The Afghan government on Thursday accused Pakistan of air strikes in the Afghan province of Kunar, which borders Pakistan, causing "huge financial damage".

The tension comes ahead of a scheduled visit to Kabul on Friday by Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, when he and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani are expected to discuss cooperation in stopping militant attacks.

Pakistani jets dropped four bombs on Wednesday evening in Kunar's Dangam district, according to a statement from Afghanistan's ministry of foreign affairs. It did not elaborate on the damage and made no mention of any casualties.

"Afghanistan warns that continuing violations of international norms ... will have further consequences on the relations between the two countries," the ministry said.

Pakistan's foreign ministry and military did not respond to requests for comment.

Afghanistan's Western-backed government has long accused Pakistan of harbouring Afghan Taliban insurgents, a charge that Islamabad denies.

Islamabad, in turn, accuses Afghanistan of not doing enough to eradicate Pakistani Taliban militants, many of whom are based in Afghanistan and mostly carry out attacks inside Pakistan.

The tension comes ahead of a scheduled visit to Kabul on Friday by Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, when he and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani are expected to discuss cooperation in stopping militant attacks

The Afghan government on Thursday accused Pakistan of air strikes in the Afghan province of Kunar, which borders Pakistan, causing "huge financial damage". The tension comes ahead of a scheduled visit to Kabul on Friday by Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, when he and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani are expected to discuss cooperation in stopping militant attacks. Pakistani jets dropped four bombs on Wednesday evening in Kunar's Dangam district, according to a statement from Afghanistan's ministry of foreign affairs. It did not elaborate on the damage and made no mention of any casualties. "Afghanistan warns that continuing violations of international norms ... will have further consequences on the relations between the two countries," the ministry said. Pakistan's foreign ministry and military did not respond to requests for comment. Afghanistan's Western-backed government has long accused Pakistan of harbouring Afghan Taliban insurgents, a charge that Islamabad denies. Islamabad, in turn, accuses Afghanistan of not doing enough to eradicate Pakistani Taliban militants, many of whom are based in Afghanistan and mostly carry out attacks inside Pakistan.

Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of air strikes ahead of leaders' talks

Pakistan and Afghanistan on Friday reiterated the need for achieving regional security and stability for attaining lasting peace in South Asia.

The call was made during the bilateral meeting between Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Afghanistan President Ashraf in Kabul, according to media reports.

Abbasi is on a one-day visit to Afghanistan, having arrived earlier on Friday.

During the meet, the Pakistani Prime Minister discussed a variety of issues such as counter-terror cooperation, the regional situation in South Asia, repatriation of Afghan refugees, combating drug production and bilateral trade and power projects among others with the Afghan President.

Abbasi also extended an invitation to Ghani to visit Pakistan soon. The former is expected to hold talks with Afghanistan Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abdullah Abdullah and other officials.

The Pakistan Prime Minister is accompanied by Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Iqbal Zafar Jhagra and National Security Advisor (NSA) Nasser Khan Janjua.

Ghani received Abbasi and the delegation at the Afghan Presidential Palace and was accorded a guard of honour.

Abbasi's visit to Afghanistan follows an invitation by Ghani. It comes in the light of Pakistan backing Ghani's peace offering to the Taliban.

Earlier this week, a high-level Pakistani delegation, headed by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua visited Afghanistan to hold talks with Afghan authorities on the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS), in an effort to improve the relations between the two countries.

Relations between Kabul and Islamabad have remained frosty in recent times due to the terrorist activities of the Taliban and Haqqani Network carried out in the former's land. Afghanistan contests that the two groups are supported by Pakistan and it does very little to stop them.

Pakistan has urged Afghanistan to stop the blame game and asked for its co-operation in combating terrorism, as well as ensuring lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan.

In February, the Afghan President had made a peace offer to the Taliban in the Kabul Process Conference, which also included the recognition of the militant group as a political entity.

However, the group is yet to respond to Ghani's offer.

&nbsp

The call was made during the bilateral meeting between Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Afghanistan President Ashraf in Kabul

Pakistan and Afghanistan on Friday reiterated the need for achieving regional security and stability for attaining lasting peace in South Asia. The call was made during the bilateral meeting between Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Afghanistan President Ashraf in Kabul, according to media reports. Abbasi is on a one-day visit to Afghanistan, having arrived earlier on Friday. During the meet, the Pakistani Prime Minister discussed a variety of issues such as counter-terror cooperation, the regional situation in South Asia, repatriation of Afghan refugees, combating drug production and bilateral trade and power projects among others with the Afghan President. Abbasi also extended an invitation to Ghani to visit Pakistan soon. The former is expected to hold talks with Afghanistan Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abdullah Abdullah and other officials. The Pakistan Prime Minister is accompanied by Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Iqbal Zafar Jhagra and National Security Advisor (NSA) Nasser Khan Janjua. Ghani received Abbasi and the delegation at the Afghan Presidential Palace and was accorded a guard of honour. Abbasi's visit to Afghanistan follows an invitation by Ghani. It comes in the light of Pakistan backing Ghani's peace offering to the Taliban. Earlier this week, a high-level Pakistani delegation, headed by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua visited Afghanistan to hold talks with Afghan authorities on the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS), in an effort to improve the relations between the two countries. Relations between Kabul and Islamabad have remained frosty in recent times due to the terrorist activities of the Taliban and Haqqani Network carried out in the former's land. Afghanistan contests that the two groups are supported by Pakistan and it does very little to stop them. Pakistan has urged Afghanistan to stop the blame game and asked for its co-operation in combating terrorism, as well as ensuring lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan. In February, the Afghan President had made a peace offer to the Taliban in the Kabul Process Conference, which also included the recognition of the militant group as a political entity. However, the group is yet to respond to Ghani's offer.

Pakistan, Afghanistan call for regional security, stability

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi announced a tax amnesty on Thursday aimed at broadening the government's revenue base in a country where only about 1 percent of the adult population are taxpayers.

Announcing that all 120 million national identity card holders will be assigned tax numbers, Abbasi told a news conference in Islamabad: "If you don't pay taxes, Pakistan will not be sustainable."

Under the amnesty plan, all Pakistanis will be able to declare their unreported income and assets and bring their money into the tax base after paying a 5 percent one-off penalty, Abbasi said. He said Pakistanis living overseas and declaring income or assets would pay a 2 per cent one-time penalty.

Pakistani politicians will be exempted from the amnesty, which will be effective until June 30.

"This is some 2-1/2 months' time you have to benefit from, and after that, you will have to face the law," the prime minister said.

Once the amnesty period expires, Pakistani authorities will use technology to identify and catch tax evaders.

He said only 1.2 million of Pakistan's 208 million people filed income tax returns in the last year, and of them, 500,000 paid zero taxes.

Abbasi said the government was also reducing the tax rate to encourage people to voluntarily sign up. Tax rates on individuals vary in Pakistan but can be as high as 30 percent for salaried individuals and 35 percent for non-salaried individuals.

Pakistan has one of the world's lowest number of taxpayers as a percentage of the population.

Successive governments have promised to rein in tax evasion and boost revenues but have faced fierce resistance to change, including from the many politicians and businessmen believed to be among those dodging payment.

Pakistan's nearly $300 billion economies has recently been showing signs of vulnerability despite surging growth rates above 5 percent, the fastest pace in a decade.

The government has in recent months devalued the rupee, imposed tariffs on imported goods and sought to boost exports to reduce growing balance of payments pressures.

A widened current account deficit has prompted analysts to suggest the country may need an International Monetary Fund bailout in the next 12 months.

Abbasi said he was aware of the challenges.

"We have been in a growth phase. There are current account challenges. We are tackling that," he said.&nbsp

Announcing that all 120 million national identity card holders will be assigned tax numbers, Abbasi told a news conference in Islamabad: "If you don't pay taxes, Pakistan will not be sustainable."

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi announced a tax amnesty on Thursday aimed at broadening the government's revenue base in a country where only about 1 percent of the adult population are taxpayers. Announcing that all 120 million national identity card holders will be assigned tax numbers, Abbasi told a news conference in Islamabad: "If you don't pay taxes, Pakistan will not be sustainable." Under the amnesty plan, all Pakistanis will be able to declare their unreported income and assets and bring their money into the tax base after paying a 5 percent one-off penalty, Abbasi said. He said Pakistanis living overseas and declaring income or assets would pay a 2 per cent one-time penalty. Pakistani politicians will be exempted from the amnesty, which will be effective until June 30. "This is some 2-1/2 months' time you have to benefit from, and after that, you will have to face the law," the prime minister said. Once the amnesty period expires, Pakistani authorities will use technology to identify and catch tax evaders. He said only 1.2 million of Pakistan's 208 million people filed income tax returns in the last year, and of them, 500,000 paid zero taxes. Abbasi said the government was also reducing the tax rate to encourage people to voluntarily sign up. Tax rates on individuals vary in Pakistan but can be as high as 30 percent for salaried individuals and 35 percent for non-salaried individuals. Pakistan has one of the world's lowest number of taxpayers as a percentage of the population. Successive governments have promised to rein in tax evasion and boost revenues but have faced fierce resistance to change, including from the many politicians and businessmen believed to be among those dodging payment. Pakistan's nearly $300 billion economies has recently been showing signs of vulnerability despite surging growth rates above 5 percent, the fastest pace in a decade. The government has in recent months devalued the rupee, imposed tariffs on imported goods and sought to boost exports to reduce growing balance of payments pressures. A widened current account deficit has prompted analysts to suggest the country may need an International Monetary Fund bailout in the next 12 months. Abbasi said he was aware of the challenges. "We have been in a growth phase. There are current account challenges. We are tackling that," he said.

Pakistan declares tax amnesty to broaden income revenue base

Pakistan Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif on Thursday said that Bollywood actor Salman Khan was jailed in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case because he belongs to the minority community.

In an interview with Hamid Mir of Pakistan's Geo TV, Asif said, "Salman Khan has been sentenced because he's a minority. To sentence him in a case that is twenty years old goes on to show that lives of those who are Muslims, 'untouchables' or Christians are not valued in India."

"Maybe if he belonged to the religion of the ruling party of India he would not have been given such a harsh sentence and the court might have been lenient with him," he claimed.

Earlier on Thursday, a Jodhpur court convicted Salman for five years in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case. A penalty of Rs 10,000 has also been levied on him.

Other accused in the case - Tabu, Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam - were acquitted, while Salman was held in the court.

In October 1998, total three cases in connection with poaching and one under the Arms Act were registered against Salman. The 52-year-old actor allegedly shot two blackbucks in Bhagoda ki Dhani in Kankani village near Jodhpur during the shooting of 'Hum Saath Saath Hain'.

Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Tabu and Neelam were also present in the vehicle Salman allegedly used for hunting the endangered species protected under Schedule 1 of the Indian Wildlife Act.

Pakistan foreign minister Khawaja Asif attributed Salman Khan's sentencing in the blackbuck poaching case today to his religion.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif on Thursday said that Bollywood actor Salman Khan was jailed in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case because he belongs to the minority community. In an interview with Hamid Mir of Pakistan's Geo TV, Asif said, "Salman Khan has been sentenced because he's a minority. To sentence him in a case that is twenty years old goes on to show that lives of those who are Muslims, 'untouchables' or Christians are not valued in India." "Maybe if he belonged to the religion of the ruling party of India he would not have been given such a harsh sentence and the court might have been lenient with him," he claimed. Earlier on Thursday, a Jodhpur court convicted Salman for five years in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case. A penalty of Rs 10,000 has also been levied on him. Other accused in the case - Tabu, Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam - were acquitted, while Salman was held in the court. In October 1998, total three cases in connection with poaching and one under the Arms Act were registered against Salman. The 52-year-old actor allegedly shot two blackbucks in Bhagoda ki Dhani in Kankani village near Jodhpur during the shooting of 'Hum Saath Saath Hain'. Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Tabu and Neelam were also present in the vehicle Salman allegedly used for hunting the endangered species protected under Schedule 1 of the Indian Wildlife Act.

Salman Khan jailed because he is a minority: Pakistan Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif

India and Pakistan have agreed to resolve matters related to the treatment of diplomats after envoys of the two countries made claims and counter-claims about harassment of each other’s diplomats, the government today informed Rajya Sabha.

V K Singh, minister of state in the External Affairs Ministry, said India and Pakistan agreed on March 30 to resolve the issues in line with the 1992 ‘Code of Conduct’ for treatment of diplomatic/consular personnel in India and Pakistan.

The Code provides for “smooth and unhindered functioning” of the diplomatic and consular officials of the two countries in conformity with international laws without violating their privileges and immunities.

It also says that the two countries should not resort to intrusive and aggressive surveillance and actions such as verbal and physical harassment, disconnection of phone lines, etc.

“The Government of India has, from time to time, taken up the incidents of harassments, aggressive surveillance and intimidation of the officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and also the obstacles placed in the early completion of residential complexes for the Indian High Commission officials,” Singh said in a written response to a question.

Pakistan was asked to resolve the issues and ensure the safety of Indian diplomatic missions and officials, he said.

Last month, India had asked Pakistan to ensure safety and security of its officials working at the Indian mission in Islamabad, saying they continue to face harassment and “intimidation”.

In its 16th note verbale, a diplomatic communication, to the Pakistan foreign ministry on March 22, the Indian High Commission specifically mentioned three incidents of harassment of senior officials.

Pakistan had claimed that there had been as many as 26 instances of harassment and intimidation of its diplomats since March 7, following which Islamabad called back its high commissioner Sohail Mahmood to discuss the issue.

In response to another question on whether the government has adopted a policy of holding talks with neighbours, including Pakistan and China, to settle disputes, Singh said the process of bilateral engagement with India’s neighbours is a continuous and on-going process.

This, he said, is reflected in the government’s continuing political outreach, joint initiatives and people-to-people contacts with neighbouring countries.

Singh said India and Pakistan had agreed to hold a Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue in December 2015 and the foreign secretaries were mandated to finalise the modalities of the dialogue.

However, the dialogue did not happen because of the Pathankot Air Base terrorist attack on January 2, 2016, and intensification of cross-border terrorism, the minister said.

“The government has conveyed that it is committed to resolving all issues peacefully in keeping with the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration, in an atmosphere free from terror, hostility and violence. Onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere,” he said.

On China, Singh said New Delhi and Beijing are working towards utilising their bilateral dialogue mechanism to promote mutually beneficial cooperation, and enhancing communication at all levels in order to build greater trust and understanding.

India and China have a long-pending territorial dispute.

Last month, India had asked Pakistan to ensure safety and security of its officials working at the Indian mission in Islamabad, saying they continue to face harassment and "intimidation".

India and Pakistan have agreed to resolve matters related to the treatment of diplomats after envoys of the two countries made claims and counter-claims about harassment of each other’s diplomats, the government today informed Rajya Sabha. V K Singh, minister of state in the External Affairs Ministry, said India and Pakistan agreed on March 30 to resolve the issues in line with the 1992 ‘Code of Conduct’ for treatment of diplomatic/consular personnel in India and Pakistan. The Code provides for “smooth and unhindered functioning” of the diplomatic and consular officials of the two countries in conformity with international laws without violating their privileges and immunities. It also says that the two countries should not resort to intrusive and aggressive surveillance and actions such as verbal and physical harassment, disconnection of phone lines, etc. “The Government of India has, from time to time, taken up the incidents of harassments, aggressive surveillance and intimidation of the officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and also the obstacles placed in the early completion of residential complexes for the Indian High Commission officials,” Singh said in a written response to a question. Pakistan was asked to resolve the issues and ensure the safety of Indian diplomatic missions and officials, he said. Last month, India had asked Pakistan to ensure safety and security of its officials working at the Indian mission in Islamabad, saying they continue to face harassment and “intimidation”. In its 16th note verbale, a diplomatic communication, to the Pakistan foreign ministry on March 22, the Indian High Commission specifically mentioned three incidents of harassment of senior officials. Pakistan had claimed that there had been as many as 26 instances of harassment and intimidation of its diplomats since March 7, following which Islamabad called back its high commissioner Sohail Mahmood to discuss the issue. In response to another question on whether the government has adopted a policy of holding talks with neighbours, including Pakistan and China, to settle disputes, Singh said the process of bilateral engagement with India’s neighbours is a continuous and on-going process. This, he said, is reflected in the government’s continuing political outreach, joint initiatives and people-to-people contacts with neighbouring countries. Singh said India and Pakistan had agreed to hold a Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue in December 2015 and the foreign secretaries were mandated to finalise the modalities of the dialogue. However, the dialogue did not happen because of the Pathankot Air Base terrorist attack on January 2, 2016, and intensification of cross-border terrorism, the minister said. “The government has conveyed that it is committed to resolving all issues peacefully in keeping with the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration, in an atmosphere free from terror, hostility and violence. Onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere,” he said. On China, Singh said New Delhi and Beijing are working towards utilising their bilateral dialogue mechanism to promote mutually beneficial cooperation, and enhancing communication at all levels in order to build greater trust and understanding. India and China have a long-pending territorial dispute.

Harassment of diplomats: ‘India, Pakistan last week agreed to resolve issues’, says V K Singh in Rajya Sabha

In what can be dubbed as the first move, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has openly come to the fore and has backed the Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, calling him "professional" and "straightforward".

"The civilian and military authorities must work together to counter the challenges facing Pakistan," the Dawn reported, citing Shahbaz as saying to journalists at the Kidney and Liver Transplant Institute.

"We must respect and honour the efforts the army chief is making (to safeguard national interests)," he added.

The PML-N chief said that, in a meeting he had had with the chief of the army staff, he found him professional and straightforward.

He also dwelled upon the sacrifices made by the armed forces to ensure the country's defence and to eliminate terrorism and fanaticism, appealing people to appreciate their efforts, according to the report.

The remarks seemingly are not in sync with his party's as even as many in his party blame the military establishment for the current political crisis facing the Sharifs.

'The civilian and military authorities must work together to counter the challenges facing Pakistan,' the Dawn reported citing Shahbaz

In what can be dubbed as the first move, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has openly come to the fore and has backed the Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, calling him "professional" and "straightforward". "The civilian and military authorities must work together to counter the challenges facing Pakistan," the Dawn reported, citing Shahbaz as saying to journalists at the Kidney and Liver Transplant Institute. "We must respect and honour the efforts the army chief is making (to safeguard national interests)," he added. The PML-N chief said that, in a meeting he had had with the chief of the army staff, he found him professional and straightforward. He also dwelled upon the sacrifices made by the armed forces to ensure the country's defence and to eliminate terrorism and fanaticism, appealing people to appreciate their efforts, according to the report. The remarks seemingly are not in sync with his party's as even as many in his party blame the military establishment for the current political crisis facing the Sharifs.

Shahbaz Sharif heaps praises on Pakistan Army chief

Pakistan has informed the World Bank about India's completing of the Kishanganga hydropower project during the bank's "pause" period and has urged it to "recognise its responsibility" under the Indus Waters Treaty, a media report said today.

Pakistan has approached the World Bank, the mediator between the two countries of the water distribution treaty, in the past and raised issues over Kishanganga and Ratle projects in Jammu and Kashmir.

It has been flagging concern over designs of India's five hydroelectricity projects - Pakal Dul (1000 MW), Ratle (850 MW), Kishanganga (330 MW), Miyar (120 MW) and Lower Kalnai (48 MW) - being built/planned in the Indus river basin, contending these violate the treaty.

The power division of the energy ministry sent a fresh communique early this week to the bank's vice president urging the international organisation to ensure that India abided by the provisions of the 1960 treaty while building the projects, a government official told Dawn newspaper.

The official said the letter had reached the bank's head office in Washington and had been delivered to its vice president concerned as confirmed by Pakistan's director to the bank, the report said.

The official said there was no doubt that India had completed the Kishanganga project during the period the World Bank "paused" the process for constitution of a Court of Arbitration (COA) as requested by Pakistan in early 2016.

Pakistan's request was countered by India by calling for a neutral expert.

Pakistan had called for resolution of disputes over Kishanganga project on the Neelum river and Ratle hydropower project on the Chenab.

Asked about the government's next move, the official said the authorities could not just sit back and had to take the matter to its logical conclusion.

Pakistan had received reports in August last year that New Delhi had completed the Kishanganga project as per the design that had been objected by Islamabad, the report said.

The letter was sent to the World Bank after a Pakistani delegation of the Indus Waters Commission was not allowed to visit various projects in India, including Kishanganga and Ratle schemes, it said.

Pakistan has raised objections over the design of the hydel project in Jammu and Kashmir, saying it is not in line with the criteria laid down under the Indus Water Treaty between the two countries.

India has, however, asserted the project design is "well within parameters" of the treaty and urged the bank to appoint a neutral expert.

In December 2016, the bank had announced that it had "paused" the process for either appointing a COA or a neutral expert and started mediation between the two countries on how to advance and develop consensus in the light of the treaty on the mechanism for resolution of faulty designs of the two projects.

Since then, the bank has arranged two rounds of talks between the two sides but the Indians kept on building the project, the report alleged.

The last round of bank-facilitated and secretary-level talks between India and Pakistan were held in Washington in September that ended in disappointment for Pakistan, it said.

In view of the inability of the parties to agree on whether a COA or a neutral expert is the way forward, the World Bank is reported to have called another round of discussions to minimise the differences but failed to bring New Delhi to the negotiating table.

Under the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty, the waters of the eastern rivers&nbspthe Sutlej, Beas and Ravi had been allocated to India and that of the western rivers&nbspthe Indus, Jhelum and Chenab&nbspto Pakistan except for certain non-consumptive uses.&nbsp

Pakistan has informed the World Bank about India's completing of the Kishanganga hydropower project during the bank's 'pause' period and has urged it to 'recognise its responsibility' under the Indus Waters Treaty

Pakistan has informed the World Bank about India's completing of the Kishanganga hydropower project during the bank's "pause" period and has urged it to "recognise its responsibility" under the Indus Waters Treaty, a media report said today. Pakistan has approached the World Bank, the mediator between the two countries of the water distribution treaty, in the past and raised issues over Kishanganga and Ratle projects in Jammu and Kashmir. It has been flagging concern over designs of India's five hydroelectricity projects - Pakal Dul (1000 MW), Ratle (850 MW), Kishanganga (330 MW), Miyar (120 MW) and Lower Kalnai (48 MW) - being built/planned in the Indus river basin, contending these violate the treaty. The power division of the energy ministry sent a fresh communique early this week to the bank's vice president urging the international organisation to ensure that India abided by the provisions of the 1960 treaty while building the projects, a government official told Dawn newspaper. The official said the letter had reached the bank's head office in Washington and had been delivered to its vice president concerned as confirmed by Pakistan's director to the bank, the report said. The official said there was no doubt that India had completed the Kishanganga project during the period the World Bank "paused" the process for constitution of a Court of Arbitration (COA) as requested by Pakistan in early 2016. Pakistan's request was countered by India by calling for a neutral expert. Pakistan had called for resolution of disputes over Kishanganga project on the Neelum river and Ratle hydropower project on the Chenab. Asked about the government's next move, the official said the authorities could not just sit back and had to take the matter to its logical conclusion. Pakistan had received reports in August last year that New Delhi had completed the Kishanganga project as per the design that had been objected by Islamabad, the report said. The letter was sent to the World Bank after a Pakistani delegation of the Indus Waters Commission was not allowed to visit various projects in India, including Kishanganga and Ratle schemes, it said. Pakistan has raised objections over the design of the hydel project in Jammu and Kashmir, saying it is not in line with the criteria laid down under the Indus Water Treaty between the two countries. India has, however, asserted the project design is "well within parameters" of the treaty and urged the bank to appoint a neutral expert. In December 2016, the bank had announced that it had "paused" the process for either appointing a COA or a neutral expert and started mediation between the two countries on how to advance and develop consensus in the light of the treaty on the mechanism for resolution of faulty designs of the two projects. Since then, the bank has arranged two rounds of talks between the two sides but the Indians kept on building the project, the report alleged. The last round of bank-facilitated and secretary-level talks between India and Pakistan were held in Washington in September that ended in disappointment for Pakistan, it said. In view of the inability of the parties to agree on whether a COA or a neutral expert is the way forward, the World Bank is reported to have called another round of discussions to minimise the differences but failed to bring New Delhi to the negotiating table. Under the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty, the waters of the eastern rivers&nbspthe Sutlej, Beas and Ravi had been allocated to India and that of the western rivers&nbspthe Indus, Jhelum and Chenab&nbspto Pakistan except for certain non-consumptive uses.

Pakistan approaches World Bank over Kishanganga project: Report

Pakistan on Wednesday is observing the 39th death anniversary of former prime minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

A ceremony is slated to be held in Rawalpindi's Jinnah Park (Old Jail).

A Quran Khawani would be held at 10 AM and dua will be offered at 1 PM, reported Geo TV.

Leaders of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), a party which was founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, will gather in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh village in Sindh province to address the party workers near the mausoleum of the former prime minister.

The meeting will be addressed by party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, co-chairman and Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, opposition leaders in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah and Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, and the PPP's central leaders, the report said.

To mark the occasion, the Sindh Labour and Human Resources department has declared April 4 as a public holiday across Sindh.

A documentary displaying Bhutto`s feat and accomplishments and his life will be shown.

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was hanged in 1979, two years after his government was toppled in a military coup by the chief of the army staff General Ziaul Haq, according to the media reports.

A ceremony is slated to be held in Rawalpindi's Jinnah Park (Old Jail)

Pakistan on Wednesday is observing the 39th death anniversary of former prime minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. A ceremony is slated to be held in Rawalpindi's Jinnah Park (Old Jail). A Quran Khawani would be held at 10 AM and dua will be offered at 1 PM, reported Geo TV. Leaders of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), a party which was founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, will gather in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh village in Sindh province to address the party workers near the mausoleum of the former prime minister. The meeting will be addressed by party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, co-chairman and Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, opposition leaders in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah and Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, and the PPP's central leaders, the report said. To mark the occasion, the Sindh Labour and Human Resources department has declared April 4 as a public holiday across Sindh. A documentary displaying Bhutto`s feat and accomplishments and his life will be shown. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was hanged in 1979, two years after his government was toppled in a military coup by the chief of the army staff General Ziaul Haq, according to the media reports.

Pakistan observes Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's 39th death anniversary

The new consolidated United Nations Security Council(UNSC) list has 139 entries from Pakistan, a Pak-based daily said.

The list includes Indian national Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar, who the report said held "several passports" issued in Rawalpindi and Karachi.

The UN report says Dawood owns a "palatial bungalow in the hilly area of Noorabad, Karachi", Pakistan's daily the Dawn reported.

India's another most wanted criminal LeT chief Hafiz Saeed has also been mentioned in the list for terrorist activities.

&nbsp;Haji Mohammed Yahya Mujahid, LeT’s media contact, and Hafiz Saeed’s deputies, Abdul Salaam and Zafar Iqbal, have also been listed, Pakistan daily claimed.

The Dawn said LeT used several aliases including al-Mansoorian, Paasban-i-Kashmir, Paasban-i-Ahle Hadith, Jamaatud Dawa and Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation.

The UNSC also has list of "trusts, humanitarian organization and foundations" linked to Pakistani individuals involved in terror, Dawn said, adding that some organizations are based in the restive Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

The Dawn said the first person on list is current al-Qaida chief Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden's successor who was killed in a US operation in 2011 at Abbottabad, Pakistan.

According to the UNSC report, Zawahiri is still hiding in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

The second on the list is &nbsp;Ramzi Mohammad bin al-Sheibah, a Yemeni national arrested in Pakistan who was later handed over to the US.

India's another most wanted criminal LeT chief Hafiz Saeed has also been mentioned in the list for terrorist activities.

The new consolidated United Nations Security Council(UNSC) list has 139 entries from Pakistan, a Pak-based daily said. The list includes Indian national Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar, who the report said held "several passports" issued in Rawalpindi and Karachi. The UN report says Dawood owns a "palatial bungalow in the hilly area of Noorabad, Karachi", Pakistan's daily the Dawn reported. India's another most wanted criminal LeT chief Hafiz Saeed has also been mentioned in the list for terrorist activities. Haji Mohammed Yahya Mujahid, LeT’s media contact, and Hafiz Saeed’s deputies, Abdul Salaam and Zafar Iqbal, have also been listed, Pakistan daily claimed. The Dawn said LeT used several aliases including al-Mansoorian, Paasban-i-Kashmir, Paasban-i-Ahle Hadith, Jamaatud Dawa and Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation. The UNSC also has list of "trusts, humanitarian organization and foundations" linked to Pakistani individuals involved in terror, Dawn said, adding that some organizations are based in the restive Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The Dawn said the first person on list is current al-Qaida chief Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden's successor who was killed in a US operation in 2011 at Abbottabad, Pakistan. According to the UNSC report, Zawahiri is still hiding in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The second on the list is Ramzi Mohammad bin al-Sheibah, a Yemeni national arrested in Pakistan who was later handed over to the US.

UNSC terror list has 139 Pakistan entries: Report

Pakistan produced another imperious performance to beat the West Indies by eight wickets in the third and final Twenty20 international in Karachi on Tuesday, completing a 3-0 clean sweep of the series.

The West Indies fared better with the bat compared with the first two matches, reaching 153-6 in their 20 overs after winning the toss. Opener Andre Fletcher scored a 43-ball 52 -- his team's only half-century on this tour.

It was not enough, however, as Pakistan got to the total comfortably, with opener Babar Azam scoring a rapid 40-ball 51.

The hosts raced to 61 in the sixth over with left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman smashing two sixes and six boundaries in his 17-ball 40.

He miscued a drive off Rayad Emrit and was caught behind, but Azam and Hussain Talat continued Pakistan's domination with a 52-run stand.

Talat finished with 31, and Asif Ali scored 25 not out as Pakistan chased down the target in 16.5 overs.

"When I first took over the captaincy, (coach) Mickey Arthur told me that we should become consistent. We are giving the boys a consistent run in the team and so we are flourishing," said Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed.

He also thanked the fans in Karachi, his home city.

"Karachi has won (people's) hearts. I want to say that lot of people are hurt with no cricket in Pakistan, but we will try our best to have more," he said.

West Indian captain Jason Mohammed said his side fell short again but pointed to an improved performance.

"We weren't good enough again, but happier to play a decent game. There were lots of youngsters in our squad, including myself," said Mohammed.&nbsp

"The Karachi crowd was excellent."

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Read how Pakistan sealed a historic 3-0 series win against West Indies in Karachi!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvWI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvWI</a> REPORT ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/jkDrcu3Wry">https://t.co/jkDrcu3Wry</a> <a href="https://t.co/KNbyN6T6UN">pic.twitter.com/KNbyN6T6UN</a>
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Earlier, Fletcher added an invaluable 72 runs for the second wicket with Marlon Samuels who scored a 25-ball 31 with two sixes and as many boundaries.

Denesh Ramdin cracked a fiery 18-ball 42 not out with four boundaries and three sixes -- two in the last over from Usman Shinwari -- as the West Indies scored 57 in the last five overs.

Leg-spinner Shadab Khan finished with 2-27 while Mohammad Nawaz, Shinwari and Faheem Ashraf took a wicket each.

Two players made their T20 debuts on Tuesday -- teenage paceman Shaheen Afridi for Pakistan and Andre McCarthy for the West Indies.

Pakistan won the first match by 143 runs and the second by 82 runs. Karachi hosted all three T20s, the first international matches in the city in nine years.&nbsp

The series is the latest in a number of steps taken recently to help revive international cricket in Pakistan, which was suspended for years after a 2009 militant attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore.

The victory on Tuesday also strengthened Pakistan's position at the top of the world T20 rankings, with a four-point lead over second-placed Australia.

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Fakhar Zaman is the Man of the Match and Babar Azam is the Man of the Series<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvWI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvWI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ApnaKhelApneGhar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ApnaKhelApneGhar</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ix959bFpLV">pic.twitter.com/Ix959bFpLV</a>
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Read how Pakistan sealed a historic 3-0 series win against West Indies in Karachi!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvWI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvWI</a> REPORT ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/jkDrcu3Wry">https://t.co/jkDrcu3Wry</a> <a href="https://t.co/KNbyN6T6UN">pic.twitter.com/KNbyN6T6UN</a>
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With a 3-0 series win against West Indies, Pakistan have extended their lead at the top of the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC T20I Team Rankings! <a href="https://t.co/sFQyEdKFVq">pic.twitter.com/sFQyEdKFVq</a>
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Since Sarfraz took over as skipper in September 2016, Pakistan have notched up series wins over England, the West Indies, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and a World XI side.

Pakistan produced another imperious performance to beat the West Indies by eight wickets in the third and final Twenty20 international

Pakistan produced another imperious performance to beat the West Indies by eight wickets in the third and final Twenty20 international in Karachi on Tuesday, completing a 3-0 clean sweep of the series. The West Indies fared better with the bat compared with the first two matches, reaching 153-6 in their 20 overs after winning the toss. Opener Andre Fletcher scored a 43-ball 52 -- his team's only half-century on this tour. It was not enough, however, as Pakistan got to the total comfortably, with opener Babar Azam scoring a rapid 40-ball 51. The hosts raced to 61 in the sixth over with left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman smashing two sixes and six boundaries in his 17-ball 40. He miscued a drive off Rayad Emrit and was caught behind, but Azam and Hussain Talat continued Pakistan's domination with a 52-run stand. Talat finished with 31, and Asif Ali scored 25 not out as Pakistan chased down the target in 16.5 overs. "When I first took over the captaincy, (coach) Mickey Arthur told me that we should become consistent. We are giving the boys a consistent run in the team and so we are flourishing," said Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed. He also thanked the fans in Karachi, his home city. "Karachi has won (people's) hearts. I want to say that lot of people are hurt with no cricket in Pakistan, but we will try our best to have more," he said. West Indian captain Jason Mohammed said his side fell short again but pointed to an improved performance. "We weren't good enough again, but happier to play a decent game. There were lots of youngsters in our squad, including myself," said Mohammed. "The Karachi crowd was excellent." Read how Pakistan sealed a historic 3-0 series win against West Indies in Karachi!#PAKvWI REPORT ➡️ https://t.co/jkDrcu3Wry pic.twitter.com/KNbyN6T6UN — ICC (@ICC) April 3, 2018 × Earlier, Fletcher added an invaluable 72 runs for the second wicket with Marlon Samuels who scored a 25-ball 31 with two sixes and as many boundaries. Denesh Ramdin cracked a fiery 18-ball 42 not out with four boundaries and three sixes -- two in the last over from Usman Shinwari -- as the West Indies scored 57 in the last five overs. Leg-spinner Shadab Khan finished with 2-27 while Mohammad Nawaz, Shinwari and Faheem Ashraf took a wicket each. Two players made their T20 debuts on Tuesday -- teenage paceman Shaheen Afridi for Pakistan and Andre McCarthy for the West Indies. Pakistan won the first match by 143 runs and the second by 82 runs. Karachi hosted all three T20s, the first international matches in the city in nine years. The series is the latest in a number of steps taken recently to help revive international cricket in Pakistan, which was suspended for years after a 2009 militant attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore. The victory on Tuesday also strengthened Pakistan's position at the top of the world T20 rankings, with a four-point lead over second-placed Australia. Fakhar Zaman is the Man of the Match and Babar Azam is the Man of the Series#PAKvWI #ApnaKhelApneGhar pic.twitter.com/Ix959bFpLV — PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) April 3, 2018 × Read how Pakistan sealed a historic 3-0 series win against West Indies in Karachi!#PAKvWI REPORT ➡️ https://t.co/jkDrcu3Wry pic.twitter.com/KNbyN6T6UN — ICC (@ICC) April 3, 2018 × With a 3-0 series win against West Indies, Pakistan have extended their lead at the top of the @MRFWorldwide ICC T20I Team Rankings! pic.twitter.com/sFQyEdKFVq — ICC (@ICC) April 4, 2018 × Since Sarfraz took over as skipper in September 2016, Pakistan have notched up series wins over England, the West Indies, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and a World XI side.

Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam shine as Pakistan whitewash West Indies in T20 series

The increasing temperature across parts of Asia have made records for the month of March&nbsp;already.&nbsp;

At least seven countries set monthly high-temperature records at the end of March, according to national weather authorities and tracking by Etienne Kapikian, a meteorologist with MeteoFrance, along with climatologist Maximiliano Herrera.&nbsp;

However, Pakistan made the highest record with the hottest weather in March end.&nbsp;

On March 30, the temperature Nawabshah, in Sindh Province peaked at 45.5 degrees Celsius beating its old record of 45 degrees Celsius in March 1991.&nbsp;

Moenjo Daro, southwest of Nawabshah, also saw a temperature of 45.5 degrees Celsius on March 31. That is noteworthy since that community holds the all-time high-temperature record for the country, of 53.3 degrees Celsius, set in 2010.

Iraq and Qatar also saw record high temperatures during last March at 43.8 and 40 degrees Celsius respectively. Iraq beat its old record of 42.4 degrees Celsius in 2010 and Qatar last saw its highest temperature of March in 1998 at 39 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

These types of heat events are expected to become more frequent and severe as the world continues to warm due to human emissions of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels.&nbsp;

As the overall climate gets warmer, it becomes easier to set warm temperature extremes, even in months that didn't use to see such hot and potentially deadly weather.&nbsp;

As parts of Asia roast in springtime heat, the eastern US&nbsp;is in a very cold pattern. At the very least, these new records are a reminder that - global warming is on the rise- when one part of the world is exceptionally cool, another part must be exceptionally hot. Cerveny says these pronounced variations suggest the weather pattern will remain interesting for potential all-time records.

On March 30, the temperature Nawabshah, in Sindh Province peaked at 45.5 degrees Celsius beating its old record of 45 degrees Celcius of March 1991

The increasing temperature across parts of Asia have made records for the month of March already. At least seven countries set monthly high-temperature records at the end of March, according to national weather authorities and tracking by Etienne Kapikian, a meteorologist with MeteoFrance, along with climatologist Maximiliano Herrera. However, Pakistan made the highest record with the hottest weather in March end. On March 30, the temperature Nawabshah, in Sindh Province peaked at 45.5 degrees Celsius beating its old record of 45 degrees Celsius in March 1991. Moenjo Daro, southwest of Nawabshah, also saw a temperature of 45.5 degrees Celsius on March 31. That is noteworthy since that community holds the all-time high-temperature record for the country, of 53.3 degrees Celsius, set in 2010. Iraq and Qatar also saw record high temperatures during last March at 43.8 and 40 degrees Celsius respectively. Iraq beat its old record of 42.4 degrees Celsius in 2010 and Qatar last saw its highest temperature of March in 1998 at 39 degrees Celsius. These types of heat events are expected to become more frequent and severe as the world continues to warm due to human emissions of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels. As the overall climate gets warmer, it becomes easier to set warm temperature extremes, even in months that didn't use to see such hot and potentially deadly weather. As parts of Asia roast in springtime heat, the eastern US is in a very cold pattern. At the very least, these new records are a reminder that - global warming is on the rise- when one part of the world is exceptionally cool, another part must be exceptionally hot. Cerveny says these pronounced variations suggest the weather pattern will remain interesting for potential all-time records.

Heatwave sweeps South Asia, Pakistan hottest at 45.5 degrees

Bollywood lyricist-scriptwriter Javed Akhtar slammed Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi after the latter raked up a controversy with his ‘Indian-occupied-Kashmir’ comment.&nbsp;

An angry Akhtar took to Twitter to criticise Afridi and said that if he really wants to see a peaceful Kashmir, he should ask the Pakistani administration to stop supporting terrorist activities in the Valley.

In a tweet, he wrote: “Dear Afridi, since you want to see a peaceful JK sans any human rights violations could you please see to it that pak terrorists stop infiltrations n pak army stops supporting the separatists by closing down the training camps. It will greatly help in solving the problem.”

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Dear Mr Afridi , since you want to see a peaceful JK sans any human rights violations could you please see to it that pak terrorists stop infiltrations n pak army stops supporting the separatists by closing down the training camps . It will greatly help in solving the problem
— Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Javedakhtarjadu/status/981260181773275136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This comes after Afridi tweeted a controversial stance on the state of Kashmir in India. He tweeted: “Appalling and worrisome situation ongoing in the Indian Occupied Kashmir. Innocents being shot down by oppressive regime to clamp voice of self-determination & independence. Wonder where is the @UN & other int bodies & why aren't they making efforts to stop this bloodshed?”

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Appalling and worrisome situation ongoing in the Indian Occupied Kashmir.Innocents being shot down by oppressive regime to clamp voice of self determination & independence. Wonder where is the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> & other int bodies & why aren't they making efforts to stop this bloodshed?
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/981084208369192961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Soon after Afridi’s comment, many criticised the cricketer. Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir was quoted: “Media called me for reaction on @SAfridiOfficial tweet on OUR Kashmir & @UN. What’s there to say? Afridi is only looking for @UN which in his retarded dictionary means “UNDER NINETEEN” his age bracket. Media can relax, @SAfridiOfficial is celebrating a dismissal off a no- ball!!!.”

In a major turn of events, the US designated the Milli Muslim League (MML), the political front of Pakistan-based Mumbai attack mastermind-led Jamaat-ud Dawa, as a foreign terrorist organisation. Thus, &nbsp;seven members of the MML's central leadership body have been designated as foreign terrorists. The US also added Tehreek-e-Azadi-e-Kashmir (TAJK) to the list of terrorist groups. TAJK is said to be a front of the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), which according to the Trump administration, continues to operate freely inside Pakistan.

Also, LeT was responsible for the November 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai that killed 166 people, including six Americans.

'Worrisome situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir with innocent being shot down by oppressive regime,' Afridi had tweeted

Bollywood lyricist-scriptwriter Javed Akhtar slammed Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi after the latter raked up a controversy with his ‘Indian-occupied-Kashmir’ comment. An angry Akhtar took to Twitter to criticise Afridi and said that if he really wants to see a peaceful Kashmir, he should ask the Pakistani administration to stop supporting terrorist activities in the Valley. In a tweet, he wrote: “Dear Afridi, since you want to see a peaceful JK sans any human rights violations could you please see to it that pak terrorists stop infiltrations n pak army stops supporting the separatists by closing down the training camps. It will greatly help in solving the problem.” Dear Mr Afridi , since you want to see a peaceful JK sans any human rights violations could you please see to it that pak terrorists stop infiltrations n pak army stops supporting the separatists by closing down the training camps . It will greatly help in solving the problem — Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) April 3, 2018 × This comes after Afridi tweeted a controversial stance on the state of Kashmir in India. He tweeted: “Appalling and worrisome situation ongoing in the Indian Occupied Kashmir. Innocents being shot down by oppressive regime to clamp voice of self-determination & independence. Wonder where is the @UN & other int bodies & why aren't they making efforts to stop this bloodshed?” Appalling and worrisome situation ongoing in the Indian Occupied Kashmir.Innocents being shot down by oppressive regime to clamp voice of self determination & independence. Wonder where is the @UN & other int bodies & why aren't they making efforts to stop this bloodshed? — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) April 3, 2018 × Soon after Afridi’s comment, many criticised the cricketer. Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir was quoted: “Media called me for reaction on @SAfridiOfficial tweet on OUR Kashmir & @UN. What’s there to say? Afridi is only looking for @UN which in his retarded dictionary means “UNDER NINETEEN” his age bracket. Media can relax, @SAfridiOfficial is celebrating a dismissal off a no- ball!!!.” In a major turn of events, the US designated the Milli Muslim League (MML), the political front of Pakistan-based Mumbai attack mastermind-led Jamaat-ud Dawa, as a foreign terrorist organisation. Thus, seven members of the MML's central leadership body have been designated as foreign terrorists. The US also added Tehreek-e-Azadi-e-Kashmir (TAJK) to the list of terrorist groups. TAJK is said to be a front of the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), which according to the Trump administration, continues to operate freely inside Pakistan. Also, LeT was responsible for the November 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai that killed 166 people, including six Americans.

Javed Akhtar slams Shahid Afridi on 'Indian-occupied Kashmir' comment

Pakistan defeated West Indies by 82 runs in the second T20 match of a three-match series to claim a series win at National Stadium, Karachi on Monday.

Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat and playing first, Pakistan scored 205 runs. Opener Babar Azam missed a maiden hundred by three runs but displayed a magnificent batting which includes 13 fours and a six in his 58-ball innings, reaching 97 not out to guide Pakistan to their highest-ever T20 total of 205-3 in 20 overs.

For his outstanding knock, Babar was given the​​​​&nbsp;'man of the match' award.

Mohammad Amir took 3-22 as the West Indies were dismissed for 123 in 19.2 overs, faring much better than their 60 all out in the first match which they lost by 143 runs -- the second-biggest margin of defeat in T20I.

The West Indies showed more resistance on Monday as Chadwick Walton hit two sixes and four boundaries during his 29-ball 40 and added 39 for the second wicket with the experienced Marlon Samuels who made 12.

But Shadab (2-23) dismissed both in the space of seven runs to check the West Indian chase before Talat mopped up the tail with 2-12.

"I didn't get the hundred because of my own fault," said Babar. "The team's plan for me was to bat out the 20 overs."

West Indian skipper Jason Mohammed was left to rue another poor show.&nbsp;

"It was another disappointing performance," said Mohammed. "We tried to set aggressive fields to try and get early wickets. It's difficult at times. Hopefully, we can go home with a victory."

This is Pakistan's seventh successive T20 series win, all under Sarfraz Ahmed's captaincy since September 2016.

Sarfraz Ahmed-led Pakistani team lead the series by 2-0 and the final match is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at National Stadium, Karachi.

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&nbsp;

Pakistan defeated West Indies by 82 runs in the second T20 match of a three-match series

Pakistan defeated West Indies by 82 runs in the second T20 match of a three-match series to claim a series win at National Stadium, Karachi on Monday. Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat and playing first, Pakistan scored 205 runs. Opener Babar Azam missed a maiden hundred by three runs but displayed a magnificent batting which includes 13 fours and a six in his 58-ball innings, reaching 97 not out to guide Pakistan to their highest-ever T20 total of 205-3 in 20 overs. For his outstanding knock, Babar was given the 'man of the match' award. Mohammad Amir took 3-22 as the West Indies were dismissed for 123 in 19.2 overs, faring much better than their 60 all out in the first match which they lost by 143 runs -- the second-biggest margin of defeat in T20I. The West Indies showed more resistance on Monday as Chadwick Walton hit two sixes and four boundaries during his 29-ball 40 and added 39 for the second wicket with the experienced Marlon Samuels who made 12. But Shadab (2-23) dismissed both in the space of seven runs to check the West Indian chase before Talat mopped up the tail with 2-12. "I didn't get the hundred because of my own fault," said Babar. "The team's plan for me was to bat out the 20 overs." West Indian skipper Jason Mohammed was left to rue another poor show. "It was another disappointing performance," said Mohammed. "We tried to set aggressive fields to try and get early wickets. It's difficult at times. Hopefully, we can go home with a victory." This is Pakistan's seventh successive T20 series win, all under Sarfraz Ahmed's captaincy since September 2016. Sarfraz Ahmed-led Pakistani team lead the series by 2-0 and the final match is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at National Stadium, Karachi. “I missed a few balls which played a role in missing the century” - Babar Azam. #PAKvWI 2nd T20I REACTION ⬇️https://t.co/YXBIEik2g2 pic.twitter.com/Se2VzWsrBN — ICC (@ICC) April 3, 2018 ×

Pakistan beat West Indies in 2nd T20 to claim series victory

Former Pakistan&nbsp;Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam on Tuesday were granted an exemption from appearing before the court in the corruption hearing against them, as their flight could not take off from Lahore due to harsh weather.

As the hearing of the Avenfield properties reference went under way, Nawaz's counsel Khawaja Haris informed Judge Mohammad Bashir the former premier's flight was not allowed to take off from Lahore owing to the weather.&nbsp;

The judge approved the request but directed Nawaz's son-in-law MNA Capt (retd) Safdar to remain in court.&nbsp;

The case was filed by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on the Supreme Court's ruling, was in refence to Sharif's family's London apartments.&nbsp;

Sharif, his sons Hasan and Hussain, daughter Maryam and son-in-law Capt (retd) Mohammad Safdar are facing multiple corruption references in the accountability court.

The corruption references, filed against the Sharif family, pertain to the Al-Azizia Steel Mills and Hill Metal Establishment, offshore companies including Flagship Investment Ltd, and Avenfield properties of London.

Nawaz's counsel resumed cross-examining the primary witness, Wajid Zia, today.&nbsp;

Zia headed the Panama case joint investigation team (JIT) which probed the Sharif family assets last year. He is being cross-examined since the last few hearings after having recorded his statement earlier over several weeks.

During Monday's hearing, pointing to Zia's 'u-turns' in his statements, Haris pleaded the court to record the proceedings of the case. The judge informally agreed to the notion.

The Pakistan Supreme Court had, on July 28, disqualified Sharif from holding the office of the prime minister and asked the National Accountability Bureau to file references against the Sharif family in connection with corruption cases against them.

On the orders of the country's Supreme Court, a JIT was formed last year to probe the allegations on the Sharif family.

As the hearing of the Avenfield properties reference went under way, Nawaz's counsel Khawaja Haris informed Judge Mohammad Bashir the former premier's flight was not allowed to take off from Lahore owing to the weather

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam on Tuesday were granted an exemption from appearing before the court in the corruption hearing against them, as their flight could not take off from Lahore due to harsh weather. As the hearing of the Avenfield properties reference went under way, Nawaz's counsel Khawaja Haris informed Judge Mohammad Bashir the former premier's flight was not allowed to take off from Lahore owing to the weather. The judge approved the request but directed Nawaz's son-in-law MNA Capt (retd) Safdar to remain in court. The case was filed by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on the Supreme Court's ruling, was in refence to Sharif's family's London apartments. Sharif, his sons Hasan and Hussain, daughter Maryam and son-in-law Capt (retd) Mohammad Safdar are facing multiple corruption references in the accountability court. The corruption references, filed against the Sharif family, pertain to the Al-Azizia Steel Mills and Hill Metal Establishment, offshore companies including Flagship Investment Ltd, and Avenfield properties of London. Nawaz's counsel resumed cross-examining the primary witness, Wajid Zia, today. Zia headed the Panama case joint investigation team (JIT) which probed the Sharif family assets last year. He is being cross-examined since the last few hearings after having recorded his statement earlier over several weeks. During Monday's hearing, pointing to Zia's 'u-turns' in his statements, Haris pleaded the court to record the proceedings of the case. The judge informally agreed to the notion. The Pakistan Supreme Court had, on July 28, disqualified Sharif from holding the office of the prime minister and asked the National Accountability Bureau to file references against the Sharif family in connection with corruption cases against them. On the orders of the country's Supreme Court, a JIT was formed last year to probe the allegations on the Sharif family.

Nawaz, daughter Maryam exempted from appearing in court in corruption case

A Pakistani woman and two others were acquitted by the Supreme Court today, 20 years after a triple murder case was registered against them.

In 1998, Asma Nawab was alleged to have orchestrated the murder of her parents and brother over a love marriage, Geo TV reported.

In 1999, the sessions court had ordered double death sentences for Asma, Farhan Khan and Javed Ahmed Siddiqui.

The Sindh High Court had rejected their appeal against the death sentence in 2015 and the appeal against that order was eventually taken up by the Supreme Court.

Hearing the case at apex court's Karachi Registry, the bench, headed by Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, accepted their appeals, nullified their sentences and ordered their immediate release, the channel said.

The court ruled that there was no concrete evidence against the suspects, and the evidence presented before the court had several loopholes. The court also found that the weapons recovered had no connection to the case, it added.

Farhan's fingerprints were taken two days after his arrest, the court ruled, adding that the prosecution failed to prove its allegations.

During the court proceedings, Justice Khosa remarked that police arrests suspects but fails to present evidence against them before courts. The suspects are released for lack of evidence but it is said courts acquit suspects, he asserted.

Justice Khosa said that suspects have been facing jail time since last 20 years without any evidence.

Asma was the only woman facing the death sentence in Sindh province.

In 1998, Asma Nawab was alleged to have orchestrated the murder of her parents and brother over a love marriage

A Pakistani woman and two others were acquitted by the Supreme Court today, 20 years after a triple murder case was registered against them. In 1998, Asma Nawab was alleged to have orchestrated the murder of her parents and brother over a love marriage, Geo TV reported. In 1999, the sessions court had ordered double death sentences for Asma, Farhan Khan and Javed Ahmed Siddiqui. The Sindh High Court had rejected their appeal against the death sentence in 2015 and the appeal against that order was eventually taken up by the Supreme Court. Hearing the case at apex court's Karachi Registry, the bench, headed by Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, accepted their appeals, nullified their sentences and ordered their immediate release, the channel said. The court ruled that there was no concrete evidence against the suspects, and the evidence presented before the court had several loopholes. The court also found that the weapons recovered had no connection to the case, it added. Farhan's fingerprints were taken two days after his arrest, the court ruled, adding that the prosecution failed to prove its allegations. During the court proceedings, Justice Khosa remarked that police arrests suspects but fails to present evidence against them before courts. The suspects are released for lack of evidence but it is said courts acquit suspects, he asserted. Justice Khosa said that suspects have been facing jail time since last 20 years without any evidence. Asma was the only woman facing the death sentence in Sindh province.

Pakistan: SC acquits woman, 2 others in murder case after 20 years

The 20-year-old army jawan had told his parents that he will be coming home in two days. Tomorrow, they will receive the body of Sepoy Shubham Suryakant Mustapure at his village Konerwadi in Parbhani district of Maharashtra, for last rites.

Mustapure, who joined the Army two years ago, was killed as Pakistani troops fired mortar bombs at forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today.

A pall of gloom has descended on the village as people await the arrival of his body, for the last rites to be performed tomorrow.

Mustapure will be cremated with military honours at 4 pm tomorrow, an official said. The soldier’s body is expected to land at Aurangabad airport at 11 am and will be taken to Konerwadi by road, he added.

“Shubham recently called his parents and informed them he will be coming home in two days. Now, his body, wrapped in tricolour, will reach here,” a relative of the soldier said.

The jawan, who was a bachelor, is survived by parents and grandparents and two younger brothers. While one brother studies in Gangakhed in Parbhani district, another studies at Ahmedpur in Latur district, the kin said.

The soldier’s father owns one and a half acres of farm and also supplements his income through tailoring.

When Shubham was recruited in the Army two years ago, after completing his 12th class, he had treated the entire village to a grand feast, the relative said.

Sepoy Shubham Suryakant Mustapure, who joined the Army two years ago, was killed as Pakistani troops fired mortar bombs at forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today.

The 20-year-old army jawan had told his parents that he will be coming home in two days. Tomorrow, they will receive the body of Sepoy Shubham Suryakant Mustapure at his village Konerwadi in Parbhani district of Maharashtra, for last rites. Mustapure, who joined the Army two years ago, was killed as Pakistani troops fired mortar bombs at forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir today. A pall of gloom has descended on the village as people await the arrival of his body, for the last rites to be performed tomorrow. Mustapure will be cremated with military honours at 4 pm tomorrow, an official said. The soldier’s body is expected to land at Aurangabad airport at 11 am and will be taken to Konerwadi by road, he added. “Shubham recently called his parents and informed them he will be coming home in two days. Now, his body, wrapped in tricolour, will reach here,” a relative of the soldier said. The jawan, who was a bachelor, is survived by parents and grandparents and two younger brothers. While one brother studies in Gangakhed in Parbhani district, another studies at Ahmedpur in Latur district, the kin said. The soldier’s father owns one and a half acres of farm and also supplements his income through tailoring. When Shubham was recruited in the Army two years ago, after completing his 12th class, he had treated the entire village to a grand feast, the relative said.

Soldier killed in Pakistan shelling had told parents he would return

In a major move ahead of the general elections in Pakistan, the US today designated Milli Muslim League (MML), the political front of Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud Dawa, as a foreign terrorist organization.

In a simultaneous move, seven members of MML central leadership body have been designated as foreign terrorist. The US also added Tehreek-e-Azadi-e-Kashmir (TAJK) to the list of terrorist groups. TAJK is said to be a front of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which according to the

Trump administration, continues to operate freely inside Pakistan.

The move comes a day after the Election Commission of Pakistan asked the MML to produce a clearance certificate by the interior ministry for its registration as a political party.

The election commission had earlier rejected the MML's application for registration as a political party after the interior ministry objected to its ties to banned militant outfits.

The State Department said the move was aimed at denying the LeT the resources it needs to plan and carry out further terrorist attacks.

"Both MML and TAJK are LeT fronts created to circumvent the sanctions against it (LeT)...Today's amendments take aim at LeT's efforts to circumvent sanctions and deceive the public about its true character," said Nathan A Sales, Coordinator for Counterterrorism at the Department of State.

"Make no mistake: whatever LeT chooses to call itself, it remains a violent terrorist group. The US supports all efforts to ensure that LeT does not have a political voice until it gives up violence as a tool of influence," Sales said.

Among other consequences of the designations, LeT's property and interests in property subject to US jurisdiction are blocked, and US persons are generally prohibited from engaging in any transactions with the group.

"LeT continues to operate freely within Pakistan, holding public rallies, raising funds, and plotting and training for terrorist attacks," the State Department said.

The LeT was designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group on December 26, 2001. Its leader, Saeed, is also designated as an SDGT.

To avoid sanctions, LeT has repeatedly changed its name over the years, the State Department alleged.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p4HR4fiZsSE" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

In January 2017, LeT began operating under the name TAJK. Under this name, the LeT has engaged in inciting terrorism, as well as recruiting and fundraising.

In August 2017, Saeed created the MML to serve as a political front for the group.

"LeT members make up MML's leadership and the so-called party openly displays Saeed's likeness in its election banners and literature," the State Department said.

Concurrently with today's State Department actions, the US Department of the Treasury designated seven members of the MML central leadership body for acting for on behalf of the LeT: Saifullah Khalid (president), Muzammil Iqbal Hashimi (vice president), Muhammad Harris Dar (Joint Secretary), Tabish Qayyuum (Information Secretary), Fayyaz Ahmad (General Secretary), Faisal Nadeem (Broadcast and Publications Secretary), and Muhammad Ehsan (Finance Secretary).

Today's actions notify the US public and the international community that TAJK and MML are aliases of the LeT. Terrorism designations expose and isolate organizations and individuals, and deny them access to the US financial system. Moreover, designations can assist the law enforcement activities of US agencies and other governments.

"Treasury is targeting the MML and a group of seven global terrorists who are complicit in LeT's attempts to undermine Pakistan's political process," said Treasury Under Secretary Sigal Mandelker, adding that the MML is not a recognized political party and it relies on the leadership of the LeT for guidance and direction.

"We will continue to target terrorist organizations like LeT, even when they attempt to cloak themselves as political parties or hide their extremism behind other facades," Mandelker said. He also cautioned people against working with the MML, including providing financial donations, saying they should "think twice" about doing so or risk exposure to US sanctions.

President of the MML, Khalid is also the head of LeT's Peshawar headquarters and served on Jamaat-ud Dawa (JuD)'s Coordination Committee for Central Punjab Province. The JuD was designated by the Department of State as an alias of LeT pursuant April 2016 and was added to the United Nations Sanctions list as an alias of the LeT in December 2008.

The JuD is believed to be the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans. It was declared as an FTO by the US in June 2014.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

President of the MML, Khalid is also the head of LeT's Peshawar headquarters and served on Jamaat-ud Dawa (JuD)'s Coordination Committee for Central Punjab Province

In a major move ahead of the general elections in Pakistan, the US today designated Milli Muslim League (MML), the political front of Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud Dawa, as a foreign terrorist organization. In a simultaneous move, seven members of MML central leadership body have been designated as foreign terrorist. The US also added Tehreek-e-Azadi-e-Kashmir (TAJK) to the list of terrorist groups. TAJK is said to be a front of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which according to the Trump administration, continues to operate freely inside Pakistan. The move comes a day after the Election Commission of Pakistan asked the MML to produce a clearance certificate by the interior ministry for its registration as a political party. The election commission had earlier rejected the MML's application for registration as a political party after the interior ministry objected to its ties to banned militant outfits. The State Department said the move was aimed at denying the LeT the resources it needs to plan and carry out further terrorist attacks. "Both MML and TAJK are LeT fronts created to circumvent the sanctions against it (LeT)...Today's amendments take aim at LeT's efforts to circumvent sanctions and deceive the public about its true character," said Nathan A Sales, Coordinator for Counterterrorism at the Department of State. "Make no mistake: whatever LeT chooses to call itself, it remains a violent terrorist group. The US supports all efforts to ensure that LeT does not have a political voice until it gives up violence as a tool of influence," Sales said. Among other consequences of the designations, LeT's property and interests in property subject to US jurisdiction are blocked, and US persons are generally prohibited from engaging in any transactions with the group. "LeT continues to operate freely within Pakistan, holding public rallies, raising funds, and plotting and training for terrorist attacks," the State Department said. The LeT was designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group on December 26, 2001. Its leader, Saeed, is also designated as an SDGT. To avoid sanctions, LeT has repeatedly changed its name over the years, the State Department alleged. In January 2017, LeT began operating under the name TAJK. Under this name, the LeT has engaged in inciting terrorism, as well as recruiting and fundraising. In August 2017, Saeed created the MML to serve as a political front for the group. "LeT members make up MML's leadership and the so-called party openly displays Saeed's likeness in its election banners and literature," the State Department said. Concurrently with today's State Department actions, the US Department of the Treasury designated seven members of the MML central leadership body for acting for on behalf of the LeT: Saifullah Khalid (president), Muzammil Iqbal Hashimi (vice president), Muhammad Harris Dar (Joint Secretary), Tabish Qayyuum (Information Secretary), Fayyaz Ahmad (General Secretary), Faisal Nadeem (Broadcast and Publications Secretary), and Muhammad Ehsan (Finance Secretary). Today's actions notify the US public and the international community that TAJK and MML are aliases of the LeT. Terrorism designations expose and isolate organizations and individuals, and deny them access to the US financial system. Moreover, designations can assist the law enforcement activities of US agencies and other governments. "Treasury is targeting the MML and a group of seven global terrorists who are complicit in LeT's attempts to undermine Pakistan's political process," said Treasury Under Secretary Sigal Mandelker, adding that the MML is not a recognized political party and it relies on the leadership of the LeT for guidance and direction. "We will continue to target terrorist organizations like LeT, even when they attempt to cloak themselves as political parties or hide their extremism behind other facades," Mandelker said. He also cautioned people against working with the MML, including providing financial donations, saying they should "think twice" about doing so or risk exposure to US sanctions. President of the MML, Khalid is also the head of LeT's Peshawar headquarters and served on Jamaat-ud Dawa (JuD)'s Coordination Committee for Central Punjab Province. The JuD was designated by the Department of State as an alias of LeT pursuant April 2016 and was added to the United Nations Sanctions list as an alias of the LeT in December 2008. The JuD is believed to be the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans. It was declared as an FTO by the US in June 2014.

US designates Hafiz Saeed's Milli Muslim League as terrorist outfit

Pakistan is still "smarting under" the 1971 defeat at the hands of India and the BSF is prepared both "defensively and offensively" to deal with infiltration and unprovoked firing incidents on the border, the force's chief said.

Border Security Force Director General (DG) K K Sharma said in an interview that despite the border guarding force wreaking "more than double" the quantum of losses across the India-Pakistan International Border (IB) in Jammu sector, such incidents, which claim lives of civilians, soldiers and destroy property, have not abated.

"I cannot say how and when the activity of unprovoked firings and ceasefire violations (from across the border) will start but we are prepared to face any eventuality.

"If it is a major offensive, we are more than prepared and we are prepared defensively and we are prepared offensively," the BSF chief said.

Sharma said, "I would like to make one thing clear that we 'never' initiate such violations and it is the other side which starts as a result of which we have to retaliate and react."

The BSF DG said the sole aim of these unprovoked firing incidents on the border is to "push" on terrorists into India.

While India wants to maintain peace and does not want to create any problems on the border, it is their (Pakistan's) state policy to "destabilise our country", the 1982-batch IPS officer of the Rajasthan cadre said.

"They (Pakistan) are still smarting under the defeat of 1971 which led to the creation of Bangladesh and the ISI (Pakistan intelligence agency) was created with the sole objective of dividing India.

"Their first attempt was in Khalistan and they failed. Now, they are trying it in Kashmir and they will fail," Sharma said.

The BSF had launched three special operations 'Rustam' (2016), 'Arjun' (2017) and 'Bheem' this year, as part of its 'much-tod jawab' (befitting reply) strategy on the border and to mount at least "three to four times" extra shelling on the Pakistani side and cause heavy damage to men and assets across the border.

According to data of the central security agencies, the BSF retaliation, during the operation 'Bheem' launched between January 3-24, claimed the lives of eight-ten Pakistan Rangers personnel, injured about 15-16 while about 24 civilians were killed and 65 others injured.

In comparison, three BSF personnel were killed, 17 were injured while eight civilians died and 55 were injured during the same time period due to unprovoked firing and shelling by the Pakistan side.

"But, when we react, we do that in a very befitting manner and we give them a very solid reply because since my taking over (in February 2016) three major engagements have taken place with Pakistan.

"In all the three, we have come on top as there has been more damage in terms of men, material (on the other side). So, consequently, the other side should abstain and restrain from any such activity in future but unfortunately it is their state policy to keep the issue of Jammu and Kashmir alive," Sharma said.

"Terrorists are coming from the Line of Control in the last years and there has not been any infiltration from the IB side. But, they keep on trying on the IB side also," he said.

The BSF DG said the sole aim of these unprovoked firing incidents on the border is to 'push' in terrorists into India.

Pakistan is still "smarting under" the 1971 defeat at the hands of India and the BSF is prepared both "defensively and offensively" to deal with infiltration and unprovoked firing incidents on the border, the force's chief said. Border Security Force Director General (DG) K K Sharma said in an interview that despite the border guarding force wreaking "more than double" the quantum of losses across the India-Pakistan International Border (IB) in Jammu sector, such incidents, which claim lives of civilians, soldiers and destroy property, have not abated. "I cannot say how and when the activity of unprovoked firings and ceasefire violations (from across the border) will start but we are prepared to face any eventuality. "If it is a major offensive, we are more than prepared and we are prepared defensively and we are prepared offensively," the BSF chief said. Sharma said, "I would like to make one thing clear that we 'never' initiate such violations and it is the other side which starts as a result of which we have to retaliate and react." The BSF DG said the sole aim of these unprovoked firing incidents on the border is to "push" on terrorists into India. While India wants to maintain peace and does not want to create any problems on the border, it is their (Pakistan's) state policy to "destabilise our country", the 1982-batch IPS officer of the Rajasthan cadre said. "They (Pakistan) are still smarting under the defeat of 1971 which led to the creation of Bangladesh and the ISI (Pakistan intelligence agency) was created with the sole objective of dividing India. "Their first attempt was in Khalistan and they failed. Now, they are trying it in Kashmir and they will fail," Sharma said. The BSF had launched three special operations 'Rustam' (2016), 'Arjun' (2017) and 'Bheem' this year, as part of its 'much-tod jawab' (befitting reply) strategy on the border and to mount at least "three to four times" extra shelling on the Pakistani side and cause heavy damage to men and assets across the border. According to data of the central security agencies, the BSF retaliation, during the operation 'Bheem' launched between January 3-24, claimed the lives of eight-ten Pakistan Rangers personnel, injured about 15-16 while about 24 civilians were killed and 65 others injured. In comparison, three BSF personnel were killed, 17 were injured while eight civilians died and 55 were injured during the same time period due to unprovoked firing and shelling by the Pakistan side. "But, when we react, we do that in a very befitting manner and we give them a very solid reply because since my taking over (in February 2016) three major engagements have taken place with Pakistan. "In all the three, we have come on top as there has been more damage in terms of men, material (on the other side). So, consequently, the other side should abstain and restrain from any such activity in future but unfortunately it is their state policy to keep the issue of Jammu and Kashmir alive," Sharma said. "Terrorists are coming from the Line of Control in the last years and there has not been any infiltration from the IB side. But, they keep on trying on the IB side also," he said.

Pakistan still feels the pain of 1971 defeat: BSF DG on trouble in Kashmir

Nine people, including four of a family from the minority Christian community in Pakistan, were killed after gunmen carried out two separate attacks in Quetta city in the south-western Balochistan province, police said.

Both the attacks took place yesterday, they said.

The ISIS claimed responsibility for the first attack in which unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire on a rickshaw in which a Christian family was travelling on Quetta's Shah Zaman road.

All four died on the spot while a woman was injured and rushed to a hospital, Provincial Police Chief Moazzam Jah Ansari said, adding that her father and three cousins were killed in the firing.

The attack on the Christians, he said, appeared to be a targeted attack.

"We are investigating whether it was a targeted attack due to personal enmity or sectarian reasons," he said.

The Christians on Sunday had celebrated Easter in Pakistan and the family had come to celebrate with their relatives from Lahore.

Shortly after the attack on the Christian family in the evening, two groups clashed with each other in Quetta's Qambrani road leaving five people dead and nine others injured.

The clash erupted allegedly after members of the minority Shia Muslim Hazara community held protests in Quetta to protest the targeted killing of a Hazara man on Sunday.

Hazara community members with their distinctive looks have come under several terror attacks in recent years in Baluchistan.

The Islamic State group claimed the attack on the Christians in a statement carried by its Aamaq news agency. It was unclear who was behind the other attack.

All four died on the spot while a woman was injured and rushed to a hospital

Nine people, including four of a family from the minority Christian community in Pakistan, were killed after gunmen carried out two separate attacks in Quetta city in the south-western Balochistan province, police said. Both the attacks took place yesterday, they said. The ISIS claimed responsibility for the first attack in which unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire on a rickshaw in which a Christian family was travelling on Quetta's Shah Zaman road. All four died on the spot while a woman was injured and rushed to a hospital, Provincial Police Chief Moazzam Jah Ansari said, adding that her father and three cousins were killed in the firing. The attack on the Christians, he said, appeared to be a targeted attack. "We are investigating whether it was a targeted attack due to personal enmity or sectarian reasons," he said. The Christians on Sunday had celebrated Easter in Pakistan and the family had come to celebrate with their relatives from Lahore. Shortly after the attack on the Christian family in the evening, two groups clashed with each other in Quetta's Qambrani road leaving five people dead and nine others injured. The clash erupted allegedly after members of the minority Shia Muslim Hazara community held protests in Quetta to protest the targeted killing of a Hazara man on Sunday. Hazara community members with their distinctive looks have come under several terror attacks in recent years in Baluchistan. The Islamic State group claimed the attack on the Christians in a statement carried by its Aamaq news agency. It was unclear who was behind the other attack.

Pakistan: Gunmen kill 9 in twin attacks

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founder Altaf Hussain has asked Pakistan to give Mohajirs their right of a separate province.

Hussain also warned Pakistan that dejecting Mohajirs'&nbspjust demand would lead to the creation of a separate homeland under duress. He was telephonically addressing MQM's 34th Foundation Day at Frankfurt, Germany from London.

"Discrimination against Mohajirs is widespread in every section of Pakistan. They are facing genocide and those who are alive are subject to humiliation and arbitrary arrests without any lawful charge or procedure. The ethnic majority and the establishment are mastermind of the discrimination and repression," Hussain said.

The MQM leader said that in order to order to keep Pakistan united Mohajirs should be given their right for a separate Mohajir province as their population has already exceeded 70 million."This is the last option to save the country and failing which, the things would become devastating and out of his control as 70 million Mohajirs won't then listen to me and take the course of actions in their own hands. It is a blessing that Mohajirs are till date committed to my command and listen to my appeals and advice," Hussain asserted.

In his preliminary address as usual, he urged upon the audiences to develop a habit of book reading to analyse things and acquire knowledge. Hussain asserted that he himself is an example as his critics flay his views and dare not to challenge him with logic and the fact is that none of his critic could yet held him wrong by logic or argument.

He said many lies are spread in Pakistan in order to conceal the truth. "Lies are presented as truth such as the country's elite claims that Allama Iqbal was the thinker of Pakistan, which is the biggest lie of history. There is no proof or record of Iqbal as a thinker of Pakistan. It is the irony that Pakistan commemorates Iqbal's day while he does not deserve it as he was not the thinker of Pakistan," Hussain said.

He argued: How could Iqbal be the thinker of Pakistan while the Lahore resolution was presented in Lahore in 1940 and Iqbal had died in 1938? The MQM founder said that the sister of the founder of Pakistan Mr. M. A. Jinnah, Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, actually deserves the title.

"Fatima Jinnah struggled for Pakistan shoulder to shoulder with her brother, but was declared traitor by a Military establishment and military dictator General Ayub Khan in Pakistan," the MQM leader said.

He reminded that a few days ago on March 23rd, Pakistan day was commemorated in memory of Objective resolution while the fact is that there was no such resolution but a simple Lahore resolution, which has fraudulently been changed into the Pakistan Resolution. "The Lahore resolution is still engraved on the wall of a minaret of Pakistan in Lahore and there is no term for Pakistan Resolution in that inscription," Hussain said.

He said that on seeing repression and discrimination widespread against Mohajirs, he dared to erect the APMSO in Karachi University in 1978 but the hooligans of Jamat-e Islami tortured and expelled us from the varsity and then he dared to MQM on March 18, 1984, and held its first assembly at Nishtar Park on August 18, 1986.

"The military establishment had since then become a direct opponent of the MQM and Mohajirs as they fear that if the Mohajirs continue to be united then they would soon achieve their goals," Hussain said.

He warned the establishment and the ruling elite of Pakistan that the only way ahead to save Pakistan is to end the discrimination against Mohajirs and let them have their separate Mohajir Province or else the situation would be so dreadful and the Mohajirs would be constrained to look for their separate, independent and sovereign state.

He reminded the people of Pakistan that the Mohajirs are the creators of Pakistan and they laid millions of lives in sacrifice."They fought the battle of Pakistan in Uttar Pradesh, Central Provinces, and Bihar in India and made a country for the slaves of British Empire in North West of the sub-continent, which is now Pakistan. The corrupt military generals and feuds conspired against the Mohajirs and occupied the country on gun point. Mohajirs (Biharis) who again fought for Pakistan in 1971 have now been discarded and they are forced to spend their lives in camps of Red Cross in Bangladesh."

The MQM chief said that on seeing the atrocities, repression, and genocide of Mohajirs, he slammed the ruling feudal elite and military establishment and then the military generals and feuds of the country joined hands to punish the MQM.

"They held the MQM headquarters under siege and locked it down till date. Embargo was ordered and Pakistani media has been restricted on gun pint not to carry any of his picture or speech," Hussain said.

He said that the military establishment and feudal-based governments in Pakistan have so far executed 22000 innocent Mohajirs in an extra-judicial spree of chase and hunt. "Similar tactic is being applied in FATA where the local tribal population was forced to evacuate their homes and live as internally displaced persons (IDPs) on the mercy of the military establishment and the tyrant demonic feudal elites."

Hussain repeated his long-standing demand that the atrocities against the minority folks in Pakistan including Baloch, Pashtoon and Mohajirs should now end and the Biharis in Red Cross camps in Bangladesh should be brought back home with respect.

He reiterated his resolve to keep struggling for the Mohajir Nation.The organisers of 34th Foundation day in Frankfurt, Afzal Hussain and his all-party affiliates were appreciated for their untiring efforts. The programme was largely attended by men, women and children.&nbsp

Hussain also warned Pakistan that dejecting Mohajirs' just demand would lead to creation of a separate homeland under duress

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founder Altaf Hussain has asked Pakistan to give Mohajirs their right of a separate province. Hussain also warned Pakistan that dejecting Mohajirs'&nbspjust demand would lead to the creation of a separate homeland under duress. He was telephonically addressing MQM's 34th Foundation Day at Frankfurt, Germany from London. "Discrimination against Mohajirs is widespread in every section of Pakistan. They are facing genocide and those who are alive are subject to humiliation and arbitrary arrests without any lawful charge or procedure. The ethnic majority and the establishment are mastermind of the discrimination and repression," Hussain said. The MQM leader said that in order to order to keep Pakistan united Mohajirs should be given their right for a separate Mohajir province as their population has already exceeded 70 million."This is the last option to save the country and failing which, the things would become devastating and out of his control as 70 million Mohajirs won't then listen to me and take the course of actions in their own hands. It is a blessing that Mohajirs are till date committed to my command and listen to my appeals and advice," Hussain asserted. In his preliminary address as usual, he urged upon the audiences to develop a habit of book reading to analyse things and acquire knowledge. Hussain asserted that he himself is an example as his critics flay his views and dare not to challenge him with logic and the fact is that none of his critic could yet held him wrong by logic or argument. He said many lies are spread in Pakistan in order to conceal the truth. "Lies are presented as truth such as the country's elite claims that Allama Iqbal was the thinker of Pakistan, which is the biggest lie of history. There is no proof or record of Iqbal as a thinker of Pakistan. It is the irony that Pakistan commemorates Iqbal's day while he does not deserve it as he was not the thinker of Pakistan," Hussain said. He argued: How could Iqbal be the thinker of Pakistan while the Lahore resolution was presented in Lahore in 1940 and Iqbal had died in 1938? The MQM founder said that the sister of the founder of Pakistan Mr. M. A. Jinnah, Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, actually deserves the title. "Fatima Jinnah struggled for Pakistan shoulder to shoulder with her brother, but was declared traitor by a Military establishment and military dictator General Ayub Khan in Pakistan," the MQM leader said. He reminded that a few days ago on March 23rd, Pakistan day was commemorated in memory of Objective resolution while the fact is that there was no such resolution but a simple Lahore resolution, which has fraudulently been changed into the Pakistan Resolution. "The Lahore resolution is still engraved on the wall of a minaret of Pakistan in Lahore and there is no term for Pakistan Resolution in that inscription," Hussain said. He said that on seeing repression and discrimination widespread against Mohajirs, he dared to erect the APMSO in Karachi University in 1978 but the hooligans of Jamat-e Islami tortured and expelled us from the varsity and then he dared to MQM on March 18, 1984, and held its first assembly at Nishtar Park on August 18, 1986. "The military establishment had since then become a direct opponent of the MQM and Mohajirs as they fear that if the Mohajirs continue to be united then they would soon achieve their goals," Hussain said. He warned the establishment and the ruling elite of Pakistan that the only way ahead to save Pakistan is to end the discrimination against Mohajirs and let them have their separate Mohajir Province or else the situation would be so dreadful and the Mohajirs would be constrained to look for their separate, independent and sovereign state. He reminded the people of Pakistan that the Mohajirs are the creators of Pakistan and they laid millions of lives in sacrifice."They fought the battle of Pakistan in Uttar Pradesh, Central Provinces, and Bihar in India and made a country for the slaves of British Empire in North West of the sub-continent, which is now Pakistan. The corrupt military generals and feuds conspired against the Mohajirs and occupied the country on gun point. Mohajirs (Biharis) who again fought for Pakistan in 1971 have now been discarded and they are forced to spend their lives in camps of Red Cross in Bangladesh." The MQM chief said that on seeing the atrocities, repression, and genocide of Mohajirs, he slammed the ruling feudal elite and military establishment and then the military generals and feuds of the country joined hands to punish the MQM. "They held the MQM headquarters under siege and locked it down till date. Embargo was ordered and Pakistani media has been restricted on gun pint not to carry any of his picture or speech," Hussain said. He said that the military establishment and feudal-based governments in Pakistan have so far executed 22000 innocent Mohajirs in an extra-judicial spree of chase and hunt. "Similar tactic is being applied in FATA where the local tribal population was forced to evacuate their homes and live as internally displaced persons (IDPs) on the mercy of the military establishment and the tyrant demonic feudal elites." Hussain repeated his long-standing demand that the atrocities against the minority folks in Pakistan including Baloch, Pashtoon and Mohajirs should now end and the Biharis in Red Cross camps in Bangladesh should be brought back home with respect. He reiterated his resolve to keep struggling for the Mohajir Nation.The organisers of 34th Foundation day in Frankfurt, Afzal Hussain and his all-party affiliates were appreciated for their untiring efforts. The programme was largely attended by men, women and children.

Give Mohajirs their right of province or repent: Altaf Hussain to Pakistan

Pakistan Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating 'any signs' of terrorism from the country.&nbsp;

Addressing a three-day International Counter-Terrorism Forum, Iqbal said, "It is our national resolve to cleanse any sign of terrorism to achieve the objective of peace and development."

Iqbal underlined that the military forces had put in efforts and made sacrifices while flushing out terror outfits from Pakistan, adding that terrorists had targeted everyone in the country, Geo News reported.

"We carried out Zarb-e-Azb like operations from our own resources to flush out terror outfits. Terrorists have targeted all sections of Pakistan. Terrorists have attacked mosques, churches, temples and shrines," the interior minister asserted.&nbsp;

Iqbal added that around 60,000 lives were lost in the country during the war against terrorism, but it did not deter the nation's resolve of combating terrorism. He also called for peace and development of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Stressing on the decades-old conflict in Afghanistan, Iqbal said, "Afghanistan was left at the mercy of terrorist networks. Due to this, Pakistan is still suffering from the consequences of the Afghan war."

The interior minister further said that the war on terror was not over yet and collaborative efforts were being taken to eliminate terrorism from Pakistan.&nbsp;

Iqbal underscored that Pakistan was considered one of the most dangerous places in the world back several years ago, but according to world publications, the country was being declared as one of the most emerging economies in the world.

Pakistan Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating 'any signs' of terrorism from the country

Pakistan Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating 'any signs' of terrorism from the country. Addressing a three-day International Counter-Terrorism Forum, Iqbal said, "It is our national resolve to cleanse any sign of terrorism to achieve the objective of peace and development." Iqbal underlined that the military forces had put in efforts and made sacrifices while flushing out terror outfits from Pakistan, adding that terrorists had targeted everyone in the country, Geo News reported. "We carried out Zarb-e-Azb like operations from our own resources to flush out terror outfits. Terrorists have targeted all sections of Pakistan. Terrorists have attacked mosques, churches, temples and shrines," the interior minister asserted. Iqbal added that around 60,000 lives were lost in the country during the war against terrorism, but it did not deter the nation's resolve of combating terrorism. He also called for peace and development of Pakistan. Stressing on the decades-old conflict in Afghanistan, Iqbal said, "Afghanistan was left at the mercy of terrorist networks. Due to this, Pakistan is still suffering from the consequences of the Afghan war." The interior minister further said that the war on terror was not over yet and collaborative efforts were being taken to eliminate terrorism from Pakistan. Iqbal underscored that Pakistan was considered one of the most dangerous places in the world back several years ago, but according to world publications, the country was being declared as one of the most emerging economies in the world.

Pakistan committed to combating terrorism: Pakistan Interior Minister

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has accused India of launching a "brutal crackdown" in Kashmir after terror groups suffered a major setback following killing of 13 terrorists in counter-insurgency operations.

Abbasi's statement late last night came after Indian security forces on Sunday gunned down 13 militants in three counter-insurgency operations that also claimed the lives of three Army jawans and four civilians in Anantnag and Shopian districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

"The brutal crackdown, including the despicable use of pellet guns on civilians who were protesting against the killing, is deplorable," Abbasi said.

He also asked the international community to urge India to allow access to fact-finding missions of the UN to Kashmir.

Yesterday's operations by the Indian security forces have rendered a severe blow to terror groups such as the Hizbul Mujahideen and the Lashker-e-Taiba.

Abbasi's statement late last night came after Indian security forces on Sunday gunned down 13 militants in three counter-insurgency operations

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has accused India of launching a "brutal crackdown" in Kashmir after terror groups suffered a major setback following killing of 13 terrorists in counter-insurgency operations. Abbasi's statement late last night came after Indian security forces on Sunday gunned down 13 militants in three counter-insurgency operations that also claimed the lives of three Army jawans and four civilians in Anantnag and Shopian districts of Jammu and Kashmir. "The brutal crackdown, including the despicable use of pellet guns on civilians who were protesting against the killing, is deplorable," Abbasi said. He also asked the international community to urge India to allow access to fact-finding missions of the UN to Kashmir. Yesterday's operations by the Indian security forces have rendered a severe blow to terror groups such as the Hizbul Mujahideen and the Lashker-e-Taiba.

UN fact-finding mission should visit Kashmir: Abbasi

Pakistan defeated West Indies by massive 143 runs in the first T20 match of three-match series in Karachi on Sunday.

West Indies' new T20 skipper Jason Mohammad won the toss and opt to bowl, playing first, Pakistan scored massive 203 runs in 20 overs.

In the second innings, Windies lost all the wickets at a low scoring total of 60 and suffered the embarrassing defeat.

Marlon Samuels scored the maximum 18 runs along with him Rayad Emrit (11) and Keemo Paul (10) reached double figures for the team and five batsmen could not score a single run.

In the absence of their regular skipper Carlos Brathwaite and stars like Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard, Windies could not face Pakistan's pace attack.

Pakistani bowlers bowling the West Indies out for their lowest-ever T20 total -- 60 runs -- in 13.4 overs.

Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz and Shoaib Malik got two wickets each.

"I think we were excellent today," said Ahmed. "We have an important match tomorrow and with another win we can seal the series win," said Pakistani skipper Sarfraz Ahmed.

Jason Mohammad blamed the defeat on poor batting. He said, "It was a tough day. We did well with the ball till the last two overs. It was a good wicket, but our shot execution wasn`t good."

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The second biggest win in T20I history! ?? Pakistan have bowled the West Indies out for 60 in Karachi. They win the first T20I by 143 runs!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvWI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvWI</a> Scorecard ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/7PjtsNpQVN">https://t.co/7PjtsNpQVN</a> <a href="https://t.co/QX8X1Ud6Aj">pic.twitter.com/QX8X1Ud6Aj</a>
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Pakistan defeated West Indies by massive 143 runs in the first T20 match of three-match series in Karachi on Sunday

Pakistan defeated West Indies by massive 143 runs in the first T20 match of three-match series in Karachi on Sunday. West Indies' new T20 skipper Jason Mohammad won the toss and opt to bowl, playing first, Pakistan scored massive 203 runs in 20 overs. In the second innings, Windies lost all the wickets at a low scoring total of 60 and suffered the embarrassing defeat. Marlon Samuels scored the maximum 18 runs along with him Rayad Emrit (11) and Keemo Paul (10) reached double figures for the team and five batsmen could not score a single run. In the absence of their regular skipper Carlos Brathwaite and stars like Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard, Windies could not face Pakistan's pace attack. Pakistani bowlers bowling the West Indies out for their lowest-ever T20 total -- 60 runs -- in 13.4 overs. Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz and Shoaib Malik got two wickets each. "I think we were excellent today," said Ahmed. "We have an important match tomorrow and with another win we can seal the series win," said Pakistani skipper Sarfraz Ahmed. Jason Mohammad blamed the defeat on poor batting. He said, "It was a tough day. We did well with the ball till the last two overs. It was a good wicket, but our shot execution wasn`t good." The second biggest win in T20I history! ?? Pakistan have bowled the West Indies out for 60 in Karachi. They win the first T20I by 143 runs!#PAKvWI Scorecard ⬇️ https://t.co/7PjtsNpQVN pic.twitter.com/QX8X1Ud6Aj — ICC (@ICC) April 1, 2018 ×

Pakistan defeat West Indies by 143 runs in 1st T20

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said that political decisions should be taken in polling booths, not courts, in an apparent reference to the ouster of his predecessor Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court.

Sharif, 68, was disqualified as the prime minister by the apex court in the Panama Papers case in July last year under Article 62 for failing to declare a receivable salary as an asset.

"Let the voters make political decisions," Abbasi said while addressing a crowd in Dera Ghazi Khan yesterday.

"Political decisions are taken in polling booths, not courts," he was quoted as saying by Dawn News.

Abbasi's remarks came days after his meeting with Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar.

The meeting, and Justice Nisar's subsequent referring of the prime minister as a supplicant, had irked Sharif, who later publicly asked Abbasi to explain his position on the meeting.

"It is a strange tradition that whosoever solves the country's problems is dragged into the courts, removed from posts and attempts are made to push (him) away from the people," Abbasi said.

This tradition is not Pakistan's tradition. This tradition will not give respect to politics in Pakistan," he warned.

The prime minister said the decisions of the people always prevail over court's verdicts ? some of which, he claimed, are controversial or not accepted by history.

"We continued to work despite severe opposition and gave respect to your vote," Abbasi told the gathering, outlining PML-N's achievements since it reclaimed power in 2013.

"You made a decision in 2008 and you got Asif Ali Zardari, and what he did to Pakistan, you all know. But in 2013 you sent him back home this was the people's decision," he said.

"The people then chose Nawaz Sharif, whose era saw unprecedented development.

"I have complete faith that the enlightened people of Pakistan will respond to the conspiracies and overthrow of governments at the polling stations (in upcoming general elections)," he added.

Sharif has held several rallies in different parts of Pakistan since his ouster. He has targeted the judiciary for removing him from the office of the prime minister and also come up with 'give respect to the ballot' slogan.

The political future of Sharif, who leads the country's most powerful political family, has been hanging in balance since his disqualification. If convicted, Sharif could be jailed.

Sharif's family alleges that the cases are politically motivated.&nbsp;

His statements came in an apparent reference to ouster of his predecessor Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said that political decisions should be taken in polling booths, not courts, in an apparent reference to the ouster of his predecessor Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court. Sharif, 68, was disqualified as the prime minister by the apex court in the Panama Papers case in July last year under Article 62 for failing to declare a receivable salary as an asset. "Let the voters make political decisions," Abbasi said while addressing a crowd in Dera Ghazi Khan yesterday. "Political decisions are taken in polling booths, not courts," he was quoted as saying by Dawn News. Abbasi's remarks came days after his meeting with Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar. The meeting, and Justice Nisar's subsequent referring of the prime minister as a supplicant, had irked Sharif, who later publicly asked Abbasi to explain his position on the meeting. "It is a strange tradition that whosoever solves the country's problems is dragged into the courts, removed from posts and attempts are made to push (him) away from the people," Abbasi said. This tradition is not Pakistan's tradition. This tradition will not give respect to politics in Pakistan," he warned. The prime minister said the decisions of the people always prevail over court's verdicts ? some of which, he claimed, are controversial or not accepted by history. "We continued to work despite severe opposition and gave respect to your vote," Abbasi told the gathering, outlining PML-N's achievements since it reclaimed power in 2013. "You made a decision in 2008 and you got Asif Ali Zardari, and what he did to Pakistan, you all know. But in 2013 you sent him back home this was the people's decision," he said. "The people then chose Nawaz Sharif, whose era saw unprecedented development. "I have complete faith that the enlightened people of Pakistan will respond to the conspiracies and overthrow of governments at the polling stations (in upcoming general elections)," he added. Sharif has held several rallies in different parts of Pakistan since his ouster. He has targeted the judiciary for removing him from the office of the prime minister and also come up with 'give respect to the ballot' slogan. The political future of Sharif, who leads the country's most powerful political family, has been hanging in balance since his disqualification. If convicted, Sharif could be jailed. Sharif's family alleges that the cases are politically motivated.

Political decisions should be taken in polling booths, not courts: Pakistan PM Abbasi

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