Former captain Sourav Ganguly has described John Wright as his favourite coach who was more of a friend to him during the New Zealander's stint with the Indian team.

"My first overseas coach and my favourite coach so far," said Ganguly while talking about Wright, under whom India had reached the finals of the 2003 World Cup.

"I met him first time in Kent when Rahul (Dravid) came in and said he's our coach. I said, 'I'd love to work with him'. We have a great relationship, actually, we're genuine friends,'' <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-picks-his-favourites-for-semi-finals-in-icc-world-cup-2019-213479&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKx_Gq4-jiAhUKrI8KHb9zDdEQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2v_pNFrkAHZ9yOvSLXQWoF">Ganguly </a>said.

"We had a great world cup and he was responsible because there were some strong headed players in that side. As we grew together, we got better friends and he was more of a friend than a coach, he understood me and I understood him," said Ganguly.

In a video posted on the official Twitter handle of the Cricket World Cup, Ganguly and Wright -&nbsp;part of the commentary team - went down memory lane ahead of washout game between India and New Zealand at Trent Bridge Friday.

Wright, who was India's first foreign coach for five years from 2000 to 2005, said, "I always thought it was the greatest privilege to have the opportunity to work in India.

"I never expected it. It was a hard start, for both of us. You were a new captain and I was the foreign coach. You remember the good times but it was also tough times," he added.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-backs-shikhar-dhawan-to-shine-at-world-cup-210042&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKx_Gq4-jiAhUKrI8KHb9zDdEQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PugEqXK2gGl2FCR6Nf9JP">Ganguly </a>and Wright had guided India to some memorable performances in international cricket, including the unforgettable 2002 NatWest series final against England at Lord's, a home test series win against Australia, drawing a test series against Australia in Australia, winning a series against arch-rivals, Pakistan

Former captain Sourav Ganguly has described John Wright as his favourite coach who was more of a friend to him during the New Zealander's stint with the Indian team.

Former captain Sourav Ganguly has described John Wright as his favourite coach who was more of a friend to him during the New Zealander's stint with the Indian team. "My first overseas coach and my favourite coach so far," said Ganguly while talking about Wright, under whom India had reached the finals of the 2003 World Cup. "I met him first time in Kent when Rahul (Dravid) came in and said he's our coach. I said, 'I'd love to work with him'. We have a great relationship, actually, we're genuine friends,'' Ganguly said. "We had a great world cup and he was responsible because there were some strong headed players in that side. As we grew together, we got better friends and he was more of a friend than a coach, he understood me and I understood him," said Ganguly. In a video posted on the official Twitter handle of the Cricket World Cup, Ganguly and Wright - part of the commentary team - went down memory lane ahead of washout game between India and New Zealand at Trent Bridge Friday. Wright, who was India's first foreign coach for five years from 2000 to 2005, said, "I always thought it was the greatest privilege to have the opportunity to work in India. "I never expected it. It was a hard start, for both of us. You were a new captain and I was the foreign coach. You remember the good times but it was also tough times," he added. Ganguly and Wright had guided India to some memorable performances in international cricket, including the unforgettable 2002 NatWest series final against England at Lord's, a home test series win against Australia, drawing a test series against Australia in Australia, winning a series against arch-rivals, Pakistan

John Wright is my favourite coach and a genuine friend: Sourav Ganguly

The bond between MS Dhoni and Karachi-born Mohammad Bashir aka 'Chacha Chicago' blossomed during the 2011 World Cup semifinal between India and<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/will-not-beg-india-to-play-cricket-with-us-says-pakistan-cricket-board-chief-227066"> Pakistan </a>and it has only grown stronger since then.

Such is the bond that Bashir has flown in to Manchester from Chicago (approximately 6000 km) for Sunday's high-octane Indo-Pak contest without a match ticket.

He knows that Dhoni will ensure that he is it at the Old Trafford when the first ball is bowled.

"I arrived here yesterday and saw that people are ready to pay as much as 800-900 pounds for a ticket. A return ticket from Chicago costs the same. Thanks to Dhoni, I don't have to struggle for a match ticket," the 63-year-old, who owns a restaurant in Chicago and is an American passport holder, told PTI.

The connection goes back to 2011.

Bashir was bowled over by Dhoni's benevolence when India's World Cup-winning captain went out of his way to arrange a ticket for him for the marquee clash in Mohali, a showdown for which most fans would pay an arm and a leg to watch in person.

Eight years later, the heartwarming story of Bashir and Dhoni continues.

It is not a surprise anymore that Bashir supports Dhoni's team over the country of his birth whenever the two sides clash.&nbsp;

Dhoni might not be easily accessible for even his teammates at times but has never disappointed Bashir.&nbsp;

"I don't call him as he is so busy. I keep in touch only through text messages. Long before I came here, Dhoni assured me of the ticket. He is a great human being. I can't think of anyone else doing what he has done for me since that 2011 game in Mohali,'' Bashir said.

"Imagine I get the ticket for free when most would pay a fortune for it. I have got a surprise gift for him this time and I hope to give it to him later today," said Bashir.

After arriving in Manchester, he checked into <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-high-pressure-india-game-a-must-win-for-pakistan-says-imam-ul-haq-226750">Pakistan's </a>team hotel where he met most of the squad members including captain <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">Sarfaraz Ahmed</a>, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Amir and Hassan Ali.

One of his selfies was with Shoaib Malik and Indian tennis star wife Sania Mirza, an Indo-Pak union just like him and his wife.

He checks into the Indian team hotel later on Friday.&nbsp;

His love for his homeland is understandable but the reason for his affinity towards India is his Hyderbadi wife, besides Dhoni of course.

His match-day uniform has both India and <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pakistan-must-bring-their-a-game-against-india-says-waqar-younis-226912">Pakistan </a>colours and Bashir calls himself an ambassador of peace.

While watching Indo-Pak games all-around the World, Bashir has made lifelong Indian friends and one them is the well-known superfan Sudhir, who mainly relies on funding from cricketers to support the team from stands. In fact, both are staying together in Manchester.

"Sudhir abhi apni body pe tri-colour paint karwane gaya hain (Sudhir has gone outside to get the Indian tri-colour painted on his body),'' Bashir said.

"I book the room and we stay together. Thanks to Allah, I am doing okay (financially) and that is the least I can do for a friend. I just gifted Sudhir a phone and it made him really happy. These are the little things in life that give you happiness," he added.

Bashir, who has overcome three heart attacks, carries as many 12 medicines when he is travelling. Before coming to the UK, he was in Saudi Arabia with his grandson during the holy month of Ramadan.

"It is not easy with my medical condition. Ab toh aisa lagta hain jab tak cricket chal rahi tab tak saasen chal rahi hain (May be I am alive only for cricket)," Bashir added.&nbsp;

No prizes for guessing that he is backing <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-will-be-in-a-plaster-hopefully-will-play-in-semi-finals-virat-kohli-227026">India </a>to maintain their unbeaten run over Pakistan on Sunday.

The bond between MS Dhoni and Karachi-born Mohammad Bashir aka 'Chacha Chicago' blossomed during the 2011 World Cup semifinal between India and Pakistan and it has only grown stronger since then.

The bond between MS Dhoni and Karachi-born Mohammad Bashir aka 'Chacha Chicago' blossomed during the 2011 World Cup semifinal between India and Pakistan and it has only grown stronger since then. Such is the bond that Bashir has flown in to Manchester from Chicago (approximately 6000 km) for Sunday's high-octane Indo-Pak contest without a match ticket. He knows that Dhoni will ensure that he is it at the Old Trafford when the first ball is bowled. "I arrived here yesterday and saw that people are ready to pay as much as 800-900 pounds for a ticket. A return ticket from Chicago costs the same. Thanks to Dhoni, I don't have to struggle for a match ticket," the 63-year-old, who owns a restaurant in Chicago and is an American passport holder, told PTI. The connection goes back to 2011. Bashir was bowled over by Dhoni's benevolence when India's World Cup-winning captain went out of his way to arrange a ticket for him for the marquee clash in Mohali, a showdown for which most fans would pay an arm and a leg to watch in person. Eight years later, the heartwarming story of Bashir and Dhoni continues. It is not a surprise anymore that Bashir supports Dhoni's team over the country of his birth whenever the two sides clash. Dhoni might not be easily accessible for even his teammates at times but has never disappointed Bashir. "I don't call him as he is so busy. I keep in touch only through text messages. Long before I came here, Dhoni assured me of the ticket. He is a great human being. I can't think of anyone else doing what he has done for me since that 2011 game in Mohali,'' Bashir said. "Imagine I get the ticket for free when most would pay a fortune for it. I have got a surprise gift for him this time and I hope to give it to him later today," said Bashir. After arriving in Manchester, he checked into Pakistan's team hotel where he met most of the squad members including captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Amir and Hassan Ali. One of his selfies was with Shoaib Malik and Indian tennis star wife Sania Mirza, an Indo-Pak union just like him and his wife. He checks into the Indian team hotel later on Friday. His love for his homeland is understandable but the reason for his affinity towards India is his Hyderbadi wife, besides Dhoni of course. His match-day uniform has both India and Pakistan colours and Bashir calls himself an ambassador of peace. While watching Indo-Pak games all-around the World, Bashir has made lifelong Indian friends and one them is the well-known superfan Sudhir, who mainly relies on funding from cricketers to support the team from stands. In fact, both are staying together in Manchester. "Sudhir abhi apni body pe tri-colour paint karwane gaya hain (Sudhir has gone outside to get the Indian tri-colour painted on his body),'' Bashir said. "I book the room and we stay together. Thanks to Allah, I am doing okay (financially) and that is the least I can do for a friend. I just gifted Sudhir a phone and it made him really happy. These are the little things in life that give you happiness," he added. Bashir, who has overcome three heart attacks, carries as many 12 medicines when he is travelling. Before coming to the UK, he was in Saudi Arabia with his grandson during the holy month of Ramadan. "It is not easy with my medical condition. Ab toh aisa lagta hain jab tak cricket chal rahi tab tak saasen chal rahi hain (May be I am alive only for cricket)," Bashir added. No prizes for guessing that he is backing India to maintain their unbeaten run over Pakistan on Sunday.

Pakistan-born India fan who receives match tickets from MS Dhoni arrives in Manchester

Pakistan opposition leader and former premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan for his late-night address to the nation, saying a commission should be set up to check his "mental health".&nbsp;

Khan in his address to the nation on Tuesday midnight announced to form a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-vows-to-go-after-thieves-responsible-for-pakistans-economic-woes-226438"> high-powered panel to probe the massive debt</a> piled up in the last 10 years during the regimes of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).&nbsp;

"A high-powered commission should be formed to assess the mental health of the prime minister" it has never happened in the country's history that any head of the state addressed the nation in the odd hours," the PML-N leader told a news conference here.&nbsp;

Abbasi, who served as the prime minister of Pakistan from August 2017 to May 2018, said it was prerogative of the government to set up a commission to probe any issue and he is ready to face any investigation.&nbsp;

Khan claimed that a massive Rs 24,000 billion debt has piled up in the last 10 years.&nbsp;

Pakistan opposition leader and former premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan for his late-night address to the nation, saying a commission should be set up to check his "mental health".

Pakistan opposition leader and former premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan for his late-night address to the nation, saying a commission should be set up to check his "mental health". Khan in his address to the nation on Tuesday midnight announced to form a high-powered panel to probe the massive debt piled up in the last 10 years during the regimes of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). "A high-powered commission should be formed to assess the mental health of the prime minister" it has never happened in the country's history that any head of the state addressed the nation in the odd hours," the PML-N leader told a news conference here. Abbasi, who served as the prime minister of Pakistan from August 2017 to May 2018, said it was prerogative of the government to set up a commission to probe any issue and he is ready to face any investigation. Khan claimed that a massive Rs 24,000 billion debt has piled up in the last 10 years.

Commission should be formed to assess PM Imran Khan's 'mental health': Former Pak premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

In a gesture to boycott Pakistan, PM Modi avoids Paksitan's airspace to reach bishkek to attend SCO Summit. Air India 1 reaches Bishkek via Oman and not over Pakistan.

PM Modi's Air India 1 boycotts Pakistan airspace, took Oman route for Bishkek

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq described the World Cup match against India on Sunday as a "huge-pressure game", which has also become a must-win one for his side following the loss to Australia here.

Despite some late defiance from captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and freewheeling number nine Wahab Riaz, Pakistan succumbed to a 41-run loss to Australia on Wednesday and are now in an increasingly precarious position in eighth place in the standings.

Asked if the defeat made the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">high-pressure match against India</a> at Old Trafford a must-win affair, Imam admitted,&nbsp;"Yes, we've had one game rained off which was very important for us - every game now is very important for us, so yes you can say that.''

"Obviously, to be part of that kind of game, it's great. It's in Manchester, lots of Pakistani fans there - so I'm really excited about it. It's a huge pressure game, obviously. Pakistan and India, there's a lot of mysteries behind that but we want to just focus on our cricket strengths and how we can get better," Imam said

Imam also felt <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">"hugely disappointed"</a> after getting out tamely just when he thought he was in a position to inspire his side to a famous win over defending champions Australia.

Pakistan's opener looked in fine form and had just reached his 50 in a dangerous-looking partnership with veteran Mohammad Hafeez.

At that stage his side was at 136/2, chasing what seemed a reachable target of 308. But he was dismissed for 53 off 75 balls in soft fashion by Pat Cummins.

From a ball which was short down the leg side, and would have been called a wide had he left it alone, Imam tried to pull but could only glove it to the Australian wicket-keeper Alex Carey.

It was a dismissal that transformed the match with three more wickets tumbling quickly and it left Imam so crestfallen that he hung his head and could barely drag himself back to the pavilion.

"Obviously, I'm playing well - and this team depends on me and Babar (Azam). When Babar got out (for 30), it was then my responsibility and I was going well but it was not a good ball that got me out, the same as I did against the West Indies.

"I knew I'd spent a hell of a lot of time on a tricky wicket so I knew it wouldn't be easy for any new batsman to come in. So it was a huge disappointment because it's a World Cup stage and if you get set, you really have to make it count if you want to stay in the tournament," he said. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq described the World Cup match against India on Sunday as a "huge-pressure game", which has also become a must-win one for his side following the loss to Australia here.

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq described the World Cup match against India on Sunday as a "huge-pressure game", which has also become a must-win one for his side following the loss to Australia here. Despite some late defiance from captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and freewheeling number nine Wahab Riaz, Pakistan succumbed to a 41-run loss to Australia on Wednesday and are now in an increasingly precarious position in eighth place in the standings. Asked if the defeat made the high-pressure match against India at Old Trafford a must-win affair, Imam admitted, "Yes, we've had one game rained off which was very important for us - every game now is very important for us, so yes you can say that.'' "Obviously, to be part of that kind of game, it's great. It's in Manchester, lots of Pakistani fans there - so I'm really excited about it. It's a huge pressure game, obviously. Pakistan and India, there's a lot of mysteries behind that but we want to just focus on our cricket strengths and how we can get better," Imam said Imam also felt "hugely disappointed" after getting out tamely just when he thought he was in a position to inspire his side to a famous win over defending champions Australia. Pakistan's opener looked in fine form and had just reached his 50 in a dangerous-looking partnership with veteran Mohammad Hafeez. At that stage his side was at 136/2, chasing what seemed a reachable target of 308. But he was dismissed for 53 off 75 balls in soft fashion by Pat Cummins. From a ball which was short down the leg side, and would have been called a wide had he left it alone, Imam tried to pull but could only glove it to the Australian wicket-keeper Alex Carey. It was a dismissal that transformed the match with three more wickets tumbling quickly and it left Imam so crestfallen that he hung his head and could barely drag himself back to the pavilion. "Obviously, I'm playing well - and this team depends on me and Babar (Azam). When Babar got out (for 30), it was then my responsibility and I was going well but it was not a good ball that got me out, the same as I did against the West Indies. "I knew I'd spent a hell of a lot of time on a tricky wicket so I knew it wouldn't be easy for any new batsman to come in. So it was a huge disappointment because it's a World Cup stage and if you get set, you really have to make it count if you want to stay in the tournament," he said.

World Cup: High-pressure India game a must-win for Pakistan, says Imam-ul-Haq

Several Opposition Leaders In Pakistan Have Been Put Behind Bars Over The Last Few Months. The Latest To Joint The List Is Hamza Shehbaz. Is Pakistan Taking The Path Of Authoritarian? Imran Khan Government Has Targeted Opposition Leaders. Several Leaders Are Behind The Bars On Corruption Charges. Is Imran Khan Abusing Anti-graft Laws To Divert Attention From The Sorry State Of Pakistan's Economy?

Gravitas: Pakistan: Major Crackdown On Opposition

PM Avoids Pakistan's Airspace On His Way To Bishkek For SCO Summit. PM's Flight Route To Bishkek For SCO Summit Is Already Making Headlines. Amidst Strained Ties With Pakistan, Modi Avoids Pakistan's Airspace. What's The Government's Pakistan Strategy? How Will Modi Government 2.0 Approach The Pakistan Problem.

Gravitas: SCO Summit: What Is India's Strategy To Counter Pakistan?

SCO Is A Multilateral Forum & Platform For India To Advance Its Ties With Central Asian Countries. Pakistan Is Just One Of The Issues For India At The SCO Summit. It's A Platform For New Delhi To Advance Its Ties With Central Asian Countries. So What Are The Opportunities & Challenges For India. Here's A Report.

Gravitas: SCO: Opportunities & Challenges For India

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eye-on-china-us-government-seeks-more-funding-from-congress-to-bolster-bay-of-bengal-military-security-226703">Eye on China: US government seeks more funding from Congress to bolster Bay of Bengal military security</a>

With an eye on countering increasing Chinese influence in key&nbsp;South Asian countries, the Trump administration has sought $30 million for what it has described as "Bay of Bengal" security initiative to provide foreign military financing to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-defence-budget-unchanged-says-minister-documents-show-45-increase-226697">Pakistan's defence budget 'unchanged', says minister; documents show 4.5% increase</a>

The Pakistan government claimed that its defence budget was kept unchanged at Rs 1,152,535 million&nbsp;for next fiscal (2019-20), but the official documents showed that there was nominal increase of 4.5 per cent in the defence expenditure as compared to the last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-overcome-mistakes-to-beat-india-says-sarfaraz-after-australia-defeat-226683">We need to overcome mistakes to beat India, says Sarfaraz after Australia defeat</a>

Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said his side's needs to raise their fielding standards ahead of a crucial World Cup match against arch-rivals India at Old Trafford on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-state-media-blames-hong-kong-protests-on-lawlessness-226680">China state media blames Hong Kong protests on 'lawlessness'</a>

Protests in Hong Kong&nbsp;over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-hai-to-mumkin-hai-says-pompeo-ahead-of-india-visit-226682">Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit</a>

Citing the popular election slogan "Modi hai to mumkin hai", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen.

Eye on China: US government seeks more funding from Congress to bolster Bay of Bengal military security With an eye on countering increasing Chinese influence in key South Asian countries, the Trump administration has sought $30 million for what it has described as "Bay of Bengal" security initiative to provide foreign military financing to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

Eye on China: US government seeks more funding from Congress to bolster Bay of Bengal military security With an eye on countering increasing Chinese influence in key South Asian countries, the Trump administration has sought $30 million for what it has described as "Bay of Bengal" security initiative to provide foreign military financing to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Maldives. Pakistan's defence budget 'unchanged', says minister; documents show 4.5% increase The Pakistan government claimed that its defence budget was kept unchanged at Rs 1,152,535 million for next fiscal (2019-20), but the official documents showed that there was nominal increase of 4.5 per cent in the defence expenditure as compared to the last year. We need to overcome mistakes to beat India, says Sarfaraz after Australia defeat Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said his side's needs to raise their fielding standards ahead of a crucial World Cup match against arch-rivals India at Old Trafford on Sunday. China state media blames Hong Kong protests on 'lawlessness' Protests in Hong Kong over planned new extradition laws with China are "hammering" the city`s reputation, with outbreaks of "lawlessness" undermining rule of law, Chinese state media said in editorials published on Thursday. Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit Citing the popular election slogan "Modi hai to mumkin hai", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The United States President Donald Trump-led administration has taken a tough stand against Pakistan for its "unacceptable support" for terrorism in the region, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

"Under President Trump, we have taken our defence cooperation to new heights solidifying our common vision in Indo Pacific and has taken a far tougher stand on Pakistan unacceptable support for terrorism," said Pompeo during India Ideas Summit Washington on Wednesday.

The remarks come days after Washington had announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-hai-to-mumkin-hai-says-pompeo-ahead-of-india-visit-226682">Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit</a>

The US has already barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval.

Last year, Trump suspended US $1.3 billion annual security aid which was given to Pakistan, condemning it over its inaction on the terrorism front.

Focussing on India -US ties under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pompeo asserted that New Delhi and Washington have a unique opportunity to take advantage of it "special partnership".

"When Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the United States in 2017, President Trump and Modi shared few hugs and goodwill. PM Modi said it is in Indian interest lies in strong prosperous and successful America. In similar ways India`s development and its growing role at the international level are in the United States of America`s interest as well," he added.

Pompeo`s visit will take place as the two countries get ready for a meeting between Modi and Trump during the G-20 Summit on June 28 and 29 in Osaka, Japan.

Pompeo also said that the US is open for a dialogue to resolve trade differences with India."It`s a partnership of equals is how we see it. In my upcoming visit, we will probably discuss the GSP decision," Pompeo said.&nbsp;

The United States President Donald Trump-led administration has taken a tough stand against Pakistan for its "unacceptable support" for terrorism in the region, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The United States President Donald Trump-led administration has taken a tough stand against Pakistan for its "unacceptable support" for terrorism in the region, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. "Under President Trump, we have taken our defence cooperation to new heights solidifying our common vision in Indo Pacific and has taken a far tougher stand on Pakistan unacceptable support for terrorism," said Pompeo during India Ideas Summit Washington on Wednesday. The remarks come days after Washington had announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats. Also read: Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit The US has already barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval. Last year, Trump suspended US $1.3 billion annual security aid which was given to Pakistan, condemning it over its inaction on the terrorism front. Focussing on India -US ties under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pompeo asserted that New Delhi and Washington have a unique opportunity to take advantage of it "special partnership". "When Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the United States in 2017, President Trump and Modi shared few hugs and goodwill. PM Modi said it is in Indian interest lies in strong prosperous and successful America. In similar ways India`s development and its growing role at the international level are in the United States of America`s interest as well," he added. Pompeo`s visit will take place as the two countries get ready for a meeting between Modi and Trump during the G-20 Summit on June 28 and 29 in Osaka, Japan. Pompeo also said that the US is open for a dialogue to resolve trade differences with India."It`s a partnership of equals is how we see it. In my upcoming visit, we will probably discuss the GSP decision," Pompeo said.

Trump took tough stand against Pak's unacceptable support for terrorism: Pompeo

Australian pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood admits he is barely watching the World Cup as his disappointment at not being selected continues to cause him pain.

The 27-year-old was overlooked after being out of action since January with a back injury, as selectors preferred him to focus on getting ready for the Ashes Test series in England, which begins in August.

Hazlewood is currently in camp at Brisbane with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistani-fans-love-cricket-they-wont-boo-steven-smith-captain-sarfaraz-ahmed-226376">Australia </a>A squads - along with the likes of Peter Handscomb, Travis Head and Marcus Harris -&nbsp;ahead of their departure for England on Friday for a seven-week tour.

Now fully fit, he said he had was trying to avoid the World Cup and direct his energies elsewhere.

"I'm trying to focus on what I'm doing up here," he told cricket.com.au Wednesday.&nbsp;

"I'll sit down at night and watch a couple of overs but I'm trying to steer clear of it a little bit. The more you watch something, the more you probably miss it. So I'm just trying to pretend it's not on, to a degree," Hazlewood said.

Instead, his focus is on the Ashes, and he warned that he would be fresh and raring to go against the English batsmen.

"I know I can do a great job when I'm physically pretty fresh and that's how I'm going to enter this Ashes, so I'm looking forward to it," he said.

Hazlewood is set to make his return in the one-day format for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-marcus-stoinis-ruled-out-of-australias-clash-against-sri-lanka-226259">Australia </a>A from June 20, before three red-ball fixtures starting on July 7.&nbsp;

Those matches culminate in an 'Australia v Australia A' four-day fixture in Hampshire, which will serve as a final selection trial for the Ashes squad.&nbsp;

"I've done as much as I can in the nets. It takes that time out in the middle now to get that extra couple of per cent up to one hundred," Hazlewood&nbsp;said.

Australian pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood admits he is barely watching the World Cup as his disappointment at not being selected continues to cause him pain. The 27-year-old was overlooked after being out of action since January with a back injury, as selectors preferred him to focus on getting ready for the Ashes Test series in England, which begins in August.

Australian pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood admits he is barely watching the World Cup as his disappointment at not being selected continues to cause him pain. The 27-year-old was overlooked after being out of action since January with a back injury, as selectors preferred him to focus on getting ready for the Ashes Test series in England, which begins in August. Hazlewood is currently in camp at Brisbane with the Australia A squads - along with the likes of Peter Handscomb, Travis Head and Marcus Harris - ahead of their departure for England on Friday for a seven-week tour. Now fully fit, he said he had was trying to avoid the World Cup and direct his energies elsewhere. "I'm trying to focus on what I'm doing up here," he told cricket.com.au Wednesday. "I'll sit down at night and watch a couple of overs but I'm trying to steer clear of it a little bit. The more you watch something, the more you probably miss it. So I'm just trying to pretend it's not on, to a degree," Hazlewood said. Instead, his focus is on the Ashes, and he warned that he would be fresh and raring to go against the English batsmen. "I know I can do a great job when I'm physically pretty fresh and that's how I'm going to enter this Ashes, so I'm looking forward to it," he said. Hazlewood is set to make his return in the one-day format for Australia A from June 20, before three red-ball fixtures starting on July 7. Those matches culminate in an 'Australia v Australia A' four-day fixture in Hampshire, which will serve as a final selection trial for the Ashes squad. "I've done as much as I can in the nets. It takes that time out in the middle now to get that extra couple of per cent up to one hundred," Hazlewood said.

ICC Cricket World Cup too painful to watch, says Australia's Josh Hazlewood

&nbsp;An accountability court Wednesday remanded Opposition leader in Pakistan's Punjab Assembly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-restrains-anti-graft-body-from-arresting-hamza-shehbaz-208787">Hamza Shahbaz</a> to 14-day physical custody, a day after the country's anti-graft body arrested him in cases related to money laundering and corruption.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) was granted Hamza's custody till June 26. Judge Jawadul Hassan pronounced the reserved verdict after hearing the arguments from both sides in the case.

A NAB team earlier brought Hamza, 44, to the court amid tight security. Hamza is the son of PML-N president and National Assembly opposition leader Shahbaz Sharif.

The NAB prosecutor informed the court that the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) vice president had failed to disclose the means from which he received Rs 500 million transferred into his account.

The NAB had requested for a 15-day physical remand of the PML-N leader. The court has ordered Hamza to be presented before the accountability court on June 26, Geo News reported.

Hamza was arrested Tuesday by the NAB officials after a two-member Lahore High Court (LHC) bench dismissed bail applications filed by him.

His arrest came a day after former president Asif Ali Zardari was arrested by NAB in Islamabad.

Hamza is accused of laundering money through his front men who are already in NAB's custody.

He is under investigation in the Ramzan Sugar Mills, Saaf Paani project and assets beyond known means of income cases.

The NAB has found evidence of money laundering on a massive scale through which Shehbaz and his family accumulated assets in the UK.

According to sources privy to NAB's investigation, the illegally accumulated assets are worth Rs 85 billion to Rs 100 billion and were bought during Shebaz's tenure as the Punjab Chief Minister.

In the Ramzan Sugar Mills corruption case, Shehbaz and his son Hamza are accused of "fraudulently and dishonestly" causing a Rs 213 million loss to the national exchequer.

Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau in October 2018 and released on bail on February 14.

His brother and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have been serving a seven-year prison term at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018, when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in the Panama Papers case.

Both Sharif and his daughter Maryam have been sentenced to seven years in prison, respectively. Maryam's husband Muhammad Safdar was jailed for one year in the same case.

Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them are politically motivated.

An accountability court Wednesday remanded Opposition leader in Pakistan's Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz to 14-day physical custody, a day after the country's anti-graft body arrested him in cases related to money laundering and corruption.

An accountability court Wednesday remanded Opposition leader in Pakistan's Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz to 14-day physical custody, a day after the country's anti-graft body arrested him in cases related to money laundering and corruption. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) was granted Hamza's custody till June 26. Judge Jawadul Hassan pronounced the reserved verdict after hearing the arguments from both sides in the case. A NAB team earlier brought Hamza, 44, to the court amid tight security. Hamza is the son of PML-N president and National Assembly opposition leader Shahbaz Sharif. The NAB prosecutor informed the court that the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) vice president had failed to disclose the means from which he received Rs 500 million transferred into his account. The NAB had requested for a 15-day physical remand of the PML-N leader. The court has ordered Hamza to be presented before the accountability court on June 26, Geo News reported. Hamza was arrested Tuesday by the NAB officials after a two-member Lahore High Court (LHC) bench dismissed bail applications filed by him. His arrest came a day after former president Asif Ali Zardari was arrested by NAB in Islamabad. Hamza is accused of laundering money through his front men who are already in NAB's custody. He is under investigation in the Ramzan Sugar Mills, Saaf Paani project and assets beyond known means of income cases. The NAB has found evidence of money laundering on a massive scale through which Shehbaz and his family accumulated assets in the UK. According to sources privy to NAB's investigation, the illegally accumulated assets are worth Rs 85 billion to Rs 100 billion and were bought during Shebaz's tenure as the Punjab Chief Minister. In the Ramzan Sugar Mills corruption case, Shehbaz and his son Hamza are accused of "fraudulently and dishonestly" causing a Rs 213 million loss to the national exchequer. Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau in October 2018 and released on bail on February 14. His brother and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have been serving a seven-year prison term at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018, when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in the Panama Papers case. Both Sharif and his daughter Maryam have been sentenced to seven years in prison, respectively. Maryam's husband Muhammad Safdar was jailed for one year in the same case. Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them are politically motivated.

Hamza Shahbaz remanded into 14-day National Accountability Bureau custody

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/our-debt-has-gone-up-to-205-billion-in-the-last-decade-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-in-national-address-225840">huge debts incurred during the last 10 years</a>, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases.&nbsp;

In an unusual midnight speech after the first budget of his cash-strapped government was presented, Khan said that all economic problem was due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-asks-pakistanis-to-declare-their-undisclosed-assets-by-jun-30-225963">debt which increased to Rs 300 crore</a> from Rs 60 crore in 10 years.&nbsp;

His speech came on the day when Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in cases related to money laundering.&nbsp;

On Monday, former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/zardari-produced-before-court-anti-graft-body-seeks-physical-remand-226185">Asif Ali Zardari </a>was also arrested by the NAB in connection with a multi-million dollar money laundering case.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/nawaz-sharif-quizzed-in-jail-by-anti-graft-body-over-illegal-purchase-of-over-30-bulletproof-vehicles-222338">Nawaz Sharif </a>(from the PML-N party) is already in jail having been sentenced in another corruption case in 2018.

Khan announced that after putting to rest the initial focus of the government to stabilise the economy, his attention would be more targeted towards bringing the ones to task who had caused the country to fall into such dire straits.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION</a>

"Pakistan is stable now. That pressure [to stabilise the economy] has been relieved. Now I will go after them [the corrupt politicians]," declared the prime minister.

"I'm making a high-powered enquiry commission with a one-point agenda: how did they raise the debt to Rs 24,000 billion (240 crore) in 10 years?"

He said that the commission shall comprise the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), IB (Intelligence Bureau), ISI (the Inter-services Intelligence Directorate), FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan).&nbsp;

The Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz served in two successive terms since 2008 when Khan claimed debt increased.

Khan said that the commission will include representatives of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).

He said that those who were in helms of affairs during last 10 years will not be spared.

Watch: Is the IMF bailout a&nbsp;Lifeline for Pakistan's economy?

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"All those in power will be fully investigated by this commission which will prepare a report so that no one dares leave the country in tatters ever again," he said.&nbsp;

"Even if my life goes, I will not leave these thieves alone. I had prayed to God to give me one chance. I will not leave them."

He blamed the two previous governments for all ills including low growth, joblessness and devaluations.

Khan's government has been heavily criticised for the politically-motivated arrests in corruption cases, but he defended them.

Khan said he would not be "blackmailed" with protests.&nbsp;

Talking about the recent arrests of the bigwigs, Khan said, "I am grateful to Allah, the big figures who are now jailed, no one could have imagined [it could be done]."&nbsp;

"People are crying that Sharif and Zardari have been jailed [...] both of them used to call each other corrupt. Mian Nawaz Sharif jailed Zardari twice during his two tenures.

The prime minister said that they [Nawaz and Zardari] came to an agreement that each would rule for five years and "not say anything to each other".&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe huge debts incurred during the last 10 years, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to go after the "thieves" who left the country badly in debt and set up a high-powered commission to probe huge debts incurred during the last 10 years, as he defended arrests of several key political figures in corruption cases. In an unusual midnight speech after the first budget of his cash-strapped government was presented, Khan said that all economic problem was due to debt which increased to Rs 300 crore from Rs 60 crore in 10 years. His speech came on the day when Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in cases related to money laundering. On Monday, former president Asif Ali Zardari was also arrested by the NAB in connection with a multi-million dollar money laundering case. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (from the PML-N party) is already in jail having been sentenced in another corruption case in 2018. Khan announced that after putting to rest the initial focus of the government to stabilise the economy, his attention would be more targeted towards bringing the ones to task who had caused the country to fall into such dire straits. Also read: Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION "Pakistan is stable now. That pressure [to stabilise the economy] has been relieved. Now I will go after them [the corrupt politicians]," declared the prime minister. "I'm making a high-powered enquiry commission with a one-point agenda: how did they raise the debt to Rs 24,000 billion (240 crore) in 10 years?" He said that the commission shall comprise the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), IB (Intelligence Bureau), ISI (the Inter-services Intelligence Directorate), FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan). The Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz served in two successive terms since 2008 when Khan claimed debt increased. Khan said that the commission will include representatives of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). He said that those who were in helms of affairs during last 10 years will not be spared. Watch: Is the IMF bailout a Lifeline for Pakistan's economy? × "All those in power will be fully investigated by this commission which will prepare a report so that no one dares leave the country in tatters ever again," he said. "Even if my life goes, I will not leave these thieves alone. I had prayed to God to give me one chance. I will not leave them." He blamed the two previous governments for all ills including low growth, joblessness and devaluations. Khan's government has been heavily criticised for the politically-motivated arrests in corruption cases, but he defended them. Khan said he would not be "blackmailed" with protests. Talking about the recent arrests of the bigwigs, Khan said, "I am grateful to Allah, the big figures who are now jailed, no one could have imagined [it could be done]." "People are crying that Sharif and Zardari have been jailed [...] both of them used to call each other corrupt. Mian Nawaz Sharif jailed Zardari twice during his two tenures. The prime minister said that they [Nawaz and Zardari] came to an agreement that each would rule for five years and "not say anything to each other".

Imran Khan vows to go after 'thieves' responsible for Pakistan's economic woes 

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 11th, 2019

Players to watch out for in Australia vs Pakistan clash at World Cup

China tried to play facilitator & suggested that India should reciprocate Imran Khan’s peace missive and enter into a dialogue. Watch this video to know more.

China praises 'peace striving' Pakistan

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government was set to present an austerity-focused budget Tuesday, weeks after the country reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-likely-to-give-6-billion-us-dollar-bailout-package-to-pakistan-197059">$6 billion bailout</a>.

The presentation of Khan's first budget comes just a day after the government released the latest round of bleak economic figures for the cash-strapped country, showing growth for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-economic-growth-falls-to-329-per-cent-in-fy19-226094">current fiscal year falling to 3.3 per cent</a> -- well below the 6.2 per cent target.

The release of the figures comes as discontent simmers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-announces-militarys-voluntary-cut-in-defence-expenditure-amid-financial-crisis-224402">Pakistan</a> following repeated devaluations of the rupee, soaring inflation, and increasing utility costs.&nbsp;

The economic pain follows months of failed efforts by Khan's administration to stave off ballooning fiscal and balance of payments deficits, along with low tax yields and mounting debt. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION</a>

"Prime Minister Imran Khan has committed to... trying to correct things permanently even if we go through hard times for six months or one year or one and a half years,” said the country’s finance advisor, Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, late Monday.

Earlier Monday, Khan took to the country's airways for the second time in recent weeks to plead with Pakistanis to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-asks-pakistanis-to-declare-their-undisclosed-assets-by-jun-30-225963">declare their assets in the latest scheme</a> aimed at increasing tax revenues.&nbsp;

Pakistan has struggled for decades to collect taxes with estimates suggesting that only around one per cent of the 200-million strong population filed a return in 2018.

Is The IMF Bailout A Lifeline For Pakistan's Economy?

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The agreement eked out with the IMF still needs final approval by the fund’s board, and it is widely believed the body is waiting for the presentation of the budget before giving the final sign-off.

Analysts have warned the IMF deal would likely come with myriad restrictions that could bridle Khan's grand promises to build an Islamic welfare state, as the country is forced to tighten its purse strings.

Pakistan’s increasing economic woes also come as the country is facing possible sanctions from the Financial Action Task Force -- a money-laundering monitor based in Paris -- for failing to rein-in terror financing.

The organisation will decide soon whether to add Pakistan to a blacklist that would trigger automatic sanctions, further weakening an already-faltering economy.

To add to its troubles, the United States has also warned it will be watching closely to ensure Pakistan does not use IMF money to repay debts to China, which has poured billions into the country for infrastructure projects under its Belt and Road Initiative. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government was set to present an austerity-focused budget Tuesday, weeks after the country reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund for a $6 billion bailout.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government was set to present an austerity-focused budget Tuesday, weeks after the country reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund for a $6 billion bailout. The presentation of Khan's first budget comes just a day after the government released the latest round of bleak economic figures for the cash-strapped country, showing growth for the current fiscal year falling to 3.3 per cent -- well below the 6.2 per cent target. The release of the figures comes as discontent simmers in Pakistan following repeated devaluations of the rupee, soaring inflation, and increasing utility costs. The economic pain follows months of failed efforts by Khan's administration to stave off ballooning fiscal and balance of payments deficits, along with low tax yields and mounting debt. Also read: Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION "Prime Minister Imran Khan has committed to... trying to correct things permanently even if we go through hard times for six months or one year or one and a half years,” said the country’s finance advisor, Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, late Monday. Earlier Monday, Khan took to the country's airways for the second time in recent weeks to plead with Pakistanis to declare their assets in the latest scheme aimed at increasing tax revenues. Pakistan has struggled for decades to collect taxes with estimates suggesting that only around one per cent of the 200-million strong population filed a return in 2018. Is The IMF Bailout A Lifeline For Pakistan's Economy? × The agreement eked out with the IMF still needs final approval by the fund’s board, and it is widely believed the body is waiting for the presentation of the budget before giving the final sign-off. Analysts have warned the IMF deal would likely come with myriad restrictions that could bridle Khan's grand promises to build an Islamic welfare state, as the country is forced to tighten its purse strings. Pakistan’s increasing economic woes also come as the country is facing possible sanctions from the Financial Action Task Force -- a money-laundering monitor based in Paris -- for failing to rein-in terror financing. The organisation will decide soon whether to add Pakistan to a blacklist that would trigger automatic sanctions, further weakening an already-faltering economy. To add to its troubles, the United States has also warned it will be watching closely to ensure Pakistan does not use IMF money to repay debts to China, which has poured billions into the country for infrastructure projects under its Belt and Road Initiative.

Pakistan to present austerity-centred budget following IMF deal

In remote valleys in northern Pakistan, the Kalash minority celebrates spring's arrival with a colourful dance but an influx of camera-wielding visitors is threatening their unique traditions.

Pakistan's Kalash minority battles tourism deluge

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 10th, 2019

Imports from Pakistan declined by 92 per cent to $2.84 million in March this year after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/customs-duty-on-all-goods-imported-from-pakistan-hiked-to-200-arun-jaitley-197808">imposition of 200 per cent customs duties </a>on all products following Pulwama terror attack.

On February 16 this year, taking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">strong economic action against Pakistan</a> following the attack, India raised the customs duty to 200 per cent on all goods imported from the neighbouring country, including cotton, fresh fruits, cement, petroleum products and mineral ore.

According to the data of the commerce ministry, the imports from the neighbouring country stood at $34.61 million in March 2018. Out of the $2.84 million imports in March, as much as $1.19 million was accounted for cotton import by India.

According to experts, certain domestic manufacturing exporters could be availing nil import duty benefit under advance authorisation scheme to import products, especially raw materials from Pakistan, as it would not be viable for anyone to import goods at 200 per cent customs duties.

The main commodities imported during the month from the neighbouring country include plastics, knitted fabrics, preparation of vegetables, articles of apparel and clothing, spices, chemicals, man-made filaments, and wool.

During the January-March period of 2018-19 fiscal, the imports from Pakistan declined by 47 per cent to $53.65 million.

India's exports to Pakistan too have dipped by about 32 per cent to $171.34 million in March. However, the exports grew by 7.4 per cent to $2 billion during 2018-19.

The main products being exported by India include organic chemicals; cotton; nuclear reactors, boilers; plastic products; tanning or dyeing extracts; cereals; sugar; coffee, tea; articles of iron and steel; copper and footwear.

India had also revoked the MFN (most favoured nation) status to Pakistan in the aftermath of the terror attack. The country has repealed a security exception clause of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to withdraw this status. Both countries are a member of this body.

India can also restrict the trade of certain goods and impose port-related restrictions on Pakistani goods. India had granted the MFN status to Pakistan way back in 1996, but the neighbouring country had not reciprocated.

Under the MFN pact, a WTO member country is obliged to treat the other trading nation in a non-discriminatory manner, especially with regard to customs duty and other levies.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed in a vehicle-borne IED attack on November 14, 2018, at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. This was one of the deadliest terror attacks on security forces in the Kashmir valley.

Imports from Pakistan declined by 92 per cent to $2.84 million in March this year after imposition of 200 per cent customs duties on all products following Pulwama terror attack.

Imports from Pakistan declined by 92 per cent to $2.84 million in March this year after imposition of 200 per cent customs duties on all products following Pulwama terror attack. On February 16 this year, taking strong economic action against Pakistan following the attack, India raised the customs duty to 200 per cent on all goods imported from the neighbouring country, including cotton, fresh fruits, cement, petroleum products and mineral ore. According to the data of the commerce ministry, the imports from the neighbouring country stood at $34.61 million in March 2018. Out of the $2.84 million imports in March, as much as $1.19 million was accounted for cotton import by India. According to experts, certain domestic manufacturing exporters could be availing nil import duty benefit under advance authorisation scheme to import products, especially raw materials from Pakistan, as it would not be viable for anyone to import goods at 200 per cent customs duties. The main commodities imported during the month from the neighbouring country include plastics, knitted fabrics, preparation of vegetables, articles of apparel and clothing, spices, chemicals, man-made filaments, and wool. During the January-March period of 2018-19 fiscal, the imports from Pakistan declined by 47 per cent to $53.65 million. India's exports to Pakistan too have dipped by about 32 per cent to $171.34 million in March. However, the exports grew by 7.4 per cent to $2 billion during 2018-19. The main products being exported by India include organic chemicals; cotton; nuclear reactors, boilers; plastic products; tanning or dyeing extracts; cereals; sugar; coffee, tea; articles of iron and steel; copper and footwear. India had also revoked the MFN (most favoured nation) status to Pakistan in the aftermath of the terror attack. The country has repealed a security exception clause of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to withdraw this status. Both countries are a member of this body. India can also restrict the trade of certain goods and impose port-related restrictions on Pakistani goods. India had granted the MFN status to Pakistan way back in 1996, but the neighbouring country had not reciprocated. Under the MFN pact, a WTO member country is obliged to treat the other trading nation in a non-discriminatory manner, especially with regard to customs duty and other levies. Forty CRPF personnel were killed in a vehicle-borne IED attack on November 14, 2018, at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. This was one of the deadliest terror attacks on security forces in the Kashmir valley.

Imports from Pakistan plunge 92% in March after imposition of 200% customs duties

Opposition leader in the National Assembly<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-to-return-to-pakistan-on-june-8-225034"> Shehbaz Sharif</a>, facing corruption charges, returned to Pakistan on Sunday following a "quick visit" to London, a media report said.

Shehbaz, 67, served as the chief minister of the politically crucial Punjab province from 2013 to 2018.

He became Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz&nbsp;president after his elder brother and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif were disqualified as the party president following a Supreme Court verdict in the Elections Act 2017 case.

Shehbaz arrived at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on Sunday. In the form of a rally, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party workers took him from the airport till his residence in Model Town, where sweets were distributed, Dawn newspaper reported.

Ahead of Shehbaz's arrival, a large number of PML-N party workers, MPs and senior leaders reached the airport at night.

Shehbaz had announced a "quick visit" to London on April 9 after his name was removed from the no-fly list on Lahore High Court orders. Party sources had said at the time that he intended to return within 10-12 days, the report said.

He faces court cases for corruption and dishonesty.

In the Ashiyana housing scam, Shehbaz is accused of ordering the cancellation of a contract given to a successful bidder for the low-cost housing scheme, resulting in a loss of Rs 193 million to the national exchequer.

In the Ramzan Sugar Mills corruption case, Sharif and his son Hamza Shahbaz are accused of "fraudulently and dishonestly" causing a Rs 213 million loss to the national exchequer.

Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau in October 2018 and released on bail on February 14.

His brother Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018, when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case.

Both Sharif and his daughter Maryam have been sentenced to seven years in prison, respectively. Maryam's husband Muhammad Safdar was jailed for one year in the same case.

Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them are politically motivated.&nbsp;

Opposition leader in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif, facing corruption charges, returned to Pakistan on Sunday following a "quick visit" to London, a media report said.

Opposition leader in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif, facing corruption charges, returned to Pakistan on Sunday following a "quick visit" to London, a media report said. Shehbaz, 67, served as the chief minister of the politically crucial Punjab province from 2013 to 2018. He became Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz president after his elder brother and three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif were disqualified as the party president following a Supreme Court verdict in the Elections Act 2017 case. Shehbaz arrived at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on Sunday. In the form of a rally, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party workers took him from the airport till his residence in Model Town, where sweets were distributed, Dawn newspaper reported. Ahead of Shehbaz's arrival, a large number of PML-N party workers, MPs and senior leaders reached the airport at night. Shehbaz had announced a "quick visit" to London on April 9 after his name was removed from the no-fly list on Lahore High Court orders. Party sources had said at the time that he intended to return within 10-12 days, the report said. He faces court cases for corruption and dishonesty. In the Ashiyana housing scam, Shehbaz is accused of ordering the cancellation of a contract given to a successful bidder for the low-cost housing scheme, resulting in a loss of Rs 193 million to the national exchequer. In the Ramzan Sugar Mills corruption case, Sharif and his son Hamza Shahbaz are accused of "fraudulently and dishonestly" causing a Rs 213 million loss to the national exchequer. Shehbaz was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau in October 2018 and released on bail on February 14. His brother Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore since December 24, 2018, when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case. Both Sharif and his daughter Maryam have been sentenced to seven years in prison, respectively. Maryam's husband Muhammad Safdar was jailed for one year in the same case. Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them are politically motivated.

Pakistan: Shehbaz Sharif returns from a 'quick' London visit

Four Pakistani soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in a tribal region along the Afghan border, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday.

"Deeply saddened to learn of the shahadat of 3 officers &amp; 1 soldier from a terrorist-planted IED blast in Kharkamar, N.Waziristan," Khan said on his Twitter account.

He gave no more details but Dawn, Pakistan's biggest English-language newspaper, cited the military's media wing as saying four other soldiers were wounded when the blast targeted a military vehicle in North Waziristan on Friday.

The report did not say who was behind the bombing.

Violence in Pakistan has declined in recent years following a series of military operations along the northwestern border with Afghanistan, but militant groups are still able to carry out deadly attacks.

The military said the latest casualties bring to 10 the number of security personnel killed in "terrorist" violence in the area over the past month, Dawn reported.

Four Pakistani soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in a tribal region along the Afghan border, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday.

Four Pakistani soldiers have been killed by an improvised explosive device in a tribal region along the Afghan border, Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Saturday. "Deeply saddened to learn of the shahadat of 3 officers & 1 soldier from a terrorist-planted IED blast in Kharkamar, N.Waziristan," Khan said on his Twitter account. He gave no more details but Dawn, Pakistan's biggest English-language newspaper, cited the military's media wing as saying four other soldiers were wounded when the blast targeted a military vehicle in North Waziristan on Friday. The report did not say who was behind the bombing. Violence in Pakistan has declined in recent years following a series of military operations along the northwestern border with Afghanistan, but militant groups are still able to carry out deadly attacks. The military said the latest casualties bring to 10 the number of security personnel killed in "terrorist" violence in the area over the past month, Dawn reported.

Blast kills 4 Pakistan soldiers in border region

In a letter to Modi congratulating him on his second term as the prime minister of India, Khan said talks between the two nations were the only solution to help both countries' people overcome poverty and that it was important to work together for regional development.

Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, says Pakistan wants talks with India to resolve all disputes

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