Pakistan Cabinet minister Noor-Ul-Haq Qadri "should have been more sensitive" while sharing the dais with 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, the country's foreign minister has said, acknowledging the mistake committed by his ministerial colleague this week.

"I will go home and certainly ask him why he did that. But what I am told it was an event to highlight the situation in Kashmir," Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told a Washington audience on Wednesday when asked about Cabinet minister for religious affairs Qadri sharing a dais with Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Saeed at a meeting in Islamabad.

"It had nothing to do with Lashkar-e-Taiba. There were other political elements there. He happened to be one of them," Qureshi added.

"I think he (Qadri) should've been more sensitive, but it wasn't that he subscribes to his (Saeed's) point of view," the visiting Pakistani foreign minister said.

"Please explain why earlier this week on Monday, your government's federal minister of religious affairs appeared side by side at a public conference with the head of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a terrorist organisation banned by Pakistan?" Qureshi was asked by a member in the audience at the US Institute of Peace, a US Congress-funded think tank.

Qadri was seen seated near Saeed as he addressed an All Parties Conference organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council on Sunday in Islamabad.

A banner in the background said the conference was in "defence of Pakistan", and mentioned "Kashmir" as well as "threats from India". The Difa-e-Pakistan Council is a coalition of over 40 Pakistani political and religious parties that advocate conservative policies.

Qadri's presence at the event with Saeed vindicated India's stand that there is no change in Pakistan's attitude towards terrorism after Prime Minister Imran Khan assumed office in August.

Qureshi asserted that Pakistan is serious in the fight against terrorism. "We cannot surrender to terrorism. We will have to take them on and we will have to clear areas. We have successfully done that. Well it's a work in progress, we would have to continue to build on what you've achieved, but to a large extent, things have changed," he said, adding that this shift is not being recognised enough in the US.

"Cutting off training, not giving precision equipment that could've been used against terrorism, I don't know to what extent that'll help. In my view it will not help collectively," he said.

"Collectively we can achieve our shared objective. A blame game will not be productive," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cabinet minister Noor-Ul-Haq Qadri "should have been more sensitive" while sharing the dais with 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, the country's foreign minister has said, acknowledging the mistake committed by his ministerial colleague this week.

Pakistan Cabinet minister Noor-Ul-Haq Qadri "should have been more sensitive" while sharing the dais with 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, the country's foreign minister has said, acknowledging the mistake committed by his ministerial colleague this week. "I will go home and certainly ask him why he did that. But what I am told it was an event to highlight the situation in Kashmir," Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told a Washington audience on Wednesday when asked about Cabinet minister for religious affairs Qadri sharing a dais with Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Saeed at a meeting in Islamabad. "It had nothing to do with Lashkar-e-Taiba. There were other political elements there. He happened to be one of them," Qureshi added. "I think he (Qadri) should've been more sensitive, but it wasn't that he subscribes to his (Saeed's) point of view," the visiting Pakistani foreign minister said. "Please explain why earlier this week on Monday, your government's federal minister of religious affairs appeared side by side at a public conference with the head of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a terrorist organisation banned by Pakistan?" Qureshi was asked by a member in the audience at the US Institute of Peace, a US Congress-funded think tank. Qadri was seen seated near Saeed as he addressed an All Parties Conference organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council on Sunday in Islamabad. A banner in the background said the conference was in "defence of Pakistan", and mentioned "Kashmir" as well as "threats from India". The Difa-e-Pakistan Council is a coalition of over 40 Pakistani political and religious parties that advocate conservative policies. Qadri's presence at the event with Saeed vindicated India's stand that there is no change in Pakistan's attitude towards terrorism after Prime Minister Imran Khan assumed office in August. Qureshi asserted that Pakistan is serious in the fight against terrorism. "We cannot surrender to terrorism. We will have to take them on and we will have to clear areas. We have successfully done that. Well it's a work in progress, we would have to continue to build on what you've achieved, but to a large extent, things have changed," he said, adding that this shift is not being recognised enough in the US. "Cutting off training, not giving precision equipment that could've been used against terrorism, I don't know to what extent that'll help. In my view it will not help collectively," he said. "Collectively we can achieve our shared objective. A blame game will not be productive," he said.

Pak minister should have been more sensitive in sharing dais with Hafiz Saeed: Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Saudi Arabia's Aramco has agreed in principle to invest in a new oil refinery in Pakistan's Chinese-funded, deepwater port of Gwadar, the Pakistani petroleum minister said on Thursday.

But a Saudi delegation visit ended with no economic lifeline for the South Asian nation's looming foreign currency crisis.

Petroleum Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan said talks had not sought deferred oil payments, contradicting an earlier statement by the finance minister.

Pakistan may need to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for its second bailout in five years, though the government of new Prime Minister Imran Khan is seeking alternatives.

In the Gwadar refinery agreement, state-owned Pakistan State Oil will partner with Aramco, the Saudi state oil giant, Petroleum Minister Khan said.

Details of the refinery's costs and capacity are to be finalised after a Memorandum of Understanding approved by Pakistan's cabinet on Thursday is finalised, he added.

Gwadar, in the southwestern province of Baluchistan, is the crown jewel of China's $60 billion investment in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Pakistan.

Last month, Pakistan invited Saudi Arabia to invest in projects related to BRI's China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The visiting Saudi delegation, led by energy adviser Ahmad Hamed Al-Ghamdi, visited Gwadar on Tuesday. "They showed an interest to immediately invest in the refinery," said Khan, the petroleum minister.

"We sat down and held initial discussions with them and it was principally decided by both sides that it will be a government-to-government agreement."

Any refinery deal needs support from the Baluchistan provincial government, and there has been concern that neighbouring Iran might object to a project involving arch-rival Saudi Arabia on its doorstep.

However, on Thursday, Iranian Ambassador Mehdi Honer Doost raised no objections. "Iran will welcome Saudi and other Muslim countries investment in Baluchistan," Doost told reporters.

Pakistan wants a new refinery to reduce its $16 billion bill for foreign petroleum by importing more cheaper crude oil to refine itself.

Rising oil prices have sent Pakistan's current account deficit soaring. Foreign reserves have dropped to $9 billion, barely enough to cover external debt payments through the end of the year.

Still, the petroleum minister on Thursday denied Pakistan had sought any emergency aid from oil-rich Saudi Arabia. "There was an impression (that) we went there to ask for aid or seek alms but we only talked about investments," Khan told reporters.

He spoke two days after Finance Minister Asad Umar told local Samaa TV that deferred oil payments had been discussed with the Saudi delegation but no decision had been made.

Saudi Arabia's Aramco has agreed in principle to invest in a new oil refinery in Pakistan's Chinese-funded, deepwater port of Gwadar, the Pakistani petroleum minister said on Thursday.

Saudi Arabia's Aramco has agreed in principle to invest in a new oil refinery in Pakistan's Chinese-funded, deepwater port of Gwadar, the Pakistani petroleum minister said on Thursday. But a Saudi delegation visit ended with no economic lifeline for the South Asian nation's looming foreign currency crisis. Petroleum Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan said talks had not sought deferred oil payments, contradicting an earlier statement by the finance minister. Pakistan may need to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for its second bailout in five years, though the government of new Prime Minister Imran Khan is seeking alternatives. In the Gwadar refinery agreement, state-owned Pakistan State Oil will partner with Aramco, the Saudi state oil giant, Petroleum Minister Khan said. Details of the refinery's costs and capacity are to be finalised after a Memorandum of Understanding approved by Pakistan's cabinet on Thursday is finalised, he added. Gwadar, in the southwestern province of Baluchistan, is the crown jewel of China's $60 billion investment in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Pakistan. Last month, Pakistan invited Saudi Arabia to invest in projects related to BRI's China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The visiting Saudi delegation, led by energy adviser Ahmad Hamed Al-Ghamdi, visited Gwadar on Tuesday. "They showed an interest to immediately invest in the refinery," said Khan, the petroleum minister. "We sat down and held initial discussions with them and it was principally decided by both sides that it will be a government-to-government agreement." Any refinery deal needs support from the Baluchistan provincial government, and there has been concern that neighbouring Iran might object to a project involving arch-rival Saudi Arabia on its doorstep. However, on Thursday, Iranian Ambassador Mehdi Honer Doost raised no objections. "Iran will welcome Saudi and other Muslim countries investment in Baluchistan," Doost told reporters. Pakistan wants a new refinery to reduce its $16 billion bill for foreign petroleum by importing more cheaper crude oil to refine itself. Rising oil prices have sent Pakistan's current account deficit soaring. Foreign reserves have dropped to $9 billion, barely enough to cover external debt payments through the end of the year. Still, the petroleum minister on Thursday denied Pakistan had sought any emergency aid from oil-rich Saudi Arabia. "There was an impression (that) we went there to ask for aid or seek alms but we only talked about investments," Khan told reporters. He spoke two days after Finance Minister Asad Umar told local Samaa TV that deferred oil payments had been discussed with the Saudi delegation but no decision had been made.

Saudi Arabia agrees to invest in new oil refinery in Pakistan's Gwadar

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bolton-calls-united-nation-world-court-politicized-us-limit-exposure-169280">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bolton-calls-united-nation-world-court-politicized-us-limit-exposure-169280"> says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bolton-calls-united-nation-world-court-politicized-us-limit-exposure-169280">International</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bolton-calls-united-nation-world-court-politicized-us-limit-exposure-169280"> Court of Justice is 'politicised and ineffective'</a>

The United States is taking steps to avoid exposure to binding decisions by the International Court of Justice, the US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday as he accused the UN court of being "politicised and ineffective."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/putin-arrive-india-today-all-eyes-s-400-defence-system-deal-169293">Putin to arrive in India today, all eyes on S-400 defence system deal</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Putin will hold the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit on Friday, but all eyes will be on the S-400 Triumf defence system deal the two countries are expected to sign during Putin's visit.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-price-rises-rs-9134litre-mumbai-rs-84litre-delhi-169288">Petrol prices up again, selling at Rs 91.34 a litre in Mumbai</a>

Fuel prices continued to rise across the country on October 4. The price of petrol in Mumbai increased by 0.14 paise to Rs 91.34 per litre, while that of diesel rose by 0.21 paise to Rs 80.10 per litre.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-accuses-russia-global-cyber-attacks-campaign-169286">UK</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-accuses-russia-global-cyber-attacks-campaign-169286"> accuses Russia of global cyber attacks campaign</a>

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Thursday accused Russian military intelligence of conducting a campaign of "indiscriminate and reckless" online attacks targeting political institutions, businesses, media and sport bodies around the world.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-urges-us-resume-aid-backs-taliban-outreach-169290">Pakistan urges </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-urges-us-resume-aid-backs-taliban-outreach-169290">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-urges-us-resume-aid-backs-taliban-outreach-169290"> to resume military aid</a>

Pakistan pledged Wednesday to support negotiations with the Taliban to end Afghanistan's 17-year war as it asked the United States to restore military aid and stop blaming Islamabad for the extremists' strengths.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US says International Court of Justice is 'politicised and ineffective' The United States is taking steps to avoid exposure to binding decisions by the International Court of Justice, the US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday as he accused the UN court of being "politicised and ineffective.

US says International Court of Justice is 'politicised and ineffective' The United States is taking steps to avoid exposure to binding decisions by the International Court of Justice, the US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday as he accused the UN court of being "politicised and ineffective." Putin to arrive in India today, all eyes on S-400 defence system deal Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Putin will hold the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit on Friday, but all eyes will be on the S-400 Triumf defence system deal the two countries are expected to sign during Putin's visit. Petrol prices up again, selling at Rs 91.34 a litre in Mumbai Fuel prices continued to rise across the country on October 4. The price of petrol in Mumbai increased by 0.14 paise to Rs 91.34 per litre, while that of diesel rose by 0.21 paise to Rs 80.10 per litre. UK accuses Russia of global cyber attacks campaign British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Thursday accused Russian military intelligence of conducting a campaign of "indiscriminate and reckless" online attacks targeting political institutions, businesses, media and sport bodies around the world. Pakistan urges US to resume military aid Pakistan pledged Wednesday to support negotiations with the Taliban to end Afghanistan's 17-year war as it asked the United States to restore military aid and stop blaming Islamabad for the extremists' strengths.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan pledged Wednesday to support negotiations with the Taliban to end Afghanistan's 17-year war as it asked the United States to restore military aid and stop blaming Islamabad for the extremists' strengths.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi visited Washington to explain the Afghanistan strategy of new Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has long advocated talks over military action with the Taliban and other Islamist insurgents.

A month after Washington cut $300 million in military aid, Qureshi said he found Secretary of State Mike Pompeo "ready to listen" to Pakistan and said he was returning to Islamabad "slightly more hopeful" than before.

Pakistan had been the main supporter of the Taliban regime which imposed an austere brand of Islam on much of Afghanistan until a US military campaign launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The United States has pressed for years for Pakistan to crack down on militant groups involved in Afghanistan as well as virulently anti-Indian groups that operate virtually openly.

It says the insurgents have safe havens in Pakistan's border areas and links to its shadowy military establishment, accusations which Islamabad has repeatedly denied.

Trump has accused Pakistan, where US commandos killed Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, of duplicity.

Qureshi said Pakistan would act "in good faith" to jumpstart diplomacy with the Taliban, whose representatives held a breakthrough meeting in July in Qatar with US representatives in a tentative bid to try to end the longest-running US war.

"Pakistan is willing and Pakistan will use all its influence to do that. We feel that Afghanistan's stability and peace are linked to ours," Qureshi said at the US Institute of Peace a day after meeting Pompeo.

But he added: "Contrary to the largely held view here, our influence on the Taliban is diminished."

He said he believed that the Taliban's shift to negotiations, as well as an unprecedented if temporary ceasefire, was based on the militants' own calculations.

"Even the Taliban recognize that things have changed in Afghanistan. They can at best maintain a stalemate but those days are gone when they will just go in and take over Kabul."

Defending Pakistan role

Qureshi said Pakistan "cannot and should not be held responsible for the failures in Afghanistan" as he pointed to disunity in the Kabul government as well as corruption.

"I have seen or read a lot of criticism and think it's unfair not to recognize the contributions Pakistan has made to the successes that you've had in Afghanistan -- and you've had successes despite the challenges," he said.

Calling for renewed cooperation with the United States, Qureshi said: "Cutting off training, not giving precision equipment that could have been used against terrorism -- I don't know to what extent that will help."

'Momentum' for negotiations

Trump had called for years for a withdrawal from Afghanistan, questioning what more can be achieved from a war that has claimed about 2,400 US lives, but the real estate mogul turned politician decided to stay the course after advice from security officials.

Pompeo, who met Khan in Islamabad last month, told Qureshi that Pakistan has an "important role" to play in Afghanistan negotiations, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said.

Pompeo "agreed that there was momentum to advance the Afghan peace process, and that the Afghan Taliban should seize the opportunity for dialogue," Nauert said.

The State Department notably did not say whether Pompeo addressed Pakistan's position on extremism.

In August, Pompeo congratulated Khan in a telephone call when he took office as prime minister. The State Department said he asked Islamabad to "take decisive action against all terrorists operating in Pakistan."

Pakistan insisted that the issue never came up.

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Pakistan pledged Wednesday to support negotiations with the Taliban to end Afghanistan's 17-year war as it asked the United States to restore military aid and stop blaming Islamabad for the extremists' strengths.

Pakistan pledged Wednesday to support negotiations with the Taliban to end Afghanistan's 17-year war as it asked the United States to restore military aid and stop blaming Islamabad for the extremists' strengths. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi visited Washington to explain the Afghanistan strategy of new Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has long advocated talks over military action with the Taliban and other Islamist insurgents. A month after Washington cut $300 million in military aid, Qureshi said he found Secretary of State Mike Pompeo "ready to listen" to Pakistan and said he was returning to Islamabad "slightly more hopeful" than before. Pakistan had been the main supporter of the Taliban regime which imposed an austere brand of Islam on much of Afghanistan until a US military campaign launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The United States has pressed for years for Pakistan to crack down on militant groups involved in Afghanistan as well as virulently anti-Indian groups that operate virtually openly. It says the insurgents have safe havens in Pakistan's border areas and links to its shadowy military establishment, accusations which Islamabad has repeatedly denied. Trump has accused Pakistan, where US commandos killed Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, of duplicity. Qureshi said Pakistan would act "in good faith" to jumpstart diplomacy with the Taliban, whose representatives held a breakthrough meeting in July in Qatar with US representatives in a tentative bid to try to end the longest-running US war. "Pakistan is willing and Pakistan will use all its influence to do that. We feel that Afghanistan's stability and peace are linked to ours," Qureshi said at the US Institute of Peace a day after meeting Pompeo. But he added: "Contrary to the largely held view here, our influence on the Taliban is diminished." He said he believed that the Taliban's shift to negotiations, as well as an unprecedented if temporary ceasefire, was based on the militants' own calculations. "Even the Taliban recognize that things have changed in Afghanistan. They can at best maintain a stalemate but those days are gone when they will just go in and take over Kabul." Defending Pakistan role Qureshi said Pakistan "cannot and should not be held responsible for the failures in Afghanistan" as he pointed to disunity in the Kabul government as well as corruption. "I have seen or read a lot of criticism and think it's unfair not to recognize the contributions Pakistan has made to the successes that you've had in Afghanistan -- and you've had successes despite the challenges," he said. Calling for renewed cooperation with the United States, Qureshi said: "Cutting off training, not giving precision equipment that could have been used against terrorism -- I don't know to what extent that will help." 'Momentum' for negotiations Trump had called for years for a withdrawal from Afghanistan, questioning what more can be achieved from a war that has claimed about 2,400 US lives, but the real estate mogul turned politician decided to stay the course after advice from security officials. Pompeo, who met Khan in Islamabad last month, told Qureshi that Pakistan has an "important role" to play in Afghanistan negotiations, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said. Pompeo "agreed that there was momentum to advance the Afghan peace process, and that the Afghan Taliban should seize the opportunity for dialogue," Nauert said. The State Department notably did not say whether Pompeo addressed Pakistan's position on extremism. In August, Pompeo congratulated Khan in a telephone call when he took office as prime minister. The State Department said he asked Islamabad to "take decisive action against all terrorists operating in Pakistan." Pakistan insisted that the issue never came up. ×

Pakistan urges US to resume military aid

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to make his first official visit to China next month, his foreign minister&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi said.

Khan's visit to China has come amid reports hinting that the new government has a growing uneasiness with the ambitious China project.

A recent report had stated that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-likely-to-review-cpec-deals-165016">Pak government was trying the review the agreements</a> made under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. It further added that Khan had also formed a nine-member committee to analyse the project.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said in an interview in Washington that the US $50 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a game changer for Pakistan and has taken off.

Pakistan, he said, wants an early completing of these projects and is in talks with the Chinese on how to focus on areas that are important to the new government.

"Hopefully next month in November the prime minister would be making his first official visit to China to discuss this further," Qureshi told a Washington audience when he was asked about reports of changes in the ambitious CPEC projects.

"Obviously infrastructure is required. We need roads and rail links, optic fibers and everything of that sort. We want them to help us in areas like industrial development, enhancing agriculture productivity, helping us alleviate poverty in the country," he said to a question at the US Institute of Peace.

Qureshi said the Khan government is talking about how to improve lives and livelihoods, how labour-intensive industry can be relocated into Pakistan and give jobs.

"So that is an ongoing discussion and hopefully next month in November, the prime minister would be taking his first official visit to China to discuss this further," the top Pakistani diplomat said.

When asked about increasing relationship between Pakistan and China, Qureshi said this is not at the cost of the ties with the US.&nbsp;

"US was, is and will remain an important global player. You are a technological, economic and military power. We recognise that. There's a history of our relationship. Let's not forget that," he said.

Noting that currently there are challenges in the US- Chinese relationship, Qureshi argued that Beijing can play an important constructive role with regard to Afghanistan and peace in the region.

"I am of the view and Pakistan is of the view that China can play a constructive role and China must be engaged. China has initiated a trilateral meeting.

&nbsp;They had one in Beijing and next month in December we might have the second round in Kabul," he said.

Pakistan is currently reeling from a huge financial crisis. The new government is planning to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for its 13th bailout in the last three decades, as the Pakistani rupee continues to weaken further in a volatile global financial market.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to make his first official visit to China next month, his foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said. Khan's visit to China has come amid reports hinting that the new government has a growing uneasiness with the ambitious China project.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to make his first official visit to China next month, his foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said. Khan's visit to China has come amid reports hinting that the new government has a growing uneasiness with the ambitious China project. A recent report had stated that the Pak government was trying the review the agreements made under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. It further added that Khan had also formed a nine-member committee to analyse the project. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said in an interview in Washington that the US $50 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a game changer for Pakistan and has taken off. Pakistan, he said, wants an early completing of these projects and is in talks with the Chinese on how to focus on areas that are important to the new government. "Hopefully next month in November the prime minister would be making his first official visit to China to discuss this further," Qureshi told a Washington audience when he was asked about reports of changes in the ambitious CPEC projects. "Obviously infrastructure is required. We need roads and rail links, optic fibers and everything of that sort. We want them to help us in areas like industrial development, enhancing agriculture productivity, helping us alleviate poverty in the country," he said to a question at the US Institute of Peace. Qureshi said the Khan government is talking about how to improve lives and livelihoods, how labour-intensive industry can be relocated into Pakistan and give jobs. "So that is an ongoing discussion and hopefully next month in November, the prime minister would be taking his first official visit to China to discuss this further," the top Pakistani diplomat said. When asked about increasing relationship between Pakistan and China, Qureshi said this is not at the cost of the ties with the US. "US was, is and will remain an important global player. You are a technological, economic and military power. We recognise that. There's a history of our relationship. Let's not forget that," he said. Noting that currently there are challenges in the US- Chinese relationship, Qureshi argued that Beijing can play an important constructive role with regard to Afghanistan and peace in the region. "I am of the view and Pakistan is of the view that China can play a constructive role and China must be engaged. China has initiated a trilateral meeting. They had one in Beijing and next month in December we might have the second round in Kabul," he said. Pakistan is currently reeling from a huge financial crisis. The new government is planning to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for its 13th bailout in the last three decades, as the Pakistani rupee continues to weaken further in a volatile global financial market. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to visit China in November

Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharraf's failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the "courageous commando" does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner.

Chief Justice Nisar made the remarks when Musharraf's lawyer told the three-judge bench that his client "respects the court" but was unable to return due to his medical condition and reservations over the provision of security, Dawn newspaper reported.

Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007. The former military ruler left for Dubai in March 2016 for medical treatment and has not returned since.

His lawyer told the court that there were no charges against the former president in the Lal Masjid operation case and demanded to know what the case against his client was, the paper reported.

He may not face any charges in the Lal Masjid case, but he is facing a treason case for which he must appear in court, replied Chief Justice Nisar.

If Musharraf returns voluntarily, he may be able to do so respectably otherwise he may be compelled to return under circumstances which are not "graceful", the top judge warned.

"The commando who used to describe himself as a 'courageous commando' should today display that courage," the top judge was quoted as saying by the paper.

"Why is the courageous commando not returning?" he asked.

"I told you before that if he returns, he will be provided security," the top judge said. He also advised that the former dictator should get medical treatment in Pakistan, the paper said.

"I am giving you this assurance. It is the assurance of the highest court in the country," Chief Justice Nisar said and added that: "As long as (Musharraf) is alive, it is his duty to appear before the court."

He further said that it was not acceptable for a citizen to leave the country and not return while a case against them is underway in courts.

The chief justice also promised that the former military ruler would not be arrested upon his return, and that whatever the outcome of the cases, it would be strictly in line with the law.

The court ordered Musharraf's lawyer to submit his medical report within a week and adjourned the hearing until October 11.

Last week, Muhammad Amjad, a leader of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) - a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 -- had said that the former president was "growing weaker rapidly" due to an unspecified illness and, therefore, could not return to Pakistan.

The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case.

Last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court assured Musharraf that high-level security will be provided to him if he returns to the country to face the trial in the treason case.

The former president was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for suspending the Constitution and imposing emergency which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

A conviction for high-profile treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, has been declared a fugitive in the Benazir Bhutto murder case and Red Mosque cleric killing case.

Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharraf's failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the "courageous commando" does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner.

Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharraf's failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the "courageous commando" does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner. Chief Justice Nisar made the remarks when Musharraf's lawyer told the three-judge bench that his client "respects the court" but was unable to return due to his medical condition and reservations over the provision of security, Dawn newspaper reported. Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007. The former military ruler left for Dubai in March 2016 for medical treatment and has not returned since. His lawyer told the court that there were no charges against the former president in the Lal Masjid operation case and demanded to know what the case against his client was, the paper reported. He may not face any charges in the Lal Masjid case, but he is facing a treason case for which he must appear in court, replied Chief Justice Nisar. If Musharraf returns voluntarily, he may be able to do so respectably otherwise he may be compelled to return under circumstances which are not "graceful", the top judge warned. "The commando who used to describe himself as a 'courageous commando' should today display that courage," the top judge was quoted as saying by the paper. "Why is the courageous commando not returning?" he asked. "I told you before that if he returns, he will be provided security," the top judge said. He also advised that the former dictator should get medical treatment in Pakistan, the paper said. "I am giving you this assurance. It is the assurance of the highest court in the country," Chief Justice Nisar said and added that: "As long as (Musharraf) is alive, it is his duty to appear before the court." He further said that it was not acceptable for a citizen to leave the country and not return while a case against them is underway in courts. The chief justice also promised that the former military ruler would not be arrested upon his return, and that whatever the outcome of the cases, it would be strictly in line with the law. The court ordered Musharraf's lawyer to submit his medical report within a week and adjourned the hearing until October 11. Last week, Muhammad Amjad, a leader of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) - a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 -- had said that the former president was "growing weaker rapidly" due to an unspecified illness and, therefore, could not return to Pakistan. The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case. Last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court assured Musharraf that high-level security will be provided to him if he returns to the country to face the trial in the treason case. The former president was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for suspending the Constitution and imposing emergency which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. A conviction for high-profile treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, has been declared a fugitive in the Benazir Bhutto murder case and Red Mosque cleric killing case.

If Musharraf fails to appear soon, he may be forced to return in disgraceful manner, warns Pak CJ

Pakistan has slashed China's investment in its railways by as much as US $2 billion citing a massive burden of loans. By doing so, Islamabad has given credence to reports that the new government led by Imran Khan may scrutinise the multi-billion dollar corridor it calls 'CPEC' or 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor'.

Pakistan's railways minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said that the share of the 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor' in the country's railways has been reduced from US $8.2 billion to US $6.2 billion.

"Pakistan is a poor country that cannot afford huge burden of the loans," Rasheed told reporters in Lahore.

"Therefore, we have reduced the loan from China under the CPEC for rail projects from US 48.2 billion to US 46.2 billion. The CPEC is like the backbone for Pakistan, but our eyes and ears are open," he said about the corridor that passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir or PoK.

The announcement gives credence to reports that the new government led by Imran Khan intends to scrutinise the US US $62 billion infrastructure and power projects, which the previous Nawaz Sharif-led government had initiated under the 'CPEC'.

Pakistani newspaper Express Tribune reported that investment under 'CPEC' for Pakistan Railways was US $8.2 billion, which was to be utilised for upgrading Main Line-1 (ML-1) a colonial-era line stretching 1,872 km from Karachi to Peshawar.

The previous railways minister Saad Rafique had termed the upgrading of ML-1 as vital for railways future as it would bring as many as 171 trains on track per day against the current 32.

Rasheed, who currently heads the ministry, said that the government remains committed to the Karachi-Peshawar project but he would like to further reduce the cost to US $4.2 billion from US $6.2 billion, if possible.

Rasheed said he is the biggest supporter of the 'CPEC', but also wants minimum debt burden on railways as the nation has to pay back all the investments.

He, however, was unable to explain, which projects the management has skipped to bring down the investment.

The changes are part of Islamabad's efforts to rethink the key Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Pakistan, where Beijing has pledged about $62 billion in financing, but the new government is more cautious about the Chinese investment.

The Pakistani government has pushed for deeply concessional loans for the ML-1 project. It has also invited third countries to join or for the Chinese to be investors in the project through the build-operate-transfer model that would rely less on debt.

The US has criticised projects under Xi Jinping's 'Belt and Road Initiative', warning that Chinese loans could turn into debt traps for poor countries unable to pay them back. Beijing denies these claims, saying the loans are a win-win situation for both the countries. However, such loans have backfired for other countries, most recent of which is the Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka.

The so-called 'CPEC' is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative, a pet project of Chinese President Xi Jinping, aimed at enhancing Beijing's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects.

India has protested to China over the so-called 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor', which is being built through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which is part of India's northernmost state Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan has slashed China's investment in its railways by as much as US $2 billion citing a massive burden of loans. By doing so, Islamabad has given credence to reports that the new government led by Imran Khan may scrutinise the multi-billion dollar corridor it calls 'CPEC' or 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor'.

Pakistan has slashed China's investment in its railways by as much as US $2 billion citing a massive burden of loans. By doing so, Islamabad has given credence to reports that the new government led by Imran Khan may scrutinise the multi-billion dollar corridor it calls 'CPEC' or 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor'. Pakistan's railways minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said that the share of the 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor' in the country's railways has been reduced from US $8.2 billion to US $6.2 billion. "Pakistan is a poor country that cannot afford huge burden of the loans," Rasheed told reporters in Lahore. "Therefore, we have reduced the loan from China under the CPEC for rail projects from US 48.2 billion to US 46.2 billion. The CPEC is like the backbone for Pakistan, but our eyes and ears are open," he said about the corridor that passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir or PoK. The announcement gives credence to reports that the new government led by Imran Khan intends to scrutinise the US US $62 billion infrastructure and power projects, which the previous Nawaz Sharif-led government had initiated under the 'CPEC'. Pakistani newspaper Express Tribune reported that investment under 'CPEC' for Pakistan Railways was US $8.2 billion, which was to be utilised for upgrading Main Line-1 (ML-1) a colonial-era line stretching 1,872 km from Karachi to Peshawar. The previous railways minister Saad Rafique had termed the upgrading of ML-1 as vital for railways future as it would bring as many as 171 trains on track per day against the current 32. Rasheed, who currently heads the ministry, said that the government remains committed to the Karachi-Peshawar project but he would like to further reduce the cost to US $4.2 billion from US $6.2 billion, if possible. Rasheed said he is the biggest supporter of the 'CPEC', but also wants minimum debt burden on railways as the nation has to pay back all the investments. He, however, was unable to explain, which projects the management has skipped to bring down the investment. The changes are part of Islamabad's efforts to rethink the key Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Pakistan, where Beijing has pledged about $62 billion in financing, but the new government is more cautious about the Chinese investment. The Pakistani government has pushed for deeply concessional loans for the ML-1 project. It has also invited third countries to join or for the Chinese to be investors in the project through the build-operate-transfer model that would rely less on debt. The US has criticised projects under Xi Jinping's 'Belt and Road Initiative', warning that Chinese loans could turn into debt traps for poor countries unable to pay them back. Beijing denies these claims, saying the loans are a win-win situation for both the countries. However, such loans have backfired for other countries, most recent of which is the Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka. The so-called 'CPEC' is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative, a pet project of Chinese President Xi Jinping, aimed at enhancing Beijing's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. India has protested to China over the so-called 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor', which is being built through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which is part of India's northernmost state Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan cuts Chinese investment in key railway project

Prime Minister Imran Khan should be the first to pay a penalty to get his posh Bani Gala property here regularised, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Saqib Nisar said on Monday.&nbsp;

A three-member bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Nisar heard a case regarding encroachments in Bani Gala, a residential area located in Islamabad at the eastern bank of Rawal Lake.

The cricketer-turned-politician had sought the court's attention towards the large-scale encroachment, unchecked and unplanned construction in Bani Gala, massive denuding due to massive tree felling and pollution of the Rawal Lake due to sewage.

The apex court observed that it is the job of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led (PTI) government of Khan to regularise all properties located in the Bani Gala area, including his private residence, Dawn newspaper reported.

Recalling that it was Khan himself who had approached the apex court with an application regarding illegal constructions in Bani Gala, Chief Justice Nisar said the prime minister would have to initiate the process of regularisation of the area by paying the required fine.

"Imran Khan should submit fees towards regularisation before anyone else," directed Justice Nisar.

During the hearing, the additional attorney general presented a report prepared by the Survey of Pakistan regarding illegal constructions in Bani Gala. He informed the court that the reports prepared by the Capital Development Authority and the federal ombudsman are similar to the report of Survey of Pakistan.

The top judge wondered how encroachments could be removed in Bani Gala, saying that besides illegal constructions issues like security and pollution are also impacting the area.

He said a new government is now in power and it should look towards resolving these issues.

"Those responsible for illegal constructions need to be fined," the top judge remarked.

Turning to Prime Minister Khan's counsel Babar Awan, the chief justice asked, "You are part of the government, tell us what measures are being taken to regularise properties."

In response, Awan said, "The Cabinet is taking up this matter."

Justice Nisar then remarked, "Prime Minister Imran will also have to get his property regularised and if it is not already then he should pay a penalty and get it done."

He observed that while the constructions outside the limits of Korang riverbed could not be razed, those within its perimeters are "not acceptable in any condition".

He directed the federal government to regularise all constructions in the area, including its own.

Wrapping up the case to the extent of encroachments, the bench also ordered the government to pay its own penalties, and collect those due to be paid by citizens.

The top court ordered authorities to demolish all unauthorised constructions around Korang riverbed in the light of the report drafted by the Survey of Pakistan.

The hearing of the case was adjourned until October 12.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan should be the first to pay a penalty to get his posh Bani Gala property here regularised, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Saqib Nisar said on Monday.

Prime Minister Imran Khan should be the first to pay a penalty to get his posh Bani Gala property here regularised, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Saqib Nisar said on Monday. A three-member bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Nisar heard a case regarding encroachments in Bani Gala, a residential area located in Islamabad at the eastern bank of Rawal Lake. The cricketer-turned-politician had sought the court's attention towards the large-scale encroachment, unchecked and unplanned construction in Bani Gala, massive denuding due to massive tree felling and pollution of the Rawal Lake due to sewage. The apex court observed that it is the job of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led (PTI) government of Khan to regularise all properties located in the Bani Gala area, including his private residence, Dawn newspaper reported. Recalling that it was Khan himself who had approached the apex court with an application regarding illegal constructions in Bani Gala, Chief Justice Nisar said the prime minister would have to initiate the process of regularisation of the area by paying the required fine. "Imran Khan should submit fees towards regularisation before anyone else," directed Justice Nisar. During the hearing, the additional attorney general presented a report prepared by the Survey of Pakistan regarding illegal constructions in Bani Gala. He informed the court that the reports prepared by the Capital Development Authority and the federal ombudsman are similar to the report of Survey of Pakistan. The top judge wondered how encroachments could be removed in Bani Gala, saying that besides illegal constructions issues like security and pollution are also impacting the area. He said a new government is now in power and it should look towards resolving these issues. "Those responsible for illegal constructions need to be fined," the top judge remarked. Turning to Prime Minister Khan's counsel Babar Awan, the chief justice asked, "You are part of the government, tell us what measures are being taken to regularise properties." In response, Awan said, "The Cabinet is taking up this matter." Justice Nisar then remarked, "Prime Minister Imran will also have to get his property regularised and if it is not already then he should pay a penalty and get it done." He observed that while the constructions outside the limits of Korang riverbed could not be razed, those within its perimeters are "not acceptable in any condition". He directed the federal government to regularise all constructions in the area, including its own. Wrapping up the case to the extent of encroachments, the bench also ordered the government to pay its own penalties, and collect those due to be paid by citizens. The top court ordered authorities to demolish all unauthorised constructions around Korang riverbed in the light of the report drafted by the Survey of Pakistan. The hearing of the case was adjourned until October 12.

Pak SC asks PM Imran to pay fine to reguralise Bani Gala property

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Sunday called Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a chaprasi&nbsp;(peon), adding that Islamabad is run by the military, ISI and terrorists.

"Imran Khan is nothing but a 'chaprasi'&nbsp;because the country (Pakistan) is run by the military, ISI and terrorists, and Imran Khan is just one of the 'chaprasi'&nbsp;of the government. He may be called the Prime Minister, but he is a 'chaprasi'," Swamy said while addressing a press conference in Tripura.

"There is only one solution to Pakistan. Balochis don't want to be part of Pakistan, Sindhis don't want to be part of Pakistan, Pashtuns don't want to be part of Pakistan, so break Pakistan into four parts - these three (Baloch, Sindh, Pashtun) and the residual West Punjab.... I also think that (External Affairs Minister) Sushma Swaraj should not waste her breath speaking about Pakistan in the UN because Pakistan gets psychic pleasure when India abuses it. Just ignore Pakistan, prepare your military and one day break it up into four," he added.

Swamy's statement comes after Swaraj on Saturday used the United Nations platform to highlight the serious issue of Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism and human rights violations in India.

Meanwhile, speaking on Bangladesh, Swamy said, "India will continue to support it, but Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should be warned to stop those mad people from demolishing Hindu temples, converting Hindu temples into Masjid and converting Hindus to Muslims.

If Bangladesh does not stop torturing the Hindus, I would recommend that our government invades Bangladesh and takes it over."

Swamy was in Agartala to attend a programme of 'Sanskritik Gaurav Sansthan'&nbsp;Tripura unit.&nbsp;

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Sunday called Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a chaprasi (peon), adding that Islamabad is run by the military, ISI and terrorists.

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Sunday called Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a chaprasi (peon), adding that Islamabad is run by the military, ISI and terrorists. "Imran Khan is nothing but a 'chaprasi' because the country (Pakistan) is run by the military, ISI and terrorists, and Imran Khan is just one of the 'chaprasi' of the government. He may be called the Prime Minister, but he is a 'chaprasi'," Swamy said while addressing a press conference in Tripura. "There is only one solution to Pakistan. Balochis don't want to be part of Pakistan, Sindhis don't want to be part of Pakistan, Pashtuns don't want to be part of Pakistan, so break Pakistan into four parts - these three (Baloch, Sindh, Pashtun) and the residual West Punjab.... I also think that (External Affairs Minister) Sushma Swaraj should not waste her breath speaking about Pakistan in the UN because Pakistan gets psychic pleasure when India abuses it. Just ignore Pakistan, prepare your military and one day break it up into four," he added. Swamy's statement comes after Swaraj on Saturday used the United Nations platform to highlight the serious issue of Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism and human rights violations in India. Meanwhile, speaking on Bangladesh, Swamy said, "India will continue to support it, but Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should be warned to stop those mad people from demolishing Hindu temples, converting Hindu temples into Masjid and converting Hindus to Muslims. If Bangladesh does not stop torturing the Hindus, I would recommend that our government invades Bangladesh and takes it over." Swamy was in Agartala to attend a programme of 'Sanskritik Gaurav Sansthan' Tripura unit.

ISI, Army and terrorists run Pakistan; Imran Khan a 'chaprasi': Subramanian Swamy

The BJP Monday took a swipe at the Congress for "failing" to field candidates for the upcoming urban local bodies (ULB) elections, saying it is instead "spinning excuses" to hide "inability" to motivate the party cadre.

ULB elections are scheduled to take place in four phases beginning October 8 and the panchayat polls will be held in November-December in nine phases.

"The Congress has failed to field candidates for the ULB elections and instead they are spinning excuses to hide its inability to rejuvenate its cadre and motivate them to join the electoral fray", BJP state spokesperson&nbsp;Brigadier (retired) Anil Gupta told reporters here.

He claimed that the BJP has so far won more than 50 seats uncontested in Kashmir.

While complimenting the party's candidates for displaying utmost respect for democracy and people's sentiments by braving all odds to file their nominations, Gupta castigated Congress for being unable to keep up to its "lofty claims" of being a party that has a base in all three regions of the state.

"The mere fact that the party is unable to field candidates shows that it has been completely decimated at the grassroots level and lacks organisational strength," he said.

The Congress today is an "only leaders party" and has no mass base and cadre strength, Gupta said.

He said the situation is no better in the Jammu region.

"At a number of places the party has failed to field even a single candidate and plans to piggyback on Independent or rebel candidates," Gupta said.

"The reality is that individuals offered party's mandate are declining to accept it as they realise that contesting on Congress party's symbol means a certain defeat", he said.

The BJP leader said that Congress's "desperate attempt to win over the electorate by launching an anti-BJP propaganda has failed miserably because the patriotic people of the region are determined to teach the&nbsp;Congress a lesson for pro-Pakistan utterances of its senior leaders".

Reacting to the statement of chief spokesperson of the Congress that it is part of Congress party's strategy to not to field their own candidates but support Independents in order to defeat the BJP candidates, Gupta said it is "nothing but a desperate attempt to escape from reality".

Challenging the Congress, he said, "It is not a proxy contest. It is a direct fight. If the Congress is sure of its strength it must enter the electoral battle directly and field its own candidates".&nbsp;

The BJP Monday took a swipe at the Congress for "failing" to field candidates for the upcoming urban local bodies (ULB) elections, saying it is instead "spinning excuses" to hide "inability" to motivate the party cadre.

The BJP Monday took a swipe at the Congress for "failing" to field candidates for the upcoming urban local bodies (ULB) elections, saying it is instead "spinning excuses" to hide "inability" to motivate the party cadre. ULB elections are scheduled to take place in four phases beginning October 8 and the panchayat polls will be held in November-December in nine phases. "The Congress has failed to field candidates for the ULB elections and instead they are spinning excuses to hide its inability to rejuvenate its cadre and motivate them to join the electoral fray", BJP state spokesperson Brigadier (retired) Anil Gupta told reporters here. He claimed that the BJP has so far won more than 50 seats uncontested in Kashmir. While complimenting the party's candidates for displaying utmost respect for democracy and people's sentiments by braving all odds to file their nominations, Gupta castigated Congress for being unable to keep up to its "lofty claims" of being a party that has a base in all three regions of the state. "The mere fact that the party is unable to field candidates shows that it has been completely decimated at the grassroots level and lacks organisational strength," he said. The Congress today is an "only leaders party" and has no mass base and cadre strength, Gupta said. He said the situation is no better in the Jammu region. "At a number of places the party has failed to field even a single candidate and plans to piggyback on Independent or rebel candidates," Gupta said. "The reality is that individuals offered party's mandate are declining to accept it as they realise that contesting on Congress party's symbol means a certain defeat", he said. The BJP leader said that Congress's "desperate attempt to win over the electorate by launching an anti-BJP propaganda has failed miserably because the patriotic people of the region are determined to teach the Congress a lesson for pro-Pakistan utterances of its senior leaders". Reacting to the statement of chief spokesperson of the Congress that it is part of Congress party's strategy to not to field their own candidates but support Independents in order to defeat the BJP candidates, Gupta said it is "nothing but a desperate attempt to escape from reality". Challenging the Congress, he said, "It is not a proxy contest. It is a direct fight. If the Congress is sure of its strength it must enter the electoral battle directly and field its own candidates".

BJP attacks Congress over 'failure' to field candidates in local body polls

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi is expected to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and US National Security Advisor John Bolton at the White House on Tuesday, reports said.

Qureshi arrived in the US on Sunday for bilateral talks with the officials after his trip to New York for the United Nation's General Assembly session. &nbsp;

His first stop is expected to be the White House where he will meet Bolton for talks on untangling Pakistan's ruffled relations with the US.&nbsp;

He will then proceed to the US State Department for his second meeting with the Secretary of State.

On Monday, Qureshi will meet Pakistani diplomats and experts to prepare for the crucial talks that are to be held on Tuesday.

Pompeo and Qureshi first met in Islamabad in September when the US approached the new Pakistani government to discuss key issues that have strained decades-old ties between the two countries.

It was during his Islamabad visit that Pompeo invited the Pakistani foreign minister to visit Washington for further talks.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi is expected to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and US National Security Advisor John Bolton at the White House on Tuesday, reports said.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi is expected to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and US National Security Advisor John Bolton at the White House on Tuesday, reports said. Qureshi arrived in the US on Sunday for bilateral talks with the officials after his trip to New York for the United Nation's General Assembly session. His first stop is expected to be the White House where he will meet Bolton for talks on untangling Pakistan's ruffled relations with the US. He will then proceed to the US State Department for his second meeting with the Secretary of State. On Monday, Qureshi will meet Pakistani diplomats and experts to prepare for the crucial talks that are to be held on Tuesday. Pompeo and Qureshi first met in Islamabad in September when the US approached the new Pakistani government to discuss key issues that have strained decades-old ties between the two countries. It was during his Islamabad visit that Pompeo invited the Pakistani foreign minister to visit Washington for further talks.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi expected to meet Pompeo, NSA over US-Pak relations 

Lt Gen Asim Munir is likely to be made the new chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI after &nbsp;Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals retired on Monday, reports said.&nbsp;

As per reports, General Qamar Bajwa approved the promotion of Gen Munir and the six other generals on Monday.&nbsp;

It is highly expected that Lt Gen Munir would be appointed as the Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), The News reported.

Traditionally, the coveted slot of DG ISI, considered the most powerful after the army chief’s post, goes to a three-star general with a considerable experience of working in intelligence agencies.

According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the promoted officers are: Maj Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, Vice Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Shaheen Mazhar, ISI DG (Planning) Maj Gen Abdul Aziz, Military Intelligence Director General Maj Gen Asim Munir, Maj Gen Syed Muhammad Adnan and Frontier Corps IG Maj Gen Waseem Ashraf.

Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported.

Lt Gen Asim Munir is likely to be made the new chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI after Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals retired on Monday, reports said.

Lt Gen Asim Munir is likely to be made the new chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI after Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals retired on Monday, reports said. As per reports, General Qamar Bajwa approved the promotion of Gen Munir and the six other generals on Monday. It is highly expected that Lt Gen Munir would be appointed as the Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), The News reported. Traditionally, the coveted slot of DG ISI, considered the most powerful after the army chief’s post, goes to a three-star general with a considerable experience of working in intelligence agencies. According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the promoted officers are: Maj Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, Vice Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Shaheen Mazhar, ISI DG (Planning) Maj Gen Abdul Aziz, Military Intelligence Director General Maj Gen Asim Munir, Maj Gen Syed Muhammad Adnan and Frontier Corps IG Maj Gen Waseem Ashraf. Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported.

Lt Gen Asim Munir likely to be appointed as new ISI chief 

When it's United Nations General Assembly, fireworks are bound to happen especially when it comes to India and Pakistan. This time was no different. Rancour ruled as India and Pakistan clashed. India exposed Pakistan's duplicity in dealing with terror while Pakistan raked up Kashmir.

In the midst of that, as a journalist, I wanted an interview with Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. He was on an interview giving mode, giving interviews to many western media outlets and speaking at various places including Asia society in New York. But not one to any Indian media.

I tried approaching Pakistan High Commission, who clearly said, I should have approached earlier since the schedule had been made. Standard reply for any mission if one has to say no.&nbsp;

So my best chance was SAARC meet. Luck was partial with me. I was in the room where SAARC meeting was to happen on September 27. Pakistan's foreign minister was first to enter. I immediately got my mike and asked him politely that can I get small 2-5 minutes interview. But his officials were quick, saying no to it.

The second chance was at the Asia Society. I rushed to the society as soon as I got to know it. Since it was an invitation-only event, I waited outside for 45 minutes. As soon as the event got over, I rushed to get his byte/interview. This time the security came in. Still, managed to shout a question to him. I asked, "Mr FM, What will be the focus of your UNGA Speech?". He smiled back and replied, "come and listen". And then I was whisked away by the security.

My third and final chance was something that gives me goosebumps. I was informed that Qureshi is holding a press briefing. The presser was at the Roosevelt hotel in New York. This hotel is Pakistan's national airways -PIA's property. Most Pakistani ministers and officials stay here during the visit to New York, and Qureshi being the finance minister of Pakistan was no different. The PC was at 6 pm New York time on September 29, a few hours after his speech at UNGA.&nbsp;

The speech full of anti-India rants was the repetition of established Pakistani policies and statements. Hoping it was my last chance to get him, I rushed to the hotel. I was frisked by US security officials who are given to most visiting dignitary for UNGA. I sat on the last seat.

The room was full of all Pakistani media and every Pakistani diplomat, including Islamabad's permanent representative to UN, Maleeha Lodhi. Qureshi's presser had nothing new to offer except anti-India stuff. But then came the moment. A tall guy came to me and started asking me questions-- enquiring who am I.

He suspected me to be from Indian media and he made me know they are not welcomed. He then asked me to show my ID-- I showed my UN card. He looked at it, and then it was clear to him that I was an Indian. He did not like my presence.

He asked me in heavy Urdu accent, "apka name list mai nahi hai." I thought before I can land in some trouble, I better leave. My camera person was downstairs, so I told the person, let me get my camera person. He physically stopped me by sitting in front of me.&nbsp;

Luckily, before he could turn more aggressive, my camera person arrived and quickly I went to him and said let's leave. He was visibly perplexed at my behaviour to the extent that he said, "sid you came for byte and now the PC is still on and you are leaving". I didn't answer. Just said let's leave. But then the aggressive looking guy came near to us.&nbsp;

My camera person said he needs to drink water and for the next 5 minutes, the person who stopped me from leaving stood behind my camera person. Those 5 minutes seemed like 5 hours.&nbsp;

As soon as my camera person stopped drinking water, I grabbed him and rushed to the lift. Only when we were out of the building, I explained him the entire ordeal.&nbsp;

So, in the end, I did not get Qureshi's interview and even after 3rd try, I did not get lucky.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When it's United Nations General Assembly, fireworks are bound to happen especially when it comes to India and Pakistan. This time was no different. Rancour ruled as India and Pakistan clashed.

When it's United Nations General Assembly, fireworks are bound to happen especially when it comes to India and Pakistan. This time was no different. Rancour ruled as India and Pakistan clashed. India exposed Pakistan's duplicity in dealing with terror while Pakistan raked up Kashmir. In the midst of that, as a journalist, I wanted an interview with Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. He was on an interview giving mode, giving interviews to many western media outlets and speaking at various places including Asia society in New York. But not one to any Indian media. I tried approaching Pakistan High Commission, who clearly said, I should have approached earlier since the schedule had been made. Standard reply for any mission if one has to say no. So my best chance was SAARC meet. Luck was partial with me. I was in the room where SAARC meeting was to happen on September 27. Pakistan's foreign minister was first to enter. I immediately got my mike and asked him politely that can I get small 2-5 minutes interview. But his officials were quick, saying no to it. The second chance was at the Asia Society. I rushed to the society as soon as I got to know it. Since it was an invitation-only event, I waited outside for 45 minutes. As soon as the event got over, I rushed to get his byte/interview. This time the security came in. Still, managed to shout a question to him. I asked, "Mr FM, What will be the focus of your UNGA Speech?". He smiled back and replied, "come and listen". And then I was whisked away by the security. My third and final chance was something that gives me goosebumps. I was informed that Qureshi is holding a press briefing. The presser was at the Roosevelt hotel in New York. This hotel is Pakistan's national airways -PIA's property. Most Pakistani ministers and officials stay here during the visit to New York, and Qureshi being the finance minister of Pakistan was no different. The PC was at 6 pm New York time on September 29, a few hours after his speech at UNGA. The speech full of anti-India rants was the repetition of established Pakistani policies and statements. Hoping it was my last chance to get him, I rushed to the hotel. I was frisked by US security officials who are given to most visiting dignitary for UNGA. I sat on the last seat. The room was full of all Pakistani media and every Pakistani diplomat, including Islamabad's permanent representative to UN, Maleeha Lodhi. Qureshi's presser had nothing new to offer except anti-India stuff. But then came the moment. A tall guy came to me and started asking me questions-- enquiring who am I. He suspected me to be from Indian media and he made me know they are not welcomed. He then asked me to show my ID-- I showed my UN card. He looked at it, and then it was clear to him that I was an Indian. He did not like my presence. He asked me in heavy Urdu accent, "apka name list mai nahi hai." I thought before I can land in some trouble, I better leave. My camera person was downstairs, so I told the person, let me get my camera person. He physically stopped me by sitting in front of me. Luckily, before he could turn more aggressive, my camera person arrived and quickly I went to him and said let's leave. He was visibly perplexed at my behaviour to the extent that he said, "sid you came for byte and now the PC is still on and you are leaving". I didn't answer. Just said let's leave. But then the aggressive looking guy came near to us. My camera person said he needs to drink water and for the next 5 minutes, the person who stopped me from leaving stood behind my camera person. Those 5 minutes seemed like 5 hours. As soon as my camera person stopped drinking water, I grabbed him and rushed to the lift. Only when we were out of the building, I explained him the entire ordeal. So, in the end, I did not get Qureshi's interview and even after 3rd try, I did not get lucky. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Chasing Pakistan's foreign minister in New York

Pakistan Foreign Minister Makhdoom Mehmood Shah Qureshi has said that Islamabad is open to discuss the issue of Dr Shakil Afridi, who is considered a Central Investigation Agency (CIA) hero in the United States for helping Washington track down terrorist Osama bin Laden.

Afridi was sent behind the bars for helping the US by the Pakistan regime.

Fox News quoted Qureshi as saying, "Openings are always there. He is viewed in a particular light in Pakistan; he is viewed as a traitor in Pakistan. But he is viewed as a friend in the US. So we have to bridge this gap." Qureshi asserted that courts will decide Afridi's fate and not politics.

"We have a legal process. Afridi went through that legal process, he was given a fair chance to plead his case. He was sentenced, he was convicted and is serving a sentence. We expect you to respect our legal process, as we respect yours," he said.

Afridi, who has been awarded a 26-year sentence, is believed to have committed treason by working with CIA, however, he was convicted on the pretext of having ties with a militant group Lashkar e-Islam. His lawyers have denied the claims of his ties with terrorist outfit calling them bogus.

Trump administration has time and again asked Islamabad to release Afridi.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Makhdoom Mehmood Shah Qureshi has said that Islamabad is open to discuss the issue of Dr Shakil Afridi, who is considered a Central Investigation Agency (CIA) hero in the United States for helping Washington track down terrorist Osama bin Laden.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Makhdoom Mehmood Shah Qureshi has said that Islamabad is open to discuss the issue of Dr Shakil Afridi, who is considered a Central Investigation Agency (CIA) hero in the United States for helping Washington track down terrorist Osama bin Laden. Afridi was sent behind the bars for helping the US by the Pakistan regime. Fox News quoted Qureshi as saying, "Openings are always there. He is viewed in a particular light in Pakistan; he is viewed as a traitor in Pakistan. But he is viewed as a friend in the US. So we have to bridge this gap." Qureshi asserted that courts will decide Afridi's fate and not politics. "We have a legal process. Afridi went through that legal process, he was given a fair chance to plead his case. He was sentenced, he was convicted and is serving a sentence. We expect you to respect our legal process, as we respect yours," he said. Afridi, who has been awarded a 26-year sentence, is believed to have committed treason by working with CIA, however, he was convicted on the pretext of having ties with a militant group Lashkar e-Islam. His lawyers have denied the claims of his ties with terrorist outfit calling them bogus. Trump administration has time and again asked Islamabad to release Afridi.

Pakistan open to talk about doctor who helped US to track Osama Bin Laden

A video showing a senior Pakistani bureaucrat stealing the wallet of a visiting Kuwaiti dignitary has gone viral on social media, prompting authorities to suspend the high-ranking official, according to media reports.

The dignitary was part of a high-level delegation which was in the country to discuss bilateral trade.

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Grade 20 GoP officer stealing a Kuwaiti official's wallet - the official was part of a visiting delegation which had come to meet the PM <a href="https://t.co/axODYL3SaZ">pic.twitter.com/axODYL3SaZ</a>
— omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/omar_quraishi/status/1045761625888882689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zarrar Haider Khan, joint secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production and a BS-20 officer of the state bureaucracy's elite Pakistan Administrative Service, was caught on CCTV cameras while pocketing the wallet which had a significant sum of Kuwaiti dinars, Dawn news reported.

In the six-second video clip, the bureaucrat could be seen lifting the wallet from the table and putting it into his pocket at a time when the Kuwaiti delegates and officials of the ministry had left the hall of the Economic Affairs Division after their meeting.

The guilty joint secretary has been suspended from service on disciplinary grounds after he was caught stealing. But so far, no complaint has been registered with the police.

The issue came to light when a member of the Kuwaiti delegation lodged a complaint with Pakistani officials regarding his missing wallet.

A search was conducted in the ministry and all rooms and offices were combed. Even lower grade employees of the ministry were quizzed and physically searched but nothing was initially found.

The footage captured by a CCTV camera installed in the hall was examined later, which revealed that the theft was committed by the senior officer.

When the officer was approached, he first denied his involvement. However, when the CCTV footage was shown to him, he produced the wallet, the sources stated.

When the Kuwaiti officials were informed of the recovery of his wallet, the delegation asked the authorities to provide them with the identification of the culprit.

The Pakistani officials initially showed reluctance and assured the guests that legal action would be taken against the person.

However, the sources said, it was on the insistence of the delegates&nbsp;who were extremely angry over the incident&nbsp;that Pakistani officials divulged the individual's identity and shared the CCTV footage.

Sources said that an internal inquiry was in progress against the bureaucrat and further action will be taken.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, when asked about the incident, said that most of the present bureaucrats had received their "moral training" by the previous governments.&nbsp;

A video showing a senior Pakistani bureaucrat stealing the wallet of a visiting Kuwaiti dignitary has gone viral on social media, prompting authorities to suspend the high-ranking official, according to media reports.

A video showing a senior Pakistani bureaucrat stealing the wallet of a visiting Kuwaiti dignitary has gone viral on social media, prompting authorities to suspend the high-ranking official, according to media reports. The dignitary was part of a high-level delegation which was in the country to discuss bilateral trade. Grade 20 GoP officer stealing a Kuwaiti official's wallet - the official was part of a visiting delegation which had come to meet the PM pic.twitter.com/axODYL3SaZ — omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) September 28, 2018 × Zarrar Haider Khan, joint secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production and a BS-20 officer of the state bureaucracy's elite Pakistan Administrative Service, was caught on CCTV cameras while pocketing the wallet which had a significant sum of Kuwaiti dinars, Dawn news reported. In the six-second video clip, the bureaucrat could be seen lifting the wallet from the table and putting it into his pocket at a time when the Kuwaiti delegates and officials of the ministry had left the hall of the Economic Affairs Division after their meeting. The guilty joint secretary has been suspended from service on disciplinary grounds after he was caught stealing. But so far, no complaint has been registered with the police. The issue came to light when a member of the Kuwaiti delegation lodged a complaint with Pakistani officials regarding his missing wallet. A search was conducted in the ministry and all rooms and offices were combed. Even lower grade employees of the ministry were quizzed and physically searched but nothing was initially found. The footage captured by a CCTV camera installed in the hall was examined later, which revealed that the theft was committed by the senior officer. When the officer was approached, he first denied his involvement. However, when the CCTV footage was shown to him, he produced the wallet, the sources stated. When the Kuwaiti officials were informed of the recovery of his wallet, the delegation asked the authorities to provide them with the identification of the culprit. The Pakistani officials initially showed reluctance and assured the guests that legal action would be taken against the person. However, the sources said, it was on the insistence of the delegates who were extremely angry over the incident that Pakistani officials divulged the individual's identity and shared the CCTV footage. Sources said that an internal inquiry was in progress against the bureaucrat and further action will be taken. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, when asked about the incident, said that most of the present bureaucrats had received their "moral training" by the previous governments.

Watch: Pak bureaucrat caught stealing Kuwaiti delegate's wallet, suspended

Pakistan's former dictator General Pervez Musharraf is "growing weaker rapidly" due to a new unspecified illness and cannot return to face the treason case now, a senior leader of his party has said.

Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007.

According to Muhammad Amjad, a former chairman of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) -- a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 -- said the former president has to visit London for treatment in every three months due to the new unspecified ailment, Dawn news reported.

"Pervez Musharraf had a fracture in his spine, for which he got treated in the USA. But nowadays he is being treated for a separate ailment. For this, he has to go to London after every three months," Amjad told reporters after a party meeting on Sunday.

"We cannot tell the nation about the ailment right now but we will tell the court about it and also present the ailment's documentation to the chief justice. 
"Musharraf is growing weaker rapidly so we cannot put his life at risk," he said.

Amjad said Musharraf would return to Pakistan but on the guarantees that he would be given a free trial and also allowed to leave the country for treatment.

He claimed that the party tried to bring him back to the country before the July 25 general elections but "hurdles were created in his way".

Amjad reiterated that Musharraf wants to appear before the court and is in consultation with his legal team to decide when and how to return, the report said.

The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case.

Last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court assured Musharraf that high-level security will be provided to him if he returns to the country to face the trial in the treason case.

The former president was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for suspending the Constitution and imposing emergency which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

A conviction for high-profile treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, has been declared a fugitive in the Benazir Bhutto murder case and Red Mosque cleric killing case.

Pakistan's former dictator General Pervez Musharraf is "growing weaker rapidly" due to a new unspecified illness and cannot return to face the treason case now, a senior leader of his party has said.

Pakistan's former dictator General Pervez Musharraf is "growing weaker rapidly" due to a new unspecified illness and cannot return to face the treason case now, a senior leader of his party has said. Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007. According to Muhammad Amjad, a former chairman of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) -- a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 -- said the former president has to visit London for treatment in every three months due to the new unspecified ailment, Dawn news reported. "Pervez Musharraf had a fracture in his spine, for which he got treated in the USA. But nowadays he is being treated for a separate ailment. For this, he has to go to London after every three months," Amjad told reporters after a party meeting on Sunday. "We cannot tell the nation about the ailment right now but we will tell the court about it and also present the ailment's documentation to the chief justice. "Musharraf is growing weaker rapidly so we cannot put his life at risk," he said. Amjad said Musharraf would return to Pakistan but on the guarantees that he would be given a free trial and also allowed to leave the country for treatment. He claimed that the party tried to bring him back to the country before the July 25 general elections but "hurdles were created in his way". Amjad reiterated that Musharraf wants to appear before the court and is in consultation with his legal team to decide when and how to return, the report said. The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case. Last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court assured Musharraf that high-level security will be provided to him if he returns to the country to face the trial in the treason case. The former president was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for suspending the Constitution and imposing emergency which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. A conviction for high-profile treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, has been declared a fugitive in the Benazir Bhutto murder case and Red Mosque cleric killing case.

Musharraf 'growing weaker' from unspecified illness, can't return to Pakistan now: Party leader

The jeep bumps along a sloppy mud road carved between Pakistan's northern mountains, its tyres running with breathtaking precision along the very edge, where nothing but air lies between them and the snake-like river winding hundreds of feet below.

More than 3,000 metres (around 10,000 feet) above sea level the vehicle has no room for error, its other side just inches from scraping along the rock face, its passengers worriedly monitoring how anxious the driver appears.

For his part, Shahid Karim spends as much of his time watching the mountains themselves as he does gauging how close he is bringing his jeep to the edge.&nbsp;

"At every second death is written on this road... This whole area is notorious for landslides," he says, adding that falling rocks have struck his vehicle many times.

The precarious roads of Pakistan's mountainous north are lifelines for its scattered and remote population. The thoroughfare Karim is travelling is the only one connecting the 2,400 residents of the village of Shimshal to the outside world.

Drivers like Karim, a native of the region who has been navigating this particular stretch of road since 2004, are the only ones who use them, making a career out of ferrying villagers, tourists, and the handful of Westerners who make the knuckle-whitening journey each year.

They are the ones with the experience to know that landslides are as great a threat as the road's narrowness and lack of safety barriers.&nbsp;

During spring and autumn, when there is no snow or rain, an ibex walking delicately along the heights can trigger a rockfall, while a strong breeze on a summer's day can set pebbles sliding away.

The lightest rainfall can shift rocks, while in the frozen winters even sunlight can be dangerous, melting the snow that surrounds boulders and prevents them from raining down on the road.

Sometimes rocks falling from above are less of a danger than those tumbling away beneath the car tyres, loosened by the weight of the vehicle and sent crashing down into the abyss.

The more desperate passengers are for the journey to end, the slower the driver is forced to crawl along the roads.

"We have passengers with us whose lives depend on us," Karim says. "So it is really important to drive slowly."

Death is a journey

This road was inaugurated in 2003 after 18 years of labour by locals in which three villagers lost their lives.&nbsp;

Before then, the people of Shimshal had to walk for days, crossing icy rivers and climbing deadly ridges in freezing temperatures to reach the nearest large village of Passu.

Previous rulers of Hunza, the former principality that encompasses Shimshal and now forms part of Pakistan's northern Gilgit-Baltistan region, would banish criminals to Shimshal as punishment.

The suffering lay in the journey, which was so tough that few survived it, most slipping to their death from precarious ridges with others succumbing to cold and pneumonia.

The road, despite causing so much fear in the hearts of tourists, is therefore seen as a blessing by residents of Shimshal, bringing education and basic amenities to their remote mountain homes.

That includes electricity: for years residents have generated power with small solar panels, though this year a hydropower plant built with materials brought in along the road is set to be completed.

Honking horns at dawn

Every morning the sound of a blaring car horn tears into the dawn serenity of Shimshal.

Its residents are not bothered by the rude awakening. So few people dare drive the road that -- barring emergencies -- those who wish to travel outside crowd into just one vehicle that leaves daily. Its driver is simply making sure no one misses the journey. &nbsp;

A mere six vehicles from Shimshal and four from Passu regularly make the commute. The villagers muster at a single point with their luggage as the driver continues cruising through the village honking, sometimes for up to half an hour.&nbsp;

Doulat Amin, the first teacher to work in Shimshal valley, is among the people waiting one rainy dawn to get into central Hunza.

"I came here in 1966 as a teacher and there were so many difficulties back then," the 75-year-old said.&nbsp;

"There was no education, because there was no road."

Travelling its rocky way is risky -- but, Amin says, God is with the passengers.

"We plead with him every time we travel on the road."

The jeep bumps along a sloppy mud road carved between Pakistan's northern mountains, its tyres running with breathtaking precision along the very edge, where nothing but air lies between them and the snake-like river winding hundreds of feet below.

The jeep bumps along a sloppy mud road carved between Pakistan's northern mountains, its tyres running with breathtaking precision along the very edge, where nothing but air lies between them and the snake-like river winding hundreds of feet below. More than 3,000 metres (around 10,000 feet) above sea level the vehicle has no room for error, its other side just inches from scraping along the rock face, its passengers worriedly monitoring how anxious the driver appears. For his part, Shahid Karim spends as much of his time watching the mountains themselves as he does gauging how close he is bringing his jeep to the edge. "At every second death is written on this road... This whole area is notorious for landslides," he says, adding that falling rocks have struck his vehicle many times. The precarious roads of Pakistan's mountainous north are lifelines for its scattered and remote population. The thoroughfare Karim is travelling is the only one connecting the 2,400 residents of the village of Shimshal to the outside world. Drivers like Karim, a native of the region who has been navigating this particular stretch of road since 2004, are the only ones who use them, making a career out of ferrying villagers, tourists, and the handful of Westerners who make the knuckle-whitening journey each year. They are the ones with the experience to know that landslides are as great a threat as the road's narrowness and lack of safety barriers. During spring and autumn, when there is no snow or rain, an ibex walking delicately along the heights can trigger a rockfall, while a strong breeze on a summer's day can set pebbles sliding away. The lightest rainfall can shift rocks, while in the frozen winters even sunlight can be dangerous, melting the snow that surrounds boulders and prevents them from raining down on the road. Sometimes rocks falling from above are less of a danger than those tumbling away beneath the car tyres, loosened by the weight of the vehicle and sent crashing down into the abyss. The more desperate passengers are for the journey to end, the slower the driver is forced to crawl along the roads. "We have passengers with us whose lives depend on us," Karim says. "So it is really important to drive slowly." Death is a journey This road was inaugurated in 2003 after 18 years of labour by locals in which three villagers lost their lives. Before then, the people of Shimshal had to walk for days, crossing icy rivers and climbing deadly ridges in freezing temperatures to reach the nearest large village of Passu. Previous rulers of Hunza, the former principality that encompasses Shimshal and now forms part of Pakistan's northern Gilgit-Baltistan region, would banish criminals to Shimshal as punishment. The suffering lay in the journey, which was so tough that few survived it, most slipping to their death from precarious ridges with others succumbing to cold and pneumonia. The road, despite causing so much fear in the hearts of tourists, is therefore seen as a blessing by residents of Shimshal, bringing education and basic amenities to their remote mountain homes. That includes electricity: for years residents have generated power with small solar panels, though this year a hydropower plant built with materials brought in along the road is set to be completed. Honking horns at dawn Every morning the sound of a blaring car horn tears into the dawn serenity of Shimshal. Its residents are not bothered by the rude awakening. So few people dare drive the road that -- barring emergencies -- those who wish to travel outside crowd into just one vehicle that leaves daily. Its driver is simply making sure no one misses the journey. A mere six vehicles from Shimshal and four from Passu regularly make the commute. The villagers muster at a single point with their luggage as the driver continues cruising through the village honking, sometimes for up to half an hour. Doulat Amin, the first teacher to work in Shimshal valley, is among the people waiting one rainy dawn to get into central Hunza. "I came here in 1966 as a teacher and there were so many difficulties back then," the 75-year-old said. "There was no education, because there was no road." Travelling its rocky way is risky -- but, Amin says, God is with the passengers. "We plead with him every time we travel on the road."

Daring death on the remote roads of Pakistan's north

Pakistan raised the Kashmir issue in the UN General Assembly on Saturday, saying the "unresolved dispute" is impacting achieving durable peace between India and Pakistan and remains a "blot on the conscience of humanity".

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, addressing the General Debate of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly, said Islamabad wanted a relationship with New Delhi based on "sovereign equality and mutual respect".&nbsp;

"We seek resolution of disputes through a serious and comprehensive dialogue that covers all issues of concern," he said in his address.&nbsp;

On the cancellation of the foreign minister-level talks on the margins of the General Assembly, Qureshi said Pakistan was to talk about all issues with India but New Delhi called off the dialogue, preferring "politics over peace".&nbsp;

"They used the pretext of stamps issued months ago...And depicting grave human rights violations, including pellet gun victims, as an excuse to back out from the talks," he said.&nbsp;

India had called off the meeting, citing the brutal killings of three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir and Islamabad releasing postage stamps "glorifying" Kashmiri militant Burhan Wani.&nbsp;

"Dialogue is the only way to address long standing issues that have long bedeviled South Asia, and prevented the region from realising its true potential," he said, adding that the "unresolved Jammu and Kashmir dispute hinders the realisation of the goal of durable peace" between the two countries.&nbsp;

"For over seventy years now, it has remained on the agenda of the UN Security Council and a blot on the conscience of humanity," he said. Qureshi also said that Pakistan is ready to engage with India for meaningful confidence building, risk reduction and avoidance of arms race in the South Asian region.&nbsp;

Qureshi also said that if India ventures across the Line of Control, or acts upon its doctrine of "limited" war against Pakistan, "it will evoke a strong and matching response."

Describing Pakistan as a victim of terrorism, Qureshi said his country wanted to sit with India to discuss all issues, including terrorism, that have created violence in cities and towns, and have led to tens of thousands of casualties.

Pakistan also brought up the issue of Kulbhushan Jadhav, an Indian national who was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court in April last year on charges of espionage and terrorism. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan raised the Kashmir issue in the UN General Assembly on Saturday, saying the "unresolved dispute" is impacting achieving durable peace between India and Pakistan and remains a "blot on the conscience of humanity".

Pakistan raised the Kashmir issue in the UN General Assembly on Saturday, saying the "unresolved dispute" is impacting achieving durable peace between India and Pakistan and remains a "blot on the conscience of humanity". Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, addressing the General Debate of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly, said Islamabad wanted a relationship with New Delhi based on "sovereign equality and mutual respect". "We seek resolution of disputes through a serious and comprehensive dialogue that covers all issues of concern," he said in his address. On the cancellation of the foreign minister-level talks on the margins of the General Assembly, Qureshi said Pakistan was to talk about all issues with India but New Delhi called off the dialogue, preferring "politics over peace". "They used the pretext of stamps issued months ago...And depicting grave human rights violations, including pellet gun victims, as an excuse to back out from the talks," he said. India had called off the meeting, citing the brutal killings of three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir and Islamabad releasing postage stamps "glorifying" Kashmiri militant Burhan Wani. "Dialogue is the only way to address long standing issues that have long bedeviled South Asia, and prevented the region from realising its true potential," he said, adding that the "unresolved Jammu and Kashmir dispute hinders the realisation of the goal of durable peace" between the two countries. "For over seventy years now, it has remained on the agenda of the UN Security Council and a blot on the conscience of humanity," he said. Qureshi also said that Pakistan is ready to engage with India for meaningful confidence building, risk reduction and avoidance of arms race in the South Asian region. Qureshi also said that if India ventures across the Line of Control, or acts upon its doctrine of "limited" war against Pakistan, "it will evoke a strong and matching response." Describing Pakistan as a victim of terrorism, Qureshi said his country wanted to sit with India to discuss all issues, including terrorism, that have created violence in cities and towns, and have led to tens of thousands of casualties. Pakistan also brought up the issue of Kulbhushan Jadhav, an Indian national who was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court in April last year on charges of espionage and terrorism.

Pak Foreign Minister rakes up Kashmir issue at UNGA, says it is impacting peace efforts between India

Chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI, Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals will retire on Monday, according to a media report.

Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported.

Commissioned in the armoured corps regiment in 1983, Lt Gen Mukhtar is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Quetta; National Defence University (NDU) Islamabad and the United States Army War College.

He assumed the office of ISI director general on December 11, 2016. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Commissioned in Frontier Force regiment in 1983, Lt Gen Butt is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad. He also served as military secretary to the prime minister and Pakistan defence attache in the US.

Commissioned in 1983, Lt Gen Rehman is a graduate of the Command and Staff Collage, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad, where he later also served as chief instructor. He has the honour of being the first lieutenant general hailing from Gilgit-Baltistan.

Commissioned in artillery in 1982, Lt Gen Hilal Hussain was appointed as commander of the Army Strategic Force Command in September 2015.

He is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad. He has served as military advisor to Pakistan's permanent representative in the UN and military secretary to the President of Pakistan.

Lt Gen Mahmood, who is currently posted as Military Secretary at GHQ, was commissioned in Frontier Force regiment in 1982.

He is a graduate of the Command and Staff Collage, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad. He has commanded an infantry division in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas. He has also served as Inspector General of the Frontier Corps and Vice Chief of General Staff.

Chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI, Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals will retire on Monday, according to a media report. Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported.

Chief of Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI, Lt General Naveed Mukhtar, and four other three-star generals will retire on Monday, according to a media report. Besides director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Mukhtar, the others retiring on Monday are Peshawar Corps Commander Lt General Nazir Ahmad Butt, Commander of Army's Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) Lt General Mian Mohammad Hilal Hussain, Military Secretary at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Lt General Ghayur Mehmood and Inspector General of Training and Evaluation, GHQ, Lt General Hidayatur Rehman, Dawn newspaper reported. Commissioned in the armoured corps regiment in 1983, Lt Gen Mukhtar is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Quetta; National Defence University (NDU) Islamabad and the United States Army War College. He assumed the office of ISI director general on December 11, 2016. Commissioned in Frontier Force regiment in 1983, Lt Gen Butt is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad. He also served as military secretary to the prime minister and Pakistan defence attache in the US. Commissioned in 1983, Lt Gen Rehman is a graduate of the Command and Staff Collage, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad, where he later also served as chief instructor. He has the honour of being the first lieutenant general hailing from Gilgit-Baltistan. Commissioned in artillery in 1982, Lt Gen Hilal Hussain was appointed as commander of the Army Strategic Force Command in September 2015. He is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad. He has served as military advisor to Pakistan's permanent representative in the UN and military secretary to the President of Pakistan. Lt Gen Mahmood, who is currently posted as Military Secretary at GHQ, was commissioned in Frontier Force regiment in 1982. He is a graduate of the Command and Staff Collage, Quetta, and the NDU Islamabad. He has commanded an infantry division in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas. He has also served as Inspector General of the Frontier Corps and Vice Chief of General Staff.

Pakistan's ISI chief Lt Gen Naveed Mukhtar to retire: Report

Rejecting Pakistan Foreign Minister Mehmood Shah Qureshi’s statement against India at the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Eenam Gambhir, India's First Secretary in Permanent Mission of India to UN, has said, "New Pakistan cast in the mould of the old."

Exercising a Right of Reply, Gambhir, in the UNGA general debate, called out Pakistan's baseless allegations levelled against India while saying that New Delhi orchestrated terror activities in Islamabad.

Referring to Qureshi's statement where he alleged India’s involvement in the 2014 Peshawar school attack, the Indian diplomat said, "Among the most outrageous was the preposterous allegation relating to the horrific terror attack on a Peshawar school four years ago. Let me recollect for the new government of Pakistan the outpouring of sorrow and pain in India that followed the massacre of innocent children in 2014. Both houses of India's Parliament had expressed solidarity while paying respect to the memory of those killed. Schools all over India had observed two minutes of silence in their memory."

She further asserted that these allegations are a part of Pakistan's attempt to look away from the "monster of terror" that it has itself created to "destabilise its neighbours and covet their territory." Gambhir also established the importance of the state of Jammu and Kashmir saying that it is an integral part of India and continue to be so.

Aiming at Pakistan's claim of fighting terrorism, India asked Pakistan to deny being the host and patron of 132 of the UN-designated terrorists and 22 terrorist entities under the 1267 and the 1988 UN Security Council sanctions regime.

Gambhir also questioned the freedom experienced by UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed's in Pakistan as he continued to set up candidates for electoral office.

Taking a dig at Pakistan's newly-found appreciation of upholding Human Rights, the Indian diplomat quoted the example of appointment and removal of Princeton economist, Professor Atif Mian's from the Economic Advisory Council on grounds that he belongs to a 'minority'.

"Before preaching to the world, championing of human rights should begin at home,” Gambhir added.

Gambhir also slammed Qureshi for his comment where he said that New Delhi cancelled the meeting of the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan on “flimsy ground.”

“The new Foreign Minister of Pakistan chose to term the gruesome killing of our security personnel by Pakistani sponsored terrorists as 'flimsy' grounds. While it may not be the case for Pakistan, for India every loss of life counts. Hence our belief that talks and terror cannot go together," she noted.

"Pakistan must demonstrate that it has moved beyond a narrative of distortion, deception and deceit," Gambhir added while snubbing Pakistan's fake claims and allegations.

Rejecting Pakistan Foreign Minister Mehmood Shah Qureshi’s statement against India at the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Eenam Gambhir, India's First Secretary in Permanent Mission of India to UN, has said, "New Pakistan cast in the mould of the old.

Rejecting Pakistan Foreign Minister Mehmood Shah Qureshi’s statement against India at the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Eenam Gambhir, India's First Secretary in Permanent Mission of India to UN, has said, "New Pakistan cast in the mould of the old." Exercising a Right of Reply, Gambhir, in the UNGA general debate, called out Pakistan's baseless allegations levelled against India while saying that New Delhi orchestrated terror activities in Islamabad. Referring to Qureshi's statement where he alleged India’s involvement in the 2014 Peshawar school attack, the Indian diplomat said, "Among the most outrageous was the preposterous allegation relating to the horrific terror attack on a Peshawar school four years ago. Let me recollect for the new government of Pakistan the outpouring of sorrow and pain in India that followed the massacre of innocent children in 2014. Both houses of India's Parliament had expressed solidarity while paying respect to the memory of those killed. Schools all over India had observed two minutes of silence in their memory." She further asserted that these allegations are a part of Pakistan's attempt to look away from the "monster of terror" that it has itself created to "destabilise its neighbours and covet their territory." Gambhir also established the importance of the state of Jammu and Kashmir saying that it is an integral part of India and continue to be so. Aiming at Pakistan's claim of fighting terrorism, India asked Pakistan to deny being the host and patron of 132 of the UN-designated terrorists and 22 terrorist entities under the 1267 and the 1988 UN Security Council sanctions regime. Gambhir also questioned the freedom experienced by UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed's in Pakistan as he continued to set up candidates for electoral office. Taking a dig at Pakistan's newly-found appreciation of upholding Human Rights, the Indian diplomat quoted the example of appointment and removal of Princeton economist, Professor Atif Mian's from the Economic Advisory Council on grounds that he belongs to a 'minority'. "Before preaching to the world, championing of human rights should begin at home,” Gambhir added. Gambhir also slammed Qureshi for his comment where he said that New Delhi cancelled the meeting of the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan on “flimsy ground.” “The new Foreign Minister of Pakistan chose to term the gruesome killing of our security personnel by Pakistani sponsored terrorists as 'flimsy' grounds. While it may not be the case for Pakistan, for India every loss of life counts. Hence our belief that talks and terror cannot go together," she noted. "Pakistan must demonstrate that it has moved beyond a narrative of distortion, deception and deceit," Gambhir added while snubbing Pakistan's fake claims and allegations.

New Pakistan is no different from the old one: India's harsh rebuttal to Islamabad at UNGA

Siddhant Sibbal

Slamming Pakistan foreign minister's United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) Speech, India has rejected the baseless allegations levelled by him and has said that "new Pakistan is cast in the same mould."

Indian diplomat Eenam Gambhir said, " we have heard are fake allegations and fake facts, which can only make for a fake vision."

India thrashed Pakistan for linking it with 2014 Peshawar school attack in which 132 children died. Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan took responsibility for the attack.

Call it a "preposterous allegation" India said, "despicable insinuation made by the Foreign Minister of Pakistan dishonours the memory of the innocent lives lost to terrorists on that day."

Calling it a "desperate attempt to look away from the monster of terror" that Pakistan has itself created in its "quest to destabilize its neighbours and covet their territory."

Pakistan's foreign minister during his UNGA speech had held India responsible for the attack saying that it had "links with terrorists supported by India."

Back then India saw a major outpouring of support. Both houses of India's Parliament had expressed solidarity while paying respect to the memory of those killed. Schools all over India had observed two minutes of silence in their memory.

Pakistan's FM raked up Kashmir and even did a special briefing after his UNGA speech in which he was critical of India.

India also questioned the human rights track record of Pakistan and highlighted how Atif Mian was removed from the economic advisory council since he is an Ahmadiyya.

Atif Mian is a Pakistani-American economist and the first person of Pakistani origin to rank among the top 25 young economists of the world was removed from Economic Advisory Council of Pakistan by the new Imran Khan govt after pressure from the right-wing extremist group.&nbsp;

But the main focus remained on terrorism with India asking why 26/11 mastermind and "UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed enjoys a free run inside Pakistan and spews venom and sets up candidates for electoral office?"

India gave the rationale of why it cancelled meet with Islamabad on the sidelines of UNGA saying, "for India every loss of life counts. Hence our belief that talks and terror cannot go together."

Pakistan's PM Imran Khan had proposed a meet foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of UNGA. Initially, India accepted it but later cancelled if after it said Pakistan based proxies had killed 3 of its jawans.

Siddhant Sibbal Slamming Pakistan foreign minister's United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) Speech, India has rejected the baseless allegations levelled by him and has said that "new Pakistan is cast in the same mould.

Siddhant Sibbal Slamming Pakistan foreign minister's United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) Speech, India has rejected the baseless allegations levelled by him and has said that "new Pakistan is cast in the same mould." Indian diplomat Eenam Gambhir said, " we have heard are fake allegations and fake facts, which can only make for a fake vision." India thrashed Pakistan for linking it with 2014 Peshawar school attack in which 132 children died. Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan took responsibility for the attack. Call it a "preposterous allegation" India said, "despicable insinuation made by the Foreign Minister of Pakistan dishonours the memory of the innocent lives lost to terrorists on that day." Calling it a "desperate attempt to look away from the monster of terror" that Pakistan has itself created in its "quest to destabilize its neighbours and covet their territory." Pakistan's foreign minister during his UNGA speech had held India responsible for the attack saying that it had "links with terrorists supported by India." Back then India saw a major outpouring of support. Both houses of India's Parliament had expressed solidarity while paying respect to the memory of those killed. Schools all over India had observed two minutes of silence in their memory. Pakistan's FM raked up Kashmir and even did a special briefing after his UNGA speech in which he was critical of India. India also questioned the human rights track record of Pakistan and highlighted how Atif Mian was removed from the economic advisory council since he is an Ahmadiyya. Atif Mian is a Pakistani-American economist and the first person of Pakistani origin to rank among the top 25 young economists of the world was removed from Economic Advisory Council of Pakistan by the new Imran Khan govt after pressure from the right-wing extremist group. But the main focus remained on terrorism with India asking why 26/11 mastermind and "UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed enjoys a free run inside Pakistan and spews venom and sets up candidates for electoral office?" India gave the rationale of why it cancelled meet with Islamabad on the sidelines of UNGA saying, "for India every loss of life counts. Hence our belief that talks and terror cannot go together." Pakistan's PM Imran Khan had proposed a meet foreign ministers meet on the sidelines of UNGA. Initially, India accepted it but later cancelled if after it said Pakistan based proxies had killed 3 of its jawans.

India slams Pakistan FM's UNGA speech; says ‘New Pakistan’ cast in the same mould 

A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for talks during which five MoUs including the one on selling petroleum products on deferred payments are expected to be signed, weeks after Islamabad invited Riyadh to join the USD 50 billion CPEC as the third "strategic partner".

The visit of the delegation comprising petroleum and energy ministers takes place almost 10 days after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the cash-rich kingdom.

The delegation is expected to sign five important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the government and hold discussions during its six-day visit to Pakistan, Geo news reported.

Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan will arrive in a couple of days, according to sources.

Finance Minister Asad Umar, Petroleum Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan will be part of the team that will hold talks with the Saudi delegation, sources said.

The prospect of setting up oil refineries in the strategic Gwadar port is likely to be discussed by the delegation, the report said.

According to sources, the Saudi officials are expected to sign an agreement to sell petroleum products to Pakistan on deferred payments.

The delegation will also sign an MoU to make investments in the Balochistan Reko Diq gold and copper mines, sources said.

Further, agreements to privatise two Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) power plants and sale of phosphate-containing fertilisers to Pakistan are also expected to be signed by the delegation, the report said.

The Saudi delegation will also visit the Gwadar port and Reko Diq project, sources further said.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia recently signed "three grant agreements" to bring major investment in the country.

On September 20, Minister of Information Fawad Chaudhry announced that Saudi Arabia will be the third "strategic partner" of the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of Chinese President Xi Jinping, aimed at enhancing Beijing's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects.&nbsp;

A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for talks during which five MoUs including the one on selling petroleum products on deferred payments are expected to be signed, weeks after Islamabad invited Riyadh to join the USD 50 billion CPEC as the third "strategic partner".

A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for talks during which five MoUs including the one on selling petroleum products on deferred payments are expected to be signed, weeks after Islamabad invited Riyadh to join the USD 50 billion CPEC as the third "strategic partner". The visit of the delegation comprising petroleum and energy ministers takes place almost 10 days after Prime Minister Imran Khan returned from his first foreign trip to the cash-rich kingdom. The delegation is expected to sign five important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the government and hold discussions during its six-day visit to Pakistan, Geo news reported. Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan will arrive in a couple of days, according to sources. Finance Minister Asad Umar, Petroleum Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan will be part of the team that will hold talks with the Saudi delegation, sources said. The prospect of setting up oil refineries in the strategic Gwadar port is likely to be discussed by the delegation, the report said. According to sources, the Saudi officials are expected to sign an agreement to sell petroleum products to Pakistan on deferred payments. The delegation will also sign an MoU to make investments in the Balochistan Reko Diq gold and copper mines, sources said. Further, agreements to privatise two Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) power plants and sale of phosphate-containing fertilisers to Pakistan are also expected to be signed by the delegation, the report said. The Saudi delegation will also visit the Gwadar port and Reko Diq project, sources further said. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia recently signed "three grant agreements" to bring major investment in the country. On September 20, Minister of Information Fawad Chaudhry announced that Saudi Arabia will be the third "strategic partner" of the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of Chinese President Xi Jinping, aimed at enhancing Beijing's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects.

Saudi delegation in Pakistan for talks days after invite to join CPEC

A boys' primary school was blown up on Sunday by the Taliban in Pakistan's restive northwest tribal region bordering Afghanistan.

It was the only school in Chitral district's Arandu village, a remote area in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The attack, carried out through bombs planted around the boundary wall, has demolished two rooms and partially damaged the main building, police said.

A senior police officer said that 80 to 90 students are enrolled in the school. No one was injured as the school was closed due to Sunday.

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan and Jamatul Ahrar have claimed responsibility for bombing the school. The Taliban militants have attacked hundreds of schools in northwestern Pakistan in the past.

According to security officials, the school is situated at Dogam area where a girls' primary school was attacked in the recent past.

Educational institutions are often attacked by terrorists in Pakistan.

Last month, 12 schools, half of them all-girls', had been burnt down by unidentified militants in coordinated attacks in the restive Gilgit-Baltistan, triggering protest by local residents who sought safety for educational institutions.

According to a report, about 1,500 schools have been destroyed in Pakistan's tribal belt in 10 years.

A boys' primary school was blown up on Sunday by the Taliban in Pakistan's restive northwest tribal region bordering Afghanistan. It was the only school in Chitral district's Arandu village, a remote area in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

A boys' primary school was blown up on Sunday by the Taliban in Pakistan's restive northwest tribal region bordering Afghanistan. It was the only school in Chitral district's Arandu village, a remote area in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The attack, carried out through bombs planted around the boundary wall, has demolished two rooms and partially damaged the main building, police said. A senior police officer said that 80 to 90 students are enrolled in the school. No one was injured as the school was closed due to Sunday. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan and Jamatul Ahrar have claimed responsibility for bombing the school. The Taliban militants have attacked hundreds of schools in northwestern Pakistan in the past. According to security officials, the school is situated at Dogam area where a girls' primary school was attacked in the recent past. Educational institutions are often attacked by terrorists in Pakistan. Last month, 12 schools, half of them all-girls', had been burnt down by unidentified militants in coordinated attacks in the restive Gilgit-Baltistan, triggering protest by local residents who sought safety for educational institutions. According to a report, about 1,500 schools have been destroyed in Pakistan's tribal belt in 10 years.

Boys' primary school blown up by Taliban in Pakistan

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pakistan-helicopter-violates-indian-airspace-poonch-sector-jk-168534">J&amp;K: Pakistan helicopter violates Indian airspace in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pakistan-helicopter-violates-indian-airspace-poonch-sector-jk-168534">Poonch</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pakistan-helicopter-violates-indian-airspace-poonch-sector-jk-168534"> sector</a>

A Pakistani chopper Sunday violated the airspace along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army said. News agency PTI quoting Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said that the helicopter violated the airspace around 12:13 pm.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/hyderabad-bound-jet-airways-flight-makes-emergency-landing-indore-airport-168533">Hyderabad-bound Jet flight makes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/hyderabad-bound-jet-airways-flight-makes-emergency-landing-indore-airport-168533">emergency</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/hyderabad-bound-jet-airways-flight-makes-emergency-landing-indore-airport-168533"> landing at Indore airport</a>

A Hyderabad bound Jet Airways flight made an emergency landing at Indore airport after the crew encountered a technical glitch in the engine on Sunday, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544">'Let's come together,' UK PM Theresa May makes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544">Brexit</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544"> appeal to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544">party</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rapper-kanye-west-changes-his-name-ye-168551">Rapper Kanye West changes his name to Ye</a>

Rapper Kanye West has announced that his new name is 'Ye'. The 41-year-old musician shared the news of his name change on Twitter and wrote, "the being formally known as Kanye West. I am YE."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fearing-debt-trap-pakistan-rethinks-chinese-silk-road-projects-168559">Fearing debt trap, Pakistan rethinks Chinese 'Silk Road' projects</a>

After lengthy delays, an $8.2 billion revamp of a colonial-era rail line snaking from the Arabian Sea to the foothills of the Hindu Kush has become a test of Pakistan's ability to rethink signature Chinese "Silk Road" projects due to debt concerns.

J&K: Pakistan helicopter violates Indian airspace in Poonch sector A Pakistani chopper Sunday violated the airspace along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army said.

J&K: Pakistan helicopter violates Indian airspace in Poonch sector A Pakistani chopper Sunday violated the airspace along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army said. News agency PTI quoting Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said that the helicopter violated the airspace around 12:13 pm. Hyderabad-bound Jet flight makes emergency landing at Indore airport A Hyderabad bound Jet Airways flight made an emergency landing at Indore airport after the crew encountered a technical glitch in the engine on Sunday, news agency ANI reported. 'Let's come together,' UK PM Theresa May makes Brexit appeal to party Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals. Rapper Kanye West changes his name to Ye Rapper Kanye West has announced that his new name is 'Ye'. The 41-year-old musician shared the news of his name change on Twitter and wrote, "the being formally known as Kanye West. I am YE." Fearing debt trap, Pakistan rethinks Chinese 'Silk Road' projects After lengthy delays, an $8.2 billion revamp of a colonial-era rail line snaking from the Arabian Sea to the foothills of the Hindu Kush has become a test of Pakistan's ability to rethink signature Chinese "Silk Road" projects due to debt concerns.

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