Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi conveyed condolences on the lives lost in Nepal due to COVID-19 and said that Pakistan stands with Nepal in its efforts to deal with the virus.

Foreign Minister Qureshi said this during his conversation with Ambassador of Nepal, Tapas Adhikari, in his office on Wednesday.

According to the statement issued by Pakistan Foreign Affairs, the entire spectrum of bilateral relations was discussed during the meeting.

Commending the effective measures taken by Nepal to contain the virus, the Foreign Minister said, Pakistan stands with Nepal in its efforts to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and will extend all possible support in this context.

Qureshi conveyed his felicitations to Raghubir Mahaseth on the assumption of the office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs.

"Foreign Minister also expressed gratitude for the assistance extended by the Government of Nepal for the smooth evacuation of stranded Pakistani nationals from Nepal on 31 May 2021,” said the statement.

The Ambassador thanked the Pakistan Government for the&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;related assistance and further expressed his desire to work for the bilateral relations.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi conveyed condolences on the lives lost in Nepal due to COVID-19 and said that Pakistan stands with Nepal in its efforts to deal with the virus.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi conveyed condolences on the lives lost in Nepal due to COVID-19 and said that Pakistan stands with Nepal in its efforts to deal with the virus. Foreign Minister Qureshi said this during his conversation with Ambassador of Nepal, Tapas Adhikari, in his office on Wednesday. According to the statement issued by Pakistan Foreign Affairs, the entire spectrum of bilateral relations was discussed during the meeting. Commending the effective measures taken by Nepal to contain the virus, the Foreign Minister said, Pakistan stands with Nepal in its efforts to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and will extend all possible support in this context. Qureshi conveyed his felicitations to Raghubir Mahaseth on the assumption of the office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs. "Foreign Minister also expressed gratitude for the assistance extended by the Government of Nepal for the smooth evacuation of stranded Pakistani nationals from Nepal on 31 May 2021,” said the statement. The Ambassador thanked the Pakistan Government for the COVID-19 related assistance and further expressed his desire to work for the bilateral relations.

Pakistan stands with Nepal to fight COVID-19 pandemic, says Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi

Israel has expressed its regret over Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressing in an anti-Semitic manner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anti-Semitism refers to hostility toward or discrimination against Jews as a religious, ethnic, or racial group.

In response to a WION question at a virtual presser,&nbsp;Israel's charge d'affaires in Delhi Rony Yedidia Clein said, anti-semitism should be "dealt seriously and rigorously and I'm sorry to hear Pakistan FM also expressed himself in an anti-Semitic manner "

Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who has courted controversy many times in the past, during an interview with CNN said," Israel is losing the media war despite its connections" and "deep pockets" and ability to "control media" to which he was questioned over those remarks. The video has since then got viral in many parts of the world including in Israel.

Rony Yedidia during her response to the incident explained while she hasn't seen the interview, "unfortunately, there have a lot of anti-Semitic comments and actions coming up over the last couple of weeks, its something that we are very sorry to see...this Anti-semitism we have seen around the world" but this is "something the international community should be condemning, in fact&nbsp;international&nbsp;community has started to condemn anti-Semitism whatever traces".

Pakistani foreign minister is in New York to take part in the session of the United Nations General assembly on the Israel-Palestine issue that took place on Thursday.

Qureshi&nbsp;has been very active since the Israel-Palestine conflict began 10 days ago, speaking to a number of his counterparts from West Asia trying to drum up support for the Palestinian cause in line with Islamabad's stated policy.&nbsp;

Israel has expressed its regret over Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressing in an anti-Semitic manner. Anti-Semitism refers to hostility toward or discrimination against Jews as a religious, ethnic, or racial group.

Israel has expressed its regret over Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressing in an anti-Semitic manner. Anti-Semitism refers to hostility toward or discrimination against Jews as a religious, ethnic, or racial group. In response to a WION question at a virtual presser, Israel's charge d'affaires in Delhi Rony Yedidia Clein said, anti-semitism should be "dealt seriously and rigorously and I'm sorry to hear Pakistan FM also expressed himself in an anti-Semitic manner " Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who has courted controversy many times in the past, during an interview with CNN said," Israel is losing the media war despite its connections" and "deep pockets" and ability to "control media" to which he was questioned over those remarks. The video has since then got viral in many parts of the world including in Israel. Rony Yedidia during her response to the incident explained while she hasn't seen the interview, "unfortunately, there have a lot of anti-Semitic comments and actions coming up over the last couple of weeks, its something that we are very sorry to see...this Anti-semitism we have seen around the world" but this is "something the international community should be condemning, in fact international community has started to condemn anti-Semitism whatever traces". Pakistani foreign minister is in New York to take part in the session of the United Nations General assembly on the Israel-Palestine issue that took place on Thursday. Qureshi has been very active since the Israel-Palestine conflict began 10 days ago, speaking to a number of his counterparts from West Asia trying to drum up support for the Palestinian cause in line with Islamabad's stated policy.

Sorry to hear Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressing himself in anti-Semitic manner, says Israeli diplomat

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday and both exchanged views on the ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations. FM Qureshi is currently on a 4-nation tour and he visited Iran as a part of that tour.

Pak FM Qureshi, Iran's President Rouhani discuss ways to strengthen ties

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He mety his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral economic co-opeartion and other issues of mutual and regional interest.

"Delighted to meet FM @ABZayed. Look forward to our discussions," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Delighted to meet FM <a href="https://twitter.com/ABZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABZayed</a>. Look forward to our discussions. <a href="https://t.co/VdHlKryhzO">pic.twitter.com/VdHlKryhzO</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1383831359500611588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jaishankar's visit coincides with the ongoing trip of his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi to UAE. There have been media reports that UAE was holding back channel talks to restart dialogue between India and Pakistan.

Jaishankar had earlier visited UAE on November 25 and 26 amid coronavirus pandemic. He had met Al Nahyan at that time as well.

Jaishankar's current visit to Abu Dhabi comes days after the Emirati ambassador to the US Yousef al-Otaiba said that the UAE played a role in bringing down the tension between India and Pakistan and getting their bilateral ties back to a "healthy functional relationship".

"They might not sort of become best friends but at least we want to get it to a level where it's functional, where it's operational, where they are speaking to each other," al-Otaiba said during a virtual discussion with Stanford University's Hoover Institution on Wednesday.

Qureshi is in the UAE on a three-day visit during which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He mety his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral economic co-opeartion and other issues of mutual and regional interest.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He mety his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral economic co-opeartion and other issues of mutual and regional interest. "Delighted to meet FM @ABZayed. Look forward to our discussions," Jaishankar tweeted. Delighted to meet FM @ABZayed. Look forward to our discussions. pic.twitter.com/VdHlKryhzO — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2021 × Jaishankar's visit coincides with the ongoing trip of his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi to UAE. There have been media reports that UAE was holding back channel talks to restart dialogue between India and Pakistan. Jaishankar had earlier visited UAE on November 25 and 26 amid coronavirus pandemic. He had met Al Nahyan at that time as well. Jaishankar's current visit to Abu Dhabi comes days after the Emirati ambassador to the US Yousef al-Otaiba said that the UAE played a role in bringing down the tension between India and Pakistan and getting their bilateral ties back to a "healthy functional relationship". "They might not sort of become best friends but at least we want to get it to a level where it's functional, where it's operational, where they are speaking to each other," al-Otaiba said during a virtual discussion with Stanford University's Hoover Institution on Wednesday. Qureshi is in the UAE on a three-day visit during which he will hold discussions with the country's leadership on all areas of bilateral cooperation including collaboration in trade and investment. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar arrives in Abu Dhabi

India's Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar to visit Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Jaishankar's Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi will also be present on the same day.

Pak: India, Pakistan foreign ministers will not meet in UAE

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible"&nbsp;pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country.

Qureshi, who is in the UAE, received a call from Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Foreign Office.

During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Afghan peace process.

Qureshi "hoped that withdrawal of foreign troops would coincide with the progress in the peace process,"&nbsp;it said.

He underscored Pakistan's consistent policy to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the Afghan peace process. He said Pakistan supports an "orderly and responsible"&nbsp;pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan, it said.

Qureshi's remarks came in the wake of US President Joe Biden's announcement this month that all American troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers.

During a televised address to the nation, Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him and to other leaders and urged countries in the region, especially Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India and Turkey to "do more" to help ensure peace in Afghanistan.

He said the US will begin final withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1 of this year. There were 2,500 to 3,000 US troops in Afghanistan when Biden took office in January.

Qureshi said Pakistan's facilitative support led to US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the subsequent Intra-Afghan negotiations.

The foreign minister expressed hope that the Afghan parties would work constructively to achieve the shared objective of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepen bilateral ties in all areas of mutual interest. The foreign minister invited his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan after the meeting in Istanbul. The Afghan foreign minister accepted the invitation, the statement said.

Qureshi left on a three-day trip to the UAE on Saturday where he was scheduled to hold talks with UAE leaders on various bilateral and international issues, it said.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country. Qureshi, who is in the UAE, received a call from Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Foreign Office. During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Afghan peace process. Qureshi "hoped that withdrawal of foreign troops would coincide with the progress in the peace process," it said. He underscored Pakistan's consistent policy to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the Afghan peace process. He said Pakistan supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan, it said. Qureshi's remarks came in the wake of US President Joe Biden's announcement this month that all American troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers. During a televised address to the nation, Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him and to other leaders and urged countries in the region, especially Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India and Turkey to "do more" to help ensure peace in Afghanistan. He said the US will begin final withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1 of this year. There were 2,500 to 3,000 US troops in Afghanistan when Biden took office in January. Qureshi said Pakistan's facilitative support led to US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the subsequent Intra-Afghan negotiations. The foreign minister expressed hope that the Afghan parties would work constructively to achieve the shared objective of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan. Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepen bilateral ties in all areas of mutual interest. The foreign minister invited his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan after the meeting in Istanbul. The Afghan foreign minister accepted the invitation, the statement said. Qureshi left on a three-day trip to the UAE on Saturday where he was scheduled to hold talks with UAE leaders on various bilateral and international issues, it said.

Pakistan supports 'orderly', 'responsible' troop pullout from Afghanistan: Qureshi

The US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, spoke with the family of the late journalist, Daniel Pearl, assuring them justice for Pearl’s murder.

“Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with members of the family of Daniel Pearl and their representatives today to assure them that the US government remains committed to pursuing justice and accountability for those involved in Daniel's kidnapping and murder,” State Department spokesperson Ned Price said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prosecution-failed-to-prove-guilt-of-main-accused-in-daniel-pearl-case-pak-sc-373600">Prosecution failed to prove guilt of main accused in Daniel Pearl case: Pak SC</a>

Daniel Pearl was a journalist for The Wall Street Journal’s South Asia bureau who was abducted and then killed while he was in Pakistan to investigate for a story on Al-Qaeda in 2002.

The US has expressed concerns over the release of multiple terrorists who had been held responsible for the murder of Daniel Pearl.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-orders-immediate-release-of-daniel-pearl-murder-prime-suspect-359828">Pakistan Supreme Court orders immediate release of Daniel Pearl murder prime suspect</a>

Blinken had also talked with his Pakistan counterpart, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, to discuss ways of ensuring justice for the murdered journalist and accountability for convicted terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh.

This has come a month after the Pakistan Supreme Court had allowed the government to move Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in this case, to the Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore.

The US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, spoke with the family of the late journalist, Daniel Pearl, assuring them justice for Pearl’s murder. “Secretary of State Antony J.

The US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, spoke with the family of the late journalist, Daniel Pearl, assuring them justice for Pearl’s murder. “Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with members of the family of Daniel Pearl and their representatives today to assure them that the US government remains committed to pursuing justice and accountability for those involved in Daniel's kidnapping and murder,” State Department spokesperson Ned Price said. Also read | Prosecution failed to prove guilt of main accused in Daniel Pearl case: Pak SC Daniel Pearl was a journalist for The Wall Street Journal’s South Asia bureau who was abducted and then killed while he was in Pakistan to investigate for a story on Al-Qaeda in 2002. The US has expressed concerns over the release of multiple terrorists who had been held responsible for the murder of Daniel Pearl. Also read | Pakistan Supreme Court orders immediate release of Daniel Pearl murder prime suspect Blinken had also talked with his Pakistan counterpart, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, to discuss ways of ensuring justice for the murdered journalist and accountability for convicted terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh. This has come a month after the Pakistan Supreme Court had allowed the government to move Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in this case, to the Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore.

US: Anthony Blinken assures justice to Daniel Pearl's family

Dialogue is the only way forward for India and Pakistan, Pakistani Foreign Minister&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi&nbsp;told WION in an exclusive interview, while appreciating that&nbsp;India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar didn't mention anything negative about Pakistan in his address to the recently concluded Heart of Asia conference.

Qureshi reiterated that Pakistan would take two steps if India takes one towards peace, while taking note of recent mutual overtures like the exchange of letters between the prime ministers of the two countries and the neighours' decision to strictly observe ceasefire along Line of Control (LoC).

Watch |&nbsp;

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''Pakistan has never shied away from talks, we believe that dialogue is the only way forward. There are two nuclear powers, who cannot indulge in the stupidity of war, this would be equivalent to suicide,'' he said.&nbsp;

"So when there’s no other solution, no military solution, then what's the way forward except dialogue? For dialogue, if India can consider for an enabling environment, then Pakistan has earlier said that if India takes one step, Pakistan will take two."&nbsp;

"If India wants to move forward with Pakistan, now they would have to create a conducive environment and for that take some steps to create an enabling environment," the minister added.

There was wide expectation that Jaishankar and Qureshi would have a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of Heart of Asia conference in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on peace in Afghanistan. But it did not happen.&nbsp;

Asked about this, Qureshi said,&nbsp;"We haven't met, have had no talk and no pull-aside meeting happened that you [media] were watching closely. I didn’t receive any request from him, neither did we [request] and moreover, we didn't have any schedule of meeting either."&nbsp;

''He was busy on his programme and I was also engaged with my prior schedule - so we couldn't met bilaterally. "

He expressed happiness about the ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;"I am happy that we have come to the understanding of 2003 ceasefire agreement on LoC, which is a welcome move and Kashmiris also express happiness."

He mentioned Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's&nbsp;reply to Indian Prime Narendra Modi's letter on Pakistan National Day.&nbsp;"PM Modi also wrote to Imran Khan and [sent] wishes to Pakistani PM and Pakistani citizens on its National day and PM Imran Khan also wrote to PM Modi.''

In his letter, Khan thanked Modi and he has said that Pakistan's longstanding wish has been that it wants better relations with every of its neighbour and live with peace, Qureshi noted.&nbsp;

The need is to resolve all outstanding issues, he said.

On Jaishankar not bringing up Pakistan-related issues during his speech at Heart of Asia, Qureshi said:&nbsp; "I was listening carefully. He didn't point&nbsp;or mention anything negative about Pakistan, which they usually did in the past...PM Modi's letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan and India not slamming or blaming Pakistan&nbsp;on Heart of Asia summit, I would consider it a positive move."

Dialogue is the only way forward for India and Pakistan, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told WION in an exclusive interview, while appreciating that India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar didn't mention anything negative about Pakistan in his address to the recently concluded Heart of Asia conference.

Dialogue is the only way forward for India and Pakistan, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told WION in an exclusive interview, while appreciating that India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar didn't mention anything negative about Pakistan in his address to the recently concluded Heart of Asia conference. Qureshi reiterated that Pakistan would take two steps if India takes one towards peace, while taking note of recent mutual overtures like the exchange of letters between the prime ministers of the two countries and the neighours' decision to strictly observe ceasefire along Line of Control (LoC). Watch | ''Pakistan has never shied away from talks, we believe that dialogue is the only way forward. There are two nuclear powers, who cannot indulge in the stupidity of war, this would be equivalent to suicide,'' he said. "So when there’s no other solution, no military solution, then what's the way forward except dialogue? For dialogue, if India can consider for an enabling environment, then Pakistan has earlier said that if India takes one step, Pakistan will take two." "If India wants to move forward with Pakistan, now they would have to create a conducive environment and for that take some steps to create an enabling environment," the minister added. There was wide expectation that Jaishankar and Qureshi would have a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of Heart of Asia conference in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on peace in Afghanistan. But it did not happen. Asked about this, Qureshi said, "We haven't met, have had no talk and no pull-aside meeting happened that you [media] were watching closely. I didn’t receive any request from him, neither did we [request] and moreover, we didn't have any schedule of meeting either." ''He was busy on his programme and I was also engaged with my prior schedule - so we couldn't met bilaterally. " He expressed happiness about the ceasefire agreement. "I am happy that we have come to the understanding of 2003 ceasefire agreement on LoC, which is a welcome move and Kashmiris also express happiness." He mentioned Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's reply to Indian Prime Narendra Modi's letter on Pakistan National Day. "PM Modi also wrote to Imran Khan and [sent] wishes to Pakistani PM and Pakistani citizens on its National day and PM Imran Khan also wrote to PM Modi.'' In his letter, Khan thanked Modi and he has said that Pakistan's longstanding wish has been that it wants better relations with every of its neighbour and live with peace, Qureshi noted. The need is to resolve all outstanding issues, he said. On Jaishankar not bringing up Pakistan-related issues during his speech at Heart of Asia, Qureshi said: "I was listening carefully. He didn't point or mention anything negative about Pakistan, which they usually did in the past...PM Modi's letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan and India not slamming or blaming Pakistan on Heart of Asia summit, I would consider it a positive move."

WION Exclusive: Dialogue with India only way forward, says Pak Foreign Minister Qureshi 

India’s external affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will be attending the Ninth Ministerial Conference of the "Heart of Asia" on March 30 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

India, Pakistan Foreign Minister at same platform on March 30

Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi will attend the Ninth Ministerial Conference of the "Heart of Asia" on March 30 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. This is after many years that both Indian and Pakistani foreign ministers will be together under one roof. As of now, there is no confirmation of any meeting happening between the two sides.

The development comes even as several conciliatory comments are coming from Pakistan, by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistani Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa. On Thursday (March 19), speaking at the Islamabad security dialogue, the Pakistani Army Chief said, "We feel it is time to bury the past and move forward." Earlier, at the same platform, Imran Khan talked about trade in the region can only prosper if India takes "the first step".

Earlier in the week, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said, "India desires good neighbourly relations with Pakistan and is committed to addressing issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully."

"Any meaningful dialogue can only be held in a conducive atmosphere and the onus is on Pakistan to create such an atmosphere," he added.

Heart of Asia – Istanbul Process is a decade old initiative of Afghan-Turkey that has 15 countries as part of it. The initiative aims at peace in Afghanistan. Most of the countries are Afghanistan's Neighbours and west Asian countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE as part of it. India hosted the same meet in 2016 in Amritsar.

Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi will attend the Ninth Ministerial Conference of the "Heart of Asia" on March 30 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi will attend the Ninth Ministerial Conference of the "Heart of Asia" on March 30 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. This is after many years that both Indian and Pakistani foreign ministers will be together under one roof. As of now, there is no confirmation of any meeting happening between the two sides. The development comes even as several conciliatory comments are coming from Pakistan, by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistani Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa. On Thursday (March 19), speaking at the Islamabad security dialogue, the Pakistani Army Chief said, "We feel it is time to bury the past and move forward." Earlier, at the same platform, Imran Khan talked about trade in the region can only prosper if India takes "the first step". Earlier in the week, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said, "India desires good neighbourly relations with Pakistan and is committed to addressing issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully." "Any meaningful dialogue can only be held in a conducive atmosphere and the onus is on Pakistan to create such an atmosphere," he added. Heart of Asia – Istanbul Process is a decade old initiative of Afghan-Turkey that has 15 countries as part of it. The initiative aims at peace in Afghanistan. Most of the countries are Afghanistan's Neighbours and west Asian countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE as part of it. India hosted the same meet in 2016 in Amritsar.

Indian EAM, Pak FM to attend Dushanbe meet on Afghanistan

Pakistan is ready to work with the new US administration, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said.

Qureshi on Sunday asserted&nbsp;the world has changed a lot in the last four years and any engagement and relations should be developed on the basis of new ground realities.

Under the Trump administration, the relations between Pakistan and the US were chaotic. But now, Qureshi said while addressing a press conference in Multan, the Pakistan government was ready to work with the new US government and hoped that the Biden administration would be guided by a "new approach and new policy guidelines."

"In these four years the world has changed, the region has changed and Pakistan has changed and you have to engage with this new Pakistan," Qureshi said.

"I understand that there is a lot of similarity between the current thinking in the United States and our policies."

Qureshi said that he in a letter addressed to the incoming Secretary of State Anthony Blinken tried to update him about the positive trajectory of Pakistan's policies with the idea of more talks on the issue of interests with him.

"We have made a very big shift, from a geo-strategic position to a geo-economic position," he said, highlighting the focus of the current government to fix the ailing economy of the country.

The statement came as Pakistan looked forward to build on the improvement in ties with Washington in the wake of peace agreement with the Taliban, which Islamabad claims it facilitated.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has already expressed his desire to work with the new American administration to deepen bilateral ties.

"Look forward to working with @POTUS in building a stronger Pak-US partnership through trade and economic engagement, countering climate change, improving public health, combating corruption and promoting peace in the region and beyond," Khan tweeted while congratulating the new US President.

Pakistan is ready to work with the new US administration, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said. Qureshi on Sunday asserted the world has changed a lot in the last four years and any engagement and relations should be developed on the basis of new ground realities.

Pakistan is ready to work with the new US administration, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said. Qureshi on Sunday asserted the world has changed a lot in the last four years and any engagement and relations should be developed on the basis of new ground realities. Under the Trump administration, the relations between Pakistan and the US were chaotic. But now, Qureshi said while addressing a press conference in Multan, the Pakistan government was ready to work with the new US government and hoped that the Biden administration would be guided by a "new approach and new policy guidelines." "In these four years the world has changed, the region has changed and Pakistan has changed and you have to engage with this new Pakistan," Qureshi said. "I understand that there is a lot of similarity between the current thinking in the United States and our policies." Qureshi said that he in a letter addressed to the incoming Secretary of State Anthony Blinken tried to update him about the positive trajectory of Pakistan's policies with the idea of more talks on the issue of interests with him. "We have made a very big shift, from a geo-strategic position to a geo-economic position," he said, highlighting the focus of the current government to fix the ailing economy of the country. The statement came as Pakistan looked forward to build on the improvement in ties with Washington in the wake of peace agreement with the Taliban, which Islamabad claims it facilitated. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has already expressed his desire to work with the new American administration to deepen bilateral ties. "Look forward to working with @POTUS in building a stronger Pak-US partnership through trade and economic engagement, countering climate change, improving public health, combating corruption and promoting peace in the region and beyond," Khan tweeted while congratulating the new US President.

Pak foreign minister says Islamabad ready to work with new US administration

In the last two months, five countries have normalised relations with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco and Bhutan.

Now, there is intense speculation whether Pakistan will be next with journalists to pundits weighing in. However, Israel and Pakistan haven't said anything but there have been feelers.

The idea has high profile backers as members of the Pakistani military establishment support it. Some religious leaders also like the prospect of a partnership, however, Islamabad may not have the stomach to go ahead with it.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan had issued a statement in November claiming that Pakistan was under pressure from the United States to befriend Israel.

However, when asked had any Arab country made a similar demand, PM Imran Khan said: "there are things we cannot say. We have good relations with them."

Although the good-relations bit is debatable, Imran Khan's words triggered intense speculation as the Pakistani media began debating the subject. Some of them said it's time for a change.

Experts from Pakistan ended up on Israeli channels advocating better ties between Pakistan and Israel and within a week the Pakistan government was forced to issue another denial.

The Pakistan foreign ministry "categorically rejected" what it called baseless speculation and since then, Pakistan has made every effort to distance itself from the idea.

In fact, the story got so big that even the Pakistani army had to issue a statement. They supported the Pakistan government's stand, however, the reports have not died down as religious leaders have added fuel to the fire.

Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani a prominent religious figure who was a part of the Jamiat ulema-e-Islam and had served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan earlier this month asked about the issue of Israel.

Sherani backed the idea of normalising ties.

"This is an international issue. I support the recognition of Israel. Educated Muslims need to understand that the Quran and history prove to us that the land of Israel belongs only to the Jews. King David built the house of God in Jerusalem for the Israelis and not for the Palestinians,” Sherani said.

More religious leaders have joined the chorus even as Maulana Jamal Qadri was reminded of his visit to Israel.

Qadri claimed he was sent by Nawaz Sharif "to hold talks with officials in Tel Aviv".

“The people of the then foreign ministry wanted to know whether Pakistan could develop relations with Israel or not,” Qadri said.

“I told the prime minister twice that Pakistan’s parliament should be consulted or a national dialogue be held to take a decision in this regard,” he added.

According to Qadri, Nawaz Sharif was quite keen on formalising ties with Israel.

In 2018, an Israeli jet had landed in Islamabad as reports said it was an Israeli delegation visiting Pakistan. Islamabad, however, denied the story for a week, but one year later Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi supported friendship with Israel.

“We wish all the best for Israel. We have many friends in the region and we would like you to join them," Qureshi told an Israeli news outlet while talking about the American efforts to improve the political situation in the region.

In the end, Qureshi admitted Pakistan was interested in advancing ties with Israel. In the past, Pervez Musharraf had called for better ties with Israel&nbsp;

In 2005, Musharraf had even taken a bold step by publicly shaking hands with the then Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in Istanbul.

Clearly, there is desire, what Pakistan lacks is the courage to take the plunge.

In the last two months, five countries have normalised relations with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco and Bhutan. Now, there is intense speculation whether Pakistan will be next with journalists to pundits weighing in.

In the last two months, five countries have normalised relations with Israel - the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco and Bhutan. Now, there is intense speculation whether Pakistan will be next with journalists to pundits weighing in. However, Israel and Pakistan haven't said anything but there have been feelers. The idea has high profile backers as members of the Pakistani military establishment support it. Some religious leaders also like the prospect of a partnership, however, Islamabad may not have the stomach to go ahead with it. Pakistan PM Imran Khan had issued a statement in November claiming that Pakistan was under pressure from the United States to befriend Israel. However, when asked had any Arab country made a similar demand, PM Imran Khan said: "there are things we cannot say. We have good relations with them." Although the good-relations bit is debatable, Imran Khan's words triggered intense speculation as the Pakistani media began debating the subject. Some of them said it's time for a change. Experts from Pakistan ended up on Israeli channels advocating better ties between Pakistan and Israel and within a week the Pakistan government was forced to issue another denial. The Pakistan foreign ministry "categorically rejected" what it called baseless speculation and since then, Pakistan has made every effort to distance itself from the idea. In fact, the story got so big that even the Pakistani army had to issue a statement. They supported the Pakistan government's stand, however, the reports have not died down as religious leaders have added fuel to the fire. Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani a prominent religious figure who was a part of the Jamiat ulema-e-Islam and had served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan earlier this month asked about the issue of Israel. Sherani backed the idea of normalising ties. "This is an international issue. I support the recognition of Israel. Educated Muslims need to understand that the Quran and history prove to us that the land of Israel belongs only to the Jews. King David built the house of God in Jerusalem for the Israelis and not for the Palestinians,” Sherani said. More religious leaders have joined the chorus even as Maulana Jamal Qadri was reminded of his visit to Israel. Qadri claimed he was sent by Nawaz Sharif "to hold talks with officials in Tel Aviv". “The people of the then foreign ministry wanted to know whether Pakistan could develop relations with Israel or not,” Qadri said. “I told the prime minister twice that Pakistan’s parliament should be consulted or a national dialogue be held to take a decision in this regard,” he added. According to Qadri, Nawaz Sharif was quite keen on formalising ties with Israel. In 2018, an Israeli jet had landed in Islamabad as reports said it was an Israeli delegation visiting Pakistan. Islamabad, however, denied the story for a week, but one year later Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi supported friendship with Israel. “We wish all the best for Israel. We have many friends in the region and we would like you to join them," Qureshi told an Israeli news outlet while talking about the American efforts to improve the political situation in the region. In the end, Qureshi admitted Pakistan was interested in advancing ties with Israel. In the past, Pervez Musharraf had called for better ties with Israel In 2005, Musharraf had even taken a bold step by publicly shaking hands with the then Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in Istanbul. Clearly, there is desire, what Pakistan lacks is the courage to take the plunge.

Is Pakistan set to normalise ties with Israel?

Afghanistan has strongly objected to Pakistan providing safe haven to the Taliban with new evidence emerging on how the group has itself openly acknowledged its presence in the country

Afghan foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan."

Kabil called on the "Pakistani government not to allow its territory to be used by insurgents and elements who insist on continuing the war and bloodshed".

Earlier this month, the top Taliban delegation was in Pakistan for talks with Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood&nbsp;Qureshi and PM Imran Khan but what came as a shocker was videos of them visiting followers and extending support to them.

Terming the development regretful and concerning, the Afghan ministry pointed out the videos in which "Taliban appeared among their followers, disclosing the existence of all Taliban leaders in Pakistan and acknowledging their continued activities in Pakistani territory."

The videos, which went viral showed Taliban Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country.

The Afghan statement highlighted that Kabul "considers the closure of insurgent and terrorist sanctuaries and the cessation of their activities vital for the peaceful resolution of the Afghan crisis and ensuring regional peace and stability" and called for "continuation of sincere cooperation and genuine fight against terrorism and common threats."

It is not the first time, the Taliban has been to Pakistan on an official visit for the talks. While the Taliban has been having talks with other countries like Iran, China, a visit to Pakistan has been with much fanfare with videos been released of a warm welcome.

Afghanistan in the past has also raised concerns over Pakistan hosting insurgent and terror groups. In fact, along with Kabul, Tehran and Delhi have multiple times raised concerns over safe haven to terror groups but Islamabad has yet to take action.

Afghanistan has strongly objected to Pakistan providing safe haven to the Taliban with new evidence emerging on how the group has itself openly acknowledged its presence in the country Afghan foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan has strongly objected to Pakistan providing safe haven to the Taliban with new evidence emerging on how the group has itself openly acknowledged its presence in the country Afghan foreign ministry in a strongly worded statement said, "The overt presence and activities of Afghan insurgent elements and their leaders in Pakistani territory clearly violate Afghanistan's national sovereignty and continue to cause crisis and instability in the region" which poses a "serious challenge to achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan." Kabil called on the "Pakistani government not to allow its territory to be used by insurgents and elements who insist on continuing the war and bloodshed". Earlier this month, the top Taliban delegation was in Pakistan for talks with Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and PM Imran Khan but what came as a shocker was videos of them visiting followers and extending support to them. Terming the development regretful and concerning, the Afghan ministry pointed out the videos in which "Taliban appeared among their followers, disclosing the existence of all Taliban leaders in Pakistan and acknowledging their continued activities in Pakistani territory." The videos, which went viral showed Taliban Abdul Ghani Baradar engaging with followers in Karachi and confessing to the group's leadership in the country. The Afghan statement highlighted that Kabul "considers the closure of insurgent and terrorist sanctuaries and the cessation of their activities vital for the peaceful resolution of the Afghan crisis and ensuring regional peace and stability" and called for "continuation of sincere cooperation and genuine fight against terrorism and common threats." It is not the first time, the Taliban has been to Pakistan on an official visit for the talks. While the Taliban has been having talks with other countries like Iran, China, a visit to Pakistan has been with much fanfare with videos been released of a warm welcome. Afghanistan in the past has also raised concerns over Pakistan hosting insurgent and terror groups. In fact, along with Kabul, Tehran and Delhi have multiple times raised concerns over safe haven to terror groups but Islamabad has yet to take action.

Afghanistan objects to Pakistan providing Taliban a safe haven

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there is no possibility of a diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation, according to a media report on Thursday.

New Delhi has already been maintaining its stand that "talks and terror" cannot go together as it continues to ask Islamabad to take demonstrable steps against terror groups responsible for launching various attacks on India.

"There is no possibility of a backdoor or diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation...The circumstances are not suitable for any dialogue at the moment," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper.

Qureshi made the comments while talking to reporters in his hometown Multan on Wednesday, the paper said.

Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived after a terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force base in 2016 by terror groups based in the neighbouring country. Subsequent attacks, including one on Indian Army camp in Uri, further deteriorated the relationship.

The relationship further dipped after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terorrist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26 last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed.

Withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's special powers and bifurcating the state into two union territories in August last year also evoked a strong reaction from Pakistan, which has been unsuccessfully trying to rally international support against India on the Kashmir issue.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there is no possibility of a diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation, according to a media report on Thursday.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there is no possibility of a diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation, according to a media report on Thursday. New Delhi has already been maintaining its stand that "talks and terror" cannot go together as it continues to ask Islamabad to take demonstrable steps against terror groups responsible for launching various attacks on India. "There is no possibility of a backdoor or diplomatic dialogue with India in the prevailing situation...The circumstances are not suitable for any dialogue at the moment," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper. Qureshi made the comments while talking to reporters in his hometown Multan on Wednesday, the paper said. Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived after a terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force base in 2016 by terror groups based in the neighbouring country. Subsequent attacks, including one on Indian Army camp in Uri, further deteriorated the relationship. The relationship further dipped after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terorrist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26 last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. Withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's special powers and bifurcating the state into two union territories in August last year also evoked a strong reaction from Pakistan, which has been unsuccessfully trying to rally international support against India on the Kashmir issue. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

No possibility of dialogue with India in prevailing situation, says Pakistan foreign minister

After four years, Islamabad is still living in the fear that another Indian surgical strike is about to take place.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi couldn't stop himself from voicing it during his ongoing tour to the UAE.

Qureshi at a press conference said: "I have learnt through our intelligence sources, they have picked up this information that India is planning a surgical strike against Pakistan. This is a serious development and I also have knowledge that they have tried to seek approval from important players who they consider to be their partners."

Indian Army chief General MM Naravane had travelled to Saudi Arabia and the UAE earlier this month.

Qureshi met UAE's foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan on Thursday and the Pakistan foreign minister discussed Kashmir during the meeting. Reports say Qureshi once again peddled lies about human rights in Kashmir.

The Emirates has halted the issuance of new visas to Pak citizens over security concerns which is a massive setback for Pakistan's struggling economy since foreign remittances from expats in the UAE are life-savers for Islamabad.

The Sheikhdom has cut Pakistan's lifeline and the visa issue is yet to be resolved.

Meanwhile back in Pakistan, Imran Khan is now cracking down on the Pashtuns. The Peshawar police have arrested Muhammad Ali Wazir and several other leaders of the "Pashtun Tahafuz movement". They have been accused of severe criminal offence making derogatory statements against the Pakistan government.

After four years, Islamabad is still living in the fear that another Indian surgical strike is about to take place. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi couldn't stop himself from voicing it during his ongoing tour to the UAE.

After four years, Islamabad is still living in the fear that another Indian surgical strike is about to take place. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi couldn't stop himself from voicing it during his ongoing tour to the UAE. Qureshi at a press conference said: "I have learnt through our intelligence sources, they have picked up this information that India is planning a surgical strike against Pakistan. This is a serious development and I also have knowledge that they have tried to seek approval from important players who they consider to be their partners." Indian Army chief General MM Naravane had travelled to Saudi Arabia and the UAE earlier this month. Qureshi met UAE's foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan on Thursday and the Pakistan foreign minister discussed Kashmir during the meeting. Reports say Qureshi once again peddled lies about human rights in Kashmir. The Emirates has halted the issuance of new visas to Pak citizens over security concerns which is a massive setback for Pakistan's struggling economy since foreign remittances from expats in the UAE are life-savers for Islamabad. The Sheikhdom has cut Pakistan's lifeline and the visa issue is yet to be resolved. Meanwhile back in Pakistan, Imran Khan is now cracking down on the Pashtuns. The Peshawar police have arrested Muhammad Ali Wazir and several other leaders of the "Pashtun Tahafuz movement". They have been accused of severe criminal offence making derogatory statements against the Pakistan government.

India planning surgical strike against Pakistan, says foreign minister Qureshi

A Taliban delegation arrived in Pakistan's capital on Wednesday (December 16) for a three-day visit, according to official statements, as both sides in the Afghan peace process continue consultations during a break in negotiations.

The Taliban delegation, led by the militant group's top political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, met Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the Foreign office. They will also meet Prime Minister Imran Khan during the visit, according to a Pakistan foreign office statement.

''During the visit, the delegation will meet with the Foreign Minister and call on the Prime Minister,''&nbsp;the FO said.

The visit comes after a delegation led by US special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, on Monday met Pakistan's Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and discussed with him the ongoing Afghan peace process.

AP reported that Baradar and his delegation were summoned to Islamabad from Qatar, where they have been negotiating since September with Afghan government representatives, officials close to the talks said.

According to a report in The Express Tribune, the delegation will discuss issues of mutual interest, in particular, problems of refugees, relaxation and facilitation of Afghan's movement to Pakistan, as well as issues faced by Afghan traders.

The visit of the TPC delegation is part of Pakistan's policy to reach out to key Afghan parties in the peace process with a view to facilitating the Intra-Afghan Negotiations that commenced in Doha on September 12, 2020.

''Pakistan will continue to support an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement for durable peace, stability, and prosperity in Afghanistan and the region,''&nbsp;said the FO.

It is the second visit of the TPC delegation this year after it visited Pakistan in August.

Afghanistan has been witnessing an increase in deadly attacks for the past few months. Four people were killed in separate bombing and shooting attacks in the country on Tuesday.

The Taliban last visited Islamabad in August, just before the peace talks with the Afghan government began in Doha as the United States pushed for a political settlement while it withdraws troops from the war-torn country.

Three people were killed in Kabul in separate bomb and gun attacks on Sunday. The Afghan government and Taliban representatives earlier this month said they had reached a preliminary deal to press on with peace talks, their first written agreement in 19 years of war.

The agreement comes months after the landmark intra-Afghan peace talks began in Doha. It lays out the way forward for further discussions and will allow negotiators to move on to more substantive issues.

The meetings in Islamabad will take place at a time when US President Donald Trump has ordered the withdrawal of more American soldiers from Afghanistan, leaving around 2,500 troops behind in the strife-torn country.

A Taliban delegation arrived in Pakistan's capital on Wednesday (December 16) for a three-day visit, according to official statements, as both sides in the Afghan peace process continue consultations during a break in negotiations.

A Taliban delegation arrived in Pakistan's capital on Wednesday (December 16) for a three-day visit, according to official statements, as both sides in the Afghan peace process continue consultations during a break in negotiations. The Taliban delegation, led by the militant group's top political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, met Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi at the Foreign office. They will also meet Prime Minister Imran Khan during the visit, according to a Pakistan foreign office statement. ''During the visit, the delegation will meet with the Foreign Minister and call on the Prime Minister,'' the FO said. The visit comes after a delegation led by US special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, on Monday met Pakistan's Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and discussed with him the ongoing Afghan peace process. AP reported that Baradar and his delegation were summoned to Islamabad from Qatar, where they have been negotiating since September with Afghan government representatives, officials close to the talks said. According to a report in The Express Tribune, the delegation will discuss issues of mutual interest, in particular, problems of refugees, relaxation and facilitation of Afghan's movement to Pakistan, as well as issues faced by Afghan traders. The visit of the TPC delegation is part of Pakistan's policy to reach out to key Afghan parties in the peace process with a view to facilitating the Intra-Afghan Negotiations that commenced in Doha on September 12, 2020. ''Pakistan will continue to support an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement for durable peace, stability, and prosperity in Afghanistan and the region,'' said the FO. It is the second visit of the TPC delegation this year after it visited Pakistan in August. Afghanistan has been witnessing an increase in deadly attacks for the past few months. Four people were killed in separate bombing and shooting attacks in the country on Tuesday. The Taliban last visited Islamabad in August, just before the peace talks with the Afghan government began in Doha as the United States pushed for a political settlement while it withdraws troops from the war-torn country. Three people were killed in Kabul in separate bomb and gun attacks on Sunday. The Afghan government and Taliban representatives earlier this month said they had reached a preliminary deal to press on with peace talks, their first written agreement in 19 years of war. The agreement comes months after the landmark intra-Afghan peace talks began in Doha. It lays out the way forward for further discussions and will allow negotiators to move on to more substantive issues. The meetings in Islamabad will take place at a time when US President Donald Trump has ordered the withdrawal of more American soldiers from Afghanistan, leaving around 2,500 troops behind in the strife-torn country.

Afghan-Taliban delegation arrives in Pakistan to push forward peace process

Pakistan's parliament reverberated with "Modi, Modi" chants as foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi was speaking on the issue of cartoon row in France. | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pulwama-was-great-achievement-under-imran-khans-leadership-admits-pak-minister-fawad-choudhry-338807">Also Read:&nbsp;Pulwama was great achievement under Imran Khan's leadership, admits Pak minister</a>

Balochistan MPs began raising Modi chants as Qureshi was speaking even as the opposition repeatedly disrupted his speech.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-ex-iaf-chief-india-was-prepared-to-get-back-wg-cdr-abhinandan-at-any-cost-338824/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Qureshi could not ignore the chants and pointed to PML-N's Khawaja Asif saying that "it seems Narendra Modi's soul has entered in him".

Pakistan's foreign minister has been at the centre of controversy after PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said that Qureshi in a meeting had pointed out that if Pakistan did not release India's IAF pilot <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-was-scared-of-indian-attack-truth-behind-abhinandans-release-revealed-338667">Abhinandan</a> Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan that night "by 9 pm."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bajwas-legs-were-shaking-who-is-pmln-leader-ayaz-sadiq-338795">Also Read:&nbsp;'Bajwa's legs were shaking': Who is PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq?</a>

Sadiq said the meeting included PPP and PML-N leaders as "Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room, his legs were shaking and he was perspiring". Pakistan PM Imran Khan had refused to attend the meeting.

Wing Commander Varthaman's MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft was shot down by Pakistan's F-16 fighter during a dog fight on February 27 last year. Pakistan later returned Abhinandan to India who came back from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019.

Pakistan's parliament reverberated with "Modi, Modi" chants as foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi was speaking on the issue of cartoon row in France. | Also Read: Pulwama was great achievement under Imran Khan's leadership, admits Pak minister Balochistan MPs began raising Modi chants as Qureshi was speaking even as the opposition repeatedly disrupted his speech.

Pakistan's parliament reverberated with "Modi, Modi" chants as foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi was speaking on the issue of cartoon row in France. | Also Read: Pulwama was great achievement under Imran Khan's leadership, admits Pak minister Balochistan MPs began raising Modi chants as Qureshi was speaking even as the opposition repeatedly disrupted his speech. Watch: Qureshi could not ignore the chants and pointed to PML-N's Khawaja Asif saying that "it seems Narendra Modi's soul has entered in him". Pakistan's foreign minister has been at the centre of controversy after PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said that Qureshi in a meeting had pointed out that if Pakistan did not release India's IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan that night "by 9 pm." Also Read: 'Bajwa's legs were shaking': Who is PML(N) leader Ayaz Sadiq? Sadiq said the meeting included PPP and PML-N leaders as "Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room, his legs were shaking and he was perspiring". Pakistan PM Imran Khan had refused to attend the meeting. Wing Commander Varthaman's MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft was shot down by Pakistan's F-16 fighter during a dog fight on February 27 last year. Pakistan later returned Abhinandan to India who came back from the Attari-Wagah border on March 1, 2019.

'Modi, Modi' chants in Pakistan Parliament as Qureshi speaks

As a special group of the FATF reviews Islamabad's progress on curbing terror, Pak FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi is hopeful that his country will soon be on terror watchdog's 'White list'. Does such a list even exist? Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the story.

Gravitas: Pakistan wants to be on FATF 'white list'

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister of Pakistan, said China's stand on the issue of Kashmir is clear, rejecting New Delhi's claim on the region.&nbsp;

Qureshi made this statement after recently returning from China for the annual strategic dialogue, where both countries issued a joint statement on Friday which opposed any unilateral action on Kashmir and asked New Delhi and Islamabad to resolve this issue peacefully.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-economy-moving-in-the-right-direction-says-pm-imran-khan-322709">Pakistan’s economy ‘moving in the right direction’, says PM Imran Khan</a>

India on Saturday again rejected China's interference on the matter and its Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that "the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India and we expect the parties concerned not to interfere in matters that are internal affairs of India."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-invites-sanctioned-taliban-members-to-islamabad-for-talks-322648">Pakistan invites sanctioned Taliban members to Islamabad for talks</a>

Qureshi also said that there was an impression earlier that SAARC countries are pro-India but now not only Nepal is showing eyes but ties between Dhaka and New Delhi are also not as close as it used to be.&nbsp;

"We will plan forward keeping all these considerations in mind," he said.&nbsp;

Qureshi also said Saudi Arabia has no ambiguity on the matter of Kashmir and it is being discussed how to take the matter forward.&nbsp;

He further said MEA's comments on the position of Kashmir are laughable, adding that the world also doesn't agree with India's claims, despite only a handful countries criticising New Delhi on the issue.&nbsp;

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister of Pakistan, said China's stand on the issue of Kashmir is clear, rejecting New Delhi's claim on the region. Qureshi made this statement after recently returning from China for the annual strategic dialogue, where both countries issued a joint statement on Friday which opposed any unilateral action on Kashmir and asked New Delhi and Islamabad to resolve this issue peacefully.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister of Pakistan, said China's stand on the issue of Kashmir is clear, rejecting New Delhi's claim on the region. Qureshi made this statement after recently returning from China for the annual strategic dialogue, where both countries issued a joint statement on Friday which opposed any unilateral action on Kashmir and asked New Delhi and Islamabad to resolve this issue peacefully. Also read | Pakistan’s economy ‘moving in the right direction’, says PM Imran Khan India on Saturday again rejected China's interference on the matter and its Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that "the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India and we expect the parties concerned not to interfere in matters that are internal affairs of India." Also read | Pakistan invites sanctioned Taliban members to Islamabad for talks Qureshi also said that there was an impression earlier that SAARC countries are pro-India but now not only Nepal is showing eyes but ties between Dhaka and New Delhi are also not as close as it used to be. "We will plan forward keeping all these considerations in mind," he said. Qureshi also said Saudi Arabia has no ambiguity on the matter of Kashmir and it is being discussed how to take the matter forward. He further said MEA's comments on the position of Kashmir are laughable, adding that the world also doesn't agree with India's claims, despite only a handful countries criticising New Delhi on the issue.

China rejects India's position on Kashmir: Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi

The foreign ministers of China and Pakistan held their 2nd annual strategic dialogue on Friday during which they discussed ways to enhance their all-weather bilateral ties, the Kashmir issue, progress on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and the Afghan peace process.

Billed as "highly relevant"&nbsp;and "very important" by both the countries ahead of the meeting held in the southern Chinese island resort of Hainan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi discussed a host of bilateral, regional and international issues.

A joint statement issued at the end of the meeting said that "both sides underlined that a peaceful, stable, cooperative and prosperous South Asia was in common interest of all parties. Parties need to settle disputes and issues in the region through dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual respect".

"The Pakistani side briefed the Chinese side on the situation in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, including its concerns, position and current urgent issues", it said.

"The Chinese side reiterated that the Kashmir issue is a dispute left over from history between India and Pakistan, which is an objective fact, and that the dispute should be resolved peacefully and properly through the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation", the joint press release said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shah-mahmood-qureshi-to-visit-hainan-for-china-pakistan-foreign-ministers-strategic-dialogue-321896">Also read:&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Hainan for China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ strategic dialogue</a>

India has been maintaining that China has no locus standi in commenting on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi has previously told "Beijing that the Union Territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir "has been, is and shall continue to be an integral part of India."

Earlier this month, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the issues pertaining to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir were solely an internal matter of India.

"As on such previous occasions, this attempt too met with little support from the international community. We firmly reject China's interference in our internal affairs and urge it to draw proper conclusions from such infructuous attempts," the MEA said in a statement in New Delhi after China initiated a discussion in the UN Security Council on Jammu and Kashmir.

Ahead of the meeting between Wang and Qureshi, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, Zhao Lijian told the media here on Thursday that "this time the strategic dialogue is highly relevant and the two sides will take the opportunity to discuss anti-epidemic cooperation, bilateral ties and the regional and international issues of mutual interest".

Before leaving for Hainan, Qureshi told the media in Islamabad that "I am leaving on a very important visit to China. I had a discussion with the prime minister regarding this visit yesterday. My delegation will represent the stance of the political and military leadership of the country".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-pakistans-railway-minister-threatens-nuclear-war-against-india-322260">Also read:&nbsp;Now, Pakistan's railway minister threatens 'nuclear war' against India</a>

The meeting took place amid reports of crisis in Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations which were regarded as the bedrock of Islamabad's foreign policy for decades.

Qureshi left for Hainan after the return of Pakistan Army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa from Saudi Arabia, where he held talks with senior officials on the state of relations between Riyadh and Islamabad.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said in an interview on Wednesday that Pakistan's future was linked to China as Beijing defended Pakistan in all difficult times. He said Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit Pakistan in the winter.

Wang and Qureshi reiterated that the enduring China-Pakistan all-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership is beneficial to international and regional peace and stability, and serves the mutual security and development interests of both countries as well as of international community and regional countries.

On Afghanistan, the joint statement said both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on the Afghan issue and appreciated the efforts made by Afghan government and the Taliban to initiate the Intra-Afghan Negotiations.

"China appreciated Pakistan's positive contribution to the Afghan peace process and efforts for promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond", it said.

Both sides agreed on continuing their firm support on issues concerning each other's core national interests.

"The Chinese side reiterated that Pakistan and China are iron brothers and Pakistan remains China's staunchest partner in the region and that China firmly supports Pakistan in safeguarding its territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence."

Beijing also said it supported Islamabad independently choosing a development path based on its national conditions, striving for a better external security environment and playing a more constructive role on international and regional affairs, the release said.

"The Pakistani side appreciated China for standing together with Pakistan in safeguarding its national security and sovereignty, and reaffirmed its firm support to China on affairs concerning China's core interests and issues of major concern, such as those related to Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong", it said.

On the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) both sides have underscored that it has entered the new phase of "high-quality development, and has played and will continue to play an important role in supporting Pakistan to overcome the impact of COVID-19 and achieve greater development."

The two sides will continue to firmly advance the construction of the CPEC, ensure in-time completion of those projects under construction, focus on economic and social development, job creation and improvement of people's livelihood, and further strengthen cooperation in Specialised Economic Zones, industrial relocation, science and technology, medical and health, human resources training, poverty alleviation, and agriculture etc, it said.

India has protested to China over the CPEC as it is being laid through Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

The foreign ministers of China and Pakistan held their 2nd annual strategic dialogue on Friday during which they discussed ways to enhance their all-weather bilateral ties, the Kashmir issue, progress on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and the Afghan peace process.

The foreign ministers of China and Pakistan held their 2nd annual strategic dialogue on Friday during which they discussed ways to enhance their all-weather bilateral ties, the Kashmir issue, progress on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and the Afghan peace process. Billed as "highly relevant" and "very important" by both the countries ahead of the meeting held in the southern Chinese island resort of Hainan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi discussed a host of bilateral, regional and international issues. A joint statement issued at the end of the meeting said that "both sides underlined that a peaceful, stable, cooperative and prosperous South Asia was in common interest of all parties. Parties need to settle disputes and issues in the region through dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual respect". "The Pakistani side briefed the Chinese side on the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, including its concerns, position and current urgent issues", it said. "The Chinese side reiterated that the Kashmir issue is a dispute left over from history between India and Pakistan, which is an objective fact, and that the dispute should be resolved peacefully and properly through the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation", the joint press release said. Also read: Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Hainan for China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ strategic dialogue India has been maintaining that China has no locus standi in commenting on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi has previously told "Beijing that the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir "has been, is and shall continue to be an integral part of India." Earlier this month, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the issues pertaining to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir were solely an internal matter of India. "As on such previous occasions, this attempt too met with little support from the international community. We firmly reject China's interference in our internal affairs and urge it to draw proper conclusions from such infructuous attempts," the MEA said in a statement in New Delhi after China initiated a discussion in the UN Security Council on Jammu and Kashmir. Ahead of the meeting between Wang and Qureshi, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, Zhao Lijian told the media here on Thursday that "this time the strategic dialogue is highly relevant and the two sides will take the opportunity to discuss anti-epidemic cooperation, bilateral ties and the regional and international issues of mutual interest". Before leaving for Hainan, Qureshi told the media in Islamabad that "I am leaving on a very important visit to China. I had a discussion with the prime minister regarding this visit yesterday. My delegation will represent the stance of the political and military leadership of the country". Also read: Now, Pakistan's railway minister threatens 'nuclear war' against India The meeting took place amid reports of crisis in Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations which were regarded as the bedrock of Islamabad's foreign policy for decades. Qureshi left for Hainan after the return of Pakistan Army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa from Saudi Arabia, where he held talks with senior officials on the state of relations between Riyadh and Islamabad. Prime Minister Imran Khan said in an interview on Wednesday that Pakistan's future was linked to China as Beijing defended Pakistan in all difficult times. He said Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit Pakistan in the winter. Wang and Qureshi reiterated that the enduring China-Pakistan all-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership is beneficial to international and regional peace and stability, and serves the mutual security and development interests of both countries as well as of international community and regional countries. On Afghanistan, the joint statement said both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on the Afghan issue and appreciated the efforts made by Afghan government and the Taliban to initiate the Intra-Afghan Negotiations. "China appreciated Pakistan's positive contribution to the Afghan peace process and efforts for promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond", it said. Both sides agreed on continuing their firm support on issues concerning each other's core national interests. "The Chinese side reiterated that Pakistan and China are iron brothers and Pakistan remains China's staunchest partner in the region and that China firmly supports Pakistan in safeguarding its territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence." Beijing also said it supported Islamabad independently choosing a development path based on its national conditions, striving for a better external security environment and playing a more constructive role on international and regional affairs, the release said. "The Pakistani side appreciated China for standing together with Pakistan in safeguarding its national security and sovereignty, and reaffirmed its firm support to China on affairs concerning China's core interests and issues of major concern, such as those related to Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong", it said. On the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) both sides have underscored that it has entered the new phase of "high-quality development, and has played and will continue to play an important role in supporting Pakistan to overcome the impact of COVID-19 and achieve greater development." The two sides will continue to firmly advance the construction of the CPEC, ensure in-time completion of those projects under construction, focus on economic and social development, job creation and improvement of people's livelihood, and further strengthen cooperation in Specialised Economic Zones, industrial relocation, science and technology, medical and health, human resources training, poverty alleviation, and agriculture etc, it said. India has protested to China over the CPEC as it is being laid through Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Wang, Qureshi discuss Kashmir, progress on CPEC projects during strategic dialogue

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi meets Chinese FM Wang Yi

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi accompanied by his officers is paying an official visit to Hainan, China from August 20-21, 2020.

Qureshi will lead the Pakistan side in the Second Round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue.

During the Dialogue both sides will, discuss cooperation on Covid-19, bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;

The visit will play an important role in further strengthening Pakistan-China "All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership" and deepen strategic communication and coordination with China on a range of issues.

Pakistan and China are longtime allies and partners in the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has seen Beijing pledge over $60 billion for infrastructure projects in Pakistan, central to China’s wider Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to develop land and sea trade routes in Asia and beyond.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi accompanied by his officers is paying an official visit to Hainan, China from August 20-21, 2020. Qureshi will lead the Pakistan side in the Second Round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi accompanied by his officers is paying an official visit to Hainan, China from August 20-21, 2020. Qureshi will lead the Pakistan side in the Second Round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. During the Dialogue both sides will, discuss cooperation on Covid-19, bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual interest. The visit will play an important role in further strengthening Pakistan-China "All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership" and deepen strategic communication and coordination with China on a range of issues. Pakistan and China are longtime allies and partners in the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has seen Beijing pledge over $60 billion for infrastructure projects in Pakistan, central to China’s wider Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to develop land and sea trade routes in Asia and beyond. (With inputs from agencies)

Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Hainan for China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ strategic dialogue

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will be embarking on a one-day trip to China on August 20. The agenda will be China's economic investments in Pakistan.

Pakistan's FM Qureshi to embark on a one-day trip to China

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has openly threatened Saudi Arabia. Critics have said that he is adamant in demolishing one of his country's foreign policy, issuing an ultimatum to either lead the OIC or against India's constitutional changes in Jammu and Kashmir or else advice Imran Khan to call a session of all the Islamic nations who are ready to stand with Pakistan on this issue. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Pak FM in the eye of diplomatic storm | Pak army chief in damage control mode

Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the eye of a diplomatic storm: Direct attack on Saudi Arabia

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, undergoing treatment for COVID-19, on Thursday rubbished as "false news" the reports of his death that appeared on social media.

Qureshi, 64, said he was fine and recovering from COVID-19 infection. Terming the reports of his death as "false news", the foreign minister said it had caused distress among his family and friends.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-fm-rebukes-journalist-who-questioned-him-on-social-distancing-296601">Pak FM rebukes journalist who questioned him on social distancing</a>

"I am fine by the Grace of Allah and recovering from COVID-19," Qureshi was quoted as saying by a Pakistani news channel.

Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui also condemned the attempts by "mischievous elements" to spread rumours on social media about the foreign minister's health.

"We strongly condemn attempts by mischievous elements to hack Wikipedia page of FM @SMQureshiPTI &amp; spread rumours on social media about his health &amp; well-being. By grace of Almighty Allah, FM is recovering fast. Everyone's prayers, from Pakistan &amp; abroad, are deeply appreciated," Farooqui tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/another-provincial-minister-dies-due-to-coronavirus-in-pakistan-306884">Another provincial minister dies due to coronavirus in Pakistan</a>

Qureshi was reportedly shifted to the Combined Military Hospital in Rawalpindi on Saturday, a day after he tested positive for the coronavirus and went into self-isolation.

Qureshi on Friday announced that he had tested positive for the coronavirus, joining a long list of Pakistani lawmakers who have contracted the deadly virus.

"I have now tested positive for Covid-19. By the grace of Allah, I feel strong and energetic. I will continue to carry on my duties from home. Please keep me in your prayers,? he said in a tweet on July 3.

Earlier, Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) leader and Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications Syed Aminul Haq had tested positive for the coronavirus. A week earlier than that PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said she had tested positive.

Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Jai Prakash, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Minister of State for Narcotics Shehryar Afridi and PTI's chief whip in the National Assembly Aamir Dogar have also been diagnosed with COVID-19.

In June, Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Munir Khan Orakzai died, days after recovering from the coronavirus. 
Eight members of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly have also been infected with the coronavirus. National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser was also infected but recovered.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, undergoing treatment for COVID-19, on Thursday rubbished as "false news" the reports of his death that appeared on social media.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, undergoing treatment for COVID-19, on Thursday rubbished as "false news" the reports of his death that appeared on social media. Qureshi, 64, said he was fine and recovering from COVID-19 infection. Terming the reports of his death as "false news", the foreign minister said it had caused distress among his family and friends. Also read: Pak FM rebukes journalist who questioned him on social distancing "I am fine by the Grace of Allah and recovering from COVID-19," Qureshi was quoted as saying by a Pakistani news channel. Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui also condemned the attempts by "mischievous elements" to spread rumours on social media about the foreign minister's health. "We strongly condemn attempts by mischievous elements to hack Wikipedia page of FM @SMQureshiPTI & spread rumours on social media about his health & well-being. By grace of Almighty Allah, FM is recovering fast. Everyone's prayers, from Pakistan & abroad, are deeply appreciated," Farooqui tweeted. Also read: Another provincial minister dies due to coronavirus in Pakistan Qureshi was reportedly shifted to the Combined Military Hospital in Rawalpindi on Saturday, a day after he tested positive for the coronavirus and went into self-isolation. Qureshi on Friday announced that he had tested positive for the coronavirus, joining a long list of Pakistani lawmakers who have contracted the deadly virus. "I have now tested positive for Covid-19. By the grace of Allah, I feel strong and energetic. I will continue to carry on my duties from home. Please keep me in your prayers,? he said in a tweet on July 3. Earlier, Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) leader and Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications Syed Aminul Haq had tested positive for the coronavirus. A week earlier than that PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said she had tested positive. Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Jai Prakash, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Minister of State for Narcotics Shehryar Afridi and PTI's chief whip in the National Assembly Aamir Dogar have also been diagnosed with COVID-19. In June, Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Munir Khan Orakzai died, days after recovering from the coronavirus. Eight members of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly have also been infected with the coronavirus. National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser was also infected but recovered.

COVID-hit Pak FM Qureshi dismisses reports of his death as 'false news'

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi wrote a letter to the top UN officials, highlighting the Kashmir issue, the Foreign Office said on Saturday.

The minister addressed another "comprehensive communication" to the UN Security Council President and the UN Secretary General, apprising them of the latest situation in Kashmir through a letter of 21 May, the FO said.

In his letter, Qureshi has drawn attention towards India's new domicile rules in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that it was in clear violation of the UN resolutions, it said.

He also conveyed Pakistan's concern over the alleged ceasefire violations at the Line of Control and the Working Boundary.

Qureshi rejected the "baseless Indian allegations? of so-called "launch pads" of "infiltrators". He underlined that the "real Indian motive" behind blaming Pakistan is to create a pretext for a "false flag" operation, about which Pakistan has been forewarning the international community.

He earlier sent a letter to the President of the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations Secretary General on March 9, 2020.

Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of the Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi wrote a letter to the top UN officials, highlighting the Kashmir issue, the Foreign Office said on Saturday. The minister addressed another "comprehensive communication" to the UN Security Council President and the UN Secretary General, apprising them of the latest situation in Kashmir through a letter of 21 May, the FO said.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi wrote a letter to the top UN officials, highlighting the Kashmir issue, the Foreign Office said on Saturday. The minister addressed another "comprehensive communication" to the UN Security Council President and the UN Secretary General, apprising them of the latest situation in Kashmir through a letter of 21 May, the FO said. In his letter, Qureshi has drawn attention towards India's new domicile rules in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that it was in clear violation of the UN resolutions, it said. He also conveyed Pakistan's concern over the alleged ceasefire violations at the Line of Control and the Working Boundary. Qureshi rejected the "baseless Indian allegations? of so-called "launch pads" of "infiltrators". He underlined that the "real Indian motive" behind blaming Pakistan is to create a pretext for a "false flag" operation, about which Pakistan has been forewarning the international community. He earlier sent a letter to the President of the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations Secretary General on March 9, 2020. Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of the Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Qureshi writes to UN officials on situation in Kashmir: FO

Why political leaders don't get social distancing? There's a palpable sense of fear about how infectious the coronavirus is. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy reopens with strict guidelines after nearly two months Rich or poor, young or old, nobody's immune to this virus, not even top political leaders.

Why political leaders don't get social distancing? There's a palpable sense of fear about how infectious the coronavirus is. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy reopens with strict guidelines after nearly two months Rich or poor, young or old, nobody's immune to this virus, not even top political leaders. Leaders, who just don't understand the concept of social distancing. First, we had the British prime minister Boris Johnson. He wanted to shake hands with everybody -- even coronavirus patients. When confronted Johnson proudly stated that a virus will not stop him from greeting people. The virus only sent him to the ICU! Also read: Global coronavirus: Cases, death-toll and hotspots! Now we have another leader hell-bent on proving social distancing useless and his name is Jair Bolsonaro --- the president of Brazil. For 3 months now, Bolsonaro has downplayed how infectious this virus is. The trajectory of coronavirus in Brazil is reflective of Bolsonaro's denial. There are over 101,000 cases and counting. There have been more than 7,000 deaths. What does the Brazilian president plan on doing to break the chain of transmission? Yet here's what's happening in Brazil. A protest! The Brazilian president himself leads these protests. This is Jair Bolsonaro leading an anti-stay at home protest. Thousands of supporters were allowed into the courtyard of the presidential palace. Jair Bolsonaro himself did not wear a mask. He said: "Guys, it's a spontaneous demonstration, in defence of democracy, of freedom, to govern without interference to work for the future of Brazil. I am sure that this goal will be reached because we all want the good of our country. Thank you all, I will stay here for a while!" The virus was not too nice the last time a leader defied social distancing and then there are some leaders who are not too nice when questioned about social distancing. Like Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the Foreign Minister who is quite sprightly for his age. He turned up at a coronavirus treatment centre without a mask. He then decided to hold a press conference in defiance of social distancing. When confronted by reporters -- this lawmaker told them that they weren't following the rules either. He responded by calling it "negative thinking". Pakistan has recorded its highest spike in coronavirus cases with 1,900 new infections have been reported in the last 24 hours. The negative approach of the Pakistan government is doing enough damage.

Political leaders defy their own by breaking 'self-made' coronavirus protocols!

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi invited the wrath of many when he misbehaved with a journalist over a question in a press briefing.

In a video doing rounds on the internet, Qureshi can be seen slamming a reporter who asked him why he was not following physical distancing guidelines amid the coronavirus lockdown.&nbsp;

The video is&nbsp;shared by Pakistani journalist Naila Inayat on Twitter.

Qureshi, when asked the question, gets angry and asks&nbsp;the reporter: "Are you following social distancing?"

"You shouldn't have come here, did I invite you? This is negative thinking. I have come to provide a service and you are doing your job. You do your work and let me do mine," he adds.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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At a presser reporter asks foreign minister why he's not following physical distancing. Qureshi gets angry, tells the reporter: You shouldn't have come, did I invite you? <a href="https://t.co/ZJWv6Mtmrp">pic.twitter.com/ZJWv6Mtmrp</a>
— Naila Inayat नायला इनायत (@nailainayat) <a href="https://twitter.com/nailainayat/status/1257016167841042435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Last month, a Station House Officer (SHO) in Multan had complained about Qureshi's misbehaviour.

As told, Qureshi directed the SHO to change his attitude towards the public, but in doing so, he issued physical threats.

"Kaam karna hai toh karo, nahin toh gardan se pakad ke nikaal doonga," Qureshi had warned the officer.&nbsp;

This video was also posted by Inayat.

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Shah Mehmood Qureshi threatening a SHO in Multan: "Gardan se pakr k nikal du ga", "kaam karna hai karo warna na karo". 
 
This man is the foreign minister of Pakistan and a PM-aspirant forever. <a href="https://t.co/BkMbKOr05j">pic.twitter.com/BkMbKOr05j</a>
— Naila Inayat नायला इनायत (@nailainayat) <a href="https://twitter.com/nailainayat/status/1252232215708135424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Pakistan's tally of the coronavirus cases crossed the 20,000-mark on Monday after 1,083 new infections were diagnosed.

In the last 24 hours, 1,083 new cases were reported, taking the total to 20,186 patients.

There were 22 deaths during this period, upping the fatalities to 462. A total of 5,590 patients have recovered in the country.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi invited the wrath of many when he misbehaved with a journalist over a question in a press briefing. In a video doing rounds on the internet, Qureshi can be seen slamming a reporter who asked him why he was not following physical distancing guidelines amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi invited the wrath of many when he misbehaved with a journalist over a question in a press briefing. In a video doing rounds on the internet, Qureshi can be seen slamming a reporter who asked him why he was not following physical distancing guidelines amid the coronavirus lockdown. The video is shared by Pakistani journalist Naila Inayat on Twitter. Qureshi, when asked the question, gets angry and asks the reporter: "Are you following social distancing?" "You shouldn't have come here, did I invite you? This is negative thinking. I have come to provide a service and you are doing your job. You do your work and let me do mine," he adds. At a presser reporter asks foreign minister why he's not following physical distancing. Qureshi gets angry, tells the reporter: You shouldn't have come, did I invite you? pic.twitter.com/ZJWv6Mtmrp — Naila Inayat नायला इनायत (@nailainayat) May 3, 2020 × Last month, a Station House Officer (SHO) in Multan had complained about Qureshi's misbehaviour. As told, Qureshi directed the SHO to change his attitude towards the public, but in doing so, he issued physical threats. "Kaam karna hai toh karo, nahin toh gardan se pakad ke nikaal doonga," Qureshi had warned the officer. This video was also posted by Inayat. Shah Mehmood Qureshi threatening a SHO in Multan: "Gardan se pakr k nikal du ga", "kaam karna hai karo warna na karo". This man is the foreign minister of Pakistan and a PM-aspirant forever. pic.twitter.com/BkMbKOr05j — Naila Inayat नायला इनायत (@nailainayat) April 20, 2020 × Meanwhile, Pakistan's tally of the coronavirus cases crossed the 20,000-mark on Monday after 1,083 new infections were diagnosed. In the last 24 hours, 1,083 new cases were reported, taking the total to 20,186 patients. There were 22 deaths during this period, upping the fatalities to 462. A total of 5,590 patients have recovered in the country.

Pak FM rebukes journalist who questioned him on social distancing

Pakistan is not imposing a lockdown in its country despite witnessing a rise in the coronavirus cases in the country, with the officials claiming that the situation is under control.

The country's first case of coronavirus, a&nbsp;22-year-old university student who had returned from Iran, was reported on February 26.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-cases-in-pakistan-near-5000-flight-ban-extended-291689" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases in Pakistan near 5,000; flight ban extended</a>

Iran, a country of eighty-three million people, had&nbsp;become one of the global epicentres of the coronavirus in the same month.

Just a few days after he had returned from a visit to Iran, Yahya Jafri, a Pakistani national, became “patient zero” of the country's now explosive coronavirus outbreak.

After he was tested positive,&nbsp;his family was moved to Aga Khan Hospital in Karachi, according to Meeran Yousuf, a spokesperson for Sindh province’s Health Department.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-pledges-3-million-to-saarc-covid-19-emergency-fund-291686" hreflang="en">Pakistan pledges $3 million to SAARC Covid-19 emergency Fund</a>

Around the same time several other Pakistanis returning from pilgrimage in Iran also tested positive for the virus, prompting authorities to suspend all flights to Iran.

Pakistan also took steps to&nbsp;close down its 960-km border with Iran&nbsp;in late February, in order to stem any spillover from the devastating impact of the epidemic on its neighbour.

But it could not deter&nbsp;Pakistani citizens from travelling to Iran in large numbers for pilgrimage.

As the situation became worse in Iran, the Pakistani government allowed some pilgrims to trickle back&nbsp;in batches, as they had been waiting at the border in dire conditions.

It is because of this reason that the country's cumulative total of those&nbsp;infected by the virus has risen to 4,601 people and claimed 66 lives in the country.

Pakistan is not imposing a lockdown in its country despite witnessing a rise in the coronavirus cases in the country, with the officials claiming that the situation is under control.

Pakistan is not imposing a lockdown in its country despite witnessing a rise in the coronavirus cases in the country, with the officials claiming that the situation is under control. The country's first case of coronavirus, a 22-year-old university student who had returned from Iran, was reported on February 26. Also read: Coronavirus cases in Pakistan near 5,000; flight ban extended Iran, a country of eighty-three million people, had become one of the global epicentres of the coronavirus in the same month. Just a few days after he had returned from a visit to Iran, Yahya Jafri, a Pakistani national, became “patient zero” of the country's now explosive coronavirus outbreak. After he was tested positive, his family was moved to Aga Khan Hospital in Karachi, according to Meeran Yousuf, a spokesperson for Sindh province’s Health Department. Also read: Pakistan pledges $3 million to SAARC Covid-19 emergency Fund Around the same time several other Pakistanis returning from pilgrimage in Iran also tested positive for the virus, prompting authorities to suspend all flights to Iran. Pakistan also took steps to close down its 960-km border with Iran in late February, in order to stem any spillover from the devastating impact of the epidemic on its neighbour. But it could not deter Pakistani citizens from travelling to Iran in large numbers for pilgrimage. As the situation became worse in Iran, the Pakistani government allowed some pilgrims to trickle back in batches, as they had been waiting at the border in dire conditions. It is because of this reason that the country's cumulative total of those infected by the virus has risen to 4,601 people and claimed 66 lives in the country.

Why has Pakistan recorded a surge in COVID-19 cases?

The Afghan government has taken a strong exception to comments made by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the backdrop of US-Taliban peace deal, calling it interference by Islamabad.

The Afghan government has taken a strong exception to comments made by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the backdrop of US-Taliban peace deal, calling it interference by Islamabad. Lodging a formal protest at the Pakistani embassy in Kabul, the Afghan foreign ministry in a statement said, "The Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan strongly condemned the recent remarks made by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, on the domestic affairs of Afghanistan." Asking Islamabad to take "practical steps" towards enhancing bilateral ties, Kabul asked Pakistan to refrain from making such ''irresponsible'' statements regarding the internal affairs of Afghanistan. Pakistani FM in a statement asked Afghanistan to release 5000 Taliban prisoners, riling up Afghan government. Afghan President Ghani has made it clear to the Taliban that no prisoner will be released till Intra-Afghan talks. Meanwhile, the Afghan government also summoned the Pakistani envoy to Afghanistan over misconduct by ISI officials towards Afghan envoy in Islamabad. The Afghan foreign ministry in another statement said, "this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles...The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, once again calls on the Pakistani Government to align its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan in compliance with international conventions and accepted diplomatic norms." The tiff between Ghani and Pakistan comes in the backdrop of US Taliban deal in Doha over the weekend, with Islamabad buoyed with prospects of Taliban, long considered Pakistan's proxies in Kabul. Meanwhile, the Afghanistan government has made it clear till the time Taliban complies with Intra Afghan talks, the 5000 prisoners won't be released. "Our position on prisoners are very clear. The release will be discussed when negotiations begin between the Taliban and the Afghan government", Sediq Sediqqi, Afghanistan spokesperson told WION. An initial contact group of Afghan govt, at the request of the Taliban, is in Qatar to initiate talks with the latter but it won't discuss the release of prisoners.

Afghanistan raps Pakistan FM Qureshi for comments on its internal affairs 

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