Pakistan has formally commissioned its first Chinese-built submarine, with a ceremony held in the Chinese port city of Sanya marking the beginning of a significant expansion of Islamabad's naval capabilities amid deepening defence cooperation between the two countries. Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the commissioning of the first of the submarines, which will be called Hangor, a name with historical resonance for the Pakistan Navy. Notably, in 1971, Pakistan's PNS HANGOR became the first submarine since World War II to sink a warship.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-happened-when-pete-hegseth-was-asked-if-trump-is-mentally-stable-enough-to-be-commander-in-chief-in-pics-1777535966899">What happened when Pete Hegseth was asked if Trump is 'mentally stable enough to be commander-in-chief'? | In Pics</a><h2>How many Chinese submarines is Pakistan getting?</h2>The military statement confirming the event did not specify the total number of submarines involved or provide further technical details. However, talking to Reuters, a Pakistani government official filled in some of the gaps. The official said that the full fleet will consist of eight submarines. Four of them will be built in China and delivered directly to Pakistan, while the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan under a transfer-of-technology arrangement. The official added that Pakistan expects to be "in a position to offer their exports under our defence production in future".Modernising Pakistan's naval fleetAdmiral Ashraf called the Pakistan commissioning "an important milestone to bolster our maritime defence and modernise our fleet with cutting-edge technology."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/309-days-at-sea-uss-gerald-r-ford-to-leave-mideast-why-is-us-navy-s-most-advanced-carrier-abandoning-iran-blockade-and-coming-home-in-pics-1777515112350">USS Gerald R. Ford to leave Mideast; Why is US Navy’s most advanced carrier abandoning Iran blockade and coming home? | In Pics</a><h2>Hangor-class submarines capabilities</h2>Pakistani Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf noted that the Hangor-class submarines are equipped with advanced weapons systems, modern sensors, and air-independent propulsion. This, he said, would play a key role in "preserving maritime order and stability in the region" and serve as a deterrent against aggression.The submarine acquisition is the latest in a series of high-profile defence developments for Pakistan. The country has also received Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets, which were battle-tested for the first time during last year's armed conflict with India. Pakistan claims to have used the Chinese-made aircraft to down Indian Rafale jets during that confrontation.India has officially refuted all claims that Pakistan shot down any Rafale fighter jets. India has officially rejected Pakistan’s claims that any Rafale fighter jets were shot down. Dismissing these assertions as “disinformation” and “propaganda,” the Indian Air Force prominently flew a Rafale bearing tail number BS022 during the 26 January 2026 Republic Day parade, one of the specific jets Pakistan had claimed to have destroyed. &nbsp;

Pakistan has officially inducted its first Chinese-built Hangor-class submarine, a major step in Beijing-Islamabad military ties. But why is it called Hangor? Hint: It's historic.

Pakistan has formally commissioned its first Chinese-built submarine, with a ceremony held in the Chinese port city of Sanya marking the beginning of a significant expansion of Islamabad's naval capabilities amid deepening defence cooperation between the two countries. Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the commissioning of the first of the submarines, which will be called Hangor, a name with historical resonance for the Pakistan Navy. Notably, in 1971, Pakistan's PNS HANGOR became the first submarine since World War II to sink a warship. Also read | What happened when Pete Hegseth was asked if Trump is 'mentally stable enough to be commander-in-chief'? | In Pics How many Chinese submarines is Pakistan getting? The military statement confirming the event did not specify the total number of submarines involved or provide further technical details. However, talking to Reuters, a Pakistani government official filled in some of the gaps. The official said that the full fleet will consist of eight submarines. Four of them will be built in China and delivered directly to Pakistan, while the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan under a transfer-of-technology arrangement. The official added that Pakistan expects to be "in a position to offer their exports under our defence production in future". Modernising Pakistan's naval fleet Admiral Ashraf called the Pakistan commissioning "an important milestone to bolster our maritime defence and modernise our fleet with cutting-edge technology." Also read | USS Gerald R. Ford to leave Mideast; Why is US Navy’s most advanced carrier abandoning Iran blockade and coming home? | In Pics Hangor-class submarines capabilities Pakistani Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf noted that the Hangor-class submarines are equipped with advanced weapons systems, modern sensors, and air-independent propulsion. This, he said, would play a key role in "preserving maritime order and stability in the region" and serve as a deterrent against aggression. The submarine acquisition is the latest in a series of high-profile defence developments for Pakistan. The country has also received Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets, which were battle-tested for the first time during last year's armed conflict with India. Pakistan claims to have used the Chinese-made aircraft to down Indian Rafale jets during that confrontation. India has officially refuted all claims that Pakistan shot down any Rafale fighter jets. India has officially rejected Pakistan’s claims that any Rafale fighter jets were shot down. Dismissing these assertions as “disinformation” and “propaganda,” the Indian Air Force prominently flew a Rafale bearing tail number BS022 during the 26 January 2026 Republic Day parade, one of the specific jets Pakistan had claimed to have destroyed.

Pakistan has officially inducted its first Chinese-built Hangor-class submarine, a major step in Beijing-Islamabad military ties. But why is it called Hangor? Hint: It's historic.

Pakistan commissions Chinese submarine fleet: Why has Islamabad named its newest attack submarine Hangor?

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that China is not worried about Pakistan “flirting” with the US, adding that the two nations have a time-tested partnership. Asif made the remarks a day after US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir at the White House’s Oval Office. US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were also present during the meeting.During an interview with British-American journalist Mehdi Hasan, Asif was asked about Pakistan’s ties with China and the US. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Pakistan has sourced about 80 per cent of its weapons from China over the last four years.Asif was questioned whether Pakistan’s close relationship with Trump through minerals deals, crypto deals, and others could jeopardise its partnership with China. To this, Asif responded by saying, “We are not worried about that, because it’s a time-tested relationship with China since the late 50s... I’ll just conclude it by saying that China is not worried about our flirtations or whatever you call it.”Asif was also asked with whom does Pakistan sees its “strategic future,” the US or China, to which he replied, “In the past, even today and in future also China has been a very reliable ally, very reliable provider of arms of all kinds to us. Our Air Force, submarines, and planes. Our submarines are from there. Almost a major portion of our arms are from China, and our defence cooperation is increasing. It is much more robust than before, with China... the main reason is unreliability of other sources like the United States of America.”The Pakistani defence minister also stated that China is a “reliable” neighbour, with whom Pakistan shares its borders and geography.Speaking about Pakistan’s relationship with the US, Asif said, “We have had a transactional or a flirtatious relationship with the United States for a very long time.” Despite this, he added that China was and will continue to be Pakistan’s top ally. “They’re reliable, and they are our neighbours,” he said.The interview also covered wide-ranging topics, including the Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact and the imprisonment of former PM Imran Khan.

The Pakistani defence minister also stated that China is a “reliable” neighbour, with whom Pakistan shares its borders and geography.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that China is not worried about Pakistan “flirting” with the US, adding that the two nations have a time-tested partnership. Asif made the remarks a day after US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir at the White House’s Oval Office. US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were also present during the meeting. During an interview with British-American journalist Mehdi Hasan, Asif was asked about Pakistan’s ties with China and the US. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Pakistan has sourced about 80 per cent of its weapons from China over the last four years. Asif was questioned whether Pakistan’s close relationship with Trump through minerals deals, crypto deals, and others could jeopardise its partnership with China. To this, Asif responded by saying, “We are not worried about that, because it’s a time-tested relationship with China since the late 50s... I’ll just conclude it by saying that China is not worried about our flirtations or whatever you call it.” Asif was also asked with whom does Pakistan sees its “strategic future,” the US or China, to which he replied, “In the past, even today and in future also China has been a very reliable ally, very reliable provider of arms of all kinds to us. Our Air Force, submarines, and planes. Our submarines are from there. Almost a major portion of our arms are from China, and our defence cooperation is increasing. It is much more robust than before, with China... the main reason is unreliability of other sources like the United States of America.” The Pakistani defence minister also stated that China is a “reliable” neighbour, with whom Pakistan shares its borders and geography. Speaking about Pakistan’s relationship with the US, Asif said, “We have had a transactional or a flirtatious relationship with the United States for a very long time.” Despite this, he added that China was and will continue to be Pakistan’s top ally. “They’re reliable, and they are our neighbours,” he said. The interview also covered wide-ranging topics, including the Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact and the imprisonment of former PM Imran Khan.

The Pakistani defence minister also stated that China is a “reliable” neighbour, with whom Pakistan shares its borders and geography.

China is not worried about Pakistan ‘flirting’ with US: Khawaja Asif calls Beijing top ally after Shahbaz Sharif meets Trump

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, believed to be responsible for the planning and execution of attacks against the Chinese installations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, has been killed, local media reports stated.

It is being reported that Rafiq, also known as Button Kharab, was killed near Paich Dara, Kunar Province, Afghanistan.

Details surrounding how he was taken down or who was responsible for his killing are still unclear.

“He has gone out of communication since yesterday,” a senior Tehrik-e-Taliban Commander (TTP) told The Khorasan Diary, a news website run by independent journalists, on Tuesday.

“We can only confirm his death if we see the body,” another TTP commander considered a close aide of Tariq was quoted as saying.

The same information was later confirmed by a Pakistani official, but he did not give further details, The Khorasan Diary reported.

The outlet confirmed the death stating that it has access to a video of Tariq Button Kharab with gunshot wounds.

<h2>Targeted Chinese workers&nbsp;</h2>

Tariq, who is a member of TTP in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, is the main brains behind the suicide bombing that killed nine&nbsp;Chinese workers in northern Pakistan on July 14, 2021.

These Chinese workers were headed for a hydropower project in Dasu Dam, Kohistan.

<h2>Pakistan: Chinese national arrested on blasphemy charges</h2>

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According to reports, he was also responsible for escorting and planning attacks in collusion with Balochistan Liberation Army, particularly the female suicide bombing targeting the Chinese language Centre in Karachi, on April 26, 2022.

In recent years, Chinese activities in Pakistan have faced major pushback from separatists and other militants, including several deadly attacks.

There have been increased attacks on Chinese workers, who have been sent to Pakistan to complete infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is a sub-sect of the wider Belt and Road initiative.

Beijing has invested more than $65 billion in infrastructure projects in Pakistan.

China has repeatedly urged its “all-weather ally” to do more to protect its interests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, believed to be responsible for the planning and execution of attacks against the Chinese installations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, has been killed, local media reports stated.

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, believed to be responsible for the planning and execution of attacks against the Chinese installations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, has been killed, local media reports stated. It is being reported that Rafiq, also known as Button Kharab, was killed near Paich Dara, Kunar Province, Afghanistan. Details surrounding how he was taken down or who was responsible for his killing are still unclear. “He has gone out of communication since yesterday,” a senior Tehrik-e-Taliban Commander (TTP) told The Khorasan Diary, a news website run by independent journalists, on Tuesday. “We can only confirm his death if we see the body,” another TTP commander considered a close aide of Tariq was quoted as saying. The same information was later confirmed by a Pakistani official, but he did not give further details, The Khorasan Diary reported. The outlet confirmed the death stating that it has access to a video of Tariq Button Kharab with gunshot wounds. Targeted Chinese workers Tariq, who is a member of TTP in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, is the main brains behind the suicide bombing that killed nine Chinese workers in northern Pakistan on July 14, 2021. These Chinese workers were headed for a hydropower project in Dasu Dam, Kohistan. Pakistan: Chinese national arrested on blasphemy charges According to reports, he was also responsible for escorting and planning attacks in collusion with Balochistan Liberation Army, particularly the female suicide bombing targeting the Chinese language Centre in Karachi, on April 26, 2022. In recent years, Chinese activities in Pakistan have faced major pushback from separatists and other militants, including several deadly attacks. There have been increased attacks on Chinese workers, who have been sent to Pakistan to complete infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is a sub-sect of the wider Belt and Road initiative. Beijing has invested more than $65 billion in infrastructure projects in Pakistan. China has repeatedly urged its “all-weather ally” to do more to protect its interests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

TTP terrorist responsible for attacks on Chinese in Pakistan killed: Report

Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.

Not only that, but the meeting also found mention of the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciating China’s “principled and just stance” well as its “firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity”, reports Dawn newspaper.

Bilawal met his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Islamabad. Both ministers concluded their Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting in India’s southern Goa state on Friday.

“Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the high-quality development of&nbsp;China Pakistan Economic Corridor&nbsp;(CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Earlier in the day, Bilawal while addressing a delegation-level meeting with China, said, “We deeply appreciate China’s firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national development as well as China’s principled and just stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.”

It comes a day after India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued stern remarks on the CPEC project at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting.

<h2>SCO meet | Jaishankar: Victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism</h2>

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“On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

India has consistently raised its objections to the CPEC connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

India says that CPEC will give China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

Moreover, it has previously criticised statements by Pakistani and Chinese leaders on the Kashmir issue, saying that New Delhi&nbsp;rejected their unwarranted references to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting in Islamabad, Bilawal termed the Pakistan-China friendship as “irreversible”, “a historic reality”, and a “consensus choice of the two nations”. He added: “Pakistan remains against bloc politics or great power competition of any kind.”

“We are committed to remaining engaged with China to promote south-south cooperation, especially in light of emerging global concerns like human-induced climate change,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.

Pakistan and China held their fourth edition of the Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue on Saturday where both affirmed to continue their commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a day after India criticised the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project. Not only that, but the meeting also found mention of the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciating China’s “principled and just stance” well as its “firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity”, reports Dawn newspaper. Bilawal met his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang in Islamabad. Both ministers concluded their Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting in India’s southern Goa state on Friday. “Pakistan and China have reiterated their abiding commitment to the high-quality development of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project,” state-run Radio Pakistan reported. Earlier in the day, Bilawal while addressing a delegation-level meeting with China, said, “We deeply appreciate China’s firm support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national development as well as China’s principled and just stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.” It comes a day after India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued stern remarks on the CPEC project at a press conference after the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting. SCO meet | Jaishankar: Victims of terrorism do not sit with perpetrators of terrorism “On the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, I think it was made very clear, not once but twice in the SCO meeting, that connectivity is good for progress, but connectivity cannot violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity.” India has consistently raised its objections to the CPEC connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India says that CPEC will give China access to the Arabian Sea through the Gwadar port in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. Moreover, it has previously criticised statements by Pakistani and Chinese leaders on the Kashmir issue, saying that New Delhi rejected their unwarranted references to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During the meeting in Islamabad, Bilawal termed the Pakistan-China friendship as “irreversible”, “a historic reality”, and a “consensus choice of the two nations”. He added: “Pakistan remains against bloc politics or great power competition of any kind.” “We are committed to remaining engaged with China to promote south-south cooperation, especially in light of emerging global concerns like human-induced climate change,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan, China again rake up Kashmir, reaffirm commitment to CPEC after India’s jibe

From 2008 to 2021, China spent around $240 billion bailing out 22 developing countries who have struggled to repay loans taken for the Belt and Road infrastructure projects, a study has revealed.

The report, published on Tuesday, was prepared by researchers from the World Bank, Harvard Kennedy School, AidData and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy.

The study notes that around 80 per cent of the bailout money was spent between 2016 to 2021, mainly in middle-income countries like Pakistan, Argentina, and Mongolia.

Argentina was the highest recipient with $111.8 billion, followed by Pakistan with $48.5 billion and Egypt with $15.6 billion. Nine countries received less than $1 billion.

It notes that China’s spending on Belt and Road infrastructure projects has tapered off since 2016 as many projects failed to yield rich dividends.

"Beijing is ultimately trying to rescue its own banks. That's why it has gotten into the risky business of international bailout lending," said Carmen Reinhart, a former World Bank chief economist and one of the study's authors, according to the Reuters news agency.

Their research found out that Chinese loans to debt-laden countries spiked to 60 per cent of its overseas lending portfolio in 2022 from less than 5 per cent in 2010.

<h2>Gravitas: China skips G20 meeting in Arunachal Pradesh</h2>

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Of the $240 billion bailout money, around $170 billion came from the People's Bank of China (PBOC) swap lines, including those in Suriname, Sri Lanka, and Egypt.

Moreover, Chinese state-owned banks doled out $70 billion in bridge loans or balance of payments support, and rollovers for both types of loans amounted to $140 billion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paranoid-kim-jong-un-orders-increase-in-production-of-weapons-grade-nuclear-materials-576427">Kim Jong Un orders increase in production of weapons-grade nuclear materials</a>

The study criticised some central banks for potentially using the PBOC swap lines to “artificially pump up their foreign exchange reserve figures."

Brad Parks, one of the report's authors, and director of AidData, a research lab at William &amp; Mary College in the US, described China's rescue lending as "opaque and uncoordinated."

Their report further found out that China allocated one-fifth of its bailout money to middle-income countries because of the risk they pose to Chinese banks' balance sheets, while the low-income countries were given grace periods and maturity extensions.

China is currently negotiating debt restructurings with countries like Sri Lanka, Ghana and Zambia and has been facing criticism for holding up the processes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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From 2008 to 2021, China spent around $240 billion bailing out 22 developing countries who have struggled to repay loans taken for the Belt and Road infrastructure projects, a study has revealed.

From 2008 to 2021, China spent around $240 billion bailing out 22 developing countries who have struggled to repay loans taken for the Belt and Road infrastructure projects, a study has revealed. The report, published on Tuesday, was prepared by researchers from the World Bank, Harvard Kennedy School, AidData and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy. The study notes that around 80 per cent of the bailout money was spent between 2016 to 2021, mainly in middle-income countries like Pakistan, Argentina, and Mongolia. Argentina was the highest recipient with $111.8 billion, followed by Pakistan with $48.5 billion and Egypt with $15.6 billion. Nine countries received less than $1 billion. It notes that China’s spending on Belt and Road infrastructure projects has tapered off since 2016 as many projects failed to yield rich dividends. "Beijing is ultimately trying to rescue its own banks. That's why it has gotten into the risky business of international bailout lending," said Carmen Reinhart, a former World Bank chief economist and one of the study's authors, according to the Reuters news agency. Their research found out that Chinese loans to debt-laden countries spiked to 60 per cent of its overseas lending portfolio in 2022 from less than 5 per cent in 2010. Gravitas: China skips G20 meeting in Arunachal Pradesh Of the $240 billion bailout money, around $170 billion came from the People's Bank of China (PBOC) swap lines, including those in Suriname, Sri Lanka, and Egypt. Moreover, Chinese state-owned banks doled out $70 billion in bridge loans or balance of payments support, and rollovers for both types of loans amounted to $140 billion. Also read | Kim Jong Un orders increase in production of weapons-grade nuclear materials The study criticised some central banks for potentially using the PBOC swap lines to “artificially pump up their foreign exchange reserve figures." Brad Parks, one of the report's authors, and director of AidData, a research lab at William & Mary College in the US, described China's rescue lending as "opaque and uncoordinated." Their report further found out that China allocated one-fifth of its bailout money to middle-income countries because of the risk they pose to Chinese banks' balance sheets, while the low-income countries were given grace periods and maturity extensions. China is currently negotiating debt restructurings with countries like Sri Lanka, Ghana and Zambia and has been facing criticism for holding up the processes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China spent $240 billion bailing out countries who have taken Belt and Road loans: Report

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media.

This is Sharif’s first official visit to China after taking charge earlier this year, and so is the case of Xi after recently concluding its twice-a-decade party congress where he was elected unopposed for third-term.

Both leaders met at the People’s Great Hall of China and discussed moving forward more with the construction of their economic corridor and accelerating the construction of infrastructure for the Gwadar Sea Port, state media reported.

Their conversation ranged on broad-based economic cooperation and investment, besides exchanging views on regional and global developments.

Shehbaz and Xi also discussed the need to further promote the 'all-weather strategic cooperation partnership' between the two nations.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visits China amid domestic, global turmoil

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According to Pakistani media, Sharif, who is on a two-day visit to China, was welcomed with a red carpet and a guard of honour by the Chinese forces.

Notably, ahead of his visit, Sharif hurriedly cleared $12 billion worth of three major projects were cleared under the CPEC, reports Dawn newspaper.

CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—a pet project of Xi—which is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/was-unaware-of-any-undertaking-replies-imran-khan-in-a-sc-contempt-case-529995" hreflang="en">'Was unaware of any undertaking', replies Imran Khan in a contempt case</a>

Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/isi-chief-makes-surprise-appearance-slams-imran-khan-for-maligning-military-and-iss-529077" hreflang="en">ISI chief makes surprise appearance, slams Imran Khan for 'maligning' military</a>

India has repeatedly registered its protests over CPEC, saying that it is in violation of its sovereignty as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met in Beijing on Wednesday, where the talks centred around Islamabad’s economic crisis and the need to boost projects under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, according to the state media. This is Sharif’s first official visit to China after taking charge earlier this year, and so is the case of Xi after recently concluding its twice-a-decade party congress where he was elected unopposed for third-term. Both leaders met at the People’s Great Hall of China and discussed moving forward more with the construction of their economic corridor and accelerating the construction of infrastructure for the Gwadar Sea Port, state media reported. Their conversation ranged on broad-based economic cooperation and investment, besides exchanging views on regional and global developments. Shehbaz and Xi also discussed the need to further promote the 'all-weather strategic cooperation partnership' between the two nations. Watch | WION Dispatch: Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visits China amid domestic, global turmoil According to Pakistani media, Sharif, who is on a two-day visit to China, was welcomed with a red carpet and a guard of honour by the Chinese forces. Notably, ahead of his visit, Sharif hurriedly cleared $12 billion worth of three major projects were cleared under the CPEC, reports Dawn newspaper. CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—a pet project of Xi—which is a collection of infrastructure projects that are under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013. Also read | 'Was unaware of any undertaking', replies Imran Khan in a contempt case Originally valued at $47 billion, the value of CPEC projects is worth $62 billion as of 2020. Also read | ISI chief makes surprise appearance, slams Imran Khan for 'maligning' military India has repeatedly registered its protests over CPEC, saying that it is in violation of its sovereignty as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China’s Xi Jinping meets Pak’s Shehbaz Sharif, both agree to revitalise CPEC projects

Corruption and sex crimes are the two main evils confronting the Muslim world, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, calling on the need to “save the Muslim youth from being inundated with obscenity and pornographic material available on the internet”.

The prime minister made these comments during an interactive dialogue on ‘Riyasat-i-Madina: Islam, Society and Ethical Revival’ with top Muslim scholars from the world on Sunday, which was organised by the recently set up National Rehmatul-lil-Aalameen Authority (NRAA).

Khan in October formed the NRAA for researching how best to disseminate lessons from the life of the Prophet to the masses.

“There are two sorts of crimes in the society, one is corruption and the other is sex crime. Sex crime has risen sharply in our society, i.e. rape and child abuse and only one per cent of this is reported,” Khan said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-qureshi-insults-saudi-ambassador-441342">Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi 'insults' Saudi ambassador</a>

“The other 99 per cent, I believe, society has to fight it. The same is the case with corruption… Society has to make corruption unacceptable. Unfortunately, when you have leadership which is corrupt over time, they make corruption acceptable,” the prime minister said, apparently taking a dig at his predecessor Nawaz Sharif, head of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

The Dawn newspaper reported that while seeking viewpoints of the international scholars, Khan hinted that he would be holding similar dialogues with renowned scholars in the future as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-shares-leopard-video-gets-trolled-for-tormenting-price-rise-440267">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan shares leopard video, gets trolled for tormenting price rise</a>

Meanwhile, delivering another address on Monday, Khan stressed the importance of making Pakistan economically strong and self-reliant and said that the nationalisation process adopted in the 1960s severely undermined the country’s progress.

He also claimed that its all-weather ally China was ready to help Pakistan and improve&nbsp;the latter’s economy.

“But our problem is that we are still not ready for it,” Khan added.

“By exporting only onion and vegetables, we cannot progress as industrial growth is must to improve the economy. Wealth creation of a country is impossible without industrial development while increasing exports supplement such efforts,” Khan said during an event of Pak-China Business Investment Forum in Islamabad.

(With inputs from agencies)

Corruption and sex crimes are the two main evils confronting the Muslim world, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, calling on the need to “save the Muslim youth from being inundated with obscenity and pornographic material available on the internet”.

Corruption and sex crimes are the two main evils confronting the Muslim world, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said, calling on the need to “save the Muslim youth from being inundated with obscenity and pornographic material available on the internet”. The prime minister made these comments during an interactive dialogue on ‘Riyasat-i-Madina: Islam, Society and Ethical Revival’ with top Muslim scholars from the world on Sunday, which was organised by the recently set up National Rehmatul-lil-Aalameen Authority (NRAA). Khan in October formed the NRAA for researching how best to disseminate lessons from the life of the Prophet to the masses. “There are two sorts of crimes in the society, one is corruption and the other is sex crime. Sex crime has risen sharply in our society, i.e. rape and child abuse and only one per cent of this is reported,” Khan said. Also read | Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi 'insults' Saudi ambassador “The other 99 per cent, I believe, society has to fight it. The same is the case with corruption… Society has to make corruption unacceptable. Unfortunately, when you have leadership which is corrupt over time, they make corruption acceptable,” the prime minister said, apparently taking a dig at his predecessor Nawaz Sharif, head of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The Dawn newspaper reported that while seeking viewpoints of the international scholars, Khan hinted that he would be holding similar dialogues with renowned scholars in the future as well. Also read | Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan shares leopard video, gets trolled for tormenting price rise Meanwhile, delivering another address on Monday, Khan stressed the importance of making Pakistan economically strong and self-reliant and said that the nationalisation process adopted in the 1960s severely undermined the country’s progress. He also claimed that its all-weather ally China was ready to help Pakistan and improve the latter’s economy. “But our problem is that we are still not ready for it,” Khan added. “By exporting only onion and vegetables, we cannot progress as industrial growth is must to improve the economy. Wealth creation of a country is impossible without industrial development while increasing exports supplement such efforts,” Khan said during an event of Pak-China Business Investment Forum in Islamabad. (With inputs from agencies)

Sex crime, corruption plaguing Muslim world, says Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan

Following a month-long protest demanding basic rights, the residents of Gwadar called off their sit-in agitation after the Pakistan government accepted “all of their demands”.

Gwadar, a port city on the southwestern coast of Balochistan in Pakistan, had been the site of the latest tussle between the locals and the government over increasing discontent with China's presence in the city.

The protest saw tens of thousands of people, including women and children, march on the main roads and streets protesting against the ‘trawlers mafia’ and seeking better health facilities and drinking water

Locals have also been complaining that Chinese authorities—&nbsp; who are developing the main port under the Belt and Road project—have been assigning related jobs to outside labour, leaving residents unemployed and struggling to make money.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-wion-ground-report-this-is-what-protesters-in-gwadar-want-from-pak-govt-436647">WION Ground Report: This is what protesters in Gwadar want from Pak govt</a>

Provincial Minister for Planning and Development Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi took tow Twitter to announce that the agitation has been called off following successful negotiations with Maulana Hidayatur Rehman — the leader of the Gwadar protest movement.

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The negotiation with Maulana Hidayat Ur Rehman in the presence of CM has been successful. Govt has accepted all demands of Maulana Sb and the dharna is to be called off.
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“Negotiations with Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, in the presence of the chief minister, have been successful. The government has accepted all the demands of Maulana sahib (sir) and the dharna (protest) is to be called off,” Buledi said.

Balochistan chief minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo visited the site of the protest and informed them that their demands had been accepted, reports the Dawn newspaper.

Addressing the protesters, Bizenjo said that a complete ban had been imposed on illegal fishing and directions had been issued to the departments concerned.

Also read |&nbsp;‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wont-stop-till-we-get-peace-maulana-hidayat-talks-to-wion-about-trawler-mafia-and-failing-pak-govt-436780">Won’t stop till we get peace’: Maulana Hidayat talks to WION about Gwadar protest</a>

“These are all legitimate demands,” he said. Providing the people of Gwadar with development projects and basic facilities is among our top priorities, he added.

The Gwadar port is an integral part of the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project (CPEC), the flagship project of China's multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).&nbsp;

The strategic infrastructure project is crucial for both nations as it connects China's Xinjiang province with Gwadar port in Pakistan's Balochistan province.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following a month-long protest demanding basic rights, the residents of Gwadar called off their sit-in agitation after the Pakistan government accepted “all of their demands”.

Following a month-long protest demanding basic rights, the residents of Gwadar called off their sit-in agitation after the Pakistan government accepted “all of their demands”. Gwadar, a port city on the southwestern coast of Balochistan in Pakistan, had been the site of the latest tussle between the locals and the government over increasing discontent with China's presence in the city. The protest saw tens of thousands of people, including women and children, march on the main roads and streets protesting against the ‘trawlers mafia’ and seeking better health facilities and drinking water Locals have also been complaining that Chinese authorities— who are developing the main port under the Belt and Road project—have been assigning related jobs to outside labour, leaving residents unemployed and struggling to make money. Also read | WION Ground Report: This is what protesters in Gwadar want from Pak govt Provincial Minister for Planning and Development Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi took tow Twitter to announce that the agitation has been called off following successful negotiations with Maulana Hidayatur Rehman — the leader of the Gwadar protest movement. The negotiation with Maulana Hidayat Ur Rehman in the presence of CM has been successful. Govt has accepted all demands of Maulana Sb and the dharna is to be called off. — Zahoor Buledi (@ZahoorBuledi) December 16, 2021 × “Negotiations with Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, in the presence of the chief minister, have been successful. The government has accepted all the demands of Maulana sahib (sir) and the dharna (protest) is to be called off,” Buledi said. Balochistan chief minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo visited the site of the protest and informed them that their demands had been accepted, reports the Dawn newspaper. Addressing the protesters, Bizenjo said that a complete ban had been imposed on illegal fishing and directions had been issued to the departments concerned. Also read | ‘Won’t stop till we get peace’: Maulana Hidayat talks to WION about Gwadar protest “These are all legitimate demands,” he said. Providing the people of Gwadar with development projects and basic facilities is among our top priorities, he added. The Gwadar port is an integral part of the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project (CPEC), the flagship project of China's multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The strategic infrastructure project is crucial for both nations as it connects China's Xinjiang province with Gwadar port in Pakistan's Balochistan province. (With inputs from agencies)

Gwadar protesters call off stir after Pakistan govt accepts ‘all of their demands’

Pakistan on Friday approved China`s CanSino Biologics Inc`s (CanSinoBIO) COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use, Health Minister Faisal Sultan said, the fourth candidate authorized in the South Asian nation of 220 million.

Pakistan, largely reliant on the GAVI/WHO COVAX initiative for poorer nations, has also allowed private companies to import coronavirus vaccines and has agreed to exempt such imports from price caps.

"Yes, correct," Sultan texted Reuters after being asked if the Drug Regulation Authority had approved the vaccine.

China`s Sinopharm, AstraZeneca and Russia`s Sputnik V have also received authorisation.

Pakistan is the second country to approve CanSinoBio after Mexico.

Mexico has signed a deal with CanSino for at least 8 million doses. Pakistan, according to Sultan, could receive "in the range of tens of millions" of doses.

CanSinoBIO last week released interim efficacy results from a multi-country trial, which included Pakistan, showing 65.7% efficacy in preventing symptomatic coronavirus cases and a 90.98% success rate in stopping severe infections.

In the Pakistani subset, efficacy of the CanSinoBIO vaccine at preventing symptomatic cases was 74.8% and 100% at preventing severe disease.

The decision to allow commercial imports of the vaccine with an exemption on upper price caps has sparked criticism.

"This step will deepen inequality in society at a time when there is a need to have widespread coverage," former health minister Zafar Mirza told Reuters. "It`s not a good public policy to make it solely the rich can afford to be vaccinated."

Pakistan has recorded more than 550,000 cases of COVID-19 and more than 12,000 deaths but has yet to receive any of the 17 million doses it is expected to get through the COVAX initiative.

The country earlier this month launched a vaccination drive with 500,000 doses of Sinopharm donated by longtime ally China to give to frontline healthcare workers as priority.

Pakistan on Friday approved China`s CanSino Biologics Inc`s (CanSinoBIO) COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use, Health Minister Faisal Sultan said, the fourth candidate authorized in the South Asian nation of 220 million.

Pakistan on Friday approved China`s CanSino Biologics Inc`s (CanSinoBIO) COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use, Health Minister Faisal Sultan said, the fourth candidate authorized in the South Asian nation of 220 million. Pakistan, largely reliant on the GAVI/WHO COVAX initiative for poorer nations, has also allowed private companies to import coronavirus vaccines and has agreed to exempt such imports from price caps. "Yes, correct," Sultan texted Reuters after being asked if the Drug Regulation Authority had approved the vaccine. China`s Sinopharm, AstraZeneca and Russia`s Sputnik V have also received authorisation. Pakistan is the second country to approve CanSinoBio after Mexico. Mexico has signed a deal with CanSino for at least 8 million doses. Pakistan, according to Sultan, could receive "in the range of tens of millions" of doses. CanSinoBIO last week released interim efficacy results from a multi-country trial, which included Pakistan, showing 65.7% efficacy in preventing symptomatic coronavirus cases and a 90.98% success rate in stopping severe infections. In the Pakistani subset, efficacy of the CanSinoBIO vaccine at preventing symptomatic cases was 74.8% and 100% at preventing severe disease. The decision to allow commercial imports of the vaccine with an exemption on upper price caps has sparked criticism. "This step will deepen inequality in society at a time when there is a need to have widespread coverage," former health minister Zafar Mirza told Reuters. "It`s not a good public policy to make it solely the rich can afford to be vaccinated." Pakistan has recorded more than 550,000 cases of COVID-19 and more than 12,000 deaths but has yet to receive any of the 17 million doses it is expected to get through the COVAX initiative. The country earlier this month launched a vaccination drive with 500,000 doses of Sinopharm donated by longtime ally China to give to frontline healthcare workers as priority.

Pakistan approves Chinese CanSinoBIO COVID vaccine for emergency use

Pakistan will purchase 1.2 million COVID-19 vaccine doses from China`s Sinopharm , a minister said on Thursday, the first official confirmation of a vaccine purchase by the South Asian country as it battles a second wave of infections.

China approved a COVID-19 vaccine developed by an affiliate of state-backed pharmaceutical giant Sinopharm on Thursday, its first approved shot for general public use.

"The Cabinet Committee has decided to initially purchase 1.2 million doses of the vaccine from the Chinese company Sinopharm, which will be provided free of cost to frontline workers in the first quarter of 2021," Pakistani Minister for Science and Technology Chaudhry Fawad Hussain said on Twitter.

Pakistan had earlier this month approved $150 million in funding to buy COVID-19 vaccines, initially to cover the most vulnerable 5% of the population.

The country did not announce which vaccine it would procure, but said a panel of experts was compiling a list of recommendations and that it could tap more than one source.

"If the private sector wants to import any other internationally-approved vaccine, it can do so," Hussain said on Thursday.

The country of 220 million is in the midst of another spate of infections, with 58 deaths on Wednesday taking its death toll past 10,000.

It also reported 2,475 new infections, taking the total to 479,715.

Pakistan is also running phase III clinical trials for CanSino Biologics` COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Ad5-nCoV, led by the government-run National Institute of Health.

Pakistan will purchase 1.2 million COVID-19 vaccine doses from China`s Sinopharm , a minister said on Thursday, the first official confirmation of a vaccine purchase by the South Asian country as it battles a second wave of infections.

Pakistan will purchase 1.2 million COVID-19 vaccine doses from China`s Sinopharm , a minister said on Thursday, the first official confirmation of a vaccine purchase by the South Asian country as it battles a second wave of infections. China approved a COVID-19 vaccine developed by an affiliate of state-backed pharmaceutical giant Sinopharm on Thursday, its first approved shot for general public use. "The Cabinet Committee has decided to initially purchase 1.2 million doses of the vaccine from the Chinese company Sinopharm, which will be provided free of cost to frontline workers in the first quarter of 2021," Pakistani Minister for Science and Technology Chaudhry Fawad Hussain said on Twitter. Pakistan had earlier this month approved $150 million in funding to buy COVID-19 vaccines, initially to cover the most vulnerable 5% of the population. The country did not announce which vaccine it would procure, but said a panel of experts was compiling a list of recommendations and that it could tap more than one source. "If the private sector wants to import any other internationally-approved vaccine, it can do so," Hussain said on Thursday. The country of 220 million is in the midst of another spate of infections, with 58 deaths on Wednesday taking its death toll past 10,000. It also reported 2,475 new infections, taking the total to 479,715. Pakistan is also running phase III clinical trials for CanSino Biologics` COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Ad5-nCoV, led by the government-run National Institute of Health.

Pakistan to purchase 1.2 million COVID-19 vaccine doses from China's Sinopharm

China has sought a 'loan guarantee' from Pakistan - as the country's economic situation weakens. Meanwhile, after 2.5 years of being in power Imran Khan has told his ministers that 'the time for performance has arrived'. Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: China seeks 'loan guarantee' from Pakistan

Wuhan scientists are believed to have been conducting research into deadly pathogens in Pakistan since 2015

China has been conducting experiments of dangerous pathogens in Pak | Watch this report

Pakistan is struggling to raise fresh funding for Chinese projects. According to a report, Chinese banks are reluctant to fund CPEC projects. Are Chinese banks facing money troubles of their own? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Chinese lenders 'reluctant' to fund CPEC

Balochistan is Pakistan's biggest and most neglected province. The region has been torn between insurgency and state-sponsored crimes.

Pakistan's military is guilty of enforced disappearances, mass murder, arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings in Balochistan, making the province a text book example of human rights abuse.

China's entry into the region, through CPEC, has made matters worse. Those living in Balochistan do not want to be a part of Pakistan, but speaking up for independence results in disappearance or death.

On August 26, 2006, former Governor of Balochistan,&nbsp;and the tallest leader of the region, Akbar Bugti was assassinated by Pakistan's military. After 14 years of that incident, not much has changed. Pakistan's military continues to violate the Baloch, and their independence is not in sight.

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In an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma,&nbsp;Brahmdagh Bugti, the grandson of&nbsp;Akbar Bugti and the President of the Baloch Republican Party, talked about the&nbsp;independence movement of Balochistan.

Fourteen years after the assassination of Akbar Bugti, the movement is on a larger scale now. "If you compare the independence movement with what was there 14 years ago, you will see that it was not this widely known on an international level. People are talking about it now, including the United Nations and various Human Rights activists, and a lot of other international platforms are highlighting the human rights violation in Balochistan,"&nbsp;Brahmdagh Bugti said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawab-akbar-bugtis-death-anniversary-how-baloch-leaders-killing-rocked-pakistan-323049">Also read|&nbsp;Nawab Akbar Bugti's death anniversary: How Baloch leader’s killing rocked Pakistan</a>

When asked about why isn't any action taken even after the awareness on an international level, he replied, "Each nation has its own interest. The people from the UN, in my experience, only come to speak and listen about what is going on, and promote their own interests and issues. They do help the countries that have human rights violations, but it is very less."

Bugti had also, in the past, sought help from India. However, the Indian government has not provided any help so far. "So far, we have not received any help from India except from the India media. However, I think there is nothing wrong in India helping if Pakistan requests it. People are dying (in Balochistan) and extreme physical force is being used on locals. Resources are being grabbed from one set of the community to benefit another. So, why cannot India help. In 1970s, India helped Bangladesh, so I don't see why India cannot help Balochistan. India can put pressure on Pakistan to stop it, and stop the bloodshed, torture and the violence," he said.

Brahmdagh Bugti has claimed that he is ready to have a dialogue with the Pakistan government on some conditions, but the government has not acknowledged the same. "Dialogue is a political thing. In no political situation can anyone reject a dialogue. I am ready for it, but the Pakistan government has not&nbsp;reached out to me recently. There have been few messages but nothing major."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-all-weather-friend-china-faces-heat-in-pok-over-dams-323010">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan's 'all-weather friend' China faces heat in PoK over dams</a>

The entry of China in Pakistan through the CPEC project, Bugti believes, is a destructive policy for the people of Baloch. "What we want for our future is on us to decide. Whether we want schools, universities, roads, port, or not is for us to decide. We should get to decide what happens on our land, and not someone else&nbsp;sitting in Islamabad or Beijing," he expressed. He also added that people who disagree with these decisions are labelled as terrorists, traitors, and criminals.

Bugti also claimed that the locals have no idea about what is being built there, and the locals are moved from one place to another on gunpoint for the project.

Talking about attacks on the Chinese workers in Balochistan, Bugti stressed that the incidents were not attacks but defense. "They are defensive actions. Attacking is going to someone's land and attacking, but they are only doing this in Balochistan," he said.

"These are not justified because we are against violence, but these are normal reactions," he added.

WION&nbsp;did extensive group reports from Balochistan focusing on the military role in forced disappearances from 2017. Bugti claims the situation has worsened since then.&nbsp;

While the&nbsp;Uighur Muslim group in China and the Tibet group are getting global support, Balochistan has not yet got as much support. "We are trying our best, and we have hope. A lot of people claim but in reality, there is nothing. If India supports us now, things will be different."

Talking about the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Bugti alleged Khan of changing his words every day. "People are making jokes&nbsp;and laughing. If you see social media and even the local media, things are in a mess. Everybody is laughing at the situation," Bugti laughed.

"It is not Imran Khan, but the people behind him. It points towards their stupidity that they chose (Imran Khan) for such a position," he added.

Balochistan is Pakistan's biggest and most neglected province. The region has been torn between insurgency and state-sponsored crimes. Pakistan's military is guilty of enforced disappearances, mass murder, arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings in Balochistan, making the province a text book example of human rights abuse.

Balochistan is Pakistan's biggest and most neglected province. The region has been torn between insurgency and state-sponsored crimes. Pakistan's military is guilty of enforced disappearances, mass murder, arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings in Balochistan, making the province a text book example of human rights abuse. China's entry into the region, through CPEC, has made matters worse. Those living in Balochistan do not want to be a part of Pakistan, but speaking up for independence results in disappearance or death. On August 26, 2006, former Governor of Balochistan, and the tallest leader of the region, Akbar Bugti was assassinated by Pakistan's military. After 14 years of that incident, not much has changed. Pakistan's military continues to violate the Baloch, and their independence is not in sight. In an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Brahmdagh Bugti, the grandson of Akbar Bugti and the President of the Baloch Republican Party, talked about the independence movement of Balochistan. Fourteen years after the assassination of Akbar Bugti, the movement is on a larger scale now. "If you compare the independence movement with what was there 14 years ago, you will see that it was not this widely known on an international level. People are talking about it now, including the United Nations and various Human Rights activists, and a lot of other international platforms are highlighting the human rights violation in Balochistan," Brahmdagh Bugti said. Also read| Nawab Akbar Bugti's death anniversary: How Baloch leader’s killing rocked Pakistan When asked about why isn't any action taken even after the awareness on an international level, he replied, "Each nation has its own interest. The people from the UN, in my experience, only come to speak and listen about what is going on, and promote their own interests and issues. They do help the countries that have human rights violations, but it is very less." Bugti had also, in the past, sought help from India. However, the Indian government has not provided any help so far. "So far, we have not received any help from India except from the India media. However, I think there is nothing wrong in India helping if Pakistan requests it. People are dying (in Balochistan) and extreme physical force is being used on locals. Resources are being grabbed from one set of the community to benefit another. So, why cannot India help. In 1970s, India helped Bangladesh, so I don't see why India cannot help Balochistan. India can put pressure on Pakistan to stop it, and stop the bloodshed, torture and the violence," he said. Brahmdagh Bugti has claimed that he is ready to have a dialogue with the Pakistan government on some conditions, but the government has not acknowledged the same. "Dialogue is a political thing. In no political situation can anyone reject a dialogue. I am ready for it, but the Pakistan government has not reached out to me recently. There have been few messages but nothing major." Also read| Pakistan's 'all-weather friend' China faces heat in PoK over dams The entry of China in Pakistan through the CPEC project, Bugti believes, is a destructive policy for the people of Baloch. "What we want for our future is on us to decide. Whether we want schools, universities, roads, port, or not is for us to decide. We should get to decide what happens on our land, and not someone else sitting in Islamabad or Beijing," he expressed. He also added that people who disagree with these decisions are labelled as terrorists, traitors, and criminals. Bugti also claimed that the locals have no idea about what is being built there, and the locals are moved from one place to another on gunpoint for the project. Talking about attacks on the Chinese workers in Balochistan, Bugti stressed that the incidents were not attacks but defense. "They are defensive actions. Attacking is going to someone's land and attacking, but they are only doing this in Balochistan," he said. "These are not justified because we are against violence, but these are normal reactions," he added. WION did extensive group reports from Balochistan focusing on the military role in forced disappearances from 2017. Bugti claims the situation has worsened since then. While the Uighur Muslim group in China and the Tibet group are getting global support, Balochistan has not yet got as much support. "We are trying our best, and we have hope. A lot of people claim but in reality, there is nothing. If India supports us now, things will be different." Talking about the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Bugti alleged Khan of changing his words every day. "People are making jokes and laughing. If you see social media and even the local media, things are in a mess. Everybody is laughing at the situation," Bugti laughed. "It is not Imran Khan, but the people behind him. It points towards their stupidity that they chose (Imran Khan) for such a position," he added.

EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support

Pakistan continues to engage with China and conduct military exercises -- and that too, not far away from India’s coastal borders.

According to a Forbes report, Pakistani Navy submarines were seen parked in the middle of Chinese Navy warships near Karachi.

Also, Pakistan is reportedly set to add eight Chinese-made Type-039B Yuan Class warships to its fleet. 
Satellite imageries picked up by private intelligence consultancy named ShadowBreak Intl confirmed that Pakistan Navy’s Agosta-90B type submarine – Hashmat-class – was docked next to Chinese ships near Karachi.

The Forbes report say the Chinese naval ships were on a joint exercise with the Pakistani fleet in January, called ‘Sea Guardian-2020’. The submarine exercise was conducted in one of Karachi’s cordoned-off commercial docks, not their usual ones.

Islamabad operates five French-designed Agosta-class submarines, of which three are improved versions with the Air independent Power (AIP) technology. This class of submarines is potent and one of the more modern machines in the Pakistani arsenal.&nbsp;

Besides the AIP, the subs have AS-39 Exocet anti-ship missiles and state-of-the-art combat systems. It’s also expected to be the launchpad for the country’s homegrown Babur-3 nuclear-capable cruise missile.

Pakistan continues to engage with China and conduct military exercises -- and that too, not far away from India’s coastal borders. According to a Forbes report, Pakistani Navy submarines were seen parked in the middle of Chinese Navy warships near Karachi.

Pakistan continues to engage with China and conduct military exercises -- and that too, not far away from India’s coastal borders. According to a Forbes report, Pakistani Navy submarines were seen parked in the middle of Chinese Navy warships near Karachi. Also, Pakistan is reportedly set to add eight Chinese-made Type-039B Yuan Class warships to its fleet. Satellite imageries picked up by private intelligence consultancy named ShadowBreak Intl confirmed that Pakistan Navy’s Agosta-90B type submarine – Hashmat-class – was docked next to Chinese ships near Karachi. The Forbes report say the Chinese naval ships were on a joint exercise with the Pakistani fleet in January, called ‘Sea Guardian-2020’. The submarine exercise was conducted in one of Karachi’s cordoned-off commercial docks, not their usual ones. Islamabad operates five French-designed Agosta-class submarines, of which three are improved versions with the Air independent Power (AIP) technology. This class of submarines is potent and one of the more modern machines in the Pakistani arsenal. Besides the AIP, the subs have AS-39 Exocet anti-ship missiles and state-of-the-art combat systems. It’s also expected to be the launchpad for the country’s homegrown Babur-3 nuclear-capable cruise missile.

Satellite images show Pakistan’s military build-up at sea, says report

Pakistan has brought its all-weather friend China for its sinister Afghanistan agenda, an agreement that could make the United States' efforts for a peace deal irrelevant.&nbsp;

A new report has claimed that China and Pakistan have begun an "unprecedented intelligence sharing agreement" that allows Beijing to spread its tentacles in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

According to this report, China aims to fulfil multiple objectives with the arrangements.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-foreign-minister-says-pakistani-terror-groups-have-symbiotic-relations-with-al-qaeda-is-318709">Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS</a>

These objectives include denying Uighurs a safe haven in Afghanistan.

Reportedly, Pakistan and China have secured pledges from the Taliban to not support the Uighurs.&nbsp;

China also aims economic expansion in this region and trying hard to take its Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) to Afghanistan.&nbsp;

It has already reserved major mineral stockpiles for itself.&nbsp;

In 2007, a state-owned Chinese company outbid everyone to win rights over 11 million tons of copper in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The deal was worth more than $3 billion, but its details are inaccessible, mainly due to the volatile security situation.&nbsp;

Another objective of China is to gain an advantage over India in South Asia.

By building a string of pearls through ports and other infrastructure, China has tried to encircle India on the high seas.&nbsp;

Beijing could be trying to accomplish a similar encirclement through land via Pakistan.

Reportedly, the intelligence-sharing has begun. China has granted the Pakistani defence ministry access to its high-level meetings.&nbsp;

These meetings are part of China's central military commission that is chaired by Chinese President Xi Jinping himself.&nbsp;

Usually, these meetings of the joint staff department are a secret gathering and attendees are only senior Chinese leaders.

However, reports suggest, a Pakistani general is now allowed to be a part of these meetings as an observer.&nbsp;

The US intelligence community is worried and the fear is US withdrawal from the region could open doors for China's entry.&nbsp;

Pakistan has brought its all-weather friend China for its sinister Afghanistan agenda, an agreement that could make the United States' efforts for a peace deal irrelevant.

Pakistan has brought its all-weather friend China for its sinister Afghanistan agenda, an agreement that could make the United States' efforts for a peace deal irrelevant. A new report has claimed that China and Pakistan have begun an "unprecedented intelligence sharing agreement" that allows Beijing to spread its tentacles in Afghanistan. According to this report, China aims to fulfil multiple objectives with the arrangements. Also read | Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS These objectives include denying Uighurs a safe haven in Afghanistan. Reportedly, Pakistan and China have secured pledges from the Taliban to not support the Uighurs. China also aims economic expansion in this region and trying hard to take its Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) to Afghanistan. It has already reserved major mineral stockpiles for itself. In 2007, a state-owned Chinese company outbid everyone to win rights over 11 million tons of copper in Afghanistan. The deal was worth more than $3 billion, but its details are inaccessible, mainly due to the volatile security situation. Another objective of China is to gain an advantage over India in South Asia. By building a string of pearls through ports and other infrastructure, China has tried to encircle India on the high seas. Beijing could be trying to accomplish a similar encirclement through land via Pakistan. Reportedly, the intelligence-sharing has begun. China has granted the Pakistani defence ministry access to its high-level meetings. These meetings are part of China's central military commission that is chaired by Chinese President Xi Jinping himself. Usually, these meetings of the joint staff department are a secret gathering and attendees are only senior Chinese leaders. However, reports suggest, a Pakistani general is now allowed to be a part of these meetings as an observer. The US intelligence community is worried and the fear is US withdrawal from the region could open doors for China's entry.

Pakistan-China intelligence-sharing deal threatens US peace efforts in Afghanistan

If there were any doubts that China's tentacles run deep in the Oli administration

Pakistan, a&nbsp;vassal state of China, is extending help to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in these troubled times.&nbsp;Imran khan has reached out to his Nepal counterpart. Khan&nbsp;plans to speak to Oli over the phone.

Unable to tackle the coronavirus in Pakistan, Imran Khan is now fishing in the troubled waters of Nepal's politics.

Pakistan's misplaced priorities

Pakistan is going through a wave of crisis. The coronavirus has taken close to 5,000 lives in the country. In the last two months, Pakistan has witnessed a fatal plane crash and an attack on its stock exchange.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pressure-mounts-on-napalese-pm-rift-between-pm-sharma-oli-and-prachanda-310188">Also watch|&nbsp;Pressure mounts on Napalese PM: Rift between PM Sharma Oli and Prachanda</a>

Imran khan rose to power as a messiah for Pakistan but&nbsp;in the recent months, he has only added more misery to the lives of Pakistanis.

But, Imran Khan couldn't care less as his focus is on Nepal and the internal turmoil within the country's ruling party.

So when KP Sharma Oli accused India of trying to topple his government on Sunday, Imran Khan responded on cue. He ordered his diplomats to reach out to Kathmandu and set up a call with Oli.

The embassy of Pakistan in Nepal typed up a letter and even&nbsp;suggested a time -- 12 noon on July 02.

However, whether the call happened or not is unclear as Oli had&nbsp;went to see the President of Nepal around that time in an attempt to save his government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-olis-chest-pain-real-or-a-play-to-buy-time-310292">Also read|&nbsp;Nepal PM Oli's chest pain: real or a play to buy time?</a>

As china has tried to seize the Indian territory, Pakistan and Nepal have been steady pillars of support for Beijing. The Pakistani government and Imran Khan himself have relentlessly attacked India.

Oli launched a tirade of his own, first by claiming disputed territories in a new map and then, by accusing India of a ploy to unseat him.

The fact is that Oli's own party wants him to step down.

China's support to the embattled Prime Minister has been steady. Oli has held consultations with the Chinese ambassador.&nbsp;His proximity to China is no secret.&nbsp;In 2016, when Oli was unseated from power, Chinese state mouthpiece, the Global Times blamed Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Dahal, famously known as Prachand, has held the Prime Minister's post twice and he was in an coalition government with Oli but withdrew his support. Four years later, both leaders find themselves on the same crossroads, but this time, China and its allies have rushed in to strengthen Oli's hand.

If there were any doubts that China's tentacles run deep in the Oli administration Pakistan, a vassal state of China, is extending help to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in these troubled times.

If there were any doubts that China's tentacles run deep in the Oli administration Pakistan, a vassal state of China, is extending help to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in these troubled times. Imran khan has reached out to his Nepal counterpart. Khan plans to speak to Oli over the phone. Unable to tackle the coronavirus in Pakistan, Imran Khan is now fishing in the troubled waters of Nepal's politics. Pakistan's misplaced priorities Pakistan is going through a wave of crisis. The coronavirus has taken close to 5,000 lives in the country. In the last two months, Pakistan has witnessed a fatal plane crash and an attack on its stock exchange. Also watch| Pressure mounts on Napalese PM: Rift between PM Sharma Oli and Prachanda Imran khan rose to power as a messiah for Pakistan but in the recent months, he has only added more misery to the lives of Pakistanis. But, Imran Khan couldn't care less as his focus is on Nepal and the internal turmoil within the country's ruling party. So when KP Sharma Oli accused India of trying to topple his government on Sunday, Imran Khan responded on cue. He ordered his diplomats to reach out to Kathmandu and set up a call with Oli. The embassy of Pakistan in Nepal typed up a letter and even suggested a time -- 12 noon on July 02. However, whether the call happened or not is unclear as Oli had went to see the President of Nepal around that time in an attempt to save his government. Also read| Nepal PM Oli's chest pain: real or a play to buy time? As china has tried to seize the Indian territory, Pakistan and Nepal have been steady pillars of support for Beijing. The Pakistani government and Imran Khan himself have relentlessly attacked India. Oli launched a tirade of his own, first by claiming disputed territories in a new map and then, by accusing India of a ploy to unseat him. The fact is that Oli's own party wants him to step down. China's support to the embattled Prime Minister has been steady. Oli has held consultations with the Chinese ambassador. His proximity to China is no secret. In 2016, when Oli was unseated from power, Chinese state mouthpiece, the Global Times blamed Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Dahal, famously known as Prachand, has held the Prime Minister's post twice and he was in an coalition government with Oli but withdrew his support. Four years later, both leaders find themselves on the same crossroads, but this time, China and its allies have rushed in to strengthen Oli's hand.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems

How Pakistan, China are developing nuclear triad

A committee looking into losses in Pakistan's power sector has dug out a $630 Million scam. The money trail leads all the way to China. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the details.

Gravitas: Did China rob Pakistan of $630 Million?

Pakistan has resumed work on all B.R.I projects. The Pakistan govt plans to use Chinese funds to overcome economic shortcomings. What does Beijing get in return? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: Pakistan resumes work on B.R.I projects

Pakistan has refused to airlift and evacuate its citizens from Wuhan despite several appeals from families of those based in the epicentre of coronavirus outbreak.

China: Pak students plead for their govt's help

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage.

This time — a fresh letter was drafted on the behalf of Islamabad, Vietnam and Beijing.United Nations has maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

The efforts were meant to revive the failed December 2019 bid to raise Kashmir at the UNSC. The council did not take up a letter by Pakistan last month — after India pushed back strongly with the help of its supporters in the council — mainly France and the US.

Meanwhile — deputy representative of Russia to the UN has also reacted to China's move.

He said and I quote — UNSC discussed Kashmir in closed consultations. Russia firmly stands for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

He also said that Russia is hopeful that differences will be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration.

India slammed the move — asking Islamabad to focus on issues like sheltering terrorists.

The Indian envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that — China got a stinging response when it raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal consultation.

Reports suggest that the Chinese-Pakistani plan was meant to set the stage for Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to the US.

Foreign minister Qureshi has arrived the US for a three-day visit.

Meanwhile — in Kashmir — the valley has brought some slow but gradual signs of normalcy.

Like the release of political detainees, visit of European parliament MPs, the successful conduct of football matches, and the restoration of the internet in Kargil.

While New Delhi is taking notes — that China has raised the issue of Kashmir twice after the Mamallapuram summit between President Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi.

Beijing has also not yielded on any of its core interests apart from siding with Islamabad on major diplomatic fronts.

This when India has reiterated its stance — that Kashmir remains an internal matter.

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage.

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage. This time — a fresh letter was drafted on the behalf of Islamabad, Vietnam and Beijing.United Nations has maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. The efforts were meant to revive the failed December 2019 bid to raise Kashmir at the UNSC. The council did not take up a letter by Pakistan last month — after India pushed back strongly with the help of its supporters in the council — mainly France and the US. Meanwhile — deputy representative of Russia to the UN has also reacted to China's move. He said and I quote — UNSC discussed Kashmir in closed consultations. Russia firmly stands for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan. He also said that Russia is hopeful that differences will be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration. India slammed the move — asking Islamabad to focus on issues like sheltering terrorists. The Indian envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that — China got a stinging response when it raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal consultation. Reports suggest that the Chinese-Pakistani plan was meant to set the stage for Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to the US. Foreign minister Qureshi has arrived the US for a three-day visit. Meanwhile — in Kashmir — the valley has brought some slow but gradual signs of normalcy. Like the release of political detainees, visit of European parliament MPs, the successful conduct of football matches, and the restoration of the internet in Kargil. While New Delhi is taking notes — that China has raised the issue of Kashmir twice after the Mamallapuram summit between President Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi. Beijing has also not yielded on any of its core interests apart from siding with Islamabad on major diplomatic fronts. This when India has reiterated its stance — that Kashmir remains an internal matter.

Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again

Pakistan is keen to have a "proper relationship" with the US similar to Islamabad's all-weather ties with China rather than being humiliated and treated like a "hired gun", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said.

The ties between Washington and Islamabad strained, especially after President Donald Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan.

In September, the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups. Last month, Trump said castigated Pakistan once again, saying it was not doing "a damn thing" for America in curbing terrorism.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-new-law-to-deal-with-money-laundering-180662">Prime Minister Khan</a>, in an interview with The Washington Post on Thursday, said: "I would never want to have a relationship where Pakistan is treated like a hired gun? given money to fight someone else's war," Khan said, referring to the 1980s war against the Soviet Union and the ongoing war on terror.

"It not only cost us human lives, the devastation of our tribal areas, but it also cost us our dignity," he said.

When asked to elaborate on the ideal nature of the relationship that he would like to have with Washington, Khan added: "For instance, our relationship with China is not one-dimensional. It's a trade relationship between two countries. We want a similar relationship with the US."

The prime minister said Pakistan was not "hedging" towards China, rather it was Washington's attitude which had brought a change in the bilateral relationship.

The cricketer-turned-politician rejected the notion that he was "anti-US", saying that disagreeing with Washington's policies did not make him "anti-American".

"This is a very imperialistic approach. 'You're either with me or against me'," he said.

When asked if he wanted relations between Pakistan and the US to "warm up", Khan responded: "Who would not want to be friends with a superpower?"

This week, Khan said President Trump wrote to him, seeking Pakistan's help in bringing the Afghan Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan.

Welcoming the US bid to engage in talks with the Afghan Taliban, he emphasised that Islamabad did not want the US to leave Afghanistan in a hurry as they did in 1989.&nbsp;

"The last thing we want is to have chaos in Afghanistan. There should be a settlement this time. In 1989, what happened was the Taliban emerged out of the chaos," he said.

Khan condemned the 2011 covert US operation in Abbottabad that killed Al Qaida chief Osama bin Laden, who was hiding in the Pakistani garrison city.&nbsp;

Khan said it was "humiliating" that the US did not trust Pakistan to kill the most wanted terrorist.

"It was humiliating that we were losing our soldiers and civilians and [suffering terrorist] bomb attacks because we were participating in the US war, and then our ally did not trust us to kill bin Laden," he regretted and added that the US "should have tipped off Pakistan".

Khan also dismissed US' allegations that there were safe havens for terrorists in Pakistan, saying that the security forces had briefed him on the matter and told him that they had asked Washington "time and time again" to point out where the sanctuaries are.

However, he did not discount the possibility of some Afghan Taliban, "maybe 2,000 to 3,000" crossing the border under the guise of refugees and residing in camps.

The prime minister also discussed his recent spat with US President Trump, clarifying that it was not a "Twitter war, it was just setting the record right".

He said the exchange of words with President Trump on Twitter was "about being blamed for deeply flawed US policies? the military approach to Afghanistan."

The prime minister reiterated his plan to end poverty from Pakistan, with or without the International Monetary Fund's bailout.

He said Pakistan has received monetary help from Saudi Arabia, China and the United Arab Emirates, but said the latter two countries wanted the figures to remain "confidential".&nbsp;

Pakistan is keen to have a "proper relationship" with the US similar to Islamabad's all-weather ties with China rather than being humiliated and treated like a "hired gun", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said.

Pakistan is keen to have a "proper relationship" with the US similar to Islamabad's all-weather ties with China rather than being humiliated and treated like a "hired gun", Prime Minister Imran Khan has said. The ties between Washington and Islamabad strained, especially after President Donald Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan. In September, the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups. Last month, Trump said castigated Pakistan once again, saying it was not doing "a damn thing" for America in curbing terrorism. Prime Minister Khan, in an interview with The Washington Post on Thursday, said: "I would never want to have a relationship where Pakistan is treated like a hired gun? given money to fight someone else's war," Khan said, referring to the 1980s war against the Soviet Union and the ongoing war on terror. "It not only cost us human lives, the devastation of our tribal areas, but it also cost us our dignity," he said. When asked to elaborate on the ideal nature of the relationship that he would like to have with Washington, Khan added: "For instance, our relationship with China is not one-dimensional. It's a trade relationship between two countries. We want a similar relationship with the US." The prime minister said Pakistan was not "hedging" towards China, rather it was Washington's attitude which had brought a change in the bilateral relationship. The cricketer-turned-politician rejected the notion that he was "anti-US", saying that disagreeing with Washington's policies did not make him "anti-American". "This is a very imperialistic approach. 'You're either with me or against me'," he said. When asked if he wanted relations between Pakistan and the US to "warm up", Khan responded: "Who would not want to be friends with a superpower?" This week, Khan said President Trump wrote to him, seeking Pakistan's help in bringing the Afghan Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan. Welcoming the US bid to engage in talks with the Afghan Taliban, he emphasised that Islamabad did not want the US to leave Afghanistan in a hurry as they did in 1989. "The last thing we want is to have chaos in Afghanistan. There should be a settlement this time. In 1989, what happened was the Taliban emerged out of the chaos," he said. Khan condemned the 2011 covert US operation in Abbottabad that killed Al Qaida chief Osama bin Laden, who was hiding in the Pakistani garrison city. Khan said it was "humiliating" that the US did not trust Pakistan to kill the most wanted terrorist. "It was humiliating that we were losing our soldiers and civilians and [suffering terrorist] bomb attacks because we were participating in the US war, and then our ally did not trust us to kill bin Laden," he regretted and added that the US "should have tipped off Pakistan". Khan also dismissed US' allegations that there were safe havens for terrorists in Pakistan, saying that the security forces had briefed him on the matter and told him that they had asked Washington "time and time again" to point out where the sanctuaries are. However, he did not discount the possibility of some Afghan Taliban, "maybe 2,000 to 3,000" crossing the border under the guise of refugees and residing in camps. The prime minister also discussed his recent spat with US President Trump, clarifying that it was not a "Twitter war, it was just setting the record right". He said the exchange of words with President Trump on Twitter was "about being blamed for deeply flawed US policies? the military approach to Afghanistan." The prime minister reiterated his plan to end poverty from Pakistan, with or without the International Monetary Fund's bailout. He said Pakistan has received monetary help from Saudi Arabia, China and the United Arab Emirates, but said the latter two countries wanted the figures to remain "confidential".

Don't want Pakistan to be treated like a 'hired gun': PM Khan on strained ties with US

A senior Chinese diplomat on Monday said that some Chinese citizens have donated money for the families of two Pakistani policemen killed in the terror attack on China's consulate in Karachi.

At a ceremony in Islamabad alongside Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Chinese Embassy, Lijian Zhao, said the Chinese citizens had donated money on their own.

Three heavily-armed suicide bombers on Friday stormed the Chinese consulate in Pakistan's largest city, killing four people, including two policemen, before being shot dead by security forces. The attack was claimed by the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

Lijian said one Chinese citizen had donated a month's salary to support the families of the slain policemen.

He said the donors believed that the Pakistan-China friendship was not simply empty words but "rooted in the hearts of the people of the two countries".

"We want to give a message to the terrorists that their efforts at sabotaging Pak-China friendship will never succeed," he said.

Earlier Lijian tweeted that the donations by the Chinese showed the depth of bilateral relations between the two nations.

"Chinese donations for Pakistan police have shown that China-Pakistan friendship is higher than mountains and deeper than the seas. The friendship has never been empty talks, but deeply imprinted in hearts of Chinese and Pakistani people," he said.

A senior Chinese diplomat on Monday said that some Chinese citizens have donated money for the families of two Pakistani policemen killed in the terror attack on China's consulate in Karachi.

A senior Chinese diplomat on Monday said that some Chinese citizens have donated money for the families of two Pakistani policemen killed in the terror attack on China's consulate in Karachi. At a ceremony in Islamabad alongside Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Chinese Embassy, Lijian Zhao, said the Chinese citizens had donated money on their own. Three heavily-armed suicide bombers on Friday stormed the Chinese consulate in Pakistan's largest city, killing four people, including two policemen, before being shot dead by security forces. The attack was claimed by the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Lijian said one Chinese citizen had donated a month's salary to support the families of the slain policemen. He said the donors believed that the Pakistan-China friendship was not simply empty words but "rooted in the hearts of the people of the two countries". "We want to give a message to the terrorists that their efforts at sabotaging Pak-China friendship will never succeed," he said. Earlier Lijian tweeted that the donations by the Chinese showed the depth of bilateral relations between the two nations. "Chinese donations for Pakistan police have shown that China-Pakistan friendship is higher than mountains and deeper than the seas. The friendship has never been empty talks, but deeply imprinted in hearts of Chinese and Pakistani people," he said.

Chinese citizens donate money for families of Pakistan cops killed in terror attack on Karachi consulate

Pakistan Government wants $3 Billion for CPEC

Pakistan will review its &#39;lenient&#39; visa policy for Chinese nationals to plug the loopholes in the current system, weeks after the killing of two Chinese &#39;missionaries&#39; who entered the country on business visas.

The conditions and requirements for issuance of business and work visas to the Chinese nationals will be reviewed, the Interior Ministry said in a statement yesterday.

The decision comes days after Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan had been informed that the murdered Chinese citizens were missionaries who were part of a group of Chinese nationals which obtained business visas and entered Pakistan.

Chinese nationals - Lee Zing Yang, 24, and Meng Li Si, 26 had been kidnapped in the city of Quetta in Balochistan province on May 24 by unknown gunmen and later murdered.

Islamic State terror group claimed responsibility for their killing.

&quot;The decision has been taken to ensure transparency in the visa process and also to preclude misuse of visa-friendly regime that exists between the two countries,&quot; it said.

It was part of efforts to ensure maximum security of the Chinese nationals visiting Pakistan on various visa categories and to streamline and regulate the entire process of visa issuance to Chinese nationals, the statement said.

According to officials, the murdered Chinese nationals were &quot;misusing their business visas&quot;.

Taking note of a few incidents of showing forged and fake documents of ghost companies, it was decided to regulate the process of granting extensions in business visas and the authority to extend such visas have been transferred from the regional passport offices to headquarters in Islamabad.

Pakistani missions abroad would issue a maximum of one year multiple entry work visa and further extensions in work visa would be granted by the Ministry of Interior only.

Khan said that a comprehensive mechanism should be put in place for sharing of information of not only $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor related workers but also of other Chinese nationals visiting the country.

Keeping in view various issues being faced by the foreign spouses who are married to Pakistani nationals, it was decided to re-introduce Pakistan Origin Cards to the foreign spouses after addressing certain issues that led to suspension of these cards.&nbsp;

The proposal comes after two Chinese 'missionaries', who entered the country on business visas, were allegedly killed by Islamic State

Pakistan will review its 'lenient' visa policy for Chinese nationals to plug the loopholes in the current system, weeks after the killing of two Chinese 'missionaries' who entered the country on business visas. The conditions and requirements for issuance of business and work visas to the Chinese nationals will be reviewed, the Interior Ministry said in a statement yesterday. The decision comes days after Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan had been informed that the murdered Chinese citizens were missionaries who were part of a group of Chinese nationals which obtained business visas and entered Pakistan. Chinese nationals - Lee Zing Yang, 24, and Meng Li Si, 26 had been kidnapped in the city of Quetta in Balochistan province on May 24 by unknown gunmen and later murdered. Islamic State terror group claimed responsibility for their killing. "The decision has been taken to ensure transparency in the visa process and also to preclude misuse of visa-friendly regime that exists between the two countries," it said. It was part of efforts to ensure maximum security of the Chinese nationals visiting Pakistan on various visa categories and to streamline and regulate the entire process of visa issuance to Chinese nationals, the statement said. According to officials, the murdered Chinese nationals were "misusing their business visas". Taking note of a few incidents of showing forged and fake documents of ghost companies, it was decided to regulate the process of granting extensions in business visas and the authority to extend such visas have been transferred from the regional passport offices to headquarters in Islamabad. Pakistani missions abroad would issue a maximum of one year multiple entry work visa and further extensions in work visa would be granted by the Ministry of Interior only. Khan said that a comprehensive mechanism should be put in place for sharing of information of not only $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor related workers but also of other Chinese nationals visiting the country. Keeping in view various issues being faced by the foreign spouses who are married to Pakistani nationals, it was decided to re-introduce Pakistan Origin Cards to the foreign spouses after addressing certain issues that led to suspension of these cards.

Pakistan set to tighten 'lenient' Chinese visa policy after 'IS killings'

Pakistan is likely to purchase warships from China and Turkey for safeguarding its strategic Gwadar sea port, a report in Pakistan daily The Express Tribune stated.

The daily quoted a Pakistan Navy official as saying that the navy was considering buying the super-fast ships for its special squadron which would be deployed at the Gwadar port.

&quot;A squadron may have four to six warships,&rdquo; the official of Pakistan Navy told The Express Tribune on the sidelines of an on-going defence exhibition at Karachi.

The ships would be brought soon, the official said, adding that the role of maritime forces had increased in the country after the construction of the Gwadar seaport and increased activity under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistani defence officials are keen that the Chinese navy build up its presence in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea in order to counter India&#39;s formidable naval force.

Russia to use Gwadar port for exports: Report

Pakistan has also reportedly approved Russia&#39;s request to use the Gwadar port for its exports even as the country showed its willingness to be part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a Pakistani official was quoted as saying by Pakistan daily Geo News.

&quot;Russia also wants to join the USD 46 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor to reap the maximum dividends. In addition, Russia aspires to develop strategic defence ties with Pakistan,&quot; the daily reported.

The move signals a new alignment in bilateral relations after decades of sour ties during the Cold War era.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is on two-day visit to Turkmenistan, also welcomed &nbsp;Russia&#39;s decision to join CPEC, Geo News reported.

Its relations with the US deteriorated after the 2011 killing of al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in in Abbottabad by the CIA. Relations with the US also hit a roadblock recently when US lawmakers blocked funds for the sale of eight Lockheed Martin Corporation&#39;s F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.

The country is now eager to improve its ties with Russia to diversify its defence purchase options in the event of any stalemate in ties with Washington, experts say.&nbsp;

China and Pakistan are building the nearly 3,000-km-long economic corridor which links the Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea with the Muslim-majority Xinjiang province to improve connectivity between the two countries.

Sharif also announced building railways, road and fiber-optic along with the Turkmenistan-Pakistan-Afghanistan-India (TAPI) 1,680-kilometer-long gas pipeline to enhance connectivity between South Asia and Central Asia.

He said that TAPI would supply 400 billion cubic feet gas to the three member states in which Pakistan&#39;s share would be three hundred billion feet of gas.

(WION) 
&nbsp;

Pakistan is reportedly keen the Chinese navy build up its presence in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea to counter Indian Navy

Pakistan is likely to purchase warships from China and Turkey for safeguarding its strategic Gwadar sea port, a report in Pakistan daily The Express Tribune stated. The daily quoted a Pakistan Navy official as saying that the navy was considering buying the super-fast ships for its special squadron which would be deployed at the Gwadar port. "A squadron may have four to six warships,” the official of Pakistan Navy told The Express Tribune on the sidelines of an on-going defence exhibition at Karachi. The ships would be brought soon, the official said, adding that the role of maritime forces had increased in the country after the construction of the Gwadar seaport and increased activity under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Pakistani defence officials are keen that the Chinese navy build up its presence in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea in order to counter India's formidable naval force. Russia to use Gwadar port for exports: Report Pakistan has also reportedly approved Russia's request to use the Gwadar port for its exports even as the country showed its willingness to be part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a Pakistani official was quoted as saying by Pakistan daily Geo News. "Russia also wants to join the USD 46 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor to reap the maximum dividends. In addition, Russia aspires to develop strategic defence ties with Pakistan," the daily reported. The move signals a new alignment in bilateral relations after decades of sour ties during the Cold War era. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is on two-day visit to Turkmenistan, also welcomed Russia's decision to join CPEC, Geo News reported. Its relations with the US deteriorated after the 2011 killing of al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in in Abbottabad by the CIA. Relations with the US also hit a roadblock recently when US lawmakers blocked funds for the sale of eight Lockheed Martin Corporation's F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan. The country is now eager to improve its ties with Russia to diversify its defence purchase options in the event of any stalemate in ties with Washington, experts say. China and Pakistan are building the nearly 3,000-km-long economic corridor which links the Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea with the Muslim-majority Xinjiang province to improve connectivity between the two countries. Sharif also announced building railways, road and fiber-optic along with the Turkmenistan-Pakistan-Afghanistan-India (TAPI) 1,680-kilometer-long gas pipeline to enhance connectivity between South Asia and Central Asia. He said that TAPI would supply 400 billion cubic feet gas to the three member states in which Pakistan's share would be three hundred billion feet of gas. (WION)

Pakistan to deploy Chinese warships at Gwadar, permits Russia to use sea port for exports

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