The inaugural edition of the Afghan Peace Conference titled “Lahore Process” is being held in Bhurban today. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will address the inaugural session of the conference, which will be attended by heads of political parties and political stalwarts from Afghanistan. Gulbadin Hikmatyar, Ustad Atta Noor, Chairman Afghan High Peace Council and former vice-president Karim Khalili, Second Deputy Chief Executive Officer Mohammad Mohaqiq as well as Uzbek leader and current vice-president Rashid Dostum will attend the peace conference.

Afghan Peace Conference 'Lahore Process' in Bhurban

India has rubbished reports in Pakistani media that PM Modi wrote a letter to his Pakistani counterpart expressing desire to resume talks between the two countries.

Responding to queries on PM Modi's response to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's congratulatory message on BJP's win in Indian general elections, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "The Indian response is as per the established diplomatic practice and the India side highlighted that New Delhi seeks normal and cooperative relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan."

PM Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, responding to congratulatory letters by Imran Khan and Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi, asked Islamabad to create an environment free of terror. India seeks normal and cooperative relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan, both PM Modi and foreign minister Jaishankar highlighted in their letters.

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In his message, PM Modi said, "It is important to build an environment of trust, free of terror, violence and hostility." Foreign minister Jaishankar emphasised the need for an "atmosphere free from the shadow of terror and violence".

India has said no talks with Pakistan will happen till it takes action on terror groups on its territory and that has been Modi government's policy in its first term.

During the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO meet in Bishkek both Indian and Pakistani premiers were in the same room many times but no bilateral meeting or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-modi-imran-pull-aside-at-sco-as-new-delhi-strongly-raises-terror-227148">pull-aside</a> happened though <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-imran-khan-exchange-pleasantries-at-sco-summit-227199">pleasantries were exchanged</a> once.

Pakistani PM Imran Khan had called PM Modi after his election victory on May 23. During the conversation, no invite was extended to Imran Khan for the oath-taking of Narendra Modi on May 30 and New Delhi had called for the need to create an environment free of terrorism.

Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India has rubbished reports in Pakistani media that PM Modi wrote a letter to his Pakistani counterpart expressing desire to resume talks between the two countries.

India has rubbished reports in Pakistani media that PM Modi wrote a letter to his Pakistani counterpart expressing desire to resume talks between the two countries. Responding to queries on PM Modi's response to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's congratulatory message on BJP's win in Indian general elections, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "The Indian response is as per the established diplomatic practice and the India side highlighted that New Delhi seeks normal and cooperative relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan." PM Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, responding to congratulatory letters by Imran Khan and Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi, asked Islamabad to create an environment free of terror. India seeks normal and cooperative relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan, both PM Modi and foreign minister Jaishankar highlighted in their letters. × In his message, PM Modi said, "It is important to build an environment of trust, free of terror, violence and hostility." Foreign minister Jaishankar emphasised the need for an "atmosphere free from the shadow of terror and violence". India has said no talks with Pakistan will happen till it takes action on terror groups on its territory and that has been Modi government's policy in its first term. During the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO meet in Bishkek both Indian and Pakistani premiers were in the same room many times but no bilateral meeting or pull-aside happened though pleasantries were exchanged once. Pakistani PM Imran Khan had called PM Modi after his election victory on May 23. During the conversation, no invite was extended to Imran Khan for the oath-taking of Narendra Modi on May 30 and New Delhi had called for the need to create an environment free of terrorism. Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India rubbishes Pak media reports on PM Modi's letter, says terror and talks can't go together

Given the current state of the Pakistani economy, the country`s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday directed his cabinet to fully implement austerity measures and adopt a "simple lifestyle.

"During the meeting of the federal cabinet, the leader also outlined all the austerity measures undertaken by him, according to his Special Assistant on Information, Firdous Ashiq Awan.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-stocks-crash-as-pm-imran-receives-insufficient-imf-bailout-218461">PM Imran Khan</a> asked the ministers to set an example for others by adopting simple lifestyle keeping in view the current economic challenges faced by Pakistan," The News International quoted the Special Assistant as saying.

Highlighting the steps taken by him, she said that while the previous government had allocated Rs 1.10 billion for the Prime Minister`s House, the incumbent government had saved 32 per cent of the amount by spending only Rs 750 million out of it.

She also blamed the media for failing to "accurately report" the amount set aside for the Prime Minister`s House in the current budget.

Awan said the PM House expenses have already seen a cut of 13 per cent in the budget 2019-20.

The Special Assistant also criticised the role of opposition in the National Assembly, labelling the criticism heaped by the opposition regarding the budget as "illogical".

During the meeting, Khan stated that he, along with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi would be attending the UN General Assembly session in New York in September.

The Cabinet was also told that 157 rest houses belonging to various government departments along with Pakistan Tourism Development Corp (PTDC) motels and National Highway Authority (NHA) rest houses will be opened to the public.

Given the current state of the Pakistani economy, the country`s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday directed his cabinet to fully implement austerity measures and adopt a "simple lifestyle.

Given the current state of the Pakistani economy, the country`s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday directed his cabinet to fully implement austerity measures and adopt a "simple lifestyle. "During the meeting of the federal cabinet, the leader also outlined all the austerity measures undertaken by him, according to his Special Assistant on Information, Firdous Ashiq Awan. "PM Imran Khan asked the ministers to set an example for others by adopting simple lifestyle keeping in view the current economic challenges faced by Pakistan," The News International quoted the Special Assistant as saying. Highlighting the steps taken by him, she said that while the previous government had allocated Rs 1.10 billion for the Prime Minister`s House, the incumbent government had saved 32 per cent of the amount by spending only Rs 750 million out of it. She also blamed the media for failing to "accurately report" the amount set aside for the Prime Minister`s House in the current budget. Awan said the PM House expenses have already seen a cut of 13 per cent in the budget 2019-20. The Special Assistant also criticised the role of opposition in the National Assembly, labelling the criticism heaped by the opposition regarding the budget as "illogical". During the meeting, Khan stated that he, along with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi would be attending the UN General Assembly session in New York in September. The Cabinet was also told that 157 rest houses belonging to various government departments along with Pakistan Tourism Development Corp (PTDC) motels and National Highway Authority (NHA) rest houses will be opened to the public.

Pakistan prime minister directs cabinet to implement austerity measures

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart&nbsp;Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.&nbsp;

According to Pakistan government sources, the letters underscored Pakistan's consistent policy of peaceful neighbourhood and the vision of working for durable peace and stability in South Asia.

Adding further, the sources said letter&nbsp;emphasised on the need to work together, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, to address challenges faced by people of both the countries, including poverty and underdevelopment.

The&nbsp;letter also called for the need to advance the goals of regional peace, progress and prosperity through collective endeavours was also underscored.

Ties between the two neighbouring countries have remained frayed since the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a United Nations-listed terror group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack

Pakistan's overture comes against the backdrop of the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. The Minister of External Affairs termed the visit purely "personal".

Meanwhile, the MEA has rejected the reports of a formal meeting between PM Modi and his counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan but a pull aside not ruled out.

"To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told WION.

Following the Pulwama attack, India went into overdrive to target Pakistan from multiple fronts. The country's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, prompting a counter-offensive by Pakistan the next day. At the same time, New Delhi worked the diplomatic phone lines to isolate Pakistan internationally.

The first breakthrough came after China allowed the UN to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist.

Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to PM Modi on phone and expressed his desire to work together for peace and prosperity in the region.

Modi on his part called for creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering peace and prosperity in the region.

India has rejected Pakistan's offer of talks, maintaining that terror and talks cannot go together.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad. According to Pakistan government sources, the letters underscored Pakistan's consistent policy of peaceful neighbourhood and the vision of working for durable peace and stability in South Asia. Adding further, the sources said letter emphasised on the need to work together, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, to address challenges faced by people of both the countries, including poverty and underdevelopment. The letter also called for the need to advance the goals of regional peace, progress and prosperity through collective endeavours was also underscored. Ties between the two neighbouring countries have remained frayed since the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a United Nations-listed terror group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack Pakistan's overture comes against the backdrop of the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. The Minister of External Affairs termed the visit purely "personal". Meanwhile, the MEA has rejected the reports of a formal meeting between PM Modi and his counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan but a pull aside not ruled out. "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told WION. Following the Pulwama attack, India went into overdrive to target Pakistan from multiple fronts. The country's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, prompting a counter-offensive by Pakistan the next day. At the same time, New Delhi worked the diplomatic phone lines to isolate Pakistan internationally. The first breakthrough came after China allowed the UN to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to PM Modi on phone and expressed his desire to work together for peace and prosperity in the region. Modi on his part called for creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering peace and prosperity in the region. India has rejected Pakistan's offer of talks, maintaining that terror and talks cannot go together.

Pakistan's Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, seeks to maintain peaceful neighbourhood

Pakistan Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi congratulated India's news Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Jaishankar. Watch this video to know more.

News Alert: Pakistan Foreign Minister congratulates Dr. Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-speaks-out-against-terror-at-sco-fms-meet-in-kyrgyzstan-220584">Shanghai Cooperation Organisation </a>meeting in Kyrgyzstan.

The two leaders discussed issues of bilateral interest, including the implementation of understanding reached during last year's Wuhan Summit.

The meeting came a month after India skipped the OBOR in China last month. The two South Asian countries, meanwhile, continue to build on their ties post the battle over Masood Azhar at the UNSC.&nbsp;

"Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges. EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of #SCO Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including the implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.&nbsp;

Swaraj who arrived here on Tuesday to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council (SCO) of Foreign Ministers in the Kyrgyz capital, also had a brief encounter with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

Earlier today as the delegates of member nations met, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Indian Foreign Minister Swaraj were seen standing next to each other.

This was the first time that top government functionaries of both countries came face to face post the Pulwama attacks.

It was also the first time since that strike that Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Qureshi were seen under the same roof.

Tensions escalated between the two countries after the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF men. It was followed by the Indian Air Force striking Jaish-e-Mohammed terror launchpads deep inside Pakstan.

India raised the issue of Pulwama and the recent attacks in Sri Lanka.

Swaraj said that India is open to strengthening the Regional Anti-Terror Structure or RATS of SCO to fight terrorism and security challenges in the region.

The meeting comes at a time when Pakistan is seeking talks with Delhi and is keen to push the restart button with India.

India maintains that talks and terror can't go hand in hand.

India will also raise the issue of region-specific terror, weeks after it successfully ensured a global blacklisting of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar at the UNSC.

India through its successful issue-based negotiations has made Pakistan-based cross-border terror a central theme on international platforms.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in Kyrgyzstan.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in Kyrgyzstan. The two leaders discussed issues of bilateral interest, including the implementation of understanding reached during last year's Wuhan Summit. The meeting came a month after India skipped the OBOR in China last month. The two South Asian countries, meanwhile, continue to build on their ties post the battle over Masood Azhar at the UNSC. "Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges. EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of #SCO Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including the implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. Swaraj who arrived here on Tuesday to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council (SCO) of Foreign Ministers in the Kyrgyz capital, also had a brief encounter with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Earlier today as the delegates of member nations met, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Indian Foreign Minister Swaraj were seen standing next to each other. This was the first time that top government functionaries of both countries came face to face post the Pulwama attacks. It was also the first time since that strike that Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Qureshi were seen under the same roof. Tensions escalated between the two countries after the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF men. It was followed by the Indian Air Force striking Jaish-e-Mohammed terror launchpads deep inside Pakstan. India raised the issue of Pulwama and the recent attacks in Sri Lanka. Swaraj said that India is open to strengthening the Regional Anti-Terror Structure or RATS of SCO to fight terrorism and security challenges in the region. The meeting comes at a time when Pakistan is seeking talks with Delhi and is keen to push the restart button with India. India maintains that talks and terror can't go hand in hand. India will also raise the issue of region-specific terror, weeks after it successfully ensured a global blacklisting of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar at the UNSC. India through its successful issue-based negotiations has made Pakistan-based cross-border terror a central theme on international platforms.

Sushma Swaraj meets Chinese counterpart, shares dais with Pak Foreign Minister at SCO meet

Fifty-two Pakistani immigrants<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-imposes-visa-restrictions-on-three-senior-pakistani-officials-218864"> deported by the US</a> have arrived here by a special flight amid tight security, a media report said Thursday.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs on Tuesday that US authorities detained and prosecuted the Pakistani nationals for immigration violations, criminal conduct and other serious charges.

Dawn newspaper, quoting immigration sources, reported that 53 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-currency-reaches-all-time-low-against-us-dollar-219221">Pakistanis</a> were scheduled to be deported, but 52 arrived on Wednesday as one person fell sick at the US airport and was not sent back.

US security officials were guarding the Pakistani deportees when they arrived at the Islamabad International Airport. Soon after landing, they asked the Pakistani authorities to take custody of the deportees who had been arrested by the US police.&nbsp;

The Trump administration recently launched a crackdown on the foreigners who stayed in the US even after the expiry of their visas. The 52 Pakistanis were among those who overstayed in the US, the report said.

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A senior official of the Federal Investigation Agency said the deportees were allowed to go after verification of their travel documents. The official parried a question about the fate of those involved in petty crimes and deported by the US, the report said.

Qureshi had also confirmed that the US denied visas to three senior Pakistani officials following a row between the two countries over the deportation of dozens of Pakistanis in America for their visa overstay and other allegations.

The Pakistani officials who faced US visa restrictions are an additional secretary, a joint secretary of the interior ministry and the director general passports, the minister said on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, nine Pakistani illegal immigrants deported from Greece were taken into custody after their arrival at Islamabad International Airport by a separate flight and shifted to the FIA's Anti-Human Trafficking Cell.&nbsp;

The FIA official said the deportees were kept at the cell's jail for further legal proceeding as they had gone to Europe through land route and were later caught by the Greek authorities.&nbsp;

He said that since the nine deportees belonged to Gujrat district in Punjab province, they would be shifted to FIA Gujranwala for a further legal proceeding.&nbsp;

Fifty-two Pakistani immigrants deported by the US have arrived here by a special flight amid tight security, a media report said Thursday. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs on Tuesday that US authorities detained and prosecuted the Pakistani nationals for immigration violations, criminal conduct and other serious charges.

Fifty-two Pakistani immigrants deported by the US have arrived here by a special flight amid tight security, a media report said Thursday. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs on Tuesday that US authorities detained and prosecuted the Pakistani nationals for immigration violations, criminal conduct and other serious charges. Dawn newspaper, quoting immigration sources, reported that 53 Pakistanis were scheduled to be deported, but 52 arrived on Wednesday as one person fell sick at the US airport and was not sent back. US security officials were guarding the Pakistani deportees when they arrived at the Islamabad International Airport. Soon after landing, they asked the Pakistani authorities to take custody of the deportees who had been arrested by the US police. The Trump administration recently launched a crackdown on the foreigners who stayed in the US even after the expiry of their visas. The 52 Pakistanis were among those who overstayed in the US, the report said. × A senior official of the Federal Investigation Agency said the deportees were allowed to go after verification of their travel documents. The official parried a question about the fate of those involved in petty crimes and deported by the US, the report said. Qureshi had also confirmed that the US denied visas to three senior Pakistani officials following a row between the two countries over the deportation of dozens of Pakistanis in America for their visa overstay and other allegations. The Pakistani officials who faced US visa restrictions are an additional secretary, a joint secretary of the interior ministry and the director general passports, the minister said on Tuesday. Meanwhile, nine Pakistani illegal immigrants deported from Greece were taken into custody after their arrival at Islamabad International Airport by a separate flight and shifted to the FIA's Anti-Human Trafficking Cell. The FIA official said the deportees were kept at the cell's jail for further legal proceeding as they had gone to Europe through land route and were later caught by the Greek authorities. He said that since the nine deportees belonged to Gujrat district in Punjab province, they would be shifted to FIA Gujranwala for a further legal proceeding.

US deports 52 Pakistani nationals for staying with expired visa

In a bid to increase its border security, Pakistan will be fencing its border with Iran in the wake of the Ormara incident which saw <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-protest-with-iran-over-inaction-against-balochistan-bus-attack-211987">14 Pakistani people being killed</a> on the Makran Coastal Highway recently.

"It is costly and Pakistan has tight economy but considering its importance we have decided to fence it," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshi-to-visit-japan-211992">Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> said on Saturday.

Fourteen Pakistanis were shot dead, after three to four buses travelling from Ormara to Gwadar were stopped by around 15-20 terrorists, wearing the Frontier Corps (FC) uniform, on the coastal highway at Buzi Top on April 18, according to Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Pakistani authorities have alleged that BRAS, the alliance of three Baloch terrorist organisations, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan lodged a strong protest with Iran over the country's "inaction" against the group behind the attack, according to The Express Tribune.

"Actionable intelligence after investigations has been shared with Iranian authorities. Location of the camps has also been identified by us. We expect Tehran to take action against these entities," Qureshi stated.

He further said that he had spoken to his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif, conveying "the sorrow and anger of the Pakistani masses" at the incident. The Pakistani minister added that Zarif had "strongly condemned the incident and reassured full cooperation."

Qureshi also announced that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan would be visiting Iran on April 21, during which the two sides "will get a chance to discuss a mechanism which can be put in place to prevent further incidents."

Quoting Qureshi, The Express Tribune further reported that six steps have already been taken to make the Iran-Pakistan border more peaceful. The steps include setting up a new Southern command in Turbat for vigilance and prompt action and establishing joint border centres.&nbsp;

In a bid to increase its border security, Pakistan will be fencing its border with Iran in the wake of the Ormara incident which saw 14 Pakistani people being killed on the Makran Coastal Highway recently.

In a bid to increase its border security, Pakistan will be fencing its border with Iran in the wake of the Ormara incident which saw 14 Pakistani people being killed on the Makran Coastal Highway recently. "It is costly and Pakistan has tight economy but considering its importance we have decided to fence it," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Saturday. Fourteen Pakistanis were shot dead, after three to four buses travelling from Ormara to Gwadar were stopped by around 15-20 terrorists, wearing the Frontier Corps (FC) uniform, on the coastal highway at Buzi Top on April 18, according to Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pakistani authorities have alleged that BRAS, the alliance of three Baloch terrorist organisations, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan lodged a strong protest with Iran over the country's "inaction" against the group behind the attack, according to The Express Tribune. "Actionable intelligence after investigations has been shared with Iranian authorities. Location of the camps has also been identified by us. We expect Tehran to take action against these entities," Qureshi stated. He further said that he had spoken to his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif, conveying "the sorrow and anger of the Pakistani masses" at the incident. The Pakistani minister added that Zarif had "strongly condemned the incident and reassured full cooperation." Qureshi also announced that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan would be visiting Iran on April 21, during which the two sides "will get a chance to discuss a mechanism which can be put in place to prevent further incidents." Quoting Qureshi, The Express Tribune further reported that six steps have already been taken to make the Iran-Pakistan border more peaceful. The steps include setting up a new Southern command in Turbat for vigilance and prompt action and establishing joint border centres.

Pakistan to fence its border with Iran following Ormara incident: Qureshi

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday.

During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal, in a statement on Friday, said that the Foreign Minister`s visit will help further deepen our friendly ties and advance mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in diverse fields.

This comes months after Qureshi had cancelled his scheduled visit of Japan amid tensions with India after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed.

Japan condemned the attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group had claimed responsibility. Japan also urged Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday. During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will embark on a four-day visit to Japan on Sunday. During his visit, the minister is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with other dignitaries, reported Radio Pakistan. Foreign Office Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal, in a statement on Friday, said that the Foreign Minister`s visit will help further deepen our friendly ties and advance mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in diverse fields. This comes months after Qureshi had cancelled his scheduled visit of Japan amid tensions with India after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed. Japan condemned the attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group had claimed responsibility. Japan also urged Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to visit Japan

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region".

The MEA, in its statement, added that Qureshi's statement was a "public gimmick" which appears to be a "call to Pakistan-based terrorists to undertake a terror attack in India".&nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan, after its attempted attack on Indian military installations on February 27, had told the international community that India may launch missiles against it.

Qureshi seemed to suggest Sunday that a terror attack may occur in Kashmir sometime after April 16,&nbsp;on the pretext of which India will attack Pakistan. Responding to that, New Delhi advised Islamabad to use established "diplomatic and DGMO channels" to share any actionable and credible intelligence it has about imminent terror attacks.&nbsp;

Remember, India-Pakistan DGMO talks take place every Tuesday.

The MEA also reminded Pakistan that it needs to take "credible and irreversible" steps against terrorism operating from all territories under its control rather than making "hysterical statements to obfuscate the core issue that bedevils our region: cross-border terrorism".&nbsp;

Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted since the Febuary 14 Pulwama terror attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. The attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

Twelve days later, on February 26, the Indian Air Force conducted a "surgical strike" on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. &nbsp;

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region".

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region". The MEA, in its statement, added that Qureshi's statement was a "public gimmick" which appears to be a "call to Pakistan-based terrorists to undertake a terror attack in India". Interestingly, Pakistan, after its attempted attack on Indian military installations on February 27, had told the international community that India may launch missiles against it. Qureshi seemed to suggest Sunday that a terror attack may occur in Kashmir sometime after April 16, on the pretext of which India will attack Pakistan. Responding to that, New Delhi advised Islamabad to use established "diplomatic and DGMO channels" to share any actionable and credible intelligence it has about imminent terror attacks. Remember, India-Pakistan DGMO talks take place every Tuesday. The MEA also reminded Pakistan that it needs to take "credible and irreversible" steps against terrorism operating from all territories under its control rather than making "hysterical statements to obfuscate the core issue that bedevils our region: cross-border terrorism". Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted since the Febuary 14 Pulwama terror attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. The attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed. Twelve days later, on February 26, the Indian Air Force conducted a "surgical strike" on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province.

'Preposterous' says New Delhi after Pakistan claims India is planning to attack it

China backed its "iron friend" Pakistan on Tuesday, applauding its recent<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-hold-more-talks-with-india-on-blacklisting-masood-azhar-china-203655"> counter-terrorism measures</a> as Islamabad faces criticism for harbouring militants.

"China commends Pakistan's recent strong counter-terrorism measures at home," foreign minister Wang Yi told reporters after meeting with his Pakistani counterpart&nbsp;Shah Mehmood Qureshi

"We fully support Pakistan in carrying through its counter-terrorism campaign," Wang said.

Since March 5, Pakistani authorities have arrested hundreds of suspected militants and shuttered more than 700 madrassas, mosques, and clinics linked to banned groups.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GKb16_MxfIc" width="560"></iframe>

Islamabad has come under pressure to demonstrate it is sincere about eliminating militancy, but the crackdown has yet to convince the international community.

"We also call on the international community to adopt a fair perspective of the commitments and efforts made by Pakistan over the years to combat terrorism," Wang said as he stood beside Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

New Delhi has long accused Islamabad of harbouring terrorist&nbsp;groups, which it says are used by Pakistan intelligence agencies to launch attacks on India.

On&nbsp;February 14 suicide blast in Pulwama in J&amp;K&nbsp;killed over 40 CRPF troops - claimed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/european-union-begins-discussions-on-declaring-masood-azhar-a-terrorist-204354">Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM)</a>. However, China a long-time ally of Pakistan, last week blocked measures by the UN Security Council to blacklist JeM leader Masood Azhar.&nbsp;

It was the fourth time China has blocked such attempts, reinforcing suspicions that it was acting on Pakistan's behest.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Pakistan expressed gratitude for China's continued support as it faces international criticism.

"Pakistan appreciates the role China has played once again, standing by Pakistan in these difficult times," Shah said.

"We have been cooperating against this menace of terrorism, and we feel strengthening this in relevant fields is important," Shah said.

"We have made considerable progress vis-a-vis terrorism, we have paid a huge price, everybody recognises that," Shah said.&nbsp;

Wang welcomed Shah to Beijing by noting China calls&nbsp;Pakistan "our iron friends" because Islamabad "provides us with iron-like support" on Beijing's core issues of concern. &nbsp;

"Of course, China does the same," Wang said.

China backed its "iron friend" Pakistan on Tuesday, applauding its recent counter-terrorism measures as Islamabad faces criticism for harbouring militants. "China commends Pakistan's recent strong counter-terrorism measures at home," foreign minister Wang Yi told reporters after meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi "We fully support Pakistan in carrying through its counter-terrorism campaign," Wang said.

China backed its "iron friend" Pakistan on Tuesday, applauding its recent counter-terrorism measures as Islamabad faces criticism for harbouring militants. "China commends Pakistan's recent strong counter-terrorism measures at home," foreign minister Wang Yi told reporters after meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi "We fully support Pakistan in carrying through its counter-terrorism campaign," Wang said. Since March 5, Pakistani authorities have arrested hundreds of suspected militants and shuttered more than 700 madrassas, mosques, and clinics linked to banned groups. Islamabad has come under pressure to demonstrate it is sincere about eliminating militancy, but the crackdown has yet to convince the international community. "We also call on the international community to adopt a fair perspective of the commitments and efforts made by Pakistan over the years to combat terrorism," Wang said as he stood beside Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. New Delhi has long accused Islamabad of harbouring terrorist groups, which it says are used by Pakistan intelligence agencies to launch attacks on India. On February 14 suicide blast in Pulwama in J&K killed over 40 CRPF troops - claimed by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM). However, China a long-time ally of Pakistan, last week blocked measures by the UN Security Council to blacklist JeM leader Masood Azhar. It was the fourth time China has blocked such attempts, reinforcing suspicions that it was acting on Pakistan's behest. On Tuesday, Pakistan expressed gratitude for China's continued support as it faces international criticism. "Pakistan appreciates the role China has played once again, standing by Pakistan in these difficult times," Shah said. "We have been cooperating against this menace of terrorism, and we feel strengthening this in relevant fields is important," Shah said. "We have made considerable progress vis-a-vis terrorism, we have paid a huge price, everybody recognises that," Shah said. Wang welcomed Shah to Beijing by noting China calls Pakistan "our iron friends" because Islamabad "provides us with iron-like support" on Beijing's core issues of concern. "Of course, China does the same," Wang said.

Fully support Pakistan in carrying out counter-terrorism campaign: China

US National security advisor talks to Pakistan FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Saudi's top diplomat met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday and delivered a "special message" from powerful Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, amid global efforts to de-escalate Indo-Pak tensions, according to media reports.

Saudi State Minister for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir called on Prime Minister Khan at his office where the two discussed the ongoing Indo-Pak tensions and matters of regional and bilateral interest, Geo TV reported.

Jubeir conveyed him a special message of the crown prince, it added.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, PM's adviser on trade, secretary foreign affairs and other higher officials were present during the meeting.

Ahead of his meeting with Khan, Jubeir met Qureshi and discussed Pakistan's recent tensions with India, regional security and bilateral relations.

The Saudi diplomat assured Qureshi of his country's support towards solving the issues with India in a peaceful manner.

According to Pakistan Foreign Office, Jubeir will also meet Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Jubeir was earlier supposed to visit Pakistan on March 1 but it was delayed due to heightened tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi.

Tensions between India and Pakistan flared up after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14.

India launched a counter-terror operation in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 and captured its pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was handed over to India on March 1.

Countries like the US, the UK, China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE were involved in easing tensions between India and Pakistan.

While announcing the Saudi minister's visit, Foreign Minister Qureshi Wednesday said that the Saudi envoy is coming to Pakistan with a "special message" from Crown Prince Mohammad.

Jubeir's visit comes after the crown prince stand-alone visits to Pakistan and India soon after the Pulwama terror attack.

Saudi's top diplomat met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday and delivered a "special message" from powerful Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, amid global efforts to de-escalate Indo-Pak tensions, according to media reports.

Saudi's top diplomat met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday and delivered a "special message" from powerful Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, amid global efforts to de-escalate Indo-Pak tensions, according to media reports. Saudi State Minister for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir called on Prime Minister Khan at his office where the two discussed the ongoing Indo-Pak tensions and matters of regional and bilateral interest, Geo TV reported. Jubeir conveyed him a special message of the crown prince, it added. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, PM's adviser on trade, secretary foreign affairs and other higher officials were present during the meeting. Ahead of his meeting with Khan, Jubeir met Qureshi and discussed Pakistan's recent tensions with India, regional security and bilateral relations. The Saudi diplomat assured Qureshi of his country's support towards solving the issues with India in a peaceful manner. According to Pakistan Foreign Office, Jubeir will also meet Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. Jubeir was earlier supposed to visit Pakistan on March 1 but it was delayed due to heightened tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi. Tensions between India and Pakistan flared up after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. India launched a counter-terror operation in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 and captured its pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was handed over to India on March 1. Countries like the US, the UK, China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE were involved in easing tensions between India and Pakistan. While announcing the Saudi minister's visit, Foreign Minister Qureshi Wednesday said that the Saudi envoy is coming to Pakistan with a "special message" from Crown Prince Mohammad. Jubeir's visit comes after the crown prince stand-alone visits to Pakistan and India soon after the Pulwama terror attack.

Saudi envoy meets PM Imran Khan amid Indo-Pak tensions, conveys Crown Prince's special message 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-warning-to-pakistan-indian-army-says-loc-relatively-calm-201595">Further provocation by Pakistan along LoC will be met with dire consequences: Indian Army</a>

The Indian Army said Wednesday that post its warning to the Pakistani Army “NOT to target civilian areas”, the Line of Control has been "relatively calm".&nbsp;

"In the last 24 hours, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense &amp; unprovoked firing with heavy calibre weapons in selected areas of Krishna Ghati and Sunderbani, targeting Indian posts &amp; civilian areas with Mortar bombs &amp; heavy Arty (artillery) Guns," the Indian Army said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-government-what-it-did-after-it-says-rafale-documents-were-stolen-201562">Supreme Court asks </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-government-what-it-did-after-it-says-rafale-documents-were-stolen-201562">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-government-what-it-did-after-it-says-rafale-documents-were-stolen-201562"> what it did after it says Rafale documents were stolen</a>

The Supreme Court asked the government Wednesday what it did after documents related to the Rafale deal were allegedly stolen from the defence ministry. The allegation was made by Attorney General KK Venugopal.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-says-no-solution-for-now-to-break-brexit-deadlock-201582">EU says 'no solution' for now to break Brexit deadlock</a>

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said Wednesday "no solution" has been found so far to break the deadlock over Brexit, a spokesman reported after the latest negotiations in Brussels.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/school-attended-by-trump-says-it-concealed-his-grades-201574">School Trump went to says it concealed his grades</a>

A military academy that Donald Trump attended as a teenager concealed his academic records in 2011 in response to pressure from Trump allies, The Washington Post reported Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-send-envoy-sohail-mahmood-back-to-india-201537">Pakistan says it is sending High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood back to India</a>

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said Pakistan is sending its envoy back to India and is ready to engage with New Delhi to reduce tensions which are "de-escalating" due to diplomatic efforts by countries like the US, China and Russia.

Further provocation by Pakistan along LoC will be met with dire consequences: Indian Army The Indian Army said Wednesday that post its warning to the Pakistani Army “NOT to target civilian areas”, the Line of Control has been "relatively calm".

Further provocation by Pakistan along LoC will be met with dire consequences: Indian Army The Indian Army said Wednesday that post its warning to the Pakistani Army “NOT to target civilian areas”, the Line of Control has been "relatively calm". "In the last 24 hours, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense & unprovoked firing with heavy calibre weapons in selected areas of Krishna Ghati and Sunderbani, targeting Indian posts & civilian areas with Mortar bombs & heavy Arty (artillery) Guns," the Indian Army said in a statement. Supreme Court asks government what it did after it says Rafale documents were stolen The Supreme Court asked the government Wednesday what it did after documents related to the Rafale deal were allegedly stolen from the defence ministry. The allegation was made by Attorney General KK Venugopal. EU says 'no solution' for now to break Brexit deadlock EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said Wednesday "no solution" has been found so far to break the deadlock over Brexit, a spokesman reported after the latest negotiations in Brussels. School Trump went to says it concealed his grades A military academy that Donald Trump attended as a teenager concealed his academic records in 2011 in response to pressure from Trump allies, The Washington Post reported Tuesday. Pakistan says it is sending High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood back to India Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said Pakistan is sending its envoy back to India and is ready to engage with New Delhi to reduce tensions which are "de-escalating" due to diplomatic efforts by countries like the US, China and Russia.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/qureshi-hints-pakistan-may-not-oppose-listing-of-jem-chief-azhar-as-global-terrorist-by-unsc-201171">Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> on Wednesday said Pakistan is sending its envoy back to India and is ready to engage with New Delhi to reduce tensions which are "de-escalating" due to diplomatic efforts by countries like the US, China and Russia.

Qureshi said it is time to end all our conflicts and move towards peace.

He said that Pakistan wanted to sort out all issues with India which are hindering peace between the two countries.

"Tensions between India and Pakistan appear to be de-escalating and this is a positive development," Qureshi said while speaking to the media here.

"Pakistan has further increased diplomatic efforts and we have decided to send back the Pakistani high commissioner to New Delhi (Sohail Mahmood)," he added.&nbsp;

Pakistan had called its envoy back to Islamabad for urgent consultations in the wake of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-puts-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhars-son-brother-under-preventive-detention-201325">Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)</a> which left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Islamabad took the step after India called back its envoy Ajay Bisaria to New Delhi.&nbsp;

After the Pulwama attack, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26.

The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 and captured its pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman who was handed over to India on Friday.&nbsp;

The foreign minister also thanked US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for his role in the current situation with India. "I did not want to say it but private diplomacy worked," he said.

"US through private diplomacy played a role in de-escalating tensions between Pakistan and India," he said.&nbsp;

Qureshi said foreign ministers of China, Russia, Turkey, the UAE and Jordan also played a significant role in reducing tension between the two countries.&nbsp;

Qureshi said that a Pakistani delegation will visit New Delhi to hold dialogue over the Kartarpur Corridor.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said Pakistan is sending its envoy back to India and is ready to engage with New Delhi to reduce tensions which are "de-escalating" due to diplomatic efforts by countries like the US, China and Russia.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said Pakistan is sending its envoy back to India and is ready to engage with New Delhi to reduce tensions which are "de-escalating" due to diplomatic efforts by countries like the US, China and Russia. Qureshi said it is time to end all our conflicts and move towards peace. He said that Pakistan wanted to sort out all issues with India which are hindering peace between the two countries. "Tensions between India and Pakistan appear to be de-escalating and this is a positive development," Qureshi said while speaking to the media here. "Pakistan has further increased diplomatic efforts and we have decided to send back the Pakistani high commissioner to New Delhi (Sohail Mahmood)," he added. Pakistan had called its envoy back to Islamabad for urgent consultations in the wake of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) which left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Islamabad took the step after India called back its envoy Ajay Bisaria to New Delhi. After the Pulwama attack, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 and captured its pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman who was handed over to India on Friday. The foreign minister also thanked US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for his role in the current situation with India. "I did not want to say it but private diplomacy worked," he said. "US through private diplomacy played a role in de-escalating tensions between Pakistan and India," he said. Qureshi said foreign ministers of China, Russia, Turkey, the UAE and Jordan also played a significant role in reducing tension between the two countries. Qureshi said that a Pakistani delegation will visit New Delhi to hold dialogue over the Kartarpur Corridor.

Pakistan says it is sending High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood back to India

A day after<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-hit-the-target-at-balakot-wing-commander-abhinandan-will-fly-again-if-fit-iaf-chief-dhanoa-201031"> IAF chief's press conference</a>, Naval chief Sunil Lanba at an event said that the Indo-pacific region has witnessed multiple forms of terrorism in recent years and few countries in "this part of world have been spared by this cause".

India's Naval chief&nbsp;said Pakistan based terrorists are planning attacks via the high seas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Naval chief Sunil Lanba speaking at an event in Delhi said, "We also have reports of terrorists being trained to carry out attacks with varying modus operandi including through the medium of the sea."

Slamming Pakistan for its support to terror, Lanba said, "India faces a far more serious version of terrorism State-Sponsored Terrorism. You have all witnessed the horrific scale of the extremist attack in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir just 3 weeks ago. This violence was perpetrated by extremists aided and abetted by a state which seeks to destabilize India."

After the 26/11 attacks in 2008 India has increased its security along the coastline.&nbsp;

"Global nature which terrorism has acquired in recent times has further enhanced the scope of this threat," the navy chief said.

The government has been implementing the Coastal Security Scheme in phases since 2005. The objective of the scheme is to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of Police Force of the coastal States/UTs for patrolling and surveillance of coastal areas.&nbsp;

Under the scheme, 200 Coastal Police Stations are operational, and Coastal Police has been equipped with 204 boats, 30 jetties, 284 four-wheelers.

This is not the first time a warning has come of Pakistan-based terrorist planning an attack via the high seas.&nbsp;

In January, speaking in the Parliament, minister of state in the Home Ministry Hansraj Ahir had said, "available inputs indicate that the Pakistan based terrorist group continue to train their cadres for underwater strike capabilities in a bid to infiltrate them into India by sea/water ways."

Explaining further he said,&nbsp;Pakistan-based terrorist organization have exhorted its cadres for "samundari jihad" against India.&nbsp;

On February 14th, a JeM terrorist had rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus leading to the death of over 40 CRPF personnel. India later conducted air strikes inside Pakistan at Balakot on JeM hideouts which later led Pakistan Air Force to retaliate last week.

Meanwhile, Pakistan information minister Fawad Chaudhry denied Indian accusations that Pakistan was involved in the February 14th attack at Pulwama. He, however, added that his government had decried to crackdown on terrorists&nbsp;claiming that the decision to act was taken at a meeting of the National Security Committee before the suicide bombing in J&amp;K.

After the bombing and subsequent air strikes by India, the United States, Britain and France proposed last week that the UN Security Council blacklist the head of JeM, Masood Azhar.

In an interview with an US based news channel, Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that Azhar was in Pakistan and "really unwell".

Report later indicated that Pakistan may not resist the UNSC move this time. China had earlier blocked the vote thrice in 2009, 2016 and 2017.

A day after IAF chief's press conference, Naval chief Sunil Lanba at an event said that the Indo-pacific region has witnessed multiple forms of terrorism in recent years and few countries in "this part of world have been spared by this cause".

A day after IAF chief's press conference, Naval chief Sunil Lanba at an event said that the Indo-pacific region has witnessed multiple forms of terrorism in recent years and few countries in "this part of world have been spared by this cause". India's Naval chief said Pakistan based terrorists are planning attacks via the high seas. Naval chief Sunil Lanba speaking at an event in Delhi said, "We also have reports of terrorists being trained to carry out attacks with varying modus operandi including through the medium of the sea." Slamming Pakistan for its support to terror, Lanba said, "India faces a far more serious version of terrorism State-Sponsored Terrorism. You have all witnessed the horrific scale of the extremist attack in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir just 3 weeks ago. This violence was perpetrated by extremists aided and abetted by a state which seeks to destabilize India." After the 26/11 attacks in 2008 India has increased its security along the coastline. "Global nature which terrorism has acquired in recent times has further enhanced the scope of this threat," the navy chief said. The government has been implementing the Coastal Security Scheme in phases since 2005. The objective of the scheme is to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of Police Force of the coastal States/UTs for patrolling and surveillance of coastal areas. Under the scheme, 200 Coastal Police Stations are operational, and Coastal Police has been equipped with 204 boats, 30 jetties, 284 four-wheelers. This is not the first time a warning has come of Pakistan-based terrorist planning an attack via the high seas. In January, speaking in the Parliament, minister of state in the Home Ministry Hansraj Ahir had said, "available inputs indicate that the Pakistan based terrorist group continue to train their cadres for underwater strike capabilities in a bid to infiltrate them into India by sea/water ways." Explaining further he said, Pakistan-based terrorist organization have exhorted its cadres for "samundari jihad" against India. On February 14th, a JeM terrorist had rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus leading to the death of over 40 CRPF personnel. India later conducted air strikes inside Pakistan at Balakot on JeM hideouts which later led Pakistan Air Force to retaliate last week. Meanwhile, Pakistan information minister Fawad Chaudhry denied Indian accusations that Pakistan was involved in the February 14th attack at Pulwama. He, however, added that his government had decried to crackdown on terrorists claiming that the decision to act was taken at a meeting of the National Security Committee before the suicide bombing in J&K. After the bombing and subsequent air strikes by India, the United States, Britain and France proposed last week that the UN Security Council blacklist the head of JeM, Masood Azhar. In an interview with an US based news channel, Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that Azhar was in Pakistan and "really unwell". Report later indicated that Pakistan may not resist the UNSC move this time. China had earlier blocked the vote thrice in 2009, 2016 and 2017.

Terrorists being trained to carry out operations in various forms, including through medium of the sea: Naval chief Sunil Lanba

Amid Pakistan's flip-flop over reports of death of&nbsp; <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-alive-says-pakistan-media-200960">Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM)</a> chief Masood Azhar,50, sources have told WION that Masood Azhar was never hospitalised although his dialysis was done twice a week but his condition has deteriorated since January.

Pakistan media quoting "unnamed sources" had said that the JeM chief was alive, although there was no official confirmation.&nbsp;

During an interview during the weekend, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had told a US news channel that the JeM chief was in the country and was &nbsp;"very unwell" but added that government can act against him only if India presents "solid" and "inalienable" evidence that can stand in a court of law.

"He is in Pakistan, according to my information. He is unwell to the extent that he can't leave his house, because he's really unwell," Qureshi said.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R0XO0hOlYQ4" width="560"></iframe>

India blames Azhar for the 2001 Parliament attack including the Pulwama terror strike on February 14th. He was released by the NDA government in 1999 during exchange of hostages in the &nbsp;hijacked Indian Airlines plane IC-814 in Khandhar.

Pakistan's senior security official had earlier said it was suspected that Azhar was afflicted with renal failure and was under regular dialysis at an army hospital in Rawalpindi in Pakistan

However, sources close to Azhar's family have told WION that the JeM chief is "fine and alive"&nbsp;and is likely to release a "message" very soon.

Last week, US, the UK and France had moved a fresh proposal in the UN Security Council to designate Azhar as a global terrorist. The proposal moved earlier was vetoed by China.

The Security Council Sanctions Committee will have 10 working days to consider the fresh proposal submitted by the three permanent members. It is the third attempt by UNSC members to impose sanctions on Azhar.

China has blocked the move twice - in 2016 and 2017. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
JeM had claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack in Pulwama that killed over 40 CRPF&nbsp;personnel. 
&nbsp;

Amid Pakistan's flip-flop over reports of death of Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) chief Masood Azhar,50, sources have told WION that Masood Azhar was never hospitalised although his dialysis was done twice a week but his condition has deteriorated since January.

Amid Pakistan's flip-flop over reports of death of Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) chief Masood Azhar,50, sources have told WION that Masood Azhar was never hospitalised although his dialysis was done twice a week but his condition has deteriorated since January. Pakistan media quoting "unnamed sources" had said that the JeM chief was alive, although there was no official confirmation. During an interview during the weekend, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had told a US news channel that the JeM chief was in the country and was "very unwell" but added that government can act against him only if India presents "solid" and "inalienable" evidence that can stand in a court of law. "He is in Pakistan, according to my information. He is unwell to the extent that he can't leave his house, because he's really unwell," Qureshi said. India blames Azhar for the 2001 Parliament attack including the Pulwama terror strike on February 14th. He was released by the NDA government in 1999 during exchange of hostages in the hijacked Indian Airlines plane IC-814 in Khandhar. Pakistan's senior security official had earlier said it was suspected that Azhar was afflicted with renal failure and was under regular dialysis at an army hospital in Rawalpindi in Pakistan However, sources close to Azhar's family have told WION that the JeM chief is "fine and alive" and is likely to release a "message" very soon. Last week, US, the UK and France had moved a fresh proposal in the UN Security Council to designate Azhar as a global terrorist. The proposal moved earlier was vetoed by China. The Security Council Sanctions Committee will have 10 working days to consider the fresh proposal submitted by the three permanent members. It is the third attempt by UNSC members to impose sanctions on Azhar. China has blocked the move twice - in 2016 and 2017. JeM had claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack in Pulwama that killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

Amid conflicting reports, sources say Masood Azhar never hospitalised, plans to release message soon

India has highlighted to Russia how a MiG-21 brought down a Pakistani F-16 in its recent skirmish with Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Mig-21 is a Russian-made plane first produced in 1959. The F-16 is American-made and was first produced in 1978.&nbsp;

In an interview to the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Indian Ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma said, &nbsp;"India was forced to defend its interests, including through the use of MiG-21 fighter aircraft supplied by Russia, which brought down the Pakistani F-16."

In response to India's counter-terrorism operation in Pakistan on Tuesday, Islamabad launched a large-scale air force raid into Indian airspace. The Pakistani operation was aimed at Indian military installations.

In the skirmish that followed, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16. Abhinandan's MiG-21 Bison was later shot down and he was captured.&nbsp;

The MiG-21 Bison is a single engine, single-seater, multi-role fighter aircraft of Russian origin and forms the backbone of the Indian Air Force.

India is the largest operator of the MiG-21, which also played an important role in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

Ambassador Varma also clarified that there is no Russian offer to mediate between India and Pakistan and even if Moscow proposes one, New Delhi will not accept it.

"I want to emphasise that we did not receive a formal offer of mediation. And even we do, we will not accept it. So far, no country has offered to mediate in resolving the conflict," Varma said.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Office said Friday, after a call by Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, that Moscow had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan.

Varma, in the interview, thanked Moscow for its support to a proposal last week to list Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief as an international terrorist under the United Nations Security Council 1267 committee.

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to PM Modi on Thursday expressing his deep condolences on the Pulwama terror attack and conveying his solidarity with New Delhi in its fight against terrorism.

President Putin also invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. This is for the second time this year, PM Modi and President Putin spoke to each other.

India has highlighted to Russia how a MiG-21 brought down a Pakistani F-16 in its recent skirmish with Pakistan. The Mig-21 is a Russian-made plane first produced in 1959.

India has highlighted to Russia how a MiG-21 brought down a Pakistani F-16 in its recent skirmish with Pakistan. The Mig-21 is a Russian-made plane first produced in 1959. The F-16 is American-made and was first produced in 1978. In an interview to the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Indian Ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "India was forced to defend its interests, including through the use of MiG-21 fighter aircraft supplied by Russia, which brought down the Pakistani F-16." In response to India's counter-terrorism operation in Pakistan on Tuesday, Islamabad launched a large-scale air force raid into Indian airspace. The Pakistani operation was aimed at Indian military installations. In the skirmish that followed, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16. Abhinandan's MiG-21 Bison was later shot down and he was captured. The MiG-21 Bison is a single engine, single-seater, multi-role fighter aircraft of Russian origin and forms the backbone of the Indian Air Force. India is the largest operator of the MiG-21, which also played an important role in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Ambassador Varma also clarified that there is no Russian offer to mediate between India and Pakistan and even if Moscow proposes one, New Delhi will not accept it. "I want to emphasise that we did not receive a formal offer of mediation. And even we do, we will not accept it. So far, no country has offered to mediate in resolving the conflict," Varma said. Pakistan's Foreign Office said Friday, after a call by Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, that Moscow had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan. Varma, in the interview, thanked Moscow for its support to a proposal last week to list Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief as an international terrorist under the United Nations Security Council 1267 committee. Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to PM Modi on Thursday expressing his deep condolences on the Pulwama terror attack and conveying his solidarity with New Delhi in its fight against terrorism. President Putin also invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. This is for the second time this year, PM Modi and President Putin spoke to each other.

Russia has not offered to mediate between India & Pakistan: Indian envoy to Russia

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir will visit Pakistan on Saturday, carrying a ‘special message’ from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, reported Samaa TV.

Adel will hold discussions with his Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi on the escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

The Saudi Foreign Minister was earlier expected to visit Pakistan on Thursday, but the visit was delayed due to unexplained reasons.

Notably, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman recently visited both India and Pakistan.

In his bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, MBS had described terrorism as a ‘common concern’.&nbsp;

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir will visit Pakistan on Saturday, carrying a ‘special message’ from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, reported Samaa TV.

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir will visit Pakistan on Saturday, carrying a ‘special message’ from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, reported Samaa TV. Adel will hold discussions with his Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi on the escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. The Saudi Foreign Minister was earlier expected to visit Pakistan on Thursday, but the visit was delayed due to unexplained reasons. Notably, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman recently visited both India and Pakistan. In his bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, MBS had described terrorism as a ‘common concern’.

Carrying 'special message', Saudi foreign minister to visit Pakistan today

Jaish-e-Mohammad didn't claim responsibility for Pulwama attack: Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence.&nbsp;

Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pakistan Foreign Minister&nbsp;Shah Mehmood Qureshi&nbsp;said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet."

"Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it," he added.

Qureshi had written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi.

In in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan.

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is participating in the IOC meeting. This is the first time India has been invited as a guest of honour at the OIC.

Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence. Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet.

Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence. Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet." "Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it," he added. Qureshi had written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi. In in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan. Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is participating in the IOC meeting. This is the first time India has been invited as a guest of honour at the OIC.

Pakistan boycotts Islamic Cooperation meet over India's presence 

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday said that he would not be&nbsp;attending a meeting of foreign ministers from the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-attends-organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-meet-as-guest-of-honour-pakistan-threatens-to-boycott-due-to-delhis-presence-200426">Organisation of Islamic Cooperation </a>in Abu Dhabi as his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj&nbsp;had been invited to the same event.

"I will not go to the council of foreign ministers," Qureshi was quoted as saying in the parliament, adding that lower-ranking officials would attend to represent Pakistan's interests.

Indian pilot release 
Qureshi said downed Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman will be handed over to Indian authorities later on Friday in an effort to de-escalate a crisis between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

"As a gesture of peace and to de-escalate matters, the Indian pilot who is under arrest with us will be released today in the afternoon at the Wagah border," Qureshi told parliament, referring to the border crossing near Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore.

UN, Russia mediation&nbsp;

Qureshi also appealed to United Nations General Secretary António Guterres and Russia to play a mediation role to de-escalate tensions in South Asia, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Qureshi is comment comes amid growing tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack and subsequent military intervention from both the sides.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday said that he would not be attending a meeting of foreign ministers from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Abu Dhabi as his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj had been invited to the same event.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday said that he would not be attending a meeting of foreign ministers from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Abu Dhabi as his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj had been invited to the same event. "I will not go to the council of foreign ministers," Qureshi was quoted as saying in the parliament, adding that lower-ranking officials would attend to represent Pakistan's interests. Indian pilot release Qureshi said downed Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman will be handed over to Indian authorities later on Friday in an effort to de-escalate a crisis between the nuclear-armed neighbours. "As a gesture of peace and to de-escalate matters, the Indian pilot who is under arrest with us will be released today in the afternoon at the Wagah border," Qureshi told parliament, referring to the border crossing near Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore. UN, Russia mediation Qureshi also appealed to United Nations General Secretary António Guterres and Russia to play a mediation role to de-escalate tensions in South Asia, news agency ANI reported. Qureshi is comment comes amid growing tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack and subsequent military intervention from both the sides.

Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi boycotts OIC over Indian presence 

After India asked for immediate <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-standoff-us-supports-indias-airstrikes-on-jem-terror-camp-and-other-developments-200164">release of the pilot from Pakistan</a>, a media report said &nbsp;foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi was willing to consider returning the Indian pilot it it lead to "de-escalation".

A government source had said earlier that India won't allow a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wont-allow-a-kandahar-this-time-pakistan-must-immediately-send-our-pilot-back-says-india-200264">"Kandahar-like" situation</a> this time. &nbsp;"If they think they will hold us hostage with our captured defence personnel, this won't happen," the sources added.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Office (FO) said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot was safe and sound. "The armed forces rescued him from the mob that went after him after his plane crashed in Kashmir," the FO said.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7FerNiFKzs8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

India on Wednesday had summoned the acting high commissioner of Pakistan&nbsp;Syed Haider Shah&nbsp; and demanded immediate and safe return of the IAF pilot who was detained by Pakistan following an aerial engagement by Air forces of the two countries.

"It has also been made clear to Pakistan that no harm should be caused to the Indian defence personnel, the external affairs ministry said, adding that it had conveyed "strong objection" to the Pakistan deputy high commissioner at the "vulgar display" of an injured personnel in violation of all norms of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Convention.&nbsp;

As tensions between the two nations continued to rise, US President Donald Trump sought to cool nerves asserting that &nbsp;"reasonably attractive" news was set to come from Pakistan and India.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters in Hanoi, Vietnam after the second summit with North Korean leader Kim, Trump said, "We have reasonably attractive news from Pakistan and India. They have been going at it we have been involved in trying to help them stop. And we have some reasonably decent news."

He added, "I think, hopefully that will be coming to an end. It's being going for a long time. Decades and decades. There is a lot of dislike unfortunately." 
&nbsp;

After India asked for immediate release of the pilot from Pakistan, a media report said foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi was willing to consider returning the Indian pilot it it lead to "de-escalation".

After India asked for immediate release of the pilot from Pakistan, a media report said foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi was willing to consider returning the Indian pilot it it lead to "de-escalation". A government source had said earlier that India won't allow a "Kandahar-like" situation this time. "If they think they will hold us hostage with our captured defence personnel, this won't happen," the sources added. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Office (FO) said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot was safe and sound. "The armed forces rescued him from the mob that went after him after his plane crashed in Kashmir," the FO said. India on Wednesday had summoned the acting high commissioner of Pakistan Syed Haider Shah and demanded immediate and safe return of the IAF pilot who was detained by Pakistan following an aerial engagement by Air forces of the two countries. "It has also been made clear to Pakistan that no harm should be caused to the Indian defence personnel, the external affairs ministry said, adding that it had conveyed "strong objection" to the Pakistan deputy high commissioner at the "vulgar display" of an injured personnel in violation of all norms of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Convention. As tensions between the two nations continued to rise, US President Donald Trump sought to cool nerves asserting that "reasonably attractive" news was set to come from Pakistan and India. Speaking to reporters in Hanoi, Vietnam after the second summit with North Korean leader Kim, Trump said, "We have reasonably attractive news from Pakistan and India. They have been going at it we have been involved in trying to help them stop. And we have some reasonably decent news." He added, "I think, hopefully that will be coming to an end. It's being going for a long time. Decades and decades. There is a lot of dislike unfortunately."

After India refuses to negotiate pilot's return, Pak foreign minister Qureshi says ready to send him back if it leads to 'de-escalation'

Stunned by the air strikes, Pakistan on Tuesday said it will give an “appropriate reply” to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-carries-out-air-strikes-in-pakistan-199776">Indian action</a>, which it described as “grave aggression”.

Soon after Indian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-struck-the-biggest-camp-of-jem-in-balakot-says-foreign-secretary-vijay-gokhale-199787">Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale</a> made the official announcement about the air strike, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Prime Minister Imran Khan has called a meeting to discuss the issue.

“It is grave aggression by India. We had told the world community that such a step could be taken by India,” he told state-owned Pakistan Television.

He said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-f16s-were-scrambled-to-retaliate-but-turned-back-sources-199782">Pakistan reserves the right</a> to give a “proper reply” and it will give it.

Earlier Gokhale said India had hit the largest Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) camp in Balakot in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, eliminating a “large number” of terrorists, including top commanders.

The terror camp in a thick forest area atop a hill was led by Ustad Gauri, brother-in-law of JeM chief Masood Azhar, Gokhale said, making a statement before the media, hours after the air strikes using Mirage 2000 were carried out.

He said the “pre-emptive” strike by India had become absolutely necessary as there was credible information that JeM, which recently carried out a terror attack in Pulwama, was planning further attacks in this country.

A large number of Jaish terrorists, including top commanders, trainers and those terrorists who were to be the ‘fidayeen’ (suicide attackers) were eliminated in the “non-military” air strike, the Foreign Secretary said.

Stunned by the air strikes, Pakistan on Tuesday said it will give an “appropriate reply” to the Indian action, which it described as “grave aggression”. Soon after Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale made the official announcement about the air strike, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Prime Minister Imran Khan has called a meeting to discuss the issue.

Stunned by the air strikes, Pakistan on Tuesday said it will give an “appropriate reply” to the Indian action, which it described as “grave aggression”. Soon after Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale made the official announcement about the air strike, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Prime Minister Imran Khan has called a meeting to discuss the issue. “It is grave aggression by India. We had told the world community that such a step could be taken by India,” he told state-owned Pakistan Television. He said Pakistan reserves the right to give a “proper reply” and it will give it. Earlier Gokhale said India had hit the largest Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) camp in Balakot in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, eliminating a “large number” of terrorists, including top commanders. The terror camp in a thick forest area atop a hill was led by Ustad Gauri, brother-in-law of JeM chief Masood Azhar, Gokhale said, making a statement before the media, hours after the air strikes using Mirage 2000 were carried out. He said the “pre-emptive” strike by India had become absolutely necessary as there was credible information that JeM, which recently carried out a terror attack in Pulwama, was planning further attacks in this country. A large number of Jaish terrorists, including top commanders, trainers and those terrorists who were to be the ‘fidayeen’ (suicide attackers) were eliminated in the “non-military” air strike, the Foreign Secretary said.

India action 'grave aggression,' will give befitting reply: Pakistan