularly anguished over Pakistan's statement on Tuesday, sharing details of the conversation that centred around the Kashmir issue.

Though Pakistani leaders may have telephoned separatists in Kashmir in the past but perhaps, it was the first time in recent years that Islamabad put out a statement highlighting the talking points which New Delhi felt was a clear case of violation of the red lines, the sources said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's major political parties issued a joint declaration at the end of All Parties Kashmir Conference on Saturday and said that peace in the region was not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue.

The declaration called on the Pakistan government to prepare an effective foreign policy to resolve the long-standing issue of Kashmir.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of the telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of the telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said. India Wednesday summoned Pakistan envoy Sohail Mahmood and categorically told him that Qureshi's telephonic conversation was a "brazen attempt" to subvert India's unity and violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Also read: 6 times since 2014: Timeline of summoning of Pak high commissioner by Modi government Mahmood was "cautioned" by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale that persistence of such behaviour will have "implications". Talking to the media in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said that Pakistan has no intention to interfere in the internal matters of India, but New Delhi should also stop blaming Islamabad for its problems, Dawn News reported. The Foreign Minister acknowledged that he spoke with Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz and India should not make it an issue. "We want to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue but India is making undue hue and cry," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. "Issues are emerging in India but Pakistan has no role in that," he said. Qureshi said that he would highlight Pakistan's view point on Kashmir issue at an event in the House of Common in London this week. The Foreign Minister said that election in India was an internal matter and Islamabad would try to hold talks with the new government if it wanted to work with Pakistan. India has made it clear to Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go together. Pakistan's relations with many countries have improved because of successful diplomacy of the incumbent government, he claimed. He said Saudi crown prince would visit Pakistan this month. "New agreements will be signed during his visit," Qureshi said. The Pakistan Foreign Office said Tuesday that Qureshi spoke with the Hurriyat leader and discussed with him efforts of Pakistan government to highlight the Kashmir issue. In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir "has been, is and shall remain the integral part of India and that Pakistan has no locus standi in any matters related to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, has been made clear again to the High Commissioner of Pakistan." According to the government sources in New Delhi, India was particularly anguished over Pakistan's statement on Tuesday, sharing details of the conversation that centred around the Kashmir issue. Though Pakistani leaders may have telephoned separatists in Kashmir in the past but perhaps, it was the first time in recent years that Islamabad put out a statement highlighting the talking points which New Delhi felt was a clear case of violation of the red lines, the sources said. Meanwhile, Pakistan's major political parties issued a joint declaration at the end of All Parties Kashmir Conference on Saturday and said that peace in the region was not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue. The declaration called on the Pakistan government to prepare an effective foreign policy to resolve the long-standing issue of Kashmir.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters: Qureshi after phone call to Mirwaiz

Even as the news of disruption caused by pro-Pakistan Khalistani demonstration in front of Indian mission comes from London and Washington, sources in New Delhi have said that currently the worst anti-India propaganda in five years is underway globally backed by Islamabad.&nbsp;

On January 26 a group 10-15 Khalistani disruptors tried to burn the Indian national flag in the presence of Pakistani media channels in Washington but the protest fizzled out due to a large number of Indian community members.&nbsp;

Not only Washington but also in London, Pakistan backed anti-India protestors tried to create disruptions.&nbsp;

In London, on January 26 a protest took place in which the Indian flag was burnt. Following this New Delhi strongly raised the matter with London.

It is believed that Pakistan is miffed with its growing isolation led by countries in South Asia.

Remember the SAARC summit of 2016 in Islamabad was cancelled after countries in the region boycotted the event due to Islamabad's support to terror in the region. After India's withdrawal Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives and Sri Lanka also issued statements boycotting the summit.

Last year an anti-India Khalistani rally was organised by Pakistani origin Lord Nazir Ahmed in Trafalgar Square of London.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in Canada also, many anti-India events were organised by pro- Khalistan groups last year.

According to Canada government report, the country itself faces threat from Khalistanis. The 2018 public report on the terrorist threat to Canada said," Canada continues to face threats from individuals inspired to commit violence based on other forms of extremism, including from right-wing, Shia Islamist, and Sikh (Khalistani) extremists"

Even as the news of disruption caused by pro-Pakistan Khalistani demonstration in front of Indian mission comes from London and Washington, sources in New Delhi have said that currently the worst anti-India propaganda in five years is underway globally backed by Islamabad.

Even as the news of disruption caused by pro-Pakistan Khalistani demonstration in front of Indian mission comes from London and Washington, sources in New Delhi have said that currently the worst anti-India propaganda in five years is underway globally backed by Islamabad. On January 26 a group 10-15 Khalistani disruptors tried to burn the Indian national flag in the presence of Pakistani media channels in Washington but the protest fizzled out due to a large number of Indian community members. Not only Washington but also in London, Pakistan backed anti-India protestors tried to create disruptions. In London, on January 26 a protest took place in which the Indian flag was burnt. Following this New Delhi strongly raised the matter with London. It is believed that Pakistan is miffed with its growing isolation led by countries in South Asia. Remember the SAARC summit of 2016 in Islamabad was cancelled after countries in the region boycotted the event due to Islamabad's support to terror in the region. After India's withdrawal Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives and Sri Lanka also issued statements boycotting the summit. Last year an anti-India Khalistani rally was organised by Pakistani origin Lord Nazir Ahmed in Trafalgar Square of London. Meanwhile, in Canada also, many anti-India events were organised by pro- Khalistan groups last year. According to Canada government report, the country itself faces threat from Khalistanis. The 2018 public report on the terrorist threat to Canada said," Canada continues to face threats from individuals inspired to commit violence based on other forms of extremism, including from right-wing, Shia Islamist, and Sikh (Khalistani) extremists"

Worst anti-India propaganda underway backed by Pakistan, sources to WION

The main facilitator of the terror attack on the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-firing-reported-outside-chinese-consulate-in-karachi-178903&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi2uKKQxJXgAhXLinAKHccMB4UQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3lzjLgFHfUcS91ShFytqbY"> Chinese consulate in Karachi </a>in November last year has been arrested from the UAE, Pakistan police has announced here.

On November 23, three heavily <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/alleged-leader-of-chinese-consulate-attack-in-pakistan-reported-killed-186752">armed militants</a> attempted to enter the Chinese consulate in the 'high security zone' of Karachi's Clifton area but were shot dead in an encounter with law enforcers.&nbsp;

The gun-and-grenade assault also claimed the lives of two police officials and two visa applicants, as well as injuring a private guard of the foreign mission.

A senior official of the Counterterrorism Department (CTD) of Sindh on Tuesday province said that the suspect named Rashid Baloch was arrested by the UAE's law-enforcement agency in Sharjah a few days ago. He was marked out as the key man behind the attack on the Chinese consulate, that was foiled by security forces but left at least seven people dead.

"Rashid Baloch alias Abdullah is not only the facilitator of the attack but also a key man of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA)," said DIG CTD Abdullah Sheikh.&nbsp;

"After the findings of the initial investigation, we were closely monitoring suspects and finally found his connection with the episode. The interesting fact, that we gathered through technological support, is that he was very close to the Chinese consulate when it was attacked and personally monitored the assault".

Rashid received Rs 949,000 to his bank account just days before the attack and he arranged all the finances, logistics and cash support to facilitate the attackers, he said.

Earlier this month, Additional IG Karachi Amir Shaikh claimed that India and its Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) assisted the attack carried out by terrorists belonging to the banned BLA.&nbsp;

The Indian government rejected the allegation, calling it fabricated and a scurrilous attempt.

"We completely reject these fabricated and scurrilous attempts to levy accusations on India," said the Ministry of External Affairs.

"Instead of maliciously pointing fingers at others for such terrorist incidents, Pakistan needs to look inwards and undertake credible action against support to terrorism and terror infrastructure in its territories," it said.

Earlier this month, the Karachi police claimed to have arrested some five facilitators from this city in connection with the attack which they claimed was carried out to "sabotage" the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The main facilitator of the terror attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi in November last year has been arrested from the UAE, Pakistan police has announced here.

The main facilitator of the terror attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi in November last year has been arrested from the UAE, Pakistan police has announced here. On November 23, three heavily armed militants attempted to enter the Chinese consulate in the 'high security zone' of Karachi's Clifton area but were shot dead in an encounter with law enforcers. The gun-and-grenade assault also claimed the lives of two police officials and two visa applicants, as well as injuring a private guard of the foreign mission. A senior official of the Counterterrorism Department (CTD) of Sindh on Tuesday province said that the suspect named Rashid Baloch was arrested by the UAE's law-enforcement agency in Sharjah a few days ago. He was marked out as the key man behind the attack on the Chinese consulate, that was foiled by security forces but left at least seven people dead. "Rashid Baloch alias Abdullah is not only the facilitator of the attack but also a key man of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA)," said DIG CTD Abdullah Sheikh. "After the findings of the initial investigation, we were closely monitoring suspects and finally found his connection with the episode. The interesting fact, that we gathered through technological support, is that he was very close to the Chinese consulate when it was attacked and personally monitored the assault". Rashid received Rs 949,000 to his bank account just days before the attack and he arranged all the finances, logistics and cash support to facilitate the attackers, he said. Earlier this month, Additional IG Karachi Amir Shaikh claimed that India and its Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) assisted the attack carried out by terrorists belonging to the banned BLA. The Indian government rejected the allegation, calling it fabricated and a scurrilous attempt. "We completely reject these fabricated and scurrilous attempts to levy accusations on India," said the Ministry of External Affairs. "Instead of maliciously pointing fingers at others for such terrorist incidents, Pakistan needs to look inwards and undertake credible action against support to terrorism and terror infrastructure in its territories," it said. Earlier this month, the Karachi police claimed to have arrested some five facilitators from this city in connection with the attack which they claimed was carried out to "sabotage" the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan says main facilitator of attack on Chinese consulate arrested in Sharjah

A six-member 'larger special medical board' on Wednesday examined Pakistan's former prime minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-to-hear-sharifs-bail-plea-on-monday-193243">Nawaz Sharif</a> in prison after doctors suggested that he has cardiac complications and should be shifted to hospital.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctors-suggest-to-shift-nawaz-sharif-from-jail-to-hospital-192514">Sharif</a>, 69, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail, was rushed to a hospital last week after he complained of heart-related complications. He was later discharged from the hospital and taken back to jail following the medical tests.

According to an official of the Punjab government, the board members took two hours examining Sharif in Kot Lakhpat jail.&nbsp;

"They conducted different tests of Sharif and thoroughly examined him", he said, adding the board will submit its report to the Punjab Home Department.&nbsp;

The official said Sharif will be given medical treatment in the light of the board's recommendations.&nbsp;

Punjab Information Minister Fayazul Hasan Chohan told PTI that the government has formed the larger special medical board in view of a previous medical board's report.&nbsp;

"If the new board suggests hospitalisation of Mr Sharif the government will implement its recommendation," he said.

Earlier, a medical board of Jinnah Hospital Lahore had declared that "Sharif is not completely well and he should be shifted to hospital from jail to get optimal treatment for his heart complications."&nbsp;

Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz said the report of the Jinnah Hospital medical board suggests that her father's disease has progressed and is life-threatening.&nbsp;

A special medical board of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology also examined Sharif earlier said he had vague symptoms of pain in both arms, particularly at night and numbness of toes.&nbsp;

Sharif was tried in three corruption case launched in September 2017. He was first convicted and sentenced for 10 years in July last year in a case related to Avenfield properties in London. The Islamabad High Court granted him bail in the case in September.

He was convicted in the Al-Azizia case but was acquitted in the Flagship investment case in December.

The cases were launched on the orders of the Supreme Court which had ousted Sharif as premier in July 2017 in connection with a case related to the Panama Papers leaks.

A six-member 'larger special medical board' on Wednesday examined Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in prison after doctors suggested that he has cardiac complications and should be shifted to hospital.

A six-member 'larger special medical board' on Wednesday examined Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in prison after doctors suggested that he has cardiac complications and should be shifted to hospital. Sharif, 69, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail, was rushed to a hospital last week after he complained of heart-related complications. He was later discharged from the hospital and taken back to jail following the medical tests. According to an official of the Punjab government, the board members took two hours examining Sharif in Kot Lakhpat jail. "They conducted different tests of Sharif and thoroughly examined him", he said, adding the board will submit its report to the Punjab Home Department. The official said Sharif will be given medical treatment in the light of the board's recommendations. Punjab Information Minister Fayazul Hasan Chohan told PTI that the government has formed the larger special medical board in view of a previous medical board's report. "If the new board suggests hospitalisation of Mr Sharif the government will implement its recommendation," he said. Earlier, a medical board of Jinnah Hospital Lahore had declared that "Sharif is not completely well and he should be shifted to hospital from jail to get optimal treatment for his heart complications." Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz said the report of the Jinnah Hospital medical board suggests that her father's disease has progressed and is life-threatening. A special medical board of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology also examined Sharif earlier said he had vague symptoms of pain in both arms, particularly at night and numbness of toes. Sharif was tried in three corruption case launched in September 2017. He was first convicted and sentenced for 10 years in July last year in a case related to Avenfield properties in London. The Islamabad High Court granted him bail in the case in September. He was convicted in the Al-Azizia case but was acquitted in the Flagship investment case in December. The cases were launched on the orders of the Supreme Court which had ousted Sharif as premier in July 2017 in connection with a case related to the Panama Papers leaks.

Special medical board examines Nawaz Sharif in jail

Hosts Australia will take on Pakistan's men and India's women for the opening fixtures of the Twenty20 World Cups in 2020, organisers said Tuesday as the draw for the tournaments was announced.

The T20 World Cups are being held in the same year and in the same country for the first time, with the men's and women's finals to be played at one of the world's biggest stadiums, the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Ten women's teams will play in 23 matches from February 21 to March 8, with reigning champions Australia to clash with India in the opening game in Sydney.

The men's competition, from October 18 to November 15, will feature several qualifying matches before Australia kicks off the Super 12 group stages on October 24 against top-ranked Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australia, Pakistan, the West Indies, New Zealand and two qualifiers make up one side of the draw, with defending champions the Windies starting their title defence against the Black Caps on October 25.

India, England, South Africa and Afghanistan and two qualifiers make up the other side of the draw.

For the women's fixtures,&nbsp;four-time winners Australia are in Group A with New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka and one qualifier, while West Indies and 2009 champions England join South Africa, Pakistan and a second qualifying team.

The women's final will be played&nbsp;on March 8 to coincide with International Women's Day, and the men's final will be held on November 15.

Women's group stages (February 21 - March 3)

Group A: Australia, New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka, Qualifier 1

Group B: England, West Indies, South Africa, Pakistan, Qualifier 2

Semi-finals: March 5

Final: March 8

Men's qualifiers: October 18 - 23

Group stages (October 24 - November 8)

Group 1: Pakistan, Australia, West Indies, New Zealand, two qualifiers

Group 2: India, England, South Africa, Afghanistan, two qualifiers

Semi-finals: November 11 and 12

Final: November 15

Hosts Australia will take on Pakistan's men and India's women for the opening fixtures of the Twenty20 World Cups in 2020, organisers said Tuesday as the draw for the tournaments was announced.

Hosts Australia will take on Pakistan's men and India's women for the opening fixtures of the Twenty20 World Cups in 2020, organisers said Tuesday as the draw for the tournaments was announced. The T20 World Cups are being held in the same year and in the same country for the first time, with the men's and women's finals to be played at one of the world's biggest stadiums, the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Ten women's teams will play in 23 matches from February 21 to March 8, with reigning champions Australia to clash with India in the opening game in Sydney. The men's competition, from October 18 to November 15, will feature several qualifying matches before Australia kicks off the Super 12 group stages on October 24 against top-ranked Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Australia, Pakistan, the West Indies, New Zealand and two qualifiers make up one side of the draw, with defending champions the Windies starting their title defence against the Black Caps on October 25. India, England, South Africa and Afghanistan and two qualifiers make up the other side of the draw. For the women's fixtures, four-time winners Australia are in Group A with New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka and one qualifier, while West Indies and 2009 champions England join South Africa, Pakistan and a second qualifying team. The women's final will be played on March 8 to coincide with International Women's Day, and the men's final will be held on November 15. Women's group stages (February 21 - March 3) Group A: Australia, New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka, Qualifier 1 Group B: England, West Indies, South Africa, Pakistan, Qualifier 2 Semi-finals: March 5 Final: March 8 Men's qualifiers: October 18 - 23 Group stages (October 24 - November 8) Group 1: Pakistan, Australia, West Indies, New Zealand, two qualifiers Group 2: India, England, South Africa, Afghanistan, two qualifiers Semi-finals: November 11 and 12 Final: November 15

T20 World Cup: Pakistan, India to kick off tournament in Australia

Russia`s special envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday to discuss the Afghan peace process, in the wake of the US and Taliban agreeing on a framework deal to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan.

The diplomat is visiting the country following Russia’s wish to discuss the Afghan peace process.&nbsp;

He was met by senior officials of the Foreign Office and Russian Embassy, Pakistan Today reported.

He will hold talks with Pakistan’s top civil and military leadership at the Foreign OfficeThe visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin`s special envoy for Afghanistan comes in the wake of last week’s marathon talks between US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban in Qatar.

The United States and Taliban have agreed in principle to chalk out a framework for a deal that could eventually end the 17-year old conflict in Afghanistan.

Khalilzad, in an interview to the New York Times, said the United States and the Taliban have agreed in principle on a framework for a peace deal.

According to the peace deal, the Taliban would guarantee that Afghanistan will never be used as a base for terrorism in return for a full American withdrawal from the country.

Last month, Russian Ambassador in Pakistan Alexey Dedov had said that Pakistan’s commitment and efforts for regional peace and stability are highlighted by the country’s decision to open the Kartarpur Corridor with India.

The Kartarpur Corridor will provide visa-free access to Sikh pilgrims from India.

Russia`s special envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday to discuss the Afghan peace process, in the wake of the US and Taliban agreeing on a framework deal to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan.

Russia`s special envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday to discuss the Afghan peace process, in the wake of the US and Taliban agreeing on a framework deal to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan. The diplomat is visiting the country following Russia’s wish to discuss the Afghan peace process. He was met by senior officials of the Foreign Office and Russian Embassy, Pakistan Today reported. He will hold talks with Pakistan’s top civil and military leadership at the Foreign OfficeThe visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin`s special envoy for Afghanistan comes in the wake of last week’s marathon talks between US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban in Qatar. The United States and Taliban have agreed in principle to chalk out a framework for a deal that could eventually end the 17-year old conflict in Afghanistan. Khalilzad, in an interview to the New York Times, said the United States and the Taliban have agreed in principle on a framework for a peace deal. According to the peace deal, the Taliban would guarantee that Afghanistan will never be used as a base for terrorism in return for a full American withdrawal from the country. Last month, Russian Ambassador in Pakistan Alexey Dedov had said that Pakistan’s commitment and efforts for regional peace and stability are highlighted by the country’s decision to open the Kartarpur Corridor with India. The Kartarpur Corridor will provide visa-free access to Sikh pilgrims from India.

Putin's envoy in Pakistan to discuss Afghan peace process

Pakistan's Supreme Court is set to decide on Tuesday whether to allow an appeal against the acquittal of a Christian woman who was on death row for eight years on charges of blasphemy.

The Supreme Court's decision in October last year to overturn the conviction of Asia Bibi sparked nationwide protests and death threats from hardline groups.

Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa will head the three-member bench that will hear the review petition, filed by the complainant in the case Qari Muhammad Salaam.

Security has been tightened in the capital Islamabad where the court is located.

A security official told PTI that paramilitary Rangers will be deployed in addition to the regular police to deal with any unsavoury situation.&nbsp;

Bibi's lawyer, who fled to the Netherlands after receiving death threats for defending her, has returned home to represent her in the case.

Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, who is now in protective custody, was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement.

She challenged the verdict in October 2014 in the Lahore High Court which upheld the death sentence.&nbsp;

The apex court's decision to acquit her had sparked three-day-long mass protests led by the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

The protests were called off after the party reached an agreement with the government, the foremost condition of which was the placement of Bibi's name on the Exit Control List.&nbsp;

The government, however, had only agreed to "initiate the legal process" to place her name on the list, while also agreeing that it would not oppose any review petitions being filed against the court judgement.

After her release from Multan's women prison on November 7, Bibi was flown to Islamabad onboard a special aircraft. She was then taken to an undisclosed place amid tight security.&nbsp;

Authorities have remained tight-lipped about her movement and whereabouts for security reasons.

Qari filed the review petition in the case on November 1, 2018, at the Lahore registry of the apex court, urging the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision. 
&nbsp; 
In the petition, it has been argued that the Supreme Court's acquittal of Bibi did not meet the standards of jurisprudence as well as Islamic provisions and the "normal principle of justice with reference to application in blasphemy laws".&nbsp;

It has also challenged the Supreme Court's dismissal of the alleged "confession" that Bibi was forced to make by the people of her village and argued that the Supreme Court should have applied the Law of Evidence differently in this case.

Her case has been deeply divisive in Pakistan where there is strong support for the controversial blasphemy laws.

The blasphemy laws were promulgated by former military dictator Ziaul Haq in 1980s. A person convicted under these laws is given a death sentence.

Bibi was accused of committing blasphemy in 2009. She was convicted in 2010 by the trial court and her death sentence was maintained by the Lahore High Court in 2014.

Her case gained prominence when former governor of Pakistan's Punjab province Salman Taseer was killed in 2011 for supporting her and criticising the blasphemy laws.

A month after Taseer was killed, Pakistan's religious minorities minister Shahbaz Bhatti, a Christian who spoke out against the blasphemy law, was shot dead in Islamabad.

Pakistan's Supreme Court is set to decide on Tuesday whether to allow an appeal against the acquittal of a Christian woman who was on death row for eight years on charges of blasphemy.

Pakistan's Supreme Court is set to decide on Tuesday whether to allow an appeal against the acquittal of a Christian woman who was on death row for eight years on charges of blasphemy. The Supreme Court's decision in October last year to overturn the conviction of Asia Bibi sparked nationwide protests and death threats from hardline groups. Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa will head the three-member bench that will hear the review petition, filed by the complainant in the case Qari Muhammad Salaam. Security has been tightened in the capital Islamabad where the court is located. A security official told PTI that paramilitary Rangers will be deployed in addition to the regular police to deal with any unsavoury situation. Bibi's lawyer, who fled to the Netherlands after receiving death threats for defending her, has returned home to represent her in the case. Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, who is now in protective custody, was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. She challenged the verdict in October 2014 in the Lahore High Court which upheld the death sentence. The apex court's decision to acquit her had sparked three-day-long mass protests led by the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The protests were called off after the party reached an agreement with the government, the foremost condition of which was the placement of Bibi's name on the Exit Control List. The government, however, had only agreed to "initiate the legal process" to place her name on the list, while also agreeing that it would not oppose any review petitions being filed against the court judgement. After her release from Multan's women prison on November 7, Bibi was flown to Islamabad onboard a special aircraft. She was then taken to an undisclosed place amid tight security. Authorities have remained tight-lipped about her movement and whereabouts for security reasons. Qari filed the review petition in the case on November 1, 2018, at the Lahore registry of the apex court, urging the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision. In the petition, it has been argued that the Supreme Court's acquittal of Bibi did not meet the standards of jurisprudence as well as Islamic provisions and the "normal principle of justice with reference to application in blasphemy laws". It has also challenged the Supreme Court's dismissal of the alleged "confession" that Bibi was forced to make by the people of her village and argued that the Supreme Court should have applied the Law of Evidence differently in this case. Her case has been deeply divisive in Pakistan where there is strong support for the controversial blasphemy laws. The blasphemy laws were promulgated by former military dictator Ziaul Haq in 1980s. A person convicted under these laws is given a death sentence. Bibi was accused of committing blasphemy in 2009. She was convicted in 2010 by the trial court and her death sentence was maintained by the Lahore High Court in 2014. Her case gained prominence when former governor of Pakistan's Punjab province Salman Taseer was killed in 2011 for supporting her and criticising the blasphemy laws. A month after Taseer was killed, Pakistan's religious minorities minister Shahbaz Bhatti, a Christian who spoke out against the blasphemy law, was shot dead in Islamabad.

Asia Bibi blasphemy case: Pakistan Supreme Court set to hear review plea

Imam-ul-Haq hit a century -– and delivered a message to his critics -– but could not prevent South Africa from winning a rain-hit third one-day international at SuperSport Park on Friday.

Imam's 101 spurred Pakistan to an imposing 317 for six but South Africa won by 13 runs according to the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method after rain twice stopped play during their reply.

When the second interruption brought the match to an end, South Africa were 187 for two after 33 overs, ahead of the DLS par of 174, with Reeza Hendricks and captain Faf du Plessis unbeaten on 83 and 40 respectively.

Imam had strong words for what he said were his critics after making his fifth century in his 19th one-day international.

As he took the single which took him to his hundred he pointed to his mouth as his lips moved vigorously, then put a finger to his lips.&nbsp;

He was out two balls later, caught in the deep.

Asked about his gesture in an interview with SuperSport television at the end of the innings, he laughed and said: "Everybody knows I am the nephew of the chief selector (Inzamam-ul-Haq) and that was a message to all the Pakistan media and all the Pakistan people who criticise me."

The left-handed Imam shared partnerships of 132 for the second wicket with Babar Azam (69) and 84 for the third wicket with Mohammad Hafeez (52).

His innings enabled Imam to reach 1,000 runs in one-day internationals in 19 innings, second fewest in all one-day internationals only to his teammate, Fakhar Zaman, who achieved the feat in 18 innings.

Imad Wasim finished the innings with a flourish with an unbeaten 43 off 23 balls, putting on 52 off 31 balls with Shoaib Malik (31) for the fifth wicket.

South Africa had a poor day in the field, dropping five catches, including lives to all five of the Pakistan top scorers.

There were 12 wides in the innings as South Africa needed more than 20 minutes more than the allotted time to bowl their 50 overs.

Andile Phehlukwayo and Tabraiz Shamsi, the two most successful bowlers in South Africa's win in the second match in Durban on Tuesday, conceded a combined 146 runs in 19 overs for the wicket of Imam, caught off Shamsi.

Quinton de Kock and Hashim Amla gave South Africa a brisk start, putting on 53 for the first wicket. With a thunderstorm approaching, both were dismissed before the first rain delay at 88 for two after 16.5 overs.

Play resumed after a 55-minute break with the target remaining 318 in 50 overs.

Man of the match Hendricks and Du Plessis batted aggressively while the Pakistan bowlers and fielders struggled in damp conditions. More rain started to fall and eventually caused the match to be abandoned.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said he believed Pakistan had made a "good score".&nbsp;

However, he refused to use the rain as an excuse for what he said was a disappointing bowling performance.&nbsp;

"They (South Africa) played very well," he said.

Du Plessis said: "We were below par with the ball. We were a bit flat. But the nice thing is we have guys who are putting their hands up. We want to see how guys perform under pressure."

Imam-ul-Haq hit a century -– and delivered a message to his critics -– but could not prevent South Africa from winning a rain-hit third one-day international at SuperSport Park on Friday.

Imam-ul-Haq hit a century -– and delivered a message to his critics -– but could not prevent South Africa from winning a rain-hit third one-day international at SuperSport Park on Friday. Imam's 101 spurred Pakistan to an imposing 317 for six but South Africa won by 13 runs according to the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method after rain twice stopped play during their reply. When the second interruption brought the match to an end, South Africa were 187 for two after 33 overs, ahead of the DLS par of 174, with Reeza Hendricks and captain Faf du Plessis unbeaten on 83 and 40 respectively. Imam had strong words for what he said were his critics after making his fifth century in his 19th one-day international. As he took the single which took him to his hundred he pointed to his mouth as his lips moved vigorously, then put a finger to his lips. He was out two balls later, caught in the deep. Asked about his gesture in an interview with SuperSport television at the end of the innings, he laughed and said: "Everybody knows I am the nephew of the chief selector (Inzamam-ul-Haq) and that was a message to all the Pakistan media and all the Pakistan people who criticise me." The left-handed Imam shared partnerships of 132 for the second wicket with Babar Azam (69) and 84 for the third wicket with Mohammad Hafeez (52). His innings enabled Imam to reach 1,000 runs in one-day internationals in 19 innings, second fewest in all one-day internationals only to his teammate, Fakhar Zaman, who achieved the feat in 18 innings. Imad Wasim finished the innings with a flourish with an unbeaten 43 off 23 balls, putting on 52 off 31 balls with Shoaib Malik (31) for the fifth wicket. South Africa had a poor day in the field, dropping five catches, including lives to all five of the Pakistan top scorers. There were 12 wides in the innings as South Africa needed more than 20 minutes more than the allotted time to bowl their 50 overs. Andile Phehlukwayo and Tabraiz Shamsi, the two most successful bowlers in South Africa's win in the second match in Durban on Tuesday, conceded a combined 146 runs in 19 overs for the wicket of Imam, caught off Shamsi. Quinton de Kock and Hashim Amla gave South Africa a brisk start, putting on 53 for the first wicket. With a thunderstorm approaching, both were dismissed before the first rain delay at 88 for two after 16.5 overs. Play resumed after a 55-minute break with the target remaining 318 in 50 overs. Man of the match Hendricks and Du Plessis batted aggressively while the Pakistan bowlers and fielders struggled in damp conditions. More rain started to fall and eventually caused the match to be abandoned. Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said he believed Pakistan had made a "good score". However, he refused to use the rain as an excuse for what he said was a disappointing bowling performance. "They (South Africa) played very well," he said. Du Plessis said: "We were below par with the ball. We were a bit flat. But the nice thing is we have guys who are putting their hands up. We want to see how guys perform under pressure."

PAKvsSA, 3rd ODI: Imam hundred in vain as South Africa win rain-hit match

Republic Day 2019: India's tricolor unfurled across the world

Doctors have recommended that Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif should be shifted to hospital from jail as he could be best treated there for his heart complications.

A four-member (second) special medical board of the Allama Iqbal Medical College/Jinnah Hospital Lahore examined Sharif, 69, in jail recently and recommended that for his "optimal treatment" he should be shifted to hospital.

Sharif, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail, was rushed to a hospital Tuesday after he complained of heart-related complications. He was later discharged from the hospital and taken back to jail following the medical tests.

The board also recommended some changes to his medicines to control blood pressure and diabetes besides further tests.

"Given uncontrolled BP, stage 3 CKD with estimated GFR of 50 ml/ min, borderline raised troponin T level with significant history of ischemic heart disease and suboptimal care, Nawaz Sharif will benefit from hospitalisation so that optimal management and cardiac assessment can be initiated," the board, comprising AIMC principal Dr Arif Tajammul (chairman), Dr Tanveerul Islam, Dr Aamir Nadeem and Dr Shafiq Cheema, said in its report.

It said that Sharif with past medical history of hypertension, T2 diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease and CABGH, kidney stone disease complained about post nasal drip, bilateral arm, shoulder pain and some dyspnoea on exertion.

"In our assessment, the patient (Sharif) has stage 3 CKD problem, secondary to diabetic nephropathy and HTN, uncontrolled HTN and mild proteinuria, suboptimal T2 diabetes control, metabolic acidosis, post-nasal drip and nasal allergies, fatty liver, nephrolithiasis and benign renal cysts, rule out secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone disease, and underlying IHD with recent rise in Trop T level," the report said.

On Tuesday, Sharif was taken to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) for examination. Doctors there suggested that he required "aggressive medication" and "regular medical follow-ups" to avoid cardiac complications.

Before the AIMC board, a special PIC medical board had also examined Sharif last week and said he had vague symptoms of pain in both arms, particularly at night and numbness of toes.

Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz and his cardiologist Dr Adnan Khan have demanded the PTI government shift him to hospital for better medical care.&nbsp;

"Reports show his (Sharif) disease has progressed and is life-threatening. Official reports from PIC still awaited. Have been running pillar to post but to no avail," Maryam tweeted.&nbsp;

Doctors have recommended that Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif should be shifted to hospital from jail as he could be best treated there for his heart complications.

Doctors have recommended that Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif should be shifted to hospital from jail as he could be best treated there for his heart complications. A four-member (second) special medical board of the Allama Iqbal Medical College/Jinnah Hospital Lahore examined Sharif, 69, in jail recently and recommended that for his "optimal treatment" he should be shifted to hospital. Sharif, who is serving seven-year imprisonment in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail, was rushed to a hospital Tuesday after he complained of heart-related complications. He was later discharged from the hospital and taken back to jail following the medical tests. The board also recommended some changes to his medicines to control blood pressure and diabetes besides further tests. "Given uncontrolled BP, stage 3 CKD with estimated GFR of 50 ml/ min, borderline raised troponin T level with significant history of ischemic heart disease and suboptimal care, Nawaz Sharif will benefit from hospitalisation so that optimal management and cardiac assessment can be initiated," the board, comprising AIMC principal Dr Arif Tajammul (chairman), Dr Tanveerul Islam, Dr Aamir Nadeem and Dr Shafiq Cheema, said in its report. It said that Sharif with past medical history of hypertension, T2 diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease and CABGH, kidney stone disease complained about post nasal drip, bilateral arm, shoulder pain and some dyspnoea on exertion. "In our assessment, the patient (Sharif) has stage 3 CKD problem, secondary to diabetic nephropathy and HTN, uncontrolled HTN and mild proteinuria, suboptimal T2 diabetes control, metabolic acidosis, post-nasal drip and nasal allergies, fatty liver, nephrolithiasis and benign renal cysts, rule out secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone disease, and underlying IHD with recent rise in Trop T level," the report said. On Tuesday, Sharif was taken to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) for examination. Doctors there suggested that he required "aggressive medication" and "regular medical follow-ups" to avoid cardiac complications. Before the AIMC board, a special PIC medical board had also examined Sharif last week and said he had vague symptoms of pain in both arms, particularly at night and numbness of toes. Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz and his cardiologist Dr Adnan Khan have demanded the PTI government shift him to hospital for better medical care. "Reports show his (Sharif) disease has progressed and is life-threatening. Official reports from PIC still awaited. Have been running pillar to post but to no avail," Maryam tweeted.

Doctors suggest to shift Nawaz Sharif from jail to hospital

<a href="http://13.232.42.114/south-asia/pak-authorities-sack-chief-of-punjabs-anti-terror-deptt-in-fake-encounter-case-192154">Pakistani authorities </a>have removed the commander of the counter-terrorism police in the province of Punjab and will charge five police with murder over a shooting last week in which an innocent family was killed.

The incident on Saturday saw counter-terrorism officials open fire on a car they said was being used by an Islamic State leader in the province, Zeeshan Javed. He was killed along with three passengers - grocery store owner Mohammad Khalil, his wife and their 12-year-old daughter.

However, the official account of the incident was disputed by witnesses, including Khalil's three other children, who survived the attack and discredited by video footage widely circulated on social media.

The latest in a long series of episodes of alleged police brutality sparked protests in Lahore and drew condemnation from politicians including Prime Minister Imran Khan, who promised a clean up of the Punjab police.

Punjab Law Minister Raja Basharat said the provincial government had removed the head of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and three other officials who will all face disciplinary action.

"Initial report of the Joint Investigation Team for the Sahiwal encounter reveals that the CTD officials were responsible for killing Khalil and his family, who were innocent," Basharat said.

The five officers who shot at the car in Sahiwal town will be charged with murder and tried in an anti-terrorism court, he told reporters

Pakistani authorities have removed the commander of the counter-terrorism police in the province of Punjab and will charge five police with murder over a shooting last week in which an innocent family was killed.

Pakistani authorities have removed the commander of the counter-terrorism police in the province of Punjab and will charge five police with murder over a shooting last week in which an innocent family was killed. The incident on Saturday saw counter-terrorism officials open fire on a car they said was being used by an Islamic State leader in the province, Zeeshan Javed. He was killed along with three passengers - grocery store owner Mohammad Khalil, his wife and their 12-year-old daughter. However, the official account of the incident was disputed by witnesses, including Khalil's three other children, who survived the attack and discredited by video footage widely circulated on social media. The latest in a long series of episodes of alleged police brutality sparked protests in Lahore and drew condemnation from politicians including Prime Minister Imran Khan, who promised a clean up of the Punjab police. Punjab Law Minister Raja Basharat said the provincial government had removed the head of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and three other officials who will all face disciplinary action. "Initial report of the Joint Investigation Team for the Sahiwal encounter reveals that the CTD officials were responsible for killing Khalil and his family, who were innocent," Basharat said. The five officers who shot at the car in Sahiwal town will be charged with murder and tried in an anti-terrorism court, he told reporters

Pakistani police to face murder charges over killing of family

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uae-to-deposit-3-billion-in-pakistan-central-bank-185664&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj9tajHiIPgAhVIbn0KHY3VCLMQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3UsF9OAaAk0Q1gZDuno97Q">Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)</a> on Tuesday signed a $3 billion bailout package, as part of Abu Dhabi's support to boost the cash-strapped country's dwindling dollar reserves. 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uaes-us-62-billion-bail-out-package-for-pakistan-188460&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj9tajHiIPgAhVIbn0KHY3VCLMQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2OI50rM-3WQ1PPSaS3cSlz">The UAE </a>in December last year had announced to provide $3 billion financial assistance to Pakistan after Saudi Arabia made a similar commitment to help Islamabad successfully overcome international payment crisis and to avoid a stringent International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal.

Tuesday's agreement was signed between State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) chief Tariq Bajwa and Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) Director General Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi.

"UAE has formalized $3 billion deposit in the State Bank of Pakistan. DG ADFD &amp; the Governor SBP inked the agreement at #ADFD Headquarters in Abu Dhabi," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal tweeted.

He said the agreement will help Pakistan achieve financial stability and overcome economic challenges and noted ADFD's support over the years to stimulate Pakistan's economic growth and sustainable development.&nbsp;

Speaking on the occasion, Suwaidi said, "The directive to deposit USD 3 billion with the State Bank of Pakistan aligns with the UAE leadership's keenness to bolster Pakistan's economy, help its government achieve financial stability and overcome economic challenges, and drive comprehensive development in the country."

He added, "ADFD and the Government of Pakistan have enjoyed strong and long-standing ties dating back to 1981. The Fund's efforts have significantly contributed to improving socio-economic conditions in the country, boosting strategic growth and achieving the development priorities of the Pakistani government.

To date, ADFD has provided AED 1.5 billion to fund sustainable development projects in Pakistan spanning diverse sectors, including transport, water and agriculture, healthcare, and education, according to a press release.

The UAE had committed the financial assistance during Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Qatar last month to seek investment and provision of LNG on deferred payments.&nbsp;

Pakistan has a 15-year contract with Qatar for the supply of LNG.

The Saudi and the UAE governments have played a major role in helping Pakistan to meet around $12 billion shortfall in balance of payments in 2018-19 fiscal year, government officials said.

Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday signed a $3 billion bailout package, as part of Abu Dhabi's support to boost the cash-strapped country's dwindling dollar reserves.

Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday signed a $3 billion bailout package, as part of Abu Dhabi's support to boost the cash-strapped country's dwindling dollar reserves. The UAE in December last year had announced to provide $3 billion financial assistance to Pakistan after Saudi Arabia made a similar commitment to help Islamabad successfully overcome international payment crisis and to avoid a stringent International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal. Tuesday's agreement was signed between State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) chief Tariq Bajwa and Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) Director General Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi. "UAE has formalized $3 billion deposit in the State Bank of Pakistan. DG ADFD & the Governor SBP inked the agreement at #ADFD Headquarters in Abu Dhabi," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal tweeted. He said the agreement will help Pakistan achieve financial stability and overcome economic challenges and noted ADFD's support over the years to stimulate Pakistan's economic growth and sustainable development. Speaking on the occasion, Suwaidi said, "The directive to deposit USD 3 billion with the State Bank of Pakistan aligns with the UAE leadership's keenness to bolster Pakistan's economy, help its government achieve financial stability and overcome economic challenges, and drive comprehensive development in the country." He added, "ADFD and the Government of Pakistan have enjoyed strong and long-standing ties dating back to 1981. The Fund's efforts have significantly contributed to improving socio-economic conditions in the country, boosting strategic growth and achieving the development priorities of the Pakistani government. To date, ADFD has provided AED 1.5 billion to fund sustainable development projects in Pakistan spanning diverse sectors, including transport, water and agriculture, healthcare, and education, according to a press release. The UAE had committed the financial assistance during Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Qatar last month to seek investment and provision of LNG on deferred payments. Pakistan has a 15-year contract with Qatar for the supply of LNG. The Saudi and the UAE governments have played a major role in helping Pakistan to meet around $12 billion shortfall in balance of payments in 2018-19 fiscal year, government officials said.

Pakistan, UAE sign $3 billion bailout package

Pakistan's volume of exports would increase to around US $27 billion in 2019, a top financial advisor to Prime Minister Imran Khan has said.

The Imran Khan led government is facing increasing pressure for rising inflation, new taxes and an overall struggling economic picture since coming into power last year after the general elections.

Adviser to Khan for Commerce, Textile and Industry Production Abdul Razak Dawood said that the target of exports the government had set by the year end was around US $27 billion.

"This year we will achieve the target of setting a new record for highest exports from Pakistan and we are looking at around US $27 billion of exports,"&nbsp;Dawood said at an Edible oil conference here on Saturday.

The government is due to announce a mini-budget on January 23 in the National Assembly, which could bring more taxes and duties for the consumers and importers.

Stating that reducing imports was vital for economic growth, Dawood said the government is focusing on increasing the volume of exports in 2019.

Official data by State Bank of Pakistan shows that total exports have yielded US $11.5 billion in the first half of the current fiscal year which means another target of US $15.5 billion has to come in the remaining months of the fiscal year.

Dawood said that the government was formulating a strategy to increase exports this year and added that the figures for December 2018 were much better than December 2017.

"We have achieved success in acquiring a one billion dollar market in China for export of sugar and rice,"&nbsp;he said.

Dawood admitted that one of the biggest challenges facing the country was current account deficit and the government was taking steps to resolve this.

He said the people would hear good news soon as the country's economy was headed for improvement despite the difficulties.

Dawood said that as opposed to the past when the country was asking China for infrastructure projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), "we (current Government) are asking them for agricultural input".

"We are pursuing an export-led growth strategy," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan's volume of exports would increase to around US $27 billion in 2019, a top financial advisor to Prime Minister Imran Khan has said. The Imran Khan led government is facing increasing pressure for rising inflation, new taxes and an overall struggling economic picture since coming into power last year after the general elections.

Pakistan's volume of exports would increase to around US $27 billion in 2019, a top financial advisor to Prime Minister Imran Khan has said. The Imran Khan led government is facing increasing pressure for rising inflation, new taxes and an overall struggling economic picture since coming into power last year after the general elections. Adviser to Khan for Commerce, Textile and Industry Production Abdul Razak Dawood said that the target of exports the government had set by the year end was around US $27 billion. "This year we will achieve the target of setting a new record for highest exports from Pakistan and we are looking at around US $27 billion of exports," Dawood said at an Edible oil conference here on Saturday. The government is due to announce a mini-budget on January 23 in the National Assembly, which could bring more taxes and duties for the consumers and importers. Stating that reducing imports was vital for economic growth, Dawood said the government is focusing on increasing the volume of exports in 2019. Official data by State Bank of Pakistan shows that total exports have yielded US $11.5 billion in the first half of the current fiscal year which means another target of US $15.5 billion has to come in the remaining months of the fiscal year. Dawood said that the government was formulating a strategy to increase exports this year and added that the figures for December 2018 were much better than December 2017. "We have achieved success in acquiring a one billion dollar market in China for export of sugar and rice," he said. Dawood admitted that one of the biggest challenges facing the country was current account deficit and the government was taking steps to resolve this. He said the people would hear good news soon as the country's economy was headed for improvement despite the difficulties. Dawood said that as opposed to the past when the country was asking China for infrastructure projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), "we (current Government) are asking them for agricultural input". "We are pursuing an export-led growth strategy," he said.

Pakistan's exports to hit US $27 billion in 2019: Official

India seeks probe in harassment of Indian diplomats in Pakistan

A 'peace calender' was released in Delhi on Sunday to send out a message of peace amid strain in bilateral ties between India and Pakistan.

Many people, including Army veterans, youths and school students, gathered in the national capital to release the 'peace calendar', an initiative of the 'Aaghaz-e-Dosti' organisation that works to foster people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan through its voluntary network of people.

The calendar features paintings of school students from India and Pakistan on the theme of peace. Six paintings from each country were selected for being published in the form of calendar.

Sudheendra Kulkarni, a writer and former aide of the late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, told the gathering that the young generation is the hope for both countries.

He recalled how the initiatives such as start of bus, train and trade services across borders brought happiness to people and hence more such steps should be taken.

Major General (retired) T K Kaul, the executive president of India Pakistan Soldiers Initiative for Peace, talked about how there are veterans in both countries who advocate peace.&nbsp;

A 'peace calender' was released in Delhi on Sunday to send out a message of peace amid strain in bilateral ties between India and Pakistan. Many people, including Army veterans, youths and school students, gathered in the national capital to release the 'peace calendar', an initiative of the 'Aaghaz-e-Dosti' organisation that works to foster people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan through its voluntary network of people.

A 'peace calender' was released in Delhi on Sunday to send out a message of peace amid strain in bilateral ties between India and Pakistan. Many people, including Army veterans, youths and school students, gathered in the national capital to release the 'peace calendar', an initiative of the 'Aaghaz-e-Dosti' organisation that works to foster people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan through its voluntary network of people. The calendar features paintings of school students from India and Pakistan on the theme of peace. Six paintings from each country were selected for being published in the form of calendar. Sudheendra Kulkarni, a writer and former aide of the late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, told the gathering that the young generation is the hope for both countries. He recalled how the initiatives such as start of bus, train and trade services across borders brought happiness to people and hence more such steps should be taken. Major General (retired) T K Kaul, the executive president of India Pakistan Soldiers Initiative for Peace, talked about how there are veterans in both countries who advocate peace.

Indo-Pak peace calendar released

Pakistan has dug up another issue in the ongoing saga of harassment of Indian mission and diplomats in Islamabad.&nbsp;

This time it is the Capital development authority of Pakistan that had demanded "completion certificate" from the Indian high commission in Islamabad on the new compound.&nbsp;

The authority has said the Indian mission has constructed, occupied and is functioning from the new building without a completion certificate.&nbsp;

Capital Development Authority is the nodal body for providing municipal services in Islamabad Capital Territory.&nbsp;

The Pakistani foreign ministry has raised the matter with India via a note verbale. India has taken up this matter with Pakistani high commission officials in Delhi.

The development comes, even as harassment of Indian diplomats continues. There were 4 major incidents of harassment of India diplomats in December of 2018.&nbsp;

On December 4 2018, the Indian high commissioner and deputy high commissioner were aggressively kept watched by Pakistani agencies during an event in Islamabad.&nbsp;

On December 10 someone tried to forcibly barge into the house of an Indian diplomat, on December 21 Indian High Commission team was questioned for 4 hours on the road in Peshawar and on December 25 electricity was cut for 4 hours at the house of an Indian diplomat.&nbsp;

Other than this there was a hacking attempt of social media accounts of Indian diplomats. India has sent note verbale to Pakistani foreign ministry and raised the matter many times with them.&nbsp;

In the last 2 weeks, Indian High commissioner Ajay Bisaria has met with Pakistan's foreign secretary Tehmina Janjua and Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood has met Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale to discuss a range of issues from Karatarpur corridor to harassment of diplomats.

Pakistan has dug up another issue in the ongoing saga of harassment of Indian mission and diplomats in Islamabad. This time it is the Capital development authority of Pakistan that had demanded "completion certificate" from the Indian high commission in Islamabad on the new compound.

Pakistan has dug up another issue in the ongoing saga of harassment of Indian mission and diplomats in Islamabad. This time it is the Capital development authority of Pakistan that had demanded "completion certificate" from the Indian high commission in Islamabad on the new compound. The authority has said the Indian mission has constructed, occupied and is functioning from the new building without a completion certificate. Capital Development Authority is the nodal body for providing municipal services in Islamabad Capital Territory. The Pakistani foreign ministry has raised the matter with India via a note verbale. India has taken up this matter with Pakistani high commission officials in Delhi. The development comes, even as harassment of Indian diplomats continues. There were 4 major incidents of harassment of India diplomats in December of 2018. On December 4 2018, the Indian high commissioner and deputy high commissioner were aggressively kept watched by Pakistani agencies during an event in Islamabad. On December 10 someone tried to forcibly barge into the house of an Indian diplomat, on December 21 Indian High Commission team was questioned for 4 hours on the road in Peshawar and on December 25 electricity was cut for 4 hours at the house of an Indian diplomat. Other than this there was a hacking attempt of social media accounts of Indian diplomats. India has sent note verbale to Pakistani foreign ministry and raised the matter many times with them. In the last 2 weeks, Indian High commissioner Ajay Bisaria has met with Pakistan's foreign secretary Tehmina Janjua and Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood has met Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale to discuss a range of issues from Karatarpur corridor to harassment of diplomats.

Pak says Indian High Commission functioning without completion certificate

A special medical board that examined Pakistan's former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sc-dismisses-appeal-against-suspension-of-sharifs-sentences-in-graft-case-190305">prime minister Nawaz Sharif</a> in Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore has said that "he is not completely well" and more tests are required before suggesting treatment for him.

The medical board comprising Shahid Hameed, Sajjad Ahmed and Hamid Khalil of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, had thoroughly examined Sharif and had his necessary tests done on Wednesday at the jail, where he is serving a seven years jail sentence in a corruption case.&nbsp;

Sharif, 69, has been serving a seven-year jail term in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills graft case.

A medical report released on Friday said that Sharif had "vague symptoms" of pain in both of his arms.&nbsp;

"Vague symptoms of pain in Sharif's both arms particularly at night and numbness of toes. He is on dual antiplatelets, beta blocker, amlodipine, ARB'S and stains with anti-diabetic treatment," the medical report said.

Earlier, the ex-premier's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharifs-health-deteriorates-daughter-claims-jail-authorities-not-letting-cardiologists-examine-him-189756">daughter Maryam Nawaz had claimed that Sharif's health has deteriorated</a> and alleged that authorities were not letting his cardiologists examine him in the jail.

A jail spokesman, however, said jail doctors examined Sharif thoroughly and his health is fine. "Nawaz Sharif is in good health," he said.

Sharif underwent Coronary Angioplasty twice in 2001 and 2017 and also had open heart surgery twice in 2011 and 2016, the special medical board said in its report.&nbsp;

The board examined the patient with fresh ECG and limited available laboratory investigations.

The special board has recommended more investigations (tests) of him that include TROP-I, Echocardiography and Stress Thallium Scan (if TROP-I test is Negative).

"After evaluating these test reports and availability of previous cardiac medical record further management plan will be proceeded," the board said.&nbsp;

Sharif has also been refused a prisoner who could serve as his orderly, media reported.

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on December 24 sentenced the ousted premier to seven years in jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills graft case but acquitted him in the Flagship Investments case, concluding a series of three court cases against the Sharif family in the high-profile Panama Papers case.

The Al-Azizia Steel Mill case was about setting up steel mills in Saudi Arabia allegedly with corruption money.

Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship investment case and Al-Azizia steel mills case - were launched against the Sharif family by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017, following a judgment by the Supreme Court that disqualified Sharif in the Panama Papers case in July last year.

The medical board had thoroughly examined Sharif and had his necessary tests done on Wednesday at the jail, where he is serving a seven years jail sentence in a corruption case.

A special medical board that examined Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore has said that "he is not completely well" and more tests are required before suggesting treatment for him. The medical board comprising Shahid Hameed, Sajjad Ahmed and Hamid Khalil of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, had thoroughly examined Sharif and had his necessary tests done on Wednesday at the jail, where he is serving a seven years jail sentence in a corruption case. Sharif, 69, has been serving a seven-year jail term in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills graft case. A medical report released on Friday said that Sharif had "vague symptoms" of pain in both of his arms. "Vague symptoms of pain in Sharif's both arms particularly at night and numbness of toes. He is on dual antiplatelets, beta blocker, amlodipine, ARB'S and stains with anti-diabetic treatment," the medical report said. Earlier, the ex-premier's daughter Maryam Nawaz had claimed that Sharif's health has deteriorated and alleged that authorities were not letting his cardiologists examine him in the jail. A jail spokesman, however, said jail doctors examined Sharif thoroughly and his health is fine. "Nawaz Sharif is in good health," he said. Sharif underwent Coronary Angioplasty twice in 2001 and 2017 and also had open heart surgery twice in 2011 and 2016, the special medical board said in its report. The board examined the patient with fresh ECG and limited available laboratory investigations. The special board has recommended more investigations (tests) of him that include TROP-I, Echocardiography and Stress Thallium Scan (if TROP-I test is Negative). "After evaluating these test reports and availability of previous cardiac medical record further management plan will be proceeded," the board said. Sharif has also been refused a prisoner who could serve as his orderly, media reported. An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on December 24 sentenced the ousted premier to seven years in jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills graft case but acquitted him in the Flagship Investments case, concluding a series of three court cases against the Sharif family in the high-profile Panama Papers case. The Al-Azizia Steel Mill case was about setting up steel mills in Saudi Arabia allegedly with corruption money. Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship investment case and Al-Azizia steel mills case - were launched against the Sharif family by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017, following a judgment by the Supreme Court that disqualified Sharif in the Panama Papers case in July last year.

Nawaz Sharif not completely well, says special medical board

Bangladesh has scrapped a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&amp;-economy/bangladesh-sees-stalled-floating-lng-terminal-starting-operations-in-days-156601">liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply</a> deal with Swiss energy trader AOT Energy, which had been close to being finalised, an official said on Friday.

Bangladesh and AOT agreed on a deal in February 2018 for the supply of 1.25 million tonnes per year (mtpa) for 15 years but it was not signed. Since then, the country has installed its first import terminal and received its first cargoes, while prices seesawed.

"The deal with AOT will not be signed," said Mohammad Quamruzzaman, managing director of the Rupantarita Prakritik Gas Co., which is in charge of LNG supplies to the country. "The decision has already been conveyed to them."

He did not give a reason for scrapping the agreement. AOT, controlled by the investment vehicle of the late Belgian Baron Albert Frere, did not respond to requests for comments.

A senior official in state-owned energy company Petrobangla said AOT could still supply Bangladesh on the spot market.

"We didn't want to go ahead with them for a long-term deal ... But they have been shortlisted for spot LNG purchases," the official said.

Bangladesh has a 2.5 mtpa deal with Qatar which supplies the first terminal, the Moheshkhali floating storage regasification unit (FSRU), and a 1 mtpa deal with Oman will kick in once a second FSRU starts operations in March this year.

The nation of 160 million is expected to become a major LNG importer in Asia, alongside Pakistan and India, as domestic gas supplies fall.

But it has tempered its initial enthusiasm. Officials at one point were considering half a dozen import projects but have since pared the list down.

A government source said Bangladesh had taken on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-set-to-sign-15-year-lng-import-deal-with-qatar-20175">too many LNG projects</a> without proper planning.

Bangladesh has imported 0.7 million tonnes, or 12 cargoes, since the first FSRU began regular operations in September, according to Refinitiv Eikon data. All of them came from Qatar.

When the second FSRU beings operations, Bangladesh will have an import capacity of 7.5 mtpa although it is expected to import 2.9 mtpa this year and 4.6 mtpa next, according to Wood Mackenzie estimates.

Bangladesh pays Qatar 12.64 per cent of the three-month average of Brent crude oil plus $0.5 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) and Oman 11.9 per cent of the three-month Brent crude average plus $0.4 per mmBtu.

Bangladesh and AOT agreed on a deal in February 2018 for the supply of 1.25 million tonnes per year (mtpa ) for 15 years but it was not signed.

Bangladesh has scrapped a liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply deal with Swiss energy trader AOT Energy, which had been close to being finalised, an official said on Friday. Bangladesh and AOT agreed on a deal in February 2018 for the supply of 1.25 million tonnes per year (mtpa) for 15 years but it was not signed. Since then, the country has installed its first import terminal and received its first cargoes, while prices seesawed. "The deal with AOT will not be signed," said Mohammad Quamruzzaman, managing director of the Rupantarita Prakritik Gas Co., which is in charge of LNG supplies to the country. "The decision has already been conveyed to them." He did not give a reason for scrapping the agreement. AOT, controlled by the investment vehicle of the late Belgian Baron Albert Frere, did not respond to requests for comments. A senior official in state-owned energy company Petrobangla said AOT could still supply Bangladesh on the spot market. "We didn't want to go ahead with them for a long-term deal ... But they have been shortlisted for spot LNG purchases," the official said. Bangladesh has a 2.5 mtpa deal with Qatar which supplies the first terminal, the Moheshkhali floating storage regasification unit (FSRU), and a 1 mtpa deal with Oman will kick in once a second FSRU starts operations in March this year. The nation of 160 million is expected to become a major LNG importer in Asia, alongside Pakistan and India, as domestic gas supplies fall. But it has tempered its initial enthusiasm. Officials at one point were considering half a dozen import projects but have since pared the list down. A government source said Bangladesh had taken on too many LNG projects without proper planning. Bangladesh has imported 0.7 million tonnes, or 12 cargoes, since the first FSRU began regular operations in September, according to Refinitiv Eikon data. All of them came from Qatar. When the second FSRU beings operations, Bangladesh will have an import capacity of 7.5 mtpa although it is expected to import 2.9 mtpa this year and 4.6 mtpa next, according to Wood Mackenzie estimates. Bangladesh pays Qatar 12.64 per cent of the three-month average of Brent crude oil plus $0.5 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) and Oman 11.9 per cent of the three-month Brent crude average plus $0.4 per mmBtu.

Bangladesh scraps 15-year Liquefied Natural Gas supply deal with Swiss trader

The Afghan Taliban rejected reports in the Pakistani media that they were prepared to resume meetings with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-on-afghanistan-arrives-in-pakistan-for-talks-191047">US special envoy</a> Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad and repeated their refusal to deal directly with the Afghan government.

Pakistani newspapers and television stations reported that a meeting in Islamabad was in prospect following discussions between Khalilzad and Pakistani officials including Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday.&nbsp;

Senior Taliban leaders said that regional powers including Pakistan had approached them and wanted them to meet the US delegation in Islamabad and also include the Afghan government in the peace process but that the approaches had been rejected.

"We wanted to make it clear that we will not hold any meeting with Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad," Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid in a statement. 
Talks between the two sides have stalled after the Taliban accused Khalilzad of straying from the agreed agenda and there is no clarity on when they may resume.&nbsp;

"We have made it clear again and again that we would never hold any meeting with the Afghan government as we know that they are not capable of addressing our demands," said one senior Taliban leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The United States says any settlement in Afghanistan must be between the internationally recognised Afghan government and the Taliban, who have so far refused to talk to an administration they describe as an illegitimate puppet regime.

The Taliban leader said peace talks with the US delegation could resume if they were assured that only three issues would be discussed - a US withdrawal from Afghanistan, an exchange of prisoners and lifting a ban on the movement of Taliban leaders.

Khalilzad arrived in Islamabad on Thursday and met Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as the Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and other officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The two sides reviewed developments post Abu Dhabi, in order to take the Afghan peace process forward," a foreign office statement said. An Afghan Taliban delegation had a round of talks last month with US officials in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The statement didn`t give any further details on the talks, but several local TV channels reported that Pakistan agreed to host the next round of talks between the Afghan Taliban and the United States in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W. Bush`s ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration four months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace.

Washington has long been pushing Islamabad to lean on Taliban leaders, who it says are based in Pakistan, to bring them to the negotiating table.

It often accuses the south Asian nation of covertly sheltering Taliban leaders, an accusation Islamabad vehemently denies.

The United States, which had more than 100,000 troops in Afghanistan at its peak during the first term of former President Barack Obama, withdrew most of them in 2014 but still keeps around 14,000 there.

The Afghan Taliban rejected reports in the Pakistani media that they were prepared to resume meetings with US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad and repeated their refusal to deal directly with the Afghan government.

The Afghan Taliban rejected reports in the Pakistani media that they were prepared to resume meetings with US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad and repeated their refusal to deal directly with the Afghan government. Pakistani newspapers and television stations reported that a meeting in Islamabad was in prospect following discussions between Khalilzad and Pakistani officials including Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday. Senior Taliban leaders said that regional powers including Pakistan had approached them and wanted them to meet the US delegation in Islamabad and also include the Afghan government in the peace process but that the approaches had been rejected. "We wanted to make it clear that we will not hold any meeting with Zalmay Khalilzad in Islamabad," Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid in a statement. Talks between the two sides have stalled after the Taliban accused Khalilzad of straying from the agreed agenda and there is no clarity on when they may resume. "We have made it clear again and again that we would never hold any meeting with the Afghan government as we know that they are not capable of addressing our demands," said one senior Taliban leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The United States says any settlement in Afghanistan must be between the internationally recognised Afghan government and the Taliban, who have so far refused to talk to an administration they describe as an illegitimate puppet regime. The Taliban leader said peace talks with the US delegation could resume if they were assured that only three issues would be discussed - a US withdrawal from Afghanistan, an exchange of prisoners and lifting a ban on the movement of Taliban leaders. Khalilzad arrived in Islamabad on Thursday and met Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as the Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and other officials. "The two sides reviewed developments post Abu Dhabi, in order to take the Afghan peace process forward," a foreign office statement said. An Afghan Taliban delegation had a round of talks last month with US officials in Abu Dhabi. The statement didn`t give any further details on the talks, but several local TV channels reported that Pakistan agreed to host the next round of talks between the Afghan Taliban and the United States in Islamabad. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W. Bush`s ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration four months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace. Washington has long been pushing Islamabad to lean on Taliban leaders, who it says are based in Pakistan, to bring them to the negotiating table. It often accuses the south Asian nation of covertly sheltering Taliban leaders, an accusation Islamabad vehemently denies. The United States, which had more than 100,000 troops in Afghanistan at its peak during the first term of former President Barack Obama, withdrew most of them in 2014 but still keeps around 14,000 there.

Won't hold any meeting with American envoy in Islamabad: Afghan Taliban reject peace talks with US

Peshawar High Court on Thursday stopped the Archaeology Department of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province from vacating Panj Tirath, a Hindu religious site which has been declared as the national heritage.

Deputy Director Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB) Peshawar Humayun Khan said that the provincial archaeology department had given notice for vacating Panj Tirath. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan's Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB), which manages the shrines of Hindus and Sikhs, had challenged the notice in the court. 
Panj Tirath is a property of the EPTB, he said.

Peshawar High Court on Thursday stopped the Archaeology Department of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province from vacating Panj Tirath, a Hindu religious site which has been declared as the national heritage.

Peshawar High Court on Thursday stopped the Archaeology Department of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province from vacating Panj Tirath, a Hindu religious site which has been declared as the national heritage. Deputy Director Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB) Peshawar Humayun Khan said that the provincial archaeology department had given notice for vacating Panj Tirath. Pakistan's Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB), which manages the shrines of Hindus and Sikhs, had challenged the notice in the court. Panj Tirath is a property of the EPTB, he said.

Pakistan court stops provincial department from vacating Panj Tirath

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