Does it make sense for India to get words of help from a superpower called the United States of America that no longer behaves like one? Does it make sense for India to have hostile neighbours when it has the world's fastest-growing major economy? Should it do something that could exacerbate tensions that affects the mood of investors?&nbsp;

Tough challenges face Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence after last week's horrendous car bomb attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists on a convoy of Central Reserve Police Force jawans at Pulwama in Kashmir, in which at least 40 men were martyred.

It is fine to light candles to mourn the victims and cry out in outrage against Pakistan's help for jihadi terror groups on its soil, and fine for the Army to carry out retaliatory operations as it happened in the aftermath of the attack. But one harsh reality remains: the world has changed so much, that a painstakingly built-up diplomatic advantage that India had in cornering Pakistan after the 9/11 attacks in New York by Al Qaeda in 2001 and then the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai in 2008 has been considerably eroded by the flow of events since then.

What this means is that even as India reserves the right to secure its territory from attackers and terrorists, it is a lonely game in which it has to walk diplomatic tightropes all around.

Pakistan is neither the failed state it is often painted to be, nor isolated in the international community. While Indians lit candles to mourn dead jawans, Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad was playing chauffeur to Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman, whose team pledged $20 billion investments into Pakistan - and that is about Rs 140,000 crore! Contrast that with the fact that the annual export from Pakistan to India affected by New Delhi withdrawing the Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan is less than $ 0.5 billion.

China, which has rejected India's attempts at the United Nations to declare Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist despite overwhelming evidence is clearly not helping India in containing terrorism. Please also recall that Pakistan's then army chief and later miltary dictator Pervez Musharraf was in Beijing when the Kargil war broke out in 1999 - under his supervision.

Last month, Pakistan and China decided to widen the scope of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including expansion of activities in the Gwadar Port in Balochistan. CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and involves investments estimated at $62 billion - and that is worth about Rs 440,000 crore! The Chinese dragon won't spew that kind of money without a quid-pro-quo. Beijing's mandarins now have a clear access to the Arabian Sea through Pakistan.

All this is happening while the US is busy pulling its troops out of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India now has to deal with a new geopolitical reality in which Washington is less interested in policing the planet while China is helping Pakistan. Some of that Saudi money coming into Pakistan may well trickle towards jihadi groups. Islamabad is cleverly hedging its bets by keeping both the Saudis and the Chinese happy. Failed state, did someone say?&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as India warms up to Iran, Saudi Arabia is slamming Tehran for blaming it for an attack last week that killed 27 members of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard. Tehran, after blaming the Saudis, now blames Pakistan. It is all very messy but it is vital to note the attack took place on the Iranian side of Balochistan.

Officially, everybody condemns terrorism but ground realities are different.

India now has the lever of trade to tackle Beijing. China is the leading maker or exporter of smartphones sold in India and its investors are hot in India's digital economy. The RSS-affiliated Swadeshi Jagran Manch has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek a ban on Chinese companies in India. India imported Chinese goods worth $68 billion in 2017 and its exports to China was about $16 billion.&nbsp;

India's best bet could stem from the fact that the US and China are also in the middle of a trade war while Beijing badly needs help to boost its sagging economy. But India also gets investments into India from China, with billion-dollar-valuation startups like PayTm gaining significantly. It is a complicated chessboard, but trade seems to be the best lever India can use to make China see reason.&nbsp;

Indians lighting candles for Pulwama victims may well pause a moment to think of the dragon in the neighbourhood. The government could do with some help.

 
(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/lonely-after-pulwama-indias-diplomatic-challenge-as-saudi-arabia-and-china-embrace-pakistan-2181690.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

Does it make sense for India to get words of help from a superpower called the United States of America that no longer behaves like one? Does it make sense for India to have hostile neighbours when it has the world's fastest-growing major economy?

Does it make sense for India to get words of help from a superpower called the United States of America that no longer behaves like one? Does it make sense for India to have hostile neighbours when it has the world's fastest-growing major economy? Should it do something that could exacerbate tensions that affects the mood of investors? Tough challenges face Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence after last week's horrendous car bomb attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists on a convoy of Central Reserve Police Force jawans at Pulwama in Kashmir, in which at least 40 men were martyred. It is fine to light candles to mourn the victims and cry out in outrage against Pakistan's help for jihadi terror groups on its soil, and fine for the Army to carry out retaliatory operations as it happened in the aftermath of the attack. But one harsh reality remains: the world has changed so much, that a painstakingly built-up diplomatic advantage that India had in cornering Pakistan after the 9/11 attacks in New York by Al Qaeda in 2001 and then the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai in 2008 has been considerably eroded by the flow of events since then. What this means is that even as India reserves the right to secure its territory from attackers and terrorists, it is a lonely game in which it has to walk diplomatic tightropes all around. Pakistan is neither the failed state it is often painted to be, nor isolated in the international community. While Indians lit candles to mourn dead jawans, Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad was playing chauffeur to Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman, whose team pledged $20 billion investments into Pakistan - and that is about Rs 140,000 crore! Contrast that with the fact that the annual export from Pakistan to India affected by New Delhi withdrawing the Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan is less than $ 0.5 billion. China, which has rejected India's attempts at the United Nations to declare Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist despite overwhelming evidence is clearly not helping India in containing terrorism. Please also recall that Pakistan's then army chief and later miltary dictator Pervez Musharraf was in Beijing when the Kargil war broke out in 1999 - under his supervision. Last month, Pakistan and China decided to widen the scope of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including expansion of activities in the Gwadar Port in Balochistan. CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and involves investments estimated at $62 billion - and that is worth about Rs 440,000 crore! The Chinese dragon won't spew that kind of money without a quid-pro-quo. Beijing's mandarins now have a clear access to the Arabian Sea through Pakistan. All this is happening while the US is busy pulling its troops out of Afghanistan. India now has to deal with a new geopolitical reality in which Washington is less interested in policing the planet while China is helping Pakistan. Some of that Saudi money coming into Pakistan may well trickle towards jihadi groups. Islamabad is cleverly hedging its bets by keeping both the Saudis and the Chinese happy. Failed state, did someone say? Meanwhile, as India warms up to Iran, Saudi Arabia is slamming Tehran for blaming it for an attack last week that killed 27 members of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard. Tehran, after blaming the Saudis, now blames Pakistan. It is all very messy but it is vital to note the attack took place on the Iranian side of Balochistan. Officially, everybody condemns terrorism but ground realities are different. India now has the lever of trade to tackle Beijing. China is the leading maker or exporter of smartphones sold in India and its investors are hot in India's digital economy. The RSS-affiliated Swadeshi Jagran Manch has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek a ban on Chinese companies in India. India imported Chinese goods worth $68 billion in 2017 and its exports to China was about $16 billion. India's best bet could stem from the fact that the US and China are also in the middle of a trade war while Beijing badly needs help to boost its sagging economy. But India also gets investments into India from China, with billion-dollar-valuation startups like PayTm gaining significantly. It is a complicated chessboard, but trade seems to be the best lever India can use to make China see reason. Indians lighting candles for Pulwama victims may well pause a moment to think of the dragon in the neighbourhood. The government could do with some help. (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India faces diplomatic challenge as Saudi Arabia and China embrace Pakistan

Hearing of Kulbhushan Jadhav's case at International court of Justice begins

Pakistan has come out of the financial crisis with the help of friendly countries and the economy has been set on the right path, the governor of the cash-strapped country's central bank has claimed.&nbsp;

Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan Tariq Bajwa's remarks coincided with the announcement by Saudi Arabia that it would invest 420 billion in Pakistan under various projects.

Bawja told an audience at a private university in Lahore on Monday that uncertainty in the economy had ended, while the government was on the right path and it was capable of meeting all economic challenges, Dawn reported.

The governor spoke about the current account deficit, which had hit the economy badly during the current financial year.

The current account deficit was the real cause of concern for the new government headed by Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khan visited friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Malaysia and Turkey to seek investment and managed to get financial help to bridge the external deficit.

Bajwa said a plan had been prepared to eliminate the current account deficit. He said the deficit was the biggest hurdle for the country and the government was still negotiating with the International Monetary Fund for a package to minimise it.

Pakistan has come out of the financial crisis with the help of friendly countries and the economy has been set on the right path, the governor of the cash-strapped country's central bank has claimed.

Pakistan has come out of the financial crisis with the help of friendly countries and the economy has been set on the right path, the governor of the cash-strapped country's central bank has claimed. Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan Tariq Bajwa's remarks coincided with the announcement by Saudi Arabia that it would invest 420 billion in Pakistan under various projects. Bawja told an audience at a private university in Lahore on Monday that uncertainty in the economy had ended, while the government was on the right path and it was capable of meeting all economic challenges, Dawn reported. The governor spoke about the current account deficit, which had hit the economy badly during the current financial year. The current account deficit was the real cause of concern for the new government headed by Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khan visited friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Malaysia and Turkey to seek investment and managed to get financial help to bridge the external deficit. Bajwa said a plan had been prepared to eliminate the current account deficit. He said the deficit was the biggest hurdle for the country and the government was still negotiating with the International Monetary Fund for a package to minimise it.

Pakistan is out of financial crisis, claims central bank governor 

Pakistan's support of terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack last week will be a focus of discussion over Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's two-day visit to India starting Tuesday, government sources told WION.&nbsp;

The prince will be coming to Delhi after visiting Pakistan, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-arabia-signs-deals-to-invest-20-billion-in-pakistan-197974">where he has announced investments of $20 billion</a>.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia had last year given Pakistan a $6 billion bailout.

India is hoping that Saudi Arabia will curtail its funding to Pakistan should it not rein <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-our-brave-security-personnel-shall-not-go-in-vain-modi-says-after-pulwama-attack-197456">its support for terror groups based on its soil</a>.&nbsp;

During his visit, Salman will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and have bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi. This will be the second meet between Modi and the prince in a span of three months. They last met on November 29 in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit.&nbsp;

"One the issues which could come up for discussion are trade and investment, defence, security including counter-terrorism is another. Renewable energy which is something that is coming up as an important area of cooperation,"&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said in his briefing last week.

Prime Minister Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia is India's fourth-largest trading partner after China, the US and Japan. India imports 17 per cent of its crude oil requirement from the kingdom. Bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia stood at $27.48 billion in 2017-18, a year-on-year increase of 9.56 per cent.&nbsp;

"The objective is to consolidate the strategic partnership which we have with the country," Raveesh Kumar had added.&nbsp;

Crown Prince&nbsp;Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor.

Saudi Arabia of course in one of the world's largest oil producers.

In April 2018, Saudi Aramco, the&nbsp;largest company in the world by revenue, signed an MoU with an Indian consortium of IOC, HPCL and BPCL&nbsp;to acquire a 50 per cent stake in India’s largest refinery project. Saudi Aramco paid $44 billion for its stake in Ratnagiri Refinery &amp; Petrochemicals Limited.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 2.7 million-strong Indian community lives in Saudi Arabia.

The Haj pilgrimage is an important component of the bilateral relations between the two countries. In 2018, Riyadh increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year.

Pakistan's support of terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack last week will be a focus of discussion over Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's two-day visit to India starting Tuesday, government sources told WION.

Pakistan's support of terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack last week will be a focus of discussion over Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's two-day visit to India starting Tuesday, government sources told WION. The prince will be coming to Delhi after visiting Pakistan, where he has announced investments of $20 billion. Saudi Arabia had last year given Pakistan a $6 billion bailout. India is hoping that Saudi Arabia will curtail its funding to Pakistan should it not rein its support for terror groups based on its soil. During his visit, Salman will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and have bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi. This will be the second meet between Modi and the prince in a span of three months. They last met on November 29 in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit. "One the issues which could come up for discussion are trade and investment, defence, security including counter-terrorism is another. Renewable energy which is something that is coming up as an important area of cooperation," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said in his briefing last week. Prime Minister Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country. Saudi Arabia is India's fourth-largest trading partner after China, the US and Japan. India imports 17 per cent of its crude oil requirement from the kingdom. Bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia stood at $27.48 billion in 2017-18, a year-on-year increase of 9.56 per cent. "The objective is to consolidate the strategic partnership which we have with the country," Raveesh Kumar had added. Crown Prince Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor. Saudi Arabia of course in one of the world's largest oil producers. In April 2018, Saudi Aramco, the largest company in the world by revenue, signed an MoU with an Indian consortium of IOC, HPCL and BPCL to acquire a 50 per cent stake in India’s largest refinery project. Saudi Aramco paid $44 billion for its stake in Ratnagiri Refinery & Petrochemicals Limited. A 2.7 million-strong Indian community lives in Saudi Arabia. The Haj pilgrimage is an important component of the bilateral relations between the two countries. In 2018, Riyadh increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year.

As Saudi crown prince visits India, Pak's terror support to be a focus

Pakistan on Sunday said that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">Pulwama terror attack</a>, was banned in 2002 and Islamabad was fulfilling its obligations on sanctions as per the law.

At least 40 CRPF personnel were killed and five injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-197988">Jammu and Kashmir</a> when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle with explosives into their bus.

Pakistan-based terror group JeM claimed responsibility for the attack on the CRPF convoy.

In a major diplomatic offensive against Islamabad after the attack, India has highlighted Pakistan's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy.

India has slammed Pakistan for stating that it had no role in the Pulwama attack carried out by Pakistan-based terror group JeM, saying Islamabad could not claim that it was unaware of the presence of terror groups on its soil as the links of such outfits to the country were there for everyone to see.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "JeM has claimed responsibility for the attack. The organisation and its leadership are located in Pakistan."

Pakistani ministers had shared the same podium with UN-proscribed terrorists, Kumar said.

Kumar said India demands that Pakistan should take immediate and verifiable action against terrorists and terror groups operating from territories under its control to create a conducive atmosphere in the region, free of terror.

But Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal rejected India's allegation that Pakistan was behind the attack.

"JeM remains a proscribed entity in Pakistan since 2002 and Pakistan is implementing its obligations on sanctions implementation," he said.

Faisal said Pakistan rejected India's allegations because these were made within a short time from the attack and without carrying out any investigations.

"These knee-jerk and pre-conceived accusations were nevertheless consistent with well-rehearsed tactics from Indian playbook after such incidents in the past," he said.

As for Indian assertions about "JeM claims of responsibility" and purported "video of the attacker", he questioned the selective and self-serving standards that India adhered to in this respect.

Faisal said, on the one hand, India accepted the unverified social media content as "gold standard" but was not ready to accept the "confessions" by its national Kulbhushan Jadhav for perpetrating violence in Pakistan.

He said India needed to introspect and respond to questions about its security and intelligence lapses that led to this attack. India owes an explanation on reports of Adil Ahmed Dar's arrest and custody since 2017.

Pakistan desired normalisation of relations with India and in his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Imran Khan followed his intention of taking two steps if India takes one, with the proposal for both Foreign Ministers to meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Faisal said.

"It was India which cancelled the meeting on baseless pretexts," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Sunday said that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack, was banned in 2002 and Islamabad was fulfilling its obligations on sanctions as per the law.

Pakistan on Sunday said that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack, was banned in 2002 and Islamabad was fulfilling its obligations on sanctions as per the law. At least 40 CRPF personnel were killed and five injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle with explosives into their bus. Pakistan-based terror group JeM claimed responsibility for the attack on the CRPF convoy. In a major diplomatic offensive against Islamabad after the attack, India has highlighted Pakistan's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. India has slammed Pakistan for stating that it had no role in the Pulwama attack carried out by Pakistan-based terror group JeM, saying Islamabad could not claim that it was unaware of the presence of terror groups on its soil as the links of such outfits to the country were there for everyone to see. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "JeM has claimed responsibility for the attack. The organisation and its leadership are located in Pakistan." Pakistani ministers had shared the same podium with UN-proscribed terrorists, Kumar said. Kumar said India demands that Pakistan should take immediate and verifiable action against terrorists and terror groups operating from territories under its control to create a conducive atmosphere in the region, free of terror. But Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal rejected India's allegation that Pakistan was behind the attack. "JeM remains a proscribed entity in Pakistan since 2002 and Pakistan is implementing its obligations on sanctions implementation," he said. Faisal said Pakistan rejected India's allegations because these were made within a short time from the attack and without carrying out any investigations. "These knee-jerk and pre-conceived accusations were nevertheless consistent with well-rehearsed tactics from Indian playbook after such incidents in the past," he said. As for Indian assertions about "JeM claims of responsibility" and purported "video of the attacker", he questioned the selective and self-serving standards that India adhered to in this respect. Faisal said, on the one hand, India accepted the unverified social media content as "gold standard" but was not ready to accept the "confessions" by its national Kulbhushan Jadhav for perpetrating violence in Pakistan. He said India needed to introspect and respond to questions about its security and intelligence lapses that led to this attack. India owes an explanation on reports of Adil Ahmed Dar's arrest and custody since 2017. Pakistan desired normalisation of relations with India and in his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Imran Khan followed his intention of taking two steps if India takes one, with the proposal for both Foreign Ministers to meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Faisal said. "It was India which cancelled the meeting on baseless pretexts," he said.

Pakistan says it is fulfilling sanctions obligations against JeM

Pakistan will confer its highest civilian honour on the Saudi crown prince on Monday, a day after he signed investment deals worth $20 billion on the first stop of an Asian tour clouded by his alleged role in the grisly murder of a dissident journalist.

President Arif Alvi will award Mohammad bin Salman the Nishan-e-Pakistan (Order of Pakistan), the foreign office said in a statement, before the crown prince leaves the country for his next stop, Islamabad's arch-rival India.&nbsp;

Pakistan is facing a serious balance of payments crisis and hopes the huge deals signed over the two-day visit -- seven separate agreements and memorandums of understanding -- will boost its struggling economy.

The tour coincides with a spike in regional tensions: India and Saudi Arabia's arch-rival Iran -- both bordering Pakistan -- have accused Islamabad of backing militant groups which have carried out bloody suicide attacks on their soil in recent days.

Hours ahead of the crown prince's arrival Sunday, Pakistan dismissed Delhi's accusations as "well-rehearsed tactics from (the) Indian playbook after such incidents in the past".

The crown prince, widely known as "MBS", got a warm welcome in Pakistan, including a 21-gun salute and an honour guard.

He is staging the visit just five months after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a fierce critic, at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul ignited a diplomatic crisis.&nbsp;

The Saudis, after initially denying any knowledge of Khashoggi's disappearance, finally acknowledged that a team killed him inside the consulate, but described it as a rogue operation that did not involve the crown prince.

Turkey said Friday it has not yet revealed all the information it has uncovered in the case, which launched a global wave of revulsion and tarnished the crown prince's reputation.

Analysts have said the tour is part of a Gulf pivot to rising Asia as a growing oil market, but also a timely demonstration to the West that MBS is not an international pariah.

The crown prince's tour is expected to finish with two days in China on Thursday and Friday.

Pakistan will confer its highest civilian honour on the Saudi crown prince on Monday, a day after he signed investment deals worth $20 billion on the first stop of an Asian tour clouded by his alleged role in the grisly murder of a dissident journalist.

Pakistan will confer its highest civilian honour on the Saudi crown prince on Monday, a day after he signed investment deals worth $20 billion on the first stop of an Asian tour clouded by his alleged role in the grisly murder of a dissident journalist. President Arif Alvi will award Mohammad bin Salman the Nishan-e-Pakistan (Order of Pakistan), the foreign office said in a statement, before the crown prince leaves the country for his next stop, Islamabad's arch-rival India. Pakistan is facing a serious balance of payments crisis and hopes the huge deals signed over the two-day visit -- seven separate agreements and memorandums of understanding -- will boost its struggling economy. The tour coincides with a spike in regional tensions: India and Saudi Arabia's arch-rival Iran -- both bordering Pakistan -- have accused Islamabad of backing militant groups which have carried out bloody suicide attacks on their soil in recent days. Hours ahead of the crown prince's arrival Sunday, Pakistan dismissed Delhi's accusations as "well-rehearsed tactics from (the) Indian playbook after such incidents in the past". The crown prince, widely known as "MBS", got a warm welcome in Pakistan, including a 21-gun salute and an honour guard. He is staging the visit just five months after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a fierce critic, at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul ignited a diplomatic crisis. The Saudis, after initially denying any knowledge of Khashoggi's disappearance, finally acknowledged that a team killed him inside the consulate, but described it as a rogue operation that did not involve the crown prince. Turkey said Friday it has not yet revealed all the information it has uncovered in the case, which launched a global wave of revulsion and tarnished the crown prince's reputation. Analysts have said the tour is part of a Gulf pivot to rising Asia as a growing oil market, but also a timely demonstration to the West that MBS is not an international pariah. The crown prince's tour is expected to finish with two days in China on Thursday and Friday.

After $20 billion deals, Pakistan to award Saudi crown prince with 'highest civilian honour'

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide welcome relief to the teetering economy of the cash-strapped South Asian country.

At a ceremony in Prime Minister House, Pakistan and Saudi officials signed MoUs for bilateral cooperation in a number of areas — a process overseen by Pakistan premier Imran Khan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-crown-prince-begins-asia-tour-in-pakistan-amid-india-tensions-197947">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman</a>, who arrived here late evening on a two-day visit.

"Today we signed MoUs. The amount of that kind of investment is $20 billion. It is big for phase one and definitely it (Saudi investment in Pakistan) will grow every month, every year in bigger numbers and it will be beneficial for both the countries," the crown prince said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

"Pakistan is going to be very, very important country in the future and we want to be sure we are part of that," he added.&nbsp;

Seven agreements, including MoUs in power, petrochemical and mining sectors, were inked as Prince Salman launched his diplomatic trip to Asia in Islamabad.

After Pakistan, the crown prince will travel to India, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

He is expected to finish the trip with a visit to China on Thursday and Friday.

Prince Salman said Saudi "cannot say no to Pakistan, whatever you (Pakistan) want we will do."&nbsp;

"For Pakistanis, this is a great day," the Pakistani premier said while addressing a dinner reception held in honour of the visiting Saudi guests at the PM House.

He said Saudi Arabia has always been there when Pakistan needed friends.&nbsp;

"I want to thank you for the way you helped us when we were in (a) bad situation," Khan told the royal guest, adding that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were now taking their relationship to a new level, where investment agreements would be mutually beneficial for the countries.

"The future is exciting for both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia after joining hands," he said.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide welcome relief to the teetering economy of the cash-strapped South Asian country.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide welcome relief to the teetering economy of the cash-strapped South Asian country. At a ceremony in Prime Minister House, Pakistan and Saudi officials signed MoUs for bilateral cooperation in a number of areas — a process overseen by Pakistan premier Imran Khan Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, who arrived here late evening on a two-day visit. "Today we signed MoUs. The amount of that kind of investment is $20 billion. It is big for phase one and definitely it (Saudi investment in Pakistan) will grow every month, every year in bigger numbers and it will be beneficial for both the countries," the crown prince said. "Pakistan is going to be very, very important country in the future and we want to be sure we are part of that," he added. Seven agreements, including MoUs in power, petrochemical and mining sectors, were inked as Prince Salman launched his diplomatic trip to Asia in Islamabad. After Pakistan, the crown prince will travel to India, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He is expected to finish the trip with a visit to China on Thursday and Friday. Prince Salman said Saudi "cannot say no to Pakistan, whatever you (Pakistan) want we will do." "For Pakistanis, this is a great day," the Pakistani premier said while addressing a dinner reception held in honour of the visiting Saudi guests at the PM House. He said Saudi Arabia has always been there when Pakistan needed friends. "I want to thank you for the way you helped us when we were in (a) bad situation," Khan told the royal guest, adding that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were now taking their relationship to a new level, where investment agreements would be mutually beneficial for the countries. "The future is exciting for both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia after joining hands," he said.

In relief for its economy, Saudi Arabia invests $20 billion in Pakistan

Pakistan's shooters were Monday granted visas to participate in the New Delhi World Cup, a top Indian shooting official told PTI, ending speculation about their presence in the event in the wake of the Pulwama terrorist attack.&nbsp;

The ISSF (International Shooting Sport Federation) event, which will offer 16 quota places for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, starts at the Dr Karni Singh Range on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Their visa has been cleared and we have received communication from the Indian High Commission and the Pakistan shooting federation. The two shooters and the manager's tickets are also being booked," National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) secretary Rajiv Bhatia told PTI.&nbsp;

Earlier, the terrorist attack had cast a doubt over Pakistan shooters' participation in the World Cup, with the country's federation saying in Karachi that it would not send its marksmen if the visas don't come through by this evening.&nbsp;

At least 40 CRPF paramilitary troopers were killed while several others injured in what is being termed as the deadliest terrorist strike in three decades in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Indian government had given clearance for the applications, but that was before last Thursday's dastardly attack.&nbsp;

Pakistan applied for visas for two shooters in the rapid fire category -- GM Bashir and Khalil Ahmed -- for the World Cup.&nbsp;

Pakistan's National Rifle Shooting Federation President Razi Ahmed had earlier said that the secretary of NRAI had assured him that visas would be granted since the Indian home ministry has given its clearance.&nbsp;

He added that air tickets had been booked and NOCs (No Objection Certificates) obtained for taking the ammunition to New Delhi for use in the championship.

Pakistan's shooters were Monday granted visas to participate in the New Delhi World Cup, a top Indian shooting official told PTI, ending speculation about their presence in the event in the wake of the Pulwama terrorist attack.

Pakistan's shooters were Monday granted visas to participate in the New Delhi World Cup, a top Indian shooting official told PTI, ending speculation about their presence in the event in the wake of the Pulwama terrorist attack. The ISSF (International Shooting Sport Federation) event, which will offer 16 quota places for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, starts at the Dr Karni Singh Range on Thursday. "Their visa has been cleared and we have received communication from the Indian High Commission and the Pakistan shooting federation. The two shooters and the manager's tickets are also being booked," National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) secretary Rajiv Bhatia told PTI. Earlier, the terrorist attack had cast a doubt over Pakistan shooters' participation in the World Cup, with the country's federation saying in Karachi that it would not send its marksmen if the visas don't come through by this evening. At least 40 CRPF paramilitary troopers were killed while several others injured in what is being termed as the deadliest terrorist strike in three decades in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian government had given clearance for the applications, but that was before last Thursday's dastardly attack. Pakistan applied for visas for two shooters in the rapid fire category -- GM Bashir and Khalil Ahmed -- for the World Cup. Pakistan's National Rifle Shooting Federation President Razi Ahmed had earlier said that the secretary of NRAI had assured him that visas would be granted since the Indian home ministry has given its clearance. He added that air tickets had been booked and NOCs (No Objection Certificates) obtained for taking the ammunition to New Delhi for use in the championship.

Pakistan shooters granted visas for New Delhi World Cup

Pregnant, desperate, and poor, Pakistani mother Zameena faced a stark choice: risk her life by having a secret abortion, or risk her life bearing her husband a sixth child.&nbsp;

In the end, she opted for the former, one of more than two million women a year to do so in a country where religious leaders are critical of family planning measures and there is a lack of sex education and access to contraception.

Almost half of all pregnancies in Pakistan -- around 4.2 million each year -- are unplanned and around 54 per cent of those end in termination, according to a report by US research firm Guttmacher Institute.

"Three years ago, when my daughter was born, the doctor told me that I should stop having babies because it would be bad for my health," said Zameena, using an assumed name, from her home in the northwest city of Peshawar.

"But whenever I say that to my husband, he tells me to trust God," the 35-year-old added. "My husband is a religious man... he wants to have a line of sons."

Decades ago, a family planning campaign with the slogan "do bache hi ache" or "two children is good" was rejected by religious leaders as well as nationalists who wanted a bigger population to rival the 1.2 billion people in neighbouring India.

Today with a population of around 207 million, Pakistan's baby boom is stretching resources beyond capacity and experts warn of trouble ahead.

Zameena said she frequently suggested to her husband that they practice family planning, but he refused.

"My mother-in-law had nine kids," said Zameena. "When I complain to my husband that I can't have more babies, he answers: 'If my mother didn't die, you should also stay alive'."

Abortion is allowed in Pakistan if the health of the mother is in danger. But many doctors invoke their Muslim faith and refuse to carry them out.&nbsp;

As a result, some women abort illegally and authorities largely turn a blind eye to the situation.

The preferred method is by ingesting Misoprostol, an over-the-counter drug used to treat ulcers, which causes the expulsion of the embryo. It can also cause serious complications for the mother.&nbsp;

NGO Aware Girls counsels those who call its hotline on how such drugs should be used safely and when to seek emergency or professional treatment at a clinic.

"Most of us know women who have died of an abortion," said Aware Girls co-founder Gulalai Ismail.

'Willing to do anything'&nbsp;

Zameena was one of the lucky ones -- she knew where to go for help once she decided to terminate her latest pregnancy.&nbsp;

At the other end of the Aware Girls hotline, counsellor Ayeesha reassured and advised her on what medicines to take and in which dosage.

They insist that women must never be alone when they attempt such procedures.

"My work saves women's lives. When they call, they are willing to do anything to have an abortion," explained the 26-year-old.

Ayeesha estimated that she fields around 350 calls a month. Most women who contact the NGO know very little about contraception. Access to condoms, the most well-known option, is limited and even when they can be bought, it requires the man to agree.

According to official statistics, only around 35 per cent of Pakistani women use any form of non-abortive birth control despite them being inexpensive.

Birth control pills cost just 20 rupees (0.12 euro), for example, while an IUD is available for 400 rupees (2.5 euros).

But population control is a controversial issue in Pakistan, where large families are prized.

"Authorities have not been able to make this issue an emergency for Pakistan. It is all rhetoric and political gibberish," says Dr Haroon Ibrahim of the family planning NGO Greenstar,

Zeba Sathar, a demographer in charge of another NGO, the Population Council, branded the nation's negative attitude to contraception a "systemic failure".

'Women are dying'&nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan in December acknowledged the lack of political will on the issue and promised pro-contraception campaigns using the media, cell phones, schools and mosques.

"The mullahs have a key role to play," he insisted.

But the Council of Pakistani Islamic Ideology, a religious body which advises the government, says otherwise, insisting that family planning is against Islam.

"The birth control campaign at the government level should be immediately stopped and the birth control program should be removed from the economic planning," the council told AFP.

The charity Marie Stopes, whose clinics provide post-abortion care, has profiled a typical client in Pakistan: aged in her thirties, married at 18, she is poor, uneducated and already has three children.

Such women approach the agency when backstreet abortions go wrong.

"Women are just dying... for the lack of knowledge," said Xaher Gul, an executive at Marie Stopes.

In 2012, the year of their last study, the Guttmacher Institute estimated there were 2.25 million abortions in Pakistan with 623,000 women treated for post-abortion complications.

"We have failed women in this country," warned Hassan Mohtashami, former head of the United Nations Development Programme in Pakistan.

He added: "Abortion is not a family planning method."

Pregnant, desperate, and poor, Pakistani mother Zameena faced a stark choice: risk her life by having a secret abortion, or risk her life bearing her husband a sixth child.

Pregnant, desperate, and poor, Pakistani mother Zameena faced a stark choice: risk her life by having a secret abortion, or risk her life bearing her husband a sixth child. In the end, she opted for the former, one of more than two million women a year to do so in a country where religious leaders are critical of family planning measures and there is a lack of sex education and access to contraception. Almost half of all pregnancies in Pakistan -- around 4.2 million each year -- are unplanned and around 54 per cent of those end in termination, according to a report by US research firm Guttmacher Institute. "Three years ago, when my daughter was born, the doctor told me that I should stop having babies because it would be bad for my health," said Zameena, using an assumed name, from her home in the northwest city of Peshawar. "But whenever I say that to my husband, he tells me to trust God," the 35-year-old added. "My husband is a religious man... he wants to have a line of sons." Decades ago, a family planning campaign with the slogan "do bache hi ache" or "two children is good" was rejected by religious leaders as well as nationalists who wanted a bigger population to rival the 1.2 billion people in neighbouring India. Today with a population of around 207 million, Pakistan's baby boom is stretching resources beyond capacity and experts warn of trouble ahead. Zameena said she frequently suggested to her husband that they practice family planning, but he refused. "My mother-in-law had nine kids," said Zameena. "When I complain to my husband that I can't have more babies, he answers: 'If my mother didn't die, you should also stay alive'." Abortion is allowed in Pakistan if the health of the mother is in danger. But many doctors invoke their Muslim faith and refuse to carry them out. As a result, some women abort illegally and authorities largely turn a blind eye to the situation. The preferred method is by ingesting Misoprostol, an over-the-counter drug used to treat ulcers, which causes the expulsion of the embryo. It can also cause serious complications for the mother. NGO Aware Girls counsels those who call its hotline on how such drugs should be used safely and when to seek emergency or professional treatment at a clinic. "Most of us know women who have died of an abortion," said Aware Girls co-founder Gulalai Ismail. 'Willing to do anything' Zameena was one of the lucky ones -- she knew where to go for help once she decided to terminate her latest pregnancy. At the other end of the Aware Girls hotline, counsellor Ayeesha reassured and advised her on what medicines to take and in which dosage. They insist that women must never be alone when they attempt such procedures. "My work saves women's lives. When they call, they are willing to do anything to have an abortion," explained the 26-year-old. Ayeesha estimated that she fields around 350 calls a month. Most women who contact the NGO know very little about contraception. Access to condoms, the most well-known option, is limited and even when they can be bought, it requires the man to agree. According to official statistics, only around 35 per cent of Pakistani women use any form of non-abortive birth control despite them being inexpensive. Birth control pills cost just 20 rupees (0.12 euro), for example, while an IUD is available for 400 rupees (2.5 euros). But population control is a controversial issue in Pakistan, where large families are prized. "Authorities have not been able to make this issue an emergency for Pakistan. It is all rhetoric and political gibberish," says Dr Haroon Ibrahim of the family planning NGO Greenstar, Zeba Sathar, a demographer in charge of another NGO, the Population Council, branded the nation's negative attitude to contraception a "systemic failure". 'Women are dying' Prime Minister Imran Khan in December acknowledged the lack of political will on the issue and promised pro-contraception campaigns using the media, cell phones, schools and mosques. "The mullahs have a key role to play," he insisted. But the Council of Pakistani Islamic Ideology, a religious body which advises the government, says otherwise, insisting that family planning is against Islam. "The birth control campaign at the government level should be immediately stopped and the birth control program should be removed from the economic planning," the council told AFP. The charity Marie Stopes, whose clinics provide post-abortion care, has profiled a typical client in Pakistan: aged in her thirties, married at 18, she is poor, uneducated and already has three children. Such women approach the agency when backstreet abortions go wrong. "Women are just dying... for the lack of knowledge," said Xaher Gul, an executive at Marie Stopes. In 2012, the year of their last study, the Guttmacher Institute estimated there were 2.25 million abortions in Pakistan with 623,000 women treated for post-abortion complications. "We have failed women in this country," warned Hassan Mohtashami, former head of the United Nations Development Programme in Pakistan. He added: "Abortion is not a family planning method."

Desperate measures: Pakistani women seek abortions as birth control

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-arabia-signs-deals-to-invest-20-billion-in-pakistan-197974">In </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-arabia-signs-deals-to-invest-20-billion-in-pakistan-197974">relief</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-arabia-signs-deals-to-invest-20-billion-in-pakistan-197974"> for its economy, Saudi Arabia to invest $20 billion in Pakistan</a>

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide welcome relief to the teetering economy of the cash-strapped South Asian country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-197988">J&amp;K:&nbsp;Encounter breaks out in Pulwama, 4 jawans injured</a>

A gun battle has broken out between security forces and terrorists in the Pinglan area of Pulwama. The news agency ANI reported that two to three terrorists are trapped in the area.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-aide-predicts-hundreds-of-miles-of-border-wall-by-2020-197976">Trump aide Stephen Miller predicts 'hundreds of miles' of border wall by 2020</a>

A top adviser to Donald Trump said Sunday that the&nbsp;president's emergency declaration&nbsp;could allow "hundreds of miles" of barriers to be built on the&nbsp;Mexican border&nbsp;before the 2020 election.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-chris-gayle-announces-retirement-from-odi-cricket-197975">West Indies' Chris Gayle to retire from ODIs after 2019 World Cup</a>

West Indies batsman Chris Gayle announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket after this summer’s ICC World Cup, scheduled to begin from May 30.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/california-tells-trump-that-lawsuit-over-border-wall-is-imminent-197985">California tells Trump lawsuit over border wall is 'imminent'</a>

California will "imminently" challenge President Donald Trump's declaration of a national emergency to obtain funds for&nbsp;a US-Mexico border wall, state Attorney General Xavier Becerra said on Sunday.

In relief for its economy, Saudi Arabia to invest $20 billion in Pakistan Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide welcome relief to the teetering economy of the cash-strapped South Asian country.

In relief for its economy, Saudi Arabia to invest $20 billion in Pakistan Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide welcome relief to the teetering economy of the cash-strapped South Asian country. J&K: Encounter breaks out in Pulwama, 4 jawans injured A gun battle has broken out between security forces and terrorists in the Pinglan area of Pulwama. The news agency ANI reported that two to three terrorists are trapped in the area. Trump aide Stephen Miller predicts 'hundreds of miles' of border wall by 2020 A top adviser to Donald Trump said Sunday that the president's emergency declaration could allow "hundreds of miles" of barriers to be built on the Mexican border before the 2020 election. West Indies' Chris Gayle to retire from ODIs after 2019 World Cup West Indies batsman Chris Gayle announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket after this summer’s ICC World Cup, scheduled to begin from May 30. California tells Trump lawsuit over border wall is 'imminent' California will "imminently" challenge President Donald Trump's declaration of a national emergency to obtain funds for a US-Mexico border wall, state Attorney General Xavier Becerra said on Sunday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

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

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

US, Taliban talks in Pakistan postponed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gunmen kill four soldiers in attack in Pakistan's Baluchistan

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

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

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

Official website of Pakistan's Foreign Ministry hacked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US vows to back India in war against terror

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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