Pakistani television channels may no longer show "intimate moments between couples" or "bed scenes", the conservative country's media regulator has announced, complaining of too much feminist content and warning that such "bold themes" offend viewers.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) issued its warning on Tuesday, calling on channels to respect the country's existing media guidelines and refrain from airing content that does not depict a "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-has-changed-but-still-much-work-to-do-malala-yousafzai-189223">picture of true Pakistani society</a>".

"The prevalent rampant trend of airing quite bold themes in Pakistani drama industry has resulted in massive public complaints," PEMRA said in an English-language statement.

"Indecent scenes/dialogues/extramarital relations, violence, inappropriate dressing, rape scenes, caressing, bed scenes, use of drugs and alcohol, intimate moments between couples are being glamourized in utter disregard to Pakistani culture and values," it continued.

Pakistani dramas and soap operas, many of which seek to challenge the deeply patriarchal country's conservative taboos, are immensely popular, according to data from PEMRA and Gallup Pakistan.

Many revolve around plotlines portraying social issues such as domestic violence, child abuse, misogyny, &nbsp;and women. Activists have previously hailed some as potentially powerful vehicles for grassroots change.

Last year, a soap opera dramatising the life of social media star Qandeel Baloch — infamous for her provocative selfies, until her shocking murder by her brother in 2016 — topped the charts.

Other shows highlighting the issues of so-called "honour" killings and forced marriages were also hit, despite being targeted by a wave of vitriol on social media, with people accusing the channels of spreading vulgarity and destroying social values.

In its statement, PEMRA said such dramas "depict hackneyed image of women and have confined themselves to feminist issues only... ignoring children, teenagers and men". 
&nbsp;

Pakistani television channels may no longer show "intimate moments between couples" or "bed scenes", the conservative country's media regulator has announced, complaining of too much feminist content and warning that such "bold themes" offend viewers.

Pakistani television channels may no longer show "intimate moments between couples" or "bed scenes", the conservative country's media regulator has announced, complaining of too much feminist content and warning that such "bold themes" offend viewers. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) issued its warning on Tuesday, calling on channels to respect the country's existing media guidelines and refrain from airing content that does not depict a "picture of true Pakistani society". "The prevalent rampant trend of airing quite bold themes in Pakistani drama industry has resulted in massive public complaints," PEMRA said in an English-language statement. "Indecent scenes/dialogues/extramarital relations, violence, inappropriate dressing, rape scenes, caressing, bed scenes, use of drugs and alcohol, intimate moments between couples are being glamourized in utter disregard to Pakistani culture and values," it continued. Pakistani dramas and soap operas, many of which seek to challenge the deeply patriarchal country's conservative taboos, are immensely popular, according to data from PEMRA and Gallup Pakistan. Many revolve around plotlines portraying social issues such as domestic violence, child abuse, misogyny, and women. Activists have previously hailed some as potentially powerful vehicles for grassroots change. Last year, a soap opera dramatising the life of social media star Qandeel Baloch — infamous for her provocative selfies, until her shocking murder by her brother in 2016 — topped the charts. Other shows highlighting the issues of so-called "honour" killings and forced marriages were also hit, despite being targeted by a wave of vitriol on social media, with people accusing the channels of spreading vulgarity and destroying social values. In its statement, PEMRA said such dramas "depict hackneyed image of women and have confined themselves to feminist issues only... ignoring children, teenagers and men".

Pakistan bans 'bed scenes', 'intimate moments' on TV

<a href="Don't believe in such categorisation of humans: Malala on Time Magazine ranking">Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai</a>&nbsp;says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a&nbsp;lot of work is left to be done.

Malala travelled the world and visited refugee camps — first as an internally displaced person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world, except to the home she loved.

She chose to use the memories of that time in her life to connect with 68.5 million refugees and displaced persons around the world. And now she has come out with a book to "see them, to help them, to share their stories".

In "We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World", 21-year-old Malala not only explores her own story of adjusting to a new life while longing for home, but also shares the personal stories of some of the girls she has met on her various journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives and often the only world they've ever known.

Malala was just 15 years old when she was shot by the Taliban on October 9, 2012, for speaking up for girls' education and peace.

Badly wounded, she was moved within Pakistan and then a week later, flown to Birmingham in the UK while still in an induced coma.

On March 31, 2018, she came back to Pakistan — to her home in the Swat Valley — for the first time after the attack.

"Pakistan has changed since I left. Population growth has led to congestion in some areas. There are many more houses and people in Swat than there were in 2012. But there is also more peace," she writes in the book, published by Weidenfeld &amp; Nicolson/Hachette India.

She says she stood on the side of a hill and looked across at the mountains where the Taliban once headquartered their forces in her area. "Now there are only trees and green fields."

But Malala, who won the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Kailash Satyarthi "for their struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education", feels there is much work to do in her country.

"Although I don't live there, it is still my country. It is never far from my thoughts or actions. My dream is to see all Pakistani children have access to 12 years of free, safe and quality education and working to build a great future for our country," she says.

In the book, Malala introduces some of the stories of displaced girls. After her father was murdered in the civil conflict in Columbia, Maria had to escape in the middle of the night with her four siblings and her mother who did not dare tell them she feared they would be next.

Zaynab was out of school for two years as she fled war in Yemen before finally landing in the US. Her sister, Sabreen, survived a harrowing journey from Egypt to Italy.

Marie Claire was nine when her family escaped the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They fled to Zambia but quickly discovered that the people there did not want them.

Malala is the co-founder of Malala Fund which is working for a world where all girls can learn and lead. Malala Fund advocates for resources and policy change needed to give all girls a secondary education invests in developing country educators and activists and amplifies the voices of girls fighting for change.&nbsp;

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a lot of work is left to be done.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a lot of work is left to be done. Malala travelled the world and visited refugee camps — first as an internally displaced person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world, except to the home she loved. She chose to use the memories of that time in her life to connect with 68.5 million refugees and displaced persons around the world. And now she has come out with a book to "see them, to help them, to share their stories". In "We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World", 21-year-old Malala not only explores her own story of adjusting to a new life while longing for home, but also shares the personal stories of some of the girls she has met on her various journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives and often the only world they've ever known. Malala was just 15 years old when she was shot by the Taliban on October 9, 2012, for speaking up for girls' education and peace. Badly wounded, she was moved within Pakistan and then a week later, flown to Birmingham in the UK while still in an induced coma. On March 31, 2018, she came back to Pakistan — to her home in the Swat Valley — for the first time after the attack. "Pakistan has changed since I left. Population growth has led to congestion in some areas. There are many more houses and people in Swat than there were in 2012. But there is also more peace," she writes in the book, published by Weidenfeld & Nicolson/Hachette India. She says she stood on the side of a hill and looked across at the mountains where the Taliban once headquartered their forces in her area. "Now there are only trees and green fields." But Malala, who won the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Kailash Satyarthi "for their struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education", feels there is much work to do in her country. "Although I don't live there, it is still my country. It is never far from my thoughts or actions. My dream is to see all Pakistani children have access to 12 years of free, safe and quality education and working to build a great future for our country," she says. In the book, Malala introduces some of the stories of displaced girls. After her father was murdered in the civil conflict in Columbia, Maria had to escape in the middle of the night with her four siblings and her mother who did not dare tell them she feared they would be next. Zaynab was out of school for two years as she fled war in Yemen before finally landing in the US. Her sister, Sabreen, survived a harrowing journey from Egypt to Italy. Marie Claire was nine when her family escaped the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They fled to Zambia but quickly discovered that the people there did not want them. Malala is the co-founder of Malala Fund which is working for a world where all girls can learn and lead. Malala Fund advocates for resources and policy change needed to give all girls a secondary education invests in developing country educators and activists and amplifies the voices of girls fighting for change.

Pakistan has changed but there's still much work to do: Malala Yousafzai

Militancy has "survived and morphed" inside Pakistan because of local facilitation and recruitment networks, a leading newspaper commented on Tuesday, days after a prominent think-tank said the usual "cat-and-mouse game" continued between state authorities and banned outfits in the country in 2018.&nbsp;

There were a total of 262 terrorist attacks in Pakistan last year, including 19 suicide and gun-and-suicide coordinated attacks, killing 595 people, besides injuring 1,030 others, according to Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS).&nbsp;

Though terror attacks posted a 29 per cent decrease from the previous year, the Islamabad-based think-tank said the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, faced the highest number of terrorist attacks compared to all other regions of Pakistan.&nbsp;

A total of 125 reported attacks from the province claimed 196 lives and inflicted injuries on another 376 people.

The recently-released report noted that in 2018, "the usual cat-and-mouse game continued between state authorities and banned outfits."&nbsp;

"One set of administrative measure aimed at banning them was followed by another of unbanning them: Several banned leaders who were barred from travelling out of district, under the fourth schedule category, not only organised street protests but forced the government to remove their names. "Others even tried to contest elections; when stopped, they changed the organisation's names," the report said, referring to the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD), which launched a political front Milli Muslim League (MML) to contest the July 25 general elections in Pakistan.

The MML contested the elections on the platform of Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT), a "dormant" political entity, as the JuD's political outfit, the MML, is yet to be registered as a political party.

"Apparently, Pakistan is struggling to convince the world by projecting its anti-militant actions and ensuing sacrifices," the report said.

The problem is compounded with the absence of any coherent policy of reintegrating and mainstreaming certain groups. As a result, attempts at mainstreaming them are seen as deliberate attempts to excluding those already mainstreamed, it said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Dawn newspaper, in an editorial on Tuesday, following the PIPS report, noted that militancy has "survived and morphed inside Pakistan because of local facilitation and recruitment networks."&nbsp;

"On those issues, the Pakistani state has not said much publicly. While counterterrorism operations certainly appear to be continuing, the more wide-ranging National Action Plan is still seemingly of secondary interest to the civil and military leaderships," the editorial said.

The US, India and Afghanistan have repeatedly asked Pakistan to rein-in the terror groups that have been operating from safe havens within the country.

The editorial noted that the gains in the long fight against militancy have been significant and ought to prove durable. Yet, an analysis of terrorism data suggests that the threat of militancy and terrorism is far from over, and, indeed, may be morphing into a new and possibly more prolonged phase of violence.

"Unhappily, the public discourse on terrorism in Pakistan is superficial and polarising," it commented.

The country must never be allowed to return to its darkest years at the turn of the decade. Too much was lost and too many citizens suffered in part because of policy mistakes and miscalculations, the editorial said.

The evolving threat of militancy and terrorism in Pakistan and the region must be carefully analysed, and a response methodically crafted.&nbsp;

"If institutions work together in a true spirit of cooperation, further successes are surely well within reach," the editorial noted.&nbsp;

Militancy has "survived and morphed" inside Pakistan because of local facilitation and recruitment networks, a leading newspaper commented on Tuesday, days after a prominent think-tank said the usual "cat-and-mouse game" continued between state authorities and banned outfits in the country in 2018.

Militancy has "survived and morphed" inside Pakistan because of local facilitation and recruitment networks, a leading newspaper commented on Tuesday, days after a prominent think-tank said the usual "cat-and-mouse game" continued between state authorities and banned outfits in the country in 2018. There were a total of 262 terrorist attacks in Pakistan last year, including 19 suicide and gun-and-suicide coordinated attacks, killing 595 people, besides injuring 1,030 others, according to Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS). Though terror attacks posted a 29 per cent decrease from the previous year, the Islamabad-based think-tank said the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, faced the highest number of terrorist attacks compared to all other regions of Pakistan. A total of 125 reported attacks from the province claimed 196 lives and inflicted injuries on another 376 people. The recently-released report noted that in 2018, "the usual cat-and-mouse game continued between state authorities and banned outfits." "One set of administrative measure aimed at banning them was followed by another of unbanning them: Several banned leaders who were barred from travelling out of district, under the fourth schedule category, not only organised street protests but forced the government to remove their names. "Others even tried to contest elections; when stopped, they changed the organisation's names," the report said, referring to the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD), which launched a political front Milli Muslim League (MML) to contest the July 25 general elections in Pakistan. The MML contested the elections on the platform of Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT), a "dormant" political entity, as the JuD's political outfit, the MML, is yet to be registered as a political party. "Apparently, Pakistan is struggling to convince the world by projecting its anti-militant actions and ensuing sacrifices," the report said. The problem is compounded with the absence of any coherent policy of reintegrating and mainstreaming certain groups. As a result, attempts at mainstreaming them are seen as deliberate attempts to excluding those already mainstreamed, it said. Meanwhile, the Dawn newspaper, in an editorial on Tuesday, following the PIPS report, noted that militancy has "survived and morphed inside Pakistan because of local facilitation and recruitment networks." "On those issues, the Pakistani state has not said much publicly. While counterterrorism operations certainly appear to be continuing, the more wide-ranging National Action Plan is still seemingly of secondary interest to the civil and military leaderships," the editorial said. The US, India and Afghanistan have repeatedly asked Pakistan to rein-in the terror groups that have been operating from safe havens within the country. The editorial noted that the gains in the long fight against militancy have been significant and ought to prove durable. Yet, an analysis of terrorism data suggests that the threat of militancy and terrorism is far from over, and, indeed, may be morphing into a new and possibly more prolonged phase of violence. "Unhappily, the public discourse on terrorism in Pakistan is superficial and polarising," it commented. The country must never be allowed to return to its darkest years at the turn of the decade. Too much was lost and too many citizens suffered in part because of policy mistakes and miscalculations, the editorial said. The evolving threat of militancy and terrorism in Pakistan and the region must be carefully analysed, and a response methodically crafted. "If institutions work together in a true spirit of cooperation, further successes are surely well within reach," the editorial noted.

'Terror groups thrive in Pakistan due to local facilitation and recruitment networks'

Pakistan's flag carrier PIA has asked some of its cabin crew with "excess weight" to shed some kilos within six months or risk being grounded, in a bid to make them "slim, smart and fit", a media report said.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also issued a suggested weight chart for differing heights and body types, The Express Tribune reported.

Those already "on weight check" need to report monthly to a "grooming cell" to receive clearance to fly, it said.

The carrier's general manager of flight services Aamir Bashir issued an order on the first day of 2019, saying official excess weight limits would be cut back by five pounds (2.26 kgs) a month, the report said.

In a memo distributed to approximately 1,800 cabin crew, PIA said they must trim down or face being grounded, the report said.

The airline said it is cracking down on what it terms the "excess weight" of some of its cabin crew.

Currently, flight attendants, who are 30 pounds (13.6 kgs) over are still eligible for flight duty, the report said.

According to the airline's weight chart, for a "medium frame" woman of 5 feet 7 inches height (1.7 meters), for example, the guide is 133 to 147 pounds (60 to 66 kgs).

"Weight check of all the cabin crew will be carried out at their base stations respectively and comprehensive data will be maintained for perusal of management," the news report quoted the memo as saying.

Around 100, over 5 per cent, of the crew would need to lose weight by July 1 to avoid grounding, Mashhood Tajwar, a PIA spokesman was quoted as saying in the report.

He described the crackdown on overweight flight crew as a "regular, routine matter," and suggested that the memo was issued as standards for weight had lapsed over time.

It was issued to ensure that the flight attendants were "slim, smart and fit", Tajwar said.

"No one would like to have shabby crew in the aircraft," he said, adding that PIA had received complaints about "obese" flight attendants.

Tajwar said the initiative was put in place for reasons of appearance and health, and insisted that PIA was not alone in insisting their cabin crews hit weight targets, the report added.

PIA has been in losses for years but successive governments have failed to improve its financial situation.

Its accumulated losses surged to Rs 36,000 crore by the end of June last year, which, according to the finance ministry, speaks volumes about the persistently deteriorating performance of the carrier.

Pakistan's flag carrier PIA has asked some of its cabin crew with "excess weight" to shed some kilos within six months or risk being grounded, in a bid to make them "slim, smart and fit", a media report said.

Pakistan's flag carrier PIA has asked some of its cabin crew with "excess weight" to shed some kilos within six months or risk being grounded, in a bid to make them "slim, smart and fit", a media report said. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also issued a suggested weight chart for differing heights and body types, The Express Tribune reported. Those already "on weight check" need to report monthly to a "grooming cell" to receive clearance to fly, it said. The carrier's general manager of flight services Aamir Bashir issued an order on the first day of 2019, saying official excess weight limits would be cut back by five pounds (2.26 kgs) a month, the report said. In a memo distributed to approximately 1,800 cabin crew, PIA said they must trim down or face being grounded, the report said. The airline said it is cracking down on what it terms the "excess weight" of some of its cabin crew. Currently, flight attendants, who are 30 pounds (13.6 kgs) over are still eligible for flight duty, the report said. According to the airline's weight chart, for a "medium frame" woman of 5 feet 7 inches height (1.7 meters), for example, the guide is 133 to 147 pounds (60 to 66 kgs). "Weight check of all the cabin crew will be carried out at their base stations respectively and comprehensive data will be maintained for perusal of management," the news report quoted the memo as saying. Around 100, over 5 per cent, of the crew would need to lose weight by July 1 to avoid grounding, Mashhood Tajwar, a PIA spokesman was quoted as saying in the report. He described the crackdown on overweight flight crew as a "regular, routine matter," and suggested that the memo was issued as standards for weight had lapsed over time. It was issued to ensure that the flight attendants were "slim, smart and fit", Tajwar said. "No one would like to have shabby crew in the aircraft," he said, adding that PIA had received complaints about "obese" flight attendants. Tajwar said the initiative was put in place for reasons of appearance and health, and insisted that PIA was not alone in insisting their cabin crews hit weight targets, the report added. PIA has been in losses for years but successive governments have failed to improve its financial situation. Its accumulated losses surged to Rs 36,000 crore by the end of June last year, which, according to the finance ministry, speaks volumes about the persistently deteriorating performance of the carrier.

Lose weight or face the axe: Pakistan International Airlines tells 'obese' cabin crew

At least 595 people, including <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-says-pak-based-terror-groups-continue-to-train-cadres-to-infiltrate-by-sea-187875">Pakistani security officials</a>, have been killed and 1,030 others injured in 262 terror attacks in the country during 2018, according to a report.

<a href="http://13.232.42.114/south-asia/surgical-strike-figment-of-indian-imagination-pakistan-188101">Most of the attacks were targeted</a> at security and law enforcement agencies. Among these attacks, the most menacing were carried out on political leaders and workers.

The deadliest attacks took place in the run-up to the July 25 general elections, the Pak Institute for Peace Studies' (PIPS), an Islamabad-based think tank, said in its annual Pakistan Security Report 2018.

In July, a suicide bomber killed 128 people at an election rally in southwestern Pakistan in the second election-related attack. The bombing was the most deadly attack in Pakistan in over three years.

It stated that there was a "29 per cent decline in terrorist attacks and 27 per cent in consequent fatalities in 2018, compared to previous year".

The PIPS said that about 38 per cent of the total 595 people killed in acts of terrorism in Pakistan in 2018 was the result of five lethal attacks claimed by ISIS in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

"Balochistan was the only region where terrorism-related killings surged, by over 23 per cent, when compared to 2017; most of these fatalities resulted from attacks by religiously-inspired militant groups," according to the report.

Around 171 attacks in entire Pakistan were perpetrated by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its splinter groups Jamaatul Ahrar, Hizbul Ahrar and others, which killed 449 people.

Nationalist insurgent groups, mostly in Balochistan and a few in Sindh, carried out 80 attacks, martyring 96 people.

"As many as 11 terrorist attacks were sectarian-related, killing 50 people and injuring 45 others," it said.

More than half of these attacks, around 136, hit security and law enforcement agencies.

The security forces killed a total of 120 militants in 2018 as compared to 524 in 2017.

It noted that 24 attacks were against political leaders and workers, in which 218 people were killed martyred and 394 injured.

A total of 131 cross-border attacks from Pakistan's borders with Afghanistan, India, and Iran, claiming 111 lives and injuring 290 others.

Balochistan remained the centre of attention with 354 people martyred in attacks while 59 per cent of the total toll in Pakistan took place in the province.

The PIPS report called for comprehensive policy and action to completely end violence from the country.

It said that questions were raised on the status of those banned individuals who signed Paigham-e-Pakistan - a violence-opposing decree but continued to hold protests and even paralysing cities.&nbsp;

The report stated that there was a '29 per cent decline in terrorist attacks and 27 per cent in consequent fatalities in 2018, compared to previous year'.

At least 595 people, including Pakistani security officials, have been killed and 1,030 others injured in 262 terror attacks in the country during 2018, according to a report. Most of the attacks were targeted at security and law enforcement agencies. Among these attacks, the most menacing were carried out on political leaders and workers. The deadliest attacks took place in the run-up to the July 25 general elections, the Pak Institute for Peace Studies' (PIPS), an Islamabad-based think tank, said in its annual Pakistan Security Report 2018. In July, a suicide bomber killed 128 people at an election rally in southwestern Pakistan in the second election-related attack. The bombing was the most deadly attack in Pakistan in over three years. It stated that there was a "29 per cent decline in terrorist attacks and 27 per cent in consequent fatalities in 2018, compared to previous year". The PIPS said that about 38 per cent of the total 595 people killed in acts of terrorism in Pakistan in 2018 was the result of five lethal attacks claimed by ISIS in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. "Balochistan was the only region where terrorism-related killings surged, by over 23 per cent, when compared to 2017; most of these fatalities resulted from attacks by religiously-inspired militant groups," according to the report. Around 171 attacks in entire Pakistan were perpetrated by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its splinter groups Jamaatul Ahrar, Hizbul Ahrar and others, which killed 449 people. Nationalist insurgent groups, mostly in Balochistan and a few in Sindh, carried out 80 attacks, martyring 96 people. "As many as 11 terrorist attacks were sectarian-related, killing 50 people and injuring 45 others," it said. More than half of these attacks, around 136, hit security and law enforcement agencies. The security forces killed a total of 120 militants in 2018 as compared to 524 in 2017. It noted that 24 attacks were against political leaders and workers, in which 218 people were killed martyred and 394 injured. A total of 131 cross-border attacks from Pakistan's borders with Afghanistan, India, and Iran, claiming 111 lives and injuring 290 others. Balochistan remained the centre of attention with 354 people martyred in attacks while 59 per cent of the total toll in Pakistan took place in the province. The PIPS report called for comprehensive policy and action to completely end violence from the country. It said that questions were raised on the status of those banned individuals who signed Paigham-e-Pakistan - a violence-opposing decree but continued to hold protests and even paralysing cities.

262 terror attacks killed 595 people in Pakistan in 2018: Report

Pakistan's former envoy to the US Hussain Haqqani, who is wanted by the country's Supreme Court in connection with cases of treason and embezzlement of funds, has said that he did not receive any warrants about inquiries from the authorities, according to a media reports on Sunday.

Pakistan has initiated a process of seeking the extradition of Haqqani from the US through the foreign office on embezzlement charges after it failed to get it through Interpol.

The Supreme Court had issued warrants to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to produce Haqqani, a prominent critic of Pakistan's military and political leadership, before it in January last year, but the Interpol has refused to issue an arrest warrant against him.

Haqqani termed the new allegations against him as "manufactured".

"It seems to be another gimmick aimed to gullible Pakistani media. New allegations filed more than seven years after my forced resignation are obviously manufactured," the Dawn paper quoted Haqqani as saying in a statement.

"I doubt that Pakistan government will initiate extradition proceedings that are certain to fail and, in the process, open up examination of their secret expenditures in the US," he said.

Haqqani, 62, was Pakistan's Ambassador to the US from May 27, 2008 to November 22, 2011, which is considered as one of the most tumultuous period of the US-Pakistan relationship.

He was in the centre of the controversy over allegedly sending a memorandum to the US military chief Admiral Mike Mullen in 2011 seeking his direct intervention to avert a possible overthrow of the PPP government by the military.

A commission constituted by the Supreme Court commonly known as the 'Memogate Commission' had in its report held Haqqani as the originator and architect of the memo, the report said.

As part of the extradition process, Pakistan's Interior ministry has also transferred a 355-page extradition dossier to the foreign office which will be sent to the State Department for Haqqani's extradition.

Pakistan's former envoy to the US Hussain Haqqani, who is wanted by the country's Supreme Court in connection with cases of treason and embezzlement of funds, has said that he did not receive any warrants about inquiries from the authorities, according to a media reports on Sunday.

Pakistan's former envoy to the US Hussain Haqqani, who is wanted by the country's Supreme Court in connection with cases of treason and embezzlement of funds, has said that he did not receive any warrants about inquiries from the authorities, according to a media reports on Sunday. Pakistan has initiated a process of seeking the extradition of Haqqani from the US through the foreign office on embezzlement charges after it failed to get it through Interpol. The Supreme Court had issued warrants to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to produce Haqqani, a prominent critic of Pakistan's military and political leadership, before it in January last year, but the Interpol has refused to issue an arrest warrant against him. Haqqani termed the new allegations against him as "manufactured". "It seems to be another gimmick aimed to gullible Pakistani media. New allegations filed more than seven years after my forced resignation are obviously manufactured," the Dawn paper quoted Haqqani as saying in a statement. "I doubt that Pakistan government will initiate extradition proceedings that are certain to fail and, in the process, open up examination of their secret expenditures in the US," he said. Haqqani, 62, was Pakistan's Ambassador to the US from May 27, 2008 to November 22, 2011, which is considered as one of the most tumultuous period of the US-Pakistan relationship. He was in the centre of the controversy over allegedly sending a memorandum to the US military chief Admiral Mike Mullen in 2011 seeking his direct intervention to avert a possible overthrow of the PPP government by the military. A commission constituted by the Supreme Court commonly known as the 'Memogate Commission' had in its report held Haqqani as the originator and architect of the memo, the report said. As part of the extradition process, Pakistan's Interior ministry has also transferred a 355-page extradition dossier to the foreign office which will be sent to the State Department for Haqqani's extradition.

Haqqani denies getting any warrant from Pak over inquiries

Pakistan on Sunday said the UAE has "almost finalised" investment plan for the setting up of an oil refinery in the country as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-welcomes-abu-dhabi-prince-sheikh-mohamed-bin-zayed-drives-him-to-pm-house-188542">Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi met Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> and discussed economic assistance to the cash-strapped country to bolster its foreign exchange reserves.&nbsp;

Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, who was on a day-long visit to the country after nearly 12 years, was received by Khan upon his arrival at Nur Khan airbase in Rawalpindi and the Prime Minister personally drove him to his residency for a welcome ceremony.

He was given a guard of honour and a fly-past during the red carpet welcome.

The Prince and the Prime Minister held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks between the top officials of the two sides as Pakistan seeks economic assistance to bolster its foreign exchange reserves and the government's fiscal policies.

Both delegations discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual, regional and international interest.

Pakistan, reeling under severe financial crisis, reached out to some "friendly countries" for economic assistance including Saudi Arabia, China and the UAE since Prime Minister Khan assumed office in August.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the UAE has already promised to provide US $3 billion assistance and the Crown Prince also discussed investment to set up an oil refinery.

"The two side have almost finalised investment for setting up of a refinery," he said.

He said the two countries enjoyed traditional friendship and the Crown Prince said that he considered Pakistan as his "second home".

Foreign Office said this was the third interaction between the leadership of Pakistan and the UAE in less than three months, which is a "testimony to the special nature of our brotherly relations with this important GCC country".

"The UAE is Pakistan's largest trading partner in the Middle East and a major source of investments. It is home to more than 1.6 million expatriate community which contributes around US $4.5 billion annually to the GDP,"&nbsp;the foreign office said.

It said Pakistan and the UAE are working closely to transform the existing special relations into a "long-term strategic economic partnership", as agreed between the two leaders during Prime Minister Khan's visit to the Emirates in November.

It said that apart from a "generous US $3 billion support to help Pakistan overcome its balance of payment crisis, provision oil on deferred payment was also under discussion."

Khan visited the UAE twice since August to seek economic assistance to ward off the country's foreign exchange crisis.

Pakistan and the UAE last week finalised the terms and conditions of a US $6.2 billion support package for Islamabad to help address the balance of payments crisis.

According to a statement released by the Pakistan government, Prime Minister Khan thanked the UAE for extending balance of payment support of US $3 million and said this financial support shows the continued commitment and steady friendship between the two countries.

The two sides also resolved to take all necessary measures to deal with matters related to trade enhancement and decided to form a Task Force to achieve this objective, the statement said.&nbsp;

Pakistan's all-weather ally China has also pledged to provide a generous aid to Islamabad to overcome its financial woes. Beijing has not yet revealed the quantum of its financial support.

Pakistan is negotiating a US $8 billion bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to overcome a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy.

Pakistan apprehends the IMF will come with stringent conditions of austerity besides scrutiny of US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects whose terms till now remained confidential.

The Trump administration is making all efforts to ensure that any IMF loan to Pakistan is not used to repay its Chinese debt.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;government statement said the two sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and expressed their resolve to work closely to root out the scourge.

To counter white collar crimes, including money laundering, the two leaders instructed the concerned authorities to expedite the finalisation of the Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement, the statement said.

Khan also briefed the Crown Prince about the efforts being taken by Pakistan to support and facilitate the Afghan-owned and Afghan-led reconciliation process. The two leaders agreed to work closely for the lasting peace and stability of Afghanistan.

The Pakistani Prime Minister congratulated the leadership of the UAE for declaring 2019 as the 'Year of Tolerance'.

Pakistan on Sunday said the UAE has "almost finalised" investment plan for the setting up of an oil refinery in the country as the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi met Prime Minister Imran Khan and discussed economic assistance to the cash-strapped country to bolster its foreign exchange reserves.

Pakistan on Sunday said the UAE has "almost finalised" investment plan for the setting up of an oil refinery in the country as the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi met Prime Minister Imran Khan and discussed economic assistance to the cash-strapped country to bolster its foreign exchange reserves. Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, who was on a day-long visit to the country after nearly 12 years, was received by Khan upon his arrival at Nur Khan airbase in Rawalpindi and the Prime Minister personally drove him to his residency for a welcome ceremony. He was given a guard of honour and a fly-past during the red carpet welcome. The Prince and the Prime Minister held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks between the top officials of the two sides as Pakistan seeks economic assistance to bolster its foreign exchange reserves and the government's fiscal policies. Both delegations discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual, regional and international interest. Pakistan, reeling under severe financial crisis, reached out to some "friendly countries" for economic assistance including Saudi Arabia, China and the UAE since Prime Minister Khan assumed office in August. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the UAE has already promised to provide US $3 billion assistance and the Crown Prince also discussed investment to set up an oil refinery. "The two side have almost finalised investment for setting up of a refinery," he said. He said the two countries enjoyed traditional friendship and the Crown Prince said that he considered Pakistan as his "second home". Foreign Office said this was the third interaction between the leadership of Pakistan and the UAE in less than three months, which is a "testimony to the special nature of our brotherly relations with this important GCC country". "The UAE is Pakistan's largest trading partner in the Middle East and a major source of investments. It is home to more than 1.6 million expatriate community which contributes around US $4.5 billion annually to the GDP," the foreign office said. It said Pakistan and the UAE are working closely to transform the existing special relations into a "long-term strategic economic partnership", as agreed between the two leaders during Prime Minister Khan's visit to the Emirates in November. It said that apart from a "generous US $3 billion support to help Pakistan overcome its balance of payment crisis, provision oil on deferred payment was also under discussion." Khan visited the UAE twice since August to seek economic assistance to ward off the country's foreign exchange crisis. Pakistan and the UAE last week finalised the terms and conditions of a US $6.2 billion support package for Islamabad to help address the balance of payments crisis. According to a statement released by the Pakistan government, Prime Minister Khan thanked the UAE for extending balance of payment support of US $3 million and said this financial support shows the continued commitment and steady friendship between the two countries. The two sides also resolved to take all necessary measures to deal with matters related to trade enhancement and decided to form a Task Force to achieve this objective, the statement said. Pakistan's all-weather ally China has also pledged to provide a generous aid to Islamabad to overcome its financial woes. Beijing has not yet revealed the quantum of its financial support. Pakistan is negotiating a US $8 billion bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to overcome a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy. Pakistan apprehends the IMF will come with stringent conditions of austerity besides scrutiny of US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects whose terms till now remained confidential. The Trump administration is making all efforts to ensure that any IMF loan to Pakistan is not used to repay its Chinese debt. The government statement said the two sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and expressed their resolve to work closely to root out the scourge. To counter white collar crimes, including money laundering, the two leaders instructed the concerned authorities to expedite the finalisation of the Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement, the statement said. Khan also briefed the Crown Prince about the efforts being taken by Pakistan to support and facilitate the Afghan-owned and Afghan-led reconciliation process. The two leaders agreed to work closely for the lasting peace and stability of Afghanistan. The Pakistani Prime Minister congratulated the leadership of the UAE for declaring 2019 as the 'Year of Tolerance'.

Abu Dhabi Crown Prince holds talks with Khan, discusses oil refinery in Pakistan

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was on Sunday suspended for one Test because of his team's slow over rate as they <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-pakistan-by-nine-wickets-to-clinch-series-188534">beat Pakistan in Cape Town</a>.

The ICC announced the punishment in a statement after South Africa won the second Test by nine wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Du Plessis and his players were also fined a percentage of their match fees.

South Africa picked an all-pace attack for the match. Their four bowlers shared just under 122 overs as they twice bowled Pakistan out. Half an hour was added to play the first three days because of the slow over rate.

After the three umpires charged the home team, match referee David Boon, the former Australia batsman, ruled South Africa were one over short of the minimum target and imposed the punishments.&nbsp;

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South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has been suspended for one Test for a second minor over-rate offence within 12 months. 
 
READ 👇<a href="https://t.co/4zfyF2onJT">https://t.co/4zfyF2onJT</a> <a href="https://t.co/KbTUjgUWg0">pic.twitter.com/KbTUjgUWg0</a>
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Under ICC rules, players are fined 10 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double.

Du Plessis had previously been found guilty of what the ICC deemed a "minor over-rate offence" against India at Centurion on January 17 last year and so, the statement said, "this offence constituted his second minor over-rate offence within a 12-month period."

Du Plessis scored a crucial 106 in South Africa's first innings at Newlands, but he will also have to be replaced as captain in the third test which starts in Johannesburg on Friday, 11 January.

Both Aiden Markram and Hashim Amla have captaincy experience but they each ended the Test nursing injuries. Markram was unable to bat on Sunday while Amla had to retire hurt after being hit by a rising delivery.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was on Sunday suspended for one Test because of his team's slow over rate as they beat Pakistan in Cape Town. The ICC announced the punishment in a statement after South Africa won the second Test by nine wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was on Sunday suspended for one Test because of his team's slow over rate as they beat Pakistan in Cape Town. The ICC announced the punishment in a statement after South Africa won the second Test by nine wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Du Plessis and his players were also fined a percentage of their match fees. South Africa picked an all-pace attack for the match. Their four bowlers shared just under 122 overs as they twice bowled Pakistan out. Half an hour was added to play the first three days because of the slow over rate. After the three umpires charged the home team, match referee David Boon, the former Australia batsman, ruled South Africa were one over short of the minimum target and imposed the punishments. South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has been suspended for one Test for a second minor over-rate offence within 12 months. READ 👇https://t.co/4zfyF2onJT pic.twitter.com/KbTUjgUWg0 — ICC (@ICC) January 6, 2019 × Under ICC rules, players are fined 10 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double. Du Plessis had previously been found guilty of what the ICC deemed a "minor over-rate offence" against India at Centurion on January 17 last year and so, the statement said, "this offence constituted his second minor over-rate offence within a 12-month period." Du Plessis scored a crucial 106 in South Africa's first innings at Newlands, but he will also have to be replaced as captain in the third test which starts in Johannesburg on Friday, 11 January. Both Aiden Markram and Hashim Amla have captaincy experience but they each ended the Test nursing injuries. Markram was unable to bat on Sunday while Amla had to retire hurt after being hit by a rising delivery.

South Africa skipper Du Plessis suspended for third Test

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan received Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Islamabad airport on Sunday and then drove him himself to the PM House.&nbsp;

A formation of air force jets marked Zayed's arrival with a flyby. Zayed was also given a guard of honour at PM House and a 21-gun salute.&nbsp;

The UAE recently announced aid to Pakistan which is currently suffering from a massive <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-balance-of-payments-worsens-likely-to-approach-imf-next-month-126485">balance of payments crisis</a>, which explains the red carpet welcome.&nbsp;

The video of Zayed being driven by Khan was put out on his official Instagram account.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsSQhFsHEZs/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Prime Minister Imran Khan drives His Highness Sheikh Muhamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces to Islamabad from Nur Khan Airbase. 🇵🇰🇦🇪 #PMIK</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/imrankhan.pti/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Imran Khan</a> (@imrankhan.pti) on <time datetime="2019-01-06T07:49:01+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 5, 2019 at 11:49pm PST</time>
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Khan received praises on the internet for personally welcoming the Crown Prince and reviving the ties with UAE.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> takes the wheel <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MohamedBinZayed</a> 
 
Sheikh Muhamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi arrives at Noor Khan Airbase Islamabad, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> <a href="https://t.co/cDCNPIclYZ">pic.twitter.com/cDCNPIclYZ</a>
— Rana Shahroz (@LOVER_OF_PTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/LOVER_OF_PTI/status/1081820044873646081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed al Nahyan arrived in Pakistan at the Invitation of Prime Minister Imran Khan. 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> received the Crown Prince and is him self Driving him to PM House.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMIK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMIK</a> <a href="https://t.co/yS2Xx6ckjs">pic.twitter.com/yS2Xx6ckjs</a>
— Ali Hashmi (Audiology) (@alihashmi903) <a href="https://twitter.com/alihashmi903/status/1081817696554151936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister - Imran Khan gears up for revitalizing the Pakistan-UAE ties, taking up the driving seat as he receives Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZayedAlNahyan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZayedAlNahyan</a> who arrives in Pakistan after 12 YEARS. It's going to be quite an interesting day! 😎 <a href="https://t.co/wwWBSvkKKp">pic.twitter.com/wwWBSvkKKp</a>
— Maleeha Hashmey (@MaleehaHashmey) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaleehaHashmey/status/1081828374647992320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Imran Khan receiving the the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and driving the car himself. This man is giving it his all for the success of this country and its people. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrimeMinisterImrankhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrimeMinisterImrankhan</a> <a href="https://t.co/kyjMsENenE">pic.twitter.com/kyjMsENenE</a>
— Talha Siddiqui (@_TalhaSiddiqui) <a href="https://twitter.com/_TalhaSiddiqui/status/1081847231517474823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Banners on the road depicted the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uae-crown-prince-arrives-in-pakistan-likely-to-announce-62-billion-aid-188514">crown prince</a> and read "Zayed in Our Hearts" and "Pakistan-UAE partner in development".

The United Arab Emirates is Pakistan's largest trading partner in the Middle East and a major investment source, Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement ahead of the visit.

More than 1.5 million Pakistanis live in the Gulf state and send millions of dollars in remittances back home, it added.

The crown prince last visited Pakistan in January 2007.

The UAE announced in December it would deposit $3 billion in the central bank of Pakistan to help "enhance liquidity" as the country struggles with a widening balance of payments crisis.

The Pakistani rupee plunged almost five per cent to a record low at the end of November, after what appeared to be the sixth devaluation by the central bank in the past year.&nbsp;

It also secured $6 billion in funding from Saudi Arabia and struck a 12-month deal for a cash lifeline during Khan's visit to the kingdom in October.

Islamabad has also received billions of dollars in Chinese loans to finance ambitious infrastructure projects.

A team from the International Monetary Fund visited Pakistan in November to discuss a possible bailout with officials but talks ended without agreement.

(With inputs from AFP)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan received Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Islamabad airport on Sunday and then drove him himself to the PM House.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan received Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Islamabad airport on Sunday and then drove him himself to the PM House. A formation of air force jets marked Zayed's arrival with a flyby. Zayed was also given a guard of honour at PM House and a 21-gun salute. The UAE recently announced aid to Pakistan which is currently suffering from a massive balance of payments crisis, which explains the red carpet welcome. The video of Zayed being driven by Khan was put out on his official Instagram account. View this post on Instagram Prime Minister Imran Khan drives His Highness Sheikh Muhamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces to Islamabad from Nur Khan Airbase. 🇵🇰🇦🇪 #PMIK A post shared by Imran Khan (@imrankhan.pti) on Jan 5, 2019 at 11:49pm PST × Khan received praises on the internet for personally welcoming the Crown Prince and reviving the ties with UAE. Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI takes the wheel @MohamedBinZayed Sheikh Muhamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi arrives at Noor Khan Airbase Islamabad, #Pakistan #UAE pic.twitter.com/cDCNPIclYZ — Rana Shahroz (@LOVER_OF_PTI) January 6, 2019 × Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed al Nahyan arrived in Pakistan at the Invitation of Prime Minister Imran Khan. PM @ImranKhanPTI received the Crown Prince and is him self Driving him to PM House.#PMIK pic.twitter.com/yS2Xx6ckjs — Ali Hashmi (Audiology) (@alihashmi903) January 6, 2019 × Prime Minister - Imran Khan gears up for revitalizing the Pakistan-UAE ties, taking up the driving seat as he receives Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi - #ZayedAlNahyan who arrives in Pakistan after 12 YEARS. It's going to be quite an interesting day! 😎 pic.twitter.com/wwWBSvkKKp — Maleeha Hashmey (@MaleehaHashmey) January 6, 2019 × Prime Minister Imran Khan receiving the the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and driving the car himself. This man is giving it his all for the success of this country and its people. #PrimeMinisterImrankhan pic.twitter.com/kyjMsENenE — Talha Siddiqui (@_TalhaSiddiqui) January 6, 2019 × Banners on the road depicted the crown prince and read "Zayed in Our Hearts" and "Pakistan-UAE partner in development". The United Arab Emirates is Pakistan's largest trading partner in the Middle East and a major investment source, Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement ahead of the visit. More than 1.5 million Pakistanis live in the Gulf state and send millions of dollars in remittances back home, it added. The crown prince last visited Pakistan in January 2007. The UAE announced in December it would deposit $3 billion in the central bank of Pakistan to help "enhance liquidity" as the country struggles with a widening balance of payments crisis. The Pakistani rupee plunged almost five per cent to a record low at the end of November, after what appeared to be the sixth devaluation by the central bank in the past year. It also secured $6 billion in funding from Saudi Arabia and struck a 12-month deal for a cash lifeline during Khan's visit to the kingdom in October. Islamabad has also received billions of dollars in Chinese loans to finance ambitious infrastructure projects. A team from the International Monetary Fund visited Pakistan in November to discuss a possible bailout with officials but talks ended without agreement. (With inputs from AFP)

Imran Khan picks up Abu Dhabi crown prince at airport, drives car himself to PM House

South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan claimed a wicket and forced Hashim Amla to retire hurt before South Africa passed their meagre target after less than an hour's play at Newlands.

Set 41 to win, South Africa reached 43 for the loss of one wicket from 9.5 overs.

The result ensured a seventh successive home series win for South Africa, who won the first Test in Centurion by six wickets. The third and final Test starts in Johannesburg on Friday.

Regular South African opening batsman Aiden Markram did not bat after suffering a severely bruised right thigh when he fell heavily on the boundary rope while fielding on Saturday.

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South Africa chase down the easy target of 41 runs in just 9.5 overs as they beat Pakistan by nine wickets and seal the three-Test series 2-0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sT3TAzOBtB">https://t.co/sT3TAzOBtB</a> <a href="https://t.co/fVbuwAQ3sI">pic.twitter.com/fVbuwAQ3sI</a>
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Theunis de Bruyn, opening in place of Markram, clipped Mohammad Abbas to the midwicket boundary but did not add to his score before being caught off his glove by wicketkeeper and captain Sarfraz Ahmed while attempting to pull a bouncer from Abbas.

Mohammad Amir effectively conceded 10 runs in extras off two successive deliveries, with a wide and a no-ball which both flew over Sarfraz's head.

Hashim Amla was forced to retire hurt on two after being hit on the right upper arm by a ball from Amir which lifted sharply off a good length.

Dean Elgar, who made 24 not out, ended the match by hitting two fours off part-time bowler Azhar Ali.

South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands on Sunday. Pakistan claimed a wicket and forced Hashim Amla to retire hurt before South Africa passed their meagre target after less than an hour's play at Newlands.

South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands on Sunday. Pakistan claimed a wicket and forced Hashim Amla to retire hurt before South Africa passed their meagre target after less than an hour's play at Newlands. Set 41 to win, South Africa reached 43 for the loss of one wicket from 9.5 overs. The result ensured a seventh successive home series win for South Africa, who won the first Test in Centurion by six wickets. The third and final Test starts in Johannesburg on Friday. Regular South African opening batsman Aiden Markram did not bat after suffering a severely bruised right thigh when he fell heavily on the boundary rope while fielding on Saturday. South Africa chase down the easy target of 41 runs in just 9.5 overs as they beat Pakistan by nine wickets and seal the three-Test series 2-0. #SAvPAK SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/sT3TAzOBtB pic.twitter.com/fVbuwAQ3sI — ICC (@ICC) January 6, 2019 × Theunis de Bruyn, opening in place of Markram, clipped Mohammad Abbas to the midwicket boundary but did not add to his score before being caught off his glove by wicketkeeper and captain Sarfraz Ahmed while attempting to pull a bouncer from Abbas. Mohammad Amir effectively conceded 10 runs in extras off two successive deliveries, with a wide and a no-ball which both flew over Sarfraz's head. Hashim Amla was forced to retire hurt on two after being hit on the right upper arm by a ball from Amir which lifted sharply off a good length. Dean Elgar, who made 24 not out, ended the match by hitting two fours off part-time bowler Azhar Ali.

South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets to clinch series

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has finalised a bail-out package worth around US $6.2 billion to assist <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/while-pakistan-seeks-imf-bailout-its-debt-and-liabilities-soar-to-rs-31-trillion-report-182294">Pakistan`s struggling economy</a>.

The package will enable Pakistan to deal with its balance-of-payments crisis.

Dawn newspaper has reported that the bail-out package will be announced by the Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of UAE, who will be embarking on his two-day visit to Pakistan on January 6.

The package involves US $3.2 billion worth of oil supplies on deferred payment, in addition to a cash deposit worth US dollar three billion.

Quoting a source, Dawn stated that the bailout package, finalised on January 3, was almost of the same size of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-receives-second-us-1-billion-bailout-package-from-saudi-arabia-184108">bail-out given by Saudi Arabia</a> to Pakistan last year in October.

The source said that the bail-out package would further help Pakistan to save around US $7.9 billion on oil and gas imports, accounting to more than 60 per cent of annual oil import bill of about US $12 to 13 billion, from the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan is also negotiating with the Government of Qatar in order to seek some reductions in the prices of liquefied natural gas (LNG).&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has finalised a bail-out package worth around US $6.2 billion to assist Pakistan`s struggling economy. The package will enable Pakistan to deal with its balance-of-payments crisis.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has finalised a bail-out package worth around US $6.2 billion to assist Pakistan`s struggling economy. The package will enable Pakistan to deal with its balance-of-payments crisis. Dawn newspaper has reported that the bail-out package will be announced by the Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of UAE, who will be embarking on his two-day visit to Pakistan on January 6. The package involves US $3.2 billion worth of oil supplies on deferred payment, in addition to a cash deposit worth US dollar three billion. Quoting a source, Dawn stated that the bailout package, finalised on January 3, was almost of the same size of the bail-out given by Saudi Arabia to Pakistan last year in October. The source said that the bail-out package would further help Pakistan to save around US $7.9 billion on oil and gas imports, accounting to more than 60 per cent of annual oil import bill of about US $12 to 13 billion, from the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Pakistan is also negotiating with the Government of Qatar in order to seek some reductions in the prices of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

UAE finalises US $6.2 billion bail-out package for Pakistan

Chabahar is back in the news after a hiatus of about two years. The contexts of its importance are several but the first one in the current milieu is the fact that despite President Donald Trump’s avowed sanctions on everything related to Iran, India’s Chabahar-based relationship with Tehran has received a waiver. That puts on course the fructification of efforts which commenced many summers ago but got an impetus with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tehran in May 2016, leading to the signing of the trilateral tripartite agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan.

The US provided an “exception” from certain sanctions, to the Iranian port of Chabahar that India has developed and used for reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. This exemption is in addition to temporary freedom from sanctions that the US announced for India and seven major importers of Iranian crude oil.

Why is Chabahar strategically important, for India, the US, Iran and Afghanistan? That will answer many questions. It starts with the fact that its geostrategic location, outside the Persian Gulf and yet on the Iranian coastline, puts it slightly out of harm’s way in the event of the Straits of Hormuz being forcibly closed; although, it is well appreciated that such a closure will no doubt presuppose an adverse effect on all of Iran’s port facilities.

To access Central Asia, often referred to as the heart of Asia, and Afghanistan, there are only two routes from the Indian Ocean. The first is from Pakistan’s Gwadar or Karachi ports and the second is from Chabahar which lies on the southeastern coast of Iran in the Sistan-Baluchistan province. Why the US agreed to waive sanctions for activities connected with the development of the port is simply because India is the nation providing alternatives for establishing communication arteries to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.

For 17 years, the US has fought in Afghanistan and depended on a single artery for its logistics; through Karachi and Pakistan-Baluchistan into Afghan territory. Due to its animosity with Iran, the clearly viable alternative via Chabahar through Iranian territory, to West Afghanistan could not be exploited. The lack of development of Chabahar placed Afghanistan in a predicament because of its reliance on Karachi with all strings in the hands of none-too-friendly Pakistan.

India’s stakes in Afghanistan being high, the realization perhaps came late that Chabahar had serious transformational strategic potential to bypass Pakistan. Once India demonstrated its deep interest and the tripartite agreement with Iran and Afghanistan was signed in mid-2016, the movement of a consignment of wheat from Kandla port in Gujarat to Kabul via Chabahar went through smoothly; that experiment spurred further movement on Chabahar.

With portents of conflict termination in Afghanistan, the US too realised the important role India could play at this stage, such that all eggs were not in Pakistan’s basket. Otherwise all Pakistan needed to do in order to bring down the Afghan National Unity Government (NUG) was to establish a blockade from Karachi and the landlocked state of Afghanistan would have few options.

The tripartite agreement resolved that problem and increased India’s significance in Afghanistan. With India’s access via Chabahar, the viability of maintaining Afghanistan as a state under current dispensation, with minimal US presence, exponentially increases and there is considerable risk reduction. The joint Indian and US strategic interests in Afghanistan aim at the dilution of Pakistani influence and capability.

For the US the option of India in control is far more positive than leaving this to the stranglehold of China, Russia and Pakistan with the latter continuing to improve relations with Iran. For the Afghan NUG, this is as blissful a situation as it can expect with reduction of dependence on Pakistan and an avenue open to trade and assistance from India.

The Indian firm India Ports Global Limited has formally taken over operations at the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. The routes for trade and transit corridors between the three countries have been finalised but this will remain work in progress as subsequent infrastructure caters for railway connectivity and eventual linkage to the INSTC.

While India has successfully completed a major geostrategic venture on one flank of the Persian Gulf, it needs to be mindful of the fact that its interests are divided on both sides of the Gulf. That is where the last few years of straddling diplomacy, which the Ministry of External Affairs has done with a fair degree of aplomb, will hopefully pay a dividend. India remains one of those unique countries which the Prime Minister of Israel and the President of Iran visited within two weeks of each other.

India has long and extremely important relationships with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait which are as strategic as any of its relationships. The world of multilateralism is a sphere in which India is getting increasingly competent. That is why it needs to believe that Chabahar is the opening to the long-awaited strategic and civilisational relationship with Iran which need not be at the cost of the same which must be pursued with the Arab Gulf countries with equal vigour. 2018 was a good year for this, 2019 promises to be better.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-iran-a-port-of-call-for-india-2704295">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Chabahar is back in the news after a hiatus of about two years. The contexts of its importance are several but the first one in the current milieu is the fact that despite President Donald Trump’s avowed sanctions on everything related to Iran, India’s Chabahar-based relationship with Tehran has received a waiver.

Chabahar is back in the news after a hiatus of about two years. The contexts of its importance are several but the first one in the current milieu is the fact that despite President Donald Trump’s avowed sanctions on everything related to Iran, India’s Chabahar-based relationship with Tehran has received a waiver. That puts on course the fructification of efforts which commenced many summers ago but got an impetus with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tehran in May 2016, leading to the signing of the trilateral tripartite agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan. The US provided an “exception” from certain sanctions, to the Iranian port of Chabahar that India has developed and used for reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. This exemption is in addition to temporary freedom from sanctions that the US announced for India and seven major importers of Iranian crude oil. Why is Chabahar strategically important, for India, the US, Iran and Afghanistan? That will answer many questions. It starts with the fact that its geostrategic location, outside the Persian Gulf and yet on the Iranian coastline, puts it slightly out of harm’s way in the event of the Straits of Hormuz being forcibly closed; although, it is well appreciated that such a closure will no doubt presuppose an adverse effect on all of Iran’s port facilities. To access Central Asia, often referred to as the heart of Asia, and Afghanistan, there are only two routes from the Indian Ocean. The first is from Pakistan’s Gwadar or Karachi ports and the second is from Chabahar which lies on the southeastern coast of Iran in the Sistan-Baluchistan province. Why the US agreed to waive sanctions for activities connected with the development of the port is simply because India is the nation providing alternatives for establishing communication arteries to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan. For 17 years, the US has fought in Afghanistan and depended on a single artery for its logistics; through Karachi and Pakistan-Baluchistan into Afghan territory. Due to its animosity with Iran, the clearly viable alternative via Chabahar through Iranian territory, to West Afghanistan could not be exploited. The lack of development of Chabahar placed Afghanistan in a predicament because of its reliance on Karachi with all strings in the hands of none-too-friendly Pakistan. India’s stakes in Afghanistan being high, the realization perhaps came late that Chabahar had serious transformational strategic potential to bypass Pakistan. Once India demonstrated its deep interest and the tripartite agreement with Iran and Afghanistan was signed in mid-2016, the movement of a consignment of wheat from Kandla port in Gujarat to Kabul via Chabahar went through smoothly; that experiment spurred further movement on Chabahar. With portents of conflict termination in Afghanistan, the US too realised the important role India could play at this stage, such that all eggs were not in Pakistan’s basket. Otherwise all Pakistan needed to do in order to bring down the Afghan National Unity Government (NUG) was to establish a blockade from Karachi and the landlocked state of Afghanistan would have few options. The tripartite agreement resolved that problem and increased India’s significance in Afghanistan. With India’s access via Chabahar, the viability of maintaining Afghanistan as a state under current dispensation, with minimal US presence, exponentially increases and there is considerable risk reduction. The joint Indian and US strategic interests in Afghanistan aim at the dilution of Pakistani influence and capability. For the US the option of India in control is far more positive than leaving this to the stranglehold of China, Russia and Pakistan with the latter continuing to improve relations with Iran. For the Afghan NUG, this is as blissful a situation as it can expect with reduction of dependence on Pakistan and an avenue open to trade and assistance from India. The Indian firm India Ports Global Limited has formally taken over operations at the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. The routes for trade and transit corridors between the three countries have been finalised but this will remain work in progress as subsequent infrastructure caters for railway connectivity and eventual linkage to the INSTC. While India has successfully completed a major geostrategic venture on one flank of the Persian Gulf, it needs to be mindful of the fact that its interests are divided on both sides of the Gulf. That is where the last few years of straddling diplomacy, which the Ministry of External Affairs has done with a fair degree of aplomb, will hopefully pay a dividend. India remains one of those unique countries which the Prime Minister of Israel and the President of Iran visited within two weeks of each other. India has long and extremely important relationships with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait which are as strategic as any of its relationships. The world of multilateralism is a sphere in which India is getting increasingly competent. That is why it needs to believe that Chabahar is the opening to the long-awaited strategic and civilisational relationship with Iran which need not be at the cost of the same which must be pursued with the Arab Gulf countries with equal vigour. 2018 was a good year for this, 2019 promises to be better. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Iran: A port of call for India

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that though Islamabad is trying to have a dialogue with India, it is New Delhi that is not responding to Pak's talks, leading up to a"bizarre situation".&nbsp;

Khan said this in Turkey while standing alongside the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

"We are trying to have a dialogue. Trying to move towards a friendly relationship with India. We had a stand-off with India and India refuses to talk to Pakistan under the pretext that until Pakistan stops terrorism India will not talk to us. Its a bizarre situation were we feel how can you move forward if there is no dialogue, " Khan said.

The Pakistan prime minister was in Turkey on a two-day visit.&nbsp;

Imran Khan said his country "Obviously wants stability" because "We want economic progress which does not come without stability and stability will only take place when Pakistan and India sit down and resolve the differences”.

"The basic problem about Pakistan, India is about Kashmir. Problem with Kashmir is that there is an indigenous movement which is sick of three decades of trying to stop popular and democratic movement," he added.

This is not the first time when Pakistan's Prime Minister has raked up the Kashmir issue and linked it with dialogue process. During the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur corridor on the Pakistani side in November 2018, Khan had said, "Our political leaders, our army are on one page. We want a civilised relationship with India. We have one problem, Kashmir. If man can walk on the moon, what problems are there that we cannot resolve."&nbsp;

India has been saying talks and terror cannot go together. In his first interview of 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said "Whether UPA or NDA government, never opposed dialogue(with Pakistan)" but "amid the noise of bombs and guns, the dialogue cannot be heard".&nbsp;

India had tried to engage with Pakistan especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi making a stopover at Lahore on December 25, 2015 but it was followed by a major terror attack on Indian army base in Pathankot.&nbsp;

In 2018, Pakistan had suggested foreign ministers of India and Pakistan to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. New Delhi did accept it initially but cancelled it within 24 hours after killings of its security personnel by Pakistan-based entities in Jammu &amp; Kashmir.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Indian Diplomats continued to be harassed in Pakistan. On December 3 major incidents of harassment of Indian Diplomats were reported. An intruder tried to break into the house of an Indian Diplomat on December 10, while on the 21st Indian high commission team was questioned on the road in Peshawar. The electricity was cut for four hours on December 25 at the house of the second secretary. India has sent a number of note verbale also to Pakistani ministry of foreign affairs regarding the issue.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that though Islamabad is trying to have a dialogue with India, it is New Delhi that is not responding to Pak's talks, leading up to a"bizarre situation".

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that though Islamabad is trying to have a dialogue with India, it is New Delhi that is not responding to Pak's talks, leading up to a"bizarre situation". Khan said this in Turkey while standing alongside the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. "We are trying to have a dialogue. Trying to move towards a friendly relationship with India. We had a stand-off with India and India refuses to talk to Pakistan under the pretext that until Pakistan stops terrorism India will not talk to us. Its a bizarre situation were we feel how can you move forward if there is no dialogue, " Khan said. The Pakistan prime minister was in Turkey on a two-day visit. Imran Khan said his country "Obviously wants stability" because "We want economic progress which does not come without stability and stability will only take place when Pakistan and India sit down and resolve the differences”. "The basic problem about Pakistan, India is about Kashmir. Problem with Kashmir is that there is an indigenous movement which is sick of three decades of trying to stop popular and democratic movement," he added. This is not the first time when Pakistan's Prime Minister has raked up the Kashmir issue and linked it with dialogue process. During the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur corridor on the Pakistani side in November 2018, Khan had said, "Our political leaders, our army are on one page. We want a civilised relationship with India. We have one problem, Kashmir. If man can walk on the moon, what problems are there that we cannot resolve." India has been saying talks and terror cannot go together. In his first interview of 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said "Whether UPA or NDA government, never opposed dialogue(with Pakistan)" but "amid the noise of bombs and guns, the dialogue cannot be heard". India had tried to engage with Pakistan especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi making a stopover at Lahore on December 25, 2015 but it was followed by a major terror attack on Indian army base in Pathankot. In 2018, Pakistan had suggested foreign ministers of India and Pakistan to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. New Delhi did accept it initially but cancelled it within 24 hours after killings of its security personnel by Pakistan-based entities in Jammu & Kashmir. Meanwhile, Indian Diplomats continued to be harassed in Pakistan. On December 3 major incidents of harassment of Indian Diplomats were reported. An intruder tried to break into the house of an Indian Diplomat on December 10, while on the 21st Indian high commission team was questioned on the road in Peshawar. The electricity was cut for four hours on December 25 at the house of the second secretary. India has sent a number of note verbale also to Pakistani ministry of foreign affairs regarding the issue.

Trying to have dialogue with India but New Delhi refusing: Pak PM Imran Khan

The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) apprehended five Indian fishermen and seized a boat off the Gujarat coast late Thursday night, an official of the National Fishworkers' Forum (NFF) said.

PMSA, a branch of the Pakistan Navy, regularly captures Indian fishermen on the charge of crossing into that country's waters.

The boat with five fishermen onboard had sailed off from Porbandar in Gujarat a few days ago, NFF secretary Manish Lodhari told PTI.

The PMSA apprehended them near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian sea, he said.

"As per the information we have received, the PMSA is taking these fishermen to Karachi. They are still in the sea as it takes around 20 hours to reach Karachi from the IMBL," Lodhari said.

The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) apprehended five Indian fishermen and seized a boat off the Gujarat coast late Thursday night, an official of the National Fishworkers' Forum (NFF) said.

The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) apprehended five Indian fishermen and seized a boat off the Gujarat coast late Thursday night, an official of the National Fishworkers' Forum (NFF) said. PMSA, a branch of the Pakistan Navy, regularly captures Indian fishermen on the charge of crossing into that country's waters. The boat with five fishermen onboard had sailed off from Porbandar in Gujarat a few days ago, NFF secretary Manish Lodhari told PTI. The PMSA apprehended them near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian sea, he said. "As per the information we have received, the PMSA is taking these fishermen to Karachi. They are still in the sea as it takes around 20 hours to reach Karachi from the IMBL," Lodhari said.

Pakistan Navy apprehends 5 Indian fishermen off Gujarat coast

The Pakistan Army on Wednesday claimed to have shot down a second "Indian spy quadcopter" flying over the Pakistani side of the Line of Control.

Major General Asif Ghafoor, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations - the Pakistan Army's media wing, said "Pakistan Army troops shot down another Indian spy quadcopter".&nbsp;

The quadcopter was destroyed in Satwal Sector, he added.

On Tuesday, Maj Gen Gafoor had tweeted along with a picture of the drone, claiming that Pakistan Army troops had shot down an "Indian spy quadcopter" in the Bagh Sector of Pakistani side of the Line of Control, a claim strongly rejected by the Indian Army.

He had said that not even a quadcopter will be allowed to cross (the) LoC.

According to the Pakistani defence officials, "four intruding Indian drones were shot down by Pakistani forces last year."&nbsp;

The Pakistan Army on Wednesday claimed to have shot down a second "Indian spy quadcopter" flying over the Pakistani side of the Line of Control. Major General Asif Ghafoor, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations - the Pakistan Army's media wing, said "Pakistan Army troops shot down another Indian spy quadcopter".

The Pakistan Army on Wednesday claimed to have shot down a second "Indian spy quadcopter" flying over the Pakistani side of the Line of Control. Major General Asif Ghafoor, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations - the Pakistan Army's media wing, said "Pakistan Army troops shot down another Indian spy quadcopter". The quadcopter was destroyed in Satwal Sector, he added. On Tuesday, Maj Gen Gafoor had tweeted along with a picture of the drone, claiming that Pakistan Army troops had shot down an "Indian spy quadcopter" in the Bagh Sector of Pakistani side of the Line of Control, a claim strongly rejected by the Indian Army. He had said that not even a quadcopter will be allowed to cross (the) LoC. According to the Pakistani defence officials, "four intruding Indian drones were shot down by Pakistani forces last year."

Pakistan claims to have destroyed second 'Indian spy quadcopter' along LoC

Pakistan are hoping to host top teams like Australia and South Africa in the near future after what is being seen as a successful trip by Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, Ehsan Mani, to Johannesburg.

According to a reliable source in the board, Mani has held positive discussions with Cricket South Africa officials about them sending teams to Pakistan.

"Cricket SA officials have told Mani they will look into sending the South African under-19, A, women's and senior teams to Pakistan over a period of time," the source said.

He said the PCB is also optimistic that Cricket Australia might agree to play one or two ODIs in late March-April in Lahore and Karachi.

"Things are looking bright after the positive response of CSA with regards to getting more international cricket matches in Pakistan," he added.

Since March 2009, when terrorists attacked the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore, no top side has visited Pakistan due to security concerns.

But the source said that Mani had given the CSA detailed briefings on the improved situation in Pakistan and the strong security plan of the PCB for visiting teams.

Since September 2017, Pakistan has hosted the ICC World Eleven, Sri Lanka and West Indies for short T20 series in Lahore and Karachi and it also held the finals of the last two Pakistan Super League in Karachi.

The newly appointed managing director of the PCB, Wasim Khan, has made it clear his main task would be to see the return of full-fledged international cricket to Pakistan.

Wasim, who takes charge later this month, has said the PCB would be willing to allay the security concerns of visiting teams.

Pakistan are hoping to host top teams like Australia and South Africa in the near future after what is being seen as a successful trip by Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, Ehsan Mani, to Johannesburg.

Pakistan are hoping to host top teams like Australia and South Africa in the near future after what is being seen as a successful trip by Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, Ehsan Mani, to Johannesburg. According to a reliable source in the board, Mani has held positive discussions with Cricket South Africa officials about them sending teams to Pakistan. "Cricket SA officials have told Mani they will look into sending the South African under-19, A, women's and senior teams to Pakistan over a period of time," the source said. He said the PCB is also optimistic that Cricket Australia might agree to play one or two ODIs in late March-April in Lahore and Karachi. "Things are looking bright after the positive response of CSA with regards to getting more international cricket matches in Pakistan," he added. Since March 2009, when terrorists attacked the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore, no top side has visited Pakistan due to security concerns. But the source said that Mani had given the CSA detailed briefings on the improved situation in Pakistan and the strong security plan of the PCB for visiting teams. Since September 2017, Pakistan has hosted the ICC World Eleven, Sri Lanka and West Indies for short T20 series in Lahore and Karachi and it also held the finals of the last two Pakistan Super League in Karachi. The newly appointed managing director of the PCB, Wasim Khan, has made it clear his main task would be to see the return of full-fledged international cricket to Pakistan. Wasim, who takes charge later this month, has said the PCB would be willing to allay the security concerns of visiting teams.

Pakistan hoping to host South Africa, Australia in near future

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/new-year-will-be-beginning-of-pakistans-golden-era-pm-imran-187686">Pakistan Tuesday summoned </a>India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner and condemned the alleged "unprovoked ceasefire violations" by Indian troops across the Line of Control which resulted in the death of a woman.

Director General (South Asia and SAARC) Mohammad Faisal, who is also the foreign ministry spokesman, summoned the Indian diplomat and "condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian forces along <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sc-asks-govt-to-review-decision-to-place-172-people-on-exit-control-list-187590">the Line of Control on December</a> 31," the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

The firing in the Shahkot Sector along the LoC resulted in the death of the woman, identified as Asia Bibi, and injured seven others on Monday, it said.

Faisal said that the Indian forces along the LoC and the Working Boundary are "continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons."

The FO alleged that in 2018, the Indian forces have carried out more than 2,350 ceasefire violations along the LoC and the Working Boundary, resulting in the death of 36 civilians, while injuring 142 others.

"This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations," it alleged.

"The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation," the statement said.

Faisal urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 Ceasefire arrangement; investigate this and other incidents of ceasefire violations; instruct the Indian forces to respect the ceasefire, in letter and spirit and maintain peace on the LoC and the Working Boundary.&nbsp;

He urged that the Indian side should permit UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to play its mandated role as per the UN Security Council resolutions.

India maintains that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the LoC.

Director General (South Asia and SAARC) Mohammad Faisal said that the Indian forces along the LoC and the Working Boundary are 'continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons.'

Pakistan Tuesday summoned India's Acting Deputy High Commissioner and condemned the alleged "unprovoked ceasefire violations" by Indian troops across the Line of Control which resulted in the death of a woman. Director General (South Asia and SAARC) Mohammad Faisal, who is also the foreign ministry spokesman, summoned the Indian diplomat and "condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian forces along the Line of Control on December 31," the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement. The firing in the Shahkot Sector along the LoC resulted in the death of the woman, identified as Asia Bibi, and injured seven others on Monday, it said. Faisal said that the Indian forces along the LoC and the Working Boundary are "continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons." The FO alleged that in 2018, the Indian forces have carried out more than 2,350 ceasefire violations along the LoC and the Working Boundary, resulting in the death of 36 civilians, while injuring 142 others. "This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 ceasefire violations," it alleged. "The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation," the statement said. Faisal urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 Ceasefire arrangement; investigate this and other incidents of ceasefire violations; instruct the Indian forces to respect the ceasefire, in letter and spirit and maintain peace on the LoC and the Working Boundary. He urged that the Indian side should permit UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to play its mandated role as per the UN Security Council resolutions. India maintains that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the LoC.

Pakistan summons senior Indian diplomat over 'ceasefire violations'

Afghanistan's neighbours, caught off-guard by reports of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-orders-to-pull-out-top-us-commander-in-afghanistan-186177">US plans to withdraw thousands of troops</a>, have begun preparing for the risk that a pullout could send hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing across their borders, diplomats say.

Alarmed by the possibility of a chaotic withdrawal, diplomats from neighbouring countries who have been in talks with US officials in Kabul said they were reassessing policies and would ramp up border preparations.

"At this point, there is no clarity about the withdrawal, but we have to keep a clear action plan ready," said a senior Asian diplomat based in Kabul. "The situation can turn from bad to worse very quickly."&nbsp;

A White House spokesman last week said US President Donald Trump had not issued orders to the Pentagon to withdraw troops from Afghanistan.

But the administration has not denied reports that the United States plans to pull out almost half of the 14,000-strong force currently deployed.

The reports come amid an intensification of moves towards peace negotiations in Afghanistan. US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad met Taliban representatives last month and discussed issues around a future troop withdrawal as well as proposals for a ceasefire.

But even among regional powers such as Iran, Pakistan or Russia that have long been suspicious that the United States wants permanent military bases in South Asia, there is no appetite for a sudden US withdrawal, say analysts.

"While the news of a potential US drawdown may be a reason for cautious optimism in the region, they don't want an abrupt withdrawal," said Graeme Smith, a consultant for the International Crisis Group.

"All sides recognise that a precipitous pullout could spark a new civil war that destabilises the region. The neighbours do not enjoy surprises, and the uncertain signals from Washington are causing anxiety."

The United States, which sent troops to Afghanistan in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York and Washington and at the peak of the deployment had more than 100,000 troops in the country, withdrew most of its forces in 2014, but still keeps around 14,000 troops there as part of a NATO-led mission aiding the Afghan security forces and hunting militants.

The top US general in Afghanistan said 2019 was going to be an interesting year.

"The policy review is going on in multiple capitals, peace talks out there, regional players pressing for peace, the Taliban talking about peace, the Afghan government talking about peace," said General Scott Miller, the US commander of Afghanistan`s NATO-led force, at the Resolute Support mission headquarters in Kabul.

BORDER SECURITY

Pakistan, which was already working to fence its 1,400 km (870 miles) frontier with Afghanistan and deploy a 50,000-strong paramilitary force along the border, is preparing for a fresh influx of refugees in the event of a disorder.

"Camps will be set up near the border to manage a fresh wave of Afghan refugees and illegal migrants and Afghans will not be allowed to set up illegal homes in Pakistan," said an official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Afghanistan, which shares borders with Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China, is already the world`s second-biggest source of refugees, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates that approximately 1.4 million undocumented Afghans live in Pakistan and possibly 1.2 million in Iran.

While thousands of undocumented Afghans were driven out of Iran by recent political and economic turbulence, Iranian officials in Kabul said they fear a sudden US troop withdrawal could reverse that trend.

"We are working closely with the Afghan government to stop Afghans from entering our country. We don't want to use violence to stop them, but a sudden US pullout will lead to a crisis," said an Iranian official.

Afghanistan does not share a land border with Turkey, but Afghans enter Turkey from Iran to work as shepherds, farmers or in the construction sector. Many use it as a transit point to try to enter Europe.

"We have not closed our door but the number of illegal migrants is increasing on a daily basis," said Mehmet Ozgur Sak, the second secretary at the Turkish embassy in Kabul.&nbsp;

In 2018, Turkish police say they intercepted 90,000 Afghans who were trying to enter the country with fake documents or with the help of traffickers, double the number in 2017.

As negotiations over the future of the country gather momentum, the Taliban have been trying to reassure Afghans that they have nothing to fear after foreign forces leave.

But there are Afghans who refuse to trust the Taliban`s new stance. Sayed Rafi Sadat, a student in western Herat province, said the Taliban would impose harsh laws to destroy democracy.

"If US troops withdraw then there is no hope for the future and we will have to leave the country," he said.

A White House spokesman last week said US President Donald Trump had not issued orders to the Pentagon to withdraw troops from Afghanistan.

Afghanistan's neighbours, caught off-guard by reports of US plans to withdraw thousands of troops, have begun preparing for the risk that a pullout could send hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing across their borders, diplomats say. Alarmed by the possibility of a chaotic withdrawal, diplomats from neighbouring countries who have been in talks with US officials in Kabul said they were reassessing policies and would ramp up border preparations. "At this point, there is no clarity about the withdrawal, but we have to keep a clear action plan ready," said a senior Asian diplomat based in Kabul. "The situation can turn from bad to worse very quickly." A White House spokesman last week said US President Donald Trump had not issued orders to the Pentagon to withdraw troops from Afghanistan. But the administration has not denied reports that the United States plans to pull out almost half of the 14,000-strong force currently deployed. The reports come amid an intensification of moves towards peace negotiations in Afghanistan. US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad met Taliban representatives last month and discussed issues around a future troop withdrawal as well as proposals for a ceasefire. But even among regional powers such as Iran, Pakistan or Russia that have long been suspicious that the United States wants permanent military bases in South Asia, there is no appetite for a sudden US withdrawal, say analysts. "While the news of a potential US drawdown may be a reason for cautious optimism in the region, they don't want an abrupt withdrawal," said Graeme Smith, a consultant for the International Crisis Group. "All sides recognise that a precipitous pullout could spark a new civil war that destabilises the region. The neighbours do not enjoy surprises, and the uncertain signals from Washington are causing anxiety." The United States, which sent troops to Afghanistan in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York and Washington and at the peak of the deployment had more than 100,000 troops in the country, withdrew most of its forces in 2014, but still keeps around 14,000 troops there as part of a NATO-led mission aiding the Afghan security forces and hunting militants. The top US general in Afghanistan said 2019 was going to be an interesting year. "The policy review is going on in multiple capitals, peace talks out there, regional players pressing for peace, the Taliban talking about peace, the Afghan government talking about peace," said General Scott Miller, the US commander of Afghanistan`s NATO-led force, at the Resolute Support mission headquarters in Kabul. BORDER SECURITY Pakistan, which was already working to fence its 1,400 km (870 miles) frontier with Afghanistan and deploy a 50,000-strong paramilitary force along the border, is preparing for a fresh influx of refugees in the event of a disorder. "Camps will be set up near the border to manage a fresh wave of Afghan refugees and illegal migrants and Afghans will not be allowed to set up illegal homes in Pakistan," said an official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Afghanistan, which shares borders with Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China, is already the world`s second-biggest source of refugees, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates that approximately 1.4 million undocumented Afghans live in Pakistan and possibly 1.2 million in Iran. While thousands of undocumented Afghans were driven out of Iran by recent political and economic turbulence, Iranian officials in Kabul said they fear a sudden US troop withdrawal could reverse that trend. "We are working closely with the Afghan government to stop Afghans from entering our country. We don't want to use violence to stop them, but a sudden US pullout will lead to a crisis," said an Iranian official. Afghanistan does not share a land border with Turkey, but Afghans enter Turkey from Iran to work as shepherds, farmers or in the construction sector. Many use it as a transit point to try to enter Europe. "We have not closed our door but the number of illegal migrants is increasing on a daily basis," said Mehmet Ozgur Sak, the second secretary at the Turkish embassy in Kabul. In 2018, Turkish police say they intercepted 90,000 Afghans who were trying to enter the country with fake documents or with the help of traffickers, double the number in 2017. As negotiations over the future of the country gather momentum, the Taliban have been trying to reassure Afghans that they have nothing to fear after foreign forces leave. But there are Afghans who refuse to trust the Taliban`s new stance. Sayed Rafi Sadat, a student in western Herat province, said the Taliban would impose harsh laws to destroy democracy. "If US troops withdraw then there is no hope for the future and we will have to leave the country," he said.

Afghanistan's neighbours fear refugee crisis if US pulls out

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-detains-member-of-british-house-of-lords-at-islamabad-airport-187159">Pakistan's national carrier</a> has terminated the contracts of over 50 employees, including seven pilots after they were found guilty of holding fake degrees. 
&nbsp; 
The directives were issued in view of the proceedings of Pakistan's Supreme Court against pilots and cabin crews with fake degrees and certificates.

"Action has been taken against the PIA employees after the respective educational institutions found their degrees bogus/fake," a statement issued by Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson Mashood Tajwar said that a probe has been initiated into the cases of all staffers who were hired holding sham degrees.

The CAA said that degree verification of another 400 PIA employees is underway.&nbsp;

Director General of CAA Hassan Baig has also issued directives to suspend the licenses of all those pilots and cabin crews who have not yet submitted their degrees and certificates.

"Their licenses will remain suspended till they submit their referred documents for verification," Baig said.&nbsp;

The CAA had revealed before a Supreme Court bench this week that academic credentials of seven pilots of the PIA had been found to be bogus.

The bench was hearing a matter relating to the verification of degrees of pilots and other staff of the PIA.&nbsp;

The directives were issued in view of the proceedings of Pakistan's Supreme Court against pilots and cabin crews with fake degrees and certificates.

Pakistan's national carrier has terminated the contracts of over 50 employees, including seven pilots after they were found guilty of holding fake degrees. The directives were issued in view of the proceedings of Pakistan's Supreme Court against pilots and cabin crews with fake degrees and certificates. "Action has been taken against the PIA employees after the respective educational institutions found their degrees bogus/fake," a statement issued by Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson Mashood Tajwar said that a probe has been initiated into the cases of all staffers who were hired holding sham degrees. The CAA said that degree verification of another 400 PIA employees is underway. Director General of CAA Hassan Baig has also issued directives to suspend the licenses of all those pilots and cabin crews who have not yet submitted their degrees and certificates. "Their licenses will remain suspended till they submit their referred documents for verification," Baig said. The CAA had revealed before a Supreme Court bench this week that academic credentials of seven pilots of the PIA had been found to be bogus. The bench was hearing a matter relating to the verification of degrees of pilots and other staff of the PIA.

Pakistan's national carrier sacks 50 employees for holding fake degrees

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-rise-and-fall-of-pakistans-nawaz-sharif-186358">Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif </a>will challenge his conviction in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case in the Islamabad High Court this week, his lawyer said on Sunday after the PML-N supremo was sentenced to seven years in jail for corruption.

Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship Investment case and Al-Azizia Steel Mills case - were launched<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ousted-pakistan-pm-nawaz-sharif-shifted-to-kot-lakhpat-jail-in-lahore-186373"> against the Sharif family</a> by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017, following a judgment by the Supreme Court that disqualified Sharif as prime minister in the high-profile Panama Papers case in July last year.

Last Monday, an anti-corruption court in Islamabad sentenced 68-year-old Sharif to seven years in jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case but acquitted him in the Flagship Investment case.

The accountability court had also imposed a fine of $ 2.5 million and 1.5 million pounds on Sharif.

"We have almost finalised the draft of the appeal against the verdict (against Sharif) and will file it in the Islamabad High Court this week," Sharif's lawyer Khwaja Haris told PTI. He said, "We are hopeful to get relief from the high court as there are many loopholes in the judgment of the accountability court".

Sharif's legal team also called on him at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore on Saturday and discussed with him legal matters related to the appeal challenging the accountability court's verdict. They also met his daughter Maryam Nawaz at the Sharif's Jati Umra residence in Raiwind and discussed the case.

The accountability court had also barred Sharif from holding public office for 10 years after completing his sentence. It also ordered confiscation of his Hill Metal Establishment firm and issued perpetual warrants of arrest for his sons - Hussain and Hassan - who had been declared proclaimed offenders.

This was the second conviction of three-time prime minister Sharif this year, as he had been convicted for 10 years, along with his daughter Maryam Nawaz (seven years) and son-in-law Mohammad Safdar (one year), in the Avenfield case in July.

The Islamabad High Court had suspended their sentence and they were released on September 19 after spending 63 days in prison. The three corruption references were filed in the court against the Sharif family following revelations of their offshore holdings in the Panama Papers in 2016.

Sharif spent a night in Adialia jail in Rawalpindi after his conviction on Monday and was shifted to Kot Lakhpat jail the next day.

Sharif's younger brother and PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif is also incarcerated at the Kot Lakhpat jail in the Rs 14 billion Ashiyana Housing scam.

According to jail sources, both brothers meet each other as they are in the same barrack. Shahbaz, also the opposition leader in the National Assembly, will be shifted to Islamabad when the parliamentary session is underway.&nbsp;

The PML-N has expressed hope that Sharif will get relief from the high court as no corruption has been proven against him.

"According to our legal team the judgment of the accountability court is very weak and we have strong grounds to pin hopes to get relief from the high court," said PML-N senior leader and former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal.

He said in the Al-Azizia case "justice has not been served as there are many loopholes in the judgment".&nbsp;

Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship Investment case and Al-Azizia Steel Mills case - were launched against the Sharif family by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017.

Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif will challenge his conviction in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case in the Islamabad High Court this week, his lawyer said on Sunday after the PML-N supremo was sentenced to seven years in jail for corruption. Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship Investment case and Al-Azizia Steel Mills case - were launched against the Sharif family by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017, following a judgment by the Supreme Court that disqualified Sharif as prime minister in the high-profile Panama Papers case in July last year. Last Monday, an anti-corruption court in Islamabad sentenced 68-year-old Sharif to seven years in jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case but acquitted him in the Flagship Investment case. The accountability court had also imposed a fine of $ 2.5 million and 1.5 million pounds on Sharif. "We have almost finalised the draft of the appeal against the verdict (against Sharif) and will file it in the Islamabad High Court this week," Sharif's lawyer Khwaja Haris told PTI. He said, "We are hopeful to get relief from the high court as there are many loopholes in the judgment of the accountability court". Sharif's legal team also called on him at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore on Saturday and discussed with him legal matters related to the appeal challenging the accountability court's verdict. They also met his daughter Maryam Nawaz at the Sharif's Jati Umra residence in Raiwind and discussed the case. The accountability court had also barred Sharif from holding public office for 10 years after completing his sentence. It also ordered confiscation of his Hill Metal Establishment firm and issued perpetual warrants of arrest for his sons - Hussain and Hassan - who had been declared proclaimed offenders. This was the second conviction of three-time prime minister Sharif this year, as he had been convicted for 10 years, along with his daughter Maryam Nawaz (seven years) and son-in-law Mohammad Safdar (one year), in the Avenfield case in July. The Islamabad High Court had suspended their sentence and they were released on September 19 after spending 63 days in prison. The three corruption references were filed in the court against the Sharif family following revelations of their offshore holdings in the Panama Papers in 2016. Sharif spent a night in Adialia jail in Rawalpindi after his conviction on Monday and was shifted to Kot Lakhpat jail the next day. Sharif's younger brother and PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif is also incarcerated at the Kot Lakhpat jail in the Rs 14 billion Ashiyana Housing scam. According to jail sources, both brothers meet each other as they are in the same barrack. Shahbaz, also the opposition leader in the National Assembly, will be shifted to Islamabad when the parliamentary session is underway. The PML-N has expressed hope that Sharif will get relief from the high court as no corruption has been proven against him. "According to our legal team the judgment of the accountability court is very weak and we have strong grounds to pin hopes to get relief from the high court," said PML-N senior leader and former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal. He said in the Al-Azizia case "justice has not been served as there are many loopholes in the judgment".

Ousted Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to challenge conviction in graft case

In what is certain to create trouble for Islamabad's anti-India lobbying efforts in the United Kingdom, the Pakistani authorities detained Lord Nazir Ahmed at Islamabad airport for several hours on Christmas Day.

A member of the British House of Lords, Nazir remained a puppet for Pakistan to raise the Kashmir issue in UK.

He used to hold anti-India protests in London to mislead the international community.

Nazir was not allowed to enter the Pakistani territory as his National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) was expired.

Sources reveal that he was given 72-hours landing permit after having heated arguments with the authorities.

He reached Islamabad by Qatar Airways. Pakistan Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials told him that a valid NICOP is must for entry into Pakistan.

"We know you very well and respect your status but a law is law and no one is above the law. Firstly, we can't allow you to enter the city with invalid NICOP, secondly, if we hypothetically give you permission, it would become hot news for media and unnecessary controversy will start", Pakistani media quoted the officials.

Lord Ahmed said that it was very humiliating and embarrassing moments for him and it happened only because of wrong information floated by none other than PM Imran Khan's personal advisor Zulfiqar Ahmed Zulfi who told in London last week that NICOP is not necessary to travel to Pakistan."I shall advise to every overseas Pakistani to be vigilant and well informed before travelling. Thoroughly check and complete all necessary documents before starting their journey to Pakistan", Lord Ahmed stated.

"These PTI punters should not misguide their overseas countrymen and I shall bring this saga into knowledge of PM Imran Khan if I get a chance to meet him", said The Nation while quoting Lord Ahmed.

In what is certain to create trouble for Islamabad's anti-India lobbying efforts in the United Kingdom, the Pakistani authorities detained Lord Nazir Ahmed at Islamabad airport for several hours on Christmas Day.

In what is certain to create trouble for Islamabad's anti-India lobbying efforts in the United Kingdom, the Pakistani authorities detained Lord Nazir Ahmed at Islamabad airport for several hours on Christmas Day. A member of the British House of Lords, Nazir remained a puppet for Pakistan to raise the Kashmir issue in UK. He used to hold anti-India protests in London to mislead the international community. Nazir was not allowed to enter the Pakistani territory as his National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) was expired. Sources reveal that he was given 72-hours landing permit after having heated arguments with the authorities. He reached Islamabad by Qatar Airways. Pakistan Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials told him that a valid NICOP is must for entry into Pakistan. "We know you very well and respect your status but a law is law and no one is above the law. Firstly, we can't allow you to enter the city with invalid NICOP, secondly, if we hypothetically give you permission, it would become hot news for media and unnecessary controversy will start", Pakistani media quoted the officials. Lord Ahmed said that it was very humiliating and embarrassing moments for him and it happened only because of wrong information floated by none other than PM Imran Khan's personal advisor Zulfiqar Ahmed Zulfi who told in London last week that NICOP is not necessary to travel to Pakistan."I shall advise to every overseas Pakistani to be vigilant and well informed before travelling. Thoroughly check and complete all necessary documents before starting their journey to Pakistan", Lord Ahmed stated. "These PTI punters should not misguide their overseas countrymen and I shall bring this saga into knowledge of PM Imran Khan if I get a chance to meet him", said The Nation while quoting Lord Ahmed.

Pakistan detains member of British House of Lords at Islamabad airport

In an embarrassment to Pervez Musharraf, the former Pakistani dictator, in a leaked video, was purportedly seen seeking covert US support to regain power and telling American lawmakers that he was "ashamed" of the ISI being negligent about the al Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden's whereabouts.&nbsp;

The undated video clips, which have been posted by dissident Pakistani columnist Gul Bukhari, also shows the self-exiled former president as saying that he thinks that the negligence of the ISI was "pardonable" as the CIA was also involved in same level of negligence on 9/11.

General (retd) Musharraf, 75, was Pakistan's president between 2001 and 2008, before resigning to avoid impeachment.&nbsp;

The former army chief has been living in Dubai since March 2016 after he left for medical treatment and has not returned since, citing security and health reasons. He is facing the treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007, a punishable offence for which he was indicted in 2014.&nbsp;

"All I am saying is, I have certain credentials from the past. I need to come (to power) again and I need to be supported. Not overtly, but in a covert manner. So that we win again," Musharraf is seen as telling US lawmakers in one of the leaked video of the meeting.&nbsp;

When posed with tough questions, he rued that US lawmakers "are too involved in minor tactics".

He also claimed that Pakistan used the money, given by the US for fight against terrorist, to bring down the poverty from 34 per cent to 17 per cent.

To which, those present in the meeting were quick to point out that none of the US Congress members voted for US $20 billion aid to Pakistan in the last 10 years because of poverty.&nbsp;

Money was given to Pakistan to defeat al Qaeda and the Taliban, the lawmakers said, to which the former Pakistan president sought the US to help him get back to power.

In the first video clip, he is seen walking in the corridors of the US House of Representatives. The video clips seems to be from 2012, after he was ousted from power.&nbsp;

In the third segment of the clip, Musharraf is seen in conversation with a lobbyist and Chairman of the powerful American Jewish Congress Jack Rosen during an informal get-together. One of those present in that meeting was Congressman Gary Ackerman.

He argues that there was no complicity in Pakistan not being able to find out Osama bin-Laden.

"There are aspersions against Pakistan of hiding Osama bin Laden," Musharraf says in his meeting with US Congressmen.&nbsp;

"First of all, is the US against Pakistan, or annoyed with the Army and ISI, because they believe there was complicity? My view is that there was no complicity and I would like to say a few words on that," he told the lawmakers.

"There was negligence. Certainly. And we are all ashamed. Even, I, though I am not in the government now, I am ashamed that there was this level of negligence by the ISI that we did not know. I think negligence is pardonable," he said, adding that the CIA was also involved in same level of negligence on 9/11.&nbsp;

Referring to the 18 people being trained in the US, Musharraf alleged that CIA being such a big organisation was sleeping.&nbsp;

"ISI was also sleeping. Let's leave it at that," he said.

In an embarrassment to Pervez Musharraf, the former Pakistani dictator, in a leaked video, was purportedly seen seeking covert US support to regain power and telling American lawmakers that he was "ashamed" of the ISI being negligent about the al Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden's whereabouts.

In an embarrassment to Pervez Musharraf, the former Pakistani dictator, in a leaked video, was purportedly seen seeking covert US support to regain power and telling American lawmakers that he was "ashamed" of the ISI being negligent about the al Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden's whereabouts. The undated video clips, which have been posted by dissident Pakistani columnist Gul Bukhari, also shows the self-exiled former president as saying that he thinks that the negligence of the ISI was "pardonable" as the CIA was also involved in same level of negligence on 9/11. General (retd) Musharraf, 75, was Pakistan's president between 2001 and 2008, before resigning to avoid impeachment. The former army chief has been living in Dubai since March 2016 after he left for medical treatment and has not returned since, citing security and health reasons. He is facing the treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007, a punishable offence for which he was indicted in 2014. "All I am saying is, I have certain credentials from the past. I need to come (to power) again and I need to be supported. Not overtly, but in a covert manner. So that we win again," Musharraf is seen as telling US lawmakers in one of the leaked video of the meeting. When posed with tough questions, he rued that US lawmakers "are too involved in minor tactics". He also claimed that Pakistan used the money, given by the US for fight against terrorist, to bring down the poverty from 34 per cent to 17 per cent. To which, those present in the meeting were quick to point out that none of the US Congress members voted for US $20 billion aid to Pakistan in the last 10 years because of poverty. Money was given to Pakistan to defeat al Qaeda and the Taliban, the lawmakers said, to which the former Pakistan president sought the US to help him get back to power. In the first video clip, he is seen walking in the corridors of the US House of Representatives. The video clips seems to be from 2012, after he was ousted from power. In the third segment of the clip, Musharraf is seen in conversation with a lobbyist and Chairman of the powerful American Jewish Congress Jack Rosen during an informal get-together. One of those present in that meeting was Congressman Gary Ackerman. He argues that there was no complicity in Pakistan not being able to find out Osama bin-Laden. "There are aspersions against Pakistan of hiding Osama bin Laden," Musharraf says in his meeting with US Congressmen. "First of all, is the US against Pakistan, or annoyed with the Army and ISI, because they believe there was complicity? My view is that there was no complicity and I would like to say a few words on that," he told the lawmakers. "There was negligence. Certainly. And we are all ashamed. Even, I, though I am not in the government now, I am ashamed that there was this level of negligence by the ISI that we did not know. I think negligence is pardonable," he said, adding that the CIA was also involved in same level of negligence on 9/11. Referring to the 18 people being trained in the US, Musharraf alleged that CIA being such a big organisation was sleeping. "ISI was also sleeping. Let's leave it at that," he said.

Leaked video shows Musharraf seeking covert US support to regain power

Days after Bangladesh’s elite counter-terrorism unit Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) unearthed a plot of Pakistan Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) trying to sabotage upcoming elections with the help of Bangladesh Nationalist Party leaders, the RAB chief Benazir Ahmed made some startling revelation in an exclusive interaction with Wion.

He said that Pakistan authorities have confirmed that politicians from their country are in touch with a Bangladesh political party to rig polls are scheduled for December 30.

"We have enough inputs shared by our counterparts in Pakistan that some Pakistan based politicians were in touch with a political party in Bangladesh. We have been given specific inputs and we are working on it," said RAB chief.&nbsp;

Ahmed also said that the huge amount of money recovered from two locations in Dhaka was part of a conspiracy aimed to influence voters.

"The money was brought to Bangladesh through hawala and the hundis. It was sourced from middle-eastern countries aimed to influence voters and use the money to create tension by violence. The day we raided these offices on December 25 was the same day a huge amount of money was sent to Shariatpur constituency, later the area witnessed widespread violence," added Ahmed.&nbsp;

Most importantly, Ahmed said that this could be just the tip of the iceberg.&nbsp;

"This is a part of an organised network. We found registers that contained recent entries. The details mentioned constituencies and the amount of black money distributed. We are tracking the money trail," Ahmed said.&nbsp;

On being quizzed whether the acting chairman of the BNP, Tarique Rahman who is on a self-imposed exile in London held meetings with ISI agency regarding the monetary transaction, he said that the possibility that cannot be ruled out.

The RAB is also investigating whether the phone conversation that had surfaced between a BNP leader and ISI agency had any connection with the raid.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Days after Bangladesh’s elite counter-terrorism unit Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) unearthed a plot of Pakistan Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) trying to sabotage upcoming elections with the help of Bangladesh Nationalist Party leaders, the RAB chief Benazir Ahmed made some startling revelation in an exclusive interaction with Wion.

Days after Bangladesh’s elite counter-terrorism unit Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) unearthed a plot of Pakistan Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) trying to sabotage upcoming elections with the help of Bangladesh Nationalist Party leaders, the RAB chief Benazir Ahmed made some startling revelation in an exclusive interaction with Wion. He said that Pakistan authorities have confirmed that politicians from their country are in touch with a Bangladesh political party to rig polls are scheduled for December 30. "We have enough inputs shared by our counterparts in Pakistan that some Pakistan based politicians were in touch with a political party in Bangladesh. We have been given specific inputs and we are working on it," said RAB chief. Ahmed also said that the huge amount of money recovered from two locations in Dhaka was part of a conspiracy aimed to influence voters. "The money was brought to Bangladesh through hawala and the hundis. It was sourced from middle-eastern countries aimed to influence voters and use the money to create tension by violence. The day we raided these offices on December 25 was the same day a huge amount of money was sent to Shariatpur constituency, later the area witnessed widespread violence," added Ahmed. Most importantly, Ahmed said that this could be just the tip of the iceberg. "This is a part of an organised network. We found registers that contained recent entries. The details mentioned constituencies and the amount of black money distributed. We are tracking the money trail," Ahmed said. On being quizzed whether the acting chairman of the BNP, Tarique Rahman who is on a self-imposed exile in London held meetings with ISI agency regarding the monetary transaction, he said that the possibility that cannot be ruled out. The RAB is also investigating whether the phone conversation that had surfaced between a BNP leader and ISI agency had any connection with the raid.

Pakistan leaders are trying to meddle upcoming Bangladesh elections: RAB chief to WION

Dale Steyn became South Africa's leading test wicket-taker and Duanne Olivier took career-best figures as Pakistan were bowled out for 181 on the opening day of the first test on Wednesday.

But the visitors mounted a spirited fightback with the ball, reducing South Africa to 127 for five at the close. Top scorer Themba Bavuma (38 not out) and nightwatchman Steyn (13 not out) will resume on day two with the hosts still trailing by 54 runs.

South Africa ripped through Pakistan after being asked to bowl by visiting captain Sarfraz Ahmed as Olivier, in the side for the injured Vernon Philander, claimed 6-37 with his pace and accuracy on a wicket already showing a variable bounce.

But the headlines will revolve around Steyn, who had opener Fakhar Zaman (12) caught at slip by Elgar to move to 422 test wickets, taking outright top spot on South Africa's all-time list ahead of Shaun Pollock.

He was hoisted on the shoulders of fast bowling partner Kagiso Rabada as the healthy Boxing Day crowd at Centurion Park gave him a standing ovation.

The visitors were in early trouble when Rabada (3-59) had Imam-ul-Haq trapped lbw for a duck.

After Steyn (1-66) had removed Zaman with the score on 17, Pakistan moved past 50 before Shan Masood (19) played the ball on to his own stumps off the impressive Olivier.

Asad Shafiq (seven) never looked comfortable at the crease and became Olivier’s second victim as Pakistan took lunch on 76 for four.

The fast bowler ripped through the middle order after the break, removing Azhar Ali (36), Sarfraz (0) and Mohammad Amir (1) in quick succession.

Pakistan were reduced to 111 for eight but mounted an excellent fightback through Babar Azam (71 from 79 balls) as he put on 67 for the ninth wicket with Hasan Ali (21 not out) before being caught at second slip by Faf du Plessis off Rabada.

Pakistan continued their turnaround with the ball as they reduced the home side to 43 for four when Shaheen Afridi (2-36) took the wickets of Dean Elgar (22) and home captain Du Plessis (0) off successive deliveries, both off the edge of the bat.

Aiden Markram (12) and struggling Hashim Amla (8) also fell to high-quality fast bowling from Hasan and Amir, who picked up the wicket of Theunis de Bruyn (29) late in the day.

Dale Steyn became South Africa's leading test wicket-taker and Duanne Olivier took career-best figures as Pakistan were bowled out for 181 on the opening day of the first test on Wednesday.

Dale Steyn became South Africa's leading test wicket-taker and Duanne Olivier took career-best figures as Pakistan were bowled out for 181 on the opening day of the first test on Wednesday. But the visitors mounted a spirited fightback with the ball, reducing South Africa to 127 for five at the close. Top scorer Themba Bavuma (38 not out) and nightwatchman Steyn (13 not out) will resume on day two with the hosts still trailing by 54 runs. South Africa ripped through Pakistan after being asked to bowl by visiting captain Sarfraz Ahmed as Olivier, in the side for the injured Vernon Philander, claimed 6-37 with his pace and accuracy on a wicket already showing a variable bounce. But the headlines will revolve around Steyn, who had opener Fakhar Zaman (12) caught at slip by Elgar to move to 422 test wickets, taking outright top spot on South Africa's all-time list ahead of Shaun Pollock. He was hoisted on the shoulders of fast bowling partner Kagiso Rabada as the healthy Boxing Day crowd at Centurion Park gave him a standing ovation. The visitors were in early trouble when Rabada (3-59) had Imam-ul-Haq trapped lbw for a duck. After Steyn (1-66) had removed Zaman with the score on 17, Pakistan moved past 50 before Shan Masood (19) played the ball on to his own stumps off the impressive Olivier. Asad Shafiq (seven) never looked comfortable at the crease and became Olivier’s second victim as Pakistan took lunch on 76 for four. The fast bowler ripped through the middle order after the break, removing Azhar Ali (36), Sarfraz (0) and Mohammad Amir (1) in quick succession. Pakistan were reduced to 111 for eight but mounted an excellent fightback through Babar Azam (71 from 79 balls) as he put on 67 for the ninth wicket with Hasan Ali (21 not out) before being caught at second slip by Faf du Plessis off Rabada. Pakistan continued their turnaround with the ball as they reduced the home side to 43 for four when Shaheen Afridi (2-36) took the wickets of Dean Elgar (22) and home captain Du Plessis (0) off successive deliveries, both off the edge of the bat. Aiden Markram (12) and struggling Hashim Amla (8) also fell to high-quality fast bowling from Hasan and Amir, who picked up the wicket of Theunis de Bruyn (29) late in the day.

South Africa's Steyn makes history, Olivier shines before Pakistan fightback

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