In a diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan and Iran have mutually decided to restore their respective ambassadors by January 26. The agreement follows a constructive telephone conversation between Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The joint press statement on Monday (Jan 22) revealed this positive development, indicating a step towards normalisation.

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🔊: PR NO. 2️⃣3️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣ 
 
Joint Press Statement of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran 
 
🔗⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/4ScCGZJKPz">https://t.co/4ScCGZJKPz</a> <a href="https://t.co/7ajcpnkZrz">pic.twitter.com/7ajcpnkZrz</a>
— Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/1749371484248646050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Further reinforcing diplomatic ties, Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian is set to visit Pakistan on January 29, responding to an invitation extended by Jilani.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-why-did-iran-attack-pakistan-what-is-jaish-al-adl-680852">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran?</a>

<h2>Escalation and de-escalation: Background of recent tensions</h2>

The recent diplomatic tensions arose when Pakistan recalled its ambassador from Iran and suspended high-level visits following the killing of Pakistani children in airstrikes following Iran's violation of Pakistani airspace.

However, both countries are now signalling a commitment to restoring relations to their previous amicable state.

Pakistani caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar emphasised the mutual interest of both nations in taking steps to restore relations, acknowledging the importance of positive measures from Iran.

Kakar expressed Pakistan's readiness to reciprocate such measures, indicating a desire for cooperation and reconciliation.

Underneath the surface of "friendly and brotherly" relations lie concerns about the use of each other's soil by certain terrorist groups.

Both countries have pointed fingers regarding terrorist outfits finding refuge across the border. To prevent such incidents in the future, Pakistan and Iran are considering a new mechanism, with proposals including strengthening existing mechanisms and deepening intelligence cooperation.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan gears up for national elections | Inside South Asia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-gears-up-for-national-elections-inside-south-asia-681743/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The proposed solutions aim to enhance cooperation in the fight against terrorism instead of violating each other's sovereignty. These suggestions will be discussed during diplomatic engagements between the two nations, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address security concerns.

The National Security Committee in Pakistan's meeting referred to the recent events as "minor irritants," indicating a desire to de-escalate tensions. Iran, in response to Pakistan's retaliatory strikes, stressed on its commitment to friendly ties and cooperation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan and Iran have mutually decided to restore their respective ambassadors by January 26. The agreement follows a constructive telephone conversation between Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.

In a diplomatic breakthrough, Pakistan and Iran have mutually decided to restore their respective ambassadors by January 26. The agreement follows a constructive telephone conversation between Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The joint press statement on Monday (Jan 22) revealed this positive development, indicating a step towards normalisation. 🔊: PR NO. 2️⃣3️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣ Joint Press Statement of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran 🔗⬇️ https://t.co/4ScCGZJKPz pic.twitter.com/7ajcpnkZrz — Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) January 22, 2024 × Further reinforcing diplomatic ties, Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian is set to visit Pakistan on January 29, responding to an invitation extended by Jilani. Also read | Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran? Escalation and de-escalation: Background of recent tensions The recent diplomatic tensions arose when Pakistan recalled its ambassador from Iran and suspended high-level visits following the killing of Pakistani children in airstrikes following Iran's violation of Pakistani airspace. However, both countries are now signalling a commitment to restoring relations to their previous amicable state. Pakistani caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar emphasised the mutual interest of both nations in taking steps to restore relations, acknowledging the importance of positive measures from Iran. Kakar expressed Pakistan's readiness to reciprocate such measures, indicating a desire for cooperation and reconciliation. Underneath the surface of "friendly and brotherly" relations lie concerns about the use of each other's soil by certain terrorist groups. Both countries have pointed fingers regarding terrorist outfits finding refuge across the border. To prevent such incidents in the future, Pakistan and Iran are considering a new mechanism, with proposals including strengthening existing mechanisms and deepening intelligence cooperation. Also watch | Pakistan gears up for national elections | Inside South Asia The proposed solutions aim to enhance cooperation in the fight against terrorism instead of violating each other's sovereignty. These suggestions will be discussed during diplomatic engagements between the two nations, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address security concerns. The National Security Committee in Pakistan's meeting referred to the recent events as "minor irritants," indicating a desire to de-escalate tensions. Iran, in response to Pakistan's retaliatory strikes, stressed on its commitment to friendly ties and cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak, Iran envoys to return to their posts days after tit-for-tat cross-border strikes, easing tensions

United States Congressman Scott Perry has expressed "grave concern" over the appointment of Masood Khan as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States and has written a letter to US President Joe Biden. &nbsp;

In the letter he called on the US president to "reject any diplomatic credentials presented" to Khan and also reject any "effort by the government of Pakistan to install this jihadist as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States." The letter was written on January 27.

Calling him a "terrorist sympathiser", Perry in a scathing letter pointed out how Khan has "praised both terrorists and foreign terrorist organisations -&nbsp;including Hizbul Mujahideen – in stark and unsettling terms" and has "encouraged young men to emulate jihadists like Burhan Wani". Burhan, commander of Hizbul Mujahideen was shot down by Indian forces in 2016.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/arms-trade-and-terror-how-the-pakistan-afghanistan-china-link-was-established-decades-ago-412566">Also Read in Pics |&nbsp;Arms, trade and terror: How the Pakistan-Afghan-China link was established decades ago</a>

While Masood's name has sent by Islamabad as Pakistan's envoy, the US State Department has paused on its approval.

The US Congressman in the letter pointed how Khan "lashed out at the United States for designating the leader of Hizbul Mujahideen for sanctions, calling those sanctions “unjustifiable”.

In the two-page letter, it was also noted that Masood Khan in 2019 "willingly appeared" alongside Fazlur Rehman Khalil who is a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) and the founder of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), a US-designated foreign terrorist organization. Khalil has had close ties with Osama bin Laden and&nbsp;cosignatory of Laden's first fatwa, issued in 1998, calling for attacks against the United States.

The letter comes at a time when US-Pakistan ties have hit an all-time low. US President Biden hasn't called Pakistan PM Imran Khan since taking charge last year.

The letter while listing out "Khan’s perverse attachment to Islamic terrorism" said it "exceedingly obvious that Pakistan has embraced its identity as a super terrorist state" even as it highlighted that Masood is a "supporter of the terrorist groups Jamaat-e-Islami".

Pakistan's ambassador-designate has also called on the US to release Aafia Siddiqui who has been convicted of attempting to murder American troops.

Masood Khan's name as Pakistan envoy to US was proposed last year and he &nbsp;supersede Dr Asad Majeed Khan. He had joined Pakistan foreign service in 1980s and has served as Pak envoy to UN, China and even as Pakistan's&nbsp;foreign ministry spokesman. Khan's&nbsp;Twitter account was suspended earlier due to violation of Twitter policies.

United States Congressman Scott Perry has expressed "grave concern" over the appointment of Masood Khan as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States and has written a letter to US President Joe Biden.

United States Congressman Scott Perry has expressed "grave concern" over the appointment of Masood Khan as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States and has written a letter to US President Joe Biden. In the letter he called on the US president to "reject any diplomatic credentials presented" to Khan and also reject any "effort by the government of Pakistan to install this jihadist as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States." The letter was written on January 27. Calling him a "terrorist sympathiser", Perry in a scathing letter pointed out how Khan has "praised both terrorists and foreign terrorist organisations - including Hizbul Mujahideen – in stark and unsettling terms" and has "encouraged young men to emulate jihadists like Burhan Wani". Burhan, commander of Hizbul Mujahideen was shot down by Indian forces in 2016. Also Read in Pics | Arms, trade and terror: How the Pakistan-Afghan-China link was established decades ago While Masood's name has sent by Islamabad as Pakistan's envoy, the US State Department has paused on its approval. The US Congressman in the letter pointed how Khan "lashed out at the United States for designating the leader of Hizbul Mujahideen for sanctions, calling those sanctions “unjustifiable”. In the two-page letter, it was also noted that Masood Khan in 2019 "willingly appeared" alongside Fazlur Rehman Khalil who is a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) and the founder of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), a US-designated foreign terrorist organization. Khalil has had close ties with Osama bin Laden and cosignatory of Laden's first fatwa, issued in 1998, calling for attacks against the United States. The letter comes at a time when US-Pakistan ties have hit an all-time low. US President Biden hasn't called Pakistan PM Imran Khan since taking charge last year. The letter while listing out "Khan’s perverse attachment to Islamic terrorism" said it "exceedingly obvious that Pakistan has embraced its identity as a super terrorist state" even as it highlighted that Masood is a "supporter of the terrorist groups Jamaat-e-Islami". Pakistan's ambassador-designate has also called on the US to release Aafia Siddiqui who has been convicted of attempting to murder American troops. Masood Khan's name as Pakistan envoy to US was proposed last year and he supersede Dr Asad Majeed Khan. He had joined Pakistan foreign service in 1980s and has served as Pak envoy to UN, China and even as Pakistan's foreign ministry spokesman. Khan's Twitter account was suspended earlier due to violation of Twitter policies.

US Congressman asks President Biden to reject Pak's effort to install 'jihadist' envoy

In a major embarrassment, Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a resolution to recall its ambassador to France over the caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. However, the Islamic nation forgot that it doesn't have any envoy to France.&nbsp;

Pakistan's last ambassador to France, Moin-ul-Haq was transferred three months ago to China, according to The News and there has not been a replacement announced yet.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-tensions-with-india-china-to-release-first-pakistani-film-in-almost-40-years-338260">Amid tensions with India, China to release first Pakistani film in almost 40 years</a>

Muslim nations across the world have reacted strongly over French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks on free speech post the beheading of a school teacher who had shown in class cartoons of Prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-pens-letter-to-muslim-leaders-to-counter-islamophobia-after-france-beheading-338577">Pak PM Imran Khan pens letter to Muslim leaders to counter 'Islamophobia' after France beheading</a>

Caricatures of Mohammed are considered blasphemous in Islam and could lead to a death penalty in ultra-conservative Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote a letter to leaders of Muslim countries, asking for a collective response to Islamophobia.

"The recent statements at the leadership level and incidents of desecration of the Holy Koran are a reflection of the increase in Islamophobia that is spreading in European countries," read the letter.&nbsp;

Khan, in a speech on Wednesday, said Muslim lives have been made difficult in France and asked Western countries to respect the sensitivities of devotees.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a major embarrassment, Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a resolution to recall its ambassador to France over the caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. However, the Islamic nation forgot that it doesn't have any envoy to France.

In a major embarrassment, Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a resolution to recall its ambassador to France over the caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. However, the Islamic nation forgot that it doesn't have any envoy to France. Pakistan's last ambassador to France, Moin-ul-Haq was transferred three months ago to China, according to The News and there has not been a replacement announced yet. Also read | Amid tensions with India, China to release first Pakistani film in almost 40 years Muslim nations across the world have reacted strongly over French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks on free speech post the beheading of a school teacher who had shown in class cartoons of Prophet Muhammad. Also read | Pak PM Imran Khan pens letter to Muslim leaders to counter 'Islamophobia' after France beheading Caricatures of Mohammed are considered blasphemous in Islam and could lead to a death penalty in ultra-conservative Pakistan. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote a letter to leaders of Muslim countries, asking for a collective response to Islamophobia. "The recent statements at the leadership level and incidents of desecration of the Holy Koran are a reflection of the increase in Islamophobia that is spreading in European countries," read the letter. Khan, in a speech on Wednesday, said Muslim lives have been made difficult in France and asked Western countries to respect the sensitivities of devotees.

Pakistan's National Assembly passes resolution to recall envoy from France, one that is non-existent

Pakistan's diplomat Munir Akram took charge as the country's new permanent representative to the United Nations here on Friday.

Akram, 74, replaces outgoing envoy Maleeha Lodhi, who had been serving the post since February 2015."I am coming back to the UN post at a time when Pakistan faces imposing challenges in the East and the West. But challenges are always accompanied by opportunities," Akram was quoted by Geo News as saying.

The development came after a plea was filed on Thursday by the Women`s Action Forum (WAF) at the Sindh High Court in Pakistan, which sought Akram`s removal from the post, calling his re-appointment as "illegal and unlawful".

This came after several women's rights bodies had protested over Akram's appointment as the country`s envoy to the UN.

The plea mentioned allegations of domestic abuse against Akram. Citing reports from international media, the WAF alleged that the Pakistani diplomat was involved in assaulting a woman in a domestic violence incident.

Akram, a known hawk on India, had previously served as Pakistan`s permanent representative to the UN for six years from 2002 to 2008. He is said to be anti-India and sharp-tongued.

His appointment came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had returned to the US where he went to participate in the 74th session of United Nations General Assembly session.

As expected, he sought to internationalize India's internal decision to repeal Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir but Pakistan`s stance did not find takers.

On the other hand, Lodhi's exit was being linked to her "failure" to muster international support at the UN on Pakistan`s position on Kashmir.

However, Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal refuted reports that Lodhi was "removed" from the post, in a bid to douse the controversy which had erupted after Akram was announced as Lodhi's successor.&nbsp;

Pakistan's diplomat Munir Akram took charge as the country's new permanent representative to the United Nations here on Friday. Akram, 74, replaces outgoing envoy Maleeha Lodhi, who had been serving the post since February 2015.

Pakistan's diplomat Munir Akram took charge as the country's new permanent representative to the United Nations here on Friday. Akram, 74, replaces outgoing envoy Maleeha Lodhi, who had been serving the post since February 2015."I am coming back to the UN post at a time when Pakistan faces imposing challenges in the East and the West. But challenges are always accompanied by opportunities," Akram was quoted by Geo News as saying. The development came after a plea was filed on Thursday by the Women`s Action Forum (WAF) at the Sindh High Court in Pakistan, which sought Akram`s removal from the post, calling his re-appointment as "illegal and unlawful". This came after several women's rights bodies had protested over Akram's appointment as the country`s envoy to the UN. The plea mentioned allegations of domestic abuse against Akram. Citing reports from international media, the WAF alleged that the Pakistani diplomat was involved in assaulting a woman in a domestic violence incident. Akram, a known hawk on India, had previously served as Pakistan`s permanent representative to the UN for six years from 2002 to 2008. He is said to be anti-India and sharp-tongued. His appointment came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had returned to the US where he went to participate in the 74th session of United Nations General Assembly session. As expected, he sought to internationalize India's internal decision to repeal Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir but Pakistan`s stance did not find takers. On the other hand, Lodhi's exit was being linked to her "failure" to muster international support at the UN on Pakistan`s position on Kashmir. However, Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal refuted reports that Lodhi was "removed" from the post, in a bid to douse the controversy which had erupted after Akram was announced as Lodhi's successor.

Munir Akram takes charge as Pakistan's envoy to United Nations

A day after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan left New York after a week-long visit to United Nation General Assembly, Islamabad has announced that it has replaced its envoy to United Nations Maleeha Lodhi. Watch this video to know more.

Pak envoy to UN Maleeha replaced one day after Imran ends US visit

Former Pakistan Envoy to India, Abdul Basit has said that he was expecting BJP led govt to abrogate article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal from Pakistan,&nbsp;he&nbsp;said when he was in India as the Pakistan envoy he had discussed the issue with Indian authorities including BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav.&nbsp;

Here is the full interview:

WION: Did you saw the abrogation of article 370&nbsp;coming?

Abdul Basit: definitely. as you remember in 2014, it was part of the BJP election manifesto and then this year election BJP was very clear that they would work towards&nbsp;the repealing both articles 35 A and 370. So, at least I am not surprised and I have been discussing this with my government as well as informally with Indian authorities. And I am not surprised as a matter of fact.

WION: When you were the high commissioner of India, did you at any time discussed it with Indian officials?

Abdul Basit: I have discussed, many times but informally I would say with Indian officials that there can be serious implications if these articles are abolished. I do remember especially discussing with BJP general secretary Ram Madhav. That was before elections in Jammu and Kashmir. That was on October 24 2014 that I met him and we had a detailed discussion as to how to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. I do remember because I have notes with me. We also discussed the articles and he was emphatic about it and I responded to them that even if you move unilaterally on these things, the dispute will be there. There are UNSC resolutions and both countries are committed to working out a solution following the aspirations of people of J&amp;K. So we had those discussions and he presented his views and I articulated our position on J&amp;K and we said goodbye to each other amicably.

WION: Did Pakistan anticipated such action by India?

Abdul Basit: We will never accept this unilateral decision and as I am sure you must have heard what MP Manish Tiwari Sahib has said&nbsp;(in the&nbsp;Lok Sabha&nbsp;on Tuesday)&nbsp;that this is against Indian constitution and this is illegal and then there are United Nations security council resolutions. Indians themselves have been saying so that they are committed to resolving this issue bilaterally as recently..your external affairs minister met secretary Pompeo. So this whole exercise is in conflict with the Indian constitution, with aspirations of the people of J&amp;K, with UNSC resolutions. India cannot be content with such unilateral steps and no one will accept them.

WION: Is there a sense of shock in Pakistan?

Abdul Basit: There is a sense of outrage in Pakistan. People are disturbed by unilateral steps with Indian govt, people are not happy and we are seeing more problems to come. There will be more problems. India has closed any possibility of a bilateral dialogue on Kashmir and we will seek UN Mediation on this because if India has acted against its own long-held bilateral position on J&amp;K. Pakistan has no avenue but to go to the UN or other countries to seek mediation.

Former Pakistan Envoy to India, Abdul Basit has said that he was expecting BJP led govt to abrogate article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Former Pakistan Envoy to India, Abdul Basit has said that he was expecting BJP led govt to abrogate article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal from Pakistan, he said when he was in India as the Pakistan envoy he had discussed the issue with Indian authorities including BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav. Here is the full interview: WION: Did you saw the abrogation of article 370 coming? Abdul Basit: definitely. as you remember in 2014, it was part of the BJP election manifesto and then this year election BJP was very clear that they would work towards the repealing both articles 35 A and 370. So, at least I am not surprised and I have been discussing this with my government as well as informally with Indian authorities. And I am not surprised as a matter of fact. WION: When you were the high commissioner of India, did you at any time discussed it with Indian officials? Abdul Basit: I have discussed, many times but informally I would say with Indian officials that there can be serious implications if these articles are abolished. I do remember especially discussing with BJP general secretary Ram Madhav. That was before elections in Jammu and Kashmir. That was on October 24 2014 that I met him and we had a detailed discussion as to how to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. I do remember because I have notes with me. We also discussed the articles and he was emphatic about it and I responded to them that even if you move unilaterally on these things, the dispute will be there. There are UNSC resolutions and both countries are committed to working out a solution following the aspirations of people of J&K. So we had those discussions and he presented his views and I articulated our position on J&K and we said goodbye to each other amicably. WION: Did Pakistan anticipated such action by India? Abdul Basit: We will never accept this unilateral decision and as I am sure you must have heard what MP Manish Tiwari Sahib has said (in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday) that this is against Indian constitution and this is illegal and then there are United Nations security council resolutions. Indians themselves have been saying so that they are committed to resolving this issue bilaterally as recently..your external affairs minister met secretary Pompeo. So this whole exercise is in conflict with the Indian constitution, with aspirations of the people of J&K, with UNSC resolutions. India cannot be content with such unilateral steps and no one will accept them. WION: Is there a sense of shock in Pakistan? Abdul Basit: There is a sense of outrage in Pakistan. People are disturbed by unilateral steps with Indian govt, people are not happy and we are seeing more problems to come. There will be more problems. India has closed any possibility of a bilateral dialogue on Kashmir and we will seek UN Mediation on this because if India has acted against its own long-held bilateral position on J&K. Pakistan has no avenue but to go to the UN or other countries to seek mediation.

Former Pakistan envoy says he was expecting abrogation of Article 370 by BJP

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-summons-pakistans-envoy-over-deadly-suicide-bomb-attack-report-197911">Iran on Sunday summoned Pakistan ambassador</a> Riffat Masood to lodge a formal protest over a terror attack in the Southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan region that killed 27 of its Revolutionary Guards.&nbsp;

Pakistan based Jaish ul-Adl took the responsibility for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/iran-general-says-pakistan-backs-group-behind-suicide-bomb-197757">the attack</a>. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani pledged to avenge the attack saying, "our nation will certainly take revenge for the blood of these dear martyrs”.

On Friday, India had summoned Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood over Thursday's ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that claimed over 40 lives.&nbsp;

Reactions poured in from Iran condemning the heinous attack. Iran's Commander of Revolution Guards (IRGC) <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/iran-general-says-pakistan-backs-group-behind-suicide-bomb-197757">Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari said</a>, “Iran will retaliate against the group [that conducted the attack] if Pakistan fails to punish them”. Iran's Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani also slammed Pakistan and called on Islamabad to be held accountable for the terror attack.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi called on his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif and said that his country is ready to cooperate to investigate the attack.&nbsp;

India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had made a stopover in Tehran on Saturday while going to Bulgaria and held a meeting with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araqchi. During the meeting, both discussed the recent Pulwama terror attack in India and the attack on Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

The press statement issued by Iran's foreign ministry read, "They condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan and India's Srinagar, and offered sympathy to each other".

Adding further the release said, "The two sides underlined the necessity of establishing peace and calm in the region through dialogue". After the meet, Araqchi tweeted out saying, "we agreed on close cooperation to combat terrorism in the region. Enough is enough!"

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Iran &amp; India suffered from two heinous terrorist attacks in the past few days resulted in big casualties. Today in my meeting with Sushma Swaraj the Indian FM, when she had a stopover in Tehran, we agreed on close cooperation to combat terrorism in the region. Enough is enough! <a href="https://t.co/uvwlx45pZ6">pic.twitter.com/uvwlx45pZ6</a>
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/1096802730881048578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan complains to UNSC about Pakistan

Afghanistan has also come hard on Pakistan. Afghan foreign ministry spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi said Kabul has complained to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) against Islamabad over its engagement with Taliban.

In a tweet, Ahmadi said, "Afghanistan complains to UN Security Council on Pakistan’s engagements with the Taliban on which Afghan Government is not consulted." Elaborating further he said, "It not only undermines the ongoing peace efforts but violates Afghanistan's National Sovereignty, also falls in violation of UNSC Resolution 1988."&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> complains to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNSecurityCouncil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNSecurityCouncil</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>’s engagements with the Taliban on which <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afg</a> Government is not consulted. It not only undermines the ongoing peace efforts but violates Afghanistan's National Sovereignty, also falls in violation of UNSC Resolution 1988. <a href="https://t.co/FtmnwivvX2">pic.twitter.com/FtmnwivvX2</a>
— Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sibghat_Ah/status/1097092008093593600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks along with the United States. The Taliban in a release said at the "formal invitation of the government of Pakistan" meeting was scheduled to take place "between the negotiation teams of the Islamic Emirate and the US on 18th of February 2019 in Islamabad." The meeting now stands cancelled according to reports emanating from Pakistani media. The reason was not known immediately.&nbsp; 
‏ 
In past, Afghanistan had also raised the matter of Pakistan's support to terror in the region and asked Islamabad to stop giving safe haven to terrorists. A number of terror attacks in Afghanistan have been linked to terror outfits based in Pakistan.

India's diplomatic campaign against Pak continues

More diplomatic action is expected from India in the coming week. Argentina's President and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman will meet Prime Minister Modi next week. PM Modi will be travelling to South Korea on a two-day visit starting February 21 where he will meet South Korean President Moon Jae-in. In all the meetings, Pakistan's support to terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack is due to be highlighted.

New Delhi has been calling on Islamabad to take immediate and verifiable action against Jaish-e-Mohammad, however, Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has been saying it needs evidence to crack down on the terror outfit.&nbsp;

India had given evidence of Pakistan's involvement after the Parliament terror attack in 2001, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 and most recently Uri and Pathankote attacks but Islamabad did not take any action on terror infrastructure on its territory.

India, as part of the fallout of the Pulwama attack, has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status (MNF) from Pakistan due to which customs duty on all Pak imports stands at 200 per cent now.&nbsp;

India has also mounted a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mission-to-isolate-pakistan-india-raises-pulwama-terror-attack-issue-at-munich-conference-197912">diplomatic campaign against Pakistan</a> to isolate the South Asian country. New Delhi has briefed as many as 40 envoys from ASEAN, Central Asia, Gulf, members of the United Nations Security Council over Pakistan's involvement in the Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

Iran on Sunday summoned Pakistan ambassador Riffat Masood to lodge a formal protest over a terror attack in the Southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan region that killed 27 of its Revolutionary Guards.

Iran on Sunday summoned Pakistan ambassador Riffat Masood to lodge a formal protest over a terror attack in the Southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan region that killed 27 of its Revolutionary Guards. Pakistan based Jaish ul-Adl took the responsibility for the attack. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani pledged to avenge the attack saying, "our nation will certainly take revenge for the blood of these dear martyrs”. On Friday, India had summoned Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood over Thursday's ghastly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that claimed over 40 lives. Reactions poured in from Iran condemning the heinous attack. Iran's Commander of Revolution Guards (IRGC) Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari said, “Iran will retaliate against the group [that conducted the attack] if Pakistan fails to punish them”. Iran's Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani also slammed Pakistan and called on Islamabad to be held accountable for the terror attack. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi called on his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif and said that his country is ready to cooperate to investigate the attack. India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had made a stopover in Tehran on Saturday while going to Bulgaria and held a meeting with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araqchi. During the meeting, both discussed the recent Pulwama terror attack in India and the attack on Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The press statement issued by Iran's foreign ministry read, "They condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan and India's Srinagar, and offered sympathy to each other". Adding further the release said, "The two sides underlined the necessity of establishing peace and calm in the region through dialogue". After the meet, Araqchi tweeted out saying, "we agreed on close cooperation to combat terrorism in the region. Enough is enough!" Iran & India suffered from two heinous terrorist attacks in the past few days resulted in big casualties. Today in my meeting with Sushma Swaraj the Indian FM, when she had a stopover in Tehran, we agreed on close cooperation to combat terrorism in the region. Enough is enough! pic.twitter.com/uvwlx45pZ6 — Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) February 16, 2019 × Afghanistan complains to UNSC about Pakistan Afghanistan has also come hard on Pakistan. Afghan foreign ministry spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi said Kabul has complained to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) against Islamabad over its engagement with Taliban. In a tweet, Ahmadi said, "Afghanistan complains to UN Security Council on Pakistan’s engagements with the Taliban on which Afghan Government is not consulted." Elaborating further he said, "It not only undermines the ongoing peace efforts but violates Afghanistan's National Sovereignty, also falls in violation of UNSC Resolution 1988." #Afghanistan complains to #UNSecurityCouncil on #Pakistan’s engagements with the Taliban on which #Afg Government is not consulted. It not only undermines the ongoing peace efforts but violates Afghanistan's National Sovereignty, also falls in violation of UNSC Resolution 1988. pic.twitter.com/FtmnwivvX2 — Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) February 17, 2019 × Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks along with the United States. The Taliban in a release said at the "formal invitation of the government of Pakistan" meeting was scheduled to take place "between the negotiation teams of the Islamic Emirate and the US on 18th of February 2019 in Islamabad." The meeting now stands cancelled according to reports emanating from Pakistani media. The reason was not known immediately. ‏ In past, Afghanistan had also raised the matter of Pakistan's support to terror in the region and asked Islamabad to stop giving safe haven to terrorists. A number of terror attacks in Afghanistan have been linked to terror outfits based in Pakistan. India's diplomatic campaign against Pak continues More diplomatic action is expected from India in the coming week. Argentina's President and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman will meet Prime Minister Modi next week. PM Modi will be travelling to South Korea on a two-day visit starting February 21 where he will meet South Korean President Moon Jae-in. In all the meetings, Pakistan's support to terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack is due to be highlighted. New Delhi has been calling on Islamabad to take immediate and verifiable action against Jaish-e-Mohammad, however, Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has been saying it needs evidence to crack down on the terror outfit. India had given evidence of Pakistan's involvement after the Parliament terror attack in 2001, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 and most recently Uri and Pathankote attacks but Islamabad did not take any action on terror infrastructure on its territory. India, as part of the fallout of the Pulwama attack, has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status (MNF) from Pakistan due to which customs duty on all Pak imports stands at 200 per cent now. India has also mounted a diplomatic campaign against Pakistan to isolate the South Asian country. New Delhi has briefed as many as 40 envoys from ASEAN, Central Asia, Gulf, members of the United Nations Security Council over Pakistan's involvement in the Pulwama terror attack.

Neighbours mount pressure on Pakistan: Iran Summons Pak envoy; Afghanistan goes to UNSC against Islamabad

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Quoting Pakistan Prime minister Imran Khan, Mahmood said it is time to move away from the blame game and try to resolve long-standing bilateral issues.

"More and more engagement between both the countries is needed for better mutual understanding and finding common ground. In order to achieve that we need to talk," Mahmood told reporters on the sidelines of a programme here.

Dialogue is indispensable and no issue can be resolved without talking to each other, he said.

His comments come in the backdrop of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad strongly raising with Pakistan the alleged attempts to hack the social media account of one of its diplomats and incidents of close tailing of the Indian envoy and his deputy.

Referring to cancellation of the Indo-Pak foreign minister-level talks in New York last year, Mahmood said both the countries, however, managed to work together for the Kartarpur Corridor initiative.

"The two countries had agreed for foreign ministers' talks in New York. Unfortunately, we saw that it did not materialize, but then again the two countries were able to work together when the Kartarpur initiative was taken and now the two countries will be talking to develop the modalities as well, so we have some process getting underway," he said.

The Pakistan envoy said the relationship of India and Pakistan was complicated and it is a challenge for the two sides to find a way to move forward.

"Again the primary thing is the possibility of sustained engagement that leads to addressing of mutual concerns and finding a common ground to move forward," he said.

Mahmood said Khan had repeatedly stated that both the countries need to have an improved relationship.

"There was a telephonic conversation (of Imran Khan) with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Then there was exchange of letters also in which both sides reiterated the desire for constructive engagement and he (Imran Khan) has said that it is important to move away from the blame game and try to resolve the issues that have been long standing," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations. Quoting Pakistan Prime minister Imran Khan, Mahmood said it is time to move away from the blame game and try to resolve long-standing bilateral issues. "More and more engagement between both the countries is needed for better mutual understanding and finding common ground. In order to achieve that we need to talk," Mahmood told reporters on the sidelines of a programme here. Dialogue is indispensable and no issue can be resolved without talking to each other, he said. His comments come in the backdrop of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad strongly raising with Pakistan the alleged attempts to hack the social media account of one of its diplomats and incidents of close tailing of the Indian envoy and his deputy. Referring to cancellation of the Indo-Pak foreign minister-level talks in New York last year, Mahmood said both the countries, however, managed to work together for the Kartarpur Corridor initiative. "The two countries had agreed for foreign ministers' talks in New York. Unfortunately, we saw that it did not materialize, but then again the two countries were able to work together when the Kartarpur initiative was taken and now the two countries will be talking to develop the modalities as well, so we have some process getting underway," he said. The Pakistan envoy said the relationship of India and Pakistan was complicated and it is a challenge for the two sides to find a way to move forward. "Again the primary thing is the possibility of sustained engagement that leads to addressing of mutual concerns and finding a common ground to move forward," he said. Mahmood said Khan had repeatedly stated that both the countries need to have an improved relationship. "There was a telephonic conversation (of Imran Khan) with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Then there was exchange of letters also in which both sides reiterated the desire for constructive engagement and he (Imran Khan) has said that it is important to move away from the blame game and try to resolve the issues that have been long standing," he said.

Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan

Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said that the country&#39;s envoy to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali did not know who Hafiz Saeed was.

Walid Abu Ali spoke after Hafiz Saeed completed his speech and left dais.&nbsp;

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Our Ambassador doesn&#39;t know this person.When he starts speaking,he asks who is this person?Our Ambassador&#39;s speech was after him,he made his speech &amp; left. For us, even with that, it is not accepted and a decision has been taken: Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija <a href="https://t.co/YPN6APlL0k">pic.twitter.com/YPN6APlL0k</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/947086791378575360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&#39;&#39;Our Ambassador did not know Hafiz Saeed and wondered who he was. Ali spoke after Saeed left the stage. Even that was not acceptable to us. That&#39;s why a decision to recall him from Pakistan has been taken,&#39;&#39; said Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija

Haija reiterated Palestinian&#39;s support to India in its fight against terrorism.&nbsp;

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We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my Government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pak anymore (for sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed): Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija <a href="https://t.co/JMN9b2CXug">pic.twitter.com/JMN9b2CXug</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/947088415828279296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&#39;&#39;We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that our government decided to recall our Ambassador,&#39;&#39; he further said.&nbsp;

He also welcomed Modi to visit Palestine in the near future. &nbsp;

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Mr. Modi is a great guest to Palestine, we welcome him there. I hope soon he will visit Palestine, waiting for his visit: Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija <a href="https://t.co/NfFzTXGC8R">pic.twitter.com/NfFzTXGC8R</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/947089307684110336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&#39;&#39;Modi is a great guest to Palestine and we welcome him. I hope Indian prime minister will visit Palestine. We are all waiting for his visit,&#39;&#39; Haija added

Earlier Palestine government recalled its Ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, for sharing the stage with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is prescribed by the United Nations.&nbsp;

Haija reiterated Palestinian's support to India in its fight against terrorism.

Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said that the country's envoy to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali did not know who Hafiz Saeed was. Walid Abu Ali spoke after Hafiz Saeed completed his speech and left dais. Our Ambassador doesn't know this person.When he starts speaking,he asks who is this person?Our Ambassador's speech was after him,he made his speech & left. For us, even with that, it is not accepted and a decision has been taken: Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija pic.twitter.com/YPN6APlL0k — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017 × ''Our Ambassador did not know Hafiz Saeed and wondered who he was. Ali spoke after Saeed left the stage. Even that was not acceptable to us. That's why a decision to recall him from Pakistan has been taken,'' said Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija Haija reiterated Palestinian's support to India in its fight against terrorism. We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my Government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pak anymore (for sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed): Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija pic.twitter.com/JMN9b2CXug — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017 × ''We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that our government decided to recall our Ambassador,'' he further said. He also welcomed Modi to visit Palestine in the near future. Mr. Modi is a great guest to Palestine, we welcome him there. I hope soon he will visit Palestine, waiting for his visit: Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija pic.twitter.com/NfFzTXGC8R — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017 × ''Modi is a great guest to Palestine and we welcome him. I hope Indian prime minister will visit Palestine. We are all waiting for his visit,'' Haija added Earlier Palestine government recalled its Ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, for sharing the stage with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is prescribed by the United Nations.

Pakistan envoy did not know Hafiz Saeed, says Palestinian Ambassador to India

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