After China attempted to raise the Kashmir issue at the United Nations Security Council, India's foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said Pakistan misused the UNSC stage through China.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-efforts-to-raise-kashmir-at-un-security-council-crumbled-once-again-274575">Also Read: Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again</a>

"Attempt was made by Pakistan, through a UNSC member, to misuse the platform. The overwhelming&nbsp;majority of UNSC was of the view that UNSC was not the right forum for such issues and it should be discussed bilaterally," foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said.

"In our view, China should seriously reflect on this global consensus, draw the proper lessons and refrain from taking such action in the future," the foreign ministry spokesman added.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-akbaruddin-blasts-pakistan-at-unsc-273439/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There were no takers for Pak's agenda," foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said, adding,"Pakistan is peddling baseless allegations."

In a letter, drafted on behalf of Pakistan, Vietnam and China, the trio tried to rake up the Kashmir issue at the UN high table in order to revive the failed December 2019 bid.

The move however wasn't backed by Russia - &nbsp;a permanent member - &nbsp;with &nbsp;deputy representative of Russia asserting that differences be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration.

In December, Pakistan and China had sought a United Nations Security Council meeting on the Kashmir situation, however, the meeting never materialised.&nbsp;

Interestingly, in UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, didn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16.

While Islamabad has been claiming that UNSC met on August 16 last year and discussed Jammu and Kashmir, UNSC records show, the last such meet happened in 1965.

China and Pakistan's plan to rake up Kashmir at United Nation found no support at United Nation Security Council Consultative informal meet on August 16.

After China attempted to raise the Kashmir issue at the United Nations Security Council, India's foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said Pakistan misused the UNSC stage through China.

After China attempted to raise the Kashmir issue at the United Nations Security Council, India's foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said Pakistan misused the UNSC stage through China. Also Read: Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again "Attempt was made by Pakistan, through a UNSC member, to misuse the platform. The overwhelming majority of UNSC was of the view that UNSC was not the right forum for such issues and it should be discussed bilaterally," foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said. "In our view, China should seriously reflect on this global consensus, draw the proper lessons and refrain from taking such action in the future," the foreign ministry spokesman added. Watch Video: "There were no takers for Pak's agenda," foreign ministry spokesman Ravish Kumar said, adding,"Pakistan is peddling baseless allegations." In a letter, drafted on behalf of Pakistan, Vietnam and China, the trio tried to rake up the Kashmir issue at the UN high table in order to revive the failed December 2019 bid. The move however wasn't backed by Russia - a permanent member - with deputy representative of Russia asserting that differences be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration. In December, Pakistan and China had sought a United Nations Security Council meeting on the Kashmir situation, however, the meeting never materialised. Interestingly, in UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, didn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16. While Islamabad has been claiming that UNSC met on August 16 last year and discussed Jammu and Kashmir, UNSC records show, the last such meet happened in 1965. China and Pakistan's plan to rake up Kashmir at United Nation found no support at United Nation Security Council Consultative informal meet on August 16.

J&K issue: Attempt made by Pakistan through China to misuse UNSC platform, says India

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage.

This time — a fresh letter was drafted on the behalf of Islamabad, Vietnam and Beijing.United Nations has maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

The efforts were meant to revive the failed December 2019 bid to raise Kashmir at the UNSC. The council did not take up a letter by Pakistan last month — after India pushed back strongly with the help of its supporters in the council — mainly France and the US.

Meanwhile — deputy representative of Russia to the UN has also reacted to China's move.

He said and I quote — UNSC discussed Kashmir in closed consultations. Russia firmly stands for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

He also said that Russia is hopeful that differences will be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration.

India slammed the move — asking Islamabad to focus on issues like sheltering terrorists.

The Indian envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that — China got a stinging response when it raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal consultation.

Reports suggest that the Chinese-Pakistani plan was meant to set the stage for Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to the US.

Foreign minister Qureshi has arrived the US for a three-day visit.

Meanwhile — in Kashmir — the valley has brought some slow but gradual signs of normalcy.

Like the release of political detainees, visit of European parliament MPs, the successful conduct of football matches, and the restoration of the internet in Kargil.

While New Delhi is taking notes — that China has raised the issue of Kashmir twice after the Mamallapuram summit between President Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi.

Beijing has also not yielded on any of its core interests apart from siding with Islamabad on major diplomatic fronts.

This when India has reiterated its stance — that Kashmir remains an internal matter.

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage.

Pakistan and its all-weather ally — China has raised the Kashmir issue yet again. For a third time — Beijing tried to spark dialogue at the United Nations security council — in an attempt to embarrass India on the international stage. This time — a fresh letter was drafted on the behalf of Islamabad, Vietnam and Beijing.United Nations has maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. The efforts were meant to revive the failed December 2019 bid to raise Kashmir at the UNSC. The council did not take up a letter by Pakistan last month — after India pushed back strongly with the help of its supporters in the council — mainly France and the US. Meanwhile — deputy representative of Russia to the UN has also reacted to China's move. He said and I quote — UNSC discussed Kashmir in closed consultations. Russia firmly stands for the normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan. He also said that Russia is hopeful that differences will be settled through bilateral efforts based on the 1972 Simla agreement and the 1999 Lahore declaration. India slammed the move — asking Islamabad to focus on issues like sheltering terrorists. The Indian envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said that — China got a stinging response when it raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal consultation. Reports suggest that the Chinese-Pakistani plan was meant to set the stage for Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi's visit to the US. Foreign minister Qureshi has arrived the US for a three-day visit. Meanwhile — in Kashmir — the valley has brought some slow but gradual signs of normalcy. Like the release of political detainees, visit of European parliament MPs, the successful conduct of football matches, and the restoration of the internet in Kargil. While New Delhi is taking notes — that China has raised the issue of Kashmir twice after the Mamallapuram summit between President Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi. Beijing has also not yielded on any of its core interests apart from siding with Islamabad on major diplomatic fronts. This when India has reiterated its stance — that Kashmir remains an internal matter.

Pakistan efforts to raise Kashmir at UN Security Council crumbled once again

The United States on Monday hit out at China and Russia over its reported failure to condemn the Baghdad embassy attack last week.

"Not allowing the United Nations Security Council to issue the most basic of statements underscoring the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises once again calls the council's credibility into question," the United States said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defense-chief-esper-denies-us-troop-pullout-from-iraq-after-leaked-letter-confusion-272596">Also Read: Defense chief Esper denies US troop pullout from Iraq after leaked letter confusion</a>

The US said supporting the &nbsp;1961 Vienna convention did not need to be "controversial or warranted courage."

Last week thousands of protesters and militia fighters demonstrated and then stormed the US embassy in Iraq over a US airstrike in which a US citizen was killed. Qais al-Khazali, leader of the Iranian-backed Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia, and many other senior militia leaders were among the protesters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/qassem-soleimani-funeral-national-mourning-to-last-for-three-days-in-honour-of-west-asias-and-middle-easts-most-powerful-man-272233">In Pics: How people in Iraq mourn death of Qasem Soleimani</a>

President Donald Trump blamed Iran for "orchestrating" the attack on the US embassy in Baghdad.

"Iran killed an American contractor, wounding many. We strongly responded, and always will. Now Iran is orchestrating an attack on the US Embassy in Iraq. They will be held fully responsible," the US president said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraqs-parliament-votes-to-expel-all-5000-us-troops-272384/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Last Friday, amid heightened tensions, the United States assassinated Iran's general Sulemani plunging the region into a crisis.

After the US condemnation of China and Russia claimed that it was not possible to disregard the US drone attack which killed Soleiman.

"The statement was nearly ready, and it was agreed upon, at least with us, with the US," &nbsp;Russian ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia said, however, he added that after the drone attack "it wasn't possible to disregard the whole context."

UN ambassador Zhang Jun dismissed the US statement, asserting that it "firmly supports the protection of the safety of foreign missions in accordance with international law."

"The US unilateral military action has led to drastic changes in (the) regional situation," Zhang Jun said.

Jun added that UNSC should reflect the latest developments of the situation and help prevent escalation of tensions.

The United States on Monday hit out at China and Russia over its reported failure to condemn the Baghdad embassy attack last week. "Not allowing the United Nations Security Council to issue the most basic of statements underscoring the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises once again calls the council's credibility into question," the United States said in a statement.

The United States on Monday hit out at China and Russia over its reported failure to condemn the Baghdad embassy attack last week. "Not allowing the United Nations Security Council to issue the most basic of statements underscoring the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises once again calls the council's credibility into question," the United States said in a statement. Also Read: Defense chief Esper denies US troop pullout from Iraq after leaked letter confusion The US said supporting the 1961 Vienna convention did not need to be "controversial or warranted courage." Last week thousands of protesters and militia fighters demonstrated and then stormed the US embassy in Iraq over a US airstrike in which a US citizen was killed. Qais al-Khazali, leader of the Iranian-backed Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia, and many other senior militia leaders were among the protesters. In Pics: How people in Iraq mourn death of Qasem Soleimani President Donald Trump blamed Iran for "orchestrating" the attack on the US embassy in Baghdad. "Iran killed an American contractor, wounding many. We strongly responded, and always will. Now Iran is orchestrating an attack on the US Embassy in Iraq. They will be held fully responsible," the US president said. Watch Video: Last Friday, amid heightened tensions, the United States assassinated Iran's general Sulemani plunging the region into a crisis. After the US condemnation of China and Russia claimed that it was not possible to disregard the US drone attack which killed Soleiman. "The statement was nearly ready, and it was agreed upon, at least with us, with the US," Russian ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia said, however, he added that after the drone attack "it wasn't possible to disregard the whole context." UN ambassador Zhang Jun dismissed the US statement, asserting that it "firmly supports the protection of the safety of foreign missions in accordance with international law." "The US unilateral military action has led to drastic changes in (the) regional situation," Zhang Jun said. Jun added that UNSC should reflect the latest developments of the situation and help prevent escalation of tensions.

US criticises Russia, China at UN over failure to condemn Baghdad embassy attack

Pakistan and China had sought a United Nations Security Council meeting on the situation in Kashmir, however, the meeting never materialised.&nbsp;

According to reports, Pakistan is to blame itself for the diplomatic disaster.&nbsp;

Pakistan's conflicting messages on relations with India lie at the heart of the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

In a letter dispatched to the UN on December 12, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi claimed that India was unleashing a wave of terror in Kashmir.&nbsp;

China and Pakistan hoped to discuss India's wave of terror at the UNSC.&nbsp;

However, Pakistan government's stance in the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor has left the UNSC in a predicament, as it pushed for the inclusion of the agreement in the UN annual resolution of 2019.&nbsp;

The UN resolution appreciated the agreement between the governments of India and Pakistan to promote visa-free travel to the Kartarpur Sahib.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been beating its chest about the Kartarpur corridor for a long time now.&nbsp;

Islamabad has reportedly considered it as some sort of diplomatic coup, with Mahmood Qureshi even describing it as a 'googly' or a 'masterstroke'.

However, Pakistan government, on one hand, accuses India of deploying missiles in Kashmir and on the other bats for a resolution re-affirming Indo-Pak harmony.&nbsp;

These mixed signals ultimately resulted in the UNSC deciding against holding a meeting on Kashmir.

Pakistan and China had sought a United Nations Security Council meeting on the situation in Kashmir, however, the meeting never materialised. According to reports, Pakistan is to blame itself for the diplomatic disaster.

Pakistan and China had sought a United Nations Security Council meeting on the situation in Kashmir, however, the meeting never materialised. According to reports, Pakistan is to blame itself for the diplomatic disaster. Pakistan's conflicting messages on relations with India lie at the heart of the Kashmir issue. In a letter dispatched to the UN on December 12, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi claimed that India was unleashing a wave of terror in Kashmir. China and Pakistan hoped to discuss India's wave of terror at the UNSC. However, Pakistan government's stance in the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor has left the UNSC in a predicament, as it pushed for the inclusion of the agreement in the UN annual resolution of 2019. The UN resolution appreciated the agreement between the governments of India and Pakistan to promote visa-free travel to the Kartarpur Sahib. Pakistan has been beating its chest about the Kartarpur corridor for a long time now. Islamabad has reportedly considered it as some sort of diplomatic coup, with Mahmood Qureshi even describing it as a 'googly' or a 'masterstroke'. However, Pakistan government, on one hand, accuses India of deploying missiles in Kashmir and on the other bats for a resolution re-affirming Indo-Pak harmony. These mixed signals ultimately resulted in the UNSC deciding against holding a meeting on Kashmir.

Pakistan's diplomatic failure deters UNSC meeting on Kashmir

The United Nations Security Council has set the record straight regarding the August meeting on Kashmir, as not a formal meet.&nbsp;

UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, doesn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16.

While Islamabad has been claiming that UNSC met on August 16 and discussed Jammu and Kashmir, UNSC records show, the last such meet happened in 1965.

The record said: "the following list sets out those items of which the security council was seized that have not been considered by the council at a formal meeting during the period 1 Jan 2016 to 7th Dec 2019....The India Pakistan Question (6th Jan 1948, 5th Nov 1965".

China and Pakistan's plan to rake up Kashmir at United Nation found no support at United Nation Security Council Consultative informal meet on August 16. The Consultative meet happened at the request of China who took up the letter of Pakistani foreign minister in the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

India's permanent envoy to United Nation Syed Akbaruddin after the meet speaking to the press that day said, "Article 370 is internal matter.. these have no external ramifications"

Russia, France, UK and US, backed India at the consultations. The outcome was considered a big diplomatic victory for India as consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have.&nbsp;

A few days ago, China had again planned to rake up Kashmir after Pakistani PM Imran Khan had written to UNSC, but the attempt again failed after it found no support at the body.

The United Nations Security Council has set the record straight regarding the August meeting on Kashmir, as not a formal meet. UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, doesn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16.

The United Nations Security Council has set the record straight regarding the August meeting on Kashmir, as not a formal meet. UNSC's list of items it has considered during the January 2016 to 7th December 2019, doesn't mention any meeting on Kashmir being taken by the body formally on August 16. While Islamabad has been claiming that UNSC met on August 16 and discussed Jammu and Kashmir, UNSC records show, the last such meet happened in 1965. The record said: "the following list sets out those items of which the security council was seized that have not been considered by the council at a formal meeting during the period 1 Jan 2016 to 7th Dec 2019....The India Pakistan Question (6th Jan 1948, 5th Nov 1965". China and Pakistan's plan to rake up Kashmir at United Nation found no support at United Nation Security Council Consultative informal meet on August 16. The Consultative meet happened at the request of China who took up the letter of Pakistani foreign minister in the aftermath of India's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. India's permanent envoy to United Nation Syed Akbaruddin after the meet speaking to the press that day said, "Article 370 is internal matter.. these have no external ramifications" Russia, France, UK and US, backed India at the consultations. The outcome was considered a big diplomatic victory for India as consultations did not lead to any formal meeting which Islamabad was keen to have. A few days ago, China had again planned to rake up Kashmir after Pakistani PM Imran Khan had written to UNSC, but the attempt again failed after it found no support at the body.

UNSC sets the record straight, makes no mention of formal discussion on Kashmir 

Kurdish commander supports German plan. Turkey & Syria even clashed at the UNSC meeting. Watch this video to know more.

Turkey-Kurds conflict: Kurdish commander supports German plan

Understanding United Nations' Financial Woes United Nations is cash-strapped. Secretary-General himself says that U.N. is facing a cash shortage of $230 Million. Remember U.N. owes India a huge debt. It also uses India's peacekeeping forces, but hasn't offered India a permanent membership at the UNSC. This report explains

Gravitas: United Nations is running out of funds

Speaking exclusively to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, India’s envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said that the reason why India sent a young diplomat to answer Imran Khan’s UNGA speech was to reflect a new India and bring to table energy of a young person.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, India’s envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said that the reason why India sent a young diplomat to answer Imran Khan’s UNGA speech was to reflect a new India and bring to table energy of a young person. He also spoke on UNSC reforms, issue of terrorism. WION: India sent a young diplomat Vidisha Maitra to reply to Pakistan using the “right of reply” option. What was the intent behind it? Syed Akbaruddin: You know, we are a country with a tradition, a country with a very consistent approach. We also know Pakistan and its approach very well. So if its focus is on one issue, and this issue with which we are very familiar with, we always field our young diplomats who are confident, who reflect a new India, who have the ability to articulate India’s position in very nuanced manner but also very forcefully. They bring to the table the zest and the energy of the young and an understanding of the issues which is historical in nature. It is a tradition for us to field a young officer to clearly indicate and articulate India’s consistent position. WION: How do see the speech of Pakistani PM from the UNGA podium? Syed Akbaruddin: So, India’s articulation across the UN was on themes that was listed by the President of the General Assembly. If other countries want to stray away from that it is their choice. UN is a place where people work in partnerships. Partnerships can be forged on issues of common interest, not on individual interest. So if Pakistan wants to project an issue of individual interest, this is their choice, they wasted it, as you said. WION: What was PM Modi’s big message from his speech at UNGA? Syed Akbaruddin: Global development is sustainable development. Climate action is a key part of that development. PM Modi has made it clear that India’s ambition levels for sustainable development far exceeded with what was thought of even a decade ago. PM’s mention that from the high target we have already set off in terms of renewable energy of 175 GWs, we are now moving to a target of more than 400 GW. That is considerable, similarly on climate action, on whole range of front we are active, including working with the UN, we have set up Gandhi Solar park. Globally we are trying to work we partners to form a collation for disaster resilient infrastructure, so we are working in multifaceted ways, in different ways as well as doing our focus against climate action in India. Watch video: × WION: India sets record in the number of bilaterals held. Syed Akbaruddin: Never before have we been intensely engaged in a manner that we did during this week. PM had 17 bilateral engagements and number of plurilateral level, we have engaged in leaders levels in an unprecedented manner. For the first time, we have plurilateral meetings of India engaging with regions. It has never been done before. For the first summit between India and CARICOM was held. The CARICOM was, we all are familiar with there cricketing abilities. But there are a lot more commonalities between CARICOM and India. Similarly, Indopacific has become a major issue of political importance. This was the first effort of India engaging with Pacific countries on the sidelines of UNGA. In addition, Foreign Minister Jaishankar engaged in as many as 40+ bilateral meetings and a host of plurilateral meetings—The brick, the SAARC, G4, etc. MoS MEA was engaged with the NAM, the commonwealth, the G77. So I told you it is unprecedented in its intensity, in its expanse, in its focus. It is an expression of India’s willingness, and expansiveness to embrace the world and multilateralism. WION: What were the key takeaways for the world? Syed Akbaruddin: Key takeaway is that India is reaching out to the world in a peaceful and harmonious manner. It is an outreach which is extensive. Its an outreach which is expansive and it is an outreach which is expansive and it is an outreach which is all embracive. WION: How big is the issue of terror at the UN? What is the world doing about it? Syed Akbaruddin: There are two ways. One is the normative way of working towards a normative agreement on the issues of terrorism and that is the convention. But there is action-oriented way and that way has progressed and it has progressed considerably because terrorism is considered antithetical to everything that UN stands for or, countries in UN stand for and they have progressed in many, many practical ways to counter terrorism through UNSC resolutions and resolutions through other bodies. So, it depends on how you see it. Normative efforts have been stalled but practical efforts continue. For example this year, you see it for the first time, an attack on Indian paramilitary troops was condemned by the United Nations. It has never happened before. Similarly, after a period of 10 years, Masood Azhar was listed as a terrorist individual. All these things show on the practical front we are moving ahead. And new areas are emerging and how do we tackle the promotion of hate speech and violent extremism and terrorism through cyberspace. There was a meeting of leaders, where they focused on efforts we need to do to prevent the use of internet and cyberspace for promoting violent extremist narrative. This is a new theme and was led by the king of Jordan and Christchurch call countries and President of France made special mention of India’s participation in this and PM Modi’s interest in this and so this is growing area of convergence. WION: How hopeful are you about UNSC reforms? Syed Akbaruddin: We have to understand that the global situation today is one of great volatility. It is one where things are not being done. The world is changing and it is changing dramatically and exponentially. UNSC has been resistant to change. Organizations that don’t change, may become less and less effective. It is a call for them to take, do they want to be relevant to the issues of the day, to addressing and resolving the primary issues that impact global peace and security or other ways will be found. Contemporary reality has to be adjusted. It is the norm in every segment of life for example, in business, companies dominated 70 or 100 years ago are not dominant today. That is the law of nature, it will happen with time but how it happens, when it happens, the situation may arrive. Crisis always required to change. Today there is a crisis, UNSC can’t act on whole hosts of issues. People are bypassing it. The last big institutional change was on the basis of the cataclysmic event. Change happens, sometimes by chance, it happens in ways you do not understand, but it will happen.

We field young diplomats to articulate new India's position: Syed Akbaruddin speaks to WION on India's right to reply

US has said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-goofs-up-at-unga-calls-pm-modi-indian-president-252548">Pakistan</a> must account for "basic expenses" being given to 26/11 mastermind and UN sanctions terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad had gone to the United Nations Security Council to allow pension of Pakistani rupees 150,000 to Saeed.

Alice Wells, US' Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, said,"Countries are required under the obligations of the listings that for any UN-designated individual that you account for whatever money flow is permitted, such as the family’s expenses of Hafiz Saeed."

Calling Pakistan action to go to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-request-to-disperse-monthly-expenses-for-global-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-gets-unscs-nod-252219">UNSC "counterintuitive"</a> but a "positive step", Alice wells said, "So actually having these submissions indicates a level of transparency and a fulfilment of a key requirement of FATF. So we welcome this step."

The United Nations Security Council's 1267 sanctions committee under which global terrorists are listed has approved Pakistani request to allow "basic expenses" to Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad's request got no objection until the deadline of August 15 at 3 pm New York time leading to approval by UNSC.&nbsp;

Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee".

Pakistan government in its request had said Saeed is the sole supporter of his four member family and is responsible for food, drink and clothing expenses for all the family members. The development came just a day before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan addressed to United Nations General Assembly.

Saeed who worked as an assistant professor in University of engineering technology in Lahore retired in 1999 and was drawing a pension of Pakistani RS 45,700 through Habib Bank. However, his bank account was blocked after UNSC listed him, freezing his assets.

Saeed was put on the UN sanctions list in 2008 after the Mumbai terror attacks. There is a $10 million bounty on Saeed by the US on him. Saeed is currently in jail and faces trial for allegedly being involved in terror financing.

US has said that Pakistan must account for "basic expenses" being given to 26/11 mastermind and UN sanctions terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad had gone to the United Nations Security Council to allow pension of Pakistani rupees 150,000 to Saeed.

US has said that Pakistan must account for "basic expenses" being given to 26/11 mastermind and UN sanctions terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad had gone to the United Nations Security Council to allow pension of Pakistani rupees 150,000 to Saeed. Alice Wells, US' Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, said,"Countries are required under the obligations of the listings that for any UN-designated individual that you account for whatever money flow is permitted, such as the family’s expenses of Hafiz Saeed." Calling Pakistan action to go to UNSC "counterintuitive" but a "positive step", Alice wells said, "So actually having these submissions indicates a level of transparency and a fulfilment of a key requirement of FATF. So we welcome this step." The United Nations Security Council's 1267 sanctions committee under which global terrorists are listed has approved Pakistani request to allow "basic expenses" to Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad's request got no objection until the deadline of August 15 at 3 pm New York time leading to approval by UNSC. Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee". Pakistan government in its request had said Saeed is the sole supporter of his four member family and is responsible for food, drink and clothing expenses for all the family members. The development came just a day before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan addressed to United Nations General Assembly. Saeed who worked as an assistant professor in University of engineering technology in Lahore retired in 1999 and was drawing a pension of Pakistani RS 45,700 through Habib Bank. However, his bank account was blocked after UNSC listed him, freezing his assets. Saeed was put on the UN sanctions list in 2008 after the Mumbai terror attacks. There is a $10 million bounty on Saeed by the US on him. Saeed is currently in jail and faces trial for allegedly being involved in terror financing.

Pakistan must account for basic expenses being given to Hafiz Saeed: US

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/high-drama-at-saarc-meet-as-pakistans-foreign-minister-qureshi-boycotts-jaishankars-statement-252290">Pakistan</a> has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps.

Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-bid-to-internationalise-kashmir-fails-world-leans-on-indias-side-252264">rising tensions between India and Pakistan</a>.

"Pakistan is ready to provide full cooperation to delegates from the P5 countries or diplomats from any other country who wish to visit any of the alleged locations to see for themselves that such Indian allegations are totally baseless," said the Foreign Office in a&nbsp;statement.

Pakistan's invitation to representatives comes as a&nbsp;response to the Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat's statement that Islamabad has recently reactivated the terror camp in Balakot.

"Let me tell you, Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. Obviously, that shows that Balakot was affected and damaged and destroyed. That is why people had got away from there," General Rawat had said while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He was responding to questions on whether there were new terror launch pads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"It highlights that some action had been taken by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot and now they have got the people back there," Rawat added.

On February 27 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into <a href="wionews.com/world/pakistan-called-out-by-us-for-staying-mum-over-chinas-treatment-of-muslims-252323">Pakistan</a> to bomb a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Since then,&nbsp;tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated. It is not the first time that Pakistan has invited foreign delegates and media to visit Pakistan to provide facts. Even after the IAF's Balakot strike, Pakistan had taken representatives of some Islamabad-based international media houses and foreign diplomats to the area.&nbsp;

Pakistan has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps. Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

Pakistan has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps. Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about rising tensions between India and Pakistan. "Pakistan is ready to provide full cooperation to delegates from the P5 countries or diplomats from any other country who wish to visit any of the alleged locations to see for themselves that such Indian allegations are totally baseless," said the Foreign Office in a statement. Pakistan's invitation to representatives comes as a response to the Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat's statement that Islamabad has recently reactivated the terror camp in Balakot. "Let me tell you, Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. Obviously, that shows that Balakot was affected and damaged and destroyed. That is why people had got away from there," General Rawat had said while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He was responding to questions on whether there were new terror launch pads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). "It highlights that some action had been taken by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot and now they have got the people back there," Rawat added. On February 27 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Since then, tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated. It is not the first time that Pakistan has invited foreign delegates and media to visit Pakistan to provide facts. Even after the IAF's Balakot strike, Pakistan had taken representatives of some Islamabad-based international media houses and foreign diplomats to the area.

Pakistan invites United Nations Security Council permanent members to inspect terror camps

Pakistan has reached out to the UNSC asking to let UN-designated global terrorist Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed use his bank account for personal expenses. Now UNSC has allowed Saeed to withdraw up to 1.5 lakh Pakistani rupees

WION USA Direct: UNSC relief for Hafiz Saeed

Pakistan has approached United Nations Security Council (UNSC) with a request to release monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

The council has 'approved'&nbsp;the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline.

In a notification dated August 15 the UNSC committee pursuant to resolution 1267, 1989, 2253, said, "The Chair has the honor to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the Committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorize certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, Haji Muhammad Ashraf&nbsp;and Zafar Iqbal&nbsp;to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)."

"The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the letter added.

Pakistan in a letter to UN Security Council 1267 Committee has contended that Hafiz Saeed supports a family of four members, as a sole supporter, he is responsible for food, drink and clothes expenses for all family members.

"The Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the United Nations presents Its compliments to the Security Council concerning Jamaat Ud Da'wa and associated Individuals, groups, undertakings and entities, and has the honour to notify the committee, pursuant to paragraph 1(a) of security council resolution 1152(2002) and paragraph 81(a) of resolution 2360(2017), that the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has received a request from a Pakistani citizen Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, who is listed on the list established and maintained by the committee under permanent reference 001.263," the letter stated.

"His bank account was blocked by the government of Pakistan under compliance with UNSC resolution 1267 requesting an asset freeze exemption to access frozen funds In the amount of Pakistani rupees 011,50,000 to cover the necessary basic living expenses for himself and his family," it added.

This development comes despite Pakistan claims that it is taking stringent actions against terrorist.

In May, Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department had booked Hafiz Saeed and top leaders of JuD under charges of terror financing. The authorities have also arrested Saeed.

However, India, who has always accused Pakistan of supporting and providing safe haven to terrorists, dismissed the recent arrest of Saeed as a mere "drama".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has approached United Nations Security Council (UNSC) with a request to release monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

Pakistan has approached United Nations Security Council (UNSC) with a request to release monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. The council has 'approved' the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline. In a notification dated August 15 the UNSC committee pursuant to resolution 1267, 1989, 2253, said, "The Chair has the honor to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the Committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorize certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, Haji Muhammad Ashraf and Zafar Iqbal to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)." "The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the letter added. Pakistan in a letter to UN Security Council 1267 Committee has contended that Hafiz Saeed supports a family of four members, as a sole supporter, he is responsible for food, drink and clothes expenses for all family members. "The Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the United Nations presents Its compliments to the Security Council concerning Jamaat Ud Da'wa and associated Individuals, groups, undertakings and entities, and has the honour to notify the committee, pursuant to paragraph 1(a) of security council resolution 1152(2002) and paragraph 81(a) of resolution 2360(2017), that the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has received a request from a Pakistani citizen Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, who is listed on the list established and maintained by the committee under permanent reference 001.263," the letter stated. "His bank account was blocked by the government of Pakistan under compliance with UNSC resolution 1267 requesting an asset freeze exemption to access frozen funds In the amount of Pakistani rupees 011,50,000 to cover the necessary basic living expenses for himself and his family," it added. This development comes despite Pakistan claims that it is taking stringent actions against terrorist. In May, Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department had booked Hafiz Saeed and top leaders of JuD under charges of terror financing. The authorities have also arrested Saeed. However, India, who has always accused Pakistan of supporting and providing safe haven to terrorists, dismissed the recent arrest of Saeed as a mere "drama".

Pak approaches UNSC to allow release of monthly expenses for Hafiz Saeed, committee allows request

Pak pleads UNSC to allow Hafiz Saeed to withdraw money for basic needs. Watch video to know more.

Pak pleads UNSC to allow Hafiz Saeed to withdraw money for basic needs

Pakistan requested the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding the release of monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-approaches-unsc-to-allow-release-of-monthly-expenses-for-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-committee-allows-request-252107">terrorist Hafiz Saeed</a>.

The council has 'approved' the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-pleads-unsc-to-allow-hafiz-saeed-to-withdraw-money-for-basic-needs-252121">Pakistan</a>, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four.

In a letter to the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee, Pakistan has requested an asset freeze exemption for Saeed to access frozen funds and withdraw 1,50,000 Pakistani rupees every month to cover the claimed necessary expenses for himself and his family.

Pakistan in its request stated that it has received a request from Pakistani national Saeed, demanding a freeze exemption on his bank account.

Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions.

In a notification, the UNSC Sanctions Committee said that Pakistani authorities had requested it to authorize certain expenditure to the benefit of Saeed.

"The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter.

Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the notification stated.

Hafiz Saeed, which has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, United Nations, and the European Union is responsible for many terrorist attacks in India including 26/11 attack in which 166 people were killed.

He is also accused of plotting the ghastly 2001 Parliament attack in India.

Both India and the US have repeatedly called for justice to be delivered to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

The UNSC on December 10, 2008, had listed Saeed as being associated with Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Al Qaida for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of acts of activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf or in support of" both entities.

While the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks was arrested in Pakistan on charges related to terror financing, the Islamabad's recent action of approaching the UN to seek help for Saeed tells a different story.

It appears the recent action by Pakistan of booking Saeed was a mere play to save itself from any sanctions by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body.

Pakistan is making weak and fake cases against the proscribed terror outfits knowing well that they do not have legal standing other than to just make a point with the FATF,&nbsp;which is blatantly misleading as evidenced by the nature of the FIRs being filed against the terror groups and their supporters.

India had also labelled Hafiz's latest arrest as mere "drama" and "cosmetic".

The&nbsp;world&nbsp;community then and now has accused Pakistan of providing "sanctuary" to terrorists and providing them with a safe haven to carry out terror activities.

Pakistan requested the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding the release of monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

Pakistan requested the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding the release of monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. The council has 'approved' the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline. Pakistan, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four. In a letter to the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee, Pakistan has requested an asset freeze exemption for Saeed to access frozen funds and withdraw 1,50,000 Pakistani rupees every month to cover the claimed necessary expenses for himself and his family. Pakistan in its request stated that it has received a request from Pakistani national Saeed, demanding a freeze exemption on his bank account. Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions. In a notification, the UNSC Sanctions Committee said that Pakistani authorities had requested it to authorize certain expenditure to the benefit of Saeed. "The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the notification stated. Hafiz Saeed, which has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, United Nations, and the European Union is responsible for many terrorist attacks in India including 26/11 attack in which 166 people were killed. He is also accused of plotting the ghastly 2001 Parliament attack in India. Both India and the US have repeatedly called for justice to be delivered to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The UNSC on December 10, 2008, had listed Saeed as being associated with Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Al Qaida for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of acts of activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf or in support of" both entities. While the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks was arrested in Pakistan on charges related to terror financing, the Islamabad's recent action of approaching the UN to seek help for Saeed tells a different story. It appears the recent action by Pakistan of booking Saeed was a mere play to save itself from any sanctions by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body. Pakistan is making weak and fake cases against the proscribed terror outfits knowing well that they do not have legal standing other than to just make a point with the FATF, which is blatantly misleading as evidenced by the nature of the FIRs being filed against the terror groups and their supporters. India had also labelled Hafiz's latest arrest as mere "drama" and "cosmetic". The world community then and now has accused Pakistan of providing "sanctuary" to terrorists and providing them with a safe haven to carry out terror activities.

Pakistan request to disperse monthly expenses for global terrorist Hafiz Saeed gets UNSC's nod

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

The call was made by Qureshi as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370.

"The Foreign Minister apprised his Bangladeshi counterpart of the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions," a statement by Pakistan Foreign Ministry read.

"The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and discussions," it added.

Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had earlier made it clear that the Indian government`s move on Kashmir was the country`s internal matter.

A similar stance has been maintained by most of the SAARC countries, including Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror. 
&nbsp;

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The call was made by Qureshi as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. "The Foreign Minister apprised his Bangladeshi counterpart of the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions," a statement by Pakistan Foreign Ministry read. "The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and discussions," it added. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France. Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had earlier made it clear that the Indian government`s move on Kashmir was the country`s internal matter. A similar stance has been maintained by most of the SAARC countries, including Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Resolve disputes with India through talks: Bangladesh Foreign Minister tells Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Australian High Commissioner to New Delhi Harinder Sidhu said on Friday that the Indian government's decision to abrogate Article 370 is country's internal matter, and stressed that the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally by New Delhi and Islamabad.

"The Indian government said this is its internal matter. We respect the Indian position on that. Australia's long-held view on Kashmir has been that it should be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan," Sidhu told ANI.

Sidhu expressed hope the region would become stable and peaceful and the economic development would eventuate.

"We do hope as situation proceeds in Kashmir that it will be stable, peaceful and that economic development eventuate. We do hope that both countries act in restraint and consider the safety and security of the people in the process," she added.

Earlier this month, India had announced its decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganise it into two union territories.

Pakistan, with the help of China, approached the United Nations over the issue.

However, the China-Pakistan axis failed at the UNSC closed-door meeting when a majority of the Council members, including Russia, refused to take up the Kashmir matter and rejected the Chinese position.

China and Pakistan stood isolated after the other members refused to endorse their position.

Australian High Commissioner to New Delhi Harinder Sidhu said on Friday that the Indian government's decision to abrogate Article 370 is country's internal matter, and stressed that the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally by New Delhi and Islamabad.

Australian High Commissioner to New Delhi Harinder Sidhu said on Friday that the Indian government's decision to abrogate Article 370 is country's internal matter, and stressed that the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally by New Delhi and Islamabad. "The Indian government said this is its internal matter. We respect the Indian position on that. Australia's long-held view on Kashmir has been that it should be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan," Sidhu told ANI. Sidhu expressed hope the region would become stable and peaceful and the economic development would eventuate. "We do hope as situation proceeds in Kashmir that it will be stable, peaceful and that economic development eventuate. We do hope that both countries act in restraint and consider the safety and security of the people in the process," she added. Earlier this month, India had announced its decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganise it into two union territories. Pakistan, with the help of China, approached the United Nations over the issue. However, the China-Pakistan axis failed at the UNSC closed-door meeting when a majority of the Council members, including Russia, refused to take up the Kashmir matter and rejected the Chinese position. China and Pakistan stood isolated after the other members refused to endorse their position.

Abrogation of Article-370 is India's internal matter: Aussie envoy Harinder Sidhu

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-backs-india-on-abrogation-of-article-370-246235">external affairs minister S Jaishankar</a> who is on a two-day India visit to Moscow held "intensive and focused" bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in the Russian capital during which he briefed him about abrogation of Article 370.

Speaking after the meeting at a joint briefing, India's external affairs minister Jaishankar said: "I took the opportunity to brief foreign minister Lavrov on recent legislative changes which had happened with respect to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and on this matter I definitely saw full understanding on part of Russia that this was an internal matter and our issues with Pakistan should be discussed bilaterally."

Russia was the first permanent five(P-5) representative of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-moscow-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-slams-pakistan-for-supporting-terror-246110">United Nation Security Council(UNSC) </a>to back New Delhi's August 5th decision to remove special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The visiting Indian minister discussed the upcoming visit of PM Modi to Vladivostok for the eastern economic forum(EEF) next week and the annual India-Russia summit. Military technical cooperation will be one of the focus areas when PM Modi meets Russian President Putin.

"Both of us were satisfied with the state of preparations and we expect good outcomes from Vladivostok," India's external affairs minister added.

"Our attention is on preparations for Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Russia&nbsp;where he will hold talks with President Putin and attend the fifth Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok as a guest of honor. We discussed in detail the agenda of the meeting and agreed that we are moving in the right direction." Sergey Lavrov said.

Both sides covered a number of regional and global issues including the situation in the Middle-East and Afghanistan.

Defence remains one of the main pillars of India-Russia ties. Last year during the annual summit which alternates between the two countries, the S-400 deal was announced.

Earlier, there were issues related to the advance payment of S-400 missile defence system which has been settled between the two countries. The S-400 timetable on delivery of the system to India has been proceeding according to schedule.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar who is on a two-day India visit to Moscow held "intensive and focused" bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in the Russian capital during which he briefed him about abrogation of Article 370.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar who is on a two-day India visit to Moscow held "intensive and focused" bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in the Russian capital during which he briefed him about abrogation of Article 370. Speaking after the meeting at a joint briefing, India's external affairs minister Jaishankar said: "I took the opportunity to brief foreign minister Lavrov on recent legislative changes which had happened with respect to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and on this matter I definitely saw full understanding on part of Russia that this was an internal matter and our issues with Pakistan should be discussed bilaterally." Russia was the first permanent five(P-5) representative of the United Nation Security Council(UNSC) to back New Delhi's August 5th decision to remove special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The visiting Indian minister discussed the upcoming visit of PM Modi to Vladivostok for the eastern economic forum(EEF) next week and the annual India-Russia summit. Military technical cooperation will be one of the focus areas when PM Modi meets Russian President Putin. "Both of us were satisfied with the state of preparations and we expect good outcomes from Vladivostok," India's external affairs minister added. "Our attention is on preparations for Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Russia where he will hold talks with President Putin and attend the fifth Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok as a guest of honor. We discussed in detail the agenda of the meeting and agreed that we are moving in the right direction." Sergey Lavrov said. Both sides covered a number of regional and global issues including the situation in the Middle-East and Afghanistan. Defence remains one of the main pillars of India-Russia ties. Last year during the annual summit which alternates between the two countries, the S-400 deal was announced. Earlier, there were issues related to the advance payment of S-400 missile defence system which has been settled between the two countries. The S-400 timetable on delivery of the system to India has been proceeding according to schedule.

Jaishankar briefs Russian foreign minister Lavrov on Kashmir; discusses upcoming visit of PM Modi to Russia

&nbsp;Afghanistan has written to United Nation Security Council about Pakistan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fired-over-200-missiles-on-afghanistans-kunar-province-in-last-3-days-244565">continues targetting and shelling </a>the country's province bordering its southern neighbour.

Pakistan on August 19 and 20 fired over 200 rockets into the shelter district of&nbsp;northeastern&nbsp;Kunar province bordering Afghanistan causing massive damage in that area and also resulting in the displacement of the local population.&nbsp;

The letter was written by Afghan envoy to United Nation Adela Raz to Poland Envoy to United Nations&nbsp;Joanna Wronecka&nbsp;on August 22.

The letter says, "Afghan government calls on the United Nation Security Council to take necessary measures and actions to bring about an end to the violations identified"

It further added, "Should be grateful if this letter of complaint on Pakistan's continued activities is circulated as an official document of the Security Council".

The violation of Afghan territory continued despite Kabul informing Pakistan through diplomatic channel to cease the provocative activities.&nbsp;

The development comes even as Islamabad using the support of its ally China tried to rake up Kashmir at UNSC earlier this month in the backdrop of New Delhi's internal decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

This is not the first time Afghans have written to the UN. In February this year, Afghanistan had complained to UNSC on Islamabad's engagement with the Taliban and its support to terror groups.&nbsp;Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan, irking Kabul. After approaching the UNSC, the meeting was cancelled though interestingly the announcement came from the Taliban.

Afghanistan has written to United Nation Security Council about Pakistan's continues targetting and shelling the country's province bordering its southern neighbour.

Afghanistan has written to United Nation Security Council about Pakistan's continues targetting and shelling the country's province bordering its southern neighbour. Pakistan on August 19 and 20 fired over 200 rockets into the shelter district of northeastern Kunar province bordering Afghanistan causing massive damage in that area and also resulting in the displacement of the local population. The letter was written by Afghan envoy to United Nation Adela Raz to Poland Envoy to United Nations Joanna Wronecka on August 22. The letter says, "Afghan government calls on the United Nation Security Council to take necessary measures and actions to bring about an end to the violations identified" It further added, "Should be grateful if this letter of complaint on Pakistan's continued activities is circulated as an official document of the Security Council". The violation of Afghan territory continued despite Kabul informing Pakistan through diplomatic channel to cease the provocative activities. The development comes even as Islamabad using the support of its ally China tried to rake up Kashmir at UNSC earlier this month in the backdrop of New Delhi's internal decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. This is not the first time Afghans have written to the UN. In February this year, Afghanistan had complained to UNSC on Islamabad's engagement with the Taliban and its support to terror groups. Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan, irking Kabul. After approaching the UNSC, the meeting was cancelled though interestingly the announcement came from the Taliban.

Afghanistan writes to UNSC on Pakistan shelling its border province; asks for action

The Sri Lankan President's office has contradicted the statement attributed to President Maithripala Sirisena <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/qureshi-dials-up-swedens-fm-who-asks-him-to-engage-bilaterally-with-india-on-kashmir-244827">by Pakistan</a> and issued a statement asserting that it was being misquoted.

The Pakistani High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Shahzad Chaudhary on Tuesday had met President Sirisena at the request of the former to brief him of India's internal decision of August 5&nbsp;to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

A statement issued by the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo said: "President acknowledged that Jammu and Kashmir is a disputed territory and expressed his desire that this dispute should be resolved according to wishes of Kashmiris under UNSC resolution. He also offered Sri Lanka's mediation and facilitation of dialogue between Pakistan and India to reactivate the SAARC forum."

The statement was however contradicted by Sri Lankan President's office, who said, "The President stated that both India and Pakistan have excellent friendly relations with Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's interest is to see the growth of regional cooperation and friendship."

"The president did not make any other comment on the issues pertaining to India and Pakistan," Lankan president's office said.

Sri Lanka was one of the first country in the region to call New Delhi's decision as an "internal" issue.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe in a tweet had welcomed the creation of "Ladakh state" which he said will be the "first Indian state with a Buddhist majority".&nbsp;

In a tweet, he had said, "Ladakh will become an Indian State. With 70 per cent of Ladakh’s population being Buddhist it will be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority. Creation of Ladakh and consequential restructuring is India’s internal matter, it is a beautiful region well worth a visit."

Sri Lanka, along with Bangladesh, Maldives and Bhutan have backed India on abrogation of Article 370 calling it an internal decision while Nepal and Afghanistan called Kashmir an India- Pakistan bilateral issue.

The Sri Lankan President's office has contradicted the statement attributed to President Maithripala Sirisena by Pakistan and issued a statement asserting that it was being misquoted.

The Sri Lankan President's office has contradicted the statement attributed to President Maithripala Sirisena by Pakistan and issued a statement asserting that it was being misquoted. The Pakistani High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Shahzad Chaudhary on Tuesday had met President Sirisena at the request of the former to brief him of India's internal decision of August 5 to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. A statement issued by the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo said: "President acknowledged that Jammu and Kashmir is a disputed territory and expressed his desire that this dispute should be resolved according to wishes of Kashmiris under UNSC resolution. He also offered Sri Lanka's mediation and facilitation of dialogue between Pakistan and India to reactivate the SAARC forum." The statement was however contradicted by Sri Lankan President's office, who said, "The President stated that both India and Pakistan have excellent friendly relations with Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's interest is to see the growth of regional cooperation and friendship." "The president did not make any other comment on the issues pertaining to India and Pakistan," Lankan president's office said. Sri Lanka was one of the first country in the region to call New Delhi's decision as an "internal" issue. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe in a tweet had welcomed the creation of "Ladakh state" which he said will be the "first Indian state with a Buddhist majority". In a tweet, he had said, "Ladakh will become an Indian State. With 70 per cent of Ladakh’s population being Buddhist it will be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority. Creation of Ladakh and consequential restructuring is India’s internal matter, it is a beautiful region well worth a visit." Sri Lanka, along with Bangladesh, Maldives and Bhutan have backed India on abrogation of Article 370 calling it an internal decision while Nepal and Afghanistan called Kashmir an India- Pakistan bilateral issue.

We are being misquoted: Sri Lanka president's office on Pak statement on Article 370

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet on Thursday over "statements by US officials on their plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles," according to the request seen by Reuters.

Moscow and Beijing want to convene the 15-member council under the agenda item "threats to international peace and security" and have requested that UN disarmament affairs chief Izumi Nakamitsu brief the body.

The Pentagon said on Monday it had tested a conventionally configured cruise missile that hit its target after more than 500 km (310 miles) of flight, the first such test since the United States pulled out Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF).

US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Mark Esper was asked in a Fox News Channel interview on Wednesday whether the test was aimed at sending a message to China, Russia or North Korea and indicated that the main concern was China.&nbsp;

"We want to make sure that we, as we need to, can deter Chinese bad behaviour by having our capability to be able to strike at intermediate ranges," he said.

Esper said on a visit to Australia this month he was in favour of placing ground-launched, intermediate-range missiles in Asia relatively soon. 
Esper was also asked about a rocket test accident in Russia this month which U.S. officials believe was associated with the Kremlin`s hypersonic cruise missile program.

“They are trying to expand their strategic nuclear arsenal to deal with the United States," he said, adding that all such new weapons would have to be included in any future strategic arms reduction treaty.

"Right now Russia has possibly nuclear-tipped ... INF-range cruise missiles facing toward Europe, and that`s not a good thing,” he said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday the United States was in a position to deploy a new land-based cruise missile in Romania and Poland, a scenario he considered a threat that Moscow would need to respond to.&nbsp;

The United States has said it has no imminent plans to deploy new land-based missiles in Europe.

This week's US test would have been banned under the INF, which prohibited land-based missiles with a range of between 310 and 3,400 miles, reducing the ability of the United States and Russia to launch a nuclear strike at short notice. China was not a party to the INF treaty and has a large arsenal of land-based intermediate-range missiles.

Washington formally withdrew from the landmark 1987 pact with Russia on Aug. 2 after determining that Moscow was violating the treaty, an accusation the Kremlin has denied.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that the US&nbsp;test showed the United States was stoking a new arms race and confrontation, which would have a serious negative impact on regional and global security.&nbsp;

A North Korean spokesman said on Thursday the US&nbsp;test and plans to deploy F-35 jets and offensive military equipment around the Korean peninsula were "dangerous" moves that would "trigger a new Cold War" in the region.&nbsp;

Asked whether he thought it was appropriate for Washington to continue to seek negotiations with Pyongyang after its repeated recent tests of short-range missiles, Esper said the biggest US concern was about North Korea's long-range missiles, tests of which it has frozen since 2017.

"I think you need to take a look at the bigger picture," he said when asked if recent U.S. statements playing down the short-range tests amounted to giving North Korea permission to conduct them.

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet on Thursday over "statements by US officials on their plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles," according to the request seen by Reuters.

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet on Thursday over "statements by US officials on their plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles," according to the request seen by Reuters. Moscow and Beijing want to convene the 15-member council under the agenda item "threats to international peace and security" and have requested that UN disarmament affairs chief Izumi Nakamitsu brief the body. The Pentagon said on Monday it had tested a conventionally configured cruise missile that hit its target after more than 500 km (310 miles) of flight, the first such test since the United States pulled out Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF). US Defense Secretary Mark Esper was asked in a Fox News Channel interview on Wednesday whether the test was aimed at sending a message to China, Russia or North Korea and indicated that the main concern was China. "We want to make sure that we, as we need to, can deter Chinese bad behaviour by having our capability to be able to strike at intermediate ranges," he said. Esper said on a visit to Australia this month he was in favour of placing ground-launched, intermediate-range missiles in Asia relatively soon. Esper was also asked about a rocket test accident in Russia this month which U.S. officials believe was associated with the Kremlin`s hypersonic cruise missile program. “They are trying to expand their strategic nuclear arsenal to deal with the United States," he said, adding that all such new weapons would have to be included in any future strategic arms reduction treaty. "Right now Russia has possibly nuclear-tipped ... INF-range cruise missiles facing toward Europe, and that`s not a good thing,” he said. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday the United States was in a position to deploy a new land-based cruise missile in Romania and Poland, a scenario he considered a threat that Moscow would need to respond to. The United States has said it has no imminent plans to deploy new land-based missiles in Europe. This week's US test would have been banned under the INF, which prohibited land-based missiles with a range of between 310 and 3,400 miles, reducing the ability of the United States and Russia to launch a nuclear strike at short notice. China was not a party to the INF treaty and has a large arsenal of land-based intermediate-range missiles. Washington formally withdrew from the landmark 1987 pact with Russia on Aug. 2 after determining that Moscow was violating the treaty, an accusation the Kremlin has denied. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that the US test showed the United States was stoking a new arms race and confrontation, which would have a serious negative impact on regional and global security. A North Korean spokesman said on Thursday the US test and plans to deploy F-35 jets and offensive military equipment around the Korean peninsula were "dangerous" moves that would "trigger a new Cold War" in the region. Asked whether he thought it was appropriate for Washington to continue to seek negotiations with Pyongyang after its repeated recent tests of short-range missiles, Esper said the biggest US concern was about North Korea's long-range missiles, tests of which it has frozen since 2017. "I think you need to take a look at the bigger picture," he said when asked if recent U.S. statements playing down the short-range tests amounted to giving North Korea permission to conduct them.

Russia, China seek United Nations Security Council meeting on US missile developments

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

Watch WION Speed News, August 22nd, 2019

Watch WION Speed News, August 21th, 2019

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-states-announces-humanitarian-aid-to-afghanistan-worth-125-million-244429"> United States</a> on Tuesday will urge the United Nations Security Council to extend an arms embargo and travel ban on Iran before the measures expire in October, US Special Representative for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-any-external-military-presence-in-gulf-source-of-insecurity-241885"> Iran </a>Brian Hook said during a press briefing on Tuesday. 
 
"We are not far away from the arms embargo expiring and the travel ban lifting ... we believe that the UN Security Council has an important role to play to ensure that the arms embargo and the travel ban are continued, so that will be a discussion today at the UN Security Council," Hook said. 
 
UN Resolution 2231, which the Security Council adopted in July 2015 after signing the international nuclear deal with Iran, set a deadline for the sanctions to end by October 18, 2020.

The United States on Tuesday will urge the United Nations Security Council to extend an arms embargo and travel ban on Iran before the measures expire in October, US Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook said during a press briefing on Tuesday.

The United States on Tuesday will urge the United Nations Security Council to extend an arms embargo and travel ban on Iran before the measures expire in October, US Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook said during a press briefing on Tuesday. "We are not far away from the arms embargo expiring and the travel ban lifting ... we believe that the UN Security Council has an important role to play to ensure that the arms embargo and the travel ban are continued, so that will be a discussion today at the UN Security Council," Hook said. UN Resolution 2231, which the Security Council adopted in July 2015 after signing the international nuclear deal with Iran, set a deadline for the sanctions to end by October 18, 2020.

US to Discuss Extending Iran Arms Embargo, Travel Ban At UNSC Meeting: Special Envoy

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 20th, 2019

Watch WION Speed News, August 19th, 2019

Palki Discusses The Events Of UNSC Closed-door Meeting With India's Permanent Representative At The UN - Syed Akbaruddin.

What transpired at UNSC closed-door meeting: In conversation with Syed Akbaruddin

Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaking exclusively to WION said Pakistan's attempt to raise&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/life-returning-to-normal-in-kashmir-valley-jk-government-244222">Kashmir issue</a> in the world body was its yearly itch.

Last week Akbaruddin had conducted his first-ever press conference at the UN even as&nbsp;Pakistan sought to raise the Kashmir issue after&nbsp;the&nbsp;Indian government scrapped&nbsp;special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Akbaruddin said he felt no hesitation in calling out China and Pakistan over the Jammu and Kashmir issue after China which is a permanent member of the UNSC had called for “closed consultations" with member states on India's move to do away with Article 370 which was ratified by the Indian Parliament.

"There was no mention of Article 370 on Friday," Akbaruddin told WION, adding that the president of the UNSC did not speak at the meeting.

In fact, according to sources, US, France and the Dominican Republic had backed India and didn't support China's call for an open UNSC session. Moreover, US and France blocked any UNSC public statement after the closed session, sources said.

Akbaruddin told WION that&nbsp;during the press conference he gave Pakistani journalists a fair chance to speak and&nbsp;he had acutally&nbsp;planned for a much more difficult time. Akbaruddin declared that he had just ten minutes to prepare for the press briefing.&nbsp;

"We were surprised by the breadth of support at the UNSC," Akbaruddin added.

"No statement made by the UNSC made the loudest statement," Akbaruddin asserted.

During the press conference, Akbaruddin had said that Article 370 was an&nbsp;"internal matter of India" with no external ramifications while making clear&nbsp;that the UNSC had appreciated India’s efforts to restore normalcy in Kashmir.

Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaking exclusively to WION said Pakistan's attempt to raise the Kashmir issue in the world body was its yearly itch.

Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaking exclusively to WION said Pakistan's attempt to raise the Kashmir issue in the world body was its yearly itch. Last week Akbaruddin had conducted his first-ever press conference at the UN even as Pakistan sought to raise the Kashmir issue after the Indian government scrapped special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Akbaruddin said he felt no hesitation in calling out China and Pakistan over the Jammu and Kashmir issue after China which is a permanent member of the UNSC had called for “closed consultations" with member states on India's move to do away with Article 370 which was ratified by the Indian Parliament. "There was no mention of Article 370 on Friday," Akbaruddin told WION, adding that the president of the UNSC did not speak at the meeting. In fact, according to sources, US, France and the Dominican Republic had backed India and didn't support China's call for an open UNSC session. Moreover, US and France blocked any UNSC public statement after the closed session, sources said. Akbaruddin told WION that during the press conference he gave Pakistani journalists a fair chance to speak and he had acutally planned for a much more difficult time. Akbaruddin declared that he had just ten minutes to prepare for the press briefing. "We were surprised by the breadth of support at the UNSC," Akbaruddin added. "No statement made by the UNSC made the loudest statement," Akbaruddin asserted. During the press conference, Akbaruddin had said that Article 370 was an "internal matter of India" with no external ramifications while making clear that the UNSC had appreciated India’s efforts to restore normalcy in Kashmir.

No mention of Article 370 at UNSC meet on Friday: Akbaruddin to WION

Pakistan Fails To 'Internationalise' Kashmir Issue. The Most It Can Achieve Was A Closed-Door UNSC Meeting.

WION Gravitas: What is a closed-door UNSC meeting?

Restrictions are being eased in Jammu & Kashmir 10 days after Article 370 abrogation. Watch more to know.

WION Gravitas: Kashmir is slowly, but surely marching towards normalcy

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 19th, 2019

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