The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Friday held a rare closed-door consultation on the situation in Kashmir days after India revoked the special status to Jammu and Kashmir, sparking a fresh row with Pakistan. Watch this video to know more.

Breaking News: 4 permanent members back India at UNSC closed-door meet on J&K

Pakistan's efforts to raise Indian government's decision to end the special status of Jammu and Kashmir at the United Nations were thwarted on Friday as China's initiative to discuss the matter at the United Nations Security Council found no takers.

Breaking News: Pakistan's efforts to rake up Kashmir issue fall flat at UNSC

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-letter-on-kashmir-united-nations-security-council-to-hold-closed-door-talks-on-kashmir-today-243241">Pakistan's letter on Kashmir: United Nations Security Council to hold closed-door talks on Kashmir today</a>

Following a request from China, the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council&nbsp;(UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday. All 15 members of the UNSC will be present when the issue is taken up.

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North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;launched at least two projectiles into the sea on Friday, South&nbsp;Korea's military said, shortly after Pyongyang described South&nbsp;Korea's president as "impudent" and vowed that inter-Korean talks are over.

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Britain's Mediterranean territory Gibraltar decided on Thursday to free a seized&nbsp;Iranian oil tanker, but did not immediately indicate when or if the ship would set sail after the United States launched a new, last-minute legal bid to hold it.

&nbsp;

Pakistan's letter on Kashmir: United Nations Security Council to hold closed-door talks on Kashmir today Following a request from China, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday.

Pakistan's letter on Kashmir: United Nations Security Council to hold closed-door talks on Kashmir today Following a request from China, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday. All 15 members of the UNSC will be present when the issue is taken up. North Korea fires projectiles, rejects South Korea's dialogue pledge North Korea launched at least two projectiles into the sea on Friday, South Korea's military said, shortly after Pyongyang described South Korea's president as "impudent" and vowed that inter-Korean talks are over. Trump blames mass shootings on mentally ill, calls for more mental institutions President Donald Trump said on Thursday he supports meaningful background checks for gun buyers, but he told reporters that those responsible for recent mass shootings were mentally ill and the United States should build more mental institutions. Trump says China talks 'productive'; Beijing vows tariff retaliation US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that US and Chinese negotiators were holding "productive" trade talks and expected them to meet in September despite US tariffs on over $125 billion worth of Chinese imports taking effect September 1. Gibraltar decides to free seized Iranian tanker; US opens new case to hold it Britain's Mediterranean territory Gibraltar decided on Thursday to free a seized Iranian oil tanker, but did not immediately indicate when or if the ship would set sail after the United States launched a new, last-minute legal bid to hold it.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Following a request from China, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday. All 15 members of the UNSC will be present when the issue is taken up.

Following a request from China, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday. All 15 members of the UNSC will be present when the issue is taken up. China asked for informal closed-door consultations on Friday following Pakistan's letter to the UNSC in New York. The informal consultations, scheduled at 10am local time (7.30pm IST), will see the exchange of views among the UNSC members on Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's letter to UNSC President & Polish envoy Joanna Wronecka on Kashmir in the aftermath of new Delhi's decision to remove special status to erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The UNSC will discuss how to react to Pakistan's letter, according to reports. Pakistan had called for the letter to be circulated as quickly as possible and is reportedly keen on a meeting of the permanent members. Equatorial Guinea, who is a non-permanent member of the UNSC has said that they have received no instructions on the way forward... Poland---the current chair of the security council had however asked India and Pakistan to resolve the dispute bilaterally. The Pakistan FM asked the letter to be disseminated at the earliest and that a meeting of UNSC should be called but so far no such call has been taken. Pakistan is keen to have a meeting in which it gets right to speak and record of discussion takes place. The consultations will happen without India and Pakistan, both not being present and since it is a consultation process it will not be part of the UNSC record. Meanwhile, Russia has said there is no information on any initiative on Pakistan's letter. Dmitry Polyanskiy, first deputy permanent representative of Russia to the UN said, "There is no direct information that there will be some meeting, no initiative to my knowledge". "Russia will not object if it is a closed meeting since Kashmir issue has not been taken up at UNSC for long time. We need to compare notes and reload this file," he said. When asked if Moscow is doing anything behind the scenes, Polyanskiy said, "Everybody is doing something behind the scenes because we are all worried including Moscow".

Pakistan's letter on Kashmir: United Nations Security Council to hold closed-door talks today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/you-are-a-thief-pakistans-un-representative-maleeha-lodhi-heckled-in-new-york-242594">Pakistan</a> on Tuesday asked the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-people-in-pakistan-kashmir-be-aware-unsc-not-waiting-for-you-qureshi-242536">United Nations Security Council </a>to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

&nbsp;"Pakistan will not provoke a conflict. But India should not mistake our restraint for weakness," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi wrote in a letter to the Security Council.&nbsp;

"If India chooses to resort again to the use of force, Pakistan will be obliged to respond, in self defence, with all its capabilities," he said, adding that "in view of the dangerous implications" Pakistan requested the meeting.

It was not immediately clear how the 15-member council would respond to the request and whether a member of the body would also need to make a formal request. Pakistan said on Saturday it had China's support for the move.

Watch: Pakistan seeks special UNSC session over J&amp;K

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Poland is president of the Security Council for August. Polish Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz told reporters at the United Nations on Tuesday that the council had received a letter from Pakistan and "will discuss that issue and take a proper decision."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on India and Pakistan to refrain from any steps that could affect the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Guterres also said he was concerned about reports of restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir.

The UN Security Council adopted several resolutions in 1948 and in the 1950s on the Kashmir issue, including one which says a plebiscite should be held to determine the state's future.

Another resolution also calls upon both sides to "refrain from making any statements and from doing or causing to be done or permitting any acts which might aggravate the situation."

UN peacekeepers have been deployed since 1949 to observe a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan on Tuesday asked the United Nations Security Council to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. "Pakistan will not provoke a conflict.

Pakistan on Tuesday asked the United Nations Security Council to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. "Pakistan will not provoke a conflict. But India should not mistake our restraint for weakness," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi wrote in a letter to the Security Council. "If India chooses to resort again to the use of force, Pakistan will be obliged to respond, in self defence, with all its capabilities," he said, adding that "in view of the dangerous implications" Pakistan requested the meeting. It was not immediately clear how the 15-member council would respond to the request and whether a member of the body would also need to make a formal request. Pakistan said on Saturday it had China's support for the move. Watch: Pakistan seeks special UNSC session over J&K × Poland is president of the Security Council for August. Polish Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz told reporters at the United Nations on Tuesday that the council had received a letter from Pakistan and "will discuss that issue and take a proper decision." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on India and Pakistan to refrain from any steps that could affect the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Guterres also said he was concerned about reports of restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir. The UN Security Council adopted several resolutions in 1948 and in the 1950s on the Kashmir issue, including one which says a plebiscite should be held to determine the state's future. Another resolution also calls upon both sides to "refrain from making any statements and from doing or causing to be done or permitting any acts which might aggravate the situation." UN peacekeepers have been deployed since 1949 to observe a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India's move in Jammu and Kashmir

In a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council did not take up Islamabad's letter of August 6 at several meetings it held this week, in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres tried to rake up Kashmir issue at the top United Nations body on August 6. Pakistani ambassador to UN Maleeha Lodhi briefed UN Security Council President Joanna Wronecka in this regard but the matter seems not to have found any traction.

Answering a question on if UNSC will take up the matter on Thursday, the UNSC president responded saying "no comments".

This even as Russia, one of the Permanent five members of the UNSC has come out openly in support of India on it abrogating article 370.

The Russia Foreign Ministry said changes in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its bifurcation is "carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India". &nbsp;

Echoing New Delhi on Shimla agreement, Moscow said, "We hope that the differences between them(India and Pakistan) will be resolved by political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis by following the provisions of the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999." 
&nbsp; 
US State Department last week in a statement said it has "taken note" of Indian government saying development on changing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir is its internal matter. &nbsp;

China, on the other hand, reacted negatively calling India's move as "unacceptable". &nbsp;India responded to it asking Bejing "not to comment on the internal affairs of other countries". So far no statement was issued by France or UK on the development.

The United Nations also last week reacted to the developments in the Indian subcontinent.&nbsp; 
Recalling the Shimla agreement, the UN urged restraint by all sides. Interestingly, it did not offer its "good offices" for mediation between India and Pakistan.

In a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council did not take up Islamabad's letter of August 6 at several meetings it held this week, in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council did not take up Islamabad's letter of August 6 at several meetings it held this week, in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi in a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres tried to rake up Kashmir issue at the top United Nations body on August 6. Pakistani ambassador to UN Maleeha Lodhi briefed UN Security Council President Joanna Wronecka in this regard but the matter seems not to have found any traction. Answering a question on if UNSC will take up the matter on Thursday, the UNSC president responded saying "no comments". This even as Russia, one of the Permanent five members of the UNSC has come out openly in support of India on it abrogating article 370. The Russia Foreign Ministry said changes in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its bifurcation is "carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India". Echoing New Delhi on Shimla agreement, Moscow said, "We hope that the differences between them(India and Pakistan) will be resolved by political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis by following the provisions of the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999." US State Department last week in a statement said it has "taken note" of Indian government saying development on changing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir is its internal matter. China, on the other hand, reacted negatively calling India's move as "unacceptable". India responded to it asking Bejing "not to comment on the internal affairs of other countries". So far no statement was issued by France or UK on the development. The United Nations also last week reacted to the developments in the Indian subcontinent. Recalling the Shimla agreement, the UN urged restraint by all sides. Interestingly, it did not offer its "good offices" for mediation between India and Pakistan.

United Nations Security Council snubs Pakistan, does not discuss its letter on Kashmir

The UN Security Council on Monday called for dialogue and measures to end tensions in the Gulf, but Iran rejected talks with the United States after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-ultimately-responsible-says-trump-after-fresh-us-sanctions-on-iran-230106">President Donald Trump imposed fresh sanctions</a>.

In a unanimous press statement drafted by Kuwait, the council condemned recent attacks on oil tankers, calling them a threat to the world's energy supply and to international peace and security.

After a two-hour meeting, the council agreed on a statement that did not single out Iran but made clear that all sides should back away from a much-feared military confrontation.

That joint stance from world powers came just hours after Trump slapped new sanctions on Iran, targeting supreme leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-protests-sea-lanes-for-other-countries-for-zero-compensation-we-dont-even-need-to-be-there-trump-230043">Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> and eight Iranian commanders.

As the council met behind closed doors at Washington's request, Iran's UN ambassador told reporters that conditions were not ripe for dialogue with the United States.

"You cannot start a dialogue with somebody who is threatening you, who is intimidating you," said Ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi, who said the "atmosphere of such a dialogue is not ready yet."

Watch: Trump refuses to pay heed to UN report

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The council said all concerned parties and all countries in the region must "exercise maximum restraint and take measures and actions to reduce escalation and tension."

"Council members urge that differences must be addressed peacefully and through dialogue," said the statement backed by both Russia, a friend of Iran, and the United States.&nbsp;

Britain, France and Germany separately called for "de-escalation and dialogue, with full respect for international rules."

US presents evidence

The Iranian ambassador told reporters that the United States must stop "its economic war against the Iranian people" and renewed an offer to hold regional talks on security, under UN auspices.

"As long as this threat is there, there is no way that Iran and the US can start a dialogue," said the ambassador.&nbsp;

Tensions have soared after Iran last week shot down a US surveillance drone that Tehran insists had ventured into its airspace -- a claim rejected by Washington.

Trump triggered an international alarm when he said on Friday that he had called off US military strikes against Iran at the last minute because he decided there would be too much collateral damage.

During the meeting, the United States presented evidence which it says shows that Iran was behind recent attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, using divers who placed mines on the ship's haul.&nbsp;

Tehran has denied responsibility for those attacks.

US Acting Ambassador Jonathan Cohen nevertheless said, "the only state actor with the capabilities and the motive to carry out these attacks is Iran."

UN diplomats said the United States pressed to have a mention of a "state actor" responsible for the tanker attacks in the press statement, but that Russia rejected the language.

The Security Council is set on Wednesday to discuss the Iran nuclear deal that the United States has exited and that the Europeans are struggling to salvage.

The UN Security Council on Monday called for dialogue and measures to end tensions in the Gulf, but Iran rejected talks with the United States after President Donald Trump imposed fresh sanctions.

The UN Security Council on Monday called for dialogue and measures to end tensions in the Gulf, but Iran rejected talks with the United States after President Donald Trump imposed fresh sanctions. In a unanimous press statement drafted by Kuwait, the council condemned recent attacks on oil tankers, calling them a threat to the world's energy supply and to international peace and security. After a two-hour meeting, the council agreed on a statement that did not single out Iran but made clear that all sides should back away from a much-feared military confrontation. That joint stance from world powers came just hours after Trump slapped new sanctions on Iran, targeting supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and eight Iranian commanders. As the council met behind closed doors at Washington's request, Iran's UN ambassador told reporters that conditions were not ripe for dialogue with the United States. "You cannot start a dialogue with somebody who is threatening you, who is intimidating you," said Ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi, who said the "atmosphere of such a dialogue is not ready yet." Watch: Trump refuses to pay heed to UN report The council said all concerned parties and all countries in the region must "exercise maximum restraint and take measures and actions to reduce escalation and tension." "Council members urge that differences must be addressed peacefully and through dialogue," said the statement backed by both Russia, a friend of Iran, and the United States. Britain, France and Germany separately called for "de-escalation and dialogue, with full respect for international rules." US presents evidence The Iranian ambassador told reporters that the United States must stop "its economic war against the Iranian people" and renewed an offer to hold regional talks on security, under UN auspices. "As long as this threat is there, there is no way that Iran and the US can start a dialogue," said the ambassador. Tensions have soared after Iran last week shot down a US surveillance drone that Tehran insists had ventured into its airspace -- a claim rejected by Washington. Trump triggered an international alarm when he said on Friday that he had called off US military strikes against Iran at the last minute because he decided there would be too much collateral damage. During the meeting, the United States presented evidence which it says shows that Iran was behind recent attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, using divers who placed mines on the ship's haul. Tehran has denied responsibility for those attacks. US Acting Ambassador Jonathan Cohen nevertheless said, "the only state actor with the capabilities and the motive to carry out these attacks is Iran." UN diplomats said the United States pressed to have a mention of a "state actor" responsible for the tanker attacks in the press statement, but that Russia rejected the language. The Security Council is set on Wednesday to discuss the Iran nuclear deal that the United States has exited and that the Europeans are struggling to salvage.

UN Security Council urges dialogue, end to US-Iran tensions as Trump announces new sanctions

While Afghanistan gears up to have its fourth Presidential elections in September this year, India has reiterated its support for an "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" inclusive peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country.

India`s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-envoy-to-un-syed-akbaruddin-speaks-exclusively-to-wion-215115">Syed Akbaruddin</a> speaking at an open debate on the situation in Afghanistan at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-requests-un-security-council-meeting-on-golan-205899">United Nations Security Council</a> said on Wednesday that India stands committed to support the peace process, which promotes and protects unity, sovereignty, democracy, inclusiveness and prosperity of the country.&nbsp;

Akbaruddin said that while the country may be perceived as a "threat of transnational terrorism," it is the people of Afghanistan who have long been its victims.

"While there may be perceptions of threats of transnational terrorism from Afghanistan, in reality, it is the Afghan people who have been, for long, victims of transnational terrorism," said Akbaruddin.&nbsp;

Afghanistan is suffering from an unstable political, social, and security situation due to the activities of the various terrorist organisation, including the Taliban and the Islamic State (IS).&nbsp;

In his address, Akbaruddin stressed that the "sanctuaries and safe havens provided to" these terror networks need to be addressed for genuine and sustainable peace in the region.

"As the way forward is chalked out, we cannot ignore those groups enjoying the support and safe havens carry out violent and terrorist activities from across borders.&nbsp;

They cannot be allowed to negotiate from a place of advantage," said Akbaruddin"The sanctuaries and safe havens provided to terror networks have to be addressed for genuine and sustainable peace.

&nbsp;The terrorist activities of the Taliban, Haqqani Network, Da`esh, as well as Al Qaeda and its proscribed affiliates, including the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, need to end," he added.&nbsp;

The war-torn nation is scheduled to undergo three elections--presidential, the provincial councils and the Ghazni parliamentary elections, simultaneously on September 28."By all accounts, this is a crucial year for Afghanistan.

&nbsp;While Afghanistan gears up to have its fourth Presidential elections later this year, all of us need to be mindful of the gains that the Afghan people have made in the last 18 years.

"They have strengthened democracy in their country; established a constitutional order; uplifted the status of women; protected the status of minorities and youth; built a strong army and sturdy security forces, and created stronger regional links.&nbsp;

The Ambassador stressed that India will continue to assist the people of Afghanistan in "fulfilling their desire for a peaceful country, which can focus on development and build on the gains in their journey towards greater prosperity and higher achievements" The conduct of transparent, credible and timely Presidential elections during the year will assist in this endeavour," he said.&nbsp;

Akbaruddin referred to the concluding communique of the Loya Jirga, convened by President Ghani on April 29, which called amongst other things for a ceasefire, talks without pre-conditions, a Taliban office to be opened in Afghanistan, a responsible withdrawal of international forces, the formation of an inclusive negotiating team, continued support from the international community, and the preservation of human rights, particularly women`s rights.

"These provisions, agreed to by the Afghan people, have been long-standing and are supported strongly by several countries in the region," he said.&nbsp;

While Afghanistan gears up to have its fourth Presidential elections in September this year, India has reiterated its support for an "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" inclusive peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country.

While Afghanistan gears up to have its fourth Presidential elections in September this year, India has reiterated its support for an "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" inclusive peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country. India`s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin speaking at an open debate on the situation in Afghanistan at United Nations Security Council said on Wednesday that India stands committed to support the peace process, which promotes and protects unity, sovereignty, democracy, inclusiveness and prosperity of the country. Akbaruddin said that while the country may be perceived as a "threat of transnational terrorism," it is the people of Afghanistan who have long been its victims. "While there may be perceptions of threats of transnational terrorism from Afghanistan, in reality, it is the Afghan people who have been, for long, victims of transnational terrorism," said Akbaruddin. Afghanistan is suffering from an unstable political, social, and security situation due to the activities of the various terrorist organisation, including the Taliban and the Islamic State (IS). In his address, Akbaruddin stressed that the "sanctuaries and safe havens provided to" these terror networks need to be addressed for genuine and sustainable peace in the region. "As the way forward is chalked out, we cannot ignore those groups enjoying the support and safe havens carry out violent and terrorist activities from across borders. They cannot be allowed to negotiate from a place of advantage," said Akbaruddin"The sanctuaries and safe havens provided to terror networks have to be addressed for genuine and sustainable peace. The terrorist activities of the Taliban, Haqqani Network, Da`esh, as well as Al Qaeda and its proscribed affiliates, including the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, need to end," he added. The war-torn nation is scheduled to undergo three elections--presidential, the provincial councils and the Ghazni parliamentary elections, simultaneously on September 28."By all accounts, this is a crucial year for Afghanistan. While Afghanistan gears up to have its fourth Presidential elections later this year, all of us need to be mindful of the gains that the Afghan people have made in the last 18 years. "They have strengthened democracy in their country; established a constitutional order; uplifted the status of women; protected the status of minorities and youth; built a strong army and sturdy security forces, and created stronger regional links. The Ambassador stressed that India will continue to assist the people of Afghanistan in "fulfilling their desire for a peaceful country, which can focus on development and build on the gains in their journey towards greater prosperity and higher achievements" The conduct of transparent, credible and timely Presidential elections during the year will assist in this endeavour," he said. Akbaruddin referred to the concluding communique of the Loya Jirga, convened by President Ghani on April 29, which called amongst other things for a ceasefire, talks without pre-conditions, a Taliban office to be opened in Afghanistan, a responsible withdrawal of international forces, the formation of an inclusive negotiating team, continued support from the international community, and the preservation of human rights, particularly women`s rights. "These provisions, agreed to by the Afghan people, have been long-standing and are supported strongly by several countries in the region," he said.

India supports Afghan-led inclusive peace process: Syed Akbaruddin

Sri Lanka on Wednesday said it will implement the United Nations Security Council's resolution to curb terrorism and violent extremism in the country, weeks after the country saw the worst jihadi attack.

The announcement came days after the visit by the UN Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) and Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED) Michele Coninsx, during which both sides discussed measures needed to be taken by Colombo to stem the flow of foreign terrorist fighters and counter violent extremism, in compliance with the international counter-terrorism obligations.&nbsp;

"Sri Lanka expressed its commitment to the 'Whole of government' approach in counter terrorism and violent extremism," the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

During her talks with the Sri Lankan officials, Coninsx also discussed terrorist financing and asset freezing, dealing with foreign terrorist fighters, the counterterrorism legislation, countering radicalisation and violent extremism, effective border management against terrorist travel, and the threat posed by the internet and social media in spreading radical ideology and violent extremism.

The officials apprised the ASG about recent moves by the country, like banning three groups--National Thowheed Jamaath (NTJ), Jamaathe Millathe Ibrahim (JMI) and Wilayah As Seylani (WAS)--as terrorist organisations after the April 21 serial bomb blasts in three churches and as many luxury hotels in which 258 people died and over 500 injured.

According to Sri Lankan police, following the Easter blasts around 2,300 people were arrested, of which a majority - over 1820 - were Muslims.

Coninsx also informed about the further measures that Sri Lanka needs to take in order to be compliant with international counter-terrorism obligations under the UN Security Council resolutions 2178 of 2014 and 2396 of 2017.&nbsp;

The ASG was visiting the country on the invitation of Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had requested UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for the visit following the devastating terror attacks to counter the new threat posed by terrorism.&nbsp;

At a review meeting held at the conclusion of the visit, Marapana received an assessment from the visiting ASG and discussed future cooperation with the Government, the statement said.

UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka Hanna Singer, officials from the CTED and the UN Country team were associated with the ASG. Sri Lanka's Permanent Mission in

New York which has been coordinating with the CTED, will engage in necessary follow up from the visit, it said.

The CTED was established by the UN Security Council as a special political mission to assist the UN Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC). It is tasked with carrying out the policy decisions of the CTC, conduct expert assessments of member states and facilitate counter-terrorism technical assistance to countries.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka on Wednesday said it will implement the United Nations Security Council's resolution to curb terrorism and violent extremism in the country, weeks after the country saw the worst jihadi attack.

Sri Lanka on Wednesday said it will implement the United Nations Security Council's resolution to curb terrorism and violent extremism in the country, weeks after the country saw the worst jihadi attack. The announcement came days after the visit by the UN Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) and Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED) Michele Coninsx, during which both sides discussed measures needed to be taken by Colombo to stem the flow of foreign terrorist fighters and counter violent extremism, in compliance with the international counter-terrorism obligations. "Sri Lanka expressed its commitment to the 'Whole of government' approach in counter terrorism and violent extremism," the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry said in a statement. During her talks with the Sri Lankan officials, Coninsx also discussed terrorist financing and asset freezing, dealing with foreign terrorist fighters, the counterterrorism legislation, countering radicalisation and violent extremism, effective border management against terrorist travel, and the threat posed by the internet and social media in spreading radical ideology and violent extremism. The officials apprised the ASG about recent moves by the country, like banning three groups--National Thowheed Jamaath (NTJ), Jamaathe Millathe Ibrahim (JMI) and Wilayah As Seylani (WAS)--as terrorist organisations after the April 21 serial bomb blasts in three churches and as many luxury hotels in which 258 people died and over 500 injured. According to Sri Lankan police, following the Easter blasts around 2,300 people were arrested, of which a majority - over 1820 - were Muslims. Coninsx also informed about the further measures that Sri Lanka needs to take in order to be compliant with international counter-terrorism obligations under the UN Security Council resolutions 2178 of 2014 and 2396 of 2017. The ASG was visiting the country on the invitation of Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had requested UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for the visit following the devastating terror attacks to counter the new threat posed by terrorism. At a review meeting held at the conclusion of the visit, Marapana received an assessment from the visiting ASG and discussed future cooperation with the Government, the statement said. UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka Hanna Singer, officials from the CTED and the UN Country team were associated with the ASG. Sri Lanka's Permanent Mission in New York which has been coordinating with the CTED, will engage in necessary follow up from the visit, it said. The CTED was established by the UN Security Council as a special political mission to assist the UN Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC). It is tasked with carrying out the policy decisions of the CTC, conduct expert assessments of member states and facilitate counter-terrorism technical assistance to countries.

Sri Lanka to implement UN Security Council's measures on counter-terrorism

The UN has sanctioned ISIS' South Asia Branch, a terrorist group formed in 2015 by a Pakistani national and a former commander of the TTP, for its links with al-Qaeda and involvement in several deadly attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan that killed over 150 people.

The United Nations Security Council's 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee on Tuesday sanctioned Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant - Khorasan (ISIL-K), which is also known as 'ISIS' South Asia Branch, ISIL Khorasan, Islamic State's Khorasan Province' and 'South Asian Chapter of ISIL'.

The listing comes two weeks after the Sanctions Committee designated Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as "global terrorist" on May 1, capping a decade-long effort by India and its allies including the US, the UK, France to sanction the mastermind of several attacks in India, including the 2001 Parliament attack and the February 14 Pulwama terror attack which killed 40 CRPF soldiers.

The group is now subject to the assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo.

The Sanctions Committee said in a statement that ISIS-K was formed on January 10, 2015, by a former Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander and was established by former Taliban faction commanders "who swore an oath of allegiance" to ISIS and its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

ISIS-K has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks in both Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The Sanctions Committee said the group was listed as being associated with ISIS or al-Qaida for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating" acts or activities by supplying, selling or transferring arms and related material.

It said the group engaged in "other acts or activities indicating an association with al-Qaeda, ISIS, or any cell, affiliate, a splinter group of al-Qaeda in Iraq". 
The group had announced its formation in an online video in January 2015.

ISIS spokesman Abou Mohamed al Adnani had announced its expansion into the area historically known as Khorasan, by acknowledging ISIS K leader's pledge of allegiance to al-Baghdadi and claiming the leader of the Islamic State had accepted his pledge and appointed him as governor of the Khorasan Province.

The Sanctions Committee said ISIS-K had carried out numerous attacks since its formation that have killed more than 150 people.

In November 2016, the group carried out a suicide bombing at a Sufi shrine in Quetta, Pakistan that killed at least 50 people and injured over 100 people, it said.

In December 2017, the outfit claimed multiple suicide bombings at a Shia cultural centre and news agency in Kabul, Afghanistan that killed more than 41 people, including women and children, and injured over 84 people, it added.

In July 2018, the group claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing outside a polling station in Quetta, Pakistan that killed at least 31 people and injured over 24 people.

According to leading Washington-based think tank for defence and national security Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), in 2014, Pakistani national Hafiz Saeed Khan was chosen to spearhead ISIL-K province as its first "emir".

Khan, a senior TTP commander, "brought along other prominent TTP members including the group's spokesman Sheikh Maqbool and many district chiefs - when he initially pledged allegiance to al-Baghdadi in October 2014," the CSIS, a nonprofit policy research organisation, noted on its website.

The website said the group's "early membership included a contingent of Pakistani militants who emerged in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province around 2010, just across the border from the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan".

It also said many of these militants were "estranged members" of TTP and Lashkar-e Islam, who had fled Pakistan to escape from the security forces.

According to Combatting Terrorism Center, an academic institution at US Military Academy in New York, as of 2017, some members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, the Haqqani Network and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) had also "defected" to ISIS-K.&nbsp;

The UN has sanctioned ISIS' South Asia Branch, a terrorist group formed in 2015 by a Pakistani national and a former commander of the TTP, for its links with al-Qaeda and involvement in several deadly attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan that killed over 150 people.

The UN has sanctioned ISIS' South Asia Branch, a terrorist group formed in 2015 by a Pakistani national and a former commander of the TTP, for its links with al-Qaeda and involvement in several deadly attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan that killed over 150 people. The United Nations Security Council's 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee on Tuesday sanctioned Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant - Khorasan (ISIL-K), which is also known as 'ISIS' South Asia Branch, ISIL Khorasan, Islamic State's Khorasan Province' and 'South Asian Chapter of ISIL'. The listing comes two weeks after the Sanctions Committee designated Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as "global terrorist" on May 1, capping a decade-long effort by India and its allies including the US, the UK, France to sanction the mastermind of several attacks in India, including the 2001 Parliament attack and the February 14 Pulwama terror attack which killed 40 CRPF soldiers. The group is now subject to the assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. The Sanctions Committee said in a statement that ISIS-K was formed on January 10, 2015, by a former Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) commander and was established by former Taliban faction commanders "who swore an oath of allegiance" to ISIS and its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. ISIS-K has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Sanctions Committee said the group was listed as being associated with ISIS or al-Qaida for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating" acts or activities by supplying, selling or transferring arms and related material. It said the group engaged in "other acts or activities indicating an association with al-Qaeda, ISIS, or any cell, affiliate, a splinter group of al-Qaeda in Iraq". The group had announced its formation in an online video in January 2015. ISIS spokesman Abou Mohamed al Adnani had announced its expansion into the area historically known as Khorasan, by acknowledging ISIS K leader's pledge of allegiance to al-Baghdadi and claiming the leader of the Islamic State had accepted his pledge and appointed him as governor of the Khorasan Province. The Sanctions Committee said ISIS-K had carried out numerous attacks since its formation that have killed more than 150 people. In November 2016, the group carried out a suicide bombing at a Sufi shrine in Quetta, Pakistan that killed at least 50 people and injured over 100 people, it said. In December 2017, the outfit claimed multiple suicide bombings at a Shia cultural centre and news agency in Kabul, Afghanistan that killed more than 41 people, including women and children, and injured over 84 people, it added. In July 2018, the group claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing outside a polling station in Quetta, Pakistan that killed at least 31 people and injured over 24 people. According to leading Washington-based think tank for defence and national security Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), in 2014, Pakistani national Hafiz Saeed Khan was chosen to spearhead ISIL-K province as its first "emir". Khan, a senior TTP commander, "brought along other prominent TTP members including the group's spokesman Sheikh Maqbool and many district chiefs - when he initially pledged allegiance to al-Baghdadi in October 2014," the CSIS, a nonprofit policy research organisation, noted on its website. The website said the group's "early membership included a contingent of Pakistani militants who emerged in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province around 2010, just across the border from the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan". It also said many of these militants were "estranged members" of TTP and Lashkar-e Islam, who had fled Pakistan to escape from the security forces. According to Combatting Terrorism Center, an academic institution at US Military Academy in New York, as of 2017, some members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, the Haqqani Network and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) had also "defected" to ISIS-K.

UNSC sanctions terror group ISIS' South Asia Branch

Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the ban on Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar as a “big victory’ on Wednesday during an election rally in Jaipur.&nbsp;

PM Modi said that the designating Azhar as a global terrorist is a “big victory for India in its fight against terrorism”.&nbsp;

"UN's step of designating Masood Azahar as 'global terrorist' is the result of India's constant struggle against terrorism," said PM Modi.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: "UNSC has listed JeM's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasoodAzhar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasoodAzhar</a> as a Global Terrorist. In our fight against terrorism, it is a big victory," says, PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/262cSkV68t">pic.twitter.com/262cSkV68t</a>
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Masood Azhar in fourth attempt was&nbsp;listed as an international terrorist by the United Nation Security Council's 1267 committee. China, earlier on Wednesday, removed its hold on the listing of Masood Azhar, the man behind several terror attacks in India.

Listing of Azhar means that travel and an arms embargo will be imposed on him which means he cannot travel outside Pakistan nor can he buy weapons. His assets will also be frozen globally. But the big message that India has been able to send is that Pakistan remains the epicentre of terror. It is interesting to know that Pakistan hosts the largest number of United Nations listed terrorist.&nbsp;

India has been trying to list Azhar as a global terrorist for nearly a decade. It was in first in 2009 that New Delhi tried to get Azhar as a United Nations listed terrorist. India was the lone proposer back then. In 2016, India again proposed the listing and it was co-sponsored by UK, US, France. But the move was was blocked by China.

In 2017, the US, UK and France moved the proposal but China blocked the move again. The move in February of 2019 saw global support with 14 out of 15 members of UNCS backing the move for the listing of Masood Azhar. The proposal was moved US, UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan.&nbsp;

After the Chinese hold in March, France had announced it will be putting a freeze on the assets of Azhar and will raise the issue with the European Union. A joint release by French Foreign, Interior and Finance Ministry said, "We will raise this issue with our European partners with a view to including Masood Azhar on the European Union list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts, based on this decree."

Currently, a text has been circulated among all members of the European Union for listing of Azhar as a terrorist under EU jurisdiction. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the ban on Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar as a “big victory’ on Wednesday during an election rally in Jaipur. PM Modi said that the designating Azhar as a global terrorist is a “big victory for India in its fight against terrorism”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the ban on Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar as a “big victory’ on Wednesday during an election rally in Jaipur. PM Modi said that the designating Azhar as a global terrorist is a “big victory for India in its fight against terrorism”. "UN's step of designating Masood Azahar as 'global terrorist' is the result of India's constant struggle against terrorism," said PM Modi. #WATCH: "UNSC has listed JeM's #MasoodAzhar as a Global Terrorist. In our fight against terrorism, it is a big victory," says, PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/262cSkV68t — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2019 × Masood Azhar in fourth attempt was listed as an international terrorist by the United Nation Security Council's 1267 committee. China, earlier on Wednesday, removed its hold on the listing of Masood Azhar, the man behind several terror attacks in India. Listing of Azhar means that travel and an arms embargo will be imposed on him which means he cannot travel outside Pakistan nor can he buy weapons. His assets will also be frozen globally. But the big message that India has been able to send is that Pakistan remains the epicentre of terror. It is interesting to know that Pakistan hosts the largest number of United Nations listed terrorist. India has been trying to list Azhar as a global terrorist for nearly a decade. It was in first in 2009 that New Delhi tried to get Azhar as a United Nations listed terrorist. India was the lone proposer back then. In 2016, India again proposed the listing and it was co-sponsored by UK, US, France. But the move was was blocked by China. In 2017, the US, UK and France moved the proposal but China blocked the move again. The move in February of 2019 saw global support with 14 out of 15 members of UNCS backing the move for the listing of Masood Azhar. The proposal was moved US, UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan. After the Chinese hold in March, France had announced it will be putting a freeze on the assets of Azhar and will raise the issue with the European Union. A joint release by French Foreign, Interior and Finance Ministry said, "We will raise this issue with our European partners with a view to including Masood Azhar on the European Union list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts, based on this decree." Currently, a text has been circulated among all members of the European Union for listing of Azhar as a terrorist under EU jurisdiction. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi terms listing of JeM founder Masood Azhar as 'big victory for India in fight against terrorism

China, which lifted its technical hold on listing JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN, said on Wednesday that it took the decision after it found no objection to the listing proposal by the US, the UK and France following a careful study of the revised materials.

In a huge diplomatic win for India, the United Nations Wednesday designated Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist him.

The 1267 Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council has detailed criteria for the listing procedures.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-envoy-to-un-syed-akbaruddin-speaks-exclusively-to-wion-215115/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China always believes that the relevant work should be carried out in an objective, unbiased and professional manner and based on solid evidence and consensus among all parties, a press release issued by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said.

"On this listing issue, China has been communicating with relevant parties in a constructive and responsible fashion. Recently, relevant countries revised and re-submitted the materials for the listing proposal to the 1267 Committee. After careful study of the revised materials and taking into consideration the opinions of relevant parties concerned, China does not have an objection to the listing proposal," he said.

"The proper settlement of the above-mentioned issue again shows that in international counter-terrorism cooperation, we have to uphold the rules and procedures of relevant UN body, follow the principle of mutual respect, resolve differences and build consensus through dialogue, and prevent politicising technical issues," he said.

"I would like to stress that Pakistan has made enormous contributions to fighting terrorism, which deserves the full recognition of the international community. China will continue firmly support Pakistan's efforts to combat terrorism and extremist forces," Geng said.

China, which lifted its technical hold on listing JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN, said on Wednesday that it took the decision after it found no objection to the listing proposal by the US, the UK and France following a careful study of the revised materials.

China, which lifted its technical hold on listing JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN, said on Wednesday that it took the decision after it found no objection to the listing proposal by the US, the UK and France following a careful study of the revised materials. In a huge diplomatic win for India, the United Nations Wednesday designated Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist him. The 1267 Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council has detailed criteria for the listing procedures. China always believes that the relevant work should be carried out in an objective, unbiased and professional manner and based on solid evidence and consensus among all parties, a press release issued by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said. "On this listing issue, China has been communicating with relevant parties in a constructive and responsible fashion. Recently, relevant countries revised and re-submitted the materials for the listing proposal to the 1267 Committee. After careful study of the revised materials and taking into consideration the opinions of relevant parties concerned, China does not have an objection to the listing proposal," he said. "The proper settlement of the above-mentioned issue again shows that in international counter-terrorism cooperation, we have to uphold the rules and procedures of relevant UN body, follow the principle of mutual respect, resolve differences and build consensus through dialogue, and prevent politicising technical issues," he said. "I would like to stress that Pakistan has made enormous contributions to fighting terrorism, which deserves the full recognition of the international community. China will continue firmly support Pakistan's efforts to combat terrorism and extremist forces," Geng said.

Found no objection to list Azhar after studying revised materials: China

In a major diplomatic victory for India, Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar has finally been listed as an international terrorist by the United Nation Security Council's (UNSC) 1267 committee. This became possible after China, one of the five permanent members of the UNSC, removed its hold on the listing of Azhar.

In the aftermath of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack that killed more 40 Indian security personnel, US along with France and UK had moved a proposal for listing of Masood Azhar. But on March 13, the day of the deadline for the listing of Azhar, China had put a hold, citing more time to understand the issue.

Azhar's JeM is responsible for Parliament, 2016 Pathankot and 2019 Pulwama attacks.

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Impact of UNSC listing

Now that Masood Azhar has been listed as a global terrorist, he will be put under a travel and arms embargo.

An assets freeze under the Sanctions Committee requires that all states freeze without delay the funds and other financial assets or economic resources of designated individuals and entities. The Jaish-e-Muhammad is already a proscribed organisation.

The travel ban entails preventing the entry into or transit by all states through their territories by designated individuals.

Under the arms embargo, all states are required to prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale and transfer from their territories or by their nationals outside their territories, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, spare parts, and technical advice, assistance, or training related to military activities, to designated individuals and entities.

Global support for listing of Masood Azhar

India has been, for a decade, trying to list Azhar as an international terrorist. It was in 2009 that New Delhi first hoped to list Azhar as a United Nations listed terrorist. It was a lone proposer back then. In 2016, India again proposed the listing and it was co-sponsored by UK, US, France but the proposal was blocked by China. The year 2017 saw the US, the UK and France moving the proposal but China blocked the move again. The move in February of 2019 saw global support with 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backing the move for the listing of Masood Azhar. The proposal was moved the US, the UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan.

After the Chinese hold in March, France had announced it will be putting a freeze on the assets of Azhar and will raise the issue with the European Union. A joint release by French foreign, interior and finance ministries said, "We will raise this issue with our European partners with a view to including Masood Azhar on the European Union list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts, based on this decree."

Listing 20 years after hijacking of IC-814

The listing of Masood Azhar comes 20 years after he was released when Pakistan-based terrorist hijacked Indian Airlines Flight 814 and took it to Taliban controlled Kandahar. The motive of the hijack was to not only get the release of Azhar but also other terrorists. All the released terrorists found safe houses in Pakistan and in years to follow masterminded many terror attacks in India and the killing of South Asia Bureau Chief of The Wall Street Journal, Daniel Pearl.

In a major diplomatic victory for India, Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar has finally been listed as an international terrorist by the United Nation Security Council's (UNSC) 1267 committee.

In a major diplomatic victory for India, Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar has finally been listed as an international terrorist by the United Nation Security Council's (UNSC) 1267 committee. This became possible after China, one of the five permanent members of the UNSC, removed its hold on the listing of Azhar. In the aftermath of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack that killed more 40 Indian security personnel, US along with France and UK had moved a proposal for listing of Masood Azhar. But on March 13, the day of the deadline for the listing of Azhar, China had put a hold, citing more time to understand the issue. Azhar's JeM is responsible for Parliament, 2016 Pathankot and 2019 Pulwama attacks. Impact of UNSC listing Now that Masood Azhar has been listed as a global terrorist, he will be put under a travel and arms embargo. An assets freeze under the Sanctions Committee requires that all states freeze without delay the funds and other financial assets or economic resources of designated individuals and entities. The Jaish-e-Muhammad is already a proscribed organisation. The travel ban entails preventing the entry into or transit by all states through their territories by designated individuals. Under the arms embargo, all states are required to prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale and transfer from their territories or by their nationals outside their territories, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, spare parts, and technical advice, assistance, or training related to military activities, to designated individuals and entities. Global support for listing of Masood Azhar India has been, for a decade, trying to list Azhar as an international terrorist. It was in 2009 that New Delhi first hoped to list Azhar as a United Nations listed terrorist. It was a lone proposer back then. In 2016, India again proposed the listing and it was co-sponsored by UK, US, France but the proposal was blocked by China. The year 2017 saw the US, the UK and France moving the proposal but China blocked the move again. The move in February of 2019 saw global support with 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backing the move for the listing of Masood Azhar. The proposal was moved the US, the UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan. After the Chinese hold in March, France had announced it will be putting a freeze on the assets of Azhar and will raise the issue with the European Union. A joint release by French foreign, interior and finance ministries said, "We will raise this issue with our European partners with a view to including Masood Azhar on the European Union list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts, based on this decree." Listing 20 years after hijacking of IC-814 The listing of Masood Azhar comes 20 years after he was released when Pakistan-based terrorist hijacked Indian Airlines Flight 814 and took it to Taliban controlled Kandahar. The motive of the hijack was to not only get the release of Azhar but also other terrorists. All the released terrorists found safe houses in Pakistan and in years to follow masterminded many terror attacks in India and the killing of South Asia Bureau Chief of The Wall Street Journal, Daniel Pearl.

Masood Azhar named global terrorist: How it will affect the JeM chief?

After years of efforts by India, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/jem-chief-masood-azhar-designated-as-a-global-terrorist-in-un-sanctions-list-215076">Masood Azhar</a> has been designated a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/masood-azhar-named-global-terrorist-how-it-will-affect-the-jem-chief-215077">global terrorist by the UN </a>under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 1267.

Azhar’s JeM was behind the Pulwama terrorist attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in February.&nbsp;

China had put a hold in March on a fresh proposal by the US, UK and France to impose a ban on the chief of the JeM which claimed responsibility for the deadly Pulwama terror attack.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-envoy-to-un-syed-akbaruddin-speaks-exclusively-to-wion-215115/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Three UNSC members — US, UK and France — have been pursuing the case with China over the last two months, while New Delhi has also been engaging separately with Beijing.&nbsp;

India has always maintained that China should list Azhar since he is the leader of a terrorist group that has already been proscribed by the UN. &nbsp;

China’s turnaround came after Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale’s visit to Beijing last week, where India shared details of all the evidence on Masood Azhar, including links to the February 14 Pulwama attack for which the JeM had claimed responsibility.&nbsp;

During his visit, Gokhale met Chinese officials including Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.&nbsp;

&nbsp;A statement from India's external affairs ministry said, "We have shared with China all pieces of evidence of terrorist activities of Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar. It is now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other authorized bodies of the U.N. to take a decision on the listing of Masood Azhar. "

The British High Commissioner Sir Dominic Asquith last week speaking to reporters expressed optimism on the listing of Azhar and said, "We are strong supporters of listing of Masood Azhar for a decade. So that we will get to that conclusion shortly."&nbsp;

After years of efforts by India, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar has been designated a global terrorist by the UN under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 1267.

After years of efforts by India, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar has been designated a global terrorist by the UN under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 1267. Azhar’s JeM was behind the Pulwama terrorist attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in February. China had put a hold in March on a fresh proposal by the US, UK and France to impose a ban on the chief of the JeM which claimed responsibility for the deadly Pulwama terror attack. Three UNSC members — US, UK and France — have been pursuing the case with China over the last two months, while New Delhi has also been engaging separately with Beijing. India has always maintained that China should list Azhar since he is the leader of a terrorist group that has already been proscribed by the UN. China’s turnaround came after Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale’s visit to Beijing last week, where India shared details of all the evidence on Masood Azhar, including links to the February 14 Pulwama attack for which the JeM had claimed responsibility. During his visit, Gokhale met Chinese officials including Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. A statement from India's external affairs ministry said, "We have shared with China all pieces of evidence of terrorist activities of Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar. It is now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other authorized bodies of the U.N. to take a decision on the listing of Masood Azhar. " The British High Commissioner Sir Dominic Asquith last week speaking to reporters expressed optimism on the listing of Azhar and said, "We are strong supporters of listing of Masood Azhar for a decade. So that we will get to that conclusion shortly."

China changed its stance on Masood Azhar after Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale's visit

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-optimistic-masood-azhar-will-be-listed-as-an-international-terrorist-213730">listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar </a>as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front.

"At present, the relevant consultations are under way in the 1267 Committee (of United Nations Security Council). Within the framework. And positive progress has been made," said Geng Shuang, spokesperson of China's foreign ministry.

"We have stated our position many times. I won't go detail here. I just want to emphasise that, first, China supports the issue of listing, which should be resolved through political consultation within the framework of the 1267 Committee. I think that is also the consensus of the overwhelming majority of the members of the Council," the spokesperson further added.

WION had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-may-remove-hold-on-masood-azhars-terror-listing-at-un-sources-to-wion-214289">reported on Sunday</a> that China is willing to soften its stand on listing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-evidence-on-masood-azhar-jaish-shared-with-china-will-continue-to-pursue-all-avenues-india-212579">Masood Azhar</a> and could soon announce his listing. The remarks from China comes just few days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the country.

China had put a hold on the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist on March 13 at the 1267 sanctions committee of the UNSC.

Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in China last Monday and gave evidence regarding involvement of Masood Azhar's Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) in terror attacks in India. During his visit, he met Chinese officials including Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.

"We have shared with China all evidence of terrorist activities of JeM and its leader Masood Azhar. It is now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other authorized bodies of the UN to take a decision on the listing of Masood Azhar," India's external affairs ministry said.

Azhar's JeM was responsible for the February 14 Pulwama attack in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The US, along with UK and France had proposed listing Masood Azhar as an international terrorist in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack.

A United Nations Security Council resolution was also proposed by the US at UNSC after China's hold on listing in March. The listing of Azhar at UNSC will put travel, an arms embargo and freeze his assets which will impact his activities.

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front.

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front. "At present, the relevant consultations are under way in the 1267 Committee (of United Nations Security Council). Within the framework. And positive progress has been made," said Geng Shuang, spokesperson of China's foreign ministry. "We have stated our position many times. I won't go detail here. I just want to emphasise that, first, China supports the issue of listing, which should be resolved through political consultation within the framework of the 1267 Committee. I think that is also the consensus of the overwhelming majority of the members of the Council," the spokesperson further added. WION had reported on Sunday that China is willing to soften its stand on listing of Masood Azhar and could soon announce his listing. The remarks from China comes just few days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the country. China had put a hold on the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist on March 13 at the 1267 sanctions committee of the UNSC. Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in China last Monday and gave evidence regarding involvement of Masood Azhar's Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) in terror attacks in India. During his visit, he met Chinese officials including Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. "We have shared with China all evidence of terrorist activities of JeM and its leader Masood Azhar. It is now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other authorized bodies of the UN to take a decision on the listing of Masood Azhar," India's external affairs ministry said. Azhar's JeM was responsible for the February 14 Pulwama attack in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The US, along with UK and France had proposed listing Masood Azhar as an international terrorist in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack. A United Nations Security Council resolution was also proposed by the US at UNSC after China's hold on listing in March. The listing of Azhar at UNSC will put travel, an arms embargo and freeze his assets which will impact his activities.

Masood Azhar's terror listing: Huge diplomatic win for India as China says positive progress made

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia&nbsp;held wide-ranging talks with his&nbsp;counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change.

During the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bolivia-sign-eight-memorandum-of-understandings-206624">bilateral talks between both Presidents</a>, Bolivia extended its support for India's membership as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;

"There was an acknowledgement that current membership of UNSC is not reflective of realities of the twenty-first century and President Evo Morales expressed full understanding of India's aspiration to be a member of UNSC. He extended support for India's membership as a non-permanent member," Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Exrernal Affairs said on Saturday.

Bolivian President also condemned the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"Bolivian President strongly condemned Pulwama attack and denounced cross border terrorism. There was an assertion that terrorism in all its forms constitutes a threat to humanity," Singh added in the press briefing in the national capital.

Bolivia-India also called for early finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, Singh informed.

The President is on a three-nation tour to strengthen India's ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy. He was in Croatia from March 25-28.&nbsp;

On March 30, he will head to Chile to hold talks with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Piera.

President's visit to Bolivia was the first-ever presidential-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, "In first ever Presidential level visit between India and Bolivia wide ranging discussions were held between #PresidentKovind and Bolivian President Evo Morales on political economic and cultural issues including space, mining, IT, pharmaceutical and traditional medicines".

Kovind, during his three-day visit to Bolivia, will also participate in an India-Bolivia business meet, address university students and interact with the Indian community.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia held wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change.

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia held wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change. During the bilateral talks between both Presidents, Bolivia extended its support for India's membership as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council. "There was an acknowledgement that current membership of UNSC is not reflective of realities of the twenty-first century and President Evo Morales expressed full understanding of India's aspiration to be a member of UNSC. He extended support for India's membership as a non-permanent member," Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Exrernal Affairs said on Saturday. Bolivian President also condemned the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir. "Bolivian President strongly condemned Pulwama attack and denounced cross border terrorism. There was an assertion that terrorism in all its forms constitutes a threat to humanity," Singh added in the press briefing in the national capital. Bolivia-India also called for early finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, Singh informed. The President is on a three-nation tour to strengthen India's ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy. He was in Croatia from March 25-28. On March 30, he will head to Chile to hold talks with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Piera. President's visit to Bolivia was the first-ever presidential-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, "In first ever Presidential level visit between India and Bolivia wide ranging discussions were held between #PresidentKovind and Bolivian President Evo Morales on political economic and cultural issues including space, mining, IT, pharmaceutical and traditional medicines". Kovind, during his three-day visit to Bolivia, will also participate in an India-Bolivia business meet, address university students and interact with the Indian community. (With inputs from agencies)

Bolivia supports India's bid for non-permanent member in UN Security Council

Dogon hunters killed more than 100 people in an attack on a Fulani village in central Mali on Saturday, local officials said, as a UN delegation visited the country.

"The new toll is 115 dead" in the village of Ogossagou, said Cheick Harouna Sankare, mayor of neighbouring Ouenkoro. "It is a massacre of Fulani civilians by traditional Dogon hunters."

Earlier he had reported the deaths of around 50 people, but warned the toll could rise because many people were unaccounted for. Those bodies had now been found, he said.

The victims were shot or hacked to death with machetes, said a security source. Malian troops with local support arrived at the site in the afternoon, and they gave a toll of at least 105, a security source added.

Boubacar Kane, the governor of Bankass district, which covers Ogossagou, said the "provisional toll" was 115. Survivors had accused traditional hunters of carrying out the attack, he added.

The attack was launched at dawn Saturday in the village near the border with Burkina Faso, said several sources. The district has been the scene of frequent inter-communal violence.

Two witnesses questioned separately by AFP said hunters had burned down nearly all the huts in the village.

The massacre took place as a delegation from the United Nations Security Council visited the Sahel region to assess the jihadist threat there.

The UN mission in Mali, MINUSMA, said in a Twitter message it "firmly condemns such attacks against civilians" and called on the Malian authorities to investigate.

The UN said the visiting ambassadors from the Security Council countries met on Saturday with Mali's Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga and discussed with him the volatile situation in the centre of the country.

Land disputes&nbsp;

While local attacks are fuelled by accusations of grazing cattle on Dogon land and disputes over access to land and water, the area is also troubled by jihadist influence.

In the past four years, jihadist fighters have emerged as a threat in central Mali. A group led by radical Islamist preacher Amadou Koufa has recruited mainly from the Muslim Fulani community.

Since then, there have been repeated clashes between the nomadic Fulani herders and the Dogon ethnic group.

Last year that violence cost the lives of 500 civilians, according to UN figures.

In January, Dogon hunters were blamed for the killing of 37 people in another Fulani village, Koulogon, in the same region.

The Fulani have repeatedly called for more protection from the authorities. The government in Bamako has denied their accusations it turns a blind eye to -- or even encourages -- Dogon attacks on the Fulani.

Once considered a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa, Mali in recent years has been dogged by a coup, civil war and Islamist terrorism.

Extremists linked to Al-Qaeda took control of the desert north in early 2012, but were largely driven out in a French-led military operation launched in January 2013.

In June 2015, Mali's government signed a peace agreement with some armed groups, but the jihadists remain active, and large tracts of the country remain lawless.

Despite the presence of UN peacekeepers, a strong French military contingent and the creation of a five-nation military force in the region, jihadist violence has not abated.

Dogon hunters killed more than 100 people in an attack on a Fulani village in central Mali on Saturday, local officials said, as a UN delegation visited the country.

Dogon hunters killed more than 100 people in an attack on a Fulani village in central Mali on Saturday, local officials said, as a UN delegation visited the country. "The new toll is 115 dead" in the village of Ogossagou, said Cheick Harouna Sankare, mayor of neighbouring Ouenkoro. "It is a massacre of Fulani civilians by traditional Dogon hunters." Earlier he had reported the deaths of around 50 people, but warned the toll could rise because many people were unaccounted for. Those bodies had now been found, he said. The victims were shot or hacked to death with machetes, said a security source. Malian troops with local support arrived at the site in the afternoon, and they gave a toll of at least 105, a security source added. Boubacar Kane, the governor of Bankass district, which covers Ogossagou, said the "provisional toll" was 115. Survivors had accused traditional hunters of carrying out the attack, he added. The attack was launched at dawn Saturday in the village near the border with Burkina Faso, said several sources. The district has been the scene of frequent inter-communal violence. Two witnesses questioned separately by AFP said hunters had burned down nearly all the huts in the village. The massacre took place as a delegation from the United Nations Security Council visited the Sahel region to assess the jihadist threat there. The UN mission in Mali, MINUSMA, said in a Twitter message it "firmly condemns such attacks against civilians" and called on the Malian authorities to investigate. The UN said the visiting ambassadors from the Security Council countries met on Saturday with Mali's Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga and discussed with him the volatile situation in the centre of the country. Land disputes While local attacks are fuelled by accusations of grazing cattle on Dogon land and disputes over access to land and water, the area is also troubled by jihadist influence. In the past four years, jihadist fighters have emerged as a threat in central Mali. A group led by radical Islamist preacher Amadou Koufa has recruited mainly from the Muslim Fulani community. Since then, there have been repeated clashes between the nomadic Fulani herders and the Dogon ethnic group. Last year that violence cost the lives of 500 civilians, according to UN figures. In January, Dogon hunters were blamed for the killing of 37 people in another Fulani village, Koulogon, in the same region. The Fulani have repeatedly called for more protection from the authorities. The government in Bamako has denied their accusations it turns a blind eye to -- or even encourages -- Dogon attacks on the Fulani. Once considered a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa, Mali in recent years has been dogged by a coup, civil war and Islamist terrorism. Extremists linked to Al-Qaeda took control of the desert north in early 2012, but were largely driven out in a French-led military operation launched in January 2013. In June 2015, Mali's government signed a peace agreement with some armed groups, but the jihadists remain active, and large tracts of the country remain lawless. Despite the presence of UN peacekeepers, a strong French military contingent and the creation of a five-nation military force in the region, jihadist violence has not abated.

More than 100 killed in Mali massacre as UN visits

The United Nations Security Council's 1267 committee will decide on March 13 whether <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ghost-of-kandahar-how-masood-azhars-release-keeps-haunting-india-200294#the-deadly-kandahar-hijack-200288">Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar</a> should be listed as an international terrorist. (The vote will take place at 3 pm, New York time or 1.30 am on March 14, Indian Standard Time.)&nbsp;

India has urged the UNSC to put Azhar on the UN terror list.&nbsp;

The UN-listed, Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama attack that had left over 40 CRPF personnel dead in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"All members of the UNSC are aware about Jaish-e-Mohammed training camps in Pakistan and about the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammad and his presence in Pakistan. We call upon all members of UNSC to list Masood Azhar as a designated terrorist under 1267 UN Sanctions Committee," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said. &nbsp;

Azhar's listing as an international terrorist will put a freeze on his assets and put him on a global no-flight list. His listing will also help New Delhi point out how Pakistan has been an epicentre of terrorism.

France, along with the United States and the UK, had proposed Azhar's listing in the last week of February. Russia has supported the listing.

Deputy spokesperson of the US State Department Robert Palladino, reacting to Azhar's possible listing, said, "We will continue to work with the sanctions committee to ensure that the list is updated and that it’s accurate."

That leaves <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/responsible-discussions-can-resolve-the-issue-in-a-sustainable-manner-china-on-listing-jem-chief-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-at-unsc-202820">China as New Delhi's only worry</a>.&nbsp;

Beijing has blocked Masood Azhar's listing three times since 2016 when India first called for it.&nbsp;

Asked about Azhar's listing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said on Monday that the matter can only be resolved in a "responsible manner".

"China has all along participated in relevant discussions in a responsible manner and in strict accordance with the rules of procedure and provisions of the 1267 committee. China will continue to communicate and work with relevant parties in a responsible manner so as to properly resolve this matter. Only by making a decision through responsible and serious discussions can we find a lasting solution."

While pressure has been growing on Islamabad — from Washington to Kabul — to act on terrorists, China has been reluctant so far to call out its all-weather ally. The reluctance has been primarily due to economic considerations which include CPEC — the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which provides China with connectivity to west Asia.

The United Nations Security Council's 1267 committee will decide on March 13 whether Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar should be listed as an international terrorist.

The United Nations Security Council's 1267 committee will decide on March 13 whether Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar should be listed as an international terrorist. (The vote will take place at 3 pm, New York time or 1.30 am on March 14, Indian Standard Time.) India has urged the UNSC to put Azhar on the UN terror list. The UN-listed, Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama attack that had left over 40 CRPF personnel dead in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. "All members of the UNSC are aware about Jaish-e-Mohammed training camps in Pakistan and about the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammad and his presence in Pakistan. We call upon all members of UNSC to list Masood Azhar as a designated terrorist under 1267 UN Sanctions Committee," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said. Azhar's listing as an international terrorist will put a freeze on his assets and put him on a global no-flight list. His listing will also help New Delhi point out how Pakistan has been an epicentre of terrorism. France, along with the United States and the UK, had proposed Azhar's listing in the last week of February. Russia has supported the listing. Deputy spokesperson of the US State Department Robert Palladino, reacting to Azhar's possible listing, said, "We will continue to work with the sanctions committee to ensure that the list is updated and that it’s accurate." That leaves China as New Delhi's only worry. Beijing has blocked Masood Azhar's listing three times since 2016 when India first called for it. Asked about Azhar's listing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said on Monday that the matter can only be resolved in a "responsible manner". "China has all along participated in relevant discussions in a responsible manner and in strict accordance with the rules of procedure and provisions of the 1267 committee. China will continue to communicate and work with relevant parties in a responsible manner so as to properly resolve this matter. Only by making a decision through responsible and serious discussions can we find a lasting solution." While pressure has been growing on Islamabad — from Washington to Kabul — to act on terrorists, China has been reluctant so far to call out its all-weather ally. The reluctance has been primarily due to economic considerations which include CPEC — the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which provides China with connectivity to west Asia.

Decision today, India urges UNSC to list Masood Azhar as international terrorist

France will push to designate Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist with its newly-acquired presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) amidst mounting pressure on the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan government to act against terror outfits breeding in his country.

Speaking exclusively to ANI, Ambassador of France to India Alexandre Ziegler said France, like India, has been affected badly by terrorism in the recent past, adding that not designating Masood "just doesn`t make sense."&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yes, we will push for the designation of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist at the United Nations. We have been actually pushing for that for the past two years because there is no meaning in a situation where the leader of a group that has been designated as a terrorist group should not be designated by United Nations. It (not designating Masood as a global terrorist) just doesn’t make sense,"&nbsp;he said.

In 2017, France, supported by the United States and the United Kingdom, had moved a proposal at the UN Sanctions Committee 1267 to get Azhar declared as a "global terrorist", but it was reportedly blocked by China.

Earlier this week, sources had said Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's recent comments on Azhar confirmed that the Pakistan government is in touch with the Jaish chief, thereby strengthening India`s case to put him in the UN Sanctions list.

Meanwhile, Ziegler, while reacting on the pre-emptive airstrikes conducted by the Indian Air Force in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, said France recognises the legitimacy of India to assure its security against cross-border terror.

He also welcomed the release of IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured by Pakistani troops when his MiG 21 was downed after he shot down an F-16 that transgressed into the Indian airspace on February 27.

"Of course we recognise the legitimacy of India to assure its security against cross border terror. We also welcome the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan. Easing tension was also a relief. It was a gesture of restraining and responsibility by both the governments," he said.

Ziegler also acknowledged that the UNSC should recognise the "new balance of power", in response to a question on France backing India`s prospects of becoming a permanent member of the UNSC.

"We are not living in 1945 anymore; we are living in a world where some countries have taken leadership and the new balance of power should be recognised by the security council,"&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

France will push to designate Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist with its newly-acquired presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) amidst mounting pressure on the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan government to act against terror outfits breeding in his country.

France will push to designate Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist with its newly-acquired presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) amidst mounting pressure on the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan government to act against terror outfits breeding in his country. Speaking exclusively to ANI, Ambassador of France to India Alexandre Ziegler said France, like India, has been affected badly by terrorism in the recent past, adding that not designating Masood "just doesn`t make sense." "Yes, we will push for the designation of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist at the United Nations. We have been actually pushing for that for the past two years because there is no meaning in a situation where the leader of a group that has been designated as a terrorist group should not be designated by United Nations. It (not designating Masood as a global terrorist) just doesn’t make sense," he said. In 2017, France, supported by the United States and the United Kingdom, had moved a proposal at the UN Sanctions Committee 1267 to get Azhar declared as a "global terrorist", but it was reportedly blocked by China. Earlier this week, sources had said Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's recent comments on Azhar confirmed that the Pakistan government is in touch with the Jaish chief, thereby strengthening India`s case to put him in the UN Sanctions list. Meanwhile, Ziegler, while reacting on the pre-emptive airstrikes conducted by the Indian Air Force in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, said France recognises the legitimacy of India to assure its security against cross-border terror. He also welcomed the release of IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured by Pakistani troops when his MiG 21 was downed after he shot down an F-16 that transgressed into the Indian airspace on February 27. "Of course we recognise the legitimacy of India to assure its security against cross border terror. We also welcome the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan. Easing tension was also a relief. It was a gesture of restraining and responsibility by both the governments," he said. Ziegler also acknowledged that the UNSC should recognise the "new balance of power", in response to a question on France backing India`s prospects of becoming a permanent member of the UNSC. "We are not living in 1945 anymore; we are living in a world where some countries have taken leadership and the new balance of power should be recognised by the security council," he said.

Will push for designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as global terrorist: France

Pakistan has arrested the son and brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar.&nbsp;

Minister of State for the Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi announced at a press conference Tuesday that Mufti Abdur Rauf, Azhar's brother, and Hammad Azhar, Azhar's son, had been arrested along with 42 other members of terror groups.&nbsp;

Khan Afridi added that a dossier handed over to Pakistan last week by India had had Mufti Abdur Rauf and Hammad Azhar's names in it.

Khan Afridi however said Tuesday's&nbsp;action had not been taken due to any pressure.&nbsp;

He added the crackdown would continue for two weeks and that action&nbsp;against the 44 people arrested would be taken on the basis of evidence.

Khan Afridi said his government's policy is that Pakistan's soil will not be allowed to be used for terror activities against anyone.

The arrests came a day after Pakistan issued a new order easier to&nbsp;implement&nbsp;UN sanctions against individuals and organisations.

Interpreting the order, Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said the order allowed the government to take control of the properties and assets of any banned outfits operating out of Pakistan. Faisal said the order was passed by Prime Minister Imran Khan's cabinet.&nbsp;

Masood Azhar, the big prize India is after, continues to remain a free man.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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 Mahmood Qureshi</a>&nbsp;had on Monday however hinted that Pakistan may not oppose a joint move by the US, Britain and France to list Masood Azhar as a global terrorist in the UN Security Council.

(With inputs from PTI)

Pakistan has arrested the son and brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar. Minister of State for the Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi announced at a press conference Tuesday that Mufti Abdur Rauf, Azhar's brother, and Hammad Azhar, Azhar's son, had been arrested along with 42 other members of terror groups.

Pakistan has arrested the son and brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar. Minister of State for the Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi announced at a press conference Tuesday that Mufti Abdur Rauf, Azhar's brother, and Hammad Azhar, Azhar's son, had been arrested along with 42 other members of terror groups. Khan Afridi added that a dossier handed over to Pakistan last week by India had had Mufti Abdur Rauf and Hammad Azhar's names in it. Khan Afridi however said Tuesday's action had not been taken due to any pressure. He added the crackdown would continue for two weeks and that action against the 44 people arrested would be taken on the basis of evidence. Khan Afridi said his government's policy is that Pakistan's soil will not be allowed to be used for terror activities against anyone. The arrests came a day after Pakistan issued a new order easier to implement UN sanctions against individuals and organisations. Interpreting the order, Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said the order allowed the government to take control of the properties and assets of any banned outfits operating out of Pakistan. Faisal said the order was passed by Prime Minister Imran Khan's cabinet. Masood Azhar, the big prize India is after, continues to remain a free man. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had on Monday however hinted that Pakistan may not oppose a joint move by the US, Britain and France to list Masood Azhar as a global terrorist in the UN Security Council. (With inputs from PTI)

Pakistan arrests Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar's son, brother

India has said that its operation on the terror camps of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Balakot is over but the next step will be to mount diplomatic pressure on an increasingly isolated Islamabad.

Sources told WION, "Our government's position is very clear, we have to make strategy on our own. We have to fight terror on our own. But we have to build pressure on Pakistan to see that focus remains on Pakistan as a state which supports, sponsors and nurtures terrorism"

"If there is subsequent terror attack all options are available for us,'' sources added.

India also made it clear that no negotiations were done for the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan who was captured by Pakistan after it launched strikes on Indian military installation last week.

Sources said, "We made it very clear to all the ambassadors of the P5 countries, that this was non-negotiable matter, we were not asking for consular access, and we expected him back immediately and we believe this was conveyed and Pakistani side very clearly understood."&nbsp;

Sources added, "Pressure was built not only by P5 but by others also, and this was instrumental (in the release) and it should not be attributed to Imran Khan's generous Pathan heart."

On the death of Masood Azhar, chief of JeM, sources dismissed it saying we take such news with a pinch of salt.

India hopes to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council which it believes will send a message that Pakistan is the epicentre of terror in the world.

The deadline for any country to hold technical bar against declaring Azhar as an international terrorist is on March 14, around 1:30 am.

India has said that its operation on the terror camps of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Balakot is over but the next step will be to mount diplomatic pressure on an increasingly isolated Islamabad.

India has said that its operation on the terror camps of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Balakot is over but the next step will be to mount diplomatic pressure on an increasingly isolated Islamabad. Sources told WION, "Our government's position is very clear, we have to make strategy on our own. We have to fight terror on our own. But we have to build pressure on Pakistan to see that focus remains on Pakistan as a state which supports, sponsors and nurtures terrorism" "If there is subsequent terror attack all options are available for us,'' sources added. India also made it clear that no negotiations were done for the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan who was captured by Pakistan after it launched strikes on Indian military installation last week. Sources said, "We made it very clear to all the ambassadors of the P5 countries, that this was non-negotiable matter, we were not asking for consular access, and we expected him back immediately and we believe this was conveyed and Pakistani side very clearly understood." Sources added, "Pressure was built not only by P5 but by others also, and this was instrumental (in the release) and it should not be attributed to Imran Khan's generous Pathan heart." On the death of Masood Azhar, chief of JeM, sources dismissed it saying we take such news with a pinch of salt. India hopes to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council which it believes will send a message that Pakistan is the epicentre of terror in the world. The deadline for any country to hold technical bar against declaring Azhar as an international terrorist is on March 14, around 1:30 am.

Balakot operation over, next step is to mount diplomatic pressure on Pakistan: India

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has written a letter to the United Nations Security Council accusing India of threatening regional security, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Friday, a day after the powerful UN body named Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in a statement condemning the "heinous" Pulwama attack perpetrated by the terror outfit in Jammu and Kashmir.

He also said India is accusing Pakistan of the Pulwama attack without any proof.&nbsp;

"It is with a sense of urgency that I draw your attention to the deteriorating security situation in our region resulting from Indian belligerence and threats of use of force against Pakistan. The situation poses a threat to international peace and security," Qureshi said in the letter addressed to UNSC president Anatolio Ndong Mba.

He alleged that India is blaming Pakistan for the Pulwama attack "to cover up its own operational and policy failures".&nbsp;

On Thursday, in a strong show of international support for India, the UNSC comprising 15 nations, including Pakistan's key ally China, named JeM while condemning in the "strongest terms" the "heinous and cowardly" terror attack in Pulwama and stressed on the need to hold organisers and financiers of such "reprehensible acts" accountable and bring them to justice.

"The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, and urged all States...To cooperate actively with the Government of India and all other relevant authorities in this regard," it said.

In his letter, Qureshi also accused the Indian government of using "water as a weapon".

"The long-standing legal arrangements agreed under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) are thus being imperilled," he said.

India has decided to "stop" the flow of its share of water to Pakistan from rivers under the Indus Water Treaty.&nbsp;

The reiteration to stop the flow of Indus water to Pakistan comes amid mounting Indo-Pak tension over the Pulwama terror strike that has triggered demands for action against the neighbouring country. India has already decided to revoke the Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan and mounted a diplomatic offensive to isolate it in the international community.

Qureshi said Pakistan has offered to cooperate with India if it shares any proof of involvement of Pakistani elements in the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

"Pakistan has offered its cooperation if tangible evidence emerging from credible investigation is shared," he wrote.

India on Tuesday had said, "Disclaiming any link between the terrorist attack and Pakistan is an oft-repeated excuse by Pakistan."

"It is a well-known fact that Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.&nbsp;

Qureshi said India "must refrain from escalating the situation and enter into dialogue with Pakistan" to ensure continued peace and stability in South Asia.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has written a letter to the United Nations Security Council accusing India of threatening regional security, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Friday, a day after the powerful UN body named Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in a statement condemning the "heinous" Pulwama attack perpetrated by the terror outfit in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has written a letter to the United Nations Security Council accusing India of threatening regional security, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Friday, a day after the powerful UN body named Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in a statement condemning the "heinous" Pulwama attack perpetrated by the terror outfit in Jammu and Kashmir. He also said India is accusing Pakistan of the Pulwama attack without any proof. "It is with a sense of urgency that I draw your attention to the deteriorating security situation in our region resulting from Indian belligerence and threats of use of force against Pakistan. The situation poses a threat to international peace and security," Qureshi said in the letter addressed to UNSC president Anatolio Ndong Mba. He alleged that India is blaming Pakistan for the Pulwama attack "to cover up its own operational and policy failures". On Thursday, in a strong show of international support for India, the UNSC comprising 15 nations, including Pakistan's key ally China, named JeM while condemning in the "strongest terms" the "heinous and cowardly" terror attack in Pulwama and stressed on the need to hold organisers and financiers of such "reprehensible acts" accountable and bring them to justice. "The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, and urged all States...To cooperate actively with the Government of India and all other relevant authorities in this regard," it said. In his letter, Qureshi also accused the Indian government of using "water as a weapon". "The long-standing legal arrangements agreed under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) are thus being imperilled," he said. India has decided to "stop" the flow of its share of water to Pakistan from rivers under the Indus Water Treaty. The reiteration to stop the flow of Indus water to Pakistan comes amid mounting Indo-Pak tension over the Pulwama terror strike that has triggered demands for action against the neighbouring country. India has already decided to revoke the Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan and mounted a diplomatic offensive to isolate it in the international community. Qureshi said Pakistan has offered to cooperate with India if it shares any proof of involvement of Pakistani elements in the Pulwama attack. "Pakistan has offered its cooperation if tangible evidence emerging from credible investigation is shared," he wrote. India on Tuesday had said, "Disclaiming any link between the terrorist attack and Pakistan is an oft-repeated excuse by Pakistan." "It is a well-known fact that Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Qureshi said India "must refrain from escalating the situation and enter into dialogue with Pakistan" to ensure continued peace and stability in South Asia.

Pakistan writes to UNSC, accuses India of threatening regional security

Putting all speculations to rest, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin shared a UN Security Council list dating back to 2001 confirming terror organisation <a href="http://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-government-takes-control-of-jem-headquarters-199032">Jaish-e-Mohammed's location as Pakistan</a>.

"May I jog your memories? To all friends who think that @UN Security Council does not know where the Jaish-e-Mohammed is located, my humble submission is that issue was settled way back in 2001," Akbaruddin tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
May I jog your memories ? 
 
To all friends who think that <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Security Council does not know where the Jaish-e-Mohammed is located, my humble submission is that issue was settled way back in 2001. 🙏🏽<a href="https://t.co/V2RrVeWM4j">https://t.co/V2RrVeWM4j</a> <a href="https://t.co/zEttbCV3qx">pic.twitter.com/zEttbCV3qx</a>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1098976410121719808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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JeM, which claimed responsibility for the recent Pulwama terror attack, has been listed as an associated entity of deceased terror mastermind Osama bin Laden in the list.

The October 19, 2001 statement brings attention to paragraph 8 (c) of resolution 1333 (2000) which calls on all states to freeze funds and other financial assets of designated entities, connected to Laden, on the list, in a bid to completely block funding to Laden, who had claimed responsibility for the ghastly 9/11 attacks in the United States.

This comes after the Pakistan Army held a press conference, where its spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-india-blaming-pakistan-without-evidence-says-imran-khan-198266">dismissed his country's involvement in the attack</a>, despite Pakistan-based JeM's claim of responsibility.

India has asserted that since JeM, which is based in Pakistan, had itself claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack, there was no more evidence required.

The United States had, immediately after the attack, called for Pakistan to stop providing support and a safe haven to terrorist organisations in their country, further cementing their stand against terrorism.

Washington, along with other countries, extended support to India in the wake of the February 14 attack which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Putting all speculations to rest, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin shared a UN Security Council list dating back to 2001 confirming terror organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed's location as Pakistan.

Putting all speculations to rest, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin shared a UN Security Council list dating back to 2001 confirming terror organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed's location as Pakistan. "May I jog your memories? To all friends who think that @UN Security Council does not know where the Jaish-e-Mohammed is located, my humble submission is that issue was settled way back in 2001," Akbaruddin tweeted. May I jog your memories ? To all friends who think that @UN Security Council does not know where the Jaish-e-Mohammed is located, my humble submission is that issue was settled way back in 2001. 🙏🏽https://t.co/V2RrVeWM4j pic.twitter.com/zEttbCV3qx — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) February 22, 2019 × JeM, which claimed responsibility for the recent Pulwama terror attack, has been listed as an associated entity of deceased terror mastermind Osama bin Laden in the list. The October 19, 2001 statement brings attention to paragraph 8 (c) of resolution 1333 (2000) which calls on all states to freeze funds and other financial assets of designated entities, connected to Laden, on the list, in a bid to completely block funding to Laden, who had claimed responsibility for the ghastly 9/11 attacks in the United States. This comes after the Pakistan Army held a press conference, where its spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor dismissed his country's involvement in the attack, despite Pakistan-based JeM's claim of responsibility. India has asserted that since JeM, which is based in Pakistan, had itself claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack, there was no more evidence required. The United States had, immediately after the attack, called for Pakistan to stop providing support and a safe haven to terrorist organisations in their country, further cementing their stand against terrorism. Washington, along with other countries, extended support to India in the wake of the February 14 attack which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir.

2001 UNSC list reconfirms Pakistan as JeM's base: Syed Akbaruddin

For the second time in a week, Afghanistan has taken its neighbour Pakistan to United Nations Security Council (UNSC).&nbsp;

Kabul in a letter to UNSC raised the issue of "consistent violations of Afghanistan's territory" by Pakistani forces and has called on the powerful United Nations body to initiate necessary measures to address the matter at hand in an ''effective manner".&nbsp;

In a letter by Deputy Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to United Nation, Nazifullah Salarzai said," the nature of these violations mainly includes persistent shelling of Afghan territory, particularly in districts and villages of Kunar and Nangarhar provinces".&nbsp;

Violations also include Violation of Afghan airspace by Pakistani military aircraft and building of military posts.&nbsp;

Afghanistan said the violations date back to 2012 but have increased in frequency since 2017.&nbsp;

During 2012 to 2017 period, 28,849 artillery shells were fired into Afghanistan by Pakistan resulting in the death of at least 82 people and injuring 187 others.&nbsp;

Since January 1, 2018, &nbsp;the number of violations by Pakistan in Afghanistan stands at 161 which include firing 6025 artillery shells into Afghan territory.

The Afghan government also exposed the policy of the new Pakistan government led by Imran Khan to UNSC. Recalling the September 2018 visit of Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmud Qureishi to Kabul during which Islamabad reiterated its commitment to implement the Afghanistan Pakistan action plan, Salarzai said, "What we have seen is nothing but actions that translate to the continued violation of the action plan".

Afghanistan Pakistan action plan or Afghanistan Pakistan Action plan for peace and solidarity (APAPPS) was agreed by former Pakistan government under Pakistani Prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and the Afghan government for peace between the 2 countries. It also included a commitment to avoid territorial and aerial violations.

Last week Afghanistan wrote a letter to UNSC on Islamabad's engagement with the Taliban and support to terror groups. Kabul had written the letter in the backdrop of Taliban meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad, saying the meet "undermines" the Afghan peace process and "violates Afghanistan's national sovereignty."&nbsp;

Taliban subsequently called off the meet saying they are unable to travel due to US/UN travel restrictions on them.

For the second time in a week, Afghanistan has taken its neighbour Pakistan to United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Kabul in a letter to UNSC raised the issue of "consistent violations of Afghanistan's territory" by Pakistani forces and has called on the powerful United Nations body to initiate necessary measures to address the matter at hand in an ''effective manner".

For the second time in a week, Afghanistan has taken its neighbour Pakistan to United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Kabul in a letter to UNSC raised the issue of "consistent violations of Afghanistan's territory" by Pakistani forces and has called on the powerful United Nations body to initiate necessary measures to address the matter at hand in an ''effective manner". In a letter by Deputy Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to United Nation, Nazifullah Salarzai said," the nature of these violations mainly includes persistent shelling of Afghan territory, particularly in districts and villages of Kunar and Nangarhar provinces". Violations also include Violation of Afghan airspace by Pakistani military aircraft and building of military posts. Afghanistan said the violations date back to 2012 but have increased in frequency since 2017. During 2012 to 2017 period, 28,849 artillery shells were fired into Afghanistan by Pakistan resulting in the death of at least 82 people and injuring 187 others. Since January 1, 2018, the number of violations by Pakistan in Afghanistan stands at 161 which include firing 6025 artillery shells into Afghan territory. The Afghan government also exposed the policy of the new Pakistan government led by Imran Khan to UNSC. Recalling the September 2018 visit of Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmud Qureishi to Kabul during which Islamabad reiterated its commitment to implement the Afghanistan Pakistan action plan, Salarzai said, "What we have seen is nothing but actions that translate to the continued violation of the action plan". Afghanistan Pakistan action plan or Afghanistan Pakistan Action plan for peace and solidarity (APAPPS) was agreed by former Pakistan government under Pakistani Prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and the Afghan government for peace between the 2 countries. It also included a commitment to avoid territorial and aerial violations. Last week Afghanistan wrote a letter to UNSC on Islamabad's engagement with the Taliban and support to terror groups. Kabul had written the letter in the backdrop of Taliban meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad, saying the meet "undermines" the Afghan peace process and "violates Afghanistan's national sovereignty." Taliban subsequently called off the meet saying they are unable to travel due to US/UN travel restrictions on them.

Afghanistan writes to UNSC again on Islamabad, alleges violations by Pakistan forces

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