China has agreed to roll over a loan of USD 500 million that it has placed with the State Bank of Pakistan as Islamabad's official foreign currency reserves remain in a precarious position despite taking USD 44 billion in loans in the past five years.

The Express Tribune reported that the People's Bank of China, through China's State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), had deposited USD 500 million with the SBP in June 2012.

The loan is going to mature in the first week of June this year, but China has agreed to roll it over for one more year, said sources in the ministry of finance.

Pakistan cannot use the USD 500 million Chinese deposit and its only purpose is to shore up foreign currency reserves.

According to sources, the loan has been rescheduled at the same old terms. Since the money could not be utilised, the interest rate was only 1 per cent, they said.

During the week ended May 18, the SBP's gross reserves dropped USD 479 million to only USD 10.32 billion due to payments on account of external debt servicing. The reserves are barely enough for two months of imports and are below the International Monetary Fund's adequacy levels.

The USD 10.32-billion gross foreign currency reserves include loans of USD 6.13 billion the central bank has acquired from domestic banks to inflate the reserves.

Owing to the government's wrong policies, the external debt and liabilities swelled over 42 per cent to USD 92 billion by April this year, according to central bank data.

The current government has got foreign loans of USD 44.2 billion to repay maturing debt, provide cushion to foreign currency reserves and finance the import bill.

Sources said in addition to the USD 500-million loan rollover, China was expected to increase the SAFE deposit limit by USD 500 million to USD 1 billion. Apart from this, another USD 1 billion in Chinese foreign commercial loan is being negotiated.

Pakistan has already taken USD 2.2 billion in commercial loans from China in the current fiscal year. It is also holding negotiations to take USD 200-350 million in commercial loans from Gulf banks.

In January last year, Pakistan had returned USD 500 million to SAFE that had reached maturity. The loan in the form of deposits had been taken in January, 2009 due to weak current account situation at the time.

This week, Pakistan and China also extended the currency swap arrangement between the SBP and People's Bank of China for three years in respective local currencies. The swap limit has been increased from 10 billion to 20 billion Chinese yuan and from Rs 165 billion to Rs 351 billion.

Owing to the fast deteriorating fiscal and external accounts, the SBP on Friday increased key discount rate by 50 basis points to 6.5 per cent after putting off the increase twice earlier.

The balance of payments position, despite increase in exports and some deceleration in imports, has deteriorated due to a sharp increase in international oil prices and limited financial inflows, according to the central bank.

In its statement, the SBP added that twin deficits, the budget deficit and the current account deficit&nbsp;were depicting elevated aggregate demand and were adversely affecting near-term macroeconomic stability.

However, it seems that the federal government is deliberately destroying the economic fundamentals. It posted a record budget deficit of Rs 4.81 trillion for July-April of the current fiscal year, which is equal to 4.3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

In spite of that, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Friday approved an honorarium equal to three basic salaries for federal government employees. This came despite opposition from the finance ministry that estimated its impact in the range of Rs 100 billion to Rs 125 billion.

The honorarium has been announced for all federal government employees and attached departments, including the armed forces.

A senior official of the finance ministry said the ministry would try to limit the damage and was not in a mood to fully honour the premier's decision. If the decision is implemented, the budget deficit for the current fiscal year would jump close to 7 per cent of GDP. This excludes the circular debt that has been parked outside budget books.

When the government came to power in June 2013, the budget deficit was 6 per cent of GDP excluding circular debt payments.&nbsp;

The loan is going to mature in the first week of June this year, but China has agreed to roll it over for one more year, said sources in the ministry of finance

China has agreed to roll over a loan of USD 500 million that it has placed with the State Bank of Pakistan as Islamabad's official foreign currency reserves remain in a precarious position despite taking USD 44 billion in loans in the past five years. The Express Tribune reported that the People's Bank of China, through China's State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), had deposited USD 500 million with the SBP in June 2012. The loan is going to mature in the first week of June this year, but China has agreed to roll it over for one more year, said sources in the ministry of finance. Pakistan cannot use the USD 500 million Chinese deposit and its only purpose is to shore up foreign currency reserves. According to sources, the loan has been rescheduled at the same old terms. Since the money could not be utilised, the interest rate was only 1 per cent, they said. During the week ended May 18, the SBP's gross reserves dropped USD 479 million to only USD 10.32 billion due to payments on account of external debt servicing. The reserves are barely enough for two months of imports and are below the International Monetary Fund's adequacy levels. The USD 10.32-billion gross foreign currency reserves include loans of USD 6.13 billion the central bank has acquired from domestic banks to inflate the reserves. Owing to the government's wrong policies, the external debt and liabilities swelled over 42 per cent to USD 92 billion by April this year, according to central bank data. The current government has got foreign loans of USD 44.2 billion to repay maturing debt, provide cushion to foreign currency reserves and finance the import bill. Sources said in addition to the USD 500-million loan rollover, China was expected to increase the SAFE deposit limit by USD 500 million to USD 1 billion. Apart from this, another USD 1 billion in Chinese foreign commercial loan is being negotiated. Pakistan has already taken USD 2.2 billion in commercial loans from China in the current fiscal year. It is also holding negotiations to take USD 200-350 million in commercial loans from Gulf banks. In January last year, Pakistan had returned USD 500 million to SAFE that had reached maturity. The loan in the form of deposits had been taken in January, 2009 due to weak current account situation at the time. This week, Pakistan and China also extended the currency swap arrangement between the SBP and People's Bank of China for three years in respective local currencies. The swap limit has been increased from 10 billion to 20 billion Chinese yuan and from Rs 165 billion to Rs 351 billion. Owing to the fast deteriorating fiscal and external accounts, the SBP on Friday increased key discount rate by 50 basis points to 6.5 per cent after putting off the increase twice earlier. The balance of payments position, despite increase in exports and some deceleration in imports, has deteriorated due to a sharp increase in international oil prices and limited financial inflows, according to the central bank. In its statement, the SBP added that twin deficits, the budget deficit and the current account deficit were depicting elevated aggregate demand and were adversely affecting near-term macroeconomic stability. However, it seems that the federal government is deliberately destroying the economic fundamentals. It posted a record budget deficit of Rs 4.81 trillion for July-April of the current fiscal year, which is equal to 4.3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). In spite of that, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Friday approved an honorarium equal to three basic salaries for federal government employees. This came despite opposition from the finance ministry that estimated its impact in the range of Rs 100 billion to Rs 125 billion. The honorarium has been announced for all federal government employees and attached departments, including the armed forces. A senior official of the finance ministry said the ministry would try to limit the damage and was not in a mood to fully honour the premier's decision. If the decision is implemented, the budget deficit for the current fiscal year would jump close to 7 per cent of GDP. This excludes the circular debt that has been parked outside budget books. When the government came to power in June 2013, the budget deficit was 6 per cent of GDP excluding circular debt payments.

China to roll over $500 million loan to Pakistan central bank

Pakistan Prime Minister Shadid Abbasi on Saturday inaugurated the first section of the 392-km Multan-Sukkur Motorway, which is the largest transportation infrastructure project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).&nbsp;

The superhighway is located in the country's eastern Punjab province, Multan. The six-lane superhighway will connect Karachi with Peshawar through the provinces of Punjab and Sindh.

The motorway, called M-5, will reduce the travel distance between Multan and Sukkur from 463 km to 392 km.&nbsp;

The project will be completed by August 2019 and will have 107 underpasses, 188 subways, 100 bridges.

Abbasi has branded the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a "game changer" for the country.

Calling the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and CPEC "a transformative project representing economic cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing," Abbasi said that the BRI is "a truly global public good", which has been planned to benefit the people living in geographically distinct areas, the People's Daily reported.&nbsp;

Calling the CPEC project a "game changer" for Pakistan, Abbasi stressed that the initial phase of the economic corridor was progressing well and so, a network of roads and the infrastructure at Gwadar Port in Balochistan were being developed on a priority basis.

The Pakistan Prime Minister further said that the next stage of developing the CPEC project was to set up Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which would lead to the strengthening of the country's economy and creating employment opportunities.

Pakistan Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal also said that Pakistan would be the 'industrial hub' of the entire South Asian region soon, after the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project is built.

The superhighway is located in the country's eastern Punjab province, Multan. The six-lane superhighway will connect Karachi with Peshawar through the provinces of Punjab and Sindh

Pakistan Prime Minister Shadid Abbasi on Saturday inaugurated the first section of the 392-km Multan-Sukkur Motorway, which is the largest transportation infrastructure project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The superhighway is located in the country's eastern Punjab province, Multan. The six-lane superhighway will connect Karachi with Peshawar through the provinces of Punjab and Sindh. The motorway, called M-5, will reduce the travel distance between Multan and Sukkur from 463 km to 392 km. The project will be completed by August 2019 and will have 107 underpasses, 188 subways, 100 bridges. Abbasi has branded the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a "game changer" for the country. Calling the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and CPEC "a transformative project representing economic cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing," Abbasi said that the BRI is "a truly global public good", which has been planned to benefit the people living in geographically distinct areas, the People's Daily reported. Calling the CPEC project a "game changer" for Pakistan, Abbasi stressed that the initial phase of the economic corridor was progressing well and so, a network of roads and the infrastructure at Gwadar Port in Balochistan were being developed on a priority basis. The Pakistan Prime Minister further said that the next stage of developing the CPEC project was to set up Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which would lead to the strengthening of the country's economy and creating employment opportunities. Pakistan Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal also said that Pakistan would be the 'industrial hub' of the entire South Asian region soon, after the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project is built.

Pakistan PM Shahid Abbasi inaugurates 1st section of CPEC's superhighway

Days after the Pakistan army disrupted the distribution of the Dawn newspaper in parts of the country post Nawaz Sharif's interview, the army&nbsp;has now summoned a former head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) on May 28.

The Pakistan army has summoned former head of ISI Lieutenant General (retired) Asad Durrani to question him for his views on the book " Spy Chronicles:RAW, ISI&nbsp;and all the illusion of Peace", which he has co-authored with former Indian intelligence officer AS Dulat.

In the book, the former ISI General has claimed that the then Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani was well aware of the US Navy Seals operation against Osama Bin Ladin. He also said that Pakistan and US had struck a special deal in this regard.&nbsp;

After the release of the book, the ex ISI official was asked to justify his position for violating the military code of conduct that restricts any serving or retired military official from making remarks against the country's national security.

The Pakistan army has summoned former head of ISI Lieutenant General (retired) Asad Durrani to question him for his views on the book 'Spy Chronicles:RAW, ISI and all the illusion of Peace', which he has co-authored with former Indian intelligence officer AS Dulat

Days after the Pakistan army disrupted the distribution of the Dawn newspaper in parts of the country post Nawaz Sharif's interview, the army has now summoned a former head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) on May 28. The Pakistan army has summoned former head of ISI Lieutenant General (retired) Asad Durrani to question him for his views on the book " Spy Chronicles:RAW, ISI and all the illusion of Peace", which he has co-authored with former Indian intelligence officer AS Dulat. In the book, the former ISI General has claimed that the then Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani was well aware of the US Navy Seals operation against Osama Bin Ladin. He also said that Pakistan and US had struck a special deal in this regard. After the release of the book, the ex ISI official was asked to justify his position for violating the military code of conduct that restricts any serving or retired military official from making remarks against the country's national security.

Pakistan army summons former ISI chief over 'Spy Chronicles' book

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Saturday emphasized that the establishment of new provinces could only be done through national consensus.

Dialogue should be held over many issues, including the establishment of new provinces, Abbasi was quoted by the Express Tribune, as saying.

Abbasi made this remark while inaugurating the Multan-Shuja'abad section of the Sukkur-Multan Motorway (M-5).

He was accompanied by the Governor of Punjab province, Muhammad Rafiq Rajwana, and the Minister for Water Resources, Javed Ali Shah.

Referring to the forthcoming general elections in Pakistan, he said that, "Only a representative government, elected by the people, will be capable of overcoming challenges confronting the nation."

The Sukkur-Multan Motorway is part of Karachi-Lahore Motorway project and is being constructed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It is 394 kilometers long and will cost around Rs294 billion.

Abbasi made this remark while inaugurating the Multan-Shuja'abad section of the Sukkur-Multan Motorway (M-5)

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Saturday emphasized that the establishment of new provinces could only be done through national consensus. Dialogue should be held over many issues, including the establishment of new provinces, Abbasi was quoted by the Express Tribune, as saying. Abbasi made this remark while inaugurating the Multan-Shuja'abad section of the Sukkur-Multan Motorway (M-5). He was accompanied by the Governor of Punjab province, Muhammad Rafiq Rajwana, and the Minister for Water Resources, Javed Ali Shah. Referring to the forthcoming general elections in Pakistan, he said that, "Only a representative government, elected by the people, will be capable of overcoming challenges confronting the nation." The Sukkur-Multan Motorway is part of Karachi-Lahore Motorway project and is being constructed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It is 394 kilometers long and will cost around Rs294 billion.

National consensus required for new provinces: Pakistan Prime Minister

Pakistan expects to obtain fresh Chinese loans worth $1-2 billion to help it avert a balance of payments crisis, Pakistani government sources said, in another sign of Islamabad's growing reliance on Beijing for financial support. 
 
Lending to Pakistan by China and its banks is on track to hit $5 billion in the fiscal year ending in June, according to recent disclosures by officials and Pakistan finance ministry data reviewed by Reuters.

The ramp up in China's lending comes as the United States is cutting aid to Pakistan following a fracture in relations between the on-off allies. In February, Washington led efforts that saw Pakistan placed on a global terror financing watchlist, drawing anger in Islamabad amid fears it will hurt the economy. 
 
The new Chinese loans that are being negotiated will help bolster Pakistan's rapidly-depleting foreign currency reserves, which tumbled to $10.3 billion last week from $16.4 billion in May 2017. 
 
The talks come only weeks after a group of Chinese commercial banks lent $1 billion to Pakistan's government in April.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>The reserves decline and a sharp widening of Pakistan's current account deficit have prompted many financial analysts to predict that after the general election, likely in July, Islamabad will need its second International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout since 2013. The last IMF assistance package was worth $6.7 billion. 
 
Beijing's attempts to prop up Pakistan's economy follow a deepening in political and military ties in the wake of China's pledge to fund badly-needed power and road infrastructure as part of the $57 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) - that passes through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir - a key cog in Beijing's vast Belt and Road initiative. 
 
"I think this month we will get that $1-2 billion," said a senior Pakistan government official, saying the funds will come from Chinese state-run institutions. 
 
A second government official confirmed Pakistan was in "sensitive" talks with Beijing over extra funding for up to $2 billion. 
 
Pakistan finance ministry officials did not respond to a request for comment. 
 
China's finance ministry and central bank, who were faxed questions about the loans, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 
 
Although Pakistan's economic growth has soared to nearly 6 percent, the fastest pace in 13 years, the structural problems with the economy are coming to the fore. It is similar to 2013, when foreign currency reserves dwindled and Pakistan narrowly escaped a full-blown currency crisis. 
 
"The current situation appears to be a replica of what we experienced in 2013, albeit on a slightly larger scale," said Yaseen Anwar, who was the governor of the central bank, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), back in 2013. 
 
The darkening macroeconomic outlook prompted the IMF earlier this month to downgrade its economic growth forecast for Pakistan to 4.7 percent for the next fiscal year ending in June 2019, way below the government's own ambitious target of 6.2 percent. 
 
Over the past nine months Pakistan has enacted a series of measures to combat its ballooning current account deficit, including hiking tariffs on more than 200 luxury items and devaluing its currency by about 10 percent. 
 
In the six months to end of March, Pakistan took bilateral loans worth $1.2 billion from China, according to the Pakistan Finance Ministry document reviewed by Reuters. During this period the government also borrowed about $1.7 billion in commercial loans, mostly from Chinese banks, finance ministry officials added. 
 
In April, Pakistan's central bank borrowed another $1 billion from Chinese commercial banks to buffer its reserves, State Bank of Pakistan Governor Tariq Bajwa told the Financial Times (FT). A spokesman for the central bank told Reuters the FT report was accurate. 
 
The $1-2 billion under discussion would be in addition to that loan. 
So far, all the measures appear to have had a limited impact on Pakistan's economy and foreign exchange reserves continue to plummet. 
 
The collapse of the reserves is mainly due to the central bank's efforts to maintain an artificially strong rupee over the past few years, analysts say. The currency is now trading at about 115.50/116 to the U.S. dollar, down 9.8 percent in last six months after two separate devaluations since December. 
 
In the past three weeks, reserves have declined by $1.2 billion and now stand at two months worth of import cover. 
 
"This new (Chinese) money is a temporary bridge until August or September, when a new government will come into office and the country will likely opt for a new IMF programme," said Saad Hashmey, chief economist at brokerage house Topline Securities. 
Hashmey and several other economists are predicting another currency devaluation by the end of 2018. 
 
Pakistan may also seek help from Saudi Arabia. The Middle Eastern ally loaned $1.5 billion to Pakistan in 2014 to shore up its foreign currency reserves. 
 
The scale of the task facing Pakistan is huge as the current account deficit widened to $14 billion in the first 10 months of the current fiscal year, according to SBP data. Dollar-denominated debt repayments in 2018 are also expected to top $5 billion, analysts say. 
 
Part of the problem for Pakistan has been a multi-year consumer boom accompanied by huge imports of Chinese machinery for CPEC projects, which has piled pressure on the current account deficit. More recently, a jump in the oil price has compounded the problem as Pakistan is a fuel importer. 
 
One of the senior Pakistani government officials said the money from China should give the economy breathing space.

He said exports have shot up in the last two months, helped by the devaluation in the rupee, and that should help ease the current account deficit. 
 
However, Pakistan's central bank appears more nervous as oil prices climb, raising its main policy rate by 50 basis point to 6.5 percent on Friday and warning the "the balance-of-payments picture...has further deteriorated".

The new Chinese loans that are being negotiated will help bolster Pakistan's rapidly-depleting foreign currency reserves, which tumbled to $10.3 billion last week from $16.4 billion in May 2017

Pakistan expects to obtain fresh Chinese loans worth $1-2 billion to help it avert a balance of payments crisis, Pakistani government sources said, in another sign of Islamabad's growing reliance on Beijing for financial support. Lending to Pakistan by China and its banks is on track to hit $5 billion in the fiscal year ending in June, according to recent disclosures by officials and Pakistan finance ministry data reviewed by Reuters. The ramp up in China's lending comes as the United States is cutting aid to Pakistan following a fracture in relations between the on-off allies. In February, Washington led efforts that saw Pakistan placed on a global terror financing watchlist, drawing anger in Islamabad amid fears it will hurt the economy. The new Chinese loans that are being negotiated will help bolster Pakistan's rapidly-depleting foreign currency reserves, which tumbled to $10.3 billion last week from $16.4 billion in May 2017. The talks come only weeks after a group of Chinese commercial banks lent $1 billion to Pakistan's government in April. The reserves decline and a sharp widening of Pakistan's current account deficit have prompted many financial analysts to predict that after the general election, likely in July, Islamabad will need its second International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout since 2013. The last IMF assistance package was worth $6.7 billion. Beijing's attempts to prop up Pakistan's economy follow a deepening in political and military ties in the wake of China's pledge to fund badly-needed power and road infrastructure as part of the $57 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) - that passes through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir - a key cog in Beijing's vast Belt and Road initiative. "I think this month we will get that $1-2 billion," said a senior Pakistan government official, saying the funds will come from Chinese state-run institutions. A second government official confirmed Pakistan was in "sensitive" talks with Beijing over extra funding for up to $2 billion. Pakistan finance ministry officials did not respond to a request for comment. China's finance ministry and central bank, who were faxed questions about the loans, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Although Pakistan's economic growth has soared to nearly 6 percent, the fastest pace in 13 years, the structural problems with the economy are coming to the fore. It is similar to 2013, when foreign currency reserves dwindled and Pakistan narrowly escaped a full-blown currency crisis. "The current situation appears to be a replica of what we experienced in 2013, albeit on a slightly larger scale," said Yaseen Anwar, who was the governor of the central bank, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), back in 2013. The darkening macroeconomic outlook prompted the IMF earlier this month to downgrade its economic growth forecast for Pakistan to 4.7 percent for the next fiscal year ending in June 2019, way below the government's own ambitious target of 6.2 percent. Over the past nine months Pakistan has enacted a series of measures to combat its ballooning current account deficit, including hiking tariffs on more than 200 luxury items and devaluing its currency by about 10 percent. In the six months to end of March, Pakistan took bilateral loans worth $1.2 billion from China, according to the Pakistan Finance Ministry document reviewed by Reuters. During this period the government also borrowed about $1.7 billion in commercial loans, mostly from Chinese banks, finance ministry officials added. In April, Pakistan's central bank borrowed another $1 billion from Chinese commercial banks to buffer its reserves, State Bank of Pakistan Governor Tariq Bajwa told the Financial Times (FT). A spokesman for the central bank told Reuters the FT report was accurate. The $1-2 billion under discussion would be in addition to that loan. So far, all the measures appear to have had a limited impact on Pakistan's economy and foreign exchange reserves continue to plummet. The collapse of the reserves is mainly due to the central bank's efforts to maintain an artificially strong rupee over the past few years, analysts say. The currency is now trading at about 115.50/116 to the U.S. dollar, down 9.8 percent in last six months after two separate devaluations since December. In the past three weeks, reserves have declined by $1.2 billion and now stand at two months worth of import cover. "This new (Chinese) money is a temporary bridge until August or September, when a new government will come into office and the country will likely opt for a new IMF programme," said Saad Hashmey, chief economist at brokerage house Topline Securities. Hashmey and several other economists are predicting another currency devaluation by the end of 2018. Pakistan may also seek help from Saudi Arabia. The Middle Eastern ally loaned $1.5 billion to Pakistan in 2014 to shore up its foreign currency reserves. The scale of the task facing Pakistan is huge as the current account deficit widened to $14 billion in the first 10 months of the current fiscal year, according to SBP data. Dollar-denominated debt repayments in 2018 are also expected to top $5 billion, analysts say. Part of the problem for Pakistan has been a multi-year consumer boom accompanied by huge imports of Chinese machinery for CPEC projects, which has piled pressure on the current account deficit. More recently, a jump in the oil price has compounded the problem as Pakistan is a fuel importer. One of the senior Pakistani government officials said the money from China should give the economy breathing space. He said exports have shot up in the last two months, helped by the devaluation in the rupee, and that should help ease the current account deficit. However, Pakistan's central bank appears more nervous as oil prices climb, raising its main policy rate by 50 basis point to 6.5 percent on Friday and warning the "the balance-of-payments picture...has further deteriorated".

Pakistan seeks economic lifeline with fresh China loans

Pakistan's Senate on Friday endorsed a Constitutional amendment seeking to merge the restive tribal region along the Afghanistan border with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province in the northwest, a day after the historic move was overwhelmingly passed by the National Assembly.

The 31st constitutional amendment bill was moved in the 104-member Senate by Law Minister Bashir Virk to merge Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa after months of delays following disagreements between coalition partners and the opposition over its clauses.

The amendment was passed with a 229-1 vote in the National Assembly yesterday, bringing an end to 150-year-old British-era arrangement.

The bill which needed 69 votes was supported by 71 Senators while only five members opposed it. The opposition came from Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP).

Another party which opposed was Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F). It boycotted the voting on the bill by staging a walk out.

The bill will now be presented in the assembly of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province as it aims to change the territory of the province by merger of tribal region into it.

According to the Constitution, any change in the territory of a province must be passed with two-thirds majority by the assembly of the respective province.

It is a race against time as provincial assembly will complete its tenure on May 28 and the bill should be presented and passed before that.

Since Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), which supported the bill in the national parliament, is in majority in the province and also has support of other parties, the merger law is expected to be passed easily.

Finally, the president will sign the bill passed by the federal parliament and provincial legislature to become part of the law.

The semi-autonomous tribal region was created by British government as a buffer between India and Afghanistan.

&nbspThe tribal areas currently consist of seven districts which stretch along the border with Afghanistan, and became known to the world due to presence of militants who fled the porous border after the US forces invaded Afghanistan after 9/11 attack.

Pakistan forces launched repeated military operation to clear the areas of rebels and dismantle their hideouts which were used to launch attacks in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The 31st constitutional amendment bill was moved in the 104-member Senate by Law Minister Bashir Virk to merge Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa after months of delays following disagreements between coalition partners and the opposition over its clauses

Pakistan's Senate on Friday endorsed a Constitutional amendment seeking to merge the restive tribal region along the Afghanistan border with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province in the northwest, a day after the historic move was overwhelmingly passed by the National Assembly. The 31st constitutional amendment bill was moved in the 104-member Senate by Law Minister Bashir Virk to merge Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa after months of delays following disagreements between coalition partners and the opposition over its clauses. The amendment was passed with a 229-1 vote in the National Assembly yesterday, bringing an end to 150-year-old British-era arrangement. The bill which needed 69 votes was supported by 71 Senators while only five members opposed it. The opposition came from Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP). Another party which opposed was Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F). It boycotted the voting on the bill by staging a walk out. The bill will now be presented in the assembly of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province as it aims to change the territory of the province by merger of tribal region into it. According to the Constitution, any change in the territory of a province must be passed with two-thirds majority by the assembly of the respective province. It is a race against time as provincial assembly will complete its tenure on May 28 and the bill should be presented and passed before that. Since Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), which supported the bill in the national parliament, is in majority in the province and also has support of other parties, the merger law is expected to be passed easily. Finally, the president will sign the bill passed by the federal parliament and provincial legislature to become part of the law. The semi-autonomous tribal region was created by British government as a buffer between India and Afghanistan. &nbspThe tribal areas currently consist of seven districts which stretch along the border with Afghanistan, and became known to the world due to presence of militants who fled the porous border after the US forces invaded Afghanistan after 9/11 attack. Pakistan forces launched repeated military operation to clear the areas of rebels and dismantle their hideouts which were used to launch attacks in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Pakistan's Senate votes to merge FATA with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan which are scheduled to be held in July, the opposition parties in the country have failed to appoint a caretaker prime minister.

According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government.

The current government will come to an end in Pakistan on May 31 while the elections will be held on July 25-27. The new goverment will therefore be formed within 60 days.&nbsp

The responsibility to appoint a neutral government lies with the leader of the house (Prime Minister) and leader of the opposition. The two are required to hold a consultation to suggest a name for the caretaker PM .

The leader of Opposition Party in Pakistan, Khursheed Shah who belongs to the Pakistan People's Party said he had held a discussion of five rounds with PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, but the two could not agree on a single name.

He added that now the speaker of the National Assembly will set a Parliamentary Committee to decide on the name of the Caretaker PM.

The Committee will include members from the two parties in Pakistan, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan's People's Party. The two parties will send the name of their nominees to the committee.

If the Parliamentary also fails to agree on a single name for the post, the decision will rest on the Election Commission of Pakistan which will appoint the Caretaker PM from the list of the nominees.

According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan which are scheduled to be held in July, the opposition parties in the country have failed to appoint a caretaker prime minister. According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government. The current government will come to an end in Pakistan on May 31 while the elections will be held on July 25-27. The new goverment will therefore be formed within 60 days. The responsibility to appoint a neutral government lies with the leader of the house (Prime Minister) and leader of the opposition. The two are required to hold a consultation to suggest a name for the caretaker PM . The leader of Opposition Party in Pakistan, Khursheed Shah who belongs to the Pakistan People's Party said he had held a discussion of five rounds with PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, but the two could not agree on a single name. He added that now the speaker of the National Assembly will set a Parliamentary Committee to decide on the name of the Caretaker PM. The Committee will include members from the two parties in Pakistan, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan's People's Party. The two parties will send the name of their nominees to the committee. If the Parliamentary also fails to agree on a single name for the post, the decision will rest on the Election Commission of Pakistan which will appoint the Caretaker PM from the list of the nominees.

Pakistan political parties fail to appoint caretaker PM

Pakistan on Friday said it expected India to release 54 Pakistanis who had completed their prison terms in several Indian jails.

The Foreign Office (FO) in Islamabad said Pakistan expects the friendly gestures it had extended towards India to be reciprocated.

During a press briefing here, FO spokesperson Muhammad Faisal said that Islamabad was pursuing the release of 54 Pakistani prisoners who he claimed were currently in Indian jails despite completing their sentences.

He said Pakistan was also waiting for India to respond to humanitarian proposals with regard to the exchange of prisoners above 60 and below 18 years of age.

"Pakistan has made positive gestures on the humanitarian track vis-a-vis India, as reflected in the release of civilian prisoners, fishermen, and the facilitation of visits of pilgrims to religious shrines. We expect our friendly gestures to be reciprocated," Faisal said.

He also raised the issue of the Kishanganga Dam in Jammu and Kashmir saying that a Pakistani delegation had met World Bank officials to discuss the issues under the Indus Waters Treaty.

He said Pakistan regretted Indian attempts to make the Indus Waters Treaty dysfunctional and that the inauguration of the Kishanganga Dam by India is a "flagrant disregard" of the commitments to the World Bank and an "utter violation" of the treaty.

Pakistan on Friday said it expected India to release 54 Pakistanis who had completed their prison terms in several Indian jails

Pakistan on Friday said it expected India to release 54 Pakistanis who had completed their prison terms in several Indian jails. The Foreign Office (FO) in Islamabad said Pakistan expects the friendly gestures it had extended towards India to be reciprocated. During a press briefing here, FO spokesperson Muhammad Faisal said that Islamabad was pursuing the release of 54 Pakistani prisoners who he claimed were currently in Indian jails despite completing their sentences. He said Pakistan was also waiting for India to respond to humanitarian proposals with regard to the exchange of prisoners above 60 and below 18 years of age. "Pakistan has made positive gestures on the humanitarian track vis-a-vis India, as reflected in the release of civilian prisoners, fishermen, and the facilitation of visits of pilgrims to religious shrines. We expect our friendly gestures to be reciprocated," Faisal said. He also raised the issue of the Kishanganga Dam in Jammu and Kashmir saying that a Pakistani delegation had met World Bank officials to discuss the issues under the Indus Waters Treaty. He said Pakistan regretted Indian attempts to make the Indus Waters Treaty dysfunctional and that the inauguration of the Kishanganga Dam by India is a "flagrant disregard" of the commitments to the World Bank and an "utter violation" of the treaty.

Pakistan seeks repatriation of prisoners in India

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti hit out at Pakistan on Friday for continuously violating the ceasefire along the International border in the state.

She said she had expected that Pakistan would not indulge in ceasefire violation during the month of Ramzan.

She said,&nbsp;"All countries are coming together to achieve peace. But, I don't know when we (India and Pakistan) will achieve peace. We are working on forming an exclusive Border battalion in which people living closer to border areas will be included".&nbsp;

Over thousands of people across the International border in Jammu and Kashmir moved out of&nbsp;their homes in the last few days to escape heavy shelling by the Pakistan forces.

The settlements along the LOC has come to a standstill after the migration of the people from there.&nbsp;

"Arnia town is empty as most of its population has migrated. They have shifted either to their relatives or to shelter camps set up by the government", Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Jammu, Arun Manhas, told PTI.

In the wake of the Ramzaan, the Home Ministry had suspended any operation by state security forces against the militants.&nbsp;However, the forces had the right to respond to an attack in order to safeguard themselves.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir police along with the army have busted a terrorist hideout in Ramban district's Kalimasta forest area. The forces have also recovered huge stock of arms and ammunition.

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All countries are coming together to achieve peace. But, I don't know when we (India & Pakistan) will achieve peace. We are working on forming an exclusive Border battalion in which people living closer to border areas will be included: J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti. <a href="https://t.co/ICzJoUuH7I">pic.twitter.com/ICzJoUuH7I</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999967254253981698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mehbooba Mufti said she had expected that Pakistan would not indulge in ceasefire violation during the month of Ramzan

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti hit out at Pakistan on Friday for continuously violating the ceasefire along the International border in the state. She said she had expected that Pakistan would not indulge in ceasefire violation during the month of Ramzan. She said, "All countries are coming together to achieve peace. But, I don't know when we (India and Pakistan) will achieve peace. We are working on forming an exclusive Border battalion in which people living closer to border areas will be included". Over thousands of people across the International border in Jammu and Kashmir moved out of their homes in the last few days to escape heavy shelling by the Pakistan forces. The settlements along the LOC has come to a standstill after the migration of the people from there. "Arnia town is empty as most of its population has migrated. They have shifted either to their relatives or to shelter camps set up by the government", Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Jammu, Arun Manhas, told PTI. In the wake of the Ramzaan, the Home Ministry had suspended any operation by state security forces against the militants. However, the forces had the right to respond to an attack in order to safeguard themselves. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir police along with the army have busted a terrorist hideout in Ramban district's Kalimasta forest area. The forces have also recovered huge stock of arms and ammunition. All countries are coming together to achieve peace. But, I don't know when we (India & Pakistan) will achieve peace. We are working on forming an exclusive Border battalion in which people living closer to border areas will be included: J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti. pic.twitter.com/ICzJoUuH7I — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2018 ×

J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti slams Pakistan for ceasefire violation

The Government of Pakistan has called for a temporary ban on the exhibition and screening of Indian films during Eid holidays next month.&nbsp

Indian films will be banned from two days before the Eid to until two weeks after the holidays, a notification issued by Pakistan's ministry of information and broadcasting noted.&nbsp

According to the officials, the move is an outcome of the requests received by the Pakistani film exhibitors, distributors and production houses.

"The notification says that the temporary ban is being imposed in order to promote local movies on the festivals, a time when usual than the larger audience is attracted towards cinemas," an official from the Pakistan Film Exhibitors' Association noted.

According to reports, the notification would also be applicable for the Eid-ul-Adha holidays that will fall around late August or September.

Pakistani film producers and artists have been facing stiff completion from the Indian and Hollywood movies. The limited number of screens in the country does not facilitate good business for most distributors and filmmakers in Pakistan.

Eid is also the time when a number of new Pakistani films are usually due for a release.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp

The exhibition and screening of Indian and foreign films will be banned from two days before the Eid to until two weeks after the holidays

The Government of Pakistan has called for a temporary ban on the exhibition and screening of Indian films during Eid holidays next month. Indian films will be banned from two days before the Eid to until two weeks after the holidays, a notification issued by Pakistan's ministry of information and broadcasting noted. According to the officials, the move is an outcome of the requests received by the Pakistani film exhibitors, distributors and production houses. "The notification says that the temporary ban is being imposed in order to promote local movies on the festivals, a time when usual than the larger audience is attracted towards cinemas," an official from the Pakistan Film Exhibitors' Association noted. According to reports, the notification would also be applicable for the Eid-ul-Adha holidays that will fall around late August or September. Pakistani film producers and artists have been facing stiff completion from the Indian and Hollywood movies. The limited number of screens in the country does not facilitate good business for most distributors and filmmakers in Pakistan. Eid is also the time when a number of new Pakistani films are usually due for a release. (With inputs from PTI)

Pakistan temporarily bans Indian films during Eid

China has given Pakistan a credit line worth $1.6 billion to stave off a balance of payments crisis, two Pakistani central bank sources said&nbsp;on Thursday, with cash earmarked for boosting fast-depleting foreign currency reserves.

Two State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) sources told Reuters the credit facility that accompanies a currency swap agreement between SBP and China`s central bank has been hiked to 20 billion yuan ($3.13 billion) from 10 billion yuan.

"This arrangement has been finalised," said one SBP source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. A second source confirmed the agreement and the figures.

China has given Pakistan a credit line worth $1.6 billion to stave off a balance of payments crisis

China has given Pakistan a credit line worth $1.6 billion to stave off a balance of payments crisis, two Pakistani central bank sources said on Thursday, with cash earmarked for boosting fast-depleting foreign currency reserves. Two State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) sources told Reuters the credit facility that accompanies a currency swap agreement between SBP and China`s central bank has been hiked to 20 billion yuan ($3.13 billion) from 10 billion yuan. "This arrangement has been finalised," said one SBP source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. A second source confirmed the agreement and the figures.

China gives Pakistan $1.6 billion credit line to boost currency reserves

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday instructed Pakistan cricketers to stop wearing smart watches while playing. &nbsp

The issue came to light when Asad Shafiz and Babar Azam were seen wearing smart watches during the opening day's play of the first Test against England at Lord's on Thursday.&nbsp

As per reports, there was no suggestion of wrongdoing, but the council instructed the Pakistan team against wearing such watches as an anti-corruption measure.&nbsp

Pakistan ended the first day of this two-match series well-placed at 50 for one after bowling England out for just 184.

"I didn't know earlier that anyone was wearing one (a smart watch)," Pakistan's Hasan Ali, said after the end of Day 1.&nbsp

"But yes, an ICC anti-corruption officer came to us and told us this is not allowed. So next time nobody will wear them," he added.

In a bid to combat financial malpractice in cricket, players and match officials must hand over their mobile phones and other devices capable of electronic transmission before play to the appointed ICC anti-corruption officer present at every major international match.

The devices are returned after stumps.

Lord's was the venue where three Pakistan players, including Mohammad Amir, who is playing in this match, were involved in a spot-fixing scandal during a 2010 Test against England.

The English court sentenced Amir, fellow pace bowler Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt, Pakistan's captain in that match, to jail terms, with the trio also given five-year worldwide ban from cricket by the ICC. &nbsp

Lord's was the venue where three Pakistan players, including Mohammad Amir, were involved in a spot-fixing scandal in 2010 against England

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday instructed Pakistan cricketers to stop wearing smart watches while playing. The issue came to light when Asad Shafiz and Babar Azam were seen wearing smart watches during the opening day's play of the first Test against England at Lord's on Thursday. As per reports, there was no suggestion of wrongdoing, but the council instructed the Pakistan team against wearing such watches as an anti-corruption measure. Pakistan ended the first day of this two-match series well-placed at 50 for one after bowling England out for just 184. "I didn't know earlier that anyone was wearing one (a smart watch)," Pakistan's Hasan Ali, said after the end of Day 1. "But yes, an ICC anti-corruption officer came to us and told us this is not allowed. So next time nobody will wear them," he added. In a bid to combat financial malpractice in cricket, players and match officials must hand over their mobile phones and other devices capable of electronic transmission before play to the appointed ICC anti-corruption officer present at every major international match. The devices are returned after stumps. Lord's was the venue where three Pakistan players, including Mohammad Amir, who is playing in this match, were involved in a spot-fixing scandal during a 2010 Test against England. The English court sentenced Amir, fellow pace bowler Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt, Pakistan's captain in that match, to jail terms, with the trio also given five-year worldwide ban from cricket by the ICC.

ICC orders Pakistan cricketers to stop wearing 'smart' watches

By Manish Shukla

Bangladeshi terror groups are trying to bring weapons into the country from Pakistan's Karachi, a BSF report has said.&nbsp

The BSF report says a meeting was recently called by members of the Jamat ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and the Neo-JMB in Dhaka. Security agencies say the Neo-JMB is an offshoot of the JMB, a banned militant outfit.

The report says the meeting discussed the possibility of bringing arms and ammunition into the country, via the sea route, from Karachi to Chittagong.&nbsp

The BSF report has been shared with the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp

Indian intelligence agencies say the JMB and Neo-JMB are active along the India-Bangladesh border.&nbsp

The agencies say the JMB is targeting teenagers studying in madrasas in the country's border districts to co-opt them into jihadist activities.&nbsp

The Neo-JMB is reportedly trying to regroup with the Sarwar Tamim faction of the JMB.

Indian intelligence agenices say the porous border between India and Bangladesh and the presence of a large number of illegal migrants from Bangladesh make it easy for terrorists to enter India. Furthermore, the numerous madrasas near the border provide a platform for the radicalisation of local youth.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) says its probe into the Burdwan blast revealed JMB members would regularly visit the madrasas in the border districts. The agency added that documents seized at the site of the blast indicated the regular conduct of terror-training classes by the JMB in West Bengal.

The BSF report has been shared with the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs

By Manish Shukla Bangladeshi terror groups are trying to bring weapons into the country from Pakistan's Karachi, a BSF report has said. The BSF report says a meeting was recently called by members of the Jamat ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and the Neo-JMB in Dhaka. Security agencies say the Neo-JMB is an offshoot of the JMB, a banned militant outfit. The report says the meeting discussed the possibility of bringing arms and ammunition into the country, via the sea route, from Karachi to Chittagong. The BSF report has been shared with the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs. Indian intelligence agencies say the JMB and Neo-JMB are active along the India-Bangladesh border. The agencies say the JMB is targeting teenagers studying in madrasas in the country's border districts to co-opt them into jihadist activities. The Neo-JMB is reportedly trying to regroup with the Sarwar Tamim faction of the JMB. Indian intelligence agenices say the porous border between India and Bangladesh and the presence of a large number of illegal migrants from Bangladesh make it easy for terrorists to enter India. Furthermore, the numerous madrasas near the border provide a platform for the radicalisation of local youth. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) says its probe into the Burdwan blast revealed JMB members would regularly visit the madrasas in the border districts. The agency added that documents seized at the site of the blast indicated the regular conduct of terror-training classes by the JMB in West Bengal.

Bangladeshi terror groups trying to bring in weapons from Karachi: BSF report

American financial assistance to Pakistan is under review, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told lawmakers today and accused Islamabad of treating US diplomats "badly".&nbsp;

Pompeo was responding to questions from Congressman Dana Rohrabacher who said the US should stop providing any financial assistance to Pakistan until it releases Shakil Afridi, a doctor who helped the CIA hunt down Osama bin Laden in 2011.

"With respect to Pakistan, we released far fewer funds in 2018 than in the year prior. The remainder of the funds available are under review. My guess is that that number will be smaller still," he told members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Rohrabacher said he sees no "reason" in giving any financial aid to Pakistan if it still keeps Afridi in jail.

Pompeo said he worked "diligently" on the issue of Afridi in his previous role as the CIA Director, but acknowledged that he has been "unsuccessful" so far.

"Please be aware that it's at my heart and I know it's important and we can do that. We can achieve that outcome," he said.

Rohrabacher intervened by saying that the situation is getting "worse" in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"These people in Karachi and the Sindhs and the others, they're now facing these people who are killing their leaders or killing their people who believe in certain things that are different than the radical Islamic philosophy of some of the people in the Pakistani government," he alleged.&nbsp;

Besides financial assistance issue, Pompeo said, the US also needs to take note of treatment meted out to American diplomats by Pakistan.

"Our State Department officials are being treated badly as well. Folks working in the embassies and in the consulates and other places are not being treated well by the Pakistani government either, a real problem that we need to take the measure of also," he said.

Congressman Brad Sharman hoped that the US State Department would reach out to the leaders of Pakistan about the "forced disappearances in Sind".

Pompeo was responding to questions from Congressman Dana Rohrabacher who said the US should stop providing any financial assistance to Pakistan until it releases Shakil Afridi, a doctor who helped the CIA hunt down Osama bin Laden in 2011

American financial assistance to Pakistan is under review, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told lawmakers today and accused Islamabad of treating US diplomats "badly". Pompeo was responding to questions from Congressman Dana Rohrabacher who said the US should stop providing any financial assistance to Pakistan until it releases Shakil Afridi, a doctor who helped the CIA hunt down Osama bin Laden in 2011. "With respect to Pakistan, we released far fewer funds in 2018 than in the year prior. The remainder of the funds available are under review. My guess is that that number will be smaller still," he told members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Rohrabacher said he sees no "reason" in giving any financial aid to Pakistan if it still keeps Afridi in jail. Pompeo said he worked "diligently" on the issue of Afridi in his previous role as the CIA Director, but acknowledged that he has been "unsuccessful" so far. "Please be aware that it's at my heart and I know it's important and we can do that. We can achieve that outcome," he said. Rohrabacher intervened by saying that the situation is getting "worse" in Pakistan. "These people in Karachi and the Sindhs and the others, they're now facing these people who are killing their leaders or killing their people who believe in certain things that are different than the radical Islamic philosophy of some of the people in the Pakistani government," he alleged. Besides financial assistance issue, Pompeo said, the US also needs to take note of treatment meted out to American diplomats by Pakistan. "Our State Department officials are being treated badly as well. Folks working in the embassies and in the consulates and other places are not being treated well by the Pakistani government either, a real problem that we need to take the measure of also," he said. Congressman Brad Sharman hoped that the US State Department would reach out to the leaders of Pakistan about the "forced disappearances in Sind".

Financial assistance to Pakistan under review: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

Former Test captain Alastair Cook played a superb knock and smashed a gritty 70 as England were165 for five at tea on the first day of the opening test against Pakistan at Lord's on Thursday.

Playing in a record-equalling 153rd consecutive test, Cook batted fluently. But wickets tumbled around him after England captain Joe Root had won the toss in overcast conditions at the home of cricket.

Mark Stoneman, Root and Dawid Malan fell cheaply to the Pakistan seamers in the morning, leaving England struggling at 43 for three before Cook and Jonny Bairstow steadied the innings with a partnership of 57.

Bairstow, however, was bowled after lunch for 27 by a fine delivery from&nbsp

Faheem Ashraf and Cook's three-hour vigil ended when Mohammad Amir produced an excellent ball that clipped his off stump.

Ben Stokes unfurled a few trademark attacking strokes to reach 36 not out at the tea interval with Jos Buttler on 13, but England have plenty of work to do as they look to move on from a heavy Ashes defeat in Australia and a rare loss to New Zealand.

Pakistan had dominated the first session of the two-match series.

Root, who could have been run out before he had scored, played carefully to get to four before driving rashly at a wide ball from Hasan Ali and nicking a catch to wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed.

But Cook's hopes of a 33rd test century ended when he failed to get fully forward to a good-length delivery from Amir, leaving the left-hander to trudge slowly back to the pavilion to a standing ovation.&nbsp

Playing in a record-equalling 153rd consecutive test, Cook batted fluently

Former Test captain Alastair Cook played a superb knock and smashed a gritty 70 as England were165 for five at tea on the first day of the opening test against Pakistan at Lord's on Thursday. Playing in a record-equalling 153rd consecutive test, Cook batted fluently. But wickets tumbled around him after England captain Joe Root had won the toss in overcast conditions at the home of cricket. Mark Stoneman, Root and Dawid Malan fell cheaply to the Pakistan seamers in the morning, leaving England struggling at 43 for three before Cook and Jonny Bairstow steadied the innings with a partnership of 57. Bairstow, however, was bowled after lunch for 27 by a fine delivery from Faheem Ashraf and Cook's three-hour vigil ended when Mohammad Amir produced an excellent ball that clipped his off stump. Ben Stokes unfurled a few trademark attacking strokes to reach 36 not out at the tea interval with Jos Buttler on 13, but England have plenty of work to do as they look to move on from a heavy Ashes defeat in Australia and a rare loss to New Zealand. Pakistan had dominated the first session of the two-match series. Root, who could have been run out before he had scored, played carefully to get to four before driving rashly at a wide ball from Hasan Ali and nicking a catch to wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed. But Cook's hopes of a 33rd test century ended when he failed to get fully forward to a good-length delivery from Amir, leaving the left-hander to trudge slowly back to the pavilion to a standing ovation.

1st Test: Alastair Cook's gritty 70 helps England reach 184

Republican Congressmen Thomas Garrett has claimed that the leadership in Pakistan is responsible for the human rights violation in the country.

While addressing a US-based advocacy group "South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation" he said, "There is no single community in Pakistan that I'm critical of, it is the leadership that denies individuals their rights, not by constitution or law but by nature and so things aren't operating as they were designed to operate".

The advocacy group represents ethnic minorities&nbsp;Mohajirs, Baloch, Gilgit and Hazara from Pakistan.

The platform is formed to address the "massive human rights violation by security forces and the ruling establishment of the country".

The advocacy group received support from two Republican Congressmen Thomas Garrett from Virginia and Scott Perry from Pennsylvania.

While Thomas Garrett claimed that the human rights violation in the country is because of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Scott Perry spoke against the US funding to Pakistan.

Scott Perry, who has voted in the House of Representative against the funding for Pakistan said, "You don't take American money and oppress your people with our money. That's not good".

Thomas Garrett said, "If you look at the constitution what some might say is controlled by the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), it's the leadership of the nation that denies individuals the rights that they are entitled to".

The oppressed in Pakistan are expecting the intervention of US and the international community to step in and take measures against the atrocities being committed by Pakistani security forces and ISI, Nadeem Nusrat, Chairman of the Voice of Karachi said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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The oppression of ethnic minorities, to include Mohajirs etc, has existed for along time (in Pakistan): Republican Congressmen Thomas Garrett in Washington DC at an event by 'South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation,' an advocacy group against human rights violation in Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/PdJxujFVhl">pic.twitter.com/PdJxujFVhl</a>
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(With inputs from ANI)

While addressing a US-based advocacy group "South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation" he said, 'There is no single community in Pakistan that I'm critical of, it is the leadership that denies individuals their rights, not by constitution or law but by nature and so things aren't operating as they were designed to operate'

Republican Congressmen Thomas Garrett has claimed that the leadership in Pakistan is responsible for the human rights violation in the country. While addressing a US-based advocacy group "South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation" he said, "There is no single community in Pakistan that I'm critical of, it is the leadership that denies individuals their rights, not by constitution or law but by nature and so things aren't operating as they were designed to operate". The advocacy group represents ethnic minorities Mohajirs, Baloch, Gilgit and Hazara from Pakistan. The platform is formed to address the "massive human rights violation by security forces and the ruling establishment of the country". The advocacy group received support from two Republican Congressmen Thomas Garrett from Virginia and Scott Perry from Pennsylvania. While Thomas Garrett claimed that the human rights violation in the country is because of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Scott Perry spoke against the US funding to Pakistan. Scott Perry, who has voted in the House of Representative against the funding for Pakistan said, "You don't take American money and oppress your people with our money. That's not good". Thomas Garrett said, "If you look at the constitution what some might say is controlled by the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), it's the leadership of the nation that denies individuals the rights that they are entitled to". The oppressed in Pakistan are expecting the intervention of US and the international community to step in and take measures against the atrocities being committed by Pakistani security forces and ISI, Nadeem Nusrat, Chairman of the Voice of Karachi said. The oppression of ethnic minorities, to include Mohajirs etc, has existed for along time (in Pakistan): Republican Congressmen Thomas Garrett in Washington DC at an event by 'South Asian Minorities Alliance Foundation,' an advocacy group against human rights violation in Pakistan pic.twitter.com/PdJxujFVhl — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2018 × (With inputs from ANI)

Leadership in Pakistan responsible for human rights violation: US lawmaker

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-entirely-up-to-us-we-will-not-beg-north-korea-139284">Kim-Trump summit 'entirely' up to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-entirely-up-to-us-we-will-not-beg-north-korea-139284">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-entirely-up-to-us-we-will-not-beg-north-korea-139284">, we will not beg: North Korea</a>

North Korea's vice foreign minister said the future of the summit between Pyongyang and Washington is "entirely" up to the United States and condemned a media interview by US Vice President Mike Pence in which he compared the North to Libya.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-sterlite-protests-police-chief-district-collector-transferred-amid-fresh-clashes-139280">Anti-Sterlite protests: Internet suspended, top cop, DC transferred</a>

Internet services in Tuticorin have been temporarily suspended from 9 pm on Wednesday until further instruction by the administration.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-diesel-prices-continue-to-soar-hit-new-high-in-last-four-days-139288">Petrol, diesel prices continue to soar, hit another new high</a>

Petrol prices were recorded at Rs 77.47/litre in Delhi on Thursday morning while for Mumbai it stood at Rs 85.29/litre. In Delhi, the price of diesel was registered at Rs 68.53/litre and at Rs 72.96/litre for Mumbai.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-fires-automatic-weapons-and-mortars-along-loc-in-baramulla-district-139281">Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Baramulla district</a>

According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/heavy-floods-landslides-in-sri-lanka-at-least-9-killed-139219">Heavy floods, landslides in Sri Lanka at least 9 killed</a>

Heavy monsoon rains in Sri Lanka have killed at least nine people as the monsoon season kicked off in the emerald country. Reports said at least 38,000 people have been affected by the rains and storms which have lashed central and south Sri Lanka.

Kim-Trump summit 'entirely' up to US, we will not beg: North Korea North Korea's vice foreign minister said the future of the summit between Pyongyang and Washington is "entirely" up to the United States and condemned a media interview by US Vice President Mike Pence in which he compared the North to Libya. Anti-Sterlite protests: Internet suspended, top cop, DC transferred Internet services in Tuticorin have been temporarily suspended from 9 pm on Wednesday until further instruction by the administration. Petrol, diesel prices continue to soar, hit another new high Petrol prices were recorded at Rs 77.47/litre in Delhi on Thursday morning while for Mumbai it stood at Rs 85.29/litre. In Delhi, the price of diesel was registered at Rs 68.53/litre and at Rs 72.96/litre for Mumbai. Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Baramulla district According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District. Heavy floods, landslides in Sri Lanka at least 9 killed Heavy monsoon rains in Sri Lanka have killed at least nine people as the monsoon season kicked off in the emerald country. Reports said at least 38,000 people have been affected by the rains and storms which have lashed central and south Sri Lanka.

News brief: Big stories of the day

According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District.

The Pakistan army violated ceasefire by firing automatic weapons and shelling mortars along the Line of Control.&nbsp;

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Pakistan army violates ceasefire by firing from automatic weapons & shelling mortars along the line of control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Baramulla District. More details awaited. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/E5GrOxXfLx">pic.twitter.com/E5GrOxXfLx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999412736261066754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Another ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Wednesday killed three civilians in Samba sector. Many were reported injured, a number of houses were damaged.

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Houses damaged in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Samba. Locals take shelter in bunkers, say, 'cannot even go back to see the situation of our houses. Don't know when will we be able to go home' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/kV8khndUd9">pic.twitter.com/kV8khndUd9</a>
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Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan continued with heavy shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Hiranagar sector killing one and injuring two.&nbsp;

Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning.

One more civilian was reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector.&nbsp;

At least six civilians were injured in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-grenade-attack-injures-6-area-cordoned-off-139122">grenade attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag's Bijbehara</a> area on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Another ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Wednesday killed three civilians in Samba sector.

According to reports, Pakistan violated ceasefire early Thursday morning along the Line of Control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District. The Pakistan army violated ceasefire by firing automatic weapons and shelling mortars along the Line of Control. Pakistan army violates ceasefire by firing from automatic weapons & shelling mortars along the line of control (LOC) in Kamal Koot area of Uri sector in Baramulla District. More details awaited. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/E5GrOxXfLx — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Another ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Wednesday killed three civilians in Samba sector. Many were reported injured, a number of houses were damaged. Houses damaged in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Samba. Locals take shelter in bunkers, say, 'cannot even go back to see the situation of our houses. Don't know when will we be able to go home' #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/kV8khndUd9 — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan continued with heavy shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Hiranagar sector killing one and injuring two. Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning. One more civilian was reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector. At least six civilians were injured in a grenade attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag's Bijbehara area on Wednesday.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Baramulla district

Recent remarks by several senior Pakistani officials suggest that Pakistan and China are groping with how to deal with globally designated Pakistani militant Hafiz Saeed as the South Asian nation gears up for elections expected in July and risks being next month put on an international terrorism finance and money laundering watchlist.

The Pakistani-Chinese dilemma stems from a China-backed Pakistani refusal to fully implement designations of Hafiz Saeed by the United Nations Security Council and the US Treasury.

The United States has put a $10 million bounty the head of Saeed, who is believed to lead the outlawed militant group, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as well as Jamaat-ud-Dawa, an alleged LeT front, and is suspected of being the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which 166 people were killed.

Pakistan has repeatedly put Saeed under house arrest, only to release him on court orders that asserted that there was insufficient evidence against him. The government has half-heartedly sought to seize Jamaat-ud-Dawa assets and prevent it from collecting donations through its charity arm, Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation.

Pakistan's election commission has so far refused to register a political party established by Jamaat-ud-Dawa in advance of the elections. The refusal would not prevent party members from running as independents.

To reduce focus on Saeed, a senior aide to Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that Chinese President Xi Jinping had asked Abbasi during a meeting on the sidelines of last month's Boao Forum to explore relocating Saeed to a Middle Eastern country.

"At a 35-minute meeting, at least 10 minutes of the discussion dealt with Saeed. The Chinese President was keen on pressing the Prime Minister to find an early solution to keep Saeed away from the limelight," a leading Indian daily quoted the aide as saying.

In separate remarks, Major General Asif Ghafoor - a spokesman for Pakistan's ISI - told another Indian newspaper that "anything (Saeed) does, other than violence, is good. There is a process in Pakistan for anyone to participate in politics. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has its rules and laws. If he (Saeed) fulfills all those requirements that is for the ECP to decide."

The divergent proposals to either remove Saeed from the limelight or mainstream him by integrating him into the political process are unlikely to satisfy either the United Nations or the United States.

They are also unlikely to prevent the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global financial watchdog that monitors the funding of political violence and money laundering, from next month putting Pakistan on its watchlist.

The FATF action could negatively affect the Pakistan economy. Pakistan risks downgrading by multilateral lenders such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as well as by international credit rating agencies Moody's, Standard & Poor's and Fitch.

Xi's suggestion to Abbasi reflects Chinese ambivalence towards those Pakistani militants that both Islamabad and Beijing see as useful tools to keep India off balance. China protected Saeed from UN designation prior to the Mumbai attacks and has since prevented another Pakistani militant, Masood Azhar, from being designated by the Security Council.

At the same time, China refrained in February from shielding Pakistan from censorship by FATF.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson nonetheless argued at the time that "in recent years, Pakistan has made important progress in actively strengthening financial regulations to combat terror financing... China highly recognises that and hopes all relevant parties of the international community could arrive at an objective and fair conclusion on that."

Implementing Xi's proposal to remove Saeed from the limelight is easier said than done. It's hard to see what Middle Eastern nation would risk international criticism by granting Saeed asylum without tacit approval by the United States and/or the United Nations. By the same token, its unlikely that either would agree to the scheme.

Similarly, neither the UN nor the United States are likely to be persuaded by a belief within the Pakistani military that the best way of blunting militancy that has over the decades been woven into the fabric of significant segments of the armed forces, intelligence and society is by mainstreaming militants and integrating them into the political process.

Ousted Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif kicked up a storm when he earlier this month appeared to confirm the pervasiveness of militancy by suggesting that the perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks had been supported by Pakistan.

"Militant organisations are active. Call them non-state actors, should we allow them to cross the border and kill 150 people in Mumbai? Explain it to me. Why can't we complete the trial? It's unacceptable. This is exactly what we are struggling for. President Putin has said it. President Xi has said it. We could have already been at seven per cent growth (in GDP), but we are not," Sharif said.

The remarks by the Pakistani officials suggest that both Pakistan and China are attempting to square circles.

Pakistan needs to be seen as cracking down on militancy while considering the domestic influence of ultra-conservative religious groups as well as seemingly misguided beliefs that support for anti-Indian militants serves its purpose.

For its part, China's justification of its hardhanded crackdown in the north-western province of Xinjiang as a bid to counter jihadism and nationalism among, Uighurs, a Turkic people, is weakened by its reluctance to be equally firm in countering militants in Pakistan.

The problem for both countries is that 1 + 1 = 2, whichever way one looks at it.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan has repeatedly put Saeed under house arrest, only to release him on court orders that asserted that there was insufficient evidence against him.

Recent remarks by several senior Pakistani officials suggest that Pakistan and China are groping with how to deal with globally designated Pakistani militant Hafiz Saeed as the South Asian nation gears up for elections expected in July and risks being next month put on an international terrorism finance and money laundering watchlist. The Pakistani-Chinese dilemma stems from a China-backed Pakistani refusal to fully implement designations of Hafiz Saeed by the United Nations Security Council and the US Treasury. The United States has put a $10 million bounty the head of Saeed, who is believed to lead the outlawed militant group, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as well as Jamaat-ud-Dawa, an alleged LeT front, and is suspected of being the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which 166 people were killed. Pakistan has repeatedly put Saeed under house arrest, only to release him on court orders that asserted that there was insufficient evidence against him. The government has half-heartedly sought to seize Jamaat-ud-Dawa assets and prevent it from collecting donations through its charity arm, Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation. Pakistan's election commission has so far refused to register a political party established by Jamaat-ud-Dawa in advance of the elections. The refusal would not prevent party members from running as independents. To reduce focus on Saeed, a senior aide to Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that Chinese President Xi Jinping had asked Abbasi during a meeting on the sidelines of last month's Boao Forum to explore relocating Saeed to a Middle Eastern country. "At a 35-minute meeting, at least 10 minutes of the discussion dealt with Saeed. The Chinese President was keen on pressing the Prime Minister to find an early solution to keep Saeed away from the limelight," a leading Indian daily quoted the aide as saying. In separate remarks, Major General Asif Ghafoor - a spokesman for Pakistan's ISI - told another Indian newspaper that "anything (Saeed) does, other than violence, is good. There is a process in Pakistan for anyone to participate in politics. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has its rules and laws. If he (Saeed) fulfills all those requirements that is for the ECP to decide." The divergent proposals to either remove Saeed from the limelight or mainstream him by integrating him into the political process are unlikely to satisfy either the United Nations or the United States. They are also unlikely to prevent the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global financial watchdog that monitors the funding of political violence and money laundering, from next month putting Pakistan on its watchlist. The FATF action could negatively affect the Pakistan economy. Pakistan risks downgrading by multilateral lenders such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as well as by international credit rating agencies Moody's, Standard & Poor's and Fitch. Xi's suggestion to Abbasi reflects Chinese ambivalence towards those Pakistani militants that both Islamabad and Beijing see as useful tools to keep India off balance. China protected Saeed from UN designation prior to the Mumbai attacks and has since prevented another Pakistani militant, Masood Azhar, from being designated by the Security Council. At the same time, China refrained in February from shielding Pakistan from censorship by FATF. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson nonetheless argued at the time that "in recent years, Pakistan has made important progress in actively strengthening financial regulations to combat terror financing... China highly recognises that and hopes all relevant parties of the international community could arrive at an objective and fair conclusion on that." Implementing Xi's proposal to remove Saeed from the limelight is easier said than done. It's hard to see what Middle Eastern nation would risk international criticism by granting Saeed asylum without tacit approval by the United States and/or the United Nations. By the same token, its unlikely that either would agree to the scheme. Similarly, neither the UN nor the United States are likely to be persuaded by a belief within the Pakistani military that the best way of blunting militancy that has over the decades been woven into the fabric of significant segments of the armed forces, intelligence and society is by mainstreaming militants and integrating them into the political process. Ousted Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif kicked up a storm when he earlier this month appeared to confirm the pervasiveness of militancy by suggesting that the perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks had been supported by Pakistan. "Militant organisations are active. Call them non-state actors, should we allow them to cross the border and kill 150 people in Mumbai? Explain it to me. Why can't we complete the trial? It's unacceptable. This is exactly what we are struggling for. President Putin has said it. President Xi has said it. We could have already been at seven per cent growth (in GDP), but we are not," Sharif said. The remarks by the Pakistani officials suggest that both Pakistan and China are attempting to square circles. Pakistan needs to be seen as cracking down on militancy while considering the domestic influence of ultra-conservative religious groups as well as seemingly misguided beliefs that support for anti-Indian militants serves its purpose. For its part, China's justification of its hardhanded crackdown in the north-western province of Xinjiang as a bid to counter jihadism and nationalism among, Uighurs, a Turkic people, is weakened by its reluctance to be equally firm in countering militants in Pakistan. The problem for both countries is that 1 + 1 = 2, whichever way one looks at it. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: What to do with Hafiz Saeed? Pakistan and China grope for ambiguity

According to the Indo-Pak Conflict Monitor, which tracks ceasefire violations on both sides of the border, India has already reported — till February 2018 — 633 ceasefire violations this year.&nbsp

Pakistan on the other hand has reported — till March 22, 2018 — 690 ceasefire violations.&nbsp

To put that in perspective, in 2017, India reported 771 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, the International Border, and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

And only 228 in 2016.&nbsp

But that of course was the year of the "surgical strikes", when Indian soldiers crossed the border and hit what the army referred to as a "terror launchpad".&nbsp

Ever since then, there has been a massive surge in ceasefire violations along the border.&nbsp

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was signed in 2003. The nitty gritty of the agreement was worked out by the DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two armies.&nbsp

Some of the reasons stated for the accord at the time sound rather prosaic now — it would for example allow the two armies to move stores. (There was of course also the fact that it would allow them to evacuate their wounded.)&nbsp

But the accord itself was pretty significant considering the two countries had come close to war in 2001 after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament, which the country alleged was launched from Pakistan.&nbsp

The ceasefire held for 10 years.&nbsp

Then in January 2013 India alleged that a Pakistani Border Action Team crossed over, ambushed an Indian Army patrol, and killed two soldiers.&nbsp

One of the two soldiers was beheaded.&nbsp

Pakistan denied the claim but the allegation caused massive outrage in India.&nbsp

Salman Khurshid, the then minister for External Affairs, vowed a “proportionate” response.&nbsp

The never-ending cycle of tit-for-tat that ensued has never stopped.&nbsp

And by now of course, with a ceasefire violation reported virtually every day along the border, it is fair to say that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan exists only on paper. For all practical purposes, the agreement is as good as dead.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

2018 is already well on its to witnessing the highest number of ceasefire violations along the India-Pakistan border. The agreement, signed in 2003, exists only on paper

According to the Indo-Pak Conflict Monitor, which tracks ceasefire violations on both sides of the border, India has already reported — till February 2018 — 633 ceasefire violations this year. Pakistan on the other hand has reported — till March 22, 2018 — 690 ceasefire violations. To put that in perspective, in 2017, India reported 771 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, the International Border, and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir. And only 228 in 2016. But that of course was the year of the "surgical strikes", when Indian soldiers crossed the border and hit what the army referred to as a "terror launchpad". Ever since then, there has been a massive surge in ceasefire violations along the border. The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was signed in 2003. The nitty gritty of the agreement was worked out by the DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two armies. Some of the reasons stated for the accord at the time sound rather prosaic now — it would for example allow the two armies to move stores. (There was of course also the fact that it would allow them to evacuate their wounded.) But the accord itself was pretty significant considering the two countries had come close to war in 2001 after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament, which the country alleged was launched from Pakistan. The ceasefire held for 10 years. Then in January 2013 India alleged that a Pakistani Border Action Team crossed over, ambushed an Indian Army patrol, and killed two soldiers. One of the two soldiers was beheaded. Pakistan denied the claim but the allegation caused massive outrage in India. Salman Khurshid, the then minister for External Affairs, vowed a “proportionate” response. The never-ending cycle of tit-for-tat that ensued has never stopped. And by now of course, with a ceasefire violation reported virtually every day along the border, it is fair to say that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan exists only on paper. For all practical purposes, the agreement is as good as dead.

Analysis: Ceasefire Agreement between India and Pakistan is as good as dead

England captain Joe Root won the toss and chose to bat in the first test against Pakistan in the overcast conditions at the Lord's in London on Thursday.&nbsp;

Speaking after the toss, Root said, "It probably looks on the surface like bowling conditions but it`s very dry underneath, and it looks like it`s already starting to crack and it may play into our favour." 
&nbsp; 
In the playing XI, England awarded a test debut to 20-year-old off-spinner Dom Bess, who was preferred over Chris Woakes.

Pakistan, on the other hand, opted for Hasan Ali as their fourth seamer.

Teams

England - Alastair Cook, Mark Stoneman, Joe Root (captain), Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Mark Wood, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, James Anderson

Pakistan - Azhar Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Haris Sohail, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain and wicketkeeper), Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Abbas&nbsp;

England awarded a test debut to 20-year-old off-spinner Dom Bess

England captain Joe Root won the toss and chose to bat in the first test against Pakistan in the overcast conditions at the Lord's in London on Thursday. Speaking after the toss, Root said, "It probably looks on the surface like bowling conditions but it`s very dry underneath, and it looks like it`s already starting to crack and it may play into our favour." In the playing XI, England awarded a test debut to 20-year-old off-spinner Dom Bess, who was preferred over Chris Woakes. Pakistan, on the other hand, opted for Hasan Ali as their fourth seamer. Teams England - Alastair Cook, Mark Stoneman, Joe Root (captain), Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Mark Wood, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, James Anderson Pakistan - Azhar Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Haris Sohail, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain and wicketkeeper), Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Abbas

1st Test: England win toss, opt to bat against Pakistan

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry on Wednesday said former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was "playing politics" in courts and would pay a heavy price one day.

His remarks came after Sharif said in the Avenfield reference trial at the Islamabad accountability court earlier today that the case was filed against him as a "reciprocal punishment for taking legal action against (former president Pervez) Musharraf despite being warned not to do so."

While recording his statement in Avenfield reference, Nawaz said an intelligence agency officials had told him to "resign or he would be sent on an extended leave", The Nation reported.

Reacting to the statements, Chaudhry said, "I heard what he said carefully and it is a political statement, something that he says during his rallies and the question remains regarding what is his legal stance. Nawaz was asked only two questions regarding the Avenfield properties and the money in the accounts and he neither spoke about the money trail nor the source of the money. It would have been better for Nawaz to have fought a legal case legally and kept politics out."

He claimed that Sharif's "conspiracy theory" will not influence the decision of the court.

On Monday, Sharif reiterated that he had never owned properties in London.

The responses came in reply to the 128 questions put to him. The questionnaire has multiple about four apartments in Park Lane, Avenfield, London, sale proceed of Gulf Steel Mills (GSM), shares of Ahli Steel Mills, investment with Qatari royals, clearance of GSM's liabilities, litigation with Al-Tawfeek Investment and offshore companies Nielson and Nescoll.

During the questioning session with the judge Mohammad Bashir, the deposed prime minister accused the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) for reporting selective evidence and portions from the witnesses' statements.

Sharif also criticised the inclusion of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Military Intelligence (MI) in the JIT, claiming that the JIT members are biased.

The former prime minister could respond to 55 of the 128 questions. The judge adjourned the proceedings till May 22.

The Pakistan Supreme Court, on July 28, disqualified Sharif from holding the office of the prime minister and asked the National Accountability Bureau to file references against the Sharif family in connection with corruption cases against them.

On the orders of the country's Supreme Court, the JIT was formed last year to probe the allegations on the Sharif family.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Supreme Court, on July 28, disqualified Sharif from holding the office of the prime minister and asked the National Accountability Bureau to file references against the Sharif family in connection with corruption cases

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry on Wednesday said former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was "playing politics" in courts and would pay a heavy price one day. His remarks came after Sharif said in the Avenfield reference trial at the Islamabad accountability court earlier today that the case was filed against him as a "reciprocal punishment for taking legal action against (former president Pervez) Musharraf despite being warned not to do so." While recording his statement in Avenfield reference, Nawaz said an intelligence agency officials had told him to "resign or he would be sent on an extended leave", The Nation reported. Reacting to the statements, Chaudhry said, "I heard what he said carefully and it is a political statement, something that he says during his rallies and the question remains regarding what is his legal stance. Nawaz was asked only two questions regarding the Avenfield properties and the money in the accounts and he neither spoke about the money trail nor the source of the money. It would have been better for Nawaz to have fought a legal case legally and kept politics out." He claimed that Sharif's "conspiracy theory" will not influence the decision of the court. On Monday, Sharif reiterated that he had never owned properties in London. The responses came in reply to the 128 questions put to him. The questionnaire has multiple about four apartments in Park Lane, Avenfield, London, sale proceed of Gulf Steel Mills (GSM), shares of Ahli Steel Mills, investment with Qatari royals, clearance of GSM's liabilities, litigation with Al-Tawfeek Investment and offshore companies Nielson and Nescoll. During the questioning session with the judge Mohammad Bashir, the deposed prime minister accused the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) for reporting selective evidence and portions from the witnesses' statements. Sharif also criticised the inclusion of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Military Intelligence (MI) in the JIT, claiming that the JIT members are biased. The former prime minister could respond to 55 of the 128 questions. The judge adjourned the proceedings till May 22. The Pakistan Supreme Court, on July 28, disqualified Sharif from holding the office of the prime minister and asked the National Accountability Bureau to file references against the Sharif family in connection with corruption cases against them. On the orders of the country's Supreme Court, the JIT was formed last year to probe the allegations on the Sharif family.

Nawaz Sharif will pay price for 'playing politics' in courts: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf

For a long time, India and many across the world have been saying that the Pakistan army that has been calling the shots in and not the civilian leadership. For the first time, documentary proof has shown, how Rawalpindi has been behind Pakistan's foreign policy.

Explosive revelations from Hillary Clinton's mails have shown how the Pakistani Army has been influencing Pakistani foreign policy.

Former Pakistani foreign minister Heena Rabbani Khar was reportedly under pressure from the Pakistani Army not to attend a conference in Bonn on Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The emails say:

"She said that during the defense committee meeting yesterday, the military had pressed hard for her to announce that she would not go to Bonn, but that she had been able to prevent that . But she was not sure she could sustain that argument in the days ahead.”

Ultimately, Pakistan withdrew from participation in the Bonn Conference due to a NATO airstrike in its territory on November 26, 2011 that resulted in the deaths of 26 Pakistani soldiers.

The emails confirmed&nbsp;how the military was responsible for Pakistan not participating in the Bonn conference.

“The Pakistani defence committee concluded its emergency meeting, called to discuss response to the November 27th Mohmand border incident. The MFA desk officer called to inform us of two decisions."

1st: Pakistan will not attend the Bonn conference

2nd: Foreign minister Khar urgently requests to speak with the secretary to explain that decision, as soon as possible.&nbsp;Khar is travelling by car to Lahore. Her cell phone number is... ”

The German ambassador in Pakistan had phoned the then Pakistan foreign minister and asked her to take part in the meet. The 5th December 2011 International Conference on Afghanistan was an important meet. Delegations from 85 states, 15 international organizations and the United Nations attended the conference.

The US did apologize for the 26 November 2011 incident that killed Pakistani soldiers. Secretary Clinton had called on foreign minister Khar and had said sorry.&nbsp;

Hillary said that the US is committed to working closely with "Pakistan and Afghanistan to prevent this from ever happening again”.&nbsp;

The foreign minister of Pakistan informed that ground supply lines into Afghanistan are opening and Islamabad won't charge any transit fee in the larger interest of peace and security in Afghanistan.

Closing ground supplies the been the best possible blackmailing technique of Islamabad to trouble US in Afghanistan.

The mails also show how Pakistan's permanent representative Maleeha Lodhi has been acting as conduit between the then secretary of state Hillary Clinton and the then Pakistani army chief Kayani.

In a mail it is written:

"I got a call from Maleeha Lodhi (former Pakistan Ambassador to US and UK) who is in London. She gave a message from Kayani."

The Pakistani foreign minister Khar had even messaged the then secretary of state Hillary Clinton after Malala was shot. Khar had appreciated Clinton’s strong statement regarding Malala Yousafzai.

The mails clearly show what is known to the world for a long time. It's Rawalpindi that has been calling the shots and not Islamabad when it comes to Pakistan's foreign policy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Closing ground supplies the been the best possible blackmailing technique of Islamabad to trouble US in Afghanistan.

For a long time, India and many across the world have been saying that the Pakistan army that has been calling the shots in and not the civilian leadership. For the first time, documentary proof has shown, how Rawalpindi has been behind Pakistan's foreign policy. Explosive revelations from Hillary Clinton's mails have shown how the Pakistani Army has been influencing Pakistani foreign policy. Former Pakistani foreign minister Heena Rabbani Khar was reportedly under pressure from the Pakistani Army not to attend a conference in Bonn on Afghanistan. The emails say: "She said that during the defense committee meeting yesterday, the military had pressed hard for her to announce that she would not go to Bonn, but that she had been able to prevent that . But she was not sure she could sustain that argument in the days ahead.” Ultimately, Pakistan withdrew from participation in the Bonn Conference due to a NATO airstrike in its territory on November 26, 2011 that resulted in the deaths of 26 Pakistani soldiers. The emails confirmed how the military was responsible for Pakistan not participating in the Bonn conference. “The Pakistani defence committee concluded its emergency meeting, called to discuss response to the November 27th Mohmand border incident. The MFA desk officer called to inform us of two decisions." 1st: Pakistan will not attend the Bonn conference 2nd: Foreign minister Khar urgently requests to speak with the secretary to explain that decision, as soon as possible. Khar is travelling by car to Lahore. Her cell phone number is... ” The German ambassador in Pakistan had phoned the then Pakistan foreign minister and asked her to take part in the meet. The 5th December 2011 International Conference on Afghanistan was an important meet. Delegations from 85 states, 15 international organizations and the United Nations attended the conference. The US did apologize for the 26 November 2011 incident that killed Pakistani soldiers. Secretary Clinton had called on foreign minister Khar and had said sorry. Hillary said that the US is committed to working closely with "Pakistan and Afghanistan to prevent this from ever happening again”. The foreign minister of Pakistan informed that ground supply lines into Afghanistan are opening and Islamabad won't charge any transit fee in the larger interest of peace and security in Afghanistan. Closing ground supplies the been the best possible blackmailing technique of Islamabad to trouble US in Afghanistan. The mails also show how Pakistan's permanent representative Maleeha Lodhi has been acting as conduit between the then secretary of state Hillary Clinton and the then Pakistani army chief Kayani. In a mail it is written: "I got a call from Maleeha Lodhi (former Pakistan Ambassador to US and UK) who is in London. She gave a message from Kayani." The Pakistani foreign minister Khar had even messaged the then secretary of state Hillary Clinton after Malala was shot. Khar had appreciated Clinton’s strong statement regarding Malala Yousafzai. The mails clearly show what is known to the world for a long time. It's Rawalpindi that has been calling the shots and not Islamabad when it comes to Pakistan's foreign policy.

Watch: Hillary Clinton's mail trail shows how Pak Army influences foreign policy

One more civilian has been reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector.&nbsp;

Pakistani troops on Tuesday resorted to unprovoked firing along the Line of Control in Arnia sector, Jammu and Kashmir. The residents of the sector were migrated to safer places on Monday.

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One more civilian has been injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Arnia Sector. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999105547004796930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, an 8 month-old infant was killed during the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keri Battal area of Akhnoor near the Line of Control yesterday.&nbsp;

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I have seen it & the entire world has seen it. It's saddening. Our soldiers are not sitting silent, befitting reply will be given to them: Hansraj Ahir, MoS Home Affairs on 8 month old infant killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vx4lVtEpRg">pic.twitter.com/Vx4lVtEpRg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998795192802000896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the month, Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in RS Puraand Arnia sectors. A total of five people were killed on May 18 including one Border Security Force (BSF) jawan and four civilians.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Earlier in the month, Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in RS Puraand Arnia sectors

One more civilian has been reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector. Pakistani troops on Tuesday resorted to unprovoked firing along the Line of Control in Arnia sector, Jammu and Kashmir. The residents of the sector were migrated to safer places on Monday. One more civilian has been injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Arnia Sector. #JammuAndKashmir — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × According to reports, an 8 month-old infant was killed during the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keri Battal area of Akhnoor near the Line of Control yesterday. I have seen it & the entire world has seen it. It's saddening. Our soldiers are not sitting silent, befitting reply will be given to them: Hansraj Ahir, MoS Home Affairs on 8 month old infant killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/Vx4lVtEpRg — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2018 × Earlier in the month, Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in RS Puraand Arnia sectors. A total of five people were killed on May 18 including one Border Security Force (BSF) jawan and four civilians. (With inputs from ANI)

One more injured in ceasefire violation in J&K's Arnia sector

Pakistan should crackdown on terrorist safe havens and instigators of terrorist activities in its own country, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said today.

The US and others have long complained that Pakistan provides safe haven to the Afghan Taliban and their allies, the Haqqani network, allowing them to carry out cross-border attacks in Afghanistan.

Pakistan denies these allegations but President Donald Trump has escalated the criticism against Islamabad since he took office.

"As part of the new South Asia strategy, we have been clear with Pakistan that ensuring reconciliation, peace, and security in Afghanistan in large part depends on Pakistan's willingness to crack down on terrorist safe havens and instigators of terrorist activity in its own country," Pompeo said in his testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Pompeo said that across the world, the US has encouraged nations to assume greater responsibilities for maintaining their own and shared security and stability.

"In the face of a resurgent Russia, and in response to our urging, many NATO members are newly meeting their commitments to funding deterrence and defense initiatives," he said.

President Trump's call to leaders of Middle East countries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, rallied leaders of those nations to more aggressively combat terrorism inside their own borders and to counter violent extremism abroad, Pompeo said.

Pakistan denies these allegations but President Donald Trump has escalated the criticism against Islamabad since he took office.

Pakistan should crackdown on terrorist safe havens and instigators of terrorist activities in its own country, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said today. The US and others have long complained that Pakistan provides safe haven to the Afghan Taliban and their allies, the Haqqani network, allowing them to carry out cross-border attacks in Afghanistan. Pakistan denies these allegations but President Donald Trump has escalated the criticism against Islamabad since he took office. "As part of the new South Asia strategy, we have been clear with Pakistan that ensuring reconciliation, peace, and security in Afghanistan in large part depends on Pakistan's willingness to crack down on terrorist safe havens and instigators of terrorist activity in its own country," Pompeo said in his testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Pompeo said that across the world, the US has encouraged nations to assume greater responsibilities for maintaining their own and shared security and stability. "In the face of a resurgent Russia, and in response to our urging, many NATO members are newly meeting their commitments to funding deterrence and defense initiatives," he said. President Trump's call to leaders of Middle East countries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, rallied leaders of those nations to more aggressively combat terrorism inside their own borders and to counter violent extremism abroad, Pompeo said.

Pompeo seeks crackdown on terrorist safe havens in Pakistan

The World Bank has said it failed to arrive at an agreement with a visiting Pakistani delegation on a way forward to address Islamabad's concerns regarding the Indus Waters Treaty with India.

Over two days -- Monday and yesterday -- a high-powered Pakistani delegation led by Attorney General, Ashtar Ausaf Ali, met with Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank Chief Executive Officer, and the regional management for South Asia.

During the meetings, held at Pakistan's request to discuss issues regarding the Indus Waters Treaty and opportunities within the treaty to seek an amicable resolution, "several procedural options" for resolving the disagreement over the interpretation of the treaty's provisions were discussed, the bank said.

"While an agreement on the way forward was not reached at the conclusion of the meetings, the World Bank will continue to work with both countries to resolve the issues in an amicable manner and in line with the treaty provisions," the Bank said in a statement at the end of the talks.&nbsp;

"The delegation of the Government of Pakistan also shared with the Bank their concerns about the recent inauguration of the Kishanganga hydroelectric plant," the statement said.&nbsp;

Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the 330 MW Kishanganga hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan had protested the inauguration claiming that the project on a river flowing into Pakistan will disrupt water supplies.

The Embassy of Pakistan here did not immediately respond to questions related to the World Bank meeting.

"The Indus Waters Treaty is a profoundly important international agreement that provides an essential cooperative framework for India and Pakistan to address current and future challenges of effective water management to meet human needs and achieve development goals," the Bank said.

As a signatory to the Treaty, the World Bank's role is limited and procedural, it noted.&nbsp;

"In particular, the role in relation to differences and disputes is limited to the designation of people to fulfil certain roles when requested by either or both parties," the bank said.

At the conclusion of the talks, the World Bank said it remained committed to "act in good faith and with complete impartiality and transparency" in fulfilling its responsibilities under the treaty while continuing to assist the two countries.

The World Bank did not respond to question if it approached India on the Pakistani allegations.&nbsp;

Islamabad had been raising objections over the design of the 330 MW Kishanganga hydroelectric project, saying it is not in line with the criteria laid down under the Indus Waters Treaty between the two countries. But, India says the project design was well within parameters of the treaty.

The project, located at Bandipore in North Kashmir, envisages diversion of water of Kishan Ganga river to underground powerhouse through a 23.25-km-long headrace tunnel to generate 1713 million units per annum.

The Kishanganga project was started in 2007 but on May 17, 2010, Pakistan moved for international arbitration against India under the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty.

The Hague-based International Court of Arbitration allowed India in 2013 to go ahead with construction of the project in North Kashmir and upheld India's right under the bilateral Indus Waters Treaty to divert waters from the Kishanganga for power generation in Jammu and Kashmir.

The international court, however, decided that India shall release a minimum flow of nine cubic metres per second into the Kishanganga river (known as Neelam in Pakistan) at all times to maintain environmental flows.

Pakistan is building a 969 MW Neelum-Jhelum hydroelectric project downstream.&nbsp;

Pakistan is building a 969 MW Neelum-Jhelum hydroelectric project downstream

The World Bank has said it failed to arrive at an agreement with a visiting Pakistani delegation on a way forward to address Islamabad's concerns regarding the Indus Waters Treaty with India. Over two days -- Monday and yesterday -- a high-powered Pakistani delegation led by Attorney General, Ashtar Ausaf Ali, met with Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank Chief Executive Officer, and the regional management for South Asia. During the meetings, held at Pakistan's request to discuss issues regarding the Indus Waters Treaty and opportunities within the treaty to seek an amicable resolution, "several procedural options" for resolving the disagreement over the interpretation of the treaty's provisions were discussed, the bank said. "While an agreement on the way forward was not reached at the conclusion of the meetings, the World Bank will continue to work with both countries to resolve the issues in an amicable manner and in line with the treaty provisions," the Bank said in a statement at the end of the talks. "The delegation of the Government of Pakistan also shared with the Bank their concerns about the recent inauguration of the Kishanganga hydroelectric plant," the statement said. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the 330 MW Kishanganga hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan had protested the inauguration claiming that the project on a river flowing into Pakistan will disrupt water supplies. The Embassy of Pakistan here did not immediately respond to questions related to the World Bank meeting. "The Indus Waters Treaty is a profoundly important international agreement that provides an essential cooperative framework for India and Pakistan to address current and future challenges of effective water management to meet human needs and achieve development goals," the Bank said. As a signatory to the Treaty, the World Bank's role is limited and procedural, it noted. "In particular, the role in relation to differences and disputes is limited to the designation of people to fulfil certain roles when requested by either or both parties," the bank said. At the conclusion of the talks, the World Bank said it remained committed to "act in good faith and with complete impartiality and transparency" in fulfilling its responsibilities under the treaty while continuing to assist the two countries. The World Bank did not respond to question if it approached India on the Pakistani allegations. Islamabad had been raising objections over the design of the 330 MW Kishanganga hydroelectric project, saying it is not in line with the criteria laid down under the Indus Waters Treaty between the two countries. But, India says the project design was well within parameters of the treaty. The project, located at Bandipore in North Kashmir, envisages diversion of water of Kishan Ganga river to underground powerhouse through a 23.25-km-long headrace tunnel to generate 1713 million units per annum. The Kishanganga project was started in 2007 but on May 17, 2010, Pakistan moved for international arbitration against India under the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty. The Hague-based International Court of Arbitration allowed India in 2013 to go ahead with construction of the project in North Kashmir and upheld India's right under the bilateral Indus Waters Treaty to divert waters from the Kishanganga for power generation in Jammu and Kashmir. The international court, however, decided that India shall release a minimum flow of nine cubic metres per second into the Kishanganga river (known as Neelam in Pakistan) at all times to maintain environmental flows. Pakistan is building a 969 MW Neelum-Jhelum hydroelectric project downstream.

No agreement with Pak on resolving Indus Waters dispute: World Bank

Pakistan's minister for privatisation Daniyal Aziz was slapped by a senior leader of Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf during a TV talk show.

A 36-second clip posted on Geo News website showed Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leader Naeemul Haque and Aziz mudslinging each other's party in the Aapas Ki Baat programme yesterday.&nbsp

Then all of a sudden Aziz, in an aggressive tone, addressed Haque and said: "Am I afraid of you... Afraid of thieves like you".

Haque lost his temper when Aziz called him a "thief".

Aziz kept his cool after being slapped and just said: "How dare you slap me?" At this Haque retorted: "How dare you call me a thief?"

Pakistan's former ousted prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz supemo Nawaz Sharif said that "it showed culture of PTI".

This is not the first time Haque is getting involved in such trouble. In 2011, during a TV show, he threw a glass of water on Pakistan Peoples Party leader Jameel Soomro.

This is not the first time Haque is getting involved in such trouble.

Pakistan's minister for privatisation Daniyal Aziz was slapped by a senior leader of Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf during a TV talk show. A 36-second clip posted on Geo News website showed Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leader Naeemul Haque and Aziz mudslinging each other's party in the Aapas Ki Baat programme yesterday. Then all of a sudden Aziz, in an aggressive tone, addressed Haque and said: "Am I afraid of you... Afraid of thieves like you". Haque lost his temper when Aziz called him a "thief". Aziz kept his cool after being slapped and just said: "How dare you slap me?" At this Haque retorted: "How dare you call me a thief?" Pakistan's former ousted prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz supemo Nawaz Sharif said that "it showed culture of PTI". This is not the first time Haque is getting involved in such trouble. In 2011, during a TV show, he threw a glass of water on Pakistan Peoples Party leader Jameel Soomro.

Imran's Khan's party member slaps Pakistan minister

According to reports, Pakistan continued with heavy shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Hiranagar sector on Wednesday morning which killed one and wounded two.&nbsp;

Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-more-injured-in-ceasefire-violation-in-jks-arnia-sector-139011">One more civilian was reported injured</a> in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector.&nbsp;

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One dead, two injured after heavy shelling from Pakistan in Kathua's Hiranagar sector. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/AoX19bBEHN">pic.twitter.com/AoX19bBEHN</a>
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Pakistani troops on Tuesday resorted to unprovoked firing along the Line of Control in Arnia sector, Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

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Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continues in Jammu district's RS Pora. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/L36fQPkwSe">pic.twitter.com/L36fQPkwSe</a>
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According to reports, an 8 month-old infant was killed during the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keri Battal area of Akhnoor near the Line of Control yesterday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning

According to reports, Pakistan continued with heavy shelling in Jammu and Kashmir's Hiranagar sector on Wednesday morning which killed one and wounded two. Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continued in Jammu's RS Pora district on Wednesday morning. One more civilian was reported injured in Tuesday's ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia sector. One dead, two injured after heavy shelling from Pakistan in Kathua's Hiranagar sector. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/AoX19bBEHN — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Pakistani troops on Tuesday resorted to unprovoked firing along the Line of Control in Arnia sector, Jammu and Kashmir. Ceasefire violation by Pakistan continues in Jammu district's RS Pora. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/L36fQPkwSe — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × According to reports, an 8 month-old infant was killed during the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keri Battal area of Akhnoor near the Line of Control yesterday. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: Heavy shelling by Pakistan in Hiranagar kills one, two wounded

A 70-year-old woman was among seven persons injured as Pakistani Rangers opened fire and lobbed mortars along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir early on Tuesday, triggering panic among border residents and forcing many to take shelter in government-run camps.

“The cross-border firing and shelling continued unabated and has spread to all sectors from Akhnoor to Samba along the IB,” a senior BSF official told PTI. &nbsp;He said BSF troops guarding the border retaliated effectively and exchanges between the two sides were continuing when reports last came in.

Inspector General of Police, Jammu, S D Singh Jamwal said one person was injured in the fresh firing in the worst-hit Arnia sector of Jammu district.

Madan Lal Bhagat, a resident of Pindi Charkan village of Arnia, was hit by splinters in the abdomen and foot after a mortar shell hit his house in the early hours today, the officials said adding he has been admitted to the Government Medical College.

Police said a 70-year-old woman identified as Kaushalya Devi was also injured in the firing.

Jamwal said police parties have been deployed and are helping people shift to safer places from affected areas.

Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Hemant Kumar Sharma said relief camps have been activated at safer places all along the IB especially in R S Pura and Arnia sectors which witnessed heavy mortar shelling by Pakistan over the past two days.

Hundreds of people have reported at these camps set up in educational institutions and other government buildings, Sharma said.

He said adequate facilities have been made available at these camps so that the displaced people do not face any problem.

He said all schools vulnerable to Pakistani shelling have been closed along the IB as a precautionary measure.

The latest round of cross-border shelling started on May 15 when BSF foiled two infiltration attempts by Pakistan-backed infiltrators in Samba sector of Jammu.

So far seven persons including two BSF jawans and an infant have been killed and 18 others injured in the latest ceasefire violation by Pakistan.

The state has witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the LoC this year. Over 700 such incidents have been reported this year, which have left a total of 39 people, including 18 security personnel, dead and scores injured.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the security forces have a free hand to respond as they deem fit if the neighbouring country continued the offensive. 
 
Speaking at the Border Security Force`s (BSF) 16th investiture ceremony function here, Singh said "We have a neighbour that does not want to correct itself. 
 
"Yet, we must not fire the first bullet at our neighbour. But if it opens fire, you (security forces) have to decide what action to take. Then no one will ask why you did so."

(With inputs from PTI)

Inspector General of Police, Jammu, S D Singh Jamwal said one person was injured in the fresh firing in the worst-hit Arnia sector of Jammu district.

A 70-year-old woman was among seven persons injured as Pakistani Rangers opened fire and lobbed mortars along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir early on Tuesday, triggering panic among border residents and forcing many to take shelter in government-run camps. “The cross-border firing and shelling continued unabated and has spread to all sectors from Akhnoor to Samba along the IB,” a senior BSF official told PTI. He said BSF troops guarding the border retaliated effectively and exchanges between the two sides were continuing when reports last came in. Inspector General of Police, Jammu, S D Singh Jamwal said one person was injured in the fresh firing in the worst-hit Arnia sector of Jammu district. Madan Lal Bhagat, a resident of Pindi Charkan village of Arnia, was hit by splinters in the abdomen and foot after a mortar shell hit his house in the early hours today, the officials said adding he has been admitted to the Government Medical College. Police said a 70-year-old woman identified as Kaushalya Devi was also injured in the firing. Jamwal said police parties have been deployed and are helping people shift to safer places from affected areas. Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Hemant Kumar Sharma said relief camps have been activated at safer places all along the IB especially in R S Pura and Arnia sectors which witnessed heavy mortar shelling by Pakistan over the past two days. Hundreds of people have reported at these camps set up in educational institutions and other government buildings, Sharma said. He said adequate facilities have been made available at these camps so that the displaced people do not face any problem. He said all schools vulnerable to Pakistani shelling have been closed along the IB as a precautionary measure. The latest round of cross-border shelling started on May 15 when BSF foiled two infiltration attempts by Pakistan-backed infiltrators in Samba sector of Jammu. So far seven persons including two BSF jawans and an infant have been killed and 18 others injured in the latest ceasefire violation by Pakistan. The state has witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the LoC this year. Over 700 such incidents have been reported this year, which have left a total of 39 people, including 18 security personnel, dead and scores injured. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the security forces have a free hand to respond as they deem fit if the neighbouring country continued the offensive. Speaking at the Border Security Force`s (BSF) 16th investiture ceremony function here, Singh said "We have a neighbour that does not want to correct itself. "Yet, we must not fire the first bullet at our neighbour. But if it opens fire, you (security forces) have to decide what action to take. Then no one will ask why you did so." (With inputs from PTI)

Seven injured in heavy shelling by Pakistan along International Border

Pakistan has squandered the economic growth opportunity in the past because of political instability, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said, asserting that "tanks and missiles" alone cannot save a country.

Iqbal, who is also the Minister for Planning and Development, claimed that during the 90s then Indian finance minister Manmohan Singh borrowed economic reforms strategies from his Pakistani counterpart Sartaj Aziz and successfully implemented them in India, the Express Tribune Reported.

He said Bangladesh also successfully used the same strategies but Pakistan could not put its own plans to use as the decade was lost to political instability.

He was speaking at the inauguration of Pakistan National Centre for Cyber Security here yesterday.

"The first opportunity for Pakistan's economy to take off came in the 60s, the second in the 90s, and the third opportunity is knocking at the doors now, which must not be lost to instability like in the past. Enough is enough," he was quoted as saying by the daily.

He described peace, stability and continuity as critical for economic progress.

"We will have to think why many countries which were behind us are now far ahead. China's per capita income was far below Pakistan's but is now much higher. Similarly, Bangladesh's foreign reserves have reached $33 billion while we are at $18 billion. For how long, we will watch other countries overtake us,"&nbspthe minister said.

He said "tanks and missiles" alone could not save a country if it's not strong economically.&nbsp

He said while the Pakistani armed forces had "rendered great sacrifices, the successful fight against terrorism was possible also because of the availability of funds from the national budget."

"There was a time when terrorists had surrounded us but today the state has cornered them. If we squander this opportunity, the history and future generations will not forgive us,"&nbspAhsan added.

He said in 2013 Pakistan was using 2G wireless technology but the country would now be among the first users of the 5G technology in the world.

He said "tanks and missiles" alone could not save a country if it's not strong economically.

Pakistan has squandered the economic growth opportunity in the past because of political instability, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal has said, asserting that "tanks and missiles" alone cannot save a country. Iqbal, who is also the Minister for Planning and Development, claimed that during the 90s then Indian finance minister Manmohan Singh borrowed economic reforms strategies from his Pakistani counterpart Sartaj Aziz and successfully implemented them in India, the Express Tribune Reported. He said Bangladesh also successfully used the same strategies but Pakistan could not put its own plans to use as the decade was lost to political instability. He was speaking at the inauguration of Pakistan National Centre for Cyber Security here yesterday. "The first opportunity for Pakistan's economy to take off came in the 60s, the second in the 90s, and the third opportunity is knocking at the doors now, which must not be lost to instability like in the past. Enough is enough," he was quoted as saying by the daily. He described peace, stability and continuity as critical for economic progress. "We will have to think why many countries which were behind us are now far ahead. China's per capita income was far below Pakistan's but is now much higher. Similarly, Bangladesh's foreign reserves have reached $33 billion while we are at $18 billion. For how long, we will watch other countries overtake us,"&nbspthe minister said. He said "tanks and missiles" alone could not save a country if it's not strong economically. He said while the Pakistani armed forces had "rendered great sacrifices, the successful fight against terrorism was possible also because of the availability of funds from the national budget." "There was a time when terrorists had surrounded us but today the state has cornered them. If we squander this opportunity, the history and future generations will not forgive us,"&nbspAhsan added. He said in 2013 Pakistan was using 2G wireless technology but the country would now be among the first users of the 5G technology in the world.

Tanks and missiles alone can't save a country: Pakistan interior minister Ahsan Iqbal

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said that India will take any peace-seeking comment seriously. Sitharaman's statement came in the wake of Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment.&nbsp;

Bajwa, earlier this month, had come up with ways that would help Pakistan achieve peace and prosperity. He called for military cooperations with India.&nbsp;

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Any comment on wanting peace will definitely be taken seriously: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on if India will take Pakistan Army chief general Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment seriously <a href="https://t.co/OMB6EeUEos">pic.twitter.com/OMB6EeUEos</a>
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As per a report by UK-based think-tank Royal Unites Services Institute (RUSI), General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March.&nbsp;

After two weeks, General Bajwa reportedly said that he wanted peace and dialogue with India, "Only through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue a solution could be found for the disputes between the two countries", Bajwa was quoted by European think-tank European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS).

The article, published in the think-tank, also stated that New Delhi has been reluctant to meet&nbsp;Bajwa halfway with respect to his peace-seeking efforts.&nbsp;

An article published in a UK-based think-tank also stated that New Delhi has been reluctant to meet Bajwa halfway with respect to his peace-seeking efforts

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said that India will take any peace-seeking comment seriously. Sitharaman's statement came in the wake of Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment. Bajwa, earlier this month, had come up with ways that would help Pakistan achieve peace and prosperity. He called for military cooperations with India. Any comment on wanting peace will definitely be taken seriously: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on if India will take Pakistan Army chief general Qamar Javed Bajwa 'peace' comment seriously pic.twitter.com/OMB6EeUEos — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2018 × As per a report by UK-based think-tank Royal Unites Services Institute (RUSI), General Bajwa had recently invited Sanjay Vishwasrao, the Indian military attache, and his team to the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad in March. After two weeks, General Bajwa reportedly said that he wanted peace and dialogue with India, "Only through comprehensive and meaningful dialogue a solution could be found for the disputes between the two countries", Bajwa was quoted by European think-tank European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS). The article, published in the think-tank, also stated that New Delhi has been reluctant to meet Bajwa halfway with respect to his peace-seeking efforts.

Any comment on wanting peace will be taken seriously: Nirmala Sithraman on Pak Army chief's 'peace' efforts

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