Two years after surgical strikes were carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control, Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda on Friday opined that the hype associated with the Surgical Strike was not needed.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, Hooda said, "I do think there was too much hype over it. The military operation was important and we had to do it. Now how much should it have been politicised, whether it is right or wrong is something that should be asked to politicians."

Elaborating upon how the forces on the border should react to events that occur on the Line of Control, Hooda said, "I think the way the things are going on the LoC, we must have a pro-active and unpredictable response unless Pakistan does something to ease tensions and stop infiltrations."

However, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag in September revealed that the Indian Army" had been preparing for the 2016 surgical strike since June 2015, adding that the troops were told that failure was "not an option".

Moreover, Suhag had claimed that if needed, there can be another strike as well.

"We have exhibited our capability. Our troops are motivated and now having done it once, troops are also confident of doing it again. So, if we can do it once, we can do it again and if necessary again and again," he had said.

Two years after surgical strikes were carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control, Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda on Friday opined that the hype associated with the Surgical Strike was not needed.

Two years after surgical strikes were carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control, Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda on Friday opined that the hype associated with the Surgical Strike was not needed. Speaking to ANI, Hooda said, "I do think there was too much hype over it. The military operation was important and we had to do it. Now how much should it have been politicised, whether it is right or wrong is something that should be asked to politicians." Elaborating upon how the forces on the border should react to events that occur on the Line of Control, Hooda said, "I think the way the things are going on the LoC, we must have a pro-active and unpredictable response unless Pakistan does something to ease tensions and stop infiltrations." However, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag in September revealed that the Indian Army" had been preparing for the 2016 surgical strike since June 2015, adding that the troops were told that failure was "not an option". Moreover, Suhag had claimed that if needed, there can be another strike as well. "We have exhibited our capability. Our troops are motivated and now having done it once, troops are also confident of doing it again. So, if we can do it once, we can do it again and if necessary again and again," he had said.

Surgical strike was overhyped, says Lt Gen (retd) DS Hooda

A US official has said that Washington is preparing to buy South Korean artillery shells to send to Ukraine. Amid ongoing talks, the officer said that the US wants to send South Korean 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Seoul insisted that its policy against lethal aid for Ukraine remains and that the United States must be the ammunition's end user.&nbsp;

The official further informed that Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) funds will probably be used to purchase the ammunition. However, it was unclear if they would be shipped though the US territory.

South Korea's defence ministry agreed that negotiations are underway, but only under the premise that US would be using the artillery since the country does not provide lethal aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-calls-south-korea-us-military-drills-open-provocation-threatens-with-retaliation-531722">North Korea calls South Korea-US military drills 'open provocation', threatens retaliation</a>

"In order to make up for the shortage of 155mm ammunition inventories in the US, negotiations are ongoing between the US and Korean companies to export ammunition," the ministry said in a statement.

Even though South Korea is a US ally, it avoids antagonizing Russia, both for economic reasons and because of the influence that Moscow can exert with North Korea. It stations some 27,000 US troops in the&nbsp;South&nbsp;to help protect it from the nuclear-armed North.

The Wall Street Journal also reported on the matter and said the agreement would involve 100,000 rounds of 155mm artillery rounds that would be delivered to Ukraine.

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South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said last month that Seoul has not provided any lethal weapons to Ukraine following a statement from Russian President Vladimir Putin that such a decision would destroy bilateral relations. However, Seoul has given non-lethal aid and assistance to Ukraine.

Meanwhile, US National Security spokesperson John Kirby had said last week that North Korea was supplying Russia with a "significant" number of artillery shells of its own for use in Ukraine. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied any arms shipments.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A US official has said that Washington is preparing to buy South Korean artillery shells to send to Ukraine. Amid ongoing talks, the officer said that the US wants to send South Korean 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine.

A US official has said that Washington is preparing to buy South Korean artillery shells to send to Ukraine. Amid ongoing talks, the officer said that the US wants to send South Korean 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Seoul insisted that its policy against lethal aid for Ukraine remains and that the United States must be the ammunition's end user. The official further informed that Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) funds will probably be used to purchase the ammunition. However, it was unclear if they would be shipped though the US territory. South Korea's defence ministry agreed that negotiations are underway, but only under the premise that US would be using the artillery since the country does not provide lethal aid to Ukraine. Also Read | North Korea calls South Korea-US military drills 'open provocation', threatens retaliation "In order to make up for the shortage of 155mm ammunition inventories in the US, negotiations are ongoing between the US and Korean companies to export ammunition," the ministry said in a statement. Even though South Korea is a US ally, it avoids antagonizing Russia, both for economic reasons and because of the influence that Moscow can exert with North Korea. It stations some 27,000 US troops in the South to help protect it from the nuclear-armed North. The Wall Street Journal also reported on the matter and said the agreement would involve 100,000 rounds of 155mm artillery rounds that would be delivered to Ukraine. × South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said last month that Seoul has not provided any lethal weapons to Ukraine following a statement from Russian President Vladimir Putin that such a decision would destroy bilateral relations. However, Seoul has given non-lethal aid and assistance to Ukraine. Meanwhile, US National Security spokesperson John Kirby had said last week that North Korea was supplying Russia with a "significant" number of artillery shells of its own for use in Ukraine. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied any arms shipments. (With inputs from agencies)

News brief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan's leg-spinner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/yasir-shah-one-of-the-best-spinners-in-modern-cricket-179618">Yasir Shah</a> Thursday became the fastest cricketer to take 200 Test wickets, breaking an 82-year-old record on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old trapped nightwatchman Will Somerville leg before for four -- his second wicket of the New Zealand second innings -- to reach the milestone in his 33rd Test, beating Australian leg-spinner Clarrie Grimmett's record of 36 Tests achieved against South Africa in Johannesburg in 1936.&nbsp;

Yasir, whose 14 wickets helped Pakistan level the series 1-1 in Dubai, now has 27 wickets in the three Tests against New Zealand.

His 14 for 184 were the second best match figures in a Test for Pakistan, behind former captain and current prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan, who bagged 14 for 116 against Sri Lanka in Lahore in 1982.&nbsp;

New Zealand, resuming at 26 for 2 on Thursday, fell to 37 for 3 after Yasir removed Somerville and were still needing 37 runs to make Pakistan bat again.&nbsp;

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Yasir Shah becomes the fastest to 200 Test wickets. 👏 
 
He traps nightwatchman Somerville in front and reaches the landmark in just his 33rd Test! 
 
Congratulations!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvNZ</a> LIVE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/cS8PI6iRJl">https://t.co/cS8PI6iRJl</a> <a href="https://t.co/mdtFVLaqOZ">pic.twitter.com/mdtFVLaqOZ</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070568008140144640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yasir began the Abu Dhabi Test with 195 wickets in 32 Tests and on the opening day grabbed three early wickets but BJ Watling resisted with 77 not out, leaving him having to complete his landmark in the second innings.

Since taking seven wickets on debut against Australia in 2014, Yasir has been a key figure in Pakistan's Test team.

He took 12 wickets in that 2-0 series win over Australia in United Arab Emirates in 2014 and followed that with 15 against New Zealand in a 1-1 draw the same year.

That was followed by 24 wickets against Sri Lanka in 2015 and 10 in a match to beat England at Lord's a year later. He took 21 and 25 wickets respectively in series wins over the West Indies.

Yasir was also the fastest Pakistani to 50 wickets (nine Tests), reached 100 wickets in 17 Tests -- second only to Englishman George Lohmann who took 16 matches during a Test in Johannesburg in 1896.

Pakistan's leg-spinner Yasir Shah Thursday became the fastest cricketer to take 200 Test wickets, breaking an 82-year-old record on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand.

Pakistan's leg-spinner Yasir Shah Thursday became the fastest cricketer to take 200 Test wickets, breaking an 82-year-old record on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand. The 32-year-old trapped nightwatchman Will Somerville leg before for four -- his second wicket of the New Zealand second innings -- to reach the milestone in his 33rd Test, beating Australian leg-spinner Clarrie Grimmett's record of 36 Tests achieved against South Africa in Johannesburg in 1936. Yasir, whose 14 wickets helped Pakistan level the series 1-1 in Dubai, now has 27 wickets in the three Tests against New Zealand. His 14 for 184 were the second best match figures in a Test for Pakistan, behind former captain and current prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan, who bagged 14 for 116 against Sri Lanka in Lahore in 1982. New Zealand, resuming at 26 for 2 on Thursday, fell to 37 for 3 after Yasir removed Somerville and were still needing 37 runs to make Pakistan bat again. Yasir Shah becomes the fastest to 200 Test wickets. 👏 He traps nightwatchman Somerville in front and reaches the landmark in just his 33rd Test! Congratulations!#PAKvNZ LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/cS8PI6iRJl pic.twitter.com/mdtFVLaqOZ — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Yasir began the Abu Dhabi Test with 195 wickets in 32 Tests and on the opening day grabbed three early wickets but BJ Watling resisted with 77 not out, leaving him having to complete his landmark in the second innings. Since taking seven wickets on debut against Australia in 2014, Yasir has been a key figure in Pakistan's Test team. He took 12 wickets in that 2-0 series win over Australia in United Arab Emirates in 2014 and followed that with 15 against New Zealand in a 1-1 draw the same year. That was followed by 24 wickets against Sri Lanka in 2015 and 10 in a match to beat England at Lord's a year later. He took 21 and 25 wickets respectively in series wins over the West Indies. Yasir was also the fastest Pakistani to 50 wickets (nine Tests), reached 100 wickets in 17 Tests -- second only to Englishman George Lohmann who took 16 matches during a Test in Johannesburg in 1896.

Yasir Shah fastest to take 200 Test wickets

India on Thursday voiced strong objection to Pakistan`s move to change the status of Gilgit Baltistan and asked it to immediately end the illegal occupation of these areas along with rest of Jammu and Kashmir under its control.

The comments by External Affairs Ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar came in the wake of reports that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had called a Cabinet meeting to discuss various proposals, including the one to change the status of Gilgit Baltistan.

"Any attempt by Pakistan to change the legal status has no basis whatsoever. We call upon Pakistan to vacate all occupied territories," Kumar said at a press briefing here. Gilgit Baltistan is a part of Jammu and Kashmir annexed by Pakistan in 1947.

"Our statement and position on Gilgit Baltistan have been very consistent and clear. We have said that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir has been and will remain a part of India," Kumar added.&nbsp;

Gilgit Baltistan has witnessed regular protests by activists over alleged human rights violations by the Pakistani authorities in the region.

India on Thursday voiced strong objection to Pakistan`s move to change the status of Gilgit Baltistan and asked it to immediately end the illegal occupation of these areas along with rest of Jammu and Kashmir under its control.

India on Thursday voiced strong objection to Pakistan`s move to change the status of Gilgit Baltistan and asked it to immediately end the illegal occupation of these areas along with rest of Jammu and Kashmir under its control. The comments by External Affairs Ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar came in the wake of reports that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had called a Cabinet meeting to discuss various proposals, including the one to change the status of Gilgit Baltistan. "Any attempt by Pakistan to change the legal status has no basis whatsoever. We call upon Pakistan to vacate all occupied territories," Kumar said at a press briefing here. Gilgit Baltistan is a part of Jammu and Kashmir annexed by Pakistan in 1947. "Our statement and position on Gilgit Baltistan have been very consistent and clear. We have said that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir has been and will remain a part of India," Kumar added. Gilgit Baltistan has witnessed regular protests by activists over alleged human rights violations by the Pakistani authorities in the region.

India voices strong objection to any change in legal status of Gilgit Baltistan by Pakistan

Pakistan's army on Thursday threw its support behind the latest US efforts for a political settlement with the Afghan Taliban to end a 17-year-old war, urging Washington to leave Kabul as a friend of the region rather than a "failure".

The comments by Pakistan's army spokesman, Major-General Asif Ghafoor, came just after the US special representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, concluded a visit to the Pakistani capital of Islamabad.

"As much as we can, we will facilitate," Ghafoor told a news conference in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, replying to a query about what Pakistan could do to help the United States negotiate a political settlement with the Taliban.

"What the US is expecting from us, and the foreign office is cooperating with, is that somehow they could have these negotiations with them (Taliban)."

Ghafoor added, "We wish that (the) US leaves Afghanistan as a friend of the region, not as a failure." He did not elaborate.

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US&nbsp;diplomat who served as George W&nbsp;Bush's ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration three months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace.

His visit to Pakistan followed a request from US President Donald Trump to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking assistance in moving forward peace talks. The overture to Khan came after an exchange of barbed tweets between the leaders last month.

Washington has long been pushing Islamabad to lean on Taliban leaders, who it says are based in Pakistan, to bring them to the negotiating table.

It often accuses the south Asian nation of covertly sheltering Taliban leaders, an accusation Islamabad vehemently denies.

Khan, who enjoys the support of Pakistan's powerful army, which dominates foreign policy, met Khalilzad earlier in the week and also pledged to support a peace process with the Taliban.

The United States, which had more than 100,000 troops in Afghanistan at its peak during the first term of former President Barack Obama, withdrew most of them in 2014 but still keeps around 14,000 there.

Pakistan's army on Thursday threw its support behind the latest US efforts for a political settlement with the Afghan Taliban to end a 17-year-old war, urging Washington to leave Kabul as a friend of the region rather than a "failure".

Pakistan's army on Thursday threw its support behind the latest US efforts for a political settlement with the Afghan Taliban to end a 17-year-old war, urging Washington to leave Kabul as a friend of the region rather than a "failure". The comments by Pakistan's army spokesman, Major-General Asif Ghafoor, came just after the US special representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, concluded a visit to the Pakistani capital of Islamabad. "As much as we can, we will facilitate," Ghafoor told a news conference in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, replying to a query about what Pakistan could do to help the United States negotiate a political settlement with the Taliban. "What the US is expecting from us, and the foreign office is cooperating with, is that somehow they could have these negotiations with them (Taliban)." Ghafoor added, "We wish that (the) US leaves Afghanistan as a friend of the region, not as a failure." He did not elaborate. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W Bush's ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration three months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace. His visit to Pakistan followed a request from US President Donald Trump to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking assistance in moving forward peace talks. The overture to Khan came after an exchange of barbed tweets between the leaders last month. Washington has long been pushing Islamabad to lean on Taliban leaders, who it says are based in Pakistan, to bring them to the negotiating table. It often accuses the south Asian nation of covertly sheltering Taliban leaders, an accusation Islamabad vehemently denies. Khan, who enjoys the support of Pakistan's powerful army, which dominates foreign policy, met Khalilzad earlier in the week and also pledged to support a peace process with the Taliban. The United States, which had more than 100,000 troops in Afghanistan at its peak during the first term of former President Barack Obama, withdrew most of them in 2014 but still keeps around 14,000 there.

Pakistan's army says it backs US peace talks with Afghan Taliban

South Africa have named uncapped middle-order batsman Zubayr Hamza and fast bowler Duanne Olivier in their squad for the three-test home series against Pakistan starting in Pretoria on Boxing Day.

Cape Town-born Hamza, 23, averages almost 50 in first-class cricket but has had a modest domestic season to date with two fifties in nine innings and an average of a little over 31.

The right-hander, who bats at number three for his provincial Cape Cobras side, has been rewarded for his excellent form over the last 18 months though and his potential as a future regular in the team.

"Zubayr has been one of the standout cricketers in domestic cricket over the past year and carried that form into the South Africa A tour to India where he averaged over 50 in the four-day series against tough opposition and under tough conditions," Cricket South Africa national selection panel (NSP) convener Linda Zondi said in a media statement on Thursday.

"Before that, he had an outstanding season in the four-day franchise competition where he scored 823 runs, including three centuries, at the impressive average of 69.

"His selection is part of our vision for the future as we start to feed new players into the system. It is inevitable that some of our senior players will start thinking of retiring in years to come and it is vital that we have a good succession plan in place."

South Africa have also recalled Olivier as a replacement for the injured Lungi Ngidi, who will miss the entire Pakistan tour that also includes five One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 fixtures.

The Proteas have retained experienced batsman Hashim Amla despite a poor run of form that has seen him top-score with 31 in his last nine test innings and continually fail in domestic cricket, with the selection of Hamza possibly much to do with Amla’s struggles.

Fast bowler Dale Steyn will hope to get the one wicket he needs to pass Shaun Pollock as the country’s highest test wicket-taker and has been in excellent bowling form in domestic cricket.

The second test will be played in Cape Town from Jan 3-7, with the series finale in Johannesburg from Jan 11-15.

Squad:

Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Theunis de Bruyn, Quinton de Kock, Dean Elgar, Zubayr Hamza, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn.

South Africa have named uncapped middle-order batsman Zubayr Hamza and fast bowler Duanne Olivier in their squad for the three-test home series against Pakistan starting in Pretoria on Boxing Day.

South Africa have named uncapped middle-order batsman Zubayr Hamza and fast bowler Duanne Olivier in their squad for the three-test home series against Pakistan starting in Pretoria on Boxing Day. Cape Town-born Hamza, 23, averages almost 50 in first-class cricket but has had a modest domestic season to date with two fifties in nine innings and an average of a little over 31. The right-hander, who bats at number three for his provincial Cape Cobras side, has been rewarded for his excellent form over the last 18 months though and his potential as a future regular in the team. "Zubayr has been one of the standout cricketers in domestic cricket over the past year and carried that form into the South Africa A tour to India where he averaged over 50 in the four-day series against tough opposition and under tough conditions," Cricket South Africa national selection panel (NSP) convener Linda Zondi said in a media statement on Thursday. "Before that, he had an outstanding season in the four-day franchise competition where he scored 823 runs, including three centuries, at the impressive average of 69. "His selection is part of our vision for the future as we start to feed new players into the system. It is inevitable that some of our senior players will start thinking of retiring in years to come and it is vital that we have a good succession plan in place." South Africa have also recalled Olivier as a replacement for the injured Lungi Ngidi, who will miss the entire Pakistan tour that also includes five One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 fixtures. The Proteas have retained experienced batsman Hashim Amla despite a poor run of form that has seen him top-score with 31 in his last nine test innings and continually fail in domestic cricket, with the selection of Hamza possibly much to do with Amla’s struggles. Fast bowler Dale Steyn will hope to get the one wicket he needs to pass Shaun Pollock as the country’s highest test wicket-taker and has been in excellent bowling form in domestic cricket. The second test will be played in Cape Town from Jan 3-7, with the series finale in Johannesburg from Jan 11-15. Squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Theunis de Bruyn, Quinton de Kock, Dean Elgar, Zubayr Hamza, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn.

South Africa call on uncapped batsman Zubayr Hamza for Pakistan series

The current trade between India and Pakistan is at a little over USD 2 billion, much below than the potential, and can go up to USD 37 billion if the two countries tear down artificial barriers like lack of connectivity, trust deficit and complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, according to a World Bank report.&nbsp;

The report titled 'Glass Half Full: Promise of Regional Trade in South Asia' was released here on Wednesday.

Dawn reported that it says that the current trade between the two countries is much below than full potential. It could only be harnessed if both countries agree to tear down artificial barriers.

The bank also estimated Pakistan's potential trade with South Asia at USD 39.7bn against the actual current trade of USD 5.1bn.

The report also unpacks four of the critical barriers to effective integration.&nbsp;

The four areas are tariff and para-tariff barriers to trade, complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, a disproportionately high cost of trade, and trust deficit.

Talking to a group of journalists on key points of the report at the World Bank office in Islamabad, lead economist and author of the document Sanjay Kathuria said it was his belief that trust promotes trade, and trade fosters trust, interdependency and constituencies for peace.

In this context, he added, the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor by governments of Pakistan and India would help minimise trust deficit.

He said such steps will boost trust between the two countries.&nbsp;

For realising the trade potential between Pakistan and India, he suggested the two countries can start with specific products facilitation in the first phase.&nbsp;

Kathuria said Pakistan had least air connectivity with South Asian countries, especially India. Pakistan has only six weekly flights each with India and Afghanistan, 10 each with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and only one with Nepal, but no flight with the Maldives and Bhutan.

Compared to this, India has 147 weekly flights with Sri Lanka, followed by 67 with Bangladesh, 32 with the Maldives, 71 with Nepal, 22 with Afghanistan and 23 with Bhutan.

The report recommends ending sensitive lists and para tariffs to enable real progress on the South Asia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) and calls for a multi-pronged effort to remove non-tariff barriers, focusing on information flows, procedures, and infrastructure.

The report stated that Pakistan's decision of not granting MFN status or non-discriminatory market access to India was also a barrier to trade.&nbsp;

The preferential access granted by Pakistan on 82.1% of tariff lines under Safta was partially blocked in the case of India because Pakistan maintained a negative list comprising 1,209 items that could not be imported from India, the report noted.

Policy-makers may draw lessons from the India-Sri Lanka air service liberalisation experience. Connectivity is a key enabler for robust regional cooperation in South Asia.

Kathuria said that reducing policy barriers, such as eliminating the restrictions on trade at the Wagah-Attari border or aiming for seamless, electronic data interchange at border crossings, will be major steps towards reducing the very high costs of trade between Pakistan and India.

He argued that the costs of trade are much higher within South Asia compared to other regions. The average tariff in South Asia is more than double the world average. South Asian countries have greater trade barriers for imports from within the region than from the rest of the world.

The World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, Illango Patchamuthu, said Pakistan is sitting on a huge trade potential that remains largely untapped.&nbsp; 
"A favourable trading regime that reduces the high costs and removes barriers can boost investment opportunities that are critically required for accelerating growth in the country," he said.

The World Bank's Director Macroeconomics, Trade and Investment Caroline Freund said Pakistan's frequent use of tariffs to curb imports or protect local firms increases the prices of hundreds of consumer goods, such as eggs, paper and bicycles.

They also raise the cost of production for firms, making it difficult for them to integrate with regional and global value chains, she said. Pakistan needs to promote export promotion policies to ensure sustainable growth.

On the issue of currency devaluation, she said the undervalued currency is an anti-export measure. She suggests the exchange rate should be determined by the real market trend.&nbsp;

The current trade between India and Pakistan is at a little over USD 2 billion, much below than the potential, and can go up to USD 37 billion if the two countries tear down artificial barriers like lack of connectivity, trust deficit and complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, according to a World Bank report.

The current trade between India and Pakistan is at a little over USD 2 billion, much below than the potential, and can go up to USD 37 billion if the two countries tear down artificial barriers like lack of connectivity, trust deficit and complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, according to a World Bank report. The report titled 'Glass Half Full: Promise of Regional Trade in South Asia' was released here on Wednesday. Dawn reported that it says that the current trade between the two countries is much below than full potential. It could only be harnessed if both countries agree to tear down artificial barriers. The bank also estimated Pakistan's potential trade with South Asia at USD 39.7bn against the actual current trade of USD 5.1bn. The report also unpacks four of the critical barriers to effective integration. The four areas are tariff and para-tariff barriers to trade, complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, a disproportionately high cost of trade, and trust deficit. Talking to a group of journalists on key points of the report at the World Bank office in Islamabad, lead economist and author of the document Sanjay Kathuria said it was his belief that trust promotes trade, and trade fosters trust, interdependency and constituencies for peace. In this context, he added, the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor by governments of Pakistan and India would help minimise trust deficit. He said such steps will boost trust between the two countries. For realising the trade potential between Pakistan and India, he suggested the two countries can start with specific products facilitation in the first phase. Kathuria said Pakistan had least air connectivity with South Asian countries, especially India. Pakistan has only six weekly flights each with India and Afghanistan, 10 each with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and only one with Nepal, but no flight with the Maldives and Bhutan. Compared to this, India has 147 weekly flights with Sri Lanka, followed by 67 with Bangladesh, 32 with the Maldives, 71 with Nepal, 22 with Afghanistan and 23 with Bhutan. The report recommends ending sensitive lists and para tariffs to enable real progress on the South Asia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) and calls for a multi-pronged effort to remove non-tariff barriers, focusing on information flows, procedures, and infrastructure. The report stated that Pakistan's decision of not granting MFN status or non-discriminatory market access to India was also a barrier to trade. The preferential access granted by Pakistan on 82.1% of tariff lines under Safta was partially blocked in the case of India because Pakistan maintained a negative list comprising 1,209 items that could not be imported from India, the report noted. Policy-makers may draw lessons from the India-Sri Lanka air service liberalisation experience. Connectivity is a key enabler for robust regional cooperation in South Asia. Kathuria said that reducing policy barriers, such as eliminating the restrictions on trade at the Wagah-Attari border or aiming for seamless, electronic data interchange at border crossings, will be major steps towards reducing the very high costs of trade between Pakistan and India. He argued that the costs of trade are much higher within South Asia compared to other regions. The average tariff in South Asia is more than double the world average. South Asian countries have greater trade barriers for imports from within the region than from the rest of the world. The World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, Illango Patchamuthu, said Pakistan is sitting on a huge trade potential that remains largely untapped. "A favourable trading regime that reduces the high costs and removes barriers can boost investment opportunities that are critically required for accelerating growth in the country," he said. The World Bank's Director Macroeconomics, Trade and Investment Caroline Freund said Pakistan's frequent use of tariffs to curb imports or protect local firms increases the prices of hundreds of consumer goods, such as eggs, paper and bicycles. They also raise the cost of production for firms, making it difficult for them to integrate with regional and global value chains, she said. Pakistan needs to promote export promotion policies to ensure sustainable growth. On the issue of currency devaluation, she said the undervalued currency is an anti-export measure. She suggests the exchange rate should be determined by the real market trend.

India, Pakistan trade much below than potential: World Bank report

Unprecedented scenes of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-anti-pakistan-protests-breaks-out-across-gilgit-baltistan-against-illegal-taxation-24492">anti-Pakistan sentiment</a> swept across the illegally occupied territories of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir where locals gathered in thousands to protest against the seven-decades of subjugation of Islamabad.

While expressing anger over exploitation of their land and resources, people demanded an absolute freedom from the clutches of Pakistan.

Leaders urged the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-pakistan-protests-across-pok-to-mark-1947-invasion-22724">protesters</a> to ramp up their peaceful campaigns citing Pakistan will soon have the authority over all their prerogatives with locals reeling under abject poverty and depravity.

Shafqat Inqalabi, the leader of Karakoram National Movement said, "I just want to ask as to which freedom you will ask for when your water and electricity will be owned by someone else. What will you do when mountains of Gilgit will be given to Pathans and Punjabis? What are we going to with the freedom that will come after the water of Neelum-Jhelum comes under their control and they will have a complete authority over the resources and equipment of Bhasha?"

Suppressed for seven decades, the people of PoK have not only been denied basic rights but are also forced to lead their lives on terms dictated by Islamabad`s political puppets in the region.

The protesting leader accused that Pakistan is hell-bent on destroying their identity and has been propagating a narrative that suits its oppressive agenda in the region.

Another Nationalist leader, Sardar Ahmad stated that Pakistan lies about its own history and has denied the history of Kashmir.

"Pakistan is being taught the book `Mutala-e-Pakistan` which is full of lies. The book is full of misinformation. Pakistan lies about its own history. The history which is taught to our children carries the narrative of rulers and politicians of Pakistan and not the narrative of locals. The history of Kashmir is banned," Ahmad stated.

Thousands of people gathered in Hunza valley to protest against the intermittent and hours-long power cuts that have made the lives of the locals miserable.

Lamenting the novercal treatment meted out to them by the authorities, locals asserted that hefty bills were being charged from them for limited hours of power supply with students and women who required the energy most are taking the toll of the mistreatment.

Singer Abida Khanum also participated in the protest saying, "Today, we have gathered here because Hunza has no electricity for days now. It is said that Hunza is a developed region but we, the local citizens know the fact, and we know what is going behind the bushes."

She further asserted that the people of Hunza valley have been deprived of basic human rights as well as constitutional rights by the government of Pakistan.

"We are not getting our basic rights here, we are not getting constitutional rights and we are not getting all other rights too. There is an acute shortage of water and electricity and all those people who are sitting at higher constitutional positions have everything for them; they have generators. It is an incompetent and a puppet administration. Everybody, especially the students and women are only suffering," Khanum said.

The region, which was forcefully occupied more than seven decades ago by Pakistan, has still not been given any recognition or constitutional status.

It continues to suffer a step motherly treatment. People demanding their rights are more than often subjected to inhumane treatment with their voices getting muzzled with brute force.&nbsp;

Unprecedented scenes of anti-Pakistan sentiment swept across the illegally occupied territories of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir where locals gathered in thousands to protest against the seven-decades of subjugation of Islamabad.

Unprecedented scenes of anti-Pakistan sentiment swept across the illegally occupied territories of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir where locals gathered in thousands to protest against the seven-decades of subjugation of Islamabad. While expressing anger over exploitation of their land and resources, people demanded an absolute freedom from the clutches of Pakistan. Leaders urged the protesters to ramp up their peaceful campaigns citing Pakistan will soon have the authority over all their prerogatives with locals reeling under abject poverty and depravity. Shafqat Inqalabi, the leader of Karakoram National Movement said, "I just want to ask as to which freedom you will ask for when your water and electricity will be owned by someone else. What will you do when mountains of Gilgit will be given to Pathans and Punjabis? What are we going to with the freedom that will come after the water of Neelum-Jhelum comes under their control and they will have a complete authority over the resources and equipment of Bhasha?" Suppressed for seven decades, the people of PoK have not only been denied basic rights but are also forced to lead their lives on terms dictated by Islamabad`s political puppets in the region. The protesting leader accused that Pakistan is hell-bent on destroying their identity and has been propagating a narrative that suits its oppressive agenda in the region. Another Nationalist leader, Sardar Ahmad stated that Pakistan lies about its own history and has denied the history of Kashmir. "Pakistan is being taught the book `Mutala-e-Pakistan` which is full of lies. The book is full of misinformation. Pakistan lies about its own history. The history which is taught to our children carries the narrative of rulers and politicians of Pakistan and not the narrative of locals. The history of Kashmir is banned," Ahmad stated. Thousands of people gathered in Hunza valley to protest against the intermittent and hours-long power cuts that have made the lives of the locals miserable. Lamenting the novercal treatment meted out to them by the authorities, locals asserted that hefty bills were being charged from them for limited hours of power supply with students and women who required the energy most are taking the toll of the mistreatment. Singer Abida Khanum also participated in the protest saying, "Today, we have gathered here because Hunza has no electricity for days now. It is said that Hunza is a developed region but we, the local citizens know the fact, and we know what is going behind the bushes." She further asserted that the people of Hunza valley have been deprived of basic human rights as well as constitutional rights by the government of Pakistan. "We are not getting our basic rights here, we are not getting constitutional rights and we are not getting all other rights too. There is an acute shortage of water and electricity and all those people who are sitting at higher constitutional positions have everything for them; they have generators. It is an incompetent and a puppet administration. Everybody, especially the students and women are only suffering," Khanum said. The region, which was forcefully occupied more than seven decades ago by Pakistan, has still not been given any recognition or constitutional status. It continues to suffer a step motherly treatment. People demanding their rights are more than often subjected to inhumane treatment with their voices getting muzzled with brute force.

Anti-Pakistan protests erupt in PoK, protesters demand basic rights

Pakistan's expulsion of 18 international aid agencies will hurt 11 million aid recipients in a South Asian nation grappling with perilously low standards of education and healthcare, two Western diplomats said on Tuesday.

Affected NGOs include World Vision, Pathfinder, Plan International, Trocaire and Saferworld. Another group, ActionAid, last week said it was closing offices and laying off staff after the government told it to halt operations and leave.

US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said the United States "regrets" Pakistan`s decision and noted that many of the 18 groups had worked in the country for years, employing thousands of Pakistanis and working to improve the lives of ordinary people.

Pakistan`s interior ministry confirmed it had rejected appeals of 18 NGOs that had been allowed to continue operations while appeals were being reviewed. It declined to give further details.&nbsp;

Aid groups and western diplomats blasted a lack of transparency in the process of expulsion and review of appeals.&nbsp;

"It is as appalling as it is inexplicable that the government has decided to deprive 11 million of its own people of much-needed support with no apparent reason," a Western diplomat told Reuters, asking not to be identified.

The interior ministry did not immediately respond to the diplomats` comments. Instead, it referred Reuters to a November 15 statement in which Pakistan`s foreign office said policies regarding international aid groups were "fully aligned" with nationally determined development priorities and needs, and that Islamabad appreciated the assistance provided by donor agencies.&nbsp;

"Representatives of all 18 INGOs were given the right to appeal and the opportunity to provide additional details and discuss mutual concerns," it added.

"As for shrinking space, the evidence is contrary to assertions. Out of 141 that applied for registration since October 2015, applications of 74 INGOs have been approved."

A total of 27 international NGOs received expulsion orders late last year, but 18 appealed. Most of the affected groups worked on human rights and advocacy issues.&nbsp;

Pakistani journalists have complained about growing curbs on media freedom. Islamabad has clamped down on foreign-funded aid groups for years.

"The international community is disappointed by the recent forced closures of a number of international NGOs," another Western diplomat told Reuters.&nbsp;

"We have consistently expressed our concern to the government and continue to urge a clear and transparent process to ensure INGOs can operate effectively in Pakistan or understand the reasons for their eviction."

Pakistan's expulsion of 18 international aid agencies will hurt 11 million aid recipients in a South Asian nation grappling with perilously low standards of education and healthcare, two Western diplomats said on Tuesday.

Pakistan's expulsion of 18 international aid agencies will hurt 11 million aid recipients in a South Asian nation grappling with perilously low standards of education and healthcare, two Western diplomats said on Tuesday. Affected NGOs include World Vision, Pathfinder, Plan International, Trocaire and Saferworld. Another group, ActionAid, last week said it was closing offices and laying off staff after the government told it to halt operations and leave. US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said the United States "regrets" Pakistan`s decision and noted that many of the 18 groups had worked in the country for years, employing thousands of Pakistanis and working to improve the lives of ordinary people. Pakistan`s interior ministry confirmed it had rejected appeals of 18 NGOs that had been allowed to continue operations while appeals were being reviewed. It declined to give further details. Aid groups and western diplomats blasted a lack of transparency in the process of expulsion and review of appeals. "It is as appalling as it is inexplicable that the government has decided to deprive 11 million of its own people of much-needed support with no apparent reason," a Western diplomat told Reuters, asking not to be identified. The interior ministry did not immediately respond to the diplomats` comments. Instead, it referred Reuters to a November 15 statement in which Pakistan`s foreign office said policies regarding international aid groups were "fully aligned" with nationally determined development priorities and needs, and that Islamabad appreciated the assistance provided by donor agencies. "Representatives of all 18 INGOs were given the right to appeal and the opportunity to provide additional details and discuss mutual concerns," it added. "As for shrinking space, the evidence is contrary to assertions. Out of 141 that applied for registration since October 2015, applications of 74 INGOs have been approved." A total of 27 international NGOs received expulsion orders late last year, but 18 appealed. Most of the affected groups worked on human rights and advocacy issues. Pakistani journalists have complained about growing curbs on media freedom. Islamabad has clamped down on foreign-funded aid groups for years. "The international community is disappointed by the recent forced closures of a number of international NGOs," another Western diplomat told Reuters. "We have consistently expressed our concern to the government and continue to urge a clear and transparent process to ensure INGOs can operate effectively in Pakistan or understand the reasons for their eviction."

Pakistan's aid group clampdown could hit 11 million people, diplomats say

Pakistan President Arif Alvi has instructed officials of the foreign and interior ministries to resolve the issue of the nationality of a "stateless" five-month-old baby girl who is fighting a life-threatening heart disease in the UAE, his office said on Wednesday.

The story of the "stateless" baby was published last month in a Gulf newspaper, which reported that the father of the girl is a British national while her mother is a Pakistani national and the baby herself was born in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE.

The baby is not considered a citizen by either of her parent's home countries and hence unable to get a passport.

The father approached the Pakistani Embassy in the UAE to get a passport for her daughter as her mother is a citizen of Pakistan. However, the embassy told him that only father of a child can apply for a passport according to the Pakistani laws.

Taking notice of the story, President Alvi "instructed the Foreign Office to look into the matter in order to resolve the issue."

After his intervention, the foreign ministry in collaboration with interior ministry is working to resolve the question of the identity of the baby, according to his office.

Pakistan President Arif Alvi has instructed officials of the foreign and interior ministries to resolve the issue of the nationality of a "stateless" five-month-old baby girl who is fighting a life-threatening heart disease in the UAE, his office said on Wednesday.

Pakistan President Arif Alvi has instructed officials of the foreign and interior ministries to resolve the issue of the nationality of a "stateless" five-month-old baby girl who is fighting a life-threatening heart disease in the UAE, his office said on Wednesday. The story of the "stateless" baby was published last month in a Gulf newspaper, which reported that the father of the girl is a British national while her mother is a Pakistani national and the baby herself was born in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. The baby is not considered a citizen by either of her parent's home countries and hence unable to get a passport. The father approached the Pakistani Embassy in the UAE to get a passport for her daughter as her mother is a citizen of Pakistan. However, the embassy told him that only father of a child can apply for a passport according to the Pakistani laws. Taking notice of the story, President Alvi "instructed the Foreign Office to look into the matter in order to resolve the issue." After his intervention, the foreign ministry in collaboration with interior ministry is working to resolve the question of the identity of the baby, according to his office.

Pak President Alvi instructs officials to resolve nationality issue of 5-month old 'stateless' baby

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country.

Khan held talks with Khalilzad, who arrived here on Tuesday to coordinate closely with the Pakistani leadership on the US efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan.

The prime minister "reiterated Pakistan's abiding interest in achieving peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan through a political settlement," according to a statement by the PM Office.

"Pakistan wants a political solution to Afghan peace and reconciliation," he told Khalilzad.

During the meeting, the US special envoy conveyed President Donald Trump's best wishes.

"The US leadership is looking for a peaceful solution to the Afghan peace process and mutual cooperation between the two sides," Khalilzad told the premier.

Khalilzad also met Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and reiterated President Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace and stability in Afghanistan, according to a Foreign Office spokesman.

"The FM assured the US side of Pakistan's steadfast support for a negotiated settlement," said the spokesman.

"Pakistan will continue to cooperate with sincerity for a political settlement in Afghanistan. Long-lasting peace in Afghanistan is in Pakistan's best interest," Qureshi tweeted.

Khalilzad also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, where officials from diplomatic, security and defence from both sides present at the meeting.

"Peace and political settlement in Afghanistan was discussed," according to the spokesman.

Pakistan is accused by both US and Afghanistan of supporting the Taliban&nbsp;who have waged a more than a 17-year old insurgency.

Pakistan maintains that the Taliban have long shifted to Afghanistan where they control a sizeable area and that it has little control over them.

Khalilzad arrived here a day after Pakistan announced that President&nbsp;Trump has written a letter to Prime Minister Khan, seeking Islamabad's&nbsp;"assistance and facilitation in achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war."

Khan told the media on Monday that resolution of the conflict in Afghanistan was also in the best interest of Pakistan, which always made serious efforts to bring peace in the neighbouring country.

Khalilzad will also travel to other regional countries including Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to seek support for his mission.

Afghan-origin Khalilzad served as a special envoy of President George W Bush following the fall of the Taliban government in 2001. He also served as US ambassador to Afghanistan.

He is seen in Pakistan as a hawk who has often accused Islamabad of supporting Taliban militants.

It's his second visit to Pakistan following his appointment as special representative and reflects the Trump administration's intent to support, facilitate, and participate in a peace process in Afghanistan.

After his first trip in October, Pakistan announced that it released senior Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar to help in the efforts of peace in Afghanistan.

Baradar, the former right-hand man of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, was among several senior Taliban leaders freed in recent months, after the Taliban demanded their release in direct talks with Khalilzad on October 12.

It is believed that Mulla Baradar's release would help persuade Afghan Taliban to lay down arms and negotiate in new peace talks.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country. Khan held talks with Khalilzad, who arrived here on Tuesday to coordinate closely with the Pakistani leadership on the US efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan. The prime minister "reiterated Pakistan's abiding interest in achieving peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan through a political settlement," according to a statement by the PM Office. "Pakistan wants a political solution to Afghan peace and reconciliation," he told Khalilzad. During the meeting, the US special envoy conveyed President Donald Trump's best wishes. "The US leadership is looking for a peaceful solution to the Afghan peace process and mutual cooperation between the two sides," Khalilzad told the premier. Khalilzad also met Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and reiterated President Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace and stability in Afghanistan, according to a Foreign Office spokesman. "The FM assured the US side of Pakistan's steadfast support for a negotiated settlement," said the spokesman. "Pakistan will continue to cooperate with sincerity for a political settlement in Afghanistan. Long-lasting peace in Afghanistan is in Pakistan's best interest," Qureshi tweeted. Khalilzad also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, where officials from diplomatic, security and defence from both sides present at the meeting. "Peace and political settlement in Afghanistan was discussed," according to the spokesman. Pakistan is accused by both US and Afghanistan of supporting the Taliban who have waged a more than a 17-year old insurgency. Pakistan maintains that the Taliban have long shifted to Afghanistan where they control a sizeable area and that it has little control over them. Khalilzad arrived here a day after Pakistan announced that President Trump has written a letter to Prime Minister Khan, seeking Islamabad's "assistance and facilitation in achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war." Khan told the media on Monday that resolution of the conflict in Afghanistan was also in the best interest of Pakistan, which always made serious efforts to bring peace in the neighbouring country. Khalilzad will also travel to other regional countries including Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to seek support for his mission. Afghan-origin Khalilzad served as a special envoy of President George W Bush following the fall of the Taliban government in 2001. He also served as US ambassador to Afghanistan. He is seen in Pakistan as a hawk who has often accused Islamabad of supporting Taliban militants. It's his second visit to Pakistan following his appointment as special representative and reflects the Trump administration's intent to support, facilitate, and participate in a peace process in Afghanistan. After his first trip in October, Pakistan announced that it released senior Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar to help in the efforts of peace in Afghanistan. Baradar, the former right-hand man of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, was among several senior Taliban leaders freed in recent months, after the Taliban demanded their release in direct talks with Khalilzad on October 12. It is believed that Mulla Baradar's release would help persuade Afghan Taliban to lay down arms and negotiate in new peace talks.

Pak supports peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan: Imran Khan tells US special envoy

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.

Pakistan assured visiting US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday that it would back a negotiated settlement with the Taliban to end the long war in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump personally asked for Islamabad's help.

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W. Bush's ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration three months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace in Afghanistan.

His visit to Pakistan came a day after Pakistani officials confirmed that Trump had written to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking assistance in moving peace talks forward. Khan said Pakistan would do whatever possible to help Washington negotiate with the Taliban.

Khalilzad arrived on Tuesday in Islamabad and called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a foreign office statement said.&nbsp;

It said the envoy reiterated Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace in Afghanistan. Khalilzad on Sunday began an eight-country tour, including Pakistan, Russia and Qatar, to promote peace and convince the Taliban to join negotiations.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. Pakistan assured visiting US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday that it would back a negotiated settlement with the Taliban to end the long war in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump personally asked for Islamabad's help.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. Pakistan assured visiting US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday that it would back a negotiated settlement with the Taliban to end the long war in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump personally asked for Islamabad's help. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W. Bush's ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration three months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace in Afghanistan. His visit to Pakistan came a day after Pakistani officials confirmed that Trump had written to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking assistance in moving peace talks forward. Khan said Pakistan would do whatever possible to help Washington negotiate with the Taliban. Khalilzad arrived on Tuesday in Islamabad and called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a foreign office statement said. It said the envoy reiterated Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace in Afghanistan. Khalilzad on Sunday began an eight-country tour, including Pakistan, Russia and Qatar, to promote peace and convince the Taliban to join negotiations.

Watch: US envoy meets Pakistan PM Imran Khan in Islamabad

Pakistan continues to use Afghan Taliban as a hedge against India, a top American commander has told lawmakers, as he expressed the US frustration over Islamabad's failure to take concrete steps to deny safe havens to terrorist groups.&nbsp;

Marine Corps Lt Genenral Kenneth McKenzie's remarks came days after US President Donald Trump sought Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's help in the Afghan peace process.&nbsp;

The Trump administration, in the recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the 9/11 terror attacks.

The Taliban are fighting to flush out US-led international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.&nbsp;

"Pakistan is an essential element in long-term stability in Afghanistan," McKenzie told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee Tuesday during his confirmation hearing for commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

Pakistan could play a key role in facilitating talks between the Taliban and government of Afghanistan, he said.

"Pakistan does not appear to be using the full extent of its influence to encourage the Taliban to come to the table," he said.

"We continue to see the Taliban being utilised as a hedge against India rather than as part of a stable, reconciled Afghanistan," McKenzie said.

His answers to the Senate Armed Services Committee come after it became public that Trump has written a letter to Imran Khan, seeking his help in the Afghan peace process.

"President Trump sent a letter to Prime Minister Khan, requesting Pakistan's full support to the US-led Afghan peace process and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad's upcoming trip to the region," a spokesperson of the National Security Council, White House, told PTI.

"In the letter, the President recognises that Pakistan has the ability to deny the Taliban sanctuary on its territory," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

"The letter also makes it clear that Pakistan's assistance with the Afghan peace process is fundamental to building an enduring US-Pakistan partnership," the spokesperson said.

McKenzie told lawmakers that he did not see much of a change in Pakistan's behaviour towards Afghanistan or its stand against terrorist groups. 
Despite Pakistan's positive rhetoric in support of the US' South Asia Strategy, violent extremist organisations (VEOs) operate along its border with Afghanistan, he said.

"While Pakistan has conducted some operations against VEOs in the country, they must continue to expand these operations and remain aggressively engaged," McKenzie said.

"Taking concrete steps that deny VEO safe havens in Pakistan, as well as VEO freedom of movement from Pakistan to Afghanistan, remains an important task that Pakistan needs to fulfil. Pakistan must leverage their influence over the Taliban leadership to help compel them to come to the table for reconciliation negotiations," he added.&nbsp;

McKenzie said the US CENTCOM would continue to support the State Department as it works towards a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Afghanistan which includes ensuring that Islamabad's equities are acknowledged in any future agreement.

"Pakistan's action or inaction, as it relates to stability in Afghanistan, has often led to US's frustration," he said, adding that stability in the South Asia region remains the most important mutual strategic interest for both the US and Pakistan.

"We must continue to engage with the Pakistani leadership to realise how we can achieve this mutual interest," McKenzie said.&nbsp;

"I do believe that any solution in Afghanistan is going to require the assistance of Pakistan. It has to be a regional solution, not just a solution centred in Afghanistan," he said.&nbsp;

It is in Pakistan's long-term interest to have a government in Afghanistan that is stable, and that that they can do business with, he said.&nbsp;

"So I think Pakistan has not shown indications, by and large over the last few years, of being a serious partner in this regard," McKenzie said.&nbsp;

US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Islamabad. McKenzie said that the meeting was to see if the US can find some way forward. It will be hard to reach a settlement without some form of assistance or Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Probably Pakistan knows very clearly that their assistance will be required to reach an end-state in Afghanistan. I think the task that we have is to make it attractive to them so that they see that it is in their best interest to do that,"McKenzie said.

Pakistan continues to use Afghan Taliban as a hedge against India, a top American commander has told lawmakers, as he expressed the US frustration over Islamabad's failure to take concrete steps to deny safe havens to terrorist groups.

Pakistan continues to use Afghan Taliban as a hedge against India, a top American commander has told lawmakers, as he expressed the US frustration over Islamabad's failure to take concrete steps to deny safe havens to terrorist groups. Marine Corps Lt Genenral Kenneth McKenzie's remarks came days after US President Donald Trump sought Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's help in the Afghan peace process. The Trump administration, in the recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the 9/11 terror attacks. The Taliban are fighting to flush out US-led international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001. "Pakistan is an essential element in long-term stability in Afghanistan," McKenzie told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee Tuesday during his confirmation hearing for commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM). Pakistan could play a key role in facilitating talks between the Taliban and government of Afghanistan, he said. "Pakistan does not appear to be using the full extent of its influence to encourage the Taliban to come to the table," he said. "We continue to see the Taliban being utilised as a hedge against India rather than as part of a stable, reconciled Afghanistan," McKenzie said. His answers to the Senate Armed Services Committee come after it became public that Trump has written a letter to Imran Khan, seeking his help in the Afghan peace process. "President Trump sent a letter to Prime Minister Khan, requesting Pakistan's full support to the US-led Afghan peace process and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad's upcoming trip to the region," a spokesperson of the National Security Council, White House, told PTI. "In the letter, the President recognises that Pakistan has the ability to deny the Taliban sanctuary on its territory," the spokesperson said. "The letter also makes it clear that Pakistan's assistance with the Afghan peace process is fundamental to building an enduring US-Pakistan partnership," the spokesperson said. McKenzie told lawmakers that he did not see much of a change in Pakistan's behaviour towards Afghanistan or its stand against terrorist groups. Despite Pakistan's positive rhetoric in support of the US' South Asia Strategy, violent extremist organisations (VEOs) operate along its border with Afghanistan, he said. "While Pakistan has conducted some operations against VEOs in the country, they must continue to expand these operations and remain aggressively engaged," McKenzie said. "Taking concrete steps that deny VEO safe havens in Pakistan, as well as VEO freedom of movement from Pakistan to Afghanistan, remains an important task that Pakistan needs to fulfil. Pakistan must leverage their influence over the Taliban leadership to help compel them to come to the table for reconciliation negotiations," he added. McKenzie said the US CENTCOM would continue to support the State Department as it works towards a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Afghanistan which includes ensuring that Islamabad's equities are acknowledged in any future agreement. "Pakistan's action or inaction, as it relates to stability in Afghanistan, has often led to US's frustration," he said, adding that stability in the South Asia region remains the most important mutual strategic interest for both the US and Pakistan. "We must continue to engage with the Pakistani leadership to realise how we can achieve this mutual interest," McKenzie said. "I do believe that any solution in Afghanistan is going to require the assistance of Pakistan. It has to be a regional solution, not just a solution centred in Afghanistan," he said. It is in Pakistan's long-term interest to have a government in Afghanistan that is stable, and that that they can do business with, he said. "So I think Pakistan has not shown indications, by and large over the last few years, of being a serious partner in this regard," McKenzie said. US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Islamabad. McKenzie said that the meeting was to see if the US can find some way forward. It will be hard to reach a settlement without some form of assistance or Pakistan. "Probably Pakistan knows very clearly that their assistance will be required to reach an end-state in Afghanistan. I think the task that we have is to make it attractive to them so that they see that it is in their best interest to do that,"McKenzie said.

Pakistan continues to use Afghan Taliban as hedge against India: US commander

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opinion-can-imran-khan-make-peace-with-india-160122">war is not a solution</a> to the Kashmir issue, which can be resolved through talks.&nbsp;

In an interview to a group of television journalists here, Khan said unless there was a dialogue, various options on resolution of Kashmir cannot be discussed.

When asked about the formula to resolve the Kashmir issue, Khan said there were two or three solutions, which have been in discussions.

He, however, refused to share more details, saying it was "too early to talk about them".

Khan claimed he was informed by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former foreign minister Natwar Singh during a conference that Kashmir would have been resolved if the BJP had not lost the 2004 Lok Sabha elections.

"It shows that there is a solution of Kashmir and both countries were close to resolve it," the Pakistani prime minister insisted.

Ruling out the possibility of any war with India, he said two nuclear armed countries would not fight because "there are always unintended consequences".

Asserting that Pakistan was serious to develop peaceful ties with all its neighbours, Khan claimed India was not ready to hold talks with the country due to the upcoming general elections.&nbsp;

Replying to a query on his views on the military's role in shaping of foreign policy in every country, including the US, he said, "Advice from the establishment is taken in those issues where security situation is involved."&nbsp;

Khan said the Pakistan Army and his government "are on the same page" and his decisions are "backed" by the military.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said war is not a solution to the Kashmir issue, which can be resolved through talks. In an interview to a group of television journalists here, Khan said unless there was a dialogue, various options on resolution of Kashmir cannot be discussed.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said war is not a solution to the Kashmir issue, which can be resolved through talks. In an interview to a group of television journalists here, Khan said unless there was a dialogue, various options on resolution of Kashmir cannot be discussed. When asked about the formula to resolve the Kashmir issue, Khan said there were two or three solutions, which have been in discussions. He, however, refused to share more details, saying it was "too early to talk about them". Khan claimed he was informed by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former foreign minister Natwar Singh during a conference that Kashmir would have been resolved if the BJP had not lost the 2004 Lok Sabha elections. "It shows that there is a solution of Kashmir and both countries were close to resolve it," the Pakistani prime minister insisted. Ruling out the possibility of any war with India, he said two nuclear armed countries would not fight because "there are always unintended consequences". Asserting that Pakistan was serious to develop peaceful ties with all its neighbours, Khan claimed India was not ready to hold talks with the country due to the upcoming general elections. Replying to a query on his views on the military's role in shaping of foreign policy in every country, including the US, he said, "Advice from the establishment is taken in those issues where security situation is involved." Khan said the Pakistan Army and his government "are on the same page" and his decisions are "backed" by the military.

There are two or three solutions to Kashmir issue: Imran Khan

Pakistan's expulsion of 18 international aid agencies will hurt 11 million aid recipients in a South Asian nation grappling with perilously low standards of education and healthcare, two Western diplomats said on Tuesday.

Affected NGOs include World Vision, Pathfinder, Plan International, Trocaire and Saferworld, while another group, ActionAid, last week said it was closing offices and laying off staff after the government told it to halt operations and leave.

Pakistan's interior ministry confirmed it had rejected the appeals of 18 NGOs that had been allowed to continue operations while their appeals were being reviewed, but declined to give further details.

Aid groups and western diplomats have criticised a lack of transparency in the process of expulsion and the review of appeals by the aid agencies, saying they crimped humanitarian work.

"It is as appalling as it is inexplicable that the government has decided to deprive 11 million of its own people of much-needed support with no apparent reason," a Western diplomat told Reuters, asking not to be identified.

The interior ministry did not immediately respond to the diplomats' comments, instead referring Reuters to a statement by Pakistan's foreign office last month.

In its Nov. 15 statement, the foreign office said policies regarding international aid groups were "fully aligned" with nationally determined development priorities and needs, and that Islamabad appreciated the assistance provided by donor agencies.

"Representatives of all 18 INGOs were given the right to appeal and the opportunity to provide additional details and discuss mutual concerns," it added.

"As for shrinking space, the evidence is contrary to assertions. Out of 141 that applied for registration since October 2015, applications of 74 INGOs have been approved."

A total of 27 international NGOs received expulsion orders late last year, but 18 appealed. Most of the affected groups worked on human rights and advocacy issues.

This week's expulsion orders come amid complaints by Pakistani journalists about growing curbs on media freedom, though Islamabad has clamped down on foreign-funded aid groups for years.

"The international community is disappointed by the recent forced closures of a number of international NGOs," another Western diplomat told Reuters.

"We have consistently expressed our concern to the government and continue to urge a clear and transparent process to ensure INGOs can operate effectively in Pakistan or understand the reasons for their eviction."

Pakistan's expulsion of 18 international aid agencies will hurt 11 million aid recipients in a South Asian nation grappling with perilously low standards of education and healthcare, two Western diplomats said on Tuesday. Affected NGOs include World Vision, Pathfinder, Plan International, Trocaire and Saferworld, while another group, ActionAid, last week said it was closing offices and laying off staff after the government told it to halt operations and leave. Pakistan's interior ministry confirmed it had rejected the appeals of 18 NGOs that had been allowed to continue operations while their appeals were being reviewed, but declined to give further details. Aid groups and western diplomats have criticised a lack of transparency in the process of expulsion and the review of appeals by the aid agencies, saying they crimped humanitarian work. "It is as appalling as it is inexplicable that the government has decided to deprive 11 million of its own people of much-needed support with no apparent reason," a Western diplomat told Reuters, asking not to be identified. The interior ministry did not immediately respond to the diplomats' comments, instead referring Reuters to a statement by Pakistan's foreign office last month. In its Nov. 15 statement, the foreign office said policies regarding international aid groups were "fully aligned" with nationally determined development priorities and needs, and that Islamabad appreciated the assistance provided by donor agencies. "Representatives of all 18 INGOs were given the right to appeal and the opportunity to provide additional details and discuss mutual concerns," it added. "As for shrinking space, the evidence is contrary to assertions. Out of 141 that applied for registration since October 2015, applications of 74 INGOs have been approved." A total of 27 international NGOs received expulsion orders late last year, but 18 appealed. Most of the affected groups worked on human rights and advocacy issues. This week's expulsion orders come amid complaints by Pakistani journalists about growing curbs on media freedom, though Islamabad has clamped down on foreign-funded aid groups for years. "The international community is disappointed by the recent forced closures of a number of international NGOs," another Western diplomat told Reuters. "We have consistently expressed our concern to the government and continue to urge a clear and transparent process to ensure INGOs can operate effectively in Pakistan or understand the reasons for their eviction."

Pakistan's aid group clampdown could hit 11 million people: Diplomats

China on Tuesday welcomed<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-for-his-ex-lawyer-michael-cohen-to-be-jailed-181267"> US President Donald Trump</a>'s move to seek Pakistan's support for his efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in Afghanistan.

Trump has written to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Islamabad's "assistance and facilitation in achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war".

Commenting on the development, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, "we welcome sound interaction between Pakistan and the US".

"Sound and steady development of Pakistan-US relations is conducive to the realisation of the reconstruction of Afghanistan as well as anti-terrorism endeavours," he said.

It is also conducive to regional peace and stability.

"We are pleased to see the improvement of their bilateral relations (and we) support their mutually beneficial cooperation and to step up communication on this issue," Geng said.

In the letter, Trump "stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation."

In Washington, a spokesperson of the US National Security Council told PTI that "the president recognises that Pakistan has the ability to deny the Taliban sanctuary on its territory...The letter also makes clear that Pakistan's assistance with the Afghan peace process is fundamental to building an enduring

US-Pakistan partnership." 
Since taking office, Trump has been very critical of Pakistan's lax attitude towards combatting terrorism.

Last month, Trump said Pakistan does not do "a damn thing" for the US, alleging that Islamabad had helped al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden hide near its garrison city of Abbottabad.

Ties between the US and Pakistan strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists.

In September, the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups like the Haqqani Network and the Taliban active on its soil.

The Trump administration, in recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over

2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/united-states-observes-17-years-of-911-attacks-165144"> 9/11 terror attacks</a>.

The Taliban are fighting to flush out US-led international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.

China on Tuesday welcomed US President Donald Trump's move to seek Pakistan's support for his efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in Afghanistan.

China on Tuesday welcomed US President Donald Trump's move to seek Pakistan's support for his efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in Afghanistan. Trump has written to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Islamabad's "assistance and facilitation in achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war". Commenting on the development, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, "we welcome sound interaction between Pakistan and the US". "Sound and steady development of Pakistan-US relations is conducive to the realisation of the reconstruction of Afghanistan as well as anti-terrorism endeavours," he said. It is also conducive to regional peace and stability. "We are pleased to see the improvement of their bilateral relations (and we) support their mutually beneficial cooperation and to step up communication on this issue," Geng said. In the letter, Trump "stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation." In Washington, a spokesperson of the US National Security Council told PTI that "the president recognises that Pakistan has the ability to deny the Taliban sanctuary on its territory...The letter also makes clear that Pakistan's assistance with the Afghan peace process is fundamental to building an enduring US-Pakistan partnership." Since taking office, Trump has been very critical of Pakistan's lax attitude towards combatting terrorism. Last month, Trump said Pakistan does not do "a damn thing" for the US, alleging that Islamabad had helped al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden hide near its garrison city of Abbottabad. Ties between the US and Pakistan strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists. In September, the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups like the Haqqani Network and the Taliban active on its soil. The Trump administration, in recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the 9/11 terror attacks. The Taliban are fighting to flush out US-led international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.

China welcomes Trump seeking Pakistan's help to end war in Afghanistan

Khadim Rizvi booked on terror charges

Pakistan crackdown on dissent; Two lawmakers barred from leaving Pakistan

Pakistan army curtails free speech; Two lawmakers barred from leaving Pakistan

Home Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-tdp-alliance-is-unholy-rajnath-singh-in-telangana-180599">Rajnath Singh </a>said Pakistan could seek India’s help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone.

Addressing a press conference here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country. “The issue is of terrorism, and Pakistan can discuss it,” Singh said.

“I want to ask the Pakistani prime minister that if in Afghanistan, a fight can be carried out against terror and Taliban with the help of the US, then, Pakistan can seek help against terrorism from India if it feels that it cannot handle it alone,” he said.

He also accused the Congress of creating a crisis of distrust in politics and claimed there was a difference in their words and deeds.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Pakistan could seek India’s help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone. Addressing a press conference here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Pakistan could seek India’s help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone. Addressing a press conference here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country. “The issue is of terrorism, and Pakistan can discuss it,” Singh said. “I want to ask the Pakistani prime minister that if in Afghanistan, a fight can be carried out against terror and Taliban with the help of the US, then, Pakistan can seek help against terrorism from India if it feels that it cannot handle it alone,” he said. He also accused the Congress of creating a crisis of distrust in politics and claimed there was a difference in their words and deeds.

Take help from us if you can’t fight terror alone: Rajnath Singh to Pakistan

Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Saturday demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan, accusing him of lying to the nation and secretly agreeing to the IMF's condition to secure loans that caused the historic devaluation of the country's currency.

Pakistani Rupee suffered a massive hit on Friday as the dollar rose to an all-time high at Rs 144, a day after the government celebrated its 100-day achievements.

Experts believe that the devaluation was linked with the government's talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure loan.

Recently, cash-strapped Pakistan's negotiations with the IMF for a bailout package faced difficulties as the international lender sought complete disclosure of Chinese financial support and hiking of energy prices and levying more taxes.

"Historic devaluation of the rupee (from Rs134 to Rs144 against one US dollar) shows the Imran Khan government has signed the agreement with the IMF without taking anyone onboard," PML-N's central spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said in a statement.

Stating that people of Pakistan have a right to know the conditions of the pact, Aurangzeb said that the sudden devaluation of the Pakistani currency is the proof of the fact that government has agreed to the conditions of the IMF and has signed their agreement.

"The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government has once again lied to the nation about the IMF loan agreement. Finance Minister Asad Umar lied to the people of Pakistan about their dealings with IMF. This sharp increase in dollar's price is another one of the PTI government's massive con-jobs," Aurangzeb, a former information minister in the PMLN government, said.

She said that the devaluation of the rupee will open floodgates of inflation on the already crushed people of Pakistan while PM Khan is not doing anything other than uttering meaningless comfort cliches "Ghabraana Nai Hai".

"Imran Khan should resign because he has betrayed the trust of the people of Pakistan.

The circumstances and mood of the nation is clear that they would not bear this Chicken-Egg Policy government while they are crushed under inflation and taxes, because it has been established that government is severely incapacitated to run the affairs of the state," she said.

Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Saturday demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan, accusing him of lying to the nation and secretly agreeing to the IMF's condition to secure loans that caused the historic devaluation of the country's currency.

Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Saturday demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan, accusing him of lying to the nation and secretly agreeing to the IMF's condition to secure loans that caused the historic devaluation of the country's currency. Pakistani Rupee suffered a massive hit on Friday as the dollar rose to an all-time high at Rs 144, a day after the government celebrated its 100-day achievements. Experts believe that the devaluation was linked with the government's talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure loan. Recently, cash-strapped Pakistan's negotiations with the IMF for a bailout package faced difficulties as the international lender sought complete disclosure of Chinese financial support and hiking of energy prices and levying more taxes. "Historic devaluation of the rupee (from Rs134 to Rs144 against one US dollar) shows the Imran Khan government has signed the agreement with the IMF without taking anyone onboard," PML-N's central spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said in a statement. Stating that people of Pakistan have a right to know the conditions of the pact, Aurangzeb said that the sudden devaluation of the Pakistani currency is the proof of the fact that government has agreed to the conditions of the IMF and has signed their agreement. "The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government has once again lied to the nation about the IMF loan agreement. Finance Minister Asad Umar lied to the people of Pakistan about their dealings with IMF. This sharp increase in dollar's price is another one of the PTI government's massive con-jobs," Aurangzeb, a former information minister in the PMLN government, said. She said that the devaluation of the rupee will open floodgates of inflation on the already crushed people of Pakistan while PM Khan is not doing anything other than uttering meaningless comfort cliches "Ghabraana Nai Hai". "Imran Khan should resign because he has betrayed the trust of the people of Pakistan. The circumstances and mood of the nation is clear that they would not bear this Chicken-Egg Policy government while they are crushed under inflation and taxes, because it has been established that government is severely incapacitated to run the affairs of the state," she said.

Imran Khan should resign for lying, secretly agreeing to IMF's condition: PML-N 

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for a new legislation to effectively deal with offences related to money laundering and other corrupt practices that are negatively impacting the cash-strapped country's economy.

The law, to be finalised within a week's time, would further strengthen existing laws to effectively check hawala, hundi and other illegal and corrupt practices, The Express Tribune reported.

The decision was taken during a high level meeting at Prime Minister's Office on Friday, where the PM further approved package to incentivise remittance through legal channels, the report said.

It was decided during the meeting that the State Bank of Pakistan, being regulatory authority in the banking sector, would take action against elements involved in facilitating the opening and operation of fake bank accounts in the country.

During the meeting, it was decided that the necessary amendments would be introduced in existing laws, including Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Act 2010 to further strengthen them for effectively dealing with cases of money laundering and other illegal practices.

Meanwhile, secretary Interior informed that taskforces, at national as well as provincial levels, have been constituted with an aim to identify legislative and administrative constraints in effective implementation of the AML activities and to suggest corrective measures towards its eradication.

The provincial taskforces have been mandated to take timely action against those involved in activities falling within domains of hawala, hundi while the national taskforce will submit monthly report to the Prime Minister's Office on performance, including coordinated actions undertaken and recoveries made.

Khan has stated on several occasion that corruption money worth billions of rupees was being laundering and promised to take measures to stop it. 
The government is making all-out efforts to prevent stolen money from flowing out of the country.&nbsp;

Cash-strapped Pakistan urgently needs a capital boost in order to avert a looming balance of payments crisis. Foreign reserves held by the central bank dropped below USD 8 billion in late October, raising concerns about Islamabad's ability to finance monthly import bills.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for a new legislation to effectively deal with offences related to money laundering and other corrupt practices that are negatively impacting the cash-strapped country's economy.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for a new legislation to effectively deal with offences related to money laundering and other corrupt practices that are negatively impacting the cash-strapped country's economy. The law, to be finalised within a week's time, would further strengthen existing laws to effectively check hawala, hundi and other illegal and corrupt practices, The Express Tribune reported. The decision was taken during a high level meeting at Prime Minister's Office on Friday, where the PM further approved package to incentivise remittance through legal channels, the report said. It was decided during the meeting that the State Bank of Pakistan, being regulatory authority in the banking sector, would take action against elements involved in facilitating the opening and operation of fake bank accounts in the country. During the meeting, it was decided that the necessary amendments would be introduced in existing laws, including Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Act 2010 to further strengthen them for effectively dealing with cases of money laundering and other illegal practices. Meanwhile, secretary Interior informed that taskforces, at national as well as provincial levels, have been constituted with an aim to identify legislative and administrative constraints in effective implementation of the AML activities and to suggest corrective measures towards its eradication. The provincial taskforces have been mandated to take timely action against those involved in activities falling within domains of hawala, hundi while the national taskforce will submit monthly report to the Prime Minister's Office on performance, including coordinated actions undertaken and recoveries made. Khan has stated on several occasion that corruption money worth billions of rupees was being laundering and promised to take measures to stop it. The government is making all-out efforts to prevent stolen money from flowing out of the country. Cash-strapped Pakistan urgently needs a capital boost in order to avert a looming balance of payments crisis. Foreign reserves held by the central bank dropped below USD 8 billion in late October, raising concerns about Islamabad's ability to finance monthly import bills.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan calls for new law to deal with money laundering

Pakistan's rupee plunged almost five per cent to a record low Friday after what appeared to be a sixth devaluation by the central bank in the past year as the country struggles with an acute balance of payment crisis.

The unit sank to 143 rupees against the dollar just a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government celebrated 100 days in office with a televised conference boasting of its achievements.

The State Bank of Pakistan has indirectly devalued the state-managed unit several times already as it tries to narrow a huge balance of payments deficit.

But traders are growing concerned that neither Khan nor his Finance Minister Asad Umar laid out a comprehensive plan to address the country’s economic woes more than a week after negotiations with the International Monetary Fund ended without a much-needed bailout agreement.

The former cricketer has launched a highly publicised austerity drive since being sworn in, including auctioning off government-owned luxury vehicles and buffaloes, in addition to seeking loans from "friendly countries" and making overtures to the IMF.

"The market was disappointed to see that there was no clear cut direction of the government regarding raising loans from IMF or taxation policies for the rest of its term," said Hamad Iqbal, director of research at Elixir Securities.

The rupee has lost about a third of its value since the start of the year as Pakistan struggles with chronic inflation as it burns through its dwindling foreign currency reserves, which are down around 40 per cent this year.

Pakistan 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.

Despite the pledges, the ministry of finance said Pakistan would still seek broader IMF support for the government's long-term economic planning.

With talks with the IMF still ongoing -- Pakistan has been a regular borrower from the IMF since the 1980s -- Khan's new government has been searching for ways to rally its struggling economy.

Islamabad has received billions of dollars in Chinese loans to finance ambitious infrastructure projects, but the US -- one of the IMF's biggest donors -- has raised fears that Pakistan could use any bailout money to repay its debts to Beijing.&nbsp;

The IMF and World Bank forecasts suggest the Pakistani economy is likely to grow by four to 4.5 per cent for the year fiscal year ending June 2019 compared to 5.8 per cent growth in the last fiscal year. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's rupee plunged almost five per cent to a record low Friday after what appeared to be a sixth devaluation by the central bank in the past year as the country struggles with an acute balance of payment crisis.

Pakistan's rupee plunged almost five per cent to a record low Friday after what appeared to be a sixth devaluation by the central bank in the past year as the country struggles with an acute balance of payment crisis. The unit sank to 143 rupees against the dollar just a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government celebrated 100 days in office with a televised conference boasting of its achievements. The State Bank of Pakistan has indirectly devalued the state-managed unit several times already as it tries to narrow a huge balance of payments deficit. But traders are growing concerned that neither Khan nor his Finance Minister Asad Umar laid out a comprehensive plan to address the country’s economic woes more than a week after negotiations with the International Monetary Fund ended without a much-needed bailout agreement. The former cricketer has launched a highly publicised austerity drive since being sworn in, including auctioning off government-owned luxury vehicles and buffaloes, in addition to seeking loans from "friendly countries" and making overtures to the IMF. "The market was disappointed to see that there was no clear cut direction of the government regarding raising loans from IMF or taxation policies for the rest of its term," said Hamad Iqbal, director of research at Elixir Securities. The rupee has lost about a third of its value since the start of the year as Pakistan struggles with chronic inflation as it burns through its dwindling foreign currency reserves, which are down around 40 per cent this year. Pakistan 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. Despite the pledges, the ministry of finance said Pakistan would still seek broader IMF support for the government's long-term economic planning. With talks with the IMF still ongoing -- Pakistan has been a regular borrower from the IMF since the 1980s -- Khan's new government has been searching for ways to rally its struggling economy. Islamabad has received billions of dollars in Chinese loans to finance ambitious infrastructure projects, but the US -- one of the IMF's biggest donors -- has raised fears that Pakistan could use any bailout money to repay its debts to Beijing. The IMF and World Bank forecasts suggest the Pakistani economy is likely to grow by four to 4.5 per cent for the year fiscal year ending June 2019 compared to 5.8 per cent growth in the last fiscal year.

Pakistan rupee hits record low, no news on IMF lifeline

The United States said on Friday that it welcomes efforts by India and Pakistan to increase people-to-people contact, days after the two neighbouring countries laid foundation stones for a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/all-you-need-to-know-about-kartarpur-corridor-project-180005">corridor linking two revered gurdwaras</a> on both sides of the border.&nbsp;

"I'm aware of reports on this Kartarpur corridor. I understand that it's kind of a visa-free way for Indians to visit this important Sikh site. And of course, the United States would welcome efforts to increase people-to-people ties between India and Pakistan,"&nbsp;State Department deputy spokesman Robert Palladino told reporters.

Palladino was responding to questions on the construction of the much-awaited corridor that will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur"&nbsp;the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev&nbsp;with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of pilgrims.

The Kartarpur corridor, which India had proposed to Pakistan around 20 years ago, is expected to be completed within six months.

Thousands of Sikh devotees from India visit Pakistan every year to celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.&nbsp;

Replying to another question on President Donald Trump's tweets on stopping aid to Pakistan at a time when the US is seeking its cooperation on Afghanistan, the State Department Spokesperson stressed the need for Islamabad to build confidence in bilateral relations.

"The Secretary (of State) has emphasized the need for Pakistan to deliver outcome and build confidence and trust between our two countries, and our policy towards Pakistan is clear,"&nbsp;Palladino said.

The United States said on Friday that it welcomes efforts by India and Pakistan to increase people-to-people contact, days after the two neighbouring countries laid foundation stones for a corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border.

The United States said on Friday that it welcomes efforts by India and Pakistan to increase people-to-people contact, days after the two neighbouring countries laid foundation stones for a corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border. "I'm aware of reports on this Kartarpur corridor. I understand that it's kind of a visa-free way for Indians to visit this important Sikh site. And of course, the United States would welcome efforts to increase people-to-people ties between India and Pakistan," State Department deputy spokesman Robert Palladino told reporters. Palladino was responding to questions on the construction of the much-awaited corridor that will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur" the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of pilgrims. The Kartarpur corridor, which India had proposed to Pakistan around 20 years ago, is expected to be completed within six months. Thousands of Sikh devotees from India visit Pakistan every year to celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. Replying to another question on President Donald Trump's tweets on stopping aid to Pakistan at a time when the US is seeking its cooperation on Afghanistan, the State Department Spokesperson stressed the need for Islamabad to build confidence in bilateral relations. "The Secretary (of State) has emphasized the need for Pakistan to deliver outcome and build confidence and trust between our two countries, and our policy towards Pakistan is clear," Palladino said.

US welcomes efforts by India, Pakistan to increase people-to-people contact

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