<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-newly-appointed-foreign-secretary-sohail-mahmood-assumes-office-211195">Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood</a> arrived in New Delhi&nbsp;on a three-day private visit on Tuesday night, diplomatic sources said. On Wednesday, he offered Eid prayers at historic Jama Masjid in New Delhi.

Mahmood was Pakistan's High Commissioner to India before he assumed charge of the top post in mid-April.

It is not immediately known whether he would meet any Indian officials or leaders during his stay here. Mahmood's children were studying here.

He is scheduled to return to Pakistan on Friday along with his family, sources said.

Before returning to Pakistan on April 14, Mahmood had told PTI that dialogue between India and Pakistan was the only option to understand mutual concerns and ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region.

He said Pakistan was hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls.

"Sustained engagement and structured dialogue would enable the two countries to understand mutual concerns and differences, resolve outstanding disputes and build the edifice of durable peace, security and prosperity in the region," he said.

Tensions between the two countries worsened after the Pulwama terror attack and both the nations were almost on the brink of war after India's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26 and Pakistan carried out a counter-offensive the next day.

Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to Modi over the 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.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood arrived in New Delhi on a three-day private visit on Tuesday night, diplomatic sources said. On Wednesday, he offered Eid prayers at historic Jama Masjid in New Delhi.

Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood arrived in New Delhi on a three-day private visit on Tuesday night, diplomatic sources said. On Wednesday, he offered Eid prayers at historic Jama Masjid in New Delhi. Mahmood was Pakistan's High Commissioner to India before he assumed charge of the top post in mid-April. It is not immediately known whether he would meet any Indian officials or leaders during his stay here. Mahmood's children were studying here. He is scheduled to return to Pakistan on Friday along with his family, sources said. Before returning to Pakistan on April 14, Mahmood had told PTI that dialogue between India and Pakistan was the only option to understand mutual concerns and ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region. He said Pakistan was hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls. "Sustained engagement and structured dialogue would enable the two countries to understand mutual concerns and differences, resolve outstanding disputes and build the edifice of durable peace, security and prosperity in the region," he said. Tensions between the two countries worsened after the Pulwama terror attack and both the nations were almost on the brink of war after India's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26 and Pakistan carried out a counter-offensive the next day. Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to Modi over the 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.

Pakistan's Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood offers Eid prayers at Jama Masjid

Pakistan's seasoned diplomat Sohail Mahmood on Wednesday took over as the country's new foreign secretary.

Before being appointed as the foreign secretary, Mahmood served as Pakistan's High Commissioner to India.

"Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood assumed charge and called on the Foreign Minister today," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said.

Mahmood replaced Tehmina Janjua, who retired on April 16 after serving in the position for two years.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi congratulated the foreign secretary on assuming charge.

During the meeting, the two discussed the different contours of foreign policy.

Mahmood was appointed as high commissioner to India in August 2017. He was serving as ambassador to Turkey when sent to India.&nbsp;

He previously also served at Washington and New York in addition to another posting in his long career.

In an interview to PTI before leaving for Islamabad this week, Mahmood said Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security.

Mahmood also said there was a need for an "objective" narrative about Pakistan in India which could facilitate peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly ties.

The relations between India and Pakistan remained tense since 2016. Their ties further nose-dived following a string of cross-border terror attacks in 2016 and India's subsequent surgical strikes.

Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1.&nbsp;

Pakistan's seasoned diplomat Sohail Mahmood on Wednesday took over as the country's new foreign secretary. Before being appointed as the foreign secretary, Mahmood served as Pakistan's High Commissioner to India.

Pakistan's seasoned diplomat Sohail Mahmood on Wednesday took over as the country's new foreign secretary. Before being appointed as the foreign secretary, Mahmood served as Pakistan's High Commissioner to India. "Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood assumed charge and called on the Foreign Minister today," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said. Mahmood replaced Tehmina Janjua, who retired on April 16 after serving in the position for two years. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi congratulated the foreign secretary on assuming charge. During the meeting, the two discussed the different contours of foreign policy. Mahmood was appointed as high commissioner to India in August 2017. He was serving as ambassador to Turkey when sent to India. He previously also served at Washington and New York in addition to another posting in his long career. In an interview to PTI before leaving for Islamabad this week, Mahmood said Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security. Mahmood also said there was a need for an "objective" narrative about Pakistan in India which could facilitate peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly ties. The relations between India and Pakistan remained tense since 2016. Their ties further nose-dived following a string of cross-border terror attacks in 2016 and India's subsequent surgical strikes. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1.

Pakistan's newly appointed foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood assumes office

Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security,&nbsp;Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood has said.

In an interview to PTI, Mahmood, who has been appointed Pakistan's next Foreign Secretary, also said there was a need for an "objective" narrative about Pakistan in India which could facilitate peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly ties.

"We hope for re-engagement after the elections in India. Diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable," he said.

The comments came nearly six weeks after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/journalists-balakot-visit-crude-attempt-by-pak-to-influence-indian-polls-says-ex-us-armyman-209765"> India's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot </a>and Pakistan's subsequent counter-offensive. The flare-up triggered fears of war and countries like the US and China played a role in de-escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Mahmood said diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable to improve ties between the two neighbours and that engagement was the only option to understand mutual concerns and ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region.

"Sustained engagement and structured dialogue would enable the two countries to understand mutual concerns and differences, resolve outstanding disputes and build the edifice of durable peace, security and prosperity in the region," Mahmood said.

Mahmood left for Islamabad on Sunday after nearly a 19-month long tenure as Pakistan's envoy to India. He is expected to take up his new assignment on Tuesday. 
He also said that there was a need for a review of the narrative on Pakistan in India.

"There is also a need to review the narrative about Pakistan in India. A narrative is needed that captures the reality in Pakistan objectively and more fully. A narrative that also helps recognise opportunities for peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly relations," he said.

"We must strive for a stable peace, equal security and shared prosperity for ourselves and the region," the envoy added.

In signs of easing tensions, Pakistan around two weeks back announced that it was releasing 360 Indian prisoners, mostly fishermen as a "goodwill gesture.&nbsp;

The initiative was followed by Pakistan High Commission here granting visas to 2,200 Sikh pilgrims from India to facilitate their participation in the annual Baisakhi celebrations in Pakistan.

Over two weeks after the Balakot strike, India and Pakistan held talks to finalise the modalities for setting up a corridor linking the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Gurdaspur district in Punjab.

Asked about the Kartarpur corridor project, the Pakistani High Commissioner said Islamabad was committed to completing the physical infrastructure on its side.

"The government of Pakistan is proceeding in full measures to complete the physical infrastructure on its side and it is hopeful that the modalities will be mutually agreed between the two sides in good time before November 2019," he said.

In a major initiative last November, both India and Pakistan agreed to set up the Kartarpur corridor to link the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib -- the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev -- to Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur.

Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine.

In another significant move in May last year, India and Pakistan agreed to adhere to the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control after a spate of cross-border firings between the two sides along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.

The relations between India and Pakistan remained tense since 2016. Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had travelled to Delhi to attend Modi's oath taking ceremony and the Indian premier had in December 2015 made a stopover in Lahore to greet his counterpart on his birthday.

However, the ties nose-dived following a string of cross-border terror attacks in 2016 and India's subsequent surgical strikes.

After the terror attack on Pathankot airbase in January 2016, India had announced that it will not engage in talks with Islamabad until it stops cross-border terrorism.

The sentencing of alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav to death by a military court in April 2017 further deteriorated bilateral ties.

Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security, Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood has said.

Pakistan is hoping for "re-engagement" with India after the Lok Sabha polls as structured dialogue will help the two countries understand mutual concerns, resolve disputes and build the edifice of durable peace and security, Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood has said. In an interview to PTI, Mahmood, who has been appointed Pakistan's next Foreign Secretary, also said there was a need for an "objective" narrative about Pakistan in India which could facilitate peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly ties. "We hope for re-engagement after the elections in India. Diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable," he said. The comments came nearly six weeks after India's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot and Pakistan's subsequent counter-offensive. The flare-up triggered fears of war and countries like the US and China played a role in de-escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Mahmood said diplomacy and dialogue are indispensable to improve ties between the two neighbours and that engagement was the only option to understand mutual concerns and ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region. "Sustained engagement and structured dialogue would enable the two countries to understand mutual concerns and differences, resolve outstanding disputes and build the edifice of durable peace, security and prosperity in the region," Mahmood said. Mahmood left for Islamabad on Sunday after nearly a 19-month long tenure as Pakistan's envoy to India. He is expected to take up his new assignment on Tuesday. He also said that there was a need for a review of the narrative on Pakistan in India. "There is also a need to review the narrative about Pakistan in India. A narrative is needed that captures the reality in Pakistan objectively and more fully. A narrative that also helps recognise opportunities for peaceful, cooperative and good neighbourly relations," he said. "We must strive for a stable peace, equal security and shared prosperity for ourselves and the region," the envoy added. In signs of easing tensions, Pakistan around two weeks back announced that it was releasing 360 Indian prisoners, mostly fishermen as a "goodwill gesture. The initiative was followed by Pakistan High Commission here granting visas to 2,200 Sikh pilgrims from India to facilitate their participation in the annual Baisakhi celebrations in Pakistan. Over two weeks after the Balakot strike, India and Pakistan held talks to finalise the modalities for setting up a corridor linking the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Asked about the Kartarpur corridor project, the Pakistani High Commissioner said Islamabad was committed to completing the physical infrastructure on its side. "The government of Pakistan is proceeding in full measures to complete the physical infrastructure on its side and it is hopeful that the modalities will be mutually agreed between the two sides in good time before November 2019," he said. In a major initiative last November, both India and Pakistan agreed to set up the Kartarpur corridor to link the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib -- the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev -- to Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur. Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine. In another significant move in May last year, India and Pakistan agreed to adhere to the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control after a spate of cross-border firings between the two sides along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. The relations between India and Pakistan remained tense since 2016. Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had travelled to Delhi to attend Modi's oath taking ceremony and the Indian premier had in December 2015 made a stopover in Lahore to greet his counterpart on his birthday. However, the ties nose-dived following a string of cross-border terror attacks in 2016 and India's subsequent surgical strikes. After the terror attack on Pathankot airbase in January 2016, India had announced that it will not engage in talks with Islamabad until it stops cross-border terrorism. The sentencing of alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav to death by a military court in April 2017 further deteriorated bilateral ties.

Need for an objective narrative about Pakistan in India: Sohail Mahmood

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood has been named as the country's new Foreign Secretary, reported Geo News on Sunday.

Speaking to the media in Multan, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi announced that Sohail Mahmood has been appointed foreign secretary after consultation with the prime minister Imran Khan.

Mahmood will replace Tehmina Janjua, who is retiring on April 16 after serving in the position for two years.

Janjua is the first women Foreign Secretary of Pakistan.

Mahmood joined the Pakistani Foreign Service in October of 1985. He has served as Pakistan's envoy to Thailand, Turkey and other postings as a diplomat include United Nations, Washington.

He was appointed as Pakistan's envoy to India in August of 2017 replacing Abdul Basit.&nbsp;

His tenure will be remembered for the go-ahead given for Kartarpur corridor project by both New Delhi and Islamabad. Calling the Kartarpur Initiative historic he said it, "would be instrumental in further facilitating and fortifying people-to-people bonds."&nbsp;

During the India Pakistan tensions in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack on February 14, he was called back to Islamabad for consultations.&nbsp;

Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria in a tweet congratulated Sohail Mahmood and said he will infuse greater positivity &amp; newer ideas to India-Pak ties.

In a tweet, he said, "Congratulations to ace diplomat Sohail Mahmood on his appointment as Pak Foreign Secretary! The India innings will no doubt equip him to infuse greater positivity, newer ideas &nbsp;to India-Pak ties."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Congratulations to ace diplomat Sohail Mahmood on his appointment as Pak Foreign Secretary! The India innings will no doubt equip him to infuse greater positivity, newer ideas to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>-Pak ties!<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainPakistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiainPakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/cevmtwt1dJ">https://t.co/cevmtwt1dJ</a>
— Ajay Bisaria (@Ajaybis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ajaybis/status/1112379786075230209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The term of the foreign secretary of Pakistan is 3 years.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood has been named as the country's new Foreign Secretary, reported Geo News on Sunday. Speaking to the media in Multan, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi announced that Sohail Mahmood has been appointed foreign secretary after consultation with the prime minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood has been named as the country's new Foreign Secretary, reported Geo News on Sunday. Speaking to the media in Multan, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi announced that Sohail Mahmood has been appointed foreign secretary after consultation with the prime minister Imran Khan. Mahmood will replace Tehmina Janjua, who is retiring on April 16 after serving in the position for two years. Janjua is the first women Foreign Secretary of Pakistan. Mahmood joined the Pakistani Foreign Service in October of 1985. He has served as Pakistan's envoy to Thailand, Turkey and other postings as a diplomat include United Nations, Washington. He was appointed as Pakistan's envoy to India in August of 2017 replacing Abdul Basit. His tenure will be remembered for the go-ahead given for Kartarpur corridor project by both New Delhi and Islamabad. Calling the Kartarpur Initiative historic he said it, "would be instrumental in further facilitating and fortifying people-to-people bonds." During the India Pakistan tensions in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack on February 14, he was called back to Islamabad for consultations. Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria in a tweet congratulated Sohail Mahmood and said he will infuse greater positivity & newer ideas to India-Pak ties. In a tweet, he said, "Congratulations to ace diplomat Sohail Mahmood on his appointment as Pak Foreign Secretary! The India innings will no doubt equip him to infuse greater positivity, newer ideas to India-Pak ties." Congratulations to ace diplomat Sohail Mahmood on his appointment as Pak Foreign Secretary! The India innings will no doubt equip him to infuse greater positivity, newer ideas to #India-Pak ties!@IndiainPakistan https://t.co/cevmtwt1dJ — Ajay Bisaria (@Ajaybis) March 31, 2019 × The term of the foreign secretary of Pakistan is 3 years.

High Commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood appointed as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary

High Commissioner to India, Appoints Sohail Mahmood as Pak's Foreign Secretary

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood arrived in New Delhi on Saturday and is expected to resume office soon.

Mahmood was recalled to Islamabad on February 18 for consultations in the wake of escalating tension between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.

A day before leaving Islamabad, Mahmood reportedly met Prime Minister Imran Khan to seek advice on the current situation, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office.

Meanwhile, India High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria returned to Islamabad after completion of consultations in India.

Bisaria is expected to articulate India's expectations from Pakistan with emphasis and more directly, according to sources.

The Indian High Commissioner will also engage on urgent issues not only with Pakistan but with diplomats of other countries in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood arrived in New Delhi on Saturday and is expected to resume office soon. Mahmood was recalled to Islamabad on February 18 for consultations in the wake of escalating tension between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood arrived in New Delhi on Saturday and is expected to resume office soon. Mahmood was recalled to Islamabad on February 18 for consultations in the wake of escalating tension between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. A day before leaving Islamabad, Mahmood reportedly met Prime Minister Imran Khan to seek advice on the current situation, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office. Meanwhile, India High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria returned to Islamabad after completion of consultations in India. Bisaria is expected to articulate India's expectations from Pakistan with emphasis and more directly, according to sources. The Indian High Commissioner will also engage on urgent issues not only with Pakistan but with diplomats of other countries in Islamabad.

Pak High Commissioner arrives in New Delhi

<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

Pakistan on Tuesday informed India that its delegation will visit New Delhi on March 14 to discuss a draft agreement on the Kartarpur corridor, a positive development that could help ease tensions between the two neighbours.

Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal, who is also the Director General South Asia &amp; SAARC, invited India's acting High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia at the ministry of foreign affairs to convey the decision, according to a statement.

"The Pakistan delegation will visit New Delhi on 14 March 2019, followed by the return visit of the Indian delegation to Islamabad on 28 March 2019, to discuss the draft Agreement on Kartarpur Corridor," the statement said.

Faisal informed the Indian envoy that Pakistan's High Commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood, will be returning to New Delhi after the completion of consultations in Islamabad.

He also conveyed that Pakistan was committed to continue weekly contact at the Military Operations Directorates level.

The positive development came as Pakistan launched a crackdown against banned outfits including Jaish-e-Mohammed.

JeM chief Masood Azhar's son Hammad Azhar and brother Mufti Abdur Rauf were among 44 members of the banned militant outfits detained by authorities in Pakistan on Tuesday, amid mounting pressure from the global community on Islamabad to rein in the terror groups operating on its soil.

India and Pakistan have agreed to open up a special border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district.

Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, the first Gurdwara, was established by Guru Nanak Dev in 1522, where he is said to have died.

The corridor will facilitate the visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur.

Pakistan on Tuesday informed India that its delegation will visit New Delhi on March 14 to discuss a draft agreement on the Kartarpur corridor, a positive development that could help ease tensions between the two neighbours.

Pakistan on Tuesday informed India that its delegation will visit New Delhi on March 14 to discuss a draft agreement on the Kartarpur corridor, a positive development that could help ease tensions between the two neighbours. Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal, who is also the Director General South Asia & SAARC, invited India's acting High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia at the ministry of foreign affairs to convey the decision, according to a statement. "The Pakistan delegation will visit New Delhi on 14 March 2019, followed by the return visit of the Indian delegation to Islamabad on 28 March 2019, to discuss the draft Agreement on Kartarpur Corridor," the statement said. Faisal informed the Indian envoy that Pakistan's High Commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood, will be returning to New Delhi after the completion of consultations in Islamabad. He also conveyed that Pakistan was committed to continue weekly contact at the Military Operations Directorates level. The positive development came as Pakistan launched a crackdown against banned outfits including Jaish-e-Mohammed. JeM chief Masood Azhar's son Hammad Azhar and brother Mufti Abdur Rauf were among 44 members of the banned militant outfits detained by authorities in Pakistan on Tuesday, amid mounting pressure from the global community on Islamabad to rein in the terror groups operating on its soil. India and Pakistan have agreed to open up a special border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district. Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, the first Gurdwara, was established by Guru Nanak Dev in 1522, where he is said to have died. The corridor will facilitate the visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur.

Pakistan team to visit India on March 14 to discuss Kartarpur draft agreement

Pakistan has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-calls-up-kashmiri-separatist-leader-geelani-194700">no intention to interfere in India's internal matters</a>&nbsp;and New Delhi should not make an issue out of his telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said.

India had on Wednesday summoned Pakistani envoy Sohail Mahmood and categorically told him that Qureshi's telephonic conversation was a "brazen attempt" to subvert India's unity and violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Mahmood was "cautioned" by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale that persistence of such behaviour will have "implications".

Talking to the media in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said that Pakistan has no intention to interfere in the internal matters of India, but New Delhi should also stop blaming Islamabad for its problems, Dawn news reported.

The Foreign Minister acknowledged that he spoke with Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz and India should not make it an issue.

"We want to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue but India is making undue hue and cry," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

"Issues are emerging in India but Pakistan has no role in that," he said.

Qureshi said that he would highlight Pakistan's viewpoint on Kashmir issue at an event in the House of Common in London this week.

The Foreign Minister said that election in India was an internal matter and Islamabad would try to hold talks with the new government if it wanted to work with Pakistan.

India has made it clear to Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go together.

Pakistan's relations with many countries have improved because of successful diplomacy of the incumbent government, he claimed.

He said Saudi crown prince would visit Pakistan this month. "New agreements will be signed during his visit," Qureshi said.

The Pakistan Foreign Office said Tuesday that Qureshi spoke with the Hurriyat leader and discussed with him efforts of Pakistan government to highlight the Kashmir issue.

In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir "has been, is and shall remain the integral part of India and that Pakistan has no locus stand&nbsp;in any matters related to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, has been made clear again to the High Commissioner of Pakistan."&nbsp;

According to the government sources in New Delhi, India was particularly anguished over Pakistan's statement on Tuesday, sharing details of the conversation that centred around the Kashmir issue.

Though Pakistani leaders may have telephoned separatists in Kashmir in the past but perhaps, it was the first time in recent years that Islamabad put out a statement highlighting the talking points which New Delhi felt was a clear case of violation of the red lines, the sources said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's major political parties issued a joint declaration at the end of All Parties Kashmir Conference on Saturday and said that peace in the region was not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue.

The declaration called on the Pakistan government to prepare an effective foreign policy to resolve the long-standing issue of Kashmir. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of his telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said.

Pakistan has no intention to interfere in India's internal matters and New Delhi should not make an issue out of his telephonic conversation with Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said. India had on Wednesday summoned Pakistani envoy Sohail Mahmood and categorically told him that Qureshi's telephonic conversation was a "brazen attempt" to subvert India's unity and violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Mahmood was "cautioned" by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale that persistence of such behaviour will have "implications". Talking to the media in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said that Pakistan has no intention to interfere in the internal matters of India, but New Delhi should also stop blaming Islamabad for its problems, Dawn news reported. The Foreign Minister acknowledged that he spoke with Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz and India should not make it an issue. "We want to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue but India is making undue hue and cry," Qureshi was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. "Issues are emerging in India but Pakistan has no role in that," he said. Qureshi said that he would highlight Pakistan's viewpoint on Kashmir issue at an event in the House of Common in London this week. The Foreign Minister said that election in India was an internal matter and Islamabad would try to hold talks with the new government if it wanted to work with Pakistan. India has made it clear to Pakistan that talks and terrorism cannot go together. Pakistan's relations with many countries have improved because of successful diplomacy of the incumbent government, he claimed. He said Saudi crown prince would visit Pakistan this month. "New agreements will be signed during his visit," Qureshi said. The Pakistan Foreign Office said Tuesday that Qureshi spoke with the Hurriyat leader and discussed with him efforts of Pakistan government to highlight the Kashmir issue. In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir "has been, is and shall remain the integral part of India and that Pakistan has no locus stand in any matters related to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, has been made clear again to the High Commissioner of Pakistan." According to the government sources in New Delhi, India was particularly anguished over Pakistan's statement on Tuesday, sharing details of the conversation that centred around the Kashmir issue. Though Pakistani leaders may have telephoned separatists in Kashmir in the past but perhaps, it was the first time in recent years that Islamabad put out a statement highlighting the talking points which New Delhi felt was a clear case of violation of the red lines, the sources said. Meanwhile, Pakistan's major political parties issued a joint declaration at the end of All Parties Kashmir Conference on Saturday and said that peace in the region was not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue. The declaration called on the Pakistan government to prepare an effective foreign policy to resolve the long-standing issue of Kashmir.

New Delhi should stop blaming Islamabad for its problems: Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi

India has come strongly on Islamabad a day after<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-foreign-minister-calls-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-india-calls-it-regressive-step-193753"> Pakistan's High Commissioner to India</a> Sohail Mahmood was summoned after Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke with separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who heads All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Valley.

Highlighting the divergence in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-pak-high-commissioner-over-foreign-minister-qureshis-phone-call-to-hurriyat-leader-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-193958">Pakistani government, ministry of external</a> affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "this is bit confusing is while one part of the government is talking about building bridges and peace, the other part which is exactly acting the opposite of what one part is talking about. Absolutely no clarity and it lacks seriousness."

On the Qureshi-Mirwaiz phone call, Raveesh Kumar said: "No doubt that this again exposes Pakistan's duplicity when they talk about peace at one hand and at the same time working together with forces which are pushing or fomenting anti-India sentiments. "

This comes even as Islamabad summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria on Thursday morning. Islamabad has also in a press release issued by Pakistan's foreign ministry "dismissed" objections raised by India on the phone call.

FM Qureshi will be visiting the United Kingdom soon for a number of events including anti-India conferences on Kashmir. Events that are being organized in London includes an event at House of Commons and an exhibition from 4-5 February.

Reacting to the development, MEA spokesperson said, "What we have noticed in recent months, the level at which anti-India sentiments are being pushed across the world, this is something unprecedented. I don't think we have noticed this level of action on their part."

India has "strongly" taken the issue up with UK and hopes "they do understand our objections to proposed conference and take appropriate action"

Adding further, Raveesh said,"UK is aware about our sensitivities in the matter. As a friendly country and as a strategic partner, we hope that government of UK will address our concerns which we have explained to them on the proposed conference which very clearly is intended to undermine the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of India."

On Jan 26th this year, India's Republic Day, the Indian flag was burnt by Pakistan backed Khalistani elements.

India has come strongly on Islamabad a day after Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned after Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke with separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who heads All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Valley.

India has come strongly on Islamabad a day after Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned after Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke with separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who heads All Parties Hurriyat Conference in the Valley. Highlighting the divergence in the Pakistani government, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "this is bit confusing is while one part of the government is talking about building bridges and peace, the other part which is exactly acting the opposite of what one part is talking about. Absolutely no clarity and it lacks seriousness." On the Qureshi-Mirwaiz phone call, Raveesh Kumar said: "No doubt that this again exposes Pakistan's duplicity when they talk about peace at one hand and at the same time working together with forces which are pushing or fomenting anti-India sentiments. " This comes even as Islamabad summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria on Thursday morning. Islamabad has also in a press release issued by Pakistan's foreign ministry "dismissed" objections raised by India on the phone call. FM Qureshi will be visiting the United Kingdom soon for a number of events including anti-India conferences on Kashmir. Events that are being organized in London includes an event at House of Commons and an exhibition from 4-5 February. Reacting to the development, MEA spokesperson said, "What we have noticed in recent months, the level at which anti-India sentiments are being pushed across the world, this is something unprecedented. I don't think we have noticed this level of action on their part." India has "strongly" taken the issue up with UK and hopes "they do understand our objections to proposed conference and take appropriate action" Adding further, Raveesh said,"UK is aware about our sensitivities in the matter. As a friendly country and as a strategic partner, we hope that government of UK will address our concerns which we have explained to them on the proposed conference which very clearly is intended to undermine the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of India." On Jan 26th this year, India's Republic Day, the Indian flag was burnt by Pakistan backed Khalistani elements.

India expresses displeasure to UK over Pak foreign minister Qureshi's upcoming anti-India conference

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dueling-plans-to-end-us-shutdown-fail-in-senate-talks-resume-192581">Dueling</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dueling-plans-to-end-us-shutdown-fail-in-senate-talks-resume-192581"> plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume</a>

The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-to-close-us-embassy-consulates-maduro-192578">Venezuela to close US embassy, consulates: Nicolas Maduro</a>

Venezuela will close its embassy and all consulates in the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday, one day after he broke off diplomatic relations in response to US recognition of an opposition leader as interim president.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">Taliban appoints </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600"> political leader to join peace talks with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-new-political-leader-to-join-us-taliban-peace-talks-192600">US</a>

A co-founder of the Taliban was appointed as the leader of its political office in Qatar on Thursday to strengthen its hand in peace talks with the United States as they try to establish a mechanism to end the 17-year Afghan war.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-miles-and-miles-from-resolving-trade-conflict-official-192584">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-miles-and-miles-from-resolving-trade-conflict-official-192584">, China 'miles and miles' from resolving trade conflict: Official</a>

Washington and Beijing are "miles and miles" from resolving their trade war, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday.

A high-level Chinese delegation is due in Washington next week for talks to resolve the dispute by March 1, when US duty rates on Chinese imports are due to rise sharply, but Ross tried to tamp down expectations to those meetings.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-envoy-says-dialogue-is-indispensable-to-resolve-tensions-between-india-pakistan-192594">Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan</a>

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security.

Dueling plans to end US shutdown fail in Senate, talks resume The US Senate on Thursday blocked dueling plans to reopen shuttered federal agencies, a fresh setback in efforts to end a month-long government shutdown, but President Donald Trump signalled he could back a new proposal if it includes border security. Venezuela to close US embassy, consulates: Nicolas Maduro Venezuela will close its embassy and all consulates in the United States, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday, one day after he broke off diplomatic relations in response to US recognition of an opposition leader as interim president. Taliban appoints new political leader to join peace talks with US A co-founder of the Taliban was appointed as the leader of its political office in Qatar on Thursday to strengthen its hand in peace talks with the United States as they try to establish a mechanism to end the 17-year Afghan war. US, China 'miles and miles' from resolving trade conflict: Official Washington and Beijing are "miles and miles" from resolving their trade war, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday. A high-level Chinese delegation is due in Washington next week for talks to resolve the dispute by March 1, when US duty rates on Chinese imports are due to rise sharply, but Ross tried to tamp down expectations to those meetings. Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

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

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

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

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

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood today attended an Iftar at the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah here.

The High Commissioner was welcomed at the Dargah by 'Sajjadah Nasheen' (chief administrator of dargah) Tahir Nizami and other members of the Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Spiritual Foundation, a Pakistan High Commission statement said.

Mahmood, along with the foundation's Chairman Moosa Nizami, served Iftari to a large number of people present at the Dargah.

The Pakistani envoy also paid obeisance at the shrines of Hazrat Nizamuddin and Amir Khusro.

Mahmood, along with the foundation's Chairman Moosa Nizami, served Iftari to a large number of people present at the Dargah

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood today attended an Iftar at the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah here. The High Commissioner was welcomed at the Dargah by 'Sajjadah Nasheen' (chief administrator of dargah) Tahir Nizami and other members of the Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Spiritual Foundation, a Pakistan High Commission statement said. Mahmood, along with the foundation's Chairman Moosa Nizami, served Iftari to a large number of people present at the Dargah. The Pakistani envoy also paid obeisance at the shrines of Hazrat Nizamuddin and Amir Khusro.

Pakistan envoy attends Iftar at Nizamuddin Dargah

It is pretty normal for any High Commissioner to go back for consultation and &#39;&#39;We have no comments to offer on why he has gone back,&#39;&#39; said Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood.

It&#39;s not a question of recall. It&#39;s routine, he added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-high-commissioner-to-india-summoned-by-pak-government-to-report-on-harassment-row-35911">Our ambassadors do come for consultation</a>&nbsp;and there is no linkage, he said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am surprised why is this question being raised. He has been called for consultation. This is pretty normal &amp; routine. It is not a recall: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood <a href="https://t.co/TbpGtcLMmw">pic.twitter.com/TbpGtcLMmw</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974234509666287618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Earlier Pakistan government called its&nbsp;High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood for consultation over the alleged harassment of officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Raveesh Kumar said&nbsp;&#39;&#39;We want that our Commission in Islamabad functions smoothly, the officials are not harassed, their work is not obstructed and&nbsp;that the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 is abided by.&#39;&#39;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;We have seen reports on issues raised by Pakistan. We will not like to respond through media but will take it up diplomatic channels.We have raised this through diplomatic channels in the past for the safety and security of our envoys,&#39;&#39; he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We won&#39;t give details of the issue which we&#39;ve taken up with Pak Govt. This is something which should be taken up through established diplomatic channels &amp; not published in media. We expect them to look into &amp; resolve those issues: MEA Spox on Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/saRlLGXJSE">pic.twitter.com/saRlLGXJSE</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974236986058985472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

On Wednesday, the Pakistan government had summoned India&#39;s Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over the issue.

JP Singh was summoned by Director General (South Asia &amp; SAARC) Mohammad Faisal and a strong protest was lodged at the &quot;maltreatment being meted out to the officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi&quot;, according to a statement by the Office of Spokesperson of Pakistan Foreign Affairs Ministry

A demarche was earlier made to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and the external affairs ministry in Delhi, a diplomatic source was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

The Pakistan High Commission had lodged complaints of harassment with the external affairs ministry last week.

India&#39;s external affairs ministry had assured Pak officials of investing.

&nbsp;

Pakistan government called Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood for consultation over the alleged harassment of officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi

It is pretty normal for any High Commissioner to go back for consultation and ''We have no comments to offer on why he has gone back,'' said Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood. It's not a question of recall. It's routine, he added. Our ambassadors do come for consultation and there is no linkage, he said. I am surprised why is this question being raised. He has been called for consultation. This is pretty normal & routine. It is not a recall: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood pic.twitter.com/TbpGtcLMmw — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2018 × Earlier Pakistan government called its High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood for consultation over the alleged harassment of officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Speaking to reporters, Raveesh Kumar said ''We want that our Commission in Islamabad functions smoothly, the officials are not harassed, their work is not obstructed and that the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 is abided by.'' ''We have seen reports on issues raised by Pakistan. We will not like to respond through media but will take it up diplomatic channels.We have raised this through diplomatic channels in the past for the safety and security of our envoys,'' he added. We won't give details of the issue which we've taken up with Pak Govt. This is something which should be taken up through established diplomatic channels & not published in media. We expect them to look into & resolve those issues: MEA Spox on Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan pic.twitter.com/saRlLGXJSE — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2018 × On Wednesday, the Pakistan government had summoned India's Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over the issue. JP Singh was summoned by Director General (South Asia & SAARC) Mohammad Faisal and a strong protest was lodged at the "maltreatment being meted out to the officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi", according to a statement by the Office of Spokesperson of Pakistan Foreign Affairs Ministry A demarche was earlier made to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and the external affairs ministry in Delhi, a diplomatic source was quoted as saying by the Dawn. The Pakistan High Commission had lodged complaints of harassment with the external affairs ministry last week. India's external affairs ministry had assured Pak officials of investing.

Routine, not recall: MEA on Pak High Commissioner to India being called back

sohail-mahmood

Sohail Mahmood, News on Sohail Mahmood, stories on Sohail Mahmood, articles on Sohail Mahmood, Sohail Mahmood stories at Wion, Sohail Mahmood news, Sohail Mahmood latest news

sohail mahmood

Pakistan's Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood offers Eid prayers at Jama Masjid

Pakistan's newly appointed foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood assumes office

Need for an objective narrative about Pakistan in India: Sohail Mahmood

High Commissioner to India, Sohail Mahmood appointed as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary

High Commissioner to India, Appoints Sohail Mahmood as Pak's Foreign Secretary

Pak High Commissioner arrives in New Delhi

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

Pakistan team to visit India on March 14 to discuss Kartarpur draft agreement

New Delhi should stop blaming Islamabad for its problems: Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi

India expresses displeasure to UK over Pak foreign minister Qureshi's upcoming anti-India conference

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

Pakistan envoy attends Iftar at Nizamuddin Dargah

Routine, not recall: MEA on Pak High Commissioner to India being called back